9.29.2023

Against the Wind by Amanda Cabot // Review

Lucie's Review: 

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

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

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

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


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

9.28.2023

Redeeming the Cowboy by Lisa Jordan // Review

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

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

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

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


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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3ZkrIL3

   * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.27.2023

The Blind // Movie Review and Giveaway


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

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




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





My Review:

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

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

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

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

 #TheBlindMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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

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




Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card 

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


a Rafflecopter giveaway

9.26.2023

Restoring Their Family by Allie Pleiter // Review

Lucie's Review: 

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

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

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

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


* As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.25.2023

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

My Review: 
Star of Wonder by Crystal Caudill

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

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

Beauty Bright by Cara Putnam

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

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

Perfect Light by Angela Ruth Strong

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

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

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

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/48v37aA

 * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.22.2023

Art of Writing Webinars 2023 // Just Read Takeover Blitz

Art of Writing JustRead Takeover Blitz

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

You are Invited

The Art of Writing 

Thursday evenings, 7 p.m. CT 

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

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

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

Kelsey Bowen Jamie Lapeyrolerie Rachel McMillan

Christian fiction is alive and well and this will be a great opportunity to hear more. Join a panel of publishing experts as they dispel myths surrounding this genre. This session will encourage you to replace unsettling rumors with exciting truths and be reminded of the unique and powerful place that Christian storytelling has in our world. 
 
Session Two: How Great Books Can Improve Your Novel and Your Life 
Thursday, October 26, 7 p.m. central 
Claude Atcho, Jamie Lapeyrolerie

Claude Atcho Jamie Lapeyrolerie

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

Session Three: Publishing Doesn’t Have to Terrify You! 
Thursday, November 2, 7 p.m. central 
Stephanie Broene, Tamela Hancock Murray, Barb Roose, Laura Wheeler

Stephanie Broene Tamela Hancock Murray Barb Roose Laura Wheeler

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

Session Four: Going Deep with Award-Winning Authors 
Thursday, November 9, 7 p.m. central 
Patricia Raybon, Steven James, Becky Wade

Patricia Raybon Steven James Becky Wade

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

Added Bonus

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

Learn More about The Art of Writing 2023 Webinar Series


Register

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

Chris Fabry Janette Oke Davis Bunn

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

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


Tour Giveaway

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

Art of Writing JustRead Takeover Blitz Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 20, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 27, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

9.21.2023

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

Shadowcast JustRead Blog Tour

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

About the Book

Shadowcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And that is why I love writing them.


About the Author

Crystal D. Grant

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

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

Tour Giveaway

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

Shadowcast JustRead Tours giveaway

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

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

9.20.2023

Journey to Bethlehem // Official Trailer


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

About JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM

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

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

#JourneyToBethlehemMIN



9.19.2023

A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A light-hearted modern day fairy tale just in time for Christmas. 

Adelaide Smith has been working her way through law school, trying to stay focused, when she receives a letter with outlandish claims linking her to royalty. To her amazement the claims appear to be true, as she reunites with long lost family and get's swept into the family mysteries and drama. 

A royal whirlwind of romance and intrigue, with great characters and an engaging plot. I liked that Adelaide was strong in her faith, and stood up for herself in a strange country. 

This was an enjoyable Christmas read, heartwarming and great for fans of royal romance with strong themes of faith. 


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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/48ohAoH

 * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.18.2023

Beyond the Lavender Fields by Arlem Hawks // Review

My Review: 

A gripping romance set during the French Revolution. 

A beautifully told story, I loved the nuance and the complexities of the characters, as they question the convictions that they stand for during a tumultuous time. The story is primarily told through the eyes of Gilles, a revolutionary with medical aspirations, while we get snippets from Marie-Caroline in her letters to her cousin. I liked that both of the characters are challenged by their experiences to think more about their beliefs, as they are drawn together despite the events that tear them apart. 

The catchphrase struck me as odd at first, but grew on me over the course of the book. The author does a great job of bringing the time period to life through her characters. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of books written about the French Revolution, but I found myself really enjoying this one. 

Overall, a historically rich romance read that brings you into the conflict of the French Revolution. 

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


* As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.17.2023

Tracking the Tiny Target by Connie Queen // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Bristol Delaney has been lying low and rebuilding her life, when her past catches up to her in a nightmare that she can't wake up from when her drug dealing ex kidnaps her son, Spencer. 

An action packed read with a lot going on, this was a hard one for me to read because of the subject matter and just how sick the bad guy was, like how horrible he was and how he used Bristol's child to hurt her. Chandler is a disciplined professional, with a dependable dog, Tucker, he is very diligent in his work, but I didn't quite buy him and Bristol as a meant to be couple. 

Overall, this was a quick read, but not personally to my taste. I think that others would really enjoy it though, as there is plenty of action and a lot going on through out.  
 
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.



* As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.16.2023

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows by Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller // Celebrate Lit



About the Book


Book: Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows – A Marriage of Convenience Anthology

Authors: Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 26, 2023

From bestselling and award winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn’t her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn’t cover stranded women, but he can’t leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren’t convenient at all.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller

Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones’ plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi’s character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

Serena and Weston both have different reasons for pursuing matrimony, but a marriage of convenience could be the answer to both their prayers. 

An engaging read with likable characters, and great chemistry in this Christmastime marriage of convenience novella that serves as both a sequel and a prequel, that can also be read as a stand alone. I was so happy to see Serena and Weston getting a shot at love in this story. Tate is such a sweet child, and I loved his big heart, and how he glowed under the love from others. Weston is a good man, and he wants to be a good protector and provider, I liked that he realized his mistake and came through for Serena when she needed him to. It was so fun meeting his close knit, and hilariously nosy family, and I can't wait to read more about them in the future!

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams

Beginning with a mix up this was a sweet romance, with an engaging plot and likable main characters.  Minnie is a kind-hearted woman, and I liked how she bonds with Jed's young son, Jamie. Jed is a decent and honorable man, used to lending hand and he is surprised to find his heart opening again. Jamie is especially sweet and I loved how he lit up under Minnie's attention. 

A sweet Christmastime romance, with good interaction and relationship building. Highly enjoyable!

Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend by Misty M. Beller 
A deathbed promise made to a friend binds Two Stones to Heidi in a marriage of convenience. As they travel together, they see how their differences make them stronger and bond over their shared faith. Great interaction, it was fun seeing them getting to know each other, not knowing what they had gotten into with their marriage. Two Stones is a man of noble character, he walks the line between two worlds and in some ways it has made life more difficult for him. 

An engaging romance with strong faith and great characters!

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

About the Authors



Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over forty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.

USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams is devoted to bringing her readers heartwarming love stories about cowboys and the women that tame them.

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

More from Misty

When Friends Join Forces…Magic Happens!

For me, joining with my good friends Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams resulted in Christmas magic!

Ever since I was young, Christmas stories have held a special place in my heart. The charm and warmth they exude, coupled with the enchantment of the holiday season, are a captivating combination I find irresistible. Can you relate?

I’ve also long been a HUGE fan of Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams. I’ve read so many of their books over and over!

Joining them for this Christmas novella collection has been a dream come true for so many reasons. And not only are these three marriage of convenience stories set on the Rocky Mountain frontier (my favorite place!), each of these novellas is an exciting extension of the current series we’re each writing.

Jody’s novella is the finale to her Colorado Cowgirls series. We meet both the hero and heroine of this Christmas story back in book 4. You don’t have to have read Jody’s series to fall in love with them here though!

Lacy’s novella tells the story of a character from a new mail order bride series she has coming soon. This prelude is a fantastic taste that will have you swooning as you eagerly await the rest of the books!

My own contribution features Two Stones, the Coulter family’s best friend from the Brothers of Sapphire Mountain Ranch series. I love having the chance to tell his story, even though he’s not ‘officially’ one of the brothers.

If you’ve read any of these series—or if you just love Christmas books like I do!—you’ll definitely want to read the novellas in Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. It’s our collective holiday gift to you, the readers—intertwining familiar settings and characters with the joy and love that the festive season brings. We hope these tales bring you the same warmth and joy we’ve felt while penning them.

 

Blessings!

Misty

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 6

Alena Mentink, September 6

Texas Book-aholic, September 7

Mary Hake, September 7

By the Book, September 8

She Lives To Read, September 8

Vicky Sluiter, September 9

Melissa’s Bookshelf, September 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 11

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 12

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 13 (Author Interview)

Connie’s History Classroom, September 14

Blossoms and Blessings, September 15

Britt Reads Fiction, September 15

For Him and My Family, September 16

Labor Not in Vain, September 16

Holly’s Book Corner, September 17

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 17

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 18

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, September 18

Giveaway



To celebrate their tour, Misty, Jody, and Lacy are giving away the grand prize 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/28138/christmas-bells-and-wedding-vows-celebration-tour-giveaway

*Post contains Amazon affiliate links.

9.15.2023

Within These Gilded Halls by Abigail Wilson // Review

My Review: 

Trying to outrun a foolish youthful mistake, Phoebe Ratcliff is studying art under the renowned Mrs. Drake, and she is thrilled to be helping in the estate renovations. Suddenly Mrs. Drake is murdered and with her last breath she sends Phoebe on a treasure hunt that tests her friendships and challenges her wits. 

A well written read, this book swept me up into all the intrigue with twist after twist, in this entertaining adventure filled with mystery and romance. I loved how it kept me guessing, with a fast paced plot and wonderful characters. 

There is definitely a lot going on, and not everyone is who they appear to be. Perfect for fans of intrigue, adventure and regency romance. This book checks all the boxes! 

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


 * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.14.2023

A Cowboy for the Summer by Danica Favorite // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A sweet age gap romance, about facing fears, finding faith, and a future. 

Isaac is determined to complete his clinical internship during the summer, but his only option to do that means facing one of his biggest fears. Abigail Shepherd is in the same masters program as Isaac and she runs the Horse camp that they are using for their final project, she had to grow up quickly and has a heart to help others. 

An enjoyable read, Abigail and Isaac grow close through sharing about their lives and I thought it was cool that they shared a common passion for helping others. Abigail and Isaac are both going to school to be counselors so there is a lot more analyzing and talking about feelings. 

 Isaac is really great with a little boy that comes to the ranch, and I liked how Abigail is open about her faith. Overall, it was a enjoyable read with two likable protagonists that you can't help but root for all the way through.

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


 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3EC0oyt

* As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

9.13.2023

JustRead Rendezvous // Takeover Blitz

JustRead Rendezvous Takeover Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for JustRead Rendezvous, hosted, sponsored, and organized by JustRead Publicity Tours!

You are Invited

JustRead Rendezvous 

November 16-17, 2023

Holiday Inn St Louis SW – Route 66

Join fellow readers and authors at the inaugural JustRead Rendezvous to celebrate Christian fiction and sweet reads with food, games, giveaways, and books. This event aims to sweeten reading and storytelling experiences with fellowship and encouragement and is modeled after Christian Fiction Readers Retreat. Friday's activities will include speaker sessions, author panels, small group discussions, and author signings. 

On Thursday evening, JustRead is hosting a Meet and Greet and Watch Party for The Christy Award Winners Gala webcast. The Christy Award honors and promotes excellence in Christian fiction and is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. Additional Rendezvous event sponsors include Baker Publishing Group fiction divisions (Bethany House Publishers and Revell), Kregel Publications, and Ambassador International.

Learn more about the 2023 JustRead Rendezvous


Participating Authors

First 30 registered JustRead Rendezvous authors

Keynote speakers are Jocelyn Green and Pepper Basham, 2022 finalists of The Christy Award. Rounding out our first 30 participating authors are Amanda Cox, Ann Elizabeth Fryer, Ann H. Gabhart, Barbara M. Britton, Danielle Grandinetti, Elly Gilbert, Erica Vetsch, Heather Greer, Janine Rosche, Jenny Rae, Jerusha Agen, Kimberley Woodhouse, Kristi Ann Hunter, Lisa M. James, Lisa Phillips, Lorri Dudley, Megan Besing, Michelle Griep, Nancy Mehl, Peggy Trotter, Rebecca Hemlock, Regina Rudd Merrick, Sarah Hanks, Shaen Layle, Stephenia H. McGee, Suzie Waltner, Tabitha Bouldin, and Tamara Leigh. Additional interested authors will be invited to register as reader registration grows.

Register

Friday's activities (including a book tote, light breakfast, lunch, snacks, and more) are $110 for readers and Thursday evening is an additional $30. Reader registration ends on October 13 (or earlier if event capacity is met). Subscribe to email updates and learn more about each author on the JustRead Rendezvous website. Connect with other attendees and hopefuls to arrange shared experiences or cost-sharing opportunities in the Rendezvous Roomies & Logistics ’23 private Facebook group

Register Now


Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a Rendezvous book tote loaded with books and swag, a signed event booklet, a cozy Route 66 throw, and an "If I can't take my BOOK, I'm not going" keychain!

JustRead Rendezvous Takeover Blitz Giveaway prize including keychain, Route 66 throw, books, swag, event booklet and tote bag

The giveaway begins at midnight September 12, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 19, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Items may vary slightly. Throw and keychain ship immediately. Tote, books, swag, and booklet available at event or to ship in late November. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

JustRead Rendezvous Takeover Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

9.12.2023

Divine Influencer // Pureflix


A movie about discovering your true purpose in life and recognizing that everyone from all walks of life is equal in God’s eyes. 

When an entitled influencer loses everything, she must humbly trust God to understand what the meaning of true influence is. Desperate, she takes a job at a homeless shelter only so she has a place to lay her head and quickly realizes the joy and purpose that comes from serving others.

Divine Influencer is a movie about humility, the power of prayer and trusting God to show us the  direction for our lives.




 Watch Divine Influencer exclusively on Pure Flix starting September 15th!




My Review: 

Olivia is a social media influencer who lives her life centered around what she can post online, but a negative viral moment ends her online career and she must face life in the real world. 

A heartwarming film with likable characters, I liked that many of the characters did what they did to show God's love to others. One of the characters could have had a highly praised career in the food industry but instead chose to use her talents at a local shelter. This was a fun film with heart, and a sweet romance, and a nice redemptive arc. 

A great reminder that social media is not reality. A winsome romance with themes of faith, friendship, and caring for others!

 #DivineInfluencerMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork


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


Divine Influencer is such a timely movie as the world of social media expands at a rapid pace. The  message of this film is a reflection on how easy it is to live for the likes, the shares and the comments instead of living our lives for God or to serve others.






 Giveaway: 3-month subscription to Pure Flix 

(Note: This is limited to US winners only, and only to those who have NOT won a sub scription in the last 6 months.


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