Atoning for Ashes by Author Kaitlin Covel

Don’t you love finding a new author that has penned a book that is so captivating it grabs your attention within the first few pages?  Me, too!  Even better, how about if that novel pulls you so deeply inside that you just have to finish it in one sitting?  Now you know it is a fantastic book, a page turner.  That’s right.  That’s what we are discussing today.   Let the hubby fend for himself and the dishes pile up, I am reading author Kaitlin Covel’s “Atoning for Ashes” Christian historical romance and cannot be bothered.60889CEE-D8F5-41D3-9181-9A24CAF92CBF

Author Covel is a delightful find for me.  She is an exquisitely talented wordsmith that weaves a mesmerizing tale.  Her characters are well rounded, flaws and all, and relatable.  We became fast friends.  Emotions were transferred from her characters to me through the author’s extraordinary writing ability.  At times I was a nervous wreck and others giving advice to fictional characters or rejoicing with them.

Everything in her book was well researched, well organized, and extremely well written.  I loved how she surprised me sometimes with various twists and turns.  The author’s style of writing is nothing short of poetic.  Even the conversations flowed smoothly.  Covel writes English Regency romance as if she has experienced it first hand and passes the experience along to readers.  This is a book to get lost in, but then some dark things happen.  It is grabbed my attention early and held it all the way through until the end.

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Even though it is a God glorifying book, it tackles some adult issues.  Expect fornication, attempted rape, alcoholism, pregnancy outside of marriage, murder, abuse, and struggles of self worth among the more difficult subjects in Atoning for Ashes.  On the other side, look for redemption, forgiveness, grace, restoration, hope, love, trust, and family to shine brightly.

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There are too many favorite quotes to list.  I adore Christian books that do not shy away from discussing God and His mercy.  It is especially refreshing reading about grace and redemption.  If it is a Christian novel, please don’t make me hunt for the lesson and inspiration.  This one did not make me search.

Now for something that did not sit well with me.  First let me say that I am a grandmother so age may play into this, but I did not like the use of the word hell.  If you are talking about the place where Satan inhabits, then it is fine, but if you are frustrated, don’t use it in a Christian novel.  This seemed out of place in Christian fiction to me.  Just my opinion.  It might not bother you.

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I would highly recommend this jewel of a Christian romance fiction that has mystery, intrigue, inspiration, and action.  Because of the adult content I would say an older teen (18) or young adult should be the youngest age to read this.  A mature women’s group would certainly find a lot to discuss using this.  Even with the one thing that I did not like, it earned a 5 out of 5 stars from me.   I expect we will be hearing a lot about author Kaitlin Covel in the months to come.  Watch for her.  Mark your calendars for when this sure to be best seller comes out next month.  You will be glad to have read the debut from this budding new author.  I absolutely was.

i received an advanced reader copy but was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own, honest ones.

My Rating: 5-Stars-300x57

 

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About the Book:

Josie Chadwick dreams of marrying for love in Cornwall, England, but with her father’s debt threatening to destroy all she holds dear, her romantic options are dwindling. When her elder sister Delia is disowned, Josie finds herself heiress of Chadwick Park, torn between dreams and duty. After sacrificing her heart to atone for Delia’s sin, Josie clings to the hope she will learn to love a distant husband, whom she fears is incapable of requiting her affection.

Charles Radcliffe’s heart has been scarred and hardened by rejection. He fears hurting his new bride, but his fears of betrayal and rejection are stronger, making it impossible for him to trust her love―let alone the love of her God.

As Josie and Charles face their new life together, ominous events warn of dark family secrets that could shatter them both. More than a loveless marriage is at stake if they cannot stand as one. Will they learn to trust God and each other before it’s too late?

Preorder your copy today! Releasing on February 14th.

Purchase Link:https://www.amazon.com/Atoning-Ashes-Novel-Kaitlin-Covel/dp/1632694840/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kaitlin Covel has a thirst for adventure much like the heroines of her stories and resides in her beloved state of Maine. She is an old-fashioned romantic, and if she could time travel to any historical period, it would be the Regency Era. Kaitlin is a certified Nutritional Therapist Technician, but writing is her passion. Her debut novel, Atoning for Ashes, releases on February 14th, 2019 from Deep River Books.

Visit her official website at http://www.kaitlincovel.com.

Premeditated Serendipity Book Review & Giveaway Celebrate Lit Tour

It has been a long time since I have read a fiction book on Prophecy.  What about you?  In author Chautona Havig’s upcoming release Premeditated Serendipity, I found a delightful contemporary Christian romantic fiction that dealt with just that.  Prophecy.  I was thrilled.  Then I started reading the book and was mesmerized.  It grabbed my attention and drew me in quickly.

Author Havig has such a pleasant style of writing that reading one of her books is easy.  I was immediately caught up in the story and invested in the character’s’ lives.  They were well defined and relatable.  I found myself thinking Kelsey is so much like this friend or Uncle Mel is a real doll.   Conversations between everyone was smooth and natural.  It did not sound stiff.
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The author has used this book for an opportunity to discuss some topics we all face.  Forgiveness, being a busy-body, redemption, being hurt at church, faith, hope, trust, and love.  It had humor, sweet moments, and some other places that made me want to yell at the characters.  My emotions ran all over the place with the characters.
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This is a captivating novel.  Once started I did not want to put it down. I loved everything about it.  The writing, the storyline, the inspiration and encouragement, that it was a God glorifying, and the lovely characters.  Would I recommend this?  You betcha, I would!  Any woman would thoroughly enjoy this story.  It would make a great small group book, too.  You will want to discuss it with someone else.  Doesn’t that usually happen when you read a great book?  It does with me.  I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars.
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I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to review it.  These are my own, honest opinions and thoughts.
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About the Book

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Title: Premeditated Serendipity

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Christian romance

Release date: November 16, 2017

…make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you. ~ I Thessalonians 4:11

That’s all Reid wanted to do–just serve the Lord for a year before concerning himself with anything else. Yeah, the idea came from an odd “prophesy” one of the watchmen of Fairbury’s new Prayer Room spoke over him. Sure, he didn’t know if such “prophecies” were even Biblical–arguments on that score abounded. But since the words she spoke were pure Scripture, and since yielding to them couldn’t be wrong, he thought, “Why not?”

Was it always easy? No. People made judgments about him that weren’t accurate. Shy? Nope. Stuck up? Not hardly. Committed to a celibate life?

Good news, girls–just for the year.

But when the local florist hears Reid’s story and sees a few things that give him a glimpse into the man’s heart, he decides on a little premeditated serendipity to move things along, unaware of the serious havoc he’s about to wreak.

Premeditated Serendipity

Take a few Bible verses, stir in a little godly interference, give a pinch of meddling, and mix well. Bake in the oven of misunderstanding until true feelings rise and come out clean.

Part of the Out of the Blue Bouquet Collection

Click here to purchase your copy of the Out of the Blue Bouquet Collection

About the Author

39a3760d-495c-41cf-ba18-6812180f068c  Author of the Amazon bestselling Aggie and Past Forward series, Chautona Havig lives and writes in an oxymoron where she uses story to connect readers with the Master Storyteller.

Guest Post from Chautona

What Important Life Lesson Do Simple Daisies Teach Us?

It all began with a barrel of daisies. There I was, writing a simple scene with a character walking up the street of my fictional town of Fairbury, and this man appeared in front of a florist’s shop—The Pettler. He handed my character a daisy, and I soon learned that he did this for everyone—handed out a free daisy to anyone who passed.

6Since then, in almost any book that takes place in Fairbury, someone receives one of those daisies. So, when Amanda Tru told me about a collection featuring novellas about floral fiascoes, I knew it was time for Wayne Farrell of The Pettler to make a solid showing in a book.

I just wasn’t ready for it to be his story.

However, as I wrote about Reid and Kelsey, Wayne kept creeping in more and more. A backstory emerged. His faith bloomed. Yes, his heart has a few weeds that need to be pulled, but those weeds provided the conflict for this story.

And one thing that happened is he planted a seed in my own heart. I sat there thinking about what those daisies meant to him when the old “He loves me, he loves me not” ditty came to mind. I imagined that a florist would likely love or hate that. I mean, you don’t want people to have negative connotations with flowers, but on the other hand, people buying daisies to pluck… that’s good business.

Thinking of it in terms of Jesus changed everything, though. Suddenly, I had his story. Because, like Wayne shares with Reid in Premeditated Serendipity. When you pluck a daisy thinking of the Lord, there is no not. It’s just, “He loves me. He loves me. He loves me.” You can cross out every not. (I even have a short video on this.)

Because, as John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes on Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

He loves us. Period.

Note: for Wayne’s full story, check out Tangoed in Tinsel, part of the Under the Christmas Star set—the CrossRoads Collection 3.

Blog Stops

Real World Bible Study, January 5

Cultivating Us, January 6

Back Porch Reads, January 7

Aryn, the Libraryan, January 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 9

Texas Book-aholic, January 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior PrincessJanuary 11

Bibliophile Reviews, January 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 13

Mary Hake, January 13

Janices book reviewsJanuary 14

Carpe Diem, January 15

A Baker’s Perspective, January 16

BigreadersiteJanuary 17

Multifarious, January 18

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away a grand prize of a bouquet sent to anyone the winner wants in the U.S.!!

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/d8a5/premeditated-serendipity-celebration-tour-giveaway

Between Two Shores by author Jocelyn Green

In her book Between Two Shores, author Jocelyn Green has written a hauntingly beautiful novel.  This 400 page historical romantic fiction is in 1759 but goes back a few years to when the main character, Catherine Stands-Alone, is just ten years old.  Using the backdrop of the French and Indian Seven Years War, author Green spins a captivating tale of faith, hope, finding one’s place, loyalty, bravery, courage, and love.

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Catherine is part Mohawk and part Canadian- French.  Her character is well defined and relatable. At times I hurt with her as her emotions seeped from the pages into me.  Other times I would get frustrated with her obstinance.  Yes, I wanted to give her some advice.   She just wanted to love and be loved.  Don’t we all?
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The other characters were equally well created.  They were well rounded with lovable and dislikable traits.  The scenery was vividly described which took me right there.  I could hear the animals and see the water.  The trading post was easy to imagine.
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Author Green has a way with words.  I was immediately interested in the story, and this is before Chapter 1.  By the time I finished the Prologue and Chapter 1, I has deeply invested in the lives of the characters.  The story was well researched and provided historic information on a subject which was not familiar.  I love a novel that teaches me something.  It also contains some twists and turns along the way.
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At the end of the book are discussion questions.  I love, love, love it when an author includes those whether for personal growth or group study.  There are also author notes explaining which events and people are factual.  Again, I love this.
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Would I recommend this book?  You betcha!  Any history lover will devour this jewel in one sitting.  It is an interesting, adventurous, historical, romance that has inspiration and encouragement.  This would make a great small group book especially with the discussion guide.  The book stayed with me long after I finished the last page.  It would have been nice to have a group of friends to chat with about this brilliant book.   It receives a 5 out of 5 stars from me.  I received a copy of this book from the author and NetGalley. All opinions are my own, honest ones.

About the Author:

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Jocelyn Green is a former journalist who puts her investigative skills to work in writing both nonfiction and historical fiction to inspire faith and courage.

The honors her books have received include the Christy Award in historical fiction, and gold medals from the Military Writers Society of America and the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.

Complex and nuanced characters, rich historical detail and twisting plots make her novels immersive experiences. Her fiction has been praised by Historical Novel Society, Romantic Times, Library Journal, historians specializing in her novels’ time periods, as well as popular and acclaimed authors Laura Frantz, Lori Benton, Jody Hedlund, Sarah Sundin, Joanne Bischof, Julie Lessman, and more.

Jocelyn loves Broadway musicals, the color red, strawberry-rhubarb pie, Mexican food, and well-done documentaries. She lives in Iowa with her husband, two children, and two cats she should have named Catticus Finch and Purrman Meowville.

Thrive in Retirement by Eric Thurman

Thrive in Retirement, Simple Secrets for Being Happy for the Rest of Your Life, by author Eric Thurman took me a while to read.  I am more accustomed to Christian fiction with stories that take me away to another time and place.   This 240 page non-fiction book kept me right here but was packed full of great information for everyone.  I am very glad I continued reading it.

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The author has put together information to help anyone going into retirement.  A lot of the information is common knowledge, but a lot of it was also new to me.  The author’s writing style was a bit of a mixture.  He included charts, quizzes, and lists along with his thoughts and some personal experiences.  Some chapters felt like a textbook while others were less strict and felt like he was talking one on one.

I gleaned a lot from this book.  It was interesting to read the author’s insights and ideas on retirement and what one should do.  Not only is retirement discussed but what the author calls “the third season of life” which include retirement, aging, and death.  He has tips and suggestions as well as forms to help readers and their loved ones transition into this.  Everything he has written is to help readers be prepared.  It is easy to forget something important so author Thurman has placed all of the information needed in his book.  Now readers have a retirement guide at their fingertips!

I would recommend this book to anyone.  People that have retired or are preparing to retire, young adults with family retiring, people needing a retirement gift, and so many more would all benefit from this book.  It comes out February 26, 2019.  Get a copy and read it with a group so you can share your thoughts.   I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from WaterbrookMultnomah but was not required to write a review.  These are my own, honest thoughts.

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About the book:

Never before in human history have so many people lived for decades beyond their working years. 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day, and their average life expectancy is another 20 years–and many will live longer. But will they just live or have a meaningful life? The truth is that many–if not most–people approaching the latter years do not have a plan, much less a strategy to thrive instead of just survive. Packed with information based on research as well as common-sense wisdom, here are some examples of what readers will discover:
* How retiring at the wrong time increases the likelihood of dying 89%.
* What can delay Alzheimer’s onset an average of 9 years.
* How everything that makes you happy comes in just 3 forms.
* Which partner is most likely to initiate divorce after decades of marriage and why.

About the Author:

After a career that took him to half of the countries in the world, Eric Thurman found retirement to be a much bigger adjustment than he expected. His freer schedule was great but trying to pretend life was little more than an endless vacation quickly grew stale. He set out to understand how to make the most of life if he had another 20 or 30 years still ahead. He drew on his early background as a journalist to uncover the latest research on aging and then he applied his leadership skills as a CEO to organize his discoveries into a practical plan. What he found that energized his personal life became the principles he outlines in his latest books and courses.

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Eric Thurman has a history of blazing trails. As International President of a large nonprofit organization, he created a program that now serves orphans and other hurting children in more than 30 countries. Previously, he was CEO of two leading microfinance organizations that enable families in dozens of developing countries to expand tiny businesses and work their way out of poverty. In addition to his writing and speaking on happiness in retirement, he continues to advise international nonprofits and major donors on how to be most effective in helping people thrive.

 

Celebrate Giveaway & Review of “This Homeward Journey” by Misty M. Beller

About the Book

Title: This Homeward Journey  
Author: Misty M. Beller  
Genre: Christian historical romance  
Release date: January 1, 2019

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After her husband’s death, Rachel Gray is finally free from the turmoil his addictions caused. She wants nothing more than a new life with her twelve-year-old son. If she can reach her brother in the wilderness of the Canadian territories, they’ll have help to start over in peace. She knows better than to put her life in the hands of another man, but she never expected the Montana mountains to be so treacherous. When two brothers invite her to join their small group traveling to the same area, she refuses. After she and her son narrowly escape a bear attack, she’s forced to admit they need the safety of numbers in this untamed land. If the men prove dangerous, she can always leave with her son and strike out alone again. 

Seth Grant has made some bad choices in his life, but God healed him from the addiction that mired him in his sins. Now, he’s determined to live the life God called him to, starting with a journey northward to see the Canadian mountain both his brother and sister have fallen in love with. When he discovers the woman and boy who plan to travel the same mountain trail, he can’t fathom why she refuses to join in the safety of their larger group. Though her decision seems unwise, he has no other choice but to pray God provides her protection. 

Despite Rachel’s best efforts, she can’t seem to fight her attraction to the Seth—until a secret from his past proves he’s not at all the man she thought. When a new peril threatens her son’s life, she must choose between trusting in what she can control, or the man who her heart says is trustworthy, no matter his previous sins. The path she chooses just may determine whether she can step into the new life God has in store for them all.

Click here to purchase your copy.

My Review

This Homeward Journey by author Misty M. Beller is the fifth book in her Heart of the Mountains series, and it is a such a good novel.  No need to worry because it is Book 5 if you’ve missed the first four.  The author has written it in a way that you can easily understand and catch up. It is a beautiful and captivating story of unexpected love and the importance of learning to trust one’s heart again. 
The author has a pleasant writing style which makes her books a pleasure to read.  Her vivid descriptions, characters, and abundant conversation drew me in quickly.  She writes gracefully and allows her story to smoothly unfold.  Unlike the other four which are set in the harsh winter, this one is in the summer.  It is the tale of Rachel, a widow, and her young son traveling through the Montana territory to the Canadian mountains during the mid-1860s in search of her brother.
It is also the story of Seth.  A swoon worthy guide that can handle whatever the mountain tosses his way.  He has a heart for nature, outdoors, caring for others, and God.  This is an all around good guy.  
All of the characters were well written and developed to the point that they became my friends.  I was invested in their story and felt their emotions.  My heart broken when theirs did.  I smiled when something good happened.  I felt like I was on the mountain, too.  Only a good wordsmith can take me along with them.
The author has liberally laced the story with inspiration without sounding preachy.  There is no doubt it is a Christian fiction.  Thank you, Ms. Beller!  She has included what I can only imagine to be realistic trauma and action on this mountain adventure as Rachel encounters beasts of all kinds including ferocious bears, rattlesnakes, and dastardly kidnappers. 
Yes, I definitely recommend this book.  It is a story of hope, trust, love, and second chances.  It is a story of what God has planned for you even if you can’t see it.  If you enjoy historical Christian action fiction, you will love it.  It rates a 4.5 out of 5 from me.  I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit. A review was not required and opinions are my own honest ones.

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About the Author

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

Guest Post from Misty

Why Christian Historical Romance? 

I don’t know about you, but my life can get crazy…busy…chaotic. Historical fiction gives me a haven, allowing me to immerse in a simpler time and place. Add in remote mountain settings—log cabins and horses and snow…what could be better? Sometimes I wish God had let me live a couple centuries ago, but then I remind myself He knew exactly what He was doing. I don’t do well without a shower every day. 😊 And He even lets me go back to that simpler time through stories! 

If you’re reading this, you probably enjoy immersing yourself in a good book, too. Story can be such a powerful thing! Becoming an intimate part of the characters’ lives, feeling their struggles—the desperation, the elation, the emotions, the love. 

I enjoy reading and writing Christian fiction because it provides a place where I don’t always have to be concerned about inappropriate language or too-graphic love scenes. It’s a “safe zone” where my imagination can escape, living out exciting times and experiencing God-orchestrated happily-ever-afters—without having to clean-up at the end of the day. Can you relate? 

I’m excited to share my latest Christian Historical Romance story with you, and hope you enjoy it as much as I loved writing it!

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away a 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 image above or the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/d9bc/this-homeward-journey-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, December 29

Through the Fire Blogs, December 29

Carpe Diem, December 30

Splashes of Joy, December 30

A Baker’s Perspective, December 31

Mary Hake, December 31

Pause for Tales, January 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 1

Simple Harvest Reads, January 2 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Connie’s History Classroom, January 2

Among the Reads, January 3

For The Love of Books, January 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 4

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 4

Connect in Fiction, January 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 5

Christian Author, J.E. Grace. January 6

Bibliophile Reviews, January 6

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 7

Inspiration Clothesline, January 7

Creating Romance, January 8

Texas Book-aholic, January 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 9

Janices book reviews, January 9

Wishful Endings, January 10

Cafinated Reads, January 10

Bigreadersite, January 11

Blossoms and Blessings, January 11

The Liberty Bride by Marylu Tyndall

The Liberty Bride by author Marylu Tyndall is Book 6 in the Brides of the Mayflower series.  If you have been following the series you know that different authors write each book.  This one is set during the War of 1812.  It is an action filled historical Christian romance from a talented writer.

Author Tyndall has a way of grabbing readers’ attention immediately and keeping it until the final page.  This book was no exception.  I became invested in the lives of Emeline Baratt and Owen Masters quickly.  Tyndall has done her research in writing this well planning, organized, and penned novel.  The descriptions took me to the 1800’s during time of war and turmoil.

Characters are relatable and endearing.  They were well rounded and easy to imagine.  They jumped from the pages and into my imagination.  Through danger, intrigue, sadness, hardship, fear, and many other adventures, I shared the emotions they felt.  I laughed out loud a few times and teared up, too.

My favorite things with historical Christian books are for them to teach me something and not hide the fact they are Christian books.  Give me inspiration and scripture.  I am happy to report The Liberty Bride passed both with flying colors.  I learned about life at sea and much about the War of 1812.

Some situations and circumstances are relatable as far as the faith aspect.  The characters have issues with obedience, trust, and faith.  Who hasn’t at one time or another.  I enjoyed watching their faith journey grow.

This is a great book.  It was a page turner for me.  After the story readers will find an index which includes the historical section as well as a biography.  Be sure not to skip that.  Don’t worry that this is Book 6 if you haven’t read the others.  It can be read as a stand-alone.

I definitely recommend this book.  Fans of the author will be thrilled with it.  Readers who enjoy Christian historical, adventure that includes romance set during a war will love this latest installment to the Series, too.  Reading groups that enjoy historical fiction will devour it.  It gets a 5 out of 5 Stars from me.  I was provided a copy from the publisher but was not required to write a review.  These are my own, honest opinions.

 

Woman of Courage and Woman of Hope by Wanda Brunstetter

I love historical fiction.  A good historical fiction takes me on an adventure to a time and place that I have never been.  It also teaches me something about them.

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In her historical Christian fiction, Woman of Courage, author Wanda E. Brunstetter takes me on a journey from New York to the Oregon Territory.  It is the story of Amanda Pearson as she joins a Quaker mission to spread the word of God to the Indians out West.

The author has given us delightful, strong characters.  It is easy to become invested in their lives and this story.  Amanda’s journey has so many trials but she preserves.  This shows a strong faith and trust in God.

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In the second story, Little Fawn is a very likable character.  She has developed a strong faith and wants to share it with other Indians.  Her story is intriguing and captivated me quickly.

Conversation is easy and plentiful in this book.  I felt like I was right there listening.  Descriptions were spot on and my imagination painted a vivid picture of Amanda and her friend a Yellow Bird as well as the scenery.  The same with the second story. Emotions were transferred from the characters to me.  I felt their sadness, fear, and joy.

The author has written well researched stories.  There is a plethora of information on the various Indian tribes and beliefs.  Material was well organized, planned, and written.  Author Brunstetter is a gifted wordsmith whether she is writing historical or Amish novels.  Readers will always find Christian encouragement and inspiration woven throughout her stories.

I definitely recommend this book.  Fans of historical fiction and Wanda’s Amish fans will love it.  If you are interested in learning about Indians, you will also enjoy this book.  This would be a great reading club book and Christmas gift.  I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own, honest ones.

About:  A Woman of Courage Makes an Epic Journey

Take a three-thousand mile journey with Amanda Pearson as she leaves the disgrace of a broken engagement and joins the work at a Quaker mission in the western wilds. The trip is fraught with danger, and Amanda is near death before reaching her destination. Among those she meets are an Indian woman who becomes her first convert and a half-Indian trapper who seems to be her biggest critic. But love follows her into the wilderness and will determine the course of her future. You are sure to enjoy this historical romance adventure from New York Timesbestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter.

Woman of Hope, with Little Fawn’s story:

Raised as an orphan by a loving white couple, Little Fawn always felt something was missing from her life. She longs to take the news of Jesus to the Nez Perce Indians, but despite being a missionary herself, Little Fawn’s mother forbids it. Will White Wolf, her intended, support Little Fawn’s decision when she abruptly follows the tribe’s migration onto the Plains?

About the author:

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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.

 

“I Know the Plans” Book Tour & Giveaway Celebrate Lit

I Know the Plans by author Melissa Wardwell is an emotionally charged contemporary Christian novel in her Promises from Above Series.  It is the story of married couple Tiffany and Brad.

Author Wardwell has a nice easy style of writing.  Her book was well written, researched, organized and planned.  She has a way of transferring emotions and feelings from her pages straight into readers.

I found the characters to be believable.  They were realistic and well developed.  Some were more like friends than others to me.  Their conversation was easy and flowed smoothly.

Situations were nail-biting and heart-breaking.  This was not a relaxed read for me.  There were a lot of emotional moments.  However, it was rather slow at the beginning before really grabbing my attention.  There are life lessons to learn and inspiration in this book.

It gets a recommendation and 4 out of 5 star rating.  A copy was provided from Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own honest opinions.

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About the Book

Book: I Know the PlansI-Know-the-Plans-188x300

Author: Melissa Wardwell

Genre: Romance

Release Date: October, 2018

All the plans Tiffany and Brad made for their lives as individuals were thrown to the wind the moment they met. Now, after almost a decade of marriage, they spend more time apart than together. Though plans remain unfulfilled, their hearts seek to remain steadfast and connected.

After Brad returns from his latest tour in Afghanistan, it is evident that the man Tiffany married is no longer the same. As Brad struggles with reacquainting himself with his life, Tiffany questions how it could be part of God’s plan. Have the sins of their past finally come back to haunt them? No matter how much support they have in their family and friends, the choice is still theirs. Will they continue to trust God with their lives or will they choose their own course?

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Melissa Wardwell resides in the quaint town of Owosso, Michigan with her husband and Melissa-Wardwell-200x300their three teen aged children. She began her writing journey in August of 2014 with her debut novel “What God Brings Together”. She decided to give writing a try after she shared a story that nagged at her with a friend. Unsure in her own abilities to craft a story she plunged ahead anyway. After reading the first draft of that first book, she then understood that God had a much bigger plan. “God does not give his children a desire just so that it can go to waste.” Since then, she has added three more novels and taken part in two anthologies. Melissa also has a review blog and is a contributing blogger for Heart”wings” Blog.

Being a mother and wife herself, Melissa understands the importance of taking care of yourself from time to time. So, all her stories revolve around women who are mothers: single mothers, widowed mothers, young mothers, married mothers, and even women who have a mother’s heart but no children of their own.

To see the full list of her work, visit www.melissawardwell.com

 

Guest Post from Melissa

Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

This verse has been my “Go To” verse since the day I married. It is a constant reminder that no matter what struggles I endure, God has a plan. I may not be able to see through the fog, I may not like or understand the journey, but it is all part of a plan. All I can do is trust God’s design for my life and be willing to move when He tells me to.

God used the writing process of “I Know the Plans” to remind me that He has a plan for me and book and I need to just trust the process. This book has taken me over a year to complete. If it wasn’t one thing to keep me from committing to it, then it was another. I don’t begrudge the events that kept me away, but as soon as I would begin to grumble to God about not having the energy or the brain power to write, I would get this preverbal reminder that I was not the one in control. If I am going to write faith lessons in fiction, I need to trust the Master Author.

In “I Know the Plans”, Sergeant Bradley Jones and his wife, Tiffany, are hit with one whopper of a plot twist that leaves them wondering if they can get through some major medical issues, PTSD, and infertility in one piece. Their family and friends do their best to support the couple but sometimes, trusting God’s plan is all they can do. Something we all try to learn to do in our own lives.

Due to the military thread in this book, I asked my veteran friends what charity they hold in high esteem. Almost every single one of them suggested “Wounded Warrior Project” and offered rave reviews of their humanitarian efforts in the military community. So, a portion of my royalties from this book will be going to “Wounded Warrior Project” in honor of their service and the service of thousands of others.

https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org

There is another group of people I wanted to honor. Those who fight with infertility. I know many who have fought the battle to have children of their own. Some eventually find success, while other have not. Some have even taken the route of adoption and have saved the lives of young ones who needed all the love in the world. Then there are some that just choose to embrace the fact that children of their own was not going to happen and have given all their love to others. All of these groups of people fight a battle that is riddled with pain, confusion, endless medical procedures, and thousands of dollars. There isn’t one group or anther that could support these people as much as our love, prayers, and thoughtful kindness can. So, I encourage you to embrace those around you and shower them with love. Sometimes what they need is just a friend that will listen and not try to mix the problem. Just as you have received the Father’s love, now you can give it away.

Finally, I want to thank the CelebrateLit blog team for signing up for this tour. I am honored that they choose to read this story and offer their honest opinions on this book. As always, I pray it ministers to the readers as much as it ministered to the author. “You all are amazing!”

Blessings,

Melissa Wardwell

Blog Stops

Christian Author, J.E.Grace, December 13

Real World Bible Study, December 13

Connect in Fiction, December 14

Inklings and notionsDecember 14

Godly Book Reviews, December 15

Blogging With Carol, December 15

Blossoms and Blessings, December 16

Mary Hake, December 16

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 17

Carpe Diem, December 17

Maureen’s Musings, December 18

All-of-a-kind Mom, December 18

Texas Book-aholic, December 19

Christian Bookaholic, December 20

cultivating us, December 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 21

Bibliophile Reviews, December 22

A Baker’s Perspective, December 23

Simple Harvest Reads, December 24 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Janices book reviews, December 25

The Becca Files, December 26

Bigreadersite, December 26

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Melissa is giving away a grand prize that includes an “I know the plans” coffee mug and print copies of books 1, 2, & 3 from the Promises From Above 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/d76f/i-know-the-plans-celebration-tour-giveaway

Please comment here on this post.

 

Who I Am with You by Robin Lee Hatcher

     Yes, I am a bookworm.  I love to read.  Books take me to times and places I have never been if the author is skilled.  They introduce me to a wide variety of new friends within their many pages.  Today, let me share one that I just read with you.  It was exceptionally moving.  I loved it and know you will, too.
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     Who I Am with You by Robin Lee Hatcher is spectacular.  I picked it up to read a few chapters and found myself staying up all night long until I finished it.  Yes, it is that good!  The characters are endearing, well rounded, and believable.  I easily became invested in their stories.  My imagination kicked in and I felt like I was there in Idaho with them.  I laughed at their humor, got teary at times, had emotional highs and lows right along with them, and wanted to play with the dog in the story.
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    This is a contemporary Christian romance that has a bit of mystery throughout and a parallel story from the 1930’s.  Opening the story the author teases us with just enough information to become interested, very interest, and want to know a lot more details on her characters.  For me this quickly became a “don’t put me down until the last page book.”
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     It has humor, life lessons, a sweet romance, history, and a well planned story.  The writing is exquisite.  It flows without a hitch.  The author is a talented wordsmith.  Conversation between characters sounds natural and not forced.  Details are just right without being too much or boring.
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     When reading a Christian novel, it is important to have an inspirational message in it.  I dislike the weak, watered down ones.  This one did not disappoint at all.  I love books that teach me things, especially historical things I did not realize.  Again, I gleaned some things from this, too.  Another thing I love is discussion or questions for thought at the end of a book.  Again, this book has that.    It will make a great book club read.  There is a lot to chatter about after finishing this jewel.
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     I highly recommend this book.  Highly!  An advanced reader copy was provided by the author but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, honest thoughts.  The rating for this is an easy 5 out of 5 stars.

Giveaway and Book Tour The Unannounced Christmas Visitor

My Review:

I really enjoyed this short novel.  It might not have had hundreds of pages but it was packed with powerful messages that stayed with me.  This contemporary Christian fiction is an eye-opening book that I would recommend to everyone.

The author has done an exemplary job of capturing society’s views on multiple issues.  It offers food for thought and insight into many issues.  Homelessness is explored as well as motives for going to church.  Giving graciously and joyfully is addressed.  Serving others is discussed.  His story is God glorifying.  Shouldn’t every book that is classified as “Christian” bring glory to God?

The characters are relatable and believable.  Grace and Matthew, the children, are adorable.  Enoch, the angel, was riveting and I wanted to keep “listening” to him speak.  The author did such a good job with this book.  I could not put it down.

Scripture is not sprinkled throughout this book, but rather it is heavily dropped in all the way.  It took me from page one to become invested.  This is a story that should move and change everyone who reads it.  I hope to see it on the Hallmark Channel at Christmas on day.

It get a huge recommendation from me.  Everyone should read it.  I rated it 5+ out of 5 stars but wanted to go higher.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but all opinions and the review are my own honest opinion.
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About the Book

Book: The Unannounced Christmas Visitor
Author: Patrick Higgins
Genre: Christian fiction/Christmas
Release Date: November 18, 2014
What if angels really did come from the most unlikely of places? That’s exactly what happens in this heartwarming story, set in a homeless community in Anywhere USA. Sent to Planet Earth by his Maker, disguised as a homeless person, Enoch was on a mission: to rescue a man whose life was slowly but steadily spiraling out of control
Inspired by Hebrews 13:2, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it,” this story will stir your soul like never before, guaranteed! 2016 IPA (INTERNATIONAL PUBLISHER AWARDS) GOLD MEDAL AWARD WINNER.
Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Patrick higginsPatrick Higgins is the author of “The Pelican Trees”, “Coffee In Manila”, the award-winning “The Unannounced Christmas Visitor”, and the award-winning prophetic end times series, “Chaos In The Blink Of An Eye.”

Guest Post from Patrick

Why I wrote the book: Inspired by Hebrews 13:2, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it,” this story will stir your soul like never before, guaranteed!

Blog Stops

Lighthouse Academy, November 10
The Power of Words, November 11
Genesis 5020, November 12
Bogging With Carol, November 12
Moments, November 14
Mary Hake, November 15
Inklings and notions, November 16
Bibliophile Reviews, November 17
Vicky Sluiter, November 18
Godly Book Reviews, November 19
Texas Book-aholic, November 21
Carpe Diem, November 22
Bigreadersite, November 22
amandainpa, November 23

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Patrick 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/d5c7/the-unannounced-christmas-visitor-tour-giveaway