Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem

My Review

Code Name Edelweiss, by Stephanie Landsem, is a stand alone Christian historical fiction based in Los Angeles in 1933. When Liesl loses her job, she contacts Leon Lewis, a Jewish lawyer, for a secretarial position and ends up taking a job as a spy. She volunteers with the Friends of New Germany, an organization set out to get rid of the Jews and take over Hollywood. Leon has another agent, but the agents do not know each other and don’t know who they can trust.

This is a powerful story that gives a look into what may have been happening in the United States while the war with Hilter was happening in Europe. The story is well written with lots of details. It was easy to imagine and kept me reading to see what was going to happen. I enjoyed the family dynamics of Liesl’s family. It was very realistic with how the adult members of the family each had their own ideas of the situation. I enjoyed how the children selected their friends by who they liked and not by nationality. I especially enjoyed seeing how Liesl’s brother changed through out the story. This is a nice story that has drama, suspense, mystery and relationships.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

“What I am looking for—what I desperately need, Mrs. Weiss—is a spy.”

Adolf Hitler is still a distant rumble on the horizon, but a Jewish spymaster and his courageous spies uncover a storm of Nazi terror in their own backyard.

In the summer of 1933, a man named Adolf Hitler is the new and powerful anti-Semitic chancellor of Germany. But in Los Angeles, no-nonsense secretary Liesl Weiss has concerns much closer to home. The Great Depression is tightening its grip and Liesl is the sole supporter of two children, an opinionated mother, and a troubled brother.

Leon Lewis is a Jewish lawyer who has watched Adolf Hitler’s rise to power—and the increase in anti-Semitism in America—with growing alarm. He believes Nazi agents are working to seize control of Hollywood, the greatest propaganda machine the world has ever known. The trouble is, authorities scoff at his dire warnings.

When Liesl loses her job at MGM, her only choice is to work with Leon Lewis and the mysterious Agent Thirteen to spy on her friends and neighbors in her German American community. What Leon Lewis and his spies find is more chilling—and more dangerous—than any of them suspected.

Code Name Edelweiss is based on a true story, unknown until recent years: How a lone Jewish lawyer and a handful of amateur spies discovered and foiled Adolf Hitler’s plan to take over Hollywood.

About the Author

Stephanie Landsem writes historical fiction for women, about women. Her newest novel, Code Name Edelweiss, is based on a true story: how a lone Jewish lawyer and his band of amateur spies discovered and foiled Hitler’s plan to take over Hollywood. You can learn more about her and the books she has written at https://stephanielandsem.com/.

Where to Purchase

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/code-name-edelweiss-stephanie-landsem/1141697387

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Code-Name-Edelweiss-Paperback-9781496460677/1153436006

https://www.christianbook.com/code-name-edelweiss-softcover/9781496460677/pd/460677?product_redirect=1&search_term=Code%20name%20edelweiss&Ntt=460677&item_code=&ps_exit=PRODUCT|legacy&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP

A Novel Proposal by Denise Hunter

My Review

A Novel Proposal, by Denise Hunter, is a wonderfully written, heart warming, stand alone Christian Romance story. Sadie’s publisher has cancelled her western series and is asking for a romance story to avoid repaying her advance, which she no longer has. She spends the summer in a friends duplex, next to a less than pleasant man. Sam is renting the other half of the duplex to get away. His girlfriend left him for his cousin and their wedding is fast approaching.

This is a nice story that is not only a romance but is also a mystery. Sadie builds a free library and a book shows up that contains a diamond ring. Not knowing the area, she convinces neighbor, Sam, to help her. I enjoyed reading this story and following the different leads they have for the ring and especially enjoyed how the results affected them. I especially enjoyed the conversation Sam had with his mother regarding his feeling about Sadie’s story and how it changed the course of their relationship. I admire the strength Sam had is stepping in last minute to help his cousin out at the wedding and how that helped him put the past behind him.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

From the bestselling author of The Convenient Groom (now a beloved Hallmark Original movie) comes a sweet and sizzling story of a romance writer surprised by her own happily ever after.

When novelist Sadie Goodwin is forced to stop writing westerns and charged with penning a contemporary romance novel to rescue her lackluster sales, there’s only one tiny problem: She’s never been in love.

Desperate to salvage her career, Sadie begins devouring romance novels. Knowing she must devote herself to this confounding genre, she accepts an invitation to hole up at her friend’s beach duplex for the summer. Where better to witness love in bloom than on the beautiful North Carolina shore?

However, once ensconced in the charming ocean-front home with her sweet maltipoo Rio, she finds many ways to procrastinate. First there’s the beach, right outside her backdoor, with all its interesting visitors (research). Then there’s the free library she decides to build and set up by the back deck (She has to do something with all those romance novels). To say nothing of Sam Ford, the grumpy neighbor on the other side of the duplex . . . who she can’t seem to stop annoying.

A social butterfly by nature, Sadie soon gets to know all the beach regulars—sunbathers, walkers, and surfers alike. The free books draw a crowd right up to the house for nice little book chats, which further irritates her reclusive neighbor, to break up her “writing.” But things take an unexpected turn when Sadie opens a recently-placed novel to find a secret compartment—and tucked inside is a beautiful engagement ring. To whom does the ring belong? Sadie is convinced she needs to find the owner and save the man’s proposal from certain doom.

She draws a reluctant Sam into the project, and slowly their connection begins to develop. Are these weird fluttery feelings the first stirrings of love? Has Sadie managed to stumble upon the very subject about which she must write—and wouldn’t Sam make the perfect alpha hero?

Will Sadie find the ring’s rightful owner? And will she manage to pen a career-saving romance novel by summer’s end?

About the Author

Denise Hunter is the internationally published bestselling author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been made into Hallmark movies. She has appeared on the The 700 club and won awards such as The Holt Medallion Award, The Carol Award, The Reader’s Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and is a RITA finalist.

Denise writes heartwarming, small-town love stories, peopled with layered characters who struggle with real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the experience of falling in love vicariously through her characters and can expect a happily-ever-after sigh as they close the pages of her books.

In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she’s been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

When Denise isn’t orchestrating love lives on the written page, she enjoys traveling with her family, drinking good coffee, and playing drums. Denise makes her home in Indiana where she and her husband have raised three boys and are currently enjoying an empty nest.

Where to Purchase

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-novel-proposal-denise-hunter/1142627776

https://www.christianbook.com/a-novel-proposal/9780840716590/pd/716596

A Novel Proposal

Love’s New Beginnings by Penny Zeller

My Review

Love’s New Beginnings is the prequel to Penny Zeller’s Wyoming Sunrise series. This book introduces the town of Willow Falls, it’s pastor and the school teacher. Lydie’s aunt’s intended takes off for the Gold rush, leaving Lydie and her aunt’s with no home or jobs. Lydie takes a teaching job in a nearby town. The local pastor, Solomon, is put in charge of the annual first day of school prank for the teacher.

This is such a good story. I just love how it introduces people and events that start out the series. I adore the different characters and just love the talkative student. This is an enjoyable, quick, and easy to read story. It is well written and easy to imagine the story. It is enjoyable to see the relationship between Lydie and Solomon change throughout the story. I also enjoyed the way they both matured with such different caregivers after their parents’ deaths. I appreciate how Lydie finds the strength to voice her feelings when visiting with a woman who feels she is above others. This is such a good story and having read the first main book in the series, I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

Book: Love’s New Beginnings

Author: Penny Zeller

Genre:Christian Historical Romance

Release date: December 13, 2022

Where it all began…

Lydie Beauchamp recently moved with her aunts—sisters Myrtle and Fern—to the untamed Wyoming Territory. When a teaching position in nearby Willow Falls captures her attention, can she leave her aunts, one of whom just suffered a broken heart, and embark on this new adventure? Will she find the courage to persevere in the midst of challenges, one being a handsome challenge named Solomon Eliason?

Reverend Solomon Eliason has the goal of making a difference. Hired as the pastor of Willow Falls, he must convince the congregation that he is able to undertake the role of a reverend. When he’s nominated to be the adult in charge of the annual prank tradition at the school, he embraces the idea, thinking the new teacher will be an elderly crotchety woman like his former teacher. What he doesn’t realize until it’s too late is that the teacher is far from crotchety and elderly.

When Lydie’s and Solomon’s paths cross in an unexpected way during the prank tradition at the Willow Falls school, can Solomon redeem himself in the eyes of the lovely new teacher?

Take a glimpse into where it all began with Lydie and Solomon’s story in this tender tale that reminds us that God can and does use willing hearts for His purposes.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.

Today Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a group fitness instructor. Her desire is to assist and nurture women into a closer relationship with Christ.

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and camping, hiking, canoeing, bicycling/cycling, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball.

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website,  blog, and on Facebook.

More from Penny

Stagecoach etiquette, a casket for sale in the mercantile, and mock turtle soup were just a few of the items included in Love’s New Beginnings. Research is always fun for historical novels, and I even discovered that some people ate skunks back in the “olden days.” Not a regular delicatessen, but they did eat them on occasion. After reading about the ingredients for mock turtle soup and discovering about skunks for dinner (aka supper), I’m even more grateful for enchiladas and regular plain ol’ hamburgers. Historical romance novels are a delight to read, but is Love’s New Beginnings the book for you?

If you love…

To read love stories

Stories set in the late 1800s

Settings in the Wild West in small western towns

Sweet romance and tender love stories

Plentiful humor

Character-driven plots

Faith element organically interwoven into the story

Scenes that tug at the heartstrings

Hilarious antidotes tucked within the pages of a novel

To curl up and escape into the lives of book characters

Realistic plot lines

Close-knit families

Clean and wholesome reads

Memorable characters who stay with you long after the last page

Then Love’s New Beginnings is indeed the book for you!

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 3

Vicky Sluiter, March 3

Texas Book-aholic, March 4

deb’s Book Review, March 5

Cover Lover Book Review, March 6

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 7

EmpowerMoms, March 7

Connie’s History Classroom, March 8

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 10

Books You Can Feel Good About, March 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 11

Splashes of Joy, March 12

For Him and My Family, March 12

Holly’s Book Corner, March 13

lakesidelivingsite, March 14

Vibrant Wings by Valerie, March 14

Pause for Tales, March 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Penny is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/24949/love-s-new-beginnings-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel

My Review

The Maid of Ballymacool, by Jennifer Deibel, is a Christian historical fiction set in Ireland in 1935. Brianna is a young lady who has lived at the boarding school most of her life. She is now working there, expecting to work very long hours and under very strict discipline. When one of the girls starts acting out, her cousin is called to help. Not only does Michael observe what is happening with his cousin, he also sees what is happening to Brianna.

This is an enjoyable story to read. While is starts out slow, once the story gets going it becomes hard to put down. The story also has some mystery with why Brianna is treated the way she is and the history behind the necklace and items she finds. This story is descriptive and easy to imagine. It is well written and easy to read. I enjoyed the wisdom of the older characters in the story. I especially enjoyed the conversation Michael had with the men working at the school one of the men tells him that we are to pray for our enemies, but it’s not easy.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

Brianna Kelly was abandoned at Ballymacool House and Boarding School as an infant. She has worked there since she was a wee girl and will likely die there. Despite a sense that she was made for something more, Brianna feels powerless to change her situation, so she consoles herself by exploring the Ballymacool grounds, looking for hidden treasures to add to the secret trove beneath the floorboards of her room.

When Michael Wray, the son of local gentry, is sent to Ballymacool to deal with his unruly cousin, he finds himself drawn to Brianna, immediately and inescapably. There is something about her that feels so . . . familiar. When Brianna finds a piece of silver in the woods, she commits to learning its origins, with the help of Michael. What they discover may change everything.

Fan favorite Jennifer Deibel invites you back to the Emerald Isle in the 1930s for this fresh take on the Cinderella story, complete with a tantalizing mystery, a budding romance, and a chance at redemption

About the Author

Jennifer Deibel is the bestselling and award-winning author of A Dance in Donegal and The Lady of Galway Manor. She’s also a middle school teacher whose work has appeared on (in)courage, on The Better Mom, in Missions Mosaic magazine, and others. With firsthand immersive experience abroad, Jennifer writes stories that help redefine home through the lens of culture, history, and family. After nearly a decade of living in Ireland and Austria, she now lives in Arizona with her husband and their three children. You can find her online at http://www.jenniferdeibel.com .

Where to Purchase

https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/465113

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-maid-of-ballymacool-jennifer-deibel/1141540011

https://www.christianbook.com/the-maid-of-ballymacool/jennifer-deibel/9780800741747/pd/741745

In Spotlight and Shadow by Rachel Scott McDaniel

My Review

In Spotlight and Shadow, by Rachel Scott McDaniel, is part of the Door to the Past series by Barbour Publishing. This is a series of stand alone stories written by different authors that focuses on different parts in American history. This is a dual time-line story that takes place in 1927 and present day. Sophie is an actress at the Loew’s Penn Theater when a series of burglaries are connected to the Theater and she is suspect. The detective on the case is non other than the man she left at the alter. Present day Elise is working on a project connected to the theater and mysteriously receives a box connected to it. Inside the jacket she finds a piece of jewelry that sends her searching for answers. Meanwhile Elise is working on a special music performance.

This was an enjoyable story to read. It is well written with mystery that kept me reading it and trying to find out the connection to the jewelry. I enjoyed the rebuilding of friendship of Elise and childhood friend/country music megastar Pierson I was totally surprised by the ending.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit through NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. This is my honest review.

About the Book

Book: In Spotlight and Shadow

Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical Fiction / Mystery / Romance

Release date: February 1, 2023

A Gem of a Mystery Takes Center Stage

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

Elise Malvern has a habit of letting people down. Her former boyfriend who hoped she’d be his bride. Her grandfather who hoped she’d take over the family’s auction company. But mostly she’s disappointed herself. What’s the point of pursuing her passion as a violinist, if she is too scared to audition for a seat in the Pittsburgh Symphony? Her internship at the elegant Heinz Hall places her in the wings of the stage, but never on it. By accident, she discovers an old stage prop. Her instincts tell her there’s more to the paste necklace than meets the eye. Whether a good idea or not, she accepts help from a childhood friend, who happens to be country music megastar—Peirson Brooks. Peirson and Elise share a history; one she doesn’t care to repeat. The more involved they become in the mystery, the more things get tangled, including her heart.

A century earlier…
Sophie Walters longs for center stage, her name on the marquee, and all that jazz, but climbing her way into an acting career is more difficult than she imagined. Having spoiled all her chances in Hollywood, she returns to Pittsburgh, accepting an insignificant role in a popular production. She watches her dreams pass by from behind the curtain at the illustrious Loew’s Penn Theatre. She finally gets the coveted spotlight, but not for her talent. No, her surge to fame is all one terrible mistake. Somehow, she’s suspected to be a notorious jewel thief known around Pittsburgh as The Mirage. The man she pleads for help is none other than the man she jilted at the altar five years before, Sterling Monroe.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. Rachel can be found online at http://www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com and on all social media platforms. Her work is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency. Rachel resides in Ohio with her husband and two children.

More from Rachel

HISTORY OF THE LOEW’S PENN/HEINZ HALL THEATER

The Loew’s Penn theater in Pittsburgh opened its doors on September 6, 1927. Thousands of Pittsburghians crammed the streets hoping to enter. Those who were fortunate to claim a seat gasped at the grandeur of what that has been billed the ‘Temple of Cinema.’ The new hotspot in the Steel City was regarded as the most magnificent theater between New York and Chicago.

The Loew’s Penn was five stories high and could seat over 3,000 guests. The grand lobby had a 50-foot-high vaulted Venetian ceiling, gilded Corinthian columns, and two spectacular chandeliers. The crystal for the chandeliers was imported from Vienna. From silk drapes to artwork by Renaissance masters to Italian marble staircases the theater seemed more like a museum than a cinema palace. As for the entertainment, the night began with a live stage show followed by a silent film feature.

Attendance averaged around 60,000 theatergoers a week. And with an admission charge of $.50, the theater made around $30,000 a week. Which was a substantial fortune during the 1920s. The theater hosted live stage shows and they also brought in national acts including Paul Whiteman and the Rhtyhm Boys featuring Bing Crosby. Also Buster Keaton and Eddie Cantor graced the stage.

Over the years, the allure of the Loew’s Penn faded, and the theater fell into disrepair, finally shutting its doors in 1968. The Howard Heinz Endowment purchased the building, saving it from demolition. After a 16-month renovation that had cost over $11 million, the doors opened yet again under the new name of Heinz Hall. The plush red carpet is bold and beautiful, but also a subtle nod to … you guessed it … Heinz Ketchup. The grand lobby features the original marble flooring as well as the two 15-foot chandeliers. The main auditorium seats 2,661 guests. Heinz Hall is now the home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra it also hosts concerts and Broadway touring companies.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, February 25

Melissa’s Bookshelf, February 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 26

Just Your Average reviews, February 26

Rebecca Tews, February 26

Where Faith and Books Meet, February 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 27

deb’s Book Review, February 28

Simple Harvest Reads, February 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 1

Blogging With Carol, March 1

Remembrancy, March 2

Connie’s History Classroom, March 2

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 3

Betti Mace, March 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 4

Cover Lover Book Review, March 4

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 5 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, March 5

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, March 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 6

For Him and My Family, March 6

Through the Fire Blogs, March 7

Bigreadersite, March 7

lakesidelivingsite, March 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 8

For the Love of Literature, March 8

Blossoms and Blessings, March 9

Holly’s Book Corner, March 9

Labor Not in Vain, March 9

Book Looks by Lisa, March 10

Pause for Tales, March 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/24705/in-spotlight-and-shadow-celebration-tour-giveaway

Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward Epic Book Launch

About the Book

Book: Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward

Genre: Non-fiction; Interpersonal Relations; Religion

Release date: April 13, 2023

Authors: Mark Henderson and Michael Snuffer

WHY AM I SO MISUNDERSTOOD? I am only trying to do what is right! Of course, I forgive, but I can’t seem to get past the pain. God seems distant. Does he even care about me?

Do any of these questions hit close to home? It may surprise you that the underlying cause is often hidden unforgiveness. Our closest relationships, emotional health, and perhaps even our faith seem to be crumbling around us, but most of us have no idea that forgiveness is the way forward. If we are honest, we don’t even know what forgiveness is. We may have a vague idea that it has something to do with “forgetting” or “letting go” but would be hard-pressed to come up with a working definition. Worse yet, we have no idea how to practice forgiveness in a way that brings lasting relief from the hurt we carry. Most of us are not trying to hang on to the pain, but freedom is elusive.

Freedom from your pain is within reach! Forgiveness is not a vague, esoteric concept, nor is it a lofty, out-of-reach ideal. Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward digs into the biblical definition of forgiveness, tells real stories of real people who have found healing, clears up some huge misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, and teaches us how to practice forgiveness. If we do not address the wounds of our past, they will shape our future. God has provided a powerful tool to help us find freedom—forgiveness is the surprising way forward!

Book Excerpt 1

The Unforgiveness Trap

The Unforgiving Servant

One day, Jesus was with his disciples, and they asked him a question about forgiveness. He tells the following story about an unforgiving servant. Most of this story makes a lot of sense to us, but this story includes some perplexing ideas. Perhaps Jesus’ disciples asked him some of the same questions I would ask.

²³Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. ²⁴As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. ²⁵Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.

²⁶At this the servant fell on his knees before him. “Be patient with me,” he begged, “and I will pay back everything.” ²⁷The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

Missed Any Excerpts, Come back March 26th.

About the Authors

Mark Henderson received a Masters of Pastoral Counseling, was a licensed counselor, and served as a pastor of counseling for twenty years.

In Memory of Mark Henderson

Mark David Henderson, co-author of this book, passed away from cancer as this book was being finalized. Mark was a loving husband, father, and friend. He touched lives all over the world through his counseling ministry and often said he had a front row seat to God’s miracles. He always made sure the individual knew it was God’s healing, and Mark was simply the servant. His desire was to take what he learned and share it with others, which is the reason for this book.

Michael Snuffer has ministered as a counselor for more than ten years. Mark and Mike founded Equip2CounselTM, a ministry dedicated to providing simple yet powerful counseling tools globally to ministers

Under Fire by Lynn H. Blackburn

My Review

Under Fire, by Lynn H Blackburn, is the third book in the Defend and Protect series. While this is part of a series that takes over when the previous left off with some of the same characters, this is also a great stand alone story. In this story we get to see how Tessa moves forward after her struggle with alcoholism and we get to meet Zane after accepting the job of protecting the President of the United States. When the President is schedules to go to Raliegh to visit old friends and help with a fundraiser, Zane is sent ahead of him and Tessa is in charge of making sure everything is ready and safe for the visit.

This is a fast-paced story that gripped me from the very beginning and help it to the very end. The story has several twists and turns and threats against Tessa and the President at the same time. This is a very enjoyable story to read. I enjoyed the suspense and mystery in the story. This has been an extremely fun series to read with how close the members of the Raleigh Secret Service and other agencies. I enjoyed how they look out for each other, how they support each other and how they look to God for guidance and protection.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

USSS Special Agent Zane Thacker has landed his dream assignment protecting the president of the United States. When the president plans a fundraiser at the exclusive estate of a political supporter in Raleigh, Zane is thrilled to be working again with Special Agent Tessa Reed, his best friend–and the woman he desperately wishes could be more.

Though Tessa almost lost everything, she battled her demons and came out on the other side healthy and healed. But when her role as the liaison between the Raleigh office and the president’s protective detail wrenches her past back into the present, her greatest failure threatens to come to light.

Zane refuses to let Tessa go through this alone. But can he stand by the woman he loves and protect the president from a mounting threat at the same time?

Sparks fly as award-winning romantic suspense writer Lynn H. Blackburn closes out her Defend and Protect series with this explosive tale of secrets kept, lies exposed, and relationships restored.

About the Author

Lynn H. Blackburn believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love. Her Dive Team Investigations series includes Beneath the Surface and In Too Deep (a Fall 2018 Okra Pick and 2019 Selah finalist). The conclusion to the series, One Final Breath, releases in September 2019. She is also the author of Hidden Legacy and Covert Justice which won the 2016 Selah Award for Mystery and Suspense and the 2016 Carol Award for Short Novel.

Where to Purchase

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Defend-and-Protect-Under-Fire-Paperback-9780800737979/966550123

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/under-fire-lynn-h-blackburn/1141540028?ean=9780800737979

https://www.christianbook.com/under-fire-3/9780800737979/pd/737975?event=ESRCQ

Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

My Review

Beyond the Gray Mountains is the first book in A Big Sky Amish novel series by Tricia Goyer. This is such a great start to a new series. It is well written and easy to imagine. I really enjoyed the characters. Marianna was raised Amish and is marrying an English rock star, Ben Stone.

I appreciate how realistic the feelings are that the characters are struggling with . Marianna is struggling with the adjustment to the English life. This is especially evident when she is shopping for her wedding dress. I like how thoughtful Ben is towards Marianna when he finds out reports are planning to be at the wedding. One of the things that stands out to me in this story is how Marianna is feeling about the differences between the Amish rules and the Christian life she is now learning to live. Another is how Marianna and Ben work through the changes that are happening in their lives to make a good marriage. This is such a good story. It grabbed my attention and kept it to the very end.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

Title: Beyond the Gray Mountains

Series: Big Sky Amish #1

Author: Tricia Goyer

Publisher: Sunrise Publishing

Release Date: February 28, 2023

Genre: Christian Contemporary Amish Romance

Marianna Sommer always dreamed of a simple Amish wedding, but there’s nothing simple about marrying rock star Ben Stone. She loves him—but what about her traditions? Worse, suddenly Ben has questions—the kind that have him putting their wedding on hold.

Ben loves Marianna, but he has regrets—and fears—that are suddenly getting in the way of his happy ending. He doubts he’s going to “hear from God” in the high mountains like Marianna’s father suggests. But sure, he’ll go…

But he might not return. Because high on the continental divide, trouble finds them. Now, it’ll take a miracle for Ben, Abe, and Abe’s brother, Ike, to make it down alive. Maybe Ben will hear from God after all…but if he does, can he become the man he needs to be to save them…and keep Marianna’s heart?

When a runaway horse with a bloody saddle shows up, not only is the media alerted, but Marianna fears she’ll lose them all—her uncle, her father, and her beloved Ben. Suddenly she doesn’t care what the wedding looks like…as long as Ben makes it home.

But is there more to Ben than she knows? And when she discovers his secrets, what sacrifices will she make to save…and marry…the man she loves?

Fall in love with the first book in the cherished Big Sky Amish Collection.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound

Other Books In Series

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About the Author

Tricia Goyer writes out of her passion for God and her love for family and others. The author of more than 70 books, she writes both historical fiction and nonfiction related to family and parenting.

This USA Today best-selling author has won a two Carol Awards and a Retailer’s Best Award. She was also an ECPA Gold-Medallion Nominee and a Christy Award Nominee and won Writer of the Year from the Mt. Hermon Christian Writers Conference.

Tricia’s contemporary and historical novels feature strong women overcoming great challenges. She is a beloved author of Amish fiction, having written the Big Sky and Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series.

Whether for fiction or nonfiction, Tricia’s writing style is vivid and heartwarming, allowing readers to take home more than engaging stories, but also messages that inspire faith and hope. Her goal is to write stories that matter.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Beyond the Gray Mountains and a $10 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 27, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 6, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

A Not So Persistent Suitor by Sandra Merville Hart

My Review

A Not So Persistent Suitor, by Sandra Merville Hart, is the second book in the Second Chances series. This is a Christian historical romance that is wonderfully written and fun to read. I enjoyed how I was able to imagine what was happening.

Cora is a young lady attending school to be a kindergarten teacher and has plans to move back to her hometown to teach.

Ben is a struggling news paper reporter who wants to excel at his job. While his writing is exceptional, someone in the office is doing things to make it look bad.

This is a nice story to read. I enjoyed the faith, strength, determination, and energy Cora has to for education and goal towards being a teacher. Ben possesses the same qualities when it comes to his writing. I appreciate how Ben is struggling with issues from his past and how God brings answers for him. I especially enjoyed how Ben and Cora work to find options for their futures with jobs and each other.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

Book: A Not So Persistent Suitor

Author: Sandra Merville Hart

Genre: Christian historical romance

Release date: Febraury 14, 2023

He’s fighting for his career…She’s bent on achieving her own goals…Will their love survive a second chance at happily ever after?

Cora Welch dreams of a future teaching kindergarten, which is in its infancy, and marriage to Ben Findlay, her beau and her twin brother’s best friend. But she returns to college from summer break to learn of Ben’s unwise choices in pursuit of his career—choices that destroy her trust in the man she thought she knew and loved.

Ben is working hard toward his dream to become the best reporter in the city. He’s no stranger to fighting for a goal against all odds, ever since he was orphaned at age thirteen. Even though Cora has captured his heart, he makes the mistake of escorting the boss’s daughter to a fancy banquet to further his career—with far-reaching repercussions. Now he’s hurt Cora and botched his career goals.

Winning Cora’s trust again proves harder than Ben expects, especially as they both face struggles of their own. When events spiral out of their control, catapulting them into hardship and even danger, only God can restore their dreams—though the outcome may look far different than either of them planned.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Sandra Merville Hart, award-winning and Amazon bestselling author of inspirational historical romances, loves to discover little-known yet fascinating facts from American history to include in her stories. Her desire is to transport her readers back in time. She is also a blogger, speaker, and conference teacher. Connect with Sandra on her blog, https://sandramervillehart.wordpress.com/.

More from Sandra

I have wanted to write a story set in Cincinnati, Ohio, in the 1880s for several years. It seems to me that it was on my heart to write while I was still working as a Programmer Analyst and writing was but a dream.

Twins Cora and John had been living on their family’s farm before moving to Cincinnati to attend college. John went rogue on me (he does that in Book 3 too ) and got a job at a newspaper working with Ben, and decided not to go to college. Meanwhile, Ben begins to court Cora.

When our story begins, Cora is in her second and final year at the Cincinnati Kindergarten Training School. Kindergarten is still in its infancy in 1883, when our story begins. In fact, the demand for kindergartens grew in the 1870s. There were about four hundred kindergartens by 1880, and the need to train teachers for them was a natural part of that growth.

A training school in Cincinnati was organized in March of 1880. At first, kindergarten students (aged four – six) learned the 3 R’s –reading, writing, and arithmetic. Before long, principals in higher grades complained that kindergartners also needed a basic knowledge of music, drawing, and manual training.

This led to greater training for kindergartener teachers, who learned teaching tools that included games, songs, and handwork.

I imagine that incorporating games, songs, and activities engaged the children’s interest in a new and fun way for them.

Part of my research included The Songs and Music of Friedrich Froebel’s Mother Play by Fro. Bel. Friedrich. Early training schools used Friedrich Froebel’s writing extensively in their training so I mentioned his Mother Play book within the story.

Though demand for kindergartens was growing, most schools didn’t address the needs of these four to six-year-old children by providing a kindergarten class. Cora has to fight for a local school to start a new class to open the fall after she graduates.

Another fun thing about this novel is the places I’ve included that the modern reader familiar with Cincinnati will recognize:

Fountain Square, the Suspension Bridge, St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the Zoological Gardens to name a few.

Follow characters you’ve grown to love in A Not So Convenient Marriage, Book 1 in the “Second Chances” series into A Not So Persistent Suitor, Book 2!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 15

Blossoms and Blessings, February 15

Texas Book-aholic, February 16

deb’s Book Review, February 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 18

Writing from Walsh Mountain, February 18

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 19

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 20

Connie’s History Classroom, February 21

Holly’s Book Corner, February 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 23

Simple Harvest Reads, February 24 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, February 25

lakesidelivingsite, February 26

Christina’s Corner, February 26

Cover Lover Book Review, February 27

Pause for Tales, February 28

Mary Hake, February 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sandra is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/24516/a-not-so-persistent-suitor-celebration-tour-giveaway

Remember Me by Tracie Peterson

My Review

Remember Me, by Tracie Peterson, is book one in the Pictures of the Heart Series. It is a powerful Christian historical fiction that story grabbed my attention right from the start and kept me reading to the very end. It is a descriptive, well written story that contains faith, love, family issues, friendships and suspense.

Addie’s family went to the Yukon to find gold. While there she met Isaac, they vowed that they would wait for each other while he attended school and they would eventually marry. After her father’s death, her brothers sold her to the brothel owner. At his death, she inherited all his belongs and fled to Seattle to get away from her brothers.

This is a powerful story that contains extreme family issues of abuse. I enjoyed reading this story and seeing how much Addie had changed and how strong she was. I also enjoyed the deep friendships she had developed and what extremes Issac would go to get her back. The thing that stand out to me in this story are how Addie felt she was damaged and unworthy because of her life in Yukon. But many people tried to tell her it was not her sin, but rather a sin against her.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

From the Yukon to Seattle, the hope of a new beginning waits just around the corner.

Addie Bryant is haunted by her past of heartbreak and betrayal. After her beau, Isaac Hanson, left the Yukon, she made a vow to wait for him. When she’s sold to a brothel owner after the death of her father, Addie manages to escape with the hope that she can forever hide her past and the belief that she will never have the future she’s always dreamed of.

Years later, Addie has found peace in her new life as a photographer, training Camera Girls to operate and sell the Brownie camera. During the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Expo in Seattle, Addie is reunited with Isaac, but after the path her life has taken, she’s afraid to expose the ugliness of her former life and to move toward the future they had pledged to each other.

When her past catches up with her, Addie must decide whether to run or to stay and face her wounds in order to embrace her life, her future, and her hope in God.

About the Author

Tracie Peterson is an award-winning, best-selling author of over 100 books. After giving her heart to Jesus at the young age of six, Tracie has felt called to some form of ministry, especially writing. She has speaks at writer’s conferences, and teaches at women’s conferences sharing her testimony and insight for Christian living. Her books have won numerous awards. You can learn more about her and the books she has written at https://traciepetersonbooks.com/.

Where to Purchase

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Pictures-of-the-Heart-Remember-Me-Hardcover-9780764237393/702493259

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/remember-me-tracie-peterson/1141540033?ean=9780764237393

https://www.christianbook.com/remember-me-1-tracie-peterson/9780764237386/pd/237386?event=AAI