Blog Tour: To Rescue a Witch by Lisa A. Traugott

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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

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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
 
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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: The Edge of Too Late by Jan Sikes

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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: Dead by Proxy by Manning Wolfe

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DEAD BY PROXY
Proxy Legal Thriller Series, Book 1
by
Manning Wolfe
Legal Thriller / Suspense / Action
Publisher: Starpath Books, LLC
Date of Publication: September 15, 2023
Number of Pages: 324 pages
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In this lawyer-on-the-run suspense drama, attorney Quinton Bell loses the trial of his career, and possibly his life.
Dead By Proxy takes you on a heart-pounding journey through the life of a criminal defense attorney whose world is wiped out. When Quinton loses a career-defining case, he finds himself being hunted by the very client he tried to save.
As Quinton navigates the treacherous path of survival, he is running from a powerful and relentless adversary who will stop at nothing to see him silenced. Finally landing in Houston, he hides in plain sight while re-inventing his new life as a trial lawyer.
When he’s forced to take on a high-profile murder case, he exposes himself and those he loves to danger. With each passing moment, the noose tightens, and he must draw on every ounce of wit to outsmart those who still want him dead.
Will Quinton Bell find a way out, or will he forever be a target in a deadly game of cat and mouse?
Dead By Proxy is the first book in the edgy Proxy Legal Thriller Series. If you like memorable characters, smart gritty action, and jaw-dropping twists, then you’ll love Manning Wolfe’s fast-paced page-turner.


PRAISE FOR DEAD BY PROXY:


“A riveting read that expertly teams courtroom drama and legal maneuvering with imminent danger, spine-tingling suspense, a touch of romance, and non-stop action. Talk about an adrenaline rush!” 
– Reedsy

“Manning Wolfe just put herself on my list of must-read authors!” 
–John Ellsworth

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.

The novel starts with a courtroom scene and the beginning of a murder trial with Byron Douglas, who we will later come to know as Quinton. Quinton is a confident, successful lawyer. The pivotal case will determine the tragedy of the rest of his life and force him to make quick changes to survive as he finds himself being hunted. Quinton flees from New York to Houston and starts a life as a criminal lawyer. He must work to continue to stay hidden in plain sight and try not to jeopardize his life and the lives of those around him. As the novel progresses we are encompassed in many twists, turns, and surprises. How far will someone go to get the justice they feel they deserve?

The author does a great job with this novel. She meticulously develops each character and allows the reader to feel like they are watching the story unfold right in front of them. You can tell the author did extensive research and allowed some of her true passion to shine throughout the text. Manning was descriptive with her writing style and encompassed what courtrooms are like. You can tell the author’s life as a lawyer shined through the pages as the mystery unraveled and the plot thickened. The novel reveals the extent the author took to make unfamiliar legal terms easier to understand. Manning does a great job of setting the scene in each chapter and makes any Houstonian feel nostalgic with references to the city. I enjoyed the lightheartedness of each character and the developed interactions. Dead by Proxy is one of the first legal thrillers I have read thus far and this book is such a great way to for me to jump into a new genre. This series debut novel is a winner and I look forward to the next titles in the series.

Since the book ends on a cliffhanger, you want more. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in a thrilling legal mystery. The book would be great for teens and older since the author works hard to keep the language clean.

Manning Wolfe, an award-winning author and attorney, writes cinematic-style, smart, fast-paced thrillers and crime fiction. Manning was recently featured on Oxygen TV’s: Accident, Suicide, or Murder, and has spoken at major book festivals around the world.
Manning’s legal thriller series, featuring Austin attorney Merit Bridges, includes Dollar Signs, Music Notes, Green Fees, and Chinese Wall.
Manning’s new Proxy Legal Thrillers Series, featuring Houston attorney Quinton Bell, includes Dead by Proxy, Hunted by Proxy, and Alive by Proxy.
Manning is co-author of Killer Set: Drop the Mic, and twelve additional Bullet Books Speed Reads.
As a graduate of Rice University and the University of Texas School of Law, Manning’s experience has given her a voyeur’s peek into some shady characters’ lives and a front-row seat to watch the good people who stand against them.
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Grand Prize: eBook copy of Dead by Proxy + $25 Amazon gift card
2nd & 3rd Prizes: eBook copy of Dead by Proxy
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Book Highlight: Tested By Fire by C.J. Peterson

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures

 

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

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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

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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
CLICK TO PURCHASE FROM:
 

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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Paperback of Blue Running
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Blog Tour: Copper Waters

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COPPER WATERS
Annalisse Series, Book 4
by
MARLENE M. BELL
 
Genre: International Mystery / Crime / Romantic Suspense
Publisher: Ewephoric Publishing
Date of Publication: October 7, 2022
Number of Pages: 340
 
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A rural New Zealand vacation turns poisonous.

Antiquities expert Annalisse Drury and tycoon Alec Zavos are at an impasse in their relationship when Alec refuses to clear up a paternity issue with an ex-lover.

Frustrated with his avoidance when their future is at stake, Annalisse accepts an invitation from an acquaintance to fly to New Zealand—hoping to escape the recent turbulence in her life.

But even Annalisse’s cottage idyll on thefamily sheep farm isn’t immune to intrigue.

Alec sends a mutual friend and detective, Bill Drake, to follow her, and a local resident who accompanies them from the Christchurch airport dies mysteriously soon after. A second violent death finds Annalisse and Bill at odds with the official investigations.

The local police want to close both cases as quickly as possible—without unearthing the town’s dirty secrets.

As she and Bill pursue their own leads at serious cost, the dual mysteries force Annalisse to question everything she thought she knew about family ties, politics, and the art of small-town betrayal.

CLICK TO ORDER

 
 
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Marlene M. Bell is an eclectic mystery writer, artist, photographer, and she raises sheep in beautiful East Texas with her husband, Gregg, three cats and a flock of horned Dorset sheep.
 
The Annalisse series — mysteries with a touch of romance — has received numerous honors including the Independent Press Award for Best Mystery (Spent Identity) and FAPA (Florida Author’s President’s Gold Award) for two other installments, Stolen Obsession and Scattered Legacy. She also penned the first of her children’s picture books, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team! based on true events from the Bell’s ranch. The simple text and illustrations are a touching tribute of compassion and love between a little girl and her lamb.
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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.
 

Copper Waters is book four in the Annalisse series. Copper Waters continues the story of Annalisse Drury and her whirlwind of a life. Annalisse has had an interesting life so far with the secrets invading her life. She decides to take an invitation from a friend to fly to New Zealand so search for her mother. Alec decides to have her watched by a mutual friend after a murder in the area is reported. Tensions continue to rise as another death surfaces. Bill and Annalisse decide to attempt to solve the murders individually and start digging. Do we know that some secrets want to be kept secrets? What will she find out and will she ever look at the people I’m her life the same way after?

I have not read any other books in the series. I started with book four and read the synopsis of the other books in the series. I did not feel lost or confused starting with book four. This book takes you on a journey from the start with a first chapter that dives right into the storyline without sugarcoating it. Chapter one dives straight into discussing an interrupted proposal with a curveball that causes challenges in their marriage. That is not the only challenge that she is facing as her life continues to be turned upside down as more secrets get unveiled from her past. Where is her mother? What is true and why are people so keen on sabotaging each other’s lives? Overall the storyline was enthralling with turns and twists that kept me captivated the entire time. The author did such a wonderful job with the story that I can’t wait to see how the story continues and how their lives continue to unfold.

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a great series to start a new mystery series with drama.

 
 
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02/21/23

Review

Bibliotica

02/21/23

Review

Hall Ways Blog

02/22/23

Review

Julia Picks 1

02/22/23

BONUS Promo

LSBBT Blog

02/23/23

Review

It’s Not All Gravy

02/23/23

Review

The Real World According to Sam

02/24/23

Review

Forgotten Winds

02/24/23

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Book Fidelity

02/25/23

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Librariel Book Adventures

02/26/23

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The Plain-Spoken Pen

02/27/23

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StoreyBook Reviews

02/28/23

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Boys’ Mom Reads

02/28/23

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Jennie Reads

03/01/23

Review

The Book’s Delight

03/02/23

Review

Rox Burkey Blog

03/02/23

Review

Chapter Break Book Blog

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Blog Tour: Sands of Times Trilogy

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures
SANDS OF TIME TRILOGY
by
C.J. PETERSON
Young Adult / Christian Fiction / Science Fiction
Publisher: Texas Sisters Press
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In the game of chess, there are moves and countermoves. This sci-fi series follows a group of teens with abilities as they go through the U.S. to rescue their siblings. The challenger in this is their sadistic creator, Professor Noah Roth, who has the money and power to win at any cost. This series has been described as “Stranger Things (minus the Mind Flayer portion) meets X-Men.” Don’t miss a single installment of this explosive, action-packed series!
Appointed Time (Sands of Time Trilogy, Book 1), 8/20/21, 268 pages.
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Race Against Time (Sands of Time Trilogy, Book 2), 10/1/21, 248 pages.
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Out of Time (Sands of Time Trilogy, Book 3), 1/25/22, 248 pages.
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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. C.J. and her husband currently run a hybrid publishing company, Texas Sisters Press, LLC, which CJ and her sisters founded in 2019.

She has authored multiple series including the Grace Restored Series, the Holy Flame Trilogy, the Divine Legacy Series, the Sands of Time Trilogy, the Adventures of Chief and Sarge, plus her recently released time travel book with a twist, Chain Reaction!

“While the stories are fiction, the journey is real.”

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Review

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars *****

*Disclaimer: A digital copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. I reviewed book three of this series. Please note the opinions in this review are solely my own and do not reflect the views of others.*

Book 1 – Summary 

The series starts of strong with the introduction of Professor Noah Roth. A professor whose search for a specific gene leads to the mysterious death of mothers. He is on the search for a gene that triggers supernatural gifts in babies. Two nurses’ step in to save two of the four babies with this specific gene from further exploitation. Hope and Ben Hunt, the two nurses, escaped to a small town in Texas. The two strikes a deal with the local Sheriff to ensure the secrecy and safety of the two children. This was until the professor sends two other youth with gifts to find them. A battle for survival leads to some sleep, one searching through the mind of the others, and a group of teens trying to save each other.  

Book 2 – Summary 

The trilogy continues in book two with Professor Noah’s possessive desire to find his “children.” The specific set of kids he created with the use of genetic modification. The Sheriff of Willow Bend, the small town in Texas Hope and Ben escaped to with Holly and Black, helps the youth group kids find Ben and Hope. Professor Noah took Ben and Hope with him during the first havoc that occurred in Willow Bend. The youth kids continue to do more digging into the professor to learn more about themselves but uncover shocking secrets. Professor Noah is still upset with Ben and Hope and seeks vengeance for stealing his “children.” The kids are in a race against time to make it Ben and Hope before the professor does something unimaginable to the two as an attempt for revenge.  

Book 3 – Full Review 

The trilogy continues with the youth group on the run from the professor, recovering from the events that occurred with Hope and Ben, and trying to rescue the remaining kids from the Wyoming and Oregon facilities. Everyone is trying to work together taking it one day and one moment at a time. Each child has their own specific gifts that help the group while some gifts allow for a tethered connect between the child and the professor. Any small slip up will cause the professor to figure out their state location and track them down to bring them back with him. The teens split up and headed in different directions to try to rescue their remaining siblings. Does the professor already know where they are?  

Each character was developed in a way that helped the other characters without taking too much from the storyline. You get to get to know the supporting characters and see relationships develop and flourish. This youth group has been through tough times and yet they try to work together supporting each other to achieve the goal, rescue their siblings without the professor getting alerted. These attempts do not come easy as tensions flare as people grow and change under the new experiences. Imagine being genetically manipulated and living under the guise your entire life to realize the person you have seen as father is not on your side. The characters go through a lot of changes, but the author does an excellent job of taking you on the journey with them.  

I started this series with book three and read summaries of book one and two. This book was captivating and caught my attention right from the start. I enjoyed the photographs of the characters in the beginning of the book and the dedication. I also liked that the book has a Christian influence where the youth pray for each other and the bible verses in the beginning of the text. I enjoyed the interaction between characters as they seek the best interest of each other. Throughout the text you will find scriptures, quotes, and moments of prayer between the youth group. This was my first time reading this type of Christian text and I enjoyed it. I loved the way the author intertwined faith, suspense, relationships, and coming of age moments throughout the text. The story was developed in a way that caught and kept my attention throughout. I commend the author for producing such a beautifully written text.  

 I highly recommend this book for teens interested in a Christian science fiction read. This is the first of this kind that I have read, and I enjoyed it. 

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Continue reading Blog Tour: Sands of Times Trilogy

Blog Tour: The Uvalde Raider

Posted on by LibrAriel Book Adventures

 

THE UVALDE RAIDER 

A Templar Family Novel

BY BEN H. ENGLISH

Publisher: Creative Texts Publishers
Publication Date: April 17, 2021
Pages: 229 Pages
Categories: Historical Fiction / Military / Texas
The time is the eve of the First Gulf War. The place an abandoned World War II emergency landing strip for heavy bombers, nestled amid the near countless miles upon miles of wide openness in West Texas. Here a climactic battle will be fought, while the rest of the world focuses on what would become known as Operation Desert Storm. But in some ways, the stakes here are even higher as men from other places and past conflicts gamble all that they are, and all they ever were, to prevent a catastrophic terrorist attack unthinkable before on an American city. One group seeks wholesale slaughter, the murder of helpless civilians on a massive scale. The other strives to stop this evil in any way possible, and by whatever means necessary. The key to either side’s success or failure? One old Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress, an enduring symbol from another war and ensuing catastrophe of a different era. This relic of a not so distant past is named ‘The Uvalde Raider,’ and this is its story…

Purchase: Amazon | Front Street Books

Personalized Copies: http://thestablealpine.com

Ben H. English is an eighth-generation Texan who grew up in the Big Bend. At seventeen he joined the Marines, ultimately becoming a chief scout-sniper as well as an infantry platoon sergeant. Later he worked counterintelligence and traveled to over thirty countries on four continents.
At Angelo State University he graduated Magna Cum Laude along with other honors. Afterwards Ben had a career in the Texas Highway Patrol, holding several instructor billets involving firearms, driving, patrol procedures and defensive tactics.
After retirement he decided to try his hand at writing. His first effort, Yonderings, was accepted by a university press and garnered some awards. His second, Destiny’s Way, led to a long term, multi-book contract.  This was followed by Out There: Essays on the Lower Big Bend and now his second fictional work, The Uvalde Raider.
His intimate knowledge of what he writes about lends credence and authenticity to his work. Ben knows how it feels to get hit and hit back, or being thirsty, cold, wet, hungry, alone or exhausted beyond imagination. Finally, he knows of not only being the hunter, but also the hunted.
Ben and his wife have two sons who both graduated from Annapolis. He still likes nothing better than grabbing a pack and some canteens and heading out to where few others venture.
Just as he has done throughout most of his life…
Find out more about Ben English’s Adventures on Facebook,Amazon Author Page, or visit Ben on his Website
Review

Rating :★★★★★
Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of a finished book from Lone Star Literary Life partner in exchange for my honest review. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher. The copy used in this review is a finished copy of the book. #partner #LSBBT

This action-packed military historical fiction focuses on one moment in history that shaped the overall way the world handled situations that followed. The author uses a narrator-style writing style to allow the reader to be taken on a journey through time and nostalgic moments. The main characters face hard times, challenges, and overcome some of their greatest obstacles all while seeking opportunities to see the truth in every situation. They encounter terrorists, government secrets, and learn to rely on each other in one of the most daring moments in their career. It seems the men have gotten themselves tied up in a sticky situation that they may or may not get out of. You’ll need to read the book to find out.

Overall, the book is filled with twists and turns and will have you sitting on the edge of your seat waiting for the next event to occur. The patrotism is evident as you continue to navigate your way through the detailed, engaging explanation of each scene. The author does a wonderful job with character development, terms used, and you can tell he did his research before completing this novel. If you’re a native Texan then this novel will make you proud to be a Texan.

I enjoyed the religious aspect of the novel and the moments of wholesomeness. I also enjoyed the moments of reflection. I love historical fiction novels. I studied history in college and have read quite a few books in this realm and this is one of my favorites. There is a moment after the rise of action moments where the book takes a slow pace, but overall I feel does not take away from the story and provides depth.

The question is, can you handle this type of novel and the surprising plot? I guess you will have to read it and find out. This is book one of this series and I am confident you will want more.

This book is suited for adults but can also be read by older teens interested in historical fiction.

Click to visit the LONE STAR LITERARY LIFE TOUR PAGE for direct links to each stop on the tour, updated daily, or visit the blogs directly:

6/28/21

Review

Reading by Moonlight

6/28/21

Kick-off Promo

Hall Ways Blog

6/29/21

BONUS Promo

LSBBT Blog

6/29/21

Author Interview

The Book’s Delight

6/29/21

Excerpt

StoreyBook Reviews

6/30/21

Review

Julia Picks 1

6/30/21

Character Spotlight

Chapter Break Book Blog

7/1/21

Review

Librariel Book Adventures

7/1/21

Guest Post

All the Ups and Downs

7/2/21

Review

The Clueless Gent

7/2/21

Series Spotlight

Missus Gonzo

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