About the Book

Book: Hunted on the Trail

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Suspense

Release date: December 24, 2024

A killer out for vengeance…

but this bloodhound has his scent.

Ambushed by sudden gunfire, former cop Stephanie Wolfe realizes the tracking competition she entered with her bloodhound is a setup. An escaped fugitive has lured her into the remote wilderness to exact his deadly revenge. And her ex-boyfriend, bounty hunter Vance Silverton, has fallen into the fatal trap, too. Now cut off from civilization with only minimal supplies and their two dogs, the pair must depend on each other to survive. But with a treacherous storm approaching, it’s not only a cold-blooded killer they’ll have to escape.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Hunted on The Trail  by Dana Mentink is the third book in the Security Hounds Investigation Series. It is a contemporary Romantic Suspense set in Northern California.  This book features K-9 Handler Stephanie Wolfe and her bloodhound Chole, along with her ex-boyfriend Vance Silverton. While this book can be read as a standalone I highly recommend the previous books in the series.

What I think about this book:

Dana Mentink always gives readers a unique and exciting adventure. In this book we follow Stephanie as she starts out on a three day tracking competition, however things go terribly wrong from the start.  Vance is one of the last people that Steph would choose to work with, but now they must trust each other. Chloe and Brutus/ Pudge were great additions to the story. My husband got an eye rolling laugh at all of the Marine quotes like ”I’m a Marine, Baby. We know stuff, we do things, and we never get cold.”   I really enjoyed this adventure. Mentink created an stunningly realistic book with characters that keep you hooked from the first page to the last. I can’t wait to see what happens next to the Wolfe family.

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 USA TODAY and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author. She’s written more than forty mystery and suspense novels for Love Inspired Suspense, and Poisoned Pen Press. Her debut novel with Revell releases in the summer of 2025. She is honored to have received two ACFW Carol Awards, a Holt Medallion Award, and a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award.

More from Dana

My life has gone to the dogs! No joke! While readers enjoy the Wolfe family humans, I hear on the regular that their favorite characters are the bloodhounds. In book #1, Wally was just an irrepressible disaster, and he continues his naughty ways throughout the series. In book #2, we met Pinkerton who is a model canine, unless squirrels enter the picture. And now, you’ll get to know Chloe who is fabulous, but I will venture to say she is going to be outshined by her mutt companion Brutus (you’ll have to read the book to discover his real name and identity!) As this book launches, I’m deep into writing the last two and there are a couple more unpredictable hounds you have yet to meet. Such fun! Thanks for galloping along with me on this series!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 3

She Lives to Read, December 3

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 4

Wishful Endings, December 5

An Author’s Take, December 5

Betti Mace, December 6

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 6

Texas Book-aholic, December 7

Devoted To Hope, December 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 8

Stories By Gina, December 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 9

The Avid Reader, December 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 10

Blogging With Carol, December 11

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

Simple Harvest Reads, December 12 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Kyliegh Reads, December 12

For Him and My Family, December 13

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 13

Blossoms and Blessings, December 14

Labor Not in Vain, December 14

Holly’s Book Corner, December 15

Pause for Tales, December 15

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 16

Lights in a Dark World, December 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $75 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/00adcf54108

About the Book

Book: The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle

Author: Daniel Petronelli

Genre: Religion & Spirituality, Holiday Celebration, Children’s Chapter Book, Inspirational, Action & Adventure

Release date: October, 2021

In the small foothill village of Shiloh on a stormy Christmas Eve, a group of children find themselves lost in a powerful storm. When a chance encounter with a kind stranger presents itself, their faith is put to the test as they discover the true meaning of Christmas, learn valuable life lessons, and experience the transformative power of just one tiny seed: The Seed of Faith.

This unforgettable, multi-award winning story will inspire readers of all ages to believe in miracles and the unwavering presence of God in their lives.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Dan Petronelli was born and raised in Brockton, Massachusetts. He currently divides his time with his wife between West Bridgewater, Massachusetts and Stuart, Florida.

He is a strong member of his local community and has served as a Christian worship leader where he led a large congregation in praise and worship songs, including two of his original songs: “ Walking in the Light” and “ Providence.”

Dan Petronelli participated in Smith’s Magazine’s Six-Word Memoir contest, and his memoir was selected and later published by HarperCollins.

Dan found a message in a bottle when he was a young boy tinkering on a rocky shoreline. It was a profound spiritual message that he has kept and still treasures today.

This inspired story was written as a cherished Christmas gift for his family, and it is his hope that the SEED OF FAITH will also bring joy and continue to grow in the hearts of readers around the world.

More from Daniel

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Visa gift certificate and 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/00adcf54109/

About the Book

Book: To Choose the Longshot

Author: Lisa M. Prysock

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: November 5, 2024

In a world where wealth and status reign, can true love prevail?

Miss Delia Lyndon, a young woman born into the prestigious Spencer-Lyndon family, is initially enamored with Thaddeus, the son of a prominent local stable owner, when he begins vying for her hand in marriage. She is keenly aware of how a union between the two families would seal their status as one of the most beloved couples from Lexington. However, when Jake, a handsome and charming newcomer, arrives on the scene, he catches her attention, casting doubts and fears in Delia’s heart. Torn between two suitors, Delia must navigate societal expectations, family pressure, and her own desires. Will she choose the man who seemingly has it all – wealth, charm, and a shared background in Kentucky’s elite circles – or will she follow her heart to the humble yet captivating Jake?

Jake Williams is determined to prove his worth in the competitive world of horse racing. Despite his humble beginnings as a farmer, he refuses to be intimidated by his rival’s malicious attempts to sabotage his chances, both on the racetrack and in winning Delia’s affections. With his trusted steed, Horizon, by his side, Jake faces each challenge head-on, guided by his unwavering faith.

When mysterious events begin occurring leading up to the annual Phoenix Stakes horse race, Delia must look beyond appearances and uncover the truth that lies beneath.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

To Choose the Longshot  by Lisa M Prysock is an Christian Historical Fiction. It is the second book in the Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age Series.  The book is set in 1903 Lexington, Kentucky and features Delany “Delia”  Lyndon, daughter of Racing Royalty.  While this book can be read as a standalone I recommend that you read the first book in the series before starting this as this does give spoilers.

What you might need to know:

Jake is raising his three nieces after they were orphaned .

What I think about this book:

This book starts with Delia fleeing the church before she goes through with her marriage to Lexington Socialite Thaddeus Sullivan.  The story then jumps to the spring of 1903 with Delia once again courting Thaddeus.  While Delia is a fun character I definitely started seeing red flags right away when it came to Thaddeus. It frustrated me that Delia did not see them, but that made the story all the more realistic .   I love the advice Aunt Mae gave Delia. “But what if I can’t hear the Lord’s voice in this matter?…. Well, then sing to Him,child. He inhibits the praises of His people.” I found this to be such a beautiful reminder.  Prysock wrote a wonderfully captivating story, I look forward to what happens next for the Lyndon family.

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

Lisa M. Prysock is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes both Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Christian Romance books—”Romance with a Dash of Food, Fashion, Faith, & Fun.” She writes both traditionally and indie published novels.

Kentucky inspires her writing and is home. Happily married to her husband of more than 24 years, she homeschooled two of their five children, now grown. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cross stitch, crochet, sew, scrapbook, read, swim, dance, take walks, travel, explore historical homes, garden, cook for her family, learn to play the piano and violin, and read great books.

More from Lisa

Hello Celebrate Lit Friends and Readers! I’m back to share a looksie at Book 2 from Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age. I’ve really enjoyed my deep dive into all things Kentucky Derby and the world of horseracing in To Choose the Longshot.

Most of us have heard of Churchill Downs and Lexington’s Keeneland. But before Keeneland was the Lexington Association Racetrack. The annual spring race generally opened each year on that course with a featured race known as the Phoenix Stakes. It dates as far back in history as 1831! You can take a peek at the fascinating horse names of all the winners from 1831 to 2012, here. Of course, I’ve fictionalized names of winners and many events around the races in my series, but it’s fun to peek at real-life history when crafting our stories.

Leading up to and through the Gilded Age, the time period and setting of this series, the Phoenix race was generally sponsored by the Phoenix Hotel in Lexington. And more than Kentucky horseracing history, in Book 2, readers will get to come along for a glimpse at another course located in Baltimore, Maryland when the story takes our main characters to Pimlico. They referred to this track as the Old Hilltop in the early days of American horseracing history.

And atop Pimlico sits the famed weathervane. Did you know that painting the Preakness Stakes weathervane is a grand Pimlico tradition dating to 1909? The vane style is unique, commissioned by the Maryland Jockey Club, bearing the shape of a thoroughbred and jockey ever since the original arrow-shaped one was struck down by lightning. The new vane was christened by the colors of the silks carried by that year’s winner, Effendi.

I had a great deal of fun writing To Choose the Longshot starting with the very first page. The novel opens with a runaway bride! It’s always a wonder what makes a bride runaway, and my imagination went to work at once creating the situation that causes this bride so much consternation.

Readers get to learn more about Veronica’s sister in Book 2, Miss Delaney Lyndon. Everyone calls the shy and demure middle sister, Delia. And all of Lexington expects one of the Lyndon sisters to marry into the Sullivan family, since these two families are “Kentucky horseracing royalty.” But who will Delia choose to marry? Will she marry her handsome, wealthy, and daring beau, Thaddeus Sullivan, or will a rugged newcomer and underdog in their midst from the Adirondacks, Jake Williams, turn her head?

I cannot fail to mention that the beloved character of Aunt Mae from Book 1 makes an appearance in Book 2. She certainly has her hands full attempting to help Delia reach a decision about who she should marry, knowing it will impact the future of Velvet Brooks Farm for generations to come. But if anyone can help steer Delia to a decision, it’s Aunt Mae. As our heroine grapples with perceptions and tries to balance expectations with what’s in her heart, find out what happens next with a deeper look at the world of horseracing, sure to give horse enthusiasts plenty to cheer about.

Happy reading!

Blessings!

Lisa

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 19

lakesdielivingsite, November 20

Holly’s Book Corner, November 20

For Him and My Family, November 21

Texas Book-aholic, November 22

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 24

Labor Not in Vain, November 25

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 27

Stories By Gina, November 28 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, November 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29

Books You Can Feel Good About, November 30

Simple Harvest Reads, December 1 (Guest Review from Donna)

Pause for Tales, December 2

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lisa 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/00adcf54102

About the Book

Book: Falling for a Smart Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 4)

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Contemporary Christian Cowboy Romance

Release date: June 25, 2024

She’s on a mission to bring orphaned children hope. He wants off his family’s ranch for good. Will they survive his shocking family secrets?

Devon Vargas longs to be more than just a cowboy. After finishing his teaching degree, he plans to leave his family’s guest ranch for good. Between his growing affection for the new children’s program director and a huge family secret revealed, he second guesses everything about his life.

Raina Crawford lost her parents at a young age. Through the grace of God, she survived life in the foster system. She desperately wants to bring children the life-changing faith that gave her hope. The job at Vargas Ranch was supposed to be a steppingstone. Except she’s losing her heart to the smart, ambitious cowboy bent on leaving his family’s ranch—and her—behind.

Will Raina finally find the family she’s always wanted? Will family secrets unravel his new dreams? Will those same secrets tear them apart?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

About the Author

Karen Baney is passionate about writing stories full of flawed characters. She enjoys weaving together stories of second chances, redemption, and overcoming personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, she loves researching the state’s history and finding ways to seamlessly incorporate real history and real settings into her novels. In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry.

Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. Both Jim and Karen are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

More from Karen

Big Family Drama

I love writing big family drama in my novels! It provides such great material for the relationship between characters.

Part of this comes from my family’s drama. My mom was the youngest of eight kids, making my extended family huge. I remember going to the Independence Day family reunions as a kid. It was both fun and a little intimidating. Most of my cousins were adults by the time I was a tweener. So, my siblings and I tended to hangout with my “oops!” cousin since we were only a few years apart.

And boy, did we have drama! There was the aunt who seemed to be offended and left early year. Someone always ended up injured, but only once do I remember an ambulance showing up. There were cliques and turf wars and so much more.

As an adult, though I’ve rarely been able to fly clear across the country to see my extended family, the drama of my husband’s big family serves as inspiration too. He is the oldest of five kids. My first introduction to his large family was at his sister’s wedding. I had no idea what I was getting into. We’d only been dating for about six weeks. Everyone kept pushing me to join the family photos, and I kept trying to gracefully get out of the pictures. I didn’t want him to regret having me in the pictures if we broke up. In the end, my hubby and I outlasted that marriage.

In Falling for a Smart Cowboy, I introduce a new character to the series, Raina Crawford. She was orphaned as a young girl and has longed for a forever family, even into adulthood. Devon Vargas, the fourth out of five sons, learns a family secret that makes him want to avoid his large family. I loved writing this juxtaposition between Raina and Devon over family relationships. It helps each of them see a new perspective. It was also fun writing new friendships for Raina—even if all the friendships tied to Devon’s family. My experience with both my family and being a newbie to my husband’s family provided inspiration for both Raina’s and Devon’s characters.

If you like big family drama, the Vargas Ranch Series provides it in spades. Enjoy!

Blog Stops

Stories By Gina, November 20 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, November 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 22

Guild Master, November 23 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, November 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 25

Denise L. Barela, November 26 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, November 27

Artistic Nobody, November 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Simple Harvest Reads, November 29

For Him and My Family, November 30

Fiction Book Lover, December 1 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 1

Labor Not in Vain, December 2

Back Porch Reads, December 3 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen 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/00adcf54103

About the Book

Book: Lethal Kings (The Fae Dynasty Book Two)

Author: Victoria McCombs

Genre: YA Fae Fantasy

Release date: November 12, 2024

You’ve been warned many times, you cannot trust the kings . . . The old queen is dead, a new queen is in play, and the realm has descended into darkness. For the first time in history, a queen has rejected the game. Eliza will start her reign with no alliances while Althea must fight to save her tenuous bond with the king who cannot love. Her relationship threatens to break, but Althea’s attention becomes divided after receiving a few harrowing clues connecting her past and the game at hand.

Before she can find answers, a mysterious fae appears promising the power of the seventh king to whoever can solve a series of riddles, leaving the fae realm in shambles as they race to come out on top. Althea has one year left. New alliances are forged. Old stories come to life. She must make her move, or the fate of the queens will consume her.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy

About the Author

Victoria McCombs is the author of The Storyteller Series, The Royal Rose Chronicles, and The Fae Dynasty duology, with hopefully many more to come. She survives on hazelnut coffee, 20-minute naps, and a healthy fear of her deadlines, all while raising four wildlings with her husband in Omaha, Nebraska.

More from Victoria

This book came differently to me than my other ones.

It was less plot and structure, and more—what kind of book do I want to write?

I wanted riddles for them to solve, which created the Gamemaster character. I wanted a healthy family aspect, which began the process of repairing the relationships I’d burned in book one. And I wanted a character who knew exactly what she wanted and never waivered from that. Other scenes came from these wishes, like the chess game where the players are the chess pieces, and the War of Hearts played in the labyrinth.

Together, I think it blended nicely, and I can’t wait for readers to get ahold of it!

Blog Stops

Inspired by Fiction, November 16

The Lofty Pages, November 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 17

Texas Book-aholic, November 18

Inklingsandnotions , November 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 20

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, November 21

Book Looks by Lisa, November 21

Wishful Endings, November 22

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 23

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, November 24

Blogging With Carol, November 25

Simple Harvest Reads, November 26 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, November 27

Fiction Book Lover, November 28 (Author Interview)

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Victoria is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card and a hardback 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/00adcf5499

About the Book

Book: A Calculated Betrothal

Author: Denise Weimer

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: November 12, 2024

A Patriot scout, a Loyalist widow, and a desperate fight to save what matters most.

The death of her titled husband means that not only is Tabitha Gage no longer a lady—but she’s also abandoned on an isolated Southern Georgia plantation on the eve of revolution. With the fine house and fields sold to a neighbor, she’s left with a log cabin on unsettled timber land. Rather than marry the neighbor’s son, Tabitha determines to make her own way—and never again be shackled to a man she doesn’t love.

Sergeant Edmond Lassiter is one assignment away from promotion when he comes to the aid of a red-haired beauty fending off cattle rustlers. Thrown together during an attack at a nearby fort, the Patriot scout and Loyalist widow are surprised by the values they share—including honesty, loyalty, and equality. When Edmond learns the same man who ruined his family is after what little Tabitha has left, he convinces her they should work together to make her land profitable—all while fighting off the British from East Florida and her greedy neighbor, who sabotages their every effort to succeed. Their work together will be a business arrangement…nothing more. But as a British invasion threatens, the truth soon becomes clear—continuing the connection between them will risk far more than their hearts.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

A Calculated Betrothal, a Christian Historical Fiction by Denise Weimer is the fifth book in The Scouts of the Georgia Frontier Series. Set in 1777 this book features Tabitha Scott, twin of Temperance who was featured in the last book. While the other books in the series can be read as a standalone, I would not recommend this book until you have read the previous book in the series,  A Conflicted Betrothal.

What you might need to know:

This book is set in Colonial America at a time that slavery was an accepted practice.

What I think about this book:

In the previous Book Tabitha was the twin who is loved to hate, however at the end of the book she redeemed herself. Life has been hard for Tabitha and she is a completely different  woman than she was. I enjoy getting to know her and Dulcie. I appreciated the strength and determination that she showed.  Edmond was an intriguing character. Seeing the war  and land from his prospective really enhanced the story.  I loved this series and look forward to more of the author’s books. I can’t wait to see what type of adventure she will take us on next time.

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

North Georgia native Denise Weimer has authored around twenty traditionally published novels and novellas–historical and contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and time slip. As a freelance editor and Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books, she’s helped other authors reach their publishing dreams. The mother of two wonderful young adult daughters, Denise always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.

More from Denise

There were only going to be four books in my Scouts of the Georgia Frontier Series. But have you ever had a character take over a story? That’s what happened for books four and five.

Temperance Scott, the shy but principled heroine of A Conflicted Betrothal who started her own Daughter of Liberty group during Savannah’s 1765 Stamp Act Protests, had a feisty twin sister named Tabitha. Tabitha kept marching all over the page in her bright silk gowns, making Temperance feel pale by comparison, jockeying to maintain her position as Daddy’s favorite, and plotting to steal Temperance’s beau. When that failed, she stole the end of the novel instead, saving her sister from authorities tracking down the spy who wrote the Townsman Letters that accused prominent Loyalists of supporting the Stamp Act. Then she wed her father’s choice for her, the much older Henry Gage, Lord Riley, and sailed away on his sloop to avoid punishment. As the book closed, Temperance got to marry her Royal Ranger-turned-Patriot, Ansel Adams, while Tabitha was left to an unknown fate in swampy South Georgia. I kept wondering whatever became of the Savannah belle down there with the snakes and gators.

When I learned that Fort Barrington on the Altamaha River changed hands several times during the American Revolution, becoming Fort Howe while under Patriot control, I had to write book five, A Calculated Betrothal. Fast forward ten years, and Tabitha is newly a widow. The intervening years have not been kind, as her husband marginalized her when it became clear she would not provide him with the heir he desired. Their finances have dwindled as he continually sent money to his wastrel brother-in-law in England. Upon his death, she discovers the fine rice plantation has been sold to their greedy neighbors, Loyalist father and son Hugh and Julian Jackson. Julian has an alternate plan in mind, but Tabitha has no intention of yoking herself to another man she doesn’t love—particularly a cruel slave owner and womanizer. She takes her maid-slash-best-friend Dulcie and flees to the cabin Dulcie’s husband occupies on the south side of the river. This land, at least, is still hers…even though it offers only undeveloped timberland and swampland, free range for the Spanish cattle Dulcie’s husband herds.

But there’s an enemy more dangerous than the snakes and gators, and maybe even than the Jacksons…the British-allied East Florida Rangers that raid into South Georgia—burning, stealing, and rustling cattle. A confrontation with their vengeful colonel puts Tabitha at the top of their list. With enemies all around, how will Tabitha establish her independence? Enter Fort Howe’s Sergeant Edmond Lassiter, a man determined to settle his own score with the Jacksons. He offers the help Tabitha needs, but with their hidden wounds and differing backgrounds, can they learn to trust each other enough to defeat their common enemies?

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 16

Pause for Tales, November 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 17

lakesidelivingsite, November 18

Allyson Jamison, November 18

Books You Can Feel Good About, November 19

Texas Book-aholic, November 20

Connie’s History Classroom, November 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 22

Simple Harvest Reads, November 23 (Guest Review from Donna)

Cover Lover Book Review, November 24

Book Looks by Lisa, November 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 26

For Him and My Family, November 27

Holly’s Book Corner, November 28

Blossoms and Blessings, November 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Denise 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/00adcf5498

About the Book

Book: The Wanderer Scorned

Author: Natasha Woodcraft

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release date: March, 2024

“It all started with the banishment. As soon as the truth was known about their disobedience, my parents were driven from the Garden planted for them by the LORD God, Yahweh Elohim. A garden pleasing to the eye and filled with every kind of food. Yet for them, it had not been enough.”

Kayin lives in the shadow of his parent’s expulsion from the Garden of Eden and its lingering cloud of shame. He believes in the Creator but struggles for affirmation. When suffering comes and sibling rivalry threatens, Kayin wrestles with God, grasping at shards of faith. But his cries drown in the noise of his own doubts and fears, until his youthful faith lies shattered, replaced by a twisted dance of pride and jealousy.

As Kayin spirals further, misunderstandings within the family dynamic dominate, and whispers of temptation slither through the cracks. Then a chance at redemption presents itself. With flames of forbidden love still raging hot, Kayin and his brother bring sacrifices to Yahweh.

No one foresees the resulting tragedy.

The Wanderer Scorned is the first instalment in The Wanderer Biblical fiction series, immersing readers in the world of Genesis 4. This exploration of the first murder brings the Bible to life in a fresh way, delving into the character of the Creator God and His earliest interactions with humankind.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Natasha Woodcraft lives in a slightly crumbling farmhouse in the UK with her family of boys and menagerie of animals. She holds an honours degree in Theology and believes stories have power to communicate deep truth and transform lives. Also a songwriter, Natasha peppers her emotional prose with poetry and song.

More from Natasha

Q & A with Natasha Woodcraft

• You’re an Author from the UK. Tell me more about that.

That’s right. I’m a Brit, which is great but has its challenges, like negotiating single quotation marks! There’s a massive lack of Christian fiction here. It’s not stocked in secular bookstores, there are few Christian bookstores left, and there aren’t many big conventions or publishers. I’m part of a team passionate about changing the landscape. We offer support services to authors and publishing services. Please pray for us and our country, and support British writers if you can.

• Who do you share your home with?

My husband, Ben, and four sons ranging from 15 to 7. Plus a dog, 2 cats, 3 goats, 9 chickens and 16 quail (though they don’t all live in the house.) It can get a little crazy…

• Sounds like it. How do you find time to write?

Good question. My mornings are usually taken up with feeding/cleaning kids and animals. My afternoons with working for the family business or publishing house. Before tea, I’ll be out picking vegetables and pulling weeds – we try to grow as much as we can ourselves. Writing gets squeezed into late nights, early mornings and quieter days. It’s my downtime and my favorite time spent with Jesus.

• You write Bible-based fiction. What specifically?

The Wanderer Series is based on the story of Cain & Abel in Genesis 4. It came about because I woke up one morning wondering what prompted the first murder (no kidding; my brain is weird.) I’d been pondering Jesus’ words about murder and anger in the Sermon on the Mount and praying about what I should write for a while. Suddenly, I knew it had to be a reimagining of Cain’s story – from his perspective.

• Hang on. From Cain’s perspective?

Yeah. Though there’s certainly a place for them, I personally dislike stories that are too simplistic. Where bad guys are really bad and good guys are really good – that kind of thing. The Bible teaches us that we all need grace (especially me), and as regards Cain – I don’t think he was much different to any of us. Writing from his perspective gave me opportunity to spend a lot of time in the Word of God, exploring Cain’s slide into sin in a way that challenged me to examine my own heart.

• That’s some heavy stuff. Did you have any background that helped you tackle this story?

Sure. I have a degree in Theology, and I’ve also studied English Literature and Creative writing. Mostly though, it was a case of leaning heavily into what God wanted to teach me through this book and hoping some of that resonated with my readers. The reviews so far say it has!

• What would you say to those questioning whether Bible-based fiction is right for them?

I totally understand the fear surrounding this genre. I felt it myself when I started writing and that was something I had to take to God and trust Him with. “Is it even ok to write these stories?” I asked.

Essentially though, it isn’t much different to a sermon. It’s exegesis and expansion of the scripture, just presented differently: in fiction rather than non-fiction. I’ve researched, covered my writing in prayer, and had pastors check my work. I’m super careful about handling scripture faithfully but state where the story comes from my imagination. It isn’t intended to replace the Bible. Quite the opposite – I hope it will inspire people to pick the Bible up. I even include an appendix that explains decisions I made, and study questions, at the back.

My hope and prayer is that Jesus will be glorified as lives are touched by this ancient story reimagined. If you’re still not sure, why not give The Wanderer Scorned a go? You don’t know until you try…

Interview with the Author

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

I write my books for the Kingdom of God, to inspire people to engage more deeply with God’s word. Success is my readers doing that and growing closer to Jesus.

2)What inspired this book?

As a mum of four boys, I find stories easier to engage with than non-fiction texts, especially when my brain is sleepy. Jesus is the master storyteller, and He proves that stories have power to transform lives! So, although I trained in theology and assumed would write non-fiction, God challenged me to consider fiction as a means of teaching the Bible.

I prayed about what to write for a while before I woke up one morning convinced that I should tackle Cain & Abel, from Cain’s perspective. I think my initial response was, “Really, God? He’s the bad guy!” but what God laid on my heart was that Cain was representative of the human condition, and “There but for the grace of God, go I.” That’s what this book is all about.

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

Presenting Kayin (Cain) as a character that people could relate to and engage with, even though we know the outcome of his story. It was hard to write, and it’s been even harder to convince people they want to read it! But everyone who does comes away challenged and inspired, which is amazing. It was worth the battle!

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

A verse my Mama gave me when I was little: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, Rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)”. It amazes me that Paul wrote this from prison. Whatever my chains, He is always worthy of my praise.

5)What is your vacation spot?

I haven’t left Britain for many years (so it’s usually mountains in the rain) but I love going places that are a bit warmer and going on cultural excursions. My last trip was to Rome eleven years ago, and I loved it.

Blog Stops

A Reader’s Brain, November 13 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, November 13

Back Porch Reads, November 14 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 15

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 16 (Author Interview)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 18

Fiction Book Lover, November 19 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, November 20 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, November 21 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, November 21

Guild Master, November 22 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, November 23 (Author Interview)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, November 24 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, November 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 26

Giveaway

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5496

About the Book

Book: Chase Your Dreams West: A Ginne West Adventure (Book 5)

Authors:Monique Bucheger and G. L. Rasmussen

Genre:Contemporary Upper Middle -Grade

Release date: November 22, 2024

12-year-old best friends, Ginnie West and Tillie Taylor, navigate changes in their family. Tillie’s long-absent birth father reappears and she has to juggle two dads while Ginnie’s mischievous Uncle Jake escalates their prank war. Meanwhile, Tillie desperately wants a horse of her own while Ginnie is determined to follow her late mother’s equestrian legacy as a trick rider, something her dad has forbidden.

Can Ginnie shape her own destiny and persuade her dad to support her ambitions? Get ready for a heartwarming adventure filled with friendship, family, and the power of chasing your dreams!

Click here to get your copy!

About the Authors

Monique is a bestselling author, a certified Farland Fiction Coach, and an empowerment speaker, dedicated to championing the underdog, in both her writing and real-life adventures.

Having a heart for families in crisis, Monique creates stories that capture the essence of real-life challenges and triumphs, with a touch of humor.

Monique’s upper middle-grade series, ‘The Ginnie West Adventures,’ delves into sensitive and weighty themes such as parental loss, abandonment, and overcoming abuse. She delivers stories not only for tween readers, but for those young at heart.

Drawing from her experiences nurturing a dozen of her own children and fostering over a hundred more, Monique’s experiences shape her books, creating novels in a number of genres, including a historical family saga, contemporary family dramas, a fun picture book, and a middle grade series weaving whimsy and heart into her tales.

A country boy by birth and by choice, Gary spent his youth working on the family farm, for local farmers and ranchers, on horseback or playing sports. Offered scholarships in Agriculture and Advertising Design, he opted for the bright lights and big city. Eight years in the advertising field convinced him that wasn’t where he wanted to be.

Gary freelanced in design and illustration, converted his love of writing for advertising to a newspaper column about the country lifestyle. He has also worked as a ranch manager, cowboy, rancher, and horse trainer. An avid painter and author, Gary shares  his talents through mentoring others, is a past president of the Western Art Guild and Idaho Writers League and is an active member of Western Writers of America.

Gary and his wife, Margie are the parents of four children and ten grandchildren and have traveled extensively throughout Europe, Great Britain and the United States.

More from Monique

Chase Your Dreams West: A Ginnie West Adventure took me too long to finish. I was working on it when one of my sons was killed in a car accident. I paused writing for a few years as our family adjusted to losing Ryan.

An author friend invited me to a writer’s retreat a few years ago, knowing I was stuck and that week unlocked a lot of things for me. Including deciding to change where I placed what is now the first four chapters. I wrote them two books ago thinking they would make a great denouement, but after my son’s death, I realized they would make a better beginning.

This book is a little different from the first four as Ginnie explores horsemanship training with her mare, Calliope–with her dad’s blessing, and perhaps is given a little help from her mom. Ginnie is given back one of her mom’s journals and gets to know the mom she doesn’t really remember and her dad didn’t really talk about… until recently.

Interview with the Author

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

MB: When my stories or books make a positive impact on my readers. Several have shared how one or more of my books helped them while going through a hard time or gave them courage, or made them laugh when they needed a win. Those experiences remind me why I write–because I do want to bring light into people’s lives, one story at a time–like so may authors have done for me over the years.

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

MB: Ginnie and I have been together for longer than I’d like to admit. 🙂 She started out as sort of an imaginary friend and we have shared many adventures. When I was younger –she helped me be brave. Now that I am quite a bit older than she is, I still enjoy her insight–she’s not one to allow fear to keep her from trying new things and I love her enthusiasm.

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

MB: Chapters 2-4 were written a few books ago. They weren’t hard to write, in fact, I believe they were inspired. However, sometimes they are hard to read. I often tear up (as do my readers), because losing someone you love is hard. Shortly after I decided that these chapters belonged in this book, Chase Your Dreams West: A Ginnie West Adventure, my 20-year-old son, Ryan, died in a car accident. I chose to stop writing for a while as my family adjusted to the loss of Ryan, but I always knew I would keep writing Ginnie and her family’s stories. I’m glad I did, because Chase Your Dreams West is about overcoming hard times, finding joy in the journey of your life, and realizing that even when okay doesn’t look or feel like you think it should, being okay (again) is possible.

4)What inspired this book?

MB: Originally I had decided to use chapters 2-4 as a denouement to this book. But after my son died, on occasion, I would feel him nearby and the thought of him checking in on our family brought me comfort. My original idea had been to write this book differently, but when I got to the point where I could write again, I decided to fully embrace Queenie West (Ginnie’s mother who passed away when she was 3.) the way I know Queenie would want to be written. In so doing, I hope to bring comfort and peace to my readers who have lost someone close to them.

5)Which author influenced you the most?

MB: Many authors have influenced me at different times of my life. As a kid, I read all of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books and read articles on where she lived and anything else I could find about her. Her daughter, Rose Wilder Lane, and I share a birthday. I tended to read every book I could find by certain authors: Louisa May Alcott, Katherine Paterson (who I met recently in real life–she wrote Bridge To Terabithia and The Family Tree among over 3 dozen others.) I loved Madeleine L’Engle and Erma Bombeck and a host of other authors. While I enjoyed reading a lot of fantasy as a teen, when I started writing,

I found I enjoyed writing contemporary books with humor, probably because of Erma Bombeck and Theresa Bloomingdale–who were women who enjoyed being mothers and found that humor made the harder parts of motherhood more enjoyable. I have 12 kids and fostered over 100 kids–having a sense of humor is a must.

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

GL: My grandfather had a cast iron hand pump painted red in front of his house that was his only source of drinking water. Next to it sat a ceramic pitcher and hand painted sign that read: “Always leave enough for the next one to prime the pump.” The older I get the more I’m inspired by its eternal implications.

7)What is your vacation spot?

GL: The deck on my house.

8)What are you reading right now?

GL: Just finished 1356 by Bernard Cornwell, True Horsemanship Through Feel by Bill Dorrance, Hatchet for the 4th time and Long Winding Trails.

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

GL: I’m surrounded by my paintings, finished and WIP and a picture window looking out onto the desert and the horse corrals.

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

GL: A sketch book so I could record the present instead of live in the past.

Blog Stops

Artistic Nobody, November 18 (Author Interview)

Life on Chickadee Lane, November 19

Simple Harvest Reads, November 20 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, November 21 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 21

Fiction Book Lover, November 22 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, November 23

Stories By Gina, November 24 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 25

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 26 (Author Interview)

Library lady’s Kid Lit, November 27

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, November 28 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 29

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

For Him and My Family, December 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Monique is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and an eBook 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/00adcf54101

About the Book

Book: Unassailable

Author:K.J. Rowe

Genre: Teen/Young Adult

Release date: June 18, 2024

To be picture perfect on the outside can cause people to think you have it all together on the inside. Which is exactly the case for Hope Meyer.

Stuck in a dead-end job with no vision for her future, parents arguing at home and newly-single under terms she bitterly objects to, Hope puts on a brave front in the face of friends. Only, she’s not as subtle as she thinks. Called out on her pretense by a close friend and, drawn into a mission project that causes her to question everything she’s been led to believe, Hope finds herself floundering.

Until recently, the perfect hair, manicured nails, a wardrobe straight out of a fashion magazine and a handsome suitor by her side had defined her. Now seeing those things as insignificant, and understanding why her boyfriend left, Hope turns to her youth minister for help; with one burning question in mind:

Who was she?

Set on a path of self-discovery, Hope finds her day to day both unraveling and piecing together like a jigsaw as her perception begins to alter.

Will she embrace how God defines her and ultimately learn what true happiness is?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Since I could hold a pencil, I’ve be writing.

In primary school, I wrote stories about my pets, my own version of princess stories, a classroom crush…

In high school, I wrote stories about horses, adventures, my sister…

However, as strong as the writing hobby was, I still pursued a career in Veterinary Nursing.

It wasn’t until God intervened and moved me out of the city and into a small country town to be a farmer’s wife, that he resurfaced the writing desire – and gave me the stories. So was born my debut series, each book holding a part of my own testimony, Casts of Silver.

It is my prayer that you enjoy the journey these stories take you on, and that they challenge, encourage and inspire you.

More from K.J.

Hey! Thanks for stopping by!

Casts of Silver is my debut five book series. The series is centered around five youth group leaders, with the stories looking at very real circumstances that young people face in today’s world without sugar coating consequences of individual actions.

However, God is always at work.

But where is He when problems arise?

Well, He is always closer than you think and He’s always working for your good!

Enjoy.
God Bless

Interview with the Author

1)Which part of the book was the most difficult to write?
I found most of the book difficult to write actually. The themes within needed to be handled with care but, the standard God calls His children to, needed to be brought across. Unassailable certainly
went through many, many alterations to end up as the finished story that is now available for all to read.

2)What inspired this book?
Personal experience – as in all of the books in my Casts of Silver series. Each book holds a part of my own testimony. It is my prayer that I can help others through the written word, so that they can
learn from mistakes I’ve made, or can learn from lessons that I’ve learnt.

3)Which author influenced the you most?
Francine Rivers. I picked up her Mark of the Lion series from my High School library when I was 12/13 years old. It impacted me in so many ways that I have read that book series innumerable times. It was then I realised how deeply a book can influence its reader.

4)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?
This is a hard question. There are so many! However, I believe the one that sits just a whisker above all others is Philippians 4:6-7. That verse, even though I knew it well, hit me like a tonne of bricks when I was going through a very dark time. And truly, the peace of God that surpasses all understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.

5)What is your vacation spot?
I am a mountains girl. I love being out in nature with the fresh air and bird song all around me. When I can I like to get away for a walk or camp out in the nearby mountain ranges called The Grampians.

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, November 5

Artistic Nobody, November 6 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 7

Fiction Book Lover, November 8 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, November 9

Guild Master, November 10 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 11

Back Porch Reads, November 12 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 13

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 14 (Author Interview)

Stories By Gina, November 15 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, November 16 (Author Interview)

Karen Baney Reviews, November 16

Pause for Tales, November 17

Vicky Sluiter, November 18 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, K.J. 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/00adcf5487