Vanessa Hall's Blog, page 30
January 27, 2022
Beyond Her Calling Blog Tour: Review
Ivy Knight feels that her life may never start. Though her loving family assures her that her place in the world is close to home, she still feels a push to move out of her comfort zone. Hoping against hope, she travels to her old friends at McCale House, seeking a purpose.
Jordy McAllen has just returned to Scotland after his education in London. He fears that what everyone has always said about him may be true: he can’t be a good doctor, let alone a good man. Determined to prove himself, Jordy snatches up the opportunity to become the doctor in the village of Keefmore near his parents’ farm.
When an old friend decides to travel to Keefmore and visit a relative, Ivy follows. She soon finds herself drawn to Jordy, but as their attraction grows, they both face doubts. A relationship between the two of them feels improbable—and might just require a step of impossible faith.
GoodreadsAmazonKellyn’s kickoff post!My Review
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Having read the third book of the series, At Her Fingertips, I was intrigued to see what Ivy’s story held. (She was my favorite character, after all.) And little did I know what was coming at me – a grand trip to Scotland!
Characters: Let’s start with Ivy. Sweet, innocent Ivy. She’s one of those characters who might’ve been too perfect, but it didn’t bother me at all. She’s just Ivy. I loved how the author wrote her inner dialogue – it was quite unique and true to who she was. Simple, but honest and so kind. her willingness to go wherever the Lord called her just showed what type of person she was. And of course, the music references were so much fun! Onto Jordy … dude was just a straight-up, wholesome, Scottish sheepherder-turned-doctor. (Mostly wholesome, but more on that later.) I really enjoyed his character. He again might’ve bordered on the too perfect side of things at first, but he definitely proved me wrong. And I also believe Ivy looked at him as somewhat of an exalted figure, so that might’ve accounted for his perceived perfection. Anyway … he as well was so kind, and such a gentleman. I think he made the perfect country doctor. And for the other characters … Violet was intense. I got annoyed at her, felt sorry for her, understood her … the whole slew of feelings. Ena was such a sweetheart, and Aunt Daphne was also so cool! She was great fun.
Plot/Setting: This book was set in Scotland, and if you don’t leave speaking with a Scottish accent, you are an incredibly strong person! But to be honest, the setting in Scotland was pastoral and quaint. The plot, overall, was pretty chill. This is not full of action and intrigue, but there’s enough character development to keep the ball rolling. Overall, the story was paced pretty well, although the last 15% or so dragged on for me a bit. I just knew what was coming, so I wanted resolution!
Theme/Morals: Judging from the title, you can see a lot of what this book touched on. I loved Ivy’s determination to find her calling, wherever and whatever that was. And of course, she went beyond everyone’s expectations of her – go Ivy! It was lovely to see her seek God’s Will and walk in it even when it was difficult or confusing. And of course, her kindness to Violet and speaking truth into Violet’s life just showed how wonderful of a friend she was. Jordy’s side of things was a bit more sketchy, at least for me. His main moral was dealing with past failings and the consequences that come with those. It was good to see him work through realizing the Lord had forgiven him but consequences still remained on earth. However, this part of the plot was probably my least favorite. Jordy’s six months of going wild (complete with drinking, gambling, and women) presented an obvious roadblock between his and Ivy’s relationship. Although this is quite realistic, and I appreciated how the author addressed it, I was just wasn’t too big into going through all of their ponderings and distress over it. (This was the last 20% or so.) However, these issues are real-life, and I thought they were well-discussed and an important fact of life for some people to face.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I’m not the biggest fan of historical British books, but I loved the Scottish setting and the easy pacing. The writing style was quite nice and fit the book well. I’ll be on the lookout for the next in the series!
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
–Beyond Her Calling in paperback
-The first three novels in Audible (audiobook) format
-A painted ornament by Painted Prose Designs
-Tea (!)
Enter here!Scavenger Hunt-Begin at Stop #1 and continue on to the final post. At the end of each post, you’ll find a CLUE and a LINK to the next stop. Progress to each stop in order.
-Collect all the clues and submit the full phrase at the last blog stop via the linked form to enter the giveaway.
-While you’re at each stop, be sure to comment, as each comment wins you another entry in the Blog Tour Giveaway.
-Deadline for entries is Monday, January 31st, at 10 AM Pacific Standard Time.
Grand Prize:
-$25 Amazon Gift Card
-The first four novels in The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy in paperback
-Bookish socks
Clue: aLinkAbout the Author
Kellyn Roth is a historical romance & women’s fiction author who writes about the empty places where hope has the most room to grow. Her novels include the inspirational Victorian family saga, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy, and the Kees & Colliers series, which follows a broken family in the tumultuous years of the first half of the 20th century.
Kellyn is a student of the Author Conservatory, a virtual assistant, and a writing coach. When not building her author career, she is likely getting lost somewhere in the Pacific Northwest with her friends, watching period dramas and facetious comedies, or spending time with her husband.
ConnectBlog Tour ScheduleSaturday, January 22nd
Kickoff Post by Kellyn Roth @ Lilacs and Reveries
“Why Christian Fiction is an Important Genre” — Guest Post Written for Jane Mouttet @ Library Lady’s Kid Lit
Sunday, January 23rd
3 — Review of Beyond Her Calling by Hannah E.M. @ Precarious Bookstacks
4 — Interview with the Author by Grace A. Johnson
Monday, January 24th
A Post about Ivy & Jordy by Kellyn Roth @ Lilacs and Reveries
6Review of Beyond Her Calling by Jane Mouttet @ Library Lady’s Kid Lit
Interview with the Author & Review of Beyond Her Calling by Esther Jackson @ ‘Neath the Hackberry Reading Club
Tuesday, January 25th
“Handling Tough Topics with Respect to Historical Accuracy” — Guest Post Written for Michaela Bush @ Tangled Up in Writing
Wednesday, January 26th
A Post about My Other Characters by Kellyn Roth @ Lilacs and Reveries
Review of Beyond Her Calling by Grace A. Johnson
Thursday, January 27th
Review of Beyond Her Calling by Vanessa Hall
Review of Beyond Her Calling by Hannah Killian @ The Writerly Worm
Friday, January 28th
A Post about Scotland by Kellyn Roth @ Lilacs and Reveries
Review of Beyond Her Calling by Marguerite Martin Gray
“Why Christian Fiction CAN End with a Kiss” — Guest Post Written for Grace A. Johnson
Saturday, January 29th
“My Least Favorite Christian Fiction Tropes” — Guest Post Written for Merie Shen @ Imperial Scribis
Review of Beyond Her Calling by Megan Jones @ Why I Read
Review of Beyond Her Calling by Katja L. @ Old-Fashioned Book Love
Review of Beyond Her Calling by Alexa Mintah @ Thus Far
Final Post by Kellyn Roth @ Lilacs and Reveries
Monday, January 31st
Wrapup Post by Kellyn Roth @ Lilacs and Reveries
January 24, 2022
Author Interview: Stephanie Daniels, Author of The Uncertainty of Fire
Today, I have a very lovely guest joining me on the blog! I met Stephanie through blogging, and I recently read some of her YA historical fiction book, The Uncertainty of Fire. Stephanie is an indie author who publishes through Kindle Vella. I wasn’t familiar with this type of publishing, and it was so interesting to learn how it works, as well as chat with Stephanie about writing!
Chicago, 1871. A public blunder potentially ruins sixteen-year-old Whimsy Greathart’s chances for a future courtship. Agreeing to her parent’s matchmaking plan might be the only way to pursue what she really wants–exposing Chicago’s child labor practices. But when she leads her family into danger on the night of the Great Fire, her focus shifts to survival. She overcomes hardship with the help of a shy preacher’s son and a big-dreaming newsboy, but which young man will hold a home for her heart?
Read here!InterviewVH: Hi, Stephanie, and welcome to the blog! I’m to chat with you today. A big congratulations on the release of The Uncertainty of Fire! Tell me a little bit about your writing journey. When did you first start writing?
SD: Thank you so much for the invitation to your blog. I’ve always had a very active imagination. I used to even tell myself stories in my bedroom when I was just a preschooler. So as soon as I was able to get a pencil in my hand to write things down, stories would pour out. In second grade I wrote a pages-long fantastical tale with leprechauns and giants and fairies. My teacher enjoyed it so much that she had me read it in front of our class and then to the other second grade classes in our school.
VH: What’s the hardest part about writing for you?
SD: Getting the story down initially. I don’t like drafting. I like pretty writing and my first drafts are awful. I’m kind of in a rut right now. I’m happy with my plot and characters but some of them keep derailing me. Lots of revisions to do on this next story. I’m happiest editing, putting the polish and glitter on it.
VH: What authors have deeply influenced your writing?
SD: I think I’d have to say the classic writers—the Brontës, Daphne du Maurier, L.M. Montgomery, Louisa May Alcott. Though I hadn’t ever read a first-person present point of view until I’d read Stephanie Morrill’s The Lost Girl of Astor Street, and that was a lightbulb moment for my story.
VH: What’s one of your best pieces of advice for an aspiring author?
SD: Keep focused on God’s purpose for your writing, know who your target market is (this will help you when you get confusing feedback) and then find a writing group and critique partners, preferably a few that have a little more experience than you. Oh, and something I wished someone had told me years ago—finish something. Avoid shiny thing syndrome. Even if finishing means a short story or novella.
VH: What’s your favorite type of character to write?
SD: I always like to do the unexpected. I hope that’s what people find when they read The Uncertainty of Fire. That no one character behaves exactly the way they think they’re going to. I enjoy using all the personality tests and character evaluations out there, but in the end, none of us fits in a box. And while I don’t try to imbue my characters with anything that would completely blindside readers, I try to subtly show a dimensionality to them. Because that’s real life.
VH: At what point did you realize you wanted to publish?
SD: This could be a long story, but I’ll try to condense. Several years ago, I’d seen a little leaflet about the Children’s Institute of Literature online course. I’d always loved writing and had always dreamed of writing a picture book, but never really considered publication. I applied and was accepted. After studying the business side of writing through that course, I knew I wanted to keep at it. But I had only attempted short pieces. I never thought I could write a full-length novel.
VH: Before I met you, I don’t think I’d ever heard of Kindle Vella. It sounds like such an interesting concept and method of publishing. Could you explain a little bit about it, and why did you decide to publish with it? What are the positives and possible negatives of publishing that way?
SD: My decision to publish for Vella came because the story I had written is a long one. After I’d felt God-led to go indie, the announcement for Vella had released and it was a very interesting concept for me. I knew a lot of young people read on Wattpad, and I’d even considered publishing there in the past. And because it’s a long story, I thought releasing in weekly episodes might be a good way to entice readers who wouldn’t want to sit and read an entire book, especially one as long as this one.
So for those unfamiliar, Kindle Vella allows authors to release never-before-published (and I mean not even on a blog) stories as episodes. Authors can choose how often they want to release. And some have even published their completed stories all at once. That can be difficult because readers will not get notifications for new episodes. Amazon pays royalties based on tokens spent on each story. But they also place a high emphasis on visibility. The 250 top favorites is a big motivator for most authors. And those are decided by readers based on voting for the story they like most each week, reads, likes on episodes, and number of followers.
The positives of Vella are that if a story does well, Amazon pays very nice bonuses beside royalties. The negatives are that they still have some improvements to make. I’d love to see a Christian genre, but for now I can only tag my story as Christian. The notifications are unreliable, so unlike a physical copy of a book or ebook, a story can easily be forgotten. So I’ve felt a little like a promo/marketing machine, which is not an aspect I really care for. Another positive are the other authors I’ve met there. It’s a very particular kind of publishing, and we’ve helped cheer for each other when our stories have reached some milestone and offer encouragement when our story appears to be sinking into the abyss of obscurity.
VH: Tell me a little bit about The Uncertainty of Fire.
SD: This story follows sixteen-year-old Whimsy Greathart, a privileged teen with a heart to expose Chicago’s child labor practices. The story starts with a meeting with an unknown suitor that her father has approved. But the meeting doesn’t go as expected, and when she allows her tender heart to lead her, she makes a choice that endangers her family on the night of Chicago’s great fire. In the aftermath, she finds temporary shelter with a preacher’s family and forms a tentative friendship with the preacher’s son. But then she is forced into the very labor system she’d wished to fight against and relies on the help of a charming newsboy to help her navigate the rough neighborhood she now finds herself in. As her circumstances continue to change, her faith is renewed, her heart is swayed, and her commitments are tested.
VH: What made you want to write YA books?
SD: When I first started this story, I had no idea that YA historicals weren’t really a thing anymore. I wasn’t setting out to fill a void—I was just ignorant. I loved reading historical fiction as a teen, and love reading it now, so it came naturally to me to want to write that genre. As for YA, I remember as a young adult being both terrified and energized about the future. What would I do as a career? Would I marry and have a family? How would I make a mark in the world? I don’t think that has changed for young people of any era. So I love being able to tackle those issues. I also prefer writing in first person point of view. It really helps me get into the head of the character, and that seems to be less acceptable for the adult market.
VH: What made you choose the setting for this book (1870s Chicago)?
SD: The setting came as a product of having lived in Chicago for 18 years. When I first started developing this story, I knew I needed a big event to impact Whimsy’s life and really separate her from all she had ever known. Since I lived in Chicago and had hands-on research at my fingertips, it seemed like the perfect choice.
VH: What do you hope readers will take away from your writing?
SD: I hope they will always see the hand of God in every circumstance. Our positions and material possessions may change, but God never does. He sustains us in the hardest times, and we can always rely on Him and trust His heart, because as Jeremiah says, our hearts are deceitful.
VH: What do your upcoming projects look like?
SD: Whimsy’s story was the first of this series which I’ve entitled The Uncertain Riches series. Next up is the second story featuring secondary characters from The Uncertainty of Fire. I don’t want to say a ton about them at this time to prevent spoilers. Though Whimsy isn’t the main character, events from her story influence this one, so it is best read afterward. And then cousin Bessie will be a secondary character in the third story, which is about the young heiress she works for. I only have that one loosely plotted. I may have a couple of spin offs from these but have not decided yet.
About the Author
Stephanie Daniels is a Christian wife and mother who lives in the present but dreams in the past. Her episodic story, The Uncertainty of Fire, is available exclusively on Amazon’s Kindle Vella.
In between chauffering her sons to baseball practices, music lessons, and whatever else has caught their interest at the moment, supporting her very understanding lives-with-a-writer husband, substitute teaching in Sunday school, singing in the church choir, and attending all of the birthdays, sports events, concerts of not only her sons, but her large extended family, she slips away and attempts to bring past worlds to life.
She writes historical fiction with strong faith themes and often romance, targeted for teens/young adults.
She loves clean period dramas, touring historical sites, drinking a large cup of coffee in the morning, and delving into research. And she is always up for a conversation about books and writing.
January 21, 2022
Unknown Available in Print!
In an author’s life, there are several milestones you always dream of. Being published. Someone you don’t even know reading your book. Changing someone’s life for the better because of your feeble words. (That’s mind blowing.)
But one that’s been a faraway dream ever since I was a wee child plunking words out on the keyboard was having my book in print. Not ebook, which is super cool. But these words have always been contained on my computer (I can’t be an epic author like some of you guys who handwrite your drafts. I am blown away.)
So I have some lovely news for all of you, and it’s surrounded by much screaming and dancing and rejoicing.
Unknown is officially available in print!
Ebooks are great, but nothing compares to a real paper book for me. Lord willing, when it’s released, Unworthy will also be available in print and digital editions.
How do you feel about ebooks vs. print copies?
January 19, 2022
Review: A Stolen Heart by Virginia Henderson
A Stolen Heart: The Abundant Blessings Series by Virginia Henderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I read the first book in this series in the fall of 2021, and I had thought I would read this book during the Christmas season. Sadly, that didn’t happen – but don’t be fooled, this isn’t just a Christmas story. This book can be enjoyed at all times of the year!
Characters: Most of the characters from the first book in the series returned – yay! It was good to see Rachel, William, Sophia, and Peggy again. Peggy had definitely grown up in in this one (it’s set four years after book number one), and she had more of a key role. I loved how she and Sophia kind of took over the plot and grew closer! For me, Peggy seemed very childish sometimes, and her friends acted like teens. However, I think this is probably realistic because she was around ten. That’s getting into an age where kids are starting to grow up and wavering between “kiddie” stuff and pretending to be adults – and that’s exactly where Peggy and her schoolmates were at! William and Rachel weren’t in there quite as much as they were in the first book, but their plot was a bit secondary. Other new characters were introduced – Chloe and Neil were an interesting addition. Chloe was such a sweetheart, and Neil, while a bit gruff to begin with, started to come around. (Also, I have an inkling of what’s to come for the third book in relation to Neil. I’m so excited to see how it all pans out!) And of course, Steve and Terry, who are such fun side characters, rounded out the cast. (Also, Beth and Steve? That just made me so sad. Very bittersweet.) As for Crystal and her crew? Nope. Those kids were a bunch of spoiled brats. They did crack me up with their dressing-less salads. No wonder they were so grumpy!
Plot: Wow! I loved how it all came together to connect with the title. Although there wasn’t a lot of heart-pounding action or suspense, there was so much character development and different plots that the pacing was great. It was a very engaging read.
Moral/theme: A big moral in this one was not judging a person by what they’ve done in the past or by their appearance. Things aren’t always as they seem. Also, the sin of stealing was addressed quite thoroughly, as is fitting to the title. One part that made me quite uncomfortable, however, was the issue of remarriage after divorce. I personally don’t believe the Bible condones remarriage after divorce, and the characters came to the conclusion that it was fine. This wasn’t a huge part of the plot, but it was big enough for me to feel uneasy about it all.
Overall, though, this was an engaging, well-plotted read. Virginia’s writing style gives her a specific voice, and while isn’t grand or verbose, it fits the story well. I’m excited to read the next book in the series!
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
January 17, 2022
Interview with P.D. Atkerson, Author of Phantom Thief
Today, I’m honored to have P.D. Atkerson on the blog! I recently read Phantom Thief (check out my review here!), and that book was such a fun experience. I love that P.D. has written books that include all the cool stuff with spies without any of the nasty stuff that’s in secular fiction. If you’re a fan of adventure novels at all, check her books out. (And for those of you who kind of abhor romance, I think you’ve found an author for you.)
VH: Hi, P.D., and welcome to the blog! I’m so excited to have you join me today. Tell me a little bit about your writing journey. When did you first start writing?
PA: I actually started writing with the One Year Adventure Novel. Although I didn’t end up finishing a story using it, it was what really got me started.
VH: What’s the hardest part about writing for you?
PA: Does having too many ideas count? LOL The hardest part for me would probably be the ending. I’m always worried the story won’t end well.
VH: What authors have deeply influenced your writing?
PA: I actually have no idea. I mean, I’ve read some writing advice by C.S. Lewis, but I don’t know how much his writing influenced my writing. I can’t think of anyone else off the top of my head.
VH: I recently read the first in your Simon Lee series, Phantom Thief. It was so much fun! What inspired you to write that book?
PA: Well, in all honesty, the kinds of shows and movies we watch tend to sway what I’m writing at the time. 
We were watching a TV show with heists at the time, and I think that may have had something to do with it. That and the fact that it’s so hard to find clean spy books without romance in them.
It also fit well with this idea I had for a certain relationship in the book. LOL
VH: What’s one of your best pieces of advice for an aspiring author?
PA: I’m sure it’s been said a billion times before, but write what you want to read. Because if you don’t really like the story, it’s not likely other people will either.
VH: What’s your favorite type of character to write?
PA: I’d probably have to say sarcastic. They seem to be the ones I do best, too. 
VH: At what point did you realize you wanted to publish? How did you decide to go with indie publishing?
I think I always wanted to publish, and I went indie because I didn’t want to deal with being rejected by publishing houses. LOL
VH: Tell me a little bit about your upcoming book, Exploit , coming out February 2.
PA: Exploit is actually the second book in a series about a boy who grew up training to become an assassin, and how he tries to break away from that life. And since you’ve read Phantom Thief, you might recognize him.
VH: And can you share a little bit about your other upcoming book, Smoke Screen ?
PA: Smoke Screen is the first book in a series I wasn’t expecting to write. The book is from two POVs, one actually being the main villain in the AKA Simon Lee series, and the other an FBI agent he’s forced to work with.
VH: What do you hope readers will take away from your writing?
PA: I honestly never thought about it. LOL Umm… a good read?
VH: What do your upcoming projects look like?
PA: The majority of them are spy novels, with a few sci-fi, and medieval ones thrown in.
VH: Thanks so much for chatting with me today, P.D.!
PA: Thanks for having me!
P.D. Atkerson is a homeschooled writer, living in Montana. She spends almost as much time in the worlds she creates as she does the real one.
When she’s not reporting the stories of her agents, she’s making cakes, learning different languages, or traveling to different worlds through the portals of books.
She has a black belt in sarcasm and a master’s degree in useless facts.
If you’re interested in reading any of her books for an honest review, just fill out the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FA…
January 14, 2022
Editing/Writing Updates
And here it is, finally, a writing update! I haven’t done one of these for … months? Let me look.
Oh dear. It was in September. That was a long time ago.
Sorry about that. But in all honesty, for the last four months, not much has changed. I worked on Unworthy throughout the fall semester and my Christmas break. Many a time, it was slogging. It was hard to edit/rewrite during school, and during my break, I was pretty ambitious and got exhausted often. (Like, every night. But the Lord’s mercies are new every morning, right?)
But now I have finished the major edits of Unworthy, and it’s been sent off to my two amazing editors. (Those are my sister, Kristina, and our mom, who is fondly known as The Typo Queen. They’re the best.) After they finish, I have one more full round of editing, then it’s done! I’m shooting for the third week of February – and yes, releasing it around Valentine’s Day is perfect for at least one of these characters.)
But while Unworthy is out of my hands—and that feels so good!—I’ve started on book #3. I originally thought this book would be much easier than books one and two, because by the time I wrote this one, I had matured as a writer and knew more of what I was doing.
Not so much.
You see, I had a thing with words. (And you think, “Well, of course you did. You’re an author.”) Yes, but … words. I mean, three paragraphs to explain that it’s warm outside?
Yes. Such lovely writing. I cannot even deal with the beauty of it.
Anyway. There’s a lot of words being deleted. Which is a good thing, especially considering it started out around 124K. I do not want to edit something that long. Ever.
So that’s what I’ll be working on for the next few months. Again, I’m getting stuck doing major edits during school, but that’s okay. I write/edit better when I don’t have good teaching practices and theories of learning music buzzing around my head, but I gotta learn sometime!
And for the writing side of things? I may or may not be starting a writing project sometime soon. We’ll see how that goes, but I’m quite excited to get back into writing first drafts. Possible updates on that one later.
How is your writing going? Have you learned how to juggle writing with the rest of your life? 
January 12, 2022
Review: Phantom Thief by P.D. Atkerson
Phantom Thief by P.D. Atkerson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow, was this one action-packed ride! I’ve been meaning to read P.D. Atkerson’s books for a long time now, and I’m so glad I got the chance to read this one.
Characters: Okay, can we just talk about Simon Lee? (I’m going to call him Lee, because that’s how I think of him.) This kid was hilarious. The sarcasm was so intense, and I loved how he fought against adults constantly thinking he was incapable because he was only 15. (How is that kid only 15?) But for all of his bluster, he made me want to give him a hug. He triggered my teacher persona massively! But by the end of the book, I think maybe he was coming around a little bit? I don’t know. I feel like he has a long way to go. And Winfield! What a great character. I was rooting for the truth to come out (it didn’t until the end of the book) but what a great twist! I would’ve loved to see more of his and Lee’s interactions, but I guess that’s what the rest of the series is for. Winfield, though, was a cool agent, and he sometimes was a good example/protector to Lee. (Emphasis on sometimes.) The rest of the agents – Trinity, Davis, Smith, and Pierson – were interesting, but I kept getting them confused at first. However, Davis and Smith seemed like they could have an interesting book. So intriguing!
Plot/Setting: Okay, when you pick up this book (and you should!) don’t walk into it expecting a hefty dose of realism. Once you have that correct expectation, you’ll have a blast. In reality, this is way more exciting than what “real” spies/agents would do most days. The plot was pretty direct, and the twists in this one were golden – I loved it! I had to see what happened next. The setting wasn’t hugely described – it was based around D.C., but there weren’t long descriptions about the city. Honestly, Lee could be anywhere, and things would be a massive riot.
Moral/theme: I didn’t find a lot of overt themes in this one, but there was of course Lee and Winfield’s tenuous relationship. Lee said a couple prayers, but he definitely wasn’t the most devout. I’m looking forward to see if the rest of the series develops Lee into more of a Christian character, because that could be a really beautiful story.
Overall, this was a blast. If you’re in the mood for a spy/adventure book that isn’t mired down in a lot of details, this one’s for you. The writing worked well – it wasn’t anything flashy or dramatic and was easy to read. I’m looking forward to discovering more of Lee’s adventures sometime in the future!
January 10, 2022
Liebster Award!
Thank the blogger who nominated you (Thank you, Tasha! Your questions were great!) and provide a link to their blog.
Answer the 11 questions given to you.
Nominate 11 other bloggers.
Ask your nominees 11 questions.
Notify your nominees once you have uploaded your post.
Le Questions and Le AnswersAre you a mom’s kid or dad’s kid?
This is a tough one. I think in some ways I end up doing more of the stuff my mom does (cooking, etc.), and my sister (who’s stronger and tougher) does the stuff like helping Dad fix the cars. But I will say, I’ve worked on cars, too, and I do things with both of my parents. So somewhere in the middle-ish.
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The Bible. Can’t get much better than the Word of God.
What is your dream pet?
Another tough one! When I was a kid, I always wanted a German shepherd and a horse. I still love both of those animals, but now that I’m older and realize how little time I actually have, I don’t think I could devote that much time to a pet. Sadly. So right now, a kitten. They don’t need constant attention (they’re cats), and you can still snuggle them and love them. Aww, I love kittens …
What are your 2022 goals?
I’m not a huge goal person, but in general, drawing closer to the Lord and working hard amidst school and writing and life.
Why do you blog?
I actually started my blog because authors have to have some sort of publicity. People don’t read your books unless they know you exist. But another huge part of blogging is meeting all kinds of people and connecting with them, and that is such a blessing!
Favourite music genre?
No!! This is impossible.
Classical? Bluegrass? Irish?
Don’t make me choose.
Favourite book genre?
I’m going to have to say historical fiction – barely. I’ve been reading in all sorts of different genres this year, and I’ve enjoyed so many of them!
Hawaiian pizza, yes or no?
I don’t think I’ve ever had Hawaiian pizza. I love pineapple, but on pizza? I don’t know.
Favourite memory?
Oh my word, these are such hard questions! Tasha, you did a good job with these. Really making me think. I don’t think I could ever narrow this down to one thing. In general, though, when I look back, there were lots of amazing memories in just day-to-day life when my mom homeschooled my sister and me. It was a fun time – most of the time. Except when I was a bratty kid. (Sorry, Mum …)
Are you introverted or extroverted?
Introverted. 100%.
Do you like traveling? Why or why not?
Um … not really. I mean, part of me really wants to go to like Europe (Russia, in particular!), but a bigger part of me is a homebody. My family will attest to this one. I just really enjoy normal days and schedules. That being said, with the current state of the world and everything, I haven’t gone anywhere for a long while. So maybe this has changed?
Thank you so much, Tasha, for nominating me!
NomineesAlyssa @ Seeking the Timeless Anchor
Joelle Stone @ The Pen Inspired
Sherrice @ Penlightenment
Autumn @ Bursting Through Darkness
Kate Willis @ Once Upon An Ordinary
Faith @ Faith on the Farm
Madi @ Madi’s Musings
QuestionsIf you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?Favorite Bible verse?Favorite musical instrument? Why?Last five-star read?Favorite type of animal you would never have as a pet?Favorite subject in school (or when you were in school)? Why?Tea or coffee?If you could live anywhere (in the existing world), where would that be?Favorite sport to participate in?Favorite song/piece of music? (Currently.)Snow or rain?January 7, 2022
Review: Glad Tidings: A Flash Fiction Advent Calendar
Glad Tidings: A Flash Fiction Advent Calendar by Angie Thompson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’m not sure I’ve ever read a book like this one – twenty-five short, flash fiction stories that all relate to the Christmas story. I knew I enjoyed Angie Thompson’s writing (I was fully convinced after reading A Threat and a Promise), but I wasn’t expecting every single one of these little stories to be so moving!
I loved the way Angie creatively approached each of the “prompts” (words that connect to the Christmas story). The stories were all set in different eras and included all different types and ages of characters. Just the sheer amount of creative work was so amazing! And then when we get down to the themes of each of these little stories … each one was so profound, touching the reader so deeply. Was every story deep and complex? No, but the simplicity added to the sweetness. I absolutely loved this book, and it truly pointed to the real reason for Christmas – the birth of a Savior Who came to save lost sinners like me and you. This book serves as a perfect Advent calendar, but I wouldn’t mind reading it at any time of the year. These truths relate to all time, not just at Christmas. I highly recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for sweet Christmas stories or anyone who enjoys beautiful little stories with truth-filled themes!
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
January 5, 2022
Some Exciting 2022 Books
In honor of the New Year, I thought I’d talk about a few of the books that I’m looking forward to reading in 2022. I know as the months roll on, there will be many other books to eagerly await, but these are just a few I’m currently looking forward to. This is in no way an exhaustive list – some of these are traditionally published books, some are indie. And these are also new-to-me this year, so I’m not counting anything I’ve already read that will be released in 2022.
Okay. Enough disclaimers.
I’ve read several of Susan May Warren’s books – namely her older suspense series set in Russia (go figure why.) I haven’t read any of her newer ones, so I want to try this one out. (Not to mention, my sister has a copy that’s just waiting for me to snatch.)
Until Leaves Fall in Paris – Sarah Sundin
Yay for more Sarah Sundin! I really enjoyed her last release (When Twilight Breaks), and this one even has a ballerina! You guys know how I feel about that.
All That it Takes – Nicole Deese
I really enjoyed All That Really Matters (see my review here!), and I’m looking forward to the continuation of the story. The first one was such a chill, interesting contemporary romance.
The Italian Ballerina – Kristy Cambron
More ballet! What is going on here? (I think I started a trend.) But I’ve been enjoying Cambron’s books recently – her writing is so beautiful – and I can’t wait to read this one.
Fled for Refuge – Kristina Hall
Um, yes. I can’t wait to read this book again. It’s going to be super intense, but I love these characters so much. Not to mention there are two more books in the series!
Bound and Determined – Grace Johnson
I can’t wait to read more about my favorite pirates (er, privateers) again. And after that cliffhanger in A Prisoner at Heart … I have to know what happens!
Counterfeit Love – Crystal Caudill
I think this is the author’s first novel, and it sounds so interesting. Historical and full of intrigue? Yes! I hope I’m finding a new favorite author!
When the Day Comes – Gabrielle Meyer
This one looks really interesting. The cover confuses me, but I need to step out of my comfort zone and read some time travel!
A book about Irish people? Yes, please! I’m always down for that, and I can’t wait to get a chance to read this book.
Are you guys looking forward to any of these? What are your most anticipated releases of 2022? And if you love Indie Christian fiction, check out this handy-dandy Goodreads list!
