The Secret Society of Salzburg by Renee Ryan // Review

My Review: 

The story of two women, an opera singer and an aspiring artist who risk it all to help Jews escape the wrath of the Nazis. 

A gripping historical read, compelling characters and courageous women, as they face the growing unrest in Austria and Germany in the first rumblings of WWII. Based on a true story this is a rich historical novel of love and sacrifice. 

Elsa is a gifted singer, admired by Hitler, but she hides a dangerous secret of Jewish heritage. Her unlikely friendship with Vera and Hattie Featherstone allows them to work together to help Jews escape Germany. The story follows Elsa in two separate timelines, and I admired her strength throughout. 

Overall, a engaging and heartbreaking read, compelling and well written. Bringing to life treacherous times, and the courage of remarkable women.  

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

Potiphar's Wife by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review: 

A gripping drama of a Cretan Princess thrust into a marriage of convenience to Pharaoh's most trusted friend, she longs for her homeland while struggling to find a place among the Egyptians. 

A fictional novel of redemption and faith. I found this book to be an engaging read that explores the characters of the people typically remembered as the villains in Joseph's story. Well researched, this book brought the contrasting cultures to life, I loved how Ahira and Joseph showed love to Zuleika, and despite it all I found myself grudgingly rooting for the anti-hero. 

A powerful story of redemption, belonging, and forgiveness, great for fans of ancient history. In some ways this was a more difficult read for me because I knew where it was headed, but it also took me by surprise. This book has a more mature content due to the subject matter, but I think that the author dealt with it well. I am excited to read the next book in Joseph's story. 

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

Power Play by Rachel Dylan // Review

Lucie's Review: 

International intrigue abounds as attorney Vivian Steele and former Navy SEAL Jacob Cruz try to get to the bottom of an assassination of two foreign ambassadors. 

First impressions aren't everything as Viv and Jacob find out as the web of intrigue grows smaller, though they don't initially see eye to eye they soon find that they are each other's best chance to get to the bottom of the case. Rachel finds herself in a tough spot, playing a dangerous game that she was never trained for. 

I liked how this book switched back and forth between the two teams as work to reveal what really went down. And I liking the growing friendship between Delaney and Weston as she teaches him the ropes. 

Overall this is a engaging read with a lot going on, it definitely keeps the gears spinning, as they unravel the plot behind the murders. I liked that Viv and Jacob bond over their shared faith, in this suspenseful romance. 

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

In Her Sights by Karen Witemeyer //Review

Review: 

Can Tessa catch the eye of a man who is convinced that he'll never find love?

A delightful western romance, with characters that brought a smile to my face. An entertaining read that had me invested from the very beginning, I loved the meet cute, and the cameo from Annie Oakley.  There was great interaction between them, as well and inspiring thread of faith woven throughout. 

I liked how Tessa take the initiative to show Jackson that he is a worthy man, and that she admires his noble character. 

Overall, an engaging read, with wonderful characters and a great plot, I was sad to see it end! Enjoyable must read!

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

In Spotlight and Shadow by Rachel Scott McDaniel // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: In Spotlight and Shadow

Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical Fiction / Mystery / Romance

Release date: February 1, 2023

A Gem of a Mystery Takes Center Stage

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

Elise Malvern has a habit of letting people down. Her former boyfriend who hoped she’d be his bride. Her grandfather who hoped she’d take over the family’s auction company. But mostly she’s disappointed herself. What’s the point of pursuing her passion as a violinist, if she is too scared to audition for a seat in the Pittsburgh Symphony? Her internship at the elegant Heinz Hall places her in the wings of the stage, but never on it. By accident, she discovers an old stage prop. Her instincts tell her there’s more to the paste necklace than meets the eye. Whether a good idea or not, she accepts help from a childhood friend, who happens to be country music megastar—Peirson Brooks. Peirson and Elise share a history; one she doesn’t care to repeat. The more involved they become in the mystery, the more things get tangled, including her heart.

A century earlier…
Sophie Walters longs for center stage, her name on the marquee, and all that jazz, but climbing her way into an acting career is more difficult than she imagined. Having spoiled all her chances in Hollywood, she returns to Pittsburgh, accepting an insignificant role in a popular production. She watches her dreams pass by from behind the curtain at the illustrious Loew’s Penn Theatre. She finally gets the coveted spotlight, but not for her talent. No, her surge to fame is all one terrible mistake. Somehow, she’s suspected to be a notorious jewel thief known around Pittsburgh as The Mirage. The man she pleads for help is none other than the man she jilted at the altar five years before, Sterling Monroe.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

Two women find the courage to face their pasts and embrace love. 

A fast paced read with two riveting plots that bind together across time. Elise is a violinist who discovers a secret in an old coat, while working to face her fears with the help of an old friend. Sophie finds herself in the middle of a jewel theft, and the only one who can help her prove her innocence is the man she left at the altar. 

An engaging read from the start, I liked how the author gave Elise and Sophie distinct voices, it really added to the story, giving it a depth of character. I liked that Pierson offers to help Elise, and how he is honest about his mistakes. Elise struggles with her identity, and feelings of not being good enough. I liked seeing her and Pierson together despite their initial hesitations. I especially liked the mystery and suspense of Sophie's story, I admired her courage and faith. 

Overall, this was a well done dual-timeline novel, with a riveting plot, gripping characters, romance, and faith. A page-turning read that is well worth our time!

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

About the Author

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. Rachel can be found online at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com and on all social media platforms. Her work is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency. Rachel resides in Ohio with her husband and two children.

 

More from Rachel

History of The Loew’s Penn/Heinz Hall Theater

 

The Loew’s Penn theater in Pittsburgh opened its doors on September 6, 1927. Thousands of Pittsburghians crammed the streets hoping to enter. Those who were fortunate to claim a seat gasped at the grandeur of what that has been billed the ‘Temple of Cinema.’ The new hotspot in the Steel City was regarded as the most magnificent theater between New York and Chicago.

The Loew’s Penn was five stories high and could seat over 3,000 guests. The grand lobby had a 50-foot-high vaulted Venetian ceiling, gilded Corinthian columns, and two spectacular chandeliers. The crystal for the chandeliers was imported from Vienna. From silk drapes to artwork by Renaissance masters to Italian marble staircases the theater seemed more like a museum than a cinema palace. As for the entertainment, the night began with a live stage show followed by a silent film feature.

Attendance averaged around 60,000 theatergoers a week. And with an admission charge of $.50, the theater made around $30,000 a week. Which was a substantial fortune during the 1920s. The theater hosted live stage shows and they also brought in national acts including Paul Whiteman and the Rhythm Boys featuring Bing Crosby. Also Buster Keaton and Eddie Cantor graced the stage.

Over the years, the allure of the Loew’s Penn faded, and the theater fell into disrepair, finally shutting its doors in 1968. The Howard Heinz Endowment purchased the building, saving it from demolition. After a 16-month renovation that had cost over $11 million, the doors opened yet again under the new name of Heinz Hall. The plush red carpet is bold and beautiful, but also a subtle nod to … you guessed it … Heinz Ketchup. The grand lobby features the original marble flooring as well as the two 15-foot chandeliers. The main auditorium seats 2,661 guests. Heinz Hall is now the home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra it also hosts concerts and Broadway touring companies.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, February 25

Melissa’s Bookshelf, February 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 26

Just Your Average reviews, February 26

Rebecca Tews, February 26

Where Faith and Books Meet, February 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 27

deb’s Book Review, February 28

Simple Harvest Reads, February 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 1

Blogging With Carol, March 1

Remembrancy, March 2

Connie’s History Classroom, March 2

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 3

Betti Mace, March 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 4

Cover Lover Book Review, March 4

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 5 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, March 5

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, March 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 6

For Him and My Family, March 6

Through the Fire Blogs, March 7

Bigreadersite, March 7

lakesidelivingsite, March 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 8

For the Love of Literature, March 8

Blossoms and Blessings, March 9

Holly’s Book Corner, March 9

Labor Not in Vain, March 9

Book Looks by Lisa, March 10

Pause for Tales, March 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 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/24705/in-spotlight-and-shadow-celebration-tour-giveaway

Their Unbreakable Bond by Deb Kastner // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Stone Keller returns to his hometown and takes a job working with his family friends, while he helps his ailing mother. He is surprised to find that his best friend's sister isn't so little anymore...

A romance of second chances and starting over, I liked how Stone is up for the challenges thrown his way and how he is always encouraging Felicity in her faith and to see the bright side of things. It was also really interesting learning about how they train dogs for avalanche rescue. 

I loved seeing more of the Winslow family, and I liked the interaction between Stone and Felicity. A heartwarming romance, enjoyable, with great characters. 

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

Southern Gospel // Movie Review and Giveaway

Samuel Allen, a 1960's rockstar, finds himself in jail after struggling with  years of anger and blame toward organized religion that has led him down a road of  rebellion. In a moment of divine intervention, the judge dismisses drug charges  against him under the pretense that Samuel speaks to local schools and churches  about the dangers of drugs. Given a second chance, he follows in his father's foot steps to become a preacher, overcoming the influence of a powerful church leader  with a personal vendetta against his family.

SOUTHERN GOSPEL is the story of a man overcoming brokenness and never surrendering the dream on his journey to find the gospel… Southern Gospel.

You don't want to miss this powerful story of redemption coming to theaters March 10. Get your tickets to Southern Gospel today!

https://www.southerngospel.film/

Review: 

A powerful film based on the true story of Samuel and Julie Allen. 

Samuel Allen grew up in the South, the son of a preacher, he get's heavy into a rock n' roll lifestyle before turning over his life to Christ. But the road of ministry is anything but smooth, with opposition at nearly every turn as he fights to proclaim the gospel to the hurting.

An inspiring film of faith, determination, and never giving up on the dream that God gave him. A well made movie, with an excellent cast, and poignant storytelling. I did struggle at times to keep up with the timeline and how many years were going by at a time, but overall I was very impressed with this film and enjoyed the diverse range of music. 

This film doesn't shy away from the more difficult parts of the Allen's story, and does a good job of showing how even through the dark times God was working for good in their lives. I liked the powerful message of grace throughout the movie, from beginning to end this was an excellent film. Recommend for adults and older teens, due to the mature subjects (drinking, drugs, suicide). 

 #SouthernGospelMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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

 

Samuel Allen never stopped believing that everyone deserves a second chance!

On  March 10, see how he took a stand for everyone who needs God's grace in their life.

https://www.southerngospel.film/

Giveaway: $10 Amazon Gift Card. (Limited to U.S. residents only).

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Rescuing Her Ranch by Lisa Jordan // Just Read Tour and Review

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Rescuing Her Ranch by Lisa Jordan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Rescuing Her Ranch 

Series: Stone River Ranch #1 

Author: Lisa Jordan 

Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired 

Release Date: January 24, 2023 

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

A fight for her future…

Might not be the one she thinks. 

Returning home after losing her job, Macey Stone agrees to care for the daughter of old friend Cole Crawford. Then she discovers that Cole’s uncle’s company wants to bulldoze her family’s land. Seeing the devoted dad with his child soon has her falling for the enemy. But can she choose between saving Stone River Ranch…and helping the man who’s stolen her heart? 

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub

Review: 

Starting over is hard to do, but it just might bring this cowgirl home. 

Macey is shocked to find that her old friend's uncle is set on turning her family's ranch into a mini-mart, will the land conflict get in the way of her growing feelings for Cole. An engaging small town romance, with themes of second chances and starting over. I liked how Macey took time to get to know Lexi, and comes to care for her deeply, while reconnecting with Cole. I also liked her close knit family and how they were all supportive of each other. 

Cole is a good man in a tough spot, he wants to be a good father to his daughter and be able to provide for her, but as a result he has a decision to make. He is a hardworking man in a tough spot, and I liked seeing the relationship between Cole and Macey develop.

Overall, an enjoyable read with characters that you can root for throughout. Great plotline and wonderful setting, I look forward to reading more books in the series. 

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

Also Available

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About the Author

Heart, home and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements come naturally. Happily married for over 30 years to her real-life hero, she and her husband have two grown sons. Lisa enjoys family time, good books, and creative time with friends.

Connect with Lisa by visiting lisajordanbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Rescuing Her Ranch, a set of handmade cards, and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 28, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 7, 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

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

The Marine's Mission by Deb Kastner // Review

Lucie's Review:

Aaron Jamison doesn't want anyone's help, but he begrudgingly  takes part in a trial for a local dog trainer to get a military contract. He is even less convinced when he receives a poodle named Oscar. Can Ruby and Oscar help restore Aaron's hope?

An heartwarming read, from the beginning it drew me in with the plight of Aaron and Ruby. The book does a good job of showing the struggles that Aaron faced returning to civilian life, as well as realizing that it isn't a bad thing to need help sometimes. I liked that they both were Christians with their own challenges, as well as how they bonded working together with Oscar. 

Overall, an engaging, compelling story with a great premise and wonderful characters. I loved Ruby and Aaron together. A well written book, well worth picking up!

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

Worlds Collide by Traci Hunter Abramson // Review

Review: 
Picking up right after the Olympics, Tyler and Amaliya are contemplating the future of their careers as well their future together, but first they have Worlds to conquer. 

This book delves more into the life of Amaliya's extended family living in The Soviet Union. The book does a great job of showing the realities that people living under that regime faced. A heartwarming story of love, family, and sacrifice. A wonderful read for figure skating fans.

Overall, an enjoyable, quick read, with likable characters and a moving plot. A beautiful conclusion to this wonderful series. 

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