Litfuse Publicity Book Tours Presents: Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

 




Madison’s heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.
In the years since her twin brother’s drowning, Madison McKinley has struggled to put it behind her. Despite the support of her close-knit family and her gratifying job as a veterinarian in their riverside town, the loss still haunts her.
To find closure, Madison sets out to fulfill her brother’s dream of winning the town’s annual regatta. But first she has to learn to sail, and fast.
Beckett O’Reilly knows Madison is out of his league, but someone neglected to tell his heart. Now she needs his help—and he’ll give it, because he owes her far more than she’ll ever know.
Madison will do anything—even work with the infamous Beckett O’Reilly—to reach her goal. And as much as she’d like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying. As summer wanes, her feelings for him grow and a fledgling faith takes root in her heart.
But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their new love. Can their romance survive summer’s challenges? And will achieving her brother’s dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks?

Purchase a copy here.

Learn more at Denise’s website.

About The Author

Denise lives in Indiana with her husband Kevin and their three sons. In 1996, Denise began her first book, a Christian romance novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books often contain a strong romantic element, and her husband Kevin says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

My Review:

Come and get lost in Denise Hunter's new book. You'll experience the love of family, and the loss of one parents. Some aren't as fortunate to grown up in a close caring family, like the main character here, Beckett O'Reilly..his Mom left when he was young, and his Dad turned to drink. He did have a calming influence in his life with his Grandfather. Don't think he would have made it without him and his finding God through him.
Then there is the opposite side of the spectrum in Madison McKinley, her parents and siblings all rally around her. She does have her demons, she lost her twin, her brother at age 17, and has recurring nightmares about his death, which happened ten years ago.
Madison has decided the one way to stop those nightmare is to win the town's annual regatta. This plan puts both Beckett and Madison on the same path. They seem like they don't like each other. Beckett, because of his up bringing has very low self-esteem, and Madison feels she is unlovable with all of her heartache.
Will Madison be able to conquer her demon and begin to trust God? Will Beckett find peace and his own self-worth?
Follow this town and families on their journey to find peace and salvation.

I received this book through Litfuse Blogger Book Program, and was not required to give a positive review. 

Pump Your Book Virtual Tours Presents: Incidental Daughter by Val Stasik

 

ABOUT INCIDENTAL DAUGHTER

When successful publisher Liz Michaels’ marriage to blue blood, Addison Tiffin Payne, fails after the loss of their baby and his growing alcoholism, she pours all her creative energy and passion into her work and finds comfort in her friendship with the co-owners of her company as well as the appearances of the spirits of her Polish mother and grandmother, who never speak except in dreams she cannot remember. Only her feelings from those dreams linger.
When Liz’s ex-husband plans to stage her suicide by pushing her off the balcony of her high-rise home in order to collect on a life insurance policy, he topples to his death instead. When the police arrive, Liz, the potential victim, becomes the prime murder suspect. She meets Pittsburgh Police Detective Jim Shannon, who may threaten her freedom or possibly gain her love. Her life is further complicated by her former mother-in-law’s attempts to destroy her reputation and damage her career. Her swirling feelings are complicated by the simultaneous appearance of a talented, familiar-looking intern at her workplace. He turns out to be her half-brother, but he is unaware of their connection. Although Liz is finished with a past that included a botched meeting with her biological father, the past is not done with her, for the intern and Shannon link her to that past. The cause of her ex-husband’s death is determined and Shannon and his partner, Santello, arrest the person responsible for what led to his death.
Internal conflict is soon compounded by external threats created by her former mother-in-law as well as someone seeking revenge on Shannon and his fellow detective. Just as Shannon and Liz are getting better acquainted, he is gunned downed, but survives. When Liz is leaving Shannon’s hospital room, she passes a woman whom she doesn’t realize is her dead father’s wife. The woman, Eileen, is also Shannon’s sister and notices the resemblance to her dead husband. Eileen did not learn of the existence of her husband’s daughter until after his death. This encounter sets in motion a series of touchy revelations and family get-togethers. All seems to be going well until Payne’s grieving mother decides to make Liz pay for Payne’s death. Warned by the mother’s housekeeper, Detective Santello and another detective rush to Liz’s office. In the shootout, Payne’s mother is killed but not before killing Santello who took the bullet meant for Liz. Will Liz be destroyed by this vortex, or will she use the crisis to open the door to a second chance at love and family?

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE

 

ABOUT VAL STASIK

Val Stasik shares a home in eternally sunny Santa Fe, NM, with her aging mixed terrier, Sugar, who allows her to sleep in his queen-size bed as well as sharpen her culinary skills for his benefit. Stasik spent many years as a writing teacher, helping other writers find their voice and tell their stories, and is a consultant for the Northern Virginia Writing Project. INCIDENTAL DAUGHTER is Stasik’s debut novel.
Stasik studied drama and English at the University of Pittsburgh and then transferred to the University of Maryland, College Park, graduating with high honors and a B.S. in Secondary Education, Communication. The year she attended graduate school was filled with student protests, bomb threats, and military helicopters.
Stasik became an editorial assistant for THE PHARMACOLOGIST in Bethesda. She then moved to Harpers Ferry where she taught for five years and participated in the Old Opera House Theatre onstage and behind the scenes.
In Harrisburg, PA, she became a groom and mutuels clerk at Penn National Race Track and, later, a commercial lines underwriter for Pennsylvania National Mutual Casualty Insurance Company. Right before her son was born, Three Mile Island happened. So far, neither glows in the dark.
In Virginia, Stasik enjoyed the enriching experience of teaching writing and literature in the Loudoun County Public School system, instructed other teachers in assessing student writings, and helped develop various English curricula. She also participated in the Fauquier Community Theatre on and off stage. From 2002-2004, she developed a part-time hypnosis practice. She then retired to Santa Fe where she has been writing—a few film scripts that have been produced (Café Destiny, on the Web,  Spring 2013, www.cafe-destiny.com) and a couple of award-winning play scripts.
Stasik is currently a member of the New Mexico Book Association, the New Mexico Book Co-Op; Southwest Writers; the Independent Book Publishers Association; the Small Publishers’ Association of North America; the Small Publishers, Artists, and Writers Network; and Pennwriters.
Visit her website at www.ValerieStasik.com.

Connect & Socialize with Val!

TWITTER | FACEBOOK

 

My Review:

This story is a real page turner. Once you start, you will keep going until you have all the answers.
Liz Michael's grew up not knowing her real Dad. She had a step-father, but he just tolerated her. Her Mother told her about her Dad, when she was nineteen, and the next day her Mother committed suicide.
Now that she has the information, she looks for her Dad, but only meets him once. You will wonder if either of them has given the other a chance.
When Liz's Ex-Husband is found dead, she goes under investigation. One of the Detectives handling the case is Jim Shannon, and we find out what a small world we live in.
We ride a boat load of emotions throughout the book, there is more than one murder, and a plot of another. There are family members that are not comfortable with maybe a new sister. If Jim can get Liz to look at him, can they have a relationship, or is there just to much baggage?
You will delight in some of the situations here, and want to cry in others. All in all a really good read, and a fast one at that.

I received this book through Pump Your Book Virtual Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.

I Am A Reader, Not A Writer Presents: Rift Healer Book Blast & Giveaway

Tour Schedule

 

Rift Healer

Rift Healer is the first installment of the 'Forest Magic' series, a Young Adult Fantasy/Romance set in Central and Western Massachusetts. After a minor earthquake, the enchanted forest in Bidwell, MA, is infested with monster-spewing rifts. Gisele Westerfield's great nephew, the gifted Micah, and his distant cousin, Selena, arrive to assist. Together with Gisele's summer students, twins Haley and Lacey, they will try to heal the magical forest. Much to the consternation of the beautiful Selena, Micah identifies Haley as The One whom he'll share his future. But after witnessing a terrifying display of Micah's Gift, Haley cools to his advances and unexpectedly discovers her own Gift-- she can heal the earth. Monsters, mayhem, and teenage angst follow the small group as they confront evil in the forest and a dangerous prediction that 'one will fall'. Will they heal the rifts in time? Can they save the unicorns? And is Haley really destined to be with Micah?

Amazon

 

Author Diane M. Haynes

Diane has lived in Massachusetts all her life where early on, her artistic talents were fostered, though her skills as an "excellent report writer" were often noted in previous employment. On her brother Rick's birthday, November 16, 2004, seven months after his death, she woke from an amazing dream which would not fade. She outlined the dream, made a few quick notes and days later produced a 12 page short story. After deciding her story was interesting but incomplete, she began writing her first novel, using her dream as its climax. She now believes the dream to be a 'Spirit Gift,' sent by her brother. Diane continues to reside in Central MA with her husband and a very naughty Basset Hound named Basil and his new adopted sister-Basset, Ruby, both of whom cleverly wreak havoc on the Haynes' formerly well-ordered lives. She spends her time writing, reading books about writing, talking about writing, painting with watercolors, antiqueing and attempting to train a very reluctant Basil and a willing, but highly comedic Ruby.

Website * Facebook * Twitter

  Book Blast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 7/4/13  a Rafflecopter giveaway

TLC Book Tours Presents: The Remarkable Ronald Reagan: Cowboy and Commander in Chief by Susan Allen

About The Remarkable Ronald Reagan

• Age Range: 5 – 8 years
• Hardcover: 36 pages
• Publisher: Regnery Kids (June 18, 2013)
Ronald Reagan was a natural leader, well-remembered not just for his political leadership, but also for his warmth, kindness, dignity, and optimism. There’s a lot kids can learn from Reagan, about our country and about being good leaders and good people. The Remarkable Ronald Reagan: Cowboy and Commander in Chief is a fun, colorful look at his life, from his humble beginnings as the son of a shoe salesman, to his years as a Hollywood actor, his service in WWII, his life as a rancher, and finally the culmination of his political career in the Oval Office. Ronald Reagan is an ideal role model, not only as a leader and former president, but also as a shining example of self-sacrifice and determination. The Remarkable Ronald Reagan is a treat for the entire family.

About Susan Allen

Susan Allen served as First Lady of Virginia when her husband, George Allen, was elected as the Commonwealth’s 67^thGovernor. In that role, she worked on many initiatives including tourism, breast cancer awareness, and children’s issues.
Accompanying her father-in-law, famed NFL head coach and Chairman of The President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Susan met Ronald Reagan in 1987 in the Oval Office. Reagan was an Allen family friend and the one who inspired her husband to run for office. George led Young Virginians for Reagan in 1976 and currently serves on the Board for Governors for the Reagan Ranch.
Susan Allen resides in Mt. Vernon, VA, with her husband and is an avid fan of reading, history, and the outdoors. The Allens have two daughters, Tyler and Brooke, and one son, Forrest.

 

My Review:

I gathered our 6 and 8 year old boys, and they sat and listened and asked questions as we read this book. Think the beautiful illustrations at first drew them in. Both boys are active in sports and were delighted to know that a President played football, just like them.
Both had heard of President Reagan, but didn't know much about him. Now they live on a farm, but they were amazed that the President lived on a Ranch. Wow...and even rode horses. When they listened to all that this man had accomplished in his life time, they decided that maybe they would like to become President someday...they liked the looks of that big White House!
When we went through the highlights in the back of the book they wanted to know how close he lived to where their Aunt lives in Illinois. We looked it up on the map and it wasn't to far.
They were surprised that the President had been shot while in office, and were so glad he lived. We talked about some bad men that want to take away what is good.
This is a great educational book for Children, it kept their attention right to the end, and made for some interesting side research. I highly recommend this as a keeper.

I received this book through TLC Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.

Kregel Publishing Presents: Red Dawn Rising by Sue Duffy

Twenty-seven-year-old Cass Rodino is a hardworking, dedicated set designer on Broadway. But, like the actors who take the stage every night, she is masking a different reality. Her secrets lie deep within past wounds too severe to expose to anyone.

Evgeny Kozlov has secrets of his own. A former KGB assassin, he is trying to outrun the underground revolution he once served. Trying to right his wrongs, he's in a race against time and against a former colleague, Ivan, who has sinister plans to bring down the United States, including an assassination attempt on famed pianist Liesl Bower.

As Cass and Evgeny separately set out to save Liesl from an impending doom, both are hurled into a fierce CIA/FBI dragnet, not knowing that their formidable opponent--a most unlikely predator--is already closing in on them.

Book 2 of the Red Returning Trilogy, Red Dawn Rising mixes suspense, action, and romance in a tale of personal tragedy and triumph that will keep readers pivoting between the evil desires of world powers and the redeeming powers of personal faith, life, and love.

After graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in journalism, Sue Duffy worked as an advertising copywriter for major agencies in Atlanta and Miami for  twelve years. Later, she was a senior writer at Columbia Business Monthly in Columbia, South Carolina, for nine years; and editor of Lake Murray Columbia, the lifestyle magazine of South Carolina's largest newspaper, The State, for eight years. She also is former editor of Reach Out, Columbia, a monthly Christian magazine.

Sue is the author of three published books: Mortals Wounds, Fatal Loyalty, and The Sound of Red Returning (Book 1 in the Red Returning Trilogy). Her fourth novel, Red Dawn Rising, releases in Spring 2013, and the fifth in 2014. She has contributed articles to such Christian publications as Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Moody magazine,  The Presbyterian Journal, Sunday Digest, The Christian Reader, and The PCA Messenger. Her work is also featured in  Stories for a Woman's Heart (Multnomah).

Sue's husband, Mike, runs the family real estate business, Resource Properties. They have three children and six grandchildren. Sue also is a pianist, artist, boater, and avid traveler.

My Review:

This is the second book in this series of Red Returning, that I have read. It is just as good at the first one, and not one to be missed.
We have return visits and more trials for some of the characters from the first book "The Sound of Red Returning". We also meet some new faces, and are again involved with people who are trying to destroy the USA.
Cass Rodino is carrying unnecessary guilt, she also doesn't see what is right under her nose. Somehow she becomes involved in trying to save Both Liesl Bower, and this Country. We do learn some surprising facts, and some that will really surprise you, and you don't see coming.
Be ready for a lot of action, and what we don't see right in front of us, they look and act like the rest of us, but they are not what they appear. Do you think you really know your next door neighbor? Better yet how about your father or mother.
Don't miss this book that will really make you think, it is all possible.

I received this book through Kregel Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.

Deadly Devotion (Port Aster Secrets) by Sandra Orchard

 


Research scientist Kate Adams and her colleague Daisy are on the brink of a breakthrough for treating depression with herbal medicine when Daisy suddenly dies. Kate knows that if it hadn’t been for Daisy’s mentorship, she wouldn’t have the job she loves or the faith she clings to. So when police rule Daisy’s death a suicide, Kate is determined to unearth the truth.
Former FBI agent Tom Parker finds it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Though an old buddy gives him a job as a detective on the local police force, not everyone approves. Tom’s just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation of her friend’s death, he knows his job is at stake. In fact, despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate looks a bit suspicious herself.
As evidence mounts, a web of intrigue is woven around the sleepy town of Port Aster. Can Kate uncover the truth? Or will Tom stand in her way?

About this author

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I live in rural Ontario with my real-life hero husband, college-age children, and a young husky with a fetish for rubber boots and remote controls.

Although I taught high school math before starting my family, my childhood dream of becoming a writer never strayed far from my thoughts. I dabbled in writing how-to articles and book reviews, but for many years, needlecrafts, painting, and renovating a century-old farmhouse satisfied my creative appetite.

Then I discovered the world of inspirational fiction, and my writing took on new direction. On my “graduation day” as a home-educator (i.e. my youngest daughter’s first day of college), I learned that Love Inspired wanted to publish Deep Cover. And so my Undercover Cops series and new career has begun.

You can read more about my novels, my writing journey, and those of others who are daring to reach for their dreams at www.SandraOrchard.com

http://www.Facebook.com/SandraOrchard

Deadly Devotion

Interested in reading Deadly Devotion? Click here for an excerpt
Reading Group Guide
Deleted Scenes
On Location in and around Port Aster
Editor’s Cut with Commentary
Kate’s Calendula Tea Recipe
Character Interviews:
Kate Adams
Tom Parker
Looking for a copy of Deadly Devotion? Click Here to Learn More

My Review: 

This is a great "who done it" story. You are sure you know who did it, and then...no not that one. Right to the very end of the book before you are sure, and then surprised.
Kate Adams loved Daisy Leacock, like a daughter. Daisy had taken her under her wing, and they were very close, and co-research scientists. Then Daisy dies, and the police rule it a suicide. Kate knows different, and challenges the police.
Tom Parker is new at his Detective job, not new at police work...he came from Canada, and is now home. He has just left his job at the FBI. He has also lost a dear friend who trusted the wrong woman, and he has decided he will never do that.
You will love the interaction between Kate and Tom's father Keith. He is fully on her side, and is there for her. Often against Tom's wishes. You have to wonder who did this crime, and are the Police involved?
My main problem is that there are a lot of unanswered questions. Ah...there is a second book, and a teaser included in this one. Enjoy this fast pace murder mystery.

I received this book through Revell's Book Blogger Tours, and was not required to give a positive review. 

Litfuse Publicity Book Tours Presents: The House that Love Built by Beth Wiseman

Brooke has only loved one man, her late husband. Owen’s rebuilding after a painful divorce. Can a mysterious house bring them together for a second chance at love?
In the charming town of Smithville, Texas, Brooke Holloway is raising two young children on her own, supporting them by running the family hardware store. The last thing on her mind is falling in love. But she’s intrigued when a stranger moves to town and buys the old Hadley mansion. She’s always heard that house holds a secret—maybe even a treasure—and she can’t wait to see inside. When she meets the new owner and they spend time together, she can’t deny the attraction. Could God be giving her another chance at happiness? Or is she betraying her late husband’s memory by even thinking that way?
Owen Saunders bought the Hadley place to spite his cheating ex-wife. She’d always wanted to restore an old house in Smithville. Now he’s going to do it without her. But if anything needs restoration, it is Owen’s heart. Then he meets Brooke and her kids and finds himself tempted by love. Can he bring himself to trust a woman again?
Throw an eccentric uncle into the mix, along with the town’s teenage troublemaker, and even a finicky cat—and one thing becomes clear: God is bringing them all together for a reason.


Purchase a copy here.


About The Author

Beth is a Carol Award Winner, Inspirational Readers Choice Winner, INSPY Winner, and the best-selling author of the Daughters of the Promise series and the Land of Canaan series. All of her books have held spots on the ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association) bestseller list and the CBA (Christian Book Association) bestseller list. She grew up in Houston, Texas and now resides in a small town west of Houston with a population of around 300. She lives with her husband, two dogs, two cats, two pot bellied pigs, two chickens and a pygmy goat. Her two grown sons also live in Texas. Beth has been writing in some capacity for most of her life. She's a former award-winning journalist with eleven honors, including 'First Place News Writing' for The Texas Press Association. However, writing love stories with a spiritual message is where her heart is. When Beth isn't writing (which is seldom these days) she enjoys traveling, cooking, fishing, reading, or just settling in for a good movie. Her best times are spent with family and friends!

 BethWiseman.com

My Review:




Once you have finished this book the title becomes totally clear to you.
Brooke Holloway, has lost the love of her life, her husband. She is raising two children, who are her salvation. She did state, that if it weren't for them, she would have thrown in the towel.
When Owen Saunders, purchases the old Hadley mansion. His path crosses with Brook, as she owns the local hardware store, and he has a lot of work to do in restoring his new house. Owen is fighting his demons, he has lost his wife, Virginia, but to another man not death. He needs to forgive his ex, but can't find his way to do so.
Brooke, is also struggling with forgiveness, her father left her family when she was a young child. He now wants back in her life, and Brook is determined not let him.
There are a few other character in this story that will warm your heart, and some you will despise for the way they have treated a child. Throughout all, we find God seems to be in control of their lives, and all they have to do is listen.
Some parts made me want to cry, they were so sweet. This is not a book to be missed, and the important word is "Family". I loved it, and wish I could continue on in their lives. There are really some interesting and very surprising things that happen here. Don't miss this!

I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Group, and was not required to give a positive review.