Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter Review + Kindle Fire Giveaway

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Purchase your copy of Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter here.

About the Book

SavingTheMarquisesGranddaughter_w11911_750In a land fraught with religious strife, they must break the barriers between status and faith to forge a fresh future in a new world… After her Huguenot father is arrested, aristocrat Suzanne Richelieu escapes Versailles. Handsome German peasant, Johan Rousch, risks his life to bring her to the safety of his family’s farm in the Palatinate duchy, but when Suzanne’s brother and the French army arrive with a warning that they plan to burn the area, she and Johan are forced to flee. With no money or options, both become indentured servants in exchange for safe passage to Philadelphia. Suzanne falls gravely ill aboard ship and marries Johan, only to survive with no memory of the wedding—a reality made worse when Johan spots the “priest” who married them working as a surveyor and later in Quaker cleric garb. Are their wedding vows valid? When Suzanne’s former fiancé arrives in port, planning to abduct her, Johan must save her again—but can he do so before Suzanne is lost to him forever?

My Two Cents

What a wonderful, gripping story.  I kept wanting to read and not put it down.  There were so many twists and turns, it kept my attention until the very end.

The time period Carrie chose is very unique and I learned a lot that I did not previously know about this time in history.  It is very apparent that Carrie did her research prior to writing this novel. I loved how Carrie used history to move the story plot along. It was very interesting to see how two very different people, dealt with the circumstances they were thrown into.

The characters in this book are very well written and have great depth.  Many times when there are several secondary characters, a story can become convoluted and confusing. This is not the case with Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter. The secondary characters richly add to the story.

My favorite aspect of the story is the theme of faith that was interwoven between its pages.  Johan believed God was leading him to do something very dangerous yet he trusted the Lord.  Suzanne’s love and care of her mother was touching and her faith was inspiring.

I give Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter 4 out of 5 stars. Adventure, mystery, suspense, romance….What more could you ask for? Definitely a book to add to your TBR pile!

I was given this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was given.

To learn more about the Celebrate Lit Blogging program, click here.

About the Author

Carrie headshotCarrie Fancett Pagels is a multi-published award-winning author of Christian historical romance.  Twenty-five years as a psychologist didn’t “cure” her overactive imagination! She resides with her family in the Historic Triangle of Virginia, which is perfect for her love of history. Carrie loves to read, bake, bead, and travel – but not all at the same time!

 

Guest Post from Carrie Fancett Pagels

Hi, I’m Carrie Fancett Pagels, so excited to see this particular book “baby”, Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter, finally being “born!” I started working on this over eight years ago!

Roush book 1Would you believe it was a genealogical search that began this story? We had a lot of research on my father’s side of the family but not on my mother’s. Sites like Ancestry.com were getting big. One of my mother’s cousins posted the genealogy that he’d found, on one of the genealogy sharing sites and I got that information but only back to where I found two Rousch cousins marrying. I honestly didn’t want to go on after that, as it appeared they were first cousins – yikes! But after praying about it, and knowing my mom was curious, too, I went forward.
colonial Patriot marchers DSCN4653While I am interested in genealogy, as a former psychologist, I’m more interested in people’s stories.  So when I discovered that the two cousins were the grandchildren of Johan Adam Rousch, who had been acknowledged because nine of his ten sons had fought in the American Revolution, I wanted to know more about him and his family and ancestors.  Since there were books already written about him, I went up to the University of Virginia Rare Books Library and read what people had to say about the real life Johan. He sounded fascinating. He was an immigrant from the Palatinate of Germany and lived in the western part of Virginia, after immigrating via Pennsylvania.

I had joined the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) group and had been working on a novel set in the Charleston, South Carolina area, where I’d previously lived. I got so interested in Johan and his story that I began to write. But I couldn’t wrap my mind around Susanna, his real life wife who likely also came from the Palatinate, possibly on the same ship. No matter how I tried to work on her, through various writing classes I took, I couldn’t make her “real” because she just wasn’t speaking to me. I tried and I have the old scenes to prove it!

rousch monumentWhen I write, I pray. I asked God to show me scriptures for each scene, which were included on my rough drafts (they are not there in the final novel.) I did some research, at the library, and a massive tome about the Hundred Years War was recommended to me and one on European History from that time frame. By learning of some of the reasons the Palatinate was persecuted, such as the French punishing them for taking in Protestants, I began to imagine a different sort of heroine for my story. Of course, although the story was inspired by Johan and Susanna, this book is fictional. That freed me up for God to inspire me to make this story about faith. A core tenet of the book is that we must find our own faith – we cannot “borrow” it from someone else!

Since I was still practicing as a psychologist, as I developed Suzanne’s character I included traits that would be common in someone is the situation she was in. She’s living in an aristocratic French family, with parents who are actually of the Huguenot faith. If they are discovered there can be drastic consequences, including death. So a young lady like that may become more obsessive and compulsive as a way of dealing with that anxiety.

I hope those who read this story will be inspired by the message of overcoming and of finding one’s own path to faith in the Lord!!!

Blog Stops

May 24:  D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

May 25: Blossoms and Blessings

May 26: The Power of Words

May 26: Just Commonly (Spotlight)

May 27: A Greater Yes

May 27: Cassandra M’s Place (spotlight)

May 28: Christian Bookaholic

May 29: Bigreadersite

May 29: Mary Hake

May 30: Reading Is My SuperPower

May 31: inklings and notions

June 1: Singing Librarian Books

June 2: Karen’s Krayons

June 3: Rhonda’s Doings

June 4: Southern Chelle

June 5: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberation

June 6: Simple Harvest Reads

Giveaways

Kindle grand prize meme

To celebrate her tour, Carrie is giving away a Kindle Fire 7, one signed copy of Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter along with Postcard & bookmark and Fleur de Lis Earrings. Click the link to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/9a1a

Carrie is also giving an ebook copy of her book to one lucky commenter who answers the question, “How has your faith seen you through some difficult times?” This giveaway closes on June 9th at 11:59 PST.

Charity’s Cross Review + KINDLE FIRE Givaway

Charity’s Cross by MaryLu Tyndall is a 328 page novel in the Christian historical fiction genre.  It was published by Ransom Press and released on January 16, 2016.  To purchase your own copy, click here.

About the book

charity's cross amazon.Suspected of killing her husband, Charity Westcott flees on the first ship out of Portsmouth, England heading for the colonies. Loathing all men after her abusive marriage, she hopes to reunite with her family in Charles Towne, but the ship ends up in Nassau. When she spots her husband’s brother, who is intent on seeing her hang, boarding her ship, she jumps overboard.

Elias Dutton, preacher and son of the famous pirate, Rowan Dutton, must get to Barbados as soon as possible. His sister is in danger, and his parents have charged him with her safety. He cannot let them down—again.  But after rescuing a madcap woman from the bay, he now finds himself tricked into masquerading as her husband so they both can procure passage to Barbados.

Pirates, storms, shipwreck and betrayal threaten to delay the couple in their journey even as sparks fly between them. With her brother-in-law in fast pursuit, the last thing Charity wants is help from a man, especially a religious one, but she has no choice. After Elias’ heart was broken by a sordid woman who nearly ruined his life, he seeks a godly woman pure as the virgin sands of the Caribbean. He believes he has found such a woman in Charity. Until he discovers she is a murderer and is now faced with two choices: letting her go or turning her in to the authorities.

About the Author

MLtyndall-HeadshotAward-winning author MaryLu Tyndall dreamt of pirates and sea-faring adventures during her childhood days on Florida’s Coast. With more than seventeen books published, she makes no excuses for the spiritual themes embedded within her romantic adventures. Her hope is that readers will not only be entertained but will be brought closer to the Creator who loves them beyond measure. In a culture that accepts the occult, wizards, zombies, and vampires without batting an eye, MaryLu hopes to show the awesome present and powerful acts of God in a dying world. A Christy award nominee and Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award winner, MaryLu makes her home with her husband, six children, two grandchildren and several stray cats on the California coast.

My Two Cents

I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK. I can not emphasize those words enough! In fact, I loved this book so much, I am going to add a giveaway for you to win the ebook version. You have to read it! I picked up the book and could not put it down – I was captivated from the start.  Literally.  Pirates, escape, betrayal. I was on the edge of my seat.

This is my first time reading MaryLu but it will not be my last.  I loved her writing. Although this is book four in the series, it can be read as a stand alone.  This is the first book I read but I have since bought books 1 – 3 because I enjoyed this one so much.

Charity’s Cross was fast-paced and well researched.The plot line was expertly written and easy to follow.  The characters had depth and breadth.  I loved that there were time that I wanted to reach in and shake a character. Those make the best books!

MaryLu weaves themes of Christianity throughout the book.  When I finished reading Charity’s Cross, I was reminded and encourage by one theme in particular: GOD IS FAITHFUL. Sometimes we question if God hears us. Sometimes we question if God cares.  He does and Charity’s Cross shows that powerfully.

I give this book an absolute five out of five stars! An encouraging read.  A must read! At $4.99 for the ebook…this is a steal!

Want a chance to win the ebook version of this book? Answer this question below: What aspect of the book interests you? Comment below and be sure to add your email in a safe format (For example, simpleharvestreads(at)gmail(dot)com). If I get a minimum of ten comments, one lucky person will win! This contest will end on March 9. Be sure to share with your friends for them to have a chance to win!

Giveaway

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Enter the Charity’s Cross giveaway here.

Blog Stops

March 2: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

March 2: simpleharvestreads

March 3: Reading Is My SuperPower

March 3: Mary Hake

March 4: Christian Bookaholic

March 4: Heidi Reads…

March 5: Just Commonly

March 6: cherylbbookblog

March 7: Daysong Reflections

March 8: Cassandra M’s Place

March 8: Splashes of Joy

March 9: The Editor’s Note

March 9: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

March 10: Bigreadersite

March 10: Bukwurmzzz

March 11: A Greater Yes

March 11: Texas Book-aholic

March 12: Singing Librarian Books

March 13: Raining Butterfly Kisses

March 14: Seasons of Opportunities

Shattered Memories + Huge Giveaway!

 

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Be sure to come to the Facebook party to celebrate the release of Shattered Memories on Feb 29.  RSVP here.

Shattered Memories is a 265 page novel in the Christian Historical genre and was released on February 14, 2016. You can purchase the book here.

About the Book

Shattered Memories smallest fileThe Charleston earthquake has left destruction like nothing Doctor Andrew Warwick has ever seen. On a desperate mission to find the lady who owns his heart, he frantically searches through the rubble. He finds her injured and lifeless. After she regains consciousness, the doctor’s hopes are quickly dashed as he realizes she doesn’t remember him. Things only get worse when he discovers she believes she’s still engaged to the abusive scoundrel, Lloyd Pratt. Now Drew is on a race with the wedding clock to either help her remember or win her heart again before she marries the wrong man.

Waking in a makeshift hospital, Olivia Macqueen finds herself recovering from a head injury. With amnesia stealing a year of her memories, she has trouble discerning between lies and truth. When her memories start returning in bits and pieces, she must keep up the charade of amnesia until she can find out the truth behind the embezzlement of her family’s business while evading the danger lurking around her.

My Two Cents

One of the best books I have read. Ever. Intrigue, love, faith. This book has it all. It drew me in from the beginning.  I began reading and read for two hours straight because I could not put the book down.  I craved to see what happened!

The writing made me feel I was right there with the characters watching what happened.  This was the first time I read anything by Costello, but it will not be my last.  I love her writing and I rank her up there with my favorite authors.

This book takes place around the great Charleston earthquake. It was very obvious that Costello did her research while writing this book.  Shattered Memories brought to light what the people of Charleston suffered as well as the courage of the doctors who treated the patients.  The characters were well developed having breadth and depth.  The plot line was fast paced and unfolded well.

Shattered Memories was a joy to read. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.  This book is only $3.99; A steal  for such a great book.  Pick this book up. You will not be disappointed!

Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Debbie Lynne Costello for giving me this book in exchange for a review.  No monetary compensation was received and all views are my own.

About the Author

debbielynneDebbie Lynne Costello is the author of the #1 Amazon bestseller Sword of Forgiveness, a medieval romance. She has enjoyed writing stories since she was eight years old. She raised her family and then embarked on her own career of writing the stories that had been begging to be told. She and her husband have four children and live in upstate South Carolina where she has worked in many capacities in her church and is currently the Children’s Director. When not spending time with her husband, four children and grandchildren she hangs out with her Arabian and Tennessee Walking horses.

Giveaway

I am excited to announce that there are TWO different giveaways for Shattered Memories!

  1. Enter the HUGE giveaway going on with Celebrate Lit that includes a KINDLE FIRE and a GIFT BASKET worth over $100 plus other great prizes! Enter here.shatteredmemoriesprizes
  2. If I receive 10 comments on this post, one lucky commenter will receive a copy of any DebbieLynne Costello books. Be sure to share with your friends!

 

Blog Tour Stops

Feb 15: Quiet Quilter

Feb 16: Daysong Reflections

Feb 17: Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

Feb 18: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

Feb 18: Simpleharvestreads

Feb 19: Rhonda’s Doings

Feb 19: Buwurmzzz

Feb 20: A Greater Yes

Feb 21: 100 Page Per Hour

Feb 22: The Editor’s Note

Feb 22: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

Feb 23: The Christian Bookaholic

Feb 24: Blossoms and Blessings

Feb 24: Cassandra M’s Place

Feb 25: Bigreadersite

Feb 26: Singing Librarian Books

Feb 27: cherylbbookblog

Feb 28: Texas Book-aholic

Feb 28: Mary Hake

Feb 29: Raining Butterfly Kisses

Daughters of the Heart

Daughters of the Heart by Caryl McAdoo is a 310 page novel in the Christian historical fiction genre. It is the fifth book in the Texas Romance series but can be read as a standalone.  Daughters of the Heart is an indie publication and was released on August 28, 2015.  To purchase your copy, click here.

Daughters of the Heart

Overview

God’s perfect plan is oft so hard to determine. In his life, Henry Buckmeyer has never been so beside himself. His little girls are so young, just babies, too young. He hates the whole idea of men coming to take them away and is inclined to shoot every one of them, but praise God for a level-headed, loving wife and step-mother! She helps keep him sane amidst the female chaos. Packed with fun, romance, deception, action, heartbreak and tears, this delightful Christian novel keeps the twists and turns coming. Gwendolyn, Cecelia, and the youngest, Bonnie, make a pact never to break their father’s heart like their big sister did. Then their determination is sorely tried when suitors show up, and he gets so pigheaded with his rules. Will Henry survive his daughters coming of age? Will they endure and keep their promises to each other? From one man asking to court her—who Daddy sends packing—Gwen goes to three! How can she ever decide? Cecelia knows exactly who she wants, but she’s still a year away from Daddy’s acceptable courting age. What if her beau doesn’t know or won’t wait? And Bonnie hates being the baby and wants to be grown-up more than just about anything…except her man. She is for sure and for certain in love. Will the Buckmeyer home ever be settled and peaceful again? Will any of his daughters find true love…a man he’ll approve and to whom he can give his blessing?

My Two Cents

I thoroughly enjoyed Daughters of the Heart by Caryl McAdoo.  She has a way of writing that feels authentic and reflects her love of the Lord.  I loved the quirky sayings she included and the added humor made the book light-hearted and fun.

There were several characters in Daughters of the Heart, but the storyline was easy to follow.  The characters are well written and had depth.  There was tension, love, heartache, and the conflict of honoring your parents while staying true to yourself.  

I loved following the drama of the Buckmeyer sisters. It kept my attention throughout because I wanted to see what the girls did and if their father finally approved of a suitor. Having teenagers myself, I could relate to the Buckmeyer parents. However, at times I also felt bad for the girls.  Loving and being frustrated with characters make for a good story! Caryl did not disappoint!  

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars. If you love historical romance that is God centered, you won’t want to miss this book!

Thank you to Celebrate Lit (celebratelit.com) and Caryl McAdoo for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was received and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

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Award winning, bestselling author Caryl McAdoo currently writes four series: the historical Christian ‘Texas Romance’; a contemporary ‘Red River Romance’; The Generations, her Biblical fiction and a mid-grade The King’s Highway. The prolific novelist loves singing new songs the Lord gives her and painting. In 2008, she and her high school sweetheart-husband Ron moved from the DFW area—home for fifty+ years—to the woods of Red River County. Caryl counts four children and sixteen grandsugars life’s biggest blessings believing all good things come from God. Praying her story gives God glory, she hopes each one will also minister His love, mercy, and grace to its readers. Caryl and Ron live in Clarksville, the county seat, in the far northeast corner of the Lone Star State with two grandsons, Christian and Benjamen.

Giveaway

Caryl is giving away some great prizes:

  • Grand Prize: Set of Texas Romance books #1 thru 5 (Vow Unbroken, Hearts Stolen, Hope Reborn, Sins of the Mother, and Daughters of the Heart)
  • First Prize:  Set of The Generations Biblical fiction series (A Little Lower Than the Angels, Then the Deluge Comes, and Replenish the Earth)
  • Second Prize:  Your choice of the Texas Romances
  • Third Prize:  A Texas Surprise!

Click the word “Form” below to enter the giveaway. This giveaway ends on Sept 30 at 11:50 pm PDT.

Counting on a Cowboy

Counting on a Cowboy by Debra Clopton is a 320 page novel in the Christian Contemporary Romance genre. It is book two in the A Four of Heart Ranch Romance Series but can be red as a standalone. Counting on a Cowboy is published by Thomas Nelson and was released on August 11, 2015. To order your own copy, click here.

Counting on a Cowboy

Overview

After losing everything she held dear, Abby never wants to love again. But a certain cowboy may just spur her to wonder if love might be worth the risk.

Running from a past that haunts her, Abby Knightly is drawn to the cozy town of Wishing Springs, Texas. Maybe this small town could offer hope and healing and a future for Abby . . . if she’s brave enough to reach out and take it by the reins.

Bo Monahan isn’t interested in the new romantic destination his little town has become—or the women who might be looking at him like he’s their next Mr. Right. Between taking care of his Pops and his growing stirrup business, he isn’t looking for serious romantic commitments. But when the infant son he never knew about shows up at his doorstep, his world is turned upside down.

This confirmed bachelor might not think he needs a wife, but he sure needs help. Even Abby can see that, and despite her best efforts to keep her distance, she can’t help but be drawn to this new father-son duo. As Abby throws herself into helping Bo navigate fatherhood, hope sparks between them, revealing that maybe, just maybe, they can navigate their dark pasts and emerge together into a future as bright as the Texas sun itself.

My Two Cents

Counting on a Cowboy is an easy read and a very sweet story.  Abby comes to Wishing Springs reeling from pain and tragedy; hoping to start over and make a new life for herself. I loved how Clopton revealed Abby’s story piece by piece throughout the novel.  It made the story interesting and I wanted to keep reading.

I enjoyed watching Abby grow throughout this book.  Clopton has a way of drawing you into what her characters are feeling. She writes their raw emotions.  Clopton did not gloss over issues that she brought to light in her book which was very refreshing. There were issues of side characters that exposed. Sometimes when there are side stories it distracts from the main storyline.  In Counting on a Cowboy the side issues added to story by providing tension and made it more engaging.

My only disappointment with this book was that it seemed a bit unrealistic.  Bo seemed to not want to have anything to do with the women who were drawn to the town through his sister-in-law’s articles.  Yet, he seems to fall in love with Abby right away.  I think there was an opportunity for some tension to be provided and this would have added to the story.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and am glad I read it.  I give this book 3 out of 5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was received and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Debra Clopton is a multi-award winning novelist who was first published in 2005 and has more than 22 novels to her credit. Along with her writing, Debra helps her husband teach the youth at their local Cowboy Church. Debra is the author of the acclaimed Mule Hollow Matchmaker Series, the place readers tell her they wish was real. Her goal is to shine a light toward God while she entertains readers with her words. Visit her website at www.debraclopton.com

Giveaway

One lucky winner will win a copy of Counting on a Cowboy by Debra Clopton.  To enter, click on the word “Form” below.  This contest ends on Sept. 5 at 11:59 pm PDT.

A Bride at Last

A Bride at Last by Melissa Jagears is a 368 page novel in the Christian historical romance genre.  It is the third book in the Unexpected Brides series but can be read as a stand alone.  A Bride at Last is published by Bethany House and was released on July 7, 2015. To purchase your own copy, click here.

a bride at last

Overview

Abandoned by his mail-order bride, Silas Jonesey has fought an uphill battle to recover from a pattern of poor choices. Now his prayers for reconciliation have finally come true and his estranged wife has contacted him with her whereabouts.

Kate Dawson was supposed to be a mail-order bride, but upon realizing she’d been deceived about her intended groom, she’s now settled into life as a schoolteacher. When the mother of a student passes away, Kate assumes she’ll take on care of nine-year-old Anthony-until two men suddenly show up in town, claiming to be the boy’s father.

Silas can see Anthony loves Kate, so he enlists her help in reaching out to the boy and attempting to prove his paternity to the court. When a common interest in Anthony leads to an interest in each other and Silas and Kate begin to think they can overcome their rocky start, neither is prepared for the secrets and past hurts that have yet to come to light. Can Silas, Kate, and Anthony’s wounded souls bind them together or will all that stands between them leave them lonely forever?

To learn more about A Bride at Last, click here.

My Two Cents

A Bride at Last is a faced-paced love story that makes you sad to see the story end because you want to read more.  It is well-written with developed characters and storyline. I loved how the book does not end where you expect it to and shows how God can heal the lives of people.

A Bride at Last deals with addiction; how those vices effect the ones around us and have consequences for years to come.  However, it also displays how love, hope, faith, and forgiveness can help us to overcome our addictions. I was encouraged by the blessings the characters received by following God and having faith in Him even when it is hard and sacrifices are made to do so.

The hard choices that women had to make in the late 1800’s were well written into A Bride at Last. Abandonment and its lasting consequences on both children and adults were woven into this story as well.  One of my favorite aspects of this story is how it shows that family is not always made up of flesh and blood. Love makes a family a family.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.  It is a book a really enjoyed and will be reading again!

Thank you to the LitFuse Chicks for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was received and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Melissa Jagears, an ESL teacher by trade and the author of ABride for Keeps and A Bride in Store, is a stay-at-home mother on a tiny Kansas farm with a fixer-upper house. She’s a member of ACFW and CROWN fiction marketing, and her passion is to help Christian believers mature in their faith and judge rightly.

Find Melissa online: website, Facebook

Two Giveaways

Simple Harvest Reads Giveaway

To enter my giveaway, click on the words “Entry-Form” below.  This giveaway ends on July 19, 2015 at 11:59pm PDT.

Melissa Jagears A Bride at Last and a $100 memory making giveaway:

Can Silas and Kate overcome their rocky start and experience healing—and possibly love? Discover the answer in Melissa Jagears’ new book, A Bride at LastNeither Kate nor Silas is prepared for the secrets and past hurts that have yet to come to light as they attempt to prove nine-year-old Anthony’s paternity to the court. Can their wounded souls bind them together or will all that stands between them leave them lonely forever?

Celebrate the release of A Bride at Last by entering to win a $100 Memory-Making giveaway and RSVPing to Melissa’s August 4th author chat party!

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One grand prize winner will receive:

  • A $100 gift card to Netflix (for a family movie night), Shutterfly (to create a family memory book), or TablePlayGames (for a family game night)
  • One copy of A Bride at Last

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 8/4. The winner will be announced at Melissa’s 8/4 A Bride at Last Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Melissa and fiction fans, as well as for a chance to win some great prizes!

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RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!

Gone Without a Trace

Gone Without a Trace by Patricia Bradley is a 328 page novel in the Christian suspense genre. It is published by Revell Publishers and was released on July 7, 2015. Gone Without  a Trace is the third book in the Logan Point series but can be read as a stand alone. To purchase your copy, click here.

Overview
It’s been more than two years since homicide detective Livy Reynolds’s cousin disappeared from Logan Point. Unlike most people in her hometown, Livy has never believed that Robyn left voluntarily. When Dallas private investigator Alex Jennings contacts Livy concerning a missing senator’s daughter who was last seen in Logan Point, she notices eerie similarities between the two disappearances. But with self-doubt plaguing her and an almost instant dislike of Jennings, Livy is finding this investigation an uphill battle. With her future in law enforcement on the line, can she find a way to work with a man who is her polar opposite?

Award-winning author Patricia Bradley keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they anticipate the outcome of the case–and the relationship between Livy and Alex–which is anything but certain.

My Two Cents
Gone Without A Trace is an edge of your seat thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. There are many characters all within a small town which adds to the suspense of the story. The book goes back and forth between the thoughts of the killer and the main characters of the story but, unlike other novels I read, this does not give away who the killer is and gives you a first hand look into the mind of the killer.

There are several themes throughout the story. Gone Without a Trace shows the consequences of abandonment and the bad choices parents make. Familial love is another theme that is well written in this story. The sacrifices that Livy makes for her family and her family makes for her made me wish I was closer to my extended family. Gone Without a Trace also shows how family can use love to manipulate you and try to conform you to be what you are not through the character of Alex.

Gone Without a Trace incorporates the sacrifices police officers make in the line of duty. Also the tension that can come between law enforcement and private investigators. It is very apparent that Patricia has done her research on law enforcement, private investigators, and how each work within their field.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It is the first book I have read by Patricia Bradley and I was not disappointed. I can not wait to read more of her books.

About the Author
Patricia Bradley’s manuscript for Shadows of the Past was a finalist for the 2012 Genesis Award, winner of a 2012 Daphne du Maurier award (1st place, Inspirational), and winner of a 2012 Touched by Love award (1st place, Contemporary). Also the author of A Promise to Protect, Bradley is a published short story writer and is cofounder of Aiming for Healthy Families, Inc. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America and makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.

Giveaway
To enter the giveaway for a copy of Gone Without a Trace, click on the words “Entry-Form” below. This giveaway ends July 18 at 11:59pm PDT.

Picture Perfect Love

Picture Perfect Love by Melissa McClone is a novel in the Christian contemporary romance genre.  It is published by Zondervan Publisher and was released in May, 2015.  It is the seventh book in the A Year of Weddings series but can be read as a stand alone. To purchase your copy, click here.

picture perfect love

Overview

When image becomes everything, it’s up to love to refocus the heart.

Photographer Jenna Harrison wants every bride and groom to look picture perfect on their special day, putting her heart into every wedding to give the couple memorable images of their love. But her own heart is still broken, the unworn wedding dress hanging in her closet a reminder that relationships aren’t always as perfect as they look through her camera lens. But Jenna has faith that she will find true love. Until then, she must be patient and trust in God’s plan and His perfect timing.

Attorney Ashton Vance is the one that got away. When an embarrassing Photoshopped picture of put an end to his political aspirations, he blamed Jenna. So what if the photo led to his being offered a dream job and changing his life for the better? Jenna betrayed his trust, and two years later, Ashton’s heart still hasn’t recovered.

It was me. His younger sister’s three words turn Ashton’s world upside down. He must ask Jenna’s forgiveness, but can he risk his heart a second time? Even if Jenna can forgive him, dare he hope for a second chance at her love?

For more information on Picture Perfect Love, click here.

My Two Cents

Picture Perfect Love is an easy read about healing, love, and forgiveness.  The story flows well and is the perfect read for a summer day of reading.  The cute ideas for the main characters photography business displays the research the author has done for this novel and some of the antics her customers displayed are both humorous and well-fitting in this story.

The characters in this story have their share of difficulties, mostly brought about by themselves. Ashton must deal with his father’s manipulation and his sister’s antics. For Jenna, she must contemplate if she has truly forgiven Ashton. Even though we have healed, sometimes when our past comes back to us, it is difficult to trust again.

Picture Perfect Love makes the reader reflect on forgiveness and restoration.  Jenna’s faith in God and her changed life is evident through her relationship with Ashton, his family, and her friends. The help she has received from her church wonderfully displays the body Christ.

I enjoyed reading this Picture Perfect Love, however, I wish more time would have been taken with the end of the story. The end felt very rushed. Also, I thought certain parts of the book were predictable.

I give this book 3 out of 5 stars.  It is a fun read and there is definitely a lesson to be learned from this story.

Thank you to the Litfuse Chicks for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  All views expressed are my own and no monetary compensation has been received.

About the Author

Melissa McClone has published more than thirty novels with Harlequin and Tule Publishing Group. She has also been nominated for Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three school-aged children, two spoiled Norwegian Elkhounds and cats who think they rule the house.

Find Melissa online: website, Twitter, Facebook

Giveaway

To enter to win an e-book copy of Picture Perfect Love, click on the words “Entry-Form” below.  This giveaway ends July 18, 2015 at 11:59pm PDT.

Mindwar Guest Review by Denise Barela

MindWar by Andrew Klavan is a 336 page novel in the Young Adult Science Fiction genre. It is published by Thomas Nelson Publishers and was released on March 17, 2015.  To purchase your copy, click here.

mindwar

Overview

New High Score! New Record Time!

Rick nodded with grim satisfaction. He laid the game controller aside on the sofa and reached for his crutches.

Rick Dial was the best quarterback Putnam Hills High School had ever seen. Unflappable. Unstoppable. Number 12. But when a car accident left him crippled, Rick’s life as he knew it ended. He disavowed his triumphant past. He ignored his girlfriend. He disappeared into his bedroom—and into the glowing video screen.

But Rick’s uncanny gaming skills have attracted attention. Dangerous attention. Government agents have uncovered a potentially devastating cyber-threat: a Russian genius has created a digital reality called the Realm, from which he can enter, control, and disrupt American computer systems . . . from transportation to defense. The agents want Rick, quick-thinking quarterback and gaming master, to enter the Realm and stop the madman—before he sends America into chaos.

Entering the Realm will give Rick what he thought he’d never have again: a body as strong and fast as it was before the accident. But this is no game, there are no extra lives, and what happens to Rick in the Realm happens to Rick’s body in reality.

Even after Rick agrees to help, he can’t shake the sense that he’s being kept in the dark. Why would a government agency act so aggressively? Can anyone inside the Realm be trusted? How many others have entered before him . . . and failed to return?

In the tradition of Ender’s Game and The Matrix, MindWar is a complex thriller about a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers a hidden gift—a gift that could make him a hero . . . or cost him everything.

My Two Cents

MindWar focused on themes of family, faith, and hope. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the characters in this novel evolve as the plot unfolded. The main character, Rick, shows reader how important it is to never give up, though he had to learn this lesson the hard way. Despite the danger it brought to his own life, he did tried with all his might to save those he calls friends.

The focus shift between the good guys and the bad guys made the storyline easier to follow. Although this book started off slowly, it picked up towards the end of the novel.  Overall, this book had an interesting concept and was a good read.

I give this book 3 out of 5 stars.  I give it this rating only because it took some time for the story to pick up. This book had great characters that can teach us important lessons.

About the Author

Andrew Klavan is a bestselling, award-winning thriller novelist whose books have been made into major motion pictures. He broke into the YA scene with the best-selling Homelanders series, starting with The Last Thing I Remember. He is also a screenwriter and scripted the innovative movie-in-an-app Haunting Melissa.

Change of Heart Review

Change of Heart by Molly Jebber is a 288 page novel in the Amish historical fiction genre.  It is published by Zebra Publishers and will be released on June 30, 2015. To pre-order a copy, click here.

change of heart

Overview

Ohio, 1899. Soft-spoken midwife Becca Yost lived by her Amish faith’s strict rules—until her fiancé jilted her before their entire community. She’s never been away from home, but the bustling Englischer town of Massillon, Ohio, is a welcome unexpected refuge. Especially when she goes to work for Dr. Matt Carrington, who shares her passion for healing those in need. His outgoing spirit and gentle strength show Becca a surprising new world of choices—and irresistible love. But there is one formidable obstacle: Matt’s wealthy mother is determined her son will marry a society woman.

With her newfound resolve challenged, Becca decides that she and Matt must not be destined for each other after all. She accepts that she will have to forge a life alone—until a wrenching crisis and life-changing revelations teach her that true faith lies in all things, especially impossible second chances. . .

About the Author

Molly Jebber is the author of CHANGE OF HEART, an Amish historical romance. Fascinated by the Amish history, culture, Molly perused her passion to write.  Her love or writing led to a book deal with Kensington Publishing as well as three more titles debuting in 2015/2016. Publisher’s Weekly magazine announced and listed this book number three in their best ten review list for 2015. Romantic Times gave Change of Heart 4.5 stars.Molly enjoys time with her family, friends, traveling, swimming and golf. She loves God and serving Him.

http://www.mollyjebber.com – Sign up for Molly’s newsletter, for giveaways, appearances, and latest news on book releases.

My Two Cents

It is always fun to find a new author. Especially an author who writes not only Amish fiction but in the historical contexts. Molly Jebber does a wonderful keeping to the Amish culture. It is obvious to the reader she has done her research on the culture of the Amish during this time period.

Change of Heart is a refreshing take on Amish fiction because the storyline and setting are so different from the typical Amish genre.  The characters are very different but written well.  The idea of pocket quilts was fascinating to me and their use in the story makes it quite endearing.  The relationships between the character are encouraging. The bonds between Becca and her sister are strong and even shunning has not been able to separate them. Their support for each other help to remind us what family is all about.

I give Change of Heart 4.5 stars out of 5 stars. This is a sweet story that will captivate you from beginning to end.

Many thanks to Molly Jebber for a free copy of her book in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.

Giveaway

To celebrate the release of Molly’s new book, Change of Heart this weekend we are giving away a copy of the book to one lucky winner.  To Enter, click on the words “Entry-Form” below.

This giveaway ends Monday, June 29 at 11:59pm.