Robin E. Mason's Blog: Robin's Book Shelf, page 79
May 15, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Saturday 15 May 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE SECRET PLACE by CAMILLE EIDE
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE SECRET PLACE by CAMILLE EIDE
Book Name The Secret Place
Author Camille Eide
Publisher WhiteFire Publishing
THE BLURB
How far can love bend before it breaks?
Josie Norris became an instant mommy when her twin sister Nadine handed over her newborn son and vanished. What Josie saw as a temporary arrangement grew into a mother-son bond too deep to uproot. But with her irrational sister threatening to steal him back, Josie has been living the last few years with Kennedy in hiding, afraid to go home.
When Aunt Libby—the only person who knows the truth about Kennedy—suffers a traumatic head injury, Josie rushes to her McKenzie River home to help Gram care for the woman who raised her. But not only is Libby’s injury causing family secrets to spill, it’s forcing Josie to see the women in her life in a new light.
Will—a ranger who Kennedy adores and who Josie is determined not to—is desperate to help the woman who has stolen his affections. But can Josie ever truly be authentic with the man she loves? With her son’s fate hanging in the balance, she is faced with the choice to risk everything she loves in order to bridge the most impossible gulfs.
In this story of mothers, daughters, and sisters, Josie must find the grace to forgive people for not being who she needed them to be…and the courage to surrender her fears to the God who has never once left her side.
PURCHASE LINK: https://amzn.to/3nqrQ8O
Camille Eide writes more than a romance with her tender tales of love, faith, and family for those who enjoy inspirational romance and women’s fiction. Her novel, The Memoir of Johnny Devine, was awarded 5 Gold Stars/Top Pick, Best Inspirational Romance, & the December Seal of Excellence from RT Book Reviews, and Oregon Christian Writers’ Best Historical Fiction.
Please visit my website at http://www.camilleeide.com
MY REVIEW
The dynamics in this story are volatile! A mother who abandons her little girls; the mysterious connection between twins shattered and severed; a stranger in the woods—and the handsome and winsome forest ranger.
Life throws curve balls at us all. Some of us manage to “duck,” and avoid [most of] them. Some of us (this reader among them) seem to collect those curve balls and display them like trophies.
Only through the grace of God can any of us survive the good times, let alone those “curve balls.”
Ms. Eide has certainly thrown a bunch of them at her characters; and she portrays the depth of human nature in the various responses—burying the past and pretending it never happened; living in fear—and unforgiveness—and running away; harboring unforgiveness and laying blame. Ms. Eide’s story reaches deep, touches raw nerves.
Oh, how I related to Josie, to her sense of insignificance. Her questions of worth. How I longed to come alongside her, to pour the love of God into her heart.
And Nadine! I couldn’t turn pages fast enough to find out what happened to [SPOILER.] This reader has always had a fascination with twins, and I longed to see Josie and Nadine reunited.
Such a deep and profound story, told so masterfully and beautifully.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, The Secret Place, AUTHOR, SERIES, JustRead Publicity#justreadtours #TheSecretPlace #CamilleEide #WhiteFirePublishing #giveaway
May 13, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 11 May 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – SUDDENLY FOREVER by TERESA TYSINGER
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – SUDDENLY FOREVER by TERESA TYSINGER
ABOUT THE BOOK
Book: Suddenly Forever
Author: Teresa Tysinger
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Release date: October 6, 2020
THE BLURB
On the outskirts of Laurel Cove, North Carolina sits a quiet lake tucked into gentle mountains carpeted with the brilliant colors of autumn. Grief binds the lake’s only residents into an unlikely family, where old and new love build a bridge between loss and hope.
For years, best-selling author Cora Bradford has worked tirelessly to tread the unrelenting waves of grief in solitude. That is until a new neighbor moves in down the road and threatens to disrupt what she’s carefully preserved of the life she once knew. Will God ever answer her prayer for peace and calmer waters?
Following a scandal, Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Luke Bassett escapes to the one place in the world he’s ever experienced peace—his mother’s cabin on the lake where he spent childhood summers. But the memory of her and the mistakes he made are hardly peaceful. To make matters worse, he gets off to a rocky start with his bitter, but breathtakingly beautiful, neighbor. Was running away from the life he’s always known the biggest mistake of all, or the beginning of something he never knew he wanted?
Spunky, opinionated, and recently widowed Ina McLean is alone for the first time in over ninety years. When Cora and Luke come together to care for their only other neighbor, Ina’s belief in God’s goodness through life’s ups and downs works to restore their hope in learning to live—and love—again.
Click here to get your copy!
Teresa Tysinger is an author of Southern Contemporary Romance inspired by grace. She writes on the fringes of being a wife, mom, and full-time communications and public relations professional. Teresa is a member of ACFW, the Association for Women in Communications, and the Religion Communicators Council. She loves coffee, traveling, and prides herself in knowing and loving almost every genre of music. Born in Hawaii, raised in Florida, and educated in North Carolina, she now resides in Texas with her husband, daughter, and dog.
MORE FROM TERESA
Hi Readers!
As an author, I love each of my stories. There’s no denying, though, that Suddenly Forever holds a special place in my heart. I think it always will. The second in my Laurel Cove Romance Series, Cora and Luke’s story came together differently than any other I’ve written.
Most often, a new story of mine begins with a simple notion or seed of an idea. I brainstorm and fit pieces together until a more complete idea begins to take shape. The process usually takes weeks and sometimes months. Suddenly Forever was completely different! One night I could not fall asleep. I tossed and turned for what seemed like hours. Characters’ faces sprang to mind like snapshots. Their personalities, fears, and desires sort of just clicked into place. Scenes played out from start to finish. The “noise” of this waking dream was so vivid that I eventually reached for my phone on my nightstand and punch out the ideas in my Notes app.
By the time I finally fell asleep that night, the entire story was clear in my mind. The next day, I sat down and began drafting Cora and Luke’s story. It was the fastest first draft I’ve ever written! The story just poured out of me. By the time I finished just over a month later, I felt as though I’d ran a sprint, getting the scenes down as fast as they’d come to me so I could get to the next. It was exhilarating and exhausting and super rewarding.
More than once, I wondered why this story had come to me so quickly and clearly compared to others. After some reflection and prayer, I believe it’s because this story isn’t mine at all. It’s God’s. I’ve always approached my writing with a prayerful heart that God would meet me on the pages and fill it in with His truths so readers might see Him. But this felt different. This felt as though God simply needed someone with fingers to type.
And so, my prayer as you read Suddenly Forever is that God’s messages come through loud and clear. To the reader who, like Cora, grieves a lost loved one, may you see God’s healing hand and feel His peace. To the reader who may one day encounter someone grieving, may you see the lessons of patience and compassion cultivated in Luke. May you all be reminded of God’s ever-present love for you!
I hope you’ll join me this summer as I invite you again to visit Laurel Cove. The third book in the Laurel Cove Romance Series, Someone Found, releases in May! Blessings and happy reading!
MY REVIEW
Why do we run from God when His embrace is what we need most? Why do we try to manage—life, grief, joy, the good, the bad—on our own when He created us to need Him.
And each other.
Grief, when it comes, takes each of us on a different journey. For Cora, it was a journey inward, a journey of isolation.
Ms. Tysinger portrays Cora’s grief vividly, masterfully. The nightmares, the routines—her saving grace—her disinterest in anything but [SPOILER.]
Waging his own battle with grief, Luke steps into Cora’s life—and unwittingly into the role of guiding out of her grief.
And Ina. I kept thinking of Hebrews 13:2 (Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. NKJV) Such a character. And such wisdom.
Poignant only begins to describe this story. The journey from grief to living again is a shaky one, and Ms. Tysinger leads Cora through the minefield with realism and painful honesty. Told beautifully, the author portrays Father God’s healing touch, even in those darkest moments of our lives when we feel utterly distanced—abandoned even—from Him.
PS – The island. Special place. Tender moments. Bittersweet memories.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
To celebrate her, Teresa is giving away the grand prize package of a Zippered Book Sleeve (8×10), a “Library” Candle (4 oz), a Suddenly Forever Book Quote Card (4×6), and a $10 Amazon Gift Card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/10b5f/suddenly-forever-celebration-tour-giveaway
BLOG STOPS
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 30
Books and Everyday Life, April 30
Texas Book-aholic, May 1
Inklings and notions, May 2
For Him and My Family, May 3
Remembrancy, May 3
deb’s Book Review, May 4
Locks, Hooks and Books, May 5
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 6
Blogging With Carol, May 6
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 7
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, May 8
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, May 9
Britt Reads Fiction, May 9
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 10
Through the Fire Blogs, May 11
Pick A Good Book, May 11
CarpeDiem, May 12
Labor Not in Vain, May 13
Godly Book Reviews, May 13
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Suddenly Forever, Teresa Tysinger, A Laurel Cove Romance, Celebrate Lit Publicity
May 4, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Friday 30 April 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – BEGOTTEN by LISA T. BERGREN
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – BEGOTTEN by LISA T. BERGREN 
Their coming was foretold for centuries…
and their gathering threatens to change everything.
A portion of an ancient, beautifully illuminated letter—a letter believed to have been written by Saint Paul—has surfaced. The letter speaks of men and women with profound spiritual gifts and the illuminations bear a striking resemblance to those drawing together in medieval Italy.
Their gathering will strike fear in the heart of a Church dedicated to maintaining their considerable power. But there is another enemy on the hunt for them and he is darker still…
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling author of over fifty novels, children’s books, and nonfiction books. Lisa and her husband Tim reside in Colorado with their three big kids and a white, fluffy dog named Talisker Beatrice.
You can find out more about Lisa & stay up to date by following her…
On the Web: http://www.LisaTawnBergren.com
On Facebook: Lisa Tawn Bergren; River of Time Series
On Twitter: LisaTBergren
MY REVIEW
The battle of good versus evil is timeless. This story may be set in Medieval Italy but it could be current day—truly any era since the time of Christ. Or the beginning of time.
The author clearly has a deep understanding of what it is to be a follower of Christ, to walk according to His will. To utilize the gifts God has endowed upon each one of us. As she has done with her writing.
Ms. Bergren works such mysterious moments into her story from the first pages. Coincidences that are not coincidental at all. Events and people that converge at just the right moment—minutes or even seconds sooner or later and the chance would be lost. The outcome different entirely.
The characters in this story embrace their Gifting as any of us would—with doubts and questions, wonder and awe, ultimately embracing it with their whole heart. With an inner knowing, beyond mere confidence, even in facing great spiritual opposition.
The telling is as rich and vibrant and intriguing as any tapestry hanging on the castle walls. Mystery and secrets, the dark enemy lurking about, God working His miracles through His chosen, His select. His begotten.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Friday, #TRD, Book Review, Begotten, Lisa Tawn Bergren, JustRead Publicity
May 3, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Saturday 24 April 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – SPILLED MILK by HEATHER DAY GILBERT
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – SPILLED MILK by HEATHER DAY GILBERT
THE BLURB
Welcome to the Barks & Beans Cafe, a quaint place where folks pet shelter dogs while enjoying a cup of java…and where murder sometimes pays a visit.
The fall flea market has arrived in Macy’s small mountain town, and she’s taking a day off work to check out the local wares. As she and her Great Dane, Coal, wander through the booths, Macy’s more than a little taken aback to discover that her enigmatic tattooed barista, Kylie, is selling antique weapons at the event.
She’s even more shocked when Coal sniffs out a dead body…and the man appears to have been struck down by one of Kylie’s swords.
As rumors begin to circulate, the Barks & Beans Cafe also takes a hit. Customers are reluctant to order their mochas from a murderess. Macy stands by her employee, but even she believes there’s a whole lot more to Kylie’s history than the woman lets on. To make matters worse, Macy’s brother Bo is out of the country, leaving the cafe’s future in her hands.
And then her ex-husband Jake shows up, begging to make amends.
With the past rearing its ugly head, Macy has to ignore Jake’s distractions, appease the angst of her nervous customers, and convince Kylie to trust her, all before an elusive killer strikes again.
HEATHER DAY GILBERT, an ECPA Christy award finalist and Grace award winner, writes contemporary mysteries and Viking historicals. Her novels feature small towns, family relationships, and women who aren’t afraid to protect those they love. Publisher’s Weekly gave Heather’s Viking historical Forest Child a starred review, saying it is “an engaging story depicting timeless human struggles with faith, love, loyalty, and leadership.”
Find Heather on Pinterest (heatherdgilbert), Instagram (@heatherdaygilbert), Twitter (@heatherdgilbert), and Facebook (heatherdaygilbert). You can find all her books at heatherdaygilbert.com
MY REVIEW
“Ms. Gilbert’s writing is brilliant, her characters real and fun, her stories a delight to read, and I look forward to the next book in this series, Spilled Milk.” (from my review of Fair Trade, 10 November 2020, https://robinsnest212.wordpress.com/2020/11/10/blogwords-tuesday-10-november-2020-tuesday-reviews-day-book-review-fair-trade-by-heather-day-gilbert/ )
Macy Hatfield has become a good friend by now, practically family. I always enjoy going along for the ride on one of her adventures. Her tenacity, her sense of justice, her knack for reading people. And of course her love of dogs! (Although this reviewer is 100% a cat person.)
Ms. Gilbert twists and weaves so many threads into her stories—I could feel the energy leaping off the page.
Macy encounters first one victim and then another, with strong evidence pointing at her friend, what Macy uncovers is not her friend’s guilt, but a [SPOILER] in Kylie’s past—and in the process, they both uncover a nwew friendship.
Macy follows one clue after another until she comes face to face [SPOILER].
Bo was out of the picture for Macy’s adventure this time. But we meet Jake in this story and all I can say is, what a rat! And as her heart weighs her choices I truly wasn’t sure which fella she would choose. I will say, I agree with her choice!
With just the right balance of tension and humor, mystery and romance, this story keeps the reader guessing. And I gotta say, I did not see that ending coming!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series in order:
Book 1: No Filter
Book 2: Iced Over
Book 3: Fair Trade
Book 4: Spilled Milk
Book 5: Trouble Brewing (coming in October)
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, Spilled Milk, Heather Day Gilbert, Barks & Beans Café Cozy Mystery
April 30, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 27 April 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – WATCHER by SARA DAVISON
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – WATCHER by SARA DAVISON 
Someone or something is watching Kathryn Ellison.
Kathryn thought she had buried memories of That Night for good—until Nick Lawson returns, reigniting her long-suppressed feelings for him. Seeing Nick has always reminded her too much of the horrible night that changed her life. As much as she wants to be with him, she wants even more to forget. When Nick unexpectedly shows up at her family ranch, Kathryn knows it is finally time to let go of the traumatic past that has held her captive for so long.
David Henley is a captive too—of the dark secret involving Kathryn, a secret he’s kept even from his wife. Now the truth is about to be revealed. And when it is, he could be stripped of everything in his life that matters to him.
A storm is brewing in the spiritual realm, and its effects reverberate through the natural world, summoning otherworldly Beings to the ranch. While Kathryn confronts the memories of That Night and struggles to let them go, she is not as alone in her home as she thinks.
As spiritual and temporal forces collide, Kathryn—and everyone she loves—is about to be caught in the crossfire.
** Christian fiction that deals with a sensitive subject.
THE AUTHOR
Sara Davison is the author of the romantic suspense novel, The Watcher, and the romantic suspense series, The Seven Trilogy. 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. Sara has a degree in English Literature from Queen’s University. She currently resides in Ontario, Canada with her husband Michael and their three children, all of whom she (literally) looks up to. Her favourite way to spend the days (and nights) is drinking coffee and making stuff up. Get to know Sara better at http://www.saradavison.org and @sarajdavison.
MY REVIEW
Rarely is a story so poignant, so gripping, so horrific, and yet so eloquent in its telling. With a sprinkling of humor, even. And yet, Ms. Davison has gifted her readers with such a treasure.
Watcher opens the veil to the spirit world, reminding us that even when we can’t (or don’t want to) see God, He is always with us. So, too, are spiritual beings, both heavenly and otherwise.
Most of us have not endured the extreme trauma Kathryn has. But all of us have faced trials. And all of us carry scars and memories, and baggage. All of us struggle to let go, to forgive, to truly walk in all that Father God has for us.
Ms. Davison chronicles Kathryn’s healing—and release—from the event that changed her life, and scarred her spirit. So many elements conspire to restore her to wholeness, or to destroy her completely—very literally a battle of good versus evil. The author doesn’t sugar coat the truth, though she does provide a break in the tension with the voice of the narrator—The Watcher.
Oh! How I wanted to wrap Kathryn in a great hug and make it all go away, make the “boo-boo” better. I yearned for her to find that peace that only comes from God, that full and final healing. I eagerly turned pages, awaiting the moment her victory arrived.
Nick. Near to sainthood, methinks. It’s not many men who would wait as he did, so sure of his love for her. Grace personified.
The threads of this story, the crisscross of the characters’ lives—Kathryn, Nick, Halyna, David, Dylan—for good, for evil, for God’s purpose. Ms. Davison takes her cue from God Himself, and does not take free will from her characters.
A story of forgiveness and one woman’s journey to healing, the impact is deep and weighty, and it will linger with me for a long time.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
April 29, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 21 April 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DUST by EVA MARIE EVERSON
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DUST by EVA MARIE EVERSON
THE BLURB
Can an ordinary life leave an extraordinary legacy?
In 1977, when nineteen-year-old Allison Middleton receives a proposal of marriage from Westley Houser, she eagerly accepts, having no idea the secret Westley carries—a secret that will change Allison’s life forever. But Allison rises to the challenge of raising Westley’s toddling daughter as though she were her own.
Over the course of their lifetime together, Allison, Westley, and Michelle form the strong bond of family. As Allison struggles with infertility and finding her way during a time of great change for women, others—some she knows and others whom she never meets—brush and weave against the fabric of her life, leaving her with more questions than answers.
From teen bride to grandmother, Allison’s life chronicles the ups and downs of an ordinary woman’s life to examine the value of what we all leave behind.
First, allow me to clarify that my website is
EvaMarieEversonAuthor.com
(EvaMarieEverson(dot) com is a domain squat.
Now. About me: I was born and reared just outside of Savannah, Georgia in a charming small town, Sylvania, Georgia. Yeah, I have a southern accent. It gets a little more southern every time I cross the Florida/Georgia state line. I believe one must go North to get South of here.
When I’m not writing, I’m editing. When I’m not editing, I’m running Word Weavers International, an international membership group of writers who, using the art of critique, become iron sharpening iron. I am also one of the two directors of Florida Christian Writers Conference. I speak at writers conferences across America and to women’s groups as well as to congregations.
I’m rarely still and I sleep very little.
Life is good.
MY REVIEW
“Dust in the wind, All we are is dust in the wind.” Lyrics by Kansas, Point of No Return, © 1977
I remember that song, I remember the despair of it. I believe all of us wonder, seek our purpose in life. And Ms. Everson has written a profound story that asks—and answers—that question. She reaches deep into the soul, and digs deeper still.
It almost reads like “The Life of…” chronicling Allison’s life, both major life events and daily trivialality—and the heartbreak that befalls her.
As the years pass, and people come and go in her life, she asks “that” question. And in the way that God so often does—subtly and without fanfare, almost unnoticeable—He answers.
While Allison’s life may have seemed mundane and ordinary, Ms. Everson’s characters certainly were not. From quirks and habits, strengths and weaknesses, the people in this story are authentic and genuine.
Westley, though, annoyed me to no end, keeping his secret from Allison as he did. Otherwise, he was a great guy, likeable, tender and caring with her.
Ms. Everson is a master at weaving a story that tugs at the reader’s heart, holding you captive.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Dust, Eva Marie Everson, JustRead Publicity
April 21, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 20 April 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DEEPEST ROOTS OF THE HEART by CHAUTONA HAVIG
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DEEPEST ROOTS OF THE HEART by CHAUTONA HAVIG
ABOUT THE BOOK
Book: Deepest Roots of the Heart
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Fiction / Historical / Romance
Release date: January 20, 2015
THE BLURB
The Carrillos have a history in the valley that stretches as deep as grapevine roots in the soil.
During WWII, Avelino Carrillo spent four harrowing years in the South Pacific with one thought driving his survival: to return to his beloved home in Napa Valley.
The Carrillos have a history in the valley that stretches deep, like grapevine roots in the soil. For a century, they worked the vineyard at their family home, la Casa de los Sueños, until they lost the property to a wealthy land baron. Now, Avelino is determined to reclaim the land and home he loves so much. When he meets Amelia, a young woman who lives at the vineyard with her grandfather, he finds that regaining his birthright isn’t his only struggle—he battles the longing of his heart as well.
Can Avelino overcome the local bigotry and personal demons that face him to create the life he desires?
THE AUTHOR
Using story to connect readers with the Master Storyteller.
Author of the bestselling Aggie and Past Forward series, Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.
MORE FROM CHAUTONA
I Fell in Love with California & History in the Same Year
When the second pastor of small churches with private Christian schools was hauled off to jail, the pastor of our little school closed the doors—just in case. Several of us went underground as homeschoolers in a time when homeschooling was something people did when they were missionaries or lived in… Alaska or something.
There I sat at our kitchen table in Ventura, doing my schoolwork at our little kitchen table. On Wednesday and Sunday nights, I’d take tests in the school office, get my new PACEs (“Packet of Accelerated Christian Education”) and go home to work again. Sometimes, I’d sit up in my room to read the bigger chunks of information—like from my California State History PACEs.
Look, I don’t know if all states have such great history, but California’s fascinated me. I remember coloring the state map, the missions, and the flag—despite it not being required. I looked for more books about it, and in the process, I fell in love with history.
A couple of years later, my aunt brought heaping bags of books for us to read when we lived out in the middle of nowhere with no electricity or running water. We were bored. But she brought books. In those sacks? A tiny little paperback. The Legend of Susan Dane.
Although that book had its utterly ridiculous moments, it also sparked something in me. Between eyerolls of disgust at everyone fawning over Susan Dane’s reputed beauty and over a strapless dress in the last quarter of the 19th century, it showed a beautiful picture of the lives of the Californios.
That book fanned the flames of my love of history until I burned with curiosity over what was reasonable. What wasn’t. And how to find out what really happened.
Fast forward a couple of decades, and a character emerged—a Californio who refused to learn ingles for the sake of the immigrants to his country. Don Ruiz Carrillo said, “If I go to their country, I learn their language, but if they come to my country, they should learn mine.” In short, I took the words I’d heard my own father say all my life and turned it on its head. I put an American in California before statehood and without means to learn the language.
When señor Carrillo meets the young Americano with red hair and freckles, she tells a heartbreaking story that she manages to convey through pantomime and her attempts to imitate his language. Here, I deviated from my father. While Dad would be kind and helpful in teaching someone his language in his country, señor Carrillo decides that this young woman is more important than his preferences.
That story is still being written—Crushed Dreams. However, when I realized how I wanted to end the story, I knew I had a problem. The final book in this series will have a bittersweet ending—one with hope and promise, but not technically “happy.” So, I decided to write a prequel/sequel to the series—a split-time novel where the reader lives the past with the characters of the present. This way, going into the entire series, you know there’s a happy ending, so you can appreciate the heartache and sacrifice that will come in that last book.
Crushed Dreams is slated to release soon, so I’m eager to share the prequel to the Legacy of the Vines series with you.
MY REVIEW
The depth, the richness of this story leaves an indelible imprint on the reader’s heart. If news headlines are black and white, Ms. Havig’s story is the paintbrush that puts color to the story.
I love a good dual timeline story, and especially appreciate the way Ms. Havig weaves history into the present.
The attraction between Avelino and Amelia sparked from their first moments and smoldered till they had no fight against it left.
Avelino’s history is poignant and bittersweet, and defines who he is. Amelia’s past is less prominent in the story, but leaves no less impact on her.
I read eagerly, anxious to [SPOILER] brought to justice. I hoped for the happy ending the story promised.
It seemed to this reader that the story ended abruptly. While it came to its natural conclusion, I had questions still when I reached the final pages.
Still, this is a beautiful story of human character and resiliency, a story of love that truly conquers all.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon Gift card & paperback!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/10a52/deepest-roots-of-the-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway
BLOG STOPS
lakesidelivingsite, April 13
A Novel Pursuit, April 13
She Lives To Read, April 14
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, April 15
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 16
Artistic Nobody, April 16 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Rebecca Tews, April 17
Connie’s History Classroom, April 18
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 19
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 19
Texas Book-aholic, April 20
Inklings and notions, April 21
For Him and My Family, April 22
Mary Hake, April 22
deb’s Book Review, April 23
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 24
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 25
CarpeDiem, April 25
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 26
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Deepest Roots of the Heart, Chautona Havig, Legacy of the Vines, Celebrate Lit Publicity
March 30, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 30 March 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – HOPE BETWEEN THE PAGES by PEPPER BASHAM
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – HOPE BETWEEN THE PAGES by PEPPER BASHAM
Uncover the Story Behind a One-Hundred-Year-Old Love Letter
Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series of historical stories of romance and adventure.
Clara Blackwell helps her mother manage a struggling one-hundred-year old family bookshop in Asheville, North Carolina, but the discovery of a forgotten letter opens a mystery of a long-lost romance and undiscovered inheritance which could save its future. Forced to step outside of her predictable world, Clara embarks on an adventure with only the name Oliver as a hint of the man’s identity in her great-great-grandmother’s letter. From the nearby grand estate of the Vanderbilts, to a hamlet in Derbyshire, England, Clara seeks to uncover truth about family and love that may lead to her own unexpected romance.
THE AUTHOR
Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with a southern Appalachian flair. Her books have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inpsys, and the ACFW Carol Awards, with The Thorn Healer selected as a 2018 finalist in the RT awards. Both her contemporary and historical romance novels consistently receive high ratings from Romantic Times, with Just the Way You Are as a Top Pick. Most recently she’s introduced readers to Bath, UK through her novellas, Second Impressions and Jane by the Book, and taken readers into the exciting world of WW2 espionage in her novella, Façade. The second novel in The Pleasant Gap series, When You Look at Me, arrives in October and her contribution to Barbour’s wonderful My Heart Belongs series hits the shelves in January 2019 with My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge. Her books are seasoned with her Appalachian heritage and love for family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.
You can get to know Pepper on her website, http://www.pepperdbasham.com, on Facebook, Instagram, or over at her group blog, The Writer’s Alley.
MY REVIEWI don’t think I’ve read a single Pepper Basham book (and I’ve read almost all of them) that hasn’t just got me in the “feelz.” Not only is Hope Between the Pages no exception, but it takes the “feelz” to a whole ‘nother level! I mean a story about stories? Come on! AND a dual timeline!!! Don’t get much better than that!
Ms. Basham’s Appalachian story-telling heritage and her passion for all things British shines on every page, mingling in a heart-warming and heart-wrenching tale.
I adored both Clara and Sadie—and of course, share their passion for books and reading. I appreciated their dedication to their duties. Their
The author’s understanding of human nature gives her characters a sense of depth and authenticity, stirring empathy in the reader. The twists between generations, the threat over Clara’s head—the utterly swoonable romance! Page after page this story holds the reader, lingering, even, after the final adieu.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Hope Between the Pages, Pepper BashamBLOGWORDS – Monday 29 March 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – SAILING IN STYLE by DANA MENTINK
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – SAILING IN STYLE by DANA MENTINK
THE BLURB
Piper Brindle has spent her entire adult life trying to live down the stigma of her family’s checkered history. The one bright spot was Cy Franco, the talented California designer with the surfer-boy looks. She ended up only breaking his heart. Now an acting gig on the historic River King reunites her with the guy she pushed away. She knows she doesn’t deserve him, but how can she pretend she’s immune to Cy’s charms? As her past explodes into her present, Piper knows they can never have a future together. But with their irresistible chemistry drawing them even closer than before, how will she be able to walk away a second time?
Dana Mentink is a national and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author. She’s written more than forty mystery and suspense novels for Love Inspired Suspense, Harvest House, and Poisoned Pen Press. She is honored to have received two ACFW Carol Awards, a Holt Medallion Award, and a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award. Please visit her on the web at or find her on Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest. Dana hosts monthly contests and giveaways via her Dana Mentink’s Reader Group at
MY REVIEW
What a comedy of calamities! How can so many things go wrong in the span of a few days?
But sometimes God throws things our way (or allows things to happen) to nudge us back on the path He has set for us. Ms. Mentink has sure done that with Piper and Cy!!
As both an Interior Designer (by degree) and an actor (by passion) this story was doubly fun for me.
Piper’s enthusiasm for her craft was contagious. Her fear of relationship, though, was beyond aggravating! (Even though I get her reasons.)
Cy—love the names in this story—trying with all his might to untangle his heart from Piper’s.
And the Belles!! What a hoot they were! I knew early on, though, that Flo wasn’t who she seemed. But I didn’t expect the answer to be what it was! Touché, Ms. Mentink. Touché!
I fell deeper and deeper into this story with every page, waiting to see who [SPOILER] and hoping it wasn’t [SPOILER.]
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
This book was given to me as a gift. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reactions to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Monday, #TRD, Book Review, Sailing in Style, Dana Mentink, A Love by Design Book, Return to Pelican Inn
March 18, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 16 March 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – SALKEHATCHIE SECRET by C. HOPE CLARK
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – SALKEHATCHIE SECRET by C. HOPE CLARK
THE BLURB
A dead federal agent and Lowcountry secrets stir up a hornet’s nest. . .
A Carolina Slade and Callie Morgan crossover!
(A stand-alone mystery)
Carolina Slade’s long awaited engagement is put on hold as Senior Special Agent Wayne Largo leads the manhunt for his missing partner—a naïve fresh recruit, who may have jumped the gun on an investigation from Slade’s case load. When the agent is found dead next door to the jurisdiction of friend and Edisto Beach Police Chief Callie Morgan, Slade calls in a favor to add support for Wayne’s investigation. Soon the two women are hip-deep in the secrets, black water swampland, and farms of the Salkehatchie region.
And anyone attempting to uncover those secrets gambles with their life.
Hope Clark thrives on mystery and writes from Lake Murray and Edisto Beach in her beloved South Carolina, alongside her federal agent husband she met on a bribery investigation. Bourbon in hand, water on the horizon, she spins tales of serious, hard-nosed female sleuths.
Hope also motivates writers to step up to their careers and is founder of FundsforWriters.com , awarded 101 Best Websites for Writers by Writer’s Digest Magazine each year for over a decade. Her weekly publications reach 35,000+ readers.
Visit her at:
www.chopeclark.com
www.bookbub.com/authors/c-hope-clark
MY REVIEW
I’ve already come to know and love Police Chief Callie Morgan. In Salkehatchie Secret I’m getting to know Carolina Slade. I love the friendship the two have developed—and I love the two series crossover.
This story, though! Seriously, y’all!!
Newbie Jasmine rubbed me wrong—too sure of herself and cocky. Honestly, I began to wonder if she was investigating or involved…
St. Clair Simmons was a piece of work, and like Jasmine, I couldn’t decide how much he was guilty of…
There’s a regular line-up of suspects and red herrings, and besides the one [SPOILER] that I figured out (and I wasn’t sure so sure of that) identifying the killer—indeed, determining if it was actually murder—was a nearly impossible task.
This reader may have developed a small reader-crush on Special Agent Wayne Largo. His attention to and patience with Slade is hard to come by. And his proposal was heart melting. That the two of them worked the case together threw some serious hurdles in their investigative path, and put their relationship in the hot seat.
And Slade. I admire her determination and dedication, to her job and to the people in her life. I met her briefly in Dying on Edisto, when she first met Callie. I like the way she works and look forward to catching up on all the books in the Carolina Slade series.
Ms. Clark tugs and pulls at her characters, bringing out (beating) both the worst and best in them. She has twisted this story with every page all the way to the totally unexpected ending!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Salkehatchie Secret, C. Hope Clark, The Carolina Slade Mysteries
Robin's Book Shelf
- Robin E. Mason's profile
- 81 followers
