Midnight's Budding Morrow (Regency Wallflowers #2) by Carolyn Miller from Kregel Publications [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780825446542
Kregel Publications

My thoughts: I found this story particularly moving. To consider the plight of women historically and their lack of worth, being unappreciated, taken advantage of at many levels, deceived and managed is hard as a women in today's free world to comprehend.

Snubbed at a society event and then later visiting at a friend's home of obvious wealth, our heroine finds herself "contracted" to become manager of the home for her friend's elderly father. Things run smoothly in the home under Sarah's management and yet it seems that some of the servants are at odds and try to undermine her.

Of course, the story needs a male lead and there is one. He is a bit of a wastrel and his father has a plan to reign him in. That plan includes marriage to Sarah.

The story only gets more interesting and conflicted. 

I found this to be a rewarding read and highly recommend it.

Other books I've reviewed by Carolyn Miller:

• Dusk's Darkest Shores
• The Captivating Lady Charlotte 
• The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey 
• The Elusive Miss Ellison 
• (novella) Joy To The World 

About the book: Can real love grow between a wallflower and an unrepentant rogue?

Sarah Drayton is eager to spend time with her best friend at her crumbling Northumberland castle estate. Matrimony is the last thing on her mind and the last thing she expects to be faced with on a holiday. Yet she finds herself being inveigled into a marriage of convenience with her friend's rakish brother.

When James Langley returns to his family's estate, he can't be bothered to pay attention to his responsibilities as the heir. War is raging and he wants only distraction, not serious tethers. But his roguish ways have backed him into a corner, and he has little choice but to obey his father's stunning decree: marry before returning to war, or else. Suddenly he finds himself wedded to a clever and capable woman he does not love.

Sarah craves love and a place to belong, neither of which James offered before returning to the battlefront. Now everyone around her thinks she married above her station, and they have no intention of rewarding her for such impertinence. It isn't until her husband returns from war seemingly changed that she begins to hope they may find real happiness. But can she trust that this rake has truly reformed?

When tragedy strikes, this pair must learn to trust God and his plans. Will they be destroyed . . . or will they discover that even in the darkest depths of night, the morning still holds hope?

Click here to read an excerpt.

About the Series: While most stories set in Regency England focus on the rich, the young, and the beautiful, award-winning author Carolyn Miller decided she wanted to give readers something different for a change. Her new Regency Wallflowers series follows the commoners, away from the hustle and bustle of 1810s London, out in the Lake District of England. She tells the stories of women who are slightly older and have few prospects for marriage, women who might be considered “wallflowers.”

Midnight’s Budding Morrow is the second book in the Regency Wallflowers series. The first book in the series is Dusk’s Darkest Shores.

About the Author: Carolyn Miller is an inspirational romance author who lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children.

A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English literature and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. She enjoys music, films, gardens, art, travel, and food.

Miller’s novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers. Learn more about Carolyn at www.carolynmillerauthor.com, or find her on Facebook (Carolyn Miller Author), Instagram (@CarolynMillerAuthor), and Twitter (@CarolynMAuthor).

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and shipped directly to winner by publisher or publicist. This is a Read With Audra blog tour.

The Debutante's Code (Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries #1) by Erica Vetsch

My thoughts:  I have such a good time when I read an Erica Vetsch book. Her writing style is delightful; and she captures the essence of each character's speech, actions, dress, personality, and flaws. She weaves a tale with touches of history and a bit of her own fiction embroidery to flesh it out.

As fiction, it is rich in the Regency period's social distancing and mores. Her characters stay within the set limitations of do's and don'ts, as well as acting and doing things a bit "out of the box."

When I first saw the title The Debutante's Code, I thought it was going to be about the rules of being a debutante and that which determines accepted behavior, dress, speech, and social standing. Little did I realize this was not what the title inferred.

I loved the mystery and how the story resolved. I look forward to more in the Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries series of stories. I rather expect to see more of the same characters in the upcoming books and just wonder where things will take them.

About the Book: Jane Austen meets Sherlock Holmes in this new Regency mystery series

Newly returned from finishing school, Lady Elin Thorndike is ready to debut in London society. Due to her years away, she hasn't spent much time with her parents, and sees them only as the flighty, dilettante couple the other nobles love. But when they disappear, she discovers she never really knew them at all. They've been living double lives as government spies--and they're only the latest in a long history of espionage that is the family's legacy.

Now Lady Elin is determined to continue their work. Mentored by her uncle, she plunges into the dangerous world of spies. From the glittering ballrooms of London to the fox hunts, regattas, and soirees of country high society, she must chase down hidden clues, solve the mysterious code her parents left behind, and stay out of danger. All the while, she has to keep her endeavors a secret from her best friend and her suitors--not to mention the nosy, irritatingly handsome Bow Street runner, who suspects her of a daring theft.

Can Lady Elin outwit her enemies and complete her parents' last mission?

Best-selling author Erica Vetsch is back with a rollicking, exciting new series destined to be a hit with Regency readers who enjoy a touch of mystery in their love stories. Fans of Julie Klassen, Sarah Ladd, and Anne Perry will love the wit, action, and romance.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions expressed are mine, alone and are freely given.

"The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady" by Sharon J. Mondragon from Kregel Publishing [Giveaway-USA]

CLICK HERE TO ENTER #GIVEAWAY

My thoughts:  I had no idea I would enjoy this book about a group of middle aged and older ladies in a knitting group making prayer shawls. It totally surprised me.

Characters who rub everyone the wrong way. Charmers. Sweet ladies. Young folks in difficulties. The whole gamut of characters was sprinkled through the story and life events that changed lives.

A slowly dying church, a group of ladies, the need of interventional prayer in the lives of folks in the community. The story is about the extent that this group touches the community and how their own personal lives evolve and change for the better.

I totally love this story and it is truly a wonderful piece of women's fiction.

About the book: A knitting group's change of scenery changes lives in unexpected ways

Margaret, Rose, Jane, and Fran had a good thing going: meet every week in the quiet of their peaceful chapel and knit prayer shawls. No muss, just ministry. That is, until their pastor boots them out of the church in his last-ditch effort to revive the dwindling congregation.

Uptight Margaret isn't having it. Knitting prayer shawls where people can watch is the most ridiculous idea she's ever heard of, and she's heard plenty. Prayer belongs in the church, not out among the heathen masses. How are they supposed to knit holiness into these shawls if they're constantly distracted by the public? But with no choice, the others embrace the challenge. They pack their knitting bags and drag Margaret--grumbling the whole way--to the mall with them. She can't wait to prove them all wrong when it fails miserably, and show the pastor that she always knows best.

Without the familiar mold the group has been stuck in, their own losses, pain, and struggles rise to the surface. And the people and situations they encounter every time they try to sit quietly and knit are taking them a lot further out of their comfort zone than they ever imagined. Can they find the courage to tackle the increasing number of knotty issues they learn about in the community--or will the tangle be too much to unravel?

Read an excerpt - click here

About the author: Sharon J. Mondragon's debut is warm and delightful, full of real laughter, grief, and personality. It beautifully illustrates the power of women across generations to reach people for Christ.

Sharon J. Mondragon is not just a nice lady who knits. She’s the author of award-winning fiction that takes you to the place where courage and kindness meet.
Like some of the characters in The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady, she was once content to live well within her comfort zone. At the age of 19, however, she realized that she would not have much to show for such a life. She accepted the challenge and recklessly prayed for adventure.

The ensuing years as an Army spouse and the mother of five wildly individual children were filled with both thrilling and devastating moments, undergirded by the faithful hand of the God who inspired the prayer. The Army years are over, but the adventure continues in Midlothian, Texas where Sharon lives with her husband, her laptop, and her yarn stash. Learn more at sharonjmondragon.com  

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Read With Audra publicist is responsible for providing and shipping the winner's prize directly to the winner.

Blue Man by John L. Moore (A novel of Ezra Riley, Montana Rancher) [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  Imagine with me a ranch in the vastness that is Montana. A modern-day aged rancher riding his old, dependable horse looking for a mean, aged cow and her calf. The cow is ornery. The cow can't just be left to graze and roam the Montana hills through the winter because she doesn't have any teeth left. It's a bad situation and Ezra is determined to bring the cow in.

Then imagine an unexpected visitor to the ranch that surprises Ezra with a demand for him to leave the ranch immediately and fly across country to clandestinely meet the President of the USA. A secret meeting. A meeting that can not be talked about.

Let your imagination sweep over all sorts of strange happenings beginning to impact the moments, days, and nights of this aged rancher. And then  try to imagine just who the "Blue Man" is and how he fits into this unexpected turn of events in which Ezra Riley finds himself embroiled.

I was pleasantly surprised at the writing of John L. Moore and the serious nature of the book, the entertaining interaction between rancher and animals, the premise of scientific and psychic experiments of the CIA. I loved the humorous interchanges between Ezra and his good friend "Barn Wall." 

This was a good, clean book to read, entertaining, surprising, and fun. Quite a mix of words that brought joy to the reading. This is one that men and women with both enjoy.

About the book:  Ezra Riley is a hardened Montana cowboy who prefers the hills, cattle, and horses to cities, but his unique gift for dream interpretation has him secretly taken to the White House where the President is suffering from recurring nightmares. Riley's encounter with the President launches a series of attacks by the man behind the nightmares, William Anderson Hall, an elderly master spy and a pioneer in the CIA's experiments with psychic powers and hallucinogens. In his remote Virginia compound, Hall has invested 30 years and millions of dollars in creating Blue Man, the ultimate psychic warrior.

Riley's life is soon complicated by Davis Browne, a former agent with the Department of Homeland Security, and Hall's two nieces, Isabel Elizabeth Hall and Mary Margaret Hall. Riley's rough ride is balanced by his cowboy friend, the cartoonist Barney Wallace, whose loyalty follows Riley to the climactic end and the revelation of the content of the President's dream.

GIVEAWAY

Begins August 15

Ends September 10 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

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About the Author: John L. Moore is an award-winning novelist and journalist. He's published seven novels, several non-fiction books and over 2,000 articles, poems, short stories, columns and reviews. A third-generation Montana rancher best known for his western classic, The Breaking of Ezra Riley and a pioneer in the Christian fiction genre, he is the winner of numerous awards, including a 2015 Will Rogers Medallion Award for Western Fiction for his sixth novel, Looking for Lynne. Active in ministry for over a quarter century, Moore has appeared in four documentaries due to his knowledge of the history of horses on the Northern Great Plains. He is a member of the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Montana Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame.

What Others Are Saying

"Moore is a master writer. In Blue Man, he skillfully weaves a story of intrigue that captivates while laying bare our present-day culture." —Bill Johnson, Bethel Church, Redding, CA, Author of Born for Significance and Hope in Any Crisis

“Blue Man is a fantastic novel, perhaps John L. Moore’s best, in its propelling action with hardly a pause and in the several levels and dimensions of character portrayal. I began the novel late in the day and could not put it down until I finished it at 4 a.m.” —Larry Woiwode, Bestselling author, Winner of the William Faulkner Foundation Award, Finalist for the National Book Award and the Book Critics Circle Award

“What a read! Blue Man is filled with prophetic intrigue surrounding a national plot that parallels our own headlines. This story will make your jaw drop and you will wonder whether it's fiction...or a preview of our future." —Wanda Alger, Author of Moving from Sword to Scepter: Rule Through Prayer as the Ekklesia of God 

“Wow! What a trip! Once I picked up Blue Man, I couldn’t put it down. The characters grew on me more with each scene and on occasions I laughed out loud which is rare for me. Blue Man hits with a powerful spiritual impact." —Amy Thomas Davis, Author of Divinely Powerful - A Prophetic Blueprint Introducing the Coming Age'

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publisher, publicist, or author. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Dusks Darkest Shores (Regency Wallflowers #1) by Carolyn Miller

My thoughts:  I thoroughly enjoy author Carolyn Miller's books. From her very first published book, The Elusive Miss Ellison, she has captured the beauty of a Regency novel with her character development and sheer reading pleasure.

This new series of "Regency Wallflowers" with the unfolding blossom that is the sweet and caring Mary Bloomfield who is beloved in the village as her medical doctor's gifted assistant.

But this story is not just about Mary and her blooming recognition by young Adam Edgerton who returns badly damaged from the war, it is rich with the unfolding care of a man whose new blindness plunges him into a darkness deep with despair and total lack of future.

But Mary has ideas and brings him out of this dark shore upon which Adam has landed.

A sweet story and totally enjoyable. 

About the book: How can a meek wallflower help a returning war hero whose dreams are plunged into darkness?

Mary Bloomfield has no illusions. Her chances for matrimony have long since passed her by. Still, her circumstances are pleasant enough, especially now that she has found purpose in assisting her father with his medical practice in England's beautiful Lake District. Even without love, it's a peaceful life.

That is until Adam Edgerton returns to the sleepy district. This decorated war hero did not arrive home to acclaim and rest, but to a new battle against the repercussions of an insidious disease. Mary's caring nature cannot stand to see someone suffer--but how can she help this man see any brightness in his future when he's plunged into melancholic darkness, his dreams laid waste by his condition?

Adam wants no charity, but he's also no coward. If this gentle woman can work hard, how can he do less? Together they struggle to find a way forward for him. Frustration and antipathy slowly develop into friendship and esteem. Then a summer storm atop a mountain peak leads to scandal--and both Mary and Adam must search the depths of their closed hearts for answers if they hope to find any future path with happiness at its end.

Best-selling author Carolyn Miller is back with a fresh series that will not only thrill readers eager for more of her work, but bring in new fans looking for beautiful writing, fascinating research, deftly woven love stories, and real faith lived out in the Regency period.

About the Author: Carolyn Miller is an inspirational romance author who lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia with her husband and four children.

A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English Literature, and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. She enjoys music, films, gardens, art, travel and food.

A longtime lover of Regency romance, Carolyn's novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers. Learn more about Carolyn at www.carolynmillerauthor.com or find her on Facebook (Carolyn Miller Author), Instagram (@CarolynMillerAuthor), and Twitter (@CarolynMAuthor). 

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Dusk's Darkest Shores by Carolyn Miller [Giveaway Ends June 15]

About the book: How can a meek wallflower help a returning war hero whose dreams are plunged into darkness?

Mary Bloomfield has no illusions. Her chances for matrimony have long since passed her by. Still, her circumstances are pleasant enough, especially now that she has found purpose in assisting her father with his medical practice in England's beautiful Lake District. Even without love, it's a peaceful life. 

The Indebted Earl (Serendipity & Secrets #3) by Erica Vetsch [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: As a conclusion to the triology, Serenity and Secrets by Erica Vetsch, The Indebted Earl was a joy to read. The characters are well-drawn, the scenes verbally constructed to settle one's mind in place, and the emotional draw warm, or fierce, or sad, or happy. The reader can entrench their mind firmly in place for total enjoyment.

As Charles returns from naval warfare and gross injuries, he has to heal as does his friend's fiance to whom to delivers a letter and chest of items from her deceased fiance. Charles discovers he has now inherited a title, Earl, with property and land-locked responsibilities all of which he does not want as his heart has been captured by the sea.

Ottoman Dominion (#3 in Empires of Armageddon) by Terry Brennan from Kregel Publications [Giveaway USA Nov. 17-Dec.8]

My thoughts:  Ottoman Dominion, book #3 in the Empires of Armageddon, is by far the most enjoyable and exciting read of the three books in this series. The first two books were difficult to follow and comprehend because of the extremely convoluted political, religious, and overt intrigue involving several nations and the belief systems of each. 

Being more familiar with the main characters, I was able to follow this fast paced thriller as the series is brought to a conclusion. The spiritual realm that is heavily involved in this series, and particularly in book #3, is daunting, frightening, and gives one a feeling of awe for the spiritual warfare being waged.

I highly recommend this series, but caution that it might be a convoluted read, might take you to spiritual thought of which you are not familiar, and will definitely give you a drive to consider the news in an entirely different perspective.

About the book: Diplomatic Security Service agent Brian Mullaney wants out. He's been drawn against his will into a dangerous international mission with world-ending implications--and his final assignment is going to pit him directly against the terrifying, evil entity known only as the Turk.

But when the Turk's minions breach the US embassy in Israel and the American ambassador disappears, Mullaney has no choice. He must accept his role as the final guardian of a mysterious box, his only weapon against the powers of darkness bent on preventing the second coming of the Messiah, no matter who or what they annihilate to accomplish their goal. Can this man who's already lost so much find the strength and faith to save the world--and fulfill the prophecy of peace?

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The final volume of the Empires of Armageddon trilogy will have fans of Joel Rosenberg, Ronie Kendig, and Frank Peretti on the edge of their seats up to the final page.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given,

Persian Betrayal (Empires of Armageddon #2) by Terry Brennan

My thoughts:  Continuing the story of the Ismael Covenant and times turmoil in the world, "Persian Betray" takes the reader through a convoluted maze of political intrigue as well as Biblical revelations.

This is an intense, active, action packed story that spans the globe.

I found it difficult to follow the religious and territorial conflicts and political machinations that spewed from national security offices in Washington, DC to glamorous Persian domains.

Malevolent spirits from the pit of Hades manipulating individuals sold out to evil with a goal of overthrowing the workings of God in the Earth.

Reading the thoughts, conversations, and actions of true believers and their faith in God to work in their lives and the World at large was a joy. Reading about the evil that abounds in this story made my heart joyful to know that I am saved from the Evil One. 

A third book is on the horizon and it is truly something to look forward to.  I do suggest that this series, Empires of Armageddon be read in sequence. #1 Ishmael Covenant, #2 Persian Betrayal, #3 Ottoman Dominion.

About the book: How much can Brian Mullaney risk to serve God and save lives--without losing his own?

DSS Regional Security Officer Brian Mullaney has been tasked with an incredibly dangerous mission. When a synagogue in Jerusalem is destroyed by an explosion, burying the second key prophecy Mullaney is hunting--and the deadly box that protects it--the answers he desperately needs are also crushed. How can he discover the meaning of the centuries-old prophecy now? Why are he and the ambassador he's assigned to protect being targeted? And is there any way this lone man can thwart a nuclear arms race between three ascendant empires of the past?

An otherworldly servant of evil known only as the Turk is maneuvering all three nations into an intricate dance designed to undermine prophecy about the end times. And he won't let Mullaney or anyone else get in his way.

Wounded in a bloody shoot-out, pressured by his wife to come home, and mourning the death of his best friend, Mullaney doesn't need a powerful enemy. Who is he to save the Ishmael Covenant, the treaty promising peace in the Middle East? Despite angelic intervention, Mullaney wants nothing to do with his final assignment. But without him, evil will win the ultimate struggle . . . and humankind will have no hope left.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

The Gentleman Spy by Erica Vetsch

My thoughts: This series of Regency novels is entertaining and engrossing. While they can easily be stand alone reads,it would behoove the reader to read them in succession as characters and plot, while different, are built upon book by book.

I loved the characters and the way they are fully developed by the author. You'll love them and despise them. The main characters are Charlotte who is the drab, intellectual, daughter of an Earl who keeps she and his wife on tight purse strings. And our hero of the hour, the new Duke who was originally the "spare" since he was a second-son. In book one circumstances invade his life and he becomes the heir 

An unexected meeting, first impressions, secrets, hasty wedding, and a plot that thickens while being woven through the  murky waters of the destitute in London and the wealthy social class and how they are tangled in a murky mess.

Dangers. Dangerous people. Lives torn assunder. And a plot against the throne. 

A must read for those who love regency stories. A must read for those who love exposing the dirty secrets of London. A must read for those who love good Christian values interwoven throughout the book.

Consider before you pass along to young readers: The story mentions brothels, prostitution, beatings. The story has the intense emotions of a newly wed couple but not any bedroom scenes.

About the book: He only wanted a duchess for a day--but she's determined to make it a marriage for life

When his father and older brother suddenly pass away, the new Duke of Haverly is saddled with a title he never expected to bear. To thwart the plans of his scheming family, the duke impulsively marries a wallflower. After all, she's meek and mild; it should be easy to sequester her in the country and get on with his life--as a secret agent for the Crown.

But his bride has other ideas. She's determined to take her place not only as his duchess but as his wife. As a duchess, she can use her position to help the lowest of society--the women forced into prostitution because they have no skills or hope. Her endeavors are not met favorably in society, nor by her husband who wishes she'd remain in the background as he ordered.

Can the duke succeed in relegating her to the sidelines of his life? When his secrets are threatened with exposure, will his new wife be an asset or a liability?

About the Author: Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.

Learn more about Erica at www.ericavetsch.com or find her on Facebook.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions in the review posted here are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted by publicist and author and they will determine the winner and send prize/s to winner.

Cross Shadow (Shepherd Suspense Novel #2) by Andrew Huff [Giveaway]

My thoughts: From the very first scene in this second book of the Shepherd Suspense series, CROSS SHADOW, the action captures the reader's attention and doesn't let up until the very last of the book.

If you like contemporary fiction that is loaded with suspense, fast paced action, and an adrenaline charged story, then you certainly won't want to miss this book. I encourage reading book one first, but it isn't a must do for reader's enjoyment.

John Cross is "retired" from the CIA and he is now a Baptist pastor in a small church located in a small town. That is the setting for a sedate life after the action charged life he led in the CIA. But things happen. Cross is there. And the action accelerates.

Christine is a news journalist from a major station and somehow she, too, seems to get tangled up in situations that will leave a story reader saying, "Wow!".

I totally enjoyed this book and am looking forward to Author Andrew Huff's next installment. Wonder what John Cross will get into then?  

About the book: All journalist Christine Lewis wants is the truth. All pastor John Cross wants is to avoid it.

Former CIA agent turned evangelical pastor John Cross is busy caring for the small community of believers he ministers to in Virginia. Journalist Christine Lewis is busy with the demand for her talents from top news agencies in New York City. Neither has any time left for their relationship, which began eight months before when they paired up to prevent the detonation of a chemical bomb in the nation's capital.

But when Christine hears that her stepbrother has been arrested for murder in Texas, they team up again to discover the truth about the crime. Untangling a web of conspiracy, the couple finds themselves in the center of another dangerous situation-and in trouble far deeper than they expected.

With an assassin on the loose, a trusted colleague acting as a double agent, and unreliable artificial intelligence connected to mercenaries who have Cross on their hit list, these two may not get out of the Lone Star State alive.

About the Author

Huff spent ten years in local church ministry as a youth pastor and creative arts pastor before pursuing God’s calling into creative storytelling and media production as the product director at Igniter Media, a church media company (ignitermedia.com).

He is a two-time finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) Genesis Contest for unpublished authors (2014, 2017) and also won the best screenplay award at the 2015 48 Hour Film Festival in Richmond, VA. A Cross to Kill and Cross Shadow in the Shepherd Suspense series are his first releases.

Huff holds a bachelor of science in religion degree from Liberty University and a master of arts in Christian education from Dallas Theological Seminary.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted by Read With Audra (a blog tour giveaway) who will provide with the publisher winner's prize and send it directly to the winner.

The Lost Lieutenant by Erica Vetsch - from Kregel Publishing - blog tour & prize pack #giveaway

New Christian Regency Fiction book  for you to check out and a fabulous giveaway for you to enter. 

My thoughts: I enjoyed reading The Lost Lieutenant so much. The characters were delightful and the author fleshed them out beautifully in word pictures you could see in your mind's eye. You could feel their emotions of fear, anxiety, or joy as the story unfolded.

The social mores of the time were well addressed in the narrative clearly defining the distinct clash between social standings based on wealth and rank.

I grieved for Diana for her dreadful life at home with her harsh, unloving father. I cheered on Evan as he endures the effects of his wound in battle.

The sweet romance between Diana and her lieutenant, Evan, was a joy. The reliance on their faith to bring them through their troubles was inspiring.

I truly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in this series. 

About the book: He's doing what he can to save the Prince Regent's life . . . but can he save his new marriage as well?

Evan Eldridge never meant to be a war hero--he just wanted to fight Napoleon for the future of his country. And he certainly didn't think that saving the life of a peer would mean being made the Earl of Whitelock. But when the life you save is dear to the Prince Regent, things can change in a hurry.

Now Evan has a new title, a manor house in shambles, and a stranger for a bride, all thrust upon him by a grateful ruler. What he doesn't have are all his memories. Traumatized as a result of his wounds and bravery on the battlefield, Evan knows there's something he can't quite remember. It's important, dangerous--and if he doesn't recall it in time, will jeopardize not only his marriage but someone's very life.

Readers who enjoy Julie Klassen, Carolyn Miller, and Kristi Ann Hunter will love diving into this brand-new Regency series filled with suspense, aristocratic struggles, and a firm foundation of faith.

About the author: Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota. Learn more about Erica at www.ericavetsch.com or find her on Facebook.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Prize pack is provided by Kregel Publishing and/or publicist, "Read With Audra."

Ishmael Covenant (Empires of Armageddon series) by award-winning author, Terry Brennan - from Kregel Publishing [Giveaway]

My thoughts: This is quite an interesting book. For me the first half was a slow read simply because keeping track of the characters was somewhat daunting. Also, understanding the geopolitical and religious factions and implications developing was difficult for me to keep straight and understand.

Basically, the premise of Ishmael Covenant is an agreement between Arab states and Israel granting land back to Palestine, agreeing to joint protections in case of attack, and granting the Israelites a portion of Jerusalem to built a temple.

Woven into this mire of politics is a mysterious box that holds a prophesy and also has power to strike dead anyone who touches it that doesn't have the Aaronic blessing bestowed upon them. 

A couple of the characters in this complex story are eerie, mysterious, and evil in bearing and in being.

You have strong defenders in United States Embassy teams as well as Israeli security forces. Combined, these are forces with which to reckon. They fulfill their responsibilities quickly and successfully.

Over all the complexities of this story, there is interwoven individual faith and the strength it gives to them to face each day no matter what the obstacles.

The book ends with a cliff hanger and you hope the publisher will soon release a sequel so you can see what results with the Ishmael Covenant and what happens to the mysterious box and its message. 

About the book: His marriage in tatters and his career ruined by lies, Diplomatic Security Service agent Brian Mullaney is at the end of his rope. Banished to Israel as punishment by his agency, he's assigned to guard a US ambassador and an insignificant box. Little does he know that this new job will propel him straight into a crisis of global proportions.

Inside the box is a messianic prophecy about the fate of the world. And a dark enemy known as The Turk and the forces of evil at his command are determined to destroy the box, the prophecy, and the Middle East as we know it. When Ambassador Cleveland gets in the way, his life and his daughter's life are threatened--and Mullaney must act fast.

Now agents of three ancient empires have launched covert operations to secure nuclear weapons, in direct defiance of the startling peace treaty Israel and its Arab neighbors have signed. And a traitor in the US State Department is leaking critical information to a foreign power. It's up to Mullaney--still struggling with his own broken future--to protect the embassy staff, thwart the clandestine conspiracies, and unmask a traitor--before the desert is turned into a radioactive wasteland.

Fans of Joel C. Rosenberg, Steven James, and Ted Dekker will relish the deadly whirlpool of international intrigue and end-times prophecy in Ishmael Covenant--and will eagerly await the rest of this new trilogy.

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About the author: Terry Brennan is the award-winning author of The Sacred Cipher, The Brotherhood Conspiracy, and The Aleppo Code, the three books in The Jerusalem Prophecies series. His latest release, Ishmael Covenant is the first in his new series, Empires of Armageddon.

A Pulitzer Prize is one of the many awards Brennan accumulated during his 22-year newspaper career. The Pottstown (PA) Mercury won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing for a two-year series published while he led the team as the newspaper’s Editor.

Starting out as a sportswriter in Philadelphia, Brennan became an editor and publisher for newspapers in Pennsylvania, Illinois, and New York and later moved to the corporate staff of Ingersoll Publications (400 newspapers in the U.S., Ireland and England) as Executive Editor of all U.S. newspaper titles.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted by publicist who is responsible with publisher, Kregel, for sending winner's copy.

Good News for Little Hearts Series: Gus Loses His Grip, Henry Says Good-bye, & Tori Comes Out of Her Shell (illustrations by Joe Hox)

A new series of hardback, illustrated children's books for three-to eight-year-olds each centered on an animal family bring gospel help and biblical counsel to families. The animal characters, colorful illustrations, and the real-life issues each animal family face will captivate children. The first three books address anxiety, anger, and failure, bringing biblical help and hope to issues every child faces.

The last page contains information for parents on how God, in his Word, helps us turn to Jesus when we are sad. Together children and parents will be guided into meaningful conversations about living by faith in the details of everyday life. Also included is a tear-out page of Back Pocket Bible Verses that will give children a practical way to remember God's words when they are sad.

Gus Loses His Grip: When You Want Something Too Much by David Powlison

My thoughts:  This story of Gus and his uncontrolled desires or "wants" is illustrated with cute woodsy critters - the raccoons - and lovely scenes as they address the issue of Gus and his insatiable desires.

The story is sweet (just like Gus' candy) and the family environment is strong. But soon, Gus resorts to taking what he wants instead of its being given to him or purchasing it. Eventually, his father discovers Gus' problem and handles it with love and teaches the child about repentance and forgiveness.

A sweet story and well done.

About the book: Gus, a raccoon who loves all things sweet, learns what happens when you want something too much. After Gus gets caught taking candy from the store, Papa reminds him that temptation might be strong for us, but it s not too strong for Jesus. Both Gus and Papa can ask Jesus for help when they want something too much.

Henry Says Good-bye: When You Are Sad by Edward T. Welch

My thoughts:  This is a beautifully illustrated book filled with critters and lovely scenes. The illustrations are perfect for the story told where Henry the Hedgehog (home is in a hedge) loses his pet ladybug. He is first sad and then angry at this loss of his beloved pet.

His father consoles him and leads him in understanding loss and how "God is close to those with a broken heart."

A lovely story and will help children who have lost pets or loved ones understand. It will also help those who have not experienced loss understand help those who have.

About the book: Henry the hedgehog loves his pet ladybug. She keeps him company and entertains him, his family, and his friends with her flying tricks. But one day, he has to say good-bye to his ladybug. Henry and his whole family are sad, but they learn to go to Jesus with their sadness and ask him to comfort them.

Tori Comes Out of Her Shell: When You Are Lonely by Jayne V. Clark

My thoughts:  Shyness is hard at anytime and produces anxiety on a variety of levels to those shy individuals coping with it. Tori the turtle was not different from the shy child or introvert adult. Both face their personal fears.

Sure enough, going to her new school brought out the shyness and fear of the new people and place. Her teacher came to the rescue an shared how she, too, had overcome a similar problem.

The story has a strong Christian message about God being your friend and sticking with you at all times.

Terrific illustrations from Joe Hox that bring out the story in vivid scenes of woodland critters as Tori and friends live the story.


About the book: Tori the turtle feels all alone. She has just moved to a new pond and a new school with her family and it seems like everyone has a friend except her. Her teacher notices she feels alone and helps her remember Jesus is always her friend and then along the way she makes some new friends. The last page contains information for Christian parents on how God, in his Word, helps us turn to Jesus when we are lonely. Together children and parents will be guided into meaningful conversations about living by faith in the details of everyday life. Also included is a tear-out page of Back Pocket Bible Verses that will give children a practical way to remember God's words when they feel all alone.

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies of these books to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

The Moon is Always Round by Jonathan Gibson

My thoughts:  A picture book about a young family, and the father in conversation with his young son sharing that even though you can't always see it, "the moon is always round." This is used to convey the concept of God's love never changing, even when you can't see all of it.

The idea is instilled repeatedly by father to child that "the moon is always round" even in the face of loss. In this book's story, the young family is expecting a new addition but there is the sadness of losing that young baby and not being able to bring it home.

So the story is a good book for one who has experienced loss, but I don't see this as a book for the typical family. Even for reading to a child who has lost a friend or a grandparent, it might not be appropriate. But for the way it is written it would be appropriate.

The overall message is very good. It is that you'll be ok ..... because "the moon is always round" and that conveys the idea that God is also unchanging.



About the book: Even young children want answers to the hard questions about God and suffering. In The Moon Is Always Round, seminary professor and author Jonathan Gibson uses the vivid imagery of the moon to explain to children how God’s goodness is always present, even when it might appear to be obscured by upsetting or difficult circumstances.

In this beautiful, full-color illustrated book, he allows readers to eavesdrop on the conversations he had with his young son in response to his sister’s death. Father and son share a simple liturgy together that reminds them that, just as the moon is always round despite its different phases, so also the goodness of God is always present throughout the different phases of life.

A Cross To Kill (Shepherd Suspense #1) by Andrew Huff from Kregel Publications [Giveaway}

My thoughts:  I'll admit the cover wasn't necessarily a "come on" to me with its stark red, black, and white graphic and the title was a bit of a put off as well. But after reading the book's premise or back cover matter and knowing the publisher, Kregel, was tops, I committed to reviewing the book.

This isn't your typical Christian fiction that appeals to ladies. This one is so action-packed, and mind-bending that it will soon be a favorite of men who enjoy a fast paced read with the element of faith an integral part.

The first 28 pages were breath taking, action packed, nail-biting with its terse, rapid fire narrative of an exfil or rescue.

Then the book has a few pages of normal - if the CIA, spies, and terrorists can be considered normal - paced interlude setting the stage for the life and actions of the main character, John Cross. He is known by a code name for his work with the CIA. But he is also lovingly known as pastor of a small church.

A bit of romance is mingled within the main thread of the story.

This is the first in a three book series (I think) and the promise of exciting adventures to come incites compelling anticipation. Next is Cross Shadow (Shepherd Suspense 2) and I look forward to its release

About the book: John Cross is a small-town pastor, bent on leading his flock to follow God's calling. He's not the sort of man one would expect to have a checkered past.

But the truth is that the man behind the pulpit preaching to his sheep was once a wolf--an assassin for the CIA. When John decided to follow Christ, he put that work behind him, determined to pay penance for all the lives he took. He vowed never to kill again.

Now someone wants the peaceful pastor to pay for his sins with his own life. And when a terrorist out for revenge walks into the church, John's secrets are laid bare. Confronted with his past, he must face his demons and discover whether a man can truly change. Can he keep his vow--even when the people he loves are in mortal danger? Will his congregation and the brave woman he's learning to care for be caught in the cross fire? In the end, his death may be the only sacrifice he has left to offer .

Andrew Huff's thrilling debut is not only a riveting story of suspense, it's also a deep exploration of the moral quandaries that face those who choose to follow the Prince of Peace in a violent world.

Read an excerpt from Kregel - click here

About the Author:  Andrew Huff spent 10 years in local church ministry before pursuing God’s calling into creative storytelling and media production as the Product Director at Igniter Media, a church media company (ignitermedia.com). He is a two-time finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Contest for unpublished authors (2014 & 2017) and also won the Best Screenplay award at the 2015 48 Hour Film Festival in Richmond, VA.

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Science in Religion degree from Liberty University and a Master of Arts in Christian Education from Dallas Theological Seminary. He resides in North Texas with his beautiful wife Jae and their two boys.

I can't wait to read the next books in this exciting series

GIVEAWAY

Nov. 19-Dec. 10

Hosted by: Read with Audra

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DISCLOSURE: Giveaway is hosted on I Read With Audra and details are available from that source. I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions in my review are mine, alone and are freely given.

Why Do We Say Good Night? by Champ Thornton & Illustrated by Rommel Ruiz (New Growth Press}

My thoughts:  Don't you just love how young children ask so many questions? Of course, it can get to be a bit much from time to time with their repeatedly asking the same one. But that is how they learn. That is what their curious little minds are made to do in order to grow and store a vast encyclopedia of information. Little sound bites that their mind will organize.

In Why Do We Say Good Night? Mommy is tucking her child into bed for the evening......  and we are outside the book listening as she says

"When nighttime comes

and no more light,

you get in bed,

we say good night."

And, childlike, her daughter replies......

"But when it's dark,

and I can't see—

Why do you say

good night to me?"

Mommy then begins to beautifully narrate how it is good because the Lord made day and night. So night is good. O course, the little one has a retort and question about that.

The might, glory, power of God are beautifully brought out in these short rhymes, The child is encouraged to believe that God is watching and taking care of him even in the dark and that night, even though dark to him, is light and beautiful to God.

A treasure to read and share with a little one. I highly recommend

About the book: Going to bed and turning out the light can be a hard time for many children. Award-winning author Champ Thornton wrote this beautifully designed and illustrated book to help parents comfort their children with three truths about God. As a mother and her little daughter talk, they remember together that God made the night, he sees in the dark, and he watches over them just like a shepherd protects his sheep. Children and parents will want to start a new nighttime tradition of reading together about why we can say that the night is good.

In this important, engaging children's book, parents can bring comfort and encouragement to their children, reminding them Jesus is near.

AUTHOR: Champ Thornton is an the associate pastor at Ogletown Baptist Church in Newark, Delaware. He has pastored in South Carolina and served as director of SOMA, a ministry training school in Columbus, Ohio. He is host of "In the Word, On the Go," a ten-minute podcast for families and is the author of several books, including The Radical Book for Kids, Pass It On: A Proverbs Journal for the Next Generation, Radically Different and Why Do We Say Goodnight?. Champ and his wife, Robben, have three children.

ILLUSTRATOR: Rommel Ruiz was born and raised in the Dominican Republic and moved to sunny Southern California to pursue his passion for creative expression and storytelling. An accomplished designer and illustrator, he incorporates influences from theater, film, animation, and mid-century design. His work includes animated visuals for Cartoon Network and the award-winning Luther documentary, as well as illustrations for books including Golly’s Folly, The Gospel in Color, and more. He is also the cofounder and art director of Patrol. He and his wife, Anny, live with their two joyful girls in Los Angeles.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.