June McCrary Jacobs's Blog: ~ Author June McCrary Jacobs ~, page 77
April 30, 2020
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER ~
☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~ -- 'ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER' -- AUTHOR WENDY WILSON SPOONER~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, Excerpt,Author Bio, Unique Author GuestPost & Giveaway~
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour & Giveaway for Once Upon an Irish Summer by Wendy Wilson Spooner, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
Once Upon an Irish Summer
Author: Wendy Wilson Spooner
Publisher: Ambassador International
Release Date: April 3, 2020
Genre: Young Adult Historical Romance
Two teenagers, two centuries, one city.
1817 Ireland - Allen Hamilton crosses the Atlantic alone to find a way to save his family from imminent financial and social ruin before it's too late. Instead he is met with prejudice, sickness, and starvation.
2018 Fort Wayne, Indiana - A gifted young artist struggles with debilitating grief after a sudden death in her family. When she unearths Allen Hamilton's noble rise from rags to riches in Antebellum America, their shared connection inspires her own healing and renewed inspiration.
Based on a 200-year-old letter collection, Once Upon an Irish Summer brings to life and weaves together this true story of romance, mystery, and hope.
EXCERPT:
Mom came over and put her arm around my shoulder. “Beth, we think it’ll be good for you to go back to Fort Wayne and to spend time with Mimi. Think about it. You love her. And maybe you’ll find inspiration to paint something new.”
Furiously swiping at my cheeks, I shrugged her off. “I don’t want to go back there! Don’t do this to me!” To my mind came hazy memories of my grandfather. No, please. Not now!
Instantly, I snapped. “I’m not going to Fort Wayne for the whole summer! I was supposed to visit Mimi for only a couple of days, then come straight back here to paint!”
Dad didn’t flinch. “You can paint in Fort Wayne, and you are going.”
Waterworks launched down my cheeks. I headed for the door.
“Dad’s going to open up our old house,” Mom called after me. “But—I have to stay here because I already committed to the summer school counseling job, and we need the money.”
I turned back. “What? You’re not going?”
No one said anything.
Spinning on my heel, and making as much noise as possible, I stomped upstairs to my art studio and slammed the door.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Wendy Wilson Spooner became a novelist after writing academically and for family history clients. Her love of history compels her to write the true stories she unearths during research, and she's found that truth is indeed much more exciting and inspiring than fiction! She writes about family, faith, grief, art, and overcoming obstacles in life by coming to know who we truly are—children of God, and the descendants of remarkable people who paved the way for us—even if they really struggled. Wendy believes in learning from our ancestors, honoring them, and standing on their shoulders to become someone even better. When not writing, Wendy currently serves as Vice-Chair for Daughters of the American Revolution over the American Heritage Contest in Art and Sculpture. She also loves to hike, paint, travel and spend time with her favorite people—her family.
Please discuss the research you conducted while writing this book:
Wendy: The research for Once Upon an Irish Summer started in Ireland. The Hamilton family I wrote about in the historical chapters were from three main counties. Two in Northern Ireland and one in the republic. In all three of these gloriously green, rolling-hill areas, with my husband and parents, we combed through archives in Town Hall Records, churches, tromped through ancient cemeteries, spent hours in libraries, climbed walls to get to family historic sites, and searched for hours through microfilms at PRONI in Belfast, the main archive repository for Northern Ireland. I could feel and sense my family roots everywhere. Ireland became part of my soul and I can’t wait to go back.
Equally exciting, was researching the Hamilton family after they came to America. They were the kind of people who inspire you to become a better person. They were highly educated, abolitionists long before the Civil War, highly religious, and advocates for all who needed their assistance whether it was educationally, financially, politically, or through the arts.
I also had a great time researching and creating the present-day world for the main characters in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. That city has a rich heritage as the cross-roads to the west in the 1800s, and for today’s teens, it’s full of fantastic parks, educational opportunities such as Purdue University, several renowned art schools, wonderfully diverse high schools, and so much more.
CONNECT WITH WENDY: Website | Facebook | Instagram
TOUR GIVEAWAY(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Once Upon an Irish Summer with a gorgeous Irish bookmark!!
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight April 28, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on May 5, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US mailing addresses 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!
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~ -- 'ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER' -- AUTHOR WENDY WILSON SPOONER~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, Excerpt,Author Bio, Unique Author GuestPost & Giveaway~
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour & Giveaway for Once Upon an Irish Summer by Wendy Wilson Spooner, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
Once Upon an Irish Summer
Author: Wendy Wilson Spooner
Publisher: Ambassador International
Release Date: April 3, 2020
Genre: Young Adult Historical Romance
Two teenagers, two centuries, one city.
1817 Ireland - Allen Hamilton crosses the Atlantic alone to find a way to save his family from imminent financial and social ruin before it's too late. Instead he is met with prejudice, sickness, and starvation.
2018 Fort Wayne, Indiana - A gifted young artist struggles with debilitating grief after a sudden death in her family. When she unearths Allen Hamilton's noble rise from rags to riches in Antebellum America, their shared connection inspires her own healing and renewed inspiration.
Based on a 200-year-old letter collection, Once Upon an Irish Summer brings to life and weaves together this true story of romance, mystery, and hope.
EXCERPT:
Mom came over and put her arm around my shoulder. “Beth, we think it’ll be good for you to go back to Fort Wayne and to spend time with Mimi. Think about it. You love her. And maybe you’ll find inspiration to paint something new.”
Furiously swiping at my cheeks, I shrugged her off. “I don’t want to go back there! Don’t do this to me!” To my mind came hazy memories of my grandfather. No, please. Not now!
Instantly, I snapped. “I’m not going to Fort Wayne for the whole summer! I was supposed to visit Mimi for only a couple of days, then come straight back here to paint!”
Dad didn’t flinch. “You can paint in Fort Wayne, and you are going.”
Waterworks launched down my cheeks. I headed for the door.
“Dad’s going to open up our old house,” Mom called after me. “But—I have to stay here because I already committed to the summer school counseling job, and we need the money.”
I turned back. “What? You’re not going?”
No one said anything.
Spinning on my heel, and making as much noise as possible, I stomped upstairs to my art studio and slammed the door.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Wendy Wilson Spooner became a novelist after writing academically and for family history clients. Her love of history compels her to write the true stories she unearths during research, and she's found that truth is indeed much more exciting and inspiring than fiction! She writes about family, faith, grief, art, and overcoming obstacles in life by coming to know who we truly are—children of God, and the descendants of remarkable people who paved the way for us—even if they really struggled. Wendy believes in learning from our ancestors, honoring them, and standing on their shoulders to become someone even better. When not writing, Wendy currently serves as Vice-Chair for Daughters of the American Revolution over the American Heritage Contest in Art and Sculpture. She also loves to hike, paint, travel and spend time with her favorite people—her family.
Please discuss the research you conducted while writing this book:
Wendy: The research for Once Upon an Irish Summer started in Ireland. The Hamilton family I wrote about in the historical chapters were from three main counties. Two in Northern Ireland and one in the republic. In all three of these gloriously green, rolling-hill areas, with my husband and parents, we combed through archives in Town Hall Records, churches, tromped through ancient cemeteries, spent hours in libraries, climbed walls to get to family historic sites, and searched for hours through microfilms at PRONI in Belfast, the main archive repository for Northern Ireland. I could feel and sense my family roots everywhere. Ireland became part of my soul and I can’t wait to go back.
Equally exciting, was researching the Hamilton family after they came to America. They were the kind of people who inspire you to become a better person. They were highly educated, abolitionists long before the Civil War, highly religious, and advocates for all who needed their assistance whether it was educationally, financially, politically, or through the arts.
I also had a great time researching and creating the present-day world for the main characters in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. That city has a rich heritage as the cross-roads to the west in the 1800s, and for today’s teens, it’s full of fantastic parks, educational opportunities such as Purdue University, several renowned art schools, wonderfully diverse high schools, and so much more.
CONNECT WITH WENDY: Website | Facebook | Instagram
TOUR GIVEAWAY(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Once Upon an Irish Summer with a gorgeous Irish bookmark!!
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight April 28, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on May 5, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US mailing addresses 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!
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘☘
~ FINDING PEACE ON WISHING BRIDGE SOCIAL BLITZ ~
~ 'FINDING PEACE ON WISHING BRIDGE' SOCIAL BLITZ ~
Author Ruth Logan Herne~Post Includes: Book Spotlight & Giveaway~
Finding Peace in Wishing Bridge by Ruth Logan Herne
Preorder Link
Jazz had searched far and wide for the peace, joy and tranquility that had been shattered as an adolescent, but maybe she’d been looking in all the wrong places. Maybe- just maybe- she could find it here, in Wishing Bridge.
When supermodel Jazz Monroe answered a friend’s call for help, she’d just taken a hiatus from the job that made her a very rich woman to fight an eating disorder. Jazz is ready to embrace a new normal, but when her life is threatened, she has to re-examine her options. Stay? Or go? And if she stays, can she ever really find peace in Wishing Bridge?
@Ruth Logan Herne @Amazon Publishing @JustRead Publicity Tours
#justreadtours #WishingBridge #RuthLoganHerne #giveaway#booklaunch #newrelease
April 26, 2020
~ MMGM RETRO FICTION BOBBSEY TWINS ~
~ MARVELOUS MIDDLE-GRADEMONDAY RETRO FICTIONFEATURE ~
-- THE BOBBSEY TWINS: THE RED,
WHITE AND BLUE MYSTERY
{Original Bobbsey Twins #64} --
AUTHOR LAURA LEE HOPE
April 23, 2020
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE HER HIDDEN HOPE ~
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~
-- 'HER HIDDEN HOPE' --
AUTHOR JILL LYNN
My Friday Fiction Feature today is the below quote from the recent contemporary inspirational romance release from Author Jill Lynn!
'Her Hidden Hope' by Jill Lynn from Love Inspired ~ She once trusted him with her heart, but will she ever trust him with the truth? ~
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/34wWHaq
Jill Lynn JustRead Publicity Tours
#HerHiddenHope #JillLynn #justreadtours #amreadingromance #christianfiction #bookquote
My Friday Fiction Feature today is the below quote from the recent contemporary inspirational romance release from Author Jill Lynn!
'Her Hidden Hope' by Jill Lynn from Love Inspired ~ She once trusted him with her heart, but will she ever trust him with the truth? ~
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/34wWHaq
Jill Lynn JustRead Publicity Tours
#HerHiddenHope #JillLynn #justreadtours #amreadingromance #christianfiction #bookquote
April 20, 2020
~ BLOG TOUR LOST DOWN DEEP ~
~ BLOG TOUR STOP ~
-- 'LOST DOWN DEEP' --
AUTHOR SARA DAVISON~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, Excerpt,Author Bio & Giveaway~ 
Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for Lost Down Deep by Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
Lost Down Deep
Series: The Rose Tattoo Trilogy #1
Author: Sara Davison
Release Date: April 1, 2020
Genre: Romantic Suspense
She is the only one who can tell the police who attacked her in her home. If only she could remember…
Summer Velasquez is on the run from a man she has no recollection of after an attack she can’t recall. Every face in the crowd is a potential suspect, so how is Summer supposed to know who is a threat to her and who isn’t?
After fleeing her assailant and the parents who lied to her about what happened, she changes her name and seeks refuge in Elora, Ontario. The small town feels familiar, although she has no memory of ever having been here.
Even in what should be a safe place, she can’t shake the feeling that she is being watched.
When Ryan Taylor strolls into the Taste of Heaven Café where she works, Summer is immediately drawn to him. However, he may not be who he says he is either. As her suspicions grow, Summer prepares to run again.
But at least one person is determined to stop her. Permanently. And if she can’t remember who he is, this time he may succeed.
EXCERPT:
“I’m a writer.” That would explain why he was free to hang out in coffee shops during the day, right? She had no way of knowing what he did on his laptop while he was there.
She tilted her head and Jude swallowed. She wore her long dark hair up at the coffee shop, so he hadn’t seen it like this in a while, dark curls splashing down over her shoulders.
He blinked. Had she asked him something? “I’m sorry, what?”
That little smile flitted around her mouth again. “I asked you what you write. Anything I would have heard of?”
“I doubt it.” No books, or she could go online and discover pretty quickly he’d made his career up. “Articles mostly, for health and science magazines and websites.”
The lies slid a little too easily off his tongue. Hidden identities, secret pasts… how had the two of them ended up in some kind of Shakespearean drama?
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sara Davison is the author of the romantic suspense series, The Seven Trilogy and The Night Guardians. She has been a finalist for eight national writing awards, including Best New Canadian Christian author, a Carol Award, and two Daphne du Maurier Awards for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She is a Word and Cascade Award winner. She currently resides in Ontario, Canada with her husband Michael and their three children, all of whom she (literally) looks up to.
CONNECT WITH SARA: Website | Facebook | Twitter
TOUR GIVEAWAY(1) winner will receive a print copy of Lost Down Deep by Sara Davison and a $25 Amazon Gift Card!
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight April 20, 2020, and last through 11:59 PM EST on April 27, 2020. 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 mailing addresses 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!*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅
Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for Lost Down Deep by Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
Lost Down Deep
Series: The Rose Tattoo Trilogy #1
Author: Sara Davison
Release Date: April 1, 2020
Genre: Romantic Suspense
She is the only one who can tell the police who attacked her in her home. If only she could remember…
Summer Velasquez is on the run from a man she has no recollection of after an attack she can’t recall. Every face in the crowd is a potential suspect, so how is Summer supposed to know who is a threat to her and who isn’t?
After fleeing her assailant and the parents who lied to her about what happened, she changes her name and seeks refuge in Elora, Ontario. The small town feels familiar, although she has no memory of ever having been here.
Even in what should be a safe place, she can’t shake the feeling that she is being watched.
When Ryan Taylor strolls into the Taste of Heaven Café where she works, Summer is immediately drawn to him. However, he may not be who he says he is either. As her suspicions grow, Summer prepares to run again.
But at least one person is determined to stop her. Permanently. And if she can’t remember who he is, this time he may succeed.
EXCERPT:
“I’m a writer.” That would explain why he was free to hang out in coffee shops during the day, right? She had no way of knowing what he did on his laptop while he was there.
She tilted her head and Jude swallowed. She wore her long dark hair up at the coffee shop, so he hadn’t seen it like this in a while, dark curls splashing down over her shoulders.
He blinked. Had she asked him something? “I’m sorry, what?”
That little smile flitted around her mouth again. “I asked you what you write. Anything I would have heard of?”
“I doubt it.” No books, or she could go online and discover pretty quickly he’d made his career up. “Articles mostly, for health and science magazines and websites.”
The lies slid a little too easily off his tongue. Hidden identities, secret pasts… how had the two of them ended up in some kind of Shakespearean drama?
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sara Davison is the author of the romantic suspense series, The Seven Trilogy and The Night Guardians. She has been a finalist for eight national writing awards, including Best New Canadian Christian author, a Carol Award, and two Daphne du Maurier Awards for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She is a Word and Cascade Award winner. She currently resides in Ontario, Canada with her husband Michael and their three children, all of whom she (literally) looks up to.
CONNECT WITH SARA: Website | Facebook | Twitter
TOUR GIVEAWAY(1) winner will receive a print copy of Lost Down Deep by Sara Davison and a $25 Amazon Gift Card!
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight April 20, 2020, and last through 11:59 PM EST on April 27, 2020. 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 mailing addresses 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!
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅❄❆❅
April 19, 2020
~ MMGM EARTH DAY & ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION ~
~ MARVELOUS MIDDLE-GRADEMONDAY EARTH DAY & ARBORDAY 2020 CELEBRATION ~
April 16, 2020
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE THE THORNKEEPER ~
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~
-- 'THE THORNKEEPER' --
AUTHOR PEPPER D. BASHAM~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, Excerpt,Unique Guest Post by the Author,
Author Bio & Giveaway~
Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for
The Thorn Keeper
by Pepper D. Basham, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
The Thorn Keeper
Series: Penned in Time #2
Author: Pepper D. Basham
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing
Release Date: February 28, 2016
Genre: Historical Romance
With her past in shambles, how can she fashion a future of hope?
Catherine Dougall’s past of manipulation has left her future in threads. With a new faith, she longs to take the remnants of her life and make something beautiful, but shame, societies’ judgments, and the natural consequences of an unplanned pregnancy test her newfound hope.
Dr. David Ross doesn’t help either. His kindness, sacrifice, and tenderness tempt her to impossible dreams. A fallen woman doesn’t merit a fairytale. David Ross has made every effort to keep his life above reproach. His passion for the sick pump fresh purpose through his choices, but without financial support to maintain his war hospital, all is lost. When his notorious aunt offers an easy solution, David is tempted to give in to her demands, but his growing affection for the reformed flirt, Catherine Dougall, unwinds the careful wall around his heart and offers an unexpected choice.
When the worst of war tears them apart, can love renew the memory of what was lost or will tragedy steal away their hope forever?
From the beautiful Derbyshire countryside to the trenches of World War One, Catherine and David must learn to trust in a God who designs a masterpiece out of brokenness and fashions hope in the most unlikely places.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository
EXCERPT:
Music rose from a room to his right, another massive room opened to his left, and a grand stairway ascended in the center, curving up into the recesses of the house. A figure on the stairs brought his breathing to a full stop.
Catherine.
His Catherine.
He’d always known she was beautiful, even from the first moment they met on the streets of Ednesbury, but never had he imagined something as breathtaking as her in ravishing red. He finally understood why every social circle within Ednesbury’s vicinity spoke of Catherine Dougal’s infallible beauty. Why men waited in lines to enjoy her company. Why a man would hover on the brink of impropriety to gain her favor. And this vision of beauty was smiling at him – the bookish, introverted, nearly penniless surgeon. The word ‘captivated’ took on new meaning.
She bypassed the crowd congregating outside the ballroom and made her way to his side, bringing her lavender scent and lovely glow with her. Her lips were tinted a darker shade, like a forbidden fruit. He placed his palm to his chest and took in every detail. Overwhelmed.
“You look quite fetching in your tails, Dr. Ross.” Her gaze of approval kindled a deeper smolder in his chest. “A definite improvement from your surgeon’s coat.”
“Catherine.” He took her hand and brought it to his lips, never taking his eyes from hers. “If I’ve been hesitant to respond, it’s only because I fail to find words accurate enough to describe how beautiful you are.”
PENNED IN TIME SERIES
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her most recent historical romance, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge, showcases her Appalachian heritage and history, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.
Pepper loves getting to know readers and other authors through social media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. You may also learn more about her on her website at www.pepperdbasham.com
CONNECT WITH PEPPER: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Character Spotlight on Catherine Dougall:
~Catherine Dougall surprised me.
Actually, God surprised me through Catherine Dougall, but that’s a story for another post
Author Bio & Giveaway~
Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for
The Thorn Keeper
by Pepper D. Basham, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
The Thorn Keeper
Series: Penned in Time #2
Author: Pepper D. Basham
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing
Release Date: February 28, 2016
Genre: Historical Romance
With her past in shambles, how can she fashion a future of hope?
Catherine Dougall’s past of manipulation has left her future in threads. With a new faith, she longs to take the remnants of her life and make something beautiful, but shame, societies’ judgments, and the natural consequences of an unplanned pregnancy test her newfound hope.
Dr. David Ross doesn’t help either. His kindness, sacrifice, and tenderness tempt her to impossible dreams. A fallen woman doesn’t merit a fairytale. David Ross has made every effort to keep his life above reproach. His passion for the sick pump fresh purpose through his choices, but without financial support to maintain his war hospital, all is lost. When his notorious aunt offers an easy solution, David is tempted to give in to her demands, but his growing affection for the reformed flirt, Catherine Dougall, unwinds the careful wall around his heart and offers an unexpected choice.
When the worst of war tears them apart, can love renew the memory of what was lost or will tragedy steal away their hope forever?
From the beautiful Derbyshire countryside to the trenches of World War One, Catherine and David must learn to trust in a God who designs a masterpiece out of brokenness and fashions hope in the most unlikely places.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository
EXCERPT:
Music rose from a room to his right, another massive room opened to his left, and a grand stairway ascended in the center, curving up into the recesses of the house. A figure on the stairs brought his breathing to a full stop.
Catherine.
His Catherine.
He’d always known she was beautiful, even from the first moment they met on the streets of Ednesbury, but never had he imagined something as breathtaking as her in ravishing red. He finally understood why every social circle within Ednesbury’s vicinity spoke of Catherine Dougal’s infallible beauty. Why men waited in lines to enjoy her company. Why a man would hover on the brink of impropriety to gain her favor. And this vision of beauty was smiling at him – the bookish, introverted, nearly penniless surgeon. The word ‘captivated’ took on new meaning.
She bypassed the crowd congregating outside the ballroom and made her way to his side, bringing her lavender scent and lovely glow with her. Her lips were tinted a darker shade, like a forbidden fruit. He placed his palm to his chest and took in every detail. Overwhelmed.
“You look quite fetching in your tails, Dr. Ross.” Her gaze of approval kindled a deeper smolder in his chest. “A definite improvement from your surgeon’s coat.”
“Catherine.” He took her hand and brought it to his lips, never taking his eyes from hers. “If I’ve been hesitant to respond, it’s only because I fail to find words accurate enough to describe how beautiful you are.”
PENNED IN TIME SERIES
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her most recent historical romance, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge, showcases her Appalachian heritage and history, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.
Pepper loves getting to know readers and other authors through social media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. You may also learn more about her on her website at www.pepperdbasham.com
CONNECT WITH PEPPER: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Character Spotlight on Catherine Dougall:
~Catherine Dougall surprised me.
Actually, God surprised me through Catherine Dougall, but that’s a story for another post
April 14, 2020
~ REVELL READS THE TRAITOR'S PAWN ~
~ REVELL READS BLOG TOUR ~
-- 'THE TRAITOR'S PAWN' --
AUTHOR LISA HARRIS~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, Author Bio,Links to Excerpt & Book Trailer, and Review~
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Join the hunt for the truth--and a traitor
When FBI agent Jack Shannon arrives in Corpus Christi, Texas, he is focused on one thing: find the man who has been selling encrypted government secrets to the Chinese. But when a senator is shot during a hunting trip and the woman he was with is abducted, Jack agrees to join the search--especially when he discovers that the kidnapping victim is Aubrey Grayson, a woman he was once in love with.
As the search continues, it becomes clear the senator may not have been the intended victim--and Aubrey may be connected to the other case Jack is supposed to be working on. Can Jack untangle the knots before it's too late? And when he learns the truth, will it be too painful to get past?
Praise for the novels of Lisa Harris
"Lisa Harris never fails to amaze me."--Interviews and Reviews on Deadly Intentions
"An exciting, well-crafted tale of romantic suspense."--Booklist on A Secret to Die For
"Another skillfully crafted novel by a master of the genre."--Midwest Book Review on A Secret to Die For
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel from Romantic Times for her novels Blood Covenant and Vendetta. The author of more than 40 books, including The Nikki Boyd Files and the Southern Crimes series, as well as Vanishing Point, A Secret to Die For, and Deadly Intentions, Harris and her family have spent over 16 years living as missionaries in southern Africa. Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com.
LINK TO EXCERPT COURTESY OF THE PUBLISHER
LINK TO BOOK TRAILER COURTESY OF THE PUBLISHER
MY REVIEW:I enjoy reading romantic suspense novels for many reasons. In particular, I enjoy reading this author's stories because they are so fast-paced and well-constructed from the beginning to the end. The characters are unique and three-dimensional, and the author's ability to pull a reader into the story -- and keep her/him there -- is exceptional.
When I read a suspense or mystery novel, I usually make a guess about who the villian/villianess is by the end of chapter one or two. As I began reading The Traitor's Pawn , I pinned the whole plot on one particular individual. By the time I had read the first one hundred pages, I had to throw my 'theory' out the window.
This plot is very intricate with layer upon layer of subterfuge and betrayal, along with a barrelful of 'red herrings' thrown in for good measure. This author's ability to roll from one action scene to another is extraordinary. The story moved along at an exciting page throughout the book, but the final few chapters were amazing!
The relationship between the two main characters was heartfelt and realistic given that they had been best friends since they were middle-graders. I truly enjoyed the faith thread that ran throughout their relationship and woven into the storyline. At times I felt like crying for the injustices life perpetrated against certain individuals, and at other times I felt like cheering for the successes of the main characters.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Christian/clean romantic suspense, Christian/clean fiction, Christian/clean romance, and Christian/clean Southern fiction.
I will look forward to reading many more of Lisa Harris's well-crafted books in the future.
Disclosure from blogger: I received a paperback copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review to be posted on my blog and on retailer sites and Goodreads. I received no compensation for my review or posts here or on any other site.
# # # # #
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Join the hunt for the truth--and a traitor
When FBI agent Jack Shannon arrives in Corpus Christi, Texas, he is focused on one thing: find the man who has been selling encrypted government secrets to the Chinese. But when a senator is shot during a hunting trip and the woman he was with is abducted, Jack agrees to join the search--especially when he discovers that the kidnapping victim is Aubrey Grayson, a woman he was once in love with.
As the search continues, it becomes clear the senator may not have been the intended victim--and Aubrey may be connected to the other case Jack is supposed to be working on. Can Jack untangle the knots before it's too late? And when he learns the truth, will it be too painful to get past?
Praise for the novels of Lisa Harris
"Lisa Harris never fails to amaze me."--Interviews and Reviews on Deadly Intentions
"An exciting, well-crafted tale of romantic suspense."--Booklist on A Secret to Die For
"Another skillfully crafted novel by a master of the genre."--Midwest Book Review on A Secret to Die For
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel from Romantic Times for her novels Blood Covenant and Vendetta. The author of more than 40 books, including The Nikki Boyd Files and the Southern Crimes series, as well as Vanishing Point, A Secret to Die For, and Deadly Intentions, Harris and her family have spent over 16 years living as missionaries in southern Africa. Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com. LINK TO EXCERPT COURTESY OF THE PUBLISHER
LINK TO BOOK TRAILER COURTESY OF THE PUBLISHER
MY REVIEW:I enjoy reading romantic suspense novels for many reasons. In particular, I enjoy reading this author's stories because they are so fast-paced and well-constructed from the beginning to the end. The characters are unique and three-dimensional, and the author's ability to pull a reader into the story -- and keep her/him there -- is exceptional.When I read a suspense or mystery novel, I usually make a guess about who the villian/villianess is by the end of chapter one or two. As I began reading The Traitor's Pawn , I pinned the whole plot on one particular individual. By the time I had read the first one hundred pages, I had to throw my 'theory' out the window.
This plot is very intricate with layer upon layer of subterfuge and betrayal, along with a barrelful of 'red herrings' thrown in for good measure. This author's ability to roll from one action scene to another is extraordinary. The story moved along at an exciting page throughout the book, but the final few chapters were amazing!
The relationship between the two main characters was heartfelt and realistic given that they had been best friends since they were middle-graders. I truly enjoyed the faith thread that ran throughout their relationship and woven into the storyline. At times I felt like crying for the injustices life perpetrated against certain individuals, and at other times I felt like cheering for the successes of the main characters.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Christian/clean romantic suspense, Christian/clean fiction, Christian/clean romance, and Christian/clean Southern fiction.
I will look forward to reading many more of Lisa Harris's well-crafted books in the future.
Disclosure from blogger: I received a paperback copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review to be posted on my blog and on retailer sites and Goodreads. I received no compensation for my review or posts here or on any other site.
# # # # #
April 12, 2020
~ BLOG BLITZ FOR WHEN VALLEYS BLOOM AGAIN ~
~ BLOG BLITZ ~
-- 'WHEN VALLEYS BLOOM AGAIN' --
AUTHOR PAT JEANNE DAVIS~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, Excerpt,Author Bio & Giveaway~
Welcome to the Blog Blitz & Giveaway for When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
When Valleys Bloom Again
Author: Pat Jeanne Davis
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing
Release Date: January 16, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
As war approaches in 1939, Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Then Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.
Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage? Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the U.S. Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home?
EXCERPT:
Main Line Philadelphia
June 1940
Abby’s first year at Weston Teachers College over and classes out for the summer, she again offered to help out in the greenhouse. She’d overlook Jim’s response to her question two months ago on America joining the war and would work alongside him. She found him in the potting area, a large red, white, and blue handkerchief around his neck.
“I’m glad you’re here,” Jim said, grinning. He gestured toward empty ceramic pots on the ground. “I think we’ll tackle those, if that’s all right with you?”
Abby flashed a quick smile. Did he remember his curt reply back in April and her hasty departure afterwards? She squatted next to a jumble of ornamental containers.
Jim rummaged through them, then thrust his trowel into a bucket of thumb-sized stones. “About two inches of these should do.” He tipped the stones into one of the pots. “They provide slow drainage so the plant won’t dry out.” He crouched beside her. “Then fill up the container with compost—your ‘muck’—and a little top soil.”
Abby scooted to one side. Still he was good at his job. “How much of each?”
“I’m sorry, I forgot this is still new to you.” Jim moved in closer. “Half-and-half, see? Put tall daisies in the back, red impatiens in the center, and lastly along the outer edges of each container, the trailing begonias, petunias, and nasturtium so they cascade down the sides.” Suiting action to words, Jim completed one arrangement and set it beside her. “Use this as your guide, leaving two to three inches between each plant.” He smiled. “If you have a question, I’ll be nearby.”
As she toiled, Abby sensed Jim’s eyes on her and tried to catch him at it. But whenever she’d glance over, he’d look down at his hands and whistle, making a game out of it and beating her every time. Then Jim set down his trowel and strolled over, giving her one of those captivating smiles. “Off for the summer, are you?”
Abby nodded, focusing on the flowers in her hands. Please don’t come any nearer.
He removed his hat and twirled it in his hands like the first day she saw him. “Is college all you expected it to be?”
Abby’s wall of indifference collapsed, and she gazed up into those intense blue eyes below his dark eyebrows. “I’m looking forward to going back.” Her throat tightened. “Still, sometimes I feel se-se-selfish. There’s so much I could be doing at home for the war effort.”
Jim rocked back. “Selfish?” His brow furrowed. “When you complete your training, you’ll be teaching kids who’ll be future citizens.”
Abby—without breaking the lock of his eyes—flinched, taken aback by his response.
“My squirt sister with the big mouth says she wants to quit high school.” Jim hunched beside her, lowering his voice. “And the older one who had great dreams didn’t finish school.” He looked into the distance. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t go on like that.”
Surprised by his revelation, her cheeks grew warm.
“I’ll probably be one of the first call-ups if we enter this war.” He stood and swatted his hat against his thigh. “But until and if that happens my duty lies at home.”
In a flash of self-reproach, she understood. She’d misjudged him. His mother and sisters needed him, and he doesn’t want to leave them. And what had he said about his job, and how grateful he was to have it?
Jim slapped his palms together to dislodge the dirt. “It’s none of my business, but you might think about teaching on the estate during summer.” He plunged his hands into a watering can. “I know some of your uncle’s staff have youngsters who could use help with their schooling.”
How clever he is. “That would never have occurred to me.”
Jim bent to pick up a toppled container. “I must go. It’s trout season,” he said, as if to explain the urgency of his mission.
Abby’s stomach dropped as he strode off between the long rows of tables. She wished he’d stay longer. When he headed back in her direction, her pulse quickened.
“You’re doing fine here.” He grinned. “If you like, when I get back I’ll take you to see the new bonsai collection.”
She let out a breath. “Let me know when you return.” What was it about the young gardener that stirred her senses?
Abby craned her neck to keep him in view as he strode off. He opened the door to his truck and glanced back. Their eyes met.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pat Jeanne Davis has a keen interest in 20th Century United States and British history, particularly the period of World War II. Her longtime interest in that era goes back to the real-life stories she heard about family members who served during the war. When Valleys Bloom Again is a debut inspirational romance set in WWII. She enjoys flower gardening, genealogy research and traveling with her British-born husband. She writes from her home n Philadelphia, Pa. Pat has published essays, short stories and articles online and in print. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She loves to hear from her readers. Visit her at https://www.patjeannedavis.com
CONNECT WITH PAT: Website | Facebook | Instagram
TOUR GIVEAWAY(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card!
Giveaway will begin at midnight April 13, 2020, and last through 11:59 PM EST on April 20, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US mailing addresses only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
Visit JustRead Tours for bonus giveaway entries!*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
Welcome to the Blog Blitz & Giveaway for When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title:
When Valleys Bloom Again
Author: Pat Jeanne Davis
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing
Release Date: January 16, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
As war approaches in 1939, Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Then Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.
Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage? Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the U.S. Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home?
EXCERPT:
Main Line Philadelphia
June 1940
Abby’s first year at Weston Teachers College over and classes out for the summer, she again offered to help out in the greenhouse. She’d overlook Jim’s response to her question two months ago on America joining the war and would work alongside him. She found him in the potting area, a large red, white, and blue handkerchief around his neck.
“I’m glad you’re here,” Jim said, grinning. He gestured toward empty ceramic pots on the ground. “I think we’ll tackle those, if that’s all right with you?”
Abby flashed a quick smile. Did he remember his curt reply back in April and her hasty departure afterwards? She squatted next to a jumble of ornamental containers.
Jim rummaged through them, then thrust his trowel into a bucket of thumb-sized stones. “About two inches of these should do.” He tipped the stones into one of the pots. “They provide slow drainage so the plant won’t dry out.” He crouched beside her. “Then fill up the container with compost—your ‘muck’—and a little top soil.”
Abby scooted to one side. Still he was good at his job. “How much of each?”
“I’m sorry, I forgot this is still new to you.” Jim moved in closer. “Half-and-half, see? Put tall daisies in the back, red impatiens in the center, and lastly along the outer edges of each container, the trailing begonias, petunias, and nasturtium so they cascade down the sides.” Suiting action to words, Jim completed one arrangement and set it beside her. “Use this as your guide, leaving two to three inches between each plant.” He smiled. “If you have a question, I’ll be nearby.”
As she toiled, Abby sensed Jim’s eyes on her and tried to catch him at it. But whenever she’d glance over, he’d look down at his hands and whistle, making a game out of it and beating her every time. Then Jim set down his trowel and strolled over, giving her one of those captivating smiles. “Off for the summer, are you?”
Abby nodded, focusing on the flowers in her hands. Please don’t come any nearer.
He removed his hat and twirled it in his hands like the first day she saw him. “Is college all you expected it to be?”
Abby’s wall of indifference collapsed, and she gazed up into those intense blue eyes below his dark eyebrows. “I’m looking forward to going back.” Her throat tightened. “Still, sometimes I feel se-se-selfish. There’s so much I could be doing at home for the war effort.”
Jim rocked back. “Selfish?” His brow furrowed. “When you complete your training, you’ll be teaching kids who’ll be future citizens.”
Abby—without breaking the lock of his eyes—flinched, taken aback by his response.
“My squirt sister with the big mouth says she wants to quit high school.” Jim hunched beside her, lowering his voice. “And the older one who had great dreams didn’t finish school.” He looked into the distance. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t go on like that.”
Surprised by his revelation, her cheeks grew warm.
“I’ll probably be one of the first call-ups if we enter this war.” He stood and swatted his hat against his thigh. “But until and if that happens my duty lies at home.”
In a flash of self-reproach, she understood. She’d misjudged him. His mother and sisters needed him, and he doesn’t want to leave them. And what had he said about his job, and how grateful he was to have it?
Jim slapped his palms together to dislodge the dirt. “It’s none of my business, but you might think about teaching on the estate during summer.” He plunged his hands into a watering can. “I know some of your uncle’s staff have youngsters who could use help with their schooling.”
How clever he is. “That would never have occurred to me.”
Jim bent to pick up a toppled container. “I must go. It’s trout season,” he said, as if to explain the urgency of his mission.
Abby’s stomach dropped as he strode off between the long rows of tables. She wished he’d stay longer. When he headed back in her direction, her pulse quickened.
“You’re doing fine here.” He grinned. “If you like, when I get back I’ll take you to see the new bonsai collection.”
She let out a breath. “Let me know when you return.” What was it about the young gardener that stirred her senses?
Abby craned her neck to keep him in view as he strode off. He opened the door to his truck and glanced back. Their eyes met.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pat Jeanne Davis has a keen interest in 20th Century United States and British history, particularly the period of World War II. Her longtime interest in that era goes back to the real-life stories she heard about family members who served during the war. When Valleys Bloom Again is a debut inspirational romance set in WWII. She enjoys flower gardening, genealogy research and traveling with her British-born husband. She writes from her home n Philadelphia, Pa. Pat has published essays, short stories and articles online and in print. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She loves to hear from her readers. Visit her at https://www.patjeannedavis.com
CONNECT WITH PAT: Website | Facebook | Instagram
TOUR GIVEAWAY(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card!
Giveaway will begin at midnight April 13, 2020, and last through 11:59 PM EST on April 20, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US mailing addresses only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
Visit JustRead Tours for bonus giveaway entries!
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.~ MMGM REVIEWER TOUR SELAH'S STOLEN DREAM ~
~ MARVELOUS MIDDLE-GRADEMONDAY HORSE ADVENTUREFEATURE ~
-- 'SELAH'S STOLEN DREAM' --
AUTHOR SUSAN COUNT~Post Includes: Book Excerpt, Review & Unique Author Interview~
LEARN MORE ON GOODREADS
EXCERPT:
Except for the dreary February weather, life was perfect. Absolutely, fantastically, completely—perfect. Today, my dreams could come true.
Today, Selah would show Sweet Dream in the biggest horse show in Texas.
And today might be the day she signed the movie contract for her and Dream to make a movie about their life. “You’re going to be a star,” she said to her reflection as she finger-combed her blonde hair and fixed a basic ponytail. “And Dream will be a famous horse star.” She imagined people wanting her autograph. She’d have to guard the horse so no one snipped a wisp of her pink mane.
It all started when her instructor, Jordan, made that training DVD of her riding lessons on Sweet Dream. When they posted it on social media, people quickly labeled it Cuteness Overload, and soon, it went viral. Then, after the wife of a movie producer watched Selah and Dream at an exposition, everything got supercharged. “Me—famous. Doesn’t feel real. Pinch me.”
On a day like today, she needed the perfect socks. It was a long- standing family conviction that mismatched socks were lucky. She hummed a happy tune as she tugged on one sock embellished with white unicorns and the other stamped with black horse heads. Balancing on the edge of the window seat, she admired her socks. “Sweet.” She tapped her toes, flipped them outward and together again.
Out her second-story window, two horses slept in the dormant Texas Bermuda grass with their legs tucked near their bellies, and Sweet Dream’s nose rested on the ground. The morning vapor shrouded the trees in wet mist while the sun gently lifted the night’s shade. When a sure sign of spring, a robin, dropped to the ground near Dream, she jerked awake. The glossy black mare threw her head high and lunged to her feet. A snort accompanied her panic.
Dream’s pasture mate, Buddy, rolled to his side and stretched out flat. The brown and white Paint was Grandpa’s old show horse. Less than a year ago, Selah tracked down the gelding and brought him home. She’d hoped Grandpa would ride with her, but he’d gotten remarried instead. It worked out. Selah’s family moved to the farm, and Grandpa and Grandma Katie lived on the farm next door.
Selah smiled at the rumble her two little brothers made scrambling down the stairs to breakfast. Living at the farm ballooned her heart with joy. She blew a kiss through the window to her equine pasture treasures.
The aroma of bacon drew her downstairs. The kitchen had gotten a fresh coat of paint, and, thank goodness, Mom had replaced Grandpa’s ancient, three-tiered puffed curtains. Eight- year-old Davy and five-year-old Michael crowded together on one chair. Their heads tilted back, they dangled a piece of bacon and chomped like alligators. When Dad frowned at them, they turned into little gentlemen. Mom slid eggs from a frying pan with her back to the comedy.
Dad gathered his coat and his keys. “We’ll drive in on Saturday and Sunday to see you show. Have fun, but stay close to Jordan. And please, take it easy on your grandpa.” When the phone rang, he gestured to Selah. “Pick that up, would you?”
“Bye, Daddy. Love you.” She waved at him. “Who would call so early?”
When she heard the movie producer’s voice, her grin widened, and she wiggled her toes in her lucky socks. She held her hand over the mouthpiece and whispered to Mom. “Miss Cindy.” She air-tapped at the phone like a woodpecker going after a beetle. Her mouth stretched wide in a silent scream.
Mom lifted Selah’s chin to close her gaping mouth. “Boys, go find something to watch on TV,” Mom whispered.
“For real?” Davy didn’t wait for her to change her mind. Michael grabbed a piece of bacon for each hand before he raced after his brother. Selah punched the button to put Miss Cindy on speaker so Mom could hear. “Contract! Today!” Selah’s fists pumped the air. Without breath, she could hardly push out her words. “It’s so exciting. We’ll be movie stars.”
“Are your parents available?”
“Yes, ma’am. Mom’s here. She can hear you.”
“Very good. When the contract arrives, your parents need to take it to a lawyer.”
Selah fanned her hand, imagining a movie star about to faint. “So exciting.”
“How did you get along with the script exploratory team?”
“We had tons of fun. They were crazy nice. They followed me and Sweet Dream around everywhere. Asked a million questions.” She managed to breathe so she could continue. “Interviewed Grandpa too. He doesn’t want to be in a movie but thought I was a natural. They thought Grandpa was a hoot and told me they got some great ideas.”
“You completely charmed them. They said your grandpa was quite the character, but they were enormously leery of the horse.” Cindy’s contagious laugh had a charm of its own.
“Sweet Dream and I understand each other. The team wants the movie to open with a scene about how I found Dream tangled in wire with the buzzards after her. I don’t see how that can work because Dream freaks at even the shadow of any bird—even a robin.” Selah rattled on while wishing her voice didn’t sound squeaky. She was a mature thirteen, but she sounded like a five- year-old shopping at the Breyer Model Horse Fest.
“They wouldn’t do anything to scare or injure her. They have their ways of getting the scenes they need. A stunt horse, trained to do specific things, will handle many of the scenes, anyway.”
She nodded along. “That makes sense.”
“They are working hard on final edits and expect to be ready to roll soon. I’m setting up the screen tests for an actress to play you. Especially excited about two young actresses who are excellent riders. Once this last of winter blows through, I’ll bring them to meet Dream before we finalize the selection.”
“To play me?” Selah’s spirit crumbled like burnt bacon bits. Her head itched right over her ear. “I thought—I would be me.” Once she started scratching, other spots needed the same treatment. “Not just anybody can ride Dream.” She sounded whiny now—worse than squeaky.
“We’re buying your story, but I’ll hire a professional actress for your character. Besides, didn’t you tell me when you made the horse training DVD, your nerves were so bad the camera crew had to keep stopping?”
She sagged against the wall. “Well, yeah, but Mr. Cooper scared me before I got to know him. I don’t throw up during filming anymore.” I know I can do it.
June: You have written four books in this ‘Dream Horse Adventure Series’. Are there any other age groups for whom you’d like to write? If yes, please tell us a little bitabout what genre(s) you would like to write. Have you ever considered writing a non-fiction book about horseback riding or equine care? Do you have any works in progress that you can share about here?
Susan: I didn’t decide to write for middle grade and go. I wrote the first story in my natural voice and then figured out it was most suited to middle-grade. Selah’s Stolen Dream, however, is for older kids because it has a stranger danger scene. I wouldn’t read it to an eight-year-old.
I don’t talk down to kids. Some vocabulary is a little beyond some younger readers. I had to define words for my granddaughter, who was seven or so when I first read her Mary’s Song. There’s a fine balance, I tried to strike between teaching new vocabulary words and not frustrating the child with too many that are beyond them.
For Mary Song, I created an audiobook because many children will struggle with the written word, but when they hear the word, they know what it is. This makes having a companion audiobook fabulous for young readers. But they are expensive and time consuming to create. If there appears to be a demand for the format, I will do the rest of the series.
I’ve tried writing picture books because they’re charming, but those are exceptionally difficult. I dabbled in writing chapter books and cannot seem to bring along a cohesive story in the highly simplistic language that’s required.
I’ve considered writing a non-fiction book for my ten-year-old granddaughter on groundwork. Something fun and at her level. But while I’ve studied horses, ridden horses, and am a slave to three, I am not a horse expert. Nor do I have any credentials to write a book like that. I leave that to the clinicians that earn their living riding, teaching, and training.
June: Tell us about some of the awards your books have won.
Susan: Even though Mary Song is technically number one in the series, the first book I actually wrote was Selah’s Sweet Dream. Agents and editors had rejected it. But I so loved the book, I proceeded with independently publishing it. I still had doubts about whether it was worthy because of its previous rejections.
So, I submitted it to a small review awards group called the Feather Quill and was quite surprised when it won first place. Then I submitted it to the American Horse Media Publication. I got a phone call saying I needed to come to Florida to their conference. Oh my gosh, the book won first place in fiction!
June: What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of being an indie author?
Susan: The advantages of being an indie author are many. I write for my granddaughter and didn’t figure out until later that if I had sold it to a publishing house, all I would’ve been left with was the copyright. Everything about the development of the book would have been their choice, not mine.
The disadvantages are also many. I knew absolutely nothing about the industry. All I had was a burning desire to write this book. What do you do with a book you think is wonderful, but has been rejected by traditional publishing—you publish it, of course.
But the challenges of independently publishing are overwhelming. Every decision is on the author. I took off my author hat and put on the publisher hat. I contracted out things I’m not capable of doing—like professional editing, artwork for the cover, professional formatting, and cover design. When I survived that process, I proceeded to the masses of decisions required to launch the book—like book blurbs, product description pages.
Have I mentioned that each one of these hats is a full-time job? And the next hat is the most intimidating hat of all. Selling your book. Did you know that you can put your book up on Amazon and hear only crickets? There are 32.8 million books on Amazon. I’m delighted to say that Mary’s Song paperback sports an orange Best Seller badge. That didn’t come by magic, but by lots of hard work.
June: All of the book covers for the books in this series are beautiful! Please tell us a little bitabout the artwork for the series. How do you connect with an illustrator to collaborate on producing a quality cover and inside illustrations?
Susan: Thank you for your kind comments on the covers. Selah’s Sweet Dream was done by an old dear friend and artist—Melissa Gates. Mary Song was acquired from an artist I’d long admired–––Ruth Sanderson. She also does princesses, which are amazing and well worth a side trip to her website. The water color cover for Selah’s Painted Dream was done by an artist in Russia. I stalked Elena Shved for months, trying to get in touch with her. Her artwork is available on Etsy. I found the artist for Selah’s Stolen Dream in a Facebook group. Lori Sanford was kind enough to take on the challenge when she already had a full-time life.
June: If you could choose anywhere in the world to travel, are there any new places you would like to go horseback riding? What puts those places on your bucket list?
Susan: I wouldn’t say I have a travel itinerary bucket list. I am very content where I am in life and don’t need to go in search of a better place or a more interesting place. When I travel, it is to enjoy quality time with family. Going to the beach in Florida with my grandchildren and watching their delight in creation is my greatest joy.
I’d planned to be packed right now to travel to horse country in Spain with my daughter and grand to work on the plot and setting for a new equine novel series. Since that can’t happen, I may have to make it all up. Oh wait. That’s exactly what I do anyway.
June: Are there any hobbies or new adventures you would like to tryin the future?
Susan: I would like to ride an Icelandic pony.
* * *My Thoughts:
'Selah's Stolen Dream' is a well-written novel targeting upper middle-grade readers due to higher-level vocabulary and some of the content.
The story features two storylines involving the same horse, Sweet Dream. Thirteen-year-old Selah is the owner of this exceptional horse which has been chosen to be the star of a feature film. Selah learns early in the story that she will not be in the film.
The second storyline involves a ten-year-old girl, Emma, who is deaf. Emma desperately wants to own a horse of her own and works very hard to make her dream come true.
Sweet Dream is stolen at a horse show along with two other horses. Understandably, Selah reacts by becoming sullen, angry, and disrespectful. At one point in the story, Selah's father gives her this advice: "There are a lot of hurting people, so aim to be kind to everyone. It might be the only good thing that happents to them in their day." (page 233)
Selah posts pictures and details about the theft of Sweet Dream on social media. A young man contacts her to tell her he may have some information about the horse, and they set up a time to meet to discuss the matter. When Selah meets 'the guy', he is an older man who wants to take Selah to see a new horse movie. Fortunately, Selah's friend Caroline and Caroline's mother save the day and rescue Selah from this predator. This is a tough lesson for a child or teen to learn, but it is something that must be taught. I appreciated the parenting style Selah's parents exhibited when their daughter was going through this tough time.
Meanwhile, Emma is at a horse auction and sees a black mare that she wants. She bids on the horse even though her father tells her they are not going to buy a horse on that day. Emma loses the bid, but a nice man withdraws his winning bid so Emma can purchase the horse. She names the horse Black Velvet and calls the mare, Velvet.
The last few chapters of the book are filled with action and drama. I was genuinely and pleasantly surprised by the ending of the story. I believe older readers, perhaps ages 11 to 14, will enjoy this story very much. I learned a lot about equine training, equine behaviors, and equine care from this story. The author has done a fine job of creating a memorable plot and memorable characters, human and equine, in this fourth installment in this series.
Disclosure: I was given a digital copy of this book by JustRead Publicity. I received no compensation of any kind for posting this review here or on any other site. The opinions expressed in this review are only my own.
LEARN MORE ON GOODREADSEXCERPT:
Except for the dreary February weather, life was perfect. Absolutely, fantastically, completely—perfect. Today, my dreams could come true.
Today, Selah would show Sweet Dream in the biggest horse show in Texas.
And today might be the day she signed the movie contract for her and Dream to make a movie about their life. “You’re going to be a star,” she said to her reflection as she finger-combed her blonde hair and fixed a basic ponytail. “And Dream will be a famous horse star.” She imagined people wanting her autograph. She’d have to guard the horse so no one snipped a wisp of her pink mane.
It all started when her instructor, Jordan, made that training DVD of her riding lessons on Sweet Dream. When they posted it on social media, people quickly labeled it Cuteness Overload, and soon, it went viral. Then, after the wife of a movie producer watched Selah and Dream at an exposition, everything got supercharged. “Me—famous. Doesn’t feel real. Pinch me.”
On a day like today, she needed the perfect socks. It was a long- standing family conviction that mismatched socks were lucky. She hummed a happy tune as she tugged on one sock embellished with white unicorns and the other stamped with black horse heads. Balancing on the edge of the window seat, she admired her socks. “Sweet.” She tapped her toes, flipped them outward and together again.
Out her second-story window, two horses slept in the dormant Texas Bermuda grass with their legs tucked near their bellies, and Sweet Dream’s nose rested on the ground. The morning vapor shrouded the trees in wet mist while the sun gently lifted the night’s shade. When a sure sign of spring, a robin, dropped to the ground near Dream, she jerked awake. The glossy black mare threw her head high and lunged to her feet. A snort accompanied her panic.
Dream’s pasture mate, Buddy, rolled to his side and stretched out flat. The brown and white Paint was Grandpa’s old show horse. Less than a year ago, Selah tracked down the gelding and brought him home. She’d hoped Grandpa would ride with her, but he’d gotten remarried instead. It worked out. Selah’s family moved to the farm, and Grandpa and Grandma Katie lived on the farm next door.
Selah smiled at the rumble her two little brothers made scrambling down the stairs to breakfast. Living at the farm ballooned her heart with joy. She blew a kiss through the window to her equine pasture treasures.
The aroma of bacon drew her downstairs. The kitchen had gotten a fresh coat of paint, and, thank goodness, Mom had replaced Grandpa’s ancient, three-tiered puffed curtains. Eight- year-old Davy and five-year-old Michael crowded together on one chair. Their heads tilted back, they dangled a piece of bacon and chomped like alligators. When Dad frowned at them, they turned into little gentlemen. Mom slid eggs from a frying pan with her back to the comedy.
Dad gathered his coat and his keys. “We’ll drive in on Saturday and Sunday to see you show. Have fun, but stay close to Jordan. And please, take it easy on your grandpa.” When the phone rang, he gestured to Selah. “Pick that up, would you?”
“Bye, Daddy. Love you.” She waved at him. “Who would call so early?”
When she heard the movie producer’s voice, her grin widened, and she wiggled her toes in her lucky socks. She held her hand over the mouthpiece and whispered to Mom. “Miss Cindy.” She air-tapped at the phone like a woodpecker going after a beetle. Her mouth stretched wide in a silent scream.
Mom lifted Selah’s chin to close her gaping mouth. “Boys, go find something to watch on TV,” Mom whispered.
“For real?” Davy didn’t wait for her to change her mind. Michael grabbed a piece of bacon for each hand before he raced after his brother. Selah punched the button to put Miss Cindy on speaker so Mom could hear. “Contract! Today!” Selah’s fists pumped the air. Without breath, she could hardly push out her words. “It’s so exciting. We’ll be movie stars.”
“Are your parents available?”
“Yes, ma’am. Mom’s here. She can hear you.”
“Very good. When the contract arrives, your parents need to take it to a lawyer.”
Selah fanned her hand, imagining a movie star about to faint. “So exciting.”
“How did you get along with the script exploratory team?”
“We had tons of fun. They were crazy nice. They followed me and Sweet Dream around everywhere. Asked a million questions.” She managed to breathe so she could continue. “Interviewed Grandpa too. He doesn’t want to be in a movie but thought I was a natural. They thought Grandpa was a hoot and told me they got some great ideas.”
“You completely charmed them. They said your grandpa was quite the character, but they were enormously leery of the horse.” Cindy’s contagious laugh had a charm of its own.
“Sweet Dream and I understand each other. The team wants the movie to open with a scene about how I found Dream tangled in wire with the buzzards after her. I don’t see how that can work because Dream freaks at even the shadow of any bird—even a robin.” Selah rattled on while wishing her voice didn’t sound squeaky. She was a mature thirteen, but she sounded like a five- year-old shopping at the Breyer Model Horse Fest.
“They wouldn’t do anything to scare or injure her. They have their ways of getting the scenes they need. A stunt horse, trained to do specific things, will handle many of the scenes, anyway.”
She nodded along. “That makes sense.”
“They are working hard on final edits and expect to be ready to roll soon. I’m setting up the screen tests for an actress to play you. Especially excited about two young actresses who are excellent riders. Once this last of winter blows through, I’ll bring them to meet Dream before we finalize the selection.”
“To play me?” Selah’s spirit crumbled like burnt bacon bits. Her head itched right over her ear. “I thought—I would be me.” Once she started scratching, other spots needed the same treatment. “Not just anybody can ride Dream.” She sounded whiny now—worse than squeaky.
“We’re buying your story, but I’ll hire a professional actress for your character. Besides, didn’t you tell me when you made the horse training DVD, your nerves were so bad the camera crew had to keep stopping?”
She sagged against the wall. “Well, yeah, but Mr. Cooper scared me before I got to know him. I don’t throw up during filming anymore.” I know I can do it.
June: You have written four books in this ‘Dream Horse Adventure Series’. Are there any other age groups for whom you’d like to write? If yes, please tell us a little bitabout what genre(s) you would like to write. Have you ever considered writing a non-fiction book about horseback riding or equine care? Do you have any works in progress that you can share about here?
Susan: I didn’t decide to write for middle grade and go. I wrote the first story in my natural voice and then figured out it was most suited to middle-grade. Selah’s Stolen Dream, however, is for older kids because it has a stranger danger scene. I wouldn’t read it to an eight-year-old.
I don’t talk down to kids. Some vocabulary is a little beyond some younger readers. I had to define words for my granddaughter, who was seven or so when I first read her Mary’s Song. There’s a fine balance, I tried to strike between teaching new vocabulary words and not frustrating the child with too many that are beyond them.
For Mary Song, I created an audiobook because many children will struggle with the written word, but when they hear the word, they know what it is. This makes having a companion audiobook fabulous for young readers. But they are expensive and time consuming to create. If there appears to be a demand for the format, I will do the rest of the series.
I’ve tried writing picture books because they’re charming, but those are exceptionally difficult. I dabbled in writing chapter books and cannot seem to bring along a cohesive story in the highly simplistic language that’s required.
I’ve considered writing a non-fiction book for my ten-year-old granddaughter on groundwork. Something fun and at her level. But while I’ve studied horses, ridden horses, and am a slave to three, I am not a horse expert. Nor do I have any credentials to write a book like that. I leave that to the clinicians that earn their living riding, teaching, and training.
June: Tell us about some of the awards your books have won.
Susan: Even though Mary Song is technically number one in the series, the first book I actually wrote was Selah’s Sweet Dream. Agents and editors had rejected it. But I so loved the book, I proceeded with independently publishing it. I still had doubts about whether it was worthy because of its previous rejections.
So, I submitted it to a small review awards group called the Feather Quill and was quite surprised when it won first place. Then I submitted it to the American Horse Media Publication. I got a phone call saying I needed to come to Florida to their conference. Oh my gosh, the book won first place in fiction!
June: What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of being an indie author?
Susan: The advantages of being an indie author are many. I write for my granddaughter and didn’t figure out until later that if I had sold it to a publishing house, all I would’ve been left with was the copyright. Everything about the development of the book would have been their choice, not mine.
The disadvantages are also many. I knew absolutely nothing about the industry. All I had was a burning desire to write this book. What do you do with a book you think is wonderful, but has been rejected by traditional publishing—you publish it, of course.
But the challenges of independently publishing are overwhelming. Every decision is on the author. I took off my author hat and put on the publisher hat. I contracted out things I’m not capable of doing—like professional editing, artwork for the cover, professional formatting, and cover design. When I survived that process, I proceeded to the masses of decisions required to launch the book—like book blurbs, product description pages.
Have I mentioned that each one of these hats is a full-time job? And the next hat is the most intimidating hat of all. Selling your book. Did you know that you can put your book up on Amazon and hear only crickets? There are 32.8 million books on Amazon. I’m delighted to say that Mary’s Song paperback sports an orange Best Seller badge. That didn’t come by magic, but by lots of hard work.
June: All of the book covers for the books in this series are beautiful! Please tell us a little bitabout the artwork for the series. How do you connect with an illustrator to collaborate on producing a quality cover and inside illustrations?
Susan: Thank you for your kind comments on the covers. Selah’s Sweet Dream was done by an old dear friend and artist—Melissa Gates. Mary Song was acquired from an artist I’d long admired–––Ruth Sanderson. She also does princesses, which are amazing and well worth a side trip to her website. The water color cover for Selah’s Painted Dream was done by an artist in Russia. I stalked Elena Shved for months, trying to get in touch with her. Her artwork is available on Etsy. I found the artist for Selah’s Stolen Dream in a Facebook group. Lori Sanford was kind enough to take on the challenge when she already had a full-time life.
June: If you could choose anywhere in the world to travel, are there any new places you would like to go horseback riding? What puts those places on your bucket list?
Susan: I wouldn’t say I have a travel itinerary bucket list. I am very content where I am in life and don’t need to go in search of a better place or a more interesting place. When I travel, it is to enjoy quality time with family. Going to the beach in Florida with my grandchildren and watching their delight in creation is my greatest joy.
I’d planned to be packed right now to travel to horse country in Spain with my daughter and grand to work on the plot and setting for a new equine novel series. Since that can’t happen, I may have to make it all up. Oh wait. That’s exactly what I do anyway.
June: Are there any hobbies or new adventures you would like to tryin the future?
Susan: I would like to ride an Icelandic pony.
* * *My Thoughts:
'Selah's Stolen Dream' is a well-written novel targeting upper middle-grade readers due to higher-level vocabulary and some of the content.
The story features two storylines involving the same horse, Sweet Dream. Thirteen-year-old Selah is the owner of this exceptional horse which has been chosen to be the star of a feature film. Selah learns early in the story that she will not be in the film.
The second storyline involves a ten-year-old girl, Emma, who is deaf. Emma desperately wants to own a horse of her own and works very hard to make her dream come true.
Sweet Dream is stolen at a horse show along with two other horses. Understandably, Selah reacts by becoming sullen, angry, and disrespectful. At one point in the story, Selah's father gives her this advice: "There are a lot of hurting people, so aim to be kind to everyone. It might be the only good thing that happents to them in their day." (page 233)
Selah posts pictures and details about the theft of Sweet Dream on social media. A young man contacts her to tell her he may have some information about the horse, and they set up a time to meet to discuss the matter. When Selah meets 'the guy', he is an older man who wants to take Selah to see a new horse movie. Fortunately, Selah's friend Caroline and Caroline's mother save the day and rescue Selah from this predator. This is a tough lesson for a child or teen to learn, but it is something that must be taught. I appreciated the parenting style Selah's parents exhibited when their daughter was going through this tough time.
Meanwhile, Emma is at a horse auction and sees a black mare that she wants. She bids on the horse even though her father tells her they are not going to buy a horse on that day. Emma loses the bid, but a nice man withdraws his winning bid so Emma can purchase the horse. She names the horse Black Velvet and calls the mare, Velvet.
The last few chapters of the book are filled with action and drama. I was genuinely and pleasantly surprised by the ending of the story. I believe older readers, perhaps ages 11 to 14, will enjoy this story very much. I learned a lot about equine training, equine behaviors, and equine care from this story. The author has done a fine job of creating a memorable plot and memorable characters, human and equine, in this fourth installment in this series.
Disclosure: I was given a digital copy of this book by JustRead Publicity. I received no compensation of any kind for posting this review here or on any other site. The opinions expressed in this review are only my own.
~ Author June McCrary Jacobs ~
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