About Me I am a retired librarian and I now support books and authors through my reviews.

I have always loved to read and I was able to share that love through my work as a public librarian for 22 1/2 years. I now promote literacy by reading, and then writing reviews. I love to support authors by sharing my reviews with others!

Friday, August 28, 2026

Having Spiritual Conversations with Your Kids: Simple Practices for Deepening Your Faith Together by Katheryn Saunders

Having Spiritual Conversations with Your Kids: Simple Practices for Deepening Your Faith Together (Activities, Questions, & How to Talk to School-Aged Kids & Teens about Christ & More)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Create Stronger Relationships and Deeper Faith with Your Kids and Teens

Do you long to talk about faith with your kids but struggle to find the words, the time, or the right moment? Everyone is busy--with work, school, sports, screens--and somewhere along the way, the values you hoped would define your family fell out of sync with how you're actually living. So where do you begin?

You can start by having meaningful conversations with your kids, creating space in your home and on your calendar to spend time together and talk, and approaching your kids with genuine openness and curiosity about what they think, feel, and believe.

This practical and accessible guide equips you to have meaningful spiritual conversations with your kids. Each chapter offers
● a clear teaching on a Benedictine practice
● a hands-on creative activity
● thoughtful reflection questions designed to spark interest and deepen faith

Whether your children are young or already grown, it's never too late to start conversations that matter!



MY THOUGHTS.....

This is a must-read for anyone with children or grandchildren! It targets parents concerned about the faith journeys of their young children and teens, but I found it applicable for all ages. I admit I wasn't familiar with the Benedictine practice, but Dr. Katheryn Saunders clearly shows its principles in each well-defined chapter that begins with scripture and ends with discussion questions and a closing prayer. Using the stories and examples of Jesus, she sets the stage for open conversation and family activities.

Having Spiritual Conversations with Your Kids
is a well-written resource! I am thrilled to share it with my adult daughter and my 12-year-old granddaughter.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katheryn Saunders has a DMin in leadership and spiritual formation from Portland Seminary, focusing on next-generation faith and giving. She also has a master's degree in teaching and is a licensed chaplain. Dr. Saunders has more than twenty-five years of experience working in the Christian nonprofit world, including more than a decade working for World Vision, where she is currently regional director for philanthropy for the northwest region.


Thursday, August 27, 2026

The Last Noel: A Romantic Suspense Christmas Collection by Sarah Hamaker, Jayna Breigh, and Kimberley Woodhouse

The Last Noel: A Romantic Suspense Christmas Collection
ABOUT THE BOOK

Christmas novellas from three award-winning suspense authors

The Last Noel is a riveting Christmas novella collection with suspense, intrigue, and second-chance romance.


"Do you See What I See?" by Sarah Hamaker

Oakleigh Wright's estranged foster sister reappears late one night desperate to hand off her children. Oakleigh agrees to bring them to their aunt out of state, but her travels are intercepted by a ruthless gang. She turns to her ex, Joseph, for help. Will they rekindle their love as they uncover what the gange seeks?


"Do You Hear What I Hear?" by Jayna Breigh

Trial lawyer Elise Sinclair resigns herself to a lonely Christmas reviewing legal documents—until her renegade fiancĂ©, Jack, reappears. He is jobless, broken, and seeking forgiveness. Can two battered hearts overcome secrets and restore their love?


"Do You Know What I Know?" by Kimberley Woodhouse

When Faith Thibodeaux returns to her Cajun-style food truck in Alaska after an accident, the last thing she expects is to find out that her ex-boyfriend is the executive chef of a new restaurant. When they return to their hometown over the holidays to fundraise, will the "friendly" competition restore their love or rip them apart forever?



MY THOUGHTS.....

Do you enjoy Christmas stories but don't have much time to read during the holidays? This novella collection is the perfect solution! The three novellas are fantastic, and an early release date gives readers time to read them before the holiday rush begins. Each story has a Christmas theme, heartwarming romance, and thrilling suspense, but none are alike! A young woman needs help protecting herself and two foster children from a gang; a lawyer is challenged by a difficult trial case and the unexpected guest she finds on her couch; and a contestant in a cooking competition is victimized by a ruthless competitor. Has the season of 'good will toward men' become infected with evil and corruption?

Talented authors Jayna Breigh, Sarah Hamaker, and Kimberley Woodhouse may have different writing styles, but this only adds to the enjoyment. I recommend THE LAST NOEL to all who enjoy romantic suspense laced with faith, forgiveness, and second chances!

I received a digital ARC from the publisher and NetGalley. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Sarah Hamaker loves writing books “where the hero and heroine fall in love while running for their lives.” She’s written romantic suspense novels and nonfiction books, as well as stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul volumes. As a writers coach, her heart is encouraging writers. She’s a member of ACFW; ACFW Virginia Chapter; and Faith, Hope and Love, as well as the president of Capital Christian Writers Fellowship. Her podcast, “The Romantic Side of Suspense,” can be found wherever you listen to podcasts. Sarah lives in Virginia with her husband, four teenagers, a preschool foster child and three cats.

Learn more by visiting her Website
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Jayna Breigh is an award-winning author of romantic legal dramas. With over a decade of experience practicing “big city law” in Los Angeles, she brings authenticity to her stories, which feature lawyers, courtroom intrigue, senior citizens, and characters overcoming life's toughest challenges. Beyond writing, Jayna has shared her insights as a speaker at women’s retreats and a leader of Bible studies. She’s drawn to humor, inspiration, and painfully cute social media. The only personal drama she indulges in? British period pieces and competitive games of Wordfeud.  

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Want to learn more? Visit her Website     
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Kimberley Woodhouse is the best-selling author of more than twenty-five books who loves the JOY of story. A lover of history and research, she often gets sucked into the past, and then her husband has to lure her out with chocolate. She's spoken to more than 2 million people at more than 2,500 venues and has taught the craft of writing around the country. Married to the love of her life for thirty-plus years, she makes her home in the Poconos. 

You can connect with Kimberley at her Website     Facebook    Instagram    Twitter




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