6.25.2024

The Christian Capitalist by Rich Sanders // Review + 2 Giveaways


The Christian Capitalist
explores various scriptural 
references that support twin pillars of Christian belief: 1) working hard to make a productive benefit from talents and materials that God has provided all people; and 2) giving generously to share those benefits with our neighbors in the name of Jesus Christ. Through a discussion of Holy Scripture, it analyzes various passages that relate to these concepts  of productivity and generosity, along with two thousand years of history discussing  the good works of Christians as examples. Ultimately, this book develops a philosophy that is uniquely Christian and capitalist: the Gospel of Hard Work and Generous  Giving! 


“As a small business owner, my husband and I have experienced both  success and challenges. The Christian Capitalist reminded me that going to church  isn’t the only way to worship God. By working hard and giving to others, I share the  blessings God has given to me and my family with others.”  

- Elizabeth Cranston, Esq., Chief Executive Officer, Cana, LLC, Washington, DC. © 2024



Rich Sanders is the founding pastor of Online Home Church in the Epis
copal Diocese of Atlanta, which has met weekly online since the pandemic shutdown in March 2020. He earned his Master’s in Divinity from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in 2015. Rich follows a bi-vocational calling, so he serves in ministry and in business. As the retired President of Southern Health Lawyers, he practiced law for nearly thirty years. He has been named annually to The Best Lawyers in America- Healthcare since 2011, and he is a past president of the Georgia Academy of Healthcare Attorneys. Rich is the founder of the charitable organization St. Michael’s Mission, Inc., which is a ministry organized to assist and serve active duty and veterans of the armed services. He is a retired volunteer chaplain at the Interfaith Airport Chapel at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and served as its President of the Board of Directors from 2017 until 2023.



My Review: The Bible has a lot to say on the topic of money, giving, building wealth, and good stewardship. Money can be the root of all kinds of evil if we let it, but it can also be the means by which God can use us to bless others.

Bi-vocational ministry leader and businessman, Rich Sanders does an excellent job of taking readers through what the Bible says about money, and the place that it should take in the lives of Christians, the place of work and giving as well. I liked that the author uses multiple lengthy passages of Scripture in context throughout to give an accurate picture of what the Bible says on these topics. It was amazing to me how the Bible actually says about how we should handle money as Christians. 

Engaging and well written, the author did great research and and I can see that he is passionate about living what he preaches. The only complaint I have is that the title could mislead some folks away from picking up this very well done, and helpful book that would be great for all Christians, not just the ones who identify as Capitalists!

#ChristianCapitalistMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to GoodWorks Mission, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this  review. Opinions are 100% my own.




Giveaway #1: 1 copy of The Christian Capitalist (Open to US residents only)




Giveaway #2: Additionally, we’re also pooling all giveaway winners across the bloggers into a give away for $500 to the winners’ choice of Christian US-based ministry/organization.(US residents only). To Enter fill out this FORM .

Mike Rowe's Something to Stand For // Review + Giveaway


If you love true stories, you’ll love this collection of real-life tales of American Heroes, all narrated by Mike Rowe!

Join America’s favorite storyteller on an epic journey to the heart of Washington DC. Drawing from his blockbuster podcast “The Way I Heard It,” this cinematic tour de force will take viewers to the frontlines of the American Revolution,  World War II, the Civil Rights movement, and more.








Review:

Sit back and enjoy some good old fashioned storytelling brought to life along with Mike Rowe, as he recounts the exploits and pivotal moments in the lives of some of America's greatest known and not as widely known heroes.

Well presented and engaging, with high quality re-enactments. It was fun trying to guess who he was talking about before it was immediately clear. A thoroughly enjoyable experience, great for families with older children, I liked the themes of hard work, courage, and gumption that are hallmarks of American history and legend.

A wonderful film to share with fans of American history, or even someone not familiar as it is a real challenge to not be drawn in by Mr. Rowe's engaging, and straightforward storytelling style. A well done, inspiring piece that espouses strong values, courage, and hard work.

Parents should take into consideration some mild language, war imagery, and a story describing cattle castration.

 #SomethingToStandForMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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




Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard.

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



a Rafflecopter giveaway

6.24.2024

Gentleman Jim by Mimi Matthews // Review

My Review: 

A forbidden childhood romance forbidden because of differences in class, Margaret Honeywell has never forgotten Nicholas Seaton. Now at the age of twenty-six, and almost two years past her father's death she must make a match to secure her inheritance. But the marriage must be one approved by her father's solicitor, a man who has it in mind to marry Maggie himself. 

John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare is the heir apparent to his grandfather's title, but questions surrounding his heritage and legitimacy haunt his every move. Maggie falls quickly for the man who reminds her so of her dear Nicholas, but can her second chance at love even stand a chance against the questions surrounding St. Clare's birth, and the conditions of her inheritance? 

An engaging regency era read, with a riveting plot and likable protagonists that you can't help but root for. Maggie is in a tough predicament, but I liked that she had the support of her friends like Jane and her brother George. 

My first encounter with a Mimi Matthew's book, but it will surely not be the last! Well, developed characters, written in a way that brings to life the setting and time period perfectly, with attention to dialogue and manners. Highly enjoyable read!

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

6.18.2024

Coal Black Lies by Cindy K. Sproles // JustRead + Giveaway

Coal Black Lies JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Coal Black Lies by Cindy K. Sproles, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Coal Black Lies

Title: Coal Black Lies
Author:
Cindy K. Sproles
Publisher:
Kregel Publications
Release Date:
June 18, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Believing the bitter lies you tell yourself leaves little room for the sweetness of truth 

Coal miner Joshua Morgan managed to do the impossible--he broke away from the stranglehold of the iron-fisted Barton family and the Company Store, to whom all the miners in the Appalachian Mountains are indebted. But it cost him the life of his young daughter, who was run down by a posse led by Thomas Barton while coming to collect Joshua's payment to the store. 

Five years later, a sweet but slow-witted young girl lands on his doorstep, and Joshua's desire to protect her from the clutches of the Bartons increases his thirst for vengeance. Joshua sets out to discover where the girl came from in order to take down the Barton family once and for all. 

His journey leads him to the truth about the day his daughter died, a reality he finds hard to accept. But when confronted by Thomas Barton himself, Joshua is forced to rethink the dark lies brewing in his heart. If he broke away, could Thomas have also? Despite his misgivings, can Joshua join forces with a man he once despised to free the miners from the tyrannical Barton family and forge a future of peace for both the young girl and himself?

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

My Review:

Joshua Morgan broke free of the coal and the stranglehold of the company store, but finding a sweet child wandering his property, stirs up his quest for vengeance and unearths a motherload of secrets. 

A gripping and gritty read set in the mountains of Appalachia, Joshua and his wife Raney have fought for everything they have to make their own way and stay clear of the murdering Bartons who took everything precious from them. An engaging mountain tale, with so many winding twists, and strong themes of faith, justice, and forgiveness. 

Joshua is fortunate to have faithful friends, in Clive, Manny, and Cleda May. I admired Raney for her steadfastness, and her heart for Aughtie. Aughtie is the sweetest child. Prepare to have your heart stolen!

Overall, this book will have your head spinning with all of the plot twists and big reveals, I loved how this book had its suspenseful moments, balanced with more tender moments, and strong faith themes. Definitely worth the read!

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

Also Available

 


About the Author

Cindy Sproles

Cindy K. Sproles is the author of devotions published in newspapers across the country and a teacher at Christian writers conferences. She spent her formative years showing off her beloved Appalachian Mountains to others, and she and her family still live in the mountains of East Tennessee.

Connect with Cindy at cindysproles.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a print copy of Coal Black Lies plus book-related swag!

Coal Black Lies JustRead Tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 17, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 24, 2024. 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

6.14.2024

Jesus : A Deaf Missions Film // Movie Review and Giveaway!


Be among the first to experience the first full-length feature  

film about Jesus entirely in ASL!


God’s story is unstoppable when it is in the heart language of a people group. JESUS: a Deaf Missions film, uses Deaf actors to bring the story of Jesus to life from a Deaf perspective for a Deaf audience.


68 out of 70 million deaf people are waiting to encounter Jesus. We are ready to make Him seen ... would you join us? 





Buy tickets today to see JESUS: a Deaf Missions film in theaters starting June 20th!

Buy Tickets Here




My Review: 

A large-scale undertaking with resoundingly powerful results. For the first time ever see a Jesus film made by the deaf for the deaf, entirely in ASL with a whole cast of deaf actors to bring this magnificent story to the big screen in a way never before seen!

I loved how everything about this film was oriented towards the deaf, with no audible dialogue, though hearing audiences will hear drama enhancing music, nature sounds, as well as the signing. I grew up in a church that had a very large deaf ministry that my family was a part of, and it was so amazing to see this film, and how much care was put into making it. I also am excited to share this film with my friend who works as an ASL interpreter, as I know she will want to share this with some of her clients and the people she works with!

A powerful film about the greatest story ever told--because it's true! A talented cast give life to this film, that runs 2hrs and 20 mins in length. It does a good job of showing the afflictions faced by those who Jesus healed, their pain and their rejoicing. The film doesn't shy away from the more graphic scenes, so take that into consideration when deciding if this is something your children should see. 

A well-done film that will surely be a powerful tool in spreading the gospel for years to come!

#JESUSaDeafMissionsFilmMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork


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


Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard 

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


a Rafflecopter giveaway

6.13.2024

Texas Ranch Cold Case by Virginia Vaughan // Review

Lucie's Review: 

While searching for answers to her mother's death, Ally Fulton finds herself in a killer's crosshairs. Tucker Harmon offers his protection, as he seeks to help her find answers and clear his family's name. 

A fast paced read, with a lot going on, great character development and interaction. Definitely a hard to put down, twisting plot, with plenty of action, and big reveals along the way. I liked the themes of redemption.

A quick read with likable characters, and a mystery riddled plot, with plenty to unravel. Action-packed with lots of suspense. A great standalone, but also a great conclusion to the series that brings all the siblings together. 

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

6.12.2024

Dolphins in Danger by Bill Myers // Review

My Review: 

The 5th in this fun filled family series, finds the Mulligans once again coming to the aid of animals in need, as Lisa rescues dolphins, Nick learns how to fly a plane, Julie learns about following rules, and Jenelle stands up for what is right. 

A laugh-out-loud hilarious read, with a full cast of characters and a mischievous monkey, name Winona. A truly engaging read that can be enjoyed by all ages, great for young readers gaining confidence with chapter books, or as a read aloud for the whole family

A highly enjoyable book that I read in one sitting, I appreciated the solid themes of faith, and lessons of following rules and trusting God. Winona is a hoot! I look forward to following this family on more adventures in the future!

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

6.11.2024

What We Hide by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Separated for years, Hez and Savannah are pulled back together when Savannah falls under suspicion for murder. Together they untangle a web of secrets, and lies, in this second chance romantic suspense. 

An thrilling suspense that brings a separated couple back together as they fight for their lives and answers. There is a lot going on, but it also has a heavy ominousness to it, with parts told from the bad guy's POV.

I liked that Hez's cousin shares his faith with him, and encourages him to make positive choices. I liked how Savannah and Hez started to rekindle their relationship, and worked together to sort everything else. 

Overall, a suspenseful read with a lot going on. I appreciated the complex relationship aspects that Hez and Savannah had going into things, and how it ramped up some of the tension. Great for fans of heavier suspense reads. 


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

6.10.2024

To Spark a Match by Jen Turano // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Adelaide Duveen is swept into a world  of intrigue and suspense after stumbling upon a mysterious meeting during a society party. After five failed seasons, Adelaide believes that she is well on her way to being a spinster, but could a chance encounter change everything?

A fun read with a fantastic heroine, in a fast paced, banter-filled adventure. Adelaide has a quick mind, and is willing to do what it takes to help Gideon's mission succeed. Gideon is attracted to Adelaide, and I liked that he was trying to protect her from the things in his life that could be a danger. Adelaide has a wonderful set of friends, and I loved seeing familiar faces along the way.

Overall, an engaging read with an excellent plot, many laugh out loud moments, and over the top characters. Highly entertaining in the best way!


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

6.08.2024

JustRead Rendezvous 2024

RDV '24 JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for JustRead Rendezvous 2024, hosted, sponsored, and organized by JustRead Publicity Tours!

You are Invited

JustRead Rendezvous
November 15, 2024

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel & Conference Center Chicago-Downers Grove

Join fellow readers and authors at the JustRead Rendezvous to celebrate Christian fiction and sweet reads. This event, modeled after the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat, aims to sweeten reading and storytelling experiences with fellowship and encouragement. Activities will include corporate worship, speaker sessions, author panels, small group discussions, games, giveaways, a pop-up book shop, and author signings. 

Baker Publishing Group fiction imprints (Bethany House and Revell), Enclave Publishing, and Kregel Publications have joined JustRead Publicity Tours as event sponsors.

Learn more about the 2024 JustRead Rendezvous


Participating Authors

JustRead Rendezvous 2024 first 27 participating authors

first row: Amanda Barratt, Amanda Cox, Amanda Dykes, Angela Ruth Strong, Becky Wade, Elizabeth Goddard, Elizabeth Musser, Emily Conrad, Gabrielle Meyer. second row: Janilise Lloyd, Kate Breslin, Katie Powner, Kimberley Woodhouse, Kristi Ann Hunter, Laura Frantz, Linda MacKillop, Lisa Phillips, Lynn Austin. third row: Mesu Andrews, Nancy Mehl, Nicole Deese, Robin W. Pearson, Ronie Kendig, Sara Brunsvold, Sara Davison, Sara Ella, Sara Watterson

Keynote speakers include Amanda Dykes, Becky Wade, and Ronie Kendig. Kimberley Woodhouse and Lisa Phillips will lead worship. More authors will be added to the event as reader registration increases!  

Check out recent releases by participating authors in the JustRead Amazon Storefront.


Register

The registration fee (including a book tote, lunch, afternoon snack, and more) is $124 for readers. We’re nearing the reader registration mark to add more best-selling, debut, and indie authors to the 2024 event. Tell your friends and register today to pave the way by August 1! 

Subscribe to email updates and learn more about each author on the JustRead Rendezvous website. Connect with other attendees and hopefuls in the Rendezvous Roomies & Logistics ’24 private Facebook group to arrange shared experiences or cost-sharing opportunities

Register Now

P.S. Join us on Thursday at the same location for the Art of Writing conference and The Christy Award Winners Gala. The Christy Award honors and promotes excellence in Christian fiction and is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. Visit christyawards.com for more information and registration.

Giveaway

(1) winner will receive one paid registration to JustRead Rendezvous 2024 courtesy of '23 Rendezvous author Tamara Leigh
(1) winner will receive a canvas tote bag, an A6 journal notebook with a ballpoint pen, a 12 oz enamel mug, a scented candle, and a reading blanket
(5) winners will receive a $10 egift card (Baker Book House, Christianbook, or Amazon)

JustRead Rendezvous 2024 Blog Tour Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 4, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 11, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for physical prizes. 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

6.07.2024

Starstruck by Amy Clipston // Review

My Review:

Heather Gordon's small-town life is turned upside down when she falls for a rockstar. 

A sweet contemporary romance, that makes for a quick read. Great for someone looking for a light-reading pick-me-up. I liked that Heather is close to her family, and that they are supportive of her goals and everything else. Alex Kirwan is a world-famous heartthrob, who longs for a simpler life, possibly settling down from the hubbub of being famous. 

A sweet read about finding love when you aren't looking, with nice characters, and a rather straightforward plot that does tend to go where expected. A little too predictable and fluffy for my taste, but if you like Hallmark movies chances are you would like this sweet romance. 

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

6.06.2024

The Art of Love and Lies by Rebecca Anderson // Review

My Review: 

Roseanna Hawkins is a gifted artist, spending her time recreating famous pieces to grace the parlors of the upper classes, but when she finds that her works are tied to an art heist she partners with a police man to brings the real thief to justice. 

An engaging and thrilling clean romance, with likable characters and plot. I loved how Martin encouraged her in her art, and gave Roseanna a chance to prove herself, and he never gave up on her. The interaction between them is well done, and I liked how Roseanna sees past Martin's past to the man that he has become despite all of it. Great dialogue, engaging, with a fantastic conclusion!
 
A highly enjoyable read, with a sweet, clean romance, with a touch of suspense!


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

6.05.2024

Hidden in the Night by Elizabeth Goddard // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A search for a long long manuscript brings Ivy Elliot back to Alaska, and face to face with old love interest Nolan Long. Together they must brave the elements, and go toe-to-toe with human traffickers, in this riveting adventure. 

A great addition to the series, I was so pleased to see Nolan getting his own story after seeing him in the previous book about his sister. They had good interaction, though the beginning felt a little backstory heavy. There was a lot going on in the story, and I liked that Nolan and Ivy had to work together despite their failed connection in the past. 

It was a fun read, with great characters that I could cheer for throughout, with a high stakes chase, blended with a dangerous treasure hunt. 

An edge of your seat read, against a glorious backdrop, with heartpounding suspense, and strong themes of faith. 


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

6.04.2024

Love Overboard by Shannon Sue Dunlap // Celebrate Lit

 


About the Book

 


Book: Love Overboard: A Novel

Author: Shannon Sue Dunlap

Genre:Christian Romcom

Release date: May 21, 2024

When four quirky friends retire on a never-ending round of cruises, their attire consists of more than floral shirts and gaudy skirts. Armed with walkie-talkies and battle plans, these relationship experts—who’ve dubbed themselves the “Shippers”—target hostess Lacey Anderson and director Jonathan King in their romantic schemes. However, the young couple is determined not to play along, having previously sailed the tumultuous seas of love only to witness their relationship crash and burn.

Boss matchmaker Emily Windsor has orchestrated multiple romantic successes, and these two upstarts certainly won’t get the best of her. The chemistry between Lacey and Jonathan is obvious, but the couple rebuffs every outlandish plot and “coincidental” meeting, forcing the Shippers to chart a new course to true love—all while inadvertently thwarting drug smugglers threatening to ruin their floating home.

Can they untangle the mess of romance and intrigue before it’s too late, or will their journey end in heartbreak and disaster? Shannon Sue Dunlap’s enthralling new series unfolds a tale where love, laughter, and danger converge in an entertaining maritime adventure.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: 

A lighthearted rom-com about faith and friendship, full of over the top situations and characters! 

Set on a cruise ship, four retiree friends are on a mission to help others find love, but their targets are less than willing. It was a fun read, with an intriguing plot, romance, and great characters. Clean banter, with a touch of mystery, with strong themes of faith. I liked the twists along the way, but wished that I had gotten to know some of the other (besides Emily) "Shippers" a little better in this book, and hope that I get to know them better in future books. 

Overall, a fun-filled read with an engaging plot, humorous situations. I'm excited to read more in the series and follow more of their escapades!

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

About the Author



Shannon Sue Dunlap lives in hot and humid Houston, Texas where she writes love stories with a laugh-out-loud center. She enjoys traveling around the world, singing tunes from classic musicals, and drinking Dr. Pepper. Shannon is a die-hard fan of happy endings and believes God has designed one for each of us.

 

 

 

More from Shannon

My attention zeroed in on the tv screen where a darling elderly woman happily danced with a man in a captain’s uniform. The feature report told how she’d forsaken the nursing home and chosen to live her retirement on a cruise ship instead. Afterward, the wheels in my brain started to churn. What if there wasn’t just one woman, but a whole group? And what if they amused themselves by matchmaking the young people around them? Thus, the idea for Love Overboard started to form.

I related to my wandering heroines. Traveling is “in my blood.” I was three months old when my parents hit the road. (Or so they tell me. I really don’t remember.) It was the 70s and Dad was a traveling preacher called an evangelist. He and mom started out with their newborn baby in a Toronado Oldsmobile. And even after we made a permanent home in Virginia, they kept traveling.

No wonder my feet itch.

In those many journeys, of course there were books. Daydreams of detectives and western heroes and ladies in fancy dresses kept me company in the backseat. I’d finish the stack of novels I brought with me, and my parents would stop at whatever town we were near and look up a Christian bookstore to restock my supply.

Now, it tickles my fancy to think my stories might be keeping someone else company in their plane seat or deck chair. As I write, of course, I keep traveling. I’ve taught school in Botswana, driven on the left side of a rain-slicked Scottish road, twirled in front of Mr. Darcy’s Pemberly (the Colin Firth version), visited Prince Edward Island for the 100th anniversary of Anne of Green Gables, and been serenaded by an opera singer on a European river cruise. (I don’t mean in the audience. He took me from my seat, wrapped his arms around me, and let the crescendos fly.) Learning about the history of places and trying crazy new dishes makes life more interesting. The most unique thing I remember eating is Mopani worm in Zambia. (It tasted like crunchy dirt.)

As Love Overboard releases, I’d like to give a big shoutout to that daring little old lady that lent me inspiration. Perhaps I’ll follow her example when I reach my 80s. No matter how long is ordained for my time on this planet, I hope books and traveling will always play a part in my story.

Blogs Stops

Pause for Tales, May 24

Wishful Endings, May 24

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 25

Texas Book-aholic, May 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 27

Stories By Gina, May 28 (Author Interview)

Life on Chickadee Lane, May 28

The Sacred Line, May 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 31

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 1

For Him and My Family, June 2

The Lofty Pages, June 3

Labor Not in Vain, June 4

Holly’s Book Corner, June 5

She Lives To Read, June 6

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Shannon Sue 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/2b9d5/love-overboard-celebration-tour

6.03.2024

Set in Stone by Kimberly Woodhouse // Review

Lucie's Review: 
Following in her father's footsteps, Martha Jankowski dreams of making an impact in the paleontological world and her dig seems more than promising. Raised among high society, her mother has hopes for her in another direction. 

Jacob Duncan came from humble beginnings, but shares Martha's dream of unearthing a whole dinosaur skeleton. Can they work together despite the seeds of distrust sown between them? 

An engaging race between two competing teams for the first complete skeleton brings two young hearts from different backgrounds together. I liked how Jacob is an honest man of integrity, and how he is open about his faith, sharing it with Martha. A wonderful addition to the series, but also a stellar stand alone. 

Well written and researched, it does a great job of bringing the bone war to life, with a touch of chilling suspense, and an opposites attract romance. 

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

6.02.2024

Chromatic by Ashley Bustamante // Celebrate Lit



About the Book


Book: Chromatic

Author: Ashley Bustamante

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release Date: May 7, 2024

Light is Found in Every Hue

Magus is dying from the inside out, and only the destruction of the barrier can save it. Even color magic can’t defend against earthquakes, strange weather patterns, and erratic wildlife behavior.

After discovering hundreds of captive Yellow magic-users, Ava and Elm fight to set them free. However, new dangers and unexpected enemies await at every turn, forcing them to face their greatest challenges yet. The calamities inside the barrier slowly manifest in the outside world as well, pulling citizens from both sides of the battle into the fray. In this new war, they may not all make it out alive.

Elm and Ava must confront the growing darkness and create a future in a world that has been all but stripped of hope. Can Magus be restored, or is it already too late?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

Can Ava, Elm, and their friends finish what they started? In a land where colors represent magic, and some have been suppressed for far too long, can they win the fight for a brighter future?

Picking up right where the previous book left off, Ava and Elm, are pioneering a new world that involves partnering powers and the use of the forbidden yellow. Ava and her friends must face foes old and new, uncovering even deeper secrets, and working together to build new relationships and strengthen old bonds. 

Spellbinding world building, and excellent character development, in this action-packed fantasy, make for a gripping adventure. Strong themes of fighting for what's right, second chances, forgiveness. A satisfying conclusion, filled with suspense, and strong character arcs. Highly recommend!

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

About the Author



Ashley Bustamante has created stories from the moment she could scribble and staple sheets of paper together. She simply cannot recall a time when writing was not a force in her life. When not running through lines of dialogue in her mind, she enjoys taking photographs and spending time with her husband, three children, and any furry, feathered, or scaly creature she can find. She currently works at Arizona State University.

 

 

 

More from Ashley

Sitting down to write the final installment of the Color Theory series was an emotional experience. I wanted to do well by my readers and do well by God. And of course, I wanted to stay true to the story I set out to write in the beginning.

One of the difficult things about writing this book is that I knew the characters were going to have to face higher stakes and deeper pain than ever before. Given the situation they are in, it had to be that way. But, in spite of what Ava, Elm, and crew will face in Chromatic, this is ultimately a story of hope and triumph.

As I’ve watched the struggles of the world right now and seen what so many readers are going through, I knew I wanted to tell a tale of perseverance. No matter how bleak our circumstances may be, we can still find the light.

I hope you enjoy Chromatic!

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 23

Artistic Nobody, May 24 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, May 24

Texas Book-aholic, May 25

Through the Fire Blogs, May 26 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 27

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 28

Blossoms and Blessings, May 29 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 30

Blogging With Carol, May 31

Beauty in the Binding, June 1 (Author Interview)

Min Reads and Reviews, June 1

Labor Not in Vain, June 2

Guild Master, June 3 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, June 4 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Vicky Sluiter, June 5 (Author Interview)

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Ashley is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a hardcover 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/2b9d4/chromatic-celebration-tour-giveaway