The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on September 27, 2023September 26, 2023 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

“The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch” by author Kurt Brouwer is Book Two in his Biblical Fiction Series “The Last Disciple.” Set some fifty years after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, this continues the story of the youngest disciple, John, son of Zebedee. If you have not yet read Book One, you should be able to follow the story without issue.

I appreciate well researched Biblical Fiction that coincides with scripture. This one did and added much more. The author’s perspective of what might have been makes sense. His detailed research shows in the descriptive prose of the people, places, and activities of that era. I was able to put more details of understanding to the Bible verses. Yes, I kept my Bible handy while reading the novel to make certain things were aligned.

In the beginning of this book, John is in deep grief over the death of Mary. From the cross, Jesus had told Mary that John would now be her son and she his mother. They lived as such and worked at spreading the teachings of Jesus.

I had a harder time becoming invested in this book than the last one. There are so many details and names that I felt lost at times and needed to reread a section. All in all it is a good novel. There are two more books to come in this series. I am eagerly awaiting them.

This would make a nice Biblical Fiction reading group choice. I found some things I wanted to discuss with fellow readers. It gets a 4 out of 5 star rating. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch

Author: Kurt Brouwer

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: June 15, 2023

He was the Beloved Disciple…
…and he would be the last.
The burden to tell the whole story now rests on his shoulders.

He was the Beloved Disciple, chosen by Jesus and destined to be the last to carry the divine message. Devastated by the loss of his adopted mother Mary, John has no time to mourn. The streets of Jerusalem teem with danger, as Roman rulers engage in fierce conflict with Jewish rebels, all vying for control.

While his allegiance lies with his people, John is at odds with the rebels’ passion for earthly power. His quest is to preserve and share the legacy of Jesus.

Will he succeed in spreading the gospel?

Or has he waited too long?

As Jerusalem descends into chaos, John escapes to Antioch. He finds rest, renewal, and purpose among the devoted Christians there and begins sharing his account of the life and teachings of Christ.

Yet even within this refuge, the old conflicts descend on Antioch too, and the dangers ignited in Jerusalem draw near.

Set against a backdrop of actual events, The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch is the second novel in a series woven from the Bible and Christian history.

Join John as he embarks on an extraordinary journey, discovering the true essence of faith, love, and divine purpose.

Your heart will embrace The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch because John’s story is the story of our hope and promise.Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kurt Brouwer is a Christian and a member of a vibrant Christian church in Hawaii. He also loves to write.

A few years back, Kurt did a study at his church on the Apostle John. If you’ve ever been obsessed by anything, you’ll understand that Kurt couldn’t stop researching, digging, diving into the life of John and other first century Christians. The result is a series of Christian historical novels.

The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem was published on Amazon in November 2022. It has been in the top five for Inspirational Religious Fiction and Religious Historical Fiction in 2023.

More from Kurt

Right now I’m living in two worlds: writing and researching the first century world of the early Christians while also tackling the technical demands of self-publishing and online book promotion in the 21st century.

LIVING IN TWO DIFFERENT WORLDS

Writing a book and publishing it have become almost polar opposites, at least for me. Research and writing require a focus on history, places, people, and then the work of creating a written narrative that brings all these to life. With my books, I focus on the first century Biblical world of John, the disciple of Christ. So I have to study, imagine, and then describe the life of first century Christians like John, Timothy, Priscilla and many more.

But publishing has to be done in the modern world of software, online apps, book cover graphic design, and navigating sites like Amazon.com. I actually enjoy this, but I definitely find it frustrating too.

GRAPHIC DESIGN FOR BOOK TWO

For example, I had my book cover designer create a graphic I wanted to use as a part of the book detail page on Amazon. But when I go through the step-by-step instructions on Amazon, I get an error message. Eventually, I’ll figure it out, but there’s a steep learning curve in the publishing and promotion side of writing. Here is the design. It may not be on Amazon yet, but you can see it now.

This is the description for book two:

He was the Beloved Disciple…
…and he would be the last.
The burden to tell the whole story now rests on his shoulders.

While his allegiance lies with his people, John is at odds with the rebels’ passion for earthly power. His quest is to preserve and share the legacy of Jesus.

Will he succeed in spreading the gospel?

Or has he waited too long?

As Jerusalem descends into chaos, John escapes to Antioch. He finds rest, renewal, and purpose among the devoted Christians there and begins sharing his account of the life and teachings of Christ.

Yet even within this refuge, the old conflicts descend on Antioch too, and the dangers ignited in Jerusalem draw near.

Set against a backdrop of actual events, The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch is the second novel in a series woven from the Bible and Christian history.

Join John as he embarks on an extraordinary journey, discovering the true essence of faith, love, and divine purpose.

Your heart will embrace The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch because John’s story is the story of our hope and promise.

But now I’m heading back to what I really love, writing and research. I’m about half way through with the first draft of book three in the series. The title will be, The Last Disciple: Exile to Ephesus.

Yours in Christ, Kurt

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 23

Christina’s Corner, September 24

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 25

Texas Book-aholic, September 26

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 27

The Lit Lady, September 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 28

Lights in a Dark World, September 29

Cover Lover Book Review, September 30

Lily’s Book Reviews, October 1

Artistic Nobody, October 2 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, October 2

Connie’s History Classroom, October 3

The Book Club Network, October 4

She Lives To Read, October 5

Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/27fb8/the-last-disciple-escape-to-antioch-celebration-tour-giveaway

Path to Grace Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on September 18, 2023September 17, 2023 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Review:

Path to Grace by talented wordsmith Cheri Swalwell is a Contemporary Women’s Christian novel ripe with life and Christian lessons. This is Book 5 in the author’s The Redemption of Green Pines series. It could be read as a standalone, but the entire series is so amazing, I would encourage the books be read in order.

This is the story of Ariana. She has been the favored daughter and always manages to get her way. When she finds herself in a situation, her father gets irate. This is a new feeling to Ariana, having his anger directed towards her.

Matt is a fledgling Christian, new in his relationship with Christ. He has some past issues he is working on healing. One of those happens to be his mother. Since Ariana reminds him of her, he works to stay away. However, he can see she needs help so he is in a dilemma.

I find myself thinking about this book often even though I have finished it days ago. The author has a way of crafting characters so that they feel real. They are flawed and believable. It took just a few pages to become invested in this book and its group of wonderfully designed characters. There were times that my emotions matched what I read. The father was flat out a bully to his family. Unfortunately, this also happens in real life.

There is so much to love about this thought provoking book. The Christian message is heavily woven throughout the entire novel. Lessons of redemption, hope, forgiveness, grace, and love offer a lot to ponder from this story. I love finding a Christian book and author that blatantly tells about God and His love. Cheri Swalwell is definitely one of those authors and this is one of those books.

I highly recommend this emotionally packed book and series. It would make a lively book club choice. There are so many discussion opportunities. I highly recommend this for lovers of contemporary Christian fiction. It will leave a lasting impression on you. I rate this powerful lifelike story 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Path to Grace

Author: Cheri Swalwell

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction

Release Date: October 20, 2022

Everyone knows that Ariana does not get rejected.

Used to getting her own way, Ariana grew up having her daddy wrapped around her little finger—and he still is. As an adult, she goes through life expecting that all men will give into her whims. When the one man she sets her sights on won’t give her the time of day, Ariana is truly baffled.

Matt avoids Ariana whenever possible. The young woman has no way of knowing that she reminds Matt of his mother and the heartbreaking memories that he worked hard to bury. If Matt has his way, there won’t ever be a reason to discuss the issue.
But when Ariana’s life is turned upside down, and rumors about Matt could destroy everything that he’s worked so hard to achieve, it will take a heavenly amount of grace to prevent history from repeating itself. Will Matt and Ariana accept God’s plan for their lives?

If you like wholesome fiction with a faith-filled message, explore the Path to Grace, the fifth book in the heartwarming Redemption of Green Pines series today. Each book can be read on its own, but they’re best enjoyed when you read them as a full series!Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Cheri Swalwell is a Christ follower who thoroughly enjoys her calling to be a wife, mother, writer, podcaster, and speaker, in that order. Cheri loves to encourage people through her fiction series and many nonfiction books including devotionals, Bible studies, and compilation books. Interested in receiving encouragement 365 days a year right in your inbox? Then the JESUS in the EVERYDAY monthly membership is for you! For a full list of books visit www.cheriswalwell.com. Do you like YouTube? Head to JESUS in the EVERYDAY for 5 to 7 minutes of encouragement weekly.

More from Cheri

Have you ever thought about how different two siblings’ lives could turn out, even though they were raised by the same parents in the same household? Two sisters, one the middle child and one the baby of the family. One always considered “less than,” the other the golden child … until she’s not.

Book 5 in The Redemption of Green Pines series, Path to Grace, shows us what happens when one sister has been favored her whole life, until she falls off the pedestal due to one mistake.

Join the community of Green Pines as life unravels for Ariana. Will her siblings rally around her despite how she treated them her whole life, or will she be left on her own to figure out what to do now?

If you’d like to read the whole story, I’d suggest you start with Book 1, Adventure’s Invitation, but if you’re simply curious about the differences Wynn and Ariana face, I invite you to start with Book 4, Road to Freedom, and get introduced to Wynn and what her life is like living in the same household as Ariana, her baby sister, and Randy, her big brother. I’m pretty sure it’s nothing like you imagined it would be.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 12

Texas Book-aholic, September 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 14

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 15

The Book Club Network, September 16

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 17 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, September 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 19

Bizwings Book Blog, September 20

For Him and My Family, September 21

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, September 22 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, September 22

Cover Lover Book Review, September 23

Pause for Tales, September 24

Susan K. Beatty, Author, September 25 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cheri is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/27de0/path-to-grace-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Amish Mother’s Secret Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on September 14, 2023September 13, 2023 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Amish Mother’s Secret, written by author Diane Carver, is a contemporary Amish novel. This is a poignant tale that mingles Amish and English seamlessly. The result is an emotional story that will give you all of the feels. This is Book One in the author’s new Amish Adoption Series.

This is the tale of Lindsay Prescott. Her daughter, Phoebe, has always wanted a bigger dfamily. It has been difficult being raised as an only child of a single mother. However, her mother has a secret that will change Phoebe’s life. Once the secret is revealed it is an emotional roller coaster for the people involved. There will be hurt, anger, excitement, joy, anxiety, and so much more.

I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. It took only a few pages to become invested in this interesting story and its characters. The characters are all well developed and believable. They had a variety of personalities, emotions, and range of faith. I appreciated the Christian message. It was heavily sprinkled throughout the book.

I recommend this story filled with faith, redemption, healing, forgiveness, family, new beginnings, and romance. Do not be concerned if you aren’t a fan of Amish fiction, because you will find so much more. The author reveals personal information after the story. It really tugged at my heartstrings. This would make for some great discussions in a book club. It will stay with you long after you finish it.

This gets a 4 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. These are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: The Amish Mother’s Secret

Author: Diane Craver

Genre: Amish Romance

Release Date: December 22, 2022

Sometimes a beautiful miracle comes to you at exactly the wrong time…

Lindsay Prescott is 40 and single when tragedy strikes. Diagnosed with stage 4, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer, her instinct is to right the wrongs in her life. Her unfortunate childhood with an alcoholic, verbally abusive mother drove her to break free in desperation at the age of 17. While working at a hotel along the beach on the East Coast, she met Harris Manning. He took her breath away and she gave herself to him in love.

Harris’ life was already planned out for him by his wealthy parents. Falling for Lindsay had been a dream. However, compelled to wed the woman his parents chose for him, he’d left her to endure a shaky marriage.

Though Harris never knew it, Lindsay found herself pregnant when he left her with no way to care for identical triplets on her own. When the triplets were five months old, she reconnected with an Amish couple—Katie and Roman Yoder—who were unable to have children. The Yoders adopted Amy and Jenna while Lindsay kept Phoebe. She couldn’t bear to give all three babies away. In the years that followed, Katie worked hard to keep her away from her adopted daughters.

When you let go of a miracle, can you ever capture it again?

After Harris learns his ex-wife intercepted Lindsay’s calls years ago to tell him she was pregnant, he rushes to her side, thrilled to discover he’s a father. But life rarely gives fairytale endings. Revealing the truth may prove more devastating than the hurdles that came before…and all that will surely come after for a woman fighting for her life.Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Diane Craver is the author of The Amish Mother’s Secret, Book 1 in The Amish Adoption Series and two popular Amish series, Dreams of Plain Daughters and The Bishop’s Daughters. Diane also writes romantic suspense, inspirational contemporary romance, historical Christian fiction and women’s fiction. Her emotional reads receive great reviews. Although she started her career writing non-fiction, she switched to writing fiction. She wanted to keep her sanity in the midst of having a large family. Writing fiction with quirky and memorable characters gave her the escape she needed from her noisy household. Diane met her husband Tom while teaching at an orphanage. They enjoy their life in southwestern Ohio, and have been blessed with six children and several grandchildren. Two adult daughters with Down syndrome live with Tom and Diane. Her family is supportive of her writing career, and her favorite vacation is going to the beach with them. She gives thanks daily to God for her wonderful blessings, including being in remission from Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

More from Diane

When I started writing The Amish Mother’s Secret, a friend had been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I decided to have my main character, Lindsay, to have the same type of cancer. I used many of the details of his illness for my character’s cancer. Then an unbelievable thing happened to me. I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I never expected to have cancer with none in my family history.

It was hard telling our children I was diagnosed with stage four cancer. It was stage four because it was found in many of my lymph nodes throughout my body. I rewrote the details in my manuscript so that my character reflected the type of lymphoma I had. Also, after the six months of chemo, I started two years of maintenance therapy. My oncologist said doing this therapy treatment during remission could reduce the risk of recurrence and improve the cure rate for me.

While doing my months of chemo treatments, I received thoughtful gifts, devotional books, two prayer blankets and cards with wonderful Bible verses from friends and relatives. Feeling God’s love through them helped me to get through a difficult time in my life. I appreciated all the prayers said for me to recover from cancer. I have been blessed with an awesome support group of readers.

During this stressful time, I heard from agent Lesley Sabga of The Seymour Agency. She wanted to represent me and told me how much she loved my voice. I hadn’t been looking for an agent so it was a wonderful blessing to sign with Lesley. I had planned on The Amish Mother’s Secret to be a standalone novel, but Lesley acquired a three-book contract for me with Vinspire Publishing. I enjoyed writing about the two mothers, Lindsay and Katie, in Book One, The Amish Mother’s Secret. Both mothers were from two different worlds, but their love never wavered for their children. The second book in my Amish Adoption series, An Unexpected Gift, continues the adoption theme and is also available for purchase. Book three will release next year.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 9

Texas Book-aholic, September 10

Mary Hake, September 10

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 11 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 12

Connie’s History Classroom, September 13

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 14

Splashes of Joy, September 14

Bizwings Book Blog, September 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 16

The Book Club Network, September 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 18

Vicky Sluiter, September 18

For Him and My Family, September 19

Cover Lover Book Review, September 20

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, September 21

Books I’ve Read, September 22

Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/27a70/the-amish-mother-s-secret-celebration-tour-giveaway

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on September 11, 2023September 11, 2023 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows is a collection of Christian historical Christmas novellas by three exceptionally talented authors, Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller. If you have not read any of these three gifted wordsmiths, you are in for a treat when you crack open this book.

Set in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming, these stories have the common theme of marriage of convenience. All three are entertaining and enjoyable. They are different in their writing styles and storylines, but that is one of the things that I liked about this book.

These stories were so well done that I was immediately engaged in all three of them after just a page or two. Characters were well described and relatable. I was able to learn a thing or two from this collection. That is another thing that I love, gleaning new knowledge just from reading for fun. The Christian message was present and the romance a little fast paced.

I highly recommend Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. It is a delightful read and will leave you wanting to read more from these amazing storytellers. On a nice note,these are connected to other books by the authors, so you may pick up a book series by each author to continue. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but all opinions are my own.

About the Book

Book: Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows – A Marriage of Convenience Anthology

Authors: Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 26, 2023

From bestselling and award winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn’t her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn’t cover stranded women, but he can’t leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren’t convenient at all.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller

Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones’ plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi’s character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.Click here to get your copy!

About the Authors

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over forty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.

USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams is devoted to bringing her readers heartwarming love stories about cowboys and the women that tame them.

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

More from Misty

When Friends Join Forces…Magic Happens!

For me, joining with my good friends Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams resulted in Christmas magic!

Ever since I was young, Christmas stories have held a special place in my heart. The charm and warmth they exude, coupled with the enchantment of the holiday season, are a captivating combination I find irresistible. Can you relate?

I’ve also long been a HUGE fan of Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams. I’ve read so many of their books over and over!

Joining them for this Christmas novella collection has been a dream come true for so many reasons. And not only are these three marriage of convenience stories set on the Rocky Mountain frontier (my favorite place!), each of these novellas is an exciting extension of the current series we’re each writing.

Jody’s novella is the finale to her Colorado Cowgirls series. We meet both the hero and heroine of this Christmas story back in book 4. You don’t have to have read Jody’s series to fall in love with them here though!

Lacy’s novella tells the story of a character from a new mail order bride series she has coming soon. This prelude is a fantastic taste that will have you swooning as you eagerly await the rest of the books!

My own contribution features Two Stones, the Coulter family’s best friend from the Brothers of Sapphire Mountain Ranch series. I love having the chance to tell his story, even though he’s not ‘officially’ one of the brothers. 

If you’ve read any of these series—or if you just love Christmas books like I do!—you’ll definitely want to read the novellas in Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. It’s our collective holiday gift to you, the readers—intertwining familiar settings and characters with the joy and love that the festive season brings. We hope these tales bring you the same warmth and joy we’ve felt while penning them.

Blessings!

Misty

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 6

Alena Mentink, September 6

Texas Book-aholic, September 7

Mary Hake, September 7

By the Book, September 8

She Lives To Read, September 8

Vicky Sluiter, September 9

Melissa’s Bookshelf, September 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 11

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 12

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 13 (Author Interview)

Connie’s History Classroom, September 14

Blossoms and Blessings, September 15

Britt Reads Fiction, September 15

For Him and My Family, September 16

Labor Not in Vain, September 16

Holly’s Book Corner, September 17

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 17

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 18

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, September 18

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Misty, Jody, and Lacy are giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/28138/christmas-bells-and-wedding-vows-celebration-tour-giveaway

Darwin Finds Freedom Book Review

Posted on September 9, 2023September 6, 2023 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

About the Book

Forced to flee for his life, Darwin searches for the Free Mice from Grandfather’s stories. But will they accept a scaredy-mouse like him? Darwin’s journey to find the Free Mice from Grandfather’s stories introduces him to mountain animals who teach him about the King of all Creatures and what bravery really means!

My Review

Darwin Finds Freedom is a delightful Christian children’s book by author NicoleLisa Schrader. It is beautifully illustrated by HC Ward. Children will love the vivid pictures that go along with the story.

This is the story of Darwin, a deer mouse, who happens to be a very scared one, too. His tale of finding freedom from fear and faith in the “King of all Creatures” is exceptionally penned accompanied with the most endearing pictures. Children ages 4-8 are sure to adore this book and glean the priceless message of trusting Jesus over their fears and gaining freedom.

Along his journey, Darwin encounters various animals and birds. Their conversations are quaint and thought provoking for young ones. Kids will easily become engaged with the characters and this wonderful story. I have no doubt with all of the animals it will become one of their favorites.

After the story are some discussion questions. These are followed by photos of each animal or bird that was in the story. Each picture is accompanied by some facts on that real life creature. Children love learning about animals and will delight in this.

There is so much to like about this fabulous book. I enjoyed the story with all of the additional characters. The Christian message was greatly appreciated. It is a wonderful way to plant seeds of faith in the kiddos’ minds. With the questions and facts at the end, it allows for parents to dig deeper with their children during reading time. Plus, the author even asks for suggestions for a sequel.

I highly recommend this book. It would be perfect for a Church to use in junior church, a library, or their Sunday School. This is a great book for any gift need, birthday, Christmas, or just because.

My rating: 5 out of 5 stars – Fantastic Book!

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publishers. My comments are an independent and honest review.

Ready to buy your own copy? Click here.

About the Author: NicoleLisa Schrader

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Nicole Lisa Schrader loves reading to and writing for children. She is a retired homeschool mother of three and currently lives in central Florida with her husband. Nicole actively encourages mothers of young children online, in homeschool groups, churches, and in her community. For more about Nicole, visit www.nicolelisamaria.com.

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Enter your email address for a chance to win one of ten copies of Darwin Finds Freedom.By entering your email address, you agree to let the author subscribe you to her website/blog. You may unsubscribe at any time.

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Coming Home to Truth Celebrate Lit Book Review and Giveaway

Posted on September 7, 2023September 6, 2023 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Coming Home to Truth is a Christian historical romance fiction by author Michelle De Bruin. This is the story of Lacy Jones. She has just graduated from high school and yearns for freedom. It is also the story of Conrad Van Drunen. He has spent the last four years raising his children and building furniture. Both are great characters.

I enjoyed the author’s style of writing and was immediately invested in Lacy and her story, Conrad’s, as well. Their characters were well crafted and believable. Most of the others were also likable, but one in particular was rather irritating. The conversations and various situations that happened appeared authentic for early 1900s Iowa. Through the deft pen of author De Bruin, I felt swept away to that time and place.

This book has so many beautiful life lessons to ponder. There is an uplifting inspirational message of trusting God. Sprinkled throughout the book are illustrations of faith, hope, peace, grace and love. The story shows that while family members mean well, they do not always know what is truly best for another member, that people are often put in our lives for a reason by God, and that your first impression is not always correct. Most of all, it maintains that trusting God and keeping your faith is essential.

I recommend this to lovers of Christian historical romance fiction. It has a nice romance and side stories. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars. A complimentary copy was provided from Celebrate Lit, but these opinions are my own.

About the Book

Book: Coming Home to Truth

Author: Michelle De Bruin

Genre: Inspirational Historical Fiction

Release Date: June 20, 2022

In a search for her future, Lacy Jones travels with a friend to a new town where a single dad shows her how to find meaning and lasting success.

Lacy Jones, a graduate of her small high school, knows her whole world is about to change. She dreams of freedom from the struggles with her health, and of the independence that comes with a steady job. When her friend invites her to share the journey to visit the teacher from their country school days, Lacy finally gets the chance to chase her dreams. But when the girls get separated along the way, Lacy is left to make the trip alone. Arriving in a strange town, Lacy is reunited with old friends who introduce her to a new life, new relationships, and a new way of seeing herself.

Conrad Van Drunen has spent the last four years developing his furniture business and raising his two children. He knows they need a mother, but he isn’t ready to talk of remarriage. When Lacy Jones falls across his path, Conrad is forced to make some changes. His brother and sister-in-law offer their assistance from babysitting and financial counsel to matchmaking, but Conrad has other plans. Losing hope of finding what he lost with his first wife, Conrad discovers the mother he’s been seeking for his children in the most unexpected place.

Journey with Lacy and Conrad through trials and joys where deception and the truth can sometimes look an awfully lot alike.Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Michelle De Bruin lives in Iowa with her husband of 25 years and two young adult sons who are college students at Iowa State. She has a bachelor’s degree in religion with a Christian Ministry emphasis, and in Music. Michelle serves as a chaplain for Pella Regional Health Center. She writes inspirational historical romance about people who live in rural communities. Characters that bring to life the delights of farm and small-town living, whispers of Dutch heritage, and Christian faith make Michelle’s stories distinct. A romantic at heart, Michelle is always on the lookout for glimpses of God’s love through the window of a good story. You can learn more about Michelle by visiting her website: michelledebruin.com

More from Michelle

Coming Home to Truth is the second in a trilogy of books set in a small Iowa town during the years 1913 through 1918. This is the second series of books I have written. The Tomorrow series is the first set, and if you’ve already read it, you will recognize characters that appeared in Hope for Tomorrow, Promise for Tomorrow, and Dreaming of Tomorrow.

This book is a delightful story of Conrad, a single dad, and Lacy, a young lady searching for a place to belong. Conrad would like to find a mother for his two school-age children but feels that the risks are just too high. Lacy wants to prove that she can support herself and can use her talents in photography to establish a new career.

In this story, Lacy’s friends see her differently than she sees herself. It causes her to take a second look at her life to decide what is true and what isn’t. This book takes us on a journey with Lacy and Conrad through trials and joys where deception and the truth can sometimes look an awfully lot alike.

Thank you for joining me on this tour. I hope you enjoy the blog posts and enter the drawing for the giveaway. Follow me on social media and subscribe to my newsletter at https://michelledebruin.com/.

Grace and peace,

Michelle De Bruin