Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Captive Set Free by Valerie Limmer

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Captive Set Free by Valerie Limmer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: Captive Set Free 

Author: Valerie Limmer 

Publisher: Green Sap Publications 

Release Date: October 18, 2022 

Genre: Non-Fiction, Christian Living

Have you been hurt? Are you hounded by turbulent feelings and looping thoughts? Do you know you need to forgive but aren't sure where to begin?

Captive Set Free is a lamppost along the path of healing, offering engaging stories and examples, explaining how forgiveness fits into our spiritual DNA, and examining mindsets that make forgiving easier or harder. In this book, you'll learn how to

 - take concrete steps to forgive; 

- be sure forgiveness has taken hold in your heart; and 

 - guard your spirit from bitterness, both now and in the future. 

If you're tired of being imprisoned by pain and toxicity and want to step into the free and abundant life Jesus has planned for His children, this book is for you.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

 

EXCERPT

This passage always touches me with its tenderness:

For as high as the heavens are above the earth, 

So great is His loving kindness toward those who fear Him. 

As far as the east is from the west, 

So far has He removed our transgressions from us. 

(Psalm 103:11–12)

These verses remind me of a parent and child. The parent says, “How much do you love me?”

Stretching out his arms as wide as they can go, the child exclaims, “This much!”

In this case, it’s God who’s widening His arms—and they are very big indeed! He isn’t afraid of being undignified.

“How much do You love me?”

“This much.” His arms get really tall. “How much have You forgiven me?”

“This much!” He stretches as far as the east is from the west. God is extravagant that way.

The apostle Peter once asked Jesus an important question: “How many times should I forgive? Seven times?”

Jesus replied, “Seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21–22)

Four hundred and ninety times. That doesn’t seem so outrageous. I would have been more comfortable if Jesus had said, “One million times”; I’m sure I’ll sin against my husband and family more than four hundred and ninety times during my life.

But Jesus combined His godly extravagance with gentleness toward human frailty. We tend to get overwhelmed. We turn off and tune out the impossible. Jesus took Peter’s number—the highest he was willing to go—and multiplied it by another, ten times bigger. Though large, it wasn’t so inconceivable that Peter would give up.

I have a feeling that if Peter’s original number had been one million, then Jesus would have said, “10,000,000 ⨉ 1,000,000 times.”

Jesus is like that. He’s patient with our limitedness. He knows our smallness and comes to meet and teach us right where we are.

 

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About the Author

Valerie Limmer is a missionary in Japan. She is neither a therapist nor a theologian, but she has experienced severe abuse from a handful of people. In Captive Set Free, she shares the principles and techniques she's learned in her own life on her journeys towards forgiveness.

Connect with Valerie by visiting valerielimmer.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of Captive Set Free and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 9, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 16, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Book Tour, Review & Giveaway: Secret of the Sonnets by Samantha Hastings

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Miranda Hatch is a scholar, and at the advanced age of twenty-six, she is undoubtedly a spinster. Her single-minded ambition leads her not to seek a husband but to find the lost manuscripts of William Shakespeare. So when she discovers a connection between the Bard and the local dashing marquess, she pens a letter requesting access to papers that might secure her academic triumph.

Lord Robert Hamilton is drowning in debt and must turn things around or risk losing his ancestral home. With the weight of the world on his shoulders, he has little time to bother with a letter from an M. Hatch requesting access to ancestral papers―until he realizes there may be some financial merit in granting the request. To his great surprise, M. Hatch turns out to be none other than the lovely Miss Miranda. The pair soon embarks on the trail of a centuries-old mystery, drawn together not only by their shared goal but by their growing attraction. However, someone else is seeking the priceless papers, and they will not hesitate to remove anyone in the way of glory.

My Review

I loved the unique plot in this book! Miranda and her father have a great love (bordering on obsession) for literature and especially all things Shakespeare. Her self-confidence is admirable, and she is comfortable with herself and finds joy and laughter in life, reminding me a bit of Elizabeth Bennett. She has a lovely family dynamic with her mother and father. They are impressed with Robert as a gentleman and although he doesn’t share their literary interests, there is a connection of congeniality and sense of humor that makes him fit right in. I enjoyed how naturally their relationship progressed. There is a sense of tension as Robert has limited time to pay the debts left by his father, and the presence of a saboteur lingers in the background, leaving the reader in suspense as to when he will meddle with our characters. I was intrigued by the details I learned about Shakespeare and couldn’t wait to see if they would actually make a discovery.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Giveaway

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Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Into the Spotlight 

Series: Finding Faith 

Author: Leslea Wahl 

Publisher: Vinspire Publishing 

Release Date: October 25, 2022 

Genre: Christian YA, adventure, mystery, romance

The devastation of a ruined summer.

The gift of a second chance. 

Can Josie learn the lessons she needs ito discover her true self? 

After a humiliating event and overwhelming peer pressure, 16-year-old Josie flees her home to spend the summer with her aunt on a South Carolina Island. Her fresh start turns into the summer of her dreams as friendships grow, romance blossoms, and a series of thefts surround her with excitement. 

However, when tragedy strikes someone close to her, Josie realizes there are more important things than her reputation. As she sets out to solve the mystery she has become entangled in, she not only realizes the importance of relying on her faith but along the way also discovers who God wants her to be.

PURCHASE LINKS: Amazon | Goodreads | Barnes & Noble

EXCERPT

“You were wonderful, Jozay.” His brown eyes peer into mine. “I wonder, would you be free tomorrow?”

“Yes.” OMG, he just asked me out!

“You can snorkel?”

“Snorkel? Sure.”

He doesn’t need to know everything. Like, the first time I tried, instead of breathing in clean air through my tube, I sucked in a bug and spit out my mouthpiece in total disgust…which resulted in me gulping in a mouthful of saltwater and choking. Luckily, he hasn’t read any of my mom’s books to know of this little incident.

I could get used to this anonymity.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslea Wahl is an award-winning author of adventurous teen mysteries. She not only writes for teens but is also an avid reviewer of Christian fiction. Her journey to become an author came through a search for value-based fiction for her own children. Leslea now strives to be an advocate for other families battling against society’s secular messages through her faith-based writing and reviews.

Connect with Leslea by visiting lesleawahl.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Into the Spotlight, bookmark, bible verse magnet, and designer soap!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 4, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 11, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Reading Challenges for 2023!

Happy New Year!

 

I'm excited to be participating in two reading challenges this year! I haven't successfully completed a year-long challenge in the past, despite my good intentions, but these two look like I'll be able to accomplish them. The graphics link to the original blog posts if you'd like to join in! I'll be sharing my progress on social media throughout the year, and will do a halfway check-in post on the blog in the summer.

 

Book Tour & Review: The Sisters of Sea View by Julie Klassen

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Some guests have come for a holiday, others for hidden reasons of their own . . .

When their father's death leaves them impoverished, Sarah Summers and her genteel sisters fear they will be forced to sell the house and separate to earn livelihoods as governesses or companions. Determined to stay together, Sarah convinces them to open their seaside home to guests to make ends meet and provide for their ailing mother. Instead of the elderly invalids they expect to receive, however, they find themselves hosting eligible gentlemen. Sarah is soon torn between a growing attraction to a mysterious Scottish widower and duty to her family.

Viola Summers wears a veil to cover her scar. When forced to choose between helping in her family's new guest house and earning money to hire a maid to do her share, she chooses the latter. She reluctantly agrees to read to some of Sidmouth's many invalids, preferring the company of a few elders with failing eyesight to the fashionable guests staying in their home. But when her first client turns out to be a wounded officer in his thirties, Viola soon wishes she had chosen differently. Her new situation exposes her scars--both visible and those hidden deep within--and her cloistered heart will never be the same.

Join the Summers sisters on the Devonshire coast, where they discover the power of friendship, loyalty, love, and new beginnings.

My Review

Julie Klassen is an auto-read author for me, and I'm so excited for a new series to devour! The Sisters of Sea View very much has the vibe of her Ivy Hill series, with a slower pace and rich details intricately weaving together the lives of her characters and immersing the reader in the setting. The story is told from multiple perspectives, and doesn't focus on one couple only, but creates an ensemble cast that I anticipate will continue throughout the rest of the books. Each sister has her own unique and vibrant personality, and I loved seeing them come into their own and develop their strengths in their new circumstances. Such a cozy read that held my interest through each page and plot development. I can't wait for the next installment!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Author Julie Klassen sends her greetings from Sidmouth, the location of her newest book, The Sisters of Sea View

Read an exclusive interview with author Julie Klassen at Austenprose

ADVANCE PRAISE

“Jane Austen fans will delight in this nimble series launch…Klassen excels at weaving her various story lines, each emphasizing the colorful qualities of her characters and allowing them the space to shine. Readers will be eager for the next installment.” —Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)


PRAISE FOR THE NOVELS OF JULIE KLASSEN

“Julie Klassen delights with a winsome love story…” —Publisher’s Weekly, on A Castaway in Cornwall

“I couldn’t put it down! It you are a historical fiction fan you need this one on your radar! It was a spooky delight full of heart. ”—Anne Mendez, The Lit B****, on Shadows of Swanford Abbey

“…a wonderfully engaging novel full of intriguing characters and storylines. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for more in the series.” —Laura Gerold, Laura’s Reviews, on The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill

About the Author

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold over a million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Goodreads

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows by S.L. Dooley

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows by S.L. Dooley, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows 

Series Realms of the Periferie #3 

Author: S.L. Dooley 

Publisher: Torn Parchment 

Release Date: December 2, 2022 

Genre: Fantasy (clean)

Darkness comes in many forms.

Raelyn is about to encounter them all. 

 

Hidden away in the Schade Catacombs, a single portal remains in Alnok. And, pushed to near defeat, Cosyn has unleashed all his forces, taking Earth to the brink of a world war. Raelyn, in the midst of her own debilitating doubt, finds a new ally. But when no one will follow, she strikes out on her own, determined to reach the catacombs and close the portal. Only then can she finally return home. 

In the far north, her mentor and guide Kade, wounded and desperate, leads a band of soldiers, also on a path to the catacombs. 

As an impenetrable darkness falls on the realm of Alnok and Earth’s annihilation seems inevitable, Raelyn finds nothing is what it seems. Her calling, her newfound skills, even her reason for being in Alnok are shrouded in uncertainty. 

But she must uncover the light in the darkness of Alnok, and her own heart, to locate and destroy Cosyn’s last link to Earth. If she fails, she will have no home to return to.

PURCHASE LINKS: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub

EXCERPT

 

Kade let out a long, slow breath. It was time to surrender what he could not control. To rest in this moment. He let go of his anxious thoughts, one by one, as though setting them adrift on the river.

Their fate in the catacombs . . .

Raelyn’s location and condition . . .

Ditimer’s betrayal . . .

The current carried each away, the water dispersing them until they were diluted and powerless.

A heat kindled in Kade’s chest. A stirring beneath the wound, deep in his heart, something in his bones. The heat flowed down his arms and to his hands. A light flickered in his palms. Pale, unnoticeable to anyone but him.

 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

S.L. Dooley is a fantasy author looking for a neverending story to go boldly through the wardrobe into another adventure. She's a wife and mother of two grown kids. She lives in Texas where she collects old books and new journals.

Connect with S.L. by visiting sldooley.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a copy of the Realms of the Periferie trilogy, tea, and a mug!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 12, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 19, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

Blog Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane by Melissa McClone

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane by Melissa McClone, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane 

Series: Hope Crossing #2 

Author: Melissa McClone 

Publisher: Independently Published 

Release Date: December 14, 2022

Genre: Sweet/Clean Contemporary Romance (Christmas/Holiday)

She’s his Christmas miracle. Now all he has to do is convince her of that…

Figure skater Tasha Ramson used to love the holidays. But with her career on the skids, she needs a break from the festive season—and Berry Lake is the perfect place to take it. Organizing a Christmas fundraiser was not on her agenda. Neither was falling for the small town’s handsome lawyer. But…she did… 

Elias Carpenter needs a break, too. Between the demands of his family firm and managing the ice show fundraiser, he’s at the end of his rope. Tasha showing up is the best thing that could’ve happened for him professionally and personally. Now, if only he could convince her to move him out of the friendzone… 

When a pesky ghost from Tasha’s past arrives to wreck her present, will she hang onto Elias when it matters most? Or will she let her happily ever after skate away forever?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

EXCERPT

“I haven’t skated since I was a teenager.”

“What’s stopping you now?” she asked.

“No idea. Especially with the money going to a good cause.”

She peered around him. “The line for skates isn’t long.”

Elias glanced over his shoulder. “That’s the shortest it’s been compared to earlier.”

“Nothing to stop you.”

“Except I might fall flat on my face.”

She couldn’t tell if he was making an excuse or not. “Everyone falls. I did this morning. No big deal.”

“You fell because of Higgins. You wouldn’t have otherwise.”

Ninety-nine percent true—because slips happened to everyone—but she wouldn’t admit that aloud. “Skate.”

He opened his mouth and then closed it. “If you’ll skate with me.”

Yes. Desire hit hard and fast. The joy coming from the rink was palpable. But self-preservation warned against it. “I…can’t.”

“Come on,” Elias urged in a playful tone. “I can tell you want to.”

Tasha did, but his recognizing that surprised her. The only problem? She hadn’t skated in public—outside of choreographing—in three years. Berry Lake might be a small town—with fewer people than Wishing Bay—but she no longer wanted to be in the limelight. Not that anyone would recognize her after quitting the sport after Worlds.

She struggled with what to say. “I do, but…”

“No buts. I don’t know what to do out there. It’s been that long.” The words rushed out. He didn’t even stop for a breath, but she discerned each one. “Follow me.”

 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

USA TODAY bestselling, award winning author Melissa McClone writes heartwarming women’s fiction and sweet contemporary romance novels for Tule Publishing Group, Harlequin Books, and Cardinal Press. She has also optioned two screenplays. When she’s not writing relatable characters and sigh-worthy happy endings, she spends her time in the rainy Pacific Northwest reading from her Kindle’s ever-growing TBR, napping with her Norwegian Elkhound and two mini panthers, and decorating her Happy Planner. Melissa graduated from Stanford University with a mechanical engineering degree, but discovered she prefers writing happily ever afters to jet engine testing and analysis.

Connect with Melissa by visiting melissamcclone.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a Christmas Mystery Prize Pack including a $10 Amazon card, a $10 Starbucks card, and Christmas items!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 14, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 21, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No shipping restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Book Tour, Review & Giveaway: My Testimeny Tree by Sierra Wilson, illustrated by Nicole Koa

 

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

About the Book

My testimony is special.

It's the spiritual things I know.

And just like a tree,

Every day I'll help it grow.

From tiny seed to strong, fruitful tree, a testimony is something that must be nurtured and cared for your whole life through. With beautiful illustrations and poetry, this story of faith helps children understand what a testimony is and how to help it thrive, bringing them closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior.

My Review

I loved this sweet book! It takes the metaphor of growing our testimony like a tree, and focuses on simple actions children (and adults!) can do to nourish spirituality. I appreciated that it defined a testimony first, as "the spiritual things I know." The illustrations are adorable, and help visualize the connection between the two parts of the metaphor. The message that a testimony is something to be developed during a process of faithful choices is vital for our children to learn. and This is a wonderful book that is perfect for young to older Primary aged children. I'll be bringing our copy to church for my daughter to read during sacrament meeting on Fast Sundays especially. My Testimony Tree would make a great gift!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

About the Author

Sierra Wilson is the author of several faith-filled picture books including I Can Be Like Jesus, The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for Me, and Standout Saints: Church History Heroes from Around the World. She currently lives in Alberta, Canada where she adores hiking, skiing, and adventuring with her husband and five children. 

 

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

 

 Giveaway

 

ENTER HERE

 

Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: Meriden Park by Julie Daines

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Meriden Park by Julie Daines, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Meriden Park 

Author: Julie Daines 

Publisher: Covenant Communications 

Release Date: December 5, 2022 

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance/Historical/Regency/Suspense

Following her childhood rescue from the gutters of Calcutta, Mary Grace’s life has been an astonishing rags-to-riches tale. The Wellings raised the half-Indian orphan with all the love and care the childless couple possessed, allowing her to grow into a beautiful and refined woman. But upon Mr. Welling’s death, it is time for Mrs. Welling to take Mary home to England―home to Meriden Park.

Despite her genial nature, Mary is received with suspicion by the villagers. For his part, however, Mr. Robert Markham is intrigued by the curious new beauty in town. Determined to make her acquaintance, he offers Mary a bargain she can’t refuse: a hot cross bun for a kiss. That seemingly innocent exchange is the first of many encounters between Robert and Mary, whose friendship blossoms into love during long walks in the privacy of Sherwood Forest. But the shadows of the forest hide a sinister secret, one Mary fears Robert might be a part of. As the mystery of the recent string of murders creeps closer and closer, Robert and Mary are drawn into a dangerous game, and unless she can unearth the truth, the couple risks losing one another forever.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 

My Review

 Robin Hood meets Regency? I'm all there for it! I can always count on Julie Daines to take me away with a wonderful story, and she really delivered with Meriden Park. The characters are unique and vibrant, with admirable strengths, and I loved getting to know them as their layers are revealed. Robert and Mary develop a friendship that provides a good foundation for a deeper relationship as they choose to trust and pursue the intrigue and get caught in the action. They have great banter which is always a pleasure to read! The story is well rounded with a variety of supporting characters that brought depth and provided suspense that moved the story along at a good pace- I didn't want to put the book down! Highly recommend to fans of retellings and sweet Regency romance!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julie Daines is an award-winning and best-selling author. She was born in Concord, Massachusetts, and was raised in Utah. She spent eighteen months living in London, where she studied and fell in love with English literature, sticky toffee pudding, and the mysterious guy who ran the kebab store around the corner.

She loves reading, writing, and watching movies—anything that transports her to another world. She picks Captain Wentworth over Mr. Darcy, firmly believes in second breakfast, and never leaves home without her vervain.

Connect with Julie by visiting juliedaines.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of book, $25 Amazon gift card, bookmark, stickers, and button.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 12, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!