Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Welcome Christian Author, Marshalee Patterson Q & A




Marshalee Patterson has loved reading since she could walk. Growing up without a television sparked in her a love for reading and the world of imagination. She wrote her first novella-Predestined Love after traveling to Italy and wanted to write a romance novel about it, but then left it on her computer, saying when it's time to publish it, the Lord would open that door for her.

It was five years later, that the Lord led her to another author- Claudette Brady Beckford, who guided her to the world of self-publishing. Since then the Lord has been teaching her a lot about spiritual warfare and understanding dreams and their importance. This led to her second book, a Christian Romance Thriller- 'The Path of the Chosen Warrior,' filled with lots of action about the demonic and the supernatural realm.

Her main focus of writing is Contemporary Christian Romance/family books which will uplift, encourage, and teach readers how to walk right and also how to pray, through the lives of everyday characters. Marshalee loves dancing salsa and the tranquillity of nature.

She is a proud Jamaican.

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                                                                 Q & A


Tell me about yourself.

I am a Christian author who writes to uplifts readers and helps them see God in their situations and offers solutions through my characters to help them overcome the very thing they see the characters go through.

 What got you started writing? 

In 2003, I went to Italy for vacation and came back with an idea for a romantic story and wanted to write about it.

 How did you come up with your book idea? 

The idea for this book came from an image the Lord gave me of seeing a woman sitting at a train station alone with a sad countenance.  

What inspired you? 

The Holy Spirit is the one who comes up with the ideas for each story and for this particular book, He used my deceased husband as the inspiration and also dealing with grief.

What was the most difficult part of writing this book?

That would be reliving the pain of losing my husband to write the emotional first ten chapters. 

How did you overcome this difficulty? 

I focused on all the readers that are going through what my character did and knew how she dealt with the situation would help them and that got me through.

Who is your favorite character from the novel? 

That would be Olivier—he was the one MEG, the main character had as support through the trauma and was like a father figure to her.

 What about them makes them your favorite?
He reminds me of that special person we all need in our lives to help steer us right.

Do your characters (or message) ever seem to have a life of their own or agenda? 

YES, they do, I don’t usually write knowing how my stories will end. I can’t write with everything already planned out for my characters or the story and because of that, I’m like the reader discovering as I write.

How has writing this book impacted you personally? 

Since I began writing, each book often has a way of teaching me valuable lessons that impact my lives which often have me in awe looking back and thinking I wrote them and then I feel blessed knowing that I was only an instrument by the holy spirit to write the stories.

How many books do you currently have published? 

At present, I have three published books with another in the editing process at the moment.

What genres? 

I write Christian Fiction— some with romance, and others with both romance and spiritual warfare.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

Well for me that would be creating stories that I know will bless and impact readers in a positive way. 

Your least favorite?

I think for me this would be the struggle to have readers find my books at times—marketing for authors as always been a challenge but like most, I think I am overcoming it.


What would you tell a beginning author who wants to publish but doesn’t believe he/she has enough talent? 

Listen to your inner voice/holy spirit and trust him. Not fear or others. When others criticize you, use it to improve your skills—not to give up.



"Sitting at the Saint-Roch Train Station with tears in her eyes, Meg contemplated where her life had gone wrong. She was at a point in her life where she felt abandoned by God after the last remaining person who truly loved her, died.

Now with a baby on the way, she had begun to lose hope that the future, she knew the Lord had promised her was never meant for her.

With a gentle tap on her shoulder, her gaze turned to meet that of Derek’s, the kind stranger whose smile brought warmness into her heart. “Was he sent to fulfill God’s promise in my life?” she thought.

With assured faith, she followed him as he led her away, trusting that God had not forsaken her. Now she felt content to allow God to have his way in her life and totally surrender all to him."




Other Books by Marshalee

Predestined Love is a story of surrendering to God's perfect will for your life." ********
“This short Inspirational Christian Novella is an endearing story about love and faith; the assurance that God answers prayers, that despite trials and tribulations and suffering, one’s faith in the love and power of God will ultimately bear fruit and bring triumph over adversity.”
Traveling to Italy was Maria's way of escaping her past and beginning a new life. After being used and treated as cheap by men because of poor judgment, Maria prayed and left her fate in God's Hands to find her the perfect match.
When God answered Maria’s prayer and sent her His choice, someone from her past came to claim what he thought was his.

Will he succeed in ruining the future Maria had trusted God to secure for her

View on Amazon


“A story of Spiritual warfare: the perpetual fight of good over evil in a paranormal setting with demonic forces attempting to overcome the Christians in the community.
This story draws you in and holds your attention as you want to know what the final outcome will be. Who will triumph? Will the evil forces of Abaddon defeat the Christians? Will Ruth and Joshua escape from Sodom Shadows and return to their home in Shiloh City?

Suspense, action, intrigue, and romance, in this story, which takes the reader to the realm where the struggle for supremacy takes place.”
Staring into the eyes of the man she loved, Ruth knew coming home was where she would make her fondest memories with her beloved Joshua. She was looking forward to their journey together as man and wife.

All their plans were interrupted when they were caught up in a terrible storm, and their boat crashed in an unknown area.

Although they were lost, it seemed as if destiny had brought them to this unfamiliar territory, and until they discovered what it was and fulfilled it, their future together would be put on hold.

View on Amazon

Review of Chasing After Destiny by Emma Easter





Like the characters in her stories, Emma Easter juggles a range of identities.

In the low-income community where she works, Easter is known as a family medicine physician who treats patients of all ages and backgrounds, including those who've been historically under-served by the healthcare system. But it's less known that she's also experienced life on the opposite end of the stethoscope as a cancer patient, now in remission.

College friends see her as an accomplished musician, having studied and mastered five classical instruments--but behind closed doors, she's just as comfortable rocking an air guitar to Creed. And when she isn't giving her heart, soul, and sanity to her three young children she's indulging in her most secret identity of all: meeting new characters, crafting fresh plots, and exploring every corner of her imagination.

Across all these different roles, one cohesive thread has tied everything together: her faith and love of Jesus Christ.

You can reach her at EmmaEaster.com



A STORY OF FORGIVING THOSE WHO HAVE DONE WRONG AND BRINGING LIGHT TO THE DARKNESS – THE DESTINY SERIES IS CHRISTIAN ROMANCE, SUSPENSE AND INTRIGUE AT ITS BEST.


Sofia Ross thinks her boyfriend, George Davidson — a married man — is about to finally ask her to marry him and leave his wife. But instead, he tells her he must break up with her. She not only loses the man she has loved for the past five years, but also her job, her Tucson penthouse, and her car, all which he provided.

Not knowing what else to do, Sofia tries to end her life with a handful of pills, luckily her friend Edith is there, and Sofia survives. But the depression resurfaces, and Sofia attempts again right as her friend Lily is calling. Sofia explains how she feels empty and has nothing to live for. Lily tells her Jesus will give her the love she is looking for.

Eventually, a supernatural peace settles over Sofia, and she knows that whatever has happened, God will help her through it.




My Review

An immigrant whose fiancĂ© dumped him a week before their wedding, an American in love with a married man who dumps her.  A start of a complicated relationship. Both have moved away from God.

The story is about confusion, longing for true love, and forgiveness. The characters were well-developed and relatable.  I enjoyed getting to know Jude and was glad to see Sofia in book 4 and how she grew.

There were a few twists and turns I didn’t see coming and the book ending was quite different than I expected. Overall, another good read from the author.

I was provided with an ARC from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.  All opinions are my own.

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

New Series on Preorder- The Librarians of Willow Hollow







Book 1
Strands of Hope

Journey with a horseback librarian into the hidden crevices of Kentucky mountains. Feel her pain as she struggles not only to barely make ends meet but as she also attempts to connect the pieces of her own life while her mom continues to make selfish decisions.

Lena Davis is the daughter her mom never wanted.

But she survived. Through stories. Because books didn’t judge. Books weren’t angry she was alive. Books never expected her to be anything but who she was.

As she grows up, her beloved library becomes her true home. So when the library is designated part of President Roosevelt’s Packhorse Library Project, Lena is determined to get the job of bringing books to highlanders, believing she’ll finally be free of her mom forever.

But earning the trust of highlanders is harder than she imagined, and her passion for books might not be enough to free her from her chains.

The Packhorse Library Project was part of President Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration to encourage education in the remote parts of the mountains. “A Strand of Hope” is a historical fiction novella based on real events but set in the fictional town of Willow Hollow in the Appalachian mountains.




Book 2
I Love to Tell the Story

Her heart is in the right place…
Bored with her life in Castle Town, Montana, Lillian Sullivan follows her friend’s suggestion and joins the horseback librarian program in rural Kentucky. Not only does she anticipate sharing her love of books, but she also wants to spread the gospel among the mountain people.

However, Willow Hollow presents her with one trouble after another and she struggles to step outside her shyness to share the gospel.

What will it take for Lillian to share her love of the Best Story? Can the power of the gospel overcome the shyness of her own heart?



Book 3
Hearts on Lonely Mountain

Can two lonely people find more than a fleeting friendship or will a prejudiced town keep them apart?

When Ivory Bledsoe left the city to minister to the people of the rural mountain town of Willow Hollow, she never expected to be shunned rather than welcomed. Seeing the town as a lost cause, she’s eager to return home, but when the bridge leading out of town is washed away during a flood, she finds herself stranded in the last place she wants to be.

Ben Thrasher was content with his quiet life until he met the new librarian. He can’t help but be drawn to the friendly and lively Ivory Bledsoe, despite her being at the center of the town’s latest superstition. It’s only a matter of time until she captures his heart, turning his world upside down in the process.

Has Ivory gotten God’s plan for her all wrong or is there still a way she can serve these people? And can Ben ask her to stay in a place where so few are willing to embrace her?


Book 4
The Secret Place of Thunder

The mountains have imprisoned her long enough...
Edna Sue O’Connell came back to the Kentucky hills out of duty and can’t wait for the chance to escape again. Her work as a horseback librarian in rural Appalachia provides enough income for her invalid father to survive in the midst of the Great Depression, but it affords her with little else.

When an opportunity arises for Edna to take on an additional book delivery area, she spies a glimmer of hope that she might find a way out of Willow Hollow after all… and that she might actually make something of her life apart from the tragedy that has filled it thus far.

But the new routes give Edna more than she ever bargained for. Slowly, she finds that the mountains contain many valuable secrets – if she has the grit to meet them.



Monday, July 27, 2020

Welcome, Margaret Daly to the Bizwings Blog





Margaret Daley, a USA Today’s Bestselling author of over 110 books (five million plus sold worldwide), has been married for over forty-nine years and is a firm believer in romance and love. When she isn’t traveling or being with her two granddaughters, she’s writing love stories, often with a suspense/mystery thread and corralling her cats that think they rule her household. 

To find out more about Margaret visit her website at 


Social Media Links

Link to sign up for my newsletter on front page of website



Kidnapping. 
Evil. 
Redemption.


When two young girls go missing, Dr. Emma Reichs, a child psychologist who worked with the two teens, turns to Brody Taylor, an ex-Green Beret, who founded the Pals Center, a safe haven for kids, to help her find the girls. Brody along with his retired military canine, Charlie, is determined to find the people behind the kidnapping of young people in his community.


In the midst of the search for Piper and Maria, more children are taken. Brody and Emma realize they’re fighting against a ticking bomb to find the teens before they disappear for good. Their partnership brings them closer and awakens feelings for each other, but can they stay alive long enough to end the nightmare for the kids and still have a future together?








Sunday, July 26, 2020

Inspired Artistry Blog Tour & Giveaway by Pamela Poole


About the Book



Book:  Inspired Artistry

Author: Pamela Poole

Genre:  Non-fiction, Devotional

Release Date: March 30, 2020


Spirit-filled creative expression is an outreach for Christians to be ambassadors of the Kingdom.

This insightful devotional explores how the imprint of our Creator on all mankind makes it natural for Christians to embrace their unique gifts. Through Scripture, true stories, prayer, and study questions, readers will explore how every person born has a meaningful gift to contribute joy and beauty in the world. Led by the Holy Spirit, believers can live higher than the corrupting influences that distort Christ’s intent for our personal Inspired Artistry.

The pages of Inspired Artistry contain delightful illustrations and pages for readers who journal to write their own “Inspired Musings.”


Click here to get your copy!


MY REVIEW

As an artist, this devotional hit home for me and deeply touched me. I've always felt that my artistic ability was a gift from God. The author encourages the reader to dig down deep and find the creative talents God has given us and use it to bring beauty into the world to honor HIM. She reminds us that creativity has many forms and each form is unique to the person. To connect with God in a personal way brings that out in us.

The devotional is unique and wonderfully written. It speaks from years of the author's experiences and her insightful words are backed up with scripture. Some of my most loved scriptures were included. A very encouraging and uplifting devotional with lessons in ethics.

I loved her addition of drawings which can be used for coloring. I highly recommend the book and thoroughly enjoyed it.

I received an updated version of the book from Celebrate Lit. and voluntarily choose to review it. My opinions are my own

About the Author


Pamela Poole’s love for the South inspires all her books and paintings. She and her husband Mark currently live in Raleigh, NC, but she’s hoping to get back home to the Lowcountry of SC someday.

If making her fictional stories public was a step of faith, writing her first devotional was a leap! Believing all Christians have a sphere of influence, she wanted to be certain that sharing her views was a process grounded in Scripture. Pamela believes nothing is wasted for a child of God. Using examples learned through challenging experiences, she reveals accounts of true events that only her family knew about before. Years of teaching art, teaching Bible Studies, leadership roles, membership in guilds and associations, mentoring, painting, exhibiting, and writing books has provided her with a wealth of hard-won lessons to share.

Pamela lives life loving Jesus and her family as a wife, mother, and Gigi, and she is blessed with true friends. She is a member of the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society and PaintNC. Readers and art enthusiasts alike can enjoy her Youtube channel for painting demos, art history lessons, and projects, and peeks into an author’s life. Her blog can be found on her art and publishing websites. Her illustrations for FREE coloring pages are her contribution to a cause she cares about, the healing that happens through art, and they can be downloaded on her websites. To enjoy the latest content, sign up for her newsletters and follow Pamela Poole, Artist and Author, and Southern Sky Publishing on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


More from Pamela


“I don’t have a talented bone in my body.”

“I can’t even make stick people.”

“I’ve never taken art classes.”

As an artist, teacher, author, and craft lover, I’ve heard statements like these all my life. My favorite is when my art students came to the first class saying, “I can’t even draw a straight line!” Flashing them my most engaging smile, I would respond brightly, “Me, either! I always use a ruler.”

Every person on the planet has a special gift of creativity. It is the stamp of our Maker, in whose image we are made. From the opening verses of the Bible, creativity is the first attribute that God reveals about Himself to mankind.

Christians have talents, but they do not think of them as creativity or as having any value in their faith or outreach to the world. Inspired Creativity—Embracing the Creative Calling is my first devotional, written to encourage my sisters and brothers in Christ to discover and develop their unique gifts. I base the book on the authority of Scripture, and I use personal stories to apply the biblical principles to real situations.

Many people shy away from their talents because of the rejection and ridicule they could face from those whose tastes run differently. I understand this well and have the scars to prove it after decades of participating in professional organizations, art exhibitions, classes, art galleries, and the online book market. Readers can look at any author’s reviews and see they will range from mean and scathing to helpful and glowing. By publishing this devotional, I have set myself up for criticism by sharing what I’ve learned and how it all fits into a biblical Christian worldview. Knowing how vulnerable creative Christians feel, I point out in this book that if we are abiding in Christ and following His lead, our work is inspired as both a healing, spiritual growth activity for our souls and something He may call us to share. We must get past our dread and remember we work to please Jesus, not mankind. Since when did Christ’s enemy not attack those who talk about Him or reach out in His name?

When writing Inspired Artistry, I faced a few scary moments when relating experiences in my creative life that only my husband and son knew had happened. But nothing is wasted when believers walk with Christ, and I obeyed the tug on my heart and the spiritual certainty that I traveled those roads for such a time as this. It is my prayer that readers will discover and embrace their creative gifts for their role as ambassadors of the Kingdom to come!

Note to readers who color and journal: the print version of this devotional has coloring and journaling pages.





                              Blog Stops

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Pamela is giving away the grand prize package of Inspired Proverbs Coloring Journal, Tin of Colored Pencils, and a print copy of Inspired Artistry – Embracing the Creative Calling!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

 Click the link below to enter.

Saturday, July 25, 2020

Healing Their Hearts Blog Tour & Giveaway by Cleoptatra Margot

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?

My main hope for my readers is that they will feel whole and refreshed after reading Healing Their Hearts. It isn’t just a fluffy story because it does deal with fostering a child, possibly past secrets, and family struggles, but it is a light read because I love including humor, faith, and fun into my novels.


With his back pressed snug up against the wall in the narrow hallway, Mark knocked on the door. “Lainee? I need you to respond to me. I won’t hurt you, I promise. My name is Mark. Remember me? Can you say something for me?”

The three-year-old remained silent. Mark tipped his head back against the ramshackle wall and sent up a silent prayer. So far, he wasn’t getting anywhere, and they’d arrived on the scene well over an hour ago.

A neighbor had reported that Steve was being belligerent, and Brenda had been spotted with a fresh purchase of booze. Though both had denied it, the last straw had been drawn, and that was the end of it.


Remembrancy - Review

"...at its heart, this book is about family—the family you’re born with and the one who surrounds you when you marry and the ones you work and live the day in and day out with.

Overall, this sweet read is one that left me feeling happy and hopeful and there’s plenty of potential for more to come with the residents of Believe."


“Believe’s biggest weekend is upon us, ya’ll,” Noah declared, gesturing to the normal amount of traffic on Main Street. “As you can see by all this traffic.”

Liam paused with his paint roller dangling off the ground, squinting into the early morning sun. “You do realize it’s just you and me listening, right? Also, quit yakking and start brushing. This needs to dry sooner than later.”

“Maybe you should’ve painted the giant red BerryPepper smack dab in the middle of Main Street a little sooner than the Friday of BerryPepper days.”


Hallie Reads - Excerpt

“I’d like to be able to talk to all five of you, but this will do for now. First of all, as your father, I’m proud of all of you. Liam, you impress me every single day with your bravery and loyalty to both your family and your job. You work hard to support your wife and children, and I’m proud of you for it. To my youngest sons, I’m impressed by your drive and devotion to this ranch. It’s not a small undertaking. Luke, I’ve seen you come a long way in the past year, and I have no doubt that you’ll be a wonderful father come September. I can see how happy you make your wife, and that’s all the indication I need to know how loved your daughter will be. Noah, you’ve had a lot thrown at you these past months—a little bad with a lot of good. You’re a hardworking young man, and you’re going to be a fine husband. All I’m saying is that I’m proud of you. All of you.”

“Aw, Dad.” Noah offered a goofy grin. “Who knew Allen McKay was such a softie?”

“Your mother,” Dad teased. “Why do you think she married me?”



It was evenings like this that made Emma wish Liam had a different career of choice. Yes, he was safe at home and they were safe up here at the river, but she longed for her husband to be here enjoying the weekend at the river. Playing cards, sitting around the campfire, going for a family pontoon ride at sunset.

But then her thoughts would rationalize because she knew how much he loved his police work. And even with lonely hours, she would never truly wish for him to work elsewhere.

Emma quietly eased out of the bed she was sharing with Ava, grabbed her phone and a blanket, and slipped out of the trailer into the cool evening air. The breeze had died down to nothing and locusts and crickets created an ambience of night sounds as Emma tiptoed down to the pontoon, the flood light illuminating her way.



"If you’re looking for a sweet story that makes you smile, and brings hope, then this is the book for you. All the characters are relatable, and I felt as if I could become friends with any of them. Even the town itself was one I could find myself either visiting, or possibly even living there!"


Eva didn’t reply, her gaze falling to her coffee mug. She couldn’t really talk, because it was rare that she let people in. Even simply talking to Mark was way outside of her comfort zone.

“I’m sorry if I—”

“What? No.” She bit her lip. “I just don’t really—I’m not accustomed to people, um, caring about me. Not that you, you know, care about me. I mean—that doesn’t…” She finally stammered to a stop, her cheeks hot.

A hand on hers made her look up. “I do care about you, Eva, contrary to what you might think,” he said softly. “So does everybody in this town, whether you’ve been here forever or not. And to prove just how much, may I ask you out for supper Saturday night?”


Splashes of Joy - Review

"I really did enjoy this sweet family story. And I love and appreciate the [way] this author weaves the Christian life and faith into her characters. The wedding scene was so sweet it brought tears, and it was just a joy to read a book like this about family. If you love a sweet family story set in a neat little town, this is one you need to read."
Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“You like her.” Sam pointed her spoon at him. “You like Evangeline!”

He let his shirt fall into place and crossed to the freezer. “You’re off duty and it’s past your bedtime. Stop throwing accusations around.”

“Mark Bryant MacLaughlin, you’re in denial.” Sam shut the freezer door before he could grab his ice cream. “Admit it. You. Like. Evangeline. Taylor!”

“Could you not yell in my face?” Using his height to his advantage, he blocked her with his shoulders, then grabbed the butter pecan gelato. “I didn’t say I like her, and I haven’t given you cause to think that. Now, if you could excuse me, I’d like to enjoy my ice cream before work.”



"Healing Their Hearts is a light, gentle read that follows 4 main characters through the ups and downs of daily life in a small Nebraska town. . . . The theme of family – the circle you’re born into & the circle you intentionally gather around you – is sweetly presented, with a maturity beyond the author’s years. This is the kind of book that leaves you with hope in humanity and confidence in the grace of God, as well as a smile on your face and in your heart."


"Healing their Hearts is a story full of friendships, family, and more. Liam and Emma was an amazing couple. . . . I loved all the children in the book. . . also a lot of surprises with Eva’s family."


“Good.” Mark set his things down and took the bait from Lainee. “Okay, Lainee, can you wait for a second while I help Eva bait her hook?”

“That be ’kay.” Lainee pointed to a white butterfly. “Fly!”

“Pretty butterfly, huh?” Eva asked. “Just as pretty as Lainee.”

Lainee giggled and squatted down to examine a rock several feet back from the creekbank. Mark kept his eye on her as he tied a hook onto Eva’s fishing line, then opened the container of bait from the gas station.

“Under normal circumstances, I would require you to bait your own hook,” he told Eva. “That was Dad’s rule growing up—for boys and girls. But because of your wrist, I’ll make an exception.”



“Miss Taylor.”

Eva spun around, swallowing when she looked up into the face of Mark MacLaughlin. “Hey.”

Really? That’s all you can say?

The corners of his gray-blue eyes crinkled, and he slipped his capable hands into the pockets of his slacks. “I was hoping I’d see you here today.”

“You were?” she squeaked. This time she didn’t even bother to chastise herself. She was working hard enough trying to keep the flush out of her face.


"I enjoyed reading this story with all the friendships and love. I like the town of Believe. The community is close and I love the way they have faith.

The characters are many and each on is well-developed and easy to love. It is also easy to feel their emotions. . . . I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy good romance and friendships."


I don’t know how I’m going to do it, bro.” Luke dropped his forehead against the window. “Katie is going to be a tiny little human and I’m supposed to, well, basically prevent her from dying?”

Liam’s brow furrowed and he leaned around the cab of his truck. “Where did that come from?”

“Liam, it’s, what? June eleventh? That means we’re about three and a half months from Rae’s due date. What if I fail?” His face paled. “Would you charge me with murder?”

“Nope. I’d have Cam do it.”

Luke threw a sponge at him. “That’s not funny!”


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

Healing Their Hearts

(Faith to Love, #6)

By Cleopatra Margot
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 302  Pages
June 21, 2020

After spring's many trials, Knox County Sheriff Liam McKay is ready for a season of restoration. He needs time to grieve the loss of his grandmother and work on becoming a better husband and father. Liam learned the hard way that life is fragile, and he doesn't want to miss out on any precious moments.

Emma McKay loves her role as a wife and mother. After she lost her parents, the McKay family became her saving grace. Being married to a police officer brings both challenges and adventures into her life, though, and when something hits on a more personal level, will her past be brought into the light?

Officer Mark MacLaughlin is motivated by two things: his family and his job. Add a beautiful stranger to the mix, and Mark can't help but want to get to know her better. But when he takes on fatherhood for a three-year-old girl, he has to learn how to blur the lines between his personal and professional life too.

Evangeline Taylor was on the way to confront her past, until her plans came to a grinding halt. Now injured and stranded in a tiny Nebraska town, Eva's heart opens up. The town, the people, and maybe one handsome police officer in particular help her to heal...but will they be enough to make her stay?

(Affiliate link included.)

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to an Amazon affiliate link.)

About the Author


Cleopatra Margot resides with her family and their golden retriever in small town, rural Nebraska. Inspiration for her novels comes from both real life + fictional characters and storylines in her brain. The town of Believe is based on her own hometown, but with embellishments. She and her two younger siblings are homeschooled, and enjoy traveling with their parents and the dog. When she’s not writing, Cleopatra enjoys Bible journaling, time with family and friends, playing cards, being outside (when it’s not subfreezing temps), laughing, singing, and enjoying life.


Tour Giveaway


1 winner will receive a signed paperback copy of Healing Their Hearts by Cleoptatra Margot, a vinyl sticker, bookmark, and free shipping coupon (for a future purchase through the author)

US only
Ends July 29, 2020

Grab Our Button!

How Sweet It Is Tour & Giveaway by Robin Lee Hatcher- 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:

(With its own giveaway through July 27th.)

Launch - Author Interview

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

First, I hope readers will find a sweet romance at the center of the story. I enjoy writing about two people who don’t want to fall in love but who fall in love anyway. Second and most important, I pray that readers will take one step closer to God because of something they find in How Sweet It Is.

All-of-kind Mom - Review

"Another story about some broken people finding their way.
A story about trusting, forgiveness, and love. . . . Robin Lee Hatcher writes sweet romances that show us God’s love. This book is an excellent [example] of this."

Simply Susan - Review

"Robin Lee Hatcher’s books have always been an automatic read for me. Her Legacy of Faith series has certainly been very heartwarming and poignant, this book pouring many blessings into my heart. . . . So many precious nuggets were found in this book. Highly recommended."


"When you pick up a Robin Lee Hatcher book you know it's going to be good! . . . Hatcher has done a nice job in tying the past with the present together once again. . . . I highly recommend this book because you'll not want to put it down until you finish. This book will leave you feeling full and satisfied after a good read. Kind of like a wonderful dessert."

Hearts & Scribbles - Excerpt

“Thanks. You too. How are the wedding plans?”

“That’s why I’m here. Holly and I were going over wedding-cake ideas and looking at all the bride magazines I could find.”

Jed took a half step back. “Sounds like I’m intruding after all.”

“No, you’re not. We’re done. I was about to head home.” Trixie tipped her head slightly to one side.

Jed had the sudden feeling that he was being measured, studied, put under a microscope. Not a comfortable sensation.



"This novel was a nice way to round out the Legacy of Faith series. I believe that it can be read and understood without reading the first two books in the series. However, I feel that I had a greater appreciation for the historical portion of the novel because I have read the entire series.

I thought that Jed and Holly’s relationship growth throughout the story felt realistic."

ReviewsByErin - Review

"There was a beautiful layer of faith presented, and hope for those facing family conflicts. I can imagine a lot of people will enjoy this as a light read. I would highly recommend reading the whole series to get the full impact of Andrew's story."


"I loved this book! It made me want to bake a million things! . . . The family aspect was also super interesting! If you are looking for a great contemporary, then I suggest this one!"


"The story is one of healing and love and family and belonging. You go on the journey with Holly and Jed, two people who are dealing with their own set of struggles of trust, hurt and wanting something more. Along with their story, is the story of Jed's grandfather, Andrew. Popping back and forth from present day to Grandpa Andrew's day, the story of family and legacy is told. It was a heartwarming story that slowly took you from one place to the next with each chapter."


"How Sweet It Is is just as sweet as its title suggests! It’s a clean, inspirational romance that will challenge you to trust that God has your future in His hands. . . . The characters and the love that develops between them are very believable. But I think that the best part of the book is watching God’s plan unfold. . . . I have always loved Robin Lee Hatcher’s books, and How Sweet It Is is no exception."


"How Sweet It Is was a book that had me hooked from the very first word. I love reading books that connect with two time periods.

I loved Andrew and Helen’s story that was set in 1969 to 1970. They had such a fantastic love story. . . . The characters were so real to me. I could visualize what they were doing."


"As can be expected, How Sweet It Is uses Andrew’s bible to once again bring a family member back to their walk of faith. . . . It was encouraging to read about how seeming coincidences actually became evident as the obvious leading of the Lord.

A sweet romance, How Sweet It Is was easy to read and enjoyable. Although filled with scripture references, the faith element was not intrusive and did not detract from the story."


Pause for Tales - Review

"There was many beautiful lessons and truths in this story that pulled at my heartstrings. I enjoyed watching each of the people grow into better versions of themselves as they took away lessons from their ancestor Andrew Henning. This was a beautiful story of family and their legacy of faith and what that can mean for generations."

Splashes of Joy - Review

"I have read many of Robin Lee Hatcher’s books and love them all, and was excited to read and review this one. There is so much in this story, twists and turns that surprise you, making it a wonderful and entertaining read. If you enjoy a good clean Christian fiction, you don’t want to miss How Sweet It Is. Because Jed and Holly’s story truly is a really sweet story."


"This is a really nice love story, within a love story. . . . The characters were all portrayed well and very endearing. Although this [drama] was very predictable, it was very well written and inspiring."


“Holly, you may be older than me, but you don’t know much about men. Have you noticed the way he looks at you?”

It frightened her, thinking Trixie might be right. It frightened her even more, thinking she wanted her sister to be right. “Don’t.”

“Don’t what?”

“Don’t read too much into it. I . . . I’m not ready.”


"I was elated when I found that I'd get to read the third book of this series. I had read book two at its release last year and was eagerly waiting to read this one. I am happy to say that it lived up to my expectations. . . . All in all, I enjoyed this last book and it was definitely the uplifting read that I had been craving."


"I loved this sweet and delightful read. I adored Jed and Holly. They had perfect chemistry, making the book fun and entertaining. There was a little twist and turn I did not expect which made the story quite unpredictable. . . . I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean and inspiring romance."


"I loved returning to the Hennings family as this book continues to follow Andrew and Helen decades previous, while also catching up with their descendants in the present. The dual timelines are well written and complement each other well. I loved the themes of faith and commitment, as Jed takes time to consider things he hasn't had time for the in the past. A heartwarming and enjoyable read about family, faith, new opportunities, and lasting love."


"This was a sweet romance. I liked the chemistry between Holly and Jed. . . . I would recommend this as a quick clean inspirational romance. This is the third book in the series. It reads well as a stand alone."

Uplifting Reads - Excerpt

His smile made a shiver run down her spine. A pleasurable kind of shiver. One of anticipation. Something flickered in his eyes. Understanding, perhaps. With it, his smile faded. His eyes seemed to darken as he gazed intently into hers. His right hand rose to cup her cheek, the flat of his hand gentle against her skin. She couldn’t help but press into it. She was tempted to close her eyes, but she didn’t want to break the look passing between them. His face drew closer. Was this happening?

“Holly.” He whispered her name, as soft as a caress.

She feared her knees would buckle.
Breathe, she reminded herself. Just breathe.

Hallie Reads - Review

"How Sweet It Is is a sweet story from Robin Lee Hatcher indeed . . . As romance and understanding grow, the present timeline complements Andrew’s one in the past to deliver a valuable message about trusting God through the good and the bad. Readers who have enjoyed the Legacy of Faith thus far are sure to enjoy this book; it is a satisfying conclusion."

Remembrancy - Review

"How Sweet It Is has some light-hearted moments that made me smile and some tougher moments that had me reaching for the tissues. Throughout the book, the message of the power, importance, and comfort of spending time digging into God’s word and building a strong relationship with Him rings through. This is an excellent end to the series, and like the author, I am sad to say goodbye to Andrew and his descendants."


"I love authors who can hook us into the emotional framework of a character immediately after we've started to read their story. With Hatcher, you don't have to wait long, as even within the Prologue of How Sweet It Is - you are rooted into the emotional heartache and anguish of Jed. . . . What I enjoyed the most though - is seeing how two ordinary people who weren't expecting anything extraordinary to happen to them suddenly find themselves in the middle of their own romance story! And that dear hearts, is why I kept turning the pages. . ."

Among the Reads - Review

"Lovers of more serious stories with the light of faith shining through will want to be sure to read How Sweet It Is. And while it easily stands alone, it builds on the events of the previous books of the Legacy of Faith series, so you’ll want to be sure to read them as well."


"As with the previous books in the Legacy Of Faith series, Robin Lee Hatcher presents a sweet romance combined with the reality of the messiness of family. . . . As much as I enjoyed the romance between Holly and Jed . . . it was still the sections with Andrew that I most looked forward to. Across three books he's gone through tragedy and triumph from young manhood to retirement age. He has faced each struggle with love and a faith that is to be admired. . . . It was just as wonderful, and bittersweet, as its predecessors. It is very much a book that you shouldn't miss."


Inside, Pumpkin welcomed her home with a loud meow. After setting aside her purse, Holly picked up the cat and buried her face in the feline’s long hair.

“Sweetheart, what am I going to do?”

Pumpkin answered with a purr.

“You never lie to me, do you? You’re just who you say you are.”

She carried the cat with her into the living room, stopping long enough to turn on the lamp before settling onto the sofa.

“I’m at the end. I don’t know what to do. God, I need Your help. There’s no hope without You.”



"This is the first book I’ve read by author Robin Lee Hatcher. And, it is a wonderful, sweet, darling, inspirational, and beautifully written story for the most part. The short chapters make it an extremely quick read. . .

The biggest message I loved from this book was in practicing grace when dealing with family and friends when it comes to conflicts and reconciliation.

Readers of the previous books in the series as well as fans of the author will more than likely enjoy this story."

I'm Into Books - Spotlight

Peaceful Pastime - Review

"How Sweet It Is the third book in the Legacy of Faith Series by Ms. Hatcher and I will say that it truly is a sweet, endearing novel. I absolutely adore a dual timeline and the author certainly had me engaged in the family saga from start to finish. . . . I thought this book was beautifully crafted with charming characters and one that will make you cry at times and one that will stay with you after you have finished reading it."

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

How Sweet It Is

(Legacy of Faith, #3)

By Robin Lee Hatcher
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 304 Pages
July 14th, 2020 by Thomas Nelson

He lost his brother. She lost her dream. Together, they might find what they’re really looking for.

Holly Stanford is doing the best she can with the restaurant she inherited from her late uncle. But after her fiancé abandons her and the business, Holly regrets having given up her dream of becoming a pastry chef. Now a few bad financial decisions might cost her everything, including her hope for the future.

Jed Henning has done well with his new company despite his prodigal brother’s behavior. When Jed‘s father, the controlling member of the board of directors, temporarily suspends operations until his sons work out their differences, Jed resentfully chases his brother, Chris, to Boise. There Jed rents a basement apartment from Holly and hopes to convince Chris to get his act together before their company collapses.

Unaware that Holly is the one person who can help him get through to Chris, Jed starts the tough work of reconciliation armed with little more than a few family photographs, a stack of old letters, and a Bible that belonged to his great-grandfather, Andrew Henning. And as romance blossoms between Holly and Jed, the story of Jed’s great-grandfather highlights the power of God across the generations and the legacy of a family’s courageous faith.

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About the Author


Robin Lee Hatcher is the author of over 80 novels and novellas with over five million copies of her books in print. She is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. Her numerous awards include the RITA Award, the Carol Award, the Christy Award, the HOLT Medallion, the National Reader’s Choice Award, and the Faith, Hope & Love Reader’s Choice Award. Robin is also the recipient of prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards from both American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. When not writing, she enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, Bible art journaling, reading books that make her cry, watching romantic movies, and decorative planning. Robin makes her home on the outskirts of Boise, sharing it with a demanding Papillon dog and a persnickety tuxedo cat.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a print copy of Cross My Heart by Robin Lee Hatcher
US only
Ends July 29, 2020

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