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!

Monday, July 7, 2025

Spurs and Sparks (Healing Springs Ranch #1) by Jody Hedlund

Spurs and Sparks (Healing Springs Ranch #1)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Is the powerful McQuaid legacy of love only a thing of the past? Or can such a love still happen today?

Tyler McQuaid has been too busy managing his family’s luxury ranch resort to think about love. But when his dad gets sick and may not have long to live, Tyler begins to question what is truly important. He’s already failed once at love and marriage, but how can he say no to his dad’s sickbed wish that he try again?

Kinsey Wingrove, a traveling nurse, prefers to keep her relationships short and sweet, and yes, even shallow. With the losses she’s already experienced in life, it’s just easier that way. When she arrives at Healing Springs Ranch, she clashes with her new patient’s son, the handsome cowboy who runs the place and doesn’t think she’s the right nurse for his dad.

As sparks fly between Tyler and Kinsey, the meddling, matchmaking McQuaid family sees that more can exist between the two than they will acknowledge. Can Tyler accept and move beyond the mistakes of his past to allow for the McQuaid legacy of love—a fast, furious, and forever kind of love? Or will he let Kinsey’s fears push him away forever?Enemies to moreGrumpy bossSingle dadMatchmaking familyGrief from lossHunky cowboysSwoony kisses* The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.







MY THOUGHTS.....

I'm always excited to learn about a new Jody Hedlund book but knowing that the McQuaid family was involved made it even more special. I first fell in love with this family in Hedlund's historical Western series, Colorado Cowboys. The past generations of McQuaid men were known for falling in love 'fast, furious, and forever', but Tyler McQuaid doubted that he could continue this legacy. Until...traveling nurse Kinsey Wingrove arrived to care for his seriously ill father. Could their bickering and volatile relationship be more than just instant dislike?

Tyler and Kinsey take center stage in an emotional story that explains their past hurts and their current insecurities. Neither of them believes that a lasting love is possible, but Tyler's family has other ideas. I loved their matchmaking efforts!

The next book in the Hidden Springs Ranch series is scheduled to release in a few weeks, and four more stories are planned in the future. Grab a copy of Spurs and Sparks for a tantalizing story with unforgettable characters and sweet, sizzling romance that's never offensive. It's a great beach read and a wonderful introduction to this new generation of McQuaids!

I accepted an advance reader copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award. She lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats.

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.  

Learn more at Jody's Website     

Goodreads    Facebook

Twitter     Pinterest     Instagram     BookBub


Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Legends of Gold (Golden State Treasure #2) by Mary Connealy

Legends of Gold (Golden State Treasure #2)
ABOUT THE BOOK

On a risky treasure hunt in the rugged wilderness, can love trump all odds?

After years of solitude, Tilda Muirhead's life takes an unexpected twist when she accepts a teaching position at Two Harts Ranch following her cross-country pursuit of two brothers obsessed with a treasure map left by their grandfather. Tilda is now tasked with educating those mischievous MacKenzie boys, who are bent on remaining out west with the rest of their family until they find the hoped-for treasure. Then a man named Ben arrives, claiming to be her own long-lost brother. Raised as an orphan with no memory of her past, Tilda is both fascinated and wary of Ben's sudden interest in finding her.

When Ben's motives grow increasingly suspect, rancher Josh Hart suggests Tilda and the young MacKenzies set off on a quest with him that aims to protect Tilda while unearthing the map's secrets. As they explore the wilderness, Tilda becomes captivated by the history behind the map, though she doubts it leads to anything more than old artifacts. Yet danger looms ever closer, and Tilda and Josh must rely on faith and their blossoming love to navigate the treacherous path ahead.






MY THOUGHTS.....

Are you ready for another romantic cowboy comedy from Mary Connealy? A chance to travel back to a time when the Western frontier was still untamed, when good guys wore white hats and villains deserved to wear black. This book's for you! Legends of Gold continues the treasure hunt that began in "Whispers of Fortune", as a New York teacher arrives at the Two Hearts Ranch looking for the orphaned brothers who escaped an Orphan Train to search for their grandfather's lost treasure. What follows is an adventure filled with danger, suspense, and a sweet connection between Tilda Muirhead and Josh Hart. Would it be possible for a big-city teacher to adapt to life on a California ranch?

Connealy's female characters are always strong and capable, but Tilda's past contains an unknown secret. Looks like she needs protection from a strong hero, and Josh appears to be the man! I also enjoyed that several characters from previous books are mentioned in Legends of Gold. I loved this reunion with the Stiles sisters, aka The Lumber Baron's Daughters!

Looking for Western adventure with humor, romance, a treasure hunt, and pure inspiration? Grab a copy of Legends of Gold, the second book of the Golden State Treasure series.

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


My rating: 4 of 5 stars 





ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys that also have a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy, and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist. 

Her most recent book series is Wyoming Sunrise.  Other series by Mary Connealy are: The Lumber Baron's' Daughters, Brothers in Arms, The Brides of Hope Mountain, Garrison’s Law, High Sierra Sweethearts, Cimarron Legacy, Wild at Heart, Trouble in Texas, and Kincaid Bride for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing. along with many novellas. 

Mary is the bestselling author of 70 books and novellas and she has nearly a million books in print! 

Learn more at her Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram


Golden State Treasure

Legends of Gold
Riches Beyond Measure

Sunday, June 29, 2025

If Jesus Came to My School by April Graney: Review Tour with Celebrate Lit



About the Book

If Jesus Came to My School

Author: April Graney

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Release Date: June 10, 2025

In this beautifully illustrated picture book, a young girl learns how Jesus’s love can shine at school through her compassion, kindness, and inclusion. In this whimsical tale, a young girl imagines what it would be like if Jesus visited her school as a boy. She would show Jesus around her classroom, introduce her friends and teachers, listen to story time, and eat lunch together! But Jesus wouldn’t stop at learning and sitting in class. He’d invite the lonely to join in on games and find a way to love and get along with everyone. Soon the young girl realizes that even though Jesus doesn’t attend her school, he can live through her. Through rhyming text and vibrant illustrations, children will be inspired to make a difference in their schools through their actions. Because as they treat each other right and classes become families, Jesus truly will be in their school.

 

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is a wonderful children's book! The beautiful illustrations easily capture a child's attention, the rhyming text is fun to read, and the length is just right for their short attention span. It's a perfect choice for parents, grandparents, Sunday school teachers, or youth leaders---what better way to introduce the joy that comes from knowing God's Son?

If Jesus Came to My School tells the sweet story of a little girl who imagines what it would be like to have Jesus at her school. A young Jesus who visits her classroom, meets all of her classmates, sees what she is learning, and even plays with her during recess! Author April Graney captures the joy of having this special little boy visit, but the real magic comes when the little girl realizes,

"But Jesus made a different plan---he wants to live through ME!"

If Jesus Came to My School is perfect for families to read together, but the simple text also makes it a great choice for beginner readers. I especially recommend reading it at the beginning of a new school year. What better way to encourage children to show love and kindness to their classmates and teachers?

I received a complimentary digital copy. There was no obligation for a positive review.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

About the Author


April Graney
 is a teacher at Cookson Hills, a children’s home and school for at-risk students in Oklahoma. She is the author of The Marvelous Maker: A Creation and Redemption Parable and the ECPA Christian Book Award finalist The Marvelous Mud House: A Story of Finding Fullness and Joy. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, April loves studying and teaching the Bible. Her greatest joy has been raising five children with her husband Tom in their crazy, loud, happy house at New Life Ranch, a summer camp and retreat center where they have served for over twenty years.

 

 

 

More from April

When my husband, Tom, was in high school, a classmate leaned over and casually asked, “Hey, would you like to go to church with me sometime?” Tom wasn’t opposed to church. He’d just never been invited before. This invitation got him to a place where he began hearing the gospel. Finally, at a youth rally, my future husband tearfully repented of his sins and trusted in Jesus’ death on the cross for his salvation. He walked down to the center of that arena, with hundreds of others who had done the same. I’m incredibly thankful for his classmate who had the courage at school to ask his friend to come to church, something which changed the entire trajectory of his life.

Our nation’s schools are filled with kids who need to hear the gospel. After encountering the woman at the well, Jesus told his disciples in John 4:35, “I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” I believe this could be said of our schools today. There are nearly 60 million school age children in the United States. The Barna Group reports that nearly half of all public educators are practicing Christians, and 86 percent of Christian families send their children to public school. Christians are in public schools. I hope to support and equip them, by providing tools for them to teach their children about Jesus, the gospel, and his love. I hope to help families to see the fertile soil of our nation’s schools, and be faithful to shine the light and love of Jesus in our schools. They are ripe for harvest.

When school children encounter the love of Jesus, they become places where kindness, love and respect can flourish. With the divisiveness in our nation, it’s so important to teach our children how to treat each other with kindness, inclusion and understanding. We can teach our children that everyone is created and cherished by God. We can help reduce bullying in schools when children celebrate their differences and stand up for each other. Our schools would be places of impact for the individual and the school community. These are the truths that I hoped to communicate in If Jesus Came to My School, and I hope that readers will take these lessons to heart and make a difference in the world!

Blog Stops

Happily Managing a Household of Boys , June 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 22

Artistic Nobody, June 23

Library Lady’s Kids Lit, June 24

Labor Not in Vain, June 25

Cover Lover Book Review, June 26

Guild Master, June 27 (Author Interview)

May Hake, June 27

A Reader’s Brain , June 28 (Author Interview)

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, June 28

Older & Smarter?, June 29

Texas Book-aholic, June 30

Vicky Sluiter, July 1

Fiction Book Lover, July 2 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, July 3

Jodie Wolfe, July 4


Giveaway





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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54242

Thursday, June 26, 2025

The Secrets We Keep: A Mystery by Amy Lillard

The Secrets We Keep: A Mystery
ABOUT THE BOOK

Detective Nate Fisher must go back to the Amish community he left behind and confront his past to help the woman he once loved in this dual-POV mystery, perfect for fans of Linda Castillo.

Back to active duty after an administrative leave of absence for the use of deadly force, the last thing Detective Nathan Fisher wants to do is return to the conservative Amish community he left behind, but when his father passes, he has no choice. Hoping to clear his head and perhaps mend fences with his family, he returns to his small Mississippi hometown despite not being welcome. What was supposed to be a quick visit turns into a prolonged stay when his former love pleads for his help. 

Rachel Hostetler’s world is turned upside down when she finds her brother’s body hanging in her family’s barn. Rachel is sure her brother Albie did not kill himself, but neither her father nor the police are willing to listen. When she spots Nate, her ex, now a detective in Oklahoma, back in Cedar Creek, she knows he is the answer to her problem and begs him to intercede.

As Nate and Rachel come to terms with their shared history, despite knowing nothing can come of the longing they have for each other, the pair must look into Albie’s death as suspects stack up. The truth is out there, but can they find it before Nate has to return to his real life and face the shooting that has him so desperately searching for peace?






MY THOUGHTS.....

Author Amy Lillard has a new notch in her writing belt! The title and cover of The Secrets We Keep immediately captured my attention, but it is the complex story inside that sealed the deal. It is layered with doubts, distrust, and an underlying question about the validity of secrets. We keep secrets with the hopes of avoiding hurt and embarrassment, but are they beneficial? Will they eventually harm the people we are trying to protect?

Lillard shares an engaging tale of a young Amish woman seeking help from an ex-boyfriend visiting Cedar Creek, the Amish community where they both grew up.  He broke her heart when he left, and time has changed them and the innocent lives they once shared! Suspicions relating to suicide, murder, and even bullying have invaded this seemingly peaceful Amish community, so their bittersweet reunion is a poignant reminder of Thomas Wolfe's observations in his classic novel, "You Can't Go Home Again".

This isn't the usual Amish romance or cozy mystery that we've come to expect in an Amy Lillard novel. It's an Amish thriller that will keep you turning the pages to discover the truth!

I received an ARC from the publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Amy Lillard loves nothing more than a good book. Except for her family…and maybe homemade tacos…and nail polish. But reading and writing are definitely way up on the list.

Born and bred in Mississippi, Amy is a transplanted Southern Belle who now lives in Oklahoma with her deputy husband, their genius son, and three spoiled cats. ^..^

When she’s not creating happy endings, she has a variety of hobbies, but her favorite is whatever gets her out of housework.

Amy is an award-winning author with more than forty novels and novellas in print. She loves to hear from readers. 

Learn more by checking Amy's Website     

Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     BookBub     Goodreads

  

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Echoes of Darkness by Darlene L. Turner

Echoes of Darkness
ABOUT THE BOOK

A serial killer stalks a small town, and a police officer must face her family’s dark past to catch him.

The sleepy community of Kenorapeake Falls in northern Ontario seems like somewhere Constable Oaklynn Brock can finally outrun her violent past. That is, until she’s assigned to investigate a series of suspicious deaths. She can’t reveal that she knows how serial killers think because she grew up with one. Yet the eerie similarities between these murders and those committed by her father, known as the Suicide Slayer, hint at a copycat in their midst. But why here and why now?

Caleb Greene of the Canadian Watchers Squad, a special task force, has his own reasons to be wary of working alongside Oaklynn. But with rumors of a local cult known as the Light Paragons gaining power, the stakes are too high to refuse.

As they explore connections between the killings and cult, Oaklynn and Caleb are forced to confront old secrets…and a terrifying new threat. Someone is watching Oaklynn’s every move. They know exactly who she is and what she might be capable of. And soon her biggest fear isn’t just having her past exposed, but that a killer will turn whatever days she has left into a living nightmare
…  



MY THOUGHTS.....

This author has given me many hours of reading pleasure, but this book offers a different perspective of her writing talents. Echoes of Darkness tackles the weighty subjects of cults, family abuse, and emotional upheaval, and even though it is 'grittily' realistic, it is never exploitative or extremely explicit. Constable Oaklynn Brock's efforts to distance herself from the legacy of having a father known as the Suicide Slayer are powerfully depicted, and her realization that she may be the target of a copycat killer introduces palpable fear and tension at a whole new level!

Turner always weaves a powerful faith message into her plots, and this book is no different! Oaklynn's doubts about a God who would allow such evil to persist are eventually conquered as she witnesses the Christian beliefs of her colleague and protector, Caleb Greene. Their battle against evil is a page-turning, thought-provoking suspense novel that you don't want to miss!

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


My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darlene L. Turner’s love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. 

You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders


Darlene’s social media:


Facebook: https://bit.ly/2Woy8dK

Twitter: https://bit.ly/2Qso27O

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2UhbelT

BookBub: https://bit.ly/2QrdkhP

Pinterest: https://bit.ly/2x2Batz

Instagram: darlenel.turner


View all my reviews

Friday, June 20, 2025

A Steadfast Heart (Wind River Mail-Order Brides) by Lacy Williams & Martha Hutchins

A Steadfast Heart (Wind River Mail-Order Brides)
ABOUT THE BOOK

When his family legacy is on the line, rancher Drew McGraw becomes desperate for someone to tame and tutor his three children. Desperate enough to seek a mail-order bride. But when the wrong woman arrives on his doorstep, Drew balks.

Heiress Kaitlyn Montgomery runs straight from the scandal chasing her toward a fresh start on a secluded ranch. She strikes a bargain with Drew—a marriage convenient for both of them.

But the more Kaitlyn adapts to ranch life and forms a bond with Drew’s children and their enigmatic father, she realizes that this ranch is where she is meant to be. And then her past catches up with her…

This sweet historical romance is perfect for fans of the following

*ready-made family
*nanny/tutor
*single dad
*fish out of water



MY THOUGHTS.....




I've just found two new-to-me authors to follow! Lacy Williams and Martha Hutchins swept me into Kaitlyn Montgomery's frenzied attempts to escape her evil brother, and my enjoyment and anticipation continued to increase! I loved Kaitlyn's bravery, her special bond with the children she was hired to tutor, and the powerful connection that developed between her and rancher Drew McGraw. It didn't take long for me to know they were a perfect match, but when would they discover it for themselves?

This western story takes place in Cheyenne, Wyoming, so you can count on adventure, danger, and the hardships of living on a ranch, but there's so much more! A Steadfast Heart has sweet romance, needy children, two emotionally scarred characters who deserve to find happiness, and a strong emphasis on family and faith! I recommend A Steadfast Heart to all who enjoy romantic Christian fiction, and I look forward to the next book in the Wind River Mail-Order Brides series.

I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy from Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



ABOUT THE AUTHORS

USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams is devoted to bringing her readers heartwarming love stories about cowboys and the women who tame them. She is the author of over seventy books, including the acclaimed Wind River Hearts and Sutter’s Hollow series. Her books have been nominated for the RT Book Reviews’ Seal of Excellence as well as finaled in RT’s Reviewers’ Choice Awards. She has been a puppy parent almost her whole life and often writes with one of her dogs snuggled in her lap. She is a mom of four and spends her non-writing time buried under piles of laundry and dishes.

Learn more at lacywilliams.net.

Follow Lacy on Facebook     Instagram




Martha Hutchens writes Historical Inspirational Romance filled with hope, heart, and a touch of small-town charm. A winner of RWA’s prestigious Golden Heart® Award, she draws on her experiences as a retired homeschool mom, lifelong knitter, and former chemist to craft stories rich in faith, perseverance, and historical detail.

A self-proclaimed history nerd, Martha loves to explore historical sites and imagine the lives of the people who walked there before her. She lives with her husband in the beautiful Ozarks, where she enjoys long walks with her bossy miniature poodle and dreaming up new adventures.

Whether she’s writing about 19th-century frontier life or the challenges of World War II, Martha’s stories are filled with history, heart, and a deep love for storytelling. She’s always happy to connect with readers who share her passion for faith-filled fiction and the resilience of the human spirit.

Learn more by visiting marthahutchens.com

Follow her on    Facebook     Instagram



Wind River Mail-Order Brides
Book 1: A Convenient Heart
Book 2: A Steadfast Heart
Book 3: A Secret Heart
Book 4: A Dangerous Heart
Book 5: A Forgotten Heart







Thursday, June 19, 2025

If Jesus Came to My School by April Graney

If Jesus Came to My School
ABOUT THE BOOK

In this beautifully illustrated picture book, a young girl learns how Jesus’s love can shine at school through her compassion, kindness, and inclusion.

In this whimsical tale, a young girl imagines what it would be like if Jesus visited her school as a boy. She would show Jesus around her classroom, introduce her friends and teachers, listen to story time, and eat lunch together! But Jesus wouldn't stop at learning and sitting in class. He'd invite the lonely to join in on games and find a way to love and get along with everyone. Soon the young girl realizes that even though Jesus doesn’t attend her school, he can live through her.

I can be his hands and feet
To spread his love to all
I can share and help and give
So no one feels too small!

Through rhyming text and vibrant illustrations, children will be inspired to make a difference in their schools through their actions. Because as they treat each other right and classes become families, Jesus truly will be in their school.






MY THOUGHTS.....

This is a wonderful children's book! The beautiful illustrations easily capture a child's attention, the rhyming text is fun to read, and the length is just right for their short attention span. It's a perfect choice for parents, grandparents, Sunday school teachers, or youth leaders---what better way to introduce the joy that comes from knowing God's Son?

If Jesus Came to My School tells the sweet story of a little girl who imagines what it would be like to have Jesus at her school. A young Jesus who visits her classroom, meets all of her classmates, sees what she is learning, and even plays with her during recess! Author April Graney captures the joy of having this special little boy visit, but the real magic comes when the little girl realizes,

"But Jesus made a different plan---he wants to live through ME!"

If Jesus Came to My School is perfect for families to read together, but the simple text also makes it a great choice for beginner readers. I especially recommend reading it at the beginning of a new school year. What better way to encourage children to show love and kindness to their classmates and teachers?

I received a complimentary digital copy. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

April Graney is a teacher at Cookson Hills, a children’s home and school for at-risk students in Oklahoma. She is the author of The Marvelous Maker: A Creation and Redemption Parable and the ECPA Christian Book Award finalist The Marvelous Mud House: A Story of Finding Fullness and Joy. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, April loves studying and teaching the Bible. Her greatest joy has been raising five children with her husband Tom in their crazy, loud, happy house at New Life Ranch, a summer camp and retreat center where they have served for over twenty years.

Learn more about April by visiting her Website 

Follow April on      Facebook     Instagram


View all my reviews


Saturday, June 14, 2025

Of Silver and Secrets (Time's Lost Treasures, #2) by Michelle Griep

Of Silver and Secrets (Time's Lost Treasures, #2)
ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1889 England, Eva Inman finds herself overwhelmed with responsibility. Haunted by guilt over her parents' deaths, Eva struggles to care for her blind sister and manage her family's crumbling estate. With the threat of overdue taxes looming, Eva's situation grows dire until an ancient silver ring is unearthed on her property. Despite local superstitions warning against disturbing the supposedly cursed acres, Eva's need for funds forces her to consider the potential of more buried relics. She turns to Bram Webb, a Cambridge professor of Roman antiquities, for help—only to be reminded of a past she would rather forget.

Bram Webb is under immense pressure to find proof of a legendary Christian Roman settlement in an attempt to conceal his uncle's deteriorating memory from the Trinity College disciplinary board and save both of their jobs. When Eva steps into Bram's office, old sparks fly, rekindling memories that are both fond and painful. The excavation is fraught with challenges from the start, and as Eva and Bram work together with time running out, they must confront their pasts, face the growing attraction between them, and decide whether their love is strong enough to overcome the buried truths that threaten to tear them apart.

Award-winning author Michelle Griep transports you to Victorian-era England with a gripping romance.





MY THOUGHTS.....

I loved this book! I was invited into a Victorian world filled with guilt, secrets, and superstition, and I was captivated until the very satisfying end! Of Silver and Secrets has flawless writing, well-developed characters, and an intriguing plot centered around an archaeological dig in 1889. Eva Inman and Bram Webb are old acquaintances who enter into an uneasy alliance plagued by past hurts, humorous bickering, and a growing attraction between them! Can you understand my fascination with this story?

I've been fortunate to read several of Michelle Griep's books, and I'm always entertained, educated, and inspired! Of Silver and Secrets is a mesmerizing drama filled with mystery, history, second chances, and faith. I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars







ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I hear voices. Loud. Incessant. And very real. Which basically gives me two options: choke back massive amounts of Prozac or write fiction. I chose the latter. Way cheaper. I've been writing since I discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. I seek to glorify God in all that I write...except for that graffiti phase I went through as a teenager. Oops. Did I say that out loud?

learn more about Michelle Griep by visiting  her Website   

Saturday, June 7, 2025

Meet Me on Lilac Lane (Jonathon Island #2) by Andrea Christenson

Meet Me on Lilac Lane (Jonathon Island #2)
ABOUT THE BOOK

The last—very last—person this widow can love is her late husband’s best friend. Period.

Mia Jonathon Franklin’s heart broke forever when her husband and high school sweetheart died in a fishing boat accident two years ago. Now, the life insurance money is gone, the mortgage is overdue, and she’s about to be on the Jonathon Island streets with her two young children.

And then she’s offered a chance to buy her own house cute for a dollar. But only if she can find business owners to move to Jonathon Island—and it comes with a ridiculous quota to complete the deal. She’s in over her head...or is she?

He can’t—just can’t—give into the longings of his heart….

Cody Hart refuses to let his love for Mia get in the way of being her best friend. After all, it was his fault, on his boat, that her husband—his best friend—died. And if he has to put his hopes of reopening the family fishing business on hold to help her, he will. After all, Mia needs him.

But the last thing he’s going to do is tell her how he feels—and has felt since long before she married his best friend. So, they ‘ll work together to find businesses, help revitalize the town, save her house and then he’ll get out of the way.

Except…well, there’s that undeniable connection, and so many long-buried feelings and suddenly his heart is in too deep. But if it all falls apart, they’ll lose their friendship, as well as her family’s future. And Mia—well, happy endings don’t show up twice, right? Especially not with a man who might cost her everything…again.

If you like sweet and clean, small town, unrequited love, best-friends to more stories about single parents, and finding a second happy ending, you’ll love this second book in the Jonathon Island series!

The Jonathon Island series is created by USA Today bestselling, award-winning author Susan May Warren.




MY THOUGHTS.....

This second book in the Jonathon Island series is just as special as the first! I loved the setting, the characters, and the underlying theme of overcoming loss and learning to trust God. I admired the young, widowed mother who'd struggled to stay afloat after losing her husband two years ago, but my favorite character was certainly Cody Hart. He'd loved Mia since childhood but stepped aside when his best friend stole her heart. Troy, Mia, and Cody had once been 'the three musketeers' until their marriage and a tragedy changed this forever.

Author Andrea Christenson shares a poignant picture of a complicated history marked by a longtime friendship and Cody's unrequited love for Mia. His desire to help her and her adorable children seems futile until...unexplained feelings assault Mia when Cody is nearby!

If you enjoy sweet romance, second chances, and a strong message of faith, grab a copy of Meet Me on Lilac Lane. You'll love Jonathon Island as much as I do!

I received a digital copy from Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Andrea Christenson is a contemporary Christian romance author. She’s a pastor’s wife with a biblical studies degree and over 20 years of ministry experience. Her stories are clean, faith-filled, and family-honoring, and can be trusted to entertain the heart, engage the mind, and edify the soul. Andrea lives in Plymouth, MN, with her husband and two daughters.

Learn more by visiting her Website

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JONATHON ISLAND SERIES
Meet Me on Lilac Lane



View all my reviews