Tell Tale Book Reviews

Book Review - A Match In The Making by Jen Turano

3/17/2023

Genre:
Historical Romance / Romantic Comedy

A Match In The Making
The Matchmakers book 1
by Jen Turano

-From Goodreads-

Miss Gwendolyn Brinley accepted a temporary paid companion position for the Newport summer season, believing it would be a lark to spend the summer in America's most exclusive town. She suddenly finds her summer turning anything but amusing when her employer expects her to take over responsibilities as an assistant matchmaker. Tasked with the daunting prospect of attaining advantageous matches for her clients, Gwendolyn soon finds herself in the company of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond annoying.

Walter is reluctantly in search of a wife for his unruly motherless children. What he wasn't expecting was Miss Brinley, who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle.

The more time they spend together throughout the Newport Season, the harder it is for Gwendolyn to find Walter a wife when she realizes his perfect match might be . . . her.

USA Today bestselling author Jen Turano's trademark wit, sweet romance, and hilarious mischief will keep you turning the pages of this lively Gilded Age tale.

ISBN-13: ‎978-0764240201

He has met his match in his matchmaker...

If I wasn't already a diehard Jen Turano fan the title of this newest series, The Matchmakers, would have intrigued me enough to check it out and A Match In The Making would have sold me on it.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Jen Turano

Author Website

A Match In The Making has all of the charm and humor that I've come to expect from Jen Turano. Her historical romantic comedy never fails to be a cut above the rest and this start to her new The Matchmakers series is proving that to be as true as ever. Each story and its main characters are unique but the hilarious hijinks and romantic sparks are there and they are what keeps me coming back for each new story.

A Match In The Making was a completely delightful read. By turns Jen Turano had me laughing out loud and wanting to drop a frog onto the laps of those snooty society ladies. But, oh, some of the antics of the other characters more than made up for my inability to reach through a fictional book. Let's just say that you should never yell “Rat!” while everyone is dressed up in their Sunday best... At any rate I sincerely enjoyed the inaugural The Matchmakers novel and I am highly anticipating the next book in the series...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives A Match In The Making by Jen Turano a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Just Read Blog Tour - The Whisperer's Wish by Janilise Lloyd (Giveaway)

3/16/2023

4 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Whisperer's Wish by Janilise Lloyd,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

For sixteen years, Laurelin Moore has been keeping a secret. She is a whisperer, and she knows that to reveal her gift now is a dangerous risk. Past whisperers have been exploited for their power. But Ausland’s queen is dead and acknowledging her magic is her only chance at becoming a Rook in the Pentax—a competition that will decide the kingdom’s next ruler.

Laurelin isn’t in it for the crown, though. She’s after the wish that will be granted to the victor. A wish that would save her dying brother, Pippin. But there are dangerous undercurrents to the competition, and Laurelin finds herself at the center of it. She begins to search for answers and discovers a secret with the potential to shatter the entire kingdom.

Publisher: Expanse Books (Imprint of Scrivenings Press)
Release Date: March 21, 2023
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

My Review

Winning means life or death...

Over the last three or four months I have been reading a lot of fantasy – from fairytale retellings to dystopian and even a touch of Steampunk. Maybe it's and escape from the world continuing to be turned upside down, maybe it's the need for the good guys to win despite all odds, and maybe it's just love of a good story...

The Whisperer's Wish started out a little slow for me, but, oh, once it got started... Boy, did it! It may be a little under 300 pages but there was no way I was putting it down. I totally gave up on the “just one more chapter” line and simply went with it wherever Janilise Lloyd was taking me.

Janilise Lloyd's worldbuilding is excellent in The Whisperer's Wish. The blend of familiar and fantastical is spot on and it completely captivates you and draws you even farther into the story. And what a vividly painted story it is! The diversity in landscape, peoples, and creatures – plus the Pentax itself – is imaginative and sparks the imagination at the same time.

The Whisperer's Wish is definitely aimed at a YA audience but I can tell you from personal experience that this thirty-something adult enjoyed just as much as she would have as a tween or teen. So, whether you have kids or you are an adult who enjoys a good dystopian fantasy tale I would definitely recommend you check out this story from Janilise Lloyd...it's a good one...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Whisperer's Wish by Janilise Lloyd a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

Janilise Lloyd

Janilise Lloyd is a former junior high school teacher who lives in Northern Utah with her husband and toddler. She balances a love for running with a love for all things dessert. Her family likes to be on the go, so you will often catch them at the zoo, the park, or skipping rocks by the river. Janilise is the coordinator for the ScrivKids writing community for student writers and is a member of the Storymakers Guild. You can find her on Instagram or Facebook @janiliselloyd or on her website, janiliselloyd.com.
Connect with Janilise by visiting janiliselloyd.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card, a signed copy of
the paperback (ebook if outside US), and character art print.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 14, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST
on March 21, 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 for print copy & art print. 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 - Honor's Mountain Promise by Misty M. Beller (Giveaway)

3/11/2023

4 Comments

They both need a new start, but this looks
nothing like either of them planned.

Aaron Long never expected his life to turn out this way—finally on the right side of the law, but with a bum leg and driving a freight wagon through the wild Rocky Mountains. The only excitement left in his days is his newfound faith. But in the midst of an urgent deliver to settlers fort, the last thing he expects is to discover a woman great with child who pleads for him to take her back to Fort Benton—the opposite direction from Settler’s Fort. He can’t leave her, but he also can’t take her where she wants to go.

Katie Barlowe rarely had a say in how her life would go, not even when she married the successful businessman her parents selected for her. Nor when he brought her all the way to the Montana Territory to start a ranch in these breathtaking and treacherous mountains.

She’s a widow now and determined to take control of her future and that of the new life growing inside her. To do so, she must get back to civilization—before the babe is born. When she finally finds a freighter who will take her the first leg of her journey east, all seems to be finally falling into place. Until her transporter is killed and she’s faced with a stranger who will only agree to take her to a little mining town far from Fort Benton and the steamship to carry her home.

When Aaron and Katie set out through the mountain winter, the journey ahead will change their lives more than they could have known.

Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: March 5, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Will he rescue her or will she rescue him?

I must admit that I was quite surprised when I spotted this little book from Misty M. Beller. I had read the 3 books in her Hearts Of Montana series and thought that was it...and it was...until Honor's Mountain Promise finally gives some much desired answers to the infamous Aaron Long...

Honor's Mountain Promise was a quick read at just a little over 160 pages and I finished it in pretty much a single sitting in one afternoon. However, Misty M. Beller packs plenty of story – and danger for her characters – within those pages. I will tell you a secret...my favorite characters were probably not the ones you would expect, heir names were Cain, Abel, and Barney. But, you will have to read the book to find out who they might be...

This 4th Hearts Of Montana book is well worth the time spent reading – especially if you are a fan of the series. It's roughly novella length makes it a perfect afternoon escape into the 19th century wintry Montana wilderness...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Honor's Mountain Promise by Misty M. Beller a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Misty

When the Other Brother Finally Gets His Story

Have you ever read a series that needed just one more book? A significant side character needed their story told?

That’s been the case with my Hearts of Montana series for two years now! I thought I’d wrapped up the series with book 3, Faith’s Mountain Home, which features Nate and Laura as they unravel the mystery around a cave near their Montana frontier town. Nate’s twin brother Aaron played a strong part in that story—and not always as one of the good guys. He was recovering from a gunshot wound that shattered his thighbone, and Laura (the heroine) was his nurse and chief physical therapy sergeant. In those dark days during his recovery, Aaron made some poor choices and definitely wasn’t the best version of himself.

By the end of Faith’s Mountain Home, Aaron saw the change in his twin brother Nate and how his new faith made him different—a better man. In one of the last scenes, Aaron apologizes to Laura for how he’s made her job harder when she was trying so hard to help him. We even get a ray of hope that Aaron might be opening himself up to God’s redeeming power.

Ever since that book released, readers and I have both been looking for Aaron’s story! The book where he finds his own leading lady and becomes the man God created him to be (but not without major obstacles along the way!)
Even if you haven’t read the other books in the series, I think you’ll love Aaron’s story in Honor’s Mountain Promise as much as I did.

Praying blessings for you!
Misty

Misty M. Beller

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.
Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.
Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.
Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/24947/honor-s-mountain-promise-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 1
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 1
Texas Book-aholic, March 2
deb’s Book Review, March 3
Locks, Hooks and Books, March 4
Books You Can Feel Good About, March 4
Splashes of Joy, March 5
Cover Lover Book Review, March 5
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 6
Pause for Tales, March 6
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 7
Connie’s History Classroom, March 7
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 8
Through the Fire Blogs, March 9
Holly’s Book Corner, March 9
Blossoms and Blessings, March 10
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 11
For Him and My Family, March 12
Christina’s Corner, March 12
Betti Mace, March 13
Mary Hake, March 13
Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 14

4 Comments

Just Read Reviewer Tour - The Glass Road by Alyssa Schwarz

3/10/2023

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Austin Wright had bigger dreams than to inherit his grandfather’s old property, but with the help of his nephew and a few volunteers, he decides to reopen the idyllic summer camp of his youth.

Following her accident at the first triathlon of the season, Tess Prescott’s dreams of the Olympics are shattered, and when her brother volunteers her to work at his friend’s summer camp, she is anything but pleased. Determined to make the best of a bad situation, and to keep herself busy while she recovers, she reluctantly agrees, and ultimately learns the joy of being part of a team.

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, two people must learn to work together if they have any chance of making it through this season of change—even if it means sacrificing the dreams they once strove so hard to protect. But one unexpected secret could have the power to unravel it all.

My Review

A summer at camp changes everything...

Sometimes it's nice to take a break from whatever genre you've been reading lately and just dive into a simple sweet romance. Something uncomplicated that doesn't leave you guessing. Something that you know will have a happy ending once the characters sort out at least some of their baggage and take the time to notice that the other person just might be someone special.

No, I don't tend to a read a lot of such books but I almost always enjoy them when I do. The Glass Road was one such instance. Since I had read the first Prescott Family Romance I was already poised to enjoy this second book in Alyssa Schwarz's series – which is exactly what I did.

The Glass Road was also a fun book to read. The hijinks of the campers were amusing and the battle with a very persistent woodpecker was just plain funny. Heart tugging moments and a romance that slowly builds over the course of a crazy summer rounded out this second Prescott Family Romance quite nicely. As I said, I enjoyed this story and will be looking forward to the next book in this series from Alyssa Schwarz...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Glass Road by Alyssa Schwarz a 4 Bark rating

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

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Epic Book Launch - Amish Wilderness Survival by Mary Alford

3/9/2023

1 Comment

To stay alive,
she must escape a killer’s clutches

When her brother goes missing, Leora Mast will do anything to find him…even if it means putting her life in danger. Upon arriving in Montana, she finds an ally in Fletcher Shetler, but almost as soon as they meet, they’re running for their lives. With Fletcher’s help, Leora must unravel the truth about her brother’s disappearance…before the man who wants them dead tracks them down.

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Genre: Amish Suspense
Release date: March 28, 2023

Excerpt from Amish Wilderness Survival

He stared out the kitchen window at the growing clouds hovering near the mountain range near his West Kootenai, Montana, home. The shots he’d heard earlier could have come from anywhere...or they could have come from the same direction as Ethan’s place. With the mountains so close, sound could be distorted by echoing off them.

Because of Fletcher and his bruder Mason’s affiliation with the search and rescue program, the bishop in their district had allowed them to carry cell phones. Fletcher had been trying to reach his friend unsuccessfully for a couple of days.

Coming from a close-knit family with four other bruders, Fletcher had gotten used to looking out for those he loved, and Ethan was like family. Still, as a former marine, Ethan Connors was more than capable of taking care of himself. He’d proved this time and again. So why was Fletcher so worried? Maybe it had been the look of concern in Ethan’s eyes when he’d told Fletcher about the trip, or the fact Ethan rarely went a day without touching base with either Fletcher or Mason.

Mary Alford

Mary Alford is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than fifty novels. Her books have been finalists in the Selah Award, the Daphne du Maurier Award, and the HOLT Medallion Contest. As a writer, Mary is an avid reader. She loves to cook and can’t face the day with-out coffee. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two very spoiled cats and one adorable rescue dog. Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Facebook and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net.

Blog Stops

Excerpt One: http://amandanicolle.blogspot.com/2023/03/amish-wilderness-survival.html?m=1

Excerpt Two: http://montanamade.weebly.com/tell-tale-book-reviews/epic-book-launch-amish-wilderness-survival-by-mary-alford

Excerpt Three: http://www.simpleharvestreads.com/posts/amish-wilderness-survival-book-excerpt/

Excerpt Four: https://catsinthecradle.blog/2023/02/18/amish-wilderness-survival-epic-book-launch/

Excerpt Five: https://nannie3.blogspot.com/2023/02/amish-wilderness-survival.html?m=1

Excerpt Six: https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2023/02/17/amish-wilderness-survival-epic-book-launch/

Excerpt Seven: https://guildmaster97.wordpress.com/2023/03/08/amish-wilderness-survival-epic-book-launch-and-excerpt/

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - In Spotlight And Shadow by Rachel Scott McDaniel (Giveaway)

3/8/2023

3 Comments

A Gem of a Mystery Takes Center Stage
Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series
of historical stories of romance and adventure.

Elise Malvern has a habit of letting people down. Her former boyfriend who hoped she’d be his bride. Her grandfather who hoped she’d take over the family’s auction company. But mostly she’s disappointed herself. What’s the point of pursuing her passion as a violinist, if she is too scared to audition for a seat in the Pittsburgh Symphony? Her internship at the elegant Heinz Hall places her in the wings of the stage, but never on it. By accident, she discovers an old stage prop. Her instincts tell her there’s more to the paste necklace than meets the eye. Whether a good idea or not, she accepts help from a childhood friend, who happens to be country music megastar—Peirson Brooks. Peirson and Elise share a history; one she doesn’t care to repeat. The more involved they become in the mystery, the more things get tangled, including her heart.

A century earlier…
Sophie Walters longs for center stage, her name on the marquee, and all that jazz, but climbing her way into an acting career is more difficult than she imagined. Having spoiled all her chances in Hollywood, she returns to Pittsburgh, accepting an insignificant role in a popular production. She watches her dreams pass by from behind the curtain at the illustrious Loew’s Penn Theatre. She finally gets the coveted spotlight, but not for her talent. No, her surge to fame is all one terrible mistake. Somehow, she’s suspected to be a notorious jewel thief known around Pittsburgh as The Mirage. The man she pleads for help is none other than the man she jilted at the altar five years before, Sterling Monroe.

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical Fiction / Mystery / Romance
Release date: February 1, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Sometimes the present mirrors the past...

I love a good mystery and I love history. I also enjoy dual timeline stories and books set in the 1920s. So, what happens when you blend all of those elements into a single book? Well, you get Rachel Scott McDaniel's last novel...

I'll be honest right at the start, In Spotlight And Shadow has got to be one of my favorite books in the Doors To The Past series. It had just the right balance of mystery/intrigue and heartfelt emotion as Rachel Scott McDaniel skillfully wove the layers of past and present together. It also had the most spectacular historical building as the common denominator between the dual timelines. But what really captured my attention, aside from the careful unveiling of decades of secrets, was the parallel struggles of the two girls as they must face their own fears and insecurities – and pain from the past.

I quite enjoyed In Spotlight And Shadow and this 11th Doors To The Past novel really kept me flipping those pages. While I did guess the thief's identity, there were quite a few secrets and motivations that flat out surprised me along the way. This book was the perfect way to spend a lazy winter day...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives In Spotlight And Shadow by Rachel Scott McDaniel a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

More from Rachel

HISTORY OF THE LOEW’S PENN/HEINZ HALL THEATER

The Loew’s Penn theater in Pittsburgh opened its doors on September 6, 1927. Thousands of Pittsburghians crammed the streets hoping to enter. Those who were fortunate to claim a seat gasped at the grandeur of what that has been billed the ‘Temple of Cinema.’ The new hotspot in the Steel City was regarded as the most magnificent theater between New York and Chicago.

The Loew’s Penn was five stories high and could seat over 3,000 guests. The grand lobby had a 50-foot-high vaulted Venetian ceiling, gilded Corinthian columns, and two spectacular chandeliers. The crystal for the chandeliers was imported from Vienna. From silk drapes to artwork by Renaissance masters to Italian marble staircases the theater seemed more like a museum than a cinema palace. As for the entertainment, the night began with a live stage show followed by a silent film feature.

Attendance averaged around 60,000 theatergoers a week. And with an admission charge of $.50, the theater made around $30,000 a week. Which was a substantial fortune during the 1920s. The theater hosted live stage shows and they also brought in national acts including Paul Whiteman and the Rhtyhm Boys featuring Bing Crosby. Also Buster Keaton and Eddie Cantor graced the stage.

Over the years, the allure of the Loew’s Penn faded, and the theater fell into disrepair, finally shutting its doors in 1968. The Howard Heinz Endowment purchased the building, saving it from demolition. After a 16-month renovation that had cost over $11 million, the doors opened yet again under the new name of Heinz Hall. The plush red carpet is bold and beautiful, but also a subtle nod to … you guessed it … Heinz Ketchup. The grand lobby features the original marble flooring as well as the two 15-foot chandeliers. The main auditorium seats 2,661 guests. Heinz Hall is now the home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra it also hosts concerts and Broadway touring companies.

Rachel Scott McDaniel

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. Rachel can be found online at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com and on all social media platforms. Her work is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency. Rachel resides in Ohio with her husband and two children.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/24705/in-spotlight-and-shadow-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, February 25
Melissa’s Bookshelf, February 25
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 26
Just Your Average reviews, February 26
Rebecca Tews, February 26
Where Faith and Books Meet, February 27
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 27
deb’s Book Review, February 28
Simple Harvest Reads, February 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 1
Blogging With Carol, March 1
Remembrancy, March 2
Connie’s History Classroom, March 2
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 3
Betti Mace, March 3
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 4
Cover Lover Book Review, March 4
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 5 (Author Interview)
Christina’s Corner, March 5
Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, March 5
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 6
For Him and My Family, March 6
Through the Fire Blogs, March 7
Bigreadersite, March 7
lakesidelivingsite, March 8
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 8
For the Love of Literature, March 8
Blossoms and Blessings, March 9
Holly’s Book Corner, March 9
Labor Not in Vain, March 9
Book Looks by Lisa, March 10
Pause for Tales, March 10

3 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham (Giveaway)

3/5/2023

1 Comment

Clue meets Indiana Jones with a fiction-loving
twist only Grace Percy can provide.

Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley have already experienced their fair-share of suspense, but when a honeymoon trip takes a detour to the mystical land of Egypt, not even Grace with her fiction-loving mind is prepared for the dangers in store. From an assortment of untrustworthy adventure-seekers to a newly discovered tomb with a murderous secret, Frederick and Grace must lean on each other to navigate their dangerous surroundings. As the suspects mount in an antiquities’ heist of ancient proportions, will Frederick and Grace’s attempts to solve the mystery lead to another death among the sands?

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical Fiction / Romance / Adventure / Mystery
Release date: February 1, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Nothing says 'honeymoon' like murder and mayhem...

I'm always up for a good adventure story set in the sands and tombs of Egypt. Very rarely do I run into one that I dislike and The Cairo Curse proved that rule to still be very true – don't worry, I liked it. Anyway, it has all of the mystery – and surprisingly the comedy – that a person might wish for in a historical romance.

I will admit that I have not read the first Freddie And Grace Mystery but as I had hoped I was still able to enjoy this second book in the series anyway. Pepper Basham did a great job writing a story that is definitely connected to its predecessor but can still be enjoyed as a complete story of its own.

While The Cairo Curse probably isn't my favorite book with an Egyptology theme, that would be Linda Chaikin's Egypt Trilogy, I can easily tell you that it is my favorite Pepper Basham book that I have read. The mix of humor and murder mystery was quite entertaining. The Egypt on the eve of WWI (1914) setting of this Freddie And Grace Mystery was an excellent one. It was an exciting time in Egyptology and in the world making it the perfect backdrop for a tale of murder, intrigue, and discovery.

I did enjoy reading The Cairo Curse and I think after this I will likely not be a stranger to Pepper Basham's Freddie And Grace Mysteries...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham a 4 Bark rating.

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

Read an Excerpt from The Cairo Curse!

February 1914, Havensbrook

Gunfire erupted from outside, sending Frederick Percy, Earl of Astley, leaping from his chair. The seat crashed against the floor behind him in time with another shot. What on earth! He grabbed the first weapon-like item he could find—his grandfather’s cane—and dashed toward the sound, nearly colliding with his butler moving in the same direction.

“Did you hear the gunfire, Brandon?”

The older gentleman’s brows rose as high as they could go without becoming part of his snowy hairline. “Indeed, my lord. From the south garden, if I guess correctly, sir.”

“My thoughts exactly.” Frederick tapped the cane against the floor and took a step in the direction of the garden door. Then stopped, a sudden sense of dread forming a lump in his stomach. His butler’s response was much too cavalier for an emergency. “Have you seen Lady Astley of late, Brandon?”

“Not since after breakfast, sir.”

“Well, then.” Frederick returned to his office for his own pistol and prayed whatever inspired a gunshot near his home would prove more benign than dangerous. After surviving several near-death experiences over the past Christmas season, Frederick was quite finished with drama for a while. Though drama seemed to follow his new bride in spades.

He met the butler back in the hallway.

“Might I offer an insight, sir?”

Frederick pivoted in his approach to the door and turned back to Brandon. “Insight?”

“Yes, sir.” The man released a deep sigh which pulled his pristine posture into a slight slump. He then sent Frederick a look which somehow inspired a grimace before Frederick even heard the man’s words. “Her ladyship was speaking with Mr. Blake after breakfast, sir.”

“Mr. Blake?” Frederick rolled his gaze heavenward, the tension in his jaw uncoiling into a slight annoyance that manifested in an ache over his right eyebrow. He loved his cousin. There was no man Frederick trusted more. But for some reason, the idea of Blake and Grace together followed by the sound of gunfire did not bode well.

For anyone.

“About pistols, my lord.”

And the answers emerged, along with an increased throbbing in Frederick’s head. “Thank you, Brandon.”

Setting a slower pace, he moved toward the south side of his manor house, another shot reverberating nearer. Within a month since Christmas, his American wife had learned how to drive the car and throw knives, two skills she appeared to excel in more than knowing the fashion of the season or how to address the complicated hierarchy of the aristocracy. His lips almost split into a grin as he recalled her stumbling over addressing the Duke of Westonbridge two weeks ago by calling him “Your Honorable Lord” and then in quick correction, “Your Grace, or at least I hope you are since I fumbled your title so atrociously.”

Of course the duke had fallen under Grace’s spell within five minutes, as everyone else who met her seemed to do since she’d moved to his crumbling Derbyshire estate two months earlier. Well, everyone except the villainess who’d tried to kill them just before Christmas. But that was hopefully a distant story, and their next chapter would be a lovely, peaceful belated honeymoon—he increased his steps at the idea—with a little surprise tagged on for his lovely Lady Astley.

Frederick nodded a good afternoon to the police officer inconspicuously posted near the house so that Frederick’s mother could work out her sentence of house arrest in connection with his father and brother’s deaths. He released a sigh. No, she was no murderess, unless glares and harsh words counted, but she’d harbored information that could have protected others. The law had been gracious with her due to her age and status, merely revoking her freedoms from leaving Havensbrook, so his mother’s life stayed very much as it had since Frederick’s father’s death; however, the added blemish of “criminal” to her reputation ensured she spent her days away from the public eye.

And if the police officer appeared in no great distress over the gunfire, Frederick knew all too well what must be happening.

Just around the edge of the house, a large garden opened to the south, its walls still well intact, though ivy-grown and tangled. Another shot reverberated through the damp air, followed quickly by laughter and his wife’s exuberant exclamation of “I hit it.”

Frederick’s lips pinched into a frown. Why he ever expected his cousin Blake to mind Frederick’s subtle requests was beyond him! The garden gate stood open, welcoming him forward into an even more tangled array of vines and twined greenery, the winter roses, a remnant of the garden’s healthier days, sleeping until spring.

He hadn’t had the means to make things right with Havensbrook before but, with Grace’s wealth and her generous heart, he could now. Another way to make amends for the past, he hoped, though God had already bestowed on him much more than he deserved.

His cousin stood to the right, hands on the hips of his gray suit jacket, but Frederick’s gaze followed Blake’s focus to the woman in the center of the garden. Her bright auburn hair was twisted up beneath a deep purple hat that matched her coat, both in contrast to her pale skin. Her laughter echoed toward him, so filled with joy and hope. Two things he’d thought lost forever before he’d met her.

Yes, God had given him much more than he deserved, and sometimes, he wondered if God had given him more than he could manage.

Pepper Basham

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroads and Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.
You can learn more about Pepper at her website http://www.pepperdbasham.com or connect with her on FB, IG, or Twitter.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away the grand prize package of
a $25 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/24703/the-cairo-curse-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 23
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 23
Bigreadersite, February 23
By The Book, February 24
Just Your Average reviews, February 24
Remembrancy, February 24
Sylvan Musings, February 24
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, February 25 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 25
Mary Hake, February 25
Worthy2Read, February 26
Christina’s Corner, February 26
Texas Book-aholic, February 26
Betti Mace, February 27
The Sacred Line, February 27
deb’s Book Review, February 27
Lily’s Book Reviews, February 28
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 28
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 28
Labor Not in Vain, February 28
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 1
Cover Lover Book Review, March 1
Daysong Reflections, March 1
Hebrews 12 Endurance, March 2
Wishful Endings, March 2
Melissa’s Bookshelf, March 2
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 3
Simple Harvest Reads, March 3 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Rebecca Tews, March 3
Connie’s History Classroom, March 4
Blogging With Carol, March 4
To Everything There Is A Season, March 4
Cathe Swanson, March 4
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 5
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 5
Artistic Nobody, March 5 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
Where Faith and Books Meet, March 6
For Him and My Family, March 6
Holly’s Book Corner, March 6
She Lives To Read, March 7
Splashes of Joy, March 7
Pause for Tales, March 7
Back Porch Reads, March 8
Blossoms and Blessings, March 8
Through the Fire Blogs, March 8

1 Comment

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Bear Knight by James R. Hannibal (Giveaway)

3/1/2023

4 Comments

Darkness Looms in the Dragon Lands

War is brewing. New threats have emerged in Keledev. The watchmen of Thousand Falls and the Windhold find goblin tunnels in the slopes of the mountain barrier that may hold many dangerous creatures. At the same time, scouting missions into the Dragon Lands confirm that the dragons are building an army of tortured Aladoth villagers to destroy the Liberated Land.

To protect Kara Orso, the young woman Connor and Lee rescued, the headmaster sends them to the Second Hall to face the intrigues of the Assembly in her place. Far to the south, the two cadets learn of an old weapon designed to end the war between the dragons and the Liberated Land forever. To restore the honor of his family and renew the hope of his people, Connor believes he must find the weapon and use it to destroy the dragon leader.

While Connor, Lee, and an assemblyman’s daughter scour the Dragon Lands for the weapon, Kara and Tiran are drawn north into the Forest of Horrors on a mission of their own—to find and save one tortured man. To succeed, both parties must face their fears and lean on the peace and strength of the Rescuer.

Genre: YA Fantasy
Release date: Febraury 14, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

New dangers arise for the Lightraider cadets...

I've been on a real fantasy kick lately so the release of this second Lightraider Academy novel couldn't have been more perfect timing. After being on tenterhooks for the last year or so I finally got to dive into Bear Knight to find some answers to that cliffhanger James R. Hannibal left me on at the end of book one.

I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised to find that I liked Bear Knight even more than its predecessor. It was like James R. Hannibal had slipped into just the right groove and had taken the Lightraider Academy tale to new heights – not to mention in a few unexpected directions.

One of the things that I really appreciate about the Lightraider Academy series – and Bear Knight in particular – is that, while it is obviously an allegory, James R. Hannibal has not sacrificed the 'fantasy' aspect of the story. It is a fantasy adventure story through and through with a noticeable nod to spiritual warfare and the Christian life.

If you enjoy fantasy yourself or you have teens – boys or girls alike – Lightraider Academy is a great series to try out. Do make sure that you read the first book before you read Bear Knight. The only problem you'll have with it is the same one that I do...having to wait for James R. Hannibal to bring some more answers in the next book in the series...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Bear Knight by James R. Hannibal a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

Read an Excerpt from Bear Knight

Sireth held up a palm to stop Aaron’s next swings and inspected their work, then waved. “Swap sides. We must keep the cuts even, and yours are not quite as deep.”

Not quite as deep was a generous evaluation, and Aaron knew it, but this did not deter his next question. Chopping trees was one thing. Fighting was quite another. “Are you not concerned about keeping up with the younger watchmen in training and combat?”

“Older. Younger. My age and yours are not so different when you consider eternity. And as to combat”—the axe spun in each of Sireth’s hands before he landed his next blow—“I have some training. You forget, most in my generation had not yet come of age when the Assembly disbanded the Order. Many of us had planned to join—had played and practiced at it from the day we could hold a wooden sword. We spent our strongest years still practicing, in hopes it would reopen.”

“But it didn’t. Not until you had households and children of your own—grown children, at that.”

“I’m well aware.”

Right. His children. “When did your sehna and behlna take on the initiate’s quest?”
“The very first class.”

The power went out of Aaron’s swing. Sireth Yar. Teegan and Tiran. How had he failed to put those names together? “They helped close the dragon’s portal. They stopped the invasion.”

“For now.”

“I take it you share the Order’s concern. If the dragons can open one portal, they can open others.”

Sireth shot a look at Aaron’s idle axe, and did not answer until Aaron had taken the cue and started chopping again. “That is why we are here, is it not? Last year, one dragon moved ore creatures and goblins to our side of the barrier. A host of dragons might send an army. The Lightraider Order believes that is their plan. My own sehna and behlna saw the preparations.”

An army. The preparations. Aaron let the words settle into his thoughts. He’d come to the barrier for adventure and because the old men of his village had spoken of honor and need. But had he truly considered the cost of his calling? Looking north, he pictured orcs, trolls, and all manner of dragon corruptions rushing down the slopes.

“You all right?”

“Hm? Oh yes.” Aaron resumed his swings. “Do you worry? About your sehna and behlna, I mean.” He looked northeast toward the Order’s fortress at Ras Telesar. “Up there, at the academy.”

“They’re in the Maker’s hands.” Sireth raised two fingers to signal Aaron to still his axe. “Ras Telesar may be higher up the barrier, but it’s still here, in Keledev, under the Rescuer’s protection.”

With a sharp crack, the trunk gave. Aaron found himself yanked over to Sireth’s side. The heaviest part of the pine smashed down right where he’d been standing. Sireth released him and patted his chest. “I’d say my children are as safe as you are.”

James R. Hannibal

As a former fighter pilot, stealth pilot, and tactical deception officer, James R. Hannibal is no stranger to secrets and adventure. He is the award-winning author of thrillers, mysteries, and fantasies for adults and children, and he is the developer of Lightraider Academy games. As a pastor’s kid in Colorado Springs, he guinea-pigged every youth discipleship program of the 1980s, but the one that engaged him and shaped him most as a Christ-follower and Kingdom warrior was DragonRaid, by Dick Wulf—the genesis of the Lightraider world.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate his tour, James is giving away the grand prize package of
a signed Bear Knight Hardcover, Starlots Gem Dice 7-Color Set, Hand-Inked,
First Watch Bible Memory Card Game, and a $100 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/24706/bear-knight-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 26
Texas Book-aholic, February 27
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 28
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 1
deb’s Book Review, March 1
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 2
Simple Harvest Reads, March 2 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 3
Lily’s Book Reviews, March 4
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 5
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 6
Blogging With Carol, March 7
Rebecca Tews, March 8
Where Faith and Books Meet, March 8
Guild Master, March 9
Artistic Nobody, March 10 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
For Him and My Family, March 11

4 Comments

WORD Wednesday - March 1st, 2023

3/1/2023

0 Comments

2023 Birthday Celebration - A Love Most Precious by Anita Higman (Giveaway)

2/28/2023

3 Comments

What does true love look like?

The book of Ruth has all the makings of a great love story: a grief stricken past, a homecoming, the challenge to survive, a poor Cinderella who chooses to serve, and an upstanding man of status who notices her. He fights to save her future. This Old Testament Bible story is about a love story far more immense than that of Ruth and Boaz.

During this 90-day devotional by Anita Higman, you will be inspired by the heartwarming, true story of Ruth containing priceless gems: the power of an eternal love to redeem a bereaved mother, a foreign widow, a reformed prostitute's son, all God’s people, and yes, even you. God has the power redeem our broken spirits, broken hearts, and broken pasts. Come discover a precious, life-changing love hidden within four illuminating chapters of Scripture that will delight your heart and refresh your soul! It's also the perfect gift for a friend on any occasion.

ISBN-13: ‎978-1648708411

Interview with Anita Higman about
A Love Most Precious

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
I was listening to some amazing and unique music, which was inspired by the Book of Ruth, and that work of art then inspired me to want to write a devotional book on Ruth. It amazes me how art can inspire other kinds of art. It’s fascinating how this whole process works in us and how it has the curious and wonderous potential to keep going like a never-ending ripple effect.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
Maybe around six weeks to two months. But once I begin, I try to not to take a lot of time off even with errands. I sometimes just keep going not bothering to change out of my PJs.

#3. What did you find the most difficult while writing this book?
Doing the research!

#4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
That no matter our background, no what the world thinks of us, and no matter what we’ve done wrong, that the Lord treasures us and longs for a friendship with us—for all time. And amazingly, we can choose to have that through Christ’s gift of salvation!

#5. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
Well, one humbling thing I keep relearning as I write devotional books is that the more I read and study the Bible, the more I have to face my great lack of knowledge!

#6. Where did your research take you while writing this book?
While trying to research the culture back in Ruth’s time or really any part of Biblical history, one discovers that in some ways people are very different than in our society today, and yet there is a sameness to it that is remarkable. People back then had some of the same fears and doubts and joys and longings as we do today. And there will always be that profound craving in one’s soul—no matter what ancient people or modern folk we’re talking about—that cannot be filled by anything but God.

#7. How has writing about this particular topic changed your own life?
Because I had to get to know Ruth on a deeper level, I now have a greater interest in the Bible in general. I get excited to see what God might like to show me in His Living Word.

#8. What demographic do you think this book will appeal to the most?
I am hoping and praying that this book will bless women of all ages.

#9. What drew you to write non-fiction versus fiction?
I love writing short pieces, and so to concentrate on one devotion at a time is not only satisfying but easier for me to accomplish.

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
My life verse is Psalm 19:14...

Anita Higman

Anita Higman—an award-winning and bestselling author from Texas—has authored or coauthored fifty-plus books, and she has a BA in the combined fields of speech communication, psychology, and art. A few of Anita’s favorite things are fairytale castles, antiquing, exotic teas, gardening, and laughing with her family and friends! Her latest book, A Love Most Precious, is a collection of devotions inspired from the book of Ruth in the Bible. Please drop by Anita’s website at anitahigman.com. She would love to hear from you!

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of A Love Most Precious

(USA ONLY)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

3 Comments

Cover Reveal - Scepter Of Fire by C.F.E. Black

2/24/2023

0 Comments

Cover Reveal!

A world in darkness. A love that cannot be.

Shocked by the revelation that followed the official coronation, Aly and Red march toward dangers they never saw coming and away from the things they both want most. Each must face their deepest fears and darkest secrets, finding strength when all hope is lost.

Death follows them. Evil hunts them. As the world grows darker and a battle looms, there remains only one path forward, and it will bring them toward their most difficult decision yet. To succeed is to lose something dear, but to fail is to watch the world fade into an eternal night.

Will the Beacon and Beholder fulfill their destiny—and will it be what they all hoped?

GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/76625886-scepter-of-fire
MY SUBSCRIBER OPT-IN PAGE: vip.cfeblack.com/join

Coming April 11, 2023

#scepteroffire #scepterandcrownseries 

0 Comments

E-Book Review - Cold Light Of Day by Elizabeth Goddard

2/23/2023

0 Comments

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Cold Light Of Day
Missing In Alaska book 1
by Elizabeth Goddard

-From Goodreads-

Police Chief Autumn Long is fighting to keep her job in the quiet Alaska town of Shadow Gap when an unexpected string of criminal activity leaves her with a wounded officer, unexplained murders, and even an attack on her own father. Despite her mistrust of outsiders, she turns to Grier Brenner, a newcomer who seems to have the skills and training Autumn needs to face this threat to her community.

Grier is in Alaska for the same reason so many others are--to disappear--when Chief Long enlists his help. He emerges from the shadows and proves his mettle, but his presence in her life could be a deadly trap for them both. If his secret is exposed, all will be lost. And he's not sure even Autumn could save him.

As the stakes rise and the dangers increase, Autumn and Grier must rely on each other to extinguish the deadly threats.

ASIN: ‎B0B6Q6PXBQ

Things get dangerous in a small Alaska town...

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Elizabeth Goddard

Author Website

There are some authors you just know that you can count on for a Christian romantic suspense story that will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Elizabeth Goddard has always been one of those authors and Cold Light Of Day certainly proves it. This first book in her new Missing In Alaska series delivered all of the cold chills I could have hoped for and even a few surprises along the way.

And on the subject of surprises, in this story there were quite a few. Nothing and no one were as they first appeared. Even our heroine and hero have some secrets. And if there is one thing this book is about, it's secrets....

If you like murder and mayhem, and I do, Cold Light Of Day was a fun read. The dramatic and treacherous Alaskan setting only amplifies the danger and intrigue in this fast-paced first Missing In Alaska novel from Elizabeth Goddard. I really enjoyed it and absolutely can't wait for the next book in the series...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Cold Light Of Day by Elizabeth Goddard a 4 Bark rating.

0 Comments

2023 Birthday Celebration - Interview with Jen Turano (Giveaway)

2/21/2023

7 Comments

Miss Gwendolyn Brinley accepted a temporary paid companion position for the Newport summer season, believing it would be a lark to spend the summer in America's most exclusive town. She suddenly finds her summer turning anything but amusing when her employer expects her to take over responsibilities as an assistant matchmaker. Tasked with the daunting prospect of attaining advantageous matches for her clients, Gwendolyn soon finds herself in the employ of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond irritating.

Walter Townsend is reluctantly in search of a wife for the sake of his unruly motherless children who cannot keep a governess for long. What he wasn't expecting was Miss Brinley, an amateur matchmaker who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle. Constantly besieged by society ladies on a mission to win his affection, Walter must find a way to overcome their inundating attention--and his unexpected attraction toward Gwendolyn.

The more time they spend together throughout the Newport Season, the harder it is for Gwendolyn to find Walter a wife when she realizes his perfect match might be . . . her.

ASIN: ‎B0B6Q4R5Y5

This Or That Interview with Jen Turano

Pizza or Tacos?
Hmmm. This is a tough one, but I’m going to say tacos, although…well, I really love pizza as well, but only thin crust.

Library or Bookstore?
Another difficult one. I’m going to go with library because my library is only a mile away from my house, and I spend a lot more time there than in the bookstores, although I can spend hours in a bookstore as well.

Time Travel – Past or Future?
Definitely past – I would love to see some of those grand mansions that once marched down Fifth Avenue.

Sunrise or Sunset?
Sunrise – I’m a morning person and I’m on the trail right at dawn almost every morning.

Outgoing or reserved?
I don’t think I have a reserved bone in my body.

Camping or Glamping?
Camping and, I know, you were probably expecting Glamping, but I was raised in a small town and spent my childhood covered in mud and sleeping out in a tent in the forest behind my house or in my treehouse with my gaggle of girlfriends.

Pets or People?
While I love animals, I enjoy people more, probably because I can hold an actual conversation with them.

Silly hats or silly socks?
I’m going to go with neither on this one.

Fiction or Non-fiction?
Fiction, although I read a ton of non-fiction for research purposes, a great deal of it rather dry with a few fascinating tidbits thrown in every once in a while.

Thanks for hosting me, Jasmine. Always fun to come over to your blog for a visit!

All the best,
~ Jen ~

Jen Turano

Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO.

She can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor/ or visit her on the web at
www.jenturano.com. She is represented by the Natasha Kern Literary Agency.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Jen is generously giving away a print copy of A Match In The Making

(USA ONLY)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

7 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Priscilla's Piggy by Marisa Masterson (Giveaway)

2/18/2023

5 Comments

This marriage needs something more than a pig to hold it together--

Jack Dixon knew his mother was right. It was time he married. He’d go along with whatever she writes in the letter to the matchmaker.

Priscilla Pringle fell in love with the man who wrote such a tender letter. Too bad that the man she meets in Missouri is his opposite. She’d leave and go home except for the little piggy she is bottle feeding.

Will she stay after the piggy is weaned? Is Jack the only one who needs to change to make a marriage work?

Read to find out.

Genre: Sweet Historical Romance
Release date: February 10, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Marisa

What was the inspiration for this book?
In part, this book was inspired by a documentary I watched about the Battle of Little Bighorn. After watching it, I wondered what it was like for members of the 7th Cavalry to discover Custer’s massacred men.
Since this was total war, these same men had killed women and children and burned villages. Would they have become hardened to the sight of death? How would their type of experiences affect a man’s faith in God?

How long did it take to finish writing this book?
This was a quick “write” for me. I spent three weeks from start to finish. During that time, I revisited my research often. While that slowed me down a bit, ideas and scenes flowed quickly as I wrote this one. I easily visualized life on the farm.
In fact, some of it is from my own experience bottle feeding piglets when I was a young teen. My grandfather taught me a lot about pigs. I allowed those memories to creep into this book and to bring the scenes with the pigs to life.

What drew you to write in this particular genre?
I grew up hearing stories about my pioneering ancestors. I was the fifth generation to live on the property that they’d homesteaded and was blessed to be raised by my grandparents. Our daily life included pots and pans, quilts, and dishes that had been used for generations. Stories about the people who had owned them naturally came along with the items. Writing sweet historical romances seemed a natural extension of the storytelling that was a part of my childhood.

How did you name your characters?
One of my characters is a small pig. Growing up, my family shopped at a store called Piggly Wiggly. I adapted that name, leaving out one letter. It became Piggy Wiggy.
As for my heroine’s name, I chose it for its meaning. It means venerable—accorded respect because of wisdom and character. I based her personality around that name.

Tell us a little about yourself, your family, friends.
I am a retired high school teacher—unwillingly retired. After spinal cord damage and tremendous vitamin deficiencies kept me from being able to teach, I spent seven years healing. Seven is the number of completion. I asked the Lord what He meant for me to do to serve Him. God opened the door for me to work with a mentor who started me on the path to writing Christian fiction. Four years later, I now have forty-one titles.
Life became very interesting shortly after I began to write. My only grandchild was born. I became her “granny nanny”. With my disability, being able to care for an infant was nothing short of a miracle from the Lord.

More from Marisa

As a girl of about ten, I remember holding a glass 7-Up bottle for the orphaned piglet. My grandpa attached a black rubber nipple and had me feed it—just like Fern in Charlotte’s Web. Unlike Fern, I knew not to name it or grow attached. It would be sold when it reached 40 pounds.

That memory came in handy with Priscilla’s Piglet. I wondered what I could add to keep my heroine at the farm after she decides the hero is not her perfect match. The memory prodded my brain. Who doesn’t love a baby that is in need—even if it’s a baby pig! It seemed the perfect fit for this story.

Marisa Masterson

The smiling teacher. That’s what her students called her. How did this dedicated teacher end up as an author? A spinal cord injury took her out of the high school classroom. After seven years of healing, she asked the Lord what He had for her. Now, thirty-seven books later, Marisa is still enjoying the direction He sent her when God opened the door for her to begin writing.
Marisa’s sweet romances often are set in her home state of Wisconsin. Growing up, she loved hearing stories about her family who pioneered in that state. Those stories, in part, are what inspire ideas for her books.

Though she’s from Wisconsin, Marisa and her husband of thirty-four years live in Saginaw, Michigan.
They have two grown children and a precious three-year-old granddaughter, Hunny Junebug.
She’s been Marisa’s best physical therapy and keeps her moving.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Marisa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/242ae/priscilla-s-piggy-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 12
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 13
Stories By Gina, February 14 (Author Interview)
Girls in White Dresses, February 15
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 16 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, February 17
Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 18 (Author Interview)
deb’s Book Review, February 18
Pause for Tales, February 19
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 20
For the Love of Literature, February 21 (Author Interview)
Connie’s History Classroom, February 22
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 23
Artistic Nobody, February 24 (Author Interview)
Holly’s Book Corner, February 24
For Him and My Family, February 25

5 Comments

2023 Birthday Celebration - Forced To Hide by Terri Reed (Giveaway)

2/16/2023

5 Comments

A bomber is on the loose.
Will they be his next victims?

When multiple bombs tear through a courtroom, deputy US marshal Brian Forrester must assume guard duty of Judge Adele Weston. Someone wants her dead. Is it the cartel leader whose case she’s presiding over or an unknown killer from her past? With danger trailing them through the Texas countryside, they’ll have to find a safe haven before the next explosion finishes them off.

ASIN:‎ B0B4B6JC2V

Book Interview with Terri Reed

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
The inspiration for FORCED TO HIDE was from an experience I had where I testified in court. As I sat there, I thought, what if—a court room was attacked? What if—the judge was the target? From there I started playing with ideas until a story formed and Judge Adele Weston was born.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
I started the book in November of 2021 and turned in the book at the end of May 2022.

#3. Do you have favorite character(s) in this book?
Whoa! Hard question. I love both of the main characters and the dog, Scout! Each character has a unique personality, set of wounds and opportunities for growth. I love when characters grow in a story.

#4. What made you choose some of the specific locations in this book?
The location was set in the first book in the series. Forced to Hide is the second book of my US Marshal series set in San Antonio, Texas.

#5. How did you name your characters?
The judges name came from one of my favorite singers, Adele. LOL. Adele had just done a huge concert that was all over social media and I really love her work so I decided to name my character after her.

#6. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
When I started writing this book, I was on a team of decorators who were honored enough to decorate a room at the historic Pittock Mansion in Portland Oregon. Our theme for our room was 101 Dalmatians. So, I decided to give Adele a Dalmatian dog. It was so fun to add a dog to the story. I love to write stories with dogs.

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
The Bible verse for Forced to Hide is from --

This verse seemed appropriate for Adele, who was being threatened by unknown forces. I love how God’s word provides us all with advice and comfort.

Terri Reed

Award winning, multi-published author Terri Reed found solace from a chaotic childhood in the pages of books that took her far away to different realms and realities. When she discovered Christian fiction, she also discovered her own story telling voice. Now she writes books of heart-warming romance and heart-pounding suspense infused with faith. Her romance and romantic suspense novels have appeared on Publisher's Weekly top ten and Nielsen BookScan top hundred lists, and have been featured in USA Today. She's a member of the Honor Roll of Romance Writers of America. Her books have finaled in Romance Writers of America RITA contest, National Readers' Choice Award, Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and the American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award. One of her romance novels was adapted into a Hallmark movie for Christmas 2019.

Terri resides in the Pacific Northwest with her college-sweetheart husband. When not writing, she enjoys
spending time with her family and friends and running the agility course with her Australian shepherd.
You can write to Terri at P.O. Box 19555 Portland, OR 97280 or visit her online at
www.terrireed.com or email her at terrireed@sterling.net