Blog Tour: Amethyst, The Shallows by Kellye Abernathy

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AMETHYST, THE SHALLOWS
by
Kellye Abernathy
YA / Magical Realism / Coming of Age
Publisher: Atmosphere Press
Page Count: 296 pages
Publication Date: February 6, 2024
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“This is a night for being brave.”
In the aftermath of a devastating sickness that shatters their close-knit beach town, six lonely kids are drawn together during the unpredictable autumn equinox. Among them are fourteen-year-old Lorelei, who yearns to be an oceanographer, and her peculiar younger brother, Tad, who possesses an otherworldly curiosity.
When Lorelei has a strange and almost deadly encounter in a sea cave, her loyal boyfriend, Casey, cannot reconcile her fantastical experience with the rational world. Condi, Lorelei’s best friend, understands ocean magic but isn’t free to share what she knows. Kait, a girl from Ireland, regrets her impulsive move to America–all because of an odd occurrence involving her deceased boyfriend’s lost surfboard. When tides turn and the moon shifts, Isaac, the new kid in town who despises the ocean, is forced to face the truth–a profound and powerful magic lives in the deep.
Guided by a wise surf master, mystical old women known as the Beachlings, and an open-hearted grandmother, six kids embark on transformative adventures that challenge their beliefs about possibilities and the intense nature of love.
Amethyst, the Shallows is the companion novel to The Aquamarine Surfboard.
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Kellye Abernathy’s passions are writing and serving trauma survivors as a yoga teacher and practical life skills advocate. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary English Education from the University of Kansas. Her home is in land-locked Plano, Texas—where she’s dreaming of her next trip to the sea!
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Blog Tour: To Rescue a Witch by Lisa A. Traugott

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures

TO RESCUE A WITCH
by
Lisa A. Traugott
Historical Fiction / Action & Adventure / Witch Trials
Page Count: 398 pages
Publication Date: March 1, 2024
It’s 1739. An abused girl accused of witchcraft must be defended by a man married to an actual witch.
William MacLeod, a fierce Scottish lawyer with a kind heart, takes on a daunting task—rescue young Annaliese from the clutches of her tormentors in the untamed wilds of Virginia colony and deliver her safely to her aristocratic father in London. But lurking in the shadows are enemies eager to expose MacLeod’s own wife, Fiona, as a witch with a dark secret.
Their perilous journey takes an unexpected turn when their ship wrecks, and Annaliese’s haunting nightmares and unexplained Devil Marks trigger suspicion among the crew. Tension peaks when MacLeod must become Annaliese’s unwavering protector in a witch trial, where Fiona’s clairvoyance and a murder are unveiled.
To Rescue a Witch navigates themes of betrayal and redemption, in a spellbinding narrative that blends history, magic, and the unyielding resilience of the human spirit.
Lisa A. Traugott is an award-winning author and World Championship public speaker semifinalist and spoke five lines on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. She lives in Austin with her husband, two kids, and English bulldog, Bruno.

Website ◆ Blog ◆ Facebook ◆ AmazonGoodreads ◆ BookBub ◆ Instagram

Review

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book from Lone Star Literary in exchange for my honest review.

To Rescue a Witch by Lisa A. Traugott is a compelling historical fiction novel. The book is based in the Virginia Colony in the 1700s. The book takes us on the journey through the life of a barrister, William MacLeod, as he sets out on a voyage to retrieve Annaliese, the daughter of an aristocrat in London. During his travels, William encounters fights, a choppy sea, a rambunctious nine-year-old, and pushback from members on the voyage with him. In London, secrets start to unravel as the wife of the aristocrat starts digging for information and Fiona, William’s wife, awaits her husband’s return. You can’t trust everyone. Will William make it home to his wife and family, or die trying to deliver the girl?

Lisa A Traugott did a fantastic job with the writing of To Rescue a Witch. The book starts with the perspective of Annaliese at her current home with her Pa and brother. The book then transitions to William serving justice on a ship practicing illegal activities. We then see Lord Hallewell ask William to retrieve his daughter Annaliese and former mistress Eleanor and bring them to London. William agrees and starts work to begin his long journey. The chapters alternate between the perspectives of William, Annaliese, Lady Margaret, Lord Percy, and Fiona. Each chapter allows the reader to view each character’s story told from their perspective. The author does a phenomenal job with the language, character development, research, and building of the plot. To Rescue a Witch is filled with drama, action, secrets, family, relationships, and a lot of shocking twists. There was a point in this novel my jaw was dropped open in shock because of the plot turns. The emotional connection, and the reactions I felt to each character enhanced my reading experiences as the plot thickened and the story continued to develop.

Overall, this is one of the best historical fictions I have read. As a history major, I loved the details and the time the author spent researching to ensure accuracy. I also loved the variety of the text styles between different narrators, perspectives, and the journal entries. I read this book in one sitting because it was so captivating, I could not put it down.

I recommend this book for adults who are interested in a thoroughly-researched and well-developed historical fiction novel.

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Blog Tour: Reap the Wind by Joel Burcat

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
REAP THE WIND
by
Joel Burcat
Action-Adventure / Suspense / Climate Change / EcoThriller
Publisher: Milford House Press, an imprint of Sunbury Books, Inc.
Date of Publication: February 6, 2024
Number of Pages: 215 pages
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THE PERFECT STORM meets THE FIRM.
Reap the Wind is a thrilling action/adventure novel that follows three lawyers as they embark on a treacherous journey from Houston to Cincinnati during a catastrophic hurricane. Josh Goldberg is on a mission to be with his girlfriend for the birth of their child. Along the way, they’ll face terrifying obstacles like tornadoes, hailstorms, and driving rain. But the real danger may come from within as they struggle to survive each other’s company. His two travel companions—his best friend, a drug-addicted lawyer, and his conniving boss who has her own agenda.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable odyssey that might just be a suicide trip.
PRAISE FOR REAP THE WIND:
“Reap the Wind is a bold, bracing and blisteringly original take on the legal thriller form. Joel Burcat has fashioned a seminal tale focusing on the nightmare of all road trips in which a storm raging outside the car is matched only by the storm raging within. Burcat dares to tread on the hallowed ground of John Grisham and Scott Turow and ends up blazing a fresh, daring literary tale of his own. Not to be missed!”
—Jon Land, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
 
CLICK TO PURCHASE FROM:
Joel Burcat is an award-winning author of three environmental legal thrillers: Drink to Every Beast (illegal dumping of toxic waste), Amid Rage (a coal mine permit battle), and Strange Fire (a fracking dispute). His most recent book, Reap the Wind, is about three lawyers trying to drive from Houston to Cincinnati in a climate change-induced hurricane.
 
He has received a number of awards, including the Gold Medal for environmental fiction from Readers’ Favorite for Strange Fire, and as a Finalist in the Next Generation Indie Book Awards for Amid Rage. He has written numerous short stories. Burcat imbues his novels with facts to educate his readers about critical environmental issues while they are being entertained by the story.
Burcat’s books are infused with realism developed over a forty plus year career as an environmental lawyer.
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Review

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book from Lone Star Literary in exchange for my honest review.

“Reap the Wind” by Joel Burcat is a suspenseful and thrilling action novel with a touch of romance. The story follows Joel Goldberg, a Philadelphia native who finds himself in Houston for a legal conference organized by his boss, Diane, to enhance their business reach. While attending the seminars, Joel struggles to concentrate as his pregnant fiancé, Kiesha, flies back home alone. Unfortunately, a tropical storm hits their paths, causing delays and complications. Kiesha encounters an unexpected person from her past while waiting in a hospital room, far from home. Meanwhile, Joel embarks on a perilous journey to make it to Kiesha before she gives birth.

The book starts with a gripping prologue that introduces the storm discussed throughout the story. The first chapter starts with Joel at the conference, pondering over his relationship with Kiesha. The chapters alternate between Joel’s and Kiesha’s perspectives. The author skillfully describes the various storms and weather variations Joel encounters with his team, making the journey adventurous with unexpected twists and turns. Kiesha faces her challenges as she waits anxious and alone. The aftermath of the storm affects the areas it hits, as well as Kiesha and Joel’s relationship.

Overall, “Reap the Wind” is an engaging, well-written, and captivating novel that keeps readers on edge from beginning to end. This quick read captured my attention from the start, and I was drawn to the prologue and the epilogue. Joel Burcat does a great job writing a book that has descriptive and inviting language. The plot was well-developed with planted moments in the novel that kept me turning pages. The ending wasn’t what I expected, which I enjoyed, and I enjoyed the backstory of the relationship between Kiesha and Joel and the supporting character roles. I could tell the author took time to ensure this was a well-rounded novel and ensured the information presented about storms was accurate.

Of course, when the dust settles and the rain stops, the sun will shine again. I recommend this novel to anyone interested in an environmental thriller.

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Blog Tour: Magic Machine Series – Devotionals from a Soulless Machine

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
MAGIC MACHINE SERIES
by
Preston Lewis
and Harriet Kocher Lewis
The intent of these books was to see how artificial intelligence (A.I.) dealt with the Bible and with humor. Since A.I. is generated by godless algorithms and computers, the authors sought to see if ChatGPT would treat faith issues with respect, especially in a world where Christianity is coming under increasing attacks and where the architects of A.I. seem to demean religion regularly. Additionally, the authors sought to see if A.I. had a sense of humor and if ChatGPT could generate rib-tickling jokes based on some standard comic memes and on topical and controversial issues in contemporary culture.
The results were surprising with A.I. generally being respectful of religious issues but failing to show a refined sense of humor. The books provide as much insight on artificial intelligence’s “thinking” as much as it does faith and comedy.
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With the release of OpenAI making ChatGPT available to the public in 2022, the authors wondered how a soulless machine would interpret biblical verses.  Would the results from a godless computer be derogatory or supportive of their Christian beliefs?  Using some of the most beloved verses as well as several of the more disturbing passages from the Bible, Preston and Harriet Lewis began a faith journey through artificial intelligence that provided surprising results.

Devotionals from a Soulless Machine: A Journey of Faith through Artificial Intelligence takes the reader along as these two laypersons explore how A.I. interprets God’s message and the basic tenets of Christianity.  The co-authors prompted ChatGPT to develop a devotional of 500 words or less along with a related prayer on more than a hundred biblical verses, including some of the most-recognized verses as well as some of the most obscure or vile passages never covered in Sunday school lessons.

In the end the exercise provided the authors with some reassurances about how artificial intelligence can support religious growth as well as raising questions about the technology’s long-term implications for the religious experience.  Devotionals from a Soulless Machine: A Journey of Faith through Artificial Intelligence provides an eye-opening look into the majesty of Christian convictions, even in the age of algorithms and chatbots.

Preston Lewis is the award-winning author of more than 50 novels and nonfiction books as well as numerous articles, short stories and book reviews. He began his career working at four Texas newspapers before moving into higher education communications and marketing at Texas Tech University and Angelo State University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Baylor University plus master’s degrees from Ohio State University in journalism and Angelo State in history. Lewis’s honors include two Spur Awards for western novels and articles from Western Writers of America as well as nine Will Rogers Medallion Awards for western humor, novels, short stories and articles. Harriet Kocher Lewis is a retired physical therapist and academician at Angelo State University, where she co-authored or edited numerous scientific articles or professional presentations. Her other writings include several published meditations for her church. As a member of an American Physical Therapy Association work group, she helped write the advanced level clinical education curriculum for therapists nationally. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biology/PT at Baylor University as well as a PT certificate from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. Lewis also has a master’s degree from Texas Tech University in health, physical education and recreation with an industrial engineering minor. She is the wife of Preston Lewis, the mother of two and the grandmother of five.

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Review
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review from Lone Star Literary.

Devotions from a Soulless Machine, A Journey of Faith through Artificial Intelligence, is a vastly unique novel that dives into Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT. In recent years, ChatGPT has been at the forefront of many conversations as people use technology to shorten their time on tasks. (I interacted with an Electrical Engineer who uses AI at home to help streamline processes for his kids. The authors take a unique approach to dive into whether AI can be used to generate devotionals. The authors do extensive research, using comparative analysis to give the reader full perspective. I commend the authors for taking on such a daunting topic. Preston Lewis and Harriet Kocher Lewis do a wonderful job creating such a thought-provoking book that encourages readers to think outside the box regarding Artificial Intelligence and its impact on religion.

It is interesting to see how ChatGPT generates responses based on the loaded knowledge of the Bible. Numerous factors go into each response and adjustments can be made to tailor the response. A scripture was typed into ChatGPT and a devotional was generated. Each chapter was catered to a different topic with subtopics throughout.

For example:

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8 (KJV)

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:

it is the gift of God.”

AI-generated devotional example:

In a world often driven by striving and merit, the words of Ephesians 2:8 serves as a refreshing oasis of divine truth. This verse encapsulates the heart of the gospel message–a message of grace,

redemption, and transformation.

The above is a small excerpt from the book. In the end, the authors emphasize that religion is a personal matter between us and God. Machines cannot replace divine intervention and guidance by the Holy Spirit. As a believer, for me, AI is missing the personal connection that comes from someone led by Christ. The overall consensus is that AI can only do so much and will lack emotional intelligence when generating devotionals. AI will continue to adapt to the different variants but some topics may sound similar and wording may be reused.

Devotionals from a Soulless Machine was an overall interesting read and very engaging throughout. The authors did a great job with the open dialogue back and forth with the AI. I studied how to communicate better with search engines to generate desired results, and this reminded me a lot of that.

The devotional is a great read for anyone interested in seeing a different side of AI and its potential impact on religion.

FOR DIRECT LINKS TO EACH POST ON THIS TOUR, UPDATED DAILY, 
or visit the blogs directly:

12/13/23

Hall Ways Blog

Series Spotlight

12/13/23

LSBBT Blog

BONUS Stop

12/14/23

Forgotten Winds

Review Jokes

12/15/23

Book Fidelity

Review Devotionals

12/16/23

The Real World According to Sam

Review Jokes

12/17/23

The Plain-Spoken Pen

Review Devotionals

12/18/23

Jennie Reads

Review Jokes

12/19/23

Librariel Book Adventures

Review Devotionals

12/20/23

It’s Not All Gravy

Review Jokes

12/21/23

Rox Burkey Blog

Review Devotionals

12/21/23

The Page Unbound

Review Jokes
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Blog Tour : Conquergood & the Center of the Intelligible Mystery of Being by CG Fewston

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
 

 

CONQUERGOOD & THE CENTER
OF THE INTELLIGIBLE
MYSTERY OF BEING
by
CG Fewston
 
 
Science Fiction / Dystopian / Steampunk
Date of Publication: October 17, 2023
Number of Pages: 381 pages 
 
 
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One of resilience and transformation, Conquergood’s life-changing discovery explores the depths of family, memory, love, and the mysteries that lie at the heart of the universe. 
 
In 2183, Jerome Conquergood is an outcast roaming the abandoned and crumbling skyscrapers of Old York City outside the Korporation’s seductive and dizzying headquarters, a post-apocalyptic security-city for the mega-rich. Despite his hatred for the techno-optimism and the Korporation, Conquergood is compelled to save his mysterious twin brother Vincent by joining the Korporation, a mega-corporate and governmental entity in a world oppressed to peace.
 
 
 
 
 
Photo credit: Thor
The American novelist CG FEWSTON has been a Visiting Scholar at the American Academy in Rome (Italy), a Visiting Fellow at Hong Kong’s CityU, & he’s been a member of the Hemingway Society, Americans for the Arts, PEN America, Club Med, & the Royal Society of Literature. He’s also been a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA) based in London. He has a B.A. in English, an M.Ed. in Higher Education Leadership (honors), an M.A. in Literature (honors), and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing & Fiction. He was born in Texas in 1979.
 
Fewston is the author of several short stories and novels. His works include A Father’s Son, The New America: Collection, The Mystic’s Smile ~ A Play in 3 Acts, Vanity of Vanities, A Time to Love in Tehran, Little Hometown, America, A Time to Forget in East Berlin, and Conquergood & the Center of the Intelligible Mystery of Being.
 
 
Review

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review from Lone Star Literary.

Conquergood begins with Jerome Conquergood reflecting on pieces of his past in Old York City. He remembers moments with his brother and mother, the past of a once thriving city now overrun with the Korporation. He either joins the Korporation or starves. Jerome accepted a job in the Turnkey Department of the authoritative Korporation. He must navigate his new normal even though he hates the Korporation and what it has done to the world he once knew. Jerome must put his best foot forward to unpack his own forgotten past, the secrets surrounding his brother Vincent, and the leveled secrets of the Korporation. Will he figure everything out or die trying? 

Conquergood and the Center of the Intelligible Mystery of Being is a captivating novel that grabs the attention of the reader right from the beginning. The author uses a variety of descriptive words throughout the text, creating a novel with multiple levels. The book is something you start and finish in one sitting. The author does a great job with his writing style, making it readable for all. I am typically interested in historical fiction, and this book captivates me with in-depth world-building and references to present-day people and events. The text reflects that author C.G. Fewston took his time developing every aspect of this novel to make it inviting to all readers. 

Jerome is a character that is developed with depth, integrity, strength, and his personality unfolds as he becomes a part of the Korporation in an attempt to locate his brother. Jerome is faced with many challenges throughout the novel, forcing him to challenge his own moral compass to achieve his goal of solving the mysteries of his lost brother Vincent. The author allows the reader to be transported into the story, interacting with the different levels of the Korporation, discovering the past and the goals of the Korporation, and deciphering between truth and lies. The ending had me yelling at the screen in shock. 

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in thought-provoking science fiction. This book encourages the reader to think critically and challenge themselves while reading.

 
 
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2nd: $50 Amazon card + eBook or paperback
3rd: $25 Amazon card + eBook or paperback
4th: Book Lover’s gift bundle + eBook or paperback
5th: Book Lover’s blanket + eBook or paperback
6th: Book Lover’s tote bag + eBook or paperback
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Blog Tour: The Edge of Too Late by Jan Sikes

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
 
THE EDGE OF TOO LATE
Harbor Pointe Series, #5
by
Jan Sikes
Ghost Suspense / Contemporary Short Stories / Action & Adventure Romance
Publisher: RiJan Publishing
Date of Publication: November 28, 2023
Number of Pages: 126 pages 
 
 
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Brandon Miller has his dream job, financial security, and he’s madly in love. Only one thing is missing—a commitment.
Angela Cooper’s ex-husband left her with deep scars, souring her on the concept of marriage. She’s not interested in a do-over. Not with Brandon or anyone. Her heart is locked securely away behind a thick wall.
With a ring in his pocket and hope in his heart, Brandon arranges a romantic getaway to the historic Harbor Pointe Inn, where he plans to pop the question.
Before they reach the inn, Angela’s got her camera in hand and ghosts on her mind. But they arrive to find a much more tangible horror.
Accident or foul play?
Someone is up to no good, and Angela is the next target. When suspects can be worldly or otherworldly, danger and secrets lurk everywhere.
Poised at the perilous edge of too late, Angela and Brandon face the fight of their lives.
 
Jan Sikes writes compelling and creative stories from the heart.
 
She openly admits that she never set out in life to be an author. But she had a story to tell. Not just any story, but a true story that rivals any fiction creation. She brought the entertaining true story to life through fictitious characters in an intricately woven tale encompassing four books, accompanying music CDs, and a book of poetry and art.
And now, this author can’t find a way to put down the pen. She continues to write fiction and has published numerous award-winning short stories and novels.
Jan is an active blogger, an avid fan of Texas music, and a grandmother of five. She resides in North Texas.
 

Review

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

 

Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review from Lone Star Literary.

Book 5 of the Harbor Pointe series starts with a warm-into before you dive-into rollercoaster of emotions. Brandon Miller is our main character, successful and in love with his partner, Angela, who is still dealing with the aftermath of her divorce and is still hesitant about her commitment to Brandon. A vacation is just what the two needed. What is supposed to be a relaxing vacation turns into a nightmare that both are fighting to wake up from. Will both Angela and Brandon get their versions of a happy ending?

The Edge of Too Late can be read as standalone. I have not read any of the other novels in the series, but I hope to read them after diving into this one. Overall the author does a fantastic job with her style of writing, generating warm feelings and emotions for the readers. This book is a perfect balance of suspense, relationships, family, love, danger, and paranormal activity. 

Brandon is developed as a man set on marrying his dream girl and protecting her at any cost. Angela is a woman with a scarred past that has left her with a heart hard to trust others. Both are looking for an opportunity to relax when they arrive at the inn. They soon come to realize that the inn has many dark secrets that have them both trying to decipher if what they are seeing is real. Both characters must trust their instincts as they navigate an unfamiliar territory. 

Author Jan Sikes does a great job intertwining the various levels of the story and provides good depth. This isn’t some happy-go-lucky romance novel that sails to a happy ending. The Edge of Too Late is a well-written work of art that has you on the edge of your seat not knowing what the next chapter will hold but excited to see how everything unfolds.

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Blog Tour: The Brotherhood of Pandora

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
The Brotherhood of Pandora
by
David L. Nichols
Historical Fiction / Nautical Fiction / Action & Adventure
Publisher: Moontower Press
November 14, 2022
313 Pages
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To combat Napoleon’s increasing interest in the Caribbean and help pressure France to sell New Orleans to America, Vice-President Thomas Jefferson enlists the aid of friend and naval hero Captain Jacob May. He asks Captain May to wage a clandestine war against the French in the Caribbean not as part of the US Navy, but as pirates.
To accomplish this, Captain May uses the cutting-edge technology of 1799: Girardoni air rifles, Fulton’s self-propelled torpedoes, a submarine, cannons with rifling, and Pandora, a specially modified ship. Pandora’s crew also holds a secret—two women masquerading as able-bodied seamen. Captain May molds his crew into the Brotherhood of Pandora and gives Jefferson chaos in the Caribbean.

CLICK TO PURCHASE!

AMAZON │ MOONTOWER PRESS

David Nichols has published three books and a number of articles on building small wooden boats and traditional sails. He also taught wooden boat building at WoodenBoat School and Great Lakes Boatbuilding School. In addition, he wrote and directed an hour-long “how-to” video on wooden boat building and has written many scripts for industrial and commercial films. This background allows him to accurately portray the boats and ships of the late 18th century and weave a cohesive and compelling story. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas, Austin.
◆ YouTube ◆ Goodreads ◆
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Signed copy of THE BROTHERHOOD OF PANDORA
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Book Highlight: Tested By Fire by C.J. Peterson

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Tested By Fire
by C.J. Peterson

Christian Fiction / Suspense / Romance
Page Count: 278 pages
Publication Date: August 21, 2023
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Meet Robin
Flynn: a woman of artistic soul and iron will, who forges metal and paints
vibrant canvases as an escape from life’s ceaseless challenges. Raised in the
gritty trade of welding, she inherits not just her father’s skill but also his
audacity. But her creative passion takes a daring turn when she accidentally
ignites an abandoned warehouse. Instead of ruin, her act inexplicably wins her
gratitude from the local firefighters. Emboldened, Robin embarks on a
clandestine mission to purge her crumbling town, Hemlock, of its dilapidated
relics.


Enter Nate Mitchell: a man standing on the cusp of his dreams. As he
trains to become a fire marshal, he’s also courting the woman he believes to be
the love of his life. Everything seems perfect until destiny throws a spark
into his meticulously planned world.
A pulse-pounding question burns at the heart of this riveting tale: What happens
when a man committed to extinguishing fires falls deeply in love with a woman
setting them? When faith and love clash like fire and water, will they quench
each other or evolve into something even more powerful?


Dive into Tested By Fire, a Christian Fiction saga that weaves
romance, suspense, and spirituality into a tapestry of human resilience.
Inspired by 1 Peter 1:7, this story reminds us that our faith—far more precious
than gold—emerges stronger through the crucible of trials, as we await the day
when it illuminates the entire world with its glory.

1 Peter 1:7 (NIV) “These trials will show that your faith is genuine.
It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold–though your faith is far
more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many
trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus
Christ is revealed to the whole world.”

PURCHASE FROM:

AMAZON     BARNES & NOBLE  

APPLE BOOKS     KOBO



C.J. Peterson is a ten-time award-winning,
multi-genre published author since 2012. She is also a podcaster, blogger, and
publisher who knows how to relate well to folks of all ages. She has multiple
books and series including:

Grace Restored Series, The Holy
Flame Trilogy, and the Divine
Legacy Series, which have characters crossing over
storylines. In these books, the spiritual realm crosses into the physical. This
adventurous journey will have you holding onto the pages for dear life! The
Sands of Time Trilogy is an
exciting sci-fi series that will have you on the edge of your seat! This
series follows a group of teens with abilities as they go through the US to
rescue their siblings from the Challenger, their sadistic creator who has the
money & power to win at any cost. Chain Reaction follows Trip
and Tori as they go through time guiding their ancestors to change crucial
decisions. In changing their past to save future generations, will Trip and
Tori cease to exist? 

Connect with C.J.
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Blog Tour : Facing the Enemy by DiAnn Mills

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
FACING THE ENEMY
by
DiAnn Mills
Christian Fiction / Suspense / Romance
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Date of Publication: September 5, 2023
Number of Pages: 352 pages
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When the long-awaited reunion between Risa and her brother, Trenton, ends in tragedy, Risa is riddled with guilt, unable to cope with the responsibility she feels over his death. On leave from the FBI, Risa returns to her former career as an English teacher at a local college, only to see her past and present collide when one of her students, Carson Mercury, turns in an assignment that reads like an eyewitness account of her brother’s murder, with details never revealed publicly.
Alarmed by Carson’s inside knowledge of Trenton’s death, Risa reaches out to her former partner at the FBI. Special Agent Gage Patterson has been working a string of baby kidnappings, but he agrees to help look into Carson’s background. Risa and Gage soon discover their cases might be connected as a string of high-value thefts have occurred at properties where security systems were installed by Carson’s stepfather and children have gone missing. There’s a far more sinister plot at play than they ever imagined, and innocent lives are in danger.

 

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She is a storyteller and creates action-packed, suspense-filled novels to thrill readers. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, and International Thriller Writers. DiAnn continues her passion for helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.

Rating 5 out of 5 Stars

Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review from Lone Star Literary.

The story begins from the perspective of Risa Jacobs, an agent working for special task force with the Houston Police Department and her partner Gage. Risa gets a text from her brother to meet up with him to catch up. Everything is going smoothly until tragedy strikes putting a dent in everyone’s life. After receiving a haunting note left on her car, she must make quick decisions as she pivots her life in a different direction. Forced to change careers for protection, she has found herself back in the classroom as an English professor. Risa must battle with her own internal demons as she struggles to adjust to her new life while also still being connected to her old career. Could her brother’s tragedy have been avoided? Will she be able to define the line between justice and revenge?

The author begins the story by introducing a strong female lead. Risa Jackson is such a powerhouse of a character that grows so much from start to finish. It is evident that the author took the time developing the storyline surrounding each character and connected everything well. The chapters divert between the point of view of Gage and of Risa. Gage is developed as a knight in shining armor with a complex past. The two work together to solve the mystery surrounding her brother’s tragedy. There are twists and turns around every corner in this story. From uncovering the mystery behind the string of baby kidnappings, to the many close calls with death, and potential budding romance, this book will have you captivated. Each supporting character adds more depth in the story and enhances the overall thickening plot. I was gripping the edge of my seat as I read this book. I had to finish the book in one sitting and am hoping for the possibility of book two or more. I loved that the book was based in Houston. I felt transported into the story with the characters living out every scene. The author used a diverse set of descriptive text to engage the reader during every moment. Definitely my favorite book read this year!

I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in a well written thrilling mystery novel.

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Blog Tour : Blue Running by Lori Ann Stephens

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
BLUE RUNNING
by
Lori Ann Stephens
Dystopian Fiction / Coming of Age / Suspense
Publisher: Moonflower Publishing
Date of Publication: November, 2022
Number of Pages: 334 pages 
 
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In the new Republic of Texas, guns are compulsory and nothing is forgiven. Blue Running is a gripping coming-of-age thriller set in post-secessionist Texas. A fast-paced, page-turning book, it looks unflinchingly at what the future could hold, and finds hope there.

 
Fourteen-year-old Bluebonnet Andrews is on the run across the Republic of Texas. An accident with a gun killed her best friend but everyone in the town of Blessing thinks it was murder. Even her father – the town’s drunken deputy – believes she did it. Now, she has no choice but to run. In Texas, murder is punishable by death.
 
On the road she meets Jet, a pregnant young woman of Latin American heritage. Jet is secretive about her past but she’s just as determined as Blue to get out of Texas before she’s caught and arrested. Together, the two form an unlikely kinship as they make their way past marauding motorcycle gangs, the ever-watchful Texas Rangers, and armed strangers intent on abducting them – or worse. When Blue and Jet finally reach the wall, will they be able to cross the border, or will they be shot down in cold blood like the thousands who have gone before them?
 
Some things are worth dying for.
 
PRAISE FOR BLUE RUNNING:
“Brilliant.” —Heat Magazine
 
“A fast-paced story that races along, and stays with you long after you’ve finished it.” — The American
“An important and unforgettable read.” — Armadillo Magazine
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Novelist, librettist, lecturer Lori Ann Stephens grew up in North Texas, where she developed an addiction to the arts. Her novels for children and adults include Novalee and the Spider Secret, Some Act of Vision, and Song of the Orange Moons, and her award-winning work has been noted by Glimmer Train Stories, The Chicago Tribune, and the English National Opera. She teaches Writing and Critical Reasoning undergraduate courses, as well as creative writing graduate courses, at Southern Methodist University. She lives in Texas and is a bit mad about her cat.

Review
Rating 5 out of 5 Stars

Disclaimer: I received an audiobook copy of this book in exchange for my honest review from Lone Star Literary.

Blue Running is a well-written thriller-style story that takes the reader on a wild ride from the beginning. I received a gifted copy of the audiobook, narrated by Ashley Kaplan Rose. Blue Running is the first book I’ve read by the author and the narrator.

The book is a dystopian novel set in the future. Bluebonnet, Blue, Andrews is the main character in the story. Blue lives alone with her deputy Dad in Blessing. She doesn’t have a strong memory of her mother, and her father isn’t keen on sharing any stories of her mother. Blue only has one memory of the moment when her mother left and that memory often turns into a nightmare as she lives on. She knows that her mother is still alive and outside of the borders of Texas. Blue’s character is a 14-year-old girl who sees herself as an outcast at her school during a time when patriotism is high and gun usage is even higher. She struggles to make friends until she meets a new girl in town. The two girls quickly become inseparable. Then the new school year starts and her best friend takes a seat at the popular table while Blue watches from afar. Blue finally gets the courage to confront her friend at home, during her visit an accidental death causes her life to change completely. Blue must learn to survive on the run with an unlikely acquaintance. Jet, Blue’s new running partner, is also escaping a life that no longer belongs to her. Both girls will face many trials, tribulations, and challenges, and have to make split-second decisions to survive.

The author does a phenomenal job with this novel. The writing style is both captivating and informative. The narrator allows the reader to be transported into the story and feel like they are a part of the action unfolding. Blue Running had me angry, sad, upset, and in tears, as I listened to their lives unfold. I felt such a strong connection to Jet and Blue and enjoyed Blue’s genuine curiosity. I was angry at the accusations made towards Blue and felt the girls’ loneliness; the author’s writing allowed me to be fully immersed in Jet’s and Blue’s emotions. It is a rare occasion that a book has me so awestruck. Bravo to the author for writing an amazing book and bravo to the narrator for doing such a great job with telling the story.

I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in a dystopian thriller novel.

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Continue reading Blog Tour : Blue Running by Lori Ann Stephens