The Finding Of Miss Fairfield By Grace Hitchcock

The Finding of Miss Fairfield

by Grace Hitchcock

Publisher: Valmont House Publishers

Series: Aprons & Veils

AISN: B09X3W2PZR

It's always fun to join a launch team! This cover was so adorable, and the series idea appealed to me so I applied to join. I received this ebook ARC for review as part of the launch team.

Summary:

When an engagement of convenience becomes anything but convenient . . .

Forced into a betrothal with a widower twice her age, Charleston socialite, Sophia Fairfield is desperate for an escape. But, while her fiancé is away on business, he assigns his handsome stepson, Carver, the task of looking after his bride-to-be. Much to her dismay, Sophia finds herself falling in love with the wrong gentleman—a man society would never allow her to marry, given Sophia was supposed to be his new stepmother. The only way to save Carver from scandal and financial ruin is to run away, leaving him and all else behind to become a Harvey Girl waitress at the Castañeda Hotel in New Mexico.

Carver Ashton has had his life planned out for him since birth, but when he encounters Sophia Fairfield, he glimpses a new life—apart from his overbearing stepfather’s business. But, when the woman he loves disappears before he can express his devotion, Carver abandons all to find her. However, his stepfather has other intentions for Sophia and will stop at nothing until she is his bride . . . even if it is against her will.

My Review:

I'm not sure what it is, but I'm always drawn to stories about the Harvey Girls. This story was no different. The Finding of Miss Fairfield was an easy, quick read and will satisfy any historical fiction lover.

I liked Sophia because she absolutely refused to give in to her father's scheming to marry her off to a man old enough to be her father. Of course, the twist comes in that she meets Prescott's stepson, Carver, right as they're getting ready to announce the engagement.

Carver is immediately likable and it's clear he's nothing like his stepfather. As he watches over Sophia you can see his appreciation for her gumption and his desire to protect her. Unfortunately, since he doesn't make his intentions clear and society tells them how wrong their relationship would be she high tails it out of town to create a new life for herself.

And just in time, Sophia learns about Harvey Girls and sets off with the promise of a job. It's a bit amusing since she has no experience doing any kind of work since she comes from a wealthy family. It's sad though because of the competition of the ladies there vying for the various men's attention. There are misunderstandings which lead to even worse situations.

There's a Sheriff named Kane, and his connection to Carver is an interesting one. There are a number of things that happen in regards to him, and this was the one storyline that I disliked in this story. He's a rather despicable character and it's known by several other characters, yet the direction they move in is baffling to me. I don't want to give things away, but I was very disappointed in the choices others made even knowing his character.

A lot was predictable in the story, but if you're a history buff, you'll certainly enjoy this story!

About the Author:

Grace Hitchcock is an award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives in Baton Rouge with her husband, Dakota, son and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com. 

Laura's Shadow By Allison Pittman + GIVEAWAY

Welcome to the Takeover Tour for Laura's Shadow by Allison Pittman, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Laura's Shadow 

Series: Doors to the Past 

Author: Allison Pittman 

Publisher: Barbour Fiction 

Release Date: May 1, 2022 

Genre: Christian, Dual Timeline Fiction, Romance 

Can Promises Made in Times of Struggle Endure 200 Years?

De Smet, South Dakota—1890

Young women growing up in De Smet live by two rules: don’t go out in a snowstorm and don’t give your heart to Cap Garland. Young Mariah Patterson only managed to obey one. Orphaned and having devoted her youth to scrapping out a life with her brother Charles, Mariah finds herself with no option but to marry the devoted—but dull—Merrill Gowan. Throwing caution to the wind, she seizes an opportunity to lay her feelings at Cap’s feet, even though she knows Cap sees the world through the torch he carries for Laura Ingalls. Mariah is certain her love for Cap will be strong enough to break both bonds, and she’s willing to risk everything to prove it. 

De Smet, South Dakota—1974 

Trixie Gowan is the fourth generation of living Gowan women residing in the sprawling farmhouse on the outskirts of De Smet. Well, former resident. She’s recently acquired her own bachelor girl apartment in Minneapolis, where she works writing ads for a neighborhood paper. She might live and work in the city, but her co-workers still call her Prairie Girl. Thus the inspiration for her comic strip—"Lost Laura"—in which a bespectacled girl in a calico dress tries to make her way in the city. The name is a quiet rebellion having grown up in a household where she’d been forbidden to mention the name, Laura. But when her great-grandmother Mariah’s declining health brings Trixie home for a visit, two things might just keep her there: the bedside manner of Dr. Campbell Carter and the family secret that seems to be spilling from GG’s lips one conversation at a time. 

Visit historic American landmarks through the Doors to the Past series. History and today collide in stories full of mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance. 

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

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Allison Pittman is the author of more than a dozen critically acclaimed novels and a four-time Christy finalist—twice for her Sister Wife series, once for All for a Story from her take on the Roaring Twenties and most recently for the critically acclaimed The Seamstress which takes a cameo character from the Dickens’ classic A Tale of Two Cities and flourishes her to life amidst the French Revolution. She lives in San Antonio, Texas, blissfully sharing an empty nest with her husband, Mike.

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

---

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Laura's Shadow and a $15 Amazon egift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 24, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 31, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

---

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Among The Innocent By Mary Alford

Among the Innocent

by Mary Alford

Publisher: Revell

ISBN: 9780800740269

Sometimes I'm surprised when an author reaches out to me asking me to review their book. I'd seen so many incredible reviews about this book I never expected the author to reach out to me. When she did, I couldn't say, "No." She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

When Leah Miller's entire Amish family was murdered ten years ago, the person believed responsible took his own life. Since then, Leah has left the Amish and joined the police force. Now, after an Amish woman is found murdered with the same MO, it becomes clear that the wrong man may have been blamed for her family's deaths.

As Leah and the new police chief, Dalton Cooper, work long hours struggling to fit the pieces together in order to catch the killer, they can't help but grow closer. When secrets from both of their pasts begin to surface, an unexpected connection between them is revealed. But this is only the beginning. 

What will it mean for Leah--and Dalton--when the full truth comes to light?

My Review:

Holy smokes! What a fantastic introduction to this author!

Having never read any of her books before, but seeing fantastic reviews about the story, I figured I'd give it a go! Let me tell you, Among the Innocent did NOT disappoint!

I was hooked from the prologue until the very last page. Even in the prologue I became attached immediately to one of the characters. Then we meet the main characters of the story and it's a thriller from the get-go. I think that while it's set around an Amish community, I wouldn't consider it Amish fiction. Definitely more suspense!

Leah is an incredibly strong character! Everything she's been through with the murder of her family and trying to move on with her life only to have it explode in her face as she approaches the 10th anniversary of their killing shows her tenacity to survive!

Dalton was a bit of a mystery as he takes over as the police chief. The timing couldn't be any worse and now he has to jump in head first to new murders in the community. His secrets were interesting to uncover along the way as well!

Let me just say, the evilness that filters through the bad guy in the story is palpable. It just oozes on the page. I would say this isn't a book you want to read late at night, by yourself. Well, except for the fact that you'll have a very hard time putting the book down because it'll have you riveted!

There's a twist to the story that was a bit (not entirely) unexpected, but the way it's all explained put a stunned look on my face, I'm sure.

Now that I'm finished with this story I want to go find all of the author's other books!

About the Author:

Mary Alford is a USA Today bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can't put down. Her titles have been finalists for several awards, including the Daphne Du Maurier, the Beverly, the Maggie, and the Selah. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog. Learn more at www.maryalford.net.

Dead Sea Conspiracy By Jerry B. Jenkins + GIVEAWAY

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Dead Sea Conspiracy by Jerry B. Jenkins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I was sent this book as part of this book tour. The review is my personal opinion.

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

My Review:

This was an interesting conclusion to this duology. While in the first book the first two timelines didn't make sense on how they'd come together, after reading book two I look at it as a funnel. In book one the timelines are far apart, but the closer we got to Abraham's life it starts to come together.

Book two picks up right where the first one leaves off. Doctor Nicole still seems like a flat character. The author tries to write her as intense, but oftentimes I didn't find her to be that strong of a character. She has an end goal in mind, but seems very naive to what her dig means to not only her team, the Saudis, and the world at large although she says she does.

There were parts of the story that got my attention, especially as more comes to light in regards to those on her team, but other parts of her storyline felt like space filler. There is an interesting twist that I was rather surprised about. I also felt like the author was really trying hard to get a message across about salvation that didn't seem...subtle? It just didn't feel like it flowed "naturally"?

I ended up liking the Biblical times timeline better this time. I think it's because I read the book and didn't listen to it. Terah is still a rather simpering man. I liked that God didn't give up on him even after all of the evil he did. Honestly, I would've preferred to follow his wife, Belessunu. lol She was much easier to read and like, but then we wouldn't have been able to see the change in Terah and his (very weak) faith in the Lord.

I ended up liking how the storylines ended in both times, although I would've liked more closure in the current timeline. I could see more books springing off the current timeline. I liked that the Biblical time followed Scripture and the stories we know about Abraham, Sarah, and Issac.  

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

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).

 

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 16, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 23, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

---

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

The Apple Creek Announcement By Wanda E. Brunsetter + GIVEAWAY

Welcome to the Takeover Tour for The Apple Creek Announcement by Wanda E. Brunstetter, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Apple Creek Announcement 

Series: Creektown Discoveries #3 

Author: Wanda E. Brunstetter 

Publisher: Barbour Fiction 

Release Date: August 1, 2022

Genre: Fiction / Christian / Romance

An Artist Seeks Her Birth Mother 

Welcome to Apple Creek, Ohio, where a piano teacher has a fascination with painting the rural Amish landscapes around her home. Andrea Wagner has made it to her thirties feeling like she has had a charmed life and finally has fallen in love with Brandon Prentice, a local veterinarian. But then she discovers she was adopted—and all she thought she knew about herself has crumbled. Andrea becomes so fixated on finding her birth mother that she pushes Brandon away. A friend suggests Andrea write to the “Dear Caroline” column in the newspaper for romance advice, and she finds herself revealing her issues with being adopted in the letter. “Dear Caroline” receives the letter but struggles to find the right advice given her own conflicted past. What will Andrea lose before she finds herself again?  

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

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written more than 100 books translated in four languages. With over 11 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs. 

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Connect with Wanda by visiting www.wandabrunstetter.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of The Apple Creek Announcement and a $15 Amazon egift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 17, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 24, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

---

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Deception By Patricia Bradley

Deception

by Patricia Bradley

Publisher: Revell

Series: Natchez Trace Park Rangers

ISBN: 9780800735760

I wasn't ready to leave Natchez Trace, but also couldn't wait to read Deception, book 4 in the series. Thankful to the publisher for sending me the book for review.

Summary:

She refuses to let someone from her past define her future.
But does she really have a choice in the matter?

After being forced to kill an FBI agent gone rogue in self-defense, ISB ranger Madison Thorn is happy to be working in the fraud and cybercrimes division. At least numbers don't lie. So she's less than thrilled when she's drawn into a violent crime investigation in Natchez, Mississippi. She could also do without being forced to work with former-childhood-enemy-turned-infuriatingly-handsome park ranger Clayton Bradshaw.

When a woman who looks just like Madison is attacked on the same night Madison's grandfather is shot, it becomes clear that there is something much bigger going on . . . and that Madison herself is in danger. Madison and Clayton will have to work together--and suppress their growing feelings for one another--if they are to discover the truth before it's too late.

My Review:

What a crazy conclusion to this series! I couldn't believe how much happened in Deception from pretty much the start!

We meet Madison on her way to Natchez Trace and simultaneously meet Clayton. And then, people start being shot and dying! From beginning to end. Let me just say, the last person you wanted to know is Madison! lol 

There were so many layers to this story! There was a LOT going on, but not so much you can't keep it all straight. As the layers are peeled back, trying to figure out who the bad guy is gets harder and harder. I was pretty sure who it was a couple times, but I was mostly wrong. Trying to untangle it all proved more than difficult.

My heart went out to Madison. You know characters deal with a variety of issues, but Madison couldn't get away from blow after blow. Clayton was a great contrast with his calm demeanor helping her each step of the way. Of course, he had some of his own demons to contend with, including an addiction he's recovering from.

There's definitely a faith element in the story, but I would've liked to see more of a development with it in regards to Madison. It was good to see Clayton struggling with the growth of his faith through a variety of circumstances. 

If you want to be surprised constantly throughout a story, look no further!

About the Author:

Patricia Bradley is the author of Standoff, Obsession, and Crosshairs, as well as the Memphis Cold Case novels and Logan Point series. Bradley won an Inspirational Reader's Choice Award in Romantic Suspense, a Daphne du Maurier Award, and a Touched by Love Award; she was a Carol Award finalist; and three of her books were included in anthologies that debuted on the USA Today bestseller list. She is cofounder of Aiming for Healthy Families, Inc., and she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Sisters in Crime. Bradley makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.

Free Fall By Nancy Mehl

Free Fall

by Nancy Mehl

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: The Quantico Files

ISBN: 9780764237652

I was excited to finish The Quantico Files series by Nancy Mehl! There's been a lot of anticipation for Free Fall. The publisher sent me the book for review on behalf of the author!

Summary:

The closer she comes to the truth, the deadlier her chase gets. 

FBI behavioral analyst Alex Donovan and her colleague Logan Hart have been called upon to write a profile for a missing woman, but a little digging quickly turns up more disappearances in Virginia with the same physical description. 

Alex is in a race against the clock to rescue the missing victims, so when the UNSUB makes demands of her in exchange for information, Alex takes the bait. But when her life is put in jeopardy, Logan must do whatever it takes to track them down before time runs out.

Alex works to think one step ahead of the suspect, but the more Logan and the BAU learn about the serial kidnapper, the more they fear Alex may not make it out alive.

My Review:

Well, if it's any indication of how deep I was in to Free Fall, I stayed up so late reading that I could barely keep my eyes open.

This was a twist on a movie I never saw in the theaters because I can only handle so much. In fact, I was so engrossed in this story that I woke up in a bit of a panic on the second night! The storyline was definitely getting into my psyche. lol

I really enjoyed, once again, how the author gives us a glimpse into how profilers work. I can't even imagine what it's like living in their brains! Trying to work out all of the small bits of information they have to figure out who the bad person is is fascinating. Alex seemed more "centered" in book three. I think she'd been through so much and grown as a character that now in book three she seems to have "normalized" as much as she can. I thought Logan's storyline was an interesting one as well.

Needless to say, the storyline was creepy. I actually guessed what was going on not too far into the story, but trust me, it didn't make it any less nail biting. There were a couple uses of God's name that I felt were in "vain" and not necessary. On the opposite end of the spectrum though, I loved that the characters would pray together, individually, and talk openly about their faith. I'm always thankful when an author doesn't shy away from adding that strong element to the story!

The end happened way too quickly for me. I would've liked another half of a chapter or so to get a bit more closure or understanding or maybe even a little more of a struggle where the bad guy revealed more about his craziness. I don't know, it just ended so fast I wasn't quite prepared.

And then there's another ending which I felt, after three books, I would've liked to be more of a fly on the wall for the truths to come out instead of having it explained to me in just a paragraph or two.

That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed the story as well as the entire series! I look forward to more suspense/thrillers from the author!

About the Author:

Nancy Mehl (www.nancymehl.com) is the author of more than forty books and a Christy Award finalist, as well as a Carol Award winner, the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, and the winner of the Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense in the inspirational romance category. Her short story, "Chasing Shadows," was in the USA Todaybestselling Summer of Suspense anthology. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson.

Shoal Waters By Normandie Fischer + GIVEAWAY

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for Shoal Waters by Normandie Fischer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I received the ebook as part of this tour.

ABOUT THE BOOK

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*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub  

Enjoy this excerpt:

Jeminy Chapter 5

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.

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

 

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

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)!

 

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 10, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 17, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

---

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Blood Secrets By Morgan Busse

Blood Secrets

by Morgan Busse

Publisher: Enclave Escape

Series: Skyworld

ISBN: 979-8886050004

After being so thoroughly drawn in by book one, Secrets in the Mist, I was thrilled to join the launch team for book two in this duology. 

Summary:

Not everyone wants to see the world saved . . .

Time is running out. Cities are being engulfed in the Mist and humanity is on the brink of extinction. Theo believes he has found a way to stop mankind from Turning, but he doesn’t know how to alter Cass’s unique blood into a cure. Or if it can even be done.

Meanwhile, Cass struggles with the idea that she is possibly the savior of the world—a world she is not sure is worth saving.

From the Winchester manse to the steel city of Decadenn, there is something more chasing Cass than the House of Lords or the masked man who can walk in the Mist. Soon she must decide if she will use her blood to save mankind or let those who only care about themselves perish.

My Review:

I was excited to dive back into the Skyworld series with Blood Secrets after the cliffhanger of Secrets in the Mist! I couldn't wait to learn what happened with Cass and Theo.

This was an interesting read. While I've read almost all of Morgan's books, they all have the same "feel" in them. This one seemed different somehow. I can't quite put my finger on it, but it felt like it was missing something. I like that she does duologies like this one because we don't have to wait for a 3rd book for the conclusion.

What I liked about this book is that Cass struggles with knowing she can help everyone from becoming a Turned, but the way she and others have been treated over the centuries, she questions if she wants to even help. Luron is just as creepy in this story as he was in the first one. He tries to lure her to his way of thinking and in a way, it makes sense. Readers will be able to see the gray area between good and evil as these two struggle with the future.

Theo once again plays the hero, and one we can all count on! I think we can all agree that when someone is in power and they truly care about others, we want them to come out on top. Too bad others in power don't want the same thing!

I never realized how much of a fan I would be of the steampunk genre until I read Morgan's books! She's able to bring that world to life and have it all make sense. There are a number of tense scenes that had me quickly swiping my ebook pages!

If you're a fan of this genre, don't miss out on this whole series! Skyworld will come to life for you through Morgan's writing.

About the Author:

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of the Follower of the Word series, The Soul Chronicles, and The Ravenwood Saga. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and winner of both the INSPY and the Carol Award for best in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel. Visit her online at www.morganlbusse.com.

The Stories Of God (And Kiki) By Dave Connis & Amy Domingo

The Stories of God (and Kiki)

Story by Dave Connis

Art by Amy Domingo

Publisher: Waterbrook

Series: Made in His Image

ISBN: 9780593233573

In my quest to build my granddaughter's library with faith-filled books I was excited to be invited to join in the launch of this story! I was sent the hardcover for this review.

Summary:

From the creators of The Inventions of God (and Eva) comes a delightfully illustrated picture book that tells the story of would-be author and artist Kiki—and the God who created her to be a lot like Him.

Little Kiki is an aspiring author and illustrator who weaves daring tales about swashbuckling otters, all-knowing sea cucumbers, and nail-biting rescues from the clutches of gerblins (part gerbil, part goblin). But where do her imagination, creativity, and ideas come from?
 
Meet God, the author of all stories. He writes adventurous tales such as Esther Saves Her Family and Friends, Jesus and the Tomb that Couldn’t Hold Him, and the Story of Kiki.

Kiki loves to write but sometimes she forgets to include important pieces (like the time she forgot to give the ship’s cook a kitchen). God also loves to write, and He knows exactly what every story needs. They are both writing their biggest story of all, and the endings are bound to be incredible.
 
Children and parents alike will delight in the playful illustrations, imaginative side stories, and the gentle reminder that the image of God is alive in each of us. 

My Review:

The Stories of God (and Kiki) is a delightfully illustrated story with the comparison of how God writes stories and little Kiki writes her stories.

The illustrations have a LOT going on in them. Trust me when I say your little one will be going back to this story and seeing something new each time. It's fun to see Kiki's imagination on the page in the way a child might draw them. It's a great way for kids to relate to her. 

It starts off with an introduction to who God is and who Kiki is. From there it compares the stories each of them has written. The story shows how Kiki might forget something in her story, but God never forgets. The story also reminds children that God wants them to use the gifts He's given them. 

I love that it conveys that God wants children to enjoy life and that He has good things for them. Also, that there's so much to look forward to when He creates a new Earth. I think children will be encouraged to be more of who they are through this story and might even encourage others to figure out more about what they like to do. It's definitely a great conversation starter on many levels!

About the Author:

Dave Connis is a former librarian and the author of several YA novels, including The Temptation of Adam and Suggested Reading, recipient of a starred review from Kirkus Reviews. He lives in Georgia with his wife, three kids, and a dog that barks at nonexistent threats.

Love And The Dream Come True By Tammy L. Gray

Love and the Dream Come True

by Tammy L. Gray

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: A State of Grace

ISBN: 9780764235931

I have been looking forward to Cam's story for a couple of years now. I was so thrilled to be on the launch team and immediately dove into the story. I was sent the book for review.

Summary:

Their faith will face its toughest test yet.

Four years after getting the biggest break of his life, Cameron Lee's music career has taken a nosedive, leaving him two options: become a sellout or give up on his lifelong dream. He reluctantly returns home for his sister's wedding, hoping to avoid his past and find his love for music again.

Single mom Lexie Walters has suffered her fair share of tragedies and setbacks, but she has finally scraped together the money to achieve her dream of going into business with her cousin as an interior designer. When Lexie's life is at an all-time high, she runs into her teenage crush, Cameron Lee.

Lost in the emotional turmoil of failure, Cameron is immediately drawn to Lexie and her infectious smile and optimistic spirit. Moreover, he adores her mouthy, no-holds-barred daughter. But fantasies only last so long, and soon Lexie and Cameron must face the real world, the one fraught with heartbreak, disappointment, and questions that sometimes can only be answered by a leap of faith.

My Review:

I've need Love and the Dream Come True since book one! My heart just ached for Cameron. He just could NOT catch a break. First with January, the new gal on the scene, and then with Darcy, who he thought he had a future with.

When we're introduced to Lexie, I wonder how she's going to break through the wall Cam has around his heart. I have to admit, I wasn't a fan of her 13 year old daughter, Morgan, initially. In fact, I had very little patience with how she treated Lexie. As I read more and got to know what was going on in their lives, I began to understand their relationship more and why Morgan talked to her the way she did. I know, I'm being cryptic, but I want you to give her a chance once you start reading the story. In fact, some of my favorite scenes ended up including her.

And Cameron. His brokenness that he doesn't seem to see or understand was incredibly palpable. His anger towards so many and not wanting to be back in Midlothian... I felt it too, for him! The emotional scenes with Bryson, Darcy, and Mason had my heart racing! They were very powerful moments and watching him grow, seeing scales fall from his eyes (and his heart) just filled me up so much. Watching him heal and be restored was wonderful.

One of the things I liked most about this story was Lexie and her perpetual cheerfulness. Usually that would be an immediate turn-off for me, but she was so well written that it endeared her to me! We get to understand what's taken place over the course of her life to make her this way and it's bittersweet. The storyline between her and Cam was raw and beautiful. I kept wanting to turn the page to read as their relationship grew deeper and deeper.

I appreciated Cam's faith journey as well. Watching as he begins to unravel what he's pushed aside and how it's affected his entire life. What a story of seeing someone in a fog see clearly again!

I'm completely sad the story is over and I want Mason's story now!! I didn't know I wanted it until we got to know him better in this story. I can't tell you how sad I am that there aren't 4 books in the series with the last one ending on him.

About the Author:

Tammy L. Gray (www.tammylgray.com) lives in the Dallas area with her family, and they love all things Texas. Her nine modern and true-to-life contemporary romances include the 2017 RITA Award-winning My Hope Next Door. When not taxiing her three kids to various events, Tammy can be spotted crunching numbers as the financial administrator at her hometown church.

The One Who Got Away By Tara Grace Ericson

The One Who Got Away

by Tara Grace Ericson

Series: Second Chance Fire Station

Publisher: Silver Fountain Press

ISBN: 978-1949896398

I love being on Tara Grace Ericson's launch team! I've become a huge fan of Minden. Now we get to know some of the fellas at the fire department. She sent me the ebook ARC of the first book in this new series!

Summary:

The relationship is fake. But the sparks are real.
Can these best friends rekindle a second chance at first love? Or will they both end up burned?

Right here at the Minden Fire Department is exactly where I belong. But when I became Captain Storm, apparently it meant I needed a wife. Or at least, that’s what my mom’s friends think.

When Krystal comes back to town, I don’t know what to think. She was my best friend in high school. The truth is I loved her–as much as any eighteen-year-old kid could have. I think she loved me, too.

But she left, anyway.

I really do understand why. She had dreams to chase in Hollywood. How could I deny her that?

She’s here now, though. For eight weeks. And she’s taking over the fire department charity auction while her mom recovers from her fall, which means working with me.

I know we’re just friends. She’s going back to LA after the auction, but maybe her presence could get my mom’s friends off my back for a minute. We’ll just let people assume there is more to our friendship… No harm, no foul. I really could use the break from my personal matchmakers’ attention.

And I won’t say no to a little extra time with Krystal. I’m probably torturing myself. Friends is all we’ll ever be. Even a fake relationship can’t change the fact that she was The One Who Got Away.

My Review:

This was such a fun story to read. If you enjoy Hallmark movies you're going to enjoy this story!

First, I love small town stories, and I especially like going back to towns I've grown fond of. The little town of Minden has worked its way into my heart. I already know I'm going to look forward to getting to know the people connected with the fire station.

Bryce is the one who stayed behind. Minden is where he's rooted and you can feel his love for the town. He's also eligible and the mamas of the town know it. That's a pretty amusing thread in this story.

Too bad Krystal, the one who got away, comes back to town to take care of her mom after a fall. I could imagine her wanting to get out of the little town and pursue her dreams. I really liked her and her struggle of wanting to pursue her dreams while feeling the pull of the small town living.

The overall story was very sweet and was a quick read. Watching both Bryce and Krystal "pretend" that they're dating so their families won't set them up on dates is both helpful and not helpful because of the feelings they have for each other that seem to be watered with their time together. There's a plan that's bound to backfire.

Of course, I can't neglect the faith element that is throughout the story. It's subtle (as in not shoved in the reader's face), and flows nicely with the story and the characters. Both of the MCs have to look to the Lord for guidance and what he has for each of them.

I'm already champing at the bit for Jake and Monica's story! That will be an interesting one!

About the Author:

Tara Grace Ericson lives in Missouri with her husband and three sons. She studied engineering and worked as an engineer for many years before embracing her creative side to become a full-time author and mom. 

She loves cooking, crocheting, and reading books by the dozen. She also loves a good “happily ever after” with an engaging love story. 

That's why Tara focuses on writing clean contemporary romance, with an emphasis on Christian faith and living. She wants to encourage her readers with stories of men and women who live out their faith in tough situations.