Monday, March 1, 2021

Book Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Soldier's Unexpected Family by Tanya Agler

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

The Soldier's Unexpected Family
(Heroines of Hollydale #3)
By Tanya Agler
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 230 Pages
March 1, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He had a plan…
She changed it all!

Major Aidan Murphy arrives in the charming small town of Hollydale to take full guardianship of his six-year-old nephew. Only there’s a slight problem—his vivacious, fiery co-guardian. School teacher Natalie Harrison has no intention of letting Aidan take her best friend’s heartbroken little boy away. Now Aidan must convince Natalie that blood is stronger than love…even if his heart tells him otherwise.

(Affiliate links included.)
 
Excerpt
 

A new project to sink her teeth into. Something unplanned and spontaneous to get behind. Rubbing her hands together, she headed toward the picnic table for the printout of Marisa’s plans. The sooner she evaluated her supplies, the sooner she’d have a sense of what else was possible and stop for the day. She hated to miss a minute of fun with Danny. Summer vacation was too short for her liking, although once August rolled around, she’d love the thrill and challenge of teaching twenty new students. She wouldn’t trade her job for all the fried green tomatoes in North Carolina.

She grabbed the pages and saw a black car parking alongside her mother’s. The driver’s door opened and a tall man in a blue dress shirt with rolled-up sleeves that highlighted muscular arms emerged from the car. Unlike the typical park runners in athletic shorts, tank tops and sneakers, this newcomer wore jeans paired with dark brown loafers. Sunlight glinted off his dark chestnut hair, its short length reminiscent of... He closed the car door.

There was also something familiar about the determination in his every step, but she still couldn’t place him.

The oversize manila envelope in his hand caught her eye. For a second, she worried Danny’s uncle was serving her with some sort of legal action in case he wanted to take his nephew with him once he returned stateside. Considering the uncle hadn’t been involved the past three months, she wouldn’t entertain that kind of negative thinking.

The man glanced at the envelope and headed back to his car. He must be lost. She transferred her attention to the plans. Movement caught her eye, and she looked up to find him heading straight toward her, no envelope in hand. His gaze gave the distinct impression he was looking for her. If she didn’t know better, she’d say he recognized her. However, Hollydale was a small town, and she’d have remembered anyone with his commanding presence.

 

Other Books in the Series

(Amazon affiliate links.)


About the Author


Tanya Agler remembers the first set of Harlequin books her grandmother gifted her, and she’s been in love with romance novels ever since. An award-winning author, Tanya makes her home in Georgia with her wonderful husband, their four children, and a lovable rescue beagle. When she’s not writing, Tanya loves classic movies and a good cup of tea. Visit her at www.tanyaagler.com or email her at tanyaagler@gmail.com.

Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive an ebook of The Sheriff's Second Chance and a $25 (USD) Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

Ends March 17, 2021

Grab Our Button!






Friday, February 26, 2021

Review: The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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Synopsis

Haunted by her sister's mysterious disappearance, Lucy Wilson arrives in Rowan County, Kentucky, in the spring of 1911 to work for Cora Wilson Stewart, superintendent of education. When Cora sends Lucy into the hills to act as scribe for the mountain people, she is repelled by the primitive conditions and intellectual poverty she encounters. Few adults can read and write.

Born in those hills, Cora knows the plague of illiteracy. So does Brother Wyatt, a singing schoolmaster who travels through the hills. Involving Lucy and Wyatt, Cora hatches a plan to open the schoolhouses to adults on moonlit nights. The best way to combat poverty, she believes, is to eliminate illiteracy. But will the people come?

As Lucy emerges from a life in the shadows, she finds purpose; or maybe purpose finds her. With purpose comes answers to her questions, and something else she hadn't expected: love.

Inspired by the true events of the Moonlight Schools, this standalone novel from bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher brings to life the story that shocked the nation into taking adult literacy seriously. You'll finish the last page of this enthralling story with deep gratitude for the gift of reading.


My Review

I enjoyed this gentle story of a young woman's journey of self-discovery as she blossoms in the serenity of nature with the new good people in her life. The romance is definitely on the back burner even though she has a beau in a lumber rep, a good friend in Brother Wyatt, and a young student in love with her. She is completely out of her element when she arrives, but her determination gets her through and she thrives on the feeling of making a difference in the lives of the mountain community. I loved the variety of people she befriended and interacted with, and it's neat that some were based on the lives of real people! Most of the story builds to the creation of the Moonlight Schools at the conclusion of the story, helping the reader understand how the idea came about and the vital need for and importance of literacy in the area. A fascinating slice of history that made me so appreciative of the trailblazers who worked and sacrificed for change and improvement in the lives of others.

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.



Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Book Tour, Review & Giveaway: Sons of Pemberley by Elizabeth Adams #SonsofPemberley #ElizabethAdams #HFVBTBlogTours


Sons of Pemberley: A Pride & Prejudice Reimagining by Elizabeth Adams

Publication Date: November 27, 2020
Paperback & eBook; 468 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction/Regency


What if Lady Anne Darcy was alive to meet Elizabeth Bennet?

A sweeping tale of tragedy, devotion, and betrayal—spanning over 25 years and two generations—this family saga explores the life Fitzwilliam Darcy would have had if his mother had not died young.

An up-close view of the Darcys' marriage and Fitzwilliam’s childhood ... a retelling of the circumstances that shaped the man we have come to love ... a reimagining of the friendships and relationships that formed each iconic character ... a tale of love, loss, heartbreak, and triumph—that is Sons of Pemberley.

Amazon

My Review
 
4 stars / I really liked it
 
I love a good Pride and Prejudice retelling, and this one really stands out as it delves deeper and encompasses multiple generations. I love that Darcy's mother is a main character as well as Wickham's father. Such creative storytelling as the narrative alternates between George and Anne Darcy as a young couple, and their son Fitzwilliam Darcy as a young adult meeting Elizabeth Bennet. The family dynamics we know from the original book shift as the influence of these missed characters shines light and goodness on the lives of their children. Darcy's cousin Marianne is also a fun character and adds spunk and humor to the story before Elizabeth is introduced. The family saga is not all roses though, as they deal with loss, betrayal, and disappointments. I was impressed with the direction and guidance Anne provides the people in her life, and the impact of her presence takes the characters in new directions while still providing a happy ending for our favorite couple. Highly recommend to fans of Austen and Austenesque retellings!
 
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


Elizabeth Adams is a book-loving, tango-dancing, Austen enthusiast. She loves old houses and thinks birthdays should be celebrated with trips - as should most occasions. She can often be found by a sunny window with a cup of hot tea and a book in her hand.

She writes romantic comedy and comedic drama in both historic and modern settings.

You can find more information, short stories, and outtakes at www.EAdamsWrites.com. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, February 15
Review at Probably at the Library

Tuesday, February 16
Review at Amy's Booket List

Wednesday, February 17
Interview at Austenprose
Review at Pursuing Stacie

Thursday, February 18
Excerpt at Bookish Rantings

Saturday, February 20
Review at Nursebookie

Monday, February 22
Review at Gwendalyn's Books

Tuesday, February 23
Interview at Novels Alive
Interview at Jorie Loves A Story

Wednesday, February 24
Review at Heidi Reads...
Review at Novels Alive

Giveaway

We have 2 paperbacks, 2 eBooks, and 2 Audiobook download codes up for grabs during the tour!

The giveaway is open to the US & Canada only and ends on February 24th. You must be 18 or older to enter.

Sons of Pemberley






Monday, February 22, 2021

Spotlight: Lamb of God Trailer


About The Show: This Easter, experience the power of the last week of Jesus Christ's mortal ministry as told through the widely celebrated and sacred oratorio, LAMB OF GOD. This unique concert film brings composer Rob Gardner’s work to the big screen for the first time. Join us for breathtaking performances from new soloists, a new orchestration, and a close-up view of this work that has been compared to Handel’s Messiah and Mozart’s Requiem.
 




About Rob Gardner: Rob Gardner began his musical career in high school as a member of and arranger for the a cappella band Two Five Nine. The group recorded 5 albums together and, while in college, toured around the country. From there, Rob began composing original works for film, theater and the concert stage. He is the author of a handful of stage musicals, including Blackbeard, The Price of Freedom, and 12 Princesses. Rob has also composed several sacred music oratorios. Rob is an accomplished producer and conductor and appears regularly on the concert stage conducting his works.

Rob has a bachelor's degree in Management and Entrepreneurship from Brigham Young University. He also attended the University of Southern California, doing graduate studies in the prestigious Scoring for Motion Pictures and Television program. He currently resides in Gilbert, AZ.






Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: The In-Between Place by Kat Armstrong

The In-Between Place JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The In-Between Place by Kat Armstrong, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

 

The In-Between Place

Title: The In-Between Place
Author: Kat Armstrong
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Release Date: January 5, 2021
Genre: Christian Life/Spiritual Growth

Jesus’ journey to the woman at the well in Samaria offers insights and hope for women today to make peace with the past, find hope in the present, and step into the future. 

God wants us to move toward the goodness He has planned for us. But what do we do when challenges stop our forward momentum? What’s the next step when we fall into a pit of despair with the determination knocked right out of us? 

On his way from Judea to Galilee, Jesus traveled through Samaria, a broken place everyone knew to avoid. In Samaria he stopped in Shechem, where evil had gained such a foothold of power that it eventually reigned. Yet the place once condemned as somewhere no one wanted to visit—let alone hang out in for a while—was the location of one Samaritan woman’s most hope-filled encounter with the Savior. 

The In-Between Place offers deeply important insights to anyone who feels stuck and can’t see a way forward. It is for the person who feels that if she looks left, her face will be scraped by an immovable boulder, and if she looks right, she’ll see nothing but hard to handle. It’s for the person who feels lost and is not sure she is worth the effort to be found, for the person who feels overlooked and unfulfilled. Because sometimes Jesus saves our greatest spiritual breakthroughs for our in-between places.

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

 

EXCERPT

Have you ever felt frozen in time while everyone else seems to be moving ahead at Mach speed? Like you’re the only one who’s crashed on some turn in life while the rest of the crowd speeds through detours like future thought- leaders and experts? The feeling is mutual and, I think, universal. Using text messages to poll my friends, I asked if anyone else had experienced feeling stuck—like there was no way out of their current situation and it didn’t make one ounce of sense how their family/work/church happenings were unfolding. Turns out, everyone in my life feels stuck, at least in some form or fashion.

Singles, marrieds, mothers (both single and married), widows, divorcees, stay- at- home moms, gig- economy workers, corporate executives— all the women I asked, even the ones “running in their lane,” mentioned their struggles with decision fatigue, the feeling of being overwhelmed when barraged by constant decision making.

Every single person who confided in me asked, “Is there something wrong with me?”

This is where my tendency to challenge comes into play. I’ve got to push back on these assumptions. Being stuck is normal because you are not a robot. You are a human. Part of being human is living through unwanted and unexpected change, wading through confusion, and persevering through seasons you wish were much shorter. Although my group of friends expressed concern that their in- between places corresponded with their deficiencies— a lie I wholeheartedly rejected— another pattern emerged. The whole lot of us testified to supernatural experiences with God in the middle of testing times.

Taken from “The In-Between Place” by Kat Armstrong. Copyright 2020 by Kat Armstrong. Used with permission from Thomas Nelson.


 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kat Armstrong 

Kat Armstrong has been emboldening women to be all-in for Jesus for twenty years as a speaker, Bible teacher, author, and podcast host. As cofounder of The Polished Network, a nonprofit connecting and gathering professional women to navigate career and explore faith, her mission is to create holy curiosity.

Kat holds a master of Christian education from Dallas Theological Seminary. She and her husband, Aaron, have been married for eighteen years, and live in Dallas, Texas, with their son, Caleb. They attend Dallas Bible Church, where Aaron serves as the lead pastor. 

CONNECT WITH KAT: WebsiteFacebook | Instagram | Twitter

 

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of The In-Between Place and No More Holding Back!

The In-Between Place JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 22, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 1, 2021. 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.






Friday, February 19, 2021

Friday's Featured Finds: Love in the City

I'm excited to announce a new weekly post I'll be doing on Fridays called Featured Finds! I'll be curating a list of fun products I find that go with a book I'm reading! You can find them all at my Featured Finds Amazon Idea List or click the product images below.

Right now I'm in the middle of a box set called Love in the City. The stories are romantic comedies and some of my favorite authors are contributors- Jennifer Peel, Becky Monson, Lucy McConnell, and Shari L. Tapscott! It's only 99 cents so don't miss out!

 

With 12 stories this could easily take all weekend to read, but you could also break them up and read one or two between other longer books! I personally like reading something contemporary and fun in between books that are historical or have heavier themes.

 

I've found that living and shopping in the city, a tote always comes in handy. I love this classy bookish tote by Kate Spade!


"Stack of Classics" Kate Spade New York Canvas Book Tote with Interior Pocket


Quirky enamel pins are so fun, and perfect for accessorizing your bookish tote ;) I couldn't resist this cat "Purrito". Cats are also the ideal apartment pet!


Pinsanity Cute Cat Purrito Enamel Pin


Office jobs abound in the city, and I've discovered the importance of using a wrist rest for my keyboard and mousepad. I instantly fell in love with this modern floral and bought it to replace my worn out plain black set.



Pretty mugs are a must for your hot drink of choice! During the winter I love herbal tea sweetened with a few drops of stevia. My favorite flavors are peppermint, cinnamon, peach, and raspberry.

Rose Gold Porcelain Mug, Set of Two

 

A bookshelf is essential, and I'm loving the weathered gray wood look. This one stood out to me with the black trim, I think it looks chic!


 
And lastly, a beautiful blanket to snuggle up in while reading! The recliner rocker in my front room is my favorite reading spot, but it's a faded olive green and doesn't really match the rest of the decor. I think the pom poms on this classic black throw bring an element of whimsy and design while camouflaging the chair when not in use.

Fleece Throw Blanket with Pom Pom Fringe

 

I'd love comments with feedback! Do you plan on reading Love in the City? What do you think of today's finds? What types of products would you like to see featured in future posts?

Happy reading! 

Thursday, February 18, 2021

Review: The Beloved Hope Chest by Amy Clipston


Heidi Reads... The Beloved Hope Chest by Amy Clipston

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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Synopsis

In the final installment of the Amish Heirloom series, the Fisher sisters learn the mystery behind their parents’ marriage—and about the sibling who has never been spoken of.

Mattie Fisher’s three daughters know that she’s been keeping a secret from them. With each item pulled from the beloved family hope chest, they’ve discovered a new clue about their mother’s past.

But there’s a reason Mattie has been keeping her history hidden, and she’s not sure she’s ready to reopen old wounds. Will dredging up the past change the way her children view her? Or her marriage to their father? And can she handle the pain of revisiting the memories that preceded the last few happy decades?

Mattie’s story is one of grief and learning to love again. But like the best things preserved in a hope chest, it's a story of love and redemption born out of heartache—and it's past time to share it.


My Review

Mattie's mysterious and emotion-filled past has been alluded to in the previous three books, so it was gratifying to learn what her story was and how it helped prepare her to support her daughters with their struggles. Mattie is a happily married young wife, but heartbreaking tragedy strikes not once, but twice. Her childhood friend Leroy offers her his heart and home, and while it seems to solve her problems at first, Mattie's intense grief clouds her judgement and prevents her from turning to him in her time of greatest need. I liked how their foundation of longtime friendship and Leroy's unrequited love keeps him from giving up on Mattie, and the way their other friends and family encourage him and Mattie both. A good conclusion to the Amish Heirloom series.

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


Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Of Sword and Shadow by A.L. Sowards

Of Sword and Shadow JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Of Sword and Shadow by A.L. Sowards, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

 

Of Sword and Shadow

Title: Of Sword and Shadow 
Author: A. L. Sowards
Publisher: Covenant Communications 
Release Date: February 2021
Genre: Action Adventure Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Greece, 1379 

She is known by many names, none of them her own. In truth, she is an unnamed slave, nothing more than a weapon in the hands of her owner in his attempts to provoke political mayhem. When she encounters a handsome young man while on an assignment, she thinks little of him—until he attempts to take what she has stolen. But in her line of work, failure is not an option. 

Gillen is intrigued by the mysterious woman who thwarts his mission. But when his path crosses hers again, his intrigue turns to gratitude as the thief he comes to call Eudocia saves his life. The two form a bond of friendship and join forces to wrest control from a group of ruthless rulers. But as their camaraderie blossoms into something more, Gillen and Eudocia must fight for love even as they wage war for a better future.

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

 

EXCERPT

A man lurched from one of the buildings and stumbled to the bushes. Then he vomited.

My nose twitched, and I had every intention of hurrying away. I had no desire to interact with an inebriated Catalan.

“Eudocia?”

I froze. I knew that voice. Gillen.

“I need your help. I’ve been poisoned.”

The night was growing ever darker, but light from a nearby sconce revealed perspiration on Gillen’s forehead and a red flush in his cheeks. His pupils were so dilated that the hazel had nearly disappeared, leaving only black. He limped toward me. Poisoned? That meant he had powerful enemies, and I had enough enemies without gaining new ones by interfering with a murder plot. But I couldn’t walk away, not when he needed help.


 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A. L. Sowards

A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have become Whitney Finalists and won a Whitney Award, reached the number one spot across multiple Amazon categories, received praise from the Historical Novel Society, and been loved by readers from a variety of backgrounds. She has called both Washington State and Utah home, and is now in the process of adding Alaska to the list. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She lives with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.

CONNECT WITH A. L.: WebsiteFacebook | Instagram | Twitter

 

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card and a print copy of Of Sword and Shadow!

Of Sword and Shadows JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 15, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 22, 2021. 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.