Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Small Town Danger Collection

About the Book

Book:Small Town Danger

Authors: Mary Alford, Liz Bradford, June Foster, Therese Heckenkamp, Cynthia Hickey, Gina Holder, Edie James, Ann Malley, J. Carol Nemeth, and Colleen Snyder

Genre: Christian/Clean Romantic Mystery and Suspense

Release Date: April 25, 2023

More than lives are in danger when small town tranquility meets heart pounding suspense in this collection of ten brand-new novels from some of the genre’s most explosive romantic suspense authors!

Join Mary Alford, Liz Bradford, June Foster, Therese Heckenkamp, Cynthia Hickey, Gina Holder, Edie James, Ann Malley, Carol Nemeth and Colleen Snyder as mystery, suspense, and faith combine to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Sins of the Past – A Hope Island Securities Book by Mary Alford

Ten years earlier, Janine put him away for murder. Now Bennett’s back in her life with a challenge—help me find the real killer.

Swept Away – Tracking Danger Book Two – A Search and Rescue Novel by Liz Bradford

When a SAR mission ends with a murder, Josh and Chloe must fight rising tensions before they get swept away.

Danger in Cranberry Cove by June Foster

When Julie Wilder joins local lawyer Lucas Ethridge in uncovering clues of who murdered their high school friend on the beach fifteen years before, phone calls from their deceased classmate are unnerving. After incriminating evidence turns up, can Lucas and Julie discover the killer’s identity or will they suffer the same fate as their friend?

Escaping Illusions – A Frozen Footprints Book by Therese Heckenkamp

All she wants is a new beginning, but a man famous for deception is the last person she should trust.

A Place to Hide by Cynthia Hickey

Is there nowhere to hide? Will Marley and Dirk escape a fan who always seems to be one step ahead of them?

Handmade Mayhem – Addie Masters Mysteries Book 1 by Gina Holder

“Who Knew DIY Could Be So Deadly.”

Hidden Sins – A Redemption Creek Romantic Suspense by Edie James

Redemption Creek, where sometimes justice needs a helping hand.

Debt of Honor by Ann Malley

Where’s the honor in loving your best friend’s wife? Or keeping the secrets that may get her and her baby killed?

Death Goes to School by J. Carol Nemeth

The rewarding profession of teaching: it could get you killed.

Twisted by Colleen Snyder

She’s eighteen. A visitor to a tornado-stricken town in need of help. Half of the residents think she’s a saint. While the other wants her dead.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

I find an anthology is a great way to read new to me authors, and every one of these are writers whose work I hadn't read before. There are many authors who I will be reading more of their books in the future. I enjoyed the mystery associated with each of them. If you like who dunnits and want to see if you can figure out the culprit, pick up this collection for hours of red herrings, clues, and culprits receiving their punishment.

I received an advanced complimentary copy via the Celebrate Lit blog tour. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.

About the Authors

Liz Bradford didn’t always know she was a writer, but story ideas have always been a part of her life. When she finally took an idea seriously, she started writing and hasn’t been able to stop. She is a member of ACFW and ACFW-Louisville Chapter. Even though Liz’s heart yearns to live in the mountains of North Carolina, she and her husband live in southern Indiana where she homeschools their three daughters.

An award-winning author, June Foster is a retired teacher with a BA in Education and a MA in counseling. June began writing Christian romance in 2010 as she and her husband traveled the US in their RV. Her adventures provide a rich source of information for her novels. She brags about visiting a location before it becomes the setting in her next book.

To date, June has written over thirty contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels and novellas. June uses her training in counseling and her Christian beliefs in creating characters who encounter real-life difficulties yet live victorious lives. She’s published with Winged Publications. Visit June at www.junefoster.com to see a complete list of her books.

Her novel, The Inn at Cranberry Cove, won the 2021 Selah award for Romantic Suspense. It is available on Amazon in paperback, hardback, and eBook format.

Born in Australia but raised in the US as a homeschooled student, Therese Heckenkamp has been writing stories since before she could spell. She lives in Wisconsin and is an award-winning author of five Christian romance and suspense novels as well as a non-award-winning mother of five energetic kids. As a busy stay-at-home mom, Therese writes whenever she can manage (and sometimes when she can’t). She dreams up new stories mostly at night when the house is—if she’s lucky—finally quiet. It’s no coincidence one of her novels is called Sleep Deprived.

Cynthia Hickey is a multi-published and best-selling author of cozy mysteries and romantic suspense. She has taught writing at many conferences and small writing retreats. She and her husband run the publishing press, Winged Publications, which includes some of the CBA’s best well-known authors. They live in Arizona and Arkansas, becoming snowbirds with two dogs and one cat. They have ten grandchildren who keep them busy and tell everyone they know that “Nana is a writer.”

Gina Holder is an indie author and stay-at-home mom. She’s had an infatuation with books for as long as she can remember. She loves sharing uplifting messages from God’s Word and introducing readers to new and new-to-them authors on her blog at http://storiesbygina.wordpress.com. When she’s not writing, Gina enjoys playing the piano, cooking, reading, watching Hallmark mysteries, and solving “escape room” puzzles. She’s been a member of ACFW for several years, and loves growing in her craft as an author. She published her debut novel in 2017. Gina lives in Colorado with her husband and daughter.

Edie writes faith-filled romantic suspense featuring adventurous women, and the heroic men who love them.

Don’t let the smile fool you. Edie spends far too much of her time considering murder, mayhem, and former Navy SEALS with private jets and high tech toys.

She lives within sight of the real-life town that inspired the Hope Landing series with her firefighter husband, one creaky senior border collie and three mischievous cats.

Ann Malley is an empty-nesting, homeschool mom looking for fun. Don’t let the Snap Chat filters fool you. She writes clean romantic suspense when not dabbling in short, sassy romantic comedies.

A native North Carolinian, J. Carol Nemeth always loved reading and making up stories since childhood, and began writing in junior high school. As a young adult, she worked in the National Park Service and served in the US Army where she was stationed in Pisa, Italy. While there she met the love of her live, Mark Nemeth, also an Army veteran. They’ve lived in various locations including North Yorkshire, England. Now living in West Virginia, they enjoy RVing and traveling to research for Carol’s books. They have two grown children, a son-in-law, a daughter-in-law, three amazing grandchildren, and a lab fur baby named Holly. Carol is a member of ACFW and an Amazon Bestselling author. She writes Christian historical and contemporary romantic suspense and has published twelve novellas and full-length novels.

Colleen K. Snyder has always had a passion for writing. She authored two previously published books: Journey to Amanah: The Beginning (1991) and Return to Tebel-Ayr: The Journey Continues (1993) (B&H Publishing). She is the author of the “Collin Walker Series” of books. She lives on a “ranchette” in California and is the (very) junior ranch hand. She serves on her church prayer team and exercises a ministry of encouragement. Colleen has worked as a factory line worker, pharmacy technician, USAF missile systems analyst, nanny, teacher and whatever else the Lord required. Her story is for His glory, always.

Mary Alford is a USA Today bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can’t put down. Her titles have been finalists for several awards, including the Daphne Du Maurier, the Beverly, the Maggie, and the Selah. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog.

Blog Stops

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, August 28 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Book Reviews, August 28

Texas Book-aholic, August 29

For the Love of Literature, August 30 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 30

The Book Club Network, August 31

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 1

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 2

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 4

Blogging With Carol, September 5

Book Looks by Lisa, September 6

Artistic Nobody, September 7 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, September 8

She Lives to Read, September 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary 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/27a6d/small-town-danger-celebration-tour-giveaway

Saturday, September 2, 2023

The Starlet Spy

About the Book

Book: The Starlet Spy

Authors: Rachel Scott McDaniel

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction

Release Date: August, 2023

Hollywood Star Turns Spy

In 1943, movie producer Henrik Zoltan approaches Amelie Blake under the guise of offering the Hollywood star a leading part in his upcoming film, but he has a more meaningful role in mind. Amelie’s homeland of Sweden declared neutrality in the war, but Stockholm has become the “Casablanca of the North.” When top-secret atomic research goes missing in Sweden, the Allied forces scramble to recover the files before they fall into Nazi hands.

The United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS) needs someone who’s subtle enough to spy on the Swedish elite without triggering suspicion. Who better than the “all beauty, no brains” Scandinavian starlet? Fluent in three languages and possessing a brilliant memory, Amelie loathes being labeled witless but uses the misconception as her disguise. She’s tasked with searching for the crucial files, but Fynn Ristaffason keeps getting in her way. Is the charming shipping magnate after the missing research? Or does he have other reasons for showing up at her every turn?

With the Gestapo on her heels, Amelie must rely on her smarts in addition to her acting skills to survive a world of deadly spies and counterspies.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

Set in WWII, Amelie Blake is recruited to locate some highly sensitive plans that could turn the tide of the war. Amelia is the perfect candidate since she is an actress and hides behind the persona of a dumb blonde when she is actually highly intelligent and has a photographic memory. With red herrings and plot twists, you are sure to be caught up in this story.

It’s unusual to have a spy story with humor, but Rachel Scott McDaniel did an excellent job in showing what happens when there is misinformation and assumptions. I loved how she was told that Finn Ristaffason was a huge fan, and it would be easy to win his trust. But, what Amelia discovers might be different.

I highly recommend this clean war romance for readers of all ages. It is a part of the Heroines of WWII, but it can be read as a standalone.

I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and Net Galley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. Rachel can be found online at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com and on all social media platforms. Her work is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency. Rachel resides in Ohio with her husband and two children.

Setting The Starlet Spy in Sweden

Hej! If you’ve ever been to Ikea, then you know that’s the Swedish greeting for Hello! Prior to writing The Starlet Spy, my knowledge of the Swedish culture was limited. It seemed I wasn’t alone. Early last year, I held a poll on my social media asking if anyone had ever read a book set in Sweden. A sweeping majority said no.

Since all of my previous books are set in the United States, this is my first novel with an international setting. So I immersed myself into research. I read books about the country, watched videos, followed Swedish Instagrammers to learn more about the language. And let me tell you, I totally fell in love with this Scandinavian world. It is now on my bucket list to visit because it’s just that gorgeous. I wrote The Starlet Spy with a romantic adventure vibe. I wanted to take the reader on a tour of this amazing country, from the classically beautiful Stockholm, to the quaint fishermen city of Malmo, to the ancient streets of Sigtuna—one of Sweden’s oldest villages—to the brilliant Northern Lights in the Lapland region.

Not only did I want to paint the scene of these various places, but I also wanted to introduce the Swedish culture. Tucked within the pages of The Starlet Spy, the reader will find traces of Scandinavian folklore and legends, which was super fun to explore. But to be honest, my favorite inclusion of Swedish culture was incorporating a traditional dance—the Hambo! It’s such an interesting and unique dance, and I may have been trying to coax my husband into trying it with me for an Instagram Reel, but so far, no such luck! Though I have no problem getting him to enjoy Fika with me. Fika, my friends, is a coffee break, or simply coffee. Just as the British favor their tea, the Swedes are adamant about their fika. So I can most definitely relate.

If all this intrigues you, I welcome you to read The Starlet Spy. It’s set in 1943, which was a pivotal time for Sweden during World War II. If you’ve read my previous stories, you know how much I love to weave as much true history into the chapters. This book has by far the most!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 29

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 29

lakesidelivingsite, August 29

Lily’s Book Reviews, August 30

Where Faith and Books Meet, August 30

Melissa’s Bookshelf, August 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 31

Back Porch Reads, September 1

annette_reads_daily, September 1

Texas Book-aholic, September 2

Cathe Swanson, September 2

Book Looks by Lisa, September 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 3

Christina’s Corner, September 3

Connie’s History Classroom, September 4

Kristina Hall, September 4

The Book Club Network, September 5

Pause for Tales, September 5

Happily Managing A Household of Boys, September 5

Cover Lover Book Review, September 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 6

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 7 (Author Interview)

The Book Nook, September 7

Betti Mace, September 8

Labor Not in Vain, September 8

Just Your Average reviews, September 8

Simple Harvest Reads, September 9 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, September 9

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, September 9

Blogging With Carol, September 10

For Him and My Family, September 10

Holly’s Book Corner, September 11

Lights in a Dark World, September 11

Books I’ve Read, September 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon eGift 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/278bf/the-starlet-spy-celebration-tour-giveaway

Friday, September 1, 2023

Robbing the Races

About the Book

Book: Robbing the Races

Author: Tabitha Bouldin

Genre: ChristianHistorical Mystery, Fairytale retelling

Release Date: July 4, 2023

The Legend of Locksley might just get Robin and Marian killed.

Robin Locke’s career as a jockey is far more successful than he ever expected. When a groom is found dead in the stables, Robin sets out to right the wrongs of Locksley. Unfortunately, Robin’s rival is dead set on proving him guilty!

Marian Silvers sets out to find a once in a lifetime story that will ensure her career as a reporter withstands the masochistic attitudes of the paper where she works. As she and Robin dig into the groom’s murder, she finds another side to the legend of Locksley…a side he would prefer stay hidden forever.

While the murderer wreaks havoc in their small town, Marian and Robin find that all is not as it seems. And then they become the next targets. They just need to evade the killer long enough to bring him to justice… and perhaps find love along the way.

This 1940s Robin Hood retelling features swapped character roles and a race against the clock.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

This was a fun retelling of Robin Hood and Maid Marian that’s set during WWII. Jockey Robert (Robin) Locke has returned to his home racetrack amidst scandal that occurred in California. Quickly finding himself embroiled in the murder of a stablehand and theft of a prized horse, he is considered a suspect. New reporter Marian Silvers has something to prove and partners with Robin in the investigation.

Robin and Marian make a great team as neither of them are afraid to get to the bottom of this mystery even when they are threatened. They are each driven by different desires, but both agree that justice must be served and the culprit caught.

I recommend reading this interesting romantic mystery retelling for readers of all ages. Readers will enjoy seeing other characters from the original Robin Hood story.

I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

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

More from Tabitha

As a kid who grew up with Disney films, the Robin Hood cartoon fascinated me. I wanted to know what made Robin Hood such a cavalier thief. I understood his mindset of “steal from the rich and give to the poor” but why did he need to steal?

My uncle David had a saying for years. He’d say, “Steal from Peter to pay Paul and David stays broke.” What he meant was, no matter how hard he tried, he never managed to get ahead in life. Uncle David had a saying for everything and they always made sense in a convoluted sort of way.

In Robbing the Races, I didn’t want to try and persuade Robin that he had a right to steal, I wanted him to have a reason to think it was okay, then show him otherwise. I love heroes who need a little nudge back onto the straight and narrow. Robin sees families suffering, and when he can’t provide for them himself and he sees others who have an excess of money, he decides to take it to help the less fortunate.

Kind of like the two wrongs don’t make a right, Robin learns that his version of justice might help for a moment but that does not excuse his actions. He’s still wrong.

Robin is not the most forgiving character, but he was certainly fun to work with.