I am a Christian, a retired teacher, a mother and a grandmother. I love to read and I love the Lord Jesus Christ! Unless otherwise specified ,all visual illustrations are from the YOU VERSION APP of the Bible.
Shaken by her parents’ divorce and discouraged by the growing chasm between herself and her serious boyfriend, Nikki Werner seeks solace at her uncle’s farm in a small Missouri hamlet. She’ll spend the summer there, picking up the pieces of her shattered present so she can plan a better future. But what awaits her at the ancestral farm is a past she barely knows.
Among her late grandmother’s belongings, Nikki finds an old notebook filled with handwritten German recipes and wise sayings pulled from the book of Proverbs. With each recipe she makes, she invites locals to the family table to hear their stories about the town’s history, her ancestors—and her estranged father.
What started as a cathartic way to connect to her heritage soon becomes the means through which she learns how the women before her endured—with the help of their cooking prowess. Nikki realizes how delicious streusel with a healthy dollop of faith can serve as a guide to heal wounds of the past.
My Thoughts
This book is like a primer on establishing relationships with the past and improving current ones. Nikki Werner flees to her Uncle Wes’s property in rural Missouri when her father’s leaving her mom breaks her heart, followed by a her boyfriend not being someone she can count on right now. At Uncle Wes’s farm, Nikki finds an old notebook that belonged to her grandmother and that contains handwritten recipes along with proverbs. As Nikki lovingly prepares the old recipes, she learns to put heart into her cooking as she thinks about all of the challenges in life that she is now facing. She meets new people, makes new friends and gets insight into what she is facing and how to face it. During the reading of this book, I was challenged to think about my own past and its effect on my present and apply God’s truth to what has happened and is happening. This is a book that teaches lessons about redemption, forgiveness, looking for the path God wants for you and not accepting less than God’s peace and His best in your life. I loved all of the characters, especially Aunt Emma who dispensed wisdom as well as unconditional love. The plot was well-paced and totally engrossing as Nikki invites one person after another and learns a lot about her past from each of them, all while pondering in her mind about what to do about her father and her boyfriend. The recipes are fascinating, too, making me want to try a few of them like the pancakes and the streusel. I am impressed with the author’s story within a story and the depth of her research. All in all, this is a wonderful book with a story clamoring to be read again and again and enjoyed by book clubs as they discuss the recipes, the importance of connection to the past and forgiving even when it’s hard. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell, the publisher. 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 Advertisng.”
Rated G: clean Christian fiction
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sara Brunsvold creates stories that speak hope, truth, and life. Influenced by humble women of God who find His fingerprints in the everyday, she does the same in her life and her storytelling. Sara’s recognitions include the 2020 ACFW Genesis Award for Contemporary Fiction. She lives with her family in Kansas City, where she can often be spotted writing at a park or library.
When Eliza’s life is threatened, she turns to a handsome veteran for help. I left everything I’d ever known behind. And that decision may cost me my life. The moving truck hadn’t even been unpacked when my fresh start went up in flames. A frightening letter left in my mailbox and signed Always Yours sends me running to the only man in town who can help me. Driven by his protective nature and a mission he believes comes from God, ex-Army Ranger Lance Knight agrees, despite the fact that I’ve made it no secret I want nothing to do with him–or anyone for that matter.
The longer we’re together, the more I begin to realize that Lance is more than I gave him credit for. Something that troubles me nearly as much as the fact that an unknown man seems to have already claimed me as his. Trouble is, my admirer has a jealous side, and it’s not long before Lance is pulled into the crosshairs right alongside me… Get your copy now and be ready to stay up all night! Pages of Promise is a swoon-worthy, faith-based, suspenseful romance between a jaded woman and the hero determined to protect not just her body…but her heart.
This is Christian fiction at its best with faith woven throughout the story. The main characters are Lance Knight, the owner of a protection and security agency and Eliza who needs protection in the worst way. Eliza has fled to Hope Springs after divorcing her abusive and philandering husband Erik and is planning on a completely fresh start on the east coast. Unfortunately, she has a stalker who is determined to terrorize her and get rid of anyone who stands in the way of his having her for his own. The pace is fast with action that doesn’t let up. There are a few clues as to the identity of the stalker but not enough to spoil the story, and I was not able to guess the truth and its ramifications for Eliza and Lance. The characters are well-rounded, with flaws that make them more relatable. All of the town’s characters are lovable and make the small town a place that seems hospitable and welcoming, even to a total stranger like Eliza. I enjoyed how the town came together to help Eliza and support her when she needed it. The secondary characters like Doc were important to the tale and the setting made the story seem more realistic, adding a well described and inviting location in the midst of the danger that was ever present. This is the first book I have read by this author and I enjoyed it so much that I plan to read the other books in the series when they are released. This book can be read and thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone as that is how I read it.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Just Read. 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
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
After spending seven years in the Army, Jessica Ashley set out to write novels that would transport readers to new worlds and help them escape reality with messages of underdogs and swoon-worthy romance. After eight years of a successful writing career underneath two pen names, she felt her faith pulling her in a new direction. Now, she writes sweet romance with messages of faith, hope, and the importance of trusting our hearts and the word of God. Her debut novel, Pages of Promise, is set to release in February 2024.
She resides in Texas with her husband of twelve years, their three kids, a flock of chickens, an orange cat who thinks he runs the house, and three dogs who don’t realize just how big they are. Connect with Jessica by visiting authorjessicaashley.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 29, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 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 only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Deadly Mountain Escape by Mary Alford, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Deadly Mountain Escape Author: Mary Alford Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense Release Date: January 23, 2024 Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Can this officer stop a trafficking ring?
Or will deadly criminals stop her first?
A search for a missing young woman becomes a nightmare for K-9 deputy Charlotte Walker when she stumbles on a trafficking ring and is captured. Death seems certain until she’s rescued by rancher Jonas Knowles. Together, they take shelter in the Amish community he left behind. But they can’t hide forever—not when the criminals are still after them and countless girls are at risk…
Along with her trained canine companion Annie, Charlotte Walker makes a formidable and determined deputy when faced with crime. What she discovers in trying to locate a missing young woman is a trafficking ring that endangers her entire community. She also finds help in Jonas Knowles, a young man who left the Amish community and lives alone on a ranch near where the trafficking center seems to be. Jonas is dedicated to helping Charlotte find a group of missing girls and bring the traffickers to justice. This book is non-stop action, plenty of hair-raising scenes as Charlotte and Jonas face danger again and again, from the winter weather, the traffickers and unknown assailants. The plot is compelling and relevant with intense, page-turning twists. The characters are believable and fascinating with complicated backstories and personalities. The entire book was an enjoyable and quick read that I highly recommend. Mary Alford knows how to capture her readers in the story and make them sit on the edge of their seat as they wait for the heroes to overcome evil. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Book Funnel. 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.”
Clean Love Inspired Fiction
About the Author
Mary Alford is a USA Today bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can’t put down. Her titles have been finalists for several awards, including the Daphne Du Maurier, the Beverly, the Maggie, and the Selah. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog.
Connect with Mary by visiting maryalford.net to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.
(1) winner will win a copy of Deadly Mountain Escape & a $50 Amazon gift card!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 30, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 6, 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 for a print copy, ebook if outside US. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.
A humorous, heartwarming tale of love, loss, and the power of community Fair Meadows Retirement Community might as well be a country club for most of the retirees enjoying the pool, golf course, and book clubs. But for the caregivers whose family members reside upstairs in the special Memory Care Unit, vacation is over. Comforting these caregivers is exactly why the Woolgatherers group has formed. They make prayer shawls to support those affected by the heartbreaking reality of not being recognized by a loved one-people like Sam Talbot, who has been barely existing since his wife moved into Memory Care. He finds that his life has lost all color and meaning without her. That’s something the Woolgatherers can’t bear to see. Flirtatious Jenny Alderman, cranky crocheter Edna O’Brian, kind Rose Harker, and the rest of the prayer shawl group weave him into the circle. Sam has no idea how he got tangled up with them, and he’s no good at knitting. But when one member talks him into taking up his wife’s old crochet hooks, he discovers that this one small gesture might just have the power to heal his life—or even save it. Full of Sharon Mondragon’s characteristic humor and heart, this book wrestles with the loneliness of being the forgotten spouse of a dementia patient, moving past the fear that the spouses often face into the love and compassion that can make all the difference.
This novel is so much more than a great and entertaining story! It is a primer on how to really see people and how to touch the lives of others with prayer and prayer shawls. The plot is about the Woolgathering Castoffs who meet twice a week at their nursing home in order to knit or crochet their projects together. Each project is a prayer shawl for a person whose live has been affected by “Old-Timer’s Disease.” As the ladies and one gentleman gather together, they share their expertise with the craft and their life experiences with one another as well as with visitors who come to see their loved ones. The story was heartbreaking at times as some of the characters were rebuffed by their loved ones who had no memory of them at all. But is was also filled with hope as the group joined forces to help those feeling rejected and invisible. I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought possible since I had never read a book by this author before. This is an extraordinary look at the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s and the special love it takes to be committed to the person suffering from this disease. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, all of whom were portrayed realistically with flaws and many of whom needed to get in touch with God again. Although it is hard to choose just one, I think my favorite character was Edna, a woman who is a resident with a heart full of hurt who holds her wounds tightly tucked inside but who faithfully attends the meetings and teaches others to crochet. The plot moved along at the perfect pace for the story being told, one of redemption and God’s love as well as the love and forgiveness of others, but especially one of hope in what seems like hopeless circumstances. This novel rates as one of the best and most faith-filled books I have ever read and its simple truths and lovingkindness of the characters will long stay with me as a practice we could all exhibit more often. The author will be added to my list of “must read” authors as the lessons I learned from this book are priceless and the memories of the wonderful character development amazed me. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this boo from the publisher via Netgalley. 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, Highly Recommend for All Readers
This is the second book in the Purls and Prayers Series. The first book, if you like to read books in order, is pictured below along with the purchase link. Enjoy!
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Their Inseparable Bond Series: K-9 Companions Author: Jill Weatherholt Publisher: Love Inspired Release Date: January 23, 2024 Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance They’re a mismatched family… But their hearts line up just right Training service dogs is single dad Jake Beckett’s calling. He’s determined to train rambunctious puppy Callie to help his ailing friend Myrna live independently with her growing blindness. Myrna’s granddaughter, Olivia Hart, isn’t easily convinced, but Jake, his twins and Callie are an incredibly persuasive team. If Olivia agrees to give Callie a chance, will working with Jake risk her lifelong dreams? From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Jill Weatherholt is an author of sweet, emotional, small-town romance novels that guarantee a happy ending. She’s sold over half a dozen sweet romance short stories to Woman’s World Magazine. Raised in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., she now resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, but her heart belongs to Virginia. She holds a degree in Psychology from George Mason University and Paralegal Studies Certification from Duke University. She shares her life with her real-life hero and number one supporter. Their relationship grew on the golf course, and now they have one in their backyard. Jill believes in enjoying every moment of this journey because God has everything under control. Connect with Jill by visiting jillweatherholt.com to follow her on social media and sign up for
My Thoughts
This is a sweet and clean love story of two people who just can’t seem to mesh since their lives are so totally different and separated by distance. Dr. Olivia Hart visits her grandmother Myrna, with the intention of taking Myrna to Miami to live with her since her grandmother’s eyesight is failing. Jake Beckett, a service dog trainer and a single father of twins, has a different plan for Myrna. He wants to train rambunctious puppy Callie to help her stay in her home in the small folksy tale of Bluebell, Colorado. The characters are very realistic, expressing the same kinds of feelings I would have in the same situations. The progression of the romance was inviting and sparkling with a growing attraction between not only Jake and Olivia but also between Olivia and the twins and Olivia and Callie. I really enjoyed getting to know Kayla and Kyle, the motherless twins who are vulnerable and intelligent and who also want to be accepted by their peers. I liked the comfortable setting in Myrna’s home and could almost smell her cookies baking. This is a warm romance with well-developed and lovable characters that totally appealed to my need to read a light, quick romance that completely engrossed me in its story. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Just Read. 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.”
Tour Giveaway
(2) winners will win a print copy of Their Inseparable Bond and a $25 gift card.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 22, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 29, 2024. Winner 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.
Twenty years ago, several people were murdered in Des Moines, and the only evidence left behind was a snowman ornament hanging ominously on a tree in the victims’ front lawns. With a suspect behind bars, the killings have come to an end–or so everyone thought. But now crimes with a similar MO are happening in a small Iowa town, and a local detective believes the killer is back and ready to strike again.
With little time left on the clock before they have another murder on their hands, private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair must work alongside Tony’s detective father to find evidence that will uncover an evil that has survived far too long. As the danger mounts and the suspect closes in, it will take all they have to catch a killer–before he catches one of them.
Can this officer stop a trafficking ring? Or will deadly criminals stop her first? A search for a missing young woman becomes a nightmare for K-9 deputy Charlotte Walker when she stumbles on a trafficking ring and is captured. Death seems certain until she’s rescued by rancher Jonas Knowles. Together, they take shelter in the Amish community he left behind. But they can’t hide forever–not when the criminals are still after them and countless girls are at risk… From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
Seeking refuge from danger… with threats at every turn When her daughter is the only witness able to identify a group of bank robbers, single mom Penny Jackson knows their lives are in danger. These men will do anything to keep Missy quiet–permanently. Escaping to a small Texas town was supposed to be safe, but when the criminals track them down, police chief Caleb Harmon becomes their only hope for survival… From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith. Cowboy Protectors Book 1: Kidnapped in Texas Book 2: Texas Ranch Target Book 3: Dangerous Texas Hideout
I reviewed each of these books and give all of them five stars and a big thumbs up. They are clean Christian fiction and ready to be enjoyed by all readers TOMORROW!
With much appreciation to Harlequin, Bethany House Publishersand Netgalley for the advanced copies to read and review!
Detective James Cross has been honorably discharged from the Army Criminal Investigation Division due to wounds sustained when an IED blew up near him. Now with the Lake City Police Department, he’s rooming with this good buddy and partner, Cole, while he figures out his family dynamics.
Physician Assistant Lainie Jackson is eighteen months out from an attempted murder perpetrated by her ex, which ended when she managed to grab the weapon and shoot him. When he appears to have survived and is back to finish the job he started, Lainie insists it’s not possible. But someone keeps trying to kill her, and she keeps seeing his face.
Together, Lainie and James must work together to find out who, exactly, is after her and why he wants her dead. And failure is not an option.
My Thoughts
The first book in a new series by one of my favorite authors is always exciting for me, and this new book by Lynette Eason exceeded all of my expectations. With a fast pace and heart-stopping action, this book held me captive from beginning to end. The story of Lainie Jackson and her doubts about whether she is hallucinating or not made me really want to know what was going on her life. Although she is certain that Adam died, why does she keep seeing him at various places around the hospital? And if Adam is not stalking her, then who is determined to harm her? Lainie enlists the help of an old friend James Cross, currently a police detective who is ready to do whatever he needs to do to keep Lainie safe. The pace of this book is like a bullet train rocketing out of the station and it never lets up. The plot is compellingly realistic and terrifying at times. I enjoyed getting to know the people in Lake City and how they were so willing to help and support each other. All of the characters were dynamic, original and believable. This is an intriguing and intense book, with a clever edginess that kept me glued to the pages. The multi-layered story that includes PTSD and some other well-researched topics was complex, crackling with tension and so well crafted tht I had no idea how long past my bedtime I was reading every night. The chemistry between the characters gave the book emotional depth and the suspense along with the red herrings made this book unforgettable and unputdownable. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this bok from Revell via Netgalley. 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 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Clean Christian Fiction
About the Author
Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous awares including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll and more. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network. Lynette can be found online at www.lynetteeason.com and www.facebook.com/lynette.eason and @lynetteeason on Twitter.
Meet the Author
Lynette is going on tour for this book! Where is Lynette! Check out this website and find out more details:
Book Tour 2024 Jan 11 – Pawley’s Island, SC – Litchfield Books – 11:00-1:00 Jan 23 – Cumming GA – Heavenly Dove Book store – 11:00-12:30 Jan 23 – Claxton, GA – Evans County Public Library – 5:30PM Jan 24 – Brunswick, GA/Savannah, GA – TBD Jan 25 – Ocala, FL – Gabriel Christian Bookstore – 12:00-2:00 Jan 27 – Bay-Minette, AL – Bay Minette Public Library – 11:00 – 1:00 Jan – 28 – Baton Rouge, LA – Barnes & Noble (2590 Citiplace Ct, Baton Rouge, LA 70808) – 2:00-4:00 Jan 29 – Dallas, TX – Logos – 4:00-6:00 Jan 31 – Yukon, OK – Mardel Christian Bookstore (Garth Brooks Blvd) – 4:00-6:00 Feb 1 – Tulsa, OK – Mardel Christian Bookstore (3132 E. 51st St. S. Suite A Tulsa, OK 74105) – 6:00-8:00 Feb 2 – Springfield, MO – CPO Redeemed Bookstore – 11:00-1:00 – with Kate Angelo Feb 3 – Kansas City, MO – Mardel -7102 W 119th St, Overland Park, KS 66213 – 12:00-2:00 Feb 5 – Farmington, MO – Farmington Public Library – 11:00-1:00 with Deborah Raney Feb 7 – Nashville, TN – Logos store – 11:00-1:00 Feb 8 – Somerset, KY – Heritage Christian Bookstore – 12:00-3:00 Feb 10 – Knoxville, TN – Cedar Springs Christian Store – 10:00-12:00 Feb 10 – Morristown, TN – Morristown Hamblen library – 2:00-3:30 Feb 12 – Charleston, SC – Christian Product Expo – Embassy Suites – 5055 International Boulevard, North Charleston, SC 29418 – Time TBD Feb 16 – Spartanburg, SC – Barnes & Noble – 1489 W.O. Ezell Blvd. Spartanburg, SC 29301 – 4:00-6:00 – with Lynn Blackburn Feb 18 – Hillsborough, NC – Orange County Library – 12:00-3:00
With a million thanks to Revell for including me on this book tour and to Lynette Eason for allowing me to be on her launch team! This book is one of the best ever! Get it today!
There’s only one thing more dangerous than family secrets.
Since her police-officer husband Eric’s mysterious murder, Carly Harris has been struggling to support herself and their infant son. Her career as an antique dealer isn’t sustainable, nor is her dream of becoming a novelist. So when her grandmother proposes she and her two sisters restore the family’s large Beaufort home and turn it into a bed-and-breakfast, she immediately gets to work clearing out the house. In the process, she uncovers a family secret that Eric kept hidden. And an heirloom that the wrong person wouldn’t hesitate to kill for.
Homicide detective Lucas Bennett isn’t his neighbor’s biggest fan, not since she broke his brother’s heart years ago. But when Carly turns to Lucas for help, believing she’s found a lost Fabergé egg that would be worth millions and that could put her family’s lives in danger, he can’t help but get involved. Soon, they’re entangled in a mystery with threads that lead all the way to the Russian mafia. Lucas has gotten in deep, and while he trusts his ability to keep Carly and her family safe, he begins to realize he’s vulnerable to an unexpected kind of danger. And he’s helpless to stop the freefall. As they continue working closely together, Carly and Lucas realize they may have found something more precious than gold. Yet it’s only a matter of time before Carly—or, worse, someone she loves—gets hurt.
My Thoughts
This book was amazing in every way! It’s a propulsive thriller along with a twisted mystery and a family drama that is expertly woven into the story of a missing Faberge egg. Carly’s husband was killed in a home invasion and she is left to raise their son Noah alone. Her grandmother has a plan to turn her large mansion into a bed and breakfast, something that will support Carly and Noah long after she is gone. In perusing the contents of the attic, Carly makes a remarkable discovery that will change the entire family’s life, if they can survive it, that is. I really enjoyed the characterization; all of the characters were well-rounded and dynamic. Even the bad guys were so well portrayed that I really hated them and their nefarious and deadly deeds. The plot is complicated with family issues, a missing twin and treasures that need to be discovered and protected. The complicated plot was written brilliantly with a sense of intense and edgy suspense that kept me totally engrossed in the story. I really enjoyed getting to know Carly and how giving and loving she was, in spite of how people took advantage of her. I also liked Lucas, the swoonworthy neighbor who doesn’t want to have any kind of relationship outside of protecting Carly and her family. Add to all of this the Russian mob, a swindling family member and so much more! This is a fast-moving book that is captivating, multi-layered and insightful into personalities of the characters and their motivations. I loved this book so much that I was sad when it ended…I just wanted more of the remarkable Tucker family and their head-spinning history. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. 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 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Clean Christian Fiction with intense suspense
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Best-selling romantic suspense author Colleen Coble’s novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, the ACFW Carol Award, the Romance Writers of America RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has over 5 million books in print and her books have been on the USAToday bestseller list, the ECPA, CBA, Publishers Weekly, and Amazon bestseller lists. She writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana. Visit her website at www.colleencoble.com.
With heartfelt gratitude to Thomas Nelson Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC to read and review. This is one of the best books that I have ever read! And definitely one of my top five books for the year!
Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Marine’s Deadly Reunion by Loretta Eidson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
About the Book
Title: The Marine’s Deadly Reunion Series: The Protectors Author: Loretta Eidson Publisher: Inspirational The Protectors Collection (Love Inspired) Release Date: December 26, 2023 Genre: Christian romantic suspense
To keep a child safe
They must outrun a killer…
When Sergeant Daria Gordon saves US Marine Jake Fisher and his baby niece from an attacker, she instantly puts a target on her own back. Someone murdered Jake’s sister and now they want Jake and Daria dead. To survive, Jake and Daria must discover this ruthless killer’s identity. But can they uncover the truth and keep the baby safe…before the killer finds them?
The story is so real that my heart was pounding from the first scene in which the cute little toddler was endangered. Police Sergeant Daria Gordon and US Marine Jake Fisher have to combine forces to keep little Emma safe and to find out who is targeting them. From one threat to another, these two are kept busy trying to keep themselves and the baby safe. The entire story was like riding a toboggan downhill after a fresh snowfall. I didn’t know where I was going to end up, but I surely enjoyed the ride! The characters were an original breath of fresh air, with the heroic marine taking second chair to the leadership of determined and gritty Daria. She establishes early in the story that she is the one in authority so he has to follow her lead. Together, they manage to make an invincible and strong team of protectors for Emma. There is a lot of deceit and a complex yarn of a story to unravel in order to find out why Emma is being targeted, and the author does a masterful job of throwing out the line and reeling me in. I was engrossed in the story, the characters and the setting. Small town and big crimes? Count me in! This book has all of the elements that I love in romantic suspense: drama, mystery, family, faith and romance. The quick pace is a bonus, but I must say that I was sorry to see the story end because I fell in love with the characters and their bold defense of each other. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. 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 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Clean Christian Fiction
About the Author
Award-winning author Loretta Eidson lives by the motto ‘never a dull moment,’ especially with her four children, thirteen grandchildren, and four great-grands. Her love of reading began during the required library time in middle school, where she devoured Phyllis Whitney’s mystery novels before she moved on to suspense author Frank Peretti. She left her eighteen-year administrative assistant position at her church to pursue the dream of writing inspirational romantic suspense. She has multiple short stories in anthologies, but her heart is writing romantic suspense. She believes in the power of prayer and loves putting her hero and heroine in realistic predicaments where they must trust God to pull them through. Connect with Loretta by visiting lorettaeidson.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.
Questions and Answers with the Author
1) What kind of research did you do for this book? What was the most interesting (or most frightening) thing you learned in the research you did for this book?
While out of town on vacation earlier this year, I talked to a police officer in a small mountain town and asked about protocol within the department. He reassured me titles for officers are mostly the same for small police departments and big cities.
The most interesting part of this research was driving through the mountains, taking pictures of old barns, mountain roads, restaurant designs, etc.
2) What was your favorite part of writing this book/series?
My favorite part of writing this book was writing the dialogue between Jake and Daria. Since both come from places of authority, they butt heads multiple times before they finally come to an agreement.
Jake, being the tough marine and Daria, being the authority in town, must find common ground as they work together to save baby Emma. I loved writing about Jake’s interaction with the baby. He knows nothing about caring for a little one and must shift his ways of thinking as an adult to deciphering what Emma needs.
3) Did anything in the story end up surprising you or changing the trajectory?
The surprising part of this story was my villain. I’ll not disclose inside information, but the villain shows up several times throughout the story. At one point I used a red herring, but the more I wrote, the more the story took a shift, which surprised me, and worked out better than I’d imagined.
4) When and how did you know that you wanted to be an author?
About 12-13 years ago, I listened to multiple stories of hopelessness, sorrow, and doubts from those in my church. The desire to share Christ with others in a non-threatening way welled up within me. Writing inspirational storiesseemed the perfect direction to take. Of course, romantic suspense was my favorite genre, so that’s what I chose, inspirational romantic suspense.
5) What is your writing process like?
I love to get up in the mornings, have my coffee/breakfast, read my devotion for the day, and dive into writing. It doesn’t always work out the way I plan, but since I’m a morning person, that’s the time of day I prefer. Of course, I’m a little on the OCD side, so I like to have my house in order, laundry done, and dishes washed before I bury myself in writing. In that case, I will do what I can before going to bed at night and the next morning, promptly put things away as I’m preparing for my day.
6) What would be your advice to new authors?
My advice to new authors is to keep pursuing your dreams/calling. Though you spend countless hours preparing a proposal and a rejection comes after months of waiting, allow yourself a moment to process what just happened, then pick up and start again.
As far as for aspiring writers, don’t give up. It takes persistence, dedication, and a willingness to learn the ins and outs of the publishing industry, reading guidelines, researching, etc., to reach for your dreams.
7) If you could have a luncheon with a group of authors, whom would you invite and why?
Oh goodness! How many am I allowed to name here? I would invite DiAnn Mills, Jessica Patch, Patricia Bradley, Lynette Eason, Dana R Lynn, Virginia Vaughan, Darlene L Turner, Sami Abrams, Dana Mentink! Should I go on? All of these authors are fun to hang out with, laugh with, and talk about writing stuff.
8) What is your favorite thing to do when you are not writing or reading a book?
I love to binge watch suspenseful series on Netflix or watch unsolved mysteries. Of course, I do like shopping, eating out, and hanging out with family and friends.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 18, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 25, 2023. 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.
Almost two years after Lilly Kurtz first traveled to Pinecraft, Florida, with friends, she’s decided to make a fresh start there. She’s ready to be new-and-improved Lilly, a Lilly without a past, a Lilly with no secrets. At first, everything goes well. She gets a job, her coworkers feel like family, and she enjoys reconnecting with her friends. But it turns out the past is reluctant to be left behind.
When Lilly meets hardworking farmer Eddie Byler, she can’t get him off of her mind. But then she discovers that Eddie actually lives just a few miles from her hometown in Ohio. Lilly knows that he’s not going to like it when he finds out what secrets she’s been running from. And she knows she could never follow the man she’s falling in love with back to a place where she’s never felt accepted.
Will Lilly have to give up on love in order to find peace? Or could it be that love is actually the solution to all of her problems?
My Thoughts
Another visit to the Amish in Pinecraft is just what I needed to get me out of a reading funk! Lilly Kurtz goes to Pinecraft, carrying a baggage of secrets that she left behind in Ohio, but determined to start her life again on the beaches of Pinecraft. There she meets Eddie Byler, a hard working farmer from the area that she left behind. Although the two are attracted to each other, both have trouble developing relationships because they don’t want to be open with each other. The way the romance progresses is so realistic and heart-warming, with some false starts and several stops before it moved along. The characters are charming, witty and kind. My favorite characters was Eddie’s grandmother, an elderly lady with a lot of wisdom and one who wants to live the end of her life on her own terms. Independent and sassy, she added a lot of humor to the story. I enjoyed the pace of the plot as it was just right for the rhythm of the courtship that was just getting started, but my favorite part of the book was getting to read about characters that I had gotten to know in previous Pinecraft books and how they were thriving together. This book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend that readers enjoy the entire series because each book is uplifting and faith-filled. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. 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 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Rated G, clean Christian Fiction
About the Author
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray writes Amish and Inspirational romances for Simon & Schuster, and Kensington, Harlequin, and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing. With over a million books in print, and translated into more than a dozen languages, her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists.
Shelley has been featured in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations. Publishers Weeklycalls her Walnut Creek series “A slow-burning, enjoyable romance… Embedded in this quaint story is a poignant message about the importance of community, compassion, and doing what’s right rather than what’s easy.”
Shelley has hosted several well-attended ‘Girlfriend Getaways’ for Amish reading fans. Her most recent Girlfriend Getaway, hosted with bestselling novelists Amy Clipston and Suzanne Woods Fisher in Sugarcreek, Ohio, was filmed by BuzzFeed and highlighted on NetFlix’s Follow Thisepisode on the popularity of Amish fiction.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned her bachelor’s degree in English literature and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She now lives in southern Colorado near her grown children, walks her dachshunds, bakes too much, and writes full time.
Vickie's Book Nook and Meditation Corner 