BLOGWORDS – Monday 6 September 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – UNDER PENALTY OF DEATH by KRISTENA MEARS

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – UNDER PENALTY OF DEATH by KRISTENA MEARS

 

THE BLURB

Today, Keturah became a woman. But her joy ends in terror when Abba accepts an offer for her betrothal. Her plan to escape the arranged marriage worked. She’s now free to find her brother and live as she chooses. But the lies and deceit catch up with her. If she confesses, will it lead to her death? Will she ever learn to live the life Yahweh desires from her?

Justus’ devotion to Yeshua results in Abba proclaiming him dead to the family. When Justus rescues a child from slavery, Keturah falls in love with the toddler. But the child’s mother returns, and Justus falls in love. Will Keturah’s jealousy destroy all bonds with her brother? Can they save their relationship?

Onesimus, a runaway slave, has a secret. Befriending Keturah, he finds she has a secret of her own. Will the two friends be destroyed by what they hide, or can they learn to give everything to God?
Will running set them free or sentence them to death?

THE AUTHOR

Kristena is an award-winning author, speaker, and blogger.
She is a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur.
She loves history, art, travel, and even research. Out of these, flow her vivid imagination and inspiring stories.
Her heart and life have been given over completely to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She believes in living transparently in all things, with no separation between her day-to-day life and her “.church” life.
Kristena writes an engaging blog that focuses on supporting Indie Author and reaching a writer’s full potential. If you’re looking for new ways to freshen up that dusty manuscript and get it into print, be sure to subscribe to her blog at kristenamears.com
When Kristena’s not busy writing or working her full-time job, you’ll probably find her nose in a book or spending time with her husband and best friend, Mark. She takes frequent trips to the zoo with her friends. She also enjoys cooking and dabbling in photography.
Kristena lives in the Cincinnati, OH area. She has been married to her “better half” for 39 years.and has three grown children.

MY REVIEW

Oh! how impetuous the youth! Even in her faith, Keturah thought and acted rashly, sure she was doing as Jehovah would have her do. Problem was, she didn’t stop to ask. And we all know what happens when we don’t stop to ask. For help. For confirmation. For directions.

But Keturah found herself on a journey far more than in search of her brother. [SPOILER] For even in her [obstinate] attitude, Father God was with her, guiding her, teaching her. Wooing her.

I appreciated Ms. Mears historical detail, rich and vivid, pulling the reader into the culture of the first century Jew. There were times, though, that (for as much as I enjoy it) the detailed descriptions took me out of the storyline, if only just bit.

As He does with each one of us, Father God set the path before for Keturah, bringing people and circumstance at the very moment it is needed. I look forward to the next book in this series.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

FOUR FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Monday, #TRD, Book Review, Under Penalty of Death, Kristena Mears, Slavery of the Heart Series

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 31 August 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – A SECOND CHANCE by WALT MUSSELL

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – A SECOND CHANCE by WALT MUSSELL

THE BLURB

Kira Sakamichi is a career-driven woman, trying to achieve success before her mother’s constant interference sentences her to a relationship. But when a grudging drive to meet her mother’s latest “selection” ends in a lake accident, Kira wakes up lost in the past, the concubine of a 16th century samurai, and mother to his six-year-old son. When actions in battle lead to the samurai’s condemnation, Kira learns that she and her son will share the samurai’s fate. Only by understanding the importance of duty and family in both time periods can they survive.

THE AUTHOR

Walt Mussell lives in an Atlanta-area suburb with his wife and their two sons. He works for a well-known corporation and writes in his spare time.
Walt primarily writes historicals, with a particular focus on Japan, an interest he gained during the four years he lived there. He refers to his work as “Like Shogun, but the heroine survives.”
Outside of writing, his favorite activity is trying to keep up with his kids. As one is in college and the other is now out of college and looking for a position related to his major, this is proving more difficult each day.
Visit his website at waltmussell.com
Follow him on Twitter at @wmussell and on Instagram at @authorwaltmussell

MY REVIEW

Mr. Mussell’s Japanese historical novels are an automatic must-read! His books, so rich and full, never fail to hold the reader’s attention. And A Second Chance is no exception. The history of the 16^th century Samurai era comes alive as Kira lives an alternate life.

As with all historical fiction, the cultural differences can be staggering. I appreciated Kira’s confusion and puzzlement when she first awoke after her accident. Her slow grasp of where she was—and when. Her journey, though, was not just through time, but one of self-discovery [SPOILER.] She emerges confused, but with a shift in values and a new and deeper understanding of family and identity.

I look forward to more stories—travels—with Kira.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

FOUR FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, A Second Chance, Walt Mussell, JustRead Publicity

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 17 August 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE DECORATING CLUB by SUSAN M. MEYERS

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE DECORATING CLUB by SUSAN M. MEYERS

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Decorating Club by Susan M. Meyers, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

                                                                             

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Decorating Club

Author: Susan M. Meyers

Publisher: Just Food For Thought, LLC

Release Date: February 1, 2021

Genre: Women’s Fiction

THE BLURB

The Decorating Club shares the story of what happens when a group of women come together to help each other redesign their homes. In the process, they support each other through some of the challenges encountered by women today. While the primary focus is on identifying the best purpose and theme for each room they soon find themselves faced with the need to help one another determine life’s next chapter. The Decorating Club was inspired by true-life experiences with real neighbors and the friendship they shared.

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

THE AUTHOR

Susan Meyers is an optimist who believes the world would be better served if everyone were more aligned with their greater purpose. The challenge as she sees it is not only to serve one’s purpose but also to adapt as it changes from time to time.

While Susan has worn many hats throughout her life, serving as CEO of her children’s business, 3 Sisters and a Brother, LLC is the role of which she is most proud. It began in the family’s basement when they were just 12, 12, 10, and 7 and soon expanded into two storefronts; within less than eight years, it became a well-known brand in the local community.

As time passed and each of the children began to take flight, Susan and her family made the decision to close the business. With each of her four children off pursuing their own individualized dreams and careers, Susan had to deal with a new title; unemployed CEO; as well as the closed doors that it represented for her more personally.

Finding herself questioning her own purpose and determined to regain it, Susan invested her time looking for answers. It soon became clear that none of the information she found talked to her concerns or even spoke the same language.

Eventually, Susan was reminded of what she already knew and in the hope of helping others facing similar challenges, was moved to write The Decorating Club.

Today, Susan makes her home with her husband and youngest daughter in Fairfield, CT. For more information, visit www.susanmmeyersauthor.com.

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram

MY REVIEW

When I saw the title of this book I knew I just had to read it – after all I’m an Interior Designer!

Where to start – so many wonderful elements in this book! Well, even beyond the design and decorating bit. From the beginning, when both Sarah and Tommy felt God’s nudge. Their obedience to follow the Lord’s leading. Setting into their new home, the questioning, and reaching out to their new neighbors.

This reader has some great neighbors who pitch in and help a gal out, so I know the depth of what Sarah was wrangling. Or, rather, what the Lord was wrangling through her.

I appreciated how Ms. Meyers revealed each character’s story, her needs and wants and desires. Even – most especially – those they weren’t aware of.

And the designs they achieved! Trés fantastique! I loved Sarah’s approach to designing. Reaching in to reveal the inner artist in each of us. And her concept of a home reflecting the personality of those who live there.

The dialogue was halting and contrived at times but the concept of what Sarah achieved, and the healing her friends found, far outweighed any shortcomings in conversation.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

FOUR FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $50 HomeGoods gift card, $10 Dunkin’ Donuts gift card, The Decorating Club travel mug & retractable measuring tape!!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 17, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 24, 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!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Decorating Club, Susan M. Meyers, JustRead Publicity Tours

BLOGWORDS – Monday 9 August 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – WRITTEN IN INK by SARA DAVISON

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – WRITTEN IN INK by SARA DAVISON

THE BLURB

Everything he has built his life and future on has been torn away.
Cash McCall has loved Dr. Renee Dawson for half his life. Although they’ve talked about a future together, she has never believed it was the right time for them to get engaged. Now she has ended their relationship, and he has no idea why.
Everything Renee worked so hard for is in jeopardy. One agonizing decision has changed everything, and she has been forced to shatter the heart of the man she loves. And her own.
The extremist militant group The Arm is on a mission. Its leader doesn’t care how many innocent lives are lost in the pursuit of the group’s end goal, and Renee has seen something she was not supposed to see.
If Cash can’t get to her in time, Renee could end up in the crosshairs of the terrorists, and he may lose her—and any chance at the life he’d always envisioned—forever.

THE AUTHOR

Sara Davison is the author of three romantic suspense series – The Seven Trilogy, The Night Guardians, and The Rose Tattoo Trilogy – as well as the standalone speculative romantic suspense, The Watcher. She has been a finalist for a dozen national writing awards, including Best New Canadian Christian author, a Carol, a Holt Medallion, two Selah, and two Daphne du Maurier Awards for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She is a Word and Cascade Award winner. Sara has a degree in English Literature from Queen’s University. She currently resides in Ontario, Canada with her husband Michael and their three children, all of whom she (literally) looks up to. Her favourite way to spend the days (and nights) is drinking coffee and making stuff up. Get to know Sara better at http://www.saradavison.org and @sarajdavison.

MY REVIEW

Ms. Davison’s writing is no holds barred writing, filled with real-life trauma and tragedy and impossible situations. Impossible decisions. What we as believers take almost for granted—our moral compass, God’s Word—keeps us grounded and guides us in our decision making. (at least it should) But for unbelievers, that moral compass holds no weight, no value, and decision making becomes a matter of pros and cons, or what “feels” right. And how often do we, as believers, stop to consider that weight upon the nonbeliever’s life? It must be crushing.

Renee, living to prove herself, faces an impossible situation and decision. Second guessing herself, even as she moves forward with what she believes she must do, she is caught up in far more than [SPOILER.]

Cash. Crushed beyond belief, can he sit back and let her walk away? Or should he fight for her, try to win her heart back? And what of this faith his brother keeps talking about? How can Cash believe in something—some One—so intangible, so unreal? And yet… [SPOILER]

Page after page, Ms. Davison raises the stakes, urging the reader on, with challenges and danger—and faith.

The brutal honesty of the characters, the unpretty unpolished human factor. The steadfastness of Father God, ever faithful, even to His unbelieving children.

A powerful story of self-doubt and broken hearts, the depth of true love, and the reach of Divine love, and I look forward to the third book in the series.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Monday, #TRD, Book Review, Written in Ink, Sara Davison, The Rose Tattoo Trilogy, Lost Down Deep

BLOGWORDS – Friday 6 August 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – BETRAYED by LISA T. BERGREN

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – BETRAYED by LISA T. BERGREN

 

THE BLURB

They have gathered. And now others gather against them…

An illuminated letter, long buried by the Church—prophesying a fellowship of men and women possessing powerful spiritual gifts—is the catalyst for a profound war that will bring either a new age of enlightenment or a darkness the world has never before seen. As the Gifted gather, gain strength, and follow God’s clues, their enemies grow determined to control them.

Watching the Gifted from afar is Cardinal Boeri, who wants to use the blessed power of the Gifted to secure his own place in the hierarchy of the Church, while the duke of Venezia has reasons of his own to seize control. But the greatest menace is Lord Abramo Amidei, driven to turn the healer, Daria d’Angelo, to his own fold—or to destroy her. And as he schemes to tear apart the fabric of her faith by preying upon those she loves, Amidei knows that together the Gifted are undeniably strong and growing stronger. But if he can succeed in dividing them, the Gifted—and then the world—will be his.

THE AUTHOR

Lisa T. Bergren is Tim’s wife, Olivia, Emma and Jack’s mom, and an explorer of people, places and stories in many genres. She’s written over 60 books and sold over 3 million of them, with the help of some good publishing people and readers like you. You can find more about her at http://www.LisaTawnBergren.com.

MY REVIEW

This book, this series. The depth, the richness, the spiritual challenge.

Don’t we all have spiritual gifts? But how many of us truly embrace our gifting? How many of us dare to walk in the “shadows of death,” to truly trust Father to be who He says He is and do what He says He’ll do? Or do we run, as Jonah, in attempt to hide, escape our gifting? Do we stutter and tell Him, ‘Thanks, but no thanks,’ as Moses did? Do we doubt our ability? Or His ability to work in us? His faithfulness?

Ms. Bergren answers these questions, the ebb and flow, rise and fall of faith and determination in her characters. Each of the Gifted were rough and raw humans—God’s preferred vessels to manifest Himself. Humans with flaws and weaknesses and failures. As Father Pieri says, “I am a priest who believes in Saint Paul’s words—that we are all in the priesthood of believers, that we all share in Christ’s holy mission.”

Ms. Bergren depicts her characters with truth and honesty and depth. Hurts and fears and emotions. Her writing is so vivid and authentic it feels not only as though she has visited the Dark Ages herself but pulls her reader into the streets to walk alongside her.

Having read Begotten and now completed Betrayed (and eagerly anticipating Blessed) I have come to love the characters—Daria’s strength and courage; to embrace her gifting in an age when miracles were thought to be witchcraft. Gianni, oh, his vehemence against the darkness, the sorcerer. Father Pieri, quiet and unassuming, yet possessed of such a strong faith and commitment to his calling and mission. Sweet Tessa, clinging to the others as family while shaking in fear [SPOILER.]

Perhaps it’s the actress in me, but dialogue sets a story in its era and place more than any other factor, and the dialogue in this story is a banner waving at the pinnacle of a castle turret, so true and authentic is it. Yet Ms. Bergren has not overloaded her reader with too much dialect and ancient verbiage to the point of confusion.

Most of us don’t see (or perhaps acknowledge) the intensity of battle Ms. Bergren’s characters face—nay, endure—but her story reminds us oh! so vividly of the Truth of spiritual battle, and the sole purpose and intention of the enemy—and of God’s faithfulness.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Friday, #TRD, Book Review, Betrayed, Lisa T. Bergren, The Gifted Series, Begotten, Blessed, JustRead Publicity

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 3 August 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – A SWEETHAVEN SUMMER by COURTNEY WALSH

 

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 3 August 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – A SWEETHAVEN SUMMER by COURTNEY WALSH

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – A SWEETHAVEN SUMMER by COURTNEY WALSH

 

 

THE BLURB

A faded scrapbook reveals secrets that reconnect old friends in a place called Sweethaven. Campbell Carter has come to Sweethaven in search of answers about her mother’s history. Just before losing a battle with cancer, Suzanne Carter sent letters to childhood friends from her hometown of Sweethaven, Michigan. Suzanne’s three friends — Lila, Jane, and Meghan — haven’t spoken in years, yet each has pieces of a scrapbook they made together as girls. Suzanne’s letters have lured them all back to the idyllic lakeside town, where they meet Campbell and begin to remember what was so special about their long Sweethaven summers. As the scrapbook reveals secrets from the past, old wounds are mended, lives are changed, and friendships are restored — just as Suzanne intended.

THE AUTHOR

Courtney Walsh is a novelist, theatre director, and playwright. She writes small town romance and women’s fiction while juggling the performing arts studio and youth theatre she owns and runs with her husband. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists. Her novel, Just Let Go, won the Carol Award in 2019 and Just One Kiss was a 2020 Christy Award Finalist.

A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.

Connect with Courtney online at her website (courtneywalshwrites.com) or on any of these social media platforms:

Facebook.com/courtneywalshwrites

Instagram.com/courtneywalsh

Twitter.com/courtney_walsh

 

MY REVIEW

When things go terribly wrong do you tell your best friends? Or keep it from them, buried for years, decades? Withdraw from their lives completely, never to be seen again…

Betrayal is an ugly thing, creating rifts and scars that don’t always heal. And Suzanne chose to leave, her secret safely intact, saving her friends from grief.

But her sudden absence caused a different kind of wound. A wound they each carried with them for decades.

Until, dying, Suzanne set reconciliation into motion.

Ms. Walsh digs deep into the emotions of four teenage girls—and later, when those same girls are grown—with brutal force and honesty, the tumultuous teen years made more turbulent by circumstances and events.

Fast forward a couple of decades—Campbell is caught in the middle of her mother’s last wishes and the remnants of the former friendships. Page by page, Ms. Walsh unravels the tangled web of hurt and deceit and broken hearts, emotions raw and real and true.

As Lila and Jane work with Campbell to put the truth of the past together, one scrap at a time, the whole story unfolds, and when Meghan returns, scrapbook in hand, pieces fit together to complete Suzanne’s mission.

Ms. Walsh is a master at unfolding her story, one taunting piece at a time, shifting and twisting, holding the reader spellbound to the very end.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

  FOUR FEATHERS

 

I received this book as a gift. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, A Sweethaven Summer, Courtney Walsh, The Sweethaven Circle Series, A Sweethaven Homecoming, A Sweethaven Christmas

BLOGWORDS – Thursday 1 July 2021 – WREADING WEDNESDAY-on-THURSDAY – FEATURED BOOK– KINGS & CAPTIVES by DANA PRATOLA

WREADING WEDNESDAY-on-THURSDAY – FEATURED BOOK – KINGS & CAPTIVES by DANA PRATOLA

                                                                             

THE BLURB

From the author of the Superhuman Romance series, DESCENDED
This series has it all: Kings, Captives, Faeries, Warriors, Princes, and Traitors. Even Sasquatch!

Ryor’s father wishes him to marry an Earth. He agrees, though for different reasons. Not only does he need her to bear him a child, but wishes to use her as a negotiating tool. When he finds a woman wandering in the woods of Washington State, she’s disagreeable and resistant to being taken from her home world. How could she not want to be a princess?
Evangeline wants to live life on the edge, but she’s found more excitement than she knows what to do with when she and her best friend Daniel are kidnapped and dropped onto an alien planet in another dimension. Her captor is literally prince of this world. And doesn’t he know it? She doesn’t want to marry him, but becoming princess of this strange world may be her only hope of saving Daniel. Though, it might not be so easy if Ryor learns she found his mother’s secret journal.

(*Not a stand-alone book)

THE AUTHOR

I’m passionate about Romance. I write about real people with real struggles, temptations, and desires. My characters often have difficult choices to make – and don’t always make the right ones. My stories are not what you expect, and everything you want.

God has blessed me with a wonderful husband and three dynamic children, all of whom are destined to make wide, colorful splashes in this world. We share our New Jersey home with two dogs. I have no hobbies to speak of unless you include writing. I don’t.

*Important: Please keep in mind that Reviews are so important to authors 🙂

Connect With Me at: http://www.DanaPratolaRomance.com to join my mailing list and receive news of new releases, giveaways, etc.

#Blogwords, Wreading Wednesday-on-Thursday, Featured Book, Kings & Captives, Dana Pratola, The Journals of Voren, Faeries & Warriors, Princes & Traitors

BLOGWORDS – Friday 25 June 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – FRESH SCARS by DONNA MUMMA

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – FRESH SCARS by DONNA MUMMA

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Fresh Scars by Donna Mumma, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Fresh Scars

Author: Donna Mumma

Publisher: Firefly Southern Fiction (Iron Stream Media)

Release Date: June 15, 2021

Genre: Southern Fiction

THE BLURB

Time heals all wounds . . . or does it?

Asia Butler and her sister, Ivy Butler Morelli, have not spoken in fifteen years. As children, they endured brutal emotional abuse from their mother, Veronica, and want only to forget the past . . . and each other.

But the past comes calling when they each receive a letter from Veronica s attorney promising much-needed cash if they will fulfill her dying wish and consent to cleaning out their childhood home. Asia and Ivy reluctantly return to their hometown of Emerson, Florida, only to discover the house is a hoarder’s nightmare filled with strange mementos and clues hinting that they were not the only victims of Veronica’s sadistic nature.

Can this new pain be the path to their healing? Will they be able to choose forgiveness over resentment?

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

THE AUTHOR

Donna Mumma perfected storytelling in her first grade classroom, spinning tales exciting enough to settle a roomful of antsy six-year-olds. She is an award winning author, and loves to write about flawed people who find a way to overcome and thrive. A Florida native, she loves spending time with her husband, adult children, and their energetic collie, Duke

CONNECT WITH DONNA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

MY REVIEW

This book grabbed me and it wouldn’t let go! If it weren’t for needing to eat and sleep I wouldn’t have put it down until I was done!

The 1976 movie, Sybil, comes to mind. Not the dissociative identity disorder but the level of abuse that created it. The fear of going back. The coping mechanisms.

Ms. Mumma doesn’t just tell the reader about Asia’s obsessive compulsive behaviors, she shows us. Each nuanced action, every. single. time. she pulls out a packet of wipes to clean her hands or face. Or doorknob. Or telephone. Or car keys. The bulk quantity she owns. Her need to control her environment. And her past that haunts her.

In contrast, Ivy has taken her world by storm. She owns her environment, and enjoys her life far away from her haunting past. But rather than allow that past to torment her, she has locked it securely away, choosing not to remember anything about it. She’s living the life she wished for as a child, and when the monster scratches at the door, she quickly thrusts it back to the pit where it belongs.

Facing each other after fifteen years was not something either sister wanted. Reconciliation wasn’t even on their radar. Or Veronica’s. Ms. Mumma gently guides her characters through those first days of resentment and bitterness, crumbling the walls, one brick at a time.

The level of abuse was horrific. Not something most people think about let alone live. This reader can only imagine what horrors Veronica suffered to become the monster she was. [And there was a clue, at least to my mind.]

What a journey Ms. Mumma takes her reader on. Page after page of peering into the dark recesses of Veronica’s twisted mind, yet at the same time, clue by sordid clue, Asia and Ivy discover more about themselves and each other, opening the way to build a future. One without monsters or memories tucked away, hidden, forbidden. Memories that will no longer hold them captive because they now can be free from the past.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Fresh Scars plus a $10 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 21, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on

 June 28, 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!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Friday, #TRD, Book Review, Fresh Scars, Donna Mumma, JustRead Publicity

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 22 June 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE SONGSTRESS by LORI BATES WRIGHT

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE SONGSTRESS by LORI BATES WRIGHT

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Book:  The Songstress

Author: Lori Bates Wright

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: April 16, 2021

THE BLURB

Rising opera star, Juliana Chamberlain, still has nightmares of the night she witnessed the assassination of the President of the United States from her spot on stage at Ford Theater. Recruited by The Pinkerton Detective Agency, Juliana was instrumental in bringing those responsible to justice.

Now, two years later, the Pinkertons ask her once again to join forces in exposing a corrupt political organization terrorizing her home in Texas.

Texas Ranger, Cade Matlock, has a job to do. He needs no help from a meddlesome diva with big ideas. However, he is a man of his word. He’s committed to partner with the lovely songstress to smoke out the mastermind of a dangerous clan who has proven he will stop at nothing to satisfy his thirst for vengeance.

Cade and Juliana soon discover their greatest strength is in working together until shadows of the past threaten to destroy their future.

Click here to get your copy!

THE AUTHOR

Lori Bates Wright is an award winning author with a love for history.

Raised in New Mexico, Lori now lives in Texas with her husband of 38 years. She has two grown kids and four adorable grand boys (who leap tall buildings in a single bound!) When she’s not writing, she’s heading up small group ministries with her husband. She enjoys speaking and interacting with women of all ages.

MORE FROM LORI

Growing up, my family loved to laugh.

Some of my favorite childhood memories are centered around my grandmother’s dining room table listening in while my parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles told amazing stories. Sometimes I laughed until I’d lose my breath. Sometimes I sat quietly, taking in the bravery and perseverance shown by those who’d gone before me.

History has been a passion ever since. Couple that with an insatiable love for story and there you have the heart of what inspires me to write.

So, when it came time to brain-storm for this brand new series, I decided to take a known historical event and think about it from every angle. Beyond the recognized players, to the “what if” characters that might have played a role. And, ultimately, how such an event would have changed the course of their lives.

Thus, a star was born.

In THE SONGSTRESS, Juliana Chamberlain witnessed the assassination from her place on the stage. Because I love a little mystery and intrigue, I decided that the leading detective agency of the day would have enlisted her help in identifying the accomplices. Allen Pinkerton had been known to hire a lady detective or two, so she would be trained by the best. Her investigative skills proved helpful in bringing a quick resolution to the case.

Fast forward four years and she’s still haunted by what she saw that night. When Pinkerton again approaches her about a case involving her family in Texas, she accepts.

Being from Texas, I was so happy she did. I’ve wanted to write a story based in the Lone Star State for quite awhile. I loved visiting Georgia and the shores of England in my last series, but I have to say it was good to bring this one home. With all the rugged charm of the post-Civil War era, this book has a little more local flavor than my last three. Al-in-all, I believe my readers are in for a treat. A new cast of fun, quirky characters as we revisit a significant time in our nation.

So, here’s to new beginnings! Or as we say in Texas, “Hang on, y’all are in for a wild ride!”

Happy reading!
Lori

MY REVIEW

This reader has a particular affinity for all things Abraham Lincoln—I share his birthday! This reader also knows something of pre-curtain-backstage nerves—and I totally felt Julianna’s frustration and ramped up anxiety at her performance being put off. Twice!

The opening of this story was gripping, horrifying! And rather accurate to the actual events; I hadn’t realized that John Wilkes Booth was an actor, nor that the cast and crew of the play were all detained for questioning—what a brilliant stroke of creativity that Ms. Wright gives us with Julianna’s point of view! And what a unique perspective an actress has, too!

None too happy to be paired with a woman agent, Cowboy Cade learned quickly that Julianna didn’t need to be treated with kid gloves, and that she has a stubborn streak the size of Texas.

Once they came to agreement that they were working toward the same goal—after no small bit of contention—Cade and “Jules” were able to accomplish what they set out to do. And what they both had determined NOT to do—[SPOILER.]

All the characters in this story were well-rounded, three-dimensional, personable and likeable. Well, except the villains who were most UN-likeable. A generous dose of humor and camaraderie was well pitted against the backdrop of suspense and danger.

With the balance of history and fiction, romance and business, the precarious balance between the Union and the Confederacy—and between Cade and Julianna—Ms. Wright’s story is a page-turner to the end.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

FOUR FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

TOUR GIVEAWAY

To celebrate her tour, Lori is giving away the grand prize package of a Texas Gift basket including a signed copy of THE SONGSTRESS and a $25 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10d53/the-songstress-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG STOPS

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, June 11

Reflections From My Bookshelves, June 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 12

Connect in Fiction, June 12

Inklings and notions, June 13

Rebecca Tews, June 13

Texas Book-aholic, June 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 14

lakesidelivingsite, June 15

To Everything There Is A Season, June 15

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 15

For Him and My Family, June 16

Labor Not in Vain, June 16

deb’s Book Review, June 17

Genesis 5020, June 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 18

HookMeInABook, June 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 19

Inside the Wong Mind, June 19

The Christian Fiction Girl, June 20

Connie’s History Classroom, June 20

A Baker’s Perspective, June 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 21

Blossoms and Blessings, June 22

Lis Loves Reading, June 22

Pause for Tales, June 23

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, June 23

Mary Hake, June 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 24

KarenSueHadley, June 24

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Songstress, Lori Bates Wright, Celebrate Lit Publicity

BLOGWORDS – Wednesday 16 June 2021 – WREADING WEDNESDAY – FEATURED BOOK– WHERE HE LEADS by LYNNE LANNING

 

 

BLOGWORDS – Wednesday 16 June 2021 – WREADING WEDNESDAY – FEATURED BOOK– WHERE HE LEADS by LYNNE LANNING

WREADING WEDNESDAY – FEATURED BOOK – WHERE HE LEADS by LYNNE LANNING

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Where He Leads by Lynn Lanning, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Where He Leads

Series: Desires of the Heart #1

Author: Lynne Lanning

Release Date: January 24, 2021

Genre: Christian, Historical/Western Romance

 

THE BLURB

By the age of 11, Lilly had suffered more horrific circumstances, than any adult should have to bear. She lost both of her parents and the only home she ever knew, then was forced to move away from her brothers and sisters.

Why had God allowed all of this tragedy?

Pa had found the perfect home for her before his death. Through her new family’s loving care and instruction, Lilly grew into a beautiful young lady, filled with compassion, intelligence, and having a strong faith in God.

When she met Tommy, her heart flipped! How could she make all of the life lessons she had learned, her faith in God, and Tommy fit into God’s plan for her life? Was Tommy truly part of God’s plan for her?

Tommy and his mother’s past brought possible danger to anyone close to them. Could Lilly put her family through that? Should she abandon Tommy and the feelings she had for him? Could prayer be the answer?

With more circumstances beyond their control fighting against them, it seemed their troubles would never end. Would God allow her the Desires of her Heart?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository | IndieBound

 

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

 

THE AUTHOR

Lynne and her husband, Roger, live in the beautiful foothills of North Carolina. Enjoying the life of an artist/crafter, she nurtures three generations of creativity, encouraging the natural talents of her children and grandchildren. Her stories are full of romance and action mixed with humor and sass, encouraging her readers to identify with the characters while evoking emotion. Lynne enjoys canning and preserving fresh veggies that Roger grows in his amazing garden.  She also has a passion for cooking, singing, reading and volunteer work at her church.

CONNECT WITH LYNNE: Website | Facebook

 

 

 

 

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of the Desires of the Heart series!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 14, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 21, 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!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

 

#Blogwords, Wreading Wednesday, Featured Book, Where He Leads, Lynne Lanning, JustRead Publicity