Review and Blog Tour of The Resourceful Stockman by Karen Baney

 

About the Book

 

Book: The Resourceful Stockman

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Christian Western

Release Date: January 24, 2023

Gripping western romance and murder mystery set in Prescott, Arizona Territory in 1893.

Deacon Colter was happy in his job as the stockyard vet. But when his best friend asks him to work as a livestock inspector, he must confront his own obsessive-compulsive nature to support his friend. Even though he hopes for a family of his own one day, he believes that no woman will see past his quirks. Will he find a woman who can overlook his behavior to see his true heart?

Grady Thatcher waited six long years for justice for his parents’ murder. When a strange twist of fate puts him in a position to find the killers, he must decide if he will sacrifice his budding romance with one of the Harper sisters to pursue justice. Will he choose love over justice?

Lilian and Justine Harper were two sisters who moved to Prescott to escape the abusive men their father tried to pair them with. When Lilian meets Deacon Colter, she wonders if he could ever love someone with her past. Justine falls hard for Grady Thatcher. Yet she doubts if he truly loves her or if he befriended her only to get information about the men who killed his parents. Will Lilian and Justine find true happiness with the men they love?

 

Click here to get your copy!

  My Review

Set in Prescott, Arizona Territory in 1893. I enjoyed the descriptions of the town, the characters, and the amazing tale. I felt as though I was there watching each scene unfold.

Grady has a haunting past due to the unsolved murder of his parents. Deacon's family takes him in and the two become friends. They try to solve the murder together. The storyline is filled with rustlers, chases, second chances, redemption, and reunions. I loved everything about the book and look forward to reading more of the series. Highly recommended.

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

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.

Visit Karen on the web at: www.karenbaney.com

 

More from Karen

What was the inspiration behind the Colter Sons Series?

 

The Colters (Will and Hannah) are the central characters from my first series, the Prescott Pioneers. For years, I have wanted to write stories about their children. I love the idea of writing many series about several generations of the same family.

 

Nothing came of the idea until I brought back a character, Joshua, from the Prescott Pioneers who fancied Hannah before she married Will. Joshua’s unrequited love led me to write a scene where he meets Hannah and Will again after eight years. To hit home the point that Hannah had everything he always wanted, I spontaneously wrote that she had five sons. Only a few sentences sparked the idea for the entire Colter Sons Series. (Joshua’s story is in Joy for Mourning, Book 2 in the Desert Manna Series).

 

Before I mapped out a series outline or developed the characters, I wrote the introductory chapters in the first person from each of the son’s point of view. Their personalities came to life, and I eventually fine-tuned that writing exercise in Chapter 1 for each of the books in the series.

 

Where does Deacon Colter fit into the series?

 

Deacon Colter is the fourth Colter Son, and his book is the fourth in the series. Since he was a very minor character earlier in the series, I refined some of his character traits. (Don’t worry, I write each book in a series to stand on its own, so you won’t miss anything.)

 

Out of all the Colter Sons, Deacon is the most socially awkward. What made Deacon special for me was that behind his looming, large exterior lies a soft heart and fierce loyalty for those who he cares about. When under stress, his obsessive-compulsive tendencies become harder to control.

 

Do you normally write a story with over two points of view? Why write the four points of view in The Resourceful Stockman?

 

Other than my very first series, The Prescott Pioneers, I usually stick with two points of view in my novels: the hero and the heroine.

 

However, earlier in the Colter Sons Series, I wrote that Deacon Colter became fast friends with Grady Thatcher, the younger brother of the woman who married Deacon’s older brother Sam (The Reluctant Cattleman, Book 1). When it came time to outline the story, I knew Grady’s story had to be told along with Deacon’s. Doing anything else would disappoint fans and leave the story feeling incomplete.

 

Grady’s quest to solve his parents’ murder provided the perfect catalyst to force the routine-loving, obsessive-compulsive Deacon outside of his comfort zone. Because he is fiercely loyalty, he risked much to help his friend.

 

Where did the idea for livestock agents come from?

 

I initially wanted to make Deacon and Grady Arizona Rangers. However, during my research, the timing and even some duties didn’t fit either of these men. I like to stay true to history. Rarely do I take creative liberty because I want readers to learn about Arizona history. Deacon and Grady’s ages put them about a decade before the Arizona Rangers formed.

 

So, I continued with my research about brand-burning and rustling. When I stumbled on an Arizona Territorial statute to create a Livestock Commission, complete with details on what the duties entailed, I had my answer. The timing and duties fit. Many livestock agents started as veterinarians or ranchers. They had the authority to hunt down the rustlers and deal with disease outbreaks. All this fit with my characters.

 

And, yes, everything in the novel about their jobs and the livestock commission’s start is true to history, except for the names of real people.

                     Blog Stops

Alena Mentink, September 28

Lakesidelivingsite, September 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 29

Texas Book-aholic, September 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 1

The Lit Lady, October 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 2

The Book Club Network, October 3

Connie’s History Classroom, October 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 5

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 6

Bizwings Book Blog, October 7

Cover Lover Book Review, October 8

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 9

Pause for Tales, October 9

For Him and My Family, October 10

Lily’s Book Reviews, October 11

                      Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package a $50 Amazon gift card, and a copy of The Resourceful Stockman!!

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/282a5/the-resourceful-stockman-celebration-tour-giveaway

New Release- Chisled on The Heart: A Christmas Legacy Novella Collection

 

A Christmas Legacy Novella Collection

The Gift of a Lamb by Elaine Cooper

In 1776, 14-year-old Charlotte Hawkins and her brother, 10-year-old Elias, are still grieving the death of their parents. Their parents left instructions to be sent from their home state of Virginia to live with relatives they barely know, in Connecticut. The trip was dangerous, as war raged between the Redcoats and the Americans. To make matters worse, the churches in Connecticut don’t celebrate Christmas at all. Will this be the orphans’ worst Christmas ever?

A Lasting Legacy by Cynthia Roemer

Loudoun County, Virginia, 1814. After a disabling injury sends Daniel Hawkins home from war, he struggles how to provide for his young wife, Maggie and the child she’s carrying. As Christmas approaches, he finds a sheep his grandfather carved and attempts to carve a nativity set for Maggie. When she goes into labor during a Christmas Eve blizzard, Daniel is forced to face his feelings of inadequacy. And perhaps learn that God has a plan for his life after all.

Healing within the Pieces by Candace West

Prison shackles haunt Nathaniel Hawkins upon his return home only to discover it occupied by a woman in hiding. Bad men are no strangers to Delia Evans, but the intruder who barged into the farmhouse shrinks from her. With no other refuge, they must endure each other. But have they misjudged? When the past shadows their doorstep, is a grudge worth the price of a man’s life?

The Christmas Carving by Kelly Goshorn

Wyatt Hawkins dreads Christmas. Memories from the fatal shooting of his childhood friend on Christmas Eve, 1864, has left a bitter taste in Wyatt’s mouth toward God, the holiday season, and his former fiancée, Madelyn Cunningham. As Christmas draws near, can the star he’s carving for his family’s heirloom nativity point Wyatt back to the woman he’s never forgotten and the faith he’s left behind?

https://www.amazon.com/Chiseled-Heart-Christmas-Novella-Collection-ebook/dp/B0CGZMNN2B

My Review

Chiseled on the Heart is a great read. I enjoyed all the stories in the collection.

1. The Gift of a Lamb- Elias and his sister, Charlotte move from Virginia to Connecticut after their parents die. Their Uncle Silas takes them. With the war starting between the British & the colonists, their travel was difficult. The story is about family, the effects of war, and new beginnings. The characters were enjoyable and the storyline kept me engaged. Well written and highly recommended.

2. A Lasting Legacy- Daniel Hawkins goes to war and comes back a much different man. This is a story of coming to grips with circumstances, adjusting, and family. The faith element was woven well into the storyline and the characters were well-developed. Recommended inspirational and emotional story.

3. Healing Within the Pieces- Delia and Nathaniel's story is inspiring and heartwarming. A story of fear, redemption, and faith.

4. The Christmas Carving- Wyatt and Madelyn have a troubled past. Can they work together to repair town relationships? The story is about forgiveness and second chances. The story embraces the real meaning of Christmas. Parts of the story brought tears to my eyes from the faith and God's love to care for HIS own and bring them closer to HIM.

Highly recommended.

I received an early complimentary ARC and willingly chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

New Release- A Love Revered: A Sweet Small -Town Later in Life Christian Romance by Dora Hiers

 

What was Iris Rendall thinking renting the beautiful home in Butterfly Bend for the entire summer? The enchanting little beach town might be a popular vacation spot, but her home, her life is hundreds of miles away, and she has no business idling away the summer, doing crazy things like catching crabs and kayaking and swimming in the river with the handsome Ethan Makenna when there is plenty to do at home. When Ethan introduced himself at church, she'd recognized the immediate tug of attraction and the powerful--and unwelcome!--urge to get to know him. If her ex-husband hadn't inflicted enough emotional scars to last the rest of her life, she might be interested. But, even if she was, what man would want an old and broken woman?

After his wife's unexpected passing, Ethan Makenna realizes he made a mistake selling his realty company. Most of his buddies haven't retired yet, and he has no clue how to fill the long days or the tortuous nights. He misses the purpose and identity that came from his career and the powerful love of a good and godly woman. He had his one true love, never expects to find another this late in life, but when he meets the lovely Iris, his heart whispers that there is space and time for a second chance at love.

Can Ethan convince Iris that he's nothing like her first husband? Well, maybe he is, but he's forgiven and a changed man. He longs to be the man that shows her that true love cherishes one another, it's patient and kind, and doesn't give up or go looking elsewhere. Is their faith and love strong enough to overcome Iris's wounds? Can she forgive him for his past? Or will Iris reject a love like she’s never experienced…a love revered.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CCLJPKB2

My Review

The three sisters get together again at Butterfly Bend for Beryl & Ford's wedding. Iris' past marriage and divorce leave her bitter. Trying to be happy for her sister is harder than she thought it would be. Iris can't seem to let go of the pain from the past. She meets Ford's friend, Ethan McKenna, at the wedding.

The story of Iris & Ethan's friendship is tested. Forgiveness and Redemption stop Iris & Ethan in their tracks. They both pray for the Lord's guidance.

This story is a beautifully written later-in-life and a second chance at true love. There is a lot of faith and hope prayed for. The ending of the story was beautiful and reminded me that even the broken can be used by God and made whole again.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Preorder When Love Comes 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.

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 brother and the subsequent care of his young niece. And two silly aunts who discover it's never too late for true love.

https://www.amazon.com/When-Love-Comes-Wyoming-Sunrise-ebook/dp/B0BPWHP44G

Finding Their Christmas Home Blog Tour by Donna Gartshore

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Finding Their Christmas Home by Donna Gartshore, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Finding Their Christmas Home
Author: Donna Gartshore
Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired
Release Date: September 26, 2023
Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Romance

A holiday homecoming 

Could lead to a second chance… 

After years away, Jenny Powell returns to her grandmother’s home, known as “Christmas House,” only to find her ex already there. A household emergency left David Hart and his twin daughters with nowhere else to go, and he enlists Jenny to help him give his daughters a Christmas they’ll never forget. But with the past standing between them, could this holiday season bring the gift of a happily-ever-after for them all?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christian Book | Bookshop |BookBub

 My Review

A good story about Christmas and family. An understanding of the true meaning of forgiveness.
Jenny and David hurt by a past relationship must learn to create a friendship again before their relationship can grow. With the help of David's young twins, Rowena & Reba, they venture on.

The twin girls were so much fun to read about. The strength and optimism in their future are inspirational. The main characters of Jenny & David are real, flaws and all. They have many layers.

The ending wrapped everything up nicely. Recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. A positive review is not required and all opinions are my own.

Also Available

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About the Author

Donna Gartshore lives in Saskatchewan, Canada. Along with writing inspirational romance for Love Inspired, She has also published several short stories and poems with various literary publications and writes devotions. Donna loves family time, walks, coffee and movies with friends, serving in various capacities at the church she attends and talking about books and writing with her friends and the writing community

Connect with Donna by following her on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will win a print copy of Finding Their Christmas Home, Finding Her Voice and a devotional!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 25, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 2, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN 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!

Review of A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson

 

Adelaide Smith is too busy for fairy tales. She's been working hard to put herself through law school and now that the end is in sight, she's determined to stay focused on her goals. Then she receives a letter notifying her that she has been found through a DNA registry to be a direct descendant of King Maximillian V, the ruler of a small Eastern European principality called Montovia. She's understandably skeptical. This is the stuff of cheesy made-for-TV movies, not real life.

Although the pieces of this surprising family puzzle seem too good to be true, curiosity gets the best of her. At the king's invitation, Adelaide embarks on a Christmas break trip that is chock-full of surprises, including a charming village, an opulent palace, family mysteries, royal jealousies, a handsome young member of Parliament--and the chance at a real fairy tale romance with a happily-ever-after ending.

Spend this Christmas with bestselling author Melody Carlson as she whisks you away to a royal holiday you'll never forget!

Amazon

My Review

Adelaide Smith quit her job at Common Grounds Coffee to complete her law degree. Things change when an official letter arrives from Moldavia including a check for air travel to visit her father, the King. Adelaide's mother never told her who her father was.

Her arrival in Moldavia brings her joy, but heartache soon follows. A Royal Christmas is a magical Christmas read full of surprises, and deception. You will get caught up in the emotions of Adelaide as she discovers things aren't what they appear to be. All the characters were well-developed and I connected with them right away.

I thoroughly enjoyed the inspirational and uplifting storyline filled with faith, strength, and love. It's a story that you will remember. Another great read from Melody. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from Revell & Netgalley and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Review of He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox

Uncovering long-held family secrets may sting at first--but the result can be sweeter than honey

Beekeeper Beckett Walsh is living her dream, working alongside her father in their apiary until his untimely death sends her world into a tailspin. She suddenly finds she must deal with a new part owner of the family business--one who is looking to sell the property. Beck cannot fathom why her father would put her into the position to lose everything they built together.

When Callie Peterson is named in the trust of a man she's never heard of, she's not sure what to do. Her fledgling business has just taken wing and her mother has reentered her life asking for help getting into rehab for her lifelong substance abuse issues, making Callie's financial situation rather . . . precarious. She's sure she has no right to someone else's farm, but the money from the sale could solve her problems and give her the stability she's always craved.

As these two women navigate their present conundrum, they will discover a complex and entangled past full of secrets--and the potential for a brighter future for both of them.

Amazon

My Review

He Should Have Told the Bees is much more than a story about a woman beekeeper. It is about secrets, deception, healing, family, and forgiveness.

The characters are compelling and their strengths, weaknesses, and even addiction made the story come to life for me. Part of the story is heartbreaking but the pages show that with trust, faith, and healing there is hope and a sense of being more than they ever thought they could be.

Fern was one of my favorite characters. She was mischievous but at the same time a ray of sunshine and I enjoyed seeing her growth through the story.

If you only read one story this year, I truly hope it will be this one. So many twists to the story that pull at your heartstrings but leave you feeling uplifted and inspired at the end.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and a positive review was not required. All my opinions are my own.

Path to Grace by Cheri Swalwell

 

 

About the Book

Book: Path to Grace

Author: Cheri Swalwell

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction

Release Date: October 20, 2022

Everyone knows that Ariana does not get rejected.

Used to getting her own way, Ariana grew up having her daddy wrapped around her little finger—and he still is. As an adult, she goes through life expecting that all men will give into her whims. When the one man she sets her sights on won’t give her the time of day, Ariana is truly baffled.

Matt avoids Ariana whenever possible. The young woman has no way of knowing that she reminds Matt of his mother and the heartbreaking memories that he worked hard to bury. If Matt has his way, there won’t ever be a reason to discuss the issue.
But when Ariana’s life is turned upside down, and rumors about Matt could destroy everything that he’s worked so hard to achieve, it will take a heavenly amount of grace to prevent history from repeating itself. Will Matt and Ariana accept God’s plan for their lives?

If you like wholesome fiction with a faith-filled message, explore the Path to Grace, the fifth book in the heartwarming Redemption of Green Pines series today. Each book can be read on its own, but they’re best enjoyed when you read them as a full series!

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Ariana, raised by a father that only thought of status and wealth, is kicked out when her father finds out she is pregnant. Ariana moves into the House of Grace for expectant mothers, expecting to find judgment and is not happy being there; instead she finds friendship, grace, and love.

I loved the underlying message of God's grace. The author's way of weaving God's love comes through the storyline in a natural way. The characters all had many layers and lots of lessons to learn. Even with the delicate nature of pregnancy, the author handled it well, an I loved the story of Ariana and Matt's relationship.

I look forward to the next installment in the series. Highly recommended.

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

 

About the Author

Cheri Swalwell is a Christ follower who thoroughly enjoys her calling to be a wife, mother, writer, podcaster, and speaker, in that order. Cheri loves to encourage people through her fiction series and many nonfiction books including devotionals, Bible studies, and compilation books. Interested in receiving encouragement 365 days a year right in your inbox? Then the JESUS in the EVERYDAY monthly membership is for you! For a full list of books visit www.cheriswalwell.com. Do you like YouTube? Head to JESUS in the EVERYDAY for 5 to 7 minutes of encouragement weekly.

 

More from Cheri

Have you ever thought about how different two siblings’ lives could turn out, even though they were raised by the same parents in the same household? Two sisters, one the middle child and one the baby of the family. One always considered “less than,” the other the golden child … until she’s not.

 

Book 5 in The Redemption of Green Pines series, Path to Grace, shows us what happens when one sister has been favored her whole life, until she falls off the pedestal due to one mistake.

 

Join the community of Green Pines as life unravels for Ariana. Will her siblings rally around her despite how she treated them her whole life, or will she be left on her own to figure out what to do now?

 

If you’d like to read the whole story, I’d suggest you start with Book 1, Adventure’s Invitation, but if you’re simply curious about the differences Wynn and Ariana face, I invite you to start with Book 4, Road to Freedom, and get introduced to Wynn and what her life is like living in the same household as Ariana, her baby sister, and Randy, her big brother. I’m pretty sure it’s nothing like you imagined it would be.

               Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 12

Texas Book-aholic, September 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 14

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 15

The Book Club Network, September 16

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 17 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, September 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 19

Bizwings Book Blog, September 20

For Him and My Family, September 21

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, September 22 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, September 22

Cover Lover Book Review, September 23

Pause for Tales, September 24

Susan K. Beatty, Author, September 25 (Author Interview) 

                Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cheri is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/27de0/path-to-grace-celebration-tour-giveaway

New Release- Wooing Gertrude by Jodie Wolfe

 

Enoch Valentine has given up finding peace for his past mistakes. He throws everything he has into being the new part-time deputy in Burrton Springs, Kansas while maintaining the foreman position at a local horse ranch. But when trouble stirs on the ranch, he questions whether he' s the right man for either job.

Peace has been elusive for most of Gertrude Miller' s life, especially under the oppressiveness of an overbearing mother. She takes matters into her own hands and sends for a potential husband, while also opening her own dress shop. Gertrude hopes to build a future where she' ll find peace and happiness.

Will either of them ever be able to find peace?

Order on Amazon

My Review

Wooing Gertrude is set in 1877, Burrton Springs, Kansas. Gertrude Miller answers an ad as a mail-order bride. She sends her betrothed money to travel to Burrton Springs to become her husband. She is surprised to find out he isn't who she thought he was. Disappointed, she goes ahead and opens up her dress shop hoping for a change. She meets Enoch Valentine who befriends her, but things become complicated from there.

The main characters have many layers. Gertrude and Enoch are both carrying burdens they refuse to turn over to God. Struggling with their faith, their future seems bleak.

The storyline has an unexpected mystery, tension, and lots of suspense from unexpected events. It kept me turning the pages and left me surprised by how everything turned out. I highly recommend this page-turner. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and willingly chose to review it.

The Amish Mother's Secret by Diane Craver

 

 

About the Book

 

Book: The Amish Mother’s Secret

Author: Diane Craver

Genre: Amish Romance

Release Date: December 22, 2022

Sometimes a beautiful miracle comes to you at exactly the wrong time…

Lindsay Prescott is 40 and single when tragedy strikes. Diagnosed with stage 4, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer, her instinct is to right the wrongs in her life. Her unfortunate childhood with an alcoholic, verbally abusive mother drove her to break free in desperation at the age of 17. While working at a hotel along the beach on the East Coast, she met Harris Manning. He took her breath away and she gave herself to him in love.

Harris’ life was already planned out for him by his wealthy parents. Falling for Lindsay had been a dream. However, compelled to wed the woman his parents chose for him, he’d left her to endure a shaky marriage.

Though Harris never knew it, Lindsay found herself pregnant when he left her with no way to care for identical triplets on her own.  When the triplets were five months old, she reconnected with an Amish couple—Katie and Roman Yoder—who were unable to have children. The Yoders adopted Amy and Jenna while Lindsay kept Phoebe. She couldn’t bear to give all three babies away. In the years that followed, Katie worked hard to keep her away from her adopted daughters.

When you let go of a miracle, can you ever capture it again?

After Harris learns his ex-wife intercepted Lindsay’s calls years ago to tell him she was pregnant, he rushes to her side, thrilled to discover he’s a father. But life rarely gives fairytale endings. Revealing the truth may prove more devastating than the hurdles that came before…and all that will surely come after for a woman fighting for her life.

 

Click here to get your copy!

MY REVIEW

The Amish Mother's Secret touched my heart from the beginning. Lindsey, going through Cancer treatments, is lucky to have her daughter, Phoebe to help and give her support. As a single parent since the death of her husband, Lindsey has suffered through lots of challenges. One of them is hiding a secret from her daughter.

I loved the closeness between Lindsey and Phoebe. The storyline ran me through the gamut of feelings. Betrayal, forgiveness, compassion, and second chances are a few of the emotions you will encounter. The author's writing style is easy to read, the descriptions enhanced the story, and the differences between Amish and English living added extra tension to the story. Highly recommended a sweet love story with surprises along the way.

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

 

About the Author

Diane Craver is the author of The Amish Mother’s Secret, Book 1 in The Amish Adoption Series and two popular Amish series, Dreams of Plain Daughters and The Bishop’s Daughters. Diane also writes romantic suspense, inspirational contemporary romance, historical Christian fiction and women’s fiction. Her emotional reads receive great reviews. Although she started her career writing non-fiction, she switched to writing fiction. She wanted to keep her sanity in the midst of having a large family. Writing fiction with quirky and memorable characters gave her the escape she needed from her noisy household. Diane met her husband Tom while teaching at an orphanage. They enjoy their life in southwestern Ohio, and have been blessed with six children and several grandchildren. Two adult daughters with Down syndrome live with Tom and Diane. Her family is supportive of her writing career, and her favorite vacation is going to the beach with them. She gives thanks daily to God for her wonderful blessings, including being in remission from Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

 

More from Diane

When I started writing The Amish Mother’s Secret, a friend had been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I decided to have my main character, Lindsay, to have the same type of cancer. I used many of the details of his illness for my character’s cancer. Then an unbelievable thing happened to me. I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I never expected to have cancer with none in my family history.

It was hard telling our children I was diagnosed with stage four cancer. It was stage four because it was found in many of my lymph nodes throughout my body. I rewrote the details in my manuscript so that my character reflected the type of lymphoma I had. Also, after the six months of chemo, I started two years of maintenance therapy. My oncologist said doing this therapy treatment during remission could reduce the risk of recurrence and improve the cure rate for me.

While doing my months of chemo treatments, I received thoughtful gifts, devotional books, two prayer blankets and cards with wonderful Bible verses from friends and relatives. Feeling God’s love through them helped me to get through a difficult time in my life. I appreciated all the prayers said for me to recover from cancer. I have been blessed with an awesome support group of readers.

During this stressful time, I heard from agent Lesley Sabga of The Seymour Agency.  She wanted to represent me and told me how much she loved my voice. I hadn’t been looking for an agent so it was a wonderful blessing to sign with Lesley. I had planned on The Amish Mother’s Secret to be a standalone novel, but Lesley acquired a three-book contract for me with Vinspire Publishing. I enjoyed writing about the two mothers, Lindsay and Katie, in Book One, The Amish Mother’s Secret. Both mothers were from two different worlds, but their love never wavered for their children. The second book in my Amish Adoption series, An Unexpected Gift, continues the adoption theme and is also available for purchase. Book three will release next year.

               Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 9

Texas Book-aholic, September 10

Mary Hake, September 10

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 11 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 12

Connie’s History Classroom, September 13

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 14

Splashes of Joy, September 14

Bizwings Book Blog, September 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 16

The Book Club Network, September 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 18

Vicky Sluiter, September 18

For Him and My Family, September 19

Cover Lover Book Review, September 20

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, September 21

Books I’ve Read, September 22 

                 Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/27a70/the-amish-mother-s-secret-celebration-tour-giveaway