Sunday, March 26, 2023

About the Book

Book: Every Flower of the Field

Author: Sara Davison

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: February 15, 2023

Safe is the most dangerous feeling of all.

For as long as she can remember, Rose Galway has been a captive, controlled by one man or another. To her, though, God is the one holding the keys, refusing to set her free despite the desperate pleas she has sent heavenward.

Detective Laken Jones has known hardship too, including the daily trauma of racism. Still, nothing he has gone through compares to what Rose has endured. He wants nothing more than for her to experience hope and healing and maybe even happiness in her life.

But first he has to find her.

Laken is willing to risk everything to set Rose free. And to help her find her way to God. Even if that means letting go of her—and the future he envisions for the two of them—forever.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Sara Davison is the author of four romantic suspense series—The Seven Trilogy, The Night Guardians, The Rose Tattoo Trilogy, and two sparrows for a penny, as well as the standalone, The Watcher. A finalist for more than a dozen national writing awards, she is a Word, Cascade, and two-time Carol Award winner. She currently resides in Ontario with her husband, Michael, and their three mostly grown kids. Like every good Canadian, she loves coffee, hockey, poutine, and apologizing for no particular reason. Get to know Sara better at www.saradavison.org and @sarajdavison.

More from Sara

Neil Gaiman once said, “Fiction gives us empathy. It puts us inside the minds of other people, gives us the gift of seeing the world through their eyes…” To me, that is one of the primary reasons to read and to write fiction. Every time I write a scene with a character, it’s my job as the author to put myself inside that character, to think what they are thinking and feel what they are feeling, and to draw readers inside that character too.

When what that character is experiencing is deeply painful or traumatic, that job can be extremely difficult. In my series, two sparrows for a penny, the main characters of the first two books, Every Star in the Sky and Every Flower of the Field, have has been caught up in sex trafficking for several years. What they experienced wasn’t easy to write about, especially since, although Tala’s and Rose’s stories are fictional, I am painfully aware that so many women have been or are currently in the same horrific situation.

It may be difficult to read about too, although the stories also contain humor and love and family and, ultimately, hope. Still, it is so important that stories like these are told. If Neil Gaiman is right, reading about what others are going through increases our empathy, our compassion, for their plight. And empathy and compassion are catalysts for action. If we turn away from suffering, pretend it doesn’t exist, we do nothing to help alleviate it. But if we face it, acknowledge it, we might find in ourselves the courage to take a stand against it, to do what we can to help, to let these women know that they are not alone. That they are precious to God and they are precious to us.

The title of this series is two sparrows for a penny, which comes from Matthew 10:29: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” Every human being caught up in the unspeakably heinous world of trafficking is loved by God. He sees them and knows what they are going through and, one day, he will mete out perfect justice to all who perpetuate this evil. My hope and prayer for these stories is that readers will be compelled to pray for the women and some men who are victims of this practice and maybe even become involved, through a reputable agency, in working to help free those in captivity.

And I also hope and pray readers will be reminded that, whatever they are going through in life, they are never alone either. As God knows the name of every star and takes care even of the flowers of the field, He knows every one of our names and watches over us as well. Tala and Rose finally come to realize that, even in the midst of horrific circumstances, they were never alone. God saw them, remembered them, brought them out of captivity, and will continue to walk alongside them as they begin their long journeys of healing and hope.

And He promises over and over in His Word that He will do the same for every one of us.

MY REVIEW

There is so much I loved about this book that I’m not sure I can express it in a few paragraphs. The topic of the story is a hard one to read about but is very much in the news. Human trafficking is difficult to comprehend and the author does an exceptional job of giving readers a realistic look at what it is like. To think that someone could be snatched off the street and treated so horrific makes me cry.

I loved Rose and how strong she is. Being captive for years and still she holds on with this deep hope that someday she will be free. The story is riveting when a rescue is made and I loved how the author kept me on the edge of my seat. The danger Rose was in was explosive and at times I wasn’t sure if she would survive. She has been through so much torture and emotional mind games, yet she has this strength that impresses me. Perhaps she is angry with God right now, but there are people surrounding her that will be able to encourage her to trust God and rekindle her relationship with Him.

Laken is a detective that is on scene when Rose is discovered locked in a room with explosives just outside the door. What I liked about him was how he stayed right outside the door and reassured Rose that he was not going anywhere till she was safe. You can feel his inner turmoil as he tries to comfort Rose. He know the danger that she faces but he will not give up.

I loved how this story shows how important it is to help others, reach out when you need support and never give up. Laken is not afraid to show his faith and when he calls out to God to protect Rose I could almost hear his voice crack. Laken believes that God is merciful and forgiving. He is determined that Rose will finally be able to feel safe but he still needs to catch one more person that was involved.

The story is an adrenaline rush as Rose is once again taken away by one of the men who has held her captive. She thought she was safe at a house where a police officer lived but this nan is devious and convinces Rose to go with him . He uses her compassion for the other girls he has to get her to walk away from those who were protecting her. It is a race to find her as Laken is losing it. He was so sure she was safe but Rose leaves to protect the others that are being held.

The ending is good and we see how Rose starts to turn to God for help. It will take her time to heal but first she needs to know that she is free from torment. God never left her and each day she will heal a bit more. There is an attraction between Rose and Laken but they both know they need to take it slow. Emotional healing will come as Rose releases the pain she has gone through and learn to trust God. She is finally free and can once again see the beauty in the flowers and butterflies that God has created.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 23

Lily’s Book Reviews, March 23

An Author’s Take, March 24

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 25

Texas Book-aholic, March 26

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, March 26

Betti Mace, March 27

The Sacred Line, March 27

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 28

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 29

deb’s Book Review, March 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 31

For Him and My Family, March 31

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 2

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 4

Blogging With Carol, April 5

Rebecca Tews, April 5

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sara is givinga way the grand prize package of a book-related stained glass window hanging and a paperback copy of Every Flower of the Field!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/24ff1/every-flower-of-the-field-celebration-tour-giveaway

Friday, March 24, 2023

About the Book

Book: The Last Chance Cowboy

Author: Jody Hedlund

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: February 14, 2023

With danger drawing ever closer, their only hope of saving their futures lies in each other.

As a midwife, Catherine Remington is successful in bringing new life into the world, but she’s failed one too many times in finding true love. When she’s accused of a murder she didn’t commit, she’s forced to flee to Colorado to honor a patient’s dying wish by delivering a newborn infant to his father.

The repentant prodigal Dylan McQuaid is finally back in Fairplay. As sheriff, he’s doing his best to prove to the town he’s a changed man and worthy of their trust. When a woman shows up with an infant son he didn’t know he had, Dylan is left with only complicated choices on what to do next.

Having grown attached to Dylan’s son, Catherine doesn’t want to part ways with the infant, but what she doesn’t bargain for is how easily she’ll fall for the charming sheriff, or how quickly the past will catch up with her and put their love and lives in danger.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Jody Hedlund (www.jodyhedlund.com) is the bestselling author of over 30 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats.

More from Jody

What drew you to Colorado as a setting for your latest historical romance series?

When I was a child, I lived up in the high country in Granby in Middle Park. Then my husband and I lived in Denver for a few years while he went to grad school. So in some ways, Colorado feels like home.

I was also drawn to writing about Colorado because of the ruggedness of the setting, especially in the 1800’s. It was difficult for those first settlers to survive in such a harsh and unforgiving place, especially without all the modern conveniences we’re used to.

Not only that, but I’m truly astounded by the beauty and majesty of the West. There’s nothing quite as stunning as the Rocky Mountains!

Why do you think readers always enjoy cowboy heroes?

I actually asked that question of readers and here are a couple of answers I received:

One reader said: I like their endurance and steadfastness. Their innate ability to deal with animals and athleticism to work in an outdoor environment that is many times unforgiving.

Another reader said: Cowboys protect each other, provide for their animals, help neighbors, and celebrate life. No matter how hard it is. They find happiness in the simple things of life. Determination, grit, are words to describe them. And love … oh yes how fiercely they love and protect their one and only.

I think the love of cowboys has to do with their reputation for their integrity and hard work ethic. Of course it doesn’t hurt that we think of most cowboys as hunks. Right

Are readers always promised a “happily ever after” in your novels? Why or why not?

As an avid reader of romance myself, I not only expect a HEA, it’s what I love! Since, I’m writing the books I would love to read, I wouldn’t ever be able to write anything but a HEA! I’m of the opinion that there are too many bittersweet and mediocre endings in real life. So with fiction, I want a book to inspire me and give me courage that I can be a better person. I hope readers feel the same with my novels!

When did you first begin writing stories?

I’m pretty sure I was born with a pen in one hand and a notebook in the other. Since my earliest days, I loved making up stories and writing them down. The passion followed me into adulthood. And after many twists and turns along the path, I’ve finally been able to channel that passion into a full time writing career.

What was the name of your first book?

The Preacher’s Bride was my first published book.

How did you get into the Christian/historical fiction genre?

I love reading historicals, so naturally that’s what I’m drawn to write. I’m fascinated with all of the things that happen in other times and places that seem so foreign to us now. I really appreciate when historical facts are woven into books seamlessly so that I’m learning but don’t really realize I am. And I hope that I can do that in my books too.

Who was your favorite author when you were younger?

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery was one of my favorites as a child because it played a role in developing my creativity as a writer. (Followed closely by A Little Princessand Little Women because they also featured strong, creative girls.)

How would you describe your writing style in three words?

Sweet, clean, with sizzle

How many books have you published so far?

Over 40

Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

When I’m in first draft mode, I give myself a daily word count six days a week, and then I make myself write until I hit my goal even if that means I have to write all day and into the evening (most days that doesn’t happen though, thankfully). I’m pretty tough on myself about making my daily goals!

What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

I believe every writer should set realistic goals for whatever life season they’re in. For example, when my kids were younger and I was in the thick of homeschooling, I set my daily word count goal at 500 words a day. That was realistic for me at that stage. I made myself write that amount every day so that I built good habits of self-discipline and focus.

What do you snack on or drink while writing?

Coffee all the way! Black and lots of it!

How do you overcome writer’s block? Because of my stringent daily word count goal (and not allowing myself to veer from it), I push through writer’s block by simply writing whatever comes to mind, even if it’s not particularly inspiring.

Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

I start my writing day by re-reading a portion of what I wrote the previous day. I edit that lightly before moving on. But mostly I wait until the end to turn on my internal editor.

What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

It’s normal and natural to get excited about finishing a first book. But I’ve seen many writers eager to publish (and even rush into publishing) that first book. It’s almost always wise to wait to seek publication (or indie publish) until you have completed several books, taken classes, read writing craft books, and had critique partners.

How can readers connect with you?

To stay up to date, I invite readers to join my Facebook Reader Room where I post the most relevant book news and interact with readers. Or readers can visit my website at jodyhedlund.com

MY REVIEW

The story is a continuation in a series so it may be best to read the others first if you want to catch up with what has happened. I didn’t feel lost reading this book out of order though. It is obvious that Dylan has been not such a kind man in the past. We discover in this story that he has changed and now is the sheriff. He has put all the past behind him and now upholds the law. He is in for a big surprise when his past meets him face to face.

Catherine is a midwife who is very compassionate about helping women give birth. She had no idea that the child she just delivered would change her life. Without going into much detail, she honor’s the baby’s mother’s last wish. Finding the baby’s father was also a way to escape from town when she witnesses a horrible crime. As she travels to Colorado she hopes she can keep the baby and herself safe.

The initial meeting between Catherine, Dylan and his son are bittersweet. She has done what was requested of her, but how can she leave this precious child she has fallen in love with? Dylan seems to accept the baby and wants to do the right thing. I don’t understand why Catherine didn’t figure out that Dylan thought she was a woman he had been with back in the day.

I did like how protective Dylan was with his son and Catherine. He takes his new family in and without question makes things right. As the wedding is going on, didn’t Catherine wonder why he was marrying her, a complete stranger? I had trouble with this part and knew that somehow this secret would come out. There are a few times in the story where I thought the author focused on the attraction between Dylan and Catherine a little too much. The author describes Dylan’s thoughts about his wife that were a bit uncomfortable for me. I will leave that part for readers to decide on their own.

The ending was nice and there is a clear faith element in the story that illustrates forgiveness, trust, family and love. The story does reunite a family where a bond is formed. They look out for each other and I liked that even though rumors were unkind towards Catherine, her new family stood beside her. One thing to note was how Dylan reacted when he found out that Catherine had deceived him. It is a good lesson on forgiving and loving unconditionally.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, March 25

For Him and My Family, March 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 27

Karen Baney Reviews, March 27

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

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 28

Connie’s History Classroom, March 29

Remembrancy, March 30

Holly’s Book Corner, March 30

By the Book, March 31

Back Porch Reads, March 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 1

Mary Hake, April 1

She Lives to Read, April 2

Book Looks by Lisa, April 2

Daysong Reflections, April 3

Cover Lover Book Review, April 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 4

EmpowerMoms, April 4

Blogging With Carol, April 5

SusanLovesBooks, April 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 6

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, April 6

Splashes of Joy, April 7

Vicky Sluiter, April 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jody is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of all five books in the COLORADO COWBOYS series: A Cowboy for Keeps, The Heart of a Cowboy, To Tame a Cowboy, Falling for the Cowgirl, and The Last Chance Cowboy!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/24ff8/the-last-chance-cowboy-celebration-tour-giveaway

Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward Epic Book Launch

About the Author

Book: Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward

Authors: Mark Henderson and Michael Snuffer

Genre: Non-fiction; Interpersonal Relations; Religion

Release date: April 13, 2023

WHY AM I SO MISUNDERSTOOD? I am only trying to do what is right! Of course, I forgive, but I can’t seem to get past the pain. God seems distant. Does he even care about me?

Do any of these questions hit close to home? It may surprise you that the underlying cause is often hidden unforgiveness. Our closest relationships, emotional health, and perhaps even our faith seem to be crumbling around us, but most of us have no idea that forgiveness is the way forward. If we are honest, we don’t even know what forgiveness is. We may have a vague idea that it has something to do with “forgetting” or “letting go” but would be hard-pressed to come up with a working definition. Worse yet, we have no idea how to practice forgiveness in a way that brings lasting relief from the hurt we carry. Most of us are not trying to hang on to the pain, but freedom is elusive.

Freedom from your pain is within reach! Forgiveness is not a vague, esoteric concept, nor is it a lofty, out-of-reach ideal. Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward digs into the biblical definition of forgiveness, tells real stories of real people who have found healing, clears up some huge misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, and teaches us how topractice forgiveness. If we do not address the wounds of our past, they will shape our future. God has provided a powerful tool to help us find freedom—forgiveness is the surprising way forward!

BOOK EXERPT

One which—for a long time—I did not understand. Here is the statement: “This is how my

heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your

heart” (Matthew 18:35, NIV).

Whoa! Seriously? What does that mean? Because this guy “was handed over to the jailers

to be tortured!” The New American Standard Bible translation sounds even worse. It says

the servant was “handed over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed

him.”

Beatings and torture were not an unusual part of the first century prison

experience. The New Testament records how jailers often beat and tortured people

who were arrested.

Missed Any Excerpts, Go Here

***INSERT LINKS HERE***

Mark Henderson received a Masters of Pastoral Counseling, was a licensed counselor, and served as a pastor of counseling for twenty years.

In Memory of Mark Henderson

Mark David Henderson, co-author of this book, passed away from cancer as this book was being finalized. Mark was a loving husband, father, and friend. He touched lives all over the world through his counseling ministry and often said he had a front row seat to God’s miracles. He always made sure the individual knew it was God’s healing, and Mark was simply the servant. His desire was to take what he learned and share it with others, which is the reason for this book.

Michael Snuffer has ministered as a counselor for more than ten years. Mark and Mike founded Equip2CounselTM, a ministry dedicated to providing simple yet powerful counseling tools globally to ministers.

Thursday, March 23, 2023

About the Book

Book: Iron

Author: Madisyn Carlin

Genre: Christian Fantasy/Fairytale Retelling

Release date: September 30, 2022

Enforcing justice comes with a price.

Detective Redwyn “Red” Deathan will stop at nothing to uncover those behind the ruthless kidnappings of multiple children. But things are not as they seem, and Red’s efforts are thwarted at every turn. With each discovery the danger grows, putting Red and the lives of those she cares about at risk. Can she reveal the mastermind’s identity before she herself becomes a target?

IRON is a Christian New Adult, Fantasy Fairytale Retelling

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Madisyn Carlin is a Christian, homeschool graduate, blogger, voracious bookdragon, and author. When not spending time with her family or trekking through the mountains, she weaves tales of redemption, faith, and action.

Want to connect? https://linktr.ee/madisyncarlin

More from Madisyn

There are many original Cinderella stories, from all cultures and languages. Perhaps the two most common tales, however, are Frenchman Charles Perrault’s (also called Cendrillon) and the German Brothers Grimm’s Aschenputtel. The majority of these originals, and Brothers Grimm’s in particular, are not the sparkles-and-magic versions we are more familiar with. They are darker, bloodier, and deadlier, though they still possess an amazing display of creativity and storytelling.

The iconic, classical Disney retelling drew from Perrault’s version. I based IRON off a blend of Aschenputtel and Perrault’s, with very little influence garnered from Disney’s. Although I wanted it to be obvious IRON is a fairy tale retelling, I also wanted to put an often-unfound spin on it, which is where Redwyn and her occupation shine through. In addition, I am a firm believer there is no such thing as ”love at first sight”, also called ”insta love”, which is quite common in many fairy tales and retellings.

Instead, I wanted to present a nonmagical retelling based on faith, family, and bravery. Perhaps that is why this story turned out rawer and much more touching than I ever imagined. Within the pages of this book loyalty drives characters to step outside their comfortable boundaries and preferences, desperation reminds them why they need God, and bravery takes root even in those who thought themselves hopeless cowards.

Heavy faith elements, feathers, cranky horses, wolves, sinister plots, a creepy forest, and more take this story beyond the typical plot found in Cinderella retellings. There’s also humor, sarcasm, and a feisty detective who can’t quite grasp the concept of tactfulness.

So, if you enjoy fairy tale retellings with a plentitude of faith, humor, and action, IRON might be the book for you.

You can find IRON’s inspiration board here.

MY REVIEW

With a palace, lords, ladies and a beautifully crafted story the author takes us on a journey where danger awaits for some. I loved that this is a retelling of Cinderella. It is not the typical story you may think because it has much more imagination along with faith elements that explode across the pages.

I loved Red immediately with her fierce determination to find out who is behind the kidnappings of children. She has flaws which are explored in the story. I loved how Red was not shy about speaking up when needed and how vulnerable she is at times. I felt like she became this innocent child at moments where she didn’t feel loved. Why would she have those thoughts?

Chamonix is a beautiful addition to the story with poise and a gentle spirit. She does have some health issues that are explored in the story. I thought this was interesting and made for a more realistic feel to the character. She has a big burden of choosing who she will marry. It must be the right one so that the kingdom will not suffer. She doesn’t want to disappoint her parents so her decision will have to be slow and with thought to how it will affect others.

Carter is the best character in this story. He is friends with Red who make for many disagreements but fun interactions. Carter hides a secret which could end his friendship with Red. If only he could confide in her how awful his stepfather is to him maybe the truth would set him free. We see him struggle as he can’t understand why God would allow his parents to die. “Beginning” in the story is what is referred to as God and Carter is angry with him. So much heartache has caused him to question the Beginning. Will he find his faith again?

As I read the story I began to understand the relationship between Cinderella and the retelling where Carter is now the focus. He is badly mistreated by his stepbrothers and they have little respect for him. I couldn’t believe they expected him to stay up all night to tend to twenty horses. I admired Carter for his level head and how he did his job humbly.

The story deals with a sensitive subject of human trafficking in a gentle way. The kidnappings continue and Red is desperate for answers. Has Carter stumbled on the truth of who is behind the scheme to take children and possibly adults ? The tension mounts throughout the book and I was glued to my spot. I was intrigued with where the author would go and how an upcoming ball could change the lives of many.

Red questions her faith as she wonders who is in control when danger is upon her, Carter and the princess. Prayers are whispered as they all need help to survive what is before them. This story has been very intense at times but I adored how the author achieved a retelling of a classic and made it more relatable and filled with faith, hope and trust. Red is reminded that “shouldn’t we place our trust in Him without reservations?”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.