The Amish Candy Maker by Laura V. Hilton: Review & Giveaway!

The Amish Candy Maker

by Laura V. Hilton

Agnes Zook finds herself on her own in a small Amish community in Mackinac County after a tragedy kills her family. Most of the Amish call her “off in den Kopf” (strange) since she’s starting her own business and forging her own way in the community instead of relying on the bishop to take care of her. Since she’s viewed as non-submissive and too-forward for an Amish woman, she’s not courted by young men in the area.

Isaac Mast is on the verge of leaving the Amish church. He’s become a sought-after auctioneer and has a thriving business, but he feels confined by the strict rules. When his brother is severely injured in a wild fire, Isaac receives a letter from his sister-in-law, begging him to come to Mackinac County to help out while his brother is hospitalized. Isaac agrees but is unsure how to manage their young children when he has weekend auctions he’s expected to attend.

Agnes may be the answer to a prayer. Sparks fly when she and Isaac meet. But could their differences help them form a deeper connection to their faith…and each other?

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Laura Hilton is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and is a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with more than a thousand reviews published on the web. Her first series with Whitaker was The Amish of Seymour, comprising Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (2012 Laurel Award winner, first place in the Amish Genre Clash), and Promised to Another; and her second was The Amish of Webster County, comprising Healing Love, Awakened Love, and Surrendered Love. Her next series was The Amish of Jamesport, featuring The Post Card, Snow Globe, and The Birdhouse. Her latest books include The Amish Firefighter, The Amish Wanderer, and Love By the Numbers. Laura and her husband, Steve, live in Arkansas with their five children, whom Laura homeschools.

Guest Post from Laura

RECIPE FOR FUDGE À LA AGNES ZOOK

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge

Courtesy of Laura V. Hilton

1 bag (12 ounces) milk chocolate chips

1 bag (10 ounces) peanut butter chips

2 cans sweetened condensed milk, divided

6 tablespoons butter, divided

20 to 30 miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or six regular-size ones broken into four or five pieces each.  For the chocolate layer: Line a greased 8-by-11.5-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a double boiler or metal bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, combine milk chocolate chips, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and 4 tablespoons butter. Stir until melted and smooth.  Pour into prepared baking dish and allow to cool to room temperature, then move to the refrigerator while preparing next layer.

For the peanut butter layer: In a double boiler or metal bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, combine peanut butter chips, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and 2 tablespoons butter. Stir until melted and smooth.

Pour on to the milk chocolate fudge layer and press pieces of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into the surface. If desired, group candy pieces in a grid-like fashion for easier cutting later.  Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight or until set.

Remove from refrigerator, lift out of the pan by the edges of the parchment paper, and cut into squares, with roughly one miniature peanut butter cup or piece of a cup per square.  Store in the refrigerator.

My Thoughts

The Amish Candy Maker is a sweet Amish romance.  Agnes Zook lost her entire family the night of the fire along with her home and is now living with Bishop Miah and his wife.  The proceeds from the sale of her family’s land has helped her start Sweet Treats, a candy shop that features her fudge and rock candy (recipes at end of book).  Agnes’ father was a preacher who frequently told her that if she did not marry Gabe (who picked another) then she would remain single.  Agnes is determined to provide for herself and not be a burden on others.  The night of the fire, Sam Mast suffered devastating burns and has been in a hospital ever since then.  Isaac Mast is a traveling auctioneer who is in demand and his sister-in-law’s letter just caught up with him.  Jenny, Sam’s wife, has not left her husband’s side and their three children need Isaac along with their farm.  The last thing Isaac wishes to do is watch children after the tragic accident several years ago.  Plus, Isaac has many weekend auctions lined up and cannot watch the kids full-time.  When Isaac encounters Agnes, he believes they can reach an amicable solution.  Agnes is an entertaining character who speaks without thinking which leads to some humorous and embarrassing situations.  The electricity between Agnes and Isaac is immediate, but they each have issues standing in the way.  Bishop Miah is a wise man who provides insightful and thoughtful advice along with his snarky quips.  I like that the people do not have a smooth road on their journey.  They must deal with a robber, medical emergency, flirtatious women and their own internal demons and insecurities.  Agnes and Isaac need to learn that God is always there for them in good times and bad.  He never leaves us nor forsakes us.  I liked the inspirational thoughts and scripture verses included in The Amish Candy Maker.  The Amish Candy Maker has mischievous children, a wise Bishop, a busy auctioneer, mouthwatering confections and a quirky candy maker.  

To celebrate her tour, Laura is giving away a grand prize of a large and small spatula set and a $10 Starbucks gift card.  Be sure to comment on the blog stops (schedule below) for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click here to enter.  Good Luck!  Thank you for stopping by today.  Hot Fudge Murder by Cynthia Baxter is up tomorrow.  If you are looking for a new cozy mystery to read, I suggest picking up Dead as a Door Knocker by Diane Kelly (I will share my thoughts soon).  I hope you have a sparkling day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

Blog Stops

Christian Author, J. E. Grace, February 5

My Devotional Thoughts, February 5

Carla Loves To Read, February 5

Among the Reads, February 6

Girl’s In White Dresses, February 6

Britt Reads Fiction, February 6

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 7

The Avid Reader, February 7

Random Thoughts From a Bookworm, February 7

Emily Yager, February 8

Quiet quilter, February 8

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, February 8

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 9

Maureen’s Musings, February 9

Bibliophile Reviews, February 10

Vicky Sluiter, February 10

Through the Fire Blogs, February 11

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 11

Daysong Reflections, February 11

Texas Book-aholic, February 12

Janices book reviews, February 12

Carpe Diem, February 13

A Baker’s Perspective, February 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 14

SusanLovesBooks, February 14

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, February 14

Blossoms and Blessings, February 15

Stephanie’s Life of Perseverance, February 15

Inspiration Clothesline, February 15

Inklings and Notions, February 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 16

Pause for Tales, February 16

Have A Wonderful Day, February 17

For the Love of Books, February 17

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, February 17

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, February 18

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 18

Bigreadersite, February 18

A Rebel at Pennington's by Rachel Brimble: Review and Excerpt

Welcome!  Rachel Brimble lives in Wiltshire, England with her husband, two daughters and her chocolate Labrador, Tyler.  When Rachel is not writing, she likes to read, knit, and taking walks with her family.  They enjoy stopping at their favorite pub for luncheon and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.  Rachel has also written The Mistress at Pennington's (available on Kindle Unlimited) which tells the story of Elizabeth Pennington. You can find Rachel Brimble on Twitter (@RachelBrimble) and Facebook.  There is an excerpt from A Rebel at Pennington's below!

About the Book

One woman’s journey to find herself and help secure the vote. Perfect for the fans of the TV series Mr Selfridge and The Paradise.

1911 Bath. Banished from her ancestral home, passionate suffrage campaigner Esther Stanbury works as a window dresser in Pennington’s Department Store. She has hopes and dreams for women’s progression and will do anything to help secure the vote.

Owner of the prestigious Phoenix Hotel, Lawrence Culford has what most would view as a successful life. But Lawrence is harbouring shame, resentment and an anger that threatens his future happiness. When Esther and Lawrence meet, their mutual understanding of life’s challenges unites them and they are drawn to the possibility of a life of love that neither thought existed.

With the Coronation of King-Emperor George V looming, the atmosphere in Bath is building to fever pitch, as is the suffragists’ determination to secure the vote.

Will Esther’s rebellious nature lead her to ruin or can they overcome their pasts and look to build a future together?

Excerpt

City of Bath – 1911

In a small post office situated in one of the many back alleys that wound like a spider’s web throughout Bath’s city centre, Esther Stanbury feigned interest in a rotary stand of greeting cards. Furrowing her brow as her impatience grew, she snuck another look at the customer talking to her friend and fellow member of the Women’s Suffrage Society, Louise Marlow. Would the grey-haired, bespectacled woman ever leave?

‘That’s right, Mrs Baldwin. The post office will be running a normal service regardless of the rumours to the contrary. The Coronation will not affect the postal service for more than a day, I assure you.’ Louise smiled, deftly steering Mrs Baldwin towards the shop door and pulling it open, causing the bell above it to tinkle. ‘There’s no need to worry. Your sister will receive her birthday present in ample time.’

Mrs Baldwin shook her head, her expression etched with anxiety. ‘But if Margery receives it even a day late, she will—’ 

‘You have my word.’ Louise gently gripped the older woman’s elbow and firmly, but comfortingly, deposited Mrs Baldwin onto the cobbled street outside. ‘All will be well.’  With a swift wave, Louise closed the door and returned to Esther’s side. ‘That woman will send me to an early grave, I swear.’  Esther laughed. ‘I thought she’d never leave.’  ‘Now…’ Louise walked behind the counter and leaned her hands on the dark wood. ‘What can I get for you?’  ‘Could I have some stamps and three small envelopes, please? I have so much correspondence to sort out for Aunt Mary. I really must get on with it this evening.’

‘And how is your aunt?’  Esther sighed. ‘The usual. Moody, miserable and moaning.’  Louise smiled. ‘And is she all that’s bothering you? You seemed so agitated at the last Society meeting.’  ‘I was, but, unfortunately, I really don’t have time to talk about it now.’ She glanced at the clock on the wall behind Louise. ‘I must get to work.’  ‘Two minutes, Esther. I don’t like to see you unhappy.’

Esther sighed and slumped her shoulders. ‘I’m just becoming more and more exasperated that our efforts to obtain the vote remain fruitless. Our peaceful campaigning doesn’t seem to be getting us anywhere. I can’t help but wonder whether the suffragettes’ militant action isn’t only the correct path but the right way forward, if women are ever to be heard.’

Louise frowned, concern shadowing her dark brown eyes. ‘We are getting somewhere. We have more and more women joining the Society and last week’s petition was attended by double the number of spectators than we’ve ever had before. You must keep faith that we’ll triumph.’  ‘And I’m trying.’ Esther stepped away from the counter, sliding the rolled and bound poster designs she’d worked on the night before beneath her arm. ‘I’m just so frustrated.’

‘We all are, but we’ll see this through.’ Louise tilted her head towards Esther’s posters. ‘Make the final touches as we’ve discussed, and we’ll present them to the others at the next meeting. We’ll see victory, Esther. I know we will.’

Esther stared at her friend as doubt wound through her, but Louise was right. Losing faith would do no good at all. They had to stay positive and committed. Only time and dedication could change the status quo. ‘You’re right. Belief is key.’ With a firm nod, Esther turned to the door. ‘I’ll see you soon.’

Leaving the post office, she walked through the alleyway and along the street until she reached Milsom Street. As Esther walked, heedless to the rows of shops either side of her, a gust of the May wind jolted her from her preoccupation and Esther slapped her hand to her hat. ‘Ooh!’

A little boy beside her giggled, his hand grasped in his mother’s as they passed by. Esther laughed and tipped him a wink, the brief exchange dousing a little of her mental frustration. Quickening her pace, she strode towards Pennington’s, Bath’s premier department store and her treasured place of work.

At least she had the love of her occupation to hold close. She had to count her blessings. Had to believe that being banished by her father from her childhood home, because of her involvement in the Cause, no longer affected her. She had been, and would always remain, staunchly determined to continue the suffrage work her mother had involved Esther in since a young age.

When her mother had passed, Esther’s father had mistakenly believed his daughter would give up the fight.  How very wrong he had been.

My Thoughts

A Rebel at Pennington’s by Rachel Brimble takes us to 1911 in Bath, England.  Esther Stanbury is the head window dresser at Pennington’s Department Store and a staunch suffragette.  Esther’s deceased mother was an advocate for women’s right to vote and raised Esther to follow suit.  After her father remarried, he gave Esther an ultimatum.  He wanted Esther to give up her fight for the vote or she must leave their home.  Esther refused to give up the Cause and moved in with her Aunt Mary.  One day outside Pennington’s, Esther encounters Lawrence Culford and his two delightful children.  Lawrence is instantly smitten with Esther and her passion for improving women’s rights.  While Esther would like to have a relationship, she refuses to give up who she is or what she believes in for a man.  Lawrence owns the prestigious Phoenix Hotel and is a widower.  After a miserable childhood and an arranged marriage, Lawrence is determined if he marries again, it will be for love.  The coronation of George V is imminent and the whole country is excited about their new monarchs.   Esther is busy designing new windows for Pennington’s, but she cannot resist spending time with Lawrence.  Then the suffragists’ come up with a plan to garner attention for their cause that could jeopardize Esther’s future.  Is there a chance for Lawrence and Esther?

 

A Rebel at Pennington’s features Esther Stanbury who was raised by her mother to fight for women’s rights.  Esther does not see a way to fight for what she believes in and having a family.  Her father’s ultimatum is the cause.  Love has a way of challenging your beliefs and resolve.  Lawrence had a cruel father and he is determined to not be like him.  He was forced into one arranged marriage and will not let his mother do it to him again.  Each have issues to overcome before they can move forward.  We get to see the struggles suffragettes faced in England.  The criticism, insults, items hurled at them, and being tossed into jail.  There were different groups with some who did peaceful demonstrations and others that chose a more militant approach.  I thought the author captured the attitudes of the people during the time along with the atmosphere prior to George V’s coronation.  I am glad that the author included Elizabeth Pennington from The Mistress of Pennington's (each book can be read as a standalone) in the story.  We get to see how she is faring after taking over the store and marrying the man she loves.  I enjoyed the descriptions of the windows and displays at Pennington’s.  They were unique for the time period and would have attracted customers.  A Rebel at Pennington’s is nicely written with steady pacing which makes it easy to read.  The attraction between Esther and Lawrence is electric and unmistakable.  I do want to let readers know there is mild foul language scattered throughout the book and there is a very descriptive, intimate scene.  For those who love historical romances with a rebellious woman and a dashing widow, then do not miss out on A Rebel at Pennington’s.   

A Rebel at Pennington's is available at Amazon, Kobo, Google Play, and iBooks.  To find more of the delightful books offered by Aria, click here.  Thank you for stopping by today.  For more excerpts and reviews on A Rebel at Pennington's, see schedule below.  I am featuring The Amish Candy Maker by Laura V. Hilton tomorrow as part of the Celebrate Lit tour (I believe there is a giveaway).  I hope you have a productive day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

The Forgiving Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Happy Book Release Day!  Some of the new books out today are A Rebel at Pennington's by Rachel Brimble, Mending Fences by Suzanne Woods Fisher, The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin, Corned Beef and Casualties by Lynn Cahoon, A Faithful Gathering by Leslie Gould, A Desperate Hope by Elizabeth Camden, With Winter's First Frost by Kelly Irvin, Healing Hearts by Sarah M. Eden, and The Forgiving Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter.  I have been a busy reader this last week!

The Forgiving Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter has us returning to Strasburg, Pennsylvania. Sara Murray is returning to her grandparent’s farm for the Thanksgiving holiday.  The dentist she worked for recently retired and Sara would like to relocate to Strasburg to be closer to her grandparents.  She is hoping she can live with them while looking for a job and apartment.  When Sara arrived at the Lapp farm for the first time, she was shocked to find a woman impersonating her.  Sara has no tolerance for people who lie, deceive and keep secrets since she learned of her mother’s secrets.  When Sara arrives at the farm, she is surprised to see Michelle Taylor, the imposter, is once again living with Willis and Mary Ruth Lapp.  Her grandparents tell Sara that Michelle returned to explain her actions and apologized to them.  They have forgiven Michelle and invited her to live with them.  Sara does not understand how they can easily forgive Michelle’s deception.  Sara moves into the farmhouse and struggles to live with Michelle.  She meets Brad Fuller, a theological student, when he visits at Christmas who had met Michelle the previous summer.  Sara is drawn to Brad and she can tell he is attracted to her.  However, Brad seems to keep his distance which confuses Sara.  One day Sara finds an old canning jar in the cellar filled with slips of paper.  Each slip has a different Bible verse or inspirational message.  These messages provide Sara with encouragement and hope.  Can Sara find a way to overcome her mother’s deceptions as well as Michelle’s?  Is forgiveness in Sara’s future?  Come along for Sara’s journey in The Forgiving Jar.

 

The Forgiving Jar is the second book in The Prayer Jar series.  While The Forgiving Jar could be read as a standalone, I suggest reading The Hope Jar first.  It will provide you with Michelle’s complete story and help you understand her motivations.  I thought The Forgiving Jar was well-written with gentle pacing.  I did find the story to be a little slow in the middle.  I was drawn into the story and wanted to find out what would happen with Sara and Michelle.  Sara has a hard time grappling with the concept of forgiveness.  Her mother kept secrets from her and then Michelle impersonated her.  Sara has trust issues and does not understand how her grandparents can easily forgive Michelle for her deception.  We get to see how the slips of paper in an old canning jar help Sara understand the importance of forgiveness and being a Christian.  The slips in the canning jar were encouraging, inspirational, guiding and thought provoking. With Michelle and Sara living in the same household, it is rife with tension.  Mary Ruth talks with Sara about the issue.  After that, Mary Ruth prays and leaves the issue in God’s hands.  There is romance in the story as Michelle and Ezekiel King draw closer to each other.  One of my favorite phrases was “turn your cares into prayers.”  I did have trouble with Sara.  She has a giant chip on her shoulder plus she is extremely resentful of Michelle.  As time goes by, Sara along with Michelle mature.  I liked seeing the women evolve, learn from their mistakes and grow in their faith.  The Healing Jar is the next book in The Prayer Jar series.  The Forgiving Jar is a sweet, heartwarming story that will touch your heart. 

There is an extended free preview available of The Forgiving Jar.   Click here for the Amazon version (there is one available on Barnes & Noble as well).  Thank you for stopping by today.  I will feature A Rebel at Pennington's by Rachel Brimble tomorrow.  I hope you can join me.  May you have a thoughtful day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

Murder, She Meowed by Liz Mugavero: A Review and a Giveaway!

Murder, She Meowed

(A Pawsitively Organic Mystery)

by Liz Mugavero

About the Book

Murder, She Meowed (A Pawsitively Organic Mystery)

Cozy Mystery

7th in Series

Kensington (January 29, 2019)

Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages

ISBN-10: 1496717589

ISBN-13: 978-1496717580

Digital ASIN: B07CWDC8G9

Kristan “Stan” Connor loves concocting tasty organic treats for dogs and cats—and she also loves her fiancé, pub owner Jake McGee. But she’s not so enthusiastic about finding a dead body at her own bachelorette party . . .

Stan and Jake’s wedding will soon take place on the town green in Frog Ledge, Connecticut, followed by a reception at their beloved Irish pub filled with friends, family, and their four favorite canine companions. Stan just has to endure the traditional girls’ night out first. Male strippers jumping out of gigantic cakes aren’t her preferred entertainment. But the hired hottie never gets around to taking it all off . . . because someone takes him out first with one of Stan’s kitchen knives. A heartbroken Stan recognizes the victim as one of the delivery men from the local farm—who must have been moonlighting for some extra cash. Now the guest list has turned into a suspect list—and Stan’s making a vow to find the killer . . .

Includes Gourmet Pet Food Recipes!

About the Author

Liz Mugavero has been writing stories since she could hold a pen. Before that, she would tell them to anyone who would listen (not many at the time). After deciding early on she would write books for a living, she practiced by writing bad, angst-filled poems, short stories and even a storyline for a soap opera–all by age 15. She never wavered from her goals despite all the usual questions including, “So are you going to be an English teacher with that degree in English?” or, “That writing thing sounds nice, but how are you REALLY going to make a living?”

She went on to get a master’s in writing and publishing and spent time in journalism, PR, and presently, corporate communications. And she’s confident this writing thing IS the way to make a living.

Aside from writing, she loves animals (has a houseful), the beach, reading other writers’ masterpieces and Starbucks coffee.

Author Links:  Webpage, Twitter, GoodReads, and Facebook

My Thoughts

Murder, She Meowed by Liz Mugavero has readers journeying to Frog Ledge, Connecticut.  Kristina “Stan” Connor is getting married to pub owner, Jake McGee in three weeks.  The couple have spent the winter planning their wedding which will be at McSwigg’s (Jake’s pub) followed by a reception.  The pub holds a special place in their hearts, and they want to celebrate the day with their close family, friends and pets.  Unfortunately, Patricia, Stan’s mother, has her own ideas for the wedding and makes plans without consulting Stan.  Stan’s sister, Caitlyn is insisting on giving her a bachelorette party and a reluctant Stan attends.  At the bachelorette party the excitement ramps up when a giant cake is wheeled in and, instead of a half-naked man jumping out of the cake, they see blood seeping from the bottom of the cake.  Inside they find Perry Puck dead from a knife wound with one of Stan’s kitchen knives inside with him.  Perry is one of the farmhands at Spring Hill Farm and has been moonlighting as a stripper.  Sgt. Jessie Pasquale, Stan’s soon to be sister-in-law and an unenthusiastic guest at the party, quickly takes charge of the crime scene.  Stan would like the murder solved before her wedding day and begins asking questions around town.  Stan soon finds a threatening note on her car and then the individual gets into Pawsitively Organic, Stan’s pet patisserie, to leave another one.  As if Stan does not have enough on her plate, her mother has hired a wedding planner to “reshape” her wedding.  She needs to stand up to her mother or the town will soon have another murder on its hands with Stan taking her marriage vows in an orange jumpsuit.  Can Stan pinpoint Perry’s killer before her big day?  Will Stan and Jake get the wedding they planned, or will Patricia get her way?

Murder, She Meowed is seventh book in A Pawsitively Organic Mystery series.  If you have not read any of the previous books in the series, you will not be lost.  The author provides the necessary background information for new readers.  I like the town of Frog Ledge, Connecticut with its quirky residents and unique shops.  Stan has cultivated a wonderful group of friends who have become family to her, and she wants to celebrate her special day with them.  Stan is a woman of simple tastes and she does not want an extravagant wedding.  Unfortunately, Stan’s mother, Patricia refuses to listen and steamrolls right over Stan’s objections.  I did not understand why Jake was not more supportive of Stan.  When the wedding planner shows up, Jake ducks out (the chicken).  Stan is lucky to have her good friend, Nikki Manning in town.  I found Murder, She Meowed to be entertaining and easy to read.  I love the adorable cats and dogs featured in the story.  Nutty, the Maine Coon cat, is my favorite.  I did not like Patricia and Caitlyn ignoring Stan’s wishes.  I found it frustrating, aggravating, annoying and many other words ending in “ing”.  It is supposed to be humorous, but, as you can tell, I was not laughing.  The mystery had several suspects and misdirection to distract readers from the real culprit.  The author upped her game with this whodunit (thank you).  The ending of Murder, She Meowed is extremely satisfying.  I enjoyed my latest visit to Frog Ledge, and I was smiling when I finished this engaging tale.  I am giving Murder, She Meowed 4 out of 5 stars.  There are pet food recipes at the end.  Murder, She Meowed is a delightful cozy mystery with its friendly residents, delectable delights at Izzy’s, adorable fur babies, a wedding and a dead man in red satin undies.

Murder, She Meowed is available at Amazon, B&N, Kobo, Google Play, and IndieBound.  Now it is time for the giveaway information!  You can enter the giveaway via the Rafflecopter form below or click here.  Three lucky winners will receive a print copy of Murder, She Meowed.  Good Luck! Do not forget to visit the other stops on the tour for author interviews, guest posts, spotlights, reviews, character interviews, and recipes (see schedule below). You can find the complete list of books in A Pawsitively Organic Mystery series here.I appreciate you visiting today.  I plan on featuring The Forgiving Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter tomorrow.  It is the second book in The Prayer Jars series.  Take care of yourself and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Participants

February 4 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW

February 4 – Socrates Book Reviews - SPOTLIGHT

February 4 – Reading Authors – REVIEW

February 5 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – A Wytch's Book Review Blog – REVIEW

February 6 – T's Stuff – SPOTLIGHT

February 6 – StoreyBook Reviews – GUEST POST

February 6 – Valerie's Musings – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 7 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 7 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

February 7 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 8 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 8 – View from the Birdhouse – SPOTLIGHT

February 8 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW

February 9 – Sapphyria's Books – SPOTLIGHT

February 9 – The Montana Bookaholic – REVIEW, RECIPE

February 9 – I'm All About Books – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 10 – A Blue Million Books – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 10 – Laura`s Interests – REVIEW

February 10 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT

February 11 – Cinnamon, Sugar and a Little Bit of Murder – REVIEW, RECIPE

February 11 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 11 – Here's How It Happened – GUEST POST

What Doesn't Kill Her by Christina Dodd

Welcome!  Delighting in Your Company by Blair McDowell comes out on February 4.  On February 5 there are a plethora of new books which include Mending Fences by Suzanne Woods Fisher, The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin, The Forgiving Jar by Wanda E. Brunstetter, Corned Beef and Casualties by Lynn Cahoon, A Faithful Gathering by Leslie Gould and A Rebel at Pennington's by Rachel Brimble (I will feature on February 6).  These are just a few of the new books coming out.

What Doesn’t Kill Her by Christina Dodd takes us to Willamette Valley in Oregon where the Di Luca Winery is located.  Kellen Adams (aka Cecilia Adams) is adjusting to living at the Di Luca Winery with Max Di Luca, their seven year old daughter, Rae and Max’s mother, Verona.  Kellen lost a year of her life while in a coma from a gunshot wound and she then disappeared upon awakening.  She is now the mother the precocious Rae and no clue how to relate to her.  Kellen misses working and Max finds her a job that will give her time away to think about the future.  Nils Brooks hires Kellen along with Richart Movers to transport a mummy head into the Olympic mountains to a reclusive man for authentication.  Kellen can tell something is off as soon as they pick up the artifact.  Her suspicions are soon confirmed, and Kellen finds herself in the mountains without a vehicle or a phone.  However, Kellen does find a stowaway.  Rae decided to join Kellen on the trip so they can bond.  Thankfully, she did leave a note behind (of sorts) for Max and Verona.  Kellen must get the artifact along with Rae and herself up the mountain to the Restorer (as the man is called) without being killed by the armed men following her.  Come along for Kellen’s adventure in What Doesn’t Kill Her.

 

What Doesn’t Kill Her is a well-written and engaging romantic suspense novel.  It is fast-paced with plenty of action.  While What Doesn’t Kill Her can be read alone, but I highly recommend reading Dead Girl Running first (first book in Cape Charade series).  The summary just does not do Kellen’s situation justice.  Rae is the highlight of What Doesn’t Kill Her.  She is an active, intelligent and sassy little girl.  Her witty dialogue will have you chuckling along with her obsession for pink, purple, heroes and her princess dolls (the poor dolls).  Rae has just found her mommy and she has no intention of a lack of bonding get in the way. These parents are going to have their hands full with the spunky and mischievous Rae.  Kellen should have known not to take a job from Nils Brooks.  He deserves everything Rae, Max and Kellen dish out.  I started reading What Doesn’t Kill Her and just kept going until I reached the end.  The book is character driven with plenty of action. Christina Dodd created developed characters that suit the story.  I can understand why Kellen hid under the bushes to avoid Rae at times as well as the large Di Luca clan.  There is a funny scene where an event is planned under the same bushes. Avid mystery readers will be able to pinpoint the evildoer, but I loved the chase.  I like that when bad things happen it is not described in gory detail.  There is foul language sprinkled throughout the book (just letting you know).  I do want to warn readers that we are left with a cliffhanger at the end of What Doesn’t Kill Her (and we must wait until October).  I am giving What Doesn’t Kill Her 5 out of 5 stars (I loved it).  I enjoyed the suspense, action, intrigue, humor, mystery and romance in this thrilling adventure.  Not many writers can create a book that makes a reader feel a range of emotions.  I cannot wait to read Stranger She Knows when it releases on October 8.  Buckle in for another exciting adventure with Kellen and her sidekick, Rae in What Doesn’t Kill Her. 

Thank you for visiting today.  I am showcasing Murder, She Meowed by Liz Mugavero tomorrow as part of the Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour.  I hope you will stop by (there might be a giveaway).  May you have a rapturous day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

Death by Committee by Alexis Morgan: A Review & Giveaway!

Death by Committee (An Abby McCree Mystery)

by Alexis Morgan

About the Book

Death by Committee (An Abby McCree Mystery)

Cozy Mystery

1st in Series

Kensington (January 29, 2019)

Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages

ISBN-10: 1496719530

ISBN-13: 978-1496719539

Digital ASIN: B07CWF6QBL

When Abby McCree suddenly inherits her favorite relative’s property in small town Snowberry Creek, Washington, she soon realizes that the ramshackle home comes with strings attached—one of which is tied to a dead body!

After a rough divorce, Abby McCree only wants to stitch up her life and move on. But other loose ends appear after her elderly Aunt Sybil passes away, leaving Abby to tend to a rundown estate, complete with a slobbery Mastiff of questionable pedigree and a sexy tenant who growls more than the dog. As Abby gets drawn into a tight-knit quilting guild, she makes a twisted discovery—Aunt Sybil’s only known rival is buried in her backyard!

Despite what local detectives say, Abby refuses to accept that her beloved aunt had anything to do with the murder. While navigating a busy social calendar and rediscovering the art of quilting, she launches an investigation of her own to clear Aunt Sybil’s name and catch the true culprit. The incriminating clues roll in, yet Abby can’t help but wonder—can she survive her new responsibilities in Snowberry Creek and still manage to patch together a killer’s deadly pattern without becoming the next victim?

About the Author

USA Today Best-selling author Alexis Morgan has always loved reading and now spends her days imagining worlds filled with strong alpha heroes and gutsy heroines. She is the author of over forty-five novels, novellas, and short stories that span a variety of genres: American West historicals (as Pat Pritchard); paranormal and fantasy romances; and contemporary romances. She is excited to say that next year will also see the release of her first cozy mystery series. Alexis has been nominated for several industry awards, including the RITA, the top award in the romance genre.

Author Links:  Website, Facebook, Twitter, Blog

My Thoughts

Death by Committee by Alexis Morgan takes us on a journey to Snowberry Creek, Washington.  Abby McCree has inherited her Aunt Sybil’s Victorian home along a Zeke, a mastiff mix and a tenant in the mother-in-law cottage who assists with chores.  Abby is recently divorced and is still deciding what she wants to do with her future.  She has been going through the contents of the house box by box and assisting the quilting guild with the preparations for their upcoming garage sale.  Abby hired goats to clear out runaway blackberry vines and notices one of them is chewing on fabric.  Tripp Blackston, her tenant, goes over to check it out and uncovers a body wrapped in a quilt.  The victim was Aunt Sybil’s rival, Dolly Cayhill who has not been seen since before Christmas.  Deceased Aunt Sybil is Chief of Police Gabe Logan’s top suspect since she had an argument with Dolly at church over the presidency of the quilting club.  Abby knows that her aunt would never have harmed a soul and sets out to prove it with the help of three of her aunt’s friends.  Somehow Abby also finds herself the new head of Snowberry Creek’s Committee on Senior Affairs, managing the quilting guilds garage sale and searching for twelve (well, now eleven) missing quilts.  Join Abby as she stitches together the clues to reveal a killer in Death by Committee. 

Death by Committee is a cute cozy mystery.  I thought it was a quick and easy to read book.  Abby McCree is newly divorced from a cheating husband and out of job since he bought out her share of the company.  Moving to Snowberry Cree gives Abby a new start.  She has inherited a large Victorian home along with the contents plus the oversized Zeke and a handsome tenant in the mother-in-law cottage.  Abby is an appealing character who is helpful and friendly with the elderly ladies of the quilting guild.  Louise Allen, Jean Benson and Glenda Unger are the three quilting guild members who rope Abby into various projects and enjoy watching Tripp work in the yard (frequently without his shirt on).  Tripp Blackston is ex-military and a college freshman who is renting the mother-in-law cottage.  There are frequent mentions of Tripp’s physique as the ladies ogle him.  The author is setting him up to be Abby’s love interest, but I do not admire his bossy attitude and hair trigger temper.  The mystery is straightforward with a small suspect list, a red herring and pointed clues.  Abby talks with several people to gather information, but that is the extent of her investigating.  Solving this whodunit is a piece of cake.  I did like how the mystery was wrapped up at the end.   I like Gage Logan, the chief of police.  He is friendly, helpful and has a sense of humor.  Death by Committee is a good start to An Abby McCree Mystery series.  I hope the author takes the time to develop her characters in the next book and provide more details on the town.  Death by Committee is a light hearted cozy mystery with a charming Victorian home, a cute mastiff mix, beautifully crafted quilts, three busy older ladies and killer on the loose.

Death by Committee can be purchased at the following retailers:  Amazon, B&N, Kobo, Google Play, IndieBound.  In honor of the tour, there is a giveaway for three print copies of Death by Committee. You can enter using the form below or click here.  Take a moment to visit the other stops on the tour for guests posts, character interviews and author interviews.  Thank you for stopping by today.  I will feature What Doesn't Kill Her by Christina Dodd tomorrow.  It is the second book in the Cape Charade series.  I hope you have a scintillating day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 1 – Moonlight Rendezvous – REVIEW, GUEST POST

February 1 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

February 2 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW

February 2 – The Power of Words – REVIEW *

February 3 – Nadaness In Motion - REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 4 – The Montana Bookaholic – REVIEW

February 4 – My Reading Journeys – SPOTLIGHT  

February 5 – Jody’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – Mysteries with Character – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 6 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW

February 6 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 7 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

February 7 – A Blue Million Books – GUEST POST

February 8 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 8 – The Book Diva's Reads - SPOTLIGHT

February 9 – Mallory Heart's Cozies – REVIEW

February 9 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 10 – Cassidy's Bookshelves – REVIEW

February 11 – A Wytch's Book Review Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 12 – That's What She's Reading – GUEST POST

February 13 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 13 – Socrates Book Reviews – REVIEW

February 14 – Melina's Book Blog - REVIEW

Hetty's Secret War by Rosie Clarke: Cover Reveal

In 1939, with the world on the brink of war, one women faces a future more uncertain than she had ever imagined...

Living in Paris, with the threat of war becoming all the more imminent, Hetty knows if she wants to stay safe, she must make her way home immediately. So she makes her way to the ports, hoping to secure one of the last places on the boats headed for England. But on her way she finds newly orphaned little girl who needs her help, and care.

And so Hetty, with little Kristina, finds herself sheltering at Chateau de Faubourg, where they are both welcomed by Countess de Faubourg and her dashing son Pierre... But the gilded walls of the Chateau hide secret war work of the most dangerous kind - but Hetty knows she owes it to the gami Beth - orphaned as a child, Beth is coming of age and determined to do her bit for the war effort.

Caught up in a whirlwind romance, she marries only to become a war widow....and one expecting a baby who will never know his brave father. Can she find happiness again?

 Hetty - desperately trying to make her way back from Paris to her beloved family in England, a fateful and tragic encounter brings Hetty to Chateau de Faubourg where she joins the resistance and risks both her heart and her life fighting for charismatic resistance leader Stefan Lefarge...

However dark the times, courage, determination and the power of friendship can overcome the hardships of war.

Hetty's Secret War is the third book in Women at War series which will be available on March 19 (I will feature on March 22).  I am looking forward to diving into this historical novel.  Hetty's Secret War is for sale on Amazon, Kobo, Google Play, and iBooks.  The first two books are Jessie's Promise and The Runaway Wife (available through Kindle Unlimited).  Thank you for joining me today.  I am featuring Death by Committee by Alexis Morgan on February 2.  It is the first book in An Abby McCree Mystery series.  I hope you have a fabulous day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader