Tuesday, May 31, 2016

A Simple Vow by Charlotte Hubbard



Housed in a rustic red barn, the Simple Gifts crafts shop celebrates the talents of the Amish of Willow Ridge--and the faith that inspires them. For the acceptance of simplicity opens the path to love.

As far as Edith Riehl is concerned, the baby twins thrust suddenly into her arms are a heaven-sent gift. Unable to conceive, she longs to be a mother with a home of her own. She's going to abide by her promise to handsome Asa Detweiler to take care of them while he looks for their real father. And even if her domineering dat Cornelius refuses to countenance Asa's suit, she can only pray the bachelor's honesty and persistence will uncover the truth--even as he's kindled an impossible hope for a love of her own . . .

Asa can't understand why anyone would think he would be so dishonorable as to father babies and then abandon them. He's determined to clear his name--but Edith's caring ways also inspire him to help heal her wounded spirit and earn her trust. In the face of heartbreaking deception, he and Edith must find the strength to understand, forgive . . . and claim their own hearts' joy.

Praise for Charlotte Hubbard's Seasons of the Heart series

"Another great book centered around the Sweet Seasons Café." --RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

"These very special books will sit proudly on my keeper shelf!" --Romance Reviews Today

  
About The Author








Many moons ago—like, in 1983 while she was still a school librarian—Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. This launched her into writing around seventy of those “true confessions” stories over the years, and she’s been a slave to her overactive imagination ever since. Over the course of her writing career, she has sold nearly 50 books—most recently, Amish romance series she’s written as Charlotte Hubbard or Naomi King.
Charlotte lived in Missouri for most of her life, so her Amish stories are set in imaginary Missouri towns. These days she lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband of 40 years and their Border collie, Ramona.


My Review
I am so happy that the author has brought back to Willow Ridge, and back with old and beloved friends. While this book focus is on the Riehl family, recent arrivals to this Amish town, and with three marriageable aged daughters, my hope is we will be back again, and I really want to know what “Dat” is up to?
This is the youngest daughter’s story, Edith, and her chance meeting with Asa Detweiler, who comes from another Amish community. It seems once he sets eyes on Edith he is about to move heaven and earth to be with her, and tries to convince his brother, with whom he is in a furniture refinishing business with, to move to the progressive Willow Ridge. Asa is convinced that he needs Edith, and that his business is about to flourish if the brother’s move.
There is also a precious set of twins, Louisa and Leroy, who are turned over to the Riehl family, and Edith embraces as her own. Wait until you find out who is accused of being the father of these adorable babies.
Of course life cannot run smooth all the time, and this book will not leave you disappointed with the jaw dropping things that are about to happen. A book not to be missed, and looking forward to the next one!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zebra, and was not required to give a positive review.

Through the Shadows (The Golden Gate Chronicles #3) by Karen Barnett & Giveaway









As San Francisco rises from the ashes, an age-old battle looms between corruption and the promise of new beginnings.
The devastating earthquake is just two years past, but the city of San Francisco is still trying to recover. Destruction of this magnitude is not so easy to overcome-and neither are the past regrets shadowing Elizabeth King’s hopeful future.
Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth dedicates herself to helping girls rescued from slavery in Chinatown brothels, even if it means putting her own life at risk to sneak through the gloomy alleys and rooftops where dangers lurk.
Putting her life on the line for a worthy cause is admirable. But opening her heart is even more terrifying. So when Elizabeth meets attorney, Charles McKinley—a man who dreams of reforming San Francisco’s crooked politics—Elizabeth begins to doubt: Can she maintain her pretense and hide her past? Or will her secret jeopardize both their futures?
Learn more and purchase a copy.


Enter to win a copy of Through the Shadows—five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced June 7th on Karen’s blog!
through the shadows - 400





About The Author
Karen Barnett


Karen Barnett is the author of "Beyond the Ashes," "Out of the Ruins," and "Mistaken." Named the 2013 Writer of Promise by Oregon Christian Writers, Karen lives in Albany, Oregon, with her husband and two kids. When she’s not writing novels, she loves speaking at women’s events, libraries, and book clubs.

My Review
This story brings us to San Francisco, California as it is rebuilding after the 1906 devastating earthquake. As the book opens Charles McKinley is bringing the sad news that the King families fortune has been lost in the fires that came after the quake, and the buildings their father had invested in are destroyed.
Elizabeth King had been staying with her mother when they learn the news, and at the same time she meets Miss Cameron and finds a calling for herself, and maybe a reason to go on. Charles was also at the meeting with Miss Cameron and is also feeling led to help her mission. Miss Cameron life’s work is rescuing children whom have been sold into slavery, and worse.
There are sparks flying between Elizabeth and Charles, but not always sweet ones. Elizabeth is hiding a horrible secret, and Charles is trying to make his uncle proud as he begins his career after graduating law school.
Poor Charles is really up against it at the law firm, will he play along, or will he stand up for himself and beliefs? When some of the findings would help people he cares about, will he give up all that is going to come his way?
You will be turning pages pretty fast, as you pursue answers to what is going on, and you may be surprised what it is all about, and will all the secrets be found out?
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Abingdon, and was not required to give a positive review.








Monday, May 30, 2016

The NKJV Study Bible, Personal Size, Paperback: Full-Color Edition








"The NKJV Study Bible," the most comprehensive study Bible available, now in a full-color edition with added features! The acclaimed "NKJV Study Bible" is the most complete study system for all who desire accurate study in God's Word. The Second Edition includes more features to make it the best all-purpose study Bible. Using the trusted New King James Version, "The NKJV Study Bible" has "the mind of a scholar and the heart of a pastor." Nelson's skilled team of scholars has produced "the" system to reach for when study in God's Word is the goal.

Features include:


NEW attractive new full-color page design NEW stunning Bible-land photos and graphics NEW in-text maps and charts Full cross-references with textual notes Word studies and indexes Bible Times and Culture Notes Book introductions, outlines, and timelines Reader-friendly notes and articles ideal for extended study Deluxe NKJV Concordance including proper names
Part of the "Signature Series" line of Thomas Nelson Bibles

"NKJV Study Bibles" sold to date: More than 1.3 million

The New King James Version(R)--More than 60 million copies sold
 

Product Details

 My Review



Having used this bible exclusively for the past few weeks, I was testing how I would like it, and found that it is just what I was looking for in a study Bible.
This Bible is for my daily reading, with a 23 page of subject index, a 194-page concordance, 69 color maps throughout the bible, I love this, and 7 pages Harmony of the Gospels.
The book is a little heavy for my purse at 2.7 pounds, and is the size of a standard book at 8”, but it is 2 1/4” thick, so I can’t quite carry it around comfortably. I use it as it is intended as my study Bible, and find it really handy.
So I for one am very much enjoying what is offered with this Study Bible, and am so glad to have received it!
I received this book through Thomas Nelson Publishing and was not required to give a positive review.

 

A Daughter's Dream (The Charmed Amish Life #2) by Shelley Shepard Gray


Can Rebecca, a teacher, and Jacob, a single father, find healing from past wounds and love in one another, despite the obstacles they face? Don’t miss book two, A Daughter’s Dream, in Shelley Shepard Gray’s The Charmed Amish Life series. When a fateful accident brings them together, Rebecca and Jacob must choose between duty and desire. Will they follow the path before them? Or set out to find true happiness . . . and true love?



Enter to win a copy of A Daughter’s Dream—five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced June 8th on Shelley’s blog!



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A Daughter's Dream


A Daughter’s Dream (Avon Inspire, May 2016)
A young teacher and farmer discover they have much in common, especially when it comes to healing old wounds from the past . . . and finding love in one another.
Rebecca Kinsinger has always dreamed of being a teacher. But when she’s given the opportunity she’s been waiting for at Charm Amish School, she’s dismayed to discover that teaching is hard work—work she’s afraid she’s not very good at.
That is, until Lilly Yoder joins the class. A thirteen-year old who’s just lost her parents, Lilly is in need of someone like Rebecca. For the first time since starting her new job, Rebecca feels a sense of purpose. But when she meets Lilly’s uncle, Jacob, his good looks and sweet, easy-going temperament are hard to ignore. How can she even entertain romantic thoughts of Jacob when his niece is her student?
Suddenly becoming Lily’s sole caregiver, Jacob Yoder never thought he’d be a single parent—or a farmer. Having been living in Florida as a carpenter, Jacob feels more at home wielding a hammer than a backhoe. The only bright spot in his life is Rebecca Kinsinger. As Lily and Rebecca develop a bond, Jacob’s fondness for the pretty teacher grows, too.
But when a fateful accident brings them together, Rebecca and Jacob must choose between duty and desire. Will they follow the path before them? Or set out to find true happiness . . . and true love?


Learn more and purchase a copy.


 
Shelley Shepard Gray

About The Author

Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.

Find out more about Shelley at http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.








My Review


This is the second book in The Charmed Amish Life series, and we are back Charm Ohio, and back with some old friends that we made in the first book.
Darla and Lukas are now married, and living with Lukas’s family, all except Levi, and no one seems to knows where he is.
Lukas gives his sister Rebecca a chance to follow her dream of becoming a teacher, and as she is trying to find her footing, we follow her around. While filling in at the school she meets a newly orphaned girl Lilly, and her Uncle Jacob, who has taken over the job of raising her. While Rebecca has lost both of her parents, she tries to help Lilly, but we find her failing.
Will Rebecca be able to fulfill her dreams of teaching, and will she end up making a difference in Lilly’s life? Will the sparks that I noticed between Rebecca and Jacob amount to anything, or will one of the other men at the factory who have an eye on Rebecca win her heart?
I loved being back with these friendly and kind Amish families, and they are really on the road to recovery after the devastating fire.
I received this book though Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.

Friday, May 27, 2016

Splash Into Summer Giveaway Hop ~ $10 Amazon Gift Card

We are finally heading into summer, and vacation, a time to read? I am offering a $10 Amazon Gift Card so you can choose that one you have been wanting to read when you have time. Just fill out the attached Rafflecopter.  Good Luck!
VOID WHERE PROHIBITED


a Rafflecopter giveaway


 

Every Bride Has Her Day (Brides With Style #3)



Another Delightful Romance from the Queen of Romantic Comedy
Katie Fisher is ecstatic. Pro basketball star Brady James has proposed, and she can't wait to start planning their life together. She's confident she'll make it down the aisle this time--but it still may be easier said than done. A high-society Houston bride has Katie and the Cosmopolitan Bridal team scrambling to get the perfect dress done in time for her spectacular wedding. Meanwhile, Katie finds herself bombarded with everyone's competing visions regarding her own special day--and she's beginning to worry that her own ideas will get lost in the crossfire. Will she ever manage to settle all of the details for "her" perfect day? Or will bridal shop chaos and overzealous friends and family make a mess of everything?
Fan favorite Janice Thompson gives readers what they've been clamoring for: another funny, romantic romp with a Texas twang.


Amazon




About The Author



Janice Thompson

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter. An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner. She is the author of the hugely popular Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series, as well as Picture Perfect, The Icing on the Cake, and The Dream Dress. She lives in Texas.

Learn more at www.janiceathompson.com.

My Review
Our girl is finally going to be able to wear her wedding gown, the one she won when she thought she was going to marry her old boyfriend. Now she is engaged to her basketball star, Brady James, walking on cloud nine.
We encounter everyone with an idea of what Katie’s wedding should be about, even down to the honeymoon. Oh dear, and she works in the business now, most everyone is very experienced and have wonderful ideas, but she wants her own, and doesn’t want to hurt anyone.
Well we know something has to go wrong, and you will be surprised what happens, will Katie and Brady get the wedding of their dreams?
We have others weddings in this popping up, some planned and others a big surprise. You won’t want to miss this one; it will keep you up late reading. Enjoy!
I received this book through Revell’s Blogger Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.


Thursday, May 26, 2016

Someone Like You by Victoria Bylin









Single mom Julia Dare has a lot on her plate.
A brand new Christian, Julia is busy trying to run her own business, spend time with her widowed mother, and raise her young son, Max, despite his father’s less-than-ideal influence on him. When a big account from her event-planning business sends her to the Caliente Springs resort, she’s shocked to come face-to-face with Zeke Monroe, the resort’s general manager and her college sweetheart.
With his faith in tatters, Zeke Monroe is determined to keep the historic Caliente Springs resort running despite financial difficulties. But when Julia walks back into his life, he can’t ignore the feelings she stirs up. As they work together on an important client’s dream wedding, the fate of the resort soon depends on their success. When Zeke and Julia are pushed to their limits both personally and professionally, will their history put up walls between them or bring them together?

Learn more and purchase a copy.


someone like you - 400

  https://promosimple.com/ps/9939

About The Author 

Victoria Bylin
Victoria Bylin writes contemporary and historical romances known for their realistic, relatable characters. Her work has finaled in contests such as the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and the RT Reviewers' Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky.


My Review





The setting of this book, made me want to live there, Caliente Springs resort, even the name sounds wonderful. After leaving Berkley and trying to be what his Dad wanted him to be Zeke Monroe is at a high point in his career, but a low point with God. Now being a preacher's son and trying to live in his father's shoes and being the best Christian ever, has been a hard roll for Zeke, and making him take a 50 degree turn. He has stopped relying on God, but God sure hasn't given up on him.
A young single mom that used to be a couple with Zeke, comes to check out Caliente Springs, coincidence? I think not, she has made a 50 degree turn in her life and is now a Christian, after all the years of Zeke trying to show her the way, now maybe she can show him? Julia Dare has a new job, and with her mom's help is raising her 4 year old son Max, and she now has a new event-planning job.
We also meet Max's dad Hunter, and don't know about you, but I sure didn't like that "Me" person. Little Max is a reflection on him, as is everyone and everything.
I could feel that maybe there would be a bit of romance here, but we find more than that, but who will be the ones who end up together? Even Julia's mom Ellen is in for a surprise.
I felt myself page turning and hoping for everything to be ok, even the horse, but watch out for the goat!
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review 

Saved By Grace by Natasha C. Pointer




Genre: Poetry/ Christian/Autobiography
Book Title: Saved By Grace
Author: Natasha C. Pointer
About The Author



Author | Motivational Speaker | Entrepreneur

Born and raised in Fort Myers, FL, Natasha C. Pointer, shares her stories of faith and encouragement through poetry. She serves in ministry at Destiny Life Ministries. Saved by Grace is her first published work and is currently working on her next book Expressions. She is the owner/founder of Mysteries Message-In-A-Bottle.



About The Book


Saved By Grace is an Autobiography told thru poetry about her life, the hardships she faced, but most importantly how she overcame it all through prayer, faith, and steadfastness.
Poetry to touch the lives of others, to inspire someone, to encourage, and to bring joy in someone’s life. This book is filled with great hope for those facing life’s most challenging moments. 
As a storyteller, Natasha shares where she found her greatest strengths through prayer, faith and her steadfastness. 
Blessed
From the day you were born,
you were a blessing.
You were a comfort and
inspiration to those around you.
You suffered enormous tragedies
and faced many challenges.
You suffered a great deal
and life as you saw it was over.
Each day seemed like an eternity—
every moment seemed everlasting.
You went in with your eyes closed,
but came out with them wide open.
You fell to your knees and asked,
why, why me?
Not realizing that your trials
would prepare you for your future.
Not knowing you were a blessed child
and you were called for a purpose.
Many obstacles came your way
and the enemy tried to bring you down.
He never wanted you to succeed,
let alone see the light of day.
Your cries reached up to God.
He said, You are my child.
No matter where you go,
I will be with you.
You are blessed.
Blessed you shall be,
and blessed you shall continue to be;
not only to yourself, but to others.
Website            Facebook
www.wnlbooktours.com

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Anchor in the Storm (Waves of Freedom #2) by Sarah Sundin








One plucky female pharmacist + one high-society naval officer = romance—and danger
For plucky Lillian Avery, America’s entry into World War II means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The challenges of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg’s attentions only annoy–even if he is her brother’s best friend.
During the darkest days of the war, Arch’s destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves–and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions for sedatives Lillian has filled? The two work together to answer that question, but can Arch ever earn Lillian’s trust and affection?
Sarah Sundin brings World War II to life, offering readers an intense experience they won’t soon forget.
Learn more and purchase a copy.


Celebrate the release of Sarah’s Anchor in the Storm by entering to win her All Hands on Deck Prize Pack!
anchor in the storm - 400
One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A signed copy of Anchor in the Storm
  • Nautical tote bag lined with anchor fabric
  • Anchor necklace made from copper reclaimed from the USS Constitution in Boston during restoration
  • 365 Devotions for Hope by Karen Whiting
  • Shine: Nautical Inspirational Adult Coloring Book
  • “Hope Anchors the Soul” journal
  • Set of two nautical tea towels
LF AIS full group 2
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on June 8th. The winner will be announced June 9th on Sarah’s blog.
anchor in the storm - banner




About The Author
SSundin



Sarah Sundin is the author of eight historical novels, including "Anchor in the Storm." Her novel "Through Waters Deep" was named to Booklist’s “101 Best Romance Novels of the Last 10 Years,” and her novella “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” in "Where Treetops Glisten" was a finalist for the 2015 Carol Award. A mother of three, Sarah lives in California, works on-call as a hospital pharmacist, and teaches Sunday school.

My Review


I should state that I’ve read every one of the author’s books that I could get my hands on, and loved them all. That being said this book is no exception, once you pick it up, your gone page turning.
We are back with some dear friends that we met in Through Waters Deep, and get reacquainted, and was happy to see Mary and Jim’s relationship moving forward. Jim’s friend Arch who we also met, and wasn’t sure if I really cared for him, but he seemed changed, and he becomes interested in Jim’s sister Lillian.
If you remember Lillian was injured as a child and lost her leg, and because of that she has been ridiculed and hurt by people, an x-boyfriend who said he loved her, and even her twin sister. Now Arch also has a chip on his shoulder, and he is leery of all woman gold diggers, or so he thinks.
This book brings face to face with U-boats off our coast, and dealing with the aftermath of battle fatigue, and how our soldiers were able to deal with the nerves.
There are some really sad happenings here, a drug ring, murder, and prying on our sailors. You will never see most of what happens here coming; I was very surprised at all who are involved, and I guess good old greed is to be blamed.
We see action in the seas, and a bit of romance, and a lot of heartache, as we meld into everyday life in 1942 Boston, MA. Once you pick this one up you will not regret it, and the next book is coming out next spring, the only time I really wish time would move faster.
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.

I Am A Reader, Not A Writer Presents: Heart of the Billionaire by Jenifer Youngblood and Sandra Poole Blast

Heart of the Billionaire
 


The scrumptiously romantic series continues with the second book in the Almost an Angel Series by Bestselling Authors Jenifer Youngblood and Sandra Poole Gracie, an angel-in-training, has completed her first assignment, reuniting Alex and Dawson after their tumultuous breakup. Her elation is cut short when she receives her next assignment: Brooke Matthews—the snotty, entitled, princess, who did everything in her power to snatch Dawson away from Alex. Where in the world will Gracie find a man to put up with this beauty of a beast? Nash Rigby is a bull rider. Used to taking life by the horns, he’s willing to enter into an arrangement—a dubious arrangement—to save his father’s ranch. He’s trained to hang on for all he’s worth for eight seconds, but can this cowboy hang on to Brooke long enough to win the prize? Or, will he be able to see Brooke’s inner beauty and find the love of a lifetime? Maybe … with a little help from an almost angel. Faced with the insurmountable task of helping the cowboy and the billionaire’s daughter fall in love, Gracie digs in, determined to do things her way. When Sheldon, a dark angel with killer looks, floats back into her life, err … afterlife, Gracie must fight against her growing attraction to heaven’s bad boy. Heart of the Billionaire is a stand-alone novel. But to get the full effect of how things work in the realm of angels, check out Candlelight Kisses (Book 1 in the Almost an Angel Series)




amazon  




Praise for the Series: "I did not see that ending coming! Gracie is not what I expected either...she doesn't fit the mold of what you think an "angel-in-training" is supposed to be like, and it will be fun to see her continue to learn and change. I love her mentor, Gertrude! It is a fun, clean romance that keeps you interested and entertained. Eagerly anticipating the next one in the series!” by Verified Amazon Customer "Love this series! Nash's desire to save his father's ranch touched me. And it helped he's hot and swoon worthy! And Gracie's love story with the 'bad boy' makes it even more interesting! Love this! Don't miss it!” Always Reading



 add to goodreads  




 Excerpt From Heart of the Billionaire (Book 2 in The Almost an Angel Series) Stewart Matthews sat poised on the edge of his seat, his body taut—his face wearing the laser-beam focus of a General preparing for battle. In many ways, he was fighting the greatest battle of his life, for it involved the heart of the one he loved the most. He could only see one way to help Brooke, but she wouldn’t like it. In fact, she would be so angry that she might never speak to him again. That was the price he would have to pay for attempting to save her. Better to be a parent than a friend. Even though he dreaded what was to come, he knew there was no other option. His money had been the thing that sent Brooke down her path of self-destruction. He could only hope that it would also be the catalyst that would save her A feeling of resignation settled over him as he looked down at the blank page. Then he picked up the pen and began to write … My Darling Brooke, From the moment you were born and I held you in my arms, I knew that my life would never again be the same. Never before had I experienced such pure and complete love. And that love has only grown and multiplied over the years. You are my heart, my primary responsibility, and I will take any measures necessary to protect you, even if that means protecting you from yourself. Sweetheart, my only desire is that you find joy and contentment—the kind that can only come from within. You need to learn to love unconditionally and to love someone so completely that you are willing to put his needs before your own. Please know that I have spent many a night, walking the floors, trying to determine the best course of action to set you back on the right path. A way has been opened up, and I intend to take full advantage of it. My only hope is that you will one day find it in your heart to forgive me, for what I’m about to do. A knock sounded. He looked up as his assistant stuck her head in the door. “I’m sorry to disturb you, but the attorney is here and waiting in the conference room. It’s time.” The moment of truth was here. Once he signed the documents, there would be no going back. He blew out a breath, a rigid look of determination on his lined face. “Tell them I’ll be there in five minutes.”





     
Youngblood Poole




Jennifer Youngblood & Sandra Poole Jennifer and Sandra—daughter and mother writing duo—have been writing together for many years and have over a dozen published novels, a collection of short stories, and a children’s book (released under the pen name of Periwinkle Blue). They feel it’s a great privilege to be able to collaborate with each other as it adds a depth and spice to their work that neither of them could get independently. For them, writing is a continual journey of discovery. They have so many ideas for books that it’s hard to focus on one at a time. Both of them have a penchant for chocolate, seafood, and movies. Jennifer has a B.A. in English and Social Sciences from BYU Hawaii, and Sandra has a Masters in Business Administration. Jennifer and Sandra now live in the Rocky Mountains with their families.






 Blast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 6/13/16 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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Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Silence in the Dark (Logan Point, #4) by Patricia Bradley






Two years ago, Bailey Adams broke off her engagement to Danny Maxwell and fled Logan Point for the mission field in Chihuahua, Mexico. Now she's about to return home to the States, but there's just one problem. After Bailey meets with the uncle of one of the mission children in the city, she barely escapes a sudden danger. Now she's on the run--she just doesn't know from whom. To make matters worse, people who help her along the way find themselves in danger too--including Danny. Who is after her? Will they ever let up? And in the midst of the chaos, can Bailey keep herself from falling in love with her rescuer all over again?

With lean, fast-paced prose that keeps readers turning the pages, Patricia Bradley pens a superb story of suspense and second chances.


Amazon




About The Author 

 
Patricia Bradley's manuscript for Shadows of the Past was a finalist for the 2012 Genesis Award, winner of a 2012 Daphne du Maurier award (1st place, Inspirational), and winner of a 2012 Touched by Love award (1st place, Contemporary). She is a published short story writer and is cofounder of Aiming for Healthy Families, Inc. When she's not writing or speaking, she can be found making beautiful clay pots and jewelry. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America and makes her home in Mississippi.


Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.




 


My Review 




From the moment you turn the first page to the end, you will find each of these people looking over their shoulder, who is the evil one and whom can they trust.
After her ending her quick engagement of one night Baily Adams flees to Chihuahua, Mexico, and when this story begins we are about to return to the States for a visit. While in Mexico, you can see that God placed her there, and she was following His will. She runs into an evil shaman, who claims to be a priest, who does many things to run her out, and have her stop having the natives follow the bible.
When Bailey returns she is given into her care a precocious four-year-old Maria Montoya, and you will wonder why. When she and Marie become a target, you will be surprised who comes to her rescue, again and again.
Then there is also Angel Guerraro, and is he a person to put your trust in, or is he part of the Cartel. Such evil abounds, and just whom do you trust, and are you making the right decision when you do. Loved how bible verses are used here as clues to their where about when kidnapped. Can you imagine having to carry kidnap insurance, seems to be a common practice in Mexico.
Come and enjoy a great roller coaster ride, and hope the ones we start to care about, come out on top.
I received this book through the Revell Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.

Monday, May 23, 2016

Traces of Guilt (Evie Blackwell Cold Case #1) by Dee Henderson






A Riveting Cold-Case Mystery from Dee Henderson
Evie Blackwell loves her life as an Illinois State Police Detective . . . mostly. She's very skilled at investigations and has steadily moved up through the ranks. She would like to find Mr. Right, but she has a hard time imagining how marriage could work, considering the demands of her job.
Gabriel Thane is a lifetime resident of Carin County and now its sheriff, a job he loves. Gabe is committed to upholding the law and cares deeply for the residents he's sworn to protect. He too would like to find a lifetime companion, a marriage like his parents have. . . .
When Evie arrives in Carin, Illinois, it's to help launch a new task force dedicated to reexamining unsolved crimes across the state. Spearheading this trial run, Evie will work with the sheriff's department on a couple of its most troubling missing-persons cases. As she reexamines old evidence to pull out a few tenuous new leads, she unearths a surprising connection . . . possibly to a third cold case. Evie's determined to solve the cases before she leaves Carin County, and Sheriff Thane, along with his family, will be key to those answers.


About The Author



Dee Henderson is the author of numerous novels, including Taken, Undetected, Unspoken, Full Disclosure, and the acclaimed O'Malley and Uncommon Heroes series. Her books have won or been nominated for several prestigious industry awards, such as the RITA Award, the Christy Award, and the ECPA Gold Medallion. Dee is a lifelong resident of Illinois. Learn more at www.deehenderson.com.

My Review

This story is supposed to be about two cold cases, and in the end there are at least five crimes exposed, if not more.
Evie Blackwell has taken vacation time from her Illinois State Police job, and is on the short list to head up the new Governor’s cold case task force. She is staying in Carin County, and looking into the disappearance of a local police officer, his wife, and son, the Florist family. Also a missing six year old, Ashley Dayton, missing from a rest stop, and family is still hoping for her return.
What makes these cases so interesting, they seem to bring other cases to the forefront at the same time? We also meet the Thane family, and by the time we are finished with the book, you will want to move in with Marie. Marie’s husband, and her three sons, all seem so wonderful and devoted Christians, and have great hearts. One son Gabriel is the Chief of Police, and he interacts with Evie, and seems to always be looking out for her welfare. Kept hoping for some romantic sparks between the two, and think if either of them let them there would be.
We follow leads and hunches all over the place, even believing the family could have obtained new identities. There is missing money, they were driving a camper, and it just disappeared. Wow, what minds looking into these cases.
If you like mystery this one really should satisfy your needs. Will she be able to solve what no one else has been able to?
I received this book through Bethany House Blogger Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.

Competing with a Star by Krysten Lindsay Hager

Competing with a star  


Competing with a Star by Krysten Lindsay Hager Hadley Daniels’s life seems perfect… Before the beginning of sophomore year of high school, Hadley and her family move to a beautiful beach town, where she makes amazing new friends and lands the boyfriend of her dreams—Nick Jenkins. He’s the kind of guy every girl swoons over, and it isn’t long until Hadley discovers some are still swooning. A famous ex-girlfriend makes matters more complicated… After some time dating, Hadley and Nick form a deep bond. But insecurity sets in when Hadley discovers her boyfriend once had a huge crush on her friend—who just happens to be the beautiful former teen TV star, Simone Hendrickson. The past is the past—or so they say… Hadley confronts Nick, who confesses about his history with Simone. Though he claims to only have eyes for Hadley now, it’s hard to believe—especially when she’s blindsided with the news that Nick and Simone kissed after school. Now Hadley must determine who is telling the truth. Love, betrayal, friendship…who needs soap opera drama when you’re busy competing with a star?


Excerpt
Then the most beautiful sound in the world came along—the final bell. I grabbed my bag and rushed out the door to my locker, where I ran into Reagan O’Hara, Nick’s gorgeous ex-girlfriend. “Watch where you’re going, spaz,” she said, glaring at me. “Exactly where are you in such a hurry to get to anyway? I can’t imagine that you’d have plans.”
I could have said, “Off to meet my boyfriend, you know, the guy you used to badmouth me to,” but no, I took the high road and said, “Excuse me,” and kept going.
“Whatever, loser,” she said. My shoulders tensed. As I tried to ignore her and tell myself it was just jealousy, I couldn’t pretend that her words didn’t hurt. I had been considered kind of a loser at my old school in Goodacre. I had had one super close best friend who I did everything with, Lexi Irvin, and when she moved to Dallas, it was as if I had been abandoned. So yeah, I had felt like a complete loser in Goodacre, but now I was here in Grand Haven, with new friends and a new positive outlook on life. I had a new best friend, Charlotte Lidstrom, and had become friends with former teen TV star Simone Hendrickson and her best friend, Asia Milanowski.
It could be intimidating hanging out with Simone since she was popular, pretty, and famous. Sometimes I felt invisible next to her, and unfortunately, hanging with Simone sometimes meant spending time with people like Reagan or Simone’s other friends, Pilar Ito and Morgan Kemp. Morgan was the ultimate mean girl. I swear, even if she told me she loved my outfit and was hooked up to a lie detector test saying she was telling the truth, I still wouldn’t want to risk it and I’d go home and change. But today I was not going to worry about Morgan, Reagan, or any of that. I was just going to focus on my first date with Nick.
Until I rounded the corner and ran into Simone, who was waiting for me at my locker with Morgan and Pilar.
“Hey, Hadley,” Simone said. “Wanted to return your lucky bracelet. Let’s hope it helped me pass my math test.”
She handed me my heart and natural stone charm bracelet and I slid it on my wrist. Morgan looked down at my hands and made a face.
“Why are you wearing such dark nail polish?” she asked me.
My face got warm. “I thought the color was pretty when I saw it in the store. I’ve never seen this shade of purple with so much blue in it.”
“Guys aren’t into weird nail polish colors,” Morgan said as she fluffed her long curly blonde hair with her red polished fingers.
Great, so even my nail polish was wrong. Could I do anything right?
“Here comes Nick,” Pilar said, and the girls all got quiet.
“Hey, guys,” he said, coming up and nodding at them. I started to curl my fingers under so he wouldn’t notice my dark polish—the color that up until a few minutes ago I thought was unique and beautiful was now making me feel like a little oddball.
“Cool color,” Nick said.
“Huh?”
“I like the blue. It’s very you,” he said, and then he reached over and intertwined his fingers with mine. Take that, you dark nail polish haters.
“So are we all heading over to Scoops together?” he asked.
Simone played with a strand of her long blonde hair, but didn’t say a thing.
“Yup, we thought we’d go over with you guys,” Morgan said, smiling up at him with her gleaming white teeth.
Wait, what? No, not cool. This was our first date and I knew I’d feel awkward talking to him around a group—a group judging me on what I said, did, and apparently even the colors I wore.




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Praise: “Hadley our teenage heroine has many of the insecurities, which inflict most of us at this young age…A lovely story, with some good lessons about friendship, self-esteem and relationships, perfectly pitched for teen/young adult readers.” From author Jane Hunt. “…Hager's main character is representative of every teenage girl. The author really nailed the reality of a young girl's early high school years. I think this is a valuable read for girls ages 12-18.” Review from Readers’ Favorite book reviews. “…The story gives you so much insight into the minds of teenage girls and makes you realize that deep down, everyone has the same insecurities and everyone goes through the same things in life. Despite these insecurities and fears, the main character stands up for herself. This is such an important message for teen girls!” Amazon customer review



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Krysten L


Author Krysten Lindsay Hager Krysten Lindsay Hager writes about friendship, self-esteem, fitting in, frenemies, crushes, fame, first loves, and values. She is the author of True Colors, Best Friends...Forever?, Next Door to a Star, Landry in Like. and Competing with the Star (The Star Series: Book 2). Her work has been featured in USA Today, The Flint Journal, the Grand Haven Tribune, the Bellbrook Times, and on Living Dayton.





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Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 6/12/16 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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Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presents: The Con: An Organized Crime Cozy Mystery by Jackie Layton

  The Con: An Organized Crime Cozy Mystery by Jackie Layton About The Con The Con: An Organized Crime Cozy Mystery Cozy ...