Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Forever Free by Hope Toler Dougherty

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Forever Free by Hope Toler Dougherty, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Forever Free
Series: Forever #4
Author: Hope Toler Dougherty
Publisher: Scrivenings Press
Release Date: January 29, 2024
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Phoebe Sinclair combines her love of flowers and teaching to nurture a cut flower business on her grandfather’s land. She’s got her hands full growing the farm, growing her customer base, and dealing with her growing attraction to the aloof man who’s volunteered to help make her farming dream come true. 

Can she focus on her main job, or will a pair of yearning eyes and a hurting heart divert her worthy goals? 

Heath Daniels has resigned himself to a life of singleness as he watches his siblings couple up and set wedding dates. Tracking their happiness, however, is more difficult than he expected. A real struggle, in fact. 

Feeling the old troubles creep back to tempt him—troubles from the bad time when he dropped out of college to explore less-than-noble pursuits—propels him to volunteer for manual labor that leaves him exhausted at the end of every day and out of trouble. 

His additional hours of agri-business, however, lead to more struggles with an intriguing farmer. Does he have the strength to resist old temptations as well as a beautiful new one, too?  

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

 

Excerpt

“She died in a car accident spring semester my freshman year.”

Rounded eyes misted. “I’m so sorry, Heath. She must have been special. You’re still honoring her memory. That’s wonderful.”

A harsh noise exploded from his mouth. “One way to look at it, I suppose. Realizing I forgot is what put me in that spin back there. For a minute, I thought the world was over.”

“Really? That sounds—”

“Crazy? You think I’m crazy?” A vein in the side of his neck ballooned.

“No, no. Are you ... superstitious about not remembering?”

“A horrible person forgets a loved one. If I don’t have her favorite breakfast—”

“Was she a control freak when she was alive too?”

“What?” His heart slammed into his chest.

Phoebe slid toward the edge of the seat. “I mean, she’s got a hold on you still, Heath, but not in a good way.”

“You don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“But I know the difference in healthy grieving and ... something else. You scared me back there. I’ve never seen anyone change temperaments as fast as you in the barn. I didn’t know what was happening.”

“You still don’t.”

“If you want to explain, I’ll listen. If you don’t, fine, but know this—no kind, smart person—no one who grabbed your interest and your love would want her memory to cause what happened to you today.

“Honor her memory. Take flowers to her grave. Eat her favorite breakfast. If you forget, have it for dinner. I’ve watched Grandpa grieve for over a year. He has his moments, then moves on. Because life moves on.”

“You have no idea.” He shook his head.

“You’re right. I don’t. Explain it to me.”

 

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About the Author

Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master’s degree in English and taught at East Carolina University and York Technical College. Her early novels are Irish Encounter, Mars…With Venus Rising, and Rescued Hearts. Her Forever series includes her latest, Forever Free, Forever Music, Forever Home, and the novella, "A Hatteras Surprise."

Connect with Hope by visiting hopetolerdougherty.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win print copies of all 4 books in the Forever series, a $25 Amazon card, and a bookmark!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 4, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 11, 2024. Winners 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

 

Review: The Beaches and Brides Romance Collection by Cathy Marie Hake, Lynn A. Coleman, Susan Page Davis, Paige Winship Dooly, Mary Davis

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Venture along historic American shorelines, enjoying five stories that are full of adventure, challenge, and romance. In Key West a couple collides over a child’s welfare. In Washington, a captain’s wife guards a secret. In Maine, a castaway returns from the dead. In Georgia, a woman dares to man a lighthouse alone. In Virginia, a wounded soldier recoups at a seaside cottage. Watch as God works through their challenges to bring them safely to a harbor of love.

My Review

I loved the seaside settings of these historical stories. They were varied enough to hold my interest, and the romance was gentle and sweet. My favorite story was The Castaway’s Bride by Susan Page Davis, because I felt more connected to the emotions of the characters. Edward had been lost at sea and presumed dead while he and some shipmates drifted, dying one by one, until a few were marooned on an island, but only Edward survived long enough to be rescued several years later. It was easy to feel for him as he returns home, but discovers his fiancee is engaged to the cousin who took over his father's company in his place. Deborah is the fiancee's little sister who idolized him, and now that she's grown, her dynamic personality is a much better fit for him. I appreciated the complex dynamics of the relationships Edward navigated as he settled back into his place in family, work, and community.

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.

Review: One Perfect Spring by Irene Hannon

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Claire Summers is a determined, independent single mother who is doing her best to make lemonade out of the lemons life has handed her. Keith Watson is a results-oriented workaholic with no time for a social life. As the executive assistant to a local philanthropic businessman, he’s used to fielding requests for donations. But when a letter from Claire’s eleven-year-old daughter reaches his desk, everything changes. The girl isn’t asking for money, but for help finding the long-lost son of an elderly neighbor.
 

As Keith digs reluctantly into this complicated assignment, he has no idea how intertwined his life and Claire’s will become–nor how one little girl’s kindhearted request will touch so many lives and reap so many blessings.
 

Through compelling characters and surprising plot twists, Irene Hannon offers readers this tenderhearted story of family connections that demonstrates how life is like lilacs–the biggest blooms often come only after the harshest winters.

My Review

I enjoyed this gentle story about making the best of things, past regrets, second chances, and valuing what is most important. Keith and Claire don't make the best first impression of each other, but it was nice that they quickly grew friendly as they encountered one another more. While Keith is a workaholic like his boss used to be, he does always make time for his mother. David wanted to make sure Keith didn't make the same mistakes as he did- prioritizing work to support his family financially at the expense of the emotional support they needed more. Claire has been burned once and doesn't trust easily, but Haley is a bright light in the middle of all these adults with baggage and issues, helping them move forward and embrace hope. Claire's neighbor Maureen had placed her son for adoption and the journey to discover him brings Claire and Keith together as well as David and Maureen. David's daughter is on a path of healing as well, and the various perspectives of the characters brought a well-balanced harmony to the story.

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.

Review: While Love Stirs by Lorna Seilstad

My rating: 2 stars / It was okay

Synopsis

After graduating from Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery in 1910, Charlotte Gregory is ready to stir things up. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to travel, lecture, and give cooking demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution--the gas stove--and certainly doesn't mind that the gas company has hired the handsome Lewis Mathis to perform at her lectures. Lewis encourages her work, especially her crusade to introduce fresh, appetizing, nutritious food to those convalescing in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brooks is not convinced any changes should be made--especially by this outspoken young woman.

When Charlotte and Joel are coerced into planning a fund-raising gala for the hospital, will this combustible pair explode?

My Review

This book has an interesting plot and plenty of historical details, but the main characters were difficult for me to connect with. Charlotte is passionate about the craft and science of cooking, and is single-minded in meeting her goals. Her purposes are to benefit others in need, but her methods, personality, and inner thoughts come across as self-absorbed, entitled, unyielding, and judgemental. After the manner she continued to treat Joel, it didn't seem natural that he would have a friendly or romantic interest in her, especially when he is so arrogantly dismissive of her ideas. I suppose it was meant to be an enemies-to-lovers trope, but I didn't feel that the shift made sense amid their fighting and patronizing that fell short of banter. It was also disappointing the way she treated Lewis. I was most intrigued by the era of moving from wood stoves to gas lines in homes and communities.

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.

Blog Tour, Guest Post & Giveaway: Allie's Amish Family Miracle by Tracy Fredrychowski

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Allie's Amish Family Miracle by Tracy Fredrychowski, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Allie's Amish Family Miracle 
Series: The Amish Women of Lawrence County #5
Author: Tracy Fredrychowski
Publisher: The Tracer Group, LLC
Release Date: March 5, 2024
Genre: Amish Fiction

Two worlds collide when true love enters an Old Order Amish community. Can this young woman go against tradition and find happiness in forbidden love? 

Allie Mast struggles to fit into her new community. Determined to prove her family wrong, she can't help but notice how her Mennonite background and Reuben's Amish roots are causing tension between their two families. Every family has hurts and deep wounds, but the constant conflict pushes her to a place where she will do anything to get what she wants. 

Reuben Raber has no desire to take over Raber Farms & Produce. When his overbearing mother, Saloma, is set to ruin any hopes of him making a life with Allie, his faith is tested beyond measure, and he experiences a crisis of conviction.  

Can this determined couple find the courage to step out in faith and pursue peace and healing even when persecuted for their unconventional union?

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

 

Guest Post from the Author

The Sense of Peace and Serenity Greets You at Every Turn

by Tracy Fredrychowski

Embarking on my writing journey, I never anticipated the sheer joy of research accompanying it. The pleasure of traveling throughout the country looking for those little spots that reveal the true essence of Amish life has been one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever encountered.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to visit an array of different Old and New Order Amish communities. Let me take you on a little tour across just a few places I’ve visited…



Daviess County, Indiana – In every Amish community we explore, agriculture remains the cornerstone of their way of life. While the traditional methods may not sustain all as they once did for the generations before them, what struck me in the expanses of this flat rural terrain is the resourcefulness of each family. Whether through pole buildings or greenhouses, the Amish demonstrate a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit.

Augusta, Wisconsin – The rolling green hills and scenery reminded me of my hometown in Northwestern Pennsylvania. From the women's black sneakers and neatly pinned dark green dresses to the men's straw hats, suspenders, and green shirts, this community thrives through farming and lumber milling. Everywhere I looked, meticulously tended lawns, charming red barns, and pristine white clapboard houses adorned the landscape, resembling scenes straight out of a storybook.

Cashton, Wisconsin – Nestled amidst the cranberry-filled marshlands of central Wisconsin, more than two hundred Amish families have found their haven in Monroe County. Against a backdrop of picturesque farmland, it's evident that the essence of Amish life revolves around hard labor, strong family bonds, and a deep-rooted sense of community.

Hart County, Kentucky – Established in 1989, the Amish near Munfordville boasts connections to the Geauga Amish community in Ohio. Embracing a more mainstream approach, the Munfordville Amish engage with non-Amish markets. Our journey through the winding back roads of Hart County revealed many homes adorned with solar panels—a testament to their forward-thinking settlement. Munfordville and Horse Cave, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Hart County, stand as quaint towns situated halfway between Lexington, KY, and Nashville, TN.

I strongly encourage you to jump off the Interstate and embrace adventure by following the road apples (horse droppings) to Amish country.

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About the Author

Tracy Fredrychowski is a country girl, author, homesteader and everything simple living. She has a passion for writing about the simpler side of life, much like the life she lived growing up in rural Pennsylvania.

Her life has always been intertwined with the Amish, and it’s only fitting that she has a genuine passion for their simplicity, sense of community and God-centered lives. 

Growing up in Northwest Pennsylvania she spent her childhood immersed deep in Amish Country. The clip-clop of horse and buggy woke her each morning as Amish men drove past her childhood home on their way to work. As a young woman, she was traumatized by an Amish murder that involved a family member and changed her life forever. 

Even though she currently lives in South Carolina her travels take her through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin’s Amish Country every year. During those stops, she researches the communities she visits and prides herself on writing Amish fiction that truly represents the Amish culture. She considers herself very fortunate to have made friends in those communities and values the information they share and wants nothing more than to represent their lifestyle as accurately as possible. 

Connect with Tracy by visiting tracyfredrychowski.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will win a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 5, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 12, 2024. Winners 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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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

Review: Blind Trust by Sandra Orchard

My rating: 2 stars / It was okay

Synopsis

Kate Adams had no idea she was carrying counterfeit money, and she can't believe that it came from her sweet neighbor. Or that it lands her in the middle of another one of Detective Tom Parker's investigations. Determined to prove her neighbor's innocence, Kate stumbles into a pit of intrigue that is far deeper than a two-bit counterfeit operation--and strikes too close to home for comfort. As family secrets come to light, her world--and her budding romance with Tom--begin to crumble. To Kate, it's clear that she won't be safe until she uncovers all of Port Aster's secrets. But is it too late for her and Tom?

My Review

I made the mistake (again) of starting in the middle of a series. Usually it's not a big deal, but this is a continuity series that follows the same main characters, each book leading right into the next, ending with cliffhangers. This second book of the Post Aster Secrets series began without much introduction to the personalities of the characters and included an overwhelming info dump. Once I worked my way past that and got to know Kate, Tom, and others, the pace evened out. There are a few different mysteries Kate is mixed up in- local counterfeiting, neighbor issues, family issues, and community issues. Her warm-cold relationship with Tom surfaces on occasion but it definitely takes a backseat to the investigation and I wasn't feeling much chemistry. The threads of each plot wove together and I was confused along with Kate as to how or if they were related. She and Tom get them untangled by the end, but the overarching mystery that continues through the whole series made the book end on a cliffhanger. I'm glad this type of series is no longer the trend- I don't enjoy waiting a whole year for the publisher to release the next book because by that time I've lost interest.

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.

Port Aster Secrets Book One

Port Aster Secrets Book Three

Review: Women in Science Who Changed the World by Heidi Poelman, illustrated by Angie Alape

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

From the innovations of Janaki Ammal to the careful observations of Jane Goodall, Women in Science Who Changed the World is a young child’s first introduction to the diverse, extraordinary women who used their brilliant minds to change the world of science forever. Simple text and adorable illustrations tell the contributions of eight Maria Sibylla Merian, Wang Zhenyi, Mary Anning, Marie Curie, Janaki Ammal, Katherine Johnson, Jane C. Wright, and Jane Goodall.  A quote from each scientist is included on each spread along with colorful, delightful artwork.

 

 

 

 

My Review

I loved this awesome board book! It spotlights women who were a huge influence in the science world. Some names I recognized like Marie Curie, Jane Goodall, and Katherine Johnson (thanks to the movie Hidden Figures), but others I was excited to learn about as well. They explored and made advances in the fields of entomology, astronomy, paleontology, botany, oncology, mathematics, conservation, physics, chemistry, and primatology. I appreciated the wide variety of fields covered, and the diversity of the many parts of the world and eras they came from. The book is perfect for a variety of ages- the introductory words are simple enough for very young learners, and the paragraphs explaining their work will be understood by older children. The quotes are inspirational, and there is a sense of celebration and encouragement for children to find joy in the world's mysteries and explore and problem solve as these women did.

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.

Check out more books in the Little Heroes / Courageous People series . . .