Organizing for the Rest of Us: 100 Realistic Strategies to Keep Any House Under Control by Dana K. White

ABOUT THE BOOK

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by the chaos in your home? Do you dream of a space that's not just organized but also easy to maintain?

In this transformative guide, Dana K. White, the bestselling author of “Decluttering at the Speed of Life”, presents 100 practical and achievable strategies to help you reclaim control of your living space—no matter how busy your life may be.

Drawing from her experiences as a recovering slob turned organizational expert, Dana delivers refreshing insights and actionable tips that resonate with real-life challenges. From tackling overflowing closets to managing paperwork chaos, each strategy is designed to fit seamlessly into your daily routine, making the journey to a clutter-free home both effortless and rewarding.

Unlike traditional organizing manuals that offer lofty ideals, “Organizing for the Rest of Us” meets you where you are, providing realistic solutions that work for real people with real lives. With Dana’s witty and relatable approach, you’ll be empowered to embrace imperfection and celebrate progress, one small victory at a time.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a career professional, or simply someone tired of feeling weighed down by clutter, this book is your roadmap to a simpler, more joyful life. Say goodbye to overwhelm and hello to the peace and tranquility of a home that truly reflects your values and priorities.

Sound like something you need? Here's a purchase link!

MY THOUGHTS.....

I admit it, I am a long-time messy gal! I have sentimental attachments to many of the possessions in my home and it's sometimes hard to keep them organized. That's one reason that I was so eager to read "Organizing for the Rest of Us"! Author Dana K. White states in the subtitle that she has "100 realistic strategies to keep any house under control" and this is exactly what I found! From the first strategy to the last, this book is filled with encouraging tips, and ironically, the last strategy deals with the sentimental stuff that I adore!

White offers logical advice that is easy to follow and she writes in a conversational style that is a joy to read. Yes, I've seen some of her ideas before but she's motivated me to try them again. Organizing for the Rest of Us is an attractive hardback book with a beautiful ribbon bookmark, tips that are organized into ten chapters, and several captivating color photos! This book is a treasure that you'll want to keep but it's also a book worthy of being given as a present!

I know that the author frowns on a lot of books lying around but this is one that I plan to keep at my fingertips. I know that old habits die hard and I will need the reminders and encouragement to help me keep my home under control!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher via FrontGate Women's Blogger Network. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chapter 5 is short, with only 5 strategies, but it's oh, so informative! 

Strategy 51 tells us to Just say no to Keep Boxes! 

Keep Boxes are procrastination stations. 

A Keep Box is an excuse not to make a final decision.

Not allowing yourself to procrastinate is the key to decluttering.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dana K. White is the creator of the No Mess Decluttering Method and (much to her own surprise) a Decluttering Expert. Dana shares realistic home management strategies and a message of hope for the hopelessly messy in her books: Organizing for the Rest of Us, Decluttering at the Speed of Life (a Wall Street Journal bestseller), and How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind. Dana teaches her strategies through her blog, podcast, and videos at ASlobComesClean.com and trains coaches in her unique decluttering process at DeclutteringCoaches.com.

You can also follow her on Facebook     Instagram

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The Protector (Mifflin County Mystery #1) by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Mysterious Disappearance Shakes an Amish Family’s Faith In book one of A Mifflin County Mystery series, 

Rosa Petersheim has disappeared from the Big Valley without a trace. Norman always considered himself his sister’s protector and can’t believe she would have left home of her own accord—so he must have failed her. He throws all he has into helping the authorities search for Rosa, while trying to support his parents and siblings who are struggling both mentally and physically. 

Salina Swarey loves Norman and hopes they are headed toward marriage, but his obsession with Rosa’s whereabouts is driving them apart. 

Can Norman find a place of peace and contentment if he never learns where Rosa is? 

MY THOUGHTS.....

A young Amish woman goes missing, there are no clues about her disappearance, and her family members are left with unanswered questions that threaten to tear their family apart! Did she leave home willingly, or is there someone or something that's preventing her return? Author Wanda E. Brunstetter shares Rosa Petersheim's intriguing story in the first book of a new series, and her writing skills have never been more evident. The character development is excellent and the portrayed emotions are spot on! Rosa's father wavers between denial and bitterness, her mother Elsie experiences overwhelming grief, and there's one sister who hopes to become her mother's "new favorite". And then there's Norman, the brother who blames himself for not protecting Rosa. He dedicates his life to a desperate search that may end up destroying his own future happiness!

The Protector is set in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania in the Amish community of Belleville so the suggestion that Rosa may have willingly left her Amish community presents an intriguing dilemma. Will this community support the Petersheims or will they be censored? We're reminded that tragedy and loss are universal, surface emotions are often misleading, and none of us can truly understand another person's feelings. Families can be strengthened, or they can be destroyed by stress and grief!

This well-written book kept me fully engaged with its romance, mystery, and inspiring message of faith. I recommend The Protector to all who enjoy Amish fiction, and I look forward to the next Mifflin County Mystery!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and receive numerous awards.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and family ties. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her  Website  Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest

A Mifflin County Mystery

The Protector

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Shield of the Mighty (The King's Men, #2) by Connilyn Cossette

ABOUT THE BOOK

Captured by the Philistines as a young boy, Zevi has grown into a formidable warrior. As a captain in King Saul's army, he is assigned a crucial mission: Recruit soldiers, gather tribute for the royal coffers, and find talented artisans for the king's court. But when he is sent to Maresha, the town he was forced to leave as a child, he faces a startling truth--the elder council rejects King Saul and his campaign against their enemies.

Yochana, a widow and skilled woman of business, is captivated by a stranger who enters her perfume shop. Upon discovering he is not only a soldier but a captain responsible for enlisting young men to die in battle, fury and pain from her past loss resurfaces, threatening to consume her. But when Zevi's actions in Maresha entangle Yochana in his radical scheme, they're forced to confront present dangers and past scars.

Embark on a journey through ancient Israel with bestselling and award-winning author Connilyn Cossette in this exhilarating tale of vengeance, justice, and healing.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

This book proves what I've already discovered, that Connilyn Cossette excels in writing biblical and historical fiction! In this mesmerizing story, Shield of the Mighty, she continues the saga of four cousins living in Israel during the reign of King Saul. One of the cousins, Zevi, is now a captain in King Saul's army, and he's been assigned the tasks of finding additional soldiers to fight the Philistines and also recruit talented artists for the king's court. His return to his hometown is both troubling and exhilarating because it's there that he meets the lovely Yochana. He is instantly attracted to her, and even though she takes a little longer to return his feelings, the wait is worth it! Together, Zevi and Yochana took my breath away!

I've read most of Cossette's books and I admire her efforts to weave in-depth research with the truth of God's Word. I loved seeing Yochana's skills in making healing perfumes and I enjoyed the many insights into the culture of life during Old Testament times. Engaging characters and swoon-worthy romance are strong elements in this riveting tale that includes battles fought, consuming revenge, and intense mistrust, but the overriding themes are forgiveness and trust. Forgiving oneself, forgiving others, and trusting that God is with you and that you are being shielded by the Mighty!

If you're looking for biblical fiction that keeps you turning the pages, grab a copy of Shield of the Mighty, I can't wait to see what's next in The King's Men series!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. These are my honest thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Connilyn Cossette is a Christy Award and Carol Award winning author whose books have been found on both ECPA and CBA bestseller lists. When she is not engulfed in the happy chaos of homeschooling two teenagers, devouring books whole, or avoiding housework, she can be found digging into the rich ancient world of the Bible to discover gems of grace that point to Jesus and weaving them into an immersive fiction experience. Although she and her husband have lived all over the country in their twenty-plus years of marriage, they currently call a little town south of Dallas, Texas their home. 

Connect with Connilyn at her Website  Twitter  Facebook  Amazon  Instagram  Pinterest

THE KING'S MEN

Voice of the Ancient

Shield of the Mighty

View all my reviews

Target Acquired (Lake City Heroes, #2) by Lynette Eason

ABOUT THE BOOK

Tough-as-nails Kenzie King has finally earned her place as a tactical medic on a SWAT team. But not everyone on the all-male team accepts her. Rumor is, she didn't get the position because of what she could do but because of who she knew. Which means she has to work harder and longer than anyone else to prove herself.

Cole Garrison is a man with deep faith who is finally ready to settle down and build a family of his own--if he can find the right person, that is. Kenzie sure has set off his interest meter, but trouble seems to follow in her wake. Since she joined the team, someone has begun to ambush and pick off team members, one by one.

It's all hands on deck to discover the culprit and end the killing. Can Kenzie and Cole put aside their differences and work together as a team? Or will their budding attraction be snuffed out by a sniper's bullet?

As you've come to expect from bestselling author Lynette Eason's stories, this tightly wound plot unfurls at breakneck speed and will leave you breathless.

MY THOUGHTS.....

New SWAT team member Kenzie King finds herself the target of a killer and Cole Garrison becomes her protector in this contemporary story that's set in Lake City, North Carolina. There is, however, a satisfying historical element as author Lynette Eason shares entries from a journal written almost a century before by Cole's grandmother, Eliza Crane. Who would imagine that a tragic event from 1947 would be such a relevant part of Kelsey and Cole's current story?

I loved Target Acquired! I loved the surprising connection between Kenzie and Cole that reached back through two generations and the twists, turns, and non-stop action that kept me turning the pages. My heart was captured by the swoon-worthy attraction between Kenzie and Cole and my detective skills were tested by some clever revelations! Throw in an inspiring faith element and the result is a captivating read for fans of romantic Christian suspense!

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous awards including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll, and more. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network.

Lynette teaches at writing conferences all over the country and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), and Faith, Hope, and Love.

Learn more at her Website    Facebook    Twitter  Instagram

LAKE CITY HEROES

Double Take

Target Acquired

View all my reviews

Unraveling Killer Secrets by Shannon Redmon

ABOUT THE BOOK

She looked a criminal in the eye… …and now she’s a target 

After discovering the scene of her friend’s murder, forensic photographer Sasha Kane barely escapes alive. But snapping a photo puts her and her son directly in the killer’s sights…and under the protection of her ex-boyfriend Detective Judah Walker. Stunned that Sasha kept their boy a secret, Judah must put his distrust aside to protect his new family. But with the killer closing in, their future hinges on whether they can survive long enough for justice to prevail.

PURCHASE LINKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Sasha Kane's skills as a forensic photographer prove to be a double-edged sword in this intriguing new book! The photos that she took at a crime scene could be valuable to the police, but they've now made her the target of a dangerous killer who's also a member of a crime gang! Unraveling Killer Secrets is an exciting blend of twists, turns, and clues that just don't add up, but author Shannon Redmon doesn't stop there. She adds the complications of a secret that Sasha's kept hidden from the detective who's now assigned to the case. Detective Judah Walker...her ex-fiance!

Believe me, you'll want to grab a copy of Unraveling Killer Secrets if you're looking for realistic characters, non-ending suspense, and an emotional story of forgiveness and second chances! Redmon delivers another story that kept me turning the pages, but she also weaves an inspiring faith message into her thrilling plot. I recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Shannon Redmon remembers the first grown-up book she checked out from the neighborhood bookmobile. A Victoria Holt novel, with romance, intrigue, and ballroom parties, encouraged her desire to create inspiring stories. Her first novel, Cave of Secrets, was published by Love Inspired Suspense. When she's not writing, you can find her spending time with her husband, two boys and little white dog in the mountains of Western North Carolina.

Learn more by visiting her Website

Follow Shannon on   Facebook     Twtter     Instagram

Books by Shannon Redmon

Cave of Secrets

Secrets Left Behind

Mistaken Mountain Abduction

Christmas Murder Cover-Up

Unraveling Killer Secrets

View all my reviews

Hidden Secrets Between Them (Hope Crossing, 5) by Mindy Obenhaus

ABOUT THE BOOK

He never meant to be a father.

But it could be the life he’s always wanted.

In Hope Crossing, Texas, nurse practitioner Kirsten Reynolds has found her dream job. The only problem is that the tiny town also has Deputy Brady James…the father of her four-year-old sons. And he doesn’t know the boys are his. But as he steps into this new role he never planned for, Brady gets a hopeful glimpse into a life with children. Will he let the fear of the unknown keep him from a future he never imagined…or will an adorable pair of twins—and their mother—change his mind?

MY THOUGHTS.....

Two adorable secrets are the basis for this book that's set in one of my favorite fictional places. Deputy Brady James has no idea that he's the father of twin four-year-old boys until Kirsten Reynolds takes a new job in Hope Crossing, Texas. What will his reaction be to this shocking news?

Author Mindy Obenhaus takes us back to Hope Crossing for a touching story of love lost, hope revived, and a delightful surprise to sweeten the journey. Hidden Secrets Between Them is a realistic portrayal of two people struggling to do what's best for their children. It is an inspiring story of forgiveness, second chances, and recognizing that God must be the One in charge. I recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

I received a copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer, and the occasional coyote, mountain lion, or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking, and watching the Hallmark Channel.

Connect with Mindy

website | facebook | twitter | pinterest | goodreads | bookbub

HOPE CROSSING 

The Cowgirl's Redemption

A Christmas Bargain

Loving the Rancher's Children

Her Christmas Healing

Hidden Secrets Between Them

View all my reviews

By Evening's Light (Amish Memories, #3) by Leslie Gould

ABOUT THE BOOK

Treva Zimmerman finds herself at a crossroads in life after a heartbreaking failed relationship. Returning to Lancaster County to visit her Amish grandparents and elderly aunt, Treva plans to leave her Plain heritage behind for a fresh start in Alaska. Torn between the expectations of her community and her own desires, she seeks to follow her own path--but all that changes when her aunt Rosene suffers a heart attack.

As her aunt recounts her own past--a poignant journey through Cold War Germany and a fervent desire to escape her Plain life to search for a lost love--Treva is determined to discover the whereabouts of Rosene's former sweetheart. Amid the turmoil, their former farmhand Gabe Johnson returns unexpectedly, throwing Treva's plans into further disarray.

While working hard to save the farm and explore her own destiny, Treva confronts her deep-rooted ties to her heritage and must decide if she will embrace her family's legacy or break free from the pressures of her past to forge a life of her own.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I enjoyed the first book in the Amish Memories series and after reading this third and final book, I am convinced that I MUST go back to read the second! By Evening's Light is a captivating dual-time book that's set in both present-day Lancaster County and in Germany during 1948 & 1949. Treva Zimmerman's decision to leave the Plain lifestyle sends her back to visit her family in Lancaster County but hearing the memories of her great-aunt's time in Germany may alter her plans once again! Who would have guessed that an Amish girl could have done so much and loved so deeply?

I love how author Leslie Gould connects the two timelines by sharing Rosene's account of her time in post-WWII Germany. Gould flawlessly weaves historical details into a remarkable tale that's filled with adventure, danger, and romance. She reveals in her author's notes that both Red Cross workers and mission workers were known to have been involved in espionage activities. This is why I love historical fiction so much: I always learn something I didn't know!

This engaging story of faith, resilience, and second chances affirms how the past impacts the future. I highly recommend By Evening's Light to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslie Gould is the best-selling and award-winning author of over forty novels. She loves research, traveling, and church history. She and her husband live in Portland, Oregon, and have four grown children and one grandchild. http://www.lesliegould.com,

Learn more by visiting Leslie's    Website     Facebook  Twitter    Instagram

AMISH MEMORIES

A Brighter Dawn

This Passing Hour

By Evening's Light

View all my reviews

Where Trees Touch the Sky: A Redwood National Park Novel by Karen Barnett

ABOUT THE BOOK

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.

AMAZON  

MY THOUGHTS.....

I've just been given an armchair visit to a place I've always wanted to see, the Redwood Forest, and I was quickly immersed in this captivating dual-time story that's set in both 1920 and 1972. Both stories are filled with history and romance, and they each have hidden secrets, indecision, and heartaches on the horizon! The 1920 story centers around Marion Baker's efforts to save the beloved redwoods from destruction and the 1972 focuses on June Turner's struggle to become the first female park ranger in the state of California. Their stories are set almost 50 years apart, but Marion and June are connected by family, their love of nature, their steely determination, and the magnificent Redwood trees of California!

I loved the characters, the romance, and the history of the Redwood National Park. Where Trees Touch the Sky showcases this author's unique talent in weaving fact, fiction, and faith, and I felt like I was there during the struggles, the heartache, and the moments spent with God and nature. I recommend this book to all who enjoy historical Christian romance, and I applaud Karen Barnett for another excellent read!

I received a copy of this book from the author and Kregel Publications. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of the Vintage National Parks Novels, the Golden Gate Chronicles (Out of the Ruins, Beyond the Ashes, Through the Shadows), and MISTAKEN. She lives in Oregon with her husband, two kids, and a bevy of furry friends. You can learn more about Karen's writing journey at http://www.KarenBarnettBooks.com.

You can also follow her on    Facebook     X      Instagram     Pinterest

NATIONAL PARK NOVELS

When Stone Wings Fly

Where Trees Touch the Sky

View all my reviews

Her Loyal Companion (Triple C Ranch, #3; K-9 Companions 24) by Heidi Main

ABOUT THE BOOK

To train these dogs

They’ll need time, patience…and love

Training service dogs is Autumn McCaw’s passion. She won’t let anything jeopardize her business’s chance of success, including her former love Wyatt Nelson. But with a looming deadline to prove herself capable, she has no choice but to hire the one man who hurt her years ago. Relying on the single dad is tough—especially since he has trust issues of his own. But can Autumn and Wyatt overcome their past to save her business…and open their hearts to love?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Autumn McCaw still carries scars from a painful past, but she's determined to carve a new future as a trainer of service dogs. The person best qualified to help her achieve this goal is the man who wounded her so deeply! Will her desire to help others be stronger than her doubts about Wyatt Nelson?

There are so many reasons to love this book! Two adults in search of a brighter future, a little girl suffering from pain and trauma, and an enlightening focus on the need for service dogs are all a part of Heidi Main's emotional story. Her Loyal Companion is a poignant tale of forgiveness, second chances, and new beginnings, as Amber and Wyatt learn to trust God and each other. Grab a copy of this third book in the Triple C Ranch series and enjoy a lovely return visit to Serenity, Texas! I recommend Her Loyal Companion to all who enjoy sweet Christian romance.

I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heidi Main writes sweet inspirational romance novels set in small towns. She lives in the central North Carolina’s suburbs, but dreams of acreage and horseback riding, which is probably why her novels include wide-open ranches and horses.

She loves to take walks, garden, play board games, curl up with a good book, and watch HGTV. A perfect Saturday is lounging on the deck with her husband and watching the many birds in their backyard. Learn more by visiting her Website or following her on Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

TRIPLE C RANCH SERIES

A Nancy for the Rancher's Twins

A Family for the Orphans

Her Loyal Companion

View all my reviews

A Certain Man (A Certain Future, Book 1) by Linda Dindzans

ABOUT THE BOOK

Mara is a young Samaritan beginning to discover her love for Samuel—and his for her. Soon she will be deemed mature enough to marry. Her hopes are dashed when her greedy father brokers a match with the cruel son of the wealthy High Priest of Shechem. When her loathsome betrothed is killed, her beloved Samuel must run for his life. Mara and Samuel struggle to survive and reunite during the treacherous and scandalous times of the Bible under the merciless rule of Rome.

Along the way, they are entangled within the snares of such notable figures as King Herod, Herodias, Pontius Pilate, Caiaphas, and Salome.

The heartrending tales of Mara and Samuel are interwoven with their desperate love story. Before either meets Yeshua the Nazarene face to face. Before He sets the political, religious, and spiritual landscape on fire. And before either Mara or Samuel are immortalized in the gospels.

MY THOUGHTS.....

This new book is a fascinating blend of fictional details and biblical facts. As I continued to read about Mara's tragic life, I was reminded of another woman who seemed forever doomed to a life without love and happiness. And then, she met the One who promised to supply all of her needs with His Living Water!

I love the twists, turns, and intriguing hints that are seamlessly woven with parables from The Holy Bible. The well-defined characters possess the best and worst traits of mankind, and author Linda Dindzans shares their powerful interactions with people that we already know. including Lazarus, his sisters, Mary and Martha, and a charismatic Nazarene known as Yeshua.

It's hard to imagine that A Certain Man is a debut novel! I was totally invested in this wonderful story and I look forward to the next book in the A Certain Future series.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Linda Dindzans, M.D. is a writer with the heart of a healer who offers readers stories of redemption and restoration. Though her compelling characters inhabit the treacherous times of the Bible, Linda believes there is nothing new under the sun. The battles of her characters still speak to hearts today. And only a profound encounter with the Son can transform them from victims to victors.

Follow her on Facebook     X     Instagram

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An Alaskan Blessing (Serenity Peak, 2) by Belle Calhoune

ABOUT THE BOOK

An infant on her doorstep...might lead to the life she’s always wanted.


When Skye Drummond finds an abandoned baby outside her family’s general store, she’s determined to foster the girl. But the only way she can is by agreeing to regular check-ins from Trooper Ryan Campbell — her ex-fiancé’s best friend. Skye’s convinced that Ryan somehow had a role in her breakup, but for the sweet baby, she’ll play nice. Their tenuous friendship turns into something more as he helps her with the baby. But Ryan’s ongoing investigation into the baby’s parents threatens Skye’s custody. Could it threaten any hope of a shared future?

AMAZON     HARLEQUIN

MY THOUGHTS.....

Talk about a heartwarming story! Sweet romance and second chances are some of my favorite tropes but the addition of an abandoned baby and two people in search of happiness kept me turning the pages for more! Author Belle Calhoune takes us back to the charming small town of Serenity Peak, Alaska in an emotionally charged story of a young woman, her one-time friend, and a baby in need of a home. Calhoune instinctively knows how to tug at our heartstrings and Baby Lula's abandonment is no exception! Skye Drummond immediately falls in love with this precious baby girl, but will she also lose her heart to the State Trooper who's monitoring the case? Can their relationship flourish or will it wilt under reminders of the past?

I loved the endearing characters, realistic drama, and the beautiful Alaskan setting. An Alaskan Blessing has miscommunication and misconceptions but there's also hope, faith, and forgiveness. I look forward to more books in the Serenity Peak series and I recommend An Alaskan Blessing to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance!

I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Belle Calhoune writes heartwarming, inspirational romance novels set in small, cozy towns. Married to her college sweetheart and living in southern Connecticut, she is the mother of two girls. Born and raised in Massachusetts, she is one of five children. Growing up across the street from a public library allowed her to become an avid reader who aspired to be a romance writer. When she isn't writing, she enjoys reading, spending time in Cape Cod, traveling and enjoying time with friends and family.

Belle hopes her books will provide readers with inspiration, entertainment, and an escape from day-to-day life.

Learn more about Belle at  her Website  Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Pinterest  

SERENITY PEAK

Her Alaskan Return

An Alaskan Blessing

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Between the Sound and Sea by Amanda Cox

ABOUT THE BOOK

Every family has its secrets. Josephina Harris wouldn't mind if her family still had a few of their own after a lawsuit tarnishes their name. When an opportunity opens to become a temporary keeper of a decommissioned lighthouse on a North Carolina island, she jumps at the chance to escape her small town to oversee its restoration.

As the work begins, "Joey" discovers strange notes tucked deep in the crevices of the old stone walls--pages torn from a lighthouse keeper's log signed by someone named Mae who recounts harrowing rescues at sea. Fascinated by a woman lighthouse keeper, Joey digs into the past only to discover there's never been a record of a lighthouse keeper by that name.

When things start to go amiss on the island, locals are convinced that it is the ghost of the lighthouse keeper and his daughter who were lost at sea during World War II. As Joey sifts through decades of rumors and legends and puts together the pieces of the past, what emerges is a love story--one that's not over yet.

Multiple Christy Award winner Amanda Cox is your guide upon the raging seas of young love, heartbreaking loss, and learning to risk it all for a chance at happiness in this timeless novel.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

The history and mystery surrounding a North Carolina lighthouse are the basis of this fascinating book but author Amanda Cox layers it with so much more! Between the Sound and Sea is a dual timeline story that shares the current-day restoration of a dilapidated lighthouse with the events that surrounded this landmark during World War II. This is a story of love lost, hope regained, and the healing that comes when we least expect it.

I love the multi-layered characters who find healing through their efforts to revive this beloved lighthouse. There is a sweet romance, but the primary focus is on friends, family, and memories. Between the Sound and Sea tugged at my heartstrings and inspired me with its message of restoration that came from faith, forgiveness, and second chances. I highly recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but there was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amanda is the Christy Award-winning author of The Edge of Belonging, The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery, and He Should Have Told the Bees. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Bible and theology and a master’s degree in professional counseling, but her first love is communicating through story. Her studies and her interactions with hurting families over a decade have allowed her to create multidimensional characters that connect emotionally with readers.

She lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with her husband and their three children. 

Learn more at her Website     Facebook      Twitter     Instagram

OTHER BOOKS BY AMANDA COX

The Edge of Belonging

The Secret Keeper of Old Depot Grocery

He Should Have Told the Bees

Between the Sound and Sea

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Tracking Tilly (Little Red Truck Mysteries, #1) by Janice Thompson

ABOUT THE BOOK 

Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block? 

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

The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.

MY THOUGHTS.....

"Today, the victory would be mine. Papaw's truck would belong to the Hadley family once again, a piece of his legacy home to roost, and Mason could go back to doing whatever it was he did these days. I couldn't care less."

Raelyn Hadley's joy in being the successful auction bidder for her grandfather's beloved red truck soon turns to dismay when Tilly is stolen, and this is when the fun journey begins. Tracking Tilly has great characters, the mystery of Tilly's disappearance, and a reconnection between Raelyn and her old high school flame, Mason Frederick. I laughed out loud at Raelyn's snide comments, Mason's playful winks, and the obvious chemistry that Raelyn desperately tried to ignore. It didn't take a genius to know that a sweet romance was being revived in their small Texas town!

This is the first book in a new series from author Janice Thompson and it's a great introduction to The Little Red Truck Mysteries. This enjoyable story showcases family, memories, and the secrets that are often a part of those memories, and it's filled with drama, a light mystery, and second chances. I recommend Tracking Tilly to all who enjoy romantic cozy mysteries.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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.

Learn more by visiting her Website or following her on  Facebook     Twitter     Pinterest

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