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!

Sunday, February 9, 2025

Tides of Healing (Spies of the Civil War, #6) by Sandra Merville Hart

Tides of Healing (Spies of the Civil War #6)
ABOUT THE BOOK

A Southern belle fights to reclaim her home, but will her spying destroy the Union officer she never meant to love?

Savannah Adair has endured the unimaginable, hiding in a cave while her beloved Vicksburg was under siege. With the city now occupied by Union soldiers, Savannah cannot stand by and do nothing. So when one of the gaunt, half-starved Confederate prisoners asks her to spy for the South, she can’t refuse the chance to take back her home.


MY THOUGHTS.....

Have you ever been adamant in a belief or cause and then realized that you have been wrong? Savannah Adair is the perfect example of the change that can come from enlightenment and faith! Slavery was the norm for this Southern belle until a crucial Civil War battle presented a different perspective. Vicksburg, Mississippi was critical to both the Union and Confederacy, and author Sandra Merville Hart shares a poignant look at the aftermath of this battle. Lives were lost, families were changed, and the residents of Vicksburg were subjected to Union occupation. Savannah's spy activities started as a way to help her beloved Southern cause until she gained a new understanding. What would her next actions be?

Hart's dedication to research is especially evident in this riveting conclusion of the Spies of the Civil War series. Tides of Healing is an engaging story of family drama, blossoming romance, and awakening faith. I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction!

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

Award-Winning and Amazon Bestselling Author Sandra Merville Hart is thrilled that her next Civil War series “Spies of the Civil War” will release in 2022! Book 1 of the series, Avenue of Betrayal, is set in Washington DC in 1861. Boulevard of Confusion and Byway to Danger (Books 2 & 3) are set in Richmond, Virginia, in 1862. Actual historical spies will influence the lives of fictional characters in a series where everyone has secrets.

Sandra is on the Planning Committee for Faith & Fellowship Book Festival. She served in the past as Executive Editor for DevoKids.com where she also contributed many historical articles. She teaches writer workshops. She's a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and other writer groups.

Sandra Merville Hart loves to uncover little-known yet fascinating facts about our American history to include in her stories and drags her husband along on her adventures. Thankfully, he also enjoys these fact-finding missions.

Connect with Sandra on her blog, Historical Nibbles, where readers find posts relating to historical food/recipes, book reviews, and American history.

Follow Sandra on    Facebook      Twitter     


Please check out my reviews of the other books in this series!

SPIES OF THE CIVIL WAR

Tides of Healing

Saturday, February 8, 2025

Where I Found You (Magnolia Bay, #1) by Betsy St. Amant

Where I Found You (Magnolia Bay #1)
ABOUT THE BOOK

From beloved author Betsy St. Amant comes an enemies to more, Hatfields and McCoys swoon-worthy contemporary romance set in a small beach town that reminds us that true love is worth fighting for.

Noah Hebert recently inherited the Blue Pirogue Inn—along with all its problems. He needs money to keep his beloved childhood home from being shut down by his family’s longtime nemesis, Isaac Bergeron. So when Noah’s lawyer approaches him about an additional segment of his late grandfather’s will, it’s just in the nick of time. But even from beyond the grave, his grandfather is up to his usual games. In order to receive the last portion of inheritance, Noah must follow the clues. But there’s one condition…

Magnolia Blossom Cafe manager Elisa Bergeron is shocked to discover an acquaintance from the local Puzzlers Club left her something in his will—and even more surprised to discover they are clues to a portion of his estate. When she learns she must work with introverted inn-owner Noah Hebert to solve the puzzle, she’s torn. Growing up in the middle of a multi-generational feud between their families, she’s been taught by her father Isaac that Heberts can’t be trusted.

When these two exes must work together to save their future, will love get a second chance or will the longstanding family feud claim another generation?


MY THOUGHTS.....

This is such a special story! There's a high-school romance that ended badly and a second chance orchestrated by a loving grandfather. Noah Hebert and his former girlfriend, Elisa Bergeron, are both named in his late grandfather's but one of the stipulations is that they must work together to solve a puzzle. Both need the money badly, but can they overcome the hurts from their past? Will the age-old feud between their families be too much to overcome?

I was very impressed with this new-to-me author, Betsy St. Amant. I loved the multi-faceted characters, the raw emotions, and the embers of a young love that had never been extinguished. Elisa and Noah's adult relationship appeared doomed, but was there a flame waiting to be ignited?

If you enjoy treasure hunts, small-town settings, and second chances laced with faith and forgiveness, you will want to read Where I Found You. It's a great beginning to the new Magnolia Bay series!

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


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Betsy St. Amant Haddox is the author of over twenty romance novels and novellas. She resides in north Louisiana with her hubby, two daughters, an impressive stash of coffee mugs, and one furry Schnauzer-toddler. Betsy has a B.A. in Communications and a deep-rooted passion for seeing women restored to truth. When she’s not composing her next book or trying to prove unicorns are real, Betsy can be found somewhere in the vicinity of an iced coffee. She writes frequently for www.ibelieve.com, a devotional site for women.

Connect with Betsy by visiting her Website
You can also follow her on   Facebook     X     Instagram

View all my reviews

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

The Nature of Love (Love in the Spotlight, #3) by Toni Shiloh

The Nature of Love (Love in the Spotlight, #3)
ABOUT THE BOOK

A doctor feeling fractured

Dr. Erykah Kennedy, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, finds herself at a crossroads in life. At forty-one, she's achieved remarkable success in her career, yet when it comes to her love life, she feels hopeless. But when she meets Christian Gamble, a passionate wildlife conservationist, an unexpected bond forms between them despite their contrasting worlds.

A wildlife enthusiast ready for more

Chris has yet to find someone to share his adventures with, but as his friendship with Erykah starts to blossom, he begins falling for her in every way. When tragedy strikes and Erykah suddenly becomes guardian to her nieces, Chris helps her pick up the pieces.

Two hearts destined by nature

With their lives turned upside down, finding their way to a lasting love while putting their faith in God may be the biggest challenge they've ever faced.

The Nature of Love is a clean, African American contemporary romance with themes of friends to lovers and the healing power of love. This heartfelt happily-ever-after tale is the series finale of Shiloh's beloved Love in the Spotlight novels.



MY THOUGHTS.....

Author Toni Shiloh has saved the best for last! I've enjoyed the first two romances in the Love in the Spotlight series, but this final book is now my favorite. Erykah Kennedy and Christian Gamble are both older (early 40s), with satisfying careers but their personal lives are lacking, to say the least. Watching them become friends and seeing Erykah's gradual reliance on Christian is heartwarming but this book offers so much more! Erykah's gut-wrenching grief over the deaths of her sister and brother-in-law is powerfully depicted, along with Christian's unflinching support through Erykah's grieving process and her new role as "Mommy" to her two young nieces. How can a woman who's always been alone know how to help two children adapt to life without their parents? When will Christian realize he wants to be more than a friend to this newly formed family?

I'm always impressed by Shiloh's ability to write stories that resonate with so many, and I always treasure the powerful faith messages she shares. Her characters may be fallible, but they always experience a growing awareness of their need for God and the assurance of His ever-present love. At first, Erykah's faith journey is tentative, but oh, the joy when she finally understands the goodness of God. If you enjoy contemporary fiction with adorable children, supportive friends, witty dialogue, and romance that makes you swoon, grab a copy of The Nature of Love. There's also an epilogue that will leave you cheering! Toni Shiloh has truly outdone herself.

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There were no expectations of a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and multi-published Christian contemporary romance author. She writes to bring God glory and to learn more about His goodness. Her novels, Grace Restored, was a 2019 Holt Medallion finalist, Risking Love a 2020 Selah Award finalist, and The Truth About Fame a 2021 Holt Medallion finalist.

A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and of the Virginia Chapter, Toni seeks to encourage authors in the writing industry. She loves connecting with readers and authors alike via social media. You can learn more about her writing at http://tonishiloh.com.


Follow Toni Shiloh on Social Media



LOVE IN THE SPOTLIGHT
The Nature of Love

Monday, February 3, 2025

Whispers of Fortune (Golden State Treasure, #1) by Mary Connealy

Whispers of Fortune (Golden State Treasure, #1)
ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1875 California, Brody MacKenzie arrives at Two Hearts Ranch on a mission to find his runaway brothers, worried they may have fallen into harm. Instead, he finds them thriving at the ranch's school and orphanage under the care of Ellie Hart, a woman with a heart as resilient as the land she calls home. His own options limited, Brody reluctantly takes on the role of the ranch's doctor, and he forms an unexpected bond with Ellie, who's kept a steady eye on Brody's two rapscallion brothers. When the boys show him a mysterious journal that has been guiding their travels and may hold the key to a lost treasure, Brody and Ellie are captivated by the possibility of a thrilling adventure.

With winter approaching and his brothers threatening to bolt again, Brody and Ellie race against time to decipher cryptic clues and unearth the hidden fortune. But along the way, old adversaries resurface, threatening their newfound affection and the safety of the ranch.

In her exhilarating series starter, Mary Connealy weaves an exciting adventure of courage, danger, and love in the Wild West.


MY THOUGHTS.....

What's better than a story filled with cowboys, adventure, and a little mystery? How about a swoon-worthy romance laced with wit and humor? That's what I've learned to expect from a Mary Connealy story and this book is no exception! Whispers of Fortune takes place in California, near the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the 1870s. Two young runaway boys arrive there to search for a buried treasure that they've heard about all of their lives. Their grandfather's old journal holds the clues to finding the treasure but breaking the code seems impossible for Lochlan and Thayne McKenzie. Will their older brother Brody force them to go back to Boston, or will his heart be captured by the beauty of California and the woman who lives at Two Harts Ranch? Buried treasure is the prize for Lock and Thayne but Ellie Hart may be the true treasure for Dr. Brody McKenzie!

Whispers of Fortune is the first book in Connealy's new series, Golden State Treasure. Obscure clues and determined villains may hinder the search but faith, family, and forgiveness help lighten the way. I loved that the sisters from The Lumber Baron's Daughters series are apart of the story, and I look forward to learning more about Ellie's brother, Josh Hart! I recommend this book to all who enjoy historical Western romance!

I received a 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

Whispers of Fortune
Legends of Gold


Sunday, February 2, 2025

The Hunted Heir by Jayna Breigh

The Hunted Heir
ABOUT THE BOOK

After a tragic loss, private investigator Nona Taylor swore off romantic entanglements and distanced herself from the world. Once a year, on New Year's Eve, she attends church to beg God for forgiveness, haunted by the guilt of driving her twin sister to her death.

Attorney DeMarcus Johnson is determined to climb the ladder to partnership by winning high-profile cases at his Los Angeles law firm, harnessing his ADHD hyperfocus to excel. He's everything Nona knows to steer clear of--an overconfident ex-jock willing to do anything for success.

Their worlds collide when Nona's pastor receives a mysterious letter claiming he's the sole heir to a substantial estate. Desperate for answers, Nona infiltrates a lavish charity ball, only to be found out by a suspicious stranger--so she latches onto DeMarcus and concocts a fib about being his fiancée.

Now bound by a false engagement, the pair reluctantly join forces to discover the truth about the inheritance. But when an unseen enemy strikes, they realize the stakes are higher than they thought. Can Nona and DeMarcus overcome their differences to keep the pastor safe, secure DeMarcus's partnership, and preserve a future for themselves?



MY THOUGHTS.....



The Hunted Heir is a cornucopia of everything I love in a book! The characters are fantastic and mystery, history, and family secrets add to the drama and intrigue. Author Jayna Breigh perfectly captures Nona's overpowering guilt over her sister's death, DeMarcus's drive to succeed, and two of the best-supporting characters ever! All of us, at one time or another, have needed the faith and understanding of Pastor Grant and the unfailing love and wisdom of a wonderful G'Ma!

I was captivated from the heartrending first words until the heartwarming conclusion of this debut novel! Breigh kept me turning the pages to learn the secrets and solve the mystery, but it was impossible to ignore the romance! Could a pretend engagement become something more? I highly recommend The Hunted Heir to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

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

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.  

Sign up for The Jayna Breigh Communique newsletter and receive several free surprises perfect for readers and writers.

Want to learn more? Visit her Website     Facebook     X     Instagram     Pinterest

View all my reviews

Friday, January 31, 2025

Author Spotlight: Martha Bolton

I've found an author who is new to me, but she certainly isn't new to others. I'm amazed by Martha Bolton's many accomplishments!



Martha's current title is The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits, a fun cozy mystery that she's written with Wanda E. Brunstetter/

.

Fun Fact about this book: It will be adapted into a musical set to premier in April 2025 in Lancaster, PA!

It will also open in Shipshewana, IN on July 1st at The Blue Gate Theater!



Question #1: Can you give a brief summary of your writing career? What are some of your favorite aspects of writing?

My favorite aspect of writing is in the process. Even though it is a lot of work, I have never tired of it. I love getting new ideas and then knowing when it's time for that idea to start flourishing. You just know the moment when it's all going to come together. After that, it's about polishing, adding humor and heartfelt moments, and whatever else comes across your mind. You cut what's not working, add more of what is, and keep on going until you reach the end.

As far as a summary of my career: I was a church secretary who had a pastor who suggested I write a play. One sentence and I thought, "Yeah, why not? I'll give it a try." I also grew up absolutely loving humor and playing around with words. I studied comedians and got the opportunity to write for Phyllis Diller and other comedians. Ultimately, I went on staff with Bob Hope, becoming his first woman staff writer, and wrote his television specials, military shows, and personal appearances. I was with him for fifteen years, cowriting the book, Dear Bob... Bob Hope's Wartime Correspondence with the GIs of WW2, with his daughter and producer, Linda Hope.

Bob Hope's Christmas specials were "must-watch TV" when I was growing up!

Question #2: You mentioned working with Bob Hope but also said meeting Ronald Reagan was a memorable experience for you. Can you describe that event?


My husband and I attended Bob Hope's 90th birthday party, and he (Ronald Reagan) was also invited. When I saw that Ronald Reagan was walking just a bit ahead of us, I got the courage to ask if he'd take a photo with me. We posed for the photo, my husband snapped the photo, but the flash didn't
go off. Disappointed, I thanked him and was ready to move along. But he said, "Would you like to try it again?" Well, of course I did. So, we posed again, my husband snapped the photo again, but the flash didn't go off again. The following day, I took the film in to be developed, hoping and praying thatsomething came out. But it was just a black negative. But, I went ahead and got it developed and enlarged, and I framed it and hung it on my wall because I KNOW it's me and Ronald Reagan! I was telling that story in a speech, and afterwards a man came up to me and asked, "So did you ever get that picture?" I said, "No, I had my two chances and I blew it." Then, he handed me his card. It was Michael Reagan, the president's son. The following week, I got a call from the president's office inviting me and my entire family to his office to have our photos taken with him. He was such a gracious man! I cherish that fun memory!

Yay for Martha! I love second chances in fiction but they're even better in real life!

Question #3: How did you end up working on scripts for plays?

I actually wrote my first play adaptation in elementary school as an assignment and loved the process. Then, I wrote church plays which we produced every Christmas and Easter, large pageants, as well as dramatic plays centered around various themes. Humor was always a major part of the presentations. I continued playwriting even while working on staff as Bob Hope's first woman staff writer. So, the stage has always been part of my life. I love seeing stories come to life through the talents of the actors, directors, set designers, sound directors, and everyone else involved in the process!

Question #4: What led you to working with Wanda Brunstetter?

I had worked with Wanda before with the adaptation of her Daughters of Lancaster County series. This became the musical, Stolen, where I first introduced detective Foster Bates. Fannie, who had the added element of being avid Amish mystery reader and perceived herself as an amateur sleuth played beautifully with Foster's reluctancy to get involved in much of anything since retiring from the Chicago Police Department. Bringing these two back for another mystery seemed like a fun thing for us to do!

Question #5: Can you describe the process of working with Wanda on The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits, and how that ended up becoming a musical?

Because Fannie (Wanda's creation) and Foster (a character I created) were such fun to work with in the musical Stolen, I wanted to write another mystery involving these two offbeat mystery sleuths. I approached Wanda and asked if she would be interested in writing a novel together that would accompany the musical. She was on deadline for another book (I believe more than one), but she said it sounded like fun, and she would make room. She obtained permission from her publisher, and we started writing. And Wanda's instincts were right, it was a lot of fun! We so appreciate all the kind comments from readers and are happy that they are enjoying these two quirky characters (and the rest of the contestants and supporting characters as much as we did!) The musical will be opening in both Indiana and Pennsylvania. If you plan on being in the area, I highly recommend seeing it. It's going to be a lot of fun, with fantastic actors, original songs, and plenty of twists and turns! Another element that I should throw in is that during our writing process, Wanda broke her humerus bone and shoulder. So she indeed suffered for her art. One interesting thing about that is that I had broken my humerus bone several years ago, and our editor had also broken hers! So, here we were three people writing humor, and we all had broken humerus bones!

Hmm! Does this mean that breaking your humerus bone can make you funnier? I wouldn't recommend it but The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits did make me laugh out loud!



Question #6: Did you adapt the Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits novel into the script for the musical? How were the musical elements added to the script?

Yes. It's always a challenge working the story elements into a stage production because you only have so much time and less players to work with. Also, their entrances and exits have to support their stage time availability, keep the story and pacing flowing, and everything needs to build to a good climax and satisfying ending. That's a challenge with any production. I also wrote many of the song lyrics that you will hear in the musical and enjoyed that aspect of the writing process. One the musical was written, then I worked closely with director Monica DePaul and Dramaturg Bobby Hall. for fine-tuning the above elements. A few things will be different than what is in the book, for staging purposes, but I'm very excited to see the finished production.

This is such a fun book! Check out my review of The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits.

Question #7: Will you be at any of the premier showings of The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits musical?

The play runs at the Bird in Hand Theater (Lancaster, PA) from April 3-August 2, 2025, and at The Blue Gate Theater (Shipshewana, IN) from July 1 - October 25, 2025. Wanda and I both will be autographing at the musical opening April 3 (7pm) and April 4 (1pm), and at the Shady Maple in East Earl, PA on April 5th from 12-2pm. We will also be at the opening of the play in Shipshewana, IN on July 1, 2025 autographing books.

Question #8: What do you hope readers gain from The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits?

First and foremost, I hope they enjoy reading the book. Sometimes, in life, we all just need to sit down and enjoy some laughter and a good escape. We hope this book does that for people. But there are also lessons to be learned by the characters, and we hope that, along with the scriptures they represent, will be a help and comfort to people too. And I certainly hope there are more Fannie and Foster mysteries to come. I'm game if Wanda is! We'll all try not to break any bones next time, though.

Question #9: What is your favorite Bible verse and why?

It's hard to narrow them down to one, so if you'll forgive me, I will mention two of my favorites. Proverbs 15:15b KJV which says, "...he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast." And Jeremiah 29:11 KJV: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."

Question #10: Where can readers find you online? My website: marthabolton.com and on Facebook: 

Thursday, January 30, 2025

The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits by Wanda E. Brunstetter & Martha Bolton

The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits: A Cozy Amish Mystery
ABOUT THE BOOK

Why Are Baking Contestants Disappearing?

Mysteries have a way of following Fannie Miller, so when she makes it into the finals of the Tuscarawas County Baking Contest and contestants start disappearing, she calls on her old friend Foster Bates, a retired cop and part-time private investigator. Could it be that other finalists are somehow responsible for these disappearances, thinning out the competition? Like the couple on verge of divorce who need the prize money, or the three Beiler sisters, always in a huddle whispering. One thing is for certain—Foster and Fannie will stay on the case until the end, and everyone involved will have learned something important about baking contests, solving mysteries, and life.

New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter and Emmy-Nominated Author Martha Bolton have teamed up to deliver a delightful whodunit from Ohio’s Amish country.






MY THOUGHTS.....

Strange happenings in Sugarcreek, Ohio require some expert detective work, and who better to investigate than retired Chicago police officer Foster Bates? How about an amateur Amish detective named Fannie Miller? The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits is a fun new cozy mystery from co-authors Wanda E. Brunstetter and Martha Bolton. I laughed as I helped search for clues and couldn't wait to see who was targeting the baking contestants vying for a $25, 000 grand prize! I was also intrigued by Foster and Fannie's relationship. Did they respect each other for their expert detective skills or was a romance brewing between this Amish baker and "English" investigator?

Quirky characters, a small community setting, and a sweet romance---this book is perfect for all who enjoy humor, whodunits, and life among the Amish. There's also a bonus: the recipe for Miss Fannie's Buttermilk Biscuits. I enjoyed The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits and recommend it to all who enjoy cozy mysteries. Hopefully, there will be more adventures with Fannie and Foster!

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHORS


New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 11 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  




Martha Bolton is a prolific author of 89 books, an Emmy nominee, a Dove Award nominee, and a co-author of three NY Times bestselling books. She was nominated for a Writers' Guild Award for her work on the Emmy-winning Bob Hope—The First Ninety Years

She was Bob's first full-time female staff writer, working for the legendary comedian in the 1980s and 1990s. She has received nominations for an Emmy, a Dove, and a WGA Award. The author of 88 books, including her newest, Dear Bob... Bob Hope's Wartime Correspondence with the GIs of WW2, which was awarded the Christian Market Book of the Year and the AWSA Memoir of the Year at the Golden Scrolls 2021. She was also named AWSA Member of the Year for 2021. Martha is also a prolific playwright with shows playing in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Pennsylvania. Two of the musicals are based on her novels, Josiah for President and The Home Game. Martha has also written for Phyllis Diller and numerous other comedians

Learn more by visiting her Website
Follow her on Facebook          

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Author Spotlight: Wanda E. Brunstetter

Wanda E. Brunstetter is the author of over 100 books with more than 12 million copies sold.  I've had the privilege to share many of these books here on this blog but today, I'm thrilled to share this Author Spotlight!

            


Wanda E. Brunstetter's newest released book is The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits (co-authored with Martha Bolton). 

Fun Fact about this book: It will be adapted into a musical set to premier in April 2025 in Lancaster, PA!

It will also open in Shipshewana, IN on July 1st at The Blue Gate Theater!



Question #1:  We have several new Club members joining your Clippity Clop Club this year. Would you be able to give a brief summary of your writing career and its highlights for you?

I began writing when I was a child. I loved to read ad began writing poems and short stories. As an adult, after taking my first writing course, I began writing fiction stories and non-fiction articles for publication. Following another writing course, I submitted my first novel to Barbour Publishing for their Heartsong Presents Book Club. After publishing several more Heartsongs, Barbour opened up their trade fiction line. I submitted a 3-book series entitled, Daughters of Lancaster County that was about the kidnapping of an Amish baby.  It sold well and made the New York Times Best-seller’s List soon after it came out. The rest is pretty much history, and I’ve been writing for Barbour Publishing exclusively for nearly 30 years. One of the highlights in my writing career has been seeing two of my books turned into musical plays, with a third play opening soon, based on my co-authored novel, The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie’s Biscuits. The new musical will open this spring in Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, and again in July at the Blue Gate Theatre in Shipshewana, Indiana.

Almost 30 years with Barbour Publishing!  What an accomplishment!!

Question #2: Who have been some memorable people you have met over your writing career

It’s been a thrill for me to meet many authors, but three in particular made an impact on me by their humble attitudes and obvious love for people. Among them are Janette Oke, Karen Kingsbury, and Nicholas Sparks. Although Nicholas does not write inspirational fiction, the fact that he was willing to spend thirty minutes visiting with me and answering several of my questions meant a lot and spoke volumes. One thing I came away with after meeting him was the fact that he genuinely cares about his family as well as those who read his books, and even people like me whom he’d never met until our paths crossed during an author signing event where he was the keynote speaker.
 
 


Wanda with  Nicholas Sparks
                                                                       
Janette Oke and Karen Kingsbury also took the time to visit with me, and after just a few minutes of talking to them, I knew we were kindred spirits, who not only have a passion for writing, but care deeply about the people who read our novels. 

Question #3: When Martha Bolton approached you about writing The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie’s Biscuits, you were on an extremely busy writing schedule. What made this project so special that you wanted to fit it in? 

First of all, I was excited to hear that Martha wanted Fannie Miller to be one of the leading characters. Since I had created Fannie in my novel, The Quilter’s Daughter, and she’d been included in the musical called “Stolen,” I thought it would be fun to reprise her character in a new storyline. I was also pleased to learn that The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie’s Biscuits would become a musical play.


Question #4: Besides the Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits, you had other books adapted to musicals (Stolen and Half-Stitched). Can you describe what that process has been like for you?


Although I was not involved in the actual process of creating the musical plays, I was in
correspondence with those who were involved in creating the musical, either before, during, or after the play was written. I also had the privilege of attending the opening of Half-Stitched and Stolen and got to meet many of my readers while signing the book I’d written. 

Wanda with the cast of Half-Stitched the Musical

Question #5: What do you hope readers gain from The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits?

In addition to the enjoyment of a cute, cozy mystery, I hope readers will find encouragement from the verses of Scripture that are scattered throughout the book and were also an inspiration to the characters who had been dealing with various problems. There are lots of scenarios in the book similar to things we all face in our daily lives.

This is such a fun book but I'm reminded that we can remain useful in all stages of our lives!  Check out my review of The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits.

Question #6: You broke your arm while on a book tour last summer. Can you give an update for your readers? 

On July 31st during a family reunion in Pennsylvania, I fell and broke my left arm. This was just a few days before my signing tour was supposed to begin. Although I was not able to attend any of those signings, my daughter, Lorine, and daughter-in-law, Jean, who were also on the trip, went to each of the signings in my place. Since our Sisters by the Sea novella collection was available at the events, in which Jean and Lorine had both written a story, they had the opportunity to meet several of my readers and sign copies of that book. For the rest of my books that were available at the signings, they had autographed sticker labels previously signed by me to peel and stick inside each book that was purchased or brought in by readers. Although I felt bad about not being able to be at any of those signings, it was a comfort to know that Lorine and Jean were there to greet my readers, as well as the ones who had read their stories. We remained in Pennsylvania almost two weeks, while I was treated for my injury at an acute rehab center in preparation of the flight home to Washington State. For the kind of break I had, I was given a brace to wear, rather than a cast. It was uncomfortable due to the break and all the swelling that went with it, and I didn’t do well on most of the pills they gave me for pain. When I returned home and saw an orthopedic doctor in the area, I was told that I would need to wear the brace a minimum of 8 weeks. It turned out to be 10 weeks before he would allow me to take it off. Even then, he cautioned me to be careful and said it would be best if I wore the brace whenever I was away from home. Later, after another x-ray of the arm, I was informed that the broken bone had stopped healing and would need some help. So, I began using a bone stimulator for 30 minutes per day and was told that I would probably need to do this for the next 4-6 months. A few weeks after using the stimulator, I had another x-ray and learned that the bone was starting to heal again. I could finally go to out-patient therapy, where the therapist would be allowed to work on the upper portion of my arm. By this time, 5 months after the fall, I had lost a good deal of the range of motion in my left arm. I am able to type, (praise the Lord!), cook, and do some simple chores, but am not supposed to pick up anything heavy. Today I went to therapy for the 2nd time, and will be seen twice weekly for the next 3 months, or possibly more. My goal, and my prayer, is to regain full use of my left arm and get complete range of motion back.  

Question #7: What Bible verse have you been especially drawn to lately?

Proverbs 17:22  (NKJV) is one of my favorite verses: “A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones.”  Over the last two years, beginning with my daughter’s stroke, our family has been faced with one challenge after another. So, looking for things to be joyous about has been an important help in dealing with the issues we’ve faced, and quoting that verse of Scripture regularly has been extremely helpful to me.

Question #8: Besides your website at www.wandabrunstetter.com, where can readers find you online?  

You can also find me on Facebook, where I have a fan page and a friend page; Instagram, Pinterest; YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter).


Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin

Midnight on the Scottish Shore
ABOUT THE BOOK

The only way Cilla van der Zee can survive the German occupation of the Netherlands is to do the unthinkable--become a spy for the Nazis in Britain. She soothes her conscience with a plan to abandon her mission and instead aid the Allies. Her scheme is thwarted when naval officer Lt. Lachlan Mackenzie finds her along the Scottish shore and turns her in to be executed.

But perhaps she is more useful alive than dead. British intelligence sends her to Scotland to radio misleading messages to Germany, messages about the naval base at Scapa Flow to be crafted by Lachlan. At the station in the lighthouse at Dunnet Head, Lachlan and Cilla must work together if the war is to be won. But how can he trust a woman who arrived on his shores as a tool of the enemy--a woman certain to betray both him and the Allied cause?

Master of World War II fiction Sarah Sundin takes you to the wild Scottish seaside, where danger lurks under the surface of the water--and in the depths of the human heart--for a WWII tale you won't soon forget.


MY THOUGHTS.....

'Cilla had found her freedom...To escape the Nazis, she would become a Nazi spy.'

Author Sarah Sundin shares the compelling story of a young Dutch woman drawn into a world of danger, deception, and espionage during World War II. This war vividly comes alive as we follow Cilla van der Zee's effort to reach Great Britain, her capture in Scotland by a naval officer, and her important work as a radio messenger. Midnight on the Scottish Shore is a captivating blend of historical details, emotional dilemmas, and struggles between right and wrong. It made me wonder what choices I would have made. What would I have considered doing in the fight for freedom? Would I have remained true to my moral compass?

I'm a fan of Sundin's World War II novels so I wasn't surprised with her impeccable research but this isn't just a war novel. Dynamic characters, a slow-burning romance, and an inspiring faith message made this a mesmerizing story to savor! I recommend Midnight on the Scottish Shore for all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Sundin enjoys writing about the drama and romance of the World War II era. She is the bestselling author of The Sound of Light ((2023), Until Leaves Fall in Paris (2022), When Twilight Breaks (2021), The Land Beneath Us (February 2020), The Sky Above Us (2019) and The Sea Before Us (2018), as well as the Waves of Freedom, Wings of the Nightingale series, and Wings of Glory series. Her novel The Sea Before Us received the 2019 Reader's Choice Award from Faith, Hope, and Love, Through Waters Deep and When Tides Turn were named to Booklist's "101 Best Romance Novels of the Last 10 Years," and Through Waters Deep won the 2016 INSPY Award and was a Carol Award finalist.

A mother of three, Sundin lives in northern California and teaches Sunday school and women's Bible studies. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as the Program Director for West Coast Christian Writers Conference.

Learn more about Sarah and her books here. 

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MY PREVIOUS REVIEWS OF SARAH SUNDIN'S BOOKS

Midnight on the Scottish Shore