Death Valley Double Cross by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

 

About the Book

 

Book: Death Valley Double Cross

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Suspense

Release date: February 22, 2022

A killer seeking revenge

will stop at nothing to get it…

Pilar Jefferson is shocked to learn that her supposedly deceased father is alive and has been in prison—and now his ruthless former partner is after her. Fleeing on her wedding day was the best way to protect her loved ones. But now with her mother held for ransom and her ex-fiancé, Austin Duke, stumbling back into her life, can she keep everyone safe—and escape an assassin?

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

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Pilar is shocked to find the ex-fiance that she left at the altar, on her doorstep.

A fast paced read, with an engaging plot, and a mystery to be unraveled. I liked how this book had Pilar and Austin working together to catch the killer, as well as bringing back a few familiar faces. There was a lot going on in this book, and I liked how the twisting plot kept me guessing. 

Austin doesn't know what to think right away when he sees Pilar, but I like that he wants to stay and help keep her safe, even if it takes him some time to sort out out to feel about it all. I liked how he cares for his dogs, and has a passion for helping older dogs find homes. 

Overall, an action-packed read with a great plot and characters that I could root for, as well as many familiar faces. An excellent addition to a fantastic series, but can definitely be read as a stand alone. A fast paced read that you won't want to put down!

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 a Holt Medallion winner. She is the Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance 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.)

 

More from Dana

I remember standing on the edge of the lookout and gazing into the wonder that is Artist’s Palette in Death Valley. Artist’s Drive, which takes you to this breathtaking view, rises above Badwater Basin (the lowest spot in North America) and then meanders along twisting canyons and hills until it brings you to this popular tourist stop. The premier view is a place called Artist’s palette. It’s a sprawling pocket of color, hues of rose, ochre, green and gold tucked in the rippling landscape and teased to life by the desert sun. Isn’t that just like God? To lead us to surprises and wonders that await us in a sometimes hostile world? Every day we spent in Death Valley held a surprise, from the rocks that move mysteriously across the sands to the towering twists and turns of 20 Mule Team Canyon. There are only two things to do with a wonderous place like that…enjoy the divine bounty, and write a novel set there so others can come along!

I hope you will enjoy this third installment in the Desert Justice series. The first is Beckett’s story and then we had quiet cowboy Levi’s adventure. Now it’s brash pilot Austin’s turn. Will he get his happy ending after being dumped at the altar and wrecking his shoulder in an accident? Turn those pages and come with me to Death Valley to find out!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 29

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, March 29

Daysong Reflections, March 30

Texas Book-aholic, March 30

Lighthouse academy, March 31

Inklings and notions, March 31

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 1

Betti Mace, April 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 2

Pause for Tales, April 2

For Him and My Family, April 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 3 (Author Interview)

deb's Book Review, April 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 6

Life, Love, Writing, April 6

Bigreadersite, April 7

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting, April 7

Bizwings Blog, April 8

For the Love of Literature, April 8

Blogging With Carol, April 9

HookMeInABook, April 9

Simple Harvest Reads, April 10 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Paula's Persuasion, April 10

Blossoms and Blessings, April 11

Sodbuster Living, April 11

Labor Not in Vain, April 12

Through the fire blogs, April 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize package of the first three books in the series (Paperback for U.S. Only) and 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/1c112/death-valley-double-cross-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Mulligan // Movie Review and Giveaway

Based on the popular book by Wally Armstrong and Ken Blanchard, THE MULLIGAN is an inspiring reminder that second chances are only one step away. From the producer of BOBBY JONES: STROKE OF GENIUS, and the director-producer team behind THE ULTIMATE GIFT comes THE MULLIGAN, sporting an all-star cast that includes Eric Close (NASHVILLE, AMERICAN SNIPER) as Paul, Pat Boone as the Old Pro, and PGA golfer Tom Lehman and broadcasting legend Jim Nantz as themselves. See it in theaters for two nights only on April 18 & 19.

Whether it’s a second shot during a friendly round, rediscovering lost priorities, or the opportunity to make something good of a situation gone bad, there are times we all could use a mulligan. Website: https://themulliganmovie.com/

Buy tickets to see The Mulligan in theaters April 18th & 19th, 2022: https://themulliganmovie.com/theaters 

Review:

A parable about second chances, based on the book by Wally Armstrong and Ken Blanchard. 

Paul McAllister is a high powered businessman, too busy for his family, and always chasing the next big deal. Hoping to improve his gold game he meets with a man known as the Old Pro who teaches him the secret of The Mulligan. 

The movie is slower to start, but as the movie picked up it was fun to learn more about the game of golf, and see pieces all come together. I really liked that they didn't shy away from a strong faith-based message of hope. The Old Pro, played by Pat Boone, is such a fun character, with his plaid golfing pants, and patient way of giving out sage advice. The movie was well done, and I thought that it did a good job of showing the importance of family, honesty, and faith. 

Overall, I was a little unsure about this movie in the beginning as I am in no shape or form a golfer or golf enthusiast, but as the story progressed and the foundation laid at the beginning began to pay off I found myself genuinely enjoying it. By the end it had won me over. A solid movie, well acted, great plot, and a powerful message of faith, integrity and family!

#TheMulliganMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Reelworks Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. 

Giveaway: Digital copy of The Mulligan novel 

About the book, The Mulligan: THE MULLIGAN is based on the beloved book by former PGA  touring pro Wally Armstrong and bestselling author and business executive Ken Blanchard.  This inspiring story about relationships, forgiveness, and priorities is a shot of grace. Golf's  gracious do-over, a mulligan is the beginning of Paul McAllister’s second chance. Guided by  

the wisdom and advice of the Old Pro, Paul learns about priorities, self-confidence, and  playing a good game both on and off the course. The Mulligan is a parable of second  chances.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sea Glass Cottage by Irene Hannon // Review

Lucie's Review:

Jack Colby is Christi Reece's only hope, so she drives up to Hope Harbor to ask for his help. Though his reception of her is cold, events keep coming up that prevent her from leaving, and she finds herself falling in love with the small coastal community.

Christi has changed a lot since she and Jack were last together. I loved her heart for helping others and how time has matured her, Hope Harbor welcomes her with open arms and I liked how she befriends Beth and supports her through all that she is going through. I liked how Steve keeps reaching out to Beth and his friendship with little Noah. 

This is a well written read, with a wonderful cast of characters, plenty of heart, second chances, faith,  and forgiveness. I loved returning again to the small town community, and seeing some familiar faces along the way. I thought that the character development was well done, with good growth arcs, and a strong sense of community and family. A heartwarming read full of faith and second chances. 

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

Much Ado About a Latte by Kathleen Fuller // Review

My Review:

Anita and Tanner both have dreams of owning and operating their own businesses after working together for years at the Sunshine Diner. Anita has loved Tanner since Middle School, she has always felt pressure from her family to do more with her life than be a waitress. While Tanner grew up poor and has always worked hard to help his family. Will their plans bring them together or pull them further apart?

A enjoyable return to Maple Falls, I loved seeing familiar faces like Irma, Hayden, Riley, and Harper. I liked Anita and Tanner from the start, and finding them both to be very relatable from the start. I loved Tanner's love for his family, and how he wants to help ease his hardworking mom's burdens. Anita is passionate about what she does, but struggles with feeling like she doesn't measure up to her high achieving family she feels like she is constantly trying to prove that she can do things on her own. I liked the relationship between Anita and Tanner, and how it tied back to when they were younger, as well as how they had grown in the present day. 

Overall, this was a fun quick read with a lovely setting and enjoyable characters. I loved getting to know more of the townspeople. There is some drinking to excess, but I think that it was handled well and not shown in a positive way. I'll definitely be reading the next book when it comes out!

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

The Merchant and the Rogue by Sarah M. Eden // Review

My Review:

Another delightful installment in the Dread Penny Society. 

Brogan Donnelly is asked to leave the Dread Penny Society in order to secure his cover in a covert operation to uncover dishonest dealings at a Russian print shop. Vera Sorokina works hard for her father, finding enjoyment in the Penny Dreadfuls that they sell at their shop. She is intrigued by their personable new employee who has a heart for the children working at the factories. 

A thoroughly entertaining read, filled with adventure, mystery, and romance. As always I enjoyed the "bonus" stories given in the form of Penny Dreadfuls. I loved that Brogan has a big heart for others, and that he and his sister are so close and have a good relationship. Brogan is a kind man, creative, and outgoing. I loved how he and Vera got to know each other while working together. 

Overall, an highly enjoyable read, full of mystery with a sweet romance, and wonderful recurring characters. A must read for fans of the series!

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

Love's Fortress by Jennifer Uhlarik // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Love’s Fortress

Author: Jennifer Uhlarik

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical fiction / Romance

Release date: March, 2022

A Love Story from the Past Brings Closure to Dani’s Fractured Family

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

When Dani Sango’s art forger father passes away, Dani inherits his home. Among his effects is a book of Native American drawings, which leads her to seek the help of museum curator Brad Osgood to decipher the ledger art. Why would her father have this book? Is it just another forgery?

Brad Osgood’s four-year-old niece, Brynn, needs a safe home, and Brad longs to provide it. The last thing he needs is more drama, especially from a forger’s daughter. But when the two meet “accidentally” at St. Augustine’s 350-year-old Spanish fort, Castillo de San Marcos, he can’t refuse the intriguing woman.

Broken Bow is among seventy-three Plains Indians transported to Florida in 1875 for incarceration at ancient Fort Marion. Sally Jo Harris and Luke Worthing dream of serving God on a foreign mission field, but when the Indians arrive in St. Augustine, God changes their plans. Then when friendship develops between Sally Jo and Broken Bow and false accusations fly, it could cost them their lives.

Can Dani discover how Broken Bow and Sally Jo’s story ends and how it impacted her father’s life?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Pictures from the past may be the key to uncover decades of family secrets in the present. 

Dani Sango has lived under the shadow of her father's reputation her whole life, and her journey to understand her father leads her to compelling discoveries. A present day mystery of sorts with roots in the past, I loved uncovering the secrets with Dani and Brad as they got to know each other through their struggles and their search. Belle is a sweet child, and I liked how Brad works hard to make sure that she feels safe in her new home. I also enjoyed Sally Jo and Luke's story set in 1875, their love for each other and dreams of sharing Christ with others. 

 There is a lot going on in this book and it took a while for me to start putting the pieces together, but it grew on me a lot as it built into a powerful and poignant conclusion. It was fun to learn the history of Native American ledger art, and see all the pieces of the story come together. 

Overall, this was a well written book that blends the present day with the past in a beautiful and meaningful way, rich in history, with strong faith, and admirable characters that I could cheer for all the way through. Well worth the read.

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

About the Author

Jennifer Uhlarik discovered the western genre as a preteen, when she swiped the only “horse” book she found on her older brother’s bookshelf. A new love was born. Across the next ten years, she devoured Louis L’Amour westerns and fell in love with the genre. In college at the University of Tampa, she began penning her own story of the Old West. Armed with a BA in writing, she has won five writing competitions and was a finalist in two others. In addition to writing, she has held jobs as a private business owner, a schoolteacher, a marketing director, and her favorite—a full-time homemaker. Jennifer is active in American Christian Fiction Writers and is a lifetime member of the Florida Writers Association. She lives near Tampa, Florida, with her husband, teenage son, and four fur children.

 

More from Jennifer

Florida has been my home since I was ten, and I’ve visited the city of St. Augustine several times in my many years here. There, I stumbled across the fact that the Castillo de San Marcos, the town’s 350-year-old Spanish fort, was home to several groups of Native Americans in the 1800s. Ever since learning this fact, I’ve considered writing a story about the three-year period from 1875-1878 when seventy-three Plains Indians from various tribes called the fort (known then as Fort Marion) their home. However, since I’m mainly a western and western romance author, all of my story settings to date have been west of the Mississippi—not in Florida. So this interesting historical factoid remained dormant in my imagination for years, waiting for the right opportunity.

 

That opportunity came last year when I was asked to submit an idea for Barbour’s dual-timeline Doors to the Past series. These stories must be set in or around a major landmark, the plot must focus on a newsworthy event, and there must be a bit of a mystery that connects the historical timeline to the contemporary plot. Obviously, as the oldest masonry fort in the United States, Castillo de San Marcos is an important and interesting landmark. Originally built by the Spanish, it later became a British possession, reverted again to the Spanish, and eventually became part of the United States’ holdings. With such a long and varied history, I’m sure you can see why this unique structure would make an interesting landmark around which to base a story.

 

The newsworthy event the plot focuses on is the incarceration of those seventy-three Plains Indians, deemed some of the “worst of the worst” offenders in the Indians Wars of the West. Can you imagine the buzz such an event would create? Once the Indians fell into their routine inside the fort, they were given quite a bit of freedom to interact with the locals and tourists. People came from far and wide to see these men and their historic surroundings along the banks of the Matanzas River. With a simple day pass from the fort’s commander, outsiders could enter, walk among and talk with the prisoners, see the historic fort, and even watch cultural events like dances, powwows, mock buffalo hunts, and archery displays. The Native men could also leave the fort and venture into town to shop or sell handmade goods, from bows and arrows to hand-crafted items made from locally-sourced seashells and plants, to their original “ledger art.”

 

It’s the ledger art that comprises the mysterious puzzle piece connecting the historical timeline of Love’s Fortress to the present day. When Dani Sango learns her long-estranged father has died, she inherits his rundown St. Augustine house. Inside, she discovers a book of Native American art depicting events from one Indian’s daily life. But because her father was a convicted art forger, Dani questions why he would have the strange and rudimentary artwork. She suspects it was his latest scam, so she enlists the help of Brad Osgood, curator of a western art museum in St. Petersburg, Florida, to help her discover where the art originated and how her father came to possess it. In the process, the pair digs deep into the history of the St. Augustine fort and its former residents.

 

I found it fascinating to research this brief period in the Castillo’s long history, and I hope you’ll enjoy the story that came from my efforts.

Blog Stops

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, March 26

Remembrancy, March 26

The Christian Fiction Girl, March 27

Texas Book-aholic, March 27

Inklings and notions, March 28

Jeanette's Thoughts, March 28

Bigreadersite, March 29

For Him and My Family, March 29

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 30

Betti Mace, March 30

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 31

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 31

deb's Book Review, April 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 1

Older & Smarter?, April 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 3

Life of Literature, April 3

Genesis 5020, April 4

For the Love of Literature, April 4

Connie's History Classroom, April 5

Blossoms and Blessings, April 5

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 6 (Spotlight)

Splashes of Joy, April 6

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, April 7

Through the Fire Blogs, April 7

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 8

Pause for Tales, April 9

Labor Not in Vain, April 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and paperback 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/1c10d/love-s-fortress-celebration-tour-giveaway

Claiming Her Legacy by Linda Goodnight // Just Read Tour, Review, and Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Claiming Her Legacy by Linda Goodnight, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Claiming Her Legacy 

Author: Linda Goodnight 

Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired Trade 

Release Date: April 26, 2022 

Genre: Inspirational Historical Romance 

With her family’s legacy on the line, a woman with everything to lose must rely on a man hiding from his past… 

Oklahoma, 1890 

Frontier women don’t ride off alone to track an outlaw—not even women as capable as tomboy spinster Willa Malone. But Willa desperately needs the bounty money offered for her father’s killer if she’s to keep their homestead and take care of her sisters. That means she needs an expert tracker's help. Gideon Hartley has the skill, but the handsome trail guide also has a troubling secret… 

Gideon has spent years trying to numb his pain with whiskey. Little by little, their quest—and Willa’s belief in him—is restoring the sense of purpose he thought he’d lost. Journeying into the heart of danger, they’ll have to face down the past together if they hope to protect their future… 

Review:

Her dead father's debt is being called in, which puts Willa and her sister's livelihood at risk. But she will need the help of tracker Gideon Hartley in order to stand a chance bringing her father's killer to justice. 

Willa is capable and determined, knowing that her sisters depend on her to keep their homestead going. She is understandably cautious and intrigued by the enigmatic Gideon, who despite all of his faults is one of the few people who sees her and treats her with respect. 

The sisters are very close despite their differing upbringings, and I liked that they all are determined to do what it takes to save their land. The beginning is slower in pace to the rest of the book, but it helps to set the scene, introduce the characters establish the relationships. 

Overall, this was an entertaining read with compelling characters, strong family ties, faith and grit. I liked how Gideon treats Willa right from the beginning, making her feel respected and seen. The story builds as it goes along with strong faith and character growth. Definitely a solidly enjoyable read!

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

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Walmart | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestseller Linda Goodnight fell in love with words as a young child when her mother took her to a tiny library and let her fill a cardboard box with books. The next week she was back again, forever hooked on the beauty and power of the written word. Her other passions are her faith and her blended family. A former nurse and teacher, she lives in Oklahoma with her husband where she enjoys baking and travel. Connect with Linda at www.lindagoodnight.com

CONNECT WITH LINDA: Website | Facebook

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 5, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on April 12, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

All That We Carried by Erin Bartels // Review

My Review:

Estranged sisters go on a hike in hopes of reconciling after the accident that severed them ten years before. 

This was a book that I struggled with, and I kind of knew that would likely be that case heading into it as I had seen many mixed reviews for this title. A well written read that follows two sisters, going back and forth between the past and present day. The sisters, Melanie and Olivia are about as different as can be, especially in how they dealt with the death of their parents. Olivia is the logical lawyer, the planner, while her sister, Melanie, is a free-spirited life coach. Olivia is an atheist, while Melanie believes there is truth in multiple religions. 

There is a lot of symbolism throughout the story, from their hike and their burdens, to even their varying attitudes about Christianity, as well as in the character of Josh. 

In the end, though the book is well written, didn't find the book to my personal taste. I think that the author did a good job of showing two very opposite sisters, and their differing worldviews, though they were definitely seeking something to hold onto, the ending I felt left it pretty wide open as to where they would someday end up. I also was uneasy with the unequally yoked couple. I could definitely see why some people would really enjoy this one, but it just wasn't for me.

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

Canyon Survival by Connie Queen // Review

Review: 

A deadly chase through a canyon puts a woman who doesn't know who she is, with two children under her care, in the path of former FBI agent Riggs Brenner. 

A fast paced read, that keeps up the tension and high stakes throughout, the heroine doesn't remember who she is or who the children are or why they are with her.  I liked that even though she doesn't know who she is, she still clings to her faith and is willing to do everything that she can to protect the children in her care. But as the pieces come together, Riggs becomes more invested in their little crew, despite his original reasons for being up in the mountains.

An action packed, definitely a page turning read, with great elements of mystery, suspense, relationship building and action. A highly enjoyable and satisfying read from beginning to end!

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

Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson // Review

My Review:

Isabelle has high hopes for her arranged marriage with one of the most eligible bachelors of new money, but her dreams are dashed by her husband's cold demeanor and working long hours at his textile mill. 

Not your typical sweet period romance, this book follows Isabelle as she goes from a naïve bride, to a woman of grace and determination. There was so much to love about this book, I loved the friendships that Isabelle formed with the staff, the Kenworthys, as well as their devotion to Alec. I admired Isabelle for going all in and doing her best to support and love her husband despite her situation, as well as learning to stand up for herself. 

Overall, this was a well written read, with excellent characters, and a strong admirable heroine. I especially loved dear Glory, with her innocent exuberance for life and open heartedness, yet not immune to her own struggles. I think that the choice not to show Alec's point of view helped me to understand what Isabelle was going through better. Though not what I expected, this was a worthy read, with a strong heroine, that I really enjoyed. 

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