Author: vicklea

I love to read! I’m a retired teacher with a spouse of 45 years, three amazing children and nine wonderful grandchildren. I am blessed!

Just Read Publicity Tours: TERMINAL DANGER by Jerusha Agen

On By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book Review4 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Terminal Danger by Jerusha Agen, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Terminal Danger
Series: Guardians Unleashed #5
Author: Jerusha Agen
Publisher: SDG Words, LLC
Release Date: October 24, 2024
Genre: Christian romantic suspense

This woman and her K-9 are being hunted.

Exactly as she planned.

When a busload of schoolchildren disappears, Phoenix Gray knows the kidnapper is the unidentified serial killer she’s spent her life trying to catch. This time, she’ll find the killer and bring him to justice no matter what it takes. She and her Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency join the search for the hostages, but they aren’t the only ones who want the criminal captured.

Callum Ross, an FBI agent who specializes in catching serial criminals, is about to resign. But not until he finds one last culprit, the killer behind a famous twenty-year-old crime Callum vowed to solve.

Despite the FBI agent’s uncanny understanding of her psyche, Phoenix refuses to be distracted from her goal. When the serial killer turns into the cat instead of the mouse, Phoenix thinks she’s ready. But will she need the God she rejected to achieve the justice she’s given her life to obtain?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy Directly From the Author | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

My Thoughts

The story of Phoenix Gray is a compelling one, one which will break your heart but also mend it. The themes of revenge, justice, retribution, persistence and survival are prevalent in this novel that has multiple layers and a deep dive into the character of Phoenix. Up until this novel, Phoenix has been an enigma, suddenly appearing when she is needed and then disappearing just as quickly. Her faithful companion Dagian (Dag) is well-trained and just as intuitive as Phoenix. Her natural instincts are a necessary part of what makes Phoenix who she is: a strong and capable leader who never shows her own vulnerabilities. In this novel, Phoenix and Dag’s talents for tracking are put to the test when an evil man kidnaps an entire bus load of third graders and leads them deep into the forest. He is taunting Phoenix to find him because they have a dark history together, but the hunter becomes the hunted in some remarkably told twists. This story captivated my imagination as Phoenix and FBI agent Callum used everything that they knew about tracking and surviving in the wilderness to catch up to the kidnapper and to save the children before he begins to kill them. The danger continues to ramp up, with heart-pounding scenes of bravery; the suspense stays intense throughout the book and made it unputdownable. As I neared the conclusion, I raced through the pages and couldn’t believe what was happening, so I admit that I went back and read the last few chapters again. Unbelievable and totally satisfying conclusion to the PK-9 series! So much happens so quickly in this novel that readers should be warned to buckle up and expect the unexpected. The pace is at a breakneck speed, matching the urgency of the search teams to find the kidnapped innocents. The characters are realistically portrayed and developed so well that I felt the fear that the father Eli felt, the courage of the child Marnie and the determination of Phoenix all the way down to the soles of my shoes. This is a story that touched me deeply, with a heartfelt message of faith and trusting God for the hard things. It is also a memorable story that will stay in my heart and mind. This is undoubtedly one of the best books I have read this year and probably ever, so I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as part of her advance review team. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Christian Fiction, Intense Suspense, Rated PG

More Books in this Series

About the Author

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies.
Connect with Jerusha by visiting jerushaagen.com to find more of her thrilling, fear-fighting stories, follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Terminal Danger, a Terminal Danger mug, $25 Barnes and Noble gift card, Terminal Danger magnet, plus more swag!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 28, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 4, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Who Are We?

On By vickleaIn Scripture, YouVersion App1 Comment

Out of This World

For thousands of years, people have gathered around campfires and peered into the night’s sky, studying the stars.  Now, thanks to telescopes and satellites and advances in modern technology, we’ve uncovered more about God’s celestial creation than ever before: diverse planets, interstellar dust, mysterious black holes, and billions of other galaxies.  What we’ve discovered, however, is not new to God. It’s the very same heavens and the very same earth that He spoke into existence at the very beginning of time. And though we’ve only scratched the surface on what’s still to be discovered, the vastness of the heavens and the brilliance of its design beckons both humility and worship.  In Psalm 8, David wrote:  “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” ‭‭ Psalm ‭8:3-4‬ ‭NIV‬‬ The same God who hung the sun, moon, and stars in the sky also created us. He created you. It’s mystifying to think that He considers us His prized creations.  Like David, this should humble us and compel us to worship. Who are we, after all, to be loved, chosen, and redeemed—especially when we don’t deserve it? Who are we, when we consider the magnificence of our Creator, to be made in His image? Who are we that God is mindful of us? Who are we that He cares for the details of our lives? We are His people. His children. We belong to Him. So today, let’s trust in our creative, compassionate, and loving God. He is where we’ll put our confidence. He is where we’ll put our hope. (From the YouVersion Bible App Daily Devotional)

Just Read Publicity Tours: I’LL BE HOME

On By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book Review, JustRead Publicity Tour9 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for I’ll Be Home by Sara Davison, Darlene L. Turner, Helena Smrcek, and Melanie Stevenson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: I’ll Be Home
Authors: Sara Davison, Darlene L. Turner, Helena Smrcek, & Melanie Stevenson
Publisher: Independent (Fab Four Press)
Release Date: October 29, 2024
Genre: Contemporary Christmas anthology

With chaos and confusion all around them, can they find their way home this Christmas?

The people in these four stories are all searching for something—an escaped convict, a job promotion from a love interest, connection to a lost parent, answers across time.

Christmas should be a time of wonder and celebration, but the obstacles each faces seem insurmountable. Even, at times, life-threatening.

Perhaps they will find what they are seeking during this season of miracles and hope. Or maybe, with God’s help, they will discover that the longing of their hearts takes them to places—and people—they didn’t even know they’d been searching for.

I’ll Be Home is a collection of four stories of faith, hope, love, (and trains) that will warm your heart, encourage your soul, and draw you home this Christmas.

PURCHASE LINKS Goodreads |Amazon|Book Bub

My Thoughts

These four novellas all have the common theme of people trying to find where they are supposed to be and with whom, and sometimes even who they are supposed to be in life Mistletoe and Mayhem” in the Rockies definitely has a mystery vibe about it, as an escaped convict is possibly among the party goers at a new ranch retreat. “Love Across Time” is a dual timeline love story, with a romance that starts in WWII and then takes us into the present when the current occupants of the house find the love letters between this star-crossed couple. The story of Porsha in “Where My Heart Belongs” is told in an interesting fashion, with the narrator directly addressing the reader and including her audience in her story. A presentation gone wrong sends Porsha into the cold to escape and her encounter with Santa changes her life. Finally, “Just a Gilbert Blythe Kind of Girl” is set on the picturesque Prince Edward Island and includes very dramatic scenes as Lucy sets out to play the part of Anne of Green Gables, pursuing the same interests her deceased mother had. All four stories have a fast-paced plot with a believable conflict built into the story and charming, delightfully humorous characters. The romance is predictable but so enticing that it was entertaining to read the story and guess what would happen next in this veritable maze of mishaps around the holidays. I especially enjoyed the last story as Anne was a favorite character of one of my children and we spent many hours enjoying her books and series on television. The characters are quirky which make them memorable. And each story can be read as a standalone, although I did enjoy the theme of the holidays, romance and a little chaos just to make the tale true-to-life. Good, fast reads that entertained and got me into a holiday mood quickly!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the authors as part of a review team. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Rated G, Christian Fiction

About the Authors

Sara Davison is the author of The Night Guardians, The Rose Tattoo, two sparrows for a penny, and In the Shadows series, as well as the standalone, The Watcher. A finalist for more than a dozen national writing awards, including the Christy Award, Davison is a Holt Medallion, Cascade, and two-time Carol Award winner for romantic suspense. She lives in Ontario with her husband, Michael. Like every good Canadian, she loves coffee, hockey, poutine, and apologizing for no particular reason.
Connect with Sara by visiting saradavison.org to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning and a Publishers Weekly best-selling author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message.
Connect with Darlene by visiting darlenelturner.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Helena Smrcek is an award-winning author, screenwriter, public speaker and writing coach. She is known for her thrilling and heartwarming stories. Her career began as a high school freelancer, leading to three decades in publishing. She co-founded Write!Canada and The Word Guild and has graduated from multiple writing programs.
Connect with Helena by visiting helenasmrcek.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Melanie Stevenson is an award-winning author and lives in Ontario, Canada, surrounded by her husband and four children. She attended the University of Waterloo and obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts. Melanie’s first book, One More Tomorrow, was shortlisted in the Word Alive Press publishing contest out of over two hundred entries across North America and was published in 2019. In 2020, she won Best Romantic Fiction for One More Tomorrow and Best New Canadian Author at The Word Awards—Canada’s top Christian literary awards. Her mission is to create stories of excellence that impact hearts and lives. Paper, canvas, and dirt are her favorite blank pages.
Connect with Melanie by visiting melaniestevenson.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon card plus a paperback copy of I’ll Be Home!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 29, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 5, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

_____________________________________________________________________________

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

God Has You in the Palm of His Hand

On By vickleaIn Scripture, Song, YouVersion App3 Comments

www.bible.com/reading-plans/18910/day/3

We all know that life sometimes gets difficult, but God wants each of us to look to Him. We are not supposed to hold tightly to our possessions or the people we cherish. When we go before the Lord, our hands should be open, letting go of all that could hold us back from giving everything to God. He has each of us, holding us in the palm of His mighty hand, and we can rest assured of His love and that He will work to fulfill His purpose for us.

Shalom-Legacy Worship

He’s Got the WholWorld in His Hands

Get Near to God

On By vickleaIn Scripture, YouVersion AppLeave a comment

Today’s devotional was all about getting close to God and resting in His presence. I have always had a tendency to have my entire day planned out. From the time I wake up each morning, my mind is racing with the schedule for the day and how to get everything done. God is calling me to rest in His presence. It’s not in being busy that I will find Him; it is in the quiet moments that I spend resting in His presence. Recently, I have been spending what I consider some quality time with God each morning. I am doing a Bible study on prayers in the Bible. As I find a prayer in my reading, I am writing it down and really thinking about what the person was praying. I am also starting to intentionally memorize scripture verses again. I kept making the excuse that my brain will not allow me to remember verses, but I found that when I actually focus and try, that is not true. My goal is a verse per week. Not a lot, I know, but for me, it’s a good start. I am also finding myself to be eager to get to my Bible study each morning. The Bible didn’t change…I did! I want that time with God as much as I want a drink of water when I am thirsty. Some mornings with medical appointments are hectic, but I just cannot start my day without my God time. And it’s not a “hurry up and get it done so I can do other things” kind of time. The time with God is a time of peace and relaxation for me, a time of reflection, a real quiet time where I can talk to God and then listen for Him to talk to me. I want my time with the Lord to be a dedicated time just for us to talk like friends. He already knows my heart; I desire to know His and the only way to do that is to get close to Him.

Here is the devotional I did today that started me on this blog post today:

www.bible.com/reading-plans/18910/day/2

Isn’t this what we all desire…for God’s presence to go with us throughout the day and for His rest to be a part of our lives?

Open My Eyes to See God Clearly

On By vickleaIn Scripture, Song, YouVersion App2 Comments

This is from my devotional today on the YouVersion:

You Are My Beloved Child  

The Father says, “Before you were ever a thought, I knew every detail of your design. From the number of hairs on your head to the number of days in your life, I have made you for My pleasure and delight. More numerous than the sands on the shore, are My thoughts of love towards you. You are My beloved child, and I’m proud to call you Mine.”

You are a child of God! Many people have grown up in families with fathers that weren’t active, others have grown up with phenomenal fathers, or maybe fathers that weren’t present at all. This piece of our story often becomes the lens through which we see our heavenly Father.

How do you envision your Abba Father?

Allison Fowler says, “The heart is the lens through which we see God. If we refuse to forgive, our bitterness and resentment become the dirt that clouds our ability to see Him clearly.” So invite the Lord to sweep your heart of false beliefs of His character that may have formed from your upbringing or challenges you may have faced. Let the reality of His character settle deep within you: God’s character is the embodiment of perfection, kindness, and love; it is without blemish, flaw, or stain.

Take a few moments, close your eyes, and reflect on God’s stunning nature. Healing oil from heaven is flooding into your heart right now, removing cloudiness, and opening the eyes of your heart. Listen to your Father’s voice as He whispers truth into your spirit, and receive His lavish love that is swelling in His heart for you. The Father says, “You are My beloved child.”

My Thoughts

As I read the devotional today, I was reminded of how much love I felt from my father when I was young and how I felt as though he had abandoned me later in my life, when he turned to drugs. I am thankful that I have a Heavenly Father who has no hesitation about loving me, and He is with me all the time. There is nothing I can do to make God love me more or less. His love is always perfect, and just what I need.

Open the Eyes of My Heart-Paul Baloche

God Will Finish What He Starts

On By vickleaIn Scripture, YouVersion AppLeave a comment

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I start a project and then I get tired of doing it and I put it aside. I have every good intention to go back to the project at a different time, perhaps when my arthritis is not so bad or my eyes aren’t so tired, but the truth is that I don’t always finish what I start. I am so thankful that God always finishes what He starts. I am a work in progress, and He did not put to the side, saying that He will get back to me later and then forget about me. Not at all! God works on my daily to help me to be more like His Son. His plan for me is a good one and He methodically and purposefully is finishing what He started in me.

He Started It

When the Apostle Paul was locked in a Roman prison for telling people about Jesus, he sent a letter of hope to his friends back in Philippi. A portion of it said: “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1:6‬ ‭NLT‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Though Paul was writing to specific people in the first-century Church, his words are just as true for the global Church today.  Think about it: Who started this thing we call life? Who made this world and everything in it? Who fine-tuned the universe to actually make sense? Who put you here—at this specific time in history? Who handcrafted your body, your mind, your strengths, and your unique-to-you personality? Who began this good work? Before you were ever born, God already had you in mind. Before you could even walk or talk or have dreams for yourself, God already had a plan. Before you knew to look to Him or to follow Him or to worship Him, God was already at work—in you, around you, and through you.  Sometimes it feels like we’re just wasting time and taking up space, without real purpose. But—it turns out—God is intentional and He makes no mistakes. To top it off… God always finishes what He starts.  The story isn’t over. When Christ returns once and for all, the work of God through His people will finally be complete. Until then, let’s commit to God’s good work inside of us.  Let’s magnify Him in everything we do.  Let’s believe that He’ll finish what He has begun.

A Prayer for All of Us

On By vickleaIn prayer, Scripture3 Comments

“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”


‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬-‭21‬ ‭ESV‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/59/eph.3.14-21.ESV (Emphasis added by me)

I am doing a study of prayers in the Bible and this is one that the apostle Paul prayed. Even in his afflictions, imprisonment and troubles, he prayed for all the saints everywhere, for all generations. That’s us! I am praying this prayer for you today…no matter how busy your day is, don’t be too busy to pray.