Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem // Review

My Review: 

Struggling to make ends meet in the grips of the Great Depression, Leisl Weiss, takes a job cloaked in mystery for Leon Lewis as a spy, unearthing a dangerous secret with chilling repercussions. 

 Well done historical novel that drew me in with it's compelling characters and heart tugging storyline, filled with tension and suspense along the way. Leisl is a devoted mother, working hard to support her 2 children, mother, and brother after the disappearance of her husband, and I admired her determination to see it through, as well as her quick thinking. 

I liked how Thirteen was shadowy at first, and how we slowly get to know him as the story progresses. 

Overall, a story rich in history with excellent characters, a riveting plot, with gripping suspense. A highly satisfying read!

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

The Cowboy's Christmas Treasures by Jill Kemerer // Just Read

Lucie's Review:

Dean McCaffrey returns home to take the reigns of his father's contracting business, but he holds onto a paralyzing secret.

Dean picks up where his dad left off with remodeling Brooke's home, her two-year-old twin girls take a shine to him. Brooke is a widowed single mom, worried that her health will keep her from caring for her daughters. Dean admires Brooke for her devotion to her daughters, and he offers to help her when he can, and they connect over their shared faith and giving God the things they can't control. 

Megan and Alice are so adorable, and they love being around Dean. A heartwarming second chance romance, with strong faith, themes of new starts and trusting God. I liked how he reconnected with his father, and his small town roots. Dean and Brooke make a good team, and I liked seeing them work together.  Highly recommend this Christmas western romance! 

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

CSB Grace Bible for Kids // Giveaway and Review

Help every kid experience the truth of God's Word with the CSB Grace Bible for Kids. 

 Created in partnership with Holman Bibles, 2K/DENMARK and Cambridge University, the CSB Grace Bible for Kids is designed to enhance readability for kids with all levels and varieties of dyslexia and other reading challenges. 

 The CSB Grace Bible for Kids features innovative and academically tested typeface, layout, and design principles. These principles include distinct letter forms and added space between letters, words, lines, and paragraphs. 

 Dyslexia shouldn’t keep kids from reading the Bible. And now, it doesn’t have to! 

 Order your copy of the CSB Grace Bible for Kids today! 

 Learn more at CSBGraceBibles.com 

 Also available, Grace Bible for Adults! Shop for the entire family at holmangiftguide.com

My Review: 

Made with children in mind, this brightly colored Bible instantly caught my eye, impressing me with the thoughtfulness with which it was constructed. 

When I first saw this Bible advertised, I instantly thought, "What a great idea!" Printed using a special font to increase readability, as well as a size 11 type, with 40 colorful inserts with book summaries, guides, maps, and themed reference lists, it is inviting from the get go. Using the Christian Standard Bible translation, which prioritizes accuracy and readability, it is a perfect fit for elementary age and beyond into adulthood. I especially liked the emphasis on connecting the readers to the people, themes, and context of the Bible, throughout the inserts as well as with the appendix that include a cross reference list that connect the OT quotes in the NT to the original text in the OT. I will note that it took time for me to get used to the book chapter indicators being at the bottom of the page instead of the top as I am used to, so navigating took some adjusting on my part. 

But that's not all, it also comes with 10 colored overlays in various colors to help readers with dyslexia process the text better, there are options to play around with and find what works best for them. 

I could not be more impressed with this Bible, the presentation is excellent, with a wonderful understanding of it's target audience, and great design throughout. Excellent choice for a full text Bible for the young person in your life!

 #GraceKidsBibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @christianstandardbible @bhpub 

 Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

 Giveaway: 1 copy of CSB Grace Bible for Kids (Note: This is limited to US winners only).

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The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar // Review

My Review: 

An immersive novel that brings Queen Esther's Court to life through the eyes of a talented cook, kind physician, and the queen herself. 

Beautifully written, compelling, with characters that captured my heart. Roxannah grew up hiding in the shadow of her father's cruel ways, but her talent for flavor may be her family's only hope after her father leaves them destitute. I admired her determination, and her loyalty, as she works to prove her self in the royal kitchens. I especially liked her gentle natured way of winning others with honesty and kindness. 

A richly woven novel with evocative descriptions and an attention to detail that brings the story to life. I loved how the novel was told in the midst of things, as well as from memory looking back, which added a depth of personality to the storytelling, and a unique touch. I loved the fresh take on one of the Old Testament's most beloved stories, as the author draws from extensive research, and historical details to vibrantly bring the court to life. I enjoyed the themes of standing up to your enemies in the face of opposition, something that sounds good, but in reality is much harder to practice!

Overall, a riveting and compelling tale that will grab you by the heartstrings, and have you hanging on to find out what happens next, as Queen Esther's story is told through fresh eyes, with enduring themes of forgiveness, faith, and facing your fears. 

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

Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3ZA4PWr 

Falling for a Smart Cowboy by Karen Baney // Celebrate Lit

 

Book: Falling for a Smart Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 4)

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Contemporary Christian Cowboy Romance

Release date: June 25, 2024

About the Book:

She’s on a mission to bring orphaned children hope. He wants off his family’s ranch for good. Will they survive his shocking family secrets?

Devon Vargas longs to be more than just a cowboy. After finishing his teaching degree, he plans to leave his family’s guest ranch for good. Between his growing affection for the new children’s program director and a huge family secret revealed, he second guesses everything about his life.

Raina Crawford lost her parents at a young age. Through the grace of God, she survived life in the foster system. She desperately wants to bring children the life-changing faith that gave her hope. The job at Vargas Ranch was supposed to be a steppingstone. Except she’s losing her heart to the smart, ambitious cowboy bent on leaving his family’s ranch—and her—behind.

Will Raina finally find the family she’s always wanted? Will family secrets unravel his new dreams? Will those same secrets tear them apart?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A heartwarming romance, with likable and compelling characters. 

Devon Vargas is looking at a future beyond the Vargas Ranch, when he discovers a secret that rocks his foundation. He enjoys working with kids and is pursuing a job in teaching. Raina grew up in foster care, and is passionate about advocating for children. I liked how Devon and Raina bonded over their passion for helping children, and shared faith. Devon and Raina both struggled through things, but were there for each other throughout. I really liked Devon's parents and how they supported him in trying a new career. 

I liked that Raina was passionate about helping children, she and Devon were a good team. This was a great addition to the series, and I liked learning more about the fabric of the Vargas family and their history. 

Overall, a wonderful addition to the series with strong faith, great interaction, and compelling characters. A highly enjoyable read!

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

About the Author

Karen Baney is passionate about writing stories full of flawed characters. She enjoys weaving together stories of second chances, redemption, and overcoming personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, she loves researching the state’s history and finding ways to seamlessly incorporate real history and real settings into her novels. In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry.

Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. Both Jim and Karen are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

More from Karen

Big Family Drama

I love writing big family drama in my novels! It provides such great material for the relationship between characters.

Part of this comes from my family’s drama. My mom was the youngest of eight kids, making my extended family huge. I remember going to the Independence Day family reunions as a kid. It was both fun and a little intimidating. Most of my cousins were adults by the time I was a tweener. So, my siblings and I tended to hangout with my “oops!” cousin since we were only a few years apart.

And boy, did we have drama! There was the aunt who seemed to be offended and left early year. Someone always ended up injured, but only once do I remember an ambulance showing up. There were cliques and turf wars and so much more.

As an adult, though I’ve rarely been able to fly clear across the country to see my extended family, the drama of my husband’s big family serves as inspiration too. He is the oldest of five kids. My first introduction to his large family was at his sister’s wedding. I had no idea what I was getting into. We’d only been dating for about six weeks. Everyone kept pushing me to join the family photos, and I kept trying to gracefully get out of the pictures. I didn’t want him to regret having me in the pictures if we broke up. In the end, my hubby and I outlasted that marriage.

In Falling for a Smart Cowboy, I introduce a new character to the series, Raina Crawford. She was orphaned as a young girl and has longed for a forever family, even into adulthood. Devon Vargas, the fourth out of five sons, learns a family secret that makes him want to avoid his large family. I loved writing this juxtaposition between Raina and Devon over family relationships. It helps each of them see a new perspective. It was also fun writing new friendships for Raina—even if all the friendships tied to Devon’s family. My experience with both my family and being a newbie to my husband’s family provided inspiration for both Raina’s and Devon’s characters.

If you like big family drama, the Vargas Ranch Series provides it in spades. Enjoy!

Blog Stops

Stories By Gina, November 20 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, November 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 22

Guild Master, November 23 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, November 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 25

Denise L. Barela, November 26 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, November 27

Artistic Nobody, November 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Simple Harvest Reads, November 29

For Him and My Family, November 30

Fiction Book Lover, December 1 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 1

Labor Not in Vain, December 2

Back Porch Reads, December 3 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed 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/00adcf54103

Mistletoe Season : Three Christmas Stories by Sheila Roberts, Kathleen Fuller, and Pepper Basham // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Return to Mistletoe by Kathleen Fuller

Emmy never married, but she raised an adopted daughter all on her own. Now her daughter is grown, and a chance encounter with a familiar face, has her wondering if love didn't pass her by after all. 

A touching tale with a sweet, sweep you off your feet romance. I found it even more enjoyable because Emmy is a woman who has never been in love, and placed raising her daughter before everything else, thinking love had passed her by. Kieran is a thoughtful man, and I liked how Emmy's daughter encourages her to take a leap of faith. Well done read!

The Mistletoe Prince by Pepper Basham 

Prince Arran St. Clare is serving his penance for his wild ways, working with Luke Edgewood in North Carolina, and helping them pull together the Christmas fundraiser. While there he meets Charlotte, Luke's cousin and coworker at his contractor business, a brilliant young woman who doesn't see how wonderful she is. 

A heartwarming Christmas fairy tale set in small town North Carolina, I liked the interaction between Charlotte and Arran, as well as their shared foundation of faith. A charming romance, with witty banter, redemption arc, and a heartfelt love story. A wonderful bonus to the beloved Skymar series from Pepper Basham. 

Say No to Mistletoe by Sheila Roberts

Romance writer Hailey Fairchild has never had good luck with mistletoe kisses, and each one has lead to disaster. Back home for Christmas she is doing her best to avoid her first mistletoe disaster, Carwyn Davies, high school jock, now a high school principle. 

A heartwarming and hilarious, first person POV rom-com, with a plucky heroine, and a dashing hero there when she needs him most. Great chemistry, and a cast of colorful characters. 

Overall, a wonderful collection of heartwarming romances, sure to put you in the mood for the holiday season!

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

Rediscovering Christmas by Mindy Obenhaus // Review

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Rediscovering Christmas by Mindy Obenhaus hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Rediscovering Christmas
Series: Hope Crossing #6 
Author: Mindy Obenhaus 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: November 26, 2024 
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance 

She feels she’s lost everything… 

Will love give her hope? 

When a wildfire destroys her home, widowed schoolteacher Tori Stallings finds herself unexpectedly living with her mother- and brother-in-law—and struggling with her faith. With everything Tori owns consumed by the blaze, Micah vows to help his late brother’s wife and son rebuild their lives. The two of them have always been friends, but living under the same roof has their friendship turning into something more. Can love bloom amid tragic loss and shaken beliefs, and give them a fresh start for Christmas?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Lucie's Review: Return to Hope's Crossing with this heartwarming second chance holiday romance. 

Tori Stallings and her son, Aiden, find themselves living with her late husband's family after losing their home in a fire. But the close proximity brings up new feelings between old friends, as she and her late husband's brother, Micah, navigate their growing attraction. Tori is a wonderful teacher and mother, she is devoted to her son, and wants the best for him. I liked the solid friendship between Micah and Tori, and how he was there for her and her son so many time throughout the years. 

Tori has been through a lot in the last few years, and the hard times have been hard on her faith. I liked how the book has a strong message of trusting one stronger than yourself in times of trial. Micah is great with Aiden, and I liked how he is quick to lend a hand when he can. 

A heart touching read, with great relationship building, strong family bonds, faith, and hope in the midst of loss. Definitely recommend!

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

More Books in Series:

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About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching heartwarming romance movies.

Connect with Mindy visiting mindyobenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Rediscovering Christmas and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight November 25, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on December 2, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

To Choose the Longshot by Lisa M. Prysock // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: To Choose the Longshot

Author: Lisa M. Prysock

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: November 5, 2024

In a world where wealth and status reign, can true love prevail?

Miss Delia Lyndon, a young woman born into the prestigious Spencer-Lyndon family, is initially enamored with Thaddeus, the son of a prominent local stable owner, when he begins vying for her hand in marriage. She is keenly aware of how a union between the two families would seal their status as one of the most beloved couples from Lexington. However, when Jake, a handsome and charming newcomer, arrives on the scene, he catches her attention, casting doubts and fears in Delia’s heart. Torn between two suitors, Delia must navigate societal expectations, family pressure, and her own desires. Will she choose the man who seemingly has it all – wealth, charm, and a shared background in Kentucky’s elite circles – or will she follow her heart to the humble yet captivating Jake?

Jake Williams is determined to prove his worth in the competitive world of horse racing. Despite his humble beginnings as a farmer, he refuses to be intimidated by his rival’s malicious attempts to sabotage his chances, both on the racetrack and in winning Delia’s affections. With his trusted steed, Horizon, by his side, Jake faces each challenge head-on, guided by his unwavering faith.

When mysterious events begin occurring leading up to the annual Phoenix Stakes horse race, Delia must look beyond appearances and uncover the truth that lies beneath.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

Expected to marry into money, Delia can't help but be drawn to the newcomer from humble beginnings. 

Brought up in horseracing royalty, Delia Lyndon is expected to marry the obvious choice. She is a talented young woman, and I liked how she does a great job with Jake's young charges. Jake is a relative newcomer to the world of horse racing, and now guardian to his young nieces. I admired his devotion to family, and commitment to integrity. Delia and Jake make a great team, and I liked how well they work together to solve the mystery and spend time with the children. 

An engaging and well written read, with great characters, and great plot. I liked the elements of mystery, faith, and romance, along with adorable children! A well rounded novel, well worth reading!

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

About the Author

Lisa M. Prysock is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes both Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Christian Romance books—”Romance with a Dash of Food, Fashion, Faith, & Fun.” She writes both traditionally and indie published novels.

Kentucky inspires her writing and is home. Happily married to her husband of more than 24 years, she homeschooled two of their five children, now grown. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cross stitch, crochet, sew, scrapbook, read, swim, dance, take walks, travel, explore historical homes, garden, cook for her family, learn to play the piano and violin, and read great books.

 

More from Lisa

Hello Celebrate Lit Friends and Readers! I’m back to share a looksie at Book 2 from Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age. I’ve really enjoyed my deep dive into all things Kentucky Derby and the world of horseracing in To Choose the Longshot.

Most of us have heard of Churchill Downs and Lexington’s Keeneland. But before Keeneland was the Lexington Association Racetrack. The annual spring race generally opened each year on that course with a featured race known as the Phoenix Stakes. It dates as far back in history as 1831! You can take a peek at the fascinating horse names of all the winners from 1831 to 2012, here. Of course, I’ve fictionalized names of winners and many events around the races in my series, but it’s fun to peek at real-life history when crafting our stories.

Leading up to and through the Gilded Age, the time period and setting of this series, the Phoenix race was generally sponsored by the Phoenix Hotel in Lexington. And more than Kentucky horseracing history, in Book 2, readers will get to come along for a glimpse at another course located in Baltimore, Maryland when the story takes our main characters to Pimlico. They referred to this track as the Old Hilltop in the early days of American horseracing history.

And atop Pimlico sits the famed weathervane. Did you know that painting the Preakness Stakes weathervane is a grand Pimlico tradition dating to 1909? The vane style is unique, commissioned by the Maryland Jockey Club, bearing the shape of a thoroughbred and jockey ever since the original arrow-shaped one was struck down by lightning. The new vane was christened by the colors of the silks carried by that year’s winner, Effendi.

I had a great deal of fun writing To Choose the Longshot starting with the very first page. The novel opens with a runaway bride! It’s always a wonder what makes a bride runaway, and my imagination went to work at once creating the situation that causes this bride so much consternation.

Readers get to learn more about Veronica’s sister in Book 2, Miss Delaney Lyndon. Everyone calls the shy and demure middle sister, Delia. And all of Lexington expects one of the Lyndon sisters to marry into the Sullivan family, since these two families are “Kentucky horseracing royalty.” But who will Delia choose to marry? Will she marry her handsome, wealthy, and daring beau, Thaddeus Sullivan, or will a rugged newcomer and underdog in their midst from the Adirondacks, Jake Williams, turn her head?

I cannot fail to mention that the beloved character of Aunt Mae from Book 1 makes an appearance in Book 2. She certainly has her hands full attempting to help Delia reach a decision about who she should marry, knowing it will impact the future of Velvet Brooks Farm for generations to come. But if anyone can help steer Delia to a decision, it’s Aunt Mae. As our heroine grapples with perceptions and tries to balance expectations with what’s in her heart, find out what happens next with a deeper look at the world of horseracing, sure to give horse enthusiasts plenty to cheer about.

Happy reading!

Blessings!

Lisa

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 19

lakesdielivingsite, November 20

Holly’s Book Corner, November 20

For Him and My Family, November 21

Texas Book-aholic, November 22

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 24

Labor Not in Vain, November 25

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 27

Stories By Gina, November 28 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, November 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29

Books You Can Feel Good About, November 30

Simple Harvest Reads, December 1 (Guest Review from Donna)

Pause for Tales, December 2

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lisa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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/00adcf54102

Cloverton Charade by Sarah Ladd // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Approached by Cloverton's former mistress to evaluate a private collection, Alicia Brannon finds herself out of her depth at a weeks long house party when she catches the eye of Lucas Avery a antiquities purveyor, and together they must unravel the strange goings on at Cloverton. 

A little confusing in the beginning with all the social and family connections to straighten out, but it quickly pulled me in with the intriguing plot and likable main characters. I especially appreciated the middle working class main characters in a regency setting, which is isn't super common in the genre. Likeable protagonists, and an engaging plot, with plenty going on. 

Overall, an enjoyable read, with great characters, making for a good clean romance. 

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

Light of the World Trailer

Light of the Word, a brand new animated film about the life of Jesus on earth, made for the whole family to enjoy! Hand drawn by skilled animators to capture all the things in 2D animation that are distinctly human. Find out more online: https://lightoftheworld.com/

It’s 30 AD and everyone is expectantly awaiting the coming Messiah. While Jesus isn’t exactly what they imagined, there is something special about this man. Soon, John, James, Andrew, Peter, and others begin to follow Jesus on an unexpected adventure. This beautifully animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his beloved young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today!

LIGHT OF THE WORLD releases in theaters September 5, 2025.