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!

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Inspire Bible for Kids NLT: The Bible for Coloring & Creative Journaling

Inspire Bible for Kids NLT (Softcover): The Bible for Coloring & Creative Journaling
ABOUT THE BIBLE
#inspirebible #tyndalebibles #sponsored #ad

Inspire your kids’ creativity, Bible reading, and love for God

Are you eager for your kids to read and enjoy the Bible? 
Inspire Bible for Kids is packed with fun activities designed to help your children engage with God’s Word either independently or with parents. Featuring ready-to-color artwork, this Bible will spark creativity as your children color Words of Scripture alongside Bible themed illustrations. Along the way there are memory verses, kid-friendly devotions, fun facts and fascinating trivia, making reading the Bible fun and exciting.

Features of this creative NLT Bible for kids include:

  • The full Bible text of the accurate and understandable New Living Translation
  • Two-color, wide-margined interior with plenty of space for creativity
  • 400+ Inspire line-art illustrations to help kids engage with Scripture
  • 300+ devotional readings and trivia questions to help kids to learn God’s Word
  • 140+ journaling prompts to promote the application of biblical truths
  • Fun facts to know about each book of the Bible
  • 75+ memory verse prompts to help kids hide God’s word in their hearts

Designed to appeal to both boys and girls, this coloring Bible encourages your kids to learn more about God, his plan for their lives, and his great love for them.

The New Living Translation is an accurate, understandable, and audibly enjoyable English translation of the Bible. It conveys the precise meaning of the original languages in a flowing, effortless writing style that promotes comfortable and meaningful reading.


Purchase Link 


MY THOUGHTS.....

Are you a parent or grandparent who wants to encourage your young person to read the Bible more? Do you pray that they will grow in their love for God? This new Bible from Tyndale Bibles is a wonderful solution! Inspire for Kids NLT will invite children to read God's Word! And even though it's meant for ages 7-12, it's enjoyable for adults, including grandmothers like me!








Children in my Sunday school classes always love the story of the young boy with his 5 loaves and 2 fish. This illustration adds another dimension!







What are some of the special features I love? The text is easy to understand, wide margins allow space for jotting down notes, and it is crammed with intriguing facts, fun activities, and over 300 devotions. Line drawings of flowers, animals, and of course, Bible scripture are included for all who love to color, and the smaller size is just right for smaller hands. Kids will enjoy this Bible so much, they won't even realize how much they're learning!







This bible targets ages 7-12 but Jeremiah 29:11 is one of MY favorite verses. This is a line drawing I will enjoy coloring!









Inspire for Kids NLT is a beautiful Bible for both younger readers and tweens. It's perfect for gifts and a great addition to Sunday schools, youth groups, and church libraries!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via FrontGate Media. There was no obligation for a favorable review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

#inspirebible #tyndalebibles #sponsored #ad





And then, there's the beautiful reminder of Jesus's birth


GIVEAWAY
 

I'm pleased to share that BlessedFreebies is giving away a copy of the Inspire Bible for Kids NLT: The Bible for Coloring & Creative Journaling!

To enter your name, please click on the word ENTER. This giveaway closes 3/8/26.



 #inspirebible #tyndalebibles #sponsored #ad

Friday, February 27, 2026

Levi Johnson and the Hollow Tree Trials: The Mighty Oak by Swinton Taylor

Levi Johnson and the Hollow Tree Trials: The Mighty Oak
ABOUT THE BOOK

Levi Johnson loved to play in the woods and knew them like the back of his hand. But one day, he stumbled upon a mysterious door hidden in the face of a large tree. Little did he know that this discovery would lead him into untold adventures, unexpected journeys, and faith-filled lessons that would change his life forever.







MY THOUGHTS.....

Adventure, fantasy, and lessons in faith. This book is great for young readers who love adventure and fantasy, but it is also an enjoyable teaching tool! 

Levi Johnson meets Mr. William Hogg, a talking owl, in Chapter 1, and in Chapter 2, Levi is introduced to the Mighty Oak, after going through a mysterious door in a very large tree trunk near his home. Three talking trees remind Levi that being big or mighty doesn't always make one the strongest. Deep roots are the secret to strength, and strong roots are dependent on faith and trust in one's Master.

Her imaginative use of a talking owl, talking trees, and an adventurous young boy provides author Swinton Taylor with the perfect opportunity to share an inspiring faith message with children ages 8-14. I, myself, enjoyed Levi Johnson and the Hollow Tree Trials: The Mighty Oak, and look forward to Levi's next adventure!

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

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Tangled Past (Hope Island Securities #7) by Mary Alford

Tangled Past (Hope Island Securities #7)
ABOUT THE BOOK

A murdered police chief. A missing truth. A witness who can’t remember.

Twenty-five years after his father’s unsolved murder, Asa Dutton returns to Hope Island determined to uncover the truth. His only lead is Maya Callahan—the little girl found hiding in the barn the night his father died.

Maya has no memory of that stormy night. But as fragments of her past resurface, so does danger. Someone is watching. Someone who will kill to keep the truth buried.

As Asa and Maya grow closer, the stakes turn deadly. Because remembering the past may be the only way to survive it.








MY THOUGHTS.....

'The storm arrived like something from his nightmares.'

This first line in the prologue is just a teaser for what's ahead in Tangled Past! In the blink of an eye, eight-year-old Asa Dutton's life was forever shattered, and so was the life of a little girl named Maya. Who would guess that twenty-five years later, that long-ago storm would still be ravaging their lives?'

Author Mary Alford launches a take-your-breath-away roller-coaster ride in this seventh book of the Hope Island Securities series. I've enjoyed this team before, and they're now supporting Asa as he works to unravel the mystery surrounding his late father's death and also help a young woman recover the memories she lost on that fateful night. Twists, turns, and a deplorable villain make this story the ultimate example of mystery and suspense but Alford also weaves an inspiring faith message into the exciting cold-case plot. Asa and Maya's partnership evolves into a journey of love, forgiveness, and redemption!

I highly recommend Tangled Past to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Alford is a USA Today bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can't put down. Her titles have been finalists for several awards, including the Daphne Du Maurier, the Beverly, the Maggie, and the Selah. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog. 

Learn more by visiting her Website    Facebook    Twitter     Instagram     Pinterest


HOPE ISLAND SECURITIES 
Forgotten Past
Deadly Past
Sins of the Past
Chasing the Past
Shrouded Past
Tangled Past


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Friday, February 20, 2026

Deadly Currents (Hidden Bay, #3) by Elizabeth Goddard

Deadly Currents (Hidden Bay, #3)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Investigative journalist Cressida arrives in Hidden Bay after a worldwide journey to finish her late father's manuscript on shipwrecks. As she tries to discover the story behind the "ghost ship" Specter's Bounty, her only lead is a name her father left behind--Evelyn Monroe. As Cressida uncovers more about the ship, she quickly realizes that her research has placed her in the crosshairs of dangerous forces.

County detective Braden is in Hidden Bay for one reason--to get his niece lifesaving medical treatment. To do that, he is assigned to protect Cressida from a revenge-driven enemy. Together, Braden and Cressida dig deeper to discern the myth from the facts surrounding the Specter's Bounty. Entangled in secrets, they must unravel the past before it destroys their future.

Brace yourself for Elizabeth Goddard's final adrenaline-inducing installment in the Hidden Bay series.




MY THOUGHTS.....

Finally! After being teased about a ghost ship in the first book of this series, I now have answers. Amid heart-pounding danger and puzzling plot twists, secrets have been revealed. Throw in the rocky coast along Hidden Bay, add pirates, sunken ships, and hidden agendas, and the result was a captivating drama with vibes that often seemed gothic to me!

Author Elizabeth Goddard is a master at creating characters we care about, placing them in impossible situations, and guiding them through journeys of faith. I was especially captivated by the conflicting dynamics between Cressida and Braden. Sweet romance and touching moments blurred by grief, doubts, and mistrust. Would forgiveness and redemption help them overcome?

This has been such a special series. Storm Warning set the stage, Perilous Tides deepened the connection, and Deadly Currents is the icing on the cake! I couldn't have asked for a better conclusion to the Hidden Bay series.

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


Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of 60 novels and novellas, including Cold Light of Day, Shadows at Dusk, and the Rocky Mountain Courage and Uncommon Justice series. Her books have sold nearly 1.5 million copies. She is a Christy Award, Carol Award and Reader’s Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier and HOLT Medallion Award finalist. When she’s not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry.

Learn more by visiting her Website    


HIDDEN BAY
Deadly Currents


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Monday, February 16, 2026

The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep

The Bird of Bedford Manor
ABOUT THE BOOK

Bedfordshire, England, 1820: Ruined by the sins of her father, Juliet Finch is cast into a life of self-reliance. Survival is a harsh taskmaster, but she is a quick learner and excels at tracking and snaring wild game to feed herself. Juliet embraces her new identity until the day Henry Russell catches her poaching on his land--a crime punishable by death. Henry, however, has other offenses on his mind: namely, the troublesome stalker who's making a misery of his sister's life. To try to put a stop to her torment, Henry charges Juliet with tracking the elusive villain so he can be brought to justice. Using her skills, Juliet hunts down the rogue. . .but may just become the prey herself.
Reader favorite Michelle Griep has penned yet another masterpiece with this page-turning adventure that has it all:

  • swoon-worthy romance
  • clever turn-of-phrase
  • colorfully memorable characters
  • charming British setting






MY THOUGHTS.....

A female poacher, an English gentleman, his tormented sister, and an unknown stalker...I loved this new novel by Michelle Griep! She swept me back to early 19th-century England in this thrilling story that's both mystery and romance. They were separated by social class, but I loved the magnetic connection between Juliet and Henry. Her present circumstances may have hidden her former status, but Henry didn't doubt that Juliet was a lady. And Juliet couldn't ignore Henry either!

Griep cleverly left a trail of deceptive clues in Juliet and Henry's frantic search for his sister Charity. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages, and the reveal of the villain's identity was like the finale of a fine-tuned symphony! And then the story's ending...oh, my!

I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy mesmerizing romance, intriguing suspense, and inspiring faith journeys. The Bird of Bedford Manor is Regency fiction at its best, and I would give it more than 5 stars, if I could!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. 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   



Sunday, February 15, 2026

You Always Belong: Knowing God’s Love and Finding Your Place by Jinger Duggar Vuolo & Jeremy Vuolo

You Always Belong: Knowing God’s Love and Finding Your Place
#ad #sponsored by W Publishing / HarperCollins Christian Publishing

ABOUT THE BOOK

Is your child striving for perfection or seeking the approval of others? You Always Belong, inspired by the bestselling nonfiction book People Pleaser, is a beautiful book that helps children understand their worth isn’t based on pleasing others or being perfect. Written by New York Times bestselling author Jinger Duggar Vuolo and Jeremy Vuolo, this book gently explores how God loves us unconditionally, how we always belong in his love, and how it’s OK to have boundaries and even to say no sometimes.

 

Perfect for children ages 4 and up, You Always Belong encourages kids to ask, “Who am I?” and find their true worth and purpose in being a beloved child of God. Through engaging storytelling, your child will learn:

•    God’s unconditional love.

•    That their worth comes from being his child, not from their performance.

•    How to break the cycle of habits, mindsets, and peer pressure that self-sabotage.

•    The importance of obedience, self-discipline, and character-building, while understanding these are expressions of kindness and love.


For more info or to purchase a copy, please visit  https://amzn.to/3LcSAu1 


MY THOUGHTS.....

You Always Belong is such an inviting book for children! It has beautiful illustrations, easy-to-read text, and encouraging words to remind them that each of them is special. Smaller children will be captivated by the vivid colors and older children will recognize what is being shown in those pictures. The simple but rhyming test is another attraction, and I loved that over and over, they hear the words "you always belong".

We know that older children experience peer pressure, but younger children feel it too! This book reminds them that awards and achievements are fine, but the ultimate proof of their self-worth is that all belong to God! They all have a place, and they all are loved! 

Authors Jinger Duggar Vuolo and Jeremy Vuolo share sweet motivation in this new book and I appreciate that a simple salvation message is included as well! You Always Belong is an awesome book for families to read together, but beginner readers will love reading it on their own. I plan to use it in my Sunday school class, and it would also be a perfect gift for all of the littles in your life!

I received a complimentary review copy from Zonderkidz via FrontGate Media. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

#youalwaysbelong #kidsbook #jingerandjeremy #zonderkidz #sponsored #ad @jingervuolo @jingerandjeremy @jeremy_vuolo @zonderkidz

#Sponsored by W Publishing / HarperCollins Christian Publishing





ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Jinger Duggar Vuolo and Jeremy Vuolo are authors and speakers dedicated to sharing their faith and family values. Jinger, a New York Times bestselling author, grew up in Springdale, Arkansas, as part of the Duggar family and first appeared on TLC’s 19 Kids and Counting, later joining Counting On with Jeremy after their marriage. A gifted violinist and pianist, she uses her musical talents to support meaningful causes. Jeremy, originally from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, is a former professional soccer player now serving in full-time ministry. The Vuolos live in Los Angeles, California, with their three children.⁣

Monday, February 9, 2026

Ambush of the Heart (Rocky Mountain Marshals #1) by Mary Connealy

Ambush of the Heart (Rocky Mountain Marshals #1)
ABOUT THE BOOK

As Owen Riley and his fellow marshals escort Delaney Bridger, her brother, and an escaped prisoner to Fort Russell, a gang of outlaws ambushes them, bringing death and devastation to their party. With their lives on the line and the outlaws in pursuit, Owen directs the rest of his battered group to temporarily seek hiding at a remote ranch.

After the attack leaves her brother seriously injured, Delaney helps Owen to nurse him and a wounded marshal back to health while danger looms ever closer. Despite the threat at their heels, romance sparks between Owen and Delaney as they fight for survival on their perilous wilderness trek toward the fort. Can they overcome the obstacles and find a future together?

Mary Connealy begins this series with a wild adventure of love, faith, courage, and resilience in the rugged wilderness of 1870s Colorado.








MY THOUGHTS.....

When the first sentence of a book explains that "a bullet whizzed past him, so close he felt the heat of it", you know that riveting adventure is ahead. So true, because the danger is real and it never seems to end! Two U.S. Marshals believe they can safely deliver a prisoner and two people in need of protection to Fort Russell within the week, but nature and the prisoner's outlaw family turn it into a challenge they may be unable to overcome!

Author Mary Connealy has a knack for creating unforgettable characters, page-turning drama, and heartwarming romance. Delaney and Owen's relationship is the main focus, but a large cast of characters and the realistic hardships of the Colorado wilderness produce additional interest and conflict.

I enjoyed Ambush of the Heart and look forward to the other books in the Rocky Mountain Marshals series. I recommend this book to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.

I received a complimentary copy from the author, publisher, and NetGalley. 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


Rocky Mountain Marshals

Ambush of the Heart


Thursday, February 5, 2026

Marrying the Matchmaker (A Shanahan Match, #4) by Jody Hedlund

Marrying the Matchmaker (A Shanahan Match, #4)
ABOUT THE BOOK

As the middle child of the Shanahan family, Zaira does her best to keep the peace. She doesn't share her dream of becoming a published author with her family to spare herself their disapproval. When she's caught in a scandal involving the local matchmaker, Bellamy McKenna, she must put her storytelling ability to good use and feign a match with him to avoid wagging tongues and her parents' anger.

Feeling the growing pressure to marry as a well-known, yet single matchmaker to St. Louis's Irish community, Bellamy reluctantly agrees to a temporary match with Zaira. But even though the matchmakers in his family might be able to find love for others, they have a history of disastrous relationships for themselves. When secrets and danger force Zaira and Bellamy to work together, is it finally the matchmaker's turn to be lucky in love?

Hedlund delivers another captivating romance with sizzling chemistry in this romantic conclusion to her beloved matchmaking series.









MY THOUGHTS.....

Readers first met this Irish matchmaker when he helped Finola Shanahan find true love. Now, three books later, Bellamy McKenna's career may be at risk because he's still a single man. If he's so good at finding love for others, why isn't he married himself? Could it be that Bellamy believes that the McKenna family is cursed in relationships? Is he afraid to take a chance on marriage?

I've loved this series with matchmakers, arranged marriages, and unexpected romances, and I can't imagine a better way to end it! Secrets are revealed, including Bellamy's artistic talent and his long-time attraction for Zaira Shanahan. But what about Zaira's secret? She's become a published author, but she can't allow her family to know. Her editor wants her to add romance to her stories, but she doesn't have the experience to draw upon. Is a fake relationship with the Irish matchmaker the answer to her problems?

Marrying the Matchmaker is a tantalizing blend of humor, emotions, and historical details, but romance is certainly the main ingredient! Once again, Hedlund proves that romantic fiction can sizzle but still be considered clean. Bellamy and Zaira's chemistry is off the charts, but it's left up to us readers to fill in the details!

If you enjoy history that includes the Irish community and the cholera epidemic in the mid-1800s, this book is for you. If you appreciate page-turning sweetness woven with faith, grab a copy of Marrying the Matchmaker today! I highly recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars





ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of more than 50 novels 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


A SHANAHAN MATCH

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Tuesday, February 3, 2026

An Appearance of Impropriety by Jayna Breigh

An Appearance of Impropriety
ABOUT THE BOOK

As the youngest female judge in LA, Mahalia Jackson has her career goals carefully aligned. But when her mentor tells her she needs to break her shell of professionalism and show a little heart by volunteering for the Junior Jurors program, her plans begin to falter.

Attorney JD Cash heads up the Junior Jurors program, a project born out of his own troubled past. He leverages his position as an attorney to fulfill God's calling on his life, supporting the orphans and widows of society who have lost beloved husbands and fathers to TransNation's eighteen-wheeled time bombs roaming America's freeways.

Mahalia's rule—never date a lawyer—is a straitjacket that tightens when she presides over the case where JD serves as a young widow's attorney. But when an earthquake leaves JD and Mahalia in a vulnerable position, her resolve begins to waver and she finds herself opening up to the sad-eyed lawyer. But online, anonymous colleagues and adversaries attempt to destroy Mahalia’s reputation and career.

A legal drama threaded with romance, An Appearance of Impropriety will show readers that real love is worth the risk.



MY THOUGHTS.....

I was impressed by Jayna Breigh's debut novel last year, and this second book proves that she won't be considered a "one-hit wonder author"!  Breigh's knowledge and experience as a retired lawyer are evident in both the characters and plot of An Appearance of Impropriety. Mahalia Jackson is a career-driven judge who has no desire for a personal life until she encounters lawyer Jimmy Dean Cash.

I loved the legal jargon, compelling suspense, and intriguing characters in this story, but there was so much more! The thought-provoking plot often challenged me personally as I followed the spiritual and emotional growth of an "all by myself" judge and a "help somebody today" lawyer!

if you enjoy legal drama that's woven with faith and romance, grab a copy of An Appearance of Impropriety. You won't be disappointed!

I received a digital ARC from the author, and I also purchased my own print copy. I was under no obligation to write a 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.  

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Want to learn more? Visit her Website     
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An Appearance of Impropriety

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