Blog Archives

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

2/28/2023

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

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

2/24/2023

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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 

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

2/23/2023

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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.

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2023 Birthday Celebration - Interview with Jen Turano (Giveaway)

2/21/2023

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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

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

2/18/2023

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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

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

2/16/2023

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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 [email protected]

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Terri is generously giving away
a signed print copy of one of her backlist books and some swag!

(USA ONLY)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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2023 Birthday Celebration - Guest Post by Elizabeth Camden (Giveaway)

2/11/2023

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Maggie Molinaro survived a hardscrabble childhood in the downtrodden streets of Manhattan to become a successful businesswoman. After a decade of sacrifice, she now owns a celebrated ice cream company. But when she offends a corrupt banker, she unwittingly sets off a series of calamities that threaten to destroy her life’s work.

Liam Blackstone is a charismatic steel magnate committed to overhauling factory conditions for the steelworkers of America. Standing in his way is the same villain determined to ruin Maggie. What begins as a practical alliance to defeat a common enemy soon evolves into a romance between two wounded people determined to beat the odds.

A spiraling circle of treachery grows increasingly dangerous as Liam and Maggie risk their lives and fortunes for the good of the city. It will require all their wit and ingenuity to protect everything—and everyone—they hold dear.

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Publication Year: 2023
ISBN: 0764238450

Books in the Blackstone Legacy series.

Why I Wrote Hearts of Steel

by Elizabeth Camden

I’ve been addicted to romance novels since I picked up my first Kathleen Woodiwiss novel back in the early 1980s, and always wanted to write the sort of lush, wildly romantic stories she did so well. Over the years I read other writers who influenced me: Danielle Steel for her willingness to incorporate historical and business angles, and Charles Dickens for his heart-pounding characters who embody good versus evil.

I tried to incorporate those influences in Hearts of Steel, a romance set in early 20th century New York City. At that time, America was still a place where people could rise from rags to riches. My fictional heroine survived a hard-scrabble youth selling ice cream out of a pushcart to become a successful owner of an ice cream factory. When she offends a corrupt banker, he becomes determined to ruin her, setting up a Dickensian-like story as underdogs are forced to stand up against the power of Wall Street.

Who doesn’t love a story of good versus evil? Especially when the heroine joins forces with a smoldering hero who has his own reasons for resenting the villain of the story. Hearts of Steel is a whirlwind ride through the boardrooms and mansions of New York. It’s a story in which fortunes are gambled, lost, and sometimes found again. Although it is the final book of a trilogy, readers won’t need to read the earlier books to enjoy Hearts of Steel.

Although I love weaving real-life history into my novels, I am a romance novelist at heart. The love story between Maggie and Liam propels the momentum of the novel, and I hope readers will enjoy their love story as they risk everything to take on the corrupt world of Wall Street.

Elizabeth Camden

Elizabeth Camden is a research librarian at a small college in central Florida. Her novels have won the coveted RITA and Christy Awards. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband near Orlando, Florida.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Elizabeth is generously giving away a print or e-book copy of Hearts Of Steel*
(USA ONLY)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Hearts Of Steel is the 3rd book in the series, the winner can choose either Carved In Stone
or Written On The Wind instead, if they prefer to start with one of the previous books.

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Epic Book Launch - United Forces by Terry Overton

2/10/2023

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In the second book of The Underground Book Readers, Leena, Kahn, Casey, Jairus, Asher, and Conroy face unpredicted challenges. The World Force tightens its grip on the remaining teens and children of the Blue Ridge Mountains area. Increased patrols and drones are seen nearly every day as they visit their underground cavern to read forbidden books and study the Bible. The Underground Book Readers attempt to find out the identity and purpose of a new threatening group seen on a nearby mountain while they continue to work on an escape tunnel. But they soon discover there is more under Leena’s house than a cellar. The underground group design a spy mission to the other mountain. Questions remain about possible escapees who left to find a free territory in what used to be called the United States in the world before.

Genre: Middle grade, pre-teen, teen dystopian
Release date: March 1, 2023

Excerpt from United Forces

Kahn slowly turned his head as he moved the binoculars from side to side, scanning the other mountain. Pausing to think about the current situation, he reflected on the past few days. Much had changed in the last week. It had only been a few days since Leena followed Kahn when he attempted to hide a forbidden book in his pocket. He tried to lose her in the woods along the way, but she tailed him for more than a mile to the secret cavern. Not being able to shake her from his trail, Kahn introduced Leena to the original group of four secret society readers who approved her membership in the society later that same day. The Underground Book Readers had grown to five members.

Not long after Kahn introduced Leena to the group, Conroy, was discovered in Leena’s shed. Conroy had been hiding from the Force since the day his older brother was taken. Because of the mysterious way Conroy had been discovered, it had been tougher for the group to accept him. But Conroy had proven himself when the members requested that he catch and cook fish in the nearby creek.

Terry Overton

Terry Overton obtained her Ph.D. in Psychology and her Ed. D. in special education. She taught in public schools and was a school psychologist and a professor before retiring in 2016. She began her second “career” after retirement writing Christian fiction books and devotionals. She hopes to share the Christian worldview through her writing and touch the lives of her readers. Her novels, middle grade readers, and picture books seek to entertain readers through the travel experiences and characters included in her books. Her books have earned Bookfest Awards, Firebird Award Winner, American Writing Award Gold, International Finalist Book Award, Reader Views Awards, Reader’s Favorite

Awards and the Mom’s Choice Award. She currently resides in Laguna Vista, Texas, near the Texas-Mexico border.
She enjoys Biblical history and general Bible studies, writing, and enjoying family and friends. She has seven
grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

Blog Stops

Excerpt One: https://www.artistwriterandstudentohmy.com/posts/united-forces-book-excerpt/

Excerpt Two: https://amandanicolle.blogspot.com/2023/01/united-forces_22.html

Excerpt Three: http://montanamade.weebly.com/tell-tale-book-reviews/epic-book-launch-united-forces-by-terry-overton

Excerpt Four: http://www.simpleharvestreads.com/posts/united-forces-book-excerpt/

Excerpt Five: https://catsinthecradle.blog/2023/02/08/united-forces-epic-book-launch/

Excerpt Six: https://nannie3.blogspot.com/2023/01/the-underground-book-readers-united.html

Excerpt Seven: https://guildmaster97.wordpress.com/2023/02/11/united-forces-epic-book-launch-excerpt/

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2023 Birthday Celebration - Interview with Jill Eileen Smith (Giveaway)

2/6/2023

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The first time she opens her eyes, Eve gazes on One whose beauty nearly blinds her, whose breath is in her lungs. Her Creator takes her hand and gives her to one like her and yet different. Together, she and Adam experience pure joy as they explore Eden. But her favorite moments are when the Creator comes to walk with them, day after day.

Until everything changes. With one act of disobedience, Eve finds that her world is no longer a friendly place. With remorse in her heart, she must face the unknown future--the births, the deaths, the sacrifices, the loss of the one home she has ever known. Perhaps worst of all is the loss of trust, not only with her Creator but with the man who shares her life. How will they ever survive out of Eden?

Bestselling biblical fiction author Jill Eileen Smith imagines the life of the first woman to ever live, unspooling a story of love, loss, and the promise of redemption.

ISBN-13: ‎978-0800737641

5 Things I Never Expected About Becoming An Author

Jill Eileen Smith

I’m honestly not sure what I expected to follow my first book contract. Aspiring writers probably have all sorts of things that they hope will happen, and I’m sure I had some of those, but I can’t recall expecting much. I was too close to quitting when it happened to think about what came next.

That said, I began writing because I wanted to read the book I was attempting to write. Somewhere along the way, the desire to see it published surfaced, and over time I pursued that new dream. I studied the craft, took classes, attended conferences, wrote, wrote, wrote, and rewrote for over twenty years. I had three agents and had completed eight novels and still…nothing.

That’s when I nearly quit. I have a file of rejections. I counted them once, but I’ve forgotten how many. Too many for too long. I decided that I must have read God’s leading wrong. So, I prayed and determined to wait one more year. Then I would move on to whatever else God had for me. Six months before that year would have ended, I had my first contract for The Wives of King David.

Friends and family were super supportive and positive about it all. I think they made that series a bestseller because they’d waited so long with me! I must have talked about writing way too much, but either way, when it finally happened, they rejoiced with me.

I used to write whenever I had the chance. I wrote in a little corner of our family room when I wasn’t homeschooling our boys. Because I write biblical fiction, my plot came straight from Scripture. That wasn’t hard to do when I was writing that first series. David’s life was colorful and covered a lot of pages. I had a lot of source material.

As my career has continued with more books and women in Scripture, I’ve come up against a lot less to work with, and at times I wondered if there was even a story to tell. I used to make “Idea Boards” out of poster board and pictures cut from magazines. Now I do everything on the computer. I work in Scrivener and Pages. I still search for pictures, but I look for actors or models whose heritage reflects my characters. I take more time now to come up with character traits and figure out at least a little bit of the main characters’ stories before I begin writing. But I still write a very long paragraph by paragraph summary of the story and then get to know the people as I write. I’m a combination writer – part plotter, part seat-of-the-pants.

The hardest part of publishing for me is when I’m writing my first draft of a new book and before I can finish, I have to edit the book I’ve turned in so that my publisher can keep to their schedule. This past year, I did both at the same time, because if I stop writing to edit, I’ll have to start the writing over, and that makes me lose time. It actually worked very well.

The easiest part and perhaps the most fun is right now - when I’m casually researching a new book, releasing a new book, and completing a current work-in-progress that is soon due. The reason this is easier is because editing at this point isn’t a lot of work. It’s more fine-tuning. New releases come with a lot of extra work, but most of it is fun. And when those two things are past, I get to dive into a new story, and I really enjoy the research.

I suppose it is that love of research that has grown over time and changed my reading habits. I used to read mostly fiction because I was trying to figure out how to write fiction. But I read nonfiction more often now, not only to give me fodder for my stories, but to help me in my personal life and faith. I still love a good story, and I hope my work produces them as well, but I don’t read fiction like I used to.

If you get the chance to read Daughter of Eden, I hope you find it helpful and entertaining. Eve’s conflicts are unique because she and Adam were the only people who knew what perfection looked and felt like. They alone had walked freely, innocently with the Creator. Until they lost it all. What did that look like? How did that feel? That’s what I explored in her story.

Jill Eileen Smith

Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling, award-winning author of the Wives of King David series, Wives of the Patriarchs, Daughters of the Promised Land, The Heart of a King, Star of Persia, Miriam's Song, and the nonfiction When Life Doesn't Match Your Dreams, and She Walked Before Us. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Old Testament times.
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable, “helpful” cat Tiger. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.

Contact Jill through email ([email protected]), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com),
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).

It's Time For A Giveaway!

1 print copy of Daughter Of Eden

(USA Only)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

4 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Expired Return by Lisa Phillips (Giveaway)

2/4/2023

4 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Expired Return by Lisa Phillips,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

She'll give everything to protect her family.
He always knew she was the one.

Veterinary tech Pepper Miller lives a quiet life in Last Chance County. She's watching her niece until her sister shows up…if she ever does. When Victory's father demands he take over her care, Pepper knows something has gone wrong. With a new drug in town, and her sister embroiled in a dangerous bargain, it's up to Pepper to protect the people she loves.

Even if it costs every secret she's ever kept.

Fire Department liaison Allen Frees lives with the injuries he sustained as a police officer in a raid gone wrong. He's put his life back together but getting the truck crew and engine squad to succeed might be his toughest assignment yet. When Victory is nearly kidnapped at a community event, Allen steps in to help Pepper keep her niece safe. The one thing he couldn't fix was the love he lost, but he isn't going to let Pepper walk away this time.

No matter what walls he has to break down.

Last Chance County returns in this blazing
new series from Sunrise Publishing.

Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: January 31, 2023
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

PURCHASE LINKS:
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookBub

Other Books In The Series

My Review

Can any of them handle the truth...?

I'm always up for a good Lisa Phillips book and they never seem to disappoint. Starting a new series in particular, is always fun as she never fails get things going with non-stop action and suspense – and a few explosions and car chases thrown in for good measure.

Expired Return lived up to all of my expectations as I knew it would. The romantic angst and family drama alongside murder, betrayal, and general mayhem keeps the story going a mile a minute. This first Last Chance Fire And Rescue novel kept me intrigued and turning the digital pages of my ereader and I think this was nearly the fastest that I have read a book by Lisa Phillips. There was just something that I liked about Pepper and Allen – not to mention Victory – and as secrets came to light I only liked them all the more.

The Last Chance Fire And Rescue series is off to a really good start with Expired Return and I am looking forward to reading more of it. Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres and if it is yours as well you won't want to miss this series either...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Expired Return by Lisa Phillips a 4 Bark rating.

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

Lisa Phillips

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 50 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). As a worship leader for Calvary Chapel churches in her local area, Lisa has discovered a love for mentoring new ministry members and youth worship musicians.

Discover the world of Last Chance Fire and Rescue at https://lastchancecounty.com/lc-fire
Connect with Lisa by visiting www.authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Expired Return,
a $10 Amazon gift card, and sticker swag from Last Chance County!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 31, 2023 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on February 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!

4 Comments

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

2/2/2023

7 Comments

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

A witness on the run.
A mission to survive.

Fleeing after witnessing a shooting in her office, Bailey Scott must rely on cowboy Jackson Walker for protection when the gunman turns his sights on her. With a drug ring determined to silence her, Jackson promises to protect her at his ranch. But he’s an undercover DEA agent with secrets he can't reveal. Can he take down the criminals before their pursuers lead them straight into an inescapable trap?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: January 24, 2023
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

My Review

Can they outwit the killers stalking them...?

I always love reading a good Love Inspired Suspense debut novel – especially when the author writes with some skill. Ranch Under Fire may be Tina Wheeler's debut with the imprint but it sure didn't seem like it, no, she fits right in with the rest of the Love Inspired Suspense talent.

Ranch Under Fire was certainly an exciting read. It starts out with murder and the mayhem doesn't let up from there on out. Tina Wheeler kept up the fast paced suspense and didn't give her characters even a moment to stop and breathe. Of course, readers don't get a break either as you can't help but turn those pages like mad to find out who did and why.

As you can tell, I enjoyed Ranch Under Fire. It was a good read from a debut Love Inspired Suspense author and I will certainly be looking for more from Tina Wheeler in the future, hopefully soon...

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

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

Tina Wheeler

Tina Wheeler is a retired teacher and award-winning author. Although she grew up near a 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 or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive an autographed copy of the book and a $15 Amazon card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 30, 2023 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on February 6, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and
given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

7 Comments

2023 Birthday Celebration - A Light In The Dark by Jessica R. Patch (Giveaway)

2/1/2023

2 Comments

Deep in the Kentucky hills, three women have been found brutalized and murdered.
But the folks in Night Holler have their own ways and their own laws.
And they’re not talking…

Led to an isolated Appalachian Mountain town by a trail of disturbing murders, FBI special agent Violet Rainwater’s determined to catch a serial killer with a twisted agenda. With locals refusing to reveal their secrets, Violet’s only ally is Detective John Orlando. But even John has an ulterior motive—he’s convinced this case is connected to his wife’s murder.
As they dig deeper, Violet uncovers a link to her own unresolved past. For years she’s worked the cold case of her mother’s abduction, which had led to her birth. The need to look into the eyes of the sinful man who fathered her consumes Violet. Until she can, she’ll never have peace. Because she’s terrified she might be exactly like him.
In this chilling novel, when the present collides with Violet’s mysterious past and John’s tragic loss, they must unravel the warped, sinuous connections before the killer strikes again. But solving the case might not be nearly as terrifying as the possibility that Violet’s finally found her roots…

PREORDER LINKS
https://jessicarpatch.com/book/a-cry-in-the-dark/

Interview with Violet & John from A Cry In The Dark

Heroine: Violet

Are you and introvert or extrovert?
I’m both. I like my privacy but I have no problem with conflict or dealing with people.

Chocolate or Strawberry?
Neither. I don’t eat sugar.

What single thing do you most like about John Orlando and what single thing really drives you crazy?
I like that he doesn’t push me or force me to talk. So far nothing drives me crazy, other than he’s rule follower and it’s going to take getting on these people’s level to get stuff done—and these people are criminals.

What is your favorite Bible verse?
I don’t know the Bible except for one verse when I was a kid. John 3:16.

Hero: John

Are you and introvert or extrovert?
Extrovert. I like people.

Chocolate or Strawberry?
Can I say both?

What single thing do you most like about Violet and what single thing really drives you crazy?
Same thing for both. Courage. It’s amazing but also it’s dangerous.

What is your favorite Bible verse?
Romans 8:28.

Author

What do you hope that people will learn from your story?
That there is no darkness too dark that God cannot, will not, reach down to rescue you from. And that he is always divinely guiding you for your good and his glory.

Where do you hope to be 10 years from now?
I never think that far ahead. I could be gone tomorrow. Hopefully, still writing and teaching the Bible.

What one piece of advice would you like to give readers?
Advice? Don’t waste precious reading time on a book you don’t enjoy. A DNF is okay. But do read all of mine! LOL ;)

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart as an author.
Single most important thing—be in the word. Know God’s story. Being Bible illiterate makes you susceptible to false teaching, enemy attacks and eventually falling away from teh faith. If you want to understand your bible and know the Big Picture story, email me: [email protected] I’ll help you get going!

Jessica R. Patch

Jessica R. Patch is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author known for her dry wit, signatures twists, and complex characters. She loves reading true crime books, discussing cold cases over chips and salsa with her girlfriends, and hunting down serial killers in her romantic suspense novels and psychological thrillers.
Jessica loves to encourage and inspire people to forward living through her Forward Friday Blog posts and through her monthly email newsletter. You can join the Patched In community at her website: www.jessicarpatch.com.
She resides in the Memphis area with her husband, two young adult children, and her spoiled tri-color Shetland Sheepdog. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

1 digital copy of A Cry in the Dark

(US and International)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

2 Comments

2023 Birthday Celebration - How It Works

2/1/2023

0 Comments

How It Works

During the month of February we will be featuring some wonderful content from some great authors!
To find a celebration post just look for the phrase
"2023 Birthday Celebration"
at the beginning of the blog post title and the above graphic at the top of the post.
If there is a giveaway associated with that post you will see the word
"Giveaway" at the end of the blog post title.