Wednesday, July 5, 2023

About the Book

Book: Convergence

Author: Rena Groot

Genre: Apocalyptic Fiction based on the Book of Revelation

Release date: 2021

Convergence-A Window Into Eternity offers a glimpse into an apocalyptic world that was foretold thousands of years ago. As the climactic showdown between good and evil approaches, the convergence of prophetic signs is accelerating at an alarming pace. Yet, beyond the nightmare, a time of beauty, peace, and love awaits. The book invites readers to witness the unfolding drama as the curtain is pulled back. Within its pages, there are numerous messages to ponder—from trusting God no matter the circumstances to being strong and courageous in the face of adversity. The book reminds us that this life is fleeting, and eternity is at stake. The chapter called The Bride Price describes what Jesus endured to purchase our freedom. The book also reveals the despicable nature of Satan and offers a glimpse into the potential future under the rule of the Antichrist. Most importantly, Convergence-A Window Into Eternity showcases the beauty of Heaven and what it could be like to see Jesus.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Hi. My name is Rena Groot. I am an artist, writer, online course creator (Broken to Beautiful…rena-groot.mykajabi.com), BnB host, have been a teacher in Canada and China, a tour manager from the Rockies to the Pacific, and a missionary to the ends of the Earth. God has given me the honor of being an ambassador with “The Department of Eternal Affairs” to so many surprising places. I prayed with a voodoo queen in Haiti, led a dying woman to Jesus in a hut in a jungle village in Belize, helped with “Sidewalk Sunday Schools” in the Ghetto in NYC, took food and clothing to persecuted Christians behind the Iron Curtain in Poland and Romania, volunteered in Israel… just to name a few amazing things God led me to do. I started a blog to bless, encourage, and sometimes challenge people. Here’s the link. renagroot.com

More from Rena

Get ready for a thrilling adventure that will take you on a journey like no other. The Narrow Path Trilogy is an epic drama based on the book of Revelation that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The series explores some of the deepest issues we face in today’s turbulent times. As fear grips many, the trilogy offers a glimmer of hope by helping readers develop a deeper faith and trust in God. If you enjoyed the Left Behind series, you’ll love this dystopian trilogy that delves even deeper into what Christians could face in the future. The chapter called ‘The Bride Price’ may make you cry. Convergence describes the merging of prophetic signs John the beloved disciple saw in visions while stranded on the Isle of Patmos. It points us to the accelerating culmination of human history and ushers the reader through the portals of time and into eternity.

MY REVIEW

This book takes us inside with John as he is thrown in prison for not bowing down. He can’t bring himself to dishonor God and is committed to bowing only to the one true God. The author takes us inside the prison cell as John endures beatings and threats of death. I loved reading about John sharing about Jesus and how he died on the cross for us. It is a powerful message that sets the stage for what is to come. Will others believe John and follow Jesus?

Josh is desperate to get a message to his wife Rachel but he is fearful that the person who can deliver the message may not be trustworthy. You can feel his inner turmoil as he knows that Rachel must be warned of the danger. While Josh is talking to his friend Sam, he is reminded of something. “We humans put up walls, to protect our hearts. The walls imprison us.” Sam continues and says, “I have escaped my prison. My spirit fought transhuman cyborg and I have won.” I had to think about that for a moment. The enemy tries to break us yet we have to power to resist him if we believe.

I enjoyed following Josh and his wife on their mission to rescue young girls who have been locked up waiting for someone to rescue them from an evil woman who wants to sell them. As you can tell the world is coming unraveled and soon destruction will happen. We are warned in the Bible about this but to read it here makes it even more realistic.

John’s story is filled with what will happen in the end times. He shares his visions and calls on those to turn their lives around. He is vivid in his description about what is to come and wants to help as many as he can turn to Jesus.

The part about Heaven and hell is very eye opening. We have been given the choice to follow Him. Will you choose to give your life to Him and live for eternity, or deny Him and live in hell where pain and darkness awaits?

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 1

Christina’s Corner, July 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 3

Artistic Nobody, July 4 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Book Reviews, July 5

Texas Book-aholic, July 6

Guild Master, July 7 (Author Interview)

The Lit Lady, July 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, July 8

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, July 9

Through the Fire Blogs, July 10 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 11

Stories By Gina, July 12 (Author Interview)

Scott’s Book Reviews, July 12

Blogging With Carol, July 13

Splashes of Joy, July 14 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rena is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a 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/26793/convergence-celebration-tour-giveaway

Monday, July 3, 2023

About the Book

Book: Rescue in the Wilderness

Author: Andrea Byrd

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: June 27, 2023

William Cole cannot forget the cruel burden he carries, not with the pock marks that serve as an outward reminder. Riddled with guilt, he assumed the solitary life of a long hunter, traveling into the wilds of Kentucky each year. But his quiet existence is changed in an instant when, sitting in a tavern, he overhears a man offering his daughter—and her virtue—to the winner of the next round of cards. William’s integrity and desire for redemption will not allow him to sit idly by while such an injustice occurs.

Lucinda Gillespie has suffered from an inexplicable illness her entire life. Her father, embarrassed by her condition, has subjected her to a lonely existence of abuse and confinement. But faced with the ultimate betrayal on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, Lucinda quickly realizes her trust is better placed in his hands of the mysterious man who appears at her door. Especially when he offers her the one thing she never thought would be within her grasp—freedom.

In the blink of an eye, both lives change as they begin the difficult, danger-fraught journey westward on the Wilderness Trail. But can they overcome their own perceptions of themselves to find love and the life God created them for?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Andrea Byrd is a Christian wife and mom located in rural Kentucky, who loves to spend time with her family in the great outdoors, one with nature. Often described as having been born outside her time, she has a deep affinity for an old-fashioned, natural lifestyle.

With a degree in Equine Health & Rehabilitation gathering dust and a full-time job tethering her to a desk eight hours a day, Andrea decided it was time to show both herself and her children that it is truly possible to make your dreams come true. Now with over 1,000 contemporary Christian romance novellas sold, Andrea is pursuing her passion of writing faith-filled romance woven with a thread of true history.

More form Andrea

There is so much inspiration that fed into the creation of Rescue in the Wilderness.

Not only was the Good Lord’s guiding hand ever-present, but so was the influence of those that came before me. This story was inspired by my own ancestors, as well as the countless others, that made the arduous journey through Cumberland Gap to settle in Kentucky. Those brave souls opened up a whole new world, and for some of us, established the area in which their families would preside for centuries to come.

As a lover of books that integrate history into fiction myself, I also wished to shed light on the “Hard Winter” of 1779-1780. This was a winter that came early, and with great intensity. While it caused hardships for many across the country, it made the journey through the Cumberland Gap all the more perilous.

Beyond these historical facts, I also wished to pay tribute to those who suffer from chronic pain conditions. I will never forget the day a friend of mine, whom the Lord called home all too soon, told me of her childhood rheumatoid arthritis and how there were days she was in too much pain to leave her bed. In this book, I wished to explore what pioneer life might have been for someone who suffered from such a condition.

MY REVIEW

The opening scene of this book was very emotional and I was hooked right away. Lucinda has lived a very sheltered life but not by choice. Her cruel father blames her for her mother’s death and now punishes her by keeping her locked up in the home. We can feel her complete hopelessness and I had to cry. This hit home for me because my parents never once said they loved me and told me every day how stupid I was. Like Lucinda I was abused which made me not trust anyone or even want to get close to anyone. Lucinda became the younger version of me that I never was and I desperately wanted her to be rescued and find love.

William is a loner who mostly lives in the wilderness hunting and occasionally comes into a town for provisions. What he overhears while in a tavern pushes him to do something out of the ordinary for most people. He carries guilt around for something that happened and thus he keeps his distance from everyone. The adventure begins when he and Lucinda join together on a mission that will have lasting effects on both of them.

The treacherous terrain they travel on is unforgiving and at times seemed hopeless. I loved how deeply William cared for Lucinda as her guard starts to come down around him. By accident he discovers some scars on her and you can feel his anger start to rise. It made me think of the scars many of us carry everyday. Some may be visible but a lot are hidden deep in our soul. As the author illustrates, God is there to heal us and give us joy as we begin a new season filled with forgiven and acceptance.

The time period is represented well by details the author provides that make you feel as if you are shivering as the snow falls. The story flows well and is not only a lesson in God’s mercy and forgiveness but in how unconditional love from God sets you free from your past.

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

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 28

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, June 29 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 29

Connie’s History Classroom, June 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, July 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 2

Texas Book-aholic, July 3

Lighthouse Academy Blog, July 3 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

lakesidelivingsite, July 4

Betti Mace, July 5

Pause for Tales, July 5

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, July 6

For Him and My Family, July 7

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, July 7

Karen Baney Reviews, July 8

Cover Lover Book Review, July 8

Jeanette’s Thoughts, July 9

Splashes of Joy, July 10

To Everything There Is A Season , July 10

Holly’s Book Corner, July 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Andrea 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/2678e/rescue-in-the-wilderness-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, July 2, 2023

About the Book

Book: Man of Shadow and Mist

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: June, 2023

“The world seems full of good men—even if there are monsters in it.”

–Bram Stoker, Dracula

England, 1890

Vampires are alive and well in North Yorkshire, leastwise in the minds of the uneducated. Librarian Rosa Edwards intends to drive a stake through the heart of such superstitions. But gossip flies when the mysterious Sir James Morgan returns to his shadowy manor. The townsfolk say he is cursed.

James hates everything about England. The weather. The rumours. The scorn. Yet he must stay. His mother is dying of a disease for which he’s desperately trying to find a cure—an illness that will eventually take his own life.

When Rosa sets out to prove the dark gossip about James is wrong, she discovers more questions than answers. How can she accept what she can’t explain—especially the strong allure of the enigmatic man? James must battle a town steeped in fear as well as the unsettling attraction he feels for the no-nonsense librarian.

Can love prevail in a town filled with fear and doubt?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

And guess what? She loves to hear from readers! Feel free to drop her a note at michellegriep@gmail.com.

More from Michelle

A Visit to Whitby

Every time I skip across the pond, I make it a point to visit Whitby. What’s the draw? This northern Yorkshire town is steeped in history and is every bit as magical today as it was back in Bram Stoker’s day…when he went to visit and was inspired to set much of his Dracula tale there. In fact, that is exactly where he got the inspiration for the name Dracula when he visited the library and did a bit of research.

Sound interesting? Then come along with me on a virtual visit with pictures from my last trip.

When walking the windy, narrow roads of Whitby, you can’t help but let your imagination wander because it’s as if you’re there in the nineteenth century. Can’t you just see a long-gowned heroine glancing over her shoulder at you as she flees down this lane?

And overlooking these lanes is the infamous abbey ruins, an eerie sentinel that sits atop the cliffs. It is rumoured a ghostly woman appears in the window, but I didn’t see her.

Still in operation today is this old coaching inn, which of course I had to use in one of my scenes.

There are still fishermen who ply these waters for trade, but this harbor isn’t nearly as active as it was centuries ago.

Twice I’ve made the coastal hike from Whitby to Robinhood’s Bay. This is where I imagined librarian Rosa Edwards riding her bicycle delivering books.

And yes, indeed, the sea mists are a very real thing, sometimes so thick it’s disorienting.

So, see what I mean? Whitby is a magical place, well worth the effort to get to if you ever venture over to England. And if that doesn’t quite fit into your budget or schedule, never fear.

MY REVIEW

Step back in time to a place where rumors of vampires run rampant. I loved how the author gives us a look at how rumors and gossip can lead to shunning of a person. I loved Sir James instantly and thought his character was very easy to like. As you read the story you will find that he is not trusting of others and stays to himself. With so many people spreading lies about him and his family, it is no wonder he doesn’t want to get close to anyone.

Rosa is a sweet character who works as a librarian with her father. Oh she adores books and has this heart to bring books to those who can’t pay the fee to read them. When Rosa and James meet it is a bit funny but it sure did open my eyes to how Janes so desired to be accepted. Their encounters grow into a friendship that upsets some but Rosa feels like he is a good man. Her dream to be a secretary is not received well by her parents. They want to marry her off but she stands her ground.

With a feel of chills going down my spine and a nod to Bram Stroker I devoured every word as James has a urgent need to find a cure for his mother as people surround me with threats and danger. Rosa is his constant along with faith that is evident throughout the story. I have to say this story is one that has a deep message that shows how God is ever present in our times of need. To find out what happens to James and Rosa, grab a copy and get ready for a must read, heart pounding adventure where rumors can harm people and faith withstands lies.

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