Promised Land Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on February 1, 2020January 31, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Promised Land by best selling author Robert Whitlow is a Christian legal suspense fiction that is the second book in his Chosen People Series. I have not read book one (yet!) and had no trouble following this riveting novel. It is breathtaking!

Set in both the Middle East and the United States, the author has penned a well researched, organized, and extremely well written story. It is inspirational, faith filled, and full of timely life lessons.

The characters are realistic and engaging. I was immediately invested in their stories. Newlyweds Hana and Daub are a lovely couple. The supporting characters are wonderfully believable, also. Dialog flows easily and sounds realistic.

This book is a page turning delight. There is mystery, adventure, intrigue, and stolen artifacts. It had my interest piqued and I thought about this realistic book long after I finished it. One of the things I loved was not having to search for God in the story. He was up front!

I highly recommend it. Plan on spending a lot of time with this book because because it is hard to put down. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: Promise Land

Author: Robert Whitlow

Genre: Christian Fiction, Suspense, Legal Drama

Release Date: January 14, 2020

With historical mysteries, religious intrigue, and political danger, Promised Land asks one momentous question: what if your calling puts you—and your family—in the crosshairs?

Despite their Israeli citizenship, Hana and Daud cannot safely return to their homeland because a dangerous terrorist ring is threatening Daud. Hana is perfectly fine remaining in the United States, working for a law firm in Atlanta, especially when she learns she’s pregnant. But Daud can’t shake the draw to return home to Israel, even if it makes him a walking target.

Hana is helping her boss plan a huge Middle East summit in Atlanta when Jakob Brodsky, her old friend and former co-litigator, asks for her help with a current case. His client is attempting to recover ancient artifacts stolen from his Jewish great-grandfather by a Soviet colonel at the end of World War II. Because the case crosses several national borders, he knows he needs Hana’s knowledge and skill to get to the bottom of what happened to these precious artifacts.

Meanwhile, Daud is called in to help a US intelligence agency extract a Ukrainian doctor from a dangerous situation in Egypt. While overseas, he can’t resist the call of Jerusalem and thus sets off a series of events that puts thousands of people in danger, including his wife and unborn child.

Bestselling author Robert Whitlow explores the meaning of family and home—and how faith forms the identity of both—in this breathtaking follow-up to Chosen People.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Robert Whitlow is the bestselling author of legal novels set in the South and winner of the Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. He received his JD with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. Website: www.robertwhitlow.com; Twitter: @whitlowwriter; Facebook: robertwhitlowbooks

Read an Excerpt

Click here to read an excerpt of the book.

Blog Stops

Genesis 5020, January 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 27

Inklings and notions, January 28

deb’s Book Review, January 28

Texas Book-aholic, January 29

For Him and My Family, January 30

CarpeDiem, January 30

Christian bookaholic, January 31

Mary Hake, January 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 2

Blogging With Carol, February 2

Daysong Reflections, February 3

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, February 3

For the Love of Literature, February 4

Betti Mace, February 5

Hallie Reads, February 5

By The Book, February 6

SPLASHES of Joy, February 7

Bigreadersite, February 7

Pause for Tales, February 8

Emily Yager, February 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 9

Lone Star Ranger Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on January 29, 2020January 28, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Lone Star Ranger by author Renae Brumbaugh Green is a Christian Historical Romance. This beautifully written book has so much to offer. I found inspirational lessons, mystery, adventure, romance, and at times humor.

New to me author Renae Green has an easy to read style. I was immediately invested in the story and lives of the characters. Dialog was plentiful and sounded authentic. It flowed without a hitch. The descriptive text took me away to 1877 Texas and kept me there until the story ended.

Elizabeth Covington is a strong woman and dedicated sister. She trusted God but had trouble turning things completely over to Him. Rett Smith is a Texas Ranger and is convinced her brother, Evan, is a multi-murderer. Rett arrests Evan and Elizabeth rushes to prove her brother’s innocence. Sparks fly between Rett and Elizabeth which turn this novel into a page-turner.

The story has surprise after surprise. Life lessons as well as lessons of faith and trust in God are expertly woven throughout this well written tale. I definitely recommend this. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating. Celebrate Lit provided a copy but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: Lone Star Ranger

Author: Renae Brumbaugh Green

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: January 21, 2020

Elizabeth Covington will get her man.

And she has just a week to prove her brother isn’t the murderer Texas Ranger Rett Smith accuses him of being. She’ll show the good-looking lawman he’s wrong, even if it means setting out on a risky race across Texas to catch the real killer.

Rett doesn’t want to convict an innocent man. But he can’t let the Boston beauty sway his senses to set a guilty man free. When Elizabeth follows him on a dangerous trek, the Ranger vows to keep her safe. But who will protect him from the woman whose conviction and courage leave him doubting everything—even his heart?

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Renae Brumbaugh Green is a city-girl-turned-country-diva. She’s married to a handsome country boy named Rick, and she’s mom to four nearly-perfect, nearly-grown children, two rowdy dogs, and some ducks. They live in rural Texas where Renae wears overalls, western boots, and bubblegum pink nail polish. She’s a bestselling author of over 30 books, an award-winning humor columnist, and an online English teacher. In her free time, she can be found leaping tall buildings and rescuing kittens from trees. Or, she’d like to do those things, if she had free time.

More from Renae

I’ve been a fan of historical romance from the moment I graduated from The Babysitter’s Club. A friend of mind introduced me to the Love Comes Softly series by Janette Oke, and I was hooked. In college, between exams and extracurricular stuff, I read those books like they were M&Ms. That’s why, when I started writing grown-up fiction, I knew historical was my genre.

But there’s another reason—perhaps a more compelling reason—why I had to write The Texas Rangers series. See, my granddaddy was a Texas Ranger. Not the baseball player kind. The gun-toting, cowboy-hat-and-badge-wearing kind. As far as I know, he was not a master of any kinds of martial arts, so if you’re a fan of Walker, Texas Ranger, I’m sorry to disappoint.

And he was not alive during the late 1800s, as are the characters are in this series. Grandaddy died in 1980 when I was 12 years old. He was a good man, known for rescuing puppies and bringing small gifts and toys to children in stressful situations—i.e. when their parents were arrested. My favorite memory of him is sitting on his lap, falling asleep to the sound of his big, round pocket watch ticking. I have a picture of myself, age three, sitting on his knee while he typed up his reports. I love that typewriter picture, and find it significant since I’m now a writer.

Grandaddy was Robert Everett Smith, and Grandmother (yes, I called her that—she was very formal, but also very sweet) was Ellie Marie (Edgar) Smith. The two lead characters in Lone Star Ranger are named Rett (Everett) and Elizabeth, in their honor.

Like Grandmother, Elizabeth is refined and formal, yet strong headed, with her own lady-like brand of spunk. She hails from Boston, and is a little overwhelmed at the grit and gravel of Texas lawmen. But she’s not intimidated—not even by handsome Texas Ranger Rett Smith.

Thanks so much for sharing in my cherished family memories. I hope you enjoy the story as much as I enjoyed writing it!

—Renae Brumbaugh Green

Blog Stops

Among the Reads, January 21

Pause for Tales, January 21

Reading Is My SuperPower, January 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 22

Inklings and notions, January 23

For Him and My Family, January 24

deb’s Book Review, January 24

Texas Book-aholic, January 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 26

Becka Jimenez, January 26

For the Love of Literature, January 27

Connie’s History Classroom, January 28

Through the Fire Blogs, January 29

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 29

Betti Mace, January 30

Wishful Endings, January 30

Maureen’s Musings, January 31

Older & Smarter?, January 31

The Christian Fiction Girl, February 1

Spoken from the Heart, February 1

Blossoms and Blessings, February 2

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, February 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 3

Hallie Reads, February 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Renae 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/f4a3/lone-star-ranger-celebration-tour-giveaway

Climbing into Eternity Celebrate Lit Book Tour & Giveaway

Posted on January 28, 2020January 2, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

The first time she went to Hell and years later she went to Heaven. Obviously she returned to her human body both times.

I am unsure how to review this book. My beliefs and what I have been taught are that when you are unsaved and die, that is the end. You have no chance of redemption after that and cannot go to Heaven. The author tells a very different story.

The God-glorifying and inspirational parts of the book are wonderful. The author has listed many things that are worthy of repeating. She stresses that we should always praise and thank God despite what our circumstances might be. God wants to heal us of all the addictions we suffer from and will help us receive freedom when we truly ask for His help. She reminds us of God’s everlasting love, patience, and kindness.

This book is a perplexing one for me. I found so much good in it, but I had so many questions on it. Honestly I am not equipped to answer them. Maybe only Jesus is. If you want to read this book I would suggest you do it prayerfully. A few things did not seem right to me in my soul, but this was not my experience. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: Climbing into Eternity

Author: Michele Pulford

Genre: Non-Fiction

Release Date: April 2018

“I died twice and came back to tell about it.”

Michele flirted with death for six years, trying to numb her pain following a sexual pervert’s attack. Attempting to protect herself, she allowed hatred of men to control her, and used mind control to manipulate others. Suffering with acute anorexia nervosa, she was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital at age twenty-three.

She woke up in hell, a place of eternal damnation, horror, torment, and fire. Rescued by the Savior whose soft, gentle voice she had rejected, Michele was given a new chance at life and turned wholeheartedly to the Lord.

When her body was completely paralyzed from an anaphylactic allergy attack as a young mother, she found life leaving her body once again. “This time,” she says, “I was ushered into the splendorous glory of Heaven—a place of almost indescribable light and love.”

Sent back to tell her story, Michele Pulford warns others of the horrors of the kingdom of darkness, and tells them of the glory of true abundant life in God’s kingdom of light.

This personal love story, as well as a story about death and eternal life, is both a warning and a promise, and ultimately an unforgettable account of the love of God that would not let a young woman go.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Michele Pulford trained and worked as a fashion designer and textile lecturer from 1982 to 2009. After attending evening Bible school, she was further trained at MES Aksie, an evangelical missions ministry, before doing missionary outreach and relationship building among the locals in the Maghadighadi Pans of Botswana from 1990 to 1996. A marketplace intercessor and teacher on prayer, she makes her home with her husband Charles in South Africa. Their family consists of a son Cyle-jay, his wife Natasha, and grandson, Asher Ethan; and a daughter Brontii-ann.

More from Michele

After a sexual pervert’s attack at ten years of age, I invited evil into my life. I became an embittered, hateful teenager consumed by acute anorexia with murderous hate towards men. This led me into an abusive marriage of two years which ended with a failed murder attempt. Due to my failure I landed up DOA at my local hospital from premeditated suicide. On dying, I was taken to the evil and fiery demon invested accusing, tormenting pit of hell. It was here where the miraculous Light and Life of Jesus ripped through and rescued me.

I began my new life with my best friend, the Holy Spirit. Miraculously I married my high school sweetheart. The miraculous continued when after being declared completely barren, God’s love and grace stepped in resulting with me giving birth to a son and a daughter. Our family joy was shadowed by my soul-destroying bulimic addiction which God’s grace eventually set me free from. The life-death challenges did not end there. I found myself in an intense battle with witchdoctors as well with the dangers of onset anaphylactic attacks. It was one of these attacks that found me dying once again, with my husband and doctor watching. This time I was taken to the gates of heaven and glory. This is my story of life and death, heaven and hell, blessing and cursing.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 23

janicesbookreviews, January 24

Simple Harvest Reads, January 25 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 27

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 28

A Baker’s Perspective, January 29 (Author Interview)

Spoken from the Heart, January 30

Inklings and notions, January 31

My Devotional Thoughts, February 1 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, February 2 (Guest Review from Kelsey Barela)

For Him and My Family, February 3

For the Love of Literature, February 4 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, February 5

Giveaway

To celebrate her the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and ‘signed’ copy of Climbing Into Eternity, My Descent In Hell and Flight To Heaven!!

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/f52d/climbing-into-eternity-celebration-tour-giveaway

Legion by Shadia Hrichi Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on January 26, 2020January 25, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Legion, Rediscovering the God Who Rescues Me by author Shadia Hrichi is a Bible Study that explores the demoniacs story in the Gospel of Mark. Demoniac is a new term for me. We always just said demons, but this word is more accurate. It means “of, like, or characteristics of a demon.”

This is my first experience with a study by author Hrichi. Her study was well researched, easy to understand, organized, and well planned. It is written for six weeks with instructions to spend at least 15 minutes per lesson. The lessons are so captivating that 15 minutes would leave me hungry for more. I spent much more time on each lessons because I wanted the knowledge.

You will learn so much from this exquisitely written study. The author brings the Bible to life with her writing. She shares her testimony and other personal things with readers. She has a beautiful style of teaching.

There were many tough questions that the author asked, asks us to ponder, and then gave her answers. This is not a light study but one that will remain with readers long after finishing it. I urge you to try it, whether alone or in a group.

I highly recommend this enlightening Bible Study. Whether you are just beginning to study the Bible or have for years, you will glean things from this. There are benefits for both individual and group study. Small groups would love this. It receives a 5 out of 5 stars from me.

About the Book

Book: Legion

Author: Shadia Hrichi

Genre: Bible Study

Release Date: Oct 8, 2019

How far will Jesus go to rescue one lost soul?

Tormented, chained, and living in a graveyard, the man known only by the name of the demons that tormented him had no one to help him–no one to intercede for him. No one but Jesus. Climb into the boat with Jesus as He heads into enemy territory. Witness Jesus’s power and passion as He battles violent storms and armies of demons in order to rescue . . . one . . . lost . . . soul.

Through this six-week, action-packed Bible study, you will experience God’s relentless love as you celebrate the impassioned Savior Who moved heaven and earth to rescue you.

Click here for your copy!

About the Author

“SHADIA HRICHI is a passionate Bible teacher, author, and speaker who has a heart for seeing lives transformed by the power of God’s Word. She has received a master’s in biblical and theological studies from Western Seminary as well as master’s in criminal justice from the State University of New York. In addition to LEGION, Shadia is the author of several Bible studies, including HAGAR and Worthy of Love. Shadia is often invited to speak at churches, conferences, and other events. Her insightful, witty, yet vulnerable teaching style reveals a compassion for the hurting, love for Jesus, and uncompromising commitment to the truth of God’s Word. Visit shadiahrichi.com.

More from Shadia

If there is one universal truth, it is that every human heart longs for paradise. A perfect world without death, pain, or sorrow. A world at peace, where each of us is secure, treasured, and loved. But the reality is that the world as we know it will never deliver; it cannot. Scripture tells us that “the whole world lies in the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19).

As a result, you and I live in a broken world. A world that has been drifting off course ever since that slippery serpent enticed our first parents to reject God’s authority in that garden paradise so long ago. In that moment, they unwittingly handed over dominion of the earth to Satan on a silver platter. But this then begs the question. Why was God willing to risk rebellion in the Garden? And why would God allow His perfect creation to fall victim to the enemy’s schemes? And if God is good, why does He allow evil to exist?

Through this six-week study, you and I will explore the answers to these questions and more as we step into the fascinating story of the man known only by the name of the demons that tormented him. To be honest, I don’t know why I am attracted to the hard stories in the Bible. The messy stories. I suspect it stems, in part, from my own broken past. I can relate much easier to the broken people. The ones who experienced times when they felt unseen, or unloved, or unwanted. At the same time, their stories captivate my heart because when God reveals what He is doing behind the seen, His power and glory are displayed in ways that make my spirit soar!

So I invite you to come with me as we climb into the boat with Jesus and head into enemy territory. We will witness Jesus’s power and passion as He battles violent storms and armies of demons in order to rescue . . . one . . . lost . . . soul. Tormented, chained, and living in a graveyard, the man had no one to help him. No one to intercede for him. No one but Jesus. As a result:

A demoniac becomes a disciple.
A house of demons becomes a dwelling for the Living God.
The chained becomes a champion of good news.

You and I live in a world crying out for rescue. And just as Jesus was willing to cross the sea and rescue one man from the enemy’s chains, He crossed the heavens to rescue you and me from a fate even worse: eternal chains. But praise God that through His sacrifice for sin, Jesus conquered all the forces of evil and opened up the gates of paradise to all who embrace His mercy. So come with me. Let’s rediscover the God Who Rescues Me!

“For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son.” —Colossians 1:13 NASB

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, January 21

Robin’s Nest, January 21

Genesis 5020, January 22

Older & Smarter?, January 23

For the Love of Books, January 24

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 24

Texas Book-aholic, January 25

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 26

janicesbookreviews, January 27

Quiet Workings, January 27

Inklings and notions, January 28

Aryn the Libraryan 📚, January 29

Godly Book Reviews, January 29

Through the Lens of Scripture, January 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 31

Lights in a Dark World, February 1

D’S QUILTS AND BOOKS, February 1

Pause for Tales, February 2

Emily Yager, February 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Shadia is giving away the grand prize package of 1 book of Legion, 1 book of Hagar and a $50 gift certificate to two winners each!!

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/f4a5/legion-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Thief of Lanwyn Manor Celebrate Lit Book Tour

Posted on January 22, 2020January 19, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

The Thief of Lanwyn Manor by author Sarah E. Ladd is a Regency Romance novel. Set in Cornwall, England in 1818 this book is captivating from the very beginning. I was immediately engaged and could not put this page-turner down.

Author Ladd is an exemplary Christian novelist. She weaves faith and life lessons beautifully through the tapestry of her story. This book was well researched, well planned, and organized. I learned more about mining. It is nice to be entertained, educated, and inspired when reading a book.

The characters are certainly just that….characters. They have quirks and lovable points. Julia Twethewey is the darling of this book. She is strong, sassy, and smart. Brothers Isaac and Matthew make for two completely opposite competing leading men. The secondary characters are also well done.

I found mystery, intrigue, romance, as well as drama in this well written fiction piece. The author took me to a place and time away from my own and made it come alive. I felt like I was there and wanted to offer advice to my new friend, Julia.

Expect some twists and turns as the author throws in a few surprises. The book is really enjoyable and I definitely recommend it. The inspirational message sticks with you long after finishing the book. It would make a perfect book club selection. I gladly rate it 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: The Thief of Lanwyn Manor

Author: Sarah E. Ladd

Genre: Regency Romance

Release Date: January 7, 2020

In this sweet Regency romance, Julia knows Matthew Blake, copper mine owner and very eligible bachelor, is the gentleman she should set her eyes upon. But why can’t she steal her gaze away from his younger brother, Isaac?

Cornwall, England 1818—Julia Twethewey needs a diversion to mend her broken heart, so when her cousin invites her to Lanwyn Manor, Julia eagerly accepts. Lanwyn Manor is at the heart of Cornwall’s mining industry, and as a guest Julia is swept into its intricate world. It’s not long, though, before she realizes something dark lurks in the home’s ancient halls.

As a respected mine owner’s younger son, Isaac Blake is determined to keep his late father’s legacy alive through the family business, despite his brother’s careless attitude. In order to save their livelihood—and the livelihood of those around them—the brothers approach the master of Lanwyn Manor with plans to bolster the floundering local industry. Isaac can’t deny his attraction to the man’s charming niece, but his brother has made his intentions to court the lovely guest clear. And Isaac knows his place.

When tragedy strikes, mysteries arise, and items go missing, Julia and Isaac find they are pulled together in a swirl of strange circumstances, but despite their own best efforts to bow to social expectations, their hearts aren’t so keen to surrender.

Click here to buy your copy.

About the Author

Sarah E. Ladd received the 2011 Genesis Award in historical romance for The Heiress of Winterwood. She is a graduate of Ball State University and has more than ten years of marketing experience. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing family and spunky golden retriever. Visit her online at SarahLadd.com; Facebook: SarahLaddAuthor; Twitter: @SarahLaddAuthor.

Read an Excerpt

Click here to read an excerpt from the book.

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 13

Genesis 5020, January 13

A Baker’s Perspective, January 13

For Him and My Family, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14

Inklings and notions, January 14

Bigreadersite, January 15

For the Love of Literature, January 15

Texas Book-aholic, January 15

Through the Fire Blogs, January 16

Pause for Tales, January 16

Wishful Endings, January 16

deb’s Book Review, January 16

Betti Mace, January 17

KarenSueHadley, January 17

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, January 17

Robin’s Nest, January 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 18

The Christian Fiction Girl, January 19

Remembrancy, January 19

Books, Life, and Christ, January 19

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, January 20

My Devotional Thoughts, January 20

Hallie Reads, January 20

Blogging With Carol, January 20

Kat’s Corner Books, January 21

Life of Literature, January 21

Danielle Lozada, January 21

She Lives to Read, January 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 22

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 22

By The Book, January 23

Blossoms and Blessings, January 23

SPLASHES of Joy, January 23

My Precious Bits and Musings, January 24

Mary Hake, January 24

Back Porch Reads, January 24

Daysong Reflections, January 24

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 25

Mamma Loves Books, January 25

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 25

Hookmeinabook, January 26

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, January 26

Simple Harvest Reads, January 26 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Freedom from the Mountain Wind Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on January 21, 2020January 18, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Freedom in the Mountain Win, Book 1 in Call of the Rockies Series by author Misty M. Beller is wonderful Christian Historical Romance Fiction. Set in 1830 it begins with the tale of Susanna Wilkins and her father trekking across the wilderness in the same places as famous explorers Lewis and Clark. Many guides have left them to fare for themselves.

Susanna is determined to see the adventure through for her father. His health is rapidly declining as lung cancer overtakes his body. Beaver Tail crosses their path and comes to their aid. He is a rugged, strong, compassionate man. All of the characters are realistic, well rounded, and capable of surviving in the wilderness.

Author Beller has such a imaginative way with words that she can whisk readers out of their chairs and into the wilds. The sights, sounds, and thrills are realistically depicted in her words. This author is an extremely talented wordsmith! I was invested at the very beginning and enjoyed every twist and turn of this page turning book.

One of my favorite things about Author Beller’s book is that faith and God are not hidden. She boldly puts them out in the open so no interpretation is necessary. Life lessons on faith, hope, trust, love, forgiveness and second Chances are woven into this moving novel.

I highly recommend this fabulous story. It is captivating and will take your breath away in parts. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars and eagerly await Book 2.

About the Book

Book: Freedom in the Mountain Wind

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: January 14, 2020

The last epic journey before her life changes forever.

Susanna Wilkins will do anything to make her father’s final dream come true, including trek along the path Lewis and Clark explored into the untamed wilds of the Rocky Mountains. Every mile is more crucial now that lung cancer is stealing Pa’s last days faster than she can come to terms with losing him. The journey becomes harder than she ever expected, but paddling upriver through fierce rapids and fighting hungry grizzlies isn’t what terrifies her the most.

Beaver Tail endured more than he can stand from the women in his Blackfoot camp, but the last disaster gave him the final shove he needed to join this band of brothers searching for one of their group who’s gone missing. The last thing he expected was to find a white woman and her sick father stranded at the base of massive waterfall. His plan is to help them carry their oversize canoe and supplies, then leave them to their strange mission. Yet, the more he learns about the pair, the more he realizes his life is about to be derailed—again.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and adventure so intense, lives will never be the same.

Click here for your copy.

About the Author

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.

She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and children now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

God has placed a desire in Misty’s heart to combine her love for Christian fiction and the simpler ranch life, writing historical novels that display God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

More from Misty

When God Directs a Google Search…

I’m a history lover, but you may have guessed that since I write historical romance stories. 😊 Most of my books are set in the Rocky Mountains during the mid-1800s, but as I began brainstorming ideas for this new series, my heart became drawn earlier to the earlier part of the century—a time period with which I wasn’t quite as familiar with the history.

I love when God orchestrates even the most mundane part of our lives, including Google searches! During one particular search (I can’t even remember what I was originally looking for), I stumbled across part of a journal entry from the Lewis and Clark expedition, which trekked across Montana during the time period I was looking into. I’d forgotten that expedition had even entered the territory that would later become Montana, but now I was fascinated.

After finding an audiobook of the abridged journals of Lewis and Clark, I happily listened to almost 19 hours of fascinating stories from the Corp of Exploration’s journey up the Missouri River and across the mountains to the Pacific Ocean, then back mostly the over the same path they’d come. The stories the men told were so amazing, and the detail of their trials so absorbing, I’ve actually re-listened to the audiobook twice! Many of the true tales wouldn’t be believable in fiction, but as I listened, my mind formed the premise for Freedom in the Mountain Wind: a father/daughter duo who sets out almost two decades after Lewis and Clark’s journey, determined to retrace the steps of that famous expedition.

I hope you enjoy this story as much as I loved writing it! And whether you’re a history lover or not, I pray that you too will be touched by this “epic journey through breathless landscapes and adventure so intense, lives will never be the same.”

Blog Stops

Simple Harvest Reads, January 15 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Daysong Reflections, January 15

My Devotional Thoughts, January 15

Genesis 5020, January 16

Blossoms and Blessings, January 16

Connect in Fiction, January 17

SPLASHES of Joy, January 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 17

Emily Yager, January 18

Deanne’s Book Thoughts, January 18

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, January 18

A Baker’s Perspective, January 19

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, January 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 20

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 20

Mary Hake, January 20

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 21

Wishful Endings, January 21

All-of-a-kind Mom, January 21

Pause for Tales, January 22

Bigreadersite, January 22

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 22

Through the Fire Blogs, January 23

Betti Mace, January 23

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 23

Older & Smarter?, January 24

For the Love of Literature, January 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 25

Rebecca Tews, January 25

For Him and My Family, January 25

She Lives to Read, January 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 26

Inklings and notions, January 26

Blessed & Bookish, January 27

janicesbookreviews, January 27

deb’s Book Review, January 27

Texas Book-aholic, January 28

Hook Me In A Book, January 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty 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/f49e/freedom-in-the-mountain-wind-celebration-tour-giveaway

Simple Things Bring Joy

Posted on January 20, 2020January 18, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The night before I needed to run some errands my sweet daughter messaged me. She volunteered to chauffeur me in case there were no parking places or just to spend time together. Wow! What an unexpected blessing for this mama.

Sure enough at stop number one, there were no parking places at the doctor’s office. After dropping me off at the front door my daughter proceeded to look for one farther away in where we dubbed “The South Forty.” By the time she sauntered through the door I had signed in and was talking insurance.

The wait for the Lab took longer than usual. Today it did not matter as mother and daughter chattered away. She told me tales of her family and how a stranger praised my grandson for his manners and character. The stranger went on to reaffirm my daughter was doing a good job in her mothering. Even though I knew this it was a beautiful thing to hear someone else noticed it, too.

Finally I was called back and my daughter adjusted her long stride to match that of my short one. I dread having bloodwork done because I am what they call “a hard stick.” Cheerful conversation helped take my mind off of this. My usually temperamental veins were cooperative and yielded blood easily. Prayers answered. Leaving my daughter hurried to deliver her van right to the door. What a thoughtful daughter.

The remaining errands were routine but still much nicer because they were shared. I even felt better physically. Since I was required to fast, she decided a trip through the coffee shop drive through as well as another was in order. We couldn’t go inside because groceries filled the back of her van.

All morning we laughed, giggled, shared, and had a lovely time. Ending in my driveway we settled in the van, talked, drank coffee, and ate miniature biscuits which we dipped in gravy. My daughter said “you know what would make this perfect? If a deer came into the yard.” That happens often. She loves seeing all of the wildlife that grace our land, but I believe deer are her favorite.

It was already perfect for me. I was happy, peaceful, joyful, and felt loved by my daughter and my Heavenly Father. He provided this day and time which I really needed. It was hard to leave the sanctuary of her van and our quality time.

Joy can be found in so many places and things. For me, joy is spending time with my daughter. Apparently it was spending time with me for her. Later that night she texted me to say how much she needed our time together.

She has no way of knowing that while we sipped our coffee that I traveled back in time. I recalled how close we have always been, my hopes and prayers for her, and realized she is the extraordinary woman I wanted her to be. She is a wonderful Christian woman and mother.

Please think about who needs you to bring joy into their lives. Bless them today. It doesn’t need to cost you much or anything. A phone call, offering to chauffeur them on errands, a coffee date, or even sitting in a car chatting might bring them much joy. It did me. I am thankful for my daughter everyday. God is so good. Isn’t He?

When Your Voice Became Mine Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on January 19, 2020January 17, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

When Your Voice Became Mine by author Celeste N. Bowers is a beautiful book written to help those who have suffered loss. Above all else, this is a God-glorifying book. It is inspiring, full of hope, trust, and love for our Lord.

I was moved to tears while reading this poignant book. The format is so nice and extremely personal. Everything has been well thought and planned. The book is written in letter form to Christina, the author’s daughter. There are five “Packages” that feature a part of Christina’s life. She was able to uplift and minister to others throughout her short life. Her one young life touched many people.

The author has included some pictures which make this book even more emotional. The messages of trusting in God, Heaven, faith, and love are strong. Every reader will find this book lingers long after it has been read. There is much to ponder.

This would make a nice selection for a reading group, especially for a grief therapy group. I would recommend this to anyone. It was definitely written with love. I rate it a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but this is my honest opinion.

About the Book

Book: When Your Voice Became Mine

Author: Celeste N. Bowers

Genre: Non-Fiction

Release Date: November 2019

For all those who have lost hope and purpose, and for all those who hurt deep inside from loss, author Celeste Bowers wishes she could spare you from pain, just as she hoped she could shield her own ten-year-old daughter, Christina, from the storms.

Although she can’t protect you from life’s tragedies, Celeste can tell you this—and she is proof of this—no matter how hard you fall or how much you ache, God will lift you up with new purpose. He will carry you out of the weeping waves and safely to shore.

Celeste has been sending “packages” to heaven since her daughter passed away on May 29, 2005. What she never fathomed were the gifts sent back to deeply define her.

In a moment, Christina’s voice became hers. In that same moment, she knew “there is a mailbox in heaven.”

Click here for your copy.

About the Author

Celeste Bowers has been blessed with gifts of writing, teaching, coaching, making people laugh, and being a mom. These gifts held crucial roles when her daughter, Christina, was diagnosed with cancer. Every gift Celeste received from God is tied together in her words. Packages bundled in love and filled with life lessons are sent to heaven in her first book, If There’s a Mailbox in Heaven. Christina’s testimony and Celeste’s newfound purpose are now joined together in When Your Voice Became Mine.

More from Celeste

Time is such a fragile commodity. When someone we love passes away,

we want the whole world to stop moving and acknowledge what truly

matters at that moment—but we also want time to fly so we don’t have

to endure another day without our loved ones. What helped me move

gently through time was nothing that came about by my own means. Instead, I have trusted God wholeheartedly to navigate my path.

Time does not exist in heaven. Since heaven is our real home, I

will not allow time to consume me here on earth; instead, I choose

to use my precious time wisely. I have been sending “packages” to heaven—letters that I write

to my ten-year-old daughter Christina—since she passed away on May 29, 2005. Each one is tied with my hopes, wishes, and newfound purpose. What I never

fathomed were the gifts from above that would be sent back to me.

In a moment, Christina’s voice became mine. In that same moment,

I knew there is a mailbox in heaven.

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 10

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, January 11

Artistic Nobody, January 12 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, January 13

Book Love, January 14 (Guest Review from Lucy Reynolds)

Through the Fire Blogs, January 15 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, January 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 17

Texas Book-aholic, January 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 19

A Baker’s Perspective, January 20 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, January 21

janicesbookreviews, January 22

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 23 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Celeste is giving away the grand prize package of a signed copy of each of her books, along with a $25 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/f469/when-your-voice-became-mine-celebration-tour-giveaway

There is Hope, Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on January 18, 2020January 5, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

There is Hope, Bloom Where You are Planted by author Carla Huelsmann is a combination devotional, journal, and memoir. The author has written it to encourage and inspire those struggling with illness, severe illness. She has penned these 52 life lessons from her experience and wants to share hope with others.

Each lesson begins with about two pages explaining happened to Carla. The lesson is followed by a relevant scripture. Closing the lesson is a question about the reader with space to journal an answer. Everything ties together into a nice, new t lesson or devotional on hope.

The writing is personal and warm. Author Huelsmann is open and writes as if talking to a friend over coffee. I loved her writing style and found myself invested in her story. She inspired me with her faith in God.

Everything is covered within the pages of this book. The highs and lows, hope and misgivings, along with heart warming memories. Some of the days were emotional as I began to feel closer to the author through her writing. I wish it went a little deeper, but it is still very good.

I highly recommend this book. It will provide hope, faith, and encouragement. This would make a lovely group read for people going through illness. Church libraries would benefit from a copy. I rated it 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: There is Hope

Author: Carla Huelsmann

Genre: Journal, devotional, memoir

Release Date: August, 2018

52 life lessons for those struggling with major illness will inspire hope and encourage those suffering to take back control of their lives.

Carla Huelsmann dealt with the daily impact of seizures since age two. Her life-long battle with epilepsy impacted all parts of her life, family, career, self-confidence, and independence until corrective brain surgery ended the seizures. Free from the debilitating seizures and their accompanying residues of doubt and fear, Carla Huelsmann lives independently and shares her story to help others along their own journeys.

Part journal, part devotional, and part memoir, this is a book of hope, faith, and inspiration. The book addresses the fears, challenges, and questions about the future those going through a major illness, debilitating injury, or life crisis may have. Designed as a traveling companion for those facing challenging circumstances, each one-page entry is accompanied by blank space for the reader to journal his or her own thoughts and prayers.

My goal is to give hope, help, healing, and resources. I want to walk alongside others and assure them they are not alone; there is hope. -Carla Huelsmann

About the Author

Carla Huelsmann earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Eastern Illinois University, subsequently taught grades five through eight, and now works for the US Department of Veterans Affairs in St. Louis, MO. The alumnus of a fiction-writing course at Southern Illinois University, and the CLASS Seminar with Marita and Florence Littauer, she is also the author of articles on her experiences, and is available to speak.

More from Carla

I want to inspire and equip others struggling with epilepsy or other major illnesses to take back control of their lives. Eighteen years after corrective surgery, I live a seizure-free life that I feel in control of. And, I want to share my story and lessons learned with others facing serious challenges. My goal is to give hope, help and healing and resources of helpful information in one book. I want to walk alongside them and assure them that they are not alone and there is hope!

I’ve dealt with seizures, epilepsy and their daily impact since the age of two. It has impacted my family, career, self-confidence, independence and much more. Through it all, family, friends and faith have provided bedrock sources of strength. In addition, timely interventions by doctors, new contacts, new techniques and self-discipline came at opportune times through perseverance.

Now free from the tunnel of doubt, fear and debilitating seizures, I’ve gathered up my collection of personal journals and thoughts in order to help others along their journey. “There Is Hope: Bloom Where You are Planted” is a devotional for someone going through major illness, major injury, or life crisis.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 13

janicesbookreviews, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 15

Older & Smarter?, January 16

Inklings and notions, January 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 18

For the Love of Literature, January 19

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 20

Through the Fire Blogs, January 21 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, January 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 22

CarpeDiem, January 23

Splashes of Joy, January 24

By The Book, January 25 (Author Interview)

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, January 25

God is Love, January 26

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour Carla is giving away the grand prize of an autographed 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/f46c/there-is-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

What Did You Say?

Posted on January 16, 2020January 14, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Growing up in a Christian family I rarely, if ever, heard profanity. Expletives were often replaced with “doggone it” “for Pete’s Sake,” or “that honks me off”. I was taught at an early age not to use “ugly” or vulgar words.

Apparently I was a good student of what not to say growing up, because even now there are words I just cannot incorporate into conversation. A certain word that easily flows off of the tongues of my grandchildren makes me cringe. Before you think poorly of my sweet grands, it is not a horrible word. Just one for a bodily function that my family never deemed proper for a young lady or gentleman to use.

When I was young television banned the use of four letter foul words and taking the Lord’s name in vain. There was no cable and Prime Time was a lot more prim and proper. Comparing shows we watched to those on now is like comparing soda pop and hard liquor. It is astounding how low the regulations are now.

I can remember a time when men watched their words around ladies. When a “bad” word slipped out it was quickly followed by an apology. That is called respect. Men respected themselves and women.

So what exactly is the point in using cuss words? Your sentence should still hold the same meaning. You on the other hand will sound much smarter, kinder, and polished without them. My grandmother often said a person’s perceived IQ dropped with each cuss word they said. Makes sense when you think about it.

What does the Bible say about our words? In Colossians 3:8 it says “But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” That sounds very straightforward. No filthy language should come from your lips.

One of the Ten Commandments, the third one, states clearly “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His name in vain.” That is not a suggestion but a command.

So many times I read something on Facebook that I would love to share, but there is a problem. The message is great, but it contains profanity. Really?! A point would have been made without those extra words. There are some darling shirts, also, until I get down to the last line. Wham! An ugly spoils an otherwise nice message.

How about those shirts that advertise being a Christian and cuss, too? Hmmm. Why would anyone want to advertise that? I don’t think that is in scripture. What is in scripture is “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” from Ephesians 5:4. Listen to what James 3:10 says “Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”

Sure we all slip up. I do at times and then wince. Quickly I ask for forgiveness and try my best not to repeat it. Like everything on this planet though I am a work in progress. Aren’t you? I challenge you to eliminate these “ugly” words from your vocabulary. Teach you children and grandchildren that they do not need them either. Lead by example.

Most importantly, I urge you not to take the Lord’s name in vain. Too many people have forgotten it is a sin. Let’s work together and not just act like Christians, but let’s talk like we should, too. We can do this. Are you with me?