Category: Link

Genre:
Christian Music

One On One
by Gary LeVox

ONE ON ONE releases May 21st from Big Machine Records
and features artists including MercyMe, BRELAND, and more!

When asked about the role God has played in his musical journey, LeVox said, “I feel like God graced us with a platform where we can not only touch people’s lives through music, but by being men of God offstage too,” explained LeVox. “At those times when we are with fans that are going through something like cancer, it is so wonderful to not only sing for them but to hold their hand and pray with them. I want them to know that they have a friend in me. I’m not just some guy on the stage. I feel like Christ has put me in this position because He knew I could handle the obligation, which often means taking the time to lift someone up in prayer.”

Tracks

1. "A Little Love” (featuring MercyMe)
2. “Never Forget” (featuring Jonathan McReynolds)
3. “While I Wait” (featuring Brittany LeVox)

4. “All I See” (featuring BRELAND)
5. “The Distance”

$1 of every purchase goes to fight human trafficking through the Tim Tebow Foundation

Stream ONE ON ONE now and get a copy of this awesome EP at
https://garylevox.lnk.to/OneOnOneMI!

My Review

Encouragement through music...

I had initially intended on writing this review one way, had even started working on it in my head. But then, as so often happens, life threw a monkeywrench into the works.

I had enjoyed the One On One EP and listened to it several times. The music, the lyrics, and Gary Levox's voice, were just so to listen to, and I particularly enjoyed the appearance of an old favorite of mine, Mercy Me. However, it was some of the themes that were explored in these five songs that unexpectedly resonated with me. I say 'unexpected' because of that monkeywrench I mentioned. The themes of God's grace and forgiveness are important to any Christian but what I needed to hear this week was the reminder of God's faithfulness and His presence when things are not going well.

It may have seemed to be a random thing when I chose to listen to One On One from Gary Levox, a new-to-me artist, but it really wasn't. Hearing that particular message literally right before a time of uncertainty was most certainly not a coincidence.

So, if you are in need of a little encouragement, may I suggest the One On One EP from Gary Levox. Not only is it easy to listen to and has memorable lyrics, but, it may come just when you most need to hear something in it....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives One On One from Gary Levox a 4.5 Bark rating.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Capitol Christian Music Group for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100%
my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

1 winner will receive a signed 8x10 Poster!

This giveaway is limited to US winners ONLY.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#GaryLeVoxMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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Kregel Blog Tour - Right Cross by Andrew Huff

5/21/2021

Genre:
Thriller / Suspense

Right Cross
A Shepherd Suspense Novel book 3
by Andrew Huff

-From Goodreads-

"First he left the CIA. Then he left pastoral ministry. Now John Cross has been imprisoned in one of Great Britain's most infamous prisons. Has he reached the end of his rope? Or is this another move in a dangerous spy game? Christine Lewis, United News Network's rising star television anchor, is determined to find out. But in her pursuit of answers, Christine finds herself at the center of a cyberterrorist plot to alter the balance of power in the world. From the English coastline to the Rocky Mountains, John must partner with the CIA and MI6 in a race against the clock to stop the threat of nuclear war and save the lives of everyone he holds dear. The concluding story in the Shepherd Suspense trilogy is a globe-trotting, action-packed adventure with threads of biblical truth woven in. Fans of high-octane thrillers will be on the edge of their seats with Right Cross"--

ISBN-13: 9780825446498

Can Christine & John manage to survive...?

Wow! What an explosive finish to an already exciting series! Take a shocking arrest, more than one daring escape, some international terrorists, a secret target, toss in a few blazing guns, and add a little romance, and you get the recipe for a wild ride of a Christian thriller!

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Andrew Huff

As soon as I finished the previous Shepherd Suspense Novel I was desperate to read this book. How could Andrew Huff leave me hanging like that?! It just wasn't fair! Fast forward to the present when I finally got my mitts on a copy of Right Cross. Finally, those pesky loose ends get some resolution, in between John Cross and Christine Lewis dodging even more bullets, of course.

Right Cross was a strong addition to the Shepherd Suspense series and every bit as good is its predecessors. I was impressed with Andrew Huff's ability to pen a second, and now third, novel in a series and maintain the levels of danger, action, and suspense.

Whether you are a guy or a girl, if you like thrillers that entertain but don't compromise your faith, you've seriously got to try Andrew Huff's Shepherd Suspense series. Right Cross and the other two books, read them in order for the best experience, will keep you on the edge of your seat and flipping those pages as fast as you can read them. What are you waiting for?

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Right Cross by Andrew Huff a 4 Bark rating.

0 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Aftermath by Terri Blackstock (Review, Giveaway)

5/13/2021

3 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Aftermath by Terri Blackstock,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

This gripping new thriller from New York
Times bestselling author Terri Blackstock
will leave you on the edge of your seat.

A devastating explosion.

Three best friends are at the venue just to hear their favorite band . . . but only one of them makes it out alive.

A trunk full of planted evidence.

When police stop Dustin with a warrant to search his trunk, he knows it’s just a mistake. He’s former military and owns a security firm. But he’s horrified when they find explosives, and he can’t fathom how they got there.

An attorney who will risk it all for a friend.

Criminal attorney Jamie Powell was Dustin’s best friend growing up. They haven’t spoken since he left for basic training, but she’s the first one he thinks of when he’s arrested. Jamie knows she’s putting her career on the line by defending an accused terrorist, but she’d never abandon him. Someone is framing Dustin to take the fall for shocking acts of violence . . . but why?

Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Release Date: May 11, 2021
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense/Thriller

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My Review

Can they survive the Aftermath...?

If there's one thing Terri Blackstock is good at it's romantic suspense with psychological drama. Aftermath is proof of exactly that. I've been a longtime fan of Terri Blackstock, probably close to 20 years now, so I know what chilling reading delights are ahead of me and I'm always excited when I see that she has a new release.

Aftermath was a little different than I expected, but still very good. The psychological drama is well developed as even likable characters emotionally spiral out of control while trying to make sense out of tragedy. Trauma, grief, betrayal, loss, it's all here...plus a bit of romance and a deadly crime to solve before the clock runs out and it happens again...

was a great read and it definitely lived up to my expectations. Terri Blackstock always seems to one-up herself a little bit with each new release and this book was no exception. That ability is what keeps me coming back and highly anticipating her work.

If you are looking for some edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense that at times reads like a high-stakes thriller you've really got to try Aftermath from award winning author Terri Blackstock. Don't miss it!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Aftermath by Terri Blackstock a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

Terri Blackstock

Terri Blackstock has sold over seven million books worldwide and is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She has had over twenty-five years of success as a novelist. She’s the author of If I Run, If I’m Found, and If I Live, as well as such series as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, Moonlighters, and the Restoration series. Visit her website at www.terriblackstock.com.

CONNECT WITH TERRI:
Website | Facebook

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(3) winners will receive a print copy of Aftermath by Terri Blackstock!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 11, 2021 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on May 18, 2021. 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 the policies found here.

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

3 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - Danger On The Loch by Paige Edwards (Review, Giveaway)

5/10/2021

12 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Danger on the Loch by Paige Edwards,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Raised by a cold and distant mother, photographer Paisley Clark has spent her life daydreaming about the father she doesn’t remember. Paisley’s dream turns to reality when a DNA test brings her in contact with the mysterious man. With her financial situation a disaster and her childhood friend James Pressley-Coombes working across the pond in Scotland, Paisley is emboldened to accept her father’s invitation to visit him.

She arrives in the Highlands only to discover that she isn’t Paisley Clark at all but a titled lady, the daughter of a Scottish duke. Despite the warm welcome and the comfort of James’s presence, dangerous undercurrents surround Castle Rannoch, her father’s estate. Overwhelmed, Paisley takes refuge in her camera and James’s steady presence to provide a sense of normalcy in her rags-to-riches transformation. But her once-easy relationship with James is changing, deepening beyond friendship in a surprising twist of events. Before they have time to examine their feelings, Paisley inadvertently captures a shocking image in one of her photographs—a picture worth killing for.

Publisher: Covenant Communications
Release Date: April 5, 2021
Genre: Clean, Romantic Suspense

PURCHASE LINKS*:
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookbub

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My Review

A trip to Scotland brings danger and romance...

With a title like Danger On The Loch I knew there would at least be a little mystery. But, I was in for a bit of a surprise. The tale did feel a little like a cozy mystery at times but it was also well mixed with romantic suspense and a touch of Gothic.

It's been awhile since I've 'had' an adventure in Scotland and I was in need of an escape so this book from new-to-me author Paige Edwards seemed like a good choice. And I did enjoy it. It may not be the most complicated of plots but it was fun to take it a little easier and still try my own Nancy Drew skills at figuring out the villain. Plus there were some surprises along the way that livened things up.

Danger On The Loch also had a great friends-to-lovers element that I really liked. I've never been a fan of love triangles, thankfully this book has none, but friends-to-lovers is one romance trope that I can almost always get behind. And these two, Paisley and James, are so sweet together, first as friends and even more as romance begins to blossom.

Danger On The Loch was a charming read and a great introduction to Paige Edwards' storytelling. I enjoyed the story and will have no problem reading more from her. There were a couple of references to a related book and now Paige Edwards has me curious...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Danger On The Loch by Paige Edwards a 4 Bark rating.

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

Paige Edwards

Born and raised in Southern California, Paige Edwards is an award-winning author who thinks the color turquoise is almost as great, but not quite, as See’s Candy. A BYU-I alumna, she went back to school and graduated summa cum laude from NOVA with a degree in interior design. Her husband’s job transferred their family to the mid-Atlantic states where they have lived ever since. When she needs a break from writing, you can find her shooing deer out of her garden, biking battlefields, or kayaking on the lake.

CONNECT WITH PAIGE:
Website | Facebook | Instagram

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Danger on the Loch by Paige Edwards and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 10, 2021 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on May 17, 2021. 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 the policies found here.

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

12 Comments

Book Review - The Lady In Residence by Allison Pittman

5/9/2021

Genre:
Historical / Contemporary

The Lady In Residence
Doors To The Past book 1
by Allison Pittman

-From Goodreads-

Can a Legacy of Sadness be Broken at the Menger Hotel?

Visit historic American landmarks through the Doors to the Past series. History and today collide in stories full of mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance.

Young widow Hedda Krause checks into the Menger Hotel in 1915 with a trunk full of dresses, a case full of jewels, and enough cash to pay for a two-month stay, which she hopes will be long enough to meet, charm, and attach herself to a new, rich husband. Her plans are derailed when a ghostly apparition lures her into a long, dark hallway, and Hedda returns to her room to find her precious jewelry has been stolen. She falls immediately under a cloud of suspicion with her haunting tale, but true ghost enthusiasts bring her expensive pieces of jewelry in an attempt to lure the ghost to appear again.

In 2017, Dini Blackstone is a fifth-generation magician, who performs at private parties, but she also gives ghost walk tours, narrating the more tragic historical events of San Antonio with familial affection. Above all, her favorite is the tale of Hedda Krause who, in Dini’s estimation, succeeded in perpetrating the world’s longest con, dying old and wealthy from her ghost story. But then Dini meets Quinn Carmichael, great-great-grandson of the detective who originally investigated Hedda’s case, who’s come to the Alamo City with a box full of clues that might lead to Hedda’s exoneration. Can Dini see another side of the story that is worthy of God’s grace?

ISBN-13 : 978-1643527482

The past and present merge and intertwine...

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Allison Pittman

https://promosimple.com/ps/10b6a/the-secret-of-the-14th-room-celebration-tour-giveaway

It's been a long time since I've read an Allison Pittman novel but when I saw that The Lady In Residence was a dual timeline story I just couldn't resist. Then, I discovered it was the first book in the multi-author Doors To The Past series from Barbour and I was even more excited!

I really enjoyed this book. It was different, it was fun, a little eerie at times, and it was intriguing. The dual timeline was well done, each layer tying in nicely with the other thread. One of the things I found quite interesting was the Allison Pittman's choice of making this novel a little on the bittersweet side. Not everything is tied up in a neat bow with a trip down the aisle. I can tell you that it successfully kept The Lady In Residence from being just another cookie-cutter historical romance novel.

The mystery in this book was great! It kept me puzzling things out and trying to guess where things would go next. Oh, and one of my absolute favorite things about this book was the modern girl's profession in magic. So different and so fun!

The Lady In Residence was a great start to the Doors To The Past series and I can't wait to read the next one! And I'll definitely be looking for other books from Allison Pittman as well...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Lady In Residence by Allison Pittman a 4 Bark rating.

0 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Secret Of The 14th Room by Rebecca Hemlock (Review, Guest Post, Giveaway)

5/1/2021

3 Comments

Memories can be a killer.

When Levi Corbin returns to Granton, Tennessee after the death of his beloved grandmother, it sets off a chain of events he’d rather have avoided. Claiming his inheritance should have been a piece of cake, but a cousin appears, threatening to steal it all.

Even worse (and better, too), he’s falling for the girl he just met and now must team up with her to try to stop his cousin. Their quest for his inheritance uncovers secrets frozen in time—and one might just be the answer to save his grandmother’s home.

Things go from worse to completely out of hand when a freak fire threatens it all. Add to that a nosy old woman and a battered runaway, and Levi can’t help but wonder what is going on!

As circumstances rekindle his faith and new love spurs him onward, Levi races against time and odds to save Grandma’s house from certain destruction, but the result might just mean saving himself as well.

Publisher: Bluecap Publishing
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Release date: March 16th

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Will The Secret Of The 14th Room be lost forever?

I was intrigued by the title right off the bat. The Secret Of The 14th Room, it sounds so mysterious doesn't it?

I'll be completely honest, I had mixed feelings while reading this book. There were times when the story really annoyed me but what kept me coming back is stated right in the title, The Secret Of The 14th Room. I really enjoyed the cozy mystery aspect. True, there were parts of the story that were not quite realistic and there were times that the moral lessons felt a little bit forced, but, oh the mystery! The way Rebecca Hemlock wove our nation's history into the Corbin family's secret was great and the whole family history element was pretty cool in my book! Another thing that was kind of fun was the surprise villain. You are so sure from the beginning you know who the bad guy is...or do you?

The characters have a lot to grapple with in this story. Loss, anger, betrayal, childhood bullying, greed, fear, but, most importantly, forgiveness. While I didn't always 100% agree with the author's take I liked the fact that she did explore those issues and that she accurately portrayed forgiveness as a choice, a journey, and sometimes a battle to move beyond your own hurt.

While this was not my favorite book I would definitely consider reading the next book to find out if one character's change is real and if it continues. If you enjoy simple, easy to read, Christian cozy mysteries The Secret Of The 14th Room from Rebecca Hemlock just might be up your alley...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Secret Of The 14th Room by Rebecca Hemlock a 3.5 Bark rating.

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

More from Rebecca

Looking for new ideas is my favorite part of writing because it comes with talking to interesting people and exploring antique shops all over the country.

This book not only captures my love for American history and riveting romantic suspense, but it also captures how old wounds of the heart can be healed.

Levi Corbin in The Secret of the 14th Room learns this the hard way after carrying his broken heart for most of his adult life. He has to discover the real meaning of family and family pride. Levi must face the past so that he can move on to a brighter future.

Granton, Tennessee, is a town I hope you fall in love with, just as I did when I created it. There are so many delightful characters, some with a dark secret or two. This story has been brewing for a while, and I am glad that I finally have the opportunity to share it with you.

Rebecca Hemlock

Rebecca lives in Eastern Kentucky with her husband and children. She absolutely loves mysteries. Rebecca has been writing stories for many years and enjoys reading, painting and spending time with her family. Her favorite times to write are early in the morning when the sun is coming up and at sunset. She has worked as a freelance journalist for 4 years and is a member of Sisters in Crime and American Christian Fiction Writers. Rebecca has earned a degree in English and an Appalachian Studies certificate in Creative Writing.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Rebecca 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!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 21
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 21
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 22
Genesis 5020, April 22
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 23
A Novel Pursuit, April 23
Texas Book-aholic, April 24
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 24 (Author Interview)
Inklings and notions, April 25
Blogging With Carol, April 25
Betti Mace, April 26
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 26
For Him and My Family, April 27
Godly Book Reviews, April 27
deb’s Book Review, April 28
CarpeDiem, April 28
Older & Smarter?, April 29
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 29
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 30
Simple Harvest Reads, April 30 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 1
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, May 1
KarenSueHadley, May 2
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, May 2
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 3
Mary Hake, May 3
Through the Fire Blogs, May 4
Adventures Of A Travelers Wife, May 4

3 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - The Watcher by Sara Davison (Review, Giveaway)

4/30/2021

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Watcher by Sara Davison,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Someone or something is watching Kathryn Ellison.

Kathryn thought she had buried memories of That Night for good—until Nick Lawson returns, reigniting her long-suppressed feelings for him. Seeing Nick has always reminded her too much of the horrible night that changed her life. As much as she wants to be with him, she wants even more to forget. When Nick unexpectedly shows up at her family ranch, Kathryn knows it is finally time to let go of the traumatic past that has held her captive for so long.

David Henley is a captive too—of the dark secret involving Kathryn, a secret he’s kept even from his wife. Now the truth is about to be revealed. And when it is, he could be stripped of everything in his life that matters to him.

A storm is brewing in the spiritual realm, and its effects reverberate through the natural world, summoning otherworldly Beings to the ranch. While Kathryn confronts the memories of That Night and struggles to let them go, she is not as alone in her home as she thinks.

As spiritual and temporal forces collide, Kathryn—and everyone she loves—is about to be caught in the crossfire.

PURCHASE LINKS*:
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

ALSO AVAILABLE

My Review

Will truth and forgiveness set them all free?

I have to admit that The Watcher is probably the most unique story labeled as romantic suspense that I've ever read. Now, personally, I would label Sara Davison's dramatic story of pain, loss, forgiveness, and redemption, as more in the speculative genre. The two, romantic suspense and speculative, though, are a pretty interesting mix in this book.

The Watcher is a fitting title as Kathryn Ellison's story is told from the perspective of a spiritual being, representing a specific human emotion, who has stood watch over her life for many years. This 'Watcher' has witnessed everything, from Kathryn's happy childhood, to That Night, and the years of struggle afterwards. But, as with any good romantic suspense novel, things are about to get scary for Kathryn.

I'll be honest, I had mixed feelings about Sara Davison's choice of narrators. Plus the whole spiritual beings element kind of gave the story almost a touch of allegory. But, it also gives readers a truly unique look into the characters thoughts and experiences. In addition it made me ponder my own thoughts and reactions in a new way.

As you can see I am still thinking about The Watcher even now a few days after finishing it. It was different, it was interesting, and you just might enjoy Sara Davison's book yourself if you like stepping outside of the norm once in awhile...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Watcher by Sara Davison a 4 Bark rating.

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

Sara Davison

Sara Davison is the author of three romantic suspense series—The Seven Trilogy, The Night Guardians, and The Rose Tattoo Trilogy. She has been a finalist for ten national writing awards, including Best New Canadian Christian author, a Carol, a Selah, and two Daphne du Maurier Awards for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She is a Word and Cascade Award winner. She currently resides in Ontario, Canada with her husband Michael and their three children. The words on the mug she uses every morning pretty much sum up her life—I just want to sleep, drink coffee, and make stuff up. Get to know Sara better at www.saradavison.org and @sarajdavison.

CONNECT WITH SARA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a print copy of The Watcher and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked
below. Giveaway began at midnight April 26, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on
May 3, 2021. 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. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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

0 Comments

Just Read Blog Tours - Begotten by Lisa T. Bergren (Review, Giveaway)

4/29/2021

10 Comments

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Begotten by Lisa T. Bergren,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Begotten is an edited, new edition of a novel
previously released in 2006, The Begotten.

At the height of the Inquisition, a secret half a millennium old is about to be exposed---a lost letter believed to have been written by Saint Paul but never part of the Christian canon. The letter speaks of men and women---the Gifted---with profound spiritual gifts that will strike fear in the heart of a Church dedicated to maintaining power. Now the letter has surfaced and the Gifted are gathering. But so are their enemies...

Publisher: BCG Press
Release Date: April 26, 2021
Genre: Christian, Supernatural Suspense

PURCHASE LINKS*:
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Book Depository | Christianbook

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My Review

Danger lurks on every side of this motley group...

Well.... That was definitely much different than I expected! But then, Lisa T. Bergren is pretty good at surprising people and she has a talent for crossing genres. Begotten was different from any other book that I've read by her but that only made it more interesting.

What really fascinated me about this story was Lisa T. Bergren's skillful, not to mention surprising, blend of historical romance, Catholic tradition, and what really threw me, spiritual warfare. Over the years I've read a number of novels featuring spiritual warfare, authors like Frank Peretti, Ted Dekker, Bill Myers, Angela Hunt, but pretty much all of them were 'contemporary' making Begotten the first with that particular topic as a central theme

Begotten was intriguing on all fronts, as a historical romance, as a spiritual warfare novel, and as a story of faith. It's also a good wake-up call reminding us that all times are uncertain and that we are all called to live lives of prayer and faith, that we all have gifts that are meant to be used in service to others and for God's glory. Not bad, author Lisa T. Bergren, not bad. This book sure gets a person thinking, contemplating, not to mention wondering The Gifted will be taken next in book two...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Begotten by Lisa T. Bergren a Bark rating.

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

Lisa T. Bergren

Lisa T. Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 60 books in a variety of genres, from children’s picture books to contemporary romance to supernatural suspense novels. She lives in Colorado Springs in a brand-new home she and her husband just finished building and intend to never leave, because she’s discovered she loathes moving. You can find out more about her at LisaTBergren.com

CONNECT WITH LISA:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a signed print copy of Begotten,
a custom Gifted candle, and a $50 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked
below. Giveaway began at midnight April 27, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on
May 4, 2021. 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 the policies found here.

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

10 Comments

Book Review - A New Love For Charlotte by Amy Lillard

4/25/2021

1 Comment

Genre:
Amish

A New Love For Charlotte
A Wells Landing Romance book 11
by Amy Lillard

-From Goodreads-

Renewed faith and happiness await three generations of women in this heartwarming
series from Amy Lillard, set in the Oklahoma
Amish community of Wells Landing . . .

With her daughter newly married, widow Charlotte Burkhart should have been content to find a companion for her later years in Amish widower Glenn Esh. Yet, Charlotte longs for more than life has offered her thus far. When she discovers a baby on her doorstep, the child seems like the miracle Charlotte’s been praying for. Unfortunately, Glenn doesn’t feel the same way. What’s a single woman aching to experience motherhood once more to do?

From the moment Paul Brenneman sees Charlotte Burkhart with a new baby, he senses his lovely neighbor and the sweet child are meant to be. Which is why he offers to marry Charlotte and make her adoption dreams come true. No stranger to heartache himself, the stalwart widower knows second chances don’t happen every day—especially not with a woman like Charlotte, the first woman in a long time who has him taking a leap of faith that happily-ever-after is still possible . . .

ISBN-13 : 978-1420149609

Is her plan also God's plan...?

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Amy Lillard

I've been curious about A New Love For Charlotte for some time now. To be perfectly honest, I didn't really care for her in either Jenna's or Nadine's stories. But, there was no way I would skip over an Amy Lillard novel just because a character wasn't exactly my favorite. Plus, this IS the Wells Landing series, of which I have been a fan since book one.

OK, I'll get it right out there. Charlotte is still not my favorite but I think I understand her a little bit better after reading her story. True, some of her actions really puzzled me in A New Love For Charlotte, but I am certainly a lot more sympathetic to her now. She's had such a tough row to hoe over the years and there's nothing like repeated loss to make a person grasp on too tight and try to control everything and everyone around you. Fear of more loss and being alone can get to even the best of us.

Amy Lillard's Wells Landing series is one of my favorite Amish series. Each is different and no two are identical. And I also know every time I start one that I'm in for a good story. If you enjoy Amish stories that aren't just cookie cutter repetitions of every other Amish novel out there you should check out this book in particular and the series in general...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives A New Love For Charlotte by Amy Lillard a 4 Bark rating.

1 Comment

Book Review - Unknown Threat by Lynn H. Blackburn

4/12/2021

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Unknown Threat
Defend And Protect book 1
by Lynn H. Blackburn

-From Goodreads-

US Secret Service Special Agent Luke Powell is lucky to be alive. Three of his fellow agents have died in unusual circumstances in the past ten weeks. Luke is devastated by the loss of his friends and colleagues, and his inability to locate the killer feels like a personal failure. He's an expert at shielding others, but now the protectors are in need of protection.

FBI Special Agent Faith Malone is driven to succeed and confident in her ability to solve every case she's assigned. She's been put in charge of the investigation into the unprecedented attacks, and with Luke's life in danger, the stakes have never been higher. But it's hard to know how to fight back when you don't know who the enemy is.

As more agents are targeted, Luke and Faith will have to work together to bring a killer to justice and prevent any more names from joining their fallen brothers and sisters on the Secret Service Wall of Honor.

ISBN-13: 9780800737955

Can they solve this case before it's too late?

Ever read a book where you have a dozen theories as to whodunit and why, and you are proven right in the end, but you're proven wrong? Unknown Threat was a spine-tingling page-turner of a novel that did just that. Seriously, I don't think I got a breath in edgewise, Lynn H. Blackburn had me riveted from the first page.

This Book received a 5 Bark rating.

Lynn H. Blackburn

Unknown Threat is the first book in Lynn H. Blackburn's brand new Defend And Protect series and if the succeeding books are as good as this one was I'll be in a seventh heaven of action-packed romantic suspense. Have I mentioned how much I enjoyed it? LOL!

I had the best time trying to figure things out alongside Faith and Luke and I think I can say that Unknown Threat is probably my favorite Lynn H. Blackburn book that I've read...so far, at least... I fully intend on reading every single Defend And Protect book as soon as I can...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Unknown Threat by Lynn H. Blackburn a 5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - The Bent Tree Bride by Denise Weimer

4/12/2021

Genre:
Historical

The Bent Tree Bride
by Denise Weimer

-From Goodreads-

Susanna Moore can’t get him out of her mind—the learned lieutenant who delivered the commission from Andrew Jackson making her father colonel of the Cherokee Regiment. But the next time she sees Lieutenant Sam Hicks, he’s leading a string of prisoners into a frontier fort, and he’s wearing the garb of a Cherokee scout rather than the suit of a white gentleman.

As both Susanna’s father and Sam’s commanding officer, Colonel Moore couldn’t have made his directive to stay away from his daughter clearer to Sam. He wants a better match for Susanna—like the stuffy doctor who escorted her to Creek Territory. Then a suspected spy forces Moore to rely on Sam for military intelligence and Susanna’s protection, making it impossible for either to guard their heart.

ASIN: B08Q8K5YD6

Can they find love against all the odds?

I have been eagerly anticipating The Bent Tree Bride since first hearing about it some time ago. I've enjoyed every Denise Weimer book that I've read and I knew this one would be no exception. And, trust me, it was definitely no exception.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Denise Weimer

I've always liked the historical realism in Denise Weimer's books. The sights, the sounds, the smells, all of it captured on the printed page. And I particularly enjoy the fact that she writes about lesser known places and events in American history.

The Bent Tree Bride was even more special to me as it shed fictional light on what my own Cherokee ancestors may have experienced. I love family history, always have, so this novel was right up my alley. Not that the author romanticized the culture, she accurately portrayed the negative actions and thoughts of all of the cultures involved, but it was interesting to gain a little insight into the role of the Cherokee in the War of 1812.

The Bent Tree Bride is a little gritty, any book about the frontier in that era will be, but it lent to the authenticity and emotional aspects of the story. Because, this is one book that will truly tug at your emotions as Sam and Susanna struggle with the prejudice, the expectations of family, and trying to find their own place in a world that isn't friendly or forgiving.

Denise Weimer has a real winner with this book. I sincerely enjoyed it and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to fans of realistic historical fiction – with a little romance. Don't miss it!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Bent Tree Bride by Denise Weimer a 4.5 Bark rating.

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I Read With Audra - The Indebted Earl by Erica Vetsch (Review, Interview, Giveaway)

4/11/2021

Can Captain Wyvern keep his new marriage of convenience all business--
or will it turn into something more?

Captain Charles Wyvern owes a great debt to the man who saved his life--especially since Major Richardson lost his own life in the process. The best way to honor that hero's dying wish is for Wyvern to escort the man's grieving fiance and mother safely to a new cottage home by the sea. But along the way, he learns of another obligation that has fallen on his shoulders: his uncle has died and the captain is now the Earl of Rothwell.

When he and the ladies arrive at his new manor house in Devon, they discover an estate in need of a leader and a gaggle of girls, all wards of the former earl. War the new earl knows; young ladies and properties he does not. Still wishing to provide for the bereaved Lady Sophia Haverly, Charles proposes a marriage of convenience.

Sophie is surprised to find she isn't opposed to the idea. It will help her care for her betrothed's elderly mother, and she's already fallen in love with the wayward girls on the Rothwell estate. This alliance is a chance to repay the captain who has done so much for her care, as well as divert her attention from her grief. When Wyvern returns to his sea commission, she'll stay behind to oversee his property and wards.

It sounds so simple. Until the stalwart captain is arrested on suspicion of smuggling, and Sophie realizes how much he's come to mean to her. Now she'll have to learn to fight, not only for his freedom but also for his love.

Click here to read an excerpt.

My Review

Can they both find a new dream...together?

I have to admit that the title of this book really made me curious. Why would they choose to call it The Indebted Earl? What did he owe and to whom? But, as Spencer Tracy said in the movie Desk Set, “Never assume!” And my initial guesses were quite charmingly proven wrong.

I've now read all of the stories, 3 novels and a Christmas novella, in the Serendipity & Secrets series. I've enjoyed them all, how can you not love an Erica Vetsch story, but I think The Indebted Earl might just be one of my two favorites. It's fun, it's romantic, it's entertaining, and it even has a delightful dash of mystery. What secrets will come to light when the new, and unwilling, earl takes up residence, hmmm?

One thing I'd like to touch on was Erica Vetsch's gentle portrayal of one of my favorite characters, Mamie. If you've ever had a parent or grandparent with age-related memory problems you'll know the pain and joy that can come with it. That's Mamie in this book, but she never lets it stop her and it certainly doesn't prevent those around her from falling for her sweet charm. I know that the hero and heroine are supposed to be your favorite characters but I will confess that Mamie, as well as little Thea, quite stole my heart away.

I loved this third novel in the Serendipity & Secrets series and I was a bit sorry to say goodbye when I turned that last page. This entire Regency era series from Erica Vetsch is well worth reading so don't miss out on The Indebted Earl!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Indebted Earl by Erica Vetsch a 4.5 Bark rating.

An Interview with Erica Vetsch,
Author of The Indebted Earl

Erica Vetsch brings her much beloved Serendipity & Secrets series to a close with the highly anticipated release of The Indebted Earl (Kregel Publications). This latest installment tells the story of Lady Sophia Haverly, the free-spirited and energetic younger sister of Marcus Haverly readers will remember from The Gentleman Spy, and Captain Charles Wyvern, a longtime naval officer trying to find his footing on dry land.

Q: Both Lady Sophia Haverly and Captain Charles Wyvern feel a responsibility to care for someone that is left behind. From where does that sense of duty come?

Lady Sophia’s care of her fiancé’s mother is born out of her love for him. She was also instilled from birth with the social customs of noblesse oblige. As a woman of noble birth, she has an obligation to live up to that nobility by behaving nobly. While her fiancé is at war, he has entrusted her with the care and companionship of his mother, Lady Richardson. Sophie is delighted with the responsibility, because it allows her to demonstrate her love, and it gives her a bit of freedom that living in her older brother’s household would not afford.

Captain Wyvern naturally shoulders responsibility for his ship and his crew. As the leader, everyone under his command is also under his care. This responsibility extends to the dependents of his crew, including the fiancée of his late best friend. Charles feels he bears the blame for his friend’s death, and he must attempt to make some sort of amends. His natural leadership abilities cause him to throw his mantel of responsibility over Lady Sophia, Lady Richardson, the three waifs who wash up on his shore, and the estate and community he’s inherited.

Q: Marcus tries to get Sophie to come back to Haverly Manor with him after her fiancé dies. Would a single woman in her situation during the Regency period have the choice to live on her own?

It would be difficult for an unmarried woman in the Regency era to live on her own. Though Sophie had the financial means to live independently, it would have been considered improper for her to live alone. However, for her to continue to live with Lady Richardson, as her companion and friend, was entirely proper.

Though Marcus is acting out of an abundance of compassion and brotherly concern, Sophie is reluctant to return to his home. She’s reluctant to give up the freedom she’s gained, as well as reluctant to live in a house where everyone will be watching her grieve. She wants to remain at Primrose Cottage with Lady Richardson.

Q: Can you give us a quick lesson in peerage and the hierarchy of society during this time period?

There are five ranks of nonroyal peerage in Britain: duke, marquess, earl, viscount, and baron, in descending order of rank. Most titles were entailed, meaning they passed from father to son, or to the next closest male in the lineage. Often a peer would also hold subsidiary titles at the same time, and his heir would be given use of one of the lesser titles as a courtesy. For example, an earl may also hold the subsidiary title of viscount, and while the earl is alive, his son would use the lesser title of viscount until he came into his inheritance.

The British aristocracy during the Regency period was quite small compared to the entire population of England. The government was divided into the House of Lords (where one must be a member of the peerage to have a seat) and the House of Commons, which was open to any elected official. Land was most often owned by members of the peerage. As the Industrial Revolution gained momentum, more and more commoners became wealthy, which caused some friction. As the wealth of a member of the peerage declined, they might look outside their exclusive set to marry some of that new money.

Q: All of your leading men in the series end up with titles and responsibilities they weren’t expecting. Within moments of arriving at his new home, Charles’s new responsibilities multiply. Can you tell us about the surprise he receives?

Charles finds himself as the guardian to three young girls, sisters who were born on the estate. His uncle, the previous earl, had, for reasons of his own, taken on the orphaned girls as his wards and paid for them to go to boarding school. But at his death, the girls were returned to the estate.

The eldest is nearing womanhood and is a romantic, eager to fall in love and bewildering to Charles. The second is a daredevil, tomboy, and adventuress in whom Charles sees glimpses of his younger self. And the third is a girl barely six summers old, who is fascinated by Charles and imitates him at every turn. He’s not certain which of the girls scares him most, and as a collective, they have that crusty old sea captain shaking in his boots.

Q: Charles is comfortable leading a ship full of men but finds himself in a house full of women. Does the very stern military officer become a softy?

As a captain in the Royal Navy, Charles has been trained to show no softness, no weakness. Conditions were harsh aboard ship, discipline strict, and the dangers of nonconformity very real. In addition, he’s not spent much time around women in general and none at all around girls. He mistrusts their giggling, crying, emotion, and, above all, what he sees as their lack of discipline.

But as he is exposed to them and their bewildering array of emotions, they each in their own way begin to break down those walls of sternness and discipline, teaching him that kindness and love will not make him vulnerable but, instead, make him stronger than he’s ever been.

Q: Will you be sad to let this trilogy—your first Regency series—go? What can readers look forward to next?

There’s such a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in seeing this series completed, but to answer your question . . . YES! I am so reluctant to let these stories and characters go that I’m bringing some of them back in my new series, the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries!

The first book, The Debutante’s Code, should arrive in the fall of 2021 and features Lady Juliette Thorndike and Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann in a fast-paced tale of intrigue, espionage, and art thievery!

Erica Vetsch

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling and ACFW Carol Award–winning author. She is a transplanted Kansan now living in Minnesota with her husband, who she claims is both her total opposite and soul mate.

Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum and cheering on her Kansas Jayhawks and New Zealand All Blacks.

A self-described history geek, she has been planning her first research trip to England.

Learn more about Erica Vetsch and her books at www.ericavetsch.com. She can also be found
on Facebook (@EricaVetschAuthor), Instagram (@EricaVetsch) and Pinterest (Erica Vetsch).

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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Movie Review - Colors Of Character (Giveaway)

4/8/2021