English

8.16.2022

Dead Sea Conspiracy ~ Review with Giveaway

Dead Sea Conspiracy JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Dead Sea Conspiracy 
by Jerry B. Jenkins, 

Dead Sea Conspiracy

Dead Sea Conspiracy
Dead Sea Chronicles #2
By Jerry B. Jenkins

Nicole Berman is in Saudi Arabia leading an archeological dig that, if successful, could change what we know via historical artifacts what is known about the Middle East and the three religions that lay claim to the land. As the first woman to lead such a project in Saudi Arabia, she knows that eyes will be watching her closely. And the very nature of her dig will draw challenges, but Nicole is prepared. In fact, her whole life has been preparing for this moment. But the challenges she's about to face could prove to be more than she was expecting. Does she have the endurance and strength to take on what is coming?

Terah has given up more than he thought possible when he refused to give up his idols and his service to King Nimrod. His wife Belessunu has left, taking their son Abram on a journey to learn more about the God of their forefathers. Is it too late to change and return to the One True God? Belessunu prays that her husband will give up his idolatry and return to the faith of his youth.

The Dead Sea Conspiracy takes one to the Middle East - present day Saudi Arabia and ancient Ur. We are taken to site of Nimrod's most notable work - a tower that would reach to the heavens, an attempt to show his supreme being, his godhood.  Could this be what the present day dig will find, or is it something else? There is an interesting bit of intrigue involved in the present day portion of the story as Nicole works to preserve the integrity of her work and thwart any challenges to it. But someone is determined to undermine her work - the only question is who.

I really liked the back-and-forth between the past and the present. I think it adds an interesting depth to the story as it progresses. And, I for one, find the details concerning the dig to be fascinating as this will probably the closest I'll ever get to one. There is not so much detail as to slow the story down but just enough to keep and engage this reader's attention. The characters have a depth to them and the settings come to life on the page - truly a picture painted through words.

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: Dead Sea Conspiracy
Series: Dead Sea Chronicles #2
Author: Jerry B. Jenkins
Publisher: Worthy Books
Release Date: August 23, 2022
Genre: Christian Suspense, Dual Timeline (Biblical & Contemporary) 

In Book 2 of the Dead Sea Chronicles, archaeologist Nicole Berman is about to discover the key to unifying three major religions, if a dangerous and evil enemy doesn’t stop her first. 

She is the first woman to be awarded a permit to lead a dig in Saudi Arabia and believes what she hopes to discover has the power to rewrite history. She assembles a team that will ultimately surprise – and in some cases – betray her. In a parallel storyline, readers are launched back to ancient Ur where young Abram is sent to learn from his forebears, who tell him firsthand stories of being on the ark during the Great Flood.

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

 

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

Dead Sea Rising


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

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

(9) additional winners will receive signed & personalized copies of Dead Sea Rising (paperback) and Dead Sea Conspiracy (hardcover).

Dead Sea Conspiracy JustRead Giveaway 
The full tour schedule is linked below. 
The giveaway begins at midnight on August 16, 2022, and will last 
through 11:59 PM EST on August 23, 2022. 
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.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


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

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

8.15.2022

The Dreaming Beauty ~ Review with Giveaway

The Dreaming Beauty JustRead Blog + Review Tour 

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

The Dreaming Beauty
The Dreaming Beauty
An Enchanted Regency Romance
By Anneka R. Walker

Tansy White's life is cloaked in mystery - she's been raised by her three aunts since her mother's death nearly fifteen years ago. Any questions she's had about her parents have gone unanswered. She knows nothing about her father, even his name. And then there are her dreams - memories of the past and premonitions of the future. Her aunts claim the family is cursed and when her heart is broken by the man she thought loved her she just might agree with them. 

Marcus Taylor has been pursuing private research focusing on dreams. He has been haunted by nightmares for most of his life. He needs to understand so that he can free himself from the power they hold over him. For the past year, he has been managing the estate of his brother Simon, the Duke of Westmorland, while he's abroad in America. A most fortunate circumstance when he stumbles upon a young woman unconscious in the library. 

A late-night walk starts a friendship between Marcus and the ladies of Rose Cottage. Could there be something more than friendship and troubling dreams between Marcus and Tansy? All his life Marcus has been told Simon must marry first, but Tansy White could tempt him to put himself first. 

The Dreaming Beauty is a Regency retelling of Sleeping Beauty that is a lovely story. First, we have three aunts raising their orphaned niece. Second, we have a delightful cottage sort of hidden away in the woods. And in a nod to the Disney version, there is a nod to the pink dress. Or was it blue? 

There are references to the Masked Baron who had his own book. This book is a standalone title that does not need to have The Masked Baron read to enjoy this book. But The Masked Baron is a book you may want to pick up after reading this one (it's an enjoyable, easy read too). This is a lighthearted, easy read that has moments that will make you laugh and others that will exacerbate you. This is a clean read Regency romance that is an excellent introduction to Anneka R. Walker's work if you have not read her before.

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


ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Dreaming Beauty 
Series: Standalone follow-up to The Masked Baron 
Author: Anneka R. Walker 
Publisher: Covenant Communications 
Release Date: July 11, 2022 
Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance / Historical / Regency / Fairy Tale 

Once upon a dream, two cursed people fell in love . . . 

 Tansy White doesn’t want to end up alone like her three aunts who raised her, but when she is betrayed by her would-be betrothed, she fears she might never change her fate. At her aunts’ suggestion, she seizes the chance to visit Rose Cottage, the country home of her late mother. For years, dreams of the cottage have haunted Tansy, and she is convinced it holds the answer to her hidden past. But after getting caught in a terrible storm, she meets a man who is just as determined as she is to learn all her secrets.

Marcus Taylor, brother to the Duke of Westmorland, is also troubled by vivid dreams. On a sleepless night, as a tempest rages outside his brother’s estate, he makes a discovery far more mysterious than any dream: a young woman, cold as ice, lies unconscious in the library, and he is sure she is the key to solving his problems. When she wakes, what begins as a shared quest for information turns into an unexpected friendship. As they piece together the fragments of their pasts, they discover a tangled web of lies, and their feelings for each other become just as entwined. But is their love as strong as their dreams . . . or their fate? 

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

ALSO AVAILABLE

The Masked Baron


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Anneka R. Walker

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

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



TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, 
The Dreaming Beauty, signed bookplate, 
matching bookmark, stickers, and button!
The Dreaming Beauty JustRead Giveaway
The full tour schedule is linked below.
The giveaway begins at midnight on August 15, 2022, and will last 
through 11:59 PM EST on August 22, 2022. 
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.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

8.12.2022

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip ~ Review

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip
By Sara Brunsvold

Clara Kip is dying, but she's not about to do so lying down. Nope, she has an appointment that needs to be met before she's ready to do so. But first, she has to convince a young reporter that sometimes the most important story is one that you need to discover for yourself.

Aidyn Kelley is ready to break out of the shadows and become a feature reporter rather than one that goes uncredited. But rookie reports aren't made for features, and Aidyn is about to learn that the hard way when she makes a muddle of everything and gets an assignment that is surely the absolute worst. She is tasked with writing the obituary for a dying woman - worse, she has to go to the facility where the woman is waiting to die.

But Mrs. Kip proves to be something that Aidyn was not expecting. But she has questions to run through and no time to listen until she does. Clara Kip might declare that she was and is a person of no importance, but there is more to the story than anyone knows.

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip is both lovely and heartbreaking. The deaths in the title have two meanings - the deaths that Mrs. Kip experienced in her own life and the deaths that come out of Aidyn and Clara's conversations. Mrs. Kip's love and compassion make her both endearing and for those who weren't ready for her style of care an annoyance.  The present-day portion of this story is set in 2016, while Mrs. Kip's back story is told in key moments starting in 1969 until 1983.  This is the story of a woman who lived her life like a warrior, who fought for what she believed in until she could fight no more. Don't be surprised if you are moved to tears. as several of the scenes are so well-written that one can feel the character's pain and loss.

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:

Frustrated reporter Aidyn Kelley begrudgingly agrees to help a hospice patient prepare her obituary. But old Clara Kip has some incredible stories—and some surprises up her sleeve—that promise to make this seemingly throwaway assignment a life-changing one.

Shoal Waters ~ Blitz with Spotlight, Excerpt, and Giveaway

Shoal Waters JustRead Blog + Review Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for 
Shoal Waters by Normandie Fischer, 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Shoal Waters Title: Shoal Waters 
Series: Carolina Coast Stories #6 
Author: Normandie Fischer 
Publisher: Sleepy Creek Press 
Release Date: June 14, 2022 
Genre: Inspirational/Clean Women's Fiction 

Dementia, mad gunmen, and a yearning for something more make life difficult for the Beaufort folk in this series finale. 

Georgie's mind threatens to go walkabout, and she'd better get help soon if she's to stop her daughter from taking over. Enter granddaughter, Jeminy, a songwriter from L.A., and Eric, her lawyer. 

Jeminy hates herself and is pretty sure God does, too. There’s that huge unforgiveable sin, plus the boyfriend/manager who dumped her and lost her a music deal. Her mistakes. Her fault. 

When Mother plots to tuck Nana Georgie neatly into a nursing home to gain access to Nana’s money, Jeminy hightails it out of L.A. and back to Beaufort. God may still hate her in North Carolina, but at least she’ll be on hand to protect her beloved grandmother. 

Enter Eric, the lawyer hired to help Georgie protect herself--and possibly Jeminy, too. But Eric just rescued his orphaned stepson from Social Services, and while he’s adept at legal briefs and courtroom dramas, classrooms and angry second graders are brand new territory. 

Guitar in hand, Jeminy tries to write songs to jumpstart her flagging career, but when someone threatens her life, she has to ask why. Could it have to do with the money missing from her bank accounts (and maybe her unstable ex)? If she prays for help, will God even listen to someone with her baggage? 

With the help of the Beaufort crew, a new father and a terrified musician struggle to safeguard everyone they love, but it’s going to take more than good neighbors to show each of them the true meaning of grace. 

Purchase Links*
Excerpt

Jeminy didn’t—wouldn’t—care that her life had been reduced to a moderate
savings account and the plans she now had to make. Nana’s call precipitated her
decision to move out of Los Angeles, and that was no bad thing. It was past time.

This place of promise and glitter had captivated her until she’d looked more
closely at its underbellies, from enclaves peopled with the untouchable elite to Skid
Row’s un-helped homeless. Many of those living in between stumbled around on
the verge of bankruptcy as they clawed toward access to the gated communities.

Once upon a time, she’d been on the fringes of money and fame.
She didn’t—wouldn’t—care about the trappings of her big-city life she’d be
leaving, not the BMW she’d thought hers, not this apartment.

...Tomorrow, it would be off with the old and on with the new, whatever that
was and wherever it would take her and her guitar. A few more hours and this place
would be on the way to being forgotten.

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

Becalmed Heavy Weather Twilight Christmas 

Sailing out of Darkness The Sea Prayers


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

Her life changed radically when she married the love of her life at an age when some would have said she was over the hill and way past her prime. (Clichés often speak the truth, don't they?) A lifelong sailor, she was delighted to find that Michael also longed to cruise lovely waters, which is what they did from Northern CA to Mexico, spending too-few years in the incomparable Sea of Cortez. Sea Venture, their 50' ketch, is back home in North Carolina now because Normandie's mama needed care. Still, it's gorgeous there, too, and she can write from home as easily as she could on the boat. 

Her two grown children and two step-sons are handsome (or gorgeous, as the case may be), talented, and a delight. And now there's a granddaughter and grandson in the mix--woohoo! She just wishes they lived a lot closer to home.

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

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

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

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


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

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

8.11.2022

The Wrong Side of Murder ~ Review with Giveaway

THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER (a Nikki Bryant Cozy Mystery) by Lauren Carr
The Wrong Side of Murder
A Nikki Bryant Cozy Mystery #2
By Lauren Carr

Nikki Bryant and Elmo are back and the cold case that is about to capture Nikki's attention involved a classmate who was tried and convicted in the court of public opinion of her mother's murder.

Jodi Gibbons never saw her mother's murderer brought to justice because Pine Grove, Pennsylvania, found Jodi guilty when she became the victim of gossip and rumor. Twenty years have passed a chance meeting finds Nikki looking to right the wrongs of the past and give Jodi a chance to  bring her side before the listening and viewing public. And with any luck the true killer will be found. But someone wants Jodi to be silent on the subject. But with Nikki on the case she's not about to let the killers away with another murder and have an innocent woman again take the blame.

But could Nikki be seeing something that isn't there? She's going to put her award winning investigative skills to the test. And if she gets a little help along the way from friends, family, and significant other all the better to get to the long ridden past. And Elmo is available when not putting his other talents to use.

This is the second book in the Nikki Bryant series and it is an engaging read, just as Killer Deadline was, though I did miss Nikki's interactions with @nerdyguy. And like almost everyone who's met Elmo, I've become a fan of this distinct, unique, and highly intelligent dog who just happens to be a social media sensation, and with good reason. So if you are looking for a new cozy mystery to enjoy give Nikki, Elmo, and all the Bryant clan a place on your TBR list, you won't be sorry. This is a fun mostly lighthearted murder mystery (murder being the non-lighthearted moment btw), with a dog you'll adore.

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 Details:

Book Title:  The Wrong Side of Murder (A Nikki Bryant Cozy Mystery) by Lauren Carr
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  274 pages
Genre:  Mystery/Cozy Mystery
Publisher:  Acorn Book Services
Release date:   July 21, 2022
Content Rating: This cozy mystery is rated G for everyone!

The Wrong Side of Murder is another wonderful cozy mystery by author Lauren Carr. It has all the elements that draw me in - an intelligent female lead, an equally smart boyfriend who partners to help her, a complicated plot where clues are slowly revealed, people who aren't what they seem to be, comedic moments to balance the darker ones, and several quirky pets full of personality.  

It's a wonderful book to escape into at the end of the day. And get ready to read into the wee hours as, if you're like me, you won't be able to stop reading until the mystery is revealed.  
- Marilyn R. Wilson, Olio by Marilyn
Nikki's an intense individual who makes the perfect investigative journalist. She wants answers yesterday and she is willing to dig in to get them. She might get it wrong at the beginning but with the help of her family and close friends, she'll get the answers she wants and needs. – review by Blooming with Books

Book Description:

Nikki Bryant’s Next Case Takes Her to the Wrong Side of Murder

One spring morning, Jodi Gibbons got up and went to school as she did every day. Her young life went sideways, though, when the police found that her mother had been brutally killed during the night.

Twenty years later, many in Pine Grove believe Jodi got away with murder. After all, how could she have possibly slept through her mother’s violent death in the very next room?

After decades of silence, Jodi accepts investigative journalist Nikki Bryant’s invitation to tell her side of the story. However, before the interview can take place, someone silences Jodi permanently.

Now it is up to Nikki Bryant and her friends to uncover the secret that Jodi Gibbons has been protecting—a secret someone believes it is worth killing to keep from being revealed.

Buy the Book:
Amazon
BookBub 
add to goodreads

Author Lauren Carr and SterlingMeet the Author:

​Selling over half a million books worldwide, Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, Thorny Rose, Chris Matheson Cold Case Mysteries, and Nikki Bryant Cozy Mysteries—thirty titles across five fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!

Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, crime fiction, police procedurals, romance, and humor. 

The owner of Acorn Book Services and iRead Book Tours, Lauren is also a publishing manager, consultant, and virtual book tour coordinator for independent authors.  

Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. 

She lives with her husband, and two spoiled rotten German shepherds on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV. 

connect with the author: website ~ blog ~ facebook instagram ~ twitter pinterest

Tour Schedule:

Aug 1 –Rockin' Book Reviews – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/guest post/giveaway
Aug 1 -Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 2 –She Just Loves Books – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 3 – Bound 4 Escape – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 3 - Chit Chat with Charity - audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 4 – Rockin' Book Reviews – audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 4 -Cover Lover Book Review – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 5 -Cover Lover Book Review – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 8 - Review Thick And Thin – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 8 – Kam's Place – book review of KILLER DEADLINE
Aug 8 - Blooming with Books - audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 9 – Olio by Marilyn – book series spotlight/author interview/giveaway
Aug 9 – Olio by Marilyn – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 10 – Kam's Place – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 10 - Chit Chat with Charity - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 10 - The Momma Spot – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 11 – Literary Flits – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 11 - Blooming with Books - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 11 - Books for Books - audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE
Aug 12 - Book Corner News and Reviews - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 15 – Stephanie Jane – book series spotlight/giveaway
Aug 16 – The Momma Spot – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway    
Aug 16 - Books for Books - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 17 – Paws.Read.Repeat – audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 17 - Older & Smarter? – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 17 – fundinmental – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 17 - Ebook addicts – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 18 – Christa Reads and Writes – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 18 - Pause for Tales – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 19 - Paws.Read.Repeat –book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 19 - Bigreadersite - book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 19 - Older & Smarter? – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 22 - Review Thick And Thin – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 23 - Splashes of Joy  - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 23 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 24 - Splashes of Joy  - book series spotlight/giveaway
Aug 24 – Books Are Love – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 24 - My Reading Journeys – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 25 - I'm Into Books - book series spotlight/giveaway
Aug 25 – Books Are Love – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 26 - Bigreadersite - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 26 – Books and Zebras – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 26 - Adventurous Jessy - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 26 - Reading Excursions - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER



Enter the Giveaway:

8.09.2022

Enflamed ~ Review


Enflamed
Knights of Brethren #5
By Jodi Hedlund

Sylvi Prestegard has always considered Espen as someone she could depend on to aid her, and if ever there was a time she needed his aid, it was now.  But Espen, like her brother Kristoffer, is on a quest for the king. To stop King Canute's Dark Warriors, the Holy Lamp must be located with all haste to prevent Norvegia from falling to Swaine.

But when Espen's entreaties on Sylvi's behalf are denied and met with scorn, Sylvi knows she must thwart the evil plans being made that will destroy her future and threaten Norvegia's throne. The only way that she can see to save the kingdom and her future is to wed Espen.

But Espen knows he will never be worthy of any noblewoman, much less, Sylvi, who has been groomed all her life, to use her beauty as a tool in her father's quest for greater worth and prestige. But he must save Sylvi, and Espen only hopes he can be strong enough to do what must be done to keep her protected until she is free from her father's threat.

Filled with all the adventure and daring of the previous books in the Knights of Brethren series, Enflamed will keep you reading until the very end. You won't want to put this one down, and it will keep you reading until the early hours of the morning. There are some unexpected twists as Espen and Sylvi's quest reveals a threat no one knew about - one that could spell the end of all of Norvegia's hopes to stop Swaine and the threat she and her king pose.

Enflamed could easily be read without first reading the first four books in the series but reading the books in order will make for a more satisfying reading experience. This is one series I highly recommend reading in order.

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.

Don't you just love this cover?


About the Book:
During a time when legends were born . . .

ENFLAMED

The most beautiful noblewoman in the kingdom, 
the lowly knight who can never have her, 
and the forbidden love they share.

When Sylvi Prestegard discovers that her father has arranged for her to marry a wealthy nobleman known for his thieving ways, she’s desperate to avoid the union. She turns to her childhood friend Espen, a Knight of Brethren, counting on his loyalty and kindness to help her escape.

Espen has been given an urgent mission to locate the holy lamp, an ancient relic necessary to defeat the enemy invading their country. In addition to his royal quest, he’s determined to protect Sylvi, the woman he’s always secretly loved. When she suggests the two of them marry to thwart her father’s plans, Espen cannot deny her request.

As they search for the holy lamp, Lord Prestegard pursues them, intent on reclaiming his daughter. With Espen’s life at stake, Sylvi must conspire to save them both. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles that stand between them, or are the flames of their forbidden love destined to be extinguished?


The real story of the Holy Lamp . . .

8.08.2022

Killer Deadline ~ Review with Giveaway


Killer Deadline
A Nikki Bryant Cozy Mystery #1
By Lauren Carr
Read by Anita Alger

Nikki Bryant's life was changed when her father was murdered when she was 12 years old. Now Nikki has returned to Pine Grove, PA, as an award-winning investigative journalist, and solving her father's cold case is on her to-do list. Of course, she also has her family's local television station to run. And then there is her first love to try reconnecting with. And don't you dare call Ryan Spaulding her brother - there are no blood relations between them, just two widowed parents who got married.

And then there is the 5-year contract her childhood enemy just signed with the station- UGH! When Nikki's jock about murder being one way to break a contract becomes reality, she's left to put her investigative skills to use to find any connection to her father's murder and clear her name. Of course, she's not about to refuse any help Ryan might offer in her search for answers. 

First off, you are going to LOVE Elmo - Nikki's crime-solving, social media star, of a dog. Elmo has some very unique skills that leave you with at least a smile on your face. And unlike Gnarly, of the Mac Farraday series, Elmo doesn't fall on the wrong side of the law. Nope, he is one law-abiding dog.

Killer Deadline is the first book in the Nikki Bryant series, which presents cozy mysteries set in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania. Nikki's family is an interesting mix of complicated, and she's finally returning home after establishing herself as an investigative journalist. Her return includes taking the reins of her family's tv station, which has been under her mother's guiding hand since her father was murdered years ago. 

This story has plenty of amusing scenes that will keep it light and unbogged down by the murders. The setting is contemporary, and the genre is definitely on the cozy side of mystery. I enjoyed this book in the audio format and at just over 6-1/2 hours an easy read that I could listen to in one week as I commuted to and from work. Anita Alger narrated and did an excellent presenting the story so that it was well-paced and engaging. Whether you enjoy reading or listening to your book, this is one you'll want to add to your summer TBR list.

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 Details:

Book Title:  Killer Deadline (A Nikki Bryant Cozy Mystery) by Lauren Carr
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  232 pages
Genre:  Mystery/Cozy Mystery
Publisher:  Acorn Book Services
Release date:   April 23, 2020
Content Rating: This cozy mystery is rated G for Everyone!

I love this cozy mystery! It is full of suspense, action packed, fast pace with that small town feeling. I love the characters, I have to admit, I fell in love with Elmo on the spot! I loved Nikki's spunk and determination. She keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire book! I highly recommend this book to those who loves a good cozy mystery!! - 5-Star Review at Splashes of Joy 

Book Description:

​Folks in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania, claim that where Nikki Bryant goes, trouble is not far behind. Her refusal to back down from a challenge has made Nikki Bryant a top investigative journalist.

When an online friend nudges her to join him in a pact to reconnect with their first loves, Nikki and her boxer dog Elmo leave the bright lights of Las Vegas for the charming town of Pine Grove. There, she must face the biggest challenges in her career and life—the first love she had left behind and her father’s unsolved murder.

But before she has time to unpack her car, Nikki stumbles upon the dead body of local news anchor, Ashleigh Addison, her childhood rival. Could Ashleigh’s death be connected to an explosive news story that she had teased about airing live? Did that explosive story have anything to do with the murder of Nikki’s father?

With the clues in her father’s cold case hot again, Nikki intends to chase down the story of her life until she catches his killer—no matter what it takes. 
Buy the Book:
Amazon.com ~ Audible ~ BookBub
Add to Goodreads

Author Lauren Carr and SterlingMeet the Author:

​Selling over half a million books worldwide, Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, Thorny Rose, Chris Matheson Cold Case Mysteries, and Nikki Bryant Cozy Mysteries—thirty titles across five fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!

Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, crime fiction, police procedurals, romance, and humor. 

The owner of Acorn Book Services and iRead Book Tours, Lauren is also a publishing manager, consultant, and virtual book tour coordinator for independent authors.  

Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. 

She lives with her husband, and two spoiled rotten German shepherds on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV. 

connect with the author: website ~ blog ~ facebook instagram ~ twitter pinterest

Tour Schedule:

Aug 1 –Rockin' Book Reviews – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/guest post/giveaway
Aug 1 -Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 2 –She Just Loves Books – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 3 – Bound 4 Escape – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 3 - Chit Chat with Charity - audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 4 – Rockin' Book Reviews – audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 4 -Cover Lover Book Review – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 5 -Cover Lover Book Review – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 8 - Review Thick And Thin – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 8 – Kam's Place – book review of KILLER DEADLINE
Aug 8 - Blooming with Books - audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 9 – Olio by Marilyn – book series spotlight/author interview/giveaway
Aug 9 – Olio by Marilyn – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 10 – Kam's Place – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 10 - Chit Chat with Charity - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 10 - The Momma Spot – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 11 – Literary Flits – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 11 - Blooming with Books - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 11 - Books for Books - audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE
Aug 12 - Book Corner News and Reviews - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 15 – Stephanie Jane – book series spotlight/giveaway
Aug 16 – The Momma Spot – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway    
Aug 16 - Books for Books - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 17 – Paws.Read.Repeat – audiobook review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 17 - Older & Smarter? – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 17 – fundinmental – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 17 - Ebook addicts – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 18 – Christa Reads and Writes – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 18 - Pause for Tales – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 19 - Paws.Read.Repeat –book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 19 - Bigreadersite - book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 19 - Older & Smarter? – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 22 - Review Thick And Thin – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 23 - Splashes of Joy  - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 23 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 24 - Splashes of Joy  - book series spotlight/giveaway
Aug 24 – Books Are Love – book review of KILLER DEADLINE/giveaway
Aug 24 - My Reading Journeys – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 25 - I'm Into Books - book series spotlight/giveaway
Aug 25 – Books Are Love – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 26 - Bigreadersite - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 26 – Books and Zebras – book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER
Aug 26 - Adventurous Jessy - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER/giveaway
Aug 26 - Reading Excursions - book review of THE WRONG SIDE OF MURDER



Enter the Giveaway: