Saints and Sailors (The Dunbridge Chronicles, #4) by Pam Rhodes

Three groups of people come together for a more-or-less godly cruise around the British Isles: to Lindisfarne, the Loch Ness Monster Museum, Iona and Mull, Dublin and the Scilly Isles. There are familiar faces from St Stephens, Dunbridge; some new folk from Neil's new parish in Derbyshire; and the slightly long-suffering crew, not least her skipper.

About The Author

Pam Rhodes cut her teeth in news journalism, firstly as Programme Organiser on Thames Television's network documentary series, THIS WEEK, then as the anchor for Anglia Television live daily evening news programme for seven years.  She's featured on a very wide range of television and radio programmes ever since, but since 1987, has been best known as the familiar face of BBC Television's SONGS OF PRAISE.  In that time she has interviewed people ranging from The Pope to Dolly Parton, earning herself a reputation as a highly professional and empathetic interviewer, especially when people are speaking about sensitive, perhaps traumatic experiences. Also, SONGS OF PRAISE is the perfect programme for a presenter who truly loves hymns, old and new.  If you mention almost any hymn you can think of to Pam, she's likely to come back with the full story of who wrote it and why, as well as giving you renditions of a couple of tunes to which it can be sung - as you'd know if you've ever dipped into any of her weekly radio programmes WITH HEARTS AND HYMNS which have featured on Premier Christian Radio for a decade!

She is married to Richard Crow and lives with the family at a two-acre small holding in Bedfordshire.  It is there that they run BIGGLESWADE CAT LODGE which not only takes in cats while their owners are on holiday, but has also become known for boarding RSPCA animals who need loving care whilst new homes are found for them.  So Pam is likely to be cleaning out cat pens most days, or escaping for a potter in the garden when she's not happily tied to the computer by her first love of writing!  She also enjoys dancing so is often out ballroom, line or tap dancing - or at modern jive evenings similar to the one at which she met her husband Richard some years ago!  


My Review

There are three other books in this series, but this is the first that I have read. It is interesting in that you are taking a cruise with Neil’s old parish on the cruise together, they begin the journey as strangers, but become friends.
I love the descriptions of the places we traveled and some historical information, it was so interesting. I loved the humor presented here, and would have loved to be on this cruise, or maybe a fly on the wall.
With a Christian cruise things should be smooth sailing with like minds aboard, right! I loved how the ladies came to the aid of one of their own when her husband was abusing her with snide remarks, and they tell her all of her confidence has been knocked out of her by her husband, enjoyed how they helped her.
We visit beautifully described places and learn a lot about the history of the area, I love history and this about places I’ve never heard of and oh so interesting.
Sign me up for the next one of these cruises, I really want to go, and they really do exist!
I received this book through Kregel Blogger Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.

Book Blast Mind Matters by Tanya J. Miller

#newrelease #inspirational #selfhelp #motivational @amreading

Mind Matters: Get Out Of Your Head, and Jump Into Life

by Tanya J. Miller

This book blast will run February 29, 2016

Do you ever get lost in the maze of your mind? When your thoughts start spiraling in a continuous loop—positive or negative—it can seem impossible to consider a different idea or even catch your breath. If the way you think greatly influences the way you live, then it’s important to know how to manage your thoughts and channel their power to improve your life, rather than hinder it. Mind Matters explores practical ways you can bring balance to your thought life, from replacing anxious thoughts with hopeful ones to curbing unnecessary thinking altogether. It also points out traps that keep you stuck, like “clearing your mind” by airing your thoughts to anyone that will listen via Facebook or the occasional tantrum and outburst. As you learn the art of controlling your thoughts, you will be able to focus on what you can do in the present to experience the life you want in the future. Whether you struggle with anxious thoughts or just need a few tips to better manage your mind, this easy-to-read guide provides you with simple instructions you can immediately put into practice.

Tanya J. Miller is a certified life coach with over eighteen years’ experience working with youth, young adults, and women throughout the community and in ministry to pursue purpose, passion and destiny. Tanya holds a BBA in finance and business management from Northwood University and an MBA from Regent University and is also certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and Scrum Master. Her lifelong passion for writing eventually led her to start the blog Talking with Tanya in 2005. Mind Matters is her debut book. Tanya is married and currently lives in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

Leap Into Books Giveaway Hop

I'm celebrating the extra day in February with a giveaway hop! I love books, and am often reading two at a time, sometimes three! I would love to know what book you are looking forward to reading, and so my giveaway is an $10 Amazon Gift Card. Just fill out the attached Rafflecopter! Good Luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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Into the Dark (First Force Book 3) by Cindy McDonald

Four years ago Dr. Rayne Lee lost her husband and her four-year old daughter, Sierra, to a group of hostile guerrillas in the Amazonian Valley of Peru. It had taken every bit of her constitution to rebuild her life and to join her uncle's international security team, First Force, as the team's head medic. She still desperately missed her husband and her daughter, but all in all everything was back on track--until the phone calls started.

A young girl was calling claiming to be Sierra. The tiny trembling voice said that the guerrillas were holding her captive, and there was only one way for them to be reunited--Rayne must travel to Peru and give them something that she has. Moreover, they had another stipulation: She must come alone.

Suddenly the ghosts from Rayne's past are chasing her down a dark road.

What could they possibly want from her?
Could she return to the place where her family was
murdered and she was brutalized for seven horrid
months?
Was it really Sierra calling?

Rayne knew that she had to take the risk--she had to find out! 


About The Author
 
 

 

For twenty-six years Cindy’s life whirled around a song and a dance. She was a professional dancer/choreographer for most of her adult life and never gave much thought to a writing career until 2005. She often notes: Don’t ask me what happened, but suddenly I felt drawn to my computer to write about things that I have experienced with my husband’s Thoroughbreds and happenings at the racetrack—she muses: they are greatly exaggerated upon of course—I’ve never been murdered. Viola! Cindy’s first book series, Unbridled, was born. Currently there are five books in the series.

Cindy is a huge fan of romantic suspense series’, especially with a military ops theme. Although she isn’t one to make New Year’s resolutions, on New Year’s Day 2013 she made a commitment to write one. At this time, there are three books in her black ops series, First Force: Into the Crossfire, To the Breaking Pointe and Into the Dark. Book #4, To the Brink, is scheduled to release in September of 2016.

People are always asking Cindy: Do you miss dance? With a bitter sweet smile on her lips she tells them: Sometimes I do. I miss my students. I miss choreographing musicals, but I love writing my books, and I love sharing them with my readers.

Cindy resides on her forty-five acre Thoroughbred farm with her husband, Bill, and her Cocker Spaniel, Allister, near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

My Review

Into the dark really explains Dr. Rayne’s life up to this point, she has lost her husband, a humanitarian doctor, and her only child to the drug cartel in Peru.
Her Uncle is a member of international security team that rescued her, and she is now living in the family mansion. Another member of the team has an apartment here also, Jack and his preconscious kindergartener daughter, just what is helping pull Rayne back, and make a purpose for her life.
Can you imagine how you would feel when you received a call from your dead child? She saw her daughter killed, but did she miss something, she has to go back to Peru and rescue her. Of course, Jack is having feeling for Rayne and doesn’t want her to go, but then the team all gets on board.
Will Rayne find her beloved daughter; will she even get out alive? This book has it all, including corruption in our own Government, and we find out who is behind a lot of ugly dealings.
There is a lot of sex in this book, which is totally unnecessary, in my opinion; the book has a lot going for it, and a great believable story line. Pick this one up and you won’t be able to put it down.
I received this book through Pump Up Your Book Virtual Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.

A Sweet Misfortune (Virtues and Vices of the Old West #2) by Maggie Brendan

Rachel Matthews isn't one to rely on others to take care of her. Destitute and alone, she still wants to make her own way and her own money--even if she's forced into the life of a dance hall girl. Horrified by her circumstances, Rachel's brother sends a friend--the widely admired cattle baron John McIntyre--to rescue her, then sets off to earn enough money to buy back the family ranch. But when months pass without her brother's return, Rachel isn't sure she can take one more day in John McIntyre's home--especially once she discovers that he's the one who holds the deed to her family's ranch.

Sparks fly between this spunky, independent heroine and the ruggedly handsome hero as they navigate the snarled terrain of pride, greed, faith, and love in Maggie Brendan's delightful series set in the Old West.


About The Author

Maggie Brendan is a CBA bestselling author, and has sold over 300,000 books of historical romance. She is a winner of 2014 Book Buyers Best/ OCC/RWA -inspirational, 2013 Laurel Wreath Award, was a 2013 finalist for the Published Maggie Award of Excellence, a 2014 and 2013 finalist for the Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award, a 2012 finalist for Inspirational Reader’s Choice award and a recipient of the 2004 ACW Persistence Award in Atlanta. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), The Author’s Guild, Romance Writers of America (RWA), Faith, Hope and Love, and Georgia Romance Writers. Maggie’s series are Heart of the West and The Blue Willow Brides and Virtues and Vices of the Old West. The Trouble with Patience, book one in a new series, of Virtues and Vices of the Old West will release in February, 2015.  You can follow Maggie on her website www.MaggieBrendan.com, her blog www.SouthernBelleWriter.blogspot.com,Twitter @MaggieBrendan and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MaggieBrendan?




My Review

I do have to state that I really enjoy Maggie Brendan’s books, and look forward to each one, and this one was no exception.
In this day can you picture a friend of your brothers going into where you work and throwing you over his shoulder and carrying you away to his home? No, absolutely not, but this is back in the 1860’s, and Miss Rachael is working at a place that does not have a good reputation, she is a dancer, but we would all make the assumption that she is a “soiled dove”.
The friend John, owns the title to her parents ranch, and she is not so happy to see the enemy, as she feels about him, of course he only paid the taxes, but means nothing to her. Her brother, Preston, still has a chance to redeem the ranch when he returns from the gold fields.
You are going to love Estelle, the Grandmother, and Annabelle the housekeeper and cook, and how they embrace Rachael, I wanted to move in with them.
When we let God be in charge a lot of doors open and more people are drawn in and saved by your actions, and that is how I felt while reading this book, it was amazing, and you kept finding more, even in adversity.
This is a sad, in some ways, but refreshing and sweet read, and I’m ready for the next book in this series.
I received this book through the Revell Reads Blogger Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
 

More Than Friendship by Amy Lillard

Love is worth every challenge.
Woven deeply into the Amish community of Wells Landing, Oklahoma, a women’s quilting circle is a place to share everything from recipes to hopes and dreams, especially when love is in the air...

The youngest member of the quilting circle, Clara Rose Yutzy has her whole life ahead of her. And it’s just beginning, with plans for a wedding to her longtime beau, Thomas Lapp. Everything is falling into place, which is why Clara Rose resolutely ignores her newly warm feelings for her best friend, Obidiah Brennaman. There’s never been a hint of romance between them, and no reason to pay attention to such nonsense now...

Steady, sturdy Obie feels differently. He’s never thought too hard about his future, but the news that Clara Rose is about to be married is strangely unsettling. Convincing Clara Rose to take another look at their friendship may not be easy, but Obie is certain God intends for them to be together. He’ll do whatever he must to make Clara Rose see how much he loves her, and with the Lord’s help, before it’s too late.

Amazon


About The Author

Amy Lillard is a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I’ve retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I’m from Texas. (?)  Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son–a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, shoes, and romance novels–not necessarily in that order. I’m a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I’m shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I  believe that God is love. I guess that’s why I adore romances.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I’m a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture.  I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that’s me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I’ll get to it or I won’t, either way I’m good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I’m alone on this last one, and again, I’m good with it.)
Favorite movies–(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven’t seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn’s and Audrey’s.

Amy's Blog Spot


My Review

Amy Lillard has brought us back to Wells Landing, Oklahoma and there is soon to be a wedding of Clara Rose Yutzy and Thomas Lapp. You will feel the magic in the air, and see the hopes and dreams of this young couple.
All of a sudden at the quilting circle meeting the unthinkable happens when a friend shows up and upsets the Clara Rose, by stating that they have a bad feeling about her marrying Thomas. Can you imagine the thoughts that would go through your mind? Is he seeing someone else, hanging out in place he shouldn’t, all kinds of thoughts.
You will need to pick this one up to find out what this is all about and if she will find out in time what is wrong, being on cloud nine and then crashing to the floor, and for what?
This is one really quick read, and you won’t want to miss this one!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review 

A Girl's Guide to Moving On (New Beginnings #2) by Debbie Macomber

In this powerful and uplifting novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber, a mother and her daughter-in-law bravely leave their troubled marriages and face the challenge of starting over. Leaning on each other, Nichole and Leanne discover that their inner strength and capacity for love are greater than they ever imagined.

When Nichole discovers that her husband, Jake, has been unfaithful, the illusion of her perfect life is indelibly shattered. While juggling her young son, a new job, and volunteer work, Nichole meets Rocco, who is the opposite of Jake in nearly every way. Though blunt-spoken and rough around the edges, Rocco proves to be a dedicated father and thoughtful friend. But just as their relationship begins to blossom, Jake wagers everything on winning Nichole back—including their son Owen’s happiness. Somehow, Nichole must find the courage to defy her fears and follow her heart, with far-reaching consequences for them all.

Leanne has quietly ignored her husband’s cheating for decades, but is jolted into action by the echo of Nichole’s all-too-familiar crisis. While volunteering as a teacher of English as a second language, Leanne meets Nikolai, a charming, talented baker from Ukraine. Resolved to avoid the heartache and complications of romantic entanglements, Leanne nonetheless finds it difficult to resist Nikolai’s effusive overtures—until an unexpected tragedy tests the very fabric of her commitments.

An inspiring novel of friendship, reinvention, and hope, A Girl’s Guide to Moving On affirms the ability of every woman to forge a new path, believe in love, and fearlessly find happiness.


About The Author

Debbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 770 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Ten of these novels hit the number one spot.

In 2015, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publications included Last One Home (March), Silver Linings (August) and Dashing Through The Snow (October) and paperback editions of Blossom Street Brides (March), Love Letters (July), and her Christmas novel, Mr. Miracle (October). In addition to fiction Macomber has also published two bestselling cookbooks; numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.

http://www.debbiemacomber.com/

Amazon

My Review

Once again Debbie Macomber has written a wonderful and up lifting novel, that quickly became a page-turner.
As I began reading this book, I noticed that it was a stand alone, but was having flash backs to felling like I’ve read parts before, and other parts seemed so new. Finally I realized that I had been introduced to some of these characters before in “Last One Home”, and was so glad to get updates in all of their lives.
These women, whom are Mother-in-law and Daughter-in-law, are very close, and the men in their lives have followed the same path. Nichole has gotten out after five years of marriage, while Leanne was in hers for almost 35 years.
You will delight when you meet the new men in these women’s lives and feel how much they deserve to be cherished. Will they be able to maintain these new relationships considering their past?
Journey along as these ladies get back on their feet and become themselves once again.
I received this book through Net Galley and Ballentine Books and was not required to give a positive review.

Messed Up Men of the Bible by Tina Samples Dave Samples

From schlubby sitcom heroes to mommy blogs to online articles, there is a broad cultural perception that men constantly mess up and women must fight an uphill battle to fix them. Men are a burden, constant works-in-progress, pushed toward perfection but always falling short. This book asks a revolutionary question: What if these messed-up men are actually a mighty tool for God?

Tina and Dave Samples remind us that the Bible is filled with a cast of messed-up men--men who struggled and fell, and yet were used by God to accomplish His purposes. In fact, God has consistently chosen imperfect "clay pots" in which to place His light.

David was a poor father. Peter had problems with integrity. Moses had anger issues, Gideon struggled with fear, and Elijah suffered from depression--the list goes on. "Messed Up Men of the Bible" offers encounters with these ancient men who faced the same emotions and questions that contemporary men face, in order to reveal fresh spiritual insights and hope for modern relationships. Through personal stories, practical advice, and useful exercises, Tina and Dave provide encouragement and hope for women dealing with the messed-up men in their own lives. 

Amazon

About The Authors

Dave Samples

Dave is a pastor, teacher, author, and church planter. He is a native Texan who resides in Granbury, Texas and pastors at Tolar Baptist Church in Tolar, Texas. Dave has held numerous denominational leadership positions and has spoken for a variety of organizations including the Gospel Music Association in Estes Park, CO.
Dave has a Master of Divinity Degree with Biblical Languages from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas and a Bachelor’s Degree from Union University, Jackson, Tennessee.

Dave has served as a chaplain in the US Navy, as well as in local fire and police departments. In 2008, he was nominated as Windsor, Colorado's Person of the Year in recognition of his efforts to provide disaster relief following a devastating tornado.

Dave and Tina have two sons, Jaren and Zach, and one granddaughter, Abigail.

You can find David online at www.davesamples.blogspot.com, or link with him via Facebook or Twitter (davesamples).

Tina Samples

Tina is an award-winning author, speaker, worship leader, and registered Music Therapist. She lives in Tolar, Texas with her husband David, the lead pastor of Tolar Baptist Church. Together, they have two gifted sons, Jaren and Zach. Her book Wounded Women of the Bible: Finding Hope When Life Hurts, received the 2014 Golden Scroll Award for nonfiction book of the year.

Tina’s publishing credits also include It's a God Thing: Stories To Help You Experience The Heart of God, Guideposts; Extraordinary Answers to Prayer: In Times of Change and Unexpected Answers; Angels, Miracles, and Heavenly Encounters: Real Life Stories of Supernatural Events; and The One Year Life Verse Devotional. She has also contributed to The Secret Place devotional magazine, as well as Quiet Hour magazine.


Website - www.tinasamples.com
Twitter - @tinasamples

My Review 

 The title alone made me choose this book to review, I knew it had to be a keeper of a book, and was not in the least disappointed. As stated, the book was written about men but for woman, and it is well presented.
The book is co-authored by a husband and wife, Pastor David Samples and his wife Tina, and they do an excellent job. The book is geared to women who share their lives with messed up men, and the authors hope that this will inspire women to be kinder and gentler to their men, and live their faith.
I could understand how Judas was really messed up, what I read in this book made me think of him very differently, yes he played a part, but he was a “Me” person all along, and Jesus forgave him. Others, yes I realized they had messed up, but they came back and to be Godly men.
I loved how the opinions of the authors were different, but yet the same. The messed up men and how God used them throughout the Bible for the greater good.

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


 

Room for Hope by Kim Vogel Sawyer

In a desperate time, can Neva find forgiveness for a grievous wrong—and make room for hope?

Neva Shilling has a heavy load of responsibility while her husband travels to neighboring communities and sells items from his wagon. In his absence, she faithfully runs the Shilling Mercantile, working to keep their business strong as the Depression takes its toll, and caring for their twins.

When a wagon pulls up after supper, Neva and her children rush out—and into the presence of the deputy driving a wagon carrying three young children. The deputy shocks her with the news that Warren and his wife have died, insisting it was their last request that the three children go live with “Aunt Neva.”

Neva’s heart is shattered as she realizes that Warren’s month-long travels were excuses for visits with his secret family. She wants nothing more than to forget Warren, but can she abandon these innocent children to an orphanage? Yet if she takes them in, will she ever be able to see them as more than evidence of her husband’s betrayal and love them the way God does?

Amazon


About The Author


Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of twenty-one novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women’s fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and nine grandchildren.
 Website

My Review

This book will tug at your heat strings from beginning to end, while I was trying forever trying to put myself in the main character Neva’s shoes. Would I have the Grace to accept the lot that God was about to hand me, and you can see her struggle to live, as she believes.
The story takes place 1936 Kansas, the nation is still in the grip of the depression, and there is little money to go around. We hear of the hobo’s who roam the country trying to find work, hopping trains from town to town. Niva’s name is on their route as a generous soul who leaves food out for them.
Now you meet heart ache head on when a wagon arrives, at the same time Niva and her children are expecting their husband and father to come, but at their door is what is going to tear their world apart, nothing will ever be the same.
Loved that the family takes in three little children, but can they make them their own, will they become family or will an orphanage win out. Will Niva ever be able to hold her head up in her small town, and will she be able to go on with the business she has run with her husband?
Things were a lot different back then and people held different values, but the preacher here does a wonderful job in telling them biblical values.
I highly recommend this book, once you start, be ready to keep reading, I couldn’t put it down.
I received this book through Blogging For Books, and was not required to give a positive review.

Pimpernel by Sheralyn Pratt Review & Giveaway

   





Pimpernel by Sheralyn Pratt


They seek him here; they seek him there. For centuries, the elite of the world have sought the Pimpernel everywhere. Some want to kill him, others want to hire him, but Jack Cavanaugh knows that the love/hate relationship comes with the job title. At present, Jack is trying to dismantle an investment scheme centered in Las Vegas, but "trying" is the operative word. It's been a month since he put the face of the scheme behind bars, yet the scam is still going strong. As Jack tries to uncover who has stepped in as the new head, what miniscule evidence there is all seems to point him back to Claire Ramsey, an introverted PhD student studying at UNLV. If ever there as an unlikely head of a investment scheme, Claire's it. She has a genius IQ, but from all Jack has seen, Claire’s intelligence is as much a blessing as a curse when paired up with her acute OCD. Claire can barely make conversation with the cute guy down the hall, which makes it hard to believe she could be the charismatic salesperson who is getting international businessmen to invest $5—50 million a pop. So what is Jack missing? What is the real story behind Claire Ramsey? And once Jack
learns it, will he be able to walk away?


   

My Review

These people are super smart and reminded me of the TV show Leverage, so I loved the story.
This book has it all with a young woman’s fascination with a UNLV professor, to multimillion-dollar deals. Claire has a mind that won’t shut off, she is OCD and off her meds, she has been recruited to work a scam to help her idol, whom has ended in jail.
Enter the Pimpernel and his group, and her life will never be the same, and will she accept their help? As the story unfolds, I never saw most of it coming, there a chuckles and heart breaking reveals for Claire, how can people do these things?
Once you turn the first page you will be quickly absorbed in this story, and just wait until Claire opens the door of her apartment to find Daniel on the couch, slowly throwing his clothes. Enough said!
I received this book through I Am A Reader, Not A Writer, and was not required to give a positive review. 


Excerpt

The high-pitched scream from the other side of her apartment door shattered Claire’s thoughts. “Daniel?” That shriek had been way too high to come out of a man. “Help!” Daniel’s voice cried out from the other side of the door. Claire unlocked the door and pushed it open, finding Daniel cowering on the couch in sailor-themed boxer briefs. Classical music played from his bedroom, indicating Daniel had been sewing before he ended up on the couch. On the ground between them lay the lounge robe Daniel had made in his fashion design class along with his house slippers. They looked like they’d been flung at random. “Move!” he shrieked at her, stabbing his finger at the ground like a mad man. “Take the high ground and leave the door open. Maybe it will go back to the gates of hell, where it belongs!” Claire followed the direction of his manic gesturing, freezing when her eyes locked on something the size of her fist with eight hairy legs. “Daniel? Please tell me that is a toy.” “That. Is. NOT. A. Toy!” The spider chose that moment to make its move—which happened to be sprinting her way. Claire shrieked as Daniel motioned for her to join him on the couch. “High ground!” Was he insane? She would have to leap over the tarantula to get to him. Why in the world would she do that when she could just run away and go to a hotel for the night? “Voldemort?” a man’s voice said from behind her a split second before Claire backed into a male body blocking her retreat. Not only did Claire scream, but her body was suddenly possessed by an Olympic hurdler as she scampered across the living room and flung herself into Daniel’s arms on the couch. “You found her!” a flagpole of a man from the doorway said as Claire latched onto Daniel, hiding her face against his shoulder. If she didn’t see the spider, maybe it would cease to exist. “Found it?” Daniel scoffed. “That thing tried to duel me for my sandwich before I batted him off my kitchen table.” Claire shuttered, only vaguely realizing that the shoulder she was hiding her face in was bare. I’ve never hugged a guy who was only wearing underwear before, she thought a moment before Daniel pulled her keys out of her hand and flung them at the ground to join his slippers and robe. “Don’t chase it this way!” Daniel yelled at the other guy. “Come on, Voldemort,” the spider guy cooed. “Let’s get you back into your habitat—Don’t run!” Wait, it was running? Claire didn’t want to see that, yet something compelled her to turn and look anyway. People always said that horrible things seemed to happen in slow motion, but Claire could have sworn the giant arachnid was coming at her in fast-forward mode. In a heartbeat, she had climbed up to ride piggyback on Daniel while he responded by flapping his hands in panic as if he could fan the thing away with a light breeze. Not only did the spider keep running, it was sprinting like an arachnid with a plan—heading straight for the couch. When Daniel backed away, Claire felt her back thump into the wall. Before he could move again, she pushed off his back to stand on the back of the couch, dropping her purse when it threatened her balance. On the way down, it ended up in Daniel’s hands and he wasted no time finding items inside and tossing them at the spider while its owner moved in to act like a human shield. “No!” the tall guy cried as he tried to corral the beast. “Don’t throw things at her. You might hurt her.” Just then, Claire’s favorite lip gloss bounced off the hairy spider, stunning it. That lip gloss was dead to her—not just the tube, the actual brand. She’d never be able to look at it the same again.

     



Author Sheralyn Pratt

Some describe Sheralyn as a girl who's been around the block and worked at every shop. This isn't far from the truth. Writing is what she loves most, however. There's a magical power in stepping into new perspectives time and again, and seeing the world through different eyes. Few things increase empathy more than walking in another's shoes for 100,000 words or so. At least that seems to be the trend so far.

Some random things to know about Sheralyn: * She's a wanderer (geographically) * She can write a novel, but doesn't have the attention span for one page in a journal * She vehemently disagrees with Stephen King's stance that authors should not watch TV * She is pretty much incapable of sleeping before midnight.

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Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 2/28/16 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


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Proposals and Poison, Wedding Planner Mysteries book #3 Rachelle J. Christensen

Proposals and Poison, Wedding Planner Mysteries book #3 Rachelle J. Christensen “Cozy mystery meets romantic comedy in this fabulous, fast-paced story.” Cami Checketts author of The Resilient One, A Billionaire Bride Pact Romance Love can be a very dangerous thing. At least it seems that way to Adri Pyper, the premier wedding planner in Sun Valley, Idaho. When one of her clients dies mysteriously, Adri takes the advice of the local detective and swears she will stay out of the investigation . . . this time. Luke Stetson's involvement in the case, along with the possibility of a kiss between the two, should be enough incentive to keep Adri out of trouble. But when a dog-themed wedding is almost ruined by a suspect, Adri and her assistant, Lorea, are thrust into private eye mode. When poison enters the picture, even a reluctant sleuth can’t steer clear of danger.




 




 “Packed with danger and romance, intrigue and entertainment, Rachelle Christensen's Wedding Planner series is romantic suspense that will keep you turning pages late into the night!” --Maria Hoagland, Author of The ReModel Marriage (Romance Renovations series)




   










Author Rachelle J. Christensen Rachelle is a mother of five who writes mystery/suspense, nonfiction, and women’s fiction. She solves the case of the missing shoe on a daily basis. She enjoys raising chickens and laughing with her husband. She graduated cum laude from Utah State University with a degree in psychology and a minor in music. Rachelle is the award-winning author of ten books, including The Soldier’s Bride (a Kindle Scout Selection), Wrong Number, Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things, What Every 6th Grader Needs to Know, and Christmas Kisses: An Echo Ridge Anthology. Her novella, “Silver Cascade Secrets,” was included in the Rone Award–winning Timeless Romance Anthology, Fall Collection. Rachelle has a VIP mailing list where all subscribers get access to free books, guides, and other resources. Sign up now to hear what exciting news Rachelle has to share. http://eepurl.com/eFD3o

 

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Series endorsements “Mystery, suspense, murder and romance all intriguingly tied together in one very fun walk-down-the-aisle cozy mystery!”—Shauna Wheelwright, reviewer “I love a great mystery that keeps my interest and keeps the pages turning. I loved the Hawaiian setting, that was a character on its own. As the story progressed, I enjoyed where the author went with the mystery, doing a perfect job of planting the right amount of seeds to try to throw me off the trail of who the killer was.”—Mindy Holt, reviewer

 Giveaway Details $25 cash giveaway plus an ebook bundle of the Wedding Planner Mystery Books 1 & 2. (gifted via Amazon) Ends 3/3/16 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blue Ribbon Trail Ride by Miralee Ferrell

Blue Ribbon Trail Ride (David C. Cook, January 2016)
Thirteen-year old Kate and her friends came up with the perfect way to raise money for her autistic younger brother and others to attend summer camp—a horse scavenger hunt! As local businesses donate money and prizes, Kate keeps the entry fees in her mom’s antique jewelry box.
But when the box and the money disappear, Kate and her friends must unravel the clues, hold on to hope, and solve the mystery along the Blue Ribbon Trail Ride.
Learn more and purchase a copy.


Don’t miss the newest book from Miralee Ferrell in her Horses and Friends series, Blue Ribbon Trail Ride. Thirteen-year old Kate had to figure out how to raise money for her autistic younger brother and others to attend summer camp. As local businesses donate money and prizes, Kate keeps the entry fees in her mom’s antique jewelry box. But when the box and the money disappear, Kate and her friends must unravel the clues, hold on to hope, and solve the mystery along the Blue Ribbon Trail Ride.


About The Author

Miralee Ferrell is the award-winning author of more than a dozen novels. She and her husband live along the Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington State, where she enjoys riding the wooded trails and spending time with her grown children. In addition to horses and dogs, Miralee once owned two cougars.
Find out more about Miralee at http://miraleeferrell.com/main.

My Review

This book has a lot of good lessons for all, and the fact that they all could be real is heart warming. Blue Ribbon Trail Ride is the fourth book in this series, and they are all amazing and full of good life lessons.
This book focuses on Kate’s younger brother’s autism, and how he won’t be able to go to a special camp, because of financial reasons. Of course, these loving young teens come up with a wonderful idea to earn money not only for Pete but others with the same condition. They plan an awesome scavenger hunt, along with a trail ride, what fun. The community seems to rally around them, but then they become devastated, and Pete probably won’t be going to camp.
Some cute and some funny situations arise when they put their sleuthing heads together and try to track back the person whom has waylaid their plans.
A very enjoyable read for all, and this one should keep them reading right to the end, and who wouldn’t want to know what happens?
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.