About the Book

Book:  One Hundred Valleys

Author: Bonnie Leon

Genre:  Historical Romance

Release Date: March 15, 2020

After the death of her mother, Emmalin Hammond discovers she is not the heiress she’d always assumed she’d be. The revelation exposes her fiancé true intentions when he withdraws his marriage proposal, leaving Emmalin heartbroken and humiliated. When she discovers the father she believed to be dead is still alive and living in the Oregon Territory she decides it is time to meet the man who has been hidden from her all of her life.

Accompanied by her Uncle Jonathon she sets out for the Oregon Territory in search of answers and hoping for a renewed relationship with her father. When tragedy strikes, she confronts the terrifying challenge of completing her quest alone. Faced with few options, she entrusts her life to a mountain man named Jacob Landon who agrees to transport her to a small settlement in Southern Oregon called Deer Creek, a place also known as the Land of One Hundred Valleys.

Emmalin is not prepared for the hardships of life in the Oregon wilderness. Each day presents a new challenge. Newfound friends, including the reserved Jacob Landon, come alongside to help her adapt and she gradually finds her way. Yet, she feels out of place. Should she brave the arduous journey back to Philadelphia and the life she once knew or remain and hope for something better in the Oregon wilderness?

Click here to get your copy!

MY REVIEW 

One of the things that drew me to this book was the adventure across country in the late 1850’s. I loved how vividly the author  describes the terrain and the danger that Emmalin faced. The story reminded me of my grandfather so much. He traveled by wagon to homestead his land in Oklahoma. The stories he told me were very similar to the one in this book with storms, Indians, hunting for food and months on the trail. I fell in love with the way the author writes with such power and emotions. 

I have not heard of this author before, but she is now on my list as a favorite of mine. Her writing explodes on the pages as she brings the characters to life. It was easy for me to like a Emmalin. Her desire to reconnect with her father is a journey of reconciliation, forgiveness and trust. She has lost her faith and I enjoyed reading how she was open about being angry at God. 

Jacob is a wonderful character with compassion for the Indians. He has lived on his own for awhile but  he has deep  connection to the Indians . I am always sad when I read how land was taken away from the Indians and forced to live on reservations. I am part Comanche and this part of the story really made me emotional. The author does an outstanding job of showing both sides of this part in history . Jacob also has strong faith and his talks with Emmalin about God were very honest without being pushy. 

There were a few times in the story where I tired of Emmalin going back and forth about staying in Deer Creek or returning home. I knew exactly what she needed to do but she wouldn’t listen to me. Yes I hollered at her as she rocked back and forth with her decision. Oh my goodness that girl needed to see what was right in front of her. I loved how the story shows us how important family is and how forgiveness releases joy in your life.

 I have enjoyed every minute I spent with Emmalin on her journey to find her father and experience the pioneer days . It is an emotional story that allows readers to see the hardship Indians endured as their land  was taken away. Jacob teaches us to look past the color of skin and see the heart of people while showing Emmalin a simpler way of life. Don’t miss this epic tale of the Wild West where God is always there to guide His people. 

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

About the Author

Bonnie Leon is the author of twenty-two novels, including the recently released Return to the Misty Shore, the popular Alaskan Skies and bestselling The Journey of Eleven Moons. Bonnie’s books are being read internationally and she hears from readers in Australia, Europe, Poland, and even Africa. She enjoys speaking for women’s groups and mentoring up and coming authors.

Bonnie and her husband, Greg, live in Southern Oregon. They have three grown children and seven grandchildren.

More from Bonnie

Why this story?

In the spring of 1980 my husband and I, our two-year-old son, and our infant daughter left city life in Washington state and moved to Southern Oregon. We gave up our community of friends and family along with my husband’s reliable and well-paying job. Our friends thought we were crazy, but we were determined that Oregon was where we belonged. We were scared but not deterred.

I think the change in my own life as a young woman had a lot to do with why I wrote this story of Emmalin Hammond. To be sure, Emmalin’s level of difficulty and danger is distinctly different than mine, but there are similarities. We both experienced adventures, joy, and, yes, even danger.

Oregon has been my home for forty years now, and I am glad my husband and I made the decision to move here. We’ve had a good life in this wild and beautiful country. Sometimes I wonder about the women who made that choice during the nineteenth century. Emmalin set out on her harrowing journey to Oregon in the spring of 1855. Many who began that journey did not make it across the plains and desserts of America.

When I put down roots in Douglas County, Oregon I was thrilled to be here, but the changes weren’t all easy. The old farmhouse we lived in had more broken windows than intact ones. It was mouse infested. The plumbing needed major repair. And yet I loved it. The countryside was lush and green, and the rolling hillsides were dotted with farm animals, wildlife, and broad-limbed oak trees. There were wild blackberries sprawling along the farm’s fences and fresh fruit in our orchard. It looked much the same as the Oregon Emmalin discovered in my story, One Hundred Valleys.

I loved hard work and spent a lot of time splitting logs for our only heat source—a wood burning stove—felling trees on our new property, and working alongside my husband in our vegetable garden.

I had run-ins with things like poison oak and skunks, but that did not dampen my enthusiasm as a new Oregonian. I loved picking wild blackberries, fishing the high mountain lakes, hiking mountain trails, and fishing the North Umpqua river. I cherished those days as a farm wife and mother. Those were the best years of my life. I have never regretted our move to the beautiful land of one hundred valleys in Southern Oregon.

I am thankful for the early explorers who challenged the wilderness in the Oregon Territory more than a century ago. It is their courage and determination that made it possible for me and my family to live and thrive in this beautiful place.

Blog Stops

A Baker’s Perspective, April 15

Through the Lens of Scripture, April 15

Texas Book-aholic, April 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 16

Reading Is My SuperPower, April 16

For Him and My Family, April 17

Read Review Rejoice, April 17

Inklings and notions, April 18

Bigreadersite, April 18

Emily Yager, April 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 19

Lis Loves Reading, April 19

Stories By Gina, April 19

Betti Mace, April 20

Pause for Tales, April 20

My Devotional Thoughts, April 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 21

Splashes of Joy, April 21

deb’s Book Review, April 21

Simple Harvest Reads, April 22 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

To Everything There Is A Season, April 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 23

Worthy2Read, April 23

Daysong Reflections, April 23

Older & Smarter?, April 24

Through the Fire Blogs, April 24

Blossoms and Blessings, April 25

janicesbookreviews, April 25

For the Love of Literature, April 26

Vicky Sluiter, April 26

Mary Hake, April 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 27

Genesis 5020, April 27

Artistic Nobody, April 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

With a Joyful Noise, April 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Bonnie is giving away the grand prize package of a $15 Amazon Gift Card and Vintage Oregon myrtle wood porringer bowl!!

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/f8e0/one-hundred-valleys-celebration-tour-giveaway

WELCOME TO THE CHANGE OF HEART REVIEW PROMO BLAST PRESENTED BY
CELEBRATE LIT

A modern new century brings a young Amish woman an unexpected new life—and a chance to discover love's true way home…

Ohio, 1899. Soft-spoken midwife Becca Yost lived by her Amish faith's strict rules—until her fiancé jilted her before their entire community. She's never been away from home, but the bustling Englischer town of Massillon, Ohio, is a welcome unexpected refuge. Especially when she goes to work for Dr. Matt Carrington, who shares her passion for healing those in need. His outgoing spirit and gentle strength show Becca a surprising new world of choices—and irresistible love. But there is one formidable obstacle: Matt's wealthy mother is determined her son will marry a society woman.

With her newfound resolve challenged, Becca decides that she and Matt must not be destined for each other after all. She accepts that she will have to forge a life alone—until a wrenching crisis and life-changing revelations teach her that true faith lies in all things, especially impossible second chances. . .


MY REVIEW

This is a different kind of Amish book than I am use to. It is set in the late 1890s and has 

a flair of the old west to it. I fell in love with the story and couldn't put it down.

 Becca Yost has decided to come stay with her sister Ruth and try to 

overcome the embarrassment of being jilted by her fiancé . Becca is a very kind and gentle

 Amish woman who is trained as a midwife.

After arriving in town, she becomes injured and meets the very handsome Dr. Matt Carrington.

 He takes care of her injury and there seems to be a bit of a spark between them.

 Becca finds herself working at Matt's clinic as his nurse and they begin a courtship.

 Not everyone is happy with this infatuation. Can a plain Amish woman fit in a 

world of prestige and wealth? I enjoyed the conflict between Becca and 

Matt's mother very much. It shows how a person can judge another 

without knowing them. Do we sometimes do the same thing?

The story is filled with judgment, hurt, betrayal and God's never ending love. 

The author has written a story that will have you feeling empathy and compassion for some.

 Does Matt's mother show mercy towards Becca? Will Matt's parents ever accept Becca?

 Can a person really change their heart? I highly recommend this book to 

readers who love a well written story that shows how judging 

someone can cause hurt and conflict. As I finished the book, I sat for a moment to remind myself , 

"Judge not, lest you be judged." I also loved the quilt pocket that different characters

 made that had a note or letter in it. What a treasure it would be to receive such 

a heartwarming and personal gift from someone. The author has done an exceptional 

job of writing a story that shows that love does conquer all and with faith restoration is possible.

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

Molly Jebber is an award-winning author of Amish Historical Romance. Molly’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly, USA Today’s HEA, featured in video on Naples News and Romantic Times. She’s a touring speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, and she offers presentations on writing, marketing, agent or no agent, publishing, and the Amish lifestyles and traditions. She’s been a guest lecturer for conferences, author events, and at Ohio State University for an event in 2020.

CHANGE OF HEART, GRACE’S FORGIVENESS, & TWO SUITORS FOR ANNA – these books are her Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series. LIZA’S SECOND CHANCE, ELLIE’S REDEMPTION, & HANNAH’S COURAGE are her Amish Charm Bakery Series books. Check her website www.mollyjebber.com for more of her books and where she’ll be next! She loves God, her family, and friends. She says yes to swimming, the beach, golf, and time with her family and friends, and no to coconut, onions, and skydiving!

facebook.com/mollymorrisjebber

twitter.com/mollymjebber

pinterest.com/mollymjebber

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/molly-jebber

Amazon Purchase Link

https://amzn.to/36i3Jiw

About the Book

Book:  The Sequence to Success

Author: Samuel R. Chand

Genre:  Christian non-fiction, self help

Release Date: February, 2020

Every one of us gets anywhere in life due to three things: someone observes us, forms an opinion about us, and decides to give us an opportunity…or not. Likewise, we do the same thing with others. People have played this essential role in our lives, and we play it in the lives of those around us—and no matter how skilled we’ve become, we can play it even better.

The sequence applies in business, the church, marriages, parenting, and friendships. We often assess others in the blink of an eye. We instinctively notice the look on someone’s face, the tone of voice, or the body language that’s consistent or different from the words being spoken. We react to our observation, but we seldom stop to analyze before we respond—it just happens, and it happens immediately: we observe and have an opinion, and based on what we’ve determined in that second, we either give the person an opportunity to engage with us or we close the door and remain guarded.

The Sequence to Success: Three O’s That Will Take You Anywhere in Life is a leadership book, but it’s not limited to corporate presidents, CEOs, or lead pastors; it’s for everyone who has a position of influence in another person’s life—and that includes all of us. In this book, Sam Chand brings our subconscious assumptions into the light. With more insight and confidence, you’ll make better decisions to advance the people around you…or perhaps show them the door. These principles also help you become more conscious that people are observing you and forming opinions about you that will open or close doors of opportunity.

Click here to get your copy!

 MY REVIEW

This book has nuggets of helpful information that are encouraging . We all want to be successful but at times we struggle in that area. Leaders in a church do observe others in order to discern who might make great leaders. I liked how the author explained that we are to do our best at everything. People may  be watching how we work, but God is watching our attitude. Are we cheerful and respectful? Do we represent the heartbeat of God?

I will never forget the day I was promoted at the library I worked at. I went through all the interview process even though everyone knew me. All I thought about was failing and being embarrassed in front of my peers if I was turned down for the job. Little did I know that I had been observed by my boss for awhile. When I was told I got the promotion, I was excited. I was now a supervisor of twenty-six people in my dream job at the library. My boss called me  into her office one day. I had no idea what she wanted to talk to me about. To my surprise she let me know the reason I got the promotion over others that had applied. She said, “ You were chosen for your leadership ability, your integrity and your passion.” There is something about you that draws people to you.” Do your best at everything and you will be rewarded “, I heard Jesus whisper as I walked out of my bosses’s office. 

I’m one of those people who work well under stress. If there is a crisis I’m the one people at work  people would come to. It is not easy to here critical things said about you. If it is given in the right way, it will help you grow and learn  from your mistakes. Our attitude is very important and the author gives great examples of how to have a good attitude and not push people away. Have you ever smiled at a stranger and had them  smile back? Do you say hi to someone in a store as you pass them? The response we get from people will depend on our attitude. No one wants to be around an unhappy person everyday. When I was working I always brought my A game. I wanted to make my patrons at the library feel welcome. It was important for my staff to work well with each other. I was their example and wanted them to follow my example of a person who is approachable.

I have received a lot of valuable input from this book. I would encourage this to be a must read for every leader in a church as well as  in the workforce. We can only go as far as our leaders take us. If they don’t have good work ethics, it is hard to expect others to follow them. The author made a great point in letting readers know that this book is for everyone who is in or desires to be a leader. As I finished the book I thought about being a leader in our home. Our children observe us and imitate our actions. Are we being good examples for them to follow? When we go to church are we bringing our best attitude? This book gets a permanent spot in my bookcase. I need to be reminded sometimes  to have a good attitude, observe what is around me and  always do everything with my whole heart. 

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

About the Author

Sam Chand’s singular vision for his life is to help others succeed. A prolific author and renowned international leadership consultant, he speaks regularly at conferences, corporations, business roundtables, seminars, and other leadership development opportunities.
Being raised in a pastor’s home in India has uniquely equipped Sam to share his passion to mentor, develop, and inspire leaders to break all limits. He has been called a dream releaser, leadership architect, and change strategist.

In the 1970s, as a student at Beulah Heights College, Sam served as a janitor, cook, and dishwasher to finance his education. He returned in 1989 as president—and under his leadership, Beulah Heights University became the country’s largest predominantly African-American Christian college.

Sam holds an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Beulah Heights University, an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Heritage Bible College, a Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling from Grace Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Education from Beulah Heights. He has mentored leaders in churches and ministries as well as international corporations and business start-ups. He was named one of the top thirty global leadership gurus by www.leadershipgurus.net.
Sam has authored more than a dozen books on leadership, including New Thinking, New Future; Culture Catalyst; Bigger Faster Leadership; Leadership Pain; Who’s Holding Your Ladder?; What’s Shakin’ Your Ladder?; and 12 Success Factors of an Organization.
For more information or to connect with Sam, please visit www.samchand.com.

More from Sam

Success in life comes when we understand how observations lead to opinions that can open doors of opportunity or slam them shut.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 10

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 11

Artistic Nobody, April 12 (Spotlight)

Texas Book-aholic, April 13

Inklings and notions, April 14

Simple Harvest Reads, April 15 (Spotlight)

For Him and My Family, April 16

Emily Yager, April 17

Through the Fire Blogs, April 18 (Spotlight)

deb’s Book Review, April 19

Mary Hake, April 20

Andrea Christenson, April 21 (Spotlight)

Create! Teach! Inspire!, April 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 23

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Sam is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card and finished copy of the book!!

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/f8d5/sequence-of-success-celebration-tour-giveaway

A BEAUTIFUL ARRANGEMENT by BETH WISEMAN

There are a few authors that I can always count on to write stories that move me.  They are able to penetrate my heart with words of hope and give me a deeper understanding of God. The author of this book is one of those who can dig deep into a character’s emotions and bring them through darkness.  

Lydia is far older in wisdom than most seventeen year olds. She made a mistake and finds herself married and with a baby. One bad decision changed her life but I loved how she has embraced the path God has taken her. There is much to learn from Lydia as she struggles in her marriage. One very important aspect of any marriage is communication. Without sharing things with your spouse it can cause a way for  the enemy to slither in and whisper lies to tear the union apart. 

Samuel was a good character and it was easy to see how frustrated he was in his marriage. When he married Lydia he had hopes of a good marriage including intimacy. In his mind he felt like a Lydia was withholding intimacy from him because she was angry. It was so special to read how these two young adults were faithful and turned to God to heal their marriage. 

One of the lessons in the story  is forgiveness. The author lets us see through the hearts of several characters how important forgiveness is. I really liked Joseph and Beverly’s story and how the author explores the destruction a lie can cause in a relationship. Beverly has kept a secret from everyone that has burdened her. Lies always get exposed and when they do, the mistrust comes in. Joseph is a good man but at some point he has to turn to God to help him with  forgiveness. This part of the story is powerful and will have a lasting impact  on me. 

The character I loved the most was the homeless  woman. The loneliness and rejection this woman has endured broke my heart. This part of the story had me shaking because I so wanted someone to reach out to her and show her love. I couldn’t help but want to push someone toward her and share God’s love with her. I won’t give this part of the story away because it is a great example of being  God’s hands and feet. To look past the outside and see the broken heart inside is what each of us should be doing. Life is short and we need to make the most of every day. When you see someone hurting , go to them and offer compassion. 

The story is a masterpiece of emotions and a realistic look at forgiveness, sharing God’s Word, communication and loving unconditionally. 

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

About the Book

Book:  Love in Pictures

Author: Alexis A. Goring

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Release Date: June 12, 2018

Wedding photographer Michelle Hadley has a passion for diversity and believes that love comes in all colors. So, she’s working hard to convince editors to feature her clients’ images on the covers of the mainstream bridal and wedding magazines.

Despite having a career that focuses on celebrating forever love, Michelle has never actually been in a romantic relationship, and she’s not looking for love, until she meets the one man she cannot forget.

Since his fiancée broke his heart, Logan Emerson’s focus has been on his career. He’s won awards for his work as a print journalist and dreams of greater success on television as a broadcast journalist. But his personal struggle presents many challenges that might prevent his dreams from coming true.

Michelle doesn’t date often, and since his heartbreak, Logan has shied away from the dating scene. But something about Michelle awakens Logan’s desire to love again.

Click here for your copy.

MY REVIEW

 Michelle seems to be content with her job as a photographer and keeps herself pretty busy. I think it would be a lot of fun to be a wedding photographer. You get to share in the happiness with the couple and see beautiful dresses and destinations. I really liked Michelle and how easy going she is. I don’t think there is anything in her heart but love for God and compassion for others.

Logan is a little bit unsure of himself and at times a childhood problem of stuttering shows up at the most unpleasant times. It was nice to read how Michelle and Logan caught each other’s attention. They didn’t see the color of skin only a kind face and an attraction that could become something more. The story explores racism in a way that was easy to understand. Michelle’s brother has a big problem with Logan dating his sister simply because he is white. It made me upset to realize that prejudice still goes on today. 

The author writes a beautiful story of love and forgiveness. The readers get a glimpse of what it is like for someone of color. God wants us to love each other for who we are on the inside. The color of our skin shouldn’t cause others to treat us differently. This story is a great example of how some people judge others for their appearance . Someday I hope we can all see each other the way God does. 

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

About the Author

Alexis A. Goring is a writer at heart and journalist by profession.

She loves the storytelling process, including everything from interviewing people for news media and faith-based publications to writing the story, editing the story and publishing the story.

Alexis is an author of Inspirational Romance fiction stories and nonfiction devotionals that inspire the heart. She has written and published three fiction books and her devotionals have appeared in numerous faith-based publications.

Always up for a new adventure, Alexis has traveled to Italy where she explored the culture, food and language with friends. She even moved to Montana (where the air is fresh and the land is beautiful) to take her first big break in Journalism as the Editor and Reporter for a county newspaper!

Photography is another passion that’s close to her heart. Alexis enjoys using her camera to capture the genuine emotions that people naturally display on joyous occasions. She is experienced in natural light photography and photojournalism.

Music is another passion that Alexis has loved forever. Listening to movie soundtracks from her favorite productions feels like a hug for her heart. She loves it when the bridge of a song makes you feel like you’re taking flight!

A total foodie, Alexis not only enjoys eating delicious food at her favorite restaurants, but she’s also a talented baker and chef.

At the end of the day, Alexis hopes that her love for Jesus Christ will shine through all of her creative endeavors. She prays that her writing will warm hearts and point people to God who loves them with all of His Heart!

You can learn more about Alexis as a creative professional by visiting her official website, https://alexisagoring.jimdo.com.

More from Alexis

My book, Love in Pictures, was born out of my love for wedding photography!

A dream of my heart as an adult (not before then) was to be a wedding photographer. I’d always enjoyed taking pictures but it wasn’t until my college years when friends started telling me, based on my pictures, that they’re going to hire me to be their wedding photographer when they get married. These requests sparked the dream within me. After college, I formed friendships with wedding photographers through the blog world.

I’d spend hours browsing through their professional portfolios and reading their photography blogs, completely amazed at the gorgeousness of their pictures. I admired their skills and enjoyed reading their client stories.

After graduating from college, I received requests from my college friends to photograph weddings. However, I could not afford the photography equipment and I’d never actually photographed a wedding. So I kindly turned down those offers and referred my friends to photographers who had years of experience specializing in wedding photography.

Love in Pictures was a wonderful way for me to safely explore my passion for wedding photography through my story’s heroine Michelle. It was fun to showcase her photography studio in a beautiful town, travel with her to one of the world’s most romantic destinations (Italy) where she was hired to shoot her first international wedding, “eat” all the delicious food that she enjoyed, and it was really fun to introduce the possibility of Michelle’s own happily ever after by inserting Logan into her life.

When the reader meets Logan, they will see his passion for running and they will learn of his heartbreak from a previous relationship. As the reader gets to know Logan, they’ll learn that he is a successful print journalist who dreams of greater success on TV as a broadcast journalist. As they turn the pages of Love in Pictures, they will discover that Logan suffers from a personal struggle that threatens to derail his dreams.

I drew on my training as a print journalist and real world experiences in the Journalism industry to effectively write Logan’s character. I pulled on my own imagination along with some real life experience to write the scenes where he faithfully wooed and pursued Michelle.

I always said that if I knew I would never fail, I’d be a wedding photographer. But since failure is part of real-life, I explored the industry of capturing love in pictures safely, where failure is not a reality: Writing a fictional story about a wedding photographer!

I enjoyed writing this story! I hope that you will enjoy reading it.

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, April 8

Batya’s Bits, April 9

Simple Harvest Reads, April 10 (Author Interview)

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, April 10

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, April 11

Texas Book-aholic, April 12

For the Love of Literature, April 13 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 14

Blossoms and Blessings, April 15 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, April 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 16

Through the Fire Blogs, April 17

For Him and My Family, April 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 19 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 20

Artistic Nobody, April 21 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Alexis is giving away the grand prize package of one e-book copy of Love in Pictures, an e-book copy of Hope in My Heart: A Collection of Heartwarming Stories, and a $10 Amazon 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/f8c6/love-in-pictures-celebration-tour-giveaway