Sheila's Books Read

Sheila's bookshelf: read

The Best Intentions
Scotland's Melody
The Secret Society of Salzburg
Secret of the Sonnets
20-40-60-Minute Dinners: Meals to Match the Time You Have
Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild
Secret Santa Claus Club: A Tool to Help Parents Unwrap the Secret of Santa
Mr. Pudgins
Revenge Never Rests
The Best Mistake
Meriden Park
More Inspirational Stories for Young Women
The Great Tree: A Christmas Fable
To Capture His Heart
The Call of the Sea
Esperance
Livvy and the Enchanted Woodland
Come, Gentle Night
The Bad Boy Theory
Guide To Smart Wedding Planning: What You want to know and everything you haven't thought of yet.


Sheila's favorite books »

2024 Goodreads Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge
Sheila has read 4 books toward her goal of 100 books.
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Friday, November 30, 2018

It's the $100 Kick Off Giveaway for 12 Days of Clean Romance! There will be FREE e-books, awesome sales & great giveaways!


It's the $100 Kick Off Giveaway for...

12 Days of Clean Romance

December 2018!!!

During the month of December, we'll be featuring 12 Authors who write clean romance!
There will be $400 worth of Giveaways plus great deals on books!
You are invited to come join the fun, learn about these great authors & find your next favorite book!


There will be FREE e-books, awesome sales & great giveaways!
 
Check out this great list of featured authors who are sponsoring this event!
 
Never miss a giveaway, freebie or sale by signing up for Clean Wholesome Romance's Reader Newsletter!
Are you a blogger or reader who would be willing to post about this event on your blog or social media? Sign up here.
Are you an author who writes clean romance? Learn more about CWR upcoming events here
 

To start things off we have a $100 Giveaway!

So how excited are you? Let me know down below! Are any of these authors one of your favorites? Share what books you've read and recommend. We all want to know.

Giveaway Details 
  $100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/1/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the participating authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Julie Wright: Blog Tour Review and Giveaway




Product Details
Title: Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Author: Julie Wright
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Series: Proper Romance (Stands-Alone)
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Comedy
Release Date: November 6, 2018
***I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review***

Book Summary:
The Lie
Women in Hollywood are just pretty faces. But Silvia Bradshaw knows that’s a lie, and she’s ready to be treated as an equal and prove her worth as one of Hollywood’s newest film editors.

The Love
She and Ben Mason had worked together as editors before Silvia got her big break, so he’s the perfect person to ask for feedback on her first major film. But even as their friendship begins to blossom into something more, a lawsuit surfaces, jeopardizing both of their jobs—as well as their fledgling romance. Audrey Hepburn once said: “The most important things is to enjoy your life—to be happy—it’s all that matters.” Silvia agrees. Or she used to. It’s one thing to risk her job and her heart, but can she really risk Ben’s too? Does she have the right to make decisions for her own happiness when they affect so many other people?

The Breakfast
With everything to lose, Silvia meets Ben for breakfast at his favorite diner, Tiffany’s, for one last conversation before the credits roll on true love.


My Review: 
Once again I'm swept away by a story from author Julie Wright. She has written in so many genres and I've liked all of them. 

Lies. Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's is based in the world of Hollywood...not the actors, but the behind the scenes world of film editing. It was very interesting and I really liked all of the lines from various movies that main character Silvia and her good friend Ben would tease back and forth. The witty dialogue between Silvia and Ben is one of my favorite things in this book.

There are so many unique things about Silvia, including how she survived cancer at a young age and lost her eye to the disease, she ended up getting a glass eye, and she named her eye "Audrey" after actress Audrey Hepburn. I also like how driven Silvia is to succeed and her very lively personality that helps her get through many obstacles in the way. Ben is a true gentleman and a big sweetheart. You want them to get together in this book, but it's like an awkward dance the whole time getting to that final outcome. It's sounds like my life all the way! 
πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚At times you to have to laugh or you'd cry a lot. 

Lastly, I loved how Silvia is best friends with Emma,the main character from Julie's previous book, Lies Jane Austen Told Me. How fun to see her again because I loved that book. This Proper Romance is very different from others, but I have to say it was a very fun read and I recommend it for those looking for a change of pace from the "normal" romance. Get ready to read and laugh your way through, Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's.


Meet Author: Julie Wright
 
 
Julie Wright (1972-still breathing) was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. She's lived in LA, Boston, and the literal middle of nowhere (don't ask). She wrote her first book when she was fifteen. Since then, she's written twenty three novels and coauthored three. Julie is a two-time winner of the Whitney award for best romance with her books "Cross My Heart" and "Lies Jane Austen Told Me" and has also won the Crown Heart award. Her book "Death Thieves" was a Whitney finalist for 2016. She is agented by Sara Crowe. She has one husband, three kids, two salamanders, one dog, and a varying amount of fish (depending on attrition). She loves writing, reading, traveling, hiking, playing with her kids, and watching her husband make dinner.

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

My Brother's Bride By Rachael Anderson-Release Day and $50 Giveaway!

 
My Brother’s Bride by Rachael Anderson 
Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty. When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams. But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments. Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor.  
  Excerpt
When Brigston entered the kitchen, Abby’s back was partially to him, so she didn’t immediately see him. Her brow was furrowed in concentration as she whipped something in a bowl. She paused to lift the spoon, only to frown at the white liquid dripping from it.
“Are you certain this will thicken into a cream?” she asked.
A flash of irritation crossed Monsieur Roch's face until he spotted Morgan and seemed to think better of it. He managed a patient tone in his accented French. “It takes time, my lady.”
Morgan stifled a chuckle as Abby examined another spoonful of the liquid. “I’ve been whipping it for several minutes, but it doesn’t seem even a little thicker to me. Have I forgotten to add something?”
“No,” said the cook in clipped tones.
Morgan stepped forward and leaned in close. “If your arm is tired—”
Abby jumped, and what liquid remained on the spoon splattered across Morgan’s face. She spun around, her eyes growing wide with horror when she saw what she’d done.
He wiped a dab from his nose and tasted it. “A little more sugar, perhaps?”
“Brigston! I’m so dreadfully sorry.” She dropped the spoon into the bowl and grabbed a rag from a nearby wash basin, dabbing it across his face.
“Not that rag!” cried the cook. “It was only just used to mop the floors.”
Abby dropped it as though it had burned her, and Morgan tried not to cringe at the thought of filthy water coating his face.
Monsieur Roch retrieved a clean rag and held it out to him, appearing apologetic. He flicked another irritated glance at Abby before returning to his work.
As Morgan wiped the cream from his face, he wondered what Abby would do or say next. Offer another fumbled apology? Make her excuses and flee? Pretend the incident never happened and return to her labors? He never knew what to expect from her.
Her face scarlet, she cleared her throat and lifted her adorably determined chin. “You are most welcome, my lord.”
He raised a brow. “For what, my lady?”
“I have heard that cream does wonders for one’s complexion, and it seems the rumors are correct. Your skin appears much . . . creamier.”
  Praise for My Brother's Bride I found this book to be completely unexpected. I have read all the historical novels by this author and they have all been fun and delightful reads and even though this book had those elements as well, it was definitely more emotional than I was expecting... I loved Abby’s quiet strength and Morgan’s protectiveness. These two were great together. ~Melanie   My to-read list is long but Rachael is one author I always bump to the top and put all other books on hold for. She never disappoints so it's no surprise that this is another top-notch offering from Rachael. I loved these characters and cheered for them as they overcame obstacles and circumstances that tried to keep them apart. My Brother's Bride is an awesome and needed addition to the clean romance genre. So many authors pump out books so fast that often I find the quality of their work is lacking. Since I read for entertainment I'm able to forgive a lot and typically just overlook the shortcomings that are prevalent with so many books in this genre. Thankfully that is not the case with Rachael's books. I'm grateful for the time she takes to ensure she offers her readers quality books with original storylines that won't disappoint. ~ Kathy     Giveaway Details $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 12/16/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway Inspired Kathy bkhabel@gmail.com

Sunday, November 25, 2018

DragonWatch: Wrath of the Dragon King-Book 2 (A Fablehaven Adventure) By Brandon Mull




Product Details

  • Title: DragonWatch: Wrath of the Dragon King
  •  Author: Brandon Mull
  • Age Range: 8 - 13 years(Though many adults love them like me!)
  • Grade Levels: 3 -7
  • Series: Dragonwatch (Book 2)
  • Hardcover: 416 pages
  • Genre : Middle Grade Fantasy
  • Publisher: Shadow Mountain (October 23, 2018)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 9781629724867 
  • **I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review.** 

 Book Summary

Dragons have declared war on humanity...

After a humiliating defeat at the hands of Kendra and Seth, Celebrant, King of Dragons, prepares to unleash his fury and take control of his native preserve. Two of the seven dragon sanctuaries have already fallen. Will Wyrmroost be next?

Armed with secret information from a new ally, Celebrant seeks a talisman that will guarantee victory in the war against the humans. With a cursed castle and traitorous creatures standing in the way, Kendra and Seth must attempt to foil Celebrant’s plan and beat him to his prize.

Will the two young caretakers rally enough support from the creatures of Wyrmroost to quell the uprising and protect the world from draconic dominion? One thing is certain—dragons are deadly foes, and one wrong move could bring swift defeat. It will take more than Kendra, Seth, and their current allies have ever given to endure the wrath of the Dragon King.

 ****My Review****
I really loved book two of Dragonwatch: Wrath of the Dragon King. The characters of Kendra and Seth have grown up so much and are faced with even more complex problems as the caretakers of Wyrmroost.It's been fun to see how they've grown into their powers and their roles as caretakers of a dragon sanctuary. They are up against such a formidable foe, Celebrant, King of Dragons. He is so powerful you wonder through the whole book how they will ever come out on top, considering Celebrant has declared war on humanity. There are so many new and exciting things that Kendra and Seth receive to help them in their quest, but there's also so many challenges facing them; especially when they go to an old, spooky castle. This is one of those books that you'll want to read when you have a huge block of time because it's hard to put down. This book is a must read for all Fablehaven fans, but don't read this book until you've read the first book in the Dragonwatch series! These are great books for Middle Grade readers and would make a perfect Christmas gift!


Excerpt From Wrath of the Dragon King
Kendra sat rigidly in her griffin saddle as Didger the dwarf buckled in her legs. The creature shifted beneath her, saddle creaking, plumage ruffling near the neck. She patted the feathery shoulders, powerful muscles rolling beneath her palm.

Didger went to the head of the griffin and took the reins. “Steady, Sheba, the girl is already nervous.” He handed the reins to Kendra.

“Should you tell her that?” Kendra asked.

“She can smell your fear much better than I can see it,” Didger said. “Fortunately, with Sheba, your worry makes her gentler. She’s our oldest griffin, and the most considerate of her rider. Gave her to you for a reason.”

Kendra looked over at Tanu and Seth on their own griffins. “And the others?”

“Sage for Seth, since she is faster and more maneuverable than some but still obedient,” Didger said. “He wanted Tempest, but her temperament is too volatile for a peaceful mission where she will be stabled by strangers. And Tanu rides Titan, our strongest griffin, since the potion master is, well, larger than some.”

Tanu caught Kendra staring and gave a little salute. She smiled back, then, jiggling the reins, glanced down at Didger. “How do I steer?”

“Hold the reins loosely,” Didger advised. “The griffins know the way. When you leave the feast, Tanu will assist you into the saddle. Just tell Sheba ‘home.’ She’ll do the rest.”

“All right,” Kendra said.

“Straps feel snug?” Didger asked. “Can’t pull your legs out, can you?”

Kendra squirmed, but her legs were immobilized. “I’m stuck.”

“Perfect,” the dwarf replied, his smile showing a couple of gaps in his teeth. “When you’re ready to dismount, pull the release down, right, and away like I showed you.”

“Got it,” Kendra said.

Somebody patted her leg, and Kendra turned to find Grandpa and Grandma Sorenson on the opposite side of the griffin from Didger. “You take care and watch out for your brother,” Grandma said.

“I will,” Kendra promised.

“Be polite, and make no agreements with Celebrant,” Grandpa reminded her.

“But don’t take any of his sass,” Grandma said.

“I’ll do my best,” Kendra promised.

“You come home safe,” Grandpa said. “Stay near Tanu.”

“I will,” Kendra said.

Grandpa and Grandma moved on to Seth, who was drinking a potion. Kendra knew the courage effects would let Seth and Tanu interact with dragons for about eight hours. They each carried two extra doses just in case. Once the doses were gone, Tanu lacked some of the ingredients required to make more.

“Come on, Mendigo,” Kendra called. “Time to meet the dragons.”
A featureless wooden humanoid with hooks for joints, Mendigo stood his ground, which was peculiar. He always obeyed direct orders. Kendra had brought the animated puppet to Wyrmroost after Agad had restored him to her, and he had generally stood guard over her ever since.

“Mendigo, come,” Kendra said.

The limberjack held up both palms and shook his head.

“Agad,” Kendra called. “Can Mendigo be afraid?”

The wizard approached Mendigo. “What is the problem?” he asked.

“Mendigo doesn’t want to come with me,” Kendra said.

“That doesn’t seem right,” Agad said. “He is an automaton. He follows commands. Mendigo, go to Skyhold with Kendra.”

The puppet shook his wooden head again.

“I’ve never seen him scared,” Kendra said. “When Seth and I fought Siletta, her poison nearly destroyed him. Only his hooks remained. Do you think he remembers?”

“Perhaps at some level he does,” Agad said. “Animating objects is a peculiar form of magic. As you bestow enough intelligence to follow commands and make simple choices, you risk bestowing some degree of individuality. Mendigo was created once by the witch Muriel, and then the wizard Vernaz helped me reanimate him from his meager remains.”

“Won’t you come protect me?” Kendra asked Mendigo. The puppet shrugged and shook his head.

“There could be some residual trauma from his previous demise,” Agad said. “He could be starting to develop a modest will of his own.”

“It happened to Hugo when the fairies resurrected him,” Kenda said. “He started developing free will. But that came from their magic, I think.”

“This new quirk was not deliberate,” Agad said. “But a fear of dragons seems to have taken hold. Best to leave him behind on this venture.”

Book Trailer for DragonWatch: Wrath of the Dragon King-Book 2


Purchase Dragonwatch: Wrath of the Dragon King
HERE: https://amzn.to/2R81rf8





 

Meet Author Brandon Mull:

Brandon Mull is an American author who wrote the children's fantasy series, Fablehaven, as well as Dragonwatch series, The Candy Shop War, the Beyonders trilogy, and the Five Kingdoms series. He also began the Spirit Animals series. He was inspired by J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and J. K. Rowling.
Learn more about Brandon and his books at his website HERE!

Friday, November 23, 2018

Glorious Truths About Mary, Mother of Jesus by Susan Easton Black : Blog Tour Review and Giveaway-$25 Amazon Gift Card and a Free Copy of ’Glorious Truths About Mary Mother of Jesus’



Glorious truths about mary
Product Details
Title:  Glorious Truths About Mary, Mother of Jesus
Author: Susan Easton Black

Publisher:Covenant Communications, 2018

ISBN: 978-1-52440-870-1

Genre: LDS Inspirational Nonfiction

**I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review.***

 Book Summary

Throughout the world, millions of devout followers of Christ look to the Virgin Mary as a sacred figure, a woman to be revered and worshiped. While Latter-day Saints do not worship this chosen vessel of the Lord, we do esteem Mary as one of the most influential people in history. Her faithfulness changed the course of the world, but even so, much detail of her life remains unknown to most. In Glorious Truths about Mary, Mother of Jesus, readers are invited to join distinguished LDS scholar Susan Easton Black on a journey of discovery spanning the life and legacy of this unparalleled faith-filled giant. Discover, through scriptural and historical sources, the compelling look at how Mary, mother of Jesus, has been characterized over the centuries and the true story and lasting influence she has had—this woman whose incomparable example continues to guide and inspire religious women today.

My Review
Glorious Truths About Mary, Mother of Jesus is a great book to read this time of the year. The thing that I was surprised about was how much historical information was included in this book. It's written so well and presented in such an interesting way you can hardly tell you're reading a non-fiction book. There is also such a spiritual and awe inspiring feeling as you read about Mary and her devotion to God and to her son, Jesus, the Savior of the World. You realize even more how humble and special Mary was and why she was the chosen one to be the mother of God's son. 

At only 84 pages this is a quick, but inspirational read. It will leave you with a new love and understanding of the Virgin Mary and her huge contribution to the world. This book would make a great gift for anyone. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to review this and learn more about the life of Mary, her husband Joseph, and of course Jesus's wondrous life and mission.


Purchase links


Blog Tour Schedule


 

 
Meet Author: Susan Easton Black

Dr. Susan Easton Black joined the faculty of Brigham Young University in 1978, where she is currently a professor of Church history and doctrine. She is also past associate dean of General Education and Honors and director of Church History in the Religious Studies Center.


The recipient of numerous academic awards, she received the Karl G. Maeser Distinguished Faculty Lecturer Award in 2000, the highest award given a professor on the BYU Provo campus. Dr. Black has authored, edited, and compiled more than 100 books and 250 articles.

 $25 Amazon Gift Card and a Free Copy of ’Glorious Truths About Mary Mother of Jesus’
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

Violin Words: A Christmas Romance By Taylor Dean: $50 Book Blast and Giveaway

 
Violin Words by Taylor Dean  
WHO IS THE AUTHOR? When Jade Lockwood begins to receive anonymous love letters, she becomes a woman on a mission. She’s determined to figure out who wrote the flowery, over-the-top letters filled with the sweetest violin words she’s ever heard. She’s neglected her love life, concentrating on Lockwood Cabins, the business her father built from the ground up. But her sweet letters have awakened something inside of her, something that can’t be ignored. Facing Christmas alone this year, her emotions are already fragile. Add in a mysterious burglary, a handsome stranger, and a little deceit, and it just might be the most eventful Christmas she’s ever endured. Will Jade find her happy ending? Or will her love letters prove to be nothing more than a sinister ploy? Find out in this charming Christmas novel.  
 
Praise:
-Don’t miss this fun, perfect holiday read by a master storyteller! -Mylissa Demeyere, Author of The Songs of You and Me and The Songs that Brought Me Back

-A sweet, heartwarming romance with a twist of mystery and suspense, all wrapped up in Christmas magic that makes this one hard to put down. -Charissa Stastny, Author of The Ruled Out Romance Series  
Excerpt:  I have no clue whatsoever as to The Author of the one and only love letter I’ve ever received. I’ve neglected my love life, giving all of my attention to Lockwood Cabins. Now I realize what a mistake that has been. When I read the letter, I’m filled with sensations I didn’t know existed. It’s as if I can physically feel the depth behind his words. I’m taken away to another world and I just want to float away, wrapped in his love. The Author’s words are flowery and eloquent, stirring and moving. They’re as lyrical and achingly sweet as a few strokes from a violin. Violin words. Yes. My letter is filled with violin words. All meant for me. And I love them. A few simple chords from a violin inspires soul soaring emotion within me and leaves me breathless. Somehow the sound speaks to me and I have to close my eyes and thank God that I’m alive, if only to hear such a precious sound. But when I read my love letter, my reaction is the same. Words alone have never had this effect on me. Plain and simple words—twenty-six letters all strung together in thousands of combinations—and together they form the most beautiful thoughts. I hold the letter to my chest and absorb the love. It’s the sweetest torture, the most exquisite agony. I welcome it. To feel is to live, I know that now. Wow. Just wow. Are those violin words really directed toward me? I always figured I’d meet someone and get married one day. But never in my wildest dreams did I imagine a man would speak to me like that. It sends a thrill through my body. Every time.



    Author Taylor Dean
 Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up.


   

Blast Giveaway Details 
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 12/12/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, November 19, 2018

Treasure Hunt/Blitz for Berlin Butterfly - Ensnare by Author Leah Moyes




 Leah Moyes is from Arizona but experienced many parts of the world in thanks to a career in the airlines. Now most of her time, aside from writing, is spent with her family, reading Historical Fiction novels or studying ancient cultures as a student of Archaeology.


She always believed she was born in the wrong time period, but since she doesn’t have access to a time machine she must write and read intriguing stories of the past. 






Twitter ~ Goodreads ~
Amazon ~



Stay or flee? Life or family? An impossible choice.

It's Aug 13, 1961, in Berlin Germany. Nationale Volksarmee soldiers roll barbed wire across the war-torn city to create the first Berlin Wall.
Families are separated, livelihoods destroyed, death comes easily as crippling fear paralyzes the occupants on both sides of the wall. Fifteen-year-old Ella is faced with an agonizing decision. Does she risk crossing the wall and possible death to reach her family? Or does she embrace her new life and blossoming love that could be wrenched from her at any moment? West Germany and possible freedom or East Germany and controlled chaos?

Ensnare, the first book in the “Berlin Butterfly” series, is a story of life, love, survival and the struggle of living through the dark early years of the Berlin Wall. Readers will be captivated with Ella’s strength, determination, and vulnerability as she opens her heart amidst a dangerous and terrifying journey."




Snippet:

Bam! Bam! Bam! The heavy pounding launched me flat to the floor. Face down, I realized I’d done exactly what I had meant not to do— fall asleep. I rubbed my eyes and attempted to comprehend what was happening. They were blurry and strained. I heard another loud thud splinter the door as someone busted through. I leapt to my feet the very moment I heard the crunch of glass under heavy boots. They came in like I imagine a herd of wild animals would, how many I did not know. I no longer had time to get to the kitchen window as planned.

Their inability to be discreet allowed enough coverage for my brazen dash to the bedroom closet. It was the only place I’d possibly have a chance to hide. I maneuvered to the far corner with only a few of Mama’s dresses for cover. I smashed against the wall as closely as possible and pulled a long trench coat in front to make it appear as if it was the last item on the rack. A pair of winter boots was pushed forward to hide my feet. My toes curled tightly in the confined space behind them.

The brutes did not seem to mind that their audacious duty came without restraint or consideration for anyone or anything. The sound of furniture upheaved, and dishes broken amplified with each passing second.

I was fully awake now, struggling to calm my surging breath. I cringed at the thought they would find my small collection of belongings near the back window. This included all the Mark I had, yet I knew right now the money was the least of my problems. If they found me, I could be arrested or face far worse consequences. I’d heard stories of young women found at the hands of crazed, irrational soldiers. I had risked everything by staying in the flat.

Someone entered the bedroom and proceeded to flip the bed. If he touched it, he would have felt the warmth my body heat left against the blanket. It didn’t sound as though he had. Another man entered, and they talked about possible hiding places for valuables. The harder I pressed against the inner wall, the more I lost feeling in my limbs. I prayed they would not come over to the closet. It was useless. I knew they would check even before I heard the footsteps turn my direction.




To view our blog schedule and follow along with this tour visit our Official Event page 





Saturday, November 17, 2018

My Hands Hold My Story By Bethany Swafford-Official Book Tour & Giveaway: Exclusive Author Interview!





For fans of A Knight of Silence and Read My Lips comes a YA historical western full of grit and heart...

In 1874, Ivy Steele's deafness is more than a handicap. It's a disease. Surrounded by a family that doesn't understand her, she's learned to cope and find solace where she can. Then, the unexpected happens. Her aunt dies, and her uncle sends her away to rejoin her father's family in Montana.

Left to fend for herself, after the companion hired to escort her abandons her, sixteen-year-old Ivy faces continual hardship and danger. Several men see an unaccompanied Ivy as a flower ripe for the picking, and things only get worse when masked men hold up their stagecoach.

Barely scraping through, Ivy makes it to Montana with her nerves shaken and what little money she has in her boot. Expecting a peaceful if not affectionate welcome, Ivy finds herself in greater hardship than she's ever known.

Surrounded by a stepfamily that hates her, and flung into a life where hearing is vital, Ivy finds solace in a handsome cowboy named Remy. But things with her new family are not what they seem. And Ivy is about to find out that the danger she faced on the journey west, has followed her to Montana...

Bethany Swafford dazzles with her stunning young adult debut, introducing a strong heroine, the hardships of frontier life, shocking twists, and a slow-burning romance that will leave you wanting more.

Third place winner of the 2018 Rosemary Award






For as long as she can remember, Bethany Swafford has loved reading books. That love of words extended to writing as she grew older and when it became more difficult to find a ‘clean’ book, she determined to write her own. Among her favorite authors is Jane Austen, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Georgette Heyer.

When she doesn’t have pen to paper (or fingertips to laptop keyboard), she can generally be found with a book in hand. In her spare time, Bethany reviews books for a book site called More Than A Review.







Author Interview
Author: Bethany Swafford
Book: My Hands Hold My Story


Tell us about your writing - What genre do you prefer to write? What books, stories, other publications that you've written are your personal favorites? Anything new coming up?
Before My Hands Hold My Story, I’ve mostly written Regency romance. I have to say, A Chaotic Courtship has been my favorite. I just love the interactions Diana has with her siblings while she tries to give attention to the man she’s falling in love with. I have a trilogy I’m working on that is more mystery than romance.

What about you as a person? What do you do to relax? Favorite movies or tv shows? Hobbies?
Honestly, writing is what I do to relax from my day job. I do look forward to new episodes of Victoria and The Crown.

What gets your creative juices going? Do you write to a music, and do you want to share your playlist?
I do write to music, and it is the main way I get creative.

"All writers must have cats, especially if they write fantasy or speculative fiction." Do you have a stand on this one? Any cute pictures of your kitty or other pet?
It’s not absolutely necessary to have a cat, but my three definitely make life more interesting. A long haired, multi-color female by the name of Chewie, who hates me most of the time. (Not pictured) A long haired black ninja cat, named Muddy, who has anxiety issues and doesn’t like to be out of sight of us.. And my buddy, Skidz, who is a gray stripped, one eared gentleman. (And we are never letting my brother name our pets again.)
Skidz                                                                         Muddy

What organizations do you recommend for those wanting to become writers? Any advice you'd like to share about writing?
Listen to podcasts about writing. I recommend the SPF Podcast (Self Publishing Formula), The Bestseller Experiment Podcast, and The Creative Penn Podcast. I get great ideas and advice from these people.

What writers inspired you to become an author?
Jane Austen. Her grasp of the social norms of her time and the wit she used to poke fun at these norms is amazing to read. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s characters, especially Sherlock Holmes, was an influence as well.

Any special appearances or events coming up that you want to mention?
Not at the moment!

If you could travel to any time in history, when would you visit?
The Victorian Era. They made incredible strides in science, society, and industrial, and I would love to be able to watch it all happen.

If you could have dinner with any of your characters, which ones would you choose? What food would you serve?
I would have all of my heroines: Ivy, Diana, Juliet, and Emily. I think they would all get along, though Emily would probably pick a fight. I’d go for a simple meal: roasted chicken, with mashed potatoes, peas, and fresh baked bread with apple cake for dessert.

If you could travel anywhere, on earth or off, where would you go?
I’ve never been outside of the US, so anywhere would be amazing. I think I would especially love to travel to the UK and tour all the old houses.

What color would you wear if you had only one choice?
Blue. It can be a happy color or a somber color. It goes with my eyes too, so it’s perfect for me!

Describe your dream writing spot.
On the deck of a cabin in the mountains




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