Category: Reviews

Book Review - Squire Of Truth by Jill Williamson

1/15/2025

Cole Tanniyn, squire to the soon-to-be king, has journeyed far from his days as a stray stable boy in a distant mountain village. Haunted by the echoes of past failures on the battlefield, he seeks solace in music, hoping to find belonging among fellow musicians. His quest leads him to Mistel Wepp, a spirited songstress determined to forge her own path on stage.

For too long, Mistel has been bound by a past of confinement and control. Now on her own, she toils tirelessly to make her mark, but the struggle to earn a living in a world that fails to appreciate her talents proves exhausting. When she connects Cole with the future king and discovers he's a skilled lutist, she sees an opportunity to change her future.

When a heinous crime leaves Mistel’s roommate dead, she turns to Cole for help. Despite his inexperience as an investigator, Cole vows to uncover the truth. Together, they delve into the dark alleys of Armonguard, uncovering a sinister web of secrets and sorcery that threatens the kingdom. As their journey unfolds, their shared love of music catches the attention of the king, who commissions them to compose a song for his upcoming wedding, offering a glimpse of normalcy amid adversity. Can Cole and Mistel prevail against enemies wielding dark magic? Or will they become the next casualties in a deadly game of power?

Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Genre: Medieval Fantasy

My Review

Can they uncover the truth before it's too late...

Well, I must admit that Squire Of Truth was a bit of a surprise. Who would have thought of combining a YA-ish fantasy tale with a murder mystery? Well, Jill Williamson as a matter of fact. She, is actually the reason I picked up this first Blood Of Kings: Legends novel as I have enjoyed several of her previous books – some of them set in the same fantasy realm.

I really enjoyed this story from start to finish. Jill Williamson skillfully blended just the right amount of fantasy and magic with mystery and deduction. Her worldbuilding is as vivid and detailed as ever and her characters are quite likable. I must admit that as much as liked Mistel, I loved Cole. His insecurities and attempts to measure up – even when he already has – are so endearing.

The mystery angle is also well done. It is properly set up and the various threads carry all the way through to story. I must admit that I didn't always expect the direction that the solution took them as the characters investigated and it was fun to be surprised a little.

Squire Of Truth was a a very enjoyable read. The pacing and length of the story nicely proportionate and the ending left me wanting to read the next Blood Of Kings: Legends book. I'm just hoping the wait won't be too long...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Squire Of Truth by Jill Williamson a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Memoria by J.J. Fischer (Give.away)

12/20/2024

3 Comments

Would you save a life if you knew it would destroy another?

In the deeply divided world of Caldera, nothing is as it seems. Taken captive by a faceless enemy, Sephone Winter fights to reclaim her soul as her gift spirals out of control and the deadly poison coursing through her veins begins to exact its terrible vengeance.
Meanwhile, Dorian and Cass are forced into an uneasy alliance in order to find the woman they both love . . . a woman who has all but vanished from the face of the earth, along with the Reliquary. Finding her becomes impossible as the identity of their greatest adversary continues to elude them.
When Caldera’s past catches up with the trio’s future, Sephone, Dorian, and Cass are forced to make decisions that threaten everything and everyone they care about. Each of them is offered a chance to sacrifice their own happiness for the sake of the other—but will they take it? And what will it cost them in the end?

Genre: Adult Fantasy
Release date: December 10, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Each and everyone must make a choice....

J.J. Fischer had me hooked with the first book in the Nightingale Trilogy, she had me intrigued with the second book, but this third one was engrossing in a different way....

To be sure, J.J. Fischer's vivid worldbuilding, captivating attention to detail, and mad storytelling skills were ever present and accounted for, however, there was something deeper and even more heartfelt about Memoria. Even the title of this final Nightingale Trilogy novel, Memoria, has a more solemn and introspective feel to it.

Trust me, this book is full of emotion. And you will run the gamut as you turn the pages be they print or digital. The characters must face not only the utter darkness before dawn but they also must face themselves and the infinite need for redemption and forgiveness.

Bittersweet, it was and is a fitting conclusion to the Nightingale Trilogy, though there is supposed to be a companion novel that I am intensely looking forward to reading. As with any good fantasy/dystopian novel there is a dark tone to the series – particularly in Memoria – that not only makes it perfect for older teen and and adult readers, but is also makes the light of hope shine all the brighter.

Anyway, cannot recommend this series from J.J. Fischer highly enough. Read them in order but definitely do read them all if you are a fan of Christian fantasy and/or dystopian fiction. They really are a MUST read....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Memoria by J.J. Fischer a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

More from J.J.

Have you ever felt God’s comfort in the midst of a horrific trial?

In 2021, midway through writing Memoria (Book 3 of The Nightingale Trilogy), my husband Dave and I were blindsided by his discovery of several sizable lumps on his neck. Those lumps turned out to be lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes), requiring immediate treatment.

2021 had already been a shocking year for us (and everyone else!). I’d lost both my remaining grandparents in the space of a few months. We were in the middle of a worldwide pandemic and one of the harshest lockdowns my state of New South Wales (Australia) had yet seen—which would necessitate going into further isolation while Dave underwent chemotherapy. And while I’d just received a diagnosis for my chronic illness, my recurring migraines (sometimes multiple a week) made it difficult for me to reliably drive Dave to and from his chemotherapy sessions.

But in one of the hardest times of our lives thus far, God provided. Dave made it through his chemo and has been in remission for some time now (though we’re still dealing with the consequences of the treatment in regards to fertility). I was able to drive him to all but two of his chemo sessions, and family and friends supported us in incredible ways. I’ve now received treatment for my chronic illness, which has helped me significantly and allowed me to take on more work as a freelance editor.

Eventually, I got back to Memoria, and wrote the second half of the story. And now, in hindsight, I can see the importance of God’s timing. Because Memoria is a story about pain—how we respond to it, what we do with it, and how it can poison our soul, if we let it. And ultimately, this book points to Jesus, the only one who can handle that pain, that poison, without succumbing Himself.

Are you struggling with a well of pain and suffering (and/or sin) in your own life? Perhaps not just things that you’ve done, but things that have been done to you? Are you struggling to keep your head above the raging waters, feeling swamped and pummeled by all God’s waves and breakers (Psalm 42:7)?

For starters, I want you to know that God keeps track of all your sorrows, every tear you cry (Psalm 56:8). You might feel invisible to the world, but you are not invisible to God. He knows everything about you, even the things you’ve never shared with anyone before. Even the pain you might not yourself have acknowledged.

The second piece of encouragement I want to share is that God promises to one day wipe all those tears from your eyes (Revelation 21:4). He won’t let those tears fall endlessly into eternity, ruining the perfect future He has in store for you. He will comfort you. He will bring you into his house, rejoicing over you. He can handle your pain (even the poison) without succumbing. Even your death is not the end of the story, because death was not the end of His.

I wrote The Nightingale Trilogy partly to deal with the pain of things in my own life. But as this series draws to a close, I hope it is a blessing to you in whatever season you’re going through right now (or will go through in future). I hope it reminds you of Eternity, and that you are greatly loved by the God who died to reclaim your soul.

God bless,
J. J. Fischer

J.J. Fischer

J.J. Fischer’s writing dream began with the anthology of zoo animals shepainstakingly wrote and illustrated at age five. Jasmine began writing her first proper novel at age fourteen, which eventually became her debut fantasy series, The Darcentaria Duology, which was published in 2021. She is a qualified psychologist with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in clinical psychology. When Jasmine isn’t killing defenseless house plants, she enjoys devouring books, dabbling in floristry, playing the piano, and wishing it rained more often. Jasmine is married to David, and together they make their home a couple of hours north of Sydney, Australia.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, J.J. is giving away the grand prize of
a special edition hardcover copy of the book, a signed bookplate, and character art!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54118

Blog Stops

A Reader’s Brain, December 14 (Author Interview)
Simple Harvest Reads, December 15 (Guest Review from Mindy)
The Lofty Pages, December 16
Back Porch Reads, December 17 (Author Interview)
Wishful Endings, December 17
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 18 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, December 19
Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 20
Fiction Book Lover, December 21 (Author Interview)
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, December 21
Locks, Hooks and Books, December 22
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 23
Guild Master, December 24 (Author Interview)
Artistic Nobody, December 25 (Spotlight)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 26
Inspired by Fiction, December 27

3 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Lethal Kings by Victoria McCombs (Give.away)

11/23/2024

2 Comments

You’ve been warned many times, you cannot trust the kings . . . The old queen is dead, a new queen is in play, and the realm has descended into darkness. For the first time in history, a queen has rejected the game. Eliza will start her reign with no alliances while Althea must fight to save her tenuous bond with the king who cannot love. Her relationship threatens to break, but Althea’s attention becomes divided after receiving a few harrowing clues connecting her past and the game at hand.
Before she can find answers, a mysterious fae appears promising the power of the seventh king to whoever can solve a series of riddles, leaving the fae realm in shambles as they race to come out on top. Althea has one year left. New alliances are forged. Old stories come to life. She must make her move, or the fate of the queens will consume her.

Genre: YA Fae Fantasy
Release date: November 12, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Hearts will be cracked and the realm shaken....

Wow! I thought the first book in The Fae Dynasty duology was good...but this, this I think may have been even better. Lethal Kings is one wild ride of intrigue, betrayal, mystery, and sacrifice – with just a touch of romance. Victoria McCombs kept me on the edge of my seat as Thea plays a dangerous game with the highest of all stakes – her life and that of the other Mortal Queens....

Lethal Kings and The Fae Dynasty duology is everything that I love about the fantasy sub-genre. It is deliciously dark as all stories featuring the devious, manipulative, and sometimes capricious fae should be. The twists and turns keep you guessing as you second guess the motives of pretty much every single character. And the best part? You get to read all of that without the objectionable content that often comes with stories of the fae realms.

Victoria McCombs is a definite master of storytelling and worldbuilding. Both the fae and mortal realms are vividly depicted and the little things that make a story like this one great – things like history, culture, and rules of magic – are not skimped upon. The past and present are cleverly woven together so that there is a purpose and a reason for everything and each part completes the other.

As you can tell I loved both of The Fae Dynasty books and I am now a confirmed fan of Victoria McCombs. Whether you are an adult or teen who loves fantasy and/or fae fiction I definitely recommend Lethal Kings and its predecessor as they are a tale you won't be able to put down....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Lethal Kings by Victoria McCombs a 5 Bark rating.

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

More from Victoria

This book came differently to me than my other ones.

It was less plot and structure, and more—what kind of book do I want to write?

I wanted riddles for them to solve, which created the Gamemaster character. I wanted a healthy family aspect, which began the process of repairing the relationships I’d burned in book one. And I wanted a character who knew exactly what she wanted and never waivered from that. Other scenes came from these wishes, like the chess game where the players are the chess pieces, and the War of Hearts played in the labyrinth.

Together, I think it blended nicely, and I can’t wait for readers to get ahold of it!

Victoria McCombs

Victoria McCombs is the author of The Storyteller Series, The Royal Rose Chronicles, and The Fae Dynasty duology, with hopefully many more to come. She survives on hazelnut coffee, 20-minute naps, and a healthy fear of her deadlines, all while raising four wildlings with her husband in Omaha, Nebraska.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5499

Blog Stops

Inspired by Fiction, November 16
The Lofty Pages, November 16
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 17
Texas Book-aholic, November 18
Inklingsandnotions , November 19
Locks, Hooks and Books, November 20
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, November 21
Book Looks by Lisa, November 21
Wishful Endings, November 22
Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 23
Book Butterfly in Dreamland, November 24
Blogging With Carol, November 25
Simple Harvest Reads, November 26 (Guest Review from Mindy)
Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, November 27
Fiction Book Lover, November 28 (Author Interview)
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 29

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Locket's Revenge by L.E. Richmond (Give.away)

11/10/2024

4 Comments

A Trinket Could Unleash a Tempest

Locklyn Adair thought that finding the Sea Enchantress would lift her family’s curse. But the ramifications of her desire for a tail reach further than she could ever have dreamed. Now the entire Undersea Realm is in peril, as Circe, armed with the locket capable of controlling the Loch Ness monster, journeys to the North Sea in pursuit of revenge.

Darin Aalto’s specialty is tracking down treasure. When it looks as though a magical locket has fallen into evil hands, he joins Locklyn and her crew on an expedition to recover it, hoping to find a key to his past identity along the way. Despite having no memory of the Mermaid leading the quest, he wonders if she was more than a friend all along.

As a vengeful enchantress, fiery monster, and impending war threaten the Undersea Realm, Locklyn and Darin must decide what they are willing to sacrifice in order to stop the locket’s revenge.

Genre: YA Fantasy (Little Mermaid Retelling)
Release date: October 22, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

It's a race against time to save the undersea...

Oh what a story this was! The Locket's Revenge is everything I had anticipated after reading the first Chronicles Of The Undersea Realm book – and a whole lot more. L.E. Richmond's storytelling and worldbuilding were every bit as vivid and skilled and I was so immersed in the story that there were times I was almost surprised I breathed air instead of seawater.

The Locket's Revenge is the second half of the Chronicles Of The Undersea Realm duology which is, in my reading experience, a surprisingly unique Little Mermaid retelling – well maybe more of a nod than a direct retelling. I love fairytale retellings of many varieties but I have to say that the choice L.E. Richmond made to twine the familiar Little Mermaid tale within a YA fantasy adventure story instead of focusing on it was rather genius.

Anyway, The Locket's Revenge is a must read for any Christian/Clean fantasy fan whether they be 12 or a few decades more. It is a satisfying conclusion to the Chronicles Of The Undersea Realm duology that really amps up the danger and excitement as the stakes are even higher than in book one. L.E. Richmond really nailed it with these books and I sincerely hope to see her name on more book covers in the future....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Locket's Revenge by L.E. Richmond a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

More from L.E.

Somebody is going to die. But they didn’t at first.

Minor spoiler alert, a character is going to die near the end of The Locket’s Revenge. But in my first draft of this story, this person didn’t die. It wasn’t until I was going back through and trying to flesh out the book a bit that I realized that this character needed to die. My family knows that I am a discovery writer, but they still laughed when I told them how so-and-so squeaked through alive on the first draft, but the death sentence came in the second one. To me, this is actually one of the most fun things about being a discovery writer. During the drafting process, I get to experience the story for the first time, just like any reader. Most of the time, I don’t actually know what is going to happen next. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

L.E. Richmond

L.E. Richmond was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest by an American writing teacher and a German bookseller. Her childhood largely consisted of imagining stories for her Playmobil
characters and checking out as many books from the library as would fit on six library cards. Now she spends her time chasing three little Muggles, reading aloud to the hazel-eyed young man who has her heart, and attempting to transfer the stories in her head into words for others. Her passion is for words and stories that thrill the soul, and she is endlessly amazed by the One who not only used words to bring this world into being but also crafted the most epic story of all time.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, L.E. is giving away the grand prize of
a $50 Amazon card and a signed copy of the book!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5483

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, October 31
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 1 (Author Interview)
Wishful Endings, November 1
Artistic Nobody, November 2 (Spotlight)
Fiction Book Lover, November 3 (Author Interview)
Locks, Hooks and Books, November 4
A Reader’s Brain , November 5 (Author Interview)
Inklings and notions, November 6
Simple Harvest Reads, November 7 (Author Interview)
Blogging With Carol, November 8
Stories By Gina, November 9 (Author Interview)
Min Read and Reviews, November 9
Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 10
Holly’s Book Corner, November 11
Guild Master, November 12 (Spotlight)
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 13

4 Comments

Just Read Blog Tour - A Path To Healing by Lisa M. James (Give.away)

11/7/2024

2 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Path to Healing by Lisa M. James,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Scarred. Blemished. Unwanted. These were all words that could describe Bethany. Since an accident disfigured the right side of her face, severing the betrothal to the man she loved, Bethany knew that no one would ever find her beautiful. When her mother insists she marries the only man willing to take her as a wife, Bethany begrudgingly agrees. Yet, the more she discovers about her new husband, the more she realizes that some scars are hidden deep within.
After becoming a champion gladiator to purchase his mother’s freedom, Ezra wished to live a quiet life as a shepherd. When he hires a troubled woman with a veiled face to assist him with his flock, he’s surprised to find himself drawn to discover the woman beneath the mask. After a hasty marriage, Ezra vows to do everything he must to spare his wife from harm. But will her thirst for revenge against the dark forces that plague their homeland and his desperate need to protect his family tear them apart?
Discover the story of a blemished woman in A Path to Healing.
This Christian Fantasy novel can be read as a stand-alone novel or as part of The Prodigal Woman Series.

Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: November 1, 2024
Genre: Christian Fantasy/Romance

PURCHASE LINKS:
Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books in This Series

My Review

Healing never comes easy....

I've been following the Prodigal Woman series since the first book and I've gotten invested in the characters lives. Gradually they have come to feel a bit like old friends. In A Path To Healing it's Bethany's turn to find hope and, in good fantasy fashion, battle the Shadowclans with her axes. Her hero Ezra has his own battles to fight both internally and with weapons. And trust me, Lisa M. James rarely gives her characters a moment to breathe.

One of the things that I have found fairly unique about the Prodigal Woman series is that author Lisa M. James covered roughly the same time period in each one and, of course, A Path To Healing has been no exception. It has been both fun and interesting to see the war with the Shadowclans through the eyes of three very different couples who each have an important part to play. I've loved getting to see the same events through two and even three of the characters' eyes and experiences.

It's hard to believe that A Path To Healing is the final Prodigal Woman novel. Lisa M. James has kept me intrigued by her fantasy worldbuilding that enhances these stories of redemption and faith. Each book has been entertaining but they also make you ponder and that, I think, has been a good thing....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives A Path To Healing by Lisa M. James a 4 Bark rating.

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

Lisa M. James

Lisa M. James is an independent author, marketer, and former Sunday School teacher. She loves writing fantasy novels with diverse female leads for both young adult and adult audiences. Her novels have hit the Amazon Best Sellers list for numerous Fantasy categories, including Sword and Sorcery Fantasy, Christian Fantasy, and Religious Romance. Her fictional writing is inspired by Historical Fiction, Fantasy genres, and Christian novels.
Connect with Lisa by visiting lisamjames.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Path to Healing
and an embroidered backpack purse!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 6, 2024 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on November 13, 2024. 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!

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

10/31/2024

6 Comments

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

This woman and her K-9 are being hunted.
Exactly as she planned.

When a busload of schoolchildren disappears, Phoenix Gray knows the kidnapper is the unidentified serial killer she’s spent her life trying to catch. This time, she’ll find the killer and bring him to justice no matter what it takes. She and her Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency join the search for the hostages, but they aren’t the only ones who want the criminal captured.

Callum Ross, an FBI agent who specializes in catching serial criminals, is about to resign. But not until he finds one last culprit, the killer behind a famous twenty-year-old crime Callum vowed to solve.

Despite the FBI agent’s uncanny understanding of her psyche, Phoenix refuses to be distracted from her goal. When the serial killer turns into the cat instead of the mouse, Phoenix thinks she’s ready. But will she need the God she rejected to achieve the justice she’s given her life to obtain?

Publisher: SDG Words, LLC
Release Date: October 24, 2024
Genre: Christian romantic suspense

More Books in This Series

My Review

She'll see that justice prevails, no matter what...

This is the book I have been waiting for. Through the entire Guardians Unleashed series I have been beyond curious to find out about the mysterious and enigmatic Phoenix Gray. Finally, Terminal Danger is here and thanks to author Jerusha Agen my burning curiosity has been well satisfied.

Terminal Danger was everything that I had anticipated. It fully lived up to the rest of the Guardians Unleashed books and Jerusha Agen really kept me on the edge of my seat.

From the start I wondered just what kind of a hero could match Phoenix and keep up with her intelligence. Callum kind of surprised me. In some ways he is the stereotypical romantic suspense hero and yet he really isn't. I really appreciated just how much time Jerusha Agen spent in his head as well as in Phoenix's. The inside and outside perspective on each of the lead characters was both fun to read and interesting.

In some ways Terminal Danger was a little bittersweet. It delivered all of the thrills, twists and turns, and excitement that I love in romantic suspense but it is also the last Guardians Unleashed novel. I finally have my answers but saying goodbye to the characters I have come to love over several books is just a tad tough.

Anyway, this is a great book in a wonderful series and best of all, it has dogs. Wonderful, smart K9s who are every bit the heroes that their people are. If you haven't read them yet you are seriously missing out....

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

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

Jerusha Agen

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies.

Connect with Jerusha by visiting jerushaagen.com to find more of her thrilling, fear-fighting stories, follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Terminal Danger, a Terminal Danger
mug, $25 Barnes and Noble gift card, Terminal Danger magnet, plus more swag!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 28, 2024 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on November 4, 2024. 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 atJustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

6 Comments

Movie Review - Lost On A Mountain In Maine (Give.away)

10/25/2024

1 Comment

Watch this moving family film in theaters starting November 1st!

The inspiring true story of 12-year-old Donn Fendler who, separated from his family by a fast-moving storm, must fight to stay alive while lost for nine-days in the remote wilderness of northern Maine. Donn’s disappearance captures national headlines and sparks a massive search effort attracting hundreds of volunteers, including his own father who fears he may never see his son again.

Buy tickets today to see Lost on a Mountain in Maine
in theaters starting November 1st!

Website

Tickets

My Review

He's alone and one misstep from death....

The first thing that attracted me to this film was finding out that Lost On A Mountain In Maine was based on a true story. It was real. And both the film and story are utterly fascinating...

I was impressed with the movie from start to finish. The starkness really lent to the desperation of Donn to return to his family and of Mr. and Mrs. Fendler to find their son. The addition of interview clips and actual footage inserted at just the right places was poignant and I found that they immersed me within the story – and the emotion of the story – in a whole new way.

And if there is one thing that this film is, it's emotionally moving. As both Donn and his father have to come to terms with mistakes made and their own cracked relationship. Family is the most important thing in the world and Lost On A Mountain In Maine champions that fact.

The movie is well made and I loved that they kept the 1939 setting instead of modernizing it or keeping it ambiguous. As a side note, it is a family friendly film not an overtly Christian one so there is some minor language etc.

Anyway, it's a good movie and one that I would definitely watch again if I had the chance. It's one of those movies that middle to older kids can watch as can adults with or without children. So, if you love movies based on true stories or just enjoy a good adventure film check out Lost On A Mountain In Maine...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Lost On A Mountain In Maine a 4.5 Bark rating.

(Disclosure: Many thanks to WIT PR for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.)

It's Time For A Giveaway!

1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon giftcard!

(USA ONLY)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#LostOnAMountainInMaineMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

1 Comment

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Time Door by Shannon McDermott (Give.away)

10/24/2024

8 Comments

A reckless last mission on Mars, a crusade for justice on Earth …
Reuben Jackson is the only one who still cares about Mars. In the shambles of the Great Collapse, Earth has abandoned the Mars explorers to their fate. But Reuben will make a stand for the Mars team—even against the powerfully united politicians and scientists.
In too deep, he discovers hidden conspiracies and unexpected allies.
As the conflict mounts on Earth, time runs down on Mars. Left to face Mars alone, Commander Donegan Moynihan and his team have no hope of surviving after their supplies are gone. Willing to accept a quicker death than starvation, the explorers strike out on a dangerous mission. They venture deep inside the ancient volcano of Arsia Mons, into perils and secrets long buried. What they discover would move mountains on Earth—but will it be enough to save themselves?

Genre: Adult Science Fiction
Release date: October 8, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Secrets & betrayal abound with a Martian mission....

I've never been a big sci-fi fan but Enclave has slowly been changing my mind. The Time Door is such an intriguing title that I would have wanted to read this book even if I hadn't seen the cover blurb and didn't already enjoy the publisher.

Shannon McDermott is a new-to-me author but I am always up for finding additional authors to add to my must-read list. With her storytelling skill painting a vividly imaginative dystopian Earth and harsh Martian landscape – both of which, may be more than they first appear – and a cast of interesting characters this first The Eternities book kept me intrigued from start to finish.

I may be new to Shannon McDermott's exciting fiction but I fully intend on being back for the next book in The Eternities duology. The Time Door just really got me good and hooked....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Time Door by Shannon McDermott a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Shannon

There is a story of an abandoned space colony. Still young, still unsteady, and suddenly cut off from the mother planet—the colony will either learn fast to survive alone, or it will die altogether.

The story has been told again and again, a thousand variations on the old theme. When I was getting acquainted with it, through battered paperbacks and anthologies gathered from the old “scientifiction” magazines, I noticed that the colonies were usually abandoned because of a space plague, or aliens, or interplanetary war.

Exotic, exciting problems, the stuff of science fiction. But I had a thought: What if the reason for abandoning a space colony were a bit prosaic? What if there was just no more money?

The national debt is very much a thing (and an ever-growing thing, at an ever-increasing rate). We would be in trouble if that debt were ever called, or even if no more could be contracted. If it suddenly became time to pay the piper, if the money running off the press was no longer good enough—America couldn’t afford to support a colony on Mars. And we would have too many problems of our own to care very much about theirs.

A classic sci-fi story with a modern twist, something fantastic mixed with something prosaic. I liked it.

As I set to work on the idea, I soon made another variation to the theme. The abandoned colony did not take the whole stage. I gave equal space to those who had abandoned it. Good or bad, they had their reasons; they had their story, too. And as I began to write it, I realized that both stories were about survival. The struggle over whether they survived, and how, and what they would become on the other side.

These ideas grew into The Time Door—two parallel stories, separated by the distance between Mars and Earth, and yet united in the end. Whether abandoned on Mars, or caught in the collapse on Earth, they all need a way out; they all need to find a door.

Shannon McDermott

Shannon McDermott is an author of science fiction and has been occupied for years with constructing scenarios of the colonization of Mars. Always a fan of the genre, she reviews Christian speculative fiction with Lorehaven. Her interests include history, classic literature, and lattes. She lives in the great Midwest, where she does her best to avoid icy weather, sweltering heat, and tornadoes, according to the season.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5470/

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 17
Blossoms and Blessings, October 18 (Author Interview)
Wishful Endings, October 18
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 19
The Lofty Pages, October 20
Artistic Nobody, October 21 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, October 22
Guild Master, October 23 (Spotlight)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 24
Blogging With Carol, October 25
A Reader’s Brain, October 26 (Author Interview)
Fiction Book Lover, October 27 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, October 27
Simple Harvest Reads, October 28 (Author Interview)
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 29
Lily’s Corner, October 30

8 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Virginia by Shannon McNear (Give.away)

10/13/2024

5 Comments

The White Doe of the Outer Banks Grows into Womanhood

Return to the “what if” questions surrounding the Lost Colony and explore the possible fate of Virginia Dare–the first English child born in the New World. What happened to her after her grandfather John White returned to England and the colony he established disappeared into the mists of time? Legends abound, but she was indeed a real girl who, if she survived to adulthood, must have also become part of the legacy that is the people of the Outer Banks. In the spring of 1602 by English reckoning, “Ginny,” as she is called by family and friends, is fourteen and firmly considered a grown woman by the standards of the People. For her entire life she has watched the beautiful give-and-take of the Kurawoten and other native peoples with the English who came from across the ocean. She’s enjoyed being the darling of both English and Kurawoten alike—but a stirring deep inside her will not be put to rest.

One careless decision lands her and fellow “first baby” Henry Harvie, along with their Croatoan friend Redbud, in enemy hands. Carried away into Mangoac territory, out of the reach of Manteo and the others, she must learn who she truly is—not only the daughter of Elinor and Ananias Dare but also a child of the One True God, who gives her courage to go wherever the path of her life might lead.

Click here to get your copy!

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical Romance
Release date: September, 2024

My Review

Can she hang on to faith while she is a captive?

I have long been fascinated by one of the greatest American mysteries of all time, what happened to the lost colony of Roanoke? As a result of that fascination I have eagerly read every single one of Shannon McNear's intriguing Daughters Of The Lost Colony series. Virginia is the 'final' book in that series and her 'story' is one that I have been looking forward to since reading the very first book.

Full of rich historical detail, great characters, and an intriguing what if scenario, Virginia is a good read, really, the entire Daughters of The Lost Colony series is a don't miss it for Christian historical fiction lovers.

I really liked the two main characters in this fourth Daughters Of The Lost Colony novel. Ginny is so headstrong but she is also loyal and loves fiercely. Her hero is exactly what she needs, strong but kind and wise even beyond his years.

Of the 4 books in this series from Shannon McNear, I think that this is one of the best. The first one, Elinor is probably my favorite, but Virginia is the one that kept my attention from start to finish with little to sidetrack me. Anyway, Shannon McNear did a great job with this book and series in general and I'm glad to have spent the time reading it....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Virginia by Shannon McNear a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Shannon

So—here we are! I am just so, SO, sooo blessed to get to be on Celebrate Lit yet again. And book FOUR of my Lost Colony series! Initially I thought two, maybe three books. I pretty much disregarded the possibility of writing Virginia Dare’s story because, well, there’s a good bit of mythology surrounding her, and I felt absolutely no inclination to tackle any of that.

Until early last year. The idea dropped into my head and seemed too obvious to turn away. I didn’t have much idea of what would actually happen in the story, although I knew I wanted to explore the identity of the Mangoac, who held the interior of what is now North Carolina and Virginia when the Spanish and the English first arrived in the New World. They spoke an Iroquoian language and were referred to with dread and distaste among all their neighbors, including the Powhatan. Those people are what we know now as the Tuscarora.

Little was known of the Tuscarora before John Lawson wrote of his journey through the Carolinas in 1700-01. A few years later, Lawson himself met with a fairly horrible death at the hands of the Tuscarora (one wonders what he might have done to tick them off), and tensions soon escalated between settlers and indigenous peoples into all-out war. After their defeat by the English, the Tuscarora people moved northward and became the sixth nation of the Iroquois Confederacy.

They call themselves Skaru:re--pronounced sgah-ROOO-rah (with that long “ooh” held out a little extra)—translated variously as “Long-Shirt People” or “Hemp People,” for the garments they would weave from “Indian hemp,” also known as milkweed. The Tuscarora word for milkweed does indeed contain the same root as Skaru:re, but no one knows when as a people they might have made the transition from merely using milkweed fiber for cording or twine to spinning and weaving it into fabric, as the English did flax for linen.

I decided to have a bit of fun in my story, then, with Ginny being questioned about the making of a linen garment, and then a later mention of a “rough, twiny fabric.” I’d meant to expand upon that a bit, or at least address it in the historical notes at the end—and then completely forgot until working through the galleys.

So I get to talk about it—now.

You might guess that both details, which may feel random to the casual reader, are a nod to the translation of the name Skaru:re, and to the influence that either the Spanish or the English might have had on various Native people groups. A good author endeavors, of course, to not have any random details littering a story. In Virginia, many small things point back to previous stories—there are hints of connection to Rebecca as well even though either story could be read before the other. By the same token, all four books are what we could term alternate history—a reach beyond what is known into what might have been. I think it most likely that as Native peoples acquired European fashions, they used what they already had (in the case of the Skaru:re, a familiarity with milkweed and other materials to provide fiber) to produce garments and other items modeled after what the Spanish and English used. They were nothing if not eager to take advantage of new technologies—and what if their contact with members of the Lost Colony was what sparked the idea behind their famed “long shirts”?

A stretch, for sure. But there’s a reason why I’ve always enjoyed writing speculative fiction as well as historical.

Shannon McNear

Transplanted to North Dakota after more than two decades in the Deep South, Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. She’s the author of four novellas, the first a 2014 RITA® nominee and the most recent a 2021 SELAH winner, and six full-length novels. Her greatest joy, however, is in being a military wife, mom, mother-in-law, and grammie. She’s been a contributor to Colonial Quills and The Borrowed Book, and is a current member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Faith, Hope, & Love Christian Writers. When not cooking, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, basking in the beauty of the northern prairies.

It's Time For A Giveaway

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5458

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 4
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 4
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 5
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 6
To Everything There Is A Season, October 6
Devoted To Hope, October 7
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 8
lakesidelivingsite, October 9
Texas Book-aholic, October 9
Betti Mace, October 10
Melissa’s Bookshelf, October 11
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, October 11
Books You Can Feel Good About, October 12
Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 13
Bizwings Book Blog, October 14
Cover Lover Book Review, October 15
Lights in a Dark World, October 15
Holly’s Book Corner, October 16
Sylvan Musings, October 17
Pause for Tales, October 17

5 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - When The Mountain Crumbled by Angela K. Couch (Give.away)

10/9/2024

3 Comments

Though Mountains Crumble, Hope Is Not Buried
Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that
transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man,
these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.

Discipline and rules are the foundation on which Samantha Ingles has built her life—the life of a spinster schoolteacher in a small mining town in the Canadian Rockies. All that crumbles from her grasp when part of a mountain crashes down on their community.
Constable David Harty has little patience for the strict schoolmarm but has no choice but to leave his three young nieces in her care while he tries to discover the fate of his brother. Already, the girls have lost their mother and brothers to the landslide and require comfort and love while they await the fate of their father, possibly buried in the coal mine.
With the mountain looming over their heads threatening more lives, and the town scrambling to save who they can from the rubble, can hearts find healing—both for their own sakes and the children in their care?

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction
Release date: September, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Things are forever changed in 100 seconds...

Wow... as I'm sitting here after turning that last page just a moment or two ago it's hard to put my thoughts into words. The emotion of When The Mountain Crumbled is as enormous as the mountain that fell. The loss and grief standing in opposition to the miracles of survival simply tugs at the heart.

I had never heard of the Frank Slide prior to reading this fourth A Day To Remember novel but I have found the tragic and inspiring story to be quite fascinating. And to look at photos of before, just after, and now, is still a bit difficult to wrap your head around.

3 decades ago my family lived through disaster that struck our town, losing our home and most of our possessions. Like the people of Frank some were removed before the disaster hit and some, like my family, had to go through it. So that question of why some and not others is one that I understand. Angela K. Couch made her story even better and realistic by the inclusion of that personal struggle for her characters as she acknowledges those unanswered questions.

Anyway, Angela K. Couch has a pretty good story with When The Mountain Crumbled. Her characters are quite human as there are moments when you positively dislike them and others when you just want to give them a hug. So prepare to need a tissue or two and dive into this standalone book in the A Day To Remember historical series that is based on true events across the years....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives When The Mountain Crumbled by Angela K. Couch a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Angela

Around 4:10 am on April 29th, 1903, approximately 110 million metric tonnes of limestone broke from the side of Turtle Mountain and crashed down into the Crowsnest Valley, burying ranches, camps, an active coal mine, and a part of the town of Frank. What has come to be known as “Frank Slide” was the deadliest landslide in North American recorded history, claiming the lives of more than seventy people.

I first visited Frank Slide as a child, as it is located only an hour’s drive from my home. All I remember from that experience was the heaps of rocks and boulders, and the story of the mine-horse named Charlie. When driving through the Crowsnest Pass as an adult, I began to appreciate the terror of that night and the horrible loss of life. Not until expanding my research while writing this story, did the miracles of Frank shine through everything horrible that happened. That became the focus of my story, When the Mountain Crumbled.

I find our own lives follow a similar pattern. Tragedy, hardship, sickness and disappointment… but do we see the miracles?

Angela K. Couch

To keep from freezing in the great white north, Angela K. Couch cuddles under quilts with her laptop. Winning short story contests, being a semi-finalist in ACFW’s Genesis Contest, and a finalist in the 2016 International Digital Awards also helped warm her up. As a passionate believer in Christ, her faith permeates the stories she tells. Her martial arts training, experience with horses, and appreciation for good romance sneak in as well. When not writing, she stays fit (and toasty warm) by chasing after five munchkins.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5456

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 2
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 2
Life on Chickadee Lane, October 3
Betti Mace, October 4
Lighthouse Academy Blog, October 5 (Guest Review from Marilyn)
Devoted To Hope, October 6
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 6
Texas Book-aholic, October 7
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 8
Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 9
Bizwings Book Blog, October 9
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10
Holly’s Book Corner, October 11
Blossoms and Blessings, October 11
An Author’s Take, October 12
Cover Lover Book Review, October 13
Mary Hake, October 13
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 14
Pause for Tales, October 15
Connie’s History Classroom, October 15

3 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Ignite by Kara Swanson (Give.away)

10/6/2024

2 Comments

Can Mara survive in a world where the
fire in her veins is worth killing for?

In a frozen wasteland suffocating beneath a dying sun, Mara is a young phoenix raised by her father to explode at his command. He’s the only one who can help her control her fire, and Mara desperately follows his orders to protect their phoenix family from relentless human hunters.
Her sheltered existence is shattered when her family mysteriously vanishes, thrusting Mara into a perilous quest to find them. Along the way, she unravels a devastating truth: her people may not be the innocent victims she’s been taught to believe.
When she comes face-to-face with the kindhearted Eli, she begins to wonder if the humans aren’t the monsters she’s always feared. What if the greatest danger doesn’t lie in the icy world outside—but in the truth of who Mara really is?
Fire and ice collide in this thrilling tale of a phoenix girl born with the power of a dying sun.

Genre: YA Fantasy
Release Date: August 20, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

An icy wasteland, a fiery girl, and a search....

Wow, I was totally hooked on Kara Swanson's fantastic and fantastical fiction with her Heirs Of Neverland books but this first The Phoenix Flame novel really amps it up. Ignite is one vividly intense story that is a truly wonderful flight of imagination.

Ignite captured me right from the start. From the icy realm with a dying sun to the intricate phoenix culture Kara Swanson once again proves her skill and mastery of fantasy that appeals to teens as well as adults.

Mara's story is one that tugs at the heart and resonates even as it captivates and entertains. And this first book in The Phoenix Flame, not sure if it is a duology or series yet, is very entertaining in all of the best ways.

As you can probably surmise, I enjoyed every minute reading Ignite. I love a good fantasy escape gets my emotions just as involved as my imagination and Kara Swanson has managed that perfectly with her Phoenix Flame tale of fire and ice....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Ignite by Kara Swanson a 5 Bark rating.

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

More from Kara

This story is one that has lived a hundred lives, a little like the phoenix it’s about —dozens of iterations and nearly eight years discovering Mara’s story. In this icy world beneath a dying sun, I was able to craft a story of a young phoenix girl who was more terrified of her own fire than the dangers of the frozen wasteland outside her underground hideaway. Who has been convinced by the father she loves that her flame is only capable of pain and damage — until suddenly, he disappears. And for the first time, she ventures out of her hideaway to discover that the frozen world outside is actually dying for her flame. And that the parts of herself that she has feared and run from…that there may be beauty, even there. That she can choose to rise from the ash of a world that doesn’t understand her, and use the fire in her veins to bring warmth and healing.

I hope you enjoy the adventure!

Kara Swanson

Kara Swanson writes stories about fairy tales and fiery souls. She spent her childhood a little like a Lost Girl, running barefoot through lush green jungles which inspired her award-winning Peter Pan retellings, Dust and Shadow.
She is also the cofounder of the Author Conservatory (authorconservatory.com) where she has the honor of teaching young writers to craft sustainable author careers.

You’ll find Kara with her toes in California sand as a SoCal resident, belting Broadway show tunes on weekend drives to Disneyland with her delightfully nerdy husband, or chatting about magic and mayhem on Instagram.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5450/

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 27
By the Book , September 27
Texas Book-aholic, September 28
Live.Love.Read., September 29
Inspired by Fiction, September 30
The Lofty Pages, September 30
Hannahbandanarama, October 1
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 1
Faery Tales Are Real, October 2
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 3
Min Reads and Reviews, October 3
Wishful Endings, October 4
Book Zone Reviews, October 5
Simple Harvest Reads, October 5 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 6
Where Faith and Books Meet, October 7
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 8
Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, October 8
Book Butterfly in Dreamland, October 9
Blogging With Carol, October 10

2 Comments

Book Review - Lightshed by Crystal D. Grant

9/15/2024

0 Comments

Published: September 3, 2024 by Quill and Flame Publishers

ASIN: B0DB3BXTCD

My Review

Their choices will change everything....

I have been looking forward to Lightshed ever since I turned the last page of the first book in The Gateway Trilogy. Crystal D. Grant's characters and worldbuilding caught my attention and I was ready for more...

As hoped, Lightshed proved to be just as good as its predecessor. The worldbuilding was as vivid as ever and I felt like I could almost see it. The magic system is fleshed out even more in this second Gateway Trilogy book as Crystal D. Grant blends it pretty much seamlessly with a Christian perspective.

Lightshed has all of the things that you want to see in a good older-YA fantasy novel. From sword fights to betrayal to sacrifice to budding romance. The characters are also quite good as one can't help but love Seria Gayle and root for Mason to finally discover the truth before it's too late. Key themes of learning to trust God no matter what, doing the right thing even when it is beyond hard, and forgiveness as both good guys and bad guys make mistakes are central to the story.

I sincerely enjoyed reading the middle Gateway Trilogy novel and, just like the last time, I am champing at the bit to dive back into Crystal D. Grant's exciting fictional realm and find out what happens next to Seria, Mason, and the others...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Lightshed by Crystal D. Grant a 4 Bark rating.

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

0 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson (Give.away)

9/14/2024

1 Comment

Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block?
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red
truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.

The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.

Genre: Mystery/Christian Fiction
Release Date: August 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Just how much trouble can one old truck be...?

I am always up for a good cozy mystery from Janice Thompson. They make me laugh and it's fun to try and figure out who did it. That meant I was pretty excited to find out about Tracking Tilly and I had to get my hands on this first Little Red Truck Mystery.

Tracking Tilly was every bit as good as I had hoped and maybe even a little better. The imaginative heroine and her quirky family kept me chuckling all the way through and I loved the smalltown Texas setting. I also loved the antique vehicle thread that made up some important and fun scenes.

The mystery aspect of this first book in The Little Red Truck Mysteries series was exactly what you like to see in a Christian cozy mystery. Janice Thompson did a great job layering the clues and revelations within the story as our heroine learns a thing or two about letting go of past hurts in order to see the possibilities and new beginnings right in front of her.

Tracking Tilly is an entertaining, fun, and enjoyable read from Janice Thompson. I finished it much faster than even I expected and now I am really looking forward to reading more Little Red Truck Mysteries whenever they release....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Janice

Welcome to Mabank, Y’all!

Some stories are written out of a passion for the characters. Others are written out of an idea for a unique and engaging plot. And some—like my new book, Tracking Tilly—are written out of pure love and devotion for a location.

We writers love to set our books in unique places. And because I’m a Texas gal, I usually set my stories in South Texas, often along the Gulf Coast. This time, however, I wanted to take a trek a little farther north, to the town of Mabank Texas.
Don’t know where Mabank is? No worries! It’s right next to Gunbarrel City, which is nestled next to Cedar Creek Reservoir, a gorgeous body of water that provides excellent fishing, boating, and camping. This neck of the woods is known as East Texas territory, and it’s unique from where I live in the Houston area—both in terrain and culture.

My familiarity with this region goes back to the early 1980s, when my mother remarried and moved to a 63-acre ranch with my step-dad. Though I hailed from Texas, I’d never been to this particular region. Turns out, I’d been missing out on a lot! Picture beautiful ranch-lands, perfect for raising horses, cows, goats, and chickens. Now imagine small-town churches, restaurants, and specialty shops. Add to that the beauty of a fabulous lake, one dotted with fishing boats, kayaks, and swimmer. Talk about beautiful. . .and perfect for a book series filled with the unexpected twists and turns found in most cozy mysteries.

Tracking Tilly is the first in a three-book series from Barbour called The Little Red Truck series. I used the ranch as the setting for my main character (RaeLyn Hadley) to live. And boy, does the story ever explore those beautiful Texas backdrops, all through her eyes! Tracking Tilly is set in the springtime, when bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes are in full bloom. I didn’t even have to research to know what those look like!

I loved setting this fun cozy mystery in mama’s hometown, and not just for nostalgic reasons. Sure, a quaint small town and a rustic 63-acre ranch provide the perfect backdrop for a mystery, but even more than that, I loved getting to know RaeLyn and her family. Plunking them down in my mama’s house allowed me to re-visit the location in my own imagination and to envision how RaeLyn would see it.

My mom passed away in 2017 and I rarely get back to Mabank and Gunbarrel City these days. But once I decided to set Tracking Tilly in this area I knew I had to make one more trip. So, I asked a close friend to join me and we made a day trip out of it. Over the river and through the woods, to my mama’s old house we went.

And while we were there, we drove by her church (First Baptist, Mabank). Oh, and we had to stop off at one of her favorite restaurants. Mostly, though, I wanted to see the lake. As I got out of my car at the water’s edge I was flooded with memories of driving over that lake on my way to visit mom when my kids were little. We spent nearly every holiday on that beautiful property.

As you read Tracking Tilly, I hope you find yourself captivated by the setting, but I also hope you see a little of yourself in RaeLyn. She’s an adventurous, inquisitive gal, loaded with zeal for life and a passion for her family. More than anything, I hope you discover a renewed sense of purpose in your own family’s story.

Thanks for reading, y’all!

Janice Thompson

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

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5433

Blog Stops

Lighthouse Academy, September 6
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 7
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 8
Pause for Tales, September 9
Texas Book-aholic, September 9
The Avid Reader, September 10
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , September 11
Locks, Hooks and Books, September 12
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 13
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 14
Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 14
Lily’s Corner, September 15
She Lives To Read, September 15
Devoted To Hope, September 16
Lights in a Dark World, September 16
Book Looks by Lisa, September 17
Labor Not in Vain, September 18
Stories By Gina, September 19 (Author Interview)
Holly’s Book Corner, September 19

1 Comment

Movie Review - God's Not Dead: In God We Trust (Give.away)

9/12/2024

0 Comments

‘God's Not Dead' is the Most
Successful Faith Franchise of All Time

God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust is in theaters
September 12th in association with Great American Pure Flix and Fathom

In a time of profound political, civil, and spiritual turmoil, Reverend David Hill grapples with a crucial question: Does God still have a place in politics? Following the unexpected death of a favored congressional incumbent, David feels compelled to enter the race, challenging the increasing efforts to remove religious influence from public policy. Facing off against state senator Peter Kane, a formidable opponent determined to create greater division by pushing religion out of the public square, David must navigate the treacherous waters of modern politics, where his faith, optimism, and principles are put to the ultimate test. As he confronts adversaries from his past and faces relentless scrutiny, David’s campaign becomes a beacon of hope for many who yearn for spiritual and moral leadership in a divided nation. God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust explores the enduring relevance of faith in public life and the fight to keep religious values at the heart of governance.

This film is more crucial than ever, especially during this election year. Be part of the conversation that’s igniting hearts and minds everywhere. This is more than a movie; it's a movement!

Get your tickets starting September 12th

WEBSITE

TICKETS

My Review

As the tides change it is time to stand up for America....

I've been voting since I turned 18. But I can honestly say that in the nearly 2 decades since then the ever worsening political climate rife with corruption has gotten me discouraged and wondering if there is any hope left for our country. Like pretty much everyone I am well aware of the growing animosity towards faith and Christianity in particular. We are told to put our beliefs in our back pockets and not let it influence how we conduct our business, ourselves, and how we vote. But, not only did this God's Not Dead movie turn that lie right on its head – and a lie it surely is – it also was a good reminder as to why I DO choose to vote.

I found it quite ironic that I watched God's Not Dead: In God We Trust literally right before some of the very tricks used by the 'bad guy' in this film played out in real life right in front of me in the news. As I watched the movie and then real life events unfold I found myself thinking about how important it is to stand up for the truth, for life, for morality, and for our beliefs no matter how strong the opposition is nor how much power they think they have. The title of the film is also a good reminder; He isn't dead and in Him we do trust.

A fun FYI; “In God We Trust” first appeared on the 2¢ coin in 1864 during one of America's darkest times – The Civil War. I have my own 2¢ piece from that year because of just how important that short phrase really is.

For those who wish to know: the film is very well made and is probably one of the best in the franchise. I found myself caught up in the story from start to finish.

Anyway, definitely go out and see God's Not Dead: In God We Trust in theaters. Take your entire family to see it as the message of courage and faith is so important. And, when the time comes in a couple of months do not pass your God given and blood earned right away . Go out and vote. And when you step into that booth pray for God to guide your choices as you prove that God's Not Dead: In God We Trust....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives God's Not Dead: In God We Trust a 5 Bark rating.

(Disclosure: Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.)

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Winter's Maiden by Morgan L. Busse (Give.away)

8/22/2024

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Warrior. Survivor. Daughter of the North.

From the moment she is born, Brighid fights to survive in the wastelands of Nordica as a clanless one. But when a new power arrives offering a trial to join the Nordic warriors, Brighid enters, hoping to rise above her station. Soon she becomes one of their fiercest fighters and joins the war against the south.

Kaeden carries the blood of the ancient Eldaran race in his veins but turns away from his heritage after the death of his parents. Years later, he is called back to his homeland and invited to be a healer for the southern forces. With the help of an old mentor, the power inside of him starts to awaken. However, his life is turned upside down when a mighty warrior of the Nordic forces is captured.

As Kaeden interacts with the enemy, he discovers there is a darkness behind the Nordic Wars, one that is manipulating the people of the north. But who will believe him? And is there a power strong enough to break the hold of this hidden adversary? Or will the world burn in the flames of war?

Genre: Adult Viking Fantasy
Release date: August 6, 2024

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Her story will be epic....

Morgan L. Busse is one of those authors that, regardless of genre, I will pick up and read as soon as I see her name on the cover. Honestly, I didn't even read the back cover blurb for Winter's Maiden, I just got my hands on a copy as soon as I could. When I discovered that it is the start of a new series, The Nordic Wars, I was even more excited than before.

Winter's Maiden proved to be another spellbinding tale from the ever talented pen of Morgan L. Busse. The harsh and dramatic landscapes, the Nordic culture that felt both familiar and fantastical, and the well written characters made this story every bit as delightful to read as I had anticipated.

Over the years I've really come to expect a lot from Morgan L. Busse and her vivid storytelling. No matter the genre, from fantasy to steampunk with a touch of dystopian, she always delivers a story that fully immerses the reader within that particular world and totally invests them in the characters' lives.

There is absolutely nothing to dislike about Winter's Maiden except having to wait what feels like practically forever for the next Nordic Wars book to release....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Winter's Maiden by Morgan L. Busse a 5 Bark rating.

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

More from Morgan

A long time ago when I wrote Daughter of Light (the first book in my Follower of the Word series), I mentioned the Nordic Wars and how it changed people’s perspective on beings with power. It was a side comment to answer my main character’s question, but I was intrigued with the idea and knew someday I wanted to write about it.

Now almost twenty years later, here is that story.

Some questions I’m asked when people realize Winter’s Maiden ties in with Daughter of Light is do they need to read my first series? The answer is no. Winter’s Maiden takes place 400 years before the events in Daughter of Light. It involves a country and culture I never explored in my previous series, not to mention the world looked different back then. However, fans of my first fantasy series will appreciate seeing familiar places, races, and what happened back then to create the world in Daughter of Light.

So, what do new readers have to look forward to? Here are a few: a Viking-Inspired culture with my own twist, a female character who is strong but doesn’t need to prove that, a healer who is built like a berserker but is actually a pacifist, a power that allows a person to see inside the soul of another, battles that don’t read like a historical textbook, and deep questions I’m known to explore in my novels.

In the end, I love that I was able to revisit a world I created over twenty years ago and write a story that’s been on my heart for almost as long. I consider it one of my best books yet and cannot wait for readers to finally get to read Brighid’s story.

Morgan L. Busse

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of multiple series including The Ravenwood Saga and Skyworld series. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and won the INSPY, Selah, and Carol Award for best in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.