Character interview of Brooke Hollen of Desolate Paths by Erin Unger

Hi everyone! Brooke Hollen here! I’m the star of Desolate Paths.Thanks so much for having me today, Carrie! I’m excited to talk to you.

Hello, Brooke. Tell us about yourself. How did you get into Erin Unger’s novel?

Ha-ha, funny story—well really a scary one—I got into trouble and the best help I could get was in rehab. But, man, I didn’t expect all the drama there. And I should’ve read the website closer. I didn’t know what I was in for when I arrived. Erin knew I’d make some interesting choices and liven up her story once I got to the rehab center.

Why did you choose Carrick Living Museum and Rehabilitation Center to help you through your addiction?

I saw the promise of authentic help and rest and relaxation. I didn’t read all of the details because all I wanted was to rest my way through rehab. Little did I know relaxation only happened the first few days. I should’ve picked up on all the pictures of people wearing period clothing on the website. Authentic is an understatement about Carrick rehab. But God knew exactly where I needed to be.

Oh, dear. What’s different about the center?

It’s a center where all residents work throughout their rehab. Cory and Dara Carrick believe in the importance of learning how to be a valuable member of society while rehabilitating. All residents have to wear period clothing and must do all chores and cooking the way people would’ve in the early 1800s. 

What’s so scary about your stay at the center?

Who would’ve guessed I’d be in danger at the center when it’s supposed to be a safe environment? There is a serial killer living amongst us.

Oh, that’s terrible. How are you handling it?

I’m trying to stay out of trouble and rely on my new faith, but I’m really scared. Kyle Reston, the person I want to trust, could be responsible for all the women disappearing.

Maybe you should rethink hanging out with him. Do you have anyone else you can trust?

I have a new friend, Willa, who has been trying to keep me straight. She’s a lot further in her journey to recovery. Hopefully, together we’ll make it out of the center alive.

Well, I hope you stay safe. Thanks for talking to us.

With God, all things are possible. And because of my new faith, I’ll rely on Him to get me through this dangerous time. It was fun talking to you, Carrie.

Brooke is putting her trust in God through a very difficult time. What circumstance have you been in this year where you could only rely on God for the answer? Comment below to win an eBook of Desolate Paths or a paperback of Desolate Paths.

Thank you to Erin Unger

Social Media Links: Facebook Twitter Instagram

Short Bio: Erin Unger was raised in the hills of Virginia, exploring abandoned houses and reading the scariest books she could find. After marrying so young it would make a great romance novel, she has enjoyed an exciting life with her hubby.But her fast-paced life sometimes rivals the suspense in her books thanks to all her mostly grown children and a couple grandkids.

On Love's Gentle Shore - By Liz Johnson, Audiobook Review

On Love's Gentle Shore
Prince Edward Island Dreams Series, Book 3
By: Liz Johnson
Narrated by: Amy Melissa Bentley
Series: Prince Edward Island Dreams, Book 3
Length: 8 hrs and 48 mins
Publisher: Tantor Audio

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5 Stars *****

Audiobook Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Somehow I had a big gap between listening to the wonderful first two books in this series and this third one which released a year ago. I highly recommend the entire series! I think I had a lot of life stuff going on and major health issues that got in the way. Then I was off to Mackinac Island for the summer and got the chance to regroup. So I've been catching up on my audiobook listens! 

The narrator, Amy Bentley, really enhances the story! I give her 5 Stars for her narration! Hit it perfectly! A narrator can help your story or spoil it and Ms. Bentley was wonderful.

I loved this story as I did the other two in this series. Liz Johnson has this great author's voice. Having met her in person and been in a collection with her (A Cup of Christmas Cheer, Guideposts Books, now out of print) I wasn't surprised I'd love her voice as she's such a sweet lady. Her characters are so relatable and down-to-earth. And I enjoyed the three very different stories. That really showed her talent in having same story world but completely different story plots. 

In the novel, Natalie has been basically pressured into returning to Prince Edward Island, by her fiancé Russell a wealthy and prominent music producer. Little did he know!!! This isn't where she wants to be. At all!  But Natalie has some healing that can come from this return. Ms. Johnson does a great job of developing the characters and especially with arcs for both the hero and Justin and Natalie's fiancé. I loved that she didn't resort to using some typical things with Russell but had a deft hand in showing us his nature.

I used an Audible.com download for my listen as I have a membership. Delightful romance! Grab all three listens!

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Publisher's Summary
Fifteen years after she left Prince Edward Island, Natalie O'Ryan had no plans to return. But when her fiancé, music producer Russell Jacobs, books their wedding in her hometown and schedules a summer at Rose's Red Door Inn, she sets out to put the finishing touches on the perfect wedding. But she can't possibly prepare for a run-in with Justin Kane - the best friend she left behind all those years ago after promising to stay.

Justin's never forgotten Natalie or the music career he always dreamed of pursuing. He'd been prepared to follow her off the island until his dad died and he was left to run the family dairy farm. He's done the best he can with the life that was thrust upon him - but with Natalie back in the picture, he begins to realize just how much joy he's been missing.

After Natalie's reception venue falls through, she must scramble to find an alternative, and the only option seems to be a barn on Justin's property. As they work together to get the dilapidated building ready for the party, Natalie and Justin discover the groundwork for forgiveness - and that there may be more than an old friendship between them.

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Giveaway: Box of Christian fiction books to one commenter.

Back in the Saddle Audiobook by Ruth Logan Herne

Publisher's Summary

Here comes a captivating western romance and family-centered drama with a heart of gold, featuring plenty of cowboys and family drama, from prolific author and networker Ruth Logan Herne. 

Colt Stafford's winner-take-all personality clashed with his father's similar temperament and led Colt to pursue his own success far from the Double S ranch. The opportunity came in private equities once he earned his way to a desk on Wall Street. But timing is everything and Colt's financial demise coincided with his father's illness. God's perfect timing doesn't always seem all that perfect, but Colt needed a job, the Double S needed Colt, and Sam sent his prodigal son a ticket, and Colt came home. He rediscovers his love for ranching, for Washington, and for the great outdoors. His father's change of heart seems surreal, and by the time Colt realizes he belongs with his family, he's lost his heart to a Latina cop whose gone undercover to protect her child and her mother. Through the accidents of timing, God has brought multiple facets together at the Double S, just in time for healing, hope, and home. 

©2016 Ruth Logan Herne (P)2016 Recorded Books

Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

A Lovely Listen!

I listened to my copy of Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne via Audible.com. This is a Christian contemporary romance. I'm normally a historical romance reader but I loved Wishing Bridge, which I reviewed earlier on the blog, and I wanted to listen to another of Ruth Logan Herne's stories. And I wasn't disappointed!

This story, for this collection series (Double S Ranch) release over a year ago but I'm playing catch up with my listening. And what a lovely story to listen to on audiobook! Lovely narrator who is perfect for the heroine. Like the Publisher's summary says, this is a "Prodigal Son" story, so don't expect that you will immediately be charmed by Colt, the hero. He's got a pretty big character story arc in this novel. But you'll love the beautiful Latina heroine and her family, I guarantee it. And she can see Colt's potential. Maybe. Kind of. You'll have to listen to or read the story to find out!!! 

GIVEAWAY: This week I'm giving away a devotional. Leave a comment on this post or on my Sunday post for up to two entries for a chance to win.

Bonnie Roof Reviews Julie Lessman's Four New Novella's

She longs to be the perfect mother. He just longs for his wife. Until they receive ... the best gift of all. Everyone knows Lizzie and John Brady have the perfect marriage. But when Lizzie’s desire to be a good mother eclipses her desire for her husband, the honeymoon is definitely over. Can the spirit of Christmas heal their hearts when Lizzie gives John the best gift of all?

THE BEST GIFT OF ALL: AN O'CONNOR CHRISTMAS NOVELLA - 5 Stars

The Best Gift of All features John and Lizzy Brady in an engaging romance that addresses a problem familiar to many marriages: balancing the roles of spouse and parent. The Best Gift of All will inspire, reveal dramatic surprises, entertain with its family's antics, bring both smiles and tears, warm the reader's heart, and endear them to its characters. It's story of faith could quite possibly heal some marriages!

He’s everybody’s lovable rogue. She’s nobody’s fool who hopes to steer clear. Until a thunderstorm sinks them both into a sea of love. Blake “The Rake” McClare has a notorious reputation as a womanizer, which is why soft-spoken Patience Peabody carefully avoids the lovable rogue attorney at the law firm in which they both work. Until a rare thunderstorm brings them together in a love soaked with the grace of God ... and sparked with a little lightning of its own

GRACE LIKE RAIN: A HEART OF SAN FRANCISCO Novella - 5 Stars

Attorney Blake "The Rake" McClare is a womanizer who lives up to his name - until his charms are lost on soft-spoken, professional, receptionist Patience Peabody (who wears her name well). Patience has a few tricks of her own - who will win the battle of the wills in this engrossing, sweet romance that will inspire, give you a laugh, some drama, spin a twist, and then steal your heart with it's warm, realistic characters? Only God knows!

She’s the Accident to His Prayers …Pastor Cole McCabe isn’t sure he’ll survive the holidays with his new housekeeper and nanny. She’s caught fire to the kitchen, dyed his long johns pink, and scorched nearly everything she cooks. But he’s desperate, and she’s as destitute as they come. Even though she’s no good with her hands, Grace sure has a way with her heart. She’s brought a warmth into Cole’s home, added color to his daughters’ lives, and broken down the wall he’s built up since his beloved wife died. But when Grace’s past threatens Cole’s family, she’s given one last chance to be home for Christmas . . . if she hasn’t burned it down yet.

THE GIFT OF GRACE: A FRONTIER CHRISTMAS NOVELLA - 5 Stars

When his aunt is injured, Pastor Cole McCabe is desperate for a housekeeper and nanny for his daughters. A friend of Cole's deceased wife, Grace O'Malley is destitute and desperate for a lifestyle change. What would appear to be the perfect answer to the problems of both - turns into a disaster when Cole finds Grace can't cook and has few housekeeping skills. When her secrets threaten to tear his family apart, Cole intervenes and reveals a few secrets of his own. Drama, twists, and suspense kept me glued to the pages of this beautiful romance; the endearing children, hilarious situations, and sweet romance brought me to tears. Forgiveness and redemption through a loving God are the healing factors making this story a winner.

She’s desperate for a baby. He’s desperate for an empty nest.

Love is desperate to surprise them both. With a husband dead set against adoption, Charity O’Connor Dennehy has barely a whisper of hope for more children, but if hope doesn’t disappoint … will it be enough to find a precious bundle under her tree?

A WHISPER OF HOPE: AN O'CONNOR CHRISTMAS NOVELLA - 5 Stars

Charity O'Connor Dennehy, mother of twins, desperately wants to adopt a child she has come to love while on visits to St. Mary's Home For Unwed-Mothers with her sister-in-law. Husband Mitch, 16 years Charity's senior, is deeply opposed - wanting to raise and provide their best for the two children they already have. Whose perspective will change?

Having worked in a home for abused and neglected children and being a parent myself, I could identify with both sides of the story and was deeply touched by it. Author Julie Lessman provided just enough warmth, laughs, and spiritual inspiration to balance out my reader tears.     

You may purchase these wonderful novellas by clicking on these links. 

THE BEST GIFT OF ALL (An O’Connor Christmas Novella):

GRACE LIKE RAIN (A Heart of San Francisco Novella)

THE GIFT OF GRACE

A WHISPER OF HOPE (An O’Connor Christmas Novella)

GIVEAWAY: Ms. Lessman has graciously offered the gift of (3) Three e-books. Each Winner Has The Choice of Any (1) One of These Outstanding Novellas. 

When Angels Cry by MaryLu Tyndall - Guest Review by Noela Nancarrow

Guest Review by Noela Nancarrow
of

WHEN ANGELS CRY*

by MaryLu Tyndall

Ransom Press (April 3, 2017)

5 Stars *****

Thrilling End-Time Drama!

If you were to read only one more book this year, then hands down this should be the one. For when a novel is so powerful and compelling that it has the potential to save and transform lives, all while delivering a fast-paced, unpredictable, suspenseful romance…then it is not a book to be missed!

Set in the not-too-distant future, the world as we know it is drawing near to a dramatic end. Biblically prophesied signs and wonders are shaking the world, and yet many continue to live in deception soaking up the lies of the world. Including the world-famous charismatic pastor Daniel Cain, who preaches a diluted gospel to thousands, unaware his own light has also drastically weakened. Daniel still cares deeply for ex-girlfriend Angelica, but he refuses to listen to her and her friends who illegally witness on the beach. He knows if he is not careful, she could bring his charmed life crashing down. So what will it take to bring him to his knees before the Almighty? 

Angelica knows God’s voice well, sees easily into the spiritual realm, and frequently receives visions. But when God tells her to speak warnings to Daniel, the man who broke her heart, she struggles to obey. Angelica has a strong faith, but like many of us she also has flaws and weaknesses. When dire threats and terrifying danger begin to overwhelm Angelica and she is fully tested by her greatest weakness—can she find the faith to overcome?

MaryLu Tyndall’s ‘When Angels Cry’, gripped my spirit and instilled within me a renewed passion to pray for the lost. It was also a much needed reminder of the principalities and powers in high places that persuade and deceive the masses. This battle of light and dark is so very real! The author of this book helps us to see the unseen. End-time scriptures scattered throughout and at the conclusion will have you devouring the Word anew. For all that I thank you, MaryLu Tyndall. This book has an exciting Peretti flavour and a chilling relevancy to current times! Highly recommended!!

When Angels Cry by MaryLu Tyndall

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review.

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*Click on the link on the title or the book cover to be taken to Amazon to purchase your copy.

GIVEAWAY: MaryLu Tyndall is generously giving away TWO giveaways! Simply read the review and leave a comment for your chance to WIN one of two giveaways of either an AUDIO CD of MaryLu Tyndall’s last release, ‘She walks in Power’, OR an E-BOOK of ‘Charity's Cross’! Let me know your preference. And be sure to leave your email so that we can notify you should you win!

The Wedding Shop by Rachel Hauck -- Audiobook Review

The Wedding Shop by Rachel Hauck -- Audiobook Review

A Thought-Provoking Listen

The narration by Windy Lanzi was very good on this unusual story. As with the other wedding stories in this series, there is a dual timeline. So there is a Christian historical romance and a contemporary romance. Both heroines, however, are struggling with some similar issues. Rachel Hauck does a great job of weaving some surprising backstory elements into the novel.

A heavy topic is addressed in this book -- adultery/infidelity. Also, abandonment both emotionally, by a loved one, and physically, is a theme.

I struggled with the historic romance heroine's commitment to a man that her closest friends were encouraging her to forget about. But she's pretty much "Stupid-in-Love" and sometimes that happens.   Not addressed much in Christian fiction, but this obsessive love with blinders on happens, and can have terrible consequences. Without the second contemporary storyline carrying it forward, with that heroine struggling with, but regretting and repenting of her bad decisions, I may have abandoned the listen. But the two stories are interwoven and sometimes harsh situations need to have some light shed upon them.

This listen will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride. You'll be booing some characters and cheering on others. You'll get angry with the author and then be thrilled later with how she skillfully takes the characters through their arcs. One of the marks of a well-written book is how unforgettable it is and The Wedding Shop will make a mark on the reader, who will recall the novel's powerful messages long after they've finished the novel.

I purchased my audiobook of The Wedding Shop by Rachel Hauck as an audible.com download.  This story is available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook. Available at Christian bookstores and is an ECPA Bestseller.

GIVEAWAY: Continuing the Barbour-palooza I have another Barbour collection to give away. It is DIANA FLOWERS' birthday on December 20th. To enter for the giveaway please leave her a birthday wish!

Tearoom for Two by Susan Page Davis - Review & Giveaway

Tearoom for Two by Susan Page Davis from Guidepost Books

Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Susan Page Davis kicks off the Guidepost Books' Tearoom mystery collection. 

From the Guideposts' website: In Guideposts Books' new series, Tearoom Mysteries, you'll explore a quaint Maine village near picturesque Lake Chickadee and join in the fun of solving mysteries alongside a pair of cousins who frequently find themselves in situations that require perseverance and faith. The series begins with Tearoom for Two and continues with Tea Rose. 

Various authors continue the story of two fifty-something ladies who set up a tea shop in their home town. 

This is a lovely hardcover book. Guideposts always does their books up so beautifully!  Susan Page Davis is an established author and fan favorite. She pens a sweet but also sinister story set in Maine, where she was raised! I always love it when an author really knows the setting for a book and Susan knows Maine!  I could almost smell the cookies and muffins baking in the shop! This book will make you hungry!

I purchased my book through Guideposts, which is where others can obtain a copy. (click here.)

Giveaway: Very gently used copy of this lovely hardcover book. Leave a comment about your favorite mystery series and why you want to read Susan's story!

Reviews & Giveaways of Ruth Logan Herne's Latest Books!

BONNIE REVIEWS 

'HER UNEXPECTED FAMILY' AND 'THE FIRST GIFT' 

BY RUTH LOGAN HERNE 

5 STARS EACH BOOK

'HER UNEXPECTED FAMILY'

When ex-beauty-queen Emily Gallagher is hired to plan a wedding for Grant McCarthy's deployed sister, Christa- losing her own heart isn't a part of her plans. An over-protective single parent of toddler twins, Timmy and Dolly, Grant struggles with his faith and holds bitterness towards the appearance-obsessed mother of his children and a father who deserted him when he was a child. Divorced from a rich, self-absorbed husband, Emily relies on her faith and past experiences to put her life back together.

'Her Unexpected Family' is a beautiful story of love, hope, forgiveness, redemption, second chances, and faith. Tim and Dolly stole my reader's heart while Emily and Grant's story gave  me inspiration!!

'THE FIRST GIFT'

The story of 5 year-old Cassie Carruthers, from a northern Appalachian community, who is verbally abused and neglected by an alcoholic and drug-addicted father, 'The First Gift' is also the story of 27 year-old Kerry McHenry, the kindergarten teacher and woman of faith who sees her own past in Cassie's present and is attracted to two men: self-absorbed doctor of oncology, Ryan O'Donnell and widowed Deputy Jake Slattery who hasn't forgiven God for the accident which claimed the life of his wife and left him with two small children to raise. When the lives of Kerry, Ryan, and Jake intersect in an effort to save the life of Cassie - Kerry is forced to make some life-altering personal decisions of her own.

Ruth Logan Herne is one of those gifted authors who borrows from her own past experiences in the writing of her stories - filling them with gut-wrenching emotional scenes, real-life situations, and endearing characters. 'The First Gift' includes heart-pounding suspense and addresses the subject of racial diversity. Through it we are also reminded of God's grace and love and the impact one person can have in the life of a child. A beautiful story that captured my heart from page one with it's characters - who remain there!!

Bio and Purchase links:

Her Unexpected Family at Amazon  

The First Gift at Amazon 

Multi-published, bestselling author Ruth Logan Herne is living her dream of writing sweet books that make people smile and sigh and sometimes cry... but they're good tears! She loves stories of forgiveness and redemption with unforgettable characters from beginning to end. Friend her on facebook/Ruth Logan Herne where she loves to chat and pray with folks, and on Twitter she's @RuthLoganHerne... or visit her website at http:ruthloganherne.com or visit her at these fun blogs: www.ruthysplace.com, www.yankeebellecafe.blogspot.com or over in Seekerville at www.seekerville.blogspot.com

Giveaways: Ruthy will provide two copies of Her Unexpected Family and one copy of The First Gift as giveaways on Bonnie’s reviews! Thank you Ruthy! Winner's choice in all three if in the U.S., e-Book if international.

Interview with Christine A. Henderson

Christine A. Henderson, welcome to Overcoming With God. We appreciate your willingness to share your testimony of overcoming with our readers. 

Would you tell us about one of the most difficult things in your life you have had to overcome, with God's help?

One of the most difficult times in my life was when both my husband and I lost our jobs and my

dad died suddenly. This all occurred within a three week period. For many people, that would be

enough to cause them to go into a deep depression. However, I found peace and comfort during

that time. Now I don’t want you to think I walked around with a halo on my head and was totally

serene. I did have my tears and grief, but I grew closer to God and had no doubt that he was with

me.

I’ve often heard from other committed Christians that they know he is very near in times of crisis. Our senior pastor is Max Lucado and one of his teaching series included learning this prayer… "I’ll get through this. It won’t be painless. It won’t be quick, but God will use this mess for good. I won’t be foolish or naïve, but I won’t despair either. With God’s help, I will get through this."

What passages in the Bible have been most helpful to you in those times?

For me, Psalm 23 and Psalm 91 are words of hope and strength.

What helped you get through or helped you cope with this difficulty?

I like being immersed with Christian Praise music such as Mandisa’s “He is with you” or “Blessings” by Laura Story and “Fall Apart by Josh Wilson. Each of these songs shows me ways to refocus and connect with God.

In addition, we all need a good support group and that comes with having relationships with other Christians who can pray for us and guide us though our difficulties. I had that plus family to see me through tough times.

Question you’d like to ask readers:

How do you share the hope of God’s salvation with others who don’t know Christ as their

Savior?