For a Lifetime by Gabrielle Meyer // Review

My Review: 

A riveting split time novel. Twins Hope and Grace have their lives split between 1692 and 1912, falling asleep in one century and waking in another. 

A brilliant historical time split/time travel novel that juxtaposes the freedoms and innovations on the horizons in 1912 with the strictness and fear of the Puritans in Salem 1692 during the terrible witch trials. The choice they must make at age 25 seems clear, but events beyond their control have the sisters question everything they thought they knew. 

A masterfully told story, full of tension, and tied together with faith. Grace is the quieter of the two, used to following in her sister's footsteps in both lifetimes. Meanwhile, Hope is the fearless leader, taking to the skies in 1912 as a female aviator. This book does an amazing job of showing the weight such a choice between two lives, carries, while showing the only One we can hold onto as an anchor in the midst of such turmoil. I liked how the story goes back and forth between the two sisters, and how they each have a unique story arc, and strong character development throughout. Wonderful world building, strong supporting characters in this fantastic novel. Highly recommend. 

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

Summerhaven by Tiffany Odekirk // Review

My Review: 

Hannah Kent has loved Oliver Jennings since she was a girl, but now they are adults and things at Summerhaven are not quite as she remembers and Oliver's attentions are spent elsewhere. Hannah strikes a mutually beneficial with Oliver's older brother Damon, to fake a courtship. 

A well rounded regency era romance, with clean content and likable protagonists. Great dialogue and tension throughout, relationship building interactions, and a wonderful mashup of all the best romance novel tropes. I liked how Damon thoughtfully was looking out for Hannah, and how he wants to do what is best for everyone even if it means sacrificing his own desires. 

An engaging read, that I didn't want to put down. Wonderful, magnetic romance that was believable and undeniable, full of heart. Highly recommend!

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

Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Scent of Sabotage

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: December 30, 2025

Detective Beth Wolfe’s reunion with investigative journalist Jack St. James is a matter of life or death—and when a masked assailant attacks them, a severe blow leaves Jack with amnesia. Beth and her K-9, Arthur, are determined to keep Jack safe while he regains his lost memories. Was he targeted due to a case he was working on…or does it have something to do with the son they placed for adoption decades ago? When their investigations lead them inside a booby-trapped amusement park, it’s a race against the clock to put all the pieces together and uncover the park owners’ nefarious plot…or die trying.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: 

Heart-pounding suspense with a compelling second chance romance. 

After reading the other books in the series, I loved that this book was about Beth and her bloodhound, Arthur. There is a lot going on, with a lot of action, and a heartfelt story of faith and family. Jack and Beth make a great team, they do a great job working together, and have good interaction. Secrets from the past threatened the future, but can the truth set them free? 

The story has all sorts of twists and turns, set in an abandoned and booby-trapped amusement park that is the stuff of nightmares. Engaging storytelling, strong faith, with wonderful characters and a compelling storyline. 

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

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a New York Times, 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

How could we be at the end of a series? I’ve been having a wonderful time with the Wolfe family and their house full of hounds. The last book is finally Beth’s story. She’s the matriarch of the family who has experienced the loss of a spouse. In this story, she will meet the son she never knew and explore the idea of learning to love again. I feel especially fond of this book because Beth is an older heroine who has some living under her belt. She’s learned how to carry on, with her old dog Arthur, and stand faithfully in the face of adversity. Now that’s a heroine I can root for! I hope you enjoy this final installment of the Security Hounds series!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 16

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 16

The Avid Reader, December 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 17

Pause for Tales, December 18

EmpowerMoms, December 18

Bizwings Blog, December 19

Texas Book-aholic, December 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 20

Alyssa Amey, December 20

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 21

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 21

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 22

For Him and My Family, December 22

Devoted To Hope, December 23

Blogging With Carol, December 23

Because I said so, December 24

Artistic Nobody, December 25 (Guest Review from Donna)

Lily’s Corner, December 26

Mary Hake, December 26

Labor Not in Vain, December 27

Blossoms and Blessings, December 27

Holly’s Book Corner, December 28

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 28

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, December 29

Lights in a Dark World, December 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a 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://promosimple.com/ps/3f275/scent-of-sabotage-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner // Review

My Review: 

Three women find themselves bond together by their secrets in this old Hollywood novel of intrigue, mystery, friendship, and resilience. 

Eva is a German who immigrated to America under false pretenses, working as a housekeeper for the up and coming actress Melodie Cole who has been blacklisted under suspicion of communist ties. They meet their neighbor June, who is the sister-in-law and caretaker of a reclusive Hollywood writer. As their lives become more intertwined, they must make decisions, and in the process find an unlikely sisterhood bonded by their secrets. 

All of the women have secrets and are doing their best to lie low. The story is compelling in that each of the women have good intentions, or simply ones that are not in and of themselves anything with harmful intention, but things don't always go as planned. We get to know each of their women and what brought them to where they are though their pasts. 

This was a gripping read, with building tensions. I loved the humanity and complex imperfect characters set in 1958 Malibu, with old Hollywood vibes. 

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

*General fiction-not Christian. Swear words. And a sinful affair, though this is shown not explicitly and is shown in a negative light. 

Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klaassen // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Anne Loveday returns to the place that haunts her memories, determined to avoid her stepmother's matchmaking schemes, she finds herself attending the sickly Lady Celia and finds herself in the  midst of a murder plot. 

A full cast of characters with hidden intentions, and a stream of increasing incidents has everyone asking questions, with no clear idea of who to trust and where to turn. There is a lot going on in this regency era adventure, full of mystery, intrigue and romance, as secrets comes to light. Anne must navigate this new but familiar path, as she looks for the truth. 

I liked the full cast of well developed characters, there is a lot going on, and I liked how Lady Celia encourages Anne in her faith. An engaging read, with a likable protagonist and a page-turning plot. Regency era mystery, with gothic touches, and well done character arcs. Highly enjoyable and satisfying read. 

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

To Marry an Earl by Karen Thornell // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Katherine Cartwright has suffered two failed seasons, and now must marry the highest bidder for her hand out of convenience to pay her father's mounting gambling debts. 

An engaging regency romance with fascinating plot, as Katherine navigates her engagement not knowing who the man in question truly is. I liked Katherine, and how she reconnects with her childhood friend, while trying to work out her future. James is a good man, who has gone through a lot in the past few years. 

This was an enjoyable read, with a sweet clean romance in a lovely regency era setting and situation. Good humor and dialogue. Heartwarming and sweet. 

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

The Roads We Follow by Nicole Deese // Review

My Review: 

A family road trip that brings revelations that test the bonds of family, that explores legacy, faith, and strength for the next generation. 

Raegan Farrow the youngest daughter of country music legend Luella, has been working for her mother's business for as long as she can remember, but she wants to strike out on her own not dependent on her family name for success. But when she learns a secret that threatens her family's reputation right before heading on tour with her mother and sisters, she is faced with a predicament. Micah Davenport's world is rocked by the news that his biological dad is a mystery, so he signs on as the bus driver for the only living woman who might have answers to his question, Luella Farrow. 

A heartwarming family drama, with a compelling and complex characters, with a storied plotline, strong themes of faith, and plenty of heart. Raegan cares deeply for her family, and I admired her for how she wants to prove herself past her last name. Micah is looking for answers, but somehow he is just the person that the Farrow need on their adventure, he bonds with Raegan and encourages her in her endeavors, while also providing a listening ear. 

Overall, a completely captivating read that pulls you in and doesn't let you go until the end. I liked Luella's strong faith, and how she wants that to be at the forefront, amongst the glitz and glamour. An engaging read that draws you in, and makes you feel at home. A heartwarming, faith-filled story of family, legacy and finding your own strengths. 

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

Twilight at Moorington Cross by Abigail Wilson // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Narcoleptic widow Amelia Pembroke is shocked to learn that her doctor has named her the sole beneficiary to his estate. Upon Dr. Cluett's untimely death, she discovers his strange conditions that require her to marry one of two specific men in order to inherit.

A tad slow to start, but once things started rolling there was a lot going on. Full of mystery, intrigue, suspense, and forbidden love. Amelia is a clever heroine, and I liked how she and Mr. Hawkins have a unique friendship, working well together. There is great interaction, with great dialogue, and a lot going on. 

An intriguing plot, with great reveals, and suspense. Well-developed characters, and a riveting plot. Highly enjoyable read, that kept me on my toes and guessing till the end. Engaging clean read, that delivers mystery, suspense, and regency romance!

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

Shielded by the Cowboy by Connie Queen // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Pregnant widow Holly Myer finds protection with Deputy Sheriff Clive Cantrell, after witnessing a double murder. 

There is a lot going on in this fast paced suspense, with Holly trying to  stay one step ahead of each danger. Clive is a hard working rancher who can't refuse helping a pregnant woman in need. I liked how he steps up to help keep her and her baby safe. This book's plot has a lot going on, with a lot of pieces to put together. Clive has a great family, and I liked how Holly is willing to do what is best for her baby.

An engaging plotline, great characters, and a lot going on. Makes for an enjoyable and fast read. 

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

So Into You by Kathleen Fuller // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming rom-com, about stepping out of your comfort zone, taking chances, and finding yourself. 

Britt Branch is an internet star, known for her art tutorials. Her channel is bright and cheery, but secretly she struggles with social anxiety. Hunter is and Britt meet by chance, and a friendship quickly forms. I liked their meet cute and friends X and Maude. It also follows Britt's estranged parents as they navigate reconciling their differences and finding peace. 

Cute and heartwarming, this was a quick read with likable characters and an upbeat charm. A fun read, with strong themes of second chances, forgiveness and healing. I thought that the story did a good job of dealing with Hunter's past life, and showing how he has changed. 

Overall, a wonderful quick read, with a cute plot and multiple point-of-views. 

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

Sons of Day and Night by Mariposa Aristeo // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: Sons of Day & Night

Author: Mariposa Aristeo

Genre: YA Fantasy – Retelling of The Prince and the Pauper

Release Date: November 18, 2025

Not even death can tell them apart.

In the wild and lush kingdom of Twinsbane, everyone has a look-alike, and each twin is cursed to die when their double breathes their last. When an ancient plague arises, the kingdom’s only hope is to sever these deadly ties. Yet King Daccias refuses to relinquish the cure, a legendary potion called the Separator.

Waruu, an orphan determined to break these ties, discovers he’s the king’s doppelgänger. He’s certain that if he can switch places, he can save the kingdom. But if anyone learns his true identity, he’ll lose everything—including the people he’s desperately trying to protect.

King Daccias wants nothing more than for his subjects to cease threatening to behead him if he doesn’t hand over the Separator. Intent on catching those opposing him, he finds himself ensnared in his own trap. If he doesn’t break loose, the kingdom will rest in the hands of an insolent boy who knows nothing about the truth behind the events unfolding around him.

To save their kingdom, both Waruu and Daccias must face their greatest enemy—each other.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

A kingdom of night and day, where everyone has a twin who holds the other twin's life in their hands. 

A fresh fantasy reimagining of The Prince and the Pauper, full of adventure, wit, in this compelling coming of age re-telling. Excellent worldbuilding and strong character arcs, mixed with plenty of humor and sass. Waruu and Daccias could not be more different, but over the course of the story they grew and saw a different viewpoint. Well rounded complex characters, great supporting characters. There is a lot going on, with an engaging plot, and threads of faith woven throughout. 

Overall, a highly enjoyable adventure from beginning to end that puts a fresh spin on a familiar trope. 

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

About the Author

Mariposa Aristeo is a writer of fantastical adventures filled with heart, humor, hope, and sometimes dinosaurs. But, most importantly, she’s a creative who seeks to glorify God on every page of her life. Besides writing snarky characters who sass everybody, Mariposa loves bringing stories to life in full color as an illustrator. She also enjoys inspiring other creatives as the Public Relations Director at Story Embers and the Social Media Manager at the Young Writer’s Workshop.

 

 

 

More from Mariposa

How could I refuse to write a retelling of The Prince & the Pauper?

(Kudos to all the zillennial girls who get that reference.)

Ever since I watched the Barbie rendition of this classic tale when I was just a little girl, this story has been on my heart. As I grew older, other more adventurous tales influenced me, such as Dreamwork’s How to Train Your Dragon, Jennifer Nielsen’s The False Prince, Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, and more recently, Star Wars’ The Bad Batch.

But no matter the story, one aspect stayed the same—finding people just like me in the unlikeliest of places.

Growing up, I had a different childhood than most. I was pretty isolated with little to no friends, and not much extended family. It wasn’t until my twenties that I met the people who would later become my true family. They weren’t blood relations, and we didn’t interact in person until years later (yay for internet friends!). We are different in all the best ways but the same in the ways that matter and weird in the way that makes life interesting.

The Prince & the Pauper is a story about many things. Empathy, compassion, and learning what it’s like to live in another person’s shoes. When I set out to write Sons of Day & Night, I wanted to pay homage to this underrated tale while deepening the bond between the two very different (but also very alike) heroes. It’s not just a story about switched identities, it’s a story about the family we find even when our world is falling apart.

When my mom passed away from cancer in 2022, I felt like my world truly was falling to pieces. Besides losing a parent, I also lost what little I had of a normal family. But my found family came together to be there for me and be the family I never had.

We don’t share the same genetics, but they are every bit as much my brothers and sisters. As Stitch once said, “This is my family. I found it all on my own.”

Fast forward a few years, and I now live within 60 miles of my found family and see them almost every week. It’s funny to think how a few internet strangers became such a huge part of my life, but sometimes God sends us family in the places we least expect it.

And my hope is that Sons of Day & Night will remind you that there’s always someone out there just like you.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, November 20

Inspired by Fiction, November 21

The Lofty Pages, November 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 23 (Spotlight)

Wishful Endings, November 24

CeCe Reads and Sings, November 24

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, November 25 (Author Interview)

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 26

Guild Master, November 27 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, November 28

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 29

Simple Harvest Reads, November 30 (Author Interview)

The Mommies Reviews, November 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 1

Labor Not in Vain, December 2

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 3 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mariposa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a 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://promosimple.com/ps/3dc7e/sons-of-day

On the Edge of Trust by Patricia Bradley // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Sidelined FBI agent Scott Sinclair and crime podcaster Tori Mitchell team up to clear her nephew's name and thwart the killer who has a target on their backs. 

A fast paced adventure with a lot going on as they race against time to solve the mystery, putting their wits to the test. An engaging read with compelling characters and a lot going on. Great pacing and tension, with strong themes of faith and recovering from addiction. I liked that she has been helping her nephew, and is determined to find answers. Scott is a great guy with strong faith, and ready to help wherever he can. 

A highly enjoyable read, full of suspense and great relationship building. Action packed read, amazing characters, packed into a compelling story. 

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