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Revealing the Truth by Lorri Dudley Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Revealing the Truth

Author: Lorri Dudley

Genre:Historical Romance

Release date: May 30, 2023

His suspect holds a secret, but can he uncover the truth before she steals his heart?

When Katherine Jenkins is rescued from the side of the road, half-frozen and left for dead, her only option is to stay silent about her identity or risk being shipped back to her ruthless guardian, who will kill to get his hands on her inheritance and the famous Jenkins Lipizzaner horses. But even under the pretense of amnesia, she cannot shake the memory of her sister and Katherine’s need to reach her before their guardian, or his marauding bandits, finish her off. Will she be safe in the earl’s manor, or will the assailant climbing through her window be the death of her?

British spy, Stephen Hartington’s assignment to uncover an underground horse-thieving ring brings him home to his family’s manor, and the last thing he expected was to be struck with a candlestick upon climbing through the guest chamber window. The manor’s feisty and intriguing new house guest throws Stephen’s best-laid plans into turmoil and raises questions about the timing of her appearance, the convenience of her memory loss, and her impeccable riding skills. Could he be housing the horse thief he’d been ordered to capture—or worse, falling in love with her?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lorri Dudley has been a finalist in numerous writing contests and has a master’s degree in Psychology. She lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household. Find her online at www.lorridudley.com.

More from Lorri

Horses, spies, and romance…

Horse stealing in Regency England was a lucrative venture. In some instances, a sale would bring in the equivalent of a quarter of a year’s income. If caught, however, horse thievery held a high price—capital punishment, typically by hanging. Criminals were a varied group, ranging from child pranksters stealing their neighbor’s workhorse for a joy ride to professional horse-thieving rings who transported their contraband a considerable distance, over 31 miles (or 50 kilometers) and sometimes internationally. They traveled to avoid buyers who’d recognize stolen property.

The British spy network of the Regency era didn’t yet hold the famous name MI6. Instead, it formed two departments the War Department, which handled international matters, and the Home Office, which dealt with domestic issues. Revealing the Truth’s hero, Lord Stephen Hartington, works as a contracted spy for the Home Office, assigned to catch horse thieves in his hometown near the rolling hills and flowing rivers of England’s Cotswolds.

The heroine, Katherine Jenkins, has reservations regarding love and trust. She inherited the well-known Jenkin’s Lipizzaner horses, and her fortune attracts her ruthless guardian. He has two options to get his hands on her money that won’t raise her solicitor’s suspicions—marry her or have her meet with a seemingly accidental demise. Due to her guardian’s actions and Katherine’s fiancée’s rejection after her parents passed, it’s no wonder she’s hesitant about love. Through watching Stephen’s interactions with his family, God heals her heart enough to take steps of faith, but allegations of her being a horse thief threaten to undo the progress she’s made.

The seeds of Revealing the Truth were first planted when I was in the seventh grade. I used to carry an idea notebook and jot down scenes whenever inspired. My mother found my old notebook a few years ago and mailed it to me. In it were faded pencil scrawls about a girl escaping into the cold night and collapsing. She’s taken in by kind passersby who nurse her back to health, only to be surprised when their handsome young son climbs in through her bedroom window and so enters Stephen into Katherine’s life.

Enjoy!

To learn more, check out my website at lorridudley.com or wildheartbooks.org or watch the Revealing the Truth book trailer by clicking here: Revealing the Truth book trailer.

My Impressions

“Courage is a habit.”

Lorri Dudley’s historical romance Revealing the Truth leaves me wishing I could just bask in the happiness that comes with reading such a well-written book. I loved it for the romance thread, and for the deceptions that made for great reader angst. The spy aspect added depth, as did the relationships that were either horrific or beauteous and life-giving. Dudley also outdoes herself with some twists that elevate the novel to a new level.

I wished the novel had itself included more about the Lipizzaner horses, but it did include a lot of horse riding, and some horse handling tips. I was interested enough to research the Lipizzaner horses to get a feel for why that breed was important to the novel.

I loved the way that the faith of Stephen, Abby, and his parents, influences Katherine. They are quick to pray when a need arises and urge others to do the same. They can encourage others to trust, because they, esp. Stephen’s mother, have learned how to trust God. However, it is Abby that explains her fear and how she overcame it. “I let fear have its way. Soon, it controlled me. You should have seen it. I would shake uncontrollably just being near a horse, which is dreadful when you live on a horse farm. It spilled over into other areas of my life too. I couldn’t ride in a carriage or go into town. My world shrunk as I became captive to fear.”

“Courage is a habit…My faith grew one step at a time.”

If you like Christian romance, encouragement in your faith, spies of England in the 1800s, horses, or you just enjoy seeing good family relationships, I highly recommend Revealing the Truth!

I was given a complimentary copy of the book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Arrogance is having too high of an opinion in one’s self, otherwise known as putting on airs. Confidence is humbly knowing who you are and what you can do through Christ Jesus. I am confident.”

“We think we can change our behavior to fix our lives…What we really need is to trust God and let Him change our hearts.”

“Faith requires trust, not logic.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent! I don’t reread books. But if I did, this would be one to read over and over and get all the same feels!

Blog Stops

Melissa’s Bookshelf, May 30

Holly’s Book Corner, May 30

lakesidelivingsite, May 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 2

Kristina Hall, June 2

Texas Book-aholic, June 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, June 4 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, June 4

Lily’s Book Reviews, June 5

Cover Lover Book Review, June 6

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, June 6

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , June 7

Betti Mace, June 8

She Lives To Read, June 8

Connie’s History Classroom, June 9

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, June 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 11

Blogging With Carol, June 11

Pause for Tales, June 12

For Him and My Family, June 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lorri 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/263d5/revealing-the-truth-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle

Transhuman by Rena Groot Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Transhuman – Will We Obey God or Play God?

Author: Rena Groot

Genre: Apocalyptic Fiction

Release date: 2021

This work of apocalyptic fiction is based on reality to come. The lines have been purposely blurred between pure fact and pure fiction. It is a warning based on God’s Word. He has told us a time of unprecedented terror is about to come upon the earth. His wrath will be poured out on sinful and unrepentant humanity in a series of judgements. The intensity and severity of these judgements will be unparalleled in human history. The judgements will be on a global scale that will take place over a seven-year period.

The judgements are reserved for those who have chosen to reject Christ. Even in wrath God is displaying mercy. He wants the lost to be found. All who have rebelled against Him are given a chance to find Him. This is His last and final call to the sons and daughters of Adam. Sadly, many will harden their hearts and turn away from the most beautiful invitation ever to have been extended in all of human history. They will curse God and stay entrenched in their rebellious ways.

God does not hide this awful reality from us. He wants us to be wise and flee from the wrath to come. If we are already His He wants us to warn others—to point them to the narrow path that leads to life. TRANSHUMAN is based on my thoughts of what the world may look like at the halfway point in the Tribulation. The Rapture has already taken place. All who have been invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb are seated. Time will soon be no more. The curtains are opening on the world stage.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Hi. My name is Rena Groot. I have a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and a Masters of Religious Education from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary in Cochrane, Alberta. I have been a teacher in Canada and China, have published eight books, I have designed a digital course called Broken to Beautiful-Transformed By God’s Power, I have been a tour manager from the Rockies to the Pacific, have been a missionary to the ends of the Earth, a mom of four—and the most important part—I am a child of God.

More from Rena

My Impressions

“You’ve been selected for a very special project.”

It seems everyone is talking about the terms AI and transhuman these days. Rena Groot has worked this concept into her Revelation trilogy, with Transhuman: Will We Obey God or Play God? Book 2 in The Narrow Path Trilogy, Transhuman picks up where Manhunt left off. I wasn’t a big fan of Manhunt, but Groot really changed the way she approached the narrative in Transhuman, and, yes, I’m a fan.

First off, Groot provides enough backstory and back flashes that I believe you can read this book, even if you haven’t read book 1.

Secondly, and most important to me, there is much more actual storytelling going on in Transhuman. And it is very captivating. There is much Scriptural truth to be shared, but Groot chooses to weave much of it into the storyline, using in her own words and visions and dreams of the characters. Now I could pay attention to the Scripture quotations when they are used, as a reasonable amount of insertion of straight-up information.

I really felt the novel flowed smoothly, except for the jitters I got from the suspense of Josh’s, Rachel’s, Frank’s, and Juliet’s situations. The King accomplishes amazing good for the world after the startling great disappearance of millions. Yet, he ultimately has one goal: to be like the Most High. You will be amazed at the King’s plan for Josh’s life. While he claims to have a wonderful plan for people’s lives, he actually leaves lives in ruin. How different from the true King, who has a wonderful plan of fulfillment, joy, peace, and eternal life for those who follow Him.

I read with great anticipation to see how the various believers would handle the challenges forced upon them. Never once does Groot let the reader relax. The angst Groot inspires is strong throughout the book and leaves the reader ready for the last novel, Convergence. The Gospel is clearly presented, which is a key factor as well.

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“They asked God to get out of their lives, to leave them alone, and He did. Now people were feeling the effects of the universe falling apart. This was the unintentional consequence of man turning their backs on God.”

“You can’t force people to trust.”

“If these brain chips can be used to upload thoughts to computers — wouldn’t the reverse be possible as well? Couldn’t thoughts be downloaded from computers directly into the brain allowing populations to be manipulated and controlled? I believe this technology will lead to man’s greatest nightmares.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great!! I really enjoyed this sequel to Manhunt and was very glad I gave this author a second chance!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 1

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 2

Artistic Nobody, June 3 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, June 4

Guild Master, June 5 (Author Interview)

Scott’s Book Reviews, June 5

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 6

Beauty in the Binding, June 7 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 8

Simple Harvest Reads, June 9 (Author Interview)

annette_reads_daily, June 9

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 10

A Reader’s Brain, June 11 (Author Interview)

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

For the Love of Literature, June 13 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rena is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 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/263ea/transhuman-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, Barbour, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, NetGalley, PB, Purchase

Man of Shadow and Mist by Michelle Griep

About the Book

Title: Man of Shadow and Mist

Series: Of Monsters and Men, #2

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction, Romance

Release: May 2023

“The world seems full of good men—even if there are monsters in it.”
–Bram Stoker, Dracula

England, 1890

Vampires are alive and well in North Yorkshire, leastwise in the minds of the uneducated. Librarian Rosa Edwards intends to drive a stake through the heart of such superstitions. But gossip flies when the mysterious Sir James Morgan returns to his shadowy manor. The townsfolk say he is cursed.

James hates everything about England. The weather. The rumours. The scorn. Yet he must stay. His mother is dying of a disease for which he’s desperately trying to find a cure—an illness that will eventually take his own life.

When Rosa sets out to prove the dark gossip about James is wrong, she discovers more questions than answers. How can she accept what she can’t explain—especially the strong allure of the enigmatic man? James must battle a town steeped in fear as well as the unsettling attraction he feels for the no-nonsense librarian.

Can love prevail in a town filled with fear and doubt?

About the Author


I hear voices. Loud. Incessant. And very real. Which basically gives me two options: choke back massive amounts of Prozac or write fiction. I’ve been writing since I discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. I seek to glorify God in all that I write–except for that graffiti phase I went through as teenager.

My Impressions

“I am an outsider. I have always seen things differently, and it puts people on edge. Makes them nervous when their long-held beliefs are challenged.”

“How do I love thee? Let count the ways.” No, I am not talking about the relationship between the heroine, Rosa Edwards, and either of the possible love interests, Sir James Morgan or Albin Mallow. Rather, I speak of the wonder of the novel that is Man of Shadow and Mist by Michelle Griep. The spooky, inviting cover!! Spell-binding. Mesmerizing. Unpredictable. Full of true faith. Great Quotes. Masterful. Griep is a Wordsmith extraordinaire. ( ie: “A few more word grenades launched from Mallow and the situation would explode Miss Edwards’s reputation to shreds.” or

“Morgrave Manor was as pleasant as a cold slap to the cheek.” (Can’t you just feel that one?!! ) And so many other great visual word pictures I want to share but will save for you to discover!!

How can two solitary individuals fight ugly, local superstitions and rumors that villanize a rich, transplanted family? As evil happenings increase and coincide with either the appearance of Sir James Morgan or ill weather, gossip runs rampant and feelings get out of hand.

I loved that Rosa Edwards is brave enough to stand against public opinion and defend her new friend against ridiculous, unfounded claims. I also love to see that while her parents are eager to marry her off, she maintains a special connection and understanding with her father. This is not true in most books in the time of arranged marriages.

Sir James is tall, good looking, and underneath all his frightening demeanor, the kindest, most thoughtful, caring man I’d ever want to meet. With an amazing faith that doesn’t require God to answer prayers in his favor.

The parson and Mrs. Hawkins are both secondary characters whose influence is greatly needed and freely bestowed, without being judgmental. Will James and Rosa take their timely words to heart?

I love how Griep inserts Bram Stoker himself and his manuscript into the novel. Talk about an Easter egg. This has got to be a Fabergé! Each chapter begins with quote from Dracula by Bram Stoker.

I recommend this extraordinary novel for historical fiction lovers, faith quote lovers, possibly Jaime Jo Wright readers, and Dracula lovers.

I received complimentary copy from the author through Barbour Books, and also through Cekebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought a 3rd copy to give away. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Lady Dorina hails from Transylvania, the historical birthplace of such monsters.” Mrs. Edwards sniffed. “My family roots tie back to Ireland, sir, but that doesn’t make me a leprechaun.”

“If God wor so small tha’ thou could understan’ ‘im, ‘e would not be good enuff ta stand wi’ thou in all that ye face. Every one of us needs a God who is bigger than we credit, else ‘e ‘ood not be God.”

“Expect the good Lord ta give thou a glass o’ water when yer parched, ta grant thou rest when weary, ta gi’ miracles ‘n mercy ‘n a regular dose o’ comfort when thou needs. But the one thin’ thou shouldn’t expect—ever—is for ‘im ta show up lookin’ like thou might imagine.”

‘Tis the moment thou lets go of thy expectations tha’ God can fettle wi’ ye. ‘Til then, ye’ve not surrendered, thou see?”

“It’s not what goes into the body that makes one an infidel, but what comes out of the heart.”

“Ye can trust that God will grow each of His true children into His likeness in His own time and in His own way.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent!! I love how Griep can take the Gothic and make it thrilling, full of word candy, faith-filled, and logical as well!!

Giveaway

This first post of Man of Shadow and Mist is a personal giveaway. I am giving away one paperback copy of Man of Shadow and Mist. Unfortunately, this copy arrived with a crease in the cover. Leave your name and email if you want to be in the drawing, which I will conduct on Tuesday, June 6th. I will email the winner on June 7th.

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Love Inspired Suspense, New-to-Me Author

A Cry in the Dark by Jessica R Patch Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: A Cry in the Dark

Author: Jessica R. Patch

Genre: Inspirational Psychological Thriller

Release date: February 28, 2023

Deep in the Kentucky hills, three women have been found brutalized and murdered.

But the folks in Night Holler have their own ways and their own laws.

And they’re not talking…

Led to an isolated Appalachian Mountain town by a trail of disturbing murders, FBI special agent Violet Rainwater’s determined to catch a serial killer with a twisted agenda. With locals refusing to reveal their secrets, Violet’s only ally is Detective John Orlando. But even John has an ulterior motive—he’s convinced this case is connected to his wife’s murder.

As they dig deeper, Violet uncovers a link to her own unresolved past. For years she’s worked the cold case of her mother’s abduction, which had led to her birth. The need to look into the eyes of the sinful man who fathered her consumes Violet. Until she can, she’ll never have peace. Because she’s terrified she might be exactly like him.

In this chilling novel, when the present collides with Violet’s mysterious past and John’s tragic loss, they must unravel the warped, sinuous connections before the killer strikes again. But solving the case might not be nearly as terrifying as the possibility that Violet’s finally found her roots…

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Jessica R. Patch is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author known for her dry wit, signatures twists, and complex characters. She loves reading true crime books, discussing cold cases over chips and salsa with her girlfriends, and hunting down serial killers in her romantic suspense novels and psychological thrillers.

Jessica loves to encourage and inspire people to forward living through her Forward Friday Blog posts and through her monthly email newsletter. You can join the Patched In community at her website: http://www.jessicarpatch.com.

She resides in the Memphis area with her husband, two young adult children, and her spoiled tri-color Shetland Sheepdog. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.

More from Jessica

A Cry in the Dark can’t be compared to Scooby Doo, but I can thank Scooby Doo for being my first introduction into the world of mystery and all matter of things that go bump in the night. But, in the end, the masks of darkness are always revealed in the light and are exposed. Justice served. This is why I write gritty crime fiction/psychological thrillers outside of my Love Inspired Suspense books.

In Luke 22:53 NLT, they come to arrest Jesus and crucify Him. “Why didn’t you arrest me in the Temple? I was there every day. But this is your moment, the time when the power of darkness reigns.”

Darkness gets one moment. Just one. When they crucify and kill Him. But we know what happens next! Light bursts out of that dark tomb and victory is ours. We’re rescued in darkness from darkness into marvelous light.

In a thriller, darkness gets its moment. I don’t shy away from those tough things. The Bible didn’t shy away from it! We read about a Levite who gave cruel men his concubine which they abused all night until she died, and then he cut her up into parts and sent her to the tribes! God never approves of darkness, nor does He edit it out or sanitize the people. We see the depravity of humans when walking apart from God all through the Bible. And honestly, I’m glad He doesn’t edit out things I’d rather not see or read about. God works in broken people’s lives and through brokenness to accomplish His redemptive purposes. I’m broken. You’re broken. He can use the righteous as well as the wicked. I need to be reminded that without Him, I could fall into those same traps (not cutting up women but… you know) and I need to know that despite my weakness and brokenness, God can and will still use me!

A Cry in the Dark has some violence and darker subject matter (though it is not graphic in real time) because darkness gets a moment…and then hope reaches in, hears the cries in the dark of broken people, and rescues them. And in the end, that’s what this book is about. A great and powerful rescue mission out of darkness and into light!

My Impressions

“And Reeva knew in that moment, she’d birthed a monster.”

“Monsters can’t be fixed.”

Whew! I made it out of Jessica R Patch’s latest book, A Cry in the Dark, alive! Some characters, due to the nature of this thriller-chiller, won’t.

Violet Rainwater, part of the Strange Crimes Unit, joins her teammates in the hollers of Kentucky to ferret out “The Blind Eye Killer,” who is tormenting his victims before he ends their lives. Violet is good at profiling killers, but her real reason for her career choice is to have better access to tools to find her father. Her background closes her off from everyone, and God wasn’t around when she needed Him, either. She believes the lies she has been told about herself all her life. Will she always be “unloved and unwanted”?

John Orlando is part of the Memphis Missing Persons Unit. He offers his services to the team, knowing he may be able to discover information about his late wife’s tragic death. Will the truth be more than he can handle?

This is the first novel I have read by Jessica Patch. It can stand alone well. Oh, but the willies!! I didn’t bargain for quite so many when I chose this book. But Patch has a way of luring the reader in deeper, into the dark recesses of the human psyche, until you simply MUST place yourself in the heroine’s shoes and figure out the mystery. I loved that a wide variety of suspects is offered up like a smorgasbord. All seem like viable candidates. Patch will have your mind and heart twisting and turning like a wild coaster ride as you attempt to follow the action.

Best of all, though, light breaks through the darkness at the end. God does not stay silent, but as Violet discovers, He was there waiting all the time. “But I couldn’t reach out until I recognized that I needed to reach…and then…I found God had already stretched out His arm to meet mine. He grabbed ahold, and He didn’t let go.”

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

She had never been smart enough, good enough, kind enough, behaved enough…nothing. Even when she went into law enforcement, it wasn’t enough for Reeva. For Grandmother.

“We might start out havin’ to survive, Agent. But we can turn survivin’ into thrivin’.”- Mother

It’s hard to know who you are when you’ve been told for so long who you’re supposed to be.

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent! Incomparable Psychological Thriller!

Blog Stops

The Sacred Line, May 23

Genesis 5020, May 23

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 24

Walking Fruitfully, May 24

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 25

Betti Mace, May 26

Cover Lover Book Review, May 26

Pause for Tales, May 27

Texas Book-aholic, May 28

For Him and My Family, May 28

Simple Harvest Reads, May 29 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Blogging With Carol, May 30

Blossoms and Blessings, May 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 31

Splashes of Joy, May 31

Godly Book Reviews, June 1

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, June 1

Holly’s Book Corner, June 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 3

amandainpa, June 3

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, June 4

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, June 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 5

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jessica is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed paperback of Her Darkest Secret!!

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

BLOG

Woo-Hoo!

A most unusual proposal…

Alone in 1870s Idaho Territory, Paisley Abbott has nowhere to turn. With no other options, she finds herself consenting to an unconventional, but mutually beneficial agreement.

During an unplanned return to his family’s farm, prodigal Tyler Shepherdson inherits three orphans. When Tyler finds a woman hiding in the back of his wagon, an idea begins to form and he makes a rash decision that results in perhaps one of the most spontaneous marriages of convenience ever.

Despite an unorthodox beginning to their marriage, will Paisley and Tyler trust God as they forge ahead to create a home for three children? Will love arise from a desperate situation?

In the first book in the Horizon Series, travel to the late 1800s to the town of Horizon in the Idaho Territory with a cast of unforgettable characters, journeys of faith, and abundant humor.

Coming soon, the newest series by the author of the Wyoming Sunrise, Love Letters from Ellis Creek, and Montana Skies Christian Historical Romance Series.

**********

The ebook version is available for preorder at Amazon.

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

Murmur in the Mudcaves by Kathleen Denly Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Murmur in the Mudcaves

Author: Kathleen Denly

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: May 16, 2023

He came to cook for ranch hands, not three single women.

Gideon Swift, a visually impaired Civil War Veteran, responds to an ad for a ranch cook in the Southern California desert mountains. He wants nothing more than to forget his past and stay in the kitchen where he can do no harm. But when he arrives to find his employer murdered, the ranch turned to ashes, and three young women struggling to survive in the unforgiving Borrego Desert, he must decide whether his presence protects them or places them in greater danger.

Bridget “Biddie” Davidson finally receives word from her older sister who disappeared with their brother and pa eighteen years prior, but the news is not good. Determined to help her family, Biddie sets out for a remote desert ranch with her adopted father and best friend. Nothing she finds there is as she expected, including the man who came to cook for the shambles of a ranch.

When tragedy strikes, the danger threatens not only her plans to help her sister, but her own dreams for the future—with the man who’s stolen her heart.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kathleen Denly lives in sunny Southern California with her loving husband, four young children, and two cats. As a member of the adoption and foster community, children in need are a cause dear to her heart and she finds they make frequent appearances in her stories. When she isn’t writing, researching, or caring for children, Kathleen spends her time reading, visiting historical sites, hiking, and crafting.

More from Kathleen

The Making of a Hero

Picture in your mind the typical male rancher or cowboy. Can you see him? If we’re going for the full stereotype, you’re looking at a tall, handsome man who is, above all, strong. Particularly in the nineteenth century, it takes strength to build a house, install fencing, chop wood, haul water, heft hay bales, and most of all manage cattle. Not to mention the 101 other things it takes to start and keep a ranch running. 

Now consider the aftermath of the American Civil War. Many men never returned from the battlefields, and those who did often returned with injuries that would remain with them the rest of their lives. Some would suffer chronic pain until the day they died. 

In considering whose story I wanted to tell next, I wondered about that last group of men in the context of running a ranch. How could a seriously injured man, suffering chronic pain, keep his ranch going in an era where able-bodied men were more difficult to find? And what about those whose ranches were too new and small to support the cost of hiring help? 

This was the beginning of my inspiration for Gideon Swift–a Civil War Veteran still struggling daily with the consequences of having gone to war, ten years after his injuries sent him home. 

Raised to believe true men were strong and weak men were next-to useless, Gideon’s identity is shattered when an explosion leaves him with brain damage that causes recurring migraines with aura and the loss of periphery vision in one eye. For those unfamiliar, a migraine with aura is a severe headache preceded or accompanied by sensory disturbances called aura. Examples of such disturbances include flashes of light, blind spots, general blurry vision, and blurry or shimmery lines in vision. There can also be speech or language difficulty, muscle weakness, and/or numbness or tingling in one side of a person’s face, one hand, or one limb. Gideon experiences most of these at different times, but his most common sensory disturbance is a curled shimmery line that appears in his vision. 

He is further humbled by a series of tragic losses partially triggered by his medical condition. These are the events that send him to California, determined never to work with cattle again, and never to marry.

I am often asked how much of myself I put into my characters. In Gideon’s case, I modeled his pain partially after my own. While I have no peripheral vision loss, nor brain damage, I do have recurring migraines. In my case, these are brought about by my menstrual cycle and only occasionally involve aura symptoms. Still, these severe headaches have lasted from a mere hour, up to nearly a week, and are frequently beyond anything my medications can alleviate. Too often, this pain leaves me unable to function. If I’m lucky I can sleep through it. If not, I lay awake in a darkened room for hours with pain preventing me from drifting into blissful unconsciousness. Nauseousness, foggy thinking, dizziness, and exhaustion are frequently parts of my experience. I have also experienced one-sided tingling numbness and the same curly, shimmering line that Gideon experiences. Yet, I know others who have far worse migraines. So, in describing Gideon’s episodes, I combined my own experiences with those of family and friends whom I have witnessed suffering. 

Through Murmur in the Mud Caves, we see how God works in Gideon’s life and heart to remind him of where his true value and strength come from. It is my hope that his journey will touch the hearts of readers and encourage them in whatever trials they may be facing. We are never alone. Whatever God brings us to, He will bring us through. He loves us and has a good purpose for everything we endure in this life, even when we cannot understand His reasons.

My Impressions

“If you doubt God’s forgiveness, then it seems to me, you’ve been listening to the wrong voice. “

Kathleen Denly brings us back to eastern San Diego County, CA, in Murmur in the Mudcaves(#4 Chaparral Hearts). The year is 1873, and Biddie Davidson, whose adoptive parents and story we read in a previous book, has become a young woman, ready to start her own bakery. But God and her biological sister, Ginny Baker, whom she hasn’t seen since she was four, have other plans for her, or at least, in Ginny’s case, her money.

Biddie meets the war-damaged hero, Gideon Swift, when he shows up to cook for Oliver Baker and his ranch, neither still in existence. When Gideon discovers three women in the middle of the desert with no real shelter, his sense of gentlemanliness will not let him leave the three women alone. But can a man who is damaged from the war really be the protector the women need in this wild place? Gideon has a lot to learn about blaming himself for circumstances beyond his control and also about forgiving himself for false guilt. I love one of the characters who ends up helping him learn this!! Not one I would have imagined.

I love the way Matthew helps interpret Scripture correctly for Gideon, both stealing his argument that he wasn’t strong enough and and offering hope for his spiritual condition as well. That’s what Jesus does. While He may or may not offer physical healing, that healing is never without spiritual healing also offered freely.

I did question one part of the story. “Even as kids, Ginny had always felt she had something to prove.” How would Biddie have understood this at 4 yrs old, since that was the last time she had seen her sister?

I liked that there are some issues and relationships left unresolved, and we are promised another book. I really hope Ginny and Clyve get their own story. Clyve slowly morphed into my fave secondary character. Denly drew him such that I despised him at first, so that is really saying something!

Of course, sometimes Denly just makes me smile. For example: “Biddie could talk a camel into trying to swim the Gulf of Mexico.” What a great word picture!!

With great discussion questions at the end and Denly’s obvious research, Murmur in the Mudcaves is a book I recommend. The Chapparal Hearts Series should probably be read in order.

Notable Quotables:

“God’s voice convicts us when we’ve done wrong, but it sounds like you’ve been living with a heap of shame clogging your ears.”

“Being a man isn’t about what you can’t do, it’s about what you choose to do.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, May 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 18

Books You Can Feel Good About, May 18

Texas Book-aholic, May 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 20

For Him and My Family, May 20

Melissa’s Bookshelf, May 21

Connie’s History Classroom, May 21

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 22

Betti Mace, May 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 23

Madi’s Musings, May 23

Pause for Tales, May 24

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 25

Kristina Hall, May 25

Vicky Sluiter, May 26

Blossoms and Blessings, May 26

Blogging With Carol, May 27

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, May 28 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 28

Cover Lover Book Review, May 29

Holly’s Book Corner, May 30

Karen Baney Reviews, May 30

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize package of 1 set of beautifully engraved, metal measuring spoons, 1 pouch of “Baking Day” potpourri, 1 Cat and Mouse kitchen timer, 1 vintage wooden sign with Christian encouragement message, 1 Cowboy Hat cookie cutter with recipe for Cowboy Sugar Cookies, 1 Kitchen towel that reads, “This Home is our Happily Ever After”, and 1 Kathleen Denly engraved pen!!

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/2606f/murmur-in-the-mudcaves-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Hardback, Kiddie Lit, Kindle, New-to-Me Author, Picture Book

Guess How Much God Loves You by Karen Ferguson Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Guess How Much God Loves You

Author: Karen Ferguson

Genre: Children’s book (picture book)

Release date: July 19, 2022

Take a journey through the Bible with Lucy Lu, a colorful, creatively curious first grader who is starting to have serious questions about God.

Questions like: How old is He? Does He sleep? What does He do all day? And the biggest one of all – does God really love me?

After one very hard day, feeling like she doesn’t matter, Lucy sits with her Papa Joe who has promised to answer these questions and more, launching them onto an exciting journey to discover God’s never changing, never failing, never ending love.

What follows in this book series is a wild adventure through the Bible, where Lucy and her Papa find themselves in the middle of it all, on each page of the powerful story of God’s love and faithfulness for all people, throughout all history.

This first book is all about God’s Creation 🌎

Guess How Much God Loves You is a vibrant, fun, and biblically based book that is sure to captivate young readers as it teaches them important Bible truths that will help them build a firm foundation in God and His Good Character – all through the lens of His unconditional love.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Karen Ferguson is a freelance writer and small business owner with a background in K-8 education. A grateful wife, mom, and grandmom she loves words and the Word of God and is passionate about writing stories that grab and hold young readers’ attention, teaching them all about God’s unchangeable truths, and His unchanging love for them.

Her first children’s book, Guess How Much God Loves You, was released in July 2022 through Ambassador International and is available wherever books are sold.

More from Karen

Are you looking for God honoring books that will captivate your child’s imagination, teach them faith-building biblical concepts, and help them grow in their reading skills?

Then I have the perfect book for your young reader…Guess How Much God Loves You

This beautifully illustrated book introduces young readers to the Creation Account, through the eyes of seven year old Lucy Lu, a creatively curious first grader who is starting to have serious questions about God.

Questions like…

How old is He? Does He sleep? What does He do all day? And the biggest one of all – does God really love me?

After one very hard day, feeling like she doesn’t matter, Lucy sits with her Papa Joe who has promised to answer these questions and more, launching them onto an exciting journey through the Bible to discover God’s never changing, never failing, never ending love.

I wrote this book because I want every child to know their life matters. To know that the God of all things created them in His image, on purpose and for a good purpose.

Guess How Much God Loves You will have seven books in the series with each one covering an important Bible account critical to building an understanding of God’s character and His love for all people, including your reader!

This first book is about the Creation Account as recorded in the Bible. Future books will cover the Garden of Eden, Noah’s Ark, the Exodus and more.

I want children to understand these are not just stories about fictional characters, but historical accounts about real people they can relate to. People who experienced God’s power, love, and faithfulness.

My greatest desire is to see this next generation trust the Bible and enjoy reading it. More than ever, young readers need to hear the message that they are valuable, loved unconditionally by the One who created them and gave them the best gift of all, His Son Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.

My Impressions

“Lucy, God chose to create people and God chose to create you.

No matter what anyone says to you, remember that God’s love for you is never-changing, never-failing, and never-ending.”

I jumped at the opportunity to review Guess How Much God Loves You by Karen Ferguson. I believe children find it easier to believe in God than adults do, so we want to start training children when they are still young. This book helps us do that. In my personal experience, reading the book to a four-year-old, questions about God came forth as we read. Exactly the opening of discussions we are looking for!

The message that Karen Ferguson desires to help parents, grandparents, and any adult in a healthy relationship with a child, is that they are totally, unconditionally loved. Also, we want our children to have a sense of belonging, love, and significance. When a child can begin to understand how much God loves them, it provides unshakable security for life. Ferguson uses some imagination to allow Lucy to enter into the creation scenes as Papa Joe describes them from the Bible. The pictures are full-page, sometimes double-page with writing that is readable overlaying the picture.

The bit of imagination Ferguson uses (i.e., Lucy flying on Grandpa’s scooter over the ocean, or Lucy riding an elephant during the sixth day of creation) makes for exciting “you-are-there” experiences.

There are discussion questions at the end that help the listener check comprehension. Ferguson includes some important one-line facts with Bible verse support in a version a child can understand.

Perhaps my one regret has nothing to do with the story, but the illustration, and there’s no fault there, either. I was very pleased Grandpa Joe was confined to a scooter, as my grandson’s own great-grandfather was. Unfortunately, my father passed away just months before we got a chance to read the book together.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author through Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 18

Lots of Helpers, May 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 19 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 19

Cover Lover Book Review, May 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 21

Texas Book-aholic, May 22

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, May 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 23

Pause for Tales, May 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 25

Bliss, Books & Jewels, May 25

Vicky Sluiter, May 26

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 27

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 28

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, May 29

Mary Hake, May 29

Labor Not in Vain, May 30

For Him and My Family, May 31

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of a $30 Amazon gift card, one signed hardcover, one eBook, and one digital activity workbook that will help to reinforce the learning concepts in a fun way!!

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/26071/guess-how-much-god-loves-you-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, New-to-Me Author

Manhunt by Rena Groot

About the Book

Book: Manhunt-Only the Strong Survive

Author: Rena Groot

Genre: Apocalyptic Fiction

Release date: 2020

The Narrow Path Trilogy takes you on a journey that began before the dawn of time when angels rebelled and the dark, broken days of Earth began. Now is the time of the end. The terrifying reality is Josh is being pursued by the Manhunters. He has no idea why. His family has been captured. Are they alive? To survive the Tribulation, the reign of terror of the king, the children’s prison, the re-education camp, PTSD, the great deception, and betrayal by family and friends, deep faith in God and extreme courage are required. Only the strong survive.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

I am an artist, writer, online course creator (Broken to Beautiful…rena-groot.mykajabi.com), BnB host, have a Bachelor Of Education and a Master of Religious Education, have been a teacher in Canada and China, a tour manager from the Rockies to the Pacific, and a missionary to the ends of the Earth. God has given me the honor of being an ambassador with “The Department of Eternal Affairs” to so many cool places–Haiti, a jungle village in Belize, the Ghetto in NYC, behind the Iron Curtain in Poland and Romania, in Israel, China, Thailand, Mexico, Canada, Africa, and Greece. I started a blog to bless, encourage, and sometimes challenge people. Here’s the link. renagroot.com.

More from Rena

The Narrow Path Trilogy takes you on a journey that began before the dawn of time when angels rebelled and the dark, broken days of Earth began. Now is the time of the end.

The terrifying reality is Josh is being hunted and he has no idea why. His family has been captured by the Manhunters and he doesn’t know if they are alive or dead. To survive the Tribulation, the reign of terror of the King, the children’s prison, the re-education camp, PTSD, the great deception, and betrayal of family and friends; deep faith in God and extreme courage are required. The ancient, narrow path is calling you. Come…

My Impressions

“The days were dark but the light shone brighter.”

Rena Groot has written a harrowing story about the End Times as referred to in the Bible, as a warning for people to be ready for Jesus’s return. The story centers around Josh Williams and his family, who turn to Jesus after the Rapture.

Josh suddenly, inexplicably, finds himself being hunted down as the worst kind of criminal. His family is torn apart, and he is desperate to save them and himself.

While there is a good deal of suspense, this was not an easy book for me to read. Stream of consciousness is employed in much of the book, plus flashbacks, and I found it hard to follow cohesively.

There are large portions of Scripture quoted throughout the book. Sometimes so much so, the storyline almost gets lost.

You will definitely be left thinking about the thoughts and truths presented on these pages. What will you do with these truths?

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required and all opinions are my own.

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 4

Artistic Nobody, May 5 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 5

Texas Book-aholic, May 6

Splashes of Joy, May 7 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 8

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 9 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, May 9

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

For the Love of Literature, May 11 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, May 12

Lily Book Reviews, May 13

Through the Fire Blogs, May 14 (Author Interview)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , May 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 16

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, May 17 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rena is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 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/25ca3/manhunt-only-the-strong-survive-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Purchase

Love in the Headlines by Penny Zeller Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Love in the Headlines

Author: Penny Zeller

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: May 9, 2023

Can paper and paw prints draw these two nemeses together?

All Carleigh Adams wants is a relaxing evening. But Sullivan Theodore IV, her wayward Shih Tzu, has other plans. After escaping from home, Sullivan Theodore unlawfully enters what Carleigh assumes is a stranger’s house via a doggy door. Much to Carleigh’s horror, it is actually the home of her coworker and nemesis, Trey “The Irritating” Montgomery.

Trey Montgomery has had to work with “Quirky Carleigh,” his top competitor for the best articles at The Oakville Daily, for the past two years. It’s safe to say that she and her criminally-minded pet are his adversaries. Trey’s attempts to keep his distance from her are demolished when their boss thrusts them together as The Oakville Daily Duo, forcing them to work as a team on every. Single. Article.

Petty crimes and crazy shenanigans in Oakville soon draw Carleigh and Trey into doubling as detectives. When dogs, including their own pets, begin to mysteriously disappear, Carleigh and Trey join forces to uncover the culprit. As they work to report the daily news and solve the crimes in Oakville, can these two stubborn reporters find love in the headlines?

Faith, plentiful humor, and tender romance round out the latest Christian contemporary romance novel by Author Penny Zeller.

Click here to get your copy!

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, bicycling/cycling, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball.

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website,  blog, and on Facebook. 

Subscribe to Penny’s newsletter for writing updates, news about freebies and giveaways, and other fun morsels.

More from Penny

The Inspiration Behind Love in the Headlines

When the idea for Love in the Headlines popped into my head, I knew I wouldn’t have to go far to find the inspiration for Sullivan Theodore IV, the spunky and mischievous Shih Tzu in the story.

For, once upon a time, a little white puppy needed a home.

From the second my niece and nephews walked through the door with him, Sulley Jaxx became more than just a pet. He became a member of the family.

It’s definitely not uncommon for dogs to become members of families. However, Sulley’s adoption became even more special because of his new family.

Years ago, my mom suffered a serious accident and she subsequently became wheelchair-bound. Unable to live the active life she once did, she and my dad were blessed to be able to move into the “mother-in-law apartment” of my sister and brother-in-law’s house.

My niece, Ally, has been diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder, POTS, which can, at times, seriously interfere with her daily activities.

Enter Sulley.

My mom and Ally have what could only be considered as a “joint custody” arrangement. While Sulley’s favorite person is Ally, he is also quite partial to snuggling with my mom in her chair, and truly, my mom spoils him and lets Sulley get away with everything.

Sulley begs treats off a big softie known as my dad, aka Poppy, to his grandchildren, and Sulley runs like the wind with my nephew, Kolten. He recently gained a new admirer when my nephew, Seth, and his wife, Autumn, had their baby daughter.

And the inspiration behind the newspaper reporters? Back when video cameras were big, clunky, and oversized, my sister, cousin, friends, and I pretended to be reporters. We’d report and record the news, including some fun and very fabricated stories. Sometime I’ll have to do an archeological dig and locate those old VHS tapes.

I also wrote “articles” with friends and co-workers from my after-school job as the main characters of those articles. I wanted to be a reporter, and was blessed to be a photojournalist when my daughters were little. That launched my career as an author, my dream since I was in second grade.

Love in the Headlines takes readers on an enjoyable journey into a small, close-knit, American town where everyone knows everyone else. A town where faith and church are important. A slow-paced town where the newspaper’s main goal is to provide a family-friendly news outlet and everyone is excited when their photos or stories are featured. As Howard, the owner, says, “We should have an entire cache of great photos and well-written articles that will cause parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and everyone twice removed to purchase copies of The Oakville Daily.”

Love in the Headlines is a Christian contemporary romance with an enemies-to-lovers trope as the main theme. And, while most things in Oakville move at a relaxed pace, when a stranger begins committing crimes, including dognapping, Howard puts Carleigh and Trey, aka, The Oakville Daily Duo on the story. Will they realize their feelings for each other in the process?

With tender romance, faith, and abundant humor, I can’t wait for readers to meet Carleigh, Trey, Sullivan Theodore IV, Jaxx, and the rest of the gang.

My Impressions

Need to cleanse your reading palate after an emotional read? Love in the Headlines by Penny Zeller is just the solution. A light-hearted rom-com for dog lovers, you will laugh aloud often, maybe recognize your dog, and wonder at a small town that can be so close-knit.

Carleigh Adams and Trey Montgomery, competing writers for the small Oakville Daily, suddenly find themselves equal parts of the Oakville Daily Duo. They are assigned to work every story as a team. But this is one team that can’t stand itself!

This is a fun frenemy-to-lovers story. It borders on the cozy genre, but not quite. I loved seeing inside the slowly evolving thinking of both Carleigh and Trey. Their newsroom coworkers are interesting characters, as well. The dogs steal the show, as might be expected. I really enjoyed this part. It brought back memories of chasing our first Shih Tzu all over the neighborhood. Zeller captures the stubborn, lovable Shih Tzu personality perfectly. And the big dog/ Shepherd characteristics! How fun!

Chewie cheered on Sullivan Theodore IV all the way!!

Except when they cause trouble for Carleigh and Trey, or throw them together in one too many undesirable situations! Some great nods to the past with a vintage newspaper minivan that somehow had me channeling Scooby Doo.

Snippets of faith moments, laughter, gentle romance, and a clean, light mystery make this a novel that I would recommend to anyone.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit, plus I bought a copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great fun! A clean, very humorous rom-com that incorporates faith and adorable dogs!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 11

Pause for Tales, May 12

She Lives to Read, May 13

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, May 14 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 14

Texas Book-aholic, May 15

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 17

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 19

Cover Lover Book Review, May 20

For Him and My Family, May 21

Bizwings Book Blog, May 22

Holly’s Book Corner, May 22

Splashes of Joy, May 23

Karen Baney Reviews, May 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Penny is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift!!

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/25f5a/love-in-the-headlines-celebration-tour-giveaway

Barbour, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, NetGalley, New-to-Me Author

When Tomorrow Came by Hannah Linder Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: When Tomorrow Came

Author: Hannah Linder

Genre:Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Release date: April, 2023

They Waited Their Whole Lives for Their Papa to Return

Nan and Heath Duncan, siblings abandoned by their papa and abused by their guardian, have no choice but to survive on the London streets. When a kind gentleman rescues Nan from such a life, the siblings are separated and raised in two vastly different social worlds. Just when both are beginning to flourish and years have healed some of their wounds, their long-awaited papa returns and reunites them—bringing demands with him. Nan is expected to marry a rich suitor she’s never liked, and Heath is expected to forsake his gentle spirit and become the hardened man his father always was.

Dangers unfold, secret love develops, fights ensue, and murder upsets the worlds Heath and Nan have built for themselves.

They’ve waited their whole lives for their papa to return, for tomorrow to come—but now that it has, will they be able to see through to the truth and end this whirlwind of a nightmare before it costs one of their lives?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and International bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, and ukulele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.

More from Hannah

Love interests me. Not just in the romantic sense, but in every sense, because love is the driving emotion behind so much of what we do. It’s the heartbeat of everything. What do we have but love? Yet isn’t it the very essence of our greatest pain?

Sometimes it doesn’t make sense. Sometimes love has no reason. Like a tumultuous wind or a wet branch that sways in different directions, love is often petulant and aimless and powerful. But sometimes it’s soft, like a flower lifting dewy petals to the sunshine. The epitome of everything good, sweet, and true.

What makes love change? What makes two friends who have always been fraternal one day confess romantic affection? How much wrong, how much affliction, does it take for sweet love to sizzle into hatred? Even then, is it really hatred? Or merely the charred crust of the adoration still throbbing beneath? And how strong are the cords of new love? Will they break at every pull and tug, or are they more unfaltering than anyone might think?

Maybe those are silly questions. Maybe, like snowflakes, every heart knows a different answer. But if I explored anything in When Tomorrow Came, it was this. I glided through the story and felt love shift from brotherly to intimate, from hopeful to disappointed, from untested to proven, from safe to betrayed.

Just as love is the heartbeat of life, it is also the heartbeat of this story. I hope you will find yourself falling in love with the characters and their journey as much as I did.

My Impressions

“When’s Papa coming back?” “Today or tomorrow.”

Young, starving, street urchin siblings from London in the 1800s are separated and raised quite differently, in When Tomorrow Came by Hannah Linder. Nan is raised in high society, by the Stanhope family, with a special attachment to her older foster brother, Gilbert. Nan’s brother Heath is taken in by a poor, caring rector, who teaches Heath how to show people the love of God. This is a balm to my reader’s heart, as Heath is so abused as a child that he cannot understand or love a God who allows many horrible things to happen on His earth.

When Heath and Nan’s absentee biological father finally reappears, the expected bliss of belonging and unconditional love do not come with him. Instead, a papa they don’t remember, who is given to drink, meanness, lies, and threats has arrived.

I did love Nan and Heath and their devotion to each other, as well as Gilbert and Nan’s relationship of deep sibling love. Loftus and Temperance added much to the story. While I loved Mr. Stanhope for his wisdom and caring ways, he was not as developed as other characters.

Linder paints great, but not pretty, pictures of child poverty, abuse, and the machinations of minds bent on revenge.

The loyalties we see in different relationships are beautiful, but choking for Nan and Heath, in the case of their father.

I found the narratives hard to follow as there is no distinction or separation between which characters are being discussed. I had to go back and re-read many times, when the character discussion switched with no warning to the reader, from one sentence to the next.

While an emotionally-charged novel, I had trouble becoming fully engaged until the last third, when it seemed finally all story seeds sprouted. Action, danger, suspense, mystery, romance- it all seemed to come together here and the novel became unputdownable.

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Why couldn’t he just grab her onto his lap, hum the old songs, and be the papa the little girl inside of her still needed?”

“Perhaps it is as important to forgive as to ask for it.

“Love was too powerful to die, so it shriveled and formed into something new. A kind of hatred. A bitterness…”

“There was no changing what already was. There would never be room for tomorrow until Papa let go of every yesterday—and all of its hurt.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great! I enjoyed the story.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, April 28

To Everything There Is A Season, April 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 29

Connie’s History Classroom, April 30

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, April 30

Lily’s Book Reviews, May 1

Genesis 5020, May 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 2

Betti Mace, May 3

Book Looks by Lisa, May 3

Labor Not in Vain, May 4

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, May 4

Cover Lover Book Review, May 5

Blogging With Carol, May 6

For Him and My Family, May 6

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 7

Where Faith and Books Meet, May 8

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, May 8

Holly’s Book Corner, May 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 10

Splashes of Joy, May 10

Pause for Tales, May 11

Books I’ve Read, May 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Hannah 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/25adf/when-tomorrow-came-celebration-tour-giveaway