Laura’s Shadow Celebrate Lit Book Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Laura’s Shadow by storyteller extraordinaire, Allison Pittman, was a not a thing what I was expecting, but I was not exactly sure what to expect. This is the ninth book in Barbour Publishing’s Doors to the Past, dual time series. Each installment is a stand-alone read. I have really enjoy this series.

Allison Pittman is a gifted wordsmith. Her stories are unique and often a bit gritty. She brought the 1890s and 1970s to life on the pages of her novel. I was captivated by her engaging story. This was a riveting page-turner, and I kept reading long into the night. I loved it.

The Laura in the book’s title refers to Laura Ingalls Wilder. In the 1890s section, we meet siblings Mariah and Charles. They are a close brother and sister pair used to taking care of each other. We briefly meet their teacher, Laura Ingalls. Contrary to what I have always thought, this book provides a view that she is not liked by everyone.

We meet Trixie, a newspaper comic strip creator, along with her mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. The four generations of women in that family each have had their own battles and have proven to be resilient. Trixie is able to learn some surprising family secrets after being called home.

There are so many life and spiritual lessons tucked into this remarkable book. This story has many twists to it that kept me guessing. Even though I finished this book days again it is still lingering in my mind.

I highly recommend this book. If you belong to a book club or reading group, this would be a fantastic selection. There is so much to discuss. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Laura’s Shadow

Author: Allison Pittman

Genre: Christian/Historical/Romance

Release date: August 1, 2022

Family Secrets Spill One Conversation at a Time

Visit historic American landmarks through the Doors to the Past series. History and today collide in stories full of mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance.

De Smet, South Dakota—1890 
Young women growing up in DeSmet live by two rules: don’t go out in a snowstorm and don’t give your heart to Cap Garland. Young Mariah Patterson only managed to obey one. Orphaned and having devoted her youth to scrapping out a life with her brother Charles, Mariah finds herself with no interesting suitors or means of support. Throwing caution to the wind, she seizes an opportunity to lay her feelings at Cap’s feet, even though she knows Cap sees the world through the torch he carries for Laura Ingalls. Mariah is certain her love for Cap will be strong enough to break both bonds, and she’s willing to risk everything to prove it.

De Smet, South Dakota—1974 
Trixie Gowan is the fourth generation of living Gowan women residing in the sprawling farmhouse on the outskirts of De Smet. Well, former resident. She’s recently moved to Minneapolis, where she writes ads for a neighborhood paper edited by Ron Tumble. She might live and work in the city, but her co-workers still call her Prairie Girl. Thus the inspiration for her comic strip—“Lost Laura”—in which a bespectacled girl in a calico dress tries to make her way in the city. The name is a quiet rebellion having grown up in a household where she’d been forbidden to mention the name, Laura Ingalls. But when her great-grandmother Mariah’s declining health brings Trixie home for a visit, two things might just keep her there: the bedside manner of Dr. Campbell Carter and the family secret that seems to be spilling from GG’s lips one conversation at a time.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Allison Pittman is the author of more than a dozen critically acclaimed novels and a four-time Christy finalist—twice for her Sister Wife series, once for All for a Story from her take on the Roaring Twenties and most recently for the critically acclaimed The Seamstress which takes a cameo character from the Dickens’ classic A Tale of Two Cities and flourishes her to life amidst the French Revolution. She lives in San Antonio, Texas, blissfully sharing an empty nest with her husband, Mike. Connect with her on Facebook (Allison Pittman Author), Twitter (@allisonkpittman) or her website, allisonkpittman.com.

More from Allison

I can credit Laura Ingalls Wilder for just about every aspect of my identity. I’m a reader because I read her books over and over and over again, checking them out from my little elementary school library. I can still see them—last bookcase, bottom shelf. During the summer, I checked them out from the Bookmobile, and one magical Christmas, I received my own set. The well-worn, yellow paperbacks have a place of honor in my office: top shelf, center stage. It was amazing to my eight-year-old self that I could pick up Little House in the Big Woods, skip the dull parts, and jump straight to These Happy Golden Years in a single afternoon.

Looking at Laura’s writing now (as I often do), I realize I spent my childhood absorbing the art of telling a story. Her books masterfully string meaningful vignettes within an over-arching conflict. She creates stories-within-a-story-within-a-story whenever Pa launches into a tall tale, and minor characters come to life no matter how brief their appearance. (Aunt Docia, anyone?)

When I first came up with the concept of writing a story set in the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I knew I couldn’t bring Laura herself in as a character. There’s a sacredness to her story, and I wouldn’t dream of inserting myself into the cannon of her pages. But—I thought—surely she had peers who grew up alongside her, classmates who also hated Miss Wilder, young men who might have set their own cap for her, townsfolk who remembered the vibrant young woman with the button-brown eyes and dark curls. And then I pondered further: maybe there was another side to Laura—a side that she kept from the romanticized ideal skipping through the pages of her books. My first thought was to create a fictional De Smet town girl, but then…

In researching and reading Pioneer Girl, The Annotated Autobiography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I came across a bit of information that brought the story to life for me. In These Happy Golden Years, Laura teaches her first class: five students, two families. And while the “Brewster” children are documented in other sources, the Harrison children are not. There are no census records, land deeds, or any official documents to support the identity of Charles and Martha as they are depicted in the novel. And so, it clicked. If Laura could fictionalize these people, well, then, so could I. Thus Martha Harrison was lifted from those pages, renamed Mariah, and given a new life and a new story in mine.

Writing Laura’s Shadow allowed me to indulge in a few favorite directions. First, I’m fascinated with the idea of extreme longevity (showcased in my novel All for a Song), and creating a character whose lifespan stretches from homesteading to disco was delightful. My Mariah chafes at the romanticized depiction of pioneer life, telling us in her old age that it was really more of a daily struggle for survival. I also enjoyed exploring the family dynamic of four generations of women and how each generation faced the  same battles and fought them so, so differently. Finally—and this is what truly speaks to my fourth-grade self…

You know that Elton John song, “Your Song” with the lyrics, “I hope you don’t mind that I put down in words…” Well, I got to put down in words my lifelong crush on Cap Garland. Sure, Almonzo is great and everything, but I always thought Cap was more exciting. More fun. More…more. Bringing him to life in this book set my old heart racing. My research for this novel took me to De Smet, and to his gravesite, where I spoke this story to his stone. I like to think he’d approve, and I hope all of the Laura fans will join me in this tale and let their imaginations run wild.

Blog Stops

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 30

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , August 31

Texas Book-aholic, August 31

Genesis 5020, September 1

Inklings and notions, September 1

The Avid Reader, September 2

For Him and My Family, September 2

deb’s Book Review, September 3

Simple Harvest Reads, September 3 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 4

Blogging With Carol, September 4

Betti Mace, September 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 5

Blossoms and Blessings, September 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 6

lakesidelivingsite, September 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 7

Connie’s History Classroom, September 8

Mary Hake, September 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 9

Through the Fire Blogs, September 9

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 10

Bigreadersite, September 11

Pause for Tales, September 11

For the Love of Literature, September 12

Labor Not in Vain, September 12

Remembrancy, September 13

To Everything There Is A Season, September 13

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/210cb/laura-s-shadow-celebration-tour-giveaway

Connecting with Christ 52 Weekly Devotions Celebrate Lit Book Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Connecting with Christ: 52 Weekly Devotionals to Nurture Spiritual Growth by editor Yolonda Tonette Sanders is a beautiful book of devotions by various contributors. Devotionals are some of my favorite books. I do have problems with weekly ones because it is difficult for me to wait an entire week between reading them!

This is a wonderful devotional. It is nice how the book was divided into twelve sections with different themes. They included Renewal, Love, Revival, Promises, Caring, Provision, and six more. Each devotion begins with a title, author, and corresponding scripture. Follow those is the devotion which ends in a prayer. The rest of that page and next one are blank lines for your personal reflection. The entire book has been well thought, organized, and written in an easy to understand way.

I loved the voices of the different authors. Each one brought a heartfelt story. So many of the chapters made me stop and think about things. In fact, I pondered the devotions long after reading them. It is a thought-provoking book that will help readers in their journey to become closer to Jesus. I will definitely read it again.

I highly recommend it. This would make a great Christmas present for a group that meets weekly. The devotions are touching and great for discussion. With it being a weekly devotional, this is perfect for a busy person. I loved it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Connecting With Christ

Editor: Yolonda Tonette Sanders

Genre: Nonfiction, Inspirational

Release date: November 30, 2021

Self-care is a buzzword often mentioned when people seek to optimize their health. Suggested self-care practices tend to include activities such as exercising, getting a massage, or eating a healthy diet. While all of these actions have their place, none of them are sufficient enough to provide the soul-care we need to maximize our self-care. Self-care without soul-care equates to temporary solutions that leave us searching for the next new thing. However, when Christ becomes the center of our holistic health journey, we not only find fulfillment in Him but also a dependency on and trust in Him to truly live our best lives-emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Editor

Yolonda Tonette Sanders is the CEO of Yo Productions, LLC and co-founder of the Faith & Fellowship Book Festival. Her writing portfolio includes academic papers, novels, short stories, poems, and other creative works. She is an editor for a national publication, a professor, and serves on several boards and associations. Yolonda holds two bachelor’s degrees, a master’s degree, and is currently completing her Ph.D. in organizational leadership. She treasures her relationships with family and close friends. Yolonda is blessed to be the wife of David; mother of two adults, Tre and Tia; “Nini” to her grandchildren, Khari and Khia; daughter of Eddie; sister to Milton; and dog mom to Paco.

More from Yolonda

Have you ever started a daily devotional but didn’t finish because you found yourself getting behind schedule and frustrated? One missed day turns into two, then the missed days pile on until we often do one of two things: a) have a marathon session to “make-up” the missed days’ readings; or b) abandon the devotional altogether. Neither of these options help with our spiritual growth. When we have marathon sessions to catch up, reading the devotional becomes a checklist item instead of us taking the time to glean the spiritual message or lesson to be learned. When we abandon reading the devotional, we miss everything still. Those great books end up collecting dust until we try again the next year only to repeat the same process.

Yep, I’ve been there! Having had such experiences, I sought to create a devotional that people could actually finish. Plus, let’s face it . . . we should read our Bibles every day, but devotionals are optional. Yet, sometimes people replace devotionals with reading the Bible. I didn’t want that either! So, Connecting with Christ is a 52-week devotional with just one reading each week. Not only was this a practical approach, but it was also purposeful. The desire behind this technique is for readers to have time to meditate on Scripture! Connecting with Christ is a devotional that readers can and will complete that will inspire them to dig more into the Word!

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 25

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 26

Mary Hake, August 26

Texas Book-aholic, August 27

Inklings and notions, August 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 29

For Him and My Family, August 30

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 31

deb’s Book Review, September 1

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 2

Older & Smarter?, September 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 5

Cats in the Cradle Blog, September 6

Divine Perspective, September 6

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 7

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/210c8/connecting-with-christ-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Apple Creek Announcement Book Review

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Apple Creek Announcement is book three in the Creektown Discovery series by best selling author Wanda Brunstetter.  This is a Amish contemporary series that is so interesting. If you have not read the first two you will be able to follow this one easily. The other two are just as marvelous as this one.

Two of the series favorites are back again. I love Lois and Orley as well as their antique store. In fact, they are so lovable I wish they had a series dedicated to their back story and future.

This book is the story of Andrea and Brandon. He is a veterinarian and she is a piano teacher and artist. They are newly engaged and have a few issues. Some of the hiccups are minor and others are not. They each write a letter to the newspaper advice column Dear Caroline wanting help. Brandon strikes up a friendship with Orley and asks for his advice, also.

Author Brunstetter has written another page turning story. I was immediately captivated and because engrossed in the tale and characters. At times I even wanted to offer advice. I loved the fact that the engaged couple had a cat and dog that spatted. The author writes believable characters and situations. The dialog was authentic for Amish and taught me a few new words. There are mystery, redemption, humor, conundrums, family issues, adoption, wedding issues, and cute animals.

There are so many life and spiritual lessons in this book. This is a story of love, hope, faith, family, forgiveness and perseverance. As you read make sure you let those messages sink in. After you have read the book, you will want to go back and ponder the lessons. Be sure to catch the recipes at the end after the story.

I highly recommend this book and the other two. It would make a nice selection for a book club. The entire series would be a great choice for that. Fans of contemporary fiction will enjoy this book. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided but these are my honest words.

Crossfire by Lynette Eason Book Review

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Crossfire is Book #2 in the Extreme Measures Series by award winning author Lynette Eason. It is a contemporary, mystery, suspense, Christian, romance fiction that is just riveting. Action begins on page one and captured my attention immediately.

Author Eason is a talented storyteller. She is masterful in the art of mystery and suspense.  As I read I was certain I had something figured out only to have a twist prove me wrong. Her characters are realistic and believable. Friends are tried and true while bad guys are vicious villains. I was so engrossed in the characters and story that I did not want to stop reading this page turning book.

This is the story of special agent Julianna Jameson, a top-notch negotiator, and former Army Ranger sniper Clay Fox. She gets called in to negotiate a courtroom hostage situation. Clay’s sister, Reese, is one of the hostage. 

There are so many life and spiritual lessons woven into this captivating story. Good verses evil, darkness verses light, hope, trust, faith, family, love, revenge, and redemption are all tackled in this story. It is a intense story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The faith element of healing past mistakes and accepting God’s forgiveness was a breath of fresh air. The way the characters felt after receiving God’s forgiveness was beautiful. They illustrated that they could begin again without the weight of the world and past mistakes on their shoulders. It was so inspiring. I was encouraged by the way they asked God for help in the small and big details of their lives.

I highly recommend this amazing, intense book to all readers! It’s so intriguing that you will not want to put it down until the end. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by the publisher, but these are my honest words.

Matters of the Heart Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Matters of the Heart: A Shumard Oak Bend Novel, is Book 3 in the Discerning God’s Best Series by author Heidi Gray McGill. This is a Christian historical novel that does not hide its Christian message. Brava author McGill! I adore Christian novels where the inspirational and faith messages are not hidden or diluted. If you have not read the first two books in this series, you will be able to follow alone just fine. It makes a nice stand alone book. You will, however, be missing two great back stories that are equally as wonderful as this one.

The author has done a wonderful job. The storyline is engaging. I was immediately invested in the story and characters. There were a few twists and turns thrown in for surprises. Characters are believable. They are down to earth and easily relatable. Descriptions were on point and took me back in time to 1866 Missouri. The writing style is very nice. The story is told from two different points of view. Each chapter is clearly noted as to whose it is.

This is the story of feisty Irish immigrant Katie Murphy and Finnish immigrant Hans Korhonen who fought in the Civil War. Each are searching for a new beginning. These characters are open and had me emotionally invested. Katie was a fun, fireball. She was determined to follow God and His plan for her. Hans is not sure about God. He is goes back and forth between being closed off to open and lovable.

I thought this was an extremely entertaining and inspirational read. The more I read, the more I felt that I was part of the community. The characters felt like friends. A few were quirky and provided humor. It was very enjoyable.

I highly recommend Matters of the Heart. It gets a 4 star rating from me. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest thoughts.

About the Book

Book: Matters of the Heart

Author: Heidi Gray McGill

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: July 15, 2022

When those experiencing the same fate she endured show up at her doorstep…

Katie determines to be their champion, no matter the fallout.

Will the man who fought for the other side also fight for her?

Unconventional Katie empathizes with the widows and orphans of the Civil War, searching for a place to call home in Shumard Oak Bend. But with no one to help her, she’ll need to do it secretly, a challenge she readily accepts. She’s taken charge before, and she’ll do it again, no matter who she has to outwit to get the job done.

He vowed to be his own man and stop doing everyone else’s bidding. But he follows orders when a pair of emerald green eyes, blazing red hair, and freckles that dance on the bridge of a pert nose conscript him to duty. Be his own man. Who is he kidding? Skunks don’t change their stripes. They leave disasters in their wake wherever they go, just like him.

Overcoming personal obstacles and finding your true self doesn’t mean going it alone. Yet the answer isn’t always in the one you seek.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Heidi is an optimist who chooses to find the silver lining in life’s clouds of doubt. This plays out in her writing. Her ability to weave scripture seamlessly into the lives of her characters will uplift and encourage you, while her masterful storytelling will keep you turning page after page and wishing for more.

Heidi lives with her husband of thirty years near Charlotte, NC. When she isn’t writing, you will find her outside playing with her two grandsons, walking, scrapbooking, reading, cooking, traveling, or finding an excuse to have an outing with a girlfriend.

Fusing Faith and Fiction™

True Christian Fiction. Relatable Characters. Life-changing stories.

More from Heidi

Where did the idea for Matters of the Heart originate?

Before I was an author, I was the founder and director of an English as a Second Language ministry. The program touched the lives of students from 35 different countries. Regardless of culture, religion, language, or age, I found a substantial similarity in these students—they all wanted to improve their lot in life and that of their children.

Stories abounded of walks across deserts, financial hardships, desperate attempts to explain emergencies to medical professionals or law enforcement, failed verbal connections with schoolteachers, and an inability to obtain work because of their lack of language skills. Prejudice and distrust blocked them, culture shock took them outside their comfort zones, and the urgent need to survive made them scramble to dig deep inside and find creative ways to secure shelter and put food on their tables.

It wasn’t that these immigrants weren’t capable of achieving success. In their home countries, vocations varied from chemist and biologist with PhDs, to teachers, lawyers, and medical professionals. Others came from poverty and had little education but were not afraid of hard work, long hours, and low pay. They were tenacious, and they worked with relentless determination and a bullheaded resolve to achieve their goals. They relied on each other and soaked in everything around them in their desire to assimilate into the American culture and find a new place to belong.

Immigrants in the late 1800s were not much different. Individuals came to improve their lot in life and be a part of the greatest country in the world. In Matters of the Heart, Hans Korhonen left Finland with his brothers to take advantage of the land grants. Together, they worked to establish a farm large enough to sustain four families and support troops during the Civil War. Yet, in their desire to belong and give back to our great nation, Hans’s idyllic life changed through his service as a Union soldier.

Kathleen Murphy, or Katie, came to the United States to escape a life of extreme poverty and abuse in Ireland. Working in her aunt and uncle’s boarding offered more than a job. It provided the love and support of a family. Katie rose from her previous station and started fresh with hope on the horizon. She found a source of ministry that gave her life a purpose she’d not had before.

My association with my former ESL students helped me develop the characters in this book into individuals with which readers can identify.

Join Katie and Hans as they establish themselves in their new home of Shumard Oak Bend.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 5

Texas Book-aholic, August 6

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, August 6

Inklings and notions, August 7

lakesidelivingsite, August 8

For Him and My Family, August 9

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 11

Blossoms and Blessings, August 12

deb’s Book Review, August 12

Connie’s History Classroom, August 13

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 14

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 15

Pause for Tales, August 16

Truth and Grace HomeschoolAcademy, August 17

To Everything There Is A Season, August 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Heidi is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and signed copy of the first three books in the series!!

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/2070c/matters-of-the-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

Grace Along the Mountain Trail Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Grace Along the Mountain Trail by bestselling author Misty M. Beller is Book 8 in her Call of the Rockies Series. This is a Christian historical romance adventure novel. If you haven’t read the others in the series, you can still read this and follow along without problems. It makes a nice standalone.

Set in the 1830s this is this story of Lola Cameron. She travels out West to meet her half brother that she just learned she had. Her father neglected to share that news with her, but included a contingency in his will that Lola must find him. The journey out west over the mountains is beautiful yet dangerous. 

I adore author Beller’s books. Her characters are realistic and easy to engage. There is always a tread of Christian inspiration woven throughout the entire story. This tale had inspiration, drama, adventure, romance, faith, hope, fear, and redemption. It is a lovely story with brave, resilient characters. The writing is so well done that I was immediately engaged and my attention help as I turned the pages until the end. There were a few surprises that kept me reading even when I needed to stop.

At the end of the book, there are no discussion questions, but there is a preview to Calm in the Mountain Storm. It’s the next book in the series. I highly recommend Grace on the Mountain Trail. It is a captivating historical fiction. I gladly give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, true words.

About the Book

Book: Grace in the Mountain Trail

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre:Christian Historical Romance

Release date: July 12, 2022

This epic journey is her last hope to find her lost brother—the only family she has left.

When Lola Carson’s father died, his last words spoke of a half-brother she’d never known about. And now, to claim her own inheritance and come to terms with her father’s secret life, she must find this mysterious man—whose last known whereabouts are somewhere west of the wild Rocky Mountains. After hiring family friends to accompany her on the trek, she sets out for a wilderness few white women have ever seen. She doesn’t expect the majestic peaks to captivate her so, nor the half-dead brave they find on one of the slopes.

White Owl left his village and his broken heart behind when he set out for a fresh start. His newfound faith is the one anchor in his life. He’s desperate to learn more about the God he’s committed to follow and become an interpreter for the missionaries who led him to faith. But he barely starts his journey when a hunting accident nearly kills him. The woman who discovers him in the midst of his fevered delirium seems to be a gift from above.

But the more White Owl learns about Lola’s companions and her dangerous quest, the more he realizes his own calling is clear—to take her safely to her brother. The question is, will he have to sacrifice more than his heart to accomplish that goal?

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 to get 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.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

More from Misty

Is this the book for you? 

With so many books out there, it’s sometimes hard to know if a new book will be the right fit for you or not. I thought it might be fun to share some highlights that may help you know if you’d like to read Grace on the Mountain Trail. 

If you…

  • Love adventure and don’t mind being snowed in (at least in your imagination as you sit snuggled in your comfortable house).
  • Fall for Native American heroes who are, yes, strong and capable, but also searching for a fresh start and eager to grow in their fledgling faith.
  • Find unusual and remote settings fascinating, especially the Rocky Mountains!
  • Enjoy historical detail and are eager to live vicariously in the early 1800s Montana frontier.

What to expect from Grace on the Mountain Trail?

  • Emotion-rich sweet romance.
  • Native American heroes who know how to be both tough and gentle.
  • The grandeur of the Montana Rockies.
  • Tough heroines who do what needs to be done.
  • Adventure that will keep you turning pages.
  • A peek at one of our favorite characters from earlier in the series!

If Grace on the Mountain Trail sounds like the right fit for you, I pray you love Lola and White Owl’s story!

Blessings!

Misty

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, August 1

Mary Hake, August 1

Inklings and notions, August 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 2

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 3

Jeanette’s Thoughts, August 4

The Book Club Network, August 4

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 5

Cover Lover Book Review, August 5

Betti Mace, August 6

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 6

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 7

Writing From the Heart Land, August 8

deb’s Book Review, August 8

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 9

For Him and My Family, August 9

Connie’s History Classroom, August 10

Lilys’ Book Reviews, August 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 11

Holly’s Book Corner, August 11

Blossoms and Blessings, August 12

Life, Love, Writing, August 12

Pause for Tales, August 13

Splashes of Joy, August 14

Sylvan Musings, August 14

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/21360/grace-on-the-mountain-trail-celebration-tour-giveaway

All that is Hidden Book Review

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

All that is Hidden by author Laura DeNooyer is a Christian historical novel about two siblings. Set in late 1960’s Smoky Mountains, it is heavy with southern charm and family issues. In June, the author was named a semi-finalist for All That Is Hidden in Serious Writer’s “Book of the Decade” contest. Brava!

This is the first book that I have read by this author. While I love historical fiction, I prefer the 1800s or early 1900s. It took me a while to become invested in this book and its characters. If that happens to you, just keep reading.

This is the tale of Tina, a feisty 10 year old tomboy, and her family. Tina grows up and breaks the mold by learning to play baseball with the boys. Her brother, Nick, shares a lot of antics with her.

The story takes a turn when secrets are brought to light. What one was a safe, simple life is challenged. This story is filled with life lessons, bits of humor, emotions, twists and turns, family drama, and an abundance of Appalachian folklore.

The author has a nice style of writing. Her details and descriptions took me back to the Mountains in a time when this country was experiencing some unrest. The conversations sounded authentic. Characters were believable and interesting. The one downside is that there seemed to be two or three subplots going on, also. A few times I had trouble following along.

I recommend this to readers that enjoy historical fiction set in the mid 1900s or mountains. If you are a baseball fan, you will enjoy all of that. It receives a 4 out of 5 star rating from me. I received a complimentary copy from the author, but these are my honest words.

About Author Laura DeNooyer:

As a Michigan native, Laura earned a BA in Education and Fine Arts at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, then taught school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for nine years. She pioneered the middle school and high school art program, wrote curriculum, taught creative writing, and coached volleyball.

Over twenty years later, Laura started her own teaching and tutoring business from home, working with home schoolers the past sixteen years. Between these two teaching jobs, she and her husband raised four children. In her spare time, Laura wrote and published her first novel and received awards for other stories.

Storytelling through novels is her passion, especially character-driven stories featuring complex relationships, whether historical fiction or a fairy tale setting.

Laura has contributed to The Baum Bugle periodical and hosts a blog to encourage creativity and spur imagination, wherever they are found. https://lauradenooyer.com

In Honor’s Defense Book Review and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

In Honor’s Defense is the final book in the Hanger’s Horsemen Series by award winning author Karen Witemeyer. She is an exquisite storyteller, and I always enjoy her books. I was immediately captured by this story and its characters.

This is the story of Luke, a strong godly man who falls for a woman he must protect from harm. It is also the story of Damaris, a strong, feisty woman. She moves to Texas to take care of her late brother’s teenage son and finds trouble. Was her brother killed?

The plot is excellent allowing the story to move at a nice pace and the characters to develop. It stays interesting with mystery, cattle rustling, an angry teen with grief over his father’s death, romance, and adventure. There is a faith message woven throughout the book as well as some life lessons. At times the drama and action are lightened by humor. Some twists and turns had me guessing. There are many quote-worthy words in this novel. Damaris said this one: “A person of integrity always lives up to his or her word.”

If you haven’t read the other books in this series, this book can easily be read as a stand-alone. I highly recommend it and the author. Witemeyer always produces a captivating masterpiece, including In Honor’s Defense. It receives 5 out of 5 stars from this reader. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: In Honor’s Defense

Author: Karen Witemeyer

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: June 7, 2022

Luke Davenport has been fighting all his life–for respect, for country, and for those unable to fight for themselves. But now that his Horsemen brothers are domesticated, he’s left alone to battle the wildness within. When an opportunity arises to take a job on his own, tracking down a group of rustlers, he jumps at the chance.

Damaris Baxter has mastered the art of invisibility. Plain and quiet, she hides in books and needlework, content to be overlooked. Until her brother dies suddenly, leaving her custody of her nephew. She moves to Texas to care for Nathaniel, determined to create the family for herself that she never thought she’d have and to give him the family he desperately needs.

When Nate finds himself knee-deep in trouble, Luke’s attempt to protect him leaves Damaris feeling indebted to the Horseman. But suspicions grow regarding the mysterious death of Damaris’s brother. And the more questions they ask, the more danger appears, threatening the family Luke may be unable to live without.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers’ Favorite Christian Romance Author in 2019 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and gospel hymn singer who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she’s on deadline.

More from Karen

Meet Luke and Damaris

As the Hanger’s Horsemen series comes to a close, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Luke Davenport and Damaris Baxter. If you haven’t read the other books in this series, don’t worry. This one stands on its own just fine.

Luke

Luke Davenport is a former cavalry officer who is part of an elite squad of men known as Hanger’s Horsemen. Haunted by the horrors of war, this group of Texas legends has spent the last few years fighting for justice on behalf of those who cannot fight for themselves. Luke is Matthew Hanger’s right-hand man, but when Matt retires the Horsemen in favor of a more settled life with his new wife, Luke is left feeling adrift. So when a solo job comes his way to track down rustled cattle, he jumps at the opportunity.

Known for his strength, his size, and his skill with his fists, I modeled Luke after a pair of football players, Howie Long and JJ Watt. He’s a man of action with a bit of wildness inside, yet his ability to memorize Scripture earned him the nickname Preach. He’s a godly man with scars, seeking to find his place as his Horsemen brothers move on to new phases of life.

 Damaris 

Damaris Baxter has been invisible her entire life. Plain of face and quiet of manner, she it’s the epitome of unremarkable. While she dares heroic feats and grand adventures between the covers of her favorite books, life outside the pages consists of little more than needlework and dull conversation with her great aunt. Until her brother dies under suspicious circumstances and she travels to Texas to care for her nephew. Determined that the “Texas Damaris” will be bolder and braver than her former self, she sets out to win the heart of a grieving boy and ends up mixed up in a dangerous murder plot with a handsome cowboy who actually sees her.

When creating Damaris’s character, I gave her two of my favorite hobbies—reading and cross-stitching. She shares other similarities with me as well. She’s a quiet person who dislikes making waves, but when family needs her, there’s nothing she won’t do to help. Her questionable baking skills might also have found some inspiration in my personal experience. Just ask my husband about my famous transparent chocolate chip cookies. 

Opposites Attract?

I love to explore what brings people together, and while it’s a common idea that opposites attract, I’ve always believed that there must be some core commonalities beneath the differences to bind a couple together for a lifetime. So, while Luke and Damaris seem to be stark opposites—he an adventure-seeking soldier used to solving problems with guns and fists; she a quiet, proper lady used to escaping problems with books and needlework—they actually have several core commonalities. They both crave belonging and family, they both value God’s Word, and they both have a strong, protective instinct toward those they care about. This core common ground is what serves as the foundation for their relationship.

Now that you’ve been introduced to Luke and Damaris, I hope you’ll join them on the adventure that leads them to love.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 25

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 27

Book Looks by Lisa, June 27

Where Faith and Books Meet, June 27

Bliss, Books & Jewels, June 28

Daysong Reflections, June 28

For Him and My Family, June 29

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 29

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 30

Pause for Tales, June 30

lakesidelivingsite, June 30

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, July 1

Sylvan Musings, July 1

deb’s Book Review, July 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 2

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, July 2

Babbling BeckyL’s Book Impressions, July 3

Bizwings Blog, July 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, July 4 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, July 4

Inklings and notions, July 5

Simple Harvest Reads, July 5 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Connie’s History Classroom, July 6

SodbusterLiving, July 6

Texas Book-aholic, July 7

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, July 7

Through the Fire Blogs, July 7

Splashes of Joy, July 8

Melissa’s Bookshelf, July 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away a Hanger’s Horsemen prize bundle consisting of autographed copies of all three books in the series, a custom mug, and Horsemen swag!! (U.S. Only)

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/1f45c/in-honor-s-defense-celebration-tour-giveaway

Much Ado About Persuasion Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Much Ado About Persuasion is a Christian historical, retelling of a mixture of two books. Author Barbara Cornthwaite has taken books by authors Jane Austen and William Shakespeare and blended them into one delightful story. The title might have given this away.

This novel is a very imaginative retelling of the combined stories of Persuasion by Jane Austen and Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare. For me, the way the author overlapped these two stories made an interesting new tale. Both stories were twisted and shaped to become a new combined one.

I enjoyed the writing style of the author. The language was period correct. Her characters were researched and loosely based on the originals. The way the novel is written reminds me of the style of Jane Austen. 

It took me a while to become invested in the story and characters. There are many different characters as well as storylines. It is not a book to read lightly. I needed to pay attention to get everything straight at first.

Scripture and faith are included along with multiple timeless life lessons. I found clever humor in places and some emotional bits. All in all it is a nice book. Shakespeare and Austen fans will enjoy it. Readers that like the combination of two books made into one will, also. For me, I prefer my stories separate, but I do recommend this one. It gets a 4 out of 5 star rating. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Much Ado About Persuasion

Author: Barbara Cornthwaite

Genre: Historical/Jane Austen Retelling

Release date: May 3, 2022

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Some duel with swords, others with ships. In love, however, they duel with hearts.

When Sir Walter Elliot, secret admirer of the Navy, invites officers to visit his estate, what could be more natural than for his two daughters to find themselves in love?

Elizabeth Elliot’s legendary, bitter pride clashes with Admiral Baldwin’s stubborn conceit until any hope of a match seems impossible. They say love conquers all, but does it?

All looks hopeful for Anne Elliot and the dashing Captain Wentworth, but when a cousin steps in and sets evil plans into motion, is their love enough to withstand the storm, or is it best to let the captain sail that ship… alone?

Shakespeare’s Much Ado about Nothing meets Jane Austen’s Persuasion in this story about trust, disappointment, and disguises.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Barbara-c-600x400

Barbara Cornthwaite lives in the middle of Ireland with her husband and children. She taught college English before “retiring” to do something she loves far more; her days are now filled with homeschooling, trying to keep the house tidy (a losing battle), and trying to stay warm in the damp Irish climate (also a losing battle). She is surrounded by medieval castles, picturesque flocks of sheep, and ancient stone monuments. These things are unappreciated by her six children, who are more impressed by traffic jams, skyscrapers, and hot weather.

More from Barbara

I discovered Jane Austen in college when I was required to read Pride and Prejudice. This was in the dark ages before the famous adaptations, and I knew nothing about the storyline. In fact, I expected it to be depressing, probably because the title sounded similar to War and Peace. It was a delightful surprise to be charmed by the novel, and I went on to read all Austen’s other books on my own. Each of them have a special place in my heart. I love Emma so much that I wrote a two-book parallel novel for it (the George Knightley, Esquire series). I also have novellas based on Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park and Emma in the A Very Austen anthologies. This book, however, is the first thing I’ve written based on Persuasion.

Shakespeare I met in high school, and furthered my acquaintance with him in college. Much Ado About Nothing is, I think, my favorite of his plays (although there are several close contenders for the top spot). His grasp of character is unmatched, and his language, even after five hundred years, is striking.

Mixing the stories of these two authors has been great fun, and redeeming a couple of characters who didn’t learn anything from their mistakes in the original stories gives my version a spiritual twist. I hope you enjoy it!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 17

Texas Book-aholic, June 18

Miriam Jacob, June 18

A Reader’s Brain, June 19

Britt Reads Fiction, June 20

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 20

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , June 21

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 22

For Him and My Family, June 22

Inklings and notions, June 23

deb’s Book Review, June 24

Of Blades and Thorns, June 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 25

Connie’s History Classroom, June 26

Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen, June 26

She Lives To Read, June 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 28

Sylvan Musings, June 28

Labor Not in Vain, June 29

Back Porch Reads, June 30

Melissa’s Bookshelf, June 30

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/1eff5/much-ado-about-persuasion-celebration-tour-giveaway

Midnight’s Budding Morrow Book Review and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Midnight’s Budding Morrow ~ Review with Excerpt and Giveaway

Midnight’s Budding Morrow

Regency Wallflowers Book #2

By Carolyn Miller

Midnight’s Budding Morrow is Book 2 in author Carolyn Miller’s Regency Wallflowers Series. This Christian historical fiction may be read as a stand alone if you haven’t read the first book in the series. You will be able to follow and enjoy the story.

In this Regency tale, we meet Sarah Drayton. She is an orphan from a good family, however not from one of wealth or prestige. Beatrice Langley is Sarah’s friend and takes her to visit the Langley home in Northumberland. Also there is Bea’s brother, James. He needs a wife quickly and decides on Sarah.

I really enjoy the writing style of this author. Her characters are multilayered and relatable. The villains are detestable, while the heroes shine. Conversations sound authentic for the location and time period.

It did not take me long to become invested in the story. I really liked Sarah and her friend Bea. At times the character’s emotions caused tears to gather in my eyes. That is the sign of a good book.

Overall this was a highly enjoyable book, but I will admit I did need tissue for a scene or two. So I would recommend this for home reading and not your lunch break at work. 

I highly recommend this book. It gets a 4 star rating from this reader. A copy was provided by the publisher, but these are my honest words.

About the Book:

Can real love grow between a wallflower and an unrepentant rogue?


Sarah Drayton is eager to spend time with her best friend at her crumbling Northumberland castle estate. Matrimony is the last thing on her mind and the last thing she expects to be faced with on a holiday. Yet she finds herself being inveigled into a marriage of convenience with her friend’s rakish brother.

When James Langley returns to his family’s estate, he can’t be bothered to pay attention to his responsibilities as the heir. War is raging and he wants only distraction, not serious tethers. But his roguish ways have backed him into a corner, and he has little choice but to obey his father’s stunning decree: marry before returning to war, or else. Suddenly he finds himself wedded to a clever and capable woman he does not love.

Sarah craves love and a place to belong, neither of which James offered before returning to the battlefront. Now everyone around her thinks she married above her station, and they have no intention of rewarding her for such impertinence. It isn’t until her husband returns from war seemingly changed that she begins to hope they may find real happiness. But can she trust that this rake has truly reformed?

When tragedy strikes, this pair must learn to trust God and his plans. Will they be destroyed . . . or will they discover that even in the darkest depths of night, the morning still holds hope?

Click here to read an excerpt.

About the Series:

While most stories set in Regency England focus on the rich, the young, and the beautiful, award-winning author Carolyn Miller decided she wanted to give readers something different for a change. Her new Regency Wallflowers series follows the commoners, away from the hustle and bustle of 1810s London, out in the Lake District of England. She tells the stories of women who are slightly older and have few prospects for marriage, women who might be considered “wallflowers.”

Midnight’s Budding Morrow is the second book in the Regency Wallflowers series. The first book in the series is Dusk’s Darkest Shores.

About the Author:

Carolyn Miller is an inspirational romance author who lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children.
 
A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English literature and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. She enjoys music, films, gardens, art, travel, and food.

Miller’s novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers. 
 
Learn more about Carolyn at www.carolynmillerauthor.com, or find her on Facebook (Carolyn Miller Author), Instagram (@CarolynMillerAuthor), and Twitter (@CarolynMAuthor). 

Giveaway:

https://www.audrajennings.com/2022/05/win-copy-of-midnights-budding-morrow.html