Keeping Christmas Volume II by Multiple Authors- Includes Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Keeping Christmas Volume II

Authors: Chautona Havig, Tabitha Bouldin, Susan K. Beatty, Jennifer Sienes, Melissa Wardwell, and Stacy T. Simmons.

Genre: Christian Christmas Romance

Release date: October 18, 2022

In castles far and near, long ago and yesterday, find happily-ever-afters wrapped in love and tied with Christmas joy.

Escape to Greenaway (by Chautona Havig): She just wanted to escape another holly, jolly family holiday. Because snowbound in a castle B&B with one of Santa’s elves (or as good as) is so much better. With the help of the castle’s owner, Tonya plays matchmaker in a bid to get that Christmas-loving girl out of her hair.

The King’s Promise (by Tabitha Bouldin): In a world of airships and kings, a prince makes a promise that tears him away from his love. An ordinary baker’s daughter finds herself caught in the middle of a game where the winner earns the queen’s crown. They both want what they can’t have as they struggle toward a seemingly impossible happily ever after.

A Castle for Christmas (by Susan K. Beatty): Sadie Foster abhors wealth. Will Randolph, on the other hand, works for the uber-wealthy owner of an over-the-top castle on the California coast–Sadie’s father. When Christopher Foster leaves the castle to her, Sadie doesn’t want anything to do with it or his money. But what if Sadie and Will use the castle and her inheritance for the good of others—together?

An Irish Christmas Heart (by Jennifer Sienes): Will she choose love or an arranged marriage? In the midst of post-famine unrest, Eleanor Blake, daughter of an English nobleman, is thrown into a maelstrom of emotions. How will she escape the duty for which she was born and the confines of the ill-fated Menlo Castle of Galway, Ireland to find her true love?

Christmas at Curwood’s Castle (by Melissa Wardwell): A Christmas party at Curwood Castle should have been Angel Davis’ Cinderella moment. Especially when her dear friend Jimmy arrives. Instead, one obstacle after another threatens to break any chance at a happily-ever-after.

Christmas in the Cotswolds (by Stacy T. Simmons): She’s a paleontologist and ardent Jane Austen fan. He’s enmeshed in the exactitude of mathematics, can they find common ground? Do opposites attract, will the romantic castle, and dashing duke be the undoing of Victoria’s plans?

Grab a mug of something hot and delicious and curl up somewhere comfy. Your literary chariots await to take you on a journey from an early twentieth-century castle in the San Gabriel Mountains of California all the way across the pond to the beautiful Cotswolds of England. These six novellas, all set in castles real and fictional, celebrate the heart and joy of Christmas in this second volume of castle Christmas novellas.

Click here to get your copy!

Christmas, castles, different authors and an anthology? What is there to dislike? Sincerely, and to be quite honest, it can be challenging to find the time to read a book during this season, but you just cannot match a collection of fantastic novellas!

Although I didn’t know two of the authors, I adored each and every one of the stories. With their snow, romance and globe-trotting characters, they were ideal for setting the stage for the upcoming Christmas holidays and getting you into the spirit.

If possible, enjoy another collection of Christmas tales around a fire while curled up in your coziest blanket and sipping your favorite hot beverage.

Don’t miss this fantastic compilation of Christmas from around the globe!

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

About the Authors

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.

Jennifer Sienes holds a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in education, but discovered life-experience is the best teacher. She loves Jesus, romance and writing—and puts it altogether in inspirational contemporary fiction. Her daughter’s TBI and brother’s suicide inspired two of her three novels. Although fiction writing is her real love, she’s had several non-fiction pieces published in anthologies including several in Chicken Soup for the Soul. She has two grown children and one very spoiled Maltese. California born and raised, she recently took a step of faith with her real-life hero and relocated to Tennessee.

Tabitha Bouldin is a student at Southern New Hampshire University, where she is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Creative Writing. As a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), she works with critique groups and provides endorsements for other authors. Tabitha’s genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart. Tabitha spent ten years working as a Medical Assistant before God opened the door which allowed her to become a stay-at-home-homeschooling-mom and author.

Melissa Wardwell resides in Owosso, Michigan with her husband and three teen-aged children.She doesn’t mind alternating between the world of writing and the reality of being a mother, but she would rather sit with a good book or a good friend and a cup of coffee. When she isn’t penning works of fiction, she is busy reviewing books for her blog, Back Porch Reads. To see more from Melissa Wardwell, visit www.melissawardwell.com

Who says you can’t begin a new career after middle age? Certainly not Susan K. Beatty. She is passionate about writing about finding courage through faith and grit, particularly through the trials of breast cancer and other life trials. Her daughter is a metastatic breast cancer “thriver” and has been an inspiration for her writing. Susan’s first novel, Faces of Courage, debuted May 2021, as part of the Faces of Courage series, including several novelettes. She is also the author of An Introduction to Home Education (AKA California Homeschool Manual). Susan is a professional writer/journalist and is active in the writer community. She is proof you can begin a fiction writing career at any age.

Stacy T. Simmons writes uplifting fiction that delights the reader’s romantic sensibilities. Thirty-four years of marital bliss is a great contributor. She is a mom of two grown children, and she and her family have a menagerie of pets she likes to call “Noah’s Ark.” You can find her working on her next manuscript with a piece of dark chocolate and a cup of coffee nearby. Connect with Stacy on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and her blog, Fueled by Faith and Caffeine.

More from Tabitha

Castles near and far. Over time and across worlds both real and fictional. When it came time to write for Keeping Christmas, the world opened up to offer each of us a jewel for our stories. While I chose to base my castle off of a real castle in Romania, others chose a different route. Yet we all came together with a singular mission to write stories about Christmas and to bring the joy of Christ into each and every book. Keeping Christmas is about more than overseeing a holiday. It is looking back through the years of Christmases far and wide, from our real world through fantasy lands some of us dreamed up, and keeping the spirit of the season alive.

Come and keep Christmas with us as we journey across land and sea, through the skies on an airship, and deep into the contemporary halls and towering turrets. Here you’ll meet characters to fall in love with and read stories that span the ages, from a scribe in King Herod’s castle to a paleontologist in the Cotswolds.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 16

Through the Lens of Scripture, November 17

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, November 18

By the Book, November 18

Inklings and notions, November 19

deb’s Book Review, November 20

Blogging With Carol, November 20

Texas Book-aholic, November 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 22

For Him and My Family, November 22

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 23

Older & Smarter?, November 24

Mary Hake, November 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 25

She Lives To Read, November 26

Holly’s Book Corner, November 26

Simple Harvest Reads, November 27 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Splashes of Joy, November 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 28

Writing From the Heart Land, November 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, the Celebrate Lit Authors are 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 the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/22acd/keeping-christmas-volume-two-by-celebration-tour-giveaway

http://celebrate-lit-publicity-group/

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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

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

Spotlight on Jeanette’s Gift by Blossom Turner on Tour with Celebrate Lit-Includes Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Jeanette’s Gift

Author: Blossom Turner

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: October 11, 2022

This life wasn’t the one she dreamed of, but happily ever afters don’t always come when and how we expect.

At twenty-nine, Jeanette Williams has watched each one of her four sisters marry and start families of their own. It’s hard not to believe God has forgotten the desires of her heart, especially when most people refer to her as Spinster Williams. Without the beautiful children she teaches, life would be unbearably lonely.

When the handsome widower, Theo Wallace, and his six children move into the Shenandoah Valley, every available woman is atwitter—except for Jeanette. She has no such aspirations that someone as plain as her could draw even a smattering of interest.

As life throws this unlikely couple together, Jeanette can’t help but fall in love with Theo’s children and their soul-wrenching plight. Before she knows it, her heart is far more invested than she could’ve ever imagined. And not just with the children, but with their handsome father as well. Is she headed for another heartbreak, or is it possible God had a beautiful plan in the works all along?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Blossom Turner is a freelance writer published in Chicken Soup and Kernels of Hope anthologies, former newspaper columnist on health and fitness, an avid blogger and published novelist of the Word Guild semi-finalist Anna’s Secret. However, she has found her home in the writing of historical fiction. The power of love and romance is authentically woven into the Shenandoah Bride Series about five sisters and their love stories. She and her husband, David, have two grown children and live in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. Read more at blossomturner.com.

More from Blossom

Do You Enjoy Romance That Keeps You Thinking Days Later?

Long before I knew I could write, I loved to read. Being a hopeless romantic I gravitated to all romance stories either contemporary or historical. I soon realized that finding clean fiction but still written with the passion God created us to experience, was hard to find. (Song of Solomon is a good example of the expression of passion and love between a man and woman without being explicit.)

Given the gift of a writing career later in life one thing was for sure…I wanted to write what I like to read. Clean romance does not need to be boring. As each story pours out, I realize that writing historical fiction is my passion. I finally know what I was born to do. The Shenandoah Brides is a series of five sisters and their five love stories. Oct. 11, 2022 is launch day for the final book in the series called Jeanette’s Gift.

Each book has a redeeming theme. Katherine’s Arrangement, set in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, post-civil war, speaks on how to love the way 1 Corinthians encourages, even when marriage (Katherine’s is an arranged marriage) has proven to be very disappointing. The second book Amelia’s Heartsong, situated in Richmond, Virginia illustrates how love transcends the pomp and circumstance of class and money and encourages us to view others the way God does. The third book, Lucinda’s Defender unfolds back in the valley, and speaks of how our greatest mistake does not have to define our future. A message on second chances encourages the soul. The fourth book, Gracie’s Surrender once again set in Richmond, speaks of a life dedicated to the ministry of God helping the underprivileged orphans. Gracie learns that God can upset even our best intentions with a better plan.

However, the message for this fifth book, Jeanette’s Gift, is a subject so near and dear to my heart. Growing up in an environment that tore me down instead of build me up, proved to be invaluable in writing on this subject. The theme of this book—healing from low self-worth—is a topic that many will relate to.

Jeanette suffers from low self-worth and believes God has forgotten her. A very valuable process unfolds with truth and techniques that work today. Jeanette learns to accept that how life unfolds is up to the sovereignty of God, and He can be trusted. She also breathes in the truth of how she is, indeed, fearfully and wonderfully made.

My prayer is that as Jeanette grows toward healing in the story, that any reader suffering in this same way will embrace the steps on how to break this vicious cycle. I know from first-hand experience healing is possible, and I long to get that message out there.

Although this book can easily be read as a stand-alone, enjoying the whole series as the family saga unfolds will deepen the experience.

I sincerely hope you enjoy the read as much as I enjoyed the write. I love to hear from my readers. Contact me at http://blossomturner.com

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 11

Vicky Sluiter, October 11

Texas Book-aholic, October 12

Inklings and notions, October 13

deb’s Book Review, October 14

Blogging With Carol, October 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 15

lakesidelivingsite, October 16

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 16

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 17

Simple Harvest Reads, October 17 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Connie’s History Classroom, October 18

For Him and My Family, October 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 19

Mary Hake, October 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 20

Splashes of Joy, October 21

Pause for Tales, October 22

Holly’s Book Corner, October 22

Christina’s Corner, October 23

“To Every” BOOK “There is a Season”, October 23

Bizwings Blog, October 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Blossom is giving away the grand prize of a $50 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/21e09/jeanette-s-gift-celebration-tour-giveaway

https://www.celebratelit.com/

Lakeside Retreat by Marci Seither includes Giveaway-on Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Lakside Retreat

Author: Marci Seither

Genre: Devotional gift book

Release date: July 5, 2022

Close your eyes for a moment. Inhale. Can you smell the pine trees? Now listen. Can you hear the loon’s call echo off the water and the geese honking as they fly overhead? Now imagine tasting the smoke-tainted marshmallows straight out of the campfire. Think about feeling the warm summer sun on your skin and the cool breeze against your face.

Lakeside Retreat is an invitation to surround yourself with the majesty of God’s creation and wrap yourself in the warm blanket of Scripture’s wonderful, eternal truths.

Let this collection of vacation-themed devotions, recipes, and DIY projects transport you to a quiet place of rest, renewal, and connection with God.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Marci Seither’s writing career began after her humor article about a cookie baking fiasco she experienced with her kids was published in a small-town newspaper. Since then she has authored two books and hundreds of articles for local papers as well as written for Guideposts, Light & Life, and Focus On The Family.

Besides writing, she enjoys teaching workshops, speaking, food photography, canning, and anything that involves using real butter.

Her biggest joy, besides being married to John and raising six kiddos, is being grandma to six of the cutest kids in the western hemisphere. She recently moved from CA to TN.

More from Marci

I don’t know about you, but there is something about being at a cabin, on a lake, or in the woods. The pine scented air is crisp; the water is refreshing, and lingering over a hot cup of coffee as the sun comes up over the tree tops causes one to just sit in AWE at God’s fingerprints in creation.

Growing up, some of my favorite memories were made camping with cousins and hanging onto an inner tube that was tied to the back of a ski boat, now, just listening the loon’s call echoing off the rippling water at sunset is something I savor, well, that and a perfectly toasted marshmallow for my  s’more.

This book was so fun for me to write. I spent two weeks at the cabin with one of my best friends, Ginger Vennerstrom and her two granddaughters. Our husbands were able to join us for the second week and that was when we went on our crazy kayak adventure. We baked yummy treats, took nature walks through the woods, sat around the campfire, and did a lot of swimming.

One of the highlights was to take the pontoon boat down to the point and see the eagle’s nest with the half grown eaglets squawking from the edge, hoping one of their parents would bring a freshly caught fish.

I loved learning about the area that had once been a logging camp and hear stories about the cabin that is lovingly named Swan Stuga and the people who made it special.

Besides the 40 devotions, there are journal prompts and 12 tutorials for things you can do with your family such as make a pinecone bird feeder, follow a recipe for the perfect berry cobbler, and how to experience the night sky in a way you might have never considered.

Most of the photos, including the picture on the cover, are ones that I took at the cabin so readers will not just read about the lake; they will feel like they have actually been at the restful shores of Lake Nebagamon.

The cabin is calling…

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, September 6

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 8

Inklings and notions, September 9

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, September 9

She Lives To Read, September 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 11

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 12

Lily’s Book Reviews, September 12

deb’s Book Review, September 13

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 15

Mary Hake, September 15

Blossoms and Blessings, September 16

Cats in the Cradle Blog, September 17

The Adventures of a Travers Wife, September 18

Livin’ Lit, September 19

To Everything There Is A Season, September 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marci is giving away the grand prize package of a canvas tote bag filled with Lakeside goodies that include a blanket, mug, signed copy of Lakeside Retreat, and a solar lantern for your next outdoor adventure!!

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/21374/lakeside-retreat-celebration-tour-giveaway

Rusty Goes to Water World (The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine) by Joe Fisher on Tour with iRead Book Tours Includes Giveaway

Join Us for This Book Series Tour:  Aug 22 to Sep 9, 2022

Book Series Details:

Book Series Title: The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine by Joe Fisher
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 4-8)
Genre:  Children’s Fiction
Publisher:  Angler Publishing
Release date:   May 2017,  August 2021
Content Rating:  G for children.

Books in the Series:

Today’s Highlight: Rusty Goes to Water World

The town of Someport-by-the-Sea wanted to honor Rusty, the Fire Engine, but nowhere seemed appropriate. As the townspeople searched for just the right location to remember Rusty, one location and then another was repeatedly abandoned in the quest to find the perfect place. As time goes on, it seems like nothing will be found as the seasons changed and all they did was talk about it!

Joe Fisher’s Rusty Goes to Water World is a charming sequel to Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine . It was exciting to experience Rusty’s new journey and adventures.

My two-year-old granddaughter enjoyed following the townspeople as they searched for a fitting place to honor Rusty. When they appeared to give up, she became sad. She also enjoyed when the class visited Water World and wished she could visit somewhere similar to it. She empathized with every aspect of the tale, but I won’t provide any spoilers.

For this narrative, Jaye Boswell also produced the drawings. The images are bright, vivid and colorful. They are cute and aptly portray the children’s adventures at Water World as well as their adventures in the quest to locate a place to name in Rusty’s honor.

The story seems more appropriate for an older age group, in my opinion, than ages 4-8. Young children will, however, delight in the images and the adventures.

The last page of the book outlines all the rides and attractions at Water World. In addition, there is a QR code to find out more about Water World.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from iRead Book Tours. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

Book Details:

Book Title: Rusty Goes to Water World (The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine) by Joe Fisher
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 4-8), 36 pages
Genre:  Children’s Fiction
Publisher:  Angler Publishing
Release date:   August 2021
Content Rating:  G for children.  

Book Description:

The townspeople of Someport-by-the-Sea want to honor Rusty for saving them during the “Summer Like No Other” so the Mayor Himself decides a park should be named in Rusty’s honor. But, finding the right place is not as easy as it sounds. Then when students at Sea Stone Elementary take Rusty on their end of year celebration at Water World things don’t go as planned.

​Just as Mr. Spritz the Manager of Water World is about to close the park because of an equipment failure, Rusty, with the help of Fireman Jim and Mike the Deputy Fire Chief, once again saves the day and in the process finds a new home in a water park that bears his name.

 BUY THE BOOK:
Joe Fisher Books
Amazon ~ iBook

Meet the Author:

After successful careers in market research and public health consulting, Joe
now writes fulltime from his home base in Sanibel Island, Florida.
Like his career, his writing is wide ranging from academic books to works for the trade including:

• Killer Among Us: Public Reactions to Serial Murder,  
• The Next Breath: New Life After Near Death 
• His work has earned praise from Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, The Library Journal, The Miami Herald and the New England Journal of Medicine among others.

Recently, Joe jumped to the world of children’s picture books with the series The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine:

• Book 1 – Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine
• Book 2 – Rusty Goes to Water World

A third book in the series, Rusty and Calliope, is in development.
In addition, a fourth children’s book, Ospreys in the Outfield: A Sanibel Story will be available in the fall 2022.

connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ goodreads

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Tour Schedule:

Aug 22 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Aug 22 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 22 – Faith and Books – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 23 – Book Zone Reviews – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 23 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 24 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 24 – icefairy’s Treasure Chest – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 25 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 25 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 26 – Writer with Wanderlust – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Aug 26 – icefairy’s Treasure Chest – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 29 – Captive Dreams Window – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Aug 29 – Sandra’s Book Club – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Aug 29 – Faith and Books – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 30 – Lisa’s Reading – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 31 – Paws.Read.Repeat – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Aug 31 – Book Zone Reviews – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 31 – Sandra’s Book Club – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 1 – Library Lady’s Kid Lit – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Sep 1 – Splashes of Joy – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Sep 1 – Captive Dreams Window – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 2 – Reading is My Passion – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Sep 2 – Library Lady’s Kid Lit – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 2 – Writer with Wanderlust – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 5 – Cover Lover Book Review – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Sep 6 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Sep 6 – Bound 4 Escape – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Sep 6 – Lisa’s Reading – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 7 – Pause for Tales – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Sep 7 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 7 = Paws.Read.Repeat – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 8 – Pause for Tales – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 8 – Reading is My Passion – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 8 – Splashes of Joy – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 9 – Cover Lover Book Review – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 9 – Bound 4 Escape – book review of RUSTY GOES TO THE WATER WORLD / giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE Book Tour Giveaway

ENTER ABOVE TO WIN A

$25 STARBUCKS GIFT CARD
courtesy of the author of
THE ADVENTURES OF RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE
(2 winners

https://www.ireadbooktours.com/

 #iReadBookTours #books #authors #giveaway

iRead Book Tour: Saving the Seas for the Purple and Green by Nancy Carlisle with Giveaway

 

Join Us for This Tour from Aug 15 to Sep 2, 2022

 
Book Details:

Book Title:  Saving the Seas for the Purple and Green: A Story of Cleaning Up the Ocean by Nancy Carlisle
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  34 pages
Genre:  Juvenile fiction/science & nature/environment
Publisher:  Sage Green Press
Release date:   March, 2022
Content Rating:  G. There is nothing even close to PG or R in this book, it is totally G

 

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“Saving the Seas for the Purple and Green gives children the hope of making a difference. Washed Ashore is honored to have our work highlighted.” — Angela Hazeltine Pozzi, Founder of Washed Ashore

 

“A simple, relevant, and informative read that gives kids a positive
outlook on what can be done to reduce our impact on the ocean.” — Taylor Lane, Creator of the Cigarette Surfboard

 

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Book Description:

A young girl loves the tide pools that she sees on her runs by the ocean, but one day notices garbage amongst the colorful creatures she finds there. Along the beach she meets conservationists cleaning up the beach who educate her about the dangers that trash pose to ocean life. She decides to help also.

Buy the Book:
Amazon
add to goodreads

 

 

 

In Nancy Carlisle’s Saving the Seas for the Purple and Green, we meet Violet, a young woman whose favorite colors are purple and green. The seas she adores are full of these hues. Violet enjoys running, especially near the ocean. We observe the same things she does as she runs, including the lovely anemones, starfish and harmful unsightly trash.

The structure of the book is dual. The narrative relates Violet’s experiences, while on almost every page, Carlisle provides details about marine life, the effects of plastic on the ocean, recycling and the urgency of preserving our ecosystem.

As a plus, Nancy Carlisle is the illustrator, too. Her drawings are beautiful and ingenious, drawing you into the story, beginning with the cover’s delightfully wonderful coloring.

In addition to asking many questions about plastics and how they harm the poor turtles and sea jellies, my two-year-old granddaughter made running comments about the drawings. She thoroughly enjoyed the story. The book’s target audience is 3-7-year-olds, but the sidebars, by contrast, seemed to be aimed at older youngsters, broadening its appeal.

Carlisle calls attention to a much-needed conversation about how we can protect our oceans in a clear-cut, comprehensive and understandable approach that incorporates a variety of resources.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from iRead Book Tours. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

Meet the Author:

Nancy Carlisle is an author and illustrator who writes hopeful books for kids that interweave facts and fiction about the environment and global responsibility. During her 38-year career as a sustainable architect and researcher, her focus was on the environment. She led work nationally
and internationally on sustainable and energy efficient buildings and communities and won awards for collaboratively designing award-winning sustainable buildings, a laboratory campus, and improving the energy efficiency of U.S. laboratories. Since retiring, Nancy has worked as a volunteer teaching English as a Second Language and mentors first generation college students. She is a strong advocate against plastic waste not only because it pollutes our oceans and water but also because it contributes CO2 to our atmosphere.

 

​Nancy enjoys the outdoors and international travel. She is a member of the Society of Children’s
Book Writers and Illustrators and the Society of Environmental Journalists. She studies botanical illustrating and French language.

connect with the author: website

Tour Schedule:

Aug 15 – Character Madness and Musings – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Aug 15 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
Aug 16 – Bound 4 Escape – book review / giveaway
Aug 17 – Booking.with.janelle – book review / author interview
Aug 17 – Sandra’s Book Club – book review / giveaway
Aug 18 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review / giveaway
Aug 18 – She Just Loves Books – book review / giveaway
Aug 19 – Splashes of Joy – book review / giveaway
Aug 19 – Hall Ways Blog – book review / giveaway
Aug 22 – Library Lady’s Kid Lit – book review / author interview / giveaway
Aug 23 – Reading is My Passion – book review / giveaway
Aug 23 – My Reading Getaway – book review / author interview / giveaway
Aug 24 – FUONLYKNEW – book review / giveaway
​Aug 24 – Triquetra Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
Aug 25 – Paws.Read.Repeat – book review / giveaway
Aug 26 – Pause for Tales – book review / giveaway
Aug 26 – Writer with Wanderlust – book review / guest post / giveaway
Aug 29 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review / giveaway
Aug 30 – Kam’s Place – book review
Aug 30 – Captive Dreams Window – book review / giveaway
Aug 30 – fundinmental – book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 31 – Deborah-Zenha Adams – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Sep 1 – Pick a Good Book – book review / author interview / giveaway
​Sep 1 – Literary Flits – book spotlight / giveaway
Sep 2 – The Phantom Paragrapher – book review / giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

SAVING THE SEAS Book Tour Giveaway

Enter above to Win a Signed Copy of
SAVING THE SEAS FOR THE PURPLE AND GREEN
Plus $25 Amazon Gift Card
(one winner/USA only)

 #iReadBookTours #books  #authors  #giveaway Enter #giveaway to win! 

The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine by Joe Fisher on Tour with iRead Book Tours Includes Giveaway

Join Us for This Book Series Tour:  Aug 22 to Sep 9, 2022

 

Book Series Details:

Book Series Title: The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine by Joe Fisher, Rusty Goes to Water World by Joe Fisher
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 4-8)
Genre:  Children’s Fiction
Publisher:  Angler Publishing
Release date:   May 2017,  August 2021
Content Rating:  G for children.

Books in the Series:

Today’s Highlight The Adventures of Rusty The Forgotten Fire Engine

My Review

The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine is a charmingly sweet story. Rusty was once known as “Reddy, the ready Fire Engine.” But one day, Reddy was no longer so red. In fact, he was quite rusty! From then on he was mocked and teased for being old and no longer useful.

The story of Rusty helps teach children that usefulness is not lost and does not disappear because of being “old and out of shape,” as it were.

The illustrations by Jaye Boswell are bright, whimsical and appealing, adding plenty of engagement for youngsters.

My two-year-old granddaughter enjoyed the story immensely. The winsome prose drew her immediately into the story. The adorable illustrations led to many questions and exclamations. We broke the story into two nighttime adventures because she was so enthralled with it!

The target market is ages 4-8, however, I think both younger and older children will enjoy the story, too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from iRead Book Tours. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

Book Details:

Book Title: Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine (The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine) by Joe Fisher
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 4-8), 32 pages
Genre:  Children’s Fiction
Publisher:  Angler Publishing
Release date: May 2017
Content Rating:  G for children 

Book Description:

When the Mayor Himself decides the town of Someport-by-the-Sea needs a new

fire engine the Fire Chief picks a shiny, bright red one that has all the latest tools needed to put out fires. The new fire engine becomes the joy of the children in town and the pride of the fireman and townspeople alike.

But after many years the fire engine becomes old and worn until everyone begins to laugh and call it Rusty. Sad and forlorn Rusty is ignored and forgotten. Then during the 4th of July parade in a summer like no other Rusty saves the day in a most surprising and unusual way.

Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine tells the story of a fire engine and the fireman and boy who love him. It is a lighthearted and multi-layered story, richly told, that will appeal to children and adults alike.

Whimsical illustrations create an air of fantasy, drawing children into Rusty’s world while stimulating their imaginations as they follow Rusty’s journey from hero to outcast and back again.

​The surprise ending brings the tale to a heart-warming and satisfying conclusion that reveals all things
have hidden value that is waiting to be released. Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine is a classic story of love, loss, transformation and redemption.

 BUY THE BOOK:
Joe Fisher Books
Amazon
iBook ~ KOBO
add to goodreads

Meet the Author:

After successful careers in market research and public health consulting, Joe now writes fulltime from his home base in Sanibel Island, Florida.
Like his career, his writing is wide ranging from academic books to works for the trade including:

• Killer Among Us: Public Reactions to Serial Murder,  
• The Next Breath: New Life After Near Death 
• His work has earned praise from Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, The Library Journal, The Miami Herald and the New England Journal of Medicine among others.

Recently, Joe jumped to the world of children’s picture books with the series The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine:

• Book 1 – Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine
• Book 2 – Rusty Goes to Water World

A third book in the series, Rusty and Calliope, is in development.
In addition, a fourth children’s book, Ospreys in the Outfield: A Sanibel Story will be available in the fall 2022.

connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ goodreads

Q&A with Joe Fisher

What kind of research did you do for this book, if any? 

This is a better question directed to my illustrator partner Jaye Boswell. I don’t do any research per se just let my imagination run wild. Jaye on the other hand has to take real things like a fire engine or calliope and make it come to life. So she samples pictures and representations on the internet and then translates the machines and people into her own whimsical style. As a person whose art talent ended with stick figures I admire how she creates characters from anthropomorphized machines and quirky human figures. I’ve told a story but Jaye creates a demimonde.

Do you travel to schools doing book readings of Rusty?

Yes Jaye and I welcome opportunities to go to schools and libraries, wherever children congregate, to read our books. But practically we can only go to schools that are in a reasonable distance. So we have created several ways we can reach out to schools and libraries at a distance. First we put the books into a PowerPoint format so a teacher can read the book to their students. We also send a free book when we send a teacher or school the PowerPoint Presentation so they have all the materials to do the reading and use it over and over again. As a follow on to that we are working on a zoom option where Jaye and I can do remote readings.

Let add it is our policy to send free books to children’s hospitals. For more about school readings and hospital book gifts, please see JoeFisherBooks.com

Any merchandise coming out soon? A plush fire-engine perhaps? Or kids water bottle with Rusty coming soon?

Not yet but we have given it some thought. Our feeling is that the Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine provide a good platform for toys such as the machines, Rusty Calliope, Snowplow, etc, the people like Fireman Jim, the Mayor Himself, Mr. Spritz the manager of Rusty’s Water World and the environment like Water World with all its rides and attractions. Please contact me through JoeFisherBooks.com if any of your audience is interested in this idea.

Do you have other projects you are working on?

Of course my illustrator partner Jaye Boswell and I are working on the next book in the Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine, Rusty and Calliope.

In addition, I have another illustrated children’s book coming out this fall, titled Ospreys in the Outfield: A Sanibel Story. This time I partnered with a gifted young wildlife illustrator May Jernigan.

The book tells the story of two Ospreys, Ophelia and Oliver, who want nothing more than to find a quiet place to build a nest and raise a family. After some false starts they think they have found a perfect spot, in the lights that surround the ball field next to Sanibel School. Perfect until Little League season opens and disturbs their tranquil place. What happens next proves it takes a village and the Golden Rule to play baseball when there are Ospreys in the Outfield.

For more information about this and other books please check JoeFisherBooks.com

When you are not writing, what other hats do you wear? What do you do for fun?

I am an inveterate traveler so much of my non-writing time is spent planning and arranging my next trip. Many of these expeditions can take on a life of their own – trekking in the Himalayas, hiking in remote and inhospitable areas of the Congo or scuba diving in the Solomon Islands.

For fun, I collect things, like butterflies or seashells and I am addicted to ebay auctions.

Tour Schedule:

 

Aug 22 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway

Aug 22 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 22 – Faith and Books – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 23 – Book Zone Reviews – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 23 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 24 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 24 – icefairy’s Treasure Chest – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 25 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 25 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 26 – Writer with Wanderlust – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Aug 26 – icefairy’s Treasure Chest – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 29 – Captive Dreams Window – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Aug 29 – Sandra’s Book Club – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Aug 29 – Faith and Books – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 30 – Lisa’s Reading – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Aug 31 – Paws.Read.Repeat – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Aug 31 – Book Zone Reviews – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Aug 31 – Sandra’s Book Club – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 1 – Library Lady’s Kid Lit – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Sep 1 – Splashes of Joy – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Sep 1 – Captive Dreams Window – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 2 – Reading is My Passion – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Sep 2 – Library Lady’s Kid Lit – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 2 – Writer with Wanderlust – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 5 – Cover Lover Book Review – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / author interview / giveaway
Sep 6 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / guest post / giveaway
Sep 6 – Bound 4 Escape – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Sep 6 – Lisa’s Reading – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 7 – Pause for Tales – book review of RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE / giveaway
Sep 7 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 7 = Paws.Read.Repeat – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 8 – Pause for Tales – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 8 – Reading is My Passion – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 8 – Splashes of Joy – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 9 – Cover Lover Book Review – book review of RUSTY GOES TO WATER WORLD / giveaway
Sep 9 – Bound 4 Escape – book review of RUSTY GOES TO THE WATER WORLD / giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

RUSTY THE FORGOTTEN FIRE ENGINE Book Tour Giveaway

 #iReadBookTours #books #authors #giveaway #childrensbooks #kidsbooks #picturebook 

Spotlight on Hunter’s Rose by Carole Brown on Tour with Celebrate Lit-Includes Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Hunter’s Rose

Editor: Carole Brown

Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense

Release date: August, 2022

It’s the late 1800s, and Hunter Carson has married the woman of his dreams and settled on the land he bought. He’s never known God or even much about him. But his tender heart can be touched. His wife—the beautiful and exotic Mexican Rosita DeSantis, is totally in love with him—but something is wrong. Just days after their marriage, why is she crying and touchy? Has she fallen out of love with him already? Or is there something far more serious going on with her?

Rosita’s past is haunting her emotionally. She adores her new husband, but she’ll do anything to keep him from knowing what happened in Mexico before she fled the country. And not because she doesn’t trust him, but she’s worried for his life. Her loving family in Mexico came to accept God into their lives through the ministry of a missionary. But can she hold onto her beliefs through the trials and tests she’ll face when Carlos De Leon insists on forcing her to marry him?

After all, the Mexican Lord—Carlos De Leon—cares nothing for God or any man. His only desire is to obtain what he wants and when. He has a plan and will do anything to accomplish it.

And Rosita will do anything to keep him from succeeding.

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 full-length, best selling and award winning books (with a novella in an anthology), 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

Characters that Walk Off the Page

One of my favorite things when writing a new book, is to create the characters. When I wrote the first book in this series, there were quite a few comments about Hunter and Maria, the cook. Readers wanted to read a book about Hunter—Hunter’s personal story. It was a nice affirmation because I’d already decided that the second book would be about Hunter, his love life and the trouble that created the tension in the book.

Hunter is a fun character. With his father murdered while Hunter was just a child, he very well could have been abandoned to fate. Only another young person’s intervention saved Hunter. He grew up to be a man that was both strong and trustworthy. He’s a bit quick-on-the-trigger (as the saying goes) but he’s also smart, loyal, not a bit stuck on himself, and overwhelmed that a beautiful Mexican girl like Rosita DeSantis could fall in love with him. He has the determination to protect her and the ability to give her pretty much anything she wants—without seeming pompous.

Rosita came from a rich, loving family who adored her, and as an only child was entitled to the family inheritance. Having to abandon that life, she was determined to pursue a different life style even when enduring hardship and fear. Nevertheless, she is a sweet, friendly and a loyal friend to those around her. She knows her own mind, yet is not pushy or obnoxious in her efforts, whether it be love or in scorning the man who insists he wants her back. Rosita is both smart and a real lady.

Carlos De Leon, the villain, on the other hand, is one of those persons who has everything: money, prestige, excellent features and education. Yet he lacks the character to realize that it’s not always possible to have everything you desire. Determined to have what he wants and when, he is not afraid to sacrifice the people who he deems is hindering his quest.

And then, there are the secondary characters: those who support and somehow create interest, not only in themselves but in keeping a reader’s interest in how and when the main characters will respond to them.

Could it be the downright good-looking Jackson, who is quiet and withdrawn, has a story? His support of Hunter, the tell-tell signs of his education, and the absence of any real knowledge of his past encourage the reader to imagine who he really is.

Then there’s Gabrielle Autumn Mayfair, a quiet, rather shy girl who is more of a follower than a leader—until it comes to a man who catches her attention. Her friends worry that she may get hurt, but Gabrielle is more persistent than either of her best friends realize. This blondish-redhead has an endurance that may prove favorable—or it might end in a tragic heartache.

Sully, Old Peete, Nicolas, Susie and Maria—characters that flavor the reading and add some laughter, tension and mixed feelings about their possible hindrance or helpfulness.

Characters—one of the best and most fun parts of a book. I hope you readers will get to know the characters in Hunter’s Rose and love (or hate) them as much as I did when creating the story.

Blog Stops

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, August 20 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 20

Texas Book-aholic, August 21

Inklings and notions, August 22

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 23

For Him and My Family, August 24

By The Book, August 25 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, August 25

Betti Mace, August 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 27

Connie’s History Classroom, August 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 29

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 30 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 31

Pause for Tales, September 1

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, September 2 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carole 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/20e0e/hunter-s-rose-celebration-tour-giveaway

https://www.celebratelit.com/

Mistletoe Village by Kathleen J. Robison on Tour with Celebrate Lit with Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Mistletoe Village

Author: Kathleen J. Robison

Genre: Holiday Romance

Release date: November 30, 2021

Two broken women, two defeated children. Can Grace offer what they’re looking for? When the big city holds nothing but painful memories for sisters Rence and Sandy, they pack it up and head out for Grace and the promises it holds.

Promises of a new start. A new job at Grace General for Rence and a place to begin healing. But most of all, a promise to each of the sisters’ hurting children that a real Christmas awaits them in Grace, complete with snow on giant evergreens and lots of Mistletoe Magic.

But despite its Christmas card atmosphere, Grace, Oregon seems to hold a lot of secrets. Who is that giant of a man they encounter in the woods? Why won’t anyone talk about him? What is the hold the past seems to have over the town? Will they be able to break it before history tragically repeats itself? And will Grace be the place where love and forgiveness finally meet?

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My Review

After a nasty divorce, Florence “Rence,” needed to get her daughter, Livy, and herself out of town. Her sister, Sandy, decided she and her son, Josiah, would tag along and help Rence and her daughter move into their new home in Grace, Oregon.

Thus begins Mistletoe Village, by Kathleen J. Robison. The story starts off with a heart-catching scene before moving on to a tale of a fresh start marked with hope, forgiveness, faith and love-with a hint of mystery and intrigue thrown in.

I enjoyed the story and the characters. Rence’s co-workers were just the type people you would like to have working alongside you (with the exception of maybe one or two). The townspeople were all kind and protected their own. And the town, oh, my, I would love to live in such a cozy, idyllic place!

Mistletoe Village is another pleasing tale that makes a wonderful Christmas read.

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

About the Author

Kathleen J. Robison is an Okinawan-American, born in Okinawa, and raised in California, Florida, Mississippi, and Singapore. Her travels and her family are the sources of her inspiration for her books. Kathleen and her Pastor husband have eight adult children. Seven are married, blessing them with eighteen grandchildren and counting. Her ethnically diverse background extends to her family of currently thirty-five personalities which provide many opportunities to share God’s amazing love amidst the challenges of real life.

More from Kathleen

I love Christmas stories, and since becoming an author, I’ve wanted to write one. Mistletoe Village started out as Mistletoe Hermit, but then it wasn’t going in quite the happy direction that I wanted. So Mistletoe Village was born. I wrote this sweet, cozy, slightly suspenseful romance with all the elements that make Christmas … Christmas! But most importantly, it’s always about the faith element, Christ.

The main character Rence Paladin is dear to my heart. She was created with someone extraordinary in mind, and I had that person read the book to see what she thought. When she finished, she turned bright red and answered, even if you hadn’t told me … I knew it was me! However, it’s not her story, but it encompasses her delightful personality, some of her sweet memories of a single-mom, and how she strives to keep her focus on Christ while always serving others.

So let’s go. Let me take you to Mistletoe Village. You’ll find a little of everything that oozes Christmas in the tiny town of Grace. Holiday spirit, decorations, a children’s church pageant, and a Christmas festival. Oh, and I’ll introduce you to little Gus, the feisty family cock-a-poo. But most of all, I hope you, like Rence and Carl, rediscover the joy of Christmas at Mistletoe Village.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 19

Texas Book-aholic, July 20

Genesis 5020, July 21

By the Book, July 22

For Him and My Family, July 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 24

lakesidelivingsite, July 25

Inklings and notions, July 26

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, July 27

deb’s Book Review, July 28

Splashes of Joy, July 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, July 29

An Author’s Take, July 30

Bizwings Blog, July 30

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, July 31

Miriam Jacob, August 1

Spoken from the Heart, August 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and 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/1f7f5/mistletoe-village-celebration-tour-giveaway

https://www.celebratelit.com/