Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Where Trees Touch the Sky by Karen Barnett hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

MY REVIEW:

I have always enjoyed Karen Barnett’s books that give her readers a glimpse of the history of our National Parks. Where Trees Touch the Sky was a welcome addition to my library. A split time novel, the narrative tells the stories of a modern park ranger and her aunt who played a role in establishing the Redwood National  Park.

Rich in details, the book portrays the battle between big lumber companies and the conservationists who wanted to save the giant trees. Marion was dedicated to saving the forest but her romance with the son of a lumber mill owner forced her to make choices that would change her life. Years later, her niece Jane became a ranger in the National Park that was partially established due to Marion’s efforts. Handicapped by a bout with polio, Jane is determined to prove herself capable. Her pride in her aunt leads her to a joint effort to produce a film about Marion’s life that reveals secrets Marion would rather keep hidden.

Where Trees Touch the Sky is an enjoyable read filled with imperfect characters who nevertheless desire to be their best. It is a tale of perseverance, dedication, and faith with a touch of romance in both eras. A surprise or two should please most readers of this inspirational story.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Title: Where Trees Touch the Sky Series: National Parks Author: Karen Barnett Publisher: Kregel Release Date: August 13, 2024 Genre: Christian Fiction, Dual Timeline

Some secrets have shadows as long as the redwoods are tall.

In the early 1920s, the accelerating destruction of the California redwoods is more than nature-loving Marion Baker can bear. Throwing herself headlong into the work of the Save the Redwoods League, she is shocked to learn that Frank Duncan, a man she’s grown to love, is the son of one of the area’s worst timber barons. Though devastated by the betrayal, she realizes this could also be an opportunity–if only she can convince him to help preserve her favorite grove from his father’s greedy grasp. Is her love strong enough to persuade him to save these precious trees? Or will Marion choose to sacrifice her beliefs to keep Frank by her side?

Nearly fifty years later, in 1972, polio survivor June Turner is deeply proud of the legacy her great aunt Marion has left as a redwood warrior. And despite her disability, June is determined to prove herself capable as a ranger at the recently established Redwood National Park, even if it means taking to the trails with her crutch in hand. What better way to carry on the family tradition of preserving God?s magnificent creation?

When aspiring film student Adam Garner approaches June to help make a documentary about Marion’s life, she swiftly grabs the opportunity to spread her aunt’s worthy reputation. That is, until they unearth a secret that might shatter the family legacy. In the scramble for answers, June may lose not only her family pride but also her own dreams.

Karen Barnett’s beautifully crafted split-time novel, set against the majestic backdrop of a beloved national park, immerses the reader in history that feels as fresh as if it happened yesterday.

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of eight novels including When Stone Wings Fly and The Vintage National Parks Novels. A former national park ranger, she’s also a hobby photographer and enjoys teaching writing workshops with both Cascade Christian Writers and West Coast Christian Writers. She and her family live in Albany, Oregon.

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

GIVEAWAY:

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Where Trees Touch the Sky and book related goodies!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 14, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 21, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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

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MY REVIEW:

I have read several books by Heather Day Gilbert and enjoyed them all. Queen of Hearts is more of a psychological suspense tale than the others but  wow, what a story!

In it best-selling romantic suspense novelist Alexandra Dubois is haunted by a stalker. When things escalate Alexandra finally agrees to hide out at the remote cabin offered by her editor. Strange events continue at the cabin that cause Alexandra to doubt her sanity and wonder if her stalker has found her again.

Queen of Hearts is masterfully crafted with so many twists and surprises as well as mounting suspense with each page that I couldn’t put it down. I honestly was astonished by the revelation at the end. I thought Alexandra’s character was well rounded and found her autistic actions to be quite believable.

If you enjoy psychological suspense, please take a chance on Queen of Hearts. I believe you will not be disappointed.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Netgalley. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Heather Day Gilbert, an RWA Daphne du Maurier Award winner and 2-time ECPA Christy Award finalist, enjoys writing contemporary mysteries with unpredictable twists, much like the Agatha Christie books she read growing up. She also writes Viking historicals. Her novels feature small towns, family relationships, and women who aren’t afraid to protect those they love. Find out more at heatherdaygilbert.com.

MY REVIEW:

Flashback is the third installment of the exciting Chasing Fire: Montana series created by bestselling authors Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips. Although it works perfectly well as a standalone, the novel also has a continuing storyline that benefits from having read the previous books in the series.

A dangerous wildfire is approaching and the campsite has been ordered to evacuate but two young boys are missing. Allie Monroe refuses to leave until the boys are found and hopes that her search and rescue dog will help her find them. Unfortunately, because she is still mourning the death of her previous SAR dog, Allie has not bonded with her current dog. To make it even more difficult, Dakota Masterson has joined her search and because Allie is aware of his past, she is not certain she can trust him.

Flashback is filled with danger and action almost from the very first page until its conclusion. The imagery is so vivid that the reader can almost hear the approaching fire and feel its heat. Other complications along the way increase the danger level and add to the suspense. Flawed characters experienced spiritual growth as they learned to forgive themselves as well as how to accept God’s forgiveness and help.

This series continues to get better and I look forward to reading it all. I hope you will also.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Sunrise Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

SECRETS. BETRAYAL. SACRIFICE.
THIS TIME, THEY’RE NOT JUST FIGHTING FIRE.

An original series created by bestselling authors Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips.

He’s the last person she wants to see…

Allie Monroe is desperate for a fresh start. Grieving the loss of her first SAR dog, she’s gone to Montana to train her new K9, Scout. And when two boys go missing during a wildfire, she’s brought on board to find them.

But the one person tasked to help her is the last person she wants to see—arrogant and dangerous Dakota Masterson.

It’ll take exactly this man to save everything she loves.

Former SWAT officer Dakota Masterson is a new man after confronting the demons of his past, including his first unfortunate meeting with Allie. But admittedly, she’s the last person he thought he’d see again…or have to work with. Still, maybe this is his chance to prove to her that he’s a different man—because she’s the one woman he can’t seem to forget.

However, with the flames closing in, finding the boys might mean confronting the painful memories of their short-lived relationship. Then, Allie’s dog goes missing, suddenly someone is shooting at them, and they find themselves in a race against a wildfire and a threat that wants them dead. More, when Allie goes missing, Dakota’s past—and his issues—come roaring back.

It’ll take the SWAT officer in him to save the day, but will it cost them a future they both long for?

Get ready to be swept away in a world where survival, redemption, and second chances collide in book three of the Chasing Fire: Montana series.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

After growing up on both the east and west coasts, Michelle now loves living the country life in central Minnesota with her own hero and four children. She rocks out to 80’s music on a Saturday night, enjoys playing board games, and is a hopeless romantic. And if you’re wondering, yes, Sass is her maiden name.

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Cold Vengeance by Nancy Mehl hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

MY REVIEW:

What a chilling conclusion to Nancy Mehl’s Ryland & St. Clair series! Cold Vengeance continues the search for the accomplice of the Salt River Strangler by private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair while investigating a new case of the disappearance of a popular podcaster. River is still haunted by her previous experiences with the strangler and escalating threats as they work on their new case make them wonder if there might just be a connection.

Nancy Mehl has once again given her readers a thriller that will make them wonder what is coming next. Well rounded characters and vivid imagery are blended with just the right amount of action, danger, romance, and faith to make Cold Vengeance a satisfying read. Multiple twists and surprises led to a most satisfying finale. I also enjoyed watching as the relationship of River and Tony developed as they faced ever increasing danger.

I would definitely recommend Cold Vengeance but suggest beginning with the first book and reading the entire series to get the entire story.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Title: Cold Vengeance Series: Ryland & St. Clair #3 Author: Nancy Mehl Publisher: Bethany House Publishers Release Date: July 16, 2024 Genre: Romantic Suspense

When a renowned crime podcaster vanishes without a trace, former FBI behavioral analysts turned private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are called upon to track her down. As they wade through the evidence she left behind, they unearth a startling connection–she may have discovered the existence of an unknown serial killer, and he will stop at nothing to carry out a deadly plan.

As the pair delves deeper, they soon find themselves the target of a relentless enemy determined to silence them. With their lives–and hearts–on the line, can they confront the evil that threatens them before it consumes them both?

USA Today bestselling author Nancy Mehl brings her Ryland & St. Clair series to an explosive close with a pulse-pounding story where the stakes are high and silence is deadly.

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

MORE BOOKS FROM THIS SERIES:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Mehl is the author of more than fifty books, a Parable and ECPA bestseller, and the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, a Carol Award, and the Daphne du Maurier Award. She has also been a finalist for the Christy Award. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson.

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

GIVEAWAY:

(1) winner will receive the complete paperback set of the Ryland & St. Clair series and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight July 24, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 31, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

MY REVIEW:

I have been a fan of the novels of Mary Connealy for a number of years and each one seems to be better than the last if that is even possible. Toward the Dawn was no exception. Book two in the Western Light series, this marriage of convenience tale has more twists and turns than a mountain road and I adored every minute reading it.

Toward the Dawn features Kat Wadsworth and Sebastian Jones who have had enough of living in isolation in the secluded, hidden valley where they have been snowed in all winter with their traveling companions. Much as they care about the others, Kat and Seb have places to go and things to do. They decide that marriage might be the sensible thing to do and together they leave the valley as soon as the snow pack melts enough to allow them to do so.

In typical Connealy fashion, the pair settle down to a peaceful life together but soon find that trouble has found them again. Will they be able to escape the dangerous men on their trail and will their marriage become more than just a convenience? What fun would it be if I told you? Grab a copy for yourself and join the adventure. Be sure to pick up volume one too if you haven’t read it. I don’t think you will be sorry if you do.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Despite trials that threaten their path forward, hope dawns for a future filled with love.

Kat Wadsworth and Sebastian Jones never imagined their lives would entwine so closely. Forced to flee on a wagon train from a vengeful uncle and an unknown gunman, they live in a hidden canyon with the family that rescued them. But as the days turn into months, they each have separate reasons for wanting to move back to society, and the best way to the independence they desperately crave might be through a marriage of convenience.

However, settling into their homestead in Cheyenne, Wyoming, reveals a different reality for Kat. Her new husband becomes consumed by his inventions, leaving her feeling lonely and isolated. And just when they think they’ve left the danger behind, a mysterious attacker lurks in the shadows, threatening the new life they’ve built. Together, they must confront the perils from their pasts to forge a future with hope and the prospect of love.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Connealy writes “romantic comedies with cowboys” and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has sold more than 1.5 million books and is the author of the popular series Wyoming Sunrise and The Lumber Baron’s Daughters and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Learn more at MaryConnealy.com.

MY REVIEW:

Moonlight on the Mississippi was one of those books that I wish could have lasted a bit longer. With its well developed and unique characters, unexpected plot twists, plenty of adventure and danger, an unhurried romance, and a good dose of faith, I could have kept reading for awhile.

I loved the interaction between Steamboat Captain Camilla Lockhart and lawyer Daniel Gray. They were such a contrast. Camilla was a smart and sassy young woman who had spent most of her life on the river with her father. When he died, she took over his steamboat and met Daniel when he contracted her to help his find the hidden treasure his father told him about. Their adventure together included not only the search for treasure but encounters with bootleggers, river pirates, and one disaster after another.

Did they find the treasure? I won’t tell but I did enjoy every minute of their adventure and was quite pleased by the final outcome. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy soon.

I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

A lost treasure, a mysterious disappearance, and a deadly family secret—but winning her heart might be the real challenge.

Steamboat Captain Camilla Lockhart discovers a handsome stranger on board with an offer he claims she can’t refuse. If he thinks she will get involved in another hopeless treasure quest, he’s lost his sunbaked mind. Not after what happened to her father. But with her boat falling apart and her crew about to starve, Mr. Gray’s unusual proposal might be her only hope.

Daniel Gray inherited a host of problems, including a clue that could unlock old family secrets and a treasure that’s long since faded to lore. His father left him with only one name—Lockhart. But when he hires the striking, yet unconventional, steamboat captain to help him navigate the treacherous waters of the Mississippi River, he never expects his heart to get tangled in the currents.

With a criminal operation’s net tightening around them, the two must battle against time to uncover a lost family treasure and solve a mysterious disappearance before the men hunting them from the shadows discover the dangerous truth.

From an award-winning author of bestselling historical fiction comes a thrilling series of River Romances.

The roaring twenties come alive in this captivating romantic adventure filled with love, deception, and high-stakes discovery. If you enjoy clean historical romance with elements of faith, you’ll be sure to love this thrilling river journey.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Stephenia H. McGee is a multi-published author of stories of faith, hope, and healing set in the Deep South. She lives in Mississippi, where she is a mom of two rambunctious boys, writer, dreamer, and husband spoiler. Her novel The Cedar Key was a 2021 Faith, Hope, and Love Readers’ Choice award winner. A member of the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), she loves all things books and history. Stephenia also loves connecting with readers and can often be found having fun with her Faithful Readers Team on Facebook. For more on books and upcoming events and to connect with Stephenia, visit her at www.StepheniaMcGee.com.