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Monday, October 30, 2023

Cold Pursuit

 


Ex-FBI profiler River Ryland still suffers from PTSD after a case went horribly wrong. Needing a fresh start, she moves to St. Louis to be near her ailing mother and opens a private investigation firm with her friend and former FBI partner, Tony St. Clair. They're soon approached by a grieving mother who wants them to find out what happened to her teenaged son, who disappeared four years ago. River knows there's almost no hope the boy is still alive, but his mother needs closure, and River and Tony need a case, no matter how cold it might be.

But as they follow the boy's trail, which gets more complicated at every turn, they find themselves in the path of a murderer determined to punish anyone who gets in his way. As River and Tony race to stop him before he kills again, an even more dangerous threat emerges, stirring up the past that haunts River and plotting an end to her future.

My thoughts: I have read and enjoyed just about every book that Nancy Mehl has written, so I was looking forward to reading this new series by her. It did not disappoint! I love that the main characters are former FBI profiles (her past two series have been about FBI profilers, and have been excellent!) that have started their own PI firm after a traumatic experience with a serial killer. Which, that will be an ongoing thread in the series.
My heart went out to the mom who is looking for closure about her missing son. As the pieces start to come together, River and Tony find out that being Private Investigators might not be any safer than their previous jobs. 
I received this book from Bethany House. This is my honest review.

Purchase a copy here! This post contains affiliate links.

Voice of the Ancient

 


"A stunning coming-of-age tale."--MESU ANDREWS, Christy Award-winning author of Isaiah's Daughter

As the eldest son of a Levite and a Philistine, Avidan is torn between his duty to his family legacy and the desire for something more. After an enemy attack strikes close to home, he takes the opportunity to fight with his cousins for the newly crowned King Saul. But when one of the cousins goes missing during the battle, Avidan refuses to leave him behind.

Keziah is the daughter of one of the most powerful clan chiefs in the territory of Manasseh. On the brink of a forced marriage to a loathsome man decades older than her, she has no choice but to run, hoping to find sanctuary with her mother's family.

United during their journeys and battling to survive the dangers that surround them, Avidan and Keziah make a pact to travel together. As challenges pile up, they must not only rely on each other to stay alive but also learn to trust the true and eternal King of Israel to guide their every step.

My thoughts: We just went through the story of Saul and David in the adult Sunday School class at my church, so it was still fresh in my mind when I picked this book. I enjoyed the rich history that Connilynn Cossette has in her stories, and especially in this one. I can only imagine what it would have been like to live in the days of Samuel and Saul. So much tumult and change as the people decide they want a king to lead them. I look forward to seeing where this series goes! 

I received this book from Bethany House. This is my honest review. 

Purchase a copy here! This post contains affiliate links.

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater

 

It promises beauty but steals life instead. Will the ghosts of Barlowe Theater entomb them all?

Barlowe Theater stole the life of Greta Mercy's eldest brother during its construction. Now in 1915, the completed theater appears every bit as deadly. When Greta's younger brother goes missing after breaking into the building, Greta engages the assistance of a local police officer to help her unveil the already ghostly secrets of the theater. But when help comes from an unlikely source, Greta decides that to save her family she must uncover the evil that haunts the theater and put its threat to rest.

Decades later, Kit Boyd's best friend vanishes during a ghost walk at the Barlowe Theater, and old stories of mysterious disappearances and ghoulish happenings are revived. Then television ghost-hunting host and skeptic Evan Fisher joins Kit in the quest to identify the truth behind the theater's history. Kit reluctantly agrees to work with him in hopes of finding her missing friend. As the theater's curse unravels Kit's life, she is determined to put an end to the evil that has marked the theater and their hometown for the last century.

My thoughts: I'm not usually one for wanting to be scared or anything creepy, but I have read all of Jaime Jo Wright's books and found that they are the perfect read for this time of year! I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this story. It was truly sinister to have people disappear in the early days of the theater and then in modern times. Greta and Kit both feel like they must race against the clock in order to save those they love. 
The suspense in this story kept me up late reading to figure out what happened! I thought that the history was interesting, and loved the historical notes at the end. Whether you like to be slightly terrified or just enjoy a good, historical read, this book is an excellent one to pick up.
I received this book from Bethany House publishers. This is my honest review.


The Legacy of Longdale Manor

 


Two women--a century apart--embark on a journey to healing, faith, forgiveness, and romance.

In 2012, art historian Gwen Morris travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she meets David Bradford--the owner's handsome grandson--who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a luxury hotel. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she's left searching for answers.

In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.

My thoughts: I always love a good duel timeline story! I enjoyed both of the stories in this book, though I favored Charlotte's more, since it had more depth to it. My mother's heart felt bad for her, as she shoulders the secret of her father's that she uncovers after his untimely death. I can only imagine how that would color life.
I hadn't read much about the Lake District of England, so I enjoyed the setting and looking up pictures of the area. This story has me wanting to visit there now!
This is a well written story with a beautiful message of faith and hope. 

I received this book from Bethany House. This is my honest review.

Purchase a copy here! This post contains affiliate links.

How to Plot a Payback



He crossed an ocean, and it still wasn't enough to escape his lifelong nemesis. Now he has to work with her.

Successful screenwriter Finn Masters just landed his dream job writing for Neighbors, one of Hollywood's highest-rated, longest-running sitcoms. The only downside? It will put him back in proximity of the show's universally adored, optimistic, altruistic star, Lavender Rhodes, who has been inadvertently ruining his life since they were school chums in England. But she doesn't even know she destroyed his acting career and wrecked his relationship with the love of his life.

He's not about to let this woman yank yet another dream out from under his feet. In fact, he realizes he's been given the ideal opportunity to plot his payback: spinning her character in shocking new directions.

What could go wrong? Only everything. As Finn's not-so-brilliant plot backfires one scene after the next, catching him in the blasts, he's forced to think about this impossible, infuriating... and maybe even lovable woman in an entirely new light.

Bestselling author Melissa Ferguson is back with a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy for the stars.

 

This book is so adorable! I loved the characters. Finn Masters has kept a list of everything that Lavender Rhoads has ruined in his life, starting with the moment she took his place in their high school play and wound up in Hollywood as a result. But, when the chance of a lifetime comes in the form of writing for the TV show, he can't pass it up. Even if it means writing for Lavender's character. 

This book is such a cute romcom, with likeable characters and funny mishaps. I enjoyed the grump/sunshine storyline. If you are looking for a book that will brighten your day, pick this one up! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. This is my honest review.

Purchase a copy here! This post contains affiliate links.

Thursday, October 26, 2023

The Mermaid's Tale

 


A Tail Could Tell a Tale

Locklyn Adair has never fit in. The legs she inherited as a result of her great-great-grandmother’s curse make it impossible for her to belong under the sea. When her niece is also born without a tail, Locklyn is determined to save her from similar rejection by sending her to the only place in the Undersea Realm where legs are acceptable – the Lost Island of Atlantis.

Darin Aalto would do anything to protect his family, even spearheading an impossible quest to find treasure that has been lost for over a hundred years. But when his best friend, Locklyn, joins his crew, his ability to keep her safe—and his shot at winning her heart—comes perilously close to being swept away.

A family curse, lost treasure, unrequited love, and a race against time intertwine as Locklyn and Darin seek to save their family, their kingdom, and eventually the entire Undersea Realm without losing each other.

 My thoughts: I enjoyed this book even more than I thought I would! The author does a wonderful job of world building. I thought that it was interesting to have the twist where Locklyn and her niece have been cursed to be mermaids with legs instead of tails. The lengths that Locklyn goes to in order to help her niece not live life as an outcast are epic. My only complaint is that this book ends on a cliffhanger. I look forward to the next book in this series and can't recommend it enough!

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

L.E. Richmond was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest by an American composition teacher and a German bookseller. Her childhood consisted in a large part of imagining stories for her Playmobil characters and checking out as many books from the library as her family could fit on six library cards. Now she spends her time chasing two blonde baby boys, reading aloud to the hazel-eyed young man who has her heart, and attempting to transfer the stories in her head into words for others. Her passion is for words and stories that thrill the soul and she is continually amazed by the One who crafted the most epic story of all time.

 

 

More from L.E.

I am a discovery writer, so when I first started The Mermaid’s Tale, I knew only the general plot and that the romance would be between the main character and the older brother of her brother-in-law.

The catalyst for this choice came from a novel published in England in 1815.

Darin Aalto, famous treasure hunting Merman from the Mediterranean, was inspired by none other than Mr. Knightley from Shropshire. He, like Jane Austen’s hero, is kind, experienced, confident, and attentive to the needs of others. On the other hand, my heroine, Locklyn Adair, is not much like Emma Wodehouse, struggling with a lack of confidence rather than the overabundance which plagues the young mistress of Hartfield.

Even though Locklyn differs greatly from Emma in temperament, she shares one marked similarity with her – a deep devotion to her sister’s children. In fact, it is to save her niece from the rejection which legs bring to Mermaids that leads Locklyn to encourage Darin to claim a disputed treasure which in turn leads to hostility from the warrior queen of a neighboring kingdom which leads to a duel to the death which leads to . . . You’ll have to read the book to find out.

Blog Stops

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, October 19

Madi’s Musings, October 19

By the Book, October 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 21

Denise L. Barela, October 21

Texas Book-aholic, October 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 23

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 25

Inklings and Notions, October 26

Life, Love, Writing, October 27

Blogging With Carol, October 27

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 28

Labor Not in Vain, October 29

Holly’s Book Corner, October 30

Simple Harvest Reads, October 31 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 1 (Author Interview)

Of Blades and Thorns, November 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, L.E. is giving away the grand prize package of hardcover copy of The Mermaid’s Tale 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/28799/the-mermaid-s-tale-celebration-tour-giveaway

Monday, October 23, 2023

Children of the Shadows

 

Children of the Shadows JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Children of the Shadows by Erica Vetsch, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Children of the Shadows

Title: Children of the Shadows
Series:
Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries #3
Author:
Erica Vetsch
Publisher:
Kregel Publications
Release Date:
October 23, 2023
Genre:
Christian Regency Mystery

Detective Daniel Swann and debutante Juliette Thorndike once again team up to solve a dangerous mystery--while trying to keep their growing romance secret. 

Someone is preying upon the street children of Regency London. They seem to think no one will notice when urchins go missing--and even if they are noticed, who will care? 

Daniel needs to do something about the missing children. But with recent revelations about his past and an unexpected, somewhat unwelcome inheritance to deal with, this is a terrible time to dive back into the seedy underbelly of the crime world. Nevertheless, he's still a Bow Street runner, and his partner Lady Juliette is sensitive to the plight of these wayward youngsters. They're on the case, searching shadowed alleys and coal-drenched streets to find the missing. 

But the tangle of expectation and the dynamics of power cannot be easily ignored, even if there are children in danger. When Daniel's past threatens to overwhelm his future, he will need a miracle and the help of his friends to both apprehend the villain and unravel his tangled family web. And it may be that his new responsibilities demand that he leave the children of the shadows to their terrible fate--or lose everything. 

Erica Vetsch's popular Regency mystery series concludes with a bang, sure to satisfy readers who have hung on every page since book one.

My thoughts: I have enjoyed every one of Erica Vetsch's books, and have particularly enjoyed how this series has progressed! I would recommend reading the books in order, since the story makes more sense that way, though this one can be enjoyed as a stand alone. It's just interesting to read about how Juliette and Daniel got to the points they are at in the beginning of this story.
A lot is going on: with Daniel and his past, then Lady Juliette facing choices about her future. The suspense is spot on. I enjoyed how the characters develop throughout this story. I enjoyed the different look at this point in history, with Juliette's world clashing a bit with helping the street children. 
I highly recommend picking this book up! I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review. 

PURCHASE LINKSGoodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

 


About the Author

Erica Vetsch

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.

Connect with Erica by visiting ericavetsch.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a complete paperback set of the Thorndike and Swann series, and a $10 amazon gift card

Children of the Shadows JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 23, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 30, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

Royal and Ancient

 


Bronwyn Campbell's end-of-summer plans were simple: wrap up her job at Saint Andrews Country Club, meet her friends one last time at the virtual reality arcade, and move across the country—again—with her father. But when lightning strikes while she's working the club's Saint Andrews Heritage Day, she's transported from an American fairway to the home of golf, The Links at St. Andrews, in Scotland—and in the year 1691, no less.

When Iain MacDonald discovers Bronwyn knocked out cold on the seventeenth green, little does he know their meeting would change not only the course of their lives but the course of history. The son of the chieftain of Clan MacDonald, Iain bears the weight of responsibility for his family and his clan's survival on his shoulders. Family drama and the growing discord over religion in Scotland add to the heavy load he carries daily while stepping further into his role as future chieftain.

As political events between England and Scotland heighten the conflict surrounding the MacDonald lands, Bronwyn and Iain rely upon their shared faith and growing feelings toward each other for survival. Amid the questions that plague both of them, though, one stands out: How can you be with the one you love if your choice ultimately influences history?

My thoughts: I always enjoy a good story about time travel! Royal and Ancient is a fun one, since Bronwyn is sent back to the late 1600's to the very place that she works in modern times. I thought the author did a great job of writing how confusing that could be to both the person sent back in time and those who meet that person. There were some funny mix ups as Bronwyn learns to communicate with those around her. 
The history in this story is interesting, and I appreciated how Bronwyn grows as a character and in her faith as the story progresses. I was a little surprised with some of the plot twists, but there were some good surprises. Overall, this is a wonderful book for both teens and adults! 
I received a copy of this book from White House publishing. This is my honest review. 

Purchase a copy here.

Purchase a copy here. This post contains affiliate links. 

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Running to You

Running to You JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Running to You by Robin Patchen hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Running to You Title: Running to You 
Series: The Wright Heroes of Maine #1 
Author: Robin Patchen 
Publisher: JDO Publishing 
Release Date: October 10, 2023 
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

From a USA Today Bestselling author...

Sam never understood why Eliza left him five years ago, ghosting him without explanation. He’s avoided romance ever since, focusing on building his business. Money might not keep him warm at night, but it can sure buy a lot of blankets. 

Then Eliza shows up on his doorstep and throws herself into his arms. She can’t explain her bruises or the head injury that’s left her with no memories of the past five years, including their breakup. No matter how good it feels to hold her, though, there’s no way he’s getting sucked into romance again. 

He’ll deliver Eliza to her mother, and that will be that. But instead of finding her mom, they’re met by two attackers and barely escape alive. Despite the danger to his life and his heart, he can’t leave Eliza to fend for herself. 

Together, they embark on a journey to reconstruct her past while evading the men chasing her. As Sam and Eliza close in on the truth, their romance reignites, but her secret threatens to destroy them both. 

Prepare to be enthralled by this gripping story of amnesia, a second chance at love, and a secret baby. Running to You is an edge-of-your-seat Christian romantic suspense set in Maine that will keep you reading all night long. 

My thoughts: I love how this story starts off fast paced and doesn't let up! I can only imagine being in Eliza's place, with having no memory of the past 5 years except the feeling that you aren't totally safe. It would be hard to think that you were back in at the same place you were 5 years previous! I thought it was interesting how Sam handles her being back in his life. He had recognized that their relationship wasn't something that should pick up where they had left off, but he didn't always succeed in coming across as a changed man. I felt bad for both the characters, at times. 
This is an enjoyable, fast paced story! I look forward to reading more books in the series.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

Glimmer in the Darkness Tides of Duplicity Vengeance in the Mist


About the Author

Robin Patchen

Robin Patchen is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of Christian romantic suspense. She grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, the setting of her Nutfield Saga books, and then headed to Boston to earn a journalism degree. After college, working in marketing and public relations, she discovered how much she loathed the nine-to-five ball and chain. After relocating to the Southwest, she started writing her first novel while she homeschooled her three children. The novel was dreadful, but her passion for storytelling didn’t wane. Thankfully, as her children grew, so did her writing ability. Now that her kids are adults, she has more time to play with the lives of fictional heroes and heroines, wreaking havoc and working magic to give her characters happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s editing or reading, proving that most of her life revolves around the twenty-six letters of the alphabet.

Connect with Robin by visiting robinpatchen.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive hardcover copy of Running to You, a "Welcome to Nutfield" mug, and a $50 Amazon gift card!

Running to You JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 18, 2023 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 25, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway


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JustRead Publicity Tours

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Havoc

 

Havoc JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Havoc by Ronie Kendig, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Havoc

Title: Havoc
Series:
A Breed Apart: Legacy #1
Author:
Ronie Kendig
Publisher:
Sunrise Publishing
Release Date:
October 17, 2023
Genre:
Paramilitary Romantic Thriller

A soldier, a Malinois, and a stuntwoman walk onto a TV set . . . 

Former Special Forces operator Sergeant Crew Gatlin takes everything in stride, even the career-ending incident that separated him from the Army, half a leg, and his beloved working dog, Havoc K027. Putting his life back together and lying low, he takes a job with A Breed Apart and is unexpectedly reunited with Havoc. It’s too good to be true—and the proof is in their first assignment: to work as a K-9 team for a television drama in Los Angeles. Miffed at being relegated to TV fodder, he’s willing to pay the price when he sees the stuntwoman. 

Being a stunt double allows Vienna Foxcroft to fulfill her acting dream—with a side of MMA—and stay out of the limelight. The same one that plagued her childhood and put her through a nightmare scenario. Now, her tight-knit stunt team are the only ones she trusts. Then in walks Mr. Mountain-of-Muscle and his tough-as-nails dog, and Vienna has a bad feeling her life is about to turn upside down. 

Ticked as they head overseas for a location shoot in Turkey, Crew guts it up—after all, he has Havoc again. Okay, and yeah—Vienna is going, too. When an attack sends the cast fleeing into the streets of Turkey, Vienna must face the demons of her past or be devoured by them. And Crew and Havoc are tested like never before. 

Experience the high-octane thrill ride that is the first book in the A Breed Apart: Legacy series.

PURCHASE LINKSGoodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

My thoughts: I enjoyed this story and the fast pace of it! Ronnie Kendig does a wonderful job of writing military stories with layers of intrigue and action. The characters are well written, making one feel like they are friends with them. I enjoyed how unique this story and setting was. My family lived in Turkey when I was pretty young, so it was interesting for me to return there through this story. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

I received this book from JustRead. This is my honest review. 

More in This Series

Chaos


About the Author

Ronie Kendig

Ronie Kendig is a bestselling, award-winning author of over thirty-five books. She grew up an Army brat, and now she and her Army-veteran husband have returned to their beloved Texas after a nearly ten-year stint in the Northeast. They survive on Sonic runs, barbecue, and peach cobbler that they share—sometimes—with Benning the Stealth Golden and AAndromeda the MWD Washout. Ronie’s degree in psychology has helped her pen novels of intense, raw characters.

Connect with Ronie by visiting roniekendig.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a paperback copy of Havoc and a $10 gift card to the Sunrise Shop!

Havoc JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 16, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 23, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Thursday, October 12, 2023

Abounding Hope Spotlight and Excerpt

 

Abounding Hope Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Abounding Hope by Cindy Kay Stewart, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Abounding Hope

Title: Abounding Hope
Series:
Circle of Hope #1
Author:
Cindy Kay Stewart
Publisher: Hope Springs Press LLC
Release Date:
October 3, 2023
Genre:
WWII Christian Historical Romance

Poland’s looming defeat forces an American teacher to escape with children wanted by the Nazis. 

It’s late August, 1939, and the world is on the brink of war. The Nazis are threatening Poland, but American teacher Irena Simmons refuses to flee to safety. She’s dedicated her life to serving in her church and school, and she’s watching over the little German boys she whisked to safety the year before. When her former classmate, Jonathan, surprises her in Lvov and insists she leave with him before the war starts, Irena balks. Nothing will interfere with her work—especially a man making demands. 

American shipping magnate Jonathan Huntwell had a crush on Irena in school. When their former classmates select him to travel to Poland and escort her out before it’s too late, he doesn’t expect the inner turmoil she ignites in him. Although honor-bound to aid any friend in trouble, Jonathan acknowledges that Irena is more than an obligation to him. However, he must keep his feelings hidden, or he’ll jeopardize their friendship. 

Irena soon discovers that the Gestapo agent she successfully evaded in Germany has found her in Poland, and he’s after her young charges. When the Germans invade, Jonathan is in Denmark on business, too far away to help. As the rising danger threatens everything Irena holds dear, she must find a way to protect those she loves. 

Based on true events and backed by extensive research, Abounding Hope is sure to delight fans of WWII adventure cloaked in sweet romance. Come to the place where the war began and discover hope in the darkest places.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

Excerpt:

How could she say she loved God when she only served Him on her own terms? 

Piotr patted her shoulder. “If our worst fears come true, we must cling to God’s promises. Nothing can remove us from His love. He is with us, even when we’re too distraught to feel His presence.” Irena sniffled. She had trusted in His promises. In His love. She’d given her life to serve Him. But it wasn’t enough. Nothing was turning out the way she’d expected. It wouldn’t do to throw those words in Piotr’s face, so she remained quiet.

He squeezed her shoulder. “Get plenty of sleep tonight. You will need it.” 

Irena raised her head as Piotr rose and lowered the wick on the kerosene lamp. The flame died. “Don’t forget to blow out the candles.” 

Oh, Lord, please forgive me. I’ve been so stubborn. And about the war—I want the fighting to end, but not at the cost of Poland’s defeat. And dear Teresa. Strengthen her. I was supposed to be with her . . .

A soft whisper spoke to her heart . . .

When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee.” 

Calm spread over her. Tears pooled in her eyes but no longer gushed like a fountain. She sat up and repeated the verse aloud. Oh, Lord, so many lives are at risk, and it seems the waters are about to swallow us whole.



About the Author

Cindy Kay Stewart

Cindy Kay Stewart, a retired high school social studies teacher, current church pianist and Christian historical romance author, writes stories of hope, steeped in love, and anchored in faith. Passionate about revealing God’s handiwork in history, Cindy loves to research until she uncovers hidden gems to share with her readers. She resides in North Georgia with her college sweetheart and husband of forty-two years. Her daughter, son-in-law, and four adorable grandchildren live nearby.

Connect with Cindy by visiting cindykaystewart.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card, a signed paperback copy of Abounding Hope, and an e-book copy of Escape (true stories of escape from WWII)!

Abounding Hope JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 9, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 16, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Star of Wonder

 

Star of Wonder JustRead Takeover + Review JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Star of Wonder by Angela Hunt hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Star of Wonder Title: Star of Wonder 
Author: Angela Hunt 
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 
Release Date: September 26, 2023 
Genre: Advent Devotional 

Come, Rediscover the Wonder and Reality of the Very First Christmas 

We all love the Christmas season, but have we buried the truth of the day? 

Bestselling author Angela Hunt weaves together visceral storytelling with overlooked biblical historical truths to help you rediscover the places, people, prophecies, and purpose of Christmas. Each of the engaging twenty-five devotions includes scriptural insights, historical facts, and personal application, which--along with weekly family activities--will have everyone saying, "I didn't know that!" as the Nativity comes to life anew. 

Explore Bethlehem and Nazareth. Walk with Mary, Joseph, and others. Be amazed by the words of the prophets of old. And be warmed by God's great purpose that culminated in the birth of the Messiah. 

Star of Wonder is perfect as an individual Advent devotional or for family and small group study. You will see Christmas with new eyes, create lasting holiday memories, and shine light on the wonder of that night so long ago. 

"This Advent devotional is written with passion, showing patterns and prophecies that filled me with renewed hope and wonder."--FRANCINE RIVERS, bestselling author of The Lady's Mine and Redeeming Love  

My thoughts: I love this unique devotional! I have enjoyed many of Angela Elwell Hunt's stories over the year, so I was thrilled to read this devotional by her. I love how it dives into the prophecies and customs of Biblical times. I have often wondered how different the first Christmas looked in comparison to what we portray today, and this book did a wonderful job of filling in that picture. I love that there are family activities sprinkled in, giving one a chance to include the whole family in this devotional. I look forward to picking this book up again for the holidays!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review. 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | Christianbook | BookBub

Also Available

Daughter of Cana The Shepherd's Wife A Woman of Words The Apostle's Sister The Woman from Lydia


About the Author

Angela Hunt

Angela Hunt is a New York Times bestselling author of more than 160 books, with nearly 6 million copies sold worldwide. Angela's novels have won or been nominated for the RWA RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the HOLT Medallion. Four of her novels have received ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year Award, and Angela is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from both the Romantic Times Book Club and ACFW. Angela holds doctorates in biblical studies and theology. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs and chickens.

Connect with Angela by visiting angelahuntbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive one Angela Hunt book released by Bethany House Publishers from the last two years (winner's choice)!

Star of Wonder JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 11, 2023 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 18, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Christmas in the Crosshairs

 


It’s Christmastime and love is in the air. But when these three Elite Guardians walk into the crosshairs of trouble, they find themselves fighting not just for justice, but for the lives of the men they love in this riveting thriller collection!

Deadly Holiday Hijack by Kate Angelo

“Come out to Savannah, she says. It’ll be fun, she says. Boss can be in the nativity pageant, she says,” Yeah. Great idea.

Bodyguard Christina Sherman and her fiancé, former spec ops air commando Grey Parker just want to sneak away to beautiful Savannah, attend a Nativity Pageant, maybe set a wedding date. But when a group of terrorists take over the church and the whole thing is live streamed, they find themselves in a hometown version of a Die Hard Christmas movie. But will they make it to the happy ending?

Silent Night Siege by Kelly Underwood

Billionaire Preston Whittaker and bodyguard Laila Rabbinowitz just can’t get a break. Not only are their schedules so crazy they’ve put their relationship on simmer, but on their way to the mountains for much-needed togetherness…yep, their plane crashes. Suddenly they’re stranded on a remote mountainside in freezing temperatures, minimal food, wildlife, and no hope of rescue.

And then, the real danger starts. Someone deliberately caused the wreck, and that person is hunting them through the wilderness.

Now, it’ll take more than togetherness to survive…

Christmas Snowstorm Standoff by Sami A. Abrams

It’s finally time for bodyguard Lizzie Tremaine to tie the knot with the man she’s loved for years—fellow bodyguard Charlie Lee.

But maybe fate is still against them, because on the eve of their big day, a snowstorm hits. And, while it’s kept the guests away, it’s brought trouble in the form of a woman from Charlie’s past. More, she’s on the run from a killer…

A man who will stop at nothing to make sure Charlie and Lizzie never make it to the altar.

Now Lizzie and Charlie must battle the storm, stop the killer, and defeat the doubts that suddenly have them wondering if they are truly meant to be.

Three epic love stories. Three edge-of-your-seat thrillers. Three Christmases caught in the Crosshairs inspired by best-selling author Lynette Eason’s Elite Guardian series.

My thoughts: I never know what to expect when it comes to novella's, since it can be hard for the story to gain much momentum before it ends. That was not the case with this book! I think it helped that each of the main characters had a full length novel before this book, so it's like returning to catch up with old friends. I love the holiday theme and the variety of high stake adventures each couple goes through. I would recommend reading the full length stories before picking this collection up, though each of the stories can be enjoyed without doing so. This is an enjoyable collection to pick up and enjoy before Christmas!

I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

Purchase a copy here! This post contains affiliate links.

Monday, October 9, 2023

Creed

 


He's a criminal—who must become a prince to save the princess he loves. But will she have to become a criminal to save him?

In the heart-pounding conclusion to the epic Minnesota Marshalls series, Princess Imani finds herself once again in peril as she becomes the target of a deadly plot. She needs Creed – only problem is, he’s facing charges in Lauchtenland. But he’s not going to let that stop him from protecting her…even if he has to become a fugitive. But who is trying to kill her? Together, they race against time to unravel a web of deceit and conspiracy that seems to entrap the entire family. As their journey takes them from the palace to the high mountains, and finally back to Minnesota, Imani and Creed must discover the truth before tragedy destroys everything—and everyone—they love.

Read the thrilling finale of the Minnesota Marshalls series, where the fate of a family and destiny of a kingdom hang in the balance.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this story and the way it wrapped up the series! I have enjoyed each of the Marshalls stories, so it was a delight to read more about Creed. I appreciated how this story tackles some difficult questions, since both Creed and Princess Imani struggle with feeling like they belong. Creed due to being adopted and coming from a rough background and Imani for being both adopted and thrust into the roll of Princess as a young woman. There is a lot going on in this series, and I thought that, for the most part, this book wraps a lot of things up. I am sure there will be more added to the bigger picture, with their still being a few questions that need answers. 

I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

Purchase a copy here! This post contains affiliate links.