For Richer or Poorer Review + Giveaway

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Purchase your copy of For Richer or Poorer here

About the Book

April 30 - May 8

Elizabeth Whitte finds herself on the frigid border of Minnesota and Canada as winter sets in. When her plans for finding a husband and rushing back to Kansas fall through, she has to stay and learn a few things…like how to care for others.

Robert is a Mountie in Fort Frances, Canada. When he meets Elizabeth, his first instinct is to send her home. He’s been burned by women like her in the past and knows his life isn’t suited for them. Elizabeth’s pull is strong, but he cannot leave his beloved Canada.

As Elizabeth matures in many ways, Robert must decide if sending her back to Kansas is still his best option. Could she learn to love him, and his beautiful home?

My Two Cents

For Richer or Poorer is the second book in the series and the second book I have read by Kari Trumbo. I can not wait to read the next book in the series! I loved both of Kari’s books! Her books have characters you love to hate and characters you want to see get a happy ending. There were times that I wanted to scream and a couple of times I held my breath wondering what would happen next. I found myself engrossed in the story and I did not want it to end.

I love the themes of forgiveness, healing and restoration weaved into For Richer or Poorer.  I also loved how Elizabeth had a plan but God had a different idea – a better plan – for her.  This is a great reminder for us. How many times have we had plans that didn’t come to fruition but in the end, we look back and see God’s plan through the whole situation.

I give For Richer or Poorer 5 out of 5 stars.  An exciting book that leaves you wanting more!

Thank you to Celebrate Lit and Kari Trumbo for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Kari Trumbo Author pictureKari Trumbo is a writer of Christian Historical Romance and a stay-at-home mom to four vibrant children. She does freelance developmental editing and blogging. When she isn’t writing or editing, she homeschools her children and pretends to keep up with them. Kari has written three novels in the Western Vows series and one prequel/novella; all should be released by fall of 2016. Kari loves reading, listening to contemporary Christian music, singing with the worship team, and curling up near the wood stove when winter hits. She makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband of eighteen years, two daughters, two sons, and four cats.

Places to follow Kari:

Website           Facebook         Twitter            Pinterest          Amazon

Blog Spots

May 1: Mary Hake

May 1: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

May 2: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

May 3: A Greater Yes

May 4: Bukwurmzzzz

May 5: Simple Harvest Reads

May 6: Artistic Nobody

May 6: Cassandra M’s Place

May 7: Red Headed Book Lady

Guest Post from Kari Trumbo

Welcome to the tour, my new friends!

The Western Vows series began, believe it or not, on a dream and a challenge. I’m very close friends with another writer. We’d been friends for about seven years when she published her first book. I offered to edit it for her and tucked my own secret thoughts of writing inside. She and I are so alike, we share a birthday, look similar, have similar interests and likes, but we are not sisters, at least in the biological sense. When I’d been editing for her for three years, in secret, I wrote a manuscript. It was during the month of our shared birthdays. I told her about it and she said the best thing to do when you start writing is to set that one aside and keep going. NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) camp came the very next month and she challenged me to write another, right away. I’d had a story bottled up for over three years. I accepted her challenge, set my word count, and finished the first draft of To Honor and Cherish five weeks later.

I knew the story was good, I just needed to work on it, but while I was writing the story of Meg, stubborn Lizzy started pushing her way to the forefront of my mind. That would be For Richer or Poorer. I edited book one over twenty-five times and submitted it to a few agents, all of whom gave me good advice on how to improve it. Parts that I took out of book one in editing became the background of Forsaking All Others, the prequel and Rose’s story, explaining how a Sioux couple ended up on a Kansas ranch.

Lastly, and the most difficult, was To Love and Comfort, Margot’s story. She fought me every step of the way and that story had to be started over four times before I got it right. It will be released fall of 2016. There may be more novels in the Western Vows series, I’m not willing to write the end just yet. I’m currently working on two new series, one focused on a tiny town in Montana with three other authors, the other a series based in Nebraska.

In For Richer or Poorer, I’ll take you through the taming of Elizabeth Whitte. I didn’t like her much at first, and I don’t think you will, either, but keep reading! She reminded me a bit of Scarlet O’Hara in the beginning. She rushes off to Northern Minnesota to trick a man into marrying her so she can inherit her father’s ranch. She never dreamed that there might be men out there unwilling to listen to her every demand. Life is a little harsh for her, but she soon learns that the things she teased her sister Meg about enjoying, just might make her happy, too. By the end of For Richer or Poorer, Elizabeth was one of my favorite characters and Robert is, bar none, my favorite hero so far.

I hope you enjoy their story as much as I did writing it.

~Kari

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Kari is giving away two wonderful prizes! The grand prize winner will receive a Kindle Fire. The first place winner will receive a copy of each of her books. This giveaway begins April 30 and ends May 9. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and entrants release any liability to this blog and Celebrate Lit.

Click here to enter.

 

Amish Quilts Coloring Book Review & Giveaway

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Purchase your copy here.

About the book

Amish Quilts Coloring BOOK coverFeeling stressed? Why not relax with an adult coloring book? Rachel J. Good’s Amish Quilts Coloring Book takes you back to a time and place that’s calm. Immerse yourself in a world of peace as you color the 25 different quilts.

Inspired by quilts seen in Amish country, many of these designs are based on traditional patterns, but some have been reimagined or repeated multiple times to create more intricate designs to color. Each quilt is printed on only one side of the page; facing pages contain inspirational Amish proverbs. To make the quilts even more colorful and interesting, sketch fabric designs – plaids, checks, paisleys, flowers, or abstract shapes – into the larger quilt blocks, use pattern stamps, or even collage fabric scraps to the pages. And if the designs inspire you to make quilts of your own, the pages can be used as templates for quilt-making.

My Two Cents

Amish coloring pageI have always wanted to quilt but have to be honest and say that I am horrible at sewing.  I love Rachel’s coloring book because I get to “sew” beautiful quilts by coloring them. I also get to  relax while doing it!

I like that each quilt has its own page so you can color and display each one. There is a beautiful proverb that goes with each page that I found very encouraging. This coloring book will bring you hours of fun.  It is not just for women or adults, my son colored the quilt displayed on this post.

I have included a colored and uncolored sample  for you to view.

I give the Amish Quilts Coloring Book 5 out of 5 stars. A fun book not to be missed!

About the Author

Rachel photo webRachel J. Good, inspirational author, writes life-changing, heartfelt novels of faith, hope, and forgiveness. She is the author of Amish romances in the Sisters & Friends series. She grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for her novels. A former teacher and librarian, she completed her MA from Vermont College while raising five children. She is presently an MFA student in Writing and Illustration at Hollins University. In addition to having more than 2200 articles and 30 books in print or forthcoming under several pseudonyms, she also juggles freelance editing and illustration careers. To buy the Amish Quilts Coloring Book: http://amzn.to/1VmIOUi. Visit Rachel at:

Website: www.racheljgood.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/racheljgoodnovels/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachelJGood1

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14661177.Rachel_J_Good

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/racheljgood1/

Blog Stops

May 4: Bookworm Mama

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May 9: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

May 10: Texas Book-aholic

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May 12: Through the Open Window

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May 14: A Greater Yes

May 14: Artistic Nobody

May 15: Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses

May 15: Books! Books! Books!

May 15: Raining Butterfly Kisses

May 15: Quiet Quilter

Giveaway

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No Neutral Ground Review Plus Giveaway

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Purchase your copy here.

About the Book

NNGFrontNo Neutral GroundAfter his father divorces his mother because of her Jewish ancestry, Rafe and the rest of his family flee Germany. As a B-17 navigator, he returns to Europe. On the ocean voyage, he meets Jennie, an artist journeying to Sweden to work with the OSS.

Flying missions against his former homeland arouses emotions that surprise Rafe. Despite being rejected, he is troubled by the destruction of Germany and his heart still cries for his father’s love.

Sweden may be neutral, but it’s full of intrigue. Jennie assists the OSS at the American legation in Sweden. She thought she’d be doing passive, behind-the-scenes work. Instead, she’s pushed into an active role to gain intelligence and frustrate the Germans.

How can Rafe and Jennie succeed in their dangerous roles when they are so conflicted?

My Two Cents

Can I just say I love Terri Wangard? Her stories draw you right in and you can not put her book down! No Neutral Ground was both well researched and well written. Her characters have depth and you become attached to them. 

Rafe is my favorite character – I connected with his story. He felt lost, unloved, rejected. I think all of us has felt this way at some point in our lives. Rafe’s story touched me deeply.

One aspect of both Books is they make you realize that not Germans supported the Nazis. They give you a glimpse at how torn some Germans were. How heartbroken they were to see their homeland ensnared in war.

Terri makes you feel as if you were back in WWII right beside her characters. I give No Neutral Ground 5 out of 5 stars. This is a book you don’t want to miss and an author you want to add to your watch list!

About the Author

TerriTerri Wangard grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, during the Lombardi Glory Years. Her first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. These days she is writing historical fiction, and won the 2013 Writers on the Storm contest and 2013 First Impressions, as well as being a 2012 Genesis finalist. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Her research included going for a ride in a WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Classic Boating Magazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her busy as an associate editor.

Connect with Terri:
www.terriwangard.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorTerriWangard
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/terriwangard/

Blog Stops

May 3: Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

May 4:  A Greater Yes

May 5: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

May 5: The Editor’s Note

May 6: Daysong Reflections

May 6: Mary Hake

May 7: Bigreadersite

May 8: Inklings and Notions

May 9: Blossoms and Blessings

May 10: Bukwurmzzz

May 10: Cassandra M’s Place (spotlight)

May 11: Christian Bookaholic

May 12: Singing Librarian Books

May 13: Texas Book-aholic

May 14: Simple Harvest Reads

May 15: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

May 16: Artistic Nobody

Guest Post from Terri Wangard

I hadn’t planned on writing No Neutral Ground. Friends and Enemies (book one of the Promise For Tomorrow series) was the WWII story I’d wanted to write, inspired by family history on the German side. Finishing that, I’d started writing a contemporary story set in one of my favorite places, Green Lake, Wisconsin.

At an ACFW conference, I had an appointment to pitch Friends and Enemies with an editor. She said I’d be likelier to get a contract if I had a series. The Green Lake story got shelved.

What could I write to partner with Friends and Enemies? That stumped me. The German side of the story was my big interest, but another one? No. I had no desire to return to Nazi Germany. My ancestry is three quarters German. All of my forbearers arrived in America before 1900, but it’s still a bitter thought that their homeland spawned such evil.

Germany’s out, so that left me with the other side of Friends and Enemies—the B-17s. I’d chosen the Flying Fortress because of my timeline. In mid-1944, the only American military men in Germany were shot-down airmen. I had plenty of material I hadn’t used in Friends and Enemies, but the plot had to be different. Something other writers hadn’t touched on. Maybe…Sweden?

Who’s familiar with Sweden’s role in World War II?

If American planes got in trouble during their missions and couldn’t make it back to their bases in England, they sought sanctuary in neutral countries. Switzerland is usually the first that comes to mind. Tricia Goyer had already written The Swiss Courier which touches on internees.

But Sweden. I had even visited Sweden. In 1993, my dad and I had gone to Sweden to cover a classic boat show for our magazine, Classic Boating. During a free day, we had wandered around Stockholm and taken lots of pictures.

I started the research and discovered, hmm, there’s not much, especially if you don’t know Swedish. One book I acquired held a eureka moment. A B-17 was damaged and the pilot told the crew to bail out. The navigator hurried to the cockpit and implored him to try to make it to Sweden. He was from Germany, a former member of the Hitler Youth, and he did not want to be captured by his former countrymen. There’s my male protagonist! Rafe discovered he had Jewish ancestry and had to flee Germany. Now he’s back at war with the homeland.

I still needed a female protagonist, and Jennie proved hard to pin down. I was pulling her together throughout the writing. I enjoyed reading accounts of Betty McIntosh, who served with the OSS in the China-Burma-India theater. Why not enlist Jennie’s services with the OSS in Sweden? She’s talented but lacks confidence. Pretty soon, Jennie found her voice.

As my research continued, I made a surprising discovery. One of the photos I’d taken in Stockholm turned out to be the former home of the American legation in Sweden. Jennie’s workplace. And I had thought it was just an example of lovely architecture.

I hope you’ll enjoy reading about Rafe and Jennie in No Neutral Ground.

Giveaway

No Neutral Ground grand prize

To celebrate her No Neutral Ground tour, Terri is giving away several prizes.  Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/97ca

White Review + Giveaway

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Purchase your copy in paperback here or in ebook here

Guest Post from Denise Weimer

When I speak to book clubs or people ask me why I started writing historical fiction, I tell them that as I grew up, my parents took me to numerous historical sites. I wondered who lived in an old house or town and what their lives were like. What treasures, what secrets, might I find if I could dig down to the bones of an old mansion? My active imagination kicked in, and I started scribbling stories in spiral bound notebooks. I knew from age eleven I wanted to be a writer, though for a time I considered historical preservation as a career. I found the perfect marriage of those desires in The Restoration Trilogy, my new series with Canterbury House Publishing.
The restoration my parents did on their own historic house and apothecary shop inspired White, Widow and Witch. While looking for a residence in a country community, Mom and Dad purchased a property they later learned belonged to a line of regionally famous doctors tracing back to Revolutionary War days. Watching them piece together stories from the past with the help of local historians nudged me to depart from the historical settings of my past novels (Redeeming Grace and The Georgia Gold Series) in favor of modern romantic suspense. Readers follow Jennifer Rushmore, a recent historic preservation graduate, and Michael Johnson, a brooding bachelor who has inherited property from ancestors he knows little about, as they restore a doctor’s house, apothecary shop and log cabin. During the restoration of each, they uncover a story from a different century (1920, 1870 and 1790) containing a lesson of “heart healing” they need to apply in the present.

Most of us have been through hardships in our lives that God would use to refine our characters or expose and heal pain from our pasts. Sometimes we’re tempted to just slap another coat of paint over a crack or build a cheap façade over a weakness. God knows that full restoration takes effort, time and expense, so He never goes to work without our permission. However, He is the only one who can bring us to wholeness.

Jennifer accepts the assignment in the eclectic community of Hermon while waiting for her dream job in Savannah, never imagining God might have other plans. Country neighbors determined to become friends, a handsome but secretive employer with conflicting ideas about how to conduct the restoration, and strange accidents hinting that someone doesn’t want them working on the property strip away Jennifer’s personal defenses. She comes to learn that when a person is open to the work of the Master Renovator, one can find blessings in the unlikeliest of places.

About the Book

COVER-WHITE_RGB72webWhen Jennifer Rushmore accepts a brooding bachelor’s job offer to act as coordinator for the restoration of his family’s historic doctor’s house (White), apothecary (Widow) and log cabin (Witch) in a rural Georgia community, little does she know it’s her own heart that will undergo the greatest renovation. Three stories. Three centuries. Three lessons on the healing of the heart. And one buried mystery that threatens their redemption.

White: As historic preservationist Jennifer and brooding bachelor Michael restore his ancestors’ historic doctor’s residence in a rural Georgia community, they uncover the 1920s-era prejudice and secrets that caused Michael’s branch to fall off the family tree. Recent graduate Jennifer is determined to fulfill her first professional position with integrity even if her employer lacks a proper appreciation of history. Far more challenging—and sinister—than the social landscape of Hermon are the strange accidents hinting that someone doesn’t want them on the Dunham property. Yet Michael’s and Jennifer’s own pasts pose the biggest obstacles to laying a fresh foundation of family and community.

My Two Cents

I was drawn into this book right away.  Denise does a wonderful job of foreshadowing what will happen throughout out the book.  Sometimes when you have a book that flashes back, it can get really confusing.  Not so with White. It was very clear what is current and what was passed.

The characters in White were very well written and I felt like I was right there watching the story.  There was tension and the mystery kept me on the edge of my seat.  I wanted to know why the accidents were happening  and why someone didn’t want them on the property.

It was obvious that the author did her research – both historically and on what a historic preservationist does.  The descriptions in the book are amazing and you can picture just what the author is describing.  For example, “Jennifer walked a straight line over slippery magnolia leaves to the red front door framed by the antebellum sidelight windows.” Denise’s description gives a wonderful visual picture in my mind.

White is definitely a book you will want to read.  It will keep you engaged from the time you pick it up.  I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

I was giving the book in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed were my own.

About the Author

head shotIn addition to The Restoration Trilogy, native Georgian Denise Weimer is the author of numerous magazine articles about her home state, romantic novella Redeeming Grace, The Georgia Gold Series (Sautee Shadows, The Gray Divide, The Crimson Bloom, and Bright as Gold). Bright as Gold won the 2015 John Esten Cooke Award for authentic Southern literature. She holds a journalism degree with a minor in history from Asbury University, is a wife and swim mom of two daughters, and always pauses for coffee, chocolate and old houses.

Giveway

In honor of the White Celebration Tour, Denise is giving away a print copy of WHITE: Book One of The Restoration Trilogy, a $15 Starbucks card to representing the coffee-loving modern heroine, and a vintage hat to represent the historical heroine. Click to enter:

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Blog Stops

April 19: Simple Harvest Reads

April 20: Singing Librarian Books

April 21: Christian Bookaholic

April 22: Southern Gal Loves to Read

April 23: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses

April 24: Daysong Reflections

April 25: Bigreadersite

April 26: Mary Hake

April 27: Red Headed Book Lady

April 28: Cassandra M’s Place

April 29: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

April 30: For the Love of Books

May 1: A Greater Yes

May 2: Reader’s Cozy Corner

A Season to Wed Review + Giveaway

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 About the Book

a season to wed

Click here to purchase your copy.

They’ve helped orchestrate the perfect day for countless couples. Now twelve new couples will find themselves in the wedding spotlight in the second Year of Weddings novella collection.

Love at Mistletoe Inn by Cindy Kirk

Sometimes the road to happiness is paved with youthful mistakes.

Ten years after what she thought was her almost-wedding, Hope Prentiss discovers that the ceremony counted—and, as fate would have it, the jilted John Burke has just ridden back into town. After spending some time with John and helping plan a Christmas wedding for a mystery couple, Hope begins to wonder if she really wants a divorce . . . or a real wedding of her own.

A Brush with Love by Rachel Hauck

Revealing the beauty in other women might be Ginger Winters’s specialty—but it will take an unexpected kind of love to help Ginger see the beauty in herself.

Ginger Winters will be the “beauty-maker” for the Alabama society wedding of the decade. But when high-school crush Tom Wells shows up looking for a haircut, Ginger’s thinly veiled insecurities threaten to keep her from love once again . . . despite Tom’s best efforts.

Serving Up a Sweetheart by Cheryl Wyatt

Meadow knows how to serve delicious food to match any wedding theme. But can she accept love when it’s served up on a silver platter?

Meadow Larson is having the mother of all Mondays when her roof caves in during a blizzard, right before the most important wedding contract of her career. Renovation contractor Colin McGrath offers to fix Meadow’s roof, even though he knows he is the last person she would accept help from.

But the more Meadow gets to know the new Colin, the more she realizes God may have something more permanent in store than a new catering kitchen.

My two Cents

Love at Mistletoe Inn by Cindy Kirk

This is a story about two adults who realized they were still married after  thinking it was never legal for 10 years.  I loved how the author showed how some of us are planners and can literally plan God out of the equation.  Cindy teaches us that sometimes we just have to be still and listen. I do have to give a warning that this book does push the boundaries of Christian fiction.  There was some content that made me uncomfortable and I would not let my young daughters read this story.

I give this story 3/5 stars due to sexual references (not explicit and within the confines of marriage).

A Brush with Love by Rachel Hauck

I loved this story because it was so relatable!  How many of us can see the beauty that God created in other people, but not see the beauty that God created in us.  Rachel does a wonderful job of portraying and gently dealing with what many of us women face when we look in the mirror.  You do not want to miss this book!

I give this story 5/5 stars.

Serving Up a Sweetheart by Cheryl Wyatt

Have you ever had something happen that is just terrible? It isn’t amazing when God can bring something wonderful out of it? Cheryl portrays this wonderfully in this story through the character of Meadow.  Sometimes God has a wonderful plan for us but we do not see it….or want to see it.

I give this story 5/5 stars.

I love how the wedding theme is featured within each of these stories but how each one takes a different theme in regards to faith.  Regardless if you enjoy books about weddings, your heart will be lifted by the themes of this book.

About the Authors

Rachel Hauck Bio:

Rachel Hauck is a USA Today Bestselling author. Her book, The Wedding Dress, was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times and was a RITA finalist. Her book Once Upon A Prince was a Christy Award finalist.

Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and two pets and writes from her ivory tower. Visit her online at rachelhauck.com, Facebook: rachelhauck, and Twitter: @RachelHauck.

Cindy Kirk Bio:

Cindy Kirk sold her first book in 1999 as a result of a contest win which garnered a critique of the entire manuscript. She’s been writing—and selling—ever since. Cindy has been a Booksellers’ Best Award Winner, a finalist for the National Readers’ Choice Awards and a Publishers Weekly best seller. Cindy has served on the Board of Directors of the Romance Writers of America (RWA) since 2007. In November 2014, she began serving as President of the 10,000+ member organization. She’s a frequent speaker at not only the national RWA conferences, but large regional writing conferences. She has also presented at smaller retreats and conferences across the country. She lives on an acreage in Nebraska with her high school sweetheart husband of too-many-years-to-count and their three “boys” (a shih tzu, a blue heeler and a dorkie). Their daughter lives close by with her wonderful husband and their two little girls. Cindy invites you to check out her websitewww.cindykirk.com. Twitter: @CindyKirkAuthor

Cheryl Wyatt Bio:

Cheryl Wyatt writes romance with virtue. She’s a USA Today bestselling author and has earned RT Top Picks, spots #1 and #4 on her debut publisher’s Top 10 Most-Blogged-About-Books list, Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence final, and other awards. Cheryl loves readers! Join her newsletter at www.CherylWyatt.com. Facebook: CherylWyattAuthor Twitter: @cherylwyatt

Giveaway

To celebrate the A Season To Wed Celebration Tour, Rachel Hauck is giving away a Kindle Fire! Click to enter [promosimple id=”953c”]

Blog Stops

April 5: Singing Librarian Books

April 6: Giveaway Lady

April 7: CTF Devourer

April 8: Splashes of Joy

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April 9: Tell Tale Book Reviews

April 9: Just Commonly

April 10: Daysong Reflections

April 11: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses

April 12: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

April 12: Seasons of Opportunities

April 13: Bigreadersite

April 13: Simple Harvest Reads

April 14: Texas Book-aholic

April 15: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

April 16: A Greater Yes

April 16: Cassandra M’s Place

April 17: Quiet Quilter

April 17: Bukwurmzzzz

April 18: Reader’s Cozy Corner

The Imposter Review + Kindle Fire Giveaway

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Book Information

the imposterA heart once deceived should not be easily fooled again . . .

Katrina Stoltzfus thought she had life and love all figured out: she was going to marry John and live happily ever after. But as her plans crumble before her eyes, she struggles to face an uncertain future. When a widow asks for help starting a new business, Katrina quickly agrees. She needs time to heal her broken heart, to untangle her messy life, to find a purpose.

What she doesn’t need is attention from Andy Miller, a farmhand who arrives at the widow’s farm just when help is most needed–and who always seems to say the right thing and be in the right place, at the right time. Is Andy for real or too good to be true? She’s been deceived once before, and she isn’t planning on experiencing it again.

My Two Cents

The Imposter by Suzanne Woods Fisher is the first novel in her new series The Bishop’s Family. When there is an author that I love, I am always nervous to read a novel in their new series.  What if I don’t like it? I am excited to say that I LOVED Suzanne’s The Imposter ! I read it in one sitting and can not wait for book two.

Suzanne’s characters were well written; very interesting and flawed.  She brings to light how none of us are perfect – even minister’s and their families. Yet, where there is hurt, there is healing and peace. The Imposter impresses on the reader the importance of faith and of trusting in God.

I give The Imposter  5 out of 5 stars. This is a must read!

Thank you to the author and Celebrate Lit for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Author Information

suzanne-croppedSuzanne Woods Fisher is an award-winning, bestselling author whose most recent novels include Anna’s Crossing and The Inn at Eagle Hill series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and The Heart of the Amish. She lives in California. Learn more at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and follow Suzanne on Twitter @suzannewfisher.

 

 

Guest  Post from Suzzanne Woods Fisher

If you think you have a pretty clear idea of what an Amish bishop is like—stern, authoritative, patriarchal?—have another think. David Stoltzfus in The Imposter is warm, kindhearted, a reluctant farmer, and quite attractive!

Sound like an unlikely character for an Amish novel? Maybe so, but David Stoltzfus is modeled after a bishop I met, years ago. This real-life bishop might be the most intelligent, thoughtful, spiritually sensitive, and well-read man I’ve ever met. We spent a morning talking Bonhoeffer in his Spartan living room, warmed by his woodstove.

I wanted to present the character of a bishop that best represented this man I’d grown to admire. So when it was time to create a proposal for a new series, I suggested ‘The Bishop’s Family,’ staring David Stoltzfus who was loosely based on this particular bishop.

Very loosely.

David Stoltzfus is a handsome, widowed father of six who runs a local bulk food store. His children are surprisingly nonconforming, outspoken, and fiercely protective of their clan. The real-life bishop is a farmer, happily married with four independently minded children, and looks…well, to be candid, he looks a little like Benjamin Franklin.

But here’s what they have in common: they both love to read, they love their families, and they love the work God has given them of tending a flock.

The Imposter begins as David Stoltzfus moves his family to Stoney Ridge for a fresh start, a new beginning. Things don’t start off well: his eldest daughter, Katrina, faces a crushing disappointment, his prodigal son Jesse has a bent for troublemaking, and then David realizes something fishy is going on in the little church.

A new life awaits the Stoltzfus family, but not the one they expected. Or wanted. But they are needed in Stoney Ridge, each one of them. Even Jesse. J

I hope you’ll feel as though you’ve made some new friends as you get to know David and his children. One thing I can promise: this bishop’s family will surprise you.

Happy Reading!

Warmly, Suzanne

www.suzannewoodsfisher.com

Giveaway

Suzanne is graciously giving away a Kindle Fire 7! Click below to enter!

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Blog Tour Stops

March 22: Quiet Quilter

March 23: Singing Librarian Books

March 23: Heidi Reads…

March 24: Splashes of Joy

March 24: Mary Hake

March 25: cherylbbookblog

March 25: The Power of Words

March 26: Reading Is My SuperPower

March 26: Just Commonly

March 27: Giveaway Lady

March 27: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

March 27: Cassandra M’s Place

March 28: Through The Open Window

March 28: Lane Hill House

March 28: Marilyn Ridgeway

March 29: Daysong Reflections

March 29: Rhonda’s Doings

March 29: Debbie Dusty Deliberatons

March 30: A Greater Yes

March 30: Diana’s Tea Time Reviews

March 30: Simple Harvest Reads

March 31: Texas Book-aholic

March 31: A Holland Reads

April 1: Blessed and Bewildered

April 1: Bukwurmzzz

April 2: Southern Gal Loves to Read

April 2: For The Love of Books

April 3: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses

April 3: Blossoms and Blessings

April 4: Books! Books! Books!

 

 

New Beginnings + KINDLE FIRE giveaway

New Beginnings by Pamela Jo is a 95 page novel in the Christian Amish genre.  It is published by BHG Publishing and was released on December 22, 2015. To purchase your copy from Amazon, click here.

About the Book

Final.jpgUpon her return from her best friend Charlie’s wedding, Victoria found that the beautiful city of Chicago had never seemed emptier and neither had her soul. She realized she was surrounded by all the people in the world and she still felt lonely. Deciding to take her friend Charlie’s advice and make a change in her life, she packed her bags and moved to the west coast of Florida. Little did she know that the young Amish girl that she met on the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico would begin a spiral of emotional changes for both of them.

MY TWO CENTS

New Beginnings lived up to its name. It was about new beginnings, fresh starts. When you have made poor decisions and you life is a mess, who doesn’t want to a new beginning?

This was such an encouraging book! Pamela Jo wrote from her heart; it was very touching and showed vulnerability and how God uses that to His glory.  It reminded me of God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness – how thankful I am for those blessing from the Lord.

The story line was well thought out and the characters were well written.  I felt like I was right there watching the story unfold.  I am anxiously waiting for the second book!

I give New Beginnings 4 out of 5 stars. You don’t want to miss this encouraging read!

About the Author

PamPromo2.jpgAuthor Pamela Jo, best known as “Whoopie Pie Pam”, is the author of several wonderful story/cookbooks, and the best-selling co-author of the #1 Best Selling series, The Divine Secrets of the Whoopie Pie Sisters.  She is also the founder and creator of the Whoopie Pie Book Club, a well know social media site.

While battling Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma, Pam created the Whoopie Pie Book Club.  For years, she called a group of ladies in her family by that same name.  Every year, they travelled to Amish Country for a retreat of reading Amish fiction, seeing the Amish sights and eating plenty of Whoopie Pies.

Inspired by the Amish for their simplicity in facing life, love of God, and honor for family, Pamela found a connection with the Amish.  As a result of her many years of traveling and conducting business with the Amish, she has established close friendships with many Amish families, friendships that she cherishes.  She refers to them as her extended family.

Contact the author at:

Email:   pamelajo@BHGPublishing.com

http://whoopiepieplace.com

www.facebook.com/whoopiepiepam

Giveaway

To celebrate the release of her newest book, Pamela Jo is giving away a special beach bag, including a Kindle fire tailored for your special day of relaxing at the beach.

Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/92ba

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Blog Tour Stops

March 4: Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

March 5: Christian Bookaholic

March 6: Bukwurmzzz

March 6: Splashes of Joy

March 7: Mary Hake

March 8: Quiet  Quilter

March 9: The Power of Words

March 10: ArtisticNobody

March 11: Debbie’ Dusty Deliberations

March 12: Simple Harvest Reads

March 13: A Greater Yes

March 14: Singing Librarian Books

March 15: Texas Book-aholic

March 16: Cassandra M’s Place

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!

 

Shattered Memories FB pic 2

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

The Master’s Calling

The Master’s Calling by Amber Schamel is a 232 page book in the Biblical fiction genre. It is the third book in the Days of Messiah series. The Master’s Calling was published by Vision Writer Publications and was released on Nov 2, 2015.  To purchase your copy, click here.

About the Book

Amber Schamel front finalAfter generations of waiting, the Messiah has come at last. And not a day too soon. All his life, Malon Ben-Tyrus has been stifled beneath Roman laws and religious traditions, and he longs to be free. The oppression of the Romans worsens every day, and the religious system led by the Scribes and Pharisees has grown corrupt.

Malon believes his life calling is to become a disciple of the Messiah and help free Israel from bondage.  When Jesus heads to Jerusalem for the Passover feast, Malon knows this will be a historic event. Jesus will enter the city as the Son of David and take His place as the Messiah of Israel. He longs to follow Jesus to Jerusalem, but his family won’t allow him to go.

When at last his family consents, Malon arrives in Jerusalem only to discover that he is too late. The man he thought to be the Messiah has
been crucified,and Barabbas—his greatest enemy—has been set free.

Appalled by the cowardice of Jesus’ disciples, Malon returns home seething with frustration and despair. Everything he believed he was destined to become died with Jesus. Was he wrong about his destiny?

About the Author

Multi-published author Amber Schamel writes riveting stories that bring HIStory to life. She has a passion for history, books and her Savior. This combination results in what her readers call “historical fiction at its finest”. A homeschool graduate from a family of 12 children, Amber found her calling early in life. First published at age 21, she has continued to hone her craft and is now the author of over half a dozen books. Between ministry, family and working in their family-owned businesses, Amber loves to connect with readers. Find her on the Stitches Thru Time blog, or on any of the major social media sites. Amber is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, and the Historical Novel Society.

Follow Amber: http://amberschamel.com/ Blog: http://www.stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAmberSchamel Twitter: @AmberSchamel Pintrest – http://pinterest.com/AmberDSchamel/ Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7073165.Amber_Schamel

Blog Tour Stops

Feb 10: Mary Hake

Feb 11: Red Headed Book Lady

Feb 12: A Greater Yes

Feb 13: Bigreadersite

Feb 14: Simple Harvest Reads

Feb 15: Artistic Nobody

Feb 16: Cassandra M’s Place

Feb 17: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

Feb 18: Bukwurmzzz

Giveaway Information