An Amish Christmas Star (Blog Tour and Giveaway!) by Shelley Shepard Gray, Charlotte Hubbard and Rosalind Lauer

An Amish Christmas Star

by Charlotte Hubbard

 

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GENRE: Inspirational Romance (Amish)

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 BLURB:

The crisp fragrance of pine trees and the warm spice of fresh cookies aren’t the only blessings that Christmas brings, and no one knows more about happy homecomings than three couples who are celebrating the greatest gift of all . . .

 

STAR OF WONDER by Charlotte Hubbard

When Raymond Overholt comes to Promise Lodge, hoping to sell the barnboard signs he’s painted with stars and Christmas messages, spirited young Mennonite Lizzie Zehr is intrigued. But any courtship between them will face fierce opposition from the bishop of Raymond’s Old Order community—unless someone can convince him that at the heart of faith lies love . . .

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 EXCERPT:

With the girl’s laughter still dancing in his head, Raymond Overholt tried to refocus his thoughts. If he didn’t convince Mr. Kraybill to sell his handmade plaques, his past several weeks of work would be for nothing. He’d have to return home to Coldstream with his tail between his legs, and face a long, dreary lifetime of milking his dat’s cows. Running a dairy was honest, necessary work but Raymond didn’t enjoy spending his early mornings and late afternoons in a smelly barn disinfecting udders any more than the Holsteins liked having him around. Worse yet, if he overslept, his older brothers did the milking and left the hosing down and mucking out of the stalls for him.

       

“If your customers like these plaques, I can make more,” he assured the steely-haired storekeeper. “I—I really appreciate having the chance to sell them here in your new store. Our bulk market in Coldstream is dim and overcrowded with merchandise, and even if the owner there had display space, he wants nothing to do with artwork. It’s that Old Order thing.”

          

Mr. Kraybill smiled knowingly. “Jah, Amish stores don’t usually carry much that appears English even if they have a lot of customers come in from outside their community to shop,” he acknowledged. “But your plaques carry a solid Christmas message—‘Wise men still follow His star’ and the lyrics to ‘We Three Kings’ are meaningful reminders about following our Lord’s holy light. Thanksgiving always kicks off the Christmas buying season, so we’ll give it a shot, Raymond.”

           

He hoped his grateful grin didn’t appear too adolescent—or desperate. Raymond gazed around the store, where a gal in a pleated Amish kapp was stocking shelves in the rear. A few early shoppers were pushing carts into the grocery section. “If you need some extra hands when things get busy these next few weeks, I’d be happy to help, sir,” he offered. “I’ve not worked in a store, but I’m gut at tallying sums and I’m a quick learner.”

           

“I’ll keep it in mind,” Kraybill said with a nod. 

           

Raymond heard probably not in the storekeeper’s words, but he’d dealt with people’s dismissals before. If he’d dressed in dark broadfall pants with a plain shirt and suspenders—and if he’d chosen glasses with conservative frames—Kraybill might’ve taken him more seriously. But until he had no other choice than to submit to Old Order ways and join the church, Raymond was determined to wear clothing he liked.

           

“I’ll be back in a few days to see how my signs are selling,” he said. “Denki for giving me a chance.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

 

In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 60 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in Omaha, NE with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

 www.charlottehubbard.com

 Facebook -- www.Facebook.com/Charlotte.Hubbard1

 Buy Links:

 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Amish-Christmas-Star-Shelley-Shepard-ebook/dp/B09PJ348C8

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/an-amish-christmas-star-shelley-shepard-gray/1140825147

Kensington Publishing:  https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/9781496734273/an-amish-christmas-star/

 Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/An-Amish-Christmas-Star-Paperback-9781496734259/385381250

 Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/an-amish-christmas-star/id1602867197

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 My Review:

Well, I just really enjoyed this sweet romance.  It was so enjoyable to watch the characters change and grow in the their own respective ways.  Becca had a goal to travel and needed to train a replacement for her job at the Amish Market.  Gideon's father sent him from Texas to Indiana to fill Becca's shoes.  He is missing Texas and his smaller community of Beeville.  As the story continues, the love story starts to bloom. Going from friends to falling in love in a sweet way was fun to see.

It was interesting to read about her plans to join the Mennonite Disaster Services and to find out about what they do to help others.  I love Amish Markets and shops so it was a fun read.

I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to give a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE

Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

Please have fun and follow the tour and comment on all the blogs to better your chance of winning! Thanks for being here and share the tour links with your friends!

To Follow the Blog Tour please click here

To enter the Rafflecopter:

Enter Here!

Christmas Comes To Morning Star Guest Post by Charlotte Hubbard and a Giveaway!

Hello friends!

I am so excited to welcome Charlotte Hubbard to my blog today!  She is definitely one of my go - to authors for a wonderful Amish book!  You will love her realist views on living the Amish lifestyle!  Thanks so much for being here, Charlotte, and sharing your thoughts with my readers.
 

You’d Like to Be Amish? Hmm…

             Over the years, I’ve heard so many readers say, “Oh, but I’d love to be Amish!”

I smile. While I believe these folks are sincere, I think they’ve read so much Amish fiction and perhaps visited Lancaster or Holmes Counties or other Amish communities and gotten the idea that the Amish lead idyllic, trouble-free lives that are far removed from the hectic world most of us deal with.

            Myself, although I greatly admire and respect the Amish for their work ethic, their unquestioning faith in God, and the way they’ve kept their families and social network intact in the modern world, I could not join the Old Order church or live as a real-life Amish woman does. I mean no disrespect towards these fine people! But here are reasons I couldn’t convert to their faith…even if they would vote me into their fellowship after I made the enormous life changes such a conversion would require.

            First, I don’t speak PA Dutch or German. When you’re reading stories or visiting Amish shops, everyone’s speaking English—but at home, at church, and amongst themselves, the Amish speak a language that’s tricky to learn, partly because PA Dutch isn’t a written language.

            Second, I can’t imagine cooking for families with six or eight kids without basic small appliances like a mixer or a toaster! Most of us would probably benefit from living a more “unplugged” life, but the absence of electricity means you don’t have air conditioning, an automatic washer/dryer—and you probably brush your teeth before bed with the help of a flashlight! It’s true that many Amish embrace solar power these days, but it’s mostly for businesses. Women at home aren’t allowed to plug into a rooftop solar panel to run any appliances. I could probably adjust to living without Internet or a computer—but that means I’d no longer be a novelist!

            I would also have trouble tolerating a male-dominated society where husbands and church leaders always have the final say. While it’s true I’d be better off if I kept my opinions to myself more often, I would really bristle if my husband didn’t give me permission to do things the way I thought was best. I also like to think that women have something to contribute to church life besides food for the meal following the service!

            Another major stumbling block for me: a religious faith that insists “it’s God’s will” when horrible things happen. For instance, I don’t like to blame God when drunk drivers crash into buggies, or when other human error/meddling causes great misfortune. I also have trouble with a faith that won’t allow expression of artistic or musical talent, as is true in many conservative Amish communities. This has become a theme in many of my stories! I also dislike shunning, and the way conservative Amish churches consider it “an unforgiveable sin” if baptized members leave the Amish faith. The Amish aren’t encouraged to read the Bible for themselves, either. They rely on their bishop’s/preachers’ interpretations of Scripture—and those men tend to preach on the verses that support such viewpoints as wives submitting to their husbands.

            Most of my issues stem from living in more permissive English/non-Amish society, of course. Folks who are raised Amish seem quite content to obey their district’s “rules” because it’s what they know—the 85% retention of their young people certainly supports that. And they don’t seem bothered by rules that have no apparent connection to faith in God. For instance, why must married men grow beards, but they’re not allowed mustaches (which are considered “military” in appearance)? Why are they not allowed to use zippers in their clothing?

            Given the turmoil and upheaval in our lives these days, I totally agree with readers who believe the Amish have found a better way to live, apart from hatred and violence. And I would probably be a far better person if I did more blending in and less expressing of my opinions!

            I also deeply appreciate the readers who follow my Amish series and characters! I love researching and writing stories about the Amish, and I thank you for reading this post, and for your interest in my books!

 Christmas Comes to Morning Star

by Charlotte Hubbard

 

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GENRE:   Amish/Inspirational romance

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 BLURB:

 

Founded by five unmarried and enterprising Amish maidels, the new Morning Star Marketplace in small-town Missouri is preparing for a joyous Christmas season. But will the holiday also bring
unexpected tidings of love?

Twin sisters Molly and Marietta Helfing are eagerly anticipating Christmas, with Marietta fully recovered from cancer and their noodle making business thriving. But Molly clearly misses having former tenant Pete Shetler and his rambunctious dog, Riley, around. Marietta can’t ignore Molly’s feelings for Pete—or the anxiety it stirs within her. Convinced her illness has made her unmarriageable, Marietta wonders what kind of life she’ll have if her sister marries—despite Molly’s promise never to leave her behind. . .

Then a fire destroys the home of Amish neighbors and Molly and Marietta graciously make room for widower Glenn Detweiler, his dat, and his two young boys. When Pete returns to help the family rebuild, Molly relishes her reunion with the handsome carpenter, while Marietta delights in mothering Glenn’s boys—and is surprised by her poignant bond with their quiet, brooding father. Soon everyone is wondering if this season will bring the blessing of a merry double wedding to Morning Star . . .

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 EXCERPT

“I like that smile on your face, Jo. You’re happiest when you’re baking, ain’t so?”    

Jo’s stomach fluttered when Michael stepped into her shop. His evergreen wreath suggested that he had something other than flirtation in mind, and that was just as well, wasn’t it? “That fresh wreath smells just like Christmas,” she said. “I suppose you and your dat make those at your Queen City greenhouse, jah?”

 “We do,” Michael replied. “And we’ve brought enough of them to hang on everyone’s shop entry for the holiday season.”

 Jo stopped stirring her frosting to gaze at him. “That’s very generous. “You fellows have gone all out to decorate The Marketplace for us, and I really appreciate it.”

 The blush that tinted Michael’s cheeks told Jo that he felt every bit as shy around her as she was near him.

“It’s been a boon to our nursery business, selling our plants here,” he said with a dimpled smile. “But more than that, Dat and I, well—we’ve really enjoyed coming to Morning Star to spend time with you and your mamm. And—and my invitation to come to Queen City and see our greenhouses full of poinsettias still stands.”

 Jo swallowed hard. How many times had she dreamed of taking Michael up on his offer? “I—we’ll see,” she hedged. “Baking for the Christmas season is keeping me busier this year—”

“But if you can spare a couple of weekdays in early December, the sight of all those bright red poinsettias will take your breath away,” Michael insisted.

Jo’s heart was pounding so hard that Michael could probably hear it. What a joy it would be see those greenhouses filled with such vibrant Christmas flowers.

As she once again noticed how slim and attractive he was, however, Jo was even more aware that she probably outweighed him by thirty pounds. A guy like Michael would never see beyond her thick glasses—and even though he’d never met her deceased dat, there was no getting around the fact that Jo had been created in Joseph Fussner’s image.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

 In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 50 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in Omaha, NE with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

www.charlottehubbard.com

Facebook -- www.Facebook.com/Charlotte.Hubbard1

 Zebra Books •• ISBN-13: 9781420151831 •• ISBN-10: 1420151835

Print: •• Amazon •• Amazon UK •• Amazon Canada •• Barnes & Noble •• Books-A-Million •• Chapters Indigo •• IndieBound ••Kensington •• Target •• The Book Depository ••Walmart •• 


Ebook: • Kindle •• Kobo •• Google Play •

 

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION:

Charlotte Hubbard be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. In addition to the GC, the author would like to select one female reader's name to use in her upcoming book, HIDDEN AWAY AT PROMISE LODGE.

Here's the link to the Rafflecopter

Blog Tour:

Founded by five unmarried and enterprising Amish maidels, the new Morning Star Marketplace in small-town Missouri is preparing for a joyous Christmas season. But will the holiday also bring unexpected tidings of love?

Twin sisters Molly and Marietta Helfing are eagerly anticipating Christmas, with Marietta fully recovered from cancer and their noodle making business thriving. But Molly clearly misses having former tenant Pete Shetler and his rambunctious dog, Riley, around. Marietta can’t ignore Molly’s feelings for Pete—or the anxiety it stirs within her. Convinced her illness has made her unmarriageable, Marietta wonders what kind of life she’ll have if her sister marries—despite Molly’s promise never to leave her behind. . .

Then a fire destroys the home of Amish neighbors and Molly and Marietta graciously make room for widower Glenn Detweiler, his dat, and his two young boys. When Pete returns to help the family rebuild, Molly relishes her reunion with the handsome carpenter, while Marietta delights in mothering Glenn’s boys—and is surprised by her poignant bond with their quiet, brooding father. Soon everyone is wondering if this season will bring the blessing of a merry double wedding to Morning Star . . .

August 23: All the Ups and Downs
August 23: Lisa Haselton's Reviews and Interviews
August 24: Rogue's Angels
August 24: The Adventure of a Travelers Wife - review
August 25: Literary Gold
August 25: Viviana MacKade
August 26: The Avid Reader
August 26: Southern Gal Loves to Read - review only
August 27: Sunnie Reviews - review
August 27: Hope. Dreams. Life... Love
August 30: Fabulous and Brunette
August 30: Splashes of Joy - review only
August 31: Uplifting Reads - review
August 31: Notes From a Romantic's Heart
September 1: Iron Canuck Reviews & More - review only
September 2: Lisa Everyday Reads
September 2: Read Your Writes Book Reviews
September 3: D'S QUILTS & BOOKS - review only
September 3: Long and Short Reviews

Author Guest Post by Linda Weaver Clarke With a GIVEAWAY!

Hello Friends!  Linda Weaver Clarke is sharing about her books today and I hope that if you haven't read her books that you will definitely give them a try!  They are sweet, clean and wonderful! 

Never Too Late To Dream

 

I believe it’s never too late to accomplish one’s dreams. Some people have a bucket list that has daring things to do or something they longed to do for years. It is never too late and you are never too old to do something you have longed to do.

After raising six daughters and believing it is never too late to dream, I decided to go back to college. It was a scary thing to do and I don’t know why I was so worried. At the age of 50, I graduated from college with a Theatre and Arts Degree. After that, I performed for a concert series. It was unbelievably fun and enjoyable until I got reflux and lost my voice. Feeling discouraged, I didn’t know what to do with my life. But . . . when one door is closed, God opens another door for you to walk through. And that was exactly what He did for me. 

An interest in writing engulfed me. So I went to the library and studied every book available about writing. I wanted to write family friendly stories for all ages. So I sat down and wrote a few books until I was brave enough to send one to a publisher. At the age of 56, I became a published author and won an award for my first book, which surprised and delighted me. After writing five historical romances, I wrote 12 cozy mysteries and then wrote three swashbuckling romances. Since I was a fan of Robin Hood, Zorro, and the Scarlet Pimpernel, I couldn’t help it. I even wrote some non-fiction and a children’s book. Being an author has been an interesting path to travel. The most recent series that I just completed is a historical mystery romance series set in the 1830s. It is called A Willow Valley Historical Romance. Each romance has a mystery to solve. 

One Last Dance is the first book in this series, which will keep you guessing until the end of the book. When Felicity meets their charming new neighbor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom, a precious treasure found in her attic, her life takes a new turn.

 “This book has my favorite genres: historical, romance and mystery. Although I enjoyed the romance, what I liked most was the mystery. Intrigue and suspense kept me hooked and I loved the air of mystery behind a few of the characters. It kept me guessing to the end, and of course it had a sweet, happy ending. This is one of my favorite books by Linda Weaver Clarke.” –Inishowen Cailin, Book Reviewer

Book trailer:

https://vimeo.com/310912310

Angel’s Serenade is the second book in this series. Each day as Emmeline practices the piano, she doesn’t know the new doctor in town secretly sits on his porch to listen to her music. As Emmeline gets to know the charming doctor, they become intrigued by her neighbor’s mysterious behavior. Will they discover his secret? And who is the leader of the River Pirates, who is causing so much havoc?

 “Clarke has created a sweet romance that will warm the heart, and it’s wrapped up in fascinating yesteryear details of courting, medical practice and river pirates. I highly recommend the book to those who enjoy sweet romance with a bit of mystery.” –Author Gail Pallotta

 Book trailer:

https://vimeo.com/408058731

 In A Pleasant Rivalry, Angelica is surprised when she finds out that an old school chum has returned to Willow Valley. Since she writes articles for the Chronicle and Simon owns the Willow Valley News, they just happen to be rivals. The competition is on. Who will be the first to discover the identity of the jewel thief or the arsonist? To her surprise, Angelica realizes she is losing her heart to her rival.

 “I loved this book!  It was a great historical read and full of surprises.  I totally didn't expect what happened… to happen.  The time period was an interesting one and I love how the author intertwines historical events into the story.  It was a new and refreshing tale.” –Sunnie Reviews

 Book Trailer:

https://vimeo.com/427914575

 Holidays in Willow Valley is full of surprises. This book is a collection of six holiday stories, something that I hadn’t done before. What were the holidays like at Willow Valley in 1840? While writing this book, I learned to appreciate our holidays.

 

“This book contains six short stories of different holidays celebrated in the 1840 time period. These are enjoyable stories to read any time of year, not just in holiday times. The characters and the book carry Christian values, which I love. These are very entertaining stories!” --Sunnie Reviews

 Book Trailer:

https://vimeo.com/438375608

 

I soon realized that writing short stories was a pleasure and quite fun. So I decided to try it once again. So I wrote the fifth and last book in this series called Tales of Willow Valley. It is a collection of five “Love Stories.”

“If you are in the mood for some sweet, clean, historical, romantic short stories then look no further. I enjoyed each story and how the women are not sitting back waiting on a man, but are take-charge women that start their own businesses, aren’t afraid to face ruffians, and encourage women to fight for their rights. It is amazing what you can learn when an author does research into events in the past to make sure their works are as authentic as possible.” –Story Book Reviews

 As of today, I am the author of 32 books and 28 Audible audiobooks. You can order any of my books from Amazon and Audible Audiobooks at my websites below.

Meet the author: Linda Weaver Clarke

My Book Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

Audiobook Blog: https://familyfriendlyaudiobooks.wordpress.com

Cozy Mystery Blog: https://cozymysteryseries.wordpress.com

Historical Romance Blog: https://historicalromances.wordpress.com

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

Linda is also hosting a giveaway!    Linda will  give a Ebook copy of "One Last Dance" to a lucky commenter !

Bachelor Buttons by Kathleen L. Maher Review and Giveaway!

Book Blurb:

The daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, Rose Meehan longs for a better life than the tenements of New York City. Courted by two men--a young doctor who represents material security, and a poor violin instructor who has captured her heart--she must choose between the two. When Manhattan explodes in mob rule following Lincoln's unpopular draft, Rose’s decision could mean the difference between life and death.

My Review:

This great novella is #3 in the Cry Of Freedom" series, showing the plight of North and South during the Civil War Years.  The book has romance, action, and hard times as people strive to do what they can in difficult and very volatile times.  I hope you will take the time to read this most interesting book and at the same time learn about historical events that shaped our Nation.

I love how the author retells a story of her 2nd great grandmother in a romantic adventure.  Being a genealogist I love to learn of events in my family and the families of others in dramatic times of America. It is heartbreaking to see the way the freedmen were treated during this time and how illness ravages so many. 

I really enjoyed Will who wants to court Rose and goes to great lengths to win the desire of his heart.

Such a good story.  And a Christian story, which I love.  I highly recommend this story.

Kathleen L. Maher’s Author bio:

"Where every underdog has his day."
Kathleen L. Maher’s first crush was Peter Rabbit, and she’s loved conflicted heroes ever since. She has two novellas in BARBOUR BOOKS' collections: Victorian Christmas Brides and Lessons on Love. Winner 2012 ACFW Genesis Award. Author of Sons of the Shenandoah Series: The Abolitionist's Daughter and The Chaplain's Daughter. 
Kathleen and her husband live in an old farmhouse in upstate NY with their children and a small menagerie.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Kathleen-L-Maher/e/B00D8EXO80/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/KLMaherAuthor/
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/kathleenlmaher/boards/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2531698-kathleen-l
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kathleen-l-maher

Giveaway!

Thank you so much for having me on your blog, Sonja.  I am  offering a giveaway to one of your readers of an e-copy of Bachelor Buttons. All you have to do to enter is share this post on social media.  The more shares, the more entries.  Just tell me in the comments where you shared to claim your entry(ies). And a way for me to reach you if random dot org selects your name. (email is great.)

Also, I am hostessing a huge Rafflecopter giveaway with another Christian historical author. Please take a moment to enter for your chance to win one of these great prizes!

Raffle copter runs from March 9-18^th Grand prize is $50 Amazon GC, second prize is a $25 Ammy GC.

To enter go to this link  Rafflecopter

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day. The luck of the Irish be with you!

New Beginnings at Promise Lodge Blog Tour and Giveaway!!

Welcome Charlotte Hubbard to my blog!

I am so happy to be a part of Charlotte Hubbard's blog tour.  I've read this book and loved it! And Charlotte will be awarding a $15.00 Amazon card or Barnes and Noble gift card to one randomly drawn commenter via rafflecopter!  So be sure to leave a comment! And leave a comment on each blog stop!

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes & Noble gift card via the Rafflecopter at the end of this post. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Recently widowed after twenty years of marriage, Frances Lehman is only just tasting the freedom and opportunity that her Promise Lodge friends enjoy. So she's not about to be pressured into marriage by her widowed brother-in-law, even if she and her daughter have no real means of support. Much more promising is her new friendship with Preacher Marlin Kurtz, though their respective families don't see their relationship as proper . . .

When Frances suffers a serious injury, she's determined to prove she can recover—and remain independent—without burdening Marlin. Now, with his steadfast belief in real love tested, Marlin's hope is that Promise Lodge's irrepressible residents can help him restore Frances's joy—and that faith will show them a way to turn their fragile second chance into a blessed and abiding future together.

And don't miss the first three books in the Promise Lodge series!

Enjoy an excerpt from "New Beginnings at Promise Lodge":

Frances shaded her eyes with her hand, enthralled with what she saw. “It doesn’t seem like you and I have walked such a long distance, yet from here, the lodge and our homes look like part of a toy village.”

“We’ve come a long way,” Marlin remarked softly. “I’m glad you’ve walked with me, Frances. Our community has taken on even more of a glow because I’m seeing it through your eyes.”

The tone of his voice made Frances’s pulse thrum with an unusual sense of energy, as though the preacher had something on his mind besides the view.

We’ve come a long way.

# # #

Allen treasured Phoebe’s rapt expression and the closeness of her slender body as she leaned against him. He’d given her a gift by showing her Promise Lodge from this hilltop vantage point.

“What about that parcel of land behind the Lehman places?” she asked dreamily. “We’d have a beautiful view of the lake. What do you think, Allen? Should I ask Mamm if I can have it?”

Allen’s throat closed with a sudden case of nerves. He eased away from her, pretending to look at something near the lodge so she wouldn’t see how she’d startled him. Their relationship, which had felt so comfortable over the past week, now gave him the sensation that an invisible halter had been fastened around his head—and that Phoebe was holding the lead rope.

About the author: In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 50 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

Website: http://www.charlottehubbard.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.hubbard1

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MKX3NTT/
Kindle UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07MKX3NTT/
Kindle Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07MKX3NTT/
Kindle Australia: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07MKX3NTT/
iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11
iBooks UK: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11
iBooks Canada: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11
iBooks Australia: https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11
iBooks New Zealand: https://itunes.apple.com/nz/book/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge/id1448128057?mt=11
Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge-charlotte-hubbard/1130055278?ean=9781420145137
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/new-beginnings-at-promise-lodge
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Charlotte_Hubbard_New_Beginnings_at_Promise_Lodge?id=bNqBDwAAQBAJ

Order Print
Zebra Books
September 24, 2019
ISBN-13: 9781420145106
ISBN-10: 142014510X
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=142014510X/
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ISBN=142014510X
Amazon Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/exec/obidos/ISBN=142014510X
Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?ean=9781420145106
Books-A-Million: http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781420145106
IndieBound: http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781420145106
The Book Depository: http://www.bookdepository.com/book/9781420145106

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway at Chat With Vera's Blog

Here is a new giveaway!  Click HERE!

The Melody of the Soul by Liz Tolsma Giveaway!

A giveaway on Chat With Vera website,   Enter to win this great looking book!

Sword of the Matchmaker, Review and Giveaway! Hosted by Debbie Lynne Costello

     Today I have the great pleasure of hosting a special guest, author Debbie Lynne Costello, who writes Historical fiction.  She will be interviewing the protagonist, Penelope, from her latest book Sword of the Matchmaker.  I am so excited to be a part of her blog tour!  

Welcome Debbie and Penelope!

     Penelope, tell us a little bit about yourself. Where are you from? How did you get to Hawkwood?

I am no’ your typical Scottish lass. Yes, I am from Scotland. I have lived most of my life being the son my father always desired. He’d wanted a boy but only had me. At a fairly young age I decided tae be the son my father dinna have. I had to make decisions and sacrifices but I dinna regret it. Me father and I had a guid relationship. I came tae Hawkwood looking for Hamon Godfrey—I dinna find Hamon, but I did find Thomas, his son.

When you first met Thomas you mentioned loathing the man. Can you tell me why and what changed?

When I first met Thomas I had the impression everything was a jest tae him. I found it vera irritating because I dinna feel like he took my problem seriously. But I found out that Thomas has a vera big heart and really does care. I have seen some different sides tae him. He can be a tough Master-at-Arms that is a straightforward man, but he also has a fun side tae him that I find rather interesting.

If you could change anything about you what would that be?

If you would have asked me that question a few months ago, before I lost most of my clan, I would have said who I am. I would have changed from Penelope to perhaps Phillip. I would have been born the son my father always wanted. However, God’s plan for my life wasn’t being a son but being a daughter. After meeting Thomas I have tae say I like God’s plan much better than mine.

Why did you not want to marry?

Let me clarify that misunderstanding. It was no’ so much that I dinna want tae marry. But when I decided tae be the son my father never had, I dinna think any man would want me. And none was interested in me for many years. Look at me. I am 25 years old. There wasn’t any man who approached me. But I dinna hold that against any of them, what man wants his wife fighting by his side? No, I understood what I was doing when I made that choice.

I’ve heard some ask why you didn’t disguise yourself as a boy when you came to Hawkwood, why didn’t you?

Those seeking me ken what I looked like. ’Twould have no’ been of any use to pretend I was a lad. And that would be your next story, the sequel to Sword of Forgiveness. Dinna get me wrong, I think I’m going to like Audrey of Sword of Trust but that is no’ who I am. I came tae Hawkwood tae call in a favor owed my father. I dinna come tae deceive anyone. If I came with deceit how could I expect them tae trust me when they realized that I was a woman? And I am pretty sure it wouldno’ take long before they figured that one out as I am no’ built like a boy. After all I am 25 years of age. Nay, I do believe I made the right decision.

You’re a warrior, so do you wear armor? 

(Penelope chuckles) Armor? You are jesting with me? I am no’ a knight. I am a woman warrior. And though I am a pretty guid shot with a bow or a knife, I dinna think I could shoot, throw, or wield a sword as I carried all that weight around on meself. And do you ken how expensive Armor is? ’Tis vera costly. I dinna come from a wealthy family or clan. I would have had tae give up eating for a year or more tae buy armor.

What do you like to do for fun?

You mean besides annoying Thomas? I still love tae hone my skills with my bow and also with my knife.  ’Tis even more fun these days practicing. Did you ken that I can beat Thomas? ’Tis true. I can best him and all his men with my bow and my knife. He tells me he lets me win but you and I both ken the truth.

Thanks for visiting with us today, Penelope.

’Tis me that wishes tae thank you. I’m looking forward to meeting your friends. If they have any questions for me happy I’d be to answer them.   

 GIVEAWAY:

On top of the rafflecopter giveaway I’ll give away a copy of Sword of the Matchmaker (if you have purchased the book you can choose one of my other books) if we have 10 different commenters. Leave a comment or answer one of the questions I’ve asked Penelope or ask me a question to be entered.

PLUS

Don’t forget to enter in the rafflecopter, too! There will be lots of ways to earn points. I’ll be giving away a kindle fire with Sword of the Matchmaker, $15 Amazon gift card and much more!

RAFFLECOPTER:

Click here to enter!

Tomorrow's stop for the blog tour can be found here: 

June 16 amybooksy.blogspot.com

Purchase link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Sword-Matchmaker-Debbie-Lynne-Costello-ebook/dp/B071919DNN/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Blurb:

Penelope Beatty made up her mind long ago she would live and die a Scottish warrior not a wife. But when nearly all her clan is killed and she is betrayed, she loathes doing the unthinkable, but must seek the help of an Englishman who owed her father his life.

Thomas Godfrey never married, but when a Scottish warrior lass shows up needing his aid, he finds her both annoying and irresistible. But the last thing he wants is to marry a woman who fights alongside him. If he was going to marry—which he isn’t—it would be to a soft, submissive woman. But when the Lady Brithwin meets the Scottish lass, she’s sure she’s found the perfect match for Thomas and nothing is going to stop her from seeing a summer wedding.

Sword of Forgiveness blurb:

After the death of her cruel father, Brithwin is determined never again to live under the harsh rule of any man. Independent and resourceful, she longs to be left alone to manage her father’s estate. But she soon discovers a woman has few choices when the king decrees she is to marry Royce, the Lord of Rosencraig. As if the unwelcome marriage isn’t enough, her new husband accuses her of murdering his family, and she is faced with a challenge of either proving her innocence or facing possible execution.
Royce of Hawkwood returns home after setting down a rebellion to find his family brutally murdered. When all fingers point to his betrothed and attempts are made on his life, Royce must wade through murky waters to uncover the truth. Yet Brithwin’s wise and kind nature begin to break down the walls of his heart, and he soon finds himself in a race to discover who is behind the evil plot before Brithwin is the next victim.

Purchase link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Sword-Forgiveness-Winds-Change-Book-ebook/dp/B00TRMK3A4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495113861&sr=8-1&keywords=Sword+of+forgiveness

Bio:

Debbie Lynne Costello has enjoyed writing stories since she was eight years old. She raised her family and then embarked on her own career of writing the stories that had been begging to be told. She and her husband have four children and live in upstate South Carolina. She has worked in many capacities in her church and is currently the Children's Director. Debbie Lynne has shown and raised Shetland Sheepdogs for eighteen years and still enjoys litters now and then. In their spare time, she and her husband take pleasure in camping and riding their Arabian and Tennessee Walking horses.

Media links:

www.debbielynnecostello.com
www.theswordandspirit.blogspot.com
www.HHHistory.com

https://www.facebook.com/debbielynnecostello

https://twitter.com/DebiLynCostello

https://www.pinterest.com/debbielynne1/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9458076.Debbie_Lynne_Costello

https://plus.google.com/u/0/+DebbieLynneCostello

https://smile.amazon.com/Debbie-Lynne Costello/e/B00TRT6RYS/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1494110062&sr=8-2