About the Book

Book: The Crown and the Axe

Author: Darcy Fornier

Genre: YA Christian Medieval Adventure

Release Date: September 12, 2019

A careless mistake. A tale from the past. A journey he’ll never forget.

Seventeen-year-old Dierk Lichtensitz, Crown Prince of Sunland, excels in both his physical and educational training. Not that his father is impressed, but Dierk quit trying to please him years ago.

King Phillip Lichtensitz holds high standards for his children—with good reason. So when selfish neglect on Dierk’s part leaves another squire injured, Phillip delivers strict punishment. Dierk must travel the country as a woodcutter’s son.

Resentful of his father’s decision, Dierk resolves to endure his punishment unmoved—until the tales of a long-dead witch’s power force him to reckon with himself and his God.

As the journey leads him into more danger than his father could have ever foreseen, how much will Dierk have to surrender to become the man he needs—and desperately wants—to be?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Darcy Fornier (pronounced forn-yay) believes the best stories provide clean, compelling entertainment while also provoking the reader to think about life in a new way. She’s been spinning stories ever since she learned how to play “pretend,” and she has seriously pursued writing since 2013. When she isn’t writing, editing, or dreaming up a story, you might find her washing dishes, “dissolved” in a book, playing the piano, hiking in the woods, singing at the top of her lungs, or talking up a storm with her sisters. At six years old, she gave her heart to Jesus, and she lives to know Him more. She makes her home with her parents and two younger sisters, wherever that happens to be.

 

More from Darcy

The first spark of inspiration for this story was Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Don’t judge yet, okay? 😉

 

I hadn’t yet seen the film, actually, just read a storybook at least three years before I even thought about taking pencil to paper myself.

 

The princess and the sleeping spell fascinated me far less that the prince’s capture by, and subsequent battle with Maleficent. Maybe that’s why the prince is the only character who has the same name in my story.

 

I got to thinking, “What would the story be like without magic?” So there went the sleeping spell. 😉

 

And then I got to wondering, “What happened to the prince and princess after the story ended? Who would their children be? How would those children be affected by their parents’ dramatic past?”

 

That’s when Dierk Lichtensitz, Crown Prince of Sunland, introduced himself.

 

The story is mostly his. But because all of are shaped by those before us, it is also his father’s story. I had fun telling both.

 

The characters walk through several dark places. Life offers us many painful challenges, after all. But they also get to laugh because life offers us moments of joy.

 

And it is a story of victory. Because in Jesus, there is nothing over which we can’t triumph.

 

P.S. If you have any clean or inspirational Sleeping Beauty retellings to recommend, I’m all ears. Pay no attention to my To-Be-Read pile’s protests in the background. 😉

MY REVIEW 

The story is a journey of a young man who needs a lesson in humility. Being a Prince has made him arrogant and prideful. His father has a plan to humble his son and thus the adventure begins.  I found myself immersed in the story and forgot everything around me. 

Dierk is quite a character. He can be charming, even nice   at times, but when he is taken on a journey through different villages as a mere commoner, his lessons will be many.  The Sisters were perhaps one of my favorite times in the story. They each are gifted and follow the teachings of God. As Dierk finds out not everyone like them he is surprised at the reason why.  Think about the times in the Bible when Jesus was not liked and others wanted to harm Him. This story  really emphasized the importance of  Prayer warriors. When you find yourself in a battle, what better way to fight then with prayer warriors surrounding you? “He doesn’t prevent all hard-ship because then people might serve Him only for  what He would do for them.”  “ But He gives us grace sufficient to handle whatever comes.”

The story is filled with adventure, faith, and a lesson in giving your heart to Christ. I enjoyed reading how Dierk seemed to mature as his journey encounters many characters. As I read the story I kept thinking about a journey my husband went on several years ago. He and other men from the church decided they would travel to a place where a conference was going on. Along the way, they broke down, had people help them and allowed them to stay in their home. Just as my husband returned with a new love for God, Dierk takes a similar trip. This would be an excellent book to have in church libraries and available for the youth to read. 

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

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 15

Texas Book-aholic, December 16

Inklings and notions, December 17

For Him and My Family, December 18

Simple Harvest Reads, December 19 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

deb’s Book Review, December 19

Rebecca Tews, December 20

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 22

Artistic Nobody, December 23 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 24

Blogging With Carol, December 25

Ashley’s Bookshelf, December 26

Mary Hake, December 26

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 27

Sara Jane Jacobs, December 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Darcy is giving away the grand prize package of $15 Amazon gift card and a copy of one of Darcy’s favorite books, Sir Knight of the Splendid Way!!

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/104b0/the-crown-and-the-axe-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

About the Book

Book: Child of Destiny

Author: T.E Bradford

Genre: Christian YA Fantasy

Release Date: May 26, 2020

Across the Divide, a storm is brewing.

In a world where power determines position, word is spreading of the girl who possesses all three factors of magic. Some feel her existence heralds a new era. Others cling desperately to old traditions. The struggle will pit neighbor against neighbor in a conflict poised to spiral into civil war. At the heart of the maelstrom an adversary thirsty for domination wields a weapon of untold magnitude. When power can be harvested like wheat, no one’s magic is safe—even the Trine’s.

Is it her Destiny to save them, or will her power be used to destroy everything and everyone she loves?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Author of the Divide Series books, Six World Sagas, and international bestseller Written in the Stars, Tracy believes her writing is a little piece of magic God gave her.

“Life is hard enough. I want stories to transport me to another place. A magical place, where I can stretch out my hand to touch the wonder of this vast universe God created. A universe more extraordinary than we can begin to comprehend. These are the stories I love best, and the ones I love to write. Welcome to my worlds!” –T.E. Bradford

 

More from T.E. Bradford

Thanks so much for stopping by to hear a bit about Child of Destiny, book two in the Divide Series. I’m so excited to share it with all of you!

In this second book in the series, one of the characters enjoys a special treat. This yumminess goes by the name of Hazelnut Delight. It’s a simple, but fantastic recipe that only a very select few will receive. Shhh!!! It’s a family secret!

HAZELNUT DELIGHT RECIPE

What you’ll need:

2 homemade (or your favorite store-bought) pie crusts

1 jar of hazelnut spread

Directions:

1. Roll out (or unroll) pie crust.

2. Using a spoon, coat the crust in a thin layer of hazelnut spread.

3. Start at one side and carefully roll the pie crust up (leave it resting on the seam to help seal.

4. Pinch the ends to close and seal them.

5. Cut the roll into slices (approx 1/2″).

6. Set the slices on their sides on a baking sheet. These will get gooey/sticky as they bake, so you may want to use a silicone baking liner.

TIP: If you like crunchier, flakier crusts, let the rolls loosen as you set them down, opening up the pinwheel shape a bit. If you like more solid, dense treats, leave them tightly rolled. Or, like me, let them land however they will and get a bit of both. 😉

7. Bake at 375 for approx 20-25 minutes – until they are a deep golden brown.

Let cool a bit, and enjoy! You’ll be amazed at the yummy flavor. And as you read, you’ll be able to appreciate the scent and taste right along with the character. Happy Reading (and eating)!

MY REVIEW

I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited when this book came out. I already knew that the author would blow me away with her imagination and I was not disappointed at all. I am glad  to see that my friends Nova, Quentin and Laura are off on another journey together. Hands down my favorite character is Nova. I love the way she handles herself in stressful situations and never backs down from anything. 

What I found a little ironic was the storyline  about the fear of Civil War breaking out. With the turmoil that 2020 has thrown at us this year, I have heard rumors about a possible Civil War right here in the United States. Nova is on high alert as the threat draws near. I was anxious reading the story because I know the author is good at throwing twists in her stories. I say  to Nova, “get your armor on and be prepared.” I loved this quote in the book, “Life isn’t fair. Things are thrust at us we can’t control.But events don’t define us-how we respond does.” I thought this was a good example of the trials we go through in life. We may face difficult situations, but we need to have faith that God is there to help us. 

The story is very well plotted out and leaves readers wondering if Nova and her friends can survive. I think middle school aged and up would enjoy this book because it is about a group of kids around their  age. The book is filled with subtle lessons and an adventure that tops the chart of intrigue and a world like no other. Will a war break out? Can Nova and her friends keep danger from their world? Grab a copy and join the adventure .

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

Blog Stops

Ashley’s Bookshelf, December 10

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 11

April Hayman, Author, December 11

Sara Jane Jacobs, December 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 13

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 14

Texas Book-aholic, December 15

Rebecca Tews, December 16

For Him and My Family, December 17

Blogging With Carol, December 17

Inklings and notions, December 18

Through the Fire Blogs, December 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 21

Artistic Nobody, December 22 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

deb’s Book Review, December 23

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, T.E. is giving away the grand prize package of a themed basket with a one-of-a-kind natural gemstone necklace, a musical instrument, a print copy of The Song of the High King (a Bradford original), and additional books and items!!

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/104a5/child-of-destiny-celebration-tour-giveaway

Spark daily and meaningful conversations, deepen your bond as a couple, and create a unique time capsule of your relationship by answering the 365 questions in this fun, thought-provoking guided journal for couples to share over three years.

In our frenetic, fast-paced world, it can be hard to pause long enough to notice and appreciate the little things you love about your significant other. Fortunately, Our Daily Question offers an easy and interactive guide for doing just that.

By answering each of the 365 introspective questions together on the same date each year, you will get a unique and precious picture into the development of your relationship. Some of the questions focus on your spirituality and faith journeys (When was the last time you felt God nudging you to do something?), while others are meant to capture your creativity, spirit, and sense of humor (What is something you did with your childhood friends that seems ridiculous now?). All questions spark conversations and memories that span well beyond the pages of this book.

Compare your answers from one year to the next to have a written record of your thoughts, interests, faith, and love for each other. Drop a favorite photo into the picture-frame slot in the front cover and you will have a personal keepsake to treasure forever.

MY REVIEW 

I was beyond excited to get this from the publisher. There is nothing I like more than to spend time with my husband. This gem is a three year journal for couples and is well written. The hard cover makes it sturdy and will last through each entry placed there. 

We will begin using this on January 1, 2021. I did go through the book and looked at the questions. This would be perfect to give as a wedding gift. I think it would be a useful tool for churches to have as couples  go through counseling. It is geared to interact with each other and express your feelings. How fun it will be when you use it again next year. Each year the questions will be the same, but the answers may surprise you. I highly recommend this and can’t wait to start using it. 

I received this book from Ink and Willow Launch Team.
 

 

About the Book

Book: Dawn of Vengeance

Author: Ronie Kendig

Genre: FICTION / Science Fiction / Space Opera

Release Date: December 8, 2020

A haunting prophecy upended his identity. Now it demands his life.

Once a formidable bounty hunter, Marco Dusan is plagued by insecurity as he tours the realm he now rules. This quiet, backwater planet is not as untouched as he’d once thought. Evidence of collusion between Droseran factions and the powerful Symmachians with their forbidden technology litters his encounters. Worse, all signs indicate Xisya, the alien who tortured him, is still snatching Kynigos Brethren—but to what end?

Lance Corporal Eija Zacdari works hard to win a coveted place on the Symmachian hyperjump program, but instinct tells her their intel is flawed. Despite nearly failing the tests, she is assigned to the team-and lands in the middle of a bewildering conspiracy.

Haunted by a prophecy that promises pain and war, Marco forges alliances to protect the primitive world against Symmachia’s devastating influence. But one truth becomes painfully clear: the biggest threat to their world may be much, much closer to home.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Ronie Kendig is an award-winning, bestselling author of over twenty titles. An Army brat, Ronie lives a short train ride from New York City with her husband, twin sons, and two fur-sons, VVolt N629, a retired military working dog, and Benning the Stealth Golden. Described as an empath by her literary agent, Ronie has used her degree in psychology to write books that have won the coveted Christy Award, RomanticTimesReviewers’ Choice Award, The Realm Award, HOLT Medallion Award, and more. Her books have also hit the CBA Bestseller List multiple times.

 

More from Ronie

Throughout the Droseran Saga, Marco Dusan—our much-loved hero—enjoys his favorite drink, warmed Cordi. The inspiration for his citrusy-spiced drink came from a favorite family holiday tradition—“Christmas punch.” My mother-in-law received this recipe while they were stationed in Germany from a colonel’s wife. We make this every Christmas (okay, I make it a lot starting in about late October because it’s so delish). The piquant scent of cranberry, cloves, and orange fills our home every fall and holiday.

The scent of this is apropos for Marco, who tracks by scent. And, interestingly, our noses and smells are connected to memories, which just seemed to demand I come up with some way to create “Marco’s Cordi” for readers. So, this year, I used Adagio Tea’s custom-blend feature to craft a more citrusy blend of Marco’s drink. Now, that’s tea—something Marco doesn’t really enjoy—but add a quarter cup of warmed orange juice, and you’re starting to hit the sweet spot. Marco would be proud!

MY REVIEW 

Let’s see what direction I will take on this review. Will  I sing praises for the unbelievable creativity the author had? Can I describe how much I love this series and do it justice? How will I ever be able to express just how big a fan I am of a story that keeps me guessing? The easy answer to all these questions may surprise you. I can’t do any of these things without insisting you buy a copy. You need to experience every adventure, every emotional roller coaster and every character that brings something of significance to the story. 

I adore Marco and his courage to go out and seek answers he needs,  to push himself forward. My dear Marco I was beside you every step of the way. The story is definitely full of action, and emotions that even I became overwhelmed with. The author writes a wonderful story that  for me showed the will  power you can have if you want to achieve something. There is so much to tell but then why would I ruin the story for you. I will mention there were a few characters I didn’t like but for the story they were perfectly written. After all, not everyone is always happy when others overcome obstacles. The only problem I have with the story is that I have to wait for the next in the series to come out. Note to author. Please hurry with the next book. 

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 12

April Hayman, Author, December 12

Texas Book-aholic, December 13

Book Love, December 13 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Worthy2Read, December 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 14

Sara Jane Jacobs, December 15

All-of-a-kind Mom, December 15

Where Faith and Books Meet, December 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 16

Wishful Endings, December 17

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, December 17

deb’s Book Review, December 18

Simple Harvest Reads, December 18 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Artistic Nobody, December 19 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Ashley’s Bookshelf, December 19

For Him and My Family, December 20

Mia Reads, December 20

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 21

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, December 21

Through the Fire Blogs, December 22

Rachael’s Inkwell, December 22

Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 23

Inklings and notions, December 23

Inside the Wong Mind, December 24

Blogging With Carol, December 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 25

Mary Hake, December 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Ronie is giving away the grand prize package of an “Isaura” themed candle, “Marco’s Cordi” Custom Blend Tea from Adagio, a signed Hardcover of Dawn of Vengeance, and Isaura’s amulet!!

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/104a8/dawn-of-vengeance-celebration-tour-giveaway