Penguin and Moose Book Review

Thursday, December 19, 2019


Penguin has a problem--he doesn't know how to fly. He and his friend, Moose, try everything they can think of to get him airborne: balloons, treetop starts, cocooning like a caterpillar. But no matter how hard they try, Penguin remains firmly on the ground. At the end of the day, a tired and disappointed Penguin realizes that he has something better than the ability to fly--a friend that supports and loves him no matter what. Written by best-selling author Hannah C. Hall, this series debut celebrates the power of friendship. Children are sure to fall in love with the adorable Penguin and Moose.

Review - I love that Penguin learns to appreciate his friend and what he did for him. I think gratitude is an important lesson for children to learn. I also like the overall lesson of friendship and love. There are some great truths in this story. The book is a clever and cute idea. My children enjoyed listening to this story. The writing is a little clunky and wordy for younger children. To learn more about Penguin & Moose, click here.

Please note that I received a free copy of this book, however, this is my honest opinion. Please also note that this post contains affiliate links.

The Christmas Kiss Grand Finale Blitz

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

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

Launch - Note from the Author

Welcome back to Bluestone River, a prairie town in Northern Illinois. I had great fun writing Emma O’Connell’s story, especially after Parker Davis comes to town. . .


"The Christmas Kiss By Virginia McCullough is another romantic adventure that takes two people on a wonderful journey. They have to find a way to work together and to learn that maybe they both have someone else out there for them. They just had to look. I am giving this book five stars and recommending it all the romance readers out there."


"Virginia McCullough has a knack for bringing small towns to life on the pages of her novels – with characters you easily care about and plots that reflect both the realities of life and the wonder of romance. The writing style is smooth and engaging, and the romance moves along at a realistic pace . . . I liked the protagonists being a little older than 20s and early 30s – it added an extra dose of wisdom to their personalities which in turn resulted in less of (and shorter-lasting, less earth-shattering) the typical misunderstandings that we so often see in romance novels. Another great read for the season – or anytime of year, for that matter!"


Parker had to laugh at himself. As much as he’d tried, he couldn’t stop looking at Emma, not from the first glimpse of her approaching him. Maybe it was the sassy way she’d twirled her cane that intrigued him. Straight dark hair set off large brown eyes that lit up in fun, but turned serious when something subtle shifted her mood. She was taller than average. Her body was curvy and strong—easy to picture her as that girl jock she brought up.

He bet Emma was a good dancer. He closed his eyes and there he was, holding her close and slow dancing on the pier. Now why had that occurred to him? He didn’t know her. Not even a little bit. He gave the railing a little bump with his palm, as if that could knock her image out of his brain.

onemused - Review

"This book has a lot of build-up to the romance/relationship and plenty of talking to really bring you into their relationship. This was a sweet and clean romance that builds really well over time. The Christmas setting also really shines through with the build-up over the season and plenty of Christmasy scenes. I loved this older/mature romance of two people who know what they want out of life and a partner. This was a fun, Christmas-time romance read overall."

EmpowerMoms - Review

"I liked seeing Parkers daughter Nicole blossom during the story, along with Parker and Emmas friendship. I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait to read more books about Bluestone River!"

Pause for Tales - Review

"This was another sweet Christmas read that features a couple who are older and more mature as they are in their late 30's and early 40's. It was refreshing to read about that age and the author does a good job of showing their maturity in their lives. . . . This was a cute holiday read that brought this family together."

Remembrancy - Review

". . . I adored visiting this community and its residents again. The added Bluestone Holiday celebrations added to the charm of the book. The romance, while fairly fast, progresses in a believable manner."


"If you enjoy family-oriented stories, it you believe in second chances, if you are thrilled with first kisses and new beginnings, you will want to read The Christmas Kiss. This is my first book by Virginia McCullough and she has convinced me that Bluestone River is a special place -- I hope to have a chance to go back!"

Hallie Reads - Review

"The Christmas Kiss is sweet and fun and full of holiday cheer, a nice addition to the Back to Bluestone River series. . . . I enjoyed my time with them and am looking forward to more of Bluestone River once again."


"I am giving The Christmas Kiss five plus stars. Readers who enjoy heartwarming and clean romance will not want to miss this one. I look forward to the next addition to the Back to Bluestone River series."


"I love a friends-to-more story, especially when it takes place at Christmastime! In The Christmas Kiss, Emma and Parker initially seem like an unlikely pair, but they both have good hearts and care about others. . . . I enjoyed this rich, full-bodied cup of Christmas love."


"I can't stress how much I loved this book! . . . This is a delightful book that will be sure to put you in the Christmas cheer!

I highly recommend this book."


"I really enjoyed this one. I'm glad to be visiting Bluestone River again. I love the small town feel of the book. I really loved Emma. . . . This book has plenty of heart and feels."

Harlie's Books - Review

"Ms. McCullough wrote a book that I desperately needed with only two weeks left in school. It showed me some things that I would have never thought about, characters that I grew to love and an ending that was beautiful. Not to mention the birds in it and I learned a lot from Parker when it came to the care that wounded birds need."

SPLASHES of Joy - Review

"I really like the Bluestone River community and enjoyed being back for a visit. The scenes and details of this little place makes me feel at home. And with the Christmas decorations and festivities, it is just when you want to be for a part of your Christmas Season. I encourage you to check out this book. You are sure to have hours of entertainment, enjoyment and Holiday pleasure as you read The Christmas Kiss."


"One of the best parts of the story is getting to catch-up with Ruby and Mike as [they're] excepting their first child now. McCullough cleverly put their lives in the life of Emma and Parker - showing how tight-knit Bluestone River is. . . . McCullough has already charmed me into loving this series. . ."


"A delightful holiday romance! . . . I recommend this book to anyone enjoying a small town romance with a close knit group of family and friends playing a key part in the story line. Sweet interactions, a whimsical setting and a romance sure to please."


"I like that it is a slow burn kind of a relationship between the two of them, especially considering their frequent opposing viewpoints. Then again, the ones that start out at odds often lead to a more intense attachment, right? And I like having romances with "older people," (though we're not old at this age!) for a bit of a change. Add in all of the holiday feels and you have another winner in this series."


"Get ready for that warm, fuzzy, Christmasy love feeling folks because this book fairly oozes with it! That's right. This second installment in the Bluestone River series brings Parker and Emma together at this perfect time of the year and it is nothing less than yummy. . . . Ms. McCullough truly deserves a huge round of applause for providing us with one of the most wonderful reads of the Season."


"The attraction between the two is immediate and apparent, but doesn’t rush through. It is a slow and natural progression with how they work together to bring the sanctuary to life. . . . If you enjoy a clean romance without Christian references – these books fit that description. This one was a “curl up on the couch, cup of cocoa, warm blanket, cloudy day” read. Cozy and beautiful."

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

The Christmas Kiss
(Back to Bluestone River #2)
By Virginia McCullough
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
December 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Will working together

…lead to together forever?

Recently divorced, Parker Davis needs to focus on his new job so he can provide a stable home for his daughter in time for the Christmas holidays. The problem is, he’s frequently at odds with his boss. He and Emma O’Connell approach everything differently. Yet he finds her intriguing, and Bluestone River festivities keep pushing them together—often enough that two people at odds could find themselves evenly matched in love!

(Affiliate links included.)

Other Books in the Series

A Family for Jason
(Back to Bluestone River #1)
By Virginia McCullough
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She’s not home for keeps

Unless he proves first love is forever

Bluestone River is a minefield of memories for Mike Abbot—all involving Ruby Driscoll. Twenty years after scandal divided them, they’re both back in their hometown. Ruby’s visit is strictly temporary. But as she uses her trauma expertise to help his vulnerable son, Mike faces what his heart has always known. Ruby’s still his one and only. This time, can he convince her to stay?

About the Author

Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia McCullough has been lucky enough to develop her writing career in many locations, including the coast of Maine, the mountains of North Carolina, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and currently, Northeast Wisconsin. She started her career in nonfiction, first writing articles and then books as a ghostwriter and coauthor. She’s written more than 100 books for physicians, business owners, professional speakers and many others with information to share or a story to tell.

Virginia’s books feature characters who could be your neighbors and friends. They come in all ages and struggle with everyday life issues in small-town environments that almost always include water—oceans, lakes, or rivers. The mother of two grown children, you’ll find Virginia with her nose a book, walking on trails or her neighborhood street, or she may be packing her bag to take off for her next adventure. And she’s always working on another story about hope, healing, and second chances.


Tour Giveaway


- 1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card and a $25 Etsy eGift Card
- Open internationally for those who are eligible
- Ends December 18, 2019

ENTER HERE
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The Dating Charade Grand Finale Blitz

Monday, December 16, 2019

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

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

Launch - Author Interview

What do you hope readers take with them after they’ve read it?

I hope readers come away from the story having laughed and smiled over the crazy antics (some that were plucked directly from my mothering life) but also learned more about the ups and downs of the foster system, some perhaps even finding themselves called to get involved in some way. That’s what happened to our family. After writing this book, we were led to start fostering ourselves and our house recently became officially approved.


"I LOVE THIS STORY! . . . The Dating Charade is fresh and fun. I was entertained and amused, and also moved by its incredible and unexpected intensity. Melissa Ferguson is a clever storyteller, infusing her writing with equal servings of wit and depth. . . . this heartwarming book has earned its spot on my Favorites of 2019 list."


He swung the locker closed. He needed to get it together.

In the stillness of his room he lay on his back, picked up his phone. It glowed in the otherwise dark space. Even as he typed the words in the app store and hit the download button, he felt the heat on his neck, the shame in even considering the terribly desperate option. He twisted his neck to double-check the lock on his room door. The mere act of looking into one of these sites depleted the level of his manhood. This was just testing the waters, he reminded himself as he swiftly created a username and logged in, scrolling down the page as dozens of faces popped up. He would just take a look around, see if this was a real possibility for expanding his connections . . .


"...a family drama story with both Cassie and Jett finding their way with the kids they’ve inherited. And, neither one knowing about the other’s situation with miscommunication occurring. . . . this was a delightful read. It was heart-warming and often heart-tugging."


How does this book stand out in this genre?

The Dating Charade is a bit different from the typical rom/com, particularly because while there are several laugh-out-loud moments, there’s also the story revolving around the children and the issues they have to face (abandonment, addictions, foster care). So, I guess I’d say, The Dating Charade is happiness and total happily-ever-after with a bow, but also carries a message about the power of family, however they came to be.

Among the Reads - Review

"Such a funny and heartwarming story!

I don’t always enjoy stories that combine humor and serious elements. A balance is needed to make this work. To not make the humor seem out of place in the midst of the tragedy or to make the more serious elements seem like a shock because they are so extreme. Melissa Ferguson crafted a story that had me laughing and pulling out the Kleenex! . . . If you enjoy laughing and romance, I highly recommend The Dating Charade!"


He rested his hand on the top of her car door and paused, the door separating their bodies but their faces suddenly not so far apart. “Till Wednesday, then.”

The exposed skin of his neck was red from the chill, and beneath his form-fitting jacket sat a pair of dark jeans that complemented his green, button-down oxford. Any drift of cologne—if he wore any—was overpowered by the thousands of pines surrounding them, infusing their world with shouts of Christmas.

Nat King Cole’s melody, “Almost Like Being in Love,” came over the outdoor speakers, drawing them toward one another like the red-velvet ribbon draped around the large Christmas trees in shop windows.

“Till Wednesday,” Cassie repeated softly.

Wishful Endings - Review

"Ferguson has been added to my must-read, auto-buy list of authors. I loved her writing style, the characters, and this story! So much emotion and heartbreak, but so much hope and love as well, making the story not too heavy, which is the perfect combination. Definitely recommended to both Christian and non-Christian contemporary romance readers."


Cassie’s face hurt from smiling. For ten minutes she drove with that smile—a slaphappy grin. When a car cut her off turning into Food City, she had nothing but a Merry-Christmas-to-all grin to give him. As she slowly passed the lights of an ambulance and two feuding citizens beside busted cars, her wide and vibrant smile met them, and with understandable misunderstanding both citizens threw a few choice words toward her before turning back on each other. But there was nothing to be done about it. The smile wasn’t going anywhere.

What if he was the one?


"From laugh out loud moments to more emotional and serious layers, The Dating Charade has appeal far beyond its cute cover and promising synopsis. . . . With just one novel to her name (she has a novella I’m wanting to read!), Melissa Ferguson has found her way onto my must-read author list. I eagerly look forward to whatever she pens next!"


"Okay, so first; WOW!!! I’ve loved books and I’ve laughed reading books but never so much as this one. This book? I have no words! It was messy, sappy, happy, and wonderfully one of the best books I have ever read!"


Jett whispered tersely, pointing to the thrown items. “Drew. Pick. Up. Your. Macaroni.”

Drew looked up at him while shoveling another handful—literally, as in hand without the spoon—of macaroni into his mouth. “Can’t. I’m a dinosaur. Dinosaurs don’t have hands.”

Jett’s uncle stifled a smile.

Jett himself stifled a look that would’ve slid that smile right off his uncle’s face. He set the fork down and stood. “Young man . . .”

Harlie's Books - Review

"This is a fun read but it does go deeper than you expect. Ms. Ferguson does an excellent job of balancing out the light with the dark. I just wish, in a way, that there was more romance. But hey, I love romance books. Do yourself a favor and pick up this gem of a book. You will thank me later."

Backing Books - Review

" loved this! Getting to see these characters interact, both adults and children, made this a great read. Cassie and Jett are two amazing people who really step up to the plate when it comes to taking care of the three children they have each suddenly found in their care. Taking care of children is never easy, and these two were thrust into that with three kids!"


So, this was how it was going to be. He’d thought that exact thought a thousand times since entering that long stretch of highway between his aunt’s house and his own. Every time, however, the blow lessened. At first it was like he had stood against a wall, and a truck had slammed into his body at seventy-five miles an hour. Then it felt like being strapped to a tree, an archer shooting an arrow into his chest. This morning it was a brass-knuckled punch to the face. Now, however, the hand giving the blow had softened, no more of a sting than if Sarah had slapped him on the cheek. He was getting used to the pain.

Could perhaps even acknowledge a part of him liked watching the two small heads huddled close together beside him, Dakota’s little hand in his. Could acknowledge he was getting used to seeing a stack of diapers next to a stack of movies.

It wasn’t as lonely.

Faithfully Bookish - Interview & Review

What is your next release and/or what are you working on now?

M: The Dating Charade released December third (woo!!!) and I’m working The Cul-de-sac War coming out fall of 2020. 🙂

"All the hearts on the cover of The Dating Charade are entirely fitting because this story has heart in a big way (and a healthy dose of hilarity, too… often at the expense of the main characters)! I laughed, I cried, I hugged my kids, I told one of my kids to read this book! . . . Melissa Ferg[u]son’s debut is a “nothing but net” three-point shot for the win! I highly recommend this story!"


"There are many hilarious situations, and I loved how the children keep Cassie and Jett on their toes. A heartwarming debut, with lighthearted humor, with a heartfelt core. Highly enjoyable read."


"The novel was a fun and cute read. I like that even though Cassie was jaded, she still tried to open up her heart to love. . . . a novel about two separate people adopting children and learning to care about others than themselves. Overall, I like the idea of family being people who you choose and not only the ones you are born into."

SPLASHES of Joy - Excerpt

Jett was a bona fide hero.

And she couldn’t let him go.

Pulling herself back to the present, Cassie shook out the pink tablecloth and threw it across the Ping-Pong table, shaking out her thoughts as she did so.

Meanwhile, Bree, with crossed arms, stared at her as though she’d watched every bit of Cassie’s playback reel. “Listen, if you don’t call him, I’m going to. I’ll marry him myself, Cassandra Everson.”

Uplifting Reads - Review

"I totally fell madly in love with this book and all of its characters. . . . And there are plenty of moments that will tug at your heartstrings. I admit that I cried both sad and happy tears while reading this book, as well as almost laughing to the point of tears. There's just so much love and greatness in this story. I'm so glad that I picked it up."


When you are not writing, what other hats do you wear? What do you do for fun?

When not writing, I’m a mother of twin 4-year-olds and a 2-year-old daughter, and they stay all day with me. I also teach Bible and Religion online primarily for my alma mater, King University.


"The Dating Charade is a super cute, fast paced and fun read. I knew that this was a debut novel when I started reading it but it certainly doesn't seem like a debut novel at all, it reads as a novel penned by a more experienced author, so kudos to Ms. Ferguson for that."

EmpowerMoms - Review

"This author did such a great job with the struggles and horrors of foster care, trying to be a single parent, and trying to just get thru the day-loving and hating every minute of it-being exhausted but grateful at the end of the day. As a parent, I could relate to so many of the struggles, laughs and tears. I loved reading this book!"

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

Star, as she was always so keenly aware, was nowhere to be seen.

For the past seven years she’d watched for the magic minute when the girls left their schools and made their way to the Haven. At the window, at 2:15 p.m. every day, she’d waited for them to come. Like the rumblings of thunder before a heavy storm, she and her staff would feel the anticipation, the shake, before the magic minute struck. The sudden rush at the computer to finish that report, to send that e-mail, to put the finishing touches on that flyer. The dash to the coffee station for a refill, because it very well could be the last calm moment for the rest of the day.

Often Cassie couldn’t stand it any longer and would step out the front door with her fresh mug, beckoned by the distant sound of the final school bell.


"Oh my goodness! Add this book to your TBR pile right now! If you love clean romance written from a Christian perspective, The Dating Charade is a book for you. I had to keep checking to make sure this was “for real” Melissa Ferguson’s first book, because it sure doesn’t read like a debut novel! Sure enough, it is! I’m already looking forward to her next book."

All excerpts from The Dating Charade by Melissa Ferguson. Used with the permission of the publisher, Thomas Nelson. Copyright © 2019 by Melissa Ferguson.


The Dating Charade
By Melissa Ferguson
Contemporary Romance, Christian
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 336 Pages
December 3rd 2019 by Thomas Nelson

Just when you think you’ve met your match . . . the charade begins.

Cassie Everson is an expert at escaping bad first dates. And, after years of meeting, greeting, and running from the men who try to woo her, Cassie is almost ready to retire her hopes for a husband—and children—altogether.

But fate has other plans, and Cassie’s online dating profile catches the eye of firefighter Jett Bentley. In Jett’s memory, Cassie Everson is the unreachable girl-of-legend from their high school days. Nervously, he messages her, setting off a chain of events that forces a reluctant Cassie back into the dating game.

No one is more surprised than Cassie when her first date with Jett is a knockout. But when they both go home and find three children dropped in their laps—each—they independently decide to do the right and mature thing: hide the kids from each other while sorting it all out. What could go wrong?

Melissa Ferguson’s hilarious and warmhearted debut reminds us that love can come in very small packages—and that sometimes our best-laid plans aren’t nearly as rewarding and fun as the surprises that come our way.

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Melissa Ferguson is an adjunct professor for Bible and religion at King University. She lives in the charming town of Bristol, Tennessee, with her husband, twin toddlers, and baby girl. She used to have hobbies like running and backpacking the Appalachian Trail outside her door. Now her hobbies include admiring the Appalachian Trail out her minivan window while singing "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" en route to the library.


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The Piper's Pursuit Grand Finale Blitz

Saturday, December 14, 2019

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

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

Launch - Author Interview

What was your motivation behind THE PIPER’S PURSUIT? Why did you want to write it?

I wanted to give Steffan his own story, as he was the rebellious, troubled bad boy in my last book, The Warrior Maiden, so he could redeem himself and get his happily ever after. I also wanted to write a retelling of the Pied Piper fairy tale. I’d loved that story even more after I visited Germany and took a day trip to Hamlin to see all the touristy fun they have with that story there—plays, everything you can imagine shaped into rats, a church glockenspiel depicting the story, and statues of the Pied Piper you can pose beside.


"Readers who enjoy Young Adult fairy tale retellings will probably like The Piper’s Pursuit by Melanie Dickerson. In keeping with its YA branding, the romance is very clean and the prose had that YA feel where it’s not deeply beautiful, but it’s entertaining. The Piper’s Pursuit was an easy, fast read for me that has a permanent home on my bookcase."

SPLASHES of Joy - Review

"It takes a lot for an author to take an old loved story and make it her own, and Melanie Dickerson is an expert at it. She breathes her own new life into these fairytales, and just maybe someone can find the Lord through her books. I highly recommend this book to anyone because I believe everyone can enjoy this one."


"As with all of Ms. Dickerson's fairytale recreations, Piper’s Pursuit is so interesting. It's also unique in that I've never read (or heard of) a retelling of the classic Pied Piper until now. . . . very enjoyable and enchanting."


Did Katerina dare to stay out hunting past dark? The sun was going down, casting long shadows as she skirted the forest on her right and an empty meadow on the left. At least the town gate was visible ahead.

She checked her crossbow, making sure the arrow was strung and ready. Her unruly brown hair was starting to come free from the leather tie taming it at the nape of her neck.

She picked up her pace as she passed a particularly dark section of the forest. She could easily imagine the giant wolf, or whatever the beast was that had killed so many, coming out of those dense trees and leaping at her. Would she have time to aim her crossbow before she fired? She would only get one shot.

simplysusan - Review

"I have always loved the Pied Piper of Hamlin story and she does wonders with this one! I was captivated from the very beginning and read it in one day. Highly recommended."


"This was such an interesting read! I personally never read the original story of the Pied Piper -- I only know a little bit about it and definitely plan to read it after having read this amazingly written re-imagining. Melanie Dickerson is such an awesome writer. The way she weaves in the word of God in her books is simply amazing."

Life is What It's Called - Interview & Review

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope readers will gain from this book?

Melanie Dickerson - I hope they understand that true love is kind, and true love protects. Also, that you can fight unfair situations and, with God’s help, you can win!

"The Piper's Pursuit is probably one of the best books out of the Hagenheim series. There was action, adventure, mystery, romance and more. . . . It's definitely worth a read."

Heidi Reads... - Review

"I really enjoyed seeing Steffan's path to redemption and getting to know Katerina- these characters really came to life . . . . There is plenty of suspense and action, and the romantic tension slowly grows as Steffan proves himself worthy of Katerina's trust. . . . Overall, an exciting and satisfying escape into this creative retelling of The Pied Piper.

Bookworm Mama - Review

"Melanie's books never cease to amaze me. Her ability to bring my favorite fairy tales to life in a beautiful and pure way just makes my heart soar. . . . This story is riddled with danger and adventure. From fighting the beast, fleeing Henneck and his guards, protecting children, and freeing a city...Kat and Steffan will take you on a journey as they pursue truth, freedom, and love."


His thoughts were suddenly redirected by a sight he’d never seen before—a herd of rats moving down the street, streaming into an alleyway up ahead. They roiled as they crawled and tumbled over each other, making faint screeching sounds, mingling with the collective clicking of their tiny claws on the cobblestones.

A man walking into the path of the rats suddenly cried out and started to back away. The rats reached him before he could escape, engulfing his feet as he cried out again, lifting one foot then the other. Steffan held his breath, too far away to help the man as he tried to walk on top of the rats. When he lifted one foot, a rat hung by its teeth from his ankle.


"The Piper's Pursuit was a wonderful story, filled with adventure, intrigue, and romance. Melanie Dickerson's distinct style of storytelling shines bright in this book. The rich historical and regional details leap off the page in vivid color, leaving the reading completely immersed in the 15th century storyworld. You will love characters and hate the villains. And, I'm sure, like me, will be unable to put down The Piper's Pursuit for even fire, famine, or flood."


He burst out the door behind Katerina. He pursued her down the cobblestone street, but not before he noted the hulking man pushing himself off the shop front he was leaning against and coming after them.

She was walking fast. He stayed just behind her. Perhaps he could wait until she was less angry before trying to convince her to trust him.

He knew a lot about anger. He’d spent the last year realizing how foolish his own anger had been. Now, when that anger rose up, instead of drinking too much to make it go away, he asked himself where it was coming from. Oftentimes he realized he was blaming someone else for something that was mostly his own fault. The person he was most angry at was himself.

Pause for Tales - Review

"The stakes are high with this one. With a beast... or two? . . . The descriptions are chilling and the mystery compelling. I hate the villain with a passion. This is definitely one of my favorite[s], if not my favorite Dickerson book I've read to date."

Wishful Endings - Review

"THE PIPER'S PURSUIT is a twist on the Pied Piper and the Prodigal Son with a strong heroine in the middle and a town to save. The characters are likable, the story entertaining, and the romance is sweet with an inspirational aspect as these characters seek to forgive others, themselves, and trust in God. Recommended to Christian historical romance fans."

Hallie Reads - Review

"This Pied-Piper reimagining (blended with the story of the Prodigal Son) allows the truth of Steffan’s character to shine—and brings him just the type of fierce female he needs. Katerina challenges him, even as she has her own lessons to learn, and together, they make a great team. I enjoyed rooting for them throughout the fairytale adventure."

Remembrancy - Review

". . . Dickerson weaves a story of redemption, learning to give yourself forgiveness and grace for past mistakes, and good conquering evil that is an entertaining addition to the entire Hagenheim series (and readers of the entire series will enjoy the connections to the other stories throughout The Piper’s Pursuit)."

Inspirational Reading Adventures - Review & Interview

"I was excited to read this one, and easily found myself captivated by Katerina’s story! . . . full of thrilling adventures full of action and mystery, the promise of danger, suspense, romance, redemption and love."

Q: What are your favorite genres to read and write? What are your favorite books?

A: My favorite genre is historical romance. It’s hard to imagine writing in any other genre. My favorite books are Pride and Prejudice, everything else by Jane Austen, Jane Eyre, A Vision of Light and the rest of that series by Judith Merkle Riley.

Faithfully Bookish - Interview

What is your next release and/or what are you working on now?

M: The Peasant’s Dream releases in July, and I just turned in the first round of edits on that. It is, alas, the 11th and final book in the Hagenheim series. But I’m also writing Court of Swans, the first book in a new series set in England in the reign of King Richard II in the late 1300’s. This first book is a retelling of the Wild Swans fairy tale. I’m excited about this new series!

"The Piper’s Pursuit’s action-packed plot kept me on the edge of my seat. Dickerson’s story shows that people aren’t always as they appear—for better or worse." - by teen guest reviewer, Faith

Among the Reads - Excerpt

Kat got a strange feeling, a prickling at the back of her neck, as if something were breathing just behind her. She turned, but only Steffan was there, slightly behind and to the side of her. Beyond him were dark, shadowy trees. The sky seemed to have become overcast, hiding the sun and making the forest even darker.

She continued forward. How had she never seen this path before? Or gone this way? It must be a very new path. A fallen tree lay up ahead. She vaguely remembered seeing it before, lying against a large boulder, half covered. But today there were other downed trees that looked to have been piled up around it, covering the boulder, if indeed her memory was correct.


"I have really really enjoyed this book. I'm so glad that I got to be on this tour. I don't know when I have enjoyed a book so much! But just wow! It's so exciting with twists and turns that it will leave you biting your finger nails and frantically turning the page to see what happens to Katerina and Steffan!! These two are incorrigible! They certainly make an adventure exciting!! . . . I highly recommend this book. Melanie Dickerson is an excellent author who can bring the old fairy tales back to life in ways one can never imagine."


"As always, Melanie Dickerson’s fairy tale retellings do not disappoint. . . . This story has all the delights of a fairy tale, and yet, there’s so much more to it. . . . If you are a lover of fairy tales, be sure and read this one!"

All excerpts from The Piper’s Pursuit by Melanie Dickerson. Used with the permission of the publisher, Thomas Nelson. Copyright © 2019 by Melanie Dickerson.

The Piper's Pursuit
(Hagenheim #10)
By Melanie Dickerson
YA Fairy Tale Retelling, Christian, Historical
Hardcover, Audiobook & ebook, 320 Pages
December 3rd 2019 by Thomas Nelson

A fairy-tale journey of intrigue and romance that reimagines the classic Pied Piper story.

A plague of rats. A giant beast outside the village walls. A host of missing children. And one young woman determined to save her people.

In 1424 Hamlin, Katerina faces threats from all sides. An outbreak of rats has overtaken the village, a mysterious beast is on a killing rampage of the village’s children, and Katerina’s evil stepfather is a dark presence inside the walls of her own home. Katerina is determined to hunt and kill the Beast of Hamlin herself before more lives are lost.

When Steffan, the handsome but brash duke’s son, comes to town seeking glory and reward, Katerina decides he might be the ally she’s been looking for—even though the only gentle thing about him seems to be the sweet music he plays on his pipe. But there’s more to Steffan than she suspects, and she finds herself drawn to him despite her misgivings.

Together Katerina and Steffan must stop the enemy from stealing the children of Hamlin. But their interference might create an even worse fate for the entire village.

Praise for The Piper’s Pursuit

The Piper’s Pursuit is a lovely tale of adventure, romance, and redemption. Kat and Steffan’s righteous quest will have you rooting them on until the very satisfying end!” —LORIE LANGDON, author of Olivia Twist and the DOON series

(Affiliate links included.)

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to an Amazon affiliate link.)

About the Author


Melanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author who combines her love for history, adventure, and romance. Her books have won a Christy Award, two Maggie Awards, The National Reader’s Choice Award, the Christian Retailing’s Best Award, the Book Buyer’s Best Award, the Golden Quill, and the Carol Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from The University of Alabama and has taught children and adults in the U.S., Germany, and Ukraine. Now she spends her time writing stories of love and adventure near Huntsville, Alabama.


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Kit and Elizabeth Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

Monday, December 9, 2019

Lady Elizabeth Spaulding’s world has fallen apart. Despite living her entire life to please her demanding parents, the Duke and Duchess of Marwood, she has little to show for it. After Elizabeth’s second failed betrothal, her father’s debts and appalling acts of retaliation force him to flee the country, consigning Elizabeth and her bitter mother to a life of poverty and exile. But Elizabeth’s fortunes change one day when an elderly acquaintance makes her an offer she can’t refuse.

Lady Walmsley, widowed and childless, is in need of a lady’s companion—and who better than the lovely Lady Elizabeth? Determined to rescue Elizabeth from her dreary life in the country, Lady Walmsley secures the help of Kit, the dashing Earl of Cantwell, in her quest. But the young woman they find is a ghost of the charming girl they once knew. Taken in by Lady Walmsley, and with Kit’s enthusiastic encouragement, Elizabeth finds herself pushed further and further from her empty solitude as she discovers the joy of truly living. Now, for the first time in her life, she must decide for herself who she is and if she deserves to be loved.

Review - I had high hopes for Kit and Elizabeth after reading Wager for a Wife and The Gentleman's Deception. After reading Kit and Elizabeth, I wish that there had been more editing done. There was one part where the reader was a part of the entire encounter of two characters and a conversation was mentioned later to another character that never took place. It would have been an easy fix for the author to just add a few lines. There were also parts of the story that would have left Elizabeth a ruined woman if anyone discovered who and where she had been. It seemed like she would have taken more care to guard her reputation. There were also times when she seemed to have called her cousins her Uncle and Aunt. Several of the scenes were enjoyable and entertaining. Lady Walmsley has some really great lines. I admired her determination and spirit. Lady Walmsley felt like the driving force in the novel in helping Elizabeth until Kit started to gain feeling for her. I also liked revisiting some of the characters from Tuft's previous books. I enjoyed seeing Elizabeth discovering herself and forming her own opinion on things. Her character blossoms as she determines her own path and goals. There were several memorable and well-thought out scenes. To learn more about Kit and Elizabeth, click here.

This is a spin-off from The Earl's Betrothal. The kindle version of  The Earl's Betrothal is on sale now for $2.99, click here to learn more.


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Please note that I received this book for free, however, this is my honest opinion. Please also note that there are affiliate links in this post.

Christmas Jars Blog Tour, Movie Review and Giveaway

Friday, December 6, 2019


Hope is an aspiring reporter who has had her fair share of tragedy in life. Abandoned at birth, she's grieving the recent death of her adopted mother when her apartment is burglarized of all her possessions. While reporting the burglary to the police, Hope discovers a jar full of money, labeled "Christmas Jar." Shocked and grateful for this act of kindness, Hope discovers that people all over her hometown of Columbus, Ohio, have been receiving Christmas Jars for years during times of need. The jars are always anonymous and always contain different amounts. In this heartwarming Christmas classic, Hope goes undercover to discover the secret behind the Christmas jars, putting into motion a series of events that will change her life, and her community, forever.



Review - This was a sweet Christmas movie. I enjoyed watching the characters and learning the meaning behind the Christmas jars. I liked the idea of spreading anonymous kindness to those who may need it most. If you enjoy watching Hallmark Christmas movies then you will really enjoy this movie. The message was sweet, the pacing was just right and it's something that can easily be watched each Christmas season. It's a clean movie. Some of the complex drama may be too much for young children, but older kids may enjoy watching this movie. I was impressed with the quality of the film. Christmas Jars is available to purchase at Deseret Book and Amazon.


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Please note that I received a free copy of this film, however, this is my honest opinion. Please note that the giveaway is managed by the sponsor. This post contains Amazon affiliate links.

The Piper's Pursuit Blog Tour

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

The Piper's Pursuit
(Hagenheim #10)
By Melanie Dickerson
YA Fairy Tale Retelling, Christian, Historical
Hardcover, Audiobook & ebook, 320 Pages
December 3rd 2019 by Thomas Nelson

A fairy-tale journey of intrigue and romance that reimagines the classic Pied Piper story.

A plague of rats. A giant beast outside the village walls. A host of missing children. And one young woman determined to save her people.

In 1424 Hamlin, Katerina faces threats from all sides. An outbreak of rats has overtaken the village, a mysterious beast is on a killing rampage of the village’s children, and Katerina’s evil stepfather is a dark presence inside the walls of her own home. Katerina is determined to hunt and kill the Beast of Hamlin herself before more lives are lost.

When Steffan, the handsome but brash duke’s son, comes to town seeking glory and reward, Katerina decides he might be the ally she’s been looking for—even though the only gentle thing about him seems to be the sweet music he plays on his pipe. But there’s more to Steffan than she suspects, and she finds herself drawn to him despite her misgivings.

Together Katerina and Steffan must stop the enemy from stealing the children of Hamlin. But their interference might create an even worse fate for the entire village.

Praise for The Piper’s Pursuit

The Piper’s Pursuit is a lovely tale of adventure, romance, and redemption. Kat and Steffan’s righteous quest will have you rooting them on until the very satisfying end!” —LORIE LANGDON, author of Olivia Twist and the DOON series

(Affiliate links included.)

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to an Amazon affiliate link.)

About the Author


Melanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author who combines her love for history, adventure, and romance. Her books have won a Christy Award, two Maggie Awards, The National Reader’s Choice Award, the Christian Retailing’s Best Award, the Book Buyer’s Best Award, the Golden Quill, and the Carol Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from The University of Alabama and has taught children and adults in the U.S., Germany, and Ukraine. Now she spends her time writing stories of love and adventure near Huntsville, Alabama.



Interview
Life Is What It's Called - How did you choose which fairy tales you would use for your stories?
Melanie Dickerson - I thought about the characters I wanted to write the story about, thought about the story elements that I already had in mind, and tried to think of the fairy tale that would
naturally work for those characters and that story.


Life Is What It's Called - Is this the last of this series?

Melanie Dickerson - No, there is one more book, releasing in July, The Peasant’s Dream.

Life Is What It's Called - What are some of your next projects?
Melanie Dickerson -I’m working on a new series. The first book is Court of Swans, a retelling of the Wild Swans fairy tale, set in England in the reign of Richard II in the late 1300s.

Life Is What It's Called - What has inspired you to write this story (besides the fairy tale)?
Melanie Dickerson -I was also inspired by a true event that happened in the 1700s in France. If you google the Beast of Gevaudan you will learn about a beast, probably a very large dog or wolf,
that killed many people over the course of a couple of years before it was finally killed.
There were a couple of women who successfully fought off the creature when it
attacked them, and that inspired my heroine.


Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope readers will gain from this book?
Melanie Dickerson - I hope they understand that true love is kind, and true love protects. Also, that you can fight unfair situations and, with God’s help, you can win!

Life Is What It's Called - What are your favorite authors to read?
I love Lysa Terkeurst’s and Beth Moore’s books and Bible studies. Honestly? I don’t read much
fiction at all. I know that sounds terrible, but it’s true. I don’t even remember the last novel I
read. But I have read Jane Austen’s books many times each, and I used to read all of Ruth Axtell
Morren’s books and Mary Connealy’s. I know some people are shaking their heads at me right
now!


Review
I enjoy reading the Hagenheim series by Melanie Dickerson. Readers can easily enjoy the stories as a whole series or as a stand alone. The novels are medieval German tales with a fairy tale twist. The Piper's Pursuit is probably one of the best books out of the Hagenheim series. There was action, adventure, mystery, romance and more. It had a little bit of everything. I read this book pretty quickly. I found that it was hard to put down. I did wish that there was a little more detailed description in the story, but other than that it was quite the page turner. I also loved the twist on the famous Pied Piper story. I thought it was very clever in how it was written.  It's definitely worth a read. To learn more about The Piper's Pursuit, click here.


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Please note that I received this book for free, however, this is my honest opinion. Please also note that there are affiliate links in this post.

A Child's Gift Book Blitz

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

A Child's Gift
(Texas Rebels #8)
By Linda Warren
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
December 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Will an abandoned child bring them together?

Or tear them apart?

Cowboy Jericho Johnson lives a good life working on the Rebel family’s Texas ranch. All he’s missing is a wonderful woman like Anamarie Wiznowski. But Rico’s troubled past and Ana’s disapproving family conspire against them. When Rico is named guardian to a four-year-old boy, he asks Ana for help. And suddenly, he’s falling faster than Christmas snow…for Ana, sweet little Dusty and life as a family man!

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Excerpt

“So you’ll be busy.”

“Not so busy that I can’t take care of Dusty.” Why wasn’t he asking her to marry him? They loved each other, didn’t they?

“Well, then.” He placed his hands on his knees. “I guess we should get married. We can go to the courthouse or Wyatt can marry us.”

In all the years she dreamed about someone asking her to marry them, it wasn’t like this. She stood up, anger in every part of her body. “I’m not getting married at the courthouse or by Wyatt Carson.”

“Why not?” He was genuinely puzzled and that eased the anger inside her.

“Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of walking down the aisle on my dad’s arm in a white dress. My sisters and I used to play Bride. We’d walk down the hall with a pillowcase over our heads holding some fake flowers of our mom’s. Sometimes Bubba played dad. I want to get married in the church.”

He frowned. “Anamarie, I’m not into big weddings.”

“It would be just my family and your family.”

“I don’t have a family.”

“Excuse me. Who are the Rebels?”

“They’re my employers.”

He was putting up walls and she had to go at this another way. “Where do you spend your holidays?”

“At Miss Kate’s and on Christmas morning I go to Egan’s first and then to Miss Kate’s.”

“Really? I don’t know many people who go to their employers’ house on Christmas.”

“They’re good to me, but we’re not blood.”

“And that matters to you? Because I don’t see it mattering to the Rebels.” Why was it so hard for him to admit that he was a part of the Rebel family? The walls he had built around himself were getting thicker and she didn’t know if she could get through to make him understand how much she loved him and how much the Rebels loved him.

She sat on the coffee table again, giving him a few minutes. As the clock ticked away, he said nothing. She finally asked, “What are you going to do about Dusty?”

“I can’t let him go into foster care.”

“Then do something about it.”

After a moment, he said, “Okay, I guess we’ll do the wedding thing you want.” His voice held a tinge of resentment that didn’t sit well with her.

She got up from the coffee table. “I’m going to pack my things, but I won’t leave until the morning. I want to say goodbye to Dusty.”

“What? Wait?” As she walked by his chair, he caught her hand. “What are you talking about?”

“I don’t want to feel as if I’m forcing you into marriage. It has to be something you want, too, and clearly you don’t.”

“I’m just trying to get this right.”

“Well, you got it wrong.” She took a deep breath. “Rico, when a man proposes to a woman, she wants to hear more than we should get married. I need more if I’m going to spend my life with you. And you seem very hesitant to offer that.”

“What do you mean? You know I love you. I’ve been crazy about you for years.”

The magic words would have been wonderful if he hadn’t tacked on you know.

She placed her hand over her heart. “I love you, Rico, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”

He got to his feet, still holding her hand. “The only person I’ve ever loved is my great-grandmother and it’s hard for me to recognize those emotions after everything that has happened to me. But I know that I love you. I love you more than I’ve loved anyone in my whole life. Will you marry me and help me make a home for Dusty?”

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to an Amazon affiliate link.)

About the Author


Two time Rita® nominated author Linda Warren has written forty-five books for Harlequin. A native Texan, she’s a member of Romance Writers of America and the West Houston Chapter. Drawing upon her years of growing up on a ranch, she writes about some of her favorite things: Western-style romance, cowboys and country life. She married her high school sweetheart and they live on a lake in central Texas. He fishes and she writes. Works perfect. You can find out more about Linda at http://www.LindaWarren.net.


Blitz Giveaway


One winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card and an ebook of A Child's Gift
Three winners will each receive an ebook of A Child's Gift
Open internationally
Ends December 6, 2019

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December Giveaways (low to moderate entry)

Monday, December 2, 2019

I like entering low to moderate entry giveaways and I share each month some of the blog or social media giveaways I've entered, thought someone else might be interested in entering or that have been submitted to me through bloggers. Check back often throughout the month to see if I have posted more giveaways. If you are hosting a family-friendly giveaway on your blog and would like to see it listed here, please contact me (via email). If you have a won a giveaway that I posted, please leave a comment and share that you won.

$100 Target Gift Card (ends 12.2.19)
Nintendo Switch Super Lucky's Tale (ends 12.3.19)
$50 Loft Gift Card (ends 12.4.19)
Nintendo Switch Super Lucky's Tale (ends 12.5.19)
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Rubio's Taco Tidings Box (ends 12.18.19)
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