The Characters Within Author Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Characters Within

Author: Sunshine Rodgers

Genre: Inspirational Fiction / Romance / Humor

Release date: July 30, 2020

Brittany Myers is stuck. She hates her role as a Cheese Crusader to Florida’s popular Cheddar and Such theme park! She is sick of the guests, the heat and working at the Fun at the Parm Attraction which features the animatronics Patty the Pretzel and Peter the Breadstick.

Her only relief from the monotony is writing chapters in her upcoming novel “The Carnival Ride” where she tells stories with theatrical scenes about her co-workers, her fears and the struggles she faces day in and day out.

With the help of her work family, the man of her dreams and her best friend, Brittany discovers that the magic she is looking for was right inside of her the entire time.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Sunshine Rodgers is an International Best-Selling Author on Amazon. She has written 11 books which have landed on 26 different Best Seller lists, including #1 in the United Kingdom, #2 in the United States and #25 in Canada. Her books have been translated in several languages (Spanish, English and Portuguese). She has participated in 5 book tours and dozens of book signings. When she is not writing, Sunshine is a guest and featured author on radio, podcasts and online magazines. Sunshine is a Brand Ambassador, a Blogger and an Entrepreneur to her 32,000 social media followers. Sunshine is married to the love of her life, Travis, and they reside in sunny Florida.

More from Sunshine

“This book is about…me. I spent over 5 years working at a theme park, barely surviving the mess, the mayhem and the craziness that often occurred on-stage and backstage. I used that immersive experience to write my novel, “The Characters Within.” This story is about Brittany Myers, a Cheese Crusader who has to wear this silly costume and repeat these corny sayings and hear the same annoying tunes playing over and over again. But she really wants to be an Author.

And that’s where I found myself. At a backstage break room, writing this book as Brittany was writing hers. I have included 35 real-life people as characters (those who survived the madness with me!) and together we invite you to join us…as I now lift the curtain to “The Characters Within” – a Book-within-a-Book, Part Musical, Part Love Story and 100% pure entertainment!”

Mindy’s Q&A with Sunshine

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

When I first became published years ago, I told myself that if just one person reads one of my books and is blessed by it, then all the hard work in writing, researching and publishing was worth it!

I have a sign on my office that says: When you feel like quitting, think about why you started. This sign helps me to remember the real reason why I became a writer in the first place.

I will admit, since I am a full-time Author, I am notorious for checking my sales status, or reading the newest reviews written about my books and I can easily get caught up in the business side or the politics of it all. But I have to remember the foundation of why I do what I do and that success to me is creating content that inspires and relates to people and encourages them in their faith.

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

The Characters Within is about a girl named Brittany Myers who works at Cheddar and Such theme park. She hates working at that theme park! The live band plays the ridiculous theme song over and over. The animatronics Patty the Pretzel and Peter the Breadstick will break down. Guests drive her crazy and she hates wearing the dorky uniform with the giant cheese hat and with a milk jug disguised as a water bottle.

I connect very well with Brittany’s story. You see, I worked at a theme park for 5 years so my story is… well, her story. But in the midst of the frustrations, I have found great joy. Co-workers become family. Experiences work out for the best. And I grew to love and appreciate the season I was in for it lead me to my next great adventure. Or in my case, my next great novel.

3)What inspired this book?

In The Characters Within, Brittany is writing a novel, “The Carnival Ride” using her co-workers as real-life characters in her story.

This is a true to real-life because I used to work at a theme park and I used 35 of my former co-workers as characters on the pages. (you can read all the names on my website: http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/home.html)

I had so much raw and real and behind the scenes content from working years at a theme park that I decided to make a fiction novel using my personal experiences.

4)Which author influenced the you most?

I love C.S. Lewis! He is so passionate about his faith and creative in his work. In fact, one of my favorite books written by Lewis is The Screwtape Letters, a fiction novel told from a demon’s point of view. This Lewis classic inspired me to write a modern-day version which is called After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby which is a PG-13 dark Christian fiction.

I also enjoy Gene Edwards. He writes such amazing prose and re-tells Biblical stories in imaginative ways. Edwards wrote a book called The Beginning about heaven and angels and about the beginning of the world as we know it. I wrote a similar book inspired by Edwards called The Creation Project which is a Christian Fiction novel about Genesis Chapters 1-3 told from God’s point of view

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

One of my favorite verses can be found in the book of Judges:

“Lord, may those who love you rise like the sun in all its power!” – Judges 5:31 NLT

This verse appears on the opening pages of my upcoming book Be the Sunshine which my newest Christian Nonfiction Book.

Be the Sunshine is a 5-Part message about spreading love and kindness out into the world.

Part 1 is about Acting in Kindness (how to serve, share peace and offer forgiveness).

Part 2 is about Shouting Goodness (building up the body of Christ and emphasizing Church Unity).

Part 3 is about holding A Fresh Perspective (standing on God’s Promises and focusing on blessing others).

Part 4 is about The Power of Love (loving God, loving your neighbor, loving yourself)

Part 5 answers the question “Why do we not help?” (the excuses we make and the fears we create)

Be the Sunshine will be released Summer 2022 and is inspired by my favorite Bible verse!

Thank you for letting us get to know you better!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 16

Inklings and notions, September 17

Simple Harvest Reads, September 18 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 18

Texas Book-aholic, September 19

Beauty in the Binding, September 20 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, September 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 22

For Him and My Family, September 23

Blossoms and Blessings, September 24 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 25

Susan K. Beatty, Author, September 26 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 26

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 27

Guild Master, September 28 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sunshine is giving away the grand prize of a $40 Visa 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/21813/the-characters-within-celebration-tour-giveaway

Fighting and Flirting with My Cowboy Enemy Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Fighting and Flirting with My Cowboy Enemy

Author: Julia Keanini

Genre: Clean and Wholesome Romance

Release date: July 26, 2022

Jackson Ashford seems to have it all. Gorgeous looks, fulfilling job, loving relationship with his family . . . and he looks amazing in a cowboy hat. He may be a bit of a grump at times, but that doesn’t deter the women of Blue Falls from vying for his attention. So when Ruby Ellison arrives at his doorstep and hates Jackson on sight, he’s confused, to say the least.

Ruby Ellison never intended to come to the tiny town of Blue Falls, Idaho, but when her best friend’s search for her birth father takes her there, Ruby follows. She comes because she’d never let Madi down, but she stays because she quickly comes to love the small town. It’s the best place she’s ever lived . . . with one exception. Jackson Ashford. But Ruby figures she’ll just avoid him. Blue Falls is a small town but surely it’s big enough for two people to keep their distance.

But when Jackson and Ruby are both asked to coach an eight-year-old girls’ basketball team, Ruby realizes there will be no avoiding the man. She’ll just have to hate him up close rather than from afar. But as Ruby gets to know him she realizes that maybe the man she thought she knew isn’t really who Jackson is at all.

Join Ruby and Jackson as they fight and flirt their way to a happily ever after.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Fighting and Flirting with Her Cowboy Enemy, a clean and wholesome romance by Julia Keanini is the second book in The Ashford Brothers series. I would not recommend that you read this book first. This book contains two story lines that continue from the first book in the series and I would have been confused if I had not gone back and read the first book in the series.

What you might need to know:

There is an attempted assault mentioned in this book.

What I think about this book:

Ruby Ellison and Jackson Ashford made a very entertaining book. In the first book in the series the author gave a glimpse of Ruby’s dislike of Jackson and I thought that it was just due to her protectiveness of her best friend during a very stressful situation. In this story we realize that Ruby and Jackson share a past that Jackson remembers nothing about. It was interesting to see that dynamics between Ruby and Jackson shift as Ruby struggles to reconcile the boy from her past with the man that Jackson shows he is time and time again. Keanini did a wonderful job with both the Ashford Family and the residents of Blue Falls. My only complaint is that I have to wait for the next book in the series, I can’t wait to see what happens with Sofi and Austin.

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

Julia Keanini is just a city girl living in a country world (and secretly loving it). She loves the mountains and would adore the beach, if it weren’t for all the sand and salt (wait, that is the beach?). A good book, a great song, or a huge piece of chocolate can lift her mood, but her true happiness is found in her little fam. She writes about girls and women who deal with what life throws at them and always about love, because she LOVES love.

More from Julia

I almost got run over by a cow when I was thirteen. I homeschooled during my middle school years and my parents decided I needed to do more with my free-time. So they sent me to work at a friend’s ranch. I was a typical very self-conscious teen and I had been near horses and cows probably at most five times in my life. You could see that this maybe wasn’t the best combination but my parents were sure and they promised me a juice at the end of every shift so I was game.

I started by brushing horses tails and braiding them. I was the oldest of five girls so this was totally in my wheelhouse. I also shoveled a whole bunch of manure. This wasn’t my favorite part of the job. But I quickly fell in love with horses. They were majestic if not a little stinky, but I loved them all the same.

Then came the big day. The cows needed to be branded and it was my job (who decided this I will never know) to get the cows into the chute where they would be branded. Granted I did this with four other grown men, the people who should have been doing the job, but I was out there as well. In the middle of this arena. Trying to not get killed. I managed for about five cows and then there was a mean one. I knew from the moment I saw her that she wanted me out of there. The moment she was let free she beelined it in my direction, letting me know that I didn’t stand a chance. Somewhere in the background I heard people yelling my name, telling me to move. But I froze. Did nothing. Thankfully one of those grown men saved me and I lived to tell the tale.

But even after all of that, I loved ranch life. I knew I would one day write a story about it. I saved it in my heart for a long time, this is book number forty-seven for me, but it finally came to fruition. A series about seven brothers (even though I grew up with four sisters) in the most beautiful land in Northern Idaho.

Welcome to Blue Falls Ranch.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, September 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 6

Inklings and notions, September 7

For Him and My Family, September 8

A Baker’s Perspective, September 9 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, September 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 10

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 11

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 13

For the Love of Literature, September 14 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 15

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 16 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, September 16

Simple Harvest Reads, September 17 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Pause for Tales, September 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Julia is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and 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/2136a/fighting-and-flirting-with-my-cowboy-enemy-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blood Secrets Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Blood Secrets

Author: Morgan L. Busse

Genre: YA Steampunk Fantasy

Release date: August 9, 2022

Not everyone wants to see the world saved . . .

Time is running out. Cities are being engulfed in the Mist and humanity is on the brink of extinction. Theo believes he has found a way to stop mankind from Turning, but he doesn’t know how to alter Cass’s unique blood into a cure. Or if it can even be done.

Meanwhile, Cass struggles with the idea that she is possibly the savior of the world—a world she is not sure is worth saving.

From the Winchester manse to the steel city of Decadenn, there is something more chasing Cass than the House of Lords or the masked man who can walk in the Mist. Soon she must decide if she will use her blood to save mankind or let those who only care about themselves perish.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy

“He was her anchor, and she was his fire.”

What a riveting conclusion to the Skyworld duology! The action in the fast-paced plot picks up right after how things ended in the first book without missing a beat. Theo’s stalwart commitment to finding the cure for everyone from the Mist grows stronger with each encounter with the Turned, with those who try to eliminate them and their research, and with those who risk their safety to help them. Theo and Cass’ faith and driving passion for justice and mercy make them the perfect pair; they balance each other out in thought and action and work totally in sync. Cass learns to overcome her prejudice against privileged rulers and realizes that there is more to life than just survival. I loved Cass’ spunk and boldness which melded well with Theo’s pragmatism and steadfastness. Their romance that develops in this book is sweet and so achingly tender. If you are a fan of young adult fantasy/steam punk genre, this is a must read. You won’t be able to put it down.

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

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of the Follower of the Word series, The Soul Chronicles, and The Ravenwood Saga. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and winner of both the INSPY and the Carol Award for best in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.

More from Morgan

A lot of stories involve the hero saving the world. But is that realistic if you consider what the hero has been through? What if saving the world means saving the villain? Or that bully who made the hero’s life terrible back in high school? Or the person who lied and it cost the hero his or her job, home, or even their first love?

When I started writing Blood Secrets, it hit me (and therefore Cass as I was writing her story), that if she saved her world—all the people who were forced to live on mountaintops, airships, and sky islands because of the deadly Mist that covered everything else—she would be saving the people who saw her as lesser than. The people who forced everyone else off the mountains to die in the Mist, including her parents. The same people who would never think of saving someone like her.

As I wrote her story, I felt Cass’s resentment and anger towards the “echelons”—those at the top of society and literally the world. She was fine with saving others like her. But the thought of saving the people who ordered the purges that killed so many made her feel sick. In her mind, they didn’t deserve her sacrifice.

Honestly, I had never thought about it before. The hero saves the world. It’s what a hero does. But this was the first time I really thought about what that meant, and who it meant saving. It made me look at myself. Would I be willing to save everyone? Even those who have hurt me? Who have cost me so much in my life? Ugh. That’s a hard thought.

People love heroes, and sometimes even want to be one themselves. But the reality is being a hero is really hard. It’s not just saving the world; it’s saving those who live in the world. The good and the bad. Those deserving and those not so much. That’s what a real hero does.

I won’t share what decision Cass made because that is part of her story. But I am glad I was able to write her story because it made me think more about how I would react in her situation. And about God, who ultimately gave all to save a world that did not want Him.

Blog Stops

Where Faith and Books Meet, August 31

Remembrancy, August 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 1

Texas Book-aholic, September 2

Blogging With Carol, September 2

Inklings and notions, September 3

Christina’s Corner, September 3

The Christian Fiction Girl, September 4

For Him and My Family, September 5

Labor Not in Vain, September 5

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 6

Aryn the Libraryan, September 7

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 7

deb’s Book Review, September 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 9

Daysong Reflections, September 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 10

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

Rebecca Tews, September 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 12

Simple Harvest Reads, September 13 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Morgan is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon and signed 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/21361/blood-secrets-celebration-tour-giveaway

Twin Murder Mix-Up Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Twin Murder Mix-Up

Author: Sami A. Abrams

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: August 23, 2022

A case of mistaken identity…

has lethal results

After capturing a murder on her camera, photographer Amy Baker becomes the next target—but her identical twin is killed instead. Now on the run with her sister’s newborn, Amy has only one person to turn to—Detective Keith Young, her childhood crush. But when they discover Keith is the baby’s father, can he regain Amy’s trust to keep them safe…before the killer strikes again?

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:
Twin Murder Mix-Up by Sami A. Abrams is a Love Inspired Romantic Suspense. While it is a standalone novel it does involve characters that were in Abrams’s Buried Cold Case Secrets, I highly recommend reading it prior to reading this as it is a great book and helps you understand the team dynamic.

What you might need to know:
Amy struggles with self esteem.
Keith has guilt over a life changing decision.

What I think about this book:
This book started off with a bang! When we meet Amy we find out that her Identical twin was murdered in a case of mistaken identity and she is now running for her life. Keith, an Anderson county deputy who was in the previous book, grew up best friends with Amy, but had lost contact with her. When she runs out of options she reaches out to him for help. Their relationship at times was very frustrating to read about , to me both of the main characters had some flaws and guilt that they needed to see a counselor for. I really preferred the mystery/ Suspense portion of this book to the Romance , it was very fast paced and left me guessing what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed it and look forward to the next book !

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

Sami A. Abrams lives in Northern California, but she’ll always be a Kansas girl at heart. She loves to travel and watch sports. However, most evenings, you’ll find her engrossed in a romantic suspense novel. She thinks a crime plus a little romance is the recipe for a great story.

More from Sami

#Authorproblems That’s what the excitement around Keith Young was…a problem—Kinda. Lol!

When I started to hear request for his story, I panicked. Authors don’t want to disappoint their readers. And being new to the published scene…Well, you get the picture. 😊

After the release of Buried Cold Case Secrets, many readers told me they wanted Keith’s story. In fact, the overwhelming response puzzled me. What had I done to create such a buzz about Jason’s partner? And of course, I had to ask why?

The general answer I received…Keith’s a nice guy and the perfect partner.

I have to admit, I got a little nervous since I had already written his story. And I worried if I’d done his character justice?

However, after writing Buried Cold Case Secrets, I knew Keith had to have his own story. He’s such a great guy and needed his happily ever after. So, I dove in and asked, what would happen if he made a huge mistake? Not just a physical one, but a heart one.

By the time I finished, I loved seeing Keith and Amy move past their poor choices and hurt to find acceptance and love. The perfect ending to Keith’s struggles.

All that to say, I hope you love Keith and Amy’s story as much as I do. #TeamKeith

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 27

Bizwings Blog, August 27

The Avid Reader, August 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 28

Christina’s Corner, August 28

Genesis 5020, August 29

Texas Book-aholic, August 29

Inklings and notions, August 30

Through the Fire Blogs, August 30

EmpowerMoms, August 30

Betti Mace, August 31

deb’s Book Review, August 31

For Him and My Family, September 1

Pause for Tales, September 1

The Sacred Line, September 1

She Lives To Read, September 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 3

Britt Reads Fiction, September 3

For the Love of Literature, September 4

Lights in a Dark World, September 4

Paula’s Persuasion, September 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 5

Book Looks by Lisa, September 5

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 6

Vicarious Living , September 6

Mary Hake, September 6

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 7

Bigreadersite , September 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 8

Blogging With Carol, September 8

Simple Harvest Reads, September 9 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Labor Not in Vain, September 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sami is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon card and signed copy of Twin Murder Mix-Up (US only) or eBook for outside the US!!

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/210ca/twin-murder-mix-up-celebration-tour-giveaway

Far from Home Author Interview and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Far From Home

Author: Mabel Ninan

Genre: Christian / Non-Fiction / Spiritual Growth

Release date: July 12, 2022

What is my purpose? Why do I exist? A sense of self and belonging are two questions many of us struggle to answer.

And what if you are a foreigner in another land?

How does one adjust to a new culture? Discover their place in a new society?

For Mabel Ninan, born and raised in India and an immigrant in America shortly after marriage, the search for those answers sent her on a journey that led to an unexpected and exciting discovery.

God revealed she was not only an earthly immigrant but also a spiritual one, created with a unique calling to impact His kingdom. Mabel’s renewed perspective imbued her with joy and hope, urging her to share the message with others.

Drawing from her personal experiences and by examining the lives of biblical heroes, Mabel sheds light on what it means to live as a citizen of Heaven on earth. Far from Home will inspire you to:

Embrace your identity as a foreigner on earth.
Make your home with God.
Find community and common purpose with fellow sojourners.

Explore the intersection between culture, identity, and faith in this new release from an earthly immigrant who gained a spiritual perspective.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Born and raised in the minority Christian community in India, Mabel moved to the US in 2008 shortly after getting married. In nearly thirteen years of her marriage, her family has called ten different places across two continents and seven cities home. The challenges Mabel faced as an immigrant on the move led to a spiritual crisis that drew her nearer to God’s side where she learned valuable lessons about how to live as a citizen of heaven. Her mission is to inspire believers to embrace their pilgrim journey on earth and boldly pursue their heavenly calling.

A contributor to Guideposts’ All God’s Creatures: Daily Devotions for Animal Lovers 2022, Mabel’s writings have appeared in The Upper Room, CBN.com, Leading Hearts Magazine, and (in)courage.me. She hosts a YouTube podcast called Immigrant Faith Stories where she shares testimonies of immigrants, refugees, missionaries, and cross-cultural ministry leaders. She has been serving in various roles in women’s ministry for almost a decade.

Mabel enjoys reading, traveling, and dancing, but nothing gives her more joy than having conversations about the Bible.

Mabel is pursuing M.A. in Theological Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. She lives with her husband, son, and Maltese pup in Northern California.

More from Mabel

When the idea of this book was birthed in 2018, I wanted to publish a collection of letters to my son. I wanted to keep a record of God’s faithfulness to me in a foreign country. How He became my all in all when I had nobody to call my own. How He gave me His all when I was empty. I hoped my stories and learnings would strengthen not only my son’s faith but also other immigrants like me. But God had a different plan for this book.

By 2019, the book underwent a complete change in its content and organization. It also targeted a different group of readers. I wrote for those who were coping with changes, those who wanted a deeper walk with God, those who found it difficult to belong or cling to hope in the midst of suffering, and those who were tired of going through the motions. My agent and I replaced the title of the book from This is not Home to Far from Home.

After facing rejecting from almost eight publishers, Far from Home found its home in Harambee Press, an imprint of Iron Stream Media that publishes ethnic writers. I was thrilled!

Far from Home is a nonfiction book but it is also part memoir. I’ve described what life was like growing up in India and I also recount a few experiences as an immigrant in the U.S. What makes Far from Home unique is also that the book introduces the reader to another culture, the Indian/South Asian culture. Some parts of the book read like a devotional while others are rich in biblical character studies and teaching.

Overall, I feel the book reflects who I am—an Indian, an America, an Indian-American, a storyteller, an immigrant, and a Bible teacher—though that was not my aim. I find it fascinating that I could be myself and tell my stories and use all aspects of my identity to declare the goodness and greatness of God.

There is a need for more diversity in our stories. I’m not saying this because diversity is the new buzz world these days. We need diverse voices and ways of worship because they reveal God’s power, beauty, and creativity. Testimonies from other cultures can open our eyes to a new way of experiencing God and His Word. They engage our brains and touch our hearts in a unique way. Reading books by diverse authors can enlarge our capacity for empathy, push back our defenses, and even turn our fear of the unknown into appreciation.

I hope my writing helps you see God from a different lens, a different angle. I hope it makes you want to read books by authors from varied cultures, races, and ethnicities.

And my desire, more than anything else, is that Far from Home convinces you that you’re never really far from home. In the triune God, you always have a home here on earth while you await a better one in heaven. A home that will be shared with people from all nations, tongues, and tribes.

Author Interview with Mabel

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

In order to write more books, I have to sell more books. My agent mentioned that it would be difficult for her to pitch an author’s second book to potential publishers if the first book’s sales were abysmal. I would be a hypocrite if I said I did not care about sales. I do. Because my publisher has to sell books in order to do well in the industry. Also, because I want to get the book in the hands of more people who need to hear its message and benefit from it.

But I do not obsess over numbers. I do my best to promote my work, working within my constraints, and I believe that God is ultimately in charge of sales.

I consider writing the book itself as a success because I was faithful to my calling and to the opportunities God gave me. Success is also measured in terms of the impact my book makes on readers’ lives, especially their relationship with God. When someone tells me how the book or an article has changed their attitude or perception about something or contributed to their faith in some way, I feel encouraged to keep writing. It’s a win I celebrate and rejoice over. To know that God used my writing to accomplish His plans is an amazing and fantastic feeling.

2)Which chapter was the most difficult to write?

Unity in Diversity was the most difficult chapter to write. I spent a lot of time on my knees searching my motives on writing this chapter and asking God for wisdom on how to navigate this sensitive topic. Did I want to vent and say my piece? Or, did I want to reveal God’s intentions for church unity? I was ruthless in editing this chapter, scrutinizing and justifying the inclusion of certain words and anecdotes.

3)Which author influenced the you most?

Arundhati Roy (in recent years)

4)What is your vacation spot?

Nice, France.

5)What are you reading right now?

The Address Book: What Street Addresses Reveal about Identity, Race, Wealth, and Power by Diedre Mask.

Thank you, Mabel, for taking the time to let us get to know you!

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, September 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 2

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 3

A Reader’s Brain, September 4

Beauty in the Binding, September 5 (Author Interview)

Boondock Ramblings, September 5

Inklings and notions, September 6

deb’s Book Review, September 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 8

Simple Harvest Reads, September 9 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 11

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 12

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 13

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, September 14 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, September 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mabel is giving away the grand prize package of a Paperback copy of book, customized notepad and bookmark (these eco-friendly products made by rural artisans in India help sustain endangered art forms and secure livelihoods), access to digital resources (recipe booklet, teaching videos, and audio prayers), and a $30 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/21362/far-from-home-celebration-tour-giveaway

Legends of the Donut Shop Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Legends of the Donut Shop

Author: Terry Overton

Genre: Fiction/Middle Grade YA

Release date: March 19, 2022

At seventeen years of age, Wes Williams is injured in a head-on collision and nearly loses his life. Wes does not know if he will live or die. In a mysterious near-death experience, he travels back in time to his earlier years and the time he spent with his grandfather and his old buddies at the Donut Shop. The humorous gang of old veterans, and one retired sheriff, retell their stories once again. This time, Wes understands the meaning of each story.

This is a book of second chances, life lessons, and forgiveness. Wes’s life is changed forever, and he begins a new chapter in his life.

This book was written for a group of actual Donut Shop friends who gathered weekly with my dad. I often went with him to hear the stories these people told. The men were all veterans. At the suggestion of one particular veteran, I wrote the book so that younger people, middle school age, YA, etc., could experience what these groups of guys are like and to appreciate U.S. history.

My dad had seen the cover of the book and a summary of what I was writing. He and my mom both died of Covid ten days before the book was published. He never got to read it. I was able to pass it out to the men from the local donut shop at Mom and Dad’s funeral on March 30^th. I hope to pass these stories on, just like Dad wanted.

Legends of the Donut Shop earned 5 Star Reviews from Reader Views and Readers’ Favorites.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:
Legends of the Donut Shop By Terry Overton is fiction, listed as Middle Grade Young Adult Fiction. It is a contemporary story featuring a 17 year old boy as he flashes back on his younger self.

What I think about this book as the Mom of a Young Adult Reader:
This was a really good book with lots of good messages and talking points, it would be great to use with students in a Co Op, or Christian School or Family.

What I think about this book as a reader:
I am the wife of a Marine and the granddaughter of a Korean War Veteran, this story gave me all the feels as I felt like my grandpa could have easily been one of the Legends from the donut shop and could easily imagine my husband in this position as he get older. This book had me laughing and crying. I don’t know the last time that I enjoyed a book so much. I loved the maturity that Wes demonstrated in the second portion of the book. He was a wonderful character who I enjoyed getting to know.
Oh How I would love one more Saturday Morning Coffee with my Grandpa! I will definitely read more books by this author.
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

Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology. Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean. She has two children and six grandchildren. Her writing and publication experiences include textbook and journal articles in the fields of special education and school psychology. She seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals. Her book Both Sides of the Border is a Firebird Book Award, Bookfest Winner, America Writing Award, and International Book Award Finalist, for categories of Cross-Genre, Socio-Political Fiction, and Women’s Fiction. Her book, America of We the People was awarded the Firebird Book Award for Socio-Political and Political categories. She and her husband live in the southern tip of Texas where they enjoy semi-tropical weather and spending time with their friends and family.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 26

Lights in a Dark World, August 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 27

Texas Book-aholic, August 28

Inklings and notions, August 29

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 30

For Him and My Family, August 31

Bigreadersite, September 1

Blossoms and Blessings, September 2 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, September 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 4

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

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 6

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 7

Simple Harvest Reads, September 8 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Terry is giving away the grand prize package 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/210c9/legends-of-the-donut-shop-celebration-tour-giveaway

Laura’s Shadow Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Laura’s Shadow

Author: Allison Pittman

Genre: Christian/Historical/Romance

Release date: August 1, 2022

Family Secrets Spill One Conversation at a Time

Visit historic American landmarks through the Doors to the Past series. History and today collide in stories full of mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance.

De Smet, South Dakota—1890
Young women growing up in DeSmet live by two rules: don’t go out in a snowstorm and don’t give your heart to Cap Garland. Young Mariah Patterson only managed to obey one. Orphaned and having devoted her youth to scrapping out a life with her brother Charles, Mariah finds herself with no interesting suitors or means of support. Throwing caution to the wind, she seizes an opportunity to lay her feelings at Cap’s feet, even though she knows Cap sees the world through the torch he carries for Laura Ingalls. Mariah is certain her love for Cap will be strong enough to break both bonds, and she’s willing to risk everything to prove it.

De Smet, South Dakota—1974
Trixie Gowan is the fourth generation of living Gowan women residing in the sprawling farmhouse on the outskirts of De Smet. Well, former resident. She’s recently moved to Minneapolis, where she writes ads for a neighborhood paper edited by Ron Tumble. She might live and work in the city, but her co-workers still call her Prairie Girl. Thus the inspiration for her comic strip—“Lost Laura”—in which a bespectacled girl in a calico dress tries to make her way in the city. The name is a quiet rebellion having grown up in a household where she’d been forbidden to mention the name, Laura Ingalls. But when her great-grandmother Mariah’s declining health brings Trixie home for a visit, two things might just keep her there: the bedside manner of Dr. Campbell Carter and the family secret that seems to be spilling from GG’s lips one conversation at a time.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy

“Sometimes first love exists as a foundation for new love.”

This is not the first Allison Pittman book I have read but it feels very different from the ones I have read. I love dual timeline settings, I loved some of the books in this series, and I love the author’s writing style so this book was a no-brainer for me to pick up. I really enjoyed that the 1890s timeline and 1970s timeline combined the great grandmother’s story and the great granddaughter’s. The author’s beautiful prose is captivating.

Perhaps it’s that I am not a huge fan of Little House books but I had a bit of difficulty connecting with the 1890s plotline – a plotline revolving around the minor characters in Laura Ingalls Wilder’s These Happy Golden Years. Mariah, Trixie’s great grandmother, is one of the students that Laura Ingalls taught and life in 1890s South Dakota is told in her first person narrative. Mariah, as a young woman, is hard to understand though her tender relationship with her older brother Charles is a shining moment in her wearied and battle-scarred life. 1970s Trixie tells her tale in third person narrative and she was easier to connect with; she has great and hilarious conversations with Ron, her boss and possible love interest. It was interesting to see Mariah in 1970s as a hundred plus year old woman, grounded by faith and life experiences but still harboring loss and deep regret.

Though I didn’t necessarily connect with all the characters, I did appreciate the clever and intricate plot, the bond among the generations of women in Trixie’s family, and the author’s lyrical writing style. 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

Allison Pittman is the author of more than a dozen critically acclaimed novels and a four-time Christy finalist—twice for her Sister Wife series, once for All for a Story from her take on the Roaring Twenties and most recently for the critically acclaimed The Seamstress which takes a cameo character from the Dickens’ classic A Tale of Two Cities and flourishes her to life amidst the French Revolution. She lives in San Antonio, Texas, blissfully sharing an empty nest with her husband, Mike. Connect with her on Facebook (Allison Pittman Author), Twitter (@allisonkpittman) or her website, allisonkpittman.com.

More from Allison

I can credit Laura Ingalls Wilder for just about every aspect of my identity. I’m a reader because I read her books over and over and over again, checking them out from my little elementary school library. I can still see them—last bookcase, bottom shelf. During the summer, I checked them out from the Bookmobile, and one magical Christmas, I received my own set. The well-worn, yellow paperbacks have a place of honor in my office: top shelf, center stage. It was amazing to my eight-year-old self that I could pick up Little House in the Big Woods, skip the dull parts, and jump straight to These Happy Golden Years in a single afternoon.

Looking at Laura’s writing now (as I often do), I realize I spent my childhood absorbing the art of telling a story. Her books masterfully string meaningful vignettes within an over-arching conflict. She creates stories-within-a-story-within-a-story whenever Pa launches into a tall tale, and minor characters come to life no matter how brief their appearance. (Aunt Docia, anyone?)

When I first came up with the concept of writing a story set in the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I knew I couldn’t bring Laura herself in as a character. There’s a sacredness to her story, and I wouldn’t dream of inserting myself into the cannon of her pages. But—I thought—surely she had peers who grew up alongside her, classmates who also hated Miss Wilder, young men who might have set their own cap for her, townsfolk who remembered the vibrant young woman with the button-brown eyes and dark curls. And then I pondered further: maybe there was another side to Laura—a side that she kept from the romanticized ideal skipping through the pages of her books. My first thought was to create a fictional De Smet town girl, but then…

In researching and reading Pioneer Girl, The Annotated Autobiography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I came across a bit of information that brought the story to life for me. In These Happy Golden Years, Laura teaches her first class: five students, two families. And while the “Brewster” children are documented in other sources, the Harrison children are not. There are no census records, land deeds, or any official documents to support the identity of Charles and Martha as they are depicted in the novel. And so, it clicked. If Laura could fictionalize these people, well, then, so could I. Thus Martha Harrison was lifted from those pages, renamed Mariah, and given a new life and a new story in mine.

Writing Laura’s Shadow allowed me to indulge in a few favorite directions. First, I’m fascinated with the idea of extreme longevity (showcased in my novel All for a Song), and creating a character whose lifespan stretches from homesteading to disco was delightful. My Mariah chafes at the romanticized depiction of pioneer life, telling us in her old age that it was really more of a daily struggle for survival. I also enjoyed exploring the family dynamic of four generations of women and how each generation faced the same battles and fought them so, so differently. Finally—and this is what truly speaks to my fourth-grade self…

You know that Elton John song, “Your Song” with the lyrics, “I hope you don’t mind that I put down in words…” Well, I got to put down in words my lifelong crush on Cap Garland. Sure, Almonzo is great and everything, but I always thought Cap was more exciting. More fun. More…more. Bringing him to life in this book set my old heart racing. My research for this novel took me to De Smet, and to his gravesite, where I spoke this story to his stone. I like to think he’d approve, and I hope all of the Laura fans will join me in this tale and let their imaginations run wild.

Blog Stops

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 30

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , August 31

Texas Book-aholic, August 31

Genesis 5020, September 1

Inklings and notions, September 1

The Avid Reader, September 2

For Him and My Family, September 2

deb’s Book Review, September 3

Simple Harvest Reads, September 3 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 4

Blogging With Carol, September 4

Betti Mace, September 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 5

Blossoms and Blessings, September 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 6

lakesidelivingsite, September 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 7

Connie’s History Classroom, September 8

Mary Hake, September 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 9

Through the Fire Blogs, September 9

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 10

Bigreadersite, September 11

Pause for Tales, September 11

For the Love of Literature, September 12

Labor Not in Vain, September 12

Remembrancy, September 13

To Everything There Is A Season, September 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Allison is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon E-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/210cb/laura-s-shadow-celebration-tour-giveaway

Dial W for Wrangler Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Dial W for Wrangler

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Fiction / Christian / Romance / Contemporary / Comedy

Release date: May 24, 2022

♥ Can one radio show host wrangle two hearts and help them beat as one? ♥

When Wade Garrett took over the family ranch, he knew he’d need help. He can tell you anything you need to know about breeding, raising, and selling cattle. He can even wrangle a wild horse or ten every year. He just can’t wrangle numbers into proper columns and have them all add up.

Enter Ainsley Jones. New in Sweetwater, the office manager from Los Angeles is out of her element and loves every second of it—except the moments when her boss can’t speak a civil word to her.

When Wade hears about the local Dial-a-Deal host and her ad-hock romantic advice success, he starts selling off everything he can find—even sneaks a few things out of Granny’s basement—just to have an excuse to call in and get Vi’s help.

Will this impromptu decluttering jag get rid of some of his personal baggage along with twenty sleeping bags and an antique egg scale? Enough for him to admit that she’s the one thing he doesn’t want to declutter from his life or his heart?

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:
Dial W for Wrangler By Chautona Havig is part of the You Are On The Air Series. The series is comprised of standalone novels that involve romance that is impacted by Radio Talk shows.

What I think about this book:
I am a huge Chautona Havig fan and read almost everything that she writes. I LOVE the concept of this book! While my area does not have a Dial -a- Dial type show (that I know of )I do watch a TV show based on a similar program and LOVE the variety of the show. Vi made a wonderful host and I loved getting to see her side of the story and how she tried juggling keeping her boss happy while still helping her listeners . Wade Garett was such an easy character to love, I was quickly rooting for him. Ainsley was a much harder character for me to like, it took until almost the end of the book for me to really understand and like her character. Granny however was such a fun character for me, she is someone who I would love to spend time with in real life! I loved this book and will read more from the series.

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

About the Author

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

Stay Tuned for This Radio Announcement

“Hello there. I’m Vi Willis with Dial-a-Deal on K-SWT out of Sweetwater County, Wyoming, and have I got an update for you.

“We’ve won an award! My boss is livid that it’s not for selling the most junk in the least amount of time, but hey. Can I help it if folks are tuning in from all over the country to listen in on the heart troubles of folks around here? So far, we’re credited with three engagements, six marriages, and a whopping thirty-five saved relationships! I don’t know who nominated us for that award, but thank you!

“Now look… there’s one small problem. This really is supposed to be a show for selling your old comic book collection or that garden wagon your husband just had to have until he discovered he really hates gardening. So, when you call in, can you please be sure you have an item to sell? Di, the operator who screens the calls? She’s under orders not to let any calls through without an actual item for sale.

“So declutter the junk from your closets, your garages, your barns and what have you as you try to declutter the troubles from your life, okay? Now… I’ve got Jeff Corbin on the line, let’s see what he’s got for us today….”

And that’s how it all started.

Well, sort of. You see, I spent six weeks at my mom’s house back in late 2019. And one of the things Mom did every day was listen to the Dial-a-Trade show. She never bought a thing, but she listened. And, since I was in the room, I learned a lot about that show.

Some people seemed to call a few times a week. I finally decided they were lonely and it was how they kept a connection with other people. Others were obviously selling things out of spite—ex boyfriends, girlfriends, or spouses beware!

Basically, it was a great way to get rid of stuff and a great way to figure out what was going on in the lives of folks in the area.

So, when Lisa Prysock reminded me that she’d invited me to be a part of this series, I knew immediately that my first book would most definitely include a radio host for a sale show who just can’t help but solve people’s relational problems.

Blog Stops

Pause for Tales, August 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 22

Texas Book-aholic, August 23

Lots of Helpers, August 24

Inklings and notions, August 25

Holly’s Book Corner, August 25

For Him and My Family, August 26

deb’s Book Review, August 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 28

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 29

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 31

An Author’s Take, September 1

She Lives to Read, September 1

Blogging With Carol, September 2

Simple Harvest Reads, September 3 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Sodbuster Living, September 4

Spoken from the Heart, September 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a paperback 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/20e10/dial-w-for-wrangler-celebration-tour-giveaway

Hidden Danger Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Hidden Danger

Author: Jerusha Agen

Genre: Romantic Suspense (Christian)

Release date: November 8, 2021

The greatest threat to this K-9 team is the one they don’t see coming.

Cora Isaksson’s guilt has shadowed her life ever since drugs ensnared her brother and he disappeared. When Bradley suddenly returns, Cora and her narcotics detection K-9 are thrust into a battle against the drug cartel that wants him back.

DEA Special Agent Kent Thomson has his own personal reasons for bringing justice to the cartel. Cora and her drug-sniffing K-9 will only get in his way. Or are they assets that will enable him to right the wrongs of the past?

When the cartel targets Cora, she and Kent join forces with her teammates at the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency to end the cartel before it ends her. They’re prepared for danger, but when more lives than their own hang in the balance, can they trust God for the rescue that’s out of their reach?

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Hidden Danger by Jerusha Agen is a Christian Romantic Suspense. It is the first book in the Guardians Unleashed Series. I would recommend that you read Rising Danger by Agen prior to this book as it introduces many key members of the series in the Ladies of Phoenix K-9 group. This book features Cora Isaksson and her K-9 Jana.

What I think about this book:

I fell in love with the Phoenix group in a previous novel. I was excited to read more about Cora and her K-9 Jana. Agen delivered an action packed adventure with realistic characters. Kent Thomson, DEA Agent, and Cora made an interesting team as they tracked the cartel that kidnapped Cora at the start of the story. I loved Cora’s faith and unique way of caring for those around her, both “good and bad”. I Love the Phoenix K-9 group and am so excited to read more about each of the ladies (and their dogs).This was a wonderful story that leaves me anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!

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

About the Author

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner, but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies. Find more of Jerusha’s thrilling, fear-fighting stories at JerushaAgen.com.

More from Jerusha

Hi, readers! Have you ever noticed how dog owners and their canines can seem to look alike? This tendency was illustrated hilariously in 101 Dalmations, the original animated movie. I had fun creating a similar match in my romantic suspense novel, Hidden Danger.

Hidden Danger features Cora Isaksson and her narcotics detection K-9 Jana who partner with a handsome DEA agent to take on a drug cartel targeting the Twin Cities and her brother’s life.

As the securities technologies specialist at the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency, Cora is known by her teammates as the sweetest of them all. Her Christian witness comes through loud and clear as she lives it out daily. But she also has an uncanny ability to understand others and show empathy—a gift that enables her to persuade and influence even hardened criminals, at times.

Cora’s perfect match is Jana. A beautiful golden retriever, Jana matches her blonde human partner’s angelic appearance and personality. Whether searching for narcotics or meeting new people, Jana exhibits an obvious joy and gentle spirit. The sweet golden retriever also seems to share Cora’s intuition and can sense the emotional needs of people. Jana doesn’t hesitate to offer a soft head to stroke or just her calming, gentle presence whenever someone needs comfort.

While Cora came to my imagination for Hidden Danger mostly from scratch, Jana was inspired by a real-life model. Before I was born, my parents got their first dog as a newly-married couple—a golden retriever puppy they named Jana.

From day one, Jana was the most perfect dog imaginable. She instantly housetrained herself and was, according to my parents’ stories, a perfectly obedient and trainable pup. The only thing she ever did that was less than desirable was chew a hole in a wall. But considering that was prompted by fear when lightning struck a radio in the room where Jana was alone, one could hardly blame her for wanting to escape.

When my parents started having children, Jana remained the ideal dog. Gentle and sweet with everyone, including a passel of babies and toddlers, Jana was a calm and comforting presence in the lives of those who knew her.

I can’t recall any memories of Jana myself, as I was very young when she passed away. But I love looking at a photo my parents have, of Jana next to me when I was a baby in a cradle. Though I don’t remember her, she left a legacy that has deeply impacted my life.

Because of how wonderful she was, my parents continued to have golden retrievers, giving me the blessing of growing up with one of the best breeds in the world. These goldens showed me how special dogs are and the incredible gift it is to love and be loved by a dog. I thank God for bringing Jana into our lives because of the legacy she left. And I’m grateful for the chance to honor her in Hidden Danger.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 20

Hallie Reads, August 20

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 22

Betti Mace, August 22

lakesidelivingsite, August 23

deb’s Book Review, August 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 25

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 25

Inklings and notions, August 26

For Him and My Family, August 27

Blogging With Carol, August 28

Mary Hake, August 28

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

Texas Book-aholic, August 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 31

Inkwell Inspirations, August 31

CarpeDiem, September 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jerusha is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Barnes and Noble gift card, one signed copy of Hidden Danger, and book swag!!

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/20e0b/hidden-danger-celebration-tour-giveaway

Book, Chapter, & Vows Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Book, Chapter, & Vows

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: July 26, 2022

Falling in love with Benjamin wasn’t in the plan, but Mallory finds she’s all but lost her head and her heart after two and a half years of banter, memories, and now shared books.

But when her ex-fiance (does it count if it was just for a few hours?) shows up right in the middle of a writing project with Benjamin, the guy manages to ruin her happiness… again.

Benjamin has been keeping one tiny part of him back from Mallory–just the one thing that’ll repel her for good.
So when the ex-boyfriend-slash-fiance shows up, and things look serious again, he takes a giant step back and prays he can keep his heart intact in the process.

They’re clearly meant for each other. God obviously has a plan. So what’s it going to take for Mallory and Benjamin to work things out and get those vows made?

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

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Book, Chapter and Vows by Chautona Havig is her book in the Independence Island Series and the first book to feature Breakers Head. I feel it would be best enjoyed if you have read the previous Islands before starting this one. This book once again features Ben and Mallory.

What I think about this book:

I have been anxiously awaiting the conclusion to Mallory and Benjamin’s story for what seems like forever. Havig made it well worth the wait, she definitely threw a twist in the story that I did not expect with Mallory’s former fiance, but I loved seeing Mallory and Benjamin grow closer. I enjoyed the mystery of Uncle Bud. My favorite quote in the book was “My love language is books.”. While I am sad to see the series come to an end I am excited to see what comes next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

More from Chautona

It Happened AGAIN!

I remember the first book I had trouble finishing. Beneath the Cloak. It was the last book of the Wynnewood series, and I was dying to reveal the big secret that had been a big part of the story line. I spent hours writing very few words. Someone asked if I had writer’s block, but I didn’t. I knew every word I wanted to put on that page, but I kept procrastinating.

For weeks. We’re talking long, agonizing weeks.

Finally, I realized a significant part of why I hadn’t finished was because I didn’t want to. I didn’t want the series to end. Say goodbye to beloved characters? Agony, okay? I wanted to spend the rest of my life in Wynnewood seeing what happened with all the characters and all the things that would happen.

I just wanted to write a bunch of other books, too. What can I say? It’s a thing.

So, as I dove into writing the book I’ve been dying to write since I penned the opening scene of Christmas on Breakers Point, you’d think I’d have been prepared for the inevitable. I mean, it’s happened with several other series since that first time, so… yeah. All ready to combat the problem, right? Not hardly.

To be fair, I was also coming off being very sick, my mother being even sicker, so being crazy behind on everything. I mean, that had a lot to do with it taking so long to get going on it. But once I did, I’d type like crazy and then ignore it for a day or two before the story demanded more telling.

Then, just as I neared the big scene of Book, Chapter, & Vows… I went nuts on doing everything but finishing that book. No joke. I did. Sigh. Again, you think I’d learn.

After much soul searching and even more wailing at God about the cruelty of it all (I was in a dramatic mood, okay?), the solution came to me. Okay, God smacked me upside the head with a 2×4 of memories on how I solved every other, “don’t wanna finish this series” crisis.

See, way back with Wynnewood, the only thing that got me to the finish line was a promise I made to myself. “It doesn’t have to end here. You can write more if you want to. There’s nothing to say you can do ‘Wynnewood, the Later Years’ or something like that.”

Just that one promise to myself that I didn’t have to say goodbye was all it took for me to get back on that trusty old Toshiba laptop and pound out those last few chapters.

And here I was again, not ready to say goodbye to a series—to these islands that feel so crazy real to me. I didn’t want to say goodbye to the characters and their quirky ways. Would you?

Now… you’re going to laugh at me. Go ahead. I mean, I did. See here’s the deal. I didn’t have to make that promise to myself again. “What?” you say? “What do you mean?”

Yeah. I don’t have to say goodbye to the characters or the islands. Why? Because we have another island series coming, the Suamalie Islands, and Mallory is going to visit those islands.

If that isn’t enough for me, I have another series all planned for the Independence Islands, too! Yeah. That. I mean, what was I not thinking?

As soon as I thought of that, I was able to get in there, get the last few scenes written and pass it off to the fabulous Christy for her editorial magic. As for me, I think I’m going to go play around just a little bit with one of the Josie Parker Mysteries. I mean, why not?