Wagons West Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Wagons West

Author: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Historical Christian Romance

Release date: November 22, 2022

In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.

Besides the God-fearing, decent folks seeking new beginnings, adventurers, miners, risk-takers, fugitives, perverts, and runaways alike—even royals—comprise a few of the characters in book one of the ‘New Beginnings Family Saga’ titled WAGONS WEST. The two-thousand-mile journey is wrought with danger, trials, troubles and tragedies, deprivations, and of course, romance, but the lure of gold and a fresh start urges the sojourners on to the Promised Land!

Blaire Beechy, a widow with two almost grown daughters, Adeline and Beatrice, and a twelve-year-old son Tucker sells everything to go for the gold only to discover the rules of wagon master Ambrose Lee forbids them to join his wagon train, but the widow is determined. Though the disgruntled and handsome widow turns his head, the man deals with troubles of his own. His train isn’t full, he has yet to hire a scout, and his integrity thrusts him into saving a troubled young woman called Birdie. The journey is an arduous undertaking, but he’s done it before and is up to the task.
Wagon Ho!

This story was first published in episodes at Kindle Vella, Season One, by the same name. Season two SETTLERS & TOFFS continues the story and episodes are now being published and are available at Kindle Vella.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

About the Author

Award-winning author Caryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory, and her best-selling stories—over sixty published now—delight readers around the world. The prolific writer also enjoys singing the new songs the Lord gives her; you may listen to a few on YouTube. Sharing four children and twenty-four grandsugars (six are greats), Caryl and her high-school-sweetheart-husband of fifty-four years Ron live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas. The McAdoos wait expectantly for God to open the next door.

More from Caryl

What a fun, new adventure writing WAGONS WEST! Ron and I stepped up to try a new program Amazon offered authors called Kindle Vella where we’d write episodes rather than chapters. In a year’s time, WAGONS WEST had thirty-five episodes and was over one hundred thousand words, about four hundred pages.

We continue to write Season Two of the “New Beginnings Family Saga” SETTLERS & TOFFS, with the same characters going into the following year, 1850, scattering into three settings: those from Season One’s wagon train who decide to settle Auburn, California, those just starting the sojourn west with Emmerson Pierce, scout in Season One, now wagon master, and we sail the Atlantic to England when the son of the Earl of Farnsworth receives word of his older brother’s death.

The characters in WAGONS WEST made it so special for me, and I believe you’re sure to love them as well. Robert E. Lee’s older brother Ambrose is our wagon master and the story’s main hero. As all my heroes (thanks to Ron’s part of our collaboration) he is strong but flawed.

Our matriarchal heroine Blaire Beechy, recently widowed, has sold everything and uprooted her three children—two almost grown daughters Adeline and Beatrice and their twelve-year-old brother Tucker—only to discover Captain Lee’s idiotic rules forbid an unmarried woman from traveling in his wagon train. Why must there be a man at the head of each family?

WAGONS WEST offers readers adventures with a colorful cast of characters who support, cause trouble, act a bit crazy, and play ball to make the story one you just can’t put down. All along the way, God is questioned, given praise, denied, and surrendered to, saving sojourners again and again—not only in the spiritual realm.

It’s a story I’ve certainly enjoyed writing, and I’m hoping you’ll enjoy reading WAGONS WEST as much!

As always, I’m ‘Praying my story gives God glory!’ Hallelujah! There is no one like Him! He alone is the Great King over all the earth! Not a man that He could lie, but worthy to receive all glory and all praise!

Blessings, y’all!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 19

Texas Book-aholic, January 20

deb’s Book Review, January 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 22

Books You Can Feel Good About, January 22

Cover Lover Book Review, January 23

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 24

Connie’s History Classroom, January 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 27

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 28

Simple Harvest Reads, January 29 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and my Family, January 30

Pause for Tales, January 31

Guild Master, February 1 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Book Reviews, February 1

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/23bc3/wagons-west-celebration-tour-giveaway

Refining Josie Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Refining Josie

Author: Carolyn Miller

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: December 6, 2022

What’ll it take for the prodigal daughter to share her deepest secrets… and her heart?

Josephine Green returns to the islands in an attempt to reconcile with her family, but with a cloud over the family business, and little in the way of gardening skills, Josie’s painful past and flaky ways prove less than endearing for Greener Gardens’ hardworking crew.

Stuck without any other options, Josie is forced to accept her sister’s offer of a job that takes her to Breakers Head where she encounters Aussie teacher, Lachlan Jones.

A long-lost relative might’ve brought Lachie to a tiny music recording studio on the Independence Islands, but it’s also brought questions about how to care for someone he barely knows, especially considering he’s the last family she has. Questions regarding his future soon pale when he encounters the vibrant-haired Josie, whose sass and attitude takes some getting used to.

Neither imagined more until they began to bond over music and environmental causes. Both discover that first impressions need not be lasting ones.

But with the future of Gardens Gardens looking shaky, and Josie’s faith and self-worth just as tenuous, can deepening a friendship into something more ever work? And what happens when Lachlan’s work means he has to return to Australia after Christmas? What’ll it take for two hearts to heal and make a future possible?

This Breakers Head novel is Carolyn Miller’s final book in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Refining Josie by Carolyn Miller is part of the Independence Island Series and the sixth book set on Breakers and the final book in the series. The series is contemporary Christian fiction set on a fictional Island chain off the coast of Georgia, USA. This book does give updates on characters in previous books so for fullest enjoyment I would not recommend that you start with this book.

What you might need to know:

This book does touch on rape, Predator grooming, abortion and the emotional effects that they leave.

What I think about this book:

I am not ready for this series to be over, I have enjoyed getting to know the characters and seeing them grow. This book was a hard book for me to read as the main female lead Josie has a lot of tough stuff in her past that needed to be dealt with before you could understand her anger and reactions. Lachlan was a very interesting character. I enjoyed his character and his honest reactions to Josie’s attitude. I appreciate how Miller portrayed forgiveness and God’s grace. I look forward to more of her works.

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

Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. Together with her husband she has pastored a church for ten years, and worked as a public high school English and Learning and Support teacher. She loves reading, music, films, gardens, art, travel and international food, and really enjoy creating worlds where flawed people can grow in faith, hope and love.
A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English Literature, and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives.

Her novels include The Elusive Miss Ellison, The Captivating Lady Charlotte, The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey, Winning Miss Winthrop, Miss Serena’s Secret, The Making of Mrs. Hale, A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh, and Underestimating Miss Cecilia, all available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, Koorong, etc

More from Carolyn

Wow! Well, here we are celebrating the release of Refining Josie, my final book and THE final book in the Independence Islands series. It’s been a journey, hasn’t it? Six authors, five islands, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

As a long-time lover of gardens, plants, flowers and trees, it’s been so fun showcasing various parts of what life could be like as someone working in the gardening industry on these islands. I’m married to a horticulturalist, who once upon a time worked at Lyme Park, which was showcased in the 1995 production of Pride and Prejudice. He has also worked at Kew Gardens in England, and it was fun to use some of his experience in these books. (You can see some of my pics on Instagram and on my website)

For Refining Josie I was glad to finally round out some of the family challenges Samantha Green and her family’s ‘Greener Gardens’ business have had to deal with along the way, and to give Josie Green her own voice. This is a story about a prodigal daughter, and some of the ‘why’ behind the behavior, factors I think readers will relate and respond to well.

As an Aussie, I was also happy to include an Aussie hero, someone with some challenges of his own, so I hope you enjoy getting a tiny taste of a Hugh Jackman-esque hero.

Come visit the Independence Islands once more, and enjoy Refining Josie, a story of heart, hope, humor and a dash of Christmas romance.

Happy reading!

Carolyn

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, January 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14

Blossoms and Blessings, January 14

Texas Book-aholic, January 15

deb’s Book Review, January 16

Sylvan Musings, January 16

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 17

Aryn the Libraryan, January 18

Daysong Reflections, January 18

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 19

Blogging With Carol, January 20

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 20

She Lives To Read, January 21

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 22

For Him and My Family, January 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 23

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 24

Lis Loves Reading, January 25

Simple Harvest Reads, January 26 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Holly’s Book Corner, January 26

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carolyn is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/23a10/refining-josie-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Heir’s Predicament Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Heir’s Predicament

Author: Lorri Dudley

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: January 10, 2023

He controls the answers to her past and future, but she threatens his inheritance and his heart.

Maggie Prescott may not know her real name, the circumstances of her birth, or her father’s identity, but based on a song her shipwrecked birthmother taught her before she died, Maggie’s certain the answers lie on the island of Antigua. Unbeknownst to her beloved adopted family, she sends her maid to finishing school in her stead and convinces her uncle, Captain Anthony Middleton, to sail her to the Leeward Islands. Time is of the essence to discover her heritage before the next family gathering exposes her duplicity.

Lord Samuel Fredrick Harcourt Granville was groomed to inherit the Cardon title and lands, but the possession of his father’s temper has put Samuel’s future in jeopardy. After discovering his fiancée cavorting with his so-called friend, the ensuing altercation lands Samuel in court before of the House of Lords. As an example, for all aristocratic sons to quell their hedonistic living, the House of Lords banishes Samuel to the island of Antigua until he can prove he’s worthy of his privileged birth.

On the island, Samuel works to rein in his temper and revive a dying sugar plantation. Still, his return to England and all his efforts are threatened when a mysterious woman breaks into his island home, claiming to be the true heiress of the sugar plantation. Guilt, resentment, and fresh yearnings sizzle under the island sun as Maggie’s search uncovers a much greater treasure than either of them expected.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

The Heir’s Predicament by Lorri Dudley is the sixth and final book in the Leeward Island Series. This book features Maggie Prescott, the young girl who was found Shipwrecked in The Captain’s Quest. I do not recommend that you start the series with this book as it gives updates on the characters from previous books in the series, however I highly recommend that you RUN to start the series, you will not be disappointed!

What you might want to know:

This is set when slavery was still an accepted practice on the sugar plantations. The story does not focus on it but it does touch on it.

What I think about this book:

Maggie captivated me from the moment we met her so I was very excited to get more of her story! It is hard to imagine a little girl of unknown origins trying to find her place among The Ton, however her strength that allowed her to survive alone on a deserted island will not allow her to accept society’s judgment without a fight. Samuel was sent to Antigua as a punishment for his temper, but his time there ends up teaching him more than he ever imagined. I LOVED this story, it was a wonderful adventure with mysteries, danger and the search for truth. While I hate to see the series come to an end this book was everything that I wanted and so much more. I look forward to more adventures with Dudley in the future.

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

Lorri Dudley has been a finalist in numerous writing contests and has a master’s degree in Psychology. She lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household. Find her online at www.lorridudley.com.

More from Lorri

Maggie first appeared in The Captain’s Quest as the feral child shipwrecked on a deserted island. Readers fell in love with her character and emailed me, hoping to learn more of her story. It didn’t take much coaxing for my imagination to delve into how a child, who’d lived outdoors and struggled with daily survival, would adapt to Regency England’s intricate social conventions of the le bon ton as a grown woman.

Like Maggie, my grandfather and mother-in-law were both adopted. Each felt a disconnection from their roots and a natural yearning to fill a void by learning their origins. The thriving industry of Ancestry.com and 23-and-Me exists due to this pervasive desire to understand one’s background. Understandably, Maggie longs for answers, but the guilt of being disloyal to the family who accepted her into their loving home temps her to fabricate a lie and cover up her journey to the island of Antigua.

Another driving force for Maggie is that in Regency England, questionable heritage could hinder an adopted child from marrying within the upper social ranks. Unknown lineage could taint noble bloodlines, and many aristocrats wouldn’t dare align their families with someone of uncertain origins. Maggie’s marriage prospects would have been limited unless she uncovered her past. She’d have been considered too risky to wed among the gentry but raised too highborn to marry within the lower classes.

The Heir’s Predicament is the last installment of the Leeward Island series, and I will miss immersing myself in the rich cultural history of the Caribbean. I loved exploring different isles and island-hopping with readers through various settings. The island of Antigua, where The Heir’s Predicament is set, boasts of ninety-five miles of scalloped coastlines, white and pink sand beaches, a tropical but arid climate, windmills and plantations, and a sugar and spice history complete with Caribs and pirates. Island tensions create a lively setting and weave their way into the characters’ stories, for instance, the push and pull between the island’s calming beauty and battering storms, water abounding but not much of it drinkable, a laid-back culture of hearty survivors, and a legacy of slavery versus colonization.

The journey, however, isn’t over, my next series will take place in the rolling hills and quaint towns of England’s Cotswold, but there’s hope of a Windward Island series in the future.

To learn more, check out my website at lorridudley.com, or watch The Heir’s Predicament book trailer by clicking here: The Heir’s Predicament book trailer.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 11

lakesidelivingsite, January 11

Book Looks by Lisa, January 12

Sylvan Musing, January 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 13

She Lives To Read, January 14

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, January 14

Cover Lover Book Review, January 15

deb’s Book Review, January 15

Texas Book-aholic, January 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 17

Betti Mace, January 18

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 18

Connie’s History Classroom, January 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 20

Holly’s Book Corner, January 20

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 21

Life of Literature, January 22

Simple Harvest Reads, January 22 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, January 23

To Everything There Is A Season, January 23

Pause for Tales, January 24

Mary Hake, January 24

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/23a0e/the-heir-s-predicament-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Letter Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Letter

Author: Edwina Kiernan

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: November 1, 2022

She wants a new life.

He’s in danger of losing his.

Will love solve everything — or immerse them in even worse peril?

Restless and ready for a change, Grace Stratton gladly accepts the opportunity to leave her remote parsonage home to serve as a wealthy spinster’s companion in the idyllic country town of Lindenfell. Its warm atmosphere and friendly inhabitants sooth Grace’s lonely heart. But when a mysterious stranger arrives, she soon discovers things aren’t always what they seem.

Convinced chloroform will revolutionise the medical world, Dr. David Carbury frequently administers it to his London patients — until one of them dies. Facing a grave trial to prove his innocence and defend a drug most people view as poisonous, he makes hasty plans to buy time to bolster his case. But he wasn’t expecting to face an even deadlier challenge.

As attraction sparks not long after they meet, Grace soon suspects he’s hiding something, and David knows he can’t run from the truth forever.

But neither of them could imagine the sinister threat lurking just around the corner…

Immersed in faith and intrigue, this Christian Victorian romance from award-winning author Edwina Kiernan will encourage and delight you long after you turn the last page.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:
The Letter by Edwina Kiernan is a Christian Historical Fiction The first book in the Victorian Virtues series. It is set in 1848 England. It follows Preacher’s Daughter Grace Stratton as she tries to find her way in the world away from the Shadow her Family’s past. It also features Dr. David Carbury as he fights for his life after he loses a patient while using a revolutionary drug Chloroform.

What you might need to know:
Grace’s Parents were featured in a previous book by Kiernan, Ruby’s Redemption
Her Mother was forced to work in a brothel.

What I think about this book:
For the first few chapters of the book I felt like I had been dropped into the middle of a story, however when I stuck with the story it started making sense. I really enjoy this story. Grace wanted a life away from the shadow of her mother’s past. I appreciate that as I feel like most people have at least one time in their life in which they wish they could start over. David is sure that he did nothing to cause the death of his patient, however he needs time to prove his case which causes him to take steps to protect himself even though it causes hurt to others he cares about. I particularly love how the author shows God’s love throughout the story. I love when Isaac tells David that “He is not some sort of genie” , how many times are Christians tempted to pray to God as if He were a genie to grant our wishes! I also love how the author showed that sometimes God allows us to go through trials as “Because, I must do what is best for them.” I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read more by Kiernan.

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Edwina Kiernan is the Christian author of the award-winning novel, Ruby’s Redemption.

An enthusiast of classic novels and history, Edwina combines her faith, imagination and research to create hope-infused tales set in times past.

A lifelong word admirer, with Welsh and Irish heritage, she started writing stories early in childhood.

She is a committed follower of Jesus (the Living Word), and endeavours to use her pen to point others to Him.

More from Edwina

Have you ever wished you could travel back in time to a place where quaint buildings are bathed with a golden glow in the afternoon light, where the people are polite and respectful, and where the pace of living allows your soul to breathe and just… be?

In that case…

Welcome to Lindenfell!

The Letter introduces us to Grace Stratton (daughter of the hero & heroine from my award-winning novel, Ruby’s Redemption), who accepts a position as a lady’s companion in a place she’s never been before, but where she’ll soon discover a whole new world.

“The air in Lindenfell had a scent of its own — one of warmth and peace. Of hope.”

Lord-willing, the Victorian Virtues series will have nine books, each based on an aspect of the Fruit of the Spirit, and each exploring the historical events and everyday realities that change and challenge eighteen main characters and nine blossoming romances.

Friends and foes, tragedies and triumphs, hopes and heartaches — the best and worst of life, all in one fictional market town in Victorian England.

It is my deepest hope that, as you travel to Lindenfell in each book of the series, you’ll find the truth and hope you need to navigate your own trials and triumphs, and discover that the refreshment your soul longs for is already available to you, wherever you may be.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 14

Simple Harvest Reads, January 14 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Blogging With Carol, January 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 16

For Him and My Family, January 17

Cover Lover Book Review, January 17

Texas Book-aholic, January 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 19

Holly’s Book Corner, January 20

deb’s Book Review, January 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 22

Mary Hake, January 23

Connie’s History Classroom, January 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 24

Melissa’s Bookshelf, January 25

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 26

Pause for Tales, January 26

Book looks by Lisa, January 27

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Edwina is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of The Letter and a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/23a11/the-letter-celebration-tour-giveaway

Waiting on the Tides Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Waiting on the Tides

Author: Tabitha Bouldin

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: November 29, 2022

People are more than the sum of their mistakes.

After a life lived in her older brother’s shadow, Abby Solomon is ready to take on the world—or at least a teaching position that puts her face to face with the one guy who thinks she’s nothing more than an immature nuisance.

When his daughter’s mother abandoned them, Christian Johnson swore off women and the trouble they bring. No wife—no drama. Just how he likes it. But as Christian struggles to juggle his job as a cop with raising his daughter and tracking down a runaway teen, he’s forced to ask the one woman who reminds him of his wife for help.

Abby is thrilled with the opportunity to show Christian that there’s more to her than what he thinks. But just as Christian begins to trust Abby, she makes a colossal mistake that threatens to ruin everything.

She just wanted to be accepted.

He wanted to be left alone.

It’ll take a runaway teen to show them that love is not measured by a single mistake.

This Breakers Head novel is Tabitha Bouldin’s final book in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Waiting on The Tides, a contemporary Christian fiction by Tabitha Bouldin is part of the Independence Island Series and the fourth book set on Breakers. The series is contemporary Christian fiction set on a fictional Island chain off the coast of Georgia, USA. This book does give updates on characters in previous books so for fullest enjoyment I would not recommend that you start with this book.

What I think about this book:

It is so hard to come to the end of the series, at this point I am so invested in the characters I want to see their happily ever afters, but I am not ready to say goodbye. Bouldin’s contributions to the series have given us wonderful characters who each had things that they could teach us about or remind us of. I was excited to catch up with the characters from the previous books and to get to know more about Christian and meet Abby. Christian was a very complex character, he wanted the best for his daughter, but was so closed off from people so that he didn’t get hurt again. Abby was tenacious and just the thing that he needed to shake up his life. I really enjoyed this book, I love the way that the previous characters were included. I can’t wait to see what the author has planned for the future.

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

Tabitha Bouldin is a student at Southern New Hampshire University, where she is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Creative Writing. As a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), she works with critique groups and provides endorsements for other authors. Tabitha’s genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart. Tabitha spent ten years working as a Medical Assistant before God opened the door which allowed her to become a stay-at-home-homeschooling-mom and author.

More from Tabitha

I knew by the second story I wrote for the Independence Islands series that Christian needed his own book. I put him off until the end because we had a lot to unpack with his character. He’s a single dad who will do anything to keep his daughter from feeling the sting of abandonment. He’s also determined not to allow another woman into his life out of fear that she’ll leave them and break his daughter’s heart. He’s not worried about his own, since he considers himself too calloused to care.

I needed a heroine who was strong and fearless, and a little bit of sunshine to his grump. She also needed to push against the constraints Christian made in a way that by the time he figured out he cared it was too late to go back. Nothing could ever be the same for him.

Enter Abby.

Some of you may remember her from book one, Mishaps off the Mainland. Zeke’s little sister is fresh out of college with all of the world before her, and all she wants is to make a difference for the children she teaches. When the child most in need of her attention happens to be Christian’s daughter, sparks fly.

Writing Abby and Christian’s story was equal parts humor and angst, but I love the message running under the romance. Expectation is not reality. What you think you know about someone because of their age or the way they look is not truth. Truth lingers in the details, in the actions and the small, everyday things that are often overlooked.

Christian had to learn to look deeper, and in the writing of his character, so did I.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 13

lakesidelivingsite, December 14

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 14

By the Book, December 15

Texas Book-aholic, December 16

Sylvan Musings, December 16

She Lives To Read, December 17

Inklings and notions, December 18

Holly’s Book Corner, December 18

deb’s Book Review, December 19

Sodbuster Living, December 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 20

Aryn the Libraryan, December 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 22

Blogging With Carol, December 22

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 24

Simple Harvest Reads, December 24 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, December 25

Blossoms and Blessings, December 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 26

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tabitha is giving away the grand prize package a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2305a/waiting-on-the-tides-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Trail So Lonesome Book Excerpt!

About the Book

Book: A Trail So Lonesome

Author: Lacy Williams

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: January 12, 2023

Spending five months eating trail dust wasn’t Leo Spencer’s first choice. Or his second. He’s not one to run away, but some situations can’t be fixed and his family—two brothers and a sister—needs to start over. Which is how he finds himself on a westbound wagon train.

Evangeline has a secret, one that has sent her on a journey across the plains on the Oregon Trail. When her father is badly hurt and she needs help, Leo is there. A deal is struck and the two unlikely friends form an alliance… that leads to more.

But Evangeline’s secret looms over her… and Leo’s family troubles are far from over.

Book Excerpt

Two days ago, a little boy had been bitten by a snake while walking alongside his mother. Leo had heard about it sitting around the fire eating supper.

“No one. When Father liquidated—”

“Don’t tell me,” he interrupted her. “I don’t want to know.”

How had Evangeline and her father kept a secret this big?

Two thousand dollars. That much money would allow him to get Alice and Coop and Collin settled. He could buy them a castle with that kind of money. He’d planned to help them build a house, put in a garden, raise cattle. He’d known it was going to take years.

But with this kind of money, Collin and Coop could start a business. Alice could have a nice house, built to her specifications.

There had to be a catch.

“A lot of things can happen on the trail. More river crossings. Buffalo stampede. Sickness. What if —” What if James didn’t survive the injuries he’d sustained today? Leo couldn’t say the words.

She did. “What if we don’t make it to Oregon?” Her voice was quiet, pensive. “If you put in all the effort, I won’t hold it against you if there is a natural disaster or we get cholera. You’ll still be paid.”

Missed Any Excerpts, Go Here:

Excerpt One: https://amandanicolle.blogspot.com/2022/12/a-trail-so-lonesome.html

Excerpt Two: https://guildmaster97.wordpress.com/2022/12/23/a-trail-so-lonesome-epic-book-launch-excerpt/

Excerpt Three: http://www.simpleharvestreads.com/posts/a-trail-so-lonesome-book-excerpt/

Excerpt Four: https://catsinthecradle.blog/2022/12/07/a-trail-so-lonesome-epic-book-launch/

Excerpt Five: https://nannie3.blogspot.com/2022/12/a-trail-so-lonesome.html?m=1

About the Author

Lacy Williams wishes her writing career was more like what you see in Hallmark movies: dreamy brainstorming from a French chateau or a few minutes at the computer in a million-dollar New York City penthouse. In reality, she’s up before the sun, putting words on the page before her kids wake up for the day. Those early-morning and late-night writing sessions add up, and Lacy has published sixty books in a decade, first with a big five publisher and then as an indie author. When she needs to refill the well, you can find Lacy birdwatching, gardening, biking with the kiddos, or walking the dog. Find tons of bonus scenes and reader extras by becoming a VIP reader at www.lacywilliams.net/vip .

The Ghost You Can’t See Author Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Ghost You Can’t See

Author: L.G. Nixon

Genre: Young Adult Fiction/Religious/Christian Fantasy/Mysteries & Detective Stories

Release date: November 1, 2022

Lucy is a ghost hunter, and she uses magical artifacts. Now she is experiencing a new level of spirit hauntings designed to bring her to a halt. Deceptive and nefarious beings are playing mind games, and she begins to doubt the love her family and friends. She must learn to see beyond the obvious and discern the hidden truths. Lucy discovers an ancient plot to overthrow the High King and destroy the beautiful city of Ascalon. Darnathian, the dark prince, is getting closer to finding the location of the Life Tree, and Lucy may not be able to stop him.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Meet LG Nixon, author, coffee connoisseur, motorcycle enthusiast, and collector of strange artifacts. With her zany imagination, she fuses a page-turning fantasy with a haunting theme and turns it into a spirit filled adventure with quirky and likable characters. After a long career, she left the workplace behind and turned to writing. Her stories are lighthearted but carry an underlying message of the importance of a Biblical worldview. She researches and writes full-time from her home in Michigan where she prowls the night star gazing and watching for a supernatural event. LG loves to ski, ride motorcycles, travel, and fly small planes; but no bungee jumping, thank you very much.

More from LG Nixon

I’ve always had zany and quirky imagination. Growing up in a creaky old house with a grandmother who told stories of ghostly visitations, I was curious. As a child, I filled journals with mystery and detective stories.

These days I write about ghosts and spirits to entertain and use scripture as dialogue to portray God’s love and forgiveness, our hope of redemption and the reality of a supernatural dimension just beyond our perception.

Why would a Christian author write about ghosts? Because scripture is filled with ghosts and spirits, angels, and demons along with some amazing creatures. God uses imagery to capture our imagination.

My writing has grown from my love for Jesus and a desire to share my faith with hope and encouragement. The Issachar Gatekeeper is designed to show young adults in a fun, adventurous way the impact Christian principles can have on their lives and to deepen their understanding of the world around them.

Author Interview with L.G. Nixon

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

Success to me is having readers tell me they enjoy the books, or parents and grandparents offer appreciation for the Christian principles the stories contain. That’s how I know I have achieved success.

2) What inspired this book?

My five granddaughters. Realizing they will be teens very soon, I wanted to give them, and all teens, a fun spiritual adventure designed to excite their imagination. The books introduce basic spiritual concepts while emphasizing the importance of Christian principles for a Biblical worldview.

3) Which author influenced you the most?

C.S. Lewis. His understanding of scripture and his ability to enlighten others remains pivotal to grasping the depth and beauty of God’s word.

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

Phillipians 4:13 NKJV I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

5) What are you reading right now?

Raising Dragons by Bryan Davis. I love dragon lore and I appreciate Bryan’s use of scripture with history and mythology. So fun!

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

I would need my Bible above all things. I find inspiration, comfort, beauty, and imagination. The psalms offer music and spiritual hymns. It’s God’s love letter to me and within its pages I hear His voice.

Thank you for letting us get to know you better!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 12

Texas Book-aholic, December 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 14

deb’s Book Review, December 15

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 16

Inklings and notions, December 17

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 18

Simple Harvest Reads, December 19 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 20

Denise L. Barela, Author, December 21

A Baker’s Perspective, December 22 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, December 22

Blogging With Carol, December 23

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

Cover Lover Book Review, December 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, L.G. is giving away the grand prize package of a custom printed canvas tote bag including a signed copy of the book, mug and coaster, book light, bookmarks, and other goodies!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/23059/the-ghost-you-can-t-see-celebration-tour-giveaway

Christmas Crime Cover-Up Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Christmas Crime Cover-Up

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre:Inspy Suspense

Release date: November 29, 2022

From USA TODAY bestselling author Dana Mentink…

A violent attack

Isn’t the homecoming she expected.

When an ATV tries to run her down in Death Valley, animal rescuer Nora Duke knows it’s a sign she never should have returned. Now she’s stuck on Seth Castillo’s ranch until Christmas with a pregnant donkey—and a criminal desperate to silence her. Facing her past is as terrifying as uncovering a killer’s twisted plan. But can Seth convince her to stay…if they live through the holidays?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Desert Justice

Book 1: Framed in Death Valley
Book 2: Missing in the Desert
Book 3: Death Valley Double Cross
Book 4: Death Valley Hideout
Book 5: Christmas Crime Cover-Up
Book 6: Targeted in the Desert

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Christmas Crime Cover Up by Dana Mentink is the fifth book in the Desert Justice series. While this book could be read as a standalone I recommend reading the prior books in the series as this book does give spoilers and updates on the characters that were featured. If you don’t have the ability to read all of them I highly recommend that you try to at least read Missing in the Desert prior to starting this one. This book features Seth Castillo and Nora Duke, who we have not previously met.

What you might need to know about:

Seth was shot in the head in Missing in the Desert, this book does discuss some of his feelings and his road to recovery.

What I think about this book:

I have fallen in love with the Duke family and Furnace Falls so imagine my surprise when we meet Nora ,the supposed black sheep of the Duke Family. After 10 years away she makes a return that she hoped would not last more than one night, but in true Mentink fashion things quickly escalate with a series of attacks on Nora and her best friend. Nora made a series of bad decisions as a teen and has allowed the decisions she made keep her from her family and faith. This was a very interesting perspective for a character. I enjoyed seeing how the Duke family handled it and how Nora responded. I loved getting to know more about Seth, he is a wonderful character (and it didn’t hurt that he drove a Bronco). I have loved every book in this series and can’t wait to see what happens next in Furnace Falls.

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 as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and the recipient of a Holt Medallion. She’s written over fifty titles in the suspense, lighthearted romance and mystery genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Poisoned Pen Press. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.) Her monthly newsletter features plenty of goodies, gab and giveaways. https://www.subscribepage.com/b8q0y5

More from Dana

Well here we go! Book five in the Desert Justice series features Nora (Chief Jude’s estranged sister), a wild donkey who needs rescuing, and a crime from the past that intrudes into the present. Twisty, right? I was inspired to write this story after visiting Death Valley and learning about the feral donkeys which inhabit the region. They’re cute, visitors love them, but the burros can encounter health problems and cause environmental damage if they aren’t settled into a safe area. It’s amazing to me that wild donkeys are adept at detecting underground water sources. They dig “wells” which can benefit many thirsty animals. Fascinating, right? Hope you’ll enjoy meeting Bubbles the donkey and the helpful humans who rescue her in this novel. God bless and thanks for reading!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 3

deb’s Book Review, December 3

Through the Fire Blogs, December 3

Texas Book-aholic, December 4

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 4

Betti Mace, December 5

Genesis 5020, December 5

Bizwings Blog, December 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 6

Bigreadersite, December 7

Inklings and notions, December 7

Daysong Reflections, December 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9

Empowermoms, December 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 10

Pause for Tales, December 10

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

For Him and My Family, December 11

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 12

Holly’s Book Corner, December 12

Blogging With Carol, December 13

Vicky Sluiter, December 13

For the Love of Literature, December 14

Lily’s Book Reviews, December 14

Cover Lover Book Review, December 15

Simple Harvest Reads, December 15 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Blossoms and Blessings, December 16

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 16

Labor Not in Vain, December 16

Giveaway

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

(If the winner is outside the U.S., then he or she will receive an eBook.)

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/22ec8/christmas-crime-cover-up-celebration-tour-giveaway

Under the Hibiscus Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Under the Hibiscus

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Christian Christmas Contemporary Romance

Release date: November 25, 2022

Do you have to give God two-weeks’ notice when you quit the ministry?

After a lifetime of being her father’s right-hand girl, Ezra gets a small taste of freedom during her friend’s honeymoon visit to the Suamalie islands and decides enough is enough. All she needs is to find a replacement secretary, teacher, project manager, accountant… et cetera.

In fact, what he needs is a wife.

Scott Keil intended to serve the Lord on St. Alyn Island for life. He just never intended to do it without his wife. So, when his daughter begins balking at being saddled with a ministry she never signed up for, he knows he needs to find a replacement for her. And well, she’s right. A wife who loves organization and serving the Lord would be the perfect solution.

But only one woman interests him and loves his ministry nearly as much as he does. Natalie Dershem—the event planner at St. Alyn’s newest resort. Why did she have to be nearly as young as his daughter… and so intriguing?

Under the Hibiscus is the introductory Christmas “noella” in the brand-new, Suamalie Islands Series from Celebrate Lit Publishing. Grab this May/December Christmas romance today.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:
Under the Hibiscus, a Contemporary Christian Romance by Chautona Havig is the introductory Novella in the Suamalie Islands Series. In this book we follow up with Ezra Keil who was introduced in Havig’s books in the Independence Island series. While you can read this book as a standalone, the Independence Islands are a great series to check out for more background on Ezra and her visitors in the book.

What you might need to know:
Ezra’s mother died during childbirth and she was raised alone by her father as a Missionary kid. In this book we learn that she didn’t always feel like she came as a top priority for her father.

What I think about this book:
I can honestly say that I don’t remember the last time that I read a contemporary Christan age gap romance, that made this such a delightful read. I was already intrigued by Ezra from the previous book, but it was very interesting to read about her father Scott. Scott is devoted to his ministry to the exclusion of all else. Natalie moves to the Islands for an event planning job, but instead falls in love with the ministry. This was a great read, I can’t wait to see what happens in this series!

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling author of Aggie and Past Forward series, 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

“I always wanted a son. But I wanted one a little younger than myself!” When Tevya said that to Lazar Wolf back when I was a teenager, little did I know that twenty years later, I’d say the same thing to my newly-minted son-in-law at my daughter’s reception.

It was a joke on me. I’d always said that I didn’t understand why people got worked up about age differences under twenty years. God called my bluff on that by sending me a son-in-law a year and a couple of months older than me and… nearly nineteen years (just shy by weeks) older than my daughter. People ask if I still think that it’s not a big deal. And I do. As I said back then, it all depends on the couple.

But May/December romances aren’t always popular. Some people don’t enjoy them. Maybe I do because my husband is seven years older than I am, my father is eight years older than my mother, and I have friends and family with eleven and fifteen years difference respectively. It’s just… normal in my experience. And as my dear friend said when she heard about people making snide comments about my daughter’s engagement, “Why would she want a boy her age when she can have a man?” And yeah. That is one of the lovely things about May/December romances.

Well, Under the Hibiscus definitely went that route—not because I specifically wanted an age difference for the couple but because two things jumped out at me. First, I couldn’t see Scott Keil with a woman his age. He’s such a young-at-heart-guy, and every woman his age my mind conjured… wasn’t. And I couldn’t see it!

But even more than that, I thought of Ezra and how it would feel to be a daughter whose father started dating someone nearly your own age. Especially since this wouldn’t be some socialite looking for a rich husband. Any woman interested in Scott Keil would have to love him and the Lord a great deal to be willing to accept such a large age difference. How would that go over with Ezra, and… what would their relationship look like. I mean, her stepmother would be a not-very-older sister’s age!

How does it all work out? Well… unfortunately, you’ll have to read to find out because right now? I don’t even know!

Blog Stops

By the Book, November 26

She Lives To Read, November 27

Texas Book-aholic, November 28

Blossoms and Blessings, November 28

Sylvan Musings, November 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 30

Inklings and notions, December 1

deb’s Book Review, December 2

For Him and My Family, December 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 4

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 6

Mary Hake, December 6

Simple Harvest Reads, December 7 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Lots of Helpers, December 8

Blogging With Carol, December 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/22dbc/under-the-hibiscus-celebration-tour-giveaway

Beneath His Silence Review and Giveaway!

About the Book

Book: Beneath His Silence

Author: Hannah Linder

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Release date: November, 2022

Will Seeking Justice Lead to Her Own Demise?

A Gothic-Style Regency Romance from a Promising Young Author

Second daughter of a baron—and a little on the mischievous side—Ella Pemberton is no governess. But the pretense is a necessity if she ever wishes to get inside of Wyckhorn Manor and attain the truth. Exposing the man who killed her sister is all that matters.

Lord Sedgewick knows there’s blood on his hands. Lies have been conceived, then more lies, but the price of truth would be too great. All he has left now is his son—and his hatred. Yet as the charming governess invades his home, his safe cocoon of bitterness begins to tear away.

Could Ella, despite the lingering questions of his guilt, fall in love with such a man? Or is she falling prey to him—just as her dead sister?

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy

Though I am oftentimes hesitant to try out new authors, I wanted to read Hannah Linder’s debut novel because I enjoy Regency Era and the book had quite a few endorsements from authors I love. The plot had more Gothic overtones than I expected, but Henry’s resounding faith even in the midst of his suffering, Peter’s delightful presence, and Ella’s impossible spunkiness allowed hope and brightness to enter the dark, eerie, and brooding atmosphere of Wyckhorn Manor.

The plot had a good deal of suspense as secrets and past regrets slowly came forward. The pace of the plot picked up a bit towards the latter half of the book. There were some aspects to the premise of the story that confused me, but my confusion did not interfere with my understanding of the story going forward. Though lonely, depressed, and sometimes harsh, I liked Henry and sympathized with his inner turmoil. His loyalty and deep care for those around him won me over. His interactions with his young son Peter were highlights of the story. I didn’t completely connect with Ella in her impulsivity, brash outspokenness, one-sided determination for vengeance, and then clinginess that seemed uncharacteristic later in the story. Still, Henry and Ella’s banter was fun and witty, quite in line with the time period.

If you enjoy Regency books with a Gothic overtone, you will likely enjoy this book.

I received the book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and International bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, and ukulele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.

More from Hannah

People always ask me what inspired a story. Where did I get the idea? Who was my inspiration? What true-life event motivated these characters into existence?

And the truth is, I don’t know. I’ve never known. When I was younger, I’d look clueless and shrug my shoulders. A few years ago, I would have probably answered “people”—and maybe there’s truth in that. People do inspire me. The way they walk, the places they go, the things they do, the way they dress.

But lately…well, I think it’s more than that. I don’t think it’s people so much as feelings. The nitty-gritty. The raw emotions, caught deep in someone’s chest, at the most pivotal points in their life.

Like the old man seated at a booth, alone in a restaurant, with his veiny hands cupping a mug of coffee. It’s not his shabby fedora that inspires me. Or the knotty cane leaned against his seat. Or the envelope stuffed into the pocket of his woolen overcoat.

It’s the look on his face. The slow blinking, the red nose, the flash of moisture as he takes another sip of coffee. Why does he sit alone? Who left him? Who caused the tears? What emotions render that lost, helpless, longing expression—and how will he cope?

If you would ask me what inspired Beneath His Silence, I probably wouldn’t have much of an answer. No concrete idea or moment would rush to remembrance. If anything, inspiration for Beneath His Silence was nothing more than a small thought. A feeling.

I wanted to write about a girl who learned to love someone she hated. I wanted to explore every aspect. The poison of her hate. The weight it pressed into her heart. The process—slow, startling, and healing—that sucked out that poison and replaced it with something unexpected. Love.

I guess that’s what I love about writing. Not the people. The characters. Not even the storylines and the plot twists and the fun settings.

I love the emotion. That’s what inspires me.

And if you find yourself in the pages of Beneath His Silence, I hope it will inspire you too.