About the Book

Book: The Mechanic & the MD

Author: Linda Shenton Matchett

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: May 15, 2020

All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.

High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Ronald McCann, the most popular boy in school.

On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Ron’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.

Will the hazards of war make or break a romance between this unlikely couple?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. A volunteer docent and archivist for the Wright Museum of WWII, Linda is a former trustee for her local public library. She is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry. Linda has lived in historic places all her life, and is now located in central New Hampshire where her favorite activities include exploring historic sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

 

More from Linda

As a former human resources professional I am fascinated by the history of women in the workplace. The WWII is especially intriguing because not only did women enter the workforce, but they took jobs previously only held by men. And they proved themselves up to the task.

 

Because of my background, one of the first things I do when devising a story is to determine the protagonist’s job, and I love putting her into an unusual situation. My heroines have been mercantile owners, gold prospectors, spies, war correspondents, photographers, and pilots. In The Mechanic & The MD, Doris Strealer is…you guessed it…a mechanic.

 

I learned early on that I am NOT mechanically inclined. Newly married with not a lot of extra cash, my husband and I decided we would perform our own car maintenance. My husband grew up helping his dad, so he had lots of experience. How hard could it be?

 

For me, apparently very difficult. My first (and only) attempt to change the oil ended with my face and hands covered in black muck and a hole in the filter (don’t ask!). I determined I’m better at holding the flashlight or performing other assistant-type duties.

 

As it turns out, that wasn’t the case for Britain’s future Queen Elizabeth who became the first female member of the British royal family to become an active duty member of the Armed Forces when she joined the Auxiliary Territory Service. She underwent a six-week auto mechanic training course and learned how to deconstruct, repair, and rebuild engines, change tires, and drive every type of vehicle she worked on including jeeps, trucks, and ambulances.

 

When I learned of her service, I was intrigued, and the idea for The Mechanic & The MD was born.

 

I hope you enjoy Doris’s story, my effort to honor the men and women who served during this difficult period in history.

MY REVIEW 

There are many author’s that write about  WWII but without a doubt Linda is one of my favorites on this subject. She mixes fiction with historical facts to give readers a glimpse into a time period when war was breaking out and uncertainty was felt by many. I love how she focuses on women who serve their country in different roles. 

Doris is my kind of character with her no nonsense attitude and passion to do her job with excellence. Trying to get a job as a mechanic during war time is hard for women but with the Red Cross Motor Corps Doris  finds the perfect fit for her skills. It is sad that men had the mindset that  women couldn’t serve their country doing jobs like flying airplanes or being a mechanic. Doris proves everyone wrong with her ability to fix vehicles without many mishaps. I loved how she always trusted God and relied on Him to guide her path. 

Ron is a gifted surgeon who tries to save men in combat with his knowledge of medical procedures. The last person he expected to run into was an old high school acquaintance. What was Doris doing working as a mechanic where he is stationed  at?  Will she distract him from his job? There is definitely friction between the two and this makes for a fun banter between the  two. 

The story has some tense moments when the main characters get  caught in the middle of bombs going off and having to run for safety. There is much to be said for these two as they continue to focus on the jobs they have been assigned to perform.  I enjoyed following Doris in her adventure to serve her country and prove that women are capable of doing jobs that are not just for men. The story flows at a nice pace and the faith element is nicely weaved throughout the story. Will Doris and Ron be able to overcome their past and get a second chance at a relationship? Be ready for a few surprises along the way in this book that highlights  how women served during the war. 

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

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 10

Inklings and notions, March 11

For Him and My Family, March 12

Texas Book-aholic, March 13

deb’s Book Review, March 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 15

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 16

Connie’s History Classroom, March 17

Blossoms and Blessings, March 18 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 19

For the Love of Literature, March 20 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, March 20

CarpeDiem, March 21

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, March 22 (Author Interview)

Miriam Jacob, March 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 23

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Visa Gift Card and signed 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/1b8b6/the-mechanic-the-md-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

About the Book

Book: Blended Lives

Author: Melissa Wardwell

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: February 22, 2022

Wedding bells are ringing on the islands, but more than romance is in the air.

Seth Mikels experienced a fulfilling marriage with his wife until her sudden death left him alone to raise their two daughters. As they approach their teens, it’s obvious that they need a woman’s influence. He’s not looking for love, but he could use the partnership of a wife. Between his handyman business and playing Mr. Mom, time is fading fast.

Sarah Reid has spent the last four years caught in the middle of one island drama after another. Following the most recent fiasco, she hopes to find refuge on Sparrow Island with her two little boys. Climbing bills and a dwindling bank account leaves her no choice but to sell out and move to the mainland. Enter Seth’s handyman skills and an unexpected romance.

With Beth and Scott planning their own Merriweather wedding (complete with a Momzilla), will wedding bells ring out on Sparrow, too?

Read the next Sparrow Island novel in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Melissa Wardwell doesn’t mind alternating between the world of writing and the reality of being a mother, but she would rather sit with a good book or a good friend and a cup of coffee.

When she isn’t penning works of fiction, she is busy reviewing books for her blog, Back Porch Reads.

To see more from Melissa Wardwell, visit www.melissawardwell.com

 

More from Melissa

I want to thank you for taking the time to follow this tour. This book was written during one of the most difficult times in my life but, as Beth said, God has turned the mourning into gladness. We are never promised the next breath we breathe or the freedoms that we enjoy, but He does promise that will be with us through every change in our lives. 

 

Sarah and Seth’s stories are tragic and unimaginable for many. They have been brought to the lowest points in their lives but must continue to move on for their children.

 

Writing this story helped me work through some of my own struggles. Some areas of my life were burning to the ground and I found myself looking for answers as to how to pick up the pieces. Instead, God taught me some pretty important lessons.

I learned to be a woman who spoke clear and true. I learned to show the people around me how much I love them and appreciate them. I learned that only God could fix those broken pieces of our lives and stitch them back together. And lastly, I learned of the beauty of friendship and how important it is in our daily lives. Even though I am glad that journey is over, I will forever cherish the lessons.

 

I think Gram summed it up nicely for me though.

 

“When we blend our lives with others, whether in marriage or friendships, we open the door to carry each other’s burdens in life. God gives us certain friendships to help us through tough times to teach us how to be a shoulder for others.”

 

Fiction is a reflection of reality, so expect some  of the lessons I learned to be reflected in Blended Lives as Sarah and Seth figure out how to navigate the changes I put them through.

MY REVIEW 

The author has delivered  a book that shows how much she has grown in her writing and accomplished a spot on my best of 2022 book list. The characters in this series are like family to me and I couldn’t wait to see who the author would feature in her book. Before  you start reading, grab some tissues, a comfy blanket and your favorite beverage. Now that you have everything you need, let’s find out what is going on at Sparrow Island. 

Sarah is having a hard time trying  to manage raising two boys on her own, paying bills and overcoming  her past. It hasn’t been easy for her since chaos  seems to follow her. I liked how the author illustrates the ups and downs of being a single parent. My heart went out to Sarah as she struggles with making ends meet. Her boys are everything to her but you can tell she feels like she is letting them down. Keeping everything inside she is good at  pretending  that everything is fine. Oh I know what that is like. I have always been a loner. I’m pretty friendly and outgoing, but I don’t share much of my private life. Sarah has a tendency to not trust anyone which holds her back from finding friendship. I have learned over the last several years just how important friendship is. This story reminded me that when I opened up I was blessed with two very special friends who have become so precious to me. 

Seth is a single  parent raising two daughters. Losing his wife has been devastating not only for him but his daughters as well. I won’t go into all the details of how Sarah gets a job helping Seth out because that is a special part of the story. Two people each facing difficult situations form  an unlikely friendship  that  somehow seems to work. Oh it isn’t all fun and happiness for these two. Let’s take one jealous  opinionated young girl who is determined to make sure that Sarah is not welcomed in their home. Seth has his hands full trying to play referee between his girls, Sarah and her boys. Can we all just get along guys? 

The story also brings in Scott and Beth who I have adored since first meeting  them. They are still trying to set a date for their wedding  but a certain someone’s mother is wanting to take over the event.I like how Scott is willing to compromise to make Beth happy.   I did like how Scott and Beth both minister to Sarah and Seth. Their wisdom is faith based and both want to see these two happy. 

Thanks to the author for writing a story that reminded me how blessed I am to have special friends in my life. Sarah and Seth may have complications  in their life but through prayer and trust they discover a second chance at happiness. 

 “ All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28.

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

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 11

Texas Book-aholic, March 12

Simple Harvest Reads, March 12 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Inklings and notions, March 13

For Him and My Family, March 14

Library Lady’s Kids Lit, March 15

deb’s Book Review, March 16

Connect in Fiction, March 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 17

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 18

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 19

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 20 (Spotlight)

Blogging With Carol, March 20

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 21

Blossoms and Blessings, March 22

Aryn the Libraryan, March 23

lakesidelivingsite, March 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Melissa is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a 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/1b8b7/blended-lives-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

About the Book

Book: Roxie Applesauce

Author: Tonya L. Matthews

Genre: Faith-based Christian Fiction

Release date: August, 2021

God takes broken pieces

 and brings them together 

for something amazing

Marcella Ciscal enjoyed few good days. The reason she knew she could live another day, the way she stayed sane, the friend who never left her side was Roxie Applesauce.

Homeless and beaten, Marcella awakens to the care of Haleya Kage who’s going through a difficult season—a demanding career, two teens, and her husband Thomas’s business a casualty of the 2009 economic downturn. Yet, with life unstable and the future unknown, it’s the unpredictable that propels His greater plan.

In a story of reconciliation, love, and legacy, we are reminded that life’s not always perfect or predictable, but God can make all things beautiful – in His time.

Life is full of scenes: some short, long, seemingly insignificant—others life-changing. Woven together, these scenes reveal a person’s heart. His or her life-story shared by a heart blessed, unforgettable. – the author.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Tonya grew up on a family farm in Riverside, Kentucky. Her father recognized early on that hoeing tobacco and running hogs weren’t in her skill set. He opted to send her to college. Graduating from Western Kentucky University with honors, Tonya went on to support the business community for two decades as an executive for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce where she served a primary role in the organization’s multiple national honors.

Tonya has found writing to be a healthy escape and effective therapy in tough seasons throughout her life. Tonya began writing Treasure atop the Mountain 15 years ago when she and her husband were trying to start their family and encountered multiple disappointments. Ultimately, they signed up to be foster parents and adopted.

Tonya’s been married to Todd Matthews for 25 years. They have two grown daughters. In August 2019, she published Treasure atop the Mountain—a fiction novel based on real-life emotions that can be related to by many. Tonya’s second novel in the TREASURE series, Roxie Applesauce, released in August 2021. She’s currently writing the series’ third book, Get Will. Additionally, in 2022, she will debut the first two books in her children’s book series.

 

More from Tonya

THE STORY behind the story—Tonya L. Matthews

As many of you know, Todd and I adopted our two girls from foster care. I remember hugging Haley one night after a tough day (she was a handful…well, still is) with tears in my eyes. Tears of sadness in my heart for what had brought us both together and tears of hope that we could help each other move forward. Todd and I had experienced multiple failures at trying to have a baby, and she’d experienced failure after failure of what is best for a little girl who needs a stable home-life. Roxie Applesauce, published and release this month, is dedicated to her. Though little has gone as we’d planned, God was and is still in control. I often say, ‘God had her before we did; he’s still got her!’

Life’s road isn’t always fair, but along the way there are those undeniable, unexplainable occurrences where without question the only answer is that it had to be God. That’s the message of hope I needed when I wrote Roxie Applesauce (and still need today.)

I began writing as an outlet for my emotions years ago as nothing seemed to work. I sat down and started writing, not knowing that I could write a novel and not set on it as the end goal. My goal was to find something that would take my thoughts away from the never-ending cycle of worry, anger and confusion over why there was no baby when for so many it just happened so simply.

I enjoyed reading fiction with an inspiring message. I remember when I finished a good book, I’d hold it for a minute after I closed it and even sometimes say out loud, “Wow, that was good!” I’d think about it the next day and the characters in the book were more like people that I knew or wished I knew.

After I read several that didn’t deliver, and inspired by those that did, I thought…I’ll just write what I like to read. So, I sat down and started typing and then I just never quit on the book. In the background of a busy, busy life, it was always there. Then when I walked away from the Chamber to be a better mom to my teen girls, I yet again, needed an outlet for all the ‘I am not equipped to raise these two!’ emotions that followed. Slowly, keeping my family as priority for really the first time ever, I worked toward the publication of Treasure atop the Mountain. Since its release, I can say the greatest joy has been the people that I’ve met! We all struggle. The emotions are the same, though the circumstances may be different. We need to know that we are not alone. We need to know that God’s plan is at work, even through the difficult times. If you haven’t had a chance to read Treasure atop the Mountain yet—first in the series, I hope someone passes it along to you as part of God’s plan as the existence of these books is beyond me!

If you didn’t know, my daughters are named Haley and Aleya. Not biological sisters. Born to two birth mothers who don’t know each other. One named her daughter HALEY and the other named her daughter ALEYA. If you put their names together you have HALEYA. Put you hand over the A on the end and it’s Haley. Put your hand over the H and you have Aleya. I have to remind myself on the toughest of days as a mother of two now adult-age girls in this world full of lies and heartache that God does know what he’s doing, and I know that God’s hand is at work! So, I write the third novel in the series, Get Will, yet again, as a healthy escape for my mind that is often unrelenting when so much is out of our control.

MY REVIEW 

I remember reading the first book from this series and thinking how impressed I was with the writing. The story continues in this book with familiar characters. Even though you could probably read it as a stand alone, I would recommend reading the first one to see how the author develops her characters. This one is just as emotional as the first one but was a little hard for me to follow at first. There are quite a few characters which made it difficult. 

Following Marcella’s story was difficult because of the cruelty she endured. The abuse is both emotional and physical. Even though she had physical scars, the emotional ones are the deepest and hurt the most. To think that you aren’t loved or wanted sends you to a place where darkness surrounds you. Marcella could be anyone out there right now struggling with addiction, homelessness or abuse. Through the author’s words we find a woman who is determined to survive even though at times it seems hopeless. 

Haleya is finding  life to be difficult with a husband who seems unhappy and two children who are moody and distant at times. Her life is complicated with her family spinning  out of control. It was interesting to see how the author explores a family that seems dysfunctional but really at the heart of it is lack of communication. If only we could slow down , take a deep breath and see what God has given us we may understand how blessed we are. For Haleya I think her attitude changes when she goes back to being a nurse who cares for her patients. Isn’t  it funny how  one decision can change everything in our life. 

The connection between two people in the story is emotional and heartbreaking at the  same time. I love how the author  brings Marcella to a place where hope and love is found. It is hard to explain how powerful the ending is. I broke down in tears because Marcella is someone that was broken but God was there to wipe her tears away and bring her peace. 

I kept thinking of  how to end my review but all I could come up with is , “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world does. Do not let your hearts be troubled and don’t be afraid.”  John 14:27.

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 9

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 10 (Author Interview)

Miriam Jacob, March 10

Texas Book-aholic, March 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 12

For Him and My Family, March 13

Inklings and notions, March 14

deb’s Book Review, March 15

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 16

Older & Smarter?, March 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 18

Pause for Tales, March 18

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 19

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 21

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 22

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tonya is giving away the grand prize of 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/1b8b4/roxie-applesauce-celebration-tour-giveaway