Wednesday, December 13, 2023

"The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle" Blog Tour by Daniel Petronelli



About the Book

 


Book: The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle

Author: Daniel Petronelli

Genre: Religion & Spirituality, Holiday Celebration, Children’s Chapter Book, Inspirational, Action & Adventure

Release Date: October, 2021

In the small foothill village of Shiloh on a stormy Christmas Eve, a group of children find themselves lost in a powerful storm. When a chance encounter with a kind stranger presents itself, their faith is put to the test as they discover the true meaning of Christmas, learn valuable life lessons, and experience the transformative power of just one tiny seed: The Seed of Faith.

This unforgettable, multi-award-winning story will inspire readers of all ages to believe in miracles and the unwavering presence of God in their lives.

 
 
Click here to get your copy!

My Review
The Seed of Faith is a wonderful children's book filled with wonder and faith.

A father explains the inspiring story of Faith Hill and how three brave boys from Reidsville went to set things right by giving their town a special gift for the village square. There are lots of magical miracles taking place and the story reminds us about love and helping others.

The message in the book came across well and will warm the adult's heart, as well as, being a magical tale that youngsters will enjoy. The illustrations are well done and depict the story well.
Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and willingly chose to review it.
 

About the Author


Dan Petronelli was born and raised in Brockton, Massachusetts. He currently divides his time with his wife between West Bridgewater, Massachusetts and Stuart, Florida.

He is a strong member of his local community and has served as a Christian worship leader where he led a large congregation in praise and worship songs, including two of his original songs: “ Walking in the Light” and “ Providence.”

Dan Petronelli participated in Smith’s Magazine’s Six-Word Memoir contest, and his memoir was selected and later published by HarperCollins.

Dan found a message in a bottle when he was a young boy tinkering on a rocky shoreline. It was a profound spiritual message that he has kept and still treasures today.

This inspired story was written as a cherished Christmas gift for his family, and it is his hope that the SEED OF FAITH will also bring joy and continue to grow in the hearts of readers around the world.

More from Dan

”The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle” is an inspiring story about the joy and blessings of faith.

I originally wrote this heartfelt story as a Christmas gift for my family, and it has since become a cherished tradition for us to read together on Christmas Eve. Encouraged by friends and relatives, I was inspired to share this story with a wider audience.

The book features numerous beautiful color illustrations by the talented artist Emily Pritchett.

At its core, this multi-award-winning tale focuses on finding courage during life’s most challenging moments and drawing strength from the Lord, knowing that He is always by your side.

Its captivating spiritual adventure unfolds as a small group of children finds themselves lost in a powerful storm on Christmas Eve, making it an engaging read for children.

This story glorifies the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ, not Santa Claus.

It illustrates the power of just one tiny seed of faith, showing that with God’s blessings, it can grow in the hearts and change the lives of all who believe.

My earnest hope is that “The Seed of Faith” will continue to take root and flourish in the hearts of readers around the world.

Planting a Seed of Faith in the hearts of our children—what greater gift could we possibly give?

                Giveaway



To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Visa Gift Certificate, as signed hardcover copy of the book, and a Christmas Tree Grow Kit!!*

(* Grow your own Christmas Tree from seed!
Includes: Seeds, Growing medium, a mini-greenhouse, and detailed instructions)

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/29248/the-seed-of-faith-a-christmas-miracle-celebration-tour-giveaway

Saturday, December 9, 2023

My Review of "Capturing Hope" by Angela K. Couch Book Tour

 

 


About the Book

 

Book: Capturing Hope

Author: Angela K Couch

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction

Release Date: November, 2023

One step ahead of the Nazi’s. . .leaves Nadia little room for hope.

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.

After her father is murdered by Nazis and her mother flees to her native Germany, hope is something of which Nadia Roenne feels little—even if it is the meaning of her name. It isn’t until an American photographer sacrifices his escape from Poland to save a Jewish family, that she finds a purpose. David Reid is very familiar with failure, but when he is charged with getting Nadia safely out of Poland, he is determined to succeed—even if she works against him at every turn, putting other’s lives ahead of her own. While they race against the daily shower of bombs over Warsaw and the ever-nearing German army, Nadia grows used to risking her life. . .but dare she risk her heart?

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review
Capturing Hope is a very well-written historical novel about the takeover of Poland by Germany during WWII. Also, the extermination of Polish Jews.

The storyline is a heart-wrenching one fraught with hardships, the unknown future, fear, and death. Among this, the main characters do their best to survive and rescue others, putting their lives in danger. David Reid, a photographer is sworn by Baron Roenne to bring his wife and daughter safely to London. Needless to say, nothing goes smoothly as the invasion begins. The confidence of David and Nadia is uplifting.

The characters seem to leap off the page and pull at your heart. I found myself fully engaged in the story and couldn't put it down through all the twists and turns. The research by the author is amazing.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and willingly chose to review it.

 

About the Author

To keep from freezing in the great white north, Angela K Couch cuddles under quilts with her laptop. Winning short story contests, being a semi-finalist in ACFW’s Genesis Contest, and a finalist in the 2016 International Digital Awards also helped warm her up. As a passionate believer in Christ, her faith permeates the stories she tells. Her martial arts training, experience with horses, and appreciation for good romance sneak in as well. When not writing, she stays fit (and toasty warm) by chasing after five munchkins.

 

 

More from Angela

When I first decided to set a story during the invasion of Poland, I was woefully unprepared for the pain and horror I found there. I wasn’t new to World War II and had just finished writing A Rose for the Resistance, which is set in France during the war and deals with the resistance and the Normandy invasion. The atrocities and genocide in Poland cut so much deeper.

In the early hours of September 1, 1939, the small town of Wielun, Poland, woke to a shower of bombs on their community. They did not house an army or warehouses, only homes and civilian businesses. Wielun was not the only town or village targeted—demonstrating the Nazi goal to spread fear and death. Six months earlier, Hitler had promised that if Poland did not bow to his wishes, he would wipe them off the map. Over the next month, and more so in the following six years, he came very close to succeeding.

For the full month of September 1939, while German armies rolled across the country, the city of Warsaw endured daily bombardment. Homes, workplaces, churches on Sunday morning, the Warsaw maternity hospital— nowhere was safe. On the tenth of September, someone recorded seventeen separate air raids over the city. I was moved to tears while viewing photographs of women and children who had been shot in the streets and fields by the bombers after they had dropped their payloads over the city.

No one came to their rescue.

Poland was abandoned by its allies to the Nazis.

So how do you write about all that and more while still trying to keep hope alive in the story and in the characters who have to live through such a frightening and demoralizing history?

I invite you to read Capturing Hope to find out.


                Blog Stops

An Author’s Take, November 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 30

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 1

Lily’s Corner, December 1

Texas Book-aholic, December 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 3

For him and My Family, December 3

Betti Mace, December 4

Books You Can Feel Good About, December 4

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 5

Cover Lover Book Review, December 5

Alena Mentink, December 6

lakesidelivingsite, December 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 7

Blossoms and Blessings, December 7

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, December 8 (Author Interview)

Devoted to Hope, December 8

Bizwings Book Blog, December 9

Exploring the Written Word, December 9

Holly’s Book Corner, December 10

Pause for Tales, December 10

Connie’s History Classroom, December 11

Labor Not in Vain, December 11

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 12

Lights in a Dark World, December 12

Joy Suzanne Hunt, December 13

Books I’ve Read, December 13


                 Giveaway



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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2909b/capturing-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

Friday, December 8, 2023

Review of "The Warsaw Sisters" by Amanda Barratt

 



On a golden August morning in 1939, sisters Antonina and Helena DÄ…browska send their father off to defend Poland against the looming threat of German invasion. The next day, the first bombs fall on Warsaw, decimating their beloved city and shattering the world of their youth.

When Antonina's beloved Marek is forced behind ghetto walls along with the rest of Warsaw's Jewish population, Antonina turns her worry into action and becomes a key figure in a daring network of women risking their lives to shelter Jewish children. Helena finds herself drawn into the ranks of Poland's secret army, joining the fight to free her homeland from occupation. But the secrets both are forced to keep threaten to tear the sisters apart--and the cost of resistance proves greater than either ever imagined.

Shining a light on the oft-forgotten history of Poland during WWII and inspired by true stories of ordinary individuals who fought to preserve freedom and humanity in the darkest of times, The Warsaw Sisters is a richly rendered portrait of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of our deepest ties.


To Purchase


About the Author

Amanda Barratt is the bestselling author of numerous historical novels and novellas including THE WARSAW SISTERS, WITHIN THESE WALLS OF SORROW, and THE WHITE ROSE RESISTS. Her work has been the recipient of the Christy Award and the Carol Award, as well as an Honorable Mention in the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards.

Amanda is passionate about illuminating oft-forgotten facets of history through a fictional narrative. She lives in Michigan and can often be found researching her next novel, catching up on her to-be-read stack, or savoring a slice of her favorite lemon cake.

To connect with Amanda, visit: www.amandabarratt.net.


My Review

If I could give this historical novel a 5+ I would. This is by far one of the best-researched and written historical novels I've read.

Although, heartwrenching at times and emotional, it was balanced out with hope. Two sisters, Antonina and Helena, each chose their own path working for the resistance when the Germans occupied Poland. They risked their lives many times for others.

The storyline is filled with heroism, courage, and the cruelty of war. At times, tears filled my eyes, soon to be replaced with pride at the sisters' heroic actions. The book left me thinking about the impact on Warsaw's citizens, the Jewish people living among them, and the drastic changes in their lives. Highly recommended. I couldn't put it down.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Revell, and chose to review it. A positive review is not required and all opinions are my own.


Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Review of "Wounded Tiger" by T. Martin Bennett



Wounded Tiger is the true, character-driven story of the Japanese pilot who led the Pearl Harbor attack, an American prisoner of war, and a college girl who becomes the fulcrum of change in this epic book. 


Three incredibly different people's paths cross in ways so remarkable that it would be hard to believe if it weren't so well documented. This is a meticulously researched true story of hatred, love, revenge, and redemption.


This massively updated 3rd edition for 2023 contains new content, information, and over 300 historic photographs and documents, some of which have never before been published!



To Purchase



My Review


Wounded Tiger is based on a true story following three different people. I'm a fan of historical fiction and the author has woven a story that reads like historical fiction but has historical accuracy which gives us the best of both. I was amazed at how easy the story was to read. The addition of the many photos brought the story to life for me.

Following the lives of Mitsuo Fuchida, Jake Desazer, and the Covell family, gave me the perspective to see how each reacted to the war they became part of. The story is intense, at times heartbreaking, and left people's lives changed forever.

If you are a history buff or enjoy true historical stories told in fiction style, this one is for you.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.





        More About the Book


  





                                                                                                                    








                                                                    
















To remember and honor Pearl Harbor Memorial Day, we're excited to offer you the chance to win a copy of the critically acclaimed “Wounded Tiger” by T. Martin Bennett

                        Enter the Giveaway


  

Monday, December 4, 2023

New Release December 5th- "When Love Comes" (Wyoming Sunrise Book 3) by Penny Zeller








Can love be found amidst broken hearts and unexpected loss?

Determined to heal her broken heart, Charlotte Eliason visits her aunts in Prune Creek, Wyoming. What should be a time of peace and calm becomes one of chaos and unwelcome surprises when she discovers her longtime foe, Tobias Hallman, is the new blacksmith. To make matters worse, her two meddlesome aunts are constantly inviting him to supper and encouraging friendship between the two sworn enemies.

Tobias Hallman has always wanted to be a blacksmith, so when an opportunity arises to own his own shop in Prune Creek, he seizes it. However, he doesn’t expect to cross paths with his childhood nemesis, the annoying Charlotte Eliason. But if she’s so annoying, why is she constantly on his mind?

When tragedy strikes, close proximity soon forces two reluctant hearts to become allies in a quest to rescue Tobias’s orphaned niece. Can Charlotte and Tobias put aside their preconceived disdain for each other and find love in the midst of challenging circumstances? Does God have a plan for them and for a young girl grieving the untimely loss of her parents?

A woman with a broken heart. A man struggling with the loss of his family and the subsequent care of his young niece. And two silly aunts who discover it's never too late for true love.


Preorder today at 99c special pricing!

Purchase


My Review

The story puts Charlotte in the path of a childhood foe, Tobias Hallman. Charlotte isn't happy to find him living in the same town, but God has his plan for her life. Lanie, orphaned by the death of her parents, won my heart and is my favorite character.

The main characters were very relateable, the storyline was filled with instances of God's love and grace. Lots of humorous banter from Charlotte's aunts, surprising circumstances you won't see coming, and lots of faith and hope.

One of Penny's best. Highly recommended.


I received a complimentary ARC from the author and willingly chose to review it. All opinions are my own.



 


Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Once Upon the Very First Christmas by Rory Feek

 


Bestselling author and songwriter Rory Feek takes children and families on a beloved journey to Christmas past in Once Upon the Very First Christmas. On a picturesque farm, schoolchildren gather their homemade costumes and props and put on a heartwarming Christmas play for the community. As they don halos for the angel choir or round up sheep for the final nativity scene, readers will be immersed in the greatest blessings of Christmas—the gift of Jesusand be reminded that we can rejoice together in the wonder of the season.

Rory's soothing and lyrical retelling of the Christmas story

  • is paired with magical illustrations by Christine Cuddihy of a homemade Christmas play,
  • is perfect for ages 4 to 8, and
  • is a great gift for Christmas, baby showers, and baptisms.

Take a moment to slow down this Advent and Christmas to treasure that first Christmas, God's gift of Jesus, and every precious moment He's given you to celebrate with family and friends.



Purchase




My Review


Once Upon the Very First Christmas is a new retelling of the Christmas story from the eyes of the schoolchildren's play, held on a farm.  The story is filled with beautiful illustrations of the children as they put on the play for the community.


The book is a large size with a beautifully illustrated cover in vivid colors that will get your children's attention. It is well written in short sentences that children can understand.


Celebrate the magic of Christmas with your little ones with Once Upon the Very First Christmas with Rory's soothing and lyrical storytelling, along with Christine Cuddihy's vivid illustrations, young readers will be immersed in the story of the first Christmas, the gift of Jesus.


Get your copy today and start a new tradition of reading this to your young loved ones each Christmas. A book to enjoy and create special moments with your family.








Friday, November 10, 2023

Blog Tour of The Restless Wrangler by Karen Baney

 

 


About the Book

 


Book: The Restless Wrangler

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Christian Western

Release Date: March 8, 2023

A Prodigal Son, Surprise Baby Christian Historical Cowboy Romance. Compelling love story full of heartache and redemption set in Ash Fork, Arizona Territory in 1893-1894.

Preston Colter felt like he was the forgotten son. Years of drinking and drifting finally catch up to him. When a near-death experience recharts the course of his life, he finds himself face-to-face with an old flame. Will he prove he is a new and different man, or will he fall back into his old destructive ways

Years ago, Hetty Clark made one bad choice to follow her attraction to a man she loved which led to the birth of her son out of wedlock. After she inherits her father’s ranch, an older man offers her security for her son’s future if she marries him. When the man from her past shows up on her doorstep, she is faced with a difficult decision. Will she choose a loveless proposal to secure her son’s future? Or will she risk her heart on a man she doesn’t believe has really changed?

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review
The Restless Wrangler is a good story about overcoming an addiction and a second chance for happiness. Preston & Hetty have a painful past history. Hetty has trouble forgiving Preston. Preston is harboring guilt and a long separation from his family. He's been the prodigal son for quite a while.

Things change dramatically throughout the story. Some changes are a challenge and others a blessing. My heart went out to Preston and Hetty. With God's help and faith things can change for the positive.

The ending wrapped up nicely and I enjoyed taking the journey with the Coulter family. Great fleshed characters with lots of layers, good storyline, and historical details woven in. Highly recommended.

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

 

About the Author


Karen Baney is passionate about writing stories full of flawed characters. She enjoys weaving together stories of second chances, redemption, and overcoming personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona in the late 1990s, she loves researching the state’s history and finding ways to seamlessly incorporate real history and real settings into her novels. In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry.

Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. Both Jim and Karen are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

 

More from Karen

What was the inspiration behind Preston Colter’s character?

I love a good prodigal story—partly because I was one. I also figured in a family with five boys and one daughter, at least one of them had to have a rebellious streak. Very early in developing the series, I felt like this role would be perfect for a fifth son.

Why did you write the series in the first person?

A few years ago, I read a historical series by Tess Thompson where she wrote the hero and heroine in the first person. I had enjoyed how the point of view felt deeper when written in the first person, so with the Colter Sons Series, I decided to give it a try. Since then, I’ve loved hearing from many readers how much they’ve enjoyed it.

If you’re a little nervous about reading something in the first person, please take advantage of the sample download feature available on most ereaders, including Kindle. The point of view characters are clearly marked at the beginning of the chapter and whenever the point of view changes.

Hetty Clark is a rancher?! What inspired you to choose that profession for her, especially since the book is set in 1893?

One of my favorite research sites for Arizona territorial history is the Sharlot Hall Museum’s online archives and “Days Past” articles. I read several articles about the early days of Prescott, Arizona’s Independence Day Celebrations. These were HUGE events for the town and surrounding communities, which eventually expanded into Cowboy Tournaments (aka Rodeo).

After reading an article about the women winners in the Cowboy Tournament in 1888, I dug deeper into what competitions the women participated in. I was surprised to learn that many of the women worked on ranches right alongside their husbands or brothers.

I enjoy writing strong female characters in unconventional roles, so making Hetty Clark a bronc rider and a ranch manager fit perfectly with the type of woman I pictured for Preston.

                     Blog Stops

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 2 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 3

By The Book, November 4 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, November 5

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 6 (Author Interview)

lakesidelivingsite, November 7

Sylvan Musings, November 8 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 9

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, November 10 (Author Interview)

Bizwings Book Blog, November 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 11

Artistic Nobody, November 12 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, November 12

Simple Harvest Reads, November 13 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Guild Master, November 14 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 15

                  Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 gift card with signed paperback copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/28b2b/the-restless-wrangler-celebration-tour-giveaway