About the Book

Book: When Your Voice Became Mine

Author: Celeste N. Bowers

Genre: Non-Fiction

Release Date: November 2019

For all those who have lost hope and purpose, and for all those who hurt deep inside from loss, author Celeste Bowers wishes she could spare you from pain, just as she hoped she could shield her own ten-year-old daughter, Christina, from the storms.

Although she can’t protect you from life’s tragedies, Celeste can tell you this—and she is proof of this—no matter how hard you fall or how much you ache, God will lift you up with new purpose. He will carry you out of the weeping waves and safely to shore.

Celeste has been sending “packages” to heaven since her daughter passed away on May 29, 2005. What she never fathomed were the gifts sent back to deeply define her.

In a moment, Christina’s voice became hers. In that same moment, she knew “there is a mailbox in heaven.”

Click here for your copy.

About the Author

Celeste Bowers has been blessed with gifts of writing, teaching, coaching, making people laugh, and being a mom. These gifts held crucial roles when her daughter, Christina, was diagnosed with cancer. Every gift Celeste received from God is tied together in her words. Packages bundled in love and filled with life lessons are sent to heaven in her first book, If There’s a Mailbox in Heaven. Christina’s testimony and Celeste’s newfound purpose are now joined together in When Your Voice Became Mine.

More from Celeste

Time is such a fragile commodity. When someone we love passes away,

we want the whole world to stop moving and acknowledge what truly

matters at that moment—but we also want time to fly so we don’t have

to endure another day without our loved ones. What helped me move

gently through time was nothing that came about by my own means. Instead, I have trusted God wholeheartedly to navigate my path.

Time does not exist in heaven. Since heaven is our real home, I

will not allow time to consume me here on earth; instead, I choose

to use my precious time wisely. I have been sending “packages” to heaven—letters that I write

to my ten-year-old daughter Christina—since she passed away on May 29, 2005. Each one is

tied with my hopes, wishes, and newfound purpose. What I never

fathomed were the gifts from above that would be sent back to me.

In a moment, Christina’s voice became mine. In that same moment,

I knew there is a mailbox in heaven.

REVIEW

This is a loving tribute to the author’s daughter who passed away at a tender age from cancer. I can’t say I enjoyed reading the book because the subject is to difficult for me. The author shares her daughter’s unwavering faith throughout her young life.  The letters the author writes to her daughter are from the depths of pain and healing. I would love to have met Christina as she giggled and played with her friends. No one knew that one day this young girl would face a battle that was hard to watch, yet showed faith and witnessed to many.

Christina is an example of praising God through the storm. Her outlook on life was precious and even during chemo she was happy to sing and bring a smile to others. The book is filled with the many visitor’s that came to visit Christina while she was in the hospital. One of the things that really moved me was the way Christina was able to share her faith with others and make an impact on their lives. The pictures were nice to see of the family and how much Christina embraced life. 

The author shares her own struggles as she watched her daughter go through heart wrenching treatments and restless nights. Throughout the book you can sense Christina smiling as her mother shares her story  with the world. The book is a look at a young child full of life who had cancer and continues to have her story of faith and God’s love  shared with others.  

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

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 10

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, January 11

Artistic Nobody, January 12 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, January 13

Book Love, January 14 (Guest Review from Lucy Reynolds)

Through the Fire Blogs, January 15 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, January 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 17

Texas Book-aholic, January 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 19

A Baker’s Perspective, January 20 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, January 21

janicesbookreviews, January 22

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 23 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Celeste is giving away the grand prize package  of a signed copy of each of her books, along with a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f469/when-your-voice-became-mine-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book:  A Promise Child

Author: Kathryn Spurgeon

Genre: Inspirational historic fiction

Release Date: September 10, 2017

She can’t survive the ‘30s alone…

Sibyl Trimble does everything she can to keep her family together. Before falling in love with a handsome, penniless hobo, she lived a life of new cars, speakeasies dances, and fancy cloche hats.

Then the Great Depression hits Oklahoma. The wind blows topsoil away, hundreds of jobless men hang around town, and the economy falls apart. Even Fremont, her strong, stable husband, grows discouraged and considers leaving as they struggle to put food on the table.

When disaster strikes again, will Sibyl and Fremont move on to California or try to survive in Oklahoma? Neither option sounds promising.

Click here to get your copy

About the Author

Kathryn Spurgeon, an award-winning author and recipient of a 2018 Illumination Book Award, has published over a hundred stories, articles, and poems. She grew up on an Oklahoma farm before moving to South Korea, where she adopted two children. She and her husband, Bill, hold weekly studies in their home for international college students. They have six children and twelve grandchildren.

More from Kathryn

Researching and writing about the 1930s has been a blast, and although it was the economically worst decade of the last century, faith, love, and life went on. It has been fun to glimpse into that historical time and find amazing and uplifting stories.

Sibyl Trimble, my grandmother and the ever up-and-down, emotional but brilliant lady, did her best to create a great family environment. Seeking God, she also studied, taught, and shared about Christ in the midst of heartaches. Based on a true story, I hope this tale will inspire, uplift, and bring a touch of nostalgia to your day.

The strength and courage Sibyl revealed can encourage us all and I am honored to share her tale with you.

The entire time I read this book I kept thinking of my granddad. He lived in Oklahoma and shared many stories of hard times he endured. I remember being on his farm one year when a dust storm came. We ran to the cellar and listened as the wind howled and dust scattered everywhere.  I admire the author and her story that gave me fond memories of a man who instilled faith and endurance in me. 

This book is based on the author’s grandmother and I fell in love with the story right away. Oh how I wanted to wrap my arms around Sibyl and tell her she was doing a great job. The struggles she and her husband faced broke my heart. Fremont is a man who loves God, is a hard worker and strives to provide for his family everyday. It was hard to read how they struggled to find food and pay rent. There were times when I weeped as Sibyl and Fremont desperately tried to keep food on the table for their children. 

Sibyl’s mom was a very bitter person who has endured the disgrace of her husband abandoning her and his kids. I can understand how her heart was hurt and how she wanted to make the father of her children support them. I don’t have any good things to say about Sibyl’s father. He was selfish, arrogant, and turned his back on his family. He acted like he knew the Word, but really he twisted scriptures to justify what he did. In the story you will find out what kind of man he really is. 

The town turns almost into a ghost town as jobs become scarce and food is almost non existent. After reading the book, I understand more of why my mother hoarded things. As a child she did without as she and my grandmother lived with her granddad who was my great granddad. They went through hard times but my grandmother always had faith. There are times in the story where Sibyl and Fremont want to give up. They question why God allows bad things to happen to them. A tragedy strikes that broke my heart. Through that tragedy God used it to bring a lost soul back to him. 

I loved the story even though at times it was hard to read. The author does an excellent job of giving readers a look at what it was during The Depression. Families struggled, hearts were broken and anger and bitterness showed up in some like one of Sibyl’s sisters. The faith element in the story is excellent and gives hope to those who need it. I am glad that the author shared this story and reminded us that God is always there. I found strength and perseverance a very important part of this story. There is always hope if we remember to trust God. 

“Faith should be as easy as walking across the room.”

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

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 16

For Him and My Family, January 17

Reflections From My Bookshelves, January 18

Inklings and notions, January 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 19

A Reader’s Brain, January 20

Christian Bookaholic, January 21

Betti Mace, January 22

For The Love of Books, January 22

Life of Literature, January 23

deb’s Book Review, January 23

Older & Smarter?, January 24

For the Love of Literature, January 25

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, January 26

Bigreadersite, January 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 28

Emily Yager, January 28

Pause for Tales, January 29

*No Giveaway for this Celebration Tour

About the Book

Book: The Thief of Lanwyn Manor

Author: Sarah E. Ladd

Genre: Regency Romance

Release Date: January 7, 2020

In this sweet Regency romance, Julia knows Matthew Blake, copper mine owner and very eligible bachelor, is the gentleman she should set her eyes upon. But why can’t she steal her gaze away from his younger brother, Isaac?

Cornwall, England 1818—Julia Twethewey needs a diversion to mend her broken heart, so when her cousin invites her to Lanwyn Manor, Julia eagerly accepts. Lanwyn Manor is at the heart of Cornwall’s mining industry, and as a guest Julia is swept into its intricate world. It’s not long, though, before she realizes something dark lurks in the home’s ancient halls.

As a respected mine owner’s younger son, Isaac Blake is determined to keep his late father’s legacy alive through the family business, despite his brother’s careless attitude. In order to save their livelihood—and the livelihood of those around them—the brothers approach the master of Lanwyn Manor with plans to bolster the floundering local industry. Isaac can’t deny his attraction to the man’s charming niece, but his brother has made his intentions to court the lovely guest clear. And Isaac knows his place.

When tragedy strikes, mysteries arise, and items go missing, Julia and Isaac find they are pulled together in a swirl of strange circumstances, but despite their own best efforts to bow to social expectations, their hearts aren’t so keen to surrender.

Click here to buy your copy.

About the Author

Sarah E. Ladd received the 2011 Genesis Award in historical romance for The Heiress of Winterwood. She is a graduate of Ball State University and has more than ten years of marketing experience. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing family and spunky golden retriever. Visit her online at SarahLadd.com; Facebook: SarahLaddAuthor; Twitter: @SarahLaddAuthor.

Read an Excerpt

Click here to read an excerpt from the book.

I don't usually talk much about book covers especially in reviews. I am making an exception for this one. The cover is breathtaking and immediately drew me to the book.  It fits right with the story and the time period. The opening of the book will have many readers on the edge of their seat. Good grief ,I uttered as I began the story. This poor woman who has come to help out her family is staring down the barrel of a gun. The author does an excellent job of making the story intriguing as we are introduced to the stunning Julia. Her presence will stir up a mystery and perhaps grab someone's heart.

I loved learning about the mines and how hard it is to endure the dangers as they work. I would get anxious and have to run out at the first little rumble I heard.  Isaac and Mathew may be brothers but they are nothing alike. Matthew seemed calculated and kinda shady. I did not trust his interest in Julia at all.  Isaac is very caring and his intentions are honest.  It is a sure sign that something is not right when Matthew pursues Julia and wants to marry her quickly. I smell a rat somewhere and I hope Julia is not fooled by dashing good looks and words that mean nothing.

The more I got into the book, the better the story became. The author weaves a tale of mystery that had me reading as fast as I could. Yes there are characters that are not trustworthy in the story and it causes danger for several.  Decisions will be made in the story that will cause heartache and perhaps happiness.  I can't give anything away so let me leave you with this. Find a comfortable place, grab a blanket and get ready to transport back to 1818 England where trust, danger and a mystery will keep you glued to the book. This is a must read for all Regency fiction fans. If you aren't a fan of this type of story you will be after reading this book.

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

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 13

Genesis 5020, January 13

A Baker’s Perspective, January 13

For Him and My Family, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14

Inklings and notions, January 14

Bigreadersite, January 15

For the Love of Literature, January 15

Texas Book-aholic, January 15

Through the Fire Blogs, January 16

Pause for Tales, January 16

Wishful Endings, January 16

deb’s Book Review, January 16

Betti Mace, January 17

KarenSueHadley, January 17

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, January 17

Robin’s Nest, January 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 18

The Christian Fiction Girl, January 19

Remembrancy, January 19

Books, Life, and Christ, January 19

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, January 20

My Devotional Thoughts, January 20

Hallie Reads, January 20

Blogging With Carol, January 20

Kat’s Corner Books, January 21

Life of Literature, January 21

Danielle Lozada, January 21

She Lives to Read, January 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 22

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 22

By The Book, January 23

Blossoms and Blessings, January 23

SPLASHES of Joy, January 23

My Precious Bits and Musings, January 24

Mary Hake, January 24

Back Porch Reads, January 24

Daysong Reflections, January 24

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 25

Mamma Loves Books, January 25

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 25

Hookmeinabook, January 26

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, January 26

Simple Harvest Reads, January 26 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

*No Giveaway for this Celebration Tour

About the Book

Book:  Breaking Point

Author: Marji Laine

Genre: Psychological suspense, romance

Release Date: September, 2019

The mere rumor of treasure can change lives, destroy friendships… even kill?

Alynne’s Stone’s planned out and predictable life ended when she hurried to her mother’s side to support her during a family tragedy. So why would she now have a target on her back? Her father’s death had nothing to do with her, but suddenly she’s having these “accidents”? How can she stay and support her mom when someone is intent on eliminating her?

Police Lieutenant Jason Danvers believes her father was murdered. How, he can’t fathom, but he also can’t ignore the details that don’t add up. Attempts on Alynne’s life must be somehow connected. Still dealing with the pain of his own wife’s death, he can’t allow an innocent woman to die on his watch. Especially one as scintillating as Alynne Stone.

Even in a small town, things—and people—aren’t always what they appear to be.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Marji Laine has completed seventeen years of homeschooling, but with her publishing business, her various volunteer activities, and her large family, she will likely never live a life of leisure. And that suits her just fine! When she does find spare time, she enjoys watching sports and Hallmark movies and mysteries, loves having game night with her family and friends, and enjoys talking “shop” with other authors. You can usually find her in her favorite recliner, plucking away at her keyboard with her rescue fur-babies at her feet or at www.MarjiLaine.com.

More from Marji

It Started with a Dream

You know how just before you actually wake up, you sometimes have dreams that stay with you? I’ve recently chatted with a lady who had a dream about her husband and woke up mad at the man without realizing that her discontent was from a dream. Dreams are powerful, amplified thoughts that can move us to unexpected emotions and actions.

Such was the case with me. My latest release, BREAKING POINT, actually stemmed from a dream.

I had a scene in my sleep of a woman trapped on the roof of a beautiful, three-story, Victorian house, having crept out the window of one of the second floor gables. A storm whirled around her, slapping her brunette hair across her eyes and into her mouth. She was afraid of something.

Then I saw the something… or rather the someone. A hand raised above the eave of the roof. A man’s gravelly voice, “I know you’re up here.”

Lightning flashed revealing the top of his head as he climbed onto the window sill from which she had escaped. His left hand gripped the eave of the roof, likely holding onto the gingerbread décor that laced the edging.

The woman had nowhere to go, no other place to hide. Thunder jarred the air and rumbled across the ground. The woman stiffened, but not from the explosive sound.

The man’s eyes appeared over the rooftop. “There you are.”

This was it. She had no hope of survival. After all she’d done to avoid this moment.

He leaned to his left to pull his right hand over the edge of the roof. A murderous glint filled his dark eyes as a smile stretched his lips. The barrel of a gun appeared, cresting the roof.

Then a loud crack split the night. Not thunder. The man’s smile disappeared as his mouth fell open and his eyes widened. He dropped the gun and grabbed at the surface of the shingles with both hands.

The woman had climbed up the side of the gable up to the top of it. The surface didn’t offer a finger grip anywhere. The gingerbread must have broken, giving the man no handhold.

With a prolonged yell, the man’s face and hands disappeared from view. A close lightning strike and the thunderous result covered the sound of the man hitting the ground below.

This scene, from a dream, was where the story BREAKING POINT began. It was actually the very first novel I ever completed. However, after no less than five total rewrites where I changed every aspect of the story except the hero, heroine, and the setting – the beautiful Victorian house – that scene didn’t make it to the book at all. Maybe it will find itself in a new story someday!

This book has been such an intriguing read. I think for this review I won't go into much detail about characters and events. I will say that it is a story that captivated me from the beginning. The author delivers a story filled with danger that never stops till the end. It is incredible how the story starts with a death that brings someone home to help a family member which then starts a chain of events.  The constant death threats are unnerving and I think I held my breath a few times.

I thought I had the story all figured out, but I was so wrong. The author does an incredible job of leading readers on a chase to find the killer or killers and solve a mystery that was centuries old. There are a few characters in the story that I detested for obvious reasons. I loved how the author gives hints along the way, but just as you think you have solved the case, a twist is thrown in. 

I loved the faith element in the story and this saying in the book was something I needed to read; "There's something so peaceful being with other women who share the same Spirit and speak the same language of God's love." One character will find their way back to God and understand the meaning of unconditional love.  There is deceit, secrets, jealousy and hate that weaves through the story to make it a must read.  The best part for me was when the story started to unravel deep rooted anger and greed that make people do unthinkable things to achieve their goal.  Learning to trust and heal family relationships is very important to this story. Letting yourself get so caught up in work to make yourself feel worthy will almost destroy someone as they allow lies to control them. It is a fast paced action packed story that delivers a great message of how important family and friends are.

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 12

Betti Mace, January 13

Texas Book-aholic, January 14

Reading Is My SuperPower, January 15

janicesbookreviews, January 16

Inklings and notions, January 17

For the Love of Literature, January 18

For Him and My Family, January 19

deb’s Book Review, January 20

Artistic Nobody, January 21 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, January 22

Blogging With Carol , January 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marji is giving away the grand prize package of a Texas mug, Bluebonnet seeds, Bluebonnet room spray, and some specialty chocolate!!

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/f46a/breaking-point-celebration-tour-giveaway