Wednesday, February 22, 2023

About the Book

Book: A Journey for Hope

Author: Stacy T. Simmons

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release date: January 17, 2023

With one “yes” everything Hope Fuller has sought could be hers.

Hope Fuller has life all planned out. Following a short trip to Briar Creek, North Carolina to help her sister, Hope will return home to Florida and begin her teaching career. Alas, keeping her trip short proves challenging after she sees someone from her past—a handsome lawyer who makes her heart want to plant itself within the community.

Dylan Gaines is just starting out his small-town legal practice and has his own plans for life. However, his reunion with Hope just might change some of them. Then again, their last attempt at romance ended up straining their friendship.

What will it take for Dylan and Hope to strike out on a different journey this time, one where love takes the wheel and leaves solitary plans in the dust?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Stacy T. Simmons writes uplifting fiction that delights the reader’s romantic sensibilities. Thirty-four years of marital bliss is a great contributor. She is a mom of two grown children, and she and her family have a menagerie of pets she likes to call “Noah’s Ark.” You can find her working on her next manuscript with a piece of dark chocolate and a cup of coffee nearby. She loves to connect with her readers via her web site at www.stacytsimmonsauthor.com

More from the Editor

A Light to the World by Denise Barela

This is a hard one for me to write and share. I’m writing this article, not as an author, but as an editor. This past year we lost an amazing sister in Christ, and her loss has been felt even in the small things. This month, Stacy T. Simmons’ book, A Journey for Hope releases. We were still in the editing process when she passed away, so I’ve taken over the editing of the book and have been working hard to ensure it stays as true to the way she wrote it as it can be. Stacy worked hard on this book, and we wanted to make sure her words were shared with her readers.

Stacy was such an encouragement to so many people. She would respond to emails letting you know how grateful she was or sending a little bit of encouragement for that particular day. She’s touched so many people’s lives, and it was so heartwarming to see all the authors posting how much she’d touched their lives in the last several years. We wanted to honor her memory and hard work with this book.

I’ve never had to take on another author’s role in applying edits. I’ve only ever tackled my own as a whole. I know I’m bound to make a few mistakes since I don’t know all the thoughts she put into some of what she wrote, but I’m doing my best to keep her ideas and message intact. I’m so grateful for the privilege of knowing her for the short time I did. She was an incredible person whose love for the Lord shone through. I know I’ll get to see her again in heaven one day. Until then, I will work to bring her story to the world all shiny and polished. I hope you find her words inspiring and heartwarming.

MY REVIEW

This has been such a sweet story to read and I’m sad it is over now. I loved followed Hope as she figures out the plan for her future. She is very graceful, full of life and has a compassionate heart. She travels from Florida to North Carolina to help her sister out. I could tell as soon as she arrived that her life was going to change. Being around her sister is helping her get more of a perspective on her future. I loved reading about the town and how friendly everyone is. The author does a great job of bringing her characters to life.

Dylan is someone you can depend on with his patience and hard work. He is starting out with his own law practice and is surprised when he runs into Hope. They dated once but maybe there is still a spark between them. As Hope is in need of a space to work at for now, Dylan offers her an office at his new place. Oh how I loved that this sets up the story for a time of rekindling a romance.

I liked how Hope suddenly has several job offers and needs to decide which direction she would follow. She has always wanted to do something with her photography but she has a heart to be a teacher as well. She loves to see how excited the children get as she works patiently with each student in art class. I felt like I was right there with her as she prays about her future.

I loved how the story illustrates second chances and trusting God with guiding you in your decisions. The relationship between Hope and Dylan was not rushed and we get to see how they honor their faith by not moving too quickly. I loved the ending and found myself cheering for a story that brought a smile to my face.

I want to acknowledge an author that was taken to soon from us. Her stories have always been a delight to read with encouragement, faith and good characters that are relatable. I’m honored that I was able to read her last book and pray that her family finds comfort during this time. She will be missed but her stories will live on forever.

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

The Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 10

HappyWhenReading, February 10

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 11

Back Porch Reads, February 11

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 13

An Author’s Take, February 14

deb’s Book Review, February 15

Christina’s Corner, February 15

Simple Harvest Reads, February 16 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, February 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 17

She Lives To Read, February 18

Sylvan Musings, February 19

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 20

Holly’s Book Corner, February 20

Melissa’s Bookshelf, February 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 21

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, February 21

Texas Book-aholic, February 22

Blogging With Carol, February 23

For Him and My Family, February 23

Giveaway

To celebrate Stacy’s tour, Celebrate Lit 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/242a4/a-journey-for-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

The Parent’s Battle Plan Epic Book Launch

About the Book

Book: The Parent’s Battle Plan: Warfare Strategies to Win Back Your Prodigal

Author: Laine Lawson Craft

Genre: Non-fiction

Release date: March 14, 2023

You are not alone–there is hope and healing for every hurting heart.

Today’s technology has made sinful experiences and deadly choices accessible to our teenagers and young adults with just a click. And parents are left with the disappointments–and devastating fallout–of their children’s choices.

Through sharing her own story of praying three very wayward prodigals home, Laine Lawson Craft offers not only hope and insight, but also a practical, tried-and-true battle plan for parents walking this heartbreaking season of life. You’ll discover how to

• handle the emotional roller coaster of trust

• deal with your children’s self-destructive choices

• pray emboldened by God’s promises

• fight for your child’s destiny

• and more

You can win the war of darkness over your children–even when you don’t get the miracle you asked for.

The Parents Battle Plan Excerpt 6

In their place are a fear and dread of what might be coming next.

Our responsibility, as parents, includes certain vows much like those of marriage. So

many of us recited the “for better or worse” clause when we committed ourselves to our

spouses. With our children, we agreed in essence to the same and more. What we may not have

understood at the time was the fact that there were others who would do their best to take

them away from us.

In a marriage if things get really, really bad, it is possible to separate without divorcing.

It is also possible to agree to table discussions on specific topics until both parties are ready to

address them. The same cannot be said for our relationships with our children. Most of the

time, we are ensconced inside the house with them through thick and thin. A teen will seldom

agree to table anything. They tend to communicate in emotional outbursts.

So beyond putting a roof over their heads and food in their mouths for an extended

period, we also have the joy—and sometimes the misery—of sitting on the front row in their theater of life.

MISSED ANY EXCERPTS, GO HERE:

Excerpt One: https://lakesidelivingsite.wordpress.com/2023/02/09/the-parents-battle-plan-epic-book-launch/

Excerpt Two: https://coverloverbookreview.blogspot.com/2023/02/the-parents-battle-plan.html?spref=tw

Excerpt Three: https://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com/2023/02/celebrate-lit-epic-book-launch-presents.html

Excerpt Four: http://becauseisaidsomyadventuresinparenting.blogspot.com/2023/02/the-parents-battle-plan-warfare.html

Excerpt Five: https://debbieloseanything.blogspot.com/2023/02/the-parents-battle-plan-epic-book-launch.html?m=0

Excerpt Six: http://deana0326.blogspot.com/2023/02/the-parents-battle-plan-epic-book.html

Excerpt Seven: https://guildmaster97.wordpress.com/2023/02/22/the-parents-battle-plan-epic-book-launch-excerpt/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is a best-selling and award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomenmagazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook and Instagram Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Florida.

About the Book

Book: Uncompromising

Author: K.J. Rowe

Genre: Teen/YA

Release date: February, 2022

Dylan Saunders has got it all. He’s got a great job as a Diesel Mechanic, a killer Harley Davidson Motorbike, his local Football club has just won the Premiership cup and he’s sure the girl he wants feels the same about him. Life is good.

Only, at home it isn’t.

His troubled younger brother, and his mum’s depression since his dad’s death, take a lot out of his time and the only break he gets is at youth group, work or playing football. Reluctant to accept the captain’s role at his local Football club because of the extra strain it would place on him, Dylan finds however he cannot say no when out of the blue, the Australian Football League come knocking!

Thrust into celebrity status with a booming ALF club, Dylan finds his grasp on things that once grounded him begin to slip. Tension increases in his friendships; his younger brother is caught up with bad company; his mum’s behaviour is odd; but he’s playing football at the highest level. He can support his family and he’s set up for life now. God is blessing him!

Right?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Since I could hold a pencil, I’ve be writing.

In primary school, I wrote stories about my pets, my own version of princess stories, a classroom crush…

In high school, I wrote stories about horses, adventures, my sister…

However, as strong as the writing hobby was, I still pursued a career in Veterinary Nursing.

It wasn’t until God intervened and moved me out of the city and into a small country town to be a farmer’s wife, that he resurfaced the writing desire – and gave me the stories. So was born my debut series, each book holding a part of my own testimony, Casts of Silver.

It is my prayer that you enjoy the journey these stories take you on, and that they challenge, encourage and inspire you.

More from K.J. Rowe

Hello! Im Karen, or Kazzy Wazzy to my husband.

Since I could hold a pencil, I’ve been writing.

In primary school, I wrote stories about my pets, my own version of princess stories, a classroom crush… *grin*

In high-school, I wrote stories about horses, adventures, my Sister…remember that story sis? *smile*

However, as strong as the writing hobby was, I still pursued a career in Veterinary Nursing by day, and a professional Ballroom Dance teacher of an evening.

It wasn’t until God intervened, moved me out of the city at into a small country town to be a farmers wife, that He resurfaced the writing desire – and gave me the stories. So was born my debut series, each book holding a part of my own testimony, Casts of Silver.

Centred around five youth group leaders, the stories look at very real circumstances young people face without sugar coating consequences of individual actions. However, where is God when problems arise?

Well, He’s always closer than you think, and He’s always working for your good.

It is my prayer you enjoy the journey these stories take you on and that they challenge, encourage and inspire you.

MY REVIEW

This story is geared toward teens and young adults. The book does have some language that could be offensive to some as well as drinking and talk of assault on a minor. At first I was a little put off by the story but as I read more of it, I got what the author was illustrating. We follow Dylan as his career takes off and he is selected to be a part of the Australian Football League. I can’t imagine the pressure that would be deciding your future and looking at becoming famous .

I liked Dylan and how he never swayed from his faith. There were many temptations for him, but he stayed true to God. I loved how he was an example to his teammates and friends. There is a part in the story where he has a serious talk about God with someone from the team. I think we have all questioned why God allows bad things to happen. Dylan’s explanation to his friend was simple. We all have a choice . God lets us choose between good and evil.

Dylan has a lot going on as his brother gets involved with drugs, trying to keep up with the team and not let pride get in the way. I loved when someone very wise told Dylan he was an encourager. We all need one of those in our life. Dylan seems surprised that people don’t see him as a leader and doesn’t understand how his words have encouraged others. I like the way the author ended the story and will give readers much to think about.

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 19

Christina’s Corner, February 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 20

Texas Book-aholic, February 21

An Author’s Take, February 22

deb’s Book Review, February 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 24

Guild Master, February 25 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 25

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

Cover Lover Book Review, February 27

Artistic Nobody, February 28 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 2

Pause for Tales, March 3

For Him and My Family, March 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, K.J. is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 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/2451b/uncompromising-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, February 19, 2023

About the Book

Book: Courage in the Shadows

Author: Robin Patchen

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Release date: Febraury 14, 2023

When she crosses paths with a killer from her past, can she survive long enough to step into her future?

Ever since she and thirteen other models were kidnapped years before, Summer Lake has fought to ensure that she can protect herself. But when her job as a bodyguard brings her into contact with a man she believes masterminded her kidnapping, her first urge is to run, terrified of being taken again. Instead, she follows the stranger, determined to bring him to justice.

Bodyguard Grant Wright fell in love with Summer the instant he saw her, a fierce protector standing in front of the other endangered young women he’d come to rescue. Years later, Summer still sees him as barely more than a coworker. Grant bides his time, sticking close in an effort to keep her safe and hoping she’ll eventually open her heart to him. When her life is threatened, he’s not about to allow her to fight her enemies alone. He’ll stay by her side whether she wants him or not.

But Summer and Grant have an enemy whose global smuggling organization is so powerful, so pervasive, that it’ll be a miracle if either of them emerges from this battle alive.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Robin Patchen is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of Christian romantic suspense. She grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, the setting of her Nutfield Saga books, and then headed to Boston to earn a journalism degree. After college, working in marketing and public relations, she discovered how much she loathed the nine-to-five ball and chain. After relocating to the Southwest, she started writing her first novel while she homeschooled her three children. The novel was dreadful, but her passion for storytelling didn’t wane. Thankfully, as her children grew, so did her writing ability. Now that her kids are adults, she has more time to play with the lives of fictional heroes and heroines, wreaking havoc and working magic to give her characters happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s editing or reading, proving that most of her life revolves around the twenty-six letters of the alphabet. Visit robinpatchen.com/subscribe to receive a free book and stay informed about Robin’s latest projects.

More from Robin

In Lineage of Corruption, the heroine offhandedly refers to her bodyguard as a “Venus statue.” It seemed a fair description of the woman known at the time only as Lake.

But it made me wonder… Why would a nearly six-foot-tall, drop-dead gorgeous blonde become a bodyguard?

We learned a little more about Lake in Wreathed in Disgrace, including the fact that her partner, Jon, was also her cousin—a man who considered her as close as a sister.

We also learned that Lake didn’t have the happiest background.

Slowly, over the course of writing two books, Lake became more than just the pretty bodyguard in the corner. She became real to me.

And her murky background came into view. What would make a beautiful woman, a woman given the whimsical name Summer Lake, a woman who could easily grace magazine covers—and has in the past—decide to lay down her curling iron and pick up a sidearm?

I won’t tell you her secret, but suffice it to say, Summer has good reason to carry a gun. She’s been threatened in the past. And when she was a kid, she didn’t even feel safe in her own home. She’s seen people she loved and cared about harmed, and she loathes nothing more than watching the strong prey on the weak.

She decided a long time ago that she’s never going to be counted among the weak again.

But when Summer follows a man she’s pretty sure was the mastermind behind her own worst nightmare, she inadvertently overhears his nefarious plans. Only she wasn’t as hidden as she thought, and if not for Grant, her new partner—a man who’s doggedly determined to make sure she stays safe—she might have been killed.

With just enough information to know something terrible is going to happen, Summer and Grant embark on a quest to bring down Summer’s old enemy.

But he knows who she is, and he’s not going down without a fight.

This book was a blast to write, and I absolutely can’t wait for you to get your hands on it. It’s got a hunky and protective hero, a strong yet vulnerable heroine, and a villain who’ll keep you awake at night.

I hope you’ll check it out!

MY REVIEW

I love reading books by this author because she delivers action, suspense and characters that are strong in faith. I enjoy getting to know them on a deeper level and this story especially was geared toward safety, forgiveness and family. We learn more about Summer in this book which helped me understand some of her decisions. She is flawed but still desires to have a family bond. That was almost taken away at one time so she works even harder to protect those close to her. When danger comes her way she reaches out to her cousin for help. I liked her cousin and how he was always there for her. One thing I really liked about Summer was that she refused to ever be weak again. Having that taken away from her has drawn her back to her faith.

With the addition of Grant to the story he brings intelligence, deep feelings for Summer and the intense need to protect her. Summer is on the run from someone from her past who is not just dangerous but vindictive. Grant has this sense of trying to out wit the enemy but at times Summer tries to exclude him. I wonder if sharing his feelings for her was such a great idea? She is nowhere near wanting to let anyone in and Grant will have to break down emotional walls to make her feel loved.

There is a part in the story when Summer meets Grant’s family. The tension between Grant and his brother Bryan has been stewing for years. I liked how the author showed how important it is to keep a close relationship with your family. As Summer observes Grant with his siblings and parents her heart hungers for a family like his. I could relate to Summer yearning for a close knit family. She knows that Grant and Bryan have issues with each other, but she prays that they can work it out. It is interesting to see that Grant can’t forgive himself for something that happened to his brother when they were younger, while Bryan comes to realize he needs to forgive Grant.

Be ready for a story with non stop action as the author delivers us a lesson in forgiveness and trusting God. The ending is worthy of an Emmy as we are taken deep into the world of drugs with danger on a yacht and lives at stake. In the midst of danger our characters turn to God for help and put their faith in him.

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