Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Book Blitz & Giveaway Day One - Scattered Legacy by Marlene M Bell

On Tour with Prism Book Tours
 
We're celebrating the release of the third book in the Annalisse series, Scattered Legacy! Today, we interview author Marlene M Bell. Next, she shares an excerpt from the book. On the final day, we learn the author's Top Ten activities for winter. Plus, there's an awesome 3-winner giveaway to enter below. Enjoy!

Scattered Legacy
(Annalissa Series #3)
By Marlene M Bell
Mystery, Christian Fiction
Paperback & ebook, 352 Pages
October 6, 2021 by Ewephoric Publishing

To outsiders, the relationship between Manhattan antiquities assessor Annalisse Drury and sports car magnate Alec Zavos must look carefree and glamorous. In reality, it’s a love affair regularly punctuated by treasure hunting, action-packed adventure, and the occasional dead body.

When Alec schedules an overseas trip to show Annalisse his mother's birthplace in Bari, Italy, he squeezes in the high-stakes business of divesting his family’s international corporation. But things go terribly wrong as murder makes its familiar reappearance in their lives – and this time it’s Alec’s disgraced former CFO who’s the main suspect.

Accompanied by friend and detective Bill Drake, Annalisse and Alec find themselves embroiled in a behind-closed-doors conspiracy that threatens the reputation and legacy of Alec’s late father – linking him to embezzlement, extortion, and the dirty business of the Sicilian Mafia. The search for the truth sends the trio straight into riddles, secrets, and an historic set of rosary beads. Annalisse leads Alec toward a discovery that is unthinkable, and events that will change their futures forever.

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Scattered Legacy Book Trailer
 

Other Books in the Series

Stolen Obsession
(Annalissa Series #1)
By Marlene M Bell
Mystery
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 294 Pages
January 12, 2018 by Ewephoric Publishing

People die, but legends live on.

New York antiquities appraiser Annalisse Drury recently lost her best friend to murder. The killer’s identity may be linked to her friend’s expensive missing bracelet—a 500-year-old artifact that carries an ancient curse, one that unleashes evil upon any who dare wear the jewelry created for the Persian royal family.

Weeks later, Annalisse sees a matching necklace at a Manhattan gallery opening. She begs the owner to destroy the cursed piece, but her pleas fall on deaf ears—despite the unnatural death that occurs during the opening. With two victims linked to the jewelry, Annalisse is certain she must act.

Desperate, Annalisse enlists the gallery owner’s son to help—even though she’s afraid he’ll break her heart. Wealthy and devastatingly handsome, with a string of bereft women in his wake, Greek playboy Alec Zavos dismisses Annalisse’s concerns—until his parents are ripped from the Zavos family yacht during their ocean voyage near Crete.

Annalisse and Alec race across two oceans to save his mother, feared dead or kidnapped. When the killer changes tactics and goes after Alec behind Annalisse’s back, can her plan to rescue Alec’s mother save them all?

(Affiliate links included.)
 
Spent Identity
(Annalissa Series #2)
By Marlene M Bell
Mystery
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 378 Pages
November 18, 2019 by Ewephoric Publishing

To find her missing aunt, she has to unearth the secrets of the past. But lies and deceit run through the very heart of their town…

What started out as a promising relationship with adventurer and tycoon Alec Zavos has fizzled into an uncertain future for antiquities expert Annalisse Drury. Returning to Walker Farm in Upstate New York to see her Aunt Kate should have been a welcome homecoming and distraction. Instead, she finds the childhood home she expected to inherit is for sale, without her permission. What’s worse, Kate’s ranch manager makes a gruesome discovery in the barn: the body of a man, dead by foul play.

Annalisse turns to Alec for help. She and her aunt shelter on his estate in the Catskills while the authorities canvass the scene. But when Kate herself disappears without a trace, Annalisse fears the worst: that one of the many secrets of her hometown has ensnared her family—a secret someone is willing to kill for to keep hidden.

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Interview with author Marlene M Bell

For those interested in exploring the subject or theme of your book, where should they start? 
 
The best place to start is at the beginning with book one, Stolen Obsession. Annalisse’s love interest is a Greek/Italian-American. With his ancestry, this gave me plenty of places to take my main characters. Book one- Greece and Turkey. Book two- upstate New York and Massachusetts. And book three- Italy. Alec comes from a wealthy background and the main character, Annalisse is more upper middle-class. This makes for an interesting comparison brewing in their relationship.

How did you become involved with the subject or theme of your book? 
 
I am of Italian ancestry, and thought characters of a similar background would be fun to research. In early drafts of the first book, Alec was not a good guy. The book was set up more like women’s fiction. By draft four, my editor recommended it would be easier to write this male character if he were a good guy instead of evil in his deeds. We altered the character, changed Stefan’s name, and I softened up the characterization.
 
What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
 
By book three, the main characters are showing their personalities and all the flaws clearly. Book one, Stolen Obsession was supposed to be a standalone book, not a series. Because there were so many sub-plots, it was decided that those plots would be additional books. It was the best thing that happened to my character, Annalisse. This also gives me time to simmer on each installment and move the couple around the globe.

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
 
 
The book takes place in Bari, Italy, my maternal grandfather’s home town. The research took me to his childhood home until he left there at the age of 16 for his trip to America. Grandpa was born in 1893 and came over by ship, entering through Ellis Island. The research gave me an opportunity to see firsthand what his life was like as a child. 

Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in Scattered Legacy? 
 
Annalisse Drury is an antiquities valuator from the Manhattan area. She is partners with her love interest’s mother, Generosa Zavos. Alec Zavos is a wealthy tycoon taking over the family sportscar business following his father’s death. (book one) His notoriety and reputation is a stumbling block for Annalisse throughout the series. Generosa Zavos is of Italian background and she is a colorful, mothering individual trying her darndest to get Alec and Annalisse married off so that she can have grandchildren. Anna isn’t sure she wants kids of her own. There is a detective friend, Bill Drake, who accompanies them on hunts for clues in various murder situations. (Books two and three.) Bradley is Alec’s chauffer and personal body guard. He is from London with a Britty quirkiness to him. Bradley goes with Anna and Alec to Italy in Scattered Legacy, as does Bill Drake. There are a few more characters that will make another resurgence in book four.

If you could spend the day with one of the characters from Scattered Legacy, who would it be? Please tell us why you chose this particular character, where you would go and what you would do. 
 
I would have to choose Bill Drake, their detective friend from Florida. He’s an unassuming person with a past that hasn’t totally been revealed yet. More on that in book four. Bill is single, thoughtful, professional and will become a good friend to Annalisse in the next book. I would like to go to his home away from home, the Florida Keys to understand how he went from being a fireman to a detective working for his friend, Alec Zavos. There’s a history and friendship with him and Alec that needs to be explored further. If I were to get Bill alone, I could quiz the heck out of him!

Can you tell us a little bit about your next books or what you have planned for the future? 
 
Book four will land Annalisse into another country, leaving Alec behind, The ending of Scattered Legacy will explain their situation in the next book. Anna will meet up with some old characters from a previous book when her trip takes her to the South Island of New Zealand. There, she will be introduced to raising sheep at a New Zealand sheep station…and she’ll get into more trouble, of course!

How long have you been writing? 
 
I started writing later in life. My first book was published in 2009, based on our experience with sheep.

Anything you would like to say to your readers and fans? 
 
If you’ve read the Annalisse series to date, you know that I like to color outside the lines. My mysteries are complicated and filled with other genre material like romance, adventure and thriller/suspense. If you’re someone who likes to be taken on a thrill ride you’ll want to stick with the series until the end. I don’t know where the end is yet, so hang on to that thought. My writing is based upon my background in raising sheep and living in a ranch environment. Alec studies to become a veterinarian, and Annalisse is brought up to appreciate livestock and ranch living, also. To those who’ve read my books, thank you for reading the series and your thoughtful reviews. I also write children’s books. If you’d like to venture into my picture book, check out: Mia and Nattie: One Great Team!

About the Author


Marlene M. Bell is an award-winning writer and acclaimed artist as well as a photographer. Her sheep landscapes grace the covers of livestock magazines such as, The Shepherd, Ranch & Rural Living, and Sheep Industry News. She has a mystery series available as well as a children's book featuring their bottle lamb, Natalie. Marlene and her husband, Gregg, reside in beautiful East Texas on a wooded ranch with their horned Dorset sheep, a large Maremma guard dog named Tia, along with Hollywood, Leo, and Squeaks, the cats that believe they rule the household—and do.

 
Tour Giveaway


GRAND PRIZE
A Nicole Miller 50 x 60 inch ultra-soft throw in neutral colors
A signed copy of Scattered Legacy by Marlene M Bell
Two (2) 18 oz. mugs. One says: GRATEFUL the other, BLESSED
Box of 15 Ghirardelli Hot Chocolate Mix

2nd place winner: A signed copy of Scattered Legacy
by Marlene M Bell
3rd place winner: A signed copy of Scattered Legacy
by Marlene M Bell

US Only
Ends January 22, 2022

 
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Saturday, January 15, 2022

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: God Is My Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

God is My Hiding Place JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for God Is My Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

God Is My Hiding Place
Title: God Is My Hiding Place 
Author: Corrie ten Boom 
Publisher: Chosen 
Release Date: October 19, 2021 
Genre: Devotional, Christian

"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest."--Corrie ten Boom

Dutch watchmaker Corrie ten Boom, with her courageous, God-fearing family, sheltered Jews from the Nazis during World War II. This led to her arrest and suffering in prison and concentration camps--as told in her bestselling book The Hiding Place. Her dramatic life story and her more than 40 other books have prepared millions to face their own future with courage--relying on God's love to forgive, overcome, heal and restore. 

Through this 40-day devotional based on Corrie's writings, you will find inspiration to strengthen your faith, re-root your soul in Christ and increase your experience of God's peace. 

Receive the courage and comfort of the Holy Spirit, and remind yourself of what Corrie ten Boom knew and lived: God is your hiding place. 

 
EXCERPT

When the worst happens in the life of a child of God, the best remains and the very best is yet to be.

I have seen many people behind closed doors in more than sixty countries. Some were behind the solid rock of hatred. But as they embraced forgiveness for themselves and chose to forgive their enemies, they were set free.

I have learned that forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hatred. It is a power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness. I saw this key unlock many bondages, including drugs and alcohol.

Self is a tight lock. I saw many who were in a type of spiritual prison because self was on the throne of their hearts. But liberation came when they invited Jesus to sit on the throne of their hearts and placed selfishness on the cross!

When we become imprisoned within ourselves, Jesus holds the answer. When we get ourself off our minds and turn our hearts to Jesus, He gives us the precise key we need to open our locked souls and set us free.

Excerpt from God is My Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom provided by Chosen Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Copyright 2021. Used by permission. 
 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Corrie ten Boom

Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983) was born in Haarlem, The Netherlands. After being arrested in 1944 for helping Jews escape the Nazi regime, Corrie spent a year during World War II in prison camps. After the war, she was invited to share her experiences in more than sixty countries and was honored by the state of Israel for her work during the war. Her life story, The Hiding Place, was originally released in 1971. In 1977, she settled in California, where she died in 1983, on her 91st birthday.

CONNECT WITH CHOSEN: Website

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of The Hiding Place and One Word for Today!

God Is My Hiding Place JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight January 11, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on January 18, 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!

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Friday, January 14, 2022

Book Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Searching for Home by Jill Weatherholt

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Searching for Home
By Jill Weatherholt
Contemporary, Inspirational Romance
Paperback & ebook, 224 Pages
December 28, 2021 by Love Inspired

When injured professional bull rider Luke Beckett returns to his hometown to recover, he doesn’t expect his B and B host and physical therapist to be his first and only love, Meg Brennan. He’s also unprepared for Meg’s adorable triplets to steal his heart. Luke’s past has him doubting he’s good enough for Meg and the children, but they might be just what the doctor ordered to help him heal…

(Affiliate links included.)
 
Excerpt

“I can pay for six weeks upfront—if that helps.”

It was as if he’d read her mind. She couldn’t do that...could she? No. That might encourage him to stay even longer. Maybe paying for a week at a time would keep his trip shorter than he planned. “That’s not necessary.” Meg pulled her cell phone from the back pocket of her skinny jeans to check the time. Her pulse quickened. “I’ve got to get the kids ready for school. Their bus will be here any minute. If you want to get settled into your room, it’s upstairs—the first door on the left. We can get you signed in later.”

“Sounds good. Thanks again. I know I’m not your first choice for a guest, but I’ll lie low and stay out of your way. In fact, once I put my bag away, I think I’ll go for a long hike in the woods. It’s a beautiful day.”

Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. If she could get a few repairs done at no cost, it would certainly help with her cash-flow issues. Just because they’d be under the same roof, it didn’t mean they’d have to see each other every second of the day. Perhaps she could get away with only seeing him at mealtimes. “If you head down toward the larger of the two barns, my brother-in-law made a nice trail. It circles the back of the property. It’s about three miles.”

“That’s exactly what I need. Thanks for the suggestion.” He picked up his luggage and ascended the stairs. At the landing, he paused and turned around, his expression solemn. “I’m sorry for leaving you.” He hesitated.

Was he waiting for her to accept his apology? The hair on the back of her neck tingled. “Let’s leave the past where it belongs.”

With that, Luke turned and headed to his room.

Excerpted from Searching for Home by Jill Weatherholt, Copyright © 2021 by Jill Weatherholt. Published by Love Inspired. 

About the Author

 
By day, Jill Weatherholt works for the City of Charlotte. At night, and on the weekend, she writes contemporary stories about love, faith and forgiveness for Harlequin Love Inspired. 
 
Raised in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., she now resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, but her heart belongs to Virginia. 
 
She holds a degree in Psychology from George Mason University and Paralegal Studies Certification from Duke University. 
 
She shares her life with her real-life hero and number one supporter. Their relationship grew on the golf course, and now they have one in their backyard. 
 
Jill believes in enjoying every moment of this journey because God has everything under control.



Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a signed print copy of Searching for Home by Jill Weatherholt and a $50 Amazon gift card (US only)

Ends January 19, 2022

 
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Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Book Tour, Review, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Siren of Sussex by Mimi Matthews




My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

Victorian high society’s most daring equestrienne finds love and an unexpected ally in her fight for independence in the strong arms of London’s most sought after and devastatingly handsome half-Indian tailor.


Evelyn Maltravers understands exactly how little she's worth on the marriage mart. As an incurable bluestocking from a family tumbling swiftly toward ruin, she knows she'll never make a match in a ballroom. Her only hope is to distinguish herself by making the biggest splash in the one sphere she excels: on horseback. In haute couture. But to truly capture London's attention she'll need a habit-maker who's not afraid to take risks with his designs—and with his heart.

Half-Indian tailor Ahmad Malik has always had a talent for making women beautiful, inching his way toward recognition by designing riding habits for Rotten Row's infamous Pretty Horsebreakers—but no one compares to Evelyn. Her unbridled spirit enchants him, awakening a depth of feeling he never thought possible.

But pushing boundaries comes at a cost and not everyone is pleased to welcome Evelyn and Ahmad into fashionable society. With obstacles spanning between them, the indomitable pair must decide which hurdles they can jump and what matters most: making their mark or following their hearts?

My Review

I started this book without reading what it was about specifically, and I immediately fell into the story and in love with the characters. Evelyn is a fascinating blend of confidence and humility, genuine to a fault, and devoted to her family. She's written off by many as a bluestocking, someone plain and not worth a second glance, but Ahmad senses right away the something special in her that makes her a true diamond. I loved their friendship which grew naturally, underlied by simmering chemistry. Ahmad's conflicted identity and his blend of ethnicities prevent him from having a sense of belonging in society, yet Evie's true vision of him helps him find that belonging with her, though it seems impossible to him with the obstacles in their path that he feels cannot change. I loved the hope Evie maintains in spite of the difficult situation, and her determination in solving problems that she has nobody else to solve. This book takes the reader behind the scenes of the working middle class and the complicated social dynamics with those above and below them on the social stepladder. The historical details delve into the gritty and eccentric, playing with but not crossing the line into content that would make me put the book down. It made me appreciate the author's research and the realistic portrayal of the variety of lives and circumstances.

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.
 
Excerpt
 
A surge of disappointment dimmed Evelyn’s smile. It occurred to her, quite suddenly, how little she knew about him.

Of course, he must have a sweetheart. Heaven’s sake, he was probably married! Just because he didn’t wear a wedding band didn’t mean he didn’t have a wife—and probably several children besides. It was none of her affair.

She turned back to the shelves. “In that case . . . What about a romance?”

“No romances,” he said darkly.

“No?” Was he one of those stuffy men who disapproved of romance novels? Many did. Even so, she’d expected better of him. A man who designed clothing so beautifully shouldn’t be averse to sentiment. “What about this one, then? Silas Marner. It only came out last year.”

Mr. Malik drew it from the shelf. It was bound in brown cloth with gilt lettering on the spine. “What’s it about?”

“An individual and his place in society. The hero of the story is a weaver. A man with no family to speak of, who keeps himself apart from his community.”

“A bit too close to home.” He returned the book to the shelf. “She needs something bright. Something to boost her spirits.”

Evelyn wondered why. Was she ill? Melancholic? Had she had some sort of disappointment? “In that case”—she reached for a Jane Austen novel—“I recommend this one.”

He took it from her, giving the title a dubious glance. “Northanger Abbey.”

“It’s Miss Austen’s satire of a Gothic novel. A vastly entertaining read. It should take her mind off whatever it is that’s troubling her.”

Mr. Malik thumbed through the pages. His expression was doubtful.

“I confess,” she said “there is a romance in the story, but it’s witty rather than mawkish. I can’t imagine she won’t enjoy it.”

“It’s still a romance.”

A cough sounded nearby, along with the thump of books being shoved back on a shelf. It was a reminder that she and Mr. Malik weren’t alone. Far from it. The shop seemed to be growing busier.

Evelyn sunk her voice. “What does she have against romance?”

“Nothing,” he replied, his tone equally low. “I just don’t want her to get any ideas.”

“Ideas about what?”

“About happily-ever-afters.”

The wide swell of Evelyn’s skirts brushed his leg. She belatedly realized that she’d drawn closer to him. That their conversation had taken on an air of intimacy. “You object to them?”

“I don’t believe in fairy tales,” he said.

She gave him an amused look. “Is that what they are?”

“In my experience.”

“How illuminating.”

“Is it?” He turned another page.

“Indeed. You’re a cynic, Mr. Malik. I wouldn’t have thought it.”

“I’m a realist.”

“Happily-ever-afters are real. For some people, at least. And even if they weren’t . . . A little romance never hurt anyone.”

His eyes lifted to hers. There was an expression in them that was hard to read. “You think not?”

Butterflies unfurled their wings in her stomach. The same feeling she’d had when she’d first touched his hand. A fluttering, breathless sensation. As if her corset had been laced too tightly. “No,” she said. And then she thought of Fenny. “Not in a novel, anyway.”

His mouth curled into the barest hint of a smile.

Once again, she had the unsettling sensation that he could read her mind. She took a step back from him. “Forgive me, but I mustn’t linger. My maid is waiting for me.”

He closed the book, clutching it in his hand. “Thank you for your help.”

“It was my pleasure. I hope your . . .” Wife? Sweetheart? “I hope she enjoys the story.”

“My cousin.”

Evelyn nearly stumbled in the process of taking another step backward. “I beg your pardon?”

“The book is for my cousin.”

His words penetrated before she could school her features. She was certain an expression of relief passed over her face.

She was equally certain that he saw it.

Heaven only knew what he must think.

“Your cousin. Well, that’s . . . that’s splendid.” Splendid? Evelyn’s eyes closed against a swell of embarrassment. She was quite ready to disappear into a hole in the earth. She took another step back. “Please convey my regards.”

His smile broadened. “I shall.”

From THE SIREN OF SUSSEX published by arrangement with Berkley, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2021 by Mimi Matthews. 

 
About the Author


Photo credit: Berkley Jove (TR)
 
USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.


Giveaway


1 winner (selected at random by Rafflecopter) receives the following:

Signed print copy of The Siren of Sussex
Horse scarf
Pewter sidesaddle brooch (made in Sussex, England!)
The Siren of Sussex tote bag
Three candles in scents: Fresh Hay, New Saddle, and Winter Ride
Box of Ahmad Tea (60 count, assorted flavors)
The Siren of Sussex bookmark

The giveaway is open from 12:01 am Pacific time 1/4/22 until 11:59pm Pacific time on 2/7/22.

The winner will be announced on Mimi's blog - mimimatthews.com – at 8:00 pm Pacific time on 2/8/22. 



Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: A Book Called You by Matthew Stephen Brown

A Book Called You JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Book Called You by Matthew Stephen Brown, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Book Called You
Title: A Book Called You 
Author: Matthew Stephen Brown 
Publisher: W Publishing / Thomas Nelson 
Release Date: October 5, 2021 
Genre: Christian Growth / Enneagram 

A biblically grounded Enneagram book that looks at the Enneagram numbers of people in the Bible so readers can discover more about themselves and gain specific wisdom about how and why they are uniquely made. 

Who am I? Everyone asks that question, no matter their age or status in life. If we truly are supposed to be real with others, shouldn’t that start with learning how to be real with ourselves? We think so. But we have to be willing to look inside and ask, "Okay, God, who am I? What is it that I don’t see about myself that you see?" A Book Called YOU will help us learn about who we are as individuals and how a biblical view of self-discovery can improve every part of our lives. 

Based on his widely successful teaching series "A Series Called You" and his personal experience using the Enneagram personality assessment tool in his marriage and other personal relationships, pastor Matt Brown offers a groundbreaking, entertaining, and heartfelt guide that highlights biblical truths alongside the Enneagram to help us better understand ourselves and how we relate to the people around us. 

 
EXCERPT

For years as a Christian pastor, I struggled to reach people for Jesus. I was on a mission. The problem was, I forgot that God was also on a mission—to reach me. And he is on a mission to reach you too!

I don’t know how you feel about yourself. There are probably some things you like, some things you hate, and some things you’ve never told anyone about. We are all a mixture of self-confidence and insecurity. I am a person who leans toward insecurity. After I became a devoted Christian in college, I still struggled with way too many issues. I loved God, and I was born again. But I felt really stuck. I was saved but still a sinner. I was found but still incredibly lost. There were things in my life I was deeply ashamed of. There were things I felt I just couldn’t share.

One of the most embarrassing things about me was my toenails. I know—not super spiritual but true. I was a soccer player all the way through college, and my feet were gross. Even when I got married, my wife loved me but hated my toenails. Isn’t that somehow true for all of us? I mean in the way that we may love someone more than anything, but if we’re honest, there are probably things about that other person that are . . . well, just gross. I would only wear sandals around people I trusted. In Southern California, where I lived, it seemed like everybody started wearing sandals in the nineties. Maybe people wore them before, but for me, I was pretty sure only Jesus wore them. I would only wear them around people I was really comfortable with. Even my closet relatives looked at my feet and were like, “Gross!” But I knew they still loved me, thank goodness.

I realized that if I ever started a church, it would be a place where people could see the very worst in me and still love me. Just as my wife loves me. Just as Jesus does. As I prayed about it, God laid on my heart the need to start a church that would be a place where people could be real, a place where they could talk about anything and everything and still be loved. A place for people to be real with themselves, with others, and with God. So I walked in obedience, and in 1997, I planted Sandals Church in Riverside, California.

When I started Sandals, I did almost everything wrong! I did everything wrong until I found something that helped me get it right.

The early problems our church experienced were due to people not being real, despite our vison and all my best efforts. So, the church and I floundered. Until I discovered the Enneagram.

It helped change the way I see myself, the way I see others and, most important, how I see God in the way the Bible had always wanted me to see Him. One thing I want you to understand as we get started is this: Jesus is the Surgeon, and the Enneagram is just a tool. When you have surgery, you don’t thank the knife—you thank the Surgeon. God used the Enneagram to cut deeply and remove so much I didn’t need. It has helped transform my life and the lives of thousands of people whom I am blessed to minister to.

The word Enneagram combines two Greek words: ennea, the number nine, and gram, which means “written,” like a telegram or Instagram. It is simply a tool that helps us understand personalities and remixes the way we approach our relationships with God and others.

The Enneagram describes nine basic personality styles that God designed. You are not a number; you are a uniquely created individual. However, the Enneagram numbers (or types) will help you better understand who you are and what drives you. It doesn’t just tell you what you tend to do; it helps you identify why you do what you do. The Enneagram gets at motivation. It helps you uncover the why.

I want you to find Jesus. Jesus wants you to find yourself. Jesus isn’t lost or confused about who He is, but you might be. The Enneagram is the best tool I’ve ever found to begin the process of being real with yourself, so you can be real with God and others.

Some of you might like your spouse again after reading this book. You might find grace to change how you view that person at work you’ve been judging instead of loving. You might have sympathy for people who are raising their kids a little bit differently from how you raise yours.

Understanding the Enneagram has helped me understand my wife. It’s helped me understand my kids. It’s helped me understand other people. And most of all, it has helped me understand myself and I believe it is going to have a powerful impact on your life as well.

Taken from “A Book Called You” by Matt Brown. Copyright 2021 by Matt Brown. Used with permission from Thomas Nelson.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Matthew Stephen Brown is the founding and lead pastor of Sandals Church in Riverside, California. Sandals Church began in 1997 when Pastor Matt and his wife, Tammy, set out to create a church where people could be real with themselves, God, and others. From its first meeting with eight people in the Browns' living room, Sandals Church has since grown to reach more than 12,000 people each weekend at eleven locations across Southern and Central California. Around the world, Sandals Church's digital content is viewed by close to 30,000 people every week.

Today, he continues to lead Sandals Church as the primary teaching pastor. In 2016, he launched The Debrief podcast, an opportunity for people to get real answers to tough questions about the Bible and Christianity. And last year, Pastor Matt and Sandals Church launched the ROGO Foundation, which exists to help save and replant dying churches and invest in up-and-coming leaders through hands-on leadership training programs at Sandals Church. Matt is passionate about the vision of authenticity and raising up the next generation of leaders for the local church. He and Tammy have three children and reside in Riverside, California.

CONNECT WITH MATTHEW: Website Facebook Instagram | Twitter

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a copy of A Book Called You!

A Book Called You JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight January 10, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on January 17, 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.






Monday, January 10, 2022

Review: Something New by Rebecca Connolly


My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

   

Synopsis

Harrison, Lord Basset, wants a simple, polite marriage of convenience. Nothing emotional or dramatic, nothing that will give him any cause for concern or strife. Arranging a match with the beautiful Miss Adelaide Dyer fits his needs perfectly, and all seems rather straightforward. Until he meets her.

Adelaide has no say in this marriage her father agreed to, but that does not mean she must submit quietly. Lord Basset might be strikingly handsome, but if he thinks to have a calm, biddable wife, he is mistaken. And as for living an uncomplicated married life in the wiles of Cornwall... Well, she would see about that.

When fire and ice come together, til death do they part, will either of them succumb to their growing attraction? Or will their mutual stubbornness keep the tension at bay?


My Review

What's not to love about a marriage of convenience story? Especially when Adelaide and Harrison are such opposites! They sure know how to push each other's buttons (which brought a good amount of humor to their interactions), but I appreciated that they respected each other and tried their best to communicate, in their own flawed ways. They are both a product of the society of their time, and have perceptions of marriage that come with it. What I loved the most is that they ultimately wanted a future of happiness and peace with each other, and worked towards that goal with all the bumps in the rocky road of a new marriage. I was definitely invested in their journey as I read. It was gratifying to see them both grow so much through the process and of course it was fun to have characters from the first story involved as well. I'm enjoying this series from one of my must-read authors!

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.

Don't miss the previous book in the Cornwall Brides series . . . 






Review: In the Waves of Tristwick by Deborah M. Hathaway


My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

What is a fisherman to do when he catches a mermaid in his net? Let her go—or fall in love?

A Regency Romance
Cornwall, 1815


As a well-respected fisherman in the Cornish seas, Trevik Honeysett provides a living for many poor families in the southwest of Cornwall. Despite the most powerful fishing companies attempting to cut off his own ability to fish, Trevik refuses to give up. However, when he discovers a mysterious, injured woman entangled in his net, things become much more complicated—especially when suspicions arise that she is, in fact, a mermaid. Knowing he might very well lose his workers to their superstitious beliefs, Trevik decides to uncover just who the woman is. The only problem is…she can’t remember.

In truth, Morvoren Hollow knows exactly who she is. She merely needs to keep her identity a secret long enough to accomplish what she’d set off to do. Fortunately, pretending to be a mermaid will keep Society away long enough to do just that. Her lie becomes harder to manage, however, as her injury takes longer to heal—and as the nosy but handsome fisherman reels closer to the truth.

The two clash head-to-head as Trevik refuses to believe Morvoren is actually a siren from the sea. But such a thing would be easier to imagine than what he finally discovers about her past. Fearful of what might happen next, Morvoren must decide her next step. She can either learn to trust again—or end up truly alone.


My Review

I was instantly hooked with the mermaid theme of this book! I love the deep connection Morvoren has to the sea, and the way it carried a mysteriously emotional vibe throughout the story. She and Trevik certainly do clash- he values honesty and doesn't trust easily, while she is acting on instinct in survival mode. It's entertaining to see them poke and prod at each other, alternately teasing and offending. They both are humbled and intrigued as they get to know one another's true selves over time as Morvoren heals in the Honeysett home and small coastal town of Tristwick. Trevik's mother and sister Poppy are so loveable and draw Morvoren into their little family, giving her the sense of home that she has been yearning for. I loved the banter between Trevik and Morvoren the most, with them fighting attraction and struggling to communicate the truth of their feelings as they grow stronger. I also enjoyed the rich historical details of life in Cornwall that this author portrays so well, making me feel immersed in the fishing livelihood of the tight-knit community. I'm so excited to read Poppy's story next!

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.
 
In the Waves of Tristwick is the fourth book in the clean Regency Cornish Romance series by Deborah M. Hathaway. Although this romance is a stand-alone novel, the books are best enjoyed when read in order.



Friday, January 7, 2022

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: His Road to Redemption by Lisa Jordan

His Road to Redemption JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for His Road to Redemption by Lisa Jordan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

His Road to Redemption
Title: His Road to Redemption 
Series: Holland Brothers 
Author: Lisa Jordan 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: December 28, 2021 
Genre: Contemporary Christian romance 

A veteran in need of a fresh start 
will get more than he bargained for… 

Veteran Micah Holland's scars go deeper than anyone knows. An inheritance from his mentor could be a new beginning—if he shares the inherited goat farm with fiercely independent Paige Watson. Now the only way they can keep the farm is to work together. But first Micah must prove he's a changed man to keep his dream and the woman he's falling for. 

 
  

EXCERPT

Paige appeared in the doorway, and it was all he could do to keep from running to her and wrapping her in his embrace. Instead, he lifted his hand and gave a little wave. “Hey.”

Without a word, she opened her arms. His chest heaved. He walked into them, wrapped his arm around her waist and buried his face into her shoulder, breathing in the floral scent of her shampoo.

“Natalie told me about your friend. I’m so sorry for your loss.” Her words whispered against his ear.

His eyes filmed as the knot in his throat tightened. All he could do was nod without sobbing into her hair.

He drew back, tipped her chin and searched her blue eyes. He lowered his head slowly and brushed a soft kiss across her lips. Her hands cradled his face as she returned the kiss. Micah tightened his hold on her, not wanting to let her go.

Her fingers slid into his hair as she slowed the kiss, then pressed her cheek to his chest.

He rested his chin on the top of her head as he willed his racing heart to return to its regular rhythm. Whatever that was when Paige was around.

“Welcome home.” Her words were muffled against the cotton fabric of his T-shirt.

Two little words.

Yet they were the best ones he’d heard in a while.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lisa Jordan

Heart, home, and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements come naturally. She writes contemporary Christian novels for Love Inspired that promise hope and happily ever after. Happily married to her own real-life hero for almost thirty-two years, Lisa and her husband have two grown sons. When she isn't writing, Lisa enjoys family time, good books, and being creative with photos, fibers, papers, and words. Learn more about her at lisajordanbooks.com.

CONNECT WITH LISA: Website Facebook Instagram | Twitter

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card, a signed copy of His Road to Redemption, and hand-stamped goat cards!

His Road to Redemption JustRead Blog Tour Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight January 3, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on January 10, 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.






Thursday, December 30, 2021

Havenlight Art Review & Discount Code



Welcome to my feature for Havenlight, a family of art companies "with the sole purpose of providing you access to the finest inspirational artists, experiences, and fine art products."

I love the quality and selection found on their website. I have ordered pictures of the temple through them before, and am thrilled to share with you two artists who depict Christ through their artwork. I chose to have "Look to God and Live" by Dan Wilson stretched on a canvas to display in my front living room. It's on a stand right now until I can find just the right frame for it. 

Most artwork on Havenlight's website can be ordered in a variety of sizes, prints or canvas, framed or unframed. The flexible options make it easy to find artwork to represent your voice and bring a special spirit to your home.

Use my special discount code COLORVIBRANT for 20% off your purchase! 

 


ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Dan Wilson 
“I want to paint images that speak to and uplift the viewer, pieces that remind them of the beauties of life, the reasons for living and loving existence. Vibrant colors and brush strokes working together with the disciplines of art to create beauty and emotion you can’t achieve in any other way.” -- Dan Wilson

Dan Wilson is an award-winning fine artist from Lehi, Utah. As a young boy Dan dove deep into art, always known as “that kid that doodles on everything”. After serving an LDS mission those artistic passions grew as he painted full time for his Major at UVU. After graduation he was taken under the wing of his mentor William Whitaker, who pushed him hard to improve his skills.

Dan Wilson paints and teaches out of his home art studio where he is supported by his beautiful wife and six children. 


Jenedy Paige
I am a realist in every sense of the word. I paint things as they exist, in the representational tradition, but also in the concepts behind my work. I am a truth teller. I love the classical approach to painting and its ability to so easily invite the viewer in. However, I also know the value abstraction, and the power it has to express things that realism cannot, and so I try to include both in my paintings. There is nothing I love more than a delicate and detailed figure on an expressive background.

My paintings begin in a journal. I record my frustrations, sorrows, joys, ambitions, hopes and then I transform those words into images. I guess you could say I very literally draw from life experience. I try to be as honest as I can in the telling, I don’t mince words. I then release the story to the canvas, and as I paint I am enabled to process the experience in a new way and to learn from it. I’m not fast, I take my time with the painting, and the lesson in it. Layer by layer I work, carefully revealing the wisdom inside.

When it comes to creating images I believe that simplicity is key. The more concise you can say something, the more powerful it is. So although my writing is usually lengthy, I look for symbols I can use, and try to condense my thoughts into a concise visual statement. I strive to find a shortcut right to the heart of the viewer, something that will strike them at first glance.

When I have taken the painting as far as I can, I return to writing. And just when I think I have dissected a particular idea, when I have learned all I could, writing usually takes it one step further. Words then become the final layer to the piece. The work and the text are then offered up together to others. I then find my experiences are not all that original, as the work strikes a familiar cord in the viewer. People often place themselves inside my work, and add their story to mine, and thus my heart and the heart of my audience connect over the canvas.