Death Valley Hideout Review and Giveaway

Death Valley Hideout

About the Book

Book: Death Valley Hideout

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Christian fiction

Release date: April 26, 2022

DV#4 cover, death valley hideoutRunning from a murderer

with only the desert as refuge…

Placed in WITSEC while his brother testifies against a terrifying criminal, Tony Ortega must guard his young niece and nephew from the hit man hunting for them. Death Valley local Willow Duke’s hideout might just be the difference between the little family’s life or death. When bullets start flying, can they thwart a killer long enough to survive and become a family for real?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:
Death Valley Hideout, a Romantic Suspense by Dana Mentink is the fourth book in the Desert Justice series. This book does give updates and spoilers for the characters in the previous books, while it could be read as a standalone I would recommend reading the other books in the series first. This book features Willow Duke and her friend Tony.

What I think about this book:
Mentink always takes her readers on a fast paced adventure.  It was interesting to get to know Willow and her nurturing heart. It was hard to read how she had lost trust in herself.  Tony was a complex character, he was torn between his devotion for his family, wanting to be different from his past and his desire for a future of his choosing. I really enjoyed Carter and Bee, they were delightful and very well written! I loved this installment in the series and can’t wait to see what happens next in Death Valley!

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 graphicDana 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.)

 

More from Dana

Wooty woo! We’re back in Death Valley again! So excited about this fourth book in the series because Papa Bear and I have actually returned to this amazing place. (Our previous return trip was stalled for a while due to the virus that shall not be named!) People have asked me, “Why do you love Death Valley so much?” I can only respond that you just have to go there to understand. Is it the vastness of the place? The enormous topographical variety? Maybe it’s the profound quietness that permeates the national park and environs. Then again, it might be the panorama of nighttime stars. (Death Valley National Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park due to its limited light pollution.) Could it be the tenacity of people who live there and survive the one hundred twenty plus degree temperatures in the summer? And how about those animals? The Death Valley pupfish is a teeny little endangered fish that lives in precisely one spot on the globe (Death Valley) and only two places within that range, Salt Creek and Cottonball Marsh. Imagine that! So why set a six book series in Death Valley? Because there’s no more hostile and incredible place I can think of. I hope you will enjoy taking a fictional trip with me there too. Enjoy the adventure, reader friends!

Blog Stops

Remembrancy, April 21

Texas Book-aholic, April 21

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 22

Bigreadersite, April 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 23

Life, Love, Writing, April 24

For Him and My Family, April 24

Betti Mace, April 25

Inklings and notions, April 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 26

EmpowerMoms, April 26

deb’s Book Review, April 27

Blogging With Carol, April 27

For the Love of Literature, April 28

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 28

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 29

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

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 30

Vicarious Living, April 30

Bizwings Blog, May 1

Blossoms and Blessings, May 1

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 2

Paula’s Persuasion, May 2

Labor Not in Vain, May 3

Through the Fire Blogs, May 3

Pause for Tales, May 4

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, May 4

To Everything There Is A Season, May 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize package of the first four books in the series-Framed in Death Valley, Missing in the Desert, Death Valley Doublecross and Death Valley Hideout (Paperback for U.S. Only) 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/1d0af/death-valley-hideout-celebration-tour-giveaway

Copenhagen Cozenage Author Interview and Giveaway

Copenhagen Cozenage

About the Book

Book: Copenhagen Cozenage

Author: Kristen Joy Wilks

Genre: Christian Fiction

Release date: September, 2015

9781611164688Morgan Ravn arrives in Denmark seeking clues about her mysterious heritage. What she finds is a flirtatious stranger who regales her with a story about a jewel thief from 1958 and then abandons her with a large unruly dog. Can Morgan locate the irresponsible pet owner before his monstrous canine drags her through every puddle in Copenhagen and sheds all over her last dress? And why are strangers dogging her every step, snapping photos? Is the shutter happy behavior a bizarre Danish custom or something more sinister?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

KristenJoyWilks1Kristen Joy Wilks lives in the beautiful woods of the Cascade mountains with her camp director husband, three fierce sons, and a large and slobbery Newfoundland dog. She spent her misguided youth falling in love with Commander Spock via Star Trek reruns, being suspended upside down over a homemade pit filled with gardener snakes, and stampeding herds of elk while on horseback. Now most of her adventures consist of preventing her hubby from filling another wall of their dining room with board games, thwarting her 3 boys’ efforts to sneak their pet chickens onto their bunk beds whenever she turns her back to fold laundry, and trying not to trip over the random teenagers that swarm her house to play all those board games.

 

More from Kristen Joy

Have you ever gotten stuck with someone else’s luggage? How about someone else’s dog? Let’s make that someone else’s ill-mannered, 150lb, Newfoundland dog!

 

Yes, Morgan, my poor heroine just wanted to discover her roots during a calm tour of Copenhagen, Denmark. What she gets … a wild chase through a foreign city with a giant and hairy beast in tow!

 

We have owned two wonderful Newfoundland dogs and they are truly gentle giants … once they grow up. But that training process is a sight to behold when your “puppy” weighs 100lbs before he reaches his first birthday and doesn’t even notice you bouncing along behind him as he charges for the lake.

 

Our first Newfoundland, Shamu, ended up weighing a hefty 163lbs in his prime and was a handful for those first few training years. Thus, I have taken some of our crazy dog stories and used them to harass my hapless heroine during her Danish vacation. Shamu would gallop toward any body of water he spotted. A lake, river, nice fountain, you name it! If you happened to be dragged along with him, he didn’t mind. The more the merrier! Don’t worry, there is plenty of water in Copenhagen to tempt a fun-loving Newfoundland dog. One might see various fountains, a paddle boat pond in Tivoli Gardens, or even a restaurant that is actually a pirate ship floating on a lake. Add a bunch of dog hair and slobber and this crazy RomCom hits a bit close to home for someone who actually owns a Newfoundland dog.

 

As a prize, I’m offering notecards that feature our current Newfy (Princess Leia Freyja) in all her hairy glory as well as a box of Danish chocolates and a paperback copy of the book.

May your day be full of adventure … but not quite as much as Morgan endures in Copenhagen Cozenage. God Bless!

 

In His Hands,

 

Kristen

Mindy’s Q&A with Kristen Joy Wilks

What inspired this book?

Ha! Well, I actually wrote this book on a dare. I’d been writing Christian YA and picture book manuscripts for thirteen years without success and my sister-in-law saw that an editor at our yearly writer’s conference wanted novella-length romances. I had never written a romance, but had been practicing my writing craft for over a decade. She dared me to write one and I did and they loved it! It turned into a romantic comedy … because I discovered that I cannot write straight romance to save my life. There must be something funny to keep me on my toes. Also, we owned a 163lb Newfoundland dog who totally dragged us through all of the puddles and rivers and lakes during his training phase and so I thought that would be a great way to give my poor heroine some peril. I love the combination of fun pets and romantic comedy craziness.

What is your favorite verse of life verse?

Jonah 3:1—“The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time.” Aren’t you glad that God doesn’t give up on us? Not even when we go on a crazy sailing trip away from him, almost die, get swallowed by a fish, get puked up, and then just stand there covered in yuck staring up at heaven. That is the point where this verse occurs in the story and it does my heart good to know that God is like this. Sending his word, again, to angry Jonah who didn’t want God’s mercy spilling over onto the Ninevites. But God didn’t let Jonah stay in the safety of thinking the Ninevites were too dangerous, too terrible, had done too much evil to be shown love. God is so amazing!

Describe your view as you’re sitting in your writing chair?

I live at a remote Bible camp in the Cascade mountains. My writing chair is actually a big cushy thing in the living room. It has three little shelves on the wall nearby so that I have a spot for coffee and peanuts and books. I have a little lamp and a table covered in more books. The windows look out onto a hillside covered in pine and fir and a little path that twists through the woods up to the camp’s upper cabins and our terrifying tube hill.

What is your vacation spot?

Our family goes camping every year. Often, we camp at the beach at Ocean Shores, WA. Our three sons are big Calvin and Hobbs fans and so every year we have a tradition. On each day of our camping trip, we head out to the beach as the tide is coming in. The three boys, and sometimes their dad and I, all build “Stupidopolis” or some kind of sand city or sand structure. Then when the waves crash in, the sand structure that lasts the longest wins! This is in honor of Calvin building Stupidopolis by the shore and waiting for its destruction. We do this even during storms. They love it!

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

Besides my Bible, I would want the Inkheart trilogy by Cornelia Funke because it is just epic and lovely and both rends the heart and makes it soar. Or maybe all the How to Train Your Dragon books by Cressida Cowell because they make me laugh so hard and then turn around and make me weep with the sheer simple beauty of the characters heroic moments, victories, sacrifices, and growth.

Thank you, Kristen, for letting us get to know you better!

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 16 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 16

Texas Book-aholic, April 17

Inklings and notions, April 18

For Him and My Family, April 19

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 20 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, April 21

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

Artistic Nobody, April 23 (Spotlight)

Guild Master, April 24

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 25

Simple Harvest Reads, April 26 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 27

Splashes of Joy, April 28 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 28

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kristen is giving away the grand prize package of a box of Ingeborg’s Danish chocolates, plus six blank notecards with Newfoundland dog photos on the front, 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/1cc81/copenhagen-cozenage-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Marquis’s Pursuit Review and Giveaway

The Marquis's Pursuit

About the Book

Book: The Marquis’s Pursuit

Author: Lorri Dudley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: April 12, 2022

The Marquis's Pursuit (1)She’s desperate to keep her secret hidden, but he’s a determined Marquis.

As the son of a duke, Maxwell Oliver Weld, Marquis of Daventry, is allowed entry into the finest of London’s ballrooms, access to political figures, and advice from the best physicians. Yet, his wealth and contacts won’t heal his friend, Charlie, who’s dying from consumption. Hopeful for a miracle, Max persuades Charlie to sail across the Atlantic to stay in the Artesian Hotel on the island of Nevis and bathe in its famous healing springs. Max’s optimism is washed in doubt as the truth unravels about the hotel, its hot springs, and the beautiful caretaker.

The blaze of Evelyn Mairi Sheraton’s fiery side has long since been snuffed out. Hunted by a vengeful man from her past, only fortitude and the island’s sanctuary have kept Evelyn alive. She will do whatever it takes to keep her precious secret safe, even work for the demeaning Artesian Hotel owner, Edward Rousseau. However, when a jaunty marquis and his ailing friend arrive, sparks ignite, but Evelyn fears the revealing of her secrets will burn her to ash.

The elusive Evelyn may tend to Charlie’s well-being, but she stirs Max’s protective nature. He’d like nothing more than to remove her from the wretched employment of Edward Rousseau, yet that might endanger Charlie’s health even more. Refusing to give up on a miracle, Max waters her guarded heart, certain beauty will rise out of ashes. But when her secrets come to life, will love be worth the price?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

The Marquis’s Pursuit by Lorri Dudley is a Christian Historical Fiction . It is the fifth book in the Leeward Island Series. This book features Max who was a boy in the first book in the series. I highly recommend that you read at least the first book in the series prior to reading this book. Max returns to his childhood home on Nevis in an attempt to find a cure for his best friend.

 

What you might need to know:

Evelyn was abused prior to the start of this story, but it does tell about some of the things that happened to her.

 

***Spoiler***

Charlie is dying, as much as I didn’t want him and and as much I wanted the author to come up with a cure for him, she didn’t and while I was heartbroken I love the strength and peace that Charlie showed in the face of death. Although he did not get the ending that I wanted his character and the grace he demonstrated will stick with me for a long time.

****

What I think about this story:

This may be my favorite book in this series yet! I always love revisiting characters that I already know. It was very interesting to see Max as an adult instead of the young boy that we knew in the first book. Evelyn is trying to overcome mistakes of her past and protect her daughter at all cost. I love this story of healing and forgiveness.

 

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

LorriDudleyProfilePicLorri 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

Some characters whisper to an author from the recesses of their imagination. For me, Maxell Weld, the Marquis of Daventry, commanded to have his story told. Max appears in my first book, The Duke’s Refuge, as a sure-of-himself, fixated-on-fishing, eight-year-old son of the island schoolmaster who happened to be a Duke in hiding. Now Max is grown, and although he still holds the same quirky characteristics of his youth, he bears the weight of being a marquis and the responsibility of adulthood.

The duty to care for and protect those he loves prompts Max to return to the Leeward Islands to save his closest mate, Charlie. He’s confident that God, with a bit of help from the famous healing springs in Nevis, will save Max’s life. However, Charlie has his own plans to unite the caring but secretive hotel caretaker, Evelyn Sheraton, with his buddy Max.

In the middle of writing, The Marquis’s Pursuit, my cousin passed away suddenly. He was newly married, in his early thirties, and in the process of renovating a house when he became sick. He started losing weight, and before doctors could figure out what was wrong, he went into organ failure and died. My heart still aches for those he left behind, especially his wife and my aunt and uncle.

As I wrote, the lines between fiction and reality blurred, and it’s hard to believe my tears didn’t fry out my laptop as I typed. But I’m grateful for how God used Max’s journey to help me to process why bad things happen, and how ultimately, God has a bigger plan that, at times, we can’t see or fathom.

God doesn’t always work in straight lines. Sometimes we must battle problems and issues to touch as many people as possible on our journey toward heaven. Stories, especially romances in my opinion, broaden our understanding of how those we love comfort and carry us through illness, pain, and sorrow. Max and Evelyn reminded me to stay anchored to those we love, lean on each other’s faith, and most importantly, that love conquers all.

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

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 13

Remembrancy, April 14

She Lives To Read, April 14

For Him and My Family, April 15

Texas Book-aholic, April 16

Miriam Jacob, April 16

Inklings and notions, April 17

Betti Mace, April 18

Genesis 5020, April 19

Life of Literature, April 20

deb’s Book Review, April 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 21

Connie’s History Classroom, April 22

Blossoms and Blessings, April 23

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 23

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

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 26

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/1cc7d/the-marquis-s-pursuit-celebration-tour-giveaway

Unfortunate Homecoming Review and Giveaway

Unfortunate Homecoming

About the Book

Book: Unfortunate Homecoming

Author: Sherri Wilson Johnson

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Release date: April 5, 2022

Unfortunate Homecoming final 11.7.21Renovating the old family home and living on the quiet Magnolia River in Magnolia Springs, Alabama sounded perfect to Shaun Bartley. But when trespassing treasure hunters threaten not only his life but his ex-wife’s life too, will he fight for what is his or forfeit the fortune in order to save their lives?

After ten years on the Okefenokee Swamp as a fishing guide, Shaun Bartley returns home to conduct tours on the Magnolia River and to renovate his great great-grandfather’s old home. When Deputy Fire Marshal and volunteer fire fighter Sierra Beaumont, Shaun’s ex-wife, warns him about deadly treasure hunters who will kill for a chance to explore his property, he thinks she’s trying to run him out of town. When he discovers she’s pregnant with twins by her recently deceased second husband, Shaun can’t help but want to be there for her. But Sierra’s heart has been broken twice, and she’d rather raise the children alone than be abandoned again.

Shaun must deal with his past and find a way for Sierra to forgive him or risk losing any chance he may have at winning back her heart. Since keeping her safe means keeping her far from his home and the trespassers, yet she is the Fire Marshal assigned to his case, it will take a miracle for them to survive.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Unfortunate Homecoming is a Christian Contemporary Romantic Suspense by Sherri Wilson Johnson. It is a standalone in the Jeopardized Reunion Series. In the book Shaun Bartley unexpectedly reunites with his ex-wife, Sierra.

 

What you might need to know:

Sierra’s estranged husband died during a rescue call that went wrong. She is pregnant with his twins.

 

What I think about this book:

This second chance romance was such a rollercoaster of emotion. Shaun’s life was turned upside down when he was left with nerve damage from a snake bite.  I really enjoyed getting to know his character. Sierra has a lot of hurt that she is dealing with. It is interesting to see Sierra and Shaun dance around each other throughout the book. The mystery and suspense were really well done, the author kept the story moving at a rapid pace, but still allowed the background to unfold naturally.  I love the way that the author weaved Shaun’s faith into the story and allowed him to show Sierra that he had changed from the man that she knew.  This is the first book I have read by Johnson, but it will definitely not be the last.

 

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

2017-kjp-2 smallSherri Wilson Johnson is an Inspirational Romance novelist and graphic designer. She lives in Georgia with her husband and their two dogs, and they are empty-nesters. Sherri loves spending time with family, vacationing at the beach, curling up with a good book or working on her current work-in-progress. She dreams of a second home on some beach somewhere some day, where she can plot romantically suspenseful novels all day and night.

 

More from Sherri

Unfortunate Homecoming is comprised of many of my favorite things: Historic houses, a water source (river, lake or the ocean—it doesn’t matter!), men with beards, strong female heroines who get things done while still being tender, a murder or crime of some sort, and faith! Oh, and a secret that takes until the end of the book to figure out. I love a good mystery and a page-turning suspense. I hope this story is that for you!

 

This is book three in my Jeopardized Reunions series, which is set in the Mobile Bay area of Alabama. This particular story is set in Magnolia Springs, Alabama, a gorgeous, quaint town with less than 1,000 residents. It’s a dreamy place that I was fortunate enough to visit while on my vacation in August of 2021, and I will return there next week for a book signing at the local library.

 

My heroine is a Deputy Fire Marshall and a Lieutenant in the Magnolia Springs Volunteer Fire Department. I was thrilled when a Lieutenant who helped me with my research invited me for a tour of the actual fire department in my book. What was even more exciting was the fact that while I was there on the tour, they got a call and left me at the station! I promise I didn’t get into too much trouble, haha! The smalltown charm was definitely present and so authentic that day.

 

You can see my pictures and video from my visit here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CSuoaEVp53p/

 

I hope you will consider checking out Unfortunate Homecoming and the other books in the series, all set on Mobile Bay and all written as standalones. The common thread? They are all reunion romances. So while my characters have a past that tore them apart, they have the promise of a future.

 

I’d love it of you’d follow me on social media and join my subscriber list. I’m always excited to hear from readers!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 11

Life, love, writing, April 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 12

Texas Book-aholic, April 13

Inklings and notions, April 14

An Author’s Take, April 15

Blogging With Carol, April 15

For Him and My Family, April 16

deb’s Book Review, April 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 18

Older & Smarter?, April 19

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 20

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 21 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 23

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

 

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sherri is giving away the grand prize package 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/1c94f/unfortunate-homecoming-celebration-tour-giveaway

Madness in Wonderland Review and Giveaway

Madness of Wonderland

About the Book

Book: Madness in Wonderland

Author: Tabitha Bouldin

Genre: Fantasy, Steampunk, Christian

Release date: March 8, 2022

Madness in Wonderland CoverWonderland is in trouble.

Under the rule of the Red Queen, Wonderland is under constant threat. In fear for her throne, children are taken into the queen’s army and only the strongest survive.

Alice is nothing but a pirate, but with the help of Hatter, they hatch a plan to sneak into the Red Queen’s palace to free Hatter’s sister. After all, Alice has always wanted to fly an airship.

Dr. Frank N. Stein has created an army of automatons to serve their queen. Of particular note: a prototype soldier. Part man. Part machine. The best of both worlds.

Doc’s monster is a threat to everything they know, but Alice sees something in the man that begs she look beyond what he’s done and search out the heart of the beast for the better of the realm.

He’s their only hope of survival, but how can a monster learn to love when all he’s known is hate?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna Cline

What I think you should know:

Madness in Wonderland by Tabitha Bouldin is the first book in the Beyond Wonderland Series.  It is a Fantasy, Steampunk, retelling/ mashup with a Christian perspective. This story is a combo of Alice In Wonderland and Frankenstein.

 

What I think about this book:

I have never been the biggest fan of  Alice In Wonderland, but I am a huge fan of Bouldin and love a good mashup/ retelling so I was excited to give this version a try. I am so glad that I did, this was a delightful retelling that kept enough original details to make it recognizable while giving it enough action and originality to captivate me.  Between Alice, Hatter and Alpha there were so many wonderful characters in this story, it was really hard for me to pick a favorite, each character weaved together to make the perfect combination for this unforgettable story.  I can’t wait to read the next addition to 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

TabithaTabitha Bouldin has a bachelor’s degree in creative writing/English from Southern New Hampshire University. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has been writing since 2015. When she’s not homeschooling her kids, you’ll find her curled up with a book. Tabitha’s genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart.

 

More from Tabitha

Madness in Wonderland is a story of found family, good versus evil, rambunctious heroines and strong heroes who are not afraid to leap across airships for their people.

Trust me when I say I’ve tested their loyalty.

I put the Wonder’s crew through so much I started feeling sorry for them. Then I had another airship shoot at them with their cannons. That’s when I knew this story was not only a source of entertainment for me, but it was also challenging me. Madness forced me to become a better writer. Each page demanded my full attention if I wanted to have any hope of catching the true vibes of the story and bringing them to the page.

When I first started writing Madness, I had a rough idea of what I wanted. Evil Queen. Check. Alice as a tough but loving heroine. Check. Frankenstein’s monster. Check. (What’s Wonderland without a little havoc?)

Then the characters took over the story.

Frankenstein’s monster didn’t want to be a monster.

Hatter wanted to be more than a mad side character.

Alice wanted everyone to get along without losing another crew member.

Meeting their demands was a challenge and the story shifted from a whimsical fairy tale to something more. It dove deeper than I planned and showed me that I can do hard things too.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, April 5

Where Faith and Books Meet, April 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 6

Inklings and notions, April 7

By the Book, April 8

For Him and My Family, April 8

deb’s Book Review, April 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 10

April Hayman, Author, April 10

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 11

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

Snark and Sensibility, April 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 13

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

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, April 14

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 15

Christina’s Corner, April 15

cats in the cradle blog, April 16

Mary Hake, April 16

Sylvan Musings, April 17

Back Porch Reads, April 18

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/1c57b/madness-in-wonderland-celebration-tour-giveaway

Dial E for Endearment Review and Giveaway

Dial E

About the Book

Book: Dial E for Endearment

Author: Heidi Gray McGill

Genre: Sweet Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: February 1, 2022

Dial E for EndearmentEverly Johnson is every man’s dream of the perfect date, even though none of her audience has met her. As host for the Choose Joy segment of JOY Radio in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, she receives countless gifts of flowers and candy on behalf of her admires, which she promptly donates to her mother’s assisted living facility. What Everly wants are words–heartfelt, meaningful endearments meant for her ears only. She wants a man who will open her eyes to everything she cannot see to make her feel more than just the voice behind the mic.

Cameron Boyd struggles to make eye contact with anyone, let alone say something coherent unless it is the one-way conversation he has each Friday with Everly Johnson. Date night for Cam involves sitting alone on his back porch overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains while he dreams of things to say if he were ever to call in to her show.

A chance meeting changes everything.

Will Cam be able to step out of his comfort zone and into the world he has only been able to envision in his mind? Will Everly trust this stranger with her life as well as her heart?

Tune into JOY Radio to find out!

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Dial E for Endearment by Heidi Gray McGill is a Sweet Contemporary Romance Novella. It is part of the You Are on the Air series. It can be read as a standalone.

 

What you might need to know:

Everly has Retinitis Pigmentosa and is blind. I love how the author included descriptions of her surroundings from Everly’s character, they were rich and really enhanced her portion of the story!

Evie’s mother has Breast Cancer.

 

What I think about this book:

This was a really sweet story with some deep topics packed into it.  Evie was such a unique character, I appreciate how the author shows that Evie is just like everyone else and that her disability does not define her.  Cam , while overall a good character left me frustrated at times. Max, the dog was such a fun addition to the story, he helped provide such a fun meet cute! I wish that the timeline and length of the story were a little bit longer so that the author was able to give us more of the story, however I really enjoyed what was given to us.  I will read more in this series and by this author 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

Author Image 2021Heidi is an optimist who chooses to find the silver lining in life’s clouds of doubt. This plays out in her writing. Her ability to seamlessly weave scripture into the lives of her characters will uplift and encourage you, while her masterful storytelling will keep you turning page after page and wishing for more.

 

Heidi lives with her husband of thirty years near Charlotte, NC. When she isn’t writing, you will find her outside playing with her two grandsons, walking, scrapbooking, reading, cooking, traveling, or finding an excuse to have an outing with a girlfriend.

 

More from Heidi

Everly, the main character in Dial E for Endearment and I have something in common, but it may not be what you’d expect. As Blowing Rock, NC’s JOY Radio talk show host, Everly has discovered fulfillment, but she hasn’t found love, at least not for her—not even from her mother. In Dial E for Endearment, Everly wants words–heartfelt, meaningful endearments meant for her ears only. She wants a man who will open her eyes to everything she cannot see to make her feel more than just the voice behind the mic.

You may know me as an author, but did you know I am also the retired Director and Founder of an ESL program, regularly walk 12 plus miles a week, care for my grandsons, scrapbook, read voraciously, cook, and am legally blind? That last phrase was difficult for me to say out loud not that long ago.

Vision loss does not discriminate.

My diagnosis in 2001 of Retinitis Pigmentosa was devastating. There is no cure. There is no surgery. But that does not mean there is no hope.

I still have value.

Those who do not know me well often don’t realize I have low vision. As humans, we are amazingly adaptable, and I do a pretty good job covering up my disability. My friends have learned to watch out for me and alert me to potential pitfalls, some better than others, which is always good for a laugh. I use a cane when I’m navigating alone. I’ve traveled to China—that cane my only companion.

Being blind is certainly not something I would have chosen,

but it does not define me.

 

Join me on this fun adventure and see for yourself that God does not discriminate. You’ll laugh your way through mishaps–most of which may have happened to me at some point…although I’ll most likely deny if asked. But most of all, you’ll learn that we ALL have value, and that includes YOU.

February is Low Vision Awareness Month.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 8

I luv the books, April 8

Inklings and notions, April 9

For Him and My Family, April 10

Spoken from the Heart, April 10

Texas Book-aholic, April 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 12

deb’s Book Review, April 13

Simple Harvest Reads, April 13 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 14

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 15

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 16

Miriam Jacob, April 16

Bizwings Blog, April 17

Blossoms and Blessings, April 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 19

She Lives To Read, April 19

Aryn the Libraryan, April 20

Splashes of Joy, April 21

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 21

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Heidi is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon Gift card and a signed 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/1c94d/dial-e-for-endearment-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Pilgrim Legacy Spotlight and Giveaway

the pilgrim legacy

About the Book

Book: The Pilgrim Legacy

Author: Derek Prince

Genre: Religion/Christianity/History

Release date: November 16, 2021

9781641237680A story that must not be erased from America’s history or from the public squares of nations worldwide…

“In all the history of the world, as nations have arisen and fallen amid endless war and bloodshed, the founding of America was utterly unique,” writes Derek Prince. “Reaching the shores of an unknown wilderness, a small group of people planted seeds—not of military might, or wealth, or power, but seeds of faith and freedom. And those seeds took hold and grew.”

Such seeds affect the destinies of nations.

A nation participates in shaping its own destiny through the process of sowing and reaping: what nations sow, they will reap. If they seek to align themselves with God’s purposes, they will experience His favor and blessing. But if they seek to align themselves with purposes that are in opposition to God’s, they will not prosper.

Who were the Pilgrims? Why did they come to America? What difference did they make in the history of our country—and what does their legacy tell us about our country’s destiny?

The seeds sown by our Pilgrim ancestors 400 years ago continue to influence our culture and government. The basic principles by which they lived—beliefs in personal liberty, freedom of religion, and living in covenant with others—laid a strong foundation for America’s religious and political freedom. Without question, what the Pilgrims sowed, America has reaped as an abundant harvest.

Yet how long will the blessing of the Pilgrims’ influence continue? The light of this nation is still shining. But something is going wrong. Like a heavy, unanticipated fog, a spiritual darkness is gradually moving in to dim that light.

In The Pilgrim Legacy, internationally recognized Bible teacher and scholar Derek Prince discloses the biblical principles and tools at work in the lives of this small group of Christians who were, in a sense, the spiritual ancestors of the United States. It was these principles that not only helped to establish the nation but enabled America to be a stepping-stone in spreading the light of the gospel of the kingdom around the world.

By discovering and implementing the principles by which the Pilgrims lived, we can continue The Pilgrim Legacy today and preserve the spiritual destiny of our nation.

 

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

DerekPrinceBible scholar and spiritual patriarch Derek Prince (1915–2003) was educated as a scholar of classical languages at Eton College and Cambridge University in England, and later at Hebrew University in Israel. While serving in the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) during World War II, he began to study the Bible as a philosophical work and, as a result, experienced a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Derek Prince taught and ministered on six continents for more than sixty years, imparting God’s revealed truth, praying for the sick, and sharing his prophetic insights. He is the author of more than eighty books, six hundred audio teachings, and one hundred video teachings, many of which have been translated and published in more than one hundred languages. Prince pioneered teaching on such groundbreaking themes as generational curses, the biblical significance of Israel, and demonology. Derek Prince Ministries, with its international headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, carries on the good work that God began in and through him.

 

More from Whitaker House

In The Pilgrim Legacy, internationally recognized Bible teacher and scholar Derek Prince discloses the biblical principles and tools at work in the lives of this small group of Christians who were, in a sense, the spiritual ancestors of the United States. It was these principles that not only helped to establish the nation but enabled America to be a stepping-stone in spreading the light of the gospel of the kingdom around the world. By discovering and implementing the principles by which the Pilgrims lived, we can continue The Pilgrim Legacy today and preserve the spiritual destiny of our nation.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 28

Texas Book-aholic, March 29

Inklings and notions, March 30

For Him and My Family, March 31

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 1

deb’s Book Review, April 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 4

Artistic Nobody, April 5 (Spotlight)

Connie’s History Classroom, April 6

Cats in the Cradle Blog, April 7

Miriam Jacob, April 8

Vicky Sluiter, April 9

Simple Harvest Reads, April 10 (Spotlight)

Fiction Book Lover, April 11 (Spotlight)

Mary Hake, April 11

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Whitaker House is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks 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/1c10e/the-pilgrim-legacy-celebration-tour-giveaway

Death Valley Double Cross Review and Giveaway

Death Valley Doublecross

About the Book

Book: Death Valley Double Cross

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Suspense

Release date: February 22, 2022

DV#3 Death Valley Doublecross coverA killer seeking revenge

will stop at nothing to get it…

Pilar Jefferson is shocked to learn that her supposedly deceased father is alive and has been in prison—and now his ruthless former partner is after her. Fleeing on her wedding day was the best way to protect her loved ones. But now with her mother held for ransom and her ex-fiancé, Austin Duke, stumbling back into her life, can she keep everyone safe—and escape an assassin?

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

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna Cline

What I think you should know:
Death Valley Double Cross by Dana Mentink is the third 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. This book features Austin Duke, who was jilted at the altar and his former fiancé.

What I think about this book:
I can’t get enough of Furnace Falls, while it may be a small town, it is anything but sleepy! I LOVE his family’s fierce protection of him when Pilar returns. If there weren’t enough things to love about Austin when you add in his ragtag group of dogs, he will quickly become a favorite. Pilar was such a sweet character, I can’t imagine finding out that I had been lied to most of my life and was now on the run for my life.  Mentink did a great job of allowing both Austin and Pilar to move past pain of the past and grow as people and in their faith. This was a really interesting, fast paced story with lots of twists and turns! I can’t wait to read 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

Author bio with backgroundDana 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 a Holt Medallion winner. She is the Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance 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.)

 

More from Dana

I remember standing on the edge of the lookout and gazing into the wonder that is Artist’s Palette in Death Valley. Artist’s Drive, which takes you to this breathtaking view, rises above Badwater Basin (the lowest spot in North America) and then meanders along twisting canyons and hills until it brings you to this popular tourist stop. The premier view is a place called Artist’s palette. It’s a sprawling pocket of color, hues of rose, ochre, green and gold tucked in the rippling landscape and teased to life by the desert sun. Isn’t that just like God? To lead us to surprises and wonders that await us in a sometimes hostile world? Every day we spent in Death Valley held a surprise, from the rocks that move mysteriously across the sands to the towering twists and turns of 20 Mule Team Canyon. There are only two things to do with a wonderous place like that…enjoy the divine bounty, and write a novel set there so others can come along!

I hope you will enjoy this third installment in the Desert Justice series. The first is Beckett’s story and then we had quiet cowboy Levi’s adventure. Now it’s brash pilot Austin’s turn. Will he get his happy ending after being dumped at the altar and wrecking his shoulder in an accident? Turn those pages and come with me to Death Valley to find out!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 29

Daysong Reflections, March 30

Texas Book-aholic, March 30

Lighthouse academy, March 31

Inklings and notions, March 31

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 1

Betti Mace, April 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 2

Pause for Tales, April 2

For Him and My Family, April 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 3 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, April 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 6

Life, Love, Writing, April 6

Bigreadersite, April 7

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 7

Bizwings Blog, April 8

For the Love of Literature, April 8

Blogging With Carol, April 9

HookMeInABook, April 9

Simple Harvest Reads, April 10 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Paula’s Persuasion, April 10

Blossoms and Blessings, April 11

Sodbuster Living, April 11

Labor Not in Vain, April 12

Through the fire blogs, April 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize package of the first three books in the series (Paperback for U.S. Only) 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/1c112/death-valley-double-cross-celebration-tour-giveaway

Touch of Innocence Review and Giveaway

Touch of Innocence

About the Book

Book: Touch of Innocence

Author: Robin Patchen

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: January 25, 2022

Touch of Innocence Cover (1)From a USA Today bestselling author comes a gripping story of mystery, romance, and pulse-pounding suspense.

How can she save the little girl next door from being exploited if nobody believes her?

Grace used to try to save people, but that was before she realized how powerless she is. Now, she avoids emotional ties, working from her secluded cabin, content with her aloneness. When eight-year-old Lily starts hanging around, Grace enjoys her company but carefully keeps her distance—until she discovers the girl is being exploited. Little though she wants to, she must get involved, even if it means risking her own safety to secure Lily’s.

Andrew can’t help but be drawn to his new neighbor and her beautiful foster child. When he learns about Lily’s disturbing history, he offers to help Grace prove her suspicions about the girl’s father. But the more they learn, the more puzzling Lily’s history seems. They work together to unravel the mystery, determined to ensure Lily ends up with a family who loves her.

But Lily’s father isn’t giving up his muse—or his obsession—that easily. He believes Lily is rightfully his, and he’ll do anything to get her back.

Don’t miss this thrilling page-turner, the latest in the addictive Coventry Saga.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy Houng

I have enjoyed previous books written by Robin Patchen but this book didn’t resonate with me. Perhaps it was the topic of child exploitation that made me uncomfortable, especially since the perpetrator had a significant voice in the plot. I’m not sure if the author wanted the reader to feel a bit of sympathy for the villain or see how twisted his mind is by giving him a viewpoint but it was unsettling. The suspense component was more chills-down-the-spine kind and not so much the fast-paced adrenaline rush. This book was also my introduction to Coventry Saga, so maybe if I had read the first six books in the series, this book would not have been so jarring.

Grace was a tough character to connect with but Andrew was a likable hero, with his disgraced past and desire to please and protect. There was an interesting supernatural component to Grace’s character and the faith thread in the story rang true and strong. If you enjoy romantic suspense, you may enjoy this book.

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

About the Author

Robin Patchen (1)Robin Patchen is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of Christian romantic suspense. She grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, the setting of her Nutfield Saga books, and then headed to Boston to earn a journalism degree. After college, working in marketing and public relations, she discovered how much she loathed the nine-to-five ball and chain. After relocating to the Southwest, she started writing her first novel while she homeschooled her three children. The novel was dreadful, but her passion for storytelling didn’t wane. Thankfully, as her children grew, so did her writing ability. Now that her kids are adults, she has more time to play with the lives of fictional heroes and heroines, wreaking havoc and working magic to give her characters happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s editing or reading, proving that most of her life revolves around the twenty-six letters of the alphabet. Visit https://robinpatchen.com/subscribe to receive a free book and stay informed about Robin’s latest projects.

More from Robin

I love everyman-hero stories.

I know detectives and FBI agents and other law enforcement officers are fighting crime and solving mysteries all the time, but I love stories where regular folks—the kind who live next door and work in supermarkets or sell insurance—suddenly find themselves in the middle of a mystery—one only they can solve.

Maybe it’s my own longing for adventure (while living a life that consists largely of sitting in my office wearing yoga pants and tapping away on a keyboard) that leads me to write these kinds of stories

Touch of Innocence has that everyman… er, woman character, a reclusive former child therapist who wants nothing more than to be left alone. The problem is, Grace has a gift (which she calls a curse) that enables her to “see” that her eight-year-old neighbor, Lily, is being exploited by her child-pornographer father. But since Grace doesn’t have any proof, only the impressions she received when she touched the child’s palm, the police don’t do anything to rescue little Lily.

So Grace takes matters into her own hands.

As the villain so aptly puts it, she “blows up her entire life for the sake of a girl she barely knows.”

And that all happens in the first chapter. Then it gets really interesting.

There’s so much talk in the world about doing things for the greater good, for the benefit of the many, not the few, but that wasn’t Jesus’s way, was it?

Jesus didn’t die for the collective good. He died for you and me. He left the ninety-nine to seek out the one.

In a way, Touch of Innocence asks if one forgotten little girl is worth the cost of the heroine’s security, maybe even her life?

What is the value of one life, and how much are we as believers willing to sacrifice to save?

I think it’s a question worth exploring.

A little FYI about the book: I was very careful not to have any explicit scenes. Though the reader gets the sense of what Lily’s been through, there are no descriptions or images you’ll wish you hadn’t seen. I did my very best in this story to highlight a terrible thing that’s happening all over the world while at the same time honoring my readers and, above all, the Lord.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 23

Blogging With Carol, March 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 24

Texas Book-aholic, March 25

Inklings and notions, March 26

For Him and My Family, March 27

Betti Mace, March 28

Spoken from the Heart, March 29

deb’s Book Review, March 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 30

Mary Hake, March 30

Maureen’s Musings, March 31

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 1

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 2

Blossoms and Blessings, April 3

Livin’ Lit, April 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 4

Simple Harvest Reads, April 5 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Robin is giving away the grand prize package of Convenient Lies, book 1 in the Nutfield Saga, and Glimmer in the Darkness, book 1 in the Coventry Saga, along with a coffee mug!!

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/1bc9a/touch-of-innocence-celebration-tour-giveaway

Shadows at Nightfall Author Interview and Giveaway

shadows at nightfall

About the Book

Book: Shadows at Nightfall

Author: Brett Armstrong

Genre: Christian, Epic Fantasy

Release date: September 14, 2021

Shadows at Nightfall - FINAL FrontThe shadows of Jason’s past have caught him. Having stepped into the Quest of Fire, Jason is pursued by a league of assassins formed of pure darkness. To his horror he discovers these creatures also were contracted to eliminate Anargen and his friends as they sought to understand the Tower of Light’s oracle. To unravel the mystery of who wants him dead and how he fits into the ages old quest, Jason must travel the lengths of the Lowlands. In the Ziljafu deserts a secret awaits him that will shake him to his core. He’ll have to move fast and cling fiercely to hope, as Anargen’s story twists down a bleak path to almost certain failure.

The creatures of darkness in the Lowlands have long waited for men to spurn the High King’s laws. With few concerned for the light and everything falling apart around them, Jason and Anargen will face the shadows of night’s falling as their world hangs in the balance.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Author-picture-closeBrett Armstrong has been exploring other worlds as a writer since age nine. Years later, he still writes, but now invites others along on his excursions. He’s shown readers haunting, deep historical fiction (Destitutio Quod Remissio), scary-real dystopian sci-fi (Day Moon and Veiled Sun), and dark, sweeping epic fantasy (Quest of Fire). Every story is a journey of discovery and an attempt to be a brush in the Master Artist’s hand. Through dark, despair, light, joy, and everything in between, the end is always meant to leave his fellow literary explorers with wonder and hope. Always busy with a new story, he also enjoys drawing, gardening, and spending time with his wife and son.

 

More from Brett

The Lowlands are on the edge of dramatic changes. In every era, warriors for the High King must rise to keep the light burning and hold back the beasts of the darkness that most believe only myth. But those creatures of lore have long waited for the hour of shadows to arrive and with it all the horrors they have schemed.

The protagonists of Quest of Fire saga—Anargen and Jason, don’t realize how great a change is upon them. Anargen’s experience in defending Ordumair from the Grey Scourge and his army of werebeasts have opened his eyes to realities of the Lowlands, but neither he nor his friends nor even their mentor Sir Cinaed understand the Oracle they found within the vaults of Ordumair. It foretold a looming struggle against the forces of darkness that gave rise to the Grey Scourge. The question of how to stop it as the shadows lengthen all around divides the group.

Jason has been running from the darkness in his past so long he only looks to his next step, never what’s coming ahead. He certainly didn’t see stopping at the Black River Inn to hear old Cinaed the Storyteller tell tales of a long past knight named Anargen as life-changing. Until he witnessed the old storyteller do battle with a creature straight out of his stories. Now he feels himself being drawn into the Quest of Fire as Anargen was, but his new found purpose is far from the safety and ease he’s been hoping for.

One of the most exciting aspects of writing Shadows at Nightfall was showing through sweeping epic fantasy the way Anargen does not forsake his allegiance to the High King. The Quest of Fire saga is in part a story about storytelling and that is reflected in the way Jason is shaped by the tale of Anargen’s failures and faithfulness. Much like the Apostle Paul’s exhortation that “…these things were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.” (1 Corinthians 10:11) Though not the only spiritual theme woven into the stories, Shadows at Nightfall invites readers to journey with these characters to the brink, risking their lives, growing from the examples passed down to them, and find there the greatest gain.

“You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.” —2 Timothy 2:1-4

Mindy’s Q&A with Brett

What does success as an author look like to you?

It would be a lie to say that good reviews, awards, and sales don’t matter to me. They do, as much as I try to not let them. But the one bit of writing advice I try to give everyone when asked is to figure out your reason for writing. The why that keeps you going when the above three things go terribly askew. Mine is I want to honor God and I want to help people face the harsh realities of this world in fictional ones so that when they encounter them in the real world, they’re better prepared for it. So, success for me is the time a woman read my first book and then got a copy for her ex-husband because she thought it might help him as he struggled with getting back to a life of faith. Or the time when a reader, whose opinion and faith I respect tremendously, when prompted to list authors she wanted to have a long conversation about literature with listed me. Or the instance where I got to do a workshop on world-building and one of the attendees came up to me afterwards and said that the activity from the workshop had inspired him to write a new story. Or when I finish writing a scene or editing one and I can just tell in my core that it’s exactly how something needed to be written. Those are all intangibles that can’t be quantified into metrics of success. But they’re the sort of reminders that maybe I’m meeting the why that drives me to write. And that’s success.

What inspired this book?

The book’s themes and spiritual content were inspired by a variety of things but the one that stands out the boldest is the need for redemption when we fail. Scripture and my own life abound with examples of God’s indescribably great mercy and grace. The two protagonists, Anargen and Jason, each face the darkness their failures surround them with and look to the High King’s mercy to restore the light.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;

His mercies never come to an end;

they are new every morning;

great is Your faithfulness.”

Lamentations 3:22-23, ESV

The simplest kernel of the driving action in Shadows at Nightfall stems from me enjoying stories where the heroes are in “enemy territory” so to speak, surrounded by danger. There are moments where this is overtly the case in the book but also a fair number of times where danger is all around but the heroes may not even realize it.

What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?           

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.  I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”

John 10:27-30, ESV

Early on when I first became a believer, I was really nervous about doing something wrong that could undo salvation. I was twelve and I knew a lot of the stories from Scripture but I didn’t have a strong grasp of the doctrines of the faith. I had an uncle who was a pastor and he pointed me to those verses. They helped me through those early days and soon after I started reading Scripture regularly. The tenderness and majesty and absolute certainty in the passage are beautiful. In addition to being one of the incontrovertible instances of Christ declaring Himself to be God. I treasure this passage.

What are you reading right now?

I’m going through what’s becoming an annual re-reading of The Silver Chair as it happens. It’s particularly special to me, because the first time I read it, I was supposed to be meeting a friend who I hadn’t seen in a long time. He was the one who got me interested in CS Lewis and Christian apologetics and I found out he had decided to be an atheist. As it turned out, the showdown with the Witch and Puddleglum in Underland had a lot of insights and words that came to me as I talked with my friend. I would like to say I swayed him to reconsider but I do not know what the impact was for him. I only know that the words were there and ready from that reading. I don’t think I can forget that or ever stop linking The Silver Chair to that day.

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

My writing chair varies a lot, but the one closest to being official is a gaming chair in my bedroom that faces a long wall. There’s the computer monitor I got for Christmas and some books (devotionals) on the desk. Along with a stack of things that should be put be up elsewhere but haven’t been yet. Nearby is a picture of Indiana Jones from Raiders of the Lost Ark signed by Harrison Ford and Steven Spielberg (my wife got that for me too). Past that is my bed (usually not made). On the opposite side is a circle couch and some bookshelves, because my bedroom is actually two conjoined rooms. Most of the books on the shelves need to be read and sadly haven’t. Some on there paradoxically have been read many times over. Which just makes me feel worse for the ones I haven’t gotten to yet. Also in the room is a poster sized map of the western Lowlands in the Middle Era from my Quest of Fire series. (Another wifely gift–you probably get the sense that she’s pretty great).

Thank you for your time and letting us get to know you better!

Blog Stops

Through the Fire Blogs, March 17 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 17

Texas Book-aholic, March 18

Inklings and notions, March 19

For Him and My Family, March 20

deb’s Book Review, March 21

Simple Harvest Reads, March 22 (Author Interview)

By the Book, March 22

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 23

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 24

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 26

Artistic Nobody, March 27 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, March 28

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 29

Guild Master, March 30

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Brett is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card, copy of Shadows at Nightfall, and digital extras (exclusive map and music)!!

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/1bc97/shadows-at-nightfall-celebration-tour-giveaway