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  • About
  • Contact Me
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Singing Librarian Books

Teen Blog

Evermore (The Lost Princesses #1) by Jody Hedlund -- Blog Tour Excerpt + Giveaway

9/18/2019
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​On Tour with Prism Book Tours

About Always

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(The Lost Princesses #0.5)
By Jody Hedlund
Christian YA Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 136 Pages
August 13th 2019 by Northern Lights Press

A fierce elite guard. A loyal lady in waiting. They must work together to save three princesses from certain death.

On the verge of dying after giving birth to twins, the queen of Mercia pleads with Lady Felicia to save her infant daughters. With the castle overrun by King Ethelwulf’s invading army, Lady Felicia vows to do whatever she can to take the newborn princesses and their three-year old sister to safety, even though it means sacrificing everything she holds dear, possibly her own life.

Gravely wounded in battle and knowing all is lost to his enemy, the king of Mercia tasks Lance, one of his fiercest elite guards, to protect his family along with keys to an ancient treasure. As Lance makes plans to sneak the princesses out of the capital city, he doesn’t need or want Lady Felicia’s help.
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With the dark enemy in pursuit, Lance and Felicia must put aside their differences to outrun King Ethelwulf and prevent him from killing the princesses. In a desperate attempt to hide the young girls, Lance and Felicia agree to a marriage of convenience, a decision that will change their lives—and hearts—forever.
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository
Also FREE through KindleUnlimited

About Evermore

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​(The Lost Princesses #1)
By Jody Hedlund
Christian YA Historical
Paperback & ebook, 222 Pages
August 27th 2019 by Northern Lights Press

An ancient key. A secret treasure. And a princess destined to use them both to fight evil and restore peace.

Raised by a noble family, Lady Adelaide has always known she’s an orphan. Little does she realize she’s one of the lost princesses and the true heir to Mercia’s throne…until a visitor arrives at her family estate, reveals her birthright as queen, and thrusts her into a quest for the throne whether she’s ready or not.

Unable to tolerate King Ethelwulf’s cruelty and lawlessness, Christopher Langley left Mercia years earlier, training a group of rebels in neighboring Norland. When he returns home after his mother’s death, he discovers that not only is Adelaide all grown up, but she’s also the rightful queen of Mercia.
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When King Ethelwulf discovers Adelaide’s location, he’ll stop at nothing to capture her and the key she holds to the ancient treasure. Christopher is just as determined to protect Adelaide so she can lead the growing rebellion. When feelings ignite between the two old friends, forces threaten to destroy their love and rip them apart forever.
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository
Also FREE through KindleUnlimited

Other Books in the Series

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About the Author

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Jody Hedlund is a best-selling and award-winning author who loves fairy-tales and happily-ever-afters. She makes her home in Midland, MI with her husband and five teen-aged children. When she’s not writing another of her page-turning stories, you can usually find her sipping coffee, eating chocolate, and reading.
​Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│Instagram│BookBub

Excerpt

We returned to our respective corners of the list, raised our lances, and then began to ride toward each other once again. I bent closer to Roland, needing his strength, begging him for it. Then I put all thought out of my mind, save one—the target on Lord Mortimer’s chest.
Roland’s gait lengthened. His canter quickened. And the pounding of his iron-shod hooves echoed the thud of my heart. I sensed we were working together. We were a team. And this time I had to hit my mark.
We drew nearer, but I waited, my gaze fixed and unwavering. Then at the last second, I drove my lance hard, feeling Roland thrust with me.
The crack of splintering wood was followed by Lord Mortimer’s muffled cry of distress. The blow knocked into his chest at the same moment his lance hit me again. The power of the strike drove the wind from my lungs, and I felt myself sliding sideways. I clung to Roland desperately with my thighs. As though feeling my struggle, the charger compensated for my weakness, lowering himself just slightly so that I might jerk back up.
As I righted myself in my saddle, the crowd erupted into wild cheering. I ambled to the end of the list before turning Roland around. At the sight of Lord Mortimer sprawled on the ground and his warhorse at the opposite end of the field without him, a relieved thrill of victory coursed through me. 

Giveaway

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One winner will receive the prequel and all three books in The Lost Princesses series (Always, Evermore, Foremost and Hereafter) in paperback or ebook (winner's choice, if winner is outside the US ebooks only)

​Ends September 25, 2019
Enter the giveaway HERE.

Tour Schedule

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1 Comment

Armor of Aletheia (Sacred Armor Trilogy Book 1) by Ralene Burke -- Review

9/16/2019

About the Book

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The death of the king sets in motion a chain of events that change Karina’s life forever. Thrust out of the royal city, she must leave her world behind to seek out the Armor of Elohim in order to save the very people who now hunt her.

Meanwhile, the opportunistic warlock waiting to unleash hell knows Elohim has already chosen his warrior, so he sends his own bounty hunter to retrieve her. After the bounty hunter abducts her, he witnesses her gentle nature and strong independence, and he finds he can’t turn her in.

Together, they set out to retrieve the armor and defeat the hordes of creatures sent to destroy them. But is his heart secure as he faces certain death for defending the princess? And will Karina be able to rise above her circumstances to become all Elohim intends her to be? Failure for either of them will condemn the world to eternal darkness. ​
GOODREADS | AMAZON

About the Author

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Whether she's wielding a fantasy writer's pen, a freelance editor's sword, or a social media wand, Ralene Burke always has her head in some dreamer's world. And her goal is to help them SHINE BEYOND! She has worked for a variety of groups/companies, including Realm Makers, The Christian PEN, Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, and as an editor for a number of freelance clients.

When her head's not in the publishing world, she is wife to a veteran and homeschooling mama to their three kids. Her Pinterest board would have you believe she is a master chef, excellent seamstress, and all around crafty diva. If she only had the time...
FACEBOOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE

Review

What an adventurous young adult fantasy story author Ralene Burke has crafted in her novel, Armor of Aletheia.  Readers will be pulled into this fun and exciting first book in the series.  This novel is full of enjoyable characters and a wonderful adventure.  It’s about a bounty hunter, a princess, friendship, and love.  It’s about a trek and a challenge that can change everything, or cause everything to be lost.  Young adult fantasy readers will be sure to enjoy this exciting new story!
 
Series: Sacred Armor Trilogy
Genre: Christian, fantasy, young adult
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing Inc.
Publication date: August 29, 2018
Number of pages: 268
 
A review copy of this book was provided by Prism Book Tours, as well as a copy borrowed from Amazon Kindle Unlimited.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
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The Story Raider (The Weaver Trilogy #2) by Lindsay A. Franklin -- Review

8/19/2019

About the Book

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Deceiving an empire is a treacherous game.

Tanwen and the Corsyth weavers race to collect the strands of an ancient cure that might save Gryfelle. But Tanwen has a secret—Gryfelle isn’t the only one afflicted by the weaver's curse.

As Queen Braith struggles to assert her rule, a new arrival throws her tenuous claim to the Tirian throne into question. Braith’s heart is turned upside down, and she’s not sure she can trust anyone—least of all herself.

The puppet master behind Gareth’s rise to power has designs on Tanwen and the story weavers and will stop at nothing to reclaim the throne. A plot to incite the angry peasants of Tir takes shape, and those dearest to Tanwen will be caught in the crossfire. As the fight for Tir consumes the realm, no one can remain innocent. ​
GOODREADS | AMAZON

About the Author

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Lindsay A. Franklin is a best-selling author, award-winning editor, and homeschooling mom of three. She would wear pajama pants all the time if it were socially acceptable. She lives in her native San Diego with her scruffy-looking nerf-herder of a husband, their precious geeklings, three demanding thunder pillows (a.k.a. cats), and a stuffed wombat with his own Instagram following. You can learn more about Lindsay on her website.
​FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | ​WEBSITE

Author Interview

Check out the author interview HERE.

Review

In book two of her Weaver Trilogy, Lindsay A. Franklin, once again brings to life a magical adventure.  This story continues and compliments the story of that in the first book.  This is a series that will need to be read in order to best understand what is going on.  Readers of The Story Peddler, the first book in the series, will be drawn to this story, waiting and wanting to know what will happen next.  Although the story is a bit stretched out and slow going and one of the main characters is a bit whiner than some readers may like, this tale is still filled with a beautiful and magical touch that readers will find charming.  There is also a bit of a love triangle going on in this story, along with the adventures and pillaging.  A theme in the story is strong bonds between family and friends.  Readers will be intrigued and drawn to this enticing story and will once again be left wanting more with its cliffhanger ending.
 
Series: The Weaver Trilogy
Genre: young adult, fantasy, Christian Fiction
Publisher: Enclave Publishing
Publication date: July 23, 2019
Number of pages: 368
 
Other books in the series:
1-The Story Peddler
 
A review copy of this book was purchased for review.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
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Escaping Neverland by Melissa Lemon -- Review

7/31/2019

About the Book

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Peter Pan is growing up. Nearing adulthood, he faces a choice: join the pirates of Neverland or face their wrath--or leave Neverland for good. Reluctant to abandon the Lost Boys, Peter searches for someone who can care for them and withstand the dangers of Neverland. The tough and witty Jane seems like the perfect replacement until he realizes that leaving her is almost as unbearable as becoming a pirate.
GOODREADS | AMAZON

About the Author

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Melissa has been writing stories since she could hold a pencil in her hand and she has a deformed, calloused finger to prove it. She began twisting fairy tales in the fifth grade when she wrote a story about George of the Jungle making his way to Neverland. Melissa enjoys writing, making music, reading, baking and running. She lives with her husband, three daughters and cat named Matilda.
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE

Review

Escaping Neverland by Melissa Lemon is an entertaining and exciting story that fans of Peter Pan will absolutely adore.  Lemon’s story comes to life with the turn of every page.  Her characters are relatable, fun, and engaging.  This Peter Pan is similar to the original, but has a few twists of its own.  The lost boys, as well as Peter Pan and Jane are wonderful characters that keep the story thrilling and engaging.  A light, quick, exciting read, fairytale lovers will want to pick up this charming and delightful new story.
 
Genre: fantasy, fairytale, young adult
Publisher: Sweetwater Books a division of Cedar Fort Publishing
Publication date: June 11, 2019
Number of pages: 192
 
A review copy of this book was provided by Clean Wholesome Romance Launch Team, as well as borrowed from Kindle Unlimited.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
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No Place Like Here by Christina June -- Grand Final Blitz

6/1/2019

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for No Place Like Here By Christina June

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

. . . It's about a girl struggling to make peace with her family, and also learning that her voice has value and power. NPLH is also filled with quotations, moonlight kisses, a sarcastic cousin, gingerbread houses, hiking, ziplines, and new beginnings. My hope is that readers will connect with Ashlyn's journey and maybe even feel inspired to speak up more often in their own lives.

Cheers, Christina June

It's All About the Romance - Excerpt

There is never a good way to find out your father is going to prison. Some are worse than others, though. For example, learning that your father has committed tax evasion via a social media post is on the top five worst ways list.

I might have missed it, if I hadn’t logged on to see if my best friend, Tatum, had posted any new messages for me. We’d spent the last school year apart—me at boarding school in the Shenandoah Valley and her at home, just south of Washington, DC—and we had been making plans for not only my big return home, but for the upcoming school year. Not that I’d actually asked my parents if I could come back for senior year yet. But I would. Soon.

Andi's Book Reviews - Excerpt

I swallowed the lump in the back of my throat and shut my laptop harder than I meant to. There was no way. Right? My dad going to jail? I scoffed aloud. No chance. It was a misprint. Had to be. There was no way my parents would keep something like Dad committing white collar crime a secret from me. Was there?

I felt around in my backpack for my phone. I’ll just call home and clear it up. Easy.

I dialed my mother but got her voicemail.

The Reading Corner for All - Review

"I loved that while this was an overall light read, the author was not afraid to delve into deep themes that gave No Place Like Here a layered meaning. No Place Like Here also held the timeless elements of friendship, the dynamics of family, and finding the courage to make your voice heard that will make for the perfect summer read!"

Wishful Endings - Review

"I really enjoyed reading this! It was interesting seeing how the classic Hansel and Gretel fairy tale was twisted into this contemporary story. The author made it her own and created a story easy to relate to, handling some difficult subjects, and creating a likable protagonist and some fun side characters. Recommended to contemporaneity YA fans, especially those who like their stories light on the romance."

Hearts & Scribbles - Excerpt

“Call Dad,” I said into the phone. It practically slipped from my sweaty palm. It rang once. Twice. Three times. I was about to slam the phone down on my bed when my dad answered.

“Hello?” Dad’s voice was gruff. Short. Like he didn’t have time for this.

“Hi, Dad.” My voice quavered. “It’s me.”

“Ashlyn, hi. How are you? Getting ready for exams, I hope.” Did I hear him take a deep breath? Was it fear or relief? Regardless, here he was, still managing to tell me what he thought I should be doing. Classic.

I gritted my teeth. “Of course. You know me.” And the kicker was, he didn’t. But that was neither here nor there.

Singing Librarian Books - Review

"Author Christina June has written a deep, powerful, and heart-wrenching story in her novel, No Place Like Here. . . . Teens and adults alike will be drawn to this tender and emotional story. This is one of those stories that gives readers all the feels. Readers will absolutely not want to put down this novel. . ."

Bookish Looks - Excerpt

I pursed my lips. “I’m sorry I was shocked by the fact that you didn’t tell me before the internet did.” As soon as I said it, my stomach dropped like I was on a roller coaster. Clapping back at him never went over well.

My father exhaled into the receiver. “Unhelpful, Ashlyn. This is a very difficult time for me right now. It is certainly not the time to be disrespectful. You were not raised to act this way.”

My chest tightened the way it always did when he criticized me. I wanted to tell my dad it was a very difficult time for all of us right now. Because of him. I wanted to tell him I was angry something catastrophic was happening to our family. Because of him. I wanted to tell him I felt embarrassed and ashamed. Because of him. I wanted to tell him that despite my anger, I was scared. Because of him, and for him as well. But I said none of those things.

Remembrancy - Review

"A story about the longing for home even when it’s not perfect or you don’t feel worthy of it, No Place Like Here is a poignant and moving story. . . . Using touches from Hansel and Gretel, Christina June gives readers another engaging book with a young heroine whose journey to obtain her deepest with, to go home again, finds her strength and individualism. Young readers will enjoy this summer read with a memorable setting, plenty of conflict, and an ending that offers the promise of wishes realized."

Moonlight Rendezvous - Review

"No Place Like Here is a thought-provoking coming of age story of finding your path in life when your parents want you to be something that you’re not. . . . was a story that made me laugh and cry at times and I hope everyone gets a chance to read this beautifully written story."

JeanBookNerd - Guest Post

RANDOM FACTS ABOUT NO PLACE LIKE HERE

1. When I was in 5th grade, my whole class went to a team-building camp overnight. Sweetwater Overlook in the book was inspired by that trip.

2. Ashyn collects quotes and so do I. I've had a quote journal since I was 14. . .

Andi's Young Adult Books - Review

"I do love to read coming-of-age YA novels, so I was intrigued by the blurb to this book. I was also intrigued by the idea of it being related to the tale of Hansel and Gretel. I have to admit that I had a hard time following that parallel, but it has been years since I last read that. But I didn't need the connection to appreciate this book and inhale it in one sitting. . . . As expected, Ashlyn goes through incredible growth and discovers so much about herself and her strengths. She develops incredible leadership skills and forges relationships with some people she may not have otherwise. I love watching her journey and how she grows."

The Bent Bookworm - Review

"No Place Like Here was so much more than I expected! I went into it thinking I was getting a somewhat fluffy summer camp novel (at only 272 pages I finished it in half a shift at work – yes, my job is that slow). While there were fluffy aspects, it was so much deeper and touched my heart in ways I was completely surprised by."

Ghoulish Life & Reviews - Spotlight

Heidi Reads... - Review

"I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book after reading on a different review that there's not a big focus on romance. The author dealt so well with the themes and I was captivated as I read about Ashlyn's journey that was at times difficult, uncomfortable, healing, and empowering. . . . A lovely story of becoming self-aware and choosing to be strong in the circumstances we are given."

onemused - Review

"Overall, this was a really fun YA contemporary about being yourself that could appeal to a wide audience (I think even older middle grade readers would enjoy this one). There are some fantastic themes/messages herein, and this would be a wonderful book to grab on the way to the beach this summer!"

Confessions of a YA Reader - Excerpt

“So, it’s all decided.”

“All decided,” I echoed with zero enthusiasm. I knew better than to complain further. The sureness in his voice and the fact that he wasn’t trying to convince me that spending my summer in the middle of the woods was a good idea just proved how much he was still in charge. Even when he was about to be locked up.

“You’ll have fun, Ashlyn. This place looks like a stand-up operation. You’ll love it. Hannah wouldn’t go back for a second year if it wasn’t great.”

Hannah and I are not the same kind of girl, I didn’t say. But for my father to know that, he would’ve had to have read the annual holiday newsletter and I would’ve bet my college fund that he hadn’t taken the time to read it further than to confirm that his brother and his family were alive and kicking. He would also have had to pay attention to me beyond making sure my report card was flawless, my clothes were acceptable, and my posture was straight.

Paper, Ink & Lizard - Review

"Ashlyn’s journey from a quiet, apathetic girl to someone brave enough to speak up for others was excellently executed. The subtle arc was just enough to show change, without making her instantly turn around like some books I’ve read. Change is a slow process, one foot at a time, and No Place Like Here shows that perfectly.

Overall, I enjoyed the book immensely, and now I’m adding Christina June to my list of favorite authors!"

Hallie Reads - Excerpt

“Bad news travels at the speed of light around here, I guess,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady.

On a scale from one to ten, my year at Blue Valley Academy earned a five. I’d managed to get good grades and do well in activities, but I hadn’t really made friends. Plenty of acquaintances, but not friends. I wasn’t surprised. The other girls were mostly from small towns nearby, while I was the “city snob,” as I’d overheard one girl saying in the hallway. No one had been rude to my face, and some had been pleasant—Cassie was on the nicer side, for sure—but I wasn’t invited on weekend trips home and no one decorated my door on my birthday. I couldn’t really blame them. Trying to break into any clique during junior year, when everyone else had known each other since birth, was nearly impossible.

“So, it’s true?”

“It seems that way.” My face was blank. I didn’t know Cassie well enough to trust her with the fear and confusion that was hiding behind my emotionless mask.

Red Headed Book Lady - Review

". . . I loved the characters and I especially loved the setting!! . . . I enjoyed this story and I strongly recommend it."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

No Place Like Here By Christina June Young Adult Contemporary Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 288 Pages May 21st 2019 by Blink

From Christina June, author of It Started with Goodbye and Everywhere You Want to Be, comes No Place Like Here, a modern twist on Hansel and Gretel.

Ashlyn Zanotti has big plans for the summer. She's just spent a year at boarding school and can't wait to get home. But when Ashlyn's father is arrested for tax evasion and her mother enters a rehab facility for "exhaustion," a.k.a. depression, her life is turned upside down.

The cherry on top? Ashlyn's father sends her to work with a cousin she doesn't even know at a rustic team-building retreat center in the middle of nowhere. A self-proclaimed "indoor girl," not even Ash's habit of leaving breadcrumb quotes--inspirational sayings she scribbles everywhere--can help her cope.

With a dangerously careless camp manager doling out grunt work, an overbearing father trying to control her even from prison, and more than a little boy drama to struggle with, the summer is full of challenges. And Ashlyn must make the toughest decision of her life: keep quiet and follow her dad's marching orders, or find the courage to finally stand up to her father to have any hope of finding her way back home.

Fans looking for stories with elements of drama, romance, friendship, and an unflinching look into navigating and improving even the most difficult parent-teen relationships need look no further.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository│Kobo

Bookstagram Tour

May 28th: @read.and.wander @suziewaltner May 29th: @StackingMyBookShelves @singinglibrarianbooks May 30th: @onemused @heidireadsblog May 31st: @hellojennyreads @mamasreadingcorner June 1st: @savingsinseconds @countrygalsbookblog

Other Books by the Author

About the Author

Christina June writes young adult contemporary fiction when she’s not writing college recommendation letters during her day job as a school counselor. She loves the little moments in life that help someone discover who they’re meant to become – whether it’s her students or her characters. Christina is a voracious reader, loves to travel, and hopes to one day be bicoastal – the east coast of the US and the east coast of Scotland. She lives in Virginia with her husband and daughter. She is the author of IT STARTED WITH GOODBYE, EVERYWHERE YOU WANT TO BE, and NO PLACE LIKE HERE.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│Blink

Release Blitz Giveaway

1 winner will receive a print copy of NO PLACE LIKE HERE, a poster, and a book plate US only Ends June 5, 2019

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Grab Our Button!

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Christian & Clean Fiction Summer Reading Safari Sponsor Registration Now Available

5/24/2019
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The past few years have been such a blast!  Welcome to CFSRS's third year!

SPONSOR REGISTRATION is now available for this fun summer reading event. Registration is available through 06.15.2019.

This year we have three different activities a eading challenge, a Facebook group challenge, and an Instagram challenge.  Authors may pick and choose which events they are interested in participating in.  For more information, visit the CFSRS blog HERE.
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No Place Like Here by Christina June -- Blog Tour Review + Giveaway

5/22/2019
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On Tour with Prism Book Tours

About the Book

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No Place Like Here By Christina June
Young Adult Contemporary
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 288 Pages
May 21st 2019 by Blink

From Christina June, author of It Started with Goodbye and Everywhere You Want to Be, comes No Place Like Here, a modern twist on Hansel and Gretel.

Ashlyn Zanotti has big plans for the summer. She's just spent a year at boarding school and can't wait to get home. But when Ashlyn's father is arrested for tax evasion and her mother enters a rehab facility for "exhaustion," a.k.a. depression, her life is turned upside down.

The cherry on top? Ashlyn's father sends her to work with a cousin she doesn't even know at a rustic team-building retreat center in the middle of nowhere. A self-proclaimed "indoor girl," not even Ash's habit of leaving breadcrumb quotes--inspirational sayings she scribbles everywhere--can help her cope.

With a dangerously careless camp manager doling out grunt work, an overbearing father trying to control her even from prison, and more than a little boy drama to struggle with, the summer is full of challenges. And Ashlyn must make the toughest decision of her life: keep quiet and follow her dad's marching orders, or find the courage to finally stand up to her father to have any hope of finding her way back home.
​
Fans looking for stories with elements of drama, romance, friendship, and an unflinching look into navigating and improving even the most difficult parent-teen relationships need look no further.
Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository│Kobo

Other Books by the Author

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About the Author

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Christina June writes young adult contemporary fiction when she’s not writing college recommendation letters during her day job as a school counselor. She loves the little moments in life that help someone discover who they’re meant to become – whether it’s her students or her characters. Christina is a voracious reader, loves to travel, and hopes to one day be bicoastal – the east coast of the US and the east coast of Scotland. She lives in Virginia with her husband and daughter. She is the author of IT STARTED WITH GOODBYE, EVERYWHERE YOU WANT TO BE, and NO PLACE LIKE HERE.
​Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│Blink

Review

Author Christina June has written a deep, powerful, and heart-wrenching story in her novel, No Place Like Here.  This is the story of a teenager who is dealing with past mistakes and punishment for those mistakes as her family life falls apart.  It’s about the rifts between parent and daughter due to past mistakes.  But it’s also about the power of striving to do and become better, forgiveness, and of trying again to become a family unit.  Teens and adults alike will be drawn to this tender and emotional story.  This is one of those stories that gives readers all the feels.  Readers will absolutely not want to put down this novel inspired by the tale of Hansel and Gretl.
 
Genre: young adult, contemporary, realistic fiction, retelling
Publisher: Blink
Publication date: May 21, 2019
Number of pages: 272
 
A print review copy of this book was provided by the publisher via Prism Book Tours and an e-copy of the book was provided by the author through NetGalley via JustRead Publicity Tours.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Giveaway

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​1 winner will receive a print copy of NO PLACE LIKE HERE, a poster, and a book plate. US only.  Ends June 5, 2019
Enter the giveaway HERE.

Check out the Bookstagram Tour too!

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Tour Schedule

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1 Comment

Within These Lines by Stephanie Morrill -- Blog + Review Tour Review + Giveaway

3/9/2019
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​Welcome to the Blog & Review Tour - and Giveaway - for Within These Lines by Stephanie Morrill, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

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Title: Within These Lines
Author: Stephanie Morrill
Publisher: Blink YA
Genre: Historical Young Adult Fiction
Release Date: March 5, 2019

When Evalina Cassano and Taichi Hamasaki are torn apart by the events following the attack on Pearl Harbor, they must fight if they want any hope of returning to one another before World War II steals their future together. Within These Lines is one unflinching, haunting, historical novel you don’t want to miss; perfect for fans of Monica Hesse, Ruta Sepetys, and Elizabeth Wein.

Evalina Cassano’s life in an Italian-American family living in San Francisco in 1941 is quiet and ordinary until she falls in love with Taichi Hamasaki, the son of Japanese immigrants. Despite the scandal it would cause and that inter-racial marriage is illegal in California, Evalina and Taichi vow they will find a way to be together. But anti-Japanese feelings erupt across the country after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and Taichi and his family are forced to give up their farm and move to a Japanese-American internment camp.

Degrading treatment makes life at Manzanar Relocation Center difficult. Taichi’s only connection to the outside world is treasured letters from Evalina. Feeling that the only action she can take to help Taichi is to speak out against injustice, Evalina becomes increasingly vocal at school and at home. Meanwhile, inside Manzanar, fighting between different Japanese-American factions arises. Taichi begins to doubt he will ever leave the camp alive.
With tensions running high and their freedom on the line, Evalina and Taichi must hold true to their ideals and believe in their love to make a way back to each other against unbelievable odds.
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Within These Lines:
  • Is a young adult historical novel set in the World War II era
  • Contains themes of love, separation, social justice, war, and diversity
  • Perfect for junior high and high school students
  • A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection
PURCHASE LINKS:
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Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository | Christian Book | iTunes

About the Author

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​Stephanie Morrill writes books about girls who are on an adventure to discover their unique place in the world. She is the author of several contemporary young adult series, as well as the 1920s mystery, The Lost Girl of Astor Street, and the WWII era romance, Within These Lines. Since 2010, Stephanie has been encouraging the next generation of writers at her website, GoTeenWriters.com. She lives in the Kansas City area, where she loves plotting big and small adventures to enjoy with her husband and three children. You can connect with Stephanie and learn more about her books at StephanieMorrill.com, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
CONNECT WITH THE AUTHOR:
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website | facebook | twitter | instagram

Review

In her story Within These Lines, author Stephanie Morrill has written a beautifully captivating story that readers will immediately be fascinated by.  Morrill has taken on a hard topic with a story that story shows the harshness and the struggles of Japanese immigrants and tragically beautiful story of a forbidden love between a Japanese man and an Italian-American woman.  Readers will consume this well-researched, deep, reach, and beautifully haunting historical romance.  This is a strong and powerful story that will leave a mark on the heart of all who read it! 
 
Genre: young adult, historical, romance, WWII
Publisher: Blink
Publication date: March 5, 2019
Number of pages: 352
 
An e-review copy of this book was provided by the author’s launch team via NetGalley and a print copy via JustRead Tours.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Giveaway

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(1) Grand Prize winner will win a release copy of Within These Lines & a special designed poster of Within These Lines from the publisher, Blink YA. Featured quote on poster: "Be Brave Enough to Care and Bold Enough to Act"

(5) First Prize winners will each with a special designed poster of Within These Lines from the publisher, Blink YA. Featured quote on poster: "Be Brave Enough to Care and Bold Enough to Act"
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Be sure to check out each stop on the Bookstagram Tour and (upcoming) Takeover Tour, as well as this tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway began at midnight March 5, 2019 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 18, 2019. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Due to shipping cost, only US mailing addresses valid. For our giveaway rules and policy, click HERE.
Enter the giveaway HERE.

Tour Schedule

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
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Be sure to stop at the following tours for more chances to win!
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Check out the Bookstagram Tour HERE.
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Check out the Takeover Tour HERE.
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Pretty in Punxsutawney by Laurie Boyle Crompton -- Review

12/11/2018

About the Book

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A mashup of Groundhog Day and Pretty in Pink, the book stars a senior who is forced to relive the first day at her new school in an endless loop. Andie is convinced she needs true love's kiss to break the curse, but instead discovers how a high school filled with cliques and misfits can find common ground despite everyone's differences. Publication is set for January 2019.
​GOODREADS | AMAZON

About the Author

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Laurie Boyle Crompton is the YA author of the upcoming PRETTY IN PUNXSUTAWNEY (Blink/HarperCollins 2019) as well as ADRENALINE CRUSH (Macmillan/2014, Square Fish/2016), BLAZE (or Love in the Time of Supervillains), THE REAL PROM QUEENS OF WESTFIELD HIGH and LOVE AND VANDALISM (Sourcebooks/2013, 2014, 2017). Growing up in ‘Pennsyltucky’ in the 1980s, Laurie couldn't wait to escape rural life. After saving up her tips from waitressing at a local greasy spoon at 18 she packed up her acid wash jeans and moved to NY. Where everyone else had stopped wearing acid wash.

She graduated first in her class from St. John’s University with a BA in English and Journalism. Since then she’s written for national magazines like ALLURE, survived a teaching stint at an all-boy high school, and appeared on Good Day New York several times as a Toy Expert. And yes, ‘toy expert’ is an actual profession. Really.

She has lived in places like Orlando, Florida where she and her husband spent all of their spare time and money visiting theme parks before moving to the Cotswolds in England for six months, which was every bit as cool as that sounds. The Cromptons are now back in New York where their two children resent never going to Disney.

​Laurie occasionally enjoys hanging out in fields of blooming flowers and also refering to herself in the third person.
​GOODREADS | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | | INSTAGARAM | AMAZON | BLOG | WEBSITE

Review

In her novel, Pretty in Puxsutawneye, author Laurie Boyle Crompton has created a story that teens will enjoy.  An excellent mash-up combination of Groundhog Day and Pretty in Pink, this story, although a little bit crude in the beginning, is overall an engaging and captivating that teens will enjoy.  Although the films the story is based on are a bit older and some teens may not recognized them unless introduced to them by their parents, this story is one that will definitely leave readers laughing throughout the entire book.  Readers that enjoy a light and hearty teen romance will like this story.
 
Genre: young adult, romance
Publisher: Blink
Publication date: January 15, 2019
Number of pages: 304
 
A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher via JustRead Publicity Tours.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
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My Hands Hold My Story by Bethany Swafford -- Blog Tour Review + Giveaway

11/16/2018
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About the Book

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For fans of A Knight of Silence and Read My Lips comes a YA historical western full of grit and heart...
 
In 1874, Ivy Steele's deafness is more than a handicap. It's a disease. Surrounded by a family that doesn't understand her, she's learned to cope and find solace where she can. Then, the unexpected happens. Her aunt dies, and her uncle sends her away to rejoin her father's family in Montana.Left to fend for herself, after the companion hired to escort her abandons her, sixteen-year-old Ivy faces continual hardship and danger. Several men see an unaccompanied Ivy as a flower ripe for the picking, and things only get worse when masked men hold up their stagecoach.

Barely scraping through, Ivy makes it to Montana with her nerves shaken and what little money she has in her boot. Expecting a peaceful if not affectionate welcome, Ivy finds herself in greater hardship than she's ever known.
Surrounded by a stepfamily that hates her, and flung into a life where hearing is vital, Ivy finds solace in a handsome cowboy named Remy. But things with her new family are not what they seem. And Ivy is about to find out that the danger she faced on the journey west, has followed her to Montana...
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Bethany Swafford dazzles with her stunning young adult debut, introducing a strong heroine, the hardships of frontier life, shocking twists, and a slow-burning romance that will leave you wanting more.

Third place winner of the 2018 Rosemary Award
​~ Universal Amazon Link ~ 
~ SLB Affiliated Link ~
~ Goodreads ~

About the Author

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For as long as she can remember, Bethany Swafford has loved reading books. That love of words extended to writing as she grew older and when it became more difficult to find a ‘clean’ book, she determined to write her own. Among her favorite authors is Jane Austen, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Georgette Heyer.
 
When she doesn’t have pen to paper (or fingertips to laptop keyboard), she can generally be found with a book in hand. In her spare time, Bethany reviews books for a book site called More Than A Review.
Connect with the author:
​~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~
~ Instagram ~ Twitter ~

Review

In Bethany Swafford’s My Hands Hold My Story, she has written a powerful and inspiring story that will touch the heart of readers!  This story is of the struggles and prejudices of being deaf in a time that it was not truly accepted.  It’s about struggling to find a way to communicate so that everyone understands each other.  Swaffords page turning story is beautiful and touching in a way that will leave readers coming back for more.  Readers that enjoy young adult historical westerns will delight in this moving novel.
 
Genre: young adult, historical, western
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: September 18, 2018
Number of pages: 268
 
A review copy of this book was provided by Loving the Book.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Giveaway

$5 Amazon Gift Card
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Enter the giveaway HERE.

Tour Schedule

To view our blog schedule and follow along with this tour visit our Official Event page ​
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