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Saturday, August 17, 2019

Book Review and Giveaway: The Faith of Mike Pence by Leslie Montgomery On Tour with Celebrate Lit

The Faith of Mike Pence FB Banner


About the Book


FaithOfMikePence

Book: The Faith of Mike Pence
Author: Leslie Montgomery
Genre: Biography, religious, political
Release Date: August 6, 2019
Several books have been published about Vice President Mike Pence, but none have touched upon what may be the most fascinating aspect of our nation’s second in command: his deep faith.
The Faith of Mike Pence offers an intimate look at the man who calls himself “a Christian, a conservative, and a Republican, in that order.”
Author Leslie Montgomery details Pence’s spiritual journey and examines how the vice president’s commitment to Christ has been a key component in his life as a husband, father, and public servant. Montgomery examines Pence’s encounters with politicos and evangelistic leaders such as James Dobson and Charles Lake. She shows the role of Pence’s faith in running for various offices, implementing faith-based initiatives, and responding to 9/11, the war in Afghanistan and Iraq, and the infamous Anthrax scare in Congress that directly affected him.
The Faith of Mike Pence is a powerful account of one of the most conservative vice presidents in American history, with exclusive interviews and insightful commentary from friends, family, and colleagues. It is a serious and moving reflection about one of America’s most admired and respected politicians.

Click here to grab your copy.

About the Author

Leslie Montgomery is the author and ghostwriter of over a dozen books. She is best known for writing the spiritual biography, The Faith of Condoleezza Rice, when Rice was serving our nation as secretary of state in the George W. Bush administration.
Leslie has been a writer for Focus on the Family for more than twenty years and is the former director of publications for the American Association of Christian Counselors.
She is also the founder of Yeshu’a Ministries, with the goal of helping people gain a better and closer relationship with the Lord through her writing, speaking, and teaching ministry. She has traveled to churches and conferences around the world through her evangelical ministry, sharing the Word of God.
Leslie has four children and six grandchildren. She resides in Boise, Idaho

More from Leslie

Leslie Montgomery
In 2006, I wrote and released The Faith of Condoleezza Rice, know-ing it might be years before I published another book. My husband and I were undergoing fertility treatments and vowed that if I got pregnant, I’d take a few years off of working outside the home to raise my children until they were in school full-time. Well, I did get pregnant and we had two children in the span of two-and-a-half years.
In early summer 2017, with two kids getting ready to start school again, I prayed and asked God to send me a new book contract; it was time to get back into the thick of things. Two weeks later, I dreamt that I was to write The Faith of Mike Pence. The truth is, neither he nor his faith were even on my radar. I got out of bed and began doing a little research. I wrote a book proposal for different publishers and began to accumulate a list of people I hoped to interview.
My overall goal with this book is not to set the vice president up as a spiritual hero, but to show the heart of the real man—as a Christian, husband, father, and politician. In doing so, I tried to allow his own words and those of his family, friends, and colleagues tell his story while I served as a conduit to weave it together. My prayer is that it inspires, encourages, and challenges you.    —Leslie Montgomery

My Thoughts

One of my most favorite things to read is biographies/memoirs/etc on how people go to where they are. I read presidential/VP biographies for fun. I was excited to get the chance to review this title - since I minored in religion in undergrad.  This book was a wonderful read focusing on our Nation's Vice-President and his trust in God. One of the things that I love is that it tells how God has guided him throughout his entire childhood, teen years, adulthood and politics. I love how he has stayed true to his faith. One of my favorite things that he has said is: "“I’m a Christian, a conservative and a Republican, in that order.” In a world that has turned their back on God - this book shows that good Godly men still exist. 

Some of his political beliefs are discussed - but not dwelled on. This book is more of a reflection to how God has been a constant in his life. I love that he even admits, that he is far from perfect - and that God's love is perfect. 

This book made my heart happy. 

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program -- all thoughts are my own. 

Blog Stops

CarpeDiem, August 19
Mary Hake, August 20
Genesis 5020, August 21
Vicky Sluiter, August 22
Moments, August 23
A Reader’s Brain, August 24
Texas Book-aholic, August 28
janicesbookreviews, August 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Leslie is giving away a grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card, hardcover copy of The Faith of Mike Pence, and Faith and Freedom Adult Coloring Book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries. Click the link below to enter.

Thursday, August 8, 2019

Book Review and Giveaway: Full Circle Author: Athena Dean Holtz on Tour with Celebrate Lit

Full Circle Celebration Tour Banner

About the Book

Full Circle Cover

Book: Full Circle
Author: Athena Dean Holtz
Genre: Memoir
Release Date: February 11, 2017
Athena’s driving desire for affirmation and attention pulled her away from her family, husband, and children into what she thought would bring happiness. Deceived by Scientology, forays into mysticism, and twelve years in a restrictive and legalistic cult, she lost everything—her marriage, relationships, home, business, money, and reputation.
 This is the candid and inspirational story of how her eyes were opened, how God restored what had been lost, and gave her the desires of her heart, including a new love.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Authors


Athena Holtz
Athena Dean Holtz has been at the forefront of Christian custom publishing for the last 30 years. The co-founder of WinePress Publishing, she now leads Redemption Press. Author of three previous books, and a highly-rated personal blog, she serves as president of the Northwest Christian Writer’s Association, is a president’s club member of the Christian Women in Media Association, and a member of Advanced Writer & Speaker Association. She recently retired as host and interviewer on “Always Faithful Radio,” KCIS, Seattle. Married to Ross Holtz, pastor of The Summit, Athena enjoys her grandchildren and time spent sailing. The couple makes their home in Enumclaw, Wash.
 Inger J. Logelin is a freelance writer, author, and senior editor of Redemption Press. Ministry experience includes pioneer church planting among the Inuit, and a wilderness camp for First Nations youth of Canada, as well as short-term missions around the world. She and her husband make their home on Whidbey Island, Wash.

More from Athena

When people hear about my Job-like experience with the modern-day Cinderella story ending, I often hear remarks like “WOW, that should be a movie!” It has been six and a half years of full-on redemption and restoration and, honestly, I still pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming this!
After 12 years of spiritual abuse that left me a shell of a person, devastated and distraught, I began a breathtaking journey of healing for all the loss I’d endured. The loss of my 18 year marriage, destroyed relationships with my adult children, the death of my well known publishing company and destruction of my career, along with the fatality of my credit score as I lost my home, my income, and all material things that meant anything to me. Those 12 years of deception cost me big time, but we serve a Romans 8:28 God who uses all things, even that, for good.
I’m on the other side now, healed and restored, proclaiming the faithfulness of a God who used what the enemy meant for evil … for good! I love the creativity He uses in the redemption process … to think He would allow me to be a pastor’s wife now … hand-picked by my pastor-hubby’s late wife of 49 years … with restored relationships with my adult children and grandchildren … to be a radio show host interviewing authors whose stories ring of the faithfulness of God … to steward well another publishing endeavor called Redemption Press … so many full circles where God’s sovereignly connects the dots and brings insight that mends my soul.
I’m excited to share my story with you, to be authentic and transparent, and to reflect the glory of God. I pray that you’re encouraged by all that God has done, and that you’re left with a healthy dose of hope in His faithfulness and His ability to bring good out of bad, every time.
And now, I’ll leave you with an inviting peek into some trivia about my life…
My Uncle Skeeter is a famous actor, James B. Sikking. Known for his part as Howard Hunter on Hill Street Blues and Doogie Howser’s Dad.
When I was 14 years old, I owned 7 horses and showed most of them in horse shows across the country, with my last official show being Madison Square Gardens.
I absolutely LOVE Vizslas…also known as Hungarian Pointers…I’ve had 2 of them over the last 14 years and am addicted. They are THE COOLEST dogs!
I used to work for Helen Reddy, as an administrative assistant to her manager/husband, and before that, for the manager of Rufus & Chaka Khan when they recorded their first hit, Tell Me Somethin’ Good.
My Grandma’s house overlooked the Santa Monica beach and originally belonged to the silent movie star, Mary Pickford.
When I was five years old, my grandma, Dr. Sue Sikking, was the honored guest on the popular TV show “This is Your Life” with host Ralph Edwards. I was part of the cast when our family surprised her with our attendance, and fervently tugged on Mr. Edwards suit jacket to try to get his attention!

My Thoughts

I love how God knows what books that I need to review, and when I need to read them. I myself have gone through a lot of church hurt. Most recently after my divorce. A church that I had spent a lot of time serving at, leading bible studies at, etc. I had been very angry with God. He did not do anything wrong, but I was hurt and lashing out. THIS BOOK IS WHAT I NEEDED TO START HEALING.  While I was not in a cult like the author, I have been deeply hurt by religious organizations. 
The author is VERY candid in what she went through and how bad she was hurt. My heart broke while reading her story. I love that she followed the holy spirit prompting to share her experiences. I am grateful that God is a all forgiving God and that he is ALWAYS ready to accept us back with open arms when we stray far from him. Do not start reading this if you do not have a lot of time. I did not want to put it down. 

I received a copy of this book through the CelebrateLit Blogging program, all thoughts are my own. 

Blog Stops

CarpeDiem, August 10
Artistic Nobody, August 11 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, August 13
Power of Words, August 15 (Spotlight)
A Reader’s Brain, August 16
janicesbookreviews, August 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Athena is giving away a $50 Amazon gift card and  signed copy of her book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

Sunday, August 4, 2019

Gators, Guts, & Glory Author: Lauralee “Blissful” Bliss On tour with Celebrate Lit

Gators, Guts and Glory FB Banner


About the Book


Book: Gators, Guts, & Glory
Author: Lauralee “Blissful” Bliss
Genre: Non-Fiction, Hiking, Adventure
Release date: July 15, 2019
Gators, Guts, and Glory
Wander on the wild and humorous side of adventure with long distance hiker Lauralee Bliss (trail name Blissful), hiking the 1,100-mile Florida Trail from Big Cypress National Preserve to Gulf Islands National Seashore. From alligators and cottonmouths to tenting among the palmettos and walking on water, from forests of cypress knees and lofty pine to the help of trail angels along the way, “Blissful” uncovers the hidden gems of glory in this National Scenic Trail with a unique journey unlike any other.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Lauralee Bliss Florida
Lauralee Bliss is an avid adventurer, one of only a few women to hike the entire Appalachian Trail both north and south. She is also the published author of over 25 romance novels and novellas. Lauralee’s desire is that readers will come away with both an entertaining story and a lesson that ministers to the heart. She makes her home in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

More from Lauralee

Why hike the Florida Trail of all things?
L – I’ve had several adventures under my belt, like completing the Appalachian Trail twice (see book one in the Hiking Adventure Series – Mountains, Madness and Miracles – 4000 Miles Along the Appalachian Trail)! We used to vacation in Florida as many do come winter, and once we came upon the Florida Trail sign. I couldn’t imagine hiking among the palm trees. After talking to other hikers who had done it, I knew it would be a unique experience unlike any other. After all, why should life be boring?

It all sounds kind of dangerous – the alligators, the swamps. Were you scared?
L – I’ll admit there are facets of hiking that can cause scary situations. Once I got stuck in mud-like quicksand. In Florida it’s known as sucking mud, and I thought I’d never get out of it. Can you imagine? I also had some rough weather, dangerous water crossings, and an encounter with a cottonmouth. Btu through it I learned about God’s peace and His saving hand in situations where you really have no control.

What did you do to prepare?
L – I hiked as much as I could. I talked with other hikers and asked questions. I joined online trail forums to find out about the Florida Trail. I bought the guidebook for it. I believe one should always try to prepare and not venture into something blind. But of course there’s always the unexpected, which adds to the adventure aspect.

What lessons did you learn?
L – What one can accomplish in life if you keep going and not give up, despite the challenging situations thrust your way. I like to go on these journeys to witness God’s care in my life firsthand and seeing the kindness of others to help a hiker in need. I’ve had people try to give me money. Folks that invited me into their homes or given me rides. The human spirit is amazing and one of the most valuable things I experienced.

What else can you tell us about yourself?
L – I am an avid adventurer covering thousands of trail miles in the US from east to west including two completions of the Appalachian Trail, the Colorado Trail, the Long Trail of Vermont, the Allegheny Trail of West Virginia, and the Foothills Trail of South Carolina. I have also authored of over 25 romance novels and novellas and when not writing or hiking, I love to talk to others about hiking. My motto is – make your dream come true! (and it has, in more ways than one)


My Thoughts

I chose to read this book, because I will NEVER go on a trek like she did. I found the description intriguing. I enjoyed reading this book. It was a easy read. I had NO idea what goes into planning a hike. All of my hikes have been wake up, hike. I would NEVER survive what she did. I enjoyed following along in the spiritual and actual trek over 1000 miles. I like her detailed descriptions and humor that is inserted throughout this book. I chuckled a lot - especially the beginning where they were running behind, maps were not matching up - and she says: "If I meet a gator, I pray they are not hungry."  I thought that it was pretty cool she would have mail drops that would contain food, clothing, etc. I enjoyed reading this book. 

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging program all thoughts are my own. 

Blog Stops

Mary Hake, August 1
janicesbookreviews, August 10
A Reader’s Brain, August 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lauralee is giving away a grand prize of a $25 REI gift card!!
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/e547/gators-guts



Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Book Review: Guilty as Charred (A Cook-Off Mystery) Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series by Devon Delaney



Guilty as Charred
(A Cook-Off Mystery)
by Devon Delaney

Guilty as Charred has appetizing cuisine, a technologically challenged detective, a panicked populace, toxic threats, a canine named Chutney, and one prying protagonist.
~The Avid Reader
A great mystery full of quirky characters and mouth-watering food that will keep you hooked until the very end. Perfect for fans of culinary-themed cozies.
~Books a Plenty Book Reviews

About the Book 


Guilty as Charred (A Cook-Off Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Kensington (June 25, 2019)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
ISBN-10: 1496714474
ISBN-13: 978-1496714473
Digital ASIN: B07HVYY7KN
Sherry Oliveri has attained celebrity status after winning the America’s Good Taste Recipe Contest with her delectable New England Crab Cake Sliders. But now that she’s back home in Connecticut, she’s got to deal with something else fishy . . .
Sherry’s making a guest appearance on a local radio show when the news comes in: Poppy Robinson has been found dead in the town’s community garden. Sherry was supposed to be taking questions about her win in the national cooking competition, but instead the callers start dishing dirt.
Poppy and Sherry were both involved in the vegetable garden, and while Poppy may have been a bit priggish, it wasn’t anything that called for a shovel to the back of the head. There was already trouble brewing, with the owner of the land threatening to renege on their agreement, and this murder has taken tensions to a new level. Now while Sherry’s organizing a Fourth of July cook-off event, she’s also got a murder investigation on her plate . . .
Includes Recipes from Sherry’s Kitchen!

About the Author

Devon Delaney is a wife, mother of three, accomplished cooking contester, recent empty nester, and lifelong resident of the Northeast. She has been handsomely rewarded for her recipe innovation over the last twenty-plus years, including a full kitchen of major appliances, top cash prizes, and four trips to Disney World. She has also won the Grand Prize in a national writing contest for her “foodie” poem “Ode to Pork Passion.”
Check out Devon’s website at: www.devonpdelaney.com and find her on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/devonpdelaney/
Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N – Kobo – Google Play – IndieBound

My Thoughts:
This was a new to me author. This is also the 3rd book in the series. I did not have any problem following along. The first two books are recapped for you. (What a thoughtful touch. I really liked that!) What drew me in was the cover and the description. I was excited to read something new.  This book has well written characters. I love how the author's writing just flows through the pages. This is a cute cozy mystery. I have found a new author to read!
I received a copy of this book through the Great Escapes Blogging Program. All thoughts are my own. 

ENTER TO WIN: (3) Print Copy - Guilty as Charred (A Cook-Off Mystery) by Devon Delaney- U.S. ONLY

Enter: HERE




Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Book Review and Giveaway: JalapeƱo Cheddar Cornbread Murder by Jodi Rath on Tour with Great Escapes




JalapeƱo Cheddar Cornbread Murder (The Cast Iron Skillet Mystery Series)https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?source=bk&t=dollycsthoug-20&bm-id=default&l=ktl&linkId=a2951a0c0fc4466c42e86acb77f90b46&_cb=1556301784840
Cozy Mystery
2nd in the Series
MYS ED LLC (June 21, 2019)
Digital ASIN: B07Q1K4DN3
https://www.escapewithdollycas.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/goodreads-badge-add-plus-d700d4d3e3c0b346066731ac07b7fe47.png
Financial fraud of elderly villagers in Leavensport, an urban sprawl threat to the community, disastrous dates, cross-sell marketing gone wrong, and another murder? Jolie Tucker is ready to try dating again. Well, she has no choice—since her family auctioned her off to the highest bidder. Her best friend, Ava, has agreed to a double date, but both friends find out hidden secrets about their partners as well as deception by one of the village's own, who will soon be found dead. This plot is sure to be spicy!
About the Author
https://www.escapewithdollycas.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Jodi_Rath.jpg
Moving into her second decade working in education, Jodi Rath has decided to begin a life of crime in her The Cast Iron Skillet Mystery Series. Her passion for both mysteries and education led her to combine the two to create her business MYS ED, where she splits her time between working as an adjunct for Ohio teachers and creating mischief in her fictional writing. She currently resides in a small, cozy village in Ohio with her husband and her seven cats.
Author Links:  Webpage: https://www.jodirath.com/   
FB Author Page: Author Jodi Rath  Twitter @jodirath
  • Monthly Newsletter Link: http://eepurl.com/dIfXdbGet  Short Story “Sweet Retreat” for free by subscribing to my monthly newsletter. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive free flash fiction, A Mystery a Month, serial scenes from series, and deleted scenes).
Purchase Links - Amazon -
All other e-platforms: https://books2read.com/u/bOAYyK

My Thoughts
This is the first book that I have read by this author. I was drawn in by the title and the cover. I am originally from Ohio - so I love that this book was based there. The author's characters are well written and real feeling. I love the author's style of writing. This author packs a lot of action into this book. You will go on twists and turns in this book. Just when you think you have it all figured out --- BOOM - detour.
I enjoyed reading this book. I received a copy of this book through the Great Escapes blogging tours. All thoughts are my own.

(3) Digital Copy - JalapeƱo Cheddar Cornbread Murder (The Cast Iron Skillet Mystery Series) by Jodi Rath
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