The Christmas Courier by Roseanna M. White // Review

My Review: 

Madeleine Perin and her siblings are doing what they can to fight back against the Nazi occupation of France, working with the resistance along with their former neighbor Daniel Raymond. 

A stirring friends-to-lovers romance based loosely on a true story of hope and resilience in wartime. An engaging read, with likable protagonists who have known each other since childhood. I loved the closeness and support between the Perin siblings and their mother, pulling together and leaning on their faith in difficult times. I liked the chemistry and playfulness between Madeleine and Daniel, as well as their new closeness at a shared faith. 

Hopeful and faith filled Christmas novella, heartwarming and compelling plot, with high stakes in Lyon, France. Madeleine is quick thinking and charismatic, devoted to her family, her faith and the children at the school. I liked that Daniel was a close family friend, and how he took care with how he came forward after what happened in his own personal life, as well as his care for others. 

Overall, a satisfying Christmas novella full of faith, hope, love and family!

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

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Parable
Christianbook.com*
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IndieBound
Barnes & Noble
Amazon**
Bookshop*

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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The Mistletoe Baby by Heidi Main // JustRead Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Mistletoe Baby by Heidi Main, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Mistletoe Baby 
Series: Home to Evermore Ranch Series 
Author: Heidi Main 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: September 29, 2026 
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

They both long for a true home. 
Can the holidays bring opposites together? 

Saving his family’s Texas ranch is former bull rider Reggie Evermore’s Christmas wish. And he’s sure socialite Natalie Patterson can help him plan the perfect event to bring in cash. Pregnant, recently divorced and ready to prove her independence, Natalie needs a paycheck and a place to stay. So she accepts Reggie’s job offer. But planning a fundraiser is harder than attending them! When Reggie learns the truth, he’s less than happy. Can they work through their differences to transform the ranch and give love a chance to grow?

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

Review: 

A heartwarming Christmas romance of misunderstandings and second chances. 

Former bull rider Reggie Evermore needs cash quick to help make his and his chosen family's dreams come to fruition, so he hires divorced socialite Natalie Patterson to help him throw an event to raise the needed funds. 

What Natalie doesn't have in experience she makes up for in determination, with a tight timeline working against her on top of everything else. Pregnant, divorced and estranged from her family she needs to make this job work. Reggie and Natalie make a good team, both of them are new to throwing an event, but give it their all, with plenty of ingenuity and taking things as they come. 

Heartwarming and engaging, I loved how welcoming and supportive Reggie's family is towards Natalie. There is great interaction, relationship building, faith, and romance. I like that Natalie wasn't afraid to ask questions and for help when she needed it. Wonderful Christmas time romance, full of heart and hope. 

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

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About the Author

Heidi Main is a New York Times Bestselling Author. Her sweet inspirational romance novels celebrate small-town life, faith, and the beauty of second chances. Though she lives in the suburbs, Heidi dreams of acreage and horseback riding—longings that find their way into her novels through wide-open ranches and loyal horses.

She loves popcorn and milk chocolate (not necessarily in that order), and savors novels and movies with happily-ever-afters. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys taking walks, gardening, playing card games, curling up with a good book and watching home renovation shows. Before starting her writing career, Heidi worked with computers and taught Jazzercise. A perfect Saturday is spent relaxing on the deck with her husband and watching the birds that visit their backyard. 

 

Connect with Heidi by visiting heidimain.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of The Mistletoe Baby, a $20 Amazon gift card, an ornament, and a tote bag!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 12, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 19, 2026. 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Christmas in Chestnut Crossing by Heidi Chiavaroli, Tia McCollors, Amy Clipston, and Shaen Layle // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A heartwarming collection of hopeful Christmas novellas set in Chestnut Crossing. 

Everything Beautiful in Its Time by Heidi Chiavaroli 

When Deborah finds a Christmas wish tucked inside the pages of a book donated to the Christmas Market, she is so touched that she goes on a mission to bring hope to its sender. 

Over the course of the story she meets many people and learns more about the sender, giving her hope on her first Christmas after the death of her husband. Heartwarming and hopeful a sweet story for Christmas. 

Love Never Leaves Us by Tia McCollors

Gloria is starting over in a new town after the loss of her husband. She takes over the local bakery and decides to take part in the local Christmas Market. Over the course of the story she makes new friends and finds a new sense of belonging in this heartwarming tale. 

One Starry Night by Amy Clipston

Sadie returns to her hometown after heartbreak, and finds herself reconnecting with an old acquaintance she never thought she'd talk to again. A sweet second chance romance Christmas time, full of second chances and forgiveness. 

Candlelit Christmas by Shaen Layle

Ella is disappointed to have her holiday plans cancelled, but a chance encounter with a stranger gives her and opportunity to help someone in need and help restore the hope of another and herself at Christmas. 

A heartwarming collection of feel-good Christmas stories with themes of new beginnings, hope, and forgiveness. 

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

The Christmas Yes List by Melissa Ferguson // Review

My Review: 

Chloe Hollis is determined to change her people pleasing ways, even if it means suggesting the outrageous things just to be rejected. Coming home for the holidays she encounters James a workaholic big city businessman who is determined to embrace the season more fully and live in the moment accepting the opportunities that come his way. 

A quirky Christmas rom-com, with an over-the-top fun filled plot and characters. The story is clean and cute, I really liked James and his steady willingness to try new things and live in the moment. James is patient and I liked how he makes the best out of every situation. Chloe on the other hand had me feeling cringey secondhand embarrassment with her behavior and how she was willing to go out of her way to hurt others. 

The story has a cute premise, but borders on outrageous at times. It was a fun festive rom-com, with plenty of cute moments, and a handsome and thoughtful hero. A fun quick read, but perhaps too much for my personal taste. 

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

Montana Christmas Target by Terri Reed // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Sculptor Fiona Halvorson finds herself caught up in a dangerous crime operation, when she finds her ex-fiancé dead and her art gallery implicated in illegal dealings. She's saved from an attempted abduction by FBI agent Bryce Springs, and together they must stay one step ahead of the killers while figuring out how to disentangle her from the criminal scheme. 

A fast paced, and action packed read, with likable characters and a thrilling plot. Fiona is quick thinking with good survival instinct, she is the kind of woman who can take care of herself but also knows when to stand back and be supportive. Together she and Bryce make a great team. 

Overall, a fantastic Christmas suspense with strong faith, great characters and a lot going on! Highly entertaining and enjoyable read!

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

We Wish You a Messy Christmas by Melody Carlson // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A sweet smalltown romance, with dysfunctional family dynamics, humor and heart. 

Olivia is dating her former neighbor, Malcolm McEntire. She knows that her mother doesn't care much for their neighbors, so she enlists her father to help her break the news to her mother. 

A quick heartwarming read, about family, faith and learning to accept change, in a smalltown holiday setting. Quirky and humorous, I liked that Jane had to think about how her comments and behavior could impact her family in the future. though for her faults she is a caring and good mother. Olivia's dad is a wonderful, loving and understanding man. 

Overall, a fun read, cozy and with strong themes of faith to get you ready for the holiday season!

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

Twelve Days and Twelfth Night by Sarah Sundin // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming and uplighting Christmas tale of hope and new beginnings. 

Maggie Oliver is given no small order when tasked with pulling together a Christmas USO show with little time to spare. I admired her sunny positive attitude and how she met every roadblock with bright determination. Duke Prescott is a former Hollywood actor, burned in a terrible accident while serving his country, scarred and without options in Hollywood, his life feels like a dead end. But an invitation to join Maggie's USO production unexpectedly changes his life. 

A compelling and hopeful read, with likable protagonists and an engaging plot. Maggie has a sunny can-do attitude, and I loved her close relationship and comraderie with her grandfather. I like how Prescott is down to earth and ready to jump right in and help wherever he can. 

A fun fast paced read, with a full cast of wonderful characters and plenty of heart. I loved the creative ways that the Twelve Days of Christmas and the Twelfth Night played into the story. An uplifting and inspiring story of faith and purpose. Highly recommend!

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

Serah and the First Christmas by Tama Fortner, illustrated by Silvia Provantini // Review

My Review: 

A charming picture book, with lovely watercolor illustrations that follows young Serah, a shepherdess-in-training, as she learns to care for the sheep and witnesses Christ's coming. 

 Beautifully written and sure to become a favorite, this book has a timeless charm, with a cute and heartwarming story of young Serah and her little lamb. I loved the gorgeous and adorable pictures that did as much storytelling as the words, with expressive imagery and use of the soft blending of watercolor. It makes a lovely gift for the young person in your life, for Christmas or any time of year. It is a wonderful read aloud story, that celebrates Jesus' birth. A wonderful addition to your library that you will be reaching for again and again. 

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

Holly and Nick Hate Christmas by Betsy St. Amant // Review

My Review: 

Chaotic and heartwarming Christmas rom-com, with likable characters and plenty of heart. 

Holly is headed home for the holidays feeling lower than she has in a while, newly jobless, and turning 30 on the 25th, she and Christmas have never been friends. Holly is a likable heroine, but she's in a funk. I could definitely relate to all the little things adding up and taking a toll on her happiness. She has a full of siblings all home for Christmas, so there are a lot of personalities under one roof.

Nick is Holly's brother Ryan's co-worker, and he is a little surprised when Ryan offers to set him up with his sister Holly for Christmas, especially since Nick has a secret that nobody knows that has potential to shake up the holiday. 

A fun and relatable rom-com, with a cozy country setting, and a loving but chaotic family. I liked the interaction between Nick and Holly, and how he wants to get to know her better. It's and crazy at times, but brought a smile to my face. Highly enjoyable, with a heartwarming faith-filled core. Highly recommend!

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

Rosie's Cowboy Christmas: Saving the Holidays Together by Paige Murray, illustrated by Kristen Humphrey // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming story of friendship and family at Christmastime in Texas.

Oakley and Rosie are excited for all the fun things they will do at Christmas, until anowstorm comes and takes the power with it. Rosie helps Oakley make the most out of a change of plans.

Heartwarming and cute, I loved the ranch setting and the charming and cozy illustrations. Simple and heartwarming. I loved how Rosie worked to cheer Oakley up and make her Christmas one to remember.

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

A Sea View Christmas by Julie Klassen // Review

My Review: 

Celebrate the holidays in Sidmouth in this final installment On Devonshire Shores.

 Sarah is torn between a chance at happiness and duty, when the handsome widower Callum Henshaw and his daughter return for a visit. Meanwhile, Georgiana is excited for Christmas surrounded by friends and is determined to help a displaced orphan while a friendship deepens into the possibility of something more.

 A heartwarming return to the shores of Devonshire, Sarah is happy to see two of her sisters settled and is adjusting to the changes at the inn. But Mr. Henshaw stirs hopes and questions of an uncertain future path. 

A gently compelling story, that in my mind is a lovely original blend of Little Women and Cranford or Downtown Abbey. I love how we follow multiple characters through their lives and everyday events and challenges. Georgiana is the youngest, and growing into a young woman, she has a heart for others and is always trying to help out, even if in unexpected ways. 

 A thoroughly enjoyable read full of heart and love for home, with themes of trusting God and new beginnings. Wonderful, captivating characters, I have so enjoyed reading their stories through this fantastic series. Highly recommend.

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

The Christmas Ring by Karen Kingsbury // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Heartwarming Christmas story of hope and new beginnings. 

Years ago, Vanessa Mayfield lost a beloved family heirloom with a story of resilience and hope attached to it and passed through the generations. On a whim she stops at a pawn shop where she strikes up a friendship with the co-owner, Ben Miller. 

A sweet story of love, sacrifice, and faith. I liked that Ben and Vanessa are both older, and start their friendship based on shared interests and shared faith. Great interaction and I loved how the story also follows Vanessa's daughter, Sadie and her sweetheart. 

Well-written, heartwarming Christmas story, that is being made into a major motion picture. Wonderful, sweet romance, full of faith, with some real tear-jerker moments. Highly recommend!

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

The Christmas Book Flood by Roseanna M. White // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming romance set in Iceland during the American occupation of WWII, exploring the enchanting tradition of Jolabokaflod. 

Tatiana keeps busy, working a publishing house and hosting her young niece in the city for Christmastime, while harboring a secret. When the publishing house is flooded with orders for Christmas, she and the other workers must pull long hours working around the clock to fill the orders. Editor and children's book author and illustrator Anders Johannson has admired Tatiana from afar and takes the opportunity to lend a hand with the orders. I liked his quiet observance and thoughtfulness, and I liked how he and his family opened up their lines of communication more over the course of the story. 

Truely a wonderful read, perfect to put you in the Christmas mood, with a lovely setting and time period I hadn't really ever thought much of before now. I absolutely love the Jolabokaflod tradition and learning more about their love of books at Christmas time. I loved Elea's excitement about Christmas, she is very encouraging and has a way of saying things as she sees them. A charming story that you will want to read again and again, with great characters, strong interaction, heartwarming with inspiring themes of faith and family. Highly recommend! 

 

I checked out a copy of this book from my local library. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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

 Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter | Website

Mistletoe and Mayhem by Janice Thompson // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Mistletoe and Mayhem (The Little Red Truck Mysteries: Book Three)

Author: Janice Thompson

Genre: Mystery/Christian Fiction/Christmas

Release Date: September, 2025

A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch

Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.

It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

A heartwarming cozy mystery, at Christmastime that finds Mason and RaeLyn working out the final details to walk down the aisle, while her parents are getting used to the idea of an emptying nest. 

Probably my favorite of the series so far, with a satisfying story arc great characters and a warm reunion of familiar faces. I loved how this book had more of her parents, and a lot of themes of family and embracing the positive changes. Engaging mystery, with an engaging heartwarming feel. I loved the strong themes of faith and family throughout, especially at Christmastime. 

Satisfying read, and it was so wonderful to see characters that I have watched fall in love and come to care for finally tie the knot. Engaging plot, amazing characters. Excellent read!

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

About the Author

Janice Thompson, who lives in the Houston area, writes romantic comedies, cozy mysteries, nonfiction devotionals, and musical comedies for the stage. She is the mother of four daughters and nine feisty grandchildren. When she’s not writing books or taking care of foster dogs you’ll find her in the kitchen, baking up specialty cakes and cookies.

 

 

 

More from Janice

In the mid-90s, as my children and I drove up to the Mabank area from our home in Houston, we saw smoke off in the distance. The closer we got to my mother and stepfather’s acreage—sixty-three gorgeous acres of cattle land—the thicker the smoke got.

When we arrived on Mom’s street the reality of what faced us was unavoidable. The property across the road, to our left, was in a roaring blaze, flames moving so fast my car could barely get past them on the narrow country road.

We miraculously made it to Mom’s driveway and went inside her home, hearts racing. In that moment, a decision was made to gather in a circle and pray. We offered up a passionate plea for the Lord’s protection then rushed outside to grab hoses to help water everything down.

As I sat to write Mistletoe and Mayhem, my latest cozy mystery from Barbour Publishing, I was faced with the memories of this terrifying trip. Just as you read in this story, firefighters got that massive blazed stopped, right at the edge of her property. And I can tell you as a first-hand witness that not a spark landed on any of us. Whenever I reflect on this event I’m reminded of God’s ultimate faithfulness. He spared us from certain catastrophe.

I can assure you, we as a family never forgot the mercy and grace of God as we faced our Isaiah 43 moment. No doubt you’ve been through a few fires, too. Fear not. The Lord is right there, ready to carry you through. You can trust Him, even in the fiery trials of life.

Blessings on you all,

Janice Thompson

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Isaiah 43:1b-3

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 3

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 5

Texas Book-aholic, October 6

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 7

For Him and My Family, October 8

Blossoms and Blessings, October 9 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, October 9

Leslie’s Library Escape, October 10

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 11

Holly’s Book Corner, October 12

Lights in a Dark World, October 12

Bizwings Book Blog, October 13

Pause for Tales, October 14

Cover Lover Book Review, October 15

Labor Not in Vain, October 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Janice is giving away a $25 Amazon e-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://sweepwidget.com/c/92786-mnjkp2ge

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

 

About the Book

Book: Falling for a Humbug Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 5)

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Contemporary Christian Cowboy Romance

Release date: November 5, 2024

Book: Falling for a Humbug Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 5)

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Contemporary Christian Cowboy Romance

Release date: November 5, 2024

She’s the happiest person he’s ever met. His world has turned upside and he’s in no mood for Christmas. Will these coworkers find middle ground as they head into the holidays?

Reeling from a shocking family secret, Drake Vargas heads into the holiday season grumpier than he’s ever been. He can’t seem to get his footing and his new barista is way too much sunshine for him.

Candi Kaine loves Christmas! Nothing can stop her sunny disposition. As she starts a new job at Vargas Ranch, she’s determined to fix the grumpy, hipster cowboy who just happens to be her boss. Nothing will deter her from making sure he experiences a very Merry Christmas.

Will Drake find his joy again or has Candi Kaine finally met her match?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

A holiday grumpy-sunshine romance, that brings us back to the Vargas Family Ranch, with Drake still reeling from the secrets of his past. 

Drake has a lot of reasons to be less than thrilled going into this holiday season, still coming to terms with the news of his family, while managing the food services and coffee shop on the ranch. Candi Kaine breezes into his life with her annoyingly infectious high spirits, always up for a challenge especially if it means bringing a smile to a humbug cowboy's face. Candi is a good compliment to Drake's hardened exterior, helping him to open up about what he has gone through. 

I loved the interaction between Candi and Drake, as the themes of faith and family. I loved how welcoming the family was towards Candi, and how this story brought everyone together for the holidays, making for a great conclusion to the series. 

Overall, a fantastic addition to a wonderful series! Definitely recommend!

About the Author

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

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

More from Karen

Inspiring My Christmas Mood by Karen Baney

In Falling for a Humbug Cowboy, I had a lot of fun incorporating classic holiday songs (and the occasional Christmas story) into scenes to add flavor and sometimes intensify the character’s feelings.

It was purely accidental at first. I love classic Christmas songs and during the holiday season my hubby and I listen to a lot of Holiday Traditions on Sirius XM.

So, when I described a scene where Candi helps Drake decorate the dining hall, I just wrote that she switched the overhead music to a Christmas station and belted out Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer. The next thing I know, I’m three song mentions in. So, I decided to make deliberate use of songs.

When I was struggling to get in the mood to write a Christmas novel in the dead of summer (108+ in July in Arizona!), I loaded up my phone with several playlists. One of the first songs was Feliz Navidad and I knew I had to find a way to use it. It would be the perfect song to show off Candi’s fun personality and draw Drake out of his humbug mood.

I hope you enjoy this Christmas playlist from the novel with a few sneak peaks of how I used the songs:

• Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer – Candi belts out the tune while working.
• White Christmas by Bing Crosby – Candi “crooned along with Bing Crosby, making a nice duet”.
• The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole – causes Drake to picture holding Candi close, swaying to the music.
• Holly Jolly Christmas by Burl Ives – playing while Drake helps Candi with a rush of customers.
• Feliz Navidad – Candi dances around Drake until she gets him to dance and sing along.
• I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm by Dean Martin – Candi notices the not-so-humbug cowboy walking away, ratcheting up her interest.
• Christmas in Your Eyes by Travis Shaw – playing during a special moment between Drake and Candi.
• It’s Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas by Michael Bublé – Candi’s lunch with a friend.
• Mele Kalikimaka – Driving to Flagstaff together to play in the snow.
• All I want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey – sets the stage for Drake’s proposal on July 25^th (Christmas in July).

What’s your favorite Christmas song? By a specific artist or any artist? Please share in the comments, I’d love to know. 😊

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, December 11

lakesidelivingsite, December 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 13

A Reader’s Brain, December 14 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, December 14

Texas Book-aholic, December 15

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 16

Back Porch Reads, December 17 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 18

Lighthouse Academy, December 19

Devoted To Hope, December 20

Simple Harvest Reads, December 21 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, December 22

Labor Not in Vain, December 23

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 24 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 24Giveaway

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54116

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

Hunted for the Holiday Deena Alexander // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Shae went into witness protection for six years, hiding from the crime family who wants her to pay for how she helped put the patriarch away. The only person she can rely on is former FBI Mason Payne, who is also the father of her daughter. 

A fast paced suspense, as Mason, Shae, and Gracie try to stay one step ahead of the the deadly gang bent on retribution. The story jumps right into the action, but also has some sweet relationship building moments. I liked how Mason instantly steps up and works with Shae to keep them safe and get to know little Gracie. 

An entertaining read with a good plot and great characters. Shae is a great mother, raising her daughter to trust in God and giving her courage. I liked the strong themes of faith, the suspense, and second change romance. A very enjoyable Christmas suspense!

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

A Guardian Till Christmas by Danielle Thorne // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Big city business woman Kylee Spokes gains custody of a pair of four-year-old twins after sudden death of her sister and her husband. Her plans to return to the city are delayed when she finds herself out of her depth with children, paramedic Evan Hollister isn't about to abandon his godchildren, so he offers to help share the responsibility for the kids as they find their new normal.

A heartwarming romance where big city meets small town, the children are adorable and are craving stability after their world fell apart. Evan is great with the kids, and has known them all their lives. I liked how he helps Kylee think of things in a new light, and encourages her to get in touch with her roots. 

Overall, a sweet heartwarming Christmas romance with great characters, faith and family in a small town. Great for fans of cozy Christmas movies!

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

Heart Games 3: A Christian (Christmas) Romance Puzzling Experience by Amanda Hamm // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A delightful Christmas time read with accompanying puzzles to solve along with sisters, Monica and Martha, as they celebrate Christmas with their family and friends. 

I was so excited to trying this puzzling experience for the 1st time because two of very favorite things are Christian romance and doing logic puzzles. This was such a fun way to spend an afternoon, the books goes through three scenes, and there are themed accompanying puzzles with hints and answers in the back if you need some help. 

A wonderful combination of my favorite things, and a great afternoon pastime or gift for someone you love. 

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

Once Upon a Horse by Helena Smrcek // Just Read

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Once Upon a Horse by Helena Smrcek, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Once Upon a Horse
Series: The Vets of Heavenbrooke County #1
Author: Helena Smrcek
Publisher: EverWind Press
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

In the charming Heavenbrooke county, where country life meets big-city dreams, 28-year-old accountant Stella Barkley is about to discover that sometimes love arrives when you least expect it. 

After a flat tire leaves her stranded on the side of the road, a handsome stranger comes to her rescue—Dr. Jason Alba, a dedicated veterinarian with a heart as big as his ambitions. Their initial encounter sparks an undeniable connection, aided by Stella's spirited Jack Russell Terrier, Milkbone, who takes an immediate liking to Jason thanks to his pocket full of treats. 

As their paths intertwine, Stella finds herself drawn to Jason, despite their differing views on farm life and future aspirations. Their budding romance takes unexpected turns, especially when a mysterious missing horse from a local breeder, Enrique Rodriguez, complicates matters. 

When Thanksgiving arrives, Jason becomes Stella's unexpected hero, saving her from a culinary disaster and charming her city friends with his warm spirit. But just as their relationship begins to flourish, a crisis emerges in the barn: the missing mare, Starling, is discovered in distress, leading Jason to perform a life-saving surgery that brings them even closer. 

However, secrets and misunderstandings threaten to tear them apart. Stella’s desperate attempt to protect a champion mare sends her on a collision course with both Jason and Enrique, forcing her to confront her choices and the future she thought she wanted. 

When Stella realizes that her life in Heavenbrooke may be over, she pens a heartfelt goodbye letter to Jason, leaving it at the church where their story began. Alone on Christmas morning, she grapples with loneliness and regret, only to be surprised by the appearance of the man who stole her heart. 

Can a simple letter and the magic of Christmas lead them to a second chance? Will they find a way to bridge the divide between city and country, love and loyalty? 

Join Stella and Jason on a heartfelt journey of love, loss, and the enduring power of second chances in Once Upon a Horse. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, this tale of unexpected connections and the bonds we forge will leave you believing in the wonder of love.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

Lucie's Review: 

A chance meeting on the side of the road sweeps Stella Barkley into a small town swirl of secrets with the local veterinarian, Dr. Jason Alba, a local horse breeder, and a missing horse. 

Stella has a big heart, and wants to help others. I loved her little Jack Russell Terrier, Milkbone, he was a rascally cutie, and he took a real liking to Jason and his pockets full of treats! Stella is getting used to living in the country, and finding new friends. Jason is a busy vet, with a big heart and secrets of his own. I liked seeing Stella and Jason get to know each other, as they work to weather the challenges that come their way. 

A sweet story set in a small town, full of adorable animals, and a Christmastime romance. An enjoyable read for the holiday season!

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

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About the Author

Helena Smrcek is an award-winning author, screenwriter, public speaker and writing coach. From her romantic suspense series to women’s fiction, contemporary romance, and humor, and her latest favorite, dual timeline historicals—like a box of chocolate truffles—she loves them all. With a passion for storytelling sparked by her grandparents, Helena Smrcek weaves heartfelt tales that explore themes of faith, love, and redemption.

Connect with Helena by visiting helenasmrcek.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 all 3 books in the Alicia Yu FBI series plus Once Upon a Horse!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 9, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 16, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Winner location limited to where Amazon will ship. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

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

Lucie's Review:

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

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

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

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