Important Blog Housekeeping

Blog Update:

I'm not sure how 2021 is zooming by so fast, but it is. 🤯

Sometime in July 2021, the Feedburner email service I use will no longer be active. I have decided to use an alternate email service called Follow.It. If you would like to continue following me by email, please use the box at the bottom of the post to enter your email address. 

I am happy to say that this new service will allow you to choose how often you'd like to receive email. I recommend the daily or weekly option so that you do not miss out on all the giveaways. ✔

I also love to continue connecting with my fellow readers on social media and I'm dropping the links below. 

Have a fabulous rest of the week! 💛

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Book Review: Road to Rosewood by Ashtyn Newbold

About the Book:

Growing up in a dreary coastal town, Lucy Abbot has secretly dreamt of a perfect and exciting romance, missing the childhood summers spent in the countryside with her cousins and their charming neighbor, Nicholas. After Lucy learns that Nicholas has been married in the six years of her absence, she is heartbroken and more determined than ever to move beyond her past and claim her independence.

Lonely and confined, Lucy grasps an opportunity to return to the estate of Rosewood at her cousin’s invitation, hoping the escape will lift her spirits, keeping her departure secret from her protective parents.

But just as her journey is finally underway, her carriage is besieged by highwaymen with a familiar man leading them. Struggling through past heartbreak and fearing for her life in the present, Lucy can’t help but wonder—could this mysterious outlaw be exactly the person she has been searching for?

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My Thoughts:

I practically devoured Road to Rosewood by Ashtyn Newbold. This fast-paced, historical romance carried my attention from beginning to end. Although there was some insta-love between Lucy and Nicholas, I loved their chemistry and childhood backstory. Their rekindled relationship thoroughly entertained and kept me turning the pages. I sometimes wished the plot would slow down and flesh out certain issues, but overall, the novel was well-written.

Road to Rosewood by Ashtyn Newbold is the first book I have read by this author, and I am eager to read more by her. This novel does not include a faith element, but will likely appeal to readers who enjoy clean and/or Christian fiction. It is a lovely choice for anyone desiring a light, entertaining romance.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Book Review: The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White

About the Book:

1906

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles onto the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.

Oliver Tremayne--gentleman and clergyman--is determined to discover what happened to his sister, with the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.

As Libby and Oliver work together, they uncover ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.

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My Thoughts:

It took me nearly a week to read The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White. This story of searching for pirate treasure, a missing person, and one’s place in society is meant to be savored. The author’s storytelling ability shines in both the complexity of the plot and the beautiful prose that reads like poetry. I happily returned night after night to this novel of mystery, suspense, and romance.

Although Libby Sinclair is billed as the leading lady in The Nature of a Lady, her maid/friend Mabena Moon shares the spotlight as both women experience substantial character development and blossoming romances. Oliver and Libby’s slow burn romance advances at a gradual pace that grows into a deep, beautiful connection. On the other hand, Mabena and Casek have a second-chance romance with instant tension and crackling chemistry. I enjoyed watching both relationships change and grow.

The Nature of a Lady stands as the first installment in Roseanna M. White’s The Secrets of the Isles series, and I am looking forward to book two. Readers who enjoy historical romance with spiritual themes and intriguing mystery will likely enjoy The Nature of a Lady.

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

First Line Fridays: A Companion for the Count by Sally Britton

Happy Friday!

First Line Fridays is hosted by Hoarding Books and participants share the first line from a nearby book.

Today, I'm sharing the first line from A Companion for the Count by Sally Britton.

"Clairvoir Castle, the Duke of Montfort's estate, housed over thirty servants, eight members of the duke's family, a governess, and Emma Arlen -- who really did not fit in any of the other categories of occupants."

A Companion for the Count will be my first novel by Sally Britton and I'm looking forward to it!

What are you reading this weekend? I'd love for you to share your book's first line!

Happy reading!

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About the Book:


Miss Emma Arlen’s position as a companion never included distracting her mistress’s suitors, but when a handsome Italian ambassador arrives determined to find an English bride, Emma happily takes up the cause.

Emma Arlen has spent a decade as a member of the duke’s family, in the position of companion to his daughter and ward to the duke himself. She would do anything to show her support to the ducal family for their love and kindness. When Lady Josephine begs Emma to distract a most determined Sicilian suitor, she agrees at once. How hard can it be to keep one man entertained for a few weeks?

Luca, the Conte di Atella, left his home in the newly formed Kingdom of the Two Sicilies under the direct orders of King Ferdinand I. Luca’s duty as ambassador to England includes everything from negotiating better trade agreements to strengthening the bonds between the two nations. If possible, by marrying a lady of high birth. When he optimistically sets his sights on Lady Elinor, Miss Arlen consistently disrupts his plans. The more time that passes, the more he realizes he does not mind at all.

Continually in the conte’s company, Emma recognizes in him a spirit of adventure and nobility like she has never witnessed before. When the time comes for him to go, will she be able to part with him and keep her heart intact?

As the second stand-alone novel in a new series by author Sally Britton, this story continues the Clairvoir Castle romances. This is a light-hearted, romantic series set in the Regency period.

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Pearl's Promise by Edwina Kiernan

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Pearl's Promise by Edwina Kiernan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Pearl's Promise 

Series: Gems of Grace #2 

Author: Edwina Kiernan 

Publisher: Moliant Publishing 

Release Date: May 1, 2021 

Genre: Christian Historical Romance 

A duty-bound heir. A dejected spinster. An encounter that could ruin both their families' demands for their futures... 

Horrified to see the man she had always dreamed of marrying saying his vows to someone else, Pearl Acton’s devastation only seems to confirm one of her deepest fears - that she’ll remain unseen and alone, never mattering to anyone. 

And when her family falls on hard times and seeks to marry her off to a wealthy suitor as soon as possible, her other deepest fear seems inevitable - being trapped in a loveless marriage, just like her parents. 

Until an encounter with a quiet and soulful heir, Nicholas Dalton, sparks a fragile hope that perhaps Pearl might save her family’s fortune and marry for love. 

But when circumstances on both sides of their families take drastic turns, the promise of happiness seems irrevocably shattered. 

As Pearl and Nicholas each strive to uphold their family duties, they soon discover that things aren’t quite what they seem. But is it too late to escape their crushing obligations and forge a new path - together? 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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EXCERPT

Pearl’s voice trailed off as she caught sight of a young man standing in front of the wall to her left. He had been staring at her, though his eyes had swiftly darted elsewhere the instant they’d met hers.

Heat crept into her cheeks, and a strange falling sensation made her absentmindedly reach for the side of her chair to steady herself. She stared at him. There was something refreshing about him, something . . . real.

The young man lifted his head, which he had dipped to look at something — whether real or imaginary — on the floor. He slowly turned his head in her direction, his eyes still roaming the room.

Pearl was entranced. Something about him, and how casual he was trying to appear — despite how obvious it was that she had seen him watching her — made her want to laugh.

Agonisingly slowly, his head finally turned in her direction, his gaze still dipped to the floor.

In the speed of a heartbeat, his eyes glanced up to meet hers, immediately flitting away again.

Brief as the moment had been, something had pierced her as their eyes had met. A tingling energy coursed through her. Who was he? And why had he been looking at her like that?

The young man turned to walk away. Pearl’s heart sank.

She exhaled sharply though quietly. Why should it matter to her if he turned and left? She did not even know who he was.

And yet, as he walked away, she felt more alone than she ever had before.

The young man stopped. Pearl’s heart did, too, as she watched and waited. Would he turn back, or vanish from her sight forever?

The moments seemed like hours. Despite the distance that divided them, the tension the young man held in his body was plain to see. He almost looked torn in two directions.

Please, do not let him leave . . .

Surprised at her sudden, silent prayer, she held her breath, enduring the agonising wait. Every nerve within her was on edge. Time had stopped — at least, as far as she was concerned. All sounds of merriment and music drifted out of Pearl’s awareness as her focus fixed entirely upon the stranger. Nothing remained but a heavy atmosphere of anticipation and deafening silence.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Edwina Kiernan is a Christian writer, and author of the well-received Inspirational Regency romance novel, Ruby’s Redemption.

An enthusiast of classic novels and history, Edwina combines her faith, imagination, and research in hope-infused tales set in times past. Her latest novel is the second in the Inspirational Regency romance series, Gems of Grace. 

A lifelong word admirer, with Welsh and Irish heritage, she started writing stories early in childhood. She still loves to learn, taking courses from places like Oxford University and the Beau Monde, for both fun and further education. 

When she’s not writing, Edwina loves spending time with her dashing husband and lively little son, reading and studying the Bible, getting lost in a captivating novel, and drinking more types of tea than most people realize even exist. 

 For free gifts, updates, and lots of classic and historical fiction goodness, join her mailing list at EdwinaKiernan.com

CONNECT WITH EDWINA: Website | Facebook | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Pearl's Promise and 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 June 22, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 29, 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 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.

Book Review: Oliver by Steven J. Carino and Alex Tresniowski

About the Book:

He Was Searching for a Lost Dog. 

He Found More Than He’d Ever Hoped For.

On Valentine’s Day 2019, someone stole Steven Carino’s dog, Oliver, from his car. Having lost his mother at thirteen and grown up with an alcoholic father, he could always count on his dogs for comfort and company. But now, with his beloved Oliver missing, Steven felt utterly alone.

Then, the miracle. In a series of near-impossible coincidences, people from different walks of life crossed paths with Oliver and with Steven. Hardworking immigrants, wealthy suburbanites, car mechanics, deli workers, old friends, close relatives, street cops, gang members, a TV news reporter, social media followers around the world, and one very gifted hairdresser all played a part in Steven’s desperate journey to find Oliver. In the middle of it all, Steven realized that no one is ever truly alone--and that the power of community can be life-changing.

Oliver is not just a book about a stolen dog. At its core, it’s a story about kindness, friendship, and the power of faith. As Steven says, “This is more than just a dog story. This is an everybody story. This is a love story.”

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My Thoughts:

Oliver: The True Story of a Stolen Dog and the Humans He Brought Together by Steven J. Carino and Alex Tresniowski offers a story of love and community suitable for all animal lovers, but especially those who love dogs. Much time is devoted to Oliver and Steven’s close canine-human relationship. At first, the moments of extreme emotion felt excessive. However, as Steven continued explaining his past experiences and his devotion to Oliver, I came to recognize Oliver’s loss as equivalent to the loss of a child. This understanding boosted my interest in the story and helped me relate to Steven. Though Oliver was not written exclusively by Steven J. Carino, his voice permeates the narrative as he recounts the raw emotions and spiritual struggles of that time with deep honesty and authenticity.

Oliver stands as more than the memoir of a man whose dog was taken because it tells the story of how the people around Steven drew together in unity. Race, age, gender, and social status lacked any importance. The community – family members, friends, strangers, social media followers, and others – saw a need and responded with compassion and love. Furthermore, as Steven recognizes these gifts, he learns to reach out with love and forgiveness to those who hurt him the most. Oliver lands as inspiring tale about the power of love to transform a life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product via the Amazon Vine program. All opinions in this review are my own.

First Line Fridays: Pearl's Promise by Edwina Kiernan

Happy Friday!

First Line Fridays is hosted by Hoarding Books and participants share the first line from a nearby book.

Today, I'm sharing the first line from Pearl's Promise by Edwina Kiernan.

"Mr. Stratton is married? And to a woman of ill repute!"

Sounds like a tense moment, doesn't it? This one is in my tbr for this month or the next.

What are you reading this weekend? I'd love for you to share your book's first line!

Happy reading!

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About the Book:

A duty-bound heir. A dejected spinster.
An encounter that could ruin both their families’ demands for their futures…

Pearl Acton’s worst fears are coming true. She’ll be trapped in a loveless marriage—just like her parents—as her family seeks to quickly marry her off to the wealthy Mr. Clarence. Until an encounter with a quiet and soulful heir sparks a fragile hope that somehow Pearl might aid her family and marry for love.

Nicholas Dalton has always been a disappointment to his father, with his poetic soul and disorganised nature. In London for the season, Nicholas finds an instant connection with Pearl, but it would seem her future is promised to another. Or might she feel the same as he?

As Pearl and Nicholas each strive to uphold their family duties, they soon discover that things aren’t quite what they seem. But is it too late to escape their crushing obligations and forge a new path — together?

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Where He Leads by Lynne Lanning

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Where He Leads by Lynn Lanning, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Where He Leads
Series: Desires of the Heart #1
Author: Lynne Lanning
Release Date: January 24, 2021
Genre: Christian, Historical/Western Romance 

By the age of 11, Lilly had suffered more horrific circumstances, than any adult should have to bear. She lost both of her parents and the only home she ever knew, then was forced to move away from her brothers and sisters. 

Why had God allowed all of this tragedy? 

Pa had found the perfect home for her before his death. Through her new family’s loving care and instruction, Lilly grew into a beautiful young lady, filled with compassion, intelligence, and having a strong faith in God. 

When she met Tommy, her heart flipped! How could she make all of the life lessons she had learned, her faith in God, and Tommy fit into God’s plan for her life? Was Tommy truly part of God’s plan for her? 

Tommy and his mother’s past brought possible danger to anyone close to them. Could Lilly put her family through that? Should she abandon Tommy and the feelings she had for him? Could prayer be the answer? 

With more circumstances beyond their control fighting against them, it seemed their troubles would never end. Would God allow her the Desires of her Heart? 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository | IndieBound

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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EXCERPT

Here, Lilly is being taken by her papa and two brothers to her new home.

The ride lasted about an hour and a half. During that time, Papa had told me and reminded me, how to act, be sure to behave myself, do as I’m told, keep going to school, and learn all the things that Sam and Daisy could teach me.

The closer we got, the more uncomfortable we got. The bumps in the road seemed worse, the squeaking of the buckboard seemed louder, my head started to ache, my stomach felt sick, my heart was pounding.

Finally, I couldn’t stand it any longer and I burst out, “Papa please! Please take me back home! I can stay with you. And then I can stay with Clara, she loves me! I’ll be grown before long, I’m already 11, and I will work! I will work really hard! Please! Please take me back home! I’m so far away from everybody here! Oh, Papa, I’m begging you!”

By this time I was in a full frenzy of tears. I was crying so hard, I could barely catch my breath.

No one said a word. Andrew and Matt just shook their heads and turned to look out at anything other than me.

Papa just looked straight ahead and said nothing.

For a moment I wondered if I had said anything out loud. Did I just think it? Didn’t anyone hear me? Then I looked at Papa, and I knew he had heard me. There was a tear running down his cheek.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynne and her husband, Roger, live in the beautiful foothills of North Carolina. Enjoying the life of an artist/crafter, she nurtures three generations of creativity, encouraging the natural talents of her children and grandchildren. Her stories are full of romance and action mixed with humor and sass, encouraging her readers to identify with the characters while evoking emotion. Lynne enjoys canning and preserving fresh veggies that Roger grows in his amazing garden. She also has a passion for cooking, singing, reading and volunteer work at her church.

CONNECT WITH LYNNE: Website | Facebook

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of the Desires of the Heart series!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 14, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 21, 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 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.

Book Review: Between the Wild Branches by Connilyn Cossette

About the Book:

Finding a Way to Freedom Might Cost Them Everything.

Lukio has spent the past decade as a famous Philistine fighter, achieving every material goal with the help of his ruthless cousin. He's also spent the time burying painful memories of betrayal that he associates with the Levite family that guards the Ark of the Covenant and once adopted him. Now, just as the champion of Ashdod is set to claim the biggest prize of all--the daughter of the king--his past collides with his present.

After a heartbreaking end to her secret friendship with Lukio, Shoshana thought she'd never again see the boy with the dual-colored eyes and the troubled soul. But when she is captured in a Philistine raid and enslaved in Ashdod, she is surprised to recognize the brutal fighter known as Demon Eyes.

When their renewed connection threatens to expose Shoshana's dangerous secrets, Lukio must decide how far he'll go to face his past and keep her protected.

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My Thoughts:

I devoured Between the Wild Branches by Connilyn Cossette. Mortal danger, secrets of the past, and palace conspiracies combined to produce an adventuresome read that kept me turning the pages of Lukio and Shoshana’s story. Though their youthful romance derailed with her betrothal to another, longing and mutual concern laced every interaction between the two characters, and I couldn’t help but hope for complete reconciliation. Also, I admired Lukio’s strength, character development, and example of true repentance. His transformation during the story aligned with a powerful theme of hating evil and clinging to good.

Between the Wild Branches stands as the final installment in The Covenant House Duology by Connilyn Cossette. While this novel can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading To Dwell Among Cedars first as the reader gets a front row view to young Lukio’s experiences rather than abbreviated memories. Also, towards the end of Between the Wild Branches, quite a few characters from book one reappear and I think I would have been a bit lost if I had not read the first novel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Sticks and Stone by David James Warren

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Sticks and Stone by David James Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing collectively as David James Warren.

Title: Sticks and Stone 
Series: The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #3
Author: David James Warren
Publisher: TriStone Media
Release Date: June 1, 2021
Genre: Time Travel Detective Series

When Rembrandt goes back to stop the untimely death of his partner, he finds himself wrapped up in the disappearance of two missing children in the middle of an epic Minneapolis blizzard. But, can he save the children in time--and if he does, will he also be able to save his partner?

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | BookBub

BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

CONNECT WITH REMBRANDT STONE: Website | Instagram

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EXCERPT FROM STICKS AND STONE

T‍he pieces of two lives sit in my brain like they should fit together, but no matter how hard I press, I can’t get them to line up.

My life is broken into fragments that refuse to align.

All I know is that some mistakes you can never escape, no matter how you try.

And believe me, I’ve tried.

I’m standing on the muddy shoreline in the shadow of the Stone Arch Bridge on the east bank of the Mississippi River. The morning sun is low, just brimming the horizon, gilding the water a deep, fire-orange, and turning the skyline of Minneapolis a brilliant gold. I’m watching my crime scene investigators tape off a wooded area of the Historic Main Street Park just off Anthony and Main.

A woman’s naked body is covered, awaiting the CSI director—my former wife, although she has no memory of that—and the coroner is on his way.

I’m nursing my second cup of coffee, the first one downed this morning at o-dark hundred as I crawled out of bed to the text of my assistant, Inspector Zeke Kincaid. My head is fuzzy because, as I said, I’m trying to fit together pieces that aren’t made for this puzzle.

This puzzle belongs to Rembrandt Stone, Bureau Chief Inspector for the Minneapolis Police Department and head of the task force overseeing the Jackson serial killings.

I am Rembrandt Stone, former investigator turned failed novelist, father to a seven-year-old daughter, gone missing in time, husband to a wife who can’t remember being married to him, and the owner of a time-traveling watch.

This is a lifetime I haven’t yet lived, and although the pieces are starting to form, I’m going to need a lot more coffee.

And help.

Copyright: TriStone Media Group

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

James L. Rubart is 28 years old, but lives trapped inside an older man’s body. He’s the best-selling, Christy Hall of Fame author of ten novels and loves to send readers on mind-bending journeys they’ll remember months after they finish one of his stories. He’s dad to the two most outstanding sons on the planet and lives with his amazing wife on a small lake in eastern Washington. More at http://jameslrubart.com/

CONNECT WITH JAMES: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award–winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith. For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com. 

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

David Curtis Warren is making his literary debut in these novels, and he’s never been more excited. He looks forward to creating more riveting stories with Susie and Jim, as well as on his own. He’s grateful for his co-writers, family, and faith, buoying him during the pandemic of 2020, and this writing and publishing process.

CONNECT WITH DAVID: Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of the first three books of The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 8, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 15, 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 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.

Book Review: The Piano Teacher by Kristie Self

About the Book:

She longs to escape a dreadful secret from her past, but can she ever run far enough to truly forget?

Melody Creston is left penniless following the death of her father. Desperate to escape the threat of an unwanted and dangerous marriage, she flees to the small village of Roderick Glen in the English countryside to begin life anew as a pianoforte teacher. She is hired to teach the daughter of the Earl of Rockingham and soon falls in love with the quaint village and its quirky residents. Despite her newfound freedom, she is haunted by the secrets of her past, as well as the constant fear that she will be discovered and forced to return to London.

Lord Henry Roderick is the younger son of the Earl of Rockingham and has no desire to obey his father’s wishes and help his brother attend to their family’s estate, Cheswick Park. Carefree and fun-loving, his reputation as a scoundrel often hides the true nature of his heart. Upon meeting Melody, he is instantly captivated by the beautiful piano teacher, and is determined to do whatever it takes to win her heart and become the man she needs.

Melody is intrigued by Henry and encourages him to follow his own path as he searches for his purpose in life. Shy and reserved, she is reluctant to admit her feelings for him, but as they grow closer, he begins to break through the barriers of fear and mistrust that surround her heart. As their love deepens, she becomes increasingly afraid of what will happen when he learns the truth of her turbulent past. Can love forgive a secret hidden in the shadows when it is exposed to the light of day?

Brimming with laughter, love, emotion, and heart, this first book in The Ladies of Roderick Glen series introduces us to the citizens of Roderick Glen as they follow their dreams and discover that one’s heart is always happiest near the friendly faces of home.

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My Thoughts:

In The Piano Teacher by Kristie Self, the author’s love of the piano shines brightly. As a fellow piano player, this was my favorite element of the novel, and I was pleased that it threaded from the front cover until the end.

The Piano Teacher had a unique, dialogue-heavy writing style that is uncommon to mainstream Christian Fiction. At 450+ pages long, the omniscient narrator devotes time, attention, and scenes to nearly every character in the book. Such a large cast of characters required careful reading to avoid confusion especially since each chapter was composed of short scenes that jump between different characters. While this mode of writing felt challenging to read at times, it also made the story distinctive.

As for the characters in The Piano Teacher, I enjoyed Melody, the protagonist, and two of her female friends. Henry, Melody’s love interest, irritated me with his immaturity and instant love (obsession) for Melody. Predictably, I despised the villain. Of all the characters, Melody’s personal growth into a strong, healed woman was the most believable.

The Piano Teacher begins The Ladies of Roderick Glen series by Kristie Self.

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

First Line Fridays: Is It Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh

Happy Friday!

First Line Fridays is hosted by Hoarding Books and participants share the first line from a nearby book.

Today, I'm sharing the first line from Is It Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh.

"This wasn't supposed to happen."

I absolutely loved Is It Any Wonder when I read it last month. It was the first novel I read by Courtney Walsh and now I want to read all her books. If you aren't familiar with this novel, check out the book blurb below or read an excerpt on the publisher's website. My book review is also available.

What are you reading this weekend? I'd love for you to share your book's first line! 

Happy reading!

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About the Book:

Twelve years ago, Cody Boggs and Louisa Chambers made a pact that no matter where their lives took them, they’d return to Nantucket Island’s Brant Point Lighthouse on July 30, their shared golden birthday, and continue their tradition of exchanging birthday wishes. But that was before a tragic accident upended both of their lives, irrevocably pulling them apart.

Their worlds collide just months before that particular day when Louisa’s fledgling event planning company is hired by the local Coast Guard station, where she discovers Cody has recently returned to the island as the second in command. As they plan a regatta fundraiser, hoping to promote positive PR in the community, neither can deny the fireworks each encounter ignites. But working together also brings up memories of the day Cody’s father died, revealing secrets that have Cody and Louisa questioning everything they thought they knew and felt about their families and each other.

Epic Book Launch: Donkey Devos by Susan K. Stewart

Donkey Devos Epic Book Launch

About the Book:

Book: Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks
Author: Susan K. Stewart
Genre: Devotional
Release date: July 15, 2021

Did you know the Bible mentions only two talking animals? Each of these creatures had a different message. The first to speak out was the serpent. This character certainly wasn’t a model. If God was using this snake for a test drive, I can see why he kept the mouths of the other animals closed. This snake in the grass spoke words meant for evil. Later God allowed another animal to speak—the lowly donkey. The beast of burden. This time the animal had words of wisdom.

Susan K. Stewart expected dogs, cats, and the occasional goldfish would be all the pets she’d need—until the day Susan met donkeys at a rescue center. A few years after that fateful visit, three donkeys became part of the Stewart family. Susan soon learned these humble creatures are still messengers of wisdom.

Donkey Devos is a collection of forty pearls Susan has learned from spending time learning about her equine friends and chatting with them. She uses her experiences, donkey facts, and Biblical donkey details to share the truths God has taught. The whole family will delight in the donkey tales with a message from God.

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/3uUgwUI

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Excerpt #3:

5.  Don’t rush in as a fool. Satan knows our weaknesses and uses them against us. Balaam desired money and acclaim. Satan used this desire to get Balaam to do his bidding. He foolishly rushed to satisfy his weakness, without considering the cost.

6. Open our eyes. Balaam was focused on his own gain, not on God’s instructions. He certainly wasn’t carrying God’s message. Balaam could only see what appealed to him: gold and fame. He was blind to anything from God, even a sword-wielding warrior of God.

7.  Look for God’s messenger. God chooses the way to get his message to us, and he will get his message through to us. Balaam was so set on doing things his way, he didn’t see the godly messenger. But the little donkey did and became the messenger. God uses what we will heed.
Stop. Stop what we’re doing when we can’t go any further. God may be blocking the way even when we can’t see the obstacle. Instead of pushing forward, stop, rethink, pause, pray. This is a good time to rest and seek God.

8.  Sometimes God uses something inconsequential, like a meek little donkey, to get our attention. When God opens the mouth of our donkey, he is speaking. We need to listen.

Then the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said …—Numbers 22:28

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All Excerpts:

Excerpt One: https://janemouttet.wordpress.com/2021/06/25/book-launch-donkey-devos/

Excerpt Two: https://blossomsandblessings.blogspot.com/2021/06/donkey-devos-listen-when-god-speaks-by.html

Excerpt Three: https://moments-of-beauty.blogspot.com/2021/06/epic-book-launch-donkey-devos-by-susan.html

Excerpt Four: https://carolkeen.blogspot.com/2021/06/donkey-devos-listen-when-god-speaks-by.html

Excerpt Five: https://www.amoderndayfairytale.net/2021/06/donkey-devos-epic-book-launch.html

Excerpt Six: https://storiesbygina.wordpress.com/2021/06/25/donkey-devos-epic-book-launch/

Excerpt Seven: https://catsinthecradle.blog/2021/06/24/donkey-devos-listen-when-god-speaks/

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About the Author: 

Susan K. Stewart didn’t expect to become a “donkey whisper,” as some of her neighbors say. One day God put her in a herd of donkeys, and it was love at first bray. Susan and her husband Bob live in Central Texas with their three dogs, three cats, numerous chickens, and inspiring donkeys. They have three children and six outstanding grandchildren. Susan’s passion is to inspire readers with practical, real-world solutions and a few donkey stories.