Thursday, October 6, 2022

“A Thousand Lies” by Kathy Cassel BookTourand Giveaway

About the Book

Book: A Thousand Lies

Author: Kathy Cassel

Genre: YA

Release date: June 19, 2022

For talented teen photographer Bailey Collins, small-town life is good if predictable. Great friends. Loving if overly-protective parents. Academic and artistic success. An amazing new boyfriend.

Until a school field trip to a Chicago photography exhibit turns upside-down everything Bailey has believed about her life. Why are the baby pictures missing from her own past exhibited under another child’s name? Who is this elusive artist whose own identity appears as much a mystery as her exhibit? Or the hostile stranger bizarrely claiming to be Bailey’s birth father?

Above all, if everything about Bailey’s life is a lie, who are the people she has always called Mom and Dad? And if they can’t be trusted, how can she trust the loving God in whom they’ve taught her to place her faith? As a mountain of unraveling lies place both Bailey and those she cares about in danger, she sets out on a peril-filled quest to expose the truth. Will uncovering her true identity bring the closure and purpose Bailey seeks—or turn out to be the worst mistake of her life?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kathy Cassel is author of more a dozen fiction and non-fiction titles for preteens and teens, including 2021 Selah Award finalist Freerunner and the iParenting award winner Christian Girls Guide series. Kathy has lived on three different continents with her USAF husband, has eight children, five adopted from Haiti and the United States, and six grandchildren. To better relate to her characters, she enjoys learning their skills such as whitewater rafting, scuba diving, and riding a motorcycle, but draws the line at sky diving.

More from Kathy

A book begins in my head long before the actual writing starts. For A Thousand Lies I had a vague idea in my mind of a girl discovering her parents weren’t her actual birth parents and setting out on a journey to find the truth.

I kicked the idea around in my mind for longer than I’d like to admit before writing A Thousand Lies. I chose three teens for main characters, Bailey, Reese, and Draya, and I chose NYC as the alternative setting because I fell in love with the city after my first visit there a few years ago.

After several drafts, I felt the story was a strong one and ready for publication. But as I lay watching my clock go around one night, a thought hit me. “What if the birthfather didn’t die in prison? What if he’s alive and free and comes after both Bailey and her birthmom?” And that started a rewrite that led to the completed YA novel A Thousand Lies.

I hope that my readers will find both the characters and the plot compelling as they join Bailey’s quest to find out her true identity.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 6

Books, Books, and More Books, October 7

Texas Book-aholic, October 8

The Book Club Network, October 8

Inklings and notions, October 9

deb’s Book Review, October 10

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 12

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 13

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 14

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 15

Blogging With Carol, October 16

For Him and My Family, October 17

SusanLovesBooks, October 18

Book Zone Reviews, October 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathy is giving away the grand prize of a $40 Books-A-Million 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/21e03/a-thousand-lies-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

“Escape From Amsterdam” by Lauralee Bliss BookTour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Escape from Amsterdam

Author: Lauralee Bliss

Genre: Christian Fiction/ Historical / Romance / Intrigue

Release date: September 1, 2022

A University Student Smuggles Children Out of Amsterdam

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.

Helen Smit believed she was called by God to become a teacher. Little does she know that her care for kids will take a drastic turn for survival when the Germans occupy Amsterdam and Jewish children and parents begin to be deported. Now all she can think of is helping all the kids escape before it’s too late.

Erik Misman’s newfound love for Helen is tested when he joins a plot to help move Jewish children to a safe place in the countryside. If danger can foster a closer bond with Helen and save the lives of the little ones, he will do it all. But a German patrol that stumbles upon the farm where they are hiding with three children and a soldier who takes an unexpected interest in Helen, could well destroy their plans for safety and love.

Click here to get your copy!

“Escape From Amsterdam” is touching story of faith and being a hero in a time of war. This story is based on real facts from World War 2 and through the events are tragic the book is inspiring. I am glad that there were heroes in the time of war.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are mine own.

About the Author

Lauralee Blissis a published author of many romance novels and novellas, both historical and contemporary. Lauralee’s prayer is that readers will come away with both an entertaining story and a lesson that speaks to the heart and soul. When not writing, Lauralee can often be found on the trails where the author has logged over 10,000 miles of hiking. She makes her home in the Blue Ridge mountains with her family. Visit Lauraleebliss.com for more information about the author and her adventures.

More from Lauralee Bliss

Oh, the simple beauty of the Netherlands. Windmills. Tulips. Dutch wooden clogs. Beautiful Delftware and delicious speculaas cookies. Quaint villages nestled beside the waters. And here I am, an American that was able to visit this beautiful country on the heels of my husband winning a contest through his work. We had planned to immerse ourselves in Dutch culture, see the sites, and yes, visit places like the Secret Annex of Anne Frank and the town where Corrie ten Boom and The Hiding Place existed. Little did I realize though that this unique trip would become a journey into the heart of a hurting country in World War II. During our time there, we visited the Jewish Quarter in the center of Amsterdam and learned the details of Nazi occupation for many years that eventually caused two-thirds of the Dutch Jewish population to be exterminated. Walking in the place where a theater once stood and Jewish people gathered there to be deported was indescribable. Seeing the Jewish stars embedded in the pavement and noting the name of a man or woman killed at Auschwitz, was heart-wrenching. But through these horrendous details came the strength of courage and heroism. Across the street from the theater, Jewish children were rescued because of the efforts of those who gave everything to see them go into hiding. Thus the book, “Escape from Amsterdam” was born. It honors those that aided and hid Jewish children from the Nazis to avoid deportation. I am grateful for the opportunity to write this story of two common Dutch people, a college student and a grocery store clerk, called to a dangerous mission to save the innocent when the odds were the greatest. It is a timely book that magnifies the strength of courage in adversity and allows us to become better people because of it. I hope you enjoy this journey and as you do, remember those who came before us and allow their acts of courage to encourage you to persevere, no matter what.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 29

The Write Escape, September 29

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 30

Inklings and notions, September 30

deb’s Book Review, October 1

Holly’s Book Corner, October 1

Texas Book-aholic, October 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 3

Mary Hake, October 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 4

Through the Fire Blogs, October 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 5

Cover Lover Book Review, October 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 6

Labor Not in Vain, October 6

Connie’s History Classroom, October 7

Betti Mace, October 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 8

Remembrancy, October 8

For Him and My Family, October 9

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 9

lakesidelivingsite, October 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10

Splashes of Joy, October 11

Lights in a Dark World, October 11

Blossoms and Blessings, October 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lauralee is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-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/2224b/escape-from-amsterdam-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

“The Amish Matchmaker” by Amy Lillard

In this uplifting new inspirational romance series, award-winning authorAmy Lillard unites a “Widows’ Club” of women who share solace, friendship, faith—and mouthwatering Whoopie Pies—in the Amish community of Paradise Valley, Missouri. Will appeal to fans of Charlotte Hubbard, Molly Jebber, Susan Lantz Simpson, and Kelly Long.

While most women her age are searching for husbands, Astrid Kauffman has chosen a different path--writing romance novels and donating her profits to her beloved Amish community. But when Astrid struggles with writer’s block, she agrees to play matchmaker for Imogene Yoder, a widowed mother of rambunctious twin boys. Perhaps the diversion—and the entrée it gives Astrid to the stories among the Widows’ Club—will spark her creativity . . .

Fortunately, Astrid has just the match for Imogene: a widower she believes is the finest, most handsome man in town. In fact, Astrid realizes he’s perfect . . . for herself! Soon, the plot thickens as Imogene questions what kind of marriage she really wants, and Astrid wonders what kind of matchmaker falls for someone else’s match. But by letting faith guide the way, all involved may discover true love has written a far better next chapter than any of them

About The Author

Amy loves nothing more than a good book. Except for her family...and maybe homemade tacos...and nail polish. But reading and writing are definitely high on the list.

Born and bred in Mississippi, Amy is a transplanted Southern Belle who now lives in Oklahoma with her deputy husband, their genius son, two spoiled cats, and one very lazy beagle. Oh, and don't forget the stray kitty that has taken up residence on her front porch. ^..^

When she's not creating quirky characters and happy endings, she's chauffeuring her prodigy to guitar lessons, orchestra concerts and baseball practice. She has a variety of hobbies, but her favorite is whatever gets her out of housework.

Amy also writes contemporary romances under the pen name Amie Louellen.

An award winning author, Amy is a member of RWA and ACFW. She loves to hear from readers. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, Google+, Twitter, Goodreads, and Pinterest. For links to the various sites, check her website: www.amylillardbooks.com.

I really like Amy Lillard’s books and “The Amish Matchmaker” is no exception. This is a cute romance about a author that is mistakenly thought of a matchmaker and so she agrees to fix up a match and things don’t end up the way they are supposed to or do they. The twin boys are so fun and they keep things lively throughout the story. They also know who they want for their new dad. This is the second book in the series. I really recommend this book, I mean who doesn’t like books about writers and love matches and books that keeps you reading till the end and makes you laugh out loud a few times, like a dinner going wrong because one of the guest of honor is allergic to tomatoes.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and these opinions are my own.

“Jophiel’s Secret” by Johanna Frank BookTour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Jophiel’s Secret

Author: Johanna Frank

Genre: Fiction Fantasy

Release date: December 1, 2022

When the powerful angelic escort, Jophiel, falls to earth and becomes a cherished son, Joppha, but then goes missing, a cosmic battle ensues over the young lad’s mortality. Kingdom Authoritarians conspire to outsmart the Rebel’s vengeful plan to destroy little Joppha and sabotage his eternity. While in small town Havensight, law enforcement clash with Joppha’s family as they scramble to find someone to blame.

Many wills are at play. But all Joppha wants is to go home.

A standalone read, Jophiel’s Secret is part of A Lifeline Fantasy Series by Johanna Frank, where an adopted line of descendants must survive perpetual rebel attacks on their character. The series begins with The Gatekeeper’s Descendants where this new world is introduced and carries on into Jophiel’s Secret with Pipiera, Matthew, Megalos and Kasartha among others coming with.

If you like stories that take place in a world beyond with everlasting connections, you will definitely enjoy Jophiel’s Secret!

Soulful, whimsical, and venturous.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Author of The Gatekeeper’s Descendants and Jophiel’s Secret, Johanna writes fiction fantasy with deeper meanings—creating adventures in the world beyond, where everlasting connections exist alongside good old-fashioned battles of good versus evil.

She and hubby enjoy a life filled with the satisfaction coming from hard work and the love and grace captured from treasured family. The fresh greens and sky blues of Ontario summer months, the just out-of-the-oven aromas at European piazzas, and the tender grips of a grandchild’s hug are at the tip-top of Johanna’s most-loved list.

Her commitment to her readers—stories that are soulful, whimsical, and venturous. Because Johanna feels that even a little bit of heavenly imagination can loosen the chains of life.

More from Johanna

I invite you into a world beyond our understanding—one, I hazard to guess, we inevitably wonder about at least once in our lifetime. What exactly do those who have gone before us face after living out their days on earth? What could their watching over us really look like? Did they actually go through a gate? And ah, which one, we might joke.

I dare not suggest I can answer such questions. But take some theological renderings, a good dose of the whole heaven’s gate scene, bits of philosophical ideology about evil, and add in some lovable supernatural characters—the good versus nasty kind, and then? Well, suddenly there’s plenty of havoc to play out on the lives of unsuspecting earthlings, like us, simply trying to get through life as it comes.

A Lifeline Fantasy Series begins with The Gatekeeper’s Descendants where this new world is introduced and carries on into Jophiel’s Secret with all the main characters coming with, though, I must admit, they’ve matured somewhat between the two novels.

Jophiel’s Secret is written such that it can be read as a stand-alone novel. If you like page turning fantasy, celestial imagination, and a few good tugs at your heartstrings, I encourage you to check it out! And I’d love to hear your views.

Blog Stops

Vicky Sluiter, October 4 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 4

Texas Book-aholic, October 5

deb’s Book Review, October 6

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 7

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 9

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 10

Inklings and notions, October 11

Blossoms and Blessings, October 12 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Book Reviews, October 12

Through the Fire Blogs, October 13 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 14

Rebecca Tews, October 15

Blogging With Carol, October 16

For Him and My Family, October 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Johanna is giving away the grand prize package of a$50 Amazon Gift and a copy of The Gatekeeper’s Descendants and Jophiel’s Secret!!

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/21c39/jophiel-s-secret-celebration-tour-giveaway

Monday, October 3, 2022

“Forgotten Memories” by Penny Zeller BookTour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Forgotten Memories

Author: Penny Zeller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: August 30, 2022

Some memories are best forgotten…

The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile.

Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk?

Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?

Click here to get your copy!

“Forgotten Memories”is a Great “wow” story of forgiveness and faith. This story shows what love can do. I really didn’t want this story to end but I am glad that it ended the way it did. Yes, it was both sad and glorious at the same time. If you want to read a clean love story that doesn’t start out as a love story but as a struggle between the characters then I promise you won’t be disappointed with this book.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

About the Author

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.

Today Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a group fitness instructor. Her desire is to assist and nurture women into a closer relationship with Christ.

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, and camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball.

Penny is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website, www.pennyzeller.com, her blog, www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com, and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks.

More from Penny

The Inspiration Behind Forgotten Memories

I am often asked how I come up with ideas for my books.

Many different things inspire my plots. One inspiration comes from real-life stories. For instance, today our local librarian told me how her family homesteaded in our town in 1881. Of course, I had a million questions. I am also inspired by photographs, people-watching, and sometimes I will hear from readers about a story they’d like to read. I have often joked that I will need to be at least 102 to write down all the stories percolating in my mind.

The idea for Forgotten Memories came from reading about a mail-order bride named Eleanor. Eleanor answered an advertisement from a man named Louis, and after a time of written correspondence, they eventually made plans to marry. During the journey to meet her soon-to-be husband, Eleanor’s stagecoach was robbed. After obeying her request to hand Eleanor her trousseau, the robbers blew up the stagecoach and rode away with their loot.

When the time to be wed arrived, Louis recognized Eleanor immediately. Only later, when Eleanor and Louis were preparing to sign the marriage license, did Eleanor recognize him as the robber due to his voice and a discernable scar. Louis fled and rode off without a word, leaving Eleanor with a broken heart.

After reading Eleanor’s story, my imagination wandered and what-ifs filled my mind. What if something similar happened to a character who, years later, fell in love with a man who robbed her? What would happen when the truth was discovered? Was there any hope for a happily-ever-after?

Thus, Annie and Caleb’s story was born.