Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch

Book: The Garden Girls

Author: Jessica R. Patch

Genre: Thriller

Release date: April 23, 2024

On a remote Outer Banks island, a serial killer collects his prized specimens. And to stop him, an FBI agent must confront his own twisted past.

FBI agent Tiberius Granger has seen his share of darkness. But a new case sets him on edge. It’s not just the macabre way both victims—found posed in front of lighthouses—are tattooed with flowers that match their names. There’s also the unsettling connection to the woman Ty once loved and to the shadowy cult they both risked everything to escape.

Bexley Hemmingway’s sister has gone missing, and she’ll do anything to find her—including teaming up with Ty. That may prove a mistake, and not just because Ty doesn’t know he’s the father of her teenaged son. It seems the killer is taunting Ty, drawing everyone close to him into deeper danger.

As the slashing winds and rain of a deadly hurricane approach the coast of North Carolina, the search leads Ty and Bex to an island that hides a grisly secret. But in his quest for the truth, Ty has ignored the fact that this time, he’s not just the hunter. Every move has been orchestrated by a killer into a perfect storm of terror, and they will need all their skills to survive…

 

Click here to get your copy!

Christian Thrillers are not a genre I normally read, but the synopsis of this book looked interesting. The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch is Book 3 in the Strange Crimes Unit: South Division. I have not read the first 2 books in this series, although I am planning on reading them soon.

The setting of the book is the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The 2 main characters are Tiberius Granger and Bexley Hemmingway.(Ty and Bex). Ty is an FBI Agent and he and other agents have been trying to capture a Serial Killer. Ty and Bex have a past relationship and they both escaped a cult. Ty agrees to help Bex find her missing sister. Danger lurks for Ty and Bex as they search for her sister and it seems the danger is targeted towards Ty. The search leads them to many places, including an island that holds secrets. Will the Serial Killer be caught and identified? Will they locate Bex's sister? Will there be a rekindling of their past relationship?

WOW, this book really was an intense read. I am very glad that I read it during the night and not right before bed. The storyline of a Serial Killer and they missing sister had many dangers. Ty is a GREAT character in the book. It seems his past is hindering the investigation and search, but he remains strong and aware. Bex has many secrets she is hiding. I don't want to give too many spoilers as I think everyone should REALLY read this book. I have to say this is the first book that I have read by Jessica R. Patch, but I can guarentee is won't be the last. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Thriller and Mystery with Faith and Romance. FABULOUS BOOK!

 

Jessica R. Patch is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author known for her dry wit, signatures twists, and complex characters. She loves reading true crime books, discussing cold cases over chips and salsa with her girlfriends, and hunting down serial killers in her romantic suspense novels and psychological thrillers.

Jessica loves to encourage and inspire people to forward living devotionals through her monthly email newsletter. You’re invited to join the Patched In community at her website: www.jessicarpatch.com and receive a FREE short thriller, Nobody Has to Know.

She resides in the Memphis area with her husband and her spoiled tri-color Shetland Sheepdog since becoming empty nesters. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.

More from Jessica

Does Dark Subject Matter Belong in Inspirational Thrillers?

Spoil alert! Yes.

I am often asked why I write thrillers with darker subject matter and should I? My answer is easy and it’s biblical.

In the Bible, you’ll find all sorts of twisted, dark subject matter. Simply read the book of Judges. God didn’t sanitize the Bible or the people, which include sexual immorality, murder, gruesome violence against women and even cannibalism and child sacrifice (you won’t find child sacrifice in my books, so rest assured). He didn’t approve of these things nor did He condone them, but He also didn’t edit it out for easy reading pleasure. It was important to reveal the dark human condition and what happens apart from God; many heinous things were perpetrated by God’s people as they edged away from their faith into disobedience.

Reading this darker subject matter is hopeful because it reminds us of who we, too, can become apart from God actively in our lives and that God can still accomplish His redemptive purposes in the midst of that darkness. Light shines and is a beacon of hope. Of salvation.

So I don’t shy away from the underbelly of humanity whether it’s through an unbeliever or a believer who has run off the rails and needs brought to repentance and restoration. Light always shines in my books—God rescues, redeems, reconciles and redirects. I’m willing to go there in my stories because I know that it doesn’t stay dark. It doesn’t stay hopeless because we are never without hope.

In The Garden Girls, I wanted to explore that darkness but not with pointy horns and pitchforks. I think we all run from blatant evil that isn’t hiding or masking itself. But what about when evil masquerades as an angel of light? What about when it’s charming, smells good, offers pleasure, and seems harmless? Like a shiny lure that is attractive but when bitten, hooks and binds the unsuspecting victim. Biblical principles and truths weave through the story and in at the heart, it’s a redemptive story. One that takes hurricane force to bring a man to Truth, and choice to bow his heart and yield to sacrificial love.

Book Looks by Lisa, September 5

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 6

Inspired by Fiction, September 7

Stories By Gina, September 8 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 8

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 9

Texas Book-aholic, September 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 12

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 13

Simple Harvest Reads, September 14 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Blogging With Carol , September 15

For Him and My Family, September 16

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, September 16

Holly’s Book Corner, September 17

Just Your Average reviews, September 18

To celebrate her tour, Jessica is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of Her Darkest Secret, a paperback copy of A Cry in the Dark and a $35 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5432

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: The Garden Girls by Jessica R. Patch

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JustRead Tours Blog Tour: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Title: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse
Author: Kate Tompkins
Publisher: ‎ The Matthewsburg Manse
Release Date: October 26, 2023
Genre: Short stories/Poetry, Christian fiction, general fiction, rural fiction, wholesome fiction

When city girl Viv's husband Mark accepts his first pastoral charge in rural Matthewsburg, she wonders what to expect, and what will be expected of her. This collection of connected fiction stories, some humorous, some suspenseful, some even romantic, explores Viv's new life as she tries to find her place in the community while dealing with local gossip, old rivalries, suspected murder, sabotaged car shows, and more. Who says life in a small town is boring? 

"This book entertains us with our own humanity, we laugh at human foibles, nod our heads in the mutual pains of life's adventures. Interspersed are poems expressing poignant moments. These provide a place to rest, ponder and even smile before we are once again taken on the life journey of being a spouse in a small town parish. I found myself laughing out loud on occasion. This book is a wonderful read and leaves us with the feeling that life is good." - Nita Kotiuga, retired pastor, Director of Spiritual Formation at Bakke Graduate University.  

Christian Fiction books are a favorite genre of mine to read. Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins is the latest book in this genre that I have read. 

I have to say this book is unique and very interesting. I really LOVE that the book is a mix of Short Stories, Poetry and more. Each chapter tells a story of Small Town Pastors and their wives. Vivi is the main character and storyteller for this book. Reading the book from Vivi's viewpoint really made the book interesting. Vivi is the new person in town but she quickly makes friends. All of the characters in the book are so wonderful. The book is filled with many different stories: some funny, some mysterious, many fun loving. I LOVE visiting Small Towns and I truly felt I was there in Matthewsburg in the midst of the stories. I enjoyed this short and easy to read book! GREAT BOOK!

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

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Kate Tompkins lives in Montreal’s West Island, where she shares a small house and a big backyard with her husband and the latest in a series of very spoiled cats. She writes short stories, poetry (yes, the non-literary, rhyming kind), and the occasional essay. When not hanging out with her church’s writing group or getting lost down an internet rabbit hole, she can be found trying out recipes from old cookbooks for her cooking blog, Kate’s Virtual Kitchen, or outside keeping the flowerbeds in order.

Connect with Kate by visiting katetompkinsbooks.ca to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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(1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 11, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 18, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Tours Blog Tour: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: Astounding Truths of the Bible by Annie Weber

Book: Astounding Truths of the Bible

Author: Annie Weber

Genre: Christian Non-Fiction

Release date: November 6, 2023

Discover a transformative journey through the scriptures with Annie Weber’s captivating book, “Astounding Truths of the Bible.” Whether you’re a newcomer to the pages of the Bible or have grown up immersed in its teachings, Annie Weber’s insightful exploration will inspire your quest to unravel the profound truths that lie within.

Annie’s refreshing approach combines a love for wordplay, nods to pop culture, humor, and personal anecdotes to illuminate the teachings of Jesus and His character. These devotions, brimming with wit and authenticity, offer a unique lens through which to understand the heart of God’s message.

For those who find the Bible’s depth intimidating, this book provides a firm foundation for your journey toward understanding God’s love and His purpose for His people. Annie’s down-to-earth style serves as a bridge, connecting you to the richness of scripture. Through her words, she presents 100 Astounding Truths that seamlessly blend timeless wisdom with a modern outlook, helping you grasp the enduring relevance of God’s Word.

Prepare to be uplifted, enlightened, and empowered in your faith. “Astounding Truths of the Bible” not only demystifies scripture but also kindles a passion for exploring its depths, reinforcing your belief in the life-changing power of the Gospel.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Christian Non-Fiction books are always so encouraging to me. I really LOVE books that help guide me in my faith. Astounding Truths of the Bible: A Bite-Sized Approach to Understanding the World's Bestselling Book by Annie Weber is this genre that I have read. 

I know so many people and Christians who have trouble understanding the Bible as it is written. Annie Weber has taken 100 Scripture references and explained them in a way that helps it easier to understand the Bible. The book is in a easy to read format and each "Truth" has it owns chapter. Each Chapter begins with a Scripture, a short story that goes with the Scripture and a prayer. 

I think my favorite truth was Truth 4: God is Sovereign Over Our Circumstances. I LOVE how she uses the song by Carrie Underwood "Jesus Take the Wheel". I literally had a Jesus "took" the Wheel experience earlier this year. I had a Seizure at the Wheel and the miracle is that were no injuries nor did I hit someone. I truly believe what the author says about God is in control even when we don't know how or why. God has shown me some major changes through this situation and I have been able to trust him throughout. I am unable to drive until further notice, but he has provided help getting me places(husband, son and Church Family). I have had medical tests and answers. God truly is in control and sovereign. 

I am so glad that I took the opportunity to read this book. I definetly will be keeping this close by and going over it again and again. It would make a great devotional, a great gift for anyone needing encouragement. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone needing help understanding the Bible in an easier way! GREAT BOOK!

Author Annie Weber is known for her bold and uncompromising approach to sharing God’s Word. She lives with a keen awareness of how the Truth of Scripture has led her to put her faith in Christ. Annie is a wellness enthusiast, adventure seeker, wife to Bryan, and mom to Lucy, Luke, Lily, & Levi. She enjoys beach time, fitness, photography, snorkeling, hosting parties, making people laugh, and exercising her social skills.

 

More from Annie

My passion and joy are found in helping people better understand the Bible, in bite-sized Truths. It was a clear calling from the Lord to write Astounding Truths of the Bible because I am well acquainted with my reader. I wrote to the gal who is not familiar with the Bible, but has a desire to understand God and His plan for His people.

 

At 28 years old, God redirected my path in a beautiful way. I was a new mom, home with a baby and found myself with some extra time on my hands due to the fact that I had a disciplined little girl who decided on a regular nap schedule. While little Lucy slept, I began devouring the Bible. I was so impressed that one book could include such amazing wisdom for life. I had never read the Bible before that time. That was 16 years ago, and since then the Lord has allowed me to use my gifting and talents to help explain the Bible using humor, quirky personal anecdotes, and my love of wordplay to help illustrate the teachings of God and His character.

Godly Book Reviews, August 30

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 31

Inspired by fiction, September 1

Fiction Book Lover, September 2 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, September 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 3

Texas Book-aholic, September 4

Guild Master, September 5 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 6

Older & Smarter?, September 7

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 8

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, September 9 (Author Interview)

Because I said so – adventures in parenting, September 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 10

Lots of Helpers, September 11

Cover Lover Book Review, September 12

To celebrate her tour, Annie is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5428

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: Astounding Truths of the Bible by Annie Weber

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: Justice Delayed by Sarah Hamaker

 

 

Book: Justice Delayed

Author: Sarah Hamaker

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: May 15, 2024

Journalist Brogan Gilmore had been a rising star when an unethical shortcut on a story leads to his fall from grace. A chance encounter with convicted murderer Melender Harman a few months after her release from prison provides Brogan with a chance for career redemption—if he can land an interview with her.

After serving her 17-year sentence, Melender has one objective: To uncover the truth about what happened to her cousin the night the toddler disappeared. When Brogan pursues her for an exclusive story, she reluctantly agrees if he’ll help her reexamine the original investigation into Jesse’s presumed kidnapping and murder.

While re-investigating the case, Brogan struggles to keep his objectivity as he begins to believe Melender is innocent of the crime—and starts to envision a possible future together. Then a shocking discovery throws their relationship—and investigation—into turmoil.

As Brogan and Melender come closer to solving what happened to Jesse, will their budding relationship survive the truth?

 

Click here to get your copy!

I have come to truly enjoy Christian Romance Suspense novels. Justice Delayed by Sarah Hamaker is Book 1 in The Seeking Justice series.  I have become very familiar with Sarah Hamaker over the last couple of years and I was excited to see a new series. 

WOW, I was reeled into the book from the very first pages and could not put it down. Brogan Gilmore is trying to recover his Journalism career when he meets Melender Harman. Melender was relased from jail a few months prior after serving 17yrs. Brogan wants to tell Melender's story of possibly being innocent of the crime that she served for, murder of a toddler. Melender really wants to know the truth about what happened to her toddler cousin and who really committed the crime. I really LOVE how the author brings the 2 together to help one another with their struggles in life. Brogan really wants to believe she is innocent of the murder charges and wants to get the story right. Danger comes to the pair as they start to uncover some things that others don't want them to find out. I really LOVE how Brogan and Melender's relationship grew throughout the book. So much suspense and romance throughout the storyline. The Twist and Turns in this book are soo exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance Suspense. GREAT BOOK!

An award-winning and best-selling author of inspirational romantic suspense, Sarah Hamaker loves writing books “where the hero and heroine fall in love while running for their lives.” She’s an AWSA certified writer and speaker coach, and podcaster of “The Romantic Side of Suspense.” Sarah lives in Virginia with her husband, four children and three cats.

 

 

More from Sarah

When Stories Teach Us Valuable Lessons

As a rather shy child, books became both my friends and teachers. While I had a few close friends, I spent hours of my childhood and teen years reading a plethora of books. I visited far away places and long ago times. I met famous people and viewed historical events. I solved my share of mysteries and wept with the characters over losses. I fell in love with heroes and rooted for heroines to save the day.

Researchers have discovered that literary fiction can improve your capacity to understand what others are thinking and feeling. Literary fiction also teaches us about social behavior, including how to view the world through other people’s eyes. In other words, reading fiction helps us develop empathy as well as allows us to experience the ups and downs of someone else’s life and thus become more able to handle similar situations in our own lives.

While I didn’t set out to write Justice Delayed with this research in mind, early reviews of the book have touched on that theme. For example, one reader said, “One of my favorite quotes is when [Melender, my heroine] defends her action of true forgiveness to [Brogan, my hero], ‘It was for my good and His eternal glory that I went to prison for a crime I didn’t commit. That didn’t mean I gave up trying to find justice in this world-it meant I didn’t despair when justice didn’t come.’ Wow! What a lesson in forgiveness and letting go of bitterness which in turn provided a peace that cannot be matched. She never allowed bitterness to take hold of her heart.”

Another reviewer said this: “Greed, politics and outright evil are a part of story, but the truth and goodness shine through it all as the walls start crumbling down, and you learn what truly happened that night. This was one of the best inspirational suspense books that I have read in quite some time. It left an impression on me, even if the message came from a fictional character.”

And another pointed this out: “Not only did Melender teach those around her how to forgive, but Melender taught me that lesson at well.”

While I had written Justice Delayed five years ago, I recently finished reading the late Tim Keller’s last book, Forgive, which touched on themes I explore in my book. Today, we so often ignore forgiveness as being too hard, too messy to offer and much too difficult to receive. Melender’s story is one example of how you can extend forgiveness even when it’s not been requested and to live a life of forgiveness in extremely arduous circumstances. Keller’s book has challenged me in many ways to forgive more without strings attached.

What have you learned from a book recently?

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 4

Inspired by Fiction, September 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 5

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 6

Texas Book-aholic, September 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 10

For Him and My Family, September 11

lakesidelivingsite, September 12

Holly’s Book Corner, September 13

Pause for Tales, September 14

Cover Lover Book Review, September 15

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, September 15

Lights in a Dark World, September 16

Stories By Gina, September 17 (Author Interview)

To celebrate her tour, Sarah is giving away the grand prize package of a $75 Amazon Gift Card, a print copy of Justice Delayed, and the following Justice Delayed-themed swag: Canvas Tote, Notebook and pen, Drink Coaster, Bookmark, and Sticker!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5431

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: Justice Delayed by Sarah Hamaker

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JustRead Tours Blog Tour: Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Title: Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter 

Series: Stone River Ranch #3 

Author: Lisa Jordan 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: August 20, 2024 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

She’s left her old life behind

…only to find a new love waiting 

After a broken engagement, Callie Morgan decides to move to Aspen Ridge, Colorado, to fix up her late grandmother’s gift shop. But the shop is in bad shape and Callie runs out of money faster than expected. Old childhood friend and single dad Wyatt Stone comes to the rescue, offering her a job at his family’s ranch, Stone River Ranch. While their friendship is rekindled, will Callie ever risk loving again…even as Wyatt’s little girl is already stealing her heart?

I really enjoy the books from the LOVE Inspired brand. Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan is the most recent book I have read.  It is Book 3 in the Stone River Ranch Series. I have been looking forward to this release as I really enjoyed Book 2. 

WOW, the storyline grabbed my heart and emotions from the very beginning. Callie Morgan has come "home" to Aspen Ridge, Co to keep a promise to her recently deceased Grandmother. Callie is determined to reopen her Grandma's shop and to get a refresh on life. She needs to come up funding to do the work on the shop and in steps Wyatt Stone, a childhood friend and widower with a 3yr old daughter. Callie begins to work for Wyatt and they begin to share their past struggles in recent years. They realize they have so much in common and they give support to one another. They also are not sure if they are ready for a relationship. Callie has grown close to Wyatt's daughter, Mia and Wyatt sees the bond between them. I really LOVE how strong Wyatt is in his faith and Callie also sees it and begins to allow her heart to open to a relationship with Wyatt. The book is one about Family, Second Chances and Faith . I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance. WONDERFUL BOOK!

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books from this Series:

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Heart, home, and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements comes naturally. Represented by Cynthia Ruchti of Books & Such Literary Management, Lisa is an award-winning, PW bestselling author for Harlequin’s Love Inspired, writing contemporary Christian romance that promises hope and happily ever after. Additionally, she is an author and the line director for Hometown Hearts, Sunrise Publishing's contemporary romance line. She is the operations manager for Novel Academy, an online writing academy powered by My Book Therapy. Happily married to her own real-life hero for thirty-five years, Lisa and her husband have two grown sons and two rascally rescue dogs. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys quality family time, being creative with friends, or getting lost in a good book.

Connect with Lisa by visiting  lisajordanbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter and a basket of bookish goodies, such as socks, a mug, a bookmark, and the winner's choice of t-shirt or tote bag!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 10, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 17, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. International prize ebook and egift card. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Tours Blog Tour: Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan

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