Monday, March 21, 2022

Blog & Review Tour of Where Wild Roses Bloom by Angela K. Couch

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Where Wild Roses Bloom by Angela K. Couch, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK












Title: Where Wild Roses Bloom

Series: Heart of a Mountie #1

Author: Angela K. Couch

Publisher: Smitten Historical Romance

Release Date: March 15, 2022

Genre: Historical Romance, Christian

When Lenora Perry’s dream of becoming an acclaimed singer dies a painful death, she attempts to escape her mistakes by fleeing north—directly into the path of an all-too-dashing Mountie. Though the man in scarlet appears eager to be rid of her, his home provides security, and his sister offers friendship—two things Lenora is desperate for after discovering her pregnancy. With the past dogging her footsteps and her future uncertain, dare she consider new dreams?

Upholding the law makes up the fabric of Constable Edmond Bryce’s existence. As his five years of service draw to an end, he must decide whether or not to continue in his father’s footsteps—an increasingly difficult decision now that Miss Perry has infiltrated his life. Though she’s the daughter of a parson and a close friend to his sister, Edmond can’t push aside the feeling that Lenora hides more than she tells. But duty calls, leaving little time for matters of the heart.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook

MY REVIEW


Lenora Perry, running from a bad situation in Montana in 1910, finds herself on a wagon train headed to Canada. With no place to go and no money, she is rescued by Constable Edmond Bryce of the Mounties.

Lenora hides a dark secret from her past. She tries to become a new person and decided to learn to trust God for her future. She comes to enjoy her time at Edmond's home and strikes up a friendship with his sister.

The romance between Lenora and Edmond is strained and their future uncertain. The storyline is one of forgiveness, second chances, and love. There are lots of surprises and intense moments. It had me turning pages and kept my attention from the beginning. An uplifting and inspirational read.

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

                                                                       Five Stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
















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

CONNECT WITH ANGELA: Website | Facebook | Twitter



TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card!



Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 14, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 21, 2022. 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 the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!




Friday, March 18, 2022

Neighborliness by David Docusen



Do you want to love your neighbor as yourself but don’t know where to start? This practical, accessible guide to bridging the dividing lines of politics, race, and economics, both individually and as the church, will help you amplify Jesus in your community and build God’s kingdom.  

When asked what the greatest commandment is, Jesus gave a two-part answer: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” and also “Love your neighbor as yourself.”   

Love God. Love others.   

Jesus’ simple command to love your neighbor can feel overwhelming when your neighbor looks, lives, and votes differently than you do. Racial and economic tensions across the country have resulted in deep dividing lines that seem really intimidating to cross.   

Docusen breaks down these lines in approachable chapters, including topics like these: 

  • how to actively seek out people you can benefit and encourage,
  • what it means to find a diverse and supportive community that fulfills needs, 
  • examples of real-life experiences, including highlights and missteps of Docusen’s ongoing journey, and
  • how churches can teach on difficult topics with grace and truth.

Neighborliness is a practical guide to bridging those dividing lines and learning to recognize and amplify the beauty of God in our communities. Backed by David’s speaking and training through the Neighborliness Center, this book will help individuals and churches reach out to their neighbors, love them through Christ, and build God’s kingdom. 




Purchase book





MY REVIEW




In David Docusen's book, "Neighborliness," he teaches how to walk in the fullness of Jesus' commandment to love our neighbors. Our neighbors aren't just the ones in our neighborhood. We need to step outside our comfort zone and fulfill the commandment by reaching out to those who come from different backgrounds. We start with new relationships-get to really know them-their needs and culture.

We need to also learn to have honest conversations about tough topics-learn to love like Jesus. We are each given the commandment as children of God and with each of us showing love towards others, we can change our world.

David also reminds us we can't love God and be lovers of money. God has to come first in our lives. If we submit to HIS will for our life, we can walk in fullness and have peace and unity.

I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR




David Docusen has spent twenty   years investing in communities as a pastor, speaker, teacher, advocate, and author. After pastoring in the local church for twenty years, David and his wife, Dara, launched Docusen Ministries. Through this organization, David invests into churches, nonprofits, and businesses across the world through speaking, teaching, and writing.

After completing his doctoral degree studying the cyclical patterns of generational poverty, he worked with a group of businesspeople as a founding board member of Freedom Communities—an organization that focuses on equitable access to education, employment, healthcare, and housing.





Monday, March 14, 2022

Revolution In World Missions by K. P. Yohannan






ABOUT THE BOOK


"Lord, I'll give myself to speak for You."

Young Yohannan had no idea what those words of surrender would mean for his life and for millions of others in his generation. Once an insecure 16-year-old, he became a missionary statesman who has impacted the world of missions and whose unbending message has touched hungry hearts on every continent.

Step into his story and experience the world through his eyes. You'll walk right into the book of Acts. And through his telling, you'll hear the very heart of God beating for His creation. K.P. Yohannan's passion is contagious and spurs you on to be all for Jesus.

He chose to take the road less traveled many years ago, and today Gospel for Asia, 
www.gfa.org  the mission he founded, is one of the most respected organizations in our time with thousands of national workers and vibrant congregations throughout the heart of the 10/40 Window.

Get ready, your life is about to change!

Do you long to let go of self-centeredness and be more eternally minded?

Do you desire to make a difference in the lost world but aren't sure how to go about it?

Change Your Life
Many people have said this book changed their life—and it just might change yours too!


Get Your FREE Copy



                         MY REVIEW

I was moved by K.P. Yohannan's story of how he came to start the Gospel for Asia mission. By relating his story and letting the reader know all the details, he created a book that will forever leave an imprint on the lives of those who read it.

His practical and God-inspired solutions to helping those in Asia by raising up disciples for Christ among the communities of those who already live there, so they can be an example and win others to Christ, made perfect sense.

The one point that hit home for me was even though a lot of us aren't called by Christ personally to be a missionary, we all have a responsibility to the Great Commission. We are all called to help win others to Christ.

My favorite quote from the book is on page 104- " If we intend to answer man's greatest problem-his separation from the eternal God-with rice handouts, then we are throwing a drowning man a board instead of helping him out of the water."

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

                         ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Dr. KP Yohannan Metropolitan has been crisscrossing the globe for the past 40 years, challenging the Body of Christ to discipleship. His call to a radical lifestyle—with an all-out commitment to Jesus—has left its impact on nearly every continent. To the Church caught up by the tidal waves of compromise and self-preservation, Yohannan’s life message is a fresh word to this generation and yet as timeless as the scriptural mandate itself.

Yohannan is the founder and director of Gospel for Asia (GFA), a Christian mission organization deeply committed to seeing communities transformed through the love of Christ demonstrated in word and deed. He is also the metropolitan bishop of Believers Church , an indigenous church in South Asia.

Born in South India in 1950, Yohannan is the youngest of six sons. His mother dedicated each of her children to the Lord and longed to see one of them commit their lives to ministry. She secretly fasted each Friday for three-and-a-half years, praying, “Oh God, let just one of my boys preach!” Even as she prayed, her children were growing up, seeming destined for secular work. Finally, only the youngest, little “Yohannachan,” was left. Seeing how shy and insecure he was, his mother thought there was little chance that he would preach.




 

Sunday, March 13, 2022

Arms of Freedom Blog Tour & Giveaway by Kathleen Neely

 



About the Book

 

Book: Arms of Freedom

Author: Kathleen Neely

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Release date: October 6, 2021

With each page of the age-old journals, Annie discovers all that unites her with a woman who once lived in her farmhouse. One lived with wealth and one with poverty, but both knew captivity. Both longed to be free.

Miriam yearns to escape her life as a super model. She drops the pseudonym and uses the name she gave up years ago—Annie Gentry. Then she alters her appearance and moves to rural South Carolina to care for her grandmother. Can she live a simple life without recognition? Can she hide a net worth valued in the millions? Love is nowhere in her plans until she meets a man who wants nothing more than Annie Gentry and the simple life he lives.

Charlotte lived in the same farmhouse in the tumultuous 1860’s. The Civil War was over, but for a bi-racial girl, freedom remained elusive. She coveted a life where she wouldn’t bring shame to her family. A life where she could make a difference. As she experiences hope, will it be wrested from her?

The journals stop abruptly with a climactic event, leaving Annie to search for information. What happened to Charlotte? Did her life make a difference?  Did she ever find freedom?

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

The storyline slipped between Miriam Gentry in New York and Hickory Falls, and young Charlotte who resided in the same Hickory Falls house in the 1800s. I enjoyed learning about both women. There is a lot of mystery surrounding both time periods.

The author did a wonderful job with the historical details and I felt as though I was there. The controversy around the civil rights of that time period found my emotions running the gamut; tears, compassion and heartbreak. It was an emotional read, but at times a very inspirational and uplifting one.

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


 

About the Author

Kathleen Neely is a retired elementary principal, and enjoys time with family, visiting her two grandsons, traveling, and reading.

She is the author of The Street Singer, Beauty for Ashes, The Least of These, Arms of Freedom, and In Search of True North. Kathleen won second place in a short story contest through ACFW-VA for her short story “The Missing Piece” and an honorable mention for her story “The Dance”. Both were published in a Christmas anthology. Her novel, The Least of These, was awarded first place in the 2015 Fresh Voices contest through Almost an Author. She has numerous devotions published through Christian Devotions.

Kathleen continues to speak to students about writing and publication processes. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.

 

More from Kathleen

I’d like to introduce myself and then share a little bit about my book, Arms of Freedom. I am a retired educator having taught preschool, fourth grade, and then moving into administration as an elementary principal. When I retired, I pursued my desire to write. My first novel, The Least of These, won first place in a contest titled Fresh Voices. That honor renewed my confidence, and since then, I’ve written five novels. Arms of Freedom is my first timeslip (dual timeline) novel.

Arms of Freedom was birthed during a time of racial tension in our nation; a time when social injustice and protests were forefronts in the news. Many publishers safely avoided manuscripts with any mention of racial issues—perhaps a wise decision from a business perspective.

However, failure to look at our past denies us the opportunity to learn from history. Our fear of offending can push major historical offenses into a dark closet. I chose to illuminate those offenses by launching this book. Following the Civil War, the period of twelve years known as Reconstruction was perhaps the most brutal period of racial terrorism. The contents may be hard to read. I confess that I often wrote through tears.

In the end, I hope your takeaway is this: Regardless of race and ethnicity, all people are created in the image of God, a one-of-a-kind miracle, loved by Him, and created for a purpose. We are called to unity, to be perfectly one (John 17:23). May we join together in raising our arms of freedom to the Savior who released us from the captivity of sin.

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. — John 8:36 NIV

I hope you enjoy Annie’s story as the life of this contemporary character intersects with Charlotte’s story from 150 years earlier. Both experience a coming-of-age change as they seek to escape from what holds them captive.

                                Blog Stops

                             Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize of a $25 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/1b4bd/arms-of-freedom-celebration-tour-giveaway

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Weep in the Night Blog Tour & Giveaway by Valerie Massey Goree

 

 


About the Book

 

Book: Weep in the Night

Author: Valerie Massey Goree

Genre: Christian Fiction

Release date: October 24, 2014

After three years in the witness protection program, Sadie Malone’s life in Texas is bland and humdrum—until she meets a new co-worker. Bowen Boudine ignites a flame in Sadie’s long-dormant heart, but when she discovers he knows her true identity, she attempts to flee. He thwarts her escape and reveals the reason he’s been sent to locate her. Bowen, a seasoned operative with International Retrieval Organization takes his job escorting Sadie safely back to California seriously, but quickly finds he’s falling for her. Can he maintain a professional relationship while he protects her from the crime boss her testimony helped to convict?

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review
Weep in the Night is fast-paced inspirational suspense that is well-written with Biblical scriptures that add to the characters' development throughout the story.

Sadie, whose husband and daughter, are killed in an auto accident is in the Witness Protection Program, but also on the run. Her assigned protector, Bowen, takes his job seriously always trying to stay one step ahead but struggling with his faith. Sadie also struggles with her faith but has accepted her past and tried to come to grips with it. She never loses hope.

There are lots of twists along the way and a surprise ending you will love. Highly recommended.

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

 

About the Author

American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award winner Valerie Massey Goree resides with her husband on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula of Washington State.

After serving as missionaries in her home country of Zimbabwe and raising two children, Glenn and Valerie moved to Texas. She worked in the public school system for many years, focusing on students with special needs. Now retired in Washington, Valerie spends her time writing, and spoiling her grandchildren.

Novels include: Deceive Me Once; Colors of Deceit; The Stolen Lives Trilogy, Weep in the Night; Day of Reckoning; and Justice at Dawn, to be released July, 2021. Valerie’s latest novel Forever Under Blue Skies, is now available from Amazon.

Valerie loves to hear from her readers.

 

More from Valerie

Story ideas invade my mind at the oddest moments. One day as I sorted laundry, I thought how interesting it would be to begin a novel with: “I’d been in the Witness Protection Program for three years when my identity was compromised.”

 

The idea bubbled and churned in my mind for a while. When I sat down to outline possible scenarios, the ideas hit me like an avalanche. Why was she in WITSEC? Who outed her? I scribbled as fast as I could—yes, I’m behind the times and use paper and pencil to plot my novels.

 

And so IRO was born. The International Retrieval Organization is my topnotch investigative service, with unlimited resources and experienced operatives.

 

Weep in the Night is the first novel in my Stolen Lives Trilogy. IRO agents are the heroes or heroines in the series. Which agent will save the day?

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 4

Texas Book-aholic, March 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 6

Inklings and notions, March 7

Blogging With Carol, March 8

For Him and My Family, March 9

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 10 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, March 10

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 11

Bizwings Blog, March 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 14

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

Beauty in the Binding, March 16 (Author Interview)

CarpeDiem, March 16

Simple Harvest Reads, March 17 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)


Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Valerie is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 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/1b4c1/weep-in-the-night-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Relentless Rebels 3 Day Blitz by Sharon Rene


                                            

 



Relentless Rebels

(Divine Destiny Chronicles #2)

By Sharon René

Young Adult, Christian, Dystopian

Paperback & ebook, 315 Pages

March 8, 2022 by Anaiah Press


After rescuing their kidnapped friends and stopping the government from assassinating Councilor Sierra Stone, Jordan and Team Seven thought the fight was over, but the real battle is just beginning. Sierra must now try to regain her role in the Global Collective Council while also convincing them that River Wallis, co-chair of the Council, tried to kill her. But her success could very well lead to a civil war.

The Council will do everything in their power to stop Sierra, including killing her allies. Barely surviving an attack on their mountain hideaway, Jordan and Team Seven’s lives are on the line. Again. But Team Seven won’t give up that easily, and they set out to rally support for their cause. Unfortunately for Team Seven, they’re caught in the middle as the world takes sides.

Amidst attacks, lies, betrayals, and devastating losses, Jordan’s faith is shaken, and she struggles with her hatred for River Wallis. She knows that judgment belongs to God, but when she finally comes face to face with River, Jordan must rely on her faltering faith to choose wisely—give in to her need for vengeance, or give it up for God to decide.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon


Top 10 Things to Know if You are New to the Divine Destiny Trilogy

1. The Global Collective Council controls the planet. They are powerful and practically worshiped by their followers.

2. Hunter Wallis and his sister River Wallis are the leaders of the Global Collective Council.

3. Sierra Stone is a member of the Global Council. She is trying to make the government fair for all of the world’s citizens.

4. The main character, Jordan Scott, is from Old Memphis. She attends a boarding school called Global Collective University (GCU) with teens from all over the planet.

5. Jordan and her housemates are called Team Seven. Each member of the team has a special skill or talent such as ballet, martial arts, healing, and weightlifting.

6. The government kidnaps Christian students to use them in a plot to assassinate Councilor Sierra Stone. Team Seven must rescue the students and stop the assassination.

7. Team Seven travels to Old Venezuela and collaborates with a rebel leader, Hector Alvarado, to rescue the missing students and stop the assassination.

8. After accomplishing their mission Team Seven becomes wanted fugitives.

9. Team Seven escapes to the mountains of Old Venezuela and hides at Hector Alvarado’s rebel camp.

10. River Wallis, vice-chair of the Global Collective Council, vows to locate Team Seven and kill them.

 

Other Books in the Series


 

Hesitant Heroes

(Divine Destiny #1)

By Sharon René

Young Adult, Christian, Dystopian

Paperback & ebook, 336 Pages

September 7, 2021 by Anaiah Press


In a future where the planet is ruled by the powerful Global Collective Council, and religion is outlawed, Jordan Scott is chosen to attend Global Collective University because of her phenomenal computer skills. Shy and insecure, she has difficulty fitting in with the intelligent, worldly teens at GCU. She joins a secret Bible study and meets Matthew Thomas, a good-looking jock with a big heart. Jordan’s relationship with Matthew grows deeper, and she even manages to bond with her cranky roommate while growing closer to her fellow teammates.

When Christian students mysteriously start disappearing from campus, Jordan stumbles upon the shocking truth—these students are pawns in a government plot, and she’s next on their list. Suddenly, she’s forced into a leadership position as she and her teammates journey from the European Alps to the jungles of Venezuela in a race to save the missing students and stop a political assassination. Fighting fears that have haunted her for years, Jordan battles with the strongest political force on the planet. She believes God placed her at GCU for “such a time as this.” Jordan will have to rely on her faith and friends to save the missing students and foil the evil government.


               


(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository



About the Author

 


Sharon René loves to write young adult and children’s fiction. Her young adult dystopian trilogy has been acquired by Anaiah Press and the first book, Hesitant Heroes, released September 7, 2021. Hesitant Heroes is an exciting blend of danger, drama and a little romance.

The next book, Relentless Rebels, released March 8, 2022. It continues Team Seven’s exciting adventures. Defying Destiny, the prequel, is the last book in the trilogy.

Her first book, A Mixed Bag of God’s Grace, was published in 2018 by TouchPoint Press. This is a book of short stories and devotions for elementary aged children.

Sharon René grew up in Louisiana and now lives in Tennessee with one very spoiled cat.

Website| Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub




 Tour Giveaway




One winner will receive signed copies of Hesitant Heroes and Relentless Rebels by Sharon René (US only)

Ends March 13, 2022

RAFFLECOPTER

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b9a55db3585/?