The Sisters of Corinth ~ Review

The Sisters of Corinth

The Emissaries #2

By Angela Hunt

 

This is an interesting read. In this book we are taken to first century Corinth to the home of Narkis Ligus, who is Chief Magistrate. Narkis's home is a blended one and an example of the admonitions about an unequally yoked marriage as he and his daughter, Prima worship the gods of Rome, while his wife, Hester and step-daughter, Mariana worship the Jewish prophet Yeshua.  

This is a story that finds the faith that Hester and Mariana claim to be facing opposition from the Roman Empire, an empire threatened by the love and devotion that the followers of Yeshua don't offer to Rome. Meanwhile the home life of these women mirrors the growing threat as Prima's jealousy and dislike drives her to greater status through a marriage to the local governor's son. And when Prima's hopes are thwarted, well let's just say she is nasty in her dealings to make those in her way pay.

It is interesting watching as these two "sisters" take different paths in life and see the resulting aftermath of their choices. Hope and despair ; love and hate. 

This is the second book in The Emissaries series. Now I will admit I did not know this was the second book in the series and I had no problem getting into the story from the beginning. So don't let that 2 scare you away if you haven't read book one. This was a good book but also sad as one sees the results of Prima's choices, choices made out of jealousy. Highly recommend to those looking for historical fiction about the First Century Church.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

When the new provincial governor arrives in Corinth, the esteemed Chief Magistrate Narkis Ligus, father to Mariana and Prima, is delighted. He sees a golden opportunity to propel himself to greater power and fortune by uniting his and the governor's households through the marriage of one of his beautiful unwed daughters to the governor's firstborn son.

Yet complications quickly arise in Narkis's own family. Mariana, his stepdaughter, holds steadfast faith in Yeshua, rendering her hesitant to marry a man devoted to the Roman gods, despite Narkis's urging. On the other hand, Prima, his daughter by birth, yearns for a life of wealth and status and is willing to go to great lengths to secure a marriage that fulfills her desires--even if it means betraying Mariana to do so.

A Cameo for a Cowgirl ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

A Cameo for a Cowgirl by Carolyn Miller, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

A Cameo for the Cowgirl
Three Creek Ranch #1
By Carolyn Miller

Cassie James is burning her candle at both ends and in the middle, so when newly hired actor Harrison Woods shows up on the set of As the Heart Draws and makes some complaints, she's less than pleased to meet him.

It sounds like a match made in nowhere, right? But 

Cassie's first impression of Harrison as a spoiled, ego-driven star isn't quite right. And his impression of her being a cowgirl wannabe is so far from the truth that these two need to have a do-over and start fresh. But it is not as easy to do in real life as it is in front of a camera.

The longer Cassie is around Harrison, the grumpier she gets; she just can't understand her feelings. But those on the outside of the drama have a sneaking suspicion. But the biggest drawback to Harrison, in Cassie's opinion, is his lack of faith. Now, Harrison isn't completely in the dark about God, but he doesn't need a God who is anything like his father. No thank, no how, no way, count him out. 

As the quiet, simple setting of the period drama works on him, Harrison begins to think about things in a different way. Some of the people he meets at Three Creek Ranch and on the set of As the Heart Draws have a powerful effect on him, including a grumpy cowgirl. 

It is interesting to get into Cassie's mind and see all she is feeling and her confusion about her own attitude. I was glad Harrison's internal debates counterbalanced it. It made the story more compelling to see where each was coming from in the course of their verbal exchanges; not all were argumentative. Both seem eager to prove themselves in what they are doing, seeking worth in their deeds and accomplishments. Overall, this was a good read, and I enjoyed getting to know the James family more. (Read Fire and Ice for their intro.)

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: A Cameo for the Cowgirl
Series: Three Creek Ranch #1
Author: Carolyn Miller
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: June 14, 2024
Genre: Christian Romantic Comedy

Welcome to Three Creek Ranch, home of the James family for over a hundred years, complete with its own Western movie set. 

Franklin James might be a famous pro hockey player, but just because he's Cassie's older brother doesn't mean she wants to step into the limelight. She's too busy helping her dad run the ranch and managing the ranch's movie set, and negotiating with the giant egos of movie stars like Harrison Woods, who's supposed to be filming the new TV series of As The Heart Draws. And while his TV hero characters might be hugely popular, Harrison's real character seems anything but noble. Cassie is convinced he's hiding something, and that this diva's nice guy moments are just an act. 

Can she remind him what being a true hero is all about?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

Also Available

   

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About the Author

Carolyn Miller is a bestselling Australian author of historical and contemporary romance. A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English Literature, and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. Her Regency novels include the Regency Brides and the Regency Wallflowers series. Her contemporary novels include the Original Six and Northwest Ice hockey romance series, the Muskoka Shores romance series, and those in the Independence Islands series. Her stories have been described by Publishers Weekly as "a winsome exploration of life, love and faith" and witty "with snappy repartee that rockets off the page" (Library Journal). Readers enjoy these books that are humorous yet also deal with real issues, such as dealing with forgiveness, the nature of really loving versus 'true love', and other challenges. Her novels can be considered 'inspirational', and may appeal to readers of Christian fiction, who want stories of hope and redemption - with a twist of Aussie humour.

Connect with Carolyn at carolynmillerauthor.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win 

a print book (US only) 

or ebook (where available) 

copy of A Cameo for the Cowgirl 

plus a $20 Amazon gift card!

The full tour schedule is linked below. 

The giveaway begins at midnight on June 12, 2024, 

and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 19, 2024. 

The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the giveaway's close 

and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the prize. 

The giveaway is US only for print. 

Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Cover Reveal for Cornerstone Series ~ Summer

 Today I'm thrilled to be participating in the cover reveal for the SUMMER Cornerstone series coming from Beyond the Bookery beginning this autumn!

 

16 Christian fantasy fairy tale retellings filled with faith, clean romance, danger, and courage from authors Laurie Lucking, Kirsten Fichter, E. G. Bella, Jewel Windall, Saraina Whitney, Rachel Kovaciny, Abigail Kay Harris, Madisyn Carlin, Lucy Peterson, Anna Augustine, Olivia Godfrey, Kendall Hoxsey, K. R. Mattson, C. K. Heartwing,  Kendra E. Ardnek, Katja H. Labonté.

 

Available to pre-order at Amazon. 

Now for the covers for the Summer Collection...

 

 

 

A Summer to Remember ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Summer to Remember by Lisa Phillips, Andrea Christenson, Rebecca Reed, Gina Conroy, Angela Ruth Strong, Carrie Padgett, Tabitha Bouldin, and Bell Renshaw, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

A Summer to Remember is a two-book series, each featuring four stories. The first book, Bright Lights, includes stories by Lisa Phillips, Andrea Christenson, Rebecca Reed, and Gina Conroy. 

I really enjoyed Finally Home by Lisa Phillips, which has a fun link back to her Last Chance County books.  Ashley Monroe has been working for the Police Commissioner and has a reputation for being an Ice Queen. So when Ashley plays a bit of defense, keeping someone out of the commissioner's office, everyone is more than a little surprised, and she becomes the hot gossip topic around town.

Ashley's new notability brings her to the attention of Fire Chief Greyson Frayer, who has his own issues to deal with following an on-the-job injury that left him with scars. 

With a loving aunt on the scene, could these two hurting people find a lasting and healing happily ever after in their futures? Or will the hurts of the past keep them from stepping outside of their comfort zone?

A contemporary romance that will delight anyone who enjoys Hallmark's Romance movies.

Starry Nights is the second book in the A Summer to Remember series, and it features contemporary romances by Angela Ruth Strong, Carrie Padgett, Tabitha Bouldin, and Bell Renshaw.

Angela Ruth Strong's Out of Play finds single mom Rebecca, aka Bex, Lemaire scrambling to find a coach for her 8-year-old daughter's soccer team after she's forced out as a coach. She did a big no-no; her team won by more than 7 points! Yikes and double yikes when the proverbial playbook is thrown at her, and she's out of a volunteer coaching position. 

When Skylar Hayes agrees, reluctantly, to take over coaching the Ladybugs for their 5-week season, he's sure Bex is a fan who wants to make it big on social media by getting a selfie or something. 

News Flash: She has no idea who he is. She just wants to make the coach who kicked her off the team pay by losing again to the Landybugs. When Bex's presence keeps all the other selfie-crazed soccer moms at bay, she is offered the job of assistant coach. Who wouldn't say YES!

But all too soon, Bex learns she and Skylar have different goals for the season ahead - he wants to have, and she wants to win. Do these two opposites attract or repel like magnets? You'll have to get this book to find out. But it was a fun read, and the megaphone Bex pulled out was a fun touch for someone who takes her soccer way too seriously; I mean, these kids are eight years old!

So if you'd like to book the next eight weekends of your summer - this series is the perfect option. One story every weekend equals good reading ahead.

I was provided complimentary copies of these two book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Books

Eight summer novels across 2 volumes.
From Christian fiction’s hottest contemporary romance authors.

Title: Bright Lights
Series: A Summer to Remember #1
Authors: Lisa Phillips, Andrea Christenson, Rebecca Reed, Gina Conroy
Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing, LLC
Release Date: May 16, 2024
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Finally Home - Lisa Phillips 

Ashlynn Monroe knows she has a reputation as the Ice Queen, but being the police commissioner's assistant that rep serves her just fine thank you. When her Aunt Ruby comes to visit from Last Chance County on the anniversary of Ashlynn's mom's death, neither realizes it's a week that will alter both their lives in ways they never imagined. 

 Fire Chief Greyson Frayer followed in his father's footsteps. Saving lives is who he is, but the burn scars he earned along the way seem to have kept him from the life he wants...until he sees a familiar face as if for the first time. Is Ashlynn the future he's been looking for? 

With a romance brewing between Russ and Ruby in the background, Adelynn and Greyson discover the future they've always wanted. And the chance to finally come home.  

Summer at Trillium Lake - Andrea Christenson 

Privileged Athena Vassos is banished to the family’s lake property near Sunset Falls, WI, to “think about” her place in the family’s multimillion-dollar business. She isn’t sure what she wants with her life now that she has finished her graduate degree. 

At the rustic Trillium Lake Bible Camp, Sean Campbell is overwhelmed. He was only supposed to be the deputy director, not much more than a glorified handyman, not running the whole show. 

When a devastating tornado rips through the camp, Sean and Athena need to work together despite their differences.  

Loving the Rodeo Queen - Rebecca Reed 

Quinn Mulroney, former rodeo queen, lost it all. Now, she’s dreaming of becoming a veterinarian while caring for her daughter. She’s never forgotten the one man she called hero. 

Tiago Vargas is seeking his passion, hoping to prove himself to his exacting father. When fate brings Quinn back into his life, he sees a second chance at his first love and offers her a job. 

But she’s not the same woman he rescued. She carries a secret, and if Tiago discovers it, will he still be her hero, or will her hidden life destroy her last shot at happiness?  

Anxious for Love - Gina Conroy 

Event planner Charlee Lovelle, with a talent for creating perfect moments, except her own, is fed up with online dating games. Australian dating coach Maxwell Adams just wants to help people find love and take his business to the next level, not play the dodgy Love Doctor. Both frustrated with the superficiality of modern relationships, Charlee and Maxwell engage in an emotional game of tug-of-war as they embark on separate paths of self-discovery. In a whirlwind of humor, heart, and unexpected connection, they navigate the complexities of romance and relationships, but will they recognize the pull towards each other or will their own inner struggles keep them apart?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Title: Starry Nights
Series: A Summer to Remember #2
Authors: Angela Ruth Strong, Carrie Padgett, Tabitha Bouldin, Bell Renshaw
Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing, LLC
Release Date: June 6, 2024
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Out of Play - Angela Ruth Strong 

When single mom Bex Lemaire is asked to step down as her eight-year-old daughter’s soccer coach for getting too competitive, she’s hoping the new coach will let her assist. Former child star Skylar Hayes agrees to take over the team as research for his comeback role. At first, he mistakes Bex for a raving fan but eventually realizes she's only crazy about soccer, which gives her the skills needed to train him. She's all work, while he likes to play, but together, they just might win.  

Lauren's Second Chance - Carrie Padgett 

Lauren’s Second Chance is a contemporary romance for readers who love sun, sand, and satisfying endings. Lauren and Mason were each other’s first loves, until life broke them apart. A decade later, when the opportunity arises to appear with Mason on a reality show, Lauren is conflicted. She needs this show for what it means to a project near to her heart. But can she keep that heart safe from the man who broke it once? Grab your shades and SPF 30 sunscreen to dive into a reality television dating show story where first love is also forever love.  

Her Cowboy Champion - Tabitha Bouldin 

It’s true that money can’t buy happiness. No one knows that better than Sage Rhett after her boyfriend steals her photography business and leaves her penniless. Heartbroken, faith shattered, she returns to Apple Creek–the last place she called home. 

Maverick Pierce is used to people seeing him for the money attached to his family name. As a Pierce, he’s afforded anything that money can buy, but the one thing he wants can never be bought. 

When Sage accepts a job working at the Pierce ranch, Maverick discovers he never stopped loving the fiery cowgirl who broke his heart when she left twelve years ago. If he wants to win her over, he’ll have to do more than flash a little money. This second chance, rags to riches, cowboy romance pits love against responsibility as Sage and Maverick struggle to overcome their history and trust God for a happily ever after. 

Love in the Lyrics - Bell Renshaw 

Liberty “Libby” Taylor has maxed out on space for her equine therapy business. The best way to gain the capital she needs in order to expand requires a bit of subterfuge, but that will also mean pulling one over on her new boss. 

Singer and songwriter Harland Grey left LA for Winter, Montana in the hopes of finding peace from the demons of his not-so-distant past, but purchasing Melody Ranch may not hold the answers he’s looking for. 

Thrown together, sparks fly between the two, but will the secrets kept between them finally be what tears them apart?  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

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About the Authors

 

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of books that span Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She's discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Connect with Lisa at authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Andrea Christenson lives in a Minneapolis, MN suburb with her husband and two daughters. When she is not busy homeschooling her girls, she loves to read anything she can get her hands on. She believes that a great loaf of artistic bread can turn a meal into a masterpiece. Andrea’s prayer is to write stories revealing God’s love.

Connect with Andrea at andreachristenson.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

 

Rebecca Reed loves adventure. From riding race horses to sampling the world's ice cream flavors to writing tales of identity and purpose, she sees obstacles as challenges. You might find her listening to audiobooks on her rural Indiana farm. A wife, mother, and grandmother with a huge, fruit-eating canine, her dream is to bring God glory through fiction that delights readers with compelling, flawed characters whose search for identity and purpose reveals God's truth.

Connect with Rebecca at rebeccareedwrites.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Born and bred in New York, Gina Conroy now lives in the Midwest where she splits her time, and sometimes her personality, as a writer, teacher, and life balance coach. Whether writing fiction or real life stories, Gina infuses faith with fun and hopes her readers take away a satisfying read that delves just beneath the surface.

Connect with Gina at ginaconroy.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

 

Angela Ruth Strong works as a flight attendant, survived breast cancer, and uses her own crazy life experiences as inspiration for the stories she writes. Her books have earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been nominated for a Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon bestsellers. She and her husband also got to play extras when her novel Finding Love in Big Sky was adapted for film. To help aspiring authors, Angela started IDAhope Writers where she lives in Idaho.

Connect with Angela at angelaruthstrong.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Carrie Padgett has lived in every part of California, and currently writes from her office with a view of the Sierra Nevada. She thinks nuts take up room where chocolate ought to be and chips and dip should be its own food group. She and her husband have been married for far longer than most reality shows last. She has two daughters, two sons-in-law, and six grandkids who call her Grammie.

Connect with Carrie at carriepadgett.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

 

Tabitha Bouldin has a bachelor's degree in creative writing/English from Southern New Hampshire University. She is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author and an avid reader. When she's not homeschooling her kids, you'll find her curled up with a book. Tabitha's genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart.

Connect with Tabitha at tabithabouldin.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Bell Renshaw is a pen name for Emilie Haney. She grew up in the Pacific Northwest and has a love for the outdoors that matches her love for the written word. She turned her passion for stories toward writing at an early age, finding entertainment and adventure in made-up worlds fed by the books her parents read to her as a child. Now, she's still getting lost in those worlds but they are of her own making.

She believes that—no matter what—love fights for what's right. 

Connect with Bell/Emilie at emiliehaney.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each win paperback copies of both Bright Lights and Starry Nights.

(4) additional winners will each win ebook copies of both Bright Lights and Starry Nights.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 3, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 10, 2024. 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 for print copies. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Shattered Resistance ~ Review

Shattered Resistance

The Shattered Lands #3

By Madisyn Carlin

 

The All Lands War has torn the lands apart and only now some signs of recovery are starting to be seen. But a threat has been encroaching on the lands and certain people are being targeted by the enemy, including Elmery Nemorio, a librarian. Unfortunately for her the person assigned to protect her is Vladic Cindari, former Night Guard.

Naturo Endarison, king of the Coastlands, knows war in coming but has no idea how to stop it. He isn't ready to be king but his father's death left him with no choice. He must protect his kingdom, his family, and his people but until he can learn where the threat is coming from it seems an impossible task.

Myranthe Delmare is leaving her island home behind to help her discover just who King Naturo Endarison is. Is he worthy of her family's support? What she discovers will determine what path her people will take.

This is a wonderful addition to the Shattered Lands series, which is best read after reading the previous books in the series, though it can be enjoyed without first doing so. 

War is a constant throughout this book - both its aftermath and the threat of its ever-looming presence. The brutality of it is not shied away from, nor is the hope that it will not return. The main characters are all dealing with how their experiences from past conflicts have shaped them. Vladic and Naturo experienced it first hand, Myranthe through the impact it made upon her island home, and Elmery through books she has read. And each will have a role to play in what is coming. But there will be lessons that have to be learned if they are to fulfill the destiny that is theirs to claim but only if they can learn to rely on the King who is their Father.

 

Excellent reading that is not to be missed. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Some secrets are best left hidden…

Librarian Elmery Nemorio has no idea why a group of deranged lunatics want her dead, but she does know she will lose her sanity if she has to spend one more minute with her sarcastic bodyguard, Vladic Cindari. Unfortunately, as danger grows and more attempts on her life are made, she begins to suspect Vladic is the least of her worries. Forced from her home and into a life of peril and secrecy, Elmery doesn’t know what the next days will bring. Joined by the annoying Vladic, she finds herself immersed in a renewed battle not only for her home, but for all the lands. When she uncovers information best left unknown, will it help win the war or bring harm to those she loves?

Shattered Resistance is a New Adult Christian fantasy Little Mermaid retelling, and is the third book in The Shattered Lands series.

The Shattered Lands
Shattered Revision - Prequel (Available for Preorder)
Shattered Reflection - Book One
Shattered Reaction - Book Two
Shattered Resistance - Book Three
Shattered Redemption - Book Four (Available for Preorder)
Shattered Risk - Novella (Coming late 2025)

 

Cover Reveal for Cornerstone Series ~ Spring

Today I'm thrilled to be participating in the cover reveal for the SPRING Cornerstone series coming from Beyond the Bookery beginning this autumn!

 

16 Christian fantasy fairy tale retellings filled with faith, clean romance, danger, and courage from authors Laurie Lucking, Kirsten Fichter, E. G. Bella, Jewel Windall, Saraina Whitney, Rachel Kovaciny, Abigail Kay Harris, Madisyn Carlin, Lucy Peterson, Anna Augustine, Olivia Godfrey, Kendall Hoxsey, K. R. Mattson, C. K. Heartwing,  Kendra E. Ardnek, Katja H. Labonté.

 

Available to pre-order at Amazon. 

 

Now for the first four covers!

 

 

 

 

Desert Manna ~ Series Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the 

Desert Manna series by Karen Baney, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

The Desert Manna series by Karen Baney is set in Prescott, Arizona in the early 1870s. There are three books in this series that is considered A Christian Historical Western Cowboy Romance. (I know a bit of a mouthful but it fits). Faith is a definite thread throughout all three books. And if you like romance with more than a chaste kiss at the end of the book this series is for you. (I prefer less kissing. Much less and not so soon in the relationship, but that's just me) There is something about the style of this series that reminds me of Elaine L. Schulte's California Pioneers series.

Now to the individual books.

Beauty for Ashes is the first book in the series. We are introduced to Rebecca Elliot, who has been widowed for about seven years. She lost her husband to the Civil War and has been a single mother to her son his whole life. But she is now leaving the years of struggle behind as she joins her brother Alexander Glassman in Prescott, Arizona. 

Before the stagecoach Rebecca is traveling on reaches its destination, they come upon a horrific scene and find Perry Quinn hurt and left for dead, his ranch destroyed. Called upon to nurse Perry until they reach Prescott, Rebecca finds herself drawn to Perry's plight, one not so very different than what she had faced. 

As Perry struggles to find his place in Prescott, he finds himself drawn to Rebecca, while trying to deny it. Perry's injuries and loss of all he owned have shaken the foundations of his life. Can he find a new way or will he allow the anger he feels to cause him to take action against those he feels responsible? With Rebecca willing to help him with a kind word and her gentle spirit, can he find a new purpose in his life?

Joy for Morning is the second book in the Desert Manna series and it takes place in 1872. Grace Talbert refuses to be a pawn in her father's drive to further his ambitions. After her mother dies there is no one to stand up to her father and run interference between them. Grace has no desire to marry any of the highly eligible suitors her father deems worthy, not of Grace, but of connecting their name to his. 

Grace's passion is helping those in need and spending much of her time heading the Women's Aid Society to improve the living conditions of the local widows and Indians. She's not willing to give up her work for any man, and when Joshua Harrison warns that aiding the Indians is dangerous they find themselves at odds. But they just might be what the other needs, but only if they try to see the other's point of view.  When tragedy strikes they'll have to rely on their faith to see them through.

Oaks of Justice the third and final book of the series finds Mel (Melissa) Larson practicing law under her mentor when a threat to her life causes him to send her back home to Prescott. Her first case finds her going up against the newly elected DA Alexander Glassman. Sparks are about to fly as Mel and Alex face off in the courtroom. 

But after the dust settles we learn more of Alex Glassman's story. In the first two books, he's a character who we only know as a lawyer but we get to see the man who isn't the lawyer. He hasn't found someone to love. He has interests outside of law. He was a disappointment to his late father. And he'll do anything to keep those he loves safe. 

All three books are historical fiction with an emphasis on the romance that runs throughout. In each, the main characters face periods of trial, which makes their romance all the more meaningful to them. Loss, death, and uncertainty all drive the stories to their conclusion. The books are well-written but I found all the kissing a bit much and actually detracted my enjoyment of the books. But, that being said, I would gift these to family members who would enjoy them and are less "prudish" than me (their words, not mine, though I don't object to the statement).    

I was provided a complimentary copy of these books with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.                                                                                                                                                                          

About the Books

Title: Beauty for Ashes
Series: Desert Manna #1
Author: Karen Baney
Publisher: Desert Life Media
Release Date: March 7,2022
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Uplifting Historical Christian Romance Fiction set in Prescott, Arizona in 1871. 

As a widow who lost her husband in Sherman’s fiery march to the sea, Rebecca Elliot struggled to provide for her son. When she hears from her brother in Prescott, Arizona, she makes the journey west to start over. An unexpected tragedy on the last leg of her travels changes the trajectory of her heart and life as she never could have imagined. 

Perry Quinn finally said goodbye to his late wife when his life is turned upside down. When he loses everything that he worked hard to accomplish, he must humble himself and start over while trying to find the answers to why he lost everything. Along the way, a kind woman steals his heart and reminds him that there is beauty in the middle of the ashes of his life. 

Will he let go of his grief to find true love?  

If you like these authors, you'll enjoy this book too: Tracie Peterson, Tamera Alexander, Karen Witemeyer, Lacy Williams, Jodi Hedlund, Misty M. Beller

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

Title: Joy for Mourning
Series: Desert Manna Series #2
Author: Karen Baney
Publisher: Desert Life Media
Release Date: April 25, 2022
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Historical Christian Romance Fiction set in Prescott, Arizona in 1872. 

Grace Talbert spurns every suitor her father finds. She longs for the spark of romance and is unwilling to settle for something less. Her passion is running the Women’s Aid Society, which organizes many charitable events to help the poor and the Indians. When a trip to deliver goods to the reservation leaves her stranded with a handsome stranger, she discovers the love she longed for. 

After many years of wandering and building up his freight business, Joshua Harrison decides to return to Prescott. As bachelor, he is ill-equipped to raise the orphaned daughter of a friend. He hopes the stable life of a small town will bring what he needs to become a good father. Having failed at love twice, he is afraid to try again, until he is stranded with the unconventional and beautiful Grace Talbert. 

Can he move past his heartache to open himself to love again?  

If you like these authors, you'll enjoy this book too: Tracie Peterson, Tamera Alexander, Karen Witemeyer, Lacy Williams, Jodi Hedlund, Misty M. Beller

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Title: Oaks of Justice
Series: Desert Manna Series #3
Author: Karen Baney
Publisher: Desert Life Media
Release Date: June 24, 2022
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Gripping Historical Christian Romance Fiction set in Prescott, Arizona in 1873. 

Mel Larson is used to being underestimated as a female attorney. When her life is threatened, her mentor takes her home to Prescott. As the defense attorney for her innocent client who is on trial for murder, she goes head-to-head with the new District Attorney. When she apologizes to him for using some unconventional tactics, sparks fly, and she finds a love she had not been looking for. 

Alex Glassman was ready to settle down but after a failed courtship, he doubted if he would ever find the right match. When a major court case falls into his lap, he is unprepared to argue the case against a fiery red-headed woman. When the case is over and he humbles himself to admit his mistakes, his heart is captured, and he dares to hope that she could be the one. 

When Mel's life is threatened, can Alex save her in time?  

If you like these authors, you'll enjoy this book too: Tracie Peterson, Tamera Alexander, Karen Witemeyer, Lacy Williams, Jodi Hedlund, Misty M. Beller

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Buy the Complete Series in One Volume

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About the Author

Karen Baney is passionate about writing stories full of flawed characters. She enjoys weaving together stories of second chances, redemption, and overcoming personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, she loves researching the state’s history and finding ways to seamlessly incorporate real history and real settings into her novels. In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry.

Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. Both Jim and Karen are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona. 

Connect with Karen by visiting karenbaney.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each win signed copies of all 3 books in the Desert Manna series plus a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 6, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 13, 2024. 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Be Still My Soul ~ Review

Be Still, My Soul

Mysteries of the West #1

By Faith Blum

Read by Brantley Brumley

Be Still, My Soul is an intriguing read. The story is told primarily from Carsten's viewpoint. As a young boy, Carsten was taught thievery by his father. Carsten was skilled at it until the night he was caught in the act. Since that day, Carsten has changed for the better. But after his father is caught and convicted, the townsfolk view Carsten with suspicion, and when a robbery occurs, Carsten is the one and only suspect. What's worse, the marshal seems to have no intention of finding the true criminal. 

Carsten is determined to clear his name, but accepting help isn't easy for Carsten, even when his friends offer it. When it becomes clear that more is going on than theft, Carsten and his friends soon find themselves in even more danger than they had ever expected and need help. But will the help they need arrive in time? Or will Carsten be convicted of a crime he didn't commit because of the crimes of his father? Trust is a two-way street and is a lesson that Carsten and his friends need to learn.

This book would, in my opinion, appeal to homeschoolers. The main characters are all young adults who are trying to figure life out but with a faith-based support system. I feel that Susan K. Marlow is the author whose work I would most closely compare the style and feel of this story to. Anyone familiar with her Circle C and Goldtown series should enjoy this first book in the Mysteries of the West series. 

I enjoyed this book in the audio edition, which was read by Brantley Brumley. The reading was well presented, though I played it 1.5 times the normal speed as I read faster than the playback speed. At less than 4 hours, this is a perfect road trip companion, especially for those "Are we there yet?" riders. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Be Still, My Soul
Series: Mysteries of the West #1
Author: Faith Blum
Publisher: Wild Blue Wonder Press
Release Date: November 20, 2023
Genre: Christian Western

"Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour." - Ephesians 4:28

When Carsten Whitford is arrested for a robbery he didn't commit, he struggles to clear his name that's already stained by his father's arrest from four years ago. Carsten is the sole supporter of his mother and he works the farm he has lived on his whole life.

The day after his arrest, Carsten's mentor gets him released until the trial. Carsten and his three friends work together to prove he didn’t rob the store since no one, especially the town marshal, seems interested in finding out who is truly guilty. The townspeople assume he is guilty because of his father’s past, including the girl Carsten wants to court.

Will Carsten and his friends find out who truly robbed the store or will they find something more sinister that could even lead to their own deaths? 

The Christy Award 2023 Finalists

Welcome to the Blog Blitz for The Christy Award Finalists 2023 organized by ECPA and hosted by 

JustRead Publicity Tours! We extend our sincere and enthusiastic congratulations to 

The Christy Award 2023 Finalists & Winners!

YOU ARE INVITED

The Christy Award Gala 2023
Via webcast
November 16, 2023 | 7 pm CT

Featuring Chris Fabry, Davis Bunn, Janette Oke, 

and a host of Christy-winning authors

Hosted by Christy Hall of Fame author Chris Fabry, the Christy Award Winners Gala will be held 

Thursday, November 16th at 7pm CT via free webcast to recognize the finalists and announce the winners 

of The Christy Award in nine categories, Book of the Year, and Amplify Award. The event will feature two 

literary greats, Christian fiction legacy authors Janette Oke and Davis Bunn. Award presenters will include 

Christy winning authors Amanda Cox, Toni Shiloh, Nicole Deese, Patricia Raybon, Jocelyn Green,

  Sarah Sundin, Terri Blackstock, Karen Witemeyer, Sharon Hinck,

 and Kara Swanson.

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The Christy Award Finalists 2023

CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

A Seaside Wonder by Melissa Tagg (Larkspur Press)
All That It Takes by Nicole Deese (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
To Believe in You by Emily Conrad (Hope Anchor LLC)
To Win a Prince by Toni Shiloh (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)

FIRST NOVEL

    

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
The Forgotten Life of Eva Gordon by Linda MacKillop (Kregel Publications)
Porch Music by Kathy Maresca (TouchPoint Press Faith)

GENERAL FICTION

   

 

By Way of the Moonlight by Elizabeth Musser (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
When Stone Wings Fly by Karen Barnett (Kregel Publications)
Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)

HISTORICAL

   

 

All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
The Hidden Prince by Tessa Afshar (Tyndale House Publishers)
Within These Walls of Sorrow by Amanda Barratt (Kregel Publications

HISTORICAL ROMANCE

 

The Italian Ballerina by Kristy Cambron (Thomas Nelson Publishers)
The Rose and the Thistle by Laura Frantz (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
Yesterday's Tides by Roseanna M. White (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)

MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER

 

By Way of Deception by Amir Tsarfati and Steve Yohn (Harvest House Publishers)
Cold Light of Day by Elizabeth Goddard (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
Forged by Sara Davison (Mountain Brook Ink)
The Souls of Lost Lake by Jaime Jo Wright (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)

SHORT FORM

 

 

Always a Lady (in A Return to Hawthorne House) by Kristi Ann Hunter (Oholiab Creations, LLC)
Hopes and Fears (in O Little Town) by Amanda Wen (Kregel Publications)
Kiss Me on Christmas by Sarah Monzon (Sarah Monzon)

SPECULATIVE

    

Drawn in Ash by John W. Otte (John W. Otte)
Dream of Kings by Sharon Hinck (Enclave Publishing, a division of Oasis Family Media)
Yesterday's Gone by Cindy Woodsmall & Erin Woodsmall (Tyndale House Publishers)

YOUNG ADULT

   

 

 

Blood Secrets by Morgan L. Busse (Enclave Escape, a division of Oasis Family Media)
This Dreamer by Sara Watterson (Sara Watterson)
The Whisperer's Wish by Janilise Lloyd (Scrivenings Press)
Wishtress by Nadine Brandes (Thomas Nelson)
The Wonderland Trials by Sara Ella (Enclave Escape, a division of Oasis Family Media)

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive their choice of The Art of Writing registration OR print copies of 

The Christy Award finalist titles for one category!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. 

The giveaway began at midnight October 27, 2023, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on November 3, 2023. 

The 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

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REGISTER FOR THE CHRISTY AWARD 2023 EVENTS

The Art of Writing webinars on Thursday evenings, 7 p.m. CT $69
online October 19, October 26, November 2, November 9
This virtual conference for writers, storytellers, and publishing curators includes access and
recordings to four webinars organized by publishers.

The Christy Award winners webcast on November 16 at 7 p.m. CT. - free but registration is required.
Celebrate this year's finalists and winners with authors, editors, publishers, and readers!

REGISTER

The Christy Award® is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) and is

 the foremost award honoring and promoting excellence in Christian fiction since 1999. For more 

information about ECPA, visit ECPA.org. For more information about the Christy Awards and 

Art of Writing conferences, visit ChristyAwards.com or email TheChristyAward@ecpa.org

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