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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - When Legends Rise by Daphne Self (Give.away)

2/29/2024

He is now one of them. Genetically altered . . . Designed to kill . . . Trained to eradicate . . . Until he became more. Juliet 7-A was the top elite assassin for the Global Federated Territories until an ambush deemed him beyond salvaging. He was scheduled for decommission. His only recourse for survival is a new identity and his search for the one friend he had―a friend who defected and deserted him. Those he once hunted will save him. Yet it comes with a price. A price that demands much of him. What happens when an assassin awakens?

Genre: Science Fiction
Release Date: July 26, 2022

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

What will he sacrifice for redemption...?

Sci-fi has never been my genre of choice but in recent years I have read a little bit from authors such as Davis Bunn under the name of Thomas Locke. I've found some good reads that way so it was an easy thing to pick up When Legends Rise and dive in.

Slightly reminiscent in style to Ronie Kendig in her Droseran Saga, this start to the Legends Of Light series from Daphne Self had all of the danger, drama, a touch of romance, and tech – plus vivid landscapes – that one could hope for in a sci-fi story.

Overall When Legends Rise was an enjoyable read and I found the tech and the space versus planetary settings to be quite fascinating. I did have some trouble at times with in-chapter scene breaks not always being readily apparent but each time I was able to go back a line or two and get it figured out.

On the gritty side, though clean of language and other on-page negative content, this first Legends Of Light story gets the series off to a good start. After finishing and then reading the tidbit for the next book I am interested in seeing where Daphne Self will take this exciting tale...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives When Legends Rise by Daphne Self a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Daphne

It started as an idea back in the late 90s. It came to fruition in May 2021. The inspiration was this: salvation is free. That began the questions of: what if someone committed horrible acts, what if that person was indoctrinated and changed, what if when faced with the truth how would he react, and finally, what story from the Bible would work for my character? Of course, the story of Saul of Tarsus (Paul) came to mind. Blood was on his hands, yet he found salvation in Christ. And the story of Samson gave a bit of a parallel to my story, too.

I wrote this book before the show Halo was released, yet I had been playing the Halo video game for years. I’ve always enjoyed the backstory of Master Chief, so the main character of When Legends Rise is a bit like Master Chief John-117. Plus, if you have seen The Mandalorian, then you will see a few common themes between my book and that show. There’s also a bit of a Star Trek vibe in that I use “tech” speak and plausible science.

And what began as one book has now evolved into a 5-book series titled Legends of Light. Book two, What Legends Become, releases in June 2024 and follows the family and the continuing story of salvation, persecution, faith, and hope.

Daphne Self

Daphne Self, formerly published under the name D.M. Webb, resides in Iowa. As a Mississippian transplant, she spends her days in the Midwest state writing, editing, reading, antiquing, and planning adventures. She pursues her dream as an editor and author with one goal in mind: To Glorify His Name. Daphne is also an avid reader who devours book in many genres. As a long time member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and Realm Makers, she volunteers her time helping published and unpublished authors.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/29dbb/when-legends-rise-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 17
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 18
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 19
Artistic Nobody, February 20 (Author Interview)
Madi’s Musings, February 20
Texas Book-aholic, February 21
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 22
Wishful Endings, February 23
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 24
Exploring the Written Word, February 25
Blogging With Carol, February 26
Pause for Tales, February 27
Guild Master, February 28 (Author Interview)
The Lofty Pages, February 28
Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 29
Fiction Book Lover, March 1 (Author Interview)

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Torch by Sofia Simpson (Give.away) pt 1

2/16/2024

5 Comments

Relentlessly pursued by the Extremists, Vela and Linc embark on a perilous journey toward a hidden Elemental community in the Canadian mountains. It’s a place where couples of different elements thrive, raising families while living off the grid.

These Elementals, like the Extremists, are searching for the portended Chosen Child, the one who will unite the clans. Vela is forced to accept she might be a part of this prophecy whether she likes it or not.

Vela is more than intrigued by a mixed Elemental in the community who single-mindedly pursues her. Faced with a choice between two very different men makes committing to Linc as her Intended harder than she imagined.

Can Linc win the fight for her heart? Will this prophecy be her undoing or the Elementals’ salvation?

Genre: Young Adult Christian Fantasy
Release Date: February 6, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Will making it to safety just mean more danger?

I got hooked on the Elemental Series while reading the first book, Terra, a few months ago. There was something about Sofia Simpson's blend of the familiar with the fantastical that captured my imagination. And, I'll be the first to admit that I can really get into a good YA fantasy novel like Torch and its predecessor.

Torch is the second Elemental Series novel and it turned out to be every bit as good as the first one – and even ends on a cliffhanger, too, just like that one did. Not every succeeding novel in a series can pull off the same strength and quality as the previous one or ones but Sofia Simpson seemed to do just that with this one. Not only is the Elemental aspect continued but it is carefully built upon and expanded.

I found the story to be full of adventure, clean romance, and some pretty good messages about boundaries, respect, honesty, and simply growing up. Torch also affirms family and faith in a realistic fantasy setting.

As I'm sure you can tell, I did enjoy the book and after that ending I'm a little desperate to find out where Sofia Simpson will be taking her characters next and what will befall them along the way...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Torch by Sofia Simpson a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Sofia

This book has been my absolute favorite to write. I switched my POV to first person, and it made all the difference in the world as far as getting into my character’s head. I’ve been so intimidated in writing in first person POV, so I’m so happy I went out on a limb and tried it. The story flowed so easily once I did! I wrote the first draft of this book in 10 weeks! I got on an intense writing schedule, stuck to it and voila! Out popped this book.

I loved every minute of it, especially the researching part. Researching how to live off the grid was fascinating to me, and it couldn’t have been more interesting. It really made me understand how people lived without modern conveniences. Well, in my book, they lived with modern conveniences thanks to generators and the Elementals’ gifts and abilities, but they had to make their own soap, butter, cheese, sometimes, clothes. I learned how a toilet can work thanks to gravity and setting up the pump on a hill. It’s all fascinating to me and I hope everyone finds it fun to learn, too, all while a great story unfolds!

The following recipe was so neat, I had to include it! And, yes, it’s in the book. They had to cook bread without an oven, so this worked nicely so they could still enjoy some fresh cooked bread.

This recipe was copied from the following link from Veganonboard.com:
Campfire Bread on a Stick Recipe – Vegan on Board

Ingredients
1 tsp dried yeast
1 tsp sugar
2 ½ cups (300 g) flour
⅞ cup (200 ml) warm water
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
1 tsp salt

Dough:
In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients into a moist dough. No need to knead!
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled in
size – about 1 hour.
With floured hands, briefly ‘knock back’ the dough by making it into a ball.
Tip the dough out onto a floured surface and divide into 8 pieces.

Shaping your breadsticks:
Start by stretching the dough into a strip and then roll it into a long sausage shape.
Twist a strip around the end of your sticks.
Pinch the dough together to secure the end if necessary.

Cooking Over a Campfire:
Either hold or prop up your stick over the fire.
Choose a spot over hot embers for best results.
Keep rotating until all sides are browned.
Enjoy your freshly baked bread!

Sofia Simpson

Sofia grew up moving constantly. Never in one place more than three years, there was plenty of time to daydream during long car rides. College finally gave her a chance to study what she had always dreamed of doing, writing her stories.
She obtained a B.A. in Journalism, married her handsome husband and had two amazing sons.
A big believer in dreaming big, Sofia loves speaking to youth, encouraging them to find hope no matter what their life looks like. Sofia is a daughter of the Lord first and foremost and finds inspiration with the stories like King David and Esther.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Sofia is giving away the grand prize package of
a $50 Amazon gift card and 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/29dba/torch-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Artistic Nobody, February 15 (Author Interview)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 16
Guild Master, February 17 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 17
Texas Book-aholic, February 18
Fiction Book Lover, February 19 (Author Interview)
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 20
Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 21 (Author Interview)
Pause for Tales, February 22
Simple Harvest Reads, February 23 (Author Interview)
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 24
A Reader’s Brain, February 25 (Author Interview)
The Lofty Pages, February 25
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 26
Through the Fire Blogs, February 27 (Author Interview)
Blogging with Carol, February 28

5 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Water's Break by Sophia Hansen (Give.away)

2/8/2024

0 Comments

What if fear itself is the deadliest undercurrent of all?

Nica would do anything to avoid the hassles of her sister’s bonding ceremony—the wrap fittings, hairstyles, and braided fire coral—but she never imagined that the waters covering her planet would be broken. As the heavens rained fire and stone, mountains erupted from the sea and dry ground was birthed on the Deep, dividing the water—and the Olomi people—for the first time in their history.
In the wake of her world’s violent re-formation, Nica’s family is shattered. When the rookie Guardian leaves the safety of the Deep to find her sister, she is abducted by strange landwalkers who possess strength and technology beyond her imagination. Nica realizes that the disaster from above was by their design—a calculated plan to terraform the water planet and conquer her people. All Nica wants to do is find her sister and swim home to safety, but with the landwalkers closing in, escape may not be possible. And if Nica can’t save herself, how can she hope to save her sister—or her people?

Genre: YA sci-fi
Release Date: January 9, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

What things are worth every sacrifice...

I'm not really sure what I was expecting when I started Water's Break but it turned out to be quite a different story altogether. The book starts off with a kaboom as the underwater people, the Olomi, face the near destruction of their underwater home and the loss of many of their people. I'll admit that after that, and the next important incident, I found it more difficult to get into the story. That is until much later into Sophia L. Hansen's novel than it should have ever taken me, I finally realized what the story was really talking about...

There was so much more than I could have imagined. It wasn't just a quest to find a lost sister, though that was important. No, it was a story of a girl taking the last step into adulthood as she goes through unimaginable circumstances and pain to discover that there are things more powerful than fear; such as freedom, love, sacrifice, and hope. That those things are always worth fighting for even to the bitter end. And that home, family, and community are worth any and every price. One thing to note is that the tale was definitely on the grittier side so it would be better for mid to older teens.

After that little belated epiphany the story had me quite intrigued and turning those pages. Water's Break really did surprise by the time I reached the end. I really didn't expect to spend so much time thinking about this book even after I finished it but Sophia L. Hansen had me hooked with her vivid world-building and those important elements that I mentioned before. Quite a different and interesting story....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Water's Break by Sophia L. Hansen a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Sophia

Once upon a time, there was a mom.
A mom with many children.
She was a very busy mom.
One day the pastor’s wife asked her to write something for the Christmas program.
“Why would you ask me?” she replied. “I’m just a mom.”
“Because you love words,” was the quiet answer.
When the mom heard this, she realized it was true. And so, she began to write.
The Beginning
~

Stories don’t grow in a vacuum. Neither do they flourish in a pressure cooker. Our ideas are like seeds; full of potential but needing time and space to germinate. My season of writing started after more than a decade of birthing, raising, and educating my children. We had five at the time and I was full up. There was little space in church activities for attached moms whose children didn’t nursery well, and I spent more of my Sunday mornings in the playground rather than the pews. Then, finally, a friend invited me to a study in her home, and all children were welcome.

As my soul feasted on the fellowship, Bible study, and sharing, I felt like a child sitting down to a holiday meal. I’d been so busy taking care of others that I didn’t remember what it was like to have an oxygen mask for myself. It had been far too long since my spiritual self had been nourished. Out of that beautiful season the seeds of my words, long dormant, began to sprout, including my what ifs about what would become the world of Water’s Break.

Water’s Break dives into Nica’s world, a water-covered planet inhabited by amphibian people. When disaster strikes, landmasses rise from the seabed, separating the water and its people for the first time in their history. Nica’s family is devastated: her father is gravely injured, her sister is missing, and her mother, grief-stricken. Nica, a rookie Guardian, is determined to find her sister and bring her home, even if it means she must venture out of the Deep. But no one knows what lies in wait abovewater.

I hope your hearts are encouraged as you join Nica’s fight to survive in a sea of oppression. And when survival is not enough, will she risk everything to choose life?

Sophia L. Hansen

Sophia L. Hansen, raised in the melded cultures of Korea and America, understands not fitting into society’s boxes. Born on a tiny island in Alaska, then growing up in New York City and Boston, she now resides in the Southeast, writing and editing between fresh(ish) cups of coffee and slices of crisp bacon. She embraces life with her husband, their adulting children, and her new grandson, but her favorites are Jesus, family, coffee, and dark chocolate, mostly in that order.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Sophia is giving away the grand prize package of
a signed hardcover with swag (bookmark, stickers, character cards)!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/29b05/water-s-break-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 30
Exploring the Written Word, January 31
Blogging With Carol, February 1
Artistic Nobody, February 2 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 3
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 4
Guild Master, February 5 (Author Interview)
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, February 5
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 6
Beauty in the Binding, February 7 (Author Interview)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 8
Wishful Endings, February 9
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 10
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 11 (Author Interview)
The Lofty Pages, February 11
Simple Harvest Reads, February 12 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - When The Waters Came by Candice Sue Patterson (Give.away)

1/29/2024

8 Comments

An act of greed or an act of God?

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

Pastor Montgomery Childs has tended his flock in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, for two years. While his pews are full every Sunday, he most desires to see a reckoning between God and the kings of industry who recreate on Lake Conemaugh. The pleasure grounds, flowing alcohol, and business dealings of the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club taunts Monty as he works to heal the wounds inflicted from his own privileged childhood among Pittsburgh society. Like Noah, Monty prays against the evil surrounding him, but he never expects God to send a flood.

It takes five days for the Red Cross to respond to the Johnstown flood disaster, but when it does, Annamae Worthington is ready to help. Apprenticing under Clara Barton has prepared her for the job, but nothing can prepare her for the death and destruction that awaits. As if the survivors haven’t suffered enough, typhoid fever ravages the town, resurfacing suppressed emotions regarding her father’s death.

Narrowly surviving the flood and the horrifying things he’s witnessed, Monty’s faith is floundering. Then a Red Cross nurse puts him to work helping with the typhoid fever victims arriving at the hospital tents every hour. Monty and Annamae work together distributing disinfectants and supplies, housing orphans, and serving those left behind. Slowly, his faith resurfaces. A kinship forms between them neither can ignore. But when an investigation into the collapsed dam points to the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club, secrets emerge that may tear them apart.

Genre: Christian/Historical/Romance
Release Date: January, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Heartbreaking and inspiring...

The Johnstown Flood is not a new historical event for me. Not only did I read about it in a children's biography of Clara Barton but I also did some encyclopedia reading on it after reading Catherine Marshall's book Julie which she closely based on the events surrounding the infamous Pennsylvania flood. When The Waters Came, however, is all about the devastating flood and its heartrending aftermath. And, I think, that Candice Sue Patterson did it justice without being horrifically graphic.

But, what really caught my attention about this first book in the A Day To Remember series was how she portrayed the hero of the story as he grapples with the shock and horror of everything he has seen and he feels like he has nothing left to give his congregation as his own faith has been battered almost into oblivion. I found this to be one of the most realistic reactions that I've read in a novel like this. The heroine's reaction to specific revelations in the story was also quite understandable as is her struggle with willingness to start the process of forgiveness.

I was quite impressed with When The Waters Came. I learned quite a bit about the flood itself, I really appreciated Candice Sue Patterson's Author Note at the end of the book with its further details, it's immediate aftermath, and the resiliency of the townspeople of Johnstown. I found the story to be gritty but inspiring and I am greatly looking forward to wherever the author of the second A Day To Remember novel will take us...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives When The Waters Came by Candice Sue Patterson a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

More from Candace

On May 30, 1889, the industrious residents of Johnstown, Pennsylvania fell into slumber to the sound of rain pattering their rooftops, unaware that, for many, it would be their last night on earth. This was the thought I carried with me through the entire journey of writing When the Waters Came. Every survivor’s account of that day, every loss, every miracle, every emotion will stick with me for years to come.

My first knowledge of the Johnstown Flood came several years ago when I watched The Men Who Built America in its first airing on the History Channel. The idea that so great a loss of life could’ve easily been prevented by some of the richest men in the world strummed an invisible chord inside me. I remember looking at my husband and saying, “I’m going to write a book about it someday.”

A few more years went by and each time I sat down to plot a new story idea, Johnstown whispered across my heart, but the timing wasn’t right. Then, in 2021, I was shopping at our local community book fair and stumbled upon a first edition of History of the Johnstown Flood, Illustrated by Willis Fletcher Johnson, published in 1889, months after the disaster. Not meaning to sound hokey, I felt as if God handed me the book Himself and confirmed He wanted me to write this story. The next year, at the same book fair, I found a first edition of The Life of Clara Barton by Percy H. Epler, published in 1919. It contained transcripts of her journals and correspondence, some specifically mentioning the Red Cross and her role in aiding the survivors of the Johnstown flood. Once again, I felt that God had provided all the material I would need to tell my tale. Then, in 2022, when my publisher reached out looking for proposals for a new series centered on disasters, I knew the time had come to remind folks of that tragic day.

I’ll be honest, I shed a lot of tears during my research. The accounts are heartbreaking. But the faith and determination in some of those accounts are inspiring as well. Many of the characters in When the Waters Came are real survivors of the flood, and Clara Barton, herself, walks on and off the pages throughout the story.

In May 2023, a month before I turned the manuscript in to my publisher, my husband and I traveled nine hours to Johnstown to experience what we could for ourselves and to make sure my historical facts were correct. I stood where the South Fork Dam once did. I imagined the roar of the water as the dam crumbled. I toured the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club clubhouse, where America’s elite once recreated. I stood at Colonel Unger’s homestead where he’d stood that fateful day, powerless to reinforce the dam and save the folks in Johnstown below. I walked the rows of 777 graves in Grandview Cemetery honoring the unidentified bodies that were rescued. I thought of all the lost loved ones never found.
Where the retelling of the Johnstown Flood is hard and tragic, I also packed the story with plenty of faith, hope, and love to give readers a well-balanced experience. For on-site videos, behind-the-writing-scenes info, and more details about the Johnstown Flood, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Facebook and Instagram.

Candice Sue Patterson

Candice Sue Patterson studied at The Institute of Children’s Literature and is an elementary librarian. She lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons in a restored farmhouse overtaken by books. When she’s not tending to her chickens, snuggling with her Great Pyrenees, or helping children discover books they love, she’s working on a new story. Candice writes Modern Vintage Romance–where the past and present collide with faith. For more on Candice and her books, visit www.candicesuepatterson.com.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/299c0/when-the-waters-came-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 27
Devoted To Hope, January 27
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 28
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 29
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 30
Mary Hake, January 30
Texas Book-aholic, January 31
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 1
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 2
She Lives To Read, February 3
Blossoms and Blessings, February 3
Simple Harvest Reads, February 4 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
Cover Lover Book Review, February 5
Book Looks by Lisa, February 5
Life on Chickadee Lane, February 6
Pause for Tales, February 6
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 7
For Him and My Family, February 8
Connie’s History Classroom, February 9
To Everything There Is A Season , February 9

8 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Aivan: The One Truth by Kayla E. Green (Giveaway) (pt 1)

1/17/2024

2 Comments

Two young people from opposite sides of the Great Continent must make sense of their life.

Rune has grown up all of her life in the mountainous northern nation of Kansanai. As granddaughter of the Senior Elder, she has been a devout believer of the Vihishki gods her whole life. Yet, when a prophet challenges the Vihishki gods against his Aivan, the One Truth, everything she thought she knew is turned upside down. Will she be able to let go of the life she thought she deserved for something far greater than what she could have ever imagined?

Rolf goes through the motions of everyday life in the southern nation of Etalentin. Yet, his routine is disrupted when a voice claiming to be the one true God speaks to him. Listening to his heart, he follows Aivan, but he is thrown temptation after temptation on his journey. Will Rolf be able to resist the temptations in order to fulfill Aivan’s plan for him?

Aivan: The One Truth is a story about self-discovery, identity, and faith.

Genre: Young Adult Christian Fantasy
Release Date: July 23, 2022

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Will they lose everything or find it....

I've been on a young adult / new adult fantasy kick in recent months so this little novella, Aivan: The One Truth, was right up my alley. Kayla E. Green's blend of fantasy and Biblical retelling turned out to be even more interesting than I had anticipated. In fact, I wasn't even really expecting to come across Elijah and the prophets of Baal on the mountain. But there they were against a backdrop of magic and quite the fantasy realm.

Aivan: The One Truth was a quick read and considering it is scarcely over 120 pages I found Kayla E. Green's fantasy realm to be surprisingly detailed, though there is still plenty of room for it to grow. The novella was an interesting series starter and with that ending I'm now curious to find out where things will go in the next book....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Aivan: The One Truth by Kayla E. Green a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Kayla

Working in education, it often is disheartening to see how much darkness bombards today’s youth. With Aivan: The One Truth, the forthcoming Chronicles of the One Truth series, and all my writing, my primary goal is to offer young readers a beacon of hope in this dark world. Alluding to many stories and lessons found in the Old Testament, Aivan is a fast-paced novella designed to capture young readers and pull them into the world of the Great Continent. It is my biggest prayer with this book that Rune and Rolf’s journey in this fantasy narrative will serve as a guiding light to lead readers of all ages to seek truth in our reality—the truth that can only be found through our one true God.

One of my current projects is developing a companion devotional for Aivan: The One Truth as well as the full-length novels that will be part of the complete Chronicles of the One Truth series (which will be released at a later date). The devotional would be a tool for parents, teachers, and pastors to use along with the book to help young readers understand the themes and biblical parallels.

Two major themes within the novella center around identity and purpose. Rune’s struggles with disappointment with shattered dreams and the heartache of feeling lost, alone, and unfulfilled are struggles that are arguably universal. In looking at Rune’s journey, young readers as well as adult readers can recognize the real-world challenges of identity: Who exactly are we? In today’s world, there is a constant battle between God and society. How can one embrace their identity as a child of God when the world demands us to rage and rebel against that title?

In Exodus 3:11 (NIV) Moses asks God, “Who am I?” after he is told to go to the Pharaoh to rescue the Israelites. God tells Moses, “I am with you,” (Exodus 3:12, NIV). Similar to Moses’ walk of faith, Rune, like us all, must learn to accept the truth. Like Aivan in the fantasy novella, our God, the one true God, is always with us. We may not immediately—or ever—understand His plan; however, through Him we are whole, redeemed, and loved. And in that, we have great purpose.

I pray that whoever reads Aivan: The One Truth finds parallels to our own world and finds solace knowing that we are because God is the great “I Am.”

In my upcoming companion devotional, I will explore the concepts of identity and purpose from a biblical perspective. Anyone who wants updates on this, should follow my blog and subscribe to my newsletter to be the first to know!

Kayla E. Green

Kayla E. Green is a school librarian, speculative fiction author, and poet who adores her husband and their furbabies. When she isn’t writing, reading, or taking photos for her bookstagram, she loves singing loudly and off-key to KLove Radio, napping, and pretending she’s a unicorn. Her award-winning YA fantasy novella, Aivan: The One Truth, and her inspirational poetry collection, Metamorphosis, are now available through book retailers. Kayla also has stories and poems featured in various anthologies, contest-winning stories published with Clean Fiction Magazine, and several flash fiction stories available online through Havok Publishing.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Kayla is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback of
Aivan: The One Truth, a paperback of Metamorphosis, an Aivan inspired booksleeve,
Rune and Rolf character art cards, and a $50 Barnes and Noble 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/2958a/aivan-the-one-truth-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Splashes of Joy, January 11 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, January 12
Blossoms and Blessings, January 13 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 13
Artistic Nobody, January 14 (Author Interview)
For the Love of Literature, January 15 (Author Interview)
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 16
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 17
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 18
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 19 (Author Interview)
Book Butterfly in Dreamland, January 19
Pause for Tales, January 20
By The Book, January 21 (Author Interview)
Blogging With Carol, January 22
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 23 (Author Interview)
A Reader’s Brain, January 24 (Author Interview)

2 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Juliet Code by Pepper Basham (Give.away)

1/7/2024

2 Comments

Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley Finally Reach Their Honeymoon
Destination Only to Encounter a New Mystery in Need of Solving.

Frederick and Grace Percy finally make it to Italy to enjoy a delayed honeymoon and explore the beauties of the historic city of Venice. To their surprise, their friend, Detective Jack Miracle, is also in the city, investigating a series of art heists starting at the house of eccentric millionaire, Laraby Covington. Drawn into a world of boat races, mysterious houses, and parties of the rich and unusual in Venice, Frederick and Grace learn of the existence of the Juliet paintings, (Renaissance paintings feature Shakespeare’s tragic heroine) rumored to hold a secret code to an underground vault of similarly treasured artwork assumed lost over the centuries. As Freddie and Grace are pulled deeper into the mystery and their beloved Detective Jack disappears, can they use their wits and work as a team to find the thieves and Jack before it’s too late.

The Juliet Code is a Freddie and Grace Mystery,
sequel to The Mistletoe Countess and The Cairo Curse.

Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical Fiction
Release Date: December, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Will they solve the mystery or die in the trying?

Well, I must admit that even though The Juliet Code had a bit of a slow start for me, boy, did it take off lickety-split when Grace and Frederick arrive at the house. The location of past murder, hidden identities, betrayal, and a possible lost treasure with its clues hidden in a series of paintings.

Once again author Pepper Basham blends humor with suspense, romance with danger, and historical fiction with mystery. She has done it with the previous Freddie & Grace Mysteries and she has proved her continued success with this 3rd book in the series.

I found the mystery to be quite interesting as I have long been a fan of the mystery from the past trope. It was fun trying to figure out who was really whom and exactly what they were up to. Some of my guesses were spot-on, some not so much.

The Juliet Code was an enjoyable read and a good addition to the Freddie & Grace Mystery series from Pepper Basham. After reading this 3rd book as well as book 2 I will be quite interested to see if the series is continued another book...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Juliet Code by Pepper Basham a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Pepper

The Ever After

I’ve always loved fairytales.

Especially the romanticized version (#romancewriter).

The wonderful sense of a two people meeting, overcoming obstacles to be together, and then the happily-ever-after?

Well, those are some of my favorite reasons to read and write fiction. However, I didn’t realize the challenge I took on when I agreed to write a second and third book with the main characters staying the same!

You know what I mean?

In most series, the main characters from book one become secondary characters in the consecutive books so that the secondary characters in book one can become the main characters in book 2 (everybody still following along? )

One of my favorite book series that do this so well is the Amelia Peabody series. I fell in LOVE with Amelia and Emerson in book one, but just loved watching their continued dynamic as a couple grow with each new book. I felt as if I got to know them so much better in their “ever after” while they engaged in all sorts of adventures together.

So…that’s what I hoped to accomplish with Freddie and Grace.

Where The Mistletoe Countess ends with a happily-ever-after, The Cairo Curse and The Juliet Code take over to show us more of the…ever after – my attempt at showing how two main characters continue to grow beyond the end of book one.
I didn’t realize what a daunting feat it would be. Watching two characters meet, fall in love, and show some growth in book 1 was what I was used to doing. But how was I supposed to continue that character growth in consecutive books?
Well, I had to grow myself as a writer to understand how small changes can make lasting differences especially when writing about a beloved couple.

I think The Juliet Code shows a little of that growth – of our Freddie and Grace have not only matured spiritually and, in Grace’s case, experientially, but also as a couple.

Do you have a series that you love where the main characters stay the same?

Pepper Basham

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

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away the grand prize package 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!

https://promosimple.com/ps/293d6/the-juliet-code-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

The Sacred Line, December 28
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 28
Bigreadersite, December 28
Texas Book-aholic, December 29
Devoted To Hope, December 29
Mary Hake, December 29
She Lives To Read, December 30
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 30
Book Butterfly in Dreamland, December 30
Locks, Hooks and Books, December 31
Blogging with Carol, December 31
For Him and My Family, December 31
Where Faith and Books Meet, January 1
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 1
Back Porch Reads, January 1
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 2
Life on Chickadee Lane, January 2
Connie’s History Classroom, January 2
Book Looks by Lisa, January 3
Aryn the Libraryan, January 3
Girls in White Dresses, January 3
Daysong Reflections, January 4
Holly’s Book Corner, January 4
Splashes of Joy, January 4
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, January 5 (Author Interview)
Wishful Endings, January 5
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 5
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, January 6
Blossoms and Blessings, January 6
Pause for Tales, January 6
Tell Tale Book reviews, January 7
Cover Lover Book Review, January 7
Live. Love. Read., January 7
Labor Not in Vain, January 8
Mornings at Character Cafe, January 8
Worthy2Read, January 8
All-of-a-kind Mom, January 9
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 9
The Lit Lady, January 9
Lily’s Corner, January 10
By The Book, January 10
To Everything There Is A Season, January 10

2 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - The Marine's Deadly Reunion by Loretta Eidson (Give.away)

12/18/2023

12 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Marine's Deadly Reunion by Loretta Eidson,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

To keep a child safe
They must outrun a killer…

When Sergeant Daria Gordon saves US Marine Jake Fisher and his baby niece from an attacker, she instantly puts a target on her own back. Someone murdered Jake’s sister and now they want Jake and Daria dead. To survive, Jake and Daria must discover this ruthless killer’s identity. But can they uncover the truth and keep the baby safe…before the killer finds them?

Publisher: Inspirational The Protectors Collection
(Love Inspired)
Release Date: December 26, 2023
Genre: Christian romantic suspense

My Review

There seems to be no one left they can trust...

Well, that was one exciting read with more twists and turns than even I, longtime fan of Love Inspired (particularly Suspense), could have anticipated. Author Loretta Eidson never gave her characters in The Marine's Deadly Reunion or its readers a even single moment to breathe.

As I said, this Love Inspired novel had so many twists and turns and red herrings that by the end I had absolutely no clue who had actually done it for sure. In the meantime, I did have some fun trying to puzzle it out with Daria and Jake – and there was a lot to puzzle out.

This is the third Loretta Eidson book that I've read and I think that The Marine's Deadly Reunion was the most edge-of-your-seat yet. I am now curious to find out how she will top it with, what I hope, will be the next story...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Marine's Deadly Reunion by Loretta Eidson a Bark rating.

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

Loretta Eidson

Award-winning author Loretta Eidson lives by the motto ‘never a dull moment,’ especially with her four children, thirteen grandchildren, and four great-grands. Her love of reading began during the required library time in middle school, where she devoured Phyllis Whitney’s mystery novels before she moved on to suspense author Frank Peretti. She left her eighteen-year administrative assistant position at her church to pursue the dream of writing inspirational romantic suspense. She has multiple short stories in anthologies, but her heart is writing romantic suspense. She believes in the power of prayer and loves putting her hero and heroine in realistic predicaments where they must trust God to pull them through.

Connect with Loretta by visiting lorettaeidson.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will win a $50 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 18, 2023 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on December 25, 2023. 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!

12 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Rocky Mountain Promise by Misty M. Beller (Give.away)

12/9/2023

4 Comments

Lorelei Collins possesses a soft heart for any animal in need, so when she finds a buffalo calf bawling beside its mother’s lifeless body, she can’t help but bring it home to raise on the ranch she and her sisters are building in the Rocky Mountain wilderness. Little does she realize that its white coloring is rare and considered sacred by Native Americans, which makes it highly valuable to them and the European trappers alike.

A flood of men visit their ranch to regard the marvel, some trying to woo Lorelei into marriage so she’ll bring the buffalo calf along as dowry, and others trying to steal the calf outright. When the men’s advances become more sinister, she approaches Tanner Mason, the quiet and mysterious owner of the new trading post, with an idea: She and the calf will move to his post, along with her family’s trusted Blackfoot friend. This will solve both their problems, bringing customers to his trade room and protecting her family from the trouble brought on by so many strangers. Yet as the danger travels with her, Lorelei and Tanner are faced with a threat greater than anything they’re prepared for–one that will test the limits of both their abilities and the love growing between them.

USA Today bestselling author Misty M. Beller delivers an exhilarating addition to the Sisters of the Rockies series fraught with peril, adventure, and romance amid the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

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

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

How could one baby buffalo cause so much trouble?

The intrepid Collins sisters are back in this second Sisters Of The Rockies. This time it's tenderhearted Lorelai who has readers quickly turning those pages to find out what happens next. And trust me, there is A LOT of what happens next! Misty M. Beller takes her heroine and hero on one adventurous ride of danger and romance in Rocky Mountain Promise.

Over the last few years I've come to enjoy Misty M. Beller's brand of historical romance. They always feature a small cast of characters that are easy to keep track of who's who, plenty of danger from multiple sources, a dramatic landscape, and sometimes a little mystery such as in this series. The Sisters Of The Rockies has all of that and I've particularly liked the sisters dynamic that really keeps the fellas in their lives on their toes.

Rocky Mountain Promise proved to be another enjoyable read and I finished more quickly than I had anticipated. The biggest problem is that, as with every other series that I like, now I have to wait for the next book to come out. There were some little hints and beginnings in Rocky Mountain Promise that I am anxious to hopefully see them play out in the next Sisters Of The Rockies book from Misty M. Beller. And, so I wait...

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

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

More from Misty

My latest release, Rocky Mountain Promise, follows the four Collins sisters who traveled west to accomplish their father’s deathbed request, and stayed on to run a ranch in the Wyoming Rockies. This particular book is Lorelei’s story, the third sister by age.

I loved writing Lorelei! She LOVES animals and has a heart to heal and nurture. Growing up on a ranch in the early 1800s, she understands that animals are important to survival, but she loves taking in any injured or orphaned creature she finds.
Like the orphaned buffalo calf with beautiful shades of white fur she discovered on the plains. The creature was only a couple weeks old, far too young to survive on its own in the wild, so she took it home to nurture until it could be released back into a herd.

Little did she know, white buffalos are extremely rare and considered sacred by the Indians, which puts them in high demand. I first learned about this belief when I was reading the non-fiction book My Life as an Indian, a memoir of James Willard Schultz, a white man who married into the Blackfoot tribe and lived among them for many years.

The respect for the white buffalo originally began with the Sioux, and they have a legend about the White Buffalo Woman that I won’t take time to share here (though you can read about it in Rocky Mountain Promise!). The deep respect for a white buffalo spread quickly among all the tribes and the trappers who lived in the Rockies and the surrounding plains, and such a creature (or even its hide) became one of the most sought after treasures in that day!

In Lorelei’s story, trapper and Indian alike show up in their cabin yard to see the remarkable white calf, some trying to woo her into marriage so she’ll bring the buffalo calf along as dowry. Others try to steal the calf outright. She ends up taking drastic measures to protect both the calf and her family. Any guess what she did?

I pray you love Rocky Mountain Promise as much as I do!

Blessings!
Misty

Misty M. Beller

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

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2909a/rocky-mountain-promise-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 29
Life on Chickadee Lane, November 30
Pens Pages & Pulses, November 30
Betti Mace, December 1
Wishful Endings, December 1
Lighthouse Academy Blog, December 2 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 2
Texas Book-aholic, December 3
Splashes of Joy, December 3
Locks, Hooks and Books, December 4
For Such A Time As This – Miriam Jacob, December 4
lakesidelivingsite, December 5
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 5
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 6
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 6
Life, Love, Writing, December 7
Avid Reader Nurse, December 7
Cover Lover Book Review, December 8
Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 9
For Him and My Family, December 9
Jeanette’s Thoughts, December 10
Exploring the Written Word, December 10
Holly’s Book Corner, December 11
Blossoms and Blessings, December 11
Lily’s Corner, December 12
Pause for Tales, December 12

4 Comments

E-Book Review - When Hattie Finds Love by Amy Lillard

12/2/2023

0 Comments

Genre:
Amish Romance

In this uplifting inspirational romance series, award-winning author Amy Lillard unites a “Widows Club” of women who share solace, friendship, faith—and mouthwatering Whoopie Pies—in the Amish community of Paradise Valley, Missouri. Will appeal to fans of Charlotte Hubbard, Molly Jebber, Susan Lantz Simpson, and Kelly Long.

Hattie Schrock’s lively optimism makes her the Widows Club’s most outgoing member. The circle has helped her through widowhood—and in building a thriving popcorn shop with her cousin. So when Elsie bets Hattie that she can’t help Paradise Valley’s most cantankerous man learn to be happier, Hattie tackles the challenge head-on. But what can she do when she finds Christian Beachy is far more complicated—and appealing—than she thought?

Christian lives his faith through hard work, supporting his overbearing sister, and growing the Valley’s best vegetables. After all, a good Amish man should be dedicated to duty. Yet suddenly, Hattie’s warm-hearted attentions and knack for unexpected adventures is showing him life can be so much more—especially if Hattie can share it with him. But when he discovers her wager, can she and the Widows Club ever convince him that her growing love is the real thing—and that risking together forever will be the sweetest, most fulfilling chance of all?

ISBN-13: 9781420155273

My Review

Will they see the second chance in front of them?

You know, sometimes you just need to sit down, take a little time out, and let yourself drift away reading a sweet romance. The Paradise Valley series from Amy Lillard is always good for that in my opinion. The characters are likable but flawed, they have realistic problems that they work through, and in the the 'boy' finally gets the 'girl'. I, of course, use those terms loosely because...

One of the things that I love best about Amy Lillard's Paradise Valley series with its band of 'Whoopie Pie' Widows is the variety in ages of the heroes and heroines – from early 20s to grandmothers. When Hattie Finds Love is the perfect example of this as both Hattie and Christian have grown children and a small flock of grandchildren. I really like how each generation has problems that are different and that are the same. The humorous moments such as Christian and Hattie with the bicycle are perfect alongside the more poignant ones.

A friendly warning while reading When Hattie Finds Love, don't read it hungry because if the whoopie pies don't get your stomach growling Hattie and her cousin's popcorn certainly will.

If you love sweet Amish romances that are not just cookie cutter of every other one that you've read, I'd definitely recommend When Hattie Finds Love and the rest of the charming Paradise Valley series from Amy Lillard. They are all easy reads and will make you smile...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives When Hattie Finds Love 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

E-Book Review - Shadows At Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard

11/10/2023

0 Comments

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Montana Detective Trevor West is desperate to learn what happened to his sister, who went missing in Alaska over a year ago, leaving nothing but a few photographs as clues to her whereabouts. At the advice of Police Chief Autumn Long, Trevor enlists the help of an experienced bush pilot. If Carrie James can't help him find the places in the photographs, no one can.

But Carrie has her own agenda. Grieving the death of her closest friend and the only person she could trust, Carrie will help Trevor find his sister on one condition--that he help her track down her friend's killer.

As the two close in on the answers they crave, they'll face dangers and connections they could not have imagined. They'll have to learn to trust one another--and face the dark secrets of the past--if they are ever to discover the truth and bring a killer to justice.

ISBN-13: 9781493443505

My Review

Just whose past is coming back to haunt them?

If there's one thing that Elizabeth Goddard knows how to do well it is twists and turns – and that fact is never more in evidence than with her Missing In Alaska series and Shadows At Dusk in particular. What could a missing woman in Alaska and an attempted murder in Africa have to do with each other? Well you are in for one wild ride to find out!

Trust me, I was not kidding when I said Shadows At Dusk is a wild ride. Elizabeth Goddard really packed it in with secrets, betrayal, sabotage, murder, sacrifice, kidnapping, crashes, explosions, gunfire, time deep underground, not to mention the rest of the wild Alaskan landscape – oh, and those trademark romantic sparks. If you thought the first Missing In Alaska book was exciting, this second one more than keeps up with it.

Shadows At Dusk kept me on the edge of my seat and I enjoyed every minute spent within its pages. The Missing In Alaska series has been quite an adventure so far and I can't wait to see where Elizabeth Goddard will take her characters next...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Shadows At Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard a 4 Bark rating.

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

0 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Marshaling Her Heart by Mary Connealy (Giveaway)

11/8/2023

3 Comments

Will their lives and romance survive the trouble coming their way?

Becky Pruitt has always prided herself on knowing everything that’s happening on her successful ranch, so an unexpected admission from her foreman, Nate Paxton, comes as quite a surprise. With the notorious Deadeye Gang on the loose, Nate–a former U.S. Marshal–believes Becky’s ranch is the best spot for a group of Marshals to use as a base to hunt them down.
The timing couldn’t be more crucial for the town of Pine Valley, and Becky feels obligated to help. But after escaping the grasp of her harsh father, she’s never liked giving up control, of her life or her ranch. If there’s anyone she can trust with her ranch, and her heart, it might be Nate. But the outlaws won’t go away quietly, and as danger draws ever nearer, Becky and Nate are faced with impossible choices that will test their growing bond.

Genre: Historical Romance
Release Date: October 17, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Danger surrounds them on all sides...

I knew the final Wyoming Sunrise novel would be both exciting and full of shocking revelations about the Deadeye Gang. And I was right, I really was. Mary Connealy just delivered that and a whole lot more in Marshaling Her Heart.

I have been both dreading and anticipating Marshaling Her Heart. Dreading because it means saying goodbye to the Wyoming Sunrise characters. Anticipating because I knew that Mary Connealy would give Becky and Nate a humdinger of a tale and that the Deadeye Gang would finally get theirs.

Marshaling Her Heart kept me turning those pages with Mary Connealy's trademark blend of humor, romance, and wild west danger. I loved the addition of the young couple with new marriage issues getting some help and advice from the the 'older' married couples. I remember feeling a little annoyed when they got married so getting to see them have an adjustment and growing up period added some nice realism to the story.

As I said, I'm sorry to be saying goodbye to the Wyoming Sunrise ladies with their unusual and fascinating career choices. I do know that the end of one series leaves the possibility of a new one and making some new book friends, so....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Marshaling Her Heart by Mary Connealy a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Mary

Becky Pruitt has a problem. Her ranch is being invaded by good guys.

Becky wants the Deadeye Gang caught and thrown in jail as much as anyone, but the lawmen asking her to hire them on at her ranch aim to do their investigating while working undercover as cowhands. She runs a good ranch, however, and doesn’t like the idea of a bunch of low-skilled men making her look like she’s hired them foolishly.

Yet she goes along with it, suspicious and annoyed, because her foreman, Nate Paxton, a man she trusts, convinces her that these men are honorable. Then the three lawmen she hires, all of them U.S. Marshals, urge her to send every single one of her regular cowhands—except Nate, a former Marshal himself—off on a cattle drive.

Now she’s got Marshals cropping up everywhere. Her ranch isn’t being run in a way that suits her. She’s got trouble with her father, and an important speaker is coming to town to talk about women’s suffrage. So much is distracting her when all she really wants to do is make sure her herd is being tended properly.

Before long, Nate starts to question the behavior of the U.S. Marshals Service. They’re secretive to the point that they put him in jeopardy a few times before he decides to quit. Here he’d found a decent job on a top ranch, and he even shared a few special moments with his pretty, feisty boss that gave him ideas of how he’d like to change things around a little just so he could be with her. And then his brother, who’s still a U.S. Marshal, invades the ranch with a few fellow lawmen. Quite a few.

Meanwhile, the Deadeye Gang is more dangerous than ever. The woman coming to Pine Valley to speak is now at risk, which makes Becky frantic to protect her. The cattle aren’t being looked after like they ought to be. And yet Nate finds himself being drawn closer to Becky with each passing day. He’s determined to stand firmly between her and danger, but he’s got to keep up with her to do that. He soon discovers that nothing is easy when it comes to the hard-charging Becky Pruitt.

Wyoming Sunrise is a series I wrote in which I cast women as having nontraditional jobs: Forged in Love has a woman blacksmith, Laws of Attraction a woman justice of the peace, and Marshaling Her Heart a woman rancher. Those are all nontraditional for sure, but not really in my case personally. I must force myself not to make all my heroines feisty lady ranchers. It’s almost a reflex at this point. I fought that reflex as hard as I could, but I decided it would be okay to sneak one lady rancher into this series, and that’s Becky Pruitt. I slipped her into the western vernacular, the tough attitude, the riding skirts and boots and Stetsons—and I loved it.

Marshaling Her Heart is my first true lady rancher, and so I let loose and had fun with Becky. The foreman Nate recognizes intelligence and competence in his boss, and he’s smart enough to take orders from her because he knows those orders are the right way to run the ranch.

Add in the backdrops of the other books in the series, the vicious, stagecoach-robbing Deadeye Gang, the coming of the lady suffragist speaker to town, and you’ve got a story full of trouble, action, adventure, romance, and fun.

Mary Connealy

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

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Mary is giving away the grand prize of
a $15 Amazon Gift Card and a paperback copy of the entire Wyoming Sunrise series!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/28976/marshaling-her-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, October 27
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 27
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 28
Bizwings Book Blog, October 28
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 29
Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 29
Books You Can Feel Good About, October 30
Lighthouse Academy Blog, October 30 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
lakesidelivingsite, October 31
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 1
Book Looks by Lisa, November 1
Connie’s History Classroom, November 2
Mary Hake, November 2
Wishful Endings, November 3
An Author’s Take, November 3
Betti Mace, November 4
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 4
For Him and My Family, November 5
Holly’s Book Corner, November 5
Splashes of Joy, November 6
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 6
Pause for Tales, November 7
Life on Chickadee Lane, November 7
Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 8
Cover Lover Book Review, November 8
Labor Not in Vain, November 9
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, November 9

3 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - New Leash On Life by Kathleen Y'Barbo (Giveaway)

11/5/2023

3 Comments

How Is a Missing Military Working Dog Related to Two Local Fires?

Snuggle with your trusty hound and settle into a small-town
mystery in book 6 of the Gone to the Dogs series.

Air Force veteran Dr. Lane Bishop and Nora Hernandez’s romance has cooled. He is busy working as a researcher at the vet school, and she’s busy with her restaurant and opening an antique shop. What Lane hasn’t told her is his PTSD, which manifests mostly with nightmares, makes him believe he’s damaged goods. But that is about to change when he meets a stray pup that acts a lot like a military working dog.
When a tornado hits Brenham, there is damage in the downtown area and a fire is ignited in Nora’s new store. A Belgian Malinois dog is seen at the fire and later Lane sees him at a wedding venue where an explosion occurs. Not long after, a second explosion rocks Brenham and sends Nora and Lane on a hunt for the person responsible. Will the pair find the guilty party before more damage is done to the city’s landmarks? And will Lane find the words to tell Nora how much he loves her before it’s too late?

Genre: Christian Fiction / Cozy Mystery
Release Date: October, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Fires and explosions and tornadoes, oh my...

Brenham, Texas has gone to the dogs again and mystery is afoot – or should that be 'a-paw' – as not only does a tornado roar through town but there are explosions and a fire of suspicious origin. Add onto that a romance on the rocks and you have another fun Gone To The Dogs Mystery from Kathleen Y'Barbo.

I rather surprise myself by saying so, but I think that New Leash On Life may be my favorite book of the series. It had everything my cozy mystery enjoying heart could wish for including a pretty cool dog and even a surprise feline.

I really liked the mystery in New Leash On Life. There were multiple elements and more than one suspect to keep you guessing and trying to puzzle out things out alongside Nora, Lane, and the rest of the pet-loving crew. While I did figure out some of the who-done-it, Kathleen Y'Barbo did slip in a surprise or two for me in this sixth Gone To The Dogs Mysteries.

Honestly, if you haven't visited Brenham, Texas yet, New Leash On Life is only one of the books in a fun cozy mystery series. There are more Gone To The Dogs Mysteries to dive into from Kathleen Y'Barbo and the second author in the series Janice Thompson. Two very talented authors of a delightful series off pet-filled and paw approved cozies with a little dash of romance...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives New Leash On Life by Kathleen Y'Barbo a 4 Bark rating.

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

More for Kathleen

You’ve most likely seen military working dogs (MWDs) on television shows or in the news. Maybe you’ve seen police dogs in action or read about them. They’re often fierce looking and always well-trained and intelligent. Along with their handler, the MWD is a brave and not so secret weapon in the military and law enforcement world. And did you know that an MWD always outranks his or her handler? It’s true.

I was very aware of all of this, but I had no idea what happened to these dogs when they were too old or perhaps physically unable to continue in their roles. People retire from their careers, so it makes sense that MWDs would as well.
I first learned about retired MWDs from watching my friend Ronie welcome a gorgeous Belgian Malinois, Vvolt, to her family. Anyone who knew the family or came to know Vvolt through social media fell in love with that dog. With his ears cocked just so and his bigger-than-life personality, I knew I had to write about him someday.

When I was given the opportunity to co-write a cozy mystery series with my dear friend, Janice Thompson, I knew one of those books would have to include an MWD. Because MWDs are used in so many situations, from military police work to bomb sniffing to PTSD care and more—I had to narrow down the choice of what my dog would be doing. I won’t give anything away, but I can tell you that Pal, the fictional Belgian Malinois in NEW LEASH ON LIFE is very good at what he does. He also loves a good Whataburger when his regular kibble isn’t available, but I digress.

When I set out to create the personality for Pal, I looked to what I knew and loved about Vvolt. Big personality, toothy grin, and the ability to run and jump like a champ were all included in my dog’s version of the MWD. And like Vvolt, my MWD develops a strong bond with his handler and the family who welcomes him into their home. Pal is loyal, friendly, and apt to stand between his people and danger at the slightest provocation.

Pal’s person in NEW LEASH ON LIFE is Dr. Lane Bishop, a Texas A&M University research veterinarian and Air Force veteran. Lane deals with nightmares that came out of his military experiences. As you can imagine, this causes an issue or two with Nora Hernandez, the woman Lane adores but has not shared his worries with.

Then along comes Pal, a stray (or is he?) with a habit of disappearing and then turning up at the most unlikely places just when he’s needed. I won’t give away the story, but let’s just say that sometimes it takes an animal to show the humans what needs to be done.

Perhaps all this talk about MWDs has you curious about them. Maybe you’re someone who would love to explore the opportunity to give a retired MWD a second chance. Check the Airforce 37th Training wing’s website for details on how this can be done: https://www.37trw.af.mil/Units/37th-Training-Group/341st-Training-Squadron/Military-Working-Dog-Adoption-Program/ .

NEW LEASH ON LIFE is the story of new starts and second chances, of how God can doesn’t just use humans to achieve His purposes. For this and so many other reasons, the tale of Lane and Nora and Pal is dedicated to the memory of Vvolt and his people.

Well done good and faithful servant.

Kathleen Y’Barbo

Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee and bestselling author of more than one hundred books with over two million copies of her books in print in the US and abroad. A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she is a member of the Texas Bar Association Paralegal Division, Texas A&M Association of Former Students and the Texas A&M Women Former Students (Aggie Women), Texas Historical Society, Novelists Inc., and American Christian Fiction Writers. She would also be a member of the Daughters of the American Republic, Daughters of the Republic of Texas and a few others if she would just remember to fill out the paperwork that Great Aunt Mary Beth has sent her more than once. When she’s not spinning modern day tales about her wacky Southern

relatives, Kathleen inserts an ancestor or two into her historical and mystery novels as well. Recent book releases
include bestselling The Pirate Bride set in 1700s New Orleans and Galveston, its sequel The Alamo Bride set in 1836
Texas, which feature a few well-placed folks from history and a family tale of adventure on the high seas and on the
coast of Texas. She also writes (mostly) relative-free cozy mystery novels for Guideposts Books.
Kathleen and her hero in combat boots husband have their own surprise love story that unfolded on social media a few
years back. They make their home just north of Houston, Texas and are the parents and in-laws of a blended family of
Texans, Okies, and one very adorable Londoner.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/28973/new-leash-on-life-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 26
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 26
Wishful Endings, October 27
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 27
Texas Book-aholic, October 28
Karen Baney Reviews, October 28
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 29
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 30
Boodock Ramblings, October 30
Lighthouse-Academy, October 31
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 31
Blogging With Carol, November 1
For Him and My Family, November 1
Holly’s Book Corner, November 2
Mary Hake, November 2
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 3
Splashes of Joy, November 4
Pause for Tales, November 4
Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 5
Bigreadersite, November 6
Cover Lover Book Review, November 6
Labor Not in Vain, November 7
Life on Chickadee Lane, November 7
Lily’s Book Reviews, November 8

3 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Deadly Yellowstone Secrets by Kari Trumbo (Giveaway)

11/2/2023

8 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Deadly Yellowstone Secrets by Kari Trumbo,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Yellowstone National Park hides a secret
and uncovering it could be fatal.

Someone’s hunting bears in Yellowstone National Park—and now Tamala Roth’s the next mark. With a killer at her heels, Tamala must trust Ranger Clint Jackson to safeguard her while searching for the poacher. But when a blizzard traps them in with a criminal who will stop at nothing to silence them, survival becomes a dangerous game.

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

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

My Review

If a killer doesn't get them the weather will...

Anyone who lives near a national park or protected area knows that the wilderness can be a deadly place – but Deadly Yellowstone Secrets puts that danger on steroids – in all of the best Love Inspired Suspense ways, of course.

I'm actually not completely new to Kari Trumbo's books as I've read and listened to some of her historical fiction, so, when I saw her name on a romantic suspense novel I knew I had to read it. And Deadly Yellowstone Secrets did not disappoint in either the suspense category or in the romantic sparks.

Kari Trumbo certainly keeps her readers on the edge of their seats as well as guessing in this exciting Love Inspired Suspense novel. It's a quick read that is perfect for curling up with a cup of something hot and a warm blanket as you get a little shiver from the icy cold Yellowstone wind...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Deadly Yellowstone Secrets by Kari Trumbo a 4 Bark rating.

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

Kari Trumbo

Kari Trumbo is an international bestselling author of historical and contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She makes her home in Minnesota - where lakes and frigid temps are plentiful - with her family and husband of over twenty years. Reading, listening to contemporary Christian music, singing when no one's listening, and curling up near the wood stove when winter hits are her favorite things. She loves chatting on social media, so be sure to look her up.
Connect with Kari by visiting karitrumbo.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will win a signed print copy of
Deadly Yellowstone Secrets and a $25 visa gift card!
(1) winner will win a signed print copy of Deadly Yellowstone Secrets
and a signed print copy of Operation: Restoration!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 1, 2023 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on November 8, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and
given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

8 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Mountain Storm Survival by Cathy McDavid (Giveaway)

10/31/2023

6 Comments

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Mountain Storm Survival by Cathy McDavid,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

A brutal storm. Relentless pursuers.
And more than their lives are on the line…

Helping with youth wrangler camp is how Kate Spencer is atoning for her past. But now she and ranch manager Rand Walkins are trapped in the Superstition Mountains with two girls as illegal miners hunt them down. Rand has every reason not to trust Kate, much less forgive her. But working together is the only way they’ll escape from the danger that threatens them all…

New York Times Bestselling Author

Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: October 24, 2023
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

My Review

Will an unforgiving landscape spark forgiveness...

As a kid I read lots of treasure stories and articles, so, of course, many of them were about the Lost Dutchman Mine, Weaver's Needle, and the Superstitions. So, to pick up a Love Inspired book featuring just that particular area – with lots of suspense and romantic sparks – was a lot of fun.

I was intrigued by Mountain Storm Survival right from the start. One of the things that I found to be unexpected and different with this story was that as present as the mystery angle was, Cathy McDavid kept her focus more on the characters themselves – their motivations and their journeys to find both forgiveness and physical safety. Honestly, I liked it even better that way.

That being said, Mountain Storm Survival was still an entertaining read and Cathy McDavid kept me on the edge of my seat wondering if the characters could take any more from man and elements alike – not to mention whether there was even one single person that they could trust.

This book was a good quick read and I doubt it will be the last Love Inspired novel that I get my hands on from this author...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Mountain Storm Survival by Cathy McDavid a 4 Bark rating.

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

CATHY MCDAVID

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author CATHY MCDAVID wrote her first book at sixteen. The self-illustrated children’s story featured a young girl whose lack of responsibility nearly resulted in the demise of her pet fish. It’s quite possible the book was an autobiography, but Cathy’s not telling. She wrote her second book, and first romance, at nineteen with the help of a portable Smith Corona typewriter. One never knows how the unrequited crush on a college professor will affect their eventual career. These days, with over 57 titles and 1.6 million books in print, she still incorporates a little of her own life in each story.

A lover of all things western and former avid horsewoman, her stories include riding, ranching, and rodeo because,
well, who doesn’t enjoy a good cowboy romance? Mother of grown twins and married to her own real-life sweetheart,
Cathy is living her dream penning heart-stopping suspense thrillers and heart-touching family dramas for Harlequin.
Connect with Cathy by visiting cathymcdavid.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(2) winners will win a print copy of both Blizzard Refuge and
Her Surprise Cowboy Groom, a $5 Starbucks gift card and a cowboy coffee mug!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 31, 2023 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on November 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 to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

6 Comments

E-Book Review - Into The Fire by Irene Hannon

10/26/2023

0 Comments

As a former smokejumper, arson investigator Bri Tucker knows her way around fires. But after a mysterious blaze takes the life of a former colleague, Bri inherits a curious puzzle from him that raises questions about several fiery deaths. Someone, however, doesn't want her picking up where he left off in search of answers.

When she teams up with ATF Special Agent Marc Davis to solve the puzzle, the danger escalates. But will they manage to track down the person behind the mysterious deaths before their budding romance--and maybe even their lives--go up in flames?

The bestselling and award-winning queen of romantic suspense is back with a brand-new series that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping as you burn through the pages to discover the truth.

ISBN-213: 9780800741884

My Review

They'll have to pass through fire for answers...

I haven't read as many of Irene Hannon's books as I would like to but I always try to keep up with her new romantic suspense releases. They always entertain and keep me guessing and I enjoy them. Into The Fire is the first book in her Undaunted Courage series, and it has started of this series right. There are new characters to meet and make friends with and new villains to try and figure out...

I will admit that I did figure out the villain's identity somewhat early on in Into The Fire but Irene Hannon had me second guessing myself a few times until most of the way through the book when the revelation rather surprised me. It was an 'ah-hah' moment and then I was beyond curious to find out the why behind the fiery murders.

I actually finished Into The Fire much sooner than I expected as I found myself digging it back out every spare moment – and even some I didn't have to spare. I just had to know where this first Undaunted Courage novel was going, whether I was right or wrong about certain characters (I was both), and, of course, why the killer chose fire...

Irene Hannon has a good – and very exciting – start to this new series and I will most certainly be anxiously awaiting the release of the next Undaunted Courage book...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Into The Fire by Irene Hannon a 4 Bark rating.

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

0 Comments