Romance – Madi's Musings

IRON Launch Tour: Introduction + Behind the Scenes

September 26, 2022October 1, 202216 Comments

Welcome to “IRON’s” launch tour. I am the exhausted author/host, Madisyn Carlin.

WHAT IS IRON?

IRON isn’t:

1) A general market “clean” book.

2) A magical fairy tale retelling.

3) Light and fluffy.

4) YA (Young Adult).

IRON is:

1) A Christian Fantasy.

2) Nonmagical.

3) Deep. Different from DECEIVED and not near as intense as SR, but still deep because it deals with human trafficking.

4) NA (New Adult).

5) A story with three (3) POVs in the organized, structural I always follow.

IRON INFORMATION

Genre: Christian Fantasy/Fairytale Retelling

Blurb:

Enforcing justice comes with a price.

Detective Redwyn “Red” Deathan will stop at nothing to uncover those behind the ruthless kidnappings of multiple children. But things are not as they seem, and Red’s efforts are thwarted at every turn. With each discovery the danger grows, putting Red and the lives of those she cares about at risk. Can she reveal the mastermind’s identity before she herself becomes a target?

Goodreads:

Purchase Ebook

Inspiration Board

Paperback coming soon.

AUTHOR BIO

Madisyn Carlin is a Christian, homeschool graduate, blogger, voracious bookdragon, and author. When not spending time with her family or trekking through the mountains, she weaves tales of redemption, faith, and action.

Want to connect? https://linktr.ee/madisyncarlin

BEHIND THE SCENES

Why “IRON” for the title?

I originally chose IRON due to the original blurb, but since that ended up not making the cut, I used it to signify an extremely pivotal moment in the book–specifically for Red. You’ll have to read the book to find out which scene. 😉

Why the cover?

I received some comments (and saw some) about how the cover did not look like a fairytale retelling. I concur with that. It doesn’t. But it does fit IRON.

The cover was originally a filler, but Mom saw it, asked if it was the actual cover, and that’s how this book received the cover it has.

Why a Cinderella Retelling?

When the first seeds of IRON were planted, I had Redwyn investigating different fairytales, but from the moment I put fingers to the keyboard, the story took a different direction. I found myself writing a Cinderella retelling, but it also went beyond a fairytale retelling. Serious themes were incorporated, new characters were introduced without my planning them (Ward being one of them), and the book took a completely different direction.

IRON went from being a novella to a word count of almost 100,000.

I wanted IRON to be short, around 40,000. Well, 40,000 came and went, and I upped the word count to 65,000. The same thing happened to 75,000 and 85,000. By the time I wrote, The End, IRON was at 97,500 words.

IRON wasn’t supposed to be self-published.

I began IRON in 2019 with the intent to submit it. That did not happen, and only when I first collaborated with a fellow writer in early 2022 did I contemplate returning to IRON. It went from being a half-baked idea to being a long, long book.

IRON was my first fairytale retelling attempt.

My second attempt is the first book in a side-series to The Redwyn Chronicles. If you read the book and thought there were only four kingdoms and one continent, think again. This side-series has a Celtic, Viking-ish feel, and I’ll give you a hint: the first book is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, complete with wyrms, missing legs, and nefarious siblings.

IRON GIVEAWAY

If you like thick paperback books, you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity to win IRON .

Giveaway Information

First Place Prize:

An Autographed Paperback if winner is U.S. resident. If the winner is an international resident, then they win an ebook.

Second Place Prize:

An Ebook in the reader’s choice of Mobi or epub.

For an extra entry point, comment and tell me your favorite fairytale and/or fairytale retelling!

Enter Giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, September 26

Madisyn Carlin | Introduction + Behind the Scenes

Vanessa Hall | Book Spotlight + Review

Quilling in the Pines | Book Review

Saraina | Character Interview + Book Spotlight

Tuesday, September 27

Kristina Hall | Book Review

Tower in the Plains | Book Spotlight

Wednesday, September 28

Joy C. Woodbury | Book Review

Allie Jo Anderson | Character Interview

The Bookdragon’s Alcove | Book Spotlight

Thursday, September 29

Neath the Hackberry Reading Club | Book Review

Quilling in the Pines | Author Interview

Christine Smith | Book Spotlight

Friday, September 30

Saraina | Book Review

Rainy Day Writer | Character Interview + Book Spotlight

Of Blades and Thorns | Book Spotlight

Saturday, October 1

Madisyn Carlin | Meet the Characters + Wrapup

Old-fashioned Book Love | Book Review

Penny Zeller | Saturday Spotlight

Shattered Reflection + Broken Mirrors Cover Reveals

September 21, 2022September 21, 202225 Comments

I’m excited to announce Shattered Reflection is part of the Broken Mirrors retelling collection, which releases this December.

What is Broken Mirrors?

The Broken Mirrors are six retellings of The Snow Queen by six different authors. You don’t want to miss any of them!

The blog tour runs December 19-24. We’d love for you to join us in celebrating the release of these frosty retellings. To learn more about the Broken Mirrors ARC options and the blog tour, go here. (Details are being added as you read this, so if there aren’t any up when you visit the page, check back later.)

SR1 is the monster of the group, meaning it’s significantly longer than the others. What else can you expect, though? The Snow Queen is a long, long story and SR1 has five povs.

*Please consider promoting more than just the one person you came here for. The point of a multi-author release is getting as many eyes on as many books as possible.

It’s Prize Time

Yep. There are some fantastic prizes up for grabs.

How to Enter (copied directly from Kendra Ardnek):

Now, the giveaway – like last year, we have two prizes for y’all to earn, two different ways, this next week only!

Method 1: Preorder all six books and email your receipt to me at Kendraeardnek@gmail.com. This week only, they are all just 99 cents each, so grab ’em now!

Method 2: Share all six covers on your blog, Instagram, tumblr, newsletter, Facebook, etc, and send me a link to the same address. (though, if you’re sharing on Instagram stories, make sure I am tagged @fairytalearista and message me telling me that it’s an entry, before emailing me.) I have a folder of graphics and metadata for you to use – and more graphics will be added soon, I just haven’t finished them yet. https://1drv.ms/u/s!AjAmS-99p507gbNiJfX5DafQNiP8ag?e=FOUUPi

Prizes:

For doing one task: A PDF with a first peek at the first chapter of all six Broken Mirrors.

For doing both tasks: A free full ebook from one of our backlogs. The list you can choose from will be compiled shortly. You will still receive the first chapters as well.

The main page, blog tour sign-up, and ARC request form, will be compiled and added shortly.

Blogger’s note: IRON is included in this!

SHATTERED REFLECTION

To be honest, I never expected this book to be fully written, let alone published. I wrote the first 18,000 words up camping, surrounded by squirrels, gray jays, lodgepole pines, allergies, and the fresh, clean mountain air. Then I tabled the story until, in January 2022, a random act of recklessness convinced me to try another go.

I ended up putting down 113,000 words in three months.

SR1 also landed me promises of death threats from beta readers (I have no idea why).

It releases December 21st.

The Official Blurb:

Can hope be found for four shattered souls?

Princess Nordica Icerri’s crown will be purchased with blood—her blood. Now the sole heir to the throne, she is determined to be the queen the Snowlands deserve, but that comes with a price: a numbed heart and soul. Only when she meets kidnapped physician Loren Alocer does Nordica allow herself to hope she can become queen without completely losing herself. But not everyone wants what’s best for the Snowlands, and Nordica’s upcoming rule is compromised at every turn. Can the criminal physician—and his faith—thaw Nordica’s heart, or is she destined to be the heartless queen she is being forced to become?

War shattered not only Breac Finson’s heart, but his faith as well. Tired of fighting, Breac only wants to be left alone, but his efforts are for naught when a friend calls in a favor. He soon finds himself in an unexpected alliance with Layree Alocer, a woman determined to find her wrongfully-kidnapped brother at all costs. Can a broken soldier help right a wrong—and find his faith again in the process?

Sides must be chosen and loyalties will be tested as a new war approaches. Can broken lives be mended in time to help save the Snowlands, or is evil already too deeply embedded?

Ebook Preorder sale: (Because I’ll be upping this little monstrosity’s price after release day.)

Add on Goodreads:

If you can’t participate in the blog tour, but would still like to ARC read SR1, go here: SR1 ARC Form. There is no rush at all, but if your review comes in before November 10th, I can put it in a “What Readers are Saying” page.

Fun Facts about SR1:

This was the first concept/aesthetic board I made.

Some things have changed (singular reflection, no wolf, and the tagline are different), but the concept remains. Betas will know who the characters are. (To see the cast of characters, go here.)

First Line:

For three years he’d worked to lock away the past, to keep it hidden and out of sight, thought, and memory.

Random Line:

Tandri gasped. “I am a perfect influence, thank you.”

Random Quote:

“Look, kid. I’m just an honest swindler trying to make a living.”

Notable Typos:

“A book to to the ribs.”

And calling my character “Mucus” instead of “Marcus”. (My poor, sweet boy. He didn’t deserve that.)

Why am I calling it “SR1”?

Because I’m weird and every book title in this series has the initials of S. R. . Thus, SR1.

This books is nothing like Frozen. I despise that movie.

This post does not adequately convey my excitement. I have waited so long for this day and I love this story dearly.

Have you ever read a fairy tale retelling? Which ones? Which was your favorite? Have you ever read the original Snow Queen story? If not, you should. It’s one of my favorites. What about SR1? Are you looking forward to it? What about the other books in the tour? Which ones catch your eye?

Book Review: McKenzie

September 17, 20223 Comments

“Desperate times call for desperate measures.”

Author: Penny Zeller

Series: Montana Skies, Book One

Publisher: Whitaker

“Desperate times call for desperate measures” is the reasoning that prompts McKenzie Worthington, a young lady of Boston’s high society, to respond to an ad for a mail-order bride for a man in the Montana Territory. McKenzie is desperate, after all, to save her beloved younger sister, Kaydie, from her evil, abusive husband, who robs banks for a living. And so, it is with reckless determination that McKenzie runs away from the comforts of home and hearth to head West and meet her new husband-whom she’ll divorce, of course, after she rescues her sister.

Desperate times call for desperate measures is the reasoning that also prompts Zachary Sawyer, a rugged rancher after God’s own heart, to post an ad for a mail-order bride in various newspapers across the country. Managing a ranch and caring for his adoptive son, Davey, has become more than one man can handle alone, and Zach prays for God to send him a wife with whom to build a life and share his dreams.

When McKenzie arrives at Zach’s ranch, she immediately puts her plan in motion, searching for her sister and doing all she can to keep her new husband from forming an attachment. But his persistent kindness and significant self-sacrifices begin to change her heart-and ruin her plans. God has a way of working things out to the good of those who love Him, though, as McKenzie and Kaydie will soon see.

If you enjoyed reading McKenzie, you won’t want to miss the sequels in this series: Kaydie and Hailee.

Rating:

5 Stars

Review:

What lengths would you go to to save your sister?

That is the question McKenzie Worthington must ask herself when she learns of her sister’s dire predicament. The book’s tagline is, “Desperate times call for desperate measures,” and that is exactly what McKenzie does–enacts a desperate plan to save her beloved younger sister.

This is such a sweet, gentle story. Zeller does well crafting a variety of characters, from snotty siblings, loyal ranch hands and mentors, and a wonderful hero and adorable child. Of the main characters, I think Zach was my favorite, but just barely. Of the secondary, how can I choose? I want to snuggle Davey and Asa and Rosemary are gold. And Lucille. Oh, boy. Lucille is one of those supporting characters who provides oodles of humor, and her antics kept me laughing. She means well, but that doesn’t mean everything always goes according to plan.

McKenzie is chock full of good lessons, including honesty, love, the importance of true faith, and loyalty. I’ve seen some of the reviews complaining about McKenzie being selfish and spoiled, and yes, she was to certain degrees at first, but going after your sibling the way she did is the opposite of selfish. And Zeller really did craft a well-rounded character, and used McKenzie’s flaws to grow her.

I am quite looking forward to the next book and Jonah and Kaydie’s story.

In short, McKenzie is a sweet romance that I can easily envision being made into a movie similar to Love Comes Softly. Fans of Christian historical romance should add this book to their TBR.

Forgotten Memories Blog Tour: Book Review

September 6, 2022September 6, 202214 Comments

A beautiful story with heartfelt themes and tear-jerking scenes.

Graphics–**not the cover**–designed by Mountain Peak Edits & Design.

Today I am participating in the Forgotten Memories blog tour by reviewing the book. (Which you need to add to your TBR.)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics. Today, Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a fitness instructor.

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, cycling, gardening, and playing volleyball.

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website www.pennyzeller.com and her blog, random thoughts from a day in the life of a wife, mom, and author, at www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com.

Social Media Links:

Website: www.pennyzeller.com

Blog: www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PennyZeller

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennyzeller/

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/penny-zeller

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/zellerpenny/

MeWe: https://mewe.com/i/pennyzeller

Amazon Author Central: https://www.amazon.com/author/pennyzeller

Newsletter Sign up: https://mailchi.mp/8c1dae400a24/penny-zeller

ABOUT THE BOOK

Some memories are best forgotten…

The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile.

Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk?

Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?

Add Forgotten Memories to your Goodreads TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61166004-forgotten-memories?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=JxLU3k3mt3&rank=2

Where to Purchase Forgotten Memories

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/forgotten-memories-penny-zeller/1142115335?ean=9780976083689

RATING:

6 out of 5 Stars

REVIEW:

I’ve read all of Zeller’s books, and while I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every single one, Forgotten Memories is thus far my favorite. Set in 1880s Wyoming, Forgotten Memories incorporates faith, humor, sweet romance, redemption, and a superb premise.

The setting is well-described. The reader is swept into the small Wyoming towns and the rustic landscape. I could easily imagine myself there as I read the story.

The plot, as aforementioned, is superb. Filled with twists, turns, hope, pain, and a strong faith element, the reader is definitely treated to a broad range of emotions–which this book is full of. If you don’t tear up, or are at least a little bit touched by some of the scenes…you’ve a cold heart. There is no way someone with a normal heart can’t be moved. I rarely tear up while reading, but I did while reading this book. I also really liked how the book began, as it provided insight that is crucial to the rest of the plot. The flashbacks also were incorporated well. The romance is sweet and gentle, written at just the right pace.

The characters are wonderful. Annie aspires to be a teacher, and her desire to help others and her good relationship with her family is heartwarming. Sadie is adorable. Caleb…who wouldn’t love Caleb? He deserves all the hugs he can get. He was my favorite character, though by a slim margin, because I did adore Annie as well. Their emotions were so realistically portrayed. No one is perfect and their struggles are portrayed quite realistically.

The secondary characters are a delight as well. Charlotte and John Mark need their own stories. Their relationship was perfectly portrayed, and I could empathize mostly with Charlotte, though I felt for John Mark too at times. Tobias needs his own story too, the little twerp. I was especially fond of Charlotte’s vocabulary and how she learned several of them through reading (doesn’t that just sound like a true bibliophile?). There were just so many fun secondary characters, too many for me to list.

What really sets Forgotten Memories apart is the faith aspect. Beautiful, rich, and so deeply woven into the story. Zeller paints a splendid story of forgiveness, God’s mercy, and redemption.

I also appreciated the adoption theme, which has a double meaning in this book.

I’ve read many historical romances, and Forgotten Memories is by far one of the best I’ve read. It is a beautiful story with heartfelt themes and tear-jerking scenes. Do yourself a favor and add this book to your TBR.

*I received an eARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

I’ve seen Zeller often compared to Janette Oak and Little House on the Prairie, so if you like those, you’ll like Forgotten Memories.

Lookee at that. Part of my review made it onto the “What Readers are Saying”!

BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE

TUESDAY, 9/6

Penny Zeller | Is Forgotten Memories the Book for You?

Penny McGinnis | Book Spotlight

Charity’s Book Escapes | Book Review (Instagram)

Madi’s Musings | Book Review

Julie Arduini | Guest Post

Lee-Ann Brodeur | Book Spotlight

WEDNESDAY, 9/7

Vanessa Hall | Book Review

Saraina | Author Interview

Christian Books and Coffee | Book Spotlight (Instagram)

Quilling in the Pines |Book Review

Suite T | Guest Post

Mary | Review (Facebook)

THURSDAY, 9/8

Penny Zeller | Quotes + Meet the Characters

Cover Lover | Book Spotlight

Christian Books and Coffee | Author Interview (Instagram)

Reading and Flowers | Book Spotlight (Instagram)

t.r.b.e. | Book Review

Chat with Vera | Book Review, Giveaway

Donna Schlachter | Guest Post

Lena Nelson Dooley | Author Interview, Giveaway

FRIDAY, 9/9

Saraina | Book Spotlight

Cover Lover | Book Review

Christian Books and Coffee | Book Review (Instagram)

2friendstalkbooks | Book Spotlight (Instagram)

Abbigail | Book Review (Facebook)

Penny McGinnis | Book Review

Cindy’s Book Corner | Book Review*

SATURDAY, 9/10

Penny Zeller | Tour Wrap-up (Which Character are You, etc.)

Kristina Hall | Book Review

Madi’s Musings | Book Spotlight

2friendstalkbooks | Book Review

Patti’s Porch | Guest Post, Giveaway

The Underground Railroad Brides Collection

May 26, 20202 Comments

Title: The Underground Railroad Brides Collection: 9 Couples Navigate the Road to Freedom Before the Civil War

Authors: Barbara Tifft Blakey, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Cecelia Dowdy, Patty Smith Hall, Terri J. Haynes, Debby Lee, Darlene Panzera, Penny Zeller

Genre: Historical Christian Romance

Trailer:

Length: 448 pages

Publisher: Barbour

Available at: Wherever books are sold

Summary:

Love Guides Hearts Along the Road to Freedom

Nine historical couples walk the road to love even as they dare to escape and help others break free from the injustices of slavery between 1849 and 1860. From Southern states of Georgia and South Carolina to above the Mason-Dixon Line in Indiana and Pennsylvania, they work within the network known as the Underground Railroad.

Emma Underground by Barbara Tifft Blakey
Follow the Christmas Star by Ramona K. Cecil
Under the Sails of Love by Lynn A. Coleman
The Bakery Bride by Cecelia Dowdy
Place of Refuge by Patty Smith Hall
Free to Love by Terri J. Haynes
The Winter Quilt by Debby Lee
The Song of Hearts Set Free by Darlene Panzera
Freedom’s Flight by Penny Zeller

There is hope for the future when people come together to fight evil, and when men and women find love in the midst of great challenges. And through it all, faith is the key to victory in these stories from nine inspiring Christian authors.

Emma Underground by Barbara Tifft Blakey
Schenectady, New York—1851
Emma Trebor desires to reconcile with her husband, but he is hiding something from her. How could she know the investigator she hires is secretly a bounty hunter and her husband is his target?

Follow the Christmas Star by Ramona K. Cecil
Madison, Indiana—1850
Deeply involved in the abolitionist movement, Edith Applegate struggles to reconcile her desire to help bring people out of bondage and her growing affection for a former Southern slave owner.

Under the Sails of Love by Lynn A. Coleman
Savannah, Georgia—1860
Charlotte Kimbrel, a Southern Belle, has been smuggling slaves. Captain Zachery Browne’s ship sails slaves to freedom. Hostilities between the states are developing. Will Charlotte successfully travel the Underground Railroad by sea?

The Bakery Bride by Cecelia Dowdy
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—1859
Grieving over her beau’s unjustified death, Ruth—a recently manumitted slave who is illiterate—assists her upper-class boss as an abolitionist. Can she heal from the pain of slavery and learn to love again?

Place of Refuge by Patty Smith Hall
Abbeville, South Carolina—1857
Underground conductor Hudson Wallace is surprised when Jorgine Emerson asks him to transport her slaves to freedom, but is it a trap? Can Jorgine’s deep conviction win Hudson over?

Free to Love by Terri J. Haynes
East Towson, Maryland—1850
Winnie is hiding a secret—Hiram, a fugitive. Their lives cross at an Underground Railroad station. Can they overcome danger and find freedom in love?

The Winter Quilt by Debby Lee
Newport, Indiana—1840
Relocated to an unfamiliar town, Coral Martin yearns for stability. Carpenter Josiah Williamson helps her find meaning working on the Underground Railroad. Will their love survive when forces threaten to tear them apart forever?

The Song of Hearts Set Free by Darlene Panzera
Jersey City, New Jersey—1851
Budding abolitionist, Annie Morrison, discovers the man she’s fallen in love with may be a slave catcher in disguise.

Freedom’s Flight by Penny Zeller
Tennessee—1850s
When she discovers the handsome Reverend Matthias Sorenson assisting runaway slaves, can Annalise Van Houten convince him to allow her to help? Or will mistrust prove fatal for all involved?

Positive Elements:

Characters stand up and fight for those who cannot fight for themselves; the importance of life, forgiveness, and trust is shown. Characters’ faith grows.

Negative Elements:

None.

Spiritual Elements:

God’s love, mercy, and compassion are reflected on; Bible verses are read and quoted; characters pray.

Violence:

Arson is committed; slaves and characters are shot; it is mentioned that slaves are whipped; there’s a rumor that one was skinned alive; slaves are hunted; characters are treated roughly.

Other:

Characters lie to protect others; characters kiss; it is speculated that a character’s fiance has illegitimate children; people steal.

Rating:

An overall 5 Stars.

Epilogue:

I love history, and was thrilled to get my hands on The Underground Railroad Brides Collection. These stories are sweet and heartfelt, and do well in capturing the care, concern, courage, and determination those involved in the Underground Railroad exhibited. This is a wonderful collection, with my second favorite being Follow the Christmas Star by Ramona Cecil, and my favorite being Freedom’s Flight by Penny Zeller. Freedom’s Flight is an action-packed story filled with faith, danger, and the importance of trust. Definitely a must-read!

The King’s Scrolls

December 20, 20191 Comment

Title: The King’s Scrolls (Ilyon Chronicles, Volume Two)

Author: Jaye L. Knight

Genre: Fantasy

Age: Marketed as NA (New Adult), but can be read by teens thirteen and up

Length: 397 pages

Publisher: Living Sword Publishing

Available at: Amazon and from the author

Summary:

Following the harrowing events that brought them to Landale Forest, Jace and Kyrin have settled comfortably into their new lives and the mission of protecting those under the emperor’s persecution. The fast approach of winter brings with it the anticipation of a quiet few months ahead. That is until the arrival of four mysterious, dragon-riding cretes who seek aid in a mission of great importance–not only to their own people, but to all followers of Elôm.

Hidden in the vast mining valley north of Valcré, a faithful crete has spent years sharing his knowledge with the destitute miners and their families and is known to possess what may be Arcacia’s last surviving copies of the King’s Scrolls–the Word of Elôm. Joining the cretes, those in Landale must find the crete teacher and bring him to safety, but it is a race against time. Should Daican’s men find him first, execution and the destruction of the Scrolls is certain.

When disaster strikes, all seems lost. Could Elôm have a plan even in the enemy’s triumph?

Positive Elements:

Characters face their fears; a character prays for those about to execute him; familial loyalty is shown as important; characters rely on their faith to give them courage.

Negative Elements:

One usage of “hell”.

Spiritual Elements:

Characters pray; Scripture is read; Elom (God)is acknowledged to be at work; a prayer is said for enemies.

Violence:

Characters are injured in various ways which include being stabbed, a mine collapse, torture, a knife, a dragon fight, whipping and being beaten; and falling from a dragon. A character is drugged, another is executed.

Other:

A character lies to save lives. a character betrays others.

Rating:

Five Stars

Summary:

The King’s Scrolls follows the intense beginning of an epic series started by Half Blood and Resistance. This book will warm your heart before ripping it to shreds, make you cry, and remind you why we in America are so fortunate to have easy access to the Bible and can live out our faith without persecution. The relationship between Kyrin and Kaden is touching as they look out for each other during particularly heart-wrenching difficulties, and I so enjoyed reading more about certain characters (*cough* the oldest Altair brothers *cough*). In short, if you want a book with marvelous characters, a strong faith message, and a plot that leaves you a fangirling, sobbing, and nail-biting mess, I encourage you to read The King’s Scrolls.

The Underground Railroad Brides Collection

May 7, 2019May 26, 2020Leave a comment

Title: The Underground Railroad Brides Collection: 9 Couples Navigate the Road to Freedom Before the Civil War

Authors: Barbara Tifft Blakey, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Cecelia Dowdy, Patty Smith Hall, Terri J. Haynes, Debby Lee, Darlene Panzera, Penny Zeller

Genre: Historical Christian Romance

Trailer:

Length: 448 pages

Publisher: Barbour

Available at: Wherever books are sold

Summary:

Love Guides Hearts Along the Road to Freedom

The Song of Hearts Set Free by Darlene Panzera
Jersey City, New Jersey—1851
Budding abolitionist, Annie Morrison, discovers the man she’s fallen in love with may be a slave catcher in disguise.

Positive Elements:

Characters stand up and fight for those who cannot fight for themselves; the importance of life, forgiveness, and trust is shown. Characters’ faith grows.

Negative Elements:

None.

Spiritual Elements:

God’s love, mercy, and compassion are reflected on; Bible verses are read and quoted; characters pray.

Violence:

Arson is committed; slaves and characters are shot; it is mentioned that slaves are whipped; there’s a rumor that one was skinned alive; slaves are hunted; characters are treated roughly.

Other:

Characters lie to protect others; characters kiss; it is speculated that a character’s fiance has illegitimate children; people steal.

Rating:

An overall 5 Stars.

Epilogue:

The King’s Scrolls

April 4, 20191 Comment

Title: The King’s Scrolls (Ilyon Chronicles, Volume Two)

Author: Jaye L. Knight

Genre: Fantasy

Length: 397 pages

Publisher: Living Sword Publishing

Available at: Amazon and from the author

Summary:

When disaster strikes, all seems lost. Could Elôm have a plan even in the enemy’s triumph?

Positive Elements:

Characters face their fears; a character prays for those about to execute him; familial loyalty is shown as important; characters rely on their faith to give them courage.

Negative Elements:

One usage of “hell”.

Spiritual Elements:

Characters pray; Scripture is read; Elom (God)is acknowledged to be at work; a prayer is said for enemies.

Violence:

Other:

A character lies to save lives. a character betrays others.

Rating:

Five Stars

Summary:

The King’s Scrolls follows the intense beginning of an epic series started by Half Blood and Resistance. This book will warm your heart before ripping it to shreds, make you cry, and remind you why we in America are so fortunate to have easy access to the Bible and can live out our faith without persecution. The relationship between Kyrin and Kaden is touching as they look out for each other during particularly heart-wrenching difficulties, and I so enjoyed reading about certain characters (*cough* the oldest Altair brothers *cough*). In short, if you want a book with marvelous characters, a strong faith message, and happenings that will leave you a fangirling, sobbing, and nail-biting mess, I encourage you to read The King’s Scrolls.

The Runaway Brides Collection

January 2, 2019January 2, 2019Leave a comment

Title: The Runaway Brides Collection: 7 Historical Brides Get Cold Feet at the Altar

Authors: Rita Gerlach, Terri J. Haynes, Noelle Marchand, Vickie McDonough, Darlene Panzera, Jeness Walker, and Renee Yancy

Genre: Historical Fantasy

Length: 448 pages

Publisher: Barbour

Available at: CBD.com, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble

Summary:

What is a woman of the 1800s to do when she feels powerless to choose her own spouse and marry for love—run!

Amy’s home is at stake if she doesn’t marry her neighbor. Delia’s father wants her to marry into a political family. Georgiana is posing as a wealthy man’s wife in order to hide from her groom. Callie is fleeing one wedding and racing to marry a stranger. Emily flees her wedding with the help of a mysterious coachman. Josey’s best friend leaves a letter proposing marriage unanswered in order to elope. Bernadine becomes the ward and pawn of her evil uncle. Where will each turn when they have only God to trust?

Seven women facing the marriage altar make the decision to flee, but who can they now trust?

Positive Elements:

The importance of forgiveness and forthrightness is learned; characters have giving and selfless hearts, and want to serve the less fortunate.

Negative Elements:

Characters are dishonest; a minor character drinks, and another is physically abusive.

Spiritual Content:

Characters mention and question God; Bible verses and stories are quoted and thought upon; characters pray; the salvation message is preached.

Violence:

A character is blamed for a horse’s death; two characters engage in a fight; a brawl is discussed in medium detail; it is mentioned that shops are looted and burned; a man admits to killing two women just before he himself is shot; a train is attacked; a character gets hit in the head by a rock; men are shot and ambushed; a character is backhanded; the harshness of an insane asylum is described.

Other:

Characters kiss; there is one utterance of “shut up”.

Rating:

5 Stars

Summary:

The Runaway Brides Collection is a delightful read. From the determined heroines who find themselves in binds of all sorts, to the heroes who help the runaway brides in their predicaments, to the endearing secondary characters, this collection is well worth reading. Every novella earned a four star or higher, which, for me, is rare when reading collections. I was also introduced to authors I’d not heard of before, which hooked me on their writing. This is a fun collection, and one I definitely recommend reading!

*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. I was not required to leave a positive review.

Similar reviews:

The MISSadventure Brides Collection

Christmas Stitches

The Secret Admirer Romance Collection

The Orphan’s Wish

August 31, 2018August 31, 2018Leave a comment

Title: The Orphan’s Wish

Author: Melanie Dickerson

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Medieval Romance

Pages: 352

Summary:

Orphaned and alone, Aladdin travels from the streets of his Arab homeland to a strange, faraway place. Growing up in an orphanage, he meets young Lady Kirstyn, whose father is the powerful Duke of Hagenheim. Despite the difference in their stations, Aladdin quickly becomes Kirstyn’s favorite companion, and their childhood friendship grows into a bond that time and opposition cannot break.

Even as a child, Aladdin works hard, learning all he can from his teachers. Through his integrity, intelligence, and sheer tenacity, he earns a position serving as the duke’s steward. But that isn’t enough to erase the shame of being forced to steal as a small child—or the fact that he’s an orphan with no status. If he ever wants to feel equal to his beautiful and generous friend Kirstyn, he must leave Hagenheim and seek his fortune.

Yet once Aladdin departs, Lady Kirstyn becomes a pawn in a terrible plot. Now, Aladdin and Kirstyn must rely on their bond to save her from unexpected danger. But will saving Kirstyn cost Aladdin his newfound status and everything he’s worked so hard to obtain?

Positive Elements:

Aladdin take his responsibilities for Herr Kaufmann seriously; Kirstyn shows kindness and care toward orphans; Aladdin shows compassion to an orphan; Kirstyn’s faith grows.

Cons:

Aladdin and another steal; Kirstyn disobeys her father.

Spiritual Elements:

Aladdin quotes 1 John 4:4b; Salvation is mentioned briefly; characters pray; Aladdin pictures Christ on the cross; Kirstyn’s faith grows.

Violence:

Aladdin is attacked by a bear; Kirstyn is knocked unconscious by a thump on the head; a minor character is beaten by another; Kirstyn is struck; it is mentioned that whenever a minor character gets drunk, he becomes violent.

Other:

Two minor characters kiss; it is briefly mentioned tried to molest another; Kirstyn and Aladdin kiss.

Rating:

3.5 Stars

Conclusion:

I want to note right off that my rating of The Orphan’s Wish is my opinion only. While The Orphan’s Wish seemed rushed to me, Melanie Dickerson again produced another good read. Simply, The Orphan’s Wish was not my favorite, but was still an entertaining read. Again, the rating is opinion only. Don’t let it stop you from picking The Orphan’s Wish up!