Tell Tale Book Reviews

Just Read Blog Tour - Shadowcast by Crystal D. Grant (Giveaway)

9/21/2023

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Shadowcast by Crystal D. Grant,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

He has known nothing but darkness for years.
Now it’s time to let it consume him.

After witnessing the brutal death of his brother at the hands of the Steward Knights, Mason Grey turns to vengeance. Using his Gifts to read and control the minds of others, he climbs the ranks of the Dark Army, determined to earn the coveted Shadowstone-a powerful tool against the light-wielding Stewards. But when he is wounded in battle, he finds himself recovering in the home of a chatty peasant girl...without the use of his Gifts. Even worse, the girl mistakes him for one of the Stewards he despises.
Seria Gayle longs to be seen as more than the town washerwoman. When she finds an injured Steward in the woods, she welcomes the chance to use her healing skills and hopes it will earn her some respect. But as she nurses the sullen stranger back to health, she discovers he is nothing like the knights she has long admired.
When Mason's true identity is revealed, Seria is devastated and humiliated. But she is offered a chance at redemption by the very prince that Mason hates. Now Mason struggles between two choices: accept the Shadowstone to avenge his brother or pursue this newfound light in the form of a peasant girl. With time running out and war looming, will Mason and Seria defy their own convictions for a chance at love or stand against one another like they've sworn to do?

Publisher: Quill and Flame Publishing
Release Date: September 20, 2023
Genre: Fantasy Romance (Clean)

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

My Review

Light and darkness clash in the Gateway...

I am always up for a good fantasy novel from a new-to-me author and Shadowcast was certainly both. Coming in at over 500 pages this first The Gateway Trilogy novel from Crystal D. Grant is quite the story. Featuring battles, betrayal, spies, a touch of romance, redemption, and sacrifice this book has a little bit of everything.

Crystal D. Grant had me intrigued by her well done – and certainly vivid – fantasy realm from start to finish. Darkmen, Stewards, and Gifts of the Moon, plus the mysterious Shadowstones. Add in a healer with more laundry to take care of than she has patients, a man bent on a revenge after a tragic loss, a man trying to find his place once again despite the mistakes of the past, and the evil one determined to own or destroy them all. Well, as you can see you get a pretty entertaining tale.

Shadowcast is the first book in The Gateway Trilogy and as it ended on something of a cliffhanger I am on tenterhooks as to what will happen next. I am by no means waiting patiently so I hope it won't be too long before I get to visit with Seria, Mason, Eric, and the others both good and evil. It's going to be an epic tale for sure...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Shadowcast by Crystal D. Grant a 4.5 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Crystal D. Grant

Crystal D. Grant is a daydreamer who adores freshly-baked cookies and anything with fur or feathers. During the day, she strives to instill a love of books and learning within her young students. As a hearing-impaired, home-school graduate, she found her voice in writing and has had multiple short stories and poems published. When she’s not reading or writing stories that sweep her away to another time and place, she watches classic movies and TV shows that do the same. Or she works on jigsaw puzzles. Crystal currently resides in smalltown Missouri, where she is always looking for space for another scented candle.
Connect with Crystal by visiting crystalgrantauthor.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will win a signed copy of Shadowcast,
book swag, and exclusive color art from the book!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 18, 2023 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on September 25, 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/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Powerful Whispers by Christa Joy Spaeth (Giveaway)

9/19/2023

1 Comment

Powerful Whispers gives you a glimpse of how awe-inspiring God’s whispers of His love are for you. He desires to capture your heart, to communicate personally with you, to encourage and strengthen you.

Each daily devotional offers God’s life-giving words, suggests powerful worship, and provides an activation step applying that day’s principe to your life. Let the Lord fill your cup to overflowing as you embark on this amazing 7-week journey.

Whether you’be been walking with the Lord for years or have been recently saved, you will discover in fresh new ways that: God Knows You – God Loves You – God Fights for You – God provides for You – God Chose You – God’s Peace is for You – God’s Powerful Whispers Can Change your Life

Genre: Christian non-fiction, devotional
Release Date: February 22, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Christa

#1. What part of the writing process do you like the least?
Editing was my least favorite part of writing; it was such a long process! As a new author, I had no idea about the value of a good editor, nor did I understand the different types of editors. The first editor I hired was a copy editor, who is really meant to be the final editor. Her focus was on punctuation, spelling, and basic grammar. Thankfully, an experienced friend in book publishing suggested I hire a content editor. I was led to work with the perfect person for me and my book. This editor took a step back and provided great direction to help my book be consistent in tone and content. She challenged me to add several thousand more words. I am thankful for her insights because they made my book more complete.
I’ve heard it said no matter how good you think you are as a writer; you need an editor. This process sure validated that statement to me. The lesson I learned for my future books is to build in lots of time for the editing process. If you plan to write books in the future, one tip I have for you is, however long you think editing will take, double that. It’s a slow process but it was well worth the time and money!

#2. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
An embarrassing moment for me was when I met with a wonderful mentor of mine who also happened to design my beautiful book. His insights helped me greatly as I neared the end of writing Powerful Whispers. He inquired why my sections were not even, they were greatly lopsided. At the time, I had a very large portion of the devotions in the “God loves you” section. He said very gently, but firmly a good book needs to have equal sections. As an avid reader, how had I missed that point?
He challenged me to think how to break the book up into even, weekly segments. That embarrassing moment was a game changer for my book. After hours of brainstorming with my mom and adding new devotions to the mix, I was able to break up my book into 7 equal parts with seven days each week.

#3. How has writing about this particular topic changed your own life?
In many of my devotions, I had to reflect on my life situations, some of which were painful. Yet I knew they needed to be part of this devotional. Through the writing process, I was able to see how God was by my side even in the hard times. Also, I believe it is because of these relatable stories that readers have been encouraged and their faith has deepened. As for myself, I was able to move my head knowledge of God’s love for me to a heart knowledge of God’s love.

#4. What do you hope your readers will remember after finishing this book?
I want my readers to have a deeper understanding of how much God loves them, knows them and that He chose them to be here on this earth right now.
One of my readers wrote this review which sums up what I was hoping the readers to walk away with “I grew up in a tradition focused more on theology than on relationship, and this has been a good study in listening for that still, small voice that relates to me on a personal level! I love the music recommendations for each devotional. Highly recommend this 7-week study!”

#5. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
My favorite verse that I read out loud every day before writing Powerful Whispers is found in James 1:5 which states,

“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God and he will give it to you.
He will not rebuke you for asking.”

More from Christa

One morning while I was away at a prayer cabin, the Lord laid on my heart that I was to write a book. My first thought was, “Oh, my! Lord, I have never written anything other than work-related documents. Where do I begin? What do you want me to write?”

I am so honored and humbled that the Lord placed amazing book experts in my path over the next year to launch this unique devotional book in a mere 55 weeks. This feat is spectacular as I didn’t know anything about the publishing business.

Two components of Powerful Whispers that my readers love are the suggested worship and the activations. After each devotional was written I searched for the perfect worship song. You will find several suggested indie artist songs and a few popular worship songs too. Daily you will find an activation which engages your entire body to be able to get the daily truth deeper in your soul.

The Bible verse I read before I starting to write Powerful Whispers is found in James 1:5, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” God continually showed His faithfulness to me by providing wisdom to share with my readers.

My heart’s desire is that readers will soon learn through this daily devotional that God chose them, He loves them, and He wants to share His powerful whispers daily for their life.

Christa Joy Spaeth

Christa Joy Spaeth is the founder of Christa Joy Ministries. It was in 2022 when Minnesota-based author Christa received a compelling message from God. In a prayer cabin called “Whisper,” He prompted her to write a seven-week devotional.
Since then, Christa’s eyes, heart, and ears were opened to more whispers, so that she may start fulfilling her new purpose of helping the hurting and share the love of Christ.
This blessed wife, mother of two, and businesswoman is passionate about living up to God’s plans for her every day. So much so that in 2022, she stepped down from her decades-long career as a Registered Dietitian at a large food manufacturing company to pursue the promptings of the Lord and encourage others in Christ.

Today, Christa owns and operates Christa Joy Ministries where she publishes her own books, writes daily encouragements
and God whispers on her social media accounts. In addition, she does guest blog posts for various social media accounts.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Christa is giving away the grand prize package of
a $30 Amazon gift card, a signed copy of Powerful Whispers
devotional book, and a hand-crafted leather bookmark!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/27de3/powerful-whispers-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 13
Lily’s Book Reviews, September 14
Locks, Hooks and Books, September 15
A Reader’s Brain, September 16 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 17
Texas Book-aholic, September 18
Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 19 (Author Interview)
Life on Chickadee Lane, September 19
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 20
Its Mama Safe, September 21
The Book Club Network, September 22
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 23
Artistic Nobody, September 24 (Author Interview)
By The Book, September 25 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, September 25
Lots of Helpers, September 26

1 Comment

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Coming Home To Truth by Michelle De Bruin (Giveaway)

9/14/2023

2 Comments

In a search for her future, Lacy Jones travels with a friend to a new town where a single dad shows her how to find meaning and lasting success.

Lacy Jones, a graduate of her small high school, knows her whole world is about to change. She dreams of freedom from the struggles with her health, and of the independence that comes with a steady job. When her friend invites her to share the journey to visit the teacher from their country school days, Lacy finally gets the chance to chase her dreams. But when the girls get separated along the way, Lacy is left to make the trip alone. Arriving in a strange town, Lacy is reunited with old friends who introduce her to a new life, new relationships, and a new way of seeing herself.

Conrad Van Drunen has spent the last four years developing his furniture business and raising his two children. He knows they need a mother, but he isn’t ready to talk of remarriage. When Lacy Jones falls across his path, Conrad is forced to make some changes. His brother and sister-in-law offer

their assistance from babysitting and financial counsel to matchmaking, but Conrad has other plans. Losing hope of finding what he lost with his first wife, Conrad discovers the mother he’s been seeking for his children in the most unexpected place.

Journey with Lacy and Conrad through trials and joys where deception and the truth can sometimes look an awfully lot alike.

Genre: Inspirational Historical Fiction
Release Date: June 20, 2022

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Michelle

1. How long did it take to finish this book?
Approximately nine months. I’d signed a three-book contract with a publisher, and this book was number two of the three, so I had to stay on time. I was also preparing to start Clinical Pastoral Education training for my job in chaplaincy, so I wanted to get this manuscript finished and sent to the publisher before my classes began.

2. How did you name your characters?
The hero has a Dutch background. He emigrated from Holland with his brothers at the turn of the 20th century, so I wanted to give him an authentic Dutch name someone of that era really could have had. Conrad Van Drunen comes pretty close.

For the heroine, I wanted to give her a name that was feminine, yet reflected her country girl roots. I wanted her to be ordinary, but not insignificant, and common, without any ties to money and fame. I wanted a wholesome, brave young woman who could represent a good number of us. Lacy Jones is what came out of that brainstorm.

3. Tell about yourself and your family.
I am married to my husband, Tom. We celebrated 25 years this spring. Our oldest son is a master’s student in the meteorology department at the University of Nebraska. Our other son is a business student at Iowa State. I am one of the chaplains at our local hospital, focusing primarily on ministry to Hospice patients and their families. I enjoy writing, reading a wide range of books, kayaking, baking, and gardening.

4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
The message is all about narrative. What story are we believing about our identities, our skills, and our character? Is it coming from the world telling us we’re too sick, too poor, or too ordinary to follow our callings? Or is the narrative we’re listening to coming from the voice of truth, (God’s Holy Spirit living inside of us) telling us we are beloved, beautiful, strong, and valuable?

Both Lacy and Conrad have to answer these questions for themselves. I hope that as the reader is watching the main characters make choices, they are taking a look at their own lives and believing the truth about identity, character, and calling.

5. Share a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
I dedicate this book to young women on the adventure of discovering who they really are. No matter our age, we are all on the adventure of discovering our true selves. Each day is a revelation of our abilities, our influence, and our significance in the eyes of God. Sometimes it takes a high level of courage to accept the truth about ourselves. But the careful work of discerning the true from the false is well worthwhile because once we’ve done it, we know who we are supposed to be, the direction we need to go, and the difference we are intended to make. I encourage readers to keep listening to the voice of truth, and then to make the necessary adjustments to align our lives with it.

More from Michelle

Coming Home to Truth is the second in a trilogy of books set in a small Iowa town during the years 1913 through 1918. This is the second series of books I have written. The Tomorrow series is the first set, and if you’ve already read it, you will recognize characters that appeared in Hope for Tomorrow, Promise for Tomorrow, and Dreaming of Tomorrow.

This book is a delightful story of Conrad, a single dad, and Lacy, a young lady searching for a place to belong. Conrad would like to find a mother for his two school-age children but feels that the risks are just too high. Lacy wants to prove that she can support herself and can use her talents in photography to establish a new career.

In this story, Lacy’s friends see her differently than she sees herself. It causes her to take a second look at her life to decide what is true and what isn’t. This book takes us on a journey with Lacy and Conrad through trials and joys where deception and the truth can sometimes look an awfully lot alike.

Thank you for joining me on this tour. I hope you enjoy the blog posts and enter the drawing for the giveaway. Follow me on social media and subscribe to my newsletter at https://michelledebruin.com/.

Grace and peace,
Michelle De Bruin

Michelle De Bruin

Michelle De Bruin lives in Iowa with her husband of 25 years and two young adult sons who are college students at Iowa State. She has a bachelor’s degree in religion with a Christian Ministry emphasis, and in Music. Michelle serves as a chaplain for Pella Regional Health Center. She writes inspirational historical romance about people who live in rural communities. 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. A romantic at heart, Michelle is always on the lookout for glimpses of God’s love through the window of a good story. You can learn more about Michelle by visiting her website: michelledebruin.com

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away the grand prize package of
a $50 Amazon gift card & copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/27fb1/coming-home-to-truth-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

An Author’s Take, September 1
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 2
Texas Book-aholic, September 3
Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 4 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 5 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 5
lakesidelivingsite, September 6
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 7
Locks, Hooks and Books, September 8
Connie’s History Classroom, September 9
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 10
For Him and My Family, September 11
Cover Lover Book Review, September 12
Karen Baney Reviews, September 12
Holly’s Book Corner, September 13
Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 14 (Author Interview)
Pause for Tales, September 14

2 Comments

WORD Wednesday - September 6th, 2023

9/6/2023

1 Comment

Celebrate Epic Book Launch - Countin' On Jesse by Mary Pat Johns

8/25/2023

2 Comments

Peeps’ gym owner Jesse seeks accreditation. Accountant Brenna wants to help Jesse reach his goal. They’re a great team, but can she count on him when trouble strikes?

Accountant BRENNA MCKINLEY only wants what’s best for Peeps, the wildly popular gym in Valiant, Texas. But when money goes missing, and she’s the obvious suspect, will she be able to clear her name or face criminal charges? Keeping her dream job matters, but falling in love with her boss isn’t part of the plan. Neither is the creepy guy stalking her.

Young veteran JESSE JACOBS manages and co-owns Peeps, an exercise facility in Valiant, Texas. He needs help to gain accreditation for the gym, and his new accountant is all in. But is she who she seems? Too bad he’s falling for her like a man with no parachute. When the pressure builds, PTSD renders him moody and volatile, risking everything he loves.

Genre: (Inspirational) Contemporary Romance
Release Date: September 12th, 2023

Excerpt from Countin' On Jesse

Hoots and whistles rang around the dining room, and one smart aleck yelled, “Kiss her!”

The smell of ranch dressing rose from the salad confetti littering his clothes. A hush descended over the restaurant.

“Are you all right? ”He peered into her face, black brows etched with concern.

“I’m fine. ”As she pulled away, he released her. She scrambled to her feet, touching her hot cheeks, confident her face blazed as red as the diced tomato on his shirt. She picked a piece of purple onion off his shoulder, then hastily backed away. “I’m sorry,” she choked out.

Velvety brown eyes locked on hers for what seemed an eternity. His lips moved, but the roar in Brenna’s ears deafened any other sound. Finally, their bizarre level of awareness broke with the herd of servers hurrying over, swiping white dishcloths everywhere.

Just when Brenna thought death from embarrassment could actually be a thing, a guy with auburn hair from the church-folk table yelled, “Good show,” clapping vigorously. Other applause broke out, and good-natured laughter echoed around the room. At least the customers decided the situation was funny. She flung a desperate curtsy in the general vicinity of the clapping and headed to the kitchen with her best I-got-this-stroll.

Mary Pat Johns

Mary Pat Johns’ writing career began once she retired from years of teaching speech and writing. She’s written devotions for an online publication and had short stories published by Chicken Soup for the Soul. She currently writes a biweekly faith column for the local newspaper.

Countin’ On Jesse is her debut novel, and she’s hard at work on the rest of the Valiant series. God put it in her heart to tell stories of brave veterans and their reintegration into civilian life after suffering the traumas of war. As she kept writing, her focus generalized to include ordinary people who learn how to move forward after devastating events. Her writing has a strong spiritual thread since she considers a return to faith in God the solution for what ails the civilized world.

She lives in South Texas with her husband and their two dapple dachshunds. Her grown children and five
grandchildren are useful sorts who keep her grounded with her reading/writing obsession.
You can find her at the gym, at her computer, or reading a good book.

Countin’ On Jesse placed second in inspirational contemporary romance in the TARA contest.
It was also a finalist in the Crown and the Maggie contests for unpublished authors.

Blog Stops

Excerpt One: https://lakesidelivingsite.wordpress.com/2023/08/15/countin-on-jesse-epic-book-launch/
Excerpt Two: https://coverloverbookreview.blogspot.com/2023/08/counting-on-jesse.html
Excerpt Three: http://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com/2023/08/countin-on-jesse-by-mary-pat-johns.html
Excerpt Four: https://guildmaster97.wordpress.com/2023/08/24/countin-on-jesse-epic-book-launch/
Excerpt Five: http://montanamade.weebly.com/tell-tale-book-reviews/celebrate-epic-book-launch-countin-on-jesse-by-mary-pat-johns
Excerpt Six: http://www.simpleharvestreads.com/posts/countin-on-jesse-book-excerpt/
Excerpt Seven: https://www.artistwriterandstudentohmy.com/posts/countin-on-jesse-book-excerpt/

2 Comments

E-Book Review - Countdown by Lynette Eason

8/24/2023

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A stalker who wants to finish what he started. A US Marshal who's vowed to protect his charge.
And one woman who is determined to put the past in the past.

Flight paramedic Raina Price has been running so long it's hard to stop. To escape a dangerous stalker, she changed her name and disappeared, building a new life with the help of a friend from her time in juvie. It feels good to put her energies into saving people's lives, but because her stalker was never found, she's never stopped looking over her shoulder. And one can only run so far before the past finally catches up.

US Marshal Vincent Corelli's job is to hunt down fugitives and protect those who are assigned to him. When Raina is almost killed right in front of him, he vows to protect her at all costs--whether it's his job or not. Together they work to solve the mystery of Raina's past. But someone is out to make sure Raina doesn't live long enough to do it.

Countdown is the breathless conclusion to USA Today bestselling author Lynette Eason's thrilling Extreme Measures series.

ASIN: ‎B0BLW8NVBG
Publisher: ‎Revell
Publication date: ‎August 1, 2023

My Review

If she asks for help, will it get him killed?

Ooh, I knew Raina's story would be good but Lynette Eason managed to exceed my expectations in Countdown! It had all of the chills and thrills that I've come to expect – and enjoy – from the Extreme Measures ladies, plus a little bit more...

Countdown has a little bit of everything in it from kidnapping to murder to betrayal to attempts to silence the only living witness... And, thanks to all of that, there is one thing that Raina and Vince never get a chance to do – just breathe.

Lynette Eason most definitely keeps her readers glued to the page and sitting on the edge of their seats with this fourth Extreme Measures book. It's entertaining and interesting and exciting and it keeps you guessing. I had my suspicions part way through the book but I had to wait until the very end – on tenterhooks the entire time – before I found for sure if I was right or not.

The only disappointing thing about Countdown is that is the final book in the Extreme Measures series and I am sorry to be saying goodbye to Lynette Eason's strong-willed and strong-minded ladies. They've been so much fun to curl up in a chair and spend a few hours with...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Countdown by Lynette Eason a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Sky Of Seven Colors by Rachelle Nelson (Giveaway)

8/22/2023

6 Comments

In a strange part of the forest, the divide between worlds grows thin.

After the accident, Meg would do anything to wake her best friend from his deadly coma. At least, that’s what she whispered into the woodland shadows. She never imagined her wish would trap her in a gray other-earth, void of any color.

Meg’s vibrant humanity is a priceless artifact in the gray kingdom, coveted by the royal court. All she wants to do is find a way back home. Until she discovers the other-earth contains healing powers that can save her friend. But only if Meg becomes what the gray people need—a human bride for Kalmus, the powerful king of the capital city.

With her heart torn between earths, Meg’s choices may cost more than she knows.

Genre: YA Fantasy
Release Date: August 8, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

She is only a pawn but can she change the game?

Over the last few years I have become a real fan of Christian and clean YA fantasy. There is something about it that just captures my imagination in a way that my beloved romantic suspense and historical genres can't quite seem to do. Whether it is fairytale retellings or epic fantasy, I love to escape in worlds where the impossible is possible. Sky Of Seven Colors is one such novel...

Seriously, this debut novel from Rachelle Nelson is one of the best that I've read in last few weeks and it is one of the most vivid. This, of course, is a surprise in a way as the 'other-earth' depicted in the novel comes only in shades of grey. I really was captivated by the story, the characters, and by the charmingly flawed Meg who will go to any lengths to save the life of one closest to her...

Sky Of Seven Colors may be aimed at a young adult / teen audience but it is a tale that intirgues and mesmerizes and it has a message that transcends specific age groups.

I was sincerely impressed by Rachelle Nelson's skill with this story. It is her debut novel but it reads more like a book written by an author with several titles already under their belt. Discovering new authors is always fun but it is even better when you love the story and absolutely can't wait for more from them, which, is exactly how I feel after finishing this one...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Sky Of Seven Colors by Rachelle Nelson a 4.5 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from Rachelle

Sky of Seven Colors is a story, in part, about beauty. I wrote it for my younger self, and for all the women I love.

When I was twelve years old, the girls in my neighborhood frequently weighed themselves and ended up forming an “under-100-club”. I have no idea why the arbitrary measurement of one hundred pounds was chosen, but I do know I was the first to outgrow the standard. A fact that was made known to the neighborhood boys during a driveway basketball game.

A chant began. “One hundred, one hundred.” And I didn’t play basketball again for the rest of the summer.

At the time, I didn’t know I would soon grow to my full height of 5’9” and would always be “bigger” than the other girls. I was convinced I could never be beautiful if I was the biggest, and I desperately wanted to be beautiful. You will probably think I was vain if I tell you I prayed every night before bed that God would make me prettier.

Now, as a woman well into her thirties, I am much more comfortable with the body God gave me. I have been a youth mentor for over a decade, and while getting to know some amazing teens, I have come to appreciate that every girl wants to be beautiful.

And they are.

I’m not just saying that in the “everyone is pretty in their own way” sense. I mean it. It’s an indisputable truth.

Femininity is beautiful.

Youth in and of itself is beautiful.

And powerful. You don’t have to look far in the world to see that these things are desired, commodified, admired, sometimes cherished, and more often exploited. And every girl possesses them.

I have watched as generations of girls desperately long to be something they already are. They diet and compare and shop for anything to help them look their best. In our youth, we blindly walk out the perils and the gifts of beauty.

In my debut young adult fantasy novel, Meg travels to a colorless other-earth where she is the only human in a royal city of strange, gray people. The elites of society prize Meg’s color for its rare traits, and seek to control it, even pressing her into an ancient, binding agreement with their king.

Her color is intrinsic, like all of our bodies, not something she chose. And it is what everyone sees when they look at her. The color puts her in danger, and it is a gift she carries. But she must decide who she will be in spite of that gift, and also because of it.

Just like all girls must choose to respond to a world that sees them for their bodies.

The Bible has something profound to say about the connection between our outer and inner selves in this verse from 1st Peter:
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self….”

Meg is a very flawed character and doesn’t make all the right choices along the way. (I don’t know many people in life who fully have, even if we’re trying.) But she does come to understand that being desired and being loved are two different things, a truth I want every girl in my life to grasp deeply. And if Meg’s identity comes from within, she will have to choose the path of loving others, even when it seems impossible.

Especially then.

Rachelle Nelson

Rachelle Nelson grew up reading fantasy novels and getting her clothes muddy in the pine forests of Idaho. These days, she still loves hiking through mountains and libraries, though she is a bit less fond of mud. She doesn’t write true stories, but she writes about truth. When Rachelle is not reading and writing, she sings in a band with her talented husband, who makes her happier than should be legal. If you like adventures, good food, and honest conversations, you are her favorite kind of person.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Rachelle is giving away the grand prize package of
a hardback copy of Sky of Seven Colors, a $50 Amazon gift card, a
signed bookplate, a set of 3 bookish themed waterproof stickers,
and a bookmark with exclusive Sky of Seven Colors character art!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/2716b/sky-of-seven-colors-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, August 17
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 18
Texas Book-aholic, August 19
Through the Fire Blogs, August 20 (Author Interview)
Christina’s Corner, August 20
Locks, Hooks and Books, August 21
Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 22
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 23
The Book Club Network, August 24
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 25
Blogging With Carol, August 26
Labor Not in Vain, August 27
Simple Harvest Reads, August 28 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Beauty in the Binding, August 29 (Author Interview)
Raining Butterfly Kisses, August 29
Of Blades and Thorns, August 30

6 Comments

Just Read Reviewer Tour - Sacred Fire by Karen Grunst

8/20/2023

1 Comment

A dream of belonging. A land seething with malice.
Can this budding peacemaker stand strong in the face of darkness?

Sarah longs to make a new life for herself in the coveted holy city. When a mysterious widow offers her a job there, she’s certain it’s an answer to her prayers. But Sarah finds the city smoldering with ancient hatreds…some directed at her.

Jacob is proud of his priestly heritage. Though he steadfastly holds to his learned traditions, the young man yearns to escape an arranged marriage and take control of his destiny. And he believes his moment has come when he rescues a servant girl who wields a sacred language long forgotten.

After thwarting a murderous riot, Sarah is plagued by alarming visions of a demon terrorizing the city. And Jacob vows to protect his new friend, even as their leaders pay no heed to their dire warnings.

Can this determined teen and her defender banish a ruthless foe and prevent an unholy catastrophe?

Sacred Fire is the whirlwind first book in The Sacred Fire Saga YA fantasy series. If you like courageous characters, powerful destinies, and slow-burn romance, then you’ll love Karen Grunst’s sweeping epic.

My Review

Will she find what she seeks in the holy city?

I'm always up for a good Christian or clean YA fantasy read. Be they fairytale retellings or epic fantasy, I enjoy every page even though I left that age group behind a number of years ago. I also like discovering new to me and debut authors so...when Sacred Fire caught my eye and it ticked all of those boxes I simply had to read it.

This may be Karen Grunst's first published novel, at least that I could find, but she really has a good series going here. Her fiction world features one of those realms where magic and faith reside together and it was definitely intriguing. That fact creates a lot of danger and mystery for our heroine and her learned hero which, in turn, provided some good reading hours for me.

This first Sacred Fire Saga novel was a slow build with thread after thread adding to the overall picture. I felt that the Karen Grunst did a good job telling a complete story within Sacred Fire but also laid down the foundation for further Sacred Fire Saga books. I, of course, will be definitely looking forward to more in the story.

Sacred Fire is aimed at a YA audience but Karen Grunst has penned a story that can be enjoyed by adults as well, or you could even read it aloud to your (grand)kids. That last one is something that I enjoyed my dad doing long into my own teenage years. So, why not dive into the Sacred Fire Saga for yourself and escape for a few hours into a world of mysterious writings and prophecies where one girl may be the catalyst that changes everything...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Sacred Fire by Karen Grunst a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

1 Comment

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Maeve's Pledge by Linda Shenton Matchett (Giveaway)

8/19/2023

8 Comments

Pledges can’t be broken, can they?

Finally, out from under her father’s tyrannical thumb, Maeve Wycliffe can live life on her terms. So what if everyone sees her as a spinster to be pitied. She’ll funnel her energies into what matters most: helping the less fortunate and getting women the right to vote. When she’s forced to team up with the local newspaper editor to further the cause, will her pledge to remain single get cropped?

Widower Gus Deighton sees no reason to tempt fate that he can find happiness a second time around. Well past his prime, who would want him anyway? He’ll continue to run his newspaper and cover Philadelphia’s upcoming centennial celebration. But when the local women’s suffrage group agrees that the wealthy, attractive, and very single Maeve Wycliffe acts as their liaison, he finds it difficult to remain objective.

Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release Date: March 21, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Linda

#1. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
My novellas typically take me about two months to complete. I outline my stories, so when I sit down to write, it’s easy for me to start. Unfortunately, I had unexpected surgery which derailed my plans somewhat. My recovery went well and on track with what the doctor told me to expect. However, I was sure I would be different from every other patient and heal faster and get my stamina back sooner. Didn’t happen that way, so I took over three months to complete the story. It was a lesson in patience for me and my characters!

#2. What drew you to write in this particular genre?
I adore history, but only because I discovered it after graduating from school. Unfortunately, most of my history teachers were dry, and the classes were all about dates, places, and names. Then I went to museums and historical sites where docents made the stories from history come alive. I want to do the same thing for my readers.

#3. Do you have favorite character(s) in this book?
I love Gus for several reasons. He’s older which means he’s seen a lot more of life, so he’s not easily shocked. He’s easy-going and takes things in stride, a trait I wish I had. He also is a stickler for the truth and for the full story, so he does he research before writing an article. But mostly because he’s compassionate. There’s a scene in which he interacts with a troubled young man where this quality comes through.

#4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
God’s plans are always best for us, and best of all, He never gives up on us.

#5. What one piece of advice would you like to give readers?
Read outside your normal genre. I’ve discovered new authors and books I’ve loved that I never would have if I’d stuck to historical romance.

More from Linda

When asked to contribute a story to the Suffrage Spinsters series, I immediately sat down and researched the suffrage movement. I was surprised to discover that the crusade to get women the right to vote began the 1830s. Nearly twenty years later, a women’s rights convention was held in Seneca Falls, New York, an event considered the actual “birthplace” of women’s suffrage.

The history of suffragism in America is fascinating because of the large percentage of women who were against getting the right to vote. As I continued to delve into the history of the movement, I unearthed many references to an incident that occurred at the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton decided to write a document similar to the US “Declaration of Independence,” call it the “Declaration of the Rights of Women,” and present it at the Exposition’s July 4th celebration.

Their request to speak was summarily dismissed, and in fact, few women were able to obtain tickets to the event.

Undeterred, Anthony came up with an alternate plan. On July 4th, in the midst of Richard Henry Lee’s speech (grandson and namesake of one of the Declaration of Independence signers), she marched down the aisle inside Independence Hall and handed a scroll tied in a festive navy-blue ribbon to the host, then turned and made her way out of the building, distributing copies to the clamoring crowd as she went. Outside, she read the document aloud as the remaining copies were distributed. Newspapers covered her presentation and printed portions of the document. Word spread, and countless newspapers outside of Philadelphia picked up the article.

I knew I had my story, and I hope in some small way Maeve’s Pledge honors those tenacious men and women who fought to gain women the right to vote.

Blessings,
Linda Shenton Matchett

Linda Shenton Matchet

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star-Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historical places all her life. She is a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum of WWII and a former trustee for her local public library. She now lives in central New Hampshire where she explores the history of this great state and immerses herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize package of
a $50 Visa Gift Card and signed copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/27320/maeve-s-pledge-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

By The Book, August 15 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 16
Simple Harvest Reads, August 17 (Author Interview)
For Him and My Family, August 17
Bizwings Book Blog, August 18
Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 19 (Author Interview)
Locks, Hooks and Books, August 20
Artistic Nobody, August 21 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, August 22
Stories By Gina, August 23 (Author Interview)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 23
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 24
Sylvan Musings, August 25 (Author Interview)
Connie’s History Classroom, August 26
The Book Club Network, August 27
Bliss, Books & Jewels, August 28 (Author Interview)

8 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - A Path To Forgiveness by Lisa M. James (Giveaway)

8/17/2023

3 Comments

Reckless. Extravagant. Wasteful. These were all words that could describe Esther. Thirteen years of careless living had left Esther and her young son destitute. When her husband disappears at night, leaving Esther with the full burden of their debt, Esther has no choice but to claim her husband is dead and enslave herself and her child to stay alive. So severely had she broken the relationships in her life, she never expected a man from her childhood to speak on her behalf and carry the weight of her debt. Yet Esther soon realizes that escaping the demons of her past would not be so easy.

Levi had little interest in seeing Esther again. When a promise to her father leaves him honor-bound to take her as his wife, he struggles with the bitterness he holds toward her for allowing her addictions and selfishness to derail her life. Yet, he could not hide the deep desire within him to be a husband and a father, even to a woman he did not love and a child that was not his by blood.

Discover the story of a reckless woman in A Path to Forgiveness.

Genre: Christian Fantasy
Release Date: January 21, 2022

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Can he forgive her? Can she forgive herself?

The Prodigal Son is a difficult story to retell and still keep it fresh and new as it's a story we all know by heart from those earliest days in Sunday school. But it is still an important faith lesson no matter how many times we've heard it. As I said, it takes some effort and care to breathe new life into the familiar while retaining that familiarity and I am pleased to say that Lisa M. James and her fantasy realm have done just that in A Path To Forgiveness...

The Prodigal Woman Series is part fantasy and part historical style romance and ever since reading the second book I have been quite curious about Esther and Levi's story. What precipitated her fall from grace and his decision to come to her rescue? How would this prodigal find her way to the Redeemer? And how does the war with dark sorcerers come into play? Well, to find that out, of course, you'll just have to read A Path To Forgiveness for yourself...

Well, I may have read the first two books in The Prodigal Woman Series in reverse but that did not affect my interest in the story at all. In fact, they can be read standalone as they, generally speaking, cover the same time period, just from the perspective of different characters. It actually surprises me how well Lisa M. James did, not only with a double first person perspective, but with blending the events between books 1 and 2. Needless to say, I am quite curious to read the third book when it comes out.

A Path To Forgiveness and its predecessor in Lisa M. James's The Prodigal Woman series are good reads for those who enjoy fantasy and stories that take on tougher topics with a redemption arc. Plus there are evil sorcerers and sword battles, so....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives A Path To Forgiveness by Lisa M. James a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from Lisa

I have always loved historical romances, especially ones that take place in Biblical times. However, I am not a historian and I love to make things up, which is why I write fantasy novels. A Path to Forgiveness was my first venture into Christian Romance set in a Fantasy world. If you enjoy historical romances, you will get a feel of that in the world I created since I am so greatly influenced by Biblical history.

A Path to Forgiveness is a story of repentance inspired by the parable of The Prodigal Son. Esther is a woman who feels unworthy of forgiveness. She believes she deserves to be punished for her choices. Levi is a man from her childhood, who does not disagree with her. His heart has grown hard from his own life experiences. In A Path to Forgiveness, they both go on a journey learning how to accept and receive God’s overflowing mercy and grace. I hope you enjoy reading Esther and Levi’s redemption story as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Lisa M. James

Lisa M. James is an independent author, product marketing manager, and former Sunday School teacher. She is also a regular guest blogger for various IT digital publications. She is committed to creating fantastical worlds with clean romances and diverse female leads. Her novels have hit the Amazon Best Sellers list for numerous categories, including: Sword and Sorcery Fantasy, Christian Fantasy, and Christian Romance. Her fictional writing is inspired by Historical Fiction, Fantasy genres, and Biblical Fiction. When not writing, Lisa loves talking about her faith, Disney movies, and football while drinking chai lattes.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Lisa is giving away the grand prize package of
a plum pansies print Vera Bradley bag and a copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/2716a/a-path-to-forgiveness-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, August 12 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 13
Guild Master, August 14 (Author Interview)
Blogging With Carol, August 14
Texas Book-aholic, August 15
Simple Harvest Reads, August 16 (Author Interview)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 17
Locks, Hooks and Books, August 18
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 19
Through the Fire Blogs, August 20 (Author Interview)
The Book Club Network, August 21
Artistic Nobody, August 22 (Author Interview)
For Him and My Family, August 22
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, August 23
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 24
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 25 (Author Interview)

3 Comments

Just Read Review Tour - Unseen Danger by Jerusha Agen

8/12/2023

1 Comment

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Unseen Danger by Jerusha Agen,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

This woman and her K-9 protect others. Now who will protect them?

After a brutal attack, it took Nevaeh Williams six years to rebuild her life. Now a security specialist at the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency, she faces danger nearly every day. But when an old friend is targeted, her fragile stability begins to crumble.
Celebrity bodyguard Branson Aaberg could lose more than his career if he fails to end the mysterious threat against his client. Soon he’s more concerned with rescuing the tough but vulnerable woman who joins his security team.
Nevaeh is there to protect her friend, but what if she needs protection? What if the feeling she’s being watched isn’t the result of her traumatized imagination? If the danger is real, Nevaeh's only hope for survival may be the God powerful enough to defeat her worst enemy—the one she doesn't see before it's too late.

Unseen Danger continues the thrilling story of the elite Phoenix K-9 Security and
Detection Agency that began with Hidden Danger (Guardians Unleashed, #1).
(Each book can stand alone or be read as series installments.)

Publisher: SDG Words, LLC
Release Date: July 27, 2023
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

My Review

Just who's past is catching up with them?

If there is one thing I can always count on with the Danger Unleashed series it's edge of your seat suspense, and Unseen Danger is no exception. Jerusha Agen had me guessing from early on as I gleefully tried to unravel all of the threads alongside Neveah and Branson – and of course, one cannot forget the very important Alvarez 'Al'...

I've been a real fan of romantic suspense since first discovering the genre over two decades ago. I enjoy the mix of romance and danger and trying to figure out the culprit(s) before it's too late just as much now as I did back then. It's authors like Jerusha Agen and series like Danger Unleashed that keep me eagerly coming back for more – the fact that this series features working K-9s also doesn't hurt either.

Unseen Danger was particularly interesting as it not only shows a person actively dealing with PTSD but Jerusha Agen also lets her Danger Unleashed heroine ask the difficult question of where is God when the unimaginable happens. I also appreciated Branson's struggles with giving an answer for

Unseen Danger has all of the best in Christian romantic suspense and you remain glued to the page from start to finish. There is no real putting this story down because you just HAVE to know what happens next. I can tell you that I am already anticipating the next adventure for the Phoenix K-9 Security team as I know it is sure to be good one...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Unseen Danger by Jerusha Agen a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

1 Comment

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Laws Of Attraction by Mary Connealy (Giveaway)

8/9/2023

4 Comments

Can they risk giving in to the attraction
between them while their lives are on the line?

If widowed seamstress Nell Armstrong has to make one more pair of boring chaps for the cowboys in her tiny Wyoming town, she might just quit the business altogether! So meeting Brand Nolte, a widower struggling to raise three girls on his own, seems like her dream come true. Brand has no idea how to dress the girls properly, and Nell finally has a chance to create beautiful outfits while also teaching the girls to sew.

But Nell is much more than a seamstress, and the investigative skills and knowledge she picked up alongside her late lawman husband soon become critical when a wounded stagecoach-robbery survivor is brought to town. As danger closes in from all sides, Nell and Brand must discover who has a target trained on them before it’s too late.

Genre: Historical Romance
Release Date: June 20, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Her surprise skills may save the day...

Reading a Mary Connealy novel is always fun and The Laws Of Attraction was no exception. This second Wyoming Sunrise novel delivered just as much romance, comedy, and edge of your seat danger. Needless to say, things might have gotten a little neglected around the house but I wasn't going to abandon Nell and Brand with the vicious Deadeye Gang bent on silencing all possible witnesses and obstacles...

The Wyoming Sunrise series has proven to be an entertaining one to read. Each of the heroines has a somewhat unusual job, Nell makes chaps though she would much rather make dresses, and they show their world exactly what a woman can do if given a chance and the need arises. Those needs arising just might include an additional, also unusual, job title for one of our heroines. Those jobs also provide some extra danger as well as humorous moments...

The overarching mystery in this series continued in The Laws Of Attraction and I can say that Mary Connealy had some intense moments and shocking revelations in store for delighted readers such as myself. Even I didn't see some of it coming, at least until I was part way into this book, and it is always fun to be surprised.

The Laws Of Attraction is another excellent read from the talented pen of Mary Connealy. Her brand of historical western comedy romance shines bright in her Wyoming Sunrise series and they are completely enjoyable. Honestly, you won't want to miss a one...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Laws Of Attraction by Mary Connealy a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from Mary

The Laws of Attraction, the idea of it, was what kicked off the whole Wyoming Sunrise series.

A woman justice of the peace.

Wyoming, oddly enough, was the first state in the union to give women the right to vote. And it wasn’t just voting, it was suffrage. That meant so much more than just voting. There were property rights involved, the right to serve on juries, and the right to run for office or be appointed to political offices.

Wyoming was the first state to have a woman justice of the peace. I read about Esther Hobart Morris and thought, hey, my heroine could be the second justice of the peace.

My heroine is a seamstress. Of the three heroines in the Wyoming Sunrise series, Nell, the heroine of book #2, is the one who is not in a traditionally masculine role. In book #1 Mariah is a blacksmith. In book #3 Becky is a lady rancher.

Nell just wants to sew pretty dresses and make beautiful bonnets. She likes to tat her own lace. She likes flowery fabric and lots of ruffles.

And then she moved to Wyoming. Nine thousand total residence and five men for every one woman. And the few women who are there all sew their own dresses.

To add to that, Nell, a widow, didn’t have a happy first marriage. She has no interest in marrying again. Staying single in a state like Wyoming isn’t easy, but she’s managed it. Her first husband was a lawman, and when a band of stagecoach robbers are plaguing the area, Nell finds she’s got skills to investigate these crimes that far exceed the local sheriff.

The sheriff is impressed, and when the town’s justice of the peace resigns, the sheriff appoints Nell.

I just had so much fun with this book. Nell is frustrated because she isn’t getting to make dresses. She does discover a talent for working with leather and making chaps. She hates it, but the orders just keep pouring in and she’s making a tidy living. Not having a lot of fun but definitely prospering.

And then a local homesteader with three half-grown daughters, all of whom desperately need a new dress, runs across Nell, and she wheels and deals him into letting her make them in exchange for his daughters working for her, making chaps.

Nell’s talent for investigating crimes soon puts her in danger. And Brandon Nolte, her best customer, finds himself, Nell, and his girls all surrounded by danger.

The Laws of Attraction—fun, fast-paced, and love is the most fundamental law of all.

Mary Connealy

Mary Connealy (www.maryconnealy.com) writes “romantic comedies with cowboys” and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has sold more than 1.5 million books. She is the author of the popular series Brothers in Arms, Brides of Hope Mountain, High Sierra Sweethearts, The Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, Lassoed in Texas, Sophie’s Daughters, and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Mary is giving away
a $15 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/26d5b/the-laws-of-attraction-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 29
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 29
Texas Book-aholic, July 30
For Him and My Family, July 30
Connie’s History Classroom, July 31
Book Looks by Lisa, July 31
lakesidelivingsite, August 1
Lighthouse Academy Blog, August 1 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
Locks, Hooks and Books, August 2
Mary Hake, August 2
Betti Mace, August 3
Cover Lover Book Review, August 3
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 4
The Book Nook, August 4
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 5
She Lives To Read, August 6
Labor Not in Vain, August 6
Daysong Reflections, August 7
Holly’s Book Corner, August 7
Splashes of Joy, August 8
JESUS in the EVERYDAY, August 8
Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 9
Pause for Tales, August 10
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, August 10
Jeanette’s Thoughts, August 11
Wishful Endings, August 11

4 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Rebecca by Shannon McNear (Giveaway)

8/5/2023

3 Comments

A Native Princess Follows Her Heart

Immerse yourself in the “what if” questions related to the Lost Colony of Roanoke when a native princess meets an English widower.

Born the daughter of a Powhatan chieftain and a woman of unknown origins, Matoaka enjoys a carefree life. When strange men from across the eastern waters appear near her home, she regards them at first as a mere curiosity. Soon, though, she finds herself torn between friendship with one of their leaders and the opinions and politics of her elders. Drawn to a young Englishman, John Rolfe, who has lost a wife and baby daughter, she shares his griefs. . .and perhaps something more. Could she have a future among the English of Jamestown, accepting their ways and even changing her name? Could her fate be a part of the lasting legacy of the Lost Colony of Roanoke?

Author Shannon McNear portrays history with vivid authenticity.

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical Romance
Release Date: July, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Her story is that of history...

Like millions of others I have been fascinated by the lost colony of Roanoke and by the tragically short – but eventful – life of Pocohontas. In this third Daughters Of The Lost Colony novel, Shannon McNear takes on the what ifs and might-have-beens with both stories and the fictional thread that binds them together in Rebecca.

I can tell you straight out that this story ain't no Disney film. There is no colorful animation or catchy songs. No, Rebecca is a look into the past with all of its warts. Just as the real people would have been, Shannon McNear's characters deal with fear, prejudice on all sides, and there are good and bad people in all colors. Those who strive for good lean on faith and family to see them through dark times while others give into their own darkness and do the unpardonable. The toughest part was really liking some of the characters and knowing what was going to eventually happen...

There were times that this Daughters Of The Lost Colony was a bit hard to read, but, then again, history so often is just that. However, it is also a story of love and hope. Two things that have allowed people to overcome the most insurmountable of odds.

Rebecca is quite the story and if you have read the previous Daughters Of The Lost Colony it's one you won't want to miss. Great for fans of history and historical fiction, Shannon McNear has done well with it, just as she did with the first two...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Rebecca by Shannon McNear a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from Shannon

Daughters of the Lost Colony—how are we at book 3 already? I’m both excited and nervous about this one, which features Pocahontas and the original Jamestown. Why did I choose her, and this place, when the overall series is about the Lost Colony?

Among their various other aims, the Jamestown colonists were charged with finding the Roanoke Colony. John Smith’s own reports reference this, and one can sense his discouragement and frustration over their inability to find answers on the fate of those who came to the New World before them. William Strachey, early secretary to the colony, stated that Powhatan (that is, the paramount chieftain often called by the same name as his people group) had slain the last known survivors of the Roanoke Colony. But nowhere is that claim substantiated.

There were no solid historical connections between the Lost Colony and Pocahontas—so I created a plausible fictional one in the form of Emme Merrimoth, a historically documented member of the Roanoke Colony who in book 1, Elinor, experienced the fictional adventure of being carried captive to the Powhatan nation. Where Strachey lists the names of the paramount chieftain’s favored wives, I put Emme in the place of the real-life Winganuske.

I knew the research would be challenging on this one. What I didn’t expect was to find Emme’s aspect of this story so compelling—or to fall in love with Wahunsenecawh, the great Powhatan himself. The name alone is intimidating, but you can find sound clips of how to pronounce it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Q_10PYf_0U and here: https://www.nameslook.com/wahunsenacawh/ (ignore the weird stuff and click on the little red arrows for different voices). There are at least five or six documented ways to spell it, and the one I picked is probably the most obscure. I had a year to get used to saying it, but repeat after me, slowly: wah-HUN-senacoh. Or wah-HOON-senacah, depending upon which rule you use for the U in Algonquian pronunciation, and how you interpret that “wh” at the end.

Names overall were an issue with this story. A few reviewers have already mentioned this difficulty. The thing is, in Native culture, especially what we know of the Eastern Algonquian-speaking peoples, a name wasn’t simply a casual identifier—it defined a person’s entire identity. We don’t know what most of the names recorded from that time meant, but we can be sure they weren’t chosen lightly, and they were valued by those who held them. Indeed, a change of name often accompanied a change of purpose. It has even been suggested that if the English had been paying attention, they’d have realized when Opechancanough changed his name shortly before the great attack of 1622, it signaled a critical shift in his attitude toward them.

So when you read this story, you may find it helpful to keep a finger in the cast list—or to place a bookmark on that page if you’re reading the Kindle version. Thank you so much, again, for taking this journey with me!

Shannon McNear

Transplanted to North Dakota after more than two decades in Charleston, South Carolina, Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. She’s a military wife, mom of eight, mother-in-law of three, grammie of two, and a member of ACFW and RWA. Her first novella, Defending Truth in A Pioneer Christmas Collection, was a 2014 RITA® finalist. When she’s not sewing, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, basking in the beauty of the northern prairies. Connect with her at www.shannonmcnear.com, or on Facebook and Goodreads.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Shannon is giving away the grand prize package of
a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/26d59/rebecca-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, July 27
Texas Book-aholic, July 28
Cover Lover Book Review, July 29
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 30
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 30
Locks, Hooks and Books, July 31
Alena Mentink, July 31
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 1
Connie’s History Classroom , August 2
For Him and My Family, August 3
Mary Hake, August 3
Holly’s Book Corner, August 4
Sylvan Musings, August 4
Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 5
Pause for Tales, August 6
Betti Mace, August 7
Books Less Travelled, August 7
To Everything There Is A Season, August 8
Lights in a Dark World, August 9

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Anne by Rena Groot (Giveaway)

8/3/2023

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It is 1881. Anne is 19, a widow travelling on the Oregon Trail. She has no option, but to travel with her husband’s murderer. As she struggles to survive on the unforgiving trail, Anne must confront her own doubts and fears. Will she succumb to the darkness in her heart and seek vengeance at any cost? Or will she find the strength to forgive, and discover a path to redemption and healing? With each step she takes, Anne must face the harsh realities of life on the frontier and the deep mysteries of faith, trust, and grace. She dreams of revenge…but God has other plans.

Genre: Historical Romantic Fiction
Release Date: 2023

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Rena

#1. What drew you to write in this particular genre?
My friend Caryl McAdoo seemed confident I could write a Prairie Rose Collection book…so upon her invitation I wrote Rose. I loved reading settler’s accounts of their travels. This is my second Prairie Rose book.

#2. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
I hope my book inspires a greater faith, hope, and trust in God.

#3. Tell us a little about yourself, your family, friends.
I am engaged to be married July 21st, to my favorite man in the entire world. We have been friends for nine years, and God has recently shown us He has bigger plans for us than friendship. It’s funny, a year ago I wanted to do an ocean scene resin pour painting. I thought my friend Bill (who lives in another city) would like it as he has a salt water aquarium and loves fish, the ocean, etc. I messaged him to see if he was interested. He had just bought a new house and was about to ask me if he could get a Rena painting. Well, a year later, I dropped off the painting at my friend Bill’s house on my way to my sister’s wedding. On the way back from the wedding Bill took me for a thank you lunch. It was amazing—it’s like God opened our eyes to each other. Our friendship quickly morphed into more. I love my friends. They are like family.

#4. If you could change one thing in your life, past or present, what would it be?
I wouldn’t change anything. God had a purpose for everything. He used all the circumstances of my life to make me into the person I am.

#5. What one piece of advice would you like to give readers?
Trust God. No matter what the circumstances in your life, believe God has allowed it for your good. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Thanks for reading my book, Jasmine.
Blessings,
Rena Groot

More from Rena

Rena Groot

I am an artist, writer, online course creator (Broken to Beautiful…rena-groot.mykajabi.com), B & B host, have a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Religious Education, have been a teacher in Canada and China, a tour manager from the Rockies to the Pacific, and God has given me the honor of being an ambassador with “The Department of Eternal Affairs” to so many cool places—He must have laughed knowing His plans for me…that one day I would be praying with a voodoo queen in Haiti, another day leading a dying woman to Jesus in a hut in Belize, another day sharing the love of Jesus as an earthquake shook the Earth under my feet. God is beyond amazing. I started a blog to bless, encourage, and sometimes challenge people. Here’s the link. renagroot.com.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Rena is giving away the grand prize package of
a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/26f4b/anne-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

By The Book, August 1 (Author Interview)
Madi’s Musings, August 1
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 2
Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 3 (Author Interview)
Locks, Hooks and Books, August 4
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 5 (Author Interview)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 5
Texas Book-aholic, August 6
Sylvan Musings, August 7 (Author Interview)
Books You Can Feel Good About, August 8
The Book Club Network, August 9
Connie’s History Classroom, August 10
Bliss, Books & Jewels, August 11 (Author Interview)
For Him and My Family, August 12
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 13
Lily’s Book Reviews, August 14

4 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Ranch Showdown by Tina Wheeler (Giveaway)

8/2/2023

8 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Ranch Showdown by Tina Wheeler,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Seeking refuge at a ranch…
Has fiery consequences...

After being threatened by her sister’s ex, Sierra Lowery has forty-eight hours to surrender documents linking him to a bombing before he kills her and kidnaps her nephew. With the evidence missing and anyone who helps becoming a target, hiding out with Detective Cole Walker, her college sweetheart, might be her only chance for survival. But as explosives detonate in the wake of their search, their ranch safe haven could become a dangerous trap.

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: July 25, 2023
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

Also Available

My Review

He may be her one chance at survival...

Wow, if you love a story where the stakes are high and the danger never lets up...well...I just might have the story for you. Ranch Showdown is another wild Love Inspired Suspense ride from author Tina Wheeler. It kept me turning those pages anxiously wanting to know what was going to happen next.

Loosely tied in with Tina Wheeler's previous Love Inspired Suspense book, Ranch Under Fire, it was a lot of fun it was a lot of fun to see some familiar faces in Ranch Showdown as well as getting to 'meet' some new ones. It is also nice that the two books can be read standalone or in order for even more reading enjoyment.

Ranch Showdown was a good read, one that I finished in pretty short order on a hot summer day when I needed to escape the heat into a good story. Tina Wheeler provided that escape with an exciting book that kept me entertained and intrigued from start to finish. It's as I always say, you can't go wrong with a good Love Inspired Suspense novel...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Ranch Showdown by Tina Wheeler a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Tina Wheeler

Tina Wheeler is a Publishers Weekly Bestselling Author and retired teacher. Although she grew up on the edge of the desert in Arizona, her favorite place to plot a new story is on a balcony overlooking the ocean. She enjoys spending time with her large extended family, brainstorming with writing friends, discovering new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.
Connect with Tina by visiting authortinawheeler.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(2) winners will win a signed, print copy of
Ranch Showdown and a $15 dollar Amazon egift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 31, 2023 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on August 7, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and
given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject toJustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

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