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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Goodness Of Unicorns by Kayla E. Green (Give.away)

12/29/2025

One girl determined to heal her sister and another looking for purpose in a nation on the brink of war. And unicorns—with a twist you’ve never seen before.
It’s Rowan Tritonia’s sixteenth Naming Anniversary. Her plans for the day never included a headache that causes her to almost faint on a day meant for celebration. When the world comes back into focus, her brown eyes have changed to magenta. But what scares her more is that everything around her is now black and white coupled with a mysterious ability to see the light and shadows in a person’s soul. Then a local cleric implies that Rowan could have the power of Sight, a gift which has only been seen in the stories of unicorns in the Book of Verimor, an ancient text. Rowan is perplexed. Why would Verimor give her something she never asked for instead of answering her greatest prayer to help her younger sister, Blythe?
News of the girl with Sight quickly travels beyond Rowan’s local village. When the King of Wisteria learns of her gift from a letter, he summons her to the castle. With growing political tensions from neighboring nations, Rowan may be able to provide the aid they desperately need. Linnea, the king’s sister and his primary advisor, prays that Rowan has truly been blessed by a unicorn and can save the nation and its people from encroaching darkness.

Meanwhile, back at home, Blythe, sets out on her own journey. She feels helpless, tied down by the pain that keeps her homebound most of the time. Although she wears a smile to comfort those around her—especially her family—Blythe wonders if her life will ever amount to anything more than fading into the background. Is she truly too broken for any greater purpose, or can Verimor still use her?

Genre: YA Noblebright Fantasy
Release Date: October 21, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Distance cannot separate sisters....

Fantasy has been one of my go-to genres this year and it has been fun to discover fantastical new worlds and stories. The Goodness Of Unicorns is my second book from Kayla E. Green, even though it is the first book in the Tritonia Chronicles series, and I have to say that it was imaginative as well as more intriguing.

Right from the start one can't help but love Rowan and Blythe. These two sisters truly love one another and will risk much for each other. I found the chapters focusing on each sister equally as interesting and I appreciated how Kayla E. Green crafted her story so each of those chapters, no matter the perspective, built upon the previous one.

There is some great worldbuilding right off the bat in The Goodness Of Unicorns and I really loved the birthday traditions in particular. From courting symbols to royalty to the landscape, it was all nicely done. I also found Rowan's gift and all of its nuances to be quite compelling.

As someone who is older than the target audience but still enjoys a good fantasy tale, I am a big fan of the way this first Tritonia Chronicles novel blended faith with that particular genre. This story has a little bit of everything including unicorns, what more could you ask for...?

So, I enjoyed the simple but imaginative introduction to the world of The Tritonia Chronicles. The Goodness Of Unicorns was a fairly quick read for me and since Kayla E. Green left things on a bit of a cliffhanger I am quite looking forward to finding out what happens next....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Goodness Of Unicorns by Kayla E. Green a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Kayla

Do you enjoy reading book dedications? The Goodness Of Unicorns’ dedication reads:
For my twin sister and first friend, Kari:
My world, and the world at large, is brighter with you in it.
May everyone who reads this find the strength in their own journeys to embrace the beacon of hope God has placed in their hearts for both themselves and those around them.
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15, NIV

It will come as no surprise to those who read the book’s dedication that TGOU is a story about two sisters who are best friends; but, like any relationship, conflict happens. And, sometimes, it arises from the best of intentions.

Sisters, navigating chronic pain, finding purpose and learning that bravery doesn’t always look like charging into battle are all elements you will find in The Goodness of Unicorns. Join sisters Rowan and Blythe in the world of Wisteria where they each have important choices to make for the sake of light, goodness, and one another.

Kayla E. Green

Kayla E. Green is an author and poet who writes to remind others—and herself—that light always prevails over darkness. When she isn’t writing, reading, or spending time with her family, she loves singing loudly and off-key to KLove Radio and pretending she’s a unicorn. Fittingly, her debut novel is The Goodness of Unicorns. Kayla has also written an award-winning YA fantasy novella, Aivan: The One Truth, and an inspirational poetry collection, Metamorphosis. Kayla also has stories, poems, and devotionals featured in various anthologies, and she has several flash fiction stories available through Havok Publishing

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Kayla is giving away the grand prize of
a $50 Amazon gift card, journal, pen, and unicorn themed item!!

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

https://gleam.io/2SyFy/the-goodness-of-unicorns-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Simple Harvest Reads, December 20 (Author Interview)
Inspired by Fiction, December 21
Artistic Nobody, December 22 (Author Interview)
CeCe Reads and Sings, December 22
Stories By Gina, December 23 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 23
Fiction Book Lover, December 24 (Author Interview)
Vicky Sluiter, December 25 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, December 26
The Lofty Pages, December 27
For the Love of Literature, December 28 (Author Interview)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 29
Blossoms and Blessings, December 30 (Author Interview)
Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 31
Guild Master, January 1
Blogging With Carol, January 2

1 Comment

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Maxine Justice: Public Offender by Daniel Schwabauer (Give.away)

12/20/2025

1 Comment

The case she didn’t need. The client she
didn’t want. The trial she couldn’t win.

Fresh off her single-handed defense against alien adversaries in a galactic courtroom, Maxine Justice discovers that saving the Earth is not enough to earn a hero’s welcome back home. Once again broke and now looking for revenge, her return to night court as a public defender takes an immediate detour when she’s tasked with defending a Therapod murder suspect.
The case drags her into the quirky theories of her new client, Father Gilbert Barthes, and the corrupt underbelly of corporate robotics. As her defense takes on global significance, Maxine lands squarely in the crosshairs of new enemies determined to conceal their plans for acquiring the planet. Worse, her probably guilty client may be the only one who can expose what’s really happening.
Stripped of all credibility and most of her friends, can Maxine find some way to save humanity when the world is bent on self-destruction? Or will Earth finally succumb to the most unlikely deception?

Genre: Science Fiction
Release Date: November 4, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Crazy conspiracy or terrifying takeover?

This was one of those cases where the cover caught my eye before anything else. After I read the blurb I was entirely intrigued. A story that is both futuristic/sc-fi and a courtroom drama? I've been trying to branch out a little in my reading habits so definitely count me in.

Maxine Justice: Public Offender turned out to be every bit as interesting as anticipated. The mix of futuristic technology and the familiar – think robots that are all but human alongside everyday cars, cellphones and intergalactic travel. I must admit that I found it as fascinating as I did Maxine's fight to save her client and, in turn, the world.

Daniel Schwabauer paints a vivid world in this story and delves into some unexpected territory surrounding the origin of faith – is it a choice or merely programming – and as the use of AI grows, a question that the world will be asking at some point – can created artificial intelligence become more than its programming?

Don't get me wrong, Maxine Justice: Public Offender is an entertaining, slightly edgy, story that made for a fun read. I really came to like Maxine, she can be a bit mercenary and is definitely out for revenge, but she also fights hard for her clients and tries to protect those closest to her even as she holds them at arm's length.

Since I haven't read the first Maxine Justice book, I was glad to find that this second one was its own story. Daniel Schwabauer did a great job building onto the first story while providing enough resolution to the continued story arc in book 2. And, much to my interest, there is the foundation for and promise of at least one more Maxine Justice tale....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Maxine Justice: Public Offender by Daniel Schwabauer a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Daniel

I tend to get three questions from people who only know me from the Night Court Channel or watching my defense of planet Earth on the global broadcast that made me famous. To the first, no, I haven’t seen a penny of the money I’m owed because the feds froze ALL of my bank accounts, even my personal savings. Second, traveling in a space-egg with a pastoroid was not as terrifying as it sounds—except that I had no way to escape Counselor Singh’s dad jokes. And third, no, even though my cat is still missing, I do not want one of your kittens, thank you very much.

Maxine Justice, LLC is your only source for first-hand legal advice pertaining to extraterrestrial medical malpractice, predatory off-world time-sharing contracts, and “surprise implants” experiences at the Coliseum.

We’re also the only law firm committed to exposing what’s really happening in the world of artificial humans.

Ever wondered how Counselor Singh could be targeted on the steps of the UN building during a heavily-covered press conference, yet six months later law enforcement still claims they have no idea who the shooter was? Doesn’t it seem odd that they turned the forensic evidence over to Singh’s manufacturer instead of using a neutral third party?

If I were an artificial person, I’d be screaming these questions from the rooftop. Yet we haven’t heard a peep from that community since it happened.

That’s not some wild conspiracy. That’s fear.

Which is where I come in.

If you’re a TheraPod concerned about your future in a world spiraling out of control— if you’re a pastoroid, a rabbot, a podre, an e-mam, a surgicon EZ Doc, or any other model of artificial person and you face a legal dilemma involving your own termination and/or the fate of biological humans, give me a call.

If you’re a regular human and you’ve been railroaded by York City’s legal system, targeted by ruthless corporate bullies, or victimized by inhuman—and I do mean not-at-all-human—business practices, talk to me.

I’m not in it for the money.

I don’t have any!

I’m in it for my name—for Justice.

And I promise you this: I won’t smile until you do.

Daniel Schwabauer

Daniel Schwabauer, ThD, teaches English at MidAmerica Nazarene University and writes award-winning fantasy and science fiction novels. His professional work includes textbooks, stage plays, radio scripts, short stories, newspaper columns, comic books, scripting for the PBS animated series Auto-B-Good, and theology. He earned an MA in creative writing under science fiction legend James Gunn and completed his doctoral work in semiotic theology with Leonard Sweet. He lives in Olathe, Kansas, with his wife and dogs.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize of
a $50 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/3ede8/maxine-justice-public-offender-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Simple Harvest Reads, December 13 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 14 (Spotlight)
Artistic Nobody, December 15 (Author Interview)
Wishful Endings, December 15
Blossoms and Blessings, December 16 (Spotlight)
Texas Book-aholic, December 17
Fiction Book Lover, December 18 (Author Interview)
A Reader’s Brain, December 19 (Spotlight)
Blogging With Carol, December 19
Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 20
For the Love of Literature, December 21 (Author Interview)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 22
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 23 (Spotlight)
Stories By Gina, December 24 (Author Interview)
Guild Master, December 25 (Spotlight)
Books Less Travelled, December 26 (Spotlight)

1 Comment

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Mail-Order Duchess by Misty M. Beller (Give.away)

12/6/2025

5 Comments

Five sons of an English duke,
all raised in the Rocky Mountains…
A marriage born of duty. A love neither expected.

When Enoch Balfour’s eldest brother tragically dies, the weight of family responsibility falls on his shoulders. Now this Montana rancher must train for his role as the next Duke of Clarence—and marry the mail-order bride his brother sent for. Hardened by loss, Enoch has no intention of opening his heart to a stranger, but duty demands he produce an heir.
Mandie Beaumont is a desperate young widow fleeing the sinister advances of her brother-in-law. After arriving in the Montana Territory to marry a man she’s never met, an accident leaves her robbed of her recent memories—memories that conceal a devastating secret. When she discovers she’s carrying a child conceived through betrayal and violence, Mandie fears rejection and ruin. Yet, in Enoch, she finds an unexpected protector whose fierce gentleness makes her long to trust again.
Though Mandie’s charm and resilience begin to thaw Enoch’s guarded heart, he struggles with his fear of loss. When Mandie’s past resurfaces, Enoch must risk everything to save her. If he fails, Mandie will be torn from him—and the love they’ve begun to embrace could be lost forever.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a royal family saga featuring a mail-order bride, amnesia, a secret baby, and an aristocratic marriage of convenience…all set in the rugged Montana Territory.

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Can they find the peace they so desperately need....

I've enjoyed several of Misty M. Beller's series set in Montana so I was excited to see a new one in that much-loved setting. I'll also admit that the series name, Lords Of The Rockies, sounded quite intriguing as well.

Mail-Order Duchess lived up to expectation. It has the sweet historical romance punctuated with moments of pulse-pounding danger that I've come to expect from this author. It also features Misty M. Beller's almost trademark small cast of characters, it is so much easier for the reader to keep track of precisely who is who and get a chance to know each of them, and there is even a fun cameo appearance of a couple of characters from another book/series.

A little shorter than some of her other titles, Mail-Order Duchess was a good read and I finished it rather quickly. I genuinely liked both Mandie and Enoch right from the start. Each of them has a past and both are harboring intense pain and very understandable fears. By the final pages of this Lords Of The Rockies book they will both have to face their fears and just maybe conquer them together.

Misty M. Beller is off to a good new series start with this book. I did like Mail-Order Duchess and am now quite interested in reading the next title in the Lords Of The Rockies series. If you enjoy a good faith-filled historical romance and a western frontier setting give this book and series a try....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Mail-Order Duchess 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

Hello Reader Friends!

I’m BEYOND excited to share a brand new series with you! This idea has been percolating in my mind for a couple years now—a mash-up of two of my favorite historical romance genres: Regency England and the rugged American West.

In the Lords of the Rockies series, you’ll meet the five sons of an English duke who were sent to the wilds of the Montana Territory for their protection when they were boys. They’ve grown up there, become ranchers and mountain men in their own right.

It’s Regency meets the Rockies as these aristocratic brothers navigate the challenges of ranch life.

I’m especially excited to introduce you to the first book in the series, Mail-Order Duchess!

Enoch Balfour is one of my all-time favorite heroes…so incredibly swoony. He’s the second son, which means he never thought he would have to return to England and take over his father’s role as the Duke of Clarence. But now his eldest brother has passed in an unexpected riding accident. And Enoch has become the heir intended.

Can you imagine how hard that must have been? Suddenly having to leave the only life you’ve ever known to take up the duties of a title an ocean away?

And then there’s Mandie Beaumont, a young widow hoping for a fresh start in Montana. But when she arrives, an accident steals her recent memories, leaving her with no idea why she left her comfortable life in Savannah to travel across the country and marry a rancher she’s never met. Or maybe her previous life wasn’t so comfortable…

Can you imagine waking up one day to find yourself in a strange place with no recollection of how you got there or what you were running from?

I don’t want to give away too much, but let’s just say Mail-Order Duchess has all the ingredients for a story you won’t be able to put down—a marriage of convenience, hidden secrets, and an unlikely romance blossoming in the face of incredible odds. I’m so excited to share this story with you!

I’ve had such fun crafting the unique premise of an English aristocratic family making their way in the American West. Get ready for more heartfelt Western adventures tinged with Regency flair as the Lords of the Rockies series continues!
I pray you love Mail-Order Duchess!

Blessings!
Misty

Misty M. Beller

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author with over 1 million books sold. She writes 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/3e364/mail-order-duchess-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 2
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 2
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 3
Texas Book-aholic, December 3
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 4
Devoted Steps, December 5
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 5
Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 6
Simple Harvest Reads, December 6 (Guest Review from Marilyn)
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 7
For Him and My Family, December 7
Books You Can Feel Good About, December 8
Lyssa Loves Books, December 8
lakesidelivingsite, December 9
Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9
Connie’s History Classroom, December 10
Artistic Nobody, December 10 (Guest Review from Donna)
Jeanette’s Thoughts , December 11
Melissa’s Bookshelf, December 11
Holly’s Book Corner, December 12
Mary Hake, December 12
Bizwings Blog, December 13
Cover Lover Book Review, December 13
Life on Chickadee Lane, December 14
Blossoms and Blessings, December 14
Pause for Tales, December 15
Devoted To Hope, December 15

5 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Sons Of Day & Night by Mariposa Aristeo (Give.away)

11/29/2025

4 Comments

Not even death can tell them apart.

In the wild and lush kingdom of Twinsbane, everyone has a look-alike, and each twin is cursed to die when their double breathes their last. When an ancient plague arises, the kingdom’s only hope is to sever these deadly ties. Yet King Daccias refuses to relinquish the cure, a legendary potion called the Separator.

Waruu, an orphan determined to break these ties, discovers he’s the king’s doppelgänger. He’s certain that if he can switch places, he can save the kingdom. But if anyone learns his true identity, he’ll lose everything—including the people he’s desperately trying to protect.

King Daccias wants nothing more than for his subjects to cease threatening to behead him if he doesn’t hand over the Separator. Intent on catching those opposing him, he finds himself ensnared in his own trap. If he doesn’t break loose, the kingdom will rest in the hands of an insolent boy who knows nothing about the truth behind the events unfolding around him.

To save their kingdom, both Waruu and Daccias must face their greatest enemy—each other.

Genre: YA Fantasy – Retelling of The Prince and the Pauper
Release Date: November 18, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Will they save the kingdom or tear it apart....

Everyone in Twinsbane has a double. When that double dies, so do they. What an interesting concept. And a frightening one. Honestly, it's what first caught my attention about Sons Of Day & Night and what kept me glued to the page.

I'll admit that it took me a little bit to get into the first Chronicles Of Twinsbane novel as it felt like I was dropped into a story that had already started. However, it didn't take me too long to get into the swing of things and I was hooked on the rather interesting story.

One of the things that I liked about this book is that Mariposa Aristeo chose to write a retelling. But it's not any old fairytale retelling, instead it is of the classic Mark Twain book called The Prince And The Pauper. I did read The Prince And The Pauper years ago as a kid in school, and watched the old Wishbone show, so I am at least a little bit familiar with the story. I felt that The Sons Of Day & Night was pretty good as a retelling. The bones of the familiar story are there but Mariposa Aristeo also makes it her own.

Mariposa Aristeo's worldbuilding is pretty good in this first Chronicles Of Twinsbane book. From city to castle to jungle it all comes to life quite vividly. I also thought it was rather fun that versions of the word 'double' are used quite often in the story – which, is rather fitting since the realm is called Twinsbane.

Overall, The Sons Of Day & Night was a pretty good read. It did end on something of a cliffhanger so I am now rather anxious to find out what happens next to Waruu and Daccias in the next Chronicles of Twinsbane book. I'm also curious to discover just how far they are willing to go to save their kingdom....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Sons Of Day & Night by Mariposa Aristeo a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Mariposa

How could I refuse to write a retelling of The Prince & the Pauper?

(Kudos to all the zillennial girls who get that reference.)

Ever since I watched the Barbie rendition of this classic tale when I was just a little girl, this story has been on my heart. As I grew older, other more adventurous tales influenced me, such as Dreamwork’s How to Train Your Dragon, Jennifer Nielsen’s The False Prince, Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, and more recently, Star Wars’ The Bad Batch.

But no matter the story, one aspect stayed the same—finding people just like me in the unlikeliest of places.

Growing up, I had a different childhood than most. I was pretty isolated with little to no friends, and not much extended family. It wasn’t until my twenties that I met the people who would later become my true family. They weren’t blood relations, and we didn’t interact in person until years later (yay for internet friends!). We are different in all the best ways but the same in the ways that matter and weird in the way that makes life interesting.

The Prince & the Pauper is a story about many things. Empathy, compassion, and learning what it’s like to live in another person’s shoes. When I set out to write Sons of Day & Night, I wanted to pay homage to this underrated tale while deepening the bond between the two very different (but also very alike) heroes. It’s not just a story about switched identities, it’s a story about the family we find even when our world is falling apart.

When my mom passed away from cancer in 2022, I felt like my world truly was falling to pieces. Besides losing a parent, I also lost what little I had of a normal family. But my found family came together to be there for me and be the family I never had.

We don’t share the same genetics, but they are every bit as much my brothers and sisters. As Stitch once said, “This is my family. I found it all on my own.”

Fast forward a few years, and I now live within 60 miles of my found family and see them almost every week. It’s funny to think how a few internet strangers became such a huge part of my life, but sometimes God sends us family in the places we least expect it.

And my hope is that Sons of Day & Night will remind you that there’s always someone out there just like you.

Mariposa Aristeo

Mariposa Aristeo is a writer of fantastical adventures filled with heart, humor, hope, and sometimes dinosaurs. But, most importantly, she’s a creative who seeks to glorify God on every page of her life. Besides writing snarky characters who sass everybody, Mariposa loves bringing stories to life in full color as an illustrator. She also enjoys inspiring other creatives as the Public Relations Director at Story Embers and the Social Media Manager at the Young Writer’s Workshop.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Mariposa is giving away the grand prize of
a $50 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/3dc7e/sons-of-day

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, November 20
Inspired by Fiction, November 21
The Lofty Pages, November 22
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 23 (Spotlight)
Wishful Endings, November 24
CeCe Reads and Sings, November 24
History, Hope & Happily Ever After, November 25 (Author Interview)
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 26
Guild Master, November 27 (Author Interview)
Blogging With Carol, November 28
Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 29
Simple Harvest Reads, November 30 (Author Interview)
The Mommies Reviews, November 30
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 1
Labor Not in Vain, December 2
Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 3 (Author Interview)

4 Comments

Book Review - The Amish Nanny's Secret by Amy Lillard

11/9/2025

2 Comments

Will a temporary arrangement
turn into the love she needs?

Naomi Ebersol has always felt like the black sheep of her Amish community, and even more so now that she’s been accepted into art school. It’ll be difficult leaving Millers Creek behind, but she longs to follow her heart. To pay for her tuition, she agrees to be a nanny for widower Josias Schrock, who needs help caring for his five energetic little boys. Only now, everyone in their community thinks they’re engaged! Being around his family starts to feel all too real. But how can Naomi choose between the dream she’s always wanted…and the promise of love?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

ISBN-13: ‎978-1335621146

My Review

5 boys + 1 summer job = Pandemonium and Romance...

It's no secret that I enjoy Amy Lillard's Amish fiction. From her cozy mysteries all the way through to her Love Inspired titles like this one. The Amish Nanny's Secret is a sweet story and for me was a relatively quick read. I liked both Naomi and Josias. Both of them feel like genuine people. They stick their feet in their mouths on a somewhat regular basis and they have a good case of miscommunication and assumption going on. However, it was the 5 little boys that made me laugh and quite won my heart. They are too adorable in their childhood mishaps and blunders. However, that childish openness might be just what Naomi and Josias need. Anyway, after reading several fantasy, adventure, and suspense books in a row it was nice to sit back and simply enjoy a sweet romance. Besides, what could go wrong with - and be more fun than - finger paints, burnt oatmeal, and a kitten....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Amish Nanny's Secret by Amy Lillard a 4 Bark rating.

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

2 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Glass Across The Sea by Sara Ella (Giveaway)

11/3/2025

2 Comments

Light always finds a way to break free . . .

Noelle Perrault has felt drawn to the tales her glassmaker father told of the four Firefly artisans since she was a child. But when her mother falls under a curse, Noelle suspects the stories are more than mere fables. Their last hope is for her father to embark on a desperate journey to another realm, where he must seek a miracle. Alone but not defenseless, Noelle is forced to navigate battles that rise against her beloved home, while her dearest friend, the prince, vows to help her father.
Dante Marin is a prince prepared to bear the crown. But the king offers an ultimatum: find the fabled Firefly Vestiges, believed to hold the Lamplighter’s ancient power, or forfeit the crown. Only then will Dante be considered worthy of his birthright and given the freedom to choose his bride. But how does one hunt down a legend?
Connected by the past, but forced apart in the present, Noelle and Dante must discover the truth about the Firefly and Vestiges before they lose all hope—and each other—for good. But breaking a curse comes at a great sacrifice—one neither of them predicted. With a mysterious foe rising to power, will they survive, let alone succeed? Or will darkness shroud their future, shattering the light they’ve striven to restore?

Genre: YA Cinderella Retelling (Fantasy)
Release Date: October 21, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

They'll both do anything for those they love....

I fell for Sara Ella's vivid storytelling with her Wonderland duology so you can imagine my excitement when I found out that she was starting off a brand new series, Realms Of Allumeria, with a Cinderella retelling – I also love fairytale retelling, by the way...

And Glass Across The Sea is just any old retelling of the much loved fairytale. The bones of the story we are all so familiar with are most definitely still there but Sara Ella takes them and reweaves them into a tale entirely her own.

And this is a very vibrantly told story indeed. The Realms Of Allumeria come alive in a way that is simple but easy to visualize each scene. The are plenty of twists and turns and even a few surprises along the way for both Noelle and Dante – and by turn, readers. They are a charming young couple and you can't help but like them both as you get to know them better.

I've read quite a few Cinderella retellings and one thing that I really appreciated about Glass Across The Sea is that the heroine's name is not just another variation of the name Ella.

I will confess that I did like The Curious Realities duology – with its darker vibe – a bit more. However, Glass Across The Sea was one of the more unique and interesting Cinderella retellings and it was definitely a good read. This was a great start to the Realms Of Allumeria and I find myself looking forward to reading the next book in this new series from fantasy author Sara Ella....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Glass Across The Sea by Sara Ella a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Sara

Whenever I start writing a new story, I always comb the internet for the perfect images to represent my characters. Sometimes it’s an actress or actor who fits the character description. Other times, I’ll find some artwork or a painting that fits the picture I have in my mind.

But when it came to finding the right image to represent Noelle Perrault, the protagonist of Glass Across the Sea, I could not for the life of me find what I was looking for. Partly because the heroine is heavily based on my oldest daughter, who shares the same name. No image online was good enough to represent a character and novel dedicated to her.

And then I found this painting titled “Cinderella’s New Day” by artist Heather Edwards back in 2023.

And that was it! “So This is Love” from Disney’s animated classic began playing in my head, and I knew I’d found the image I would keep in my mind for the duration of writing my Cinderella retelling.

This depiction is soft and sweet and felt personal in a way a photo of an actress didn’t. I also felt this painting captured the character and personality of my heroine in a way that would keep me going, even on my most difficult writing days.

Fast forward to 2024. I was behind on my book deadline and life’s interruptions kept getting in the way of my writing. I felt depleted and almost asked my publisher to cancel my contract. But then I attended an event where this same artist had her work on display, and there it was. The real-life, in-person canvas of this very same painting.

That moment felt like God was reminding me He had called me to write this book in the first place. That He had a plan for it and wanted me to keep going. This very painting is the reason I added this line to Glass Across the Sea:

“Art, in her view, was never a laughing matter. A piece might evoke hope in one while it produced sorrow in the heart of another. It was the same for music. For dance.”

And then came 2025. A year of grief and loss in many ways for our family. Once again, everything was getting in the way of this story ever making it to print. And, once again, I considered maybe it was not meant to be published after all. Through many tears and long nights, I revised, pushing to meet deadlines. I questioned if it was worth it. I questioned my own strength and writing abilities, only to be reminded that it is only through God’s grace and Christ’s strength I can do anything at all.

I came across this painting in person again this year at that same event. And, just as it had done in the past, this painting reminded me there was a “new day” just around the corner. My best friend, Nadine Brandes (she knows me so well), surprised me with a signed and personalized canvas print that day. The timing could not have been more perfect.

This painting is more than just a reminder to “have courage and be kind.” It’s a testament to God’s goodness and faithfulness, even amidst darkness and pain. My prayer for Glass Across the Sea is that it blesses readers in the same way this painting has blessed me. Wherever you find yourself today, I hope you keep going and trust the Lord to give you what you need in the moment you need it. In my experience, He often reveals Himself in the unexpected corners and small moments I least suspect.

Sara Ella

Once upon a time, Sara Ella brought dreams to life as a Disney cast member, wishing for the day she’d find her prince and live in a castle of her own. Now she spends her days homeschooling her three Jedi in training, braving the Arizona summers, and reminding her superhero husband that it’s almost Christmas (even if it’s only January). Sara is the award-winning author of The Wonderland Trials, Coral, and the Unblemished trilogy. She is old enough for fairy tales and believes happily ever after is never far away.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour Sara is giving away the grand prize of a signed hardcover of
Glass Across the Sea with Painted Edges designed by @hilltop_art, Glass Across
the Sea themed candle from @lamplighterliterary, and a $25 Disney 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/3d286/glass-across-the-sea-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, October 25
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, October 25
Inspired by Fiction, October 26
Wishful Endings, October 27
The Lofty Pages, October 27
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 28
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 29 (Spotlight)
Devoted Steps, October 29
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 30
For Him and My Family, October 31
Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, November 1
Blogging With Carol, November 1
Inklings and Notions, November 2
The Important Things in Life: God, Books, & Chocolate, November 2
Book Butterfly in Dreamland, November 3
Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 3
Labor Not in Vain, November 4
CeCe Reads and Sings, November 4
Holly’s Book Corner, November 5
To Everything There Is A Season, November 6
Min Reads and Reviews, November 7

2 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Wasted by Jerusha Agen (Give.away)

10/30/2025

6 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Wasted by Jerusha Agen,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

She always follows the rules. But what are the rules for murder?

Victoria Weston encounters tough things as a home health physical therapist, but this is a first—a dead body. The police call the patient’s death accidental. Victoria knows that can’t be true. Her efforts to convince the police they’re dealing with a murder get her labeled a troublemaker by all but one man—the troubler of her youth.

When Cillian Doherty returns to right the wrongs of the past, he finds his high school flame in a different kind of danger than he expected. As a social worker, he’s in the perfect position to corroborate her cry of murder or give her what she wanted—to handle her problems without his help.

But someone wants to silence Victoria. When lies escalate to violence and threaten more lives, the Weston siblings join the battle to save their sister.

Yet it will take a God more powerful than all of them for Cillian and Victoria to make peace with their past and catch the killer. Before the killer catches them.

Wasted continues the thrilling Windy City Westons series that features five siblings who encounter danger,
love, and God in the city of Chicago. (Each book can stand alone or be read as series installments.)

Publisher: SDG Words, LLC
Release Date: October 23, 2025
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

"Fast-paced, explosive thriller. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough."
– Carrie Stuart Parks, award-winning, bestselling author of Relative Silence on Rising Danger

More in This Series

My Review

They have a past. Will a killer stop their future?

I am not new to Jerusha Agen's romantic suspense as I loved her Guardians Unleashed series, however, I am new to the Windy City Westons despite Wasted being the second book. I was simply intrigued by the cover and a fan of the author so I decided to dive in anyway.

One thing I'd like to say right off is that I really loved that neither the heroine nor hero are in any form of law enforcement or military. As much as I enjoy stories with those occupations, it's also nice to read about characters who have everyday jobs – in this case, physical therapist and social worker – but still manage to figure out who-done-it.

The mystery element is very well done with some red herrings and a few unexpected surprises along the way. I can usually figure out a killer long before the reveal but this one I didn't. I did guess correctly who had NOT done it but the real murderer's ID was as much of a revelation to me as it was to the lead characters.

I'll have to admit that I had a hard time connecting with the main characters. Honestly, they both irritated me but for opposite reasons. But, I couldn't put the book down. I had to know what happened next. I had to find out who killed Victoria's patient. I had to see if both she and Cillian could lay aside the past and move beyond their stubborn mistakes. I didn't finished Wasted in a single sitting but it wasn't too far from it either.

This is the second book in the Windy City Westons but I must say that after reading it, I am definitely intrigued by the rather dysfunctional family and curious to find out what danger and romance that Jerusha Agen will bring their way in the next one....

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

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

Jerusha Agen

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies. Find more of Jerusha’s thrilling, fear-fighting stories at JerushaAgen.com.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback copy of Wasted, a $25
Barnes and Noble gift card, and a Wasted mug, notebook, and magnet!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 27, 2025 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on November 3, 2025. Winners 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!

6 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Mistletoe And Mayhem by Janice Thompson (Give.away)

10/11/2025

3 Comments

A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch

Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red
truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.

It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.

Genre: Mystery/Christian Fiction/Christmas
Release Date: September, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Only romantic sparks should be in the air....

It's finally happening! RaeLyn and Mason are getting married with Tilly as co-star! However, it wouldn't be The Little Red Truck Mysteries without some laughter and tears and a whole lot of mayhem for the rambunctious and quirky Hadley clan.

To start with, I have to say that this cover is one of my favorites this year. Elements of the story are everywhere and Pawpaw's, now RaeLyn's, truck, Tilly, is front and center where she should be. Mistletoe And Mayhem was both an interesting and fun read....and, as someone who lives in a state with frequent forest fires, a little chilling to think about. Seriously, Janice Thompson did an excellent job capturing the intense thoughts and frantic desperation when fire is at your doorstep.

There was a little less mystery in Mistletoe And Mayhem than in the previous Little Red Truck Mysteries but it was no less enjoyable. Riding along with RaeLyn, Mason, and the rest of the Hadleys for that final week leading up to the amazing Christmas themed wedding filled with all things Texas and traditional was definitely fun.

The mystery thread, was still interesting as the suspects in the wildfire are not the people who might have might not normally have invited suspicion. Janice Thompson did a good job peppering clues, red herrings, and drama throughout the story and the final revelation of who-done-it.

I honestly don't know if there will be more Little Red Truck Mysteries but I know that I have liked the three that have been released. Janice Thompson does cozy mystery just as well as her romantic comedies and I try not to miss any of them. Just know that when you read Mistletoe And Mayhem you might want to have a little snack with you because these Texans really know how to eat....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Mistletoe And Mayhem by Janice Thompson a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Janice

In the mid-90s, as my children and I drove up to the Mabank area from our home in Houston, we saw smoke off in the distance. The closer we got to my mother and stepfather’s acreage—sixty-three gorgeous acres of cattle land—the thicker the smoke got.

When we arrived on Mom’s street the reality of what faced us was unavoidable. The property across the road, to our left, was in a roaring blaze, flames moving so fast my car could barely get past them on the narrow country road.

We miraculously made it to Mom’s driveway and went inside her home, hearts racing. In that moment, a decision was made to gather in a circle and pray. We offered up a passionate plea for the Lord’s protection then rushed outside to grab hoses to help water everything down.

As I sat to write Mistletoe and Mayhem, my latest cozy mystery from Barbour Publishing, I was faced with the memories of this terrifying trip. Just as you read in this story, firefighters got that massive blazed stopped, right at the edge of her property. And I can tell you as a first-hand witness that not a spark landed on any of us. Whenever I reflect on this event I’m reminded of God’s ultimate faithfulness. He spared us from certain catastrophe.

I can assure you, we as a family never forgot the mercy and grace of God as we faced our Isaiah 43 moment. No doubt you’ve been through a few fires, too. Fear not. The Lord is right there, ready to carry you through. You can trust Him, even in the fiery trials of life.

Blessings on you all,
Janice Thompson

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name;
you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and
when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you
ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Isaiah 43:1b-3

Janice Thompson

Janice Thompson, who lives in the Houston area, writes romantic comedies, cozy mysteries, nonfiction devotionals, and musical comedies for the stage. She is the mother of four daughters and nine feisty grandchildren. When she’s not writing books or taking care of foster dogs you’ll find her in the kitchen, baking up specialty cakes and cookies.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Janice is giving away
a $25 Amazon e-Gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/3d26a/mistletoe-and-mayhem-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 3
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 4
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 5
Texas Book-aholic, October 6
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 7
For Him and My Family, October 8
Blossoms and Blessings, October 9 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, October 9
Leslie’s Library Escape, October 10
Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 11
Holly’s Book Corner, October 12
Lights in a Dark World, October 12
Bizwings Book Blog, October 13
Pause for Tales, October 14
Cover Lover Book Review, October 15
Labor Not in Vain, October 16

3 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Escaping The Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks (Give.away)

10/8/2025

2 Comments

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Escaping the Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

On the run through the mountains--
with only each other to trust.

Amanda Cotton’s privileged life takes a harrowing turn when her grandfather’s dying wish places a target firmly on her back and she’s attacked by unknown assailants. Rescue comes in the form of widowed outdoorsman Boone McGregor, but the threat is just beginning. Unable to trust local law enforcement, they flee across the rugged Montana mountains. As they evade deadly enemies and navigate harsh terrain, they must put aside their differences to survive. But when a family secret is exposed, danger is closer than they imagined and more than just their lives is at stake…

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: September 30, 2025
Genre: Romantic Suspense

Also Available

My Review

Will the bad guys or nature get them first?

I fell in love with Carrie Stuart Parks' riveting suspense after reading her larger novels so when I saw her name on a Love Inspired Suspense book, well, it went right up near the top of my want to read list. I knew there was no way that Escaping The Wilderness could disappoint....and I was right.

The story starts off with a rather amusing horse but, oh, does it take off from there. Before you know it our heroine and her hero are on the run facing bad guys, wild animals, blizzards, and more. It's been a little while since I've read a Love Inspired Suspense and it was fun to dive back in with an author that I really enjoy and a story that kept me on the edge of my seat. Trust me, Escaping The Wilderness is a wild ride of danger, suspense, mystery, betrayal, and secrets. Oh, and it has some lovely romantic sparks thrown in there too.

One of the things that I really liked about this book is that Carrie Stuart Parks chose to avoid the usual law enforcement or military career for one or both of her lead characters. I thought that it really added to the suspense that neither were skilled operatives but both had skills and knowledge – he in the wilderness and she in society – that help them. Speaking of the wilderness, I also loved the western Montana setting.

Escaping The Wilderness is fun relatively quick read that is well worth the time. Carrie Stuart Parks did a great job with her first foray into Love Inspired Suspense and I can't wait to read more from her....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Escaping The Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks a 4 Bark rating.

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

Carrie Stuart Parks

Carrie Stuart Parks is an internationally known forensic artist and law enforcement instructor, working on major criminal cases nationwide. She trains law enforcement professionals such as the FBI, Secret Service, NCIS, Federal Marshals, RCMP, Texas Rangers, and local and regional officers. She was nominated for Law Enforcement Trainer of the Year offered by the Federal Law Enforcement Academy at Glynco, Georgia. Her career highlights also include winning Woman of the Year for the Spirit of the American Woman and the first Educator of the Year by the Lewis Clark Alumni.

Her bestselling mystery/suspense novels have won numerous awards including two Christys and four Carols. She was
mentored by her friend Frank Peretti for eight years before launching her fiction writing career. Before that, she wrote
and illustrated best-selling art books for North Light Publishers. As a professional fine artist, her paintings hang in many
corporate and private collections. Connect with Carrie by visiting stuartparks.com/carrie-stuart-parks-home-page
to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a small, original watercolor by
author & professional fine artist Carrie Stuart Parks!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 6, 2025 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on October 13, 2025. 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!

2 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Warsafe by Lauren Smyth (Give.away)

6/5/2025

2 Comments

Play. Win. Survive.

There’s one building on her island that Halley has never visited: the Mercenary House. Perched atop a mountain, surrounded by unnaturally evergreen foliage, the House is rumored to be a breeding ground for criminals. Mercenaries are liars, cheats, spies . . . and maybe, depending on who you ask, killers.

At the Warsafe headquarters in Seattle, Roscoe is beta testing the company’s new video game. It’s her job to track down glitches—but something is different about this one. Lurking behind the lines of malfunctioning code is a secret that threatens to drag her deeper into the game, forcing her to put her life on the line if she ever wants to come home.

Worlds collide as Roscoe teams up with Halley to uncover the island’s secret and expose Warsafe’s designs. But some mysteries are better left unsolved. As traitor after so-called traitor is revealed to be on their side, they begin to wonder: Could Warsafe’s mission be critical enough to justify its cruelty?

Genre: YA Science Fiction
Release date: May 6, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

How far will they have go to uncover the truth....

I'll admit that I picked this book up because I've liked pretty much every title that I've read from the publisher. Warsafe turned out to be no exception. I found the story to be intriguing right from the start and that never let up all the way through the last page. The blur between fiction and reality that makes up the heart of this story from Lauren Smyth was just too interesting to put down.

The mix of familiar and sci-fi was something that I enjoyed in Warsafe. It really kept the story grounded while allowing the imagination to fully engage. Lauren Smyth's writing style and worldbuilding skills were also something I appreciated as they kept the story moving forward with no lags and made me feel like I was right there with each of the story's leads.

Aimed at mid to older teens, Lauren Smyth's Warsafe is a bit edgy in all of the best ways that make for a good Christian sci-fi or fantasy novel that can also be enjoyed by adult fans of those genres.

This was my first Lauren Smyth novel but after reading Warsafe I doubt it will be my last. It was exciting, had an interesting premise, and was just flat out a good and entertaining read....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Warsafe by Lauren Smyth a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Lauren

The Mercenary House, where much of Warsafe takes place, quite literally appeared to me in a dream.

By age 12, I’d already watched way too many action-adventure movies. (Did anyone else grow up on Tom Clancy--The Hunt for Red October, Patriot Games?) Most nights, I was hyped on fictional adrenaline, and I was able to lucid dream. So I got to star in highly imaginative and unrealistic versions of my favorite spy stories when I fell asleep.

That night, I found myself trapped in the basement of an eight-story house. Guards patrolled the rooms outside, and somehow I knew I had to sneak past them to reach the top floor. I also knew I was dreaming and in no real danger, which made me brave. So I crawled through air ducts, hid in shadowy corners, and darted behind turned backs. And I escaped.

The dream was so logical compared to others I’d had that it stuck in my mind. Why was I trying to get to the roof? Why did I agree to play this “game?” What was the secret behind that dilapidated, shadowy building where I’d been imprisoned?

A few years later, I started coding video games. My first full-length game featured more than 100,000 lines of code and is probably part of the reason why I’m so near-sighted. I loved the results, but not the process. More than coding, I realized I loved storytelling—weaving together sentences and images and movements that became a world on the reader’s screen.

I hadn’t forgotten my dream, but I didn’t have the Python know-how to turn it into a game. And I’d gotten sick of naming variables. (Somewhere in the source code for that first game, there’s an if-then statement oh-so-creatively named “againagainagainagainagainagainagain.” See also the classic: “help.”) What if, instead of crawling back to my code editing software, I wrote a book?

And what if that book wasn’t just about a fictional video game, but was also an exploration of morality, economics, and politics in a parallel world?

I believe that good books don’t answer questions; they make you ask new ones. They draw you into a situation you’ve never experienced and force you to take sides, rooting for or against characters, judging or supporting their choices. If you could stop a catastrophe by sacrificing a few people, would you do it? If you were offered control over someone’s life, would you take it?

That’s the central dilemma of Warsafe. What you choose, who you agree with is up to you. Like a real video game, Warsafe lets you confront the same choices as the characters and work your way out of the puzzle—if you can do it without compromising your morality.

Remember Warsafe’s motto: Safety requires the many to sacrifice the one.

Disagree?

Enter the Warsafe universe and prove it.

Lauren Smyth

Lauren Smyth is an economics and journalism student at Hillsdale College. Since signing her first publishing contract at age 13, she has written three young adult action/adventure novels, coded two story-based video games, and started a blog enjoyed by readers and writers around the world. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her flying right seat in a Piper PA-30 aircraft, recording episodes of her Grammar Minute writing podcast, or heading upriver on her paddleboard.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Lauren is giving away the grand prize of
a $25 Amazon card and a signed, hardcover copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54229

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 27
Artistic Nobody, May 28 (Author Interview)
CeCe Reads and Sings, May 28
Locks, Hooks and Books, May 29
The Lofty Pages, May 30
Guild Master, May 31 (Author Interview)
For Him and My Family, June 1
Texas Book-aholic, June 2
Fiction Book Lover, June 3 (Author Interview)
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 4
Tell Tale Book Reviews, June 5
Simple Harvest Reads, June 6 (Guest Review from Mindy)
For the Love of Literature, June 7 (Author Interview)
Blogging With Carol, June 8
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 9 (Spotlight)
Inklings and Notions, June 9

2 Comments

Book Review - The Amish Bachelor's Promise by Amy Lillard

6/1/2025

0 Comments

From a lifelong friendship
To an unexpected courtship…

After years of overlooking his best friend, Amish farmer Freeman Yoder finally begins to see Evie Ebersol through new eyes. But Evie is convinced that she would be a rebound—and that her physical challenges would be a burden. Despite loving Freeman for most of her life and yearning for a family and home of her own, she refuses to hold Freeman to his decades-old promise to marry her. Now he’s determined to show Evie that she’s the only one he wants to build a future with.

ISBN-13: 9781335937254

My Review

Soap, goats, and a childhood promise....

It's been awhile since I've read such a sweet romance story and I can tell you that it was high time that I did. The Amish Bachelor's Promise was the perfect way to spend an afternoon. It had me smiling and even laughing at the antics of a certain small goat.

I truly liked Evie and Freeman from the very start of the book. Evie doesn't let her physical disability stop her and Freeman is such a genuinely caring person. I was honestly surprised at just how much I was caught up in their story and how invested I was in the outcome of such a quick read.

Amy Lillard has a charming story in this 200+ page book and it was a definitely enjoyable read. The characters are likable and you can't help but root for these two friends to overcome the obstacles potentially keeping them apart.

If you are looking for a cute story and a quick read with an Amish theme The Amish Bachelor's Promise from Amy Lillard is a great choice....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Amish Bachelor's Promise by Amy Lillard a 4 Bark rating.

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

0 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Illuminary by Chawna Schroeder (Give.away)

5/8/2025

3 Comments

Glimpse the past, illuminate the future.

Yosarai Patican dreams of becoming an illuminator in a country that values art above all else. A lofty goal that finally seems within reach when she earns a position at the prestigious Academy of the Seven

Arts. Although Yosarai loathes to leave behind her quiet country life, she travels to the capital, determined to live up to her mother’s fame asone of Indel’s greatest artists.

Prince Xander never planned to become king. Indeed, he never wanted to become king. But when his father dies suddenly, he is thrust into the middle of coronation preparations—and assassination attempts. With everyone around him in increasing danger, Xander decides to hide in neighboring Indel until the time for him to be crowned king arrives.

Posing as an inventor struggling with aesthetics, Xander enlists Yosarai’s aid as part of his cover, but soon he suspects she knows more than she should. But when danger threatens and secrets are exposed, entering a competition reputed as cutthroat may be the only way for them to protect everything they hold dear.

Genre: YA Fantasy inspired by A Little Princess
Release date: April 8, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Danger comes in many forms....

I got hooked on Chawna Schroeder's fiction awhile back when I read The Vault Between Spaces so I've been looking forward to Illuminary since first hearing about it. As expected it turned out to be a great start to the intriguingly titled The Sceptre & The Stylus series.

With her trademark attention to detail and excellent fantasy worldbuilding skills, Chawna Schroeder introduces an interesting tale with nods to the Bible and Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess. I found the story to be a faster read than even I expected as my curiosity kept me turning those pages even when I should have headed off for bed.

I was excited to find out that Illuminary is the first book in a planned trilogy as that means I will get the chance to revisit The Sceptre & The Stylus characters again instead of having to say goodbye what feels like too soon.

Great for older YA readers, Illuminary can also entertain adults, such as myself, equally as well. The addition of things like trains and automatons makes The Sceptre & The Stylus trilogy from Chawna Schroeder even more interesting. I enjoyed this first book in the series and now I am definitely looking forward to the next book so I can find out where Yosarai and Xander will find themselves next....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Illuminary by Chawna Schroeder a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Chawna

Why I Love “A Little Princess”

Illuminary begins a fantasy trilogy loosely inspired by A Little Princess. This classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a book I’ve read almost annually since I was a preteen, with some years containing two or more readings. It is a story that never fails to enchant me no matter how often I read it, and it carries for me the same magic that Anne of Green Gables has for many other girls.

Yet unlike Anne, who endears herself to almost all who meet her, the young heroine of A Little Princess, Sara Crewe, is known to be a somewhat divisive character—the kind you either adore or hate the moment you meet her, much like the characters within the story itself. So, what draws me back to this young protagonist again and again?

The reasons are many. I love her imagination, her intelligence, her ability for the perfect comeback, her courage in the face of horrifying circumstances, her uniqueness—all characteristics that I’ve tried to endow upon the heroine of Illuminary to some extent.

But I think the thing I hope my heroine in Illuminary emulates most is Sara’s unshakeable character. For Sara is a principled young lady, and no matter what is thrown at her, she holds onto those principles without wavering.

Often in literature, it seems like the good, principled characters, when they are faced with great difficulty, end up struggling with their principles, debating whether they are good or worthwhile. In some stories, those characters even outright reject those principles for a time.

While these are good and needed stories to tell, sometimes they are portrayed as the only accurate arcs for such characters—as if characters holding onto their principles and maintaining their integrity is somehow unrealistic. A charge originating, I suppose, from those too sweet, too perfect characters found in morality tales.

Yet while such characters of integrity and principle might be rare, Scripture shows us that hard times don’t have to shake one’s principles or undermine one’s integrity. Both Joseph in the book of Genesis and Daniel in the book bearing his name exemplify this kind of life. And we see this same principled integrity in Sara Crewe.

It is not that she is some perfectly sweet heroine. Sara has a temper, struggles with some uncharitable thoughts toward others, and even misjudges another character terribly. Nor does she fail to grow. The Sara at the end of the story is definitely a more mature, thoughtful, and understanding girl than the one who began the tale.

But the core essence of her character—her politeness, generosity, and compassion as summarized by her wish to act like a princess—does not change in the story. The core characteristics that make Sara Crewe, Sara Crewe, are unshaken. They may grow and expand with the character, but these essential attributes characterize her throughout the entire story. Even in her darkest moments she holds fast to them.

That is both hopeful and encouraging. For we all will face hard and difficult times. A Little Princess doesn’t deny that reality. Rather, it says that those hard times don’t have to destroy us and that holding onto one’s integrity, one’s faith, is possible.

For me, that is what makes Sara Crewe and A Little Princess truly magical—and what I hope will make Illuminary magical for its readers.

Chawna Schroeder

Chawna Schroeder loves exploring the wonder of God through the intersection of imagination and faith. When she isn’t reading or writing, she may be found practicing piano, reading biblical Greek or Hebrew, preparing for the Bible study she teaches, or working onone of her handwork projects while enjoying a movie.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Chawna is giving away the grand prize of a 2.5” x 9.5” poster
of Psalm 46:5 and 10-11 illuminated by artist and calligrapher Timothy Botts, a
signed copy of the book, a $25 Amazon gift card, a glass stylus, and 5 bookish stickers!!

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

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Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 29
Artistic Nobody, April 30 (Author Interview)
CeCe Reads and Sings, April 30
The Lofty Pages, May 1
Wishful Endings, May 2
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 3 (Spotlight)
Simple Harvest Reads, May 3 (Guest Review from Mindy)
Locks, Hooks and Books, May 4
Guild Master, May 5 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, May 6
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 7
Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 8
Inklings and Notions, May 9
Fiction Book Lover, May 10 (Author Interview)
Blogging With Carol, May 11
Labor Not in Vain, May 12

3 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - When The Sky Burned by Liz Tolsma (Give.away)

4/5/2025

3 Comments

A Tornado of Fire and Embezzlement
Sweep through a Community

Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.

Promising painter Mariah Randolph longs to have her canvases displayed in the world’s best museums, and Hollis Stanford, the heir of a railroad tycoon, is her ticket to success. The railroad’s bookkeeper, Jay Franklin, discovers discrepancies and is convinced that Hollis is stealing from the company. But any proof of his dirty dealings go up in smoke when fire utterly destroys the town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, October 8, 1871.
The fire leaves Mariah blind, but Jay befriends her and even helps her to start painting again. But a trip to Chicago to return Hollis’s daughter to him could put both Mariah and Jay in more danger than even the fire that devastated the town and their lives.

Genre: Christian Fiction / Romance / Historical Fiction
Release date: March 1, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

One little spark changes their lives forever....

I remember reading in horrified fascination about the Peshtigo Fire a number of years ago so I was completely intrigued to see that Liz Tolsma's installment in the A Day To Remember series would be set during that historical event.

With an embezzlement mystery and a firestorm of unimaginable proportions, When The Sky Burned is quite the historical with a healthy dash of romance. I found myself caught up in Mariah and Jay's lives right away and I hoped that they would find answers before it was too late.

The actual fire is only a smallish part of the story as Liz Tolsma delves into the trauma, heartbreak, pain, and loss of such a disaster. Her characters struggle with how God could allow something so horrific to happen – questions any of us would have in those circumstances.

Our heroine and hero don't get much of a chance to pick up the pieces of their lives before danger and betrayal rear their ugly heads. Of course, that only means that readers will flip those pages even faster in order to find out how it all comes out.

This 6th A Day To Remember book is a good read and inspires you to find out more about some slightly lesser known history. If you are a fan of the author or the series you won't want to miss When The Sky Burned....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives When The Sky Burned by Liz Tolsma a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Liz

I stared at my computer screen in front of me. For years, I had been searching for my great-grandmother, Anna. I got no good information. Census records in the US weren’t helpful. Some listed her birthplace as Czechoslovakia, while others had it as Austria. I had heard before that she might have been born in Czechoslovakia before, but never Austria. There were no records that I had come across that listed the city or town where she was born.

Until that one day. While searching for my great-grandmother, I ran across a passport application recorded in Warsaw, Poland, for an Anna with the same last name, though spelled differently. Her birthday was listed as 1903, which matched the birth year I knew for my great-grandmother’s niece. As I read through the application, my heart was pounding. This Anna was born in the United States but went to Dubne, Poland, with her family in 1906. It was now 1923, and she wanted to return to the US, and she would be living with…

I started to cry when I saw who her sponsor was. My great-grandfather. The name and address were correct. There could be no doubt about it. It had taken me years, but I finally made the jump to Europe and discovered that my great-grandmother was not born in Czechoslovakia but in what was then the Austro-Hungarian Empire and is now Poland.

Of course, good little researcher that I am, I had to find out all I could about Dubne, the town they were from. That’s when I first came across the term Lemko. What on earth was that?

Lemkos are a Slavic people that settled in the Carpathian Mountains of Southern Poland, Northern Slovakia, and Western Ukraine. They are also known as Lemko Rusyns, Rusyns (especially those born in Slovakia, like my great-grandfather), and Carptho-Rusyns. The mountains kept the world at bay, and they developed their own language, customs, and form of Christianity. For the most part, they were very poor, many of them eking out a living from the rocky ground.

They lived in “black houses,” called that because the poorest people couldn’t afford to have a chimney built. The smoke from the cooking and heating fires stayed inside the house and covered the walls with black tar. If you look at the cemetery records from Dubne, you would be old if you lived into your fifties. Conditions were brutal.

The most the average Lemko could afford was one sheep or one pig. Since this was their most prized possession, they couldn’t take the chance of a wild animal or a neighbor taking it away, so it lived in the house with them.

With all of them. Up to eleven people would live in a two-room house. When I mentioned that in What I Left for You, my editor questioned if I had made a mistake. No, I didn’t. I have no idea how they fit all those people in there, but they did. As I was tracking one branch of our family tree, I kept coming up with people living in house 43. Over and over and over. They stuffed that house full. Grandparents, parents, and children all lived together. They may not have had much, but that forged the Lemkos into strong and resilient people.

I’m proud to be Lemko-Rusyn, and I’m thrilled to share this story with you. I infused Helena, the historical heroine, with as much of the Lemko spunk and spirit as I could. Last October, my daughter and I had the privilege to travel to Poland and Slovakia and see the Lemko homeland for ourselves. It helped me to write a better, richer story because I now understand where they came from and who they were. Enjoy Helena’s story and her journey during WWII and beyond. I hope you come to understand and appreciate the Lemko people as much as I have.

Liz Tolsma

Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a US Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Liz is giving away the grand prize of
a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card and a print copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54187

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 27
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 27
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 28
Pens Pages & Pulses, March 28
Books You Can Feel Good About, March 29
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 29
Simple Harvest Reads, March 30 (Guest Review from Marilyn)
Texas Book-aholic, March 30
Betti Mace, March 31
Lily’s Corner, March 31
Life on Chickadee Lane, April 1
Devoted Steps, April 1
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 2
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 3
Blogging with Carol, April 4
Connie’s History Classroom, April 4
Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 5
For Him and My Family, April 5
Stories By Gina, April 6 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, April 6
Bizwings Book Blog, April 7
Cover Lover Book Review, April 7
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, April 8
Jodie Wolfe, April 8
Holly’s Book Corner, April 9
Pause for Tales, April 9

3 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Sabotage At Cedar Creek by Janice Thompson (Give.away)

3/7/2025

7 Comments

Who Would Sabotage the New B&B?
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red
truck in book two of a new cozy mystery series

It’s summertime in Mabank, Texas, and the Hadley family’s new antique business is open and running well with Tilly, the red antique truck, as its mascot. Raelynn Hadley enjoys driving Grandpa’s truck around as she seeks out antiques for her family’s store.
Raelynn is excited that her best friend, Tasha, will soon open a new vacation rental to accommodate the area’s growing tourism, but an unexpected act of sabotage threatens to spoil all that Tasha has worked for.
Raelynn immediately gets to work sleuthing out who could be behind the crime. Could it be the bitter neighbor, intent on spoiling Tasha’s plans? Perhaps it’s a nearby resort owner, worried about the potential loss of revenue. Maybe it’s the former owner’s daughter who was left out of the will and believes the home should be hers. Or maybe it’s the squatter who had taken up residence in the home before renovations. Raelynn is determined to solve the mystery for her friend in time for opening day.

Genre: Mystery/Christian Fiction
Release date: February, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Who could want to sabotage a vacation house....

It's more outrageous madness and mayhem in Mabank, Texas! Yes, I just finished the second Little Red Truck Mystery and boy, was it a doozy! Janice Thompson once again brought her madcap characters to life in a story that made laugh even as I tried to puzzle out who-done-it.

Sabotage At Cedar Creek was a very enjoyable read and featured everything that I cozy mystery should have. I had an even harder time putting this one down than I did the first book, Tracking Tilly. There were so many delightful mystery threads to guess at and a few surprising angles to consider.

One thing that really stood out to me in Sabotage At Cedar Creek is the need to not judge people solely on first appearances. Janice Thompson really brings home through an entertaining story that each of us has our own history filled with choices, mistakes, circumstances, and sometimes people are so much more than they seem.

Oh, and a friendly piece of advice...make sure you have a snack while reading this book because all of that delightful sounding food from Blue Bell ice cream to peach pie to gumbo will make you HUNGRY...

I got a kick out of this book and now I am very much anticipating the third Little Red Truck Mystery where I know I will find more mystery, fun, and Texas....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Sabotage At Cedar Creek by Janice Thompson a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Janice

Travel with me to East Texas to celebrate the 4th of July. Let’s meet at Cedar Creek Lake, a vast expanse of water tucked in and around some of the sweetest little Texas towns you’ve ever seen: Gun Barrel City, Mabank, Payne Springs, Eustace, and Seven Points, just to name a few.

Along the edge of the lake you’ll find 320 miles of idyllic shoreline, dotted with homes, campsites, and cabins for rent. And right there, on the prettiest patch of land imaginable, you’ll discover a newly renovated vacation home, recently purchased by a local gal named Tasha. Her quaint fixer-upper is just about ready for its first guests and she’s giddy with excitement.
Also thrilled is Tasha’s BFF, RaeLyn Hadley! RaeLyn has grown up near the lake and loves this place. She can hardly wait to see her bestie’s dream come true.

Of course, not everyone in the Cedar Creek area is happy to see Tasha’s new vacation rental open for business. Behind the scenes, evil lurks. Nefarious plans are already in motion, though RaeLyn and Tasha can’t yet see them.

Days before the house is listed, the beautiful home is vandalized! Clearly, someone wants to stop Tasha in her tracks. But, who would sabotage the inn. . .and why? RaeLyn won’t quit until she’s got answers, but she needs your help.

What role will you play in this tale? Visit the inn. Get to know the gals. Help them figure out the whodunit. Spend time in town with the locals, celebrating the 4th of July. I promise, you’ll have a blast. There are quilt shows, cupcake walks, and more Texas BBQ than you can eat in one visit.

Your belly will never be empty as you set out to help RaeLyn and Tasha solve this crime. Just don’t let all of those handsome Texas fellas distract you from the task at hand. They have a tendency to do that.

Hang on for the ride, folks, because an East Texas tale is one that’s always filled with twists and turns! So, what are you waiting for? Jump into that little red truck and let’s hit the road, headed to Cedar Creek Lake!

Janice Thompson

Janice Thompson hails from south Texas. She is a Christian author and mother of four grown daughters. Janice has written over forty books.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54164

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 27
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 27
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 28
Texas Book-aholic, March 1
Locks, Hooks and Books, March 2
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 3
Pause for Tales, March 3
She Lives To Read, March 4
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 5
Blogging With Carol, March 6
Labor Not in Vain, March 6
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 7
Stories By Gina, March 8 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, March 8
For Him and My Family, March 9
Lily’s Corner, March 10
Holly’s Book Corner, March 11
Lights in a Dark World, March 12
Leslie’s Library Escape, March 12

7 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - When The Avalanche Roared by Lauralee Bliss (Give.away)

2/6/2025

6 Comments

The Day Hope Seemed Swept Away
Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives.
Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.

Lillian Hartwick has been in the small railroad town of Wellington, Washington, caring for her cousin and assisting the postmaster when February snows bring all train traffic to a halt. Slow-witted but kind Griffin Jones, who works odd jobs for the railway while enduring taunts from other workers, has tried his best to gain Lillian’s interest, but she is engaged and waiting her fiancé’s arrival from California. Predawn thunderstorms on Tuesday, March 1, 1910, trigger a devasting avalanche, sweeping two trains down Stevens Pass. Lillian and Griffin work together to help survivors, including Griffin’s tormentors. In the midst of the catastrophe their feelings for each other grow. But is it enough when Lillian’s fiancé finally arrives in the spring, ready to claim her as his own?

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction
Release date: January, 2025

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

A single instant. Nothing will ever be the same....

The Day To Remember series has been a fascinating one. Each story featuring a different disaster that changed the lives of the survivors and the landscapes around them. Some of them changing history as well. I'm honestly a bit surprised that I had never heard of the Wellington Avalanche before this book, especially considering my love of history and relatively close proximity to its location. Part way through reading When The Avalanche Roared I looked it up online and found a photo of the disaster and I must say that it is impossible to even begin to comprehend the power of nature and the horror of what the people went through.

I must admit that the story started out slow for me. And, as important as the disaster itself was, it was the aftermath that really spoke. The grief, questioning, and anger of the characters as they grapple with how God could have allowed such tragedy is where When The Avalanche Roared truly shines. Lauralee Bliss' heart wrenching portrayal of a town pulling together through unimaginable loss and horror, coming to terms with what they've been through, and slowly forging a new life is one that won't be quickly forgotten. It was that part of the story that I read straight through unable to put the book down.

As with the rest of the A Day To Remember series, this book was emotionally moving. Lauralee Bliss' contribution to the series is not to be missed especially if you enjoy fiction based on true and dramatic events.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives When The Avalanche Roared by Lauralee Bliss a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Lauralee

Pure Joy
Lauralee Bliss, Author of “When the Avalanche Roared”

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds… James 1:2 NIV

How does one equate a scripture like this with the death and destruction inherent in natural disasters? It seems an oxymoron to expect joy when faced with twisted metal and broken lives, such as in the deadliest avalanche in American history depicted in When the Avalanche Roared. Even now I think of the natural disaster of the hurricane that just recently destroyed mountain communities in western North Carolina, with homes and lives swept away in an avalanche of water and mud. So it was back in March, 1910 when a mile wide bank of snow detached from Windy Top in the northern Cascades of Washington State, slamming into three parked trains near Wellington, sending cars and sleeping passengers tumbling into the ravine. Over ninety lives were lost.

This could be considered a trial of supreme magnitude. Yet scripture commands we consider joy in the midst of it. The word joy evokes smiles and laughter, peace and satisfaction. It brings to mind Jesus resting in the boat in the midst of a raging storm, tossed about on high waves while the disciples huddle together in abject fear. After He calms the seas He asks them, “Where is your faith?” It demands the human mind look away from apparent destruction to something higher. To look beyond what one sees to the unseen. To trust God even when nothing appears trustworthy.

When the Avalanche Roared delves into the flames that spark, not from smoldering locomotives in a ravine, but within a small rail town that banded together in the wee hours of a frigid morning to rescue others. The destruction is evident. But the grit and determination of those who dug out people from heavy snow solidified by rain and cared for the suffering while their town remained isolated from the world speaks of a picture far greater than the picture of destruction. So it is today with communities swallowed by mud and trees and splintered fragments of homes as reminders of a destructive hurricane. Beyond the visual are the outpouring of help and compassion and holding the hands of those weakened by disaster in gestures of hope and resolve. And in this, a new birth of joy is realized.

God created us to find joy in struggle, to develop perseverance to achieve a goal despite what is thrown our way, to realize that when we do, we truly lack nothing. And therein we find lasting peace even in the midst of catastrophe.

Strangers unite to help the hurting.

A friend flew from Florida to North Carolina and arranged with this store owner for a free truckload of water for communities devastated by the hurricane.

Lauralee Bliss

Lauralee Bliss has always liked to dream big dreams. Part of that dream was writing, and after several years of hard work, her dream of publishing was realized in 1997 with the publication of her first romance novel, Mountaintop, through Barbour Publishing. Since then, she’s had twenty books published, both historical and contemporary. Lauralee is also an avid hiker, completing the entire length of the Appalachian Trail both north and south. Lauralee makes her home in Virginia in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with her family.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Lauralee is giving away the grand prize of
a $25 Amazon eGift Card and a print copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54145

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 30
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 30
Stories By Gina, January 31 (Author Interview)
Pens Pages & Pulses, January 31
Texas Book-aholic, February 1
Blossoms and Blessings, February 2
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 2
Simple Harvest Reads, February 3 (Guest Review from Marilyn)
Life on Chickadee Lane, February 4
Connie’s history classroom, February 4
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 5
Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 6
Betti Mace, February 7
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 8
Cover Lover Book Review, February 9
Holly’s Book Corner, February 9
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 10
For Him and My Family, February 11
Pause for Tales, February 12
Leslie’s Library Escape, February 12

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