Search This Blog

Thursday, March 31, 2016

The imposter FB cover

Book Information

the imposterA heart once deceived should not be easily fooled again . . .
Katrina Stoltzfus thought she had life and love all figured out: she was going to marry John and live happily ever after. But as her plans crumble before her eyes, she struggles to face an uncertain future. When a widow asks for help starting a new business, Katrina quickly agrees. She needs time to heal her broken heart, to untangle her messy life, to find a purpose.
What she doesn’t need is attention from Andy Miller, a farmhand who arrives at the widow’s farm just when help is most needed–and who always seems to say the right thing and be in the right place, at the right time. Is Andy for real or too good to be true? She’s been deceived once before, and she isn’t planning on experiencing it again.

Guest  Post from Suzzanne Woods Fisher

If you think you have a pretty clear idea of what an Amish bishop is like—stern, authoritative, patriarchal?—have another think. David Stoltzfus in The Imposter is warm, kindhearted, a reluctant farmer, and quite attractive!
Sound like an unlikely character for an Amish novel? Maybe so, but David Stoltzfus is modeled after a bishop I met, years ago. This real-life bishop might be the most intelligent, thoughtful, spiritually sensitive, and well-read man I’ve ever met. We spent a morning talking Bonhoeffer in his Spartan living room, warmed by his woodstove.
I wanted to present the character of a bishop that best represented this man I’d grown to admire. So when it was time to create a proposal for a new series, I suggested ‘The Bishop’s Family,’ starring David Stoltzfus who was loosely based on this particular bishop.
Very loosely.
David Stoltzfus is a handsome, widowed father of six who runs a local bulk food store. His children are surprisingly nonconforming, outspoken, and fiercely protective of their clan. The real-life bishop is a farmer, happily married with four independently minded children, and looks…well, to be candid, he looks a little like Benjamin Franklin.
But here’s what they have in common: they both love to read, they love their families, and they love the work God has given them of tending a flock.
The Imposter begins as David Stoltzfus moves his family to Stoney Ridge for a fresh start, a new beginning. Things don’t start off well: his eldest daughter, Katrina, faces a crushing disappointment, his prodigal son Jesse has a bent for troublemaking, and then David realizes something fishy is going on in the little church.
A new life awaits the Stoltzfus family, but not the one they expected. Or wanted. But they are needed in Stoney Ridge, each one of them. Even Jesse. J
I hope you’ll feel as though you’ve made some new friends as you get to know David and his children. One thing I can promise: this bishop’s family will surprise you.
Happy Reading!
Warmly, Suzanne
www.suzannewoodsfisher.com

Author Information

suzanne-croppedSuzanne Woods Fisher is an award-winning, bestselling author whose most recent novels include Anna’s Crossing and The Inn at Eagle Hill series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and The Heart of the Amish. She lives in California. Learn more at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and follow Suzanne on Twitter @suzannewfisher.

Review.jpg

I was very intrigued by this book due to the title. How many of us have had imposters in our life? We think they are a perfect fit for us, then it turns out we were wrong. People can surprise us with their charm and somehow before we know it, we feel deceived, hurt and untrusting when they turn out to be an imposter. THE IMPOSTER draws on the emotions of several characters and gives us a glimpse into the flaws of people that seemed trustworthy but turned out to be quite the opposite.

What would you do it the love of your life wasn't who you thought they were? Works you give up and crawl into a shell or move forward and trust God ? Katrina finds herself asking these questions as she learns that the man she was to marry has deceived her. She is heartbroken to learn that her beau is set to marry someone else. When an opportunity arises to help a widow, Katrina along with her father decide she should go. Maybe this is just what she needs to clear her head and trust God for her new season. It's funny how we think when things are so bad, thst God always has a plan. Katrina will find herself wondering if she can truly trust her heart when someone new enters her life. Will this new man be a good, kind, hardworking and  trusting person? Is he the IMPOSTER?

There are several other characters that are intricate to the story. They each have a pivotal role in the story that seems to interweave as the author delivers an outstanding book that is filled with some funny moments which lighten the story a bit. It isn't easy to know for sure who the IMPOSTER is but as the story takes readers on twists and turns, you become so involved thst you can't put the book down. The author has started a new series that is sure to become a favorite as each character finds their way with help from scriptures placed gracefully throughout the story. I love how the author has a charming way of pointing her characters to God in a gentle way and gives readers an emotional journey that ends with hope, love and trust.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit for an honest review.

Giveaway

Suzanne is graciously giving away a Kindle Fire 7! Click below to enter!

Tour information:Blog Tour Stops

March 22: Quiet Quilter
March 23: Heidi Reads…
March 24: Splashes of Joy
March 24: Mary Hake
March 25: cherylbbookblog
March 25: The Power of Words
March 26: Just Commonly
March 27: Giveaway Lady
March 28: Lane Hill House
March 28: Marilyn Ridgeway 
March 29: Rhonda’s Doings
March 30: A Greater Yes
March 31: Texas Book-aholic
March 31: A Holland Reads
April 1: Bukwurmzzz


 Link to purchase bookhttp://amzn.to/1S8oHok

Wednesday, March 30, 2016


I always enjoy reading books from this author and couldn't wait to start. This is another big win for the author. She is consistent in her writing technique by giving readers wonderful story lines and characters we come to love or sometimes hate. I must admit I did have a few tears fall as I read this beautiful story that is a bit of the prodigal son returns meets Deadliest Catch.

Owen was the star hockey player who had it all. He was famous, nice looking and well recognized in the hockey league as a great player. One day all that changed and he runs from his troubles straight to a crabbing boat located in Alaska. This will not be an easy job as he boards the vessel ready to tackle  his new life. The authors description about crabbing was very well written and yes I thought of the shoe THE DEADLIEST CATCH as I read the riveting encounter experienced at sea. The sea is not nice and Owen finds that out quickly. Much to his surprise there is a woman on the boat. Her name is Scotty and just happens to be the captains daughter. What will happen as these two work together on the rough seas doing a dangerous job?

When Owen finds out that there is a big crisis at home, he decides to go and try to mend a relationship with his family. I won't say much about what brings Scotty home with Owen except to say this is one funny scene . Owen is so focused on getting her to follow him that he does something that shocks Scotty. When they arrive at his house, the welcome is somewhat cold from some members of the family. This is where the authors excellent writing skills shine. She is able to show a family in crisis yet willing to begin the process of forgiveness to Owen who left them without working things out. I have always heard the saying "You can never go home again." In this case that saying is wrong and as you read the story you see how a family comes together to help one of their own.

The family will be tested in their faith and struggle to overcome pain and hurt. Who can they turn to in their darkest hour? The author does a great job of showing the conflict between Owen and his brother. What secret will Owen discover? Will it push the brothers further apart or draw them closer? The book has several relationships that are worth following to see how God works things out . The key is to trust him , have faith and forgive.  I highly recommended this moving story about a family in crisis who turn to their faith for help.

I received a copy of this book from The Tyndale Blog Network for an honest review

CHANGE OF HEART by COURTNEY WALSH

Isn't it nice to think you have the perfect life? You are married to a senator , which spells  power to many. Evelyn is on cloud nine with a house that others dream of, clothes from only the best designers and moves in the most upstanding circles. Yes she thought she had it all until one day the world crashes in around her. How did she get to this point in her life? Why would she let a man control her almost like his puppet?

It looks like Evelyn or Evie to her friends needs a change in her life before her world tumbles out of control.
As more unsavory things are revealed  about her husband, an old friend shows up to help her out. Trevor has always been in love with Evie, but he stepped aside when Evie married his best friend. Now as more unsettling news turns up that devastes Evie, Trevor is there to help her out. Trevor is willing to stand with her and maybe just maybe have a chance at winning her love . . Will past  secrets keep Trevor and Evie apart?  The story is written very well and has characters thst you can relate to. It is a touching story of lost  love, second chances and a chance at true forgiveness. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and I encourage readers to grab their copy of the first one, PAPER HEARTS to add to their collection.

I received a copy of this book from Tyndale Blog Network for an honest review.

                Visit Courtney Walsh's website!

Tuesday, March 29, 2016


TAILSPIN by ELIZABETH GODDARD

Once again the author has written a super charged  action packed book that is hard to put down. I could feel the cold water as it splashed on Sylvies'  body as she swam in the ocean. The breathtaking scenes are so vivid you seem to be there as she scours underneath for any signs of life. The series , Mountain Cove continues with a superb cast of characters.

Sylvie is a scuba instructor who goes to a small town in Alaska to find out what happened to her mom. How can a plane just disappear without a trace?   Sylvie wants answers and will not stop until she gets them. Her character is a very strong determined young woman who will stop at nothing to find her mom.  The other main character, Will, is a bush pilot from Mountain Cove. He decides to fly over where his moms' plane went down  to see if there is anything the searchers missed. Is it a coincidence that Sylvie and Will are looking for the same downed plane? What happens to Sylvie when she is scuba diving where the plane went down? The details are so powerful that I could not stop reading. Is there someone who doesn't want Sylvie to find out the truth from that fateful day?

The book is masterfully written with intrigue , unforgettable action and twists that will surprise readers . I love how the author crafted a mystery with a bit of romance into the story. The story is not rushed and keeps readers interested with a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is one book that mystery lovers will not want to miss.

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.

Monday, March 28, 2016

 

vamps large banner new640Vamps, Villains and Vaudeville by Ellen Mansoor Collier

I love this series and going back to the Jazz era and Prohibition. ~Community Bookstop
VAMPS VILLAINS Vamps, Villains and Vaudeville (Jazz Age Mystery Series) (Volume 4) Cozy Mystery Publisher: DECODAME PRESS (August 5, 2015) Paperback: 250 pages ISBN-13: 978-0989417082 E-Book ASIN: B0111GYYYE goodreads-badge-add-plus

Synopsis

In 1920s Galveston, society reporter Jazz Cross is in for a surprise when she attends a traveling vaudeville show with her beau, Prohibition Agent James Burton, and discovers that an old flame acts in the production. That night, they find a stabbing victim behind the Oasis — her half-brother Sammy’s speakeasy — who’s identified as an actor in the troupe. When the victim disappears and later turns up dead, Jazz must help prove that Sammy wasn’t the killer.
Meanwhile, a ring of jewel thieves is turning up all over town, robbing rich tourists of their precious gems. After a second vaudeville actor is found dead, Jazz discovers that the events behind the scenes are much more interesting than the outdated acts onstage.
To make matters worse, Sammy’s old nemesis demands that he settles a score and forces him into yet another illegal scheme. Can Jazz help solve the murders and prove her brother’s innocence—so he can escape the Downtown Gang for good?
A historical Jazz Age mystery inspired by real-life Galveston gangs and local landmarks.
 

EllenSanLuisout[1]About The Author

Ellen Mansoor Collier is a Houston-based freelance magazine writer and editor whose articles and essays have been published in a variety of national magazines. Several of her short stories have appeared in Woman’s World. During college summers, she worked as a reporter for a Houston community newspaper and as a cocktail waitress, both jobs providing background experience for her Jazz Age mysteries.
A flapper at heart, she’s worked as a magazine editor/writer, and in advertising and public relations (plus endured a hectic semester as a substitute teacher). She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Magazine Journalism and served on UTmost, the college magazine and as president of WICI (Women in Communications).
FLAPPERS, FLASKS AND FOUL PLAY is her first novel, published in 2012, followed by the sequel, BATHING BEAUTIES, BOOZE AND BULLETS, released in May 2013. She lives in Houston with her husband and Chow mutts, and visits Galveston whenever possible.
“When you grow up in Houston, Galveston becomes like a second home. I had no idea this sleepy beach town had such a wild and colorful past until I began doing research, and became fascinated by the legends and stories of the 1920s. Finally I had to stop researching and start writing, trying to imagine a flapper’s life in Galveston during Prohibition.”
Author Links: Website: http://www.flapperfinds.com/ GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6452242.Ellen_Mansoor_Collier Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/artdecodame/flappers/ Purchase Links: Amazon Click on the book covers to order from Amazon. B&N a Rafflecopter giveaway Tour Participants March 21 – Community Bookstop – REVIEW March 21 – Writing Belle - SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT March 22 – Mythical Books – EXCERPT March 22 – Queen of All She Reads - SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT March 23 – A Blue Million Books - INTERVIEW March 24 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, &, Sissy, Too! - SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT March 25 – Island Confidential - INTERVIEW, EXCERPT March 26 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book - GUEST POST March 27 – Texas Book-aholic - REVIEW March 28 – Cassidy Salem Reads & Writes - GUEST POST March 28 – I Read What You Write - REVIEW March 29 – Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews - GUEST POST March 30 – View from the Birdhouse - SPOTLIGHT March 30 – Readsalot – INTERVIEW Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here Find Details and Sign Up Today!

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Playing the Part by Jen Turano +Giveaway

Playing the Part by Jen Turano is a 352 page book in the Christian historical fiction genre.  It is published by Bethany House Publishers and was released on March 1, 2016.  To purchase your own copy, click here,

About the Book

final ptp cover.jpgLucetta Plum is an actress on the rise in New York City, but is forced to abandon her starring role when a fan’s interest turns threatening. Lucinda’s widowed friend, Abigail Hart, is delighted at the opportunity to meddle in Lucetta’s life and promptly whisks her away to her grandson’s estate to hide out. Bram Haverstein may appear to simply be a somewhat eccentric gentleman of means, but a mysterious career and a secret fascination with a certain actress mean there’s much more to him than society knows. Lucetta, who has no interest in Abigail’s matchmaking machinations, has the best intentions of remaining cordial but coolly distant to Bram. But when she can’t ignore the strange and mysterious things going on in his house, it’ll take more than good intentions to keep her from trying to discover who Bram is behind the part he plays.


About the Author

jen turanoJen Turano is the best-selling, critically acclaimed author ofThe Ladies of Distinction series, and A Class of Their Own series, published through Bethany House Publishers.  Her novel, After a Fashion, was chosen as a top pick from Romantic Times, as well as being named a top ten romance of 2015 from Booklist.  It is also a nominee for Romantic Times 2015 Reviewers’ Choice Award.  Her book, A Most Peculiar Circumstance, was chosen as a top ten romance by Booklistin 2013.  Her seventh book, Playing the Part, will release in the spring of 2016, followed by a new four-book series, The Wallflowers.  When she’s not writing, Jen spends her time outside of Denver with her husband and neurotic Cattle Dog, enjoying herself as an empty-nester since her son recently abandoned her for the college life.  She can be found on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor/ or visit her on the web at www.jenturano.com. She is represented by Susan Brower of the Natasha Kern Literary Agency. Her books may be found in most fine bookstores, or follow the Baker House Publishing link to find additional places to purchase her work.


Review.jpg

The author has written another laugh out loud story  that has meddlesome family members, household staff who seem to need an attitude adjustment , a castle that is more than what it seems, a dashing young man named Bram and of course our heroine the talented actress Lucetta.

Being a well known actress has its perks but being stalked by a crazed fan is not top on Lucetta's list. She needs to get away for awhile to shake this creepy person out of her life. Her friend Abigail has the perfect solution for Lucetta's dilemma . Abigail decides that they  will go visit her grandson and hopefully find some peace and quiet there.  I started laughing the minute I knew they would be visiting Abigail's grandson. Did Abigail forget to mention that she didn't really tell Bram they were coming ? There is the little part about Abigail and her daughter not getting along that might be important to tell Lucetta. All these things together bring an adventure the reader will never forget.

The arrival at the castle is not your typical glamorous day for a highly respected actress. She will make a big splash on her host and the high jinks begin. I can't forget to mention the goat that plays chase with Lucetta. What an amazing book that has so much laughter, extremely well written characters and a story that has you glued to the book. The castle is huge with stairs that take forever to get to Lucetta's room. The household staff is not so thrilled with their new guest and her room which they must use every muscle they have to get to her. The poor things must be exhausted after a day of looking after the special guest. I wonder if they really like Lucetta? Would they do something to scare her into leaving? Well something is not quite right in the castle as strange things keep happening. Will Lucetta and Bram become friends? Is their a matchmaker among the group trying to unite these two very different people? The book is sure to please everyone who enjoys a great laugh , non stop action and a story that will have you turning pages quickly to see what happens next .

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit and the author for an honest review.



Givaway

Jen is graciously giving away an entire set of this series! Click on the link to enter!https://promosimple.com/ps/937b

Playing the part prize pack.jpg

Blog Stops

Visit all the blogs on the tour!

March 16: cherylbbookblog
March 18: Bookworm Mama
March 21: A Greater Yes
March 21: Southern Chelle
March 22: Splashes of Joy
March 23: Bigreadersite
March 23: Texas Book-aholic
March 24: 100 pages per hour
March 25: simpleharvestreads
March 25: Karen Krayons
March 26: Buwurmzzz
March 27: The Power of Words

Monday, March 21, 2016


THE AMISH GIRL by SAMANTHA BAYARR

What would you do if you were an innocent 10 year old Amish girl and you witnessed a horrible crime? Would anyone believe you? Amelia finds out in this mystery that has all the elements of a great story that keeps you guessing. After 8 years, Amelia returns to her home where a chill runs down her spine as the ghosts from the past haunt her. Will anyone welcome her home? Can she overcome the pain and heartache she felt all those years ago.

The characters are well developed and I loved how Amelia was a determined young lady who would stop at nothing to find out the truth from that night which changed her life. The author does  an amazing job of bringing twists and turns into the story just as the reader gets comfortable.  I was very much pleased with the ending and I will say it will be a shock for readers. The question is, can  you really come home again?  Be sure to absorb every word as the story draws to a unbelievable ending. I can't wait to read the next book from this gifted author.

I was given a digital copy of this book from the author for an honest review.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

MOLLY NOBLE BULL PRESENTS
WHEN THE COWBOY RIDES AWAY
                                             



Award Winning Western for 99 Cents, Starting March 16th 

My name is Molly Noble Bull, and When the Cowboy Rides Away, my Christian western historical with a touch of romance, won the 2016 Texas Association of Authors contest in the Christian Western category




The e-book version of my western will be on sale for 99 cents from March 16th to March 23, 2016.

Maggie Gallaghher, twenty-one, runs the Gallagher Ranch in 1880 South Texas and has raised her little sister and orphaned nephew since her parents and older sister died. No wonder she doesn’t have time for romance. 
When the Cowboy Rides Away by Molly Noble Bull opens two years after Maggie loses her family members. Out for a ride with her sister, she discovers Alex Lancaster, a handsome cowboy, shot and seriously wounded on her land. Kindhearted and a Christian, Maggie nurses him back to health despite all her other chores. How could she know that Alex had a secret that could break her heart? 

The novel is accompanied by two study guides for home school families based on When the Cowboy Rides Away and written by Jeanette Pierce, one study guides for teachers and one for students, and the study guides are on sale for 99 cents too. 


But if you decide to buy the paperback versions instead, nobody will try and stop you. 
Take a look. 
To see all Molly’s books, visit her website. www.mollynoblebull.com
You can read the first part of some of her books at her website. Just scroll down and click Molly’s Free Downloads.  



Molly Noble Bull was born in the ranch country of South Texas where she and her family live today and where the setting of When the Cowboy RidesAway takes place. Her father and her grandfather were real Texas cowboys; so it is not surprising that she likes to write westerns. 
Molly has published books with Zondervan, Love Inspired, Tsaba House, Westbow Press, Creation House and Elk Lake Press. Though Tsaba House is no longer in business, they published Sanctuary, and Sanctuary won the 2008 Gayle Wilson Award in the inspirational category and also tied for first place in another national contest for published authors that year. Gatehaven, Molly’s Christian Gothic historical, won the 2013 Creation House Fiction Writing Contest as a manuscript, and was published in 2014. The SecretPlace is a reprint of Sanctuary under a new title and a new cover, and her next western will be titled The Rogue’s Daughter.    

   







NEW BEGINNINGS + KINDLE FIRE GIVEAWAY


New Beginnings by Pamela Jo is a 95 page novel in the Christian Amish genre.  It is published by BHG Publishing and was released on December 22, 2015. To purchase your copy from Amazon, click here.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Final.jpgUpon her return from her best friend Charlie’s wedding, Victoria found that the beautiful city of Chicago had never seemed emptier and neither had her soul. She realized she was surrounded by all the people in the world and she still felt lonely. Deciding to take her friend Charlie’s advice and make a change in her life, she packed her bags and moved to the west coast of Florida. Little did she know that the young Amish girl that she met on the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico would begin a spiral of emotional changes for both of them
Review.jpg

The book is  a refreshing story about changes , forgiveness , strength and unconditional love.The characters Interact nicely with each other  and as you read the story you feel the depth of their emotions. I love stories that keep me guessing, have great lessons and make me laugh. This book has all that and so much more.

It is never easy when you decide to make a big change in your life. For Victoria she wants to start fresh, begin again, perhaps make a better life for herself. Funny how her journey to stay with her best friend and new husband will bring a new beginning to them as well. Will Victoria be happy for them?

When things change and her place to stay needs to be rearranged Victoria finds herself at a home with a wonderful women who has several other women boarding  there as well. There will be a very special person who will enter Victoria's life that will impact her in many ways. Who is this person? What secret does she have? Will Victoria find a way  to forgive herself from something that she has kept hidden for years?

The book flows at a slow pace at times, but I enjoyed the development of the characters and look forward to the next book in the series. The story gives readers a glimpse into several lives and shows how unforgiveness , illness and changes can affect lives. It is definitely an emotional read that will soften hearts that had become hurt and lead one character to find their way back to Christ. Change is never easy, but sometimes along the way you meet someone who will impact your life and leave you with hope , friendship and A NEW BEGINNING.

I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit for an honest review.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

PamPromo2.jpgAuthor Pamela Jo, best known as “Whoopie Pie Pam”, is the author of several wonderful story/cookbooks, and the best-selling co-author of the #1 Best Selling series, The Divine Secrets of the Whoopie Pie Sisters.  She is also the founder and creator of the Whoopie Pie Book Club, a well know social media site.
While battling Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma, Pam created the Whoopie Pie Book Club.  For years, she called a group of ladies in her family by that same name.  Every year, they travelled to Amish Country for a retreat of reading Amish fiction, seeing the Amish sights and eating plenty of Whoopie Pies.
Inspired by the Amish for their simplicity in facing life, love of God, and honor for family, Pamela found a connection with the Amish.  As a result of her many years of traveling and conducting business with the Amish, she has established close friendships with many Amish families, friendships that she cherishes.  She refers to them as her extended family.
Contact the author at:
Email:   pamelajo@BHGPublishing.com

GIVEAWAY

To celebrate the release of her newest book, Pamela Jo is giving away a special beach bag, including a Kindle fire tailored for your special day of relaxing at the beach.
Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/92ba
Kindle grand prize meme.jpg

BLOG TOUR STOPS

March 6: Bukwurmzzz
March 6: Splashes of Joy
March 7: Mary Hake
March 8: Quiet  Quilter
March 10: ArtisticNobody
March 13: A Greater Yes
March 15: Texas Book-aholic