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Tuesday, July 21, 2020

The Seer Celebration Tour

About the Book

Book:  The Seer
Author: Erin R Howard
Genre: YA Fantasy
Release Date: February 27, 2018
FC-The-Seer---LargerViktor has one order to follow:
Kill the girl before her eyes are opened.
For thousands of years, his job has been to torment and kill seers: humans that have the gift of seeing the spiritual realm. So it was no surprise when his brother Matthias was once again sent to stop him and protect the girl.
Now the last of the seers’ bloodline hangs in the balance, as the estranged demon and angel brothers are forced to work together to save a girl’s life and escape to the sanctuary city of Bethesda.

Click here to get your copy!
 MY REVIEW 
What if you had the ability to see in the spiritual realm? Would you be able to fight off the attacks with confidence, or hide hoping  they will go away. This book takes us into a world that some pastors never speak about. The spiritual realm is something that some avoid discussing. It is not an easy subject, but the author has done a good job of letting us see past the natural into a place where good vs evil exist. Everyday there are battles being fought for us. We don’t see it, but it is there. 
The introduction of Thea was quite intriguing . She has a special gift that some will want to destroy while others are there to protect her. I kept thinking what it would be like to see an angel and a demon fighting against each other. The details the author gives as the encounter takes place is a little graphic so if this would bother you be warned. I found it to be  exactly as I thought it would be. The enemy doesn’t fight fair and his desire to destroy anyone who dares to challenge him are in for a battle.
I liked getting to know Matthias and how he was determined to get Thea to safety. His encouragement to help her allow her gift to be  used was well worth reading  about. Thea at first isn’t quite sure who to trust and I could sense her doubt.  I would be too if some creature came to me with this story that I was a Seer. Thea seems to take things in stride and her willingness to learn her gift reminds me of the faith we need to trust God.
I’m not sure why I liked Viktor  because he is a demon. Two brothers on different sides yet Viktor seemed to have a slight remorse for the way he decided to turn against God. The story is fast paced at times and I liked how the author in subtle ways shows us what it is like when demons and angels face off. Be warned that the story ends with a cliffhanger. The author has given readers a foundation with this book and I’m anxious to read what happens next. 
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.  

About the Author


Erin R. Howard is a Developmental Editor, YA Urban Fantasy Author of The Kalila Chronicles, and has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing/English from Southern New Hampshire University. When she’s not writing, Erin enjoys spending time with her family, fueling her craft addictions, and teaching writing workshops. Erin is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the KenTen Writers Group. She resides in Western Kentucky with her husband and three children.


More from Erin

If I’ve learned anything these past few months, it’s that I’m still not a fan of change. It’s always been hard for me to transition from what I know, to the unknown, and then find a new normal. Let’s be honest. Stepping out of our comfort zone isn’t supposed to be easy. It’s supposed to challenge and stretch our faith. And as a result of stepping out, we hope that we will learn and grow.
I love messy characters, because life is messy, and it doesn’t always work out the way we expect. It’s full of changes and situations. The characters in my series, The Kalila Chronicles, are no different. Each character has unique challenges. For some, they didn’t ask for change, and for others, they are stepping out on their own.
Here’s a little bit more about The Seer. The first book in The Kalila Chronicles:
For thousands of years, Viktor has carried out his orders from Lucifer faithfully. But after a recent demotion in rank, he has grown weary of the bloodshed. His latest order is to kill Thea, a seventeen-year-old Seer before her gift manifests, and she can see into the spiritual realm. However, his estranged angel brother, Matthias, intervenes on his plans. Seeing this as his way out, Viktor proposes that in exchange for leaving Thea alive, Matthias must escort him to the sanctuary city of Bethesda. Although, getting through the portal isn’t as easy as Viktor thought, and now he has to work with Matthias to protect the very girl he was ordered to kill.

Blog Stops

For the Love of Literature, July 22 (Author Interview)
Rebecca Tews, July 22
Artistic Nobody, July 28 (Author Interview)
Wishful Endings, July 30 (Author Interview)
Emily Yager, August 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Erin is giving away the grand prize package of a copy of The Seer, a Behind the Story Booklet of The Seer, and a $25 Amazon card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
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Thursday, July 16, 2020

THESE NAMELESS THINGS by SHAWN SMUCKER

 From the beginning I could tell this was going to be a challenging read. It’s not because I didn’t like the book, rather that I couldn’t  read it fast enough. The suspense starts right away and never lets up. 

 Several people leave the mountain and discover what held them there , why they left and what affects it left on their lives. Just looking at the cover tells me there are secrets that once revealed will change many lives.  I love the details the author gives as the story slowly progresses. The characters seem to come alive and I was mesmerized by them. 

 What happened in those mountains seep out into a unforgettable tale of abuse, pain, secrets and an ending that delivers a punch to the mind.  The authors reaches deep into the soul as the characters experience forgiveness, truth and a journey to discover their destination. 

 I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads Blogger Program. The review is my own opinion. 
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About the Book

Title: A Very Austen Romance
Authors: Robin Helm, Laura Hile, Wendi Sotis, Barbara Cornthwaite, Chautona Havig, Mandy H. Cook
Genre: Historical Romance
Release Date: June, 2020
A Very Austen Romance - Ebook finalA Very Austen Romance features a delightful medley of novellas, each set in Jane Austen’s Regency world. Your friends from Pride and Prejudice, Emma, and Sense and Sensibility, enjoy new adventures in this lovely collection of stories by Robin Helm, Laura Hile, Wendi Sotis, Barbara Cornthwaite, Mandy Cook, and Chautona Havig.
Be treated to prequels, spin-offs, and sequels of Austen’s novels, along with original and supporting characters in starring roles. If historical romance is your preference, you’ll love these well-crafted stories written by beloved authors in the genre.

Click here to get your copy!
 MY REVIEW
Gather round as you enjoy these wonderful stories that are filled with romance, intriguing characters and  a time period where  Lords and Lady’s abound. Find a comfy place and be swept away to an era that whispers royalty and memories fit for a lady. 
The King of Hearts by Robin Helm
The story is centered around Kitty Bennett at the age of twenty. Every time I read books about this era I always snicker because it was such a disgrace to not be married by a certain age. My goodness everyone is a buzz about the upcoming dance where Kitty will be the center of attention. The dance was fun to read about and how distinguished the gentlemen were. I loved when Kitty said she would marry for love and not money. Bravo to her for following her heart. She has quite a selection of gentlemen vying for her attention. Who will she choose?  I enjoyed how the author gave Kitty several gentlemen to get acquainted with. I think a few tried too hard but in the end does love win over power and money? 
You’ve Got To Kiss The Girl by Laura Hike
Right away I was hooked on this story. A plot to kidnap Darcy and Anne seemed simple. They would be taken to a place where hopefully a wedding proposal would take place. Lady Catherine was determined that her scheme would work. The house had to be comfortable, well stocked and perhaps a bit romantic. 
I think Lady Catherine steals the show in this story. What is she thinking making people waddle on the carpet so it would last longer. Oh my she is becoming quite unquestionably  a bit out there . I laughed at all her shenanigans and how her plan, well I mustn’t say more. The story is fun to read and I thought the author did a great job of showing how determined someone is to pick a spouse for someone else. I loved how the story had some funny moments and how a mixup delivers an unexpected romance. 
A Step Too Far by Wendi Sotis
This story finds us witnessing the rescue of Elizabeth after she falls from a cliff. Of course if she hadn’t been so curious about her neighbors, perhaps she wouldn’t find herself in this predicament. Darcy stumbles upon her and must now find the easiest  way to get her to safety.  
Elizabeth is known for her little adventures and this one is no exception. It was nice to read how thoughtful Darcy was as he returned  her to her home. The author gives a glimpse into how Darcy and Elizabeth interact with each other as she recovers from her injuries. Do I smell romance in the air? I thought the author painted a lovely picture of two people getting to know each other as they follow their hearts. 
John Knightly Wins A Wife  by Barbara Cornthwaite

 This adventure was very fun to read as John has his hands full trying to keep Miss Maria’s brother out of trouble. I wonder if he agreed to this endeavor a bit too hasty? Perhaps he is hoping to impress Maria and get her attention. Oh how attraction to someone can make us do silly things. 

 John is starting to see that Arthur is becoming hard to deal with. As I read the story I kept thinking of Arthur as a scoundrel . He is someone who sets their sights on something or someone for  their personal gain. It ruffles John’s feathers when Arthur’s  attention is drawn  to a certain young lady who is rumored to have money or will soon come into money. The prank Arthur pulls on John is in such poor taste. I think there is going to be a little anger brewing within John. Someone needs to set Arthur straight in how to behave himself as a gentleman. 

 I enjoyed getting to go along with John as he pursues a young woman who will compliment his life perfectly. The author does  a great job of letting readers get  a glimpse into John’s heart as he intends to make a special someone his wife. 
Charming Miss Dashwood by Chautona Havig

 I couldn’t wait to see where the author would take her story. It is no secret that I love her writing and her adventurous spirit. Margaret is everything I had hoped for. She is funny in a sarcastic way and her uncanny one liners are perfectly written. I think I see a little of me in her with the sarcasm and little time for nonsense. 

I loved how the author was able to put Conrad and Margaret in a position where they began to slowly get to know each other. Conrad had many adventure which I think Margaret enjoyed hearing. I have always wondered what it would be like living during this time period. A woman’s reputation was of the upmost importance and they were usually accompanied by someone who would protect the woman’s honor. It intrigued me that Margaret wanted to help stand guard with Conrad when intruders sneak in the house. 

 I couldn’t wait to find out why  these men were there to invade the home and what danger was ahead. The author had me trying to read faster because I had to know if Conrad and Margaret would finally start to be cordial to each other. It reminds me of that saying, “ I think thou does  protest too much.”  
The part where the intruders come once again is definitely a look at how brave Margaret is. Her instinct to protect her family and Conrad is admirable and dare I say impressive.  The author does a good job of writing a story that not only gives us a glimpse into espionage but a cleverly written storyline that includes a bit of romance. I liked that the romance didn’t overshadow the entire story, but complimented the characters as they developed feelings for one another. I liked that Conrad was a humble man who felt like he didn’t have much to offer a wife. The ending is full of surprises and left this  reader wanting to stay awhile longer with Conrad and Margaret. 
In The Looking Glass by Mandy H. Cook

 Fanny is not happy on this special day of hers. Her birthday reminds her of how old she is getting and feeling like a spinster. She decides to wander away from home and thus starts an adventure she will never forget. The story moves at  a fast pace much like Fanny herself does. 

 The stranger she meets is very intriguing and I couldn’t wait to see how Fanny’s family welcomes him. It takes awhile to find out the strangers name but it is worth the wait. A timepiece given to Fanny as a child holds the key to unlocking a promise made by the stranger . I did enjoy getting to know more about the stranger  and his past. The story is good and I liked the ending especially. It is a sweet story that young girls dream about. Love finds you in the most unexpected places. 

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

About the Authors

Robin HelmRobin Helm‘s books reflect her love of music, as well as her fascination with the paranormal and science fiction.
Previously published works include The Guardian Trilogy: Guardian, SoulFire, and Legacy; the Yours by Design series: Accidentally Yours, Sincerely Yours, and Forever Yours; Understanding Elizabeth;  More to Love; and Lawfully Innocent. Ms. Helm also contributed stories to A Very Austen Christmas and A Very Austen Valentine.
She plans to publish Maestro in 2020.
Her life in (usually) sunny, small town South Carolina is busy, but affords time for writing, reading, teaching piano, and playing games on her phone. (Would you believe she’s an elder in a war game?)


Laura HReaders are loving Laura Hile‘s joyous Regency novels. Her signature style—with intertwined plots, cliffhangers, laugh-out-loud humor, and romance—keeps them coming back for more.
The comedy Laura comes by as a teacher. There’s never a dull moment with teen students!
Laura lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and a collection of antique clocks.
Her fiction is for everyone, even teens.

Wendi SotisWendi Sotis lives on Long Island, NY, with her husband and triplets. While searching for Pride and Prejudice from Darcy’s point of view, she became thoroughly enamored with Jane Austen Fan Fiction or JAFF. In early 2010, she dreamed of an idea for a story and hasn’t stopped writing since: Promises, Dreams and Expectations; All Hallows Eve; The Keys for Love; Safekeeping (with just a dash of Austen); The Gypsy Blessing; Foundation of Love (The Gypsy Blessing 2); and A Lesson Hard Learned.
The Marriage Pact, and some of Wendi’s works-in-progress, have branched away from JAFF to Regency Romance (the Loving an Aldridge Series) and Contemporary Romantic Mysteries (the Implicated series). Wendi will also continue bringing Darcy and Elizabeth together again and again in an unusual manner.

Barbara CornthwaiteBarbara Cornthwaite lives in the middle of Ireland with her husband and children. She taught college English before “retiring” to do something she loves far more; her days are now filled with homeschooling her six children, trying to keep the house tidy (a losing battle), and trying to stay warm in the damp Irish climate (also a losing battle). She is surrounded by medieval castles, picturesque flocks of sheep, and ancient stone monuments. These things are unappreciated by her children, who are more impressed by traffic jams, skyscrapers, and hot weather.


Mandy Helms CookMandy Cook was an RN for over ten years, half of which she served in the Navy, living in far-flung places, enjoying experiencing the world while following her calling. Just before she and her handsome Marine were both deployed to different places, they married. They now have three children, ages five and younger.
She previously published The Gifted, using her nursing experience to lend accuracy to her story about an ER nurse who is handed a gift that changes her life forever. Adversity, and a long history of secrets, constantly battle against her natural instinct for truth and justice, but will the truth be worth the dare?
Mandy also contributed a story to A Very Austen Valentine: Austen Anthologies, Book 1.


Chauton HavigChautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her on the web and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.


Blog Stops

Holly Jo Morris, July 10
Rebecca Tews, July 14
Pause for Tales, July 20

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, the A Very Austen authors are 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.

Which “Romantic Hero” will steal your heart?

Heroes, new and familiar, abound in A Very Austen Romance (an Austen-inspired anthology). Enjoy this fun quiz and learn which of the heroes in the book is the best literary match for you!
Help Me Find My Match!

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Sunday, July 12, 2020

About the Book

Book:  The Ring Does Not Fit
Author: Sunshine Rodgers
Genre: Romance, Fiction, Christian, Fantasy
Release Date: November 19, 2019
Alena is stuck in a mundane marriage and longing for somethingfront cover
different. New clothes. Bigger bling. Flashy cars. Miraculously and
inexplicably, it all happens in a flash and she is finally married to
the man of her dreams, but something still seems to be missing. In all
her excitement, the one thing she’s looking for is the one thing she
can’t seem to keep.

Click here to get your copy!
 MY REVIEW 
This story reminded me of “It’s a Wonderful Life,” with a twist. I was able to relate to Alena more than I wanted to. She was so critical of her husband, marriage and life in general. Poor thing  thought the grass was greener on the other side. A very special guest in the story takes Alena on a journey through several “marriages,” that she thought would be better. Many of us are guilty of complaining about our spouse . Sometimes our eyes wander and think what  it would be like to be with someone else. 
 The author does a great job of showing Alena what her life may be like and as the journey continues she starts to realize how much she misses her husband. There were a few points in the story that I thought were key points. One of them was Alena didn’t know what love really was because she didn’t know what loving Jesus meant. She had no relationship with Him and really didn’t believe in Him. The second point which I found to be powerful was that Jesus has given us the spouse we were meant to be with. When we learn  to accept each other and love unconditionally, then we will have a marriage filled with joy and contentment. 
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

About the Author

Sunshine Rodgers is an International Best-Selling author, speaker and
motivator who excels in sharing the hope and light of the gospel in
her books. Her characters experience the love and grace of Jesus
Christ and the beauty of Heaven. Sunshine hopes her pages will get you
passionate about your faith. Her books have been made into audio books
and translated in different languages. Her social media sites and
personal blog reach thousands of readers a week. Sunshine has appeared
in magazines, newspapers and live media interviews and is working on
her merchandise line (available on her website!). Sunshine now enjoys
her days traveling for signings, author events, speaking engagements
and book tours.


More from Sunshine

“Why are we never satisfied?  I mean, we can have
houses, cars and money and still want more! If I were to break it
down, I would have to say…insecurity.  Maybe we feel like we’re not good
enough. I don’t know about you, but I compare myself with others
all the time just by looking at social media and feeling like I don’t
measure up.
My book “The Ring Does Not Fit” concentrates on appreciating what is right in front of you,
celebrating those who are still with you and staying humble.
Because the grass is not always greener on the other side and there
is always more going on behind the scenes that we don’t know about.
I wanted to explore the issue of contentment  in my book.
The only way to really get over any personal frustration
and constant comparison  is to have
an attitude of thanksgiving and praise where you are thankful
for what you have, no matter how little or big it is.
That’s the first step to loving life.”
– Sunshine Rodgers

Blog Stops

Quiet quilter, July 8
Through the Fire Blogs, July 10 (Author Interview)
Blossoms and Blessings, July 13 (Author Interview)
For the Love of Literature, July 17 (Author Interview)
Andrea Carmen, July 17
Quiet Workings, July 18
Artistic Nobody, July 21 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sunshine is giving away the grand prize of a $40 Visa card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
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Saturday, July 11, 2020

About the Book

Book:  6 Hidden Behaviors that Destroy Families
Author: Dr. Magdalena Battles
Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Family & Relationships
Release Date: June 9, 2020
Families are complicated.
There is no such thing as a perfect family…or an easy family. We all make mistakes that hurt or disappoint our family members, and we’ve all been hurt or disappointed by those we love.
Within our human makeup is a deep and basic need for healthy family relationships. Family was designed to provide us with love, a feeling of belonging, a shared history, traditions, comfort, affection, quality time, feedback, learning, and a safety net. When our family fails to provide for these needs, we feel a deep sense of loss.
6 Hidden Behaviors That Destroy Families by Dr. Magdalena Battles addresses the top conflicts in extended families that cause relationships to become strained, disjointed, or broken. These hidden behaviors are: criticism, gossip, lack of inclusion, deception, refusing to accept differences, and a failure to apologize and forgive. Dr. Battles provides practical tips and solutions based on research, biblical principles, and her own observations of what has worked in families.
Most families have some dysfunction, causing pain, damage, and division. While every family has problems, what really matters is how we deal with those issues. Are we working in a way that heals and resolves problems, or are we allowing them to fester, divide, and explode, causing tremendous damage to our relationships? Families are always in a state of change, and they are a work in progress. But they can function in a way where love, support, belonging, and kindness are exemplified and practiced.
Doing nothing about our family conflicts often contributes to the problems. The healing in your family can begin with you. To have a family that is loving and supportive, you need to be part of the solutions and healing. You just have to take those first steps! It is a process, but the result will be happier lives and more fulfilling relationships. 

Click here to get your copy!
 MY REVIEW 
Coming from a very dysfunctional family growing  up, I could relate to this book  in many ways. The author presents a book that gives readers an insight into how we can improve communication with our family. There are some  very emotional stories the author shares that allow us to understand how the family can easily be torn apart. Forgiveness is a definite key in moving forward and letting go of bitterness. For years I have held onto bitterness because of the childhood I endured. When I finally was able to forgive I felt for  the first time that I was free and at peace.
I liked the chapter on criticism because it is one thing I heard all my life. I was never good enough, not smart enough and would never amount to anything. Words hurt so much more because they last a lifetime. “Insults are used like swords in battle. They pierce the soul and damage a person to their core.” There is constructive criticism that can be helpful when said in love. The author gives great examples throughout the  book that is encouraging and helps readers to understand how important a strong family is.
As the title implies the author shares key behaviors that if not addressed can destroy a family. I can’t count the times I felt left out when going anywhere with my family. I was shunned and verbally abused by brothers and parents. I think this book would be a great resource for every parent. It would benefit families  and give them directions of how to overcome obstacles that cause division. The author includes questions at the end of each chapter that I found very resourceful. I really enjoyed the checklist the author provides of ways to include all family members. When we work together we are stronger . 
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. 

About the Author

Dr. Magdalena Battles is a writer and conference speaker whose specialties include parenting, child development, family relationships, domestic violence, and sexual assault. She shares her real-life experiences and professional insights on her website, LivingJoyDaily.com, and on Lifehack.org, where she was named one of their top writers. She is also the author of Let Them Play: The Importance of Play and 100 Child Development Activities (September 2019). Dr. Battles earned a bachelor’s degree in child psychology and a master’s degree in professional counseling, both from Liberty University, and a doctorate in Clinical and Academic Psychology from Walden University. She has also completed post-graduate studies on “Technologies in Education” at Harvard University. While she may seem all business, in her spare time, she enjoys camping with her family, visiting national parks, reading nonfiction, decorating, organizing, shopping, spending time with extended family, and incubating/raising Silkie chickens. She is also an active volunteer in her community and church. Dr. Battles and her husband, Justin, reside in Texas, where they are raising their daughter, Brielle, twin boys, Alex and Charlie, a dog named Max, and a Silkie chicken named Marshmallow.

More from Magdalena

While every family has its problems—some minor, some major—what really matters is how we deal with these issues. Are we working to heal and resolve the conflicts, or are we allowing them to fester, divide, and explode, perhaps causing irreparable damage to our relationships? The six hidden behaviors that destroy families are described as “hidden” because we often ignore, deny, or cover up our family issues. The family unit is a living organism, never remaining the same. Sometimes, it is healthy and working well, and other times, it is not as healthy or functional. All it takes is one person to start a trend of love, compassion, and support that can change generations to come.

Blog Stops

Artistic Nobody, July 13 (Spotlight)
A Baker’s Perspective, July 16 (Spotlight)
Simple Harvest Reads, July 19 (Spotlight)
Mary Hake, July 21
Through the Fire Blogs, July 22 (Spotlight)
Splashes of Joy, July 23
For the Love of Literature, July 24 (Spotlight)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Magdalena is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Starbucks gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
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