Spotlight and Giveaway: The Last Disciple: Gospel of John (The Last Disciple Book Four) by Kurt Brouwer

About the Book

Book: The Last Disciple: Gospel of John (The Last Disciple Book Four)

Author: Kurt Brouwer

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: February 10, 2025

Discover the Untold Story of the Last Disciple to Witness the Miracles of Christ

In a world shrouded in doubt and darkness, one man holds the key to the greatest story ever told.

The epic saga of the Last Disciple continues in this captivating new Christian historical novel from Kurt Brouwer. Witness the miracles of Jesus through the eyes of one who was there. John, a disciple of Christ, watched the Son of God sacrifice his life on the Cross and entered the empty tomb after Jesus rose from the grave.

Witness Jesus Through the Eyes of One Who Was with Him

Years after witnessing the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Apostle John seeks to faithfully write down the life-changing events he experienced firsthand.

Go back in time with John to old Jerusalem as he describes the fateful meeting between the Messiah and Nicodemus in which Christ uttered the most beloved passage in the Bible: ”For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

John sets down the true story of Christ, contending with those who seek to water down the gospel message. Accompanied by trusted allies like Emmaus and Avram, John travels from Ephesus to Laodicea, Hierapolis, and beyond, determined to ensure the world never forgets the sacrifice and love of the Son of God.

John reunites with his old friend and fellow disciple, Philip, who is gravely ill. In a desperate bid to save Philip’s life, John seeks out the help of Evangeline, a skilled herbalist and healer. After Philip recovers, a mob whipped up by a high priest of the goddess Cybele lays in wait to attack John and Philip.

Will violent enemies of the faith cut off the gospel message John carries?

Witness the miracles of Jesus through the eyes of the Beloved Disciple—and discover how one man’s courage can change the course of history.

If you’re struggling with doubt, searching for meaning, or hungry to deepen your faith, The Last Disciple: Gospel of John is the Christian novel you’ve been waiting for.

Don’t miss this gripping tale of courage, conviction, and the eternal power of the gospel!

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Kurt Brouwer is a Christian and a member of a vibrant Christian church on the Big Island of Hawaii. So, in addition to all the usual temptations writers face, Kurt has to fight off the lure of beautiful beaches, pounding surf, great weather, and lush golf courses. Can you imagine?

About nine years ago, Kurt did a study for his church on the Apostle John. If you’ve ever been obsessed by anything, you’ll understand what happened. Kurt couldn’t stop researching, digging, diving into the life of John and other first century Christians. Kurt read books by early church historians who wrote quite a bit more more about the disciples, but they often contradicted each other. Further, they never really delved into the daily lives and motivations, joys and sorrows of the first Christians.

Kurt took all of his research and knowledge, all the insights and details he had acquired and turned it into a series of Christian historical novels based on research and Biblical knowledge.

The first four books in the series are now available:

The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem, The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch, The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus, and The Last Disciple: Gospel of John.

You can also read more on why he started the series at his website.

More from Kurt

About 10 years ago, I read a piece on BibleGateway.com estimating that the Gospel of John came out fifty years or more after the Crucifixion of Christ! I couldn’t stop wondering what John did all those years? Why did it take so long to write the fourth gospel? Was it the world’s longest case of writer’s block?

In this new book, The Last Disciple: Gospel of John, we witness John struggling to put down on papyrus the life-changing events he experienced as he walked with Jesus. We go back in time and watch Christ uttering the most beloved verse in the Bible: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

While we all know this verse as John 3:16, John himself would not have understood this designation at all. It’s obvious to us that it refers to the book of John, chapter three, verse sixteen.

But, in the course of research for this series, I found out that chapter and verse did not exist in the first century. In fact, the first published Bible that used this format for both the Old Testament and the New Testament was the Geneva Bible published after 1500 AD.

As you can tell, I’m having fun writing these books. Each day I try to faithfully depict the lives of the first Christians and to show their love for Jesus and faith in the gospel message.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 18

Inspired by Fiction, July 18

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 19

Bizwings Book Blog, July 20

Artistic Nobody, July 21 (Author Interview)

CeCe Reads and Sings, July 21

She Lives to Read, July 22

Fiction Book Lover, July 23 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, July 24

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 25

Simple Harvest Reads, July 26 (Author Interview)

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, July 27

Guild Master, July 28 (Author Interview)

Cover Lover Book Review, July 29

Mary Hake, July 30

Tell Tale Book Reviews, July 31 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Kurt is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54252

Book Tour and Giveaway: Serves You Right by Orion Gregory

 

Book Details:

Book Title:  Serves You Right by Orion Gregory
Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 300 pages 
Genre: Mystery / Thriller
Publisher:  Publish Authority
Release date:   July 8, 2025
Content Rating:  PG-13 + M: No explicit sex scenes, a couple of f-words, one suicide.

Book Description:

Rookie detective Sydney Livingstone thought she’d left the chaos of her tennis career behind when she joined the small Walsh County Police Department. But a shadowy figure known as "The Enforcer" has other plans. On the dark web, a vigilante is waging their own brand of justice, pushing Sydney to confront a force that threatens to unravel everything she holds dear.

As she investigates a disturbing series of events, including a stalker targeting a seasoned officer, Sydney must navigate the twisted maze of corruption, deception, and a growing conspiracy within her own department. With the media spotlight on Walsh County and danger closing in, will Sydney uncover the truth—or become its next victim?​

Buy the Book:
AMAZON
add to goodreads

Meet the Author:

Orion Gregory spent the early part of his career as a writer in the newspaper, magazine, and advertising industries, where he was the recipient of several prestigious awards. The latter part of his working career consisted of more than 25 years in marketing/sales industry. He never forgot his love of writing during that time, and always vowed to return to his roots. Presently, Orion spends the majority of his time writing mystery/thriller novels when he’s not coaching or teaching tennis. He finds great pleasure in mentoring young people and improving the conditions of animals in need. His life revolves around his wife and two daughters, as well as the wonderful friends he has made along his journey. He subscribes to the theory that the only bad pun is the one left unsaid.

connect with the author: website ~ x ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Enter the Giveaway:

SERVES YOU RIGHT Book Tour Giveaway

My Review:

Serves You Right: Because Waiting for Karma Takes Forever (A Sydney Livingstone Detective Novel) is my first experience in reading Orion Gregory's work. I thought this was a great book to read. I found it to be fast paced, making me continue to keep turning the pages. Right from the first page, my interest was piqued, and held my attention all throughout. Once I thought I knew what was going to happen next, there was a new twist. I was often questioning who done it. I loved the main character of Sydney Livingstone. The plot was so detailed, I felt as though I was on her investigative team and wanting to find out how it would all unfold. I admired her bravery, courage, and determination to keep pushing forward. One of my favorite thrillers I have read so far this year. 

I am going to give Serves You Right: Because Waiting for Karma Takes Forever a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read suspense filled mysteries and thrillers. I would love to read a follow up novel to catch up with Sydney Livingstone in the near future. I am curious to find out what Orion Gregory has in store for her. 

 

I received a paperback copy of Orion Gregory's Serves You Right: Because Waiting for Karma Takes Forever  from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion. 

Book Blast and Giveaway: The Pyjama Boy by Steven Murphy

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Steven Murphy will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Steven Murphy spent his formative years in Sydney's Redfern.

Abandoned by his mother when only weeks old, his father left him in the care of a cruel, alcoholic stepmother while he himself was in jail. Unbelievably, the child they dubbed the "Pyjama Boy" fought his way through life to achieve his ultimate goal. His story is a poignant and haunting one that captivates its reader from the very beginning and remains long after the book has been closed.

AN INSPIRATIONAL TALE OF SUCCESS AGAINST THE ODDS

Read an Excerpt

There was something odd about the woman driving the yellow station wagon. Her eyes darted around suspiciously. Steve watched her from his patrol car. Her 1988 Sigma moved off from his right at the green lights, to enter the late-night traffic. She had a passenger, a young man with a wispy beard. As they moved, the man looked across at the police car waiting third in line at the red light and then glanced momentarily over his shoulder into the back seat. Sparks spat along the dark surface of the road as he tossed his cigarette out the window of the car.

‘Nervy little punk, ’ remarked the older police constable next to Steve.

‘There’s something odd about both of them in that Sigma...,’ said Steve.

‘Yeah, I think we should have a chat with them.’

As lights turned green and when they were clear of the intersection, Steve pulled past the two vehicles in front of them. The Sigma had increased its pace and was nearly out of view as it turned left almost without slowing. Steve’s pulse rate rose with the revs of the police car. They swung into the side street and passed the Sigma with Red and blue lights flashing, then slowed in front of it. The older policeman put his arm out his window, indicating that the Sigma should pull up at the curb.

While the woman searched a handbag for her licence, Steve noticed that there was someone lying on the back seat of the car. Shining his torch through the window, Steve realised with a jolt that the passenger was gagged, with a tee shirt twisted and pulled tightly into an open mouth. The arms were pulled back and bound at the wrists with a leather belt.

Within minutes a second patrol car had arrived at the scene and the couple were taken into custody, their bound and gagged passenger found to be dead. Steve looked at the victim, a man in his mid-thirties and recognised the face of one who had recently ‘helped him in his enquiries.’ Soon there were detectives and forensic officers examining the car and, as the body was being removed, Steve received orders to drive to an address in a nearby suburban street.

About the Author:

I've never thought of myself as special-just someone who has lived through life's challenges like everyone else. But over time, I've come to see that by sharing my journey, with all its imperfections, I might offer something meaningful to others. Life moves so quickly, and the choices we make shape everything. My hope is that by being honest about my experiences, others might find encouragement or even a little clarity for their own paths.

Speaking at Schools and events across Australia has been an unexpected privilege. These moments aren't about presenting a perfect image; they're about connecting with people on a real, human level. I bring photos, videos, and documents to show the truth of my story-not to impress but to connect. When I speak openly, sharing the vulnerabilities and lessons I've learned, something powerful happens: the audience feels it, and suddenly, it's not just my story-its something they can see themselves in, too.

If you would like to have Steve speak to your School, group or organization he can be contacted through email: stevenmurphy_11@bigpond.com

You can connect with Steven Murphy through a number of platforms to learn more about his story and work.

Website: https://thepyjamaboy.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/stevenmurphyauthor
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/56696685.Steven_Murphy

Book Trailer" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUopXLOFQU4

Visit his website to view the one bedroom flats he uses to live in and show his living conditions as described in the book.

Feel free to reach out — Steven is always happy to connect with readers and share more about his journey.

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Blurb Blitz and Giveaway: Mad Season: Elles Garity's Story by Gregory Armstrong

 

MAD SEASON: ELLES GARITY'S STORY

Gregory Armstrong

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GENRE:  Literary Fiction

 

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BLURB:

 

Fifteen years ago, Elles Garity’s world came crashing down, in more ways than one. Now in her mid-twenties, long since removed from the small island town that she grew up in and never dealing with the pain of her loss, life is calling her back home. In the affirmant of recent unfortunate events Elles finds herself at a turning point once more. This time though, she’ll be forced to confront both her unresolved grief and the people and places she left behind. It won’t be easy. Along the way Elles will learn the truth behind a new friend’s dark connection to her tragic past and be the last to uncover unthinkable family secrets that will unravel everything she ever knew about the family she thought she lost.

 

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EXCERPT:

 

Now, I was questioning all of it. I didn’t deal with things well. I didn’t allow anyone to help me deal with things. My life, the road I was on, the lane I had shifted into when I took the wheel, to put it quite figuratively, looked dark and dismal. I was solely responsible for switching my life into cruise control before ever giving myself a chance to learn to drive the damn car.

 

All these things ran through my head. I didn’t speak to Loyal about any of it. Where would I start? How could she possibly understand my position? Not that I gave her a fighting chance. Time sort of stood still as I sat there frozen, empty. I started this. I made this mess. I had no fucking clue how to fix it. I closed my eyes for a while, and when I opened them, it hit me like a slap to the head. The answer was staring me in the face. Where it all went wrong is where it needed to begin again.

 

“Grace, I’m worried about you.”

 

She had never said those words to me before. Ironic, though, how it came across, how I took it—her spotting the wreckage and expressing concern to the very person who was entangled in the heap. Out of upheaval, I took solace in a clouded idea to uproot myself once more. I emerged partially from my funk, oddly enough,

 

with a wayward smile and slightly brighter outlook. I turned to Loyal, sincere. “Everyone must think I’m horrible.”

 

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

 

Born in Westerly, Rhode Island, and a Connecticut native all my life, my family eventually moved to Norwich in 1977, where I grew up. I attended and graduated from Norwich Free Academy in 1991. It was there, in my final two years, where I acquired a passion for writing. At the time, the school provided a writing center, a classroom filled with computers, designated as a creative writing outlet for the students, and overseen by the now accomplished author Wally Lamb. Here, we were free to use our time working on our own projects, developing, learning, and sharpening our writing skills. Each class, we would gather in a circle to show and share our work with Mr. Lamb and the rest of the class by either reading or having our material read aloud, and hearing feedback from our peers.

 

Mr. Lamb’s writing center instilled a desire in me to one day write a book and become an author, just as he was doing, putting the final touches on his debut novel, She’s Come Undone. Unfortunately, for me, that is when that dream of mine became a struggle that would last decades. At the age of three, I contracted meningitis, which caused me to go completely blind and left me hospitalized for several weeks. Despite doctors believing my vision would never return, it did, slowly and to a certain degree, although my optic nerve had sustained too much damage and I was declared legally blind.

 

Growing up was a struggle. Socially, I was quiet, shy, uncomfortable knowing I was different from all of the other kids, because of my physical limitations and lack in self-confidence. Reading was also a challenge. Even though I soon got my first pair of glasses, which made my vision clearer, being able to see the print on a page was still a major issue. For those reasons, I have never been much of a reader, and how does someone who doesn’t read, who doesn’t study the art of literature through books, because it was a strenuous activity on my eyes, learn how to write?

 

The fact that I found myself stuck, without the necessary tools and unsure of my own talents and abilities to be a quality writer, all the other insecurities of my childhood at play, I gave it up for a time. My active imagination for storytelling did not. As I got older, and into my teenage years I started listening to more music to fill a void. The more I listened, the more I began to broaden my tastes in artists, groups and genres, and the more I heard stories in the songs. Music, along with television and movies, were combining to strengthen my inspiration to be an aspiring author.

 

One such movie, which mirrored many of my own self-imposed hurdles, was Eddie and the Cruisers. The character of Eddie Wilson, lead singer of a fictional rock and roll band, was consumed by the notion that his music was never good enough, that if they were going to be a band, they had to be great, if they were going to release an album, it had to be great as well. I had obviously grown-up learning and hearing about the great authors and novelists of all time, the great classic books. I had always put that pressure on myself, the same way Eddie Wilson did. I was convinced that I didn’t know how to write, and even if I did, would it be good enough? I had been told, taught by teachers and others, that there were rules to the writing game, including creating a story outline, character development, a whole assortment of proper steps to follow and processes before the writing even began.

 

Over the years, I started a novel a time or two, hating it, and giving up again. I met my future wife, got married, started a family, and quit my average job to become a stay-at-home dad. Through all of it, thirty-plus years, that ever-present need to write gnawing at me, the urge still there, my vivid imagination still running wild—I couldn’t ignore it anymore. I had to let that creativity out and give it a real and focused purpose. With the rough idea of a plot in mind, I sat down at the computer and finally let all of those insecurities go. With a shot of determination and a relaxed mind, I slowly but surely discovered my own writing style, and found my storytelling voice. To hell with all the rules, the unrealistic expectations I placed upon myself, the result—a deeply, emotionally charged story of tragedy, personal reflection, and redemption, that is Mad Season.

 

https://gregoryarmstrongbooks.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561749654997

 

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GIVEAWAY:

 

Gregory Armstrong will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.

 

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Blog Tour and Giveaway: Living Scriptures+ Summer Deal

 

Streaming with purpose for 50 years and counting

Living Scriptures+ vividly brings God's Words to life through a safe & fun channel growing faith and inspiring hearts. 

Living Scriptures+ is a faith-based streaming platform offering a rich and growing library of wholesome, inspiring entertainment for all ages. With over 5,000 titles and new content added weekly, it’s designed to uplift families through storytelling that aligns with eternal values. Whether you're looking for meaningful content for kids, teens, or adults, Living Scriptures+ brings together animated favorites, original productions, documentaries, and family films— all carefully selected to promote integrity, compassion, courage, and faith.

A 50-Year Legacy of Uplifting Media 

With roots dating back to 1974, Living Scriptures has spent five decades creating and curating content that strengthens families through meaningful storytelling. 

Streaming You Can Trust 

Living Scriptures+ offers a safe, uplifting streaming experience centered on timeless values like faith, family, integrity, and compassion. 

Over 5,000 Titles and Growing 

From animated stories for kids to inspiring films for adults, the platform adds new content weekly to meet the needs of all ages. 

Perfect for Family Movie Night 

Living Scriptures+ makes it easy to enjoy meaningful screen time together, with wholesome options you can trust every family member will love. 

Exclusive Originals You Can’t Watch Anywhere Else 

LS+ is now producing its own original short films, giving creators a platform to share powerful, purpose driven stories. 

Animated Classics That Teach Core Values 

Kids can enjoy engaging animation while learning important lessons about kindness, honesty, courage, and faith. 

Living Scriptures+ is a faith-based streaming platform offering a rich and growing library of wholesome, inspiring entertainment for all ages. With over 5,000 titles and new content added weekly, it’s designed to uplift families through storytelling that aligns with eternal values. Whether you're looking for meaningful content for kids, teens, or adults, Living Scriptures+ brings together animated favorites, original productions, documentaries, and family films—all carefully selected to promote integrity, compassion, courage, and faith.

Sign up for Living Scriptures+ and take advantage of their summer deal today! If you’re a new subscriber, you’ll get your first 2 months for only $0.99/month!

https://www.livingscriptures.com/momentum/

My Review:

It is always a struggle to find streaming services that are perfect for my family. It's not easy to find something that is appropriate for my kids to watch without worrying about what they are viewing. I was honestly skeptical about what would be provided on Living Scriptures+ at first. I was surprised and excited to find so many shows and movies that we can all watch together. I was not expecting the amount that is available to us. There is a huge variety of animations, comedies, historicals, dramas, etc available. I have a growing number of them on my wish list right now and plan on viewing them on our weekly family movie nights. It is nice to find a streaming service that will cleanly entertain and inspire my family. I am giving Living Scriptures+ five stars. I highly recommend it.

I received a short term subscription to preview Living Scriptures+ streaming service, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.  

Disclosure:

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

Giveaway: 

$10 Amazon giftcard AND 3-month subscription to Living Scriptures+

Leave a more than a three word completed sentence telling me what content you are most excited about with Living Scriptures+. Don’t forget to leave your email address so I can contact you if you win. Winner’s name will be drawn on July 16, 2025.

Giveaway Rules:   

Giveaway is limited to US winners only.        

Three or less word comments will be deleted and will not be entered into the giveaway.

Chosen winner/s will be contacted by email to verify information needed to give to the appropriate channels to get the prize to you. 

Winner/s MUST reply to this email within 24 hours. 

If no response, a new winner’s name will be drawn and you forfeit the prize.

Locks, Hooks and Books is NOT responsible for lack of response from the chosen winner. 

Winners from previous Momentum campaigns within 90 days will be disqualified. 

Please note: Locks, Hooks and Books is NOT responsible in sending the prize.

Book Tour and Giveaway: Big Sisters by Gordon Jensen

 

Book Details:
Book Title:  Big Sisters by Gordon Jensen
Category: Children's Non-Fiction (Ages 3-7),  32 pages
Genre:  Children's Non-Fiction 
Publisher:  Printopya
Release date:  November 2024
Content Rating:  G - The book is about the special relationship between sisters. ​

Book Description:

Winner of the Independent Book Award for the Novelty & Gift category and the Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention for the Children's Non-Fiction, Growing Pains, Picture Book - 5 Years and Younger, and Poetry categories, Big Sisters is a beautifully illustrated book that discusses the unique nature of the relationship between sisters.

Buy the Book
 Amazon 
add to Goodreads

Meet the Author:

​Gordon Jensen holds an MBA from University of Rochester, New York, Simon School of Business and a bachelor’s degree from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. After working in finance In New York for several years, Jensen went back to Minnesota to run the family business. He retired after selling the the business and is now fulfilling a number of life-long dreams, including writing a novel series.

Enter the Giveaway:

BIG SISTERS Book Tour Giveaway

My Review:

Big Sisters is a sweet book about the special bond between sisters by the talented Gordon Jensen. It starts off with the beginning of the oldest and when the youngest comes along - from the mothers tummy to birth. From there the relationship continues to grow into mature adulthood. I thought it was heartwarming to see the unconditional love shown. I loved the rhyming lines that made me smile and, at times, laugh out loud. Even though, I do not have an older or younger sister myself, I still enjoyed it very much. An overall, charming and entertaining book to read.

I loved the illustrations all throughout Big Sisters. The pictures follow along with the printed words on the pages and were visually appealing. I thought they were perfect to add to the book and helpful for the youngest of readers to hold their attention.

I highly recommend Big Sisters for readers between the ages of three and eight years of age, particularly for those who are a bigger sister, or anticipating the arrival of a younger one soon. I believe it would make a great placement on shelves of public libraries, elementary school classrooms, and even at a pediatrician's waiting room. I would love to read more books like this one from Gordon Jensen in the future.

I received a hard cover copy of Gordon Jensen's Big Sisters from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion. 

Blurb Blitz and Giveaway: Not Lucille by Mike Steele

 

NOT LUCILLE

Mike Steele

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GENRE:  Middle Grade Historical

 

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BLURB:

 

Ten-year-old Lucy Contento can't help but be seen and heard. And she's always in trouble for it. She talks too much. She's impulsive. She writes with the wrong hand. Her parents would be mad enough knowing she routinely earns afterschool detentions. They'd be furious if they found out she's been sneaking onto the campus of the nearby Trenton Academy for the Deaf. But there, Lucy has met Florence, a lonely and profoundly deaf girl her own age. Florence doesn't mind Lucy's flaws. Though Florence can't speak, she has a unique way of communicating. If Lucy can figure out how to learn Florence's special language, the two could be friends.

 

Lucy devises a plan, but it's going to cost a whopping $7.98-more money than she's got. She can't tell her parents why she wants the funds without revealing she's been visiting Florence. Besides, her parents don't have a penny to spare. Her father has been out of work for months. And nobody else in the Contento family has an income. Or do they ...? Lucy soon discovers she's not the only member of her family hiding something. Can she get the money she needs while keeping everyone's secrets? Or will her scheming land her in the biggest trouble of her life?

 

In this story of friendship and belonging, a young girl navigates prejudice, punishment, and identity while establishing her voice in a world that often tries to keep her silent.

 

 

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EXCERPT:

 

“Lucy! Lucy, Lucy! Oh, no, no, no!” Her best friend, Ann Salvatore, burst through the back of the crowd and barreled down the walkway toward her. Ann was normally thrilled to have a chance to wear her green party dress with puffed sleeves. This morning, however, she looked panicked, like she’d witnessed some horrible accident. “No, no, no, no, no!” Sweat pooled on her cheeks as she contorted her face in agony.

 

“What’s wrong?” Lucy suddenly feared the worst. “Don’t tell me the fifth graders got moved down to the fourth floor.”

 

“Worse than that. We’re in Miss Gillingham’s class.”

 

It wasn’t worse, but it wasn’t good news. Miss Gillingham had a reputation for being the strictest teacher at Robbins Elementary, the type to stand in the hall before and after class so she could yell at troublemakers who weren’t even on her roster. Miss Gillingham always taught sixth grade, though. Lucy hadn’t expected the teacher would be a concern for another year.

 

“She’s on the fifth-grade list,” Ann explained. “Classroom 5A. We’re both in it. She’s going to torture us.”

 

Lucy rolled her eyes, something she found herself doing often around her best friend. Ann seemed to feel emotions in extremes. She was either ecstatic or devastated, laughing or sobbing, rarely anything in between. Miss Gillingham may not have been Lucy’s top-choice teacher, but she couldn’t be that bad, not bad enough to torture students.

 

“She’s awful to the good kids,” Ann said. “Imagine what you’re in for.”

 

 

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

 

Mike Steele is an elementary school librarian and former fourth and fifth grade classroom teacher. He has eight plays that are published and licensed for production in the school play market. Not Lucille is his debut middle-grade novel. Whether writing plays or novels, he enjoys creating characters and situations that make kids laugh. In his spare time, he likes to attend plays and musicals, create mixed-media artwork, and win prizes from claw machines. He lives at the Jersey Shore with his rescue tabby cats, Karen and Sox. If you spot him in the wild, he usually has a bubble tea in one of his hands.

 

Facebook link:  http://www.facebook.com/msteelewrites

Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/msteelewrites/

Website link: http://www.mikesteeleonline.com

Buy Link : https://books2read.com/u/4Arye0

 

 

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GIVEAWAY:

Mike Steele will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.

 

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