Walking with the Enemy by C. Read Review

Description:

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Walking With the Enemy," by C. Read is the true story about the authors involvement with a Bible study group that turned out to be a cult remarkably similar to the Branch Davidians of Waco Texas led by David Koresh.

As of 28 February 1993 Read had been with them for some three years and had grown to love and trust the leaders completely but after she found out the truth about them she could no longer remain.

That did not stop them from wanting her back under their control and influence and her testimony will show how they tried so hard to convince her that they were right and she was wrong.

Cults are on the rise and no one is exempt from their evil influences! And even though David Koresh was violently removed from this earth over twenty years ago his spirit still lives on in the hearts of some very deceived and wicked men.

AWARDS

Walking With the Enemy: A Testimony by C. Read

Published by True Light Publications

www.truelightpublications.com

2017 Best Book Awards--Sponsored by American Book Fest

Award Finalist--Christian Inspirational category

9 November 2017



Fourth Annual Illumination Book Awards 2017

Bronze Award--Illumination Medalists in the EBook Non-fiction category

12 January 2017



Dan Poynters 2016 Global EBook Awards

Bronze Award--Non-Fiction - Religion/Faith categories

14 August 2016



Nonfiction Book Awards

Two Silver Awards--Religion and Spirituality categories

5 July 2016



Moms Choice Awards

Silver Award--Named among the best in family-friendly media products and services.

5 August 2015



Author Bio Read first committed her life to the Lord Jesus Christ in the fall of 1979 while she was in the United States Marine Corps. She was stationed in Hawaii but while on a temporary assignment to Yuma Arizona the Iranian students seized the American Embassy in Tehran and had taken several American hostages.

A special friend of hers was on a six-month deployment to Japan and was placed on red alert. He was prepared to go to Iran at a moments notice and she felt so helpless to do anything about it.

That was such an uncertain time in her life and as unbelievable as it may sound Read was actually thankful for the Iranian Crisis because it was that momentous event that caused her to see the great need for her Savior. About that same time a young Marine whom she had never met came up to her as she was leaving her barracks in Yuma and handed her a Bible and said Here I think you need to read this. He just walked away and Read never saw him again but she will never forget him!



That brief encounter was a major turning point in Read s life and she did take his advice. Read started reading and studying the Bible but that was just the beginning of her walk with God...



“Walking with the Enemy is Read’s story of a three-year engagement with a religious cult and the miraculous event that gave her the courage to escape. …this book is an important narrative for any Christian believer, and might be of particular interest to anyone who is a survivor of a religious cult.
–Foreword Reviews

“An inherently fascinating, thoroughly absorbing, candidly personal story that should be considered urgent reading for anyone having to deal with a loved one tempted to join a cult or already part of one. Simply stated, ‘Walking With the Enemy: A Testimony’ is very highly recommended for personal, church, community, and academic library collections. Indeed, ‘Walking With the Enemy: A Testimony’ is critically important reading for all members of the Christian community regardless of their denominational affiliation!” –Midwest Book Review

“Read offers her personal tale of religious awakening, including her experiences with people whom she says were falsely serving Jesus Christ…
Debut author Read’s story is clearly heartfelt. ..Readers will likely be convinced of the author’s devoutness early on, which she bolsters with many biblical references…
…her memoir delivers a quick, highly personalized account of her life’s journey.”
─Kirkus Reviews

My Review:

Wow. This book opened up my eyes to the fact that anyone can be pulled into in occult, not because of who they are, but because of the leaders of the cult. This was a fascinating and sometimes scary look at how close this woman came to losing her identity. I also want to mention that this is also a book that shows religion in different ways, sometimes in ways that I did not agree with, ut had to read to understand what the author went through. This is not a book to be taken lightly. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own. 

April Snow, by Lynn Steward Review

Dana McGarry, separated from her cheating husband, is laser-focused on her new job as a buyer at a leading New York City department store of the 1970s, B. Altman. But in order to achieve success, she must free herself from more than a bad marriage. She is smothered by overly-protective family and friends and becomes discouraged when the Old Guard at the store rejects her brainchild: The English Shop, a boutique that will set B. Altman apart from mainstream retailing.  No stranger to innovation and risk, Dana is determined to stand her ground. She finds both mentor and love interest in the dynamic Mark Tepper, a businessman from the Upper West Side who suggests a bold fashion move to make The English Shop a reality.  Her exciting new world is shattered in a New York minute, however, when a life is threatened, a heart is broken, and a secret is revealed.

Steward captures the nuances of 70s life in New York City and provides the perfect backdrop for Dana McGarry’s journey as an independent woman determined to make her mark.  April Snow is a story that transcends any period. 

My Review:

This is a great sequel to the first book, and I fell right back in place. I felt as though Dana was every woman scorned, abused and her ideas were stolen, There was so much that she had to deal with. Not to mention her family. She finally gets a second chance, but will it be enough for her? At times I felt like nothing else could go wrong, however Dana did not give up. When is enough enough? I am giving this book a 3/3. Definitely shows a woman's determination, against the world. All opinions are my own. 

The way you like him

Impress Him by Cooking

One way that you can impress the man that you love is by cooking. Sure it is wonderful to be taken out to restaurants but that is not the most intimate and romantic thing that you can do. Being alone just the two of you with lighted candles and a meal made for two is the thing that impresses a man the most. So do something extra special and prepare his favorite meal like shrimp scampi linguine. No meal can say I love you except a meal that you made yourself from scratch. Take the time to buy what you need, remember the wine, the candles, and some fresh flowers for the table. Have everything ready and let him sit back and enjoy the meal.

Let Him Know Your Feelings

Sometimes it is difficult for men to discuss their feelings. They are not as used to being completely open and emotional or saying things from the heart as women are. Find the right time to talk and don’t do it when he seems stressed or moody. A man in a good mood and completely relaxed is ready to listen to you. Keep in mind how long you have been seeing each other and when you talk to him about how you feel don’t make him feel like you are pressuring him into doing something or feeling something he is not ready to do or feel. Perhaps start off by offering him some food like a shrimp burger and after he has enjoyed his food start telling him what is on your mind. Just tell him openly and honestly how you feel but don’t expect him to feel exactly the same way. Give him time to think about what you have said and then let him tell you what he thinks. If he is less enthusiastic about your relationship at the moment than you are, give him time and space. If you continue to be loving and good toward him in time he will loosen up and perhaps begin to reciprocate more special feelings toward you as well.

Give Him a Gift

Gift giving is always an uncomfortable thing for a man. Usually they think you expect a gift from them and do not expect a gift from you. It also depends on how long the two of you have been seeing each other. If it has been 6 months or more you are safe to get him something and he won’t think it is too strange. Perhaps you might consider showing him that you understand that there are times he would like to go out with his friends instead of spending another evening with you. That is perfectly alright and you might consider giving him two tickets for a sports event he has been wanting to see so he can go to enjoy it with his best buddy. You can bet he will appreciate this gesture from you. If it is his birthday and you are not sure what to get him, remember that men want to be acknowledged but do not care too much if you give them a special gift or not. So on his birthday bake him a special cake like an eclair cake. He will appreciate it more than if you give him cologne or a watch that he might not even want. Keep the gift giving to a minimum and you will score more points with your man than by showering him with gifts that he won’t really appreciate.

Child has a vacation

Adults might not realize that a child can also be stressed and emotionally exhausted. They always seem to have fun playing and acting as if life is full of joy. You have to remember that children worry a lot because they are little and they cannot really understand the world around them. They have the stress of going to school every day. They might not like their teacher or they might be afraid of a bully. Then they have to go home and do their homework. So life for children is also not just a joyful ride. They also look forward to vacation time when school is out for the summer and they look forward to weekends when they can be with their families. Take the time to greet your children coming from school by baking them a special treat like a honey bun cake that they can have with milk before they have to go do their homework. Remember to see that they have time for rest or having a nap so that they can fully relax when they are at home.

Take Some Time for Reading When Your Children Are On Vacation

The one thing all children look forward to is summer vacation. However a summer vacation should not be all fun there should also be some time for some learning. Now that school is out for a while have your children take the time to fill in workbooks and do quizzes that will train their minds and see how much they learned at school in the past year. One way for children to practice the skills they learned during the school year is by reading. They don’t have to read much but they should take time to read at least for half an hour a day. For older children take a look to see if your local library sponsors a summer reading program. Get your children interested and treat them to something delicious like a 7up cake to show them that you are rewarding them for taking the effort to do a little work even during summer vacation. You can create fun activities for them like doing gardening chores or helping around the house.

How to Make Your Children’s Vacation Unforgettable

One of the important things about family vacations is to focus on the time you’ll spend together not on how much it will cost. Plan activities that you can do together as a family and remember to make a reasonable budget so that everyone can enjoy vacation time. Plan activities that will be fun for both younger and older children and activities that parents can join in on. Have your whole family in on the planning and write up ideas. Finally choose the most reasonable idea and have everyone in on planning where you’ll go, stay, and what you will do. If you have everyone in on the planning you know your vacation will go well. While you’re sitting around planning your vacation make your family a special meal like shrimp lo mein. Once you have decided where you’ll spend your vacation make sure that everyone agrees on the activities you’ll participate in and make sure you set aside a day or two just for relaxing and doing whatever comes to mind at the place you are staying at. Remember that it is not the amount of money you can spend on vacation to make it memorable but the amount of quality time you can spend together as a family.

Reading books

How to Enjoy Reading Books

It is simply a fact that there are people who enjoy reading and those who usually don’t even try to read a book. Books can be a pleasure to read because they can take you into another world and let you escape from your problems for awhile. Take a trip to your local library and enter into the cool and quiet space where there are many shelves all lined with books. Take a deep sniff and pick up the wonderful scent of the pages all filled with things to tell you. Of course, a book cannot speak it is an inanimate object but it speaks through the words of the author that wrote it. Let’s say you have seen a movie and you enjoyed the characters. You still won’t know everything there is to know about them unless you read the book that came before the movie. Decide what genres you enjoy like fiction, non-fiction, history, true stories, and such. Then take a look at what books are available in your chosen genre. You are sure to find something of interest and you can be sure once you begin reading you won’t want to put your book down. When you are at home find a quiet space all to yourself for reading where nothing will distract you. Make yourself some coffee or tea and have a freshly baked slice of crumb cake by your side. Then open your book and step into another world and you’ll leave the world you know behind for a while.

Why I Started Reading

There are many reasons that people begin reading for me it just came naturally from childhood once I learned to read. Later on, there were school books which I had to read for school which might not have interested me as much but were required. When I got the chance to make my own choices at first I chose to read novels. Some of the classics like books by Dickens caught my interest because there were so many fascinating fictional characters that I would otherwise never have known existed. If a book really held my interest I could read for hours. When I discovered Hollywood films created movies from some of the books I enjoyed I was overjoyed to see the characters I loved come to life on the big screen. I also discovered books that could teach me new things. I discovered that I enjoyed cooking by reading my first cookbook and making some of my first meals like shrimp risotto. It was interesting to see that I could create this meal by reading about it in the cookbook. Once I knew that I could find books in many different genres I was completely hooked and always looked for another book to enjoy once I finished reading the book I had previously chosen.

     The Benefits of Reading

Even though some people might not believe it, there are many benefits to reading. First of all after a stressful day a book will help you to relax. Books have the ability to take you far from reality depending on what you have chosen to read. When you begin you feel the stress of the day slipping away from you and your thoughts are now elsewhere. Books can educate you about things you did not know existed and offer you different thoughts and ideas. They can give your memory a boost and offer your vocabulary expansion. Keep a dictionary handy when you are reading to look up the words you discover and did not know before. Reading a book at bedtime will help you drift off to sleep quicker once your thoughts are not racing around thinking of the things you have to still do but have you concentrating on the story you are reading. Many books can be very entertaining and will provide you hours of entertainment where you use your imagination as to what is happening in the book.

    How to Make Reading Fun

Reading can be fun because there are so many books to choose from. You can start off with fiction and find yourself traveling around European countries in the pages of a book. Going to different libraries is fun too Seeing the architecture and design of the library and choosing a special book to read there. Reading can start you off on many different hobbies like arts and crafts or encourage you to try your hand at gardening or cooking. If you already enjoy cooking it can be fun trying different cuisines and making dishes like blackened shrimp which might not be something you thought you would try until you picked up that cookbook. Think about events in history that you are interested in and find a book that will tell you about them. If you like try some audio books where you can listen to the book and close your eyes and imagine what is happening. These are just some ways to make reading fun.

MURDER BY MUNCHAUSEN by M.T. Bass Excerpt & Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.

A police procedural sci fi thriller ripped from future headlines!

After Jake shoots and kills a murder suspect who turns out to be the son of a powerful city councilman, he finds himself demoted to the Artificial Crimes Unit, tracking down androids hacked and programmed to be hit men.

When his case of an “extra-judicial” divorce settlement takes a nasty turn with DNA from a hundred-year-old murder in Boston and a signature that harkens back to the very first serial killer ever in London, Jake finds himself tangled up in the brutal slayings of prostitutes being investigated by his former Robbery/Homicide partner, Maddie–who is now his lover.

But a madman, The Baron, is just getting started with his AI recreations of Jack the Ripper's brutal crimes. And Maddie and Jake are teamed up again to stop the carnage as the Baron's army of human replicants imitate history's most notorious serial killers.

"It might not make sense, but the beloved Media tags it 'Murder by Munchausen.' For a price, there are hackers out there who will reprogram a synthoid to do your dirty work. The bad news: no fingerprints or DNA left at the crime scene. The good news—at least for us—is that they’re like missiles: once they hit their target, they’re usually as harmless as empty brass. The trick is to get them before they melt down their core OS data, so you can get the unit into forensics for analysis and, hopefully, an arrest." [excerpt from Murder by Munchausen]

Artificial Intelligence? Fuhgeddaboudit!

Artificial Evil has a name…Munchausen.

Read an Excerpt

From Murder by Munchausen (#1)

This particular Android Subject apparently went off the rails and killed a luckless pedestrian on his way to a bodega for some iced tea or bottled water to quench his thirst. A one-in-a-million occurrence, but every so often it still happens. Anyone who believes technology is infallible is a fool. The incident didn’t appear all that nefarious when first reported, but shortly thereafter the Atlas data stream went dark and patrol called our unit in. It quickly became obvious we were dealing with a malware hit, not a malfunction. The luckless pedestrian was actually not so luckless, being on what appeared to be the winning side of a particularly nasty termination suit with his ex, who we suspected had outsourced the final settlement to extra-judicial parties.

It might not make sense, but the beloved Media tags it “Murder by Munchausen.” For a price, there are hackers out there who will reprogram a synthoid to do your dirty work. The bad news: no fingerprints or DNA left at the crime scene. The good news—at least for us—is that they’re like missiles: once they hit their target, they’re usually as harmless as empty brass. The trick is to get them before they melt down their core OS data, so you can get the unit into forensics for analysis and, hopefully, an arrest.

About the Author:

M.T. Bass is a scribbler of fiction who holds fast to the notion that while victors may get to write history, novelists get to write/right reality. He lives, writes, flies and makes music in Mudcat Falls, USA.

Born in Athens, Ohio, M.T. Bass grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University, majoring in English and Philosophy, then worked in the private sector (where they expect “results”) mainly in the Aerospace & Defense manufacturing market. During those years, Bass continued to write fiction. He is the author of eight novels: My Brother’s Keeper, Crossroads, In the Black, Somethin’ for Nothin’, Murder by Munchausen, The Darknet (Murder by Munchausen Mystery #2), The Invisible Mind (Murder by Munchausen Mystery #3) and Article 15. His writing spans various genres, including Mystery, Adventure, Romance, Black Comedy and TechnoThrillers. A Commercial Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor, airplanes and pilots are featured in many of his stories. Bass currently lives on the shores of Lake Erie near Lorain, Ohio.

Website: https://www.mtbass.net
Blog: https://www.owl-works.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/owlworks/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Owlworks
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/mtbass
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5270962.M_T_Bass

Murder by Munchausen Trilogy Purchase Links

https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Munchausen-Trilogy-Future-Mystery-ebook/dp/B07QDGHYZ6
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/murder-by-munchausen-trilogy-books-1-3/id1458934052?mt=11
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1131145794?ean=2940156040681
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/murder-by-munchausen-trilogy
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/932579

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EXILE IN DARKNESS by Annalisa Carr Excerpt & Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Annalisa Carr will be awarding a $30 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Heritage and magic matter to the London covens. Aristocratic witch, Isabella Pethany, has heritage but not magic.
Underworld powerbroker, amnesiac vampire Maldit, has magic but no heritage.
Lukas Sindis, coven sorcerer and famous psychopath, has both.

Isabella’s null magic status makes her an embarrassment to her family, but since her sister was murdered, she is all they have left. Guilt makes her willing to do almost anything to compensate for her lack of value, but her grandmother’s proposal to match her with Lukas, in a bid to bring strong magic back to their bloodline, is a step too far.

When Maldit rescues a strange witch from hunting vampires, his main concern is to limit trouble in his territory. Witches are notoriously troublesome, and this one is no exception. Her proximity slashes through his damaged memory, allowing him to catch glimpses of his forgotten past.

Drugs have suppressed Lukas’s magic for almost twenty years, filling him with a reservoir of trapped power. When he escapes, his magic bursts free, falling like a tidal wave on Maldit and Isabella, sweeping away the spells paralysing both of them.

The dark secrets of the London coven are about to explode into the light of day.

Read an Excerpt:

“What do you think you’re doing?” As soon as they were in the taxi, Daisy started on her.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Isabella folded her arms, hunched her shoulders and huddled in her corner of the back seat.

“Don’t lie to me. You let that vampire kiss you. Are you insane?” Spiralling strands of pale hair rose like a halo around Daisy’s face. “And he came to your house. He knows where you live.”

“Your ponytail’s coming undone.”

“Isabella!” Daisy’s voice rose to a screech.

“I like him.” She hadn’t even reached the stage of admitting it to herself yet. Daisy was a pain in the ass. Isabella had never understood how such loud noises emerged from such a small person.

“He’s a vampire.”

“Maybe.”

“A vampire, Izzy. The same species you just told me killed your sister. What happens if he bites you again? What happens if you get addicted? What if—”

“Daisy—”

Daisy blew out an impatient breath. “I can see he’s absolutely gorgeous. Those cheekbones… I’d like to paint him, but for goodness sake, Izzy. You kissed him.”

“All right. I get what you’re saying.” Daisy’s rapidly rising voice made her head ache. “But he’s not like that. And he might help find out who killed Natalie. I need to know.”

“So you’ll see him again? Even if he’s likely to kill you?”

“He’s not going to kill me. He saved my life and anyway, like I said, it might as well be him as Lukas Sindis.”

“And what do expect to get from him? That kiss wasn’t about your sister. Are you looking for a fling?”

“I—”

“Vampires don’t do sex. Remember? Xenobiology level 1? They bite.”

About the Author:

Annalisa Carr lives in the English Lake District with her two cats. She writes in multiple genres, but has a weakness for paranormal romance and urban fantasy.

As a child Annalisa wanted to be a scientist, wear a white coat and explore outer space. She worked as a scientist for a very long time, but never got to fly a spaceship or even travel beyond the solar system. This was a huge disappointment given the reasons for her career choice, so eventually she made up stories instead. Probably just as well, as she is claustrophobic.

Exile in Darkness is set in the same world as the Children of Poseidon series; a slightly skewed version of London.

Annalisa also writes dystopian science fiction under the name ‘Anne Cleasby’.

https://annecleasby.com
http://www.annalisacarr.com
https://www.amazon.com/Annalisa-Carr/e/B00T1H0CQ0
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10798535.Annalisa_Carr
https://www.facebook.com/Annalisa-Carr-1626840070925992

Buy link for Exile in Darkness: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P1JLVF7/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0

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VIVI'S LEADING MAN by Emily Mims Excerpt & giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Emily will be awarding two prizes each containing ebooks Mist and Smoke, the first two books in the Smoky Blues series, to randomly drawn winners via Rafflecopter. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

EXES AND OHS

The marriage was one of convenience. She had status and he had money. But... there was something there, and both of them felt it. After three years of him working long hours and her spending too much time at the Durango Street Theatre, Miguel Abonce and Vivienne Heiser called it quits. One year later, they are forced to work together to save or sell the theater. In the process they discover things they never knew about each other and they learn there's more between them than burning up the sheets. They might really love each other after all.

Read an Excerpt

He should pull away. Instead, tightened his hold while he plundered her sweetness. They clung together for long moments, their moans the only sound in his ears. When he pulled back, he looked into her eyes, dimly lit by the streetlights and a waxing moon in the night sky. “Well,” he murmured softly as he took in her swollen lips and her glazed expression. “Was it as good as it used to be?”

His question seemed to snap her out of her trance. “Yep. Best empty, meaningless kiss I’ve ever had.” Her words were biting, but her expression screamed sad. She pulled back and he let her go, even though every muscle in his body was dying to hold onto her.

She got into the Beamer and in typical Vivienne fashion pulled out of the parking lot a little too fast. He watched her go, his fingers pressed to his lips. It stung more than he cared to admit that she thought what he craved was empty and meaningless.

It had never felt that way to him.

About the Author:

The author of over thirty romance novels, Emily Mims combined her writing career with a career in public education until leaving the classroom to write full time. The mother of two sons, she and her husband split their time between central Texas, eastern Tennessee, and Georgia visiting their kids and grandchildren. For relaxation Emily plays the piano, organ, dulcimer, and ukulele for two different performing groups, and even sings a little. She says, “I love to write romances because I believe in them. Romance happened to me and it can happen to any woman—if she’ll just let it.”

website: http://www.emilymims.com
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/emily.mims.756
twitter: http://twitter.com/emilymimsauthor
instagram: http://www.instagram.com/mims_emily
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Emily-Mims/e/B00FQQ247K/ref=sr_tc_2_0

Buy link: http://boroughspublishinggroup.com/books/vivis-leading-man

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Through the White Wood By Jessica Leake Review, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for

Through the White Wood

By Jessica Leake

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

Hi everyone! I am so excited to share my latest book, Through the White Wood, with you. I have always loved Russian folktales—there’s just something about such fantastical (and often creepy) characters set against a winter backdrop of snow and towering trees that I’ve always found so compelling. . .

Caffeine Addled Ramblings - Review & Interview

"TTWW is the kind of book that keeps you wanting more in the best ways possible. "

G: Speaking of the psychology of characters, we discover early on that Katya isn’t the only one in the book with powers, so how do you choose which powers belong to whom? And does that have anything to do with their personalities at all?

J: It does have a lot to do with their personalities. The reason I chose earth for Grigory is a bit of a spoiler, so I won’t mention it here, but Ivan has the power to negate others’ abilities because he’s sort of the “protector” of the group. For Boris, I thought it would be funny for this guy who loves cooking so much to be a fearsome fighter with superhuman strength. And Kharan was just made for the assassin/spy role.

Hallie Reads - Review

"A story of friendship, magic, romance, and danger, Through the White Wood is fast-paced, engaging, and fun. I love how Leake pulled me into the story and made me care about these characters and what would happen. It’s definitely an enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it to fantasy lovers."

Wishful Endings - Review

"I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end! With the rich setting, magical aspects, character development, a motley crew, and romance, there's not much more readers can ask for. I'm looking forward to more from this author!"

Adventures Thru Wonderland - Review

"Katya and Sasha are each so fun to read about, and I loved seeing them face the challenges and dangers in this story. Giving some strong ‘Ice Queen/Frozen’ vibes, but I loved the classic inspirations used in this story, and really enjoyed the direction Jessica takes [in] this one!"

Dazzled by Books - Review

"Jessica Leake did it again! Through the White Wood is absolutely amazing. This woman knows how to write. If you have not picked up her books, you totally should. She brings such a rich tale to her readers. I just can't get enough."

Bibliobibuli YA - Excerpt

There are countless monsters in this world. Some with fangs, some who skitter in the darkness just out of sight, some who wear human skin but whose hearts have turned dark as forest shadows.

And as my fellow villagers dragged me, bound by rough rope, from the cellar of the elder, I knew that these men and women I’d grown up with—they thought of me as a monster, too.

I wasn’t sure they were wrong.

Moonlight Rendezvous - Review

"Through the White Wood was a beautifully written story with rich descriptions, a strong heroine and a storyline that is bound to sweep you away. . . . This story was thought-provoking and enchanting, keeping me entertained until the very last page. Ms. Leake is a very talented writer and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next."

The Reading Corner for All - Review

"In this impactful return to Jessica Leake's imagination, prepare yourself for a journey. . . . Through the White Wood upheld the integrity of Russian and Slavic folklore through Leake's narrative interpretation that transports readers to a time where legends flourished among men and magic was a means of unlocking the greatest triumphs of the human spirit. . . . this outstanding read must have a reserved spot on your reading corner."

Bookwyrming Thoughts - Review

"I enjoyed Through the White Wood! I liked seeing Katya’s constant struggle of whether or not she’s a monster and her journey to discover who she is. . . . Jessica Leake’s latest novel is a solid story for those who enjoy a slower-paced book with historical and folklore elements woven together."

Book Slaying - Review

". . . I enjoyed Through the White Wood. . . . now that I know that Jessica Leake excels at world-building and folklore-researching. . ."

Bookish Looks - Review

"It is a read full of magic, romance, and friendships. I adored the folklore and just wanted more. I look forward to seeing what else Leake has in store."

A Book Addict's Bookshelves - Excerpt

Then, without another word, he climbed into the driver’s seat, gathered the reins, and pulled us away from the only home I’d ever known, of a prince they said was a monster.

But then, they said I was one, too.

I promised myself I wouldn’t look back, but I did it anyway, squinting through the snow at the thirty-seven villagers who silently watched me leave. It was easy to note the ones who were missing. While the ones who remained stared at me accusingly, I reached down to rub at my wrists where the ropes had once bound them.

onemused - Review

". . . this was an engaging and fascinating read that consumed my YA fantasy-loving heart. This book is great for lovers of magic, YA fantasy and adventure, and fairytale retellings. I would definitely love to meet these characters again in future books."

NovelKnight - Review

". . . the blend of folklore with fiction, all while giving the feel of a magical history that our records forgot. On that front, I think this book excelled. This was a world I wanted to explore further, beyond Katya’s story. . ."

Read and Wander - Review

"I was absolutely captivated. Jessica Leake is such a wonderful storyteller and once again, she brings to life a magical world inspired by Russian mythology. . . . Through the White Wood was a breathtaking, mesmerizing and sometimes gut wrenching adventure. There were so many great characters, some twists and we even got to see our favorites, Ciara and Leif, from Beyond a Darkened Shore. I really hope that we get more stories in this world. I definitely recommend reading anything Jessica Leake writes at this point."

everywhere and nowhere - Excerpt

After the horror of what had happened in the village, it was almost difficult to be afraid of what awaited me with the prince. Almost, but not quite. Rumors hammered at my thoughts as the sleigh traveled farther and farther into the deep woods that surrounded my home.

People disappearing into his castle, never to return. People with abilities beyond human limits. People like me.

Worse still was the knowledge that I went to him having committed crimes whose punishment was death.

A Dream Within A Dream - Review

"Through the White Wood is a thrilling young adult historical fantasy that will have readers begging for more. Although it's technically the second in the series, you can read this without reading the first book without any problems or confusion. I wasn't really sure what to expect going in, but at the end it exceeded anything I could've hoped for."

BookCrushin - Excerpt

We traveled ever farther into the woods, the trees towering above us, snow clinging to their piney branches. I watched animals flee from the oncoming sleigh—birds flitting from tree to tree, squirrels chattering reproachfully, even a fox and hare interrupted from a deadly chase.

I imagined myself jumping down into the snow and escaping into those woods, and I went so far as to shift closer to the edge of my seat. I glanced down at the ground, moving so quickly beneath us. I could jump now, but would I manage to stay on my feet? If I stumbled, I risked serious injury. Still, wouldn’t it be worth it to try rather than be brought before the prince like a lamb to slaughter?

I moved still closer to the edge, gathering my skirt in one hand. I glanced at Ivan, but he continued to face forward.

HelloJennyReviews - Review

"Through the White Wood by Jessica Leake is the brilliantly told story of Katya and Sasha, an orphaned village girl and a prince. . . . after reading this book I can say I am absolutely adding her to my auto-buy author's list. The author writes very vivid and beautiful stories with such amazing characters and worlds that it's impossible to not fall in love."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

Through the White Wood

By Jessica Leake
Young Adult Historical Fantasy

Hardcover & ebook, 416 Pages
April 9th 2019 by HarperTeen

The Bear and the Nightingale meets Frostblood in this romantic historical fantasy from the author of Beyond a Darkened Shore.

When Katya loses control of her power to freeze, her villagers banish her to the palace of the terrifying Prince Sasha in Kiev.

Expecting punishment, she is surprised to find instead that Sasha is just like her—with the ability to summon fire. Sasha offers Katya friendship and the chance to embrace her power rather than fear it.

But outside the walls of Kiev, Sasha’s enemies are organizing an army of people bent on taking over the entire world.

Together, Katya’s and Sasha’s powers are a fearsome weapon. But as their enemies draw nearer, will fire and frost be enough to save the world? Or will Katya and Sasha lose everything they hold dear?

Inspired by Russian mythology, this lushly romantic, intensely imaginative, and fiercely dramatic story is about learning to fight for yourself, even when the world is falling down around you.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository│Indiebound│Powell's│Target

Other Books in the Series

Beyond a Darkened Shore

By Jessica Leake
Young Adult Historical Fantasy

Hardcover & ebook, 384 Pages
April 10th 2018 by HarperTeen

The ancient land of Éirinn is mired in war. Ciara, princess of Mide, has never known a time when Éirinn’s kingdoms were not battling for power, or Northmen were not plundering their shores.

The people of Mide have always been safe because of Ciara’s unearthly ability to control her enemies’ minds and actions. But lately a mysterious crow has been appearing to Ciara, whispering warnings of an even darker threat. Although her clansmen dismiss her visions as pagan nonsense, Ciara fears this coming evil will destroy not just Éirinn but the entire world.

Then the crow leads Ciara to Leif, a young Northman leader. Leif should be Ciara’s enemy, but when Ciara discovers that he, too, shares her prophetic visions, she knows he’s something more. Leif is mounting an impressive army, and with Ciara’s strength in battle, the two might have a chance to save their world.

With evil rising around them, they’ll do what it takes to defend the land they love...even if it means making the greatest sacrifice of all.

Praise for the Book

"Beyond a Darkened Shore is thrilling and romantic. This is a must-read for lovers of fantasy, mythology, and folklore." - Kody Keplinger, New York Times bestselling author of The DUFF and Run

“With undead armies, flesh-eating spirit horses, and a powerful heroine, fantasy, romance, and historical-fiction readers will have a great time.” - Booklist

“While Morrigan and Odin are terrifying, raven-haired Ciara is the star. Beautiful, strong, and independent, she is the perfect warrior princess. Epic historical fantasy filled with deadly creatures, simmering romance, and nonstop action.” - Kirkus Reviews

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository│Indiebound│Powell's│Target

About the Author

Jessica Leake is the author of Beyond a Darkened Shore as well as the adult novels Arcana and The Order of the Eternal Sun. She lives in South Carolina with her husband, four young children, lots of chickens, and two dogs who keep everyone in line. Visit her at www.jessicaleake.com.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram

Tour Giveaway

2 winners will receive a copy of Through the White Wood (US only)
1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
Ends April 17th

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THE VIRGIN CLUB by Kayley Wood Excerpt & Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Kayley Wood will be awarding a $50 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Challenge: Lose my virginity before my 24th birthday. Time Left: 23 days.

Appletinis, a semi-meltdown, and a ‘Lose My Virginity Challenge’ post. That's all it took for my little blog to go viral.

I’m going to be fine. I’m anonymous. I can just delete the post and pretend it never happened. No big deal, right?

Wrong!

My co-worker crush, Logan—gorgeous, yummy and out of my league—found out about my secret deadline-driven cherry popping quest.

Humiliated would be an understatement.

Fortunately, my besties come to the rescue with a brilliant plan that involves my trending blog. If all went smoothly, I'd not only win over the untouchable Logan but also live my dream of becoming a full-time writer.

The plan isn’t just brilliant, it's perfect… until my new boss, Alexander Freeman comes into the picture with his Brooks Brothers suit and Tom Ford briefcase.

So what if the Stiff is hot? I will not ruin my one chance with Logan or my dream career.

But I'm in more trouble than I originally thought.

Turns out Alex has a few intentions of his own and a huge secret I'm totally unprepared for.

Read an Excerpt

David and I walked down the hallway toward the conference room, Maria and Claire trailing behind us.

“Have you noticed what’s trending on Twitter right now?” David asked.

“No. I’ve been absorbed in the Moonstorm Press account. Anything interesting?”

“Very,” David leaned in closer and whispered. “Apparently there is a twenty-three-year-old virgin out there who is set on cashing in her V-card before her twenty-fourth birthday.”

A cold sweat started to form under my arms. This was not good. I let out an over-exaggerated laugh. “Why would something that stupid be trending?”

David smirked. “A twenty-three-year-old virgin sharing her sexual escapades like it’s her diary for the entire world to see? This is the next viral thing. Mark my words.”

Viral? No. My blog was not going viral. I had to delete that post the moment I got home. Maybe even the entire blog.

“Are you talking about The Virgin Club?” Maria caught up beside David and her eyes lit up like she was ready for some juicy gossip.

Yup, I will never drink and post again.

“Yes!” David said. “Have you read any of it?”

“Some, but the site kept crashing, but thankfully someone posted some screenshots on Instagram. Did you see her goal for the first week?”

I wanted to sink through the floor and disappear. The last thing I needed was my work colleagues talking about my sex life—or lack thereof.

About the Author:

Kayley has three simple rules in life:

1. Surround yourself with some incredible, kick-ass women you call friends.

2. Don’t worry about failure or mistakes. It’s how you respond to them that makes all the difference.

3. An appletini is never complete without two cherries.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44301055-the-virgin-club
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18941724.Kayley_Wood
https://www.kayleywood.com/

Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PHC354J

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A Rancher to Remember By Karen Rock Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for

A Rancher to Remember

By Karen Rock

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

Welcome back to the Cade-Loveland extended family! Their 100+ year-old feud is finally over, the water rights dispute settled, and now they can live peacefully, right? Oh... if only it were that simple... Lots of drama still ahead for these strong, faithful and hardworking ranchers in the sixth book of my Rocky Mountain Cowboys series, a raw, complicated second chance love story with a dramatic plot twist you won’t forget!

Baroness' Book Trove - Review

"A Rancher to Remember by Karen Rock is a great book to get sucked into. Cassidy and Daryl have a great love story, one that can bring a person to tears. I am giving this book a five-star rating and recommending it to everyone that reads clean romances. I adored this story."

Faithfully Bookish - Review

"A Rancher to Remember boasts bursts of white-knuckle action, two hurting kids, and a potential second-chance romance soaked in grief and regrets. . . . If you enjoy steamy kisses, good folks, and healthy doses of conflict (and reconciliation) in your stories, A Rancher to Remember fits the bill! There’s never a dull moment with the Cade and Loveland crew and this is yet another entertaining addition to this series."

Hearts & Scribbles - Excerpt

Why had she come back to Carbondale?

It was a mystery Cassidy desperately wished to solve, not just for herself but for a grieving Daryl. She wanted to help her sister’s family pick up the pieces—an altruistic wish, nothing more. So why did her eyes follow handsome Daryl, then? “I know what a big heart your mama had.” Cassidy rubbed Emma’s arm. “How could she help but love you?”

Cassidy had come to love them as her own these past few weeks.

Britt Reads Fiction - Review

"Oh, I just love this series! . . . Daryl and Cassidy seemed so perfect for each other in some ways, yet polar opposites in others. I truly wasn’t sure how the author was going to pull this happily-ever-after off, but she did! I enjoyed reading this story from the first page to the last!"

Pause for Tales - Review

"A Rancher to Remember was a heartbreaking read of love lost and found and of letting go even when it is too soon. . . . This story brings out a lot of emotions and it really digs deep to bring out the hopefulness and longing of what good could come out of this tragic outcome for this family. You might just want to have a few tissues ready."

Christy's Cozy Corners - Review

"I love how there are moments when each of the main characters react with extreme anger because that is how grief works. It doesn’t matter who you’re mad at; you’re just mad because the loss you experienced isn’t fair. Grief is hard work, and I think the author does a great job of showing us just how real these characters’ emotions are. The way that the story plays out is very believable as is the romance between the main characters. I really think you will love this book as well as the others in the Rocky Mountain Cowboys series."

It's All About the Romance - Excerpt

Daryl grinned and extended a hand to Cassidy. “Shall we?”

“I guess we must,” she said breathlessly as he swept her into his arms and slowly danced her around the crowded floor.

She smelled so good. He closed his eyes and breathed in the sweet scent rising from her neck. The way her small hand wrapped around his, the other resting on his shoulder, stirred his blood. His heart lifted. His spirit soared.

Euphoria.

The Power of Words - Review

"With her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series, Karen Rock has become one of my favorite authors in the Harlequin Heartwarming line of clean romances. . . . The characters and back stories of these two families are intricately woven and their “happily ever afters” are not easily won. Aside from the obvious cowboy attraction, what I like most is their humanness – weakness, pride, and misunderstandings, tempered with caring, sacrifice, kindness and love. . . . I recommend A Rancher to Remember, as well as the whole series, to all who enjoy a clean romance with character depth."

Slice of Life - Review

"The reader is immediately swept up into Karen Rock’s romance, A Rancher to Remember, as Cassidy Fulton risks her life to expose corruption in the Philippines, and the intrigue continues as she struggles to attain the missing sections of her memory after returning to her hometown of Carbondale, Colorado."

Jorie Loves A Story - Review

"Whenever I am re-visiting either the Cade's or the Loveland's, it doesn't take long to notice how well-versed Ms Rock has become in writing these stories! Each new installment is an extension of the whole series. . . . This time round, I thought it was fitting we were swinging by the Loveland ranch. . . you might need to brace yourself to transition through a new set of adversities or incidents that might push your beloved characters to the edge of what they can personally handle. All with the joy of knowing that in the end, Rock will give her characters a fitting sense of resolution and will give us, the reader, a wicked good read!"

A Baker's Perspective - Review

"A Rancher to Remember has everything you want and expect from a second chance romance. There’s grief, pain, restoration, romance (of course), kissing (swoon), and so much more. Both Cassidy and Daryl certainly have their flaws, but to be honest that just makes the story even better."

Thoughts of a Blonde - Review

"An emotional journey of forgiveness and redemption! With her signature way of wrapping a group of characters around our heart, Karen Rock brings us the next book in her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series. . . . Loved the raw emotions brought to the surface with this cast of characters!"

Getting Your Read On - Review

"I lovey lovey love this series! . . . It was a roller coaster of emotions and wow, did things end in a dramatic way! This book and it's characters were completely different than any of the other books. It felt fresh and exciting. I loved it!"

Janice's Book Reviews - Review

"I really enjoyed the book. . . . I have enjoyed all the books in the series. I look forward to reading the next book. . ."

Brooke Blogs - Excerpt

A couple of hours later, after finishing their witness statements, Daryl and Cassidy strode from the sheriff’s office.

“Thank you, Daryl,” she said once they hopped in his truck. “You saved my life.”

He cupped the side of her face, leaned close and brushed her lips with a heart-stopping kiss so brief she could have imagined it. Dreamed it. Maybe she had. If so, she didn’t want to wake from this adrenaline-fueled moment. Or lose it.

EmpowerMoms - Review

"This story had great characters (Cades and Loveland families), clean romance, funny, and some sad tragic life events that the characters had to work thru with faith and diligence.

I highly recommend this book and hope to read more from this series and author."

onemused - Review

"This book was truly heartwarming as we follow the two main characters as they work through their own issues individually and together. Noah and Emma (Daryl and Leanne's kids) were just precious and the icing on the cake- there were so many adorable and lovely scenes with the two of them. I love the personal and romantic journeys in this book and highly recommend as a story of beautiful second-chance romance."

Remembrancy - Review

"Y’all, Rock blew me away with this book. . . . A Rancher to Remember surprised me in the best kind of way with Rock’s ability to deliver solid stories with tough issues, family ties that are almost unbreakable, and lots of heated kisses for the romantic in her readers."

Hallie Reads - Review

"A Rancher to Remember is a story full of heart. Family, betrayal, second chances… It’s got a few surprises and plenty of great moments, and I enjoyed it all. "

Locks, Hooks and Books - Review

". . . this one does not disappoint. I loved Daryl and Cassidy’s story. I thought they were so sweet and fun together. I found their chemistry was undeniable. I had no problem to stay focused on the book and keep reading. I had it read from cover to cover in one day. . . . Great book!"

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

A Rancher to Remember

(Rocky Mountain Cowboys #6)
By Karen Rock
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
April 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

They can’t change the past…

but they can choose their future

Globe-trotting journalist Cassidy Fulton is back in Carbondale, Colorado. Only she can’t remember why—or the accident that killed her estranged sister. Helping her piece together this mystery is her brother-in-law and former fiancé, Daryl Loveland. Overcoming their grief seems impossible. Yet one thing is clear: Cassidy can’t imagine her life without Daryl or her adorable niece and nephew. But can the ranch ever really be her home?

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│iBooks│Kobo│Harlequin

Other Books in the Series

About the Author

Award-winning author Karen Rock is both sweet and spicy—at least when it comes to her writing! The author of both YA and adult contemporary books writes sexy suspense novels and small-town romances for Harlequin and Kensington publishing. A strong believer in Happily-Ever-After, Karen loves creating unforgettable stories that leave her readers with a smile. When she’s not writing, Karen is an avid reader who also loves cooking her grandmother’s Italian recipes, baking and having the Adirondack Park wilderness as her backyard, where she lives with her husband, daughter, dog and cat who keep her life interesting and complete. Learn more about her at http://www.karenrock.com or follow her on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/karenrock5.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│Tumblr│Pinterest│BookBub│Amazon

Tour Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card - Open Internationally
- 1 winner will receive signed, print copies of the first five books in the Rocky Mountain Cowboys series (Christmas at Cade Ranch, Falling for a Cowboy, Bad Boy Rancher, A Cowboy's Pride & Winning the Cowboy's Heart) - US Only
- Ends April 10, 2019

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Shattered Stars by Shari Ryan Giveaway & Teaser

Release Date: April 4, 2019

Cover Design: MadHat Books

 

Synopsis

 

“You will lose your memory.” That’s what a doctor told me at just twenty-nine years old. My headaches and exhaustion weren’t from overexertion like I thought. It was more. A lot more.

Despite my unimaginable challenges, I found love at a time I needed it most. Layne, a rising star and popular frontman, was unknowingly singing life into my soul through his allusive lyrics. I lived and breathed for the mesmeric sound of his voice. Kismet led us to a kind of love anyone would die for. However, Layne shouldn’t be stuck loving me after I begin to forget him. We will once again be strangers, separated by a crowd. I can no longer promise him a future like the one he vowed to me. Layne is determined to help me get better. I’m determined to make him see past my illness. The outcome … to be determined.

 

Goodreads

 

   

Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card & Signed Paperback Gift Box

 

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Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b1257f8d457/?

 

 

About the Author

 

Hi Everyone! I'm an indie writer of Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, and Romantic Thrillers. Throughout the last six years of my writing journey, I've hit Amazon's Top 100, Barnes & Noble's Top 10, and iBooks at #1. Hiding in suburbia with my hubby and two wild little boys, my active imagination allows me to live life as adult with many imaginary friends.

 

Connect with Shari

 

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