Saturday, August 28, 2021

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Night Watch by Susan Sleeman

Night Watch JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Night Watch by Susan Sleeman, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Night Watch
Series: Night Hawk Security #5
Author: Susan Sleeman
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: August 2021
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Everything points to suicide or accidental death…

Underwater crime scene investigator, Kennedy Walker is shocked when her mother dies and the police rule her death a suicide or an accidental overdose. Her scientist-mother was on the verge of a scientific breakthrough, and Kennedy knows her mother would never end her life, but the detective won’t listen. Kennedy moves back to her hometown and commits to finding her mother’s killer and finishing her work.

And she must prove them wrong.

Kennedy digs deeper, garnering the killer’s focus, and he puts her in his cross-hairs. She can’t give up on such an important project, so she swallows down her unease over the tumultuous breakup with Erik Byrd in college and hires Nighthawk Security, not only to protect her, but to help find her mother’s killer. It takes only one look for both of them to know their feelings for each other haven’t gone away. With so many people counting on her to complete the project, giving in to old feelings is a distraction neither she or Erik can afford, and they both need to keep watch. Especially in the darkest hours of the night, when the killer comes out to play.

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

EXCERPT

Erik planted his feet in a stubborn stance Kennedy recognized. “I’ve had a chance to think it over, and I won’t let you stay here. It’s too dangerous. You can stay at my condo. Much safer.”

She flashed her gaze up to his. “Not going to happen. I’ve started carrying since I met you, and I’ll be fine here.”

“Carrying?” He eyed her. “What prompted that?”

“My job. I see the bad things that can happen.” She had to fight off a shudder to keep from raising his concerns even more and maybe from letting her worry ramp back up too.

He kept his focus pinned to her. “You didn’t have your gun tonight.”

“It was here in my purse.” She held up her hands. “I know. I know. Fat lot of good it did me down here. But when I went upstairs, I didn’t think… I didn’t plan to fall asleep. I know better now, and I’ll be extra sure I have my gun with me at all times.”

“I still don’t like you being on your own here. I checked things out when I went to help Sierra. No security cameras. Zero. So even more of a reason not to stay here. And if you’re worried you’ll have to put up with me at my condo, don’t be. I’ll bunk with one of my brothers, and you can have my place all to yourself.”

She shook her head more vehemently than needed, and she didn’t like that either. She was over him, right? She shouldn’t let seeing him again impact her so much. She swallowed to level her emotions. “I can’t put you out of your place. Not on top of the protection and investigative services you’re providing.”

He took in a long breath, and she waited for it to whoosh out, but he let the air out in slow frustration. “What do you think protection services are?”

“I don’t…well… I didn’t really think about it.”

“Then let me tell you. One of us will be with you twenty-four/seven until this guy is caught. Except at the condo. Security for our building is top-notch, so you should be fine on your own there.”

“But I—we can’t.” She gestured between them and lowered her voice so Sierra couldn’t hear. “Can’t be together that much.”

“Why not?”

“Our history. It’s bound to be uncomfortable.”

Another breath, this one held before blowing out in hurricane force. “A little discomfort is worth it to make sure you’re safe.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan Sleeman

Susan Sleeman is the bestselling author of over fifty novels with more than one million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith . Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real.

In addition to writing, Susan also hosts TheSuspenseZone.com. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two terrific sons-in-law, and two adorable grandsons. To learn more about Susan’s books sign up for her monthly email that includes exclusive excerpts, giveaways, and other goodies.

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive the first four ebooks in the Nighthawk Security series!

Night Watch JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 24, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 31, 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

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Book Review: Love and the Silver Lining by Tammy L. Gray

About the Book:

This disaster may be just what she needed.

Darcy Malone's dreams of mission work are dashed on the eve of fulfilling them: The Guatemalan school she was going to teach at has closed, and she's already quit her job and given up her apartment. Stuck in her worst-case scenario, Darcy accepts an unexpected offer to move in with Bryson Katsaros's little sister, despite the years of distrust between her and Bryson, the lead singer in her best friend Cameron's band. But as she meets those close to Bryson, Darcy quickly discovers there is more to him than just his bad-boy persona.

Needing to find a purpose for all her sudden free time, Darcy jumps at the chance to care for and train a group of unruly dogs, with the aim of finding each a home before their bereaved owner returns them to animal control. But it's Darcy herself who will encounter a surprising rescue in the form of love, forgiveness, and learning to let go.

Read an excerpt from Love and the Silver Lining on the publisher's website.

My Thoughts:

Love and the Silver Lining by Tammy L. Gray blends women’s fiction with romance in a story of disillusionment, deconstruction, and unexpected love. When Darcy Malone’s plans for mission work in Guatemala fall through, her life changes dramatically, forcing her to grapple with a new, uncomfortable reality.

Perhaps my favorite aspect of Love and the Silver Lining is the depth of Darcy’s struggles. She shares her hurt and disappointment from a first person POV that gives the reader an intimate peek into her thoughts. Because Darcy faces many difficulties in quick succession, she often feels her feelings without working through them, leaving her frustrated and stagnant. Laced into this season of her life, a budding romance simultaneously brings sweetness to her life and necessitates difficult decisions. Darcy’s forward motion and personal growth came slowly in a manner that made her journey authentic and inspirational.

Love and the Silver Lining lands as the second installment in Tammy L. Gray’s A State of Grace series, but works well as a stand-alone. Although this novel didn’t catch my attention until several chapters in when Darcy started working with the dogs, I very much enjoyed the story and am looking forward to the next 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: Unknown by Vanessa Hall

About the Book:

He knew there was a cost. He just didn’t know how great it’d be.

Gabriel Kelly returned to Russia for one reason—to bury his parents. After ten years in the United States, he hadn’t expected to return to his childhood home in the face of tragedy. However, after short days in Moscow, he begins to consider if the same call that cost his parents’ lives is now upon him.

Sofia Rykova’s dreams finally came true when she became a principal soloist with the Bolshoi Ballet. One night, though, an old crush walks back into her life, making her wonder if there is more to life than ballet. Gabe Kelly is just as she remembered, just as she longed for—yet religion stands between them.

Unknown to Gabe and Sofia, danger lurks closer than either would have guessed. The deaths of Gabe’s parents grow more suspicious by the day, and Gabe and Sofia are drawn into the midst of a plot neither can escape. Will obedience to God’s call—in spite of their fears and desires—result in a price too steep to bear?

Purchase at: Amazon.

Excerpt:

Life rolled on. Nothing stopped, nothing changed … even when his world had slammed to a jarring halt.

The city lights pricked through the dark of night, a night that threatened to swallow up the entirety of the city. Cars slid by on the street below the hotel, each carrying a passenger to his destination.

A demanding buzz cut through the silence, and a sigh gathered as Gabe turned from the window. The phone he’d thrown on the bed had been blowing up these last few days. Stupid thing.

His sigh broke free as he pivoted back to the window. Probably Mr. Mathers inquiring about another client. Gabe should just pick up the phone and tell the man he was on leave. He was not working right now. He couldn’t.

Yet Mr. Mathers didn’t understand that some things came before work. That making a profit was not the most important thing in life.

Oh, there was so much more to life—and it’d taken this to make him realize it.

He’d been sitting in his new desk chair at the office, printers humming nearby, keyboards ticking from each cubicle. He’d just gotten off the phone with a would-be client, and the phone had rung again. He hadn’t even glanced at the number.

“Gabriel? I—I have some very bad news.”

The Russian words had jolted him, had churned the coffee in his stomach. “What is it, Sergei?”

The head deacon of Mom and Dad’s church plant had paused for long moments. Then his words had traveled those thousands of miles and shattered Gabe’s world.

“Your parents were found dead early this morning.”

Somehow, he hadn’t lost his breakfast on the desk. Somehow, he’d mumbled something to Sergei, assured him he’d be on the next plane to Moscow.

Then he’d hung up, shaking uncontrollably as he’d choked back sobs that would grip him short minutes later.

It’d been two years since the week he’d visited Mom and Dad, and only this year, he’d gotten enough vacation from work to plan another trip.

Now they were dead. Dead.

The funeral this afternoon had sealed it. Sergei’s reddened eyes and hearty but mute embrace spoke more than words. Every churchgoer, grasping his hands, pressing kisses to his cheeks, offering tearful apologies, drove the reality home.

He’d never see Dad again. Never see Mom again.

They were gone.

He lowered his head, his fists clenching as the gaping hole tore at his chest. Tears burned the backs of his eyes—as if he hadn’t cried enough in the past three days.

“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live …”

“Yes.” The word rasped over his raw throat. Yes, he had to believe that. Had to cling to that, even when everything else was so muddled.

He dragged in a breath. They were gone … but they were alive. Mom and Dad were in heaven with the Savior they’d served so faithfully. And he would see them again, just not on this earth.

That was comfort. That was truth. But even those faithful promises didn’t stop the questions.

Why? Why would God take such good people? Hadn’t they given their lives to His service and risked so much for the Russian people for more than two decades?

And they’d died in a random burglary?

He turned from the window, swiping at his grainy eyes. “Help me, Lord. I don’t know …”

He sank onto the bed. He didn’t know anything. How was he supposed to function when his parents lay in their graves—lay in this cold city they’d sacrificed so much for—with two bullet holes in their bodies?

He groaned and buried his face in his hands.

The Bible said the Lord worked all things out for the good of those who loved Him.

Even this?

His throat seized, and his eyes went back to stinging. Dad had preached a sermon on the topic the last time Gabe had been in the city.

“There’s going to come a time when you and I look around us, and we’re not going to understand. But the Lord understands—and He will use every situation, good or bad, for our good. For His glory. And that is why we never despair, why we never fear, and why we always hold firm to our faithful Lord.”

Dad’s voice, deeper than his own and filled with so much compassion, so much love, so much faith.

Mom and Dad wouldn’t be doubting God’s Ways. Dad would be praying. Mom would be singing a hymn. And they’d tell him to do the same.

Yet they couldn’t tell him a thing.

About the Author:

Vanessa Hall is an author, musician, and homeschool graduate. Most days, she is reading, writing, or practicing the violin—or trying to find time for all three pursuits. Currently, she is working toward gaining a degree in instrumental music education. Unknown is her debut novel. Above all, she is a sinner saved and held fast by the abounding grace of Jesus Christ.

Sunday, August 22, 2021

Book Review: Under the Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse

About the Book:

When Ellie Fields accepts a teaching job in a tiny Louisiana town deep in bayou country in 1949, she knows her life will change--but she could never imagine just how dramatically.

Though rightfully suspicious of outsiders, who have threatened both their language and their unique culture, most of the residents come to appreciate the young and idealistic schoolteacher, and she's soon teaching just about everyone, despite opposition from both the school board and a politician with ulterior motives. Yet it's the lessons Ellie herself will learn--from new friends, a captivating Cajun fisherman, and even a legendary white alligator haunting the bayou--that will make all the difference.

Take a step away from the familiar and enter the shadowy waters of bayou country for a story of risk, resilience, and romance.

Read an excerpt from Under the Bayou Moon on the publisher's site.

My Thoughts:

Under the Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse reeled me into Bernadette, Louisiana, a town with vibrant Cajun culture and a mysterious bayou. The bayou practically rated as a character with its prominence throughout the story and the rich descriptions of it. Character thoughts and actions balanced well with this immersion into the setting, and the novel held my interest even when the plot meandered or seemed to shift focus.

I especially liked the ties of friendship in Under the Bayou Moon. Ellie, Raphe, and Heywood are tight-knit by shared experiences. Each character grows and accomplishes goals that better both themselves and their community. In the background, friendships such as Remy and Footsie reflect the inclusiveness that this story strives for. Whether it is prejudice against speaking French or racism based on skin color, the main characters bind together in acceptance and solidarity with one another.

In conclusion, Under the Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse deals with complex social issues in a lush setting that will likely appeal to historical fiction readers.

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: The Call of the Watchmen by Glenda Jackson

About the Book

Book: The Call of the Watchmen

Author: Glenda Jackson

Genre: RELIGION / Christianity/ Pentecostal & Charismatic

Release date: August 10, 2021

God is prophetically speaking to us today while performing signs and wonders in the last days. These movements of the Spirit are a continuation of the signs, wonders, and other supernatural works God has done in the past to demonstrate His power and glory. Through miracle testimonies, faith-building teachings, and remarkable accounts from her personal family heritage—including miracles in the life of noted healing evangelist Maria Woodworth-Etter—Glenda Jackson shows how God can work powerfully in your life, bringing to pass what He has ordained for us and His purposes in the world. Discover what it means to be a prophetic watchman and a vessel for God’s glory in these momentous days before Christ’s return.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Glenda Underwood Jackson is a powerful prophetess and healing evangelist. She moves in signs, wonders, and miracles to glorify Jesus. Since 1974, Glenda has been a missionary evangelist. Her primary ministry focus for over thirty years was Native Americans, ministering to many tribes throughout California, Nevada, and Arizona.

Glenda comes from a Church of God background. Her father, C. L. Underwood, was a healing evangelist who saw many great miracles in his services. Her great-aunt was Maria Woodworth-Etter (1844–1924), whom some considered to have had one of the most powerful evangelistic ministries of modern times.

On December 29, 2007, on her birthday, Glenda had a powerful angelic visitation from the Lord in which she was told that doors would open to her to major ministries throughout the United States. Since then, doors have swung wide open to her ministry. Glenda has ministered at several Fire conferences for evangelist Benny Hinn, at King Jesus International Ministry with Apostle Guillermo Maldonado, and at the World Convention of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International. She has also appeared on Sid Roth’s It’s Supernatural! Glenda has ministered in numerous churches, conferences, and camp meetings in the United States, Europe, and Africa. Her ministry is marked by her accurate prophetic words. Glenda often says in her response to her ministry, “I’m nothing; it’s all God.”

More from Glenda

God is prophetically speaking to us as He works signs and wonders in these end times. Discover what it means to be a prophetic watchman and a vessel for God’s glory in these momentous days before Christ’s return.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 20

Texas Book-aholic, August 21

Beauty in the Binding, August 22 (Spotlight)

Inklings and notions, August 23

For Him and My Family, August 24

Splashes of Joy, August 25 (Spotlight)

deb’s Book Review, August 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 26

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 27

Artistic Nobody , August 28 (Spotlight)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 29

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 30

Simple Harvest Reads, August 31 (Spotlight)

Cats in the Cradle Blog, September 1

Fiction Book Lover, September 2 (Spotlight)

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, September 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Glenda is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card and 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/1141e/the-call-of-the-watchmen-celebration-tour-giveaway

Thursday, August 19, 2021

Book Spotlight & Author Interview: Creator's Call by Costas Ioannou

About the Book:

Eighteen-year-old Edward has been raised with tales of distant lands where dragons and other strange beasts dwell. He dreams of one day joining the Keepers, who fight against them to keep the land safe; however, life’s obstacles keep him firmly rooted in the small town of Cadestone.

When seventeen-year-old June comes passing through, following a dream given to her by the Creator of the universe, Edward’s life is about to change. Pursued by a demon-possessed man, the two of them are forced to flee to areas where dragons and monsters are not just tales but reality.

June and Edward eventually discover what the demons want from them. Is it possible to defeat this evil and save everyone from the darkness that threatens their lands?

Purchase at: Amazon.

Excerpt:

The familiar metallic taste of blood and dirt mingled in Edward’s mouth as he hit the ground. He winced in pain, then spat the distasteful mixture and wiped his lips. Naman had been a little too rough with him this time. For an older man, his trainer could still fight better than most soldiers. Edward brushed the dust from his arms and knees as he rose, pulling a twig out of his curly brown hair. He tucked his dragon-tooth necklace into his shirt and took a step forward, his body aching beneath tattered clothes. Gazing down, he noticed a speck of blood dotting the material above his left knee.

“Hurry up, lad. Let’s get on with it,” Naman yelled, swinging his wooden sword in a figure-eight pattern, as if trying to loosen his arm.

Edward peered around for his own practice sword and picked it up, dragging the tip on the soft dirt, leaving a wavy line behind it. He gripped the wooden hilt tighter, lifting his weapon up in front of him, his lips curling upward.

“What are you grinning at, boy?” Naman barked.

“I almost had you that last time.”

Naman’s lips tightened. “Almost? If I were a varnack, you’d be dead.”

Edward nodded, preparing to attack, but then hesitated. It would be dark soon. “I think I’m done for today.”

Naman scrunched his eyebrows. “You’re done when I say you’re done.”

“I need to get to work,” Edward protested. “Bron will have me fired if I’m late again.”

“Pffft, Bron.” Naman spat out the words. “Why you insist on going back to that fat tavern owner, I’ll never know. Just quit and head south already.”

“You know I can’t.”

“You can. You just choose not to.” Naman sighed and tossed his sword under a tree. “Come inside before you go. I have something to give you.” He strode toward the house without waiting for a response, his muscular arms swinging with each step.

About the Author:

Costas Ioannou lives in Cyprus, with his wife and two daughters. He enjoys horse riding, and spending time with his family. Above all however, he is a follower of Jesus Christ and does his best to glorify God through his daily life and writing.

Author Interview:

Q: What was the inspiration behind Creator’s Call?

Costas: Over the years that I have been a Christian, God has taught me much and given me insight and understanding of His ways as described in the scriptures. I wanted to share these things with others through a fantasy adventure. I have always been fascinated with dragons and other elements of fantasy and this was a way of combining the two. I want everything I do to glorify God and so writing Creator’s Call was a perfect opportunity to do this. I hope that the readers of this novel will be strengthened and encouraged in their walk with Christ as well as entertained.

Q: How long did it take you to write this novel?

Costas: Creator’s Call took me about two and a half years from start to finish. This is due to two main factors: lack of experience, and health issues with my hands and voice that made writing difficult. God however used this time to help me improve in my writing, which made the end result that much better.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote from this novel?

Costas: I’m not sure I do, however this quote from the character David in chapter 9 is one that I like:

“The greatest calling anyone could ever have is to love. To love the Creator with all that we are and to love those around us. If you do nothing else with your life except follow these two things, you would have lived a worthy life.”

Q: What do you hope readers take away from Creator’s Call?

Costas: There are many messages within Creator’s Call. Some people after reading it have told me that forgiveness stood out to them. Another person told me that love was a dominant message and another that it was our need for God. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will highlight the right message for each person.

Q: Would you share something about yourself that most readers would not know?

Costas: For a very long time before writing this book I had read no other books except my Bible. It was only after deciding to write Creators Call that I decided to start reading fantasy again in order to familiarize myself once again with the genre.

Q:What are you reading now?

Costas: Right now I am reading a book titled Shepherding Your child’s heart by Tedd Tripp. I am also listening to an audiobook called Skyward by Brandon Sanderson. It also goes without saying that I am reading the Bible.

Q: How many bookcases are in your home?

Costas: We have several shelves filled with books, but nothing too crazy.

Q: What do you like to do when you are not writing?

Costas: Prayer and spending time with God is a priority which fuels all my other activities. I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughters as well as horse riding. I encourage friends in their walk with God and also do YouTube videos. Between work and all of that, there isn’t much time left.

Video Trailer:

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Book Spotlight: Coming Home to Mercy by Michelle De Bruin

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Coming Home to Mercy

(Coming Home Series #1)

By Michelle De Bruin

Christian Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 251 Pages

August 17, 2021 by Scrivenings Press LLC

A society woman leaves her comfortable lifestyle so that she can help her daughter adjust to the arrival of twin sons in a small town where the courageous doctor teaches her about taking risks.

Wealthy and sociable Margaret Millerson has always thought of her brother’s Chicago mansion as her home. But when she receives the telephone call that her daughter has given birth to twins three weeks ahead of the expected due date, Margaret must leave her comfortable home, her family, and her friends to travel out of state. While she is helping her daughter care for the infants, Margaret becomes reacquainted with the town’s doctor, Matthew Kaldenberg.

Dr. Matthew Kaldenberg stays busy caring for the health of the citizens of his small town. His profession offers him daily practice in defeating death, his greatest enemy. During the twenty years since losing his own wife and baby in childbirth, Matthew has saved his money for the purchase of a flying machine. But when Matthew takes Margaret for flights on his biplane, he learns that his dreams of rising above the griefs and losses of his past come with a cost. He doesn’t want to lose the trust of the people he cares about most, or the chance at a relationship with Margaret.

Both Matthew and Margaret must make difficult decisions to hold on to the love they have discovered. Will Matthew’s heart recover from sorrow? Will Margaret find her true home?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository

Excerpt

“Margaret, I have something I must tell you. I’ve kept it to myself for a very long time, but I can no longer conceal it. You see, I’ve fallen in love with you. It began on the evening of your daughter’s wedding and has grown ever since. I loved you the moment I first saw you. Now that you are back in town, I find my feelings to be even stronger than when we first met all those months ago.” His chest collapsed. What a long speech for a man who rarely shared anything but the facts if he could absolutely help it.

A pink glow stained Margaret’s cheeks. “Oh, Matthew. Can you believe, I’ve felt the same way?”

“You have?” The thought had flitted through his mind, but he hadn’t dared to take it seriously.

She nodded. “Yes. I’ve loved you ever since the time we spent together at Karen’s reception. I went home to Chicago with you in my heart. Not a day has gone by when I don’t think of you or wish for another evening with you.”

“And now I’ve given it to you.” He reached for her hand and held it.

“Not only did I get to spend this evening with you, but I’ve gotten you all to myself.” She glanced at him like a child might who’d confessed an act of wrongdoing.

She had no reason to feel guilty with him. He’d wanted time alone with her too. “Do you think, would it be possible? I mean, I tell you these things because I would like to begin to court you.”

A hint of sadness entered her gaze. “I don’t know that I’m ready.”

“I’m sorry if I’ve rushed you.”

About the Author

Michelle De Bruin grew up in Southern Iowa and graduated from Eddyville High School. These beautiful memories of childhood spent on her family’s farm are the inspiration to the setting in the books of the Tomorrow series.

After high school, Michelle received an Associate’s Degree in Office Management from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. She returned to the family farm and later married Tom De Bruin.

Tom and Michelle and their two teenage sons, Mark and John, live in Pella where Michelle works as the Spiritual Services Facilitator for Christian Opportunity Center. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and in Religion with a Christian Ministries emphasis from Central College in Pella, Iowa.

In 2015, Michelle began writing and joined the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) where she discovered that the stories she wrote for fun might actually amount to something. She finished her manuscript for Hope for Tomorrow and eventually found a home for it with a small publisher of Christian fiction.

Characters that bring to life the delights of farm and small town living, whispers of Dutch heritage, and Christian faith make Michelle’s stories distinct.

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a copy of Coming Home to Mercy (print if US, ebook if outside the US) and a $25 Amazon Gift Card (open internationally)

Ends August 25, 2021

ENTER HERE

Friday, August 13, 2021

Book Review: Unexpected Love Novella Collection

About the Book:

Around the turn of the century, matches were made for all sorts of reasons--whether to keep a family together or simply to make ends meet. But love has a way of turning up in the most unexpected places! With four historical romance stories in one, this fun anthology will sweep you from the dance floors of aristocracy to the hearths of country living, leading to love through the most unusual circumstances.

Ashbrook Abbey by Heather Chapman
Though decidedly against marriage, when Ambrose Notley discovers it may win him his uncle's good opinion (and his inheritance), he marries the orphaned Kate Mowbray. But will Kate be able to break down the walls that Ambrose has built around himself?

First Comes Marriage by Paula Kremser
When Letty's sister and husband unexpectedly die, a greedy uncle threatens to steal custody of the children and their money. David, Letty's brother-in-law, marries Letty in the hopes of retaining custody of their niece and nephew. But will this love for show become something deeper?

The Price of Her Heart by Mandi Ellsworth
When Faith McKinney witnesses a crime she shouldn't have seen, she's forced into hiding to protect her own life.As part of this, her uncle arranges her marriage to small-town sheriff Geoffrey. But when the men searching for her find Geoffrey as well, will he be able to protect her?

Beauty and the Beholder by Ashtyn Newbold
When a marriage arranged by chance brings Fanny and Percy together, they quickly learn that clashing personalities and battles of wit are not a recipe for a happy match. How could a marriage between quick enemies ever result in something such as love? But fate has a way of bringing even the most unlikely hearts together...

👉 Cedar Fort Books is currently offering physical copies of Unexpected Love: A Marriage of Convenience Anthology on sale for $1.99. Click here to purchase. Be sure to check the price. I'm not sure how long the sale lasts. 👈

My Thoughts:

Unexpected Love: A Marriage of Convenience Anthology features novellas by Heather Chapman, Paula Kremser, Mandi Ellsworth, and Ashtyn Newbold. I have enjoyed full-length novels by Ashtyn Newbold and gave this collection a try based on her name and my fondness for the marriage-of-convenience trope. I was pleased with the diverse subject matter and unique settings, but I wished for more character development in each story. All the stories held plenty of romantic potential and worked within the novella form constraints to produce the anticipated happily ever after.

Unexpected Love: A Marriage of Convenience Anthology will likely appeal to fans of clean and/or Christian romance who enjoy novellas. The Price of Her Heart by Mandi Ellsworth stands as my favorite story in this collection and I’ll be looking for additional novels by that author.

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.

Author Interview & Giveaway: The Dollmaker's Daughter by Izzy James

About the Book

Book: The Dollmaker’s Daughter

Author: Izzy James

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: July 16, 2021

Forgetful scientist Simon Morgan lost his chance with Amity Archer ten years ago. He knows there is no hope…until a sea captain trades a meal for an ancient stone reputed to have the power to give him his heart’s desire. Immediately after pocketing the stone, Simon runs into Amity. Did the ancient artifact cause this chance encounter or was it mere coincidence?

Like her favorite travel writer Mrs. Peabody, Amity Archer yearns for adventure, but she’s horrified when her father asks Simon Morgan to escort her on her first real adventure.

With Amity’s Aunt Clementine as a buffer between them, will Simon be able to prove that his love for Amity is real? Can Amity show Simon that her love for him has nothing to do with a so-called magical rock?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Izzy James lives in coastal Virginia with her fabulous husband in a house brimming with books.

More from Izzy

I am a Geographer by degree. So maps and the shapes of the earth fascinate me. It keeps me looking at the ground. Where I live in Virginia we still travel the imprint of colonial roads. Former villages have been swallowed by large urban areas, but the land is still there. Amity Archer travels these roads on the adventure to love in The Dollmaker’s Daughter.

It makes The Dollmaker’s Daughter special to me. I have traveled the roads Amity and Simon cover many, many times. The research for this book kept me up nights reading true accounts of traveler and taverns in colonial times.

Author Interview

Q: In what setting do you enjoy writing the most?

Izzy: I like to write inside. It’s quiet and I’m in front of a big window facing a field full of my neighbor’s cows.

Q: What are you reading now?

Izzy: I’m usually reading two or three things at a time. Right now, I’m reading An Officer of Very Extraordinary Merit: Charles Porterfield and the American War for Independence by Michael Cecere, The Compleat Rancher by Russel H. Bennett, and I just finished His Holiday Prayer by Tina Radcliff.

Q: How many bookshelves are in your home?

Izzy: Ten and counting! We just moved so I downsized quite a bit, but since moved I’ve bought a few more books, so…

Q: Who is an author you would recommend to anyone and everyone?

Izzy: Regina Scott. Her books are light and witty and just plain well done. I have not read a bad one.

Q: What do you like to do when you aren't writing?

Izzy: READ. Knit, spin, and sew.

Q: Where can readers find out more about you and your novel?

Izzy: I have a website: echull.com. I’m on Facebook, Instgram, MeWe, and Gab.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 7

By The Book, August 8 (Author Interview)

Connect in Fiction, August 8

Inklings and notions, August 9

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, August 10

Abba’s Prayer Princess, August 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 12

Beauty in the Binding, August 13

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 13

For Him and My Family, August 14

Texas Book-aholic, August 15

Connie’s History Classroom, August 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 17

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 18

deb’s Book Review, August 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Izzy is giving away the grand prize package of an eBook copy of The Dollmaker’s Daughter and a tea cup!!

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/111b4/the-dollmaker-s-daughter-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Set in Stone by David James Warren

Set in Stone Just Read Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Set in 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: Set in Stone
Series: The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #4
Author: David James Warren
Publisher: TriStone Media
Release Date: August 10, 2021
Genre: Time Travel Detective Series

Rembrandt Stone is on the case of a serial killer. But when the killer finds him first, he puts the one person Rembrandt loves in his cross hairs. Now, Rembrandt must outwit time to save the people he loves.

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

BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

CONNECT WITH REMBRANDT STONE: Website | Instagram

EXCERPT

Maybe it’s the exhaustion that makes me sleep, or Eve’s warmth, but I tumble into sweet oblivion.

I land hard, however, in the middle of a familiar dream. You know the one—I’m on the ice in the middle of a lake. It’s the dead of winter, everything crisp and brown, cattails and marshland that edges the lake stiff under the brutal cold.

I can nearly feel it too—the cold that seeps into my pores, turns my body frozen. I’m shivering.

The ice is clear, thick and scarred with the carcasses of birds and branches caught in the freeze. A slight wind bullies the snow off it, catching in my eyes. They water.

And the wind. It’s moaning, a deep howl behind me, as if gathering.

In it, I hear a voice. Rembrandt.

I feel I know that voice, but I can’t place it as I stand there, the wind filling my ears.

It’s then I hear a gunshot. A sharp report that scatters birds, spears the air.

Beneath my feet, a fissure has opened. I look down and the crack is webbing out.

Run.

I scrabble over the ice toward shore, my rubber boots slipping, and I fall.

I catch myself on the ice with familiar red mittens. The ice spiders out in fractures under my grip. I scramble to my feet and keep running. But the shoreline has slipped away, reset.

I’m further than when I started. My breathing is labored now, and as the ice opens behind me, the water black and lethal, I am screaming.

Help!

Because I know if I don’t keep running, the water will find me.

Pull me under.

I’ll disappear and never be found.

“Rem!”

The voice lifts from the shore and I thrash around, trying to find it.

“Rembrandt!”

I’ve fallen again, bracing myself on the ice, and look back.

The ice breaks open beneath me, and—

“Rem, wake up!”

The voice, a hand on my arm frees me and I gasp awake, my heart thundering, a cold sweat sheeting my body.

Eve is leaning over me, one elbow on the narrow mattress. “You’re dreaming.”

I press a fist to my forehead and stare at the ceiling. A thin shadow of golden-red light streaks across the ceiling through the blinds.

“Which dream was it?”

I look over at her. “The ice.”

She nods. “The one where you never get to shore.”

So, my demons are at least consistent across timelines in their torment.

© TriStone Media

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, David Curtis Warren

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

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Set in Stone and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 10, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 17, 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

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.