Tuesday, February 21, 2023

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.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 17

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , February 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 18

An Author’s Take, February 19

Texas Book-aholic, February 20

deb’s Book Review, February 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 22

Holly’s Book Corner, February 22

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 23

Betti Mace, February 24

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, February 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 26

Blogging With Carol, February 27

Spoken from the Heart, February 28

Mary Hake, February 28

For Him and My Family, March 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Robin is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 gift card and a paperback copy of Wreathed in Disgrace!!

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/24518/courage-in-the-shadows-celebration-tour-giveaway

Friday, February 17, 2023

About the Book

Book: A Trail So Lonesome

Author: Lacy Williams

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: January 12, 2023

Spending five months eating trail dust wasn’t Leo Spencer’s first choice. Or his second. He’s not one to run away, but some situations can’t be fixed and his family—two brothers and a sister—needs to start over. Which is how he finds himself on a westbound wagon train.

Evangeline has a secret, one that has sent her on a journey across the plains on the Oregon Trail. When her father is badly hurt and she needs help, Leo is there. A deal is struck and the two unlikely friends form an alliance… that leads to more.

But Evangeline’s secret looms over her… and Leo’s family troubles are far from over.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lacy Williams wishes her writing career was more like what you see in Hallmark movies: dreamy brainstorming from a French chateau or a few minutes at the computer in a million-dollar New York City penthouse. In reality, she’s up before the sun, putting words on the page before her kids wake up for the day. Those early-morning and late-night writing sessions add up, and Lacy has published sixty books in a decade, first with a big five publisher and then as an indie author. When she needs to refill the well, you can find Lacy birdwatching, gardening, biking with the kiddos, or walking the dog. Find tons of bonus scenes and reader extras by becoming a VIP reader at www.lacywilliams.net/vip

More from Lacy

Leaving Home

Do you remember what it was like when you left home? Was it a specific event that sticks out in your mind? Or was it gradual?

I moved into the dorms at my university when I was eighteen. After that, I felt sort of… in transition. I went home for winter break and during the summer, but I didn’t feel like my parents’ house was home anymore. I married my sweet hubby when we were both twenty and that’s when I felt like I had a true home again. (Even though it was a tiny one-bedroom apartment!)

My new series, Wagon Train Matches, is all about travelers on a journey across the country in their Conestoga wagons. In the 1850s, people would leave home, leave everything and everyone behind and travel across the plains and mountains mostly on foot. It was difficult and dangerous. And when they arrived, they didn’t have houses ready and waiting for them!

It’s been a lot of fun researching for this series. Understanding why people would risk everything for a new start. I think it would be both exciting and terrifying!

In A TRAIL SO LONESOME, heroine Evangeline wants to leave home for a new start. She’s carrying a secret with her (a bigger secret than the library of books she’s packed in the wagon!) and believes that starting over in Oregon will change everything.

Only it doesn’t take long on the trail for someone to discover her secret. Hero Leo has secrets of his own. He can’t afford Evangeline to look too closely at his family. But he also can’t seem to stay away from her.

Eek! I’m really excited to kick off this new series with A TRAIL SO LONESOME. I hope you love these characters as much as I have while writing them.

-Lacy

MY REVIEW

I loved how the author wrote a story that captures a realistic look at what it may have been like on a wagon train . The long hours, restless nights and weather conditions all play a part in this incredible story. Whenever I read a story like this it reminds me of my grandfather. He traveled by wagon to Oklahoma to homestead his land. The stories he told about his travels were very intriguing.

Evangeline convinced her father to join the wagon train to find a better life. She wants to get away from all the gossip that is surrounding her and make a fresh start. She is hiding a secret that she thinks will cause others to turn their back on her. I thought her father was an honorable man who supported his daughter and wanted a good life for her. Her decision to move will cost more than she realizes as danger soon follows.

Leo is a great character who has a soft spot for Evangeline’s “little sister.” I loved how caring he was and soon was agreeing to help Evangeline on the trail. Their arrangement was interesting and I wondered how long it would last. Leo also has his hands full trying to help keep everyone in line while still keeping an eye on Evangeline.

The story is emotional and lets us get to know Leo and Evangeline better. Their interaction is tense at first because Evangeline is very stubborn and prideful. She is so worried that her secret will be discovered that she keeps everyone especially Leo at arms length. I loved watching these two slowly start to trust each other even though it does take Evangeline a bit longer. I’m excited that there will be more books coming in this exciting series.

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

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 16

Pause for Tales, February 16

Vicky Sluiter, February 17

Texas Book-aholic, February 18

deb’s Book Review, February 19

Labor Not in Vain, February 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 20

Lighthouse Academy, February 21 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 22

Connie’s History Classroom, February 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 24

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 24

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 25

Britt Reads Fiction, February 26

Simple Harvest Reads, February 27 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Karen Baney, February 27

Cover Lover Book Review, February 28

For Him and My Family, March 1

Holly’s Book Corner, March 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lacy is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and 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/24517/a-trail-so-lonesome-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Underground Book Readers: The Secret Society

Author: Terry Overton

Genre: Upper Middle Grade, Pre-Teen, Teen, YA Christian Fiction Dystopian

Release date: December 15, 2022

In a world without books, schools, churches, and parents, how can teens and pre-teens find each other and work to bring back a world like the world before? Ever watchful, this group of friends meet in an underground cavern in the mountains of Virginia. Rumors of spies, enemy soldiers, and the possibility of finding their parents, keep these friends searching to make a better life for everyone.

In Book 1, The Secret Society, the original four members of the group discover new documents, clues, and tools to assist in their adventures. In the hope of someday finding others who can help establish a new settlement, they study, plan, and make discoveries that will propel them forward in their journey. Are others hiding from the World Force Soldiers? They are determined to find the answer.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Terry Overton obtained her Ph.D. in Psychology and her Ed. D. in special education. She taught in public schools and was a school psychologist and a professor before retiring in 2016. She began her second “career” after retirement writing Christian fiction books and devotionals. She hopes to share the Christian worldview through her writing and touch the lives of her readers. Her books have earned Bookfest Awards, Firebird Award Winner, American Writing Award Gold, International Finalist Book Award, Reader Views Awards, and Reader’s Favorite Awards. She currently resides in Laguna Vista, Texas, near the Texas-Mexico border. She enjoys Biblical history and general Bible studies, writing, and enjoying family and friends. She has seven grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

More from Terry

This book came from my concern about children and teens not being able to read many of the classic books we cherish. My concern that many children and teens do not value reading, our faith, and our freedoms, is the reason for the book being a dystopian story. In this new world, there are no books, school, or churches.

Here is the intro:

The world was not ready for what happened. And in the mountains and valleys of Virginia, a group of young friends wondered what to do in this different world. Their parents and older siblings were taken away, or “disappeared,” and have not been seen since that fateful day. Schools were destroyed, churches burned, and books banned. There was no fuel or electricity available for the anyone. Cars and other vehicles no longer worked and were found abandoned beside the roads rusting and in disrepair. Only the World Force military had fuel and vehicles.

The discovery of books, documents, tools, clues, and other teens hiding in the countryside, brought hope to group of friends who met daily deep in the cavern. Follow their journey of hope and adventure through the series: The Underground Book Readers.

And what do teens do when their world has changed and there are no parents or other friendly adults? They find each other, find forbidden books such as Huckleberry Finn and the Bible, hide in a cavern, read, study, and plan for a better world.

MY REVIEW

This is a great story for middle school and up as we journey through what it may be like when the world is taken over. Can you imagine being all alone as a young child and find out that what you use to call The United States is now run by those who want to control everything? The author paints a picture of survival and banning together in order to survive. When we are introduced to this group of young children I was in awe of how structured they were. They shared food, looked out for each other, read books together and attended their own church. I was impressed with how easy it was to find myself waking beside them as they went for food rations each day.

Each child has something of value for the group and it was interesting to see how they figured out how to survive each day and keep their faith. I really enjoyed their time in church as they went through scriptures and talked about the different people in the Bible. I liked how one of the kids said, “ I think people forgot about the important things and were not paying attention.” We do that today with our busy lives and forget about what is really important. People stop going to church and before you know it the world is changing from God first to worldly things. The author does a great job of sharing God’s Word through these characters who are very wise. They see how things have changed and want to try to get back to the way God wants us to live. He desires us to worship him, love each other and share the Word with others.

The story is full of surprises and secret documents that will help the group in the days ahead. The author leaves readers with a cliffhanger and I will be anxiously awaiting for the next book in this exciting series set in the future.

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