Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.

D.R. Grady

Title of book and/or series:

Seeking: Warrior King

Brief summary of the story:

With her beloved mother dying, Crown Princess Raene of Montequirst must prepare to be queen and choose a husband within hours of the death. By law, he must be the greatest warrior in the land. The only man who fits that description, who she can tolerate, is her friend and mentor, Vidar the Loyal. He’s a member of the elite Aasguard warriors, who have never married in their centuries of existence.

While the mightiest men of the nation circle Raene in an attempt to boost their own rank and wealth, a neighboring country is also making plans against Montequirst. With the aid of his clumsy dragon companion, Vidar has been teaching Raene to wield her legendary sword in order to defend her throne. Meanwhile, they’re both battling an attraction neither understands.

Can they possibly break the age-old traditions that bind them and choose their heart’s desire?

Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:

Montequirst is a prosperous, busy country. The homes are well cared for and the crops plentiful. Their animals are considered among the finest in the surrounding regions.

A queendom—Montequirst has been run by a queen for the last five hundred years. Queen Margina, Raene’s mother, dies and leaves the throne to her beloved daughter, Raene.

The men of Montequirst use swords and canons to defend themselves. Sword fighting, and being a warrior, is the best profession for a male, although there are other options. If the nation is wealthy enough, it might also have an Aasguard warrior and dragon to guard the treasury, which Montequirst does.

Aasguard warriors, such as Vidar the Loyal, are no longer human, but are a more advanced version. For instance, they can withstand dragonfyre. While not immortal, they are difficult to kill. If they are fortunate enough to have a dragon companion, the long years aren’t so lonely.

If we were to visit Montequirst as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?

The farmers markets would offer an array of fruits and vegetables, and fine wares. And now that spring is upon them, even more so. If you’re fortunate enough, you might be invited to one of the many manor homes for a meal and perhaps a gathering.

What dangers should we avoid in Montequirst?

Don’t run afoul of Aern, the castle dragon. He contains plenty of dragonfyre.

What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Monequirst?

Again, swords are prevalent. Hand-to-hand combat skills are a necessity, and if you achieve the proper rank, you might be trained to blast a canon. (Be aware, only males are always trained in swords and self-defense. A ridiculous notion Raene chaffs against.)

What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Monequirst?

Horses are prevalent for one person. But for multiple people and to convey wares, they use cream colored transports, hulled out cocol pods, which are round and after being outfitted with seating and wheels, make a comfortable mode of transportation. The original fruit is used in the making of many products in Montequirst.

Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Montequirst? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.

Handheld crystals, after some wizardry, have the capability of texting one another, keeping track of appointments and tasks, and the like. Whether these simple crystals are magic or technology is up for debate.

Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Montequirst as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?

Montequirst is much like Earth in the weeks and months. They do enjoy four seasons.

As for holidays, the day Raene’s mother, the Queen of Montequirst, dies will be known as Accession Day. Also, a celebration every year will mark Raene’s wedding—an indication of their continued prosperity.

What is the political or government structure in Montequirst? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?

Montequirst is again, a queendom. Raene’s mother ruled before her, and upon Queen Margina’s death, Raene rules. Her husband, who is made a king upon their marriage, protects her and oversees their vast military. He aids her should she need it, but Raene has been learning the queen’s duties since birth. Her choices—such as the warrior she chooses to wed—will determine whether the nation’s current prosperity continues, or not.

Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Montequirst?

Besides the antiquated practice that upon her mother’s death, Raene is therefore forced to name her husband? Yes, and she has a few pithy things to say about this barbaric practice as well as the lack of sword and self-defense training for all females.

Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?

A battery ad, and then a dream, inspired this first story in the series. Book two is entitled Seeking: Maiden Queen. Book two takes up where book one left off with two characters we meet in book one.

Author Autobiography:

-Clean, heartwarming stories, every time.-

D.R. Grady is the author of over twenty clean, heartwarming romance novels. She lives with her husband near Hershey, PA and adores chocolate, laughing, collecting bags, books, and shoes. Oh, and writing clean stories that resonate with others.

Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.

You can purchase Seeking: Warrior King at the following retailers:

Amazon

Google Play (epub)

Smashwords (multiple formats)

Barnes and Noble

The paper book is coming…

Where can readers connect with you online?

Website: drgradyboooks.com

Amazon Author page

Twitter: @drgradybooks

Facebook Page

Instagram

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I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Montequirst. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!

Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.

Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!

-Annie Douglass Lima

Author’s name: Annie Douglass Lima

Title of book and/or series: The Nameless Soldier (book 4 in the Annals of Alasia)
Other books in the series:
Prince of Alasia
In the Enemy’s Service
Prince of Malorn

Brief summary of the story:

What do you do when you’re the only survivor?

Nineteen-year-old Tarvic bears the name of a mighty hero from Alasia’s past. However, the young soldier feels anything but heroic when he regains consciousness to find himself the lone survivor of a brutal attack by invaders from the neighboring kingdom.

Forced to leave his identity behind, Tarvic is thrust into civilian life in the role of protector to three war orphans. When the four of them encounter a mysterious stranger, he must choose between keeping the young girls safe and taking on a mission that could help free his kingdom. Can Tarvic live up to his noble name and find a way to balance his duty and his dreams?

The Nameless Soldier is the fourth book in the Annals of Alasia, but the series can be read in any order, and each book can stand on its own.

Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:

Alasia has long been a peaceful kingdom, with only occasional minor border skirmishes with neighboring Malorn. There hasn’t been an actual war in six generations … until recently when the Malornians attacked, invading suddenly with no apparent provocation.

If we were to visit Alasia as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?

Alasia is a peninsula, with hundreds of miles of beautiful coastline. It’s winter now, so not an ideal time for swimming or sunbathing, but the scenery would still make for a gorgeous stroll along the water in many areas.

Ordinarily, I would suggest visiting the king’s palace in the capital city of Almar, if you can manage to get an invitation. But the palace has been taken over by Malornians and turned into their headquarters, so it would be best to stay away.

For a taste of local culture, try visiting one of the large markets, where vendors sell everything from fresh baked pastries to leather goods to homemade cheese. There are taverns and restaurants where you can stop for a drink or a meal, but you’ll want to be careful. Malornian soldiers frequent many of them, and some go around looking for trouble.

What dangers should we avoid in Malornian-occupied Alasia?

Try to stay away from Malornian soldiers if you can. Lately they have been pillaging crops and livestock from farming communities. After one very close call at the farm where he’s staying, Tarvic finds a creative and unusual way to make sure anyone else who passes that way won’t steal from them. The soldiers also sometimes harrass civilians in the cities, so it’s best to give them a wide berth and not make eye contact as you pass. If you travel into or out of Almar, the capital, you can expect to be stopped at one of the roadblocks. If you cooperate, chances are you won’t be harmed, but they’ll want to search your cart or wagon. (Rumor has it they’re looking for someone ….)

Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Alasia?

That depends on your budget or whom you’re visiting. Tarvic and the three girls he ends up helping don’t have money to spare, though they have access to milk and butter thanks to the family’s cows. Their meals tend to consist of watered-down soup or thin slices of bread with plenty of butter and tall glasses of milk. However, if you can afford to eat at a restaurant, you could dine on roast beef and other hearty fare.

What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Malornian-Occupied Alasia?

The Malornian soldiers carry swords around with them, but they don’t allow Alasians to bear arms in the city. If you arrive with a weapon, you can expect to have it confiscated as you enter town. Tarvic is a trained hunter and makes good use of the sturdy bow and arrows that once belonged to the girls’ father. Later he seizes the opportunity to use them for more than just hunting ….

What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Alasia?

Most people ride on horseback or in a cart or wagon if they have one. At one point Tarvic and the girls are forced to make a journey on foot, bringing supplies along in a wheelbarrow.

Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Alasia.

Like most Alasian soldiers, Tarvic enjoys card games, though he learned his lesson about playing for money when he lost two days’ pay to a man in his company named Dannel. He was surprised to learn that the girls under his care know most of the same card games he does, and the four of them often play in the evenings. The youngest girl, Sennie, doesn’t have much concept of strategy and needs lots of help from her sisters, but the four of them have a good time together just the same.

What is the political or government structure in Malornian-occupied Alasia? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?

Officially, Malorn is ruled by the teenage Prince Korram (his father King Kerman died a few years ago). Young Korram is technically now the ruler of Alasia as well. However, since Korram is not yet eighteen, a regent named Rampus assists him in the rule of both kingdoms. Partway through the story, Rampus moves to Alasia to oversee his – er, Korram’s – new conquest.

Author Autobiography:

Annie Douglass Lima spent most of her childhood in Kenya and later graduated from Biola University in Southern California. She and her husband Floyd currently live in Taiwan, where she teaches fifth grade at Morrison Academy. She has been writing poetry, short stories, and novels since her childhood, and to date has published seventeen books (four YA action and adventure novels, five fantasies, a puppet script, six anthologies of her students’ poetry, and a Bible verse coloring and activity book). Besides writing, her hobbies include reading (especially fantasy and science fiction), scrapbooking, and international travel.

Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?

Click on the following links to see or purchase the books on Amazon:

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The Nameless Soldier
Prince of Alasia
In the Enemy’s Service
Prince of Malorn
Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews (not available for purchase, but click on the link to tell me your email address and I’ll send you a free copy!)

Where can readers connect with you online?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnieDouglassLimaAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/princeofalasia

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGoodreads

Google+: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGooglePlus

Amazon Author Page: http://bit.ly/AnnieDouglassLimaOnAmazon

LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnLinkedIn

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/AnnieDouglassLima

Bloglovin: https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/letters-from-annie-douglass-lima-6275229

Sign up for my email list to find out when I release a new book (and receive a free copy of Annals of Alasia: The Collected Interviews): http://bit.ly/LimaUpdates

I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Malornian-occupied Alasia. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!

Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.

Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!

-Annie Douglass Lima

The Nameless Soldier is book 4 in the Annals of Alasia young adult fantasy series. Haven’t read all (or any) of the others? That’s okay! The books can be read in any order, and each one can stand on its own.

Description:

What do you do when you’re the only survivor?

Nineteen-year-old Tarvic bears the name of a mighty hero from Alasia’s past. However, the young soldier feels anything but heroic when he regains consciousness to find himself the lone survivor of a brutal attack by invaders from the neighboring kingdom.

Forced to leave his identity behind, Tarvic is thrust into civilian life in the role of protector to three war orphans. When the four of them encounter a mysterious stranger, he must choose between keeping the young girls safe and taking on a mission that could help free his kingdom. Can Tarvic live up to his noble name and find a way to balance his duty and his dreams?

Where to Get a Copy:

Click here to buy the ebook or paperback from Amazon.

Not sure if you’ll like the story or not? Take a look at the first chapter and see!

The Nameless Soldier

Chapter One

Tarvic woke to the sound of a distant yell, abruptly silenced. He pushed his blankets aside and sat up, puzzled, but heard only the light patter of rain on the canvas. “What was that?”

Drevel, his roommate in the barracks and tentmate out on campaigns like this, stirred and rolled over. “What?”

“I heard something. Someone shouting.”

“It’s probably just another drill.” But Drevel sat up too, shoving his own blankets away, as Tarvic crawled over and untied the tent flap.

A blast of wintry air and raindrops greeted him as he leaned out, peering across the tent-studded hillside. Clouds hid the moon and stars, and on every side the thick dark of the forest leaned in from the edges of the large clearing. But the telltale flickering light of distant torches sent shadows leaping over tents and across the open spaces between them. Why would someone be using torches out here? Any soldier in camp had easy access to lanterns among the supplies.

Something was wrong. Very wrong. Tarvic pulled back into the tent and yanked on his breeches and jacket.

They both heard the next yell, closer this time, and then the unmistakable clash of swords. Both men snatched up their own swords, jamming their feet into their boots and fumbling for shields. From all around them, shouts of alarm erupted as men in their company woke up.

And then the enemy was upon them. Horses exploded through the camp, trampling tents and the soldiers just crawling out of them. Riders leaned low off their mounts’ backs, swinging swords and waving torches.

Halfway out of his tent, Tarvic threw himself flat on his face to avoid a slash that would probably have decapitated him. He scrambled to his feet, only to be knocked off them again by a blow that he barely caught on his shield.

Light, shadows, horses, blades, rain. Chaos raged through the clearing to the sound of crashing metal, pounding hooves, shouts of challenge and desperation. Tarvic regained his feet and fought as best he could from the ground while enemy riders thundered around him. Dodging and ducking, he aimed for the men’s legs and tried to keep out from under their horses’ hooves. With no idea who he was fighting or why, his only goal to stay alive for the next heartbeat, he dodged and darted through the tumult looking for spots where horses and enemy swords weren’t. All around him, men fought and ran and crumpled to lie as limply as the trampled tents.

Slipping and stumbling in the mud, Tarvic felt a surge of satisfaction as his sword met flesh and an enemy yelled in pain. And then the man wheeled his horse and charged back toward him, and Tarvic turned to flee.

He tripped on something soft that groaned. Pain shot through Tarvic’s wrist as he caught his fall, and only a quick roll saved him from being trampled as the man’s horse cantered over him.

Its rider wheeled again, and Tarvic rose to his knees, barely raising his shield in time to protect his face. The force of the blow threw him backward, jarring his already sore wrist.

Another horse leaped over him, and Tarvic cried out in pain as a hoof struck him on the shoulder. He stumbled to his feet, ducking low to present as small a target as possible, and ran through the melee.

He saw fewer people on foot now, more obstacles in the mud. Was it cowardly to flee from a battle you couldn’t win? Nothing in Tarvic’s eight months in the military had prepared him for this. Not counting occasional minor border skirmishes, the kingdom of Alasia hadn’t seen an actual war in six generations. Besides routine patrols, city peacekeeping, and the frequent drills and training, the military’s primary duties involved escorting merchant wagons through robber-frequented stretches of rural highway and keeping an eye on the sections of coastline where seafaring raiders were known to attack. Tarvic had never fought in a battle that involved more than a handful of opponents at a time, and none of those opponents had been anywhere near this organized — or this deadly.

If we escape, we can regroup somewhere safer and — A hard blow to the back knocked him to the ground again as another horse pounded over him. Giving up all pretense of courage, Tarvic scrambled to his feet once more and fled for the edge of the clearing and the relative safety of the trees beyond. I can’t do anything here. They’re going to slaughter us all!

He was practically there when another rider appeared in front of him, leaning low with sword outstretched. Tarvic almost impaled himself on the blade, raising his shield just in time. He fought back frantically as the man slashed, swinging his weapon again and again. I need my horse! Military training had included nothing about how to fight a mounted enemy from the ground. But Lightning was tethered in the row of makeshift stalls on the far side of the camp, probably prancing restlessly under his blanket and wondering why his rider didn’t come to spur him into battle.

Tarvic didn’t even see the blow that almost killed him. His ears barely registered the thudding of more galloping hooves from behind, nearly drowned out by the rain and the sounds of battle. But the world exploded in light and pain as something struck the back of his head harder than anything had ever hit him before.

He lurched forward, feeling his sword drop from limp fingers. Managing two steps before his legs buckled, he was just conscious enough to recognize the urgent need to crawl. Don’t stop. Don’t stop. Don’t stop. Or they’ll kill you out here. That was the only thought left in his mind as he pulled himself toward the concealing shadows behind the line of tree trunks. And then even that faded, giving way to darkness.

Want to know what happens to Tarvic? Click here to purchase the book and find out!

About the Author:

Annie Douglass Lima spent most of her childhood in Kenya and later graduated from Biola University in Southern California. She and her husband Floyd currently live in Taiwan, where she teaches fifth grade at Morrison Academy. She has been writing poetry, short stories, and novels since her childhood, and to date has published seventeen books (fantasy, YA action and adventure novels, a puppet script, anthologies of her students’ poetry, and a Bible verse coloring and activity book). Besides writing, her hobbies include reading (especially fantasy and science fiction), scrapbooking, and international travel.

Email: [email protected]

Blog: http://anniedouglasslima.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnieDouglassLimaAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/princeofalasia

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGoodreads

Google+: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnGooglePlus

Amazon Author Page: http://bit.ly/AnnieDouglassLimaOnAmazon

LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/ADLimaOnLinkedIn

SERIES: The Valarsard Chronicles

BOOK ONE: The Ravening Heart of the Wolf

BOOK TWO: The Wolf in Winter

AUTHOR: Erin Eldridge

AUTHOR BIO: I live in Christchurch, New Zealand. The city is still rebuilding after the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. I have been a teacher for most of my life, most recently, a teacher of deaf students. Currently, I do part time support work with International students at a boys’ college. I’ve taught overseas as well, in Africa and in Brunei. I have two children, one of who, my daughter, lives in the UK and the other, my son, lives around the corner! I started writing two years ago and have completed four books: a contemporary romance, two war stories and a medieval fantasy. I have many more ideas for stories yet to come.

BOOK ONE SYNOPSIS: A brutal medieval warlord believes his lost true love has returned to him from the grave. A young girl is uprooted from the sheltered life that is all she has known and must learn to survive in a violent and pitiless world where man is wolf to man. A valiant young warrior loses his heart to her, but the unforeseen tears them apart. Fate conspires to throw all three into each other’s path with shattering results. A colorful cast of minor characters helps to create a stunning, stained-glass-montage of an adventure that will enthrall readers young, old, and in-between.

BOOK TWO SYNOPSIS: Following the dramatic events that closed Book One, the Valarsards settle back into harmonious co-existence. But tranquility is short-lived, enemies are close at hand, and both the wolf and the eagle are called upon as never before to protect loved ones and avert further tragedy.

AUTHOR SITE LINKS: http://www.immortallongings.net/, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100016952262180

AMAZON US

BOOK ONE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079J4Y8HY

BOOK TWO: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079VVNJYR

AMAZON UK

BOOK ONE: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B079J4Y8HY

BOOK TWO: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B079VVNJYR

AMAZON CA

BOOK ONE: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B079J4Y8HY

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BOOK TWO: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B079VVNJYR

BeachBoundBooks is pleased to be coordinating a Blog Tour for Ben Woodard’s newest young adult mystery, The Staircase of Fire. The tour will run May 23 – June 13, 2018.

About the Book

Title: The Staircase of Fire (A Shakertown Adventure, Book 3)
Author: Ben Woodard
Genre: Young Adult Mystery
Number of Pages: 276
Publisher: Miller-Martin Press
Publication Date: May 25, 2018
Summary: A quiet town in Kentucky explodes from a racial incident and fourteen-year-old Tom Wallace is in the thick of it. His past haunts him and now he’s witness to a horrific event leaving him devastated and afraid. He must escape his town and its memories. But leaving has consequences, too. He will have to betray his friends and his new love.

Nothing stops his nightmares. Not high risk activities or running away. But when his past returns, Tom is forced to confront his greatest fear and finally realizes he cannot escape himself. Now he has to take a stand that could change his life—or end it.

“…a highly recommended pick for teens looking for something different…”

D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

iTunes ~ Kobo ~ Barnes & Noble

Other books in the series…

A Stairway to Danger (A Shakertown Adventure, Book 1)

An eyeless body. A menacing stranger. And a tangled mystery.
It’s the summer of 1923 and two cousins hunting for hidden gold stumble on a decayed body. Fourteen-year-old Tom Wallace is convinced the death was murder and drags his older cousin into a harrowing struggle against a shadowy group. Not even attempts on their lives can stop the boys from relentlessly pursuing the mystery. But when their curiosity leads them to investigate a derelict barge, what they find is bigger and more dangerous than anything they could have imagined.

A STAIRWAY TO DANGER is a fun-filled thriller with humor and adventure in a Twain-like setting.

Winner! Orangeberry Hall of Fame Best Young Adult novel for 2013

Amazon ~Barnes & Noble

Steps Into Darkness (A Shakertown Adventure, Book 2)

Explosions, sabotage, deadly warnings, and a dangerous red-haired man. Imagine The Hardy Boys meet Tom Sawyer. Add a layer of teen angst and excitement plus a mysterious group stirring up racial tensions.

That’s STEPS INTO DARKNESS, the second book in the Shakertown Adventure Series by Ben Woodard.

Fourteen-year-old Tom Wallace again makes plans to escape the small town in the 1923 Kentucky countryside—the town that won’t let him forget his past, when a horrific event changes his mind. He teams with his cousin, Will, and young FBI agent Rick Sweeney to solve a perplexing mystery. Attempts on the boys’ lives and a bewildering list of suspects keep them on edge and confused until they discover the real villain—and then wish they hadn’t.

STEPS INTO DARKNESS is a fun, page-turning thriller with a hint of romance that delivers adventure and mystery while exploring the fears of a teen living with a frightful memory.

Amazon ~ Kobo ~ Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Ben is a (mostly) retired amateur adventurer who has traveled across Tibet, climbed to 18,000 feet on Mt. Everest, and solo backpacked wilderness areas. Now his adventures come in the form of imagining stories, writing and telling them to kids and teens. He works with teachers, schools and literacy organizations spreading the word that books are vital—and fun.

Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads ~ Google+

Author’s Website ~ Publisher’s Website ~ Netgalley

Book Blast Giveaway

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner’s choice
Giveaway ends: June 13, 11:59 pm, 2018
Open to: Internationally
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Ben Woodard and is hosted and managed by Stacie from BeachBoundBooks. If you have any additional questions feel free to send an email to [email protected].

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Have you ever been shunned for your faith? Amira has, in the book Aleigha Israel recently released. And that isn’t the only problem she will face in life. Read on to find out more about the book and be sure to check out the giveaway!

About the Book

She knew the decision would change her life. But she didn’t know she’d have to fight to survive.

When Amira put her faith in Christ, she knew life wouldn’t be easy. But hiding her conversion from her Muslim family soon becomes the least of her worries.

Forced to leave the only home she’s ever known, she travels to the island of Gabeburough, trying her best to make a fresh start.

Two escaped convicts and a treasure map. A leafy paradise that becomes her home. Amira begins to wonder, where is her Redeemer when she needs Him the most?

Caleb Haddington is prince of Carpathia. Life should be perfect, but he can’t get a certain dark-haired girl out of his mind. Amira was his best friend when he lived in France, but her letters to him have suddenly stopped. Her last letter is filled with terror that her faith will soon be discovered.

Only a single hope keeps him alive; when the time is right, he’s going after her. He’ll bring her back and prove to the kingdom that he’s a man.

But the journey proves to be more perilous than he’d ever imagined.

Ridicule, comfortless days, and the threat of a hurricane are just the start of his problems.
Lying becomes easy for Caleb until his own life crumbles before him. Brought to his knees under the pressure of his actions, he comes to realize the sweetness of his Savior.

Forgiveness, grace, and mercy are granted fully to those who ask.

Caleb and Amira soon discover that they don’t just serve a gracious Savior, but a wonderful, magnificent, Marvelous Redeemer.

About the Author

ALEIGHA C. ISRAEL writer of inspirational fiction and poetry, is an author of multiple books and enjoys sharing God’s love through the powerful art of storytelling.

Her trilogy “A Light for Christ” is distributed by Grace and Truth Books and has been enjoyed by ages nine to ninety-three!

Aleigha is a Student Mentor over at the Young Writers Workshop and she’ll be quick to tell you how amazing that community is.

She resides in GA with the world’s best parents, and five of the greatest siblings. When she’s not writing (or reading!) she can usually be seen working around the house, playing games with her siblings, or traveling with her family’s band, “Fret Not.”

She doesn’t have to search very hard for inspiration. Living in the Israel household, it’s guaranteed there’s an adventure waiting around every corner!

Giveaway

Aleigha is generously offering a basket of gifts including old-fashioned candies, 4 bookmarks, a pen, a paperback copy of the book, and a little bottle on a keychain. You can enter at this link: https://kingsumo.com/g/ko9bwa/a-marvelous-redeemer-giveaway.

Excerpts

#1

Amira’s voice broke as she began the childish saying she and Alayla had said since they were children; “A friend to cherish, special secrets we’ll whisper.” She waited for Alayla to finish the sentence, but the words never came.

With a heart-wrenching sob, Amira turned and walked briskly towards the direction of the village.

She didn’t know where she was going, but she was no longer safe here.

At this moment, she was completely uncertain of what the future held.

But one thing she knew for certain; her life would never be the same again.

#2

“We all mess up, and we all have troubles. None of us deserve God’s grace, but He gives it to us anyway. Because of that, I’m convinced of one thing.”

Caleb’s eyes searched the sea of faces until they landed on Amira. He sent her a smile, his eyes growing bright. “We, as humans serve the most amazing Savior. And He’s not just our Redeemer. He’s a miraculous, gracious, perfect, and marvelous Redeemer.”

Tour Schedule

May 21

Bookish Orchestrations – Intro post

Spoonful of Surprises – Book Review

May 22

Letters from Annie Douglass Lima – Book Spotlight

Jannette Fuller – Book Spotlight

May 23

Rebekah Lyn Books – Book Spotlight

Frances Hoelsema – Book Spotlight

Writings From A God Girl – Author Interview

May 24

Laurel’s Leaves – Author Interview

May 25

Rachel Rossano’s Words – Book Spotlight

May 26

Bookish Orchestrations – Giveaway winner

BeachBoundBooks is pleased to be coordinating a Blog Tour for the children’s novel written by Susan Count, Selah’s Painted Dream. The tour will run from May 7 – May 29, 2018.

About the Book

Title: Selah’s Painted Dream (Dream Horse Adventures, Book 3) | Author: Susan Count | Publisher: Hastings Creation Group | Publication Date: May 7, 2018 | Genre: Children’s Novel | Number of Pages: 174
Description: Thirteen-year-old Selah’s life is about as perfect as it gets. She has horsy friends at school, and on weekends, she rides her black mare on Grandpa’s farm. Training the horse to do upper-level liberty work is what makes her heart beat.

But one word can ruin a perfect life—moving.

A move would separate her from her horse, so she plots to get her name on the farm mailbox instead. She’s sure she could persuade Grandpa—except he’s overly distracted by a sheep-loving neighbor.

Determined not to let Grandpa’s new sweetheart take her place in his heart, Selah puts her hope in a painted dream horse from Grandpa’s past. When she snugs up the girth and buckles on her spurs, Selah rides to win.

Amazon

Other books in the series…

A story of love and determination in the face of adversity that will steal your heart.

Twelve-year-old Mary longs to have a horse of her own, but she’s limited to reading horse books. A talented artist, she spends her days on a blanket in the grass sketching the horses at the farm next door. She falls in love with one of the foals and is outraged to learn the filly is considered worthless as it was born lame.

Mary befriends and enlists the help of twelve-year-old Laura, whose family owns the horse farm. Against the better judgment of the farm manager, a brief reprieve is negotiated for the foal’s life. The girls conspire to raise money to save her, but time is running out. Sadly, it appears the expensive surgery the foal needs has little chance to correct the problem anyway. Mary isn’t about to let her own disability hold her back. She sacrifices what she holds dear – the trust of her papa, to gain her heart’s desire. But she could lose everything in her struggle to save the foal.

TxAuthors Best Book Award Winner for 2017 – Juvenile – Coming of Age
Feathered Quill – 2017 GOLD Award – Children’s Fiction – Animals
Purple Dragonfly – 2017 First Place – Disability Awarenes

Amazon

A delightful read. Plenty of twists and turns which makes the book a great little adventure. Selah embodies perseverance, hope, determination, compassion, and spunk.

Twelve-Year-Old SELAH’S quest to be equestrian superstar is impossible without a horse. Then she spots buzzards circling in the grasslands behind Grandpa’s farm. They’re stalking a horse trapped in wire and Selah is its only hope. But the mare she rescues might be a bigger challenge to her dream than not having a horse at all. When an old friend of Grandpa’s and a world renowned horse trainer offers to work with the wild and defiant mare, Selah jumps at the opportunity. She trains with a fierce determination to equal the equestrian talent of the deceased grandmother who instilled the love of horses in her. But when the horse causes mayhem at the trainer’s facility, he sends them home. Selah must gather her courage and face up to the trainer or watch her dreams gallop away.

American Horse Publications – FIRST PLACE – Equine Fiction….. Feathered Quill – GOLD Award…..Readers Favorites – GOLD Award…..

Amazon

About the Author

As a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, American Christian Fiction Writers, and Texas Association of Authors, I take studying the craft of writing seriously. Revision is my super-power.

Instilled with the need to create, I love building projects and writing adventure stories. I’m a life-long equestrian and owned by a Rocky Mountain Horse. I adore grandchildren, horses, bunnies, mochas, and forest trails.

I’ve published three books in an equestrian series. I write at an antique secretary desk that occupies a glass room with a forest view. Fittingly, it once belonged to the same wise grandmother who introduced me to the love of reading via Walter Farley’s horse books. That desk has secret compartments which hold memories, mysteries, and story ideas.

Blog Tour Giveaway

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner’s choice
Giveaway ends: May 29, 11:59 pm, 2018
Open to: Internationally
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Susan Count and is hosted and managed by Stacie from BeachBoundBooks. If you have any additional questions feel free to send an email to [email protected].

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author’s name:

Olivia Lynn Jarmusch

Title of book and/or series:

The Tales of Tarsurella #1: The Coronation, The Tales of Tarsurella #2: The Rebellion

Brief summary of the story:

Something is brewing. Like the far-off rumble of a train in the distance, a rebellion is stirring. A cry for change arises in the midst of a traditional monarchy, where King Addison has inherited the throne. Who are the underground troublemakers? What is stirring their defiant banner and demand for change? Find out in The Rebellion! (The Tales of Tarsurella #2)

Vanessa Bennett lands her dream job working at the Palace in Tarsurella. She struggles to balance everything on her plate: life in a new country, stressful deadlines, crabby co-workers, college classes at the local University, and blossoming feelings of romantic adoration toward her boss–King Addison. Keeping up with her To-Do list, while trying to earn respect in Addison’s male-dominated administration, presents its challenges. Nevertheless, she can’t help but fight a reoccurring thought and the excitement rising with it: is Addison interested in her?

Addison is adjusting to his new role as King. Rumors of a rebellious uprising among the youth in Tarsurella intensifies, as acts of violence and protest break out across the city. Addison is determined to uncover the hidden instigator who fearlessly blogs democracy-driven ideals with a secretive pen name. Will Addison discover and expose the fiery rebellion leader? Or will his efforts fail to stop the rebellious thoughts spreading like wildfire, causing a heartbreaking rift in his divided nation?

Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:

The tiny nation of Tarsurella is located in modern day Europe, between France and England.

If we were to visit Tarsurella as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?

The crowning jewel of Tarsurella is most certainly the Palace of Tarsurella. Tourists flock from all over the world to visit the ancient Palace, which is listed as one of the Top 25 Must See Palaces in Europe. The capital city is totally adorable as well, and has tailored their downtown area to appease to tourists. Tourism is what keeps this tiny little nation afloat, so a vast majority of jobs within Tarsurella are connected to the tourist industry. Main Street offers classic carriage rides and is speckled with gift shops and restaurants on every corner. The historic downtown area strives to keep some of the charm of their early years, so you can find employees dressed in vintage paper boy outfits and women in fanciful hoop skirts, entertaining the crowds. Ice-cream and fudge are a huge tourist fave! Eating at The Royal Restaurant is a must, as well as strolling through the Queen’s Gardens. Especially in the springtime, when everything is in bloom, and there’s a lively little flower festival! Tarsurella has a lot to offer to Tourists, so I hope you’ll come take a trip!

What dangers should we avoid in Tarsurella?

Tarsurella has always been a safe, friendly, welcoming country. But political unrest is stirring, and has resulted in recent riots and protests in the streets. It’s a tough time for the nation. I’d hate to say, “Don’t come to Tarusrella, because you never know what might happen on the streets”, but honestly, things have been very rocky. So please still come visit, but just stay aware of your surroundings, and pray for the peace of this country!

Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Tarsurella?

Sea food is pretty big in Tarsurella, as it is in many parts of the Europe, but Clark Myers, the head cook at the Royal Restaurant, is famous for his seafood dishes. Many travel to this country just so they can get a taste of Clark’s food! One of his most popular dishes is a Sea Food Melody, with oyster, crab, sushi and clam sea-weed wraps, dipped in a sweet tangerine sauce. Foodies pretty much freak out after their first bite. Tarsurella is also known for their fried baby octopus.

Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Tarsurella.

One of Tarsurella’s biggest sports and favorite pastimes is horse racing. The Bellington Derby is one of the largest races in Tarsurella, where families gather to watch their favorite thoroughbreds thunder down the track and compete for a large monetary sum. Horse racing, often referred to as “The Sport of Kings”, has a very rich history in Tarsurella.

What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly in Tarsurella?

Tarsurella celebrates most all of the same holidays we do here in the States. Founders Day – often jokingly referred to as Orange Throwing Day, is a traditional celebration of Tarsurella history. The holiday is very similar to the Fourth of July, with extravagant picnics, fireworks, and sparklers. The Orange Throwing competition is a comical tradition that some have abandoned, but many locals still get a kick out of it.

What is the political or government structure in Tarsurella? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?

Tarsurella is a traditional monarchy. Prince Addison has recently inherited the throne from his father, and he now reigns as King. Many within Tarsurella believe the King shouldn’t have absolute power, and the y desire to see a constitutional monarchy established, which means all political decisions would be handled by a new government, and parliament. Though parliament is actively involved with voting on decisions made within the country, many citizens would still like to see Tarsurella shift into a more traditional, democratic form of government.

In my personal opinion, I think Addison is doing a fantastic job running the country, but I can see how his traditional Christian values might feel like too much like a controlling theocracy for this progressive generation. I guess the best way to tell how Addison is truly doing with his role, is to come visit Tarsruella and find out!

Author Autobiography:

I’m a twenty-something author, singer, and songwriter. I enjoy crafting YA fiction that is pure, lovely, inspirational, and of course, entertaining! When I’m not writing, you can usually find me playing guitar, blogging, drinking peppermint tea, connecting with new friends, planning my next trip to Disney, or pinning images of Europe and Golden Retriever Puppies.

Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?

You can come to www.livylynnblog.com or find all my titles on Amazon, both in paperback and on Amazon Kindle.

I recommend starting with The Coronation https://www.amazon.com/Coronation-Tales-Tarsurella-1/dp/1547070854/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525457079&sr=8-1&keywords=the+coronation+olivia+jarmusch then you’ll be ready for The Rebellion on May 8^th!

Where can readers connect with you online?

I’m pretty much everywhere, haha!

Blog – www.livylynnblog.com

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/livylynnlibrary/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/livylynnglittergirl/

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/user/LivyJarmusch

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Twitter – https://twitter.com/livylynnmusic

I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Tarsurella. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!

Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.

Please join us again next Monday for a trip to another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!

-Annie Douglass Lima

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for

Her Family’s Defender

By Kim Findlay

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch – Author Interview

What do you hope readers take with them after they read it?

People can change. Troy grows into a better man, and we see that reflected through Bridget’s responses to him through the course of the story.

Also, what you see on the surface isn’t always the truth. Michelle judges Troy based on what she sees – a hockey player without any problems, which is a stark contrast to her own life. She discovers there’s more to his story. Michelle is dealing with her own problems, beyond the financial pressures that are apparent on the surface. And those rise up unexpectedly.

Mostly, I hope readers enjoy these characters, and the journey they take to find their HEA.

It’s All About the Romance – Troy’s Tips on Parenting

Kids will lie about their bedtime.

Beer is not an appropriate snack…

Locks, Hooks and Books – Review

“This book is so sweet, delightful, heartwarming and, at times, emotional. I thought it was pretty good. Michelle and Troy were great, relatable characters, with perfect chemistry.”

Hearts & Scribbles – Excerpt

If only it could have been Mitch, still with them in every way. Coming in hot and sweaty from a run and pulling her into his embrace while she squealed, and he pretended not to understand what she was squealing about…

Troy raised his eyebrows. “Hello?”

Michelle forced herself to glance up, and she saw amusement in his eyes. He thought she was tongue-tied from staring at his naked chest. As if. Yes, she was staring at him, but she could handle an attractive body. It was remembering the past that would bring her down.

The Power of Words – Review

“Her Family’s Defender by Kim Findlay is different from typical books that I read, in that it brought me into the world of Canadian ice hockey, and I thoroughly enjoyed it…

Kim Findlay has crafted an entertaining story that romance fans will enjoy, even those not particularly interested in sports (like me). I look forward to much more from this author.”

I Am A Reader – Troy

He’s gone from winning the Stanley Cup, hockey’s highest prize, to battling cancer, and now he’s figuring out who he is after these experiences. He’s 6’2″, in excellent physical shape, and he’d agree that he’s good-looking. But his life is changing…

Rockin’ Book Reviews – Review

“This is a well-written book. There are things that happen to us in our lives that are hard to deal with and difficult to put behind us.

This book is a wonderful love story with people who are dealing with many of the hardships we all have to deal with. “

E-Romance News – Excerpt

What did he want from Michelle anyway? He remembered all his own arguments against dating mothers. They had responsibilities, and that wasn’t something he wanted to take on. And just as important, they had kids, and kids shouldn’t be hurt.

Right now, though, the idea of responsibility wasn’t scaring him. It wasn’t a vague thing anymore; these were two kids he was attached to. Being responsible for them sounded okay. Better than okay. Being part of their family tonight, and the taco night…he’d truly enjoyed that.

And he’d move heaven and earth to make sure those two weren’t hurt.

Hardcover Feedback – Review

“I loved this book! From when Michelle and Troy first meet until the end this was such an enjoyable and fun read…

I’d recommend Her Family’s Defender to fans of contemporary romance, it was just wonderful.”

Inside The Mind of an Avid Reader – Review

“Her Family’s Defender is the Second book in the A Hockey Romance series by Kim Findlay. . . . This is a great family friendly romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Reading Is My SuperPower – Review

“If you are craving a sports romance that will make you smile and swoon, with characters you’ll quickly come to care about, then Her Family’s Defender is a great choice for you! The Canadian setting was a nice change of pace and, even though I know basically nothing about hockey, I really enjoyed that dimension to the story as well. Additionally, I loved the role that the characters from book 1 played in this novel despite the fact that I have yet to read their particular story. A cute story with layered characters and a sweet message!”

underneath the covers – Michelle

Michelle is focused on her family. She grew up in a military home, moving around, and enlisted herself, where she met and married another recruit. He came back from deployment suffering from PTSD, and eventually committed suicide…

Britt Reads Fiction – Review

“Her Family’s Defender was an nice story. I really liked Troy, who began the story as a quintessential bachelor, but by the end was intricately entwined in the Robinson family…

I liked Michelle. . . . I enjoyed their family dynamic, and especially enjoyed the way Troy fit right in.

…I enjoyed this title and look forward to reading more from this author.”

Stacking My Book Shelves! – Excerpt

“I don’t need a babysitter,” Angie spat out, giving her mom the side eye. “But Mom’s afraid to leave us completely alone at night.” For twelve the kid could really give attitude.

“If you don’t want a babysitter, what are you doing here?” Troy asked.

Angie sighed, burdened by these slow-witted adults. “Mom doesn’t trust us. She got someone to come for the night, just as if we were babies, but that person canceled. I can take care of my brother. I just need a responsible adult I can call if anything happens,” Angie retorted.

“Am I responsible enough?” Troy asked with a grin.

Remembrancy – Review

“As a hockey fan who is enjoying cheering for her team in the playoffs, what more could I ask for than a hockey romance? How about one with miscommunication and dislike between the guy and gal? Or with a couple of kids in the mix?”

Colorimetry – Occasions when coffee is required

When the handsome hockey player across the hall knocks at your door early on a Saturday morning to offer hockey tickets…

Nicole’s Book Musings – Review

“I really enjoyed this one. . . . This book had all the feels, but also a good amount of humor. I just gobbled this book up.”

Heidi Reads… – Excerpt

If he was honest, the day he’d been told the cancer was gone had been incredible, in a completely different way.

But that victory had been humbling and private, and something he hoped never to repeat again. The Cup he intended to win again if he could.

He wasn’t going to tell all that to a twelve-year-old, though, so he simply said that not much could top hoisting the Cup over your head.

Thoughts of a Blonde – Review

“Emotion filled and reality laced! From the first page, we are captivated by the emotional journey these two characters are embarking on as they set out to pick up the pieces of their ravaged lives and find a way to carry on. . . . Overall, a solid read.”

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven’t already…

Her Family’s Defender

(A Hockey Romance #2)
by Kim Findlay
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
May 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He has home advantage…

But she’s got a strong defensive play.

Hockey star Troy Green never gives up. Not on the ice. Not when he battled cancer last year. And not when it comes to his new neighbor, Michelle Robinson. Troy only wants to help the struggling single mom and her sweet kids, but soon he’s falling for her. Is Troy finally ready to trade in his bachelor life and become a family man?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin│Kobo

Other Books in the Series

Crossing the Line

(A Hockey Romance #1)
by Kim Findlay
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
March 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Icebreaker or endgame?

Can two devoted athletes make room in their lives for love?

Mike Reimer knows from experience that hockey and relationships don’t mix. And hot-tempered swim coach Bridget O’Reilly couldn’t be more wrong for the widowed pro goalie, aka the Iceman. As the playoffs approach, Mike’s growing feelings for her could melt the hardest heart. But what if being with Bridget means letting down his team…and, worst of all, himself?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin│Kobo

About the Author

Kim Findlay lives in Toronto, Canada, with her very handsome husband, two strapping sons, and possibly the world’s cutest spaniel. When she can get time away from her accounting business, Kim can be found traveling, sailing, reading, or writing, depending on the season, time of day, and her energy level. You can find her at kimfindlay.ca, @missheyer74, or on Facebook.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter

Tour Giveaway

– 1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card and an ebook of Crossing the Line

– Open internationally
– Ends May 9th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

BeachBoundBooks is pleased to be coordinating a Blog Tour for the children’s picture book written by Patty Costello and illustrated by Diane Cojocaru, Catalina and the King’s Wall. The tour will run from May 3 – May 31, 2018.

About the Book

Title: Catalina and the King’s Wall

Author: Patricia Costello

Illustrated by: Diane Cojocaru

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Number of Pages: 32

Publisher: Eifrig Publishing

Publication Date: May 5, 2018

Summary: One day Catalina overhears the king planning to build a wall and fears her family will never be able to visit. Catalina tricks the king into building walls that droop, drip, swirl, and swoosh away. But now the king demands a wall that will outlast even a Twinkie. Luckily, Catalina has the perfect ingredients to bake up a family reunion!

Available on Amazon & Eifrig Publishing

Take a peek inside the book…

About the Author

Patty Costello lives in Boise, Idaho with her husband, a crazy awesome toddler, a dog named Pippa, and a dog named Spencer. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of St Thomas and a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Minnesota. She currently works in higher education. Catalina and the King’s Wall is her first book. At all hours of the day (and night) she can be found standing at her desk, helping her university run smoothly and working on her next story.

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Blog Tour Giveaway

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner’s choice
Giveaway ends: May 31, 11:59 pm, 2018
Open to: Internationally
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Patty Costello and is hosted and managed by Stacie from BeachBoundBooks. If you have any additional questions feel free to send an email to [email protected].

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