Rosie's Wild Ride By Paige Murray

Rosie's Wild Ride

by Paige Murray

Illustrator: Kristen Humphrey

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 978-0310161585

It's entirely possible that I wanted to review this book because my heart has always been a horse lover! Do I want to pass that on to my granddaughters? I certainly do. I thought Rosie's Wild Ride was the perfect way to do just that... at least for a start. FrontGate media sent me the hardcover for my review.

You can get a FREE Activity Kit here: Freebies - Zonderkidz

Summary:

Meet Rosie, the big horse with even bigger dreams! In Rosie’s Wild Ride, Clydesdale horse Rosie and her cowgirl friend Oakley want to be rodeo stars, but what happens when the competition doesn’t quite go as planned? In this beautiful, inspiring picture book, readers will learn the importance of teamwork, chasing their dreams, and daring to ask, “What if I can?”

Rosie the Clydesdale is a BIG horse. She likes her life on the ranch and helping the farmer with his chores, but she also has a secret dream: she wants to be a rodeo star. She finally gets her chance when she teams up with a plucky cowgirl named Oakley, but the rodeo events aren’t designed for a big horse like Rosie. When a rogue bull disrupts the competition, though, Rosie and Oakley might be the only ones big and brave enough to stop him.

From debut children’s author Paige Murray comes a rodeo adventure complete with roping, riding, and racing—based on real animals from her own Texas ranch.

This picture book for ages 4–8:

• Is an inspiring, animal-filled story of resilience and self-confidence
• Features beautiful, engaging artwork and photos of the real-life Rosie and Oakley
• Includes fun horse and rodeo facts in the back matter
• Is written by Paige Murray, debut author and wife of nine-time World Champion Cowboy Ty Murray

My Review:

This is a wonderful story about not only a horse who has a dream, but a little girl as well. This is such a sweet story for young children to absorb in their younger years. A wonderful way to let them know they can be and do whatever they aspire to! They just need to put in the work. Now, granted, this book has them training for a few days, and we all know that it takes longer than that to gain skills needed for a hobby or a dream. That, of course, is something that can be share with your little one as you read the story.

The story is realistic in that, there will always be naysayers in the world. Those that either don't believe in you or your dream. Also, sometimes when you pursue your dreams, it may take a while to find where you fit or what your strength is. I can be easier to see the weaknesses, especially in the beginning. BUT, if we have someone to cheer us on and encourage us, like Rosie has with Oakley, it's possible to keep going and keep trying. Then, when we find where we fit in our passion, others will be cheering us on as well!

The illustrations are delightful! They're big and have beautiful detail. The grouchy cat cracked me up throughout the story. The font is large and I liked that they mixed it up numerous times with a western/rodeo type font. The author did a lovely job of conveying the purpose of the story! 

About the Author:

Paige Murray, a Southern belle from South Carolina, lives on a Texas cattle ranch with her daughter Oakley and husband, 9X World Champion Cowboy Ty Murray. A Clemson University Animal Science graduate, Paige began her career in modeling and TV reporting. She’s been NASCAR Miss Sprint Cup, appeared on CMT’s Sweet Home Alabama, FOX Sports, and hosted Southern Fried Skinnyfied. Passionate about fitness and cooking, Paige self-published a healthier cookbook and now writes children’s books inspired by ranch life.

About the Illustrator:

Kristen Humphrey grew up in a small town in southeastern Texas where she spent most of her days drawing and trail riding through pine forests with her beloved thoroughbred, Zeus. She has always shared her home with many different animals who have heavily influenced her artwork. Her love of animals helped influence her artwork in her latest picture book, Rosie’s Wild Ride. While studying Visualization at Texas A&M University, Kristen became interested in children’s book illustration and began using the skills and techniques she was learning to develop her own illustrative style. When she is not drawing, Kristen enjoys dog walking, hiking, and horseback riding in her spare time.

The Wonder Series By Catherine Claire Larson

Walking in Wonder: A Devotional Journal for Moms of Toddlers

by Catherine Claire Larson

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

ISBN: 9781400236152

My daughter is in every stage of the devotionals by Catherine Claire Larson. She has a three year old, a one year old, and is pregnant! All of them are relevant to her! I received all three books for review from FrontGate Media.

As a grandma, I'm so thankful I finally get to walk alongside her as she carries and raises my granddaughters! Let me tell you, the toddler years can be challenging. I'm in awe at how relaxed my daughter is as she parents the girls! I'm sure that Walking in Wonder will bless her immensely over the coming years. 

What I like about this devotional is that it walks you daily through each week of your toddler's life! Each day starts with a Scripture relevant to the reading. My favorite part of each devotion is how it relates the toddler's life stage to Jesus or to other people/events in the Bible. It also gives the parent prompts to consider how what they've read applies to their life and toddler's life. Each daily devotion is short enough for a parent to get the devotion in in the small amount of time they have before they need to go do something else!

Each week there's an overview of what the developmental stage could be for your toddler. Each month has a spiritual focus. For example, as the book starts at 12 months, that month is focused on Walking with God. Since your child has probably started learning how to walk, it's a great time to focus on "walking in God's ways." There are questions to be answered each week. Some are more sentimental like questions about your child's first birthday and holidays you've celebrated to more deep ones like writing out Scripture or what you've been learning from your child.

Grab your copy here: https://bit.ly/WalkingInWonderFGM

Summary:

Embrace the independent and energetic toddler year with this weekly devotional journal—a keepsake memory book created with your spiritual growth in mind as you watch your child grow day by day.

In this beautiful companion to Waiting in Wonder and Watching in Wonder, popular blogger Catherine Claire Larson encourages moms to receive God's peace and grace during the intense and joy-filled toddler year.

Designed to help you discover God's love in a new way as your little one discovers their world, Walking in Wonder includes:

• Three Scripture-based devotions each week centered on spiritual and parenting themes such as resting, feeding, and speaking
• Monthly "Memories and Milestones" sections to document your toddler's growth
• Thoughtful journaling prompts with space to record stories and prayers during this busy and delightful year

With its invitation to draw near to God as you navigate your child's second year of life, this is a unique and thoughtful gift for adoption parties, birthday celebrations, or simply for yourself and future generations.

Savor the transformation happening in your faith life as you enjoy the remarkable changes in your toddler.

Watching in Wonder: Growing in Faith During Your Baby's First Year

by Catherine Claire Larson

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

ISBN: 9781400236107

The first year of life for your new baby is an exciting time full of milestones, and you don't want to forget a single moment. This weekly devotional journal will inspire you to record stories and prayers for your newborn as you create a memory book that you (and they) will treasure for years to come. And you'll feel God's presence and comfort with devotions and Scripture selected especially for new moms.

In these pages, you will encounter a God who lovingly cares for you and your little one. Marvel anew at His goodness and the miracle of life that is growing day by day before your eyes.

This devotional includes:

• A weekly inspirational devotional theme on one of God's unchanging characteristics
• Monthly "Memories and Milestones" sections to help you document your baby’s growth
• Devotions that lead you closer to God
• Thoughtful journaling prompts with space to record stories and prayers

 With its invitation to draw near to God as you navigate your baby’s first year of life, Watching in Wonder is a sweet and thoughtful gift for friends' and loved ones' baby showers or as a gift for yourself at this memorable time of life.

Embrace the exhilarating, exhausting, and joy-filled first year of motherhood with this devotional journal, a gift you can one day give your son or daughter as a reminder of the love and prayers you shared throughout his or her first year in the world.

Waiting in Wonder: Growing in Faith While You're Expecting

by Catherine Claire Larson

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

ISBN: 9781400237579

Pregnancy is an exciting time, and you don't want to forget a single moment of this journey. Waiting in Wonder inspires you to record stories and prayers for your baby as you create a memory book you'll treasure for years to come. And you'll feel the comfort of God each day with devotions and Scripture selected especially for moms-to-be. 

This devotional includes:

• A helpful "Points for Prayer" section and a "Mommy's Memory Verse" for each week
• Weekly entries that trace the growth of your baby
• Daily devotions that lead you closer to God
• Helpful journaling prompts with space to record your emotions and prayers and love notes for your baby

With its invitation to draw near to God while you're expecting,Waiting in Wonder is a sweet and memorable gift for friends and loved ones for baby showers, or as a gift for yourself at this momentous time of life.

Embrace and prepare for the calling of motherhood with this devotional journal, a gift you can one day give your son or daughter as a reminder that you loved and prayed for him or her even before birth.

Check out this video to learn more about the Walking in Wonder devotional.

Investigation of a Journalist By Danielle Grandinetti + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Investigation of a Journalist by Danielle Grandinetti, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Investigation of a Journalist
Series: Harbored in Crow's Nest #6
Author: Danielle Grandinetti
Publisher: Hearth Spot Press
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Romance/Suspense

A second chance to set the record straight, and rekindle a lost love. 

Wisconsin, 1931—Buck Wilson refuses to accept failure as his reward for all he has sacrificed, but he’s kept secrets for too long to be believed. With his freedom on the line, there’s only one person he trusts to mine for the true story: the woman he left one month before their wedding. 

All investigative journalist Caroline Wagoneer wants is to shine a light on the truth wherever darkness threatens to obscure it. Which is the only reason she agrees to help her ex-fiance when he begs for her to go undercover in Crow’s Nest. What she discovers paints Buck in a whole new light. 

With lies and rumor hemming them in, Buck and Caroline realize their love may be doomed on the altar of altruism. 

Unless love can truly conquer all. 

Welcome to Crow’s Nest, where danger and romance meet at the water’s edge.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy Directly From the Author | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

Also Available

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Author Guest Post:

How do you decide what the different stories will be for Crow's Nest: what careers the

characters will have, the suspense/mystery thread, and what the relationship hurdles of the

main characters will be?

Investigation of a Journalist is the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series finale. It’s been an amazing journey! And I’m thrilled to be able to share Buck’s story with readers.

Buck first appeared in Book One, Confessions to a Stranger. He was … well, no one could decide if he was actually a bad guy or just not a good one. However, I knew he’d get a chance to tell his story, and the mystery thread wrapped through each of the previous five books hinted at the culmination in Book Six.

One of the hardest questions I faced for Buck’s story was who would star opposite him. Not Adaleigh, the heroine from Book One, thought they had a connection of some kind. What about Mindy, who we also met in Book One? She didn’t fit him and got her story in Book Five. So … who could be the right woman for Buck?

As the series came together, I realized the reason no one in Crow’s Nest worked for Buck was because that’s not where the heroine lived. He’d left her at the alter years ago but had never forgotten about her. Who was this woman? She needed to be a force to be reckoned with, someone who wouldn’t take any flack, and the person who could be the missing piece for the mystery thread that needed a conclusion.

Enter Investigative Journalist Caroline Wagoneer, Buck’s ex-fiancee.

I've included various medical conditions throughout the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series. It’s been fascinating to research how these conditions were diagnosed, viewed, and/or treated in the 1930s. It wasn’t part of my original plan to have one in each book, but it worked. Nor did I plan to have a medical condition in Buck’s story. However, one emerged, perfectly fitting the broken relationship between the hero and heroine.

A second chance romance means one or both characters suffer from a broken heart. There is such a thing called "Broken Heart Syndrome" or stress-induced cardiomyopathy. While it commonly affects widows after the death of their spouse, it can affect men, especially after extreme emotional and/or physical stress. This syndrome is often mistaken for a heart attack since the symptoms are similar. However, while it can be fatal, the cause is not due to heart damage or blocked arteries, and the heart can recover with rest.

So, which character experiences a literal and physical broken heart? And how does it affect the investigation and the romance? I hope you’ll read Buck and Caroline’s story to find out!

About the Author

Danielle Grandinetti is an award-winning inspirational romance author fueled by tea and books. As a FHLCW Reader’s Choice and Selah Award Finalist, she mixes romance, suspense, and history to bring her stories to life. Originally from the Chicagoland area, she now lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline with her husband and their two young sons.

Connect with Danielle at daniellegrandinetti.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each win a paperback copy of Confessions to a Stranger, a Crow's Nest tote bag, and a Crow's Nest Journal!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 19, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 26, 2024. 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!

First Christmas Personalized Story Book + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the First Christmas Personalized Story Book by StoryBug, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! HAD I known what my daughter was going to name her next baby, I would've gotten this adorable book personalized for her. Alas, they haven't chosen a name yet. I remember when I was really little having a book with my name on it, and I was in awe! I can't wait to give this book to my daughter so she can give it to her baby next year. Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy.

About the Book

Title: First Christmas Personalized Story Book
Publisher: Storybug
Release Date: August 1, 2024
Genre: Children's Christmas Gift Book

Immerse your little one in the joy of their first Christmas with the 'First Christmas Personalized Story Book,' where the magic of the holiday season comes alive through a story tailored just for them. Though they may not yet read, the sound of a loved one narrating a tale that features them will fill their world with wonder and make this personalized storybook a memorable part of their early Christmases. 

 PURCHASE LINKS: StoryBug

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About the Publisher

Story Bug is inspiring kids to read more through the use of fully personalized children's storybooks.

Visit storybug.com to follow them on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(5) winners will each receive a hardcover book from StoryBug!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 13, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 20, 2024. Winners 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!

When the Mountains Wept By Kendy Pearson + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for When the Mountains Wept by Kendy Pearson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! Lately, I've really been enjoying Civil War era books. Does this mean I'm in my "Civil War" era? I'm really too old to be talking like that. Ha! Anyhow, the cover of this book and the story synopsis really pulled me in. Be sure to check out the book excerpt below. I received the digital copy of this book for the tour.

About the Book

Title: When the Mountains Wept
Series: West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm #1
Author: Kendy Pearson
Publisher: Pear Blossom Books
Release Date: April 8, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

CAPTIVATING CIVIL WAR FICTION INSPIRED BY HISTORICAL EVENTS 

Amid talk of war, Augusta Dabney tends her younger siblings and dying father. But when hatred sparks tragedy, peace is but a shattered memory. Heartbroken and desperate, Augusta searches for a way to protect all she holds dear. 

Defying family and friends, Dr. James Hill declines a prestigious commission in the Confederate Army to join the Union cause as a Regimental Surgeon. When the Dabney farm becomes a crossroads of colliding forces, Major Hill commandeers their barn for a hospital. 

He is running from his legacy, seeking penance for his past. 

She is desperate to preserve hers, at any cost. 

As a wise, former slave nurtures James’s battered faith, cynicism crumbles, and James discovers grace and belonging with Augusta and her family unlike any he’s ever known, even as he must face the horrors of war and the evil it breeds. 

But when James comes face to face with his past, secrets unravel until deception ends in disaster, leaving Augusta with only one option. 

And it is unthinkable.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Books2Read | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books in This Series

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Book Excerpt

“What do you find so amusing, Major Hill?” Gus’s smile curled up on one side. Her fork held a bite of potato above her plate.

“I . . . uh. I am simply delighted to partake of such savory victuals, Miss Dabney. My sincere compliments to the cook,” he nodded to Melinda Jane, “or, cooks, as the case may be.”

He lifted his coffee cup in a toast. Melinda Jane beamed and dipped her chin. “Why, thank you, Major Hill. I believe I will graciously accept your compliment.”

Gus chuckled and pulled the potato morsel off her fork in slow motion. Her unblinking gaze met his. His breath caught. Heat spread across his chest. He’d missed his mouth and coffee was trickling through his beard onto his shirt.

Will covered her mouth, a snort erupting from her suppressed giggle. Bertie howled, slapping a hand to his forehead as Gus rushed to get a towel.

She handed it to James. “I hope you aren’t burned.” Her compassion eased his embarrassment until Melinda Jane found it necessary to add her two-cents-worth.

“Why, I’d be surprised if he felt a thing, as I reckon his mind was elsewhere.”

Snickers fluttered around the table. His face burned as Zander joined in and the amusement climbed to lofty heights at his expense. He stood, swiping at the brown stain on his shirt before tossing the towel onto his chair. A meal with the Dabneys was its own kind of battlefield. The only casualty being his dignity.

About the Author

Kendy Pearson is a veteran high school teacher and an accomplished musician. She is also a worship leader, Bluegrass fiddler, and Civil War reenactment enthusiast. When she discovers a pocket of American history omitted from the schoolbooks, she enjoys digging in and turning that pocket inside out. Her novels lead fictitious characters through real historical events and settings; engaging with period personalities—and she always includes a romantic thread to warm the heart. Every story is a journey through tragedy, secrets, regrets, and God's undeniable grace. Kendy is an eight-time award-winning author and enjoys public speaking and teaching writing workshops. She also relishes ice cream, snowy days, fireplaces, and maple trees. Kendy is the mother of four grown children and lives with her sweet hubby and two amusing miniature dachshunds.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive signed copies of When the Mountains Wept and When Heaven Thunders, a character named after you in book 3, In Tempest Winds, and a signed copy of that book once it releases!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 11, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 18, 2024. Winners 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!

Healing The Cowboy By Mandi Blake

Healing the Cowboy

by Mandi Blake

Publisher: Independent

Series: Christmas at Redemption Ridge

ISBN: 978-1953372550

If you haven't read any of the stories that are part of Christmas at Redemption Ridge, you're missing out. Mandi's newest contribution to the series is Healing the Cowboy. I grabbed her book on Kindle Unlimited.

Summary:

Will her dedication to tending her friend’s injury allow him to get close enough to heal her wounded heart?

Nora St. James returns to Redemption Ridge to find her family ranch falling apart. Her dad’s gambling addiction is out of hand, and they’re on the verge of losing everything.

Clint Taylor knows exactly what he wants, and it’s the one woman who is immune to his charms–his best friend, Nora. She’s determined and independent, and while he loves those things about her, they also help her keep him at arms’ length.

Nora has too many problems to worry about romance, but her flirty best friend is pulling out all the stops. If he keeps pursuing her, she might not be able to resist much longer.

When an injury lands Clint in a cast and Nora’s ranch isn’t safe anymore, she comes to Taylor Ranch to care for him and help keep things going until he heals. The Christmas season has Nora opening her heart, but if she lets her guard down, she might lose her best friend, her job, and her home.

Return to Redemption Ridge, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters in this Christian Christmas Romance.

Healing the Cowboy is book 8 in the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series, but each of the books can be read on their own.

My Review:

Healing the Cowboy was such a heartwarming story! I love visiting Redemption Ridge and getting to know more of its residents.

This time we're getting to know Nora who has to figure out her life when her father gambles away their lives. One thing I love about Redemption Ridge is how the community all comes together. Clint, her lifelong friend, wants more than that.

I liked getting to know Nora because she's very independent, determined, and yet has a soft heart. She works hard and is doing her best to try to figure out what her future will look like without the ranch she's lived on her whole life. Clint, of course, is her knight in shining armor allowing her and her father to live at his place. He and his family show compassion for Nora's father and is such a wonderful example of walking alongside someone with an addiction.

There are some nail biting moments in the story and moments that are unexpected. There's a lot packed into this story. It is incredibly sweet and you can't help but root for Nora and Clint!

I truly appreciate when the author adds in faith other stories because it adds a wonderful level to the story!

*I received the ebook for review. This is my personal opinion.

About the Author:

Mandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
You can sign up for her newsletter and get the free novella, South of Skye, and the free full-length book, A Thousand Words.

Across The Ages By Gabrielle Meyer

Across the Ages

by Gabrielle Meyer

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Timeless

ISBN: 9780764244209

This is seriously one of my top 5 favorite series! Timeless has been amazing with each book, and each book just continues to blow me away. The author sent me her book for being on her launch team.

Summary:

Caroline holds a deep secret. Living in 1727 and 1927 simultaneously, each night she goes to sleep in one life and wakes up in the other. In search of answers to her unique existence, Caroline stumbles upon a letter from her mother hinting at her own experiences as a time-crosser, sending Caroline on a daring quest to uncover the truth. In 1727, Caroline disguises herself as a cabin boy and joins a ship sailing for the Bahamas, her mother's last known location, where she crosses paths with a ruthless but handsome pirate and is caught in a web of secrets, deception, and unexpected alliances.

In 1927 St. Paul, Minnesota, Caroline grapples with her other life as the daughter of a renowned preacher. Her two older brothers have fallen prey to the corruption rampant during Prohibition, and Caroline struggles to keep their involvement hidden to save her father's career. As her search for answers about her time-crossing leads her to the dangerous yet exciting world of speakeasies, Caroline enlists the help of a childhood friend who is now a police officer. But with her family's future at risk and their loyalties tested, Caroline faces a life-altering decision that could reshape her destiny.

My Review:

Once again, the author has blown me away with her time-crossing story, Across the Ages! The detail she takes in each timeline and keeping all of the history and pieces seamless as well as connected is mind boggling!

We meet Caroline, who is an absolutely wonderful characters. There's no guile in her, and her innocence is endearing. More than that though, in both timeliness she's determined. Unlike the other stories, she has no one guiding her in her time-crossing. She doesn't know the "rules" that pertain to it.

Getting to know her in 1727 give us a connecting to book three in the series and I truly adored it. 1927 also gives us a connection to book three! Have I mentioned how much I LOVE this story?!

In 1727 we get to know Marcus as well. He's the quartermaster to a pirate captain who is being hunted. As Carl (aka Caroline) gets to know Marcus, there's a growing affection... except she's pretending to be a boy. It's hard to imagine someone being in your face and not realizing they're not who they're portraying themselves to be!

1927 holds a lot of heartache for Caroline and her family. Her father is a well-known pastor from Minnesota, and unfortunately, his sons have chosen to live lives that are far from the Lord. The crazy twist that comes from this timeline is just so sad. Caroline perseveres to find answers though, and I think that makes her one of my favorites! Thank goodness she has Lewis with her through her journey to learn the truth.

Faith is such an important piece in both timelines. The author does a magnificent job of showing readers that EVERYONE is deserving of the redemption and love of Christ. That no one is ever too far gone that if they turn to the Savior He won't answer, because He will!

Of course, I was trying, in vain, to guess which timeline Caroline was going to choose. I'm always "leery" of authors making things too obvious. Ha! I changed my mind numerous times throughout the story just because of the ideas I kept coming up with as I read.

I'll be honest and say I'll never tire of this series. The author is SO creative and the writing is phenomenal. It's an adventure each time I crack her books open. How she continues to come up with unique ideas is beyond me, but she is a gifted writer!

About the Author:

Gabrielle Meyer is an ECPA bestselling author. She has worked for state and local historical societies and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides along the banks of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota with her husband and four children. By day, she's a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and nonfiction filled with hope. Find her online at GabrielleMeyer.com.

A Path To Healing + Interview + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Path to Healing by Lisa M. James, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I feel like Lisa is one of those author more readers should know about and be talking about. After I read her first book A Path to Forgiveness, she had me hook, line, and sinker! I received the book for my tour with JustRead and I can't wait to read this latest installment to the series.

About the Book

Title: A Path to Healing
Series: The Prodigal Woman Series #3
Author: Lisa James
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: November 1, 2024
Genre: Christian Fantasy/Romance

Scarred. Blemished. Unwanted. These were all words that could describe Bethany. Since an accident disfigured the right side of her face, severing the betrothal to the man she loved, Bethany knew that no one would ever find her beautiful. When her mother insists she marries the only man willing to take her as a wife, Bethany begrudgingly agrees. Yet, the more she discovers about her new husband, the more she realizes that some scars are hidden deep within. 

After becoming a champion gladiator to purchase his mother’s freedom, Ezra wished to live a quiet life as a shepherd. When he hires a troubled woman with a veiled face to assist him with his flock, he’s surprised to find himself drawn to discover the woman beneath the mask. After a hasty marriage, Ezra vows to do everything he must to spare his wife from harm. But will her thirst for revenge against the dark forces that plague their homeland and his desperate need to protect his family tear them apart? 

Discover the story of a blemished woman in A Path to Healing. 

This Christian Fantasy novel can be read as a stand-alone novel or as part of The Prodigal Woman Series.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books in This Series

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Author Interview

1. What is the significance of the peacock feather on each of the covers? Did you design the covers?

Peacocks are a big part of my author branding as a whole and I decided to incorporate them into the covers of The Prodigal Woman series. Peacocks symbolize beauty and rebirth and I love that imagery, especially for this series where three women are on paths for second chances and a shot at redemption. I work with a wonderful cover designer where I choose the images and the models and give her an idea of what I would like for the cover. Then she makes it a reality. 

2. What has the path of independent publishing looked like for you?

It’s definitely been a learning process! When you independently publish you have to be your own CEO. Early on I would just write the books and not go through big efforts on professionally editing or marketing. Obviously that didn’t work. Within recent years, after I write the story I hire contractors to beta read, edit, design my covers, and I get in touch with a lot of organizations (like JustRead Tours!) that will promote my books and get them in the hands of readers! I still have a lot to learn and there are many avenues I would like to explore to promote and publish my books that I just haven’t had time to do yet, but I’m excited to try some new things, especially when it comes to marketing. It’s a lot of work, but its so rewarding when I receive a positive response for my work, knowing that I DID THAT. My hard work paid off. 

3. How do you decide what topic you'll use in your story and then create it as fantasy? What does that process look like?

This is a very artsy, pie in the sky, thing to say but honestly the stories just come to me. Sometimes I will be watching a tv show or movie or reading a book, and a story idea pops in my head. Many times just scenes and characters come to me and I write it down before I even have a plot together. Once I get a general idea of a storyline, then I start thinking about how to create it in a fantasy world. 

4. What is the message you want women to take away from your stories?

Your past mistakes are not your whole story. Your scars are not your whole story. You have not done anything that deems you beyond forgiveness, acceptance, and healing. We serve a God who sees us in our brokenness and can lovingly put us back together piece by piece. We serve a true and faithful Redeemer, but we need to be willing to go to him and confess our hurts, mistakes, and failures.

5. What do you have planned after this series? Will you be staying with this genre?

I am going back to my clean fantasy romance roots that are less direct on the Christian message but always have a hint of it peeking out. Next year I will actually be publishing a second edition of my first series, The Fifth Kingdom, with new scenes and edits. I”m excited to get that into the hands of readers. 

6. If you could go back to Biblical times and spend the day with one woman, who would you choose?

My heart tells me Rahab. I would want to hear her faith journey from her own words. Her openness to accept the one true God amidst harrowing circumstances is incredible. I would want to bear witness to her great faith.

7. Where do you find inspiration and ideas for your genre when it's a world you're creating in your mind?

Believe it or not, I'm very influenced by Historical Fiction, specifically Biblical Fiction and even my stories that are not promoted as Christian Fantasy tend to have Christian elements that my readers pick up on. I am not a historian so I knew I would not be successful writing in the historical fiction genre. I just love to make things up and add a little magic, which is why I pursued fantasy. My fantasy worlds have more of a historical feel vs a futuristic feel because of my historical fiction influence and much of my audience are primarily historical romance readers because they feel my worlds have similar elements to “the past.” With a little bit of magic, of course!

About the Author

Lisa M. James is an independent author, marketer, and former Sunday School teacher. She loves writing fantasy novels with diverse female leads for both young adult and adult audiences. Her novels have hit the Amazon Best Sellers list for numerous Fantasy categories, including Sword and Sorcery Fantasy, Christian Fantasy, and Religious Romance. Her fictional writing is inspired by Historical Fiction, Fantasy genres, and Christian novels.

Connect with Lisa by visiting lisamjames.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 A Path to Healing and an embroidered backpack purse!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 6, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 13, 2024. Winners 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.

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

A Guardian Till Christmas By Danielle Thorne + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Guardian Till Christmas by Danielle Thorne, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! We are definitely in sweater weather here in Minnesota! The leaves are nearly all changed and falling off of trees and people are already starting to decorate for Christmas! I love the cover of this book, and the first line in the book description makes me think I'll relate well to Kylee!

About the Book

Title: A Guardian Till Christmas
Author: Danielle Thorne
Publisher: Love Inspired
Release Date: October 22, 2024
Genre: Inspirational Romance

She’s always in charge… 

Until two little hearts take over this holiday season… 

After the loss of her sister, Kylee Spokes plans to take custody of her orphaned niece and nephew and return to the big city by Christmas. Except corralling four-year-old twins is much harder than the businesswoman expects. And small-town paramedic Evan Hollister refuses to abandon his godchildren to someone who has no experience with kids—and can’t even boil water! Now these opposites must find a way to temporarily co-parent together. As grudging respect turns into something more, can they find a permanent solution…that lasts past the holidays?  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

 

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Book Excerpt

Kylee didn’t miss the disappearance of Evan’s smile when he looked away. “It’s just a Nativity,” she said as she put the bread on the counter. “I can find one for them to see in New York.”

He leaned against the kitchen wall with his hands in his pockets. “The Nativity is our tradition. Chip and I worked on the sets together and included the kids when they came along. When Henry was an infant, they used him as a real baby Jesus.”

“That’s so sweet,” Kylee said. Then she took a deep breath. “I think it’s best that we leave before Christmas. I know moving in the middle of a holiday will be distracting, but I think it’ll keep their mind off of the fact that their parents aren’t here.”

“Would it be such a bad thing, for them to remember?” Evan looked quizzical.

Trying not to look at his firm arms folded across his chest, she turned to dig around in the sink for a dish to rinse. “I don’t want them to be sad.”

Evan remained silent as if he disagreed, or maybe he’d surrendered to the idea.

Kylee dropped her hands to her sides. “Evan, you do not have to do penance by seeing these kids every day and worrying about every little thing.”

“They’ve been a part of my life since they were born. It’s hard to think about life without them,” he admitted.

“You can call them whenever you like. Maybe read to them every night via video chat,” Kylee suggested.

His face lit up. “That’s a great idea!” He surprised her by throwing his arms around her waist and lifting her into the air. Then as if realizing what he’d done, he froze, and she slid down until her feet touched the floor, and they stood face-to-face.

The feeling of his heart beating against hers turned her legs into jelly. She couldn’t think, she couldn’t make herself pull away. It was breathtaking, electric and peaceful all at the same time.

Evan moved first, and Kylee broke contact, unable to look him in the eye, swiveling her attention back to the pots and pans in the sink. She cleared her throat. “Yes, that’s fine, I mean, it would comfort them and help them get adjusted to the change.”

“Right,” he agreed, his soft tone daring her to look at him and address what just occurred.

“Uncle Evan! Are you here yet?” Annabelle called from down the hall.

Evan remained still. Kylee could feel his gaze on her and wondered what he was thinking. She kept her eyes on the dishes in the sink.

“Guess I’ll go read to the kids now,” he said. “Thanks for letting me take them to practice tomorrow.”

“Sure.”

“You can come along if you want.”

She finally turned and met his stare. “No, thanks. I still have a lot of packing to do. And video meetings for work.”

“Suit yourself.”

He walked away, and Kylee’s eyes burned with unshed tears. She hated that Evan would miss Christmas with the twins. She hated that she would miss him, too. She took a deep breath and exhaled. But she had to make memories with her sister’s children, who were now her responsibility.

About the Author

Danielle Thorne writes happily-ever-afters set in the South for Harlequin Love Inspired. A graduate of BYU-Idaho, she also writes stories about Regency ladies, pirates, and not-so-distressed damsels from her home south of Atlanta. Free time is filled with documentaries, too much yard work, and not enough travel. When not writing wholesome romances, Danielle hangs out with friends or chases cats. She enjoys the outdoors and serving in her church and community. Danielle's been married to the same fellow for thirty years, has four sons, two daughters-in-law, twin grandbabies, and she loves them more than life.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive an autographed paperback of A Guardian Till Christmas and a $20 Chickfila gift card!

(1) winner will receive an ebook of A Guardian Till Christmas!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 30, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 6, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for print copy & gift card. Ebook giveaway is open to US and international winners. 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!