About the Book
Book: The Blackout Book Cub
Author: Amy Lynn Green
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: November 15, 2022
An impulsive promise to her brother before he goes off to the European Front puts Avis Montgomery in the unlikely position of head librarian in small-town Maine. Though she has never been much of a reader, when wartime needs threaten to close the library, she invents a book club to keep its doors open. The women she convinces to attend the first meeting couldn't be more different--a wealthy spinster determined to aid the war effort, an exhausted mother looking for a fresh start, and a determined young war worker.
At first, the struggles of the home front are all the club members have in common, but over time, the books they choose become more than an escape from the hardships of life and the fear of the U-boat battles that rage just past their shores. As the women face personal challenges and band together in the face of danger, they find they share more in common with each other than they think. But when their growing friendships are tested by secrets of the past and present, they must decide whether depending on each other is worth the cost.
At first, the struggles of the home front are all the club members have in common, but over time, the books they choose become more than an escape from the hardships of life and the fear of the U-boat battles that rage just past their shores. As the women face personal challenges and band together in the face of danger, they find they share more in common with each other than they think. But when their growing friendships are tested by secrets of the past and present, they must decide whether depending on each other is worth the cost.
My Thoughts
This was my first book by this author and I thought it was so very well done. You can tell that this author does her research and does it very well. She added so many important details to the story that she transported me to a time period that we only read in our history books. I will say that she captured a part of WWII that was set in the US which is not something that is very prevalent in the stories that I have read. She gives us a great fictional perspective into the war effort to keep U-boats from reaching our coast.
I really enjoyed all the characters and how the whole story is revolves not only around them but its being told by their own point of views. I really enjoyed that the storyline revolves around a book club. It is what brings these people together and truly see that they need each other in their lives. I loved the "minutes" that are taken during the book club. It gives you a clearer picture of who they really are.
The only thing missing for me in this book was an element of faith. I think it was lightly mentioned but I feel like with such an eclectic group of people there were so many opportunities to bring them to the God, the only person they could truly rely on. I know not every book is meant to be preachy and I don't mean that but I do expect it in a Christian publisher. Other than that, I thought the book was vey well written and I do look forward to reading more from this author.
If you enjoy Historical Fiction I think you should definitely grab this one.
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Amy Lynn Green has always loved history and reading, and she enjoys speaking with book clubs, writing groups, and libraries all around the country, in person and virtually. Her debut novel, Things We Didn't Say, was nominated for a 2021 Minnesota Book Award, won two Carol Awards, and received a starred review from both Booklist and Library Journal. Amy and her family make their home in Minneapolis, Minnesota. You can sign up for her newsletter on her website, amygreenbooks.com, for quarterly giveaways, writing updates, and lots of bookish fun.
Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane by Melissa McClone, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane Series: Hope Crossing #2
Author: Melissa McClone
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: December 14, 2022
Genre: Sweet/Clean Contemporary Romance (Christmas/Holiday)
She’s his Christmas miracle. Now all he has to do is convince her of that…
Elias Carpenter needs a break, too. Between the demands of his family firm and managing the ice show fundraiser, he’s at the end of his rope. Tasha showing up is the best thing that could’ve happened for him professionally and personally. Now, if only he could convince her to move him out of the friendzone…
When a pesky ghost from Tasha’s past arrives to wreck her present, will she hang onto Elias when it matters most? Or will she let her happily ever after skate away forever?
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon
My Thoughts
This was a sweet romance and perfect for a winter read! Definitely felt like I was reading a Hallmark type movie which I was all for. The characters were believable and you can't help but immediately fall for them. Tasha is trying to find her way and in doing so finds all the right things she needs. I love how the town just gives her that Christmas spirit she desperately needed!
Elias is perfect for her and although the romance does happen fast, the author did a great job at pacing it especially since this is a pretty short and quick read.
This was my first by this author but it definitely will not be my last. I have already started adding some her books to my TBR list! I would not mind reading more from Pinewood Lane and meeting these characters once more!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really enjoyed this quick and fun read!
I received a digital copy of this book through Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
USA TODAY bestselling, award winning author Melissa McClone writes heartwarming women’s fiction and sweet contemporary romance novels for Tule Publishing Group, Harlequin Books, and Cardinal Press. She has also optioned two screenplays. When she’s not writing relatable characters and sigh-worthy happy endings, she spends her time in the rainy Pacific Northwest reading from her Kindle’s ever-growing TBR, napping with her Norwegian Elkhound and two mini panthers, and decorating her Happy Planner. Melissa graduated from Stanford University with a mechanical engineering degree, but discovered she prefers writing happily ever afters to jet engine testing and analysis.
Connect with Melissa by visiting melissamcclone.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a Christmas Mystery Prize Pack including a $10 Amazon card, a $10 Starbucks card, and Christmas items!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 14, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 21, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No shipping restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
It’s that time of year when you get new planners, calendars and Bible reading plans!
If you are looking for a new Bible Planner this might be the one. I can’t tell you much about it physically as mine hasn’t arrived yet for review but here is the blurb regarding it:
The Stay True Planner is a carefully curated tool that allows you to set meaningful goals that align with your purpose and values and track your progress throughout the year.
The Stay True full-year planner is undated, so you are not limited to a particular year. In the planner, you will find lined pages for journaling, note-taking, meditating – whatever your needs are.
The Stay True full-year planner includes a free gift! A fully lined notebook to record your overflow of reflections and thoughts. Jot your ideas, journal your day-to-day experiences, write your meditations, and much more.
Your purchase will also give you access to the A.L.I.V.E. Assessment. The assessment is an essential tool that allows you to be aware of your spiritual awakening and intimacy with Christ in all areas of your life. It encourages you to set long-term and short-term goals in line with your purpose.
This company also has a Prayer Journal for teens. The last photo will show you what that looks like.
📖 Father, I Pray Teens is a 31-day prayer devotional created for teenagers. Give your teenagers the privilege of learning how to effectively communicate with God through scriptures and build a strong prayer life.
There is a giveaway for this item over on this page so go check it out 👉🏼 https://www.blessedfreebies.com/stay-true-daily-planner-father-i-pray.html
Thanks @topsyakinsiku and @frontgatem for the copy of this to review. Hopefully it will arrive soon!
The Explorer Bible has so many features for kids to interact with God’s word and learn so much! Swipe the photo to see inside.
My second kiddo (pictured here) enjoys it because there are colorful pictures he can look at while reading. There are also QR codes that will have videos or activities for you to do with your kiddo at home or church!
This would make a great gift for that special kiddo in your life!
🛍️ You can gran your copy here 👉🏼 http://bit.ly/3tsrPp3
And enter the giveaway for a change to win one: https://www.blessedfreebies.com/explorer-bible-for-kids.html
Thank you @frontgatem and @christianstandardbible for a copy to review. Our family is really enjoying it!
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Loving God, Loving Others 52 Devotions to Create Connections That Last~ Book Review
December 9, 2022
My Thoughts
If you are looking for a new devotional for the upcoming year you may want to check this one. It is a yearly devotional book that is broken apart in 6 parts. I’m it you will work on your relationship with God, Yourself, Where You Came from, Family, Friends and Your Calling.
The devotional is easy to read and the author writes like she is talking to you. At the end of every chapter there is Bible reading and questions to reflect. This devotional is made by a group of Catholic ladies and while I am not Catholic I didn't see any mention of saints or anything that would go against my religious beliefs as a Christian.
It would definitely make a great Christmas gift!
The devotional is easy to read and the author writes like she is talking to you. At the end of every chapter there is Bible reading and questions to reflect. This devotional is made by a group of Catholic ladies and while I am not Catholic I didn't see any mention of saints or anything that would go against my religious beliefs as a Christian.
It would definitely make a great Christmas gift!
About the Book
Author: Hallee Bridgeman
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Series: Love and Honor, Book 3
Release Date: November 1, 2022
Publisher: Revell
When she was just five years old, Melissa Braxton watched her father take her mother's life. Separated from her sister, Lola, at that time, Melissa grew up with a strong desire to help those stuck in abusive relationships. It's why she became a family therapist and opened a domestic abuse shelter.
After losing a leg to a gunshot wound in the line of duty, Phil Osbourne has felt like a man without a purpose--until he hears Melissa's story and decides to use his Special Forces contacts to track down her missing sister. He knows what he discovers will break Melissa's heart. What he doesn't realize is that helping the women reunite will bring the cartel down on them like the Category 5 hurricane striking Miami.
Bruised yet not quite broken, Melissa and Phil battle the storm and the cartel, calling on strength they didn't know they had to escape death, save the innocent, and--just maybe--find healing in each other's arms.
After losing a leg to a gunshot wound in the line of duty, Phil Osbourne has felt like a man without a purpose--until he hears Melissa's story and decides to use his Special Forces contacts to track down her missing sister. He knows what he discovers will break Melissa's heart. What he doesn't realize is that helping the women reunite will bring the cartel down on them like the Category 5 hurricane striking Miami.
Bruised yet not quite broken, Melissa and Phil battle the storm and the cartel, calling on strength they didn't know they had to escape death, save the innocent, and--just maybe--find healing in each other's arms.
My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this author when I read her first book and I couldn't wait to read the rest of the series. Sadly I never got to book two before I jumped to this one since it was sent to me for review. I am typically a stickler for reading books in order but lately I have been so bad and I hate it because I like to know if I'm missing something and although I caught on this story I knew there were little things I may have missed. When I read the first book I knew I wanted to know more.
Gosh this story is emotional. Phil is just learning to manage with a lost limb and finding who he is once again. He meets Melissa and doesn't feel like there could be anything in the future with her but ends up helping her in her fight against domestic violence especially when it involves her sister.
This story is full of action, suspense and especially a great theme of faith and depending on God. If you enjoy stories with action, romance and suspense then this is the story for you. I highly recommend you read the whole series!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee and her husband finally settled in central Kentucky so they could enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Hallee’s oldest daughter is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, her middle son struggles as a hexagonal “autism spectrum” peg in this round world, and her youngest son fills the house with wooshes and bangs as he fights imaginary bad guys while wearing a Spiderman costume and wielding a Ninja sword.
When she’s not penning novels, you will find her in the kitchen, which she considers the ‘heart of the home’. Her passion for cooking spurred her to launch a whole food, real food “Parody” cookbook series. In addition to nutritious, Biblically grounded recipes, readers will find that each cookbook also confronts some controversial aspect of secular pop culture.
Hallee has served as the Director of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, President of the Faith-Hope-Love chapter of the Romance Writers of America, is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the American Christian Writers (ACW), and Novelists, Inc. (NINC). An accomplished speaker, Hallee has taught and inspired writers around the globe, from Sydney, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, to Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., and all places in between.
Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her. She prays her work here on earth is a blessing to you and would love to hear from you. You can reach Hallee at hallee@halleebridgeman.com
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About the Book
Book: Sundown
Author: Susan May Warren
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Series: Sky King Ranch, Book 3
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: November 1, 2022
Former Delta Operative Colt Kingston knows when someone is lying. He may not know the truth, but he sure doesn't trust Tae, the woman who is caring for his ailing father at Sky King Ranch. Behind those beautiful blue eyes, he can tell there is a troubled--and smart--woman.
A few of her stories prove true--he's found the crashed plane and the dead body inside. Still, her story of survival seems too incredible to believe . . . until the thugs she claims to be hunting her show up and threaten Sky King Ranch. Now Tae must disappear, along with her secrets.
But Colt's not about to let her go it alone. And when they discover that her secrets include the antidote to a plague that threatens the world, it'll take all three Kingston brothers to save the country they've vowed to protect.
Susan May Warren brings her Sky King Ranch series to a climactic close with this high-stakes race against the clock.
A few of her stories prove true--he's found the crashed plane and the dead body inside. Still, her story of survival seems too incredible to believe . . . until the thugs she claims to be hunting her show up and threaten Sky King Ranch. Now Tae must disappear, along with her secrets.
But Colt's not about to let her go it alone. And when they discover that her secrets include the antidote to a plague that threatens the world, it'll take all three Kingston brothers to save the country they've vowed to protect.
Susan May Warren brings her Sky King Ranch series to a climactic close with this high-stakes race against the clock.
My Thoughts
It was great to once again return to Alaska and the Kingston family. Since the first book I've wanted to know about the mysterious brother Colt and this book did not disappoint. This was a fast paced read that you just could not put down. You wanted to find out what was going to happen next and who the villain was. There is even some surprises I was not expecting.
I absolutely loved that all three brothers were working together in this story. The way that the story unfolded for Tae was wonderful and how both her and Colt came to terms with needing to rely on God was realistic. The redemption arc between Colt and his brother was expected and definitely needed in this conclusion to the series.
I'm not going to divulge all the secrets of this story but I will say that this is one of those series that you have to read from the beginning to get to know the storyline and the family. If you enjoy romantic suspense, swoon worthy characters, hunky male characters then this is the story for you!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Christmas at Whispering Creek by Barbara M. Britton, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Christmas at Whispering Creek Author: Barbara M. Britton
Publisher: Pelican Book Group-White Rose
Release Date: November 30, 2022
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
All Samantha Williams wants is to use her teaching degree to instruct a classroom of second graders. With a breast cancer diagnosis at the age of twenty-three, and failed reconstruction surgery, Sam finds herself without a job and temporarily living with her parents. This isn’t the life Sam expected. When a family friend dies and leaves Sam a house and land in Whispering Creek, Tennessee, Sam must decide if leaving Wisconsin for Southern living is in her lesson plans.
Nashville native, Cole Donoven, left his family’s electrical business to write country music. When Cole’s song writing partner and girlfriend dumps him for a country music star, Cole abandons Nashville to hold up in Whispering Creek and compose one more song. The last thing Cole expects to find in the sleepy small town is a deceased friend, estate squabbles, and a Northern beauty. Will the chaos in Whispering Creek help create a bestselling song for Cole and possibly help him find a life-long collaborator?
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub
MY THOUGHTS
What a great story to start our December! I absolutely enjoyed it. It is a great story full of hope, love and second chances. The main characters Sam and Cole were perfect for each other. The author definitely writes characters that are relatable. I felt for Sam. I wanted to wrap my hands around her and give her a big ole hug. But man she was a spunky little thing and did not back away from anything despite her circumstances. Yes, she had her moments of doubt but don't we all? Her growth throughout the story was a good one.
Cole definitely needed Sam in his life and I am so glad. He also had great growth throughout the story that I enjoyed. I really enjoyed how he appreciated Sam in a way that no other man had. He didn't see the cancer but just her.
Overall I thought it was a good story. The romance moved a little fast but I didn't mind. This was my first book by this author but I hope there are more stories coming from Whispering Creek as I would love to know more about Sam's friend. I think she also has a story that needs to be told!
If you are looking for a Christmas story to start out your season then make sure you grab this one!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book through Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Barbara M. Britton lives in Southeast, Wisconsin. She writes Christian Fiction from Bible Times to modern day USA. Barbara has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate.
Connect with Barbara by visiting barbarambritton.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a Christmas at Whispering Creek book box filled with books and goodies!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 6, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 13, 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. International prize, ebook only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
I love Bibles especially Kids Bibles because I’m always looking for one that will captivate my kiddos during our devotional time. The Egermeier’s Bible is unique because it is interactive! While this is more of a storybook format I think it captures kids right away so that they can go and look for the Bible Story in their Bibles.
One of the things my kids really enjoyed was the QR codes in some of the pages. It gives you the story in video form which for your non-readers is perfect. And since it’s a shortened version you can still read the story and dig deeper with it.
This would make a great gift for your kiddos. Use discount code BLOG30 to receive 30% off!
🎉 You can also enter the giveaway here:
https://www.blessedfreebies.com/egermeiers-interactivestorybible.html
About the Book
Author: Jody Hedlund
Genre: Medieval Time Travel Romance
Series: Waters of Time, Book 3
Release Date: December 6, 2022
Sacrificing and dying to oneself is costly.
But doing so brings new purpose and joy.
As a private investigator, Sybil Huxham has seen her fair share of strange occurrences. But nothing in her career has been more perplexing than the miracles she’s witnessed as a result of people drinking ancient holy water. When she discovers more of the rare holy water, she experiences strange overlaps with a nobleman in the Middle Ages who is languishing in a dungeon, accused of treason and condemned to die. To save his life, she finally crosses to the past completely.
Nicholas Worth has never met a woman quite like Sybil, and as the two run for their lives into the Weald, they find refuge among a community of outlaws. With both their reputations on the line, they have little choice but to marry. As they get to know each other, an undeniable attraction develops. But danger and disease chase after them, drawing ever closer. Will they be able to escape the threats? And will Sybil choose to stay with Nicholas in the past, or will she be ripped apart from him forever?
But doing so brings new purpose and joy.
As a private investigator, Sybil Huxham has seen her fair share of strange occurrences. But nothing in her career has been more perplexing than the miracles she’s witnessed as a result of people drinking ancient holy water. When she discovers more of the rare holy water, she experiences strange overlaps with a nobleman in the Middle Ages who is languishing in a dungeon, accused of treason and condemned to die. To save his life, she finally crosses to the past completely.
Nicholas Worth has never met a woman quite like Sybil, and as the two run for their lives into the Weald, they find refuge among a community of outlaws. With both their reputations on the line, they have little choice but to marry. As they get to know each other, an undeniable attraction develops. But danger and disease chase after them, drawing ever closer. Will they be able to escape the threats? And will Sybil choose to stay with Nicholas in the past, or will she be ripped apart from him forever?
My Thoughts
So great to be back in this world that Jody Hedlund has developed. Who knew that time travel would be a genre I would enjoy so much! After reading Book 2 I was eagerly awaiting for Sybil's story and I must admit that I was curious how she would make Sybil time travel and boy did she take me into quite a journey. Jody definitely takes you into this magnificent ancient world that you just want to be in the whole time. This storyline was very fast paced and definitely keeps you turning the pages.
The romance factor in this story is WOW! Nicholas is definitely swoon worthy and when paired with spunky Sybil it makes for an amazing romance story. I loved how she quickly adapted to Medieval times and life with Nicholas.
I will say that Sybil has quite a story and I think that we could know more about. I am really hoping that we get to know more about her brother in the next book and also find out what happens with this person trying to acquire the Holy Water.
Although this is part of a series I think it could be read as a stand alone. There are mentions of past characters but sadly for me we don't get to see them in this story. Although there are mentions of God I don't think there is a huge thread of faith in the story but it was clean. I will say that if you are extremely conservative in your reads as far as romance goes this may teeter on the lines for you.
Overall I thought this was good story. If you enjoy time travel and clean romances then I definitely suggest this book. I for one can't wait to see what happens next!
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really enjoyed it
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over forty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romance with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
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