Murder, Plainly Written (The Plain Order Ink Society) by Mindy Steele

ABOUT THE BOOK

She just wanted to fit into Amish Country. . .now she’s standing out!
 
First novel in The Plain Order Ink Society series, in which Amish writers crack the case of local mysteries.
 
Sadie Lynch thought inheriting her late Amish aunt’s candle shop was a blessing—a chance to leave her stalled writing career behind and find a fresh start. But running a Plain business when she's not Amish isn’t exactly filling her store with customers—especially when the local minister insists she sell out.
 
Sadie, who doesn’t want to leave, thankfully meets Wanda—an Amish woman with a secret obsession. As Wanda continues to visit the candle shop, an unexpected partnership blooms when Wanda agrees to help Sadie’s shop in exchange for writing advice.
 
But the grand reopening of the candle shop takes a deadly turn when the body of the Amish minister is discovered behind the counter. Now Sadie is the only suspect, prompting Wanda and the Plain Order Ink Society to try helping her solve the mystery.
 
But in this Plain community, secrets burn brighter than flames—and nothing is as simple as it seems.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Mindy Steele tackles a new genre in her newest book, and she successfully scores a touchdown! I loved Murder, Plainly Written, the first book in her new cozy mystery series from Barbour Publishing. It has an unlikely friendship between a middle-aged Amish woman and a younger Englisch woman, a group of fledgling Amish writers who quickly become amateur detectives, and, of all things, a murder! I could understand that the often demanding Amish minister was disliked, but who would consider murdering him?

Clever clues that are sometimes misleading kept me guessing, but there's also the intrigue of two romantic entanglements. One ended long ago, and the other is plagued with obstacles, but I've learned that Steele often provides hope for troubled relationships! I can only hope that we'll find answers in the next book in the Plain Order Ink Society.

If you enjoy wonderful character development, witty dialogue, and a charming blend of Amish common sense and inspiration, grab a copy of Murder, Plainly Written. It is a must-read for fans of Amish fiction and cozy mysteries!

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

Raised in Kentucky timber country, Mindy Steele writes Amish Romance peppered in humor, using her rural surroundings as her muse. She is a best-selling author and the winner of the 2022 FHLCW Reader's Choice award for sweet romance. Steele creates realistic characters for her readers and believes in engaging all the senses to make you laugh, cry, hold your breath, and root for the happy-ever-after ending. Readers can find themselves, somewhere within the pages of her Amish fiction or romantic suspense novels.

Learn more by visiting Mindy's Website. 

You can also follow her on Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter  

 

The Plain Order Ink Society

Murder, Plainly Written  

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Wanda E. Brunstetter's Inspiring Year of Transition: A Mini-Interview

Many people are aware that this well-known Amish author suffered a tremendous loss last year, when Richard Brunstetter, her beloved husband of 62 years, died on July 25, 2025 in Yakima, WA. In a recent mini-interview, Wanda E. Brunstetter graciously shares her thoughts about this year of transition. 

Question #1: This has been a year of change for you. Can you give a brief update on how you are doing and what you are working on for your readers?

    I still have times of missing my dear husband, who passed away almost a year ago, but keeping busy has helped. I am currently working on the first book in a new series set in Ohio. The name of Book 1 is The Persistent Bachelor, which is scheduled to come out in March 2027. In this series, there will be two more books to follow.

Question #2: What Scripture is most meaningful to you right now?

    A verse I have found to be very meaningful to me is: "Behold, God is my helper, the Lord is the upholder of my life." Psalm 54:4 (ESV)

Question #3: What do you love most about writing books with your family members?

    It's been fun to write with family members, because we are able to talk one-on-one and share ideas with each other. Often times, as in the case of The Melody of Love, which I wrote with my daughter, Lorine, we found that our writing styles were so similar, we sometimes had trouble remembering who wrote certain sections when the book was done.

Question #4: What do you hope readers take away from The Melody of Love?

    My hope is that readers will have not only enjoyed the storyline, but will come away with a better understanding of what it's like for a parent to raise a child on the spectrum. We also wanted to offer some ways that would help the child and parent deal with circumstances that might arise, such as melt-downs and dealing with sensory issues. Lorine and I hope that our novel will offer the assurance that, with God's help, we can face any of the obstacles that may come our way in this life.

I'm sure all of her fans continue to pray for Mrs. Wanda as she continues to share her faith through her inspirational Amish fiction!

Order/Pre-order links for her latest books are listed below.

The Melody of Love   July 1, 2026

The Beloved Christmas Quilt  September 1, 2026  (Reissue)

A Castle of Sand  October 1, 2026

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Create Stronger Relationships and Deeper Faith with Your Kids and Teens

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

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

This practical and accessible guide equips you to have meaningful spiritual conversations with your kids. Each chapter offers

● a clear teaching on a Benedictine practice

● a hands-on creative activity

● thoughtful reflection questions designed to spark interest and deepen faith

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

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

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

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

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Christmas novellas from three award-winning suspense authors

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


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

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


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

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


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

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

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

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

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

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

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

Learn more by visiting her Website

Follow her on Facebook     X (Twitter)     Instagram   

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     

Follow her on Facebook     X     Instagram     Pinterest

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

You can connect with Kimberley at her Website     Facebook    Instagram    Twitter

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Searching for the Stolen Son (Thunder Ridge Justice, #3) by Connie Queen

ABOUT THE BOOK

Tracking a kidnapper

makes this K-9 and his handler a target.

While training her search-and-rescue puppy, Emma Cantrell stumbles upon an infant alone in the woods—only to be attacked while attempting to rescue the baby. Emma and her K-9 companion race after the fleeing assailant, crossing paths with rancher Gunner Jacobs, who is desperately searching for his missing son. Despite a complicated past, Emma and Gunner are forced to join forces to save his little boy. As relentless gunmen close in, Emma and Gunner find themselves in a perilous race against time. Can they survive long enough to figure out who kidnapped Gunner’s son before they both end up dead?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Gunner Jacobs faces a parent's worst nightmare when he returns home to find his 10-month-old son missing. What follows is an emotionally charged, edge-of-your-seat search that kept me wondering if baby Caleb would ever be found.

Author Connie Queen shares a well-written story full of danger, suspense, and conflict. I loved the characters, including a special K-9 named Parker, and the hope, faith, and romance that fueled this engaging story. Searching for the Stolen Son is a great addition to the Thunder Ridge Justice series!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Connie Queen spent her life in Texas where she met and married her high-school sweetheart. Together they’ve raised eight children and are enjoying their grandchildren. As a child, Connie remembers her mom and sisters reading, but she preferred to be outside. It wasn't until later, she found the joy of being whisked away into another world. Today she resides in Nebraska with her husband, and Nash, her Great Dane, where she’s working on her next suspense.

Visit her Website or follow her on   Facebook     Twitter   Instagram

THUNDER RIDGE JUSTICE

Shielded by the Cowboy

Texas Cowboy Protector

Searching for the Stolen Son

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The Reluctant Healer of Halifax (Enduring Hope #6) by Terrie Todd

ABOUT THE BOOK

Her Family, Her Home, Her Future—All Leveled in One Thunderous Explosion

When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Three days ago, Pearline Campbell's family was whole and Oliver Hamilton still loved her. But upon returning to Halifax disfigured and shellshocked, Oliver ended their relationship. Then came Thursday, December 6, 1917, when the Halifax harbor was leveled by a tremendous explosion. . .and Pearline fears nothing will ever be whole again. Her parents are dead, her brother is missing, and her sister refuses to speak. Pearline must fortify herself to open her home to needy orphans, including an unidentified baby. Where can she find the strength for each new day as misery grips the city?

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

I am a history nerd, so how have I never known about the horrifying event that prompted this story? The Reluctant Healer of Halifax chronicles the horrifying event that occurred in Nova Scotia in December 1917, and the far-reaching consequences that followed. It's obvious that author Terrie Todd devoted many hours to researching The Great Halifax Explosion, but this book is much more than facts on a page. Her mesmerizing words catapulted me into the chaos of that ship's explosion and swept me along with the trauma and life-changing repercussions.

Engaging characters and a troubled romance kept me turning the pages, but the real engagement came from the poignant emotions and inspiring displays of resiliency. The Reluctant Healer of Halifax is a fantastic addition to the Enduring Hope series.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Terrie Todd’s historical novels have won numerous Word Guild Awards, the Braun Book Award, and the Debra Fieguth Social Justice Award. She’s the recipient of the 2018 Janette Oak award from Inscribe Christian Writers Fellowship and was a 2023 finalist in the ACFW Carol Awards. She’s also a frequent contributor to Guideposts Books. Terrie lives with her husband, Jon, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada, where they raised their three children. They are grandparents to five boys. When she’s not writing, Terrie can be found reading, gardening, baking, or helping her community theatre group.

Follow Terrie on     Facebook     Instagram

ENDURING HOPE SERIES

The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn

The Daughter of Shiloh by Terri J. Haynes

The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debbie Lee

The Girl from Tomorrow's Town by Naomi Dawn Musch

The Reluctant Healer of Halifax

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The Christmas House by Erin Napier (Author), Adam Trest, (Illustrator)

ABOUT THE BOOK

Hang the stockings, cozy up by the fire, and celebrate the holidays inside The Christmas House, a classic story from designer Erin Napier of HGTV's Home Town and folk artist Adam Trest. Told from the house's point of view, this picture book welcomes your family into an old home that cherishes the tradition of being illuminated, decorated, and filled with joy.

This eloquent celebration of being home for the holidays captures the essence of cherished Christmas memories and . . .

is a holiday companion to the bestselling book, The Lantern House;takes you through preparing a house for the holiday from bringing decorations down from the attic, setting out the hand-carved nativity scene in the living room, baking cookies in the kitchen, and uncovering a family treasure in the basement;invites you into a family's annual winter rituals and memory making;honors the impact of a passed family member whose presence fills memories, traditions, and family values; andcomes in a beautiful, giftable package with a book jacket and foil, all printed in the United States.Welcome home to the Christmas House, where vanilla and cinnamon waft from the kitchen, a Christmas tree glows from the window, and Grandpa's old cracked, wooden Christmas star is the most important decoration.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

"I am a very old house, and I glow like a lantern in the night. But once a year, at Christmastime, I glow even brighter."

It isn't often that a book's main character is a house, but this imaginative story shows preparations for the Christmas season through the eyes of a family home. Boxes of decorations are carried down from the attic, special ornaments are hung on the tree, and joys of past Christmases are remembered in this charming new book by Erin Napier. The colorful illustrations and easy-to-read text are especially appealing to young readers, and reading this book together as a family will surely become a new holiday tradition! The Christmas House is a delightful addition to both family and school libraries.

I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley. There was no obligation for a positive review.

#thechristmashouse #netgalley

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHORS  

Erin Napier is a designer, author, and entrepreneur. Along with her husband, Ben Napier, she is the co-host of HGTV’s Home Town, co-author of Make Something Good Today and founding co-owner of their stores Laurel Mercantile Co. and Scotsman General Store & Woodshop. She lives in Laurel, Mississippi/

 Learn more at her Website 

Follow Erin on Instagram

Adam Trest is an illustrator and painter whose work is rooted in storytelling and a deep connection to place. Raised in Laurel, Mississippi, Adam draws inspiration from the landscapes, wildlife, and everyday moments of the American South. His illustrations are known for their warmth, narrative richness, and ability to invite viewers into scenes that feel both timeless and personal.

Adam is the illustrator of The Lantern House, a New York Times bestselling picture book written by Erin Napier. His painterly approach often incorporates symbolic detail and layered meaning, reflecting his belief that every image should carry a story worth discovering.

Follow Adam on Instagram

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When the Silence Breaks (Mercy Ridge #1) by Elizabeth Goddard

ABOUT THE BOOK

When intelligence analyst Sarah Ellison learns of a deathbed confession connected to her brother's murder, she's determined to protect her remaining family. Under further investigation, she discovers the disclosed information points to a decades-old government secret buried deep in the Cascade Mountains. With this knowledge, she heads to the Pacific Northwest looking for a guide who knows the mountains like the back of their hand.

Ryder Goodwin, a wilderness guide and former Navy SEAL, quit guiding for the family business after his father's death in a tragic mountain accident. At first, Ryder refuses to help Sarah, but he sees the trouble chasing her, and he can't stand by while someone brings danger to this small-town mountain community.

Ryder and Sarah gear up to climb the mountain in a race against time and a looming winter storm. With her brother's killer closing in, their search for answers now shifts to a survival mission. Their only chance to make it out involves trusting each other and confronting the truth no one wants them to find.

Be swept away in a rush of adrenaline with USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard's series opener set in the Pacific Northwest.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Secrets can't stay buried forever.

Talk about a turbulent adventure! No one does romantic suspense better than Elizabeth Goddard, but her storytelling reaches another level in When the Silence Breaks. She straps readers into a roller-coaster ride of secrets, twists, and turns that sometimes gave me heart palpitations! From the first sentence to a spine-chilling confrontation with the villain...the nail-biting suspense never ceased!

A perilous search in the rugged terrain of the Cascade Mountains is the beginning of a special bond between Sarah Ellison and Ryder Goodwin. You can't experience mudslides, the threat of a volcano, and being pursued by a relentless assailant without developing a true dependence on each other! Add a deepening romantic awareness and an increasing reliance on God, and the result is romantic Christian suspense at its best!

I loved this book! If you enjoy intriguing characters, second-chances, and heart-pounding suspense, grab a copy of When the Silence Breaks. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the Mercy Ridge series!

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

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MERCY RIDGE

When the Silence Breaks

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Rodeo Witness Protector (Stone Creek Ranch, 3) by Sami A. Abrams

ABOUT THE BOOK

A dangerous conspiracy…
and a child in the crosshairs.

While stopping an attack near the rodeo grounds, bullfighter and part-time deputy Daniel Sinclair is stunned to see his high school sweetheart attempting to save a stabbed undercover deputy. As a witness now in possession of crucial evidence about a narcotics investigation, new rodeo doctor Annie Davis needs Daniel’s protection—for her and her missing four-year-old daughter. And the stakes only grow higher when the girl’s babysitter is found murdered and the recovered child refuses to speak. To safeguard the targeted family, can Daniel uncover who is behind it all…before a drug ring silences them for good?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

High school sweethearts. Misunderstandings. A child in danger. Unexpected reunion. Author Sami A. Abrams packs a lot of drama into this heart-tugging story featuring the new rodeo doctor, Anderson Davis, aka Annie Davis. Annie's excitement over her job soon turns to disbelief and terror. Who is targeting her four-year-old daughter?

Abram's trademark thrills, chills, and danger fill the pages of Rodeo Witness Protector, but they also include a second-chance romance and an inspiring message of faith. If you want an emotionally charged story with an unexpected "bad guy", grab a copy of Rodeo Witness Protector, the third book in the Stone Creek Ranch series!

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning, bestselling author Sami A. Abrams and her husband live in Northern California, but she’ll always be a Kansas girl at heart. She enjoys visiting her two grown children and spoiling their sweet fur babies. Most evenings, if Sami’s not watching sports, you’ll find her engrossed in a romantic suspense novel. She thinks a crime plus a little romance is the recipe for a great story. 

Visit her Website

Follow her on        Facebook     Twitter     Instagram  

Stone Creek Ranch

Book 1: Christmas Rodeo Killer

Book 2: Deadly Rodeo Threat

Book 3: Rodeo Witness Protector

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In a Word, Yes by Kit Tosello

ABOUT THE BOOK

Lucy Montgomery excels at drawing boundaries and avoiding risk. Her favorite word is no, and she's not afraid to use it. It's been five years since she picked up the leftovers from a crumbled marriage and started over with her brilliantly unique autistic son in Charity Falls, Oregon. As a single mom, she now works behind the scenes at a local newspaper. Enter Wyatt Hayes--an affable local police officer with the soul of a poet and the kindness she's always craved. A man who's more than eager to help her break free from her security blanket of an adventure-free life.
 
Lucy's celebrity mother, Carly Montgomery--a vivacious and beloved women's Bible study leader--can't deny a sense of weariness. But if she doesn't remain in perpetual motion, her regrets are bound to catch up with her. Despite the outward appearance of a perfect empty nester-life, she's kept her daughter at arms' length and has already missed so much of her young grandson's life. Is it too late to turn that around?
 
For Lucy and Carly to restore their relationship, and for Lucy and Wyatt to embrace the risk of loving, it will take a big step of faith to reconcile the past together.
 
Touching on life's complex and often humorous topics of relationships and family, Kit Tosello presents a story of romance, second chances, emotional healing, and faith.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS....

Love. The consuming love of a mother for her son. The amazing bond between a daughter and mother. A second chance for romantic love. Did I enjoy this book about the many kinds of love? In a Word, Yes!

In a Word, Yes is the poignant story of a young, divorced woman who has chosen to devote her life completely to her autistic nine-year-old son, Chase. Lucy Montgomery lives in a small community and works at the local newspaper, The Mountain Messenger, and this gives author Kit Tosello a brilliant avenue to show Lucy's love for words. It was so fun to have little-known words and their definitions at the beginning of each new chapter, and I learned so much!

Lucy, a bit of an introvert, is encouraged by a local police officer to accept new challenges. I loved seeing her blossom due to his friendship and a renewed relationship with her parents. Carly Montgomery is a noted author, but she's also experiencing her own conflicts. Would Lucy accept her offer to co-author a book together? Could this be a way for Carly to spend more time with Lucy and Chase? Would Lucy's talents finally be used for more than small articles in the newspaper?

This heartwarming women's fiction novel offers romance, new beginnings, and second chances, but it's also very realistic. The emotions are real, and Tosello shows that overcoming pain and disappointment takes time, and changing one's life requires hope and deep belief. I was deeply inspired by the message of faith woven throughout this captivating story!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kit Tosello is an award-winning writer of small-town contemporary fiction with a big heart, as well as inspirational essays and devotionals. With her eye trained on the beauty hiding in plain sight all around us, she arranges words with tenderness, humor, and, ultimately, hope. When not writing, Kit can be found in the loose tea shop she operates with her husband, exploring the great Pacific Northwest, or enjoying the “great indoors”—bookstores & libraries . Most likely with a matcha latte in hand.

Learn more at Kit's Website

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Encountering Jesus: A Bible Study for Beginners by Bethany House Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

An Easy-to-Understand, Practical Study on the Life and Ministry of Jesus

If you've ever wanted to study the Bible but didn't know where to start, this study was made for you. Encountering Jesus is a friendly, accessible six-session introduction to the life and ministry of Jesus, designed specifically for beginners. No prior Bible knowledge required. Just an open mind and a willingness to encounter the person at the center of all four Gospels.

Throughout the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we meet Jesus of Nazareth as he moves through first-century Judea--teaching, healing, and stopping to encounter people in all their complexity: the rich young ruler, the woman at the well, Nicodemus, blind Bartimaeus, the woman caught in adultery, the forgotten, the powerful, and the outcast. Some of those encounters brought transformation. Others were met with resistance and anger. All of them reveal who Jesus is--and all of them still speak today.

Each of the six sessions includes:
● An overview of the passage and its context--so you always know where you are in the story
● Bible study strategies--practical tools for engaging Scripture on a deeper level that you'll carry into every Bible study you do from here
● Memory verses and prayer prompts--to help the words of Jesus take root in your daily life
● Questions for further reflection--designed to spark meaningful conversation in a group or honest self-examination on your own

This study is ideal for new believers taking their first steps in Scripture, for anyone who has attended church for years but never felt confident reading the Bible on their own, and for small group leaders looking for an accessible, substantive six-week curriculum. It works equally well for personal study or group use

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Encountering Jesus: A Bible Study for Beginners is the perfect choice for novice Christians or anyone wanting to understand God's Word. The study notes are clear and concise, and each of the thirty selections in this six-week study follows the same format: appropriate Scripture, insightful commentary, prayer prompts, and space to record our thoughts.

This engaging six-week bible study delivers exactly what it promises. Participants get to encounter Jesus as the Messiah, the Rabbi, the Teacher, the Shepherd, the King, and the Savior! Yes, it targets beginners, but I am finding so much to increase my own Bible knowledge! Encountering Jesus is a wonderful resource!

Thank you, Bethany House, for the complimentary copy. There was no obligation to post a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bethany House Publishers is part of the largest independent Christian book publisher and seeks to uplift readers' families, faith, and free time with our library of industry-leading fiction and bestselling, Christ-centered nonfiction.

Learn more at this Website.

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The Amazing Crab Alley Revival by Sharon Wilharm

ABOUT THE BOOK

The year is 1897 and wealthy widow Lydia Culpepper is evaluating her mundane existence. For sixty-three years, she’s faithfully gone through the motions of fulfilling everyone else’s expectations for her life, but nothing she does is ever enough. She longs for something more. When a young boy comes to her house in search of his missing coon dog, she gets her wish. She meets Emily Reed, a young finishing school instructor, and Opal Jackson, an Irish single mother, and the three women join together on a mission that turns the First Community Church on its head. Suddenly, the town is in an uproar as lives are being changed. When Yellow Fever hits, it looks like their efforts may have been in vain, but the epidemic isn’t enough to thwart the fruits of the Crab Alley Revival.

A Southern historical retelling of Lydia in the Bible.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Lydia Culpepper, the last remaining member of the First Baptist Church's founding family, is feeling burdened. She's enjoyed sixty-five years of attending church, so why shouldn't everyone have the same chance in Port Royal, Florida? What needed to be done so that each of them could experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from worshipping God?

"A revival is nothing else than a new beginning of obedience to God."--- Charles Finney

It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel! Multi-faceted characters and a well-developed story kept me fully engaged, but I was also challenged by the thought-provoking message in The Amazing Crab Alley Revival. What good is perfect church attendance if we don't put our convictions to work? Lydia wanted a revival in Port Royal. Isn't a revival exactly what is needed today?

I was deeply touched when Lydia and Emily took the Word of God to the people of Crab Alley. Oh, the joy when the children learned about God and His love! I couldn't stop smiling!

Author Sharon Wilharm gives readers a heartwarming story of faith, dedication, and renewal. I highly recommend it to all who enjoy Christian fiction.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sharon Wilharm has always loved stories, especially those about ordinary women being used by God in extraordinary ways.

As author of Women of Prayer Bible study and host of All God's Women podcast and radio show, Sharon shares stories of God's faithfulness in the lives of women in the Bible.

In her debut historical novel, The Amazing Crab Alley Revival, she explores those same themes of faith, hope, and redemption through richly-drawn characters and Southern settings. Drawing on her experience as a filmmaker and storyteller, she creates uplifting fiction with hope, humor, and second chances.

A native Floridian, Sharon now lives in a historic Queen Anne house in a small Tennessee town north of Nashville. When she's not writing, Sharon can be found antiquing, thrifting, browsing estate sales, or working alongside her husband to rescue neglected historic commercial buildings and bring them back to life.

Learn more at her Website

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