Read an excerpt from His Love Revealed by Cynthia Herron (Excerpt & #Giveaway) @justreadtours


Welcome to my tour stop with JustRead Publicity Tours!
You can read an excerpt and enter the tour giveaway below...

His Love Revealed
(Welcome to Ruby #2)
By Cynthia Herron
Christina Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 235 Pages
October 1, 2020 by Mountain Brook Ink

Summary

Will revelations of the past hijack their future? 

Since childhood, Ida Mae Hoscutt, the beloved proprietress of the Come and Get It Diner, has loved Charles “Chuck” Farrow from afar. Now on the eve of her thirty-ninth birthday with no marriage proposal in sight, Ida Mae mourns past mistakes and contemplates a makeover. When a radio commercial wrenches Ida Mae’s heart, will a sudden turn of events sabotage her chance for happiness or will a long-held secret be the answer to love ever-after? 

As Ida Mae’s right-hand man at the Come and Get It, Chuck yearns to shift gears and start over. He’s ready to shelve bachelorhood and blunders in favor of possibilities and new beginnings. When he prepares to move forward, two things challenge his objective. One is the father who walked away and never looked back. The other? A decades-old question that only Ida Mae can answer. 

And Ida Mae isn’t talking.

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt

A few more blocks. He drew in a deep breath. Expelled it. When he faced Ida Mae on her doorstep moments later, misgivings fled. Blonde waves piled high atop her head made her seem taller than her five-feet-two inches, and the red and white polka dot sweater and fashionably faded blue jeans she wore shaved at least six or seven years off her age. Except for the barest few laugh lines adjacent to stunning blue eyes, thirty-nine on this woman didn’t wash. Thirty-one, thirty-two maybe, but almost forty? Nah. Surely not. When the edges of her mouth lifted into the most dazzling smile, words lodged in his throat and wouldn’t come. 

“What’s the matter with you?” Laughter, feminine and full-bodied, rolled past lightly tinted lips and smacked him across the chest. “You expected the pink bathrobe again?” 

“No…I…What you’re wearing is perfect.” Oh, man. Stop ogling her. Good recovery, at least. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wear that sweater before. It really compliments your…you.” Annnd…whop! You blew it. 

“It compliments my me?” 

Great. Now, he’d made her self-conscious. “You’re a beautiful woman, Ida Mae.” 

“Well, thank you.” She stepped aside and motioned for him to come in. “Help me grab a few things and then we can be on our way.” 

“Sure. Happy to.” 

She bounded toward the kitchen, her floral-scented perfume trailing in her wake. As he followed after her, the fragrance tickled his nose and coaxed thoughts best shelved for the time being. “I didn’t mean for you to go to a lot of trouble with the pie.” 

“No trouble. I made it last night so I wouldn’t be rushed this morning.” Thrusting a covered container toward him, she reached for a thermos and a plastic bag of cookies. “Sweet tea and snickerdoodles. I made these ahead too.”

About the Author


Cynthia Herron writes Heartfelt, Homespun Fiction from the beautiful Ozark Mountains. A hopeless romantic at heart, she enjoys penning stories about ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. Her Hope Discovered, her début novel and the first in a three-book series, released December 2018 with Mountain Brook Ink.

“Cindy” has a degree in psychology and a background in social work. She is a member of ACFW, ACFW MozArks, and RWA.

She is a 2020 Selah Award (Double) Finalist, a 2017 ACFW Genesis Finalist, a 2016 ACFW Genesis (Double) Finalist, and a 2015 ACFW First Impressions Winner. Her work is represented by Sarah Freese at WordServe Literary.

Besides writing, Cindy enjoys spending time with family and friends. She has a fondness for gingerbread men, miniature teapots, and all things apple. She also adores a great cup of coffee and she never met a sticky note she didn’t like.


Tour Schedule

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

Tour-Wide Giveaway


(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway will begin at midnight September 29, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on October 6, 2020. 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.


What did you think? Will you be reading this one?

Read an excerpt from Palmer Girl by Dawn Klinge (Excerpt & #Giveaway) @justreadtours


I'm participating in the Blog Blitz & Giveaway for Palmer Girl by Dawn Klinge,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours today. Read an excerpt and enter the giveaway below...

Palmer Girl
(Historic Hotels Collection #2)
By Dawn Klinge
Christian Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 311 Pages
September 29, 2020

Summary

When insurance tycoon, Cornelius Nordeman, is recruited to work for the Exposition Corporation, the New Yorker brings his family to live at the Palmer House Hotel, far away from any reminders of a recent tragedy. He’s hopeful this move will offer respite from his family's grief. 

Elizabeth Nordeman, his daughter, has something to prove, which leads her to seek work as a florist at Marshall Field’s, Chicago's finest department store. 

John Lewis knows something is different and intriguing about the new florist he hired. When his boss, Marshall Field, informs him that Elizabeth is the Nordeman heiress, his job suddenly becomes more complicated--especially when he finds himself falling for her. 

On the eve of the Columbian Exposition of 1893, Chicago prepares to prove that it’s a first-class city, and the brightest minds from around the country will plan the most spectacular fair the world has seen. 

The World’s Fair will bring change and innovation into a society bound tightly by class and tradition. Elizabeth’s heart longs to push against those boundaries, so what’s holding her back?

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt

It was too late to avoid being spotted. The last space on Elizabeth Nordeman’s dance card was about to be filled. Taking one last discreet sip from her glass, she set it on the passing silver tray of a uniformed waiter. Then she turned and smiled politely at the elegant woman and the young man approaching her. They’d made a beeline toward her place at the base of the grand curving staircase where she’d paused to catch her breath after the last quadrille. She’d been hoping to make an early exit and return to her family’s apartment upstairs without anyone noticing.

Drawing near was Bertha Palmer, their hostess, and judging by the determined look on her face, her motives were clear. Every high society woman of Chicago, minus the ones with marriageable daughters of their own, seemed united in her mother’s cause, which was to introduce Elizabeth to every eligible bachelor of high social standing in the city.

About the Author




Dawn Klinge is a Pacific Northwest native who loves a rainy day, a hot cup of coffee, and a good book to get lost in. This wife and mom to two young adults is often inspired by true personal and historical accounts. Dawn is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Association. Sorrento Girl is her debut novel, the first in the Historic Hotels Collection.


Blitz Giveaway


(1) winner will receive a copy of Palmer Girl and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway will begin at midnight September 30, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on October 7, 2020. 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.

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

What did you think of the excerpt? Have you read the first book in this series?

I Can't Wait for... Rebel Rose by Emma Theriault (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #yalit #fantasy


Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here, at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. If you're continuing with WOW, feel free to link those up as well! Find out more here.

I'm a huge Beauty and the Beast fan. I went through a phase years ago where I read every single version I could find (in fact, I really should do a comparison sometime for a post). I haven't loved all of Disney's new versions in YA, but this one isn't a story that's been told before or just in another way. It's a continuation of what happens next. And that sounds fabulous! New territory. This also means the author can really create her own world. It's my pick this week...

Rebel Rose
(The Queen's Council #1)
By Emma Theriault
YA Fantasy, Fairy Tale
Hardcover & ebook, 352 Pages
November 10, 2020 by Disney-Hyperion

Summary

Beauty has broken the curse. Now she must rise to be queen.

Happily ever after is only the beginning as Belle takes on the responsibility of becoming queen and learns to balance duty, love, and sacrifice, all while navigating dark political intrigue-and a touch of magic.

It's 1789 and France is on the brink of revolution. Belle has finally broken the Enchantress's curse, restoring the Beast to his human form and bringing life back to their castle in the province of Aveyon. But in Paris, the fires of change are burning, and it's only a matter of time before the rebellion arrives on their doorstep.

Not so very long ago, Belle dreamed of leaving her provincial home for a life of adventure. But now she finds herself living in a palace, torn between her past as a commoner, and her future as royalty. While Belle grapples with her newfound position, there are those who would do anything to keep her from power.

When she stumbles across a magic mirror that holds a dire warning, Belle wants nothing more than to ignore the mysterious voice calling her to accept a crown she never desired. But violent factions of the revolution may already be lurking within her own castle, and doing nothing would endanger everything she holds dear. With the fate of her country, her love, and her life at stake, Belle must decide if she is ready to embrace her own strength—and the magic that ties her to so many female rulers before her—to become the queen she is meant to be.

Rebel Rose continues the story of one of Disney's most beloved classic Beauty and the Beast. It is the first in the Queen's Council series, an empowering fairy tale reimagining of the Disney Princesses-and the real history behind their stories-like you've never seen before.

(Affiliate links included.)


Will you be reading this one?

On the Run by Traci Hunter Abramson for Teaser Tuesday #teasertuesday @traciabramson @Covenant_Comm #suspense #books


Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by The Purple Booker.
Find all the details over at her blog here.

Here's my teaser today from the book I'm currently reading...

On the Run
(Guardian #4)
By Traci Hunter Abramson
Adult Romantic Suspense
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 296 Pages
October 12, 2020 by Covenant Communications

Summary

As one of the top investigative journalists in the nation, Elle Jameson has a knack for uncovering the truth. So when a promising lead points to corruption on a German military base, Elle anticipates a straightforward assignment. But then she stumbles upon a deadly conspiracy beyond anything she’s faced before, and her scrutiny does not go unnoticed. She knows too much, and she can’t be allowed to live. With no idea where to turn for help, she does the only thing she can: she runs.

The guardians, an elite team of undercover agents, have one job: safeguard those under their protection. As a new guardian, Nolan has just received his first solo assignment to help a young woman who just survived an assassination attempt. Within minutes of making contact with the beautiful journalist, however, their location is discovered. Thus begins a game of cat and mouse spanning the globe as the two work to stay ahead of a determined assassin. Nolan fights to buy Elle time to complete her investigation, and what she discovers is a plot that threatens the very fabric of America. In a desperate race against evil, Nolan and Elle are the only ones who can prevent global catastrophe.

(Affiliate links included.)

Teaser

"I want to stay on the ship without anyone knowing we're here," Nolan corrected. "I bought tickets for us, but we can't take a chance that someone will recognize us as the people that guy was chasing when we were getting on the ferry in Tallinn." - p. 84


What do you think? Does this teaser make you want to read more?

Check out this new YA contemporary release... Pretty Funny for a Girl by Rebecca Elliott + #Giveaway #yalit @jeanbooknerd


Welcome! Check out this new release and enter the giveaway below...

Pretty Funny for a Girl
By Rebecca Elliott
YA Contemporary
Hardcover & ebook, 384 Pages
October 1, 2020 by Peachtree Publishing Company

Summary

A candid and laugh-out-loud journey of family, friends, and fierce mistakes.

Haylah Swinton is an ace best friend, a loving daughter, and an incredibly patient sister to a four-year-old nutcase of a brother. Best of all, she's pretty confident she's mastered making light of every situation--from her mom's new boyfriend to unsolicited remarks on her plus-sized figure. Haylah's learning to embrace all of her curvy parts and, besides, she has a secret: one day, she'll be a stand-up comedian star.

So when impossibly cool and thirstalicious Leo reveals he's also into comedy, Haylah jumps at the chance to ghost-write his sets. But is Leo as interested in returning the favor? Even though her friends warn her of Leo's intentions, Haylah's not ready to listen--and she might just be digging herself deeper toward heartbreak. If Haylah's ever going to step into the spotlight, first she'll need to find the confidence to put herself out there and strut like the boss she really is.

Rebecca Elliott's hilarious and authentic narrative voice is sure to capture readers' hearts as her plus-sized, teenage heroine navigates learning to love the body she's in while dealing with friends, family, and boys.

Praise for PRETTY FUNNY FOR A GIRL

“Elliott, who has previously published picture books and early readers, nails the voice and persona of a high school girl…. A good purchase for libraries that need coming-of-age books centering body-positivity.” ―School Library Journal

“A feel-good story featuring a narrator who’s likable and genuinely funny, even at her most self-deprecating. Dreams, being true to oneself, body-image issues, single parenting, family dynamics, self-confidence, and a realistic depiction of friendship make this a refreshing coming-of-age read full of optimism, dreams, and plenty of stereotype-smashing laughs. A natural pick for Dumplin’ (2015) fans.” ―Booklist  

“Sharp, funny… The working-class British milieu feels freshly wrought, and Elliott’s characters are well balanced… [Haylah’s] comedy routine, though at times self-deprecating, also flips some stereotypes.” ―Publishers Weekly 

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author

Rebecca Elliott was not so much born as assembled from potatoes, cat hair and sarcasm in Suffolk quite a few years ago. A school project of Rebecca's from the age of 6 reads, "When I grow up I want to write and draw books", clearly a precocious little brat but still, if nothing else it proves that when she's made a decision she really can't be bothered to change it. After a 'brief' detour from this career plan involving wanting to be Stephen Fry, a degree in philosophy and a dull office job, she finally got round to doing the whole book thing .

Since then she has become an award-winning (you won’t have heard of the award but come on, that sounds good, right?)and bestselling author of over 30 books for children. These include Just Because, a book about her daughter who had severe special needs and her ongoing series Owl Diaries which has sold 6 million copies worldwide. Her new YA novel, 'Pretty Funny' is due out in March 2020. (Published by Penguin, like actual Penguin. Which is dream-come-true awesome) And her mum really likes it.

When she's not story-making she can be found reading (everyone puts that as a hobby but really, I mean who doesn’t read? Even if its just the TV guide?), loudly venting her issues on the drums, singing in her band, painting pictures only she appreciates, at the movies (again, everyone, right?), podcasting or just hanging out with her husband Matthew (a history teacher), her children (professional monkey-boys), chickens (egg production executives) and cat Bernard (currently unemployed).  

PHOTO CONTENT FROM REBECCA ELLIOTT


Blast Giveaway


- 5 Winners will receive a Copy of PRETTY FUNNY FOR A GIRL Rebecca Elliott.
- Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter | Ends October 19, 2020 

Read an excerpt from The Bonnet Book by Nancy Menees Hardesty (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #yalit @yaboundtourspr


Welcome to my tour stop! Read an excerpt and click over to the giveaway below...

The Bonnet Book
By Nancy Menees Hardesty
YA Historical
Paperback & ebook, 402 Pages
August 1, 2020

Summary

Sent away on an orphan train at fourteen, smart and lovely Blanche Spencer lands in St. Louis, Missouri as a nursemaid, wearing rags and sleeping in a pantry. To rise above her servitude, she begins a self-education program. A trade booth at the 1904 World’s Fair and a Cobden, Illinois apprenticeship launch her into a hat-making career, which she documents in a tiny diary, The Bonnet Book.

An early example of self-determination and girl power, Blanche—now Bonnie—travels alone to the Wild West, where she’s presented with the chance of a lifetime and the possibility of love—both rife with challenges that test her drive, purpose in life, and sense of self.

The Bonnet Book diary and other historical items in the novel are real-life touchstones in this gripping, inspiring story based on the life of the author's grandmother. 

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt
KATY Texas Special
Oklahoma City • Mid-May 1910
… 
As the KATY pulled into the Oklahoma City depot at seven o’clock, Blanche excitedly gathered her carpetbag and purse and hurried down the train steps. St. Louis had a big-city train station; this western city barely had one at all. Wearing her tall black boots, she stepped carefully around the muddy puddles, thinking the storm last night must have also passed through Oklahoma City.

As she walked outside the depot, a buckboard wagon lurched around the corner, splashing the puddles in every direction. The driver, a woman with curly red hair and a wide-brimmed leather hat, stood up, tugging on the reins. The wagon came to a halt a few feet from Blanche, who was startled by not only the commotion but the horse’s loud snorts.

Off jumped the redhead, her wild hair flying behind her. She wore a long, dark skirt, a tailored pale-blue blouse with long sleeves and a white collar, and a dark-blue scarf. It was casually draped around her neck and knotted across her chest.

“Pardon me. Might you be Miss Blanche Spencer?” asked the redhead.

“Why, yes! Who are you?” The woman reminded her of Annie Oakley. She was square-shouldered and square-jawed, with an athletic body.

“I’m Mrs. Ruby Keyes, wife of Willis Keyes. Mr. Robey of St. Louis, a former customer of my husband’s, sent us a telegram asking that we meet your train. I am relieved that you arrived at the time listed in the telegram. Some trains get delayed by Indians, collapsed bridges, or stranded cattle on the tracks.” Blanche’s eyes grew wide with Ruby’s list of predicaments her train had been lucky to avoid. “Let’s get you in the wagon.”

Ruby set down two metal cups of coffee, two tin plates of food, and a jar of berry jam.

“Welcome to breakfast in Oklahoma City!” She smiled and lifted her cup.

Blanche smiled back and gratefully spread jam on a piece of toast. She then began eating the warm eggs with bites of toast. After her first sip of coffee, she breathed deeply, dropped her shoulders, and began to settle into her first Oklahoma meal.

“So, Miss Blanche, what is your job? And who sent you to Oklahoma all by yourself?” asked Ruby.

“I am trained as a milliner—a hatmaker—and I love my work! Apparently Oklahoma City is looking for hatmakers, so my St. Louis boss sent me. I was eager to travel, partly to distance myself from a certain beau. So, I enthusiastically accepted this assignment, and here I am!”

“Such a long trip to make by yourself! I came here two years ago—also from St. Louis—with my husband, Willis. He runs a new livery stable here in Oklahoma City. We also have a small ranch outside the city. I breed horses and train some of them for rental and sale at the livery stable.”

Ruby sipped her coffee and continued.

“Oklahoma City is a boomtown in this new state, and our stable has almost more business than we can handle. Willis also races horses at the nearby racetrack at Wheeler Park, a few blocks from here. Most of our friends are horse people, and horses are pretty much the currency of our lives. Very different from hats!” 

“I’ve never had a girlfriend stay over in our new house. My horsewomen friends are all older than me and rarely come to visit. This frontier city is attracting many adventuresome men but few women. Your visit is like having a cousin or a sister! I am twenty-eight years old and an orphan. I was very lonely as a child. I got introduced to and fell in love with horses, and I married Willis so I could ride his horses!” said Ruby, blushing. “I am happy to have you as a new friend, and I will see to it that you learn to be self-reliant like me.”

Ruby embraced Blanche in a loving hug.

Blanche smiled sleepily as Ruby shut the door. A new prairie sister, she thought, as she drifted off.

The Bonnet Book © 2020 Nancy Menees Hardesty 

About the Author

Nancy Menees Hardesty, born in Illinois and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, moved to San Francisco, California in 1969. Nancy spent six years researching and writing her debut novel, The Bonnet Book. She had various family journals and artifacts and the extensive help of her mother, Mary Kay Menees, who was the daughter-in-law of the book’s protagonist, Bonnie Spencer. The tiny “Bonnet Book” of hat sketches and the wooden hat-supply trunk featured in the book are still in the author’s possession.


Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.

Giveaway

ENTER THE GOODREADS GIVEAWAY HERE


What did you think of the excerpt?

Nothing is as it seems... The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (Review) #TheInheritanceGames #yalit #PlatformYABookClub @jenlynnbarnes @TheNovl @LittleBrownYR

The Inheritance Games
YA Contemporary Mystery, Thriller
Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 384 Pages
September 29, 2020 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Summary

A Cinderella story with deadly stakes and thrilling twists, perfect for fans of One of Us is Lying and Knives Out.

Avery Grambs has a plan for a better future: survive high school, win a scholarship, and get out. But her fortunes change in an instant when billionaire Tobias Hawthorne dies and leaves Avery virtually his entire fortune. The catch? Avery has no idea why--or even who Tobias Hawthorne is. To receive her inheritance, Avery must move into sprawling, secret passage-filled Hawthorne House, where every room bears the old man's touch--and his love of puzzles, riddles, and codes.

Unfortunately for Avery, Hawthorne House is also occupied by the family that Tobias Hawthorne just dispossessed. This includes the four Hawthorne grandsons: dangerous, magnetic, brilliant boys who grew up with every expectation that one day, they would inherit billions. Heir apparent Grayson Hawthorne is convinced that Avery must be a con-woman, and he's determined to take her down. His brother, Jameson, views her as their grandfather's last hurrah: a twisted riddle, a puzzle to be solved. Caught in a world of wealth and privilege, with danger around every turn, Avery will have to play the game herself just to survive.

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

THE INHERITANCE GAMES is a story that is shadowed in mystery from the very beginning as a teenage girl and four boys try to follow the clues as to why she was left their grandfather's vast fortune. A likable protagonist and an intriguing plot will keep readers turning the pages. Definitely recommended to fans of KNIVES OUT and similar mysteries involving rich families with plenty of skeletons in their closets.

I really loved Avery. She's likable and relatable from the start and just really easy to connect with. Her sister, Libby, the four Hawthorne boys, and the rest of the characters are all a bit messed up, honestly. Not that being that way makes them unlikable, but I definitely didn't know who to trust and who I even wanted to like or not like. Libby made me outright mad most of the time. Avery also made me mad here and there. I felt like she easily succumbed to some things when I didn't think she should have. And this house and family... definitely a crazy, twists mess of money, secrets, hidden rooms and compartments, and a trail of breadcrumbs to follow. These four boys were raised to compete, play games, solve puzzles, and be challenged from a young age. It was really interesting seeing their dynamics and roles unfold. I had my personal favorite, but Avery definitely had a mind of her own.

There were a few things thrown in for shock value or political plugs, but otherwise this was entertaining. I'm not really the revenge/dark and twisted, secretive sort, but this definitely held my interest. I enjoyed the constant mystery and undertone of danger.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This is an entertaining read, full of mystery and danger (not all of it life-threatening). It definitely felt a bit nostalgic, like a classical Agatha Christie novel. I'm definitely curious what will enfold in book two, and if it will be just as mysterious as this one.

Content: Some mild swearing, fake expletives, crude references and innuendo.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author


Jennifer Lynn Barnes has written more than a dozen acclaimed young adult novels, including Little White Lies, Deadly Little Scandals, The Lovely and the Lost, and The Naturals series: The Naturals, Killer Instinct, All In, Bad Blood and the e-novella, Twelve. Jen is also a Fulbright Scholar with advanced degrees in psychology, psychiatry, and cognitive science. She received her Ph.D. from Yale University in 2012 and is currently a professor of psychology and professional writing at the University of Oklahoma. You can find her online at http://www.jenniferlynnbarnes.com or follow her on Twitter @jenlynnbarnes.



Do you like mysteries like this with plenty of twists? Will you be reading this one? Did you hear that it will be coming to TV?

Weekly Update #386, 23 pints and 2 quarts...


Welcome to my Weekly Update where I share what's been going on and what's coming up!

I'm linking up to The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It was another busy week, but also a good one. I've been enjoying what I've been reading and spending time with the kids (when I'm not trying to stay on top of all the homework and sports and whatnot). We watched Enola Holmes and really enjoyed it. I would totally go for another movie! Saturday I canned 23 pints and 2 quarts of salsa. We're hoping to give the pints away for our Christmas gifts this year. I'll have family in town for two weeks during the holidays, so I need something already prepared and ready to give out and it's been about nine years since I've given away something I canned. I was happy that it all turned out since it's a ton of work! Lol!

This Week


New Books

I'm really behind on sharing my book mail, but I did get these two shared on Instagram this week:
You can still enter the tour giveaway for this awesome The Genesis of Seven prize pack here!

This awesome box is the newer Faith and Fiction Book Box for Christian readers.

Last Week

New Releases/#Free & Bargain Books for September 21st - September 27th #freebook #booksale #booklinkup #booklinky


Here are the New Releases / Free & Bargain Books, hosted by
Sharon over at Beck Valley Books, for this week! Check it all out below...

Authors please feel free to add your own books.
Readers please free to add your own finds.
(any genre except erotica welcome)

This weekly link up is hosted by Beck Valley Books & these awesome book loving blogs...

For Pre-orders post - PRE-ORDER / genre / title /author
For New Releases post - NEW / genre / title / author
For Free Books post - FREE / genre / title / author / end date 
For Bargain Books post - SALE / price / genre / title / author / end date
(Strictly no Erotica please.  Steamy romance is fine but watch those covers people, incase any underage child is viewing it!)

Here is this weeks awesome selection!


By adding your link, you acknowledge that the information you provide will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy and transmitted to Inlinkz in accordance with their Privacy Policy.

Would you like to share our linkup on your site? click here
Would you like to become a weekly host? sign up here

Come back and check out the new selection every week!

Check out a dreamcast and a playlist for Sister of the Chosen One by Erin Armknecht and Colleen Oakes (Guest Post & #Giveaway) @YABoundToursPR


Welcome to my tour stop! Check out this new YA release below...

Sister of the Chosen One
By Erin Armknecht and Colleen Oakes
YA SciFi, Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 276 Pages
September 22, 2020

Summary

"Action-packed, empowering, and comic-book vivid, Sister of the Chosen One will have you cheering." - Natalie Mae, Author of The Kinder Poison

Valora Rigmore understands pressure. As the Chosen One (resident telekinetic, superstar and model girlfriend) her life revolves around it. According to an ancient prophesy, Valora is destined to fight Erys, a terrifying individual with the power to control monsters. Valora is worshipped at school, in the press and by her parents, but as the battle with Erys looms near, the cracks in her perfect façade are beginning to show.

Her twin, Grier Rigmore understands disappointment. A curvy bookworm perpetually in the shadow of her sister’s legacy, Grier’s life is one long humiliation after another. However, as Valora’s fandom reaches an unbearable fever pitch, an interesting new boy and a clever teacher spark Grier’s curiosity about her own powerful gifts.

When Grier’s star begins to rise, so do more questions, like: who is truly the Chosen One, and will two sisters at odds survive long enough to understand the answer?

Best described as Harry Potter meets Mindy Kaling, Sister of the Chosen One is a darkly funny, female empowered YA epic about siblings struggling to connect with each other, free themselves of labels and save the world in the process.

(Affiliate link included.)

Dreamcast and Playlist


Check out a playlist for Sister of the Chosen One HERE!

About the Authors


Colleen Oakes is the bestselling author of books for both teens and adults, including The Black Coats, Queen of Hearts Series, and The Wendy Darling Saga. She lives in North Denver with her husband and son. You can visit her at www.colleenoakes.org, on her Author Colleen Oakes Facebook page, on Instagram (@colleenoakes) or on Twitter (@ColleenOakes_).


Erin Armknecht lives in St. Louis with her husband, son and rescue dog. Sister of the Chosen One is her debut novel. You can find her Twitter @EisforErin, and on Instagram @erinarmknecht.

Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.

Tour-Wide Giveaway

The Genesis of Seven by Sara M Schaller (Tour Grand Finale & #Giveaway) #G7Prism #yalit #fantasy @prismbooktours

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What inspired you to write THE GENESIS OF SEVEN?

I completely agree with the philosophy you should write the book you always wanted to read, and for me that is what drove me to write The Genesis of Seven. When I was younger, it seemed no matter where I looked, be it books or even movies, angels were always portrayed in a way that just did not agree with me. Either their stories were based on romances with humans, or they were pitted against each other with evil intentions. Because of this, I wanted to give the angels a new narrative, one that portrayed them as a group, focused on their origin story, and described the circumstances that led to the ultimate battle of good vs. evil.

(With its own giveaway.)

Rincón de Joss - Guest Post

3 KEY INSPIRATIONS BEHIND THE GENESIS OF SEVEN

The two biggest places where I draw my inspiration from are books and pop culture. No matter what story I’m writing, these factors always influence me. With The Genesis of Seven, there were three particular inspirations that motivated me to write this story. . .


"I've read other YA books about Angels including a love story. Fallen by Lauren Kate even includes an origin story. TGoS doesn't have a love story! (There is the start of a crush on the girl next door. The angels tried to meddle in Jordan's love life. It was so awkward and cute! That was a brief set up and seemed natural at the moment) Its all action and adventure. The stakes are high and the angels have quirks. I appreciate that so much."

BookHounds YA - Excerpt

“Run!” Sister Helen shouted.

Somehow, my body obliged. My legs carried me down the alleyway, past dumpsters and trashcans. At the street, I stopped briefly to figure out where to go next. I glanced at the paper and realized I had a bit of distance to cover. The address was near Central Park, but the orphanage was in the opposite direction. In fact, the orphanage wasn’t even in Manhattan. There wasn’t time to figure out a route though. At the sound of running footsteps, I looked over my shoulder and saw two men dressed in black fast approaching.

Without a second thought, I broke into a sprint and headed right.


"First thing's first, I really liked how this was in no way a romance. It was so refreshing to have a book that isn't all mushy. . . . Also, it is important to note that this is a FANTASY book. It is in no way meant to reflect what actually is and I felt like the book was quite clear about that.

All in all, if you are looking for a unique read that shows you the world, The Genesis of Seven would be a great choice."

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.

Those were the words Dante faced when he entered Hell. Perhaps if they were posted above the subway this afternoon, I would have proceeded with the same caution.

The New York subway system was a strange and peculiar place. An underground metropolis full of noise and activity, where anything and everything occurred. I liked to compare it to the Underworld as I imagined it worked in much the same way, with spirits being ferried across the River Styx like people being transported through the city. Yet the main difference between Hell and the subway was all those who entered typically resurfaced every day, sometimes multiple times a day, without being scathed. 

Unlike me, whose life would be forever changed by the simple act of bumping shoulders.


"The Genesis of Seven is great start to Sara M Schaller’s The Empyrean Trilogy. . . . I was entertained from start to finish. It was full of action and adventure that kept me engaged throughout. . . . I recommend this one for readers who enjoy a good and well written fantasy."

Bookishlifetime - Review

"I absolutely loved this book. It was show-stopping and I cannot wait to read the next two books to see where Sara takes this story next.

I highly recommend this series to any YA Fantasy fans. . ."

Dr. Joanna wang - Spotlight

Hallie Reads - Excerpt

She scanned the ID and looked up at him skeptically. “Is that supposed to impress me?”

He sighed. “No, it’s supposed to show you we don’t mean any harm.”

She handed the ID back to him. “You still want me to believe you’re here because of a family emergency?”

Exasperated, Uriel opened his mouth to argue, but Zadkiel spoke first. “Just because we don’t look like Raphael doesn’t mean we’re not his family.”

 
Splashes of Joy - Guest Post

JORDAN'S TIPS IN WORKING WITH AN ARCHANGEL

Listen when they tell you to do something

The angels have far more experience dealing with the fallen then I do, so I would advise to listen to them. I notice whenever I don’t listen to them, or whenever I am left to decide the outcome of a situation on my own, it usually ends up badly. Mainly with me getting hurt.

Paper Ink & Lizard - Spotlight

Oh Hey! Books - Excerpt

I left the library and approached the front door, glancing through the window in the hallway to get a better glimpse of the person outside. All I could see was the figure of a girl. The angels followed, and when they saw the figure too, they backed off.

I walked into the turret, grabbed the knob, and opened the door.

The girl standing on the other side smiled at me and said, “Hi, I’m Naomi.”


"This was one of those books that made me say….just one more chapter. Until I found the sun coming up the next morning just so I could know what happens. It had me on the edge of my seat with crazy anticipation!! . . . Ahh- now I definitely can’t wait for the next book in this series!"

Library Lady's Kid Lit - Review & Interview

"The Genesis of Seven is a great fantasy novel. . . . The book is a great read if readers can view it as purely fantasy (fiction) made up by the author. Once I did that, the book drew me in and the intensity of the plot made me want to keep reading. The Genesis of Seven is the first book in Sara Schaller’s The Empyrean Trilogy. It ends in a cliff-hanger leaving the reader anxious for the next book."

Which character did you enjoy writing most?

This is a really hard question because I think there’s something about every character that I enjoy writing, even the fallen. But if I had to choose, I think Astrid and Tabitha are the ones I enjoyed writing the most. I know those are two characters, but you can’t have one without the other. Why I enjoy writing them is because I get to have fun with them. They’re a bit crazy, a bit sassy, and a bit unconventional. They also tease Satan so much, which brings a lot of humor to the story. Astrid’s divinations in particular were I something I enjoyed because it really stretched my writing skills to write in rhyme and verse.

@the.b00kreader - Review

Ahh did I love this book! Angels, demons, the devil, a quest to save them all. What's not to love? . . . The Genesis of Seven is the first book in the Empyrean trilogy and is a wonderful introduction to the world Sara has created. I cannot wait to see what's in store for Jordan and the angels in the upcoming books!"

quirkybookreads - Review

Straight away Genesis of Seven takes you on a journey of interesting events including some amazing biblical retelling. . . . I found the more I read the more I had to know and before I knew it I had finished The Genesis of Seven. I look forward to reading the next book…

Reviews by Leslie - Excerpt & Review

“What are you doing?” I asked, sliding open the door.

I caught him off-guard. He jumped and quickly turned to face me.

“Nothing. Go back inside,” he replied, composing himself.

“Why?”

“Because I said so.”

“I’ve only known you for a short time, but now you decide to become secretive?”

Obviously guilty, he relented. “They have come with messages,” he said.

"This was such an enjoyable book that I can’t wait to read the rest of the trilogy! . . . I don’t read a lot of fantasy books. They really have to be something to catch my eye, and this one fits the bill! The story pulled me in from the beginning. I really enjoyed the multiple POVs. The action kept me actively engaged throughout the entire story."


"This book combines Christian myths and ideals with fantasy to create an amazing story. . . . As it turns out, I couldn't put this book down, and I mean literally. I had it with me everywhere I went because it was that good! Thank goodness this is the first of a trilogy because more books would be awesome. Well written, solidly paced, developed characters to cheer on and vivid details make The Genesis of Seven an ideal read. I recommend for sure!"

@bookishly_tiff - Review

"There was so much to enjoy with this book. As started there's multiple points of view which has always been a weakness of mine but the pacing is almost perfection and it was so easy to not want to put this one down. . . . Do I recommend this book? Absolutely! The wait for the next book is honestly entirely too long!"

Wishful Endings - Guest Post

JORDAN'S TIPS IN EVADING THE FALLEN

1. Run

The easiest way to evade the fallen is simply to outrun them. I’ve done it once before and it worked out pretty well. Granted, I don’t think I could do it again, so this might be a one-time thing. . .

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review & Guest Post

"The story is well-written, holds a bit of humor, a lot of suspense and intrigue. The characters are well-defined and the background scenes are fairly easy to visualize. . . . As a whole, the book is intriguing, captivating, sensitive, poignant and ends in a way which leaves the reader anxious for more."

THE ORIGINS OF MY BOOK TITLE

It's natural for readers to be curious about book titles—they set the stage for the book, possibly even the entire series, and are a brief glimpse of what to expect from the narrative. It's equally natural for readers to be curious about what meaning book titles hold. . .


With our luggage situated, I followed Gabriel through the airport and out into the parking garage, where I stopped suddenly.

“You have a car here?”

“Yes,” he replied, not breaking step. “I have a car in New York too. I don’t drive much there though.” He finally stopped in front of a silver Lexus RX. Unlocking the car, he began to load his chest and bag into the trunk.

I stared in disbelief. “You can drive?”


"Such a fantabulous book that kept my interest from page one until the end. . . . This young adult novel was just wow! I know I know I keep saying that but this story just took my breath away! . . . I highly recommend this book."

JeanBookNerd - Guest Post

THE COVER DESIGN AND PROCESS

When I started on my publishing journey back in 2018, I commissioned an artist to design the cover for my book. The work was gorgeous and phenomenal, but I knew in my gut it wasn’t the cover.

I worked as a graphic designer for five years, and I had an idea in my head of what my cover looked like, but for some reason it was impossible for me to execute it myself. I thought getting another artist to do it would be the best scenario, but the artwork just didn’t match the image in my head and it was too hard to verbalize what I was visualizing. . .

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

The Genesis of Seven
(The Empyrean Trilogy, #1)
By Sara M. Schaller
YA Fantasy, Paranormal
Hardcover, Paperback & ebook, 348 Pages
July 7, 2020 by Designs by Seraphim

Eighteen-year-old Jordan Conway has always wanted to help people, but helping seven archangels to achieve their divine duty was never quite what he had in mind… 

When Jordan is entrusted by the head nun of his orphanage to deliver a mysterious backpack to a New York City address, he comes unexpectedly face-to-face with Archangel Gabriel. Their acquaintance fast uncovers a labyrinth of secrets that connect Jordan’s once-normal life to an ancient heavenly prophecy. Now, he must help Gabriel to reunite the archangels before evil forces grow too strong.

Soon, Jordan and Gabriel find themselves on a divine quest across the globe, while deep in the pits of Hell, Satan plots his return to earth. To gain control, however, Satan needs the powerful prophetic objects locked safe inside Jordan’s backpack—and the devil will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

With that notion threatening his only family and the safety of his newfound friends, Jordan must do whatever it takes to protect the ones he loves and help the archangels succeed. If that means sacrificing all he thought he knew to go to war with the devil himself? Bring it on.

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


SARA M SCHALLER is a paralibrarian, publishing professional, and young adult author. She lives in Colorado with her mom, dad, brother, and four furry canine siblings. Sara loves the world of pop culture and the performing arts, so when she is not reading or writing, she is either watching movies and shows, attending conventions, or going out to see live performances. She likes to write stories for all ages in the fantasy genre, and her writing usually contains elements of speculative fiction and features a large cast of characters. Sara has a Bachelor’s degree in English, Art History, and Religious Studies from the University of Denver, and a Master’s degree in Publishing from Pace University. For five years, Sara worked as a graphic designer, and her creativity in design carries over into other areas of her life like writing. You can visit her online at www.saramschaller.com.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive the following: a backpack to match the main character's, a necklace to match the main character's, a signed hardcover, a bookmark, a set of pins with a pen, and a passport with a sticker sheet featuring locations in the book.

Open internationally
Ends September 29, 2020

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