The Husband Tree by Mary Connealy // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: The Husband Tree

Author: Mary Connealy

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 21, 2026

From bestselling author Mary Connealy comes a spirited Western romance filled with danger, determination, and unexpected love—a tale of a fierce widow rancher, a hardworking cowboy, and the family that brings them together. Perfect for fans of historical romance and strong heroines.

Belle Tanner has buried three husbands under the “Husband Tree” and managed her Montana ranch alone while raising four daughters. When she needs help with a dangerous cattle drive, she hires Silas Harden—a man who actually knows his way around cattle and horses. Unlike her previous husbands, Silas isn’t afraid of hard work, but Belle’s not about to let another man take charge of her ranch or her heart.

Silas never planned on falling for a widow with four daughters, especially one as independent as Belle. But as they face treacherous mountain passes, wolf attacks, and winter storms together, he discovers that what he thought was just another job might be his chance at a real family—if he can convince Belle to trust in love one more time.

With winter closing in and dangers mounting, Belle and Silas must learn to work together and trust in God’s plan. But can Belle let go of her iron control and let love lead? And can Silas prove he’s different from the husbands who came before?

A heartwarming story of faith, family, and finding love in the rugged Montana Territory.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

Belle Tanner is a tough rancher, a mother of three with one on the way, and three dead husbands in the ground. She doesn't think much of men having out-lived three lazy husbands. But one man could change her mind. 

A well-paced read, with a lot going on as it goes back and forth between two main story lines. Silas is a hardworking man, who honestly wins the trust of Belle's daughters, and feels protective towards them. It also continues to follow Wade from the previous book, as he helps Glowing Sun return to her people. There's a lot going on, as Belle has a lot of plate spinning, and I liked how Cassie and Red have befriended Wade, and how they encourage him in his new life. 

Overall, an entertaining read, with likable characters and an engaging plot. Humorous and fast-moving, with a romance that will win you over. Great interaction and a fun plot brought a smile to my face. Well worth the read. 

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

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist. She is the bestselling author of 75 books and novellas. She has over a million and a half books in print.

Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or find her at Petticoats & Pistols!

 

More from Mary

The Husband Tree remains the book I am asked about the most when I talk to readers.

Or, if I get asked, which is your favorite character…someone inevitably says Belle Tanner.

There’s something about that woman.

The title of the book is based on the tree where she’s buried three worthless husbands. After Anthony died falling off the roof…where he was hiding from work as usual, she’s tossing dirt on his face while vowing to God and her children to never marry again.

She’s taught her girls to work hard at her side, but her main lesson is to teach them to avoid men at all costs. A warning that doesn’t survive, but not for lack of effort on Belle’s part.

She’s the meanest good guy I’ve ever written, the most enduring ‘fiesty lady rancher’. Yet somehow, her REASONS for being mean are so well tuned, that she gets away with being a very hostile-to-men woman.

Not that I haven’t written plenty of feisty lady ranchers…in fact I love the type so much I have to fight putting one as the heroine in every book. But Belle is in a league of her own.

Silas Harden is also NOT interested in a woman. He’s been burned bad TWICE by women. One woman a betrayer, another a sneaking liar who stages a ‘compromising situation’ to force a marriage. He’s lost two ranches because of it. He wants a place of his own and he’s not risking letting a woman ruin things for him. It’s cost him too much.

But, much as she hates to admit she needs a man’s help, Belle’s going to lose her herd if she doesn’t get the cattle to market and there’s no one else to help but the wandering cowpoke, Silas.

Belle and her four daughters, including a diaper-wearing baby, need to punch one thousand head of cattle over the roughest trail in the whole world…not that Belle’s familiar with the whole world, but it’s a brutally hard stretch.

Off they go, both bristling, but soon enough they’re working so hard they’re too TIRED to hate each other.

And then here comes love. A man Belle can’t help but respect. A woman Silas can’t help but trust.

If they all survive this drive…both of them might just take a chance again, on love.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 28

Texas Book-aholic, July 29

For Him and My Family, July 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 31

Guild Master, August 1 (Author Interview)

Book Holds and Jello Molds, August 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 2

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 3

She Lives To Read, August 4

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

Fiction Book Lover, August 6 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 6

Book Looks by Lisa, August 7

Cover Lover Book Review, August 8

Labor Not in Vain, August 9

Holly’s Book Corner, August 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary 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.

https://gleam.io/GRmzP/the-husband-tree-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Bachelor Spy by Pepper Basham // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: The Bachelor Spy (A Freddie and Grace Mystery Book 5)

Author: Pepper Basham

Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical Fiction

Release Date: July, 2026

Spies Infiltrate Havensbooke Hall. . .and Another Mystery Adventure Begins

Stephen Blake’s life goal is to protect people, especially those closest to him, but war in 1914 England doesn’t follow any rules. When Blake is informed that a noted German spy may have taken up residence at Havensbrooke Hall—his cousin Lord Astley’s estate, which is being used as a convalescent war hospital—he’s sent there to uncover the plot.

Lady Grace Astley has become a force to be reckoned with while Frederick is out on the war front. With Havensbrooke as a hospital, she’s shocked by the devastation the war is bringing home; but ever hopeful, she is determined to help these weary soldiers find some relief. However, not everything is as it seems inside Havensbrooke. Precious items soon start disappearing. . .and not just the kind that are worth a lot of money.

Through a case of mistaken identity, a comedy of errors, a kidnapping, and a race for time within the crumbling subterranean passageways beneath Havensbrooke, can Blake and Gracie work together to root out the criminals, thieves, and spies before time runs out?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: 

Stephen Blake is back and working undercover to root out a German spy at Havensbrooke Hall. 

A fast-paced adventure of spies, family, friendship, and faith set in England 1914, during the first world war. Grace is happy to see her husband's cousin again and welcome him into their home that has become a hospital for the wounded. There is a lot going on, with a spy of unknown allegiance in their midst, and things going missing. Great interaction and dialogue throughout, with strong faith. 

I liked continuing to follow Freddie and Grace, as well as Stephen in this wonderful addition to the series. Cozy and fun, with a lot going on, and mysteries that keep you guessing. I liked seeing Grace and Stephen get to know each other better, and the chemistry between him and Evelyn. 

Overall, a fantastic read, with wonderful characters, themes of faith, adventure, spies, and intrigue. Highly recommend!

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

Prologue

May 7, 1915

Stephen Blake had been trailing the presumed spy most of the voyage—first to secure his target, and then. . .to strike. Every clue pointed to the fact that the gregarious businessman Donald Leaman was none other than Albert Stein, a German informant ferrying English war secrets straight to the fatherland.

Unfortunately, every opportunity Blake had found to confront the man had been thwarted: too many watchful eyes, too much pomp and luxury for a clean cornering. With the Lusitania’s transatlantic voyage ending in less than a day, his time to complete this mission was slipping away.

Worse, he couldn’t shake the feeling he was being followed himself. Only a limited few knew of his operation to uncover a ghostlike informant who’d used their “ordinary” position to gain extraordinary intelligence—from transfer stations, casualty clearing posts, even a general’s bunker at the Western Front. The spy had proven madden-ingly elusive, slipping through every trap British intelligence laid

with almost theatrical flair.

But what did they know? Stein was the spy’s last contact. And Blake was tasked with finding out what he knew.

The Lusitania was hardly Blake’s first ship, but certainly it was the grandest. It felt as though Claridge’s, the famous hotel in London, had taken to the sea, complete with its extravagant marble floors and its crystal chandeliers, with champagne in the air and ease all around. Just after luncheon, Stein had excused himself early and started down the grand staircase toward the lower decks. An odd choice for a first-class passenger, especially so near the end of the trip and with

his companions urging him to remain for cards.

So, of course, Blake followed.

Deck by deck, corridor by corridor, until the music and chatter faded into the deep measured thrum of the engines.

Occasionally, Stein cast a look behind him but never appeared concerned enough to stop his descent. This was certainly a planned meeting.

The elegance of the upper floors gave way to simpler decor, narrower corridors. Second-class accommodations. Stein stopped before a cabin door. His knock held an unnatural rhythm—three quick raps, a pause, two more. After only a beat of silence, a murmur from within responded.

Stein’s immediate whispered answer? “Octavia.” A code word, no doubt.

The door opened. Stein slipped inside, but before the door could click shut, Blake rushed soundlessly forward and caught it with his fingertips.

Perfect.

He released a self-satisfied grin and then pressed himself against the corridor wall, listening through the crack over the hum of the ship’s engine.

The cabin was small—voices carried easily in the confined space—and the faint scent of cigarette smoke drifted through the opening. “You’re late.” A man’s voice, crisp and impatient. Something about the cadence nagged at Blake’s memory, but he couldn’t place

1. English, certainly. Kentish?

Blake frowned. He could overpower Stein easily—the man was more socialite than combatant, the sort who’d probably never thrown a proper punch in his life. But this unknown fellow, clearly in charge and confident enough to smoke a cigarette while conducting treason? That suggested either experience or exceptional stupidity. Blake hoped for the latter but suspected the former.

“It was difficult to get away without raising suspicion,” Stein replied, his accent thickening into full German. “Blake is on this ship.”

Blake’s pulse quickened. So Stein knew he was being followed. “I know.” The other man’s tone didn’t waver. A long exhale

followed, as if he were breathing out smoke. “We’ve been watching him to ensure he didn’t wreck things.”

We? Who?

Blake’s mind raced through the passenger manifest, through his team members, through every face he’d seen on this voyage. That voice. . .

“But with that in mind, we need to move quickly,” the Englishman continued. “What do you have for me?”

A rustle of papers. “The Midnight Angel’s next assignment. She’s to embed herself in a convalescent hospital—but not in France this time. There is too much interest in her there.”

Blake’s breath caught. She was called the Midnight Angel? The informant they’d been hunting for months. And she was a woman.

“Italy, then?”

“Nein,” Stein answered simply. “A place much closer to your front door, mein Herr.”

England? A convalescent hospital in England?

“Perfect,” the Englishman murmured. “Wounded officers talk too freely around nurses they think are angels of mercy.”

“Clever, no?” Stein’s voice held a note of pride. “No one suspects the nurses. They’re invisible, really. Moving between stations, tending to generals and privates alike. She’s already proven invaluable.”

“This is excellent information, Stein.” A pause. “And you’ve given

it so freely. Too freely, I’m afraid.”

Blake froze. He knew that tone—the shift from curiosity to finality. The Englishman was finished with Stein. The German had served his purpose, been found wanting, and now. . .had become a liability.

He couldn’t wait any longer. Stein had to be taken alive—had to be questioned, catalogued, and wrung dry of every detail about the Midnight Angel and her network before—

He drew his revolver and pushed through the door. The scene materialized in a horrifying instant.

Stein stood near a narrow desk, documents scattered before him. And holding a gun already drawn, already aimed at Stein’s head with casual confidence, stood Evan Montgomery.

Blake’s breath squeezed closed in his throat.

Montgomery? His colleague. His friend. The man he’d trained with in Scotland, shared terrible army rations with in the trenches, trusted with his life on half a dozen missions across the Channel. The man whose sister Blake had been half in love with for six months but was far too professional to mention. The man who was, apparently, a traitor.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, July 30

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 30

Melissa’s Bookshelf, July 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 31

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 31

Texas Book-aholic, August 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 1

For Him and My Family, August 2

Book Holds and Jello Molds, August 2

Sylvan Musings, August 3

Jodie Wolfe, August 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 3

Where Faith and Books Meet, August 4

Connie’s History Classroom , August 4

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

The Vine and The Branch, August 5

Stories By Gina, August 6 (Author Interview)

Betti Mace, August 6

Mary Hake, August 6

Min Reads and Reviews, August 7

Wishful Endings, August 7

She Lives To Read, August 8

Blossoms and Blessings, August 8

Labor Not in Vain , August 9

Holly’s Book Corner, August 9

Lily’s Corner, August 10

Cover Lover Book Review, August 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 11

Pause for Tales, August 11

The Sacred Line, August 12

Devoted to Hope, August 12

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, August 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon e-Gift 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.

https://gleam.io/ovQ5J/the-bachelor-spy-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright // Review

My Review: 

A gritty story of a longing heart, crime, love, and obsession set in the Great Depression and inspired by Bonnie and Clyde.

 Beatrice has dreams of the stage and the bright lights of stardom, but reality is much less glamourous working as waitress. Scraping by and surviving heartbreak after heartbreak, until she meets Jack Turner who shares her hunger for more and sees her as a star. But their desperation turns to a life of organized crime, will Beatrice escape with her soul?

 Beatrice isn't an immediately likable protagonist; she has a large ego and tends to put herself first no matter the cost to others. But she has a longing to be loved, and as her friendship grows with Allie, her perspective begins to slowly change and being infamous loses its shimmer. I admire Allie for her true friendship towards Bea, even when she doesn't have much, she shares what she has, her faith is inspiring and a guiding light to Bea. While Jack is bright and charismatic some days and a thunderstorm of brooding emotions others, while also having a genuine element of humanity that was twisted for control.

 Overall, this novel follows Beatrice through the ups and downs over the years, her hurt and pain at meeting people who used the Bible to beat down others which hardened her heart. All the while God was still pursuing her, even in the most unlikely places and friendships. A powerful and gritty story, that was at time hard to read but had a satisfying message of faith and redemption. 

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

A Killer's Target by Dana R. Lynn // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Forensic photographer Leila Britton returns to her hometown and finds herself the target of the serial killer who killed her twin sister years before. 

Leila and her young daughter go into hiding with the Amish, along with Lt. Brett Talbot as they fight to stay one step ahead of the killer. Action packed and suspenseful, there is good relationship building and dialogue. I liked how Brett bonded with Leila's daughter, and how he stepped up to protect them. 

Engaging, and fast paced, I liked how the Amish babysitter welcomed them into her life, and how Leila and Brett's faith grows stronger through this ordeal. Thrilling suspense and strong faith. Definitely recommend!

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

The Pursuit of Character by Matthew Arbo // Review

My Review: 

In this book, Mr. Arbo explores virtue and goodness through the 7 virtues prudence, temperance, justice, fortitude, faith, hope and love. 

A slim book that dives deep into the topic of virtue. He shows how they have long been revered as honored character traits in the mind of classical thought through thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates, but are brought together into wholeness in Christianity. As well as talking about how to cultivate these virtues in ourselves. 

A thoughtful read, that goes deep. It made me sit and think more about things that I had never given much specific thought to in the past. A well put together read, that is worth taking the time to read. 

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

The Mystery of the Ancient Map: The Epic Battle by M.J. Thomas // Review

My Review: 

Mary, Peter and Hank set off on another adventure in their race against the evil collector. This time the map takes them to the Battle of Mount Tabor where they meet Jael, Deborah and Barack as they race against time to find the hidden message and complete their mission.

 A fast-paced adventure for young readers, with themes of trusting God for the victory. I also liked how they dealt with the more violent aspects of this story, with truth, but not explicitly on page, which I thought was clever and age-appropriate for the readers.

 Great for young readers gaining confidence, with fun illustrations. An exciting and engaging story. It's a great addition to the series and I'm excited to see what happens to Mary, Peter and Hank next!

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

When the Silence Breaks by Elizabeth Goddard // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Ex-CIA agent and intelligence analyst Sarah Ellison heads to the Cascade Mountains to the find answers to her brother's murder that have been evading them, after a deathbed confession sheds new light on the case. 

A thrilling fast paced adventure, that has Sarah and Ex Navy Seal, Ryder Goodwin fighting to stay ahead of the killer while surviving the elements deeps in the Cascade Mountains. Sarah is looking for answers, but she keeps she own secrets close to her chest. Ryder is hesitant to help her, as he has stopped guiding mountain tours, but when he sees her need, he steps up to help her. 

The story has great interaction and relationship building, full of suspense, as well as environmental dangers. It has an intricate plot full of twists and turns that kept me on my toes, with satisfying reveals, and relatable faith journeys. Highly engaging and satisfying read! Definitely recommend!

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

A Baby's Blessing for Boys / A Baby's Blessing for Girl's by Donna Wyland // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: A Baby’s Blessing for Boys/A Baby’s Blessing for Girls

Author: Donna Wyland

Genre: Nonfiction/Christian Prayer Book/Child’s Prayer Book

Release Date: November 30, 2025

The Perfect Gift for new parents, baptisms, and baby dedications. A Baby’s Blessing is a sweet book to guide parents, grandparents, and other caregivers to pray specific blessings over their child. This beautifully illustrated book leads people to pray a powerful prayer over the special children in their lives as they are lifted to God and Holy Spirit to bless and protect them each day.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

A beautiful prayer for a child, from newborn and up, with charming illustrations and written in lovely prose. 

The book comes in two versions that are identical except for the artwork, color schemes and pronouns used to differentiate between the version for girls or the version for boys. It makes for a thoughtful and heartfelt baby gift, that is sure to become a favorite nighttime prayer for your child. The words are simple, but profound. Showing a strong desire for the child to grow to know and follow God. 

Overall, a lovely book that makes a thoughtful gift for a new baby in your life or for someone you know, with words that will stick with them a lifetime. 

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

About the Author

Donna Wyland is an award-winning author, editor, and coach. Her picture book, Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts, won the 2024 Christian Indie Award, and ‘Twas the Night Before Jesus won the 2025 Illumination Book Award. Both Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts and ‘Twas the Night Before Jesus were Readers’ Choice Award Finalists. Her new nonfiction books, Last Best Year (2025 Golden Scroll Award) and A Guided Gratitude Journal are also available on Amazon. Donna resides with her husband in Southwest Florida.

 

 

 

More from Donna

Oh, the wonderful power of prayer! Recent years have taught us how much we need God to intervene to protect and save, guide and help us raise our children and grandchildren to be loving, courageous children of God. In this vein, God inspired me to write these precious books of prayer to pray over the special child/children in your life. With the opportunity to personalize the book by inscribing the baby’s name, birthdate, height, and weight, along with a photo; this book will become a keepsake for every parent who receives it. Give the gift of prayer to the new parents in your life and watch their child grow in grace and favor with God as they are prayed over each day.

Blog Stops

Labor Not in Vain, August 1

Simple Harvest Reads, August 2 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, August 3 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, August 4 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 4

Girls in White Dresses, August 5

Texas Book-aholic, August 6

Fiction Book Lover, August 7 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, August 8 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 9 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 10

Cover Lover Book Review, August 11

Books Less Travelled, August 12 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 13 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, August 14 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, August 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card a copy of one of the books!!

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

https://gleam.io/GCcrP/a-babys-blessing-for-boysa-babys-blessing-for-girls-celebration-tour-giveaway

On Living Stone by Heather Kaufman // Review

My Review: 

A highly compelling novel of Salome, the mother of James and John, as she watches the trajectory of their lives and her own change as they follow Jesus, whatever the cost.

Ms. Kaufman has outdone herself with this masterpiece; she makes her characters so compelling and raw, relatable in their humanity. Salome grew up in a difficult home with a grieving father; she struggles to fit in and comparing herself to the achievements of others. As she marries and becomes a mother to 2 sons, she still carries similar worries along with those of her son's futures. I liked seeing James and John as they might have been through the eyes of their mother, as well as Jesus and his earthly ministry. 

 Beautifully written, the author does an excellent job of establishing the context of the culture, I felt like I learned so much along the way. I liked how the story made me understand the fears and false hopes of the past, and how His disciples had counted the cost and stepped out in faith to follow Him. I think one of my favorite parts was seeing how so many people's lives were visibly changed by meeting Jesus, from those with a single encounter to his disciples, Salome and her family as well. 

 A powerful story of hope, forgiveness, and faith. Each of the stories in this series have touched my heart and inspired me, but this one has topped them all, and I don't know how Ms. Kaufman keeps doing it! A wonderful addition to the series, that stands strong on its own as well. A standout novel, and one of my favorite reads this year. Highly recommend!

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

Murder, Plainly Written by Mindy Steele // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Sadie Lynch is excited to start fresh after inheriting her Amish aunt's candle store in Amish country. But business is slow and the locals are not keen to frequent the shop of an Englisher. 

A little bit of a slower start as Sadie gets settled in her new home, and we meet many community members. I liked that there were a variety of people from different plain communities, and it was fun to meet the many different characters as Sadie learns more about her heritage, and finds new friends. I liked her friendship with Wanda and how they bond over writing. Wanda is a lovely woman, and I admired her for being honest about her disappointments, but not letting them hold her down.

A fun read that sets up the series well for future books, with a full cast of characters and secrets are revealed as Sadie gets to know her new community. I liked her growing friendship with August. 

Overall, an enjoyable read that builds as the story goes along. I liked that Sadie connected with people even though they lived their lives differently and bonded over their faith. A very enjoyable read with great characters and lovely community. I'm excited to read more in the series!

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