Monday, August 12, 2019

Book Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Trusting Her Heart by Tara Randel #THHTour


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

https://amzn.to/2GWHYuXTrusting Her Heart
(Meet Me at the Altar #3)
By Tara Randel
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Can a love built on lies…

…survive the truth?

Serena Stanhope fears her dark past might ruin the life she’s built as a successful shop owner. Especially when handsome Logan Masterson suddenly arrives in town asking questions about her background. He seems to have his own secrets, but the pair share an instant connection and Serena finds herself falling for Logan. He could destroy everything—or he could be the chance at love she thought she’d never have…


Excerpt


Serena pointed down. “Turned ankle.”
He kneeled down before her, his hand lightly grazing her skin as he examined the injured joint. An unwanted but undeniable shiver rushed over her. Good grief, he was only being a concerned citizen.
“I’m fine,” she told him, trying to shift away as his warm fingers palpated the bone.
“You should probably have it checked out,” he said, rising when he got the hint she didn’t want him in her personal space.
“It’s not bad. I’ve injured it before so I can tell. A little bit of ice, ibuprofen and keeping my foot up should do the trick.”
He didn’t look convinced. “You’re sure?”
“Positive.” She’d been taking care of herself for a very long time. This minor setback was no different. “What’re you doing here so early?”
“Grandmother needed a report from me. Thought I’d beat the city traffic and drive up here early.”
Was that his only reason? His unwavering attention had her guard up big-time, which was a shame. If she was going to blow her life up over a guy, Logan would make it really easy.
“Why don’t I help you get home.”
She waved him off. “It’s right here.”
He looked up. “So, you’re living over the store?”
“Yes. The apartment was empty and your grandmother was kind enough to let me move in.”
“That’s Grandmother. Always looking out for others.” His gaze caught hers, full of meaning. “That’s why I look out for her.”
Warning received. “Then we can both agree, your grandmother is special.”
His intense expression softened and a smile played around his mouth. It lit up his entire face and almost put her at ease. Almost. It was his body language that had Serena deciding to call this conversation quits.
“So, I’m going to go upstairs to get ready for work.” She inched from her position. “Thanks for checking on me.”
One dark eyebrow rose. “No way I’m going to leave you alone. I’ll follow to make sure you’re okay.”
Her inner defenses reared. “Really, go do your thing.”
He stood his ground.
“Stubborn man,” she muttered under her breath as she resumed her wobbly journey to her apartment.
“Did you say something?”
“How thoughtful of you,” she said over her shoulder.
Her reply earned her a burst of laughter.
She straightened her shoulders and gripped the railing. After only two steps, Logan swooped in beside her, his strong arm wrapped around her waist. She shot him a cool stare despite the riot going on in her stomach. He smelled way too good and was way too close for her peace of mind.
“What do you think you’re doing?”
“I can’t watch you struggle. It’s too painful.”
Her voice rose as she said, “I’m the one who twisted my ankle.”
“And I’m the person who is going to make sure you don’t fall down the stairs.”
She held back an eye roll. “I’m capable.”
“No one said you weren’t.” His voice caressed her skin as his breath wafted over her cheek.
Torture. Beautiful torture. Why did she respond to this man the way she did?





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 Schedule



Tour Giveaway


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

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

Ends August 21, 2019

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Sunday, August 11, 2019

Book Tour Grand Finale: Single Dad to the Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Single Dad to the Rescue
By Cari Lynn Webb

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

Welcome to my blog tour with Prism!

I’m thrilled to be celebrating the release of my new book, Single Dad to the Rescue, in my City by the Bay Stories with Harlequin Heartwarming. Single Dad to the Rescue is a sweet contemporary romance that brings together animal rescuer, Brooke Ellis, and paramedic, Dan Sawyer. . .



"A Single Dad to the Rescue is – true to its imprint – heartwarming and sweet. It’s the kind of story that leaves you sighing contentedly after you turn the last page, the kind that shows you that good-hearted people who put others first do still exist, the kind that reminds you that second chances sometimes show up when – and with whom – we least expect. The characters are equal parts layered, real, and compelling, and you’ll enjoy revisiting friends from previous books in the series if you’ve read those. If not, it works just as well as a standalone. A great read for animal lovers, rescuers-at-heart, and fans of sweet romance."

Remembrancy - Review

"Webb gives readers a story of healing, of finding the courage to live life to the fullest after living through the worst kind of pain, and of the blessings (and yes, sometimes challenges) of living in a community that cares."


“I saw the lights on.” He lifted several cloth shopping bags and his smile, then added, “Grocery delivery.”

Brooke wanted to close the door. His appealing half grin could disarm her if she was someone else. Someone who believed in fairy tales, storybook romance and that once-in-a-lifetime love could happen again. But she couldn’t shut the door. This was Dan, Rick’s son. And her stomach growled. “How much do I owe you?”

“I’m not interested in money.” He handed the bags to her.

EmpowerMoms - Review

"I enjoyed this sweet romance story! I liked the main characters Brooke Ellis, Dan Sawyer, his son and the grandfather. . . . Easy to read, great characters-loved it!"

Hallie Reads - Review

"Though not without its complications, Single Dad to the Rescue is a sweet addition to Webb’s series. Any reader in need of a heartwarming contemporary romance could be delighted with this book—I know I was."


"An emotional journey of life, love and growth! Cari Lynn Webb pulls at our heartstrings time and again with the latest in her City by the Bay Stories series. . . . The story is sweet with a punch of sadness and held my attention throughout. Really enjoyed the richness of the characters and the connection they shared. Highly recommend!"

Splashes of Joy - Review

"Author Cari Lynn Webb does a really good job of weaving all of the past hurts and heartaches in both Brooke and Dan’s lives taking them on a journey that will finally give them the love and life they deserve. I enjoyed the animals, and it made me realize juzy how much fires and other disasters traumatizes the lives of our fur babies. The author does a good job with discussing the pets and their feelings. As well as Dan’s son Ben and his medical issues. The entire book was very well written, and I will look for more books from this author."


"Single Dad to the Rescue is a sweet clean romance read! . . . I felt heartwarming feelings build up throughout this read. Single Dad to the Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb is a romance with life building experiences which we can all relate to in different ways."


"The thing that I loved about this book the most is the feeling of hope through out the book. . . . I love the sense of community and coming together. Dan's precious son is too adorable and I just loved the scenes with him and his friends. This book packed the feels and it's one you can easily get lost in. I'm looking forward to more from this series."


"The attention to detail and the care in which Webb describes the artfulness of healing through compassionate volunteering with rescue animals is part of what endeared me to this story. . . . This is a multi-layered story about the intersection of lives and the curious ways in which the heart leads us forward into a tomorrow that has more hope of promise than the past we're trying to outrun. I loved the way Ms Webb composed this story, how she tucks us so dearly close to her characters and their internal battles; whilst providing us with a firm understanding about life, love, loss and the second chances we must choose to embrace if we hope to aspire towards a future filled with the hopefulness of a renewed sense of purpose."


Evie’s love for the children was more than obvious. Dan’s love for his son would be just as strong. Just as protective. Ben was no doubt the reason for Dan’s white lie. Was Dan’s love only reserved for his son? Love. Where had that come from? She’d fallen in love before. The head-over-heels kind. The once-in-a-lifetime kind. She’d be too greedy to consider a second chance. Brooke reached for that invisible pause button to stop her tumbling thoughts.

A strong hand landed on Brooke’s lower back and settled as if to catch her when she fell. Brooke glanced over her shoulder. Dan stood just behind her, his smile gentle.


"First of all, this is squeaky clean romance with nothing offensive in it. [Moreover], this is a book that can be enjoyed in an evening, by the beach, on vacation…in short, it is a nice, quick read that will provide just the kind of clean romance fans of this genre crave."


"The book is a beautiful story. I especially loved all the dogs and cats in the book — also the little boy. . . . This book was my first one by the author. I enjoyed her writing very much. I definitely will read more of her books. I loved all the characters in the book so much."


"I absolutely love Cari Lynn Webb’s writing style. She is highly talented and definitely an author that is quickly becoming one of my favorites. . . . If you love clean romances, sweet boys and lovable furbabies, then this is a story for you. Webb will quickly work her way into your soul with her work and leave you a fan for life. Great job and hats off to you, Webb! Can’t wait for more."


"The novel was a cozy romantic read with likable characters and not so likable characters. I found Ben to be cute and loveable along with all of Dan's friends. The author weaves the perfect amount of drama to keep readers drawn to the story and not become overwhelmed. Overall, it was the perfect romantic beach read."

Harlie's Book - Excerpt & Review

Ben’s absolute certainty softened Dan. That was all he’d ever wanted to give Ben: a safe home. One without chaos. One with stability and love.

Brooke shifted to look at Dan.

Again, her dark brown gaze pulled him in. Her wide soulful eyes called to him. Made him want to learn everything about her. Made him want…

"Yall, I have to admit that this is the best book in the series. Yes, I’ve read the others but this one has all the feels. . . . I just really connected with everyone in the book. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Webb does next."


"I have read a lot of books in the Harlequin Heartwarming line and while they have all been good, I have to say that this book is one of my favorites. . . . Overall, this truly was a heartwarming read with a wonderful storyline that flowed at a perfect pace. The characters are compelling and for those reasons, I highly recommend, Single Dad to the Rescue."

Pause for Tales - Review

"Ben was cute and a smart kid. The animals added a nice extension for the humans to show their love. I could see just how big Brooke’s heart was. I enjoyed this second chance at love despite life’s circumstances story."


"I really loved this book, it's a really sweet romance and I absolutely loved Brooke's character, what a dynamite lady and the perfect one for Dan! I highly recommend this if you're looking for a nice, clean, sweet romance! . . . I will definitely be reading more from this author!"

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

https://amzn.to/2KsPf7JSingle Dad to the Rescue
(City by the Bay Stories #4)
By Cari Lynn Webb
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He offered her help

And he found love

Her home destroyed by a wildfire, Brooke Ellis finds temporary shelter at the home of paramedic Dan Sawyer and his young son, Ben. With the addition of Brooke and her lively fur family, Dan finds his carefully planned routine delightfully turned upside down. And his carefully guarded heart daring to trust in love again. When his ex-wife suddenly reappears, will it be Brooke to the rescue?


Other Books in the Series


About the Author


Cari Lynn Webb lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughters and assorted four-legged family members. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers. Visit her at her website.


Tour Giveaway


1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card & The Return of the Blackwell Brothers five-book series (print books to US winner, ebooks to international winner)

Open internationally
Ends August 14, 2019

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Book Tour Grand Finale: Love and Other Mistakes by Jessica Kate

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Love and Other Mistakes
By Jessica Kate

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


"I liked sooooo very much about this book. I found myself literally LOL-ing at times, to the startled reactions of those around me (on the train or at the nail salon). The author is downright hilarious, and I appreciated how she incorporated humor into some very serious topics."


Describe your book in 25 words or less.

To land her dream internship, a woman must nanny her ex-fiancé’s infant son and deal with his troubled teenage niece.

(I have five words left, so–) sassy, love/hate, comedy, drama.


"Jessica Kate has written a novel that many teens can relate to. On one level it is about relationships and forgiveness. On another level it is about God’s love for us even when we think no one loves us and the people who should care the most about us fail. . . . I would not hesitate to add this to my K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for high school age and adults."


"This is a delightfully, entertaining novel addressing the topics of love, betrayal, facing problematic situations, forgiveness and other Christian ethics."


Did you have a favorite character in this novel and who is it?

Jessica: This is a weird answer, but NICK! I know, he’s not a main character, but this teen math nerd has a Nirvana T-shirt, knows how to hot wire a car, and raises baby chickens as a surprise to cheer up his mother. He’s such a sweetie pie!

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"I really enjoyed this story of love, forgiveness, loss, and compassion. The characters are complicated and the author does a great job of describing them, how they are feeling, and moving them forward in a positive way. . . . I appreciated how they came back to their faith and trusted God to help see them through."


SLB: What inspired the idea for this story?

Jessica Kate: ​Complicated answer! The actual plot – entirely fictional. But the emotional journeys? I started writing this book at 22, working a job that didn’t lead anywhere, single, and unsure where I fit in life. I felt like I was missing out on my purpose—and so did my main character, Natalie.


"For a debut novel I thought that one was pretty impressive and I liked that author had characters from various age groups and blended them perfectly within the pages of this book. A story of family and friends and how at times we have to make sacrifices to help not only your loved ones but those who are need of help. too. . . . Overall this storyline is much more tender than I thought it would be and that's just fine with me. I like the writing of Jessica Kate and I will read more of her work."

Radiant Light - Review

"This book met all the things I adore in an inspirational rom-com. Jessica Kate handles tough subjects and real relationships well. The inspirational thread is woven throughout the book like a beautiful ribbon. I highly recommend this book."


"It was dramatic narrative interwoven with romance, forgiveness and sense of family. It was interesting to read about the challenges in Natalie, Jem and Lilli's lives and how they overcome their hardships and past. I would recommend reading it."


"In the midst of all the drama and heavy issues was just the right amount of humor to keep it a lighter and more entertaining read. . . . I personally really enjoyed it. It was still clean, just more real. As such, I could see that it could appeal also to a wider audience who might not generally prefer Christian fiction as well. This is a great, quick read that I would certainly recommend, and I cannot wait to see what Jessica Kate has in store for us next!"

I'm Into Books - Spotlight

Q. Do you write full time or do you also have another job outside of being a wonderful author?

A. I work full-time as a training developer at a small bank. It’s fun getting to use my creativity in a team context, especially when we make training videos. I like to pretend I’m Steven Spielberg 😉

Backing Books - Review

"I do think that this is a really good read. Natalie and Jem are an adorable couple, taking care of an adorable baby, and Lili is an amazingly relatable teenager. And the heavy, emotional scenes are balanced well with lighthearted moments that show the brighter side of life. There were a few moments which seemed unrealistic, but those played more into the comedic side of the story, making them easier to roll with."

Among the Reads - Spotlight

Jessica, what would you like your readers to take away from Love and Other Mistakes?

Hope! Life, family and love can all be messy and scary—but God is bigger than the mess and brings us love and joy!

Uplifting Reads - Review

"There is a lot going on in this story! . . . In a way, these problems almost made the story seem a bit more realistic, because we often get plagued with multiple life events that cause stress and chaos. Life is not pretty; it is messy. . . . I also want to point out that while this is listed as a Christian contemporary romance, you are not going to have Christianity shoved down your throat. To me it was more of a way at looking at how even Christians do not have perfect lives. But these people are, at the same time, using their faith to help them through. . . . So I think readers who are not necessarily interested in Christian romances would also enjoy this one."

Wishful Endings - Spotlight

What is one piece of advice your character, Natalie, would give us about love?

Natalie at the start of the book would bark a slightly bitter laugh and shrug, then change the subject.

Natalie at the end of the book would say that if you don’t understand how God loves you (and that your value has nothing to do with your good works or mistakes), then it’ll make your relationships much harder.

It’s when you get that clear understanding from God about your own value, then that love can more easily spill over to others.


"Natalie Groves has big dreams and hopes but, when her fiancé, Jeremy Walters, suddenly breaks up with her, she felt lost. Her father was then diagnosed with cancer, which left Natalie struggling to keep her family afloat while nursing her broken heart. With her grand plans in the rearview mirror, Natalie's relationship with God is also stilted. . . . Overall, I think it's a decent read for young adults."


"This was a good debut novel! I loved the author's writing style and voice! . . . I don't often remember quotes or make note of them, but this one really stood out to me and touched my heart. "The truth is you are far more than a job, a ministry, or even a calling. You are a person created and saved by God, no matter what your job is or what you do in life."

Overall, this is a good story."


1)What inspired you to first start writing this book?

The original seed of an idea was a story about a man and a woman who were raising a kid, but they weren’t a couple. From that I got the idea of Natalie nannying her ex-fiancé's son and it all grew from there!

I adore love/hate stories, so the idea of ex’s having to work together is one I find endlessly entertaining! :D

Splashes of Joy - Review

"This is a nice and interesting read. There is a lot going on in this story. . . . The author handles each situation going on in the story really well. . . . Overall, this debut novel is pretty good. It’s fun to read, and will keep you entertained for quite a few hours. I really think the younger generation would love this book, as in late teens and early 20’s."


"Love and Other Mistakes is a good read. It has some cute, fun, and delightful moments that made me laugh out loud. There were some tearing up moments that made me want to grab the tissues. . . . I believe it is worth a read."

https://amzn.to/2KubhHmLove and Other Mistakes
By Jessica Kate
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 352 Pages
July 30th 2019 by Thomas Nelson

Jessica Kate’s hilarious, romantic debut novel proves that some mistakes—including love—are begging to be made again and again.

Natalie Groves once had big dreams. But soon after her fiancé, Jeremy Walters, inexplicably broke off their engagement and left town, her father was diagnosed with cancer. Now tasked with keeping her family afloat, Natalie’s grand plans have evaporated . . . and God feels very far away.

Fast-forward seven years, and Jeremy is back in Charlottesville with an infant son and years of regrets. When his niece, Lili, lands on his doorstep in need of a place to stay, Jeremy needs help—and fast.

An internship opening finally presents Natalie a chance at her dream job, but she needs a second income to work around it—and the only offer available is Jeremy’s. They could be the solutions to one another’s problems, provided they don’t kill each other in the process. When they join forces, sparks fly. But they both know there’s a thin line between love and hate . . . and that love will turn out to be the best decision—or the biggest mistake—of all.

Praise for the Book

“A stunning debut . . . This tale of love and redemption will stay with you long after you've closed the book. A must-read.” —Rachel Hauck, New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress

“Witty. Charming. Heartfelt. I could go on and on about Jessica Kate’s debut novel. From its highly relatable characters to its pitch-perfect dialogue, Love and Other Mistakes is a delightful, romantic read filled with just the right amount of sass. I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud as I watched Natalie and Jem navigate their relationships, careers, and faith. Definitely one of the most enjoyable books I've read lately, and I can't wait to see what’s next from Jessica Kate!” —Melissa Tagg, Carol Award–winning author of Now and Then and Always and the Walker Family series

Love and Other Mistakes wraps a poignant and warm look at relationships within a smart, sly, and knowing comedic voice. Readers of Sally Thorne and Bethany Turner will be immediately at home with Natalie: an all-too-real heroine who balances whip-smart agency with an endearing vulnerability and whose intersection with long-lost Jeremy helps her forge a path to confidence and discover the woman she was always meant to be. Kate’s unputdownable debut recognizes that all human relationships—familial, friendship, romantic—are worth the keen eye and clever insight of her talented pen.” —Rachel McMillan, author of the Van Buren and DeLuca Mysteries

“If you’re looking for a story with sass on top of style, or a fresh voice pumped full of fun, you need to read Love and Other Mistakes. Then after you’ve enjoyed this—and I’m confident you will—make a date with whatever this exciting new author writes next!” —David Rawlings, author of The Baggage Handler

Bookstagram Tour

Find out more about the tour here.

About the Author


Australian author Jessica Kate is obsessed with sassy romances. 

She packs her novels with love, hate, and everything in between—and then nerds out over her favorite books, movies and TV in the StoryNerds podcast. When she’s not writing or discussing fiction, she’s hunting the world for the greatest pasta in existence.

Her debut novel Love and Other Mistakes releases July 2019, while A Girl’s Guide to the Outback hits shelves in January 2020.

Receive her sassy short The Kiss Dare FREE when you sign up for her newsletter at jessicakatewriting.com. StoryNerds podcast is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and at www.storynerds.podbean.com.


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Spotlight: The Enlightenment of Bees by Rachel Linden

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Enlightenment of Bees by Rachel Linden, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

https://amzn.to/2Mznv32 
Title: The Enlightenment of Bees 
Author: Rachel Linden  
Publisher: Thomas Nelson 
Release Date: July 9, 2019  
Genre: Women's Fiction

Sometimes a shattered dream leads to an amazing journey.

At twenty-six, apprentice baker Mia West has her entire life planned out: a Craftsman cottage in Seattle, a job baking at The Butter Emporium, and her first love—her boyfriend, Ethan—by her side. But when Ethan declares he “needs some space,” Mia’s carefully planned future crumbles.

Feeling adrift, Mia joins her vivacious housemate Rosie on a humanitarian trip around the world funded by a reclusive billionaire. Along with a famous grunge rock star, a Rwandan immigrant, and an unsettlingly attractive Hawaiian urban farmer named Kai, Mia and Rosie embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

From the slums of Mumbai to a Hungarian border camp during the refugee crisis, Mia’s heart is challenged and changed in astonishing ways—ways she never could have imagined. As she grapples with how to make a difference in a complicated world, Mia realizes she must choose between the life she thought she wanted and the life unfolding before her.

In a romantic adventure across the globe, The Enlightenment of Bees beautifully explores what it means to find the sweet spot in life where our greatest passions meet the world’s greatest need.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Rachel Linden is a novelist and international aid worker whose adventures in over fifty countries around the world provide excellent grist for her writing. She is the author of Ascension of Larks, Becoming the Talbot Sisters, and The Enlightenment of Bees. Currently, Rachel lives with her family in Seattle, Washington, where she enjoys creating stories about hope, courage, and connection with a hint of romance and a touch of whimsy.

CONNECT WITH RACHEL: Website | Facebook | Instagram  

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
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Friday, August 9, 2019

Review & Giveaway: A Lady's Maid by Jen Geigle Johnson



https://amzn.to/2YGSd1u

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttps://deseretbook.com/p/a-lady-s-maid?variant_id=179365-paperbackhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis


Molly O’Malley, lady’s maid to the progressive Lady Amanda Halloway, is determined to continue the life’s work of her lost love, killed in the Peterloo Massacre. But when her efforts and a trip to Lady Halloway’s charitable orphanage culminate in her own abduction, Molly’s eyes are opened to the horrifying crimes transpiring in the city’s slums. Despite the risks, she broadens her mission and is drawn ever closer to the peril all around them.

Thomas Flaherty, a footman in the Halloway household, has been with Molly from the beginning, but he fears she will never trust him with her heart. Even though her cause and happiness are of foremost importance to him, his loyal patience is tested by the fears that keep her at a distance. But with their safety on the line, Thomas is resolved to sacrifice everything for the woman he loves.

Risking their lives and their love, Molly and Thomas and a team of nobles on their side will stop at nothing to empower the powerless, no matter the personal cost.


My Review

There is amazing history in this book. The kind that I am so grateful for as a woman and try not to take for granted the sacrifices of those who paved the way for suffrage. I was glad to learn about the historical details that were new to me. Even though this book has a slow beginning as it introduces a bevy of characters, the action and suspense picks up the pace with quite a few dangerous situations- much of it due to Molly's naive recklessness. I had an overall feeling of anxiety and stress as I read, and had a difficult time connecting with the emotions of the main characters. The narrative is split between several characters, and I felt like it divided my focus. I thought the romantic moments between Molly and Thomas were wonderful, but the ones between Chloe and Annesley fell flat. Perhaps if I had read the preceding book, A Nobleman's Daughter, I would have been drawn in more.

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Thursday, August 8, 2019

Review: Wally's Misadventure by Chrys Wimer


https://amzn.to/2GU3q3u

My rating: 2 stars / It was okay

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Wally had been cooped up all winter and was ready for a great adventure! His chores came first, then after his father reminded him of the rules, Wally was off. The first rule was to never go exploring alone, but when none of Wally’s friends could go, he was determined to go anyway. Look inside to find out what Wally faces on his adventure!

My Review

I'm a huge fan of children's books and love collecting my favorites- current releases and those from my own childhood, especially those with remarkable illustrations. I enjoyed the forest setting of Wally's Misadventure and the variety of creatures he interacts with on his journey. 44 The overall feelings I got while reading the book were first of disappointment as Wally's friends are each too busy to play with him, and then of anxiety as he ventures into an unknown part of the forest alone and encounters some dangerous animals and situations. The narrative is a bit stilted, but the book is obviously written to be used as a teaching tool with children to open discussions of what to do in similar situations. Several elements of the digital illustrations are amateurish and distracted me from the story. I especially think the landscapes were too dark/intense and prevented the animals from standing out from the background.

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


Tuesday, August 6, 2019

Blog Tour, Interview & Giveaway: Out of Liberty Movie Trailer


http://outofliberty.com/



http://outofliberty.com/

Movie Synopsis

Winter 1839. LIBERTY, MISSOURI. Local jailer, Samuel Tillery (Jasen Wade) is tasked with watching Missouri's most wanted men as they await their upcoming hearing. Caught between the local Missourians' increased drive to remove the prisoners, and the prisoners' desperate efforts to survive, Tillery is pushed beyond what any lawman can endure. Based on actual recorded accounts, Out of Liberty is an intense, evocative western, with an outcome you have to see to believe.





Q&A with Movie Director Garrett Batty

Where did the concept come from for Out of Liberty?

I love a good Western, and I've wanted to do one for a while. The events at Liberty Jail involve a triangle of conflict between the jailer, the mob and the prisoners. It seemed like an intriguing plot to explore.  Amidst some of the better known occurrences were attempted jailbreaks, repeated appeals to the legal system and an impromptu court hearing. With 1830’s Missouri as a setting, it’s the perfect backdrop for a powerful western.

What is the inspiration behind the story? 

OUT OF LIBERTY is based on the true events that happened at Liberty Jail in 1839.  Mob rule and public opinion collided with religious liberties and expressions of faith.  It led to a conflict that escalated beyond what either side wanted. Today, with ever-present social media and opinionated commentators stirring up reactions and attacks toward any differing belief, the similarities felt very relevant.  Fortunately, we see in both cases, that principled individuals, dedicated to the good of society, can make a difference.

Any learning moments you want to share?

Any film presents opportunities for learning moments. Whether in the research phase, fundraising phase, production, post, or distribution, I’m always learning more and more about the process.  One lesson that relates specifically to OUT OF LIBERTY was learning to respect the humanness of whom the story is about.  Often I read historical accounts, but fail to recognize that they are written about real people, who deal with the same human hopes, dreams, faith and fears that I go through.  So I learned to not only show their actions, but to help the audience understand the human emotion that was driving their actions.  So in a moment of weakness, when Sydney Rigdon (Brock Roberts) doesn’t live up to my expectations, appreciating his humanness helps me to be more understanding of his actions.


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