Noble by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review: 

Promised as a bride to a rebel king, Princess Maakah of the Geshurites, finds herself drawn to David and his strange God. 

Maakah is a princess who was taught how to rule and raised to sit on a throne. When she meets David's family, she witnesses the power of Yaweh, and finds herself drawn in despite everything in her upbringing bring contradicted. She is young, knowledgeable about things beyond her years and experience, yet still untried and open to learn about David's God. I liked how the book shows David as a young warrior, building his renown, a man close to God, but still very much a human man prone to human failures. He is devoted to his people, and I liked also seeing flashes of his shepherd past in his style of leadership. 

An engaging read that asks many deep questions and finds Maakah and David grappling with their callings and how God provides through unconventional ways with blessing despite our shortfalls. This novel explores David's time in Hebron, and the making of a king. Rich in historical as well as cultural context, it was compelling to see Maakah encounter God through the lens of her pagan roots. 

Overall, a gripping read that deals well with difficult topics and shows God's great power and mercy to those who would call on His name. It also tackles the rise of King David and the shaping of his legacy, in a manner that makes you think about things in a new way. Engaging, and compelling Biblical fiction! 

 
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Winter's Chill by Morgan Busse // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Winter’s Chill (the Nordic Wars Book Two)

Author: Morgan L. Busse

Genre: Adult Fantasy

Release Date: August 5, 2025

Fighter. Emissary. Long-Lost Daughter.

Brighid has one mission as she returns to the north: to warn her people of the oath that binds them. But the mountains are treacherous, and snow comes early, leaving her on death’s doorstep—until she has an unexpected encounter that not only reveals a secret about her past, but also brings new allies into her life.

Meanwhile, the healer Kaeden must come to terms with the awakening of his Eldaran power. With winter approaching and the war on hold, he ventures to the White City to uncover his heritage. As he walks the ancient halls of his people’s birthplace, he discovers not all adversaries are across the battle line. He must navigate political opponents while searching for a way to stop those of his kind who have turned to the darkness. Yet even the bitterness of winter cannot keep Brighid and Kaeden apart. A connection has been forged between them, and their bond might be the one thing that could save the Nordic people and end the war.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

Picking up in the wake of the events of the previous book, Brighid and Kaeden go on their separate journeys discovering more about their unique gifts and come to terms with their origins, while on opposite sides of the fight. 

A fast paced read with good character development, and wonderful world building that adds to the story. I like that we get to dig more into Brighid's origins, and see Kaeden grow as the Truth Sayer. There is plenty going on, and you can tell that the pieces are falling into place for whatever will happen in the next book. This book answers many questions, but leave you with more, in true stepping stone book style. I liked that both Brighid and Kaeden make friends and grow more confident in who they are and their role in this war. 

Overall, this was an engaging read, and I was happy to revisit and catch up with the characters. Great world building and character growth, though it felt more like a bridge book between the first book and the third, with how it follows the two main characters on their separate journeys, hinting that they are bound together for some reason that is to be revealed. Wonderful addition to the series, that left me wanting to have the third book in hand immediately!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of multiple series including The Ravenwood Saga and Skyworld series. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and won the INSPY, Selah, and Carol Award for best in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.

 

 

 

More from Morgan

How I Created My Viking-Inspired World

World building. One of the foundational parts of writing a fantasy novel. When I began writing the Nordic Wars series, I wanted a setting that felt like the Viking era but fit the context of the story, to recreate the feel but not copy everything exactly. For example, there are no longboats, sailing, or pillaging. But there are warriors, an emphasis on honor, and the country is in the far north. When I build a world for my books, I use the history and culture of our own world and weave it together with my imagination to create a new realm in which my novel takes place.

Here are some examples of how I built this world.

Places. The country of Nordica is set in the cold north. For inspiration, I used my own home in the Pacific Northwest and my childhood in Montana. From towering mountains to deep snow, to massive forests to valleys of green, Nordica feels like a real place because I used real places to create it.

Words. I studied Nordic words and phrases, then created my own that “sounded” like them. Some examples are the leaders of the clans are called Hjars (after the jarls of Scandinavia), Til Val (a victory shout and chant that I borrowed from the phrase “Til Valhalla” from Norse mythology), and places like Folkvar and Udenhalla (both my own creations). I also found a fantasy name-generating site that helped me craft the names of places and people.

Lastly, I studied the Viking culture itself, including food, furniture, homes, occupations, hairstyles, clothing, etc… Then I used that knowledge for my own creations or drew directly from the source. Even the smallest details were either inspired by my research or a real part of the Viking life.

In the end, when readers step into the Nordic Wars series, I want them to feel like they’ve entered a time from the past, and yet wholly different. I want them to smell the smoke from a firepit, feel the furs across a bed of hay, see the mountains, and feel the bitter cold of winter. And when they finish the book, it feels like they’ve visited a real place.

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, August 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 10

For Him and My Family, August 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 12 (Spotlight)

Blogging with Carol, August 13

Texas Book-aholic, August 14

By the Book, August 15

Labor Not in Vain, August 16

To Everything There Is A Season, August 17

Wishful Endings, August 18

Simple Harvest Reads, August 19 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Hannahbandanarama, August 20

CeCe Reads and Sings, August 20

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, August 21

Guild Master, August 22 (Author Interview)

Romances of the Cross , August 22

Giveaway

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54275

Love and Order by Jennifer Uhlarik // Review

My Review: 

A western family drama told in three parts. 

The Braddock children were separated by the orphan train many years ago, now all adults this book follows each of the children in three consecutive connecting stories as they search for their family, while a serial killer is on the loose.  

An engaging read that follows three siblings, as they forge their way forward, fighting for justice and looking for answers along the way. Calliope (Callie) is a Pinkerton Detective is on a mission with fellow agent Joe Trenamen, on the trail of a killer, but she has her own reasons for being out west, and a face from the past in the worst possible place has her questioning her dreams of a family reunion. I liked how supportive Joe was of Callie, and how he helps her find the truth. 

Rion is a man with a mysterious past, on the hook for a crime he didn't commit, can he trust the help that is coming his way? I liked how he makes the best of a bad situation, and finds friends he can count on. 

Andi McGovern is a lawyer defending Rion in her first case. She is surprised to find a friend in the persecuting lawyer, a man who admires her wit and inspires her to to follow her dreams. 

A satisfying western read, filled with many twists and turns along the way. I liked the strong themes of faith and family. It was fun to see how it all came together, in this mystery, filled with old west action and sweet romance. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

No Stone Unturned by Jenelle Hovde // Review

My Review: 

Perfect for fans of Jane Austen inspired regency romance. 

When ancient artifacts are discovered in a neighbor's field vicar's daughter, Bridget Littleton, is thrilled at the idea of excavating long lost treasures. But her excitement puts her at odds with the young captain who has returned from military service to restore his ancestorial holdings. The discovery attracts all sorts of attention, not all of it good. Can Bridget and Rafe find common ground and find a future that honors the past? 

A regency read set in the countryside, with an engaging plot and mysterious characters who are not all they appear. It is a slow start at first, as we get to know the characters and their situations, as well as what is going on with the land disputes and the excavation. Bridget is passionate about ancient history and is very well read, she is a devoted daughter but struggles at times to have faith. I really liked her father, and how he doesn't push, but has a gentle word that often causes those around him to think. Rafe is a Darcy-life hero, who sees much of life in black and white. Until he meets Bridget, that is. He finds himself liking her, despite being at odds with her much of the time. 

Overall, this was a well written read, immersive and does a great job of capturing the time period. It picks up speed as the pieces fall together. I liked learning about archeology and the ancient civilizations. The themes of faith, and trusting God, were well done and very poignant. Wonderful read. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Highland Heist by Pepper Basham // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: The Highland Heist (A Freddie and Grace Mystery Book 4)

Author: Pepper Basham

Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical Fiction

Release Date: July, 2025

Grace Storms a Scottish Castle to Save her Sister

Lord Astley surprises his wife with a trip to America to see her family before they end their honeymoon adventures. But just as they arrive, they find Grace’s sister, Lillias, is the prime suspect in her husband’s murder. To add to the confusion a solicitor arrives to tell the sister’s they are needed in Scotland immediately to claim their mother’s inheritance.

The clock is ticking to clear Lillias of suspicion, but someone is determined to keep the sisters from reaching the Scottish Highlands. When Lillias disappears, Freddie and Grace race to Scotland, sure the answers will be found in a long-forgotten castle.

With a ghost from Frederick’s past leaving threatening clues along the way, the mysterious Mr. Kane waiting in the wings to grab the inheritance for himself, and an apparition haunting the infamous castle, Lord and Lady Astley must capture the castle, save Lillias, and not die in the process.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: 

A whirlwind of intrigue and family drama as Grace and Freddie race to find the answers and overcome the obstacles meant to foil their success. 

Grace and Freddie return for a visit to America to find Grace's family in much reduced circumstances, and her sister looking guilty in a murder. While they work to get to the bottom of that mystery, the sisters are mysteriously summoned to Scotland to collect and inheritance on their mother's side, only someone doesn't want them to get there. 

A fast-paced read with vibrant characters that brought a smile to my face. Filled with witty and humorous dialogue, husband and wife duo, Freddie and Grace are back to solve another mystery. I loved how Freddie always supports Grace's passions and interests, while also being a solid supporter in times of need. Another great addition to the series, with many familiar faces and new ones along the way. Could be read as a standalone, but not the most ideal way to enjoy this series. High adventure, mystery and romance, with a strong core of faith. Highly recommend this book and the entire series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroads and Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

 

Excerpt

June 23, 1914

Perfect husbands were rare, except perhaps in fiction, but Grace Percy, Countess of Astley, had married the real-life equivalent, she was certain.

“I still cannot believe this surprise, Frederick!” Grace’s shock had continued all the way from the harbor, where her dear husband had announced that they’d arrived in America instead of England. “I thought the terrain looked different than England, but I never suspected we’d go anywhere else except your beloved Havensbrooke.”

“Our beloved Havensbrooke, I hope?” he corrected, turning from his place in the front seat of the hired touring, next to a rather somber driver.

Her smile immediately responded. At nearly seven months married, Grace still found her thoughts paused on occasion at the idea of his English estate being her home. But how could she help it? They’d only lived in the estate a few months before they’d taken off on their honeymoon tour. But oh, what a delightful introduction to her new home, complete with a murder mystery and a ghost hunt.

She sighed. Married life certainly kept proving to be wonderfully exciting.

She sent him another grin before tipping her head out the window just enough to take in the familiar lane leading to her father’s house. “How did you even know where to go? Harrington is such a small place outside of Richmond, and I know I’ve never given you exact directions.”

His low chuckle warmed the already heated June air, skittering a familiar welcome of tickles up her bare neck. “I’ve written my own letters to your father, darling.” His voice, so smooth and English, carried such delicious tenderness that Grace turned to find him shooting a wink to their adopted daughter, Zahra.

Zahra’s lips tipped. She rarely showed great affection, but who could blame her? After losing her family and living on the streets of Cairo, the little girl still had plenty of healing to do. So every smile came extra special.

Poor Miss Cox, the young English maid Frederick had hired in Italy to accompany them through the remainder of their trip, blushed at Frederick’s wink and smile. After all the overt affection Grace lathered on her darling husband, it was a wonder Miss Cox hadn’t gotten used to it yet, but perhaps the trouble lay more in how very handsome her husband was.

Grace thought about that idea for a moment. She supposed if she wasn’t married to this wonderful man, she’d find herself a little awestruck too.

Truth be told, he was so handsome, he might fit the description of a dime-novel villain, but she was very glad fiction didn’t get it right on that score either.

“Besides, it may be a while before we can travel again.” He continued, turning back to face the front of the car. “I know it’s a few months earlier than we’d originally planned, but it seemed a waste not to take advantage of being at sea. And I know you’d love to see your family.”

Grace would have kissed his cheek if she hadn’t been sitting in the back seat of the touring with Zahra between her and Miss Cox. “You are the most wonderful man.” She turned to Zahra and Miss Cox. “Don’t you think so?”

Miss Cox’s eyes widened, and she quickly looked away, but Zahra’s grin stretched enough to show off her teeth. The simple white dress she wore brought out the depths of those endless gray-green eyes. Grace still couldn’t stop smiling at the very idea that the little girl belonged to her and Frederick now.

“He has all his hair and teeth.” Zahra nodded, the tiniest twinkle in her eyes alerted Grace that the little girl might be finding her humor. “That is a help.”

Frederick’s laugh burst out. “Indeed it is, Zahra. And I’m glad to still possess both of them.”

Grace studied his thick dark hair for a second longer, her fingers twitching to push through his locks, but the very idea could send poor Miss Cox through the car window. Grace drew in a deep breath to keep her show of admiration to a more appropriate public display and leaned toward Zahra. “The gardens at Rutledge House are lovely, Zahra. They were my mother’s gardens, and I’d often spend time with her there. Hopefully, when we return to our dear Havensbrooke”—she emphasized, sending her dear husband a look to ensure her noted her correction—“you and I and, perhaps even Lily, can work to restore those gardens together. Then we can make our own special place too. Gardens are very creative places in stories as well as in real life.”

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, July 30

The Sacred Line, July 30

Where Faith and Books Meet, July 30

Pens Pages & Pulses, July 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 31

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 1

Jodie Wolfe, August 1

Worthy2Read, August 1

Texas Book-aholic, August 2

Devoted To Hope, August 2

Book Looks by Lisa, August 3

For Him and My Family, August 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys , August 4

Min Reads and Reviews, August 4

Stories By Gina, August 4

Simple Harvest Reads, August 5 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Daysong Reflections, August 5

All-of-a-kind Mom, August 6

Blogging With Carol, August 6

Betti Mace, August 7

Melissa’s Bookshelf, August 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 8

Mary Hake, August 8

Blossoms and Blessings, August 9

Labor Not in Vain , August 9

Holly’s Book Corner, August 10

An Author’s Take, August 10

Lily’s CornerLily’s Corner, August 11

Cover Lover Book Review, August 11

She Lives To Read, August 12

Just Your Average reviews, August 12

Pause for Tales, August 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon eGift card and a print 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/00adcf54262

Testament // TV Show Review// Giveaway

The Book of Acts explosively reimagined in an alternate-modern era. A resurrection sparks a movement that turns the world upside down, spreading hope amid chaos. As the followers risk everything to preach the good news, the Temple races to silence them before the oppressive Imperium regime retaliates. But public miracles, unburied secrets, and fractured loyalties force both sides to confront the true cost of their choices. This powerful live-action series will challenge you, move you, and make you rethink what it means to truly follow Jesus. Set in a modern world, you'll connect with these stories and people like never before. 

 Testament is now streaming on Angel.com and the Angel App, available to all Angel Guild members.

Review: 

Episode 1: The first episode introduces the alternate modern day that the series is set in, showing the beginning tremors of world-changing grassroots revolution.  I think that the show creators did an excellent job of taking and staying true to the original text, while showing it in a modern context. You can see where they took great pains to stay true to the source material, while making it exciting and fresh, showing the great risks that the disciples and early apostles took to spread the good news. We are introduced to Stephen, a young man, who steps off the plotted path to follow Jesus, leaving everything behind. The first episode shows the bigger plot emerging as the characters are introduced, and the un-ignorable political tensions are shown in force. 

Episode 2: Picking up right where the previous episode left off, we are introduced to more of the characters and get a glimpse inside their day-to-day operations and see the weight of what they are up against with the Sanhedrin. I liked the portrayal of Saul, and how we delve more into the character of Peter and how he is haunted by his denial of Christ and how that shapes him. I liked that it doesn't shy away from the questioning and complexity by digging into the characters. 

Well done speculative action-drama series, manages to keep you on your toes even when you have an idea of the plot and the direction it may go. You can tell that every aspect of this series was thought out, from the color palette, music choices, the style with which it was filmed, as well as how we might have progressed into the modern age without the influence of Christ and the early church having happened yet. There are strong artistic choices made that add to the emphasis of the series and bring the world they created to life. I noticed the use of lighting and contrast really helps to set the tone. A full cast of very talented actors bring this thought-provoking story to life about the early church, set in the modern day. Appropriate for families with older children and teens. 

  #TestamentMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

 
Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel for providing a one-month Angel Guild membership for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Join the Guild and watch Testament today: http://angel.com/collide

Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard. US residents only please.

Final Approach by Lynette Eason // Review

Lucie's Review:  

Air Marshal Kristine Duncan and FBI special agent Andrew Ross are with their friends planning to spend time relaxing in the sun, but when they intercept a plane hijacking Kristine and Andrew know they are a long way from taking a vacation. 

A fast-paced suspense that keeps you on your toes and guessing. There is a lot going on, with one thing after another. Andrew and Kristine are a great team and get to know each other better over the course of the case. I liked that we see lots of familiar faces. There are a lot of questions and not a lot of answers, I liked the high stakes suspense and nonstop action. 

I also liked that Andrew and Kristine bonded over their commitment to their jobs and their Christian faith. Fantastic addition to the series, starts with a bang and doesn't slow down. Great characters, wonderful dialogue, and interaction that grows the relationship. Highly recommend. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Fierce Devotion by Laura Frantz // Review

My Review: 

Captivating story of two hearts tested and bound together by A Fierce Devotion. 

In this much-anticipated companion to The Seamstress of Acadie, Bleu Galant finally gets his story. Easy to read as a companion or as a standalone, it was fun to see familiar faces in the pages of this novel, as well as passing mentions of others that made me smile. This book beautifully brings to life early colonial life, and the storytelling with a graceful touch makes you want to linger over every sentence. 

I admired how Bleu gave Brielle the space to make her own decisions and showed his steadfast love for her in the things that he did. Brielle goes from being a caged bird to having the world at her feet, yet she stays true to herself, and I liked that she fought for what she wanted. 

A quietly riveting read that sneaks up on you when you aren't looking and grabs you by the heart. A fantastic addition to the world that Ms. Frantz has created, with endearing characters, and themes of faith. Highly satisfying read. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Perilous Tides by Elizabeth Goddard // Review

Lucie's Review: 

After witnessing a murder, Jo finds herself a target as well. Shortly after the father that she hasn't seen in years contacts her with a mysterious warning. 

A fast-paced read with great character developments, elements of danger and trying to get to the bottom of the targeting. Cole Mercer, a former Green Beret and Jo's ex, steps up to help her. Though they parted on unclear terms, he is determined to win her back and see her through this current storm.

There is a lot going on, and I liked how Cole and Jo reconnected while trying to figure out what was going on, and why Jo was a target. I liked that it dug into not just the action and present suspense, but also the characters and their relationships, like Jo and her father. 

Overall, a well written hard to put down read with fantastic characters and strong themes of faith. A perfect balance of romance and suspense!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano // Review

Lucie's Review: 

After the death of her father and the loss of their fortune, Drusilla, her sister Annaliese and their mother do the only things that makes sense to them. Take up residence in the castle left to them by their eccentric maiden aunt and start a finishing school. 

Drusilla is a capable young woman, noted in society for her proper manners. I was impressed with her quick thinking and head for business. There is a lot going on in this book, and I loved the full cast of colorful characters. Serafina is a wonderful friend with a love for weaponry, while Annaliese adores her ferrets. Rhenick is a friendly architect, he has a host of sisters and is always ready to help. 

Overall, such a fun read that I couldn't put down. There are strange things going on at the castle, and wonderfully lively characters that brought a smile to my face. I liked that Rhenick and Drusilla bonded over their shared faith, and how he admires the things about her that no one else notices.  A fun historical rom-com. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.