12.26.2023

The Secrets of Emberwild by Stephenia H. McGee // Review

My Review: 

Nora Fenton is determined to make her family's horse farm a success after the death of her father, but when horsetrainer Silas Cavallero comes to work with their horse he also brings questions that threaten the future of Emberwild. 

An engaging read from the beginning, with an intriguing set up. I especially loved all the horses and Nora's bond with her colt Arrow. 

This was a quick read, with steady pacing,  and likable characters. This was a pleasant read, though a bit predictable. It was fun learning more about harness racing, and I liked how horses brought Silas and Nora together. Good elements of historical romance, mystery, and faith. 

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

 *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.25.2023

All's Fair in Love and Christmas by Sarah Monzon // Review

My Review:

Utterly charming and heartfelt, this opposites-attract-workplace- romance was the perfect faith-filled read for Christmastime.

Probably my favorite distinctly Christmas-y read this year, this book has it all. It's a feel-good rom-com, with amazing main and supporting characters, full of heart, flirty, but solid themes of faith and trusting God with the unknown. 

Mackenzie was my favorite, she's a big-heart introverted heroine with a heart of gold, quiet yet observant she finds a way to bring Christmas to each person that she interacts with in a meaningful way. Jeremy is handsome and outgoing, likable, and able to laugh at himself as well. Behind it all he is an amazing "parental" to his niece and nephew, and I just loved him and Mackenzie together. 

Overall, a wonderful Christmas rom-com that was everything that I could ask for and more, filled with humor, faith, and heart. You won't want to miss another amazing book from Sarah Monzon!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3twqpgI   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.24.2023

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

 


About the Book

 


Book: Falling for a Real Cowboy

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Contemporary Christian Cowboy Romance

Release Date: November 21, 2023

She’s trying to resurrect her career. He’s sworn off women. Will this city-meets-country duo find love where they least expect it?

Dalton J. Vargas the fourth has sworn off love. Women are just a distraction that keep him from running his family’s multi-million-dollar guest ranch near Wickenburg, Arizona. After his father announces an early retirement, the full burden of the ranch rests on his shoulders. When a city-slicker romance author stays at the ranch, Dalton’s perfect world turns to chaos.

River Sloane’s last workplace romance novel flopped—big time. Now her publisher wants her to write a modern-day cowboy romance, which she has resisted for years. When her publisher sends her to a dude ranch in the middle of nowhere Arizona, she must learn about cowboys and ranching to get her career back on track. One hunky cowboy stirs her heart and unexpectedly becomes her muse.

Will she let herself fall in love with the real cowboy or will she return to the life she left behind? Will Dalton open his heart to a new, lasting love?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Lucie's Review: When her publisher gives her an ultimatum, River Sloane packs her bags and heads out west. 

Engaging with characters that you can cheer for all the way through, I liked that both Dalton and River come from very different backgrounds, but have had a hard time with love. I admired River for her willingness to jump in and try new things on the ranch. 

A fun, fresh premise, with a great setting and great characters. I liked that both Dalton and River are both people of faith, and have natural interactions that grow their relationship.

It was so fun getting to know the Vargas family, and I can't wait to read more books in the series! 

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 in the late 1990s, 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

Inspiration Behind the Vargas Ranch Series Brand

How many books about ranches and cowboys have you read, whether historical or contemporary and you wondered about their brand?

Hardly anyone describes the brand. Me either. In my historical series, I don’t think I’ve mentioned the brand for my ranch that appears in eleven books!

Well, for the Vargas Ranch Series, the brand plays a central role in describing both the family and their faith. In many of my series, I start with a theme verse, and the Vargas Ranch Series is no exception. When I read these verses in my morning devotion time, I knew this would be the anchor for the series.

With regard to the works of man,

by the word of your lips

I have avoided the ways of the violent.

My steps have held fast to your paths;

my feet have not slipped.

—Psalms 17:4-5 ESV

Then the family motto formed based on the second verse:  I do not deviate from the Lord’s plan.

Immediately, I latched onto the word “deviate” and how it might be represented in a brand: “dV8”. I sketched out the design, and then I had to back into how else the letters “d” and “V” might relate to the series.

 


Then next thing I knew, I was searching for Spanish last names beginning with a “V”. As soon as I saw Vargas, I knew it was the perfect name for my Arizonan ranching family. The idea to make all the men’s name begin with a “d” also took shape. I scanned through my running list of cowboy names and quickly settled on the five brothers’ names: Dalton, Dylan, Derin, Devon, and Drake.

Now, I could have probably stopped there, but I love developing a rich family history for series like this. So, I decided to set the founding of the ranch in 1952 with Dalton J. Vargas, Senior. His son, Junior, named his son, Dalton J. Vargas the third, and Diego Vargas. The third or “Tres”, is the father of the five sons in the series.

I’ve really enjoyed weaving the family’s “dV8” brand, family motto, and theme verses into the first book in the series. They will make an appearance in all five books. So, I’ll leave you with:

“I do not deviate from the Lord’s plan.”

Blessings, dear readers!

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, December 12

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, December 13 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 14

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, December 15 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 16

Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 17 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 18

A Reader’s Brain, December 19 (Author Interview)

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 19

Texas Book-aholic, December 20

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 21 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, December 22

For the Love of Literature, December 23 (Author Interview)

Labor Not in Vain, December 24

Holly’s Book Corner, December 25

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 gift card and a signed paperback copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/293d2/falling-for-a-real-cowboy-celebration-tour-giveaway

12.23.2023

You Make it Feel Like Christmas by Toni Shiloh // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Coming home for Christmas is the last thing that Starr wants to do, especially since it is for her sister's wedding to her ex-boyfriend. 

A quick fun read for Christmas, great for fans of the classic holiday romances, with some slightly over the top characters. Sometimes the drama felt like a little too much for me.  

Waylon is such a nice guy, and I liked getting to know him and see the relationship with Starr grow. Their banter was cute and enjoyable. I also liked the integration of faith, into the story as well.

Overall, a fun read with plenty of Hallmark charm. 

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


 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3RxQyDR   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.22.2023

The Teacher's Christmas Secret by Emma Miller // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A heartwarming Christmas romance, with a full cast of wonderful characters. 

Cora has dreamed of being a teacher for as long as she can remember, but the job is given to Tobit Lapp who is new to the community instead. But when he sustains an injury, she agrees to take over his teaching duties, but he is unwilling to let her take full control and insists on overseeing her work.

A enjoyable story with wonderful characters, great interaction and a believable plot. I really liked getting to know the other members of Cora's family, as well as seeing her big heart for others as she helps Tobit. 

Well written and engaging, the perfect quick read for Christmastime!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/41B6YQj   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

In Feast or Famine by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review: 

An engaging read, rich in historical detail, that brings to life the time of Joseph's influence in Egypt and his marriage to an Egyptian woman. 

A well written read, that imagines what might have been during Joseph's time in Egypt. I liked how the author really dove into the time period, as well as exploring his conflicts with the culture around him and even in his own marriage. Asenath's heart is softened as she gets to know Joseph, I liked that she was also vulnerable and open to learning more about his God. 

Definitely thought provoking and made me appreciate how he stayed true to his beliefs despite living in a culture that was counter. Well written and engaging, with strong themes of faith and forgiveness. 

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


 Buy it here: *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.21.2023

Snow Place Like Home by Lacey Baker // Review

My Review: 

After losing her job as an art curator in the big city, Ella returns home where she finds herself taking part in a Christmas tree auction alongside a high school friend. 

A sweet holiday romance, much in the vein of the beloved Hallmark movies that are popular this time of year. A quick read, with heartwarming themes of coming home, and rekindling faith. 

A sweet small town romance at Christmas time, though it did tend towards a more predictable formula. A quick easy read, clean, and heartwarming!


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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3NwLgqY   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.20.2023

Christmas Forevermore : A Christmas Romance Collection by Sally Britton, Sarah M. Eden, Ashtyn Newbold, and Karen Thornell // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A Family Christmas by Sally Britton 

Cyril Grant returns home for Christmas time, a little unsure if he will fit in with the family he hasn't seen in a while. But a little help from matchmaking family members, he may just find a home for his heart after all.

Engaging and sweet, I loved how the family had welcomed Jane into their lives, and treated her well despite her position. A charming Christmas romance. 

Christmas Forevermore by Sarah M. Eden

A matchmaker takes Minna Scofield on a journey of reflection, in this sweet friends to lovers romance. I loved the witty banter between Minna and Rupert, as well as the Dickensian twists!

Christmas at Cranfield by Ashtyn Newbold

Christmas to Christmas Hannah has always been drawn to Samuel, but their paths are pointed in different directions. A sweet story of love finding a way despite the seemingly impossible obstacles. 

A Thrill of Hope by Karen Thornell 

After losing her mother around Christmastime, Isabel hasn't had the heart to celebrate or try for another season. But a snowstorm brings her together with an unexpected person who may open her heart again to the possibilities. A charming read, with likable characters, great interaction, and a heartwarming plot. 


Overall, a wonderful collection of Christmas romances from the Regency Era sure to bring a smile to your face!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3Tu3Cg1 *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.19.2023

Defending the Witness by Sharee Stover // Review

Lucie's Review: 

 A fast paced suspense, that has Ayla thinking on her feet to stay one step ahead of the people who killed her uncle. 

An exciting read that kept me engaged and guessing, with strong likable characters. I liked that Chance had a strong team of co-workers who encouraged him in his journey of faith. A great adventure with a lot going on throughout. Destiny is an amazing and well trained professional K-9. 

Overall, an enjoyable read, filled with suspense, adventure, likable characters, and faith. Great for fans of K-9 suspense. 

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3tixeCz *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.18.2023

The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle by Daniel Petronelli, illustrated by Emily Pritchett // Celebrate Lit

 


About the Book

 


Book: The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle

Author: Daniel Petronelli

Genre: Religion & Spirituality, Holiday Celebration, Children’s Chapter Book, Inspirational, Action & Adventure

Release Date: October, 2021

In the small foothill village of Shiloh on a stormy Christmas Eve, a group of children find themselves lost in a powerful storm. When a chance encounter with a kind stranger presents itself, their faith is put to the test as they discover the true meaning of Christmas, learn valuable life lessons, and experience the transformative power of just one tiny seed: The Seed of Faith.

This unforgettable, multi-award winning story will inspire readers of all ages to believe in miracles and the unwavering presence of God in their lives.

 
 
Click here to get your copy!
 My Review: 

A heartwarming story, perfect to share with the whole family at Christmastime. 

Engaging and told in a straightforward and simple style, with a format that is great for young chapter book readers or would be great as a read aloud for the whole family. I also really enjoyed the accompanying illustrations that complimented the story well in their style and details. I appreciated the message of faith, and love for your fellow neighbor at Christmastime, which makes for a heartwarming read. 

I liked the themes of faith in hard times, as well as giving at Christmas time through the eyes of children. A wonderful story to share with your family during the holidays. 

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

About the Author



Dan Petronelli was born and raised in Brockton, Massachusetts. He currently divides his time with his wife between West Bridgewater, Massachusetts and Stuart, Florida.

He is a strong member of his local community and has served as a Christian worship leader where he led a large congregation in praise and worship songs, including two of his original songs: “ Walking in the Light” and “ Providence.”

Dan Petronelli participated in Smith’s Magazine’s Six-Word Memoir contest, and his memoir was selected and later published by HarperCollins.

Dan found a message in a bottle when he was a young boy tinkering on a rocky shoreline. It was a profound spiritual message that he has kept and still treasures today.

This inspired story was written as a cherished Christmas gift for his family, and it is his hope that the SEED OF FAITH will also bring joy and continue to grow in the hearts of readers around the world.

More from Dan

”The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle” is an inspiring story about the joy and blessings of faith.

I originally wrote this heartfelt story as a Christmas gift for my family, and it has since become a cherished tradition for us to read together on Christmas Eve. Encouraged by friends and relatives, I was inspired to share this story with a wider audience.

The book features numerous beautiful color illustrations by the talented artist Emily Pritchett.

At its core, this multi-award-winning tale focuses on finding courage during life’s most challenging moments and drawing strength from the Lord, knowing that He is always by your side.

Its captivating spiritual adventure unfolds as a small group of children finds themselves lost in a powerful storm on Christmas Eve, making it an engaging read for children.

This story glorifies the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ, not Santa Claus.

It illustrates the power of just one tiny seed of faith, showing that with God’s blessings, it can grow in the hearts and change the lives of all who believe.

My earnest hope is that “The Seed of Faith” will continue to take root and flourish in the hearts of readers around the world.

Planting a Seed of Faith in the hearts of our children—what greater gift could we possibly give?

Giveaway



To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Visa Gift Certificate, as signed hardcover copy of the book, and a Christmas Tree Grow Kit!!*

(* Grow your own Christmas Tree from seed!
Includes: Seeds, Growing medium, a mini-greenhouse, and detailed instructions)

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/29248/the-seed-of-faith-a-christmas-miracle-celebration-tour-giveaway

12.14.2023

Calling on the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund // Review

My Review: 

Determined to never marry and dedicate her life to the church, Finola Shanahan, is willing to do whatever it takes to ruin the match between herself and the dashing Riley Rafferty. 

A riveting romance, sparkling with flirtation, that was nearly impossible to put down. I loved getting to know the Shanahan family, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing more of Bellamy the matchmaker in the future! Riley is a likable man of action, always ready to come to the aid of those around him, with a natural gift for leadership. 

This was such a fun read, and over far too quickly, I loved the strong themes of faith and family throughout, as well as the flirty humor that had me grinning. A wonderful read from beginning to end, with a rich Irish culture and historical setting. 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. 

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3tg26U4 *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.13.2023

Defiant by Brandon Sanderson // Review

My Review: 

Wow, what a journey! Full of fire, courage, and adventure, in this coming of age saga, Spensa and her friends must fight to protect what they hold dear. 

I loved how this book explores the evolving dynamics in friendships and relationships, as Jorgen and Spensa rise in the ranks. I liked how we get to see how everyone has stepped up into their roles, as well as how much they have grown and adapted to the worlds that have opened up to them. 

Engaging, and filled with Sanderson's signature humor this was a fitting conclusion, that kept me engaged and excited for the spin off series!

I received a complimentary ecopy of this book. Opinions are my own!


 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3REW9t6 *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.12.2023

The Librarian's Journey by Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey, Marilyn Turk, Kathleen Y'Barbo // Review

Lucie's Review:

Love's Turning Page by Cynthia Hickey
Grace Billings takes a job as a pack horse librarian, and finds her heart captured by the people of the Ozarks and their thirst for learning. I loved Grace's heart for the children, and how she goes beyond the call of duty teaming up with the local schoolteacher. A wonderful read, with compelling characters, and a heroine that you can cheer for all the way through. 

In This Moment by Patty Smith Hall
Ruth Sims takes a job as a packhorse librarian, when she is laid off from nursing. I loved how she used her gifts and passion to help others helping them heal through body and soul. A sweet second chance romance, with great characters. 

Book Lady of the Bayou by Marilyn Turk
Librarian Lily Bee travels by boats and mule, delivering books to the people long the bayou. Her heart is captured by a little patron, Evie and her father. Lily is well prepared, and I loved the care that she took with packing her selections and supplies for her runs. A sweet story of finding hope and taking a chance on love. 

The Lawman and the Librarian by Kathleen Y'Barbo 
Lottie Trent finds herself in the middle of an investigation that brings her face to face with her former flame. An engaging story, with many moving parts, faith, humor, great interaction and a second chance at romance. 


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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/4ajVZPd *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.11.2023

Capturing Hope by Angela K. Couch // Celebrate Lit



About the Book


Book: Capturing Hope

Author: Angela K Couch

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction

Release Date: November, 2023

One step ahead of the Nazi’s. . .leaves Nadia little room for hope.

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.

After her father is murdered by Nazis and her mother flees to her native Germany, hope is something of which Nadia Roenne feels little—even if it is the meaning of her name. It isn’t until an American photographer sacrifices his escape from Poland to save a Jewish family, that she finds a purpose. David Reid is very familiar with failure, but when he is charged with getting Nadia safely out of Poland, he is determined to succeed—even if she works against him at every turn, putting other’s lives ahead of her own. While they race against the daily shower of bombs over Warsaw and the ever-nearing German army, Nadia grows used to risking her life. . .but dare she risk her heart?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

A compelling story of faith, family, and love in the face of the Nazi invasion of Poland. 

After her father is murdered, an American David Reid is tasked with getting Nadia Roenne out of Poland. Her compassionate heart puts her at odds with David's sense of duty and urgency, but gives her purpose. I liked how David found himself leaning more on his faith, and sharing it with Nadia as they fight to find a way out of Poland. 

I admired Nadia's heart for others, and how she is drawn to help families affected by the invasion, putting their needs before her own. 

Overall, a compelling read with strong characters, with storytelling that brought the bleak plight of those in Poland realistically to life. 

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

About the Author


To keep from freezing in the great white north, Angela K Couch cuddles under quilts with her laptop. Winning short story contests, being a semi-finalist in ACFW’s Genesis Contest, and a finalist in the 2016 International Digital Awards also helped warm her up. As a passionate believer in Christ, her faith permeates the stories she tells. Her martial arts training, experience with horses, and appreciation for good romance sneak in as well. When not writing, she stays fit (and toasty warm) by chasing after five munchkins.

 

 

More from Angela

When I first decided to set a story during the invasion of Poland, I was woefully unprepared for the pain and horror I found there. I wasn’t new to World War II and had just finished writing A Rose for the Resistance, which is set in France during the war and deals with the resistance and the Normandy invasion. The atrocities and genocide in Poland cut so much deeper.

In the early hours of September 1, 1939, the small town of Wielun, Poland, woke to a shower of bombs on their community. They did not house an army or warehouses, only homes and civilian businesses. Wielun was not the only town or village targeted—demonstrating the Nazi goal to spread fear and death. Six months earlier, Hitler had promised that if Poland did not bow to his wishes, he would wipe them off the map. Over the next month, and more so in the following six years, he came very close to succeeding.

For the full month of September 1939, while German armies rolled across the country, the city of Warsaw endured daily bombardment. Homes, workplaces, churches on Sunday morning, the Warsaw maternity hospital— nowhere was safe. On the tenth of September, someone recorded seventeen separate air raids over the city. I was moved to tears while viewing photographs of women and children who had been shot in the streets and fields by the bombers after they had dropped their payloads over the city.

No one came to their rescue.

Poland was abandoned by its allies to the Nazis.

So how do you write about all that and more while still trying to keep hope alive in the story and in the characters who have to live through such a frightening and demoralizing history?

I invite you to read Capturing Hope to find out.

Blog Stops

An Author’s Take, November 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 30

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 1

Lily’s Corner, December 1

Texas Book-aholic, December 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 3

For him and My Family, December 3

Betti Mace, December 4

Books You Can Feel Good About, December 4

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 5

Cover Lover Book Review, December 5

Alena Mentink, December 6

lakesidelivingsite, December 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 7

Blossoms and Blessings, December 7

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, December 8 (Author Interview)

Devoted to Hope, December 8

Bizwings Book Blog, December 9

Exploring the Written Word, December 9

Holly’s Book Corner, December 10

Pause for Tales, December 10

Connie’s History Classroom, December 11

Labor Not in Vain, December 11

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 12

Lights in a Dark World, December 12

Joy Suzanne Hunt, December 13

Books I’ve Read, December 13

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Angela is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon eGift card and copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2909b/capturing-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

12.08.2023

Shadows at Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Detective Trevor West is determined to find his sister, following the trail of clues that she left behind, and his best chance to find her is bush pilot Carrie James. 

An engaging and exciting read set in the Alaskan Bush, Trevor and Carrie are reluctant partners at first, but quickly come to realize that they need each other if they are to find the answers they are searching for. Action-packed with plenty of twists along the way that kept me guessing. 

An enjoyable adventure, with likable characters, this was a quick read with elements of faith as well. Definitely, excited 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. 

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3RrRriu   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

12.07.2023

Her Christmas Healing by Mindy Obenhaus // Just Read

Her Christmas Healing JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

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

About the Book

Her Christmas Healing Title: Her Christmas Healing 
Series: K-9 Companions #17; Hope Crossing #4 
Author: Love Inspired 
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 
Release Date: November 28, 2023 
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Christmas is around the corner…

And love might be right next door. 

Hope Crossing, Texas, is just what Jillian McKenna needs. Here, she can recover after a terrible attack…and create a home for her baby-to-be. But she also has a complication next door. She once saw a future with veterinarian Gabriel Vaughn—a future that feels impossible now. But with love, faith, a support dog and some Christmas spirit, maybe it’s not too late after all… 

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope. 


Lucie's Review: 

A powerful heart-tugging romance, about second chances and finding a forever family. 

Jillian's life is changed forever when she is attacked while out on a jog, she starts to rebuild her life with the help of her grandma, and a support dog that claims her as her own. Can she open her heart to the possibility of love too? 

Engaging from the start, my heart was touched by Jillian's plight. I thought that she handled all that she was put through with grace and wisdom. I absolutely adored Aggie, and how she sees Jillian's need and decides to help her out. Gabriel is a great guy, he doesn't understand at first, but he wants to understand what went wrong, and not give up if there is still hope. 

Overall, a touching and emotional read, with characters that capture your heart in this uplifting romance. I loved the solid faith, and great interaction between the characters. Plus, a truly amazing dog! 

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

More Books in Series

The Cowgirl's Redemption A Christmas Bargain Loving the Rancher's Children


About the Author

Mindy Obenhaus

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 the Hallmark Channel.

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


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of the book and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Her Christmas Healing JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight December 6, 2023 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on December 13, 2023. 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours