'The Blood That Cries in the Ground' by Gregory Bellarmine

The Blood That Cries in the Ground

by Gregory Bellarmine

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

BLURB:

Italy. A tough master of novices, Father Dante encounters the bold young priest Antonio who challenges his identity and accuses him of being the Saint Nicholas. But despite the Father faking his death, a determined Antonio discovers a rather alive Dante arrayed in kilt and armor.

In return for Antonio’s silence—and to protect the town from attracting all manner of darkness—Dante agrees to tell his life story. Without explanation, Dante orders Antonio to meet him at night in the abandoned Cathedral, the site of a former battle that the Church has kept secret for a generation.

Until today.

The Criskindl. Ice Steeds. The Unborn. Saint.

From the Dark Ages’ when Poet-Sorcerers ruled kings, to the Holy Land when a new civilization was rising, to Revolutionary France where love is lost and gained, Father Dante pursues the one responsible for both his master and his mother’s deaths: Black Peter, his brother.

Read an excerpt:

From effulgent smoke came forth a dark man of such height that his head grazed the broken frame. Straight jet hair fell to his narrow waist, and from each hip hung a curved, empty scabbard. The flaming scimitars crackled in his gauntleted fists.

Liquid fire burned in eyes that rejected fear. Garbed in shades of black, from hose and metal gloves to chest armor, the intruder moved forward like a shadow stealing across a barren heath. He hovered a dangerous pace from the midwife. And when he spoke, though his breath had the scent of lilacs his voice had the timbre of fine-tuned rage:

"I thank you graceful Lady for your months of natal torture, and I do hope that in time you forgive what will surely cause you terrible grief." His fiery stare fell on the child cradled in the midwife's arms. "I can't tell you how happy I am to see you again. The husk is different." He sniffed the air. "But the vapors, they're yours."

The midwife shook her head, rose from her stool, and fished inside her skirt pockets. Swiftly the intruder brought down one of his scimitars to sever the umbilical cord.

“The Blood That Cries in the Ground will grab the reader by the throat with a death grip from which it is impossible to break free.” -Reviewed by Bil Howard for Readers' Favorite

Link to the full review: http://readersfavorite.com/book-review/13394

Available on Amazon

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Gregory Bellarmine is the author of the bestselling Monthly Roman Breviary. He lives a happy though sometimes sleepless life in the UK with his wife, two children and rather cheeky Parson Russell Terrier.

Email: frgregory@latinmass.org.uk

Gregory’s blog is http://www.fatherdante.com

@VRevGB

Gregory will be awarding a $10 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour. Follow the tour for more chances to win!

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Review of 'Stepping Up to Love' by Katie O'Boyle

Stepping Up to Love

by Katie O’Boyle

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

BLURB:

When her boss Joel Cushman catches her using the spa shower at The Manse, junior accountant and graduating college senior Manda Doughty comes clean about the alcoholic drinking that has led her into a disastrous relationship with a predatory professor. Joel, who is also a trustee of the college, is faced with more problems than a beautiful, naked woman in his shower. While he’d rather make love all night with funny, brainy Manda, Joel knows his desire for her has no future if Manda cannot stay sober, grow up, and face her problems. While Manda immerses herself in AA, Joel uncovers harassment and embezzlement that threaten the existence of the college his ancestors founded. Can he fix the problems at the college without exposing Manda to public humiliation? Can Manda clean up her mess and trust the love she feels for Joel? The odds may not be in their favor, but miracles happen for those who are willing to change their lives and open their hearts.

Read an excerpt:

“I got the plea from Remy to go easy on you, but I’m not inclined to do that.” He perched on the corner of his desk and glared down at her. “What were you thinking, living with this lothario professor? Aren’t you supposed to be a student? A top-of-your-class business major, the kind we’re proud to employ at an upscale inn and spa? Do you get that’s not consistent with shacking up with some divorced sot that doesn’t know how to keep it in his pants?” He bet that was language she never expected to hear from Joel Cushman. 

“I so don’t deserve that!” Manda glared at him. 

He glared right back. He wanted to wring her neck, her beautiful bruised neck.

“And quit yelling at me. I’ve had enough explosions.” She choked on the last word. She pressed the back of her hand to her nose to stop it running.

Joel crossed the room, grabbed a box of tissues, and tossed it at her. “Use these.” 

“Thank you.” She pulled two out of the box and dried her eyes and nose.

"Nice clothes. You need a scarf. Ask Remy for one. You’ve got three minutes to save your job.”

**My thoughts**

I was drawn to this book simply from the the blurb. I grew up in the world of AA, because my father sponsored dozens of young men throughout my childhood. It was like having a ton of older brothers. I admire the courage of people who work hard at overcoming their addictions and usually enjoy reading stories about them. A bonus when I started reading was the setting. It takes place along the gorgeous Finger Lakes in Upstate New York. In the acknowledgments in the beginning of the book, author Katie O'Boyle thanks people from Writers and Books in Rochester, which is two minutes from my house. I also noticed that the publishing house is in Macedon, which is one of our suburbs. That local connection made me appreciate it even more and helped me to envision where characters were. If you're going to find yourself again and fall in love, spending time along the lakes is a great place to do it.

Manda has problems. She has been abused by one of her trusted professors, who is also her employer, and who is determined to hurt or kill her. Her drinking problem has escalated to the point where she admits that she is an alcoholic. She has managed to fly under the radar at school, somehow still getting her work done on time. Joel manages to find out about her problems, recognizing a bit of himself in her, and takes her under his wing. He doesn't take over her life by enabling her. Instead, he gives her little boosts of assistance to get her back on track to being the strong and independent woman that she really is. 

It doesn't hurt that he is also attracted to her. In AA, they recommend waiting at least one year before getting romantically involved with someone. You have to take care of YOU, first. Chances are you were in a detrimental relationship before you joined, or perhaps are currently in one. You have to heal yourself before you can open yourself up to a new, healthy relationship. Joel knows this and tries very hard to curb his attraction and actions. Manda seems to love having a positive male presence in her life and being appreciated for who she is. They are naturally drawn together, actually helping each other to become better people along their journey.

It isn't a perfect romance by any means. Both of them are struggling with their own demons. Manda is under a threat. But they show that love can help to conquer all. It's an inspirational story that debuts what could be a warm and fuzzy series taking place practically in my own backyard. I look forward to more installments and will probably read at least one lakeside!

Available on Amazon

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Born in the upstate-New York village known as the Birthplace of Women’s Rights, Katie O’Boyle passionately loves the Finger Lakes in every season. She cherishes the lakeside porch as a place for intimate sharing, laughter and inspiration.

Some years ago, Katie was a stellar student and closet substance abuser at a picture-perfect small college. She credits loving friends, 12-step spirituality, and plenty of hard work for her transformation into her grown-up self: tech-savvy college professor and passionate author of warm-hearted romance.

While Katie is hard at work on book three of the Lakeside Porches romance books (Finding the Way Back To Love), she invites you to imagine yourself reading on the lakeside porch of an inn on one of the beautiful Finger Lakes. Fall in love with the characters of Lakeside Porches:

Book One: Stepping Up To Love (Joel and Manda’s story, available from Amazon)

Book Two: Coming Home to Love (Justin and Gianessa’s story, coming in June 2014 from Soul Mate Publishing)

Links for Katie O’Boyle:

Twitter: @TompkinsFalls
Facebook: /Katie.OBoyle.Author
Website: http://drkatecollier.wordpress.com/

Katie will be awarding an eCopy of Stepping Up To Love to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour. Follow the tour for more chances to win!

'Patriot Priest' by Patricia Daly-Lipe

Patriot Priest tells one man's personal experience over several epochs and areas of history. It is also, in part the story of one unique individual, author Patricia Daly-Lipe's great uncle, Msgr. William A Hemmick. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, and raised in Europe, he became fluent in five languages. When the First World War broke out, he felt committed to help the troops. After the war, he was proclaimed the Patriot Priest of Picardy by the Army and Navy. After years spent in Paris, William Hemmick was asked by the Vatican to come to Rome. Ultimately he became the only American Canon of St. Peter's representing the Knights of Malta to the Holy See.

It was he who performed the nuptials of American film star Tyrone Power and Linda Christian. He also converted the future Queen Astrid of Belgium.

Excerpt:

Only a few months after entering the American College, William became quite ill. Physicians were called. After checking the boy carefully, they proceeded to give him sad news. William had contracted tuberculosis of the most virulent sort and could not expect to live more than a couple of months. Of course, he wanted to leave for home immediately. 

The Rector, Dr. Kennedy, arranged, however, that he should have an audience with the Holy Father (Pope Pius X) before he left. Dr. Kennedy himself took young William to the Vatican and, having first told the Pope in private of the circumstances of the case, the student was ushered into the Pope's chambers. 

The Pope smiled at him tenderly as the young man knelt to kiss the papal ring. Then he lifted his chin, looked him straight in the eye and, very reassuringly, advised the young man, "Don't worry at all now." 

William looked up at the Pope's smiling face in disbelief. 

"You are going to be all right. Go home and get rested and well." 

Then the Pope placed his hand on William's head and said, "One day you will be back here." 

The ailing young seminarian would not have dared to hope at that moment the Holy Father was speaking the truth. However, he was. 

Soon after he returned to America, William's health improved. Although his convalescence was long, he was finally able to resume his priestly studies at Mt. St. Mary's College in Emmitsburg, Maryland, followed by six years at Catholic University in Washington, DC.

Buy the book at Amazon. 

About the Author:

Dr. Patricia Daly-Lipe, is an Author and Artist. She has written six books, all different genres. She is winner of the San Diego Book Awards, Best Books Finalist, the JADA Novel Contest, USABookNews.com Finalist, 2009 2nd place in poetry by the Virginia Writers Club, Inc, and 2013 winner in historical fiction at the Annual Royal Dragonfly Book Awards for 'A CRUEL CALM, Paris Between the Wars and 2013 winner for her short story by the Virfginia Writers Assn.

Although born in La Jolla, California, Patricia spent equal time in Washington, D.C., home of several generations of her mother’s family.

She has taught at colleges and writing centers, written for magazines and newspapers (including the Evening Star in Washington, DC, La Jolla Village News, The Georgetowner andUptowner), and her paintings have been accepted and sold in Juried shows, art galleries, and private homes. Two of her books feature her paintings on their covers. Patricia served as President of both the La Jolla and DC Branches of the National League of American Pen Women. Patricia now lives in Virginia with her husband, Dr. Steele Lipe, three dogs, three horses, and two cats. For years, Patricia raised, raced, and showed Thoroughbred horses. Now she rescues them. She is the mother of three and grandmother of six children.

Patricia will be awarding a $25 Amazon gift card to one randomly drawn commenter. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour. Remember, the more you comment, the better your chances to win.

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. 

Giveaway! 'Veggies in Space: The Fennel Frontier'

How much do you love the Veggie Tales? This series has been beloved for years by families all over. Now you have the chance to win a new DVD of your own!

Welcome to the Veggie Tales: Veggies in Space: The Fennel Frontier Giveaway!

Hosted by:  The Savings Wife

One lucky winner will receive a copy of the Veggies in Space DVD!

Check out The Savings Wife's  review!

Giveaway is open until Midnight April 17th!

Giveaway is open to residents of US and Canada!

One entry per person please.
Enter on the Rafflecopter Below!

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Disclosure:  "The Savings Wife" solely organized this event and I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are 100% my own and may differ from your own or even those stated in this post. This event is in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising" and is in no way associated with any of the social media it is viewed/shared/located on. The sponsor is responsible for prize shipment and not this blog or any bloggers involved in the promotion. For the avoidance of doubt, Big Idea Entertainment, LLC and its parents, subsidiaries and affiliates are not a sponsor or affiliate of this giveaway.” (the “Statement”). 

'When I Fall in Love' by Clint Morey

Blurb:

A self-centered girl's perfect world is turned upside down when her grandfather has a stroke. As the family members descend on the old homestead and seek to protect "their share" of the estate, Amy is assigned the job of caring for her grandparents. As she learns more about how God brought her grandparents together, Amy finds her own experiences coinciding with their love story. By the end, she's willing to fight her entire family to see that her grandparents' great adventure doesn't end in a nursing home. While her great adventure is just beginning.

Buy links

Amazon US \ UK \ CAN \ Barnes & Noble

Author bio: 

Born and raised in L.A., it didn’t take much to convince my wife and I to leave the smog, traffic and dead bolts of Southern California and head for a new life in The Big Sky Country — Montana. Montana has been and continues to be a great adventure for us. God has blessed us in many ways — six beautiful children and many wonderful friends. It’s also a great place to be a writer.

Website: www.clintmorey.com

Calling all bloggers! Veggie Tales Giveaway!

Join The Savings Wife and other great blogs in the "Veggies in Space: The final Frontier" Giveaway!

Giveaway Dates:  March 17th - April 17

Open to US and CA

Sign up here

'My Dog Understands English!' by Cherise Kelley

My Dog Understands English - Week Blitz

By Cherise Kelley

Non-Fiction / Memoir / Dog Stories

Date Published: 11/30/2013

Dogs are smarter than we think.

Has your dog ever surprised you by doing something you said the first time? You are not alone! Here are 50 stories about amazing dogs who understood what their humans said. Some even saved lives in the process!

Chloe the golden Beagle braved a hurricane to obey the new command, "I need Dad, Girl."

Ellie the Coonhound helped her human family escape from an angry bear by obeying the new command, "Get it!"

When her human brother said jokingly, "Maybe Cocoa could dig again and find it," Cocoa did just that!

Our Queensland Heeler mix, Raffle, gave me the idea for this book when he finally but unexpectedly ate some green beans off the kitchen floor after I said, "Oh, so you'll eat grass but you won't eat green beans, eh?"

EXCERPT

By the time my eyes fluttered open, Hurricane Elvis was already underway.

The entire house was shaking by the time I woke up. The wind angrily pounded at the window with such force that I was sure it was going to break. I sat up and tried to flip the light on, but the power was out. Terrified, I climbed off the bed and hid between it and the wall. I was still disoriented from just waking up, but I remember vividly not being able to hear anything except the storm. As I sat there though, I heard a noise from outside the room.

Mustering up the courage to pull myself up on my knees, I opened the door just in time to see the living room window shatter as a tree flew through it.

As I watched the storm raging inside the house, I grew worried for my sisters. I called for them, but they didn't answer. I could feel the panic swelling up inside me, taking over. I looked over my shoulder. My dog Chloe was close behind me, and I told her to stay. Then, I began my journey across the living room. The plan was to crawl underneath the tree. I could reach the bedroom that way. As I crossed the living room, the wind pushed up.

Before I knew it, the entertainment center was on top of me, pinning my legs down.

Try as I might, I couldn't move. I now realized the predicament I was in. Thankfully, Chloe hadn't listened when I gave her the command to stay. As soon as I was trapped, Chloe was on her stomach, crawling to me. I looked at her with tears in my eyes, and with a whimper, she nudged me.

I whispered, too scared to speak in my normal tone. "I need Dad, Girl."

That was all I said. I never expected anything to come of it. After all, I had never taught her a command that was anywhere close to this. I was only telling her because it made me feel more comfortable. I was so scared, and hugging and talking to my animal made me feel better. But before I could pull her into my arms, she pulled herself out of my grip and ran back in the direction we had come from.

I closed my eyes, trying to ignore the cold that pressed against my unprotected body. I was rapidly growing numb. I could hear Chloe barking, but faintly so. I didn't realize what she was doing. My dog was getting my dad's attention. Within seconds, he was alerted to the situation and was fighting the storm to get to me. It didn't take much for him to get the window blocked off and the entertainment center off of me. The rest of the storm was waited out quietly.

That was how Chloe became so much more than just the family pet. She saved my life, and all because she understood English so much more than we expected her to.

Author Links

Website | Facebook

Buy Links

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iTunes |Kobo

This Blitz is brought to you by Reading Addiction Book Tours

'Keltrius and the Armor of God: Special Edition' by D.L. Partee

Blurb:

In this special edition of Keltrius and the armor of God. Before the son, there was the father. Keltrius's father, Leon travels from heaven to protect a young woman and her unborn child from the devil's army. In the midst of protecting her and carrying out his order the unexpected happens......he falls in love with her and discovers that he will need to make the ultimate sacrifice for his family. Keltrius the son, will continue the battle as God's new Champion. As he learns about his unique gifts he struggle to maintain a normal childhood all while dealing with life's challenges.

Available on Amazon

US \ UK \ CAN

Find out more about God's first superhero by visiting the Champion of the Shield website!

'Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek (The Good News Shoes / FaithGirlz Series)' by Jill Osborne

Description

If you’re gonna run for your life, you gotta wear the right shoes. Riley Mae Hart loves sports and action---so when the Swiftriver Shoe Company offers her a contract to be the spokesperson for their new outdoor sport collection, she jumps at the chance. Soon she’s appearing in commercials and magazine ads, and every girl in town wants to wear Riley Mae shoes. Well, except for Riley. Because walking in those shoes means missing out on softball season, making her best friend TJ mad, and embarrassing her new friend, Rusty. It also means sneaking around, hiding, and keeping secrets---because suddenly something isn’t quite right at Swiftriver. But a contract’s a contract, so Riley laces up her “Rock Shocker” hiking boots for a climb up Half-Dome in Yosemite. Will they be the right shoes to get her back on solid ground?

Buy links

Amazon US \ UK \ CAN \ B&N

~~An average of 4.8 *s for this first book in a new series for girls from Zonderkidz~~