Saturday, November 28, 2020

Review of Watercolors by Lorna Seilstad on Tour with Just Read Tours

 




Book Title: Watercolors

Author: Lorna Seilstad

The Mosaic Collection

Historical Christian Fiction

Book Description

Strong-willed watercolor artist Amelia York thought she could paint the scenes of her own life – that is until she finds herself responsible for getting her brother, a paralyzed war veteran, home to Iowa and must deal with the moody Army captain God has painted into her life.

Captain Braedon McCrae is ruled by honor and a strong sense of duty. Still, the deaths of two people close to him have left him angry at God and vowing to never love again.

After a steamboat incident forces Amelia and Braedon to marry, Amelia must decide if she will accept Braedon’s offer of an annulment or keep the sacred vows she made before God.

The more Amelia attempts to control her future, the more she muddies the picture, like watercolors in the hand of a child. Can she learn to love, respect, and trust a man she barely knows?


MY REVIEW

Watercolors is set at the end of the Civil War. Amelia York, with her brother off to war, decides to make her contribution to the war effort by working as a nurse at a field hospital. With her brother, John a prisoner at Cahaba prisoner of war camp and then taken aboard the steamer, Sultana to be sent home. The steamer explodes and he is hurt and paralyzed. He is rescued by Braedon McCrae and his father, a doctor, and is taken to their home. Amelia goes there to help care for him.

The story is fraught with hardship, relationship not what they appear to be, and men that will resort to anything to reach their end goal. It's inspirational and inspiring, heartwrenching at times, filled with compassion and love, and surprising twists and turns. This book has everything.

The author's descriptions of the surrounding areas in the story and the well-developed characters brought the story to life. At times I laughed, cried, and rejoiced at God's ability to turn a bad situation into something amazing.

I received a copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.




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Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Grand Finale Blitz- Sprinkled with Sabotage by Allison Pearl on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What do you hope readers will take with them after they’ve read it?

I hope this story will make you think and yet still be an escape. Because, tbh, 2020 just sucks. And we all know it. We all need a bit of a break. A blip in the constant chaos. And I want to help my readers find that. And because my faith is the foundation of my character, it’s always between the lines and I hope it can be a comfort to the readers as well. Like it is to me.

Kimber Li - Excerpt

I trust him with my life. Just not with my heart.

Elizabeth Bennet remembered using those words to describe her relationship with Koby Knightly—if one could even call it that. But was that trust enough of a justification to dial her ex-boyfriend’s number? She looked back over her shoulder at the dark, snow- lined sidewalk. Seconds prior, she’d been certain she heard feet chasing her, but now, there was nothing. Only the sound of her high heels clicking on the uneven concrete as she hurried home from dinner. Why hadn’t she called a cab? Or even hopped on a bus?

Books & Benches - Interview

Does writing energize or exhaust you?

It does both. And somehow it does it at the same time. There are times during a first draft, when everything is so new, that I’ll sit down and start typing and the next time I look up hours have passed. I feel like I could write forever and what’s more is that I want to. I want to push through until I can write ‘The End.’ But on the second through fifteenth drafts—not an exaggeration—it feels like I’m constantly running up hill. My body is tired. My brain is telling me to stop. I need a break. But I know that when I reach the top, I’ll be in love again and ready to do it all over.

Remembrancy - Excerpt

“Lizzy!”

She gasped and her whole body tensed. “Koby? What are you doing here?”

He stood in front of the glass doors to her apartment building. After pulling his hands out of the pockets of a pair of faded jeans, he started toward her, his eyes wide and his jaw hanging open. “What happened to you?”


"I really enjoyed reading Sprinkled with Sabotage by Allison Pearl. . . . If you are a fan of this genre, I really think that you will enjoy Sprinkled with Sabotage as much as I did. Not only will you be entertained, but you will also be uplifted. I definitely recommend this book to fans of Christian romantic suspense novels."

Heidi Reads... - Guest Post

Why I Love Jane.

“What are men to rocks and mountains?” Unless those men happen to be the likes of Misters Darcy and Knightley. I’m all for a good view, but I prefer a swoon and I think Jane Austen did too. If you’ve read any of the Love and Danger in St. Claire series, you’ll have seen more than one nod to the romance master herself. . . .


"Sprinkled with Sabotage keeps you on the edge of your reading chair – both from the suspense and from the romance. Layered characters and a well-plotted mystery combine with the cozy small town vibes (with a little of big city bustle thrown in) to deliver a read that hits the spot. Perfect to curl up on a chilly fall or winter day!"


When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

At first, I thought I wanted to be an actor. I was a child movie snob who loved the characters and adventures of film. Whatever magic was happening on the screen in front of me was something I wanted to create. I wanted to play every hero and villain. To walk out every storyline to its finish. But when I got old enough to realize that Luke Skywalker was in a desert on planet earth rather than a galaxy far way, I knew I didn’t want to be a part of the story. I wanted to be the author of it.

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"This was a great escape novel for me. My interest and imagination were captured from the first page. . . . I loved the blend between the genres. There was just enough romance and suspense to keep me turning the pages. This is the third book in a series but can be read as a stand-alone. I look forward to reading the first two books at a later date."


Was that static? The message sounded odd. After grabbing the red pouch from behind some dish detergent, Koby turned toward Lizzy and rested a hand on the counter. Another moment of the strange noise made it clearer. Not static. It was someone breathing. The exhales were loud and ominous. The message wasn’t a pocket dial filled with muffled background noise. Someone had left that message on purpose.

The breathing lasted another moment. “I know who you are. I know what you’ve done,” a distorted voice said.

BookHounds - Interview

What is on your nightstand?

Too many things, I promise you. I often joke that I need a night-desk instead of a nightstand. And that is just for the books. Like when I go to the grocery store hungry, my reading eyes are always way bigger than my stomach. There’s always a cornucopia of genres stacked by my alarm clock, lamp, and cup of pens and crochet needles. Right now, there’s a book about home-buying, Dostoevsky’s The Idiot and a Russian-English dictionary, my bible, the new Tana French, and my Kindle stocked with selections from Prime Reading.

Hallie Reads - Excerpt

His eyelids fell closed as he winced. Great. Now, she’d hurt his feelings. She was already bleeding, and now, she’d managed to wound him, too. “Koby...”

He held up a hand. “Don’t. It’s fine.”

I'm Into Books - Guest Post

Fav Fives: Romantic Suspense Movies:

Maybe I’m just too old, but I feel like the golden age of action-packed romance film has passed us by. It’s been decades since a movie’s come close to a spot on this list. But I’m hopeful that 2021 will bring with it some challenges to these Top Five Romantic Suspense Movies. #SPOILERALERT . . .


“But now what?” Her voice was soft, but he sensed an urgency in the tone. “Why did you stay?”

His heart pounded in his ears. If he could only kiss her one last time. “I think I stayed because a part of me always thought you’d come back, and if I was gone... i-if you changed your mind about us and came back... I didn’t want to miss my chance.”

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review & Guest Post

"Sprinkled With Sabotage is a great mystery with sweet romance and awesome faith and friendships. The mystery keeps you guessing the who, when and where and what's next. The characters are all well-developed . . . I highly recommend this story to everyone. There is something for every reader in this story."

Top Five Things to Know if You’re New to Love and Danger in St. Claire

1. Because dessert.
Like all small Pennsylvania towns, St. Claire never runs out of sugar. Stop at Apple’s Fritters or Poppy’s Pies and Tarts for the treat of your choice. . . .

Read Review Rejoice - Guest Post

Because sometimes, you just need a doughnut. Why you should read romantic suspense?

Maybe the better question would be why not read Romantic Suspense? Sure, you can read heavy war novels, self-helps, memoirs, historical non-fiction, tear-jerkers, and tragedies. And you should… on occasion. But don’t you sometimes want your heart to race for something other than, COVID, bills, politics, work, drama, and your family stress? . . .


“I just figured the paranoia was all in my head and that there had to be a logical reason for the other stuff. I mean, I have been a little off since everything happened in the sheriff’s department down home. What if I overreacted?”

Koby shook his head as he grabbed the towel off the counter and flicked the faucet handle to let the water cascade over the cloth. “You are a lot of things, sweetheart. Easily spooked ain’t one of them.”

Wishful Endings - Guest Post

Who's who? Love and Danger in St. Claire

Sprinkled with Sabotage may be part of a series, but readers can start anywhere. But while you may not need to rush out and get books 1 and 2, I think it will be fun to give you a breakdown of just who you will be meeting in the small Pennsylvania town of St. Claire. . . .


"This was a fast paced suspense sprinkled with not only sabotage but romance. I liked that I wasn’t able to guess who was after Lizzy. . . . The suspense was fast and the romance was sweet."


Her dad rose from his worn green leather armchair in front of the fireplace. “Lizzy Lu.”

How many evenings had she spent on the rug at the foot of that chair, playing with the dogs or reading a book so she could be just like him? She tossed Koby’s keys onto the thin table against the wall, and then, he pulled her into his arms.

“Hi, Daddy.” Pressing her head into his neck, she breathed in the familiar smell of sawdust and leather and then let him go. “You didn’t have to wait up.”

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Sprinkled with Sabotage
(Love and Danger in St. Claire #3)
By Allison Pearl
Christian Romantic Suspense
Paperback & ebook, 164 Pages
October 27, 2020 by Anaiah Press

Lizzy Bennet loves life as a lawyer in the city. And not just because of the miles it puts between her and her ex. However, when she’s attacked on the street just hours after learning her identity was stolen, she tries to call home for help and ends up with the last person she expects: the very same high school boyfriend who broke her heart. He says he’s there to help, but she’s not so sure, and now, all the endless questions and regrets are clouding her judgment and preventing her from seeing the dangerous saboteur closing in.

Small-town auto mechanic, Koby Knightly, is looking forward to seeing a car show in the city. But when an unexpected call from his old girlfriend disconnects suddenly, he rushes to her aid. Throwing his plans out the window, Koby makes it his mission to protect her and discover the identity of the person trying to frame her. Will he also be able to figure out what went wrong between them back in high school or will a killer get to her first?

(Affiliate link included.)

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author


Allison Pearl is a small-town girl who’s lived just about everywhere. She loves books, tea, chocolate, and watching old movies with her husband, black lab, and orange tabby. To keep in touch and get updates on new releases follow her Facebook page ‘Books by Pearl’ at www.facebook.com/allisonnicolepearl/ or follow her on Twitter at @AllisonPearl5 and Instagram at @allisonnicolepearl.


Tour Giveaway


1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

Ends November 29, 2020

Grab Our Button!

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Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Spotlight: Harmful Haven by Emily Yager

 

 


About the Book

 


Book: Harmful Haven

Author: Emily Yager

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: August 5, 2020

 

Everyone has secrets…Yet not everyone has lives depending on them being kept.

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Inessa Jo Ellingson, a trained
nurse, uses her home as a secret safe haven for abuse victims. When
unusual incidents start to turn into threats, Inessa works diligently
to protect her secret and the safety of those who depend on her.

Retired Marine Sergeant, Torian von Arx, hired to find a missing
person meets the stubborn Inessa who seems determined to stall his
mission. As trouble brews, he feels compelled to protect her against
the secret that threatens to destroy them both.

Will they be able to trust each other in time to save the others?

 

 

About the Author


Emily Yager Inspirational Romance and Inspirational Romantic Suspense
novels set among the lakes, rivers, and north woods of Minnesota.

When Emily is not writing, she is collecting plants, listening to
music, searching for a new history book to explore, or dealing with
the dramas of a bi-polar prima donna canine and writing puppy
sidekick, Xian. She lives on the family farm in northwestern Minnesota.

 

More from Emily



As with all my stories. I love to integrate as much of my characters heritage as possible within the story. The main character in Harmful Haven – Inessa Jo Ellingson, and her family are of Russian descent. A bit of Russian traditions are woven in throughout the story.

Of all the little traditions that there are. One in particular makes an appearance more than anything else. A source of conversation and comfort.  More often complaints from some to the other characters.

“What did you make?” Nikolai asked. “Something chocolate?”

“No, Honey mousse.”

“Ugh, again.” Her brother groaned. “Two nights in a row. Honestly. Why can’t you enjoy normal desserts like brownies and ice cream?”

Honey Mousse. A traditional Russian dessert. Its sickly sweet. Those in my family who have a major sweet tooth, even found it too sweet for their own taste. This old dessert is definitely an acquired taste.

Go ahead and whip yourself up a batch. Sample it right along with Torian von Arx as he tries it for the first time in the story.

Enjoy it with a hot cup of Bengal Spice Tea (Or as it is known in Harmful Haven – Tiger Tea).



                               Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 11

Pause for Tales, November 11

Sara Jane Jacobs, November 12

Artistic Nobody, November 13 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 14

deb’s Book Review, November 15

Splashes of Joy, November 15

Quiet Quilter, November 16

Betti Mace, November 17

Ashley’s Bookshelf, November 18

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 20

Inklings and notions, November 21

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 22

Texas Book-aholic, November 23

For Him and My Family, November 24

Bizwings Blog, November 24


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Saturday, November 21, 2020

Grand Finale Blitz: Cupcakes & Crumbs by Melissa McClone on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What do you hope readers will take with them after they’ve read it?

I hope readers will feel like they made new friends they want to know them better, want to eat a cupcake, and plan a visit to Berry Lake, Washington.



"This was a delightfully fast paced beginning to an exciting new series . . . The [writing] is exceptional, the [characters] feel real and "draws" the reader into the group. . . . Surely this series will become a favorite and it is "clean"!"


"Cupcakes & Crumbs by Melissa McClone is a new book and a series that is a wonderful read for fans of women’s friendship and a clean romance. These girls are all about being friends and helping each other out instead of dragging them down. Ms. McClone is a brilliant author, and I like her writing style as well. . . I am recommending it."

Hallie Reads - Review

"Melissa McClone’s Cupcakes & Crumbs is a deliciously sweet story of friendship. While I did have a hard time with all the characters at the beginning, I did settle into the story well and enjoyed their various perspectives and circumstances. I look forward to reading more of McClone’s Berry Lake Cupcake Posse series."


As Top 40 hits from the seventies and eighties—Elise’s favorite music—drifted in from the front of the shop, Missy filled baking cups with vanilla batter. The scent tickled her nose. The grumbling of her stomach reminded her she’d skipped her break and lunch. And her tastebuds whispered mine at the same time she imagined Elise shouting, Why eat plain vanilla when there are more flavorful combinations?

Missy laughed. Even though plain vanilla cupcakes with vanilla icing were foundations for other flavors, Elise hadn’t sold them except for special orders. Missy, however, enjoyed vanilla cupcakes. Dare she say they were her favorite? The simplicity appealed to her in a way the more creative fillings and toppings didn’t.


"I've really enjoyed this book, I was entranced from the beginning and I was really invested in the lives of this diverse group of friends that try to support each other even if many years has passed from last time they have seen each other.

Melissa McClone did an excellent job of depicting these characters and [tying] their lives to one [another], her writing was easy to read and that ending made me so curious I can't wait to get next book in this series."


As Juliet’s upper teeth sunk into her lower lip, she stopped herself. That would ruin her lipstick, and if Ezra happened to arrive home, he would notice.

She glanced at the messages again. If she didn’t plan on going, she should let Nell know.

I want to go.

The thought resonated through Juliet. She didn’t ask for much these days—other than a kind word from her husband and time with her grandmother—but she wanted tonight with her former coworkers and friends.


Some claimed there were no stupid questions, but Bria disagreed. How did people think she was doing when her heart was in pieces, as if sliced and diced by a skilled teppanyaki chef?

Forget replying with anything other than an “I’m fine” or “I’m okay” or “I’m doing better.” No one wanted to hear the truth about how angry she was at cancer, at the doctors, and at her aunt. Especially Aunt Elise for stopping her treatments, throwing herself an over-the-top goodbye party, and leaving this world on her terms.

So typical.


"Cupcakes and Crumbs is a book full of friendships with a little mystery throw-in. I loved Bria and how she wants to save her aunt’s bakery shop. . . . I recommend reading the book to see what happens to all the characters."


"This is a new to me author and I loved that I was pulled into the world of these five women and their home town of Berry Lake. . . . The push and pull of all the relationships within this town were enough to make me keep turning the pages to see what would happen . . ."


"There’s just something about the combination of cupcakes and friendship that bring a warm, comforting feeling to a book. And such a feeling was stirred when I picked up my copy of Cupcakes and Crumbs by Melissa McClone. . . . I appreciated the fact that romance was not the central plot point, but friendship was. There aren’t enough books out there in the adult genre that focus solely on friendship and not on romance, so I loved that small touch. . . . Overall, Cupcakes and Crumbs is a beautiful balance between light and heavy, charming and serious, and friendship and romance."


"These characters have so much depth. I appreciate how diverse the author made them. . . . Fair warning: Cupcakes & Crumbs isn’t a stand-alone story. It’s just the beginning, and it’ll leave you hanging on lots of things! However, you just have to read it. I had tears in my eyes more than once while I was reading. It’s not all sunshine and roses but neither is “real” life. . . . I can’t recommend Cupcakes & Crumbs enough! Anyone who loves women’s fiction with lots of real life issues, a little romance, and a lot of heartwarming moments will love this book."

Splashes of Joy - Review

"I did love the friendship coming back to life as the ladies worked together to save this special bakery Bria’s aunt loved so well. The characters were well created, and interesting to say the least. As the story unfolds, the characters develop well, and I could feel a definite change in their attitude. . . . I am eager to find out what happens to this group of friends, as well as Bria and the difficult person her dad hires to get the Bakery back in order."


"I found this a sweet, charming, and quick little read. It didn’t hurt this was written in short chapters which made reading it quite the breeze as I kept moving along. McClone really kept the pacing going and didn’t “bog” down the story at any one point. I was over 100+ pages in the first sitting. So, it was difficult to put it down. I wanted to devour and yet savor this sweet read and that was about the only conflict I had with it."


"What pulls me into the writing style of Melissa McClone is her realistic approach to telling Bria's story - this is why I love reading Women's Fiction because at the heart of the genre itself is a threading of a woman's life from all aspects of how she lives it. . . . These kinds of stories are a refreshing read . . ."


"Cupcakes & Crumbs by Melissa McClone is clean, women’s fiction that will appeal to readers who enjoy stories of female friendships. Though there are some budding romances, the story focuses on the power of friendship and how it can support, encourage, and enhance life. In several ways, this novel’s ending was left open and served as set up for the rest of the series."


Goose bumps covered her arms. Her muscles bunched. “Dalton.”

He covered her hand with his. “Relax, Bri.”

No one else had ever called her that. And forget about relaxing when her pulse shot off the charts. “I’m not sure I can.”

"Try.” Dalton lifted his hand, and a chill rushed up her arm as if missing his touch. “Tonight is dinner with an old friend. Nothing more.”

Pause for Tales - Review

"I enjoyed watching these once upon a time work friends spend time together. True friendship is what they had, and Elise brought them together in her life and in her death. . . . I enjoyed getting to know each one of these women. I would not say this is a stand alone story as it ended on a bit of a shocker for one of these women, and I would like to see to see a resolution there."


"Cupcakes & Crumbs was a pure delight to read and exactly what I would expect from Melissa McClone. I have loved reading her books in the past and this one does not disappoint. . . . I can not wait to get my hands on the second installment from the Berry Lake Cupcake Posse series, Tiaras & Teacups, to see what happens next. I recommend this one for readers who enjoys a good, clean and heartwarming read."

Remembrancy - Review

"I was not ready for this book to end (so it’s a good thing this is the first in a series). Cupcakes & Crumbs follows five women who formed friendships as teenagers while working at a local cupcake shop. . . . While this is a quick women’s fiction read, there is a little something for all readers mixed in—a light touch of romance, some mystery, and lots of conflict."


"Cupcakes & Crumbs is a well-written novel that fills you with all the feels. A dash of romance, mystery, and small town charm round out the conflict that leaves none of the friends untouched. Readers become emotionally invested in these main characters, and I’m very glad to see that this is the beginning of a series because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye yet. . . . McClone’s writing voice is smooth and relatable, making this a quick and engaging read"

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"I don't read a lot of women's literature. After reading this book, I think I have been missing out.
The story follows five friends who worked at a cupcake store together as teens and young adults. . . . I look forward to reading more about these women. The story left at a good spot for closure, but there is a lot left to tell."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Cupcakes & Crumbs
(Berry Lake Cupcake Posse #1)
By Melissa McClone
Women's Fiction
Paperback & ebook, 237 Pages
November 17, 2020 by Cardinal Press, LLC

After life takes five women on different paths, a death brings them home. But friendship might not be enough to keep them together.

When Bria Landon and her estranged father each inherit fifty percent of a small-town cupcake shop, her dad hires her worst enemy, and first love, to turn the place into a soulless franchise…or sell it.

To save her aunt’s legacy, Bria needs the help of people who love the bakery as much as she does—her old friends who worked there fifteen years ago. Except each woman is dealing with her own problem:

Juliet, who's trying to prove she’s more than a trophy wife; Missy, a widow who fears losing the job she loves; Nell, who's meddling mother won't stop playing matchmaker; and Selena, a life coach who excels at fixing everyone else's lives...but hasn't a clue what's missing in her own.

Each woman wants to believe their friendship can overcome anything. But as the Berry Lake Cupcake Posse reunite to save their beloved cupcake shop, they soon discover the undertaking will bring more trouble than they expected.

(Affiliate links included.)



Bookstagram Tour


Check out the Bookstagram Tour here, which has its own giveaway!


About the Author


USA TODAY bestselling author Melissa McClone writes heartwarming women’s fiction and sweet contemporary romance novels for Cardinal Press, Tule Publishing Group, and Harlequin Books. When she’s not writing relatable characters and sigh-worthy happy endings, she spends rainy Pacific Northwest reading from her Kindle’s ever-growing TBR, napping, and decorating her Happy Planner. Melissa lives in Washington state with her husband, three children, a Norwegian Elkhound, and three cats who think they rule the house. They do!
 
Tour Giveaway


A Cupcakes & Crumbs Prize Pack, which includes:
A $10 Amazon gift card, cupcake makeup bag set, cupcake charm, cupcake socks, set of magnetic clips, lip gloss, key chain, sticker, swag pack, and bookmark (US only)

Ends November 25, 2020

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Friday, November 20, 2020

Grand Finale Blitz: Dreaming of Tomorrow by Michelle De Bruin on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

After months of waiting for its release, I'm so happy to finally share this book with you. It has all of my favorite things in it, including marriage to a special man, old houses, and the congregation of the Body of Christ. Enjoy reading the book reviews and author interviews, and be sure to enter the drawing for a giveaway. . .


"I enjoyed this sweet romance. It was such a delight to read Karen and Logan’s story. It is one of those books that will make me laugh at one moment and grab the tissues at another. . . . I recommend it for readers who enjoy clean romance. I thought it was a good and not one to be missed."


“This is lovely.” Mother’s eyes brightened.

“Very stylish. With your daughter’s blonde hair and fair skin, this lace would make a perfect complement to her wedding gown. Women with her coloring should wear white, not ivory or creamier shades.” Mother’s personal dress designer stepped closer and tapped her chin.

Karen preferred the white fabric to the cream one. The white was her choice for the dress she would wear to marry Logan, but mother’s choice of lace, beautiful as it was, didn’t fit with her desire for simplicity.


"The character growth throughout the series has been fun to see, the way readers get to follow along with a romance that is not sudden nor rushed but sweet and learning gave a warm and cozy feeling.
If you enjoy historical romances, stories about teachers, pastors, or small town settings this is the book for you!"

Books & Benches - Excerpt

“Missing him, aren’t you?” Julia looked at her with concern.

“Terribly.” Karen lowered her voice to a whisper. “I never wanted this teaching job. I only took it because the salary will give us a good start to our marriage.”

“Very noble and worthwhile in the end. You’ll see.” Julia patted her knee below the table.


"This is a delightfully fun drama! Although there is not a lot of action, the story steadily moved along, maintaining the readers interest. . . . The writing was very good, the Cover image and title were well-chosen, and the plot held some humor as well as romance."


“Tell us about your engagement ring, Miss Millerson.” Blanche pointed to Karen’s hand.

“It’s pretty. Who is the groom?” Jane asked.

The other members in the party, lagging after the efforts of memorization, snapped to full attention.

“His name is Logan, and he lives in Iowa.” Karen removed the ring from her finger and passed it around the gathering.


"A beautiful story well written indeed! . . . I highly recommend this story for it will leave you feeling comforted in more ways than one and your heart feeling full and satisfied."

Lisa's Reading - Excerpt

“But you’re the talk of the town. Ever since your announcement of your upcoming wedding, downtown has been buzzing.” James Koelman, senior partner in his law firm, leaned forward and pointed at Logan.

“It’s been great for sales. The young men in Oswell City are taking their cues from you, Pastor De Witt. Rings are flying off the shelf.” Artie Goud, proprietor of the jewelry store, clicked his tongue in delight. “If I were you, I’d expect a busy fall season filled with weddings.”


"This was the second book I read from the author. The book is a cozy read . . . I did enjoy reading about Logan and Karen's family. I liked that he took the path of being straightforward and forgiveness."

Hallie Reads - Excerpt

Logan gave her another twirl, and this time when he fell into rhythm with her, he used the correct foot. “I think I’m getting the hang of this.”

“You’re doing a wonderful job. A fast learner.” Karen kept pace with him as he followed the music.

When the waltz ended, he paused and offered a grand bow.

Pause for Tales - Review

"I have been following this series since the beginning, through all of Logan's and Karen's ups and downs and I was really excited for this next chapter. It did not disappoint and I am so glad the author gave us their long awaited marriage and to see them work as a married couple. . . . This was a great ending to an interesting courtship."


“This is Pastor Logan De Witt from Iowa,” she introduced him over and over again, as the guests shook Logan’s hand and received his sunlit smile.

Whenever a gap occurred in the line, Karen took a step back. She really didn’t need to move out of her place in the receiving line at all, but it gave her a better view of Logan. The borrowed tuxedo made him look positively dapper. The long tails and crisp cut of the jacket accentuated his height. The white shirt beneath and the white bow tie gave him distinction and also spoke of his natural appreciation of the finer things.


"Author Michelle De Bruin successfully conveys Logan's efforts to serve his congregation while adjusting to married life and she captures Karen's desire to live up to their rural community's expectations of a minister's wife. . . . The characters are well-developed and I recommend Dreaming of Tomorrow to all who appreciate historical Christian romance."

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“How would you like to say goodbye?” He asked in a quiet voice.

Karen considered the question. “Take a walk with me.” There was still one place she wanted to visit with him. A peaceful evening and a spacious garden awaited them. She led him to the door she used when she slipped out to read his letters. A brick path curved around the house to the garden’s gate. Karen opened it and strolled at Logan’s side through hedges of hydrangea, groupings of lilies, butterfly bushes, and a wide variety of late summer flowers. They reached the scrolled iron table and chairs on the far side of the fountain.

“I could marry you tonight.” Logan draped his suit coat over the back of one of the chairs and took her in his arms. “You know that, don’t you?”

Remembrancy - Review

"I also appreciated that De Bruin didn’t sugar coat Logan’s and Karen’s lives. There was sorrow alongside joy, the hard truths of life alongside fulfilled dreams, and a look into the relationship before and after marriage.

Fans of Janette Oke or those who simply want a cozy and uplifting read will enjoy this book as well as the entire series."


". . . I must commend Ms. De Bruin on her writing style and voice in regards to how she paints pictures with her choices in words, phrases and the constructs of her narrative. She has a lovely way of giving subtle notations of place within her story and those are cherished because I love seeing the ease in which she has fused them together."


“I think I’ll take a look at this now.” Karen held up her gift.

Logan smiled, so she unwrapped the box. No writing on the outside indicated the contents. Karen opened the box and pulled out a small glass container oval in shape with a liquid inside.

“Read it.” Logan turned the glass bottle around.

“Song of the Spring.” A whiff of flowers reached her nose. “You bought me perfume.”


"The author crafts this story in short chapters which definitely made it easy to read and keep up with the story without losing interest. There were some areas that lagged and others that sped up a bit. De Bruin’s writing is definitely descriptive and vivid which draws the reader so far into the story they almost feel like they’re there with the characters. . . . Overall, I really enjoyed this beautiful, poignant, endearing saga of love; that added a devastating, and heart-breaking reality of immeasurable loss.

Fans of the author, genre, and those who’ve read the two previous novels are sure to enjoy this story."

Kimber Li - Excerpt

The organ music faded away. Henry brought Karen to a stop at the front of the church.

Pete cleared his throat. “Who gives this woman to be married to this man?”

“Her mother and I.” Henry lifted Karen’s veil and pecked a kiss to her cheek.

Logan stepped forward. Karen held onto his arm and went with him to stand before Pete. The service unfolded like a pleasant dream. He said what he’d rehearsed at the proper times and with no stutters. Someone must have prayed for his speech to flow so smoothly in this crucial moment. His heart did the talking, not his intellect.

Splashes of Joy - Review

"And what a special time to witness this beautiful, long awaited wedding! De Bruin does a really great job of giving readers an ending to a beautiful ending to this courtship. I didn’t read book one in this series, but I sure have enjoyed books 2 and three. If you love a sweet clean historical Romance, I highly recommend this one to you!"

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Dreaming of Tomorrow
By Michelle De Bruin
Christian Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 317 Pages
November 10, 2020 by Scrivenings Press LLC

Love leads them to a lifetime of commitment where the dreams they have held onto for so long start to come true.

Popular and eligible, Logan De Witt must convince the women in town that he is engaged to be married. A quiet, simple ceremony is what he has in mind for his wedding day, but when the date and time of his bride’s arrival is published in the newspaper, the whole town joins in the celebration proving to Logan and his new wife their sincere friendship and support. Added to the excitement of Logan’s marriage is the question of what the congregation should do with the unexpected donation of an orchard.

Karen Millerson is counting the days until her long-distance engagement comes to an end and she may travel to Oswell City to marry Logan. More than anything, she wants to share in his life as a help and support, but keeping a house and finding her place in the community requires much more work than she ever expected.

Learn, laugh, and love with Karen and Logan as they start a new marriage and work together ministering to the citizens of their small town.

(Affiliate links included.)

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author


Michelle De Bruin lives in Iowa with her husband and two teenage sons. She has a bachelor’s degree in Religion with a Christian Ministry emphasis, and in Music. Michelle is the spiritual services provider for an organization that offers services for people with mental and physical disabilities. She has been a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) since 2015. Michelle writes inspirational historical romance about people who live in rural communities. Characters that bring to life the delights of farm and small-town living, whispers of Dutch heritage, and Christian faith make Michelle’s stories distinct. A romantic at heart, Michelle is always on the lookout for glimpses of God’s love through the window of a good story.

Her first book, Hope for Tomorrow, released in 2018. The sequel, Promise for Tomorrow, released November 2019. The third book in the series, Dreaming of Tomorrow, releases November 2020.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $20 (USD) Amazon Gift Card and a copy of Dreaming of Tomorrow (winner can choose print if in the US and ebook outside the US)

Open internationally
Ends November 25, 2020

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Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Grand Finale Blitz : Holidays Inc by Rachelle Paige Campbell on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

Holidays, Inc. is the book of my heart. I grew up on old movies and have always loved when the ultimate solution to the problem is to put on a show. For years, I’ve been drafting various ideas about a showbusiness romance but found inspiration after watching a news story about a group of young business people determined to save their town. . .

Kimber Li - Excerpt

He stood taller and puffed out his chest. “Do you need me to move something?”

She scanned the muscles straining under the basic T-shirt. He probably purchased a multi-pack on a grocery run, yet the cotton hugged like a custom fit highlighting a trim figure. As she met his gaze, she spotted the fine lines around his eyes. He was definitely a few years older than her, but not by much.

Her chin trembled. “No, no, heavy lifting.” She smoothed a stray tendril behind her ear, brushing her fingers against her warm cheeks.

The Review Crew - Review

"Holidays Inc. takes you through the year, planning big festive events for each holiday making this the perfect read for any time of the year. . . . As the two deal with their own struggles and their potential love match, we are introduced to a town with that Stars Hollow small town feel with supporting characters you can’t help but fall in love with. The town is so full of support and hope, the kind of community we all want to have surround us. I truly enjoyed getting to know each character and wanted them to succeed in their adventures."

BookHounds - Excerpt

He swallowed the sigh building in his throat. The town changed, but not his twin. For most of their lives, his sister slumped and slouched in her never-ending quest to avoid attention. As fraternal twins, they shared a remarkable number of physical similarities, including height, dark brown hair, and gray-blue eyes. In the light, her eyes looked blue and his gray. By choice, Jill faded into the background. He’d utilized those exact attributes to stand out in a crowd.

Her smile lit her whole face brighter than the old marquee outside the theater. He slid across the smooth bench seat and interlaced his fingers on the Formica tabletop. With a deep breath, he counted to ten but couldn’t calm the throbbing in his temples.

“I’m so glad you’re here.” She dropped her menu.


"This story is portrayed in a small town named New Hope. I love that first because I love small town living. Secondly, I believe we are all looking for new hope. . . . I highly recommend this book to all those who enjoy a good romance. This story is a great read."


“I can’t.” Her voice cracked. Exhaling a heavy sigh, she stopped tapping and slumped her torso. Without the rush of adrenaline, she could barely hold up her head and definitely couldn’t fight the truth. “I don’t have the luxury of running everything on my own. Until I have a full managerial staff, I’ll be extinguishing fires and lighting other ones.”

“What happens when you do?” He lowered his brow and fixed his stare. “Don’t you want to score and direct your shows?”

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“Come on.” He scoffed. “If she ended up here, can she really have a celebrity network? No offense.”

“Some offense taken.” She sighed. “I can list any number of reasons why someone might choose a town like New Hope.”

“Like she’s on the run from the law? Or she’s conning the town and planning to bolt?” His instincts about people swerved way off base with his last partner. If he’d been cheated by a friend of ten years, how could he believe Dani—a stranger—and her too-good-to-be-true job offer? She doesn’t judge me. He drank the rest of the coffee, quenching his dry mouth. Being a good listener didn’t absolve Dani of nefarious motives.

Wishful Endings - Review

"HOLIDAYS, INC. is a story of second chances, not only for the two main characters, but also for this small-town. It's also about family, unexpected love, how dreams can change, and figuring out that fame isn't all it's professed to be. Recommended to clean romance readers who enjoy small-town settings and a touch of Christmas cheer. . . . This was a fun read with plenty of sweet moments of both friendship, family, and romance. I'm hoping for more stories set in this small town from this author!"


“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I’m looking for a friend. Guess I stumbled into your finale. My humblest apologies,” a throaty, feminine voice said over the sound system.

Claps, cheers, and whistles boomed through the theater.

Frozen in place, he turned and focused on the figure strolling across the stage.

Carrying a microphone in one hand, a petite blonde sashayed in sequins.

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"I love the relationship that starts as "enemies" which turns into friends and finally attraction. The way they banter and relate to each other was a pleasure to read. Both find it hard to trust and their trust is tested when an old "friend" of Dani comes to town. It is a great reminder that new dreams can be made and priorities shifted. . . . If you are looking for a book that makes you "feel good". This is a great one to pick up."

Splashes of Joy - Review

"I love this sweet clever small town romance, and I have always loved a hate turned love relationship in characters. There is usually much tension and not so nice conversations among the characters at first as well. All things I love in a quirky Romance novel. . . . If you are in for some Christmas reads, this is a great one to choose. Check it out, purchase you a copy, grab a warm blanket and cup of coffee or hot chocolate and you are ready for a few hours of reading Holidays, Inc."


His low laughter tugged at the tight coil wrapped like a belt around her fluttering stomach. She caught her lower lip with her teeth and stumbled, her shoe catching in a crack on the pavement. Stretching her arms forward, she brushed his bicep with a hand.

Wrapping an arm around her waist, he lifted her against his body.

She focused on his dilated pupils, her chest rapidly rising with shallow breaths. “Sorry,” she murmured. “Thank you. I’m tossing these shoes.”

He lowered her to the sidewalk. “What a shame.”


Paul straightened. The performers commanded attention, and the sweetness of their interaction enraptured him. I’d like to have that someday . He slipped a finger under his crew neck collar. With only inches of separation, he heightened his awareness of her so close to his right side. He hadn’t felt anything either professionally or personally for a long time. At the theater, he couldn’t deny the rush of excitement for both. If he made a move, he risked his career. Would holding back shutter his heart?

Dani leaned toward him. “Now, they have a spark,” she murmured. “I can’t believe your family isn’t the most talented in town.”

Remembrancy - Review

"There is so much more to Holidays, Inc. by Rachelle Paige Campbell than the book blurb. This story is about a struggling small town, friendships, and finding a place your heart can call home. . . . From the get-go, the exchanges between Dani and Paul start out rough but as they warm up to each other, their conversations shift to more. Add in a secondary budding romance (which I sincerely hope we get a resolution to in a future book) and a Hallmark-esque ending, and Holidays, Inc. is a charming read with the happy finale romance readers crave."


“What do you have?”

“You agreed to help with town research.” He grinned and raised a large to-go bag. “The least I could do was provide sustenance.”

If we eat together, our acceptable work meeting becomes a date. The crazy logic flared in her chest. She pressed hands to her sides, breathing through the scalding pain in her ribs. Somehow kissing him onstage was acceptable behavior? “I have heartburn. I better not eat anymore.”

Hallie Reads - Excerpt

“We’ll get more tonight,” Jill said.

Dani froze. Slowly, she shut her mouth and raised her scarf over her nose and cheeks. With the toe of her boot, she traced lazy circles on the sidewalk in front of the grocery store.

Jill crossed the pavement. “Snow, I mean.”

Frowning, Dani pieced together Jill’s greeting. “You think so? My phone didn’t say anything.”

“You trust a phone designed in California over a born-and-bred Wisconsin girl about snow?” Jill shook her head and chuckled.


“The kitchen is located in the building next door. It used to be a p—”

“The pizzeria?” Nora widened her gaze.

“Long gone before I arrived.” Dani shrugged and continued to the employee entrance to the auditorium. With a hand on the knob, she swung open the door. “And this is the theater.”

Nora stepped through and gasped. “Wow.” She turned in a slow circle. “I never imagined Howell Cinemas could be transformed into something so grand. What you’ve done here is miraculous.”


“Dani, he’s perfect. I’m taking him home.” Kara stood in front of the cluttered desk, fingers splaying on her tiny waist and one shoulder tilting forward.

“Shhh.” Dani shut the door and turned the lock. With years of lessons, Kara trained her voice to carry from stage to the rafters. Dani pressed her ear “and cheek against the solid door, straining for any sound. Silence greeted her. Sagging her shoulders, she turned and faced her visitor.

Under the dull fluorescent lighting, she shimmered. Always a star. Dani frowned. Did she categorize Kara as a friend, a one-time confidante, or an enemy? Until last autumn, Dani considered Kara a sister. Dani barely repressed her instinct to embrace Kara. With more time, Dani hoped for a reconciliation. Today was too soon.


Dani poked her head through the slim opening and lifted her gaze.

Her blue eyes sparkled. He ran a hand through his hair. Waiting to enter the office filled him with dread from a childhood of being called to task in the very spot. He couldn’t use the same excuse for stalling today.

“Hi, Paul, what’s up?”

“I wanted to chat with you.” He cleared his throat. “About the other night.”

I'm Into Books - Excerpt

“I’ve been talking to my agent about the guy at your place. Everyone loves the idea of a show about—wait for it—are you ready?” She squealed. “When you hear the angle, you’ll scream. It’s genius. Hollywood comes to save small-town America. The storyline is perfect, and the script writes itself. Who doesn’t adore an underdog?”

Are you stealing my life? Gritting her teeth, Dani counted to ten and breathed through her nose. She definitely wanted to scream. Over the past three weeks, she hadn’t heard a peep from Kara and assumed the plans stalled. Dani hoped her oldest friend found another idea for her latest comeback pitch. Dani pinched the bridge of her nose. The idea of the two united as a pair twisted her heart more than Kara running off with her ex-boyfriend. “I… I… I really don’t know what to say.”

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Holidays, Inc.
By Rachelle Paige Campbell
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 260 Pages
November 4, 2020 by The Wild Rose Press, Inc

Former child actress, Danielle "Dani" Winter, left Hollywood to transform an old cinema into a dinner theater, seeing the project as her chance to take control of her future. The middle-of-nowhere location in Wisconsin is a perfect escape from backstabbing celebrity friends. The small town welcomes her help with open arms, but one man questions her plan.

After unsuccessful writing stints on both coasts, Paul Howell returns home to New Hope. He's shocked to discover that his sister has sold the family business to a beautiful woman. With the encouragement of his neighbors, he reluctantly agrees to write Dani's next musical.

Working together, they discover more similarities than differences and grow close. When Dani's former best friend and America's sweetheart, Kara Kensington arrives, their blossoming relationship is threatened in more ways than one.

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Rachelle Paige Campbell writes contemporary romance filled with heart and hope. No matter the location—big city, small town, or European kingdom—her feel-good stories always end with a happily ever after. She’s grateful for the support of her family, her robot floor cleaner, and her reluctant writing partner (her dog).


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $10 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

Ends November 19, 2020

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