The Girl with Fire in Her Veins By Dawn Ford + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Girl with Fire in Her Veins by Dawn Ford, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Girl with Fire in Her Veins
Series: Firebird #2
Author: Dawn Ford
Publisher: Expanse Books
Release Date: April 25, 2023
Genre: YA Fantasy

Former servant girl Tambrynn struggles with her new firebird abilities, especially the internal fire she cannot control. So, she, along with her Watcher Lucas, and her grandfather Bennett journey to a hidden mountain keep to find the answers she seeks before she sets the kingdom aflame. 

But there’s a new dragon who’s targeting Tambrynn, a mergirl who wishes to manipulate her, and the froggen king, Siltworth, who hasn’t forgotten that Tambrynn destroyed his watery reign. When her father, the evil mage Thoron, attacks someone she loves, Tambrynn’s group is separated and she has to face another powerful foe alone. 

Is she strong enough to withstand the deluge? Or will she drown in the fire and the flood?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

My Interview With Dawn Ford

1) What genre of books did you grow up reading?
I read mostly fantasy, though my mother and aunts shared Harlequin romances and so
when I became a teenager I read those as well. My favorites were always fantasy, though.

2) Is it hard to come up with names of characters or places in your fictional world?
I love finding names for characters. Take my froggen character, Siltworth. I wanted a
snobby slickish character you couldn’t trust any further than you could throw a car. I think it fit
him perfectly.

3) What are the challenges of integrating a faith thread into a fantasy novel?
My whole intent is to put out something that I would’ve read as a teenager—long before I
became a Christian. If it’s too in your face, I wouldn’t have read it. I want to imbue a sense of
hope and light while subtly pointing to God. The good thing about that is my books are also
something that Christians can read without fear of the content.

4) Where do you enjoy writing and where do you find inspiration?
Nature is a huge inspiration for me as there are still so many mysteries that have yet to be
revealed to us, and what is revealed is so incredible to think about. Everywhere I go, I picture the
stories that went with the setting, or an object, or a life. It’s really endless when it comes to
inspiration.

5) If you could cosplay any of your characters, which one would you be?
I would love to become my troll princess, Horra Fyd, from my Woodencloak series. She’s
such a tomboy, has an amazing head of curly, red hair, and her warts are magnificent. I think it
would be amazing and appealingly fierce to dress up as her.

More Books in this Series

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About the Author

Dawn Ford writes fantastical YA stories with a fairy tale flair. The Girl With Stars in Her Eyes, formerly Kingdom Come, won the 2016 ACFW Genesis Award for the Speculative genre. Dawn also has a middle-grade twisted fairytale Woodencloak, which is the first of four books in her Band of Unlikely Heroes series. Dawn lives in Iowa with her husband.

Connect with Dawn by visiting dawnfordauthor.com to follow her on social media and sign up for newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(5) winners will receive a signed paperback copy of The Girl with Fire in Her Veins plus a set of either star or flame themed Color Street nail strips chosen at random!

(2) winners will receive a signed copy of The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes along with The Girl with Fire in Her Veins nail strips

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 29, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 5, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Israel: Beauty, Light, And Luxury By Tara-Leigh Cobble

Israel: Beauty, Light, and Luxury

by Tara-Leigh Cobble

Photography by Richard Van De Water

Publisher: Bethany House

ISBN: 9780764240348

As a person who thoroughly enjoys The Bible Recap, my interest was piqued when I saw this new book Israel: Beauty, Light, and Luxury. I received this book for review thanks for Bethany House.

Summary:

Come discover the land of Jesus. It will transform the way you read your Bible.

Israel abounds with beauty. It is vibrant and thriving, stacked with delicacies and flooded with light. The desert is blooming and people are flourishing--just as Scripture promised. To the surprise of many, Israel is far more than deserts and ruins.

Pairing 31 rich devotionals with 350 gorgeous photos of Israel today, Tara-Leigh Cobble, creator of The Bible Recap, takes you on an unforgettable journey through the Holy Land. Since 2014, she has led boutique teaching tours of the country, learning its landscapes and stories. Glimpse Israel's features, flora, and people, all while making deeper connections with its biblical stories and truth.

My Review:

If I asked you what you think Israel looks like, what immediately comes to mind? For me, I think of a lot of brown desert, tan colored homes, and lots of old sites from Biblical times. While I think a lot of that is true, Tara-Leigh gives us a vibrant, stunning tour around the country!

When the book arrived, I was so surprised at how large it is! I didn't realize it's a coffee table book! Here's to actually wishing I had a coffee table. For now it'll be a side table book.

The photographer did an incredible job of bringing the country to life through his shots. I can imagine that they poured over thousands of photos he'd taken to get all of the "right" ones for this book. I have looked through the book several times since it arrived and find something new and beautiful each time. The details the photographer captured are gorgeous.

I think some of my favorite photos throughout the book include water or flowers, BUT for some reason, there's a photo of a man who is rolling a cigarette and I just want to squish his face because he's absolutely adorable. Get the book, you'll see what I mean!

The books starts in Joppa and uses Acts 10: 1-23 as a reference. Tara-Leigh gives an explanation of what life was like there and then explains the photo(s). As you move through the book (and the Bible) she also has various Scripture. For example, about a fourth of the way through the book there's a spread of some incredible looking food and she shares Deuteronomy 8:9. The book ends with the Garden Tomb. She and Richard really bring to life the various locations of Biblical reference.

At the end of the book there's a Photo Index, which I was so appreciative of. They didn't clutter all of the pages with text. We get to soak in the beauty of each photo. I don't think I'll ever get enough of this book and it makes me want to go to Israel even more now that I've seen what I'm missing!

About the Author:

Tara-Leigh Cobble's (www.taraleighcobble.com) is the creator and host of the daily The Bible Recap podcast, which has garnered more than 230 million downloads. She is also the founder of D-Group, an international network of more than 300 discipleship and Bible study groups that meet each week, and the host of a daily radio feature called The God Shot. Tara-Leigh lives in Dallas, Texas.

A Path To Acceptance By Lisa M. James + GIVE AWAY

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Path To Acceptance by Lisa M. James, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I received the book as part of the tour!

About the Book

Title: A Path to Acceptance
Series: The Prodigal Woman Series
Author: Lisa M. James
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: May 19, 2023
Genre: Christian Romance / Fantasy

Wanton. Tainted. Immoral. These were all words that could describe Penelope. After being forced into a world of harlotry to cover her parents' debts, Penny learned how to survive without feeling. When a mysterious man approaches Penny with an offer to free her from her situation, Penny soon discovers that leaving her tavern could not rid her of the reputation she gained as a harlot. Would anyone be able to see beyond her tainted past?

Abandoned by his father as a child, Ryland refuses to depend on anyone but himself. Surviving as a mercenary for wealthy landowners, he accepts an assignment to free a harlot from a life of slavery. Frustrated when he is forced to take her under his care, Ryland discovers there is more to this harlot than her beauty. Can her unshakeable faith bring him back to a Redeemer he has long since rejected?  

Discover the story of a tainted woman in A Path to Acceptance.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books in this Series

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Book Excerpt:

“But you do call upon the Redeemer!” I countered. “I thought I was respecting your

beliefs, but I don’t think you even know what you believe! You feel the Redeemer can redeem

everyone but you!” The words came out of my mouth suddenly, surprising her and myself. “How

is someone like me, who has wandered so far, supposed to believe in the Redeemer, when you,

who loves him so thoroughly, refuses to believe that she can be fully redeemed and fully

accepted? He has extracted you from that life of harlotry and your heart refuses to accept it,

Penny! You refuse to be healed! Even now you think you have nothing to offer but your body!”

Her face contorted in grief and I regretted the harshness in my tone. “Let this go,

Ryland,” she said firmly. “I beg you. I am not your concern.”

She turned and left, heading in the opposite direction than the tents we came through. I

cursed myself for aggravating her. I cursed myself more for wanting to chase after her, hold her

against me, and beg her forgiveness.

About the Author

Lisa M. James is a Romantic Fantasy and Christian Fantasy author. Her  novels have made the Amazon Best Sellers list for numerous categories, including: Fairy Tale Fantasy, Sword and Sorcery Fantasy, Christian Fantasy, and Religious Romance. She is committed to creating fantastical worlds with clean romances and diverse female leads. When not writing, Lisa can most often be found watching Disney movies or enjoying homemade chai. 

Connect with Lisa by visiting lisamjames.com to follow her on social media and sign up for newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of A Path to Acceptance & a Vera Bradley Crossbody bag (plum pansies print)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 22, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 29, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

JustRead Buzz Blitz + Giveaway

Welcome to the Buzz Blitz celebrating 5 years of buzzing about books with JustRead Publicity Tours!

In the fall of 2019 I somehow ran across JustRead Publicity Tours. I know it was on Instagram, and I had to find out more about what they were doing! I'm sure they were touring a book I was already interested in and that's what piqued my interest.

Now, I'll be honest. When I signed up to be a host I had no idea what I was doing. In fact, I asked Beth SO many questions I thought they were going to stop choosing me to be on any tours. HA! Beth was incredibly kind and answered every, single question I had.

I started signing up for all of the tours that I was interested in and I was HOOKED! I did the bookstagram tours, social tours, blog tours, and review tours. I loved doing them all! There were lots of books that I wasn't interested in, but there were lots of other hosts who were interested in them. Just like anything, not every book or type of tour is for everyone.

Well, let me tell you how being a host turned into a JOB!!! In 2021 I had reached out to Carrie to inquire about any available positions. Sadly, they didn't have any. I stayed with my other job and then in 2022 we both decided it was time to split ways. Want to see God in action? The VERY last day of my other job, I received an email from Beth asking me to apply to an open position that had become available since Rachel was leaving. Seriously, I was shocked!! I went through the whole interview process and started with JustRead in January of this year.

I'll admit, it was very daunting at first. There was WAY more to learn that I could've imagined. I made numerous mistakes and figure I'll make more along the way. Beth and Carrie have been amazingly gracious as well as all of the hosts who have joined the tours since I started.

I am blessed indeed! Here's why you should join us!!

5 book bee perks

Blog tours, bookstagram tours, reviewer tours, etc. are different varieties of book campaigns. Readers who participate in JustRead campaigns are called hosts or book bees.

Various hosting options 

Readers buzz about books in a variety of ways through blog posts (spotlights, reviews, interviews, guest posts), social media posts (bookstagram, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter), and posted reviews (Goodreads, Bookbub, and retail sites). 

Reader community 

Although reading is usually a solitary pursuit, enjoy a richer experience with community! Get to know fellow readers through comments, posts, and book recommendations. 

Author interaction 

Want to personally thank authors for writing books that you love to read? Authors often visit campaign posts to say hello, express gratitude, and answer questions. 

Exclusive giveaways 

Book bees are eligible for exclusive giveaways through the host newsletter and the monthly host giveaway in addition to tour-wide and occasional host exclusive campaign giveaways. 

Access to sweet titles 

Last but not least, the honey of the book bee life is sweet reads! JustRead promotes titles within Christian, wholesome, or clean reads genres with content notes tailored to conservative values when sensitive issues are present.

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About JustRead 

JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC provides readers with a steady stream of promotional and reading selections from Christian, wholesome, and clean reads genres plus exclusive participant giveaway opportunities! By equipping readers with tools and support to create positive, impactful bookish content, JustRead advocates spreading the word (aka buzzing) about books that inspire and are written from a Christian perspective.

Connect with JustRead by following on social media @justreadtours, visiting justreadtours.com, or subscribing to host or blog post email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 gift card (winner's choice of Amazon, Baker Book House, Christianbook, or Walmart)!
(5) additional winners will receive one print book from the JustRead stash and a JustRead bookmark!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 8, 2023 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on May 15, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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

  

The Shifting Current By Dani Pettrey

The Shifting Current

by Dani Pettrey

Publisher: Gracie & Johnny Inc

Series: Coastal Guardian

ISBN: 979-8218021306

Having been a huge fan of the Coastal Guardians series, when Dani asked if I'd read her novella to go along with the story, I couldn't resist! She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

An elusive killer. A false identity. A deadly maze of lies.

When Coast Guard Investigative Service Special Agent LOGAN PERRY’s beloved grandfather is murdered, Logan races to his hometown of Cauldron Creek, New Mexico to investigate the murder. His teammate and friend, EMMY THORTON, insists on joining him. Not a good idea—not when he loves her, but carries a secret that he knows will tear them apart.

Emmy knows Logan will pursue the investigation no matter the cost, and she won’t let the man she loves plunge into a dangerous situation alone. She needs to be at his side, even if he believes friendship is her only reason for joining him.

What looks like a robbery gone wrong rapidly shifts, drawing Emmy and Logan into a dizzying maze where nothing is as it appears. Every lead slips through their fingers as threats against them grow deadlier at each turn. Having only each other to rely on, their love for one another deepens, but will they live long enough to admit their attraction to each other?

They’re in the killer’s sights. One wrong move puts their future together and their lives on the line.

My Review:

Small, but mighty! That's how I'd describe this novella. I think when we all finished the first three full length novels in the series we were wondering what happened with Logan and Emmy. You could cut their tension with a knife in the other stories, so I'm glad the author realized they needed their own!

And wowza did they get it! Logan has to deal with the tragedy of his grandfather being murdered, and Em goes along to help investigate who might have done it. They're leaving the East Coast and heading to New Mexico to find out what happened. Really, this story just doesn't let up. Whether it's the intensity of the killer, the investigation, or their relationship, it's non-stop nail biter from start to finish.

I enjoyed watching Logan and Em work together on the case. They make a great pair on the job and off. There was definitely a good amount of sizzle. I really appreciated that they both shared that their faith was of utmost importance and that they wanted to do everything to keep God first. I loved that Emmy mentions that she'd initially had concerns that Logan didn't share her faith. It's so great when authors know how to share a message with it being a natural part of a story while not seeming like it's being forced.

There was literally no way of knowing why he was killed, although we know who did it. Once the pieces of the puzzle start to fit together it all makes sense! Well done on keeping us in the dark.

While I'm not a fast reader, I read the book in a day! It's one of those stories you don't want to put down, and when you do, you wonder what you're missing.

About the Author:

Publishers Weekly and #1 Amazon bestselling author, Dani Pettrey has sold nearly 800,000 copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. 

Her novels stand out for their "wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters" (Publishers Weekly), "gripping storyline[s]," (RT Book Reviews), and "sizzling undercurrent of romance" (USA Today).

She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland. For more information about her novels, visit www.danipettrey.com.

In This Moment By Gabrielle Meyer

In This Moment

by Gabrielle Meyer

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Timeless

ISBN: 9780764239755

I was such a huge of When the Day Comes by Gabrielle, when I found out book two was coming out, I absolutely HAD to be on the launch team for In This Moment! Be sure to check out my review for the first book in the series. She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

Maggie inherited a gift from her time-crossing parents that allows her to live three separate lives in 1861, 1941, and 2001. Each night, she goes to sleep in one time period and wakes up in another. Until she turns twenty-one, when she will have to forfeit two of those lives--and everyone she knows in them--forever. 

In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of a senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she joins a hospital ship going to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she's a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon.

While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer. With so much on the line, how can Maggie choose just one life to keep and the rest to lose?

My Review:

If you were blown away by book one, sit down and buckle up because you're in for a ride! I think every reader of In This Moment is going to try and figure out what's going to happen. It's an exercise in futility. hahaha I started writing my theories on sticky notes because it was constantly changing with all of the clues the author gives!

We meet Margaret, Maggie, and Meg: one person, three different timelines. Those timelines contain so much history! The research that the author did must have been fascinating! I thoroughly loved Maggie in every timeline. There was one I was initially more fond of, then my allegiance switched at a certain point to another timeline. Annnnd there was one I wasn't so fond of. I'll just leave it at that. You won't get a peep out of me which ones they were. HA!

It's so hard to give a review about this story because there's so much that can be given away. We can't talk about the men (yes, plural) in each of her times. I liked one, then REALLY liked one, and one I never really warmed up to.

Maggie is a healer at heart. So, in every time period she lives as a health care provider in some capacity. This thread certainly plays a part in how she works on deciding which time she wants to live in forever. I love that those who know about her "gift" speak goodness to her so that she chooses the time that's not only best for her, but God's best for her.

The author makes a compelling reason in each of her times that will make the reader want to stay in a specific one. Whether it's her wonderful family, friends, or one of the men, it was truly impossible to know what she was going to choose. The sweetness of some of the moments with her family had me reaching for a tissue.

Seriously, there's just so much I want share and discuss, but mum's the word! Just know that you probably won't be able to guess the ending until you are either almost there or are there. Your heart will be pulled in numerous directions and you'll love almost every minute of it! Be prepared for some serious shockers, too! I have to say, in the end, I was completely and utterly satisfied.

How the author's going to do it again is beyond me, but I'm 100% ready for whatever she brings us!

About the Author:

Gabrielle Meyer (www.gabriellemeyer.com) has worked for state and local historical societies and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides along the banks of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota with her husband and four children. By day, she's a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and nonfiction filled with hope.

The Duke and the Lady Gardener By Alissa Baxter + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Duke and the Lady Gardener by Alissa Baxter, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Duke and the Lady Gardener
Series: The Grantham Girls #1
Author: Alissa Baxter
Publisher: ‎ Dragonblade Publishing
Release Date: May 2, 2023
Genre: Regency/Historical Romance (sweet, wholesome)

Love blossoms for a Lady Gardener when she robs a Duke. . . and then steals his heart.

Alexandra Grantham becomes Lady Robin Hood, stealing from the rich to provide for the local farm workers in the district. However, when her new neighbor, Mr. Robert Chanderly, unmasks her, Alexandra cannot hide her horror as he has it within his power to ruin her reputation. But, instead of blighting her social chances when they arrive in London, Robert decides to bring Alexandra into high fashion, and she effectively takes the ton by storm.  

 

Enemies abound in the Capital, however, causing trouble for Alexandra at every turn. So when an adversary threatens to reveal Alexandra’s dangerous secret, Robert must do everything within his power to defend the honor of the woman he loves—or lose the only lady he’s ever wished to make his wife.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Book Excerpt:

Alexandra straightened her spine as her coachman directed the horses

onto the main road. Soon they would be home, and she could put this

unfortunate incident behind her. However, as they came around the bend,

her eyes widened in horror as the coach she had just waylaid came into view.

“Slow down, Ben! The horses! He may recognize them.”

Her coachman glanced back at her. “Nay, miss, he won’t. They’re in

their traces, and I disguised their markings for the attack. Besides, he’d never

suspect a lady of being a highwayman, so he oughtn’t to look at your horses

with a leery eye.”

“Of course you’re right. Yet the impression I received of him was that he

is an uncommonly perceptive gentleman. I hoped he would have been well

on his way by now.” She chewed her bottom lip. “We must stay as far back as

possible until we turn off to Grantham Place.” Even as Ben drew on the

reins, the carriage in front of them came to a halt, blocking their way on the

narrow road.

As Ben halted as well, a groom jumped down from his perch to open the

coach door and let down the step. Alexandra held her breath as the dark

gentleman emerged. He stood immobile in the road for a while before

bowing politely in her direction. Alexandra inclined her head in response. He

was very tall, well over six feet, and his shoulders were uncommonly broad,

filling out his well-cut jacket impressively. Her wary gaze came to rest on the

strong line of his jaw and the uncompromising set of his mouth and chin.

All in all, it was a thoroughly disagreeable face.

Also Available

   

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About the Author

Alissa Baxter wrote her first Regency romance during her long university holidays. After travelling the world, she settled down to write her second Regency novel, which was inspired by her time living on a country estate in England. Alissa then published two chick lit novels, The Truth About Clicking Send and Receive(previously published as Send and Receive) and The Truth About Cats and Bees (previously published as The Blog Affair).

Many years later, Alissa returned to her favorite era. She writes Regency romances that feature women in trend-setting roles who fall in love with men who embrace their trailblazing ways… at least eventually. Alissa currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband and two sons.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $30 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 2, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 9, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US Amazon accounts only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

The Tapestry Of Grace By Kim Vogel Sawyer

the Tapestry of Grace

by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Publisher: Waterbrook

ISBN: 9780593194386

Having read the author's books in the past, when I saw this one come up as an option to review, I was excited to sign up. I received the ebook to help facilitate my review.

Summary:

When a group of Kansas women start a Frauenverein, a benevolent society devoted to aiding widows and orphans, life changes for more than just the hurting people they seek to help in this heartwarming romance inspired by historical events—from the bestselling author of Freedom’s Song.

With classes paused for the planting season, Alexandertol’s schoolteacher Augusta Dyck is glad for some meaningful work to occupy her time. She even knows exactly who their town’s benevolence society should help first: quiet, reserved widower Konrad Rempel and his young twin sons.

Konrad Rempel, however, is adamant that he doesn’t want help. His boys are mischievous but good-hearted. And though Konrad may be struggling, he doesn’t want anyone else sticking their nose in and telling him what his sons need. Or what he needs.

For her part, the charity’s founder Martina Krahn is relieved to have a reason to spend time outside her unhappy home. It even occurs to her that she may, through her work, encounter a boy in need of a family and so find a son for her husband since they have no children of their own.

Augusta, Konrad, and Martina each have deep needs and desires, and each imagines how they should be met: by reaching out or by being left alone. But God, indeed, knows best. Will the competing agendas of Alexandertol’s residents prevent them from receiving God’s help? Or will the members of this small Mennonite community find the answers to their prayers in the very last place they expect—in one another?

My Review:

I love that this author is described as one who writes "gentle stories of hope." I couldn't agree more.

I've read a couple of the author's books in the past and have really enjoyed them. There's something about reading a "gentle" story that just speaks peace to my heart. The Tapestry of Grace was just as sweet. Well, maybe a little bittersweet for some of the characters.

This was an ensemble cast of characters, with the main ones being Augusta and Konrad. They're both widowed with young children. She's not looking for a husband, and Konrad isn't looking for a wife... at least not initially. lol Martina plays a huge role in all of this, and with some manipulation that comes across as kindness, she gets the ball rolling so that Augusta starts searching for a wife for Konrad and Martina hopes to gain a child.

Watching Martina's schemes unfold is rather shocking! Her delusional thoughts took me aback, but as we got to know her more, while not ok, we began to understand her desperation. There's a lot to unpack with her storyline such as miscarriages, guilt, and shame, but also forgiveness, healing, and redemption.

I like that the author gave a balance of the children. With Konrad's twins and their struggles without having a mom around and then Augusta with her sweet daughter, we see how children deal with loss differently. I felt like the author handled the topic with great care and grace.

One of the most impactful parts of this story was the faith. It was so beautiful how Augusta truly approached everything in her life with Scripture in mind. It was NOT overdone nor did it feel just thrown in willy nilly. It's an example to every reader of how and why we approach life with a Christ-centered mind. Honestly, there was a good amount of conviction in my spirit as I read the story. You can't beat a story when the Holy Spirit uses it to prick your heart towards godliness.

Of course, what's a story without the gossipy ladies, misunderstandings, and miscommunication? hahaha

About the Author:

Kim Vogel Sawyer is a highly acclaimed, bestselling author with more than 1.5 million books in print in seven different languages. Her titles have earned numerous accolades including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers' Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas with her retired military husband, Don, where she continues to write gentle stories of hope. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and grandchildren.

The Words We Lost By Nicole Deese

The Words We Lost

by Nicole Deese

Publisher: Bethany House

ISBN: 9780764241185

Having read several of Nicole Deese's books in the past, when I was given the opportunity to read her newest release The Words We Lost, I JUMPED at the chance!! She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

Three friends. Two broken promises. One missing manuscript. 

As a senior acquisitions editor for Fog Harbor Books in San Francisco, Ingrid Erikson has rejected many a manuscript for lack of defined conflict and dramatic irony--two elements her current life possesses in spades. In the months following the death of her childhood best friend and international bestselling author Cecelia Campbell, Ingrid has not only lost her ability to escape into fiction due to a rare trauma response, but she's also desperate to find the closure she's convinced will come with Cecelia's missing final manuscript.

After Ingrid jeopardizes her career, she fears her future will remain irrevocably broken. But then Joel Campbell--the man who shattered her belief in happily-ever-afters--offers her a sealed envelope from his late cousin, Cecelia, asking Joel and to put their differences aside and retrieve a mysterious package in their coastal Washington hometown.

Honoring Cecelia's last request will challenge their convictions and test their loyalties, but through it all, will Ingrid and Joel be brave enough to uncover a twice-in-a-lifetime love?

My Review:

Do you love books that take your breath away? If so, The Words We Lost is for you. My review, just to warn you, will NOT do this story justice. It's one that needs to be experienced and savored. FYI, this author is one of the authors that I don't even ask what the story is about. It doesn't matter. I'm reading it! She's that incredible.

This novel is beautiful, heartbreaking, soul piercing, full of emotion, and will leave you feeling incredibly fulfilled. Your time will have been well spent reading. This isn't a quick read, depending on how you go about it. I initially took it in bits and pieces. It's emotionally gripping from the start and was wrenching my heart in two from the first page. While I didn't want to put it down, there were moments when it was... a lot. This is NOT said in a negative way, but gives testament to the authors incredible writing!

I could feel Indy's anguish and struggle from the moment we meet her. It's not quite clear why she's stopped functioning at work and has closed herself off from everyone. I mean, she's lost her best friend, we get that, but there's so much deeper that we have to learn about. Almost immediately, Joel, her best friend's cousin has arrived at her office and you could cut the tension with a knife.

And then there's Cece, the best friend and family member one could ever hope for. Through Joel and Indy I came to love her! Through the pages of the 'story' within the story I came to love her through her eyes as well. God's hand was in their meeting when they were teens. God was still moving when their lives were ripped apart and I'm so thankful the author shows that through her characters.

The friends and family of Cece, Joel, and Indy play an integral part of each facet of the book, and on top of that, I was transported back to the decade+ that I lived in the PNW! I could easily see it in my mind's eye and it was as lovely as ever.

I loved how the author created the world of Cardithia, the series Cece had been working on for all her teen and young adult years. Part of the story comes in the form of words by her before she dies. They're easy to separate out with how the author writes it so there's never any confusion.

There's so much redemption in this story for each of the characters. There's healing that gives hope to those suffering from loss and depression. I loved that the author didn't shy away from faith throughout the story because it was so vital to every part of it. Your world will be rocked and you'll need tissue on hand, but I promise you, it'll be worth it!

About the Author:

Nicole Deese's (nicoledeese.com) is a Christy and Carol Award-winning, bestselling author of hope-filled, humorous, and heartfelt contemporary romance novels. When she's not sorting out character arcs and story plots of her own, she can usually be found listening to an audiobook and multitasking at least four different chores at once. She's a hoarder of sparkling water, a lover of long walks and even longer talks with friends, and a seeker of fun and adventure at all times. She lives in small-town, Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two freakishly tall teenage sons, and one princess daughter with the heart of a warrior.

26 Below By Kimberley Woodhouse

26 Below

by Kimberley Woodhouse

Publisher: Kregel

Series: Alaskan Cyber Hunters

ISBN: 9780825447723

My interest was so piqued knowing that the author is usually writing historical fiction. When I learned she was writing a suspense series, I had to know more! She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

A curse. 
A killer. 
A chill in the air. 
Temps are dropping and time is running out.

In her new role as Emergency Operations Center director for Fairbanks, Alaska, Darcie Phillips prevents disasters. But none of her training can prepare her for the terror that's coming. 

As a cybersecurity specialist, Jason Myers is determined to ferret out any threats to the town he now calls home--and that includes his reckless brother and his ecoterrorist friends. 

When an old woman's wild prediction--widespread destruction as soon as the Fairbanks temperature falls to 26 below--hits national headlines, neither Darcie nor Jason sees a real risk to anything but tourism. Then the bodies start dropping. 

Darcie is relying on her experience and intelligence to stop a killer; Jason is relying on God to guide the way. But they'll have to work together to find the truth and prevent their Alaskan town from becoming a city of nightmares. 

My Review:

My interest was so piqued knowing that the author is usually writing historical fiction, but was stepping into a suspense series. If an author can write well in more than one genre, more power to them (and more reading for me)!

The premise of the book is one that freaks me out because of the possible reality of it, while also making me want to learn what I need to do in case I want to be prepared for widespread power outage. When we look at the threats in the cyber world, this story hits close to home. It's a powerful reminder of how reliant we are on power, internet, and instant communication.

First there's Darcie who is the new director for the Emergency Operations Center in Fairbanks, Alaska. The Governor has given her a year to get things operational in her department, but she doesn't have that long. The story begins with her first press conference which is a disaster! Things continue to go downhill from there. She has the most amazing assistant, Misty. I loved her character! Darcie, though, I kind of struggled with her. She has a hard history with her parents and best friend from when she was younger. She just seemed, a bit emotionally unstable for the job she needs to do. She was often closing herself away and treating her team rather unkindly.

Almost right away we also meet Jason, who is all about cybersecurity! He's the perfect guy, in the right place, at the right time! Thank goodness for that! I really liked his character. He was kind and knowledgeable, as well as protective. His brother, who we also meet, not so much like Jason. He ends up really liking Darcie and I actually thought he and Misty would make a better couple. lol Darcie seemed to abrasive in any personal interactions so I struggled to understand why he would have warm, fuzzy feelings towards her. There was also one quick section where he's talking with his parents, about something REALLY important, but then we never have any clue how Jason responded or what his parents learned. It was never brought up again.

There's complete chaos going on in Fairbanks! Someone is staying one step ahead of the EOC as well as every other government office and safety department. People are dying left and right. An old woman shows up out of the blue with what seems like crazy ramblings. It's just pandemonium. But seriously, you can totally picture it as the author is describing the story. I couldn't figure out who might be involved. And of course, the story ends on a cliffhanger so now I have to wait for the next one. This is definitely one series you do NOT want to read out of order.

I really loved how faith was fleshed out in this story in lots of different ways. There were quite a few moments I could really relate to the characters with how they were dealing with faith overall, but also with their own relationship with God and others. It was very heartwarming for it to be so central to the story.

About the Author:

Kimberley Woodhouse is the best-selling author of more than thirty books and novellas, including A Deep Divide, Bridge of Gold, and The Mayflower Bride, as well as the coauthor of the Heart of Alaska series with Tracie Peterson. Kimberley’s writing has earned a Carol Award, the Christian Market Novel of the Year, the Holt Medallion, and many others. A proud former resident of Alaska, she now makes her home in the Pennsylvania Poconos. Visit her at kimberleywoodhouse.com.

Blind Trust By Natalie Walters

Blind Trust

by Natalie Walters

Publisher: Revell

Series: The SNAP Agency

ISBN: 9780800739805

Once again, I was thrilled to be on the launch team for the last book of The SNAP Agency. I have REALLY come to love this team and I hate letting them go! If you're a fan of government suspense, you'll love all 3 1/2 of the book. I received the book as part of the launch team. If you purchase the book with the link below I may receive a commission.

Summary:

She's risking her life. He's risking his heart. It's unclear which is more dangerous.

Lyla Fox knows she has a reputation at the SNAP Agency for being impulsive, but when she receives a threatening letter from a man she helped put in prison, she can't stop herself from going all in to find out why he's coming after her. Unfortunately, she's going to need the help of the one person who questions her choices more than anyone else.

Explosives and weapons specialist Nicolás Garcia agrees to help Lyla in order to keep her safe, but her recklessness continues to be a major concern, especially when her investigation into a conspiracy puts a target on her back. Dealing with bombs is dangerous. Working with Lyla is proving to be just as treacherous--to both the mission and his heart.

My Review:

HOW does she do it? Natalie Walters is gifted at taking the craziest situations - and not one, but several - and making them a cohesive, edge-of-your-seat suspense story! What could've been crazy and convoluted was incredibly written and started connecting some dots I didn't even know needed connecting! Those are my initial thoughts on Blind Trust!

If you've read through the other 2 1/2 books of this series, you know we've all been waiting for Lyla and Garcia's story! But sheesh, it was so much more than that. As with all of the other books, I love that the entire SNAP team is fully present (along with Brynn). They get plenty of air time throughout the story, but it's focused more on Garcia and Lyla.

I think in book 2 Garcia finally caught my eye. He a great, broody guy who really grew on me. So much so, I could not WAIT for this book. And Lyla, from the moment we meet Cupcake in book one, I loved her. And wow, her story turned out to be more than I expected! Whew! Hold onto your seatbelts my friends.

Right from the start, the story takes the reader into the thick of things. Lyla gets a freaky letter and things go south from there. If you don't mind your life being put in danger on the regular, the SNAP Agency is the place to be apparently. Why someone is trying to send a message or trying to take her out unfolds throughout the story. And let me tell you, towards the end, there's a "made for the movies" scene that will have you 😳!

And poor Garcia is there for all of it. Keeping Lyla safe was literally a full time job for him. At the same time he thinks he's stifling her God given abilities, but that's because his heart has softened towards her although he's still trying to come to grips with it. Sakes alive, if any hunky fictional character can wear a baseball hat that's basically become a side character of its own, it's Garcia!

If you want a 10-finger nail biter of a story, I present to you the book that will fit the bill!

About the Author:

Natalie Walters is the author of Lights Out and Fatal Code, as well as the Harbored Secrets series. A military wife, she currently resides in Texas with her soldier husband and is the proud mom of three. She loves traveling, spending time with her family, and connecting with readers on Instagram and Facebook. Learn more at www.nataliewalterswriter.com.

A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors + GIVEAWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors including Lynn Austin, Susie Finkbeiner, Jocelyn Green, Laura Frantz, Kate Breslin, Amanda Barratt, and Joanna Davidson Politano, sponsored by JustRead Publicity Tours!

You are Invited

A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors
September 2, 2023 at 7 p.m. 
Palmer House Hilton Hotel, Chicago

Join us at 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 2, at Chicago’s historic Palmer House Hilton Hotel for a tasteful evening with tea and talk of books, writing, history, and the power of story. Emceed by Chris Jager of Baker Book House, seven novelists will share what inspires them, tales from the research files, what they’ve learned on the journey, and their hope for readers.

Learn More about A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors

Check out my interview with Laura Frantz! You can also read my full review of The Rose and the Thistle!

1. If you could transport yourself into any of your books for a day, which one would it be and why? I’ve always been fascinated by the hero in Courting Morrow Little. Since the novel is only written from Morrow’s perspective he was quite an intriguing character to me. He wasn’t even wordy, just communicated through his actions for the most part. I’m thinking of that dangling scalp in one scene! I’d love to take a look at the unspoiled Kentucky frontier in the novel’s 18th-century setting. 

2. What country and time period would you like to write a book in that might surprise your readers? I would absolutely love to write a medieval novel set in Scotland. My Scottish ancestors were the bad boys of the Borders back then, the bloody dividing line between Scotland & England. So much history to delve into & fictionalize though it was a very dark, distressing time. A curse was even put on my clan and fellow Border Reivers by an archbishop.

3. Which actor and actress (from the past or our current time) would you cast to play Lady Blythe and Everard in a movie? Actually, I’d cast the real life royal, Lady Gabriella Windsor, in the role as Lady Blythe Hedley & former Calvin Klein model Michael Bergin for the laird, Everard Hume, when he was young back in the 90’s. 

4. What are the qualities you find most important to make sure your main characters possess? For example, one of the things I loved about Everard is that he was steadfast and he didn't play games. Honestly, that's one of the absolute top things I love about the men in your stories.

Absolutely love your insights – thank you! Truth is what I value most in my main characters. They must speak truth & act with integrity, especially heroes. Since I spend a year or more with fictional people in each book I need to like them foremost, at least the principals. And I need to respect them, too. 

5. Which of your women main characters (from all of your stories) would you like to have afternoon tea with? My heroines do love tea😊 I would probably sit down with Liberty Lawson in The Lacemaker. Her riches-to-rags story is set in one of my favorite historical places, Colonial Williamsburg. She knows a thing or two about tea!

6. What do you like about writing the villains in your stories? I identify more with the villains in my novels than my heroes & heroines. And though I’ve had to kill one or two on the page it’s never a pleasant experience as I see all of them as redeemable! Villains, both male & female, are a great foil to the hero & heroines if done right. Their badness shines light on the goodness, so to speak.

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About the Authors

LYNN AUSTIN, whose titles include Long Way Home, Chasing Shadows, and If I Were You. Connect with her at LynnAustin.org.

AMANDA BARRATT, whose titles include Within These Walls of Sorrow, The White Rose Resists, and My Dearest Dietrich. Connect with her at AmandaBarratt.net.

KATE BRESLIN, whose titles include In Love’s Time, As Dawn Breaks, and Far Side of the Sea. Connect with her at KateBreslin.com.

SUSIE FINKBEINER, whose titles include The All-American, The Nature of Small Birds, and All Manner of Things. Connect with her at SusieFinkbeiner.com.

LAURA FRANTZ, whose titles include The Rose and the Thistle, A Heart Adrift, and Tidewater Bride. Connect with her at LauraFrantz.net.

JOCELYN GREEN, whose titles include The Metropolitan Affair, The Windy City Saga series, and The Mark of the King. Connect with her at JocelynGreen.com.

JOANNA DAVIDSON POLITANO, whose titles include The Lost Melody, A Midnight Dance, and The Love Note. Connect with her at JDPStories.com.

Purchase Tickets to Attend A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a tote bag, one bag of Pride and Peppermint Novel Tea, plus a $20 egift card to BakerBookHouse.com!

 

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 12, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 19, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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