About the Book

Book: Her Guarded Heart

Author: Sharlene MacLaren

Genre: FICTION / Christian/Romance/Historical

Release date: February 1, 2022

At age twenty-one, Anna Hansen has had more than her share of hardship. Her mother died when she was eleven and her father just passed away under mysterious circumstances, leaving her to care for her ten-year-old brother, Billy Ray. She struggles to hang onto the family farm but it’s facing foreclosure and things are looking grim.

Next door, Jesse Fuller’s drive, work ethic, and skill ensure that his family’s farm is a growing success. His brothers think he should marry Anna to help out her and her kid brother…while also enabling the Fullers to expand their operation. But Jesse has never had romantic feelings for Anna and the idea doesn’t appeal to him.

In the meantime, Horace Blackthorn is hell-bent on acquiring the Hansen farm for reasons of his own. And he’ll do whatever it takes to get it—lie, cheat, steal…even murder.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Born and raised in west Michigan, Sharlene MacLaren attended Spring Arbor University. Upon graduating with an education degree in 1971, she taught second grade for two years, then accepted an invitation to travel internationally for a year with a singing ensemble. Afterward, she returned to her teaching job, then in 1975, she reunited with her childhood sweetheart, and they married that very December. They have raised two lovely daughters, both of whom are now happily married and enjoying their own families. Retired in 2003 after thirty-one years of teaching, Shar loves to read, sing, travel, and spend time with her family—in particular, her adorable grandchildren!

Shar has always enjoyed writing, and her high school classmates eagerly read and passed around her short stories. In the early 2000s, Shar felt God’s call upon her heart to take her writing pleasures a step further, so in 2006, she signed a contract with Whitaker House for her first faith-based novel, Through Every Storm, thereby launching her professional writing career. With almost two dozen published novels now gracing store shelves and being sold online, Shar gives God all the glory.

Shar’s novels have won numerous awards. Most recently, Their Daring Hearts was named a 2018 Top Pick by Romantic Times, and A Love to Behold was voted “Book of the Year” in 2019 by Interviews & Reviews. The two prior books in Shar’s Hearts of Honor series, centered on the Fuller brothers, include Her Rebel Heart and Her Steadfast Heart.

Shar has done numerous countrywide book signings and has participated in several interviews on television and radio. She loves to speak for community organizations, libraries, church groups, and women’s conferences. In her church, she is active in women’s ministries, regularly facilitating Bible studies and other events. Shar and her husband, Cecil, live in Spring Lake, Michigan.

More from Sharlene

• Setting is Lebanon, Ohio, after the Civil War
• The lead character’s father dies under mysterious circumstances; the next day, President Lincoln is assassinated
• This is Sharlene’s 24th novel with Whitaker House

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 22

Connie’s History Classroom, February 23

For Him and My Family, February 24

Fiction Book Lover, February 25 (Spotlight)

deb’s Book Review, February 25

Inklings and notions, February 26

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 27

Artistic Nobody, February 28 (Spotlight)

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 1

Texas Book-aholic, March 2

Bizwings Blog, March 3

Simple Harvest Reads, March 4 (Spotlight)

Britt Reads Fiction, March 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sharlene is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks 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/1ab32/her-guarded-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Daring: A Call to Courageous Manhood

Author: Paul Louis Cole

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Men’s Interests

Release date: February 15, 2022

Victory is always on the other side of a fight. Here is help to win the battles and keep on winning!

Daring: A Call To Courageous Manhood sets the tone for a new wave of masculinity by defining what it is to be a man of courage, endurance, and resolve. The unique, creative voice of Paul Louis Cole cuts through cultural clutter to speak to the
issues that lay in the heart of every man.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Paul Louis Cole, D.Th., president of Christian Men’s Network, is a communicator, church planter, pastor, author, and one of the world’s leading experts on men’s issues. Paul is an award-winning media writer/producer/director, but his passion is in carrying the message of Christlike manhood globally. The son of Edwin Louis Cole, he has continued the work of the Christian Men’s Network, helping pastors build strong men, strong families, and strong churches in over 100 nations. Paul’s mission is to rescue men, defeat fatherlessness, and end child abuse by providing leadership tools and strategies to bring a clear and defining word to men. Paul and his wife of forty-plus years, Judi, reside in Grapevine, Texas. They have three children and five grandchildren.

More from Whitaker House

“Electrifies the heart to beat loudly and strongly as the lion’s heart…”
—Leonard Sweet, New York Times Bestselling Author

“A masterpiece to challenge you…and change your life”
—Dale C. Bronner, Word of Faith Family Cathedral

“I highly recommend this book to help you navigate the challenges of life to become God’s man…”
—Jonathan Falwell

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 26

Artistic Nobody, February 27 (Spotlight)

Inklings and notions, February 28

Texas Book-aholic, March 1

Simple Harvest Reads, March 2 (Spotlight)

Miriam Jacob, March 2

deb’s Book Review, March 3

Fiction Book Lover, March 4 (Spotlight)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 5

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

Spoken from the Heart, March 7 (Spotlight)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 7

For Him and My Family, March 8

An Author’s Take, March 9

Guild Master, March 10 (Spotlight)

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 11

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Paul is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks 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/1b060/daring-a-call-to-courageous-manhood-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Inn on Hanging Hill

Author: Christy Barritt

Genre: Romantic Mystery

Release date: October, 2021

Each house has a history. Each person has a secret. Each turn of events leads to danger.

Lindsey Waters never wanted to return to the seaside inn where she grew up. Too many traumatic memories haunt the place, both from her childhood and from days gone by. But with guilt relentlessly chasing her after a tragic choice, she’s desperate for a fresh start.

Mysterious incidents begin plaguing the inn—dangerous incidents—that make it clear someone wants to scare Lindsey away. But why? Does it have anything to do with the two weeks missing from her memory when she was abducted at age twelve?

Childhood friend Benjamin Newsom seems like an answer to prayer when he shows up to work as a handyman. But something is different about him, something Lindsey can’t put her finger on. She’s certain Benjamin harbors secrets.

As peril continues to close in, Lindsey must decide if she wants to face her past or run. She doesn’t know whom she can trust, and whatever choices she makes will determine if she lives or if she becomes part of the inn’s tragic legacy.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna Cline

What I think you should know:

The Inn on Hanging Hill, a Romantic Suspense by Christy Barritt is the second book in the Beach House Mystery Series. It is a standalone contemporary novel.

What you might need to know:

Lindsey was kidnapped when she was 12 years old and has no memory of the time that she was missing.

What I think about this book:

 This is such a fast paced, heart stopping book. Barritt sweeps you into the story from the first page. When Lindsey returns to her childhood home she once again realizes that everything is not as it seems.  Lindsey was such an interesting character,  she has secrets in her past, some that she can’t even remember. Benjamin’s character kept me guessing for a long time.  I enjoyed watching Benjamin and Lindsey’s friendship evolve into more.  I appreciated how the story unfolded and was really intrigued trying to figure out all of the secrets before the author revealed them to us.

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

About the Author

USA Today has called Christy Barritt‘s books “scary, funny, passionate, and quirky.”

A USA Today and Publishers Weekly best-seller, Christy writes both mystery and romantic suspense novels that are clean with underlying messages of faith. Her books have sold more than three million copies, one has been made into a TV movie, and another is being developed for a TV series.

Christy’s books have won the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery, have been twice nominated for the Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, and have finaled for both a Carol Award and Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year.

She’s married to her prince charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious–but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado.

Christy currently splits her time between the Virginia suburbs and Hatteras Island, North Carolina. She loves spending time with her husband, her two sons, and her four dogs.

For more information, visit her website: www.christybarritt.com.

More from Christy

I’ve always loved old houses—ones you can look at and see that they were once full of life and love. But, through the years something happened, and these places now stand in neglect. Based off that idea, I developed the Beach House Mystery Series. Each book is a standalone—the series is connected only by theme—and features a different beach house on a different beach.

The Inn on Hanging Hill was inspired by my time on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The area was once thriving and one of the wealthiest in the country. But the railroad changed, and that left the area isolated and without enough work to support the population. It also left it with tons of history—and stories that go along with that history.

I hope you enjoy Lindsey’s story!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 14

Blossoms and Blessings, February 14

deb’s Book Review, February 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 16

Spoken from the Heart, February 16

Inklings and notions, February 17

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, February 18 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, February 18

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 19

Lighthouse-Academy, February 20

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

April Hayman, Author, February 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 22

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 23 (Spotlight)

Rebecca Tews, February 24

Texas Book-aholic, February 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 25

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 26

Blogging With Carol, February 26

Simple Harvest Reads, February 27 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Christy is giving away the grand prize package of a $100 Amazon gift card and eBook 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/1a45e/the-inn-on-hanging-hill-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Silencing the Siren

Author: Denise L. Barela

Genre: Christian Historical Mystery, Fairytale

Release date: January 4, 2022

Andrew Grayson thought he had everything… until he met her.

The indulged son of wealthy parents, Andrew has always gotten whatever he wanted almost before he knew he wanted it—clothes, gadgets… even a car! What more could a young man desire?

Enter Annabel Thompson. Freakshow mermaid extraordinaire… in a wheelchair!

Of course, her beauty attracts him. How could it not? Add to that a kind heart, and Andrew can’t help but fall for her.

Annabel’s connection with the freakshow repels his parents and their society friends. They want him to sever all ties with her and his new friends. Oh, and marry the “right” girl with the “right connections.” But he won’t do it. He’ll defy them and marry his little mermaid.

When Annabel turns up missing, declared dead, things don’t add up, Andrew begins asking some difficult questions, the most important being, “What happened to the little mermaid of the Coney Island freak show?”

Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. Silencing the Siren offers a retelling of “The Little Mermaid” that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat as you watch the story unfold.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you need to know:
Silencing the Siren by Denise L. Barela is part of the Ever After Mysteries. The series consists of standalone novels set in the 1920s, all as different fairytale retellings. This retelling of The Little Mermaid takes you from the world of old money and socialites to behind the scenes of Coney Island.

What you might need to know:
Annabel was born with a deformity in her legs.

What I think about this book:
This is a delightful retelling of The Little Mermaid. The story was a nice blend of sweet romance and mystery. I appreciate that it is told from the perspective of Andrew, a rich boy who longs for more than the superficial world that he has been raised in. It was nice to see Andrew’s integrity grow during the story. Andrew’s family was very easy to hate so I understand why he was drawn to the gentle kindness in Annabel. William broke my heart when told Andrew, “ Though I lost my daughter, the Lord has blessed me with a son.” After reading this charming debut novel, I can’t wait to read more from Barela.

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

Denise Barela’s passion for fiction, her faith, and general creativity define her life. In all things, she strives to glorify God, though especially in and through her writing. She has spent the past six years working for a publicity company and five years working as the head editor for a publishing company. With an MFA in Creative Writing and a Professional Writing certificate, Denise enjoys using her education and work experiences to help authors achieve their own writing dreams. When she’s not working away at her desk, you might find her reading a good book or following Alice down the rabbit hole…

More from Denise

Hello Readers!

I’m so excited to share Silencing the Siren with you! This book was so much fun to write and research. I learned so many fun facts about old cars, old New York, and even doorbells!

Yes, you read that correctly. Doorbells.

These noisy items were such a novelty in the 1920s that they were often given as Christmas gifts!

Crazy, right?

I wanted both Andrew and Annabel to represent that feeling we have all experienced at least once in our lives. That feeling of not belonging. It looks different for each person, but it’s a uniting feeling.

Annabel will never be accepted by those outside her family, but they more than make up for that. Andrew is popular and well-off in society, but as he comes to know the Lord, he starts to feel that rift with his superficial friends and family. It’s with other believers, Annabel’s family, that he finds that deep relationship he desires. They are more than willing to provide.

This is the beauty of the body of Christ. When we are sick or in need, the body of Christ comes together to support you in that time of need and extend Christ’s love to all corners of the globe.

I hope you enjoy reading Silencing the Siren as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 7

A Baker’s Perspective, February 7

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 9

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, February 9 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 10

Genesis 5020, February 10

Inklings and notions, February 11

Connect in Fiction, February 11

For Him and My Family, February 12

Blossoms and Blessings, February 12

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 13

deb’s Book Review, February 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 14

For the Love of Literature, February 14

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 15

Blogging With Carol, February 15

Connie’s History Classroom, February 16

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 17 (Spotlight)

Sodbuster Living, February 17

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 18

Austen’s Angle, February 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 19

Simple Harvest Reads, February 19 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Back Porch Reads, February 20

Through the Fire blogs, February 20

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/19bc6/silencing-the-siren-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Sword and the Song

Author: Carla Laureano

Genre: Fantasy (Celtic Fantasy – adult)

Release date: January 11, 2022

THE SHADOW OF WAR

Seare is at war. The Red Druid has continued to gain strength and power, and the people of Seare suffer beneath the ravages of the isle’s unbound spirits. The Fíréin are all that stand between the land and certain disaster. But there is strife within the Brotherhood as well: Eoghan still refuses to claim his rightful throne, leaving the responsibilities of rule to Conor and creating an uncomfortable distance between the sworn brothers.

When Conor leaves Ard Dhaimin to find the key to defeating the Red Druid, he delves into a world of shadows and danger which will bring him to the brink of madness and back. All the while Eoghan and Aine are left to pursue their own mission to defeat their adversary through her magical gifts.

But as the final battle looms ever closer, they realize that the cost of defeating the Red Druid may be greater than they’re willing to pay… and that nothing—and no one—is as it seems.

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Mindy

“Loyalty can neither be earned nor broken by threats.”

Anyone who enjoys fantasy would absolutely love this book and the series. I received the book from Enclave Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Carla Laureano is the two-time RITA® award-winning author of over a dozen books, spanning the genres of contemporary romance and Celtic fantasy. A graduate of Pepperdine University, she worked in sales and marketing for more than a decade before leaving corporate life behind to write full-time. She currently lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband, two sons, and an opinionated tortoiseshell cat named Willow.

More from Carla

Why We Should Read About Difficult Things

I’m not going to lie—a lot of my past reading has fallen into the feel-good category. Don’t get me wrong—I like my stories to have some depth, but there’s generally enough turmoil in everyday life that I often feel the need stories with predictably happy endings and not a lot of angst.

But I don’t necessarily think that’s the best approach in times of trouble. Which is why ever since the pandemic hit, I find myself gravitating toward messy, intense reads. Stories where everything goes wrong and it seems like nothing is going to ever work out in the end… until it does. I think it’s a way to work through my own feelings about the state of the world while still being assured that justice will be done, that hope is within reach, that the dawn will still come.

The Sword and the Song is that kind of book. As the third and final volume in the Song of Seare trilogy, things have come to a dangerous tipping point: the rightful High King has been revealed, tensions within the Brotherhood have reached their boiling point, and the Red Druid is slowly but surely moving toward his deadly endgame. Meanwhile, Conor finds his good heart and gentle nature becoming strained by the demands of leadership and the memory of the things that he’s seen and done to survive. It seems that even if victory is still possible—however distantly—it may come at a high personal cost for everyone involved.

There is no doubt that this is the darkest, most dangerous, and most exciting book of the Song of Seare trilogy: on every page, alliances are tested, friendships are shattered, and resolve is stretched to the breaking point. But I would argue that this is the kind of book we need right now. We may finally be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, but there’s no arguing that we’ve emerged from it changed in unexpected ways. Some of us may not yet see the light through the darkness. That’s why we find catharsis in reading about difficult things and take hope in their final resolution.

In both this book and in real life, we can be assured that hard times are all part of a bigger plan in the hands of our Creator…and while we may still need to walk through them, there is always One who stays by our side to the very end.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 28

Worthy2Read, January 29

By the Book, January 29

A Reader’s Brain, January 30

Inklings and notions, January 31

Texas Book-aholic, February 1

deb’s Book Review, February 2

Blossoms and Blessings, February 2

For Him and My Family, February 3

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 4

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 5

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

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 7 (Spotlight)

Blogging With Carol, February 7

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 9

Simple Harvest Reads, February 10 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carla is giving away the grand prize package of a hardcover set of the series (Oath of the Brotherhood, Beneath the Forsaken City, The Sword and the Song) and a $25 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/193c8/the-sword-and-the-song-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Overcoming Familiar Spirits

Author: Kynan Bridges

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Spiritual Warfare

Release date: January 25, 2022

Have You Invited Demonic Enemies into Your Life? 

Many Christians are being tormented by unseen demonic powers called “familiar spirits” that operate inconspicuously within the fabric of people’s thoughts, emotions, and mindsets—working so secretly that they usually remain undetected. These demonic spirits can be attached to specific individuals, families, or bloodlines.

Familiar spirits hinder believers’ lives in numerous ways, diminishing their spiritual vision and seeking to prevent them from fulfilling their destinies. They may block people’s ability to overcome negative patterns, attain lasting success, and even marry and conceive children.

Without realizing it, we can invite such unseen enemies into our lives. We may have left open a door to their influence due to personal trauma, unforgiveness, bitterness, or false thinking. Then, we become trapped in a type of spiritual debt. We are restricted from being fully free in Christ so that we constantly live with frustration, worry, anger, or a feeling of hopelessness.

Overcoming Familiar Spirits by pastor and teacher Dr. Kynan Bridges powerfully exposes Satan’s demonic agenda so you can be set free. You will learn to detect familiar spirits like the spirits of sabotage, calamity, premature death, delay, and perversion. You will gain a fresh revelation of who you are in Christ and your authority as a believer and be equipped with the tools to enjoy lasting freedom.

Through his books, preaching, and counseling, Dr. Bridges has shown thousands of believers how to address hindrances in their lives. Discover how to eradicate unseen familiar spirits and be released from spiritual bondage and debt!

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Dr. Kynan T. Bridges is the senior pastor of Grace & Peace Global Fellowship in Tampa, Florida. With a profound revelation of the Word of God and a dynamic teaching ministry, Dr. Bridges has revolutionized the lives of many in the body of Christ. Through his practical approach to applying the deep truths of the Word of God, he reveals the authority and identity of the new covenant believer. A highly sought speaker and published author of several books, including Unlocking the Code of the Supernatural, School of the Miraculous, The Power of Prophetic Prayer, Invading the Heavens, Unmasking the Accuser, and Kingdom Authority, Dr. Bridges is also a committed husband to Gloria and father of five beautiful children: Ella, Naomi, Isaac, Israel, and Anna.

More from Kynan

Many Christians are being tormented by unseen demonic powers called “familiar spirits” that operate inconspicuously within the fabric of people’s thoughts, emotions, and mindsets—working so secretly that they usually remain undetected. Familiar spirits hinder believers’ lives in numerous ways, diminishing their spiritual vision, blocking their success in life, and seeking to prevent them from fulfilling their destiny. Overcoming Familiar Spirits by Dr. Kynan Bridges powerfully exposes Satan’s demonic agenda. You will gain a fresh revelation of who you are in Christ and your authority as a believer and be equipped with the tools to enjoy lasting freedom.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 24

Texas Book-aholic, January 25

Inklings and notions, January 26

Fiction Book Lover, January 26

For Him and My Family, January 27

deb’s Book Review, January 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 29

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 30

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 31

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 1

Blossoms and Blessings, February 1

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 3

Artistic Nobody, February 4

Simple Harvest Reads, February 5

Spoken from the Heart, February 6

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Kynan 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/186be/overcoming-familiar-spirits-celebration-tour-giveaway-copy

About the Book

Book: Magdelena’s Choice

Author: Molly Jebber

Genre: AMISH HISTORICAL ROMANCE

Release date: January 25, 2022

As the daughter of a wealthy rancher, Magdelena Beachy may not truly need her job at the Amish Charm Bakery, but she enjoys tending to customers, be they neighbors or curious Englischers. Only one thing would make life sweeter, and that’s if Toby Schlabach would court her. It’s not just his dimples and smile that warm Magdelena’s heart—she admires his kindness and values. Yet she worries their chance may slip away . . .

With his daed ill and his mother and sister depending on him, Toby can’t yet offer Magdelena the future she deserves. But even as he nears his goal, he learns her father has arranged a match with another suitor. Magdelena risks shunning if she goes against her family. Choosing a path will take courage as well as faith—in God’s plan, and in this steadfast, tender love . . .

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

 Magdalena’s Choice is the fifth book in the Amish Charm Bakery series by Molly Jebber. While this book can be a standalone I recommend reading the previous books in the series so that you get the stories and back stories that build up to this book. The story is set in 1914 in an Ohio community where Amish families and English families still lived and worked in close proximity with each other. This book follows Magdalena and Toby who we have met in previous books.

What I think about this book:

Jebber once again whisked me away to 1914  Charm, Ohio, a community whose residents have captured my imagination. By the fifth book in a series I feel like I am dropping in on old friends and this book was no exception.  Toby’s character captured me before Magdalena’s due to the sacrifices that he has made for his family. I was very excited to see him get his chance at a happy ending.  I really appreciate the details that Jebber put into this book and the way that she used some of the supporting characters to show that even though the Amish strive to set themselves apart they still have many struggles that other Christian communities struggle with.  This was a wonderful addition to the series, I look forward to reading more about this community 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

Molly Jebber is a best-selling and award-winning author of Amish Historical Romance. Molly’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly Best Ten lists, USA Today’s HEA, featured in live video on Naples News, many media outlets across the U.S. You’ll find her books on most stores the first three months of their release across the U.S, UK, Canada, and more. She’s been interviewed on television, and she’s a touring speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, other women’s professional organizations, and she offers presentations on writing, agent or no agent, publishing, and marketing. She also speaks about the Amish lifestyles and traditions. She says the most rewarding part about writing stories is meeting wonderful readers who become friends through social media and at her speaking events. Please visit her website: http://www.mollyjebber.com for a full list of her books, speaking events and recipes.

She loves God, her family, and friends and Florida sunshine. She says yes to swimming, the beach, golf, and time with her family and friends, and no to coconut, onions, and skydiving!

More from Molly

Magdelena faces difficult decisions when having a difference of opinion with her parents. If she goes against them, she’ll face serious consequences.  Sometimes we have family situations that arise, and they require us to search our heart for how to deal with them. Toby also faces hardship, tragedy, and being judged wrongly by others. Toby and Magdelena are sure God has a plan for their lives, but they’re not sure if they are following his will. They pray for guidance. You’ll enjoy their friends and how they come into play in this story. We all have friends we love, and memories we make with them. They root for us. The same goes for this couple. You’ll wonder what will happen next, and just when you think things are better, something else happens. I hope you enjoy the story. Don’t forget to sign up for a chance to win the grand prize at the end of this tour!

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, January 29

Bizwings Blog, January 29

Bigreadersite, January 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 30

She Lives To Read, January 31

Texas Book-aholic, January 31

Lighthouse Academy Blog, February 1 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Inklings and notions, February 1

For Him and My Family, February 2

Simple Harvest Reads, February 2 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 3

Older & Smarter?, February 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 4

deb’s Book Review, February 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 5

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 6

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 7

SusanLovesBooks, February 7

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 8

Connie’s History Classroom, February 9

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 10 (Spotlight)

Splashes of Joy, February 10

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Molly is giving away the grand prize of a $75 Amazon gift!!

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/193cb/magdelena-s-choice-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Reclaiming Hope

Author: Carolyn Miller

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: December 7, 2021

Callie Steele might be a bit… focused on work, but despite what her employers say, she enjoys her well-ordered, productive life.

When she’s sent to meet the owners of an estate requiring post-hurricane landscaping, Callie meets their son, Kai Brody, a super-chilled pro surfer, who is as opposite from her as they come. Though initially smitten, Callie knows a relationship with Kai is a bad idea—a very bad idea.

Kai, however, can’t help but be intrigued by someone who challenges him to make something of his life again. He’s determined to pursue her, if she’ll give him half a chance.

The more time they spend together, negotiating the challenges of work, illness, and family, the more their opposing outlooks clash and connect. What do these unlikely friends really want from life?  Is it best to focus on work or recreation?

As Kai and Callie answers from the Lord, they also must consider if such complete opposites have enough in common to make a relationship last.

Reclaiming Hope concludes the Hooper Island stories of the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

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

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

 Reclaiming Hope is a contemporary Christian Romance by Carolyn Miller is the eighteenth  book in the Independence Island Series and the sixth book set on Hooper.  This book features several characters from previous books and does give spoilers for those characters, however it can be read as a standalone. This book features Callie who has been in several previous books

What I think about this book:

I really enjoyed this book, it may be one of my favorites from the series so far. Callie was a character that I was intrigued about after reading about her in previous books so it was neat to get to look further into her character.  Kai was a very interesting new character,  it was interesting to see how his new found faith influenced the decisions that he made. I enjoyed the friendship that developed between the two. The problems that they faced were very realistic and made me root for them even more.  This was a wonderful story of opposites attract.  I can’t wait to see the characters again in another book.

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

About the Author

Carolyn Miller is an Australian author of inspirational romance, particularly that of the Regency era, and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds where flawed people can grow in faith, hope and love through stories that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives.

More from Carolyn

For Reclaiming Hope, my next book in the Independence Islands series, I was thrilled to finally turn the spotlight onto Callie Steele, whose sassy attitude and words of wisdom in earlier books have made a mark on the other employees at Greener Gardens – and has already endeared her to readers who have been begging to read Callie’s story.

Callie needed a special someone who could help this hyper-organized checklist-loving woman see that there is more to life than meeting a deadline. Enter Kai Brody, a super-chilled and laidback surfer whose enviable travels around the world broaden Callie’s horizons, and watch sparks fly. I consider Reclaiming Hope to be one of my most humorous books yet, as these two trade banter as opposites who attract – but can they last?

And yet Reclaiming Hope isn’t merely froth and sea-foam, bigger questions concerning family, identity and whether God’s plans can be considered good when people are forced to live with the consequences of poor choices. I really enjoy writing fiction like this, fiction that is grounded in truth, with realistic, flawed characters who are on God journeys to find faith, freedom, and hope.

I’m so glad people are really enjoying my new contemporary books, where I can bring my love of gardens (& my horticulturalist hubby’s expertise!) to a new audience. Check out my website www.carolynmillerauthor.com to see what’s growing in my garden here in my corner of Australia.

If you enjoy stories of hope, heart and humor, then you’ll be sure to enjoy this novel about a workaholic and the broken surfer as together they find renewed hope for their hearts.

Happy reading!

Carolyn

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 21

Blossoms and Blessings, January 21

lakesidelivingsite, January 22

Texas Book-aholic, January 22

Inklings and notions, January 23

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, January 23 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, January 24

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 24

Daysong Reflections, January 25

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 25

Aryn the Libraryan, January 26

Lots of Helpers, January 26

deb’s Book Review, January 27

Blogging With Carol, January 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 28

Simple Harvest Reads, January 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 29

Older & Smarter?, January 29

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, January 30

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

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 31 (Spotlight)

Lis Loves Reading, January 31

SusanLovesBooks, January 31

She Lives To Read, February 1

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 2

Kayem Reads, February 2

Splashes of Joy, February 3

Connect in Fiction, February 3

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/186ba/reclaiming-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Marriage Conversations

Author: Cathy Krafve

Genre: Nonfiction

Release date: February 7, 2021

Are you cherishing a marriage that’s off the charts? Or co-existing in a fragile one?

What we all really want is intimacy and tingling excitement. Is true love just a fairy tale? Or can life-long companionship be a reality? You bet it can!   Author Cathy Krafve shares the personal stories and conversations she first created to help inspire success for her own kids’ marriages.

Marriage entails serious communication. So, we turn to the Master Communicator for strategies to soften hearts and strengthen resolve. Cathy will help you…

– Initiate practical, foundational truths.

– Replace magical thinking with rock solid miraculous biblical truths.

– Understand why we get married in the first place.

– Invigorate your closest relationship.

For instance, learn the no-fail trick for changing an argument back into a conversation.

Inspire the delightful results your heart is craving.

Go from blah to breathtaking!

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Queen of Fun and Coffee Cup Philosopher, Cathy Primer Krafve delivers creativity and encouragement on every page.

She understands companionship begins with authentic conversation. With journalistic fervor and a knack for laughter and story-telling, Cathy puts a snappy spin on deeply spiritual truths.

Host of Fireside Talk Radio, her weekly blogs and podcasts reach over 2 million listeners and readers annually. Her audiences learn to leverage compassion and courage in order to engage in two-way conversational adventures.

Join the Fireside Tribe as we create life so beautiful in its imperfection generations after us will be retelling our stories with joy and laughter.

Truth with a Texas twang spoken here!

More from Cathy

From Blah to Breathtaking!

Why does conversation at home have to be so hard? What makes it hard? How do you keep hanging in there when it’s tough?

“So, Dave and I slogged ahead. Yuck. Like trudging through a chilly winter night in clumsy snow boots, we were determined to survive,” reports Author Cathy Krafve.

Then, they began to talk a little more openly to their closest friends. Yep, they were desperate. Interestingly, they discovered marriage conversations were a problem for a bunch of their friends, too.

Lo and behold, communicating turned out to pretty much be a universal challenge!

“We picked up tons of new communication skills,” she adds, laughing, “Good thing, too, since we really NEEDED new skills!”

What can we change at home to train ourselves and our kiddos to have terrific conversations? Each chapter of Marriage Conversations offers great ideas you can try out at your house. Here are a few chapters:

• Negotiating like an Oil Tycoon
• Creating a Personal Etiquette
• Only Keeping What We Give Away
• Asking Power Questions
• Understanding Fellowship as the Best Foreplay

Queen of Fun and Coffee Cup Philosopher, Cathy delivers creativity and encouragement on every page of Marriage Conversations: from co-existing to cherished.

While it’s the perfect book for your book club, Bible Study, or Sunday school class, Cathy has a more, ahem, intimate suggestion. Read it out loud with your spouse.

“What’s really great is the number of men who tell me they read it with their wife! Passing it back and forth. Wow! That’s genius,” she reports. “Truthfully, though, when guys tell me it’s the funniest book they’ve ever read, I assume it’s the only marriage book they’ve ever read!”

Each chapter ends with thought-provoking questions, personal applications, and prayer.

So, how things are with Dave and Cathy now? Fair question.

“We still have arguments occasionally, maybe once a year. In some ways maybe it’s worse because it doesn’t happen very often. I get real panicky, like, Oh no! We’re falling back into our bad habits,” she confesses.

But she adds they now know how to get into a better conversation place quickly. Also, they intentionally cherish each other. So that’s really made a difference.

“But one thing I want people to know; this book is not about how to do it yourself. This book is about how I messed up. And here’s what I learned from my mistakes. If you want some good ideas, here are the things that worked for us,” says Cathy

Tons and tons of good ideas. Anything she could get her hands on.

“Because I was originally writing for my children,” she explains. “So, I didn’t hold anything back. I don’t think anyone will feel preached at. I’m pretty sure reading friends will think, Okay this woman has been in the trenches. She gets it.”

Cathy is known for putting a snappy spin on deeply spiritual truths. She writes with journalistic fervor and a knack for laughter and story-telling.

Host of Fireside Talk Radio, her weekly blogs and podcasts reach over 3 million people annually.  She is also author of The Well: The Art of Drawing Out Authentic Conversations.

Companionship begins with authentic conversations. How do we go from co-existing to cherished? Cathy understands good communication tools can change everything!  Order two copies today; one for yourself and one to share with a friend!

Truth with a Texas twang spoken here!

Q&A with Cathy Krafve

What does success as an author look like to you?

A new friend sat across from me and looked tenderly in my eyes.

“I want you to know your book gave me the courage I needed to talk to my boss. It worked!”

For me, success as an author is when someone makes a few minor changes in their conversations because of my books and immediately experiences richer companionship. If only I’d practiced these conversation skills sooner myself!

Which character did you connect to best in this book?

In my Bible, I always skimmed past the woman at the well. Why? I saw her as isolated and pitiful, much like I saw myself. So sad.

After writing a whole book about her conversation with Jesus, she’s my hero, a true champion. She influenced her whole community. One woman. Wow!

Now I consider her my personal friend and soul sister. I can’t wait to see her in heaven!

Which part of the book was the most difficult to write?

My editors made me earn every word. I was taking snapshots of my Lexicon to send proof of the ideas I shared in this book.

In particular, we traditionally make unfounded assumptions about the woman at the well. That’s not fair.

What the New Testament writers left out is as interesting to me as the tiny bit of detail they included. They did not witness the conversation, so either she or Jesus reported the story to them.

Fortunately, I’ve heard so many personal stories from women because of our show (Fireside  Talk Radio). I’m convinced ALL women treasure away stories we don’t share easily.

In The Well, I was able to present a shift in WHY Jesus said what he did about her 5 husbands. It’s really important we understand her integrity and courage with deep admiration.

Writing a tradition-breaking, yet valid perspective is always hard work, but so worth it!

What inspired this book?

One leader failed to hear me in a crucial situation. Then, I started noticing a trend among certain types of leaders. Soon, I plopped open my Bible. There’s got to be something here about talking to people who don’t listen.

Next thing you know, I had a list of over 40 ways Jesus interacted with the woman at the well in ONE conversation. Talk about a conversational adventure!

I need this information myself, so the book includes really personal stories.

Which author influenced the you most?

Storytelling is my goal, in order to live up to the impact James Michener had on my love of literature. Plus, I love John Trant’s book, The Blessing. Of course, all of Josh McDowel’s work, too.

What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

It’s hard to pick just one, but my life verse is:

“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”~ Luke 11:13 NKJV

Especially in difficult times, it’s good to be reminded first that God’s gifts for us are often unexpected. His definition of “good” is seriously beyond our comprehension. But second, I like picturing His dazzling, gentle Spirit in my heart as my Best Friend and Companion in ALL circumstances. There’s comfort and joy in hanging out with Him.

What is your vacation spot?

The beach with my boyfriend and hubby, the one and only, David Krafve. Under an umbrella with a beach book.

What are you reading right now?

Ironically, I saw Jennifer Lynn Cary’s The Weather Girls (Book 1: Sunny) in a Celebrate Lit Virtual Tour and ordered it on the spot. I’m loving it. Very relaxing and fun to read. Fiction is my reward at the end of the day for working hard.

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

Deer munch tender green ivy within touching distance from our tall front window. If they knew I watched, the soft tan fur of the nearest doe would ripple with surprise. Her head would pop up and they would all flee in strides as graceful as poetry.

Squirrels jump between bare-limbed trees. Scampering up my wooden porch railing, they pause their manic motion long enough to crack the Texas pecans my grandchildren leave as treats.

Spread all around me on the family table, sloppy piles of creative chaos testify that my mind needs order. Where is the stillness I crave? Who can help me put mere words on paper to express the immeasurable love God offers each of us?

This question puts a smile on my face. I wish you were sitting next to me.

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

If I felt really self-disciplined, I would ask for a translation of Tertullian’s thesis refuting gnosticism in order to understand that ancient conversation more thoroughly. Yeah. I keep meaning to reread it, but it’s so bite and chew.

Instead, just give me A. A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh. His characters are their own Enneagram! I’m Piglet, in case you’re wondering. Although people always assume I’m Tigger. Which character are you?

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 11

Texas Book-aholic, January 12

Inklings and notions, January 13

For Him and My Family, January 14

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

deb’s Book Review, January 16

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 17

The Author Reads, January 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 18

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 19 (Spotlight)

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, January 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 21

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

Mary Hake, January 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 23

Simple Harvest Reads, January 24 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cathy is giving away the grand prize package of a $100 Amazon gift card and a copy of both The Well and Marriage Conversations!!

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/1719a/marriage-conversations-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Buried Cold Case Secrets

Author: Sami A. Abrams

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: December 28, 2021

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

Buried Cold Case Secrets by Sami A. Abrams is a Love Inspired Romantic Suspense.

What you need to know:

Melanie was abducted and tortured as a teen, she suffers from PTSD and Anxiety due to this.

What I think about this book:

If you are looking for a crazy fast paced mystery look no further.  From the day that Melaine steps back into her hometown someone is determined to silence her one way or another.  I really enjoyed this story, it was interesting to see how Melaine dedicated her life to making up for leaving her behind. It was hard to watch the interaction between Melaine and Jason at the beginning of the story, but I liked his character much more after he started softening to Melaine. The author did a great job of letting the story unfold, the characters were compelling and I couldn’t wait to finish the book. This was the first book that I have read from Abrams, 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

Two-time Genesis winner Sami A. Abrams and her husband live in Northern California, but she’ll always be a Kansas girl at heart. She enjoys visiting her two grown children and spoiling their sweet fur babies. Most evenings, if Sami’s not watching sports, you’ll find her engrossed in a romantic suspense novel. She thinks a crime plus a little romance is the recipe for a great story.

More from Sami

What writer doesn’t grow up reading every chance they get? That would be me.

Until my thirties, I hated to read. Then someone told me about Terri Blackstock, and I decided to give her books a try. I was hooked. I guess there’s something to finding the right genre. Romantic Suspense is it for me. Of course, that makes sense. I love CSI, NCIS, and Criminal Minds. Over the years, I have expanded my taste, but there’s just something about suspense that keeps me coming back.

A little over five years ago, I decided to start checking off some of the items on my bucket list. I learned how to rock climb and got my scuba certification, among other things. When I got to the item, writing a novel, I sat down and pounded it out. Check the box; I was done. Wrong. God had other plans and placed some amazing people in my life.

One of those plans was attending MurderCon, a conference for writers where they learn from experts about, you guessed it…murder. Actually, it’s about police procedures, crime scene analysis…the list goes on and on. One of the workshops I attended was with a forensic anthropologist, and the idea for Melanie Hutton and Buried Cold Case Secrets was born.

I loved writing Melanie’s story. She’s a fighter and refuses to let anything stand in her way, including the man, Jason Cooper, who blames her for her best friend’s death. Jason holds on to the past and his hatred toward Melanie, but he soon learns that if he puts aside his assumptions and listens, he’ll discover the truth about the day his sister died. Letting go of his anger and blame is tough for Jason, but when he does, he finds the life he’s always wanted.

I hope you enjoy reading Melanie and Jason’s story as much as I did writing it.

I’d love to hear from you. Please visit my website at samiaabrams.com and sign up for my newsletter.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 8

The Avid Reader, January 8

Bigreadersite, January 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 9

Bizwings Blog, January 9

Texas Book-aholic, January 10

The Sacred Line, January 10

Inklings and notions, January 11

Labor Not in Vain, January 11

Betti Mace, January 11

For Him and My Family, January 12

For the Love of Literature, January 12

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, January 13 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, January 13

Lights in a Dark World, January 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 14

Elly Gilbert, January 14

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 15

Mary Hake, January 15

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 16

Kayem Reads, January 16

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 17 (Spotlight)

Through the Fire Blogs, January 17

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, January 18

Britt Reads Fiction, January 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 19

Blogging With Carol, January 19

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 20

Simple Harvest Reads, January 20 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, January 21

Pause for Tales, January 21

Blossoms and Blessings, January 21

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sami is giving away the grand prize package of a book, a coffee mug, a notebook, a pen!!

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/17198/buried-cold-case-secrets-celebration-tour-giveaway