Tea with Elephants by Robin Jones Gunn // Review

Lucie's Review: 

 Fast friends since they were teenagers Fern and Lily get a chance to take the trip they dreamed of as teenagers, now in their thirties they jump at the chance to experience Africa. 

A heartfelt story of faith and friendship, I loved the African proverb at the start of each chapter, as well as the recipes. A lot has changed since they were teenagers, but they have remained friends. Despite their friendship it takes a while for them to open up about the difficult things they are each going through. 

Through Lily and Fern's eyes we get to see Africa, all the vibrant sights and experiences. They meet many friends along the way, and are able to encourage each other as well. It was good for them both to get away, slow down and open up to each other. 

Overall, a well written book with a character driven plot, about faith, friendship and a trip they'll never forget!

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

Burning Justice by Lisa Phillips // Just Reads

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Burning Justice by Lisa Phillips hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: Burning Justice 

Series: Chasing Fire: Alaska #6 

Author: Lisa Phillips 

Publisher: Sunrise Publishing 

Release Date: August 5, 2025 

Genre: Romantic Suspense

RESCUE. DANGER. DEVOTION.

THIS TIME, THEIR HEARTS ARE ON THE LINE. 

She's been searching for her father for fifteen years... 

Maria Sanchez has spent her entire career as a CIA operative searching for her father, and she’s not going to let some tough, arrogant former-soldier-turned-hotshot stand in her way. 

His life was upended on a single fateful mission... 

After being betrayed, branded a traitor, and declared dead, Kane Foster has a lot prove—and he’s not going to let his team—or his country—down. Even if he has to douse the sparks between him and his feisty teammate. Because some things are more important than love. 

Now someone tell that to his heart… 

As the smoke clears on this pulse-pounding series, buried truths will be uncovered and loyalties tested in this sizzling finale to the Chasing Alaska romantic suspense series.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Sunrise Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

Review: 

CIA agent Maria Sanchez knows there is more to her father's deadly work than meets the eye, but will her heart get in the way of her head? 

A satisfying conclusion to this six part series that brings together the whole team, as they fight against a extremist militia with designs worse than they ever imagined. An action packed suspense with a full cast of characters, and driven protagonists. Kane has a lot to prove, but he wants to help Maria and see if they can get to the bottom of the threats coming from the extremist group. I admired how Kane didn't want to let down his team, and his unwavering faith that God would see him through. 

Highly engaging read, with great reader payoff for reading the whole series. Gripping action suspense, great relationship building, with resounding faith. Kane and Maria are a great team and over the course of the book realize that two are better than one. Excellent conclusion to an amazing series!

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

More in this Series:

 

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About the Author

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 90 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). As a worship leader for Calvary Chapel churches in her local area, Lisa has discovered a love for mentoring new ministry members and youth worship musicians. Discover the exciting world of Last Chance County at www.lastchancecounty.com.

Connect with Lisa by visiting www.authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Burning Justice and a $10 gift card to the Sunrise Shop!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight July 30, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 6, 2025. 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.

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

The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White // Review

My Review: 

On opposite sides two souls bond over the power of words. 

Set in Paris during the Nazi occupation. Corrine has been carefully preserving a collection of banned books, passing covert messages among her students. Christian is a professor chosen by the Nazi's to identify and collect the banned titles from the libraries of Paris. On opposing sides, will their secrets bring them together?

Gripping WWIII fiction that explores the world of banned books and the power of ideas and words against tyranny. Ms. White's calculating prose packs a punch, exercising and displaying that power in the very fabric of this book. A compelling read that brings to life the frightening uncertainty of the German occupation, while showing the hope and resilience of the French people. 

Christian and Corrine are both faced with the choice of standing by or doing something, and I admired their courage in the face of danger. I liked the themes of integrity and the sanctity of human life, as well as endurance and hope. 

Overall, a compelling read, with strong characters that are likable and admirable, along with a message that packs a punch. It was very fascinating to learn about the banned book libraries and the early years of the war. A riveting read that brings a turning point in history to life!

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

Roseanna’s Shop (signed) | Baker Book House | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christian Book
 

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.roseannamwhite.com

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King of Kings // Movie Review // Giveaway

Inspired by Charles Dickens, The King of Kings features a father telling his son the greatest story ever told, and what begins as a bedtime tale becomes a life-changing journey. Through vivid imagination, the boy walks alongside Jesus, witnessing His miracles, facing His trials, and understanding His ultimate sacrifice. The King of Kings invites us to rediscover the enduring power of hope, love, and redemption through the eyes of a child.

Directed by Seong-Ho Jang and featuring an all-star voice cast—including Kenneth Branagh as Charles Dickens, Uma Thurman as Catherine Dickens, Pierce Brosnan as Pontius Pilate, Mark Hamill as King Herod, Roman Griffin Davis as Walter Dickens, Forest Whitaker as Peter, Ben Kingsley as High Priest Caiaphas, and Oscar Isaac as Jesus Christ —The King of Kings has captivated audiences worldwide. Inspired by Charles Dickens, the film follows a father and son as they embark on an imaginative journey through the life of Jesus, delivering a fresh and heartfelt take on the greatest story ever told.

Watch The King of Kings now on Angel.com or download the Angel App on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and other major platforms. FIND OUT MORE. 

Angel Studios has a growing slate of family-friendly and faith-driven content. You can stream more of their films and TV shows, along with comedy specials, and more, as well as be a part of shaping their future content. Join the Guild today!

My Review: After a frustrating day, Charles Dicken's tells his son the greatest story ever told in this animated film, based on his work The Life of Our Lord. 

A riveting and heartfelt film that captures the gravity and depth of Jesus's life and death in a way that draws in, and invites conversations. We see the life of Jesus through fresh eyes, as young Walter hears the story for the first time. The animation captures the emotions, telling the story in a way that conveys the seriousness but also welcomes in. I liked how many of the scenes are artfully handled to show what happened in a nonexplicit way. The modern translation of the script, might throw off a few and start some discussions, but I think that the main point is not lost. 

A heartfelt film full of powerful truths, with a clear gospel presentation and message of faith. Wonderful film for the whole family, about the life of Jesus and the love of a father. 

#KingofKingsMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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

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

The Lawyer and the Laundress by Christine Hill Suntz // Review

My Review:

A Canadian historical romance, two people from different positions find themselves inextricably bond together, can they find love too?

Sara O'Connor is a laundress with a secret. James Kinney is a widowed lawyer with a young daughter who has become very attached to the pretty laundress. 

A wholesome historical romance with likable characters, and a sweet little girl. Sara was hardworking and determined throughout. Evie is so sweet, and quick to pick up on things. James is a concerned father, doing his best to stay on top of all of his responsibilities. I liked that there was a strong theme of faith throughout as well and I liked learning more about Canada during that time period. 

Well written, with good storytelling skill, this book is easy to read and flows well with believable characters that pop off the page. A satisfying read by a debut author. 

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

First Love, Second Draft by Becca Kinzer // Review

My Review: 

A witty, and surprisingly heartfelt novel of second chances and faith in the face of unknowns. 

Recovering from an unfortunate horse accident Gracie Parker is under pressure to write another hit, but she hasn't had once since her divorce. Her well meaning nephew Matt, asks Gracie's ex, Noah, to help her out during her recovery, and with no other options she has no choice but to accept. 

Noah has been looking for a way to prove that he can be the man that Gracie needs and helping out during her recovery is just the break he needs while his baseball career is winding to a close. 

A second chance, close proximity rom-co, that doesn't shy away from faith. There is a full cast of characters, with a side story with Matt and Rachel that is super cute. There is a lot of snappy dialogue, and situational comedy, but also showing the reality that relationships are hard. 

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

An Inconvenient Letter by Julie Wright // Review

My Review: 

A sweet regency romance with a fun fake courtship trope, and plenty of heart. 

Marietta Stone has admired her best friend's brother for a long time, but with a misplaced fanciful letter falls into the wrong hands she finds her self agreeing to a fake courtship with the man in question's cousin.  

A charming regency romance with a winning heroine, who has ideas and a desire to truly be helpful to those around her. Marietta agrees to Gerard's scheme, but as time goes on they both find themselves enjoying each other's company more and more. This is a quick and fun read, with likable characters, and witty dialogue. Fake courtship is one of my favorite tropes, and I liked seeing it carried off so well. 

Overall, a charming read, with a likable, clean romance set in the regency era. I also really liked Marietta's sister, Anne, who is a quieter soul, but who encourages Marietta to go after what she wants. A satisfying read. 

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

Count the Nights by Stars by Michelle Shocklee // Review

My Review: 

A highly compelling dual-timeline story set in 1961 and 1897. 

In 1961 Audrey Whitfield works alongside her father at the Maxwell House Hotel in Nashville, when a longtime resident suffers a stroke, she is tasked with cleaning up her room and discovers secrets that go back to the Centennial Exposition in 1897.

Nashville, 1897, Priscilla Nichols is determined to stand firm and not marry the man her family has picked out for her, despite his advantageous connections. She meets Luca Moretti and his sister Gia, but their time enjoying the exposition is cut short when they discover a terrible secret tied to one of society's elite. 

A riveting story entwining the stories of two young women decades apart, with strong themes of faith, courage, determination, and love. Audrey is a faithful daughter and sister, she knows that most of the world doesn't understand her brother, but she loves him the same. I liked the relationship between her and her father, and how he is so honest with her seeing her as an adult. Jason is a welcome surprise in her life, and he is a super nice guy, always ready to lend a hand or be there for support, and I liked his easy going nature. Audrey is intrigued by Peaches' story, as she and Jason search for answers. 

Priscilla is passionate about helping others, and I admired her courage to stand up for what is right and offer a helping hand. I liked her big heart for others, and how she stood up for herself and others, especially since it wasn't easy. Luca is a devoted brother, and steadfast friend. I admired his dedication to seeing his sister safe and the way that he saw the world, encouraging Priscilla to always see the good. 

Overall, this was a powerful novel, with masterful storytelling told through two  young women looking for truth and answers. The gravity of the story sneaks up on you, and you don't realize how much you've taken the characters to heart until its too late. A well done story with a look at the shameful secrets of the past. I loved the complex characters, who are realistic and raw, as well as the strong core of faith. Highly recommend!

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

To Love a Beast by Karen Witemeyer // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: To Love a Beast (One Upon a Time in Texas Book One)

Author: Karen Witemeyer

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: June 10, 2025

Beauty & the Beast in 1800’s Texas.

Once known among New York’s elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. The treachery of a former admirer left his face and his spirit riddled with scars, so he hides himself away, his only companions a trio of trusted servants and an oversized dog. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses.

When an injury to her father jeopardizes the family’s book binding business, Callista Rosenfeld determines to fulfill the contract herself, and no insufferable client or woman-eating dog will deter her. Finding unlikely allies among Mr. Griffin’s staff, Callista secures her position and sets to work transforming the manor’s remarkable library. Her employer transforms as well, his ill-tempered growls subsiding to reveal a considerate, intellectual nature. Affection blooms as Callista and Everett discover hidden depths in each other, but the evil schemes of a vengeful hunter threaten to leave their love and their lives in tatters.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: 

An enchanting Texas romance with a fairy tale twist. One of my favorite stories comes to life in a small Texas town, in this wonderful retelling. 

Callista is determined to save her family's struggling book binding business, so despite her father's injury she takes a job working for a rich recluse with whom she finds common ground and shared love of books. Everett has been misunderstood and has chosen a life hidden away on a castle-like estate outside a small town in Texas. He is surrounded by his devoted servant who are very protective of him. 

Inspired by a beloved fairy tale this western romance blazes a path all its own, in this adventurous and compelling romance. I loved the full cast of characters, each with their own quirks that are a nod to the fairy tale. Endearing characters, with great interactions, and dialogue that build the story. There is also a strong resounding core of faith. 

Overall, a fantastic start to a new series, I honestly haven't met a book by Karen Witemeyer that I didn't love. I loved Everett and Callista, and how they slowly grew to trust and admire each other, forging a bond stronger than friendship. Such a well done story. Highly recommend!

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

About the Author

Voted #1 Readers’ Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Karen’s books have won numerous awards, including the prestigious Christy Award, Carol Award, and National Reader’s Choice Award. Karen is an avid cross-stitcher, and makes her home in Abilene, Texas with her husband. Learn more about Karen and her books at her website.

 

 

 

More from Karen

Having Fun with Character Names

I was a college student when the Disney animated adaptation of Beauty and the Beast released, and it instantly became my favorite fairy tale of all time. As a bookish young woman myself, I found Belle so relatable, and the rest of the cast delighted me as well. Throughout my Texas Ever After series and continuing with this new Once Upon a Time in Texas series, I’ve enjoyed paying homage to the Disney characters who inspired my western retellings. To Love a Beast is no different.

Let’s start with our beastly hero, Everett Griffin. The name Everett means “wild boar” and a griffin is a mythological beast with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle. Quite fitting for our Beast. Next is the lovely Callista Rosenfeld, a book binder and novel lover. Callista means “most beautiful,” perfect for our Beauty. Rosenfeld references the enchanted rose that plays such a key role in the fairy tale plot.

Next, we have our supporting cast. Mrs. Potter is our motherly housekeeper who invites Callista to tea on a regular basis. Our stuffy butler playing the role of Cogsworth is Mr. Timens. Notice the TIME in his name that pays homage to the clock-faced Disney character. Everett’s valet and best friend is Ray Lightfoot, who’s name plays with the candlestick image with both his first and last name.

I love having fun with my character names and giving them additional story meaning. You’ll find more Beauty and the Beast Easter eggs in my story as well. Those elements make the story so fun to write, and I hope you will find it incredibly fun to read as well.

Happy Reading!

~Karen

Blog Stops

Maureen’s Musings, June 27

Melissa’s Bookshelf, June 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 28

The Important Things in Life: God, Books, & Chocolate , June 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 29

Inspired by Fiction, June 29

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , June 30

Where Faith and Books Meet, June 30

Devoted Steps, July 1

Sylvan Reads, July 1

She Lives To Read, July 1

Texas Book-aholic, July 2

Blossoms and Blessings, July 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 3

Blogging With Carol, July 3

Stories By Gina, July 4 (Author Interview)

Labor Not in Vain, July 4

For Him and My Family, July 5

Holly’s Book Corner , July 5

Jeanette’s Thoughts, July 6

Jodie Wolfe, July 6

The Lit Lady, July 7

Wishful Endings, July 7

Bizwings Book Blog, July 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, July 8

Books You Can Feel Good About, July 9

Mary Hake, July 9

To Everything There Is A Season, July 10

Life Love Writing, July 10

Min Reads and Reviews, July 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize of an eBook copy of the book and Beauty & the Beast themed goodies!!

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/00adcf54249

Following the Clues by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: Following the Clues (Security Hounds Investigations Book Four)

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release date: May 27, 2024

A search-and-rescue mission
reveals a lethal secret.

After K-9 handler Kara Wolfe witnesses her childhood friend Beau O’Connor survive a targeted hit-and-run, she’s shocked to learn his mother’s missing. And Beau, who can no longer recognize familiar faces after an earlier attack, can’t shake the feeling these terrifying incidents are somehow connected. With the tracking skills of her blind bloodhound, Kara will help Beau locate his mother—but someone will do anything to sabotage their search. With the culprit on their trail, can they uncover a sinister plot…before their rescue mission turns into a fight for survival?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review:

Someone is hunting him and he can't remember their face, and now he must trust a friend from the past to find the truth. 

A fast paced read with plenty of mystery as Kara and Beau unravel what is behind the attack against Beau and his mother. I liked how they are both Christians and reconnect over the course of the story, finding more than just common ground. Kara is a K-9 handler with two talented dogs, one is a blind bloodhound with a super strong sense of smell, her other dog is very protective and guides her bloodhound. Engaging read with great character development and relationship building, with amazing dogs. I really liked how Beau had to learn to adapt to the challenges in the world around him, and how he finds ways compensate. 

Action packed read, with a suspenseful mystery and well-paced plot. I liked that we got to see other members of the K-9 team from previous books as well, but this book also works well as a stand alone. Fantastic story from beginning to end, highly recommend!

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

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and a Holt Medallion winner. She is the author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Revell and Poisoned Pen Press.

 

 

 

More from Dana

The only thing more fun that writing about bloodhounds, is adding in some colorful new canine characters who aren’t quite your standard tracking champions. In this book, you’ll get to know Phil who was introduced at the end of book #3. He’s a livestock protector who steps in as a guide for Millie the bloodhound when her vision becomes impaired. Phil takes his job VERY seriously. He flat out refuses to wear a vest, or play with toys, and he doesn’t particularly like people, but he will lay his life down to protect Millie and Kara Wolfe. It was so much fun having this unlikely hero rise to the challenge as Kara and her ex-boyfriend must root out a saboteur on the local fish hatchery property. The secret they unearth will shock you, I hope! Please enjoy the adventure with Millie, Phil, and the rest of the Wolfe pack!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 24

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 24

Bizwings Book Blog, June 25

Carla’s Book Crush, June 25

Bigreadersite, June 26

The Avid Reader, June 26

Vicky Sluiter, June 27

Texas Book-aholic, June 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 28

Devoted To Hope, June 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 29

Betti Mace, June 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 30

Labor Not in Vain, July 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 1

Stories By Gina, July 2 (Author Interview)

EmpowerMoms, July 2

Blogging With Carol, July 3

Because I said So – adventures in parenting, July 3

Simple Harvest Reads, July 4 (Guest Review from Donna)

For Him and My Family, July 4

Lily’s Corner, July 5

Blossoms and Blessings, July 5

Holly’s Book Corner, July 6

Pause for Tales, July 6

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, July 7

Lights in a Dark World, July 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $75 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/00adcf54246