Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Farm to Fork to Love Movie Review






Farm to Fork to Love is a drama romance starring Meggan Kaiser, Scot Cooper, Maurice Johnson, Forbes Riley, and Patty Lambert.    


TRAILER

 




You can watch Farm to Fork to Love on Netflix, or Pureflix if you have a subscription or on Tubi for free!   https://bit.ly/farmtoforktolovewatchnow




My Review

Farm to Fork to Love has witty, fun characters that play their parts well.  It's a lighthearted, wholesome movie about two people who have similar interests and dreams but have delayed their true dream.

The movie's two main characters Alice and Christian graduated from culinary school together but haven't seen each other for years.  They are both chosen as judges by Christian's aunt, who sponsors the cooking competition.  

There are lots of funny parts, some unexpected events, and a second chance at love. Highly recommended. A movie you can watch over and over again, it was that good.








Friday, April 1, 2022

Light the Way Blog Tour & Giveaway by Lin Stepp

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Light the Way
(The Lighthouse Sisters #1)
By Lin Stepp
Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 292 Pages
April 1, 2022 by Mountain Hill Press

In this new coastal series, Lin Stepp transports her readers into the rich, colorful lives of Burke and her sisters, Lila, Gwen, and Celeste, who grew up at the Deveaux Inn and Lighthouse on a windswept island, accessible only by boat. Get ready to be introduced to the ups and downs, joys and sorrows, challenges and adventures of a Lighthouse Keeper.

Life had grown hard for Burke Deveaux at the family inn and lighthouse since her father died. She missed his warmth and still expected to see him walking into a room, his big laugh booming. Burke and her mother were gradually adjusting to the change, and Lila had come home this winter to help, but the workload was heavy. With spring coming and tourism picking up in the South Carolina Lowcountry, Burke welcomed Hal Jenkins’ request for his son Waylon to work for them. Waylon, retiring early from the Navy, knew the island and the lighthouse, having grown up nearby. Burke also knew Waylon well since they’d grown up together. He’d always been older, and she wondered how he’d see her now.

Waylon had been away from Edisto Island for over twelve years now, traveling around the world in the military, but it felt good to be home. He’d hated learning Lloyd Deveaux was gone, the warm-hearted Lighthouse Keeper he’d followed around as a boy. But he liked the idea of coming to stay at the lodge at Watch Island to help the Deveaux family with the inn, lighthouse, and nearly five-hundred acres of land the Lighthouse Station occupied. He knew Burke had picked up many of her father’s old tasks and he looked forward to seeing her again. He’d kept feelings for her clamped down for years but one look at her brought them surging back. How would he handle that with them working together?

(Affiliate links included.)
 
PRAISE FOR LIN STEPP AND HER RICH SOUTHERN NOVELS:

“This book feels just as tranquil as Edisto and has a wonderful, laid back flow, like beautiful ocean waves lapping up on the shore … you can’t help but fall in love with every facet of this novel.” – Christ F. JUST READS Review

“From the stunning backdrop of the South Carolina Lowcountry … this book was like going home.” – Kim Standridge Boykin, Bestselling Author of Palmetto Moon

“Each book showcases Lin Stepp’s natural gift as a novelist for originality and narrative driven storytelling.” – MIDWEST REVIEW

MY REVIEW  

Burke, takes over the duties as lighthouse keeper after the death of her father. Burke's mother continues to run the Lighthouse Inn with Burke's help. Her sisters, Lila, Gwen, and Celeste all have lives of their own, or at least they did.

Light the way is about family hardships, forgiveness, and coming together when times are hard. The characters, all so very different, but still united and willing to do what it takes to support each other, are a charming, witty, and loving group.

I loved the faith aspect of Lila in particular and her deep insight into the Lord and willingness to counsel her sisters in times of need. Burke, a strong and well-focused woman gave her all to anything she did.

Waylon was one of my favorites. He grew up with the Deveaux sisters but had an extra fondness for Burke. Their sweet romance woven into the story was beautiful and heartwarming.

The addition of great descriptions of the setting and a suspenseful event made the story perfect. It's my first read from this author but it won't be my last. Highly recommended.

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



























About the Author


Lin Stepp is a native Tennessean, businesswoman and educator. A New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and Amazon best-selling international author, Lin has twenty published novels out now, including her twelve beloved Smoky Mountain novels, all set in different Tennessee and North Carolina locations, three Mountain Home books, a novella in one of Kensington’s Christmas anthologies, and four South Carolina coastal novels, including her three Edisto Trilogy books and her first release in the new Lighthouse Sisters series. Lin and her husband J.L. also write regional guidebooks, including a published Smoky Mountain hiking guide and a TN and a SC state parks guidebook, all filled with hundreds of color photos. Stepp’s latest 2022 releases are Eight at the Lake, set in Dandridge near the Smoky Mountains, and Light the Way, set at the SC coast. Writing and adventuring are her joys and more novels set in the Smokies and at the beach are on the way, as well as more colorful regional guidebooks. Lin’s title Claire At Edisto was the 2019 Best Book Award Winner in Fiction: Romance, sponsored by American Book Fest and her novel Welcome Back a finalist in the 2017 Selah Awards. Lin enjoys speaking for events, festivals, libraries, and book clubs. And she loves reading, hiking, exploring out of doors, and keeping up with her readers. Look for her pages on Facebook and Twitter and follow her monthly blog and newsletter, too, that you will find on her website at: www.linstepp.com


Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive print copies of Light the Way, Claire at Edisto, Return to Edisto, and Edisto Song by Lin Stepp, and bookmarks (US only)

Ends April 6, 2022

 
Grab Our Button!

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Audio Blog Blitz-Laurel's Dream by Pepper Basham

 

Laurel's Dream JustListen Blog Blitz 

Welcome to the audiobook Blog Blitz for Laurel's Dream by Pepper Basham, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Laurel's Dream 
Series: My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge #1 
Author: Pepper Basham 
Narrator: Catherine Gaffney 
Publisher: Woven Words 
Release Date: January 13, 2022 
Genre: Christian, Historical Romance 

Dreams are precious commodities in the Blue Ridge Mountains of 1918, and Laurel McAdams is attempting to make hers come true. But sometimes, life in the mountains has a way of squandering dreams. As she attempts to avoid matrimony, she is secretly saving for her future with the sole purpose of becoming a teacher and bringing consistent education back to her people. 

Having failed his British father again by being unable to fight in the Great War, Jonathan Taylor joins his uncle's missionary endeavors as a teacher in a two-room schoolhouse in Appalachia, but nothing prepares him for the rugged wilderness, narrow-minded natives, and...Laurel McAdams. Her joy and friendship prove a guiding light in the middle of his new responsibilities and tempt his timid heart toward a future he never expected. 

But when Jonathan's teaching methods lead to dangerous outcomes and Laurel's dream is threatened by an unexpected choice, will these two learn how to find hope and maybe even love beyond the heartache? Can Jonathan and Laurel create a new dream from the shattered pieces of the old ones or will bitterness and brokenness keep them apart? 

Laurel's Dream was originally published by Barbour Publishing as My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge: Laurel's Dream in January 2019

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

COMING SOON


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pepper Basham

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Writing both historical and contemporary novels, she loves to incorporate her native Appalachian culture and/or her unabashed adoration of the UK into her stories. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the wife of a fantastic pastor, mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus. Her newest novel is The Mistletoe Countess, a historical romantic romp with a dash of mystery and a bunch of humor too. You can learn more about Pepper and her books on her website at www.pepperdbasham.com.

CONNECT WITH PEPPER: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a Laurel's Dream audiobook download code and print copy plus a Mountain Air candle!

Laurel's Dream JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 29, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 5, 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 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!

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Friday, March 25, 2022

Break Every Chain by Steph Carse- View and Share!

 




Break Every Chain is a powerful and emotional video.  It reminded me that almost everyone either knows someone who has an addiction or possibly even experienced it with a family member. 

It is heartbreaking to think of how many people are plagued with addictions of many kinds. What comes to mind first is alcohol and drugs.  Many people die every year from drug overdoses. 

What this video instilled in me as the dominant message was, "We are not alone."  There is help out there and a way to overcome addiction once and for all.  Through the love of Jesus Christ. 

My hope is that each one of you that visit my blog will watch the video and share it with those you know.  By spreading the message, we can be helping someone.

The music video leads at the end to a website where people can get access to resources and find the kind of help they may need to have victory over any addiction.

Thanks for viewing. God bless.
Julie

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Moon in the Sky Book Tour & Giveaway by Bruce Shutts

 




Children have the power to turn simple everyday tasks into moments of intrigue and laughter.

When getting dressed, they might just think:

"My pants are really easy

Since both my feet will fit.

And after I put both legs in,

I pull them up. That's it!

But shirts are very tricky;

They have three holes, not two!

And if you pick the wrong one,

Your head just won't go through!"

Delight in thirteen whimsical poems that capture the simple honesty of everyday childhood activities written from the perspective of three-to-six-year-olds. From getting dressed, eating snacks, or having stinky feet, you and your child will recognize yourself in these poems. Crafted to make you laugh, smile, and build memories with your kids.


MY REVIEW

The Moon In The Sky is written in easy-to-read poems and in subjects, a young child can relate to- it's as if they had been written by a child.

The poems had me laughing as I thought back to similar circumstances with my own children and grandchildren. It is a book I'm sure they will enjoy and plan to share with them.

The illustrations are large, very realistic, and well done. The watercolor look gives them a soft, easy on the eyes appearance, but grasp your attention. I was happy to see in the illustrations the dad was also involved in the care of the children in the story. It shows a full family involvement and brought a smile to my face.

The Moon In the Sky is a quick read that would be perfect to read at any time and fits in with some parents' busy schedules. One to be added to your library.


                                Buy the Book:
                                Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble
                                Books-a-Million ~ Book Depository
                                add to the goodreads





Bruce Shutts has spent countless hours reading children’s picture books to his three children and five grandchildren over the past forty years. He also loves to create humorous poems for nearly every occasion he can imagine. Coupled with the fact that he often thinks and acts like a three-to-six-year-old, it makes his entrance into the world of children’s books a natural fit. He currently is retired with his wife of forty-five years and loves to travel, play golf, and (you guessed it) read books at night to his grandkids! 


Interview with Bruce Shutts

Author of “The Moon in the Sky”

Question: What made you decide to write a children’s picture book?

Answer: I have always enjoyed reading books to my children when they were young, and now to my grandchildren. I knew which books made me smile and thought that I could create something along those lines. The recent pandemic actually gave me the free time, not only to do the writing but all of the work necessary to see it through into print.

Question: Your book describes everyday activities in the life of a child. What makes those so interesting?

Answer: Children turn simple tasks or activities into moments of intrigue and laughter. Much like the challenge of getting dressed by themselves by not putting their head incorrectly into a shirt sleeve or getting the shoes on the right feet. It also doesn’t hurt to include stories about picking your nose or having stinky feet! Kids love it!

Question: Where did the title “The Moon in the Sky” come from?

Answer: I mention in the book that my wife, along with her mom, wrote a poem about the moon when she was in second grade. It was passed down through our kids and grandkids. Though my book has nothing to do with the moon, I was always going to title it in honor of that poem that started it all.

Question: Has the writing experience been more or less what you expected?

Answer: As a first-time author, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I guess the writing and then working with the illustrator and editors was the most straightforward. All of the details involved in getting a book published proved to be the biggest challenge and created the most anxiety on my part. One needs to do a lot of research or get some type of professional help to get through that phase of your project.

Question: Are children’s picture books the only genre you are interested in?

Answer: As far as writing, for sure. I often think and act like a three-to-six-year-old, so that is a perfect fit for me. Kids are great audiences and, while I can’t perform for them, at least I feel that by creating a book that entertains them, I am doing the next best thing.


Giveaway

THE MOON IN THE SKY Book Tour Giveaway


 


 

 

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Blog Blitz Whatever Happens Next by Jaycee Weaver

 

Whatever Happens Next JustRead Blog Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog Blitz for Whatever Happens Next by Jaycee Weaver, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Whatever Happens Next Title: Whatever Happens Next 
Series: Everyday Love #4 
Author: Jaycee Weaver 
Publisher: Sandia Sky Press 
Release Date: May 12, 2020 
Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Romance 

Growing up in nowhere Oklahoma gave US Air Force vehicle maintainer TSgt Dyson what his momma calls itchy feet. His wanderlust has kept him from romantic entanglements for years, until the day an over-dramatic, strawberry-scented chatterbox slams into him and turns his world upside down. 

Jenna Davis was a quintessential good girl, deeply rooted in her family and faith until one mistake three years ago changed everything. Unable to admit her failure, she goes through the motions watching everyone else live their dreams. But it’s hard to find her purpose when opening up to anyone—even God—feels impossible. Then she meets Dyson, who personifies the strong, silent type. 

Dyson gets her to open up and begin dreaming again, rebuilding the trust she’s lost in men and especially in herself. But Dyson has something important to tell Jenna, and he knows it’ll be the end of everything they’ve built. After all, how can he ask her to leave everything and everyone behind when he can never stay? 

The Everyday Love Series is a contemporary romance series set in Albuquerque, featuring ordinary people in lifelike stories that inspire, uplift, and share hope. Stories in which a very real God shows Himself in everyday ways to carry His people through any circumstance.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | AmazonBook Depository | IndieBound | BookBub

ebook sale price $0.99 for a limited time


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jaycee Weaver

Lover of Jesus, family, books, coffee, music, and crafting (in that order), Jaycee Weaver is perpetually pursuing at least one of her passions. She writes contemporary Christian romance stories featuring realistic characters in everyday situations where God is at work in big ways. She appreciates books where the characters face shortcomings, temptations, and adversity but always get their happy ending, so that’s what she writes.

CONNECT WITH JAYCEE: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Whatever Happens Next and a handmade mini wreath plus a $15 Amazon gift card!

Whatever Happens Next JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 22, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 29, 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 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!

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

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.