About the Book

Title: Together Forever, Orphan Train Book 2

Author: Jody Hedlund

Genre: Inspirational historical romance

Release Date: May, 2018

Determined to find her lost younger sister, Marianne Neumann takes a job as a placing agent with the Children’s Aid Society in 1858 New York. She not only hopes to offer children a better life, but prays she’ll be able to discover whether Sophie ended up leaving the city on an orphan train so they can finally be reunited.

Andrew Brady, her fellow agent on her first placing-out trip, is a former schoolteacher who has an easy way with the children, firm but tender and friendly. Underneath his charm and handsome looks, though, seems to linger a grief that won’t go away–and a secret from his past that he keeps hidden.

As the two team up, placing orphans in the small railroad towns of Illinois, they find themselves growing ever closer . . . until a shocking tragedy threatens to upend all their work and change one of their lives forever.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Jody Hedlund is the author of over a dozen novels, including Love Unexpected, Captured by Love, Unending Devotion, The Preacher’s Bride, and A Noble Groom, winner of the 2014 Carol Award for historical romance. She received a bachelor’s degree from Taylor University and a master’s from the University of Wisconsin, both in social work. She lives in Michigan with her husband and five children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog at www.jodyhedlund.com.

Guest Post from Jody Hedlund

30,000 Abandoned Children

By Jody Hedlund

Imagine a city where 30,000 abandoned and homeless children live on the streets.

Sounds like something from a futuristic dystopian novel, doesn’t it? Or something that might happen after a war or apocalypse or major disaster, right?

This exact thing actually happened in the 1850’s. And the city was New York City.

It’s hard to believe, but an estimated 30,000 homeless children roamed the dirty city streets and alleys of New York City.

30,000. Children. Let that sink in for a minute. That’s the size of a town.

Historians look back on that time and try to make sense what led to such horrific conditions for children. Of course, the influx of immigrants was at an all time high. Jobs and housing were scarce. Diseases were rampant. Hunger and poverty became a norm. (Orphan Train Depot)

As more and more people became aware of the enormous problem within the crowded slums, courageous heroes rose up and attempted to do their part to make a difference.

While we may not always agree with the methods that were used to save the thousands of homeless children, we can admire the men and women who could no longer sit idly by.

The Children’s Aid Society was started by Charles Loring Brace as one such attempt to help the hordes of homeless children. His “Emigration Plan” is better known today by the term “Orphan Trains.”

My latest series tackles various elements of the orphan train movement. Together Forever, releasing in May, highlights the placing agents, those devoted people who rode the trains with the orphans. The agents spent weeks and months on the road caring for the children, all the while trying to place them in loving homes.

(If you’d like to try out the series, start with my FREE novella, An Awakened Heart.)

Like the brave men and women who came before us, may we always strive to do our part to make a difference! 

Sometimes there are stories that tug at your heart in a way that makes you fall to your knees in tears. This story was one of them. From the beginning as I became acquainted with Marianne, I felt a bond to her. She is looking for her sister, but also takes a position with the Children's Aid Society. I didn't realize that in the late 1850s there were so many children in need of a safe place to live. I cringed when I read about the abuse some had endured. My heart went out to them as I know first hand what it is like to be abused as a child. Why would a society think that children who begged to stay alive belonged in asylum? Did it have to do with money for the places the children were at?

When Marianne meets Drew I was hopeful they could find safe passage for the children. Their journey will be met with danger, tragedy and secrets. What was it like to travel with a group of children on a train for days? The adults seemed to be able to entertain them for the most part. I loved the race that Marianne and Drew had. I wonder who won? The story made me wonder why Drew was so driven to help the children? Was it something from his past that fed his desire to help them? 

The author does a great job of expressing how the children felt as they realized they were going to new homes.  I don't really like change and it's hard for me to adjust to it. Some of the children were having a difficult time and wanted to go home. I think the unknown is what can cause us to be fearful.  When they reached their destination I found it hard to see how the children seemed to be on display for people. Can you imagine being looked at as someone decides if they want you or not? I fear that some of the people there were looking for children who could do chores for them and no intention of showing them compassion. What a difficult situation it was for Marianne to watch as children were picked to go with a new family. Will the children be treated well at their new home?  The horrible statement the sheriff makes about the children being garbage and stinking up the town was devastating . I think I would have to let the sheriff know that his judgment of the children were uncalled for. 

When tragedy strikes one of the children chaos ensues. I thought it was strange that instantly fingers pointed to Drew. Why are so many people turning against Drew? The story takes on a plan that I wasn't quite in agreement with. Marriage is a very important commitment and I have to question if the two people involved are doing it for the right reason.  Is Drew willing to sacrifice his freedom and happiness because of guilt? I did enjoy the intrigue the author included in the story. It made it a bit more interesting and focused on trusting and forgiveness. Drew has much to forgive himself for, but his pride and guilt won't let him. The author does a great job of allowing Drew to believe he is guilty of a crime because the townspeople said he was. What must Marianne think when she finds out about his past? I liked the ending even though it seemed a bit rushed and tied up neatly in a bow. I did enjoy learning about children who became orphans and wanted someone to love them. I would have liked to see more of the background of the Children's Aid Society and how much they do to help children find a forever home. It would be great to see a follow up story and revisit some of the children in their new homes.

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

Blog Stops

By The Book, May 22

Pink Granny’s Journey, May 22

Blogging With Carol, May 22

ansel book blog, May 22

Reflections From My Bookshelves, May 23

Moments Dipped in Ink, May 23

Genesis 5020, May 23

Blossoms and Blessings, May 23

Reading Is My SuperPower, May 24

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, May 24

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, May 24

Christian Bookaholic, May 24

Just the Write Escape, May 25

Among the Reads, May 25

The Power of Words, May 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 25

Radiant Light, May 26

The Christian Fiction Girl, May 26

The Avid Reader, May 26

Janices book reviews, May 26

Daysong Reflections, May 27

Mary Hake, May 27

Carpe Diem, May 27

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 27

Kathleen Denly, May 28

History, Mystery & Faith, May 28

A Baker’s Perspective, May 28

Simple Harvest Reads, May 28 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Faithfully Bookish, May 29

God’s Little Bookworm, May 29

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, May 29

Cover to Cover and Everything in Between, May 30

Neverending Stories, May 30

Maureen’s Musing, May 30

Bigreadersite, May 30

Inklings and notions, May 31

To Everything A Season, May 31

Two Points of Interest, May 31

Christian Author, J.E.Grace, May 31

Have A Wonderful Day, June 1

Lighthouse Academy, June 1

Godly Book Reviews, June 1

Red Headed Book Lady, June 2

For the Love of Books, June 2

Vicky Sluiter, June 2

proud to be an autism mom, June 3

Bibliophile Reviews, June 3

Texas Book-aholic, June 3

Connie’s History Classroom, June 4

Pause for Tales, June 4

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, June 4

Reader’s cozy corner, June 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jody is giving away a grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Click below to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/cee5/together-forever-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Title: I Am My Beloved

Author: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release Date: April, 2018

The wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. How could the wisest man ever to live turn away from following God? The key is in Ecclesiastes and the Song of Songs that King Solomon wrote after his return to the Lord. Who was the Shulamite? And why did he call her his sister spouse? Only God knows all the answers, but the King Solomon left clues. You will never forget reading this anointed story of love and may find yourself setting it down to wipe tears away or simply worship the great I AM.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Caryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory, and a quick scroll through her novels’ rankings by Christian readers attests to the Father’s faithfulness. She loves writing almost as much as singing the new songs He gives her—look her up on YouTube to hear a few. Her high school sweetheart husband won her heart fifty-two years ago, and now they share four children and seventeen grandsugars. Ron and Caryl live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas, waiting expectantly for God to open the next door.

Guest Post from Caryl McAdoo

I AM My Beloved is a story unlike any I’ve ever written in that it moved me so. Not saying all my stories don’t move me, they do—to tears and laughter. Just today I got all teary writing a scene in my WIP for next September. But I AM My Beloved moved me to worship. I literally would stop typing, bask in God’s presence, and worship.

I believe that it is anointed and of course, as always, pray it will give God glory. I pray that His children will be blessed and drawn closer to the Father reading it. It’s a romance, yes, but nothing like any proverbial historical romances you’ve ever read.

It’s the story of Abishag. Have you ever heard of her? Her name is mentioned only five times in the Bible, all in 1Kings. “So they sought for a fair damsel throughout all the coasts of Israel, and found Abishag a Shunammite, and brought her to the king.” Kings 1:3 They brought her to King David. To keep him warm during his dying days.

Scripture tells us the she cherished David, and also that he never knew her—his virgin queen. You’ll love her heart, creativity, attitudes, intelligence, and spirit of submission. It’s like all God’s beloved daughters can identify with her. Writing her story was akin to writing a love letter to Jesus. So often, it was Him and me, not these characters of olden days brought to life in I AM My Beloved.

This love story of what happens to Abishag after David’s death when Solomon, heir to the Throne becomes King of Israel. And perhaps, you’ll get a whole new take on the wisest man ever to live, as he takes on building the Temple of God, foreign wives, follows after their gods, then returns to serve the One True God and write Ecclesiastes and the Song of Solomon.

At its end, is a section I call “Search the Scriptures” that point out and explain the clues that led to its writing. I hope you’ll enjoy it!

If you are not familiar with Caryl McAdoo's writing, let me introduce you to a gifted author. She writes with compassion and tells a story that captures beauty and grace. This story is an example of purity and how an author can reach deep into your soul by the stroke of words. You feel as though you are transported into the story and are watching as it unfolds before your eyes.

I loved reading about Abishag and how her life unfolded. Her beauty was  breathtaking and everyone was amazed at her innocence. What would you do if one day you were called to be with King David? I could sense the excitement as she prepared for her life as Queen. Her love for the King is evident as she stays with him. They have a good relationship but it is not  all she had hoped for. She desires a child, but the King will not be intimate with her. When he passes she feels  heavy with grief. I liked how Bathsheba came to her and took her in. Their friendship grew and it was so nice to see how Abishag began to think of Bathsheba as a mother.

Abishag is soon called upon by the new King. King Solomon is wise and is taken with Abishag's beauty. The author writes such a beautiful story of how their relationship slowly matured. Through the years  though, Abishag is still a virgin. I can't imagine the sorrow she feels as she patiently waits for the time she will be called to be with the King. I loved reading how the Song of Solomon was written. It is pure love and devotion written for the one who holds the King's heart. As I read it, I began to cry with joy to see such unconditional love bestowed on a woman who is cherished. What kind of relationship do you have with your spouse? Can you share your feelings with words that reach into the soul?

What I liked most about the story was how Abishag obeyed God's direction and became content with her life. She was highly favored and was loved by many. It must have been difficult for her to be with the King and still have no intimacy. Would we be willing to do whatever the Lord asked of us? I think knowing how much Abishag followed God and His purpose for her life showed me that she sacrificed things, but God always took care of her. She never lacked for a home or love." She was destined to lay with Kings but stay a virgin."

The story is so well written and once again I feel a deeper relationship with God after reading it. The author writes a story that flows like sweet music. She allows the characters to reach you with their actions and emotions. I loved reading a biblical story through the eyes of an author who exemplifies elegance and beauty as the story unfolded.

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

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, June 2

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 2

Splashes of Joy, June 3

Novels Corner, June 3

Captive Dreams Window, June 4

Mary Hake, June 4

proud to be an autism mom, June 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 6

Janices book reviews, June 7

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 8

cherylbbookblog, June 9

Bibliophile Reviews, June 10

Carpe Diem, June 11

A Baker’s Perspective, June 12

The Christian Fiction Girl, June 13

Red Headed Book Lady, June 14

Bigreadersite, June 14

Godly Book Reviews, June 15

Christian Author, J.E.Grace, June 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away

GRAND PRIZE : $50 Amazon Gift Card
1st Prize: TWO novels–Choice-of-Caryl’s Titles (print or ebook)
2nd-4th: (three winners) ebook of I AM My Beloved
5th-7th: print copy VOW UNBROKEN!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/ceba/i-am-my-beloved-celebration-tour-giveaway

About these Books

Title: Journible: The 17:18 Series

Author: Robert Wynalda (a local businessman) and Dr. Joel R. Beeke (President of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary)

Genre: Non-fiction, Bible study tool

Release Date: Series released in 2009

Why the 17:18 series?
In Deuteronomy 17, Moses is leaving final instructions concerning the future of Israel. As a prophet of God, Moses foretells of when Israel will place a king over the nation (v. 14). In verse 18, the king is commanded to not simply acquire a copy of the law (the entire book of Deuteronomy) from the scroll publishing house, but to hand write his own copy of the law. Thirty-four hundred years later, educators are discovering that students that physically write out their notes by hand have a much greater retention rate than simply hearing or visually reading the information. Apparently, God knew this to be true of the kings of Israel also. From such understanding came the conception of this series of books.

How to Use These Books
Each book is organized so that you can write out your very own copy of Scripture. You will be writing the Bible text only on the right hand page of the book. This should make for easier writing and also allows ample space on the left page to write your own notes and comments. From time to time a question or word will be lightly printed on the left page; these questions are to aid in further study, but should not interfere with your own notes and comments.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Dr. Joel R. Beeke is president and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, a pastor of the Heritage Netherlands Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, Michigan, editor of Banner of Sovereign Grace Truth, editorial director of Reformation Heritage Books, president of Inheritance Publishers, and vice-president of the Dutch Reformed Translation Society. He has written, co-authored, or edited seventy books (most recently, A Puritan Theology: Doctrine for Life, Living Zealously, Friends and Lovers: Cultivating Companionship and Intimacy in Marriage, Getting Back Into the Race: The Cure for Backsliding, Parenting by God’s Promises: How to Raise Children in the Covenant of Grace, Living for the Glory of God: An Introduction to Calvinism, Meet the Puritans, Contagious Christian Living, Calvin for Today, Developing a Healthy Prayer Life, and Taking Hold of God), and contributed 2,000 articles to Reformed books, journals, periodicals, and encyclopedias. His Ph.D. is in Reformation and Post-Reformation theology from Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia). He is frequently called upon to lecture at seminaries and to speak at Reformed conferences around the world. He and his wife Mary have been blessed with three children: Calvin, Esther, and Lydia

The 17:18 Series

I have always liked bible studies because it helps me dig deeper in the word. I also have many journals that I write scriptures and thoughts in. When I saw this wonderful book, I knew I was going to enjoy it. Two of my favorite ways to study the Word in one place. I received the Journible of the book of John. I loved how you copy the scriptures down on one side and the other side there are questions to take you deeper in the word. I liked that I could take my time and write as many scriptures as I wanted. I would stop on some of them, and reread the scripture again. When writing out a scripture, it helps me to understand it better. The questions are good that are provided and very useful as you go through the book of John. I like how the journal is very durable and can last for a very long time. The pages are thick enough to write on and erase if you need to. I would love to get the whole collection and be able to journey through the bible one book at a time. 

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 17

Vicky Sluiter, May 17

Seasons of Opportunities, May 18

Lighthouse Academy, May 18

Bibliophile Reviews, May 19

Purposeful Learning, May 19

Eat, Read, Teach, Blog, May 20

Just the Write Escape, May 20

Because I said so – and other adventures in parenting, May 21

Book by Book, May 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 21

God’s Little Bookworm, May 22

Artistic Nobody, May 22

Genesis 5020, May 23

Simple Harvest Reads, May 23

Have A Wonderful Day, May 24

amandainpa, May 24

Bigreadersite, May 24

With a Joyful Noise, May 25

Pause for Tales, May 25

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 25

Among the Reads, May 26

Live. Love. Read., May 26

Multifarious, May 27

Rebekah’s Quill, May 27

A Baker’s Perspective, May 28

proud to be an autism mom, May 28

Christian Author, J.E.Grace, May 29

Janices book reviews, May 29

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, May 30

Texas Book-aholic, May 30

Giveaway

To celebrate the tour, Reformation Heritage Books is giving away a grand prize of the entire set of New Testament Journibles!!

Click below to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/cee2/journible-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Title: Highlands

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Contemporary Fantasy

Release Date: October, 2015

Introspection–this place invites it. I’ve never allowed myself the time to pause and get to know myself. My father taught me it was weak. Focus on the prize–eyes off yourself. The goal matters. You are just the instrument to get you there.

Here… Is this what that goal was and I never knew it? The peaks above, the trees that stand tall beside me as if my own personal bodyguards.

I am alive–maybe for the first time in my life–and I think it’s because I’m dead. 

A Journey of Dreams

Welcome to a new world: the world of Highlands.

When Tony Frazier arrives in Highlands, he must come to grips with a world that embraces birth defects as beautiful and to be celebrated–even those easily corrected. Balancing the beauty of utter acceptance and the wisdom of when to alter the “workmanship of God” creates tension between Tony and the Highlanders.

The Journey of Dreams series explores themes in the Christian life from a different perspective–from a world that can’t exist anywhere but in the dreams of the people who live there.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

The author of dozens of books in a variety of genres, Chautona Havig lives and writes in California’s Mojave Desert where she uses story to nudge her readers to the feet of the Master Storyteller.

Guest Video From Chautona Havig

If I was Tony, I would be freaking out right now. He can't figure out where he is and it reminds me of feeling like you are in limbo between two worlds. Tony is one of these guys who is a gifted athlete. All he has known is to push himself and be the best at everything. I liked the idea that he was found almost naked because it reminded me of Adam. Adam was confused and didn't know where he was. God clothed him and gave him directions. Tony seems to be confused and is starting to become a flight risk. I can't blame him. If I woke up in a strange place, I would want to leave as fast as possible. Maybe it's the unknown that makes us want to run, because the unknown scares us. We don't have any control and that makes us feel vulnerable.  I loved it when Bryn said, " Pride makes us do silly things." It makes us make bad decisions and hurt people . I really liked Bryn and found her to be very intuitive. As I was reading the book something caught my eye and made me stop everything. Tony says , " Even with a houseful of people, you'd be surprised how very alone you can feel." I can so relate to that statement. How many of us have people fooled? Everyone thinks you are on top of the world, but deep inside you are crying out for help? The book is very deep and I learned so much from this book. Tony having problems seeing colors is a great example of how we see things differently than others. Some people may be handicapped and to us they are flawed. God doesn't make mistakes and what we see as flawed is God showing how a handicap can be a blessing.  We can overcome things if we stop feeling sorry for ourselves and ask God what can we do to serve Him? Tony has much to learn in this place he finds different but God has him here for a reason.  Will Tony accept that he is more than just a good swimmer? Can he see the beauty in things that others find ugly or different?  The story is very good and made me take a look at myself. LikeTony, I have tried to please others. I didn't feel good about myself and was always wanting to do better, look better, be better. What I forgot, was God made me just the way He wanted me to be. I have gifts and I am loved by Him. Don't miss your chance to read this great story. " We value what we must work for-what we must wait for. That which comes too easily can disappear without regret." I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Blog Stops

Bibliophile Reviews, May 26

Blogging With Carol , May 27

Mary Hake, May 27

proud to be an autism mom, May 28

Texas Book-aholic, May 29

Among the Reads, May 30

Moments Dipped in Ink, May 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 1

Janices book reviews, June 2

Carpe Diem, June 3

A Baker’s Perspective, June 4

Bigreadersite , June 4

Christian Author, J.E.Grace, June 5

Simple Harvest Reads, June 5 (Spotlight)

Artistic Nobody, June 6 (Spotlight)

Quiet Quilter, June 7

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Chautona has put together a fun giveaway!

Grand Prize: I picture cool mornings in the mountains of Highlands. So, I’ve put together an early morning reading package for our grand prize winner. Even if it’s July, just crank up the AC, grab a lightweight throw (a scarf would even work!), brew up a cup of this delicious tea, and see what happened to Jessa (Prairie) and Tony (Highlands) when they woke up having received the desires of their hearts directly from the Lord in these contemporary fantasy novels. Happy reading!
Over a $50 value including:
Fearfully & Wonderfully Made Mug from Etsy
Tin of Tea
Paperbacks of the first 2 books in the Journey of Dreams Series!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/cebc/highlands-celebration-tour-giveaway