Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Review: Byrd's -Eye View by Chautona Havig

About:

If everything looks so perfect, how does she know it's all wrong?

Madeline just wanted to learn to develop her own photographs. It seemed an innocent enough pastime until she sees something in the developer’s tray that piques her meddlesome curiosity.

Now she’s on the hunt for clues to spare a man’s life, and she might just land her father in hot political waters while she’s at it.

Not only that, but romance is in the air, and the people closest to her are acting rather moonstruck. Is it possible for spring fever to arrive six months early?

The fifth book in the Meddlin’ Madeline Series, Byrd’s-Eye View,sees Madeline back at home in Rockland and determined to stay out of trouble, although that’s not likely to happen, is it?

My Thoughts:

Madeline is in trouble again. But not really due to her own meddling this time. She just happens to notice things that others do not. Madeline has done some maturing and she is really trying to be a proper lady, she just cannot help her natural instincts.

I enjoyed getting to know this group of people. My daughter read the first five books and was unable to read this one so I stepped in and though I know I missed some back story, (which I did discuss with my daughter) I felt comfortable enough to continue on with this 5th book. And as author Havig's prowess as an author shows, I was quickly caught up in the story.

The history around the camera, crimes scenes, etc. (no spoilers), was rather intriguing and a little bit shocking as well.

Russell quickly put me in the mind of Mr. Knightly. Such a proper young man who really doesn't let his feelings rule him, yet he keeps Madeline grounded and as safe as he can. I do hope there is more to this series. I would like to see what happens in their future acquaintance. Hopefully some kissing!

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

Friday, September 25, 2020

Review: Until I Met You by Tari Faris

About:

Welcome back to Heritage, Michigan--the small town with a big heart

When she hears that the town of Heritage is looking for a new librarian, Libby Kingsley jumps at the opportunity. Little did she know the library is barely more than a basement room stuffed with dusty, outdated books. What the community really needs is a new building. But the only funds available are those being channeled into the new town square, and the landscape architect in charge of the project wants nothing to do with her plans.

All Austin Williams wants to do is get the town square project finished, and he hopes it is enough to save the family business. Then he can extricate himself from the town that reveres the brother who cost him so much. But the local media and the town's new librarian seem to be conspiring against him at every turn. Will the determined bookworm find her way into his blueprints--and possibly even his heart?

My Thoughts:

Until I Met You is another heartwarming read by Tari Faris who takes us once again to the town of Heritage. As the town is trying to restore and become relevant again, the Williams brothers need to restore their relationship.

What I liked is that we get not one but two romances. Nate and Austen are dealing with ramifications from Nate's past. A little bit of a prodigal story here. Nate is a pastor now and Austen cannot understand why everyone loves his tattooed, motorcycle riding brother while he deems himself the responsible one. This puts Austen in a rather dark and moody state.

Enter the girls, Olivia and Libby. Olivia loves Nate and a Nate loves Olivia but Nate just sees that he is not good enough for her. Olivia is also working on becoming a journalist so some of her reporting puts her in uncomfortable and humorous positions. Which gets Nate's protective side going.

Libby is Luke's sister and she has just moved to Heritage. She has been suffering it seems from PTSD from an incident in her life and she is trying to move on and make a life for herself. She and Austen don't quite hit it off at first, but as they become "friends" the kissing soon begins. And Austin, well he is not always dark and moody, he can be quite impulsive and romantic as well.

It was good to meet up with Luke and Hannah again, even though their story was a little sad. Throw in a few naughty dogs and Otis the evermoving hippo statue, major town renovations and you have another great small town read.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author:

Tari Faris is the author of You Belong with Me. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers and My Book Therapy, she is the projects manager for My Book Therapy, writes for learnhowtowriteanovel.com, and is a 2017 Genesis Award winner. She has an MDiv from Asbury Theological Seminary and lives in the Phoenix, Arizona, area with her husband and their three children. Although she lives in the Southwest now, she lived in a small town in Michigan for 25 years.

Review: Something Worth Doing by Jane Kirkpatrick

About:

Some things are worth doing--even when the cost is great

In 1853, Abigail Scott was a nineteen-year-old school teacher in Oregon Territory when she married Ben Duniway. Marriage meant giving up on teaching, but Abigail always believed she was meant to be more than a good wife and mother. When Abigail becomes the primary breadwinner for her growing family, what she sees as a working woman appalls her--and prompts her to devote her life to fighting for the rights of women, including the right to vote.

Based on a true story, Something Worth Doing will resonate with modern women who still grapple with the pull between career and family, finding their place in the public sphere, and dealing with frustrations and prejudices when competing in male-dominated spaces.

My Thoughts:

Abigail (Jenny) Duniway was a woman who in her day felt for all women and wanted so much more for her sisters, daughters, and the future women of the world. More than what her late mother had. Something Worth Doing is based on the true story of Abigail who fought for women's rights, especially the right to vote the best way she could, with her written words.

What really impressed was how the author wrote Abigail's feelings and thoughts and how really they are the universal concerns of women. I felt for Abigail, her wants buried by just survival and all the work a women of that day had to do. Concerns of her household, the very real dangers she and her husband faced. The loss of their home and livelihood. The real fears and unconditional love she had for her children.

Ben, her husband was a good guy. He didn't always understand her, but he did love her. Abigail wanted to be his partner for life, not be treated like another possession. They had their troubles. But what marriage doesn't. Especially when one makes an unwise decision that affects all the family.

I was caught up in this story. I feel the author caught the essence of who Abigail was. She was a woman, wife, mother, suffragist, fighter, and most of all she was a woman of worth. I appreciate all the more what our ancestors fought so hard for and won for us.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author:

Jane Kirkpatrick is the New York Times and CBA bestselling and award-winning author of more than 30 books, including One More River to Cross, Everything She Didn't Say, All Together in One Place, A Light in the Wilderness, The Memory Weaver, This Road We Traveled, and A Sweetness to the Soul, which won the prestigious Wrangler Award from the Western Heritage Center. Her works have won the WILLA Literary Award, the Carol Award for Historical Fiction, and the 2016 Will Rogers Gold Medallion Award. Jane divides her time between Central Oregon and California with her husband, Jerry, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Caesar. Learn more at www.jkbooks.com.

Review: A Ranger for the Twins by Tanya Agler

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

A Ranger for the Twins

By Tanya Agler

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

October 6, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She fell from grace…

Before falling for him

When her husband defrauded the town of Hollydale, now-divorced mom Lucie Decker went from being the town darling to total pariah. Now she’s launching a new business and needs ranger Caleb Spindler’s help. And her twins adore Caleb. After all, he’s a genuine hero—even if he is hiding a secret. But while Lucie’s heart has forgotten how to trust, it still remembers how to fall in love…

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | IndieBound

Other Books in the Series

The Sheriff's Second Chance

By Tanya Agler

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages

January 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Broken things can’t be fixed…

Or can they?

Officer and single dad Mike Harrison doesn’t believe in second chances. Ever. That is, until he learns that his former best friend—gorgeous green-eyed car mechanic Georgie Bennett—is back in town. Unfortunately, she’s also a suspect in a recent break-in! But it’ll take an old classic car to show Mike and Georgie that almost anything can be restored with a little patience…and a whole lot of love.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | BAM | Walmart

Harlequin Print | Apple Books | Google Play | Kobo

My Thoughts:

Lucie has moved back to her hometown, this once town darling is now looked at with suspicion as her ex-husband defrauded many people out of their money. Using her late parents property, she has a solid business plan, if only people would give her a chance to get her business off the ground.

Turning to once upon a time friend and now returned town hero, park ranger Caleb has come back with a dual purpose. To find out what Lucy needs and to help his parents regain their hard earned money.

I cannot imagine how hard it would be to be judged for the criminal doings of your spouse. Even though Lucie was not aware of her ex's criminal activities and was cleared of any wrong doing, it is going to take a lot to get the townspeople to ever accept her again. This was a story of starting over from the very bottom.

Caleb is in a peculiar situation as well. He is falling for Lucie but he does have loyalty to his parents. They themselves have had a hard time of it and I completely understood his love and protectiveness for them. In fact the author did not sugarcoat anybody's pain. And the pain of losing their life long savings was palpable. As well as Lucie's pain of being judged unfairly. Caleb balanced out the story well.

Throw in Lucie's adorable twins and the menagerie of pets they have picked up along the way, well Caleb can't help but feel at home with Lucie. Now what to do about a pesky woodpecker which also poses some serious problems?

I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author

An award-winning author, Tanya Agler moved often during her childhood and settled in Georgia where she writes sweet contemporary romance novels, which feature small towns, family and pets, and themes of second chances and hope. Her debut, The Sheriff’s Second Chance, is a January of 2020 Harlequin Heartwarming release. The sequel, A Ranger for the Twins, will be released in Oct. 2020. A graduate of the University of Georgia with degrees in journalism and law, she lives with her wonderful husband, their four children, and a lovable Basset, who really rules the roost. Represented by Dawn Dowdle and the Blue Ridge Literary Agency, she’s currently at work on the sequels to her debut. When she’s not writing, Tanya loves classic movies, walking, and a good cup of tea.

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a tote bag, $10 Amazon gift card, signed print copy of The Sheriff's Second Chance and a pen (US only)
Ends October 7, 2020

ENTER HERE

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Review: Nine by Rachelle Dekker

About:

Some secrets can't stay hidden

Zoe Johnson has spent most of her life living in the shadows, never drawing attention to herself, never investing in people or places. But when a wide-eyed, bedraggled teenager with no memory walks into the diner where Zoe works, everything changes.

Against her better judgment, Zoe, who has been trying to outrun her own painful memories of the past, finds herself attempting to help a girl who doesn't seem to have any past at all. With little warning, they must follow the only sure thing they know: a woman hundreds of miles away, will either save them . . . or be the last person to see them alive.

My Thoughts:

I read the companion book to this one, and was interested to see how it tied together. The short answer is trauma, but I won't give any more away since so much of this story is how characters overcame their past and present for a chance at perhaps a future.

This book focuses mostly on a third of the title number in characters. There is a mysterious young girl we first see fleeing for her life, though she has no memory as to exactly why. Then we meet Zoe, a kindly waitress who decides to help the girl. And finally, there is the FBI agent whose mission is that girl.

It was fascinating to go on the run with this unlikely trio as they try to figure out what exactly is going on and how to fix it, both in the bigger picture and in their own lives. And the question is, which would they rather sacrifice- what they hold close to or that bigger picture.

If you like action, intrigue, psychological suspense, and/or books with Christian elements, then this one is for you. It was so interesting to read a book that seemed to belong in a completely different genre than its companion, but that is how this world is- so many different things all connected together. Like the trio.

P.S. My favorite character was the FBI agent. I'm just throwing that out there.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

Reviewed by Jes

About the Author:

Rachelle Dekker is the Christy Award-winning author of The Choosing, The Calling, and The Returning in the Seer series. The oldest daughter of New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker and coauthor with him of The Girl behind the Red Rope, Rachelle was inspired early on to discover truth through the avenue of storytelling. She writes full-time from her home in Nashville, where she lives with her husband, Daniel, and their son, Jack. Connect with Rachelle at www.rachelledekker.com.

Review: Otherwise Engaged by Joanna Barker

About:

Constantly stifled by the rules of Society, spirited Rebecca Rowley enjoys finding ways to quietly or not so quietly rebel. But riding bareback and avoiding nosy neighbors are nothing compared to the thrilling secret she is keeping from her family.

When Rebecca's quick thinking saves the life of a young girl, she unwittingly attracts the attention of the child's dashing brother, Lieutenant Nicholas Avery. As that attention turns flirtatious, Rebecca is forced to tell him the truth: she is secretly engaged to the one man her family would never approve of. Fortunately, Lieutenant Avery is a navy man with no wish to marry, or so they both assume as they enter into a friendship. Rebecca hopes to change her family's mind about her betrothed, but the more she comes to know the handsome lieutenant, the more she wonders if she promised her hand too hastily.

After all her carefully laid plans are shattered during a family crisis, Rebecca must force her heart to decide. Should she stay true to the promise she made or fight for the future she's only just begun to imagine?

My Thoughts:

What a wonderful romantic story this one was, as my heart is still going pitter pat. What happens when true love sneaks up on you and as the title says you are otherwise engaged?

Rebecca Rowley is not necessarily a rebellious soul. She is just a woman who wants to forge her own way in life. She is looking forward to having her own home and can hardly wait to marry her fiancé. Unfortunately their is some family history that may prevent an easy transition for her and Edward.

While living at her brother's newly inherited home, Rebecca comes across their new neighbors in quite an unconventional way. After this mishap Rebecca and Lieutenant Nicholas Avery make a sort of peace agreement that turns into a friendship. Rebecca also wants to be a friend of sorts to Nicholas's much younger sister as well, who has lost so much in her young life.

I was able to envision all this story illustrated in words. I liked that the author showed how human all of these characters were. We get just enough of their back stories that we get to know them well and the story is not weighed down with too many details either.

However, something begins to grow between Rebecca and Nicholas, misconceptions are made and well...the heart wants what the heart wants. Nicholas is not a man who shows his feelings, but when he begins to pursue Rebecca in earnest, watch out. He is quite the romantic. I adored this story.

I received a copy of this novel courtesy of Covenant Communications through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

Monday, September 21, 2020

Review: Acceptable Risk by Lynette Eason

About:

For one journalist, the story of a lifetime is hitting too close to home

Sarah Denning is a military journalist with the Army in the Middle East when she is taken hostage. When former Army Ranger Gavin Black is asked by his old unit commander--Sarah's imposing father--to plan an extremely risky rescue, he reluctantly agrees and successfully executes it.

Back in the US, Sarah is livid when she's discharged on a false psychiatric evaluation and vows to return to the Army. Until she learns of her brother's suicide. Unable to believe her brother would do such a thing, she puts her plans on hold and enlists Gavin to help her discover the truth. What they uncover may be the biggest story of Sarah's career--if she can survive long enough to write it.

My Thoughts:

If you are looking for a book to keep you up at night and thinking about during the day- then look no farther than Acceptable Risk. It starts off strong and never lets up. I wondered how some of the characters even had the stamina to keep going. But their lives depended on it and to get to the bottom of the truth they needed to.

Sarah Denning is a military journalist and finds herself kidnapped in the Middle East. Not a very safe position to be in. However, as we get deeper in the story that ends up just being the tip of the iceberg of the evil that is coming her way.

This is a suspense, thriller, and a mystery all rolled up into one fantastic story. Eason also has time to show the complicated father/daughter relationship between Sarah and her father, her love interest and body guard Gavin, her friendships, and a grief that has rocked her world. Not too mention a very crazy and scary scenario of why so many people are harming themselves.

I think my very favorite part of the story was what Sarah finally realizes at the very end. You see, to me Sarah was not a really likable character. She was stubborn and rebellious and really took offense when there was none to be taken. Why? Well, that is the heart of this story.

The Elite Guardians was my favorite Eason stories, this one is my current. Looking forward to more.

I was provided a copy of this novel courtesy of Revell Publishing through Interviews & Reviews. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author:

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of Collateral Damage and Acceptable Risk, as well as Protecting Tanner Hollow and the Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master's degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband and two children. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Review, Guest Post, and Giveaway: Amaryllis Journey by Konnie Viner

About the Book

Book: Amaryllis Journey
Author: Konnie Viner
Genre: Christian Fiction/Romance
Release Date: July 23, 2020

You’re worthless, Shannon. This marriage is worthless. I deserve to be happy. We’re done!

Andrew’s cruel words have haunted Shannon for months . . . through the divorce, a move to a new town, a new job, new friends. And then she meets Max, who just might be the antidote she needs to recover completely. Until Andrew shows up again, ready to reconcile. And Shannon feels obligated to give him another chance.

As Andrew’s attention becomes more demanding and more deceptive, Shannon’s new friend, Rose, speaks truth and peace into her broken life. But Rose has her own secrets, and they’re about to catch up with her.

When it all comes crashing down, can either of them trust God enough to let Him showcase the perfect imperfections of their lives?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

My emotions were all over the place with this story. The main story was about Shannon a woman who has just gone through a devastating situation. Her husband of a decade tore her down emotionally, divorced her, as he went to start a family with another woman.

Shannon is going through a lot emotionally, physically, and spiritually. She moves to a new town, new job, and meets new friends who prove very helpful in holding her up. One particular woman, Rose, is the most helpful as she seems to have a very soft spot for helping young woman who find themselves in less than desirable situations. Rose's storyline is a mystery that keeps you wondering what is she hiding or hiding from.

Shannon has slowly moved on with her life and a possible new relationship when her ex shows back up wanting to make amends. This was her husband for many years, yet he also did irreparable damage to her emotionally that could have been fatal. Shannon has a long hard road to walk before she can see clearly to move on to God's perfect plan for her life.

I received a copy of the eBook from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Konnie Viner writes with the goal of helping others find hope in the midst of brokenness and disappointment. She is also the author of Rested Soul, Resilient Heart (2017). Konnie holds a BS in Education from the University of Kansas and an MS in Business Management from the University of Redlands, CA. She is a former secondary education teacher and is currently self-employed.

More from Konnie

Amaryllis Journey is my second book, but first novel. It was written to bring to life one woman’s struggle to move out of the pain and insecurity of marital betrayal and divorce, into the light of God’s grace. Shannon Enright’s new life is facilitated by a wise friend, Rose Daniels, who has been where she is and knows that what is broken is not useless and what is bare can bloom again.

Reeling from the pain and rejection of a nasty divorce, Shannon decides to start life over—in a new town, with a new job, new home, new friends. It isn’t easy, but things are finally starting to come together for her. Secrets from her marriage are still unfolding, but she grits her teeth and moves on. Looking for diversion, Shannon volunteers at a local florist shop and tearoom. There she finds more than she ever imagined.

Rose owns and operates the Amaryllis, a unique gift shop in Shannon’s new town. She repurposes broken household items, turning them into beautifully useful works of art. But Rose’s real purpose is to help others find beauty in the brokenness of life. She counsels young women like Shannon, showing them the quiet love of a faithful God and teaching them to trust His plan.

When Shannon’s ex returns, at first to sweet-talk and then to demand, it’s Rose’s counsel that keeps Shannon safe and sane. But Rose has been hiding her own dark and dangerous secrets, and her past is about to catch up with her.

When things come crashing down around them, will either woman find the strength to let God showcase the perfect imperfections of their lives?

——

I went through my own divorce ten years ago. I’ve experienced many of the same emotions and insecurities that Shannon does. I wrote her story so others can know that the disappointments and failures of your past don’t have to dictate what’s to come. When I chose to have Rose rescue cracked and broken pots and make them into something beautiful, it was with deliberate intent.

I love Rose’s passion for bringing beauty from the broken. Her repurposed containers carry the beauty of God’s creation (flowers) into the world. Our lives are like her art. We are vehicles for God’s grace. Our chips and cracks do not diminish His glory. They showcase His power and His redeeming love.

Publication of Amaryllis Journey was bittersweet for me because the character Rose was modeled after my mother who was my mentor. I did not tell Mom I was writing this book because “my” plan was to dedicate it to her. But God had other plans, and He called her home to Heaven suddenly before the book was completed. It is now dedicated to her memory.

Konnie

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 3

Moments, September 4

Inklings and notions, September 5

For Him and My Family, September 6

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 7

Texas Book-aholic, September 8

lakesidelivingsite, September 8

Ashley’s Bookshelf, September 9

deb’s Book Review, September 9

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, September 10

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

Artistic Nobody, September 12 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Sara Jane Jacobs, September 13

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 14

Splashes of Joy, September 15

Pause for Tales, September 16

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, September 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Konnie is giving away the grand prize package of a signed copy of the book 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/fffb/amaryllis-journey-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Review: The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox

About:

When Ivy Rose returns to her hometown to oversee her late grandmother's estate sale, she soon discovers that the woman left behind more than trinkets and photo frames--she provided a path to the truth behind Ivy's adoption. Shocked, Ivy seeks clues to her past, but a key piece to the mystery is missing.

Twenty-four years earlier, Harvey James finds an abandoned newborn who gives him a sense of human connection for the first time in his life. His desire to care for the baby runs up against the stark fact that he is homeless. When he becomes entwined with two people seeking to help him find his way, Harvey knows he must keep the baby a secret or risk losing the only person he's ever loved.

In this dual-timeline story from debut novelist Amanda Cox, the truth--both the search for it and the desire to keep it from others--takes center stage as Ivy and Harvey grapple with love, loss, and letting go.

My Thoughts:

This was a wonderful read and probably the most heartfelt story I have read in a long time. There were so many lessons that a lot of us could use on our own walks in life.

This was a story about family, enduring love, and most of all the grace of God. Sometimes we get so caught up in what we do not have, and completely miss the gifts we already do possess. Each member in this family have had their hurts. I was awed by how they came together, even though there was no blood relation between them.

Author Cox tackles a whole host of hurts from infertility, death of loved ones, suicide, all in a gentle storytelling way. What really impressed me was how all the pieces fit together for everyone to have a second chance. To be blessed once again after a time of mourning. My favorite part was the unfolding plan of this family and of the love that pursued Ivy even when she felt so unworthy.

There was some sadness, I got choked up about some of the plots, but even in them there was a purpose and the sadness was not waisted.

This is the first author Cox book I have read and she is an author that has won me over with her first book. You do not want to miss this story, it is one for the keeper shelf with memorable characters and storyline.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author:

Amanda Cox is a blogger and a curriculum developer for a national nonprofit youth leadership organization, but her first love is communicating through story. She holds a bachelor's degree in Bible and theology and a master's degree in professional counseling. Her studies and her interactions with hurting families over a decade have allowed her to create multidimensional characters that connect emotionally with readers. She lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with her husband and their three children.

Review, Guest Post, and Giveaway: Fire by Linda K. Rodante

About the Book

Book: Fire
Author: Linda K Rodante
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Release Date: July 28, 2020

If a violent gang re-organizes, an undercover cop could lose everything…including the woman he loves.

After a gang war three years earlier, the undercover cop known as Patriot was forced to move and take a new identity. When the gang re-organizes and threatens a friend, Patriot, now a firefighter, races home to help him.

Chloe Swearingen confines herself to the fast pace of the ER and away from interpersonal relationships—for a reason she keeps to herself. But when she helps save a gangster’s life, she’s thrown into a cauldron of relationships from which she can’t escape—and one from which she doesn’t want to…

Then a series of fires target people they love, and Chloe and Patriot will need the Lord’s wisdom to stay alive.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

Fire gives us a look at what could happen when a church goes under attack due to some of its members. Members such as a police officer and an ex-gang member.

This story starts out rather hotly and shows characters like Chloe who refuse to back down when there is danger. The author shows how well a church can work in the community, even when some of the church's policies are not favored. Even with those in the church.

Prayer was a big subject. Not preachy in anyway but they needed God's protection and help when they were going against people who did not care for anyone and only wanted to fuel their sense of revenge and feed their evil desires. I appreciated the Bible verses at the beginning of the chapters that helped move the story along.

Not only is the church family going through a trial, but the individuals (which we get to know a few of them) are also dealing with a lot of personal stuff. From infertility, guilty pasts, current temptations, and even attempted suicides. This was a very human look at a church doing God's work and fighting a real spiritual battle.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Linda K. Rodante is a Florida transplant now living in Tennessee. She’s married with two sons, a wonderful daughter-in-law and six grandchildren. She loves sweet tea, apple butter and both the mountains and the oceans.

Her work with crisis pregnancy centers and anti-trafficking groups gave her a heart for women struggling in today’s society, while still respecting the role God has given men.

She’s a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, Word Weavers International, and a past finalist of ACFW’s Genesis contest.

Linda writes Christian romantic suspense novels. Her books wrap sweet romance in real-life issues women face today then adds an edge of mystery and suspense. Her desire is to entertain and encourage others in their walk with God.

Linda’s two series, The Dangerous Series and The Spiritual Warfare Series, are each unique. Both are fun read in order, but every book is also a stand-alone.

More from Linda

FIRE, A Christian Romantic Suspense novel, is the third book in the Spiritual Warfare Series. While it’s also a stand-alone, it’s enhanced if you’ve read the others first. The inspiration for FIRE came while listening to “There’s Another in the Fire” by Hillsong UNITED. I love the words to that song. It says so much about who Jesus is and that he never leaves us.

Most Christians know the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, how King Nebuchadnezzar had them thrown into a fiery furnace because they wouldn’t worship him (Daniel 3.19-25). We know that Jesus was the fourth man in the fire, that he kept them from being burned or even smelling like smoke. But the Bible refers to fire in many ways—God is a consuming fire, the Holy Spirit is represented by fire, his ministers are called flames of fire, his Word is like a fire, and Satan will be thrown into the lake of fire. So much representation there.

The first book in the Spiritual Warfare Series, Warrior, introduced us to an ex-gang member, a gang leader, and a kickboxer who wanted more from God than she’d been experiencing, not realizing the depth of what she’d asked, and the danger she’d find herself in. In the second book, ROAR, her church persists in ministering to gangs even amid threats and kidnappings. Then three members are caught in the middle of a gang war, and it will take a miracle to get them out. FIRE takes place three years later when things have settled down. Ex-gang members are finding Jesus and learning new life skills, but then someone sets fire to the church and one of the ex-gang members is arrested for murder. When you’re doing everything right, and Satan attacks, where is God?

FIRE brings back familiar characters and introduces new ones who fall in love, and who learn about prayer, and perseverance, and God’s faithfulness in the middle of the battle.

Romance, intrigue and the power of prayer are woven together to create a story of action and faith.

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, September 2

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 3

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 5

Texas Book-aholic, September 6

Through the fire blogs, September 7

lakesidelivingsite, September 7

For Him and My Family, September 8

Robin’s Nest, September 8

Artistic Nobody, September 9 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 10

deb’s Book Review, September 10

Sara Jane Jacobs, September 11

Ashley’s Bookshelf, September 12

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

Blogging With Carol, September 14

Pause for Tales, September 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize package of the winner’s choice of format for the previous two books in series, Warrior and Roar, 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/fffa/fire-celebration-tour-giveaway

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Review and Giveaway: The Italian's Unexpected Heir by Jennifer Faye

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

The Italian's Unexpected Heir

(The Bartolini Legacy #3)

By Jennifer Faye

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 256 Pages

September 1st 2020 by Harlequin Romance

Her baby surprise proves…

…that one night will never be enough!

Reeling from the secrets that have torn his heritage apart, Enzo Bartolini is set on selling his family’s Tuscan vineyard and trying to forget the impulsive, dazzling night he and best friend Sylvie shared in Paris. While the sale moves forward, the thrilling awareness between him and Sylvie is harder to move past…especially when she upends Enzo’s world by revealing she’s carrying his baby!

(Affiliate links included.)

Go to Jennifer's Contact Page HERE and order your bookmark(s)!

My Thoughts:

I have been enjoying this saga of three siblings who are reeling from their parents sudden deaths. This is big brother Enzo's story and he is just as lost if not more than his sisters.

Taking his role as big brother seriously, Enzo is not sure of where to go or what to do as his younger sisters leave the family estate and vineyards to him to go off on their happily ever after's. Enzo is alone except for his friend and business partner Sylvia.

Both Enzo and Sylvia are still dealing with tragic circumstances and their feelings are all over the place. Sylvia is also very naïve in some things and she does not realize the heart pain her one decision will put her through. Their story shows the life changing circumstances that can happen when wise decisions are thrown out the window.

I did feel that Enzo was wallowing too much in self-pity and his decision making showed that. I liked that Sylvia was not pushy but she was already in love with Enzo and so showed that in her dealings with him. Both of them mature throughout the story as they face the consequences of their one night together and put the baby's needs first. This was an emotional read at times especially as the siblings deal with the pain of losing their parents and the secrets they kept. However, family triumphs.

I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

The Prince and the Wedding Planner

(The Bartolini Legacy #1)

By Jennifer Faye

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 256 Pages

March 1st 2020 by Harlequin Romance

When different worlds collide…

…sparks fly!

With her family name on the line, wedding planner Bianca Bartolini needs this royal wedding to go perfectly—she can’t afford distractions. Too bad the bride’s dashing brother has other plans! Duty-bound Crown Prince Leo has mere weeks to announce his own engagement, but none of the candidates measure up to Bianca. They’re the most unlikely match, but might that just make them perfect for one another?

(Affiliate links included.)

The CEO, the Puppy and Me

(The Bartolini Legacy #2)
By Jennifer Faye

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 256 Pages

June 1st 2020 by Harlequin Romance

Has the search for her past…

…guided her toward her future?

Gia Bartolini’s determinedly searching for her real father. First stop on the enchanting Italian island of Lapri? A mysterious abandoned mansion…where, rescuing a trapped puppy, she falls straight into the arms of alluring Riccardo Moretti! Her passion for the all-business CEO burns bright, leaving Gia with a question: In uncovering her true roots, has fate led her to true love?

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author

Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. Internationally published with books translated into nine languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards.

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and a copies of THE PRINCE AND THE WEDDING PLANNER and THE CEO, THE PUPPY AND ME, winner's choice of print (US only) or ebook

Open internationally

Ends September 16, 2020

ENTER HERE

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Review, Guest Post, and Giveaway: The Black Midnight by Kathleen Y'Barbo

About the Book

Book: The Black Midnight

Author: Kathleen Y’Barbo

Genre: Christian Historical Suspense

Release Date: August, 2020

Death Seems to Follow Harriet’s New Friend

Book 7 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History

Three years before Jack the Ripper began his murderous spree on the streets of London, women were dying in their beds as The Midnight Assassin terrorized the citizens of Austin, Texas. Now, with suspicion falling on Her Majesty’s family and Scotland Yard at a loss as to who the Ripper might be, Queen Victoria summons her great-granddaughter, Alice Anne von Wettin, a former Pinkerton agent who worked the unsolved Austin case, and orders her to discreetly form a team to look into the London matter.

The prospect of a second chance to work with Annie just might entice Isaiah Joplin out of his comfortable life as an Austin lawyer. If his theories are right, they’ll find the The Midnight Assassin and, by default, the Ripper. If they’re wrong, he and Annie are in a bigger mess than the one the feisty female left behind when she departed Austin under cover of darkness three years ago.

Can the unlikely pair find the truth of who is behind the murders before they are drawn into the killer’s deadly game? From Texas to London, the story navigates the fine line between truth and fiction as Annie and Isaiah ultimately find the hunters have become the hunted.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

What does Jack the Ripper have to do with a true American crime? Maybe something, maybe nothing. But The Black Midnight opens up and explores some connections that I never even heard about before.

This story takes place over two time lines- just four years apart- but the same main characters. A man and woman team in the Pinkerton Agency. Isaiah Joplin is a Texan through and through and he like the rest of the town does not like the fear that has arisen due to the Midnight Assassin's cold-blooded killing of innocent women. He teams up with British agent, Alice Anne von Wettin, Annie for short, to try to break this case wide open.

Not only do we have a very chilling murder mystery, but to balance it out we have a romance brewing that between these two agents might just not work out. Annie has some secrets of her own that she has been keeping from Isaiah, and her family.

I enjoyed both timelines, especially how the past set us up for the present one and the pace kept moving throughout. There was a lot of interesting facts sprinkled throughout and with these stories the author's notes in the back are priceless.

I think the whole True Colors series should be picked up as a drama series. They do a nice job of balancing the disturbing with the romance.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Bestselling author Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee of more than sixty novels with almost two million copies of her books in print in the US and abroad.

More from Kathleen Y’Barbo

I am a tenth generation Texan, but London has held a place in my heart for over ten years. You see, I have a son who has lived there for more than a decade. Thanks to him and his family of three—my granddaughter was born there on New Year’s Eve 2019—the city will always be special to me. There is absolutely nothing like walking those streets with a thousand years of history close enough to touch.

It was on a walk with my son through this great city that the stories of nineteenth century London came alive. With fog shrouding the rooftops of buildings that were hundreds of years old and our footsteps echoing on the cobblestones, I could imagine a time when lack of electricity and CCTV would make this place less than charming on a dark night. What reminded me of my favorite childhood movie, Mary Poppins, quickly became more reminiscent of Jack the Ripper. And then a story was born.

Only I just had half the story.

The other half came to me several years later when I stumbled across an article in Texas Monthly magazine about a serial killer who rampaged through Austin, Texas in 1884 and 1885 and was never caught. Some surmised this madman, called “The Midnight Assassin” by some, might have been Jack the Ripper honing his skills before he crossed the Atlantic to begin his famous crime spree in Great Britain.

But Austin? Ironically, my other two sons lived in Austin. So while part of my heart was in London, two more parts of that same heart resided in the Texas capital. I thought I knew Austin inside out. Between one of my sons getting not one but two degrees from the University of Texas (this Aggie grad is still proud of him in spite of what I jokingly call his burnt orange rebellion) and my other son living there and managing a restaurant at the time (and who just graduated from Texas A&M Galveston last month!), I had spent many years in the city. And yet I had never heard of the Midnight Assassin.

Research turned up a tale that sounds so close to fiction I had to write about it. Discovering the theory that the Austin killer might also be the Ripper just added to my interest—neither had been caught. And I like to write about Pinkerton detectives.

From there the story unfolded. If you’ve read any of my historical romances, you know that I love incorporating actual history into my stories. As you’ll see when you read The Black Midnight, this book is no exception. While I will continue writing the historical romances I love to bring to you, I will confess that writing this book has me itching to research another one like it.

What’s next in my foray into true crime novels? Maybe Houston. You see, I have a daughter who lives there…

In the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy reading The Black Midnight as much as I enjoyed writing it!