Thursday, May 23, 2024

Sign the Anti-Rioting Petition and Support Israel Today!

Biden continues to jump between approving and disapproving of anti-Israel
protests depending on his audience. We need to stand up for our brothers
and sisters in Israel. It’s time for the protests to stop and for us to support Israel!

Stop the media’s lies about the attacks on Israel!
See real headlines about what’s actually going on in the world
below, and then sign the petition to end anti-Israel rioting:


Anti-Israel protester blocks traffic using her baby: 
This video captures an anti Israel protester holding her baby while standing in front of a car to block traffic. Another protester can be heard asking for a replacement for the mother, noting her willingness to risk her child’s life. Additionally, another parent with a small child and dog are seen standing in the path of traffic. See video: LINK


George Washington U grads storm out of graduation ceremony in anti-Israel protest: 
Dozens of George Washington University graduates walked out of commencement ceremonies on Sunday, disrupting university President Ellen Granberg's speech, in protest over the ongoing war in Gaza and last week's clearing of an on-campus protest encampment that involved police use of pep per spray and dozens of arrests. See more: LINK


Harvard Prevents Twelve Anti-Israel Protesters from Graduating at Commencement: 
The Harvard College Administrative Board will be preventing twelve seniors from graduating at commencement and at least one senior will be re quired to withdraw for three semesters, the Harvard Crimson reported. Two of the twelve seniors were among the five suspended students who were forced to withdraw from Harvard College, the university’s undergraduate liberal arts school. See more: LINK


Philadelphia University president reacts after at least 75
anti-Israel protestors descend on campus: 
A group of at least 75 anti-Israel agitators staged an encampment at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening. The president said that encampment raised “understandable concerns” about safety on campus. See more: LINK


Seeking Peace: 
Israel has repeatedly expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue and negotiate for a lasting peace with the Palestinians. However, achieving peace requires a genuine commitment from both sides to recognize each other’s right to exist and to engage in constructive negotiations without violence or terrorism.


Complexity of the Conflict: 
The situation in the Middle East is complex, with historical, religious, and geopolitical dimensions. It’s crucial to understand the multifaceted nature of the conflict and avoid oversimplification or one-sided narratives that ignore the broader context.


Addressing Root Causes: 
To achieve long-term peace, it’s necessary to address the root causes of the conflict, such as incitement to violence, terrorism, and the refusal to recognize Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state. Encouraging a shift towards education for coexistence and mutual respect is crucial for fostering lasting peace.


Combatting Terrorism: 
Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, exploits civilian areas in Gaza, using them as launch sites for rocket attacks on Israeli civilians. The international community must condemn terrorism in all its forms and hold accountable those who use violence against civilians for political gain.


Fetterman: 
Biden Is Trying to ‘Have Both Sides’ on Israel-Hamas War: 
Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) said Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union” that President Joe Biden was tryin to have “both sides” on the Israel-Hamas war. See more: LINK






Disclosure: 

Many thanks to Influenceable for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Chromatic by Ashley Bustamante



About the Book


Book: 
Chromatic

Author: Ashley Bustamante

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release Date: May 7, 2024

Light is Found in Every Hue

Magus is dying from the inside out, and only the destruction of the barrier can save it. Even color magic can’t defend against earthquakes, strange weather patterns, and erratic wildlife behavior.

After discovering hundreds of captive Yellow magic-users, Ava and Elm fight to set them free. However, new dangers and unexpected enemies await at every turn, forcing them to face their greatest challenges yet. The calamities inside the barrier slowly manifest in the outside world as well, pulling citizens from both sides of the battle into the fray. In this new war, they may not all make it out alive.

Elm and Ava must confront the growing darkness and create a future in a world that has been all but stripped of hope. Can Magus be restored, or is it already too late?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Ashley Bustamante has created stories from the moment she could scribble and staple sheets of paper together. She simply cannot recall a time when writing was not a force in her life. When not running through lines of dialogue in her mind, she enjoys taking photographs and spending time with her husband, three children, and any furry, feathered, or scaly creature she can find. She currently works at Arizona State University.

 

 



 


More from Ashley

Sitting down to write the final installment of the Color Theory series was an emotional experience. I wanted to do well by my readers and do well by God. And of course, I wanted to stay true to the story I set out to write in the beginning.

One of the difficult things about writing this book is that I knew the characters were going to have to face higher stakes and deeper pain than ever before. Given the situation they are in, it had to be that way. But, in spite of what Ava, Elm, and crew will face in Chromatic, this is ultimately a story of hope and triumph.

As I’ve watched the struggles of the world right now and seen what so many readers are going through, I knew I wanted to tell a tale of perseverance. No matter how bleak our circumstances may be, we can still find the light.

I hope you enjoy Chromatic!

Blog Stops

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 23

Artistic Nobody, May 24 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, May 24

Texas Book-aholic, May 25

Through the Fire Blogs, May 26 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 27

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 28

Blossoms and Blessings, May 29 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 30

Blogging With Carol, May 31

Beauty in the Binding, June 1 (Author Interview)

Min Reads and Reviews, June 1

Labor Not in Vain, June 2

Guild Master, June 3 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, June 4 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Vicky Sluiter, June 5 (Author Interview)

Giveaway


To celebrate her tour, Ashley is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a hardcover copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/2b9d4/chromatic-celebration-tour-giveaway


My Review

After reading the first two books from The Color Theory series from Ashley Bustamante, Vivid and Radiant, I was curious to see what was to come in the third installment, Chromatic. Ava's continues with another adventure with her friends. I believe I enjoyed reading this one the most of the three books. I never knew what would happen from scene to scene. It was full of action and adventure. I thought it was a satisfying conclusion to the series. I'm sad to say goodbye to these characters.

I am giving Chromatic four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading young adult fantasy. I would be interested in more releases to come from Ashley Bustamante in the future. 

I received a digital copy of Ashley Bustamante's Chromatic from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Sign the Anti-Rioting Petition and Support Israel Today!

Biden continues to jump between approving and disapproving of anti-Israel
protests depending on his audience. We need to stand up for our brothers
and sisters in Israel. It’s time for the protests to stop and for us to support Israel!

Stop the media’s lies about the attacks on Israel!
See real headlines about what’s actually going on in the world
below, and then sign the petition to end anti-Israel rioting:


Anti-Israel protester blocks traffic using her baby: 
This video captures an anti Israel protester holding her baby while standing in front of a car to block traffic. Another protester can be heard asking for a replacement for the mother, noting her willingness to risk her child’s life. Additionally, another parent with a small child and dog are seen standing in the path of traffic. See video: LINK


George Washington U grads storm out of graduation ceremony in anti-Israel protest: 
Dozens of George Washington University graduates walked out of commencement ceremonies on Sunday, disrupting university President Ellen Granberg's speech, in protest over the ongoing war in Gaza and last week's clearing of an on-campus protest encampment that involved police use of pep per spray and dozens of arrests. See more: LINK


Harvard Prevents Twelve Anti-Israel Protesters from Graduating at Commencement: 
The Harvard College Administrative Board will be preventing twelve seniors from graduating at commencement and at least one senior will be re quired to withdraw for three semesters, the Harvard Crimson reported. Two of the twelve seniors were among the five suspended students who were forced to withdraw from Harvard College, the university’s undergraduate liberal arts school. See more: LINK


Philadelphia University president reacts after at least 75
anti-Israel protestors descend on campus: 
A group of at least 75 anti-Israel agitators staged an encampment at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening. The president said that encampment raised “understandable concerns” about safety on campus. See more: LINK


Seeking Peace: 
Israel has repeatedly expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue and negotiate for a lasting peace with the Palestinians. However, achieving peace requires a genuine commitment from both sides to recognize each other’s right to exist and to engage in constructive negotiations without violence or terrorism.


Complexity of the Conflict: 
The situation in the Middle East is complex, with historical, religious, and geopolitical dimensions. It’s crucial to understand the multifaceted nature of the conflict and avoid oversimplification or one-sided narratives that ignore the broader context.


Addressing Root Causes: 
To achieve long-term peace, it’s necessary to address the root causes of the conflict, such as incitement to violence, terrorism, and the refusal to recognize Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state. Encouraging a shift towards education for coexistence and mutual respect is crucial for fostering lasting peace.


Combatting Terrorism: 
Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, exploits civilian areas in Gaza, using them as launch sites for rocket attacks on Israeli civilians. The international community must condemn terrorism in all its forms and hold accountable those who use violence against civilians for political gain.


Fetterman: 
Biden Is Trying to ‘Have Both Sides’ on Israel-Hamas War: 
Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) said Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union” that President Joe Biden was tryin to have “both sides” on the Israel-Hamas war. See more: LINK






Disclosure: 

Many thanks to Influenceable for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: The Crooked Daughter by D M Griffin



About the Book


Book: 
The Crooked Daughter

Author: D.M. Griffin

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release date: March 28, 2024

Choices her father made before she was even born reached a bony finger into her life, clouding her future with hopelessness. Her father’s cold heart had no room for her. He easily cast her aside when the Law permitted it. Defined as an outcast because of a physical infirmity, Priscilla was told death was her destiny. Despite the limited perspective brought about by years of adversity, Priscilla fought to keep hope alive and wait for the Lord’s timing.

Aquila lost his father at the most critical time in his life. Battling against grief and bitterness, Aquila uncovers a secret about his father’s death that undermines his faith in a religious system that once defined him. Driven from his homeland, Aquila becomes someone he no longer recognizes.

Two people whose perspectives are skewed by adversity become divinely intertwined in mysterious ways. As they wait upon the Lord for His timing, would Priscilla and Aquila ever find the truth that would lift their eyes to the hills so they could see the purpose of life, not only between a man and a woman but between God and His creation? A poignant story about how God uses adversity for good in the lives of those who truly love and trust Him.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

D.M. Griffin is the author of several Biblical Fiction novels as well as devotionals, prayer journals, and Bible studies. She will be releasing a Christian Fantasy series in 2025. She currently resides in Northern California with her husband. They met in middle school a few days after she was transplanted to the West Coast at the tender age of twelve. She has three adult children who have been an endless source of delight and inspiration. She also has a precious new grandchild who brings her joy.

As a native New England girl, she fondly remembers spending her summers there as a child. Thick accents, small towns, and fascinating weather stirred the imagination of a young heart. She has always had a fondness for stories thanks to her imaginative mother who would make up wild, adventurous tales to tell when tucking her into bed as a child.

She truly believes that a book that sits on a shelf unread is like a planted seed that never blossoms. Nothing delights her more than sharing a story.

More from D.M.

My inspiration for writing The Crooked Daughter is multi-faceted. First of all, I was intrigued by the unnamed characters in the Bible who had a single extraordinary encounter with Jesus. The woman who was bent over for eighteen years was one of the four that I selected for The Encounter Series.

Though there were few verses dedicated to this woman, I felt the deeper pull of a story tucked inside the folds of those verses describing Jesus healing her on the Sabbath. I wondered what her story was. What led her there that day? Did she go searching for Him or did Jesus pick her out of the crowd?

Reading that the woman was in that condition for eighteen years is worthy of pondering. I think a lot of times when we read Scripture, we miss the impact of time’s passage. As someone who has suffered from back pain for many years, I could relate to the crooked woman’s story. Eighteen years is a long time to be bent over. The longest I had to remain in a bent position was three weeks. It is extremely difficult to move through the world when the only thing you can see is the ground. Pain is bad enough to endure. Pain for eighteen years must have been excruciating. I know when I am in pain my mood and attitude definitely need adjustment. I would have been a monster after eighteen years!

Developing Priscilla’s character challenged me as a writer. As someone who suffered an early rejection in life only to endure physical infirmity on her own, I didn’t want her to become embittered the way most would after enduring such a trial. There was a delicate balance between lamenting her fate and holding onto hope as it slipped away. Therefore, I introduced the playful, furry character – a dog named Patch.

Aquila’s character was complex and layered. While he was physically able-bodied, his heart was agonizing with grief, responsibility, and disillusioned faith. He was a man who could stand straight even while his soul was bent over.

I have always been intrigued by Aquila and Priscilla in the Bible. As an inspirational couple who served the Lord together, I enjoyed weaving the threads of their story into the fictional account about the crooked woman. I believe that love soothes the wounds of suffering. Falling in love straightens the crooked perspectives of circumstances. Who doesn’t enjoy a good love story that culminates in a strong, enviable marriage?

In The Crooked Daughter, the main character’s condition is symbolic of the political climate of those days. The religious leaders were the ones who were bent over, their perspective about God’s acceptance of people horribly skewed under the heaviness of pride. They could not lift their eyes to the heavens to recognize the Messiah in their midst. Their hearts were hunched under the weight of selfish ambition and prejudicial attitudes. Condemnation was the chain that kept them bound, unable to see the horizon of eternity.

Physical infirmities are horrible to endure. Even worse are the infirmities of the soul. So many things can truly bend us away from God – rejection, selfishness, anger, grief, regret. Thankfully, Jesus is more than a healer. He is our Savior. I truly enjoyed exploring these themes throughout The Crooked Daughter. I hope that readers come away from the story with hope as an anchor for hard times. God truly uses all things for good when we trust in His plan.

Blog Stops

Fiction Book Lover, May 13 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 14

Simple Harvest Reads, May 15 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, May 16 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, May 16

Splashes of Joy, May 17 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, May 18

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, May 19 (Author Interview)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 20

Guild Master, May 21 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 22

A Reader’s Brain, May 23 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 24

Stories By Gina, May 25 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 26

Giveaway


To celebrate her tour, D.M. Griffin is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card & copy of book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/2b7c9/the-crooked-daughter-celebration-tour-giveaway


My Review

The Crooked Daughter is the second book from D M Griffin's The Encounter series. Since I have not read the first in the series, this one can easily be read as a stand alone. I adored reading about  Aquila and Priscilla, who are from the New Testament of the Bible. I loved the authors' vision of how they lived. I found their story to be one of hope, love, adversity, and faith. I loved every single page of this book and could not put it down until I had it read in one sitting.

I am giving The Crooked Daughter five stars. I highly recommend it for fans of Biblical Fiction. I look forward to the next installment from The Encounter series, Touch of Power. 

I received a digital copy of D M Griffin's The Crooked Daughter from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion. 

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Book Blast and Giveaway: Exiles by L J Ambrosio

 



Welcome to the Launch Day Book Blast for EXILES, a Literary Fiction/Coming of Age by L.J. Ambrosio, organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will award a $20 Amazon/BN GC, an autographed copy of the book, or a dragonfly necklace to three randomly drawn winners. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.




In this final chapter, Ron's story concludes from Reflections on the Boulevard (2023). Michael's wish was for Ron to exile himself in the heart of Paris with its beautiful culture and citizens as they protest and fight for the soul of the city. Ron's journey is met with life-affirming friendships and lessons along the way. The final book in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, which started with A Reservoir Man (2022).





Read an Excerpt

Ron, weak in the legs from forgetting the spirit of his youth, had been managing bookstores more than living life. His legs pumped forward. but with the awkwardness of an old man who had forgotten how to walk. In a few seconds he was up to speed and ran faster to catch the thief.

Near the corner, Ron had missed his opportunity to slow and check for other people walking, so he slammed into a group of women. He especially blasted into an old lady whose groceries flew into the sky, and a yogurt splattered against a wall and the faces of the other women. She turned to condemn her assailant, but he was already on the next block in pursuit of the thief.

He spotted the thief at the Notre Dame Hotel, out of breath, leaning against a pillar. Surprised at the thief’s choice to stop here, he slowed down and let his feet pound the street into a halt.

Ron grabbed at him but still missed his shoulder.

“Give me the book back!” he said, very loudly.

The thief just shrugged his shoulder, a mocking smile. His smile made the act of chasing him through the streets feel silly, as if this were a game that had been played and he took it too seriously.

The thief looked at Ron and asked, sarcastically, “What language are you speaking?”

“What do you mean? I am speaking French!”

Our thief laughed, turned to a random man who walked down the street, and said, "This young man thinks he is speaking French Go ahead say something to this stranger; he will tell you are speaking some other language other than French!”

“I will call the police,” Ron said firmly.

About the Author:

Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist over the course of his impressive career.


Monday, May 20, 2024

Review: Jack and I by Laury A Egan

 

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb: 

A psychological suspense novel about two teenage boys. The twist? They're both named Jack and both inhabit the same body. "Mostly I was relieved to put some distance between Jack and myself, although this wasn't possible because I am Jack, too. And sort of not Jack. I am I, or rather, I am me."1994. Jack Kennett is 16 and suffers from undiagnosed Dissociative Identity Disorder (Multiple Personality Disorder). Abandoned at age two, Jack has been in the New Jersey care system all his foster homes and once placed for adoption with the Kennetts, a family he adored, especially their daughter, Cara. As the divisive war between the two personalities escalates, Jack (the host) is in despair and feeling powerless as he experiences amnesiac events and must deal with his alter's promiscuity, truancy, and illegal acts. How will the war between the personalities end?



My Review: 

Jack & I is another fabulous book written by the talented Laury A Egan. It is one that makes a reader really think. It is full of mystery and suspense. It was interesting to learn more about different mental health disorders. I thought the author did a great job at writing a unique plot, fascinating characters, and one with unpredictable twists. There were a few scenes that had me wondering what was going on and leaving me a little perplexed until a few pages later. I loved reading it.
I am giving Jack & I five stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading suspenseful novels. I would love to read more books from Laury A Egan in the future.
I received a digital copy of Laury A Egan's Jack & I but was not required to write a review, nor a positive one. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

View all my reviews

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Abounding Hope by Cindy Kay Stewart



About the Book



Book: Abounding Hope

Author: Cindy Kay Stewart

Genre: Historical Christian Romance (WWII)

Release date: October, 2023

Poland’s looming defeat forces an American teacher to escape with children wanted by the Nazis.

It’s late August, 1939, and the world is on the brink of war. The Nazis are threatening Poland, but American teacher Irena Simmons refuses to flee to safety. She’s dedicated her life to serving in her church and school, and she’s watching over the little German boys she whisked to safety the year before. When her former classmate, Jonathan, surprises her in Lvov and insists she leave with him before the war starts, Irena balks. Nothing will interfere with her work—especially a man making demands.

American shipping magnate Jonathan Huntwell had a crush on Irena in school. When their former classmates select him to travel to Poland and escort her out before it’s too late, he doesn’t expect the inner turmoil she ignites in him. Although honor-bound to aid any friend in trouble, Jonathan acknowledges that Irena is more than an obligation to him. However, he must keep his feelings hidden, or he’ll jeopardize their friendship.

Irena soon discovers that the Gestapo agent she successfully evaded in Germany has found her in Poland, and he’s after her young charges. When the Germans invade, Jonathan is in Denmark on business, too far away to help. As the rising danger threatens everything Irena holds dear, she must find a way to protect those she loves.

Based on true events and backed by extensive research, Abounding Hope is sure to delight fans of WWII adventure cloaked in sweet romance. Come to the place where the war began and discover hope in the darkest places.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Cindy Kay Stewart, a retired high school social studies teacher and current church pianist, writes stories of hope, steeped in love, and anchored in faith. Her manuscripts have won the Touched by Love Award, the First Impressions contest, and the Sandra Robbins Inspirational Writing Award. They’ve also finaled in the Maggie Award of Excellence and the Cascade Awards, and semi-finaled in the Genesis contest. Cindy is passionate about revealing God’s handiwork in history. She resides in North Georgia with her college sweetheart and husband of forty-two years. Her daughter, son-in-law, and four adorable grandchildren live nearby. Cindy’s currently writing the Circle of Hope series set in WWII Europe.


More from Cindy

WWII is a fascinating time period—so many miracles took place in the midst of great tragedy. There has never been an era of history when so many people sacrificed so much to save the world from evil.

During my research for Abounding Hope, I uncovered many interesting and nearly unbelievable stories from the beginning of the war. Within the context of historical fiction, I had the opportunity to recast these true events through the lives of my fictional characters. I endeavored to remain true to history throughout the book, even with dates and places. None of the historical events and places in Abounding Hope are fictional.

Abounding Hope is set in Poland and Hungary at the beginning of WWII. The main characters, Jonathan and Irena, are Americans who have lived in Europe most of their lives. They’re also civilians who learn to surrender their expectations and trust the Lord through their harrowing experiences. In the end, they also find love. Their romance adds soft and intriguing elements to a story set during such a difficult time in history.

Blog Stops

Pause for Tales, May 14

Alena Mentink, May 14

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 15

DevotedToHope, May 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 18

Lights in a Dark World, May 18

Texas Book-aholic, May 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 20

lakesidelivingsite, May 21

For Him and My Family, May 22

Stories By Gina, May 23 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 23

Betti Mace, May 24

The Lofty Pages, May 25

Cover Lover Book Review, May 26

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, May 27

Giveaway


To celebrate her tour, Cindy is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/2b7ca/abounding-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway


My Review

I found Abounding Hope to be an excellent debut novel for Cindy Kay Stewart. This World War II era novel is based on true events. I found it interesting and intriguing. I was honored to take this at times dangerous adventure with Irena and Jonathan. Their tale offers readers the story of hope even during the worst of times. I love the faith element within the pages, as well as, the sweet romance. A beautiful book to read. I loved it.

I am giving Abounding Hope five stars. I believe fans of clean historical romance will no doubt enjoy it as much as me. I would love to read more books from the talented author, Cindy Kay Stewart.

I received a paperback copy of Cindy Kay Stewart's Abounding Hope from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.