Friday, March 24, 2023

About the Book

Book: The Last Chance Cowboy

Author: Jody Hedlund

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: February 14, 2023

With danger drawing ever closer, their only hope of saving their futures lies in each other.

As a midwife, Catherine Remington is successful in bringing new life into the world, but she’s failed one too many times in finding true love. When she’s accused of a murder she didn’t commit, she’s forced to flee to Colorado to honor a patient’s dying wish by delivering a newborn infant to his father.

The repentant prodigal Dylan McQuaid is finally back in Fairplay. As sheriff, he’s doing his best to prove to the town he’s a changed man and worthy of their trust. When a woman shows up with an infant son he didn’t know he had, Dylan is left with only complicated choices on what to do next.

Having grown attached to Dylan’s son, Catherine doesn’t want to part ways with the infant, but what she doesn’t bargain for is how easily she’ll fall for the charming sheriff, or how quickly the past will catch up with her and put their love and lives in danger.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Jody Hedlund (www.jodyhedlund.com) is the bestselling author of over 30 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats.

More from Jody

What drew you to Colorado as a setting for your latest historical romance series?

When I was a child, I lived up in the high country in Granby in Middle Park. Then my husband and I lived in Denver for a few years while he went to grad school. So in some ways, Colorado feels like home.

I was also drawn to writing about Colorado because of the ruggedness of the setting, especially in the 1800’s. It was difficult for those first settlers to survive in such a harsh and unforgiving place, especially without all the modern conveniences we’re used to.

Not only that, but I’m truly astounded by the beauty and majesty of the West. There’s nothing quite as stunning as the Rocky Mountains!

Why do you think readers always enjoy cowboy heroes?

I actually asked that question of readers and here are a couple of answers I received:

One reader said: I like their endurance and steadfastness. Their innate ability to deal with animals and athleticism to work in an outdoor environment that is many times unforgiving.

Another reader said: Cowboys protect each other, provide for their animals, help neighbors, and celebrate life. No matter how hard it is. They find happiness in the simple things of life. Determination, grit, are words to describe them. And love … oh yes how fiercely they love and protect their one and only.

I think the love of cowboys has to do with their reputation for their integrity and hard work ethic. Of course it doesn’t hurt that we think of most cowboys as hunks. Right

Are readers always promised a “happily ever after” in your novels? Why or why not?

As an avid reader of romance myself, I not only expect a HEA, it’s what I love! Since, I’m writing the books I would love to read, I wouldn’t ever be able to write anything but a HEA! I’m of the opinion that there are too many bittersweet and mediocre endings in real life. So with fiction, I want a book to inspire me and give me courage that I can be a better person. I hope readers feel the same with my novels!

When did you first begin writing stories?

I’m pretty sure I was born with a pen in one hand and a notebook in the other. Since my earliest days, I loved making up stories and writing them down. The passion followed me into adulthood. And after many twists and turns along the path, I’ve finally been able to channel that passion into a full time writing career.

What was the name of your first book?

The Preacher’s Bride was my first published book.

How did you get into the Christian/historical fiction genre?

I love reading historicals, so naturally that’s what I’m drawn to write. I’m fascinated with all of the things that happen in other times and places that seem so foreign to us now. I really appreciate when historical facts are woven into books seamlessly so that I’m learning but don’t really realize I am. And I hope that I can do that in my books too.

Who was your favorite author when you were younger?

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery was one of my favorites as a child because it played a role in developing my creativity as a writer. (Followed closely by A Little Princessand Little Women because they also featured strong, creative girls.)

How would you describe your writing style in three words?

Sweet, clean, with sizzle

How many books have you published so far?

Over 40

Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

When I’m in first draft mode, I give myself a daily word count six days a week, and then I make myself write until I hit my goal even if that means I have to write all day and into the evening (most days that doesn’t happen though, thankfully). I’m pretty tough on myself about making my daily goals!

What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

I believe every writer should set realistic goals for whatever life season they’re in. For example, when my kids were younger and I was in the thick of homeschooling, I set my daily word count goal at 500 words a day. That was realistic for me at that stage. I made myself write that amount every day so that I built good habits of self-discipline and focus.

What do you snack on or drink while writing?

Coffee all the way! Black and lots of it!

How do you overcome writer’s block? Because of my stringent daily word count goal (and not allowing myself to veer from it), I push through writer’s block by simply writing whatever comes to mind, even if it’s not particularly inspiring.

Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

I start my writing day by re-reading a portion of what I wrote the previous day. I edit that lightly before moving on. But mostly I wait until the end to turn on my internal editor.

What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

It’s normal and natural to get excited about finishing a first book. But I’ve seen many writers eager to publish (and even rush into publishing) that first book. It’s almost always wise to wait to seek publication (or indie publish) until you have completed several books, taken classes, read writing craft books, and had critique partners.

How can readers connect with you?

To stay up to date, I invite readers to join my Facebook Reader Room where I post the most relevant book news and interact with readers. Or readers can visit my website at jodyhedlund.com

MY REVIEW

The story is a continuation in a series so it may be best to read the others first if you want to catch up with what has happened. I didn’t feel lost reading this book out of order though. It is obvious that Dylan has been not such a kind man in the past. We discover in this story that he has changed and now is the sheriff. He has put all the past behind him and now upholds the law. He is in for a big surprise when his past meets him face to face.

Catherine is a midwife who is very compassionate about helping women give birth. She had no idea that the child she just delivered would change her life. Without going into much detail, she honor’s the baby’s mother’s last wish. Finding the baby’s father was also a way to escape from town when she witnesses a horrible crime. As she travels to Colorado she hopes she can keep the baby and herself safe.

The initial meeting between Catherine, Dylan and his son are bittersweet. She has done what was requested of her, but how can she leave this precious child she has fallen in love with? Dylan seems to accept the baby and wants to do the right thing. I don’t understand why Catherine didn’t figure out that Dylan thought she was a woman he had been with back in the day.

I did like how protective Dylan was with his son and Catherine. He takes his new family in and without question makes things right. As the wedding is going on, didn’t Catherine wonder why he was marrying her, a complete stranger? I had trouble with this part and knew that somehow this secret would come out. There are a few times in the story where I thought the author focused on the attraction between Dylan and Catherine a little too much. The author describes Dylan’s thoughts about his wife that were a bit uncomfortable for me. I will leave that part for readers to decide on their own.

The ending was nice and there is a clear faith element in the story that illustrates forgiveness, trust, family and love. The story does reunite a family where a bond is formed. They look out for each other and I liked that even though rumors were unkind towards Catherine, her new family stood beside her. One thing to note was how Dylan reacted when he found out that Catherine had deceived him. It is a good lesson on forgiving and loving unconditionally.

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

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, March 25

For Him and My Family, March 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 27

Karen Baney Reviews, March 27

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 28 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 28

Connie’s History Classroom, March 29

Remembrancy, March 30

Holly’s Book Corner, March 30

By the Book, March 31

Back Porch Reads, March 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 1

Mary Hake, April 1

She Lives to Read, April 2

Book Looks by Lisa, April 2

Daysong Reflections, April 3

Cover Lover Book Review, April 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 4

EmpowerMoms, April 4

Blogging With Carol, April 5

SusanLovesBooks, April 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 6

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, April 6

Splashes of Joy, April 7

Vicky Sluiter, April 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jody is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of all five books in the COLORADO COWBOYS series: A Cowboy for Keeps, The Heart of a Cowboy, To Tame a Cowboy, Falling for the Cowgirl, and The Last Chance Cowboy!!

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/24ff8/the-last-chance-cowboy-celebration-tour-giveaway

Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward Epic Book Launch

About the Author

Book: Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward

Authors: Mark Henderson and Michael Snuffer

Genre: Non-fiction; Interpersonal Relations; Religion

Release date: April 13, 2023

WHY AM I SO MISUNDERSTOOD? I am only trying to do what is right! Of course, I forgive, but I can’t seem to get past the pain. God seems distant. Does he even care about me?

Do any of these questions hit close to home? It may surprise you that the underlying cause is often hidden unforgiveness. Our closest relationships, emotional health, and perhaps even our faith seem to be crumbling around us, but most of us have no idea that forgiveness is the way forward. If we are honest, we don’t even know what forgiveness is. We may have a vague idea that it has something to do with “forgetting” or “letting go” but would be hard-pressed to come up with a working definition. Worse yet, we have no idea how to practice forgiveness in a way that brings lasting relief from the hurt we carry. Most of us are not trying to hang on to the pain, but freedom is elusive.

Freedom from your pain is within reach! Forgiveness is not a vague, esoteric concept, nor is it a lofty, out-of-reach ideal. Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward digs into the biblical definition of forgiveness, tells real stories of real people who have found healing, clears up some huge misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, and teaches us how topractice forgiveness. If we do not address the wounds of our past, they will shape our future. God has provided a powerful tool to help us find freedom—forgiveness is the surprising way forward!

BOOK EXERPT

One which—for a long time—I did not understand. Here is the statement: “This is how my

heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your

heart” (Matthew 18:35, NIV).

Whoa! Seriously? What does that mean? Because this guy “was handed over to the jailers

to be tortured!” The New American Standard Bible translation sounds even worse. It says

the servant was “handed over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed

him.”

Beatings and torture were not an unusual part of the first century prison

experience. The New Testament records how jailers often beat and tortured people

who were arrested.

Missed Any Excerpts, Go Here

***INSERT LINKS HERE***

Mark Henderson received a Masters of Pastoral Counseling, was a licensed counselor, and served as a pastor of counseling for twenty years.

In Memory of Mark Henderson

Mark David Henderson, co-author of this book, passed away from cancer as this book was being finalized. Mark was a loving husband, father, and friend. He touched lives all over the world through his counseling ministry and often said he had a front row seat to God’s miracles. He always made sure the individual knew it was God’s healing, and Mark was simply the servant. His desire was to take what he learned and share it with others, which is the reason for this book.

Michael Snuffer has ministered as a counselor for more than ten years. Mark and Mike founded Equip2CounselTM, a ministry dedicated to providing simple yet powerful counseling tools globally to ministers.

Thursday, March 23, 2023

About the Book

Book: Iron

Author: Madisyn Carlin

Genre: Christian Fantasy/Fairytale Retelling

Release date: September 30, 2022

Enforcing justice comes with a price.

Detective Redwyn “Red” Deathan will stop at nothing to uncover those behind the ruthless kidnappings of multiple children. But things are not as they seem, and Red’s efforts are thwarted at every turn. With each discovery the danger grows, putting Red and the lives of those she cares about at risk. Can she reveal the mastermind’s identity before she herself becomes a target?

IRON is a Christian New Adult, Fantasy Fairytale Retelling

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Madisyn Carlin is a Christian, homeschool graduate, blogger, voracious bookdragon, and author. When not spending time with her family or trekking through the mountains, she weaves tales of redemption, faith, and action.

Want to connect? https://linktr.ee/madisyncarlin

More from Madisyn

There are many original Cinderella stories, from all cultures and languages. Perhaps the two most common tales, however, are Frenchman Charles Perrault’s (also called Cendrillon) and the German Brothers Grimm’s Aschenputtel. The majority of these originals, and Brothers Grimm’s in particular, are not the sparkles-and-magic versions we are more familiar with. They are darker, bloodier, and deadlier, though they still possess an amazing display of creativity and storytelling.

The iconic, classical Disney retelling drew from Perrault’s version. I based IRON off a blend of Aschenputtel and Perrault’s, with very little influence garnered from Disney’s. Although I wanted it to be obvious IRON is a fairy tale retelling, I also wanted to put an often-unfound spin on it, which is where Redwyn and her occupation shine through. In addition, I am a firm believer there is no such thing as ”love at first sight”, also called ”insta love”, which is quite common in many fairy tales and retellings.

Instead, I wanted to present a nonmagical retelling based on faith, family, and bravery. Perhaps that is why this story turned out rawer and much more touching than I ever imagined. Within the pages of this book loyalty drives characters to step outside their comfortable boundaries and preferences, desperation reminds them why they need God, and bravery takes root even in those who thought themselves hopeless cowards.

Heavy faith elements, feathers, cranky horses, wolves, sinister plots, a creepy forest, and more take this story beyond the typical plot found in Cinderella retellings. There’s also humor, sarcasm, and a feisty detective who can’t quite grasp the concept of tactfulness.

So, if you enjoy fairy tale retellings with a plentitude of faith, humor, and action, IRON might be the book for you.

You can find IRON’s inspiration board here.

MY REVIEW

With a palace, lords, ladies and a beautifully crafted story the author takes us on a journey where danger awaits for some. I loved that this is a retelling of Cinderella. It is not the typical story you may think because it has much more imagination along with faith elements that explode across the pages.

I loved Red immediately with her fierce determination to find out who is behind the kidnappings of children. She has flaws which are explored in the story. I loved how Red was not shy about speaking up when needed and how vulnerable she is at times. I felt like she became this innocent child at moments where she didn’t feel loved. Why would she have those thoughts?

Chamonix is a beautiful addition to the story with poise and a gentle spirit. She does have some health issues that are explored in the story. I thought this was interesting and made for a more realistic feel to the character. She has a big burden of choosing who she will marry. It must be the right one so that the kingdom will not suffer. She doesn’t want to disappoint her parents so her decision will have to be slow and with thought to how it will affect others.

Carter is the best character in this story. He is friends with Red who make for many disagreements but fun interactions. Carter hides a secret which could end his friendship with Red. If only he could confide in her how awful his stepfather is to him maybe the truth would set him free. We see him struggle as he can’t understand why God would allow his parents to die. “Beginning” in the story is what is referred to as God and Carter is angry with him. So much heartache has caused him to question the Beginning. Will he find his faith again?

As I read the story I began to understand the relationship between Cinderella and the retelling where Carter is now the focus. He is badly mistreated by his stepbrothers and they have little respect for him. I couldn’t believe they expected him to stay up all night to tend to twenty horses. I admired Carter for his level head and how he did his job humbly.

The story deals with a sensitive subject of human trafficking in a gentle way. The kidnappings continue and Red is desperate for answers. Has Carter stumbled on the truth of who is behind the scheme to take children and possibly adults ? The tension mounts throughout the book and I was glued to my spot. I was intrigued with where the author would go and how an upcoming ball could change the lives of many.

Red questions her faith as she wonders who is in control when danger is upon her, Carter and the princess. Prayers are whispered as they all need help to survive what is before them. This story has been very intense at times but I adored how the author achieved a retelling of a classic and made it more relatable and filled with faith, hope and trust. Red is reminded that “shouldn’t we place our trust in Him without reservations?”

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 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 23

Texas Book-aholic, March 24

Vibrant Wings by Valerie, March 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 25

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 26

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 27

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 27

Lily’s Book Reviews, March 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 30

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, March 31

Blogging With Carol, April 1

For Him and My Family, April 2

Mary Hake, April 2

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 3

Pause for Tales, April 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Madisyn is giving away the grand prize package of one signed copy of the book and 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/24fef/iron-celebration-tour-giveaway

CHOCOLATE BUNNY BETRAYAL

BY TONYA KAPPES

If y'all love holidays, small towns, undying relationships, southern food, animals, and a smidgen of homicide, THIS cozy mystery series is for you.

CELEBRATE GOOD CRIMES

When amateur sleuth and town journalist, Violet Rhinehammer, stumbles upon a dead body during the Hip Hop Hurray Easter Festival, she knows she has to get to the bottom of things.

As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers that one of the bunnies auditioning for the top spot was seen running away from the scene of the crime. With the added pressure of keeping her identity as the town's Merry Maker a secret, Violet must work quickly to uncover clues and find the killer before they strike again.

But the investigation takes a delicious turn after some clues turn up at bake-off competition. Could one of the baking contestants have motive to commit murder over a prize-winning dessert?

Is this a case of chocolate bunny betrayal, or is there something even darker at play?

Violet encounters a cast of colorful characters, including rival bunnies competing for the top spot, a demanding Easter Bunny, and a group of mischievous bakers vying for the top baker spot. With twists and turns at every corner, Violet must use all of her skills and wit to solve the case before the killer hops away.

MY REVIEW

Oh my I don’t think I have laughed so much in a long time. The author is brilliant in naming stores around town with funny and quirky eye catching names. I want to live in this town and celebrate every holiday with them. This tine around its the Hip Hop Hurray Easter Festival. The book comes out right before Easter so it is the perfect time to read. I loved the chocolate bunnies and of course the people dressed up in bunny costumes hoping to win the contest.

Violet is at it again when someone is murdered and the suspicion falls on her dear mama. Sweet Millie Kay was just trying to make the best chocolate bunnies around. How could they possibly think she poisoned her precious bunnies? Her scream does get attention when she finds the body. Now Violet must find the real killer while doing her duties as the secret Merry Maker. I loved how much the town loves to gossip and there are fingers pointing at who could have killed Frances. Well she does have a knack for bragging about her delicious treats she makes so maybe someone was tired of her hopping from trophy to trophy.

Get ready for an adventure where things are hopping with festivities, bunnies and a murder. If you are looking for a sweet, clean cozy mystery this is a must book to read. Join Violet as she solves another mystery and adds another holiday in a town filled with laughter and a bit of danger.

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

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

About the Book

Book: The Happy Rainbow

Author: Lillian Jane McAdoo

Illustrator: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Picture Book – Pre-school to Third grade

Release date: December 8, 2022

A precious promise from God is fading fast when a cloud meanders between the rainbow and the sun, shadowing it. The forest animals must act fast to save the beautiful happy rainbow.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lillian Jane McAdoo, about to celebrate her seventh birthday, wrote this story while in Kindergarten at the Primrose School of Highland Village, Texas, and she’s now a first grader at Hilltop Elementary School in Argyle. Besides telling stories, she enjoys t-ball, ballet, and roller skating. An only child, Lillian knows how special she is to all, and THE HAPPY RAINBOW is her debut book!

Singing and playing with cousins and friends are some of her favorite things to do. She lives with Daddy in Carrollton, Texas—he’s a great DFW Metroplex real estate agent—and her mother at her Nanny and Pops in Argyle. Lillian loves visiting Grami and O’Pa’s home, The Peaceable, out in the country where she plays with all the dogs, rides four-wheelers, and collects the hens’ eggs for her paternal grandmother!

About the Illustrator

Award-winning author Caryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory, and her best-selling stories—over sixty published—delight Christian readers around the world. The prolific writer also enjoys singing the new songs the Lord gives her; you may listen at YouTube. She’s always enjoyed drawing and graphic arts! Sharing four children and twenty-five grandsugars (six are greats), Caryl and Ron, her high-school-sweetheart-husband of fifty-four years, live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas. The McAdoos wait expectantly for God to open the next door.

More from Caryl

Oh, what a joy family is! I’m so glad the Father thought of the generations! It was my blessing to help my grandsugardoll Lillian Jane McAdoo write her debut story THE HAPPY RAINBOW. I asked her questions and she wrote her story in a purple composition book with a Crayola when she visited The Peaceable this summer. Lillian is six years old!

I asked, “What’s something you love?”

“Rainbows!”

“I love rainbows, too. So how is this rainbow?”

“Happy!” she says.

“All right then! Do you want to call your book THE HAPPY RAINBOW?”

“Yes!”

“So, you might start your story by introducing the rainbow. Then where is your rainbow going to be? What’s beneath her?”
“She’s in the sky and there’s a forest under her like your house, Grami!”

And so it went. At first, she wanted to be through before it even got to the middle, so I explained every good story had a beginning, a middle, and an end. I told her how everything had a beginning, a middle, and an end—except for God. A day has a beginning, morning, breakfast—a middle, noon, lunchtime—and an end, evening, supper.

A house has a beginning, middle, and end when it is built, lived-in, then is torn down. Trees, animals, fish, bugs, flowers, vegetables . . . everything—except God—so that they were very important! Those beginnings,wrote a blog post middles, and ends! But we could do something else if she needed time to think about her story.

“That’s what authors do,” I told Lillian. “You don’t have to write your whole book in a day.” That made her happy.

We had several discussions while we were away from the actual writing. We researched rainbows on Google and learned so many interesting things about them.

I told her how in my stories, Grami liked to have something bad happen—a crisis—that the main character has to overcome. “Can you think of something that might happen to the rainbow?”

Lillian came up with the rainbow fading, going away, but she wanted to stay in the sky. So, I asked, “What do you suppose could make it fade?”
“The sun not shining.”
“Can you think of something that keeps the sun from shining down on you?”

“A cloud.”

“Sure! So, what if a cloud got between the sun and the rainbow? Could it shade the rainbow and make it fade?”

And so it went, the questions based on her answers. And over her visit, the story came out, all handwritten—she asked how to spell many words—in the composition book with her crayon.

She was so proud, but not as proud as Grami was of her! She told me more than once how she was the author and her name went on the cover! Politely, of course, but she sure had me grinning.

After she left, I started the illustrations, all done on the computer with free images at PicMonkey. I would send each to her and get her approval.

A couple of months back, I had the honor of leading my sugardoll to invite Jesus into her heart. As the story came forth, I’d share ways that her story honored Him.

Like the rainbow didn’t get angry with the cloud, but politely asked it to move, or the sweet little cloud, sad about the dilemma he caused, wanted to oblige the rainbow, but couldn’t without the wind (help)!

How the animals joined together to pray for the rainbow like we can join together and pray for our friends when they are in trouble. Of course, about how the rainbow shows bright and proud again at the end, proclaiming God’s promise to all men!

It thrilled me to be a part of Lillian’s first picture book! The whole process proved a very rewarding experience. Perhaps she’ll keep writing!

MY REVIEW

I am so excited to see a young girl write a story with such joy and happiness. From the first page readers will find themselves falling in love with rainbows. I loved how we are reminded of God’s promise that He will never flood the earth again. The Happy Rainbow was sad because the colors were fading. Now the friends in the forest must pray for the cloud to move.

This is such a well written and beautifully illustrated story. The pictures are inviting and children will spend lots of time finding animals in the book. I like that at the end of this cute story there are fun facts about rainbows. I am giving this book to my two little granddaughters. I will purchase a copy for myself to keep as I will start my collection from this talented young author.

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