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Showing posts with label Thomas Nelson. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thomas Nelson. Show all posts

6.18.2026

Read, Write, Rendezvous ~ Spies, Lies, & Alibis Book Review with Giveaway

Read Write Rendezvous '26 JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour that brings 
Rendezvous 2026 to you, hosted, sponsored, and organized by 


Spies, Lies, and Alibis
By Natalie Walters
Narrated by Andrew Eiden
   and Dominique Salvacion

Cybil Langford and Ben Bradley haven't seen each other in years, but now they keep running into each other in the middle of their assignments. Assignments that involve ruthless crime bosses, Russian oligarchs, brutal killers, and secrets that keep them both wondering what the other is doing. Both suspect the other of having changed for the worst or being deceived by the people they are working for.

Cybil has worked to be more than her upbringing, to get above the debts attached to her name. She isn't a spy, not in the traditional sense, but her current situation finds her in deeper than she's ever been before. Ben's presence is an unexpected complication she doesn't expect or need. But she can't deny that she is still attracted to him.

Ben is in it deep, determined to bring down the man the FBI has been after. But when Cybil is drawn into the investigation, he feels he has to protect her from a life she doesn't know she's fallen into. But Cybil is different than he remembered but still able to distract him.

There are moments that are humorous - Cybil seems to be accident prone. But not everything is snappy repartee and laughable moments, there are moments that are serious and intensely serious. It is the perfect balance for an enjoyable read and I enjoyed it also as an audiobook - which adds an additional touch to the story, added depth. 

BTW Ben's grandmother is a hoot and thankfully, absolutely nothing like my own was. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Thank you to Libro.fm for the audiobook review (ALC) copy of Spies, Lies, & Alibi's 

 

About the Book:

They were each other's first love. Now they might be each other's last hope. Perfect for fans of Ally Carter, Spies, Lies, and Alibis is an unputdownable binge-fest, full of laughs, heart, and mischief.

Cybil Langford has spent years hiding behind her polished, professional facade as the executive assistant to a powerful real estate mogul, where she's perfectly positioned to collect intel on her boss's criminal network. But when her mission leads her into the path of Lorenzo Ramirez--a ruthless crime boss with deadly plans--she'll need every ounce of cunning and charm to stay one step ahead.

Then he walks back into her life.

Ben Bradley is deep undercover for the FBI, living under an alias, as a financial advisor with a reputation for helping the wealthy and corrupt launder their money. His target? Lorenzo Ramirez, a dangerous crime boss with his hands in everything from smuggling to murder. But when a familiar face from his past suddenly reappears, things get . . . complicated.

The last time Cybil saw Ben, he was an annoying prankster--and her first crush. The last time Ben saw Cybil, she stole a piece of his heart. Neither expected to run into each other at a high-stakes fundraising gala where crime, corruption, and undercover agendas collide.

Forced to work dangerously close, neither knows the other's true agenda. Cybil sees the boy who once broke her heart, now a man whose motives are deeply suspect. Ben sees the woman he never got over but can't determine if she's an innocent caught in the crossfire or a willing accomplice. As they navigate a world of spies, lies, and fragile alibis, they must dismantle the walls around their hearts.

The intel is classified. The trust is fragile. And their covers are one lie away from blowing wide open.

Available for purchase at Amazon, Barnes Noble, and Christian Books


About the Author:

Natalie Walters is a bestselling and award-winning author who loves thrilling adventure, quick-witted characters, fun banter, and romantic tension with all the sizzling chemistry. Fighting the bad guys with her words, her stories blend humor, suspense, heart, and hope—served with a side of danger. She writes Sweet and Stabby suspense for readers who crave plot twists, emotional stakes, and just enough mischief to make you wonder if that shovel in the trunk is for gardening… or something else.





Bringing Rendezvous '26 to You!

Rendezvous: reader and writer gathering November 7, 2026 
Holiday Inn Nashville Airport

Readers and Writers will gather at the fourth annual Read Write Rendezvous, organized and sponsored by JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC, on November 7, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT at the Holiday Inn Nashville Airport. Rendezvous celebrates Christian fiction and sweet reads, featuring corporate worship, speaker sessions, author panels, small-group discussions, games, giveaways, a pop-up bookshop, and book signings. This event aims to sweeten reading and storytelling experiences with fellowship and encouragement. Over forty featured authors are participating, including The Christy Award Hall of Fame and bestselling author Tamera Alexander who will deliver the keynote address. USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author Lisa Phillips will lead worship. We will announce several more authors in the coming weeks! We prayerfully honor the legacy of the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat through each Rendezvous event, and this year we are especially celebrating the very first CFRR which was held 10 years ago in Nashville. Rendezvous is open only to registered attendees. Want to extend your reader getaway? The Christy Award Gala and Art of Writing conference will be held at a nearby venue on November 6.

Learn more about the 2026 Rendezvous

If you're unable to attend Rendezvous this year, we don't want you to miss out on getting to know our authors and their books. Our bloggers are bringing Rendezvous to you by spotlighting several of the participating authors this week. Follow along to grow your TBR list to astronomical proportions!  

Check out recent releases by these participating authors in the JustRead Amazon Storefront.


Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $30 gift card 
(winner’s choice of Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook, or Baker Book House)!
Rendezvous '26 blog tour giveaway JustRead Tours

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 15, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 22, 2026. Winners 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

10.09.2025

Sense and Suitability ~ Review with Giveaway

Sense and Suitability Takeover + Review Blitz
Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for 
Sense and Suitability by Pepper Basham, 

Sense and Suitability

Sense and Suitability 
By Pepper Basham 

Two years ago, Emmeline Lockhart's heart was broken. He had promised to ask for her hand. Then he left with her reputation in shatters. Now under her aunt's insistence she is entering her third season. Aunt Bean has declared Emme will end the season with a husband. But with her literary secret Emme sees no need to settle for anything less than love. She isn't about to be tempted by her aunt's list of eligible men. 

Simon Reeves thought life was perfect, until it all crumbled around him, just like the estate he's inherited. With his assumed debt growing every day Simon needs to marry well. If only his heart did not lead him back to the only woman he's ever loved. The woman whose heart he broke. The woman who says she now despises him. If only he could believe her, he might be satisfied with marrying out of duty.

This is a fun and enjoyable Regency read, sweet and clean. As much as I loved Emme and Simon's story I really loved Emme's cousin Thomas. I loved his protective but good-natured personality. And Simon's younger siblings, goodness what a handful. And some of their antics. I can so see this. I loved how the author brought Jane Austen's works into this story. Loved this book with its blend of humor and seriousness, and would love if this became a series the characters are that engaging.


I was provided a complimentary copy with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book

Title: Sense and Suitability 
Author: Pepper Basham 
Publisher: Thomas Nelson 
Release Date: September 23, 2025 
Genre: Clean Regency Romance (Rom-Com) 

In this clean Regency romance, a woman with a scandalous past (and an even more scandalous secret) swears off love--until the man who broke her heart needs her help. What could possibly go wrong? 

After two failed social seasons, her family may think the third time will be a charm, but Emmeline Lockhart just wants to survive with her dignity (and singleness) intact. She thought she'd found her perfect match in Simon Reeves--charming, handsome, a veritable hero from a novel--until he vanished from her life without so much as a "farewell" or "my deepest regrets" (or even a vague apology scribbled on the back of a calling card). Lesson learned: never fall for a man known for his charm. 

Fortunately, and unlike many of the other eligible young ladies of the ton, Emmeline has no need for a husband--because she's already found success in her scandalous (and very anonymous) profession as an author. Why bother with matrimony when she can make her own fortune and write men exactly the way she wants them? 

But fate--or the misfortune of Simon's reckless patriarchs--has other plans. Simon's once-proud estate is in shambles, his family fortune has been gambled away, and the younger impressionable siblings in his care are running wild across his estate (and possibly across all of England). Simon is in desperate need of a wealthy, prestigious bride . . . and a friend. 

Emmeline may not fit the role of heiress, but she can certainly be a friend. Just a friend. She'll help him find a suitable match, ensure his reputation remains intact, and keep things strictly platonic--no matter how dangerously appealing his new-and-improved sincerity and regret may be. 

There's just one small problem: the undeniable chemistry that still smolders between them. Can Emme play matchmaker for the man she's still in love with without losing her heart all over again? And is it possible that some love stories--especially the messy, inconvenient, impossible ones--are worthy of a rewrite? 

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

Also Available:

Some Like it Scot Authentically, Izzy

Positively, Penelope Loyally Luke


Pepper Basham

About the Author

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Writing both historical and contemporary novels, she loves to incorporate her native Appalachian culture and/or her unabashed adoration of the UK into her stories. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of southwestern VA, where she is the wife, mom to five great kids, a speech-language pathologist, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

Connect with Pepper by visiting www.pepperdbasham.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.




Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive a signed copy of Sense and Suitability (or winner's choice of Pepper Basham's books) and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Sense and Suitability JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 9, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 16, 2025. 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

8.19.2025

Vanished ~ Review and Giveaway

Vanished JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for 
Vanished by Dr. David Jeremiah with Sam O'Neal, 

Vanished
Vanished
The Vanished Series #1
By Dr. David Jeremiah with Sam O'Neal 

Vanished opens with the world in turmoil: pandemics, war, famine, and natural disasters have ravaged it. Covid-19 was only the beginning, each successive world sweeping illness has become harder to tackle, and the newest is seemingly unstoppable. John (Haggs) Haggerty has been tasked with the special military unit to contain it. Haggs see it as a challenge that he must defeat. But when the newest deadly strain is found elsewhere Haggs and his team are sent in to contain it. Yeah doesn't go to plan. Nope natural disaster strikes and those rumors of war? They are no longer  rumors. 

Adding to the professional stress, is Haggs's guilty. Guilt over a death he could have prevented, over his failed marriage, and his non-existent relationship with his now grown daughter. Haggs wants to change but he's not entirely sure where to begin. His family and best friend know that what he needs is to establish a relationship with God, but that means surrendering the control he holds to. But then it happens and control means nothing in the suddenly changed world Haggs finds himself living in.

This book uses current world events to predict a not so distant possible future where everything is more challenging in the ability to survive from day-to-day. Think Left Behind (Jerry Jenkins) meets The Shepherds (Andrews and Wilson) and get an idea of what this book is about. There is an unending intensity that drives the book, and Hagg, to its conclusion. The cover for this book is perfect for what happens - a world in turmoil. This is a page-turner as disaster follows disaster. Almost makes one not want to get out of bed after seeing the news!

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: Vanished
Series: The Vanished Series #1
Author: Dr. David Jeremiah with Sam O'Neal 
Publisher: Thomas Nelson 
Release Date: June 30, 2025 
Genre:
Christian Fiction

New York Times bestselling author Dr. David Jeremiah's theological insights are already valued by millions of readers. Now he brings that same depth to novels that explore the end of the world...

As leader of a special military unit charged with stopping potential pandemics before they spread, John "Haggs" Haggerty has a front-row seat to the sharp increase in natural disasters that precede the Rapture--including plagues, earthquakes, famines, wars, and rumors of war. And each crisis is becoming more intense. 

Meanwhile, his own world feels like it's falling apart. He's still caught in the grief of messing up his relationship with his ex-wife, and he's trying to keep it together so that he can show up for his adult daughter before she wants him out of her life entirely. As both personal and professional situations push him to the brink, Haggs finds himself stretched further than ever in his desire to be the kind of good person he knows he should be. 

 Just when it seems as if things might turn around, Haggs is forced to decide between his need to find solutions and his need for personal redemption.  

Vanished is Left Behind for a new generation--apocalyptic action and emotion that's infused with Dr. Jeremiah's perspective and compassion.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | DavidJeremiah.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub


About the Author

Dr. David Jeremiah
Dr. David Jeremiah is the founder of Turning Point, an international ministry committed to providing Christians with sound Bible teaching through radio and television, the Internet, live events, and resource materials and books. He is the author of more than fifty books, including The Book of Signs, The Great Disappearance, Where Do We Go from Here? and The Coming Golden Age.

Dr. Jeremiah serves as the senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church in El Cajon, California. He and his wife, Donna, have four children and twelve grandchildren.

Connect with Dr. Jeremiah by visiting davidjeremiah.org to follow him on social media and sign up for email updates.


 

(3) winners will each receive a signed copy of Vanished
an NIV Jeremiah Study Bible, 
and a Dr. David Jeremiah Daily Devotional Living in His Light!
Vanished blog tour giveaway JustRead Tours
Full tour schedule linked below. 
The giveaway begins at midnight August 18, 2025 
and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 25, 2025. 
Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway 
and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. 
No shipping restrictions. 
Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

9.11.2024

The Cloverton Charade ~ Review

The Cloverton Charade
The Houses of Yorkshire #3
By Sarah E. Ladd

Olivia Brannon lives in the world of antiques. Her father stoked her interest in rare and unique pieces and promised her the chance to see the world. But since his death the family business has been in her uncle's less than capable hands.

When Olivia and the son of her father's former business partner are invited to the same house party a family/business feud is revived. Both are appraising parts of the Cloverton Estates vast holdings. But when some concerns arise Olivia and Lucas Avery must work together to determine what is going on. 

The Cloverton Charade is a delightful read. Deception and intrigue abound at this Regency House Party. Oh what a web has entrapped those who now call the Cloverton Hall home. There are twists that will keep you wondering just what is going on behind the elegant facade of genteel civility. 

Sarah Ladd can weave a story that will capture and hold your attention from cover to cover. Her stories never disappoint. This book is part of The Houses of Yorkshire series but it can easily be read as a standalone title. The book is a clean read in the romance department, a must in my opinion.

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:

A long-held family feud reignites when two rival antiquities brokers arrive at the same house party in Regency England.

Olivia Brannon knows her goals are unconventional. As a young woman in Regency England, her best bet—according to society—is to marry well and secure a steady future for herself. But Olivia has never been interested in convention. She’d prefer to follow in her deceased father’s footsteps and journey to foreign lands in search of rare and valuable antiquities.

Eager to make a name for herself in the antiquities world, Olivia jumps at an invitation to join a wealthy widow at the famed Cloverton Hall to evaluate her private antiquities collection. Secrecy of the task is vital, and in order to conceal her efforts Olivia must pretend to be a house party guest to avoid suspicion and to explain her presence.

Lucas Avery, whose father was a rival of Olivia’s father, has also arrived at the Cloverton Hall house party, hired by the new master of Cloverton Hall—the widow’s nephew—to appraise the renowned Cloverton Hall collection. When Lucas discovers Olivia masquerading as a party guest while covertly conducting her own assessment, he’s keen to renew the family rivalry. But as their paths frequently cross, he’s unprepared for the effect the refreshingly honest—and beautiful—Olivia has on him.

Yet all is not as it seems. Both Olivia and Lucas are shocked by the astonishing discovery of counterfeit pieces, and when the unexpected occurs, everyone is a suspect . . . and Olivia and Lucas both must choose whom they will trust. Only the hidden treasure will allow Louisa and her sister to gain their freedom.

  • Sweet Regency romance set in the same time period as Bridgerton
  • Part of the Houses of Yorkshire series but can be read as a stand-alone novel
  • Book length: 83,000 words
  • Includes discussion questions for book clubs

About the Book:


Sarah E. Ladd
 is an award-winning, bestselling author who has always loved the Regency period—the clothes, the music, the literature, and the art. A college trip to England and Scotland confirmed her interest in the time period, and she began seriously writing in 2010. Since then, she has released several novels set during the Regency era. Sarah is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. She lives in Indiana with her family. 

Visit Sarah online at SarahLadd.com


SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES & HASHTAGS

X: #saraheladd @ThomasNelson @austenprose

Instagram: @sarahladdauthor @thomasnelson @austenprose

Hashtags: #theclovertoncharade #saraheladd #historicalfiction #historicalromance #regencyromance #inspirationalfiction #newbooks #bookreview #bookx #bookstagram #booktour #bookrec #austenprosepr 

8.16.2024

Beyond Ivy Walls ~ Review

Beyond Ivy Walls
By Rachel Fordham

Sadie West has come to Monticello to find work. Her father was injured and the family is doing all they can to save the farm. But it isn't enough and Sadie is sending home whatever she can. Working in the Hoag feather duster factory isn't hard but it is messy work. When she seeks shelter in an abandoned factory she never expected it to change her life for the better.

Otis Taylor is the last living Taylor and this alone brings him back to Monticello. Sent away years ago by his father, the place holds painful memories. While the residents anticipate Otis's return, he hides away in the family home. Secrets and lies have left him scarred. He knows what people see when they look at him and he wants to avoid the pain of their rejection. 

When Sadie and Otis's paths cross it is a chance for both of them to see beyond what life has given them. Can Sadie help Otis see beyond the scars that have shaped him? Or will he cling to the pain and rejection he has known for so long?

Beyond Ivy Walls is an excellent read. This is one of those books one does not want to put down. The contrasting attitudes of both Sadie and Otis with their situations is understandable. Sadie's trying to put a happy feel on what she was experiencing. While Otis has locked himself away from everyone out of fear of further rejection. This story does have elements that make one think of Beauty and the Beast. This book is rich with moments of truth and discovery. And most important through out is family and how they shape us into who we become. I loved the moments with Sadie's family though short they added incredible value to everything especially their love and acceptance, their willingness to sacrifice for what they deemed of value. What lies in the heart is so much more than what is on the surface. I highly recommend this book and feel it would be an excellent book for a book club title. 

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.

 


BOOK DESCRIPTION

Reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast, a recluse and a young woman discover that the scars of life are no match against an act of love.

Iowa, 1903. All of Monticello believes Otis Taylor has been away fostering his musical genius. But the truth is that his father exiled him long ago, rejecting Otis's appearance and the scars that came with it. Now that he is the last living Taylor, Otis has covertly returned to settle his family's affairs and rid himself of his past for good. However, he soon discovers that he may not have been the only discarded Taylor and begins a tireless search for his missing niece.

At twenty-three years old, Sadie West left her family farm and found employment at the Hoag feather duster factory. It isn't a romantic job, but she's hardly had a glimmer of romance since her beau went off to college, leaving her with no promise of a future together. Desperate to save money and help her family make ends meet, she trespasses and finds shelter in an abandoned building--and is thrown in the path of the town's mysterious bachelor.

Otis's wounds are deep, but as Sadie's friendship with him grows, she begins to fall for the man beneath the mask. The mystery of his long-lost niece, however, is more complex than either could have imagined, and Sadie may be the key to Otis Taylor finally finding his way home.

AUTHOR BIO

Rachel Fordham is the author of Where the Road BendsA Lady in AttendanceA Life Once DreamedThe Hope of Azure Springs, and Yours Truly, Thomas. Fans expect stories with heart and she delivers, diving deep into the human experience and tugging at reader emotions. She loves connecting with people, traveling to new places, and daydreaming about future projects that will have sigh-worthy endings and memorable characters. She is a busy mom, raising both biological and foster children (a cause she feels passionate about). She lives with her husband and children on an island in the state of Washington.

8.13.2024

The Winged Tiara ~ Available Now

 Today is The Winged Tiara's Release Day!
You will want to this title by J’nell Ciesielski to your TBR List.



BOOK DESCRIPTION

Diamonds and danger dazzle in Ciesielski's latest enchanting romp through post-war Europe as estranged spouses and jewel thieves hunt an elusive Valkyrie tiara.

November 12, 1918. It was a match made in champagne-soaked heaven, but all too soon the bubbles dried up, and Esme Fox awakens the morning after celebrating the end of the Great War to find herself shockingly and accidentally married. She gathers her belongings and slips out before her new husband can stop her. After all, she knows it's best to leave before he does.

Four years later, Jasper Truitt, after having made a name for himself in the underground world of jewel thieves, is on the hunt for a valuable heirloom: a one-of-a-kind winged tiara--the last Valkyrie tiara ever created. So it's with great surprise that he discovers it at a charity event atop the head of a woman he's never forgotten. His long-lost wife . . . who happens to be pursuing the tiara for a vengeful opera diva desperate to obtain the jewel for herself.

The reunion is cut short when Esme vanishes--again--but their separation is temporary. With a hitman on their heels and a deadline looming, the pair find themselves in an epic game of cat and mouse across Europe following leads from the French Riviera to a shop of wonders in Venice, a fairy-tale castle in Bavaria, and a veritable circus thrown by a champagne heiress, all before a dramatic horseback flight through the French countryside.

In the end only one can win, and with both of their hearts on the line, the winner may well turn out to be the loser.

In her latest glamorous historical romance, J'nell Ciesielski spins a sparkling story filled with her signature snappy dialogue and vivid atmosphere that will keep you reading late into the night to see what happens next.

AUTHOR BIO

Bestselling author J’nell Ciesielski has a passion for heart-stopping adventure and sweeping love stories while weaving fresh takes into romances of times gone by. When not creating dashing heroes and daring heroines, she can be found dreaming of Scotland, indulging in chocolate of any kind, or watching old black and white movies. She is a member of the Tall Poppy Writers and lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and lazy beagle.

Beyond Ivy Walls ~ Release Day

 Today is the Release Day for
 Beyond Ivy Walls by Rachel Fordham.
 


BOOK DESCRIPTION

Reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast, a recluse and a young woman discover that the scars of life are no match against an act of love.

Iowa, 1903. All of Monticello believes Otis Taylor has been away fostering his musical genius. But the truth is that his father exiled him long ago, rejecting Otis's appearance and the scars that came with it. Now that he is the last living Taylor, Otis has covertly returned to settle his family's affairs and rid himself of his past for good. However, he soon discovers that he may not have been the only discarded Taylor and begins a tireless search for his missing niece.

At twenty-three years old, Sadie West left her family farm and found employment at the Hoag feather duster factory. It isn't a romantic job, but she's hardly had a glimmer of romance since her beau went off to college, leaving her with no promise of a future together. Desperate to save money and help her family make ends meet, she trespasses and finds shelter in an abandoned building--and is thrown in the path of the town's mysterious bachelor.

Otis's wounds are deep, but as Sadie's friendship with him grows, she begins to fall for the man beneath the mask. The mystery of his long-lost niece, however, is more complex than either could have imagined, and Sadie may be the key to Otis Taylor finally finding his way home.

AUTHOR BIO

Rachel Fordham is the author of Where the Road BendsA Lady in AttendanceA Life Once DreamedThe Hope of Azure Springs, and Yours Truly, Thomas. Fans expect stories with heart and she delivers, diving deep into the human experience and tugging at reader emotions. She loves connecting with people, traveling to new places, and daydreaming about future projects that will have sigh-worthy endings and memorable characters. She is a busy mom, raising both biological and foster children (a cause she feels passionate about). She lives with her husband and children on an island in the state of Washington. 

1.30.2024

Fragile Design ~ Review

Fragile Design
By Colleen Coble

Carly Harris had just discovered that she was expecting when her husband was murdered. Since Eric's death she's been living with her grandmother. Single parenthood was not something she expected to do, but someone took away her choices. And when her grandmother comes up with a solution for Carly to support herself, turn their home into a bed-and-breakfast, Carly is willing to try. Of course, this means major renovations to their home - que the former boyfriend who just happens to be in construction. No, old feelings aren't rekindled. 

But when Carly comes across something that could have a bearing on her husband's murder she turns to Lucas, the brother who didn't think she was good enough for his younger brother. Lucas calls upon his police skills and agrees to help Carly, who surprises him because she's different than he was expecting her to be. What's more he really finds there's a lot about Carly to like. 

When Carly and Lucas dig deeper, they discover a long-held secret and a possible reason for Eric's murder. Soon everyone's life is in danger and the deeper they go for answers the closer it gets.

Anyone who has read any of Colleen Coble's Contemporary Romantic Suspense books in the past will not be disappointed in this newest title. There are layers that must be peeled back to discover the truth - a truth that has been hidden for nearly a lifetime. And at the root of everything is family - the ties that bind us together and the secrets that can tear us apart. This is reads as a standalone book but it could easily become a series starter. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes long nights filled with the broken promise of just one more chapter because this is just such a book.

I was provided with 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:

There’s only one thing more dangerous than family secrets.

Since her police-officer husband Eric’s mysterious murder, Carly Harris has been struggling to support herself and their infant son. Her career as an antique dealer isn’t sustainable, nor is her dream of becoming a novelist. So when her grandmother proposes she and her two sisters restore the family’s large Beaufort home and turn it into a bed-and-breakfast, she immediately gets to work clearing out the house. In the process, she uncovers a family secret that Eric kept hidden. And an heirloom that the wrong person wouldn’t hesitate to kill for.

Homicide detective Lucas Bennett isn’t his neighbor’s biggest fan, not since she broke his brother’s heart years ago. But when Carly turns to Lucas for help, believing she’s found a lost Fabergé egg that would be worth millions and that could put her family’s lives in danger, he can’t help but get involved. Soon, they’re entangled in a mystery with threads that lead all the way to the Russian mafia. Lucas has gotten in deep, and while he trusts his ability to keep Carly and her family safe, he begins to realize he’s vulnerable to an unexpected kind of danger. And he’s helpless to stop the freefall. As they continue working closely together, Carly and Lucas realize they may have found something more precious than gold. Yet it’s only a matter of time before Carly—or, worse, someone she loves—gets hurt.

3.30.2022

Really Woolly ~ Review


Really Woolly: My First Easter
Published by Tommy Nelson
Written by Bonnie Rickner Jensen
Illustrated by Julie Sawyer Phillips
Dayspring 

This cute board book is shaped like a filled-Easter basket with a cut-out at the handle so kids can carry the book as if it were a real basket.

Each facing-page pair has colorful illustrations with a rhyming text, a Bible verse, and a prayer. There is a theme or chapter for each page pairing that includes The Joy of Spring, The Joy of Rain, The Joy of New Beginnings, The Joy of Growing, The Joy of Easter, The Joy of Jesus, and The Joy in My Heart.  The Really Wooly illustrations are timeless and will attract and capture the attention of young children as they learn about the joys of the season. 

A delightful book that is the perfect gift to share with your little reader. 

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.

 Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3qggLK8 #ad 

 Book Blurb

Celebrate the hope of Jesus and the true meaning of Easter with this basket-shaped board book of poems and prayers from DaySpring’s Really Woolly series. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers will giggle along with this lovable sheep as they discover that the Easter story is full of joy, from baby ducklings and blooming flowers to knowing that Jesus is alive forever and ever!

This Christian Easter board book for ages 0 to 4 features

  1. A die-cut Easter basket shape with a handle and glittered cover
  2. An Easter egg hunt in each illustration that will keep children coming back to make new discoveries
  3. The favorite Really Woolly characters
  4. Bible verses, sweet rhymes, and simple prayers that reflect the delight of God’s promises
  5. An age-appropriate way to teach very young children how spring blessings of new life reflect the meaning of Jesus’ resurrection

This inspirational Easter book for kids is the perfect Easter basket gift, spring family read-aloud, or Easter morning Sunday School storytime. Curl up with your own little lamb and Really Woolly My First Easter to celebrate the hope and joy of the Easter season.

The Really Woolly® line from DaySpring® Cards has been a top-selling brand for more than 15 years. Really Woolly products are best known for sharing encouragement through the relationship the Shepherd has with His sheep.



 Giveaway – (1) winner will receive a print copy of the book. (US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Instagram is not affiliated with nor responsible for this giveaway. Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on April 4, 2022.)

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3.22.2022

Undistracted ~ Review


Undistracted

By Bob Goff
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (March 1, 2022)
Hardcover: 256 pages
Audiobook: 6 hours and 2 minutes

Undistracted is an interesting book. The author, Bob Goff, who is also the narrator takes the reader on a journey in which distraction sidelines us from what we are meant to do. Disappointment, various choices, and life, in general, can keep us from fulfilling the course our life is on. Distractions slow us down or even take us off course. 

Bob shows us just how easy it is to be distracted by using examples from his own life. Can we stop distractions from shifting our focus? Yes, we can and this book shows us how.  Distractions don't have to derail us and we can even use them to our own advantage. The important thing is being able to tell what is a true distraction and what is a necessary break from the every day that allows us to come back better. 

This is a perfect book to get for the person in your life (or yourself) who is always busy and on the move. We need to be aware that life is a balance and that yes, one's job, is important but not at the expense of family and friends. So determine what is the distraction or distractions of your life and get Undistracted with Bob Goff's help. I will admit for the audiobook I did listen to it at 1.2 times as it was a little slow at 1.0 times, I know details but I like my reading (or narration) a touch faster. But overall this was an interesting and insightful book.

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:
Through his pithy and inspiring storytelling that has endeared him to millions, New York Times bestselling author Bob Goff reassures readers that they can harness today’s distractions, follow Jesus’ example, and find focus, purpose, and joy.

You probably know what it’s like to be driving down the road when you suddenly feel the vibration and hear the guh-guh-guhguh-guh of the rumble strips–those groves in the pavement–warning you that you’ve drifted out of your lane. You didn’t mean to get distracted. You only took your eyes off the road for a moment, but you drifted off course. And that’s a lot like life, isn’t it?

In Undistracted, Bob Goff lovingly yanks us back in our lane and helps us get back on track so we can live our lives with real purpose and joy. In his trademark storytelling style, Bob helps us
  • learn the destruction of distraction and the benefits of living a life of undistracted love and authentic connection;
  • identify the distractions in our lives and either eliminate them or route around them; and
  • catch a vision of our future, undistracted selves where we can experience true happiness and joy.
Bob’s inspiring and entertaining stories in Undistracted show us what it looks like to live a beautiful and purposeful life rather than drifting aimlessly from one season to the next. He encourages us to fix our eyes on Jesus and harness life’s distractions so we can find joy despite our circumstances.Purchase Links:
Thomas Nelson |Amazon Barnes & Noble
About the Author:
Bob Goff is the author of the New York Times bestselling Love DoesEverybody, Always; and Dream Big as well as the bestselling Love Does for Kids. He’s a lover of balloons, cake pops, and helping people pursue their big dreams. Bob’s greatest ambitions in life are to love others, do stuff, and most importantly, to hold hands with his wife, Sweet Maria, and spend time with their amazing family. For more, check out BobGoff.com and LoveDoes.org.
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