Shine the Light Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway.

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to my stop on the book tour and giveaway for April McGowan’s book “Shine the Light.”  Please read about the book, my thoughts, the author, her thoughts, where you can find the other stops, and the generous giveaway.  Don’t forget to sign up to win!

My Thoughts:

This contemporary 300 page novel is not a light read.  There are deep issues of helping others, faith, family, and sickness discussed.  This is a thought provoking book that I had to read a little at a time and then ponder.  It made me emotional and sad in a lot of places.

It is the first book I have read by author McGowan and I had a little trouble following it. It didn’t flow as smoothly as most books that I’ve read.  It is Book two in a series which might cause the problem for me.

For this Grandmother the character we’re too eccentric with their brightly colored hair, Mohawk cut, tattoos, and piercings.  Even some of the conversation sounded off to me.  The characters were vividly described.

The author tackled tough, present day issues in her Christian novel.   This is a well organized and researched book.  The storyline has parenting issues, mental illness, homelessness, PTSD, and facing trials in life.  Like I said earlier, this is not a light read.

The people, how they lived, and all of the tough issues all stayed with me.  It made me see how much help certain people need and how blessed others are. At the end notes the author states  that one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders in their lifetime. That is a staggering number.

Inspirational messages are included with the rough issues.  Letting the Holy Spirit work in your life, trusting in God, and having faith are mentioned as crucial.  It is refreshing to have Christian messages in a book filled with so many problems.

I would recommend this book to a younger age group than mine, although the book has made an impact and stuck with me.  It needs to be read in a group so it may be discussed.  I would recommend reading Book One first.

It received a 4 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review.

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About the Book

Shine the LightShannon is out to save the world one caring act at a time. She’s stood by her best friend, Amber, through their whole lives especially when Amber lost her sight. She has an active outreach ministry to the homeless and disenfranchised. And she’s even let down her guard long enough to let a boyfriend, Justin, into her life.

Her life has settled into a pleasing routine of teaching, freelance photography work, quiet dinners with Justin, and taking Amber on treks to find new subjects for her visionary paintings. But when a man from her past shows up, her secure world crumbles into triggered PTSD episodes that threaten everything she relies on. Will she be able to overcome these old memories, or will her past crush any hopes she had for a future?



About the Author


April MsGowenApril McGowan loves to read and write inspirational fiction. She and her husband, two children, and her ‘mews’ (three cats!), live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. April is a member of Oregon Christian Writers, the Christian Author’s Network, and American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not writing, homeschooling her son, or playing board games, you might find her at her drum kit, imagining she’s on a world tour. Hey, it could happen.


More from April


Writing About Tough Subjects—with Hope


I began writing over twenty years ago. And technically I wrote long before that as well. But those pieces were ‘just for fun.’ However, as I look back on my short stories, blog posts, and now my published work, there’s a definite theme: overcoming. Overcoming childhood abuse, overcoming an abusive marriage, overcoming loss—physical and emotional. And those overcoming stories were not about overcoming through our own strength, which is so often flawed and lacking, but by relying on the One who can heal us from every wrong, every hurt, and every loss.


After my first novel, Jasmine, I asked my readers what they’d like me to focus on in my next books—what subjects were overlooked in fiction today? The overwhelming consensus was adoption, loss, and mental illness.


As a contemporary fiction author, I stay current on social issues, so that wasn’t a huge jump for me. My readers saw a gap, and I did, too.


Not that it’s wrong to simply read for entertainment—shoot, I do! But I’ve always loved gripping stories with people I could identify with who were overcoming obstacles I’d faced, or watched a loved one face—stories that offer real hope in the face of tragedy.


So began my journey. In book one of this series, Hold the Light, I wrote about sight loss and adoption. I wrote about best friends who were solidly there for each other in the face of great hardship and pain. And in book two, Shine the Light, I’m doing the same—with a twist.


There’s a lack of representation and writing concerning mental illness and how it affects the sufferer and those around them. There is a stigma that is significantly changing, but it’s something we’re still hesitant to discuss. Myself and many I know are deeply touched by this issue, and I think we’re long past due letting those that suffer from mental illness and their families know that they are not alone. Or if they are, that they don’t have to be.


Book two, Shine the Light, is about Shannon’s life. Her love for the downtrodden, the lost, and the injured. Her passion for the underdog. How she became the stalwart friend she is to Amber in Hold the Light, the obstacles she’s overcome, and those she has to continue to grapple through with God’s help.


As with all of my books, I’ve vetted this story with people who have faced these situations and am very careful to respect their stories as well as staying true to my characters. I hope you’ll dive in and find Shannon to be a deep and real and identifiable character. I hope you’ll discover in her a friend.


I know you’ll grow to love her as I do.


The giveaway: Many of my books are set in Portland, Oregon, and as a celebration of that, I’m offering a giveaway celebrating two of my favorite things about the city: Powell’s books and super good coffee! Also cats…but I can’t give one of those away in a contest! Well…I could try, but I’d probably fall in love with it and never send it to you…so for now, books and coffee!


Blog Stops


Quiet Quilter, May 4


The Power of Words, May 4


Godly Book Reviews, May 5


Simple Harvest Reads, May 6 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)


Through the Fire Blogs, May 7


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 8


Real World Bible Study, May 9


Retrospective Spines, May 9


For Him and My Family, May 10


Mary Hake, May 10


Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 11


janicesbookreviews, May 11


Pause for Tales, May 12


A Reader’s Brain, May 12


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 13


The Christian Fiction Girl, May 14


Carpe Diem, May 15


Inklings and notions, May 15 


Inspired by Fiction, May 16


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 17


Texas Book-aholic, May 17


Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, April is giving away a grand prize of a $20 Powell’s gift card, a Powell’s coffee mug, and Stumptown coffee!!


Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e21c/shine-the-light-celebration-tour-giveaway


 

	


	



					
						


	

		
Shadow Among Sheaves Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
Today I am pleased to tell you about a remarkable book that I just read.  “Shadow Among Sheaves” written by author Naomi Stephens is a beautiful retelling of the biblical story of Ruth.  This one is set in 1850’s England and is an exquisite novel.  It is one of my favorite “modern” day takes on Ruth’s story that I have ever read.


Author Stephens has written a realistic retelling in this book.  It makes sense.  Her beautifully written work grabbed me and guided me inside its pages.  I was no longer in my comfy chair reading but in England with Rena, her mother-in-law Nell, and Lord Barric.  From the very beginning I was invested in this superbly written tale.  It is a page turning, reader’s treasure.


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Not only did I read the book, I lived it.  I felt the snubs, was hurt by the insults, and understood the pain.  The women had a hard time and I wanted to offer help.  The author took me on an emotional roller coaster ride with this book.  I made new friends and found people I did not like.  Even ones I liked had moments where they were human and failed.


A review for this stunning book could be summed up in one word. . . WOW!   It is amazing.  This is a very well researched, well planned, and extremely well written book.  It needs to be a movie.  Yes, it is that great.


The characters are all believable.  They are well rounded with character flaws as well as redeeming attributes.  The scenery and daily life are vividly described.  I easily imagined I was gleaning in the fields, trying new foods, and seeing new things just as Rena.


The story is a bit predictable if you know your Bible but it also has some twists and surprises.  It has a good faith message and deals with tough modern day issues such as prejudice, bullying, pride, family, forgiveness, respect, and social standing.


There is so much packed into its pages.  I learned historical facts about India and England.  There was mystery, intrigue, romance, and discussions on placing priorities, family relationships, charity, gossip, and friendship.


I will be watching for more books from author Naomi Stephens.  You should, too.  This one was phenomenal.  I highly recommend it.  I rated it 5 out of 5.  A copy was provided by the publisher but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, honest words.


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About the Book


Shadow amonght Sheaves


Book: Shadow Among Sheaves


Author: Naomi Stephens


Genre: Christian Historical Fiction


Release Date: April, 2019


A Timeless, Beautiful Allegory of the Biblical Love Story of Ruth and Boaz


The Great Rebellion of 1857 was a remarkably bloody business. At a time when Britain’s imperial influence in India was sparking brutal clashes on both sides, no one could have expected Rena, an Indian woman, to marry a British officer—nor do they understand her decision to follow her mother-in-law to England after her husband’s tragic death.


Once the two widows are in Abbotsville, the stern yet compassionate Lord Barric attempts to help them despite his better judgment. Soon he is torn between the demands of reputation and his increasing desire to capture Rena’s heart for his own.


About the Author


Naomi StephensNaomi Stephens is a bookworm turned teacher turned writer. She received a M.A. in English from Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne and now lives in Ohio with her husband, her two children, and a rascal of a dog named Sherlock.


More from Naomi


A Timeless, Beautiful Allegory of the Biblical Love Story of Ruth and Boaz


The Great Rebellion of 1857 was a remarkably bloody business. At a time when Britain’s imperial influence in India was sparking brutal clashes on both sides, no one could have expected Rena, an Indian woman, to marry a British officer—nor do they understand her decision to follow her mother-in-law to England after her husband’s tragic death.


Once the two widows are in Abbotsville, the stern yet compassionate Lord Barric attempts to help them despite his better judgment. Soon he is torn between the demands of reputation and his increasing desire to capture Rena’s heart for his own. Which will he choose? Find out in Shadow Among Sheaves by Naomi Stephens.


Read an Exclusive Excerpt from Shadow Among Sheaves: 


She smiled, stepping closer and placing her hand on the horse’s wet snout. Samson was a pretty beast with wide, ponderous eyes and a few splotches of gray around his nose. The soft puff of air Samson snorted into her palm brought a delighted smile to her lips, and she gasped as he bowed his neck to nuzzle his nose against her stomach. She felt her smile leap into a grin. It was a delightful change, to feel joy so deep it finally showed.


Barric circled around Samson to stand beside her, his hands never leaving the reins. “He’s fond of you,” he remarked as Samson dropped his snout against her hip.


“Unsurprising, I suppose. Though he could also be searching you for a carrot.”


Surprised to hear Lord Barric speak so teasingly, and pleased by the gentle light she found in his otherwise tired eyes, Rena laughed her faint agreement. “That will teach me to come empty-handed, won’t it?”


Their smiles both dropped as a young, lanky stable hand came rushing out to take Samson, and Barric relinquished his hold on the reins, nodding his silent thanks.


As soon as the stable boy had disappeared with Samson, Bar¬ric glanced back at Rena. “Are you going home?” he asked, nodding toward the dusty road looping down the hill to William’s house.


She stepped back, realizing she had dawdled longer than she’d first intended. “Yes,” she answered. “I often come this way to avoid the other workers.”


“Might I walk with you?” He turned to hang his whip on a peg. “Just a short stretch of the road?”


Stunned by his request, and a bit suspicious of his motive, she nonetheless nodded. “Yes, of course.”


Barric drew up beside her, his even strides betraying no unease, though he was silent for some time as they made their way down the golden-colored hill.


“You have seemed tired these past few days,” he observed. Rena did not bother to deny it. She’d been working hard to keep up with the others, as Barric had told her she must, and felt wearier for it. She had tried to split her days in half, the mornings spent binding sheaves with the women and the afternoons spent picking for her own stores, but the work was backbreaking, and, as he had already pointed out once before, she was not used to hard labor. “I realize I haven’t really asked you how you are settling in,” he went on.


“Perhaps you’ve been too busy provoking me,” she answered before she could stop herself.


Barric’s eyebrow inched up as he slanted an approving smirk down at her. “Perhaps.”


Rena cursed her honest tongue. She must have been more tired than she thought, to speak so freely to a man of title. “I have been well,” she tried again, a bit more diplomatically. “The house suits us, if that is what you are asking.”


“The people here do not speak to you unkindly?”


“The people do not speak to me at all.” She had meant to sound casual, unaffected, but heard the hurt in her own voice she hadn’t been able to weed out. As Barric’s expression tightened, she hastened to amend, “Except for you, my lord. Of course. And the Wilmots.”


“They are good people,” he agreed quietly. “And will you be coming with them to the festival this evening?”


She hesitated. According to Alice, harvest home was a yearly tra¬dition, a night of raucous drinking and dancing to celebrate the close of the harvest. All of Abbotsville would be there—landowners, stew-ards, even tenant farmers and common laborers. But Rena was none of those things, and she and Barric both knew it.


“Come,” Barric teased, “do not tell me you are afraid to go. I would never have thought it of you.”


“I am not afraid,” she insisted. “I just had not thought about it.”


At her defensive tone, he smiled—a true smile—one that pinched the corners of his eyes and pressed grooves along the outer edges of his mouth. “You ought to come,” he decided. “Everyone in Abbotsville is welcome, and many are the men who would feel lucky to dance with you.”


But, of course, Lord Barric knew this was not true. The men in his fields regarded her mostly with contempt and made no secret of it— they would not count themselves at all lucky to dance with her. Was Lord Barric trying to offer her words of comfort? Or was he trying to convey a message?


Did he want to dance with her?


This was hardly a safe question, and so she asked another. “Do you dance, Lord Barric?”


When he met her gaze, so direct, she was all the more glad she had not stammered in her reply. The man walked a dangerous line whenever he deigned to speak to her. Far too close, she’d think, and then stern enough to cool her blood with a word.


He surprised her with another smile, this one a faint twist at the corner of his lips. “Perhaps you would have to come to find out.”


Blog Stops


Godly Book Reviews, April 30


Mary Hake, April 30


Worthy2Read, April 30


Back Porch Reads, May 1


Inspirationally Ever After, May 1


Fiction Aficionado, May 2


Splashes of Joy, May 2


Christian Chick’s Thoughts, May 2


Bigreadersite, May 3


Inklings and notions , May 3


Blossoms and Blessings, May 3


Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 4


janicesbookreviews, May 4


Just the Write Escape, May 5


Stephanie’s Life of Determination, May 5


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 6


For Him and My Family, May 6


Kat’s Corner Books, May 7


Pause for Tales, May 7


Aryn The Libraryan, May 8


Faery Tales Are Real, May 8


Hallie Reads, May 8


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 9


Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 9


Locks, Hooks and Books, May 9


Through the Fire Blogs, May 10


The Becca Files, May 10


The Christian Fiction Girl, May 11


Older & Smarter?, May 11


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 11


Texas Book-aholic, May 12


Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 12


A Reader’s Brain, May 13


For the Love of Literature, May 13


Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, Naomi is giving away a grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card and a finished paperback copy of Shadow Among Sheaves!!


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/deb9/shadow-among-sheaves-celebration-tour-giveaway


 


 

	


	



					
						


	

		
Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations Celebrate Lit Book Tour

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
You have found my stop for Celebrate Lit’s Book tour and giveaway for author V. Joy Palmer’s “Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations” novel.  I have information on the book, author, and tour for you.  Check out the generous giveaway at the end of this blog.  It looks like someone is going to be very happy!


My Thoughts


This is the first book by author Palmer that I have read.  I thought the cover was intriguing as was the title.  Her novel is a 334 Contemporary Christian romance.  I am thrilled to say that there is no doubt this is a Christian book.  While not preachy, there are many great inspirational messages packed within this book’s pages.


The writing style was nice.  It flowed well for the most part.  The switch in point of view threw me for a moment, but it was not that problematic.  The humor was heavy and entertaining.  The wedding planning business was wonderful and one of my favorite parts.  I could well imagine the magical venues and ecstatic brides.


Most of the characters were well rounded and nicely developed.  It was easy to like them and become invested in their stories.  However, unfortunately this wasn’t the case for me and Apryl, the main character.  She came off as a bratty, mean girl.  Her words were hurtful and sarcastic.  It is hard to like someone that hurts people with their words over and over.  I know she had a rough life but I could not engage with her.  The problem might be personal preferences or age.  (I do not enjoy reading about someone hurting others by their harsh tone or words.  It felt like this book was written for a younger generation than mine.)


The Christian messages of God having plans for our lives and not listening to the lies the devil whispers to us are wonderful.  The story was cute and for the most part so we’re the characters.  I would recommend this to lovers of contemporary fiction, especially young adults.  I rated it a 3 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review.


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About the Book


Book: Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations


Author: V. Joy Palmer


Genre: Contemporary Romantic Comedy


Release Date: February 14, 2019


Weddings, Willows, and Revised ExpectationsSeventeen years after being orphaned, Apryl Burns and her twin sister Courtney have their own expectations for life. While Courtney continues to shine at everything, Apryl holds fast to the mantra that as long as her potato chip stash remains intact, then she’ll be fine.


But when their beloved grandmother ends up injured and unable to manage her struggling antique store, Courtney makes it their mission to revamp the business and save what’s left of their family’s legacy. Despite rampant doubts in her abilities, Apryl finds herself trapped under the weight of family loyalty as they transition to a wedding venue decorating service. Soon shes forced to ask (translation: blackmail) their grandmother’s renter/handyman, Chance McFarland, for help, an arrangement that is made even worse by the fact that Chance is her former (ahem, and current) crush.


Chance knows a few dozen things about family loyalty, which is why he begrudgingly agrees to Apryl’s insane plan. While Apryl claims they’re archenemies, the girl Chance only glimpsed in their teens starts to emerge, stealing what remains of his heart.


But expectations are a powerful thing. Amidst the glamorous weddings and swaying willows, can those old expectations be revised into something new?


Click here to purchase your copy.


About the Author


V. Joy PalmerJoy Palmer is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterationsand a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. In her spare time, Joy is an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens she mentors. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their socially awkward pets.


Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!


 


More from Joy


I’ll confess something to you guys.


For about a year, I hated these characters. Like I vehemently hated them. For their refusal to bow to my will, I counted the ways I could take revenge against them for my own sadistic pleasure, and I seriously considered printing the manuscript just so I could burn it in an oil drum while I laughed like a Disney villain. I’m told my “Ursula laugh” is uncanny.


Some of you may be laughing. Some of you may be rolling your eyes. Some of you may be gasping in horror at the thought of an author killing her beloved characters. Or some of you may smirk and say, “I’ve been there, only I did kill my characters.”


I dove into the story with a wide-eyed innocence that came from thinking I was in charge of the story. My characters slapped that doe-eyed look off my face, letting me know I had no idea what I was doing. Sure, I knew the basics… They start off arguing, then fall in love… I had a couple great kiss scenes planned… Worth in God would be explored… Jokes would be made… But I could not get these stubborn characters to cooperate, and I was pulling my hair out by the roots trying to force them to get on board with my excellent program! I didn’t understand them, and their actions didn’t make any sense. Then my computer crashed…and died…taking over twelve thousand words with it. (A part of me thinks Apryl was behind it.) Suddenly, I was at square one, but I was actually a little relieved. Now I could start over.


Cue muffled sobs here.


After the untimely demise of my computer, I went to the 2016 American Christian Fiction Writers conference. At that conference, Ted Dekker said something in one of his keynote sessions that changed everything for me.


“Write to discover yourself.”


I still get chills when I think about this, and it has nothing to do with the below zero temperatures in my neck of the woods.


My writing changed after that. I made myself vulnerable, pouring my heart into Apryl and Chance’s journey like it was my personal journey. And as my literary world started to blossom, my literal world felt like it was being scorched by an exploding sun of heartache. And when that nasally (or does it only sound that way in my head?) voice whispered that I was worthless, God’s declaration of love was a big, bold font across the pages.


Through Apryl and Chance, I rediscovered my own worth to my Father.


And I hope you can, too.


I hope you laugh (the seagull scene is a favorite of mine). I hope you swoon (Apryl and Chance Forever!!). I would be especially pleased if you had to look up one or two pop culture references because I’ll just feel cool. But more than anything I hope you can rediscover your worth in our Father’s eyes, whether it’s for the first time or the seven hundred and eleventh time.


Our worth isn’t defined by our jobs, our mistakes, our families, or the plans we have. Our worth is in a loving God who calls each of His children by name. Our worth is in our Father.


Set to the tune of a romantic comedy, there are a lot of little truths sprinkled throughout Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations, but our worth in God is the glue that holds it all together – at least for me! This was the truth I wanted to convey in Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations all along. But until I started to understand this (I definitely haven’t mastered it!) in my own heart, how could I write about it?


I hope you guys enjoy Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations. I hope this truth touches your heart in some way.


And I hope you laugh. A lot.


Hugs,


Joy Palmer


Blog Stops


Simple Harvest Reads, April 27 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)


Pause for Tales, April 27


The Becca Files, April 28


Moments, April 28


Godly Book Reviews, April 29


Just Your Average reviews, April 29


Kat’s Corner Books, April 30


Creating Romance, April 30


Maureen’s Musings, May 1


Hallie Reads, May 1


For Him and My Family, May 2


Vicky Sluiter, May 2


Wishful Endings, May 3


Emily Yager, May 3


The Christian Fiction Girl, May 4


Inklings and notions, May 4


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 5


Locks, Hooks and Books, May 5


Through the Fire Blogs, May 6


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 6


Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 7


A Baker’s Perspective, May 8


Cultivating us, May 8


Texas Book-aholic, May 9


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 9


A Reader’s Brain, May 10


janicesbookreviews, May 10


Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, Joy is giving away a grand prize package that includes a signed copy of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations,

a signed copy of Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations, a Hand-Carved Reading Willow Tree Figurine,  a Character-Inspired Locket,

a Custom Roaring Twenties Book Sleeve from The Cozy Life Etsy Shop, an Anne of Green Gables Mug Rug from Bookish Star Designs Etsy Shop, and a Chai Latte Soy Candle in a Vintage Mug from Joplin House Cafe!!


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/dfea/weddings-willows-and-revised-expectations-celebration-tour-giveaway








 


 

	


	



					
						


	

		
“Uniquely Common” by Author Caryl McAdoo Celebrate Lit Book Tour

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
Welcome to my stop on Celebrate Lit’s tour for “Uniquely Common” by Author Caryl McAdoo.  We will talk about the Book, learn about the author, and hear her thoughts on the book.  She has a generous giveaway so be sure to enter it at the end.  Let’s get started.


My Thoughts


The first thing I noticed was the beautiful cover on Uniquely Common by Caryl McAdoo.  The next thing was that it was part of the Lockets and Lace Collection.  The title of the book “Uniquely Uncommon” struck me as intriguing, also.  All that being said, I was ready to dive in.


From page one this book had my interest.  I became invested in the characters lives quickly.  Poor Asher, a widower with two daughters and a younger sister tagging along on his journey out West.  Christine (Chrissy), his sister, had just been jilted by her scoundrel of a boyfriend.  The girls, her adorable nieces, decide to become matchmakers for their beloved auntie.


Wow, what a delightful book.  I giggled my way through it.  Author McAdoo has a knack for combining inspiration, faith, humor, history, and romance into one entertaining book that keeps readers on their toes.  Plenty of twists and turns are added to maintain interest throughout the story.  For me, the faith element was not as strong as in some of her books, but it is still woven from beginning to end.  There is no question that this is a Christian Fiction novel. This books lives up to its Christian Fiction categorization.


Set in 1851, this book takes readers on a train ride and then boat journey to California.  It has many fun historical facts about the time period and pioneers.  I love books that leave me with information.  It is a fun way to learn.


Author McAdoo scoops readers right up and plops them down in the middle of her setting and storyline.  Her characters become friends as I “live” each book.  This brilliant offering was well thought, researched, and exquisitely written.


Whether you are a seasoned fan of Caryl McAdoo or this will be your first time to experience one of her books, you will no doubt love it.  I certainly did.  She brings characters, settings, and situations to live with her lovely engaging writing style.


I highly recommend this book.  It is a fast paced one so be prepared to call out for dinner or eat left overs.  You won’t want to stop reading to cook dinner!  I didn’t.  There are no discussion questions at the end, but there are sneak previews for upcoming books.  “Uniquely Common” gets a 5 out of 5 stars from me.   It was a page-turning delight for me.  I think a book club would love reading and discussing this book.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own thoughts and opinions.


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About the Book


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Book: Uniquely Common


Author: Caryl McAdoo


Genre: Christian Historical Romance


Release Date: April 4, 2019


Steel sharpens steel, but will its sparks ignite unfailing love?


Instead of living a pampered life on the civilized east coast with a new husband, rejection compels Christina Adams westward with her widowed brother and his two daughters. Harboring ulterior motives, Ethan Cord, the man her brother hires to accompany the family, is more a match for her, and he appears almost perfect, but how could she possibly trust her instincts about him when she’d been so wrong about her previous fiancé? Will her past ruin her future?


Click here to purchase your copy.


About the Author


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Award-winning author Caryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory, and her best-selling novels—over forty published—delight Christian readers around the world. The prolific writer also enjoys singing the new songs the Lord gives her—listen to a few at YouTube. Sharing four children and eighteen grandsugars with Ron, her high-school-sweetheart-husband of fifty years, she lives in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas. The McAdoos wait expectantly for God to open the next door.


One thing I love about this book is that as it draws to its end in Saint Joseph, Missouri, a new young woman is introduced, Remi, and her book—my May ‘Prairie Roses Collection’ story REMI—continues with the Adams family and segues into a new romance!


I hope readers will love that as well, praying my story gives God glory!


More from Caryl


I’m so excited about this year’s Lockets and Lace story! I’ve fallen in love with its characters. Asher and his sister Christina, his girls Samantha and Patricia, and his friend, Ethan Cord is certainly a man’s man though he has a checkered past to overcome.


His wife dies in childbirth, leaving him with two little girls, then when his parents pass, too, what’s to tie Asher Adams to New York?


His younger sister Christina is about to be settled into her new life, married and well cared for, so there’s nothing holding the wine merchant back from his dreams of owning a vineyard in the Napa Valley. He decides a new life in the west is the best thing for him and his daughters.


Then at the last minute, the family is turned upside down when the rogue engaged to Christina dumps her and calls the wedding off. Asher’s already sold the brownstone. She suddenly has nowhere to go and no one to watch over her if he leaves.


She never wanted to, but he insists her only choice is to go with them, accompany him and her nieces and make her new life in California . . . and he knows the perfect man for her, too!


Blog Stops


Through the Fire Blogs, April 23


Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, April 24


Splashes of Joy, April 25


D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, April 25


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 26


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 27


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 28


Bigreadersite, April 28


Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 29


For Him and My Family, April 30


Texas Book-aholic, May 1


janicesbookreviews, May 2


A Reader’s Brain, May 3


KarenSueHadley, May 4


Inklings and notions, May 5


The Becca Files, May 6


Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away


Grand Prize $50 Amazon Gift Card


1st Place – Print copy of UNIQUELY COMMON


2nd place – eBook copy of UNIQUELY COMMON


3rd place – Choice eBook of Caryl’s FORTY+ titles!!


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/de84/uniquely-common-celebration-tour-giveaway

	


	



					
						


	

		
Thirty Days Hath Book Tour and Giveaway

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
“Thirty Days Hath” is a very creative, original contemporary Christian romance offering from author Chautona Havig.  She injects her unique writing style which lends humor, emotion, and twists into this unique novel just like she has her other ones.  It’s a delightful tale unlike any I have ever read.


This is the story of bachelor Adric Garrison.  His sister and her minister husband have come up with a plan to help Adric find Mrs. Right.  Their scheme is a cross between the television show The Bachelor and an online dating service.  Two ministers take applications for potential girlfriends for Adric.  Each approved applicant along with her chaperone will come and live with Adric for a month.  How’s that for discovering compatibility?


The Christian element could be stronger, but it is definitely there.  I’m not sure how likely it is that a minister would be involved in an idea of this type, but this is not real life.  It is a fun book.  For me it was a page turner.  I was invested in Adric’s life and had a hard time putting the book down.


There was a wide variety of characters in this book and I do mean characters.  The women were all so different in very many ways.  Secondary characters, Adric’s sister’s children, his friends, the chaperones, and his workers were all well done.  Dialogue throughout this novel is plentiful and realistic.


The premise of someone actually doing this, going into a stranger’s home and living there with him for a month, sounds ridiculous.  However, I’m sure if pitched as a television series it would get serious consideration.  The idea of “calendar” girls competing for a man did not seem realistic to me, but then neither do a lot of the dating shows on tv.


It was a fun read and had me turning the pages to see what was going to happen next.  I loved the Christian element, the sweet romance, the lighthearted humor, and even the emotional side of it.   Author Havig has written a quirky, delightfully transparent look into the world of mature dating.  This is well written, well planned, researched, and organized great.


Definitely I would recommend.  Anyone that likes Contemporary romance will love this.  I rated this a 4 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided but I was under no obligation to leave a favorable review.  These are my own, honest thoughts.


About the Book


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Book: Thirty Days Hath


Author: Chautona Havig


Genre: Christian fiction, contemporary romance


Release Date: Revised edition, Feb 26, 2019


Blind Dates Are for Wimps!


At least, that’s what Adric Garrison thinks.

Can you blame him? Thanks to his sister and brother-in-law, Adric is about to embark on a year of month-long, chaperoned, blind dates. Awkward.


He didn’t ask for it. But Adric still finds himself living what seems more like a bad TV reality show than a new life in Fairbury.


Once an ordinary (if prematurely gray and vertically challenged) guy, Adric is now Fairbury’s newest “most eligible bachelor,” and dreams of permanent bachelorhood loom on the horizon. Will he call it quits before the year is out, or will one of his “girls of the month” change his mind?


One man, twelve women, one happily ever after.


About the Author


ChautonaChautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her on the web and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.


More from Chautona


A SILENT TRUTH NO ONE ADMITS: BLIND DATES ARE FOR WIMPS


Maybe I’m not the one to talk. After all, I never dated. Not really. My best friend in high school was a guy. We went to the movies. We did things. Still, we were just great friends.


I had what might be considered one date in Lubbock, Texas in 1987. Maybe. I didn’t consider it one, but I suppose the guy might have. Maybe.


Then I went from best friends with the guy I’ve been married to for 30 years to engaged in the span of a few seconds after what might have been a rhetorical question. He’s under orders not to tell me if it was. After all, he’s the fool who went on to say, “I do.” Just sayin’.


Still, in the first decade of the 21st century, I discovered a new “thing” in reality TV. The Bachelor. Though I tried watching it, I couldn’t after a while. It started out reasonably clean, but then it devolved into cat fights, spit-swapping sessions, and drama. Oh, the drama.


But one aspect intrigued me. The focused attention to finding the girl. What if Christians did that? What if we stopped playing the silly game of “pretend we’re not in this to see if you’re someone I could put up with for the next fifty or sixty years…”? Oh, man. What if the church rallied around its members and helped without pushing.


Trust me, you don’t want to push too much. You may discover that the people you’re pushing just get together and talk about it. Laugh at your antics. Mock the ridiculousness of it. Not that Kevin and I ever did that back in the day or anything. (Check out that story HERE.)


That “what if?” spurred an idea.


Sister churches. Chaperones. Not a couple of weeks in a giant house somewhere, but a whole month of real living with someone, day in. Day out. And again, with that chaperone to avoid that “appearance of evil” thing. If you could spend that much time with someone, seeing warts, virtues, best and worst sides… well, maybe you might just be right for each other.


At the least, you’d have a good idea if you even wanted to find out. That’s a healthier and quicker start than two or three months of a date here or there and hoping you’re seeing the real person. Right?


I created a character and ran with it. From giving him less than Hollywood good looks, to an anger problem and a blue-collar job, Adric had lots going for him… and not so much!


Then I tested it out. Acid test. I signed him up for eHarmony.


No, really. I did.


For the record, apparently short, prematurely graying mechanics with anger issues are a hot commodity. It took hours to get it set up, but man there were many women out there for him… supposedly.


And to this day, my Gmail email (that I never use) still says adricgarrison@gmail.com. No joke.


For what it’s worth, Adric learned one very difficult lesson that year.


As I’ve already confessed. I’ve never been on a blind date. I doubt anyone would even consider that I’ve been on a date. Still, after writing this book, I know for one thing.Blind Dates Are for Wimps.


Blog Stops


Quiet Quilter, April 15


Through the Fire Blogs, April 15


For Him and My Family, April 16


cultivating us, April 16


Godly Book Reviews, April 17


mpbooks, April 17


Among the Reads, April 18


Multifarious, April 19


Inspired by Fiction, April 19


EmpowerMoms, April 20


SusanLovesBooks, April 20


Remembrancy, April 21


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 21


Rebekah’s Quill, April 22


Texas Book-aholic, April 22


Aryn The Libraryan, April 23


janicesbookreviews, April 23


Lots of Helpers, April 24


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 24


A Reader’s Brain, April 25


Bigreadersite, April 26


Inklings and notions, April 26


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 27


The Becca Files, April 27


Real World Bible Study, April 28


God’s Peculiar Treasure Rae, April 28


Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away a grand prize of a paperback copy of Thirty Days Hath, book cozy, and a $25 Starbucks gift card!!


Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into to the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/dee7/thirty-days-hath-celebration-tour-giveaway




 

	


	



					
						


	

		
The Governess of Penwythe Hall Book Tour and Giveaway

				

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Welcome to Celebrate Lit’s Book Tour for “The Governess of Penwythe Hall” by author Sarah E. Ladd.  I hope you enjoy reading about this Regency romance.  Be sure to enter the giveaway which is detailed at the bottom.


My Thoughts


The first thing that drew me in to this novel was the beautiful, serene cover.  Next was the writing that captivated me from the very beginning.  Author Ladd has done a brilliant job with this poignant tale.


This is the story of Cordelia (Delia) Greythorne.  The book opens with her being newly widowed and threatened by her mother-in-law.  Immediately my heart went out to her and I felt her emotions.  I was invested in her story and could not put the book down.


The characters are very well thought in this English early 1800 fiction piece.  Delia is a strong woman with an admirable character.  She is employed as a governess and dearly loves the children under her care. Jac Twethewey of Penwythe Hall is the guardian for the children.  He is also their estranged uncle.  His character is also a strong willed one.  The children are delightful, especially little Miss Sophy.


Many relevant timely issues are touched upon in this stirring book.  Right at the beginning there is a major family issue and death.  Faith, depending on God, caring for others, facing fears, smugglers, making choices, and forgiveness are all touched on in this book.


In this book I found intrigue, mystery, light romance, history, inspiration, as well as twists and turns.  The writing was well done and took me to a place and time that I had never been.  It was easy to imagine the crashing salty waves and crusty characters.  I loved the attention to detail.  It was evident the author did her research.


I would recommend this for Regency lovers.  It is a very nice story that is engaging until the end.  I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was not required to write a review.  These are my honest thoughts.


 


About the Book


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Book: The Governess of Penwythe Hall


Author: Sarah Ladd


Genre: Historical Romance


Release Date: April 16, 2019






In the first of a new series from beloved Regency romance author, Sarah Ladd, Delia, a governess to five recently orphaned children, would risk anything to protect them . . . even her heart.  Cornwall was in her blood, and Delia feared she’d never escape its hold.





Cornwall, England, 1811






Blamed for her husband’s death, Cordelia Greythorne fled Cornwall and accepted a governess position to begin a new life. Years later her employer’s unexpected death and his last request to watch over his five children force her to reevaluate. She can’t abandon the children now that they’ve lost both parents, but their new guardian lives at the timeworn Penwythe Hall . . . back on the Cornish coast she tries desperately to forget.








Jac Trethewey is determined to revive Penwythe Hall’s once-flourishing apple orchards, and he’ll stop at nothing to see his struggling estate profitable again. He hasn’t heard from his brother in years, so when his nieces, nephews, and their governess arrive unannounced at Penwythe Hall, he battles both grief of this brother’s death and bewilderment over this sudden responsibility. Jac’s priorities shift as the children take up residence in the ancient halls, but their secretive governess—and the mystery shrouding her past—proves to be a disruption to his carefully laid plans.






Rich with family secrets, lingering danger, and the captivating allure of new love, this first book in the Cornwall Novels series introduces us to the Twethewey family and their search for peace, justice, and love on the Cornish coast.





About the Author










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






Mounts Bay fishing fleet






More About the Governess of Penwythe Hall




5 things to know about Cornwall, England:


1. Throughout its early history, Cornwall’s inhabitants called the country Kernow.

2.  Early inhabitants largely spoke their own language known as “Cornish,” which became nearly extinct in the 1800s

3.  The country has a long and rugged coastline and there were frequent shipwrecks.

4.  Fishing was a major industry, with herring, mackerel, and sardines being common catches.

5.  In 1870, novelist and poet Thomas Hardy called Cornwall “the region of dream and mystery.”




Imagine yourself in The Governess of Penwythe Hall with these pictures of 19th Century life in Cornwall











Blog Stops


Back Porch Reads, April 11



Moments, April 11


Genesis 5020, April 11




Mary Hake, April 12



KarenSueHadley, April 13


EmpowerMoms, April 13




The Avid Reader, April 14





Wishful Endings, April 15


Simple Harvest Reads, April 15 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)





The Becca Files, April 16




Remembrancy, April 17


Worthy2Read, April 18


By The Book, April 18











Pause for Tales, April 21



Bigreadersite, April 22






Hallie Reads, April 23


Henry Happens, April 24











Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, Sarah is giving away a grand prize of a finished paperback copy of The Governess of Penwythe  Hall.  Be sure to comment on the blog stops (schedule below) for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click here to enter and Good Luck! Sarah Ladd has created audio clips from The Governess of Penwythe Hall that will allow readers to hear how the Cornish names are pronounced.  The audio clips are available on Sound Cloud.

	


	



					
						


	

		
“When You Are Near” by Tracie Peterson Book Tour & Giveaway

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
Today’s blog features Celebrate Lit’s Book Tour of Author Tracie Peterson’s “When You Are Near.”  This Christian historical romance is Book One in her new series “Brookstone Brides.”  As with all of the Celebrate Lit Book Tours, you have a chance to win a great prize or two.  Be sure to read all of the way to the bottom and enter.


My Thoughts on the Book


Within the first chapter I knew this was a Christian book so I was thrilled.  It is witnessed in their daily lives and not heavily preached.  This is a very different tale than any I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed it.  I bet you would, also.


The author has an easy style of writing.  She doesn’t rush her story but lets it blossom as it unfolds.  The characters are engaging.  They are described in such a way that I wanted to be their friend. The storyline has been well planned and researched.  Attention is given to details and I was able to glean some things from this story.


This is the tale of Lizzy Brookstone, a female trick rider in a Wild West show.  Author Peterson vividly describes the action so it is easy to picture the riders and stunts.  There is even a female sharp shooter.  It is amazing the things these ladies can do.  Lizzie and her mother are grieving the death of Lizzie’s father.  My heart broke for them in some places.  I could feel their pain and loss.  Their emotions jumped from the pages straight into me.


As the story progresses we meet more characters with their own baggage.    Both men and women alike add to the story and will certainly return in Book Two.  It is a well rounded cast of lovable and not so lovable people.


This book contains something for everyone.  Danger, mystery, intrigue, romance, inspiration, and plenty of action.   It takes on love, death, faith, hope, friendship, family, justice and God’s protection.  I encountered a few twists and turns as well as some life lessons within the pages, too.  The characters range from an English gentleman to rowdy  wrangling cowboys.  


This is another page turning, don’t put me down book from talented booksmith Peterson.  She provided entertainment, education, and inspiration.  The only thing I missed was a discussion question section.  I highly recommend this beautifully written novel.  Anyone would adore it.  It earns a 5 out of 5 stars from me.  A copy was provided by by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, honest word


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About the Book


When You Are Near


Book: When You Are Near


Author: Tracie Peterson


Genre: Christian Historical Romance


Release Date: March 5, 2018


After her father’s death, Lizzy Brookstone, a trick rider in the all-female Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza, wants nothing more than to quit her role as the star of the show and live a quiet life on her family’s ranch. But returning home would bring Wesley DeShazer, the ranch’s foreman and the man who broke her heart, back into her life. In addition, the Brookstones’ new manager fears that Lizzy’s departure could doom the already cash-strapped show.


Hope grows in Lizzy during a stopover at Fleming Farm. Ella Fleming not only has a natural talent for trick riding and could easily replace Lizzy, but she’s eager to join the show to flee a forced betrothal. However, while there, one of the show’s wranglers is killed in a manner Lizzy finds suspicious. And during her escape from the farm, Ella stumbles across a secret that could affect all of their lives, as well as the future of the Brookstone Extravaganza.


Click here to purchase your copy.


About the Author


Peterson, TracieTracie Peterson (www.traciepeterson.com) is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 100 novels. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana.


Guest Post from Tracie


Introducing…When You Are Near!


I’m excited about the new Brookstone Brides series and had so much fun researching for the various characters and locations. This is a story about a fictional Wild West show with all female performers. Prior to the rodeos we see today, the Wild West shows traveled throughout America and Europe to entertain people and give city dwellers a taste of what the American frontier was like. At least their version.


Buffalo Bill Cody was famous for his shows, which brought Native Americans and their culture into the world of people who might otherwise never have even seen an “Indian.” Pawnee Bill was another entertainer who sought to keep these shows alive.


For the fictional show in my novels, I wanted to focus on three female characters who became a part of the Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza for varying reasons. Lizzy Brookstone is the heroine in book one, When You Are Near, and as the daughter of one of the show’s owners, she has enjoyed a starring role as a trick rider.


For research I went to Pueblo, Colorado to the ranch of Karen Vold, a famous trick rider and rodeo star. Linda Scholtz, a famed trick rider, was teaching a clinic there along with Karen at the Red Top Ranch Trickriding School.


These are two remarkable Christian trick riders who have long worked to keep the sport alive. I spent three days getting to know them and what they do and learned so much. And just to prove that we weren’t all work and no play, I thought I’d share my attempt at trick riding. What I won’t do for research!


The series will have three books, as usual, and each book will focus on a different lady and her skills. Mary is a trick shooter like Annie Oakley, and Ella is a Roman rider who stands on the backs of two horses for her part in the act. It was so interesting learning about each of these types of performers, and I hope you’ll get a chance to read all three and enjoy the stories of the Brookstone Wild West Extravaganza.


Blog Stops


Among the Reads, March 26


The Power of Words, March 26


Christian Author, J.E. Grace, March 26


Inklings and notions, March 26


The Meanderings of a bookworm, March 27


Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, March 27


Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 27


Vicky Sluiter, March 27


Carpe Diem, March 28


The Avid Reader, March 28


Genesis 5020, March 28


The Lit Addict, March 29


Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 29


Back Porch Reads, March 29


Just the Write Escape, March 30


Splashes of Joy, March 30


Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 30


Emily Yager, March 31


Daysong Reflections, March 31


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 31


Life of Literature, April 1


EmpowerMoms, April 1


For the Love of Literature, April 1


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 2


Through the Fire Blogs, April 2


Stephanie’s Life of Determination, April 2


For Him and My Family, April 3


Remembrancy, April 3


Inspiration Clothesline, April 3


Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, April 4


Locks, Hooks and Books, April 4


Pause for Tales, April 4


Older & Smarter?, April 5


Stories By Gina, April 5


Book by Book, April 5


Bigreadersite, April 6


Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 6


Connect in Fiction, April 6


Godly Book Reviews, April 7


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 7


Texas Book-aholic, April 7


Blossoms and Blessings, April 8


janicesbookreviews, April 8


A Reader’s Brain, April 8


The Becca Files, April 8


Giveaway


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To celebrate her tour, Tracie is giving away a grand prize of When You Are Near, Tracie’s A $25 Barnes and Noble Gift card, and the three books in The Heart of Alaska series and three other winners will receive a copy of When You Are Near!!


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/dcdd/when-you-are-near-celebration-tour-giveaway

	


	



					
						


	

		
A Very Austen Valentine Book Tour & Giveaway by Celebrate Lit

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
Today’s Book Tour features “A Very Austen Valentine” by author Robin Helm and others.  This is Book 2 in the Austen Anthologies.  I haven’t read Book 1 yet but after reading this collection I definitely will.  You should, too.


My Thoughts


Are you a Jane Austen fan, too?  The polite language, customs, and manners are so quaint  and make me long for a time gone by.  This collection of novellas was a lovely serving of Austen era and even characters.  While reading I crossed paths with old friends from “Pride and Prejudice,” “Sense and Sensibility,” as well as “Persuasion.”  That was a delightful surprise.


This book is a collection of six novella written by “new to me” authors.  It was a charming sampling of works in a genre I favor.  There is definitely something for everyone within its covers.  I found romance, humor, and twist and turns in these stories.


Obviously with six different authors I will have different thoughts on all of the stories.  I had two favorites that captured my attention quickly.  One favorite was “I Dream of You” by author Robin Helm.  She did such an excellent job with Lizzy.  The entire concept is genius.  It is refreshing reading a love story about a married couple.  I did not want this one to end.  Definitely it is a 5 star tale!


The other four were enjoyable, also.  For the main part, the writing was very good, characters seemed realistic, and I was invested in each story.


This is a Valentine themed book, but since romance and love are timeless it can be enjoyed at anytime of the year.  I would recommend this to lovers of Jane Austen and Regency romance.  It affords a glimpse into six different authors’ styles all wrapped up in one book.  Overall this book gets a 4 out of 5 stars from me. Celebrate Lit provided me a copy but these are my own, honest opinions.


About the Book


A Very Austen Valentine Book Cover


Book: A Very Austen Valentine


Author: Robin Helm


Genre: Historical Romance (Regency), Religious and Inspirational


Release Date: December 29, 2018


Six beloved authors deliver romantic Valentine novellas set in Jane Austen’s Regency world. Robin Helm, Laura Hile, Wendi Sotis, and Barbara Cornthwaite, together with Susan Kaye and Mandy Cook, share variations of Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion, and Sense and Sensibility, featuring your favorite characters in sequels, adaptations, and spinoffs of Austen’s adored novels.


Experience uplifting romance, laugh-out-loud humor, and poignant regret as these authors deftly tug on your heartstrings this Valentine’s Day.


I Dream of You by Robin Helm


Newly-married Elizabeth Darcy has a plan: to charm her too-busy husband into desiring her company as much as he did when he was courting her. A series of romantic dreams gives her just the push she needs to put that plan into action.


Sir Walter Takes a Wife by Laura Hile


Faced with a lonely future and finding himself strapped for cash, Persuasion’s Sir Walter Elliot manfully decides to marry again. But his careful plans go sadly awry! A lighthearted Valentine mash-up featuring two of Jane Austen’s worst snobs.


My Forever Valentine by Wendi Sotis


Jane and Charles Bingley have married, even though Miss Elizabeth Bennet remains certain Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy gave his best effort to keep them apart. After Mr. Darcy refused to stand up with Bingley and did not attend the wedding, she despises the gentleman more than ever and finds his company intolerable. How will she endure her visit to Kent if Mr. Darcy turns up everywhere she goes?


Pretence and Prejudice by Barbara Cornthwaite


A chance encounter with a handsome stranger forces Elizabeth to resort to subterfuge in order to discover his true intentions.


My Valentine by Mandy H. Cook


Little Charlotte was always determined and independent, traits which served her well as she battled a serious childhood illness and later as she took on Polite Society. Will those traits now deprive her of true love? Or would her lifelong Valentine win her heart?


The Lovers’ Ruse by Susan Kaye


In this Persuasion alteration, Anne is so altered by Wentworth’s love in the summer of 1806, she refuses to give him up when both her godmother and father try to persuade her. “The Lovers’ Ruse”follows Frederick and Anne through their whirlwind courtship and their secret engagement. When Wentworth returns for his Annie girl, the cat comes out of the bag.


About the Author


robin helm


Robin Helm’s books reflect her love of music, as well as her fascination with the paranormal and science fiction.


Previously published works include The Guardian Trilogy: Guardian, SoulFire, andLegacy (a guardian angel protects a supernaturally gifted girl), the Yours by Design series: Accidentally Yours, Sincerely Yours, and Forever Yours (Fitzwilliam Darcy switches places in time with his descendant, Will Darcy), and Understanding Elizabeth (Regency sweet romance).


She contributed to A Very Austen Christmas: Austen Anthologies, Book 1, an anthology featuring like-minded authors, in 2017, and A Very Austen Valentine: Austen Anthologies, Book 2 which was released on December 29, 2018.


New releases for 2019 include More to Love, a standalone historical sweet romance dealing with body image; Lawfully Innocent, a historical U.S. Marshal romance book in the Lawkeepers series; Maestro, a historical sweet romance featuring a brilliant musician and his student; and A Very Austen Romance: Austen Anthologies, Book 3.


She lives in sunny South Carolina where she teaches piano and adores her one husband, two married daughters, and three grandchildren.


 


More from Robin


Do you love Historical romance, but avoid “those” covers like the plague?


Would you enjoy an anthology featuring six Valentine-themed novellas set in the Regency period written by Christian authors?


In A Very Austen Valentine, stories range from a young wife searching for a way to bring her marriage back to the way it was, to a laugh-out-loud courtship between Jane Austen’s worst snobs.


Misunderstandings, concealed identities, and romance abound.


There is even a sequel featuring the children of the Darcys and the Brandons.


Every reader will find something to love in this wonderful collection.


Blog Stops


Blossoms and Blessings, March 25


Christian Bookaholic, March 25


Blogging With Carol, March 26


Britt Reads Fiction, March 26


Reflections from My Bookshelves, March 27


For Him and My Family, March 27


Godly Book Reviews, March 28


Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 28


Emily Yager, March 29


Connect in Fiction, March 29


The Christian Fiction Girl, March 30


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 30


Moments, March 31


Mary Hake, March 31


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 1


Pause for Tales, April 1


Creating Romance, April 2


Book by Book, April 2


Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 3


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 3


Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 4


Texas Book-aholic, April 4


janicesbookreviews, April 5


A Reader’s Brain, April 5


Just the Write Escape, April 6


Inklings and notions, April 7


The Becca Files, April 7


Giveaway


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To celebrate her tour, Robin is giving away


Grand Prize: a $50 Amazon gift card

1st Place: An autographed paperback of A Very Austen Valentine: Austen Anthologies, Book 1

2nd Place: An autographed paperback of A Very Austen Christmas: Austen Anthologies, Book 2

3rd Place: A set of three ebooks – Reader’s Choice of any three of my books and

4th Place: a $5 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/ddfa/a-very-austen-valentine-celebration-tour-giveaway


 

	


	



					
						


	

		
An Unpresentable Glory Book Tour and Giveaway

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
Today’s blog is a stop on the “Unpresentable Glory” Book Tour by Celebrate Lit.  If you haven’t become acquainted with author Eleanor K. Gustafson, you are in for a treat.  She has a $25 Burpee Gardening gift card for one lucky reader, too!


My Thoughts


“An Unpresentable Glory” is a contemporary Christian novel.  Filled with mystery, suspense, and romance the 368 pages went by quickly as I read it nonstop.  My love for plants and flowers blossomed.  I enjoyed the garden and floral setting.


Author Gustafson has a delightful style of writing.  It is smooth as butter and glides without a bump or hitch.  Her use of humor and metaphors made me smile.  The characters were vividly described and I found them well rounded and relatable.  I felt like I knew Linda well.


It was easy to become invested in this story.  I was hooked from the very first page.  The faith element was easily identifiable.  This is a God glorifying book.  Life lessons are woven all throughout this offering.  Relenant, timely lessons for today were tackled.  Also, I even learned a thing or two.  All of those make for a wonderful reading experience.


This is a beautifully written book.  It is well planned, researched, organized, and executed.  Author Gustafson is an extremely gifted wordsmith.  Her book gently took my hand and took me inside its pages.  I felt the story!  I was there while reading it.  Only great authors can do that.


I highly recommend this book.  It is the perfect escape for contemporary fiction lovers.  A church readers group or any book club would relish discussions on this jewel.  I gladly rate it 5 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but all opinions are my own, honest ones.


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About the Book:


Cover


Book: An Unpresentable Glory


Author: Eleanor K. Gustafsonb


Genre: Christian, contemporary, literary fiction


Release Date: July, 2018


“I trusted you, and some day, you may know just how much you hold in your hands.”


Linda Jensen leads a relatively quiet life in Westchester County, New York, as the owner of a highly acclaimed garden. Inherited from her parents, the garden is her pride and joy. It is not so joyful finding a strange man sprawled near her delphiniums! The mysterious man is sick, unable to do anything more than drink water—and beg for secrecy. Ignoring all alarm bells, Linda sees to his needs, but her caring act takes on unexpected significance, and unpresentable glory.


Seeds of trust, and perhaps love, are planted in Linda’s garden haven. But as secrets are revealed and scandal hits the headlines, the act of caring for this man threatens to tarnish both of their reputations. Like weeds in Linda’s garden, circumstances threaten to choke out their fledgling relationship, and small moments prove to be the biggest influencers—on a national scale.


Click here to purchase your copy.


About the Author


Ellie GustafsonEllie grew up in Branchville NJ, in a county with more cows than people. She attended Wheaton College in Illinois as a music major, then married a pastor/college professor/tree farmer/organist and writer. Together, they have three children and eight grandchildren.


Music was Ellie’s first love until she tried on the cloak of writing and found it a comfortable fit. However, early writing attempts saw friends—and even her mother—advising her to stick to music as a career. She pushed manfully along, though, and An Unpresentable Glory is her sixth novel.


“God first touched me through story,” Ellie says, “and made the bigger Story come alive. I love Him passionately!”


More from Ellie


What’s An Unpresentable Glory about? Here’s Linda’s point of view: Linda Jensen, a noted gardener, finds a stranger sprawled near her delphiniums, obviously ill. She gets him into her house and puts him to bed, deciding that water is the only safe thing to give him. Water in, however, must come out. He is helpless; she must serve him; but in doing this unpresentable task, she feels the presence of angels. [See the book Preface for my personal experience with this.]


Jay’s point of view: Jay finds himself ill and helpless on the lawn of a wealthy but caring gardener. He can’t even reveal his real name. When he leaves at week’s end, he sees the relationship as hopeless because of who he is and enormous repercussions if the hidden week comes to light. Tragedy and disaster haunt him, but a dual set of mentors leads him through churning waters. Will he ever get back to the garden?


* * *


Linda’s sun tea was “mostly Darjeeling with lemon and a sprig of mint.” After reading her description, I tried it and found it tasty, indeed!


Blog Stops


Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 23


Pause for Tales, March 24


Godly Book Reviews, March 25


Creating Romance, March 26


Girls Living For God’s Glory, March 27


Inklings and notions, March 27


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 28


2014 an Beyond!, March 29


The Becca Files, March 29


Blogging With Carol, March 30


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 30


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 31


Texas Book-aholic, April 1


janicesbookreviews, April 2


Bigreadersite, April 3


Real World Bible Study, April 3


A Reader’s Brain, April 4


Little Homeschool on the Prairie, April 5


Giveaway


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To celebrate her tour, Ellie is giving away a grand prize of a $25 Butpee Flower 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/ddb4/an-unpresentable-glory-celebration-tour-giveway


 


 


 


 

	


	



					
						


	

		
Hannah Claire’s Wilderness Book Tour and Giveaway

				

			Posted on  by abbasprayerwarriorprincess		

			


	
	
			


	

		
You have found my stop on “Hannah Claire’s Wilderness” Celebrate Lit book tour.  Author Caryl McAdoo is generously giving away six prizes so read all the way to the end for entry instructions.  You might be a winner if you apply.


My Thoughts:


Author McAdoo is a natural storyteller.  It took me one paragraph, that’s right one, to become invested in this beautiful story.  I have read many of the author’s works but this one by far excels all of them.  It is the second book in her “The Revivalist Trilogy” but could easily be read as a stand alone.  I loved it and would definitely recommend it for many reasons.  It captivated me.  I opened it up and could not put it down.


The characters are realistic.  They are vividly described and so well rounded I forgot they were characters and deemed them friends.  I wanted to have tea and chat with them.  It was Little Adaolisa was adorable.  The author has transferred her knowledge and love for children onto paper effortlessly.


Not only has she shown her love for children, but the author’s love for Godis apparent in this novel also.  In her books she writes “Praying my story gives God glory” and she does. Using scripture, inspiration, and life lessons this book is an encouragement to readers.  It will help draw readers in closer to Abba and give them things to ponder.


Topics relevant today are packed into Hannah Claire’s Wilderness – depression, God’s guidance, danger, obedience, hope, love, hearing from God, His timing, parenthood, violence, spreading God’s Word.  Humor is sprinkled in to give readers relief from such heavy subject matter.


I absolutely loved the beginning of the book and how Adaolisa and Hannah Claire communicated.  This was so inspirational and faithfilled.  Bravo, Ms. McAdoo.  It is so refreshing to know a novel is Christian and not need a magnifying glass or to guess.


There was one thing I missed, a very minor one, and that is a Discussion Question Section.  This is a perfect book for a church reading group or even a group of friends.  I highly recommend this book.  It is a page-turning, engaging fiction book that will take you on the Mission field with David and Hannah Claire.  It earns a 5 out of 5 stars from me.  A copy was provided by 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: Hannah Claire’s Wilderness


Author: Caryl McAdoo


Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction


Hannah Claires wildernessRight after she marries in 1970, love carries Hannah Claire to Nigeria, following her husband David to the mission field—for only two years, she thinks. Miracle upon miracle brings five-year-old African orphan Adaolisa into the young wife’s life and she becomes a mother. Can the love for a child keep her where she doesn’t want to be? The children of wickedness threaten to make her a widow; they threaten everything, and danger abounds! Only by obedience can Hannah and her revivalist husband survive and prosper in a land torn by violence.


 


Click here to purchase your copy.


About the Author


Caryl McAdooCaryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory which is what she lives to do. Her award-winning, best-selling novels enjoy a lion’s share of 5-Star ratings from Christian readers around the world. With forty titles, it’s obvious she loves writing almost as much as singing the new songs the Lord gives her—listen to a few at YouTube. She and high school sweetheart Ron celebrated fifty years of marriage June 22, 2018 and share four children and eighteen grandsugars. The McAdoos live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas, waiting expectantly for God to open the next door.


Guest Post from Caryl


Have you ever thought you heard from God, and acted on that in obedience—oft at great sacrifice—only to doubt that you heard Him at all when things don’t go as you’d planned? Actually, everything almost goes just the opposite, and your world is turned upside down.


Did you really hear Him?


That’s what my heroine Hannah Claire faces, when a two-year stint looks like it’s turning into a lifetime commitment. Though I’ve never been abroad to the mission field, I’ve faced much the same thing as Hannah, believing I heard Him and then nothing happening as expected!


Personally, I’ve been waiting over thirty years, but have found great peace in that waiting and trusting God—knowing that He is on the throne and in control. I will never doubt that the vision He’s given, the call He’s placed on mine and Ron’s lives WILL come to pass, just as it did for Abraham.


Hannah doesn’t have to wait that long, but her experience takes her to the depths of fear and depression before she comes to know her Heavenly Father is altogether trustworthy. The Shepherd walks her through the valley of the shadow of death and makes her to lie down in green pastures. He stills the raging waters and leads her beside them.


Book three, King David’s Tabernacle, coming sometime in 2020, will bring the reward and give you glory bumps every step of the way as God makes Himself known in a mighty way, but first . . . there’s the refining. Gold is passed through the fire seven times to be purified.


Silver as well, until the smith can see his reflection. Followers of Christ are all being made into the image of God’s Beloved Son, and we can rest in the fact that He who began that good work in us at salvation will be faithful to complete it until His coming again.


I pray you will enjoy your journey through Hannah Claire’s Wilderness.


Blog Stops


The Becca Files, March 21


Inklings and notions, March 21


Through the Fire Blogs, March 22


Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 23


D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, March 24


Locks, Hooks and Books, March 24


Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 25


Stephanie’s Life of Determination, March 26


Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 27


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 28


Texas Book-aholic, March 29


janicesbookreviews, March 30


Bigreadersite, March 31


A Reader’s Brain, April 1


Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 2


Real World Bible Study, April 3


Giveaway


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To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away:


Grand Prize – $50 Gift Amazon Card


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


2nd Prize – Signed copy of Hannah Claire’s Wilderness


3rd Prize – eBook copy of Hannah Claire’s Wilderness


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


5th Prize $5 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/dcad/hannah-claire-s-wilderness-celebration-tour-giveaway