Tuesday, September 13, 2022

Review: Calm in the Mountain Storm by Misty M. Beller



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

This epic journey will test his ability to protect his children—and they’re all he has left.

Missionary Elise Lane returns with her team to the Rocky Mountain native tribe they serve to discover the entire village—including the children she’s come to love—has been massacred. A fierce brave standing at the edge of the devastation has taken the only surviving child.

Goes Ahead returns home with his son to find his worst fears have come true—his entire village has been slaughtered, including his wife. Only their infant daughter has survived. But there’s no time for grief or vengeance. He must get his children across the mountains to the protection of his family.

The last thing he wants is help from the white people who’ve brought this disaster on his village, but his babe is not yet four moons old. Her hungry cries prove he can’t make this journey without the white woman already nursing a babe of her own. But she refuses to come without the rest of her group, including the opinionated missionary who thinks she knows best for his children. As winter closes in and the mountains prove treacherous beyond anything Goes Ahead can control, only a strength and love greater than his own can save his children—and the woman he’s come to love.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and adventure so intense, lives will never be the same.


My Review

I love the adventures this author takes me on! This time we have Elise and her brother Ben traveling with Lola and White Owl from the previous book in the series. It's devastating to think about the bloodshed from the massacre, but the author moves on and focuses on Goes Ahead and his challenge to take his children across the wintery mountains to the village where he was raised. The group's mission to bring the gospel to the tribes allows them the flexibility needed to travel with him and provide assistance with his nursing baby and his wiggly young son. I loved the perspective of Goes Ahead with single parenting and the struggles with his children that his wife usually dealt with. It brought a level of vulnerability to the strong warrior and opened his heart to the message of faith from his new friends. It took him a while to trust, but their actions proved the intent, and even though the journey was rocky in more ways than one, Goes Ahead and Elise deepened their relationship along the way as they relied on each other and brought out the best in each other. I especially loved the reunion with Goes Ahead's estranged family and the healing that took place.

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 other books in the Call of the Rockies series . . .







 



Monday, September 12, 2022

Review: Pumpkin Spice and Not So Nice by Becky Monson



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

If I were ever to write a memoir, it would be titled, Jenna Peterson’s Guide to Dating Emotionally Unavailable Men. I’m like a professional at it. I’m so good, I can take any dysfunctional man and turn him into Prince Charming, just in time for him to dump me and then go on to marry the next woman he dates. I’m about ready to give up on loving real men and focus on lusting over fictional men in the Turkish dramas I can’t stop devouring.

But then . . . I find a mysterious fifty-dollar bill with a handwritten note on it that was donated to my family’s pumpkin patch by accident. And wouldn’t you know it, the mystery man it belongs to is emotionally unavailable, albeit freakishly attractive. I keep telling myself to walk away, but there’s something about Aidan St. Claire that makes me want to unravel all his secrets. All I know is he sure can heat up the cozy fall nights. I can’t help but think that maybe this time I’ll get to keep Prince Charming for myself.

My Review

This was a such a fun book to get me in the mood for fall! I loved the farm and pumpkin patch setting that her family runs, with all the quirkiness and "pumpkiny" spirit. Jenna also has her own career during the week and she and Aiden spend time in other locations, but it still had a small-town vibe. Aiden is a bit of a mystery since he's so buttoned-up, and I love how he recognizes that Jenna's personality complements him so well that he feels comfortable opening up to her. She has her own baggage with past relationships that is woven into her humorous narrative, and she goes through her own realizations as she gets closer to Aiden and discovers some hard truths about herself. Because we only get Jenna's perspective in the book, it was fun to guess at Aiden's motivations and when he was attracted to her and feeling more than friendship. They have a great dynamic and I loved their chemistry. There was plenty of delicious anticipation and romantic tension which really made the book for me. I read this before its companion book, A Pumpkin and a Patch, and I was impressed that they provided a simultaneous timeline without being repetitive with dialogue, which made each book stand so well on its own.

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 companion book by Jennifer Peel . . .
 

 

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Blog Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Cowgirl's Redemption by Mindy Obenhaus

The Cowgirl's Redemption JustRead Blog + Review Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for The Cowgirl's Redemption by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

 
The Cowgirl's Redemption Title: The Cowgirl's Redemption 
Series: Hope Crossing #1 
Author: Mindy Obenhaus 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: August 23, 2022 
Genre: Christian, Contemporary Romance

She came home to make things right

Will she be given a second chance? 

Gloriana Prescott has returned to her Texas hometown to make amends—even if the townsfolk she left behind aren’t ready to forgive. But when her mother’s ranch manager, Justin Broussard, is tasked with saving the struggling rodeo so his teen daughter can compete, Gloriana sees a chance to prove she’s really changed. But can she prove to Justin, and the town, that she’s trustworthy? 
 
 
 
 

EXCERPT


The eggs and lettuce went flying, and something akin to a scream spilled out of her as the dastardly bird nailed her other leg.

How was she going to get away from this crazy thing? No one else was around except her mother and Bonnie. And not only was Mom in no shape to rescue Gloriana, they probably couldn’t even hear her inside the house.

As the rooster regrouped, his beady eyes never leaving her, she tearfully lifted a prayer. God, help me.

She’d barely finished when he charged her once more. Turning, she slammed into something hard.

Justin?

He scooped her into his arms, all the while kicking at the rooster until he’d carried her through the side gate to safety.

She could feel his heart pounding wildly beneath her fingers, saw the determination etched in his tanned face.

With one arm still snugged around her waist, he set her feet on the ground beneath the shade of an oak tree.

“Thank you.” Still trying to catch her breath, she lifted her gaze to find him staring at her, his chest rising and falling every bit as quickly as hers. And the intensity of his gaze stirred feelings Gloriana had promised herself she’d never feel again. She’d been rejected by both her father and her husband. She would not allow another man to do that ever again. So why couldn’t she bring herself to look away? 
 
 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 
Mindy Obenhaus

Award-winning author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching the Hallmark Channel.

Connect with Mindy by visiting MindyObenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
 
 

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of The Cowgirl's Redemption and $20 Amazon gift card.

The Cowgirl's Redemption JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 7, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 14, 2022. 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 except books available internationally. 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




Tuesday, September 6, 2022

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips

Cold Dead Night JustRead Blog + Review Tour 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Cold Dead Night

Title: Cold Dead Night 
Series: Brand of Justice #1 
Author: Lisa Phillips 
Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing&nbsp
Release Date: August 25, 2022 
Genre: Christian Suspense

The FBI betrayed her. Now they need her.

Private Investigator Kenna Banbury lost everything two years ago at the hands of a serial killer. From the ashes of that encounter, she’s built a life she believes in, searching for the lost and forgotten all over the western US. 

Bringing her own brand of justice.

When a series of murders drags her into an FBI investigation, Kenna finds herself back in the place where it all went wrong. Struggling to make sense of the case, Kenna’s past and present collide in a deadly plot that risks another betrayal and threatens to shatter everything she’s built. 

Kenna faces the ultimate test in this first book of a brand-new series from Lisa Phillips. 

 
 

EXCERPT

 
His question hit a little too close to home. Salt Lake was where her memories of Bradley lived, and she needed her fix. Though, she would never admit that was the reason she still came home sometimes.

“Maybe because another young woman is in the hands of a sadistic killer, and I happen to know exactly what that feels like? Enough to want to stick around and at least try to help find her.” Even if that meant watching her phone just in case she got another link via text. “Someone wants me to be part of this.”
 


 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 
Lisa Phillips

USA Today and Publisher's Weekly Bestselling Author Lisa Phillips is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London. It wasn't until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Since then she's discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Connect with Lisa by visiting authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
 

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed hardcover copy of Cold Dead Night and merch including a custom pen and chapstick. (3) additional winners will receive an ebook copy of Cold Dead Night.

Cold Dead Night JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 12, 2022. 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 except books available internationally. 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





Saturday, September 3, 2022

Review: Where Courage Calls by Janette Oke, Laurel Oke Logan



My rating: 3 stars / I liked it



Synopsis

Her courage and her heart will be tested in ways she never expected...

Beth Thatcher has spent her entire life in the safe, comfortable world of her family, her friends, and the social outings her father's wealth provides. But Beth is about to leave it all behind to accept a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. Inspired by her aunt Elizabeth, who went west to teach school several years ago, and gently encouraged by her father, Beth resolves to put her trust in God and bravely face any challenge that comes her way.

But the conditions in Coal Valley are even worse than she'd feared. A recent mining accident has left the town grieving and at the mercy of the mining company. The children have had very little prior education, and many of the locals don't even speak English. There isn't even a proper schoolhouse. In addition, Beth's heart is torn between two young men--both Mounties, one a lifelong friend and the other a kind, quiet man who comes to her aid more than once.

Despite the many challenges, Beth is determined to make a difference in the rustic frontier town. But when her sister visits from the East, reminding her of all the luxuries she's had to give up, will Beth decide to return to her privileged life as soon as the school year is over?


My Review

I enjoyed this gentle story of Beth and her adventures in teaching and pulling a mining community together. The description of everyday mundane details slowed the pace, but immersed the reader in the lives of the characters. The children are a big part of the story, and romance was definitely on the back burner. I didn't realize that Beth's story continues through the whole trilogy, so it looks like her relationship with Jarrick will deepen in the next book. There is some danger in the mountains which comes to a head in the climax of the story, changing the dynamics of the little town for the better. Beth undergoes growth through her experiences and matures in her perspective and faith.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Check out the other books in the Return to the Canadian West series . . .






Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Forgotten Memories by Penny Zeller

Forgotten Memories JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Forgotten Memories by Penny Zeller, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Forgotten Memories

Title: Forgotten Memories 
Series: Wyoming Sunrise #1 
Author: Penny Zeller 
Publisher: Maplebrook Publishing 
Release Date: August 30, 2022 
Genre: Christian Historical Romance 

Some memories are best forgotten… 

The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile. 

Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk? 

Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

 

 EXCERPT

 

“Caleb’s here to take you to the ice cream social,” Charlotte announced, with hands on her hips.

“Thank you, Charlotte.”

“I still don’t understand why you can’t just ride with us. Pa is fixing to hitch up the team within the hour. We could all ride together.”

Annie crossed the room and framed Charlotte’s face in her hands. “My dear Charlotte, someday you will understand.”

“John Mark says it’s because Caleb fancies you.”

“John Mark says that, does he?” Annie attempted to hide her embarrassment from the younger girl.

What if what he said was true?

“Yes, he does, and as you know, John Mark thinks he knows positively everything about everything.”

Annie giggled. “Charlotte, I have grown quite fond of your resplendent sense of humor.”

“It’s true. John Mark does think Caleb fancies you and stares at you all wonderstruck during supper.”

“Wonderstruck? Surely John Mark has better things to do than examine the expressions of others at the supper table.”

“I don’t know, Miss Ledbetter. You know John Mark. He’s as meddlesome as they come.”

John Mark appeared in the doorway of the home. “Are you two gonna just stand there and talk women-folk nonsense or are you gonna come outside so we can go to the ice cream social?”

“Do you see what I mean, Miss Ledbetter?” Charlotte held a hand to her forehead. “Such nonsense I have never seen, except in my own brother. Whatever shall we do with him?”


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Penny Zeller

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.

Today Penny is a multi-published author of numerous inspirational books. She is also a homeschool mom and a group fitness instructor. Her desire is to assist and nurture women into a closer relationship with Christ. 

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and camping, hiking, canoeing, biking, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball. 

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website. 

Connect with Penny by visiting pennyzeller.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Forgotten Memories and a $25 Amazon gift card.

Forgotten Memories JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 30, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 6, 2022. 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 







Friday, September 2, 2022

Book Tour & Excerpt: The Lady's Guide to Death and Deception by Katherine Cowley









Synopsis

What is a spy willing to do when both her heart and her country are at risk?

Life changes once again for British spy Miss Mary Bennet when Napoleon Bonaparte escapes from the Isle of Elba. Mary quickly departs England for Brussels, the city where the Allied forces prepare for war against the French. But shortly after her arrival, one of the Duke of Wellington's best officers is murdered, an event which threatens to break the delicate alliance between the Allies.

Investigating the murder forces Mary into precarious levels of espionage, role-playing, and deception with her new partner, Mr. Withrow-the nephew and heir of her prominent sponsor, and the spy with whom she's often at odds. Together, they court danger and discovery as they play dual roles gathering intelligence for the British. But soon Mary realizes that her growing feelings towards Mr. Withrow put her heart in as much danger as her life. And then there's another murder. Mary will need to unmask the murderer before more people are killed, but can she do so and remain hidden in the background?


Advance Praise

“Cowley manages to turn a little-liked, ignored, and stilted girl into one of my favorites of Austen's characters...This third novel of the series is her best. I laughed and I cried and cheered for Mary to succeed in her endeavors and hopefully find love at last.”— Carol Pratt Bradley, author of The Light of the Candle

“5 STARS. Just a delight!”— Wren, The Zebra Reader

“I really enjoyed this book. It is a great addition to the series. I loved that Mary is finding love in a logical way that fits her character…Highly recommend.”— Mariana, Goodreads

“I absolutely love Katherine Cowley's Mary Bennet series, and I think [The Lady’s Guide to Death and Deception] may be the best book in the series.”— Madison, Goodreads

 
Excerpt

The context:

Mary Bennet and other spies are being given further training by spymaster Lady Trafford. After several weeks of weapons training, the idea of using physical affection—such as kissing—to gather information is proposed. The very thought scandalizes Mary, but ultimately she agrees to it as a possible weapon in a spy’s arsenal. However, Mary has never kissed anyone before, and she needs practice.


The curtains had been opened, exposing the windows on both ends of the long ballroom. Lady Trafford looked at each of the men. “I need you to commit to share not a word of this to anyone. If any of you choose, for any reason, to expose any of the women here or damage their future prospects, I will personally ensure that you regret the act.”

Each of the men agreed. Lady Trafford was not a woman to be trifled with.

She listed off each of the partners for the exercise, leaving Mary and Mr. Withrow for last, so it was clear that they were partners even before she said it. Mr. Withrow looked at her with a certain wariness, and then took her arm and led her to the large windows at the far end of the ballroom. They stopped, and he released her arm. In the distance, Mary could see the ocean, or really, the English Channel. Mr. Withrow had been with her the first time she had touched the water, there, on that very shore.

“Miss Bennet,” said Mr. Withrow, looking very solemn. His eyes were a deep brown. She had never noticed that before. Of course, she did not normally look at someone like this. She only noticed eye colour when drawing, and despite creating portraits of almost everyone else at Castle Durrington, she had never drawn Mr. Withrow.

“I know, as a spy, that there can be a great amount of pressure to conform to expectations,” said Mr. Withrow. “However, if this is not something that you want to do, you should hold your ground and not do it.”

“I have made up my mind,” said Mary. “I am not unwilling.”

“Not being unwilling is not the same as being willing.”

“Do you truly want to have a debate of words?”

He considered this, but before he could respond, she stepped closer to him, and pressed her lips against his.

After a moment she pulled away. She had not expected such an abundance of physical sensation, and such a pleasant abundance at that.

It would be useful to catalogue the physical sensations associated with kissing, so she did so in her mind. Her lips tingled and felt warm. She was relatively certain that her cheeks had gone red, but she felt no embarrassment. And she felt very much alive, as if she was more awake.

“I suspect I need more practice than one kiss, if you are willing, Mr. Withrow.”

“Yes, I am willing,” he said.

This time he leaned into her, and the kiss was a little longer. Mr. Withrow smelled of leather-bound books. The fact that he was about her height was rather convenient for this sort of activity.

They pulled away again.

“That is not the sort of kiss that would cause someone to reveal secrets,” said Lady Trafford before heading in the direction of the other couples who were positioned at other spots across the ballroom.

Frankly, Mary felt it had been a very good kiss, but as she had limited experience, she supposed Lady Trafford might be right.

“Do you have any suggestions, Mr. Withrow? I assume you have much more experience at this than I.”

“I have no suggestions for you, Miss Bennet.” This might be the first time he had not criticised her when given the opportunity. “However, we could try a more…French style of kiss. That may be what my aunt is suggesting.”

“A French style?”

“Well, it involves the parting of the lips and, often, the incorporation of the tongue.” He almost seemed embarrassed at this admission. She wondered how many women he had kissed before…how many French women.

“That sounds unusual,” said Mary.

“We do not need to attempt it if you are not inclined.” He adjusted his already straight cravat.

“I think it would benefit me to practise a full range of kissing styles.”

He no longer looked solemn, but beyond that, she could not tell what he was thinking at all. She wondered if he was experiencing the same range of physical sensations. How strange to think that they might be sharing that.

She was unsure of what to do, so she waited for him to initiate the kiss.

He reached out his hand, took a lock of her hair, and tucked it behind her ear. And then he kissed her.

The kiss felt very French, and produced a whole ream of additional sensations, which, due to their number, were difficult to catalogue. Better to get lost in them than to attempt to sort them in her mind.

When they pulled away, Mary was not quite sure what to say, so she said, “Merci, Mr. Withrow. That was quite educational.”

“For me as well, Miss Bennet.”

What could he possibly mean by that? He had clearly kissed before; surely there was nothing she could teach him.

Lady Trafford approached. “Do something with your hands, Miss Bennet. You are as stiff as a board. And Henry, your posture is just as rigid.”

“I do not know what to do with my hands,” said Mary.

“Then improvise,” said Lady Trafford.

Mary looked around the ballroom, hoping it would provide some sort of inspiration. Kitty had one hand on Mr. Stanley’s chest, and one on the nape of his neck. Miss Tagore had her hands wrapped around Mr. Twamley’s back. It was almost disturbing, but Mary reassured herself that everyone in this room was only kissing and doing nothing more. To her surprise, she rather liked kissing. It was a strange sort of admission.

“Shall we attempt?” said Mr. Withrow.

He held out his hand towards her, and she placed her hand in his. And then he smiled at her. Somehow, this felt more intimate than kissing him. After a moment, she placed her other hand on his chest. She could feel the sunlight on her face. They both initiated this kiss, and soon, Mr. Withrow had wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. It was quite extraordinary, like being wrapped in a blanket next to a cosy fire.

She did not want to stop kissing him. Of course, that was a sure sign that she should stop. She pulled away and brushed imaginary dirt off her skirt.

“I think I have had sufficient practice,” said Mary.

“Very well,” said Mr. Withrow, as formally as ever. He bowed to her, and then he left the room. An irresponsible part of Mary wanted to call him back. 
 
 
About the Author

Katherine Cowley read Pride and Prejudice for the first time when she was ten years old, which started a lifelong obsession with Jane Austen. Her debut novel, The Secret Life of Miss Mary Bennet, was nominated for the Mary Higgins Clark Award. Her Mary Bennet spy series continues with the novels The True Confessions of a London Spy and The Lady’s Guide to Death and Deception. Katherine loves history, chocolate, traveling, and playing the piano, and she has taught writing classes at Western Michigan University. She lives in Kalamazoo, Michigan with her husband and three daughters.


Bonus Author Interview

Read an in-depth interview with author Katherine Cowley revealing insights into her new historical mystery novel, The Lady’s Guide to Death and Deception.