“Bipartisan Love” Celebrate Lit Tour & Giveaway

Posted on July 1, 2019July 1, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts:

This is an older Contemporary or newer historic Christian romance written by author and storyteller extraordinaire, Caryl MacAdoo. The reason I say older is it is set right after the assassination of Bobby Kennedy. While that might not seem historic to me, it actually is.

Bipartisan Love is another delicious serving of God glorifying fiction from author MacAdoo. It is a different type of story and I loved every bit of it. The author’s down home honest style of writing draws me right in from the first page and keeps me until the story is finished. This was filled with emotions, life lessons, faith, humor, and of course romance.

The author has researched her material well. The characters were delightful and very realistic. Each seemed like someone we would know. Conversations were saturated with colloquialisms, making them even more authentic. With the author’s vivid descriptions I felt like I was in the middle of the story myself.

This is the story of Cynthia and Cody, high school sweethearts. It is a tale of forgiveness, trusting God and His timing, starting over again, betrayal, love, and second chances. It is about faith, family, and friends.

I highly recommend this delightfully written novel. It gets a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was not required to write a review. These are my own honest words.

About the Book:

Book: Bipartisan Love

Author: Caryl MacAdoo

Genre: Historical Christian Romance

Release date: June 20, 2019

Don’t lean to your own understanding. Acknowledge God in all your ways, and He will direct your path.

Does time truly heal a broken heart?

Cody thought it had until she walked into the diner like she owned the world and back into his life as if she owned him.

Can betrayal ever be completely forgiven?

Cindy thought it could until she saw him with the bleached blonde. Her Cody!

Separated eighteen years, Cody Wayne Buckmeyer and Cindy think they can put the past behind them and work toward a common goal, a congressional seat . . . but is that possible?

About the Author:

Praying her story gives God glory, award-winning, best-selling author Caryl McAdoo loves revisiting beloved characters in her novels. And her readers are glad she does! She’s blessed that her titles earned over fifty-percent 5-Star ratings and eighty-five to ninety percent 4 & 5-Stars! With forty-four novels (thirty-four in the last four-and-a-half years), it’s obvious she loves writing, but singing the new songs the Lord gives her also rates high. (Listen to a few at YouTube.)

Married to Ron, her high school sweetheart, she counts their four children and eighteen grandsugars life’s best blessings. The McAdoos live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas, waiting expectantly for God to open the next door.

More from Caryl:

I totally enjoy revisiting characters from previous stories! That’s one reason I love writing ‘Family Sagas” like the Texas Romances that has ten full length novels and Cross Timbers Romances with two books and counting! The third launches this coming September.

In BIPARTISAN LOVE, we get to spend time again with the Buckmeyers—Travis and Emma Lee from Texas Romance Book Ten CHIEF OF SINNERS. My heart could barely leave these dear people after book ten, so I’ve written a few “Companion Books” (five and counting 😊) that go with the Texas Romance series—either going back to meet ancestors or forward for their descendants or just more stories with the characters you already love.

Readers first met Cody Buckmeyer and his kissing cousin (by marriage) best friend Cynthia Kramer as pre-teens in SON OF PROMISE. In that story, Emma Lee, so longing to be a mom, gets her heart’s desire in Cody, her husband’s son she’s never known about. The two youngsters became fast friends, but Cindy went overseas when LBJ gave her father an ambassadorship.

It’s been eighteen years, and Cody’s engaged to another. After her letters stopped, he gave up all hope. A liberal Democrat, Cynthia comes home after working in Hubert Humphries’ losing bid for the presidency, and wants Cody, a conservative Republican, to run for a Congressional seat with her as his campaign manager!

How’s this supposed to work?

Blog Stops:

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 24

Godly Book Reviews, June 25

Simple Harvest Reads, June 26 (Spotlight)

For Him and My Family, June 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 28

Connect in Fiction, June 29

Power of Words, June 30 (Spotlight)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, July 1

Just the Write Escape, July 2

Texas Book-aholic, July 3

Artistic Nobody, July 4 (Spotlight)

janicesbookreviews, July 5

A Reader’s Brain, July 6

Inklings and notions, July 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away

Grand Prize – $50 Gift Amazon Card

1st Prize – Signed, Paperback copy of CHOICE of all my books

2nd Prize – Signed copy of Bipartisan Love

3rd Prize – eBook copy of Bipartisan Love

and

4th Prize – eBook copy of CHOICE of all my books!!

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/e4f6/bipartisan-love-celebration-tour-giveaway

Andrew by Author Jennifer Beckstrand Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on June 30, 2019May 15, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Hello! Today is my stop on Celebrate Lit’s book tour and giveaway for Jennifer Beckstrand’s new Amish book “Andrew, A Lesson in Love”. It is Book One in her new series the Petersheim Brothers. Not only will you learn about the book, the author, her thoughts, the tour stops, and the giveaway, but the author has included a recipe for you. It sounds yummy! Let’s begin…

My Thoughts

I always enjoy a nice Amish fiction especially when it has an inspirational message. Book one, Andrew, in author Beckstrand’s new series is an absolute delight! This contemporary Amish novel is heavily laced with inspiration and life lessons. It has light romance, humor, a bit of intrigue, and is so well written it is hard to put down.

Author Beckstrand is a storyteller deluxe. The Petersheim Family was filled with older boys (men) and a pair of rambunctious eight year old twins. Paternal grandparents had just moved in adding to the frenzy with an ever “helpful” mother-in-law.

I enjoyed the writer’s style. The pace was great, not rush or sluggish. The conversations sounded authentic. There was plenty of dialog which I like. The characters were so well described I felt like I knew them. My heart went out to Mary and then to Andrew. I could imagine them easily and feel their emotions.

The secondary characters were, well characters! I could see a book being written about many of them. Mammi was a typical mother-in-law wanting to help by setting things up her way. Jerry was a fireman that has a secret, Aunt Bitsy has a bunch of cats and blue hair, and so many others.

This is very entertaining but it is also an inspiration book with life lessons. It deals with choices, hypocrisy, judging, family issues, illness, love, trust, even abortion. Scripture is heavily quoted and mention of what would Jesus do. In fact, a lot of the book discusses the difference in helping someone verses judging them. To say this was a thought provoking read is and understatement. It has stayed with me weeks later.

I was astonished by how forthright the author was in taking on hypocrites. It is a topic everyone should read about and address. This book will give readers a lot to ponder. It might even change some attitudes.

This gets a glowing recommendation from me. Everyone should read this book. I am eagerly awaiting book two and the issues it will tackle. This book gets a 5 out of 5 stars for the lessons it teaches. We should all take them to heart. An Advanced Reader Copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review.

About the Book

Book: Andrew

Author: Jennifer Beckstrand

Genre: Amish Romance

Release Date: June 25, 2019

Andrew, Abraham, and Austin Petersheim’s family business has earned them the nickname The Peanut Butter Brothers. But if their matchmaking younger siblings have their way, all three may soon bear another title: husband . . .

Handsome, hardworking, and godly, Andrew Petersheim has always been sure of his place in his Wisconsin Amish community. He’ll be a welcome catch for the local girl who finally captures his heart. Mary Coblenz certainly isn’t that girl. Two years after “jumping the fence” for the Englischer world, she’s returned, unmarried and pregnant. Yet instead of hiding in shame as others in the community expect, she’s working at the Honeybee Farm, ignoring the gossips—and winning over Andrew’s eight-year-old twin brothers . . .

For all Andrew’s certainty about right and wrong, it seems he has a lot to learn from Mary’s courage, grace, and resilience. She’s changing his notions about forgiveness and love, but will she in turn accept the challenge of starting over and choose to stay—with him?

Link to purchase book: https://amzn.to/3029xel

About the Author

Jennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hillseries, The Honeybee Sisters series, and The Petersheim Brothers series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were both nominated for the coveted RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Jennifer has written twenty-one Amish romances, a historical Western, Jessie and James, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. She and her husband have been married for thirty-four years, and she has six children and seven adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.

More from Jennifer

If you enjoyed The Honeybee Sisters, you’re going to love The Petersheim Brothers, or the Peanut Butter Brothers as they’re known in their small Amish community of Bienenstock, Wisconsin. The Petersheim brothers work their small farm and make peanut butter. The idea for The Petersheim Brothers series came when two of my friends and I were creating The Honeybee Sisters Cookbook. My friend Alicia suggested I write a book about Peanut Butter Brothers, and the idea stuck.

One of my favorite characters in my Amish romances is Aunt Bitsy, the irrepressible, unconventional woman who raised the Honeybee Sisters, tried to chase off all their suitors, and then lit fireworks at their triple wedding. In Andrew, the first book in the Petersheim Brothers series, Aunt Bitsy takes in a girl who has jumped the fence and wants to come back to the Amish community to have her baby. Aunt Bitsy is still protecting her dandelions and her bees, still dyeing her hair all sorts of bright colors, and still praying to Gotte right out loud.

Andrew is about forgiveness, second chances, and learning to love. It will have you laughing and crying, and you might just fall in love with two of the most mischievous little boys in Wisconsin. Enjoy.

In honor of the Peanut Butter Brothers, I want to share one of our favorite family recipes. These bars are perfect for picnics, parties, and potlucks. They’re easy and delicious!

Peanut Butter Bars

Cream together:

1 cup butter

1 cup brown sugar

1 cup sugar

Blend In:

2 unbeaten eggs

1 tsp. baking soda

2/3 cup peanut butter

½ tsp. salt

1 tsp. vanilla

Stir In:

2 cups flour

2 cups quick oats

Spread mixture in greased jelly-roll pan or large cookie sheet.

Bake: 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Do not overbake. Remove from oven.

Sprinkle on:

1 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Let stand five minutes.

For peanut butter mixture on top, combine:

½ cup sifted powdered sugar

¼ cup peanut butter

2 to 4 Tbs. evaporated milk

Mix well.

The chocolate chips will melt on the bars. Spread melted chocolate evenly. Drizzle peanut butter mixture on top. Cool completely. Cut into bars.

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, June 26

The Avid Reader, June 26

Moments, June 26

Lighthouse Academy, June 27

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 27

Blossoms and Blessings, June 28

Christian Author, J.E. Grace, June 28

Reading Is My SuperPower, June 29

Bigreadersite, June 29

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 30

Genesis 5020, July 1

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, July 1

Inklings and notions , July 1

Maureen’s Musings, July 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, July 2

Christian Bookaholic, July 3

Pause for Tales, July 3

Southern Gal Loves to Read, July 4

For Him and my family, July 4

A Reader’s Brain, July 4

Mary Hake, July 5

Splashesofjoy, July 5

Vicky Sluiter, July 5

Texas Book-aholic, July 6

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 7

janicesbookreviews, July 7

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, July 8

Older & Smarter?, July 8

Quiet Quilter, July 9

Jeanette’s Thoughts, July 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a 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/e57a/andrew-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Brides of the Big Valley Book Review

Posted on June 29, 2019June 29, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Brides of The Big Valley is a compilation of three Christian contemporary Amish romance stories penned by the three Brunstetter ladies. Matriarch Wanda is joined by daughter-in-law Jean and granddaughter Richelle to produce a delightful fiction book that is unique and engaging. I have never read any Amish stories such as these.

The Amish lifestyle fascinates me and by reading these three books I was able to learn even more about it. Opening this paperback is an Introduction section that describes The Big Valley and Amish there. The three different buggy colors intrigued me. Their language and cooking do, too. The Brunstetter ladies have done their research well and really know the Amish culture. It is evidenced in their well written books.

Each story has believable characters that are true to life. They struggle with life issues such as strife, forgiveness, coveting, and not wanting to accept help from others. Through their tale solutions are given on how to deal with these unfortunate and stressful topics. God is frontmost in each of the three books.

All three novellas are set in an area in Pennsylvania known as Big Valley. There are many Amish here but they aren’t all alike in their beliefs and rules. The three separate districts here range from Conservative to Liberal. Each one has their own color of buggy to distinguish themselves.

Wanda has written the first book, Deanna’s Determination. In this story Deanna is a widow with a young son who has Down’s Syndrome. It is a heart wrenching story that has stayed with me long after I finished reading it. I was a bit bothered by switching between Dad and Daed throughout the book, but it could be a Big Valley practice. I loved the little boy, Abner. There are so many life lessons to be learned in this poignant tale.

Jean took on Book Two, Rose Mary’s Resolve. The common thread between these two books is Elmer. He works for her father. In this tale, Mary Rose is deliberating on her faith and finding a man to help her in her walk. She has been considering jumping the fence over into the Englischer World. It is a wonderful story and filled with faith, decisions, consequences, and inspiration. Jean has a very nice style of writing and knows her Amish, also.

Richelle wraps up the book with Leila’s Longing. Leila has been helping her mother and has done so without complaining. Secretly she yearns for a house and family of her own. Her friends are all married or getting married. She is goes to a singing where young people gather and mingle. Her dilemma is can a strict yellow topper be interested in beginning a relationship and family with someone from a different group?

I would highly recommend this to anyone. If you aren’t certain if you like Amish books, this is a sampling from three excellent authors. Each of the stories is equally entertaining and inspiring. After the novella each author has included a recipe from her story. There are no Discussion Questions at the end, but these would be great book club choices for many reasons. There is heartache, disabilities, and making choices involved in these captivating tales.

After reading these three novella, I am ready for a real trip to Amish Country. This gave me a taste for the real thing! I gladly rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. Each individual story would get a 5, also. A copy was provided by the publisher but these were my own, honest thoughts.

About the Book:

In an area of Pennsylvania called The Big Valley, a uniquely blended Amish community thrives in which three distinct groups of Amish identify themselves by the colors of their buggy’s top—white, black, or yellow. Join New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter, her daughter-in-law, and granddaughter in experiencing the stories of three young women who search for faith and love within this special place. Deanna is a widow who sees her second chance of love slipping away. Rose Mary is at a point in life where she must choose the path of her faith and the right man to walk with her on it. Leila is burdened with family responsibilities and wonders when she will ever start a family of her own.

About the Authors:

Wanda Brunstetter

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda’s stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Jean Brunstetter

Jean Brunstetter became fascinated with the Amish when she first went to Pennsylvania to visit her father-in-law’s family. Since that time, Jean has become friends with several Amish families and enjoys writing about their way of life. She also likes to put some of the simple practices followed by the Amish into her daily routine. Jean lives in Washington State with her husband, Richard Jr. and their three children, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish communities in several states. In addition to writing, Jean enjoys boating, gardening, and spending time on the beach.

Richelle Brunstetter

Richelle Brunstetter lives in the Pacific Northwest and developed a desire to write when she took creative writing in high school. After enrolling in college classes, her overall experience enticed her to become a writer, and she wants to implement what she’s learned into her stories. Just starting her writing career, her first published story appears in The Beloved Christmas Quilt beside her grandmother, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and her mother, Jean. Richelle enjoys traveling to different places, her favorite being Kauai, Hawaii.

The Medallion Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on June 28, 2019June 27, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts:

The Medallion was set in 1939 Poland. It is a poignant, haunting tale of World War II and just how evil and unsafe Hitler had made the World. It was a difficult book for me to read. The author brought emotions, stories, and descriptions to people that lived during this nightmare.

Author Gohlke has done an exceptional job researching for her novel. Everything sounded realistic. Her characters are well done and heart-wrenching. It is hard to imagine anyone going through the atrocities that accompanied WWII. Just reading about it made me cry and I can’t stop thinking about the horrors.

This is a book about hope and trust. It is about knowing God is always there. Forgiveness, grace, and mercy are touched on. One of the main inspirational lessons is to prayer continually. After reading this, I was thankful that it was not anything I had to experience or endure.

There were sweet, touching moments in the book, too. They were overshadowed by the emotionally gut wrenching ones unfortunately. The Medallion is based on a true story, but I can definitely imagine everything happening.

I would recommend these to anyone that enjoys WWII fiction. My spirit is a bit too soft for all of the evil and vileness of the Nazis. However, the writing has been done beautifully and will touch the very core of your being. It does have Discussion Questions so if you are in a book club that enjoys this type of fiction, it would be perfect.

This book gets a 5 out of 5 stars from me. I received a readers’ copy from Celebrate Lit but was under not obligation to write a review. This is my own, honest opinion.

About the Book:

Book: The Medallion

Author: Cathy Gohlke

Genre: Historical Fiction (World War II)

Release date: June 4, 2019

For fans of bestselling World War II fiction like Sarah’s Key and The Nightingale comes an illuminating tale of courage, sacrifice, and survival, about two couples whose lives are ravaged by Hitler’s mad war yet eventually redeemed through the fate of one little girl.

Seemingly overnight, the German blitzkrieg of Warsaw in 1939 turns its streets to a war zone and shatters the life of each citizen—Polish, Jewish, or otherwise. Sophie Kumiega, a British bride working in the city’s library, awaits news of her husband, Janek, recently deployed with the Polish Air Force. Though Sophie is determined that she and the baby in her womb will stay safe, the days ahead will draw her into the plight of those around her, compelling her to help, whatever the danger.

Rosa and Itzhak Dunovich never imagined they would welcome their longed-for first child in the Jewish ghetto, or that they would let anything tear their family apart. But as daily atrocities intensify, Rosa soon faces a terrifying reality: to save their daughter’s life, she must send her into hiding. Her only hope of finding her after the war—if any of them survive—is a medallion she cuts in half and places around her neck.

Inspired by true events of Poland’s darkest days and brightest heroes, The Medallion paints a stunning portrait of war and its aftermath, daring us to believe that when all seems lost, God can make a way forward.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Three-time Christy and two-time Carol and INSPY Award–winning and bestselling author Cathy Gohlke writes novels steeped with inspirational lessons, speaking of world and life events through the lens of history. She champions the battle against oppression, celebrating the freedom found only in Christ. Cathy has worked as a school librarian, drama director, and director of children’s and education ministries. When not traveling to historic sites for research, she, her husband, and their dog, Reilly, divide their time between northern Virginia and the Jersey Shore, enjoying time with their grown children and grandchildren. Visit her website at www.cathygohlke.com and find her on Facebook at CathyGohlkeBooks.

More from Cathy

Every story begins with a journey. Sharing that journey is twice the joy.

The Medallion was inspired by two true stories—the first was the WWII account of Itzhak Dugin and his Jewish family, persecuted in Lithuania. Their heart-wrenching story made world news when the tunnel from which Itzhak escaped the Nazis was discovered using modern technology.

The second was the story of Irena Sendler, a Polish Catholic social worker within Żegota (an underground Polish Council to Aid Jews), who developed a network to rescue children. Despite terrible risks, they smuggled 2500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto and certain death at the hands of the Nazis, then hid them in Polish homes, convents, churches and hospitals until the enud of the war. Approximately 2,000 of those children were found after the war. Theories abound regarding the whereabouts of those missing. I couldn’t help but wonder, and imagine: What became of those 400 to 500 missing children? What became of one?

Set in WWII Poland and post-war England, The Medallion is a story of courage, sacrifice, love, forgiveness and redemption.

Blog Stops

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, June 22

Christian Bookaholic, June 22

Carla Loves To Read, June 22

The Power of Words, June 23

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, June 23

Mary Hake, June 23

janicesbookreviews, June 23

Where Faith and Books Meet, June 24

By The Book, June 24

For Him and My Family, June 24

A Reader’s Brain, June 24

All-of-a-kind Mom, June 25

Through the Fire Blogs, June 25

Retrospective Spines, June 25

Inklings and notions, June 25

Remembrancy, June 26

Lis Loves Reading , June 26

The Becca Files, June 26

Genesis 5020, June 27

Reader’s Cozy Corner, June 27

Connect in Fiction, June 27

Bigreadersite, June 28

Maureen’s Musings, June 28

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 28

Blossoms and Blessings, June 29

For the Love of Literature, June 29

Spoken from the Heart, June 29

Inspired by fiction, June 30

Have A Wonderful Day, June 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 30

Inspiration Clothesline, July 1

Connie’s History Classroom, July 1

Simple Harvest Reads, July 1 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Just the Write Escape, July 2

Seasons of Opportunities, July 2

Pause for Tales, July 2

As He Leads is Joy, July 3

To Everything A Season, July 3

Hallie Reads, July 3

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, July 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, July 4

For The Love of Books, July 4

Emily Yager, July 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 5

Texas Book-aholic, July 5

Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e50c/the-medallion-celebration-tour-giveaway

This Healing Journey Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on June 25, 2019June 19, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts:

This Healing Journey by author Misty M. Beiler is a Christian historical romance. This is the series finale, Book 7, in her Heart of the Mountain Series. It can easily be read by itself but the others are so good you will want to read them, too.

This is the story of Hannah Graces is a determined, strong, caring woman that has a desire to be with family. It is also about Nathaniel, a strong, dedicated, handsome man. Their chemistry is undeniable and beautiful.

Set in the rugged mountains, this Christian historical romance captured my attention and gave me a glimpse of life without modern conveniences. The author had done her research well. At times I felt like I was in danger, in the perilous terrain. My heart and emotions went out to this couple. I loved reading their love story. It left me smiling.

It was refreshing how they trusted in God. They learned to listen to His leading and trust in His plan for their lives. Don’t we all need to do that?

The story had some twists and turns, surprises, and was so interesting from start to finish. The author has a wonderful way with words. She weaves them together into a smooth story. Conversations are realistic and do not sound forced. Her characters are well developed and seem like friends. It is a pleasant writing style.

I highly recommend this book for anyone that likes historical, adventure, Christian romance. It is thought provoking and provides many life lessons. I rated it a 4.5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was not required to write a review. These are my honest opinions.

About the Book

Book: This Healing Journey

Author: Misty M Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: July 18, 2019

The mountain wilderness of her family’s home in the Canadian Rockies is all Hannah Grant has ever known. Now at the age of twenty-four, she’s on a journey to help her father to find the son he gave up for adoption three decades before. This is Hannah’s chance to discover the life she’s missed out on so far—and hopefully find a husband along the way. But she certainly doesn’t plan to fall for the first man she meets.

Years in the Calvary provided Nathaniel Peak with more than his share of violence and adventure. That life behind him, he wants nothing more than to settle down in the beautiful Montana mountains and raise his own stock—in peace. The last thing he expects is the savagely wounded child who shows up in his barn. Nor the woman he comes to rely on for the girl’s care.

Hannah can’t help but fall in love with the brave Indian child who so desperately needs her, but no matter what, she can’t let herself fall for the man whose past choices go against everything she believes in. As the situation grows worse, Hannah and Nathaniel are forced to make a heart-rending decision to save the girl’s life. Little do they imagine, the choice they make could spell disaster for them all.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Misty M. Beller writes 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.

More from Misty

Occasionally I hear readers debate about whether they prefer to read a series of books from an author, or only standalone novels. Personally, I love series—both reading and writing them. There’s something about seeing characters I know and love from past books that makes me warm and happy inside. Can you relate?

One of the first series I wrote, the Mountain Dreams Series, included five books that told the stories of several families intertwined through marriage and God’s connections. Those characters are still so dear to my heart! When book 5 ended, I had so many readers ask for more in the series, I began dreaming of a spin-off series with a very special connection to the hero in book 5. Enter: the Heart of the Mountains Series.

I’ve LOVED every story in this 7-book collection, taking each journey with the characters as I laughed and cried and uncovered their secrets. For the final 7^th book, I’m thrilled to announce that I’m reuniting many of the characters from BOTH series! Simeon Grant (from Heart of the Mountains, book 1) goes on a journey to find the son he gave up for adoption as an infant (the hero in Mountain Dreams, book 5).

This Healing Journey has its own leading lady, Hannah Grant (the baby born at the end of This Treacherous Journey, all grown up and as tough as any lady raised in the Canadian mountain wilderness). And a new character, Nathaniel Peak, who stars as the hero (and who I fell in love with IMMEDIATELY!).

Even if you’ve never read any of my stories, I think you’ll enjoy this one. Especially if you love adventurous mountain stories as much as I do!

Blog Stops

Inspiration clothesline, June 18

Reading Is My SuperPower, June 18

Among the Reads, June 19

Connect in Fiction, June 19

Simple Harvest Reads, June 20

Wishful Endings, June 20

Blessed & Bookish, June 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 21

Blossoms and Blessings, June 22

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 22

janicesbookreviews, June 22

CarpeDiem, June 23

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, June 23

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 24

Through the Fire Blogs, June 24

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 25

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, June 25

Bigreadersite, June 26

Spoken from the Heart, June 26

A Reader’s Brain, June 26

A Baker’s Perspective, June 27

Splashes of Joy, June 27

For Him and My Family, June 28

Mary Hake, June 28

Real World Bible Study, June 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 29

Inklings and notions, June 29

Pause for Tales, June 30

For the Love of Books, June 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 1

Texas Book-aholic, July 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away 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/e50e/this-healing-journey-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sometimes I Wake Up Grumpy….

Posted on June 22, 2019June 21, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Are you a morning person? When the sun lights up your bedroom do you stretch and declare it a glorious day? Perhaps not and grumble while burrowing under your pillow. Some people need just 5 more minutes, which often turn into 45 minutes and they are still cranky.

My husband and I are totally different morning people. The old joke “Sometimes I wake up grumpy and other times I let him sleep” was written for us. He loves his sleep and can get a bit irritable if it is interrupted. After decades of awakening at 6:00 a.m. to go to work, he delights in sleeping “until he’s finished” as he puts it. Being in the Army has something to do with it, too.

Me? When the light shines and a wet nosed fur-baby greets me, I am ready to pray and get up. Thanking God for the new day and safety of the night, I begin my morning prayer before my feet hit the floor. The older I get the less sleep I seem to need. Are you at this age yet?

What is your relationship with mornings? Are you thrilled with the endless possibilities of the new day? Scripture tells us in Psalm 118:24 “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” No time like the present. Get out of that bed and enjoy this gift from Abba.

The trajectory or path your day will take depends a lot on how you wake up or get up. Have you ever encountered someone so crabby you asked if he “got up on the wrong side of the bed today?” Your and my day begins when we first open our eyes, stretch our arms or legs, and (hopefully) pray. Then when we hop out (do you hop out or like I do gingerly get out) of bed, we are ready to tackle the day with strength from our Father.

Just because the day started grumpy, doesn’t mean it needs to stay there. You are able to shake off that bad mood that began earlier. You have the power. Use it. Trade in the frowns for smiles.

I hope you start your days happy and give smiles away generously. If a cantankerous one slides in, exchange it for a happier one. There will always be time for napping later. Use today to bring glory to God.

More than Words Can Say Celebrate Lit Book Tour & Giveaway

Posted on June 20, 2019June 17, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to my stop on the Celebrate Lit Tour for More Than Words Can Say. Besides getting information about the book and author Karen Witemeyer, there is a sign up to win the Giveaway. It is a $20 Panera gift card and both books in this series.

My Thoughts:

Karen Witemeyer is one of the most gifted authors of historical Christian Fiction romance in today’s market. She writes with a flair that snares my interest within the first page or two. Her style is natural and easy. Nothing seems forced. Everything flows along in an even pace.

“More Than Words Can Say” is part of a series, but I had no trouble following it. It can easily be read as a stand alone. However, now I want to go back and read the others because it was so good!

There are many themes in this delightfully executed tale. Forgiveness, secrets, grudges, honesty, hope, family, love, past mistakes, and marriage are all tackled in a Christian perspective. Returning to and trusting in God is beautifully woven into this story, too.

The author has done a marvelous job with providing a wide array of believable characters. With both attributes and flaws they are well rounded and easy to imagine and relatable. I immediately loved Abigail (Abby) and felt what she felt. Zach was a swoon worthy leading man in looks and deeds.

The chemistry between this couple was explosive. I loved reading about the attraction between a husband and wife. It was never over the line and very tastefully presented.

There were just a couple of disappointments. A book set in a bakery is perfect for recipes and more detailed offerings by the shop. Sigh. There were none. Discussion Questions were absent, too. I still loved this quirky romance with its life lessons, mysteries, twists, and turns, and faith-filled story.

I highly recommend this book. It is a page-turner that caught my attention within the first few pages and swept me away. This would make a great Hallmark movie. I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars.

A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review. These are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: More Than Words Can Say

Author: Karen Witemeyer

Genre: Historical Romance

Release Date: May 7, 2019

After fulfilling a pledge to a dying friend, Zacharias Hamilton is finally free to live life on his own terms. No opportunities to disappoint those he cares about, just the quiet bachelor existence he’s always craved. Until fate snatches his freedom away once again when the baker of his favorite breakfast treat is railroaded by the city council. As hard as he tries to avoid getting involved, he can’t turn a blind eye to her predicament . . . or her adorable dimples. Abigail Kemp needs a man’s name on her bakery’s deed. A marriage of convenience seems the best solution . . . if it involves a man she can control. Not the stoic lumberman who oozes confidence without saying a word whenever he enters her shop. Control Zacharias Hamilton? She can’t even control her pulse when she’s around him. Once vows are spoken, Abigail’s troubles should be over. Yet threats to the bakery worsen, and darker dangers hound her sister. As trust grows between Zach and Abby, she finds she wants more than his rescue. She wants his heart.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Winner of the HOLT Medallion and the Carol Award and a finalist for the RITA and Christy Award, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance to give the world more happily-ever-afters. Karen makes her home in Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.

More from Karen

Settings – Real or Imagined?

One of the key decisions an author has to make before she begins to write is selecting the setting for her story. And the first choice she faces is the question of whether to use a real or imagined location. Roughly half the stories I have written are set in fictional towns. The use of a fictional setting allows an author greater freedom to manipulate the environment of her characters to fit her plot. This provides a great deal of flexibility. However, there is something special about setting a story in a real place. First, readers who are familiar with that place never fail to get excited about seeing a town they recognize in print. Second, if an author can find historical photos and documents, she can add a wonderful layer of authenticity to her setting that might otherwise be missing. Third, an author may turn up fascinating tidbits when studying the history of her setting that find their way into the story and bring a flavor the author never could have supplied on her own. This was the case as I wrote More Than Words Can Say. All of the stories in my Patchwork Family series have been set in real places. Pecan Gap, Texas for More Than Meets the Eye, Honey Grove, Texas for More Than Words Can Say, and coming this fall we’ll travel to Gainesville, Texas for the concluding novella, More Than a Pretty Face. Researching each location brought its own unique discoveries, but I have to admit that researching the small town of Honey Grove brought this history-loving girl a special level of joy. For example, there is a legend about how the town got its name that I knew needed to be incorporated into my story. Legend has it that when Davy Crockett was on his way to join the fight at the Alamo, he stopped in a grove of trees and set up camp. There were so many bees in that in letters to family and friends, he called the place a “Honey Grove.” He carved his initials into one of the trees and intended to return and settle there after the war. Unfortunately, as we know, Crockett did not survive the Alamo and therefore did not return. One of his friends, Samuel A. Erwin, later found the grove and became the first settler in 1839. Many people recall seeing the initials carved into Crockett’s bee tree even into the early 1900s, which led me to believe that this legend was based in truth. It doesn’t play a pivotal role in my story, but if you watch for it, you’ll find it mentioned. Discovering the Honey Grove Preservation League’s website proved a tremendous boon. Their online historical resources are some of the best I have ever come across. Historical photos, newspaper articles, government records—it was like stepping through a time portal every time I visited. And I visited often. Thanks to the Preservation League, I was able to mention real people and places in my novel. Places like the Commercial Hotel, the home of James Gilmer that was built during my time period, Wilkins, Wood & Patteson Dry Goods, and Dora Galbraith Patteson’s millinery shop on the east side of the town square. While Zacharias Hamilton and Reuben Sinclair are completely fictitious characters, there really was a lumberyard located on the corner of Sixth Street and Rail Road. As fiction authors are wont to do, I did take a few liberties with Honey Grove’s history. To my knowledge, there was never any city ordinance banning women from owning businesses in town, which was a key plot point in More Than Words Can Say. In addition, Mayor Chester Longfellow was a complete invention of my imagination. The true mayor of Honey Grove during this time period was J.H. Smith, a man who served in that capacity from 1888-1897. He must have been a well-loved city official to hold office for nearly a decade. I paid brief homage to him by having him step back into office when my fictitious mayor resigned. I hope you enjoy stepping back in time with me into historic Honey Grove, Texas. Zach and Abigail might not have lived there in truth, but I like to believe their tale is a representation of the many amazing love stories have taken place in that sweet little town through the years.

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, June 15

She Lives to Read, June 15

Real World Bible Study, June 15

Carla Loves to Read, June 15

Baker kella, June 16

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 16

EmpowerMoms, June 16

Daysong Reflections, June 16

Through the Fire Blogs, June 17

Genesis 5020, June 17

Lighthouse Academy, June 17

Bigreadersite , June 17

Among the Reads, June 18

All-of-a-kind Mom, June 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, June 18

For The Love of Books, June 18

C Jane Read, June 19

Inspired By Fiction, June 19

Mary Hake, June 19

Hallie Reads, June 19

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 20

For Him and My Family, June 20

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 20

Living Life Free in Christ, June 20

Connect in Fiction, June 21

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 21

Splashes of Joy, June 21

Pause for Tales, June 21

Stories By Gina , June 22

Worthy2Read, June 22

Blossoms and Blessings, June 22

Southern Gal Loves to Read, June 22

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, June 23

Connie’s History Classroom , June 23

Vicky Sluiter, June 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 23

Wishful Endings, June 24

Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, June 24

Simple Harvest Reads, June 24 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Texas Book-aholic, June 24

A Baker’s Perspective, June 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 25

amandainpa , June 25

janicesbookreviews, June 25

Britt Reads Fiction, June 26

Quiet Quilter, June 26

Older & Smarter?, June 26

A Reader’s Brain, June 26

LifeofLiterature, June 27

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner , June 27

Christian Bookshelf Reviews, June 27

Inklings and notions, June 27

Emily Yager, June 28

Lukewarm Tea, June 28

By The Book, June 28

The Becca Files, June 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away a grand prize that includes More Than Words Can Say, More Than Meets the Eye, and a $20 Panera Bread 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/e4f4/more-than-words-can-say-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Noble Guardian Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on June 13, 2019June 13, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts:

Christian Historical Romance is one of my favorite genre. Author Michelle Griep has written a compelling book about Regency England that had me on the edge of my seat turning pages as fast as I could read them. This is Book Three and the conclusion to her Bow Street Runners Series. If you haven’t read the first two, this can be read as a stand alone.

The Noble Guardian was a phenomenal book. My interest was immediately piqued within the first few pages. This is the tale of Abigail (Abby) Gilbert, a lovely character. I loved her! She is feisty, sweet, considerate, and caring although a bit naive. It is so easy to connect with her. I wanted to have a pot of tea with her and ask her so many questions!

It also is the story of tall, dark, and handsome broody Captain Samuel Thatcher. “Captain” is in the horse patrol and has seen more than his share of bad things and people. He is protective and loyal. He and Abby have chemistry and tension that really make the book fun to read.

All characters are well described and easy to imagine. There is a variety of secondary ones and some were just delightful. Baby Emma provided some giggles and heartfelt moments. The kitchen ladies were all different and fun.

There were many things I learned from this novel which is something I hope for in every book. I also want to know it is a Christian novel without having to search for it. There was no question on this one. The faith theme is heavily woven throughout the book. I particularly enjoyed watching Abby’s faith journey.

This book has so much to offer. Mystery, action, inspiration, romance, history and intrigue are all within this exciting story. The author has included historical notes at the end. I highly recommend this novel and rate it 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review.

About the Book

Book: The Noble Guardian

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Christian Historical

Release date: June, 2019

A Cross-Country Trip through Regency England Brings Intrigue, Rogues, and High Adventure

The must-read conclusion to Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners Trilogy: Life couldn’t be better for Abigail Gilbert—but it’s been a long time in coming. Having lived with a family who hated her, it’s finally her time for love. Abby sets off on a journey across England to marry one of the most prestigious gentlemen in the land—until highwaymen upset her plans and threaten her life.

Horse patrol captain Samuel Thatcher arrives just in time to save Abby. But she’s simply another victim in a job he’s come to despise. Tired of the dark side of humanity, he intends to buy land and retire.

Abby pleads with him to escort her for the rest of her journey. He refuses—until she offers him something he desperately needs to achieve his goal. . .money. Delivering her safely will give him more than enough to buy property.

So begins an impossible trek for the cynical lawman and the proper lady. Each will be indelibly changed by the time they reach her betrothed, if they don’t kill one another first—or fall in love.

About the Author

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at http://www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

More from Michelle

Highwaymen Aren’t All Glamorous

Highwaymen are often romanticized in historical romances, but the truth is these fella’s were generally not compassionate thieves at all. They were cutthroat robbers who sometimes killed. Here’s a brief history so that you’re in the know.

The term “highwayman” simply means a thief who steals—usually at gunpoint—from travelers on the road. Not all, but some of those attacks turned deadly, the robbers not wishing to leave anyone behind who could identify them. Others wore masks for the same purpose.

Long, deserted stretches of roads that were main thoroughfares were the particular favorite haunts of these men. Criminals would choose remote highways that supplied regular traffic going to and from major destinations, such as Hounslow Heath, about fifteen miles outside of London.

To combat these villains, in 1805 the Bow Street Horse Patrol was created. There were about sixty men hired to protect travelers on the principal roads within sixty miles of London. Most of the men had served previously in a cavalry regiment. Their most successful achievement was to rid Hounslow Heath of highwaymen.

And that’s where I got the idea for my hero, Samuel Thatcher, in The Noble Guardian. He’s a rough and tumble man who’s tired of life and the wickedness of man. Mostly he’s just biding his time until he retires—that is until he rescues Miss Abigail Gilbert from the clutches of one of the worst offenders of all…Shankhart Robbins.

Sound like an adventure? It is. Settle back with your own copy and see what it’s like to ride the rugged heath in a carriage, bounding along—until you hear the crack of a pistol.

Enjoy!

Blog Stops

Fiction Aficionado, June 8

The Power of Words, June 8

Ashley’s Bookshelf, June 8

Inspiration Clothesline, June 9

With a Joyful Noise, June 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 9

Back Porch Reads, June 10

Among the Reads, June 10

Captive Dreams Window, June 10

Genesis 5020, June 11

Inklings and notions, June 11

Blogging With Carol, June 11

The Christian Fiction Girl, June 12

As He Leads is Joy, June 12

Connie’s History Classroom, June 12

Carpe Diem, June 13

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 13

Abba’s prayer Warrior Princess, June 13

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, June 14

Wishful Endings, June 14

Stories By Gina, June 14

Through the Fire Blogs, June 15

Just the Write Escape, June 15

Blossoms and Blessings, June 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 16

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 16

Texas Book-aholic, June 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 17

For Him and My Family, June 17

Hallie Reads, June 17

Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, June 18

janicesbookreviews, June 18

Moments, June 18

Bigreadersite, June 19

Godly Book Reviews, June 19

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, June 19

Tell Tale Book Reviews, June 20

Remembrancy, June 20

Daysong Reflections, June 20

A Reader’s Brain, June 20

All-of-a-kind Mom, June 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 21

Pause for Tales, June 21

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away a grand prize that includes a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of The Noble Guardian!!

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/e31b/the-noble-guardian-celebration-tour-giveaway

Summer By the Tides Celebrate Lit Tour & Giveaway

Posted on June 10, 2019June 8, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts:

This is a contemporary Christian romance novel by author Denise Hunter. It is filled with mystery, faith, family, secrets, and romance. Themes also include hope and forgiveness. From the first few pages my heart was totally captured and my emotions invested in this well written book. Hunter has a way with words that comes natural. Her stories sound authentic and draw readers in immediately.

This is the story of three sisters, Maddy, Emma, and Nora. They have had poor or estranged relationships for years. The tension between them is so high it seeps off of the pages. My heart hurt for these sisters. It also is the story of their Gram and her neighbor, Connor.

Each of these fabulous characters are well rounded and believable. They became fast friends and I wanted to keep reading to see what was happening in their lives. I felt like I was there with them because of the vivid descriptions and plentiful conversations.

The beach setting is perfect for a summer read. I wanted to go there after reading about it. I hope this is made into a movie. It has so many life lessons and inspiration to share. I loved seeing Maddy’s growth.

I highly recommend this beautifully written fiction by talented author Denise Hunter. It is an easy, quick, page turning read that will inspire and uplift you. My heart broke and warmed throughout it. It is a perfect book club summer selection. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy from Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to write a review. These are my own thoughts.

About the Book

Book: Summer by The Tides

Author: Denise Hunter

Genre: Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance

Release Date: May 21, 2019

From the bestselling author of The Convenient Groom (now a beloved Hallmark Original movie) comes a heartfelt story of family secrets, forgiveness, and unexpected romance.

Following a painful betrayal, Maddy Monroe’s love life is a wreck, and her restaurant career is in shambles. When her grandmother goes missing, she and her estranged sisters converge at the family beach house in Sea Haven, North Carolina. Being with uptight Nora and free-spirited Emma at the place where their family broke apart is a struggle, and undercurrents of jealousy and resentment threaten to pull the sisters under. In the midst of the storm, sparks begin to fly between Maddy and Gram’s maddening neighbor, Connor Murphy.

As the sisters pack up the family belongings, memories of idyllic, slow-paced summers are resurrected. But long-buried secrets also come to light as Maddy discovers that all was not as it appeared that last summer in Sea Haven—nor today in the seemingly perfect lives of her sisters.

As family tensions rise and Connor causes tumult in Maddy’s heart, the sisters must find a way to accept each other for the women they’ve become before the bitterness of the past destroys their hope for a future.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Denise Hunter is the internationally published bestselling author of more than 25 books, including A December Bride and The Convenient Groom, which have been adapted into original Hallmark Channel movies. She has won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader’s Choice Award, The Carol Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and is a RITA finalist. When Denise isn’t orchestrating love lives on the written page, she enjoys traveling with her family, drinking green tea, and playing drums. Denise makes her home in Indiana where she and her husband are rapidly approaching an empty nest. To learn more about Denise, visit her website DeniseHunterBooks.com; Facebook: AuthorDeniseHunter; Twitter: @DeniseAHunter; Instagram: deniseahunter.

Read an Excerpt from Summer by the Tides

MADDY MONROE WAS COWERING behind a ficus tree near the hostess station when her cell phone rang. Her hands shook as she silenced the phone before it drew the attention of the staff.

She jabbed the elevator button for the third time. “Come on, come on.” A star could be born in interstellar space, a polar valley carved by a glacier in the time it took the elevator to reach this floor. Stairs were not an option, as she was on the twentieth floor of the Waterford building and sporting heels.

She sniffled. Drat. She seemed to be crying. She swiped a hand under her eyes, heedless of her makeup.

She heard voices, Nick’s boisterous laugh. Maddy shrank deeper into the ficus and finally, finally, the elevator dinged its arrival.

“Maddy?” Noelle’s concerned voice tunneled down the hall. “Maddy, wait.”

“Oh, come on,” she muttered, tapping her fingers against her leg until the gold doors crept open. As soon as she could fit, she squeezed inside and punched the ground-floor button.

She didn’t draw a breath until the doors sealed and the elevator began to drop. She placed a palm over a heart that was threatening to beat its way out of her chest. Her white blouse clung to her back, and her skin prickled beneath her arms.

She closed her eyes, the scene that had just transpired playing out in fast-forward in her mind. And then, as if that montage weren’t painful enough, the image of Nick’s face appeared. The look on his face just before he’d kissed her good-bye last night.

Nick. She clamped her teeth together until her jaw ached.

There had been signs. Many of them, really, she was realizing now. They ranged from whisper-subtle to neon-sign obvious. But like so many other walking clichés before her, she was only seeing them in retrospect.

Maddy opened her eyes to the buttery sunlight streaming through her blinds. She scrambled for her iPhone to check the time. But as she did so, the events of yesterday washed over her like a tsunami. She didn’t have to get up at all, because she didn’t have a job anymore.

Her cell buzzed with an incoming call, and she squinted bleary-eyed at the unfamiliar number on the screen before declining it.

She drooped against her pillow, only now aware of how fat and swollen her eyes felt. Of the persistent achy lump pushing at the back of her throat. Her heartbeat made the bed quake. Her eyes burned with tears. Yesterday’s anger had faded, and something worse had filled its spot.

Yesterday she’d come home, changed into yoga pants, and worked in her little garden until she was too exhausted to do anything but flop on the sofa. She hadn’t fallen asleep until after three o’clock in the morning.

She didn’t want to talk to anyone, didn’t want to see anyone. She didn’t even want to be awake today. She pulled the covers over her head and prayed for oblivion.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 4

The Power of Words, June 4

Back Porch Reads, June 4

The Morning Chapter, June 5

A Baker’s Perspective, June 5

Worthy2Read, June 5

Carla Loves To Read, June 6

Genesis 5020, June 6

Through the Fire Blogs, June 6

Among the Reads, June 7

Quiet Quilter, June 7

For Him and My Family, June 7

The Christian Fiction Girl, June 8

cultivating us, June 8

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 8

Girls Living For God’s Glory, June 9

Moments, June 9

Inklings and notions, June 9

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 10

Coast and anchor, June 10

amandainpa, June 10

Lighthouse Academy, June 11

EmpowerMoms, June 11

Pause for Tales, June 11

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, June 12

For The Love of Books, June 12

Just the Write Escape, June 12

All-of-a-kind Mom, June 13

Texas Book-aholic, June 13

Hallie Reads, June 13

2014 and Beyond, June 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 14

Simple Harvest Reads, June 14

Living Life Free In Christ, June 15

janicesbookreviews, June 15

Vicky Sluiter, June 15

Have A Wonderful Day, June 16

A Reader’s Brain, June 16

To Everything A Season, June 16

Lukewarm Tea, June 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 17

Daysong Reflections, June 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Denise is giving away a finished copy of Summer by the Tides!!

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/e541/summer-by-the-tides-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Refuge by Ann Gabhart, Book Review and Recipe

Posted on June 8, 2019June 8, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Refuge by storyteller extraordinaire, author Ann Garbart, is a delicious serving of Christian historical romance. Set in the Shaker Village at Harmony Hill, Kentucky in 1850’s, this 391 page paperback is wonderful! I found it to be a page turning delight.

If you are not familiar with the Shaker religion, this book will give you a quick lesson. I love fiction books that teach me new things. However, this time I was well acquainted with the strange sect that believed in celibacy and did not believe in marriage. I still shook my head in disbelief and was frustrated with them even though I knew what to expect.

Author Gabhart has a magical way with telling a tale. Actually, it is a God given talent. Her words are woven together and I am spellbound. Within the first few paragraphs I am walking inside the book and captivated. She teaches me things that I don’t know and always has a healthy dose of faith and inspiration included in the story. These are two of my favorite things, actually must haves, in historical Christian fiction.

This book has been well researched. The author knows a lot about the Shakers, and it is evident she has visited their historic village. Characters are very well defined and easy to imagine. I loved feisty Leatrice, daughter of widower Flynn. Darcie caught my heart and my emotions. At times I felt trapped like she did with the Shakers. The variety of personalities in the Shaker sisters was delightful and true to life, I’m certain.

This is a book about romance, faith, trusting God, and friendship. There are some twists and turns to keep readers on their toes. Book Clubs will need to come up with their own discussion questions as it does not include any.

I highly recommend this well written novel. Learning about the Shakers is worth reading it, but there is so much more to glean. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy from the publisher, but was under no obligation to write a review. These are my own, honest thoughts.

About the Book:

When Darcie and Walter Goodwin hear of a new cholera epidemic sweeping the area, they join the Shakers whose villages seem immune to the disease. It’s meant to be a temporary stay, but Walter is killed in a riverboat accident. With no family and no money, Darcie has little choice but to stay with the Shakers. To complicate matters, she is expecting a baby conceived before she and her husband came to the Shaker village. Marital relationships are considered sinful in this celibate community, putting Darcie in a unique–and lonely–position. Can the arrival of widower Flynn Keller and his headstrong daughter offer Darcie the hope of happiness . . . and family?

Ann H. Gabhart returns to the enigmatic world of the Shakers in this emotional exploration of the power of love and the bond of family.

About the Author:

Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several Shaker novels–The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted–as well as other historical novels, including Angel Sister, These Healing Hills, and River to Redemption. She and her husband live on a farm a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Ann enjoys discovering the everyday wonders of nature while hiking in her farm’s fields and woods with her grandchildren and her dog, Frankie. Learn more at http://www.annhgabhart.com.

Recipe Time by Nyla Kay:

My paternal grandparents lived near Shaker Town so I have many memories of going there to eat with them. Among the recipes I accumulated is this one for Shaker Lemon Pie. It is so tasty and very different. The key is to slice your lemons extremely thin.

Shaker Lemon Pie

2 lemons (about 9 oz. each), sliced paper thin (rind and all)
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 double pie crust

Directions

Combine lemon slices and sugar in a shallow bowl; let stand until lemon slices are juicy, 4 hours or overnight. Remove any seeds that float to the surface.

Preheat oven to 450°F. Stir eggs into lemon mixture thoroughly.

Line a 9-inch pie plate with 1 pie crust. Pour lemon mixture into shell. Cover with top crust, and crimp edges. Cut decorative steam vents in top crust.

Bake at 450°F for 15 minutes. Without removing pie from oven, reduce temperature to 350°F. Bake until a knife inserted in center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Cover pie crust edges with aluminum foil, if becoming too brown.