About the Book
Book: A Gem of Truth
Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Series: Secrets of the Canyon, Book 2
Release Date: September 20, 2022
Julia Schultz has a reputation for being a storyteller--or as others see it, a liar. But with a dark and painful past, stories were all that kept her company and made her interesting to others. Longing for a fresh start and a second chance to earn real trust, Julia takes a job as a Harvey Girl at the El Tovar hotel, where she's challenged to be her true self.
Learning the trade of a master jeweler is hard work, but Christopher Miller takes pride in running his family's small shop and earning the respect of the people around him. But when he discovers that he has six weeks to buy his shop from his landlord before it is sold, he must find a way to save his grandfather's legacy.
United by the discovery of a legendary treasure, Chris and Julia find hope in each other. But when Julia's past catches up with her, doubt creeps into Chris's heart. Can he really trust her and her stories?
Learning the trade of a master jeweler is hard work, but Christopher Miller takes pride in running his family's small shop and earning the respect of the people around him. But when he discovers that he has six weeks to buy his shop from his landlord before it is sold, he must find a way to save his grandfather's legacy.
United by the discovery of a legendary treasure, Chris and Julia find hope in each other. But when Julia's past catches up with her, doubt creeps into Chris's heart. Can he really trust her and her stories?
My Thoughts
I love stories that mention the Harvey Girls and Harvey Hotels that period of history sounds so intriguing. This was such a good story filled with secrets, adventure and suspense. Kimberley Woodhouse does a great job in the setting of this story. She makes you feel like you are at El Tovar and at the Grand Canyon. You can also tell that she has done extensive research and you read all the little details that brings the story to life as you read. Her detail to jewelry making was fascinating.
The characters were believable and relatable. You can feel the struggle that Julia has within herself. Chris is the master jeweler is such a fantastic leading male character. He has this huge heart and pride for his family's business that he will do anything to make sure that legacy does not die. Of course there is romance between Julia and Chris and it was a perfect match. He helps her see what love is.
There is a good thread of faith throughout this story. God loves us despite any circumstances and He pursues us to follow and love him unconditionally. It was a great reminder for us readers. I love when christian fiction books gives us these reminders.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. This is part of a series and I do recommend you reading the first one just so you know some of the characters that pop up in this one plus you will get to know the location a bit more if you read them in order! I can't wait for the next book.
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really enjoyed it
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Kimberley Woodhouse is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than twenty-five books. A lover of history and research, she often gets sucked into the past and then her husband has to lure her out with chocolate and the promise of eighteen holes on the golf course. She loves music, kayaking, and her family. Her books have been awarded the Carol Award, Holt Medallion, Reader's Choice Award, Selah Award, Spur Award, and others. A popular speaker/teacher, she's shared with over 1,000,000 people at more than twenty-five hundred venues across the country. Married to the love of her life for three decades, she lives and writes in the Poconos where she's traded in her hat of "craziest mom" for "coolest grandma." Connect with Kim at: www.kimberleywoodhouse.com
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Welcome to the Blog Blitz for Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers by Hope Bolinger, Linda Fulkerson, Rowena Kuo, and Carrie Schmidt, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers Authors: Hope Bolinger, Linda Fulkerson, Rowena Kuo, and Carrie Schmidt
Publisher: Scrivenings Press LLC
Release Date: October 11, 2022
Genre: Nonfiction / Writing
Remember when Dorothy finally reached the Emerald City only to be halted by the Gatekeeper, blocking her hopes of seeing the Great and Powerful Wizard?
Each one is a barrier between you and a publishing contract.
But what if you understood what agents, editors, publishers, and readers really want?
If you’re struggling to get past the publishing gatekeepers, this book will give you a behind-the-scenes peek at how to win the heart of each type of publishing professional. In fact, Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers won’t just give you a peek—it will give you a guided tour. In this book, four publishing professionals—an agent, a publisher, an editor, and an influencer—share what it takes to unlock each “gate” within the publishing industry.
Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers is a must-have resource for all aspiring authors, and it offers insights to help multi-published authors as well.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub
Subscribe to the Publishing Gatekeepers newsletter and receive a tip sheet on 12 ways for getting past the gatekeepers.
EXCERPT
From the section on Publishers, written by Linda Fulkerson
Invest in Your Career
If your goal is to write the one book on your heart, then you should probably self-publish.Publishers are seeking career writers. Those who are willing to invest time, effort, and yes, evenmoney, to improve their craft and promote themselves and their books.
I’ve met a lot of authors throughout the years who were afraid to spend any money to improvetheir writing or build their platforms. But remember, anything in life takes time, effort, andoftentimes, money.
I have literally seen people in tears because some free shiny object they signed up for in orderto save a few dollars later turned out to be a disaster. Sometimes “free” costs too much.
Become a better writer
Writing is a skill. A craft. And it’s a craft that can be improved upon and developed. Many bookshave been written on the craft of writing. Set a goal of reading at least one such book permonth. Do the exercises. Practice.
Another great way to improve your writing skills is to attend classes, conferences, and takeonline courses. Learn from those with more experience than you. Study at the feet of abestseller. Take a successful author to lunch, if you can. Subscribe to newsletters and blogs ofsuccessful authors in your genre.
One of the most important things aspiring authors can do is read. Read. Read. Read. Don’t limityourself to just the genre you wish to be published in. Read in a variety of genres. Read classics.Read new releases that have hit the bestseller list. Read past bestsellers. Great writers arevoracious readers.
Seek feedback. One thing that has baffled me throughout my years in the publishing industry ismeeting a would-be author who has never requested feedback from his or her writing. Somethink because they made good grades in high school English, they can write a bestseller.Successful authors are perpetual learners. To become successful yourself, study the craft, learnfrom the masters, read, and get feedback. You’ll be well on your way to growing a great writingcareer, and you will definitely win the heart of publishers!
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Hope Bolinger is an acquisitions editor at End Game Press and the author of 21 books. She's contributed to 10 other books, in addition, including Getting Past the Gatekeepers. She loves to model, do theater, and get lost in the woods.
Connect with Hope by visiting hopebolinger.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Linda and her husband, Don, live on a ten-acre plot in central Arkansas. They are part of an RV ministry group and travel the country volunteering at various entities. Linda and Don have four adult children and eight grandchildren. In addition to kicking back in her recliner with a good book, Linda enjoys photography, travel, and spoiling her two dachshunds.
Connect with Linda by visiting scriveningspress.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Rowena Kuo is the CEO and Executive Editor for Brimstone Fiction, Brimstone Books and Media, and Brimstone Fire. With over 15 years of ministering to children, youth groups, young adults, women, and family groups, Rowena advocates for writers to build God-centered support systems consisting of people, perseverance, practice, and most of all, prayer. She has written for Christian Devotions, Written World Communications, Splickety, and the 168 Write of Passage. When not working on words or films, she is a full-time mom with secret aspirations for spaceflight.
Connect with Rowena by visiting www.brimstonefiction.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Carrie Schmidt is an avid reader, book reviewer, story addict, KissingBooks fan, book boyfriend collector, and cool aunt. She also loves Jesus and THE Story a whole lot. Carrie started the popular blog ReadingIsMySuperPower.org in 2015 and since then has had the honor of co-founding the Christian Fiction Readers' Retreat and JustRead Publicity Tours. In addition to these endeavors, she is a regular contributor to Seekerville and has written for magazines such as RT Book Reviews and Christian Market. Carrie now lives in Georgia with her husband, though her roots range from East Tennessee to Central Kentucky and northern Illinois.
Connect with Carrie by visiting readingismysuperpower.org to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a $40 Amazon gift card.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 12, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
About the Book
Book: Honor Bound
Author: Hallee Bridgeman
Series: Love and Honor, Book 1
Genre: Christian Mystery Suspense/ Military
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: September 6, 2022
It may seem odd to seek peace by moving to a war-torn African country, but for medical missionary Dr. Cynthia Myers, it provided a way to escape a shallow life of unearned wealth, a philandering fiancé, and a father now square in the public eye as vice president of the United States. At least here she knows her work and life have meaning. But all that is thrown into chaos when she fails to save the life of a local warlord's mortally wounded son.
With two members of his team badly injured and rebels in hot pursuit, Rick will have to draw upon all his strength and cunning to get her out alive . . . because he's beginning to think they just might overcome their differences and be able to make a life together.
My Thoughts
Okay moment of truth... I did not think I would like this book as much as I did. The cover intrigued me but I am definitely not a huge military themed reader however this book may just have completely changed my mind as it had me from the first page! I was completely enthralled with this story. You can tell that this author not only did her research but is very familiar with military jargon and environment. The book definitely starts out with lots of action and a fast pace that sets your heart racing not knowing what is going to happen to these characters. It does move to the romance part of the story towards the middle end of the book which was refreshing to read. Typically you have the love storyline right in the beginning but this one was not like that at all.
The characters were amazing! I was so involved in all of the characters that I really need to know what happens to some of them (hello second and third book!... ) Bridgeman really writes characters that were full of depth and while all of them seem to have a relationship in God they all have some past struggles or current ones that need a little bit more using of their faith muscle. The author did a great job at integrating a faith element throughout the story and it was strong in the theme of courage and faith.
I know some may not enjoy the ending as far as the characters go. I mean I can see how some may see Rick as too perfect and flawless but I saw him as the Rock for his team and later on for Cynthia. Cynthia on the other hand had to change her ways of thinking. I think part of her was stuck on the belief that it had to be her way or no way. You can't change someone else you have to accept them the way they are if you truly love them and I think she sees this at the end.
This was my first story by this author and it definitely won't be my last. Like I said before I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series!
If you enjoy military reads with suspense and romance then this is the pick for you! Go grab them now and if you have Kindle Unlimited they are available on there.
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really enjoyed it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
With nearly a million book sales, USA Today bestselling author Hallee Bridgeman writes action-packed romantic suspense focusing on realistic characters who face real-world problems. Her work has been described as everything from refreshing to heart-stopping exciting and edgy.
An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee and her husband finally settled in central Kentucky so they could enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Hallee’s oldest daughter is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, her middle son struggles as a hexagonal “autism spectrum” peg in this round world, and her youngest son fills the house with wooshes and bangs as he fights imaginary bad guys while wearing a Spiderman costume and wielding a Ninja sword.
When she’s not penning novels, you will find her in the kitchen, which she considers the ‘heart of the home’. Her passion for cooking spurred her to launch a whole food, real food “Parody” cookbook series. In addition to nutritious, Biblically grounded recipes, readers will find that each cookbook also confronts some controversial aspect of secular pop culture.
Hallee has served as the Director of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, President of the Faith-Hope-Love chapter of the Romance Writers of America, is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the American Christian Writers (ACW), and Novelists, Inc. (NINC). An accomplished speaker, Hallee has taught and inspired writers around the globe, from Sydney, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, to Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., and all places in between.
Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her. She prays her work here on earth is a blessing to you and would love to hear from you. You can reach Hallee at hallee@halleebridgeman.com
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About the Book
Author: Cindy Woodsmall & Erin Woodsmall
Genre: Amish Christian Fiction
Release Date: August 30, 2022
Eliza Bontrager and Jesse Ebersol have fallen in love and are determined to marry, despite the belief of their Amish community and respective families that there's a hidden curse--one that only shows up when an Ebersol and Bontrager marry.
Before the ceremony on the day of the wedding, Eliza's great-aunt Rose gives her a family heirloom quilt and tells her that she may use it to change one event in the past. Eliza appreciates the woman's heart, but she dismisses the strange conversation while keeping the beautiful quilt.
Several years later, mourning the loss of their third child, Eliza discovers her inability to deliver a healthy baby is genetic. Remembering her great-aunt's strange words, she decides that if she can go back in time and reject Jesse's proposal, she can save him the heartache of a childless marriage. Her sacrifice will allow him to marry someone else and raise a family. But once she puts her plan into action, she discovers the true impact of her decision--on Jesse and so many others within their community.
Before the ceremony on the day of the wedding, Eliza's great-aunt Rose gives her a family heirloom quilt and tells her that she may use it to change one event in the past. Eliza appreciates the woman's heart, but she dismisses the strange conversation while keeping the beautiful quilt.
Several years later, mourning the loss of their third child, Eliza discovers her inability to deliver a healthy baby is genetic. Remembering her great-aunt's strange words, she decides that if she can go back in time and reject Jesse's proposal, she can save him the heartache of a childless marriage. Her sacrifice will allow him to marry someone else and raise a family. But once she puts her plan into action, she discovers the true impact of her decision--on Jesse and so many others within their community.
My Thoughts
Well this definitely was an interesting read and premise. I mean a time travel Amish fiction book who knew it could happen?! Obviously the Woodsmall's did and they did an amazing job with the story. While it kept with the traditional Amish quirks you would see and expect from an Amish novel it definitely morphed into something completely unexpected. I must admit the beginning of the story moved very slow for me and I almost gave up on it but then it all changed and became a book you had to find out what happened next!
The main characters Eliza and Jesse were well written and they definitely do things that are out of the norm for their community. They ignore the supposed curse they have within their families and marry pretty much against all odds. Of course this brings forth a series of events that leave them in devastating emotional struggles. This is when the "What if's" come into play in the story and the authors take you into twists and turns I definitely was not expecting. It truly was fascinating!
Overall if you enjoy the unexpected and can endure a slow beginning I definitely suggest this read! You may just enjoy Amish Fiction all over again!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Very good!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Cindy Woodsmall is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
Happy Friday!!
I hope everyone had a great week! It's another First Line Friday hosted by Reading is My Superpower. Today my first line is coming from new to me author Hallee Bridgeman. This book Honor Bound so far has me captivated and I don't want to put it down. Only a few more chapters and then I am done! I want to finish it but I don't want it to end! LOL Reader problems... Here is my first line.
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Now it's your turn! Grab the book closest to you and drop the first line in the comments.
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About the Book
Book: Mama Sing My Song
Author: Amanda Seibert
Genre: Christian Children's Fiction
When we look at our children, we see those one-in-a-million grins, their crinkled noses, and sweet eyes looking back at us, which soften our hearts. God designed those babies uniquely, and Mama, Sing My Song is a celebration of all that is lovely and true about your child. Let your little ones know they are safe, loved, and cherished in your family.
This affirming picture book for 4- to 8-year-olds celebrates the love between parent and child; encourages kids to embrace God's love for them; provides kids the security and love they're seeking; and highlights all that is good in our little ones. With snuggly illustrations of animal families, Mama, Sing My Song features unique presentation pages to write your little one's name, plus space to journal special messages and a prayer for your child; includes a free downloadable song; is a great gift for baby showers, Mother's Day, Christmas, and birthdays; and has a beautifully designed cover, perfect for displaying in a nursery or in a gift basket.
Hold your little ones a little closer as you share this timeless, heartfelt love note with them.
My Thoughts
This book is so beautiful! Not only is it beautifully illustrated but it is equally beautifully written. My kids love when I get kids books to review because they get to be part of the review process and provide their input. My little ones (7 and 8) definitely loved this book. My older ones enjoyed it but you know older kids they don't want to own up with the lovey gushy stuff. I loved the message that God has designed them to be unique and be completely loved and cherished!
This book will definitely make a great gift to a new mom, baby shower or a book to dedicate to each of your little ones for their memory boxes. I definitely recommend you grab this one.
My Rating: 5 Stars/LOVED it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
About the Book
Author: Grace Hitchcock
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Series: Aprons and Veils
Release Date: August 29, 2022
Publisher: Valmont House
When an engagement of convenience becomes anything but convenient . . .
Forced into a betrothal with a widower twice her age, Charleston socialite, Sophia Fairfield is desperate for an escape. But, while her fiancé is away on business, he assigns his handsome stepson, Carver, the task of looking after his bride-to-be. Much to her dismay, Sophia finds herself falling in love with the wrong gentleman—a man society would never allow her to marry, given Sophia was supposed to be his new stepmother. The only way to save Carver from scandal and financial ruin is to run away, leaving him and all else behind to become a Harvey Girl waitress at the Castañeda Hotel in New Mexico.
Carver Ashton has had his life planned out for him since birth, but when he encounters Sophia Fairfield, he glimpses a new life—apart from his overbearing stepfather's business. But, when the woman he loves disappears before he can express his devotion, Carver abandons all to find her. However, his stepfather has other intentions for Sophia and will stop at nothing until she is his bride . . . even if it is against her will
Forced into a betrothal with a widower twice her age, Charleston socialite, Sophia Fairfield is desperate for an escape. But, while her fiancé is away on business, he assigns his handsome stepson, Carver, the task of looking after his bride-to-be. Much to her dismay, Sophia finds herself falling in love with the wrong gentleman—a man society would never allow her to marry, given Sophia was supposed to be his new stepmother. The only way to save Carver from scandal and financial ruin is to run away, leaving him and all else behind to become a Harvey Girl waitress at the Castañeda Hotel in New Mexico.
Carver Ashton has had his life planned out for him since birth, but when he encounters Sophia Fairfield, he glimpses a new life—apart from his overbearing stepfather's business. But, when the woman he loves disappears before he can express his devotion, Carver abandons all to find her. However, his stepfather has other intentions for Sophia and will stop at nothing until she is his bride . . . even if it is against her will
My Thoughts
The Finding of Miss Fairfield is the newest by Grace Hitchcock and part of her newest series Aprons and Veils. I really enjoyed this story and I think it was a great start to the series. I love stories that have the Harvey Girl theme to them. Not sure why but I do!
In this story we meet Sophia who has always followed the rules that have been almost forced upon her by her parents. When her father decides to make a business deal regarding her and marriage to a much older man she decides that she's had enough. Sadly she doesn't think much of herself in looks or capabilities but I really enjoyed her growth throughout the story. Her relationship with Carver was quite lovely! Carver was a great leading man and had his own swoony moments.
This story definitely has a little bit of everything. I found that it had a good amount of suspense and there was a part I didn't expect to happen. I am not going to tell you so it will be surprising for you as well. This was a good story. It was entertaining and there was definitely a faith thread woven into the story.
Overall I thought the story was good and can't wait for the next installment.
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really Liked it!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Grace Hitchcock is an award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives in Baton Rouge with her husband, Dakota, son and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com
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