Blog Archives

https://promosimple.com/ps/186c0/high-wire-heartbreak-celebration-tour-giveaway

In 1936–A party at the Ringling mansion Ca d’Zan in
Sarasota, Florida, leads to a robbery–and possibly death.

A successful historical mystery writer, Chloe Whitfield comes to Ca’ d’Zan to research her next novel. Chloe’s fascination with the circus is rooted in family stories of her great-grandmother Lucinda Conroy, who reportedly was a trapeze artist of some renown. She’s heard hints of scandal—and perhaps larceny, but no details.

Chloe’s grandmother—rumored to be Lucinda’s only offspring—was raised in an orphanage and never knew her mother. Intrigued as she is, Chloe has no intent of writing about Lucinda until she sees a poster featuring Lucinda as the star performer for a 70th birthday gala for John Ringling in May of 1936. From there the trail goes cold.

Who was Lucinda and what happened to her?

Genre: Christian/Romance/History
Release date: January 1, 2022

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Can past secrets be the answers to the future?

The name of Ringling is synonymous with the circus and has been for decades. Even my own homestate has felt the touch of the Ringling family's hand with a now nearly non-existent town named for 'Mr. John'. Even though I never got to see them perform one can't help but feel the magic. Even if I wasn't already a Doors To The Past fan I still would have wanted to read High-Wire Heartbreak as soon as I saw the fascinating setting. I also love museums so this time-slip novel from Anna Schmidt was a double win in that arena.

I think my favorite thing about High-Wire Heartbreak is the setting. The detail to which Anna Schmidt went for both the historical and present threads was exquisite and Ca’ d’Zan pretty much became a character unto itself. As a museum lover who has been to Florida but not to Sarasota, it was almost like getting to explore the mansion myself.

This sixth book in the Doors To The Past series was an enjoyable for sure. It had a slightly different feel than the previous books in some ways and I appreciated that the author brought her own style to this series of time-slip mysteries. In case you wondered, each of the books can be read standalone and in any order you choose.

Surprisingly my favorite characters in High-Wire Heartbreak were the contemporary ones and I loved the insight into what the research and writing process can entail for a fictional historical fiction author. Anna Schmidt did a good job with her characters and her story and a marvelous job with the setting. You'll definitely want to add this book to your Doors To The Past collection...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives High-Wire Heartbreak by Anna Schmidt a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Anna

It’s hard to split time living between Wisconsin and Sarasota Florida and NOT get caught up in the circus world! The Ringlings are icons in Sarasota where a LOT of things are named for them! But the five circus brothers got their start right here in Wisconsin. So, when the opportunity to create a story for DOORS TO THE PAST came my way, it was pretty much a no-brainer that I would go with John and Mable Ringling’s incredible home, Ca ‘d Zan as the setting. Then somehow, I stumbled on this picture:

and I knew she was my character of Lucinda, the trapeze artist whose story would drive my novel. I hope you fall in love with her—and Chloe—as I did, and most of all I hope you’ll be in touch to let me know what you thought at http://booksbyanna.com.

HAPPY READING and all best wishes, Anna

Anna Schmidt

Anna Schmidt is the author of over twenty works of fiction. Among her many honors, Anna is the recipient of Romantic Times’ Reviewer’s Choice Award and a finalist for the RITA award for romantic fiction. She enjoys gardening and collecting seashells at her winter home in Florida.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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

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

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 25
Remembrancy, January 25
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, January 25 (Author Interview)
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 26
For the Love of Literature, January 26
Where Faith and Books Meet, January 26
Genesis 5020, January 27
Texas Book-aholic, January 27
Inklings and notions, January 28
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 28
Rachael’s Inkwell, January 28
Austen’s Angle: Jane Austen’s Influence in Modern America, January 29
For Him and My Family, January 29
Rebecca Tews, January 29
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 30
deb’s Book Review, January 30
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 31
Wishful Endings, January 31
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 31
Bizwings Blog, February 1
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 1
Book Butterfly in Dreamland, February 1
Older & Smarter?, February 2
Connie’s History Classroom, February 2
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 3 (Spotlight)
Bigreadersite, February 3
Blogging with Carol, February 3
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 4
Life of Literature, February 4
Stephanie’s Life of Determination, February 4
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 5
Joannabair, February 5
Blossoms and Blessings, February 6
Pause for Tales, February 6
Labor Not in Vain, February 6
Splashes of Joy, February 7
Through the Fire Blogs, February 7

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Book Review - Life Flight by Lynette Eason

1/29/2022

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Life Flight
Extreme Measures book 1
by Lynette Eason

-From Goodreads-

EMS helicopter pilot Penny Carlton is used to high stress situations, but being forced to land on a mountain in a raging storm with a critical patient--and a serial killer on the loose--tests her skills and her nerve to the limit. She survives with FBI Special Agent Holt Satterfield's help. But she's not out of the woods yet.

In the ensuing days, Penny finds herself under attack. And when news reaches Holt that he may not have gotten his man after all, it will take all he and Penny have to catch a killer--before he catches one of them.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lynette Eason is back with another high-octane tale of close calls, narrow escapes, and the fight to bring a nefarious criminal to justice.

ISBN-13: 9780800737337

She saves lives, but can he save hers?

I started Life Flight expecting the usual but boy was I in for a surprise! There were so many switches on switches that I was kept guessing and enjoying every minute of trying to sort who was who and what they'd done. Seriously, the series title, Extreme Measures, is the perfect fit for this book!

In the past some of Lynette Eason's series have been hit or miss for me, but, after reading this first book I can say that Extreme Measures is definitely in the 'hit' category. Life Flight landed on all the high points of romantic suspense and kept the danger and intrigue pounding right up until the very end.

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Lynette Eason

One of my favorite part of this book was the female pilot angle, which is something you don't see all that often in fiction. I always enjoy reading stories where one or both the hero and heroine have a different or interesting career. EMS helicopter pilot was a great choice on Lynette Eason's part. I also particularly liked how Penny and Holt seem to take turns saving each other's lives. They are both pretty capable of defending themselves and kicking some bad guy backside when the need arises, which is actually quite often.

Whether you are a Lynette Eason fan or just love Christian romantic suspense Life Flight is one book to add to your TBR stack, shelf, pile, room, whatever you happen to have. It was a great start to the Extreme Measures series, a series, I might add, that promises to make for some good reading...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Life Flight by Lynette Eason a 4 Bark rating.

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E-Book Review - Never Pursue A Prince by Regina Scott

1/28/2022

Genre:
Historical Romance / Regency

Never Pursue A Prince
Fortune's Brides: The Wedding Vow book 1
by Regina Scott

-From Goodreads-

Lady Larissa, oldest daughter of the Duke of Wey, has one goal: find suitable husbands for her two younger sisters and best friend so they may live happily ever after. Despite their attempts at matchmaking for her, she’s all but given up on finding her own groom, a gentleman good enough to meet her late mother’s and grandmother’s expectations. She has a hard enough time meeting those expectations for poise, propriety, and perfection. But a chance encounter brings the most marvelous gentleman to her attention. A shame he is merely a captain of the Imperial Guard of Batavaria and in no way the suitable husband for the daughter of a duke.

Prince Otto Leopold Augustus of Batavaria has one goal: to win back his country from those who ousted his family. But someone seems intent on stopping him, for danger stalks the corridors of their palace in England. So why not trade places with his identical twin brother, the leader of the Imperial Guard? Leo might just uncover their enemies before someone is hurt. And having an ally in the thoroughly proper and pretty duke’s daughter can only help.

The more Larissa and Leo are thrown together, the more secrets come to light and the more their attraction grows. Would the daughter of a duke dare to throw off propriety, if it means winning the heart of the most princely of men?

If you like warm, witty historical romances, with a touch of intrigue, then you’ll love this series starter by an award-winning author.

ASIN: ‎ B09LK5ZY71

Her prince charming may not be who she expects...

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Regina Scott

Ooh! I was so excited when I found out it wasn't the end and little furry Miss Fortune would be back in Fortune's Brides: The Wedding Vow, an all new series from one of my favorite Regency era fiction authors, Regina Scott. And, of course, it was even better to finally get to read Never Pursue A Prince!

I knew I would love Never Pursue A Prince even before I started but I was also curious if Lady Larissa would finally grow on me. I didn't exactly care for her prissiness and desire for utter perfection before, but, I knew that if anyone could make me change my mind about her it would be Regina Scott. As anticipated, the author did just that in this first book in the Fortune's Brides: The Wedding Vow series. With Larissa and Leo I didn't stand a chance of staying ambivalent to any bit of their story.

Never Pursue A Prince was every bit as charming, witty, and delightful as I had hoped. Regina Scott had me chuckling just as much as trying to guess who was behind the mayhem stalking the Batavarian court in London. I enjoyed every page and was kept thoroughly entertained from start to finish. Now I am just going to be waiting very impatiently for the second Fortune's Brides: The Wedding Vow novel...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Never Pursue A Prince by Regina Scott a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Queen Of The Rockies by Angela Breidenbach (Review, Guest Post, Giveaway)

1/27/2022

https://promosimple.com/ps/17c5b/queen-of-the-rockies-celebration-tour-giveaway

What will her courage cost?

1889 (Helena, MT): As the gold rush era ends in the most elegant and modern city in the world and Montana emerges as a state, one woman must decide if social pressure will prevail over her own beliefs. Calista Blythe enters the first Miss Snowflake Pageant celebrating Montana at Christmastime to expose the plight of street urchins. But hiding an orphan could unravel Calista’s reputation, and her budding romance with pageant organizer, Albert Shanahan, if her secret is revealed. Will love or social pressure prevail? Courage is choosing to do the right thing regardless of the cost… Romantic, comedic adventure set in picturesque Helena, Montana written by a bestselling author who is also a professional genealogist

Genre: Historical Romance
Release date: September 1, 2021

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Will he understand her secret...?

There are few things that annoy me as a museum archives volunteer than reading a book set in the state I grew up in and finding that its rich history has been mangled. That is something that I never have to worry about with Angela Breidenbach, her genealogist training and desire for accuracy shine through. That, is one of the reasons that I picked up this first book in her Queen Of The Rockies series. As expected, Queen Of The Rockies (the book) did not disappoint.

A fairly short read, at less than 200 pages, Queen Of The Rockies was adorable and interesting in equal measure. As much as I fell in love with Calista's little visitor I also enjoyed reading about the real people and places of Helena the year of its statehood. I have to admit that though I really liked the first heroine and hero in Angela Breidenbach's Queen Of The Rockies series, it was really the orphans who won my heart. They are loyal and look out for each other but are also rather funny little scamps as well.

If you are interested in Montana history or enjoy historical romance, and particularly if you like both, the Queen Of The Rockies series from Angela Breidenbach might be a good addition to your want-to-read list. Just make sure you start with Queen Of The Rockies and off you'll go on an adventure in the past...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Queen Of The Rockies by Angela Breidenbach a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Angela

Queen of the Rockies captured my imagination and my interest in the originality of Montana’s entrance into the United States of America. The people of Montana are quite varied, a true but much unknown fact. People here come from around the world, completely different genealogical origins as well as backgrounds. The influence of gold mining, transportation, and entrepreneurship as well as the exploration of the wild and beautiful lands inspired amazing creativity for both survival and communities.

From completely uncivilized mining camps to stunning old world know-how of the native peoples to about 100 different immigrant nations brought Montana to statehood. Today, many of those descendants still are here farming, mining, doing business. Many of those languages are still spoken. We have immigrant populations that have continued to come. So though Montana is thought to be nearly all white Americans, that’s not anywhere close to the real Montana. Don’t believe everything you see on TV 😉 Come see for yourself.

Vibrant wildlife, dangers of the wilderness and weather, and the opportunity partnered with intensely hard-working conditions created more millionaires in one place than had ever been before. But that didn’t mean everyone knew how to handle that new wealth. Vigilantes, including a sheriff who robbed those he was supposed to protect, ran the ranges for years. The women who brought civilization tamed the men who couldn’t quite keep themselves under control. It’s these incredible women who braved the elements and the hardships that are the stars in my books. Come and meet them. They continue to inspire me today!

Touring and researching through Montana and especially the three original capitals (finally ending up with Helena) fascinated me. There’s so much to do year-round here. I enjoyed it so much that I wrote short travel articles at the back of each book for my readers. I really hope those articles will intrigue people to come and visit the ghost towns, living history towns, hot springs, mountains, and small cities. Each book in this 6-book series will share something special that may not be well-known but will be unforgettable for you as a tourist.
I hope the stories are fun, full of historic entertainment and romance, but also that you’ll have a fresh view of Montana that fires you up to come and visit our beautiful state.

Please remember to pop over to my website and send me a note through the contact page if you’d like an autographed bookplate for all of your copies of the Queen of the Rockies series. If you’re an eBook fan, I’ve heard of the brilliant idea to keep an album of your favorite authors bookplates. I’d be happy to send you those for an album as well.

Best wishes,
Angela Breidenbach

Angela Breidenbach

Angela Breidenbach is a professional genealogist, media personality, bestselling author, and screenwriter. She’s also the Christian Authors Network president. Angie lives in Montana with her hubby and Muse, a trained fe-lion, who shakes hands, rolls over, and jumps through a hoop. Surprisingly, Angie can also. Don’t miss her show and podcast, Genealogy Publishing Coach! Find her on social media: @AngBreidenbach

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Angela is giving away the grand prize of
a 20-minute genealogy consultation to a winner via Zoom!!

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

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, January 17
Austen’s Angle: Jane Austen’s Influence in Modern America, January 17
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 18
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 19
Joanna Bair Author, January 19
Texas Book-aholic, January 20
Betti Mace, January 20
Inklings and notions, January 21
Connect in Fiction, January 21
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 22
For Him and My Family, January 22
deb’s Book Review, January 23
Blossoms and Blessings, January 23
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 24
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 25
Pause for Tales, January 25
Connie’s History Classroom, January 26
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 27
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 27 (Spotlight)
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, January 28
Stephanie’s Life of Determination, January 28
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 29
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 30
Mary Hake, January 30

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Crown Of The Warrior King by Henry O. Arnold (Interview, Guest Post, Giveaway)

1/26/2022

3 Comments

The desire of Israel…
the first to wear the crown is the warrior king.

For decades the nation of Israel had no rest from her enemies. The people cried out, “Give us a king to lead us, to go out before us, to fight our battles.” And Yahweh hears the cries of the chosen. He plucks a king out of the tribe of Benjamin, the smallest of the tribes—Saul, son of a herdsman. The prophet Samuel anoints him as Israel’s first warrior king.

Under the banner of the wolf, the symbol of his tribe, Saul rises to prominence, winning the hearts and minds of the people of Israel with his success on the battlefield and benevolent leadership.

But when the nation of Israel cries out, “For the love of Israel. For the glory of Yahweh. For the honor of the king,” the praises of the people turn the humble heart of the warrior king into one filled with pride—a pride that has fatal consequences.

In this tale of triumph and tribulation, deepest love and burning rivalries, the new epoch is given a voice…and it is a Song of Prophets and Kings

Genre: Biblical Fiction
Release date: December 1, 2021

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Henry O. Arnold

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
The stories in the Bible have always fascinated me ever since I was a kid. As I grew older and begin to move into acting and writing as a profession, I found that the ancient stories and the characters were as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. So, forty years ago when I was in-between acting gigs, I began writing a one-man show on the apostle Paul. The following years I wrote two more one-man shows on Jesus and David. The language was contemporary and I wore modern clothes, no bathrobes. In creating these theatrical pieces and performing them all over the country, I saw how these stories and characters connected with audiences in a way I never expected.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
In a way, this series was years in the making. As a follower of Christ and an avid reader of Scripture, I have always been dreaming of how I might tell these familiar stories of the great prophets and kings of ancient Israel in such a way that would bring them to life in a unique way to a modern audience. But when I actually sat down and began the process of writing was in 2013. I would write in-between acting gigs and other writing responsibilities. It took about three years to complete the first three volumes of the series. I am currently working on volume 4. I will complete the series in volume 5.

#3. Do you have favorite character(s) in this book?
I would have to say Shira, Samuel’s wife and Ahinoam, Saul’s wife. I had to create them out of whole cloth. Samuel’s wife is never mentioned in Scripture, yet we know he had two sons. Ahinoam is listed as Saul’s wife, but that is it. Because this series fall into historical fiction and specifically biblical fiction, I felt the freedom to create multi-dimensional characters that you would find in any work of fiction. While faithful to the cultural norms of ancient Israel, I believe I have written these two female characters in such a way that will resonate with modern women.
I hold the same opinion for Samuel and Saul in this second volume of the series Crown of the Warrior King as well. They are fully human, and I believe, exciting to watch as their characters unfold in the story.

#4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
A deeper understanding of who these people might have been, the struggles they had with making the choices and the results of the choices they made. Those of us who walk in faith and believe in the relevance and authority of Scripture as God’s word want to be able to relate and understand to so many of the characters in the Bible. If we see ourselves in these people we see our common humanity and our need for God.

#5. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Ephesians 2:10.

One of the ways I interpret this verse is that I, as is anyone else, am uniquely created by God in His image, and that what work I get to do in life is also unique to my calling and the talents/gifts which He has given me. And God knew in advance (which in and of itself is a wonderful mystery to ponder) and prepared these works for me to do. This brings me joy, and I believe, joy to the Father.

More from Henry

After the golden age of theatre in the Greek and Roman times, the theatre went dark, very dark as in Dark Ages, and for centuries it was thus. But it was the church that brought the theatre back to life by staging passion plays on biblical subjects. Since most people could not read at the time, it was a great way to tell the folks some Bible stories. The world has certainly improved its literacy skills since then. The delight I have in reading and writing stories from the Bible or on biblical themes has been with me for a long time.

When I formulated the concept of retelling the stories of the first three kings of Israel and matching them with the leading prophets of that age, the title of the series, The Song of Prophets and Kings, was a perfect match for the biblical/historical fiction genre. The first volume in this series, A Voice Within the Flame, was released last year and features the life of the prophet Samuel up to and including the anointing and coronation of Saul as the first king of Israel. Now it is time for the second volume, Crown of the Warrior King. This second novel picks up where the last one left off.

Whether the reader or listener is familiar with the biblical stories or not, I have written these novels in such a way that makes these ancient stories come to life in the modern world. When the reader/listener dives into stories that are 3,000 years old, it will be surprising how we all can see ourselves in these characters.

These are biblical stories that I grew up with and have read and studied all my life. It is a joy to get to share them with you in this series, The Song of Prophets and Kings.

Henry O. Arnold

Henry O. Arnold has co-authored a work of fiction, Hometown Favorite, with Bill Barton, and nonfiction, KABUL24, with Ben Pearson. He also co-wrote and produced with Steve Taylor (director) and Ben Pearson the film The Second Chance starring Michael W. Smith, the screenplay for the authorized film documentary on evangelist Billy Graham, God’s Ambassador, and the documentary film KABUL24, based on the book which is the story of western and Afghani hostages held captive by the Taliban for 105 days. He lives on a farm in Tennessee with his lovely wife Kay. They have two beautiful daughters married to two handsome men with three above-average grandchildren. For more information please visit: www.henryoarnold.com

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate his tour, Henry is giving away the grand prize package of
a signed copy of the book and a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/17c58/crown-of-the-warrior-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 13
Texas Book-aholic, January 14
Beauty in the Binding, January 15 (Author Interview)
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 15
For Him and My Family, January 16
Inklings and notions, January 17
deb’s Book Review, January 18
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 19
Splashes of Joy, January 20 (Author Interview)
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 21
Connie’s History Classroom, January 22
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 23 (Author Interview)
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 24 (Spotlight)
Cats in the cradle blog, January 25
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 26 (Author Interview)
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, January 26

3 Comments

Monday Movie - January 24th, 2022 (Carefree)

1/24/2022

Carefree
starring
Fred Astaire ■ Ginger Rogers

(1938)

Together Again!

Dr. Tony Flagg's friend, Steven, has problems in the relationship with his fiancee, Amanda, so he persuades her to visit Dr. Flagg. After some minor misunderstandings, she falls in love with Dr. Flagg. When he tries to use hypnosis to strengthen her feelings for Steven, things get complicated

I have no idea why it's taken me so long to do Carefree as a Monday Movie, it is, after all, my favorite Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers movie. They did 10 movies together and they are all good in their own way, but, this one of is my favorite. Maybe it has something to do with the scene featuring a hypnotized Ginger, a billy club, and a plate glass window...

As the title implies there is nothing serious about this movie. It's a lighthearted feel-good story that's sole purpose is to amuse and entertain. And, boy, does it! From Fred's wild ride on a runaway bicycle, to the strangest dream-inducing meal in movie history, and on to Ginger's rampage that leaves a skeet shooting party cowering in terror, you're in for a real load of fun.

One fun fact about the film is that of the ten movies Fred & Ginger did together this is the only one where Fred isn't in show business of some kind. Yes, it is kinda funny thinking of Fred Astaire as a psychiatrist! One other interesting thing is that the final release doesn't feature very many dance scenes between Fred and Ginger, only four, though one of them is a fairly extended dream sequence brought on by one gastronomically terrorizing supper.

There's nothing to really worry about your kids seeing in Carefree, it's just all-around classic 1930s black/white good fun. It is all of the best in screwball romantic comedy from an era that knew how to do the genre up right...

1 hour 23 minutes

Principal Cast

Fred Astaire...Tony Flagg
Ginger Rogers...Amanda Cooper
Ralph Bellamy...Stephen Arden
Luella Gear...Aunt Cora
Jack Carson...Connors
Clarence Kolb...Judge Travers
Franklin Pangborn...Roland Hunter
Walter Kingsford...Dr. Powers
Kay Sutton...Miss Adams

Quotes

Tony Flagg: Say, Steve, when I went to Switzerland you never drank like this. How long have you been tight?
Stephen Arden: Three days: Yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Tony Flagg: And all because this Amanda What's-Her-Name broke her engagement to you?
Stephen Arden: Yeah, for the third time.
Tony Flagg: What happened the other two times?
Stephen Arden: I got stiff.
Connors: I hope she changes her mind before you get DTs.

Tony Flagg: There's a Miss Cooper waiting for me. She's another one of those dizzy, silly, maladjusted females who can't make up her mind. I'll probably find out she hasn't got one.

Tony Flagg: Well, you do know that you have two minds: The conscious and the subconscious.
Amanda Cooper: Really?
Tony Flagg: The conscious mind is the ego. That's the thing that says, "I am I, and you are you."
Amanda Cooper: Mine never said that.

Tony Flagg: I wish you'd please understand that I'm only trying to help you find yourself.
Amanda Cooper: Well, if I ever get lost, I'll call on you

Aunt Cora: It seems silly to keep it a secret. He said he wanted to psychoanalyze you on your bicycle.
Amanda Cooper: Oh, so that's why we came.
Aunt Cora: I wouldn't mind being analyzed by him on my bicycle. Or on anything, come to think of it.

WATCH ON DVD

Affiliate links used.

Thanks to IMDB.com for most of the info for this movie.

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Book Review - Sunrise by Susan May Warren

1/24/2022

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Sunrise
Sky King Ranch book 1
by Susan May Warren

-From Goodreads-

Pilot Dodge Kingston has always been the heir to Sky King Ranch. But after a terrible family fight, he left to become a pararescue jumper. A decade later, he's headed home to the destiny that awaits him.

That's not all that's waiting for Dodge. His childhood best friend and former flame, Echo Yazzie, is a true Alaskan--a homesteader, dogsledder, and research guide for the DNR. Most of all, she's living a life Dodge knows could get her killed. One of these days she's going to get lost in the woods again, and his worst fear is that he won't be there to find her.

When one of Echo's fellow researchers goes missing, Echo sets out to find her, despite a blizzard, a rogue grizzly haunting the woods, and the biting cold. Plus, there's more than just the regular dangers of the Alaskan forests stalking her . . .

Will Dodge be able to find her in time? And if he does, is there still room for him in her heart?

Sunrise is the first explosive volume in a new nail-biting series from USA Today bestselling author Susan May Warren

ISBN-13: 9780800739829

The skies & snows of Alaska just turned deadly...

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Susan May Warren

What a wonderful start to another great series from Susan May Warren. I've been lamenting the end of the Global Search And Rescue series for quite awhile now so you can easily imagine my excitement upon learning of the Sky King Ranch series and even more so when I got my hot little hands on a copy of Sunrise.

I just have to start off by gushing a little about the cover. Not only does it have a beautiful and intriguing image but the title is holo! First time I've ever noticed anything like it on a Christian fiction book cover.

OK, onto other things... As expected, Sunrise was full of danger, suspense, intrigue, romance, and the emotional angst that is so very much a part of Susan May Warren's usual style. This first book in the Sky King Ranch series was a totally riveting with lots of close calls in the air and on the ground. It was a strong start to the series and had me hooked for sure.

I particularly loved the inclusion of dogsledding, an Alaskan staple, in the story. There is truly nothing like the experience of driving a happy and excited dog team through the snow!

At any rate, I truly enjoyed reading Sunrise and I can't wait for the release of the next Sky King Ranch book. This one was great and I can easily recommend it to any fan of romantic suspense or Susan May Warren. It's a good one!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Sunrise by Susan May Warren a 4.5 Bark rating.

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First Line Friday - January 21st, 2022

1/21/2022

Buy

E-Book

Includes affiliate links.

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Reading Challenge: 12 Books Recommended by 12 Readers - January

1/21/2022

January

It's time to reveal my first of book for this reading challenge. It was recommended to me by Lela.
I am still looking for recommendations so comment below!

2 Comments

Movie Review - Redeeming Love

1/20/2022

Based on the bestselling novel by Francine Rivers, REDEEMING LOVE is a powerful story of relentless love and perseverance as a young couple’s relationship clashes with the harsh realities of the California Gold Rush of 1850.

Angel expects only pain from those around her. Sold into prostitution as a child, Angel survives with hatred towards herself and the men that use her. She meets Michael Hosea, a farmer who believes God wants Angel to be his wife. Dire circumstances force Angel to accept his proposal, but when Michael defies her bitter expectations, her wounded heart begins to mend.

As Angel encounters a love unlike anything she ever experienced, feelings of unworthiness and shame cause her to run from a life she doesn’t think she deserves. As Michael sets out to find her, Angel discovers there is no brokenness that love can’t heal.

Go see Redeeming Love in theaters starting January 21st!

Website

Tickets

My Review

I'm sitting here now a few hours after watching the film version of a book that I read nearly 20 years ago as a teenager. Just as it was two decades ago, my mind is full and I can't help but think the enormity of what I just saw on the screen. I've thought of Redeeming Love many times over the years, parts of the story and the emotional response I had to them were hard to forget. As a teen I wrestled with what I had read on the printed page as my perceptions were rocked then precisely as they have been again by the same story.

There was, and once again is, much more to this retelling of the Biblical account of Hosea than I could even begin unpack in a single review that isn't the size of a book itself. I'll be honest, Redeeming Love isn't easy to watch, it's not a light-hearted fluff piece in any way, shape or form. The story shines light on some of the darkest parts of humanity: child and adult sex trafficking, abuse, murder, emotional manipulation and coercion, suicide, betrayal in every way possible, and things even darker yet. It was hard to read and watch just how evil people can be to other people. But with great darkness comes the chance of great light and God is in the business of hope and redemption. I really don't care to descend into empty platitudes but of the messages in Redeeming Love one of the strongest is the value of every human life to God and that no matter what we have done or what has been done to us He can take every bit of our brokenness and make something new and beautiful. No one is out of His reach or beyond His love.

As to the film itself, it was well done technically speaking. The scenery was gorgeous and the costuming wasn't bad at all. I particularly appreciated the range of facial expressions on the lead actress's face, they really set the emotional tone for many of the scenes. The thing that impressed me the most was how well they stuck to the original story. Of course, there were changes because this is film, but the overall points and spirit of the book were very well represented.

I will be blunt here with a couple of cautionary notes. This is not a movie for children, the very nature of the story should be obvious why, and my personal recommendation would only be for much older teens and their parents. There is some violence and language, though nothing severe in comparison to many TV shows, but the sexual content is quite significant. Which brings me to my second caution, there is some content that sensitized people may find upsetting.

There are reasons why many people will list Redeeming Love as their favorite novel, it's an emotional story that rends and shatters the heart before putting it back together with the message that is in its very title. This film is one of the rarities that lives up to the book upon which it is based and it brings the story to life in a completely different way.

One thing that I would like to say in closing is that Christian movies have come a long way over the years and this is one of a new generation of films. To reach a new audience of jaded movie-goers they are edgier than ever before and are even more hard-hitting. In addition to everything I've already talked about Redeeming Love also raises awareness of human (sex) trafficking. There is more human trafficking now in the 21st century than any time in history. For those of us safe and untouched in our homes, films and books like Redeeming Love convict and demand that we ask ourselves what can we do, and more importantly will we, like Michael Hosea in the story, go to the lengths that God may ask of us?

(Disclosure: Many thanks to Universal for providing a sample of the product for this
review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.)

#RedeemingLoveMovieMIN #RedeemingLoveMovie #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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E-Book Review - Buried Cold Case Secrets by Sami A. Abrams

1/20/2022

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Buried Cold Case Secrets
Deputies Of Anderson County book 1
(Love Inspired Suspense)
by Sami A. Abrams

-From Goodreads-

Recovering her missing memories
could be the key to solving a murder

Searching for her best friend’s remains could help forensic anthropologist Melanie Hutton regain her memories of when they were both kidnapped—unless the killer gets to Melanie first. For her safety, Melanie must rely on Detective Jason Cooper, who still blames her for his sister’s death. Can Jason set the past aside to solve the cold-case murder…and shield Melanie from the same fate?

ISBN-13: 9781335554789

Can he get past the anger to save her life?

I was right! I was right! I stuck with my first instinct and I was right! The killer was.......you didn't think I would actually tell you, I hope. No, you'll just have to read Buried Cold Case Secrets for yourself to find out the answers to this chilling Love Inspired Suspense debut from Sami A. Abrams.

If I didn't already enjoy Love Inspired Suspense novels I would have wanted to read Buried Cold Case Secrets anyway. As soon as I saw that cover with its contrast between bright and dark, you could just sense the drama and danger within the pages.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Sami A. Abrams

While not something I could ever train for, forensics and forensic anthropology have long fascinated me. Sami A. Abrams did a great job satisfying that somewhat morbid fascination through her heroine's occupation.

As debut novels go, Buried Cold Case Secrets was an excellent one! I couldn't really tell that Sami A. Abram's hasn't been publishing with Love Inspired Suspense for years. Yes, I did guess the villain, probably from having read too many Agatha Christie's as a teenager, but the author tossed in enough surprises and tension-filled moments to keep things from getting even the teensiest bit dull.

I would have no hesitation recommending Buried Cold Case Secrets to any Love Inspired Suspense fan. It was everything I've come to expect from the line and I am really looking forward to reading more from Sami A. Abrams in the future...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Buried Cold Case Secrets by Sami A. Abrams a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Now That I Know You by Olivia Newport (Review, Guest Post, Giveaway)

1/19/2022

https://promosimple.com/ps/193c0/now-that-i-know-you-celebration-tour-giveaway

Cate Butler is the distant cousin genealogist Jillian was so certain she wanted to find—and the only connection she has to her deceased mother’s Parisi family tree. So why does she wish Cate would stop pestering her? And why can’t Jillian find a paper trail proving Cate is who she says she is?

Cate wants something for her own career that Jillian can’t give, but she also holds the key to family history Jillian can’t bring herself to walk away from. Nolan, Jillian’s father, steps in when Cate’s chronic career chaos requires legal rescue. Drew, the man who holds Jillian’s heart, has a surprising past with Cate. The truths Jillian, Cate, and Drew find while untangling these knotted threads tie them back together in remarkable ways none of them ever would have imagined.

Now That I Know You is Book 5 in the Tree of Life series, exploring and celebrating unforgettable family stories in Canyon Mines, the mountain town that invites you back again and again

Genre: Split-Time Contemporary/Historical
Release date: Fall, 2021

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Some family tree branches need a little shaking...

Genealogy is something that has fascinated me since I was young child reading our family history books at my great grandma's house. Those books were put together by various family members, none of them professionals, and sometimes those long dead ancestors seemed more alive than the living distant relatives that I'd never met. Hence the reason I have been so caught up in the Tree Of Life series from Olivia Newport, of which Now That I Know You is the fifth book.

Continuing on with the Tree Of Life series tradition of bringing historical events to life and making those events real to readers through the fictional lives of its characters, Now That I Know You takes on the difficulties of early turn of the century coal mine workers struggles for better pay and working conditions, as well as the freedom to do business outside of the company and to choose their own doctors. Though the characters in this story are fictional they do represent the realities faced by real people a hundred years ago and it seriously made me pause to think about how insulated we are from the harsh conditions that were endured to bring the comforts and fairness we now take for granted.

One of the things I really enjoyed about this book was way Olivia Newport tied it in so well to the previous books. Key events and characters make an appearance and there are some surprising connections for Jillian to uncover.

Now That I Know You was good read about the messiness of life and family. Our Tree Of Life can often be the most important thing in our lives and the source of our biggest heartaches. Olivia Newport did a great job with this book and I sincerely hope there will be more coming from Jillian, Nolan, Drew, and the rest of Canyon Mines...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Now That I Know You by Olivia Newport a 4 Bark rating.

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

More from Olivia

I’ve wanted to write Now That I Know You for nearly 20 years—at least the historical story part of this split-time novel.

When my son was a freshman in high school, he joined the mock trial team, and my husband and I entered the league of parents who watched versions of the same competition over and over. The state bar association selects a case and provides every team with the same documents to study as the basis of preparing both prosecution and defense. Team members play roles of attorneys and witnesses.

That first year, the case was trying a particular individual in connection with his role in events that culminated in the 1914 “Ludlow Massacre,” which is featured in Now That I Know You. My son played a witness for the prosecution. My proudest moment was when one of the scoring judges—who are actual court judges—singled him out for his skill in recognizing and dodging the opposing counsel’s interrogation strategy. Somebody hold me in my chair, because you really are not supposed to jump and cheer at mock trial!

Since I heard the case several times, the history wormed its way into my heart and mind. The injustice and tragedy of the story weighed heavy, but so did the legacy of the events and their eventual impact on history that affects us even today. People often ask where book ideas come from. Sometimes they germinate inside me for a long time before the moment is ripe to put them on the page in the lives of characters who have grown around them. This is one of those stories.

—Olivia Newport

Olivia Newport

Olivia Newport’s novels blend the truth of how our pasts carry us into where we find ourselves now. Curiosity about history seems to creep into everything she does. Her books include Amish, historical, and contemporary stories that span the centuries from before the Revolutionary War right up to the present moment.
She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of Pikes Peak. Visit www.olivianewport.com.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Olivia is giving away the grand prize package of
a signed set of all 5 books in the Tree of Life series!!

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, January 10
Bigreadersite, January 10
lakesidelivingsite, January 11
Daysong Reflections, January 11
All-of-kind Mom, January 11
The Write Escape, January 12
Lots of Helpers, January 12
The Sacred Line, January 13
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 13
Betti Mace, January 14
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14
Texas Book-aholic, January 15
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 15
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 16
Splashes of Joy, January 16
deb’s Book Review, January 17
Through the Fire Blogs, January 17
Sodbuster Living, January 18
For Him and My Family, January 18
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 19
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 19
For the Love of Literature, January 20
The Book Club Network, January 20
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 21 (Spotlight)
Blogging With Carol, January 21
Mary Hake, January 21
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, January 22
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 22
Inklings and notions, January 23
Connect in Fiction, January 23

2 Comments

Book Review - Amish Christmas Escape by Dana R. Lynn

1/17/2022

1 Comment

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Amish Christmas Escape
Amish Country Justice book 12
(Love Inspired Suspense)
by Dana R. Lynn

-From Goodreads-

Hiding in Amish country
may not be enough to save her…

In a killer’s sights after she witnesses her sister’s murder, Christy O’Malley’s only option is to flee to Amish country—and the estranged husband she left behind. But there’s something Sam Burkholder doesn’t know—they have a daughter. With enemies closing in, Sam will do anything to protect Christy and their little girl…but can he forgive the past for a chance to be a family for Christmas?

ISBN-13: 9781335554697

Murder and family shouldn't have to mix...

Wow, Amish Country Justice just seems to be getting better and better! And that's saying something considering Amish Christmas Escape is the twelfth book in the series! But, then again, what else would I expect from the ever talented Dana R. Lynn? She has never failed in the romantic suspense department yet and I highly doubt it would ever be a possibility.

I've been curious about the youngest Burkholder brother for a couple of books now. It always seemed to me that he had a few secrets he wasn't talking about. And, yep, I was right! But then, Sam didn't even know some of those secrets himself!

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Dana R. Lynn

I really enjoyed Amish Christmas Escape, there were so many twists and turns and surprises that Dana R. Lynn sure kept me guessing. As with the previous Amish Country Justice books this one featured danger and drama and action and chilling adventure from start to finish. There was no letup for Sam and Christy – or for readers – and I liked every bit of it. This is one holiday romantic suspense novel you won't want to miss!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Amish Christmas Escape by Dana R. Lynn a 4.5 Bark rating

1 Comment

Help Me Choose.....2022 Reading Challenge

1/16/2022