Sunday, April 30, 2017

Book Review: A Plain Widow by: Diane Craver --- On tour with Celebrate Lit

I know that I have had a lot of book reviews lately - I am working on some new things for the blog. I am so glad that you have been continuing to read and interact :)


Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

Click to purchase
Book: A Plain Widow
Author: Diane Craver
Genre: Amish romance
Release Date: March 10, 2017
Molly Ebersol’s life changes in a few minutes when an arsonist torches their barn. Her husband, Caleb, rushes inside the burning barn to save his horses. Although Amish firefighter, Jonathan Mast, tries to save Caleb, he fails. Suddenly Molly becomes a widow.
A month later, an anonymous person gives money to cover the lumber and food expenses for the barn raising. One late night more money is left for Molly on the porch. The fire investigator wonders if the arsonist feels guilt about Caleb’s death and is responsible for the money gifts.
During the continued investigation, it’s learned that Caleb had secrets he kept from Molly. She is crushed by what Caleb did before meeting her. How could the love of her life kept his English past from her?
Her new neighbor, Jonathan, helps her to make the difficult transition from wife to widow. Although Molly develops feelings for Jonathan, can she ever trust him to be truthful to her? She isn’t sure she can fall in love again. Her trust in relationships is shattered because of Caleb’s past actions.

About the Author


Diane grew up on a farm outside Findlay, Ohio, and she often acted out characters from her own stories in the backyard. In high school she would read during classes and hide a novel in front of her in a propped up textbook. After Diane graduated from the Ohio State University, she became a schoolteacher and play director.
She met her husband while teaching at an orphanage, and they married three years later. Diane says that it took her that long to convince him she was the one for him! While raising their family in southwestern Ohio, she started writing nonfiction and was published. Later, Diane decided it would be a nice escape to write fiction. They were blessed with five daughters and one son. Two daughters were born with Down syndrome and live at home. Their other children live close by. Diane has four adorable grandchildren. Her favorite vacation is going to the beach with the whole family.

Non-fiction articles of Diane’s have been published in Woman’s World WeeklyThe Catholic TelegraphVirtueDown Syndrome TodayWritersWeekly.com, and other publications. Several of Diane’s books have been a reviewer’s top pick from Night Owl Reviews as well as receiving 5 star reviews and A Joyful Break (Dreams of Plain Daughters) received the CTRR Reviewer’s Recommend Award from Coffee Time Romance and More.

Diane gives thanks daily to God for all her blessings.

Guest Post from Diane Craver

Back in 2012, when I told our adult children I had written my first Amish book, they looked surprised. In the past I had written contemporary Christian romance, but I had never mentioned anything about researching the Amish faith for my future books. My great-grandfather was a Mennonite minister, but I never knew him. My mother shared stories about his faith and his strictness in raising children. With many similarities between my great-grandfather’s faith and the Amish beliefs, I was drawn to learn more about the Plain life.
Another influence came from my father. While growing up in Findlay, Ohio, my father respected and enjoyed talking with the Amish from Kenton, Ohio. As a farmer, he used both work horses (something he had in common with his Amish acquaintances) and a tractor. In my book, A PLAIN WIDOW, my character, Jonathan Mast, is from Kenton. Unfortunately, my children never knew my father, but they learned how precious he was to me from reading my book, A GIFT FOREVER.
Now several books later, I am still writing Amish fiction. I feel blessed that God directed me on this writing path. A wonderful aspect of writing in this genre is finding Amish recipes to prepare in my kitchen. One of my favorite recipes is also my character Molly’s specialty in my new release. This Amish recipe is an easy bread to make and takes around twenty minutes to prepare.
Delicious Amish Cinnamon Bread
(Makes 2 loaves)
Batter:
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
2 cups buttermilk or 2 cups milk plus 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice
4 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
Cinnamon/sugar mixture:
2/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Cream together butter, 2 cups of sugar, and eggs. Add milk, flour, and baking soda. Put 1/2 of batter (or a little less) into greased loaf pans. (Basically pour 1/4 of the total batter into each pan.)
Mix in separate bowl the 2/3 cup of sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle 3/4 of cinnamon mixture on top of the 1/2 batter in each pan. Add remaining batter to pans; sprinkle with last of cinnamon topping. Swirl with a knife. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 min. Or until toothpick tester is clean.
Cool in pan for 20 minutes before removing from pan.

MY REVIEW --
This was the first book that I bad read by this author. I was hooked within a few pages. My heart just broke for Molly, her young son, and the baby on the way. I can't even imagine losing my husband with small children. I enjoyed trying to follow the investigation and discover who was responsible for the fire of the Ebersol's barn - but I was wrong in the end. 
I love that this story was a mystery full of fun little nuggets. This is also a story of second chances. 

I don't want to spoil to much - but I really really loved this book. I highly recommend it.
I am going to have to go back and look for other books by this author. 

I was given an advanced copy by Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own. 

Blog Stops

April 20: Lighthouse Academy
April 21: A Reader’s Brain
April 22: cherylbbookblog
April 25: Pause for Tales
April 25: Bigreadersite
April 29: Just Commonly
April 30: A Greater Yes

Giveaway


To celebrate her tour, Diane is giving away:
GRAND PRIZE: Diane is giving away a set of the Dream of Plain Daughters Series (4 book series) and a $20 Amazon gift card. If the winner is outside of the US, ebooks will be substituted.
RUNNER-UP: A copy of AMISH BABY SNATCHED, the first book in The Bishop’s Daughters Series and a $10 Amazon gift card.
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/b54a

Thursday, April 13, 2017

BOOK REVIEW!!!! Called to Justice by Edith Maxwell On tour with Great Escapes

 
 
 
 
 
 
Rate This

Called to Justice
by Edith Maxwell

I loved going to 1888 seeing how the author brought us into Rose’s life…
~Community Bookstop
I enjoyed reading Called For Justice. The authors attention to detail in describing the job(s) tasks of mid wife in the time period made for an interesting read.
~The Journey Back
Called to Justice is as much historical fiction as it is cozy mystery, and I found both aspects of the story to be riveting.
~The Book’s the Thing
Edith Maxwell has created a series around the most charming cozy mystery character I have come across in the many years I have read this genre.
~Bibliophile Reviews
I am hooked on this series ,if you love a great murder with Historical background and a story so well written you will be captivated from the start.
~Shelley’s Book Case
I was enthralled with the mystery Maxwell created in CALLED TO JUSTICE. From the beginning of the story until all becomes known and things are solved, I was riveted to my chair.
~Lisa Ks Book Reviews
Called to Justice by Edith Maxwell is an impressive and enjoyable story. It is steeped in historical detail that is not only interesting, but fascinating,
~The Power of Words . . .
CALLED TO JUSTICE is an intricate, heartfelt mystery. The author guides us down multiple avenues, developing characters and motives, in order to work out the truth and find justice.
~Cozy Up With Kathy
This was a very well written book that flowed well and was a very good read.
~Melina’s Book Blog
It was a wonderful glimpse into the past and a mystery that is intriguing. The ending is so good with unexpected twists.
~Texas Book-aholic
There are many twists and turns to this story as Rose tries to put all the pieces of the puzzle in their proper places.
~Book Babble
The mystery is well written and is also well paced. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing…
~Queen of All She Reads

Called to Justice (A Quaker Midwife Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Midnight Ink (April 8, 2017)
Paperback: 312 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0738750323
Kindle ASIN: B01FOR0YRW
Quaker midwife Rose Carroll is enjoying the 1888 Independence Day evening fireworks with her beau when a teenaged Quaker mill girl is found shot dead. After a former slave and fellow Quaker is accused of the murder, Rose delves into the crime, convinced of the man’s innocence. An ill-mannered mill manager, an Irish immigrant, and the victim’s young boyfriend come under suspicion even as Rose’s future with her handsome doctor suitor becomes unsure. Rose continues to deliver babies and listen to secrets, finally figuring out one criminal – only to be threatened by the murderer, with three lives at stake. Can she rescue herself, a baby, and her elderly midwifery teacher in time?
Praise for Delivering the Truth
by Edith Maxwell (Book 1 in this series)
Ms. Maxwell weaves a sturdy cloth from the stories of the various characters in Delivering the Truth.
~Back Porchervations
I enjoyed every minute of this book…
~Shelley’s Book Case
This was a very entertaining read. I really enjoy reading Edith Maxwell’s writing as it flows so well.
~Melina’s Book Blog
…a different type of historical cozy…I enjoyed reading a book where the protagonist is a midwife and of the Quaker faith…
~Storeybook Reviews
Rose is a smart character and the history of the story is done well.
~A Chick Who Reads
The author takes us into Rose’s life, making us feel as though we are right there with her in every situation. The mystery is well-developed and leaves the reader guessing right to the end.
~Book Babble
Maxwell
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Agatha-nominated and Amazon best-selling author Edith Maxwell writes the Quaker Midwife Mysteries and the Local Foods Mysteries, the Country Store Mysteries (as Maddie Day), and the Lauren Rousseau Mysteries (as Tace Baker), as well as award-winning short crime fiction. Maxwell lives north of Boston with her beau and three cats, and blogs with the other Wicked Cozy Authors. You can find her on Facebook, twitter, Pinterest, and at www.edithmaxwell.com.
 
Purchase Links:


MY REVIEW
This is the second book in the Quaker Midwife series - while I had not read the first book - I was able to follow along with no problems. Meet Rose Carroll, a Quaker midwife. This book will keep you turning pages (or in my case clicking the next page button on my kindle). This book will also keep you guessing. The period and setting in this book is well researched and it was a fun journey to take. The author gives great details into the life of a midwife back in the 1880s.  I really enjoyed this book. 

I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my opinion - all opinions are my own. 

Click HERE to enter the giveaway for: a print copy of Called to Justice by Edith Maxwell

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Book Review --- Southern Fried by Tonya Kappes

Book Review --- Southern Fried by Tonya Kappes
On tour with Great Escapes




Southern Fried (A Kenni Lowry Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Henery Press (April 4, 2017)
Paperback: 252 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1635111873
Kindle ASIN: B01N212SJ8

Synopsis

In the South, it’s better when the food is fried and the secrets kept buried…
After the dead body of a beloved Cottonwood resident is found tangled up in an electric fence, Sheriff Kenni Lowry has a hunch that somethin’ ain’t right. Her investigation heats up with a fierce cook-off competition, a euchre game where the intel is sweeter than the brownies, and a decades old family recipe that may just be the proof in the pudding.
The icing on the cake: Kenni is fighting an attraction to her recently sworn-in deputy sheriff, and election season is hot on her tail. When the killer comes after who she holds most dear, even her poppa’s ghostly guidance might not be enough to keep her and her own out of the frying pan.
Tonya-5

About the Author

For years, USA Today bestselling author Tonya Kappes has been self-publishing her numerous mystery and romance titles with unprecedented success. She is famous not only for her hilarious plotlines and quirky characters, but her tremendous marketing efforts that have earned her thousands of followers and a devoted street team of fans. Be sure to check out Tonya’s website for upcoming events and news and to sign up for her newsletter! Tonyakappes.com

Kenni Lowry Mystery Series
Also by Tonya Kappes
Olivia Davis Paranormal Mystery Series
Magical Cures Mystery Series
Grandberry Falls Series
A Laurel London Mystery Series
A Divorced Diva Beading Mystery Series
Bluegrass Romance Series
Women’s Fiction
Young Adult
A Ghostly Southern Mystery Series
Enjoy a free ebook from Tonya when you sign up for her newsletter by clicking here.
Visit Tonya:
 Purchase Links
Amazon   B&N

My Review
This book was a great cozy mystery that was set in a small town. This is the second book in in the Kenni Lowry Mystery series. With her dog Duke by her side and her newly sworn deputy she has to solve another murder mystery in the small town of Cottonwood, KY where every one knows everyone else. I loved following this book along as the story unfolded. I loved all the Southern Sayings. I recently moved to the south so I found this humorous.  

Tour Participants
April 4 – The Book Diva’s Reads – GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY
April 4 – Brooke Blogs – CHARACTER GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY
April 5 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
April 5 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST
April 6 – fundinmental – REVIEW
April 6 – Books,Dreams,Life – SPOTLIGHT
April 7 – Reading Is My SuperPower– REVIEW
April 7 – Island Confidential – CHARACTER INTERVIEW. GIVEAWAY
April 8 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 8 – The Editing Pen – INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 9 – Jemima Pett, Author – REVIEW, INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 10 – Rainy Day Reviews – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 10 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy,Too! – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
April 11 – Books, Movies, Reviews. Oh my! – REVIEW
April 11 – deal sharing aunt – INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 12 – Because I said So, and other adventures in parenting – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 12 – Author Annette Drake’s blog – INTERVIEW
April 13 – fuonlyknew – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 13 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST
April 14 – Blogger Nicole Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
April 14 – Community Bookstop –  REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 15 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW
April 15 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
April 16 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW
April 17 – Becky’s Bookcase – REVIEW
April 17 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – GUEST POST
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