"Waiting for Butterflies" by Karen Sargent Book Tour and Give Away

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

Book title: Waiting for Butterflies

Author: Karen Sargent

Release date: April 4, 2017

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction 

When tragedy strikes, Maggie discovers a mother’s love never ends—not even when her life does. Longing for her family after her death, she returns home where she helplessly witnesses her family’s downward spiral in the aftermath of her passing.

Her husband is haunted by past mistakes and struggles to redeem himself. Her teenage daughter silently drowns in her own guilt, secretly believing she is responsible for her mother’s death. Only her five-year-old, full of innocence, can sense her presence.

Although limited by her family’s grief and lack of faith, Maggie is determined to keep a sacred promise and salvage her family before her second chance runs out.

A tender portrait of a mother whose love reaches beyond possible, Waiting for Butterflies will embrace your heart and not let go.

My Review: 

I really loved "Waiting for Butterflies" by Karen Sargent.  It shows that love between a mother and her children never dies even if the mother dies.

 I have read this book twice and the first time it was really hard for me to read, only because I had recently lost two family members right before reading it.  The second time it wasn't as hard because I knew what was going to happen, but any story that deals with death of a loved one is a hard topic to read about but with saying all that I want to say I am glad I read it both times. I am sure this story will be with me for a long time. I encourage every mother and father and daughter and son to read "Waiting for Butterflies" by Karen Sargent, so I guess that means I encourage everyone to read it.

This book deals with love and regrets and forgiveness.  

Maggie and her family members all struggled with guilt after Maggie's death in a car crash. On a side note, this story is also a reminder don't use cell phones while driving. 

I really felt the most sympathy toward Rachel, the teenage daughter, because of her guilt, or what she thought was her guilt, she turned toward the wrong crowd and started self destructive habits to ease the pain. 

Olivia, the 5 year old, is the only one that can see and hear Maggie and try to help the other members understand that Maggie is still with them.

There is also a little danger in a couple of scenes because Sam, Maggie's husband and the girls father, is a police officer.

This book may not be for all Christians because of the idea that a spirit can remain and interact, with those still living, are offensive to some readers , ( I added this sentence because of something that the author wrote on the guest post from the book tour) but I didn't find this book to be offensive at all. This book is fictional and fictional stories has things in the storylines and plots that aren't true. 

All that is left for me to say is Read This Wonderful Book for yourself and I bet you will also be saying like me, I'm glad I read "Waiting for Butterflies" by Karen Sargent.

I'm giving "Waiting for Butterflies" by Karen Sargent five stars, I would give it more if I could.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Celebrated Lit .The opinions expressed are my own. 

About the Author

Karen Sargent creates characters whose imperfect faith collides with real-life conflicts, taking readers on a journey through grace and redemption to discover enduring hope. A romantic element is woven within each story. In addition to writing inspirational novels, she blogs at The MOM Journey…where moms aren’t perfect and that’s perfectly okay. Her writing has been featured in Guidepost’s Angels on Earth magazine and on ForEveryMom.com. When she is not writing, she teaches high school and college English in the beautiful Arcadia Valley where she resides with her husband and two daughters. Visit her at KarenSargentBooks.com.

Guest Post from Karen Sargent

Waiting for Butterflies: The Accidental Controversy

I didn’t intend to write myself into controversy when I wrote Waiting for Butterflies. Yes, it is Christian fiction. Yes, the main character is a “lingering spirit.” And no, ghosts aren’t biblical. Thus the controversy.

As the story idea began to stir my imagination after my mother-in-law’s unexpected death, I wondered how ghosts fit into the Christian view of the afterlife, especially since I too believe our souls go to Heaven once we die. So I asked my pastor. He referred to Hebrews 11, the “Faith Hall of Fame” that lists Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and many spiritual giants who lived by faith. That list is followed by Hebrews 12:1 which states, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses…” My pastor explained witnesses is translated by some to mean spectators. So maybe, maybe, this suggests those who have died can somehow still be present—emphasis on maybe.

But…this gave me just enough permission to play with the idea of a mother’s love being so strong that she could remain after her death until she was certain her family would heal. I was writing fiction after all.

When my manuscript was complete and I began submitting to agents, the response was mixed. Some replied with a simple, “This story isn’t for me.” Some warned, “This will be a hard sell to Christian publishers.” Yet others were more encouraging. Finally my story made it to the desk of an acquisition editor who emailed, “This is the one.” Waiting for Butterflies found a publishing home.

Now that my book is in the hands of readers, most are surprised to hear my topic is controversial. Like me, many believers haven’t really considered ghosts in a biblical context. But a few are adamant that the storyline contradicts their beliefs.

I know my story—just like every story—will not appeal to everyone. But I certainly didn’t set out to offend my fellow believers, and I sincerely apologize if anyone finds it offensive. However, I appreciate this perspective one skeptical reader shared in her review:

“While I was initially put off by the idea that a spirit can remain and interact, in a sense, with those still living, the author handled it with sensitivity and grace. We all have ideas about the unknown, but it is just that, unknown, and I could relate strongly to the thought of wanting to continue to influence and connect with loved ones after death in order to help them.”

I appreciate that in spite of the controversy, this reader gave Waiting for Butterflies a chance—and five stars.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 21

Avid Reader Book Reviews, September 21

Blogging With Carol, September 22

The Power of Words, September 22

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, September 23

Carpe Diem, September 23

A Baker’s Perspective, September 24

Christian Bookaholic, September 24

Reading Is My SuperPower, September 25

Smiling Book Reviews, September 25

Bigreadersite, September 26

Artistic Nobody, September 27

The Fizzy Pop Collection, September 28

Pause for Tales, September 29

Remebrancy, September 30

Janices book reviews, October 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 1

Margaret Kazmierczak, October 2

Reader’s cozy corner, October 2

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 3

A Readers Brain, October 3

His Grace is Sufficient, October 4

Cafinated Reads, October 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away a grand prize that includes a few of Karen’s favorite things – one of which is a Hobby Lobby gift card!!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/bef1

" To Gain a Mommy" by Tanya Eavenson Book Tour and GiveAway

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

Click to purchase

Name of book: To Gain a Mommy

Author: Tanya Eavenson

Genre: Christian Romance

Release Date: December 10, 2016

They had a plan, but will it work?

Thirteen years ago, pediatrician Hope Michaels was the fool-hearted girl who came home from college to learn the man she loved was engaged to her twin. But now to move on with her life and accept a proposal of marriage, she must confront the one man who holds the key to the wounds of her past.Fire Captain Carl McGuire can put out any flame, except for the one Hope sparks within him. As she stirs up his life and heart, Carl knows some things never change. Even a past he’d rather keep hidden.

When a new neighbor moves in across the street who would be a perfect fit for their family, Mary and Brody form a plan to bring their dad and Hope together. But how will it work if Hope keeps pushing him away?

My Review:

"To Gain a Mommy" by Tanya Eavenson is a sweet story about betrayal and second chances and forgiveness. 

I really enjoyed reading this story even though the story had a character with cancer.  This character wasn't the focus point so it  didn't really bother me, because I know the character was fictional not real  ( yes, I know , all too real that cancer is real ). There is one part in the story that made me cry because Hope is talking to God and telling Him she is afraid that she will lose her mom soon ( I know what that feels like too).  I know this story could really happen and probably has somewhere and sometime because people aren't perfect.  This novel is a clean romance.  

Who doesn't like a story where children play matchmaker for their dad?  Grandma even gets into the matchmaking.   Maybe, I liked the story too because the main male character's name is Carl and that isn't a name that is in a lot of books and it also happens to be my husband's name. 

This story has a few surprises that had me saying " I could see that happening ". 

"To Gain a Mommy" by Tanya Eavenson is a novella that makes this reader believe that love can overcome all and second chances are possible.  

I am looking forward to reading the other novellas in the "Gaining Love "Series.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own. 

About the Author

Tanya Eavenson is a bestselling and an award-winning inspirational romance author. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three children. Her favorite pastime is grabbing a cup of coffee, eating chocolate, and reading a good book.

Guest Post from Tanya Eavenson

I’d like to thank Celebrate Lit for featuring my first novella in my Gaining Love Series, To Gain a Mommy, for this tour. I’m looking forward to visiting with you along the way!

Recently I was asked to share what inspired me to write To Gain a Mommy. Believe it or not, my inspiration came from a prayer.

Last year my employer offered me a great promotion, but the catch was I’d have little time to spend with my family. So I prayed, asking God for direction for my family, my job, and my writing.

God knows us so well. He knew I had a desire to work with other authors and to write my first novella. He also knew that without a push, I wouldn’t do it.

It all began with a simple post on my Facebook timeline. Another writer posted that she had messaged me but wanted to let me know since FB has a couple of message boxes (I had no idea!). I clicked on my messages, and there it was—the extra message box, filled. As I read through the messages, I found one asking if I’d be interested in joining a novella boxed set. Right away I knew God had answered my prayer.

Needless to say, I didn’t take the position at work and joined the boxed set. Since then, To Gain a Mommy has become an international bestseller and has been a finalist in two contests. My Gaining Love series continues to grow, with the third novella, To Gain a Bodyguard, releasing in time for Christmas. Isn’t God good!

The Lord tells us to trust in Him and that if we do, He will direct our paths. It still amazes me how the Lord works behind the scenes in our lives to give us hope and a future.

Yes, God gives us hope. He gives us a future. This is why I named my heroine in To Gain a Mommy Hope. Romans 5:5 says, “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (NKJV). Although my heroine can’t see her future or what it might hold, she is reminded that God will not disappoint.

The Lord reminds us of the same in our own lives.

Blog Stops

September 19: Blogging With Carol 

September 20: autism mom

September 21: Avid Reader Book Reviews

September 22: A Greater Yes

September 23: A Baker’s Perspective

September 24: Christian Bookaholic

September 25: Karen Sue Hadley

September 26: Singing Librarian Books

September 27: His Grace is Sufficient

September 28: Remebrancy

September 29: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

September 30: Reading Is My SuperPower (interview)

October 1: Bibliophile Reviews

October 2: Quiet Quilter

Giveaway

In honor of her tour, Tanya is giving away a grand prize package consisting of a $5 Amazon Card and pillow cover from Redbubble! Click the link below to enter! https://promosimple.com/ps/c141

"Under Fire" by Linda Shenton Matchett Book Tour and GiveAway

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

Click to Purchase

Book title: Under Fire

Author: Linda Shenton Matchett

Release date: July 25, 2017

Genre: Mystery

Journalist Ruth Brown’s sister Jane is pronounced dead after a boating accident in April 1942. Because Jane’s body is missing, Ruth is convinced her sister is still alive. During her investigation, Ruth becomes suspicious about Jane’s job. Eventually Ruth follows clues to war-torn London. By the time she uncovers the truth about Jane’s disappearance, she has stumbled on black marketers, resistance fighters and the IRA – all of whom may want her dead.

My Review:  

" Under Fire"  by  Linda Shenton Matchett grabbed my attention from the first sentence  "Ruth Brown swiped the perspiration beads off her upper lip as  her sister's vacant coffin dropped into the ground with a dull thud. ", until the last three words  "What Next indeed? " 

"Under Fire" is a Who, What and Why clean mystery.  Ruth is a journalist, during World War 2, determined to find her sister or to find the real story of what really happened to her.  Her search leads to danger and even to England under the guise to report about how World War 2 affects people living there.  

"Under Fire"  is written very well and filled with characters that are easily understood and easy to either like or dislike.  The ending has a surprise that I really didn't see coming , but all I will say to that is not everyone is what they seem to be.

Ruth doesn't like for her family to remind her to trust in God and is angry with Him, and is surprised to find a gentleman in England that is also a Christian, so does she finally learn to rely on Him and does she learn the truth about Jane, her sister?  I know the answers to these  questions and so many more because I read "Under Fire" and I recommend anyone that likes mysteries to pick up a copy and read it for themselves. 

This book has violence such as guns and a hit and run but nothing too graphic and I would recommend this book for  a mature teen and adults.

I am hoping that the last words of this novel "What Next indeed? " means this book is a start of a series because I would love to read more about Ruth Brown and her journalist journey.

I am giving "Under Fire" by Linda Shenton Matchett  4 stars instead of 5 stars because I think the story should have told more about how Jane was finally found, I won't say if she was found alive or dead because that might be a spoiler alert.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

About the Author

Linda Shenton Matchett is a journalist, blogger, and author. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry, Linda has lived in historical places most of her life. She is a volunteer docent at the Wright Museum of WWII and as a Trustee for the Wolfeboro Public Library. Active in her church Linda serves as treasurer, usher, choir member, and Bible study leader. She is author of several romance novellas and novelettes. Under Fire, the first in her trilogy about amateur sleuth/war correspondent Ruth Brown, has just been released by eLectio Publishing (electiopublishing.com). 

Guest Post from Linda Shenton Matchett

Writers are often asked where they get ideas for their stories. Many authors start with a “what if” scenario (e.g. what if the fate of a world lies in the hands of a young man who must return a ring of great power to its place of origin: The Lord of the Rings). Other authors find inspiration in news articles (Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express). I begin my stories by creating the main character.

As a former Human Resources professional, I am fascinated by the history of women’s employment and enjoy reading about those who trail blazed in industries and positions formerly dominated by men. When I was trying to decide what my protagonist should do for a living, I knew she needed a job that allowed her freedom of movement, but nothing seemed to fit until I saw a museum exhibit about women war correspondents. Of the 1,600 journalists who received government accreditation, only 127 were female.

In order to get a sense of what these women experienced (derision, hostility, sexual harassment, and more) I read their memoirs, autobiographies, diaries, and articles. As an accredited correspondent they were supposed to received meals, transport to the front, and transmission of their articles. Many military officers refused to take the women into combat zones, so they had to get there any way they could, such as Martha Gellhorn who stowed away on a hospital ship and hid in the head to reach Normandy and cover D-day. It is my hope that Under Fire honors these brave and tenacious women in some small way.

Blog Spots

It’s Storytime with Van Daniker, September 14

Blogging With Carol, September 14

Avid Reader Book Reviews September 15

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 16

cherylbbookblog, September 17

Carpe Diem, September 17

A Reader’s Brain, September 18

Bigreadersite, September 18

Blossoms and Blessings, September 19

The Fizzy Pop Collection, September 19

Janices book reviews, September 20

Back Porch Reads, September 20

A Baker’s Perspective, September 21

Just the Write Escape, September 21

Pause for Tales , September 22

Have A Wonderful Day, September 22

Lights in a Dark World , September 23

Connie’s History Classroom , September 23

Karen Sue Hadley, September 24

Vicky Sluiter, September 25

Daysong Reflections , September 25

Mary Hake, September 26

Ashley’s Bookshelf September 26

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, September 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 27

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away a grand prize consisting of:
copy of the book, Box of English Tea, Typewriter notepad, and Rosie the Riveter socks!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c221

Spotlight Tuesday With Jennifer Spredemann and Two GiveAways

Spotlighting Jennifer Spredemann

By the goodness and grace of GOD, Readers' Favorite GOLD & SILVER Medal Book Award Winner J.E.B. Spredemann, Author of the beloved Amish by Accident and Amish Secrets series, was born and raised in California and now resides in beautiful southern Indiana Amish country. Amish by Accident (by J. Spredemann) was first released in November 2012, and the author held a steady spot in Amazon's Top 100 Authors in Religion & Spirituality, topping out at #4.

Joanna's Struggle, in the Amish Girls Series, was the first of several books written by the author*.(see note below) The Amish Girls Series was primarily penned for teen girls, but has been enjoyed by readers of all ages/genders. Lovers of the ever-popular Amish fiction genre are sure to enjoy these books as well, even though they are geared toward a younger audience. The characters in the stories will soon become endeared to your heart, especially the mischievous Jonathan Fisher.

Over 200,000 copies of An Unforgivable Secret, book 1 in the Amish Secrets series, have been downloaded. This book was given a 5-STAR Review Rating by Readers' Favorite, won the SILVER Medal Book Award for 2014, and was nominated in Goodreads' 'BEST of AMISH FICTION' poll. 

Amish by Accident won the Readers' Favorite 2014 GOLD Medal Book Award.

*Note: J.E.B. Spredemann is Jennifer, Emily, and Brandi Spredemann. Together, they have penned the Amish Girls Series books. The other books, although the author name (J.E.B.) was kept, were written SOLELY by J. Spredemann (with God's help, of course.) 

Follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter (@amishjeb)for the most current updates and/or giveaways.

Author can be contacted via email at jebspredemann@gmail.com or at jebspredemann.com. 

We hope and pray that our books will touch your life and be a blessing to you, as they have been to us! TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!

                                                        Interview

Thank you, Debbie, for featuring me on your blog today! 

1. What fictional place would you most like to go?

I’d love to visit West Kootenai, Montana, where Tricia Goyer’s Amish books are set. It’s not necessary a fictional place; West Kootenai does exist. However, much of the area has burned due to wild fires. L According to Amish America, there are currently 5 different Amish communities in Montana.

2. What are some small things that make your day better?

Well, I’m not quite sure if they’re exactly ‘small’ things, but I love when my hubby kisses me goodbye when he leaves for work in the early morning. Another thing is having everyone at the table at suppertime.

3. What’s your favorite genre of book or movie?

My favorite reading genre is definitely Amish fiction, but I do enjoy cowboy romances (whether modern or historical,) contemporary romance, and especially marriage of convenience tropes – all Christian based, of course!

For movies, I’m super thrilled with all of the well-made Christian movies independent studios have introduced. My favorites include titles from the Kendrick Brothers and Christiano Films.

I also enjoy watching clean, sweet Hallmark films.

4. What was the best book or series that you’ve ever read?

The Word of God, the Holy Bible (KJV) is without a doubt the BEST book ever! It has sold more than any other book. It’s the only ‘living’ book. It has changed the lives of countless people. It is the book I read daily. I believe it encompasses all fictional genres combined – historical, romance, mystery, thriller, etc. No other book even comes close.

(As far as fiction goes, I really enjoyed Cindy Woodsmall’s Sisters of the Quilt trilogy.)

5. What do you want your epitaph to be?

This is an interesting question! Okay, let me think… 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3:16-18

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13

Because all that really matters is Jesus!

6. What’s the title of the current chapter of your life?

Busy 

(I currently have 3 books I’m actively writing on, releasing before the end of the year – Lord willing!) 

7. What’s the best / worst thing about being an author?

The best thing is the potential to reach millions (or billions, even) of people with my books. That is an awesome thing to think about and for me, carries great responsibility.

The worst thing about being an author is probably time away from family. With that said, I try to do most of my writing while the family is occupied with other things.

8. What book is overrated?

Umm…do I dare answer this question? Of the books that I have read, I’d probably say ‘Catcher in the Rye.’ I had to read it in college and absolutely hated it. Sorry! :/

9. Are there any books you would really recommend your fans read besides yours (because yours is a given)?

I hope so! ;)

Amish fiction: Cindy’s and Tricia’s books mentioned above, and I thought A Miracle for Miriam by Kathleen Fuller was cute

Contemporary Romance: The Isaac Project by Sarah Monzon, Love In A Fix by Leah Atwood, any of Anita Higman’s books

Historical Romance: The Orphan Bride and The Cowhand’s Bride by Brandi Gabriel

10.  Is there anything else you want to tell us about Jennifer Spredemann? 

My desire is that my books touch readers’ hearts and bring them closer to God.

I also write under the pen name MichelynnChristy. I currently have 3 titles under this pseudonym: Love Unawares (a mail order bride novella set in the late 1800s,) A Christmas to Remember (a Christmas novelette set in a small California town I used to live in,) and If He Only Knew (this is actually a retelling of my book An Unforgivable Secret, but it is set in the late 1960s) coauthored with Brandi Gabriel.

I don’t have an actual date yet, but sometime this winter (Lord willing) readers should be able to purchase my J.E.B.Spredemann books in paperback at their local Walmart stores (they’re already available at Walmart online.) Look in the book area near Harlequin’s Love Inspired section – and if you do happen to see them, snap a picture and let me know! (They would make great stocking stuffers, by the way! ;)) Thanks. J

 I have TWO books to giveaway, A Secret Sacrifice (Amish Secrets #5) ebook and Love Unawares (Special Delivery Brides) signed paperback.

Readers, I welcome any questions. Thank you for reading!

Debbie, thanks once again for inviting me to your blog! It was an honor to be here. 

                           Book Spotlights 

A Secret Sacrifice

About the book: When seventeen-year-old school teacher Rosanna Keim moves to Honey Ridge, the last thing she expects is to find the love of her life.

Zachariah Zook thought he always knew what he wanted - to buy a farm in his beautiful state of Kentucky, settle down, and live a peaceable Amish life. But John Christner, his wayward-leaning best friend, has him worried. When the Keim family, including beautiful Rosanna, temporarily move into the Zook family’s home, Zach thinks this might just be the ticket to secure John's future among the Plain folk. Believing his departure will be best for all, Zachariah selflessly steps out into the unknown. Little does he realize that his sacrifice will forever alter all of their lives… 

230 pages, from Blessed Publishing

Love Unawares  

About the book: Grace Swanson had no idea what she was getting herself into when she agreed to move to rural Texas as a mail-order bride. An accident upon her arrival blocks out her memory leaving her totally dependent upon handsome widower Jedidiah Johnson. Although they'd shared letters, she was completely unprepared for Jed and sweet little Abilene. Still reeling from the loss of his first wife, Grace has no idea how to help the struggling man. Can she and Jed iron out their differences or will Grace return to Baltimore - the only secure place she remembers? A novella-length Historical Christian Romance

Here are Jennifer's Media Sites! 

J.E.B. Spredemann 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/J.E.B.-Spredemann/e/B00AB4BTUU/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Website: https://www.jebspredemann.com/ 

FB page: https://www.facebook.com/jebspredemann

Michelynn ChristyAmazon: https://www.amazon.com/Michelynn-Christy/e/B00PPH8CJ4/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Website: www.michelynnchristy.com

FB page: https://www.facebook.com/MichelynnC/   

                   GiveAway

 Jennifer has  TWO books to giveaway, A Secret Sacrifice (Amish Secrets #5) ebook and Love Unawares (Special Delivery Brides) signed paperback.  TWO DIFFERENT WINNERS. To be entered to win just comment below and say which book you want a chance to win.  You can try for both but can only win one.  And PLEASE LEAVE A WAY FOR US TO REACH YOU IF YOU ARE THE WINNER!