Projecting A

2020-08-29T21:43:00.000-05:00

Aspects of Faith giveaway a success!

2018-10-29T23:20:00.001-05:00

God is so good! The journey to completion of Aspects of Faith has been a bit of a whirlwind - in a great way, of course. Never has a project flowed so smoothly or had such a great release.

http://getbook.at/AspectsofFaith

I know this book was given to me, it's not my wisdom, but that of our Savior Jesus Christ who graciously opened my eyes to the truth. I count myself blessed to be able to share what I learned with others. In an effort to make it easily available to as many as possible, I offered the book for free for 5 days. During that time the book hit the top 20 list in its category multiple days in a row on Amazon. At the end of the promotion, 58 copies had been given away in 5 different countries: USA, India, Brazil, Germany, and Canada. That is what I call a successful start for a Christian Faith study guide!

The blessings just keep coming as readers comments start to come in. Author Rebecca Reddell, a fantastic storyteller in her own right, left a wonderful 5-star review on Amazon.

"As a fan of Author April Erwin, I was delighted to read her breakdown on faith. It gave a personal view of faith, the need to believe, and why Jesus isn't a magic button. Her testimonies, as well as her scriptural connections, give the book a more personal and relatable standpoint. I love her writing style and intimate look at a personal relationship with the Lord and how we can benefit from having even a mustard seed of faith. I feel it's a must-read in this day and age when our faith is lacking, and the world is overwhelming."

She also shared the book as a feature on her blog. It's an honor to call her my friend and I'm so touched she wanted to share this testimony of Faith with her readers.

Please click this link to visit her page and explore her many books as well. :)

Rebecca's Write Inspirations: Author April Erwin's Aspects of Faith: Most of us, sometimes, feel as if our heads are barely keeping above water. Even Avril Lavigne felt that way as she dealt with health i...

NEW RELEASE! Get Aspects of Faith FREE!

2018-10-23T00:38:00.000-05:00

NEW RELEASE!

Aspects of Faith is now available at amazon.com. To celebrate the release of this new study guide, I'm offering the ebook for FREE on Amazon. Follow the link to get your copy and please share with your friends and family. Hurry, it's only available October 23rd-27th.

getbook.at/AspectsofFaith

“Faith is one of the most basic acts of being a follower of Jesus Christ. It’s faith that Jesus is the Son of God who sacrificed himself on a cross and defeated death and sin to rise again so that we could be free, that brings us to commit our lives to Him. I would even say it ’s the first step, because how can you come unto him and repent, if you don’t already have faith to believe He’s real?

Faith doesn’t stop there. Once we make that covenant, then our faith has to continue to grow and become active. It’s that type of faith that I think many of us struggle with the most. I certainly do and I know I’m not alone. It’s not something we often talk about as a group of believers, but maybe we should.

Why, if we have faith in who Jesus is, do we also struggle to have faith in what Jesus will do? Sure, He died for my sins, but can or will He really heal me? Or help me overcome my financial/personal/emotional struggles?

Personal faith in the divine is what I wanted to understand deeper. To go beyond the general or even abstract definition and understand the basic steps that build personal faith. I invite you to join me on my journey to learn the many aspects of faith.”

Enjoy and God bless!

New reviews for Creation's Ballad

2018-07-10T00:24:00.000-05:00

Reviews are rolling in for my picture book Creation's Ballad and I'm so excited. It's such a blessing when a project is received so enthusiastically.

If you haven't already, be sure to visit the book's title page on my website for scripture references, bonus artwork, and a really cool video! You can see all of that here: http://www.aprilerwin.webs.com/creation-s-ballad

Want to purchase a copy? getBook.at/CreationsBallad

WINNERS of Dreams of My Heart by Barbara J. Scott Giveaway

2018-03-10T21:44:00.001-06:00

Thank you all for participating in Mountain Brook Ink's "Romantic Reads Blog Tour." I hope you enjoyed meeting all the authors and discovering new books like Dreams of My Heart by Barbara J. Scott.
Winners have been chosen, check out who got lucky! :)

KINDLE FIRE (GRAND PRIZE) WINNER:

Steve Weber

$10 Amazon Gift Card Winners (Second Place Prizes):

Will Griesmer
Chanel Monroe
Wendy Newcomb
Trish Musgrave

Congratulations everyone!

Dreams of My Heart by Barbara J. Scott-GIVEAWAY

2018-03-01T22:20:00.000-06:00

Song Stuck on the Brain: Trust and Obey. I've been teaching it to my 22-month-old nephew as we learn what it means to obey - and disobey. Time-outs have happened, but overall he's really good. :)

What a great new series! I've always been drawn to stories about marriage to a stranger - Mail-order brides, arranged marriages, marriages of necessity. I find the journey to love in these stores are more intense because the couple has more to lose. Especially in a period story, the option to walk away is less likely forcing them to face their issues and learn to struggle together.

In Dreams of My Heart, Kate and Buck find themselves in just such a position. Their personal histories complicate matters further, but I found their journey touching and inspiring. Historicals like this keep the genre alive and viable.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Can A Reluctant Bride and Her New Husband Fall in Love Despite Their Wounded Hearts?

Plucky Irish immigrant Kate O’Brien struggles to hang on to her brother’s homestead after his death in a suspicious cattle stampede. If she’s unable to pay off the loan that paid for her ticket to America, she will be forced to marry the banker’s rogue son, Rafe Hamilton.

When Kate is attacked by a drunken gang, salvation comes in the form of a total stranger—Texas cattleman Buck McKean. He drives the men off her ranch and spends the night in her cabin to keep her safe. However, his act of kindness poses a profound threat to her reputation, and the two marry to prevent the impending consequences.

Kate makes it clear to her new husband that because of the abuse she suffered at the hands of her stepfather, she’ll never allow another man to control her life. Left at the altar in Virginia City, Buck has made his own vow never to give his heart to another woman.

When Kate asks Buck for the unthinkable, her choice endangers both their lives.
Can God mend their hearts and save their love?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Barbara J. Scott: After more than twenty years spent acquiring and editing books by numerous bestselling Christian authors, Barbara Scott has returned to her true love—writing—with this first novel in the Reluctant Brides series. Barbara and her husband Mike live in the Nashville area, where sweet tea is a food staple, with their two Chihuahuas, Riley and Sissy, both rescued from puppy mills. Reading, writing, and research are her passions.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Barbara-J.-Scott/e/B001H6O14M/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BarbaraJScott01
Twitter Followers: www.twitter.com/@BarbaraScott01
Linked In connections: www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-scott-17065040/
Pinterest Followers: www.pinterest.com/barbarajscott01/
Website: www.barbarajscott.com

BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE:
February 23: Angela Ruth Strong w/ Shannon Vannatter
February 23: Angela Ruth Strong w/ Caffinated Reads
February 24: Angela Ruth Strong w/ Books, Music, and Life
February 25: Patricia Lee w/ Books N Baubles
February 25: Patricia Lee w/ Miralee Ferrell
February 26: Patricia Lee w/ Christian Shelf-Esteem
February 27: Janalyn Voigt w/ Among the Reads
February 27: Janalyn Voigt w/ Homemade Mythology
February 28: Janalyn Voigt w/ Debbie Lynne Costello
March 1: Barbara J. Scott w/ Kat's Corner Books
March 1: Barbara J. Scott w/ April Erwin
March 2: Barbara J. Scott w/ Petticoats & Pistols

RAFFLECOPTER FORM:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

February #TwitterTales - My Hero in Justice

2018-03-01T01:50:00.000-06:00

Are you a Twitter lover? It's a question that usually sparks quite the debate. Recently I've joined with my fellow Solstice Publishing authors to explore a fun trend-Flash Fiction.

What a challenge it is too! Each month an image is chosen and we all write our own independent story centered on the image. What makes it so hard? Writing the story in only 8 Twitter posts with a maximum of 280 characters for each post. That's not a lot of words peeps! LOL

It was fun, though, and I'm looking forward to the next month's story. You can follow mine (and the others too) by going to Twitter and searching #TwitterTales. You'll find mine at @aprilerwin.

Now that February is over, I thought I'd share the full story here for your convenience. Be sure to watch for more Flash Fiction next month.

My Hero in Justice

April Erwin

“Justice Fire Department. Call out!” His voice cuts through the smoke like a lifeline.

“Here.” My voice cracks & my lungs burn. Eyes streaming, I search the dim haze for my rescuer. A gloved hand reaches out. I lunge, gripping it with what strength I have left. I feel his arms go around me. My body lifts and I feel weightless in his arms. My vision tunnels as I hear him whisper, “You’re safe. I’ve got you.” I sigh in sweet relief.

The cool air outside fills my starving lungs. I gasp, sucking it down. Settling me on a gurney, he steps back as an EMT straps on oxygen & checks vitals.

The flames engulfing my apartment hiss as timber groans under the onslaught of water.

He's removed his gear & Nomex hood now, revealing a strong jaw covered in dark stubble. Mahogany hair, damp with sweat, plasters his forehead. Gray eyes pierce mine. My stomach quivers & goosebumps run over my skin. I should have known it would be him

I want to crawl beneath his rough turnout coat and hug him for all I’m worth. To cling tight and never let go. “I was so scared, Jack.” I pull the mask down to whisper. “I thought I’d burn alive–that I would never see you again.”

Jack wipes the tears from my face and examines me from head to toe, ending with my left hand. He runs his thumb across the diamond before lifting my hand to his lips. Pressing a kiss to my palm he smiles. “I’ll walk through fire every day to keep you safe. You aren’t getting rid of me that easily.”

I chuckle and break into a coughing fit. He slips the oxygen mask back in place and wraps his arms around me, pulling me close. My fireman, my fiancé, my hero.

New Release: Creation's Ballad - My first picture book!

2018-02-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

NEW RELEASE!!

I'm so excited to share the debut of my first Children's picture book. The illustrations were done by my mom, Linda and they look awesome. I've been waiting more than 10 years to see this published and I'm so blessed that God has made a way for it to happen.

getBook.at/CreationsBallad

Available now from Amazon in e-book and full color 8x10 paperback.
$7.50 Paperback and $4.99 kindle. Buy the paperback first and you can add the e-book on for just $1.99.

A Valentine for Book Lovers: Cupid's Arrow Vol. 2

2018-02-14T00:26:00.000-06:00

Valentine’s Day encompasses romance for all ages. People go out of their way to show their affection for the one they love with flowers, candy, perhaps a special meal. Just how did this day come to be?

Valentine’s Day can be traced back to the third century when Emperor Claudius III of Rome decided young men made better soldiers than those with wives and families to care for. Valentine, a young man who preached the word, felt this was injustice at its worst. He defied the emperor and secretly performed marriages for young lovers in secret. Once his actions were discovered, the emperor ordered he be put to death.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B079SKVC45

Today, we honor his memory by celebrating romance with the one we love. To honor St. Valentine, Solstice Publishing presents Cupid’s Arrow Vol. 2, a collection of tales of love.

An essence of bliss makes everything delicious.

Her last word before kissing him was, “Hush.”

Never say never...

She's not your grandmother's matchmaker.

Separated by the winds of war

They meet time after time…

Can love possibly come again?

Real life isn't a fairy tale... or is it?

Love is a wonderful spell.

Love is a special feeling between couples. The sweetness of caring deeply for each other. A waterfall of romance is brought to you E.B. Sullivan, Jeffery Martin Botzenhart, A.A. Schenna, Adam Zorzi, K.C. Sprayberry, A.J. Kohler, Veronica Peters, Noelle Myers, and Palvi Sharma

Justice Burning One Day SALE!

2017-11-28T10:07:00.000-06:00

Justice Burning, today only, for just .99 cents.

The Sales are still coming! This week is all about saving money and getting a great read for you and for your friends and family. What's better than hours of great reading for less than a buck? Buy as a gift or stocking stuffer. :)

Spread the joy, people and stay tuned this week for more sales. :)

getBook.at/JusticeBurning1

#Free #ebook #RomanticSuspense #ChristianFiction

Cyber Monday Special

2017-11-27T10:45:00.001-06:00

Don't miss your chance to start your Holiday with a gift from me to you - and all your friends and family. Be sure to share the good news and get a free book on Amazon.

Can volunteering together turn Trix and Cam's Christmas from miserable to Merry? getBook.at/VolunteerChristmasSingle

#Free #ebook#CyberMonday2017

Stay tuned, all my books will go on sale this week, one a day - don't miss out. :)

God Made the World, a cuddly baby book

2017-09-18T15:17:00.000-05:00

Song Stuck on the Brain: Frère Jacques

God Made The World (Bible Babies)

Debbie Rivers-Moore (Author),

Emma Haines (Illustrator)

MY TAKE:

A simple and sweet book designed to introduce the youngest of children to God's creation. Soft material, with a crinkle cover that babies just can't resist feeling. The colors are soft, but not pastel and it is only a few pages, so there aren't many illustrations, but plenty for a very young baby. The loop allowing it to be attached to strollers or car seats is a nice touch. Overall, I really liked the book, it would make a sweet baby gift.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Charming illustrations help infants and toddlers discover God's natural world, from dolphins to foxes to kittens! This squishy fabric book features crinkle cloth for sensory development and hours of baby fun. God Made the World also includes a child-safety mirror so baby can see herself and know she's a part of God's design.

For parents, a Velcro closure keeps the book shut, and a hanging tab can attach the book to a stroller, purse, or toy so it can go wherever they do. It comes packaged in a bag to keep it clean and includes a header card for easy hanging display.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR & ILLUSTRATOR:

Debbie Rivers-Moore is the author of several children's picture books, including Tractor Ted, Lamb Loves Springtime, and God Made the World.

Emma Haines is an illustrator and surface pattern designer based in the Midlands and is the founder of Cut and Stick Design. Emma studied illustration at Loughborough University and now works at an art licensing company. Her designs are inspired by 1960's children's books and she really loves character design - she enjoys bringing a smile to someone by creating a cute character.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Captivating Regency Romance by Carolyn Miller

2017-08-04T20:53:00.000-05:00

Song Stuck on the Brain: Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond

The Captivating Lady Charlotte

Carolyn Miller

MY TAKE:

If you are a fan of Regency Romance, than this is a Don't Miss book and series. If you aren't familiar with the genre, then this is a great way to discover a new style of historical novels.

Carolyn Miller writes beautiful stories of faith and love that sparkle with wit while still bringing out deep emotions in all her characters. Lady Charlotte and Lord Hartwell are as different as can be, at least at first look. Age and life experience doesn't appeal to Charlotte. William is wary of her beauty and youth. Maybe an obvious set up to begin with, but their journey to love and understanding is powerful.

It's the second in a series, but reads well as a stand alone. I think you'll find that reading the series is well worth it, so be sure to check out book one The Elusive Miss Ellison too.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Her heart is her own--but her hand in marriage is another matter

Lady Charlotte Featherington is destined for great things on the marriage market. After all, as the beautiful daughter of a marquess, she should have her pick of the eligible nobility when she debuts. She, however, has love at the top of her list of marriageable attributes. And her romantic heart falls hard for one particularly dashing, attentive suitor. Sadly for Charlotte, her noble father intends her betrothed to be someone far more dull.

William Hartwell may be a duke, but he knows he was Charlotte's father's pick, not the young lady's own choice. And the captivating Lady Charlotte does not strike him as a woman who will be wooed by his wealth or title. While she has captured his heart, he has no idea how to win hers in return--and the betrayal and scandal his first wife put him through makes it difficult for him to believe that love can ever be trusted. His only hope is that Charlotte's sense of responsibility will win out over her romantic notions.

Can a widowed duke and a romantically inclined lady negotiate a future and discover love beyond duty? Will they be able to find healing and hope from the legacy of grace?

Poignant and charming, this is another beautifully written, clean and wholesome Regency romance from Carolyn Miller in the tradition of Georgette Heyer and Julie Klassen. Fans of The Elusive Miss Ellison will meet compelling new characters--and a few old friends.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Author Carolyn Miller

Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia. She is married, with four gorgeous children, who all love to read (and write!).

A longtime lover of Regency romance, Carolyn's novels have won a number of Romance Writers of American (RWA) and American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers. Her favorite authors are classics like Jane Austen (of course!), Georgette Heyer, and Agatha Christie, but she also enjoys contemporary authors like Susan May Warren and Becky Wade.

Her stories are fun and witty, yet also deal with real issues, such as dealing with forgiveness, the nature of really loving versus 'true love', and other challenges we all face at different times.

Her books include:
Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace
The Elusive Miss Ellison
The Captivating Lady Charlotte
The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Dark Deception - Edge of Your Seat Suspense from Nancy Mehl

2017-07-03T13:51:00.000-05:00

Song Stuck on the Brain: It's the Number of the Day sung by Count on Sesame Street. My littlest nephew loves this and we watch it on YouTube. He's only 1 but has been saying "ah, ah, ah" after counting for 6 months. It's adorable. :)

Dark Deception

Nancy Mehl

My Take:

Have you read any of my fellow Missourian author's books before? If you haven't, what are you waiting for! If you love suspense you have to hurry to her amazon page ASAP. Well, preferably you'll wait until you've finished this post, but then you should definitely go stock up on Nancy Mehl novels.

When Dark Deception became available for review, I hadn't read the first book, Fatal Frost yet. I knew it would be worth it, so I purchased it and read them in order. Although not necessary, Dark Deception was readable as a stand alone, Fatal Frost was fantastic and I'm so glad I read them in order.

One of the things I loved the most about both books, was how the location was as much a character as the people. In Dark Deception it's the small town atmosphere and the treacherous storm on the mountain. I hate spoilers, so I won't give you the specifics, but the scenes on the mountain especially had me holding my breath.

More than just a law enforcement procedural. Way more than your run of the mill romantic suspense. Inspirational and Faith challenging situations flow organically through the drama and action filled stories. Edge of your seat read is a great description.

About the Book:

New Edge-of-Your-Seat Read from an Established Romantic Suspense Author
Kate O'Brien has been leading a quiet life in small-town Shelter Cove, Arkansas, for the past four years when her past suddenly comes roaring back to life. Four years ago, she and her twin sister were attacked by an elusive serial killer. Only Kate survived, and it was her drawing of the attacker--along with some last-minute evidence--that convicted the suspect.

She's been in witness protection ever since, but new evidence suggests the convicted man isn't the murderer and she's been subpoenaed to testify in the new trial. Nervous about the risk, she'll only agree if the same Marshal who protected her during the original trial escorts her to St. Louis.

Deputy U.S. Marshal Tony DeLuca accepts the assignment to bring Kate to the trial, remembering how her strength impressed him. While in Shelter Cove, however, he gets a call from his chief, advising them to stay in Shelter Cove until a new development in the case can be straightened out. But when Kate's safety is threatened, Tony must race against the clock to keep her alive and put this ugly case to rest before anyone else gets killed.

About the Author:

Nancy Mehl lives in Festus, Missouri, with her husband Norman, and her very active puggle, Watson. She's authored fifteen books and is currently at work on a new romantic suspense series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy's novels have an added touch - something for your spirit as well as your soul. "I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing," Nancy says. "It's a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn't be writing at all if I didn't believe that this is what He's called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can't overcome with His help."

You can find out more about Nancy by visiting her Web site at: www.nancymehl.com or find her newsletter at: www.nancymehl.blogspot.com. She also is active on the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com and on FaceBook!

Don't forget to check out Fatal Frost, book 1 in the Defenders of Justice series.

Mehl Ramps Up the Suspense in This Brand-New U.S. Marshals Series
Mercy Brennan followed in her father's footsteps in a law enforcement career, but she has no interest in any other connection to him. A U.S. Marshal in St. Louis, Missouri, she's assigned to a joint task force with the St. Louis PD that puts her back into contact with her father and in the sights of St. Louis's most powerful gang.

When the gang has reason to believe Mercy has possession of some highly sensitive and incriminating information, her boss assigns Mark St. Laurent--a Deputy U.S. Marshal and Mercy's ex-boyfriend--to get her out of town until they can guarantee her safety.

Initially unaware of the danger she's in and uncomfortable working with Mark, Mercy's frustration escalates when she discovers the extent her boss and Mark have been keeping her in the dark. It isn't until a freak ice storm hits, stranding them at a remote location and out of contact with the district office, that the full severity of their situation becomes clear. As the storm worsens, the forces of nature combine with a deadly enemy closing in to put their lives at imminent risk. Can they survive long enough for help to arrive--if help is even coming at all?

Summer Solstice Presents: That Summer Day vol. 1 & A NEW Sadie K. Frazier story!

2017-06-20T10:09:00.001-05:00

That Summer Day Vol. 1

A day where the sun seems to shine forever, spring gives way to summer and everyone is celebrating with picnics, playing on the beach, and just having fun. Stories about this day are yours from eight very talented authors.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B072VTJKD7

Fun in the sun turns into a nightmare after a murder.

A summer reunion ignites romance.

City vs Country: which one will prevail?

Goldilocks and Baby Bear like you’ve never seen them before

A promise leaves them wondering about the future.

Summer Solstice on a distant planet provides adventure, romance, and mystery for two, star-crossed lovers.

Can a stranger save her?

The fate of the world lies with a conflicted angel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfdwG2q0LBE&feature=youtu.be

The longest day of the year. Fun in the sun. Renewing friendships. Continuing traditions. Adventures of all sorts. K.A. Meng, Debbie De Louise, Stephy Smith, Justin Herzog, K.C. Sprayberry, Candace Sams, Margaret Scott, and Alex Pilalis bring you stories to entertain on this very special day.

And a very special story…

In a split second, the future Keaghan Graham dreamt of shattered into a million pieces, along with the remnants of his broken heart.

He escapes in search of an end to the inconceivable pain he feels after an unimaginable loss.

Will a chance meeting with a triad of Magical beings give his life purpose again?

He learns that nothing happens, simply by chance.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B072VSYCL6

Every twist in fate will reveal his destiny in the exact preordained moment in time it was meant to.

They are preparing Keaghan to become one of the twelve warriors of the Zodiac Illuminaries of Ravenokh.

Will he rise to the challenge and accept the call of the universe?

Enlightenment awaits just beyond the Cusp of Magic.

Spell Caster by Leah Hamrick - a New Voice in New Adult

2017-06-01T23:26:00.001-05:00

Song Stuck on the Brain: Little Einstein's Theme song. Mighty Max loves this show. :)

Spell Caster

Leah Hamrick

About the Book:

Three paranormal short stories. One sweet, one dark, one fun. Which one will be your favorite?

Love Caster: There is nothing greater than pure, sweet love, and that’s something Anna Bowden knows all about. While trying to get the courage to kiss her boyfriend Killian, she has to deal with her overbearing dad, who will stop at nothing to tear them apart.

In the Darkness: After Anna Bowden witnesses someone—or something—lurking in her backyard, it starts a chain of frightening events that leads to a gruesome discovery.

First Holiday: Featuring the characters from Frost On My Pillow—be prepared for a sweet, fun, wild ride. While Ethan gives Lyla—who has never celebrated Christmas before— the task of finding out the true meaning of the holiday, he surreptitiously tries to tell her how he really feels, but before that can occur, a lot of decorating and snowball fights has to happen!

My Take:

Leah Hamrick is a fresh new voice in New Adult fiction. Her unique twist includes a younger main character dealing with more adult themes. Although I enjoy fantasy, paranormal isn't usually my first choice, but I found Love Caster to be a fun first love type of story. If you enjoy stories with witchcraft, this would be for you.

In the Darkness is a sequel to Love Caster and although the story was good, it was too scary for me! LOL, I was seriously creeped out. I guess the author did her job and nailed that theme. It was an interesting twist, but a shock after Love Caster.

First Holiday follows a different cast, and was a cute look at Christmas through the eyes of someone who has never experienced it. The romance and theme are sweet, but all of the stories stay well within the New Adult category. Nothing too steamy, but more than you might anticipate for a cast so young.

About the Author:

Leah Hamrick lives in Michigan with her partner in crime husband Jon, young daughter Khloey, and plethora of reptiles, fish, and a tree frog named Sticky. She can always be found with her nose in a YA book, daydreaming and thinking up new ideas for a story, and trying to figure out how to make a characters chemistry clash with one another’s. She is a fan of romance, and anything paranormal. She gets the inspiration for her stories from things that have happened in her real life—except the paranormal/fantasy aspect… She wishes she were that awesome! She enjoys listening to heavy metal music, traveling, watching bad reality TV, and everything pink. She hopes that one day she can be become a well known author, and to keep writing stories for everyone to enjoy for years to come

I received a free copy of Spell Caster in return for my honest opinion.

Giveaway! Plots & Schemes vol. 1 - Win 1 of 3 copies!

2017-05-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

Enter to win! That’s all you have to do. Solstice Publishing is celebrating Plots & Schemes Vol. 1 becoming a best seller in Germany during its release by giving away three autographed copies of the print edition of this fabulous anthology.

https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/237966-plots-schemes-vol-1

All you have to do is click on the Goodreads link between May 26 and June 9 and enter. It’s that simple. Once the contest ends, Goodreads will notify us of the winners names and you will receive your copy.

Her child vanishes in a puff of smoke.

When Murder is on the Itinerary

An eavesdropped comment leads to an impossible scheme!

Mysterious events pull Dana into danger.

A rock star’s murder leaves Emlyn Goode questioning everything she knows about herself.

Murder most foul puts this cop to the test

One murder, one plan, two possible outcomes.

Losing your mind is scary...

If you're not at the beach, the Tough Luck stories will take you there.

Trail Town Texas leans heavily on their sheriff

Murder, kidnapping, mysterious events, and more are our treat to you in this wonderful anthology from Solstice Publishing. Discover the talents of K.C. Sprayberry, Debbie De Louise, Donna Alice Patton, E.B. Sullivan, Susan Lynn Solomon, Johnny Gunn, K.A. Meng, Leah Hamrick, Lois Crockett, and Stephy Smith.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B072L7KZ6K

Here’s a little taste of what you’ll find inside this intriguing book!

A smile was on his face. Despite the fact that he was supposed to connect with the egg donor of this lovely child, he had no thoughts of doing that or returning the kid at the appointed time. His timing was perfect. The child—Lanie is such an idiotic name; I’ll have to come up with another one—would be five in a few days. In time, she would forget there had been his loser ex in her life. She—Sheila will regret divorcing me—had battered through his training, all he’d gone through to make her a compliant and complacent wife. She’d run away after he ordered her to get an abortion.

Good thing the bitch ignored me. I wouldn’t have this gorgeous child to raise to be like me.

Granted the child was weak now, but he would fix that, as soon as he made sure they vanished forever. No one would stop him from raising his daughter as he saw fit, and that meant keeping her away from her weakling of a mother.

Quietly, Mark Jannson, scion of the globally famous Jannson family, whose assets numbered in the billions, removed anything he considered important from his lavishly furnished thirty room mansion located in the mountains above Denver. His mother’s jewels were carefully packed into a leather satchel, to be given to his daughter, if she remained true to the Jannson name. The woman who called herself his mother had been consigned to a hovel in the southeast somewhere, once she showed her true colors by attempting to take him from his father.

“Let the bitch live in poverty the rest of her life,” he whispered.

https://youtu.be/3xUn1SZZrF8

Starting May 26, 2017, simply click on the link provided and enter. If you aren’t a member of Goodreads, you can join easily. This is a great place to discover books by new and exciting authors and be in on the fun of all sorts of entertainment!

Fun and Addictive series from Rachael Tamayo

2017-04-17T23:26:00.002-05:00

The Friend-Zone Series

Rachael Tamayo

My Take:

Bravo, Rachael Tamayo! The Friend-Zone series was fun and addictive. After reading Adrienne's adventure into romance with her best friend Clint in Chase Me, I was sure I could never sympathize with Adrienne's sister, Ashley. The author did a great job of bringing Ashley to life and showing the real woman she is in book 2 Reach for Me. Ashley's romance with Shane is a page turner. All three novels were. Chloe and Micah may seem like an obvious match from book one forward, but the twist in their story made the journey in their relationship an exciting read and certainly not predictable. I can't wait to see more from this very talented author.

I received a copy of this collection free in return for my honest review. The only reason it has received four stars instead of five, is because of the amount of typos I found. That's not something I would usually even mention, but since many readers/reviewers find this to make reading more difficult, I wanted to note it. I don't believe it hinders the enjoyment of the story, so please don't miss out on a great read.

About the Books:

Loving your friends is one thing, falling in love is something totally different. For these six people, finding themselves in the friend zone proves to be a problem they weren't prepared for. Follow three couples in their journey to escape friendship and find true love in the Friend-Zone Series Boxed Set.

Book one: Chase Me

Adrienne Lawrence loves her friends. It seems, however, that she doesn’t get along with her family as well. One hot Texas summer, Adrienne manages to fall headfirst over her own big mouth when she lies to her Mom about a long term boyfriend in efforts to squelch her Mom’s nasty comments about having a date for a family wedding.

Clint Montgomery, one of her best friends, kindly steps in agreeing to play the part of the devoted boyfriend during a week-long venue wedding across the country.

After a week of pretend kisses and smoldering looks, the lines between what is fake and what is real seem to become fuzzy. The only problem is, Adrienne doesn’t want to become one of the women that Clint leaves in his wake, but fighting what she’s feeling is becoming almost impossible.

Book two: Reach for Me

When Ashley’s high society life crumbles around her in the space of one afternoon, she’s forced to swallow her pride and move back home to Dallas. Having lost both her husband and her career, she takes up a job at her father’s restaurant under her little sister Adrienne’s management. After months living with her parents, she decides to move in with her coworker and friend, Shane. Ashley vows to never let a man cause her life to come crashing down around her ever again. Never will feelings cause her to make “stupid decisions.”

Of course, that's before she knew Shane. Can she resist his charms? Not to mention, blue eyes, tattoos, and a ride on his motorcycle.

Book three: Claim Me

Who will claim her heart once and for all? A hot Spanish purring blond or a life-long friend with deep eyes and a heart to match?

Chloe, ever the “good girl” among her close knit group of friends, that is until Brandon comes along. For the first time, Chloe forgoes the wait for love and lets her hormones take the lead. After the fling takes it course, he moves away and life goes on.

Of course, that includes her close friend Micah. Her brother’s best friend and the man she’s crushed on since she was fourteen years old. Micah’s only grown hotter as he blossomed from an awkward teen into a full grown man, and now that they are roommates, things heat up quickly.

There’s only one problem. Just as things start to finally combust between the friends after years of holding back, Chloe’s fling comes back to haunt her in a big way. She’s pregnant with Brandon’s baby.

Now torn between the man she’s loved most of her life or the man that’s fathered her child and stirred up a heat in her that doesn’t seem to be extinguished, Chloe has a choice to make.

About the Author:

Who am I? I'm a police dispatcher/ 911 operator, and a romance writer. I'm a wife and mother. I live in the Houston, TX area with my husband of twelve years and our three year old son. We all live happily with our yellow Lab, Daisy and our African Grey parrot, Sassy,

When I'm not writing or working, you can usually find me at home enjoying quality time with my husband and son, or maybe a large family get together with my fantastic extended family.

Find me on Social Media

Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon, Pinterest

WIN FREE EBook - Justice Redeemed Giveaway!

2017-04-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

The single release is here and to celebrate I'm giving three lucky winners a copy of Justice Redeemed the eBook! This is the latest entry in my Heroes in Justice series, but reads well as a stand alone short story if you're new to the series. Take a chance and find a Hero!

Simply complete at least ONE of the options listed to enter. Complete extra option for additional entries.

Be sure to share this with all your friends and loved ones too, this contest ends Friday, April 21, 2017 at midnight. Good Luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Check out the rest of the Heroes in Justice series shown below http://viewauthor.at/AmazonAprilErwin

Cover Reveal! Justice Redeemed goes Solo

2017-04-06T00:09:00.001-05:00

If you purchased the Renewal of Faith vol. 1 to read Justice Redeemed - thank you! If you were waiting for the single, then wait no more! It's ready for purchase in eBook and paperback. :)

I love this cover, it tugs on my heart strings and I hope that it gives you a peek into what Carl feels when he finds that precious baby on his doorstep.

Have you ever wondered what you would do if it happened to you? It's a big question and for Carl it brings up a past he'd put behind him. I can't wait for you all to read Carl and Alison's story. Redemption is a powerful thing.

getBook.at/JusticeRedeemed

Click here to get your copy today and thank you so much for your support. If you enjoy the story, please let others now by spreading the word. :)

Solstice Publishing: Stories of Faith that Will Touch Your Soul

2017-03-30T23:26:00.000-05:00

Easter celebrates the resurrection of Christ; a renewal of the faith so many hold so close. Those who believe take the time to reflect on their blessings and honor their Lord. These stories show faith tested and renewed during this special season. Will they hold dear to that faith or stumble?

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B06XY6ZZHX

Old friends… New danger

Pioneer Easter, new beginnings

A Heaven sent smile to believe

Bereft of faith Anton returns home

The Story of Faith and Courage

Some things can be changed

Will Melinda discover her inner strength?

Faith tested and renewed in many different ways. An abandoned child; two people must trust all will turn out right. A family moving west following bigotry. Hope lost; a yearning to believe. A return home to discover faith. Faith and renewal versus loss and grief. Her rocky path leads her home. A teen struggles for answers.

April Erwin, Eden S. Clark, Donna Patton, E.B. Sullivan, J.E. & Carla Holling and Jeannie Anderson, Leah Hamrick, and K.C. Sprayberry present stories of strength and hope, of struggle and desolation, of returning to what has always sustained them.

BONUS!

As an extra special added bonus, we also present Notes On A Cowslip Flower by Solstice Publishing author Chrystal Vaughan.

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B06XXZYN3R

Where do you put your faith?

When ChrissyBell loses the only father she has ever known, will his teachings and faith sustain her? Childhood can be such a confusing time, especially when your biological father is absent. Christina (ChrissyBell to her closest friend) never knew hers, but Universe sent a replacement in the form of Indian Jim, who taught her the ways of his people. Her life path, and spirituality, were written in the lines of his hands and the words on the petals of flowers.

New Release! Justice Redeemed by April Erwin

2017-03-29T00:19:00.002-05:00

Good news! A new Heroes in Justice short story is releasing on March 31, 2017! Justice Redeemed is releasing initially as part of A Renewal of Faith vol. 1, a collection of faith renewing short stories published by Solstice Publishing. (It will release as a single at a later date.)

I'm so excited to share this story with you. Carl is a Justice Fire Department paramedic. (He was briefly mentioned in Justice Burning, book 1.) Carl lived a complicated life until he met Jesus and made a covenant with his Savior. Now, just as life is going so well, a chapter from his past has returned to turn his life upside down.

Alison and Carl's relationship and personal journeys were so important to me to share. It's easy to point to Carl as the Hero in this story, but I love that the title Hero can be shared with Alison as well. She's a different type of hero, but just as important. I think that's true of all the stories in the series so far. Aidan and Morgan in Justice Burning, Cam and Trix in A Volunteer Christmas, and Keegan and Emily in The Power of Love. Each show that being a hero comes in many forms and identities. It's a matter of asking God, "What's your plan for me? How can I serve you in the lives of those around me?" Just be prepared - the answer is often not what you anticipated! LOL.

That is where the adventure and suspense comes in. It's exciting, a bit scary, and completely eye opening. I hope that as you read Justice Redeemed and the other books in the Heroes in Justice series, you find a reflection of that journey with the Savior.

Be sure to check out all the inspiring stories this Easter. Available March 31, 2017 at Amazon.com.

Giveaway and Guest Author at Rebecca's Write Inspirations

2016-10-20T09:51:00.001-05:00

Author Rebecca Reddell hosted me on her blog Rebecca's Write Inspirations. I had a blast chatting with her and now we're giving away a FREE copy of my e-book Justice Burning. Hop on over to Rebecca's to read all the fun and don't forget to enter to win! :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Netgalley: No Way Up by Mary Connealy

2016-08-24T14:43:00.000-05:00

Song Stuck on the Brain: The Ants Go Marching... I was singing it with my great-nephew and niece this morning and I'm still singing about those militant ants. :)

No Way Up

Mary Connealy

MY TAKE:

I signed on early with Netgalley.com to get the opportunity to read and review Mary's latest adventure/laugh riot cowboy romance. Love her books. Unfortunately, there were technical issues and although I was able to download the e-book, pages were missing. A LOT of pages. This was a prerelease file so I decided if I wanted to read the story and not guess at what 5 missing pages had said, I should buy the eBook. So I did. BEST choice ever. Supported the author's sales AND I got a perfect file. YES!!

So, how did I like the Cimarron Ranch, you ask? It was awesome. Mary weaves her settings flawlessly. It's great to see the appearance of Heath Kincaid and follow his story arc not only to romance, but love and understanding in several different relationships. The story has depth and heart that isn't always obvious in the moment because your too busy slapping your knee with laughter, but that heart and strength is what proves them all wrong when they're sure there is No Way Up.

Loved it and the prequel The Boden Birthright. Great new adventure for long time Connealy fans or for those just discovering her.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The Fight for the Cimarron Ranch Has Just Begun!
When Cimarron ranch patriarch Chance Boden is caught in an avalanche, only the quick actions of hired hand Heath Kincaid save him. Before leaving by train to receive treatment to save his leg--and possibly his life--Chance demands that Heath read the patriarch's will and see its conditions enforced immediately. If Chance's three bickering adult children, Justin, Sadie, and Cole, don't live and work at the home for an entire year, ownership of the ranch will pass to a despised distant relative.

Before long, however, Heath discovers that the avalanche may have been intentionally set--and that more danger lurks ominously. Finding his own future--and a desired future with Sadie--locked up in saving the Cimarron Ranch, Heath and the Boden siblings must work together against outside forces that threaten them all.

Don't forget to read the prequel novella The Boden Birthright. (Easily read after, but better read first.)

After the death of his wife, prosperous businessman Chance Boden heads west along the Santa Fe Trail with his son to escape the powerful, controlling hands of his in-laws. He has plans to establish his own ranch, but instead he finds work with Frank Chastain, owner of a vast amount of land.

Chance doesn't want to work for anyone, but Frank's beautiful daughter gives him reason to delay buying his own holdings. With winter coming, no home in which to live, and Veronica's offer to care for young Cole while Chance learns the ways of successful ranching in the desert, Chance has little choice but to accept the Chastains' offer to stay on.

When Frank is attacked, his dying wish is that Chance marry his daughter, but after dealing with his in-laws, Chance isn't going to let anyone come between him and his son. Then Frank's precarious hold on the land he received as part of an old Spanish Land Grant forces Frank to make a desperate choice to save Veronica's inheritance--and also gives the men who attacked Frank reason to come after him.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Connealy is the bestselling author of romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Carol Award winner and a Rita and Christy and IRCC Award Finalist.

She is the author of The Cimarron Legacy series, Trouble in Texas series, Swept Away, Fired Up and Stuck Together, The Kincaid Brides Series, Out of Control, In Too Deep and Over the Edge.
The Sophie’s Daughters Series, Doctor in Petticoats, a Rita Award finalist,Wrangler in Petticoats and Sharpshooter in Petticoats. These three books are now contained in the single volume Sophie’s Daughters Trilogy. The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now available in the single volume Montana Marriages Trilogy. The Wild West Wedding series Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist, and In Too Deep. The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.

She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing, a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances. She is one of the four authors contributing to Alaska Brides Collection with her Carol Award Winning historical romance
Golden Days along with Tracie Peterson, Cathy Marie Hake and Kathleen Y’Barbo.

She had published two ebook Christmas novella collections. A Home for Christmas with Robin Lee Hatcher and Candlelight Christmas with Linda Goodnight. And with a pseudonym she has published the romantic thriller Ten Plagues and she has republished three out of print books Bury the Lead, Fright at the Museum
and Trial and Terror, three lighthearted cozy mysteries formerly published as the Nosy in Nebraska series under the titles Of Mice…and Murder, Pride and Pestilence and The Miceman Cometh.

Find Mary online at:

Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Blog
My Website

I initially received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.

God Made You Just Right!

2016-08-09T21:51:00.000-05:00

Song Stuck on the Brain: You Are My Sunshine - the song I sing to all my babies. :)

God Made You Just Right

Board book

Jill Roman Lord, Author

Amy Wummer, Illustrator

MY TAKE:

Small but a Fighter!

When my niece told me her baby boy would be born with physical complications I felt my heart catch. Then I told her what I knew was true in my heart. Jesus was holding her baby in the palm of His hand. However he was born, God had a plan for this little boys life. Numerous conditions were presented and ruled out. The final diagnosis, Tetralogy of Fallot. This beautiful little premie boy had a hole in his heart that would not close on it's own, he would need open heart surgery. Possibly more than one. In addition, he also has dextrocardia - his heart grew in on the wrong side of his chest. (I tell him that means his heart will always be in the 'right' place.) He also has scoliosis. He is the most beautiful and precious baby I've held in years (beside his cousin of course!)

Because of his heart conditions his breathing is labored and he struggles to keep fluid off his lungs. Eating is a challenge and a feeding tube has to load him with calories to help him grow big and strong so he can handle surgery. It hasn't been enough. So in just a few days they will perform his first surgery - a band on his pulmonary artery to ease his labored breathing so eating is not such a challenge.

Cousins only one month apart in age. No matter how
big or small - God made you JUST right!

When I was offered the chance to review God Made You Just Right by Jill Roman Lord, I immediately thought of my tiny heart baby. What a perfect book to reinforce the message I wanted him to grow up with. Despite your differences physically - God made you just right and you are loved. I signed up immediately. When the book arrived, I held 2 month old Max in my arms and read him the simple story, showing him the pictures as I went. He was enthralled. He SMILED! And my heart soared! A sweet, simple message with colorful images. It was perfect.

They don't use the term "half-sibling".
God made them just right as brother
and sister this way.

After reading it the youngest I began to think how this very simple message is important to all of us. Max's cousin Ryan is a month older but double in size. He's a large strong baby. At 3 months his head measured 17.5 inches - only 2 inches smaller than his four year old big sister! Large heads and tall frames run in his family. He will most likely always be much bigger than his friends for many years. He'll get teased for his big head (despite him being adorable) and he needs the reminder that God made him large for a purpose too.

Our family is one built of love more than blood. There are adopted siblings, half siblings, foster siblings and family that's family because we chose to make them that way. That is becoming more common every day and I'm glad to see God's message being shared in such a sweet way.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

A bright and cheerful reminder that God made each of us special and unique

Here is a message that every parent will want to share with his or her child: You're brilliantly created and there s no one else like you! With easy-to-understand descriptions and simple, rhyming text, Jill Roman Lord shares the message that God created each of us in just the right way in a manner that even the youngest child will understand. Bright and engaging illustrations from Amy Wummer pair perfectly with the text and enhance the appeal of the book. Ages 2-5.

Jill Roman Lord

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jill Roman Lord is an author, a freelance writer, and nurse anesthetist. She enjoys running with her golden Retriever, Poppie, in Charlotte, NC, golfing with her hubby and son, sipping coffee, shopping with her girls when they’re around, traveling, and hanging on the back porch with family and friends

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:

Amy Wummer

Amy Wummer is an award-winning children’s book illustrator of over fifty titles. She received the Highlights for Children Cover of the Year award in 1998 and 2007, the 2006 Paterson Prize for Books for Young People, Highlights for Children Illustrator of the Month award in October 2003 and November 2007, and was a 2002 Gold Medallion Book Award finalist.

I received a free copy of this book from Wothry Kids/Ideals in exchange for my honest review.