Tattered Wings by Kassie Angle | release + review

Annnddd we have another blog tour.

Wasn't it like last year when I said I was going to do less blog tours and that type of post? Yet here I am again. I digress. There's just so many epic books out there. How can I not support other Indies? <3

Anywho, moving on. Because today I get to fangirl about one of my favorites books so far this year. Maybe my favorite book so far this year. I mean, yes, I've read almost 20 books in 2020 to date, but still. Still a compliment. ;)

I give you—Tattered Wings by Kassie Angle. <33 You can find Kassie's post with more details about the book and the blog tour and whatnot here. (Heck, even if you aren't that interested in the book, go check out this gal's blog. The total bomb. :D)

About the Book

Some scars can’t be seen. And some can’t be hidden.

Layla Trent’s life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own—and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who’s definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn’t even know she was carrying?

Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best—a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What’s left for a man to live for when he’s lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?

Some scars can’t be hidden. But some don’t need to be.

Goodreads • Amazon • Paperback

Review

When I say I jumped at the chance to read and review this book, know that I mean that in the strongest sense possible without meaning that I actually physically jumped on something.

I mean, c'mon. A girl with dreams of a painful memory she can't place. A soldier who loses all that gives his life meaning. Dozens of little instances that just made me smile. And there's a dog—a darling Golden Retriever. Does this book have my name written all over it or what? (Again, not literally.)

First, there's Layla. I love that child. Although, to be honest, I went into this book planning to love Andrew's story the most. I didn't really care about Layla's story too much. But by the epilogue, I loved her story just as much. Maybe more.

I love her personality and her spunkiness. I love her heart. I love her parents and her dog and her life. Reading about her dreams and all that comes to light through them... it broke my heart in the best way possible. I might have cried.

The whole service dog aspect of this story and all that surrounds it was very nice to find. That's something I don't see much in fiction, so I really appreciated that being shown in an accurate way.

And then, Andrew. As I said, I expected to love his story—and I wasn't disappointed. I cried. A lot. I actually probably cried as much or more over Isaiah as I did over Andrew. My dudes. <333

I did find myself wishing we would have seen more of Cpl. Reyes and his crowd in earlier chapters. As it was, the reader doesn't know him super well until THAT happens. Although there was plenty of impact as it was, it could've been more impactful if we were more attached to him before it happened. I also, for the majority of the book, was under the impression that Andrew's dad wasn't around, because he's like...never mentioned. So unless I missed it somewhere, I would've liked to known more about his family earlier on.

The writing could use some polishing, but overall, I found it to be engaging, in a laidback style. The story itself was heartfelt, well detailed, and easy to follow for the most part.

So, to sum things up:
- girl with fragments of a memory she can't grasp
- a family finding healing through a hurting dog
- a visit to a cemetery plot
- ARMY RANGERS, Y'ALL
- wounded soldiers
- family of said wounded soldiers binding together
- epic military setting
- one heck of an epilogue
- go read this book

Take-away: Your wings aren't broken. They might be tattered, but they'll still fly.

*wanders off wiping tears*

About the Author

Kassie Angle is a teenaged Christian author, cowgirl, therapy dog trainer, stereotypical INFJ, and Army girl to the core. Her first love, i.e. debut novel, O to be Like Thee, swept her unsuspectedly into the world of indie authors. She tries to use her stories to fill the silences in literature, helping more people understand the world of the Army and showing how God heals the broken-hearted. You can find her and more of her writing at SoldierGirlStories.com.

have you read Tattered Wings? 

No Chance Meeting by Jaye Elliot | review + release

I'm thrilled to be taking part in the blog tour for Jaye Elliot's first contemporary romance, No Chance Meeting. I've been dying to read this book ever since I stumbled across the synopsis, like, years ago on Goodreads. While I ended up not enjoying it as much as I expected, it was a really sweet story.

Read on for my review of the novel, as well as an extra special giveaway! You can find the rest of the blog tour schedule here.

About the Book

Alex Jennings is done with life. After losing her brother in Afghanistan, everything has collapsed around her. Getting laid off from her day job and failing in her art career, she has nowhere left to turn. She once had faith to believe that all things would work together for good, but that faith died with her brother. Now she just wants the pain to end.

Riley Conrad served thirteen years in the military until three bullets sent him home. After a year and a half of physical therapy and scraping together a living, all he wants is to live a simple life and perhaps even open the coffee shop he dreams about. However, the weight of failing his parents’ expectations doesn’t make it easy, and working as a bartender isn’t getting him anywhere fast.

Could a “chance” meeting between Alex and Riley set them both on the path God always intended?

Available now from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, and more!

~ 20% of all February sales will go to the Mighty Oaks Warrior Programs ~

Add to Goodreads

 

Review

** may contain spoilers, as I'm utterly filled by this story and its characters, having read the majority of this book in the last 24 hours **

Let me start off by saying that I've been wanting to read this book for ever so long. Given that, along with the fact the book deals with suicide and depression and there's numerous Marine references, I expected to love it. Buutttt I didn't. Now I'm trying to figure out why. :P

For the most part, it's a slower story. There's no massive happenings occurring throughout the story, other than an unexpected twist here and there (the one beyond the 85% mark, now that's something I didn't see coming). A tale of falling in love, achieving freedom from past fears and sins and tragedies, and holding to faith through all else.

Both of the main characters were sweet, likable, and realistic, with plenty of quirks and attributes to keep them original. I adored Riley. He's so adorable. Epic Marine guy, with a dream of a coffee shop. Add to that his long hair and the fact that—for once—the love interest actually isn't six feet four? I approve. 10/10.

Alex was a fun character, too. I love the name, her artsy side, and the fact that she's awkward, not crazy pretty, and wears glasses. I found myself struggling to connect with her and feel compassion toward her pain, but I loved seeing her and Riley's relationship and the way they complimented each other and encouraging each other to pursue their dreams.

One of my favorite things about the book was the frequent coffee references. These people chug as much caffeine as I do, and I loved it. xD  Add to that the dreams of a coffee shop and the vibe of the whole idea. Loooove.

The book is filled with a cast of other complex characters. From Mindy and Zach, to Luke and Kat, to Riley's and Alex's parents and grandparents, all the way down to the well-known artist, the landlady, and the pastor and his wife. A well-crafted cast of people I look forward to hearing more about in future books.

Oh, and the whole ordeal with the punk kid and how it reappeared when I least expected it? Love, love, love. Probably one of my favorite parts of the book, actually.

Unfortunately, I didn't exactly finish the book with hearts in my eyes. There were a few things that were seemingly left hanging and either weren't wrapped up/were left undone for awhile before presenting themselves again later in the plot. For example, Grandpa Joe. After meeting him the first time, I expected to see more of him, often, from there on out, which wasn't the case.

All things considered, I'm giving No Chance Meeting a solid four star rating. It deals with topics that are often avoided or mishandled in Christian fiction, so I greatly appreciated the story in that respect. A lovely read!

About the Author

Jaye Elliot is an award-winning author, country girl, and hopeless romantic at heart. She loves a good hero and will always sigh happily during the lights scene in Tangled. She writes from her home in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, which she shares with three cats she considers her kids. When not writing romance novels, she pens fantasy and adventure stories as Jaye L. Knight.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

Giveaway #1

To celebrate the release of No Chance Meeting, Jaye is giving away a reader bundle that includes a signed copy of NCM, a hand-painted watercolor bookmark, a coffee mug, and a bag of Dove chocolates! Enter using the form below. U.S. entries only. Not open internationally.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway #2

For her second giveaway, Jaye is offering 3 ebook copies of No Chance Meeting. Open internationally!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

have you read No Chance Meeting? anyone else in love with that cover? <33 

Wedding Score by Amanda Tero || Book Review

|| Synopsis

Most girls dream of their wedding days. Except me. I’m too busy practicing piano and being the live soundtrack for everyone else’s weddings to think about my own. I’ve survived most of my twenties with harmonious chords and pleasant days.

So why is it that now, at twenty-seven, a discordant feeling presents itself? Is there a solid solution to loneliness when there is absolutely no potential husband on the horizon?

A contemporary Christian short read.

|| Review

In my minimal experience with books that will supposedly divulge The Secret Methods to Living Happily as a Single Woman, they're all pretty much the same. Sometimes they're helpful, sometimes they're not. But rarely do I find myself internally exclaiming (Yes! Exactly!) when the topic of singleness and how it feels and how to deal with it is presented.

I was pleasantly surprised to find, within the pages of Wedding Score, struggles and thoughts that I could relate to. The story was good. The message was encouraging. I did feel like it could've been longer—with another fifty pages or so, the issues could've been delved into a bit deeper without rushing the closing—but it is a novella, so I can overlook that.

One thing that I disagreed with was the main character's friend's break-up. She's dating the man of her dreams, his parents think they're moving too fast, so they just...call it off and break up? I can see taking a step back and seeking God's will if you're experiencing doubt, but to just break up walk away all brokenhearted? Like, what? Even though (*spoiler*) this was resolved to my liking, (*end spoiler*) I didn't really understand the reasoning behind it or why it was even included in the story.

Also, Stephanie's cousin's relationship with his girlfriend. At the beginning of the story, Stephanie doesn't even know that he's seriously interested in this girl, but within a few weeks he's contemplating popping the question?? Not a deal breaker, just something that kind of threw me off.

I've read nearly all of Amanda Tero's books and stories to date, and I will continue to. This one just...wasn't a favorite in my eyes.

3.5 stars

Amazon  ||  Goodreads

Widow's Heart by Willowy Whisper {Book Review + Blog Tour}

Welcome, ladies and gents, to a stop on Willowy Whisper's blog tour for her newest standalone novel, Widow's Heart. All the info and my review is down below. And, of course, the lovely cover. :D

// synopsis

He only wanted justice.
She only wanted peace.

Gabe Anderson didn’t come to San Belfry to kill. He didn’t even know he’d left a widow until it was too late. But it wasn’t his fault. He had done the only thing he could do, because he had to find those men. He had to uncover their masks. He couldn’t let his brother’s killers go unpunished.

Essie Kincaid didn’t even see it coming. She didn’t know the truth until it was too late, until her husband was dead. Now she’s faced with the wrath of an entire town. She’s an outcast for the second time, and as her world sinks deeper into an abyss of madness, she must fight for the only thing she has left . . . her life.

As the two are thrown together in a devastating plight, it doesn’t make sense for them to fall in love. Too much has happened. Too much lingers between them. Yet as their bruised souls begin to mend together, other forces are already forming to keep them apart. Does their last hope of happiness even stand a chance?

Paperback ~ eBook ~ Goodreads

// review

Oh my stars, what a ride.

Miss Willowy's books never fail to take me on a wild, heart-pounding, emotion-engaging journey of love, mystery, loss, and the overpowering grace of God. Widow's Heart was no exception.

From the addictive writing style, to the precious and intricate cast of characters, to the fascinating mystery, this deeply-woven novel tugged me in from the first pages. I devoured every word within 24 hours. Although I had some suspicions concerning the identity of the final outlaw, I had absolutely no idea who took the money. Such a superb twist.

The raw, deep pain displayed within the pages is so real you can feel it, and the love and grace that covers all so wholesome and healing. The faith of the characters touched and encouraged my heart.

The romance wasn't as much a part of the story as I'd expected it to be, but I loved it so much. So beautiful, heart-rending, and just oh-so sweet.

While not my favorite book by this talented young author, this novel was everything I'd hoped it to be and I'm so glad I got to read it. Basically, I just adored Gabe. <33

A solid 4 stars!

(Content: Several deaths, by gunshot wounds, hanging, or a slitted throat. Some kissing and suggestive comments.)


**I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. A positive review was not required.** 

// author bio

WILLOWY WHISPER is a young, Christian fiction author. She lives in a beautiful place called West Virginia, nestled between mountain and field. She is the author of ten novels, nine of which are published, and numerous short stories. She enjoys playing the piano, the guitar, and the ukulele; painting; photography; and graphic design. She is also a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, an incurable romantic, and a passionate dreamer. To follow her, visit her blog at www.willowywhisper.com.

Blog ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ YouTube

are you a fan of Willowy's books? what's your favorite historical mystery/suspense?

I Don't Dance // Blog Tour + Book Review

Greetings, readers! I'm here today with the blog tour for the newest release of my sweet author friend, Jesseca from Whimsical Writings for His Glory. Yup, this little gem releases today!

I suppose we could begin by drooling over this lovely cover and graphic... <33

Synopsis

Ty and Jen have been friends for nearly as long as anyone can remember. But when Ty goes off to college and leaves her behind, he has to face the reality that he cares for her as more than just a friend.
As graduations approaches and with only one summer left before he begins basic training, Ty must make a decision. Military life is never easy; is it fair to force it on the one he loves?
In the midst of wrestling with the question and coming to the realization that summer is quickly drawing to a close, Ty struggles to face questions he cannot answer, and is forced to examine his own heart.
Is it possible that God has a future for him with Jen? Or will the summer close with only memories of days gone by?

Their relationship would be old fashioned. But that was okay. Because old fashioned and whimsical fit perfectly with a southern summer.

Amazon || Goodreads

Review

Oh my goodness, where do I even begin?! My critique partner stepped out of her domain in the world of historical and into my beloved genre—adorable summer contemporaries!

If you'd told me this time last year that I was even going to be writing this review, I would have laughed. "Jess, writing an old-fashioned romance? I think not." But here we are, on release day for I Don't Dance. A sweet lil' book that holds a special place in my heart, all the way down to the country-music-hinting title and a setting that I'm familiar with.

So yes, this darling little book is a love story, about two young people who find themselves falling in love in a whirlwind summer, under a sunset sky. A time of sibling chaperones, ice cream dates, and making the most of their time together.

The romance is sweet and precious and everything a romance should be. Ty is the honorable knight in shining armor. (Or...uniform. Whichever you prefer.) Jen is the sweet girl who's best friend is falling for her. Mike is the hilarious sidekick, full of laughs and jokes and excellent advice. Not to mention I'm 109% for him getting his own story...

The faith themes were so real and well-done they brought me to tears. Their questions, their doubts, their above-all-else faith and trust in God. It was inspiring. <3

This book is summertime and Scotty McCreery and Krispy Kreme donuts. It's uniforms and pickup trucks. It's holding hands and dancing in the rain and falling in love.

It's beautiful and sweet, and I love it oh-so much. <3

Author Bio

Jesseca is a daughter, sister, and a child of God. Her days are spent reading, cooking, spending time with siblings, or playing piano. And writing, of course! At an early age words fascinated her, and her love for the printed page has only grown. She lives with her parents and seven siblings in the sunny state of Kansas, and she’s convinced there’s no place like home.

Blog || Instagram || Goodreads || Facebook || Pinterest 

Giveaway

First Place will receive a paperback copy of I Don’t Dance + Scotty McCreery’s Clear as Day album (U.S. winners only) 

Second place will receive an e-book copy of I Don’t Dance + $5 Krispy Kreme gift card

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour

Thursday, June 21st

Soleil Bourdon//Review, Book Spotlight - Reviews By Soleil

Faith Potts//Review, Book Spotlight - Stories by Firefly

Janelle Martin//Review - The Ramblings of a Bookworm

Friday, June 22nd

Laura//Review - Beautiful Things

Chloe//Review - Purely by Faith Reviews

Rebekah Eddy//Review, Author Interview, Book spotlight - Rebekah’s Remarks

Molly Anne//Review - Set Apart for Him

Abigail McKenna//Review - Novels, Dragons, and Wardrobe Doors

Saturday, June 23rd

Angela Watts//Book Spotlight - The Peculiar Messenger

Kaylee H.//Book Spotlight - Keylee’s Kind of Writes

Kellyn Roth//Review - Reveries

Kate//Book Spotlight - Twin Thoughts

The Rebellion {Book Review + Blog Tour}

Happy Thursday, readers! Welcome to one of the last stops on Livy Jarmusch's blog tour for The Rebellion, book-two in the Tales of Tarsurella!! 

I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning to finish this darling book. I can promise you, it's a series you don't want to miss! <3 

Synopsis

Something is brewing. Like the far off rumble of a train in the distance, a rebellion is stirring. A cry for change arises in the midst of a traditional monarchy, where King Addison has inherited the throne. Who are the underground troublemakers? What is stirring their defiant banner and demand for change? Find out in The Rebellion! (The Tales of Tarsurella #2)

Vanessa Bennett lands her dream job working at the Palace in Tarsurella. She struggles to balance everything on her plate: life in a new country, stressful deadlines, crabby co-workers, college classes at the local University, and blossoming feelings of romantic adoration toward her boss–King Addison. Keeping up with her To-Do list, while trying to earn respect in Addison’s male-dominated administration, presents its challenges. Nevertheless, she can’t help but fight a reoccurring thought and the excitement rising with it: is Addison interested in her?

Addison is adjusting to his new role as King. Rumors of a rebellious uprising among the youth in Tarsurella intensifies, as acts of violence and protest break out across the city. Addison is determined to uncover the hidden instigator who fearlessly blogs democracy-driven ideals with a secretive pen name. Will Addison discover and expose the fiery rebellion leader? Or will his efforts fail to stop the rebellious thoughts spreading like wildfire, causing a heartbreaking rift in his divided nation?

My review of book-1!

Review

Precious. Charming. Adorable. Unique. Happy. Suspenseful. Real. Just a few words that come to mind when I think of this beauty of a book. <3

While I enjoyed "The Coronation", the first book in the series, I adored "The Rebellion". I'm not sure what made the difference for me, other than I loved the faith journeys among the princesses. Their faith was evident in book-1 as well, but it was so much more real and hopeful in this one. (I wasn't exactly happy with the outcome of a few plots from book-1, but I was nearly squealing with delight when I finished this gorgeous hunk of paper. <3)

Speaking of plots... Just, wow. There is seriously SO many things going on in this book, I don't know how I keep it all straight in my head. (Yet, I do, and it's not confusing?) The rebellion, the riots, the romances, the family, the aftermath of the first book... But it all works together so nicely and I was pleased with the outcome of it all.

Of course, with so many different plots, we have a lot of characters. I repeat, A LOT of characters. Again, they're not difficult to keep track of (after I remembered who's who from the first book, haha) and they all have a purpose and a story.

King Addison and Vanessa—I love them so much!! Their intertwining love stories and life stories were so real and lovingly woven together I couldn't help smiling over them. The challenges of a relationship with the king of a monarchy were, in my opinion, accurately presented and well-done.

Princess Bridget and Liam—*happy fangirl moment* Did I mention that I love Liam? I didn't? Because, y'all, I love Liam. These two had their rocky moments as well, but...gahh... <3

Princess Chasity and Hanson—I know, I know, they're not really a couple (not for lack of shipping on my part *ahem*), but I so enjoyed their plot as well. I was a bit disappointed with how things ended for them in The Coronation, but this book held hope and friendship for my peoples. ;)

Then, of course, we have the other siblings. Hope (loved her story), retired king Steve, Asher (my heart is breaking <33), Jillian, and adorable little Millie and Willie. Not to mention the Akerlys, the Kanobis, Kennetic Energy, and Clark's family. All the characters were so realistic and life-filled!

My one negative would be that the book ends without the reader finding out what happens to Mr. Fletcher and what the outcome is with Mr. Akerly. (Apparently those answers can be found in Regal Hearts though...hmm...) There's also some head-hopping, something which usually bothers me, but somehow it works with Miss Jarmusch's writing style!

So yes. Go read this book and then come hang out with me while we eagerly await book-3. The title is making me squeal already... <3

**I received a e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.** 

Amazon // Goodreads

Author Bio

Livy Jarmusch is a twenty-something author, singer, and songwriter. She enjoys crafting YA fiction that is pure, lovely, inspirational, and of course, entertaining! When she's not writing, you can usually find her playing guitar, blogging, drinking peppermint tea, connecting with new friends, planning her next trip to Disney, or pinning images of Europe and Golden Retriever Puppies.

Blog // Facebook // Instagram // Pinterest // Twitter

Dagger's Sleep + Dissociate {A Dual Book Blog Tour}

Greetings, readers! Yes, I'm back...just unofficially. ;) Expect lots of pics and memories to be shared later this week!

Today I'm sharing a book spotlight and review of two recently-released indie books in the fantasy genre with Tricia Mingerink (a fav author!) and Sarah Addison-Fox's (an author I want to give a try!) dual-book blog tour. :D

Synopsis

A prince cursed to sleep. A princess destined to wake him. A kingdom determined to stop them.

High Prince Alexander has been cursed to a sleep like unto death, a curse that will end the line of the high kings and send the Seven Kingdoms of Tallahatchia into chaos. With his manservant to carry his luggage and his own superior intelligence to aid him, Alex sets off to find one of the Fae and end his curse one way or another.

A hundred years later, Princess Rosanna learns she is the princess destined by the Highest King to wake the legendary sleeping prince. With the help of the mysterious Daemyn Rand, can she find the courage to finish the quest as Tallahatchia wavers on the edge of war?

One curse connects them. A hundred years separate them. From the rushing rivers of Tallahatchia’s mountains to the hall of the Highest King himself, their quests will demand sacrifices neither of them could imagine.

Amazon || Goodreads

Review 

What a ride, y'all.

The course of this book is like a river, dotted with waterfalls of adventure and rocks bearing labels like 'pain' and 'intrigue'. (That's basically the extent of my creativity analogies. Stop laughing.)

The plot was adventurous, but the insane, heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat excitement was kind of come-and-go. Some parts were upbeat and thrilling, while others were more laid-back and comfortable. The storyline was entertaining, and the retelling aspects subtle and nicely done. I totally suspected the Jadon/Daemyn plot twist, though. ;) The romance was sweet and endearing, drawing me in more than other aspects of the story. And the allegoric hints were very nicely done!

The setting was interesting and unique. The Indian-tribe feel, the seven kingdoms, the mountains and rivers and bridges. It was different and lovely—and really relatable to this mountain girl. ;) Many of the names felt familiar to me, such as Cumber Gap (Cumberland Gap), Tuckawassee (Tuckasagee), Cheyandoah (sounds like Shenandoah, unless I'm pronouncing it wrong), and Kanawhee (Kanawha Valley). Not sure if it was intentional or not, but that was cool. xD

Now, about the characters... Rosanna was pretty good, and I enjoyed her story. Daemyn was FABULOUS and I loved him so much. Alex...I'm still not sure what to think about him, as I was really annoyed with his character until nearly the 40% mark. He somewhat redeemed himself, but not enough for him to be a favorite. Berend (THE PUNS <3) was great, as were Zeke and Isi (hard-core shipping those two).

I don't read much fantasy, and the whole thing with the curses and gifts and Faes threw me off for awhile, but I eventually got a grasp on what was going on with everything. (Basically, the resurrections confused me, because my mind doesn't work well in a realm where such things just commonly happen.)

All in all, it was a well-written book with a solid storyline. In my opinion, it wasn't as good as The Blades of Acktar, but because this author is a favorite, I'm sure I'll be reading more of the retellings in this series. So, after all that, I'm going with a 4 star rating. It was good, but not amazing. I liked it, but I didn't love it.

**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.** 

Author Bio 

Tricia Mingerink is a twenty-something, book-loving, horse-riding country girl. She lives in Michigan with her family and their pack of pets. When she isn't writing, she can be found pursuing backwoods adventures across the country.

You can connect with her on Facebook, Pinterest, Goodreads, Twitter, Instagram, and her blog.

Synopsis

Freedom begins with finding the truth.

Amidst the turmoil caused by Smyth’s arrest, Celeste is stuck in limbo, stripped of her citizenship, with no choice but to flee to a peaceful Kyraenean hideaway with the tumultuous Amaya Mason.
When bounty hunters threaten the local orphanage, Celeste and Amaya must work together and fight. Even if it means risking what they cherish the most.

His plans in tatters, his career in jeopardy, Mick Haynes is forced to leave Kyraenea with the enigmatic Torrance Kyle, the agent he still can’t trust.

Torrance is good at lying, and even better at hiding his pain, but is he strong enough to deal with the consequences of betraying his own father?

Can Celeste accept the truth, accept her place in the Haynes family or will lies chain her to the past and destroy her chance at a new life?

Amazon || Goodreads 

(The first two books in the series, Disowned and Dissemble, are also available on Amazon.)

Author Bio

Sarah Addison-Fox is a New Zealand-born home-schooling mother of two who loves action-packed fantasy with strong heroines. She has an astonishing amount of nail polish, has all her creative writing credentials shoved in a drawer somewhere, and has a husband who, after 27 years, can still make her blush. When she’s not working on her Christian YA fantasy series', she can be found fangirling on Goodreads or sending GIFs on Twitter.

You can connect with her on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter, Instagram, and her website.

Have you read these authors? Favorite Indie fantasy?? :D 

The Pursued // Blog Tour + Book Review

Hello readers! I'm still technically on break, but today I'm dropping in with a blog tour for Willowy Whisper's latest release, The Pursued. :D

// Synopsis 

Fawn Wendell has no choice but to flee. Her life depends on it. She has no where to go, but that doesn’t matter. She has to disappear. She has to get lost, never to be found again, before her pursuer attacks.

Adam Preston loves his children. They’re all he has left. But with the ranch to run, is there any way he can give them what they need, especially when he’s hurting himself?

Jake Sumner returns to an old house, a place that arouses too many memories. If he decides to stay, he may have trouble on his hands . . . trouble a whole lot bigger than him.

Sadie is an injured, silent bird, locked in a cage she can’t free herself from. Her nightmares are real. The fear kills her voice. Will she ever fly again?

Add on Goodreads // Purchase on Amazon // Purchase on Blurb

// Review 

I'm not okay. After spending yesterday evening sucked into this book, staying up until the wee hours of the morning to read (I was legit reading while I brushed my teeth), and then awaking this morning and devouring the last 25% in just over an hour, I'm really not okay. 

This story wrenched my heart right out of my chest. It made me eat cake for breakfast—e-reader in hand, of course. My pulse has yet to return to normal, and my poor lungs not even know how to function. My heart hurt, I teared up, I stared wide-eyed, soaking up the words.

Am I exaggerating? Maybe in the slightest. But y'all, this book... <3

I've read all but one of this author's published works, and with every new book that releases, I think I've finally found a favorite. And then the next book comes out and it changes again. :P And yes, that happened here. Why? Sadie.

While I did love Fawn and Adam, Sadie and Jake were my favorite part of the story. The way he protected her, took care of her and looked out for her. Ahh! <3 It was seriously just the sweetest thing. Precious. I loved their story, so, so, SO much. I need a sequel with the two of them, m'kay? ;)

Fawn and Adam's story was darling as well. His backstory and struggles with guilt absolutely broke my heart, and at the same time he infuriated me. ("Just be honest and let healing come, man!") Fawn needed someone to protect her and love her and make sure she was taken care of. And, oh my goodness gracious, Betsy. She was the most precious child I do think I've ever read. So adorable!! <3

Also, the dual storyline. How does the author pull this off so well?! The two stories (well, four really) are not vitally connected. They probably could stand alone. But they're woven together so nicely, loosely drawn together in a darling story that tugs at the heartstrings. <3

As far as the ending goes...it did leave some loose ends hanging, which I personally would have liked to see the outcome off. *spoilers ahead* Like, was Fawn ever reunited with Mrs. Taylor? When/how did Jake learn that she was finally safe? Did Jake ever introduce Sadie to Brock and his family? Some other things were not explained. Like, how did Adam know Fawn was at the laundry? Where did the sheriff disappear to after showing up at the Preston ranch? *end of spoilers*

Aside from that, I adored the book. The Pursued is an amazing tale, with a lovely, simplistic writing style. I was dying to know how everything turned out, and yet I did not want it to ever end. <3

5 stars! Only because that's as high as I'm allowed to go. ;)

**I received an e-copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.** 



// Favorite Quotes 

Let the sky cry. Let it grieve with him. 

"Did you know that angels watch over us, Sadie?" 

There was a certain feel to it, this night. A calmness, maybe. As if the trees sang songs, as if the wind told tales. Even the sun, lowering across the horizon, blazed in shades more intense, more stirring, than ever before.

// Author Bio

Willowy Whisper is a young, Christian fiction author. She lives in a beautiful place called West Virginia, nestled between mountain and field. She is the author of nine novels, eight of which are published, and numerous short stories. She is also a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, an incurable romantic, and a passionate dreamer. To follow her, visit her blog: www.willowywhisper.com

Have you read any of Miss Willowy's books? Do you have a favorite? :D 

A Question of Courage // Review + Spotlight

*bounces in with squeals and grins* HELLOOOOO, BEAUTIFUL READERS!!! :D 

Y'all, the time has finally come. The book I have silently loved and adored and squealed over for months is finally being released to the world. (Okay, okay, so I was far from silent about it. I just haven't fangirled on here about it. *nods and grins*) 

My beautiful, amazing, talented, darling of a friend (not to mention critique partner <33) Miss Jesseca Wheaton, authoress extraordinaire, is releasing her seventh fictional work. I'll refrain from saying too much here, so I can squeal even more in the forthcoming review. But y'alllllll.... *heart eyes* It's so good. 

~ About the Book ~ 

A man. A decision. A destiny. 

Rafe Sullivan never imagined the war would come to his doorstep. But when Pearl Harbor is attacked and America's focus suddenly shifts to the pacific, he finds he can't ignore the problem anymore. 

Leaving the life he loves behind, he joins up to do what he does best. Fly. 

Yet, nothing could have prepared him for the horrors of war, and the struggle that is going on in his own heart. As an outstanding navy pilot, he is stationed on one of the few Pacific carriers. But could God be calling him to step out in faith, and go beyond the call of duty? 

Lily Wilson gives her all to help the hurting community around her. With the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the war is brought home to many American families. And as a nurse, she longs to be able to relive some of the suffering. Yet, her own grief is still fresh in her heart, and though she's made the decision to get on with her life, she can't seem to leave the past behind. When healing at last comes, the guard she placed around her heart slowly begins to crumble. 

But when she receives the news she hoped she would never again hear, can she trust that God’s plan is always right?

Arthur Warrington saw the Navy as an escape from the life he left behind. And it seems good for him. He is able to forge new friendships and distance himself from his past. But when his best friend makes a decision that rocks his world, he is left grappling with the question: what is true courage? 

Three lives. One War. And a search for the Courage to go on.

// Add on Goodreads // Preorder on Amazon // 

~ Review ~ 

(First, can we pause to admire that gorgeous cover? Utterly stunning and one-hundred-and-ten-percent fitting. Second, can we pause to admire that epic synopsis? This girl is skilled.)

To my knowledge, there has not been a thing Miss Wheaton has published that I have not read – whether that be available-for-purchase kind of published or posted-to-her-blog kind of published. I haven't read a story of hers yet that I did not enjoy, nor that did not touch me in some way. But...all that to say...  

A Question of Courage is my favorite of them all. Hands down. No other way to look at it. It's the top.

I honestly love so much about this book that I don't know where to start. But I must start somewhere, so let's start with the characters. Specifically, the POV characters. There's three of them, they're all connected, and it just flows, y'all. 

We have Rafe, the main character. He's charming and funny and handsome (trust me – he is) and AMAZING. If you've read A Question of Honor (book 1) or As in Olden Days (prequel to the series), you've met Rafe. To be honest, I wasn't too sure how I was going to like reading his story. I was totally a David fan – and I still am – but...Rafe, y'all. <33 

The second POV is Lily Wilson. *looks at A Question of Honor fans who are tearing up already* Yes, we get Lily's POV, and I loved it SO MUCH. Her story was beautiful, and it made my heart hurt, and... *hugs her* 

Lastly, we have the POV of Art, a new addition to the Questions of War cast of characters – and a very good addition, I would say. ;) Art and Rafe had me in torrents of laughter from there first meeting. The brotherlyness, the nicknames, the pranks. <33 Their farewell seriously left me in tears. 

The theme of courage is amazing as well. I hadn't really considered this, but I saw another reviewer point it out, and I totally agree. Courage is there in the book, it effects and touches and is at the base of every decision, every choice. But...it's not like "he had courage, so he could do this" or "she must be courageous". No, the theme was there, without being said. Implied without being in-the-reader's-face. And I believe that takes much skill and artful story-weaving, and Miss Wheaton pulled it off splendidly. <3 

(That whole paragraph didn't make a lick of sense. Basically the writer can't put what she's trying to say into words.)

So yes. This story is absolutely beautiful. It's simple and heartfelt, yet deep and powerful and I just... *collapses* I love it so, so, so much. The historical details are rich and vibrant, the characters are real and deep, the prose is totally gorgeous, and don't EVEN get me started on that ending. Needless to say, I spent a few minutes trying not to full-blown-sob and pulling myself together, and then promptly ordered Jess to stop trampling all over my heart. (She made no promises.)

5 stars, my friends. Only because that's the highest the rating system will let me do. If there were a 6, it would be 6. If there were a 7, it would... *ahem* Nevermind... 

P.S. Rafe is mine. End of story. 

~ About the Author ~ 

Jesseca is a daughter, sister, and a child of God. Her days are spent reading, cooking, spending time with siblings, or playing piano. And writing, of course! At an early age words fascinated her, and her love for the printed page has only grown. She lives with her parents and seven siblings in the sunny state of Kansas, and she’s convinced there’s no place like home.

~ Giveaway ~ 

Christmas Comes Early ~ Blog Tour // Two Reviews

Today I bring y'all a Christmas blog tour! Have fun reading about the books I'm spotlighting, and be sure to check out the other posts in the tour for more! :D 

 

Christmas time is here! Okay, so not quite yet. It's still over a month away, but that doesn't mean we can't start celebrating early, right? So today, we're celebrating the release of not one, not four, but eight new Christmas books! All written by Rebekah A. Morris. I'll be spotlighting and reviewing two of her books today and you can find out more about the others as you follow the tour.

About the Books

~ Christmas Delays and Other Short Stories ~ 

Three Christmas Stories from WWII

Christmas Delays

A doctor, called up for duty in the army, spends one more Christmas with his wife in an unexpected way after God's Christmas delays strand them in a small house with another family.

Peter's Christmas

Very mild weather might not feel like Christmas, but young, orphaned Peter and his older sister find the peace and love of the season with the Hampton family in spite of the sadness of war.

I'll be Home for Christmas

Grandpa recounts the memories of his first Christmas away from home during WWII.

~ Home for Christmas ~ 

Feeling that life is unfair when her father is killed in the front lines of France and she has to live with her relatives on a western farm, twelve-year-old Susanna Stanson runs away to the city. She decides that all will be well when she reaches her old home, but a severe snowstorm interrupts her trip.

About the Author

Rebekah A. Morris is a homeschool graduate, an enthusiastic freelance author and a passionate writing teacher. Her books include, among others, Home Fires of the Great War, The Unexpected Request, Gift from the Storm, and her bestselling Triple Creek Ranch series. Some of her favorite pastimes, when she isn't’ writing, include reading and coming up with dramatic and original things to do. The Show-Me state is where she calls home.

Reviews

~ Christmas Delays and Other Short Stories ~ 

Christmas Delays was a wonderful story of how God will throw 'delays' into our plans if He has something else in mind. I truly enjoyed reading Dave and Linda's relationship. They weren't 'kissy', but it was obvious that they loved and were devoted to each other. 5 stars! 

Peter's Christmas was so sweet! As soon as I read the first few lines, I recalled reading it last year on Miss Morris' blog. I enjoyed it just as much the second time around, and I totally need a follow-up on John and Virginia... *wink* 5 stars! 

I'll be Home for Christmas was another endearing Christmas story, although probably my least favorite of the three. The beginning felt a bit disjointed, but later on... <3 I'll always go for a brothers story. 4 stars! 

~ Home for Christmas ~ 

Aww, so sweet! That was seriously my thoughts when I finished reading "Home for Christmas." A look at WWII through the eyes of a hurting young girl, this was an enjoyable read that made me smile with its message of love. *mild spoilers* I did think the whole scenario of Susanna not recognizing Robert right away, even with knowing his name, was a bit far-fetched, but she is young and struggling with a lot, so...I could overlook that. *end of spoilers* 4 stars! 

Favorite quote: "Are you willing to let the love in?" 

Tour Schedule

November 13

Bookish Orchestrations – Introductory Post

Read Another Page – Book Spotlight from the author

Kaylee's Kind of Writes – Book Spotlight

Resting Life – Review and Excerpt

Perry Elisabeth – Excerpt

Rachel Rossano's Words – Book Spotlight and Excerpt

November 14

Read Another Page – Book Spotlight from the author

Odelia's Blog – Author Interview and Book spotlight

Bryce’s Creative Writing Corner – Author Interview, Review, and Excerpt

Counting Your Blessings One by One – Review and Excerpt

Perpetual Indie Perspective – Book Spotlight

November 15

Read Another Page – Book Spotlight from the author

Whimsical Writings for His Glory – Author, Review, and Excerpt

Maidens for Modesty – Author Interview and Review

The Destiny of One – Book Spotlight

Rebekah Ashleigh – Book Spotlight

Once Upon an Ordinary – Review

Stephany's BLOG Snippets – Book Spotlight and Excerpt

November 16

Read Another Page – Book Spotlight from the author

Laurel's Leaves – Author Interview

Stories by Firefly – Review

Claire Banschbach – Author Interview

Kelsey's Notebook – Review and Excerpt

Jaye L. Knight – Book Spotlight and Excerpt

November 17

Read Another Page – Book Spotlight from the author

Ruffles and Grace – Book Spotlight

With a Joyful Noise – Book Spotlight

Ordinary Girl Extraordinary Father – Review  

Bookish Orchestrations – Closing Post