Friday, December 11, 2020

Snuffed Out Blog Tour & Giveaway by Barbara Cornthwaite

 

 


About the Book

 


Book: Snuffed Out

Author: Barbara Cornthwaite

Genre: Christian cozy mystery

Release Date: July 24, 2020

Picnics can be murder… scenes.

What was supposed to be a romantic picnic at “their spot” turns criminal when Katrina and Todd stumble—almost literally—over a body.

What’s the college chef doing under a bush up in the mountains? Other than being dead, that is.

Who killed him? Why?

All clues point to people who Katrina is certain didn’t do it. Especially the one who ends up dead himself.

Uh, oh.

Thanks to a slow-burning romantic relationship that can’t seem to get past chapter one, and a determination to save her friend from false arrest, Katrina joins Todd again as they riddle out bizarre clues, weed through unlikely suspects, and learn to communicate on a more personal level.

What do you get when you combine literary humor, sweet romance, and a practical helping of faith? A cozy mystery that’ll keep you guessing. Barbara Cornthwaite’s second Wilkester Mystery has everything you want for a cozy read.

Snag Snuffed Out today.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author



Barbara Cornthwaite lives in the middle of Ireland with her husband and children. She taught college English before “retiring” to do something she loves far more; her days are now filled with homeschooling her six children, trying to keep the house tidy (a losing battle), and trying to stay warm in the damp Irish climate (also a losing battle). She is surrounded by medieval castles, picturesque flocks of sheep, and ancient stone monuments. These things are unappreciated by her children, who are more impressed by traffic jams, skyscrapers, and hot weather.

 

Teaser for Snuffed Out

Todd closed the folder with the Franklin case paperwork in it and laid it on top of the stack of folders waiting to be filed. He almost reached for the Delaney case notes again but resisted the impulse. There was no new information in there, and he’d gone over everything a dozen times in the last few days. He had promised Katrina he wouldn’t give up, but without any new leads to pursue, there wasn’t much he could do.

He shook his head, impatient with himself. He’d been doing so well at putting her out of his mind—hadn’t thought of her all day until this moment. Now he’d probably be struggling for the rest of the day.

John Ortega poked his head into Todd’s office.

“Hey, we just got a call from the librarian at Wilkester College about the theft of a manuscript. The chief said either one of us could go, but I thought you might like to take it.”

“Why?”

“Oh, come on,” said John. “You think I’m blind and deaf?”

“It’s no use. Nothing’s going to happen between Dr. Peters and me.”

John leaned up against the door frame and grinned at him. “’Dr. Peters,’ huh? She was ‘Katrina’ for weeks.”

“Well, that was before. Now that I know a relationship isn’t possible, I need to keep my distance.”

“She turned you down?”

“I didn’t ask, but trust me, I know what I’m talking about.”

“Hmm,” John said. “You don’t usually give up on things so easily. Well, do you mind handling this anyway? I’ve got that other robbery case to deal with, and I’m supposed to be interviewing that guy from Tacoma in a couple hours.” Todd hesitated and John added, “She’s an adjunct professor, right? She’s probably not even on campus now, and she certainly won’t be in the library.”

“Oh, okay.” Todd sighed. He pushed back his chair and stood up.

“’Attaboy. Thanks for taking the call.” John turned to go and then looked back. “It will get easier, you know.”

“I know.” As long as I don’t see her again.


MY REVIEW

Snuffed Out is a continuation of the Wilkester Mysteries. Katrina and Todd are thrown together again to solve not one, but two murders at Wilkester College.

The clues aren't coming together very fast and the suspect they have seems to be guilty. Lots of twists and unexpected surprises in the storyline.

The character of Katrina is quirky, playful but apprehensive of her relationship with Todd. She wonders constantly how his feelings for her are progressing. She is faced with insecurity but feels God has chosen Todd for her.

The story is steeped in inspirational and uplifting circumstances within relationships and teaches trust. A wonderful read with everyday situations among friends.

Single parent foster care adds an interesting aspect to the story. I loved the surprise ending and how the author finally uncovered the actual killer. It will surprise you to the end!

I was provided with a complimentary copy and voluntarily choose to review it.

                             Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 28

Texas Book-aholic, November 29

Nancy E Wood, November 29

The Avid Reader, November 30

Genesis 5020, November 30

For the Love of Literature, November 30

Sodbusterliving, December 1

Artistic Nobody, December 1 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 2

deb’s Book Review, December 2

Remembrancy, December 3

Ashley’s Bookshelf, December 3

Splashes of Joy, December 3

Inklings and notions, December 4

21st Century Keeper at Home, December 4

For Him and My Family, December 5

Blogging With Carol, December 5

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 6

Emily Yager, December 6

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 7

Lis Loves Reading, December 7

Labor Not in Vain, December 7

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 8

Mary Hake, December 8

She Lives to Read, December 9

Sara Jane Jacobs, December 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 10

Godly Book Reviews, December 10

SusanLovesBooks, December 10

Daysong Reflections, December 11

Bizwings Blog, December 11

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Barbara is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a paperback 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/103f2/snuffed-out-celebration-tour-giveaway







Wednesday, December 9, 2020

Train to Laramie Blog Tour & Giveaway by Andrew Roth

 

 


About the Book

 


Book: Train to Laramie

Author: Andrew Roth

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release Date: August 30

 

Runaway! Tess flees her lecherous stepfather but takes the wrong train, arriving in Laramie. This end of tracks town bursts with workers building the Transcontinental Railroad, striving to lay the rails that will connect a nation. Threatened by outlaws, Tess is helped by Brett Calloway, a tie cutter for the Union Pacific. But when her stepfather locates her and joins the outlaws terrorizing the region, will her newfound faith in Christ be enough to guide Tess through the danger?

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Train to Laramie is a well-written western story with exciting and well-developed characters that bring the western flavor to life. The storyline varies from the actions of violent men to townspeople just trying to scrape a living to survive.

The story is suspenseful, filled with a sense of faith, and fraught with uncertain times. The main characters have to rely on their faith in God and lots of courage to see them through. Can Tess and Brett, the log cutter who saved her find true happiness in spite of their many struggles? Read this inspirational and inspiring story to find out. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily choose to review it.

 

About the Author



Author of Wildfire For Rose, Andrew Roth joined the U.S. Army before attending California State University, Bakersfield. He taught American History for twenty-two years at the middle school level before beginning his literary career. Married for over thirty years to his wife, Laurie, Andrew has two married adult children and is a proud grandfather. A native of Kansas, Andrew was raised with a deep love and appreciation for history, particularly the Old West. Andrew’s hope is to glorify God and encourage readers through his writing.

 

More from Andrew

The American West has always fascinated me with ruggedly beautiful landscapes and the indomitable spirit of the pioneers.  When building the Transcontinental Railroad, nothing could stop the people from their goal. This innovation and tenacity has shaped our soul, our character as a nation. This deep sense of perseverance encourages me through the tough times we face today.

Dedication

To our God and Creator, able to transform lives and redirect paths. Thank you, Savior.

“. . . And I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt.” –Jeremiah 31:4


                                  Blog Stops

                                                            Texas Book-aholic, November 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 29

Inklings and notions, November 30

For Him and My Family, December 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 2

Sara Jane Jacobs, December 3

Connie’s History Classroom, December 4

Ashley’s Bookshelf, December 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 6

deb’s Book Review, December 6

Artistic Nobody, December 7 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Daysong Reflections, December 8

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, December 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 10

Bizwings Blog, December 10

Betti Mace, December 11


Giveaway



To celebrate his tour, Andrew is giving away the grand prize of a $40 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/103f3/train-to-laramie-celebration-tour-giveaway

Monday, December 7, 2020

Clean Romance for Christmas on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We're excited to be sharing books from 14 clean romance authors with you this
holiday season! Each day a different author and book will be featured. There is
also a gift card giveaway below! If you're a clean romance fan, join us on this tour!

Tour Schedule
(Posts go live on the day they're scheduled.)

December 8th: Launch
December 9th: Krystal M. Anderson - Love's Sweet Return
December 10th: Julie Coulter Bellon - The Marquess Meets His Match
December 11th: Delaney Cameron - Because You Loved Me
December 12th: Rachelle Paige Campbell - Love Overboard
December 13th: Raneé S. Clark - Finding Taylor
December 14th: Chrissy Elliot - Finding Home on Winslow Island 
December 15th: Aspen Hadley - Suits and Spark Plugs
December 16th: Shanna Hatfield - The Christmas Bargain
December 17th: D. E. Malone - Love, Lies and Mistletoe
December 18th: Melissa McClone - Sweet Yuletide
December 19th: Sarah L. McConkie - The Promise of Miss Spencer
December 20th: Kimberley Montpetit - Mostly Dangerous
December 21st: Kate O'Keeffe - Dating Mr. Darcy
December 22nd: Regina Scott - Always Kiss at Christmas 
December 23rd: Grand Finale

Books on Tour


Blogs Participating


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $70 (USD) Amazon eGift Card

Open to US and internationally to those who can receive the gift card through one of Amazon's branches
Ends December 27, 2020

Grab Our Button!

Sunday, December 6, 2020

Grand Finale Blitz: Montana Wedding by Cari Lynn Webb on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

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

Launch - Author Interview

I’m thrilled to be celebrating the release of my new book, Montana Wedding, book 5 in the continuity series, The Blackwell Sisters with Harlequin Heartwarming. Montana Wedding is a sweet contemporary romance that brings together doctor, Georgiana (Georgie) Harrison and rodeo star Zach Evans for an unforgettable Christmas. . .


"Cari Lynn Webb has written another exceptional, page-turning book for clean romance lovers everywhere. . . . I love how Webb gives her characters such unique personalities and “issues” to deal with. Though I’ve never been in Georgie’s shoes or Zach’s saddle, I could feel their hurts coming through the pages of the book. And, yes, I cried. If you get immersed in books like I do, you’ll probably cry too! Those side characters that you might be unfamiliar with will get into your hearts. They’ll make you laugh and cry. Past hurts begin to mend, and that’ll make you cry too! In other words, be sure you’ve got the tissues handy.

I highly recommend this sweet, emotional book."


But a rodeo cowboy could distract her family from her next career move. Stop right there, Georgiana Marie. Her mother’s inflexible tone had always halted Georgie’s unapproved science projects, rendering her theories unproved. “Are you any good?”

“Top ten calf roping and bronc riding in the country.” He shrugged as if being modest about the accomplishment.

Remembrancy - Review

"These two are complete opposites in so many ways, but they make a fantastic team when they put their heads together. And the attraction sizzles from early on even though they’re both intent on fighting it (we all know how well that will turn out).

I also loved all of the holiday cheer from the different trees to the ugly sweaters to the scavenger hunt (although, I would have liked to know which couple won that). Montana Wedding was a great way to end the series, but I sure hope we haven’t seen the last of the Blackwell clan."

Books & Benches - Excerpt

MY BOYFRIEND. GEORGIE just jumped in with both feet. Never mind that the last time she’d jumped in with both feet had been at summer camp in seventh grade. And she had ended up with a concussion and a broken arm. She strained to find her most convincing smile.

Beside her, Zach wheezed as if he choked on air. “Pleasure to meet you all.”

She was going to owe him. Big-time.


"When one of her sisters is getting married she convinces a male co-worker to attend with her and help her convince her family moving to work at a lab in London is the best thing for her. But, he doesn’t show up at the airport and Georgie has to come up with another plan. Cari Lynn Webb has crafted an enjoyable story."

Hallie Reads - Review

"I am here for all the fake-dating romances. This trope is a favorite and rarely lets me down, so of course, Cari Lynn Webb’s Montana Wedding is delightful. . . . The way they challenge each other and grow proves that their fake relationship could be exactly what they need. Add in plenty of holiday cheer, and their romance is charming, fun, and irresistible."


“I worked hard,” Georgie said.

“That’s all you do.” Fee tipped her head and considered Georgie. Worry was etched in her face and clear in her words. “You work hard and harder still. Always focused on work and that next level.”

Georgie had goals to reach. That required focus and dedication. But had she missed out on the fun and games over the years? She shook her head. She wasn’t the carefree type. Never had been. Her sisters knew that. Yet she set her hand flat on the table as if she’d been knocked off balance.

Splashes of Joy - Review

"I love the main characters and she does an amazing joy of bringing back all of the family. Georgie and Zach are so different yet so well for each other. The chemistry between the two is just right! I totally enjoyed this fun and enjoyable entertainment!"


"This is another great story set in Montana at the awesome Blackwell Ranch. I love the Blackwell family. . . . The characters are all well-developed and it is easy to feel their emotions. . . . I highly recommend this story to all readers. It has great life lessons and has a great romance also."

E-Romance News - Excerpt

“Then we’ll find something that does help.”

“We?” She lifted her gaze to his face.

“Yes, we. You and me.” Zach picked up the pot of honey from Hilda Pittman and swirled the wooden stick in the tea. “Honey is good for allergies, sore throats and stomach issues.”

“Is that right?” A smile broke through her hesitant tone.

Pause for Tales - Review

"Montana Wedding was a story that I thought would be a cute one about a fake date/boyfriend where the lead couples fall in love. It was that and more. Actually it was a deeper romance and a story that showed the importance of family."


"Montana Wedding is getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who love clean romance. I was excited to find out that it is part of a series, The Blackwell Sisters, and I will be looking forward to reading those to find out what happened previously to this one."


"The whole family (Harrisons & Blackwells & significant others) come together for this final book in the series, and boy howdy there’s a lot of ’em. The result is a big, crazy, wonderful mix of people and personalities and laughter and love. Throw in Christmas and you have the perfect ratio of family shenanigans to yummy goodies to romantic moments. . . . Montana Wedding is the ideal send-off for this Blackwell series – and maybe we could hope for some other unknown Blackwell offspring from these authors in the future?"

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“Georgie, you want to come with us?” Grace asked.

Georgie shook her head. “I think I’ll stay and explore, if you don’t mind.”

Zach minded. Very much. He’d be alone with Georgie. Again. And every time he was alone with her, he spilled more truths. Revealed parts of his life he’d never wanted to share. Every time he was alone with Georgie, the lines blurred, and he forgot he was only supposed to be pretending to like her.


"There were so many things happening in this story! The winter/Christmas setting lends itself to lots of fun family Christmas traditions and troublesome weather. There is the return of an estranged father, the birth of babies and the reconnecting of sisters. It was easy to get wrapped up in the holiday feel with the idyllic setting and warm family bonds. This is a great book to read during this month of December."


“I thought you could use these as gifts for your sisters.” Zach cleared his throat. “Or not. They’re old glass jars. Probably chipped and cracked. Need to be cleaned.”

She reached up, placed her hand on his cheek.

Her warm, soft touch stalled his rambling and his heart.


"Realistic, dramatic, funny at times, and realistically told, this was one of the fastest read Heartwarming novels I ever read. . . . Fans of the author and genre, plus those who’ve read the previous three novels might enjoy this last book of the series."


"If you are looking for a fun, poignant and spellbinding contemporary romantic read, look no further than Cari Lynn Webb’s latest novel, Montana Wedding. . . . A delightful contemporary romance that will have you laughing out loud and wiping away a tear or two, Cari Lynn Webb’s Montana Wedding is a fantastic tale about finding happiness when you least expect it, family ties and following your heart that I struggled to put down. . . . Warm, witty and wonderful, Cari Lynn Webb’s Montana Wedding is not to be missed."

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

Montana Wedding
(The Blackwell Sisters #5)
By Cari Lynn Webb
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
December 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Can a fake date

Become the real deal?


Triplet Georgie Harrison will do anything to keep her family—including her newfound Blackwell relatives—from worrying about her. Which is exactly why she’s enlisted way-too-charming rodeo cowboy Zach Evans to be her fake boyfriend for her sister’s Montana ranch wedding. The problem is that Georgie’s not just tempted to fall for her own ruse…she’s also falling hard for the roguish cowboy she can never have.

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

The Blackwell Sisters
Book 1: Montana Welcome by Melinda Curtis
Book 2: Montana Wishes by Amy Vastine
Book 3: Montana Dreams by Anna J. Stewart
Book 4: Montana Match by Carol Ross
Book 5: Montana Wedding by Cari Lynn Webb

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Cari Lynn Webb lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughters and assorted four-legged family members. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers. Visit her at her website.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card and a Christmas goodie bag to include holiday books, an ornament and candy (US only)

Ends December 11, 2020

Grab Our Button!

Saturday, December 5, 2020

Book Blitz: A Christmas Proposal by Linda Warren on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

A Christmas Proposal
(Texas Rebels #10)
By Linda Warren
Adult Contemporary Romance, Christmas
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages (Large Print)
December 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A child’s Christmas wish…

Gives love a second chance


Becky Tullous has never forgiven boy-next-door Bo Goodnight for breaking her teenage heart. Now the SWAT sergeant is back in Horseshoe, Texas, and getting far too attached to her three-year-old daughter. Becky never wanted Bo in Luci’s life, but her developmentally delayed little girl is making great progress with him around. Will Bo prove he’s worth a second chance this Christmas?

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt

BECKY STOPPED OUTSIDE the door when she heard Bo’s deep smooth masculine voice, which touched her skin like cashmere, soothing, comfortable and deliciously rich. The baritone made her want to lean her head against the wall and absorb every nuance of his voice into her skin.

“You have a lot of stuffed animals and dolls,” Bo was saying.

“This. Is. Bear. Soft.” In Becky’s mind’s eye she could see Luci rubbing her face against the stuffed animal.

“What’s this one’s name?”

He wasn’t worming his way into Luci’s life. She stepped into the room and Luci ran to her.

“Mom-my.”

Becky picked her up and kissed her cheek. “I need to talk to Bo.”

Luci ran to the kitchen and Becky faced Bo with steel-like determination. He stood from the bed and his tall frame looked out of place in this pink little girl’s room. Dark eyes stared back at her with a heat level that matched hers and she didn’t know if there was a way to win against him. It would be better if he wasn’t so darn good-looking. With his longish hair and growth of beard he reminded her of Keanu Reeves. And Bo was just as big a daredevil as the characters the actor played.

“You want to talk? Talk. I’ve been trying to get you to talk for years so this is a momentous occasion.”

“Stay away from my daughter.” Becky was tired, so tired, and this bickering was not helping. “Bo, please go home.”

“Okay.” He took a step toward her and she had to resist taking a step backward. A musky scent mixed with Irish Spring soap drifted to her, weakening her resolve. “I’ll go, but first, I want to know who Luci’s father is.”

“Bo...”

“I’m her father, aren’t I? You’ve kept it from me all these years.”


Other Books in the Series

(Linked to an Amazon affiliate link.)

About the Author


Two time Rita® nominated author Linda Warren has written forty-five books for Harlequin. A native Texan, she’s a member of Romance Writers of America and the West Houston Chapter. Drawing upon her years of growing up on a ranch, she writes about some of her favorite things: Western-style romance, cowboys and country life. She married her high school sweetheart and they live on a lake in central Texas. He fishes and she writes. Works perfect. You can find out more about Linda at http://www.LindaWarren.net.


Blitz Giveaway


One winner will receive a $20 Amazon eGift Card (US only)
Ends December 5, 2020

ENTER HERE
Grab Our Button!

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Blue Moon Blog Tour & Giveaway by Jenny Knipfer

 



About the Book

 


Book: Blue Moon

Author: Jenny Knipfer

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release Date: September 27, 2019

By the Light of the Moon series:
Readers who love being trapped in a character’s mind should relish this finely written, gripping series. A must read for fans of historical fiction.”–The Prairies Book Review

A tale of precious things more rare than a blue moon…

The year is 1885 and unwed Vanessa Gulet must surrender her newborn son to her married twin sister, Valerie, to raise. A seed of bitterness grows in Vanessa. When the opportunity arises for her to have what she’s always wanted, Vanessa takes it despite the consequences to her family, getting more than she bargained for.

Meanwhile, Valerie, overcome with loss and grief, faces a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Will she and her husband, Felix, forge through their trials together, or will these upsets cause them to drift apart?

Will Vanessa and Valerie remain at odds, or will they allow the power of forgiveness to heal their strained relationship?

Love seems to bloom in the most unlikely of places in Webaashi Bay for an old friend of Jenay’s and a woman who owns the local dress shop. A parallel tale of love, forgiveness, and reuniting lost things is spun by a local author adding another dimension to the tale of the Gulet twins and their saga.

Fans of historical fiction, Christian historical fiction, clean romance, and literary fiction will enjoy this dramatic read!

 

Click here to get your copy!

MY REVIEW
Blue Moon is a story of lost motherhood, separation from family, forgiveness, and new beginnings. My favorite character is Vanessa. She went through loss, heartache, and indifference due to her father's actions. Vanessa's sister, although a twin, was considerably different. She went through loss also and had to deal with ongoing symptoms of MS.

The story is written in the first person which isn't my favorite but was well worth the read. The storyline was interesting, all the characters had their own personalities that contributed to the story's excitement and suspense. The message throughout carried a Christian theme of love, and hardship, and hard feelings that forgiveness can rectify. The ending wrapped up nicely.

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

 

About the Author



Jenny lives in Wisconsin with her husband, Ken, and their pet Yorkie, Ruby. She is also a mom and loves being a grandma. She enjoys many creative pursuits but finds writing the most fulfilling.

Jenny’s educational background stems from psychology, music, and cultural missions. She spent many years as a librarian in a local public library but recently switched to using her skills as a floral designer in a retail flower shop. She is now retired from work due to disability.

She authored and performed a self-published musical CD entitled, Scrapbook of a Closet Poet.

Jenny’s first three books earned five-star reviews from Reader’s Favorite, a book review and award contest company. Their praise: “Ruby Moon is entertaining, fast-paced, and features characters that are real. Blue Moon continues a well-written and highly engaging saga of family ties, betrayals, and heartaches… Silver Moon is a highly recommended read for fans of historical wartime fiction, powerful emotive drama, and excellent atmospheric writing.”

 

She holds membership in the: Midwest Independent Booksellers Association, Historical Novel Society, Wisconsin Writers Association, Indie Christian Publishing Association, and Independent Book Publishers Association.

Jenny’s favorite place to relax is by the western shore of Lake Superior, where her novel series, By The Light of the Moon, is set. She has self-published the first two books, Ruby Moon and Blue Moon in her four-part series. Two more novels to complete the series are planned for 2020. She is currently writing a new historical fiction series called, Sheltering Trees.

 

Libraries and retailers may find Jenny’s books on Ingram. Support your local bookstores, and request a copy of Jenny’s books there. Purchase paperbacks retail on Amazon. Ebooks are available through your favorite ebook retailer.

Keep current with Jenny by visiting her website at https://jennyknipfer.com

 

More from Jenny

In Blue Moon, I play off a minor character from Ruby Moon, Vanessa Gulet. When Ruby Moon ended, I started wondering what Vanessa’s life had been like, rejected by Renault, her old flame who had promised her his devotion.

 

Vanessa’s story grew along with Valerie’s, her identical twin sister. Asking the question of what could divide twin siblings drew me deep into the drama of the Gulet sisters, and a story of desire and loss sprang from my imagination.

 

An even richer depth occurred when I brought the main character from Ruby Moon, Jenay, into the thick of the twins’ saga. Vanessa must come to grips with what really happened to Renault and who was involved. Will she forgive the past and the unintentional wrongs committed and embrace the new friend she has made or not?

 

Also, I wrote from experience in Blue Moon, as Valerie must face the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and how to live with the fear of the unknown shadowing her life. It was therapeutic for me to write some of my own feeling and thoughts through Valerie. Journaling has always been a way for me to manage my emotions, and writing via story form was no different. Chances are you either know someone with MS or know of someone with MS. The disease is very prevalent in the U.S., and through Blue Moon, I want to draw some awareness to what I and many people live with every day.

 

I hope in Blue Moon that the theme of forgiveness will encourage readers through their own struggles and believe that choosing to forgive is always the better choice, often bringing unforeseen blessings.

 

Thank you for taking the time to read a little about Blue Moon and its origin! I hope you get a chance to read it and the twins’ tale of forgiveness. If you do, please let me know, and please leave a review.

 

Blessings, J

 

P.S. Did you know I include a recipe pertaining to the story in most of my books? In Blue Moon, I include an old family favorite: butter tarts. Lily, a daughter of the man Vanessa meets and is drawn to in Webaashi Bay, loves butter tarts. Vanessa and Lily make them together. Following is the recipe.

 

Lily’s Butter Tart

1 C sugar

¼ C softened butter or butter substitute

2 eggs

juice of half a lemon

½ C golden raisins

½ C sweetened shredded coconut

Your favorite pie crust recipe for one 9” crust

Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and lemon juice. Beat well. By hand mix in the raisins and coconut. Line pastry tin with pie crust and fill with mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes or until set.

I based this recipe from an old one of my grandmother’s from the late 1800s. 

NOTE:  You can also cut rounds of pie crust to fill muffin tins to make smaller tarts. (Lily’s style) I make the one dish version because it’s less fuss.


                               Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 20

lakesidelivingsite, November 20

Texas Book-aholic, November 21

Inklings and notions, November 22

For Him and My Family, November 23

KarenSueHadley, November 23

Rebecca Tews, November 24

deb’s Book Review, November 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 26

Captive Dreams Window, November 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 27

Artistic Nobody, November 28 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Ashley’s Bookshelf, November 29

Betti Mace, November 30

Sara Jane Jacobs, December 1

Connie’s History Classroom, December 2

Splashes of Joy, December 3

Bizwings Blog, December 3

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Jenny is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card, a copy of Blue Moon, and a pair of earrings reflecting Blue Moon’s theme!!

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/103ed/blue-moon-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, November 29, 2020

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

 




Book Title: Watercolors

Author: Lorna Seilstad

The Mosaic Collection

Historical Christian Fiction

Book Description

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

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

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

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


MY REVIEW

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

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

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

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