Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Momentum Influencers: Gigi and Nate Movie Review and Giveaway

Gigi & Nate is the story of Nate Gibson, a young man whose life is turned upside down after he suffers a near-fatal illness and is left a quadriplegic. Moving forward seems near impossible until he meets his unlikely service animal, Gigi - a curious and intelligent capuchin monkey. Although she is trained to assist Nate with

his basic needs, Gigi helps Nate find what he needs most of all: hope.

I was excited to watch this movie as it is based on a true story. I really like the fact that a Monkey is used as a Service Animal. It is very unique and fun-loving. I watched it along with my 17yr old son and we both enjoyed it immensely. I think the relationship between Gigi and Nate is wonderful and heartwarming. Gigi, the monkey, is adorable and so much fun. The care Gigi has for Nate is amazing. I will admit was taken aback by the language and party scenes in the movie. I plan on watching it again when it hits the Theatre on September 2nd. GOOD MOVIE!

• Go see Gigi & Nate in theaters starting September 2nd!

• Gigi & Nate is a story of hope, of overcoming the

obstacles life throws at us, reveling in the art of faith and perseverance.

• This encouraging and inspirational film is based on a true story!

Buy your tickets TODAY to see GIGI & NATE in theaters starting 9/2! BUY TICKETS HERE

Enter the Giveaway for a chance at a $10 Amazon Gift Card HERE

Many thanks to Roadside Attractions for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: Hunter's Rose by Carole Brown

Book: Hunter’s Rose

Editor: Carole Brown

Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense

Release date: August, 2022

It’s the late 1800s, and Hunter Carson has married the woman of his dreams and settled on the land he bought. He’s never known God or even much about him. But his tender heart can be touched. His wife—the beautiful and exotic Mexican Rosita DeSantis, is totally in love with him—but something is wrong. Just days after their marriage, why is she crying and touchy? Has she fallen out of love with him already? Or is there something far more serious going on with her?

Rosita’s past is haunting her emotionally. She adores her new husband, but she’ll do anything to keep him from knowing what happened in Mexico before she fled the country. And not because she doesn’t trust him, but she’s worried for his life. Her loving family in Mexico came to accept God into their lives through the ministry of a missionary. But can she hold onto her beliefs through the trials and tests she’ll face when Carlos De Leon insists on forcing her to marry him?

After all, the Mexican Lord—Carlos De Leon—cares nothing for God or any man. His only desire is to obtain what he wants and when. He has a plan and will do anything to accomplish it.

And Rosita will do anything to keep him from succeeding.

Click here to get your copy!

I have read a few books by Carole Brown, and I truly enjoy her books. Hunter's Rose by Carole Brown is Book 2 in the Troubles in the West Series. I read Book 1, but this book seems to read well as a Stand Alone book.

The time is the late 1800's and Hunter Carson has just married the woman of his dreams. He is working hard to settle on the land he purchased. His beautiful wife, Rosita DeSantis, seems to be in love with him, but he is worried about her just a few days after the marriage. She doesn't seem herself lately and has been crying a lot. Rosita LOVES Hunter dearly, but she is worried about the safety of Hunter and herself. She fled Mexico recently due to Mexican Lord, Carlos De Leon, trying to force her to marry him. She escaped but she is worried that he will find her and her new husband Hunter. Rosita is a Christian, although Hunter is not. Can Rosita hold on to her faith through the trials of life right now? Will Hunter and Rosita be safe from Carlos De Leon?

WOW, this book was captivating from the very first chapter. Hunter is a kind man who is living his dreams in life. Rosita wants to feel safe in America and believes Hunter will keep her safe. I LOVE the relationship between Hunter and Rosita. The book is filled with Suspense and has many twists and turns. The Storyline is powerful and faith-based. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense Romance books. FANTASTIC BOOK!

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of thirteen full-length, best selling and award winning books (with a novella in an anthology), she loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. She has found that the traveling and ministering has served her well in writing her novels. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

More from Carole

Characters that Walk Off the Page

One of my favorite things when writing a new book, is to create the characters. When I wrote the first book in this series, there were quite a few comments about Hunter and Maria, the cook. Readers wanted to read a book about Hunter—Hunter’s personal story. It was a nice affirmation because I’d already decided that the second book would be about Hunter, his love life and the trouble that created the tension in the book.

Hunter is a fun character. With his father murdered while Hunter was just a child, he very well could have been abandoned to fate. Only another young person’s intervention saved Hunter. He grew up to be a man that was both strong and trustworthy. He’s a bit quick-on-the-trigger (as the saying goes) but he’s also smart, loyal, not a bit stuck on himself, and overwhelmed that a beautiful Mexican girl like Rosita DeSantis could fall in love with him. He has the determination to protect her and the ability to give her pretty much anything she wants—without seeming pompous.

Rosita came from a rich, loving family who adored her, and as an only child was entitled to the family inheritance. Having to abandon that life, she was determined to pursue a different life style even when enduring hardship and fear. Nevertheless, she is a sweet, friendly and a loyal friend to those around her. She knows her own mind, yet is not pushy or obnoxious in her efforts, whether it be love or in scorning the man who insists he wants her back. Rosita is both smart and a real lady.

Carlos De Leon, the villain, on the other hand, is one of those persons who has everything: money, prestige, excellent features and education. Yet he lacks the character to realize that it’s not always possible to have everything you desire. Determined to have what he wants and when, he is not afraid to sacrifice the people who he deems is hindering his quest.

And then, there are the secondary characters: those who support and somehow create interest, not only in themselves but in keeping a reader’s interest in how and when the main characters will respond to them.

Could it be the downright good-looking Jackson, who is quiet and withdrawn, has a story? His support of Hunter, the tell-tell signs of his education, and the absence of any real knowledge of his past encourage the reader to imagine who he really is.

Then there’s Gabrielle Autumn Mayfair, a quiet, rather shy girl who is more of a follower than a leader—until it comes to a man who catches her attention. Her friends worry that she may get hurt, but Gabrielle is more persistent than either of her best friends realize. This blondish-redhead has an endurance that may prove favorable—or it might end in a tragic heartache.

Sully, Old Peete, Nicolas, Susie and Maria—characters that flavor the reading and add some laughter, tension and mixed feelings about their possible hindrance or helpfulness.

Characters—one of the best and most fun parts of a book. I hope you readers will get to know the characters in Hunter’s Rose and love (or hate) them as much as I did when creating the story.

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, August 20 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 20
Texas Book-aholic, August 21
Inklings and notions, August 22
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, August 23
For Him and My Family, August 24
By The Book, August 25 (Author Interview)
deb’s Book Review, August 25
Betti Mace, August 26
Locks, Hooks and Books, August 27
Connie’s History Classroom, August 28
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 29
Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 30 (Author Interview)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 31
Pause for Tales, September 1
Adventures of a Travelers Wife, September 2 (Author Interview)

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/20e0e/hunter-s-rose-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Tuesday, August 30, 2022

JustRead Tours Blog Tour: Escape Route by Tanya Stowe

Escape Route JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Escape Route by Tanya Stowe, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Title: Escape Route

Author: Tanya Stowe

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense

Release Date: August 23, 2022

Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

Exposing a gang’s leader…

is the only way out of danger

While flying above the Texas border, helicopter pilot Tara Jean “TJ” Baskins witnesses a brutal murder. Now a deadly arms-smuggling gang wants her out of the way. To stay alive, TJ must work with border patrol officer Trace Leyton—her old friend and the man who once betrayed her—to catch the ringleader. But when the search leads to Trace’s family, can TJ trust him to save her? From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Redbeard took aim. TJ pushed the control stick of the helicopter down and headed straight for

him. Red Beard didn't ease up or move away. Agent Belter leaned back and pushed his feet into

the front of the helicopter like he was stepping on brakes that weren't there. He yelled

something. TJ ignored him is the helo dipped lower. It was a game of chicken as TJ pointed the

nose of the helo down and Red Beard aimed up. Her family was in danger. She wasn't going to

back down.

Tanya Stowe is a Christian Fiction author with an unexpected edge. She is a Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author who fills her books with the unusual…mysteries and exotic travel, even a murder or two. No matter where Tanya takes you…on a train down a mountain or a suspenseful journey packed with danger…be prepared for the extraordinary.

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

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Escape Route and $25 Amazon gift card. (2) additional winners will receive a print copy of Escape Route.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 29, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 5, 2022. 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. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: Laura's Shadow by Allison Pittman

Book: Laura’s Shadow

Author: Allison Pittman

Genre: Christian/Historical/Romance

Release date: August 1, 2022

Family Secrets Spill One Conversation at a Time

Visit historic American landmarks through the Doors to the Past series. History and today collide in stories full of mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance.

De Smet, South Dakota—1890
Young women growing up in DeSmet live by two rules: don’t go out in a snowstorm and don’t give your heart to Cap Garland. Young Mariah Patterson only managed to obey one. Orphaned and having devoted her youth to scrapping out a life with her brother Charles, Mariah finds herself with no interesting suitors or means of support. Throwing caution to the wind, she seizes an opportunity to lay her feelings at Cap’s feet, even though she knows Cap sees the world through the torch he carries for Laura Ingalls. Mariah is certain her love for Cap will be strong enough to break both bonds, and she’s willing to risk everything to prove it.

De Smet, South Dakota—1974
Trixie Gowan is the fourth generation of living Gowan women residing in the sprawling farmhouse on the outskirts of De Smet. Well, former resident. She’s recently moved to Minneapolis, where she writes ads for a neighborhood paper edited by Ron Tumble. She might live and work in the city, but her co-workers still call her Prairie Girl. Thus the inspiration for her comic strip—“Lost Laura”—in which a bespectacled girl in a calico dress tries to make her way in the city. The name is a quiet rebellion having grown up in a household where she’d been forbidden to mention the name, Laura Ingalls. But when her great-grandmother Mariah’s declining health brings Trixie home for a visit, two things might just keep her there: the bedside manner of Dr. Campbell Carter and the family secret that seems to be spilling from GG’s lips one conversation at a time.

Click here to get your copy!

Laura's Shadow by Allison Pittman is a Historical Fiction with a Dual-Time Spilt. It is Book 9 in the Doors to the Past series published by Barbour Books with varying authors for the books. I have been reading through the series and enjoying it very much. I have never read a book by Allison Pittman, so I was excited to read this book.

The Setting for this book was De Smet, South Dakota. The Dual timeline included 1890 and 1974. Mariah Patterson was someone who had gone through a lot in her life and was just looking for someone to love her. She allowed herself to succumb to Cap Garland, even though he has told her he doesn't love her. Trixie Gowan, whose Great-Grandmother is Mariah, goes back home to De Smet to take care of her Great Grandmother as her health worsens. Trixie isn't happy being back home but discovers Dr. Campbell Carter who is quite charming. Also, Great Grandmother keeps revealing Family Secrets. Will Trixie stay home and learn more about the past of the Family History? What happens between Trixie and Dr. Campbell Carter?

have become a fan of the Dual Time Spilt novels within the last year and this one did not disappoint. I will say the book started out slow, but once it got to the 3rd chapter the storyline picked up a bit. Young Mariah Patterson went against Town rules and had a quick relationship with Cap Garland. She really wanted to prove something from this relationship. Trixie Gowan is one of the first Gowan women to become more independent and is an aspiring cartoonist for a Minnesota Newspaper. I really enjoyed the dual Time Spilt story in this book and the Family Secrets that came from the storyline. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy Christian Fiction! GREAT BOOK!

Allison Pittman is the author of more than a dozen critically acclaimed novels and a four-time Christy finalist—twice for her Sister Wife series, once for All for a Story from her take on the Roaring Twenties and most recently for the critically acclaimed The Seamstress which takes a cameo character from the Dickens’ classic A Tale of Two Cities and flourishes her to life amidst the French Revolution. She lives in San Antonio, Texas, blissfully sharing an empty nest with her husband, Mike. Connect with her on Facebook (Allison Pittman Author), Twitter (@allisonkpittman) or her website, allisonkpittman.com.

More from Allison

I can credit Laura Ingalls Wilder for just about every aspect of my identity. I’m a reader because I read her books over and over and over again, checking them out from my little elementary school library. I can still see them—last bookcase, bottom shelf. During the summer, I checked them out from the Bookmobile, and one magical Christmas, I received my own set. The well-worn, yellow paperbacks have a place of honor in my office: top shelf, center stage. It was amazing to my eight-year-old self that I could pick up Little House in the Big Woods, skip the dull parts, and jump straight to These Happy Golden Years in a single afternoon.

Looking at Laura’s writing now (as I often do), I realize I spent my childhood absorbing the art of telling a story. Her books masterfully string meaningful vignettes within an over-arching conflict. She creates stories-within-a-story-within-a-story whenever Pa launches into a tall tale, and minor characters come to life no matter how brief their appearance. (Aunt Docia, anyone?)

When I first came up with the concept of writing a story set in the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I knew I couldn’t bring Laura herself in as a character. There’s a sacredness to her story, and I wouldn’t dream of inserting myself into the cannon of her pages. But—I thought—surely she had peers who grew up alongside her, classmates who also hated Miss Wilder, young men who might have set their own cap for her, townsfolk who remembered the vibrant young woman with the button-brown eyes and dark curls. And then I pondered further: maybe there was another side to Laura—a side that she kept from the romanticized ideal skipping through the pages of her books. My first thought was to create a fictional De Smet town girl, but then…

In researching and reading Pioneer Girl, The Annotated Autobiography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I came across a bit of information that brought the story to life for me. In These Happy Golden Years, Laura teaches her first class: five students, two families. And while the “Brewster” children are documented in other sources, the Harrison children are not. There are no census records, land deeds, or any official documents to support the identity of Charles and Martha as they are depicted in the novel. And so, it clicked. If Laura could fictionalize these people, well, then, so could I. Thus Martha Harrison was lifted from those pages, renamed Mariah, and given a new life and a new story in mine.

Writing Laura’s Shadow allowed me to indulge in a few favorite directions. First, I’m fascinated with the idea of extreme longevity (showcased in my novel All for a Song), and creating a character whose lifespan stretches from homesteading to disco was delightful. My Mariah chafes at the romanticized depiction of pioneer life, telling us in her old age that it was really more of a daily struggle for survival. I also enjoyed exploring the family dynamic of four generations of women and how each generation faced the same battles and fought them so, so differently. Finally—and this is what truly speaks to my fourth-grade self…

You know that Elton John song, “Your Song” with the lyrics, “I hope you don’t mind that I put down in words…” Well, I got to put down in words my lifelong crush on Cap Garland. Sure, Almonzo is great and everything, but I always thought Cap was more exciting. More fun. More…more. Bringing him to life in this book set my old heart racing. My research for this novel took me to De Smet, and to his gravesite, where I spoke this story to his stone. I like to think he’d approve, and I hope all of the Laura fans will join me in this tale and let their imaginations run wild.

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 30

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , August 31

Texas Book-aholic, August 31

Genesis 5020, September 1

Inklings and notions, September 1

The Avid Reader, September 2

For Him and My Family, September 2

deb’s Book Review, September 3

Simple Harvest Reads, September 3 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 4

Blogging With Carol, September 4

Betti Mace, September 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 5

Blossoms and Blessings, September 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 6

lakesidelivingsite, September 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 7

Connie’s History Classroom, September 8

Mary Hake, September 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 9

Through the Fire Blogs, September 9

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 10

Bigreadersite, September 11

Pause for Tales, September 11

For the Love of Literature, September 12

Labor Not in Vain, September 12

Remembrancy, September 13

To Everything There Is A Season, September 13

To celebrate her tour, Allison is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon E-gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/210cb/laura-s-shadow-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Monday, August 29, 2022

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: On Heaven's Doorstep by Andrea Jo Rodgers

Book: On Heaven’s Doorstep

Author: Andrea Jo Rodgers

Genre: Christian Inspirational

Release date: May 1, 2018

In Life or Death, There’s Only One Guarantee—God Will Be There

Medical emergencies are among life’s most unexpected and terrifying realities. But isn’t it reassuring in times of crisis that you can find hope and comfort in the hands of a loving God?

Encounter heart-stopping drama in these real-life stories of everyday people like you who found themselves on heaven’s doorstep—fully dependent on the skilled and courageous efforts of first responders and on the mercy of God.

As you read these firsthand accounts of perilous situations with uncertain outcomes, you will experience a full spectrum of emotions, from tender heartache to tremendous joy. Through it all, you will witness God’s amazing love and care for His children, both for those who are brought back from the edge and for those He welcomes into eternal fellowship with Him.

Be inspired as you go on call with veteran EMT Andrea Jo Rodgers and other brave professionals dedicated to helping when humanity is at its most frail.

Click here to get your copy!

On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder by Andrea Jo Rodgers is a Christian Inspirational book. I have never any books by Andrea Jo Rodgers and also the True Stories theme really intrigued me.

Andrea Jo Rodgers is an EMT and has seen many miracles happen during times of Crisis. The book is filled with so many stories of survivors and those who unfortunately did not make it. Andrea has such a talent for writing and it shows in the stories. I also LOVE how Andrea shares her faith in the book. She acknowledges that many times the survivors were so close to death, but God gave them a miracle and a second chance. The emotions experienced while reading this book were all over with laughter, smiles and also heartbreak. True Stories from a Hard Working EMT who has experience so much during her career! I LOVE how compassionate and kind EMT Andrea is. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys True Stories and Inspirational Stories! FANTASTIC BOOK!

Andrea Jo Rodgers holds a clinical doctorate in physical therapy and has worked as a physical therapist for over 25 years. She has served as a volunteer emergency medical technician on her town’s rescue squad for over 30 years and has responded to more than 9,000 first aid and fire calls. She lives on the east coast with her husband, two children, and two fur babies. At Heaven’s Edge, On Heaven’s Doorstep, and Help from Heaven include true inspirational stories based on her experiences as a volunteer EMT. Heaven-Sent Miracles and Rescues: True Stories from a First Responder will be released November 1, 2022. Her middle grade adventure novels, Saving Mount Rushmore and Saving the Statue of Liberty are fun yet educational books that teach faith, courage, patriotism, and friendship. Visit Andrea Jo at www.andreajorodgers.com.

More from Andrea Jo

Miracles Exist

Miracles exist. They surround us. Just open your heart and mind to the presence of God to observe them. How do I know miracles exist? I’ve witnessed them.

I’ve been a volunteer emergency medical technician on my local first aid squad for 35 years. I joined in high school, and I’ve been blessed to be answering calls ever since. During my time with the squad, I’ve answered over 9,000 first aid and fire calls. I’ve witnessed miracles and answered prayers. I’ve shared in some people’s faith-filled last minutes on earth. I relate some of these experiences in my books, At Heaven’s Edge, On Heaven’s Doorstep, and Help from Heaven. My fourth book, Heaven-Sent Miracles and Rescues, will be released November 1, 2022.

I recently had the honor of being a guest on two episodes of “At Home with Jim and Joy” on EWTN. During the shows, I shared stories of faith and miraculous rescues that I’ve witnessed on emergency calls. If you’d like to hear about them, you can watch the episodes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqylPNYpsbI (Part 1) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diedm4TelrM (Part 2).

Rescue personnel are with people and their families during times of unimaginable crises. I’ve seen firsthand how God’s handiwork puts people in the right place at the right time to create miracles. Sometimes, God miraculously rescues people. Other times, He leads them home to Him. As volunteer ETMs, we are blessed to help others in their time of need.

Sometimes, we take our health for granted. People don’t normally think about EMS until they need their services. First responders are in the unique position of being able to serve others when they need help. Being a volunteer EMT allows me to act out my faith by being a Good Samaritan.

Some question if miracles exist anymore. They do. Have faith and place your trust in God.