Saturday, September 14, 2024

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson

Book: Tracking Tilly

Author: Janice Thompson

Genre: Mystery/Christian Fiction

Release Date: August 2024

Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block?

Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.

The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.

Click here to get your copy!

I really enjoy Christian Cozy Mystery stories. Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson is the latest book in this genre that I have read. It is Book 1 in the Little Red Truck Mysteries series.

WOW, this sure is a sweet Cozy Mystery that had me captivated from the first few pages. Raelyn Hadley is determined to win her Grandfather's old Red Truck, Tilly, back at Auction. Her family wants to honor him when they open their Antique store by displaying that outside. There are many memories attached to the truck and her grandfather sacrificed it many years ago to help the family. I was sad for Raelyn when the Truck was stolen from the Auction Yard after she won the Bidding. Raelyn decides to figure out who stole it and starts the hunt for the Truck. I really LOVE that she turns into a "detective" of sorts. The book is a peak at the Hadley family and Raelyn is the main character of this book. I absolutely LOVE Vintage Antiques and Small Town feel, so that is what attracted me to read this book. I am VERY glad I read this book as it truly is a sweet mystery story. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Cozy Mysterys and Small Town family life. GREAT BOOK!

Janice Thompson hails from south Texas. She is a Christian author and mother of four grown daughters. Janice has written over forty books.

More from Janice

Welcome to Mabank, Y’all!

Some stories are written out of a passion for the characters. Others are written out of an idea for a unique and engaging plot. And some—like my new book, Tracking Tilly—are written out of pure love and devotion for a location.

We writers love to set our books in unique places. And because I’m a Texas gal, I usually set my stories in South Texas, often along the Gulf Coast. This time, however, I wanted to take a trek a little farther north, to the town of Mabank Texas.

Don’t know where Mabank is? No worries! It’s right next to Gunbarrel City, which is nestled next to Cedar Creek Reservoir, a gorgeous body of water that provides excellent fishing, boating, and camping. This neck of the woods is known as East Texas territory, and it’s unique from where I live in the Houston area—both in terrain and culture.

My familiarity with this region goes back to the early 1980s, when my mother remarried and moved to a 63-acre ranch with my step-dad. Though I hailed from Texas, I’d never been to this particular region. Turns out, I’d been missing out on a lot! Picture beautiful ranch-lands, perfect for raising horses, cows, goats, and chickens. Now imagine small-town churches, restaurants, and specialty shops. Add to that the beauty of a fabulous lake, one dotted with fishing boats, kayaks, and swimmer. Talk about beautiful. . .and perfect for a book series filled with the unexpected twists and turns found in most cozy mysteries.

Tracking Tilly is the first in a three-book series from Barbour called The Little Red Truck series. I used the ranch as the setting for my main character (RaeLyn Hadley) to live. And boy, does the story ever explore those beautiful Texas backdrops, all through her eyes! Tracking Tilly is set in the springtime, when bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes are in full bloom. I didn’t even have to research to know what those look like!

I loved setting this fun cozy mystery in mama’s hometown, and not just for nostalgic reasons. Sure, a quaint small town and a rustic 63-acre ranch provide the perfect backdrop for a mystery, but even more than that, I loved getting to know RaeLyn and her family. Plunking them down in my mama’s house allowed me to re-visit the location in my own imagination and to envision how RaeLyn would see it.

My mom passed away in 2017 and I rarely get back to Mabank and Gunbarrel City these days. But once I decided to set Tracking Tilly in this area I knew I had to make one more trip. So, I asked a close friend to join me and we made a day trip out of it. Over the river and through the woods, to my mama’s old house we went.

And while we were there, we drove by her church (First Baptist, Mabank). Oh, and we had to stop off at one of her favorite restaurants. Mostly, though, I wanted to see the lake. As I got out of my car at the water’s edge I was flooded with memories of driving over that lake on my way to visit mom when my kids were little. We spent nearly every holiday on that beautiful property.

As you read Tracking Tilly, I hope you find yourself captivated by the setting, but I also hope you see a little of yourself in RaeLyn. She’s an adventurous, inquisitive gal, loaded with zeal for life and a passion for her family. More than anything, I hope you discover a renewed sense of purpose in your own family’s story.

Thanks for reading, y’all!

Lighthouse Academy, September 6
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 7
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 8
Pause for Tales, September 9
Texas Book-aholic, September 9
The Avid Reader, September 10
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , September 11
Locks, Hooks and Books, September 12
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 13
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 14
Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 14
Lily’s Corner, September 15
She Lives To Read, September 15
Devoted To Hope, September 16
Lights in a Dark World, September 16
Book Looks by Lisa, September 17
Labor Not in Vain, September 18
Stories By Gina, September 19 (Author Interview)
Holly’s Book Corner, September 19

To celebrate her tour, Janice is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-Gift card and 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/00adcf5433

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Friday, September 13, 2024

Momentum Influencers Blog Tour: God's Not Dead In God We Trust Movie

In a time of profound political, civil, and spiritual turmoil, Reverend David Hill grapples with a crucial question: Does God still have a place in politics? Following the unexpected death of a favored congressional incumbent, David feels compelled to enter the race, challenging the increasing efforts to remove religious influence from public policy. Facing off against state senator Peter Kane, a formidable opponent determined to create greater division by pushing religion out of the public square, David must navigate the treacherous waters of modern politics, where his faith, optimism, and principles are put to the ultimate test. As he confronts adversaries from his past and faces relentless scrutiny, David’s campaign becomes a beacon of hope for many who yearn for spiritual and moral leadership in a divided nation. God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust explores the enduring relevance of faith in public life and the fight to keep religious values at the heart of governance.

'God's Not Dead' is the Most Successful Faith Franchise of All Time. The Biggest Faith Movie Franchise Returns
This film is uplifting and relevant just like *Mr. Smith Goes to Washington* was 85 years ago in that Pastor Dave approaches politics with moral courage, loves his country, stands up to corruption, and represents the principles that made America great and continue to make America great.
God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust is parallel to what we are seeing in this year’s election - the complex relationship between faith, politics, and our civic responsibilities.
In a society focused on democracy, representation, and equality, it's alarming that 40 million Christians do not vote, 25 million are registered, but don’t vote, and 15 million aren’t even registered. (repeat: 40 million Christians)
These compelling statistics should motivate people of faith to understand the significant influence of their collective voices and the critical importance of participating in this election year.
In the past two election cycles, woke politics and cancel culture have discouraged the faith base from taking a stronger stance and voting. However, we are now starting to see this trend reverse.
We are not canceling woke; we're reclaiming OUR freedom to express OUR faith without fear of scrutiny.
Our goal is simple: to reach as many unregistered Christian voters as possible to ensure our values are represented this election cycle.
The film delves into the complex relationship between faith, politics, and our civic responsibilities which is critical to our next election.
Most importantly, this film that demonstrates Christians should be optimistic, excited, and hopeful about the future.
Pastor Dave reminds us that we have the greatest blessing in that we are children of the Living God, and as Americans, the greatest title in the world: citizens of the United States of America.
Our focus in making this film is that all of us have the same characteristics and attributes of Pastor Dave because we have the Spirit of Christ leading and guiding us to be His light in darkness.

CAST

David A.R. White - God's Not Dead Saga, Revelation Road Saga, Countdown, Beckman
Dean Cain - 5 Days of War, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman
Isaiah Washington - Grey's Anatomy, The 100, Romeo Must Die, Ghost Ship
Ray Wise - X-Men: First Class, Dead End, Jeepers Creepers II, The Chase

I have always enjoyed the God's Not Dead Movie Series. I was EXTREMELY excited about this Film, God's Not Dead: In God We Trust.

WOW, this Film really has a STRONG message during this Election Year. I really LOVE that Pastor Dave decides to STAND UP and run for State Senator. He is really concerned that the Country is not allowing so many to express their Faith in Public. Pastor Dave really wants to put Faith back in the hearts of the Country as so many in the Political World want to surpress Moral Values and Faith in the Country and it causes strife and division. God's Not Dead: In God We Trust shows how we can stand firm and defend our faith during Political Division. I HIGHLY recommend this movie! We can Stand Firm in our Faith during Election Years!

Buy tickets today to see God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust

in theaters starting September 12th!

Ticket Sales

Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review.

Opinions are 100% my own.

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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

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Wednesday, September 11, 2024

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

Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse JustRead Blog Tour

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

Kate Tompkins

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.

(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

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

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Tuesday, September 10, 2024

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.