A Little Christian's Animals by Lila Noffsinger, illustrated by Lucy Shin // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

 

Book: A Little Christian’s Animals (The Little Christian Learning Collection Book 2)

Author: Lila Noffsinger

Genre: Christian Children’s Picture Book

Release Date: February 20, 2024

A Little Christian’s Animals is the newest installment of the Little Christian Learning Collection, which teaches preschool level learning concepts with Bible stories! In A Little Christian’s Animals, children journey with sing-songy rhymes through ten animal-centered Bible stories. Children will be captured by Lucy Shin’s adorable illustrations, and parents will enjoy nourishing their kids’ hearts and minds. Big Biblical truths are packed into this bite-sized book, the perfect length for little attention spans. Little animal enthusiasts will love Jonah’s whale, Daniel’s lions, Egypt’s frogs, and many more animals! A Little Christian’s Animals is sure to become a family favorite of kids and parents alike!

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

A completely charming picture book, with captivating rhymes that present Biblical truth for young minds. Accompanied by adorable illustrations that reference the original text. 

A wonderful book to share with pre-school aged children, and talk about how God used animals throughout the Bible. I liked how the book has a list of references in the back, so you can go and read the story right from the text. I love the melodic rhyming, as the book takes us through Genesis through Revelation. The book has a hopeful and bright tone, with darling illustrations in a charming color palette. 

A great gift for the little one in your life, you won't be able to resist this delightful children's book! Highly enjoyable!

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

About the Author

Lila Noffsinger is a Christian, wife, and mama to three. Her kids are her inspiration for writing, and she loves creating for them books that are cute, fun to read, educational, and biblically enriching. When she isn’t writing or playing with her family, she loves to read, craft, and hike. Lila lives with her family in San Jose, CA.

 

 

 

 

 

More from Lila

I don’t need to look far to find inspiration for my books. Literally. My little inspirations are usually physically touching me. My three kids (ages 3 and under) bring joy, laughter, and a lot of books into my life. As a mom, I want books for them that are fun for me to read, engaging for them to look at, and enriching for their hearts and minds. What sprung up from that desire was The Little Christian Learning Collection, now including A Little Christian’s 123s, A Little Christian’s Animals, and the accompanying coloring & activity books.

It continues to fill me with joy when my kids pick these books off the shelf to read. My youngest daughter will toddle through the house with A Little Christian’s Animals in her hand, yelling “Am-mi-mals!” as a request to read it. If I accidentally skip the frog on the first page, she will turn back to it so she can point it out. Frogs have become her favorite animals, and, based on Lucy Shin’s adorable portrayal of them, I can’t blame her.

I’ve been so honored by the reports of these books being similarly loved in other households. It brings me so much joy to know that kids are asking to read these Bible stories over and over again.

I love the work that goes into constructing these books. The rhymes are fun to ponder over as I rock babies or cook dinner. I love the research that goes into making the illustrations historically and geographically accurate. Illustrator Lucy Shin is a joy to work with, and the way she turns my notes and scribbles into something adorable seems like magic to me.

I’ve also really enjoyed putting together the coloring and activity books. It’s yet another way to let kids engage with Bible stories, learn something new, and have fun doing it! I’ve been surprised by what a hit they’ve become, and I’m so glad that kiddos around the country are enjoying them. If you want a taste, ALL of the coloring pages are available for free here: https://www.seedlingsbooks.com/color

Overall, writing these books has been a huge blessing, and I’m continually honored to hear how they’re being enjoyed by little readers. Keep your eyes open for more in the Little Christian Learning Collection! There’s more to come.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, August 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 10

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 11

For Him and My Family, August 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 13

Girls in White Dresses, August 14

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 15

Lots of Helpers, August 15

By the Book, August 16

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 17

Stories by Gina, August 18 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 18

Labor Not in Vain, August 19

Cover Lover Book Review, August 20

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 21

Book Zone, August 22

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lila is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon Gift Card with the entire Little Christian Learning Collection!!

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/2dbdb/a-little-christian-s-animals-celebration-tour-giveaway

Where Trees Touch the Sky by Karen Barnett // JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Where Trees Touch the Sky by Karen Barnett hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Where Trees Touch the Sky 

Series: National Parks 

Author: Karen Barnett 

Publisher: Kregel 

Release Date: August 13, 2024 

Genre: Christian Fiction, Dual Timeline 

Some secrets have shadows as long as the redwoods are tall. 

In the early 1920s, the accelerating destruction of the California redwoods is more than nature-loving Marion Baker can bear. Throwing herself headlong into the work of the Save the Redwoods League, she is shocked to learn that Frank Duncan, a man she's grown to love, is the son of one of the area's worst timber barons. Though devastated by the betrayal, she realizes this could also be an opportunity--if only she can convince him to help preserve her favorite grove from his father's greedy grasp. Is her love strong enough to persuade him to save these precious trees? Or will Marion choose to sacrifice her beliefs to keep Frank by her side? 

Nearly fifty years later, in 1972, polio survivor June Turner is deeply proud of the legacy her great aunt Marion has left as a redwood warrior. And despite her disability, June is determined to prove herself capable as a ranger at the recently established Redwood National Park, even if it means taking to the trails with her crutch in hand. What better way to carry on the family tradition of preserving God’s magnificent creation?

When aspiring film student Adam Garner approaches June to help make a documentary about Marion's life, she swiftly grabs the opportunity to spread her aunt's worthy reputation. That is, until they unearth a secret that might shatter the family legacy. In the scramble for answers, June may lose not only her family pride but also her own dreams. 

Karen Barnett's beautifully crafted split-time novel, set against the majestic backdrop of a beloved national park, immerses the reader in history that feels as fresh as if it happened yesterday. 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

My Review:

Two strong women nearly 50 years apart see God's grace and strength while working amongst the California Redwoods. 

June Turner is used to being labeled and belittled because of the leg brace she wears broadcasting her disability. She gets a job at the Redwood National Park where so many years ago her great aunt Marion fought to preserve the beautiful trees, and uncovers secrets from her family's past. Can she keep her job when she has a boss who is counting on her failing? 

A well done split time novel, with equally engaging storylines. I admired June's determination to prove herself in the face of adversity. Adam is a likable young man, with a passion for film, placed in a tricky spot. Marion is passionate about preservation of the Redwoods and I loved how the themes of preservation were handled in a way that was honoring to God seeing the trees as part of his creation. 

I loved learning about the history of the Redwoods National Park, and reading about it only made me want to see it in person even more! An engaging read, with complex characters, and strong themes of faith woven throughout. Highly recommend!

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

Also Available: 

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About the Author

Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of eight novels including When Stone Wings Fly and The Vintage National Parks Novels. A former national park ranger, she’s also a hobby photographer and enjoys teaching writing workshops with both Cascade Christian Writers and West Coast Christian Writers. She and her family live in Albany, Oregon.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Where Trees Touch the Sky and book related goodies!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 14, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 21, 2024. 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

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

The Farmer Takes a Wife by Candice Sue Patterson // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: The Farmer Takes a Wife

Author: Candice Sue Patterson

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release date: May 28, 2024

Librarian Gemma Breckenridge hates the spotlight. She’s content in her small town, living alone with books for company and caring for her once famous sister, Cammie, who’s now suffering from a degenerative brain disease. But Cammie’s care is expensive, and when the grant Gemma was counting on is denied, she’s forced to take desperate measures and applies to be a contestant on a reality television show where a wealthy farmer is looking for a love connection. What better place to keep her sister’s identity incognito than a thousand-acre farm in the middle of nowhere, South Dakota?

Colby Graham will do anything to save his almost bankrupt farm, even if it means that all of primetime will think he’s incapable of finding a wife on his own. The sponsorships alone should carry his business out of the red, and royalties from the producer will help to keep it there. But choosing a bride from among eight gorgeous strangers is tougher than Colby bargained for. Especially when the one woman he wants isn’t a contestant.

With a cast of vivid characters, join the crew in this witty romance filled with drama, heartache, elimination challenges, and fancy luggage full of secrets. Amid the beautiful setting of the Midwest, this tale unravels the tightly bound threads of sacrificial love.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Review:

Can two people who join a dating show for "the wrong reasons" find a happily ever after, after all?

Gemma and Colby both have their own reasons for signing up for a reality dating show, but they have more on their minds than finding love. A fun read set in East River South Dakota, with a full cast of characters. I loved Colby's best friend, Stone, and his father who has many words of wisdom. A fun escape for fans of reality dating shows, who love a good love triangle and plenty of drama. A sweet romance, with a fun premise. 

Loved the characters and good interaction, definitely kept me guessing until the end!

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

About the Author

Candice Sue Patterson studied at The Institute of Children’s Literature and is an elementary librarian. She lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons in a restored farmhouse overtaken by books. When she’s not tending to her chickens, snuggling with her Great Pyrenees, or helping children discover books they love, she’s working on a new story. Candice writes Modern Vintage Romance–where the past and present collide with faith.

 

 

 

More from Candice

Can you imagine signing up to marry someone you’d never met? Neither had my heroine Gemma Breckenridge until it was her last resort. This thought is what propelled me to write The Farmer Takes a Wife.

In 2009, I came across a reality TV dating show where several women from the city were invited to test out farm life in hopes of gaining a proposal from a farmer at the end. That show was called Farmer Wants a Wife. Though most of the episodes made me cringe, I thought it was a fantastic plot for a book. Since I write both historical and contemporary romance, I strive to put modern spins in my historical novels and vintage threads through my contemporary novels. What better vintage thread to drop into a modern-day rom com than a marriage of convenience trope?

But I didn’t want it to be the average marriage of convenience trope. I wanted something fresh. So, I put a spin on it, which brought about another spin, and before I knew it the story was taking a twist every few chapters.

The Farmer Takes a Wife is nine years in the making. After I wrote the first draft, I put it away for several years as book contracts were offered. I’d pull it out every now and then, polish it a bit, and then put it away again. In 2020, one month before the Covid pandemic rocked our world, I had finally completed it. With many workplaces shutting down, publishing houses were hesitant to offer new contracts. So, again, the story sat in my computer. At the end of last year, I decided I’d release the book myself this spring, shocked and delighted when the reality show Farmer Wants a Wife made a comeback after all those years! And it’s so much better than original season.

Perfect timing? Here’s hoping!

Join my cast and crew in Evangeline, South Dakota, for a wild ride of romance, drama, heartache, witty banter, and two hunky farmers. Yes, I said two. Did I mention this story had twists?

Blog Stops

Vicky Sluiter, August 3

Karen Baney Reviews, August 4

Stories By Gina, August 5 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 5

Holly’s Book Corner, August 6

Texas Book-aholic, August 6

Book Looks by Lisa, August 7

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 8

She Lives To Read, August 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 11

Pause for Tales, August 12

Devoted To Hope, August 12

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 13

Cover Lover Book Review, August 14

For Him and My Family, August 15

Labor Not in Vain , August 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Candice is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a 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/2d091/the-farmer-takes-a-wife-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Women of Wynton's by Donna Mumma // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

 

Book: The Women of Wynton’s

Author: Donna Mumma

Genre: Mystery/Christian Fiction

Release date: July, 2024

Mid-Century Glam Meets Murder Mayhem

Get swept away to the glamor of a 1950’s department store where four women’s loyalties, vanity, friendship, and detective skills are put to the test.

Audrey Penault once led a glamorous life as a model but now works as devoted secretary to Mr. Wynton. To her fellow employees, she is too vain and uppity.

Mary Jo Johnson, a wife and mother, longs to find her worth in the cosmetics department, but it may take a while for the shy housewife to discover her voice.

Vivian Sheffield owns and runs the bridal salon within Wynton’s. She is proud of her accomplishments and won’t let anyone take them away.

Gigi Woodard dislikes her job as waitress in the store’s lunchroom, but she is determined not to let her secret shortcomings cause her to lose the position.

These four women have much to dislike about each other, but they unanimously agree that Mr. Wynton is the best of employers and must be protected at all costs from someone who seems determined to see him gone for good. When other employee deaths occur, can the women band together to solve the murders, or will they discover it is one of their own bent on destroying Wynton’s from within?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

Set in a 1950's department store, four women form an unlikely friendship and work together to solve the mystery of who is trying to hurt Mr. Wynton. 

Slow to start while the scene is set, but the reader payoff is worth it later on. But as the pieces fall into place the pace picks up as the tension builds. We get to know each of the women throughout the story, but it is Audrey who brings them together. Audrey is a clever woman, with a past shrouded in mystery, but who has a head for business. I liked how she reached out to the other women, as well as her friendship with Mr. Wynton. 

Overall, this was a fun read. I loved the setting, and getting to know each of the women. I liked how they found friendships with each other despite their previous assumptions. The switching POVs kept it interesting, and I liked the use of phrases from that time period. A fun read that really grew on me over the course of the story!

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

About the Author

Donna Mumma perfected storytelling in her first grade classroom, spinning tales exciting enough to settle a roomful of antsy six-year-olds. She is an award winning author who loves to blend history, mystery, and a dash of hope in stories that explore ordinary people who learn extraordinary life lessons. Donna is an active member of Word Weavers International, serving as president for the Tampa chapter as well as a mentor for chapters around the country. She was recognized as the Word Weavers traditional groups president and mentor of the year in 2022. She also serves as a line editor and contributor for Inskpirationsonline.com, a site featuring devotions written for writers by writers. An avid believer in education, Donna earned her M. Ed in elementary education and writes educational blogs and articles to assist teachers overseas for the International School Project. A native Floridian, she loves sharing life with her husband and her energetic collie, Duke.

More from Donna

Two models posed in red, flowy iconic 50’s dresses, white gloves, and classy hats. Perfect makeup and hair. Years ago, this picture hung in the dressing rooms of my favorite clothing store.

I was hooked.

Every time I entered the store, I’d walk to the dressing rooms to stare at the picture whether I had something to try on or not. There was something about that image that drew me in.

A few years later, I happened upon the same picture from the store on a social media page I’d joined featuring fashions from the 1950’s. I discovered my beloved photo came from a cover of Vogue magazine issued in 1955.

Then my imagination started churning. Every movie I’d watched with Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Kim Novak came to mind. I pictured four women, wearing the classy, tailored suits, full-skirted dresses, and the beautiful gowns from the 50’s. They were going to work in a department store because I grew up on a dairy farm, way out in the country of central Florida, and the big department stores like Burdines, Maas Brothers, and Robinsons were the most glamourous, luxurious places I’d ever seen.

These women were going to have to deal with a few murders. And the fact they don’t care much for each other.

As I researched, departments stores, history, fashion, and life in Florida in the 1950’s these characters came alive. First was Audrey, a former fashion model and the personal secretary to the owner of Wynton’s Department Store who may be the most hated woman around town. Miss Vivien, the owner and designer for Wynton’s bridal salon, who fights being set aside because she’s growing older. Mary Jo, a young wife and mother who longs to be at home but must take a job at Wynton’s to save her family. Lastly, Gigi, a girl who’s tired of the tough breaks in her life and hopes a new job at Wynton’s will bring her better fortune.

I wanted their experiences in the story to be true-to-life for that period and drew from stories and memories my own mother shared with me when I was growing up. I had so much fun writing about The Women of Wynton’s as they worked their way through mayhem, murders, and a Christmas parade, but also learned much about the women in this period of history. It is my hope my readers will too.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 2

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 2

Stories By Gina, August 3 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 3

Pause for Tales, August 4

Texas Book-aholic, August 4

Inspired by fiction, August 5

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 7

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, August 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys , August 8

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 9

Simple Harvest Reads, August 10 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Paperbacks and Throwbacks, August 10

Book Looks by Lisa, August 11

Cover Lover Book Review, August 12

For Him and My Family, August 13

Lights in a Dark World, August 14

Jeanette’s Thoughts, August 14

Labor Not in Vain, August 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-Gift card and a print 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/2d090/the-women-of-wynton-s-celebration-tour-giveaway

Something Borrowed by Rachel Scott McDaniel, Allison Pittman, and Susie Finkbeiner // JustRead Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Something Borrowed by Rachel Scott McDaniel, Allison Pittman, and Susie Finkbeiner, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Something Borrowed
Authors: Rachel Scott McDaniel, Allison Pittman & Susie Finkbeiner
Publisher: Kregel
Release Date: August 13, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Romance Collection

One Perfect Dress--three different Love stories 

In this brand-new novella collection, three renowned Christian historical fiction authors trace generations of wartime romances through a special wedding dress with love sewn into its seams.

 "A Heart in Disguise" by Rachel Scott McDaniel Clara Westlake loves her job as a seamstress in the US "Camouflage Corps," sewing suits for snipers and contributing to the war effort. But when she overhears a threat against her beloved New York City, the Great War comes too close to home--except no one believes her forewarning. She must recruit Marcus Reeves, a childhood friend searching for his purpose after suffering a devastating war injury. As they search for answers together, they may also uncover a love that lasts.  

"A Letter to Eli" by Allison Pittman Bette and Alice are lifelong friends, trying to make a good life for themselves in New York City while World War II rages. It's never far away from their thoughts--not with Alice's fiancé serving at sea, in danger every minute. That's a worry Bette doesn't envy. Then a secret letter reunites her with her soldier ex-boyfriend, now wounded and back in the States. But can the innocent love these two had before the war be rekindled in the face of tragedy?  

"A Daffodil in the Dress" by Susie Finkbeiner Kate Becker and Ike Finch have worked together at his family's bookstore since Kate's husband died in the early days of the Vietnam War. She has her daughter, Eloise, to take care of and bills to pay, and this job was a godsend. A second love is not in the cards, especially not with the world still teetering on the edge of insanity. But when Ike brings little Eloise special flowers one spring day, Kate begins to look at him as more than an employer. Is falling in love again worth the risk?

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

Review: 

A Heart in Disguise by Rachel Scott McDaniel

After getting fired from working on a movie set, Clara Westlake joins the US Camouflage Corps, sewing uniforms for the US snipers. Clara is a sharp young woman, with a gift for sewing. I liked how she uses her gifts to help protect the soldiers, and reconnects with an old friend, while investigating suspicious behavior. there is a lot going on, and I liked the plot that kept me on my toes. Engaging plot, and riveting characters!

A Letter to Eli by Allison Pittman

A sweet romance with a little bit slower start. Bette and Alice are two friends working in New York,  sharing an apartment, and trying to aid the war effort. The author did a great job of bringing New York to life during WWII, and I liked the strong themes of friendship. An enjoyable, and hopeful read, set during WWII. 

A Daffodil in the Dress by Susie Finkbeiner

A heartwarming second chance romance, set during the Vietnam War. A sweet story about finding love again after loss. Kate and Ike work together in his family's bookstore, I really liked the friendship between Ike and Eloise, and how Kate and Ike began to see each other in a new light. This was an enjoyable and hopeful read with wonderful characters and plenty of heart. 

Overall, a wonderful collection of stories that follow a wedding dress and the women it touches throughout the years. Highly enjoyable novella collection by some of my favorite authors!

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

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About the Authors

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis and the RWA Touched by Love awards, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. She enjoys life in Ohio with her husband and two kids.

Connect with Rachel at rachelmcdaniel.net to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Allison Pittman is the author of multiple award-winning books, including The Seamstress and For Time and Eternity. She is also copresident of a Christian writers group in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas.

Connect with Allison at allisonkpittman.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Susie Finkbeiner is the author of The All-American and All Manner of Things which were both selected as Michigan Notable Books. Her other novels include Stories That Bind Us, The Nature of Small Birds, and the Pearl Spence series. Susie and her husband live in West Michigan with their three children.

Connect with Susie at susiefinkbeiner.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed print copy of Something Borrowed and some book-related goodies!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 12, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 19, 2024. 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. Book will be signed by at least one of the authors. 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!

Between Flowers and Bones by Carolyn Leiloglou, illustrated by Vivienne To // Review

My Review: 

Picking up shortly after the close of the previous book, Vincent is still becoming accustomed to his gifts. Meanwhile, Georgia feels sidelined, by all the attention that Vincent is getting, but as the danger grows will Georgia's gift be the key to saving her family?

A fun sequel that dives right back into the story, but this time from Georgia's perspective. And I really liked that creative choice. It was fun to see the Restorationists from her perspective having grown up among them her whole life. I also liked getting to see another side of Grampa, but one of my favorite characters in this book had to be Mr. Ortiz. 

An action-packed read, rich in art history, with a solid message of how each of us have unique gifts that are all important and useful no matter how flashy, which was also tied in nicely with themes of faith and family. A great addition to the middle grade series, that left me wanting more! 

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

A Tenuous Betrothal by Jen Geigle Johnson // Review

Lucie's Review: 

 Brought together by a years long agreement made by their parents, Rhianna and Marc decide to dissolve their betrothal to avoid marrying a stranger. Rhi accepts Marc's offer to help her secure a husband, travelling from Wales to Oldenburg, but will their growing feelings for each other change their minds?

A sweet regency romance, that seems to evoke inspiration from some classic fairy tales. I liked seeing Rhi and Marc get to know and trust each other. Marc is a highly responsible man, with a strong sense of duty towards those under his care. He has a wonderful family, and I really liked getting to know them. 

This was a fun read, with great character interaction and charm. It is a highly enjoyable read, with plenty going on, and likable protagonists. Definitely, a wonderful read that is more than the sum of its parts!

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

Cole and Laila are Just Friends by Bethany Turner // Review

My Review: 

When Cole's life is upended he decides to move away from Adelaide Springs, and start over in the big city, but can he walk away from his best friend? 

A fun friends to lovers rom-com. Fluffy and full of whimsy, Cole and Laila are adorable together, and I loved their playful rapport. Though it did seem rather unrealistic that at 38 and 39, and best friends their whole lives in a small town that they hadn't figured out that there might be more to their friendship a lot sooner! So in that regard it seemed longer than it needed to be and predictable, but in a comfortable favorite t-shirt kind of way. 

Clean in a hallmark kind of way, but there were definitely moments that were more on the suggestive side. It was fun seeing Brynn and Sebastian after their wedding, as well the New York side of them. In the end it was a fun read, cute plot, and I liked the effort behind having older protagonists. 

Also, I would like to note that while clean, it is marketed as a Christian fiction, and there isn't really any mention of Christian faith at all. 

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

Recapturing the Glory of Christmas: A 25 Day Advent Devotional by R. Albert Mohler Jr.

My Review: 

If you want an advent devotional that reaches beyond the saccharine sweet, and instead points to the gloriously true reason for wonder during the Christmas season, then look no further than the newest devotional from R. Albert Mohler. 

25 devotionals leading up to December 25th, delve into our need, and God's resounding answer. A Biblically sound devotional, more sobering at times, but all the more glorious in magnifying the reason we celebrate God's fulfillment of His promise. Well written, and great for sharing with your family. I was greatly encouraged when reading this each day, and liked how it emphasized celebrating this wonder all year long. 

Overall, a well-done devotional that can be turned to year after year, and appropriate in every season. It would make an excellent gift, as well as family devotional. Highly recommend. 

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

When Stone Wings Fly by Karen Barnett // Review

My Review:

A beautiful and evocative time slip novel set in the Smokey Mountains, that follows two women more than 80 years apart as they discover the meaning of roots, faith, and home. 

Kieran Lucas had a troubled upbringing, and has just recently reconnected with her long-lost grandmother, who is suffering with dementia. She hopes to bring comfort to her grandmother, by recovering the lost family heirloom that she has been asking after, the only problem is that where it is buried is now part of the Smokey Mountain National Park. Will a handsome park ranger, thwart her plans to recover the heirloom?

Rosie McCauley is fighting to save her family's homestead from the encroaching offers from the government to buy her out and add the only she and her sister have ever known to the newly formed Smokey Mountain National Park. The arrival of a young ornithologist, Benton Fuller upends her simple way of life and has her asking questions about how deep her roots are tied to the land. 

A stunning and emotional dual timeline novel, that delves into the rich history of the accumulation of the land the Smokey Mountain National Park sits on. It was a little slow to start for me as there are multiple characters that we follow, 4 in all, Kieran, Zach, Rosie, and Benton. But after getting acquainted with each of them, I was quickly pulled in. 

A wonderful read, with complex characters that captured my heart. Kieran has had a complicated life, but she has big heart for others, evidenced by her job and care for her grandmother. Rosie loves her home, and will do anything to protect her sister, Lorna, who is considered slow. Lorna has a big heart, but the innocence of a child, and her ways aren't always understood by their neighbors. I loved how Benton embraces Lorna as part of Rosie's life, getting to know the sisters while studying the birds on their land. Zach is a rule follower, and he is intrigued by Kieran's quest to find the family heirloom, I liked his strong commitment to his faith, as well as his close-knit family. 

Overall, a well done read that drew me in with its combination of a riveting plot, and complex characters. I loved the strong themes of faith, forgiveness, and family woven throughout. Well worth the read, and highly recommend!

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