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Series Spotlight — Faith Valley by Betsy Ramsey

10 Oct

I love an indie bookstore! Book Bound Bookstore in Blairsville, Georgia has it going on! With adult and kids book clubs, fun events for readers, and book signings, it is the perfect place for all your bookish dreams to come true! About a month ago I had the pleasure of attending a book signing for Shadowy Past, book 2 in the Faith Valley series by Betsy Ramsey. Not only did I get a signed copy of a book, I came home with lunch! Featured in the book are recipes that were re-created by The Bean Pod Shoppe, another fabulous small town gem.

Two books are available in this small town mystery series — Shadowy Love and Shadowy Past. Find out all the details below. And if you are ever in Blairsville, Georgia, make sure to put Book Bound Bookstore and The Bean Pod Shoppe on you itinerary!

Living in a small town can be sad, funny, educational and inspiring. Faith Valley is a peaceful community in the North Georgia mountains. Identical twins and their husbands appear to have taken early retirement from federal jobs. They are actually agents who work undercover when called out on assignments. Their code name is MC4. Trying to keep a secret in a small town is a challenge, but so far their true identities are safe. The first crime involves a break in and a cast iron skillet. Then, a woman and her children relocate to escape an obsessed stalker. Other crimes occur and a 40 year old cold case is solved using a different technique. Before it is over, all will be tested. Love may also be in the air as the local church has hired a young, handsome and single Music Minister. The casserole brigade is in full swing. Between waiting to see if the stalker will appear, the MC4 team going on assignments, possible romances, and other crimes, the locals are trying to understand what is happening to their town. When it is all over, will peace reign once more?

Welcome back to Faith Valley. The small, North Georgia town recovered from all that happened last fall and now spring is on the way. Amelia and Celia, identical twins, and their husbands Ryan and Mac, are secret federal agents known as the MC4 team. The retirees continue to go on ‘vacations’ to work undercover and catch criminals. Who is the Mystery Angel who is providing needed funds to the community and individuals? Live is in the air but an abusive ex-husband returns to the area with a dangerous plan to get his ex-wife back. Other criminals plan to disturb the peaceful town. Will they succeed?

**********************

Betsy Ramsey did not realize that she had been blessed with a criminal mind until she began assisting victims of crime. Through divine intervention she has an amazing career that includes becoming a founder of a domestic violence program, traveling across America and to Canada to train law enforcement and other professionals on stalking, responding to provide crisis intervention at the Olympic Bomb in Atlanta in 1996, to Washington, DC after 9/11 and to other acts of violence. She is part of a team that meets with representatives of other countries as they prepare for an International event and/or the possibility of terrorist attacks. She is also an expert with The Cold Case Investigative Research Institute (CCIRI), a non-profit that is based at Argosy University in Atlanta, GA and is comprised of colleges across the United States. She co-authored a college textbook entitled Cold Case – Pathways to Justice with Sheryl McCollum. 

Betsy has developed a danger radar and talks about signs of danger in her stalking training. An attendee at a conference said that if she dropped her napkin at lunch and reached down to pick it up, half the room would dive under the table because they would think she was taking cover. She developed a stalking protocol for the State of Georgia and is the recipient of numerous local, state and national awards and recognition.

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Art of Writing Conference 2022

10 Oct

Art of Writing Conference JustRead Takeover Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for the Art of Writing Conference organized by ECPA, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

A QUICK NOTE ABOUT THE CHRISTY AWARD FINALISTS

Christian fiction fans are invited to register and watch the free webcast announcement of The Christy Award finalists in each category live on October 11 at 11 am (CDT), featuring award-winning novelist and radio host Chris Fabry and ECPA president Jeff Crosby.

Registration is available at ecpa.org/event/Christy22Finalists

ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

The Art of Writing conference will be held from 12:30-5 pm (CDT) on November 17 at Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, and is designed to bring Christian writers, creatives, storytellers, and publishing curators together for a half-day of intensive seminars that: celebrate the creative life while recognizing the weariness; provide practical tips for engaging in a rapidly-changing industry; introduce challenges to become better writers; and answer the questions authors are asking.

The four-session conference will bring together writers, creatives, and publishing curators for training and connection around these topics presented by industry experts, authors, and publishers:

Carrie Schmidt Kelsey Bowen Cynthia Ruchti Jamie Lapeyrolerie

What Makes a Gush-Worthy Book with book reviewer Carrie Schmidt, Revell senior acquisitions editor Kelsey Bowen, author and agent Cynthia Ruchti, and WaterBrook editor Jamie Lapeyrolerie.

Edwina Perkins Deborah Gonzalez Dorena Williamson Jeff Crosby Jevon Bolden

How Reading Diverse Books Makes Us Better Authors and Humans with a panel of writers, agents, and publishers including Edwina Perkins, Deborah Gonzalez, Dorena Williamson, Jeff Crosby, and Jevon Bolden who share their own stories and best practices through this approach

Emilie Haney Kristi Ann Hunter

To Tok or Not to Tok with reel pros Emilie Haney (pen name Bell Renshaw) and author/ podcaster Kristi Ann Hunter

Carolyn Weber

When Weary & Discouraged: How We Can Care for Our Writing Souls with author Carolyn Weber, whose debut book Surprised by Oxford, is being made into a feature film

REGISTER: The Art of Writing conference $99 | The Art of Writing conference + The Christy Awards Gala Bundle $139

 

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive their choice of one ticket to the Art of Writing conference OR print copies of The Christy Award finalist titles from one category!

Art of Writing Conference JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 10, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 17, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

REGISTER FOR THE CHRISTY AWARD 2022 EVENTS

The Christy Award Finalist Reveal Webinar on October 11 at 11 am CT FREE
Christian fiction fans are encouraged to watch the announcement live!
SIGN UP

Art of Writing on November 17, 12:30-5 pm at Lipscomb University in Nashville $99
A conference for writers, storytellers, and publishing curators.

The Christy Award Gala on November 17, 7-9 pm at Lipscomb University in Nashville $89
Celebrate this year’s finalists and winners with authors, editors, publishers, and readers!

Bundle the Art of Writing Conference & The Christy Award Gala $139

REGISTER

The Christy Award® is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) and is the foremost award honoring and promoting excellence in Christian fiction since 1999. For more information about ECPA, visit ECPA.org. For more information about the Christy Awards and Art of Writing conferences, visit ChristyAwards.com or email TheChristyAward@ecpa.org

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Book Tour + Giveaway! — Bookshop of Secrets

8 Oct

The Bookshop of Secrets Just Read Blog Tour
Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Bookshop of Secrets by Mollie Rushmeyer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Bookshop of Secrets

Title: The Bookshop of Secrets
Author: Mollie Rushmeyer
Publisher: Love Inspired Trade
Release Date: October 25, 2022
Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Romance

A collection of lost books holds the clues to her family’s legacy…and her future.

Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family’s history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope’s last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.

Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she’s lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub

EXCERPT

The strangest thing about The Histories of Women: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Female Life and Mind was that it wasn’t a book at all. When Hope had opened it last night, handwritten words greeted her inside. A woman named Grace Holloway seemed to have had the book created to use as her journal. Hope became taken with the woman’s writing and the woman herself. The journal was a fascinating glimpse into her 1895 life. 

On the inside cover, Grace had inscribed in slanting, elegant script: 

This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be created shall praise the LORD.” Psalm 102:18. 

The birds welcomed Saturday morning with their songs despite the cold, as though willing the weather to match the date on the calendar. Tomorrow would be May. Mags had given Hope the day off since she’d be home with Ulysses. Plus, Hope had worked the full week through. 

In celebration of finding her grandma’s book and her first week of work, she told them she’d make a special dinner that night. She’d already gone to the grocery store and couldn’t wait to test some literary-themed dishes on them—some potential menu items for the mobile café she dreamed of. But the meal prep could wait. 

The chill of the ice-cold boulder beneath her leached into her skin, her bones. A shiver disturbed the gigantic diary balanced on her lap. From her spot on the lakeshore, Dusty Jackets was behind her and up the hill, and the whole of Arrowhead Bay was spread out to either side. 

She’d found the bay mesmerizing yet disconcerting at times, with the hollowed rock “face” of Lost Lover’s Island sneering back at her. And with the water always doing as it pleased. Sometimes fierce, pummeling the rocks so hard it sounded like a thunderstorm. Sometimes gentle with barely a whisper against the pebbled shore. It took orders from no one. Today, the waves lapped quietly at her feet, white foam gathering at the edges like the world’s largest bathtub. 

Tendrils from the braid she’d twisted into a bun tickled her cheeks as she read in Grace’s journal.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mollie Rushmeyer

Mollie Rushmeyer writes contemporary romantic fiction with a blend of modern settings and fascinating historical elements. A born and bred Midwestern gal, Mollie makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband and two beautiful daughters. She is not only a bibliophile (the dustier the better, in her opinion), she’s a true Britophile at heart. Tea and coffee fuel her travels, by Google maps at least, and her passion for the written word.

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

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card.

The Bookshop of Secrets JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 4, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 11, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Blog Tour + Giveaway! — Elite Guardians Series

5 Oct

Elite Guardians JustRead Blog Tour
Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Elite Guardians Collection by Lynette Eason, Kate Angelo, Sami A. Abrams, and Kelly Underwood, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOKS

Dive into the exciting ignition to the Elite Guardians Collection.

Driving Force

Title: Driving Force
Series: Elite Guardians Collection #1
Authors: Lynette Eason and Kate Angelo
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: March 22, 2022
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

He’s the last client she wants to protect…

Elite Guardians bodyguard/former sniper CHRISTINA SHERMAN has protected uncooperative clients before—but this time, well her client is bossy, headstrong and occasionally eats off the floor. Yes, he’s a highly trained military working dog, but certainly her skills could be put to better use, right?

Not according to former Special Forces Air Commando GREY PARKER. He needs her help to protect his dog while he undergoes an experimental surgery that could restore his ability to walk. He just needs someone to keep his canine partner safe. Most of all, Grey wants back on his feet so he can track down a deranged scientist known as The Scavenger who unleashed a nerve agent that left Grey sidelined in a wheelchair.

When an attempt is made on Grey’s life, and dead bodies begin piling up—with evidence the same toxin is responsible—suddenly Christina is tasked with keeping both dog and soldier alive…and with them, the secrets that could stop a terrorist attack.

But this time, even Christina might be in over her head.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | BookBub | Christian Book

Another edge-of-your-seat Elite Guardians thriller!

Impending Strike

Title: Impending Strike
Series: Elite Guardians Collection #2
Authors: Lynette Eason and Sami A. Abrams
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: June 28, 2022
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Protecting him just might cost her everything…

Elite Guardian Charlie Lee knows that there is no future with the woman he loves—fellow Guardian Lizzie Tremaine. And, he gets it—as a single mom, Lizzie has to protect her daughter. But more than anything, he wants the chance to prove himself.

Then, the unthinkable happens—while working undercover, Charlie is seriously injured…and his memory of the past four years is lost. Could it be the fresh start that he didn’t realize he longed for?

Despite a friendship that’s turned flirtatious at times, Lizzie Tremaine has held Charlie at arms’ length. She’s lost all the men she’s ever loved, and is unwilling to risk her heart again. Still, she’s glad to keep an eye on him—as his bodyguard—and while she’s at it, help him put the pieces of his past together, including discovering who attacked him, and why.

But Charlie seems to have forgotten their agreed-upon professional distance—and suddenly, all the rules are off the table. She’s seeing a side of Charlie she could possibly let into her heart. Problem is, the closer he gets to uncovering his memories, the closer he gets to trouble.

It’s her heart…or his life. What will protecting Charlie cost her?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub | Christian Book

Book three of the riveting, high-octane world of the Elite Guardians reboot!

Defending Honor

Title: Defending Honor
Series: Elite Guardians Collection #3
Authors: Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: October 4, 2022
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

She’ll have to pretend to be his wife to save his life…but what will it cost her heart?

Laila Rabbinowitz is all business. Tough and stoic, she was the perfect Mossad agent…until a terrible betrayal led to her worst nightmare. Being a bodyguard with the Elite Guardians allows her to keep her heart safe—she’ll never let anyone close enough to betray her again. And she’s certainly not going to trust anyone who doesn’t earn it.

Billionaire and former playboy Preston Whittaker walked away from his famous family after a terrible event, but then his father and brother are killed in a suspicious boating accident. Since he’s next in line to helm the family business, now someone wants him dead. Preston needs someone by his side 24/7, and the only solution is a fake marriage.

In order to keep him safe, Laila will have to convince everyone that she and Preston are in love. She’s used to putting her life on the line for a client. But what will this case cost her heart?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound

EXCERPT OF DEFENDING HONOR

Chapter 1

SUNDAY, 7:00 P.M.

Laila Rabbinowitz tossed the binoculars onto the passenger seat and stifled a shudder. Jesse Cora, the man she was charged with protecting, had turned out to be a lying creep who didn’t give a second thought about stepping out on his marriage.

Ten showers couldn’t wash off the disgust smothering her like a blanket. But as a professional bodyguard, she didn’t get paid to judge people’s actions.

She just had to keep the man breathing. Once his wife got ahold of him…well, that wasn’t Laila’s problem.

Anabelle Cora was the one footing the bill for the protection detail. The wealthy woman’s fourth husband had received suspicious text messages from an alleged stalker. When his wife had pressed him to be careful, Jesse had dismissed the danger. Worried sick, Anabelle had hired a bodyguard from the Elite Guardians Agency and simply not told him.

Covert operations weren’t Laila’s favorite. She’d done enough stakeouts in her former role as a Mossad agent. Memories sprang up but were instantly dismissed. She’d long since left that life behind after moving to Columbia, South Carolina, to take a job with the Elite Guardians.

“Do not let him catch you following him,” Anabelle had warned her after their first meeting.

“Of course not,” Laila had promised. Which was why she found herself in this unpleasant situation—hiding out in her car, stalking the man she was supposed to protect from a stalker.

Jesse had told his wife he’d be working late but had instead headed to a hotel to rendezvous with a woman who appeared to be a much younger blonde wearing a little black dress and three-inch spiked heels.

Laila sighed. Why wasn’t Anabelle suspicious of a husband that worked late on a Sunday evening? The woman would rather believe her husband was being stalked than admit the truth.

Babysitting the rich and elite ranked right up there with getting a root canal, but Laila had found a parking spot in front of the swanky hotel with an excellent view of the penthouse suite and waited. The hotel looked like it would cost more than her monthly rent for a one-night stay. At least they hadn’t opted for some pay-by-the-hour seedy place.

Movement from the room made her reach for the binoculars. People should close their blinds. Thankfully, Jesse and his mistress didn’t bother. Not that she wanted a front row seat to this show, but another peek through the binoculars confirmed her initial impression. Jesse was a money-grubbing cheat. He crossed through the room and wrapped his arms around the woman who clearly wasn’t his wife.

Laila didn’t want to watch any more, but she traded the binoculars for a high-powered zoom lens and snapped a few incriminating shots. If Jesse denied his actions, well…

The philandering trophy husband was half the age of Anabelle.

Again, not your problem, Laila. Do your job and keep your opinions out of it.

Her stiff shoulders begged for a good workout. What she wouldn’t give to be in the boxing ring at the gym, releasing some of her pent-up energy by sparring with anyone who dared take her on. 

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Lynette Eason Kate Angelo Sami A Abrams Kelly Underwood

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of Life Flight and the Danger Never Sleeps, Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master’s degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband and two children.

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

Kate Angelo is an author, minister, and public speaker from Southwest Missouri who works alongside her husband strengthening and encouraging marriages and families through their ministry. As the mother of five mostly grown children, she is fluent in both sarcasm and eye rolls-subjects she never intentionally taught while homeschooling. With her chihuahua taking up half of her desk space, she writes suspenseful stories of imperfect people who encounter hope and healing through Jesus. Kate is a tech enthusiast, coffee lover, productivity guru, accomplished knitter, avid boater, prayer warrior, and known klutz.

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

Sami A. Abrams grew up hating to read. It wasn’t until her 30s that she found authors who captured her attention. Now, most evenings you can find her engrossed in a romantic suspense novel. In her opinion, a crime plus a little romance is the recipe for a great story. Sami lives in Northern California, but she will always be a Kansas girl at heart. She has a love of sports, family, and travel. However, a cabin at Lake Tahoe writing her next story is definitely at the top of her list.

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

Kelly Underwood‘s favorite things are reading, writing, and drinking coffee. She was born in New Hampshire, but don’t ask her about snow, because she’s been a Florida girl since she was twelve. She writes book reviews for her blog bestinsuspense.com and is an active member of the Central Florida chapter of the American Christian Fiction Writers. She’s a sucker for a good suspense novel, the kind you have to read cover-to-cover until the mystery is solved and the bad guys are in handcuffs. If you’re looking for her, she’s probably on her back patio with a Kindle in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. Visit her at kellyunderwoodauthor.com

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

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a paperback set of all three Elite Guardians Collection novels, plus an Elite Guardians T-shirt!

Elite Guardians Collection JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 3, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 10, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Book Spotlight — Millstone of Doubt

3 Oct

A Bow Street Runner and a debutante in London Society use their skills to find the killer of a wealthy businessman, but the killer’s secrets aren’t the only ones they will uncover. 

Caught in the explosion of the Hammersmith Mill in London, Bow Street runner Daniel Swann rushes to help any survivors only to find the mill’s owner dead of an apparent gunshot–but no sign of the killer.
Even though the owner’s daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death, she may be the only one. It seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can’t take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage–and his job as a runner–comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his heavenly Father has abandoned him.
Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha’s bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. But when her trusted instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation, Lady Juliette obeys. That is, until circumstances intervene, and she drops right into the middle of the deadly pursuit.

When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case–and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.

**************

EXCERPT

“This way.” Lifting his lapel to cover his mouth and nose, Daniel

made his way under a sagging beam toward the side of the warehouse that faced the river. Outside, a landing and a set of stairs hugged the side of the building, leading to a walkway over the waterwheel and the mill race that had been built to force water over the giant paddles. The wheel turned, but off balance, wobbling as if it had become disconnected from the shaft. Daniel gripped the railing, dizziness overtaking him as he looked down on the moving water.

Get hold of yourself, man. It won’t do for you to lose your head and need rescuing too. He steadied himself, refusing to show weakness in front of the viscount.

The walkway twisted around a corner and, though flat, felt as if it gained in elevation as the ground fell away beneath the supports. When Daniel navigated the water-splashed planks to the bend, his heart rate increased. He had no head for heights. On this side of the building, though the glass had been blown from the windows, no flames appeared. The villagers must be winning against the fire.

At the far end of the walkway, where it terminated against the stone wall, a man lay on his back, head and feet dangling, close to over- balancing and tipping into the river. As Daniel approached, the man stirred.

“Have a care. Don’t fall into the water.” Daniel touched his shoulder. “Easy . . . let me help you.” He put his hand under the man’s elbow and assisted him. “Slowly until you see if you’re injured.”

“What happened?” Grimaces accompanied every movement. “There was an explosion. Part of the mill is on fire, and you must have been knocked unconscious by the blast. Were you out here working on the wheel?”

The man blinked. “An explosion?” He put his hand to his head. “Working on the wheel? Of course, I wasn’t working on the wheel. I’m not a warehouseman.” He tried to straighten his waistcoat, which was too fine to belong to a laborer. “I’m an accountant. A man of numbers.”

Daniel studied the open window above them. “Then Someone was looking out for you, sir. You could have been blown into the water quite easily.” He pointed to the foaming water pouring off the water- wheel. “Let us get you to a less precarious spot.”

“You said it was an explosion?” The man groaned. “Mr. Montgomery was afraid of this, but I never thought they would do it. I thought it was all talk. Threats, nothing more.” The man remained rooted to the walkway, swaying slightly, squinting as if the sunlight reflecting off the water was too bright for his eyes.

Daniel’s attention sharpened. “Threats? Was someone threatening to do something like this?”

Nodding—and then wincing as if he regretted it—he spoke over the sound of the water rushing below. “Luddites. Anarchists. There was a message nailed to the door last week, and there have been others, letters. Mr. Montgomery was bringing in new methods, new machinery, which would increase the production of the mill while reducing the workforce needed to operate it.” Despite his lurching condition, the man paused to puff out his chest a bit and smooth his hair. “At my suggestion, of course. Mr. Montgomery relies upon me heavily for advice and direction in his business affairs.”

“What did the note say? Do you know who left it?” Daniel kept hold of the man’s elbow, but his detective’s curiosity took hold.

The man gripped the handrail and limped along the walkway. “I don’t know who wrote it, only that it promised retribution if we let workers go. It could have been anyone who works here or any of a dozen groups of rabble-rousers who are against progress.”

A hot coal of anger burned hard in Daniel’s gut. His initial hunch was confirmed. Violence to get attention. With no thought of the dam- age done to people and possessions. There would be no flour milled at this site for a long time, if ever again. Every man employed here was now without work. Every family who needed flour would have to find another source.

“Come. We’ll sort it out when we stand on firm ground.” Daniel handed the man up the steps to where Coatsworth waited and followed them both through the warehouse out into the street.

When they finally stood in the lane, Daniel asked, “Your name, sir?” He might prove a useful source of information as the investigation began.

“Mr. Earnshaw. Hubert Earnshaw. I am Mr. Montgomery’s accountant, both personal and business.” He didn’t seem to realize he had already told Daniel his occupation. “I had an appointment with Mr. Montgomery. The hallway from the milling floor was blocked by a cart that had overturned, and men were shoveling spilled flour. The air was thick with dust. I had to go around through the warehouse to enter from that direction. Mr. Coombe was there, carrying a toolbox . . . which is odd, because he doesn’t usually do manual labor. He’s the mill manager.”

“Mr. Earnshaw, where are the offices located? I need to find Montgomery.”

“The hallway to the left.” He pointed into the warehouse. “His office overlooks the race and wheel, though how he can stand the noise is beyond me. He says he likes the sight of the moving water.”

“Right. I’ll go back. Mr. Earnshaw, head that direction, and you’ll find people who can help you.” Daniel pointed up the lane toward where the Thorndike carriage sat at the far end. He caught sight of his cloak, still draped around Lady Juliette. She was bent over someone lying on the ground, and the red sash indicated the man next to her was Duke von Lowe.

Daniel shoved down the uncomfortable feeling in his chest at seeing them together and entered the warehouse once more.

Coatsworth, to his credit, followed Daniel back into the building, and this time they went deeper into the structure, entering the passage that must lead to the offices. At the far end of the stone hallway, shadows moved through the smoke and steam, pouring water on hot spots. Soot streaked the walls of the passageway. The machines and inner workings of the mill must have been destroyed, but perhaps the structure could be saved.

Montgomery would have a long task ahead of him to rebuild.

Two bodies lay in the hallway, strewn atop a pile of half-burned flour sacks that had spilled from a cart. This must be where they had been shoveling the flour Earnshaw mentioned. Daniel checked both men but found no sign of life. The blast must have sucked all the air out of the hallway and tossed them hard against the stone wall. He shook his head at the viscount and checked the office door opposite.

The top half of the door had once contained a glass window, but that opening now gaped. The rest of the door looked as if a sneeze would disintegrate it.

A blizzard of paper—some with charred edges—lay in drifts over every surface, and in the center of the room, sprawled like an abandoned rag doll, lay Mr. Montgomery.

Daniel rattled the door handle, surprised when the door remained firm. It was sturdier than he had thought. He reached through the broken glass to open it from the inside, but nothing happened. Feeling lower, he tried to locate the key, but only the keyhole met his fingertips. “Stand back,” he said to the viscount, who peered over Daniel’s shoulder before shouting “Garfield!” upon seeing Mr. Montgomery on the floor.

Daniel shoved him away, stepped back a pace, and raised his boot, kicking hard at the latch. Thankfully, the door splintered, rocketing open and thudding against the wall before listing on its hinges.

Coatsworth nearly ran Daniel over getting to Montgomery’s side. “Garfield.” He dropped to his knees and took the man’s hand, leaning over to press his ear to his chest.

“Is he alive?” Daniel squatted and touched Montgomery’s neck.

Nothing. He brushed aside some debris, and his hand stilled.

A perfectly round hole perforated Mr. Garfield Montgomery’s forehead.

He had not been pulped by the explosion. He had been shot.

***************

PURCHASE LINKS

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Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.

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Blog Tour + Giveaway! — Covert Danger

29 Sep

Covert Danger JustRead Blog + Review Tour
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Covert Danger by Jerusha Agen, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Covert Danger

Title: Covert Danger
Series: Guardians Unleashed #2
Author: Jerusha Agen
Publisher: SDG Words, LLC
Release Date: September 22, 2022
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

A K-9 protection team. An assassin. Only one can survive.

An assassin is on the loose in the Twin Cities, aiming to kill FBI witnesses the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency is hired to protect. Rogue CIA agent Amalia Pérez and her protection K-9 must get the edge on this deadly opponent before he kills her childhood best friend—the only man who knows her true identity.

Investigative journalist Michael Barrett can’t believe his eyes when the woman he’s spent years searching for walks back into his life. But he soon fears the woman he loved is lost forever beneath the secrets Amalia wears like armor.

As the assassin closes in, Amalia will risk anything to keep Michael safe—anything except believing in the God he trusts. When the layers of deception become as dangerous as bullets, can Amalia and Michael uncover the truth in time to stop the assassin from completing his lethal mission?

EXCERPT

“Trouble?” Michael’s voice, different but familiar at the same time, beckoned Amalia to turn around.

She could leave now. She’d accomplished what she needed to. Activating her radio earpiece, she smiled as she moved toward the door. “Patrol duty.”

Raksa emitted a low rumble.

She jerked toward the K-9.

He stared at the patio doors, his erect ears trained forward. 

“Is he growling at me?” Michael watched the dog with raised eyebrows.

“What is it, boy?”

A bark burst from Raksa’s deep chest, and he lunged toward the doors, hit the end of the leash. He barked and snarled as he pulled hard.

“Get down!” She released the leash, sprinted for Michael. Threw herself into his torso.

A suppressed shot sounded.

Glass splintered as they crashed to the floor.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jerusha Agen

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner, but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies.

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

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card, a signed Covert Danger paperback, plus a Covert Danger mug and swag.

Covert Danger JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 26, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 3, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Happy Release Day! — A Night to Remember

14 Sep

Happy release day to Danny and Wanda Pelfrey. The first book in the new Adairsville Heritage Mystery series, A Night to Remember, is now available. If you are a fan of mysteries set in small towns, then you need to check this one out! Note: the book’s setting is real life Adairsville, Georgia!

Riley Gordan is back in Adairsville, Georgia anticipating a leisurely vacation from the rigors of law school with her college friend, Trish. Then, as part of a political plot, one of her Sunday School girls is kidnapped. Stumbling upon the abduction, Riley and her friends are drawn headfirst into a search for the girl.

Their probe leads them into a fast paced and dangerous string of encounters that include a Neanderthal named Houston, searches in some of the most hazardous places in North Georgia, a green Kia Soul, an old man with a big gun, and ultimately murder.

It is an adventure that provides some unusual twists and turns and is highlighted by a beautiful relationship between an old baseball player entering politics and a spunky adolescent who are jointly known around town as “Nate and The Kid.”

Danny along with his wife, Wanda, is currently writing mysteries with a message set in Adairsville, Georgia. Four volumes in the Davis Morgan Mystery series are available. A new series, The Adairsville Heritage mystery series, now occupies much of his time. He is also active in the areas of inspiration and Georgia history. Danny is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Recently released, WHATEVER HAPPENED TO EVANGELISM?, is creating a significant stir.

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Book Spotlight — Forged

12 Sep

Forged JustRead Blog + Review Tour
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Forged by Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Forged

Title: Forged
Series: The Night Guardians Series #4
Author: Sara Davison
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink
Release Date: September 5, 2022
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

The one missing person he can’t find

is the one who matters the most.

Private Investigator Jax Rodriguez has been searching for his brother, Diego, for twenty years. When he stumbles upon another lead, he makes an agonizing decision—he will follow this last trail until it grows cold, and then he will marry the woman he loves and abandon his quest once and for all.

Artist Mikayla Grant is terrified of losing another person close to her, but she has to let Jax go after his brother. Given the secrecy surrounding Diego’s disappearance, clearly Jax is heading into danger. When all contact with him is abruptly cut off, can Mikayla trust that God’s promise to never leave or forsake Jax will be enough to bring him safely home, or does she need to take matters into her own hands?

As Jax attempts to survive the dangerous streets of Caracus, Venezuela and then face the myriad of unknown threats in the El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico, he is not the only one following his brother’s trail.

A ruthless drug lord bent on revenge is using all his resources to discover the truth about what happened to Diego. If Jax can’t stay one step ahead of his pursuer, then he, like his brother, could disappear and never be heard from again.

EXCERPT

She laughed lightly as she rested her fingers on her husband’s chest. “You mean I was not the first thing he mentioned as soon as you walked through the door?”

Ernesto captured her hand in his and pressed it to his mouth.

It would be more accurate to say Jax had been shoved through the door by two of Ernesto’s hired guns than that he’d simply walked into the house on his own, but Jax kept that to himself. “No, although we have not been talking long. I haven’t yet had a chance to ask him about his personal life.”

“Then I will leave the two of you to catch up.” Camila slid her hand from Ernesto’s arm. “It is good to have you here, Jax. You are welcome to stay as long as you like. Diego’s family is our family.”

“Gracias.” Her words moved Jax deeply. Then the shadow he’d seen wasn’t anger or resentment toward Diego. What had it been, sadness? Why? Did she know something he didn’t? His fingers curled into fists at his sides. It was beginning to feel as though, when it came to his brother, everyone knew something he didn’t. Weren’t he and his mamá the ones who should know the most?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sara Davison

Sara Davison is the author of four romantic suspense series—The Seven Trilogy, The Night Guardians, The Rose Tattoo Trilogy, and two sparrows for a penny, as well as the standalone, The Watcher. A finalist for more than a dozen national writing awards, she is a Word, Cascade, and Carol Award winner. She currently resides in Ontario with her husband, Michael, and their three mostly grown kids. Like every good Canadian, she loves coffee, hockey, poutine, and apologizing for no particular reason.

Connect with Sara by visiting saradavison.org to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(2) winners will receive a paperback copy of Forged and $25 Amazon gift card.

Forged JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 12, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 19, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

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The Forever Farmhouse Blog Blitz!!

8 Sep

The Forever Farmhouse JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for The Forever Farmhouse by Lee Tobin McClain, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Forever Farmhouse

Title: The Forever Farmhouse
Series: Hometown Brothers #1
Author: Lee Tobin McClain
Publisher: HQN Books
Release Date: September 6, 2022
Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

A Chesapeake island homecoming—and a life-changing discovery

When Ryan Hastings first came to Teaberry Island, he was a troubled teen on his last chance. He’s returning as a renowned scientist, checking in on his widowed foster mother. But one thing hasn’t changed—Ryan’s feelings for the girl next door whom he loved…and left. Mellie Anderson has a son now, and a good life that Ryan believes he’s still too damaged to share. But he knows he can help young Alfie, who’s getting picked on at his new school.

Mellie is grateful her gifted son is getting extra support, and torn about where it’s coming from. Ryan has no idea he’s Alfie’s father. No matter how valid her reasons were, could Ryan ever understand why she didn’t tell him? But in this close-knit community, friendship and forgiveness are always near at hand, and forever love might be waiting just next door.

EXCERPT

He spoke in that radio announcer voice of his that was surely some part of why he’d risen so rapidly in the scientific ranks. What student, what professional audience, wouldn’t sit rapt, listening to him talk, even if it were about algae? 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | BookBub

ALSO AVAILABLE

Cottage at the Beach Reunion at the Shore Christmas at the Coast Home to the Harbor first kiss at christmas Forever on the Bay

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lee Tobin McClain

Lee Tobin McClain is the New York Times bestselling author of more than thirty novels. A professor-turned-writer, she finds inspiration in her beautiful and brilliant daughter, her goofy goldendoodle, and her aptly named cat, Trouble.

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

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of The Forever Farmhouse, a cute tabletop farmhouse decor piece, and a $25 Amazon gift card!

The Forever Farmhouse JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 6, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 13, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Book Spotlight — Cold Dead Night

7 Sep

Cold Dead Night JustRead Blog + Review Tour
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Cold Dead Night

Title: Cold Dead Night
Series: Brand of Justice #1
Author: Lisa Phillips
Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing
Release Date: August 25, 2022
Genre: Christian Suspense

The FBI betrayed her. Now they need her.

Private Investigator Kenna Banbury lost everything two years ago at the hands of a serial killer. From the ashes of that encounter, she’s built a life she believes in, searching for the lost and forgotten all over the western US.

Bringing her own brand of justice.

When a series of murders drags her into an FBI investigation, Kenna finds herself back in the place where it all went wrong. Struggling to make sense of the case, Kenna’s past and present collide in a deadly plot that risks another betrayal and threatens to shatter everything she’s built.

Kenna faces the ultimate test in this first book of a brand-new series from Lisa Phillips.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

EXCERPT

She stood in that basement stairwell and the ice crept over her again. It always came over her the same way. First, the memories. Then, she’d become almost paralyzed. Not able to move or even breathe. After, the most frigid chill would swallow her whole until the hope of ever getting warm again seemed futile.  One day, tomorrow or years from now, she would be found frozen to death somewhere. Whether that foreknowledge portended a peaceful end, or a horrific one, she didn’t yet know.

Either way, the outcome would be the same. Time was going to run out, and Kenna would have to give an account for her life. What would they say about her? She’d faced her fears and done her best, or she’d let a sick man take everything away? Again.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lisa Phillips

USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author Lisa Phillips is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Since then she’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

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

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed hardcover copy of Cold Dead Night and merch including a custom pen and chapstick.
(3) additional winners will receive an ebook copy of Cold Dead Night.

Cold Dead Night JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 12, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only except books available internationally. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

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