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Friday, March 23, 2018

The Uninvited Corpse (Food Blogger Mysteries)
by Debra Sennefelder

Wow- where do I begin? This is a fantastic start to a new series I hope will offer many future books. This series has all the wonderful elements cozy readers look forward to.
~Laura’s Interests 
The small town of Jefferson, Connecticut is a great setting, as I love anything associated with New England, and I was quickly drawn into the community.
~The Power of Words
The promise made by the book synopsis was excellently fulfilled by the reading of the text. Two things that caught and held my interest while reading The Uninvited Corpse was Hope’s character and the mystery(ies) itself.
~Back Porchervations

About the Book


The Uninvited Corpse (Food Blogger Mysteries)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Kensington (March 27, 2018)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1496715920
Digital ASIN: B073NNPM7G
Leaving behind a failed career as a magazine editor and an embarrassing stint on a reality baking show, newly divorced lifestyle entrepreneur Hope Early thought things were finally on the upswing—until she comes face-to-face with a murderer . . .
Hope’s schedule is already jam packed with recipe testing and shameless plugs for her food blog as she rushes off to attend a spring garden tour in the charming town of Jefferson, Connecticut. Unfortunately, it isn’t the perfectly arranged potted plants that grab her attention—it’s the bloody body of reviled real estate agent Peaches McCoy . . .
One of the tour guests committed murder, and all eyes are on Hope’s older sister, Claire Dixon—who, at best, saw Peaches as a professional rival. And suspicions really heat up when another murder occurs the following night. Now, with two messy murders shaking Jefferson and all evidence pointing to Claire, Hope must set aside her burgeoning brand to prove her sister’s innocence. But the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she gets to a killer intent on making sure her life goes permanently out of style . . .
Includes Recipes from Hope’s Kitchen!

About the Author

Debra Sennefelder, the author of the Food Blogger Mystery series and the Resale Boutique Mystery series, is an avid reader who reads across a range of genres, but mystery fiction is her obsession. Her interest in people and relationships is channeled into her novels against a backdrop of crime and mystery. When she’s not reading, she enjoys cooking and baking and as a former food blogger, she is constantly taking photographs of her food. Yeah, she’s that person.
Born and raised in New York City, she now lives and writes in Connecticut with her family. She’s worked in pre-hospital care, retail and publishing. Her writing companions are her adorable and slightly spoiled Shih-Tzus, Susie and Billy.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, Women’s Fiction Writers Association and Romance Writers of America.
Author Links:
Purchase Links
Amazon – Barnes & Noble

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In this exciting new series we meet Hope. She is a fun character who does a food blog with tips and recipes for her followers to try out.  I really liked Hope right away and found her to be funny and a bit quirky. The excitement starts right away when Hope is at a book signing. An uninvited guest shows up by the name of Peaches. I really liked that name and thought it fit the character well. Poor Peaches is not very popular in  the town. Guess when you cut throat people at the job to get ahead, you tend to make enemies. I loved how the author quickly gave us a taste of how mean Peaches can be with her hostility towards others. She sure doesn't know how to make friends.

The town is all a buzz when a murder occurs and Hope discovers the body. Isn't it funny how gossip spreads so quickly? One of the things I liked most was how Hope quickly came to her sister's defense when she becomes a suspect. There is nothing better when  family surrounds you when you need them the most. Ethan who happens to be the chief of police is a real almost by the book person. He does look the other way at times as Hope tackles trying to find who the killer is. I wonder if Hope and Ethan are more than just good friends?

As the investigation heats up, Hope starts to ruffle some feathers. Some people aren't excited by her snooping. I can see why a few would get upset when Hope takes it upon herself to check alibis. I loved how the author slowly added suspects and had me furiously turning pages so I could see what Hope was up to next. The deeper she digs the more she puts herself in danger.  I really enjoyed the story and loved how the story flowed with ease. The ending is exciting as well as unexpected. It leaves readers anxious for more books from this gifted author. Be sure to check out the recipes at the end of the book.

I received a copy of this book from The Great Escape Virtual Blog Tour. The review is my own opinion.
TOUR PARTICIPANTS
March 19 – Bibliophile Reviews – AUTHOR INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY  
March 19 – Readsalot – SPOTLIGHT
March 19 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
March 20 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW
March 21 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
March 21 – Back Porchervations – REVIEW
March 22 – The Power of Words – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
March 22 – A Blue Million Books – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
March 22 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT
March 23 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW
March 23 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW
March 23 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
March 24 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
March 24 – Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers – SPOTLIGHT
March 25 – La libreria di Beppe – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
March 25 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
March 26 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
March 26 – Mysteries with Character – SPOTLIGHT
March 27 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW
March 27 – A Holland Reads – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
March 28 – Community Bookstop – AUTHOR INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY
March 28 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, &, Sissy, Too! – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
March 29 – A Cozy Experience – REVIEW, GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY
March 29 – Socrates’ Book Reviews – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
March 30 – Melina’s Book Blog – REVIEW
March 30 – Varietats – REVIEW, GUEST POST
March 31 – Moonlight Rendezvous – REVIEW, GUEST POST
March 31 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW
April 1 – The Montana Bookaholic – REVIEW
April 1 – Bookworm Cafe – REVIEW

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?
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Thursday, March 22, 2018

Storms in Serenity FB Banner copy

About the Book

0 Front Draft 2
Book Title: Storms in Serenity
Author: Fay Lamb
Release Date: February, 2018
Genre: Romance, Mystery
How can one man save the town he loves when he’s the reason for the destruction?
Serenity Key, Florida, has seen its share of hurricanes, but this time, one foul weather system is about to collide with another storm, and this one has nothing to do with atmospheric pressure.
David New has guarded his secrets for years, but when two brothers, John and Andy Ryan, arrive in town and he gets news that the daughter he’s never told anyone about has disappeared, possibly the victim of a heinous crime, and the lives of many of the town residents begin to unravel in the gale force consequences of Jake’s past, he has nowhere else to turn.
God is the only one Who can calm the storms, but can David and the good folks of Serenity Key survive until He does?
A tempest has been brewing for thirty years, with only one island town in its path.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

FLamb 16Fay Lamb writes emotionally charged stories with a Romans 8:28 attitude, reminding readers that God is always in the details. Fay donates 100% of her royalties to Christian charities.
Storms in Serenity is the first book in Fay’s Serenity Key series. Fay’s other series include, Amazing Grace and her novels, Stalking Willow, Better than Revenge, Everybody’s Broken, and Frozen Notes. The Ties that Bind Series includes Charisse,Libby, and Hope. Delilah, is coming soon.

Guest Post from Fay Lamb

ONCE UPON A STORM
I’m one of those people who love storms. I revel in the lightning that streaks across the sky, the rumble of thunder as it rolls over the air, and I dance to the eerie sound of the wind coming through a crack in the window. Storms don’t frighten me. I’m an East Coast Floridian. I’ve lived through many a tempest.
However, so that you won’t think me completely insane, I have also fled a few hurricanes. In our house, a Cat III storm is something to debate as we watch to see how low the millibars fall at the storm’s center. A Cat IV means gather the important documents, place them into plastic bags and tuck them into plastic tubs, batten down the hatches, and depending upon its projected proximity, hunker down or flee. A Cat V is a no-brainer. Run!
If only the storms in our lives had categories so that we know when to stand and face the winds of life or to debate the direction, or to decide when to flee. Sometimes, the storms of life come at us without warning, with no stirring up of the waters by our own hands. Other times, the storms can be abated by the stance we take, the decisions we make, and by failing to move out of harm’s way, perhaps in an opposite direction.
That’s what my first novel in The Serenity Key series is about: one man stirred up a storm many years prior. The destructive force of that storm amassed because he didn’t take a stand, he failed to make crucial decisions, and he choose to run from a situation that God would not allow him to outrun. Storms in Serenity is a modern-day retelling of the Biblical truths of the aftermath of David’s sin with Bathsheba and the destruction the storms of life that blew apart not only David’s family but also those he called friends.
Mostly, though, Storms in Serenity, is a novel that proves that when it comes to sin, truly, no man is an island.


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This book brought so many emotions to the surface for me. I wonder how many storms I've stirred up, but left without even glancing back? Without realizing it the choices we make can affect others. " Accept your responsibility . You can't lie your way out of it or pretend it never happened."  I think we all have tried to run from a mistake, only to find it returning in full force. I loved how the author uses her characters to explore what happens when someone hides secrets for years thinking it will never be revealed.  It reminds me of a spool of thread. It slowly unwinds as it is set free to let loose strands fall away from captivity. 

I must warn you that as you read this gripping story, tears will slowly fall down your cheeks. I could feel the heartbreak as infidelity was exposed and the realization of a life that was full of lies. In the midst of a storm, God is there to help. Each character plays a  pivotal role in the story that oozes with pain, secrets, and hope. The author does an excellent job of making each character come to life. I loved visiting the quaint little town and its inviting landscape. 

A secret from long ago will slowly start to have  a huge explosion of emotions in many lives in the story. Have you tried to hide a sin before? You may think no one will ever find out, but without warning, it rears it's ugly head and spews out hurt so powerful you wonder who will survive. I can remember being in a storm in my life. I felt alone and desperate, just like several characters in the book. I had to reach the bottom of the pit before I asked for help. Who will feel the intense pain and finally give in to God? Will jealousy and anger destroy love or can forgiveness soften a hardened heart?  I haven't mentioned any particular character because I loved each one for different reasons. The author writes with such depth I almost couldn't breathe at times. If you want to read a life changing book, this is the perfect one. As I finished the book, I sat quietly for awhile and soaked in the richness of the words and the true meaning of hope and forgiveness.

"Relationships can't endure if there isn't trust."

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


Blog Stops

A Greater Yes, March 14
Bigreadersite, March 14
Multifarious, March 16
Carpe Diem, March 23
Pursuing Stacie, March 24
Among the Reads, March 26

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Fay is giving away a grand prize of an Echo Spot!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/ca75

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The Hearts Appeal FB Banner copy

About the Book

Heart's Appeal
Book Title: The Heart’s Appeal
Author: Jennifer Delamere
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Genre: Inspirational Historical Romance
Strong-minded and independent, Julia Bernay has come to London to study medicine and become a doctor–a profession that has only just opened up to women. When she witnesses a serious accident, her quick action saves the life of an ambitious young barrister named Michael Stephenson. It’s only later that she learns he could be instrumental in destroying her dreams for the future.
Coming from a family that long ago lost its status, Michael Stephenson has achieved what many would have thought impossible. Hard work and an aptitude for the law have enabled him to regain the path to wealth and recognition. His latest case puts him in the middle of a debate over the future of a women’s medical school. He’s supposed to remain objective, but when the beguiling and determined Julia reappears with an unexpected entreaty, he begins to question what he’s made most important in his life. But Julia may be hiding her own motivations. As the two are tangled into spending more time together, will their own goals be too much to overcome?

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Book

Delamere_JenniferJennifer Delamere’s debut Victorian romance, An Heiress at Heart, was a 2013 RITA Award finalist in the inspirational category. Her follow-up novel, A Lady Most Lovely, received a starred review from Publishers Weekly and the Maggie Award for Excellence from Georgia Romance Writers. Jennifer earned a BA in English from McGill University in Montreal, where she became fluent in French and developed an abiding passion for winter sports. She’s been an editor of nonfiction and educational materials for nearly two decades, and lives in North Carolina with her husband.

Guest Post from Jennifer Delamere

Power couples?
Perhaps that’s not a concept that initially comes to mind when one thinks of Victorian England! And yet, they did exist. I love to include real people from history in my books, and in The Heart’s Appeal, Julia Bernay meets two inspiring real-life couples who will make a positive impact in her life.
In 1865, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson became the first woman to qualify as a physician in Britain. She did this through a legal loophole, but soon the laws were changed to open the medical field to all women. In 1874, Dr. Anderson co-founded the London School of Medicine for Women. She remained involved in the school in various capacities for the rest of her life, even as she continued to run her own busy practice. In The Heart’s Appeal, she becomes a mentor for Julia, opening doors for her education and introducing Julia to people who can help her succeed in medical school.
Dr. Anderson’s husband, James Anderson (Jamie), was the joint-owner of a successful shipping line and also served on the boards of several organizations (including a children’s hospital). He was a handsome man, very much in love with his wife, and fervent in supporting her choice of a career.
In a letter he wrote to her while they were engaged, Jamie explained his vision for their future—how they could keep their professional and private lives separate, yet still give each other plenty of love and support:
“I think we had better lay it down once for all as a rule that I am under no circumstances to bring people ‘favorably under your notice’ or ‘exert any influence’ or anything of the sort. It will give people a wrong idea of you unless I take a decided line in this matter — and as I mean to be if I can a successful man of business, neither interfering with your pursuits nor being interfered with by you (but having our confidences on all feasible subjects at off times of the day and week and mutually advising and fortifying one another), I must let people know unmistakably not to come bothering me about your public affairs. Will you think about this, dearest?”
Who couldn’t love a man like that?
Jamie Anderson’s outlook on life comes into play later on in The Heart’s Appeal,when he provides advice and aid to Michael Stephenson, the book’s hero, at a critical time.
Julia also has an inspiring encounter with Dr. Anderson’s sister, Millicent Fawcett. Millicent was married to a Member of Parliament and actively supported her husband’s career in many ways, including acting as a scribe for him since he was blind. She is most remembered for her role in the women’s suffrage movement. In fact, a statue of her will be placed in Parliament Square in London this summer. She was not a militant suffragette, but rather campaigned for suffrage under the banner “Law-Abiding Suffragists.”
Both couples raised families, too, and their children’s successes in life show they were raised to have the same energetic and “can-do” attitudes that their parents had.
Julia initially believes she must remain single to achieve her life’s goals. But soon she finds her heart drawn to successful barrister Michael Stephenson, who admires Julia’s intelligence and ambition. She learns that love and the freedom to pursue her dreams do not have to be mutually exclusive. A meeting of minds to spark a true romance? Yes, please! I hope readers will agree this can be the most satisfying of all.


Review.jpg

How many of you have seen an accident and hesitated to stop and render aide? As we step back in time to the late 1880s we find a young woman  who finds herself a witness to an accident. I loved how Julia did not hesitate to help the injured when disaster strikes. She is a very gifted and determined young woman. Her actions save the life of Michael Stephenson and another woman on that fateful day. I admire Julia for her quick thinking and confidence. Her desire to become a medical doctor is within her reach until something gets in her way. I always enjoy stories about women in a different time period who pursue a career that is frowned upon by some simply because they are female. Julia will have a battle to overcome and she will need strength and guidance to not let her dream be taken away.

Michael is thankful for Julia's abilities to save his life after an accident happens. He is a true gentleman and wishes to pay his debt of gratitude to Julia. I loved how Julia was able to get Michael to help her with something that would direct her to becoming a doctor. Michael has a prestigious  career as a barrister. He is ambitious and I really liked his energy to be the best at his job. It was very refreshing to read how Julia shared her faith with Michael. She reminds me of a gentle soul who cares for others without hesitation. What happens when Julia finds out that Michael could cause the school she wants attend to become a doctor be shut down? 

Family is very important to both Julia and Michael. When things start to heat  up with the upcoming court case, will Michael turn his back on Julia? I  could feel the anguish from both of them. Their feelings for each other have grown strong but something may tear them apart. The story is like a magical scene  of Lords and Ladies as they try to find their standing among the aristocrats. The author brings out a lovely look at the rich and famous during this time period in a way that captures the curiosity of many. I was stunned when the earl said to Julia "You're another of those females who simply will not understand your place. You ought to get back home to your family " I can assure you that did not sit well with Julia. 

The story is very captivating and written with historical details that make the characters so realistic. You don't want to miss this enchanting story of a very determined woman who wants to prove that women are qualified to do jobs that will help save lives and open doors for others to reach their destiny. The ending is one you don't want to miss as the court decides if the London School of Medicine for Women will remain open or close their doors forever. Sparks fly between Julia and Michael as they find themselves on opposing sides What will the verdict be? You can find out by grabbing a copy of this mesmerizing story.

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

Blog Stops

A Greater Yes, March 23
Among the Reads, March 23
Splashes of Joy, March 23
Mary Hake, March 25
Remembrancy, March 25
Genesis 5020, March 26
Carpe Diem, March 27
Baker Kella, March 29
Simple Harvest Reads, March 29 (Guest post from Mindy)
Pause for Tales, March 30
Cafinated Reads, March 30
Pursuing Stacie, March 30
Book by Book, March 31
Bigreadersite, March 31
Vicky Sluiter, April 2
Live Love Read, April 4

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a grand prize package of that includes All four March Bethany House historical releases (The Heart’s Appeal, plus A Most Noble Heir by Susan Anne Mason, A Chance at Forever by Melissa Jagears, In Places Hidden by Tracie Peterson) and a $20 Starbucks gift card!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/cacd

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