Sticks and Stone ~ Review with Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

Sticks and Stone by David James Warren, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Sticks and Stone

The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #3

By David James Warren

Rembrandt Stone has a problem, one of his own making though it began accidentally. First he isn't the man he knows and thought himself to be. No he isn't delusional, though that would be preferable to the reality he now finds himself living. His wife is not his wife and she never was. His daughter has never existed though he has another daughter he never knew. And his best friend/ex-partner is married to his wife who was never his wife. If you think you are confused you have just a small understanding of what Rem's week is like. And this doesn't even touch the serial killer who he somehow enabled with his major blundering through the past!

Rem doesn't want to keep messing up and he doesn't want to ruin Eve's life more than he has, but he keeps being drawn to the past and the killer whose killings are all on him. Can he figure out what he messed up without totally destroying his future? Or will he forever be changing who he is?

This is one series where reading the books out of order will seriously mess with your mind. This is the third book and you have to read them in order! This newest book finds Rem once again totally clueless when it starts and how do you carry on a conversation with anyone when everything you thought you knew yesterday has changed overnight and you've lost years of memories in the process. You have memories but they are the wrong ones for the life you are now living.  I have to say I really feel Rem - he has a life that he is satisfied with, a wife and daughter he loves, and then everything is gone with a simple windup of a watch. With three books to go in the series, one has to wonder if it is possible to restore what he has lost and what the ultimate cost will be to him and those around him. 

This series reminds me of a Star Trek Voyager episode (The Year of Hell) when a scientist in an attempt to help his people inadvertently affects the universe around him and deletes his wife from existence he then spends decades trying to restore what he has lost. What means the most to him is the one thing he can't restore.

If you are looking for a read that takes you from your every day and demands that you suspend your disbelief you absolutely have to read Sticks and Stone, after reading the two previous titles - Cast the First Stone and No Unturned Stone.

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

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing collectively as David James Warren.

Title: Sticks and Stone 
Series: The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #3
Author: David James Warren
Publisher: TriStone Media
Release Date: June 1, 2021
Genre: Time Travel Detective Series

When Rembrandt goes back to stop the untimely death of his partner, he finds himself wrapped up in the disappearance of two missing children in the middle of an epic Minneapolis blizzard. But, can he save the children in time--and if he does, will he also be able to save his partner?

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.

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

BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

CONNECT WITH REMBRANDT STONE: Website | Instagram

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

James L. Rubart is 28 years old, but lives trapped inside an older man’s body. He’s the best-selling, Christy Hall of Fame author of ten novels and loves to send readers on mind-bending journeys they’ll remember months after they finish one of his stories. He’s dad to the two most outstanding sons on the planet and lives with his amazing wife on a small lake in eastern Washington. More at http://jameslrubart.com/

CONNECT WITH JAMES: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award–winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith. For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com. 

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

David Curtis Warren is making his literary debut in these novels, and he’s never been more excited. He looks forward to creating more riveting stories with Susie and Jim, as well as on his own. He’s grateful for his co-writers, family, and faith, buoying him during the pandemic of 2020, and this writing and publishing process.

CONNECT WITH DAVID: Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of the first three books of The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 8, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 15, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Come Back to Me ~ Review

Come Back to Me

Waters of Time #1

By Jody Hedlund

Marian Creighton and her father are obsessed with their research. But where Marian's research relies heavily on science her father's has delved into the fanciful in Marian's opinion. But when her father falls into an unexplainable coma his research shows just how extraordinary his research truly is. He was on the cusp of discovering the cure to all diseases and ills. But his research hints at the Tree of Life and the ability to cross back in time - utter crazy talk until it isn't. 

Could the cure her father sought have trapped him in the past? There is only one way to find out. But some research carries greater risks than ever imagined and what Marian is about to discover is that she is in no way prepared for what she is about to experience. And in no way is she prepared to live a life in the Middle Ages caught in the middle of a peasant revolt. And her only protection is a knight who has offered her the protection of his name as his wife. 

Trapped in the past Marian continues to search for the holy water that could be the answer to her father's years of searching and the cure her sister desperately needs. And if she hopes to return to her present, Marian needs to work quickly before the past claims her heart and her life.

Come Back to Me is unlike any of Jody Hedlund's previous works in the premise that is the foundation of this book. Yet it is also familiar in the excellence of writing and in the multilayered depth of the story. I really enjoyed this book that was most definitely a time-slip story. While the majority of the book was spent in the past there was enough set in the present to whet one's appetite for what is to come in book 2. Now while there is a second book still to come the main focus of the book is not left in a cliffhanger fashion so you can read, enjoy and be satisfied while waiting for what comes next. Now the science fiction aspect of this book is important and yet it does not make this book feel like a sci-fi book - I'd say it is more on the speculative side rather than the the fantastical. It is a wonderful blend of what one is familiar with and a touch of something new where Jody Hedlund is concerned and it is a not to miss read - perfect for those hot days of summer.

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:

The ultimate cure that could heal any disease? 

Crazy.

That's exactly what research scientist Marian Creighton has always believed about her father's quest, even if it does stem from a desire to save her sister Ellen from the genetic disease that stole their mother from them. But when her father falls into a coma after drinking a vial of holy water believed to contain traces of residue from the Tree of Life, Marian must question all of her assumptions. He's left behind tantalizing clues that suggest he's crossed back in time. Insane. Until Marian tests his theories and finds herself in the Middle Ages during a dangerous peasant uprising.

William Durham, a valiant knight comes to Marian's rescue and offers her protection . . . as his wife. The longer Marian stays in the past, the more she cares about William. Can she ever find her father and make it back to the present to heal her sister? And when the time comes to leave, will she want to?

Bestselling author Jody Hedlund is your guide down the twisting waters of time to a volatile era of superstition, revolts, and chivalry in this suspenseful story.

Iridescent ~ Review

Iridescent

Iridescent #1

By S.H. Everly

A promise. 

A broken heart. 

And a map that leads to more than just buried treasure.

For Katrina Peterson moving back to California is the worst possible thing that could happen. Chicago has been her home for more than ten years and the worst part is that she's leaving behind her best friend, Brandon. Senior year is not going to anything like she expected or planned. 

But Santa Cruz was home to Kate and Aunt Jan 12 years ago, before the big storm took her parents from her. Before so many were lost that fateful night. If only Brandon could have made the move with them Kate could be happy.

Soon Kate is making new friends, including Matt and Jared who seem to be at odds with one another. She's also meeting people who knew her parents, getting glimpses into who her mother was. But the more she learns the less she truly knows, can she unravel the mystery shrouding her mother? And will the map her mother left help her uncover the truth? Kate can only hope. And then there is the irresistible pull that the ocean has upon her - a pull that is at odds with her fear of it. 

Someone is determined to stop Kate but why? As Kate enlists the help of her new friends she learns truths about herself that she never expected. Truths that are about to forever alter her life.

As Kate navigates the imminent approach of adulthood she leans on her friends, family, and faith to help her determine just what she should do. This is an enjoyable read that though intended for a young adult audience can easily be enjoyed by a broader audience. So find a cozy corner or quiet beach and enjoy this contemporary YA fantasy that will leave you wanting more! And I really want book 2!!!

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

About the Book:

For 17-year-old Katrina Peterson, life is never the same after she finds out she’s moving back to California. Upon arrival, Katrina learns that the town has secrets, and at the heart of them is the mysterious and popular Jared, who’s been dreaming about her long before she came to Santa Cruz.

Only one thing seems to have all the answers: a map given to her by her mother. But Katrina wonders how long she can keep her own secret from Jared. Will he ever accept her for who she truly is? But, more importantly, can she?

A story filled with friendship, family, love, and even faith, Iridescent will take you away to the beaches and ocean waters of Central California, and on a magical journey in this coming-of-age book.

Right Cross ~ Review

Right Cross

A Shepherd Suspense Novel #3

By Andrew Huff

Former CIA agent and ex-pastor John Cross finds himself on the wrong side of the law. Imprisoned in the worst prison in England and stuck between two rival prison gangs - life couldn't get much bleaker. But not everything is as it appears as his on pause girlfriend Christine Lewis soon discovers. 

Cyberterrorists have a plan in place and it will disrupt the world as we now know it (but isn't that always the case with those who are out to topple world governments and economic markets). It is a race across international borders and against time to stop these cyber masterminds who are master manipulators before they go too far and can't be stopped.

Right Cross is the third book in the Shepherd Suspense series and it is unputdownable reading. There are more than a few unexpected twists that keep the reader's suspense level at high. And a word of advice, read books 1 and 2 first, it's not that you won't enjoy this book without reading them first just that you'll better understand it with the backstory firmly in your mind. Excellent reading that you don't want to miss. And there just might be a fairly happy ending to be had if they can all survive what is coming.

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

About the Book:

Heart-pounding action meets spiritual choices in this thrilling finale to John Cross's saga

First he left the CIA. Then he left pastoral ministry. Now John Cross has been imprisoned in one of Great Britain's most infamous prisons. Has he reached the end of his rope? Or is this another move in a dangerous spy game?

Christine Lewis, United News Network's rising star television anchor, is determined to find out. But in her pursuit of answers, Christine finds herself at the center of a cyberterrorist plot to alter the balance of power in the world. From the English coastline to the Rocky Mountains, John must partner with the CIA and MI6 in a race against the clock to stop the threat of nuclear war and save the lives of everyone he holds dear.

The concluding story in the Shepherd Suspense trilogy is a globe-trotting, action-packed adventure with threads of biblical truth woven in. Fans of high-octane thrillers will be on the edge of their seats with Right Cross.

Never Miss ~ Review

Never Miss

By Melissa Koslin

Kadance Tolle has spent the last few years running and avoiding any lasting interactions with anyone. But when she comes across what appears to be an assassination attempt she can't help herself she has to intervene. She just didn't realize exactly what she was getting herself into by saving Lyndon Vaile's life.

Lyndon's life has been dedicated to researching the Ebola virus. After its personal effect on his life, he is determined to find a way to end its hold. What he didn't expect was to find evidence that could have been engineered and now someone is about to use it to possibly bring the US Government down. 

What Lyndon and Kadance can't figure out is why he is being targeted. With limited time to piece together the little evidence they have, they also have to stay ahead of the very people who have targeted them. 

Never Miss is fast-paced suspense that has unexpected twists as the various pieces of the past come together. This book is not a gentle or clean read but it does not have any graphic scenes of violence either. Both Kadance and Lyndon are damaged by their pasts and trust is not something they can easily give but to succeed they have to reach out and lower the barriers that they have erected. But how does one extend trust when it has been broken? This is something that takes a risk and makes one vulnerable - something most people have trouble doing. 

Overall I'd say this is a well-researched, well-written book that those looking for suspense, intrigue, and romance well-blended will enjoy. My only complaint was the focus on physical attributes, I mean I get it, both main characters are attracted to each other and they are in excellent physical shape, but I found it a bit repetitive once it got further into the 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:

Former CIA sniper Kadance Tolle possesses a special set of skills and a rare pedigree. She comes from a family of assassins, and by saving Lyndon Vaile's life she risks being found by them. Despite the danger, Kadance feels compelled to help Lyndon discover who is after him--and his research that seems to prove that the Ebola virus was manmade and is about to be weaponized.

With shadowy figures pursuing them and a Mastermind watching their every move, Kadance and Lyndon must scramble to stop an impending bioattack at the State of the Union address. But their warnings fall on deaf ears, and it becomes increasingly clear that there's no one they can trust--except perhaps each other.

Strap in for a breakneck story that will have you up all night, hurtling toward the last page as the clock ticks and time runs out.

Crazy For You ~ Review and Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Crazy for You by Michelle Sass Aleckson presented by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Crazy For You

Deep Haven Collection #3

By Michelle Sass Aleckson

Fire Chief Peter Dahlquist has a problem, well more than one problem actually. First, off he is related to almost everybody in Deep Haven, so his dating prospects are close to zero. Second, he is related to almost everyone and he is caught in the middle of a council vote that is going to tick someone off in the family. And on top of that, he has to pick out a helicopter for Deep Haven's new Crisis Response Team. Life can't get much more stressful, right?

Major big time wrong!

Ronnie Morales is Deep Haven's newest paramedic but she isn't from Deep Haven and small towns have this thing about outsiders, especially outsiders who try to shake things up. Ronnie is passionate about her work and she is determined to get Deep Haven up to speed and update all its antiquated equipment.  Unfortunately, suggestions are taken as criticism, and Ronnie's delivery is not the most concillatory. And she determined to get Peter to commit to what needs to be done and sooner than later.

Crazy for You takes the reader back to Deep Haven, MN, and is the third book in the Deep Haven Collection. Characters from Susan May Warren's previous Deep Haven books take supporting roles as new characters take center stage. Sometimes the only way to get something done is to stop playing the role of a peacemaker. But can Peter stand up to his Dahlquist and Zimmerman family members and let them know how he feels? And when he finally finds a woman who captures his heart will he stand with her or his family? Sometimes making a decision is the most important thing a person can do and the time has come for Peter to make his. 

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: Crazy for You 
Series: Deep Haven Collection #3
Author: Michelle Sass Aleckson presented by Susan May Warren
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: May 25, 2021
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

The problem with being related to everyone in town is that there is no one left to date…until now…but will this outsider survive his family?

Former soldier Veronica “Ronnie” Morales isn’t going to let her kid brother, Tiago, get pulled into the gangs of Minneapolis, so, seeking safety and a fresh start, she heads to sleepy Deep Haven on the north shore of Minnesota. She’s hoping to put down roots as the paramedic for the new Crisis Response Team, but it’s not easy to be the town outsider. 

Fire Chief Peter Dahlquist is a peacemaker—he has to be. After he’s related to both of the Deep Haven dynasties – the Zimmermans and the Dahlquists, Deep Haven’s version of the Hatfields and the McCoys. Worse, Peter is the holdout vote for a landmark project, which also makes him the loneliest guy in town when both sides demand that he pick sides. The only one who seems to understand his plight is the newcomer in town…his pretty, street-tough paramedic. 

When Tiago finds himself caught up in small town shenanigans and the town blames Ronnie for tragedy, Peter is forced to pick sides. But will his choice cost him the home—and the woman—he loves? 

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

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling novelist of 80 books. With more than 1.5 million books in print, she is beloved by reviewers and readers around the world. Visit Susan at www.susanmaywarren.com.

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

After growing up on both the east and west coasts, Michelle Sass Aleckson now lives the country life in central Minnesota with her own hero and their four kids. She loves rocking out to 80’s music on a Saturday night, playing Balderdash with the fam, and getting lost in good stories. Especially stories that shine grace. And if you’re wondering, yes, Sass is her maiden name. Visit her at www.michellealeckson.com.

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

Merging the creative energies of best-selling authors Susan May Warren and Lindsay Harrel, Sunrise Publishing is the matchmaker for established authors who want to build on their current success for future growth and aspiring authors looking to break out, build an audience, and hone their writing skills. 

CONNECT WITH SUNRISE: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | admin@sunrisepublishing.com

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card + 3 Crazy for You ebooks (one ebook for the winner and two to give to friends)!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. The full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway began at midnight May 25, 2021, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 1, 2021. The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the 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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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Castle of Refuge ~ Review with Giveaway

Castle of Refuge

A Dericott Tale#2

By Melanie Dickerson

Four years ago Audrey's hopes were dashed, leaving her scarred for life following an incident with Maris, her older sister. No longer of value in her father's estimate all thoughts of a marriage alliance with the future Lord Dericott are ended before beginning. With Maris's imminent return and a unwanted marriage offer Audrey does the only thing she can - she flees the only home she has ever known. 

Life as the daughter of a viscount has left Audrey ill prepared to face the life she suddenly finds herself in. And soon she finds herself in desperate need but nowhere to turn for help and at the mercy of strangers.

Edwin has assumed the role of Lord Endicott, but the injury he sustained protecting his family has left its mark. Feeling he is no longer a whole man, Edwin struggles to regain some of what he has lost. His future appears bleak but for the kindness he can extend his tenants. When a sick young woman is found - he offers her the safety and protection that his title and home can provide.

Castle of Refuge is a story of healing and seeing beyond the outer physical appearance to the true-self of a person. Now this story is not without its dramatic, page-turning moments, of which there are several. How often do we hide behind what we see in the mirror - thinking this reflection is a true representation of what lies beneath the surface? Both Audrey and Edwin grow through this story learning to not limit themselves by perceptions but rather to push forward to test themselves to grow. 

This is the second book in the Dericott Tales series and it can be enjoyed without the backstory of book one Court of Swans. Having that information, which lets you understand more of Edwin is helpful but you can go back and read it later, which believe me you will want to do. Overall I highly recommend this book to both teen and adult readers.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Title Castle of Refuge

By Melanie Dickerson

From Thomas Nelson

Ever since she was a child, Audrey wanted her life to be extraordinary. But as the daughter of a viscount born in late fourteenth-century England, the only thing expected of her was to marry—until an act of malice by her sister, Maris, four years ago damaged her face and her prospects. Though Maris was sent away, twenty-year-old Audrey is still suffering the scars of her sister’s cruelty. When her father announces his plans to marry off his damaged daughter and bring Maris home, Audrey decides to flee in search of her true destiny.

However, life outside her home is dangerous, and she soon finds herself attacked, sick, and in desperate need of help. She is taken in at Dericott Castle to be nursed back to health. While there, she decides to keep her identity a secret and work as a servant in the castle. But she doesn’t count on falling in love with the young and handsome Lord Dericott, who lost his arm several months earlier and bears scars of his own.

Meanwhile, Edwin—Lord Dericott—is curious about the new, well-educated servant’s identity. All he knows is that he’s quickly becoming smitten with her. When the man Audrey’s father wanted her to marry comes looking for her, she and Edwin must make life-changing decisions about what to believe and whether or not love is truly worth trusting.

Available to purchase at Amazon

Giveaway – (3) winners 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. 

The giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on June 1, 2021.

For all the rules and how to enter 

click here