Lovely book shows kids God is right there with them! “You Can Shine So Bright!” ~ a JustRead Blog Tour (& giveaway, ends 8/30/22)

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for You Can Shine So Bright! by Jeremy & Jinger Vuolo, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: You Can Shine So Bright! Author: Jeremy & Jinger Vuolo Publisher: WorthyKids Release Date: August 23, 2022 Genre: Christian, Children’s Picture Book

Help little ones learn to live by faith and love others well with this picture book from beloved television stars Jinger and Jeremy Vuolo.

This sweet and inspiring book encourages children to let their light shine as they move about the world. As they read along, little readers will be introduced to the fruits of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22–23. Written in lighthearted verse, the story follows a group of children as they model love, joy, patience, peace, and more in everyday, relatable scenarios. This book, straight from the heart of the Vuolos, is perfect for families looking for a faith-based story to share together.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indie Bound | Christianbook

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jinger and Jeremy Vuolo are known for living out their faith and family values during their years of television stardom. Jinger first appeared on TLC’s 19 Kids and Counting, and later, the couple appeared together on Counting On. Hailing from Springdale, Arkansas, and part of the Duggar family, Jinger is an avid home cook, gifted pianist, and violinist who uses her talents to support the non-profit organization Swan 4 Kids. Jeremy is a former professional soccer player from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, now enrolled in the graduate program at The Master’s Seminary. The Vuolos live in Los Angeles, California, with their two children.

Connect with Jinger and Jeremy at their website to follow them on social media or sign up for their newsletter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive signed copies of You Can Shine So Bright, The Hope We Hold, and a $50 Visa gift card. (9) additional winners will receive signed copies of You Can Shine So Bright and The Hope We Hold.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 23, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 30, 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.

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My thoughts on You Can Shine So Bright!

What a precious book!

If you are like me, and want to share about God and His love to your little ones, you’ve spent a lot of time reading Bible stories and children’s Bibles to them. You’ve probably shared the gospel with them. You Can Shine So Bright! is a beautiful book addition to what you’re already teaching your children. This picture book, with its cheerful and happy illustrations, takes Galatians 5:22-23 and illustrates in words and pictures what a life lived with God’s Holy Spirit can look like–in kid version!

Let me remind you what this verse says:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against things like this.

Galatians 5:22-23, CEB (Common English Bible)

I think we all love this verse–and we want our lives to show this! Authors Jinger and Jeremy Vuolo and illustrator Naomi C. Robinson take the qualities of the fruit of the Spirit and break them down, one by one, so that little eyes and ears can imagine them lived out in kid lives. (I’d take this a step further and say that this book will also inspire the adults who are reading this to their kiddos!) Each particular fruit is given two facing pages, plus rhyming verses which show kids living out the fruit in word and deed.

The verse, or poetry, on each page provides a rhythm which is cheerful and jaunty for read-alouds. The illustrations are bright and lovely and perfectly suited to this upbeat book about, at its heart, Christian living. The art shows children of many colors and even kids with disabilities, reaching out to others and showing the the Spirit’s work in their lives. I’ve included some of the pages here, although you’ll have to get a copy of You Can Shine So Bright! for yourself to see my own personal favorite (faithfulness).

I just loved this book. It takes verses about Christian living and makes them very personal and relatable to the reader. It shows that each of us, especially kids, can live a life of love and Spirit-directed care to others, whether they are siblings, friends, neighbors, grandparents, and even animals! Best of all, it tells children two important things:

• Jesus doesn’t only love us when we’re good; He loves us even when we totally mess up!
• And all of these beautiful qualities (or fruits) come from Him living in us, and working through us. We don’t generate them on our own, nor do we have to.

What a joy! God totally loves us–and we can live a life of love with His power in us.

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

“The Dreaming Beauty” ~ a JustRead Blog & Review Tour (& giveaway, ends 8/22/22)

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Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for The Dreaming Beauty by Anneka R. Walker, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Dreaming Beauty Series: Standalone follow-up to The Masked Baron Author: Anneka R. Walker Publisher: Covenant Communications Release Date: July 11, 2022 Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance / Historical / Regency / Fairy Tale Once upon a dream, two cursed people fell in love . . . Tansy White doesn’t want to end up alone like her three aunts who raised her, but when she is betrayed by her would-be betrothed, she fears she might never change her fate. At her aunts’ suggestion, she seizes the chance to visit Rose Cottage, the country home of her late mother. For years, dreams of the cottage have haunted Tansy, and she is convinced it holds the answer to her hidden past. But after getting caught in a terrible storm, she meets a man who is just as determined as she is to learn all her secrets. Marcus Taylor, brother to the Duke of Westmorland, is also troubled by vivid dreams. On a sleepless night, as a tempest rages outside his brother’s estate, he makes a discovery far more mysterious than any dream: a young woman, cold as ice, lies unconscious in the library, and he is sure she is the key to solving his problems. When she wakes, what begins as a shared quest for information turns into an unexpected friendship. As they piece together the fragments of their pasts, they discover a tangled web of lies, and their feelings for each other become just as entwined. But is their love as strong as their dreams . . . or their fate? PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub  

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anneka Walker is an award-winning author raised by a librarian and an English teacher turned judge. After being fed a steady diet of books, she decided to learn about writing. The result was a bachelor’s degree in English and history. When she isn’t dreaming up a happy ending for a story, she is busy living her own with her husband and adorable children.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, The Dreaming Beauty, signed book plate, matching bookmark, stickers, and button!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 15, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 22, 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.

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My thoughts about The Dreaming Beauty

What a moving and delightful read! In The Dreaming Beauty, author Anneka Walker combines the charm of Jane Austen’s novels with the gothic secrets and suspense of those of the Brontë sisters–and the locales enjoyed by both. Although I sensed both of those worlds as I read The Dreaming Beauty, the characters and the story are Anneka Walker’s own.

Orphaned Tansy White lives with her three aunts (Aster, Iris, and Daisy) in Yorkshire. When a dream awakens her with urgency, she races to town to see with her own eyes the thing that it had foreshadowed: the man she had planned to marry in an intimate embrace with another young woman. At this moment, her aunts decide that it is time to finally take Tansy to the Lake District, to Rose Cottage, where her mother had lived before she had died.

Tansy’s family is a bit odd, or perhaps eccentric would be a better word. And Tansy herself is plagued at times with terrible dreams; although her dreams aren’t all nightmares. In fact, she painted her most beautiful painting after dreaming of its location. However, Tansy doesn’t live in an era (post-Napoleonic wars) when others would consider that anything but mental illness. And that would send her, she’s afraid, to Bedlam, the asylum for the mentally ill whose very name inspires terror. So she endeavors to keep that part of her a secret.

In the Lake District, Marcus Taylor (Oxford professor) is stewarding his brother’s estate. He has suffered from nightmares for years, and as a result avoids his bed as long as he can each night. And when a restless night sends Tansy out on a walk in the forest lane near Rose Cottage, she’s surprised when a cold rainfall catches her unawares. She’s suddenly lost–as well as drenched. (Did I mention she is only in her nightgown?) She finds a large home and makes her way in through the unlocked door…and to the nearby room where the coals of a fire beckon her. She thinks she will rest for just a moment…

And that’s where Marcus finds her, frozen, barely breathing, and with a fever. What a meeting!

Marcus befriends Tansy and her sisters. But what secrets exist on both sides! What is the cause of Marcus’s nightmares? Why does Tansy know so very little about her parents? Who is the dowager duchess who lives sequestered on the duke’s land? And who is leaving threatening notes on Tansy’s doorstep?

I absolutely loved The Dreaming Beauty! Anneka Walker tells her tale in a way that is both unhurried yet captivating; she is a masterful story plotter. Her characters are captivating, too! I loved Marcus, with his abilities to ferret out secrets and to spot liars…yet he is gentle and noble in his treatment of others. Tansy also is not in any way a typical Regency heroine. She is brave and wise, never one to simper at the attentions of men. She knows her own worth. But still, when they meet! Wonderful.

Get yourself a copy of The Dreaming Beauty. If you’re at all fond of Regency or gothic novels, you will love this beautifully-told tale. And don’t forget to enter the giveaway, listed above!

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Jerry Jenkin’s newest: “Dead Sea Conspiracy” ~ a JustRead Blog Tour & fab Giveaway (ends 8/24/22)

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Dead Sea Conspiracy by Jerry B. Jenkins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Dead Sea Conspiracy Series: Dead Sea Chronicles #2 Author: Jerry B. Jenkins Publisher: Worthy Books Release Date: August 23, 2022 Genre: Christian Suspense, Dual Timeline (Biblical & Contemporary) In Book 2 of the Dead Sea Chronicles, archaeologist Nicole Berman is about to discover the key to unifying three major religions, if a dangerous and evil enemy doesn’t stop her first. She is the first woman to be awarded a permit to lead a dig in Saudi Arabia and believes what she hopes to discover has the power to rewrite history. She assembles a team that will ultimately surprise – and in some cases – betray her. In a parallel storyline, readers are launched back to ancient Ur where young Abram is sent to learn from his forebears, who tell him firsthand stories of being on the ark during the Great Flood.

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

 

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jerry B. Jenkins‘ books have sold more than 73 million copies. Twenty-one of his titles have reached the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and Wall Street Journal best-seller lists. The phenomenally best-selling Left Behind series inspired several movies, one starring Nicolas Cage and another starring Kevin Sorbo. Jenkins has been featured on the cover of Newsweek and his writing has appeared in Time, Reader’s Digest, Guideposts, and dozens of other periodicals. Jenkins owns the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, through which he trains thousands of aspiring writers. He is a member of the Colorado Authors Hall of Fame and chairs the Creative Writing major at Colorado Christian University. He and his wife, Dianna, have three grown sons, including Dallas, creator and director of The Chosen TV series.

Connect with Jerry by visiting jerryjenkins.com to follow him on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive signed & personalized copies of Dead Sea Rising (paperback), Dead Sea Conspiracy (hardcover), and a $50 Visa gift card. (9) additional winners will receive signed & personalized copies of Dead Sea Rising (paperback) and Dead Sea Conspiracy (hardcover).

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 16, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 23, 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 https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Now, read some excerpts from Jerry’s Dead Sea Conspiracy!

Jerry Jenkins’ “Dead Sea Chronicles” novels series is full of captivating suspense, unexpected faith, and fascinating settings and locales for his characters. That’s all so true again in Dead Sea Conspiracy! A dual-timeline novel takes readers into both ancient Ur and current-day Saudi Arabia, with protagonist Nicole having the distinction of being the first female archaeologist granted permission to run a dig there. You will definitely find this book to be a gripping and compelling read. Here are some book excerpts so you can step into Nicole’s world–and Abram’s present–in our own far distant past!

Excerpt #1:
When they arrived a few minutes later, Nicole found beautiful Kayla’s cheeks wet, and she
seemed unable to look Nicole in the eye. Her mother’s doctor pointed her and her father to chairs
in a small conference room. Kindly yet directly, he said, “There’s no easy way to break this to
you, but your wife and mother took a sudden turn for the worse this morning and passed less
than an hour ago.”

Impossible, Nicole thought. “She was perfectly fine last night! What happened?”  Benzion stood quickly. “I want to see her.”
“Let’s let them make her presentable, and—”
“Right now,” Ben said.
Nicole had shared her father’s urgency but now remained haunted by the pained expression she
found on the face she had come to cherish over the years—as if her mother had fought for a last
breath. There had been no signs of trauma or danger for days. Nicole couldn’t make it compute,
and her father seemed on the verge of a breakdown. “How does something like this happen?” he
asked the doctor, his voice constricted. “No warnings from all these machines?”
 

Excerpt #2:
It wasn’t as if Terah had not seen violence, especially in the presence of King Nimrod. In fact,
Terah himself had initiated enough that he should have been hardened to it. But something
rocked him about the capriciousness of this callous murder. The farther they climbed the great
tower, the more disgusted he became—with both the king and with himself.
When hoofbeats approached from below, he assumed it was the sculptor of the king’s image and
prayed the man had thought to bring a fresh rendering of Nimrod looking the way he wished to
appear. If he arrived with only more excuses, he might easily face the same fate as the hapless
chair bearer. But the donkey that clopped into view bore not the sculptor, but the wife of the slain
man. She dismounted and stood before the king, forcing his carriers to halt.
“I demand to know what happened! How does my husband, who served you faithfully—and with
pride—for so many years, wind up dead at the base of the tower?”
“So my message reached you, dear woman?” the king said.
“Your message? No! Someone recognized my husband’s body! What was your message?”
“I dispatched a courier to get word to you of your loyal husband’s unfortunate demise. We were
forced to the edge by a load of fresh brick and he lost his footing, poor soul.”

“Liar!” the woman screamed. “I saw his body! His shoulder and back had been ripped open!”
“He must have hit rocks on the way d—”
“The sides of the tower are smooth! He was clearly attacked by a swordsman and driven to—”
“Terah!” Nimrod said. “Did this woman call her king a liar?”
“She did.”
“Then why do you just stand there? Mete out justice! She must also die!”
Terah found himself willing to perish before he would execute this innocent woman. But before
he could call out Nimrod for his blatant lie, the woman keened, “I’ll save you the trouble!” and
leapt off the tower.

Excerpt #3
“I need to be entirely up front with you. Let me tell you what I believe the real worry is among my
colleagues and, more important, my superiors. Finds here at what you well know is ancient
Dedan might appear to confirm the primacy of Isaac and his descendants, as opposed to Ishmael
and his descendants. The people I answer to hold firmly to the doctrine that Abraham’s true son
of blessing and promise was Ishmael, the father of the Arabs.”
“And not Isaac,” Nicole said, “the father of the Jewish nation.”
Dr. Qahtani stepped even more directly into the sun and had to shield even his sunglasses with a
hand. He faced Nicole directly. “We’ve known each other only a few minutes,” he said. “And
already I admire your mind and what I can judge of your character—among other things.”
She felt her face flush and hoped it didn’t show. “Well, likewise, but you don’t really kn—”
“Lest there be any doubt, Nicole, you need to know that the mere possibility that discoveries
here, right in the backyard of the birthplace of our religion, could lend support to the Jewish
version of history and would rock the Islamic world. Many Muslims would be willing to do
anything to prevent that. Anything.”

Now that you’ve gotten a bit of the flavor of Jerry Jenkins’ newest, Dead Sea Conspiracy, don’t forget to enter his giveaway, filled with amazing prizes! One winner will receive signed AND personalized copies of Dead Sea Conspiracy and Dead Sea Rising, plus a $50 Visa gift card. 9 additional winners will receive signed and personalized copies of the two books. So exciting!

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

“Off the Itinerary” — a 3-book series — and a JustRead Blog Tour & Giveaway (ends 8/16/22)

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Off the Itinerary series by M. Liz Boyle, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE SERIES

Title: Avalanche Series: Off the Itinerary #1 Author: M. Liz Boyle Publisher: Independently Published Release Date: September 26, 2019 Genre: Christian middle-grade/YA, Adventure

“Avalanche surprised me with its depth…a 5-star read…” -For the Love of Literature Five friends. One moonlit summit. An unforgettable journey. Excitement hangs in the air as Marlee and her sisters join their friends on a daring hike up a Colorado mountain – in the middle of the night. When Sawyer first proposes the idea of a moonlit summit during the two families’ annual backpacking trip, Marlee is terrified but also hooked. Having grown up taking trips to the mountains, they’ve learned a thing or two about hiking, and Sawyer is confident they’ll be back by sunrise. But when disaster strikes, their knowledge, faith, and stamina will be put to the test. Digging out of the cemented snow is the first of many challenges in the coming days, and now Marlee has to trust Sawyer, who, by the way, was the brain behind the dilemma. Will their faith and friendship survive, or will they cave under pressure? This engaging journey, told by fifteen-year-old Marlee Stanley, captures a timeless sense of adventure. The five young adults strive to exhibit godly character throughout their escapade, but it will take immense strength to hike out of this mess. “I know that if their journey inspired me, it will certainly inspire others…Boyle has brought YA fans an uplifting, adventurous novel.” -A Baker’s Perspective PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound  

Title: Chased Series: Off the Itinerary #2 Author: M. Liz Boyle Publisher: Independently Published Release Date: June 1, 2020 Genre: Christian middle-grade/YA, Adventure

“Chased would be a great addition to a k-12 Christian school library. Middle schoolers and up will enjoy it.” – Library Lady’s Kid Lit It’s been a year since Marlee, her sisters, and the Miles boys survived an avalanche. Sure, it was a little embarrassing for them when all the neighbors saw them on the news, but they love being outdoors, and what are the odds that another tragedy would strike this adventurous group? Has anyone calculated the statistics of being hit with two natural disasters? It has to be low, so of course the two families planned to backpack again this summer. When the teens first meet Thad, a dehydrated hiker on the trail, they give him water and food and help him recover. He seems harmless until he tells them to hike a few extra miles at sunset. Then Lydie finds a hand-drawn map that Thad dropped, and they discover why he is so eager to get away from the Stanley girls and Miles boys. So eager that he starts chasing them. Now they have to climb up unforgiving ridges, sneak through the night, and – is that thunder and lightning? To make matters worse, Marlee has a nagging worry that her older sister Ellie is preparing to move away from home. What is God’s plan? How will they get away from Thad before it’s too late? “…realistic, exciting, and suspenseful…Chased is the perfect sequel to Avalanche. It’s gripping, suspenseful, entertaining, and, best of all, Christian.” -David M., Beta Reader

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

 

Title: Ablaze Series: Off the Itinerary #3 Author: M. Liz Boyle Publisher: Independently Published Release Date: February 25, 2021 Genre: Christian middle-grade/YA, Adventure

“M. Liz Boyle tackles the topic of showering difficult people with grace and forgiveness, making this a must-read for Christian teens. Adventure seekers who loved Avalanche and Chased will fall head-over-heels for the adventure that heats up in Ablaze!” – Author Allyson Kennedy This summer the Stanley sisters and the Miles boys are excited to hike together again, and now they have the unique opportunity to help two of their ranger friends with an outdoor program in the beautiful Montana mountains. Marlee has always considered herself a willing follower. Give her a direction and she’s happy to help. Her older sister Ellie is a natural leader, and Marlee is content in her role as assistant. Marlee and her sisters have been assigned to help with Ranger Rose’s team, and they are savoring the adventure. But in a heartbeat while the group is divided by a few hundred feet, fire breaks out between Ranger Rose and Marlee’s group. In this enthralling finale to the Off the Itinerary series, Marlee must face her fears with courage that only God can provide.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

M. Liz Boyle is an author, the wife of a professional tree climber and the mom of three energetic and laundry-producing children. She received her Associate’s of Arts at the University of Sioux Falls, where she received the LAR Writing Award for her essay entitled, “My Real Life Mufasa.” Liz once spent a summer in Colorado teaching rock climbing, which she believes was a fantastic way to make money and memories. She resides with her family in Wisconsin, where they enjoy hiking and rock climbing. Liz and her husband have also backpacked in Colorado and the Grand Canyon, which have provided inspiration for her writing. She likes making adventurous stories to encourage others to find adventures and expand their comfort zones (though admittedly, she still needs lots of practice expanding her own comfort zone). She has thoroughly enjoyed working on the Off the Itinerary series.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(3) winners will receive one Off the Itinerary series book (winner’s choice), book swag, and $15 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 August 9, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 16, 2022. US only. Items may vary from image. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Book excerpts to whet your appetite!

I personally love the YA world of fiction. While during our homeschool years we read a LOT of historical fiction, I was always thrilled when a book came along that captured my boy’s heart and mind. It feels as though there has been a huge surge lately in the YA (or young adult, books written for ages 12-18 and older) genre in terms of publishing. That makes me very happy–and I’m also happy to share some exciting book excerpts from the Off the Itinerary series!

I love the author’s voice and the characters she speaks through. Get ready for some rip-roaring reads–from the POV of teens who love their families and their God, and walk that out in the midst of some crazy adventures!

Book 1: Avalanche

“Full moons come once a month, and this combined-family backpacking trip happens once a year,” Sawyer explained. “My plan is for us to make it to the peak by two, maybe three a.m., and then be back to camp well before our parents wake up. They’ll never even notice we were gone.” He glanced at each of our faces to gauge our reactions. My mind began spinning, imagining the cautionary information Dad and Caleb would have for this idea. 

Hiking at night? Attempting a peak in the dark? It was early June, so the ridges and peaks were still mostly snow covered. During the day, with Dad and Caleb’s expertise, our careful moms close by, and the extensive gear that our dads had, I would not be so hesitant. But sneaking away in the night, just us kids? I almost spoke up, but then Sawyer continued, “I heard Dad and Mr. Forrest talk about it once.” Forrest Stanley is my dad, affectionately called Mr. Forrest by the Miles boys. Sawyer continued, “They did a moonlit summit, and Dad said it was one of his greatest memories. We could have a story like that, too,” he pressed. I too had heard the story of their midnight hike. But they told the guys they were with what they were doing, and besides, they were professional backpacking guides at the time.

In my family, we pray to God. A lot. We pray before meals and trips, and at the start and end of every day. Instinctively, I began praying silently, either for safety or for Sawyer to forget this whole idea. I’ll admit, it sounded cool – make that awesome. Summiting one of Colorado’s fourteeners, a peak over 14,000 feet tall, in the middle of the night during a full moon! What could be better than that? This would be a tough decision. But Sawyer was almost eighteen now, with a respectable amount of backpacking experience considering his age. He was enrolled to attend the Professional Outdoor Guides School at the end of summer. So we practically had a pro leading us. Well, not quite a pro, but I knew he was good for his age.

And I already knew how knowledgeable he was with bears. I’d seen him hike every summer for as long as I could remember, and I could not deny that he was a natural. With him as our guide, the chances of our succeeding were fairly high – I hoped.

Book 2: Chased

“Maybe this is far-fetched,” Ellie slowly said, as if she was afraid to say it, “but what if there’s something wrong at the next campsite where Thad sent us? I mean, he doesn’t want us to be near him, but why? Do you think it’s a coincidence that he said that not everyone you meet in the backcountry is good? What if he’s planning some crime against us, and we’ll hike right into it by following his instructions?”

Sawyer, Lydie, and I nodded thoughtfully, but Marshall spoke up, “Good point, but I think it’s more likely that he’s afraid of us, so he’ll feel better if he knows we’re out of his space. He seemed paranoid when he was asking every detail of our itinerary. Like he thought we were out to get him. And how could he be planning evil against us when he was half-dead only a few hours ago?” Again, we all nodded thoughtfully, considering the unusual situation. Was it paranoia or planned crime? If he really was a criminal, he could have accomplices, and they could still be able to do whatever it was even if Thad was sick. He looked nervous  – was it fear of us hurting him, or of us spoiling his criminal plans?

Book 3: Ablaze

A month ago I would’ve jumped at the chance to help lead OutPro. I would do almost anything for the rangers who rescued us, and this chance was practically a dream come true. But that was before. I really did want to make Ranger Rose proud, but I felt unworthy of her confidence in my ability to lead. I
was so out of my comfort zone, and I was only kidding myself to think I could make the rangers proud and contribute to OutPro. Braelynn and Shelby had shown me that I wasn’t up to leading. I’m just a hot mess – a hot mess who is almost in tears. And how could Ranger Rose be so delusional to think I could be
helpful? I couldn’t stand to see disappointment in her face, so I looked down and scratched a bug bite on my shin. 

Sure, I signed up to help lead. But at this point, I decided OutPro would be better off if I just tagged along. I would participate just enough to stay off the Rangers’ radar, but not so much to be annoying and divisive. Because lately when I try to lead, bad things happen. And in a forest that was reportedly ready to burst into flames, I did not want to be a leader.

…

I had never given much thought to the well-known fact that heat rises. But as I gaped at the flames racing uphill toward us, greedily devouring the meadow grass, I realized that the rising heat factoid is a really big deal. Braelynn’s slashing words again clouded my thoughts. Sorry to disappoint you, Mrs. Gunderson. I
should never have signed up for this leadership role!

“Marlee, do something!” Reeny shrieked. Sure, let me just unroll the fire hose stashed conveniently in the top of my pack.

I don’t know about you, but each of the situations where the teens find themselves above are ones that really cause my adrenaline to start rolling! And, of course, makes me read even faster to reach the conclusion of the books. I believe you’ll feel the same way!

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

“Shoal Waters” ~ a JustRead Blog & Review Tour & Giveaway (ends 8/17/22)

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Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for Shoal Waters by Normandie Fischer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Shoal Waters Series: Carolina Coast Stories #6 Author: Normandie Fischer Publisher: Sleepy Creek Press Release Date: June 14, 2022 Genre: Inspirational/Clean Women’s Fiction Dementia, mad gunmen, and a yearning for something more make life difficult for the Beaufort folk in this series finale. Georgie’s mind threatens to go walkabout, and she’d better get help soon if she’s to stop her daughter from taking over. Enter granddaughter, Jeminy, a songwriter from L.A., and Eric, her lawyer. Jeminy hates herself and is pretty sure God does, too. There’s that huge unforgiveable sin, plus the boyfriend/manager who dumped her and lost her a music deal. Her mistakes. Her fault. When Mother plots to tuck Nana Georgie neatly into a nursing home to gain access to Nana’s money, Jeminy hightails it out of L.A. and back to Beaufort. God may still hate her in North Carolina, but at least she’ll be on hand to protect her beloved grandmother. Enter Eric, the lawyer hired to help Georgie protect herself–and possibly Jeminy, too. But Eric just rescued his orphaned stepson from Social Services, and while he’s adept at legal briefs and courtroom dramas, classrooms and angry second graders are brand new territory. Guitar in hand, Jeminy tries to write songs to jumpstart her flagging career, but when someone threatens her life, she has to ask why. Could it have to do with the money missing from her bank accounts (and maybe her unstable ex)? If she prays for help, will God even listen to someone with her baggage? With the help of the Beaufort crew, a new father and a terrified musician struggle to safeguard everyone they love, but it’s going to take more than good neighbors to show each of them the true meaning of grace. PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub  

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Normandie Fischer had the best of several worlds: a Southern heritage, access to schooling in the DC area (which meant lots of cultural adventures), and several years of sculpture studies in Italy. It might have been better for her if she’d used all these opportunities more wisely, but it’s possible that the imperfect and the unwise also add fodder for the artist and the writer.

Her life changed radically when she married the love of her life at an age when some would have said she was over the hill and way past her prime. (Clichés often speak the truth, don’t they?) A lifelong sailor, she was delighted to find that Michael also longed to cruise lovely waters, which is what they did from Northern CA to Mexico, spending too-few years in the incomparable Sea of Cortez. Sea Venture, their 50′ ketch, is back home in North Carolina now because Normandie’s mama needed care. Still, it’s gorgeous there, too, and she can write from home as easily as she could on the boat. Her two grown children and two step-sons are handsome (or gorgeous, as the case may be), talented, and a delight. And now there’s a granddaughter and grandson in the mix–woohoo! She just wishes they lived a lot closer to home.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and one signed book written by Normandie Fischer (winner’s choice)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 10, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 17, 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/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My thoughts

I entered Normandie Fischer’s Carolina Coast series late in the game; all the way to book #6, Shoal Waters. And yet, the author brought enough backstory along with each character that I didn’t feel lost at all. (Of course, those little tastes of each peripheral character’s stories just made me want to go back and read books #1-5!)

So the protagonists of Shoal Waters are all different types of people, with different challenges going on; grandmother Georgie, who’s struggling with some occasional dementia symptoms. Then, there’s her granddaughter Jeminy, who’s pursuing the songwriting business in LA but who had untrustworthy people doing the so-called “management” of her assets and royalties. Eric is an attorney whose wife left him four years ago, with their son; his ex takes the money he transfers to her each month but doesn’t allow him to see the boy.

But life happens. And even though it’s not always evident, God’s hand and His love for His children is intertwined with the events that each character experiences. Loss–then a move back home, to new life. A different kind of loss–and then the beloved child is back. Georgie’s momentary losses of her short-term memories–but then companions to lighten the load and support.

Redemption. Love. Renewal. Community. Pick up Normandie (isn’t that the most lovely name?) Fischer’s Shoal Waters. Her characters go through hard things (sometimes truly terrible ones). Yet rescue is waiting on the other side; and sometimes, right in the middle of the trials. You will cheer for Georgie, for Jeminy, for Eric and Danny; and sometimes even for the more “villainous” characters. In the end, good just might come for them as well!

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Susan May Warren’s “The Epic Story of RJ and York” ~ a JustRead Blog Tour & Giveaway (ends 8/9/22

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Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Epic Story of RJ and York by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE SERIES

It’s an epic adventure across Europe, from France to Italy, to Germany and even Russia in this riveting, fun, romantic, enthralling trilogy about true love, honor, and the cost of, well, saving the world.

Title: Out of the Night Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #1 Author: Susan May Warren Publisher: SDG Publishing Release Date: August 9, 2022 Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The romantic trilogy ignites in book one of the Epic Story of RJ and York! He’s not looking for trouble… All former spy and current national security agent York Newgate wants is to propose to the woman he loves, RJ Marshall. Then they can move to Shelly, Washington, and start the calm, safe life he’s been dreaming of for over a year. Too bad trouble doesn’t agree… Or maybe RJ simply attracts trouble because she’s just going out for coffee when she spots a wanted, known terrorist standing in the middle of a street in Paris. At least she thinks it’s international criminal Alan Martin, the mastermind behind a plot to kill the president. But he’s in jail, right? Wrong. Martin has escaped, and it’s up to RJ—and York—to keep him in their sights until he can be apprehended. But chasing down Martin means following him into the darkness of whatever plot he’s cooked up now. Will he ever outrun trouble to find his happy ending? So much for York’s epic proposal. Now, he just wants to escape Europe with their lives. PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble  

Title: I Will Find You Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #2 Author: Susan May Warren Publisher: SDG Publishing Release Date: August 16, 2022 Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The gripping romantic adventure continues across Europe in this second installment of the Epic Story of RJ and York! The woman he loves has vanished… When RJ Marshall said she’d be right back, York should have objected. No, he wasn’t going to let her run off to Berlin, even if it was to save a little girl. Only problem—she’d told him this while he was unconscious. So really, it doesn’t count, and it’s not his fault that she’s gone missing. And, he didn’t know why he expected RJ not to chase danger into trouble. But now he has to find her before criminal mastermind Alan Martin tracks her down. She’s in over her head… RJ didn’t mean to leave York behind, but she’s on a mission to save a little girl caught in the crossfire of Martin’s terrorist plot. Now, she’ll have to find the girl and keep her safe while leaving clues for York to follow her. But who will catch up to her first—York, or the man with a vendetta? PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble  

Title: No Matter the Cost Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #3 Author: Susan May Warren Publisher: SDG Publishing Release Date: August 23, 2022 Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The riveting conclusion to the Epic Story of RJ and York! Her worst nightmare has happened…. RJ refuses to believe it, and until she has proof, she’s going to keep searching for answers. And most of all, for the man she loves, even if it means diving into the past he always wanted to keep secret. The kind of secrets that could have set York free. It’ll take a trip back to Russia, to the sketchy and dark history of York’s life to find the clues to the sinister plans of a global terrorist. And the answers that might lead her to a happy ending. Or has it? What if her happy ending is more than a dream? If RJ hopes to save her country—and find out the truth about York—she’ll have to become the high-action, Sydney Bristow spy that she always dreamed of being. But really, does RJ really have what it takes—with, or without the man she loves—to save the world? And if she does…what will be the cost? PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

With over 1.5 million books sold, critically acclaimed USA Today best-selling novelist Susan May Warren is the Christy, RITA and Carol award-winning author of over ninety novels with Revell, Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. Known for her compelling plots and unforgettable characters, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic-suspense, thrillers, rom-com and Christmas novellas.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a paperback set of The Epic Story of RJ and York trilogy.

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 2, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 9, 2022. US only. Items may vary from image. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Excerpts from this book series

If you’re like me, you love reading Susan May Warren’s romantic suspense/action novels. I especially love the way she tells the stories of multiple members of one family in her books, then revisits those characters in future ones. In The Epic Story of RJ and York books, you’ll find humor, adventure, and characters (and a love story) that I know you’ll fall for. Here are some excerpts to whet your appetites for this new series!

EXCERPT ONE

Chapter 1

York wasn’t a coward. Not even a little. Besides, RJ was going to say yes.
It was just that he wanted it to be perfect. In every way—from the ambiance, to the food,
the stroll along the Seine under a twinkle-light sky, even down to the buskers singing
romantic French songs.
Everything had been meticulously planned and was now aligned for the moment he got
down on one knee and asked Ruby Jane Marshall to marry him. Finally.
And really, that was the only reason it had taken him so very long—painfully,
ridiculously, stupidly long for him to propose. Because after a year and a half of chasing
down bad guys—namely, a plot to kill the president by one former vice-president, which
included checking and rechecking their evidence for the federal prosecutor—he was so very
ready to make good on his promise to return to small town Shelly, Montana, and build a life
together.
One that included a front porch view of Lake Shelly, via the gorgeous timber-framed
house he’d put an offer on—a surprise wedding gift for RJ.
Yes, York had it all figured out. Once they’d gotten clear of the trial, he’d booked this trip
to Paris, purchased a beautiful vintage two carat diamond ring, made dinner reservations at
the famed Le Jules Verne restaurant at the Eiffel Tower, with the glittering lights of Paris
sprayed at their footsteps. And tonight, during their romantic after dinner walk, he’d tell her
how she’d changed his life.
How, somehow, despite his losses, the wounds, she’d healed him.
Most of all, that he couldn’t wait one more minute to marry her, if she’d have him. In his mind’s eye, she said yes, of course, and leaped into his arms, and—
It would all end happily, he knew it in his heart.

EXCERPT TWO

She stalked to the window and opened it. Just a Juliet balcony, and not a real one at that,
but bars that jutted from the window, a decoration. And from it, the overflowing flower
boxes.
Better a broken leg than a bullet through the head.
For Pete’s sake, York was really going to kill her.
She put her leg over the edge. The balcony wasn’t wide enough for her body, but she
managed to wedge her leg down into the space, then heave her other leg out, letting it dangle
over the side.
“Close the window after me.”
He was already shutting it.
She leaned away from the window, her wedged leg securing her to the building.
But she looked ridiculous, a part of the greenery, overflowing out of the balcony. Please
don’t let the Frenchman see her.
Worse, the ground was further than she’d imagined.
A car drove by. She looked away, a little horrified at herself.
Inside the room, the door opened, and now she heard French, and not for the first time
wished she’d paid attention in college. But no, she’d focused on honing her Russian, thanks
to her foster sister.
In her next life, the one she lived after she dropped to her death in a backwater French
hamlet, she would learn French.
And, maybe parkour.

Hey—that was it. The next window wasn’t so far away—maybe four feet—and if she
could swing herself out, she could grab the bars, climb onto that, and then let herself out
through the next room.
She leaned out, trying to grab it, but it was still over a foot away.
Fine. She hooked her knee over the edge and tried again. Closer, but still a good eight
inches.
But if she pushed off with her lower foot, and released her hold with her leg—
Yeah, and if she missed, she’d fall to her death.
But maybe she simply hooked her upper foot into the bars, and still pushed off with her
lower leg and then if she fell, she’d just end up upside down.
Which would be ever so perfect.
Oh, next time she suggested she go off alone, she hoped York would remind her that she
wasn’t Sydney Bristow. Not even close.
Steps inside, and she heard shouting.
This couldn’t be good.
She eyed the balcony. Eight inches. She could do this.
Grabbing the railing, she moved her upper leg around the bars and wedged it into the
rails, so she was balancing on the edge, holding on with her hands.
Then, taking a breath, she turned, hooked her foot into the bars.
Please don’t die. Please don’t—
She jumped.
Her heart stopped, her breath caught as she stretched for the other balcony.
Her fingers touched steel. She gave herself another push—
Her foot dislodged but she closed her hands around the bars.
Then, slid.

Hang on!
She reached the bottom of the balcony, jerked and her body fell hard. The fall woofed out
her breath, but she clung to the bars, dangling.
Don’t look down. Don’t—
But the weight of her body cut into her hands, loosening them.
She grunted, swinging her foot up, trying to land it on the wall, but it slipped off. Worse,
the movement jerked her grip and one hand broke free.
She swung away from her perch, her grip burning.
No—no—
It broke free.
And then, she was falling.

Now, enter to win RJ & York’s story! One winner will receive this trio of books. Best wishes!

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

“Far From Home” ~ a JustRead Blog Tour & Giveaway (ends 7/18/22)

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Far From Home by Mabel Ninan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Far From Home Author: Mabel Ninan Publisher: Iron Stream Release Date: July 12, 2022 Genre: Christian / Non-Fiction / Spiritual Growth

Explore the intersection between culture, identity, and faith in this new release from an earthly immigrant who gained a spiritual perspective.

What is my purpose? Why do I exist? A sense of self and belonging are two questions many of us struggle to answer. And what if you are a foreigner in another land? How does one adjust to a new culture? Discover their place in a new society? For Mabel Ninan, born and raised in India and an immigrant in America shortly after marriage, the search for those answers sent her on a journey that led to an unexpected and exciting discovery. God revealed she was not only an earthly immigrant but also a spiritual one, created with a unique calling to impact His kingdom. Mabel’s renewed perspective imbued her with joy and hope, urging her to share the message with others. Drawing from her personal experiences and by examining the lives of biblical heroes, Mabel sheds light on what it means to live as a citizen of Heaven on earth. Far from Home will inspire you to: • Embrace your identity as a foreigner on earth. • Make your home with God. • Find community and common purpose with fellow sojourners.

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born and raised in the minority Christian community in India, Mabel Ninan moved to the US in 2008 shortly after getting married. In nearly thirteen years of her marriage, her family has called ten different places across two continents and seven cities home. The challenges Mabel faced as an immigrant on the move led to a spiritual crisis that drew her nearer to God’s side where she learned valuable lessons about how to live as a citizen of heaven. Her mission is to inspire believers to embrace their pilgrim journey on earth and boldly pursue their heavenly calling. A contributor to Guideposts’ All God’s Creatures: Daily Devotions for Animal Lovers 2022, Mabel’s writings have appeared in The Upper Room, CBN.com, Leading Hearts Magazine, and (in)courage.me. She hosts a YouTube podcast called Immigrant Faith Stories where she shares testimonies of immigrants, refugees, missionaries, and cross-cultural ministry leaders. She has been serving in various roles in women’s ministry for almost a decade. Mabel enjoys reading, traveling, and dancing, but nothing gives her more joy than having conversations about the Bible. Mabel is pursuing M.A. in Theological Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. She lives with her husband, son, and Maltese pup in Northern California.

CONNECT WITH MABEL: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Far from Home, a customized notepad and bookmark (eco-friendly products made by rural artisans in India help sustain endangered art forms and secure livelihoods), access to digital resources (including a recipe booklet, teaching videos, and audio prayers), and a $30 Amazon gift card.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 11, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 18, 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 https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My thoughts about Far From Home

Although Mabel Ninan and I grew up in different cultures and nations, we have ever so much more in common as followers of Christ and, as the Bible says, women whose “citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). Mabel herself was raised in India and then, as a new wife, moved with her husband to America. As anyone who has moved to a new culture or country can attest, one experiences both culture shock and bewilderment over how to operate in a new place. What Mabel did with those experiences, over a period of 13 years, brings readers an incredible book on our identities, our homes, and our place in community. I loved the entire book! But the section on our own identities is the one that spoke to me in an incredible, powerful way.

As a knitter, I appreciated the way the author uses a skein of yarn to illustrate our identities. A length of yarn is comprised of strings twisted together to make a thicker strand, that one then uses for knitting or crocheting. In Mabel’s metaphor, all the parts of our lives (professions, health, family, gifts and calling, even appearance) make up that strand. But when one thread is broken or weakened (or like the Bible’s Job, when ALL of them are), it can and often does impact the entire strand. And even if, in our own lives, just a few or even one strand is altered, it can threaten to change everything about how we perceive ourselves; our lives, our purposes, or even our worth.

How comforting it was to read Mabel’s thoughts about how we can meet those threats to our identity: to hold on to God. When we experience tribulation, we are often shocked. (Or I am!) I forget Peter’s words to first century believers in 1 Peter 4:12: “Dear friends, don’t be bewildered or surprised when you go through the fiery trials ahead, for this is no strange, unusual thing that is going to happen to you.” I am often both bewildered AND surprised! And in fact, some of the severe tribulations that I’ve experienced have rocked both my faith and my own understanding of who I was. I have been, over recent years, rebuilding my own understanding of who I am. How I loved the author’s words here, about how we can do this:

Putting our faith in Him means we rely on Him rather than our own abilities or other people during tough circumstances. When Jesus becomes the center of our attention and affections, the foundation of our identity holds and does not collapse under pressure.

Mabel Ninan, Far From Home: Discovering Your Identity as Foreigners on Earth, p. 18

It is perhaps common, even as followers of Christ, to place our confidence in our own abilities or gifting. We get used to what we can do ourselves. Maybe that’s a human trait! But Jesus invites us to build the foundations of our lives on Him, the solid rock (Luke 6:47-48). Suffering or struggles can blow those illusions of self-reliance, of being enough on our own, away. But God doesn’t permit those hardships in our lives capriciously, or to be unkind, or uncaring. And even though I always want to find THE ONE PARTICULAR REASON why this or that hard thing occurred, we may not know the answers this side of heaven. But we can turn our eyes to God; to His presence and His promises. He is our sure foundation; He promises to never ever leave or forsake us; we are His.

I love how Mabel talks about making Jesus the center of our attention and our affections. So often those are centered around ourselves. But His sweet faithfulness, presence, love, and strength are present; and offered to us instead. So beautiful. And so what I need, always, to be reminded of.

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

“Heirlooms” ~ A JustRead Blog & Review Tour (and giveaway; ends 7/12/22)

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Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Heirlooms by Sandra Byrd, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Heirlooms Author: Sandra Byrd Publisher: Tyndale Release Date: July 5, 2022 Genre: Dual Timeline Fiction, Christian Answering a woman’s desperate call for help, young Navy widow Helen Devries opens her Whidbey Island home as a refuge to Choi Eunhee. As they bond over common losses and a delicate, potentially devastating secret, their friendship spans the remainder of their lives. After losing her mother, Cassidy Quinn spent her childhood summers with her gran, Helen, at her farmhouse. Nourished by her grandmother’s love and encouragement, Cassidy discovers a passion that she hopes will bloom into a career. But after Helen passes, Cassidy learns that her home and garden have fallen into serious disrepair. Worse, a looming tax debt threatens her inheritance. Facing the loss of her legacy and in need of allies and ideas, Cassidy reaches out to Nick, her former love, despite the complicated emotions brought by having him back in her life. Cassidy inherits not only the family home but a task, spoken with her grandmother’s final breaths: ask Grace Kim—Eunhee’s granddaughter—to help sort through the contents of the locked hope chest in the attic. As she and Grace dig into the past, they unearth their grandmothers’ long-held secret and more. Each startling revelation reshapes their understanding of their grandmothers and ultimately inspires the courage to take risks and make changes to own their lives. Set in both modern-day and midcentury Whidbey Island, Washington, this dual-narrative story of four women—grandmothers and granddaughters—intertwines across generations to explore the secrets we keep, the love we pass down, and the heirlooms we inherit from a well-lived life. “This is women’s fiction as it is meant to be written with intriguing characters making decisions that ripple through generations.” – Library Journal, starred review PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bestselling author Sandra Byrd continues to earn both industry acclaim and high praise from readers everywhere. The author of more than fifty books, her work has received many awards, nominations, and accolades, including the Historical Novel Society’s Editor’s Choice award, two Christy Award nominations, Two Library Journal Best Book selections, and inclusion on Booklist’s Top Ten Inspirational Books of the Year list. Her traditionally published books include titles by Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster, Tyndale House Publishers, WaterBrook Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House, and Bethany House. She’s also an independent author.

Sandra loves walking, the beach, cooking and baking, photography, watching Escape to the Country, Fake or Fortune, and Chef’s Table, as well as spending time with family and friends – real and fictional! Connect with Sandra at http://www.sandrabyrd.com, http://www.sandrabyrdbookcoach.com, or through social media platforms. CONNECT WITH SANDRA: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a King Arthur Cinnamon Roll Kit, including the heavy-gauge pan, plus a $25 Starbucks 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 July 5, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 12, 2022. US only. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

My thoughts

How I LOVED reading Sandra Byrd’s Heirlooms. Like the characters’ gifts of flowers, meals, fresh vegetables–really, the gifts of love, I felt that I too was receiving gifts as I read!

I’ve enjoyed many of this author’s books over the years (her French Twist series, her Ladies in Waiting trio, Mist of Midnight, and more) and reread them (sometimes again AND again!) later. And I can tell you that in my life, the rereading only happens when a book particularly strikes my heart, my imagination, or my fancy. Sandra’s books have done all of that for me, and more.

Heirlooms tells the story, in slices of life told in a dual-timeline format, of four women. The slices unfold little by little, as we meet the first two and experience their works and losses (later, we meet those connected to them across the generations). Isolated Helen’s new friend is Eunhee, who’s having a hard time finding her way in Whidbey Island. The fact that she’s Korean has caused prejudice and isolation in post-war America. As the two widows build friendship, they bring more life to each other, in cultivating the wild garden, in cooking, and in meeting the neighbors who reach out to them. They are creating life. And as they do so, faith sidles in.

I loved Sandra’s writing style. Her story unfolds little by little, just as our own lives unfold. God works in small ways and large ways to her characters, just as we see Him doing with us. In fact, I almost felt as though I was receiving rich spiritual blessing and instruction as I read (even though the book is fiction!). What beauty. Sandra invites us into Helen’s and Eunhee’s, Cassidy’s and Grace’s stories by creating both characters and lives we want to invest ourselves in; so first, the beauty of relationship. And then, there’s the beauty of gifting to others what our hands have prepared. Finally, the beauty of God, passed from life to life as each opens her heart to Him and shares what she has gained with those she loves.

Beautiful, beautiful book. (And don’t miss the giveaway! One person will win a fabulous cinnamon roll kit in addition to a generous gift card. I won’t tell you why the rolls are included; you’ll have to read Heirlooms to find out!) You’ll read Heirlooms, and when you’ve completed the book, you’ll feel as though you were a beloved guest at a magnificent feast, showered with delicious food, beautiful fresh floral arrangements, and best of all, love.

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

“Her Darkest Secret” ~ a JustRead Blog Blitz & Giveaway (ends 7/5/22)

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Her Darkest Secret Author: Jessica R. Patch Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired TRADE Release Date: June 28, 2022 Genre: Christian, Psychological Thriller with a romance thread

When a cold-case serial killer returns, FBI special agent Fiona Kelly has one last chance to stop him before he claims the prize he’s always wanted—her. The sight of a goose feather at a murder scene modeled after a children’s poem is enough to make FBI special agent Fiona Kelly’s blood turn to ice. Almost two decades ago, a feather was left with her sister’s body—and with every subsequent victim of the Nursery Rhyme Killer. Now he’s back. Only this time, his latest gruesome murder is a message to the only one who ever got away: Fiona. Finding “Rhyme” is an obsession that’s fueled Fiona’s career—and destroyed her marriage to fellow FBI agent Asa Kodiak. Now Fiona and Asa have to put their past tensions aside and work together one last time. But Rhyme is watching, and catching this killer may force Fiona to reveal her biggest, darkest secret…the one only he knows.

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

 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jessica R. Patch is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author known for her dry wit, signatures twists, and complex characters. She loves reading true crime books, discussing cold cases over chips and salsa with her girlfriends, and hunting down serial killers in her romantic suspense novels and psychological thrillers.

Jessica loves to encourage and inspire people to forward living through her Patch of Hope devotions in her monthly email newsletter. You can join the Patched In community at her website: www.jessicarpatch.com. She resides in the Memphis area with her husband, two young adult children, and her spoiled tri-color Shetland Sheepdog. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent at Books & Such Literary Management. CONNECT WITH JESSICA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Her Darkest Secret, Brain Games WHODUNIT: Solve Crime Scene Puzzles Book, & a Shine cross necklace!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 28, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 5, 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 https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Excerpts from Her Darkest Secret

Doesn’t this book cover (not to mention the title) make you want to dive into this book? Here are some excerpts to whet your appetite even more!

Excerpt #1
Ty reentered. “It’s done. Death investigator is on her way. Apparently she’s been busy this
morning. You want me to come with to interview the husband? You know it’s always the husband.”
“How could it be this time? The feather in her hand.”
Ty shrugged. “I just think you spend that much time with someone…you wanna kill ’em.”
Asa snorted.
“Asa, you don’t have to enlist Fiona’s help, but you owe her a courtesy call.”
Ty was right. But it would ignite a different set of fireworks. The kind that didn’t light up the night
sky, but set emotional fires and burned everything to ash. “It’ll put her on a plane out here. Give me
some time. It won’t hurt anything.” Asa could move past the Fourth of July, then call and inform her
that he was handling things and would keep her updated.
Unfortunately, that wouldn’t be enough for Fiona.
Asa was going to have to pin Scripture verses all over his town house, car and office to keep his
temper in check and his heart guarded.

Excerpt #2
Rhyme easily blended in with the rest of the onlooking crowd.
Asa Kodiak.
The name alone gave him a sour taste on his tongue, but things couldn’t have panned out any
better. Kodiak’s new girlfriend was in charge of the crime scene. Not that it would have mattered
who had been lead—Kodiak would have been called in once they saw Jenny’s body. Saw the feather.
Asa was right now seeing it. A million thoughts flying through his thick skull—one in particular.
Before the day was out, Kodiak would call for Fiona. Tell her he needed her back in Memphis to
work the case, but she’d know that it was Rhyme who had actually beckoned her.
It was time to come home.
To him.

Excerpt #3
While darkness lurked in the halls of God’s house and hypocrisy abounded, light also shined in
people who were trying to live their faith the best they could. The bad had put such a sour taste in
Fiona’s mouth, but seeing people rally together and to love on her when they didn’t even know
her…that gave her hope. Because it turned out hope wasn’t out of reach for those who had the
courage to reach for it. It was an anchor for the soul.

Don’t forget to enter this giveaway for a copy of the book plus a crime scene puzzle book, and a gorgeous cross necklace! (I’d love to win this myself!)

Enjoy! –Wren

“Shadow of Honor” by Ronie Kendig ~ a JustRead Book Review Tour

#sponsor #partner

Recently, I received the newest Ronie Kendig book in “The Droseran Saga” from JustRead Publicity Tours. (It was even signed by the author!) Shadow of Honor‘s gorgeous book cover captivated me immediately–and there was even more to captivate inside the book itself. Let me share more with you about this book, and my impressions of it!

About Shadow of Honor

⇒ Book Name Shadow of Honor

⇒ Author Ronie Kendig

⇒ Publisher Enclave Publishing

⇒ Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3xZFdUJ #ad or Purchase via @justreadtours profile link

Series: Droseran Saga #3
Release Date: June 14, 2022
Genre: Christian Science Fiction / Space Opera

The war he fears may be the very one he’s been called to start.

Held captive, tortured by monsters of a nightmarish alien race, Marco Dusan clings to a final goal: keep these beasts from the Quadrants, even if it means orchestrating his own death. But his dreams betray that singular design. In them his bonded calls to him across lightyears. Does he leave her to fight Symmachia alone, or risk bringing an unwinnable war to every planet in the Quadrants?

On board the alien dreadnought, Eija Zacdari flounders, torn amidst military machinations, prophecies, and an inexplicable bond with one of the fearsome creatures who have imprisoned her friends. Only by uncovering the truth about an ancient conflict now shrouded in deception will she find her place.

Faced with her true identity, Eija sees her purpose snap into focus, and she realizes the war Marco fears may be the very one he has been called to start.

My thoughts about Shadow of Honor

First, I always love Ronie Kendig’s stories. She is so gifted at creating characters and storylines that the reader can deeply engage with. I haven’t read one of her books yet that I didn’t want to get to the ending as quickly as I could! I felt the same way about Shadow of Honor. I loved its characters Isaura, Eija, Marco, and even Dak ‘Ti. I even became interested in some of the characters who clearly needed more personal growth.

So Shadow of Honor would be categorized as a sci-fi/fantasy read; or, as the publisher would say, “a space opera.” In style and in some content, this book reminded me of the original Star Wars trilogy (the ones starting with what’s now called A New Hope); in that it’s got wonderful characters who are up against a wicked force that is MUCH more powerful than they. In terms of world-building I was reminded of Frank Herbert’s Dune, and here’s why. When you read Herbert’s book, you’re introduced to many different story threads and individuals, who possess strikingly varied gifts and abilities. I felt that same quality in Shadow of Honor, but the enormous difference being that Kendig’s characters are aligned with a story of good and evil that believers will recognize immediately, although the main forces have different names than those we’re used to.

One thing I particularly loved about Kendig’s story is that these characters come up eventually against their own fleshly decisions, sometimes made out of pride or moments of deception. I loved the personal revelations that each had to come to, which were so real and not candy-coated at all. I was reminded myself of what it means to walk in both the freedom and liberty of Christ in my own life; to desire and strive to please God rather than myself or others. So interesting to see those same things happen in imagined worlds.

Because I hadn’t read the first two books in “The Droseran Saga” before I read Shadow of Honor, it did take me about fifty pages into the book before I could place the different alien or human races, their gifts and abilities, and where they fit into the bigger saga. I did get there though. And I am VERY interested in reading books 1 and 2 now (Brand of Light and Dawn of Vengeance), as well as hoping that Kendig will decide to continue the saga! (There is an epilogue that made me want to read the epilogue after the epilogue!)

I do recommend Shadow of Honor to you. You’ll be amazed by Ronie Kendig’s world-building abilities, as well as her gift of making you care about those who live in her books. You’ll also be encouraged in your own faith. A wonderful, unusual read!

Enjoy! –Wren

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.