Undercurrent of Secrets by Rachel Scott McDaniel // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book:  Undercurrent of Secrets

Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel

Genre: Christian Romance

Release date: September 2021

Two women, a century apart, are bound by a haunting secret aboard a legendary steamboat.

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

As wedding coordinator for the 100-year-old steamboat The Belle of Louisville, Devyn Asbury takes pride in seeing others’ dreams come true, even though her engagement had sunk like a diamond ring to the bottom of the Ohio River. When the Belle becomes a finalist in the Timeless Wedding Venue contest, Devyn endeavors to secure the prestigious title with hopes to reclaim some of her professional dreams. What she hadn’t planned on was Chase Jones showing up with a mysterious photo from the 1920s.

A century earlier, Hattie Louis is as untamable as the rivers that raised her. As the adopted daughter of a steamboat captain, her duties range from the entertainment to cook. When strange incidents occur aboard the boat, Hattie’s determined to discover the truth. Even if that means getting under First Mate Jack Marshall’s handsome skin.

Click here to get your copy!

Review:

Devyn Asbury is having one of the worst days of her life when Chase Jones approaches her with a mystery attached to an old photograph. 

A century earlier Hattie Louis, the daughter of the steamboat captain, can do it all from playing the calliope to navigating. She stows aboard a steamboat to escape her evil uncle.

A captivating read with dual-timelines 100 years apart, tied together by a steamboat and a photograph. Devyn is under a lot of pressure to pull out all of the stops to pull together a winning entry in a wedding venue contest. Working with Chase is a welcome distraction that proves helpful as she learns more of The Belle of Louisville's history on the river. I liked Chase, he is a really nice guy who thinks the best of others, and is passionate about the past. He is intelligent and patient. 

I was equally invested in both of the storylines, it had great pace, and was well researched. Hattie loves being on the river, and finds a refuge there when running for her life. An engaging high stakes adventure, I admired Hattie for her good sense of priorities, level-headness and faith. 

Overall, an excellent dual timeline read, with an intriguing plot and engaging characters. A story about two courageous young women who aim beyond what is expected of them, with the help of faith and new friends, finding lasting love. Highly recommend, one of my favorites of this multi-author series so far!

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

A Century on the River

In 1914, America hadn’t joined WWI yet. Airplanes, or flying machines as they were called, were still a phenomenon. Radios weren’t a thing. Hawaii and Alaska weren’t part of the United States. The world as a whole looked different than the one we walk today. But one thing remains true as it had 100 years ago—The Belle of Louisville graced the waters. In fact, the century-old steamboat is like a floating time capsule.

First named the Idlewild, this boat was built in Pittsburgh, PA and was launched in October 1914. It began its days as a packet boat, hauling freight and ferrying passengers. During the ‘Roaring 20s’ there wasn’t much documentation for her travels. But it’s believed the Idlewild spent the decade tramping—a steamboat term for going up and down the river, stopping at various towns and taking passengers for excursions. Which worked perfectly for Undercurrent of Secrets.

The boat was then sold to New Orleans where it continued to ferry passengers. In 1931, The Idlewild spent a season in Louisville running trips to Rose Island and Fontaine Ferry amusement parks. It then spent the next several years coursing the waterways from Canada to New Orleans, living upon the Mississippi and Ohio river systems until WWII. The second world war brought a lot of action to the Idlewild which was then outfitted with special equipment to push oil barges along the river. She also served as a floating USO nightclub for troops stationed at military bases along the Mississippi River.

In 1947, she was sold and renamed the Avalon. For the next two decades the legendary lady spent her days along the rivers, hosting excursions, bringing adventure to the hearts of many Americans. But all those years and miles eventually caught up to her and she fell in disrepair. In 1962, she was put up for auction in Cincinnati where she was purchased by Jefferson County Judge Executive Marlow Cook for $34,000. She then received her third name, The Belle of Louisville.

The restoration of the boat was supervised by marine architect Alan L. Bates (later Captain Bates). Capt. Bates’ books, Str. Belle of Louisville, and Moonlight at 8:30, were a huge help to me while researching the history of the boat and the crews who worked on her. The reno crew worked tirelessly rebuilding the Belle and on April 30th, she tested the waters again by racing against the Delta Queen in the first Great Steamboat Race. The Belle has been wharfed in Louisville ever since. This century-old steamboat has stood the test of time, surviving decades, sinkings, storms, weathering all the trials with grit and grace. If you ever find yourself in Louisville, you could book a cruise on the Belle and experience history.

Blog Stops

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, September 25

Rachael's Inkwell, September 25

Texas Book-aholic, September 26

Christian Bookaholic, September 26

Where Faith and Books Meet, September 27

Inklings and notions, September 27

Genesis 5020, September 27

For Him and My Family, September 28

Life of Literature, September 28

deb's Book Review, September 29

Jeanette's Thoughts, September 29

Remembrancy, September 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 30

She Lives to Read, October 1

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 1

Older & Smarter?, October 1

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting, October 2

Mary Hake, October 2

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 3

Simple Harvest Reads, October 3 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Bizwings Blog, October 3

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 4

For the Love of Literature, October 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 5

Through the fire blogs, October 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 6

Pause for Tales, October 6

Artistic Nobody, October 7 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Just Your Average reviews, October 7

Splashes of Joy, October 8

Labor Not in Vain, October 8

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/11b61/undercurrent-of-secrets-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery by Amanda Cox // Review

Review:

After the death of her husband Sarah returns to her hometown to revives her dream of running the Old Depot Grocery alongside her mother and grandmother. Working together brings secrets from the past to the surface, can they save the store and make peace with the past. 

A story that weaves together the lives of three generations of women, jumping through pivotal moments in their lives, and the reasons for the secrets that they each keep. In some ways the construction of the story made it a slow start as the pieces took a while to come together, I really enjoyed getting to know each of the ladies through the snapshots of their lives. Clarence was probably was one of my favorite characters, and he proved to be a wonderful man through and through.

Overall, a touching, and poignant read about family, faith, and the secrets that we keep. I liked how it explored the complex relationships, and the challenges that each of the women faced. A solid read, with great depth and well developed characters. 

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

Vindication Season Two : Episode Six // Review and Pureflix Subscription Giveaway

Vindication is a unique crime drama series that alters the perception of faith-based entertainment. 

http://www.vindicationseries.com/

Review:

As a troubling case involving provocative photographs of minors comes to light, Detective Travis and Detective Tre Millwood work to solve the case.

This second season of Vindication has been so far more focused on the personal stories of the characters, with a little less of the crime. Det. Travis come a long way since the first season and I like how that has impacted his marriage and personal faith. Episode six of the second season though takes us back to the crime solving that caught my attention in the first place, Det. Tre Millwood is an excellent addition to Travis's team, as he seems like a solid and dependable man to have in his corner. 

I think that this particular episode did a great job of showing the dangers of posting risky content online, as well as trusting strangers and the dangers of child predators. This TV show is excellently acted and well made, handling difficult topics in a honest yet not explicit way that can help start meaningful conversations with your teens. I don't want to give too much away, but I feel like the show is getting into the groove again with things in Travis's work life starting to heat up. I'm excited to see where the rest of the season goes!

#VindicationMIN
I received complimentary access to the episode reviewed. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Link to review of season one: https://labornotinvain.blogspot.com/2021/09/vindication-season-one-review.html

Vindication is now streaming its second season, new episodes every Wednesday on Pureflix! 

Catch up on the first season, then start streaming the second. 

Pureflix has an entire catalog of clean family entertainment start your free trial today at https://pureflix.com

Giveaway! 6-month Pure Flix subscription (for U.S. residents only)

(Note: If you do not already have a Pure Flix subscription, you will receive a 3-month subscription) 

Leave a comment telling me your favorite Christian movie or TV show, along with your email address (youremail at hotmail dot com). Giveaway ends 10/12/21 11:59PM CST

 

Provenance by Carla Laureano // Review

Review:

Interior stylist Kendall Green is drawn to Jasper Lake by a promising inheritance from a grandmother she never knew. In Jasper Lake she meets Gabriel Brandt the young mayor, bent on turning the town with an aging population around. Will Kendall find the answers to the questions surrounding her provenance?

A moving read, with well developed characters in a inviting small mountain community. Engaging read with well built characters that felt honest, I liked learning along with Kendall more about her origins and the circumstances that brought her to where she is now. Gabe is a natural leader, with people skills and a core of integrity, and I liked that he stood firm on his beliefs. 

Overall, a pleasant small town romance, that tackles faith, love, and family in a moving and engaging way, The characters were likable, and I loved getting to know the residents of Jasper Lake. Strong themes of faith, and new friendships.

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

Snowstorm Sabotage by Kerry Johnson // JustRead Tour, Review, Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Snowstorm Sabotage by Kerry Johnson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Snowstorm Sabotage
Author: Kerry Johnson
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: September 28, 2021
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Can she survive a blizzard…

and being framed? 

Single mom Everly Raven didn't just discover the murder of her friend—she's being framed for it. Now she's on the run from hired killers at her family's ski resort, all while a deadly blizzard rages. Her only hope is her ex-husband, FBI agent Isaac Rhodes—the secret father of her child. But can they live long enough for him to meet their daughter—and clear Everly’s name?

Review:

Everly Raven is doing her best to keep things going that her parent's New England ski resort, while raising her young daughter. She finds herself fighting to clear her name after being framed for a homicide, bringing her face to face with her FBI agent ex-husband Isaac Rhodes. 

A fast paced read with a well built backstory, I liked how both Isaac and Everly have grown during their time apart. There is a lot going on, and I liked the relationship building, faith, and suspense. It was a quick read, that I didn't want to put down. I really like how Isaac was there for her at the right time, with the right skills to help Everly when she needed him.

Overall, a fast paced read with characters that you can cheer for, filled with mystery, suspense and good character interaction. A highly enjoyable read!

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

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Kerry Johnson has been conversing with fictional characters since her childhood in the Connecticut woods. A long-time member of ACFW, she’s a seven-time Genesis Contest finalist and two-time winner. She lives on the west coast of Florida with her engineer husband, two teenaged sons, her nine-year-old niece, and way too many books. She loves Jesus, long walks, all creatures great and small, and iced chai tea.

CONNECT WITH KERRY: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a pinecone necklace. (1) winner will receive a $25 Starbucks gift card. (10) winners will receive an individually wrapped snowflake soap.

 

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 28, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 5, 2021. 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 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.

Carved in Stone by Elizabeth Camden // Review

My Review:

The first in a captivating new series set in the Gilded Age, Carved in Stone introduces the powerful Blackstone family, as secrets are revealed with the future of the largest merger in US history at stake. 

Gwen Kellerman loves her life at college hosting gatherings of some of the most inquisitive minds, drawing comfort from the familiar. But her safe haven is at risk of going under, a chance sighting has her fighting to save the college alongside Patrick a principled young lawyer who dislikes everything her family represents. Does their love stand a chance?

A captivating and engaging novel, and an excellent introduction to the powerful Blackstone family. I loved how this book juxtaposes the lives of Gwen, Liam and Patrick,  who come from vastly different backgrounds, as they try to find common ground and fight for what matters. Gwen is passionate about education, and longs for the close family connection that she was robbed of throughout her life. I admired her willingness to help, her compassion, and courage. Patrick is a hardworking and compassionate lawyer, he holds high standards of integrity for himself, and he is a wonderful friend.

Overall, a wonderful introductory to this brand new series by Elizabeth Camden. I loved the characters, rich history, and engaging plot. I'm so excited to see what happens next with this series, crossing my fingers for more on Liam and Natalia!

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

The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady by Sharon J. Mondragon // I Read with Audra Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

A knitting group’s change of scenery changes lives in unexpected ways
 
Margaret, Rose, Jane, and Fran had a good thing going: meet every week in the quiet of their peaceful chapel and knit prayer shawls. No muss, just ministry. That is, until their pastor boots them out of the church in his last-ditch effort to revive the dwindling congregation.
 
Uptight Margaret isn’t having it. Knitting prayer shawls where people can watch is the most ridiculous idea she’s ever heard of, and she’s heard plenty. Prayer belongs in the church, not out among the heathen masses. How are they supposed to knit holiness into these shawls if they’re constantly distracted by the public? But with no choice, the others embrace the challenge. They pack their knitting bags and drag Margaret—grumbling the whole way—to the mall with them. She can’t wait to prove them all wrong when it fails miserably, and show the pastor that she always knows best.
 
Without the familiar mold the group has been stuck in, their own losses, pain, and struggles rise to the surface. And the people and situations they encounter every time they try to sit quietly and knit are taking them a lot further out of their comfort zone than they ever imagined. Can they find the courage to tackle the increasing number of knotty issues they learn about in the community--or will the tangle be too much to unravel?
 
Sharon J. Mondragon’s debut is warm and delightful, full of real laughter, grief, and personality. It beautifully illustrates the power of women across generations to reach people for Christ.
 
To read an excerpt of The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady click here.

Review: A heartwarming read about friendship, faith and the power of prayer.

An engaging read filled with colorful characters and heartfelt moments, I loved the strong themes of faith and friendship throughout. We also get to know each of the main characters, their struggles and challenges, as they knit and pray. I appreciated the original premise, and as a knitter myself it's clear that the author knows her stuff!

A cozy, feel-good read, with a little something for everyone. I loved the full cast of characters, as well as the idea of knitting at the mall as a ministry. This was such and enjoyable read, heartwarming, and hard to put down, I loved that I became just as invested in the supporting characters lives as well as those of Fran, Rose, Jane, and Margaret. Filled with charm, and endearing characters that you can root for, this is a winning read from beginning to end!

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

Sharon J. Mondragón writes about the place where kindness and courage meet. Her debut novel, The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady (originally titled The Heavenly Hugs Prayer Shawl Ministry) was the 2017 winner of the American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis award in the Short Novel Category, and she has also been recognized by The Saturday Evening Post where her short story, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” was an Honorable Mention Awardee in the 2014 their Great American Fiction Contest.
 
Mondragón has been active in prayer shawl ministry since 2008 and currently serves as facilitator for the prayer shawl ministry at her church, St. Paul Episcopal in Waxahachie, TX. She also knits with the Circle of Healing at Red Oak United Methodist Church. She is a Level 2 Certified Knitting Instructor through the Craft Yarn Council and teaches beginning knitting at a local yarn store.
 
Mondragón is the mother of five grown children and has four grandchildren. After 26 years as an Army wife, she has settled in Midlothian, TX with her hero/husband, her laptop, and her yarn stash.
 
Visit Sharon Mondragón’s website and blog at www.sharonjmondragon.com and follow her on Facebook (Sherry Mondragón) and Twitter (@SJ_Mondragón).
 

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Courageous Legacy // Movie Review and Giveaway

THE MOVIE YOU LOVE, AT A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

Ten years ago this fall, COURAGEOUS opened in theaters across the world.

Filled with heart-pounding action, laugh-out-loud humor, and powerful inspiration,

COURAGEOUS has entertained and impacted families across the globe for the past

decade.

From the Kendrick Brothers, creators of the No. 1 box-office movie WAR ROOM and OVERCOMER, comes the remastered re-release of COURAGEOUS Legacy, in theaters September 24. Celebrating 10 years of impact on families and fathers, this updated version of the film includes new scenes and an enhanced look and sound.
 

Four men, one calling: To serve and protect. As law enforcement officers, they are confident and focused. Yet at the end of the day, they face a challenge that none of them are truly prepared to tackle: fatherhood. While they consistently give their best on the job, good enough seems to be all they can muster as dads. When tragedy hits home, they are left wrestling with their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering. Can a newfound urgency help these dads draw closer to God ... and to their children?
 

Filled with action-packed drama, COURAGEOUS Legacy will once again have viewers laughing, crying, and cheering as they are challenged and inspired by everyday heroes who long to be the kinds of dads that make a lifelong impact on their children. Protecting the streets is second nature to these men. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That's courageous. https://www.courageousthemovie.com/

*Download the Resolution HERE for free! This is a great way for fathers to take the next step and make a commitment to their wives and children.

*Watch another fun video from the Kendrick Brothers HERE

Review:

A powerful movie about what it means to be a father, husband and man of God, to stand firm in Christ and fight for what is right no matter what the world says. 

I can't believe that it's been 10 years since this movie first came out, I remember watching it with my family and watching it is just as relevant today. A fast-paced and captivating film that goes from action packed moments, to heart challenging, and hilarious. I love how they don't shy away from a strong and clear faith message of Biblical fatherhood, as well as challenges men to be that man for their own families. 

A heartfelt and sincere film for the entire family. I loved the comradery between the men, their friendship and the humor. The additional ending adds to the story, and if you love the movie you will enjoy it! An engaging and well acted film, with a powerful message. I'm so glad that I was able to see this film again, along with the added ending! You won't want to miss it!

#CourageousLegacyMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Sony Pictures for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Go see Courageous Legacy in theaters starting Friday September 24th!

Find a theater here: 

https://tickets.courageousthemovie.com/

Giveaway!

2 FREE tickets to see the film during the opening week (beginning Sept. 24th). Leave a comment telling me if you have seen Courageous before or not, along with your email address (youremail at hotmail dot com)
Note: This giveaway is limited to US winners (and bloggers) only. Giveaway ends 9/24/21 11:59PM CST

God's Not Dead : We the People // Movie Review

The God’s Not Dead franchise continues in God’s Not Dead: We the People as Reverend Dave (White) is called to defend a group of Christian homeschooling families. He finds himself taken aback by the interference of the government, and believing that their right to educate their own children is a freedom worth fighting for, Reverend Dave is called to Washington DC to testify in a landmark congressional hearing that will determine the future of religious freedom in our country for years to come.

 

In the words of Ronald Reagan, “Freedom is a fragile thing”. Individual freedoms and liberties are at the center of this passionate and emotional story, and it runs from the heart of the country to the corridors of Washington. Who will decide what a child needs to know for generations to come? Will God be left behind?

A few fun facts:

-Christian singer Francesca Battistelli is one of the lead characters in the film, and she plays a Christian woman who homeschools her children (Bonus fun fact: Francesca homeschools her children in real life!)
 

-Some of the original God's Not Dead movie characters are back in this film!
 

-You can learn more about the cast HERE

Go see the movie in theaters October 4th, 5th, and 6th only!

Find Tickets: https://godsnotdead.com/

Review:

As a former homeschool student myself, I remember well watching the court decisions on cases that affected homeschooling rights over the years. So I was intrigued by this 4th installment of the God's Not Dead franchise, that centers around a group of homeschoolers facing persecution for their decision to homeschool for faith-based reasons. 

An engaging film that introduces new characters along with familiar faces. I thought that  the film did a decent job of representing homeschooling and the common misconceptions surrounding it, as well as the struggles and fears. Heart-tugging as well as patriotic, I liked the multiple interwoven storylines, and characters. 

Overall, an entertaining and engaging family film, excellently acted, and featuring well known faces. A great conversation starter, though it does tend to be the type of film that will mostly appeal to one side of the aisle and knows it. I liked the focus on family, and faith. Perfect for fans of previous movies in the franchise!

#GodsNotDeadMIN #GodsNotDeadWeThePeople

#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak for providing this product/product information for review.  Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

Roar Like a Lion by Levi Lusko and Tama Fortner, illustrated by Catherine Pearson // Review and Giveaway!

Review:

90 devotionals written presented in a vibrantly colored format, with encouragement for facing everyday challenges. 

A conversational devotional that centers around instilling confidence and courage into your child through faith. With a target audience of 6-10 years old, each devotional takes about 3 minutes to read, and includes a fun activity called Get Ready to Roar!

Overall, a fun and motivating read, great for the start of the day or for bedtime, with your young ones. Some of the devotionals focus on Bible stories and others take readers through relatable situations meant to be conversation starters with your kids, each losing with a quick prayer. A great reminder of God's presence, power and love.

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing this product/product information for review.  Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

#RoarLikeALionMIN #roarlikealion #tommynelsonbooks

Order today: https://www.roarlikealionbook.com/

Levi Lusko is the author of the bestselling books “Through the Eyes of a Lion” and “Swipe Right.” He is also the lead pastor of Fresh Life Church – a multisite church located in Montana, Utah, Oregon, and Wyoming that he and his wife Jennie pioneered in 2007. Levi travels around the world speaking about Jesus. He takes pleasure in small things, such as black coffee, new shoes, fast Internet, and falling asleep in the sun. He and his wife have one son: Lennox, and four daughters: Alivia, Daisy, Clover, and Lenya, who is in heaven. His new book “I Declare War,” is now available.

Giveaway: 1 physical copy of Roar Like A Lion. Leave a comment below with your favorite Bible story and your email address (youremail at yahoo dot com). Ends 9/25/21.

Note: This giveaway is limited to US winners only.