Titus and the Christian Coin Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Titus and the Christian Coin: An Adventure of Faith and Freedom

Author: Dennis Conrad with Co-Author Derinda Babcock

Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction

Release Date: November 7, 2025

When Titus refuses to deny his Christian faith, Roman persecution destroys his family and condemns him to a brutal life in the copper mines of northern Italy.

Underground, surrounded by despair and danger, he must choose between hatred and hope, revenge and redemption.

From a mine collapse to an emperor’s audience hall, Titus’s journey spans the Roman Empire during Constantine’s transformative reign.  Alongside Tribune Felix, he discovers that true freedom comes through forgiveness, not force. Authentic historical details bring ancient Rome to life while timeless themes of faith, friendship, and courage inspire modern readers.

This gripping adventure combines accurate historical research with compelling storytelling. Readers will witness early Christian persecution, experience Roman culture, and walk through Constantine’s palace while following Titus’s transformation from broken slave to Roman citizen.

An unforgettable tale where archaeological accuracy meets heart-pounding adventure, proving that faith can triumph over the darkest circumstances and that God’s love never abandons His people.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Authors

DENNIS CONRAD is a retired Professor of Speech Communications. He’s taught in the U.K., Central Asia, and Asia. His picture book, Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin, won Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference First Place, Kudo’s Award, for best children’s book. He is a Fellow of the National Writing Project and an Amazon Bestselling Author. Dennis is a life member of the American Numismatic Association. His books are available on Audible.

 

DERINDA BABCOCK is an author and graphic designer. She lives in southwestern Colorado near the base of the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. In her previous career as an English as a Second Language teacher, she worked with students of all ages and many different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The richness of this experience lends flavor and voice to the stories she writes.

 

More from Dennis

The Dairy Cow: The Origin of My Life as a Writer

By the Author of Titus and the Christian Coin

There it was at my fingertips. It was the evidence I needed to prove I’ve been a writer since childhood.

Imagine my surprise when I found The Dairy Cow in my garage. Not just any cow. It was the one I had drawn a picture of and written about in the 1960’s.

I walked by the image and ten lines of writing every day growing up because my mother placed the famed picture in the hallway on the way into my bedroom.

Why would something like this be so important to a man who has written an award-winning children’s book, Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin, and The Two-Cent Piece about the first coins with the words “In God We Trust?”

From starting school until fifth grade, I was a slow reader. My teacher took me aside one day after class and asked, “Have you ever had your eyes checked?”

My response. “No, but my father wears glasses.” After an eye exam, and glasses were prescribed, I could see.

My grades started improving. By the time I was in high school, I was given a scholarship to the six-week University of Kansas Speech and Debate Institute. It changed my life. I earned a master’s degree in Speech Communication. One year, I became Speech Coach of the Year. I ended my career as a Professor of Speech Communications.

The picture of the cow and the little I wrote about the history of cows is an heirloom from a bygone era.

Writing the earliest manuscript of Titus and the Christian Coin, my current young adult novel, required skills I acquired over a lifetime of writing including my writing and illustrating The Dairy Cow.

May God bless you and your family,

Dennis Conrad

Interview with the Author

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

    I do not attribute my success as an author to hard work, persistence, or dedication. It is not having attended countless writer’s conferences or invested heavily in training courses. Even though I have done these. Years ago, I asked, “Lord, I am open to what You have for me. Tell me what you want me to do in retirement.”

    I heard the still small voice of the Lord say, “Write for me!”

    The Lord gets the glory for my successes and my becoming an Amazon bestselling, first-place, award-winning author.

    I am successful because I have been obedient.

2)What inspired this book?

    I found a picture of a coin online and did some research. The coin was from the time of Constantine the Great. I wrote an early version of Titus and the Christian Coin as a children’s picture book manuscript. In August 2024, I pitched that book idea to a publisher. She was not interested in the children’s book version but wanted me to rewrite the manuscript as a middle-grade novel instead. She expected a 160-page manuscript. After five months, I completed a 158-page manuscript. Derinda Babcock ultimately helped with an extensive revision, so she became my coauthor. Titus’s age changed, so the final manuscript became the young adult (YA) novel it is today.

 

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

    My life verse is Proverbs 3:5-6.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.

    My first children’s picture book, The Two-Cent Piece, is about the first coins with the words “In God We Trust.” At the front of the book, the dedication ends with a citation of Proverbs 3:5-6. All of my books have elements that give parents an opportunity to discuss trusting God.

4)What are you reading right now?

    I am reading a nonfiction book by Dallas Willard who was a theologian and University of Southern California professor. The Scandal of the Kingdom: How the Parables of Jesus Revolutionize Life with God was released posthumously and edited by his daughter. The second chapter is entitled “How Jesus Taught.” This chapter distinguishes the difference between faith in Jesus and the faith of Jesus (in the Father to do far more that we can ever ask or imagine).

 

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

    If I had to choose one book, it would be the Bible, but if I had to choose one book from the Bible, I would take the book of Luke.

    Luke was a doctor. I find his Gospel, the Good News of Jesus’s birth, death, and resurrection, to be fresh every time I read the passages. I remember reading Luke. For example, I have sat with family members on Christmas Eve when we each read one verse from the Bible aloud about the events that led up to Christ’s birth. I have also been with relatives on Easter mornings when I read the details of the resurrection. Luke’s message to believers at the beginning of his book indicates that the details are accurate, for Luke says in Luke 1:3B-4, “…to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” (ESV)

Blog Stops

For Him and My Family, March 12

Simple Harvest Reads, March 13 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 14

Guild Master, March 15 (Author Interview)

A Simple Texas Girl, March 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 16

Fiction Book Lover, March 17 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 18

Vicky Sluiter, March 19 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 20

For the Love of Literature, March 21 (Author Interview)

Capturing Luminous, March 21

Lily’s Corner, March 22

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, March 23

Artistic Nobody, March 24

The Bookish Pilgrim, March 25

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Dennis is giving away the grand prize of a $100 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.

https://gleam.io/Vpjph/titus-and-the-christian-coin-celebration-tour-giveaway

Heaven Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Heaven: Experience the Extraordinary

Author: Tony Stoltzfus

Genre: Christian Fiction

Release Date: October  3, 2025

At the very edge of heaven, beyond pain and death, the Great Leap waits for you…

Dive in with physicist Amanda for a full-on immersion in a breathtaking, mind-bending new world that’s far, far better than you ever imagined! Gravity is optional, so you can fly. Mistakes are impossible, because evil no longer exists. Time is swallowed in the Eternal Now where you never miss out or run short of time. And an intimacy and acceptance we can only dream of on earth is present with everyone you meet, from the very first moment.

And heaven’s God is gloriously, ridiculously good—as comfortable and accessible as your best friend, completely satisfied in you, yet so big that you’ll never run out of adventure, wonder and delight. Marrying scripture, near-death experiences and physics, this profound journey of imagination will transport you into an eternity you’ll never forget.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Tony Stoltzfus is the author of 21 books on coaching, life and leadership, including the best-selling Coaching Questions (over 200,000 sold). His latest is Heaven: Experience the Extraordinary—a full-on immersion into life in heaven.

His specialty over 25 years as a professional coach is working with ‘senior leaders in painful transitions’, helping them find the goodness of God in the midst of suffering. He’s had plenty of opportunities to meet God in his own adversities, including betrayals, losing access to his life’s work, depression, a home burning down in a forest fire, and more. His message through it all is, “there is nothing that can happen to you that God won’t make something beautiful of.”

Tony has launched or co-launched several coach training organizations, including Leadership MetaFormation and Coaching Mission International. He has trained and certified thousands of Christian coaches, and been recognized by CCNI for pioneering contributions to the Christian coaching field. He is the developer of the Encounter Coaching approach, which transforms the emotional brain by making Jesus a live participant in the coaching conversation.

Tony lives in Redding, CA with his wonderful wife of 37 years, a dog that is a sucking void of emotional need, and a constantly-breaking sprinkler system.

More from Tony

“If people could spend just one day in heaven, they’d give anything to go back…”

Sounds right, doesn’t it? Then what would it take for people to have that experience on earth (without, of course, the messy detail of having to die in the process)?

The surprising key is in that word, ‘experience.’ Experience is the realm of your emotional brain. That side of you that thinks in pictures, stories, and feelings—not in sterile words and detached, rational concepts. Give people a story that transports them to heaven, that lets them feel timelessness, soar in the gravity-optional skies of the Beautiful Land or fall into the all-encompassing embrace of the lover of their soul, and maybe, just maybe, they’d give up anything to go!

The book, Heaven: Experience the Extraordinary, is that story. Join physicist Amanda as she finds herself on the other side, in an astonishing, mind-bending universe where evil has been so completely stamped out that no one remembers it ever existed. In this world built of light, gravity is optional—you can sky-dive without a parachute. Conversations are spirit-to-spirit, with no chance of misunderstanding. You travel at the speed of thought. And heaven’s extra dimensions let Jesus be everywhere at once—so you never have to wait to spend time with him!

For those who’ve experienced loss or grief in this life, it’s a heaven that holds the power to make ALL things well. You’ll weep with Amanda as the devastation of losing both parents as a teen is brought to light; but then rejoice when the Man of Light enters every painful memory, washing her heart clean. You’ll see how prayers and acts of kindness done in secret echo down through generations, joining all of us in a Great Tapestry of connections. Meet the mother of an autistic child, and see how the great sacrifices that circumstance drew from her made them both Great Ones in heaven. Learn how Jesus worked behind the scenes to make the man who betrayed Amanda’s father into one of his dearest friends.

And when Amanda learns that her mom has chosen not to come, discover how heaven makes even THAT well.

And yet this heaven is still, always, more! Join a flash-mob gathered to revel in unrestricted joy. Breathe under water in the River of Life. Garden with an angel, and make a plant grow simply by speaking to it. Travel through time to relive any memory in your life, whenever you want.

Heaven is beyond comprehension—but not beyond imagination! And when we give ourselves permission to imagine the unthinkable, the seed of heaven gets lodged deeply in our hearts.

Interview with the Author

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

For this book, we bought 2000 copies to give away free to seekers and people who are suffering or grieving loss. Since I’m retired (sort of) and don’t have to make money from it, I just want to give away as many copies as possible. Anyone who read the book and loves it can go to the web site at www.HeavenExperience.net , fill out a form and we’ll give you free books to give to people you know who are grieving loss!

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

The most challenging part to think through was how to treat the fact that the main character’s mother doesn’t make it to heaven. How God is good and yet all are not saved is a deep theological question, and I spent several years researching and thinking about it to try to come up with an answer that is simply enough to be understood yet profound enough to make sense of an almost impossible conundrum. We are each given a spark of life. But like the battery in a laptop, it doesn’t last forever. We can trade in our spark for a connection to the power source, but it makes us dependent on him for life itself. Or we can choose to stay independent, and when life runs out…like a battery, we’re dead.

3)What inspired this book?

The original inspiration was a dream I had 40 years ago, where I found myself in heaven. I wrote a song about it, which has kept it in my mind all these years, and I decided early on that one of my goals in life was to make a movie about heaven—because if people could just experience 90 minutes in heaven, they’d give anything to go back.

4)Which author influenced the you most?

CS Lewis’s The Great Divorce, as well as The Last Battle in the Narnia series. He’s one of the few Christian authors to try to envision heaven through fiction as opposed to theologizing about it. I’ve drawn from Lewis’s ideas of heaven as a place that is more solid and real than earth, of transparency in heaven (although the way I’ve used it is almost the opposite of his) and the idea of growth and change being a part of life in heaven.

I’ve also read a bunch of NDE literature and stories, and I have a whole shelf-full of ‘I died and went to heaven’ books, although in most of them I skip the 12 chapters about their medical emergency and just read the one or two chapters about heaven!

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

I’m on our back deck right now, looking out across the woodlands to the mountains in the distance. I’ve always loved to sit in places where I can see far, and I often write out here, year round (it’s January and I’m outside under a blanket!)

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, March 11

Simple Harvest Reads, March 12 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, March 13 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, March 14 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 14

Fiction Book Lover, March 15 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, March 16 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, March 17 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 18 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 19

Blossoms and Blessings, March 20 (Author Interview)

Stories By Gina, March 21 (Author Interview)

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, March 22 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 22

Books, Books, & More Books, March 23 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 24 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Tony is giving away the grand prize of a $150 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.

https://gleam.io/FRl5c/heaven-experience-the-extraordinary-celebration-tour-giveaway

Raging Waters Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Raging Waters

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: March 3, 2026

As the dam crumbles and water sweeps across the terrain, their battle for justice and survival is just beginning.

When Mackenzie Bardine’s brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she started a true crime podcast dedicated to exposing “Bullseye,” the drug kingpin responsible. But her protective heart has never let go of the blame she places on herself and Aaron’s best friend, Gideon Landry. On the run to the wilds of Washington to chase a recent lead, she meets none other than Gideon himself.

While conducting a wilderness survival class in remote Washington, Gideon never expected to cross paths with Mackenzie, and he’s certainly not interested in helping her after he’s already declined to participate in her vigilante podcasting. He carries a mountain of guilt about Aaron’s fatal choices, but not for the reasons Mackenzie suspects.

As killers begin to circle Mackenzie like sharks, it’s clear to Gideon she’s in over her head, and in light of his troubled past with her brother, he can’t bring himself to ignore her perilous situation. Then a flood threatens the town, turning their investigation into a race to escape the raging waters and the wrath of a powerful kingpin who wants to sink them both.

A gripping, clean romantic suspense featuring enemies-to-lovers, second-chance romance, and high-stakes investigations set in small-town Washington, sweeping readers away on a turbulent wave of thrills and chills. Perfect for fans of forced proximity, wilderness survival, protective heroes, and justice-driven heroines.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Raging Waters, an Inspirational Romantic Suspense by Dana Mentink is the second book of the Elements of Danger series. This book features Gideon Landry, a member of the US Air Force and Mackenzie “Zee” Bardine. This book is the second in the series, but it does not give many spoilers to the previous book. This book can be read as a standalone with complete enjoyment.

 

What you might need to know:

This book features danger, man made and natural! It does prominently feature flooding.

 

What I think about this book:

Just when I think that Mentink can’t get any better she shocks me and takes her story to a whole other level.  Gideon is in Washington to run a remote Survival school while on military leave, when he runs into Zee, his childhood best friend’s sister,  his guilt over his death hits him full force. Zee is on a mission to bring justice for her brother’s murder and will not let anything get in her way.  Zee was definitely a character that I wanted to shake some sense into, but bad guys and nature took over the task for me. I liked Gideon from the start and was more intrigued by him as the story went on. Once again Mentink takes her readers on an action packed adventure from the first page to the last. In the story I definitely didn’t know who to trust or what was going to happen next. I can’t wait to see what adventure Mentink takes her readers on next!

 

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

Dana Mentink is a New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and a Holt Medallion winner. She is the author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Revell and Poisoned Pen Press.

More from Dana

I’m afraid of deep water. There. I’ve said it. I live in California, famous for beaches sand and surf. If that’s not enough, there are swimming pools aplenty. I should be enjoying the surfing, boating, kayaking, sailing culture, but I’d much rather sit on a deck somewhere and watch others partake. So what’s a gal like me doing writing an adventure that takes place as a dam rupture overwhelms a town? I love to write that type of wilderness story, where stakes are high and the help is scarce. Similar to the previous book, Fire Mountain, the characters will have to dig deep of their strength and faith to survive. And you and I can enjoy it from the safety of our decks! Are you ready? Grab your book and your cuppa and let’s go!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 3

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 3

The Avid Reader, March 3

The Sacred Line, March 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 4

She Lives To Read, March 5

Texas Book-aholic, March 5

Leslie’s Library Escape, March 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 6

Lily’s Corner, March 7

Pause for Tales, March 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 7

Devoted To Hope, March 8

For Him and My Family, March 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 9

Melissa’s Bookshelf, March 9

EmpowerMoms, March 10

Blogging With Carol, March 10

Just Your Average reviews, March 10

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

Simple Harvest Reads, March 11 (Guest Review from Donna)

Lyssa Loves Books, March 12

Blossoms and Blessings, March 12

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, March 12

Cover Lover Book Review, March 13

Labor Not in Vain, March 13

Betti Mace, March 14

Bigreadersite, March 14

Life on Chickadee Lane, March 15

Lights in a Dark World, March 15

Holly’s Book Corner, March 15

Stories By Gina, March 16 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $100 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.

https://gleam.io/OQ5p4/raging-waters-celebration-tour-giveaway

Fear, Faith, & Freedom Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Fear, Faith, & Freedom, Breaking Through Life’s Challenges with God’s Help

Author: Jenn Dafoe-Turner

Genre: Christian Memoir/Devotional

Release Date: November 25, 2025

Fear, Faith, and Freedom: Breaking Through Life’s Battles with God’s Help is a raw, redemptive journey from despair to deliverance. With deep vulnerability and spiritual clarity, author Jenn Dafoe-Turner invites readers into her story of pain, trauma, addiction, and ultimately, transformation through the power of Jesus Christ. Blending compelling personal narrative with creative retellings of Scripture, this book offers readers more than a testimony—it offers a path toward healing and wholeness.

Each chapter explores a different “battle” of life—fear, addiction, shame, identity, self-sabotage, church hurt, and more—and how God’s truth can bring lasting victory. Through heartfelt storytelling, biblical wisdom, and practical reflection, Jenn shows that freedom isn’t found in fixing ourselves but in surrendering completely to the One who sets captives free.

Structured as a spiritual memoir with devotional elements, each chapter concludes with a “gentle challenge,” reflection questions, a Scripture memory verse, and a heartfelt prayer. This format makes the book ideal for personal study, recovery groups, or women’s ministry settings.

Whether you are struggling with your own dark night of the soul or mentoring others through theirs, Fear, Faith, and Freedom will remind you that no battle is too great for God. His love meets us in the most broken places—and leads us, one step at a time, into a life marked by courage, hope, and the certainty of His grace.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Jenn Dafoe-Turner is a pastor, author, and spiritual midwife who helps birth purpose and nurture hope in the lives of others. Drawing from her own journey of brokenness, healing, and faith, Jenn walks alongside people in seasons of transition—guiding them to hear God’s voice, embrace their identity, and step boldly into their calling.

With decades of ministry experience, Jenn combines biblical wisdom with practical coaching to create safe spaces for transformation. Through her writing, speaking, and coaching, she equips others to trade fear for faith, move from confusion to clarity, and discover the joy of living out their God-given purpose.

As the Spiritual Midwife, Jenn’s heartbeat is simple: “Where truth is formed, purpose is born.”

More from Jenn

Fear, Faith & Freedom: Why This Book Had to Be Written

There are moments in life when fear speaks louder than faith.

Moments when freedom feels distant.

Moments when we wonder if God is still working—even here.

Fear, Faith & Freedom: Breaking Through Life’s Challenges with God’s Help was written for those moments.

I didn’t write this book because I had life figured out. I wrote it because I didn’t.

Why I Wrote Fear, Faith & Freedom

This book was born out of lived experience—through seasons of uncertainty, surrender, recovery, and deep wrestling with God. I have walked through fear that felt paralyzing, faith that felt fragile, and freedom that came one step at a time.

For years, I carried the quiet question many believers hold close to their hearts: Why, God? Why this path? Why this pain? Why me?

What I discovered is that God often does His deepest work not in the absence of fear, but in the midst of it. Faith isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about learning to trust the One who does. And freedom isn’t a single moment; it’s a journey of daily choosing truth over lies.

This book is my offering to those who feel stuck between where they are and where they long to be.

What’s Inside the Book

Fear, Faith & Freedom is part devotional, part reflection, and part invitation.

Inside these pages, readers will find:

  • Honest stories of struggle, surrender, and spiritual growth
  • Biblical insights that meet real-life challenges head-on
  • Reflective prompts that invite readers to pause, pray, and engage personally
  • Encouragement without platitudes—because healing doesn’t happen through clichés
  • A clear message of hope: God is present, purposeful, and faithful, even in the mess

Rather than offering quick fixes, this book walks alongside readers, reminding them that God’s help is not distant or delayed—He is near, attentive, and deeply compassionate.

What Readers Can Expect

This is not a book that talks at you.

It’s a book that sits with you.

Readers can expect to feel:

  • Seen in their questions
  • Understood in their struggles
  • Gently challenged to release fear
  • Invited to trust God more deeply
  • Encouraged to step into lasting freedom

Whether someone is navigating grief, addiction recovery, burnout, faith fatigue, or simply longing for deeper peace, this book offers space to breathe and room for God to work.

Who This Book Is For

Fear, Faith & Freedom is for:

  • The believer who feels weary but the seeker who wants faith that feels real, not rehearsed
  • The reader who needs reassurance that God still shows up
  • Anyone ready to move forward—even if they’re taking small steps

If you’ve ever wondered whether God can bring beauty out of broken places, this book is for you.

Because fear does not get the final word.

Faith is still alive.

And freedom—true, God-given freedom—is possible.

Interview with the Author

1)Which chapter was the most difficult to write?

The biblical narrative. I did not want to take anything away from the text, but there were gaps in the telling of the Holy Week events. So, taking the creative liberty to imagine what it might be like, while remaining true.

2)Which author influenced the you most?

Different authors have influenced different areas of my life, but Beth Moore’s book Get Out of That Pit gave me permission to recognize where I was and that I didn’t have to stay there.

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

Psalm 51:6 ESV Behold, You delight in truth in the inward being, and You teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

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

I would like them to know it’s okay to grapple with the hard questions about who we are, and when we do it on the foundation of Scripture, it transforms us.

5)What is your vacation spot?

Anywhere my family is.

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

Airfyer

Blog Stops

Simple Harvest Reads, March 4 (Author Interview)

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 5

Artistic Nobody, March 6 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 7

Guild Master, March 8 (Author Interview)

Fiction Book Lover, March 9 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 10 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 11

Books Less Travelled, March 12 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, March 13 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 13

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, March 14 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 15

Vicky Sluiter, March 16 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, March 17 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jenn 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.

https://gleam.io/P9bMt/fear-faith-freedom-breaking-through-lifes-challenges-with-gods-help-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Power of the Reframe Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Power of the Reframe

Author: J.J. Bundy

Genre: Christian Living / Self-Help / Faith-Based Healing

Release Date: September 15, 2025

When life hits hard, you have two choices: stay stuck in the pain or learn how to reframe it. The Power of the Reframe is a healing guide for women who are ready to release the weight of the past, renew their minds, and step into a new future with God at the center. Blending biblical truth, real-life wisdom, and practical exercises, this book helps you: Recognize the patterns holding you back. Reframe your story through God’s Word and affirmations. Rebuild a new perspective rooted in faith, ownership, and hope. This is not about ignoring your pain—it’s about transforming it into purpose. With journal prompts, heart-check exercises, and encouragement for every step of the healing journey, The Power of the Reframe shows you how to take your broken pieces and build something whole.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

J.J. Bundy (Jasmine Shegog) is the founder of The Reframe Collective, LLC, a healing-centered brand that equips women and children to break cycles, renew their minds, and build generational wholeness. A mother, writer, and former teacher, Jasmine draws on her own journey through grief, emotional healing, and faith to create resources that make complex emotional and spiritual truths simple and life-changing. Through books, workbooks, and retreats, she helps others reframe their pain into purpose. She also writes children’s books under the pen name J.J. Shegog.

 

 

More from J.J.

The Power of the Reframe because I know what it feels like to be stuck in the weight of your past, unsure how to move forward. For years, I wrestled with grief, emotional pain, and cycles I couldn’t seem to break. But through God’s Word and the practice of reframing, I discovered that the same moments that once felt like breaking points could actually become turning points.

This book is my heart on paper—a guide for anyone ready to renew their mind, take ownership of their healing, and step into God’s purpose with freedom. It’s filled with encouragement, biblical truth, and practical exercises that will help you not just survive what you’ve walked through, but actually be transformed by it.

Interview with the Author

1) Which chapter was the most difficult to write?

The most difficult chapter to write was the one about my grandmother. I struggled with our dynamic for so many years, and for a long time I questioned whether sharing any part of that story would feel like a betrayal to my family. I had to wrestle with that tension: honoring my own truth while knowing that others may see it differently. But eventually I realized this is my healing journey. These are the experiences that shaped me, and I can’t silence my own voice to protect someone else’s comfort. Whoever has an issue with that, that’s their issue — not mine. Writing that chapter was uncomfortable, but it was also freeing.

2) What inspired this book?

I had actually been writing pieces of this book for months, but it never landed. The outline felt off, the language wasn’t right, and I couldn’t quite say what I wanted to say. Everything just felt incomplete.

But when my mom died—and then I remembered my cousin passing three years earlier—it all came together. Those losses forced me to confront everything I had never had the words for before. All the conversations I wished I could’ve had with them… all the things I never said because I didn’t yet have the language or the understanding… this book became the place where I finally said it.

In many ways, writing this book became the conversation I never got to have with the women I loved and lost.

3) Which author influenced you most?

As cliché as it may sound, Jesus is the author who has influenced me the most. The Bible is the book that shapes everything I write and how I think. The principles, concepts, and precepts—once you understand what God is actually saying behind the words—you begin to understand what He’s saying to you.

That clarity is what grounded this book. Scripture gave me the framework to tell the truth, to take ownership, and to write from a place of both conviction and compassion.

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

My favorite verse is: “Owe no man anything, except to love one another.”

If we lived our lives with that as our guiding principle, we would experience transformation in more ways than we can count. It simplifies everything: love people, honor God, and stay out of unnecessary bondage—whether financial, emotional, or spiritual. That verse is a foundation.

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

I want readers to understand that although they may not have caused everything that happened to them—sometimes we contribute, sometimes we don’t—it is always our choice and our responsibility to get our lives in order because we love ourselves. Healing is not about blame; it’s about ownership.

And real self-love often starts with recognizing who loved us first: Jesus. When we anchor ourselves in that truth, we gain the strength to reframe our past, make new decisions, and step into the wholeness we were created for.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 28

Simple Harvest Reads, March 1 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, March 2 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 2

Guild Master, March 3 (Author Interview)

Fiction Book Lover, March 4 (Author Interview)

It’s Mama Safe, March 5

Books Less Travelled, March 6 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 7

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, March 8 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 9

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, March 10 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 11

Vicky Sluiter, March 12 (Author Interview)

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

Mary Hake, March 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, J.J. is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a signed copy of the book and its companion workbook!!

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

https://gleam.io/wNgC2/the-power-of-the-reframe-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Bird of Bedford Manor Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Bird of Bedford Manor

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction / Regency

Release Date: February, 2026

Bedfordshire, England, 1820: Ruined by the sins of her father, Juliet Finch is cast into a life of self-reliance. Survival is a harsh taskmaster, but she is a quick learner and excels at tracking and snaring wild game to feed herself. Juliet embraces her new identity until the day Henry Russell catches her poaching on his land—a crime punishable by death. Henry, however, has other offenses on his mind: namely, the troublesome stalker who’s making a misery of his sister’s life. To try to put a stop to her torment, Henry charges Juliet with tracking the elusive villain so he can be brought to justice. Using her skills, Juliet hunts down the rogue. . .but may just become the prey herself.

Reader favorite Michelle Griep has penned yet another masterpiece with this page-turning adventure that has it all:

  • swoon-worthy romance
  • clever turn-of-phrase
  • colorfully memorable characters
  • charming British setting

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy

Set in 1820 England, Michelle Griep brings us to Bedford Manor where Juliet is the unlikely poacher and Henry is the heir to the estate. I loved learning about how estates were run during this time period and truly enjoyed seeing a glimpse of the Regency social life through a land-owning genteel family. Henry was wonderfully protective, self-sacrificial, kind, thoughtful, and honorable. Juliet had spunk and grit, as well as keen tracking sense that proved useful to Henry. She hid herself well beneath a cloak of sharp wit and fiery words but her tender and compassionate heart came out in the presence of Henry and his sister Charity. The mystery component of the plot was unfortunately slow to build but the mastermind behind the threats to Charity will surprise you. If you enjoy historical romance with a side of mystery and intrigue, you will totally enjoy this book.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Celebrate Lit Tours via NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

 

 

More from Michelle

The Waltz: The Dance That Shocked Regency England

Post by Michelle Griep

I’ll be the first to admit it…I can’t dance a lick. Not a jig, not a reel, and certainly not anything that requires turning in rhythm without stepping on someone’s toes. If you ever spot me on a dancefloor, it’s because someone shoved me there or I lost a bet. Which is probably why the waltz both fascinates and terrifies me. A dance that actually expects you to glide gracefully while holding someone close? Absolutely not. And yet in Regency England, it became the talk of the town.

When the waltz swirled onto the dancefloors of England in the 1790s, it caused more shock than delight. Imported from Austria and southern Germany, it was a turning, closely-held dance—far too close for the comfort of polite society. Many called it indecent, warning that no respectable couple should stand chest-to-chest before a room full of onlookers. Some critics even claimed the dance “ignited dangerous feelings” and threatened to erode proper English restraint.

Shocking, right?

But fashions shift, and all it took was the Prince Regent giving the dance his approval in 1814. Overnight, the waltz transformed from scandal to sensation. By the 1820s, it was everywhere.

Here are a few fun bits of waltz trivia from the era:
• Some etiquette books warned that too much turning could cause “disorientation” or “undue excitement.”
• Early chaperones sometimes counted the number of turns, convinced it reflected a couple’s level of impropriety.
• A lady’s hemline was said to act like a “barometer” of a gentleman’s behavior—if it swayed too wildly, he was holding her too tightly.

In The Bird of Bedford Manor, set in 1820, this same world of rigid rules and whispered scandals forms the backdrop for Juliet Finch—resourceful, determined, and driven into the woods by her father’s downfall. When Henry Russell catches her poaching on his land, everything changes. What begins as a crime punishable by death becomes something far more dangerous as he charges her with tracking the stalker tormenting his sister.

Juliet can track anything. But this time, she may become the hunted.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 24

Devoted Steps, February 24

Bizwings Blog, February 25

Book Looks by Lisa, February 25

Where Faith and Books Meet, February 25

Sylvan Musings, February 26

Sydney Schmied Books, February 26

Lily’s Corner, February 27

Melissa’s Bookshelf, February 27

Inspired by Fiction, February 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 28

Texas Book-aholic, March 1

Simple Harvest Reads, March 1 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 2

Books You Can Feel Good About, March 2

For Him and My Family, March 3

The Bookish Pilgrim, March 3

Betti Mace, March 4

Cover Lover Book Review, March 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 5

Blogging With Carol, March 5

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 6

Blossoms and Blessings, March 6

Stories By Gina, March 7 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 7

Holly’s Book Corner, March 8

Pause for Tales, March 8

Vicky Sluiter, March 8

Devoted To Hope, March 9

To Everything There Is A Season, March 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon Gift 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.

https://gleam.io/zqeQC/the-bird-of-bedford-manor-celebration-tour-giveaway

Light to My Path Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Light To My Path

Author: Erica Vetsch

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: February 10, 2026

A determined orphan caretaker and a wealthy mine owner—brought together by circumstance, tested by tragedy, and transformed by love.

Sam Mackenzie learned the hard way not to trust a beautiful face. After breaking his engagement to a fortune-hunting socialite, he’s focused solely on his family’s mining business. But when his aunt asks him to help escort three orphans and their caretaker across the country, he finds himself drawn to the selfless young woman tasked with the children’s care.

Eldora Carter has spent her life depending on no one but herself. As a former orphan now caring for three unwanted children, she knows better than to dream of a different future. When a journey by rail turns perilous, she must rely on Sam’s help to keep the children safe. Yet accepting his assistance means risking her heart to a man who could never want someone like her. As danger forces them to work together, Eldora discovers that sometimes the greatest risk is refusing to love at all.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy

I loved getting to know Sam Mackenzie better in this book. In the previous book, he was David’s younger brother, always pestering him about David’s relationship with Karen and usually asking for David’s help with their mine business. In this book, Sam grows up quickly and becomes a true leader. The orphanage situation in late 1880s broke my heart completely. So many children with nowhere to turn to and so little resources for them. It was fascinating to see medicine being practiced back in the 1880s and see how congenital heart disease and cleft lip/palate were treated. I loved Sam’s compassionate and loyal heart, protective nature, and take charge ways. Eldora’s gentle, tender, nurturing ways fit Sam perfectly though she did get firm and feisty about values and things she believed in. Their trek from St Louis to Denver then to Martin City on the railroad was fraught with mishaps and setbacks but also had beautiful moments of bonding, joy, and wonder. It was delightful to see David, Karen, and Buckford again and to spend Christmas with the whole Mackenzie family.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Best-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum.

 

 

 

 

More from Erica

Trains. I love trains. I got this love from my father, who is fascinated by all types of trains. When writing Light to My Path, I asked my dad lots of questions, and I relied heavily upon the things I learned at the train museums he took me to see.

One of our favorite train museums is in Duluth, MN. The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, in what was the former depot of the Gilded Age boomtown, is home to one of the most beautiful trains I have ever seen.

It’s name is the William B. Crooks, and it is a steam locomotive.

The William Crooks, the first train engine of any kind in Minnesota belonging to the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad by railroad tycoon James J. Hill of St. Paul. The William Crooks pulled its first train cars full of passengers on June 28, 1862. The William Crooks retired from passenger service in 1897.

Isn’t it beautiful? When the train retired from passenger service, it became the personal train of James J. Hill, The Empire Builder and owner of The Great Northern Railroad.

James J. Hill dreamed of pushing a railroad from Minnesota to the West Coast, through the Rocky and Cascade Mountains. It was along the Great Northern Railroad in March of 1910 that one of the worst train disasters in US history occurred. An avalanche took out two trains, killing 96 people.

This historic event inspired part of the story in Light to My Path. A train, trapped by snow, unable to go forward or back, and with an avalanche imminent. It’s the kind of book that calls for a warm blanket and a hot cup of tea!

You can read more about both the William Crooks and the Cascade Avalanche Disaster at these websites:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Crooks_(locomotive)

https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/march-1/trains-buried-by-avalanche

Blog Stops

Books Less Travelled, February 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 20

Sydney Schmied Books, February 20

Texas Book-aholic, February 21

For Him and My Family, February 22

Devoted To Hope, February 23

Lyssa Loves Books, February 23

She.lives.to.read, February 24

lakesidelivingsite, February 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 25

Melissa’s Bookshelf, February 26

Blossoms and Blessings, February 26

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

Books You Can Feel Good About, February 28

Devoted Steps, March 1

Bizwings Blog, March 1

Book Looks by Lisa, March 2

Little Homeschool on the Prairie , March 2

Cover Lover Book Review, March 3

Holly’s Book Corner, March 3

Lock, Hooks and Books, March 4

Pause for Tales, March 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Erica 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.

https://gleam.io/IemaN/light-to-my-path-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Caregiver at Wounded Knee Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Caregiver at Wounded Knee (Enduring Hope Book 4)

Author: Debby Lee

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: February, 2026

Past and Present Collide on the Railway

When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she’s arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Debby Lee was raised in the cozy little town of Toledo, Washington. She has been writing since she was a small child, and has written several novels, but never forgets home. The Northwest Christian Writers Association and Romance Writers of America are two organizations that Debby enjoys being a part of. As a self professed nature lover, and an avid listener of 1960’s folk music, Debby can’t help but feel like a hippie child who wasn’t born soon enough to attend Woodstock. She wishes she could run barefoot all year long, but often does anyway in the grass and on the beaches in her hamlet that is the cold and rainy southwest Washington. During football season, Debby cheers on the Seattle Seahawks along with legions of other devoted fans. She’s also filled with wanderlust and dreams of visiting Denmark, Italy, and Morocco someday.

More from Debby

A crime against humanity occurred more than one-hundred years ago, a massacre that still resonates, and haunts people to this day. I’m referring to the massacre at Wounded Knee Creek, the slaying of hundreds of men, women and children, their lifeless bodies left on the frozen ground surrounding this small, winding body of water.

In writing my novel, The Caregiver at Wounded Knee, I traveled to the Pine Ridge Reservation in southwest South Dakota. In late April, the grasslands had not yet drank enough water or basked in enough sun to turn themselves green. Even so, I was taken in by the evocative beauty of the land. I noted the rolling hills that seemed to stretch on and on as if they wished to reach out and touch the tip of eternity.

As I drove to the site of the massacre I passed White Clay Creek. My characters, Rose and Nathaniel have a picnic along the banks of this creek. It’s the place where Rose flees to after witnessing the massacre, where she struggles to cope with the traumatic aftermath. Thankfully, Rose and Nathaniel create more happy memories there.

I included two real people in my novel, Doctor Charles Eastman and Elaine Goodale. Dr. Eastman by the way; was a real person, his Indian name being Ohiyesa. He was educated in the east and graduated from medical school. He married Elaine Goodale, a school teacher from Massachusetts. Together they operated a clinic in the community of Pine Ridge and were in many scenes throughout my novel.

When I reached the site where the massacre occurred, I couldn’t help but notice how big of an area the site encompassed. The creek itself surprised me. It wasn’t as deep or wide as I thought it would be and the banks leading to the water were fairly steep in some places. It looked serene and almost peaceful, but I thought, oh if those waters could talk.

I stood on a hilltop where I’m told a Catholic church had once stood and I gazed across the plateau below where the Lakota people were camped. I tried to picture the area where the soldiers were stationed, along with their Hotchkiss guns, which looked like small cannons to me. What went through the hearts and minds of the Lakota people?

I tried to imagine how the stomachs of Rose and those of her tribe were knotted with hunger, how cold they were as the icy wind swept over the land, how frightened they must have been as they were surrounded by soldiers with, Lord knows, what kind of nefarious intentions.

And I cried. I more than cried. I wept. I shed what felt like a gallon of tears for the injustice perpetrated against this tribe, for native people everywhere.

The military was confiscating the Lakota weapons, when gunfire ensued. Hundreds of women and children fell, wounded, dying, or dead. It’s been said they were simply caught in the crossfire.

And yet the body of a woman, who was shot in the back, was found by Dr. Eastman more than a mile from the site. Likely chased down and shot by 7th Cavalry. Eight or nine young schoolboys, who were returning to boarding school, were playing on a slope, nearby. They were no older than ten. They were all were shot dead. An estimated 300 Lakota men, women and children were killed; compared to 31 Army soldiers, many who died from friendly fire.

After the massacre the bodies of the dead were buried in a mass grave at the top of a small hill. I added a scene where Rose and her brother visit the site to pay their respects. It wasn’t easy for her to return to the scene of such trauma, but in her mind, it was necessary.

The long rectangle shaped grave is now outlined with concrete and is surrounded by resting places of many other members of the Lakota tribe. A monument has been placed there, engraved with the names of many of the victims.

There are signs on the Pine Ridge Reservation offering directions to those who want to visit the site. If you’re ever passing through, I recommend a stop there. I know I will be forever changed by the time I spent traversing this hallowed ground.

Interview with the Author

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

I think I related to both Rose the most. She’d been wounded by someone who gave her a warped perception of Christianity. Sadly, I think most Christians have experienced this in their faith. Rose also struggled with walking in two worlds. I am biracial, and have struggled with this in many areas of my life. Though Rose is not biracial, she spent most of her childhood in a residential school, where she was essentially immersed in White culture. When she returned to her reservation as an adult, her views clashed with a loved one who fiercely hung on to the traditional Lakota ways.

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

I struggled to write the scenes where Rose faces her past. She had to question everything she believed about Christianity and open her eyes to what faith really means and learn to forgive the person who wounded her. Those scenes were both grueling and healing, too. Though the words flowed onto the page at lightning speed, I could hard see my computer screen because my vision was so blurred by my tears.

3)What is your vacation spot?

I have wanderlust, so picking one vacation spot won’t be easy. I like visiting cities, but my husband prefers a more country setting. I’ll tell you about one that means the most to me. When my husband and I were married, we didn’t get a real honeymoon due to lack of finances, childcare and time. So, on our 25th anniversary, we renewed our vows and then spent a week Anchorage Alaska. Anchorage offered us the conveniences of city life, restaurants and gift shops, with the opportunities to experience the countryside as well. We loved the wide open spaces, the views of rivers, forests, and wildlife. We even saw a grizzly bear while walking along a road at Mt. Denali, and yes, the thought of how fast could I run, did cross my mind. Thankfully, we made it back to our rented vehicle-without having to run for it.

4)What are you reading right now?

What is a Girl Worth by Rachel Denhollander

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

I’ve written at many different places, cars, airports, Starbucks, but the one with the prettiest view, is my upstairs office. My writing desk is next to window where I could view a field that was surrounded by trees. In the summer, I would crack open the window and let the breeze in. When it was raining I’d watch the raindrops splash against the paned glass. I haven’t spent time writing in my office for awhile, but I hope to do so again, soon.

Blog Stops

Books Less Travelled, February 26

Simple Harvest Reads, February 27 (Author Interview)

Sydney Schmied Books, February 27

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 1

Texas Book-aholic, March 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 3

For Him and My Family, March 4

Connie’s History Classroom , March 5

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 6

Cover Lover Book Review, March 7

Pause for Tales, March 8

Betti Mace, March 9

Devoted To Hope, March 10

Books You Can Feel Good About, March 11

Holly’s Book Corner, March 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Debby is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon Gift 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.

https://gleam.io/G0Oie/blaze-of-courage-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Restitching of Camille DuLaine Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Restitching of Camille DuLaine (The Rivenlea Book 2)

Author: Lindsay A. Franklin

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release Date: February 10, 2023

A splintered world, a heart gone cold.

Hope reborn in threads of gold.

After accidentally bridging the storyworlds together, Emlyn DuLaine faces an impossible task: sever the connections without destroying the stories themselves. If she fails, the characters will be trapped in twisted versions of their tales, forced to relive their worst moments forever.

But undoing the bridges is only the beginning. To truly fix what’sbunraveling, Emlyn must uncover the secret flaw buried deep in Rivenlea’sbfoundation, something that’s been wrong since the very start.

And the danger has never been closer to home. The clock is ticking for the injured wyvern who needs Rivenlite air to survive and the story boy Emlyn swore she’d never fall for. Emlyn and her team must rescue Frank and Laramie from chaotic, shifting story spheres before they’re gone for good.

But Frank and Laramie aren’t the only ones lost to the spheres. Camille DuLaine is a prisoner, held as bait by someone who knows exactly how to lure her sister in. After seven years of sleep, Camille wakes to find herself trapped in a storybook and sure of only one thing: Emlyn must stay far, faraway.

Racing to solve one mind-bending puzzle after the next, Emlyn uncovers a plan seventeen years in the making. She stands at the center of a fractured universe—and she might be too late to save it.

 

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Lindsay A. Franklin is the Carol Award–winning author of The Story Peddler, the ECPA best-selling author of Adored, and Managing Editor of Enclave Publishing. She would wear pajama pants all the time if it were socially acceptable. Lindsay lives happily among the rain and evergreens of the Pacific Northwest with her scruffy-looking nerf-herder husband, their three (nearly) grown geeklings, and three demanding thunder pillows (a.k.a. cats).

 

 

 

More from Lindsay

The Fiction-Fixer’s Handbook:

A Guest Post by Emlyn DuLaine, the Newest Member of Novem XVII

I haven’t been a Novemite long, and if you want advice from an absolute expert, you’ll have to ask Captain Doyle or maybe Laramie, if you can manage to push your way past the cloud of ego that surrounds him at all times.

But I’ve been diving into upside-down classics, wrangling rogue characters, bridging broken plots, and saving story spheres long enough to give some helpful pointers on how to keep your wits about you when you, too, traverse the fantastical, fictional universes we all know and love.

Read on for my hard-won wisdom.

  1. Never accept apples from anyone. Ever. Even if they promise it’s organic and locally sourced. Just don’t.
  2. If a book starts whispering, close it immediately. This is not the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Cursed tomes are not to be trifled with.
  3. Stay away from unattended spinning wheels and mirrors that look a little too shiny. Exercise caution around wardrobe-shaped furniture. Odds are high you’re about to be enchanted, imprisoned, or transported. Stay vigilant.
  4. Beware of overly charming men in masks, hoods, and/or capes. It’s 50/50 on whether he’s a tragic hero or a villain with a vendetta. Proceed with caution.
  5. Always check the fine print on magical contracts. If the terms include “firstborn child” or an unspecified “favor” to be later named, run.
  6. Characters who break into song at random intervals are either harmless or extremely dangerous. If they’re just narrating their morning routine, you’re fine. If the music gets ominous, assume the worst.
  7. If you find yourself in the company of a talking animal sidekick, always ask for its backstory. Talking cats may be friend or foe, sometimes both if it starts telling riddles. Grumpy toads are probably cursed nobles. Overdramatic ravens are almost always bad news.
  8. When in doubt, follow the protagonist—but not too closely. The main character has plot armor. You do not.

If you’re hoping for a fairy-tale ending, these tips might get you there. Stay safe, friends. And happy sphere-diving!

Interview with the Author

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

Success to me is having the privilege of continuing to tell stories. As long as there are readers out there who are excited to join me on my next adventure, I get to keep creating them, dreaming up new story people and fictional universes. That’s success to me.

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

Camille is the one who touched my heart in a really special way. Through her, I got to explore sisterly bonds, and I wrote this book during a time when I was really missing my own sister. Through Emlyn and Camille’s relationship, I got to travel back in time to our childhood. I got to remember the longings of my little sister heart, and in The Restitching of Camille DuLaine, I got to give Camille her own big sister voice.

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

The whole thing! This stubborn book simply refused to be outlined. I knew where I wanted to go with it, but I usually like to have a solid roadmap in hand before I start drafting, and I simply couldn’t make my thoughts come together in that way this time. With my deadline fast approaching, I simply had to start writing without my usual detailed beat sheet or index cards. But somehow, it all came together.

4)What is your vacation spot?

My husband and I both travel quite a lot but rarely together! We are usually traveling for work. For Christmas, we got to take our first family vacation in six years, and we headed to Disneyland. Disney is one of those vacations where you kind of need a separate vacation to recover afterward, but it was so much fun. This was our first trip where our kids were (mostly) grown, and it was both completely different and entirely the same.

5)Describe your view as you’re sitting in your writing chair.
If I glance to my left, I’m looking out the big window in my bedroom. From here, I can see the back garden—fruit trees, planter boxes filled with veggies and herbs, trellises and bins covered in berry and grape vines, a hill speckled in flowers, and a walking path paved in flat gray stones. Beyond the back fence, across a narrow road, my neighbor’s field stretches. Sometimes there are cows, occasionally a horse or two, but usually it’s empty. Evergreens border the small farm property, and the crisp Pacific Northwest sky stretches over it all. Rain means life for the plants, so the gray days don’t bother me. But that sky is clear and blue more often than people would guess.

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, February 25

Simple Harvest Reads, February 26 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 27 (Spotlight)

Blogging With Carol, February 27

Artistic Nobody, February 28 (Author Interview)

Inspired by Fiction, March 1

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 2 (Spotlight)

Where Faith and Books Meet, March 3

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 4

Guild Master, March 5 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, March 6 (Spotlight)

Holly’s Book Corner, March 6

For the Love of Literature, March 7 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 8

Stories By Gina, March 9 (Spotlight)

Fiction Book Lover, March 10 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

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

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

https://gleam.io/iyeVn/the-restitching-of-camille-dulaine-celebration-tour-giveaway

Induction Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Induction (Prequel to The Agency Files)

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Release Date: November 10, 2023

Someone wants her dead. Not happening on his watch.

When Roman Simon goes missing, the small town of Fairbury burns with rumors hotter than the sidewalk in July. They’re certain he’s either left his wife, or she killed him (not that they’d blame her). As the weeks pass and the police fail to find answers, things heat up more when Anna Simon disappears, too. If that’s not strange enough, the chief of police orders his officers to leave Anna out of their investigation.

As a new recruit into a secret protection service known only as The Agency to the few who know it exists, Keith Auger doesn’t know what he’s doing, but he’s determined to do his new job well. But when he finds himself guarding a woman before he’s fully trained, he already begins to doubt the wisdom of this career path.

Pressure mounts as Keith tries to stay one step ahead of the men out to kill Anna and another step ahead of Anna who is determined to find answers no one will give her.

Keith can’t help but wonder: will his first assignment with The Agency be his last?
Induction is an introductory novel to The Agency Files.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

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

 

 

 

 

More from Chautona

Author Writing Woes: or How This Book Came to Be.

 

Way back in the dark ages of my writing career (you know, around 2009…ish), I had an idea for a couple. She was a plain woman in many ways—a good student.  He was the star quarterback for a college football team.  And one day, while goofing around with his teammates, he bumped into her and caused her to drop everything, ruining a library book.

She wasn’t happy.

Did several chapters follow with him trying to make it up to her?  Yep. Did she cave?

Eventually.  And a couple of years later, the day before their wedding, his mother begged him not to marry someone so dull and uninteresting.

But all this came out about a quarter of the way into the book.  The first chapter opened with her eating lunch with her husband, who ordered her least favorite dish because it’s good for her. Employees scowled, and the rumors of how awful he was to her flourished.

If only they knew. No one loved anyone more than Ramon Simon loved his Anna.  Abusive?  Never. Not even a hint, but no one in Fairbury would ever believe that.

But that was my problem.  That’s all I knew.  I called it “A Man and a Mouse” while waiting to find out what their story really was.

Twelve years later, I finally knew.

See, I had this character from one of my favorite series. The Agency Files is a suspense/romantic suspense series focusing on protecting people from “the bad guys” until law enforcement can round up those bad guys and it’s safe to go home.  They’ll do anything they have to in order to keep you safe—even kidnap you. The best of the best?  Keith Auger. And well… he wasn’t born an agent, was he?

I decided to write his “induction” into The Agency, and what better way to do it than to introduce him to Anna Simon?  Her husband is missing, and someone’s after her.  So, after a crazy ride at his job interview, and a few weeks of training, Anna is his first assignment. Keep her alive until those trying to kill her are caught.  But that’s when things get complicated.

The series has grown a lot since Justified Means released.  From that one book to last month’s exciting conclusion to this “branch” of the series with Take Cover, we’ve seen human trafficking, a drug running biker gang out to kill an ex-member who met Jesus, a crisis of faith combined with bioterrorism, a guy running for his life—he just doesn’t know why, an office manager gone rogue, an unemployed woman hiding out from “goons” in a Michigan castle, a traitor in the agency, and a bad guy who just might be the only one who can help them thwart a hostile takeover.

It’s been a bit of a wild ride for The Agency, but with the series “complete” (there will be spin-offs), it seemed like a perfect time to introduce folks to the series prequel, Induction.  All of the series books are available in print, on Kindle Unlimited, and as audiobooks (they’re even FREE on Christa DelSorbo’s YouTube channel!).

Happy reading!  And I apologize in advance for Flynne’s slang.  That girl!

Interview with the Author

  • What does success as an author look like to you?

Finishing a book that I believe God wanted me to write in the way that He wanted me to write it. People reading that book and being blessed by it. Earning enough while doing it that I can afford to keep doing it. Most of all, though, the quiet confidence that I’m right where the Lord wants me.

  • Which character did you connect to best in this book?

I really loved Anna and her quiet strength. She appears to be a nonentity, but she has her husband’s complete devotion and knows her worth regardless of what others may think of her. She’s one of the most feminine characters I’ve ever written and yet she doesn’t allow life to push her around. She sees what needs to be done and acts.

  • Which part of the book was the most difficult to write?

Definitely the opening scene. I wanted a tension-filled scene where if it could go wrong it did and yet where Keith refused to give in. He’s sort of a parallel to Anna in that he did not let what was happening override what he thought he should do.

  • What inspired this book?

I’ve always wanted to tell the story of how Keith joined The Agency, and when an opportunity arose to have a shorter novel in a collection of romantic suspense books, I realized it was the perfect time since the series (this arm of it anyway) was ending soon.
I also had begun writing Anna’s story a decade or more before and really wanted to finish it, so that combination seemed perfect.

  • What are you reading right now?

I’m just about to begin A Soul as Cold as Frost by Jennifer Kroph. The description sounds a lot like Narnia meets Hunger Games. We’ll see, but I’ve only heard GREAT things about it.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 21

Simple Harvest Reads, February 22 (Author Interview)

Roads to Everywhere, February 22

Blogging With Carol, February 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 24

Denise L. Barela, February 25 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 26

For Him and My Family, February 27

Guild Master, February 28 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, March 1 (Guest Review from Donna)

Holly’s Book Corner, March 2

Fiction Book Lover, March 3 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 3

Lots of Helpers, March 4

Just Your Average reviews, March 5

Giveaway

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

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

https://gleam.io/iQUgI/induction-celebration-tour-giveaway