My Book Reviews

Category: Christian Fiction

This category contains any posts published in reference to books of Christian Fiction genre.

  • Summer Up ! by Tom Leihbacher

    Summer Up ! by Tom Leihbacher

    Summer Up

    Summer Up ! by Tom Leihbacher

    Release: July 14, 2022
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle,

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    The last day of school had finally arrived, and summer break was on. With it came the promise of two and a half months of sun-drenched, fun-filled freedom. There were  Summer camps,  trips,  sports , foods, and nights to look forward to. And to say nothing of summer afternoons hanging out at the town pool or the teenage art of sleeping in. But not every day was all fun and games for Charlie Riverton and his friends. During that memorable summer of ’75, they faced a protracted battle for turf rights in their own backyards.

    It wasn’t easy, and they took their lumps along the way. But they stuck together and stood up for themselves. With helpful guidance from a heavenly friend, their shoulders grew a little broader and an unforgettable new chapter was written into Briarcliff Manor folklore.

    Come join Charlie, Sky, and the whole cast from A Gift Most Rare on a summer-long, fun-filled, coming of age adventure.

    About the Author:

    Tom Leihbacher resides in his hometown of Briarcliff Manor, New York. He and his wife are active in community and church activities. In addition to membership at Sleepy Hollow Country Club, he enjoys dining at the local restaurants, spending time at his family home on Cape Cod, and taking long, daily walks with his rescue dog, The Gipper. His first novel A Gift Most Rare was published in October of 2020. Summer Up! is the sequel. There are two more books under development in this four-part series.

    Website | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Summer Up ! Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    I loved reading “A Gift Most Rare” by the author and was looking forward to “Summer Up.” The story is a beautiful continuation to revisit the characters at Briarcliff. This book focuses more on DMarks, and how he changes during the summer as the group finishes middle grade and prepares for high school.

    The author has a beautiful writing style that melts your heart. I enjoyed DMarks in the lead. At times, he is annoying for how he gets the group into trouble, but I loved seeing him transition with Sky’s presence, which even Charlie noticed. The author also adds a touch of adventure and excitement as DMarks faces off his rivalry with Will Morris. It was interesting to see the various pranks the two pull off and also a bit scary as to how far they would go to beat each other. Will also turned out to be one of my favorites.

    Moreover, I loved the sense of community, as we also invest in the lives of the other residents at Briarcliff. I adored Mr. Olson and Mary and their budding romance thanks to Taylor and Annabelle. Similarly, Parker and Suzie were cute, and I loved how the author wrote their scenes together. At the same time, I also enjoyed Charlie and Michelle together and found them adorable.

    Another beautiful thing about the story is that, even though it is religious, the author doesn’t force down the religious themes too much in the story. The book is beautiful because of the heartwarming characters and their simple idyllic lifestyle, which makes you want to feel like you belong there. I am so excited that two more books are coming out in this series, as I cannot wait to revisit the characters.

    Overall, “Summer up!” is a great continuation!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Summer up

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Summer Up ! by Tom Leihbacher Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

  • Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas by Suzanne Lang, Max Lang

    Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas by Suzanne Lang, Max Lang

    Grumpy Monkey

    Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas by Suzanne Lang, Max Lang

    Release: September 14, 2021
    Format: Hardcover, eBook
    Publisher: Random House Studio
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    Jim Panzee, our favorite #1 New York Times bestselling grumpy monkey, is feeling like quite the Scrooge this holiday season!

    It’s Christmas time in the jungle, and Jim just can’t get into the holiday spirit. Then Norman offers Jim a festive green banana and Jim feels sick, making everything seem worse. All the other animals in the jungle are ready and eagerly awaiting Christmas, but Jim feels everything stinks. Norman tries to find the solution…and shows Jim that everything can be solved with a soothing cup of tea and time spent with a good friend.

    About the Author:

    SUZANNE LANG produces, develops, and writes children’s television. Formerly with Cartoon Network, she is presently the story editor of an animated comedy series for Cake Entertainment and Copa Studios. Suzanne has a BFA in film and television from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts.

    Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon |BookBub

    About Max Lang:

    MAX LANG is an animation director, storyboard artist, character designer, and illustrator. He codirected the adaptation of The Gruffalo, which was nominated for an Oscar and a BAFTA, as well as the adaptation of the picture book Room on the Broom, which has won numerous awards, including the Cristal for Best TV Production at the Annecy Animation Festival.

    Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas” is the latest installment in the series, and while I have not read any of the Grumpy Monkey books, I adored this picture book!

    Let me start by mentioning how creative the author made the storyline. From the catchy names like “Jim Panzee” to a Christmas-themed story set in the rainy jungle with no Christmas colors, “Oh, No! Christmas” certainly stood out for me and made it memorable. The plot beautifully highlights how if we changed our perspective of our surroundings and became thankful for the positive things, our life would fill with joy.

    I know few people in my life, just like Jim, the Grumpy Monkey. The author portrayed all the characters charmingly, and I paused to admire each of them. I love the Oxpecker’s fondness for Christmas, Marabou’s love for singing, and sweet Norman. Even Jim was hilarious as the grouchy monkey who is pessimistic about everything.

    The illustrations are also adorable and quirky and immediately make you smile. I loved the expressions of Jim, Norman, and the rest of the characters. Even the illustrations are so creative, like when the animals use leaves to wrap up the Christmas presents. This picture book is one that the kids would surely enjoy for the beautiful illustrations. Even the adults would resonate and self-reflect to be thankful for the positive things in their life, no matter what challenges they are facing.

    Overall, “Oh, No! Christmas” is a lovely addition to the “Grumpy Monkey” series. I hope to pick up more books in the series and revisit Jim and the other colorful cast.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will win a finished copy of GRUMPY MONKEY OH, NO! CHRISTMAS, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Grumpy Monkey

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas by Suzanne Lang, Max Lang Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    The Phantom Paragrapher-Review-12-6/-2021
    For the Love of KidLit-Excerpt-12-6-2021
    perusewithcoffee-Review-12-7-2021
    @bookhounds-Review-12-7-2021
    @curlygrannylovestoread -Review-12-8-2021
    One More Exclamation-Review-12-8-2021
    YA Book Nerd-Review-12-9-2021
    Coffee and Wander Book Reviews-Review-12-9-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-12-10-2021
    @enjoyingbooksagain-Review-12-10-2021

    Week Two:
    Jazzy Book Reviews-Review-12-13-2021
    The Pages In-Between -Review-12-13-2021
    @coffeesipsandreads-Review-12-14-2021
    This.nerdy.bookworm-Review-12-14-2021
    @thebookishfoxwitch-Review-12-15-2021
    Pick a good book-Review-12-15-2021
    Midnightbooklover-Review-12-16-2021
    The Momma Spot-Review-12-16-2021
    two Points of interest-Review-12-17-2021
    onemused-Review-12-17-2021

  • My Name is Mary Magdalene by J.C. Miller

    My Name is Mary Magdalene by J.C. Miller

    My Name is Mary Magdalene

    My Name is Mary Magdalene by J.C. Miller

    Release: December 7, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Jess, Mo’ Books LLC
    Source: RABT Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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    Stepping away from her comfort zone, author JC Miller orchestrates a written tapestry chronicling the fragile state of a woman on the edge of insanity.

    Plagued by a lifelong curse of mental illness, Mary Magdalene finds herself spending her golden years in a mental asylum. Her once zealous life becomes minimized to an endless routine of over-stimulating antipsychotic drugs. That is until Salmone Abrams, a hidden jewel from her past, resurfaces and helps her remember who she once was—The Queen of Harlem. Madame Mary Mags.

    Inspired by her jazz playlist, JC Miller’s current novella, My Name is Mary Magdalene, shakes the family tree while exploring the often-stigmatized topic of mental health. This fictional spin on the biblical account of Mary Magdalene and her seven demons travels from the late 1940s into the mid-1990s as Mary recalls the battles that tore her life apart. Fear, Lust, Entitlement, Greed, Misery, Dependency, Guilt—emotional baggage that once achingly held her down propels her to victory.

    About the Author:

    JC Miller lives in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania with her husband, children, and floppy-eared Bassador pup.

    Raised by a single mother in the Bronx, JC pulls from early experiences to showcase the soul of urban survival through faith-based novels. She also dedicates much of her time uplifting women via her blog and creating content with partner and friend, MR Spain, through their publishing company, Jess, Mo’ Books LLC.

    On her days off, you can find JC whipping up her famous Red Velvet cake and listening to songs from her impressive vinyl record collection.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | GoodReads

    My Name is Mary Magdalene Review:

    “My Name is Mary Magdalene” is a compelling tale about one woman’s turbulent life and how she builds the courage to fight through.

    The book is a quick read but so effective. Stories revolving around institutions and asylums intrigue me because I always wonder how the characters wound up there. The author grabbed my attention right from the beginning as we find mary in an institution, possibly suffering from Schizophrenia and manic depression. The scenes where the author describes her life there gave me goosebumps. I was glued to the seat when Sal entered the picture, and Mary recollects the events that led her there.

    The author does a beautiful job of toggling between the past and the present. I got engrossed in learning about Mary’s parents and the awful Mr. Lackey. Mary goes on a wild journey from her romance with Richard and fights with Lottie to getting in trouble in New York in a life of drugs and alcohol. The story is dramatic and filled with surprises, and there were never dull moments.

    I thought the author portrayed the characters wonderfully. Whether Mary, Sal, Tiny, or Martita, all the characters brought something of value to the tale. Sal was my favorite character because he lifted Mary’s spirits and gave her courage. Moreover, I liked how the author incorporated the classic gospel tale of “Mary Magdalene” and the seven vices in this fictional tale, as Mary faces greed, lust, misery, etc.

    Overall, I thought the author did a great job executing “My Name is Mary Magdalene.” It’s an excellent book covering Faith, romance, and mental health issues. I look forward to reading some of her other books as well.

     

    Book Blitz:

    My Name is Mary Magdalene

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the My Name is Mary Magdalene J.C. Miller Blog Tour hosted by RABT Book Tours. 

  • A Gift Most Rare by Tom Leihbacher

    A Gift Most Rare by Tom Leihbacher

    A Gift Most Rare by Tom Leihbacher

    Release: August 31, 2020
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc 
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N,  Kobo

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    It’s Christmastime in the pocket-sized village of Briarcliff Manor. With yuletide spirits flying high, life seems close to perfect in this quaint suburb of Manhattan.

    But not everyone feels the holiday cheer. While most go about their joyful holiday pursuits, young Charlie Riverton is restless. Compassionate by nature, he’s especially mindful of the lonely and forlorn.

    At the same time, he’s the unofficial leader of a close-knit group of sixth-grade buddies. Together they grapple with pre-teen hijinks, newfound freedoms and an emerging, nerve-wracking interest in girls.

    Meanwhile, there’s a curiously gifted newcomer in town. Charlie develops a special friendship with the handsome stranger and together, they set out to craft a God-honoring Christmas gift for the whole community. Along the way, lives are changed, and people begin to look at Christmas a little differently.

    Come spend the holidays in Briarcliff with this feel-good, coming of age story set in small-town America in the early 1970s.

    About the Author:

    Tom Leihbacher has lived in Briarcliff Manor, New York for most of his life. After graduating from Briarcliff High School and then the University of Florida, he returned home and began a career in the media and advertising sales business. He and his family live in the Tree Streets and enjoy a rich life filled with church and community involvements and great friendships. He listens to Dr. Cook’s Walk with the King broadcast each morning before boarding a Manhattan-bound commuter train at Scarborough Station; passes through Law Park and the Pine Forest frequently; enjoys membership at Sleepy Hollow Country Club; stops for sunsets over the Hudson River and once in a while can be found skating at one of the frozen ponds in town.

    After 35+ years in the corporate world, “A Gift Most Rare” is his first novel. A summer sequel will be ready soon. Please visit my author website to learn more.

    Website |Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    A Gift Most Rare  Review:

    Some books touch your heart as soon as you start reading them, and this is how I felt when I picked up “A Gift Most Rare.”

    This book gave me Hallmark movie vibes (and I wouldn’t be surprised if we got a movie adaptation of the same). The author tells the story and depicts the characters with such innocence, warmth, and compassion that it just lifted my spirits. The author describes the story beautifully, touching you and making you feel good, with a sweet tale from the 1970s.

    Another reason to enjoy the tale is how the author highlights the importance of community and how we all need to support each other. While Charlie is the central character, the author gives equal importance to the rest of the cast. I also enjoyed the side characters like Suzie and her scenes with Mr. Olson. Similarly, I also enjoyed Parker and found his storyline interesting. Reading this book made me want to be a part of Briarcliff Manor as well.

    Charlie is excellent in the lead as he tries to uplift and help others. Similarly, Skylar (Sky) is intriguing as the mysterious character enters their lives and sparks Charlie’s friendship. The author also adds a level of mystery and magic, like when Charlie hears voices at night and references feathers and feather dusters.

    Moreover, this book provides the perfect segue for you to get in the Christmas mood. From the tree decorations to the annual tree lighting ceremony, I loved how the author incorporated the magic of Christmas into the storyline.

    Overall, I loved everything about “A Gift Most Rare,” and I thank the author for writing such a sweet, simple, yet super novel.

    Book Tour Schedule:

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on A Gift Most Rare by Tom Leihbacher Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

    Cassie’s Book Reviews-Nov. 2nd
    She Just Loves Books-Nov. 8th
    Novels and Latte Book Club -Nov. 10th
    Rajivs Reviews-Nov. 17th
    Amy Lynn Lifestyle-Nov. 27th
    Love My Books 2020-Nov. 29th
    Books Love And Understanding-Nov. 29th
    Candid With Courtney –-Nov. 30th
     Bookphile Belle-Nov. 30th
    Laura’s Next Chapter-Dec. 1st
    Rozier Reads and Wine-Dec. 6th
    The Mary Reader-Dec. 6th
    Biblio Reviews-Dec. 6th
    We Break For Books-Dec. 6th
    Geaux Get Lit-Dec. 9th
    Subakka Bookstuff-Dec. 11th
    Radus Reads--Dec. 15th
    Bookish Heidi-Dec. 20th
    Delightfully Booked-Dec. 20th

  • Nobody’s Mulligan by Brian Holt

    Nobody’s Mulligan by Brian Holt

    Nobody's Mulligan

    Nobody’s Mulligan by Brian Holt

    Release: December 27, 2019
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Covenant Books
    Source: iread Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks

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    They believed neglecting faith would bring no consequences. Let there be a redefinition of the term ‘Holy War’ forever .

    There is a cordial invitation for you  to stroll the streets of a modern-day “Mayberry” that has lost its way, unaware of its role in a global apocalyptic future. Each step away from the faith was the equivalent of a blind sprint towards disaster, and for the people of Grace’s Parrish this resulted in being designated as the point Satan chose to breach and ignite an inextinguishable hell on earth! With death and time confiscated, the tormented citizens surrendered the one they treated as an outcast to relieve their anguish. Those who believe their life includes more than their fair share of transgressors will easily identify with protagonist Margaret Sullivan. This modern-day Joan of Arc epitomizes fighting empty-handed is not synonymous with being unarmed, and when the smoke clears, the price is heavy.

    Nobody’s Mulligan is a call to self-inventory with eternity at stake. Accentuated with the divinity of forgiveness, Nobody’s Mulligan culminates with a robust “What if?” question ripe for insertion into present day discussion.

    Escalating depravities are the ravenous moths devouring the Christian fibers of our American quilt and this plague has but one remedy. Nobody’s Mulligan is a compelling proclamation that ‘turning the other cheek’ is not an invitation to the sinister and silences “Fifty Shades of Gray” with a single shade of pray. A feel-great-fiction certain to reverberate through the Christian faith and into ancillary sects of Irish, conservative, women’s empowerment, family saga, and dramatic thriller enthusiasts. No one comes away unscathed. Not even you.

    Expect to be moved.

    About the Author:

    A proud father of five from Levittown, New York, Brian
    Holt was retired from a career in law enforcement as well
    as over thirty years as a volunteer fireman serving as chief. Indulging in his own desire to write, Brian sat down and started jotting thoughts but struggled to compose a viable outline. Frustrated, he found his biggest inspiration as the result of praying the rosary daily, asking for the words to the book that needed to be written. After some weeks, Brian sat at his desk and whispered a form of a spiritual epiphany to himself,  “Okay, your way, not mine.” From there, the first words of Nobody’s Mulligan began to flow. .

    Website | Amazon | Facebook |  Goodreads

    Nobody’s Mulligan Review:

    When I started reading “Nobody’s Mulligan,” I did not know what to expect. However, as I continued to read, the story became an epic read of good vs. evil, and I could not put it down.

    The main highlight of the story is the lead characters. Margaret is fantastic in the lead as she finds herself battling against the force of evil. I also liked the plot where she searches for more information on her parents, and I loved the scenes with her grandfather. Apart from Margaret, I loved Paddy Sullivan and thought he was another star. Paddy and Margaret form a great team.

    Similarly, even other characters like Brian and Nicole added nicely to the plot. Craig Templeton, my word! How do I begin to describe this sinister character? No book would be exciting without a memorable villain, and Craig fit the role flawlessly.

    The author paces the story nicely, where we see how he forms the bigger picture. Moreover, I thought the author did an excellent job in the second half, as the events lead to an exciting climax.

    Having said, that I did find the initial chapters a bit difficult to get by. Some scenes and characters did not add value to the canvas, like Otis, Walter, Garvin, and Claude. At times I felt the author sidetracked the plot by writing scenes on more minor characters. Once you get past the initial chapters and focus only on leads, the story is lovely.

    Apart from that, I thought this was an awe-inspiring debut by the author, and I look forward to reading more of his books in the future. Overall, “Nobody’s Mulligan” is a great Christian fiction fantasy novel that I feel is worth checking out.

    Giveaway:

    Win signed copy of Brian Holt’s NOBODY’S MULLIGAN (one winner/USA only) (ends Sep 10)

    NOBODY’S MULLIGAN by Brian Holt Book Tour Giveaway

    Book Tour Schedule:

    Nobody's Mulligan

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Nobody’s Mulligan by Brian Holt Blog Tour hosted by iread Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    23rd Aug  – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / guest post / giveaway
    24th Aug  – Cheryl’s Book Nook – book spotlight / giveaway
    24th Aug  – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
    25th Aug – Gold Dust Editing & Book Reviews – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
    26th Aug  – The Adventures of a Traveler’s Wife – book review / author interview / giveaway
    27th Aug  – Books for Books – book review 
    30th Aug  – Books for Books – book review / giveaway
    ​30th Aug  – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book spotlight / excerpt / giveaway
    31st Aug  – Book Corner New and Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
    1st Sep – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
    2nd Sep – Rajiv’s Reviews – book review / giveaway
    3rd Sep – Splashes of Joy – book review / author interview / giveaway

  • The Girl Who Stole an Elephant by Nizrana Farook

    The Girl Who Stole an Elephant by Nizrana Farook

    The Girl Who Stole an Elephant

    The Girl Who Stole An Elephant by Nizrana Farook

    Release: March 1st, 2021
    Format: Hardcover
    Publisher: Peachtree Publishing Company
    Source: Publisher
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, Kobo.

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    An action-packed, instant best seller in the UK.  Hitch a ride on this global adventure from Own Voices debut author Nizrana Farook.

    Chaya, a nobleman’s rebellious, outspoken, no-nonsense daughter, can’t resist the shiny temptations the king’s palace has to offer. But playing Robin Hood for her impoverished community doesn’t come without risks. And when Chaya steals the queen’s jewels from a bedside table, a messy getaway jeopardizes the life of a close friend. After an equally haphazard prison break, Chaya barely escapes on the king’s prized elephant. With leeches and revolution lurking in the jungle, Chaya leads her companions on a thrilling adventure. But, after leaving her village as a thief, can she return as a hero? Or will Chaya’s sticky fingers be the beginning of the end of everything for the intrepid gang?

    Own Voices debut author Nizrana Farook spins an exciting, page-turning tale in a lush, vibrant, fictional Sri Lankan setting and featuring themes of friendship and loyalty, risk and reward, and heroism. Hence, a great middle-grade escapist novel and read-aloud!

    About the Author:

    Nirzana Farook was born and raised in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and the beautiful landscapes of her home country find their way into the stories she writes. Moreover, she has a master’s degree in writing for young people and lives in Hertfordshire with her husband and two daughters.

    Her debut, The Girl Who Stole An Elephant, was Waterstones Children’s book of the month for January 2020. The book was shortlisted for the Inaugural Joan Aiken Future Classics Prize.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    The Girl Who Stole An Elephant Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    The very first thing I loved about the story is the adventure. The author writes the tale in a fast-paced, compelling manner. You get sucked into the story from page 1 as Chaya steals the jewels! A few twists and turns appear towards the end, which I did not expect, and added nicely to the story. Also, some moments were thrilling, like when the group experiences the leeches and leopard. Furthermore, the author also describes the setting of the gorgeous landscape of Sri Lanka in a breath-taking manner. I felt like I was with Chaya, Nour, and Neel as they ventured into the woods on their adventure with Ananda.

    Similarly, the characters are distinctive and unique. The author writes the friendship angle between the three realistically and fluidly. Chaya was a complex character. At times, I adored her for her bravery and how she would go to any lengths to help Neel. But, on the other hand, I wouldn’t say I liked the way Chaya treated Nour. Surprisingly, I also found her funny when she narrates the letter she wrote to her father. At the same time, Nour, Neel, and Ananda are adorable as they try to find a way to survive. On a side note, I would love a backstory of Princess Leela.

    However, I felt the author ending the story too fast by quickly resolving everything. It would have been nice if the author detailed the climax and gave the reader time to adjust. Apart from that, this was a fun tale!

    Overall, “The Girl Who Stole An Elephant” is an adorable middle-grade adventure that I enjoyed reading!

     

  • Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray

    Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray

    Love and a Little White Lie

    Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray

    Release: August 4, 2020
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
    Source: Love Books Tours
    Find it at: Amazon

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    January Sanders grew up believing karma was more reliable than an imaginary higher power. But after suffering her worst heartbreak in 29 years, she’s open to just about anything, including taking a temporary position at her aunt’s church. Keeping her lack of faith a secret, January’s determination to use her photographic memory to help Grace Community’s overworked staff, all while scraping herself off rock bottom.

    What she doesn’t count on is meeting the church’s handsome and charming guitarist, who not only is a strong believer but has also dedicated his life to Christian music. It’s a match set for disaster, and yet January has no ability to stay away, even if it means pretending to have faith in a God she doesn’t believe in.

    Only this time, keeping secrets isn’t as easy as she thought it would be. Especially when she’s constantly running into her aunt’s landscape architect, who seems to know everything about her past and present sins and makes no apologies about pushing her to deal with feelings she’d rather keep buried.

    Torn between two worlds incapable of coexisting, can January find the healing that’s eluded her or will her resistance to the truth ruin any chance of happiness?

    About the Author:

    Tammy L. Gray lives in the Dallas area with her family, and they love all things Texas, even the erratic weather patterns. Her nine modern and true-to-life contemporary romances include the 2017 RITA Award-winning My Hope Next Door and show her unending quest to write high-quality, culturally relevant stories with relatable and flawed characters. When not taxiing her three kids to various school and sporting events, Tammy can be spotted crunching numbers as the financial administrator at her hometown church. Writing has given her a platform to combine her passion with her ministry all while sharing the messy yet remarkable journey that is a faith-filled life. This text refers to the paperback edition.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

    Love and a Little White Lie Review:

    Reading this book was like tasting cotton candy at the carnival. It just makes you feel good all over.

    Click to view on Instagram

    The author hooked me to the story from its unique setting from the first page itself. Jan is running away from her past and her storyline immediately intrigued me. Initially, the author introduces a lot of characters Cameron, Brent, Nate, Eric, Thomas, Dillon, and Ralph that took time to adjust with. But as the story progresses, you get to know all of them. More than Jan, I loved Dillon in the story. He has a realistic, no-nonsense attitude but immediately captures the reader’s heart.

    There are so many instances that stood out for me. I loved the scenes where Jan goes to read for Ms. Cox, and how she tries to save Ralph and Victoria’s marriage. Jan is a sweet character who is trying to find her way in life. And let’s not forget the main highlight of the story, Jan and Dillon. In fact, I felt conflicted between Dillon and Cameron because I loved Jan with both of them initially. What’s really interesting about this book is that there are no negative characters as such. All the characters you meet are very charming and have valid reasons for behaving a certain way. Moreover, I liked Darcy’s character and her history with Cameron. Similarly, I also loved Jan’s relationship with Doreen.

    However, at times the story felt a bit slow and repetitious. While I loved Jan’s romance with the leads, there were times when it lagged. But apart from that, this turned out to be a wonderful, feel-good romance that just puts a smile on your face.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Love and a Little White Lie

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray Blog Tour hosted by Love Books Tours.

    Courtney.and.her.books – 19th Oct – Review
    Tangents and Tissues – 19th Oct-Review
    Mrs LJ Gibbs – 19th Oct-Review
    Bookwormcheryl – 19th Oct _ Review
    Orchard Book Club – 20th Oct-Review
    Rajiv’s Reviews – 20th Oct-Review
    Bookread2day – 20th Oct-Review
    Mandy W87 – 20th Oct-Review
    Just a Girl Who Loves to Read – 21st Oct-Review
    Celeste C. Cruz – 21st Oct-Review digital
    Booksaremybestfriendz – 21st Oct-Review
    Daisy Says – 22nd Oct-Review
    Mummy Life and Books – 22nd Oct-Review
    Jajaborquiline – 22nd Oct-Review digital
    Reading_with_rio – 22nd Oct-Review
    Duck Face Kim – 23rd Oct-Review
    Frost magazine – 23rd Oct-Review
    Jane Hunt Writer – 23rd Oct-Review
    Novelle Novels – 23rd Oct-Review
    C is for Claire Reads – 24th Oct-Review
    Blog – Lis loves books. Insta – Lis Laugh Love – 24th Oct – Review
    Little Miss Book Lover 87 – 24th Oct-Review
    The Book Reader – 24th Oct-Review
    A Girl Who Loves to Read – 25th Oct-Review
    Rhirhireader – 25th Oct-Review
    This Early Bird Reads – 25th Oct-Review
    Bookshortie – 25th Oct-Review

  • Like Nothing Amazing Ever Happened by Emily Blejwas

    Like Nothing Amazing Ever Happened by Emily Blejwas

    Like Nothing Amazing Ever Happened

    Like Nothing Amazing Ever Happened by Emily Blejwas
    Release: April 14th 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Delacorte Press
    Source: Amazon

     


    Synopsis:

    A poignant story of a boy picking up the pieces of his life after the unexpected death of his father, and the loyalty, concern, and friendship he finds in his small-town community.

    Justin doesn’t know anything these days. Like how to walk down the halls without getting stared at. Nor what to say to Jenni. Or how Phuc is already a physics genius in seventh grade. Or why Benny H. wanders around Wicapi talking to old ghosts. He doesn’t know why his mom suddenly loves church or if his older brother, Murphy, will ever play baseball again. Or if the North Stars have a shot at the playoffs. Justin doesn’t know how people can act like everything’s fine when it’s so obviously not. And most of all, he doesn’t know what really happened the night his dad died on the train tracks.

    And that sucks.

    But life goes on. And as it does, Justin discovers that some things are just unknowable. He learns that time and space and memory are grander and weirder than he ever thought, and that small moments can hold big things, if you’re paying attention. Just like his math teacher said, even when you think you have all the information, there will be more. There is always more.

    Set during the Gulf War era, Like Nothing Amazing Ever Happened is a story about learning to go on after loss, told with a warmth that could thaw the coldest Minnesota lake.

    Like Nothing Amazing Ever Happened Review:

    Wow! I was just speechless after reading this book. It talks about a subject which I feel needs to be written carefully. The topic being how to deal with the loss of a loved one and the author perfectly captured it.

    The story is very simple, yet so beautiful and poignant. The author tells us how people cope with death differently. For Justin’s mother, it is about turning towards religion and God. Murphy wants to become an atheist because he doesn’t believe anymore. Justin is still trying to find out what happens and looking into science and parallel dimensions. The book talks about coping in so many layers. Moreover, it tells us that in the end, we just need to live in the moment and cherish it. But it also highlights the importance to know the history of anything to appreciate if more. I loved the whole angle of Justin researching the history of his town to have others connected to it.

    Another aspect that I loved about this story is that there are no good or bad characters. The author did not stereotype the characters, and captured them realistically. They are all normal decent people who are living their lives. On a side note, I also liked the friendship between Jenni and Justin. Phuc is a wonderful side character, but I wish the author had given him a better name *lol*. I loved all the facts he mentions about parallel dimensions and infinite possibilities we have. Another reason I liked the story was for all the war trivia it mentioned. It gives everyone an idea of the background behind the Gulf War and Vietnam. Overall, I truly loved reading this book, and now want to read the author’s other works.

  • A Journey Toward Hope by Victor Hinojosa, Coert Voorhees, Susan Guevara

    A Journey Toward Hope by Victor Hinojosa, Coert Voorhees, Susan Guevara

    journey toward hope

    A Journey Toward Hope by Victor Hinojosa, Coert Voorhees, Susan Guevara
    Release: March 1st 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Six Foot Press
    Source: Netgalley

     


    Synopsis:

    Every year, roughly 50,000 unaccompanied minors arrive at the US/Mexico border to present themselves for asylum or related visas. The majority of these children are non-Mexicans fleeing the systemic violence of Central America’s “Northern Triangle”: Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala.

    A Journey Toward Hope tells the story of Rodrigo, a 14-year-old escaping Honduran violence; Alessandra, a 10-year-old Guatemalan whose first language is Q’eqchi’; and the Salvadoran siblings Laura and Nando. Though their reasons for making the journey are different and the journey northward is perilous, the four children band together, finding strength in one another as they share the dreams of their past and the hopes for their future. Written in collaboration with Baylor University’s’ Social Innovation Collaborative, A Journey Toward Hope is a celebration of their humanity and an ode to the power of hope and connection even in the face of uncertainty and fear.

    Journey Toward Hope Review:

    A BIG Thank You to Netgalley and Six Foot Press for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy of “Journey Toward Hope” for my review.

    This is a short yet beautifully written children’s picture book. Firstly, the illustrations by Susan Guevara are breathtaking. Each page has a beautiful watercolor feel to it with bright colors that make the story stand out. Moreover, you immediately root for all the characters because they are brave and hopeful! No matter how arduous their journey is, they keep moving on for a better future. Also, I loved how the book depicted each character as a separate animal to showcase their strengths. Furthermore, I found the footnotes at the end of the book very informative as well. It has a note from Baylor University that talks about how there are many children who migrate from Central America to the United States for various reasons, and not all of them are pleasant.

    While I loved how positive and hopeful the characters sounded in the book, I wish the author had also depicted the dangers better. As this is a children’s book, I can understand the limitations to what they can put in. However, the story makes it sound like the kids have a fun time sitting on top of trains and have no problems in Mexico City like theft etc. It would have been nice if the author included this somehow. Also, I cannot imagine the street life in Mexico City being friendly towards homeless children. But this is a very minor aspect.

    Having said that, I really liked the rest of the book. Overall, this is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that I feel should be in all the schools and libraries.

  • No Vacancy by Tziporah Cohen

    No Vacancy by Tziporah Cohen

    no vacancy

    No Vacancy by Tziporah Cohen
    Release: August 1st 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Groundwood Books
    Source: Netgalley

     


    Synopsis:

    Buying and moving into the run-down Jewel Motor Inn in upstate New York wasn’t eleven-year-old Miriam Brockman’s dream, but at least it’s an adventure. Miriam befriends Kate, whose grandmother owns the diner next door, and finds comfort in the company of Maria, the motel’s housekeeper, and her Uncle Mordy, who comes to help out for the summer. She spends her free time helping Kate’s grandmother make her famous grape pies and begins to face her fears by taking swimming lessons in the motel’s pool.

    But when it becomes clear that only a miracle is going to save the Jewel from bankruptcy, Jewish Miriam and Catholic Kate decide to create their own. Otherwise, the No Vacancy sign will come down for good, and Miriam will lose the life she’s worked so hard to build.

    No Vacancy Review:

    A BIG Thank You to Netgalley and Groundwood Books for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy of “No Vacancy” for my review.

    What I really liked about this story was how positive the characters were. I enjoyed reading about most of them, whether it be Maria, Father Donovan, Mrs. Whitley or Anton. Most of the characters are written very well. I also liked Miriam as the main character. She has many questions about life and notices that nothing is simple. But, she tries to make the best of the situation and help people when needed. I also liked Anton’s character and thought it was good talk about a strong character in a wheel-chair. Moreover, the story also sends out a positive message about how we are all one, irrespective of our cultures and religions. It is a very important message these days when there is so much racism and hatred in the world. On a side note, I also enjoyed the Spanish phases Maria teaches Miriam.

    However, I felt like the author could have paced the novel better. The book picks up initially when they move in and get adjusted to the motel. It maintains the same momentum till they find the cut-out of Virgin Mary. But then it feels like nothing much happens, and the book takes a different turn to look at various religions. The book then suddenly picks up towards the end with what happens to Sammy. While I understand what the author was trying to achieve, I thought they could have paced it better. I also felt the author left some of the plots open ended. For instance, we never find out who painted the message in the motel sign.

    Apart from that I enjoyed reading this story. I think the author has done a very nice job for a debut novel and hope to see more releases in the future.