The Pursuit of Miss Parish Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

This is Book Two in the Christian historical Aprons and Veils Series by author Grace Hitchcock. It is a lovely book that caught my attention immediately. This is a sweet western romance that will delight readers. Even though it is the second book, it is easily read as a stand alone.

This is the story of Belle Parish. She arrives from Charleston to New Mexico to be a Mail Order Bride for Colt Lawson. After meeting him she gets a feeling that something is off. He, however, is determined to convinced Belle that he is a great guy and that it is okay to go ahead with the wedding.

Belle takes a job as a Harvey Girl. If you do not know about the Harvey Girls, this book will teach you so much. I loved learning about them in such an interesting, entertaining way. Timeless messages on faith, trust, love, joy, and peace abound in this beautiful book.

The author has crafted some wonderful characters. I loved her descriptive wording that made me feel like I was right there. There is so much going on in this book. Danger, romance, adventure, redemption. Expect a few twists and turns. It is an interesting, fast paced western. I gleaned so much from it. 

I highly recommend it. It would make a nice book club choice. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: The Pursuit of Miss Parish

Author: Grace Hitchcock

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: May 31, 2023

Love’s gentle promise becomes nothing more than a withered dream.

With dreams of love and a hope for belonging, shy Belle Parish leaves her position as a maid in Charleston to travel to New Mexico with her best friend to become mail-order brides. Colt Lawson’s letters hold great promise and while his devilishly handsome face matches his picture, something does not add up. Discovering his lie only moments before they wed, Belle flees the church and straight into the Castañeda Hotel Harvey House. Giving up the prospect on ever marrying, she dons her nun-like uniform and focuses on her role as a Harvey Girl waitress until a strong, former Texas Ranger rides into her life.

Colt Lawson didn’t want to send that letter to Belle Parish in the first place, but her first response had all but captured his heart. When he is left standing at the altar alone, he is left with two choices—either release his dream of a love marriage, or attempt to win her heart. Wooing her would be a lot easier if that Texas Ranger wasn’t back in town. Who wants a dusty rancher with a past when she could have a shining knight in a Stetson?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Grace Hitchcock is the award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives in the New Orleans area with her husband, Dakota, sons, and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com.

More from Grace

Questions from READERS for Grace Hitchcock

Q: As a mom, how/when do you find time to write?

Grace Hitchcock: I used to walk around the block to my favorite coffee shop in New Orleans, writing with a delicious latte and scone beside me, headphones in with the perfect soundtrack playing waiting for the muse. . . and now days, I write during Sofia the First episodes blaring in the background for my toddler while the baby sleeps and my Kindergartner is in half-day school.

On the days when I can’t get the word count down during those tiny moments, my husband takes the babies for an hour in the evenings and tells me to go write! When I’m on tight deadline with days left to go, the house usually isn’t the cleanest and Laundry Mountain, in all its splendor, may just fall on top of us. Sometimes while on deadline, I get the urge to pause and clean, but if I ignore the impulse long enough, the feeling generally passes. Once the book is in to my editor, it’s time to clean.

Q: What is your favorite source of inspiration for creating the characters in your stories?

Grace Hitchcock: For main characters, I use Names Through the Ages to figure out their names based on their background and once I know a character’s name, it’s as if the heroine/hero stroll into my writing room and I get to know their personality, the story closely following.

For the supporting characters, I have a need/plot point that they need to fill and I build their personality around that need. Not quite as exciting haha but they serve a purpose. But, I always remind myself to try to fill them out because they do not know they are not the main characters.

Q: When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

Grace Hitchcock: One of my earliest memories is writing stories in my little diary in my closet. (Remember the diaries with the locks on them that were super easy to pick, but still dreamy to have a book with a lock on it.)

I started taking my desire to write seriously when I was a senior in high school. I was homeschooled and my mom let me write a novel for my senior English project to test that theory if I wanted to write. It was so fun to write, I knew that’s what I wanted to do, so I got my Masters in Creative Writing and I’ve been typing away ever since 

Q: What is your writing process like?

Grace Hitchcock: I usually begin with a spark of an idea that I at once research to see if it would work with the eras I enjoy writing (Gilded Age and Regency England). From there, I do a deep dive into writing out a chapter by chapter plot, which generally takes about a week to ten days.

Once I have my plot down, I do about a week or two more of basic research and begin the first very, very rough draft that I usually finish at 50,000 words after 3 months of writing.

Then, I research any spots that needed improving in the first draft and go full editing mode, pausing throughout the book to research spots that need more description and historical accuracy, which is about two months and then, I do a third round of edits and research while doing a line edit, which takes a month.

By the time I get to the 6-month mark, I am more than ready to have a break haha and I send my 75,000/80,000 word novel off to my publisher/editor who does a content edit, sends it back to me for three weeks, another editor does a line edit, sends it back to me for three weeks, then another editor does a copy edit and sends it to galleys (where they format the book) and send it back to me to proof one last time for two weeks! Then, it goes to press at usually 75,000-100,000 depending on the novel. So long story short, 6 months to write and about 2 months to edit!

Q: Do you have any tips for aspiring authors? 

Grace Hitchcock: In this business, just about every author gets a rejection from a publisher . . . even by publishers who later accept them!

When I began sending out one of my first manuscripts, I thought it was pristine, but after about 15 rejections, I put it on the shelf and focused on a new manuscript with fresh eyes and new goals based on some of the industry professionals’ suggestions. Six months after I shelved that first manuscript, I went back and looked over it . . . the professionals were right. It wasn’t ready and it would require a lot more love (aka bleeding edits) before I attempted to send it out again. Sometimes, time is what you need to get a fresh perspective.

But it is also important to remember that when you get a rejection letter, they are not rejecting you. They are rejecting the work. And as much as you see it as a work of art, the publishers see it as a product. They are there to sell a product and if the product isn’t ready, it won’t sell well, so take heart and “hone your craft” and focus on any feedback you received that has merit.

That critique was very hard for me to hear haha but it helped push me to keep learning, attending writer conferences, and following my dreams. Over the years, I have had novels rejected by Barbour, Bethany, and Kregel, but I tried again and again and eventually signed with each publishing house! So keep it up! You can do it!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , June 16

Vicky Sluiter, June 16

Melissa’s Bookshelf, June 17

She Lives To Read, June 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 18

Texas Book-aholic, June 19

Alena Mentink, June 19

All-of-a-kind Mom, June 20

Bigreadersite, June 20

Connie’s History Classroom, June 21

Books You Can Feel Good About, June 21

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 22

Betti Mace, June 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 24

Karen Baney Reviews, June 24

Blogging With Carol, June 25

For Him and My Family, June 25

Labor Not in Vain, June 26

Mary Hake, June 26

Cover Lover Book Review, June 27

Holly’s Book Corner, June 27

Splashes of Joy, June 28

Pause for Tales, June 28

Jodie Wolfe -Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, June 29

Lights in a Dark World, June 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Grace is giving away the grand prize package of an autographed copy of The Finding of Miss Fairfield AND The Pursuit of Miss Parish with bookmarks and book magnets, and a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2658d/the-pursuit-of-miss-parish-celebration-tour-giveaway

Father’s Day Reflections and a Recipe

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Tomorrow is Father’s Day.  The history of its origin is rather vague.  In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge recommended that Father’s Day become a national holiday, but nothing was done.  Years later in 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson designated the third Sunday in June as the official day to celebrate Father’s Day. However, it wasn’t until 1972, during the Nixon administration, that Father’s Day was officially recognized as a national holiday.

 
I am one lucky girl to have had two amazing fathers. My dad, whom I had for forty years, was compassionate, intelligent, loving, faithful, generous, respected, and so much more than words could ever describe.  A giant in faith he was a true son of God.  Best of all, he came into our lives about a decade after my daddy was called home to be with the Lord.  God, our Heavenly Father, is so good and knows what we need, when we need it.  He put Dad in our lives to help heal that broken spot that was ripped open when Daddy died.  Dad was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle.  God used a bad situation for good.  I am forever grateful.
 
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IMG_2286 Sure there are times I still miss my Daddy.  He was in my life for a short twelve years. He, too, was a son of God, kind, compassionate, and giving. I have cherished memories of him.
 
I was blessed by both of my grandfathers, too.  My paternal grandfather, Granddaddy, and I were particularly close. I was the first born on that side, and yes, spoiled rotten.  My maternal grandfather, Pappaw, eleven grandchildren and loved each one of us. He always carried pieces of butterscotch candy or Juicy Fruit gum to give out. Today isn’t about tears and missing them.  It is about the good memories of the time we had together.  The promise of seeing them again in Heaven.  It is a time to be thankful.
 
So, I am.  Thankful for all of the men in my family.  For the grandfathers, fathers, hubby, uncles, son, son-in-law, brother, brothers-in-law, nephews, and cousins.  You are appreciated and loved even though you may not hear the words.  Happy Father’s Day!  I love you and am grateful you are in my life.  To the other patriarch in our family, Uncle Gale, thank you for your Christian leadership and your love.
If you think you are alone without a father this year like I am, you are so wrong. We have our Abba that created us. Don’t forget to spend time with our Heavenly Father today. He knows us better and loves us more than anyone else ever will. Reflect on all the blessings He has given to you and your family. He is waiting to welcome us home when our time here is finished. Tell Him how much you appreciate Him.
 
 
 
P.S. This fudge recipe was a favorite of Dad’s and my husband, Dennis. They both wanted me to scrape the pan and give them the little bits.
 
 

Fairest of Heart Book Review

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Fairest of Heart by the amazing wordsmith Karen Witemeyer is a Christian historical romance novel. I was immediately invested in the story and characters. This was a brilliant interpretation of the Snow White fairy tale.

This is the story of Penelope. She is a fabulous character, who is always cheerful and hard working. It is also the story of Titus. What a great hero! The characters are all so engaging in this lovely story, especially the seven drovers. I loved those guys.

One of my favorite things about this book is the beautiful message of faith and Bible verses. I want Christian novels to include those, and this one did. I highly recommend this book to everyone. It gets an 5 star rating from this reader. A copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Beauty has been nothing but a curse to Penelope Snow. When she becomes a personal maid for a famous actress whose troupe is leaving Chicago to tour the West, she hides her figure beneath shapeless dresses and keeps her head down. But she still manages to attract the wrong attention, leaving her prospects in tatters—and her jealous mistress plotting her demise.

After his brother lost his life over a woman, Texas ranger Titus Kingsley has learned to expect the worst from women and is rarely disappointed. So when a young woman found in suspicious circumstances takes up residence with the seven old drovers living at his grandfather’s ranch, Titus is determined to keep a close eye on her.

With a promotion hanging in the balance, Titus is assigned to investigate a robbery case tied to Penelope’s acting troupe. The evidence points to her guilt, but Titus’s heart divines a different truth—one that might just get Penelope killed.

An enchanting Western take on the classic Snow White fairy tale, Fairest of Heart will sweep you away from once upon a time to happily ever after.

About the Author

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers’ Favorite Christian Historical Author in 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and family board game player who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she’s on deadline. Learn more about Karen and her books at http://www.karenwitemeyer.com.

Her Only Wish Book Review

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Her Only Wish by best selling author Shelley Shepard Gray, is Book Two in her Seasons in Pinecraft series. This Christian Amish book is set in the Florida community of Pinecraft, which is very different from those in other states. Even though it is the second book in a series, it may easily be read and followed as a stand alone.

This is the story of Betsy Detweiler. She has been to Pinecraft, Florida on vacation and decides to go back. There is so much to do there. Betsy has a “life list” which is similar to what other people call a bucket list. Her list includes things she wants to learn while she is there, such as how to swim and golf.

The author has created realistic, believable characters and an engaging story. I was immediately invested in it. After reading this, I have a better idea of what the Pinecraft community is like. Now I want to go there and experience it for myself.

This is a lovely Amish book with timeless life and Christian lessons. It has a sweet romance. I highly recommend it to everyone. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by NetGalley but these are my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Shelley Shepard Gray is a NYT and USA Today bestselling author. She’s published over a hundred novels and has over a million books in print. She currently lives in northern Ohio and writes full time. 

Shelley lives just an hour from Holmes County, where many of her Amish-themed novels are set. She currently writes contemporary romance and Amish fiction for a variety of publishers. When not spending time with her family or writing, she can usually be found walking her two dachshunds on one of the many trails in the Cleveland area. 

She also bakes a lot, loves coconut cream pie, and will hardly ever pull weeds, mow the yard, or drive in the snow.

Shelley also spends a lot of time on line! 

Please visit her website, http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com to find out her latest news or to sign up for her newsletter. Shelley can also be found on FaceBook, Instagram @shelley.s.gray, or on Twitter @ShelleySGray.

Transhuman: Will We Obey God or Play God? CelebrateLit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Transhuman: Will We Obey God or Play God? is Book 2 in author Rena Groot’s Christian futuristic, apocalyptic The Narrow Path Trilogy. Transhuman begins where Manhunt ended, but there is enough backstory and flashbacks to allow readers to follow along even without reading the first book.

This is an end times novel that will grab your attention and refuse to release it. I was immediately captivated in this story taken from Revelation Chapters 5-9. This is the halfway point in the Tribulation.

Author Groot does a fabulous job with her take on End Times. Her novel is gripping, exciting, and a total page-turner. More than once, I was on the edge of my seat while reading this riveting tale.

Characters are believable and multilayered. If you read book one, you will recognize Rachel and Josh. I was immediately invested in them. The story flows smoothly even though there is a lot of action. Scripture is heavenly woven throughout this amazing story.

I highly recommend this book and series. It gives readers a different perspective on the last days while staying true to scripture. This would make an interesting television series or movie. It gets a five star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: Transhuman – Will We Obey God or Play God?

Author: Rena Groot

Genre: Apocalyptic Fiction

Release date: 2021

This work of apocalyptic fiction is based on reality to come. The lines have been purposely blurred between pure fact and pure fiction. It is a warning based on God’s Word. He has told us a time of unprecedented terror is about to come upon the earth. His wrath will be poured out on sinful and unrepentant humanity in a series of judgements. The intensity and severity of these judgements will be unparalleled in human history. The judgements will be on a global scale that will take place over a seven-year period.

The judgements are reserved for those who have chosen to reject Christ. Even in wrath God is displaying mercy. He wants the lost to be found. All who have rebelled against Him are given a chance to find Him. This is His last and final call to the sons and daughters of Adam. Sadly, many will harden their hearts and turn away from the most beautiful invitation ever to have been extended in all of human history. They will curse God and stay entrenched in their rebellious ways.

God does not hide this awful reality from us. He wants us to be wise and flee from the wrath to come. If we are already His He wants us to warn others—to point them to the narrow path that leads to life. TRANSHUMAN is based on my thoughts of what the world may look like at the halfway point in the Tribulation. The Rapture has already taken place. All who have been invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb are seated. Time will soon be no more. The curtains are opening on the world stage.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Hi. My name is Rena Groot. I have a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and a Masters of Religious Education from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary in Cochrane, Alberta. I have been a teacher in Canada and China, have published eight books, I have designed a digital course called Broken to Beautiful-Transformed By God’s Power, I have been a tour manager from the Rockies to the Pacific, have been a missionary to the ends of the Earth, a mom of four—and the most important part—I am a child of God.

More from Rena

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 1

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 2

Artistic Nobody, June 3 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, June 4

Guild Master, June 5 (Author Interview)

Scott’s Book Reviews, June 5

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 6

Beauty in the Binding, June 7 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 8

Simple Harvest Reads, June 9 (Author Interview)

annette_reads_daily, June 9

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 10

A Reader’s Brain, June 11 (Author Interview)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, June 12

For the Love of Literature, June 13 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 14

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/263ea/transhuman-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Smells of Summer Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Smells of Summer by author Mary A. Hake is book two in her brilliant Children’s Series, Smells of the Seasons. In this series, the author shows readers how a blind girl is able to experience the seasons using her other senses. This one focuses on Summer and its smells.

Using an array of vivid pictures and easy to understand prose, this book is certain to be a favorite of children. It has a beautiful message of acceptance and gives children a glimpse into the world of someone with visual impairments.

I highly recommend this enlightening book. It would be wonderful for a classroom, home, or library. Give it for any occasion. I rate it 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: The Smell of Summer

Author: Mary Ann Hake

Genre: Picture Book

Release date: May 15, 2023

Explore the smells of summer with April, a blind girl, and her menagerie of pets.

Visit the county fair, the seashore, Grandpa’s farm, and the zoo, and camp with April’s family in the woods—each place has its unique fragrances.

“As summer thoughts stir in my mind,

I wonder what new smells I’ll find.”

The back of the book contains activities using the sense of smell.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Mary Ann Hake, author of the Smells of the Seasons picture book series, has loved learning, reading, and writing for as long as she can remember. She has scribbled stories and poems since she first learned to write and has published hundreds of stories, articles, poems, puzzles, devotions, and more for both children and adults plus written hundreds of book reviews. She loved working in a bookstore and as a librarian and enjoyed reading to children at story times and conducting summer reading programs. She has also taught writing to children and at writers’ conferences. In addition to writing, she continues to work as a freelance editor. Visit her website, http://www.maryannhake.com, and sign up to receive monthly activities for children and updates on future books.

More from Mary Ann

My mother introduced me to books at a very young age. Mom read to me nearly every day—beginning with picture books then adding longer stories and poetry. I loved books and soon memorized the text of favorites so I could turn the pages and “read” them myself. (My own daughters did the same.) I could hardly wait until I went to school and learned to read so I could devour books on my own. In honor of my mom, The Smell of Summer’s release date is her birthday, May 15. I am her firstborn and her only summer baby. She always encouraged my writing.

My four-book Smells of the Seasons series are told in rhyme because that appeals to children. The Smell of Summer shares summer scenes from the life of April, a blind girl who uses her sense of smell to help her experience her world. The story includes elements that offer a fun companion text for connection to science including the senses, nature settings, animals, flowers, vegetable gardening, and other food. This is the second book in the series with April and her menagerie of pets.

Most people love summertime. This delightful picture book will stir up memories of summer experiences and offer some you may wish to enjoy this year. As the final page says:

I love the many summer smells.

So many stories each one tells.

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, June 2

Sylvan Musings, June 3

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 4

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 6

Lots of Helpers, June 7

Lily’s Book Reviews, June 8

Vicky Sluiter, June 9 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, June 10

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, June 11

Artistic Nobody, June 12 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, June 12

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 13

Guild Master, June 14 (Author Interview)

Walking Fruitfully, June 14

Blossoms and Blessings, June 15 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary Ann is giving away the grand prize package of a signed hardcover copy of The Smell of Summer and a $25 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/263ec/the-smell-of-summer-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wanda Brunstetter’s Amish Friends One-Pan Wonder Cookbook

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

I love cookbooks and will read them like a novel. Going through the sections and looking at pictures of the dishes is exciting as I imagine serving something to family and friends. This newest cookbook offering from beloved Amish author Wanda Brunstetter is fast becoming one of my favorites. There is so much in this beautiful, helpful book.

Throughout the book are over 200 recipes, inspirational quotes, advice, and vivid pictures. There are several indexes with recipe contributors, recipes by each section, and the extremely helpful index of main ingredients. This book is well organized and inviting. It has a spiral binding that allows it to open and lay flat for easy reading.

One of the many things that I love about this useful cookbook is that the ingredients used are ones most cooks have on hand. Some of the recipes will spark a memory of something that was made years ago by a family member. Those are ones that I am eager to try.

I highly recommend this lovely Amish cookbook. I gave two for Mother’s Day gifts and the recipients were delighted. These make great gifts for showers, birthdays, Christmas, or “just because”. If you are a cookbook collector, you will not want to miss having this one. It has many “must try” recipes. This wonderful cookbook gets a 5 star rating from me.

Guess How Much God Loves You, CelebrateLit Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Guess How Much God Loves You by author Karen Ferguson is a lovely Christian Children’s Book with pictures. I thought this was a very nice book. Children will be drawn to the colorful images and learn from the easy to understand text.

This is the story of inquisitive first grader, Lucy Lu, and her grandfather, Papa Joe. Lucy has questions about God, and her grandfather brilliantly answers them using the Bible. The story is interesting and will easily engage children. It is written simply so that children may easily understand. The author has included creativity to allow further interest in her book.

This is a wonderful way to introduce and reinforce God’s love and Creation for all children.  At the very end of the book is a page about Jesus. Material on Who He is and how He wants to be your friend will help children understand Him even more. Discussion questions are included.

I highly recommend this delightful adventurous picture book. It has quaint illustrations and an important message. Children will discover that God loves them unconditionally and made each one of them for a special purpose. This is a book for home, church, and gift-giving. It gets a 5 star rating from this reader. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest thoughts.

About the Book

Book: Guess How Much God Loves You

Author: Karen Ferguson

Genre: Children’s book (picture book)

Release date: July 19, 2022

Take a journey through the Bible with Lucy Lu, a colorful, creatively curious first grader who is starting to have serious questions about God.

Questions like: How old is He? Does He sleep? What does He do all day? And the biggest one of all – does God reallylove me?

After one very hard day, feeling like she doesn’t matter, Lucy sits with her Papa Joe who has promised to answer these questions and more, launching them onto an exciting journey to discover God’s never changing, never failing, never ending love.

What follows in this book series is a wild adventure through the Bible, where Lucy and her Papa find themselves in the middle of it all, on each page of the powerful story of God’s love and faithfulness for all people, throughout all history.

This first book is all about God’s Creation 🌎

Guess How Much God Loves You is a vibrant, fun, and biblically based book that is sure to captivate young readers as it teaches them important Bible truths that will help them build a firm foundation in God and His Good Character – all through the lens of His unconditional love.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Karen Ferguson is a freelance writer and small business owner with a background in K-8 education. A grateful wife, mom, and grandmom she loves words and the Word of God and is passionate about writing stories that grab and hold young readers’ attention, teaching them all about God’s unchangeable truths, and His unchanging love for them.

Her first children’s book, Guess How Much God Loves You, was released in July 2022 through Ambassador International and is available wherever books are sold.

More from Karen

Are you looking for God honoring books that will captivate your child’s imagination, teach them faith-building biblical concepts, and help them grow in their reading skills?

Then I have the perfect book for your young reader…Guess How Much God Loves You

This beautifully illustrated book introduces young readers to the Creation Account, through the eyes of seven year old Lucy Lu, a creatively curious first grader who is starting to have serious questions about God.

Questions like…

How old is He? Does He sleep? What does He do all day? And the biggest one of all – does God really love me?

After one very hard day, feeling like she doesn’t matter, Lucy sits with her Papa Joe who has promised to answer these questions and more, launching them onto an exciting journey through the Bible to discover God’s never changing, never failing, never ending love.

I wrote this book because I want every child to know their life matters. To know that the God of all things created them in His image, on purpose and for a good purpose.

Guess How Much God Loves You will have seven books in the series with each one covering an important Bible account critical to building an understanding of God’s character and His love for all people, including your reader!

This first book is about the Creation Account as recorded in the Bible. Future books will cover the Garden of Eden, Noah’s Ark, the Exodus and more.

I want children to understand these are not just stories about fictional characters, but historical accounts about real people they can relate to. People who experienced God’s power, love, and faithfulness.

My greatest desire is to see this next generation trust the Bible and enjoy reading it. More than ever, young readers need to hear the message that they are valuable, loved unconditionally by the One who created them and gave them the best gift of all, His Son Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 18

Lots of Helpers, May 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 19 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 19

Cover Lover Book Review, May 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 21

Texas Book-aholic, May 22

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, May 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 23

Pause for Tales, May 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 25

Bliss, Books & Jewels, May 25

Vicky Sluiter, May 26

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 27

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 28

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, May 29

Mary Hake, May 29

Labor Not in Vain, May 30

For Him and My Family, May 31

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of a $30 Amazon gift card, one signed hardcover, one eBook, and one digital activity workbook that will help to reinforce the learning concepts in a fun way!!

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/26071/guess-how-much-god-loves-you-celebration-tour-giveaway

Heart of Gold Celebrate Lit Book Tour & Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Review:

Heart of Gold by author Lacy Williams is a Christian Historical Romance novel. It is part of the Wild Wyoming Hearts Series. I enjoyed it and found it to be a quick read.

This is the story of Ida. She comes from a large, loving family. It is also the tale of Tom Seymour, whose family is just the opposite. They meet during hazardous circumstances, but are drawn to each other.

The author has written a sweet, inviting story with characters that come to life on the pages. The children were an especially bright part of the story with their honesty and innocence. I felt like I was watching a movie or television show play out in my mind. The underlying themes of God’s love, guidance, and redemption shone brightly.

I highly recommend this sweet book. It is a nice, engaging read that will whisk you away to a big family Christmas from years past. It gets a 4 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Heart of Gold

Author: Lacy Williams

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: May 11, 2023

They survived a harrowing near-death experience. Can a poignant family Christmas bring them together?

Ida needs a quiet Christmas at home to rest and find her footing again. But her boisterous family is anything but quiet and things only get worse when her U.S. Marshal brother brings home a prisoner for the holiday—the same outlaw that saved her life.

Tom Seymour discombobulates her. He’s arrogant and unrepentant. But when she’s forced to nurse his injuries, she realizes that his persona is all a facade. The man underneath is wounded and kind and in need of redemption.

But Tom must make a choice between his old life and the chance to make a new one with Ida. Can she trust the man he is becoming or will he betray her?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lacy Williams wishes her writing career was more like what you see in Hallmark movies: dreamy brainstorming from a French chateau or a few minutes at the computer in a million-dollar New York City penthouse. In reality, she’s up before the sun, putting words on the page before her kids wake up for the day. Those early-morning and late-night writing sessions add up, and Lacy has published sixty books in a decade, first with a big five publisher and then as an indie author. When she needs to refill the well, you can find Lacy birdwatching, gardening, biking with the kiddos, or walking the dog. Find tons of bonus scenes and reader extras by becoming a VIP reader at http://www.lacywilliams.net/vip .

More from Lacy

Do you like “stranded together” stories as much as I do? Being stuck in an airport, a snowstorm, a wedding weekend… Yes, please, to all of the above.

But has it ever happened to you in real life?

Twenty-plus years ago, when I was a freshman in college and before I started dating my handsome hubby, I dated this other guy.

We met at a mixer during the first few days of the semester and hit it off pretty quickly. Classes started, we saw each other a few times socially.

He was pledging a fraternity and invited me to go with him to a co-ed overnight trip.

And then when we got there, he sort of just… disappeared. For hours. I finally found him and then followed him around… until I finally got the hint. Sometime in the days between when he’d invited me to the float trip, and when we arrived, his feelings changed.

It was SOOO awkward for the rest of the night and then the next day. Not the place and time I wanted to be ghosted. And it was worse because I’d ridden down with a mutual friend and had no way to get the two-plus hours home until the next day.

It wasn’t a romantic or fun time. More like a disaster.

A disaster is exactly what my heroine Ida thinks about being stuck with ex-bad guy Tom for Christmas. They get snowed in with her family (and her deputy older brother) and at first it is awkward.

And then… it’s not awkward anymore.

By the time the snow melts, Ida has caught feelings for Tom.

You can read this story free in KU or win a copy through this giveaway! Ida and Tom’s love story is called Heart of Gold.

-Lacy

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 16

Alena Mentink, May 16

Texas Book-aholic, May 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 19

Connie’s History Classroom, May 20

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 21

Christina’s Corner, May 21

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 22

For Him and My Family, May 23

Pause for Tales, May 24

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, May 25 (Author Interview)

Kristina Hall, May 25

Cover Lover Book Review, May 26

Vicky Sluiter, May 27

Splashes of Joy, May 28

Sheila’s Reading Corner, May 29

Mary Hake, May 29

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2606e/heart-of-gold-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wait for Me, Waters of Time Series by Jody Hedlund

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Wait for Me is Book 4 in author extraordinaire Jody Hedlund’s Waters of Time Christian Time-Travel Series. This series is nothing short of captivating. If it is not made into a television or movie series, it will be a grave injustice. This may be read as a stand alone, but trust me, you will want to read the entire series. It is so fabulous. You might as well read them in order.

With her skillful pen, author Hedlund has presented a plausible solution to the time travel conundrum. It is the best I have heard yet and a Christian related one. The book is set in contemporary times and Middle Ages. Obviously a lot of research has been done to include so many details about the time period. I gleaned so much just from reading this series.

The characters are relatable and believable as well as expertly crafted. They were not perfect and had issues, just like we all do. Dawson was a perfect hero. He smoldered yet showed restraint and was a gentleman. Tall, strong, and handsome with morals. Very swoon worthy.

Conversations sounded realistic and were some of my favorite parts of the book. The romance was clean yet so heartfelt but seemed a little rushed due to the storyline. Both characters had immediate chemistry, and sparks flew off of the pages as I read.

I adore the beautiful way that the author writes. Her prose completely whisks me away to another time and place where I become absorbed in the story. Life and Christian messages are always included. Her books, especially this one, are such page-turners that I devour each in one sitting.

I highly recommend this as well as the entire series. It is nothing short of exceptional. I am hoping there will be more to this series. Everyone will enjoy this page turning, intriguing, masterpiece. I give it a 5 star review. A copy was provided but these are my honest words.