Return to Christmas Falls Blast
10/23/2017
   
 Homecoming in Christmas Falls by Ciara Knight
Eight years after fleeing Christmas Falls because of a high school prank gone wrong, Ashley Brooks receives a mysterious letter from her mentor asking her to come home. She arrives to face all she left behind—her family, her friends, and the rich boy she’d loved who would never date the girl from the wrong side of town. Brent Donnelly, high school jock, brainiac, and dutiful son did everything right until the day Ashley returns to ChristmasFalls. With one look at the girl who got away he questions all his life choices, including following in his father’s footsteps in the family business. Faced with a potentially devastating decline of tourism in their hometown, Brent and Ashley must work together to save the magic of their town, but when Ashley discovers he still has feelings for her best friend she must finally face the real reason she left Christmas Falls—to try to heal her broken heart.
 Honeymoon for One in Christmas Falls by Jennifer Peel
Is there room for two on this honeymoon for one? Piper Wyatt’s Christmas wish is to get promoted to manager at Blackstock Hotel and Resort. Not only does the promotion mean more money, but it means more time with her son and proof that she’s not such a disappointment after all. Jace Petersen, successful owner of a national chain of sporting goods stores, finds himself alone and miserable on what should have been his honeymoon. That is until he literally falls onto the lovely Piper Wyatt. He’s intrigued with this woman who can fix a car in high heels. Too bad for him, he makes a horrible first impression, and Piper’s not allowed to mingle with the guests. While Piper tries her best to steer clear of Jace during his stay, she can’t help but notice he’s not the man from their first meeting. But is he worth risking her promotion? Or is Jace right, Piper deserves more than she ever thought possible for herself? Find out in this charming Christmas tale about finding love in the most unexpected place, a honeymoon.
 Once Again in Christmas Falls by Becky Monson
In one day, London Walsh finds out her ex is going to be her boss and that her parents are getting a divorce—and they want her to referee the situation. So when she’s offered the chance to spend the holidays in her old hometown of ChristmasFalls, far away from all the drama, she jumps on it. But the quaint town doesn’t feel quite like the home it once was. London shed the goth image that defined her in high school long ago, but no one recognizes the woman she's become. Except for Andy Broll, London’s childhood next door neighbor. He recognizes her immediately, which sends London’s heart fluttering as she starts to see Andy in a whole different light. But when her time in Christmas Falls doesn’t go as planned, will London face it head on? Or will she find a reason to run?
 Rumor Has It in Christmas Falls by Melinda Curtis
As a political strategist at Dunlop Bennet & Associates, Lexi Townsend's career is going nowhere. She's a cubical dweller writing speeches for freshmen senators in DC. But if she can hitch her career wagon to a rising political star, she’ll be on her way to a corner office in no time. When she’s offered a plum holiday assignment–an ideal candidate with deep pockets, someone who could make the leap from local to national politics–she starts to dream about that corner office. Until she realizes her candidate is Kevin O’Malley, aka Kevin the Hottie, Kevin the Snob, Kevin the Liar, the same guy who shattered her high school reputation back home in Christmas Falls with a rumor. Assignment in hand, Lexi braces herself for the most difficult political race of her career--because this time it’s personal.
 Forever Yours in Christmas Falls by Susan Hatler
Morgan Reed is excited to return to her hometown of Christmas Falls and open her beauty salon, but when she arrives to her rented business space she’s shocked to find it already occupied by Dallas Parker—her brother’s best friend, the guy she had a childhood crush on, and the one her mom blames for their family’s greatest tragedy. With their landlord out of the country and unreachable, Morgan and Dallas must open their businesses together. But, no worries, all small towns need a combo furniture store/beauty salon, right? Ugh. As they work together, Morgan tries to keep her emotional distance but time and off-the-charts chemistry soon turn a childhood friendship into a blossoming romance. Unfortunately, just when their relationship develops into something deeper, an unexpected crisis re-opens her family’s old wounds and the blame is on Dallas once again. Will Morgan’s sadness and fear pull them apart, or make her realize Dallas has always been her heart’s true safe harbor?
 Love Notes in Christmas Falls by Beth Labonte
When Caitlin Cook left the small town of Christmas Falls, Tennessee to attend Harvard University, she left behind the burden of her parents’ slowly increasing hoard of antiques, a much younger brother, and Shane Mitchell—the boy who blindsided her with the news that he loved her on the night before she left. Shane Mitchell spent his high school years fascinated by Caitlin Cook. The quiet flute player with her nose always in a book, he wanted desperately to find out what made her tick. Eight years later, Caitlin returns to Christmas Falls—unemployed and newly single—after receiving a devastating letter from her beloved high school mentor. Caitlin is shocked to find her childhood home in disarray, and her little brother in desperate need of his sister. With Shane’s help—now a pillar of the community rather than the carefree teenager Caitlin once knew—she begins to rediscover her love for music, antiques, and possibly even Shane. When faced with the choice of rebuilding her life in Boston, or giving love a second chance in Christmas Falls, will Caitlin be able to decide on the true meaning of home?
 Finding The Truth in Christmas Falls by Danielle Stewart
Olivia Mackey spent her whole life hearing how she was destined for bigger and better places than Christmas Falls, Tennessee. A regular on the beauty queen scene from a very young age, she learned from her stage mom, that appearances mean everything. Having spent the years after high school traveling the world and failing at the dream everyone told her she should have, she's back home and wondering what she's to do next. Nothing is where she left it. Friends have scattered, her mentor is ill, and Olivia is fumbling her way through a big life in a small town.
Tim Avondale and his young daughter showed up in Christmas Falls one evening looking for a fresh start. Buying the Sleepy Hound Bookstore seemed the perfect opportunity. Life had gone so wrong and now here in this quiet town he could keep anything bad from happening to his daughter again.
When the two cross paths Olivia and Tim find an instant connection. A tug toward each other they don't want to ignore. The problem is, in the process they are being tugged away from all the things they thought were important in their lives. He can't hide out from real life forever. She is more than just what people see on the surface. But when they're forced to decide will they choose to be better together or safer apart?
 $100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway Ends 11/5/17 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway
Pistols and Poplin Book Blitz
10/21/2017
USA Today bestselling author Kirsten Osbourne knows how to write romance. Each book is an experience that transplants the reader, indulging them in decadence, intense emotion and sweeping love.
Hailing from the state of Wisconsin, she has lived in Texas for over thirty years as a mother, writer, and wife. Married to the love of her life for more than fifteen years, she knows that true love exists and shares that vision with the world.
She writes contemporary and historical romance as well and also ventures into the realm of paranormal romance. She invites you to join her in her world of fantasy, love, and make believe, no matter the location, where there is always a happily ever after at the end.
Connect with the Author here:
~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Amazon ~
 Amelia C. Adams is the author of twenty-five sweet Western romance novels, the mother of four children, and the eater of chocolate cake and tacos. Many tacos. Too many tacos to count. Because cheese. And meat. Meat and cheese.
She has hit the Amazon bestseller list three times and has the screenshots to prove it. Even though she’s only been publishing Westerns for two years, she plans to do it forever and ever, or until the cows come home, whichever happens first. She credits her own pioneer heritage for this new interest, and is glad that she doesn’t have to wear twelve petticoats to be considered modest.
Connect with the Author here:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  Peggy L Henderson is an award-winning, best-selling western historical and time travel romance author of the Yellowstone Romance Series, Second Chances Time Travel Romance Series, Teton Romance Trilogy, and the Blemished Brides and Wilderness Brides Western Historical Romance Series. When she’s not writing about Yellowstone, the Tetons, or the old west, she’s out hiking the trails, spending time with her family and pets, or catching up on much-needed sleep. She is happily married to her high school sweetheart. Along with her husband and two sons, she makes her home in Southern California.
Connect with the Author here:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 
Carra Copelin is an award winning and Amazon Best Selling Author in contemporary and historical romances but, unlike so many other authors, didn't write from childhood or read long into the night beneath the covers with a flashlight. She found romance novels as an adult. After reading about a million, she discovered numerous people residing in her head, all looking for a way onto the printed page.
She's a member of Romance Writers of America and Past President of Yellow Rose Romance Writers, plus she regularly contributes to romance blog, Smart Girls Read Romance. She is a member of The Daughters of the American Revolution and The Daughters of the Republic of Texas.
Carra and her hero live in North Central Texas, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex where they enjoy family and their three beautiful grandchildren. In addition to writing and researching with her fabulous critique partners, she enjoys playing Bridge, working on crochet projects, and tracking down relatives through genealogy.
Connect with the Author here:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  A transplanted Scot, Margery now lives on a lake in Canada.
Although she grew up as far away from the old west as possible, she’s always had a love affair with the men and women who settled the untamed land west of the Mississippi. Glued to TV westerns like Maverick, Rawhide and Gunsmoke, and reading stories of Annie Oakley, Roy Rogers and Rin Tin Tin, it was only natural that when she started writing, she wrote what she loved to watch and read. When she’s not writing or travelling in search of the perfect setting for her next novel, you can usually find her wielding a pair of knitting needles or a pool cue.
Connect with the Author here:
"Five brand-new sweet Western novellas by five of your favorite authors!
Mail Order Miller by Kirsten Osbourne
No one wants to employ Doris Miller, and no man is interested in her. Traveling two-thousand miles across country to marry a stranger may seem strange to some, but it’s the answer to her troubles.
Harvey Butler’s children are the scourge of the town of Salmon, Oregon. When one of the women of the town insists he needs a bride, he’s certain he could never find someone willing to marry him. When he receives a response from Doris Miller, he’s convinced it will be a marriage of convenience, and they will simply coexist. Will Doris be able to change his mind about his future?
The Risk and the Reward by Amelia C. Adams
Sybil James has worked her way up and is now employed as the ladies' maid for Lady Douglas, a wealthy woman of distinction. When Lady Douglas decides to travel to America to visit her son, she gives the girl a chance to see the world and experience things she could only dream about before.
Grant Douglas is enjoying his life as an American businessman, all the while knowing that he'll eventually return to England to run the family estate. Circumstances force his hand early and he must drop everything to set things to rights--one of those things being the stewardship of a lovely young ladies' maid who finds herself without a home.
Two very different worlds collide . . . two hearts must decide what it is they most want.
Emmeline: Bride of Arkansas by Carra Copelin
Emmeline Weidner was left at the altar by her intended. Seeking to heal her bruised feminine ego, she moves in with her sister. While learning to cope with her new life, she discovers she isn’t content to live the life of a spoiled society woman. Can she let go of her newfound independence when the right man comes along?
Lincoln Bass returns to Flat Rock Point, Arkansas a year after the accident that almost cost his life. His former employer has asked him for help at the lumber mill. He is apprehensive, but feels he owes the man who saved his life. Then he crosses paths with the most delectable, yet bewildering female he’s ever encountered.
In His Thoughts by Peggy L. Henderson
Assigned to a position in the newly formed Yellowstone National Park, life seems like it couldn't get any better for Ben Ferguson. But patrolling for poachers is fraught with danger, and he soon finds his future looking bleak. Images of a blue-eyed guardian angel are the only thing he has to pull him from the edge of death.
Crazy. Worthless. Demon-possessed. Clara Youngblood has been labeled many things by people who cannot understand the challenges she must confront every day within her own mind. When all seems dark, a glimmer of hope appears in the form of a retired soldier.
Ben and Clara wouldn't have chosen the circumstances that brought them together, but they soon discover their importance in rescuing each other.
The High Stakes Bride by Margery Scott
Chloe Taggart has one goal—to leave Rocky Ridge as soon as possible and see the world. She has no intention of ever being under a man’s thumb, and she has no desire to spend her life cooking and cleaning when she could be sailing the Pacific or touring ancient Greek ruins.
Even though Austin Hayward is content with his life on his ranch, it would be perfect if he had a wife to share it with. Unfortunately, there is only one woman he’s interested in marrying—Chloe Taggart. Chloe and Austin have known each other for years, but she’s never looked at him as anything more than a friend.
When Chloe’s father loses his diner to Austin in a poker game, Austin makes her a proposition—her father will get his diner back, and Austin will get Chloe."
Note: the formatting issues mentioned by some of the reviews have been corrected, and we apologize! :)
 
Mail Order Miller by Kirsten Osbourne
Snippet:
He reached out and put his hand on the doorknob, knowing he was about to lose his new bride when she saw the mess his children had made of the house in his absence. He pushed open the door, and immediately scolded the boys. “I told you not to tie Mrs. Johnson up again!â€
Doris bit her lip as she saw Mrs. Johnson tied to one of the kitchen chairs. “Would you like some help, Mrs. Johnson?†She grabbed a kitchen knife from a block and cut the twine tying the woman’s hands behind her. “I’m Doris. It’s nice to meet you.â€
Mrs. Johnson shook her head. “It was my idea to send for a mail order bride, but I feel bad for you. You might want to run now, before it’s too late.â€
Doris shrugged, a grin on her face. “I’m not even a little bit afraid. Thanks for watching the children while we got married.†She looked around, and it seemed that Harvey was already gone, dealing with his offspring.
“I hope you’re stronger than you look.†Mrs. Johnson left with that quick parting shot.
Fun random facts About Kristen Osbourne
· Kirsten Osbourne has an unhealthy obsession with men named Bob.
· Kirsten just made a cross-country move with her husband and son, neither of whom have ever lived more than twenty miles from where they were born in Texas.
· Kirsten runs a Facebook group for lovers of historical Western romance called Pioneer Hearts.
· Kirsten is obsessed with the television show, When Calls the Heart.
To view our blog schedule and follow along with this tour visit our Official Event page
First Line Fridays -- The Two of Us
10/20/2017
 Grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line! Today I am going to post a line from The Two of Us by Victoria Bylin.  My First Line: Mia Robinson couldn't take her eyes off the man in a cowboy hat working a claw-machine game, the kind where a child--or a boyfriend or father--put in a dollar and tried to grab a toy in thirty seconds or less. What are you reading? What is your first line?
Open the book nearest you and post the first line in the comments below... Now head on over to Hoarding Books and link up! And then hop around the linky! 
About the Book
Jo Ellen Baker is shocked to find out that the boy who teased her mercilessly throughout high school, has returned to their hometown of Freedom Lake, and he’s missing a leg. When his mother asks her to renovate their carriage house to give him a place to gain his independence back, she wants to say no. But one look at him brings a rush of forgotten feelings.
Evan Carter can’t believe he has to return home and live with his parents. Every hope and dream he ever had dissipated in a car crash that cost him his leg. Stuck in a wheelchair, he’s forced to reexamine his relationship with God and the local carpenter, Jo Ellen Baker. Will renovating his home open the door for a mended relationship, or are some wounds too deep to heal from? About the Author
Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and Christian fiction writer. Once she understood the powerful saving grace thanks to the love of Christ, she was moved to honor her Savior. She writes to bring Him glory and to learn more about His goodness.
She spends her days hanging out with her husband and their two boys. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and president of the Virginia Chapter. You can find her on her website at http://tonishiloh.wordpress.com. Author Interview
Check out the author interview HERE.
Snippet
Evan Carter stared at his girlfriend, admiring her beauty. Brenda’s pixie haircut framed her pretty face and a soft smile graced her lips. She wore charm and gentleness like a cloak as she gracefully changed lanes. She drove his new Altima like it was made for her.
He loved that Brenda suited every aspect of his life. She was a slam dunk in the girlfriend department. He ran his fingers over the velvet box in his pocket. Tonight was the night. The restaurant staff had been informed of his plans. With their help, his proposal would be flawless. “Should I adjust the temp?” he asked. “I’m good, sweetie,” she smiled at him, then quickly faced forward again. Brenda would make the best high-school coach’s wife. His students loved her and she loved basketball as much as he did. It was so easy to be with her. “Evan, you made the perfect choice. This car is so quiet. I can’t believe we can’t hear the outside noise.” “I know. That’s what sold me.” He pointed up ahead. “Make a right at the light.” He hadn’t revealed their dinner location. If he didn’t pay close attention, they’d miss a turn. “Are you sure you don’t want to tell me where we’re going?” “I’m sure. I still think you should have let me drive. Then it would really be a surprise.” She laughed. “Of course, it would have been better, but I’ve been itching to get behind the wheel ever since you bought it.” “Well now—” A black truck swerved in and out of their lane. “Baby, slow down. Watch out for that truck!” There was nowhere to pull over, no way to avoid the impending collision. The two-lane road had no shoulder and the truck was picking up speed. The black truck righted itself. But before Evan could even sigh in relief, the truck corrected, ending up in their lane, headed straight for them. They were going to collide. Evan held his breath, clenched his eyes, and braced for impact. Brenda’s scream pierced the air, but it seemed far away. His seat belt locked tight as the car came to an abrupt stop. A weight dropped onto his leg. Pain exploded, smoke filled his nose. His body struggled to make sense of what happened. Finally, he closed his eyes and gave in to the darkness. Review
Author Toni Shiloh has written a beautiful and touching Hallmark movie style novel that readers will thoroughly enjoy. From page one, readers will fall in love with the strong spirited characters. This story is about a friendship gone wrong and wounds from the past opened fresh; but it is also about finding a way to mend an old friendship. Shiloh brings life and voice to her charming characters and delightful story. This is a sweet, fun, emotional, inspirational, and romantic novel that readers will not want to miss!
Series: Freedom Lake Genre: contemporary, romance Publisher: Indie Publication date: September 26, 2017 Number of pages: 294 A review copy of this book was provided by SLB Tours. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. Giveaway
Tour Schedule
October 16-Christian Bookaholic
October 17-Blossoms and Blessings | The Power of Words October 18-The Green Mockingbird October 19-Joy of Reading | Red Headed Book Lady October 20-Singing Librarian Books | Ponderings of a Poet & Procrastinator October 21-Faithfully Bookish Reviewer: Mindy Houng 
One of the only things just as fun as chatting about favorite books is oohing and ahhing over lovely covers. The 2017 Christy Award finalists are live, and there are some wonderful designs represented in all different genres. We’ll have to wait until November to see which of these titles will win awards in their categories for their actual content…but until then, why not do a fun poll choosing your favorite covers? Here’s how it works.  Go to the Christy Award finalists page to look at all of the covers. Then pull up this survey. (Maybe make it fill half the screen so you can evaluate both at the same time.) After that, it’s time to make the tough choices for what stands out to you in each of the categories listed. This is just for fun—we won’t be handing out fancy statues to the authors…but I will post the winners here next week. And speaking of the Christy Awards…  We’d love to see you at the upcoming Art of Writing Conference and Christy Awards! You can find out more about the event below, or if you’re already convinced, you can register here. About the Art of Writing Conference: The Art of Writing is designed to bring Christian creatives and publishing curators together for a half day of intensive seminars that celebrate the creative life, provide practical tips for overcoming challenges in a rapidly-changing industry, and answer questions authors are asking. The speakers represent a wide range of roles and areas of expertise. Andrew Peterson, young adult writer and founder of the Rabbit Room, will give advice on how to create and benefit from a vibrant creative community, while Wheaton College professor Theon Hill, Ph.D. will present a survey of the obstacles and opportunities of diversity in Christian fiction. Authors will receive encouragement for the ups and downs of the writing life from blogger Carrie Schmidt and author, agent, and ACFW public relations liaison Cynthia Ruchti. Finally, a panel of representatives from major ECPA publishers will share insider information on where the genre has been, where it’s going, and the exciting changes they see in today’s market for writers. Learn more about the speakers and sessions here. About the Christy Awards: The Christy Award™ is designed to nurture and encourage creativity and quality in the writing and publishing of fiction written from a Christian worldview and showcase the diversity of genres. The award is named for Catherine Marshall’s enduring bestselling novel, Christy, published in 1967 and inspiring a continuing book series and a CBS television series starring Kellie Martin. The novel will be re-released in 2017 in a 50th anniversary legacy edition by Gilead Publishing in partnership with Kregel Publications. Hosted by award-winning author and radio host Chris Fabry, this year’s celebration gala dinner will feature New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury as well as musician and writer Andrew Peterson. You can view the finalist list here. Tour ScheduleMonday, October 9:
Top Ten Writing Industry Issues at Seekerville Tuesday, October 10: Survey: Give Us Your Best Questions at By the Book Wednesday, October 11: Interview with Dr. Theon Hill at Reading is My Superpower Thursday, October 12: Celebrating the Christy Awards…With a Giveaway! at Bethany House Fiction Friday, October 13: Quiz: Pick Your Gala Dress at Dani Pettrey’s blog Saturday, October 14: Eight Reasons to Come to The Art of Writing at The Power of Words Sunday, October 15: Interview with Carrie Schmidt at Bookworm Mama Monday, October 16: Interview with Cynthia Ruchti at Just Commonly Tuesday, October 17: Christy Nominee Bingo and Giveaway at Faithfully Bookish Wednesday, October 18: The Unofficial Readers’ Choice Cover Awards at Singing Librarian Books  About the Book Christmas in Blue Angela just wants Christmas to be over. Instead, she finds herself in charge of the town’s celebration, and everything goes from bad to worse. Can she rescue Christmas for the town—and herself? Christmas in Gold When eighty-year-old Astrid moves into an assisted living community and meets a young woman on the brink of despair, she resolves to stir up Christmas hope one more time. About the Author Olivia Newport’s novels twist through time to find where faith and passions meet. Her husband and twentysomething children provide welcome distraction from the people stomping through her head on their way into her books. She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where daylilies grow as tall as she is. Guest Post from Olivia NewportWe All Have a Story I’m younger than most of the people I exercise with. It started when I had a lot of pain in my feet and needed low-impact classes with the option of sitting down and learned I didn’t have to be a senior citizen to take their classes at my gym. Then I discovered how tough most of them are. Years later, though my feet are better, these are still my people. A couple of years ago, while we waited for the younger and allegedly-but-not-really-tougher crowd to clear out of the group exercise room so we could invade it, a woman I would not have guessed to be 80, because she could out-cardio and out-lift me any day of the week, mentioned she had been widowed since she was 39. And she’d been widowed the first time at 19. And she’d grown up in Germany while Hitler was intent on destroying Europe and life was not easy. Then the changing of the guard happened and I was left with my mouth gaping. I knew I had to hear this story. The next week after class, we went across the parking lot to Culvers for lunch and I scribbled notes on the backs of a pile of brown napkins while Astrid talked. Later she let me read the account of her life that she had written herself. Astrid faced so many tragic circumstances, but she would be the first to tell you that God was with her even before she knew how to call on him. Many people with her life story would have found plenty of reason to wallow and stagnate. But not Astrid. Truly she is one of the most hopeful people I know. Her story was the beginning of Colors of Christmas, which includes two stories. Astrid’s is “Christmas in Gold,” and the other is “Christmas in Blue.” Astrid inspired me to write about hope for a time of year when the Christian message resounds with hope yet so many people struggle to grasp hope for themselves. I pray these stories will help many recover a sense of hope afresh. Olivia Newport chases joy in Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where daylilies grow as tall as she is. ReviewAuthor Olivia Newport has written two beautiful, sweet, tender, and touching stories, Christmas in Gold and Christmas in Blue, in her Christmas book Colors of Christmas. These two stories will capture the heart of readers as they bring to light the hardships of life changes, but the joy this can also bring. Especially with the Christmas holidays just around the corner. Newport has written heart-rending stories that readers will relate to, as well as be inspired by. Readers of contemporary and holiday fiction will enjoy these stories. Genre: holiday, Christmas, contemporary, Christian Publisher: Shiloh Run Press Publication date: October 1, 2017 Number of pages: 320 A review copy of this novel was provided by CelebrateLit. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. Giveaway To celebrate her tour, Olivia is giving away a grand prize of a Christmas Bundle Bonanza which includes 7 Jumbo rolls of Christmas wrapping paper, 2 sets of stick-on gift tags, 2 packages of Christmas cards and envelopes, 2 collections of Christmas novellas—18 stories in all, and a signed copy of Colors of Christmas!! Click HERE to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! Tour ScheduleBooks N Baubles, October 17 Christian Bookaholic, October 17 Bukwurmzzz, October 17 Janices book reviews, October 18 Singing Librarian Books, October 18 Reading Is My SuperPower, October 18 Moments Dipped in Ink, October 18 A Simply Enchanted Life, October 19 G.O. & D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, October 19 Bigreadersite, October 19 Reader’s cozy corner, October 20 Have A Wonderful Day, October 20 Reflections from my bookshelves, October 20 Blogging With Carol, October 21 Just the Write Escape, October 21 Zerina Blossom’s Books, October 21 A Greater Yes, October 22 Mary Hake, October 22 Daysong Reflections, October 22 A Baker’s Perspective, October 23 Ashley’s Bookshelf, October 23 Baker Kella, October 23 Smiling Book Reviews, October 23 The Fizzy Pop Collection, October 24 It’s Storytime With Van Daniker, October 24 Remembrancy, October 24 Carpe Diem, October 25 autism mom, October 25 Bibliophile Reviews, October 25 A Reader’s Brain, October 26 By The Book, October 26 The Power of Words, October 26 With a Joyful Noise, October 27 Pause for Tales, October 27 Splashes of Joy, October 27 Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 28 Christian Chick’s Thoughts, October 28 Karen Sue Hadley, October 28 Vicky Sluiter, October 29 To Everything a Season, October 29 Pursuing Stacie, October 29 Just Jo’Anne, October 30 Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 30 Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 30  About the Book Decades of loss, an unsolved mystery, and a rift spanning three generations. Hazel DeFord is a woman haunted by her past. While berry picking in a blackberry thicket in 1943, ten-year old Hazel momentarily turns her back on her three-year old sister Maggie and the young girl disappears. Almost seventy years later, the mystery remains unsolved and the secret guilt Hazel carries has alienated her from her daughter Diane, who can't understand her mother's overprotectiveness and near paranoia. While Diane resents her mother's inexplicable eccentricities, her daughter Meghan-a cold case agent-cherishes her grandmother's lavish attention and affection. When a traffic accident forces Meghan to take a six-week leave-of-absence to recover, all three generations of DeFord women find themselves unexpectedly under the same roof. Meghan knows she will have to act as a mediator between the two headstrong and contentious women. But when they uncover Hazel's painful secret, will Meghan also be able to use her investigative prowess to solve the family mystery and help both women recover all that's been lost? About the Author Kim Vogel Sawyer is a highly acclaimed, best-selling author with more than one million books in print, in several different languages. Her titles have earned numerous accolades including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas with her retired military husband Don, where she continues to write gentle stories of hope and redemption. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and grandchildren. ReviewBringing Maggie Home by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a beautiful, powerful, and inspiring novel that readers will fall in love with and will not want to put down! It is about a rift spanning three generations of women, grandmother and mother, mother and daughter, daughter and granddaughter. It is about a past unsolved mystery that continues to haunt and cause issues in future generations of the family. It is about the relationship and bond between women, especially blood relations. This story is intriguing, suspenseful, emotional, and inspiring. Readers will not want to miss this excellent story from Sawyer!
Genre: historical, mystery, family, Christian Publisher: WaterBrook Publication date: September 5, 2017 Number of pages: 352 A review copy of this book was provided by the LitFuse. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.  About the Book Smart, strong, and a follower of the Jewish God, Lydia has nonetheless quietly conformed to the expectations of the wealthy Roman society into which she was born. Her father marries her off at age fifteen to a much older man whom she dislikes. Despite an unpleasant wedding and a marriage that doesn’t improve with age, Lydia remains a dutiful and faithful wife. When her husband is killed, years later, Lydia vows to remain single and returns to her father’s house in Thyatira with her twelve-year-old daughter. There, a new life begins to emerge as she is trained in the family dye business. Lydia displays an aptitude for trade in the male-dominated world of first century commerce. Her brother, who had chosen service in the Roman army rather than work in his father’s business, is at odds with his sister. Jealous of her quiet success as she learns the dye business, he’s especially befuddled by what he considers to be Lydia’s obsession with the Jewish religion. When their father dies, Cassius inherits the family’s home; Lydia inherits the business, and unbeknownst to her brother, a small villa in the city of Philippi. Lydia flees with her mother and daughter to Philippi where she sets up shop. At the mercy of a patriarchal society, Lydia needs a man to serve as the public face for her business. She discovers the right person in the handsome face of Greek man she’d hired — an employee with whom she develops a close friendship. The plot thickens as Lydia meets a strange man named Paul the apostle who is stirring up crowds in town. When Lydia’s brother shows up in Philippi, determined to force her to sell the business, he discovers plenty of fuel to accomplish his goals. About the Author Diana Wallis Taylor is best known for her creative stories based on women in the Bible. Thousands have read and enjoyed her books including Mary Chosen of God, Ruth, Mother of Kings, Martha, Journey to the Well, Mary Magdalene, and Claudia, Wife of Pontius Pilate. She is the recipient of numerous awards and honors with the San Diego Library naming her one of 12 “Writers to Watch” in 2017 for Mary, Chosen of God. Her books have received Gold and Silver Medallion Awards for Christian Fiction and she is a San Diego Christian Writer’s Guild “Writer of the Year.” Mary, Chosen of God is a 2017 Christy Award nominee. An inspirational speaker, Diana also leads creative writing and poetry workshops. She lives in San Diego with her husband, Frank. They have six grown children and ten grandchildren Review Lydia, Woman of Phillipi by Diana Wallis Taylor is a beautifully written biblical fiction novel. From page one, Taylor t brings to life the story of her main character Lydia. It shows of her disappointment in not having love in her marriage, but the love she has for her daughter. It shows of her determinedness to follow the Jewish God, train in her father’s dye business, and deal with her proud and arrogant brother. This story is about life, love, and family. This is a story that readers of biblical fiction will truly enjoy. Genre: biblical, romance, Christian Publisher: Whitaker House Publication date: October 3, 2017 Number of pages: 320 A review copy of this novel was provided by CelebrateLit. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. Giveaway In honor of her tour, Diana is giving away: Grand Prize Package: Lydia, Woman of Philippi, “Give Thanks” painting on plate by Donna White for The Hearthside Collection, Inc., commemorative Whitaker House/Anchor Distributors coloring book (not in photo). 1st Place Package: Lydia, Woman of Philippi, abba Jerusalem pillar candle, cassia scented, commemorative Whitaker House/Anchor Distributors coloring book (not in photo). 2nd Place Package: Lydia, Woman of Philippi, abba Jerusalem Spikenard candle tin with lid! Tour ScheduleA Bakers Perspective, October 3 Carpe Diem, October 3 Moments Dipped in Ink, October 4 Books, Books, and More Books., October 4 By The Book, October 5 A Simply Enchanted Life, October 5 Red Headed Book Lady, October 6 Blogging With Carol, October 6 A Reader’s Brain, October 7 A Greater Yes, October 7 Just the Write Escape, October 8 Simple Harvest Reads, October 8 (Spotlight) Aryn the Libraryan, October 9 Cordially Barbara, October 9 Pursuing Stacie, October 9 The Fizzy Pop Collection, October 10 Ashley’s Bookshelf, October 10 Zerina Blossom’s Books, October 11 Mary Hake, October 11 Radiant Light, October 12 Singing Librarian Books, October 12 Lights in a Dark World, October 12 margaretkazmierczak, October 13 Pause for Tales, October 13 Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 14 Cafinated Reads, October 14 To Everything A Season, October 14 Bigreadersite, October 15 Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 15 Henry Happens, October 16 For The Love of Books, October 16 Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, October 16  About the Book Jack Bentley’s life fractured into jagged shards of pain and loneliness four months ago when his wife’s car plunged into the Snake River. Still reeling from the loss of his wife and infant son, Jack finds his world shaken again when he sees the ghost of his wife, Gina. But the truth she tells him changes everything: their son didn't drown with her. Now, Jack must find his son before he slips away forever. Haunted by loss and his wife's plea, Jack finds himself diving into a mystery deeper than the river's swift current. No power on Earth can reunite him with his little boy—and even help from beyond the grave may not be enough to bring Jack's son back. About the Author Rachelle is the award-winning author of twelve books, including The Soldier’s Bride (a Kindle Scout Selection) and The Wedding Planner Mystery Series. She is a mother of five who writes mystery/suspense, nonfiction, and women’s fiction. She solves the case of the missing shoe on a daily basis. Rachelle enjoys raising chickens and laughing with her husband on their little farm in rural Idaho. She graduated cum laude from Utah State University with a degree in psychology and a minor in music. Join Rachelle’s VIP mailing list to learn more about upcoming books & get your free book at www.rachellechristensen.com GiveawayEnter to win a $50 Gift Card and a book bundle including signed copies of Rachelle's award-winning suspense novels, Wrong Number and Caller ID. 1 person will win $50 gift card, 1 person will win book bundle NOTE: When you enter, you’ll automatically be signed up for Rachelle's newsletter! Subscription is FREE. The communications will contain information, giveaways, and promotions similar to this giveaway, so it’s appropriate under the CAN-SPAM Act. If you do not wish to be on the mailing lists, DO NOT enter the contest. However, you also have the option to unsubscribe at any time. Enter the giveaway HERE.
About the Book The choices you make determine who you are. No no mark." Lochiel Ogle was born with a red-wine birthmark--and it put her life in jeopardy from the moment she entered the world. Mountain folks called it "the mark of the devil," and for all the evil that has plagued her nineteen-year existence, Lochiel is ready to believe that is true. And the evil surely took control of the mind of the boy who stole her as an infant, bringing her home for his mother to raise. Abused and abandoned by the only people she knows as family, Lochiel is rescued by a peddler and given the first glimpse of love she has ever known. The truth of her past is gradually revealed as is the fact that she is still hunted by a brother driven to see her dead. Unsure if there's anyone she can truly trust, Lochiel is faced with a series of choices: Will she continue to run for escape or will she face her past and accept the heartbreaking secrets it reveals? Which will truly free her? Set in the wild and beautiful Appalachian Mountains of nineteenth-century East Tennessee, Liar's Winter is an unflinching yet inspirational exploration of prejudice and choice. About the Author Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She has cofounded ChristianDevotions.us and serves as managing editor for SonRise Books and Straight Street Books, imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Cindy teaches at Christian Writers Conferences and ladies retreats and ladies conferences across the country. Her devotions are heartfelt and honest. Edgy and inviting. Cindy serves as the executive editor of ChristianDevotions.us, a writing mentor, and life-coach. Author of four non-fiction books, Cindy's Fiction debut novel, Mercy's Rain(Kregel Publishing), will release January 2015. She is a contributing author to CBN.com and InspireaFire.com and serves as the director of Writers ADVANCE! Boot Camp Conference. ReviewLiar’s Winter: an Appalachian Novel by Cindy K. Sproles is a beautifully written and inspiring read. From page one, Sproles brings to life the heart-wrenching emotions and stories of her characters. This fresh Appalachian Mountain story deals with prejudice and abuse of an innocent girl because of huge facial birthmark, as well as has mystery, danger, and adventure. It is a story that will speak to the heart and truly inspire its readers.
Genre: historical, Christian Publisher: Kregel Publications Publication date: August 29, 2017 Number of pages: 248Liar’s Winter: an Appalachian Novel by Cindy K. Sproles is a beautifully written and inspiring read. From page one, Sproles brings to life the heart-wrenching emotions and stories of her characters. This fresh Appalachian Mountain story deals with prejudice and abuse of an innocent girl because of huge facial birthmark, as well as has mystery, danger, and adventure. It is a story that will speak to the heart and truly inspire its readers. Genre: historical, Christian Publisher: Kregel Publications Publication date: August 29, 2017 Number of pages: 248 A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher, Kregel Publications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. |
