Bridge of Gold ~ Takeover Tour

Welcome to the Takeover Tour for 

Bridge of Gold by Kimberley Woodhouse, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Bridge of Gold

Doors to the Past #3

By Kimberley Woodhouse

Bridges of Gold takes the reader to San Francisco and follows two stories. One is set in 1933, at the time of the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge. The other story is set in the present day and repairs are taking place on the same bridge. When repairs uncover a mystery from the past the two story threads start to draw together. 

But what does this mystery mean to the main characters involved in the two story threads? 

Kayla Richardson has been called in when the wreckage of a ship is found near the restoration site of the Golden Gate Bridge. Working with Steven Michaels, soon finds Kayla involved in more than a restoration and excavation. Human remains have been found and for some reason, someone seems determined to keep them from the truth. 

Luke Moreau sees his job as a diver on the construction of a bridge that will span the San Francisco Bay as the means to fulfilling his hopes and dreams. What he never expected is that it could cost him his life. The greatest danger comes not from the work but rather from an unknown enemy driven by greed. 

Bridge of Gold is both historical and contemporary fiction with romance, mystery and, suspense running throughout. Part of the Doors of the Past series this book is a standalone title that takes the reader on an adventure that spans nearly a century. The pacing is steady with moments of intensity that don't overwhelm the senses. Overall this is a well-thought-out story that is will take the reader away from their every day for a few well-spent hours. There is nothing overly graphic so sensibilities should not be offended in any way. I have no qualms about recommending this book to any teen or adult 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.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Bridge of Gold
Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
Series: Doors to the Past
Publisher: Barbour
Release Date: June 1, 2021
Genre: Christian, Split Time romance 

Repairs on the Golden Gate Bridge Uncover a Century-Old Murder 

Underwater archaeologist Kayla Richardson is called to the Golden Gate Bridge where repairs to one of the towers uncovers two human remains from the late 1800s and the 1930s. The head of the bridge restoration is Steven Michaels, who dives with Kayla, and a friendship develops between them. But as the investigation heats up and gold is found that dates back to the gold rush, more complications come into play that threaten them both. Could clues leading to a Gold Rush era mystery that was first discovered during the building of the bridge still ignite an obsession worth killing for? 

Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series of historical stories of romance and adventure. 

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

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bestselling author Kimberley Woodhouse has more than twenty books published. She is an avid reader, lover of history, and passionate about music and Bible study.

CONNECT WITH KIMBERLEY: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Bridge of Gold and a $15 Amazon gift card!

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 June 21, 2021, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 28, 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.

Texas Baby Cover-Up ~ Review

Texas Baby Cover-Up

Cowboy Lawmen #4

By Virginia Vaughan

Kellyanne Avery's life is about to be upended when her friend Lisa is murdered. The upending occurs when Kelly discovers that Lisa has named her as Brady's guardian. She knows that she will never be the mother that he needs no matter how much she has grown to love him. But someone has decided that Kelly and Brady are a threat and must be gotten rid of.

With her off-again, on-again ex the only thing keeping her safe Kelly finds herself returning home. She never wanted to find herself in the position of needing her family or Zeke Tyler, but to keep Brady safe she will do almost anything. It is hard to change a lifetime of stubborn independence but to stay alive Kellyanne just might need to learn to do so and fast.

This is the fourth book in the Cowboy Lawmen series and it can easily be read as a standalone book if you have not yet had time to be introduced to the Avery family. But you may want to make room in your schedule to check out the first three books later after reading the Texas Baby Cover-Up. 

Zeke never wanted to leave Courtland but Kellyanne couldn't wait to leave and get out from under her brothers' overbearing protection. But sometimes we need to go home to discover what it is we truly want. 

If you want suspense that won't keep you awake from overly graphic scenes you will thoroughly enjoy this latest offering from Virginia Vaughan. There is no lack of action or drama but nothing unbelievably over the top. This is an excellent escape book for those hot summer days and evenings that are here.

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.                                                                                                                                                   

A mother’s secret got her killed.

Now they must protect her baby…

After the shock of finding her best friend murdered, Kellyanne Avery’s focused on caring for her friend’s sweet baby—until the killer returns, determined to kidnap the child. Now Kellyanne needs the one man she trusts with her life: her ex-flame, Deputy Sheriff Zeke Tyler. But as they hide on her family’s ranch, can Zeke unravel deadly secrets and shield them from harm?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Cowboy Lawmen Series
Book 1: Texas Twin Abduction
Book 2: Texas Holiday Hideout
Book 3: Texas Target Standoff
Book 4: Texas Baby Cover-Up

Be sure to pre-order your copy now!! 

Fresh Scars ~ Review with Giveaway

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

Fresh Scars

By Donna Mumma

Asia Butler and her older sister Ivy are returning to their childhood home, a place neither ever wanted to return to ever again. But their mother Veronica has once again managed to get her way. Veronica wasn't the kind of mother who endeared herself to her two daughters, rather she seemed to be in the running for psycho of the century. But somehow Veronica knew just what both her daughters need and she is orchestrating one last manipulation while in her final hours.

Fresh Scars delves into the past of the Butler sisters, who have not spoken in years. Working through their mother's chaotic clutter reopens old wounds, wounds that have made a permanent impact on their lives.

As they work together, the damage to their relationship is more than a little evident. Both are facing some closely guarded secrets that they are not willing to share. This is a book that will prey upon your emotions as truths are slowly exposed. Both main characters are victims who though they got away never fully healed from what they both endured. You will be moved by Asia and Ivy's story, there is no way not to be moved as it progresses. 

Fresh Scars is well written and once you start reading you won't be able to easily put it down because will have to know what happens and how it is ultimately resolved. More importantly, what does Veronica want them to find as they fulfill her request to clean out her house, the one place they should have felt safe. 

If you are looking for an intense and moving book that will leave you contemplating your own life and how it compares to that of the characters this is one you will want to read. There are some psychological elements running throughout that will immediately draw in some readers. In the end, you will feel so much for both Asia and Ivy it will be a book that stays with you for some time. I have not previously read this author's work or in all truthfulness a book of a similar vein. In the past, I have shied away from similar books but I'm glad I did not avoid this one. I highly recommend it, though you may want to read with the lights on if it gets late into the night.

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: Fresh Scars
Author: Donna Mumma
Publisher: Firefly Southern Fiction (Iron Stream Media)
Release Date: June 15, 2021
Genre: Southern Fiction

Time heals all wounds . . . or does it? 

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

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

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

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

CONNECT WITH DONNA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

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

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. The full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway began at midnight June 21, 2021, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 28, 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.

A Lady in Attendance ~ Review

 A Lady in Attendance

 By Rachel Fordham

We are introduced to Hazel as she is introduced to life at the House of  Refuge - a prison that she is sentenced to spend the next 5 years calling home. Once a convict always a convict she has been told. Life outside is much worse because even though you've been "reformed" you could commit the crime again. Trust is lost. Not a hopeful prospect for someone who had had a life of ease and wealth.

Five years pass with no more glimpses of Hazel's life within the prison. She has been released but she no longer has a home and her family has pushed her away to save the reputations of her younger siblings. In need of employment she applies to be a lady in attendance for Doctor Gilbert Watts, who is a dentist in Amherst. 

Soon Hazel has a life that she is content with. She enjoys her work for the most part - though occasionally some mouths are less than pleasant to be around. Gilbert has lived a solitary life and Hazel's presence in his office has brought something new into his life - something he never knew he was missing. But there are certain lines that can't be crossed and Gilbert is a man of honor. And if he knew the secrets she carried Hazel is sure that she would yet again be in search of a new home and employment.

Determined to clear her name, Hazel finds herself with noone to listen to her story. She isn't innocent but she never committed the crimes that changed her life forever. Can she trust those who she now calls friends to help her or will she be forever separated from the family she never fully appreciated until they were lost to her forever? 

A Lady is Attendance does not take the reader to Azure Springs (or the surrounding area) as the author's previous books (from Revell) have, so this book is most definitely as standalone title. I really enjoyed getting to know Hazel, Gilbert, Duncan, and Ina. This is classified as a historical romance which it most definitely is but it is so much more too. It is a study of human nature and how an indivdual responds to injustice, forgiveness, and trust. It is a study of injustice and the lack of weight given to a woman's voice at this time. Justice when properly applied is to be admired but when subverted it is a tool of the corrupt. 

I have to admit if the author ever decided to revisit these characters or some of the surrorting characters I would not be disappointed and would love to pay another visit to Amherst, New York, of the late 1890s. If you are looking for a lovely historical fiction with a bit of mystery, suspense, and romance you have to add A Lady in Attendance to your summer tbr list. If you are familiar with Rachel Fordham's you won't be disappointed and if you have never read her before this is the perfect introduction to her literary skills.

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:

Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel's real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.

As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can't help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?

Rachel Fordham pens a tender tale of a soft-spoken man, a hardened woman, and the friends that stand by them as they work toward a common purpose--to expunge the record of someone society deemed beyond saving--and perhaps find love along the way.

Where He Leads ~ Review with Giveaway

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

Where He Leads

Desires of the Heart #1

By Lynne Lanning

Lilly's early life was not too bad but then Ma died and Pa just couldn't forgive God for taking Ma and their last baby. But Lilly had Pa, her sisters, and her brothers. But then Pa got Sugar and his time was short so he made preparations and Lilly got a new home. 

The home Pa found for her was a loving one and she made a place for herself in the Donovan family becoming the daughter they never had. Life was good and she was able to let Pa know of the joy and eternal peace that she had found with the family he had arranged for her.

The first portion of the book is focused on Lilly and her life right before leaving Pa and then her first year with her new family. This gives the reader a pretty thorough idea of Lilly's life and the strong and supportive home she moved into.

The second half deals with Lilly's early adulthood and the troubles that come to her when she falls in love. But through it all she when she puts her trust in God and prays she finds peace in the midst of her trouble. 

The book reads at times almost like a journal. It is mostly a sweet read even when difficulties are faced by the various characters. There are moments of prejudice towards certain persons because of their relationship with Cherokees who lived in the not-too-distant vicinity. Lilly uses her time and loving concern to influence others to seek out the Lord who has comforted her over the years. 

Where He Leads is based upon the life of the author's own family as is explained at the conclusion of the book. This is overall a good read. If you are looking for a book with a lot of action or suspense this doesn't really offer that. There are a few tense moments that add a little to the book but nothing too long and drawn out. This is Historical Fiction with a touch of romance.

I'm interested to see where this series goes. Does it continue Lilly's story? Or does it give us more about Lilly's siblings?  

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Where He Leads
Series: Desires of the Heart #1
Author: Lynne Lanning
Release Date: January 24, 2021
Genre: Christian, Historical/Western Romance 

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

Why had God allowed all of this tragedy? 

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

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

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

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

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

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

CONNECT WITH LYNNE: Website | Facebook

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

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

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

No Journey Too Far ~ Review

No Journey Too Far

McAlister Family Saga #2

By Carrie Turansky

For too long Grace McAlister has been gone. With no clues as to where she may have been taken after 10 years her family still has hope that someday they will find her. With the war in Europe concluded, Garth McAlister plans to return to Canada. But he first plans to spend time with the family he was taken from all those years ago. Concern for the woman who captured his heart has him returning to Canada - Emma Lafferty is the woman he promised to return to but all communication from her abruptly ended several months ago. Can he find Emma and Grace? Or will the hole in the family and his heart be a permanent fixture in his life?

In No Ocean Too Wide, we were introduced to the McAlister family who due to illness is torn apart by the "well-intentioned" of England. Forbidden to see or care for her younger siblings, Laura McAlister follows them across the ocean to Canada where they were dispersed as if they were little more than a commodity to be shuffled about. But though partially successful Laura was able to bring just one sibling home - Grace. Years have passed and war has stymied their efforts but in No Journey Too Far we are able to experience the conclusion to the search to restore that which was lost. This is a story of hope even in the face of unexpected obstacles. And it is a story of family and the bonds that draw us together. And it is a story of prejudice - treating those who were labeled British Home Children as something lower than the very association with them somehow tainted those around them. And this is a story of love.

I really enjoyed revisiting the McAlisters, it is hard to believe how recently children were shuffled around and passed off as a less than desirable living being just because of their parental status and their economic class distinction. This is a touching and moving fact-based historical read and one that you should not avoid. There are emotional moments throughout the book and the series that will move you and make you think, and in my opinion, that is the mark of a truly stellar book - it entertains while subtly making you think and consider ideas and topics you would not normally give more than a passing thought to.  This is excellent reading and one that should take the top space on your tbr stack!

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

About the Book:

A family long divided, a mysterious trunk, 

and a desperate journey across the ocean
all in the name of love. 

The epic saga of the McAlisters continues 
in this riveting sequel to 
No Ocean Too Wide.

In 1909, Grace McAlister set sail for Canada as one of the thousands of British Home Children taken from their families and their homeland. Though she is fortunate enough to be adopted by wealthy parents, the secrets of her past are kept hidden for ten years until someone from her long-buried childhood arrives on her doorstep. With this new connection to her birth family, will she be brave enough to leave her sheltered life in Toronto and uncover the truth?

After enduring hardship as an indentured British Home Child, Garth McAlister left Canada to serve in World War I. His sweetheart, Emma Lafferty, promised to wait for his return, but after three long years apart, her letters suddenly stopped. When Garth arrives home from the war to unexpected news, he is determined to return to Canada once more on a daunting mission to find the two women he refuses to abandon—his long-lost sister and his mysteriously missing sweetheart.

Cover Reveal ~ In Search of a Prince

 Today I'm taking part in the cover reveal for Toni Shiloh's In Search of a Prince.

Cover reveals always remind me of Christmas or birthdays where one is waiting in anticipation of that special something that you have been thinking and dreaming about. Well, today is just such a day. And of course, I'm not just going to just pop the cover in for a quick reveal. Reveals should be savored kind of like a favorite dessert (a Lindt Lindor truffle or a piece of Cheesecake) so here we go and enjoy.

      

In Search of a Prince Back short blurb –

Brielle Adebayo’s simple life unravels when she discovers she is a princess in the Kingdom of Oloro Ilé, Africa, and must immediately assume her royal position. Brielle comes to love the island’s culture and studies the language with her handsome tutor. But when her political rivals force her to make a difficult choice, a wrong decision could change her life.

Continue on to the cover reveal - yup I'm evil and keeping you in suspense but it will all be worth it in just a couple more moments. I promise!

Author bio –

Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and multi-published Christian contemporary romance author. She writes to bring God glory and to learn more about His goodness. Her novels, Grace Restored, was a 2019 Holt Medallion finalist, Risking Love a 2020 Selah Award finalist, and The Truth About Fame a 2021 Holt Medallion finalist.

A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and of the Virginia Chapter, Toni seeks to encourage authors in the writing industry. She loves connecting with readers and authors alike via social media. You can learn more about her writing at http://tonishiloh.com.

In Search of a Prince Back long blurb –

Brielle Adebayo is fully content teaching at a New York City public school and taking annual summer vacations with her mother to Martha’s Vineyard. But everything changes when her mom drops the mother of all bombshells—Brielle is a princess in the kingdom of Oloro Ilé, Africa, and she must immediately assume her royal position, since the health of her grandfather, King Tiwa Jimoh Adebayo, is failing.

Distraught by her mother’s betrayal, Brielle is further left spinning when the Oloro Ilé Royal Council brings up an old edict that states she must marry before assuming the throne or the crown will be passed to another. Uncertain who to choose from the council’s list of bachelors, she struggles with the decision along with the weight of her new role in a new country. With her world totally shaken, she must take a chance on love and brave the perils a wrong decision may bring.

Connect with Toni online at any or all of the following –

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authortonishiloh
Twitter: www.twitter.com/tonishilohwrite
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tonishiloh
Instagram: www.instagram.com/tonishiloh
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/tonishiloh
BookBub: www.bookbub.com/authors/toni-shiloh
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