Saturday, February 22, 2020

Book Tour Grand Finale: Promise for Tomorrow by Michelle De Bruin #PFTPrism

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What was your motivation behind Promise for Tomorrow? Why did you want to write it?

My motivation was to tell a story based on actual events that happened in my family. This book is dedicated to my parents. They had to make the difficult decision, just like the hero did in this story, to sell the family’s farm ground. I witnessed their sense of loss and also their triumph in the years following the sale as they remained steady in their faith and true in their relationships. I wanted to write the story because I detected much potential for the sharing of testimony to the power of faith.


"This is a great story with a sweet romance. It has plenty of heartache and hardships as well as positive uplifting situations in the story. . . . I recommend this book to others who like a good romance."


A fragment of memory returned. “Karen.”

She glanced up with a question in her eyes.

“When I woke up a few minutes ago, what did I say to you?”

She blushed. “You called me an angel.”

“Then I wasn’t seeing things.” His hazy mind was finally catching up to his vision. “I said that because of how you look right now.”


"There were a few places were the book was a bit slow but, I enjoyed the plot twists. I enjoyed the part where the kids were playing pranks with each other even though, I felt for Karen."


"Promise for Tomorrow is the first book I have read by Michelle DeBruin. . . . After reading this, I realize she has a great talent at storytelling. . . . I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean historical fiction."

Heidi Reads... - Interview

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book?

I would like readers to take away from my book the message that faith wins. Every day. All the time. This is true because God is faithful, and he carries us through trouble to the beautiful plans that he has dreamed up for our lives. When everything seems to be going wrong, or things don’t turn out the way we expect them to, we can still rest in the promises God has made to us because he will deliver and work his plan in our lives in his own good time.


"Promise for tomorrow is the second book in the series. I did not read the first book. This book is written as a stand-alone, but I would still recommend reading the first book. I plan on reading . . . Hope for Tomorrow."

Wishful Endings - Guest Post

The Top Ten Facts to Know About the Series and Characters

1. The character of Karen Millerson, the heroine, is based on my grandmother, Elizabeth Van Zante. She grew up during the 1920’s and then accomplished the completion of her college education during the depression, earning her bachelor’s degree in math and Latin. She went on to teach math at two different high schools before marrying my grandfather in 1947. . .

Pause for Tales - Review

"If you are looking for a sweet romance on the prairie look no further than Promise for Tomorrow. . . . Through it all however, Karen and Logan did make a great team. Especially all that was thrown their way. Their story made for an enjoyable read to pass the time with."


After a few moments Mama murmured, “Oh, my goodness.” Her gaze returned to him. Joy radiated on her face. “You’ve gone and fallen in love with our own dear, sweet Karen, haven’t you?”

Logan bit his lip. Never in his wildest dreams did he see things coming to this. Mama really should mind her own business more often.

“This is tremendous!”

Apparently no answer form him meant a “yes” in his household.


"I love a clean, sweet romance with obstacles that the characters must overcome and this one has plenty of obstacles and plenty of faith to get through the hard times. . . . There are characters I rooted for and some others who just annoyed me but in this book I always wanted Karen and Logan to live their best possible live because they deserved it after everything they went through."

Kimber Li - Guest Post

The Inspiration and Research for Promise for Tomorrow

*
The inspiration for this book, and for the entire Tomorrow series begins with the creation of the heroine of the story, Karen Millerson, who is a schoolteacher. She is from Chicago and has the training to teach English at a high school level. This character is based on my grandmother, Elizabeth Van Zante. She grew up during the 1920’s and then accomplished the completion of her college education during the depression, earning her a bachelor’s degree in math and Latin. She went on to teach math at two different high schools before marrying my grandfather in 1947. . .


"What a wonderful book full of faith. Michelle D Bruin has a delightful way with words that truly warms the heart. . . . If you love historical romances with a Christian background, then don't miss this amazing book. You'll find yourself lifted up as you read without even realizing it. Beautifully written Michelle!"

I'm Into Books - Guest Post

Top Ten Tips in Teaching at a Country School and Running a Dairy Farm

This list is based on the real-life experiences of the heroine and hero of the Tomorrow series, Karen Millerson and Logan De Witt.

Young women receiving their training to teach school should understand that they can only teach as single women. Marriage means the end of a career. This is because school administrators want to encourage married women to set a high priority on their own homes and families. . .


"Despite having not read the first book, I was able to get right into this one. . . . This reminded me of a more grown-up version of “Little House on The Prairie”, which is probably why I really enjoyed it. . . . Beautiful, inspiring, and timeless are just some of the words to describe this book. The cover is simple, colorful, and just gorgeous. It drew me in as if in advertising a place to stay at the farm."


What is your favorite genre to read? What about that genre draws you?

My favorite genre to read is also the genre I write in, Christian Historical Fiction. I’m drawn to this genre by the things I learn about a historical era or setting, as well as by the layers of spiritual truth written into the story. Christian fiction serves as an effective tool to demonstrate how faith shapes us and how God works in a person’s life.


"If you’re looking for a clean romance with a strong Christian theme, Promise for Tomorrow is a sweet choice. It’s not a complicated story, and the characters pride themselves on living a simple life. . . . I appreciated how the characters praised God for the positive in every situation, no matter how bleak the day looked. If you’ve read Amish fiction before, this book has a similar vibe."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Promise for Tomorrow
By Michelle De Bruin
Christian Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 290 Pages
November 19th 2019 by Mantle Rock Publishing

Living a life of faith isn’t going the way Logan and Karen hoped until some special visitors arrive and offer them their future back.

Karen Millerson dreamed of teaching high school but now finds herself boarding with a farm family and teaching country school. She is engaged to marry Logan De Witt and is getting prepared to share in ministry with him. But when she gets blamed for the tragic fire at the school, Karen’s future grows uncertain.

Logan De Witt is working to clear his family’s name with the bank. But when he breaks his leg, hindering his ability to work the farm, Logan is faced with life-changing decisions. When his best friend can’t offer the help he requested, can Logan find a way to care for his family and court Karen at the same time before his love for her destroys all of them?

(Affiliate links included.)

Other Books in the Series

Hope for Tomorrow
By Michelle De Bruin
Christian Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 294 Pages
October 23rd 2018 by Mantle Rock Publishing LLC

When Logan De Witt learns of his father’s sudden death, he returns home to the family’s dairy farm. During his stay, he discovers his mother’s struggle with finances and his younger sister’s struggle with grief. Concern for his family presses Logan to make the difficult decision to leave his career as a pastor and stay on the farm. As a way to make some extra money, he agrees to board the teacher for their local school.

Karen Millerson arrives from Chicago ready to teach high school but her position is eliminated so she accepts the role of country school teacher. Eager to put her family’s ugly past behind her, Karen begins a new career to replace the trust she lost in her own father who had been in ministry when she was a child.

Logan and Karen both sense a call from the Lord to serve him, but neither of them expected that one day they would do it together.

Can Karen learn to trust again? Will Logan lay aside his grief in exchange for God’s purpose for his life?

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Michelle De Bruin lives in Iowa with her husband and two teenage sons. She has a bachelor’s degree in Religion with a Christian Ministry emphasis, and in Music. Michelle is the spiritual services provider for an organization that offers services for people with mental and physical disabilities. She has been a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) since 2015. Michelle writes inspirational historical romance about people who live in rural communities. Characters that bring to life the delights of farm and small-town living, whispers of Dutch heritage, and Christian faith make Michelle’s stories distinct. A romantic at heart, Michelle is always on the lookout for glimpses of God’s love through the window of a good story. Her first book, Hope for Tomorrow, released in 2018. The sequel, Promise for Tomorrow, released November 2019.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a signed print copy of Promise for Tomorrow, chocolates, and a winter-themed quilted table runner (US only)
Ends February 26, 2020

Grab Our Button!






Friday, February 21, 2020

Review: The Solicitor's Son by Rachael Anderson



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttps://bookshop.org/a/1059/9781941363263http://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

At the end of her third season, Miss Sophia Gifford is firmly on the shelf. She’s determined to accept her current suitor—a man she likes but cannot love.

When her sister decides to throw an impromptu summer house party, Sophia reluctantly agrees to help. What she doesn’t realize is that her sister has plans of her own—plans that would bring a certain childhood friend back into Sophia’s life.

It’s been nearly a decade since Sophia has seen Hugh Quinton. He’s grown into a handsome, charming, and successful—yet completely unacceptable—tradesman. Her mother looks down on him, her father detests him, and society would snub him in an instant. Sophia shouldn’t even consider him. But her heart won’t listen to reason, and before long, she finds herself wondering how much she is willing to sacrifice for love.


My Review

A perfectly lovely blend of subtle humor, tender friendship, and rekindled romance! The theme of sacrifice is strong in the story- Sophia feels the pressure to sacrifice for her family by marrying for money to save the estate her father has squandered, and Hugh sacrifices by coming to the aid of the man who ruined his father and tore him from Sophia just as their friendship was on the verge of becoming more. Loyalty, regrets, social class and society strictures all come into play at the house party, which is an ideal setting for repeated and frequent interactions. I loved everything about Hugh, especially the balance of pride and humility he has with his professional success. It was fun to watch Sophia as she was drawn towards him again, and the way they realized that no matter what anyone else thought or said, they are perfect for each other.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)



Don't miss the first two books in the Serendipity series . . .


https://amzn.to/2ShiMnAhttps://amzn.to/2GKqRvM







Tuesday, February 18, 2020

Book Tour, Author Interview & Giveaway: Promise for Tomorrow by Michelle De Bruin #PFTPrism

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Promise for Tomorrow
By Michelle De Bruin
Christian Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 290 Pages
November 19th 2019 by Mantle Rock Publishing

Living a life of faith isn’t going the way Logan and Karen hoped until some special visitors arrive and offer them their future back.

Karen Millerson dreamed of teaching high school but now finds herself boarding with a farm family and teaching country school. She is engaged to marry Logan De Witt and is getting prepared to share in ministry with him. But when she gets blamed for the tragic fire at the school, Karen’s future grows uncertain.

Logan De Witt is working to clear his family’s name with the bank. But when he breaks his leg, hindering his ability to work the farm, Logan is faced with life-changing decisions. When his best friend can’t offer the help he requested, can Logan find a way to care for his family and court Karen at the same time before his love for her destroys all of them?

(Affiliate links included.)
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository


Interview with Author Michelle De Bruin

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am Michelle De Bruin. (My last name sounds like Duh Bryan). I live in Iowa in a small town with a Dutch heritage. My husband is Tom, and we have two teenage sons. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Religion with a Christian ministry emphasis, and also in Music. I’ve been a member of ACFW since 2015.

What do you do besides writing?

I am the spiritual services provider for an organization that provides services for people with physical and mental disabilities. In this role, I lead retreats, create and teach Bible lessons, write devotionals, and offer grief counseling. For fun, I like to play the piano and lead worship on Sunday mornings. 

Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters? Do you like to find visual inspiration for your characters before or during your writing process?

I do have images that help me picture my characters. When I run across models in clothing magazines or photos of actors, I cut them out and keep them in a folder. The easiest images I have to share are on this pinterest board I created of Edwardian fashion. Photos of men and women in the styles of the era help me create dimensional characters with a style accurate to the time period.  Here is the link to my pinterest board if you would like to take a look:  https://www.pinterest.com/MichelleDB40/1910-clothing-and-fashion/

What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book?

One song that inspired me while I was writing this book is the song, He is My Peace, by Dennis Allen. It is a choral arrangement, and so powerful. I found a high school choir on You Tube singing it. Here is the link if you would like to listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3ncws7o0zo

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book?

I would like readers to take away from my book the message that faith wins. Every day. All the time. This is true because God is faithful, and he carries us through trouble to the beautiful plans that he has dreamed up for our lives. When everything seems to be going wrong, or things don’t turn out the way we expect them to, we can still rest in the promises God has made to us because he will deliver and work his plan in our lives in his own good time.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?

The third book in the Tomorrow series is releasing in November of 2020. It Is titled Dreaming of Tomorrow and continues the story of the hero and heroine from this book as they build a life together.
 



Other Books in the Series

Hope for Tomorrow
By Michelle De Bruin
Christian Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 294 Pages
October 23rd 2018 by Mantle Rock Publishing LLC

When Logan De Witt learns of his father’s sudden death, he returns home to the family’s dairy farm. During his stay, he discovers his mother’s struggle with finances and his younger sister’s struggle with grief. Concern for his family presses Logan to make the difficult decision to leave his career as a pastor and stay on the farm. As a way to make some extra money, he agrees to board the teacher for their local school.

Karen Millerson arrives from Chicago ready to teach high school but her position is eliminated so she accepts the role of country school teacher. Eager to put her family’s ugly past behind her, Karen begins a new career to replace the trust she lost in her own father who had been in ministry when she was a child.

Logan and Karen both sense a call from the Lord to serve him, but neither of them expected that one day they would do it together.

Can Karen learn to trust again? Will Logan lay aside his grief in exchange for God’s purpose for his life?

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Michelle De Bruin lives in Iowa with her husband and two teenage sons. She has a bachelor’s degree in Religion with a Christian Ministry emphasis, and in Music. Michelle is the spiritual services provider for an organization that offers services for people with mental and physical disabilities. She has been a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) since 2015. Michelle writes inspirational historical romance about people who live in rural communities. Characters that bring to life the delights of farm and small-town living, whispers of Dutch heritage, and Christian faith make Michelle’s stories distinct. A romantic at heart, Michelle is always on the lookout for glimpses of God’s love through the window of a good story. Her first book, Hope for Tomorrow, released in 2018. The sequel, Promise for Tomorrow, released November 2019.


Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a signed print copy of Promise for Tomorrow, chocolates, and a winter-themed quilted table runner (US only)
Ends February 26, 2020

Grab Our Button!






Sunday, February 16, 2020

Book Tour Grand Finale: Always the One by Tara Randel #AlwaysPrism

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

. . . In Always the One, book 4 in the series, we get Derrick’s story. He lost the woman he loved years ago, but then fate brings them together. He should be excited, right? But Hannah isn’t exactly welcoming, with good reason. Still, he’s a Matthews and won’t quit until he convinces her they belong together. Will they find their happily ever after? Not only do we get that answer, but a recap of the Matthews clan as well.

I hope you enjoy Derrick and Hannah’s story.

—Tara


"This is a fast paced and well written story with a bit of romance and mystery. The characters are genuine and easy to like. I enjoyed reading Always The One, and I highly recommend it for romance readers. I look forward to more Harlequin Heartwarming tales!"


She closed her eyes and groaned. “I don’t want any more help from government agencies.”

“Then how about from an old boyfriend?”

It would be so easy to fall into his arms. Let him carry the burdens she’d been laboring with for so long. Go back to the days when the biggest decision she had to make was what color lip gloss to use or which jeans to wear. As much as she might want the reprieve, it wasn’t possible. This was her reality now. Not glamorous or flashy, but she had a good job. A few friends she trusted. Her mother would get well. She had to.


"Always the One by Tara Randel is a heartwarming story of second chances and new beginnings. . . . a perfect blend of appealing characters, romance, and light suspense. . . . I enjoyed Always the One very much and look forward to many more stories from the pen of Tara Randel."


"As Tara Randall usually does, the reader is kept eagerly turning from one page to the next in this romantic, suspense/mystery novel. . . . This is an intense, steadily flowing, poignant romance/mystery. The characters are endearing and defined well. . . . There are several twists which keeps it quite unpredictable. It is well-written and touching."


". . . a romance with a little mystery. I enjoyed how Derrick and Hannah find each other again. They were childhood sweethearts that got separated. . . . I enjoyed this book, which can be read as a stand-alone."

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“You’re unbelievable,” she muttered through clenched teeth.

“So I’ve been told.”

She blew out a breath. “Derrick, you can’t stay here.” She looked down at her finger. “It’s complicated.”

“You keep telling me that, but, put simply, I want to help.”

She met his gaze, heat flashing in her eyes. “No one asked you.”

He shrugged. “Never stopped me from inserting myself anyway.”

“Fine. Suit yourself.”


"Always the One was another great book by Tara Randel. . . . This book kept me happily wanting to read more. . . . Always the One by Tara Randel was a clean contemporary adult romance full of the ups and downs of love. If you enjoy books full of past love pushing its way back to the present then you will adore this read."


"A sweet romance full of mystery, memories and love everlasting! . . . The story line caught my attention quickly and I enjoyed watching them reconnect. . . . I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet reunion story with a hint of danger and intrigue thrown in."


"I LOVED it! . . . The characters and story drew me in right away. . . . Tara Randel did a terrific job with this one. While part of the series, this easily stands on its own. . . . Not only was this “heart-warming”, it was heart-breaking, endearing, and beautiful."

E-Romance News - Excerpt

She reached the end of the circuit, studying the grouping. As she moved closer to get a better look at one piece in particular, she noticed a couple on bicycles racing off from the group of friends. A memory flashed in her mind, reminding her of the times she and Derrick would leave their friends to ride their bikes to the beach. Truth be told, they’d had more fun when it was just the two of them, heading off on one adventure or another.

A nostalgic smile curved her lips. They’d had the best times. But that was so long ago, before events had thrown them a curveball.


"The characters in the novel were both likable and believable people. . . . Overall, I thought the novel was a nice cozy romantic read."


"I felt there was a strong balance of emotional drama combined with realistic suspense . . . What I appreciated was the quickening pace - how Randel started things off a bit slower but then gained a lot of momentum as she was disclosing how to connect Derrick with Hannah and vice versa."


"Randal has pulled me into the story from the beginning to the end and I loved the suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out who done it. . . . This is a book I highly recommend if you want an excellent read. It is chalk full of mystery, romance not too heavily overdone and second chances. I promise that it will keep you glued to wherever you are at until the book is finished. I sighed happily after it was finished."

Remembrancy - Review

"Always the One may be my favorite second chance with your first love book I’ve read yet. . . . There’s something about falling so hard and deep in love at a young age, a love that stands the test of time and separation, that gives me all the feels."


"Randel’s smooth and engaging writing style, combined with layered characters & a dose of suspense make Always the One my favorite installment of this series! Derrick and Hannah are easy to love – and so are Hannah’s mom and Hannah’s student Tommy. . . . All of this makes for a highly entertaining, charming, and sweet read you’ll enjoy from start to finish!"


"The characters are nicely developed and not always predictable. (yay!) I connected with Derrick and loved his patience most of all. Anna (Hannah) surprised me and I wasn’t as patient with her as Derrick was. I sympathized with her and Derrick both, though, and longed for them to reach their happy ever afters. . . . This is a wholesome romance with relatable characters that deal with love lost, love found, and finding a sense of belonging."

Pause for Tales - Review

"I enjoyed this story and watching Derrick pursue Hannah after all this time, to love her and want the best for her even if it meant it might not be him. That was a great sign of true love."


She tilted her head. “You weren’t serious when you said you never stopped looking for me, were you?”

He moved closer, his gaze locked on hers. “Dead serious. But my dedication only led to one disappointment after another.”

“I just…there was no one else in your life?”

He wasn’t about to admit there’d been a time when he’d almost moved on. “You’re hard to forget.” He turned to look across the room at Prescott holding court. “But I guess you had it easy getting over me.”

Splashes of Joy - Review

"The characters were realistic and there was just the right amount of mystery weaved within the romance to give this story a few Wow moments of enjoyment. This is really a sweet, clean romance. I encourage you to check out Always the One, along with the other books in the Meet Me at the Alter series by Tara Randel."

Hallie Reads - Review

"Derrick and Hannah have plenty of history to confront amidst a dose of suspense and unquestionable chemistry. It is a pleasure to see how their story occurs in Always the One, and I so enjoyed it. If you enjoy contemporary romance, like I do, I definitely recommend this book (and this series!)."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Always the One
(Meet Me at the Altar #4)
By Tara Randel
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
February 4th 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

From USA TODAY bestselling author Tara Randel

She’s the love of his life… but is he still hers?

FBI agent Derrick Matthews has finally found his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life—but she isn’t exactly happy about it! Years ago, Hannah Rawlings disappeared overnight when her family went on the run, and she blames Derrick. She tells him she’s moved on and he should, too, but Derrick fears Hannah’s still in danger. He vows to protect her—even if that means betraying her trust…again.

Affiliate link included.

Other Books in the Series


About the Author


USA Today Bestselling Author Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. Family values, mystery and, of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery.


Tour Giveaway


Prize #1: Signed print copies of The Bridal Bouquet, The Lawman’s Secret Vow, tote bag and a $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)

Prize #2: $25 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)

Ends February 19, 2020

ENTER HERE
Grab Our Button!