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Monday, July 1, 2019

This Healing Journey FB Banner

About the Book

Book: This Healing Journey
Author: Misty M Beller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: July 18, 2019
This Healing Journey CoverThe mountain wilderness of her family’s home in the Canadian Rockies is all Hannah Grant has ever known. Now at the age of twenty-four, she’s on a journey to help her father to find the son he gave up for adoption three decades before. This is Hannah’s chance to discover the life she’s missed out on so far—and hopefully find a husband along the way. But she certainly doesn’t plan to fall for the first man she meets.
Years in the Calvary provided Nathaniel Peak with more than his share of violence and adventure. That life behind him, he wants nothing more than to settle down in the beautiful Montana mountains and raise his own stock—in peace. The last thing he expects is the savagely wounded child who shows up in his barn. Nor the woman he comes to rely on for the girl’s care.
Hannah can’t help but fall in love with the brave Indian child who so desperately needs her, but no matter what, she can’t let herself fall for the man whose past choices go against everything she believes in. As the situation grows worse, Hannah and Nathaniel are forced to make a heart-rending decision to save the girl’s life. Little do they imagine, the choice they make could spell disaster for them all.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

MistyMisty M. Beller writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.
She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and children now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

More from Misty

Occasionally I hear readers debate about whether they prefer to read a series of books from an author, or only standalone novels. Personally, I love series—both reading and writing them. There’s something about seeing characters I know and love from past books that makes me warm and happy inside. Can you relate?
One of the first series I wrote, the Mountain Dreams Series, included five books that told the stories of several families intertwined through marriage and God’s connections. Those characters are still so dear to my heart! When book 5 ended, I had so many readers ask for more in the series, I began dreaming of a spin-off series with a very special connection to the hero in book 5. Enter: the Heart of the Mountains Series. 
I’ve LOVED every story in this 7-book collection, taking each journey with the characters as I laughed and cried and uncovered their secrets. For the final 7thbook, I’m thrilled to announce that I’m reuniting many of the characters from BOTH series! Simeon Grant (from Heart of the Mountains, book 1) goes on a journey to find the son he gave up for adoption as an infant (the hero in Mountain Dreams, book 5).
This Healing Journey has its own leading lady, Hannah Grant (the baby born at the end of This Treacherous Journey, all grown up and as tough as any lady raised in the Canadian mountain wilderness). And a new character, Nathaniel Peak, who stars as the hero (and who I fell in love with IMMEDIATELY!).
Even if you’ve never read any of my stories, I think you’ll enjoy this one. Especially if you love adventurous mountain stories as much as I do!

Review.jpg


This book has all the makings for a great movie with adventure, danger, healing and family. I loved every minute I spent with the story and loved Hannah and Nathaniel as they became closer. I don 't want to spend my time on how they met or the history behind them, because that can be found as you read the story.

I do want to say how much I like Hannah and her compassionate heart towards the small Indian girl named Itu. The child was severely hurt and the the little group of people that helped her never complained. I could feel the girl's pain and her injuries became dangerous and there was little anyone could do. The neighbor's pitched in whenever needed and I loved how much they bonded.

The scenery surrounding them was a sight to see. Beautiful mountains and pastures ripe for farming were readily available. The food didn't sound very appetizing, but living in the frontier, you can't expect gourmet meals.

There are a few surprises in the story which enhanced the plot and made it flow with intrigue. The dangers of living in the wilderness was always just a step away from them. I particularly liked the part when Hannah and Nathaniel become captives of the Indians. The real danger was with the father of Itu. He was angry seeing his child suffer and wanted to take it out on Hannah. That scene is very hard to read and I held my breath thinking I knew what was going to happen.

 The author fills the pages with details of Indian ways and it became clear that Hannah was being targeted for a reason. I was on the edge of my seat as Hannah tried desperately to escape. I have never read a more intense scene than the one played out between Hannah and Itu's father. It is one that will make you hold your breath as you quickly turn the pages. 

I'm sad to see the series end, but the author has succeeded in delivering a journey of hope, love, and faith. There are times I cried and times I smiled as the characters travel to their destination. The faith element was perfect in the story and I am satisfied with the ending of a series that captures the frontier in a story filled with many challenges.

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

Blog Stops

Among the Reads, June 19
Wishful Endings, June 20
CarpeDiem, June 23
Bigreadersite, June 26
Splashes of Joy, June 27
Mary Hake, June 28
Pause for Tales, June 30

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away a $50 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/e50e/this-healing-journey-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, June 30, 2019

The Pink Bonnet FB Banner

About the Book

Book: The Pink Bonnet
Author: Liz Tolsma
Genre: Christian Historical, Suspense
Release date: June, 2019
The Pink Bonnet CoverA Desperate Mother Searches for Her Child
Step into True Colors—a new series of Historical Stories of Romance and American Crime
Widowed in Memphis during 1932, Cecile Dowd is struggling to provide for her three-year-old daughter. Unwittingly trusting a neighbor puts little Millie Mae into the clutches of Georgia Tann, corrupt Memphis Tennessee Children’s Home Society director suspected of the disappearance of hundreds of children. With the help of a sympathetic lawyer, the search for Millie uncovers a deep level of corruption that threatens their very lives.
How far will a mother go to find out what happened to her child?


About the Author

Liz TolsmaLiz Tolsma is a popular speaker and an editor and the owner of the Write Direction Editing. An almost-native Wisconsinite, she resides in a quiet corner of the state with her husband and is the mother of three. Her son proudly serves as a U.S. Marine. They adopted all of their children internationally, and one has special needs. When she gets a few spare minutes, she enjoys reading, relaxing on the front porch, walking, working in her large perennial garden, and camping with her family.

More from Liz

A Desperate Mother Searches for Her Child
True, riveting stories of American criminal activity are explored through 6 unique stories of historical romantic suspense in the exciting new True Colorsseries.
In book two, The Pink Bonnet, Widowed in Memphis during 1932, Cecile Dowd is struggling to provide for her three-year-old daughter. Unwittingly trusting a neighbor puts little Millie Mae into the clutches of Georgia Tann, corrupt Memphis Tennessee Children’s Home Society director suspected of the disappearance of hundreds of children. With the help of a sympathetic lawyer, the search for Millie uncovers a deep level of corruption that threatens their very lives.
How far will a mother go to find out what happened to her child? Find out in The Pink Bonnet by Liz Tolsma.
The True Crime Behind the Story
Georgia Tann was a woman who ran an adoption agency in Memphis, Tennessee, from 1924 until 1950. It is estimated that, in that time, she kidnapped over five thousand children and sold them to the highest bidder. She even advertised the children in the newspaper, especially around the holidays. Some of the nation’s biggest celebrities adopted through Miss Tann, including Joan Crawford, Dick Powell, and June Allyson. Learn more about Georgia Tann HERE and visit www.TrueColorsCrime.com for more exclusive content.



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If you are looking for a feel good happily ever after book, this is the wrong book. What you will find is a story based on a true crime by a sinister, heartless and ruthless woman named Georgia Tann. I could not dislike a person more than this horrible woman. I was angry throughout the book that innocent children and parents were victimized by a woman who wanted nothing but power and money. 

Cecile was raising her young girl alone since her husband passed away. She struggled with bills, but her child was well taken care of.  I loved her devotion to her child Millie and how much love she showed her. When a series of events take place, Cecile finds her daughter taken away from her home and put up for adoption. I still can't understand why her neighbor didn't seem to think it was suspicious that Millie was being taken away knowing how much Cecile loved her. I think the neighbor was led to believe that the child was in danger and not being taken care of properly.

I won't go into a lot of the story because it needs to be read so readers can feel the agony that Cecile went through trying to find her daughter. I will say that many children fell through the cracks due to Georgia Tann and not all were returned to the rightful parents. I can't imagine what torture it would be to know your child had been taken and you had no idea where they were.

The author has written a very emotional story that captivated my full attention. I could not put it down and read it in a few hours. The details are painful to read at times and you can feel the adrenaline rush as the search for Millie starts to escalate. Cecile finds someone to help her and their lives are put in danger as they get closer to the truth. It is an intense read that will have you on the edge of your seat. Get ready for a powerful story written with depth, emotion and an ending that won't be forgotten.

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

Blog Stops

The Becca Files, June 20
Livin’ Lit, June 20
Mary Hake, June 23
Moments, June 24
Remembrancy, June 26
Emily Yager, June 26
Genesis 5020, June 27
Changed by Him, June 28
Bigreadersite, June 28
Pause for Tales, June 29
Hallie Reads, June 30
By The Book, July 2
amandainpa, July 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Liz is giving away a grand prize that includes a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of The Pink Bonnet!!
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/e331/the-pink-bonnet-celebration-tour-giveaway
THE BRIDES OF BIG VALLEY by
WANDA BRUNSTETTER

This is a wonderful collection of stories that examine the different lifestyles of the Amish. Each have different rules and even different colors of buggies. Some are very strict as others are a bit more relaxed. I loved finding out more about the differences and how they each had one common thread. They were dedicated to their faith and always helped their neighbors out. I enjoyed how the author brings characters from the different stories together at some point. It was a surprise to have them a part of each story and for me brought the entire book together. Be sure to look for cameos of different characters as you read these charming stories.

Deanna’s Determination
I enjoyed this story and how one of the characters, Abner had Downs Syndrome. The author doesn’t shy away from talking about the handicap and how much of a blessing the child is. Deanna is trying to make ends meet when her husband dies. Going to the market and selling her goods is hard when you have an active child to watch as well. The author explains about Down Syndrome and helps readers understand the challenges families face. Abner was a delight to get to know and I especially loved that he seemed to always be happy.

Deanna has been through several tragedies but has a great friend in Elmer. He has been there to help her when needed but his feelings go deeper than just friendship. There is joy when Deanna says yes to marrying Elmer. He has wanted this for so long and he is excited to have Abner as his son. The bond between them is very special, but something happens to change everything. Will Elmer and Anna overcome this setback? Can Elmer swallow his pride and allow the woman he loves to help him? I loved the story and found it interesting to read about how in a minute your life can change forever.

Rose Mary's Resolve
 This story is about Rose Mary and finding her way to what God has called her for. She has a young man who adores her, but she has said several times she is not interested. He will not take no for an answer and seems to push her to continue going out with him. I did like how excited she was to work in the family furniture store. It is a big step for her and shows her becoming more responsible and maturing.

Tom can be pretty persuasive and he is trying hard to push Rose Mary into the English world. It can be tempting to some who wonder what it would be like to drive a car, wear clothes other than Amish and go anywhere you wanted. Will Rose Mary be tempted to dip her toes in another culture? When a plane lands in an Amish field, I could just image the shocked look on the neighbors faces. Luckily the pilot is not seriously  injured and Rose Mary's family takes him in to help him. As Kevin stays with the family while his plane is being repaired, Rose Mary seems to be getting attached to him. They share lunches together and he enjoys helping around the farm. I think Rose Mary's parents are hoping his plane gets fixed soon so he can leave. They are becoming concerned about the closeness Rose Mary and Kevin are sharing.

It is a wonderful story of making choices and following God's direction. I loved the way Rose Mary stuck to her belief's while deciding if Kevin was the right person for her. The story is a nice look at the Amish life and how devoted they are to family.

Leila's Longing

Leila is a sweet young woman who helps run the family shop. She is very uncomfortable around people at times. She is not sure of herself and often wonders why she has not caught the eye of any young men in the community. It doesn't help that an old friend of hers comes into the shop and reminds her how lonely she really is.

With her mother's encouragement, she suggests Leila should spend more time around people her own age. Maybe she could attend some of the singing get together's for young people. I could relate to Leila so easily. I was pretty unhappy as a child and very shy. I didn't want to hang out with anyone and I was picked on a lot.

I liked how Leila started to become comfortable after she met Aden at the singing. He didn't like the way she was treated at the singing and is intrigued by her. Maybe he can help her overcome her shyness and start to open up to him. This story is emotional and brought tears to my eyes. I loved how Leila started to come out of her shell and express her feelings to Aden. There are many changes that happen to her and her family that will help Leila become more confidant and be able to forgive those who had hurt her in the past.

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The review is my own opinion.





The Cabin FB Banner

About the Book

Book: The Cabin
Author: Erin Unger
Genre: Romantic suspense
Release date: June 14, 2019
The CabinLeah Kettridge’s writing career is over before the first book lands on the shelf, when a famous author has claimed she’s stolen his work. If it wasn’t for a story brainstorming luncheon with her sister, he’d have never overheard her conversation about the novel she was writing. Who will she ever trust again if not her most favorite writer? And what about the one fabulous date they had before she knew what a traitor he was?
Keenan Brinner has it all. He’s a best-selling author who’s only headed toward more greatness. And he must be the most gorgeous guy Leah’s ever seen. But he’s also a liar and a cheat.
When they end up at the same cabin to write, emotions explode. But an unexpected snowstorm traps them deep in the mountains. Is he bent on destroying her in more ways than one? How will love find them amidst all their anger and distrust?

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Ering UngerErin Unger was raised in the hills of Virginia, exploring abandoned houses and reading the scariest books she could find. After marrying so young it would make a great romance novel, she has enjoyed an exciting life with her hubby. But her fast-paced life sometimes rivals the suspense in her books thanks to all her mostly grown children and a couple grandkids. Her next novel, Fateful Fall, releases August 9, 2019.

More from Erin

Glittery snow. The perfect cabin in the mountains. And sworn enemies trapped together. How could anything go wrong?
Welcome to the cabin where writers like to go to get away from the noise and bother of life to write. I hope you don’t mind the two guests already here. They’re stuck together after one stole the other’s novel. But the famous one has firsts rights to the work. Who’d dare believe he’d be the perpetrator of the crime? Or is it the newbie writer who longed to be known for more than her graphic designs who plagiarized?
Stay and enjoy a mug of instant coffee and some potted meat. And make sure to bring in your warmest blanket, since this eclectic home has lost power in the storm.
You’ll also find a complementary cordless phone with no connection for your accommodations.
Enjoy your stay! And take a moment to check out our amenities folder laden with an expert below.

Read an excerpt from The Cabin

Betrayal is such a benign looking word on paper. In real life it could kill a person. Like me. I was dying on the inside as I flipped from one page to the next of the bestselling novel in my hands. And all because of Keenan Brennan—the hottest bestselling author I knew and dated some time ago. Yet some part of me kept praying it wasn’t true as I pressed into the sofa cushion and continued to read.
It just couldn’t be.
But the book with the startlingly dark cover said it all.
“No, no, no.”
Hot tears stung my cheeks as I ripped the well-designed cover off the book and then launched it across the living room. It smashed against the refurbished brick wall and landed with its pages bent. Good. It deserved a worse fate than just bent pages.
How? When had he stolen my book idea?
I face-planted my palm against my forehead. “At the restaurant.”
Why didn’t I keep my big fat mouth shut and tell my sister Aeris the storyline in the privacy of my home? Tears stung my eyes. Who’d have guessed my lowdown almost boyfriend would stoop so low. He didn’t need my work.
I stared across the room, not focusing on the heap of a good—terrible—book. Well it was on the NYT bestselling list. Not bad for a nobody writer like myself. And since it was my story—not his—then I allowed myself a moment of self-satisfaction.
My gaze dropped to the torn book. I had to take another look. Couldn’t it be a coincidence? Maybe the rest of it was different. In a scramble, I grabbed it up and found the page I last read.
By chapter forty there was no doubt.

Review.jpg


The story is short and maybe needed to have more depth . The characters were not easy to relate to and kinda irritated me. I couldn't  understand how a person rents out a place not knowing someone was already there. The plot is somewhat clunky and predictable. Leah goes to the cabin to get away and hopefully write and try to forget about  Keenan. It isn't easy to forget that someone not only stole your story, but then accuses you of plagiarism.

Keenan is a best selling author and the last person he wants to see is Leah. Being stuck in the cabin with her did lead to some interesting conversations. There are some good parts in the story where they each start to open up to each other and let their guard down. I'm still confused how they both wrote basically the same story . I didn't find much of a faith element in the book and that disappointed me. 

Overall it is more of a relationship gone astray because of a misunderstanding. Getting trapped in a cabin together brings them to face each other and work out their differences. The ending seemed rushed and felt like parts of the story had been left out.  

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

Blog Stops

Carpe Diem, June 29
Remembrancy, July 7
Moments, July 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Erin is giving away a themed basket that includes a copy of The Cabin!!
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/e50d/the-cabin-celebration-tour-giveaway