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Tuesday, November 29, 2022

CHECK THIS OUT - Strike to the Heart series by Danielle Grandinetti, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 

Strike to the Heart Series JustRead Blog Blitz

Welcome to the Blog Blitz for the Strike to the Heart series by Danielle Grandinetti, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOKS


To Stand in the Breach

Title: To Stand in the Breach

Series: Strike to the Heart

Author: Danielle Grandinetti

Publisher: Hearth Spot Press

Release Date: September 13, 2022

Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense, Christian

She came to America to escape a workhouse prison, but will the cost of freedom be too high a price to pay?

1933, Wisconsin - Large animal veterinarian Katy Wells takes her patients’ welfare personally, so it’s no surprise when she stands up to angry farmers planning a milk strike or takes in an injured draft horse to save its life.But after a visitor from the past discovers her location and reveals a threat, she must choose between her work and her freedom, and whether to trust a man to keep her safe.

To Stand in the Breach is the prequel novella to A Strike to the Heart, releasing April 2022.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBubStrike to the Heart


Title: A Strike to the Heart

Series: Strike to the Heart

Author: Danielle Grandinetti

Publisher: Hearth Spot Press

Release Date: September 13, 2022

Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense, Christian

She’s fiercely independent. He’s determined to protect her.

Wisconsin, 1933―When a routine mission becomes an ambush that kills his team, Craft Agency sniper Miles Wright determines to find the persons responsible and protect the woman he rescued. But the fierce independence that led Lily Moore to leave her family’s dairy business for the solitary life of a dog trainer and the isolation of her farm don’t make that easy. Neither does his unwanted attraction to her. Meanwhile, escalating incidents confirm that she’s far from safe.

Lily fears letting the surprisingly gentle retired marine into her life almost as much as she fears whoever is threatening her. As Wisconsin farmers edge toward another milk strike, one that will surely turn violent, it becomes clear that the plot against Lily may be part of a much larger conspiracy. When the search for her abductor leads close to home, she must decide whether to trust her family or the man who saved her life.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBubAs Silent as the Night


Title: As Silent as the Night

Series: Strike to the Heart

Author: Danielle Grandinetti

Publisher: Hearth Spot Press

Release Date: September 13, 2022

Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense, Christian

He can procure anything, except his heart’s deepest wish. She might hold the key, if she’s not discovered first.

Chicago, 1933―Lucia Critelli will do anything for her ailing grandfather, including stand in a breadline to have enough food to make him a St. Nicholas Day meal. When she catches the eye of a goon who threatens her grandfather, she discovers the end of Prohibition doesn’t mean the end of the mafia’s criminal activity.

Retired Marine Scout Giosue “Gio” Vella can find anything, especially if it helps a fellow Italian immigrant, so he has no doubt he can locate his neighbor’s granddaughter, who has gone missing from a local church. Keeping her safe is another matter. Especially when he chooses to hide out with his Marine buddy in Eagle, Wisconsin, the site of a barely-held truce among striking dairy farmers.

Will Christmas bring the miracle they all need or will Gio discover there are some things even he can’t find, particularly when he stumbles upon the most elusive gift of all: love.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Danielle Grandinetti

Danielle Grandinetti is author of the Strike to the Heart series and a book blogger at DaniellesWritingSpot.com. Her short stories have appeared in several publications and her writing has won the University of Northwestern Distinguished Faith in Writing Award. Originally from the Chicagoland area, she now lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline with her husband and their two young sons. Danielle especially loves quiet mornings served with the perfect cup of tea.

Connect with Danielle by visiting daniellegrandinetti.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


TO STAND IN THE BREACH


Excerpt


He found her.


Desperately clutching the paper, Dr. Katy Wells slipped into the sheltered area between two of the buildings at the center of the small town of Eagle, Wisconsin. She placed a gloved hand on the worn plank wall of Town Hall and squeezed her eyes shut to block out the words on the letter. Fear’s insidious claws sank into her chest. Fourteen years of running, of staying one step ahead of her uncle and other men who wished her harm … and she’d finally found security here, in this town, hidden as it was in the middle of the United States. 


Until today.




TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of the Strike to the Heart series and a tote bag featuring a dairy cow.

Strike to the Heart JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 29, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 6, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours


Saturday, November 26, 2022

My Thoughts - His Delightful Lady Delia Author: Grace Hitchcock

 

About the Book

Book: His Delightful Lady Delia

Author: Grace Hitchcock

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: November 1, 2022

Behind the curtain, she must put on the performance of a lifetime . . . while love and risk take center stage.

Delia Vittoria’s mother has lost her voice at last. After five years of being her diva mother’s understudy, it is time for Delia to assume her place as the lead soprano onstage behind the Academy of Music’s faded velvet curtain. And she is all that stands between the Academy and its greatest threat–the nouveaux riches’ lavish new Metropolitan Opera House.

Kit Quincy never misses opening night, but when his sister begs him to help get her husband out of an Italian opera star’s arms, Kit accidentally confronts the younger Lady Vittoria instead. When he meets the stunning young diva again, he attempts to make amends, but then finds himself pulled into a society matron’s plot to win the great opera war. To draw attention to Delia Vittoria as the Academy’s new soprano star, Kit is convinced to act as both Delia’s patron and the enigmatic phantom who once haunted the Academy years ago. But when a second phantom appears, more than Delia’s rising career is threatened.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Grace Hitchcock (www.gracehitchcock.com) is the award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a master’s degree in creative writing and a bachelor of arts in English with a minor in history. Grace lives in the New Orleans area with her husband, Dakota, and their sons and daughter.

 

More from Grace

I’m pretty certain every author started as an avid reader who dreamed of how they would change an ending or change who the heroine ended up with if they could write the book instead. (Anyone else think Theodore Laurence should have married Jo March?) It’s that ever-beautiful question of “what if” that has haunted some of my favorite stories and often drives my own stories to spark to life.

 

I first discovered The Phantom of the Opera as a child and fell in love with the beauty of the Broadway musical, a love that continued into my adulthood. So, when I was researching ideas for Book Three in the American Royalty series and I stumbled upon the great opera-house wars between the new money’s opera house and the Academy’s elite opera house, the “what if” sequence began and I knew I had to write my version of a phantom-of-the-opera story. Then when I researched the Italian opera company, I grew even more excited, as I’m from a large Italian family. And when I say large, I mean it’s not uncommon for our smallest gatherings to be only forty people, and when the whole krewe is together, we need a large facility to house us all. I’ve also visited New York and Italy and felt I could add some authenticity to the Italian characters in my novel, which brings me to the leading lady—a delightful opera singer named Delia Vittoria, who takes a beloved hero from Book One in My Dear Miss Dupré, Kit Quincy, by surprise.

 

I knew from Kit’s character that if he’d met the woman he was meant to wed, nothing would have stopped him in his pursuit, so I knew I had to introduce a new heroine instead of a lady introduced in Book One. It is rather daring to bring in a new lead in the third book of a series without some form of introduction in prior novels, but I felt Kit’s character warranted it. Kit is by far the “oldest” hero I have written about to date, and to my delight, he captured my heart with his genuine soul and fierce devotion toward the woman he loves. Because of his age and personal experience, I felt that Kit could be a wonderful example of true, godly love to a woman who has seen almost nothing but poor imitations. I hope that you will enjoy their journey toward love and my nod to The Phantom of the Opera! Happy reading, friends!

My Thoughts

His Delightful Lady Delia is written by Grace Hitchcock. This is book three in the American Royalty series. I have not read the other books in the series, and I did not have any issues following along. The author has done a wonderful job in transporting us to the past - and you will be drawn in within the first few pages. This reminds me of The Phantom of the Opera with a twist. 

Delia Vittoria has been her mother's understudy and she finally gets her chance when her mother loses her voice. Her mother is a well known opera singer. Kit Quincy feels he is too old for love. He has some hurt and baggage. He was introduced in a previous book - and got his chance for his story to be told. He has an interesting encounter with Delia to start with - and when he realizes his error he is captivated by her. 

The story had mystery, romance and historical details throughout the story. The characters are well developed. The storyline intriguing. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own. 


Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 19

Melissa’s Bookshelf, November 19

Texas Book-aholic, November 20

Inklings and notions, November 21

The Book Club Network, November 21

deb’s Book Review, November 22

For Him and My Family, November 22

Girls in white dresses, November 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 23

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 24 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 25

Holly’s Book Corner, November 25

Remembrancy, November 26

Connie’s History Classroom, November 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 27

Book Looks by Lisa, November 28

Cover Lover Book Review, November 28

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 30

Blogging With Carol, December 1

Back Porch Reads, December 1

Splashes of Joy, December 2

Through the Fire Blogs, December 3

Labor Not in Vain, December 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Grace is giving away the grand prize package of a $30 e-gift card to Baker Book House and a paperback copy of all three books in the American Royalty series: My Dear Miss Dupré, Her Darling Mr. Day, and His Delightful Lady Delia!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/22ec4/his-delightful-lady-delia-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

My Thoughts -Matters of the Heart Author: Heidi Gray McGill

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Matters of the Heart

Title: Matters of the Heart
Author: Heidi Gray McGill
Publisher: Heidi Gray McGill Books LLC
Release Date: July 26, 2022
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction, Christian Historical Romance

She determines to champion the needs of others, no matter the fallout.

He’s determined to be his own man and make his own way.

Will stubbornness keep them from discovering God’s best?

Unconventional Katie empathizes with the widows and orphans of the Civil War who are searching for a place to call home in Shumard Oak Bend. But with no one to help her, she’ll need to do it secretly, a challenge she readily accepts. Katie’s taken charge before, and she’ll do it again, no matter whom she has to outwit to get the job done.

Hans vows to stop doing everyone else’s bidding. But he follows orders when a pair of emerald green eyes, blazing red hair, and freckles that dance on the bridge of a pert nose conscript him to duty. Be his own man. Who is he kidding? Skunks don’t change their stripes. They leave disasters in their wake wherever they go, just like him.

Overcoming personal obstacles and finding your true self doesn’t mean going it alone. Yet the answer isn’t always in the one you seek.

True Christian Fiction. Relatable Characters. Life-changing stories.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heidi Gray McGill

Whether historical or contemporary, you will find Heidi Gray McGill‘s works to be true Christian Fiction, full of God’s redeeming love. Everything Heidi writes is purposeful. She believes in bringing a reader into the awareness of who God is to them and how He interacts with them on a personal level. She does this by crafting characters so relatable you feel part of who they are. Heidi reaches deep into the reader’s heart through masterfully written words and offers ways toward healing by seamlessly applying God’s Word throughout her stories.

Connect with Heidi by visiting her website to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


My Thoughts

Matters is the Heart is written by Heidi Gray McGill. This is part of the Shumard Oak Bend series. I had not read the other books in the series but did it feel lost at all. This book is set right after the Civil War and opens in 1866. The author chose to see the story in Missouri and included great historical details.

Katie has come over from Ireland to live with her aunt in her boarding house. Katie has some big dreams and feels it is her calling to open a orphanage in order to care and help the widows and orphans from the war. Katie however isn’t the most lady-like woman. But her spitfire personality made me like her even more.

Hans feels like a broken failed man. He didn’t see action during the Civil War but was affected a different way. He handled a lot of the deceased individuals. He worked at a field hospital and saw broken and deceased men all day long. He returned to his families farm afterwards but his brothers wife would rather see him off then assisting. Hans isn’t sure what God has in store for him and is afraid to talk to him. Until he meets Reverend on his way to Shumard Oak.

This book has a whole cast of secondary characters that make the book feel complete. The whole town has its own dynamics including the magistrate who will do anything to make sure Katie’s dreams are squashed. The author did a phenomenal job with bringing the town to life. I felt like I was a part of the story. I could see the scenes unfolding In front of my eyes.

I enjoyed seeing the characters all evolve throughout the book. The author places some great scripture in to back up the lesson she is trying to teach. Katie and Hans have an interesting meeting and it kept me laughing throughout the book.

Historically, I felt the author did a good job creating her story as accurate as possible. There were still prejudices that those of different descent faced at this time period. The nation was still healing from a horrible war. There were some that were still stuck in their ways.


Thank you to the author, publisher and  JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this story. All thoughts are my own.



TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive an Amazon Fire 7 tablet.

Matters of the Heart JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 16, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 23, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.


ENTER: HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours


Monday, November 14, 2022

My Thoughts - A Fallen Sparrow Author: Lynne Basham Tagawa

 


About the Book

Book: A Fallen Sparrow

Author: Lynne Basham Tagawa

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: August 13, 2022

Ruth Haynes uses the pen name Honorius when she writes for her father’s newspaper. Boston has changed beyond recognition, and her Loyalist views soon get her in trouble. With war looming, what will their family do?

Jonathan Russell hides a guilty secret. The Battle of Bunker’s Hill sweeps him and his Shenandoah Valley family into the war. The unthinkable happens, and he’s forced to deal with both his grief—and his guilt.

Lieutenant Robert Shirley is summoned by his godmother and introduced to the Earl of Dartmouth, who charges him to gather intelligence in Boston. He is horrified but must obey.

Gritty, realistic, and rich with scriptural truth, this story features Dr. Joseph Warren, Major John André, Henry Knox, and Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Lynne Tagawa is an educator and author with four sons and five grandchildren. She is the author of a narrative Texas History curriculum, Sam Houston’s Republic, and enjoys writing historical fiction. She lives with her husband in South Texas.

 

More from Lynne

When writing my books, I study all sorts of things: soapmaking, rifles and muskets, and horses. What breeds come to mind when you think of horses?

Here in Texas today, quarter horses are quite common, although you will find a plethora of other types: Arabians, Tennessee Walking horses, Morgans, even Friesens! Interestingly, in the 18th century, the quarter horse did not exist. Thoroughbreds (“hunters”) were fairly common as well as carriage / early draft horses: Cleveland Bays and Canadians. Narragansett pacers were popular as riding horses; George Washington was partial to pacers, and their descendants include the Tennessee Walker. Ponies and mules thrived in the backcountry.

Exotic breeds were imported as well. I included a Friesen stallion in A Fallen Sparrow because—well, because I could. Friesens were part of the ancestry of one of the very first American breeds: the Morgan.

In my stories, the horses all have names and personalities. I hope you enjoy these characters as well as my human ones!


My Thoughts

 A Fallen Sparrow is written by Lynne Basham Tagawa. This is book three in the Russell series. This is the first book that I have read by this author. The author does mention previous events in the book but gives enough back story to not feel lost. The book is well written and the characters are well developed. The author did a great job with research to bring the history of the American Revolution alive. I love that the author showed the struggles that they would have faced. Suddenly Boston is not what it used to be - there are friends pitted against friends, family members versus family members and those who rebelled against the King had their home destroyed. 

I hope to read more from this author. You will be drawn into this story within the first few chapters. The book is a good read. I love reading books that I can learn from also. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own. 


Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 8

Texas Book-aholic, November 9

Holly’s Book Corner, November 9

Inklings and notions, November 10

deb’s Book Review, November 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 12

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 13

Connie’s History Classroom, November 14

Books You Can Feel Good About, November 14

Betti Mace, November 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 16

For Him and My Family, November 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 18

Pause for Tales, November 19

Cover Lover Book Review, November 20

Labor Not in Vain, November 21

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lynne is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card, a signed copy of the book, and handcrafted soap based on the soap a character makes!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/22674/a-fallen-sparrow-celebration-tour-giveaway