"A Strand of Hope" by Amanda Tero -- Book Review, Art Contest, and Giveaway

About the Book

Journey with a horseback librarian into the hidden crevices of Kentucky mountains. Feel her pain as she struggles not only to barely make ends meet, but as she also attempts to connect the pieces of her own life while her mom continues to make selfish decisions.

Lena Davis is the daughter her mom never wanted.

But she survived. Through stories. Because books didn’t judge. Books weren’t angry she was alive. Books never expected her to be anything but who she was.

As she grows up, her beloved library becomes her true home. So when the library is designated part of President Roosevelt’s Packhorse Library Project, Lena is determined to get the job of bringing books to highlanders, believing she’ll finally be free of her mom forever.

But earning the trust of highlanders is harder than she imagined, and her passion for books might not be enough to free her from her chains.

The Packhorse Library Project was part of President Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration to encourage education in the remote parts of the mountains. “A Strand of Hope” is a historical fiction novella based on real events but set in the fictional town of Willow Hollow in the Appalachian mountains.


My Thoughts

"A Strand of Hope" is a YA book, but can be enjoyed by older readers (It has been a long time since I fit the YA label!). This book is well written and I could imagine myself there with Lena in her cold shack, or in the mountains delivering books. As is typical of books by Amanda Tero, this book did not have a romance thread, but it had a great biblical faith element woven through it. Some great truths are shared during the book that can be applied to readers in this day and age as well. I liked how we got the setting established for the other books that are to come in this series. I can't wait to read the other books in the series as well as other books by Amanda Tero.

About the Author


Amanda Tero began her love for words at a young age—reading anything she could get her hands on and penning short stories as young as age eight. Since graduation, she has honed her writing skills by dedicated practice and study of the writing craft. She began her journey of publication with a few short stories that she had written for her sisters and continued to add to her collection with other short stories, novellas, and novels. It is her utmost desire to write that which not only pleases her Lord and Savior, but also draws the reader into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.


Visit here for more information about the book!

Art Contest and Giveaway!

For more fun and games, visit Amanda Tero's blog.



"A Strand of Hope" is available in paperback:

• Series: Librarians of Willow Hollow (Book 1)
• Paperback: 173 pages
• Publisher: ARTStudios (July 16, 2020)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1942931328
• ISBN-13: 978-1942931324
• Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.4 x 8 inches

and in Kindle edition:

• File Size: 6620 KB
• Print Length: 116 pages
• Publication Date: July 28, 2020
• Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
• Language: English
• ASIN: B08B5NZPTY

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

"Wedding Score" by Amanda Tero -- Book Review, Blog Tour, and Giveaway

About the Release

Are you a single who has been in this singleness journey a little longer than you anticipated? This week is the release of Amanda Tero’s contemporary fiction novella, “Wedding Score.” Main character Stephanie is there with you as she’s suddenly thrown into a season of discontentment and impatience. Told in a whimsical, honest style, “Wedding Score” is a 1-2 hour short read that leaves readers feeling understood and hopeful.

About "Wedding Score"

Most girls dream of their wedding days. Except me. I’m too busy practicing piano and being the live soundtrack for everyone else’s weddings to think about my own. 

I’ve survived most of my twenties with harmonious chords and pleasant days. So why is it that now, at twenty-seven, a discordant feeling presents itself? 

Is there a solid solution to loneliness when there is absolutely no potential husband on the horizon?

A CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN SHORT READ

Goodreads | Amazon | Signed paperback

My Thoughts

"Wedding Score" isn't your typical type of story with a happily-ever-after romance. Stephanie is happy for her friends and family as they find their own HEAs, but her feelings of longing and loneliness are a reminder that God doesn't follow the same pattern for everyone. Some people marry when they are older or may never marry. The story is a great reminder that we need to seek God and lean on Him for support and not ourselves or other people. Having never had a boyfriend or been on a date by the time I was 25, I could relate to the things that Stephanie was going through. They were very realistic and thought out. The story was well written and was full of spiritual, godly messages. I look forward to reading more books by Amanda Tero.

About Amanda

Amanda Tero began her love for words at a young age—reading anything she could get her hands on and penning short stories as young as age eight. Since graduation, she has honed her writing skills by dedicated practice and study of the writing craft. She began her journey of publication with a few short stories that she had written for her sisters and continued to add to her collection with other short stories, novellas, and novels. It is her utmost desire to write that which not only pleases her Lord and Savior, but also draws the reader into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

Connect with Amanda

| Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Blog | Goodreads | Amazon | 

amandaterobooks@gmail.com

Giveaway

Amanda is giving away paperbacks, yes... 

But she really wants to share this story with as many readers as possible. So, for release week, she'll be sending eBooks to anyone who wants one! So hop over and submit your email for a free eBook!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Visit Amanda's blog for a complete list of bloggers and special tour information.

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

"Protecting the Poor" by Amanda Tero -- Book Review, Blog Tour, and Giveaway

This week signals the completion of the Tales of Faith series!

Guest Post

by Amanda Tero

One of the biggest lessons God taught me while writing “Protecting the Poor” is seasons (a lesson I’ve technically “learned” before, but needed a reminder). I had finally finished a full draft after several months’ of hard work… only to put it aside and dive into full-time college work for the first time (I’m considered a “non-traditional student” – aka, old ;) ). 

In December, I did a brush-up edit (but wasn’t able to fully focus on writing, as I had two siblings get married in December and January), then had to push it aside again for my second semester of school. It wasn’t until May that I finally got to focus on writing. 

I am totally not used to letting a project rest, but for right now, in this season of life, it’s not a fully-focused writing season. It’s a season to focus on music (my major and job, as I teach). It wasn’t an easy pill to swallow, but it has been a beneficial lesson, realizing that God holds my time in His hands and that He knows exactly when this or that needs to be done. Surrendering my schedule to Him isn’t easy, but it’s needful. 

What lesson has God been teaching you lately?

About the Book

Sheriff Feroci is now lord over the province, and Abtshire has become a pit of injustice. Being forced into the lord’s service does not give Dumphey as many opportunities to help the poor as he desires. When attempts on his life drive him into the forest, this freedom opens a world of possibilities for helping others. But how can he do so when he is running for his life? And does God want him to do more than simply feed the poor?

Noel has always hidden behind the shadow of his older brother, Dumphey. When life forces him to stand on his own, will he still follow God in the corrupt world in which he lives? Would God really call him to do something that is beyond his power to do?

As Lord Feroci's sinister plot comes to light, each lad has a choice to make. A choice that could cost them their lives.

Find on Amazon.

Add to Goodreads.

My Thoughts

"Protecting the Poor" is the third book in the Tales of Faith series. It is a Robin Hood retelling. Having met Dumphey and Noel in the second book of the series, it was nice to read their story. It was a little different with the story being from the viewpoints of Dumphey and Noel only and not having a female main character like other books usually do. I was drawn back into time with this story and the plight of the characters felt like it was my friends' troubles. The story held twists I didn't expect and the action kept me engaged. The story wrapped up the series with a nice recap of what happened. It will be sad to not be seeing more from Belle, Lia, Dumphey, and Noel, but I look forward to reading more books from Amanda Tero.

Giveaway

It wouldn't be a release party without a giveaway! One U.S. Winner will receive the complete paperback Tales of Faith series, and one International Winner will receive the complete eBook series.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ORDER PAPERBACKS

Do you want to get a signed copy of "Protecting the Poor?" Order here!

About the Series

Find on Amazon

Find on Amazon

About the Author

Amanda Tero began her love for words at a young age—reading anything she could get her hands on and penning short stories as young as age eight. Since graduation, she has honed her writing skills by dedicated practice and study of the writing craft. She began her journey of publication with a few short stories that she had written for her sisters and continues to add to her collection with other short stories, novellas, and novels. It is her utmost desire to write that which not only pleases her Lord and Savior, but also draws the reader into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

Connect with Amanda

Email: amandaterobooks@gmail.com
Website: http://amandatero.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandateroauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandateroauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amandaruthtero/
Blog: www.withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AmandaTero
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/amandatero

BLOG TOUR

A group of wonderful book bloggers has joined me in celebrating the release week of "Protecting the Poor." Almost every post has something different, so be sure to check them all out!!

Monday - August 26, 2019

With a Joyful Noise - Protecting the Poor Release Post

Life of Heritage Corner - Interview, Review, Giveaway

Great Books for God's Girls - Interview, Review

Peculiar Miss Darcy - Interview

Honey Rock Hills - Review

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations - Spotlight, Review, Guest Post

Tuesday - August 27, 2019

We've Got Pockets - Review

Maidens for Modesty - Giveaway, Guest Post

A Brighter Destiny - Spotlight

Wednesday - August 28, 2019

Soldier Girl Stories - Interview

Purposeful Learning - Spotlight, Guest Post

Thursday - August 29, 2019

Rachel Rossano's Works - Spotlight, Guest Post

In My Bookcase - Review, Giveaway

Friday - August 30, 2019

Losing the Busyness - Spotlight, Review, Giveaway

Resting Life - Guest Post

Saturday - August 31, 2019

Blossoms and Blessings - Spotlight, Review, Guest Post

Verbosity Reviews – Spotlight, Review, Guest Post, Giveaway

God's Peculiar Treasure Rae - Review

Reading on the Edge - Spotlight

Monday - September 2, 2019

With a Joyful Noise - Giveaway Winner Announced

Do you want to be involved in Amanda's next release? 

Wedding Score is open for reviewers, bloggers, and influencers. Sign up here.

"Protecting the Poor" is available in Kindle edition:

• File Size: 3864 KB
• Print Length: 155 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publication Date: August 26, 2019
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
• Language: English
• ASIN: B07S8YB55F

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

Amanda Tero Post #3

About the Tour

The clock is ticking until the release of “Protecting the Poor!” This is the third and final month of Tales of Faith 3-month tour. We’ve spent a month on “Befriending the Beast,” a month on “The Secret Slipper,” and now, are looking at a month digging into “Protecting the Poor”—the history behind it, behind-the-scenes of writing and editing, the messages threaded through it, and more. Amanda will link to each blog on With a Joyful Noise, so check in every week and see what blogs have a special Tales of Faith feature!

Pre-Order Protecting the Poor on Amazon 

Do you want to get a signed paperback copy of "Protecting the Poor?" Order here!

(stay tuned for my review of Protecting the Poor on the 31st)

How Much of Robin Hood is History?

As a kid, I thought Robin Hood was a historical figure. Well… then I grew up. And got much wiser. And crushed my childhood fantasies. Because I realized it was just a tale. Not quite a fairytale, but definitely a tale.

If you think about it, though, even fictionalized stories have an element of truth (I mean, consider nursery rhymes—they’re more than just “cute little ditties” because of their political inferences). So, I do believe that Robin Hood has historical elements, even though the ballads and tales have skewered the original accuracy. There are many historical characters from which a Robin Hood character could have been generated. King David in the Old Testament. Eustace the Monk. Fulk FitzWarin. The list can go on of historical figures who were outlawed, lived in the forest, fought against the injustice of nobility (or, some stories, just fought against authority).

Robin Hood first appeared in historical recordings as early as mid-1300s. Many refer to “Robin Hood and the Monk” (an originally untitled piece) as one of the first ballads of Robin Hood. It is 92 stanzas long, so I’ll just share the first two (read the full ballad here):

        

In somer, when the shawes be sheyne,
And leves be large and long,
Hit is full mery in feyre foreste
To here the foulys song,

To se the dere draw to the dale,
And leve the hilles hee,
And shadow hem in the leves grene,
Under the grene wode tre.

Throughout the ages, Robin Hood has been known as Robin des Bois, Robehood, Rabunhod, Robyn Hode, Hobbehod, Robert Hod and many other variations of “Robert” and “Hood.” Though historians cannot prove his existence, there is a traditional grave for him in Yorkshire. Some insist that Robin Hood never existed but was, more or less, imagined for bedtime stories for the wee ones.

What do you think? Did a Robin Hood likely exist? If so, do you think he was more culprit or hero?

If your Robin Hood addiction (ahem… fascination) wants to learn more about the tales, ballads, and historical elements, here are some great websites to check out:

https://robinhoodlegend.com/early-ballads/

https://www.history.com/topics/british-history/robin-hood

http://www.mythencyclopedia.com/Pr-Sa/Robin-Hood.html

About Amanda

Amanda Tero began her love for words at a young age—reading anything she could get her hands on and penning short stories as young as age eight. Since graduation, she has honed her writing skills by dedicated practice and study of the writing craft. She began her journey of publication with a few short stories that she had written for her sisters and continued to add to her collection with other short stories, novellas, and novels. It is her utmost desire to write that which not only pleases her Lord and Savior, but also draws the reader into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

Connect with Amanda

Email: amandaterobooks@gmail.com
Website: http://amandatero.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandateroauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandateroauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amandaruthtero/
Blog: www.withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AmandaTero
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/amandatero

"The Secret Slipper" by Amanda Tero --Book Review

About the Book  

Being a cripple is only the beginning of Lia’s troubles. It seems as if Bioti’s goal in life is to make Lia as miserable as possible. If Lia’s purpose is to be a slave, then why did God make her a cripple? How can He make something beautiful out of her deformity? Raoul never questioned the death of his daughter until someone reports her whereabouts. If Ellia is still alive, how has she survived these ten years with her deformity? When Raoul doesn’t know who to trust, can he trust God to keep Ellia safe when evidence reveals Bioti’s dangerous character? As time brings more hindrances, will Raoul find Ellia, or will she forever be lost to the father she doesn't even know is searching for her?


My Thoughts

"The Secret Slipper" follows "Befriending the Beast" (Raoul going to see his brother the king takes place shortly before the end of the first book). I loved this retelling. At first I was thinking that it was going to be a Rapunzel retelling, but then realized it was a different twist on Cinderella and her step mother and step sisters. This was a very quick read, but it didn't feel short. A lot of story is packed into the book. I found it interesting that the prince of the story was the father and not a love interest. I loved the faith element in the book and that the Gospel message was clearly given. I look forward to reading more from Amanda Tero.

About the Author 

Amanda Tero is a homeschool graduate who desires to provide God-honoring, family-friendly reading material. She has enjoyed writing since before ten years old, but it has only been since 2013 that she began seriously pursuing writing again - starting with some short stories that she wrote for her sisters as a gift. Her mom encouraged her to try selling the stories she published, and since then, she has begun actively writing short stories, novellas, and novels.

If something she has written draws an individual into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, it is worth it!

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5)

Connect with Amanda
Email: amandaterobooks@gmail.com
Website: amandatero.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandaterobooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandateroauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/truthpicsart/
Blog: www.withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AmandaTero
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/amandatero



"The Secret Slipper" is available in paperback:

• Series: Tales of Faith
• Paperback: 164 pages
• Publisher: ARTStudios (May 1, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1942931239
• ISBN-13: 978-1942931232
• Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.4 x 8 inches

and in Kindle edition:

• File Size: 3205 KB
• Print Length: 166 pages
• Publication Date: May 25, 2017
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
• Language: English
• ASIN: B071R5859Y