Wednesday, August 31, 2016

An Intense , Heart Throbbing Book!

"Without Warning"
By Lynette Eason

Synopsis:

Taut Writing and Breakneck Pacing That Will Keep Readers Up All Night

Katie Singleton, a partner with the Elite Guardians Protection Agency, stumbles upon her next assignment quite by accident. Spotting blue lights at a familiar restaurant, she stops to investigate, only to discover that owner Daniel Matthews has become the target of someone who will go to any lengths to put him out of business.

Daniel might be concerned, but he's not convinced that a bodyguard--and a female one at that--is necessary. A new attack and his niece's urgings are enough to make him reconsider. He and Katie must figure out who's behind the intimidation and threats--before a would-be killer strikes again.

Witty dialogue and a simmering attraction will have readers flying through this tension-laced thriller. Eason exercises complete control of her readers' emotions as they race through the pages to discover the truth.

My Thoughts:

"Without Warning" is the second in Lynette's "Elite Guardian" series and I must say that after reading the first, I thought it was the best she had written!! BUT, once again, I am happy to admit that I was wrong! If you want to read a romantic suspense that will cause your heart to throb, this is the book for you!! I absolutely loved it! It is one of those books that you just can not put down until you have read the last page.

The character development is outstanding. The realistic, well described characters, immediately catch your attention and their lives become part of you. I easily identified with each of them and loved following their journeys in their faith. Their paths in life were full of challenges and trials, with each success seeming to end in another obstacle suddenly appearing to make the road even rougher. I felt every worry and fear, causing my heart to catch in my throat. That, my friends, makes ONE GREAT BOOK!

Ms. Eason wrote a fantastic story of mystery and suspense . The plot moves quickly, packed with action. There are twists and turns at every corner, keeping you on the edge of your chair. Danger is present throughout the story . Just when you think you have all the details figured out, another totally shocking, unexpected roadblock appears !

The underlying theme throughout the book is one of keeping one's faith even through the most distressing and fearful times. God is present always. We just have to remember to call on Him. The book is not one that preaches but it does have a very clear message!

This is definitely a five star book! I am eagerly awaiting the next in this series which is will be released in Feb. 2017.

This Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and is now available at your local booksellers.

"When things seem too good to be true, they often are...."

"What Matters Most"
By Kellie Coates Gilbert

Synopsis:

Deeply Emotional Writing Highlights the Complexities of Human Relationships

Leta Breckenridge is forced to drop out of college to care for her dementia-ridden mother. After learning a severely delinquent account may force her mother into a less desirable facility, Leta steps out of her comfort zone and lands a high-paying job at an Austin public relations firm. But her dream job turns into a nightmare when she learns the firm is a front for a political opposition machine--and that the research she's been collecting will be used against her new love interest, Nathan Emerson.

Nathan is a rising political star being pressured to run a bid to unseat the current governor of Texas. He's already in a relationship with a woman much better suited to be a politician's wife, but he's never met anyone like Leta. Could this feisty, challenging woman hold the key to his heart?

My Thoughts:

This book is part of the "Texas Gold" Series. It can be read as a stand alone as they do not have connecting characters. These books focus on women who are facing challenges in their lives. Each one hopes that the changes will be positive, however, discover that this isn't always the case, so they must accept the inevitable and deal with it.

Kellie deals with a difficult, heartbreaking topic with sensitivity and grace. As one who has dealt with dementia of a parent, this book struck a chord with me that had me living the story alongside Leta. Every battle she faced was one that I felt deep within.

The characters are realistic and so well developed that I easily and quickly identified with them. Their challenges became mine!!! Leta was a person who I learned to admire, her patience, understanding and determination to help her mother were qualities that deserved a medal. Leta faces struggles that one never desires. When torn between right and wrong, what will Leta choose?? Nathan is also dealing with many bumps in his journey, being torn between the expectations of his family and his constituents. As Nathan is in the public eye , he fights a very different kind of battle. He must please the public! But can he????

The plot moves at a steady pace with just enough unexpected twists and turns to keep the reader engaged from beginning to end. Although I did not completely understand all of the politics involved in the story, I did love the fact that someone in the public eye would care for those who voted for him in such a meaningful way. Leta's battle to honour her Christian values that her mom had instilled in her, was one that was not easy. I felt her every challenge, fear and worry. As she and Nathan become closer, their journey to do right and keep their faith strong becomes more evident. Although their battles appear very different , a common bond draws them together.

I highly recommend this book!! A great read! The underlying message to keep your faith strong at all times, even during the most trying periods, is one that had a great impact on me.

This Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and is now available at your local booksellers.

Blueberry Cupcakes and an Amish Mystery!! What could be better??? Be Sure to Enter the Giveaway!

"The Blueberry Cupcake Mystery"
By Naomi Miller

Don't forget to enter the contest !!

Synopsis:
In the small town of Abbott Creek, mystery is as much a part of daily life as The Sweet Shop’s sugar cookies. Katie Chupp spends her days at The Sweet Shop, taking care of customers and baking delicious treats . . . not exactly a profession where one expects to be thrown into the midst of mysteries and mayhem. But when the bakery is broken into, someone has to find the thief . . . besides finding another place to do the baking and get the orders to the customers. Is this a random theft, or is the thief trying to ruin the town’s Independence Day celebration?

My Thoughts:
Who doesn't love blueberry cupcakes??? The title of this book alone, plus the beautiful cover , immediately grabbed my attention!

The Blueberry Cupcake Mystery is a the first in a series of books entitled "Amish Sweet Shop Mystery". Although a short read, it has all of the qualities that a good novel should exhibit!! The setting is perfect for a cozy mystery, the Amish town of Abbott Creek, a quiet, calm place where the reader expects to feel at home immediately. Would you ever expect a crime to be committed in this delightful community?? I certainly didn't!

The book captured my attention right from the mysterious burglary until the final pages when the mystery was solved. Thank goodness, this was a rather short read, as I could NOT put this book down. It kept me intrigued from beginning to end.

The characters are described in such a realistic , detailed way, that I was immediately caught up in their lives. Katie was a favorite, with her eternal optimism and ability to deal with any obstacles that appeared in her path. Regardless of the bumps in her peaceful life, she always remained her sweet self and came up with solutions to solve the problems. Her willingness to forgive is an example that we all need to follow.

The plot moves steadily with just enough action to keep one engrossed throughout the novel. The underlying message of compassion , forgiveness and faith clearly appears throughout the story.

I would highly recommend this book to all readers. It is a cozy mystery with a deeper meaning that shines through, a good example to all of us.

This book was supplied by the author and CelebrateLit, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Guest Post from Naomi Miller

I want to share with you how the title and cover for my debut book, Blueberry Cupcake Mystery, was chosen. This is a story I haven’t shared with anyone else — yet. The story behind the blueberry cupcake…

I was actually writing an Amish suspense novel last winter, when God placed it on my heart to write a shorter story — a cozy mystery, with no suspense, no danger, but plenty of faith, family, compassion and community.

While thinking of the best way to begin the story, my daughter made a batch of blueberry cupcakes, which happen to be one of my favorite treats. Of course, the idea to use a favorite treat was too good to resist. Then, during the early days of writing, I began experimenting with the idea of baking cupcakes — but adding blueberries before baking. Two favorite treats in one!

And there you have it . . . once we had a picture of a blueberry cupcake, the designer quickly sent back a cover I fell in love with (although there were a few more tweaks before the final cover was approved).

I actually began writing many years ago — 1990 to be exact. But I had just become a single mom and I didn’t have time to pursue it. I wrote notes, letters, articles, short stories, and I occasionally thought about a career as a novelist, but not once did I consider that dream to ever become a reality.

Several years ago, after my children were grown, my daughter challenged me to write a novel. I began a sweet, Amish fiction story about a young girl—but about halfway into the story, someone was almost murdered! Needless to say, I was surprised, but kept going. Once done, I went back to the beginning to do a major re-write on what was now an Amish suspense novel.

And that’s . . . the rest of the story.

I’m also excited to be doing two special giveaways — 1) a gift bag full of treats and 2) an advanced reader digital copy of Christmas Cookie Mystery (but you’ll have to wait for it)!

In the meantime, here’s the recipe for those delicious blueberry cupcakes

Blueberry Cupcakes

Ingredients1 white or yellow cake mix
2 cups fresh blueberries
3 eggs
1/3 cup oil
1 1/3 cup water
Prepare cake mix according to the directions. Add blueberries and fold into batter. Bake following instructions on cake mix box.

Icing1 cup confectioner’s sugar
2 tbsp. milk
additional milk as needed
DirectionsPrepare icing, mixing small amounts of confectioner’s sugar with milk to desired consistency. Spread onto cooled cupcakes.

About the Author

Naomi Miller mixes up a batch of intrigue, sprinkled with Amish, Mennonite, & English characters, adding a pinch of mystery – and a dash of romance!

Naomi’s day is spent focusing on her writing, editing, and blogging about her experiences with writing. When she’s not working diligently to finish the next book in her Sweet Shop Mystery series, Naomi tries to make time for attending workshops and writers conferences. One of her favorites is the four-day event that the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) organization holds annually.

Naomi also enjoys traveling with her family, singing inspirational/gospel music, taking a daily walk, and witnessing to others of the amazing grace of Jesus Christ.

Purchase your copy here.

To see other reviews on this Blog Tour:

Blog Stops

August 23: A Baker’s Perspective

August 23: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner

August 23: Blogging With Carol

August 24: cherylbbookblog

August 24: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

August 24: Running Through The Storms

August 25: A Greater Yes

August 25: A Holland Reads

August 25: Mary Hake

August 26: Gypsy Road

August 26: D’s Quilts & Books

August 26: Cassandra M’s Place

August 27: Bigreadersite

August 27: Bibliophile Reviews

August 27: Christian Bookaholic

August 28: Lighthouse Academy

August 28: Book Babble

August 29: Karilyn Putt

August 30: Karen’s Krayons

August 30: Daysong Reflections

August 31: Quiet Quilter

August 31: Blossoms and Blessings

September 1: Lights in a Dark World

September 1: Just Commonly

September 2: Singing Librarian Books

September 2: His Grace is Sufficient

September 3: Bukwurmzzz

September 4: Ashley’s Bookshelf

September 4: just the write escape

September 5: Reading Is My SuperPower

September 5: Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses

To celebrate her tour, Naomi is giving away a gift bag full of treats and an advanced copy of her new book Christmas Cookie Mystery! Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/a20c

Read these SWEET books! Don't Miss Entering the Giveaway!!

"The Honeybee Sisters"

By Jennifer Beckstrand

Synopses:

"Sweet As Honey"

Smart, kind, and good-hearted, the three Christner girls are affectionately known as The Honeybee Sisters in the beloved Wisconsin Amish community where, under the care of their aunt, they’ve grown into skilled beekeepers–and lovely, sought-after young women. . .

Though she has blossomed into a beauty, Lily Christner doesn’t really believe it. Deep down, she still feels like a lonely, gawky teenager. Maybe that’s why she’s all but promised herself to Paul Glick, the one boy who never teased her in her awkward girlhood–unlike Dan Kanagy, whose creative name-calling left her in tears many a time. Now he’s back in town after two years away–and being surprisingly sweet, suspiciously attentive–and making Lily unsettlingly yet deliciously nervous. It seems Dan wants Lily’s forgiveness–and her heart. But can he convince her–not to mention her protective schwesters and aendi–that despite the past, her future lies with him?…

"Bee In Her Bonnet"

Lively, determined, and independent, Poppy Christner isn’t about to let some vandal keep making mischief on her family’s farm. She’s been outrunning boys and standing up for picked-on children ever since she was a girl–no matter how much her prideful, arrogant schoolmate Luke Bontrager insulted her. So Poppy certainly doesn’t need his interference now, especially since he’s made it plain he prefers demure, ladylike companions. In fact, if Luke doesn’t stop helping her find the culprit–and growing humble and remorseful–she’ll be forced to notice how handsome his change-of-heart is making him. And that could mean falling in love–maybe for a lifetime…

"Like a Bee to Honey"

Shy, skittish Rose Christner is more comfortable tending to the beehives on the family farm and keeping her aunt’s unruly cats in line than attending social gatherings with the rest of the die youngie. A childhood trauma and secret shame keep her heart under lock and key, and Rose just can’t accept the sweet attention she’s receiving from a handsome neighbor. But the more she shies away from Josiah Yoder, the more their families sneakily plot to bring them together. And when a vandal who’s been plaguing the Honeybee Farm starts targeting Rose, Josiah’s steadfast protection—and patience—just may lead her into his waiting arms…

My Thoughts:

I have to admit, Jennifer Beckstrand is one of my "go to" authors when I wish to read something lighthearted, amusing, but also full of meaning. Her warm and witty style just fills me with joy and satisfaction, as I read about her unique characters in their rather fumbling lives. These ladies are "as sweet as honey"! The covers of these books attracted my attention right away. Bright and different!!

Jennifer writes of three sisters being raised by their aunt in Wisconsin. The characters are realistically and so well described, that I immediately became drawn into their lives and challenges. And I must the say, the challenges were many! Lily, Poppy and Rose are a trio of sisters who definitely each have their own personality! Aunt Bitsy is a quirky, amusing older woman who kept me laughing throughout the story. I could just picture this lady in her dangling earring and garish dress in a traditional Amish community. The whole picture just made me smile.

The plots are well developed and all have a clear message. Keeping one's faith is the one important thing that appears in all of these books. I was engrossed from the first page of the books until the end. Although easy reads, they keep the reader guessing throughout as to the final outcomes. The twists and turns are just enough to give the reader the occasional surprise.

Jennifer gives us some educational facts about beekeeping within the storylines. I learned some things that I was totally unaware of . So.... in addition to making me smile, giggle a bit, she taught me !! I can hardly wait for another book in this series. A truly pleasant read!!!

LOVE this author!! Don't miss these great books!

These books were provided by the author and CelebrateLit in exchange for a fair and honest review.

About the Author

Jennifer Beckstrand is the bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hillseries for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer was nominated for the RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice Award and the 2015 RITA® Award, and Huckleberry Hill won the 2014 LIME Award for Inspirational fiction. Both Huckleberry Hill and Huckleberry Christmas appeared in Examiner.com list of top ten inspirational books for 2014.

Jennifer has always been drawn to the strong faith and the enduring family ties of the Plain people and loves writing about the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth. Jennifer has a degree in mathematics and a background in editing. She and her husband have been married for thirty years, and she has four daughters, two sons, and four adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.

Guest Post from Jennifer Beckstrand

Lily, Poppy, and Rose Christner are known as the Honeybee Sisters in their Wisconsin Amish community because they keep bees and sell the honey they pull from their beehives. The orphaned sisters came to live with their aunt Bitsy when they were very young. Aunt Bitsy was an Englischer for twenty years, but she is trying to raise her nieces to be gute and devout Amish girls.

Still, Aunt Bitsy is a bit eccentric and has brought some of the Englisch ways with her to the Honeybee Farm. She wears her dangly earrings when she’s in a bad mood, sports temporary tattoos just for fun, keeps a shotgun by the front door, and has a cat named Farrah Fawcett. (Bitsy simply adored “Charlie’s Angels.”)

With the honey they pull from their hives, the Honeybee schwesters make all sorts of appeditlich, delicious, things to eat. Their baking and their beauty attract boys to the Honeybee Farm, so Aunt Bitsy has to keep her shotgun handy to ward off the would-be suitors.

Many of the Honeybee Sisters’ recipes are included at the back of the three Honeybee Sister novels. Many more can be found in The Honeybee Sisters Cookbook available on Amazon and other online bookstores.

I hope you’ll fall in love with the Honeybee sisters, Aunt Bitsy, and their incomparable Bienenstich (Bee Sting) Cake—which recipe is included in both the cookbook and Sweet as Honey.

Here is a recipe the Honeybee Sisters would definitely make. My dear friend gave me some of these caramels for Christmas last year, and they are heavenly. The honey is used in place of the more-common corn syrup and gives the caramels a rich, deep flavor. My favorite thing about these caramels is the coarse sea salt that gives the caramels a salty crunch. Yummy!

Honey Vanilla Caramels

1 ½ cup sugar

½ cup honey

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup salted butter, cut into bits

Coarse sea salt

Line a rimmed cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a clay, enamel, glass, plastic, or stainless steel (non-reactive) pot, combine the sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together using a large rubber spatula or wooden spoon. Cook over medium-low heat until the sugar melts. When the sugar has melted, increase heat to medium and cook until the mixture caramelizes and is a deep amber color. Do not stir the mixture once it starts to boil. Instead, swirl it around occasionally with the pan’s handle. (This will help the caramel cook more evenly.)

While the caramel is cooking, place the heavy cream in a small saucepan on low heat. As soon as it reaches a simmer, remove pan from the heat and set aside.

When the caramel has reached a deep amber color, reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in the bits of butter. Whisk well until the butter is completely melted.

Add the warm cream and whisk until smooth.

Turn the heat back up to medium and cook until the caramel reaches a temperature of 245°. Carefully pour the hot caramel onto the parchment-lined cookie sheet. Let it rest for about 8 minutes, then sprinkle with desired amount of sea salt.

Cool completely (about three hours), before cutting in

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away five copies of The Honeybee Sisters Cookbook! Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/a20d

Blog Stops

August 25: A Reader’s Brain

August 25: Southern Gal Loves to Read

August 26: Smiling Book Reviews

August 26: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

August 27: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

August 27: Christian Bookaholic

August 28: Jeanette’s Thoughts

August 28: The Power of Words

August 29: Blossoms and Blessings

August 30: A Baker’s Perspective

August 30: Cassandra M’s Place

August 31: cherylbbookblog

August 31: Quiet Quilter

September 1: Rhonda’s Doings

September 1: Book Babble

September 2: Lighthouse Academy

September 3: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner

September 4: Bukwurmzzz

September 5: Donna’s BookShelf

September 6: His Grace is Sufficient

September 7: Blogging with Carol

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

RELEASED TODAY!! Collection of Novellas by Four Fabulous Authors!!

"An Amish Harvest"

Four Novellas

By: Beth Wiseman
Kathleen Fuller
Amy Clipston
Vannetta Chapman

Synopsis:

Faith, hope, and love remain forever in season in this collection of four richly absorbing novellas set amidst the wonder of an Amish autumn.

Under the Harvest Moon, by Beth Wiseman

When Naomi Dienner is suddenly widowed, she never expects to find love again . . . until she meets Brock Mulligan, an English family friend hired at harvest time. As a sinister presence begins to threaten Naomi, Brock seeks to prove himself trustworthy while struggling with growing feelings for Naomi and her children. Will God open Naomi’s heart—and give Brock his own second chance at love?

Love and Buggy Rides, by Amy Clipston

Janie Lantz is a cashier at Lancaster Souvenirs and Buggy Rides, where Jonathan Stoltfuz is a buggy driver. A frightening accident brings Janie and Jonathan together in a blossoming friendship, yet daunting obstacles stand between them and something deeper. Can love kindle into flames that burn away fear and regret—and lead them to a life together?

Mischief in the Autumn Air, by Vannetta Chapman When items start going above market value at his auction house, Eli Wittmer is first thrilled, and then puzzled. But when the house is broken into, Eli and his new bookkeeper, Martha Beiler track down a trail of clues. Will they solve the mystery before the fall festival ends—and discover an unexpected new love?

A Quiet Love, by Kathleen Fuller Dinah Hochstetler, quiet and bookish, longs for marriage but hides in her shyness. Amos Mullett, a simple farmer, knows he’s different but aches for a loving wife. As Dinah and Amos navigate a budding romance, will the power of love—and the blessing of God—be enough to overcome their doubters?

My Thoughts:

Given a chance to review this book, which just happens to be written by four of my favorite authors, was indeed an honor and a pleasure!! I must admit that any book of Amish Fiction is high on my list of "To Read" titles.

Each of these authors has the unique ability to write Amish stories, each with very different characters and unusual topics, yet blending together to make a winning book! All of the stories take place in the time of harvest, in the autumn. One creation just seems to flow into the next tale with ease.

Beth's talent of making the characters come to life is obvious in her tale. I became one with them and fought their challenges alongside them. A developing romance was evident but along with it came toils and troubles. Love and forgiveness run throughout this novella.

Amy's story blended the Englischer's world together with the Amish community in a unique way. The clash of the two cultures disrupted the budding romance of the two main characters. The feeling of turmoil was felt deep within as I read this tale.

Vannetta writes with her own special talent of creating a mystery within an Amish story. The plot moved quickly with twists and turns surprising me, yes, even shocking me at times, in every chapter. Can a new love overcome the tensions and fears?

Kathleen's story exemplifies her strong character development. You feel the pressures and challenges of an extremely shy individual who struggles to find love. My heart ached for this dear soul who had to strive so hard to find contentment and happiness.

These authors came together and wrote a book that flows from story to story, without a struggle. This is unusual to find. Although each story was very different , they seemed to belong together. Hard to explain but you will see this when you read this awesome collection of novellas!

A GREAT book!! Don't miss it!!

Being released on August 16th, 2016.

This book was provided by the publisher and authors, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Sunday, August 14, 2016

Another Great Read By Janet Ferguson! Make sure that you enter the giveaway!!!

"Tackling the Fields"
By Janet W. Ferguson

Synopsis: Cole Sanders is a changed man. The university quarterback questions his direction in life after serving on a mission trip in Honduras. Things that used to fill Cole’s ego seem empty after witnessing the developing country’s extreme poverty and the death of a precious child. The one glimmer of hope through his confusion is the fresh perspective he now has about his tutor, Audrey. She possesses something beautiful inside and out—something that might help him become the person he wants to be.

University senior Audrey Vaughn tutored Cole Sanders for an entire year and never imagined the popular quarterback would see her as anything more than a friend. After partnering with him on the mission trip, they are drawn together. And he appears to have changed for the better. To let Cole into her life, Audrey will have to overcome not only her brother’s distrust, but also the paralyzing fear still lingering from a past she’s tried to leave behind.

Cole can’t walk away from Audrey now that they’re back in Oxford. He’ll have to figure out how to keep her giant of a brother, a lineman on his football team, from killing him when the coach has his back turned. But can Audrey trust her heart to a player so similar to the one who stole so much from her in the past?

My Thoughts: This book is one that had me engaged from the first page. It addresses a topic that is so often ignored, as it is one that is hard for many of us to discuss. The author does an excellent job of addressing it in a realistic , sensitive manner .

The characters are extremely well developed in such a way that you are immediately drawn into their lives and feel their every challenge and hurt. I easily identified with Audrey, a darling young lady who has experienced unthinkable events in her past that are a great stumbling block to her attaining happiness. Cole was clearly a charmer who was used to getting what he wanted. His life changing experience was one that encourages us all that there is always hope and forgiveness. God is loving and will always give us second chances. Cole was wise enough to grab onto that chance and make a better life for himself.

The plot moved at a steady pace, keeping the reader engaged throughout the book. There were just enough twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat as I read about the bumps in the road , as these young people journey through life. Lives can change !! God makes it possible!! But do we always take time to listen to that quiet voice that gives us choices that we must make.??

As I read, I thought of how many people there are that have been affected by similar circumstances. Janet Ferguson has written a truly insightful book that would be an excellent read for all young people. A great discussion builder!! Not to say, that we older folks won't enjoy it!!

Definitely a worthwhile read!!! Don't miss this book!!

This book was provided by the author and CelebrateLit in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Purchase your copy here.

About the Author: Janet W. Ferguson grew up in Mississippi and received a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Mississippi. She has served her church as a children’s minister and a youth volunteer. An avid reader, she worked as a librarian at a large public high school. Janet and her husband have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a few cats that allow them to share the space.

Guest Post from Janet Ferguson

Hi, I’m Janet W. Ferguson, and I’m so excited to be back again and meet more readers through Celebrate Lit!

This is a story I didn’t want to write, but felt called to tackle. The loss of the dream, the loss of innocence, and life’s other unfair struggles can challenge our faith—can make us captive to fear and disappointment.

In the South, we love football. In writing this book, I’m not trying to make a statement for or against the sport. My husband and son loved playing the game. After my son suffered a torn ACL, torn shoulder labrum, and four surgeries, he could no longer participate in the game he loved. He mourned the loss of the brotherhood of his team. I saw the popular pastime differently from his eyes. For young men, I believe it is a bond between friends for a common goal. Though the character in this book is totally fictional, I’m dedicating this book to my son, Luke.

The other sensitive topics in this story seemed particularly sad, but relevant in our society. Trust me, I didn’t prefer to research acquaintance/date rape or human trafficking, but both are going on all too often in communities both small and large. There are a number of organizations set up to help victims of these crimes if you feel a calling to help.

Someone reading this may have had something terrible that happened in their past or may know someone who has. God is able to set free the captives, set you free from the bonds that hold you. My prayer is that you find comfort in that truth.