Saturday, April 10, 2021

 

About the Book

Book:  Bitter Betrayal

Author: Rebecca Hemlock

Genre: Adventure Suspense

Release date: November 2020

Escape. Murder. Secrets.

Scientist Luke Wilkins has always been one step ahead of Lee, his longtime rival. Luke and his best friend Josh start off on an expedition to Nunavut’s territory for an environmental study. All seems well until their plane crashes in the middle of nowhere. As Luke regains consciousness, he discovers that he’s being held prisoner by Lee and his men.

Luke has something that Lee wants. A ring that has been shrouded in mystery for centuries and Lee will do whatever it takes to get it. Luke fears that he will never see his family or friends again unless he hands it over.

Lee will stop at nothing until the ring is his, but would he go as far as murder?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Rebecca Hemlock has written stories her entire life. She always knew she wanted to be a writer. That dream became a reality for her in 2016 when she landed her first job writing for her local newspaper. That same year, she was able to publish a children’s book under the pen name R.C. Burch.  With a little help from some wonderful people, Rebecca  was able to move forward in her writing career.

Rebecca published two more children’s books the following year, but children’s fiction was only the beginning. She self-published a novella in 2019, titled Bitter Betrayal, Arctic mysteries,  and completed her first novel in 2020. When she is not writing, Rebecca enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with family.

Aside from being a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, she is also a member of Sister in Crime. Rebecca has a degree in English and a certificate in Creative Writing and is also pursuing a degree in Creative Writing.

 

More from Rebecca

This book was so much fun to write. There are so many places in this world that have been barely touched by man. I took an interest in Northern Canadian culture after watching a documentary about how the Vikings first settled there.

After reading through the different artifacts that have been found there, Bitter Betrayal was born. I knew this would make a tremendous mystery-suspense story. Whenever I start a Mystery Suspense book, I usually like to add a dash of romance with a historical twist.

Luke Wilkins is someone that most single dads can relate to. He has a difficult time trusting other people. Especially when it comes to his son, Adam. He must trust those around him if he’s going to stay alive.

Bitter Betrayal teeters on the concept of how far someone would go for what they want. If you love Clive Cussler as much as I do, then this Novella is for you.

MY REVIEW 

The book is a fast read and has a  story filled with adventure. I loved the setting and the treasure that the team was looking for. Ancient artifacts that someone is willing to kill for is at the center of this action thriller. 

The author takes on a trip into Viking history as Luke and his team try to unravel the mystery of a ring and hidden messages on caves hidden deep within mountains. I was intrigued by where the story would take us. It did fall a little short in the description of characters and I couldn’t quite figure out some of the plot. The author leaves us hanging so I will  have to wait for the next book to see what happens. 

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 3

Pause for Tales, April 3

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, April 4

Through the Fire Blogs, April 5

A Modern Day Fairy Tale , April 6

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 7

Mary Hake, April 7

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 9

Texas Book-aholic, April 10

Inklings and notions, April 11

Blogging With Carol, April 11

Older & Smarter?, April 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 13

For Him and My Family, April 14

CarpeDiem, April 14

deb’s Book Review, April 15

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rebecca is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

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/10a1e/bitter-betrayal-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wednesday, April 7, 2021

 

operation grendel

About the Book

Book:  Operation Grendel

Author: Daniel Shwabauer

Genre: Christian Fiction, Futuristic Action & Adventure

Schwabauer - Operation GrendelIt’s the war story he’s dreamed of. But the battle may cost him his mind.

Military journalist Raymin Dahl thinks he’s finally getting the story of a lifetime. Secret peace talks on a remote tropical moon are about to surrender five colonized worlds—and six hundred million civilians—to a ruthless enemy.

 

But when his commanding officer, Captain Ansell Sterling, is fatally wounded before the negotiations can begin, Dahl can no longer just report on the mission. He’s ordered to complete it. With help from the AI embedded in Sterling’s comms bracelet, Dahl must impersonate his commander—a Marine Corps hero and psychological operations expert.

 

However, Sterling’s AI may be luring him to surrender more than he realizes. And the mission Corporal Dahl thinks he’s running isn’t the only operation underway.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Daniel_Schwabauer_MediumDaniel Schwabauer, M.A., is a lifelong reader of speculative fiction. He studied the genre under science fiction great James Gunn before graduating with honors from Kansas University’s Masters program in Creative Writing in 1995. Winner of the Eric Hoffer and Ben Franklin awards for his middle grade fantasy series, The Legends of Tira-Nor, Daniel enjoys riding his motorcycle on country roads and pondering other worlds. He lives in Kansas City with his wife and dog.

 

More from Daniel

The Operation Grendel Origin Story
I’ve always been fascinated by the power of storytelling, especially as a lever for moving culture.  For several years I studied the development of modern propaganda, the rise and fall of yellow journalism, and the relationship of these to psychological warfare. This culminated in 2017 with a brief investigation into quantum computing and the rising popularity of trans-humanism. Sometimes the best story ideas are combinations of things that have rattled around in the back of your mind for years.
Operation Grendel is a keyhole glimpse of a future in which every person in the galaxy is bonded to an artificial intelligence. Some AIs are embedded in the brain, and some are snapped onto the wrist as a wearable device. I didn’t realize when I started writing the book that Elon Musk had already launched Neuralink to create this technology in real life. I discovered the corporation after finishing my fourth draft.
The use of this technology probably means a lack of autonomy. How can you think for yourself, or even know what you think, if your thoughts are constantly being shaped and influenced by a quantum computer wirelessly connected to your brain?
Then again, is that all we really are as humans—biological computers? I don’t think so. But if not, then there will surely be resistance to the trans-humanist movement. Which means, in a work of fiction, clearly opposing sides. One empire supports this integration of man and machine; the other places limits on AI technology.
But “warring empires” was not a story I felt capable of telling. I wanted something closer to home, something smaller and more accessible, something more human. I wanted to show what a life spent entirely under the influence of an inner nanny—a substitute Holy Spirit—might look like.
Well, who better to tell that story than a man who has, in his own way, been manipulating others through storytelling? In other words, a journalist.
This fit my desire to write the story as military science fiction. Since I never had the honor of serving in the armed forces, I needed a way to give my narrator a believable voice. Corporal Raymin Dahl, a military reporter who barely scraped his way through reservist boot camp, fit the bill.
Before long the story seemed to take on a life of its own.

MY REVIEW 

What an intriguing story the author delivers using his imagination to take readers to another world. Within the first  few sentences readers find that it will be hard to trust anyone in the story. A journalist who lies for a living gave me pause for a minute. I wonder how many stories we have  read or seen on television are fabricated for someone’s benefit? Oh that blows my mind thinking about it. That little sentence carried me through the entire story. 

Dahl has been summoned to write a story of what is really happening in the war. The truth must be told and his mission is to get  it out no matter the cost. I loved the action and the characters so much I almost believed them to be real. It was watching a science fiction movie only I was part of the story, Yes I attached myself to the star of the book and joined him on his mission. I felt every pain he endured and the agony of losing those who fought for freedom and truth. 

 The author does throw a major curve ball in the story that shocked me. There was the brilliance of his writing. He lulls his readers into a sense of security and bam nothing is what we thought. I do have to say that I’m not sure why this is a Christian book. I found no reference to faith or Jesus at all. Maybe the author has subtlety put in things I didn’t catch. For me it missed its mark as a Christian book but is good as a science fiction one for older teens. 

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



Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon card, a signed copy of the hardcover first edition, and 2 laptop stickers!! (photo attached)

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/109d7/operation-grendel-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

 The Indebted Earl by Erica Vetsch ~ Read with Audra Book Tour, Review, and Giveaway


Can Captain Wyvern keep his new marriage of convenience all business--or will it turn into something more?


Captain Charles Wyvern owes a great debt to the man who saved his life--especially since Major Richardson lost his own life in the process. The best way to honor that hero's dying wish is for Wyvern to escort the man's grieving fiance and mother safely to a new cottage home by the sea. But along the way, he learns of another obligation that has fallen on his shoulders: his uncle has died and the captain is now the Earl of Rothwell.

When he and the ladies arrive at his new manor house in Devon, they discover an estate in need of a leader and a gaggle of girls, all wards of the former earl. War the new earl knows; young ladies and properties he does not. Still wishing to provide for the bereaved Lady Sophia Haverly, Charles proposes a marriage of convenience.

Sophie is surprised to find she isn't opposed to the idea. It will help her care for her betrothed's elderly mother, and she's already fallen in love with the wayward girls on the Rothwell estate. This alliance is a chance to repay the captain who has done so much for her care, as well as divert her attention from her grief. When Wyvern returns to his sea commission, she'll stay behind to oversee his property and wards.

It sounds so simple. Until the stalwart captain is arrested on suspicion of smuggling, and Sophie realizes how much he's come to mean to her. Now she'll have to learn to fight, not only for his freedom but also for his love.



MY REVIEW 

 I have waited a while for the author to write a new book. She has surpassed my expectations with this wonderful story.  It is easy to fall in love with the characters because they are so well developed. Oh my did I enjoy reading about Charles. He is such a swoon worthy captain with integrity and a big heart. He takes his job seriously and is always looking out for his crew. A tragedy strikes which finds Charles having to deliver sad news to a woman who has been waiting for her fiancĂ©e to return. The moments Charles and Rich spent together as they lay in hospital cots was very emotional. Charles has made a promise to Rich that he now needs to honor. 

Sophie is a sweet woman and I loved that she was taking care of Rich’s mother with no hesitation. Their relationship is very special and I admire Sophie for stepping up and making sure that Rich’s mother  was well treated and met her needs. Her selflessness is very important as the story shows how she always puts others before herself. I did like how the story took an unexpected turn when a marriage of convenience is brought up. Sophie must have some misgivings as she is still mourning the passing of Rich. Her heart is hurt when she learns some unexpected details of Rich’s death. Will she be able to forgive? 

The story gives us a look at two people who come  together to fulfill a promise and the trials they face along the way. There are several surprises in the story that will take  readers on an emotional journey of forgiveness, joy, faith and trust. This is my favorite of the series. I think the author writes with great knowledge of this time period and helps readers visualize the land and people with a clear view. There are a few moments I cried as I so wanted things to work out. The book is everything I had hoped for and well worth the wait. 

I received a copy of this book from Read With Audra blogging program. The review is my own opinion. 







Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling and ACFW Carol Award–winning author. She is a transplanted Kansan now living in Minnesota with her husband, who she claims is both her total opposite and soul mate. 
 
Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum and cheering on her Kansas Jayhawks and New Zealand All Blacks.
 
A self-described history geek, she has been planning her first research trip to England.
 
Learn more about Erica Vetsch and her books at www.ericavetsch.com. She can also be found on Facebook (@EricaVetschAuthor)Instagram (@EricaVetsch) and Pinterest (Erica Vetsch).



 

About the Book

Book:  Your Home in Heaven

Author: Donna Wyland and Lynn Marie Davis

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Release date: October 2020

Children will delight in God’s promise of heaven as Jesus build their imaginary home

In this colorful book that reminds them of his great love. Your Home in Heaven…

  • Teaches about God’s promise of heaven.
  • Comforts through the truth of eternal life in heaven with Jesus.
  • Encourages godly living as children learn the fruit of the Spirit.
  • Draws children closer to God through eight Discussion Page questions.
  • Inspires children’s creativity as they imagine their own home in heaven.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Donna Wyland is an award-winning author, editor and coach whose personal essays and poetry have appeared in numerous publications. She is also an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation who specializes in coaching writers toward completion and publication of their own books.

As the author of two picture books, Your Home in Heaven (released October 2020) and If I Could Ask Jesus, and a gift book titled Surrender, Donna’s work encourages readers to draw near to God to experience His peace, love and hope.

Her first novel, Autumn’s Harmony, was also released in October 2020 and is a poignant and witty tale about the healing power of forgiveness, reconciliation, and new beginnings. It is the first in a series of three written for every woman who has ever desired to make sense of her past, find joy in the present, and discover God’s purpose for her future.

To learn more and to view coaching packages, visit www.freetobe.faith, or connect with Donna on LinkedIn, Instagram (@freetobe_writer_coach) and Pinterest.

 

More from Donna

Having lost three best friends at 16 and a younger brother at 18, God gave me a heart for heaven at an early age. He also filled me with a heart of joy. Your Home in Heaven reflects both.

MY REVIEW 

I really enjoyed reading this book geared towards children about The Fruit of the Spirit. It is written in a way that is easy to understand and helps children think about how they have these gifts and how they can use them. The author also talks about heaven and what it may be like for us. The way it is described is good and helps children realize it is a place that Jesus will be there to greet them. The author emphasizes that heaven is there waiting when it is their  time. I like that because it shows that they have things Jesus wants them to complete before they go home to Him. 

The illustrations are very colorful and fits well with the pages. I liked how it is vivid and will  get the children’s attention. I think this book would be suited starting at kindergarten age. I plan to get a copy for my granddaughter to have when is older. 

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

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 2

Bigreadersite, April 3

deb’s Book Review, April 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 4

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, April 5

Spoken from the Heart, April 5

Texas Book-aholic, April 6

Vicky Sluiter, April 7

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 7

Older & Smarter?, April 8

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 8

Inklings and notions, April 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 10

For Him and My Family, April 11

CarpeDiem, April 11

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 12

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 13

Lighthouse Academy, April 13 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 14

Splashes of Joy, April 15

Maureen’s Musings, April 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna is giving away the grand prize package of a hardcover copy of the book, stuffed puppy and cardboard house to color and fold, and a $25 Target gift card!!

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/10a1d/your-home-in-heaven-celebration-tour-giveaway