Flights of Fancy Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on January 18, 2019January 18, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to the Celebrate Lit Flights of Fancy Book Tour and Giveaway. I am glad you joined us. You are in for a treat as today I have not just a book review, but also a Q and A section with author Jen Turano, and a giveaway. Be sure to read all the way to the end for instructions. Let’s begin with my review of this stellar book. It is Book One in the author’s new American Heiress Series.

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To begin with I love the inspiration for this story. A real life what if! So many times I have wondered about how some situations might have turned out differently. Author took one with her creativity turned it into a wonderful Christian novel. This historical romance is filled with everything readers enjoy. I found romance, humor, animals, inspiration, action, adventure, and children along with a nice Christian message.

Author Turano has an enchanting style of writing. She is a witty and extremely talented storyteller. Her characters are well described and easily relatable. The main and even secondary ones were well rounded. Some were charming and lovable and others downright villains. Reading this book transported me back to 1885 and dropped me onto a farm. Within the first chapter I became invested in the book and did not want to stop reading. I was hooked. Poor Isadora being pursued by a repulsive older man. Yes, I could feel her disgust and outrage! Her emotions transferred to me.

The conversations between characters were plentiful and always a favorite part of any book for me. Dialogue flowed smoothly without sounding forced. The descriptions were historically accurate and I even learned a thing or two. The farm setting was adorable. This book had me smiling from ear to ear.

This 385 page paperback was extremely well written, well researched, and well planned. Parts of the storyline took me by surprise. I love twists and turns in fiction. It keeps me from being bored. Flights of Fancy also had many moments that made me giggle. The humor in this is literally laugh out loud great. Yes, I was well entertained and also inspired. The lessons of God’s Grace and plans for us, the importance of praying, and of becoming a better person were woven perfectly throughout the story.

Definitely this gets a recommendation from me. Anyone would enjoy reading this sweet book. Historical fans, romance fans, inspirational fiction fans all would be captivated. I certainly was. This would be another good Book Club read. There is so much to discuss over coffee or tea with friends. It earned 5 out of 5 stars from me.

A reader copy was provided but I was under no obligation to write a review. All thoughts are my own, honest ones.

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My Rating:

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Title: Flights of Fancy

Author: Jen Turano

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Gilded Age

Release date: January 1, 2019

Publisher: Bethany House

Miss Isadora Delafield may be an heiress, but her life is far from carefree. When her mother begins pressuring her to marry an elderly and uncouth duke, she escapes from the high society world she’s always known and finds herself to be an unlikely candidate for a housekeeper position in rural Pennsylvania.

Mr. Ian MacKenzie is known for his savvy business sense and has built his reputation and fortune completely on his own merits. But when his adopted parents are in need of a new housekeeper and Isadora is thrown into his path, he’s unexpectedly charmed by her unconventional manner.

Neither Isadora nor Ian expected to find the other so intriguing, but when mysterious incidents on the farm and the truth of Isadora’s secret threaten those they love, they’ll have to set aside everything they thought they wanted for a chance at happy-ever-after.

About the author:

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One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO.

Q & A With Jen Turano

“Flights of Fancy” is the first book in the American Heiress Series. What inspired you to write this series?

The inspiration for this entire series started off with a What If? All of my proposals for new series start off that way, and this time it was – What if Consuelo Vanderbilt had balked when her mother insisted she marry the Duke of Marlborough – and then that led to – What if she’d run away until her mother came to her senses? Just like that, an entire series was born – a bit of a different take on American heiresses because in all three books, my heiresses might decide to go a tad…rogue. We start off with Miss Isadora Delafield – who does run off to avoid marriage to a duke, then we get to meet Miss Poppy Garrison, who is an unexpected heiress but who can’t quite seem to get a handle on the expected social decorum of the day, and then the final book revolves around Miss Beatrix Waterbury – who gets banished to Chicago after she annoys her mother one too many times, and once there, well, gets up to a bit of mischief.

How do you come up with the names of your characters?

I find most of my names as I research the New York Four-Hundred, although I normally take a first name here, a last name there so I’m not stepping on any toes by writing about an actual historical figure – except for some of the main figures in New York society back then, such as Mr. Ward McAllister – who was the social arbiter of the day, or Mrs. William Astor, who was the queen of that society. What I don’t do is simply make up names, no matter how outrageous they may appear. And, no matter how I may love a certain name, if the character decides it doesn’t suit them, that’s it, it’s out and I’m back to the drawing board.

How do you picture your character? Do you use Pinterest, magazines, movies?

Odd as this may seem, I don’t use pictures for my characters. They start off in my mind as a blurry figure, and then, they develop from there – I like to keep my descriptions of them somewhat vague on the pages so that the reader can imagine them exactly the way they’d like them to be.

What are some of your favorite resources for historical research?

I’ve been building up a research library over the past few years and now have over 200 books dedicated to the Gilded Age. My favorites are – “A Season of Splendor” by Greg King, “Society as I Have Found It” by Ward McAllister, “The Gilded Age in New York – 1870-1910” by Esther Crain, and “ ‘King Lehr’ and the Gilded Age” by Elizabeth Drexel Lehr.

The setting for “Flights of Fancy” is a bit of a departure for you since it’s set in and outside of Pittsburgh. Any reason for that?

My mom was born in Pittsburgh, and unfortunately, her father, a prominent attorney back in the day, died when she was only four. I thought it would be cool to set a story in Pittsburgh, which would then allow me to really dive into some research. And get this – while I was doing that research, I found this obscure journal called “Memoirs of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. In that journal was a bit about my great-grandfather, Fred, his wife, Susie, my grandfather, and his brother and sister, but I’d never heard about this brother, who apparently died quite young. One of the most fabulous research tidbits I’ve uncovered to date.

What are you working on now?

I’ve just recently turned in the content edits for the second book in this series, “Diamond in the Rough,” and I’ve also turned in a novella about the Harvey Girls that will be coming out in a novella collection in Fall, 2019. With those out of the way, I’m now starting the third and final book in the American Heiress series, Miss Beatrix Waterbury’s story, but I’m having a bit of a struggle with the hero at the moment – he was supposed to be Edward, but he doesn’t want to be an Edward – I think he wants to be Norman – but, time will tell on that one – don’t hold me to the name – it’ll depend on if he changes his mind or not – pesky characters.

You seem to enjoy adding animals in many of your stories. Will we find any animals in “Flights of Fancy?”

Since Miss Isadora Delafield ends up on a farm, I do believe you will find a few animals, such as an adorable cow by the name of Buttercup, a few goats that seem to have a great liking for laundry, and…there might be some chickens.

Thanks for stopping by today, everyone! Always enjoy visiting with all of you – in fact, that’s the best part of my job!

All the best,

~ Jen ~

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, January 10

Among the Reads, January 10

Through the Fire, January 10

To Everything A Season, January 10

Reflections From My Bookshelves, January 11

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 11

Blogging With Carol, January 11

Southern Gal loves to Read, January 11

Back Porch Reads, January 12

KarenSueHadley, January 12

Godly Book Reviews, January 12

Daysong Refections, January 12

Livin Lit, January 13

The Christian Fiction Girl, January 13

The Becca Files, January 13

Texas Book-aholic, January 13

Rebekah’s Quill, January 14

Blossoms and Blessings, January 14

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14

All-of-a-kind Mom, January 15

Just the Write Escape, January 15

Stories By Gina, January 15

God’s Little Bookworm, January 16

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, January 16

Splashes of Joy, January 16

Janices book reviews, January 16

Happily Managing A Household of Boys, January 17

Mary Hake, January 17

Maureen’s Musings, January 17

Bibliophile Reviews, January 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 18

Baker Kella, January 18

Simple Harvest Reads, January 18 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 19

Captive Dreams Window, January 19

Robin is Bookish, January 19

Carpe Diem, January 19

Have A Wonderful Day, January 20

Life with the Tribe, January 20

Inklings and Notions, January 20

Rachel’s Back Talk, January 21

Inspiration Clothesline, January 21

amandainpa, January 21

A Baker’s Perspective, January 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 22

Pause for Tales, January 22

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

Raining Butterfly Kisses, January 23

Live Love Read, January 23

A Rup Life, January 23

Bigreadersite, January 23

Giveaway!!

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To celebrate her tour, Jen is giving away a grand prize of a trunk filled with all of Jen’s full-length novels released to date!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

Giveaway

Atoning for Ashes by Author Kaitlin Covel

Posted on January 15, 2019January 15, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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.

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:

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

Posted on January 11, 2019January 9, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Princess, January 11

Bibliophile Reviews, January 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 13

Mary Hake, January 13

Janices book reviews, January 14

Carpe Diem, January 15

A Baker’s Perspective, January 16

Bigreadersite, January 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

Posted on January 10, 2019January 9, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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?

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.

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.

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.

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:

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

Posted on January 5, 2019January 4, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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

Posted on January 4, 2019December 31, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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.

About the Author

Misty M. Beller writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and 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

Posted on December 20, 2018December 19, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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

Posted on December 19, 2018December 17, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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

Posted on December 17, 2018December 16, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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 Plans I-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-200x300 their 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 notions, December 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

Posted on November 26, 2018November 25, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.