Chromatic by Ashley Bustamante // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Chromatic

Author: Ashley Bustamante

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release Date: May 7, 2024

Light is Found in Every Hue

Magus is dying from the inside out, and only the destruction of the barrier can save it. Even color magic can’t defend against earthquakes, strange weather patterns, and erratic wildlife behavior.

After discovering hundreds of captive Yellow magic-users, Ava and Elm fight to set them free. However, new dangers and unexpected enemies await at every turn, forcing them to face their greatest challenges yet. The calamities inside the barrier slowly manifest in the outside world as well, pulling citizens from both sides of the battle into the fray. In this new war, they may not all make it out alive.

Elm and Ava must confront the growing darkness and create a future in a world that has been all but stripped of hope. Can Magus be restored, or is it already too late?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

Can Ava, Elm, and their friends finish what they started? In a land where colors represent magic, and some have been suppressed for far too long, can they win the fight for a brighter future?

Picking up right where the previous book left off, Ava and Elm, are pioneering a new world that involves partnering powers and the use of the forbidden yellow. Ava and her friends must face foes old and new, uncovering even deeper secrets, and working together to build new relationships and strengthen old bonds. 

Spellbinding world building, and excellent character development, in this action-packed fantasy, make for a gripping adventure. Strong themes of fighting for what's right, second chances, forgiveness. A satisfying conclusion, filled with suspense, and strong character arcs. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Ashley Bustamante has created stories from the moment she could scribble and staple sheets of paper together. She simply cannot recall a time when writing was not a force in her life. When not running through lines of dialogue in her mind, she enjoys taking photographs and spending time with her husband, three children, and any furry, feathered, or scaly creature she can find. She currently works at Arizona State University.

 

 

 

More from Ashley

Sitting down to write the final installment of the Color Theory series was an emotional experience. I wanted to do well by my readers and do well by God. And of course, I wanted to stay true to the story I set out to write in the beginning.

One of the difficult things about writing this book is that I knew the characters were going to have to face higher stakes and deeper pain than ever before. Given the situation they are in, it had to be that way. But, in spite of what Ava, Elm, and crew will face in Chromatic, this is ultimately a story of hope and triumph.

As I’ve watched the struggles of the world right now and seen what so many readers are going through, I knew I wanted to tell a tale of perseverance. No matter how bleak our circumstances may be, we can still find the light.

I hope you enjoy Chromatic!

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 23

Artistic Nobody, May 24 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, May 24

Texas Book-aholic, May 25

Through the Fire Blogs, May 26 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 27

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 28

Blossoms and Blessings, May 29 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 30

Blogging With Carol, May 31

Beauty in the Binding, June 1 (Author Interview)

Min Reads and Reviews, June 1

Labor Not in Vain, June 2

Guild Master, June 3 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, June 4 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Vicky Sluiter, June 5 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Ashley is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a hardcover 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/2b9d4/chromatic-celebration-tour-giveaway

To Catch a Coronet by Grace Hitchcock // Just Read

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for To Catch a Coronet by Grace Hitchcock hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: To Catch a Coronet 

Series: Best Laid Plans #1 

Author: Grace Hitchcock 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: May 21, 2024 

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Sometimes the only way to outsmart a scandal is to find a crown big enough to silence it

Muriel Beau, country baker turned heiress, can't stop instigating outrage. She discards two arranged engagements, then further antagonizes Kent society by publicly proposing to a baron at a ball. His rejection leaves her with no choice but to flee to the city and to secure a coronet so splendid that her peers will forget her debacles. The glitter of the London courts convinces Muriel that it's possible to find the future she dreams of, until she finds herself entangled in yet another escapade--one that may cost her more than her crumbling reputation. 

After years of serving as a privateer under an assumed name, Captain Erik Draycott, heir to Draycott Castle and soon to assume his uncle's title of Earl, returns to his London home to find it in disrepair thanks to his longtime nemesis. A staunch bachelor intent on returning to his ship, the captain is shocked when his mentor encourages him to take a wife. But while his alleged pauper status causes the potential London brides to turn their noses up at him, the ladies of Kent have no such qualms and are eager to fill his coffers with their fathers' wealth. 

Caught in a whirlwind of high society and high seas, Muriel and Erik navigate a risky undertaking that threatens their futures and creating stakes that soar above the masts of Erik's ship. Will Muriel's bold charm and Erik's daring bravery be enough to outsmart the scandal and secure a future as glittering as the crown Muriel seeks? 

"To Catch a Coronet by Grace Hitchcock is perfect Regency! This hilarious novel has it all: sparkling dialogue, a spunky heroine with a penchant for baking, and a dreamy hero who loves her in spite of her antics. I loved it and highly recommend!" --Colleen Coble, USA Today best-selling author of Fragile Designs

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

My Review: 

After a disastrous proposal gone wrong, Muriel, sets her sights on making an advantageous match in London, but finds herself swept away by a man more dashing than her wildest dreams. 

An endearing historical rom-com, with a delightful heroine that I couldn't help but adore. Muriel is daring and creative, at times impulsive, but she has the best of intentions. An entertaining read with an enjoyable romance, likable heroes, and a healthy dose of intrigue. 

Erik Draycott is a man with a strong moral code, and a low tolerance for devious games. I loved how he saw Muriel's heart, and was attracted to her for all the right reasons. 

Overall, this was such a wonderful read from beginning to end. Each book by this author just gets better and better! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

---

About the Author

Grace Hitchcock is the award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives on the Northshore of New Orleans with her husband, Dakota, sons, and daughter.

Connect with Grace by visiting gracehitchcockbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of To Catch a Coronet, a bookmark, and book-themed goodies!

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 29, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 5, 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!

Shielding the Innocent Target by Terri Reed // Review

Lucie's Review: 

After witnessing the murder of her boss, Paige Walsh finds herself and her son the target of a murderer, and under the protection of Deputy Marshall Lucas Cavendish, as they race against time to stay alive. 

A fast paced adventure, with great characters and a gripping plot. Kenny is a great kid, and I loved how he and Lucas bond while they are on the run. Getting caught up in witnessing a murder is the last thing Paige expected, she does a great job of putting one foot in front of the other in the face of all the what ifs. I liked how she and Lucas worked together to keep Kenny safe, and how they bonded over shared faith. 

A thrilling adventure that kept me guessing, with great characters, an engaging plot, and solid themes of faith and trusting God to provide. Lucas jumps into action to keep Paige and Kenny safe, I admired his taking time to understand Kenny, and his strong faith. A satisfying action-packed read, highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Jewel of the Nile by Tessa Afshar // Review

My Review: 

Chariline has always been curious about her mysterious heritage, raised by her aunt she has heard bits and pieces of her story, but longs for the truth. When she gets the opportunity to seek answers in Rome she stows away on a ship, but finds herself followed by someone who doesn't want her to find the answers she seeks. 

A touching story of friendship, family, and faith. I loved reuniting with Theo from a previous book, and how he and Chariline brought out the best in each other, both seeing the true value in the other person. 

A highly enjoyable read, I loved how all the pieces started to come together as the suspense grew. A heartfelt and engaging story, with a twisting storyline that kept me on my toes. So happy to see Theo again in this story!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Marcus and the Emperor's Coin by Dennis Conrad, illustrated by Courtney Smith // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

 

Book: Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin

Author: Dennis Conrad

Genre: Christian Children’s Picture Book

Release date: October 30, 2023

Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin is an exciting adventure in the Ancient Roman Empire at the time of Christ. Eight-year-old Marcus and his father are on a mission for the Emperor and visit a mine and a mint where coins are made. Marcus himself makes a denarius, a coin with the emperor’s image.

Marcus goes to Jerusalem where he sees Jesus hold a denarius saying, “Give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” What will seeing Jesus mean for Marcus, and will he ever be the same again?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

Young Marcus and his father embark on an important mission for the the Emperor, facing many dangers along the way. 

A fun book to read with the whole family. Marcus wants to be a help to his father, and tries his best to stay out of trouble, though at times his curiosity gets the better of him! I loved how we learn more about the denarii and how it was made, as we travel with Marcus. There are also solid messages about doing what is right, and giving to God what is God's. 

Overall, such a great book, with a encouraging story that includes fun facts and cool history. I loved the solid themes of a solid father son relationship, doing your best, courage, and trusting God. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

A former coin collector for over fifty years, Dennis combines his love for the Bible, children’s literature, and sharing stories about the history behind coins.

Dennis retired as a professor of speech communications from Barstow Community College. He and his wife served as English and public speaking teachers ten summers overseas.

Dennis became a sustaining member of the Numismatic Association of Southern California in 1979. He is also a life member of the American Numismatic Association.

Dennis is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and a Fellow of the National Writing Project.

More from Dennis

How to Turn a Penny into a Teachable Moment

Dennis Conrad

Connect with your child or grandchild by starting a coin collection.

Start with the penny, also known as the Lincoln Head Cent. The coins were first minted in 1909 because it was the 100^th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth.

Use the coin to help your child make the connections with who Lincoln was, what he did, and when he lived. Reasons why Abraham Lincoln is featured on a coin include the following:

1. Lincoln is often at the top of the list of America’s greatest presidents.
2. He helped to preserve the Union during the American Civil War.
3. His Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves.
4. The Gettysburg Address ranks as one of the best speeches of all time.

Now, Look On the Back (the Reverse)

Go through change to find the different images on the backs of pennies.

There are wheat ears (1909-1958) and the Lincoln Memorial (1959-2008).

To celebrate the 200^th anniversary of his birth, the U.S. Mint issued coins with four different images on the back. The Lincoln Bicentennial (2009) coins include a log cabin, Lincoln sitting on a log, Lincoln standing in front of the state capitol of Illinois, and an unfinished U.S. Capitol Building (the way it was when he was president.) For the past several years, there has is a shield on the back representing the preserved union (2010-Present).

Add one of each reverse to the child’s collection.

Don’t forget to mention the words, the date, and the mintmark.

The words include “One Cent,” “In God We Trust,” “Liberty,” “The United States of America,” and “E Pluribus Unum” which means “Out of many, one.”

Also, look for and find the year minted and the mintmark.

Find and add a coin from the child’s birth year to the child’s collection.

Look at the mintmark. It is a letter on the front of the coin under the date. The “D” is for Denver, the “S” for San Francisco, and the absence of a mintmark means the coin was minted in Philadelphia.

Add coins with the different mintmarks to the child’s collection.

Keep the collection safe in a small box or a Ziploc bag. Have fun. Add to the collection as time goes by.

Free Resources

Want to encourage the child in your life to learn more about coins? Sign up at https://dennisconradauthor.com so your child can become a Junior Coin Collector. Receive free, monthly activity sheets like a crossword puzzle. There is a Coin Hunt section where children can search for and find coins in change for their collection, and a Vocabulary Builder section with coin collecting terms.

Blog Stops

Lots of Helpers, May 8

Artistic Nobody, May 9 (Author Interview)

BookZone Reviews , May 9

Vicky Sluiter, May 10

Texas Book-aholic, May 11

Beauty in the Binding, May 12 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 13

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 14

Hannahbandanarama, May 15

Guild Master, May 16 (Author Interview)

Lights in a Dark World, May 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 19 (Author Interview)

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, May 20

Labor Not in Vain, May 21

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Dennis is giving away the grand prize package of a $100 Amazon gift card and a signed hardback 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/2b7c8/marcus-and-the-emperor-s-coin-celebration-tour-giveaway

Educating Elizabeth by Jennifer Moore // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Elizabeth Miller has a large heart for England's underprivileged  girls and has poured herself into running a school to help them. Her funds are running low so she makes a deal with a man she despises, and is surprised to find that the image he projects to the world is not who he really is. 

An engaging read, with likable characters, and a moving premise. I loved seeing Charles away from the city, connecting with others over shared passions, and his attention to detail. He has a big heart, and it was fun to see Elizabeth get to know him and Alice. Elizabeth is a good teacher, and does a great job with Alice. 

Overall, an enjoyable read with heart, romance, and humor. Engaging story with great characters. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

To Catch a Coronet by Grace Hitchcock // Review

My Review: 

After a disastrous proposal gone wrong, Muriel, sets her sights on making an advantageous match in London, but finds herself swept away by a man more dashing than her wildest dreams. 

An endearing historical rom-com, with a delightful heroine that I couldn't help but adore. Muriel is daring and creative, at times impulsive, but she has the best of intentions. An entertaining read with an enjoyable romance, likable heroes, and a healthy dose of intrigue. 

Erik Draycott is a man with a strong moral code, and a low tolerance for devious games. I loved how he saw Muriel's heart, and was attracted to her for all the right reasons. 

Overall, this was such a wonderful read from beginning to end. Each book by this author just gets better and better! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Loyally, Luke by Pepper Basham // Just Read

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Loyally, Luke by Pepper Basham hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Loyally, Luke 

Series: Skymar #3 

Author: Pepper Basham 

Publisher: Thomas Nelson 

Release Date: May 14, 2024 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Sometimes love means embracing the good, the bad. . . and even the impossible.

Dear Reader -- My name is Luke Edgewood, and there are few things in life that I require. Mainly black coffee. And flannel. And lots of solitude. And my dogs, Chewy and Indie. What I don't need is romance, so I have no plans to change my thirty-year-old bachelor status anytime soon. 

But my youngest sister thinks that by accepting a short-term construction job in the small European country of Skymar, that I'm going to follow along in her footsteps and discover my own romantic adventure. Nope. Bah humbug. The End. This time, her rom-com-movie senses are totally wrong. 

Or maybe not. Because I've met a Grace Kelly lookalike who is annoying. . . until she isn't. But she is impossible. As in, nothing can happen between us because she is a literal princess. Even though that's easy to forget when we're working together to restore a castle-like orphanage in a secluded mountain town and "forced proximity" includes a small closet, a secret one-hundred-year-old journal, and the tactile memory of an off-limits royal in my arms. 

Basically, the whole situation has turned into an ooey gooey magical snow globe of romantic tropes complete with cute kids and an actual ball. Now, even my sentences are starting to sound like mush. Ugh. Send high levels of testosterone my way--I'm going to need it. 

Loyally, Luke

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

My Review: I love Luke Edgewood. The long-suffering lone brother. Allergic to anything on the Hallmark channel, practical, and uncannily wise. 

The long-awaited third book in the Edgewood siblings series, brings Luke to Skymar to work on saving an orphanage alongside Princess Ellie. Luke has been my favorite since the very first book in the series, in all his flanneled glory and Rambo watching ways. It was so fun to see him begrudgingly stumble into his own fairy tale, his humor is spot on with multitudes of astute quips. 

I loved the humor balanced with depth, as well as the amazing bond between the siblings. A delightfully upbeat read, that put a smile on my face repeatedly until my cheeks hurt, but even then I couldn't put it down. 

Overall, a wonderfully enjoyable book that I devoured, full of humor, chemistry, and faith. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

More Books in this Series

 

---

About the Author

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.

Connect with Pepper by visiting pepperdbasham.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of the book, tool pens, and $25 Amazon gift card!

(1) additional winner will receive a signed copy of the book!

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 15, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on May 22, 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!

Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp // Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Darkness Calls the Tiger: A Novel of World War II Burma
Author: Janyre Tromp
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Release Date: May 14, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Imperial Japan devours the southern portion of Burma, intent on taking over mainland Asia. Unaware of the coming darkness, Kailyn Moran drifts in her role as the only daughter of a widowed missionary. 

As whispers of war snake through the Kachin mountains, Kai's father is convinced God will protect the mission. He entrusts the village to her and the kind yet inexperienced new missionary, Ryan McDonough, while he makes routine visits to neighboring villages. 

War descends like a tempest upon the mountain peaks, and an unbreakable bond forms between Kailyn and Ryan as they unite to provide solace to both villagers and the flood of refugees. Despite their tireless efforts, a brutal enemy shatters almost everything they love, pushing Kailyn to embark on a path of unrestrained vengeance. 

Afraid he's losing the woman he loves, Ryan fights to protect Kai from the deadly consequences of her choices. But in the face of destruction, can he convince her of the power and freedom of forgiveness? 

"Evocative and transportive, filled with nuance and spiked with the violence of war, Darkness Calls the Tiger is a story of redemption in the midst of hopelessness." --Tosca Lee, New York Times best-selling author

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

Review: 

An emotionally gripping read that brings the gritty realities of how WWII touched Burma to life in this heart wrenchingly beautiful story of redemption and forgiveness. 

A wonderfully evocative and well researched read that transported me to the jungles of Burma. A heavier read, with a powerful message of hope through it all. Truly a story that sticks with you, beautifully written with care taken on the more difficult parts of the story. 

Overall, an inspiring story of hope and the power of God to change a life. I loved the artful use of the tiger throughout, and the friendship between Kailyn and Ryan. Highly recommend this gripping read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

---

About the Author

Janyre Tromp is a developmental book editor who has worked in the publishing industry for more than twenty years, spending time in both marketing and editorial. She's the author of Shadows in the Mind's Eye and contributor to It's a Wonderful Christmas, a Christmas novella collection with other award-winning authors, including Julie Cantrell and Lynne Gentry. When she isn’t writing, she’s a Bible study leader, writers conference speaker, ACFW member, wife, and mom of two kids and their menagerie of slightly eccentric pets.

Connect with Janyre at janyretromp.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed copy of Darkness Calls the Tiger, a bookmark, and other book-themed goodies!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 13, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 20, 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

---

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

Flashpoint by Susan May Warren // Just Read

Review: 

Spenser Storm is ready to make his Hollywood comeback with a Western set in the mountains of Montana, but things keep going wrong on set. Can he and firefighter Emily tame the flames before they get out of hand? 

An action packed read that melds the wild beauty of Montana with the glitz of Hollywood, when Emily Micah finds herself working on the set of a new drama starring her favorite actor, Spenser Storm. An engaging read with likable protagonists, strong themes of faith, and a mystery that kept me guessing. I really liked how Emily and Spenser became friends, bonding over faith, and trusting their futures to God. They have great chemistry, it was fun seeing their relationship grow as they navigated all the challenges and dangers in their paths. 

A fantastic start to a new series that blends the best of faith filled romantic suspense, with a high stakes plot, and strong themes of faith over fear. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/44eZeVw