Kisses from Heaven Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Kisses from Heaven, Book Three: Unique, Inexplicable, Extraordinary, and Supernatural Tales from the Heart of a Miraculous God

Author: C.B. Caleb Woodworth

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living / Personal Memoirs/ Prayer/ Inspirational

Release date: December 10, 2024

Jesus proved who He was by signs and wonders. Here, pastors and restoration ministers C.B. Caleb Woodworth and intercessor wife, Emily Anne, are ready to serve you a banquet of real-life God Stories, personal testimonies of Jesus’ unique, inexplicable, extraordinary, and supernatural ways to illustrate, once again, He is still the same yesterday, today, and forever.

If you’ve ever wondered whether God was still performing miracles in our day, this series will be a welcome reminder of his power and goodness.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

A Marine aviator and family physician, C.B. Caleb Woodworth and Proverbs 31 wife, Emily, left the world to follow Holy Spirit as restoration (inner healing) missionary pastors over the last twenty-six years. Today, the Woodworths continue ministry among those in need from America’s heartland, making the most of their time, for the days are short.

 

 

 

 

More from C.B. Caleb

In a world that is growing darker and where hope seems far away, we need to hear about the goodness and faithfulness of God all the more.

This little book of true God Stories will introduce you to the wondrous ways Holy Spirit works to accomplish His will and purposes. Sometimes referred to as miracles, these “Kisses from Heaven” have most often come as a complete surprise or at the eleventh hour to turn ordinary events into inexplicable, extraordinary, or even supernatural ones.

Whether you are doubtful and need a reason to believe or you are a faithful believer grown weary in your walk, you will find story after story of God’s gracious intervention in the lives of mortal men and a hopeful reminder of the goodness and faithfulness of our heavenly Father.

So, Christian, come join us for a walk through our encouraging, if not eye-opening, personal little book of God Stories. We pray it becomes the harbinger of Jesus sharing tender mercies to and through your own lives, leading to an awesome Kiss from Heaven or two for you to pass on to the kids, grandkids, and generations to come.

Interview with the Author

What does success as an author look like to you?

I recall that the word “success” was only used once in the Old Testament when Abraham’s servant “successfully” found a wife for Isaac. So success was a completion of the mission. My mission since 2002 was to write God Stories from my life. That would be success for me. How the Lord wishes to use these books would be up to Him. They are, after all, His stories and me a scribe.

Which chapter was most difficult to write?

Probably the introduction to “A Black Cloud,” where I detail my impulsive choice to ultimately risk my children’s lives by a mere two feet from a thundering overloaded speeding log truck. A close second is “The Number Two Elevator,” where my daughter and I were thrust into peril in a hotel elevator in downtown Manila, one that I knew was a chronic problem in an infamous Manila hotel, where we both nearly lot our lives. Every decision leads to consequences and is worth at least the honor of considering its outcome. Aviators call that good headwork.

What was inspiration for this book?

In 2002, we docked our RV in Long Island Village, an RV park on the intracoastal waterway in Port Isabel, Texas. When settled, I had a strong unction (I believe from Holy Spirit) to take a tablet outside to write—the first time since college. Twenty-two years later (2024), and the “Kisses from Heaven” trilogy of sixty-five nonfiction tales has gone to press.

What would you like your readers to get out of this book?

John the Baptist in jail sent his disciples to ask if Jesus was the one or whether they should wait for another (Matt. 11). Jesus did not answer the question but told John’s followers to check out His miracles. Things haven’t changed. People need proof before they can believe most anything. Doubting Thomas did. In our day, we better have more than fine words to share about Jesus. Your testimonies will make the difference. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). He had to prove Himself. We must prove Him also.

Why write non-fiction?

Jesus used fictional parables to illustrate the truth. How much more powerful are parables that are true? We can illustrate and be defeated by clever speech. A man with an experience is never at the mercy of a man with an argument.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 22

Artistic Nobody, January 23 (Author Interview)

Stories By Gina, January 24 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 24

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, January 25 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 26

Guild Master, January 27 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, January 28

A Reader’s Brain, January 29 (Author Interview)

Godly Book Reviews, January 30

Back Porch Reads, January 31 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 1 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, February 1

Fiction Book Lover, February 2 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 3

Simple Harvest Reads, February 4 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, C.B. Caleb is giving away the grand prize of a $100 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of all three books in the series!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54138

When the Avalanche Roared Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: When the Avalanche Roared (A Day to Remember Book Five)

Author: Lauralee Bliss

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction

Release date: January, 2025

The Day Hope Seemed Swept Away

Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.

Lillian Hartwick has been in the small railroad town of Wellington, Washington, caring for her cousin and assisting the postmaster when February snows bring all train traffic to a halt. Slow-witted but kind Griffin Jones, who works odd jobs for the railway while enduring taunts from other workers, has tried his best to gain Lillian’s interest, but she is engaged and waiting her fiancé’s arrival from California. Predawn thunderstorms on Tuesday, March 1, 1910, trigger a devasting avalanche, sweeping two trains down Stevens Pass. Lillian and Griffin work together to help survivors, including Griffin’s tormentors. In the midst of the catastrophe their feelings for each other grow. But is it enough when Lillian’s fiancé finally arrives in the spring, ready to claim her as his own?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Marilyn

This Historical Christian fiction read is well penned with the research and detailed information with the difficulties faced to keep railroad lines cleared of snow during the winter. This is another worthy read in A Day to Remember series of how a disaster changed lives and is an event that should not be forgotten.

 

I was in the midst of the story from the beginning till the end. I felt the emotions of family members who were separated because of their jobs, especially those working for the rail line during the winter. Lillian journey to Wellington to help fill a request and something to do while her fiance was away gave way to more than she anticipated. The luxuries she knew were no longer available, but her gentle ways and the kindnesses from a simple, hardworking worker inspired her to not to complain. I loved the characteristics of Griffin and his faith kept him going despite how he was treated by others. When trains were stranded due to the endless snow the natural disaster hit that caused unbelievable damage, lives loss and so much more. The rally of the town folks and traveling a dangerous slope for assistance was emotional but filled with history, determination, aspiration, faith and insight to the tragedy that changed the landscape of America in the Cascades area of Washington state. I admired Lillian with all the challenges she faced and acceptance of all despite social economic status or their intellect. One never knows how God will orchestra lives when relying on him instead of social obligations, as the author beautifully illustrated in this Christian Historical Fiction read.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishers and Celebrate Lit Bloggers tour. I have shared my own thoughts.

About the Author

Lauralee Bliss has always liked to dream big dreams. Part of that dream was writing, and after several years of hard work, her dream of publishing was realized in 1997 with the publication of her first romance novel, Mountaintop, through Barbour Publishing. Since then, she’s had twenty books published, both historical and contemporary. Lauralee is also an avid hiker, completing the entire length of the Appalachian Trail both north and south. Lauralee makes her home in Virginia in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with her family.

 

 

More from Lauralee

Pure Joy

Lauralee Bliss, Author of “When the Avalanche Roared”

 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds…  James 1:2 NIV

How does one equate a scripture like this with the death and destruction inherent in natural disasters? It seems an oxymoron to expect joy when faced with twisted metal and broken lives, such as in the deadliest avalanche in American history depicted in When the Avalanche Roared. Even now I think of the natural disaster of the hurricane that just recently destroyed mountain communities in western North Carolina, with homes and lives swept away in an avalanche of water and mud. So it was back in March, 1910 when a mile wide bank of snow detached from Windy Top in the northern Cascades of Washington State, slamming into three parked trains near Wellington, sending cars and sleeping passengers tumbling into the ravine. Over ninety lives were lost.

This could be considered a trial of supreme magnitude. Yet scripture commands we consider joy in the midst of it. The word joy evokes smiles and laughter, peace and satisfaction. It brings to mind Jesus resting in the boat in the midst of a raging storm, tossed about on high waves while the disciples huddle together in abject fear. After He calms the seas He asks them, “Where is your faith?” It demands the human mind look away from apparent destruction to something higher. To look beyond what one sees to the unseen. To trust God even when nothing appears trustworthy.

When the Avalanche Roared delves into the flames that spark, not from smoldering locomotives in a ravine, but within a small rail town that banded together in the wee hours of a frigid morning to rescue others. The destruction is evident. But the grit and determination of those who dug out people from heavy snow solidified by rain and cared for the suffering while their town remained isolated from the world speaks of a picture far greater than the picture of destruction. So it is today with communities swallowed by mud and trees and splintered fragments of homes as reminders of a destructive hurricane. Beyond the visual are the outpouring of help and compassion and holding the hands of those weakened by disaster in gestures of hope and resolve. And in this, a new birth of joy is realized.

God created us to find joy in struggle, to develop perseverance to achieve a goal despite what is thrown our way, to realize that when we do, we truly lack nothing. And therein we find lasting peace even in the midst of catastrophe.

Strangers unite to help the hurting.

A friend flew from Florida to North Carolina and arranged with this store owner for a free truckload of water for communities devastated by the hurricane.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 30

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 30

Stories By Gina, January 31 (Author Interview)

Pens Pages & Pulses, January 31

Texas Book-aholic, February 1

Blossoms and Blessings, February 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 2

Simple Harvest Reads, February 3 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Life on Chickadee Lane, February 4

Connie’s history classroom, February 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 5

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 6

Betti Mace, February 7

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 8

Cover Lover Book Review, February 9

Holly’s Book Corner, February 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 10

For Him and My Family, February 11

Pause for Tales, February 12

Leslie’s Library Escape, February 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lauralee is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon eGift Card and a print copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54145

Maggie’s Journey Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Maggie’s Journey

Author: Lena Nelson Dooley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: January 7, 2025

A secret adoption, a quest for identity, and a love that could change her life forever.

Margaret Lenora Caine has never fit the mold her mother set for her. When Maggie discovers proof she was adopted, the rift between them only tears deeper. Feeling the sting of betrayal, Maggie requests permission to visit her grandmother in Little Rock, Arkansas. There she’ll set her sights on her dream of becoming a successful dress designer and maybe find her true identity in the process. Her father’s one condition is that she must be travel with her young aunt and her father’s handsome business partner, Charles Stanton—the man who once held her affections.

Charles Stanton, a thriving businessman, has taken a calculated risk by joining forces with Maggie’s father in a joint venture. When asked to chaperone his new partner’s sister-in-law and daughter on a cross-country trip, Charles sees it as an opportunity to strengthen their business ties. Though he initially sets his sights on Maggie’s charming and composed aunt as a potential wife, Charles soon finds himself increasingly captivated by Maggie’s resilience and charm.

With each passing mile, the bond between Maggie and Charles deepens, challenging both Maggie’s plans and her heart. Will the love growing between them help her embrace her identity—or complicate her search for what truly matters in life?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What i think you should know:

Maggie’s Journey by Lena Nelson Dooley is the first book in The McKenna Sisters Series. This is the second edition of the book. Set in 1885 this story features Margaret Lenora Caine, who discovers her adoption while preparing for her birthday.
What I think about this book;
When I read the prologue I thought that Florence would treasure the daughter that she had been blessed with so I was very surprised to read from Maggie’s prospective that she didn’t feel that way instead she felt like she couldn’t please her Mother or live up to her standards. I really enjoyed reading about Maggie as she struggled with the revelation that she was adopted and what that meant for place in the world and her family. Charles and Aunt Georgia were great additions to the story. I really felt Charles was a little fickle in his affections, but I realize many are really like that in reality. The most powerful quote in this book for me was “ You do know that after the enemy of your soul fed you one lie and you believed it, he kept on telling you others.”
How many times do we allow our lives to be poisoned with lies from the enemy? I loved this book and can’t wait to read more in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Multi-published, award-winning author Lena Nelson Dooley has had more than 1,000,000 copies of her 50+ books sold. Her books have appeared on the CBA, Publisher’s Weekly, and ECPA bestseller lists, as well as Amazon bestseller lists. She is a member of American Christian Fiction and the local chapter, ACFW – DFW. She’s a member of Christian Authors’ Network. She likes to create characters and stories that grip her readers hearts.

 

 

 

Book Excerpt

“Mrs. Caine.” Angus McKenna came to an abrupt stop and cleared his throat before starting again. “I’ve come to ask you something that . . . I never dreamed I’d . . . ever ask anyone.” His voice rasped, and he stopped to take a gulp of air, staring off into the distance.

She couldn’t take her eyes from him, even when the baby in her arms squirmed. “How can we help you?”

New tears followed the trails down his cheeks and disappeared into his beard. He grabbed a bandanna from his back pocket and blew his nose with one hand. “I’ve just lost the most important thing in my life.” He paused and stared at the ground. “I don’t know how I can go on without her.” His voice cracked on the last word. Once again he paused, but much longer this time. His prominent Adam’s apple bobbed several times. “I’ve been crying out to God, but I don’t think He’s listening to me right now. If He were . . . ”

What a thing for a man to admit to them. Florence knew he must be near a breakdown. He did need help, but what could they do?

“I’ve decided . . . it would be best to find another family to raise one of my girls.” He stood straighter. “I’ve watched you with Margaret Lenora . . . ”

“Is that what you’ve named her?” Florence gazed at the sleeping baby, and her heart ached for the child. To grow up without a mother.

“Yes.” Angus looked straight at Joshua, and her husband gave a slow nod.

“Your husband has told me . . . how much you’ve wanted a child.”

For a moment, anger flared in her chest. Joshua shouldn’t share her secret with anyone. She took a deep breath to keep from saying something she’d regret. Even though she didn’t even look at her husband, she could feel his gaze deep inside. She was grateful he couldn’t see the ugly jealousy and covetousness that resided there.

Interview with the Author

 

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, January 23

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 24

Artistic Nobody, January 25 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 25

Texas Book-aholic, January 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 28

Devoted To Hope, January 29

Guild Master, January 30 (Author Interview)

Sylvan Musings, January 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 31

Books You Can Feel Good About, February 1

Simple Harvest Reads, February 2 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, February 3

Holly’s Book Corner, February 4

Pause for Tales, February 5

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lena is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54139

Echo Nova Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Echo Nova

Author: Clint Hall

Genre: YA Science Fiction

Release date: January 14, 2024

Dash Keane is about to become the biggest star in history.

As a poor teenager living in the Dregs, Dash Keane can only escape his dismal reality by competing in illegal rooftop races and staying up late to watch the timenet with his younger brother.

When there is an opportunity to participate in a competition set thousands of years in the past, he uses his rooftop racer skills to catch the eye of Mr. Myrtrym, head of entertainment for the massive Dominus Corporation.

It is the chance of a lifetime when Dominus Corp. hires Dash to be a timestar—the focus of his own series in which he must survive some of the most dangerous periods in history, including the Cretaceous period, feudal Japan, the Wild West, and the Golden Age of Piracy. But when empathy for the people of the past conflicts with the desires of his new employer, he must decide whether the price of fame is worth it, a decision that may cost him everything.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Clint Hall is a storyteller, speaker, and podcast host. He has been writing stories since middle school, where he spent most of his time in class creating comic books. (Fortunately, his teacher not only allowed it; she bought every issue.) Known for instilling a sense of hope, wonder, and adventure, Clint is the author of Steal Fire from the Gods (finalist for several awards), and has been published across multiple anthologies and magazines. Find him at ClintHall.com or “The Experience: Conversations with Creatives” podcast, available on all major platforms.

 

 

More from Clint

Time is our playground

What happens when the past becomes the ultimate adventure?

If we could travel back in time, but nothing we did in the past affected the present, would we still consider the past to be “real”?

And if not, how would that “un-realness” impact the way we treated the past and, more importantly, the people who inhabited it? Would they still have fundamental human rights? Would they be protected by laws? Or would we see them as another resource to be exploited?

These are the driving questions behind Echo Nova, though I didn’t have these themes in mind when I started writing the book. I just wanted to write a fast-paced, fun story about a young hero going on adventures through time.

But as I began world-building and plotting, I faced the same issue as so many sci-fi writers before me. In time travel stories, the people going into the past often need to be careful not to make changes that would alter the future. Say the wrong thing to the wrong person in the past, and you might cause a ripple effect of changes that would prevent you from ever being born!

Of course, the problem of being unable to change anything can make for an exciting story with high stakes and lots of tension. The hero must walk a proverbial tightrope to achieve a difficult mission while altering as little of the timeline as possible.

But what if that wasn’t the case? What if the ripples of change in the timestream moved at the same speed as time itself, meaning that if we did alter something in the past, those changes never caught up to us?

For example, if we went back to 2004 and chopped down a tree, it would take 20 years for that “new” reality with the missing tree to reach 2024. But by then, we in the “present” will have moved forward 20 years to 2044, and we’d still have our tree.

If the present is unaffected, the past could become our playground. We could do whatever we wanted.

While that sounds great at first, as I developed the story, I realized that there could also be dire consequences, both in the past and the present.

In Echo Nova, the world’s governments have decreed that because changes to the past don’t impact the present, the past is not “real” but only residual energy and not under the protection of nations and their laws. Corporations can purchase past periods, mining them for valuable resources and owning the people of the past—called “echoes”—like property.

Time travel has also become a pastime of the wealthy. If you have enough money, you can travel back in time to go on a dinosaur safari, watch gladiators battle in the Colosseum, or attend a feast hosted by Cleopatra.

For everyone else, the past is mainly experienced through broadcasts operated by these corporations. These broadcasts feature people called “timestars” who go on adventures in the past to entertain people in the present.

But exploiting humans for our own personal gain and entertainment has terrible consequences, even for those who may claim that they’re “only watching.” When we start to view people as anything other than individuals with rights, flaws, intrinsic value, and everything else that makes us human, the damage goes both ways – hurting those who have been dehumanized as well as those who are guilty of dehumanizing, even if they did so passively.

For instance, while working on this book, I watched the O.J. Simpson documentary and was struck by how people behaved during the infamous Bronco chase. Here was someone accused of a heinous crime, fleeing police while threatening to end his own life, and people responded by flocking to the streets and overpasses to watch. They held up homemade signs while laughing, waving, and smiling for the multitude of news cameras. This wasn’t real life to them. It was part of the show.

As an author, it’s hypocritical for me to be overly critical of entertainment. Further, I believe there is incredible value in well-told stories, both real and fictional, across all mediums. And sometimes, I’ll even admit that I need to turn my brain off and watch something relatively mindless for an hour or so.

But if we’re not careful, we can lose pieces of ourselves on the altar of entertainment.

Echo Nova explores these questions, as well as our culture’s relentless obsession with fame and the dark places in which we can find ourselves in our pursuit of it.

If that all sounds a bit heavy, the book also features pirates, gunslingers, and temporally displaced sea dinosaurs.

After all, sometimes you just need to read something fun.

Interview with the Author

1) What does success as an author look like to you?

First off, thanks for having me on your blog!

I know it sounds cliché, but success for me is simply writing cool stories that I love.

This attitude is closely tied to my faith, and I strive to be genuine when discussing this topic. I think about it a lot. It’s important to define what success means to you.

I’m goal-driven and ambitious; I still work a day job and would love to make enough money to support my family solely as a fiction author.

However, if that never happens, it doesn’t mean I wasn’t successful. I enjoy my day job, and it gives me the time to write. Many authors rely on their writing to make ends meet, and that’s perfectly valid. For me, success is about creating stories that are fun, exciting, and honest.

I want to inspire hope, wonder, and a sense of adventure in my readers. If I can keep doing that, I’ll be successful.

2) Which character did you connect to best in this book?

I suppose it’s cliché or obvious to say the main character, but I connected with Dash. He’s driven by the idea that he needs to accomplish something grand to be significant.

Life often feels that way, as if the world tells us our value comes only from our achievements. This emphasis on accomplishment can overshadow the importance of relationships. Dash struggles with that. He doesn’t intentionally disregard others, but his priorities are misplaced. He’s too focused on what he can achieve, and his sense of value is tied to that.

I’ve experienced that feeling where I thought I had to accomplish something impressive to validate my worth.

3) What inspired this book?

Before I wrote Echo Nova, I spent years on another project with multiple POV characters and a massive scope. I loved working on that project, but once it was done, I wanted to write something that felt different.

That desire inspired the tone of Echo Nova, which features a single main character on a more straightforward journey. While the book is light and enjoyable, it also explores deeper themes, like the desire for fame and the potential desensitization it can cause in how we think about and relate to others.

Ultimately, I wanted to create something fast-paced and fun, but that still had a clear sense of purpose and lots of heart—that’s the essence of Echo Nova.

4) Which author influenced you most?

Many authors have left their mark on me—C.S. Lewis, Max Brooks, Pierce Brown.

However, while writing this book, I was particularly inspired by Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. That book made me feel a certain way, and one night, after I didn’t win a big award for which I was a finalist, I turned to it for escape. I stayed up late in a hotel room, reading it on my phone and taking solace in its voice and fun tone.

While some people think of that book for its nostalgia and pop culture references—elements I appreciate but don’t resonate with as much given my age—what truly speaks to me about Ready Player One are the themes about the importance of relationships.

When I wrote Echo Nova, I tried to capture many of those same emotions and ideas, although in very different ways.

5) What is your favorite Bible verse?

That answer changes for me every so often, but for the past year, I have kept thinking about Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.

It makes me think about my relationships with my sons. They’re still young and don’t always fully understand why I do what I do. They often resist things that I’m trying to do that will not only be good for them but also really fun.

While I always try to approach those moments with understanding, I also can’t help thinking, ‘If you would only trust me and trust that I have your best interest in mind at all times, it would be better for you in so many ways, and you would also get to have even more fun.’

Then I realize that God is probably often telling me the same thing. He wants me to trust Him. I won’t always understand. I won’t always see where we’re going. But if I trust Him and follow His ways, it will not just work out.

It’s going to be awesome.

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, January 31

Simple Harvest Reads, February 1 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 2

Denise L. Barela, February 3 (Spotlight)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 4

Artistic Nobody, February 5 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 6

For the Love of Literature, February 7 (Spotlight)

Wishful Endings, February 7

Guild Master, February 8 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, February 9 (Spotlight)

For Him and My Family, February 9

Fiction Book Lover, February 10 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 11

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 12 (Spotlight)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 13 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Clint is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card, a signed copy of the book, and a bookmark!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54146

Treasures of the Wise Interview and the Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Treasures of the Wise: 30 Devotions For Storing Up Heavenly Riches

Author: Tracy L. Smoak

Genre: Pictorial Devotional

Release date: December, 2024

Stories have been written throughout the centuries about the search for gold. But the true treasure we all need is easier to find than we think. For the wise person, treasure that will not be wasted, tarnished, or stolen can only be found in God’s Word.

Join author and educator Tracy Smoak on a thirty-day journey around the world as she showcases coins to highlight the beauty of the eternal treasure given to us from God. Each devotional is short but filled with riches beyond what the world can offer, as well as photographs of unique international coins and snippets of information about them.

Start your day off as one of the wise, who seeks after priceless insights offered by our Heavenly Father.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

A native Floridian, Tracy L. Smoak grew up riding horses and climbing citrus trees. Her passion is to encourage others in their faith journey. Smoak contributes to Guideposts. Ambassador International released her debut novel, Who Brought the Dog to Church?. Bold Vision published her Bible study about encouragement titled Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place.

She loves photography, and Treasures of the Wise is the third devotional with her original images. Living Water to Refresh Your Soul features tranquil lake scenes while Arranged with Love showcases floral landscapes.

Smoak holds a master’s in Education and a bachelor’s in Communication. At her church home she leads small-group Bible studies.

More from Tracy

Laying Up Treasures

The word “treasure” can send mixed messages. On one hand, that noun can bring forth images of pirates commandeering others’ gold and valuables. We all get a gleam in our eye from time to time and dream of great wealth.

The verb form of “treasure” means to hold something dear, such as a photograph of loved ones. This object may have no special worth, other than sentiment. What priceless object do you protect? Is it a leather baby shoe stored in a tiny box or a beaten-up, old baseball glove?

Either way, what we pursue—and hold—as our prized possession reveals much about our priorities. Is our contentment based upon acquisitions? If so, we find ourselves on a merry-go-round ride that leaves us dizzy. No matter how much we get, we still want more. This constant demand is damaging.

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction” (1 Timothy 6:9 NIV).

To be well off, we need to put our hope in God, who richly provides us with all that we need and more.

“The emptiness we try to fill with earthly things stems from the desire for more of God,” said author and teacher Nancy Jenkins (Bibledolls: A Panorama of 28 Biblical Women).

To live well, we are advised to complete a wealth of good deeds. We are to be generous and willing to share. “In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life” (1 Timothy 6:19 NIV).

Today’s prayer:

Dear Lord, please help us act on opportunities to do good for others. We appreciate your many gifts and find contentment in this moment, just as things are, with You by our side. Amen.

Interview with the Author

1)What does success as an author look like to you?

Success occurs when ideas connect with readers and help them cope with everyday life. I love it when someone lets me know that a Scripture or quote touched them in a meaningful way and encouraged them. Sharing photographs of God’s many blessings brings me joy.

2)What inspired this book?

When traveling overseas, I love studying the designs on foreign currency. I imagine who might have held the coins and what they could tell me about their life. Over the years, a simple collection grew, so I began sharing the coins with high school students in my English classes. We made maps, wrote narratives, and studied cultural icons. Treasures of the Wise combines my love of learning with Bible truths.

3)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

My new favorite verses come from reading yesterday in 1 Chronicles 9:26-27 NIV:

The gatekeepers “were entrusted with the responsibility for the rooms and treasuries in the house of God. They would spend the night stationed around the house of God, because they had to guard it; and they had charge of the key for opening it each morning.”

This is special because it reminds us that every person has been entrusted with the ability to protect the precious things of God. Each night with prayer, we guard our loved ones. And each morning walking forward in faith, we open doors for others to see God.

4)What would you like your readers to get out of this book?

My prayer is that these pictures and reflections make the Bible come alive and reveal good ways to manage money. I believe showing everyday blessings reminds us how much God already has given us to cherish.

5)What are you reading right now?

American and Iran: A History 1720 to the Present by John Ghazvinian reads like a novel. He captures key historical events in conversational manner that influence today. The 545-page nonfiction isn’t my typical read, but Ghazvinian fascinates with insights. His additional 74 pages of endnotes document the precision and care employed to write the work. Most of all, he maintains an unbiased voice. I am in awe of the work he’s done.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 29

Lots of Helpers, January 29

Leslie’s Library Escape, January 30

Simple Harvest Reads, January 31 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 1

For the Love of Literature, February 2 (Author Interview)

SHE LIVES TO READ, February 3

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 4 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 5

Blossoms and Blessings, February 6 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, February 6

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 7

Cover Lover Book Review, February 8

Artistic Nobody, February 9 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tracy is giving away the grand prize of a hardcopy of the color devotional!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54144

Rebel Light Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Rebel Light

Author: Marilyn Turk

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: 2018

She ran away from the war only to find herself in the middle of it. Who will protect her now?

It’s 1861, Florida has seceded from the Union, and residents of Pensacola evacuate inland to escape the impending war. But Kate McFarlane’s impulsive act of rebellion changes her life and that of many others in ways she never expected.
As a result, Kate finds herself with an eccentric aunt in an unfamiliar place. Lieutenant Clay Harris, a handsome Confederate officer, offers a chance for romance, but his actions make Kate question his character. When a hurricane brings an injured shipwrecked sailor from the Union blockade to her aunt’s house, Kate fights attraction to the man while hiding him from Clay. She’s determined to warn her sea captain father about the blockade, but needs someone to help her. Who can she trust – her ally or her enemy?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Melissa

Set in 1861, Kate is to stay with a Great Aunt after sneaking onto her father’s ship. While staying with her great aunt, Kate meets the handsome Lieutenant Clay. Events happen that make her not trust men, but when the enemy, a union soldier, washes up on shore, Kate learns to love her enemy.
The setting of this story was fun, and I enjoyed the characters. Kate is our main character, and she definitely grows throughout the story. There were times I was annoyed with her but in the end, I ended up liking her. I liked that she learned to trust again. The Christian content in this story is really good. I loved her aunt Sally. She was such a strong character, always guiding Kate to the right thing. I also liked John and Bessie they were great supporting characters, and I liked they got a happy ending. There were some parts of the book that were a little too slow for me and other parts that were too fast. I wish it had a little more consistent pacing. Overall, the story was good.
⭐⭐⭐
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

About the Author

Award-winning author Marilyn Turk writes historical and contemporary novels laced with suspense and romance. She especially likes finding little-known historical tidbits to include in her books. In addition to fiction, Marilyn is a contributor to Guideposts’ Walking in Grace and other anthologies. She and her husband are lighthouse enthusiasts, have visited over 100 lighthouses, and served as volunteer lighthouse caretakers at Little River Light off the coast of Maine.

When not writing or visiting lighthouses, Marilyn enjoys reading, walking, kayaking, fishing, gardening and playing tennis. She also sings in the choir at her church and leads a women’s Bible study group.

She is a member of ACFW, Faith, Hope and Love Christian Writers, AWSA, Word Weavers International and the United States Lighthouse Society.

More from Marilyn

When I moved to Florida, I “met” my first lighthouse in person, the Pensacola Lighthouse. I was hooked on lighthouses from then on. I’ve always been interested in Civil War history as well, since so much of it took place in the south where I live, and I’ve been curious about what it was like to live in Florida during the war. Research on the subject got my creative wheels turning, and the story of Rebel Light was born. The book takes place in the beginning of the Civil War in Florida and shows the effects it had on the people living in the area. I loved the story of Katherine, the only child of a seafaring father, as she matures after leaving her familiar home in Pensacola and finds herself in an unfamiliar place where she has to abandon the rigid societal  confines of her former life and become an asset to her hardy great aunt in Apalachicola.

These characters are like my good friends, and I love them and their personalities. In fact, I love them so much, I wrote a sequel to Katherine’s story, Revealing Light, and thus the whole series of the Coastal Lights Legacy was born.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 17

lakesidelivingsite, January 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 19

Pens Pages and Pulses, January 20

Life on Chickadee Lane, January 21

Texas Book-aholic, January 22

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 23

Betti Mace, January 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 25

For Him and My Family, January 26

Holly’s Book Corner, January 27

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, January 28

Pause for Tales, January 29

Stories By Gina, January 30 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, January 30 (Guest Review from Melissa)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marilyn is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54133

Tracy Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Tracy: A Sweet, Quirky, Romantic Masterpiece (Book 6 of the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue series. It can be read as a stand-alone.)

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Genre: Sweet, Wholesome Romance (Retro)

Release date: October, 2024

Her heart can’t take more breakage…

…He’s been wounded enough

Yet they’re becoming best friends without ever having met.

Tracy Callahan has learned that relationships aren’t for her. The struggling glass artist puts up barriers to keep romantic entanglements from causing more pain. However, her feelings are growing for her roommate’s brother, despite having never seen him in person.

How can just his voice on the phone hold that much attraction?

Danny Mitchell left a large part of himself in Viet Nam and is learning how to navigate life back here in the states. It’s better to just avoid the public. As long as he doesn’t have to see anyone in person, he can pretend he’s his old self, and the caller on the other end of the phone won’t know the difference.

But Tracy is breaking through, resurrecting feelings he thought were dead and gone.

They might find a way to make a telephone relationship work. Unless meddling loved ones get involved.

When that happens, can Tracy and Danny’s friendship survive meeting face-to-face?

Or could there be something more than friendship in store for them? Maybe a God-designed masterpiece built from their broken parts?

Return to 1973 Kokomo, Indiana where the legend of the cardinal in the sycamore can still prove true love.

You will enjoy this sweet, quirky tale of hidden worth, because sometimes what we need is right in front of us.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Historical Christian Romance author, Jennifer Lynn Cary, likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty plus years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small-town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series, The Relentless series, and The Weather Girls trilogy as well as the stand-alone novel, Cheryl’s Going Home, her novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café, and her split-time novels The Traveling Prayer Shawl and The Forgotten Gratitude Journal. Her current spin-off series, The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue, contains standalones with a common thread.

 

More from Jennifer

Have you ever met characters in a story that stayed with you, even when they weren’t the main characters? That’s what happened to me after I wrote Runaround Sue. Sue’s brother and her roommate seemed to hit it off so well, and I loved those characters.

It only made sense to give Tracy and Danny their own story.

However, I will confess that I had planned to make a character named Tracy because of the song, “Tracy” by the Cufflinks. It’s such a happy, bouncy tune and I thought that fit Sue’s roommate.

I do need to add that I relied on a childhood friend for some Danny’s antics. At one point I was told that something he did wasn’t possible. The problem was, I knew it was because my friend, Maureen McKay did that very thing. Maureen had a personality like Tracy’s and determination like Danny’s.

A few years ago I was back in Kokomo for a special wedding anniversary party. I noticed a guy sitting at a table and went to talk with him. At that time, I was combing faces for someone I’d known back when I went to school there. He had that look, but as we talked, it was obvious we didn’t know each other.

A little later I told my cousin about that, and she said that he was ahead of us in school, but he had a younger sister who would’ve been about my age. I knew immediately why he’d looked familiar. He was Maureen’s big brother.

I searched him and his mother out quickly and let them know I remembered Maureen. I mentioned a few of our escapades. Then I told them that my husband and I had lost a son, and that the kindest thing anyone could say was that they remembered our Ian. So, for that reason, I wanted them to know I remember Maureen.

And that’s why Tracy is dedicated to the memory of my friend Maureen McKay.

Interview with the Author

1)Which character did you connect to best in this book?

Tracy. Hands down. I understood her vulnerability and her desire to be first in someone’s heart. I got to see a little of that when I wrote Runaround Sue but now in Tracy, I really got to explore her emotions and thinking.

2)Which part of the book was the most difficult to write?

I think Danny’s perspective was tough at times. Putting myself into his situation, a lot of questions were raised concerning his physical abilities and workarounds—especially in 1973—and his emotional challenges. I really liked Danny and his snark and vulnerability. But I’m not a combat Viet Nam war vet stuck in a wheelchair, so I asked a lot of questions.

3)What inspired this book?

Several things, actually. First, both Tracy and Danny were supporting characters in Runaround Sue. I really liked them and wondered what would happen if they got together. The other thing or person, rather, who inspired me was a childhood friend, Maureen McKay. Maureen had to be one of the happiest, funniest people alive. I can’t remember her ever being down though she had reason. I believe she suffered from muscular dystrophy, and it was diagnosed when we were in sixth grade. By high school she was in a wheelchair. They lived in the center of the block and their house was set on the top of a hill so that their driveway started as an alley that divided the block in half but had a turnout for their unattached garage at the peak. Maureen would sit at the top of that hill, grin big, then take off her brakes and race down toward the street. Somehow, she always managed to stop in time and skid to a halt. I could see Danny doing this and had to research to make sure it was possible, even though I’d seen it with my own eyes. I couldn’t wait to get that scene written and I think it came out pretty good. (even if I say so myself. 😉)

4)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

That’s easy—I wrote a devotional about it!

Isaiah 41:13

For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand,
Saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’
(NKJV)

When God holds your hand, there is nothing more secure.

5)Describe your view as you’re sitting in your writing chair.

You know, I’ve asked this question before but never been asked it. 😊

My office is in the front of the house off our living room. I write on a laptop, that sits on a lap desk while I kick back in my grandmother’s mauve-colored velour Lazy Boy rocker (my feet and legs swell if I sit too long at my desktop). Anyway, the chair is pointed straight at the only window that looks out over our front yard and street. Below the window is a white bookcase filled with my paper crafting tools. There are no curtains or blinds. Instead, the glass is covered with a frosted vinyl—the mid-section is solid but for the top and bottom I cut out designs from the vinyl. That allows me to see the shades of blue in the sky and the types of clouds without giving the neighborhood a free show into my mess.

Oh, on top of the wooden window frame, I have the letters of my name, JENNY, that my eldest daughter surprised me with at my 60th birthday party. She lovingly cut them out, then decoupaged pictures from all aspects of my life on them—from me as a baby, with my sibs and parents, wedding photos, those of our children growing up, current photos of them, of us. When I look up, I can’t help but know I’ve been richly blessed.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 21

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 22

Texas Book-aholic, January 23

Vicky Sluiter, January 24 (Author Interview)

Pause for Tales, January 24

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 25

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 26 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 27

Simple Harvest Reads, January 28 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 29

For the Love of Literature, January 30 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 31

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 1 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, February 2

Blossoms and Blessings, February 3 (Author Interview)

Leslie’s Library Escape, February 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a signed copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54137

Trekking Toward Tenacity Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Trekking Toward Tenacity: Your Family’s Roadmap to Stronger Mental Health

Author: Chris Morris

Genre: Parenting / Christian Living / Mental Health

Release date: September 24, 2024

Empower your children with the gift of tenacity through these practical, meaningful tools for their mental and spiritual health.

Trekking toward Tenacity walks through Psalm 139 verse by verse, discovering how we can help our children develop mentally healthy habits. The goal is to coach our kids to be more tenacious because we live in a tumultuous world. It can be hard to stay focused on God and on mentally healthy habits in that tumult, but this book gives concrete ways to help kids to do just that.

By teaching parents practical application steps to implement with kids of all ages, ranging from preschool to adolescent, this book will give them new tools to support their families in the quest for better mental health. It will provide rock-solid encouragement for parents who are stressed out and wondering if they’re making the right choices for their families. It provides counterintelligence against the onslaught of increased risks of mental health challenges for children and young adults today.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Chris Morris is a certified mental health coach dedicated to promoting understanding of mental health issues within the church. Because of a lifelong struggle with depression and suicidality, Chris became committed to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging others to seek after holistic health.

As a writer and speaker, Chris has shared his personal story and insights with audiences across the country, inspiring many individuals to take control of their own health, break free from poor theological teaching placed upon them, and seek the support they need. He has published several books on mental health, the most recent being Resilient and Redeemed. His work has been featured in a number of media outlets, including CrossWalk, The Mighty, and Fathom Magazine.

Chris is deeply committed to creating a more compassionate and supportive world and church for individuals living with mental health issues. Through his writing and speaking, he is a powerful voice for change and a beacon of hope for those in need.

More from Chris

I literally wrote the book that I wish I had 20 years ago when I was raising my kids. Being a parent today is tumultuous. Especially in a post-COVID world, mental health is a strong contender for the biggest challenges facing our kids. There are plenty of books out there that give us theories on how to raise our kids, and plenty of books that are full of devotionals to walk through with our kids, but shockingly few books dedicated to coaching our kids to have tenacity.

In my experience, tenacity might be the biggest difference maker between seeing our kids move successfully through life and floundering. It’s a given that challenges will come, whether those struggles look like not making the varsity basketball team or something more serious. We simply have to help our kids know how to walk through the missed opportunities and hard times that will inevitably come into their lives.

Trekking Toward Tenacity does just that. We walk through Psalm 139 verse by verse and pull out practical, meaningful tips, tricks, and conversations to have with our kids to help them develop resilience. News flash: there’s no magic potion we can give our kids that gives them bounce-backability. Instead, this is found through conversation about life and God.

My favorite part of this book was writing the age-appropriate activities in the center of each chapter. Instead of only giving you theology or child psychology data without any practical application, Trekking Toward Tenacity includes specific activities you can try out with your kids. There’s obviously no guarantee that these ideas will work, but I can tell you that they worked for other kids. These are pie-in-the-sky concepts, but activities that have been tried in the real world.

If you’re looking for a book that will arm you with skills to coach your kids on how to develop tenacity in their lives, this is the book for you!

Interview with the Author

1)What does success as an author look like to you?

I measure success differently for every book that I write. For Trekking Toward Tenacity, I am measuring success by the stories that I hear from families that implement the strategies I outline. These stories might be few and far between, just because of the nature of publishing today, but I will cherish every opportunity that I get to hear from people who are actually using my ideas in their families.

2)What inspired this book?

The genesis of this book is kind of wild, to be honest. I was reading the Psalms in my devotions one day and came across Psalm 139. As I read it, the entire outline for the book was pouring out right before my eyes. I was seeing the stories that I would use in the different chapters, I was seeing even some of the age-appropriate activities that I suggested in the final form of the book. This is very different from how I normally write books. Usually there is some research involved and some pondering whether the idea I have is really a full book or not. But with Trekking Toward Tenacity, the book came to me in full form. My only explanation is that God really wanted this book out in the world, so he popped the idea into my head.

3)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

My favorite Bible verse is Romans 8:31 – “If God is for us, who can be against us?” This is the most powerful rhetorical question in the history of the world. It declares the awesome truth that the Creator of the universe, the most powerful being there ever was, looks upon us and chooses us. He chooses not only to pay attention to us (which is amazing in its own right), but even more than that, he chooses to be for us.

Nothing ought to shake us as we gather into our spirit and allow it to settle there. Even when darkness and challenges comes, which Jesus promises they will, we can rest assured that God is for and us with us. When the tears fall down our face because it’s just that hard, God is right by our side, perhaps even crying with us.

4)What are you reading right now?

I am reading a few books right now. I am finishing up Having the Mind of Christ by Ben Sternke and Matt Tebbe. I just started Does God Really Like Me by Geoff and Cyd Holsclaw. And I am also reading Crucified God by Jurgen Moltmann. In other words, I’m having a heavy reading season right now. Sometimes, I have lighter fare such as speculative fiction or even the occasional poetry book.

5)What is your most well-loved and well-used house appliance?

All the individual pieces related to my pour-over coffee. I have a nice cup of coffee to start every morning, and usually another one in the early afternoon to get me through the day. I am a bit of a coffee snob though, so I can’t just have a cup of joe from the Keurig. I need to make sure the coffee is ground at the right fineness, and then the water needs to be at the perfect temperature. Once that happens, I need to coffee grounds to bloom for just the right amount of time before I complete the pour. Like I said, I’m a bit of a snob. We all have our vices right? If coffee is my worst, that’s not so bad.

Blog Stops

Its Mama Safe, January 16

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 17

A Reader’s Brain, January 18 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, January 19 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 19

Artistic Nobody, January 20 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, January 21

Aryn the Libraryan, January 22

Back Porch Reads, January 23 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 24

Simple Harvest Reads, January 25 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, January 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 26

Fiction Book Lover, January 27 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 28

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 29 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Chris is giving away the grand prize of a $75 Amazon gift card, a copy of Trekking Toward Tenacity, and a free Audible copy of my previous book Whispers in the Pews: Voices on Mental Illness in the Church!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54132

Charlotte McMaster and the Messenger Angel Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Charlotte McMaster and the Messenger Angel

Author: Terry Overton

Genre: Middle Grade Reader Fiction

Release date: November 26, 2024

Charlotte McMaster is in trouble. Some innocent memes shared to the whole school have resulted in community service at a rehabilitation center for the elderly. But her time with Mrs. Abigail Hooper will at least get her out of the tension at home, where her father stays out late working and her mother spends a lot of time worrying.

But when Mrs. Hooper invites Charlotte to spend time in her garden, she tells Charlotte about an angel that appeared to her when her husband died. Charlotte is drawn to the elderly woman and soon finds herself bringing her best friend, Ellie, on her visits as well. Seeking for answers about her adoption and her biological parents, Charlotte continues to be drawn to the garden to see if she can see the angel for herself.

Will Charlotte ever be able to find the answers she is searching for? Or will her search tear her family apart?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology. Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean. She has two children, seven grandchildren, one great granddaughter. Her writing and publication experiences include textbook and journal articles in the fields of special education and school psychology. She seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals. Her books have won Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Winner Awards, Bookfest Winner Awards, Reader Views Silver Reviewers Award, and International Book Award Finalist. Her books examine real world events with a Christian worldview. She enjoys writing for young children, middle grade readers, YA fiction, and adult level novels. She and her husband live in the southern tip of Texas where they enjoy semi-tropical weather and spending time with their friends and family.

More from Terry

My daughter is an amazing person. After having three children, she and her husband felt God calling them to do more for children without parents. They fostered eleven children. But one year, they were asked to foster a newborn infant whose mother was no longer able to care for any of her children due to drug addiction. It was not that the child was rejected by his mother but that she could not care for him. My daughter brought him home from the hospital at the age of three days while he was having withdrawal symptoms from meth. After a few months, they decided to adopt the child. The process took a while because, for a short time, the child was allowed to return to his birth mother. He now lives with my daughter’s family, and he is an absolute delight and a great addition to the household. Charlotte McMaster and The Messenger Angel is dedicated to my daughter. It is a middle-grade reader about a middle school girl who, while wrestling with the question of being adopted and being rejected by her birth mother, meets a fascinating elderly lady. The vision of an angel provides help and guidance as this young girl comes to realize her adoptive parents were selected for her by God. This story conveys themes of healing, hope, and spiritual discovery. Through the character of Charlotte McMaster, the novel explores how a young girl, navigating the challenges of family tension and personal identity, seeks guidance from earthly and Heavenly sources. The elderly Mrs. Abigail Hooper tells Charlotte about her own experience with an angel. This introduces Charlotte to the idea of divine presence, sparking her curiosity about her past and adoption.

Interview with the Author

1)What does success as an author look like to you?

Success means others read my work and learn something about their own faith. Success also means others want to share my work with their friends and family and have discussions about the content.

2)Which character did you connect to best in this book?

In Charlotte McMaster, the elderly neighbor, Mrs. Hooper, is near to my heart. She helps Charlotte to strengthen her faith while helping her to understand her adoption.

3)Which part of the book was the most difficult to write?

 Knowing the specifics about adoptions and different kinds of adoptions was important in writing an accurate plot.

4)What inspired this book?

My daughter has fostered eleven children and she and her own family adopted a little boy after they fostered him for a few years. She is an inspiration to many people.

5)Which author influenced you most?

E.B. White (Charlotte’s Web) as a child. As an adult, Hemingway. I like his crisp style although I am not sure I could write like that.

6)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

I have several favorite verses but one that means a lot to me these days:

Isaiah 41: 10

So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand

7)What is your vacation spot?

I lived along the Texas coast for many years and had a great life at the beach. I recently moved to my hometown of Fort Worth Texas and live on a lake. My favorite vacation spot was always Hawaii. These days I am happy to travel through writing.

8)What are you reading right now?

The Truth in True Crime: What Investigating Death Teaches Us About the Meaning of Life

by J. Warner Wallace and Alisa Childers

9)Describe your view as you’re sitting in your writing chair.

Since I have just moved into a new house, my office and writing chair are not quite put together! I have boxes of books all over the place. I am currently writing at my kitchen table but soon my writing spot will be upstairs in a large room with lots of light.

10)If you could have one book or piece of art or music on a deserted island, what would it be and why?

I would only need my Bible.

Blog Stops

Leslie’s Library Escape, January 18

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 19

A Reader’s Brain, January 20 (Author Interview)

Library Lady’s Kid lit, January 21

Back Porch Reads, January 22 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 23

Simple Harvest Reads, January 24 (Author Interview)

Bizwings Blog, January 25

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 26

Texas Book-aholic, January 26

Artistic Nobody, January 27 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 28

Guild Master, January 29 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, January 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 30

Fiction Book Lover, January 31 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54134

Honeymoon’s Over Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Honeymoon’s Over

Author: Carol McClain

Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

Release date: September 27, 2023

Honeymoon’s Over

For better or worse.

Easy vows for newlyweds Chantel and Charlie. Having been widowed, they knew the worst of love was years away. Furthermore, at fifty, they wouldn’t live long enough for the bad to blossom.

Then they came home from their honeymoon.

Chantel’s pregnant daughter Sissy, living with them during her husband’s deployment, must remain on bed rest. Histrionic and bored, she’s a … challenge.

Chantel’s vegetarian son Graham moves in for a few weeks to help with his sister, but something doesn’t seem right. He never got along with his military-loving, meat-eating sibling. He didn’t have ulterior motives for coming to help, did he?

Charlie’s married daughter, Margo, could certainly enumerate the issues these adult children her father’s new wife had. On top of everything, how could her father have chosen that woman?

Then there’s Charlie’s father—lost in old-age absentmindedness. Certainly, he was only forgetful.

Thank heavens for jobs they love that get them out of the house. Except …

Should they have vowed for worse or better?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Carol McClain is the award-winning author of five novels dealing with real people facing real problems. She is a consummate encourager, and no matter what your faith might look like, you will find compassion, humor and wisdom in her complexly layered, but ultimately readable work.

Aside from writing, she’s a skilled glass artist who has just made a foray into creating high-end jewelry. She’s also an avid hiker. She teaches Bible studies and mentors teens.

She lives in East Tennessee with her husband and too many animals to mention.

 

More from Carol

Disclaimer #1: Beware.

If we get to know each other, the humor of your life is liable to become fodder for my work. (Of course, with permission. Occasionally!) But don’t worry. I don’t write suspense, so you’ll never be in danger.

Background:

My brother married a widow when they were in their fifties.

He was a meatatarian. “Vegetables have rights,” he’d declare as he reached for a second round of bacon. He’d then heap on fried potatoes. The tubers were his nod to vegetables.

His wife was gluten intolerant and a health food lover of all foods green.

When he moved in with his wife, so did his vegan son who lived on gluten (and very few veggies). Gluten found its way onto her countertops, her refrigerator shelves, and dishes he didn’t wash.

Her son lived with her as well and came arrayed with the eccentricities my nephew lacked. The two sons made a complete, chaotic pair.

Add to them a diabetic mother who was starting dementia and my bet was on the fact this marriage was doomed.

Fortunately, I’m not prophetic. They remained happily married—despite my brother’s eating predilection. However, their situation made me laugh and became the fodder for Honeymoon’s Over.

Disclaimer #2: no HIPPA rules or privacy issues or personal matter have been disclosed. Names have been changed to protect the guilty (just don’t read the dedication, then the name change is mute.)

Disclaimer #3: If you’re expecting a sad, tearjerker, you’ll be disappointed. Oh, you will cry—tears of laughter. You’ll chortle throughout Honeymoon.

Interview with the Author

1)What does success as an author look like to you?

Success is having readers come back for more of my work. I want to entertain, first and foremost. That’s why I write fiction. However, in my fiction, I want to make the reader think, feel, and come away with eyes open to the possibilities of Jesus.

2)What inspired this book?

If I know you, beware. In some form you may end up being the inspiration for my book. This work is a work of humor as well as theme. I am a humorist. Even my most serious work is humorous. So ,as you read the spark of inspiration and the characters I love, know they are viewed through the healing eyes of laughter.

In the case of Honeymoon’s Over, my spark was my brother and his new wife.

When Art married Kathy, he moved his Antifa-loving, vegan son in with him and my new sister-in-law. She had gluten issues, and his son, as a vegan, ate only gluten (exaggeration).

My brother’s daughter didn’t like his new wife—perhaps jealousy dominated her. His wife also had an aging mother with dementia, and an adult son with OCD. Add to the mix, three needy dogs On top of everything, this union was viewed through my lens of humor. How could it succeed? Don’t worry. It did. The marriage was loving and successful despite these issues.

3)Which author influenced you most?

Annie Dillard. Her style is spiritual and poetic. She sees the world as no one I’ve ever known.

I taught Pilgrim on Tinker Creek for years to my AP class (they hated me for it). Every year, I reread the memoir and saw new things in the work.

For several years, I tried to imitate her style. Then I found my own.

I give away books. I sent them to McKay’s. Dillard stays on my shelf.

4)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

Now to Him who is able to keep. you from stumbling, And to present you faultless Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, To God our Savior, Who alone is wise, Be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, Both now and forever. Amen. Jude 24-25

I struggled for years with the idea God could forgive me. This verse gave me ironclad comfort on two levels:

  1. He can present me faultless, not with groanings and glad to be done with me but with exceeding great joy!

With joy. God loves me and has cleansed me. I make him happy.

  1. The doxology that follows always makes my heart sing. I think the Doxology is my favorite hymn.

5)If you could have one book or piece of art or music on a deserted island, what would it be and why?

I’m sorry. I’m going to have to give the Christian cliché. The Bible.

I have a hard time rereading books. Once I know the content, my mind wanders and I don’t see the words any longer.

The Bible has inspired saints and scholars and artists and writers. The book gives wisdom and comfort and correction. I’ll write in the sand. Draw with the ends of burned wood—and draw my inspiration from what inspired people for thousands of years.

Blog Stops

Girls in White Dresses, January 8

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 9

Stories By Gina, January 10 (Author Interview)

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, January 11 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 11

Artistic Nobody, January 12 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, January 13

Guild Master, January 14 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Acdemy, January 15

A Reader’s Brain, January 16 (Author Interview)

Back Porch Reads, January 17 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, January 17

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 18 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 19

Fiction Book Lover, January 20 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, January 21 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To  celebrate her tour, Carol is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54126