Sunday, October 1, 2023

Redemption in the Wilderness

I lived in Kentucky for a few years in the 1970s. I discovered parks and historical sites. I visited museums that explained its past. A State with beautiful countryside and green, green grass. I was delighted to read thar this book was based there.

Two sisters left on their own in the wild country of Kentucky. The oldest sister is doing her best to keep them alive and safe. But it appears they had a guardian angel in Henry. Henry tried to live a solitary life but when he saw the two sisters in need, he had to do something.

This story was quite an adventure. Margaret, her sister, and Henry learned about trusting others and God's promise that he is always with you.

I received this ebook to review from Celebrate Lit.

Skip to

About the Book

Book: Redemption in the Wilderness

Author: Andrea Byrd

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 19, 2023

Two sisters alone on the Kentucky frontier…love is the last thing they expect to find.

After the death of their parents during the Hard Winter, Margaret and her sister have struggled to survive. Between her mother’s dying wish that Margaret protect her sister, and the nagging sensation that they are not alone, guilt and worry are her constant companions. And if someone is following them, is their watcher friend or foe?

Henry Donegal can’t afford roots, not with the pain and guilt of the life he’s left behind, or the memory of the drink that once threatened to consume him. But his solitary life as a long hunter in the wilds of Kentucky finds a new path when he happens upon a young woman digging a grave for her own mother. Unable to pull himself away when he realizes that she and her sister are on their own, he begins to provide anonymous aid. But when the women truly need him, can he risk leaving his solitary life behind to step in and fill the void?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Andrea Byrd is a Christian wife and mom located in rural Kentucky, who loves to spend time with her family in the great outdoors, one with nature. Often described as having been born outside her time, she has a deep affinity for an old-fashioned, natural lifestyle.

With a degree in Equine Health & Rehabilitation gathering dust and a full-time job tethering her to a desk eight hours a day, Andrea decided it was time to show both herself and her children that it is truly possible to make your dreams come true. Now with over 1,000 contemporary Christian romance novellas sold, Andrea is pursuing her passion of writing faith-filled romance woven with a thread of true history.

More from Andrea

One of my favorite aspects of being a historical fiction author is learning new tidbits of information with each novel I pen.

Not only have I always loved learning, but I also harbor a deep passion for novels that incorporate real places and events. In Redemption in the Wilderness, I was blessed with the opportunity to research the beginnings of Harrodsburg, KY. This town was founded in 1774 as Harrodstown by James Harrod. What began mainly as a civilian fort with the building of Fort Harrod has endured more than 200 years of Kentucky’s rich history. Tourists and locals alike can still visit a replica of Fort Harrod today. And, you, yourself, can visit the original fort in Redemption in the Wilderness.

Beyond historical places and events, I also always find myself on a search engine with the strangest little inquisitions. Such as… What plants are native to Kentucky? When do said plants bloom? And which can be used as a natural remedy for this particular ailment? With this novel, I found that feverfew, a native Kentucky wildflower, was so aptly named because early settlers used this native plant to reduce fever. I cannot wait for you to see what role it played for the characters in Redemption in the Wilderness.

Blog Stops

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 19

Holly’s Book Corner, September 19

Alena Mentink, September 20

Pause for Tales, September 20

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 21 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 22

For Him and My Family, September 22

Texas Book-aholic, September 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 25

lakesidelivingsite, September 26

Karen Baney Reviews, September 26

Bigreadersite, September 27

Connie’s History Classroom, September 28

Cover Lover Book Review, September 29

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, September 29

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 30 (Author Interview)

Avid Reader Nurse, September 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 1

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Andrea 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/2813b/redemption-in-the-wilderness-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Flower Quilter

Barbara was convinced she could not do anything right. But Melvin proved to her that she had a gift of creating flower quilts.

A delightful story that clearly sends a message that GOD gives each one of us special gifts. Barbara was convinced she couldn't quilt. But she could create beautiful flower gardens.

A sweet story of the first bloom of love. With a little help from Barbara's mammi and dawdi, she found what she never expected while visiting in Indiana.

Melvin felt responsibility for his sister and his niece. He felt responsible for his parents' accident. This weight of responsibility prevented him from finding real happiness.

Both Barbara and Melvin gave so much of their time and love to others. It was time for their dreams to come true.

I received this from Celebrate Lit to review.

About the Book

Book: The Flower Quilter

Author: Mindy Steele

Genre: Amish/Christian Fiction

Release Date: September, 2023

Barbara Breaks from Amish Tradition to Express Her Artistry

Full of faith, hope, and romance, this new series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.

Barbara Schwartz was born into a family of quilters, but she would rather eat dirt than partake in another quilting frolic or sew on another binding. When her parents send her to Indiana to help her grandmother in her quilting shop, she finds herself amongst a very different community. It’s only one summer and then she will be back in Kentucky where she belongs.

Melvin Bontrager’s world stopped six years ago when his parents died. Now when his only means of providing for his widowed sister and niece is threatened, Melvin finds his landscaping business disappearing too. When spring delivers a newcomer who is immune to his salty moods, Melvin does something he has never done before, accepts help.

What blooms is the last thing Barbara ever expected, and everything Melvin could ever want.

About the Author

Mindy Steele is the award-winning author and bestselling author of over a dozen novels and novellas in Christian fiction. Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele has been writing since she could hold a crayon on the wall and lives in northeastern Kentucky—where many of her stories are set.

More from Mindy

The Story Behind the Story

I’ve connected with many wonderful readers since my debut in 2021 and while attending my first multi-author and reader event in Shipshewana, Indiana, I was blessed to finally meet many of them in person. I connected with my amazing assistant, my Mississippi fishing buddy, and the golden girls who have been with me from the beginning. God handpicked each of these women and I am so thankful he did.

I knew before leaving home I would not be writing about Shipshewana or the touristy areas considering I love our small rural communities, but you know what they say about thinking you know everything. . .

I was charmed at a little Bed and Breakfast and further charmed by Bridgett the owner. After touring the Amish Market and a few other memorable sites, my husband and I spent an afternoon with our dear friends Barb and Mel. Barb insisted I see her favorite place, the Krider Fair Gardens. Being a lover of flowers and gardening myself, I was entranced. I walked over every inch and stored its details in my heart. I even called my mother.

I quickly learned the quilt gardens were signature in Indiana, sprawling along the Pumkinvine Trail and covering multiple counties. From May to September, thousands come to photograph the designs that change each year. There is even an app for that now.

I had learned so much about Amish gardens and greenhouses from my neighbors who had family-owned greenhouses which I wrote about in An Amish Flower Farm.

It was also a no brainer that I would include quilting into the story. I love to quilt, much more than my dear sweet heroine needless to say.

I was especially happy to include the quilt shop, just a block down from The Blue Gate and the owner was thrilled her shop was the inspiration to Anna Beechy’s quilt shop.

Writing about two different Amish communities was a fun challenge made easy thanks to dear friends from both. Especially Anna Mae, the best garden tea maker north of Ohio who never let my questions bother her.

What was most memorable about writing this book over all others?

I had no desk!!!

I love writing about new things not explored yet, and well…my writer heart was ready to start before we even got home. Often, I let an idea percolate a few days, but this story unfolded like a favorite re-run and I knew all the words. It was time to get writing, but suddenly we had covid and hours turned to days and weeks. It was a scary time as my husband struggled with it terribly, but we got through and then Hurricane Ida struck the south and my husband was called up. I decided to travel with my husband and son to deliver Fema Relief.

My family needed me, and I needed to write this book!!! So, in pure Mindy fashion, I packed up my notepads, extra fine tip pens, and did both.

The draft of The Flower Quilter was written in the back of an old semi that leaked like a strainer as we delivered trailers and supplies from Kentucky to the hardest hit areas of Mississippi and Louisiana nonstop for nine days.

I hope to never try that again, but no matter what we encountered, those gardens of Indiana, keep popping up and adding a little sunshine to the chaos around me. God sure knows how to keep beauty in focus when everything gets turned upside down. He also knows how to take our worst traits and turn them into something remarkable.

I hope you love this story and my take on the gardens as much as I did. Thank you for being part of the tour!!! And may God bless and keep you!

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, September 26

The Avid Reader, September 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 27

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 28 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Texas Book-aholic, September 28

She Lives To Read, September 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 30

Mary Hake, September 30

Connie’s History Classroom, October 1

Christina’s Corner, October 1

The Book Club Network, October 2

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 4

Books I’ve Read, October 4

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 5

For Him and My Family, October 6

Elly Gilbert, October 6

Cover Lover Book Review, October 7

Simple Harvest Reads, October 8 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Holly’s Book Corner, October 9

Splashes of Joy, October 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mindy is giving away the grand prize package a $25 Amazon 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/282a3/the-flower-quilter-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Summer in the Spotlight

Levi was young when he was told by his father that his words didn't matter. This impacted his whole life. He kept to himself and said very little.

Kelsey had much to say. She adored the theatre and performing on stage. She felt connected to her deceased grandmother there. Together they were very active in the community theatre in

Prince Edward Island.

Disaster strikes the theatre she loves. Kelsey is determined to save it. Kristy felt that by saving the theatre she would gain her grandmother's approval. This almost impossible task becomes more of a reality with Levi's help.

Can Levi and Kelsey escape their hidden demons? Will the theatre survive? Can they risk their vulnerability for a chance of love?

#SummerinheSpotlight

#LizJohnson

#Revell

I received complimentary copy from Revell.

Ephesians 4:29 ESV /

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Liz Johnson

Liz Johnson is the New York Times bestselling author of more than a dozen novels, including Beyond the Tides and The Last Way Home, as well as the Georgia Coast Romance and Prince Edward Island Dreams series. She works in marketing, makes her home in Phoenix, Arizona, and daydreams of returning to PEI. Learn more at www.lizjohnsonbooks.com.

On Moonberry Lake

Cora didn't have plans to return to Moonberry Lake any time soon. She had many fond memories of spending her childhood there. She also had questions of what really happened so many years ago.

She was completely taken by surprise when she inherited Moonberry Lake Lodge.

Cora met some quite interesting people in town. How can you not love Kitty and her care for others? Or Widgy and her dog? As you read this wonderful book, the residents of Moonberry Lake become family. I loved getting to know them. You will, too.

I hated to say goodbye when I finished this delightful book. It was touching. It was funny. If I could, I would move to Moonberry Lake. How about you?

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Revell.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Holly Varni is a native Minnesotan of strong Norwegian descent, who was raised in the Lutheran Church that Garrison Keillor made a career depicting. Between the lutefisk, grumpy grandparents, and crazy neighbors who mowed their lawn wearing pajamas, the seed to becoming a storyteller was planted. Though she, her husband, and their three sons live along the Central Coast of California, her beloved Midwest roots continue to haunt everything she writes. She hosts the Moments from Moonberry Lake podcast where she shares more stories of her beloved characters. Learn more at www.hollyvarni.com.

Melody Carlson - A Royal Christmas

One day you are going to college and hardly making it payday to payday. The next you are a Princess. Unreal.

Adelaide wasn't so sure but she made the journey to a country called Montovia to meet a man who said he was her father.

A new country. A new family. Danger was threatening her very existence.

A cute holiday story that was full of surprises.

I wish the story didn't end so fast. I wanted to know a little more about Adelaide's future. There is room for a sequel. I hope so.

#ARoyalChristmas

#MelodyCarlson

#Christmas

I received this from Revell to review.

Monday, September 25, 2023

Into the Fire

I was sitting on the edge of my chair as I finished this book. A brand new series by Irene Hannon was just what I needed this week. I knew I was going to enjoy this one right away.

Bri, an arson investigator, was called in to investigate a mysterious fire that resulted in the death of a former co-worker. Marcus was an ATF Agent who was also assigned to the case. Was this meeting by chance or was it GOD'S plan?

I loved the relationships they both had with their families. Marcus was raised by his wise and loving grandmother. I would love to have a relationship like that when my grandchildren get older. Bri had a very close connection to her siblings. They had each other's back.

Bri was determined to solve the case. With Marcus' help they were getting closer to getting the answers they needed. But Bri and Marcus were starting to feel the heat.

I received this early copy to read from Revell Books.

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work.

The Prayer Jar Devotional: Forgiveness

This is a new devotional written by one of my favorite authors. This is the second of Wanda Brunstetter's devotionals from The Prayer Jar.

Forgiveness is a challenge for many. The hardest is to forgive yourself. I was part of a 7 day Forgiveness Challenge. It gave me much to think about.

This quote is from Wanda Brunstetter 's new devotional : The Prayer Jar Devotional Forgiveness

I am praying to forgive the ones who have harmed me in the past. I don't want or need to carry that load.

“One of the most important things we can do to help forgiveness flourish in our lives is to pray.” ~Wanda E. Brunstetter, The Prayer Jar Devotional Forgiveness.

#forgivenesschallenge #devotionals #forgiveness #wandabrunstetter.

It can be purchased here:

https://www.barbourbooks.com/the-prayer-jar-devotional-forgiveness/?fbclid=IwAR1ZdAn9mHQp0DDI8SDj3PbAahzseV8i6_iK0PC_fMpCqFCswB_vLqgcoj0

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Amish Harvest Time

I was excited to read this new book in the The Amish Bonnet Sisters Set. The family has become like friends. I don't want them to end. Samantha Price knows how to write her characters like they are family.

I was pleasantly surprised to see a couple of the characters showing more of their sensitive side. With time, people sometimes will change.

I live in Michigan where apples are being harvested. We plan on going this coming week. I wish that their orchard and shop were close by and not just written in a book.

Wilma has a new friend. It was unexpected but she realizes that Red has become very important to her. Of course, Red is a dog that keeps Wilma company.

I'm glad the series is not other yet. I look forward to the next chapter.

I received this ebook to review from Samantha Price.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Lost and Found

Birdwatchers Micah finds himself in a dilemma. He goes against the Amish community rules to rescue a friend in trouble. But was she really?

Trudy thought she was Micah's best friend. She had her doubts. She is a clever young woman. She was a independent thinker and a great birdwatcher.

I loved how the book was written. There are sections where discovered birds were described in detail. Trudy's interpretations and descriptions are the best. Her personality shines through.

Micah is making a big mistake if he doesn't take notice of what is right in front of him. We often takes things for granted. It could be too late.

There are a familiar characters if you have read any previous books about this community. I enjoyed Hank and Billy with his fainting goats. They have their quirks but they are loveable.

Really enjoyed this!!

I received this book to review from Revell Books.

#RevellReads

#SuzanneWoodsFisher

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Suzanne Woods Fisher

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the award-winning, bestselling author of more than 30 books, including The Moonlight School, Anything but Plain, The Sweet Life, and The Secret to Happiness, as well as the Three Sisters Island, Nantucket Legacy, Amish Beginnings, The Bishop's Family, The Deacon's Family, and The Inn at Eagle Hill series. She is also the author of several nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and Amish Proverbs. She lives in California.

Saturday, September 16, 2023

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows

I had to read this. A book about Christmas! A book that is written by my favorite writers! Even though it is summer when I read this, they took me the most wonderful time of the year.

Jody Hedlund is from Michigan, my Home State. She knows something about winter. Her story - Claiming the Cowgirl- contains characters I am already familiar with in her previous books. I loved that.

Lacy Williams' book is titled Doctor's Snowflake Bride. What a great title! How can you not love a lawman with the name Jed? I did.

Misty B. Beller always delivers a story that captures my imagination and heart. Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend had me a little nervous at times. Heidi found herself in a dangerous situation that only Two Stones can get her out of.

A great collection for any time of the year.

I received this advanced copy to review from Celebrate Lit.

About the Book

Book: Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows – A Marriage of Convenience Anthology

Authors: Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 26, 2023

From bestselling and award winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn’t her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn’t cover stranded women, but he can’t leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren’t convenient at all.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller

Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones’ plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi’s character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.

About the Authors

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over forty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.

USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams is devoted to bringing her readers heartwarming love stories about cowboys and the women that tame them.

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

More from Misty

When Friends Join Forces…Magic Happens!

For me, joining with my good friends Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams resulted in Christmas magic!

Ever since I was young, Christmas stories have held a special place in my heart. The charm and warmth they exude, coupled with the enchantment of the holiday season, are a captivating combination I find irresistible. Can you relate?

I’ve also long been a HUGE fan of Jody Hedlund and Lacy Williams. I’ve read so many of their books over and over!

Joining them for this Christmas novella collection has been a dream come true for so many reasons. And not only are these three marriage of convenience stories set on the Rocky Mountain frontier (my favorite place!), each of these novellas is an exciting extension of the current series we’re each writing.

Jody’s novella is the finale to her Colorado Cowgirls series. We meet both the hero and heroine of this Christmas story back in book 4. You don’t have to have read Jody’s series to fall in love with them here though!

Lacy’s novella tells the story of a character from a new mail order bride series she has coming soon. This prelude is a fantastic taste that will have you swooning as you eagerly await the rest of the books!

My own contribution features Two Stones, the Coulter family’s best friend from the Brothers of Sapphire Mountain Ranch series. I love having the chance to tell his story, even though he’s not ‘officially’ one of the brothers. 

If you’ve read any of these series—or if you just love Christmas books like I do!—you’ll definitely want to read the novellas in Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. It’s our collective holiday gift to you, the readers—intertwining familiar settings and characters with the joy and love that the festive season brings. We hope these tales bring you the same warmth and joy we’ve felt while penning them.

Blessings!

Misty