Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Book Spotlight: Walking on Hidden Wings by Rachel Scott McDaniel

Walking on Hidden Wings JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Walking on Hidden Wings by Rachel Scott McDaniel hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book


Walking on Hidden Wings Title: Walking on Hidden Wings: A Novel of the Roaring Twenties 
Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel 
Publisher: Kregel Publications 
Release Date: April 23, 2024 
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Geneva Ashcroft Hayes's marriage to a newspaper mogul might have been arranged, but the New York socialite is devastated when her husband's plane crashes a few short months after their nuptials. When the authorities suspect murder, Geneva sets out on a wild mission to find his killer--and to prove it wasn't her!

When mysterious notes surface pointing to Geneva's guilt in his death, they only strengthen her resolve. She has little to go on except for a detective friend's cryptic list of locations connected to her dead spouse. When the friend also disappears, she trades her sparkling gowns for coveralls and pilot goggles. 

Armed with a new name and career as a wingwalker and barnstormer, she travels from town to town in hopes of unearthing clues and locating her missing friend. But Geneva discovers that her past may not belong to her . . . what she once believed as truth may be nothing more than lies and deception. 

"A tangled web, a sleuthing adventure, a rekindled romance . . . Walking on Hidden Wings has it all."

--Rachel Fordham, author of The Letter Tree 

"Fans of intelligent mysteries, butterfly-inducing romance, and the Roaring Twenties, prepare yourselves--Walking on Hidden Wings will sweep you away to the skies! McDaniel's lyrical prose is a delight, and readers will be fascinated by the daring beginnings of aviation. A true gem." 

--Joanna Barker, author of A Heart Worth Stealing

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop | BookBub


Excerpt


My heartbeat drummed at the base of my throat. I pried my resolve from the murky depths of my mind and took a step forward. Then another. A tremor rocked the plane. I defied the instinct to stoop and brace myself. Instead I stilled, adjusting to the new angle as if the wing were an extension of my feet. Good thing Tex hadn’t jerked the controls. One panicked jolt could’ve knocked me off-balance and into the slicing blades of the propeller.

I strode two remaining paces, positioning close to the wing’s edge, and my gaze swept over the crowd.

Those below had no idea whom they stared at. My stunt in the air wasn’t my only performance. Nor my most dangerous one. That particular act had begun the moment I’d run away from the glitter. For I’d shed the vulnerable identity of golden-haired Geneva Ashcroft Hayes, society’s angel, to become raven-locked Stella Starling, showman of the skies.

(pg 10)

About the Author

Rachel Scott McDaniel

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. She currently enjoys life in Ohio with her husband and two kids.

Connect with Rachel by visiting rachelmcdaniel.net to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of the book plus book-related extras!

Walking on Hidden Wings JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 1, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on May 8, 2024. 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

Monday, April 29, 2024

Book Review: The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple by Joanna Davidson Politano

About the Book:



In the search for the truth, the line between fact and fiction is beginning to fall out of focus.

It is 1903, and Lily Temple is a beautiful silent-film actress who spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera. But beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit, a murky past, and a tantalizing secret.

Underground investigator to the wealthy, Peter Driscoll has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire that has been missing for years--and which Lily happens to be wearing beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and unravel the mystery, Peter employs the enchanting actress's help on a case.

But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it becomes that he needs her even more than she needs him.

 Read an excerpt on the publisher's website.

My Thoughts:


The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple by Joanna Davidson Politano commenced with a time jump (of sorts) that generated lingering confusion for me. I continually questioned how the pieces of the story could fit together while wondering if Lily was telling the truth. The novel has an appropriate title, and mystery lovers will likely enjoy the tangles and twists of the tale.

My favorite parts of The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple lay in its themes. Politano effectively demonstrated the power of story and the concept that our stories tend to come full circle. I loved the restoration theme as well as the tidbits about the soul's desire to return to its deep longings, whether it's a personal yearning or a universal desire shared by humanity. Such themes aren't often explored in Christian Fiction, and I found them refreshing.

Because I struggled to connect with Lily, The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple was not my favorite novel by Joanna Davidson Politano, but it was well-written and held depth without feeling heavy. For those who love fairy tales, the imagery and allusions will add delight. The story is best suited for readers who enjoy mystery, whimsy, and a slow burn romance.




Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Author Interview: The Lost and Found by Jennifer Carr



About the Book



Book: The Lost and Found

Author: Jennifer Carr

Genre: Christian Suspense

Release Date: June 1, 2023

In the small quiet town of Owenston, Kentucky, former FBI agent Mark Collins has found a new purpose as the county Sheriff. Married and enjoying the prospect of becoming a father for a second time, Mark’s life seems picture-perfect. But when a series of petty thefts turns into a murder investigation, Mark’s peaceful life takes an unexpected turn.

With his steadfast resolve and unwavering faith, Mark embarks on a race against time to catch a killer, but as he digs deeper, he realizes that the case is more complex than he ever imagined, and danger hits closer to home than he could have anticipated.

The Lost and Found is a Christian suspense novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat, blending thrilling intrigue with heartwarming moments. Mark’s unwavering commitment to justice, his ever-expanding family, and his unwavering faith in God make for a gripping tale of redemption, hope, and love. Can Mark untangle the web of secrets and find a way to heal the wounds of the past? Discover the truth in this captivating story of courage, compassion, and the power of love.

Click here to get your copy!


About the Author



A wife, mom, author, marriage and family counselor, a former AP Psychology teacher, and a podcaster, Jennifer draws from her life experiences and imagination to connect with her readers and listeners through the written and spoken word.

Married to her childhood best friend and the mom of a creative daughter, Jennifer enjoys a quiet life on their farm in Alabama. When she’s not wearing one of her many hats, you’ll find her tucked away with a book and what’s likely her third coffee of the day.  


Author Interview with Jennifer


Q: What was the inspiration behind this novel?

Jennifer: The Lost and Found is book two of the No Matter What series (don’t worry, it can be read as a standalone!). I needed to know that my characters were in a good place after the first book because as crazy as it sounds, the characters I write may as well be real people to me.

More than that, I felt like Mark Collins had some growing to do which I think he does beautifully throughout the book.


Q: How long did it take you to write this novel?

Jennifer: That’s a tough one because there’s not a cut and dried answer. I started writing it the day after I sent its predecessor to the editor which was in April 2022. The story’s beginning and end flowed until it didn’t. I hit a huge creative block and decided to step away for a couple of months. A couple of days after New Year’s 2023 I poured a week into it and wrapped it up. It went through edits and beta reads and was published in June 2023!


Q: What was the most surprising thing you discovered while researching and writing this novel?

Jennifer: I don’t know that it was surprising but I had fun asking my dad (a former law enforcement officer) questions about procedures and tactics!


Q: Do any of the novel’s characters hold a special place in your heart?

Jennifer: I love Marí, who you really get to meet in No Matter What but my love for her just carried over because she was inspired by a number of people we met one summer in the Dominican Republic as we pursued our own adoption (which is another long and tragic story for another day). The people and the culture in the D.R. is beautiful and I wanted Jess to have someone in her life pouring out love and truth in her darkest of days just like we did.

But also, Cal – he is just… he’s everything you would want in a man who might step up as a father figure, a grandfather figure, and a friend. His wisdom is solid and his heart is made of gold.


Q: Do you have a favorite quote from this novel?

Jennifer: As a matter of fact, I do. It’s more of an excerpt that I love. It comes from a point in the novel where Jess’s past and her present are clashing and it’s producing a lot of emotions she hasn’t quite processed completely.

Grief can be a funny thing, as I’ve learned. There are days it makes you grateful for the time you had. Then there are moments like this that dredge up parts of the past that hurt and bring up reminders of days best forgotten. And that’s something else I’ve learned – Time may heal old wounds, but the scars left behind are never erased, unable to be forgotten.


Q: What do you hope readers take away from this novel?

Jennifer: Family are the people who love you unconditionally regardless of their blood-relation. And when you’re part of God’s family, you’re never alone – even in the most hopeless of situations.


Q: If the novel was made into a movie, who would like you to see play the main characters?

Jennifer: Oooo This is a FUN question! And it’s actually one I’ve thought about a few times.

Mark: If Jim Caviezel was about 15 years younger he’d be my first pick BUT since he isn’t, I think Chris Pratt would make a fantastic Mark Collins
Jess: Alexa PenaVega
John: John Schneider
Deborah: Patricia Heaton
Marí: Liza Colón-Zayas
Cal would 100% be Sam Elliot


Q: Would you share something about yourself that most readers wouldn’t know?

Jennifer: Before I was an adult, I thought Christian Fiction/Christian Romance Novels were only for old ladies haha! We can all interpret that the way we need to before moving on.


Q: In what setting do you enjoy writing the most? 

Jennifer: I love my office and desk area. I have a sit and stand desk so I can move when I start getting antsy. My desk is full of fidgets that I can manipulate while I’m thinking or daydreaming. I can’t listen to music while I write because music is as distracting as a good book. Even instrumental music will distract me.


Q: What are you reading now?

Jennifer: I am currently re-listening to the Harry Potter series – I’m on Book 4.


Q: How many bookshelves are in your home?


Jennifer: Surprisingly, fewer than most people think considering how much I read. The answer is currently three though I am debating a fourth. Most of my reading is e-book or audiobook because I don’t have room for a library. My next house, however…


Q: Who is an author you would recommend to anyone and everyone?

Jennifer: Jenny B. Jones is a consistent high rating author for me as is Carina Taylor and Sarah Adams!


Q: What do you like to do when you aren't writing?

Jennifer: I host a podcast for creatives and I co-host a podcast for authors. If I’m not podcasting, writing, or scrolling social media, I’m reading!


Q: Where can readers find out more about you and your novel?

Jennifer: My website, jcarrwrites.com, has links to all of my books, my works in progress, and the bonus materials like deleted scenes and bonus epilogues.

If you want to get to know me, I have a Facebook page and a TikTok channel that I utilize most frequently and I LOVE interacting with readers and other authors. @jcarrwrites (for both)



More from Jennifer

The Lost and Found is the second book of the No Matter What series but can be read as a standalone. I needed to make sure my characters were happy and healthy after their adventures in the book one so the day I sent No Matter What to my editor, I started writing The Lost and Found.

I love to bake and when I was pregnant with our daughter, I craved all things sweet. One of the characters in the book has a similar craving so I created a recipe for her to enjoy. I’d love to share it with you.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZUJhegaRSkQtwlG1Rk0UU-iYxTSJIPHg/view?usp=sharing


Blog Stops


Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 17

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 18 (Author Interview)

Pause for Tales, April 18

Texas Book-aholic, April 19

Lakesidelivingsite, April 20

Artistic Nobody, April 21 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 23

Cover Lover Book Review, April 24

Beauty in the Binding, April 25 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 26

Blogging With Carol, April 27

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 28 (Author Interview)

Exploring the Written Word, April 28

For Him and My Family, April 29


Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize package of a Six Month Subscription to Kindle Unlimited ($60 value) 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.

Link for giveaway: https://promosimple.com/ps/2afa4/the-lost-and-found-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Book Spotlight: Yukon Wilderness Evidence by Darlene L. Turner

Yukon Wilderness Evidence JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Yukon Wilderness Evidence by Darlene L. Turner, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Yukon Wilderness Evidence

Title: Yukon Wilderness Evidence
Series:
Crisis Rescue Team Series #5
Author:
Darlene L. Turner
Publisher:
Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date:
April 23, 2024
Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Solving a cold case could rob her of her future. 

When skeletal remains are uncovered in the Yukon forest, forensic botanist Keeley Ash is called to the crime scene—and ends up abducted. She never expects her ex, paramedic Brett Ryerson, to come to her rescue, or her gathered evidence to be linked to a cold case. And when their son—who Brett never knew existed—is kidnapped, they’ll stop at nothing to save him and outrun the hunters determined to silence Keeley.  

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop| BookBub


Excerpt


“Wait!” Brett ran after her. “He could still be dangerous.”

Keeley knelt beside the man and lifted the bandana from his face. She sucked in a breath. “I’ve seen him before.”

“Where?”

She paused as if searching her memory. “I don’t remember.”

Brett placed his fingers on the man’s neck. “He’s gone.” He searched his pockets for some type of identification but only found a picture.

He gazed at it intently. A redheaded boy wearing a backpack, leaving a school with a woman. He handed the photo to Keeley. “Do you know this boy?”

She looked at the picture and blasted upright. “No!”

He pushed himself to his feet, grazing her arm. “Keels, who is it?”

Her eyes widened before softening. “My—your son.”

What?

He had a son?

And now the boy was in danger.


More Books In This Series

Fatal Forensic Investigation Explosive Christmas Showdown Mountain Abduction Rescue  


About the Author

Darlene L. Turner

Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message.

Connect with Darlene at darlenelturner.com, where there’s suspense beyond borders, to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(4) winners will each win a $25 Amazon egift card!

Yukon Wilderness Evidence JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 23, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 30, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

Monday, April 22, 2024

Book Spotlight: A Secret Between Them by Donna Gartshore

A Secret Between Them JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Secret Between Them by Donna Gartshore, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

A Secret Between Them

Title: A Secret Between Them 
Author:
Donna Gartshore
Publisher:
Love Inspired
Release Date:
April 23, 2024
Genre:
Inspirational Contemporary Romance

She’ll help him heal… 

But is love enough to make him stay? 

Unexpectedly injured, photojournalist John Bishop finds himself stuck in a town full of painful memories—with physical therapist Grace Severight his only way out. Following her treatment should be simple. But soon John’s falling again—this time for the single foster mom and her four-year-old charge. Now love might heal his past…but will a secret Grace is keeping destroy their chance at a future?  

From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop| BookBub


Excerpt


John Bishop had traveled extensively and done everything from balance on the edge of a cliff to swim with sharks, all to capture the perfect photo. So it was more than a little humiliating to be brought down by a child’s skipping rope.

He didn’t know that kids still jumped rope, or maybe they just did things like that in places like Living Skies, Saskatchewan, a place with the kind of homespun charm that could make you believe that life was all about jumping rope, singing songs in church and baking apple pies.

Of course, John knew from experience that not everything in Living Skies was picture-perfect.

The pain that ripped through him when he tried to shift to a more comfortable position wasn’t just from his badly sprained ankle.

John suppressed a moan, but the receptionist at the front counter of the Elmview Physical Therapy Clinic still looked up with a sympathetic smile.

“The physical therapist is almost finished with her current client,” she said encouragingly. “She’ll be with you soon.”

John nodded, stoic again.

Also Available

Finding Her Voice 


About the Author

Donna Gartshore

Publishers Weekly best selling author Donna Gartshore lives in Saskatchewan, Canada. Donna is so grateful to be able to tell stories of faith, hope and second chances for Love Inspired. She also writes devotionals and the occasional poem or short story. Donna loves time with her family, personal and group Bible study, long chats with friends over dinner or coffee and engaging in discussions about books and writing with her local and online writing communities.

Connect with Donna on social media at Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each win a print copy of Finding Her Voice, Finding Their Christmas Home and A Secret Between Them, plus an inspirational bookmark!

A Secret Between Them JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 22, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 29, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

Sunday, April 21, 2024

Book Review: These Tangled Threads by Sarah Loudin Thomas

 About the Book:


Set in the shadow of Biltmore Estate, a poignant tale of friendship, restoration, and second chances.

Seven years ago, a hidden betrayal scattered three young friends living in the shadow of the great Vanderbilt mansion. Now, when Biltmore Industries master weaver Lorna Blankenship is commissioned to create an original design for Cornelia Vanderbilt's 1924 wedding, she panics knowing she doesn't have the creativity needed. But there's an elusive artisan in the Blue Ridge Mountains who could save her--if only she knew where to begin.

To track down the mysterious weaver, Lorna sees no other way than to seek out the relationships she abandoned in shame. As she pulls at each tangled thread from her past, Lorna is forced to confront the wounds and regrets of life long ago. She'll have to risk the job that shapes her identity, as well as the hope of friendship--and love--restored.


My Thoughts:

Like a handwoven fabric, the story in These Tangled Threads took time to form and held complexity. I confess, Gentry’s attitudes and Lorna’s actions early on made it difficult for me to like them and be invested in their narratives. The time jumps and character switches also added to my disconnect. However, my admiration of Sarah Loudin Thomas’ prior novels compelled me to continue reading. Within the pages, I found well-crafted prose and pleasing depth as the story explored guilt, shame, alcohol addiction, and family dysfunction. These hard topics were offset by kindness, faith, forgiveness, and generosity which added a heartwarming feel.

Since reading These Tangled Threads by Sarah Loudin Thomas, I’ve started examining cloth – skirts, blankets, scarves, etc – trying to determine the warp and the weft. Early on, the author introduced the process of handweaving cloth, an essential element of the story. With so many terms and steps, I found it necessary to watch a video to understand the procedure; however, learning about this subject fascinated me and it was my main takeaway from the novel. Although These Tangled Threads is not my favorite book by Sarah Loudin Thomas, I’ll continue reading her books.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.