Book Spotlight -All I Want For Christmas by Fay Lamb on Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: All I Want for Christmas

Author: Fay Lamb

Genre: Christian Fiction

Release date: November 21, 2021

A wedding headed for disaster,

A crime syndicate bent on destruction,

And a bunch of hungry alligators.

Knee deep in preparation for her best friend’s Christmas wedding, Abigail Brewster reels when her estranged younger sister returns to Mullet Harbor. She brings secrets, intrigue, and trouble along with her—a crime syndicate set on goals that would destroy the harbor. And Abigail is in the middle of their scheme.

Remy Arneaux doesn’t understand the reason for Susan Brewster’s return, and maybe that’s due to the brain fog from his concussion. But he does know enough not to trust her and not to let her near Abigail. The self-centered woman would only hurt her . . . again. Abigail has had enough pain, even from him. Still, he made a promise to escort someone else to the wedding. And with the promise is a secret that begins to rip his relationship with Abigail apart.

According to Mayor Herb’s edict, nothing is allowed to mar this occasion for his only granddaughter. Not heartbreak, not tirades from a spoiled young woman, and not threats from organized crime.

But what about their attempts to make good on their threats . . .

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Fay Lamb is the only daughter of a rebel genius father and a hard-working, tow-the-line mom. She is not only a fifth-generation Floridian, she has lived her life in Titusville, where her grandmother was born in 1899.

Since an early age, storytelling has been Fay’s greatest desire. She seeks to create memorable characters that touch her readers’ hearts. She says of her writing, “If I can’t laugh or cry at the words written on the pages of my manuscript, the story is not ready for the reader.” Fay writes in various genres, including romance, romantic suspense, and contemporary fiction.

More from Fay

Writing is supposed to be fun, right? Well, for a while, writing was the last thing I wanted to do. And when you have two series contracted and many other books waiting in line to be written, that’s a big problem.

I’m sure that I’m not the only person on the face of this earth who recently placed fun in a jar and hid it away for at least a week, maybe a month, maybe even a year. Heck, some of us may have fun still hidden away.

I truly thought I’d lost my sense of humor. And then I sat down to be purposeful in my writing. Abigail tiptoed onto the page (literally), and then the quirky denizens of Mullet Harbor worked their magic and the story unfolded before me. Abigail and her hero, Remy, may have had some difficulties in life, but for me, I had the time of my life.

When I finished writing All I Want for Christmas, I sat back and I marveled that I had not lost that sense of humor, especially not in my writing. I recalled that in all my writing life, when things were bleakest, my writing brought a smile, and I have always wanted it to bring a smile to others.

Mission accomplished. Humor has been removed from the hiding place and firmly installed back into the funny bone, and my prayer is that the readers will allow Mullet Harbor to bring a little humor—and suspense—to their lives.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 22

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 23 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, October 23

Texas Book-aholic, October 24

Inklings and notions, October 25

deb’s Book Review, October 26

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 27

By the Book, October 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 29

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 31

For Him and My Family, November 1

Vicky Sluiter, November 2 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, November 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Fay is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of All I Want for Christmas!!

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/2224e/all-i-want-for-christmas-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Celebrate Lit Tour-Dog Days of Summer by Kathleen Y’Barbo with Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Dog Days of Summer

Author: Kathleen Y’Barbo

Genre: Christian/Mystery/Romance Fiction

Release date: October, 2022

Trina Potter, Nashville country music star, buys a ranch near her hometown in Brenham, Texas, to help her niece open a rescue facility for dogs. Her presence in town stirs up some old high school rivalries—and romance. Finding property to buy is a challenge, convincing her mother to move there with her is daunting, and navigating a string of strange accidents is perplexing. Sometimes Trina feels like she’s purchased her own three ring circus instead of a beautiful piece of land. But her first priority will be figuring out who wants Second Chance Ranch shut down before they even have the grand opening.

Click here to get your copy!

Kathleen Y’Barbo hooks you from the start in this second installment of “Gone to the Dogs Mysteries” and won’t let go until you finish. Dog Days of Summer truly showcases Y’Barbo’s humor, which I really like! Simply wait till you read about Mama Peach’s antics and the incredible antics of her cat Hector. The book works as a cozy mystery as well, since you are continuously attempting to figure out “whodunit.”

Since I am blatantly pro-Texas and lived there for a significant amount of time, the fact that the novel is set in the little Texas town of Brenham immediately caught my attention. The story’s animal rescue theme piqued my interest because some of my children were involved in animal rescues. (At one point, we had several fish and tadpoles, two cats, eight dogs, and an anole lizard. We also had a mouse and a hamster shortly before that! We had 14 dogs one time, too!) Along with all the odd occurrences in the story, two dogs by the names of Patsy and Cline keep everyone on their toes.

I enjoyed catching up with other acquaintances from the series’ first book, Off the Chain. If you haven’t read the first book, don’t let that stop you from reading Dog Days of Summer as it works well as a standalone.

I received a review copy of this book from Celebrate Lit through NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

About the Author

Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee and bestselling author of more than one hundred books with over two million copies of her books in print in the US and abroad. A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she is a member of the Texas Bar Association Paralegal Division, Texas A&M Association of Former Students and the Texas A&M Women Former Students (Aggie Women), Texas Historical Society, Novelists Inc., and American Christian Fiction Writers. She would also be a member of the Daughters of the American Republic, Daughters of the Republic of Texas and a few others if she would just remember to fill out the paperwork that Great Aunt Mary Beth has sent her more than once.

When she’s not spinning modern day tales about her wacky Southern relatives, Kathleen inserts an ancestor or two into her historical and mystery novels as well. Recent book releases include bestselling The Pirate Bride set in 1700s New Orleans and Galveston, its sequel The Alamo Bride set in 1836 Texas, which feature a few well-placed folks from history and a family tale of adventure on the high seas and on the coast of Texas. She also writes (mostly) relative-free cozy mystery novels for Guideposts Books.

Kathleen and her hero in combat boots husband have their own surprise love story that unfolded on social media a few years back. They make their home just north of Houston, Texas and are the parents and in-laws of a blended family of Texans, Okies, and one very adorable Londoner.

More from Kathleen

Do you love dogs…or cats…or both…? I’m firmly in the “both” category. Since childhood I’ve always lived in homes that had at least one or the other, usually several of each. With every dog or cat comes at least one good story. One of my favorites is the tale of Bandit, the inspiration for the cover of my cozy mystery DOG DAYS OF SUMMER.

Once upon a time there was a black and white dog named Bandit. He was an English Springer Spaniel by birth but was completely convinced he was human. Bandit loved his people—three growing boys and a baby girl—even more than he loved popcorn and playing keep away (his version of catch). After many years, Bandit’s people grew up and he grew old. Toward the end of his very long and pampered life, he was plagued by the unwanted and yet much appreciated friendship of an ornery orange striped cat named Baby and a snooty pedigreed feline named Fifi.

Everyone loved Bandit…except the territorial squirrel who lived in a tree in our back yard in Southeast Texas. From the moment Bandit joined the family, the furry fellow was determined to rid himself and his back yard of the trespassing canine. The squirrel’s favorite tactic was to tease Bandit until the dog chased him up a tree. Once treed, the crafty critter would run around the trunk just out of Bandit’s reach. Once the squirrel tired of this, it would retreat to a limb. There, the battle of the backyard beasts would commence again but with the squirrel lobbing pinecones and the dog trying to catch them.

While every good story has a beginning, middle and end, unfortunately at the end of this one there was no winner in the dog vs. squirrel wars. A job transfer led us to Houston where squirrels were in abundance in our new neighborhood but none of them were nearly as much fun as the one Bandit left behind. The last time I spoke with the owners of our old house, they told the funniest story: they loved their new home, but there was this squirrel in the back yard that kept throwing pinecones at everyone.

In DOG DAYS OF SUMMER, I tell the story of another Texas back yard. This one is located in Brenham, Texas, and it is about to become a very special place for some very special dogs named Patsy and Cline. Have I mentioned these dogs belong to a country singer named Trina who has a mother named Mama Peach who happens to own a cat named Hector that dislikes almost everyone and can open doors? Then there’s the problem of the next door neighbor and his penchant to forget to close the lid on his grill when he’s cooking? Did I mention that Patsy and Cline enjoy nothing more than whatever they happen to find on an unguarded grill? While the two furry scoundrels are rounding up trouble next door, there is even more trouble happening at the building site for Second Chance Ranch Dog Rescue on the other side of the property. Apparently not everyone is happy about the new neighbors. The mystery is who that person might be. While you’ve got to read DOG DAYS OF SUMMER to find out, I can give you one hint: it’s not the squirrel!

I’ve told you mine; now tell me your favorite dog or cat story. I can’t wait to read them.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 28

Texas Book-aholic, October 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 29

Blogging With Carol, October 29

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 30 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, October 30

Inklings and notions, October 31

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 1

Lily’s Book Reviews, November 1

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 2

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 3

Remembrancy, November 3

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 4

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 6

Boondock Ramblings, November 6

Labor Not in Vain, November 7

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, November 7

Pause for Tales, November 8

Mary Hake, November 8

For Him and My Family, November 9

Divine Perspective, November 9

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, November 10

The Book Club Network, November 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a print copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/2244a/dog-days-of-summer-celebration-tour-giveaway

#NetGalley #DogDaysofSummer #CelebrateLit

Grace Immeasurable (Shadows Over Whitman-Book 3) by Gina Holder

Publisher’s Summary

She’s a modern day damsel. He’s her self-appointed knight. Who will rescue whom?

Kylie just wants to run her café without people thinking she’s a damsel-in-distress. That proves difficult when a man claiming to be her half-brother reveals buried family trauma and forces Kylie to face the scars of her childhood.

Peter doesn’t mean to be a knight in shining armor, but as her proverbial big brother, he decides to uncover the truth about Kylie’s semi-sibling, while trying to make peace with his own mistakes.
Unearthing the past leads to a danger greater than either ever expected. In the end, who will rescue whom?

The first book of Gina Holder’s three “Shadows Over Whitman” series that I read was Grace Immeasurable (Book 3). However, it functions well as a stand-alone.

The primary character is Kylie Phillips. She is barely eighteen and possesses the paradoxical duality and juxtaposition of being both incredibly mature and having the downright foolishness of a child, which naturally causes the reader to have numerous moments of both admiration and annoyance or frustration with her. Due to her trusting and kind nature, which is similar to that of a young child, Kylie often finds herself in risky circumstances. Each time she’s betrayed, my heart broke for her.

Peter Brunner is Kylie’s best friend and self-proclaimed protector, placing him in a precarious position since Kylie resents his sometimes over protective qualities.

Beginning with brief glimpses into Kylie’s life, Grace Immeasurable offers an early indication of what is to come. The heart-wrenching insights and revelations give perspective to her proclivities and temperament.

The story keeps you guessing from beginning to end with unexpected complexity and fluctuations. The transformations and maturation of the characters was gratifying and encouraging.

I appreciated the faith elements along with the theme of forgiveness, and the unique way one character gave his testimony.

I’m eager to read the remaining two volumes in the series. I know I’m going to be in for a real treat if they are even half as good as Grace Immeasurable!

I received a complimentary advance review copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

The Matchmakers of Holly Circle by Chautona Havig with Giveaway on Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: The Matchmakers of Holly Circle

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Christian / Romance / Christmas

Release date: November 21, 2014

They’ve been in love for ten years, but it takes an interfering neighbor with a penchant for poker to unravel the mystery of their persistent platonic relationship.

Flirtation can be an art, or so they say. Well, if so, Ruth and Richard are “the old masters” of the flirting game. Despite their strictly platonic relationship, there’s “something there,” as so many of their friends and families say. Neighbors and friends for ten years, neither seems willing to change the course of their relationship.

Three doors down, at the end of the cul-de-sac, Mason Dickenson has watched his favorite neighbors with an interested eye, but he’s finally had it with the dance. So, with a pack of cards and a few tricks up his sleeve, he’s determined to get them out of the “friend rut” and into romance.

Thanks to Mason’s unique matchmaking scheme, Ruth and Richard concoct one of their own—a deeper, stronger, eternal love and relationship that nothing on earth can match.

Click here to get your copy!

Mason Dickenson is without a doubt my favorite character in Chautona Havig’s The Matchmakers of Holly Hill. His love for those he cares about, his wish for others to be happy, his mad poker skills, his matchmaking… I could go on, but I think you get the point—he’s a sweet 90-year-old Holly Circle neighbor. I would love to have a story written just about him, featuring his romantic side.

Richard and Ruth’s non-romantic, seemingly platonic relationship, which they hide behind in their ten-year friendship, is the main focus of Havig’s novel. I enjoyed getting to know them better. However, I felt that the angst, lack of communication and drama spoiled the first part of the story for me, though it was pretty much made up for by the second 1/2 to 2/3’s.

Mystery, friendship, forgiveness and love are all present in this Christmas tale, which helps to make a sweet Christmas story.

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. However, my review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling author of 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

Download a free short story that happens 10 years before the book begins?

When This Life Denies You Coffee, Wait 10 Years

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, October 14

She Lives To Read, October 15

Holly’s Book Corner, October 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 16

Texas Book-aholic, October 17

deb’s Book Review, October 18

Pause for Tales, October 18

Lots of Helpers, October 19

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 20

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 22

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 23

Cover Lover Book Review, October 23

Blogging With Carol, October 24

Simple Harvest Reads, October 25 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, October 26

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 26

Splashes of Joy, October 27

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/2200a/the-matchmakers-of-holly-circle-celebration-tour-giveaway

Slashed Canvas by Liz Tolsma with a Giveaway On Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Slashed Canvas

Author: Liz Tolsma

Genre: Christian Historical Mystery, Fairytale

Release date: February 1, 2022

Held prisoner by all she’s lost, Katarina’s about to lose all she has.

Grand Duchess Katarina Volstova barely escaped the Russian revolution, arriving in Paris just before the birth of her twin daughters. With her heart still captive in her homeland, she haunts the Louvre each day, spending hours gazing at one painting, lost in her pain.

Not the man he once was, Timothy Smythe never returned home to England after the Great War. Instead, he hides himself away doing maintenance in the Louvre and watching the beautiful woman whose pain seems riveted on one painting.

When Katarina returns home to find her daughters and their nanny missing, the loss opens her eyes to all she has to lose now.

Frantic to find her girls, her distress causes Timothy to offer his assistance. Together they put together clues to a puzzle they must complete before the kidnapper ensures Katarina and her daughters are never reunited.

Slashed Canvas offers a retelling of The Lost Princess that mingles self-centered grief, spoiled little girls, and proof that nothing will stop a mother from saving her children.

Click here to get your copy!

Slashed Canvas, by Liz Tolsma, is a one-of-a-kind and distinctive reiteration of The Lost Princess. It’s also the eighth installment of the “Ever After Mysteries.” It may, however, easily be read as a stand-alone novel.

After the death of her husband in the Russian revolution and just before the birth of her twins, Grand Duchess Katarina Volstova fled to Paris, France. She never felt at ease among the strangers and does very little to try and fit in. However, she goes to the Louvre daily, spending many hours in quiet reflection.

Every day, Georges Velvey, a disabled military veteran, works at the Louvre and sees Katarina there every day. Naturally, his curiosity is piqued when it comes to this lovely and mysterious woman.

From the start, the plot is engrossing and intriguing. The story is interesting, but for some reason I can’t quite put my finger on, it didn’t quite click with me. This is the only Tolsma story I’ve read that wasn’t part of an historical or romance anthology.  Nonetheless, if I had been more interested in murder mysteries and intrigue, I would have appreciated and enjoyed the tale more. Don’t let my reservations stop you from reading Slashed Canvas. I believe I went into the novel expecting one thing and receiving another, which is entirely my mistake and not the author’s.

Slashed Canvas is an absorbing book to spend an afternoon or evening perusing.

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. However, my review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.

About the Author

Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a US Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. Please visit her website at http://www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.

More from Liz

How Slashed Canvas Came to Be

It was the last evening of the SoCal Christian Writer’s Conference three years ago. A group of us decided that frozen yogurt sounded good, so we walked the few blocks from the university where the conference was being held to the local fro-yo shop.

On the way back, I was walking alongside fellow author Chautona Havig. We were chatting about various projects we had underway, and she mentioned that she and Sandy Barela from Celebrate Lit had come up with an idea for a boxed set. This involved taking a fairy-tale and turning it into a 1920s mystery. Would I be interested?

You don’t have to ask me twice if I’d like to be in a set with Chautona that’s put out by Sandy. Before I knew what was happening, I was agreeing to it. Then we got talking about what fairy tales I might use. As soon as she said The Lost Princess, an idea sparked in my brain. It really was that instant. 1920s. Princess. Russia. Exile.

This might come as a surprise to both Chautona and Sandy, but I really didn’t know the story of The Lost Princess. Not at all. When I was working up the idea, I had to read the story and figure out how to make my idea mesh with the fairy tale. Thankfully, the story did work well with what I intended to do with Slashed Canvas.

And that title? Well, that was quite difficult. At the time, my niece was staying with us and interning for me. One night, we sat and ran through idea after idea until we came up with “Something” Canvas. I wanted a strong adjective and we offered and rejected many until we came up with Slashed Canvas. I hadn’t written a word of the book, but I managed to work a slashed canvas into the story.

And what about the painting in Slashed Canvas? I knew I wanted it to be by a Russian artist and hang in the Louvre, but there weren’t (and aren’t) many paintings like that in the Louvre. Russia has been loath to allow any of its art to leave the country. So what was I going to do? I really was going crazy.

Then I spoke on the phone to Kristy Cambron. Not only is she a fabulous author, but she also has a degree in art history. It was her idea to make up my own painting. That way, I could make it work however I needed it to for the story. What a relief. I did just that, and the story flowed from there.

And the clues to the mystery? Those were my dad’s ideas. I won’t say more because I don’t want to spoil anything!

So that’s how Slashed Canvas came to be. It was the work of so many different people. Authors, much as we hide behind our computers, never work in a vacuum. Very often, there are many fingers in the pie to make the finished product.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 7

Texas Book-aholic, March 8

For the Love of Literature, March 8

Inklings and notions, March 9

Christian Bookaholic, March 9

For Him and My Family, March 10

Elly Gilbert, March 10

deb’s Book Review, March 11

By the Book, March 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 12

Blossoms and Blessings, March 12

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 13

Paula’s Persuasion, March 13

Connie’s History Classroom, March 14

Genesis 5020, March 14

Babbling Becky L’ s Book Impressions, March 15

Older & Smarter?, March 15

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 16 (Spotlight)

Blogging With Carol, March 16

Simple Harvest Reads, March 16 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 17

Maureen’s Musings, March 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 18

Connect in Fiction, March 18

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 19 (Author Interview)

Back Porch Reads, March 19

Mary Hake, March 19

Through the Fire Blogs, March 20

The Book Club Network, March 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Liz is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/1b4c3/slashed-canvas-celebration-tour-giveaway

https://www.celebratelit.com/

The Debutante’s Code by Erica Vetsch

Publisher Summary

Jane Austen meets Sherlock Holmes in this new Regency mystery series. Newly returned from finishing school, Lady Juliette Thorndike is ready to debut in London society. Due to her years away, she hasn’t spent much time with her parents, and sees them only as the flighty, dilettante couple the other nobles love. But when they disappear, she discovers she never really knew them at all. They’ve been living double lives as government spies–and they’re only the latest in a long history of espionage that is the family’s legacy. Now Lady Juliette is determined to continue their work. Mentored by her uncle, she plunges into the dangerous world of spies. From the glittering ballrooms of London to the fox hunts, regattas, and soirees of country high society, she must chase down hidden clues, solve the mysterious code her parents left behind, and stay out of danger. All the while, she has to keep her endeavors a secret from her best friend and her suitors–not to mention the nosy, irritatingly handsome Bow Street runner, who suspects her of a daring theft. Can Lady Juliette outwit her enemies and complete her parents’ last mission? Best-selling author Erica Vetsch is back with a rollicking, exciting new series destined to be a hit with Regency readers who enjoy a touch of mystery in their love stories. Fans of Julie Klassen, Sarah Ladd, and Anne Perry will love the wit, action, and romance.

My Review

Erica Vetsch’s The Debutante’s Code is everything one has come to expect from her books. The characters are well-developed, the plot is well-written and the historical details are accurate and factual.

The Debutante’s Code begins with problems for Lady Juliette Thorndike, first in her attempts to return home, and subsequently, when her parents are unable to assist her with her social debut due to their extended absence. Left puzzled and a little angry, she attempts to make the best of a sad and startling situation.

Daniel Swann, from the Bow Street Magistrate’s Office, notices Lady Juliette instantly at her first ball. Due to her ensuing appearance at each occasions when suspicious circumstances are discovered, he begins to wonder if she is indeed who she claims to be.

The mystery and intrigue drew me in quickly. Vetsch does a wonderful job of describing and developing Lady Juliette, who needed to grow up quickly, as an endearingly strong but vulnerable person, learning a new phase of life against all odds.

The novel maintains tension throughout, with numerous developments and twists to explain and enhance the plot.

The sequels to The Debutante’s Code promise to be as enjoyable as the novel itself.

I received a review copy of this book from Kregel Publications. All opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

To Disguise the Truth (The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency #3) by Jen Turano

Publisher’s Summary

When a man arrives at the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, anxious to hire them to find a missing heiress, Eunice Holbrooke realizes her past has finally caught up with her . . . and that she may no longer be able to hide under the disguise that has kept her safe for so long.

Arthur Livingston’s goal in life is to make his mark on the world as a mining industrialist, but after the man who could help him achieve his goal is murdered, Arthur feels compelled to seek justice for the family—but he’s left with more questions than answers after the eccentric Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency refuses to take on his case.

Desperate to conceal her real identity and avoid the irritatingly handsome Arthur, Eunice takes on a different case that requires her to go deep undercover and entangles her in one troublesome situation after another. When other secrets come to light, Eunice has no choice but to confront her past, hopeful that it will set her free but knowing it could very well place her life—and the lives of those she loves—in jeopardy. 

Jen Turano has outdone herself again! Another of her books has captured my heart.

Turano has penned yet one more delightfully charming mystery and suspense novel that will keep you on tenterhooks through the majority of the plot. The novel captures your attention from the very first sentence and does not let go until the very last page.

To Disguise the Truth is book three of “The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency” series. (However, you could read it as a standalone.) You would, however, miss out on the genius that is Jen Turano, which, in my opinion, would be a tragedy.

The female prime mover in this iteration, Eunice Holbrooke, is droll, sharp and extremely entertaining. 

Her nemesis, Arthur Livingston, is the perfect foil for her. They are both knowledgeable enough to keep each other on their toes. In addition, their pointed and quick-witted comebacks made for a delightful read.

I enjoyed getting to know Eunice’s back-story as she’s always been an enigmatic, inexplicably mysterious person with a lot to discover. Turano clarified Eunice’s history in an adroit way, thus satisfactorily answering all my questions.

I received an advanced review copy of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House.  All opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

Silencing the Siren by Denise L. Barela on Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Silencing the Siren

Author: Denise L. Barela

Genre: Christian Historical Mystery, Fairytale

Release date: January 4, 2022

Andrew Grayson thought he had everything… until he met her.

The indulged son of wealthy parents, Andrew has always gotten whatever he wanted almost before he knew he wanted it—clothes, gadgets… even a car! What more could a young man desire?

Enter Annabel Thompson. Freakshow mermaid extraordinaire… in a wheelchair!

Of course, her beauty attracts him. How could it not? Add to that a kind heart, and Andrew can’t help but fall for her.

Annabel’s connection with the freakshow repels his parents and their society friends. They want him to sever all ties with her and his new friends. Oh, and marry the “right” girl with the “right connections.” But he won’t do it. He’ll defy them and marry his little mermaid.

When Annabel turns up missing, declared dead, things don’t add up, Andrew begins asking some difficult questions, the most important being, “What happened to the little mermaid of the Coney Island freak show?”

Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. Silencing the Siren offers a retelling of “The Little Mermaid” that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat as you watch the story unfold.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Denise Barela’s debut novel, Silencing the Siren, is a vibrant reimagining and retelling of the Little Mermaid.

Andrew Grayson and Annabel Thompson, two star-crossed lovers, are introduced in Silencing the Siren. Their relationship is doomed from the start because they come from two extremely different socio-economic classes. Annabel’s family is a troupe of entertainers from the Coney Island freak show, whereas Andrew’s family is from upper-crust society.

Barela has written an interesting story with a tinge of mystery and intrigue. I enjoyed the story, but there was a little too much worry and stress depicted in Andrew’s mind at times, as well as recurring issues. Overall, the plot was fascinating, captivating, and at times completely charming for a debut novel.

Silencing the Siren is a short story, an easy, quick read that is ideal for curling up with your favorite beverage while you while away the time, lost in a different historical era.

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. However, my review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.

Denise Barela’s passion for fiction, her faith, and general creativity define her life. In all things, she strives to glorify God, though especially in and through her writing. She has spent the past six years working for a publicity company and five years working as the head editor for a publishing company. With an MFA in Creative Writing and a Professional Writing certificate, Denise enjoys using her education and work experiences to help authors achieve their own writing dreams. When she’s not working away at her desk, you might find her reading a good book or following Alice down the rabbit hole…

More from Denise

Hello Readers!

I’m so excited to share Silencing the Siren with you! This book was so much fun to write and research. I learned so many fun facts about old cars, old New York, and even doorbells!

Yes, you read that correctly. Doorbells.

These noisy items were such a novelty in the 1920s that they were often given as Christmas gifts!

Crazy, right?

I wanted both Andrew and Annabel to represent that feeling we have all experienced at least once in our lives. That feeling of not belonging. It looks different for each person, but it’s a uniting feeling.

Annabel will never be accepted by those outside her family, but they more than make up for that. Andrew is popular and well-off in society, but as he comes to know the Lord, he starts to feel that rift with his superficial friends and family. It’s with other believers, Annabel’s family, that he finds that deep relationship he desires. They are more than willing to provide.

This is the beauty of the body of Christ. When we are sick or in need, the body of Christ comes together to support you in that time of need and extend Christ’s love to all corners of the globe.

I hope you enjoy reading Silencing the Siren as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 7

A Baker’s Perspective, February 7

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 9

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, February 9 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 10

Genesis 5020, February 10

Inklings and notions, February 11

Connect in Fiction, February 11

For Him and My Family, February 12

Blossoms and Blessings, February 12

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 13

deb’s Book Review, February 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 14

For the Love of Literature, February 14

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 15

Blogging With Carol, February 15

Connie’s History Classroom, February 16

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 17 (Spotlight)

Sodbuster Living, February 17

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 18

Austen’s Angle, February 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 19

Simple Harvest Reads, February 19 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Back Porch Reads, February 20

Through the Fire blogs, February 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Denise is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click here to enter.

Promo

Silencing the Siren by Denise L. Barela

is coming out on January 4! Be sure to preorder yours now to receive a special discounted pre-order price and a special pre-order bonus!
Click here for more information: https://www.celebratelitpublishing.com/posts/book/silencingthesiren/

https://amzn.to/3syaD1V

The Golden Touch by Carole Brown with Giveaway on Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: The Golden Touch

Author: Carole Brown

Genre: Romantic Cozy Mystery

Release date: April 30, 2021

Not again.

Ryle Sadler stared down at the financial statement lying on his desk. His investment firm had just sent him another record of overwhelming success. Time to sell his share in this stock.

Ryle came from the poor side of the tracks, but that had no bearing on his success in life—which he kept hidden from everyone, especially those in Appleton, West Virginia. But when he buys the local, rundown bed and breakfast, mysterious revelations from beneath the site are suddenly threatening to ruin his good standing with the citizens.

Then along comes Jazzi Sanderson. Jazzi has a reputation of being wild, but Ryle sees more than is on the top layer of this woman. Beneath that tough, wild streak lurks a woman who wants to be loved by the right person, a woman who is tender-hearted and who is just finding out that God is real.

Is Ryle and Jazzi’s worlds too far apart or can their differences help them solve the mystery that lies beneath Ryle’s bed and breakfast? Will the evil person behind it all be able to silence them, or can Ryle’s golden touch prevail in this too?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of thirteen, best selling, award-winniing books, she loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. She has found that the traveling and ministering has served her well in writing her novels. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

More from Carole

Discovering the Emotional Touch

When beginning the story of THE GOLDEN TOUCH, Book Five of the Appleton, WV Romantic Mysteries, I needed a KEY factor

Here’s what I knew:

• the protagonists: Jazzi (Jazmine) Sanderson and Ryle Sadler, their careers and/or past, their personalities,
• the basic plot: mystery, suspense and the romance
• the setting
• the first chapter

But I still didn’t have that thing—that emotion or feeling—the characters were searching for…until I, unknowingly hit upon it. What Jazzi and Ryle were both seeking, although unknown to either, was a place that felt like HOME. The place that makes a person feel content, relaxed and at peace, even when trouble is brewing, even when you’re still searching for that one person who makes the world go ’round for you.

Where was it? Appleton, West Virginia. The small town where everyone knew everyone and their business, or at least assumed they knew. Where friends were friends for life, even when that small town held secrets, trouble and problems.

Ryle, who was rich, innovative and smart, living in a big town and traveling across the country for work was happy, or thought he was. But when he chanced upon Appleton, West Virginia, small, friendly, clean and sometimes a nosy place, but where friends were loyal and ready to help in any way they could, Ryle realized he’d found that spot that felt like home. Adding that to solving the mystery and finding love, was the answer his heart had craved, even though he didn’t know it.

As for Jazzi, wild, beautiful young lady that she was, felt unloved by her adopted parents, and flew the coop from Appleton as soon as she was of age. What she didn’t realize, that instead of blaming others for her unhappiness, it was of her own making. It wasn’t until she returned to Appleton, more mature now, accepting of her own mistakes, and finding a meaning for her life, that her heart grasped the one place that could ever feel like home. Appleton.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 6

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 7

Betti Mace, December 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 9

Bigreadersite, December 10

Texas Book-aholic, December 11

Inklings and notions, December 12

For Him and My Family, December 13

Blogging With Carol, December 13

deb’s Book Review, December 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 15

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 16

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 17

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 18 (Spotlight)

Mary Hake, December 18

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, December 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carol is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/1419a/the-golden-touch-celebration-tour-giveaway