Saturday, September 30, 2023

Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presents: Secrets and Scallywags: Magical Mystery Book Club by Elizabeth Pantley

Secrets and Scallywags: Magical Mystery Book Club
by Elizabeth Pantley

About Secrets and Scallywags

Secrets and Scallywags: Magical Mystery Book Club
Paranormal Cozy Mystery
5th in Series
Setting – A Small Oceanfront Community
Better Beginnings, Inc. (September 20, 2023)
Digital Print length ‏ : ‎ 256 pages
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C494MPJ8

When this club selects a book, magic happens. They become the main characters in the story when the mystery comes to life.

This month’s book selection takes them to a charming island community that’s abuzz over a mysterious boat that washed ashore. Rumor has it that it’s the same pirate boat that sunk a year ago in the bay. The one that supposedly sank with treasure aboard.

When the club meets the ghosts of the men from the boat, they learn the astonishing secrets of the treasure. These ghosts can’t move on until it is found.

Can the motley group find the treasure and free the ghosts? They better, since it’s the only way they can exit the book and get back home.

About Elizabeth Pantley

Elizabeth Pantley is the international bestselling author of The No-Cry Sleep Solution and twelve other books for parents, published in over twenty languages.

She simultaneously writes well-loved cozy mysteries: The Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic book series and the Magical Mystery Book Club series.

Elizabeth lives in the Pacific Northwest, the gorgeous inspiration for the setting in many of her books.

Author Links
Website: https://www.nocrysolution.com/books/
Newsletter Sign-up: https://www.nocrysolution.com/mailing-list/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DestinyFallsMysteryandMagic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destinyfallsmystery/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/elizabeth-pantley

Purchase Links

Amazon Links: US CA UK AU

a Rafflecopter giveaway

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

September 20 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

September 20 – Angel’s Guilty Pleasures – SPOTLIGHT

September 21 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST

September 21 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

September 22 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

September 22 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW

September 23 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

September 23 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

September 24 – Cozy Up With Kathy – CHARACTER GUEST POST

September 24 – Bigreadersite – REVIIEW

September 25 – CelticLady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

September 25 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR GUEST POST

September 26 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

September 27 – Socrates Book Reviews – REVIEW

September 28 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

September 28 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

September 29 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

September 30 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

October 1 – eBook Addicts – REVIEW

October 1 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

October 2 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

October 3 – Cassidy’s Bookshelves – CHARACTER GUEST POST

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!

Friday, September 29, 2023

Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presents: Joy to the Wool (Clear Creek Mysteries) by Rebecca McKinnon

Joy to the Wool (Clear Creek Mysteries)
by Rebecca McKinnon

About Joy to the Wool

Joy to the Wool (Clear Creek Mysteries)
Cozy Mystery
4th in Series
Independently Published (October 5, 2023)
Number of Pages: 254
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C7LT85KH

All dressed up for the holidays, Clear Creek looks like it’s right out of a storybook. But the decorations aren’t just for fun. The tiny Rocky Mountain town is hosting a Christmas Festival sure to be used as a pattern for years.

While Jemma is busy with the Cozy Tree — a place visitors can buy hand-knitted hats and scarves to donate to people in need — Granny is busy taking bets on which day of the event Jemma will find a body. But to everyone’s surprise, this time Granny’s the one who makes the discovery!

Choosing to put her relationship with Brandon first, Jemma agrees to steer clear of the investigation. But Granny’s determination to solve the crime lands Jemma the impossible job of keeping the spunky old lady out of trouble, and breaking and entering is just the beginning of their adventure.

When the Cozy Tree is vandalized, it becomes obvious the pair is making someone nervous. Can Jemma and Granny knit up the investigation before Santa climbs in his sleigh?

About Rebecca McKinnon

Rebecca McKinnon enjoys playing with her imaginary friends and introducing them to others through her writing. She dreams of living in the middle of nowhere but has been unable to find an acceptable location that wouldn’t require crossing an ocean.

Website/Social Media Links:

Website – https://rebeccamckinnon.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaMcKinnonAuthor

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/rebeccamckinnon_author/?hl=en

GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4993788.Rebecca_McKinnon

Purchase Link – Amazon

a Rafflecopter giveaway

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

September 26 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT

September 26 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

September 27 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

September 27 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

September 28 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT

September 28 – Cassidy’s Bookshelves – REVIEW

September 29 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

September 29 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW

September 30 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT

October 1 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

October 1 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

October 2 – Cozy Up WIth Kathy – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

October 3 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

October 4 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – AUTHOR GUEST POST

October 5 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Celebrate Lit Presents: Finding True North Author: Dianne Beck

About the Book

Book: Finding True North

Author: Dianne Beck

Genre: YA Fiction

Release Date: January 31, 2023

Finding True North

North Carolina Simon hates her name. As a fourteen-year-old girl growing up in the 1970s, she has a lot of challenges. People not only make fun of her name, but also scoff at her eccentric family. Dad’s a hoarder, Mom’s an unpredictable artist, and her older sister lives with an autism diagnosis. After a humiliating middle school event shatters her confidence as a singer, North determines to break free from the stigma surrounding her family.

As she starts high school, North tells people to call her Carol. Armed with a new name, she updates her hair and clothes, befriends a popular boy in hopes of joining his band, distances herself from her two longtime friends, and avoids being seen with her adoring and dependent sister. Everything seems to be going according to plan until her sister suddenly disappears.

Carol is forced to face the fact that fitting in and being popular have come at a cost, and that the sister she might lose could have the answer to what she’s been looking for all along.

Finding True North is a prequel to Sticks and Stones, but each can be read as stand-alone novels.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Dianne Beck spent much of her career teaching students ranging from Kindergarten through adult before achieving her dream of publishing her first novel, Sticks and Stones. She hopes young people and adults can find faith and strength in her stories. When not writing or reading a good book, she savors every moment possible with family and friends, and loves a good steaming cup of coffee or tea. Visit her author website at diannebeck.com.

More from Dianne

One of the things I love most about being an author of Christian fiction is showing readers how God is working in the lives of my characters, just like he’s working in each of our lives. While I hope readers see how my main characters are wrestling with and growing in faith, my side characters actually play a huge role. In both my novels I have a supporting character who is unique and often viewed as quirky or weak to the world around them. By showing how God loves, guides, and equips these characters, I hope to encourage anyone who has ever felt weak or out of place, which I think all of us have at some point. I also hope it reminds readers that God is often found in unexpected people and places.

In Finding True North, I spent a significant amount of time developing the character of Aria, who is main character North’s older sister. Aria is autistic, and during the 1970s, the time this book was set, autism wasn’t well understood. Because of this, many people don’t give Aria much of a chance, and miss out on all the depth and beauty she has to offer.

My inspiration for Aria came from two Bible verses: 1 Corinthians 1:27 (ESV), which says, “God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong,” along with “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone.” Philippians 4:4-7 (ESV). Aria may be the kind of character who would be looked down on by many in the world, but she is used powerfully by God. One of the ways she does is with her extreme joy and bold love of the Lord. These characteristics are what ultimately impact and shape North as the story moves forward.

If you enjoy Finding True North, check out my first novel, Sticks and Stones, and stay tuned for the Sticks and Stones sequel, currently in the works!

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, September 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 16

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 17

Cover Lover Book Review, September 18

Artistic Nobody, September 19

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 19

lakesidelivingsite, September 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 21

The Book Club Network, September 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 23

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 24

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, September 25

For Him and My Family, September 26

Girls in white dresses, September 27

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 28 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, September 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dianne is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/27de6/finding-true-north-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presents: Hanging by a Thread (A Sewing Studio Mystery) by Dorothy Howell

Hanging by a Thread (A Sewing Studio Mystery)
by Dorothy Howell

About Hanging by a Thread

Hanging by a Thread (A Sewing Studio Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Setting – Fictional Town of Hideaway Grove
Kensington Cozies (September 26, 2023)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 304 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496740424
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496740427
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BRF14464

The latest novel in a new crafting cozy series in the genre-leading Kensington Cozy Mystery program focusing on the members of a Sewing Studio.

Some of the independent shops in this sleepy town are barely hanging on financially—and that includes Sarah’s Sweets, Abbey’s aunt’s bakery. The shop’s advantage—aside from the deliciousness of its products—is the fact that it’s the only bakery in the area. But it looks like that’s about to change. The second wife of a wealthy businessman wants her own bakery—and money is no object.

When murder unravels the plans for the competing shop, Aunt Sarah is an immediate suspect—and Hideaway Grove’s merchants are on pins and needles about a big upcoming women’s conference, fearing the organization will cancel their booking because of the crime. Abbey’s doing her best to stay optimistic and stitch some custom tote bags for the attendees, but she’s also concerned with patching up Aunt Sarah’s good reputation. And when it comes to sorting through the possible motives of the victim’s family members and associates, she’s got a few tricks up her sleeve . . .

About Dorothy Howell

USA Today Bestselling author Dorothy Howell is the author of 49 novels. Her books have been translated into a dozen languages and sold worldwide. She writes the Sewing Studio mystery series, the Haley Randolph mystery series, and the Hollis Brannigan and Dana Mackenzie mystery series. Dorothy also writes historical romance novels under the pen name Judith Stacy. Dorothy lives in Los Angeles.

Web site: DorothyHowellNovels.com. Facebook: Dorothy Howell Novels X: – Dorothy Howell Instagram: Dorothy Howell Books GoodReads: Dorothy Howell

Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N – Kobo – Bookshop.org –

a Rafflecopter giveaway

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

September 26 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

September 26 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

September 26 – Kenyan Poet – SPOTLIGHT

September 27 – Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic – AUTHOR GUEST POST

September 27 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

September 28 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

September 28 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST

September 28 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

September 29 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

September 29 – Jane Reads – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

September 29 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

September 30 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST

September 30 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

October 1 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

October 1 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

October 2 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – CHARACTER GUEST POST

October 2 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

October 3 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

October 3 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

October 4 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

October 4 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

October 5 – Angel’s Guilty Pleasures – SPOTLIGHT

October 5 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!

The Teacher's Christmas Secret (Seven Amish Sisters #3) by Emma Miller

The Amish school brings them together

Will his secret break them apart?

When widowed schoolteacher Tobit Lapp is injured, he reluctantly agrees he needs Cora Koffman’s help. Cora’s still upset Tobit got the job at the Amish schoolhouse, but she agrees to teach his class till he’s able. As they work together on lessons, a surprising friendship blossoms between them, but Tobit’s heart is torn. He’s falling for Cora—yet his secret could ruin everything…

Amazon

About The Author

Emma Miller is a wife, mother and a grandmother who lives a quiet life in Delaware. She's the author of the Hannah's Daughter's series and is at work on her next Amish romance novel.

My Review

As this story begins Cora is upset with the new teacher, she wanted the job, but her district gave the job to Tobit, and now her new nephew says he is picking on him. Well, what I didn't see coming was her agreeing to teach for him, while he is laid up, with everything upon his approval.

What you really don't see coming is sparks between these two, but of course, things can't run smoothly, and there seems to be some heart break coming here. There are some long held secrets and lies, but can there be forgiveness.

You are on a journey for answers, but they might not be what you expect.

I am excited that there will be another book coming, Henry's story!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.

Lost and Found by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Trudy Yoder shares a passion for birding with Micah Weaver--and she has an even greater passion for Micah. Their friendship is finally turning romantic when Micah abruptly grows cold. Worse still, he wants to leave Stoney Ridge.

Micah Weaver thought he was over Trudy's older sister. A year and a half ago, Shelley had broken his heart when she ran away from Stoney Ridge to pursue a singing career in Nashville. Then, out of the blue, she's started to leave distressing phone messages for him.

When the bishop asks for volunteers to scout out a possible church relocation in Tennessee, Micah is the first to raise his hand. Despite scant details, he's confident he can find Shelley. After all, his reputation as a field guide is based on finding birds that don't want to be found.

What Micah doesn't know is that what you're looking for isn't always what you find.

Amazon

About The Author

Suzanne Woods Fisher loves stories worth telling about people worth remembering. With over a million copies of her book sold worldwide, this bestselling, award-winning author of more than 30 books is always on the lookout for the unsung hero with an untold story.

Readers are invited to stop by Suzanne's website at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com

My Review

What an appropriate title for this read, and although it does deal with a tough subject, I loved how it was finally dealt with.

Enjoyed how everything worked out to go to Tennessee, so many happenings really to make it happen, but you will still wonder if this is going to be the Old Order Amish's new community?

There are some sad events, and there are some of aren't able to see what is right in front of them, at least not until it may be to late.

I loved the bird updates at the end of each chapter, and have noticed in my own yard the changes, and the loss. Haven't see a Bobolink or Meadow Lark in years, and they used to be common. On the other hand have Grackles everyday, sometimes they are a bit to heavy for my small feeder!

I am hoping that there are more books in this series, I really enjoyed this read!

On Moonberry Lake by Holly Varni

Cora Matthews has long wondered why her mother stopped taking her to visit her grandparents' lodge in the small Northwoods Minnesota town of Moonberry Lake. Now, after burying her mother and breaking off her engagement just two weeks before her wedding, Cora has a chance to find out. Once there, she is stunned to learn that the old lodge is her inheritance--with a surprising condition attached. Maybe some time to regroup on the shores of a beautiful lake is just what Cora needs to figure out what's next for her.

But Cora's days on the lake are anything but relaxing. The only thing that's a bigger mess than her own life is the dilapidated building she's living in. Add a cantankerous handywoman, an angry neighbor, and an elderly woman who spends all her time talking to the "residents" in the cemetery and Cora's not sure she can stick it out. But if she can, she may find a love she never expected--from the most unexpected people imaginable. This homespun tale of new friendships, sweet romance, and ordinary miracles will have you wishing you could spend a summer (or a lifetime) on Moonberry Lake.

Amazon

About The Author

Holly Varni is a native Minnesotan of strong Norwegian descent, who was raised in the Lutheran Church that Garrison Keillor made a career depicting. Between the lutefisk, grumpy grandparents, and crazy neighbors who mowed their lawn wearing pajamas, the seed to becoming a storyteller was planted. Though she, her husband, and their three sons live along the Central Coast of California, her beloved Midwest roots continue to haunt everything she writes. She hosts the Moments from Moonberry Lake podcast where she shares more stories of her beloved characters. Learn more at www.hollyvarni.com.

My Review

Cora Matthews is reeling when she arrives a Moonberry Lake, and the building she received from her mother is a run down, almost uninhabitable lodge. Add to this is the colorful assortment of local residents, and this story will warm your heart.

You feel sorry for Cora as this story opens, she appears to be so broken, but as the read unfolds, gifts of friendship are sprinkled about, but will she open her heart to what is offered.

I loved this read, and the unusual people that are offered, and the response of difficult times and how they rally around those whom are having troubles.

From disasters, to a bit of sweet romance, to gifts of friendship and tea/coffee, you won't see what is around the corner!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

Amish Christmas Kinner (The Amish Mail Order Grooms) by Lenora Worth, Rachel J. Good , Kelly Long

This trio of heartwarming, inspirational Amish holiday stories, each connected to its bestselling author’s Amish romance series, captures the blessings of family, faith, and the magic and childlike joy of Christmas.

CHRISTMAS EVE BABY * Lenora Worth
It’s a Christmas Eve to remember when a laboring mother-to-be shows up at the King sisters’ Shadow Lake Inn amid a snowstorm. Midwife Sarah King and her three daughters go into action, while the men of the family search for the woman’s husband. And with faithful hearts and helping hands, this magical night may unite a brand-new family just in time to share a Christmas blessing.

BEST CHRISTMAS PROGRAM EVER * Rachel J. Good
On Emily Flaud’s second day of work at the Green Valley Farmer’s Market, two hungry children in tattered clothes snitch some cheese samples—and Emily’s heart. Her co-worker, Hosea King, is less beguiled. He is still grieving the loss of his wife and daughter two years before, especially as Christmas approaches. But when the children are in need of adoption, Emily longs to become their mother—in a prayer that includes Hosea . . .

LOVING LUKE * Kelly Long
Wanted: Amish Mail Order Groom. Must be excellent with kinner.Recently widowed,Grace Fisher must be practical. She has a general store to run and needs a gentle man to help raise her kinner. But when Luke King appears, Grace sees a scruffy man who looks far from husband material, while Luke sees a woman who deserves better than he. Yet with faith, each may gain the courage to see beneath the surface—and create a family for many Christmases to com.

Amazon

About The Authors

USA Today bestselling author Rachel J. Good grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for many of her Amish novels. Striving to be as authentic as possible, she spends time with her Amish friends, doing chores on their farm and attending family events.

Rachel loves to travel and visit many different Amish communities. In searching for the best Amish soft pretzels, she's visited many Amish markets, auctions, and mud sales. Because of her love of Amish food, she tries to include recipes in her books as often as possible. When she's not traveling, she spends time with family and writing.

In addition to her Amish novels, she's written more than 60 books, including children's educational books, adult nonfiction, and fiction for children and teens under several pen names. To find out more about Rachel and her books, you can sign up for her newsletter: http://bit.ly/1qwci4Q

Rachel enjoys meeting readers and speaks regularly at book events, schools, libraries, churches, book clubs, and conferences across the country. She also loves talking about Amish life, using authentic Amish clothes and goods, and/or doing coloring parties.

You can connect with Rachel on her website (http://www.racheljgood.com) or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/racheljgoodnovels).

Lenora Worth is an ACFW Honor Roll member. She writes inspirational fiction for Harlequin's Love Inspired and sweet romance for Tule Publishing. She also writes for Kensington Books. She helped launch the Rodeo Knights Western Romance imprint. Her LIS Body of Evidence made the NY Times Bestseller list and she is also a USA Today and Publishers Weekly Bestselling author. In 2016, she received a Romantic Times Pioneers of Fiction Award. Three of her books have been nominated for the ACFW Carol Award and she is an RWA RITA finalist. Lenora has written 80+ books and has an estimated 3 million books in print. She loves cheesecake, shoe shopping, walking on the beach and reading.

Kelly Long was born and raised in North Central Pennsylvania. There was an Amish hitching post at the small grocery store in her town. She loves to write Amish romance and is the author of novel, Sarah's Garden, the novella Amish Christmas Expanded Edition with some other great Amish authors, Amish Love with Beth Wiseman and Kathy Fuller, and Lilly's Wedding Quilt--the sequel to Sarah's Garden. She lives in Atlanta with her husband and children.

My Review

I really enjoyed these quick stories, and for some I have read the back stories, but there is a lot of information given, and you won't be lost.

From a snow storm and an impending birth of a new baby, and we get to see the true spirit of Christmas come alive and shared!

The second story shows the love of innocent little ones, and overcoming tremendous grief. This one will warm your heart, and in the end I wanted to continue on in their lives!

The third story features a mail order groom, and does touch on abuse. There is a side story of a delightful Amish man who wants a woman a bit older, and you get to enjoy his courting techniques.

These reads do feature children, and they pull you into each of the books!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.

An Amish Cinderella (The Amish of Apple Creek #3) by Shelley Shepard Gray

Set in the close-knit Amish community of Apple Creek, Ohio, this sweet Cinderella-inspired novel from the New York Times and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author is complete with a matchmaking pet rat, and will delight fans of heartwarming, wholesome fiction and readers of Charlotte Hubbard, Beverly Lewis, and Beth Wiseman.

Now that her friends are all marrying or moving away, Heart Beachy has started feeling lonely. Worse, everyone keeps asking when she’s going to find a man of her own. Don’t they realize Heart has her hands full at home with her widowed dad, too many chores, and a menagerie of needy, small animals? Besides, she doesn’t understand the fuss about marriage.

Newcomer Clayton Glick is utterly charmed by Heart—and completely confounded. He can’t figure out why this beautiful woman is as awkward as a teenager whenever he’s around, which is often now that he’s an apprentice to her blacksmith father. So Clayton starts assisting with Heart’s never-ending tasks, even helping her corral her unruly pets. How else can he court an adorably flustered woman who doesn’t know the first thing about courtship? Because courting is exactly what he intends . . .

Heart doesn’t know why her pulse hammers every time she sees Clayton. She only knows yielding to such emotions will mean trouble. . . . But maybe with a little faith—and the loss of a shoe—Clayton can convince her to join him on the road to happily ever after.

Amazon

About The Author

Shelley Shepard Gray is a NYT and USA Today bestselling author. She's published over a hundred novels and has over a million books in print. She currently lives in northern Ohio and writes full time.

Shelley lives just an hour from Holmes County, where many of her Amish-themed novels are set. She currently writes contemporary romance and Amish fiction for a variety of publishers. When not spending time with her family or writing, she can usually be found walking her two dachshunds on one of the many trails in the Cleveland area.

She also bakes a lot, loves coconut cream pie, and will hardly ever pull weeds, mow the yard, or drive in the snow.

Shelley also spends a lot of time on line! Please visit her website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com to find out her latest news or to sign up for her newsletter. Shelley can also be found on FaceBook, Instagram @shelley.s.gray, or on Twitter @ShelleySGray.

My Review

Shelley Shephard Gray is a go to author, I knew I would enjoy this book, and she didn't disappoint!

This is a story of healing, and remembering. We are also offered some sweet romance, and a cuddly rat. Yes, a pet rat named Spike, maybe, but I don't think so.

This is a delightful twist on the fairy tale Cinderella, an Amish twist, and for me it became a page turner. The characters here great, and love how Mary gives so much, as does sweet Heart/aka Hazel.

You don't want to miss this one!

I received this read through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.

Monday, September 25, 2023

Celebrate Lit Presents: Redemption in the Wilderness Author: Andrea Byrd

About the Book

Book: Redemption in the Wilderness

Author: Andrea Byrd

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 19, 2023

Two sisters alone on the Kentucky frontier…love is the last thing they expect to find.

After the death of their parents during the Hard Winter, Margaret and her sister have struggled to survive. Between her mother’s dying wish that Margaret protect her sister, and the nagging sensation that they are not alone, guilt and worry are her constant companions. And if someone is following them, is their watcher friend or foe?

Henry Donegal can’t afford roots, not with the pain and guilt of the life he’s left behind, or the memory of the drink that once threatened to consume him. But his solitary life as a long hunter in the wilds of Kentucky finds a new path when he happens upon a young woman digging a grave for her own mother. Unable to pull himself away when he realizes that she and her sister are on their own, he begins to provide anonymous aid. But when the women truly need him, can he risk leaving his solitary life behind to step in and fill the void?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Andrea Byrd is a Christian wife and mom located in rural Kentucky, who loves to spend time with her family in the great outdoors, one with nature. Often described as having been born outside her time, she has a deep affinity for an old-fashioned, natural lifestyle.

With a degree in Equine Health & Rehabilitation gathering dust and a full-time job tethering her to a desk eight hours a day, Andrea decided it was time to show both herself and her children that it is truly possible to make your dreams come true. Now with over 1,000 contemporary Christian romance novellas sold, Andrea is pursuing her passion of writing faith-filled romance woven with a thread of true history.

More from Andrea

One of my favorite aspects of being a historical fiction author is learning new tidbits of information with each novel I pen.

Not only have I always loved learning, but I also harbor a deep passion for novels that incorporate real places and events. In Redemption in the Wilderness, I was blessed with the opportunity to research the beginnings of Harrodsburg, KY. This town was founded in 1774 as Harrodstown by James Harrod. What began mainly as a civilian fort with the building of Fort Harrod has endured more than 200 years of Kentucky’s rich history. Tourists and locals alike can still visit a replica of Fort Harrod today. And, you, yourself, can visit the original fort in Redemption in the Wilderness.

Beyond historical places and events, I also always find myself on a search engine with the strangest little inquisitions. Such as… What plants are native to Kentucky? When do said plants bloom? And which can be used as a natural remedy for this particular ailment? With this novel, I found that feverfew, a native Kentucky wildflower, was so aptly named because early settlers used this native plant to reduce fever. I cannot wait for you to see what role it played for the characters in Redemption in the Wilderness.

Blog Stops

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 19

Holly’s Book Corner, September 19

Alena Mentink, September 20

Pause for Tales, September 20

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 21 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 22

For Him and My Family, September 22

Texas Book-aholic, September 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 25

lakesidelivingsite, September 26

Karen Baney Reviews, September 26

Bigreadersite, September 27

Connie’s History Classroom, September 28

Cover Lover Book Review, September 29

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, September 29

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 30 (Author Interview)

Avid Reader Nurse, September 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 1

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Andrea is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2813b/redemption-in-the-wilderness-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, September 24, 2023

Celebrate Lit Presents: Battered & Torn Author: Allison Pearl

About the Book

Book: Battered & Torn

Author: Allison Pearl

Genre: Faith-Based Romantic Suspense

Release Date: February 6, 2023

As just another staff member in the mansion of billionaire Archie Hamilton, Nora’s finally found a place to hide from her murderous family. But when the handsome bigshot asks her out on a date, she worries Archie’s interest—no matter how thrilling—will blow her cover and shoot up a flare for those hunting her. And if she can’t squash his crush, only God will be able to keep him out of danger.

When Archie turned in his scalpel to run the family business, life became too busy to go home and deal with his grief. But when he discovers a suspicious hire at his ancestral estate, he’s forced to confront the situation as well as his anger at God for taking not only his family, but his dreams. Despite his objections, his grandmother is determined to keep Nora on staff, but that isn’t going to stop him investigating her on his own—no matter how attractive he finds her. But the more he digs, the more questions he has.

Drawn to Nora again and again, Archie wonders if she’ll help lead him back to the truth or get him killed. Is trusting a beautiful stranger worth the risk to his family, his life, and his heart? And when Nora’s past catches up with them, will anyone be left alive?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Allison Pearl is a small-town girl who’s lived just about everywhere. She loves books, tea, chocolate, and watching old movies with her husband and furbabies. To keep in touch and get updates on new releases visit www.allison-pearl.com or follow her Facebook page ‘Books by Pearl’ at www.facebook.com/allisonnicolepearl/, on Twitter at @AllisonPearl5, and on Instagram at @allisonnicolepearl.

More from Allison

We’ve all fantasized about running away and starting over. Maybe it’s to some gem of a small town or a thrilling big city, but who hasn’t wondered what it would be like to leave our history, our anxieties, and our problems behind and trade them in for something fairytale-worthy and new? Nora didn’t just dream about starting over, she did. But did she run far enough? The nightmares that haunt her at night say otherwise, leading her to wonder Can we ever really start over or do our fears just lie in wait?

Nora’s written her own fairytale, but will her murderous family steal the happy ending? Find out the truth by getting your copy of BATTERED & TORN!