Love Flies by Author Julia David

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Finding a new author whose book I absolutely loved makes me just giddy.  It gives me hope that I will always have another great story sometime down the road.  Today, let me introduce you to a captivating book from a new to me author that shall be on my favorite list.

My Thoughts

“Love Flies” by author Julia David is a two hundred sixty two page Christian historical fiction.  It took me a few chapters to become invested but then it happened.  I was all in.  Author Julia David knows how to write a compelling tale.  She is a talented wordsmith.

Her writing style is nice and the words glide off of the page. The story is well organized and researched.  Attention to detail made it easy to imagine I was in 1867.  The characters were well defined.  I was drawn to many of them.  Their emotions transferred to me and I felt fear, joy, happiness, and sadness.   My emotions were raw at some points.

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The Christian message is not diluted or hidden.  Bravo author David!  This is not a preachy  book, but a nice Christian one.  There are timely life lessons to be learned from Patience and Reed.  Trusting God, forgiving others, priorities, family, and love are among some of the topics touched upon in this page turning novel.

This is Book Two in the Lennhurst Asylum Series but I was not at a disadvantage.  It can easily be read as a stand alone.  I highly recommend it.  It earned a 5 out of 5 stars from me.  Grab a few friends and start a reading group with this one.  You will want to chat about it.

A copy was provided by the author but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, honest words.

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From the Back of the Book

Calculating Reed Chapman, didn’t factor an unstable young woman from Lennhurst Asylum inhabiting his beloved land.

In 1867, bitter from the civil war, lawyer Reed Chapman is easily distracted, yet determined to have his land back. How did his simple plan to restore his family’s inheritance, leave him driving away from Lennhurst Asylum, elbow to elbow with a beautiful patient in his charge? An unstable, madcap young woman who believes she is the heir to his land.

Patience Stevens spins with the adventure of leaving Lennhurst to find her childhood trees, lake and land. Confident to face the dark unknowns that took place there, she dreams of gardens and woodland homes for all her winged friends. Fortifying herself to face the horrors one by one, the revelations of her past collides with a new struggle in the form of handsome Reed Chapman. He seems overly concerned with her wellbeing and suddenly her heart is taken with his attention.

Can a gullible young woman from an insane asylum trust the ways of the heart? Is his declaration for her hand hasty or genuine? Her simple list of dreams seems so close she can almost touch them.
Is Reed Chapman to be her tender, passionate husband or her adversary? Can her child-like faith and hope survive this haunted wilderness without him?

About the Author

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Julia David is an avid journal writer, published romance author, serial DIY’er and certified life coach. Addicted to Hallmark movies and baking, she believes it’s crucial to have some predictable things in life. Her tag line ‘escape to an era where true love prevails’ was from her own reason for reading stacks of books.
Married and mother to five, she also ministers to pregnant and parenting teens.
Find more at juliadwrites.com

Castle on the Rise Book Tour & Giveaway by Celebrate Lit

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Welcome to “Castle on the Rise” Book Tour and Giveaway from Celebrate Lit.  I am glad you have joined us!  You will learn about this Christian Historical Fiction as well as its author, Kristy Cambron.  She has included footage from her research trip to the Emerald Isle which is a delightful treat.  At the bottom is where you enter the giveaway.

My Thoughts

Ireland is a beautiful land and author Kristy Cambron has chosen well using it as the setting for her Christian novel, Castle on the Rise.  No matter if you love  historical or contemporary fiction, this exquisitively penned tale will thrill you. This book cover three centuries with stories alternating at each chapter.  Transitions are smooth and each one delivered me effortlessly into a different time period allowing me to “live” there for a while.

I really enjoyed the author’s style of writing.  It is descriptive without being burdensome.  Places, people, and things were easy to imagine making the book play out like a movie in my mind.  The characters are realistic and well defined.  We became fast friends as I quickly got invested in their stories.  Within a few chapters I was captivated.   My contemporary friend is Laine.  She has a few issues that she wants to pretend do not hurt.  From 1916 comes my friend Issy, a skilled photographer.  She joins the Irish Citizens Army to help.  My 1798 friend is Maeve.  She struggles with keeping safe from rebels and smugglers.

The Castle has secrets that tie these three women together in the end through twists and turns.  I did learn some Irish history, and I love learning while leisure reading.  For me, the Christian content was too diluted and subtle.  I like to know I am reading a Christian fiction and not search for the meanings.

Castle on the Rise is Book Two, but I had no trouble reading it.  It can be read as a stand alone.  I would recommend this to readers of historical romance.  It gets a 4 out of 5 star rating 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.

About the Book

Title: Castle on the Risecastle on rise

Author: Kristy Cambron

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: February 5, 2019

Publisher: HarperCollins

A storied castle. A band of rebels. A nation chasing a centuries-old dream of freedom. And three women who rise above it all . . .

When Laine Forrester travels overseas to attend her best friend’s vineyard wedding, she expects to find the bride on the brink of a fairy tale life. But after a series of unforeseen setbacks, it seems the storybook lives they’d imagined are suddenly ripping apart.

With hopes of resurrecting a happy ending, Laine agrees to accompany the newlyweds to the groom’s home in Ireland—never expecting she’d be the one drawn in by its wide-open moors, backroads bordering the Irish Sea, and a mysterious castle that dares to keep its secrets hidden.

From the storied streets of Dublin to the shores of the Emerald Isle, Laine is drawn in to the land and its rich history. The castle ruins whisper stories of Issy—a photojournalist battling through the 1916 Easter Rising, and Maeve—the castle’s lady of legend, fighting for survival through the 1798 rebellion that started it all.

Spanning more than two centuries, Castle on the Rise unites the legacy of three women who must risk mending the broken places within—for life, love, and the belief that even through the depths of our pain, a masterpiece of a story can emerge.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Kristy Cambron is an award-winning author of Christian fiction, including her Kristy Cambronbestselling debut The Butterfly and the Violin, and an author of Bible studies, including the Verse Mapping Series. She is a passionate storyteller who travels to speak at ministry events across the country, encouraging women to experience a deeper life in the Word through verse mapping. Her work has been named to Publishers Weekly Religion & Spirituality TOP 10, Library Journal’s Best Books, RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards, and received 2015 & 2017 INSPY Award nominations.

Kristy holds a degree in Art History/Research Writing, and lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons, and can probably be bribed with a coconut mocha latte and a good read.

To stay connected, visit www.kristycambron.com.

Kristy’s Research Trip to Ireland

 

Blog Stops

Back Porch Reads, February 19

Maureen’s Musings, February 19

The Power of Words, February 19

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 19

Reflections From My Bookshelves, February 20

Livin’ Lit, February 20

Texas Book-aholic, February 20

Fiction Aficionado, February 21

Gensis 5020, February 21

Blogging With Carol, February 21

Bigreadersite, February 21

Just the Write Escape, February 22

As He Leads is Joy, February 22

Just Your Average reviews, February 22

Inspired by fiction, February 23

Connect in Fiction, February 23

Carpe Diem, February 23

Bibliophile Reviews, February 24

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, February 24

Lis Loves Reading, February 24

A Baker’s Perspective, February 25

Emily Yager, February 25

Moments, February 25

All-of-a-kind Mom, February 26

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 26

Girls in White Dresses, February 26

Mary Hake, February 26

Simple Harvest Reads, February 27 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

The Christian Fiction Girl, February 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 27

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, February 28

Remembrancy, February 28

Through the Fire Blogs, February 28

Inklings and Notions, February 28

Redeemed Hope Dweller, March 1

My Devotional Thoughts, March 1

Seasons of Opportunities, March 1

Pause for Tales, March 1

Ashley’s Bookshelf, March 2

The Becca Files, March 2

Book by Book, March 2

Living Life Free in Christ, March 2

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

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, March 3

All 4 and About Books, March 3

Southern Gal Loves to Read, March 4

Reader’s Cozy Corner, March 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 4

Janices book reviews, March 4

Giveaway

castle giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kristy is giving away a grand prize of one finished copy each of The Lost Castle (book 1) and Castle on the Rise (book 2)!!

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/d9d0/castle-on-the-rise-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides Collection Book Tour & Giveaway

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Glad to have you at my stop on the Celebrate Lit Book Tour for “The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides Collection.”  I hope you enjoy learning about this Christian Historical Romance Fiction collection of seven tales.  There is a generous giveaway to enter at the end.

My Thoughts

I love historical fiction, especially romance, so this book was a nice choice.  Lighthouses are intriguing to me.  They remind me of an old Christian hymn, too.  I love the thought of leading someone home using a light.  Sound familiar?

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Most of the authors were ones I had read, but there were a few that were new to me.  I enjoyed all of the stories, but of course some were better than others.  The book starts in 1883 and each novella is a few years later until the last one is set in 1911.

Each author has done an exemplary job of researching and planning her story.  I enjoyed learning about the different people, times, and places, even immigrants.  It is obvious a lot of work was done in the organizing of this compilation of stories.

The faith message is woven throughout the book.  It teaches life lessons that are still relevant today.   Faith, trust, and hope as well as forgiveness are a few examples of lessons from this book.

I learned things, too, duties of a Lighthouse Keeper for one thing.  Some things were common sense that I just never considered.  Lightkeepers work night shift, sleeping in the day and being vigilant at night to keep others safe.

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This is a lovely Christian fiction collection.  Each author compliments the next one.  The tales are encouraging and delightful.  I would not hesitate to recommend this to lovers of historical romance.  It gets a 4 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 words.

About the Book51ZdzdL75lL._SY346_

Title: The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides

Author: Kathy Rouser

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: November 1, 2018

Publisher: Barbour

Lighthouses have long been the symbol of salvation, warning sailors away from dangerous rocks and shallow waters.
Along the Great Lakes, America’s inland seas, lighthouses played a vital role in the growth of the nation. They shepherded settlers traveling by water to places that had no roads. These beacons of light required constant tending even in remote and often dangerous places. Brave men and women battled the elements and loneliness to keep the lights shining. Their sacrifice kept goods and immigrants moving. Seven romances set between 1883 and 1911 bring hope to these lonely keepers and love to weary hearts.

The Last Memory by Kathleen Rouser
1899—Mackinac Point Lighthouse
Natalie Brooks loses her past to amnesia, and Cal Waterson, the lighthouse keeper who rescues her, didn’t bargain on risking his heart—when her past might change everything.

 

Click here to purchase your copy.

 

About the AuthorKathleen Rouser headshot.larger file

Kathleen Rouser is the multi-published author of the 2017 Bookvana Award winner, Rumors and Promises, her first novel about the people of fictional Stone Creek, Michigan, and its sequel, Secrets and Wishes. She is a longtime member in good standing of American Christian Fiction Writers. She longs to create characters who resonate with readers who realize their need for the touch God’s grace and hope in their everyday lives. A former homeschool instructor, mild-mannered dental assistant, and current Community Bible Study kids’ teacher, she lives in Michigan with her hero and husband of thirty-some years, and the sassy tail-less cat who found a home in their empty nest. Connect with Kathleen on her website at kathleenrouser.com, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/kathleenerouser/, and on Twitter @KathleenRouser.

Guest Post from Kathy

When author Pegg Thomas approached me about writing a novella for The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides book proposal I couldn’t refuse the chance. After all, I am a lifelong resident of Michigan, which is the Great Lakes State! Plus, I had a favorite lighthouse in mind, though I briefly considered others.

For over 20 years we have ventured “up north” for a week-long summer vacation on Lake Michigan, most of them spent in the same cottage. Since the cottage is almost 20 miles west of Mackinaw City, I’ve made the annual pilgrimage to the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse since they reopened with exhibits in 2004. Part of the first floor has since been restored to the middle-class furnishings of 1910 when George Marshall and his family resided there. Two generations of Marshalls manned the lighthouse and George Marshall’s brother, Charles, was at one time the assistant lighthouse keeper.

There is also an area of the lighthouse where they display maps, photographs and other information, chronicling the history of the lighthouse built on the Straits of Mackinac in 1892. Fresnel lenses, like those used in the tower, and interactive displays are also included. Did you know for several years, the fourth-order Fresnel lens flashed a red light? I’d always pictured a yellow light! A tour guide, dressed in period clothing, such as a U.S. Lighthouse Service uniform, will take you up the tall, winding metal staircase to enjoy the view.

My many visits, whether they’ve included the long climb to the tower or not, have intrigued me. I’d often thought that someday I would like to write a fictional story about this lighthouse. Built with Cream City brick, in a Norman architectural style, the building reminds me of a castle. Perhaps that’s why I chose to have the lighthouse keeper hero, Cal Waterson, rescue Natalie Brooks, a lone shipwreck survivor. She is the proverbial damsel in distress. Yet, despite her amnesia she finds a new strength in her faith to face an unknown future and in a sense rescues Cal and his daughter.

Returning to the lighthouse last year, I did climb to the tower to examine the view my characters might have had. Of course, I had to imagine what it would have been like without the Mackinac Bridge, which has joined our upper and lower peninsulas since 1957. It’s a spectacular view, where you can also see Mackinac Island, home of the famous Grand Hotel, which was already there in 1899, when my story takes place.

Not only do lighthouses spark so many ideas of history and romance, they are so symbolic— as guiding lights—and beacons of hope to lead through treacherous waters, much like our Savior, Jesus Christ, is the true Light who leads us to the Father. Indeed, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse played a strategic part in guiding ships through the dangers of the straits. I look forward to visiting this beautiful historic landmark again and hope my readers will be drawn into an intriguing visit to the lighthouse through my story, The Last Memory.

Blog Stops

Among the Reads, February 21

The Power of Words, February 21

Godly Book Reviews, February 22

Simple Harvest Reads, February 22 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Bibliophile Reviews, February 23

For the Love of Literature, February 23

Just the Write Escape, February 24

Carla Loves To Read, February 24

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 25

Book by Book, February 25

Jennifer Sienes: Where Crisis and Christ Collide, February 26

EmpowerMoms, February 26

Back Porch Reads, February 27

Through the Fire Blogs, February 27

Blossoms and Blessings, February 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 28

Mary Hake, February 28

Christian Author, J.E. Grace, March 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 1

Connie’s History Classroom, March 2

Blogging With Carol, March 2

Texas Book-aholic, March 3

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, March 3

KarenSueHadley, March 4

Janices book reviews, March 4

Carpe Diem, March 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 5

A Baker’s Perspective, March 6

Bigreadersite, March 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathy is giving away a grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card, a signed copy of The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides Collection, a sterling silver charm of the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, and a souvenir pictorial book of some of the Great Lakes lighthouse!!

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/db9a/the-great-lakes-lighthouse-brides-collection-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

 

The Way of the Warrior: An Ancient Path to Inner Peace by Erwin Raphael McManus

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

About the Book

  • Print Length: 238 pages
  • Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1601429568
  • Publisher: WaterBrook (February 26, 2019)
  • Publication Date: February 26, 2019
  • Sold by: Random House LLC

Best-selling author, pastor, futurist, and cultural thought leader believes that to experience and establish peace, we must first confront the battles that rage within.

McManus shows that encountering peace does not occur by accident, but rather by artful intention. Warrior is a call to decisiveness, self-examination, and the pursuit of spiritual wholeness. Through the ancient biblical practices of humility, focus, ownership, clarity, strength, and vulnerability, he guides readers to a deeper understanding of their inner workings and provides the guidance they need to establish peace and tranquility in their homes, neighborhoods, communities, and even the world! In the style of a battle-wizened teacher, McManus delivers wisdom, instills passion, and provides the sacred movements needed to become the warrior you were meant to be.

My Thoughts

The title drew my attention to this book.  The Way of the Warrior:  An Ancient Path to Inner Peace sounded like a book I needed to read.  I like the way the book started out stating there is something wrong with the world. Yes, I totally agree.  We need to get together soon and change things.
This is the first book I have read by Author McManus.  His style of writing is smooth and eloquent.  It flows without a hitch and is easy to understand.   The pace was slow but necessary for this type of book.  Readers need time to ponder and reflect.
Author McManus writes about being a warrior and his ways. Warriors can be competitive but still be humble. A warrior can be great and yet a servant.  He knows what feeds his soul.  The statements are prose which I wanted to write on sticky notes and put on my mirrors for inspiration.  They are very encouraging.
However, there were many things that just didn’t sit right with me.  “The Warrior is one with all things.” is one example of those statements.  In my opinion, that sounds rather New Age.  There were others that did not align with my beliefs, also.
It takes some inspiration from samurai warriors and other places.  Scripture and faith are sprinkled throughout the book, but there is no mention of  how to have a relationship with Jesus, our Savior.  Nor was there mention of getting our peace (that passes understanding) from Him.
I am not sure what I expected but this book was a disappointment to me.  I wanted more Christian inspiration and wisdom.   More practical advice on how to accomplish the result instead of what a Warrior was.
The author is a talented writer.  This book is just not for me.  Men will like it more than women and relate to the warrior references.   I would recommend reading it with a watchful eye on the scripture.  I rated it 3 out of 5.
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About the Author

Erwin Raphael McManus is the founder of MOSAIC, a church movement started in the heart of Hollywood with campuses across Los Angeles, Orange County, and Mexico City, and a global community that spans around the world. He is the author of several previous books. He and his wife live in Los Angeles.

American Omens by Travis Thrasher

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Have you ever read a book that made you think this really could happen?  It challenges your way of thinking?  American Omens, The Coming Fight for Faith, is exactly like that.  This 352 page thriller made me think what might be in the future if things do not change.

This is the first book I have read by author Travis Thrasher.  His style of writing kept me on the edge of my seat and turning the pages.  The story played out like a movie before my eyes.  It was easy to imagine the chaos, drama, conflict and characters.

Set in the future this imaginative, exciting novel had me on the edge of my seat as I turned the pages.  Technology was much more advanced (anyone want a self making bed?!) but Christianity was something that could get one killed.  Are we far from that now?

The characters, both primary and secondary, were well defined.  I felt like I knew each one.  Cheyenne and I became friends.  Her emotions transferred to me.  I was anxious, afraid, determined, and felt part of her adventure.

There was plenty of dialogue and it was penned smoothly.  The conversations seemed real and not just thrown in.  They were not ackward but realistic.

The author has intricately woven characters, plots, and twists into his well planned thought provoking tale.  It took me a while to read this because it is very suspenseful and packs a punch.  Sometimes I needed to take a break or soak in what I had read, but then I needed to get back reading to know what was happening.

This is no piece of fluff.  It is heavy reading and I  kept saying “what if this really happens in America?” The way things seem to be going, this isn’t so far fetched.  I was tense while reading this, even scared at some point.  Thrasher is a gifted author to do that.

I definitely recommend this thrilling, hard hitting book.  Fans of Christian contemporary, prophecy, action, intrigue, and end times will love this.  I cannot express how good this is because it is so plausible.  Hopefully it will be a call to action for our Nation to turn back to God before things do become this bad.

My rating is 5 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by the publisher but I was under no obligation to write a review.

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About the Book

Paperback, 352 pages
Published February 12th 2019 by Multnomah Books
ISBN 0735291780 (ISBN13: 9780735291782)
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In this taut thriller that imagines a near-future America following the decline of the Religious Right, where the Christ-followers who have anticipated a rising intolerance for their beliefs for decades find out they’re right after all.

In the US in 2038, a secret society is imposing its agenda on outspoken Christian leaders, killing when necessary. Corporate regulations restrict religious expressions and policies. A recent convert, Hutchence, uses creative and guerilla-like techniques to spread the Gospel of Jesus. This enigmatic man enlists a rag-tag group of individuals to help him proclaim a warning to the rest of the country: God is sending his judgment on our nation, and his first act will be to destroy Chicago. One recruit is a young and talented computer analyst who specializes in mastering algorithms for corporate and political use, and who is on the run from the company she works for, while trying to discover the truth about her father’s mysterious disappearance. Another is a conspiracy-theory-junkie & survivalist who has discovered proof of assault on people of the Christian faith. And a widower with three girls is recruited by this mysterious Hutchence to help lead a return to God in America.

About the Author

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Bestselling author Travis Thrasher has written more than fifty books and worked in the publishing industry for more than twenty years. He has penned fiction in a variety of genres, and his inspirational stories include collaborations with filmmakers, musicians, athletes, and pastors. Travis lives with his wife and three daughters in Grand Rapids, Michigan. http://www.travisthrasher.com

The Seamstress Book Tour & Giveaway by Celebrate Lit

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to my stop on Celebrate Lit’s Book Tour for author Allison Pittman’s “The Seamstress”.  I am glad you joined us.  Today’s tour is such a treat.  Read the generous giveaway that you have a chance to win.  It’s at the very bottom.  Are you ready to get started?  Me, too!

My thoughts

Author Allison Pittman has taken a minor character from Charles Dickens’ book, “A Tale of Two Cities” and given her a tale all her own. The character now has a name, Renee, a stronger voice, and emotions that will leap off of the pages of this book and straight into your heart.  The three other main characters, Laurette, Gagnon, and Marcel all come to life with the skilled stroke of the author’s pen.

For years I have been a fan of the gifted wordsmith Pittman.  Her writing style is engaging and always draws me in.  It was the same with this book.  This book was well researched, organized, and well planned.  At first I found it a little difficult but after a couple of chapters, it flowed flawlessly.  The characters complimented each other with their positive and negative attitudes.  They were well defined and described.  My heart ached for them and I secretly hoped the author had changed Dickens’ ending, too.

Life issues of despair, hope, faith, love, redemption, treachery, war, kindness, lies, and morality are intricately woven throughout this exemplary novel.  At times it was hard to read, and yet at other times it was even harder to but down.  I was totally captivated.  My mind had no problem imagining the scenes that played out on the pages.

Even though I have read other fiction about this time period, this book taught me more than other books about the people, turmoil, surroundings, and era.  It is essential that I learn something from a novel for me to really enjoy it.  The second thing I need is a Christian message if it is classified as a Christian fiction book.  Bravo on both points for “The Seamstress.”

This is no light, fluffy read.  It portrays real life during the French Revolution and that can be brutal.  This book has stuck with me long after finishing it.  It was thought provoking and beautifully written.  I find it hard to describe such a masterpiece.

Definitely I recommend this gem of a novel.  If you are a fan of Dickens, the classics, French Revolution, or history you will swoon over this novel.  It earned a five out of five stars from me.

A copy was provided buy I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, personal thoughts.

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About the Book

The seamstress cover

Title: The Seamstress

Author: Allison Pittman

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release date: February 5, 2019

Publisher: Tyndale

A beautifully crafted story breathes life into the cameo character from the classic novel A Tale of Two Cities.

France, 1788
It is the best of times . . .

On a tranquil farm nestled in the French countryside, two orphaned cousins—Renée and Laurette—have been raised under the caring guardianship of young Émile Gagnon, the last of a once-prosperous family. No longer starving girls, Laurette and Renée now spend days tending Gagnon’s sheep, and nights in their cozy loft, whispering secrets and dreams in this time of waning innocence and peace.

It is the worst of times . . .

Paris groans with a restlessness that can no longer be contained within its city streets. Hunger and hatred fuel her people. Violence seeps into the ornate halls of Versailles. Even Gagnon’s table in the quiet village of Mouton Blanc bears witness to the rumbles of rebellion, where Marcel Moreau embodies its voice and heart.

It is the story that has never been told.

In one night, the best and worst of fate collide. A chance encounter with a fashionable woman will bring Renée’s sewing skills to light and secure a place in the court of Queen Marie Antoinette. An act of reckless passion will throw Laurette into the arms of the increasingly militant Marcel. And Gagnon, steadfast in his faith in God and country, can only watch as those he loves march straight into the heart of the revolution.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

allison PittmanAllison Pittman is the author of more than a dozen critically acclaimed novels and a three-time Christy finalist—twice for her Sister Wife series and once for All for a Story from her take on the Roaring Twenties. She lives in San Antonio, Texas, blissfully sharing an empty nest with her husband, Mike. Connect with her on Facebook (Allison Pittman Author), Twitter (@allisonkpittman) or her website, allisonkpittman.com.

 

Guest Post from Allison

My dream of being an author began by “finishing” other author’s works, fleshing out the stories of neglected characters. When I read the final books in the Little House series, I was far more interested in Cap Garland than I was in Almonzo Wilder, and I imagined all kinds of stories in which he was the hero.

This, The Seamstress, is one of those stories that came to me in a single burst of thought. I was teaching my sophomore English class, discussing through the final scenes in A Tale of Two Cities, when the little seamstress in those final pages reached out to me. She is a nameless character, seemingly more symbolic than anything. Dickens, however, gives her an entire backstory in a single phrase: I have a cousin who lives in the country. How will she ever know what became of me? I remember pausing right then and there in front of my students and saying, “Now, there’s the story I want to write.”

Now, years later, I have.

While every word of every Charles Dickens novel is a master class in writing, what he gave to me for The Seamstress is the kind of stuff that brings life and breath to fiction. I have to convey the fact that any character on my pages—no matter how much story space he or she is allotted—has a life between them. Every man was once a child; every woman a vulnerable young girl.

So, Dickens gave me the bones of the story. A seamstress. A cousin in the country. A country ripped apart; family torn from family. I did my very best to put flesh on those bones, but no writer can ever bring the life and breath. Only a reader can do that.

Blog Stops

Fiction Aficionado, February 9

The Lit Addict, February 9

The Power of Words, February 9

Jennifer Sienes: Where Crisis & Christ Collide, February 10

Lis Loves Reading, February 10

Maureen’s Musings, February 10

Carpe Diem, February 11

A Baker’s Perspective, February 11

All-of-a-kind Mom, February 12

Emily Yager, February 12

Mary Hake, February 12

Stories By Gina, February 13

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, February 13

The Christian Fiction Girl, February 13

Inspired by fiction, February 14

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 14

Remembrancy, February 14

Through the Fire Blogs, February 15

Seasonsofopportunities, February 15

Inspiration Clothesline, February 15

Books, Books, and More Books, February 16

Inklings and Notions, February 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 16

Bibliophile Reviews, February 17

Texas Book-aholic, February 17

Margaret Kazmierczak, February 18

A Reader’s Brain, February 18

By The Book, February 18

Multifarious, February 19

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 19

Pause for Tales, February 19

Bigreadersite, February 20

Simple Harvest Reads, February 20

Janices book reviews, February 20

For the Love of Books, February 21

Book by Book, February 21

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, February 21

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 22

To Everything A Season, February 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 22

 

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Allison is giving away a grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card, a hardcover copy of The Seamstress, and this copy of A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens!!

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/db0e/the-seamstress-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

 

 

 

Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe Book Tour & Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to my stop on Celebrate Lit’s tour for “Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe”.  Today’s stop includes my review, information about the book and author, a guest post from Carla Laureano, the author, a listing of every tour stop, and information on the author’s giveaway.  Don’t miss it!  Let’s get started with my thoughts on this book.

My Review

“Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe” was a scrumptious read!  This contemporary Christian fiction was the first book I have read by author Carla Laureano, and I was thrilled to find a new author.  It is Book Two in the author’s series.  I was able to follow along fine so it cam be read as a stand alone.  However, I wish I had read Book One first.

Author Laureano has a very nice style of writing.  The story was well imagined, written, and researched.  I love reading about cooking and baking.  The romance was excellent.  I learned things about the food industry.  You know I love it when a book teaches me something.  Plus, it is highly evident this is a Christian book.  Characters mention trusting God, blessings and signs from a Him, and faith.

Her characters are relatable and realistic.  It was easy to imagine each one of them.  Melody Johansson is the main character and so likable.  She actually reminded me very much of someone I know.  I immediately became invested in her life.

It took very few pages to become captivated by this delightful novel.  I laughed, teared up, and felt the characters’ emotions.  Bravo to the author for such skilled writing.  There were times my breath caught for fear of what might happen.  I knew how I wanted the book to end, but I didn’t know if it would.

This is a great book but not for younger readers.  The author mentions some adult things such as sex before marriage, drinking wine, using the word hell, and a couple of other minor offenses.  Please keep in mind this is my opinion only.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.  It is a great getaway for lovers of contemporary fiction, foodies, and romance books.  I am looking forward to getting Book One.  Do yourself a favor, read it first.  Book two is so good you will want to read book one, too.  I rate this a 5 out of 5 stars.

A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit.  No review was required.  These are my own, honest thoughts.

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About the Book

Title: Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe

Author: Carla Laureano

Genre: Christian Romance

Release date: February 5, 2019

Publisher: Tyndale

Baker and pastry chef Melody Johansson has always believed in finding the positive in every situation, but seven years after she moved to Denver, she can’t deny that she’s stuck in a rut. One relationship after another has ended in disaster, and her classical French training is being wasted on her night job in a mediocre chain bakery. Then the charming and handsome private pilot Justin Keller lands on the doorstep of her workplace in a snowstorm, and Melody feels like it’s a sign that her luck is finally turning around.

Justin is intrigued by the lively bohemian baker, but the last thing he’s looking for is a relationship. His own romantic failures have proven that the demands of his job are incompatible with meaningful connections, and he’s already pledged his life savings to a new business venture across the country—an island air charter in Florida with his sister and brother-in-law.

Against their better judgment, Melody and Justin find themselves drawn together by their unconventional career choices and shared love of adventure. But when an unexpected windfall provides Melody with the chance to open her dream bakery-café in Denver with her best friend, chef Rachel Bishop, she’s faced with an impossible choice: stay and put down roots with the people and place she’s come to call home . . . or give it all up for the man she loves.

About the Author

Carla LaureanoCarla Laureano is the RITA® Award-winning author of contemporary inspirational romance and Celtic fantasy (as C.E. Laureano). A graduate of Pepperdine University, she worked as a sales and marketing executive for nearly a decade before leaving corporate life behind to write fiction full-time. She currently lives in Denver with her husband and two sons, where she writes during the day and cooks things at night.

Guest Post from Carla

“Confessions of An Erstwhile Baker”

Like most females, baking is encoded somewhere deep down in my DNA. Call it nature or call it nurture, but at the earliest age, I figured out that the cute boy in my English class would talk to me if it involved chocolate chip cookies. Got my heart broken or had a friend betray me? I grabbed the mixing bowl and went for the brownies (even better if they’re served à la mode.) My friend was having a birthday? I made a cake drowned in pounds of buttercream.

I quickly graduated from the boxed mixes to the real thing when I got married and had a kitchen large enough to roll out dough. I would comb magazines for the best recipes and spend my weekends trying them out. I quickly became known for bringing beautifully iced Christmas cookies and delicious homemade cakes to work.

Then my husband and I moved our young family from Los Angeles to Denver, a relocation that was about 1000 miles northeast and 5000 feet up. Suddenly, every recipe I’d perfected in the previous eight years failed. Cookies burned to crisps, cakes fell, and don’t get me started on candy making. Gradually, I adapted my recipes (my beloved never-fail Toll House recipe took eight tries to get right) and even became an avid artisan bread-baker.

Then disaster. Or at least, what a baker would consider a disaster. After developing chronic health problems, I discovered that among other things, I was sensitive to gluten. The horror! In order to heal, I turned to the paleo diet, which eliminates all grains (there goes most gluten free recipes) and all processed sugars (there goes everything else). I’ve tried baking paleo-style, and while I can now make cakes that even my gluten-fiend family enjoy, it’s just not the same.

So what’s a once-obsessive baker do when she can’t eat her creations? She bakes for other people and goes on faith that they actually taste good… considering she can’t taste them herself.

It struck me that there was a spiritual lesson in that, and an obvious tie to Brunch at Bittersweet Café, which deals in large part with Melody’s faith journey. There are times when we have no idea if things are working out the way they’re supposed to, in which case we just have to trust the “recipe” and the input of friends and family who love us. Sometimes our instincts tell us when we’re off track, and sometimes we need that outside nudge from our “taste-testers” to put us back on course.

In any case, what Melody and I have in common is that we both bake to show our love for the people around us. And the process of baking my favorites, even knowing that I can’t enjoy them myself, can still be a selfless way to show people they’re important to me.

Fortunately, macarons, which happen to be made with almond flour, are still on the menu.

Blog Stops

Quiet Quilter, February 12

Among the Reads, February 12

Lighthouse Academy, February 12

By The Book, February 12

The Power of Words, February 13

As He Leads is Joy, February 13

Cultivating Us, February 13

Blossoms and Blessings, February 13

Fiction Aficionado, February 14

The Lit Addict, February 14

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, February 14

This Chattanooga Mommy Saves, February 14

All-of-a-kind Mom, February 15

Just the Write Escape, February 15

100 Pages per Hour, February 15

Splashes of Joy, February 15

Bibliophile Reviews, February 16

Texas Book-aholic, February 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 16

C Jane Read, February 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 17

Moments, February 17

Back Porch Reads, February 17

Cordially Barbara, February 18

Genesis 5020, February 18

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

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 18

Livin’ Lit, February 19

Kat’s Corner Books, February 19

Life with the Tribe, February 19

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, February 19

Through the Fire Blogs, February 20

Remembrancy, February 20

Vicky Sluiter, February 20

Living Life Free in Christ, February 20

2014 and Beyond!, February 21

Daysong Reflections, February 21

Inklings and Notions, February 21

Pause for Tales, February 21

Cafinated Reads, February 22

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 22

two points of interest, February 22

Ashley’s Bookshelf, February 22

My Devotional Thoughts, February 23

Two Girls and a Book, February 23

The Christian Fiction Girl, February 23

For the love of books, February 23

God is Love, February 24

Book by Book, February 24

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, February 24

Janices book reviews, February 24

Lukewarm Tea, February 25

Carpe Diem, February 25

A Baker’s Perspective, February 25

Bigreadersite, February 25

 

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carla is giving away a grand prize package of a macron baking mat, a macron book, and a paperback copy of Brunch at Bittersweet Café!!

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/db0f/brunch-at-bittersweet-cafe-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Alamo Bride by author Kathleen Y’Barbo is Book Seven in the Christian historical romance fiction series Daughters of the Mayflower.  Each book in this lovely series is tied together by heritage but may be read as a stand alone.

The first thing of notice is the beautiful cover.  It vividly says Texas and 1800’s.  If I chose books simply by cover, this one would make the cut.  It is a 256 page paperback published by Barbour Books.

For me, it was a bit of a slow read at the beginning.  It took me about a third of the book to become invested and then it morphed into a page turned.  The story has been well researched.  I learned some things about the time period and area that I did not know.  Texas was a rugged, untamed land in 1836 as were the people.

The author does a wonderful job weaving her Christian message throughout this book.  Characters mention trusting God and turning to Him.   The message of faith is clear in this book.  I did not have to search for it.  This is also a book about family.  It is refreshing to read a Christian fiction and know it is one.  While the inspiration is clear, the book is not preachy or overbearing.

The author has written well rounded characters that are relatable and vividly described. They jumped off of the pages and were easy to imagine.  Ellis, the heroine, is sassy and became someone I wanted to know.  I became invested in her story, and then I did not want to put the book down.

There were twists, turns, surprises, romance, spying, intrigue, action, and history.  Yes, that is a lot packed into one paperback book.  I enjoyed it and definitely recommend it.  Anyone that enjoys history, romance, or Texas will be thrilled to find this offering from talented author Y’Barbo.  With the fighting I would not recommend it to young readers.  It earned a 4 out of 5 stars from me.

A copy was provided by Barbour but no review was required.  These are my own, honest thoughts.

About the Book

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Will Ellis Lose All at the Alamo?
Ellis Dumont finds a man in New Orleans Grey unconscious on Dumont property in 1836. As his fevers rage, the man mutters strange things about treasures and war. Either Claiborne Gentry has lost his mind or he’s a spy for the American president—or worse, for the Mexican enemy that threatens their very lives. With the men of her family away, Ellis must stand courageous and decide who she can trust. Will she put her selfish wants ahead of the future of the republic or travel with Clay to Mission San Jose to help end the war?

Join the adventure as the Daughters of the Mayflower series continues with The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo.

More in the Daughters of the Mayflower series:
The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1620 Atlantic Ocean (February 2018)
The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1725 New Orleans (April 2018)
The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep – set 1760 during the French and Indian War (June 2018)
The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1774 Philadelphia (August 2018)​
The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1794 on the Wilderness Road (October 2018)
The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall – set 1814 Baltimore (December 2018)
The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1836 Texas (February 2019)

About the Author

2B712767-6AA3-44E1-919F-FFC70C81A061Bestselling author Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee of more than eighty novels with almost two million copies in print in the US and abroad.

A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she has been nominated for a Career Achievement Award as well a Reader’s Choice Award and is the winner of the Inspirational Romance of the Year by Romantic Times magazine.

The Amish Candy Maker Book Tour & Giveaway by Celebrate Lit

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Hello!  Welcome to my stop on the tour.  I am very excited about this one.  You are in for a treat with this Amish book by author Laura V. Hilton and today’s tour.  In here you will read my review, information on the book and author, a recipe from the book, get a listing of all tour stops, and have a chance to enter the giveaway at the end.  Let’s get started!

My thoughts

In a few words, The Amish Candy Maker is fantastic!  Author Laura V. Hilton has outdone herself with this novel.  It is the second in her “The Amish of Mackinac County” series, but can be read as a stand alone.  I had not read the first one yet and found myself wishing I had because this one is so good.

This is a contemporary Amish tale of Agnes Zook, the Amish Candy Maker.  It also is the story of Isaac Mast, uncle to three three young children needing his help.  Circumstances throw Agnes and Isaac together and sparks begin to fly.  Bishop Nehemiah is always close by diligently watching.

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This story has been well planned, organized, and researched.  The characters are delightful from children to grandparents.  Mixing Pennsylvania Deutsch and English made the Amish dialogue seem realistic.  The author wrote the words in such a way that they were defined in the next sentence so readers are able to learn as they read.

It took a few, well very few, pages to become invested in this story.  I loved both main characters, Agnes and Isaac.  They became fast friends of mine.  Author Hilton knows how to write a great romance.  Wow, just wow!  It is one you want to discuss with your girlfriends.

Life lessons and scripture are woven heavily throughout this story.  There is no doubt it is a Christian fiction book.  Forgiveness of others and self, judging, gossiping, and respect are all touched on.  Each one a relevant topic.  Trusting God and prayer is discussed, too.  The only thing I did not agree with in the book, and it is a personal belief, is that it is okay to get mad and yell at God.  Certainly He knows our thoughts and feelings, but I think honor and respect for Him demands we treat Him better.

I definitely recommend this page turning, captivating Amish romance.  There are twists, adventure, danger, humor, and even candy recipes at the end.  It gets 5 out of 5 stars from me.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was not required to write a review. These are my own, honest thoughts.

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About the Book

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Title: The Amish Candy Maker

Author: Laura V. Hilton

Genre: Amish Christian Fiction

Release date: February 5, 2019

Publisher: WhitakerHouse

Agnes Zook finds herself on her own in a small Amish community in Mackinac County after a tragedy kills her family. Most of the Amish call her “off in den Kopf” (strange) since she’s starting her own business and forging her own way in the community instead of relying on the bishop to take care of her. Since she’s viewed as non-submissive and too-forward for an Amish woman, she’s not courted by young men in the area.
Isaac Mast is on the verge of leaving the Amish church. He’s become a sought-after auctioneer and has a thriving business, but he feels confined by the strict rules. When his brother is severely injured in a wild fire, Isaac receives a letter from his sister-in-law, begging him to come to Mackinac County to help out while his brother is hospitalized. Isaac agrees but is unsure how to manage their young children when he has weekend auctions he’s expected to attend.
Agnes may be the answer to a prayer. Sparks fly when she and Isaac meet. But could their differences help them form a deeper connection to their faith…and each other?

 

About the Author

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Laura Hilton is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and is a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with more than a thousand reviews published on the web. Her first series with Whitaker was The Amish of Seymour, comprising Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (2012 Laurel Award winner, first place in the Amish Genre Clash), and Promised to Another; and her second was The Amish of Webster County, comprising Healing Love, Awakened Love, and Surrendered Love. Her next series was The Amish of Jamesport, featuring The Post Card, Snow Globe, and The Birdhouse. Her latest books include The Amish Firefighter, The Amish Wanderer, and Love By the Numbers. Laura and her husband, Steve, live in Arkansas with their five children, whom Laura homeschools.

Guest Post from Laura

RECIPE FOR FUDGE À LA AGNES ZOOK

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge

Courtesy of Laura V. Hilton

1 bag (12 ounces) milk chocolate chips

1 bag (10 ounces) peanut butter chips

2 cans sweetened condensed milk, divided

6 tablespoons butter, divided

20 to 30 miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or six regular-size ones broken into four or five pieces each

For the chocolate layer: Line a greased 8-by-11.5-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a double boiler or metal bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, combine milk chocolate chips, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and 4 tablespoons butter. Stir until melted and smooth.

Pour into prepared baking dish and allow to cool to room temperature, then move to the refrigerator while preparing next layer.

For the peanut butter layer: In a double boiler or metal bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, combine peanut butter chips, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and 2 tablespoons butter. Stir until melted and smooth.

Pour on to the milk chocolate fudge layer and press pieces of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into the surface. If desired, group candy pieces in a grid-like fashion for easier cutting later.

Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight or until set.

Remove from refrigerator, lift out of the pan by the edges of the parchment paper, and cut into squares, with roughly one miniature peanut butter cup or piece of a cup per square.

Store in the refrigerator.

Blog Stops

Christian Author, J. E. Grace, February 5

My Devotional Thoughts, February 5

Carla Loves To Read, February 5

Among the Reads, February 6

Girl’s In White Dresses, February 6

Britt Reads Fiction, February 6

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 7

The Avid Reader, February 7

Random Thoughts From a Bookworm, February 7

Emily Yager, February 8

Quiet quilter, February 8

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, February 8

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 9

Maureen’s Musings, February 9

Bibliophile Reviews, February 10

Vicky Sluiter, February 10

Through the Fire Blogs, February 11

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 11

Daysong Reflections, February 11

Texas Book-aholic, February 12

Janices book reviews, February 12

Carpe Diem, February 13

A Baker’s Perspective, February 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 14

SusanLovesBooks, February 14

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, February 14

Blossoms and Blessings, February 15

Stephanie’s Life of Perseverance, February 15

Inspiration Clothesline, February 15

Inklings and Notions, February 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 16

Pause for Tales, February 16

Have A Wonderful Day, February 17

For the Love of Books, February 17

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, February 17

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, February 18

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 18

Bigreadersite, February 18

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Laura is giving away a grand prize of a large and small spatula set and a $10 Starbucks 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/d9a6/the-amish-candy-maker-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

 

Bailey, The Camp Club Girls Collection, by Linda Carlblom

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today I take a break from adulting and go back a few (quite a few) years to discuss a book I just finished that is aimed toward preteen and early teenage girls.  This book was a 4-in-1 Mystery Collection of some of Bailey’s books.  It is 386 pages so each tale is about 100 pages.

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Did I enjoy these four mysteries?  Absolutely.  If I did I can imagine how much a preteen girl would.  The young ladies in these books are diverse and have good Christian morals. Their characters are well defined making it easy to imagine and relate to each one.

The writing is very nice.  It is smooth and easy to follow.  The story flows and is interesting.  Girls will find it easy to become invested in the lives of their new friends.

Each book has a mystery to solve from a different state in our Country.  There is information provided about the area that readers might not previously know.  Learning something new from a book is great!  While the book isn’t preachy, it isn’t one you need to be concerned will lead your child or grand down a wrong path.

Girls will relate to situations, characters, and even locales in this delightful series.  They will want to solve the mysteries along with the characters.  I know that I did.

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It would be a wonderful book to start an early teen reader group.  Even a mother/grandmother reading and discussing it with their girl would open doors to many timely topics.  Unfortunately there are no discussion questions in the book.

I highly recommend it.  Grab a couple of copies and girls to start a young ladies reading group.  Plant the seeds for the love of reading and books now.  They will flourish in a garden with others.  I gave this series a 5 out of 5 stars.  If only these books had been around when I was younger!

A copy was provided by the publisher but I was not required to write a review.  These are my own, honest words.

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About the book:

GET A CLUE WITH THE CAMP CLUB GIRLS!
Join Bailey and the Camp Club Girls as they embark on a series of clue-filled adventures and crack the case in this entertaining and action-packed 4-in-1 mystery collection.

What’s the meaning of the mysterious messages beneath shaggy sheep coats at the Curly Q ranch?  The Camp Club Girls are determined to uncover the clues as they investigate a strange string of events. Will the girls discover the whereabouts of eccentric millionaire Marshall Gonzalez?

Why are wild elk running amok in Estes Park?  During a stay at the historic Stanley Hotel, Bailey and Kate encounter out-of-control stampedes that put the townsfolk and tourists in danger. Will the Camp Club Girls uncover the reason behind the unusual elk behavior before someone gets hurt?

Are the rumors surrounding a valuable turquoise mine true? When Bailey and Elizabeth travel to a Native American village in New Mexico to help out a distant cousin and her children in their pottery shop during the busy tourist season, mysterious rumors begin to stir. The Camp Club Girls have their suspicions about rightful ownership of the mine, but will they be able to prove it?

Who’s responsible for the peril at Mermaid Park?  When Bailey and Sydney are invited to spend part of the summer with Bailey’s grandmother in Florida, both girls are fascinated by the local attraction—Mermaid Park. When curious and frightening events begin to take place, will the Camp Club Girls solve the mystery and save the park before time runs out?

About the Author

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Linda McQuinn Carlblom is a Christian children’s writer and speaker who has loved kids ever since she was one. She has the uncanny knack of remembering how she felt as a child, which allows her to write with humor and empathy for her readers. Whether writing fiction or nonfiction, she writes with straightforward honesty that kids relate to. Her faith permeates everything she writes without being preachy or judgmental. If she’s not writing for kids, she loves writing to those who impact them most, their parents and teachers. After God, her top three loves are her family, reading, and cheesecake.
Learn more about Linda and her books at her website: http://www.lindacarlblom.com
An avid social media fan, she’d love to have you follow her.
Learn more about Linda and her books at her website: http://www.lindacarlblom.com
An avid social media fan, she’d love to have you follow her.
Facebook – Linda McQuinn Carlblom, Author
Twitter – LindaMcQuinnCarlblom@LindaLCarlblom
Pinterest – Linda Carlblom
LinkedIn – Linda Carlblom
Follow her blogs: Life with a Smile – http://www.lindacarlblom.com/blog/
Parenting With a Smile – http://lindamcquinncarlblom.blogspot.com/
We’re Doing Life Together – http://weredoinglifetogether.wordpress.com/
Christian Children’s Authors – http://christianchildrensauthors.com/