Thursday, June 28, 2018

~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE -- MOON AND STARS ~

~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~
--  'MOON & STARS'  --
AUTHOR ELIZABETH JOHNS
~Post Includes:  Book Spotlight,
  Author Bio, Excerpt & Giveaway~

 


  


 

ABOUT THE BOOK:
'Moon and Stars' by Elizabeth Johns 
Lady Charlotte Stanton was officially on the shelf. Her first offer to be a chaperone had sealed her fate at the advanced age of eight-and-twenty. Yet, one magical evening a mysterious gentleman took pity on her and danced with her clandestinely under the stars. He refused to tell her who he was—other than unsuitable. It has ruined her peaceful existence as an aging spinster. Sir David Douglas, known to many as Captain Deuce the infamous smuggler, regardless of having changed his ways and made his fortune away in the Indies. His past was destined to follow him forever. Despite helping bring down a high level smuggling ring, the King wants him to do more to earn his pardon. Reluctantly, he is forced back into the dark trade of smuggling once again. As Sir David struggles to gain his freedom, Lady Charlotte tries to unravel his mystery and help him. But will she find her happily ever after or will she be caught up in the sins of his past?  

   
“Sometimes I think I have more in common with the moon and the stars than Polite Society,” a deep, baritone voice said from behind her, as if the man had heard her thoughts. 

Charlotte managed not to flinch. She was unused to anyone seeking her company in dark places. “Yes, I was brought up amongst the ton, yet it is not often comfortable,” she replied, still looking at the night sky.

 “That is the last word I would use for it,” he said as he came to stand next to her. 

He was so close she felt warmth radiating from him and smelt his scent of spice and pine. She was afraid to turn and look. She did not wish to ruin the moment with reality, yet the arm of his coat appeared to be well made, and his hands appeared to be strong. They stood there in silent kinship, listening to the sounds of laughter and dancing coming from the ballroom. 

“Would you care to dance?” 

Charlotte did not answer. This man must be someone new in Town, someone who knew not who she was, or could not see her clearly in the moonlight. What did it matter? It was only a dance. One dance would change nothing. She held her hand out to him and finally allowed herself to look up. 

“Have we been introduced?” she asked, annoyed at her inanity. 

She had never before seen this man, of that she was certain. His light grey eyes twinkled in the moonlight, and they were looking at her—her!—flirtatiously. Crinkles formed at the edges of his eyes, indicating an experience and maturity that made him more handsome when he smiled. It was devilish cruel that men became more striking with age. 

“You know very well we have not,” he answered. 

He pulled her close—too close—and began to twirl her around. The moment was too intimate for mere words. Charlotte felt light and dainty for the first time ever as this man spun her in his arms. She must be dreaming. It was a heady, delicious feeling as her pulse raced and her insides quivered. When the music ceased, they stood there still, retaining the position of the dance as their breathing slowed. Charlotte grew self-conscious as the man studied her. 

“Am I to know your name?” she whispered. 

He took her hand and brought it to his lips, sending shivers through her. 

“Some things are better left unspoken, my lady.”

   
“I loved everything about this story. Every woman needs to meet a man who wants her just the way she is. Despite the struggles and self doubt, despite the familial opposition, despite the outside forces and ever present danger from sinister forces - our dear couple finally triumphs.” 

“Elizabeth Johns writes lovely, intricate Regency tales filled with angst, longing, tragedy and triumph. She does not pander with superfluous and gratuitous sex scenes. Yet her stories are romantic and satisfying. I highly recommend this series and all of Johns' books if you want to be transported and escape this time period to the land of happily ever after. I cannot wait for the next one!”

 
 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
National bestselling author Elizabeth Johns was first an avid reader, though she was a reluctant convert. It was Jane Austen's clever wit and unique turn of phrase that hooked Johns when she was "forced" to read Pride and Prejudice for a school assignment. She began writing when she ran out of her favorite author's books and decided to try her hand at crafting a Regency romance novel. 

Her journey into publishing began with the release of Surrender the Past, book one of the Loring-Abbott Series. Johns makes no pretensions to Austen's wit but hopes readers will perhaps laugh and find some enjoyment in her writing. Johns attributes much of her inspiration to her mother, a retired English teacher. During their last summer together, Johns would sit on the porch swing and read her stories to her mother, who encouraged her to continue writing.

Busy with multiple careers, including a professional job in the medical field, author and mother of small children, Johns squeezes in time for reading whenever possible. 

 

Through the FireMelting the IceWith the WindOut of the DarknessRay of Light: Traditional Regency Romance After the RainSurrender the PastSeasons of ChangeSeeking RedemptionShadows of Doubt
   
   
Giveaway Details --  Ends 7/15/18 
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


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COMING UP SOON ON 'READING, WRITING & STITCH-METIC':
-- Monday, July 2nd: In honor of Independence Day on July 4th in the United States, my Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday feature will be a non-fiction title, 'What is the Declaration of Independence?' Post includes a book spotlight and review.

-- Friday, July 6th: 'Top Ten California Towns in Which to Find Vintage Treasures' article. This list includes some of my favorite towns to visit around Northern and Central California including an assortment of shops and museums.

-- Wednesday, July 11th: 'Dangerous to Know' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight and Excerpt. Tour organized by AJ Publicity.

-- Friday, July 13th: 'Hope of Azure Springs' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight, Excerpt, and Giveaway. Tour organized by JustRead Publicity.
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Wednesday, June 27, 2018

~ BLOG TOUR STOP 'FALLING FOR THE COWGIRL' ~

~ BLOG TOUR STOP ~
--  'FALLING FOR THE COWGIRL'  --
AUTHOR TINA RADCLIFFE
~Post Includes:  Book Spotlight,
Author Bio, Excerpt & Giveaway~

Welcome to my stop on the JustRead Publicity Tour's BLOG TOUR for Falling for the Cowgirl by Tina Radcliffe.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Title: Falling for the Cowgirl
Series: Big Heart Ranch, Book 2
Author: Tina Radcliffe
Publisher: Love Inspired
Release Date: June 19, 2018 (Print) July 1, 2018 (Ebook)
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Western
Links: Goodreads -- Book Bub

She won the job… Can he win her heart?

Hiring Amanda “AJ” McAlester as his assistant at the Big Heart Ranch isn’t foreman Travis Maxwell’s first choice—but his sisters insist she’s perfect for the job. And AJ’s determined to prove she’s just as qualified as any man. But with money on the line, AJ and her innovative ideas could put him at risk of losing everything…including his heart.

EXCERPT:  Link to Excerpt -- Courtesy of the Publisher



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:




Originally from Western, N.Y., Tina Radcliffe left home for a tour of duty with the Army Security Agency stationed in Augsburg, Germany and ended up in Tulsa Oklahoma. While living in Tulsa she spent ten years as a Certified Oncology R.N. Her move to Colorado led to a career as a library cataloger. A freelance writer for over twenty years, Tina is a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist, two-time Carol Award finalist, and a 2014 ACFW Carol Award winner. She currently resides in Arizona where she writes fun, heartwarming romance.
 
Stay up to date on all her releases by signing up for her newsletter HERE. (http://bit.ly/2angfWP)
 
TO CONNECT WITH TINA: website, facebook, twitter, pinterest, instagram, Book Bub 

GIVEAWAY:



Tina has graciously offered (1) winner an awesome Falling for the Cowgirl prize pack that includes:

--An autographed copy of Falling for the Cowgirl
--Corkcicle Canteen Classic Collection-Water Bottle & Thermos----Triple Insulated Shatterproof Stainless Steel, 9 oz, Gloss Pink
--ESVAN Original Floral Tote Bag Shoulder Bag for Gym Hiking Picnic Travel Beach
--$20.00 Amazon Gift Card

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Complete prize open to US mailing addresses only. If international winner, winner will win the gift card only.

ENTER HERE or use the Entry Form below

a Rafflecopter giveaway



Giveaway will begin at midnight June 25, 2018 and last through 11:59 PM on July 4, 2018. Winners will be notified within a week of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Be sure to stop at a stop each day for extra entries!


TOUR SCHEDULE:

For the full tour schedule, click on either of the launch pages below.



*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

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COMING UP SOON ON 'READING, WRITING & STITCH-METIC':
--  Friday, June 29th:  Friday Fiction Feature on Elizabeth Johns's newest Regency romance, 'Moon and Stars'. Post includes a book spotlight, author bio, excerpt, and giveaway. Event organized by I Am A Reader.

-- Monday, July 2nd: In honor of Independence Day on July 4th in the United States, my Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday feature will be a non-fiction title, 'What is the Declaration of Independence?' Post includes a book spotlight and review.

-- Friday, July 6th: 'Top Ten California Towns in Which to Find Vintage Treasures' article. This list includes some of my favorite towns to visit around Northern and Central California including an assortment of shops and museums.

-- Wednesday, July 11th: 'Dangerous to Know' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight and Excerpt. Tour organized by AJ Publicity.

-- Friday, July 13th: 'Hope of Azure Springs' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight, Excerpt, and Giveaway. Tour organized by JustRead Publicity.

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Monday, June 25, 2018

~ BOOK TOUR 'ARISE FROM THE ASHES' ~



~ NEW RELEASE BOOK TOUR ~
-- 'ARISE FROM THE ASHES' --
-An Inspirational, Non-Fiction Anthology 

From Christian Authors
Sharing Their Stories of Hope-

About The Book
Arise from the Ashes, are stories of hope from seven women from all walks of life. These women who have gone through the fire, walked in places that others dare not tread, but women who are not ashamed of their scars and willing to bare it all. They share their journey of going from trials to triumph and pain to purpose. Arise from the Ashes is filled with inspiration, wisdom and life’s lessons from women who have endured personal pain and have come through empowered, encouraged and victorious. Genre: Non-Fiction, Inspiration
 
Meet Paulette: Visionary and Co-Author Chapter Title: Losing To Win Behind her smile is a woman who has learned the real meaning of endurance, faith and tenacity. Bestselling, award winning author, speaker and marketing specialist, Paulette Harper has authored several books, including her award winning novel Secret Places Revealed, and her award-winning inspirational book Completely Whole. Her literary works have been spotlighted in a growing number of publications, including CBN, The Sacramento Observer and Real Life, Real Faith Magazine. As an inspirational speaker, Paulette’s presentations are inspiring, enriching and encouraging. Her ability to share and connect with her audience comes from her own life’s journey and experiences. She lives her life based on her motto: Intentionally Living Life on Purpose. Website


Meet Donna: Chapter Title: Unexpected Life’s Transitions  
Donna Moses's passion is to pen works that will impact the hearts of readers, leading them to Christ. An avid reader, she founded Sistahs in Conversation & Sistahs in Harmony Christian Book Club. She is a retired nurse, graduate from Sacramento Theological Seminary and Bible College, and a member of Progressive Community Church. A Links Incorporated member, Donna is also a recipient of the Susan B. Anthony Award for her community involvement. Donna lives in Northern California with her husband, Raymond. They have four adult children and nine gifted grandchildren.  Facebook
 
  
                        

Meet Cassietta: Chapter Title: Not Forgotten: After the Storm 
Cassietta Jefferson is a contemporary Christian author, book reviewer, and blogger. She is the founder of Virtuous Ink Publishing where she seeks to provide her readers with the best in contemporary Christian literature. She earned her Bachelors of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration from Wayland Baptist University. Cassietta currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada where she lives with her husband of twenty years, retired United States Air Force Master Sergeant Ben Jefferson Jr. 
Facebook

 
Meet Angie:   Chapter Title: God Sees What We Cannot See  
Angie Jones is passionate about prayer and called to build prayer within the local church. Since the late 1980s, she has been involved with prayer ministries through intercessory prayer as a watchman on the wall, corporate prayer, prayer walks, prayer partners, and facilitating prayer meetings and conferences. She wrote a monthly publication “The Prayer Journal” which included articles on prayer, testimonies and prayer activities. As a co-leader of Community Prayer Conference Call connecting local churches in prayer, she leads a team of eighty-plus prayer team members and holds prayer trainings within the local church. An advocate for adoption, Angie lives in Fairfield, CA, and is the mother of three adopted children.  
Facebook
 

Meet Michele:   Chapter Title: Back Down Memory Lane  
Andrea Mills is a published author of several books writing under her pen name, Michele Mills. An inspirational speaker, visionary, and entrepreneur, she is the Founder and CEO of Love In Spite of Women’s Bible Fellowship, where Jesus Christ is Lord. Women’s ministry leader and Bible teacher, in 2014, Andrea launched the 1st Annual Prophetic Women’s Crusade, which was embraced by the mighty presence of the Holy Spirit, manifested through signs and wonders from God in Heaven. Andrea resides in Northern California. The mother of two children--Adrienne, her late daughter, and a son, Andrè. She also has three grandchildren: Charnell, Ronal III, and Chase Benjamin.
Website

 
Meet Sydney:
Chapter Title: Hope Exists
Sydney Dela Torre is creative, passionate, and funny. She has a heart for God that exudes in her writing. Her transparency and vulnerability are on display as she walks her audience through the fragments of her broken life so God may be glorified. Sydney has always been encouraged by others to “share her story.” From after school children’s programs to women and youth groups, her words open the window to her heart. Often witty, Sydney approaches some of life’s toughest challenges with candor, honesty, and an understanding that no problem is too big for God. Personal discoveries, as well as spiritual growth, have proven to be a source of inspiration for her writings. Her works introduce real flawed characters who overcome obstacles through Jesus. Currently penning her first fiction novel, about God’s love and grace breaking down barriers and transforming hearts, she hopes to complete it soon. Sydney and her husband, William, reside in the breathtaking mountains of Arnold, California.  
Facebook
 
Meet Yolando: Chapter Title: Unfailing Love  
Yolando Cooksey is a published devotional author in The Upper Room magazine and was recently published in an anthology, The Short and Sweet of It: When the Right Word is a Short Word. She enjoys writing as an expression of sharing her faith and her journey of developing an intimate, personal love relationship with Jesus Christ. Although raised in a Christian home, Yolando did not discover intimacy with God until after suffering several traumatic events in her life. The experiences God allowed Yolando to go through have been her motivation and passion to mentor teen girls and women to find the true meaning of real, authentic, and unfailing love. Yolando's foundation in Christ has been the guiding light in her writing and making a decision to return to school after retiring in 2015. Yolando is pursuing a master's degree in Social Work with a goal to counsel at-risk youth and children in the foster system. Yolando is a mother, grandmother, friend, and most importantly, a daughter of the Most High God. It is her dream that women truly learn who and whose they are!  
Facebook
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COMING UP SOON ON 'READING, WRITING & STITCH-METIC':
-- Thursday, June 28th: Blog Tour stop for 'Falling for the Cowgirl' by Author Tina Radcliffe. Post includes a book spotlight, excerpt, and giveaway. Tour hosted by JustRead Publicity.

-- Friday, June 29th: Friday Fiction Feature on Elizabeth Johns's newest Regency romance, 'Moon and Stars'. Post includes a book spotlight, author bio, excerpt, and giveaway. Event organized by I Am A Reader.
 
-- Monday, July 2nd: In honor of Independence Day on July 4th in the United States, my Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday feature will be a non-fiction title, 'What is the Declaration of Independence?' Post includes a book spotlight and review.

-- Friday, July 6th: 'Top Ten California Towns in Which to Find Vintage Treasures' article. This list includes some of my favorite towns to visit around Northern and Central California including an assortment of shops and museums.

-- Wednesday, July 11th: 'Dangerous to Know' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight and Excerpt. Tour organized by AJ Publicity.

-- Friday, July 13th: 'Hope of Azure Springs' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight, Excerpt, and Giveaway. Tour organized by JustRead Publicity.

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Sunday, June 24, 2018

~ MMGM HISTORICAL FICTION 'RAYMIE NIGHTINGALE' ~

~ MIDDLE-GRADE HISTORICAL
FICTION FEATURE ~
--  'RAYMIE NIGHTINGALE'  --
AUTHOR KATE DiCAMILLO
~Post Includes:  Book Spotlight,
Author Bio & Book Review~




ABOUT THE BOOK {from Goodreads}:
Raymie Clarke has come to realize that everything, absolutely everything, depends on her. And she has a plan. If Raymie can win the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition, then her father, who left town two days ago with a dental hygienist, will see Raymie's picture in the paper and (maybe) come home. To win, not only does Raymie have to do good deeds and learn how to twirl a baton; she also has to contend with the wispy, frequently fainting Louisiana Elefante, who has a show-business background, and the fiery, stubborn Beverly Tapinski, who’s determined to sabotage the contest. But as the competition approaches, loneliness, loss, and unanswerable questions draw the three girls into an unlikely friendship — and challenge each of them to come to the rescue in unexpected ways.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR {from Goodreads}: 
Kate DiCamillo, the newly named National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature for 2014–2015, says about stories, “When we read together, we connect. Together, we see the world. Together, we see one another.” Born in Philadelphia, the author lives in Minneapolis, where she faithfully writes two pages a day, five days a week.

Kate DiCamillo's own journey is something of a dream come true. After moving to Minnesota from Florida in her twenties, homesickness and a bitter winter helped inspire Because of Winn-Dixie - her first published novel, which, remarkably, became a runaway bestseller and snapped up a Newbery Honor. "After the Newbery committee called me, I spent the whole day walking into walls," she says. "I was stunned. And very, very happy."

Her second novel, The Tiger Rising, went on to become a National Book Award Finalist. Since then, the master storyteller has written for a wide range of ages, including two comical early-chapter-book series - Mercy Watson, which stars a "porcine wonder" with an obsession for buttered toast, and Bink & Gollie, which celebrates the tall and short of a marvelous friendship - as well as a luminous holiday picture book, Great Joy.

Her latest novel, Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures, won the 2014 Newbery Medal. It was released in fall 2013 to great acclaim, including five starred reviews, and was an instant New York Times bestseller. Flora & Ulysses is a laugh-out-loud story filled with eccentric, endearing characters and featuring an exciting new format - a novel interspersed with comic-style graphic sequences and full-page illustrations, all rendered in black and white by up-and-coming artist K. G. Campbell. It was a 2013 Parents' Choice Gold Award Winner and was chosen by Amazon, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, and Common Sense Media as a Best Book of the Year.
 
MY REVIEW:
I was introducted to this award-winning author when I recently read a poignant and encouraging blog post on the Rain City Librarian blog. 
The post is about 'R-E-J-E-C-T-I-O-N-S'. A word all authors, including myself, hesitate to utter aloud for fear of the ugly and unwanted news it will magically attract to our inboxes.

The post mentioned that Kate DiCamillo received 473 -- yes, that's right -- 473 rejections from publishers and literary agents for her debut middle-grade novel, 'Because of Winn-Dixie'. The good news for readers is this novel was eventually published in 2000 by Candlewick Press and has since become a feature film.

NOTE: If you'd like to read the original post on the Rain City Librarian's blog, follow this link: Publishing 101 Post on Rejection

I simply had to read this book written by a resilient author, so I borrowed 'Because of Winn-Dixie' from the public library and read it straight through one hot summer afternoon recently. I enjoyed it for many reasons. The quirky characters and delightful dog, Winn-Dixie, won me over immediately. This led to my wanting to read more of the author's work . . .

I found 'Raymie Nightingale' in the library's online catalog, and when I realized the story was set in 1975, I decided to check it out. {I may have mentioned this before a few times here on 'Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic' -- I adore historical fiction!}

'Raymie Nightingale' is a story of the friendship between three unlikely friends -- Raymie, Louisiana, and Beverly. Set in Florida beginning in June, 1975, the author takes us on several adventures as the three girls make an effort to resolve the issues they are facing in their individual lives.

Louisiana lives with her grandmother because her parents are both deceased. This little family is living in poverty and are food insecure as we say in 2018. Louisiana has many fears and insecurities which reach beyond her hunger, and Raymie and Beverly look after Louisiana and help her in many ways.

Raymie and Beverly are both suffering from broken hearts due to their respective abandonments by their fathers. Raymie's father ran away with his girlfriend just two days before the novel opens. This wound is fresh and tender for Raymie and her mother. Having these new friends seems to give Raymie a purpose. I feel Raymie's friendship with two other hurting souls allowed this character's compassionate, empathetic, kind nature to come to the surface. She seemed to blossom before my eyes.

Beverly finally admits her father is a police officer, in New York. She is mysterious and secretive about why her father lives in New York while she and her mother live in Florida. Beverly is the opposite of Raymie on the exterior. She is brash, sassy, and impatient. She has a mean streak a mile-wide, and she doesn't think before she speaks or acts on many occasions. Beverly has a lot of gumption and will take on challenges the other two girls will not. Deep down, she is not a bad person. She has simply built barriers up around her to keep from being hurt anymore in her young life.

I will not post any spoilers here, but it's easy to see why this book would appeal to middle-grade readers. The themes of friendship, adventure, and a common goal to work toward make this book a winner for readers of all ages!

Highly-recommended to fans of historical fiction, adventure fiction, and summer-themed stories.
Borrowed from the children's section of the local public library.
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COMING UP SOON ON 'READING, WRITING & STITCH-METIC':
-- Tuesday, June 26th: A Book Blast from a collection of non-fiction, personal stories from several Christian authors, 'Arise From the Ashes'. Event hosted by Write Now Literary.

-- Thursday, June 28th: Blog Tour stop for 'Falling for the Cowgirl' by Author Tina Radcliffe. Post includes a book spotlight, excerpt, and giveaway. Tour hosted by JustRead Publicity.

-- Monday, July 2nd: In honor of Independence Day on July 4th in the United States, my Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday feature will be a non-fiction title, 'What is the Declaration of Independence?' Post includes a book spotlight and review. 


-- Friday, July 6th: 'Top Ten California Towns in Which to Find Vintage Treasures' article. This list includes some of my favorite towns to visit around Northern and Central California including an assortment of shops and museums.

-- Wednesday, July 11th: 'Dangerous to Know' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight and Excerpt. Tour organized by AJ Publicity.

-- Friday, July 13th: 'Hope of Azure Springs' Blog Tour. Post includes a Book Spotlight, Excerpt, and Giveaway. Tour organized by JustRead Publicity.

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~ NEW SEWING PATTERN FABRIC FLOWER TOWELS ~

~ NEW SEWING PATTERN FABRIC FLOWER TOWELS ~