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!

Friday, January 23, 2026

On Living Stone: Salome's Story (Women of the Way, #3) by Heather Kaufman

On Living Stone: Salome's Story (Women of the Way, #3)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Growing up by the Sea of Galilee, Salome is restless to find her place and purpose. Because of her wild temperament and quick tongue, some claim she'll never secure a future. When Adonai gifts her both a husband and sons, Salome is determined to silence her critics and prove she can be a good mother to her boys, James and John.

Salome's dreams for her sons are challenged, however, when they answer the call to follow Jesus of Nazareth. Is this man a dangerous false teacher like some who've come before him, or is he truly the hoped-for Messiah? While James and John are drawn deeper into Jesus's ministry, Salome must count the cost of discipleship and confront her fears, even as she discovers her own worth in this most unexpected rabbi.

Heather Kaufman delivers a powerful story of faith, redemption, and transforming love that will inspire courage and captivate fans of biblical fiction.







MY THOUGHTS.....

How does she do it? How does this author create such captivating fiction while remaining true to the Bible scripture that prompted it? I knew of Salome because she is mentioned several times in the New Testament Gospels, but now, I feel like I truly KNOW her. I have been offered a glimpse of her life as a devoted wife, loving mother, and passionate follower of a young rabbi called Jesus. All because of the haunting words of author Heather Kaufman! 

Kaufman's extensive research allows her to imagine Salome's many emotions during her momentous life. Becoming Zebedee's wife, watching her babies grow into young men, and braving the separation when James and John leave to become disciples of Jesus. There's also the fear associated with the danger of following this special man! The passages as Salome battles her doubts and fears to find her own discipleship are especially riveting!

I challenge anyone to remain unaffected by the raw, realistic emotions shared throughout this book. The last pages of On Living Stone: Salome's Story are poignant reminders of what was sacrificed, what seemed lost, but what truly was gained! This book and the two other books in Kaufman's Women of the Way series exemplify biblical fiction at its best!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars






ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heather’s passion for storytelling started at an early age, from scribbled poetry at age six, to a full-length novel by sixteen. Over the years, her love of writing grew, eventually leading her to earn a BA in English from McKendree University and an MA in English, Writing Studies from the University of Missouri—St. Louis.


Heather is the author of multiple books and devotions and delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling.


She is married to Andrew and together they have three adorable children and one persnickety dog. When not reading, writing, editing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her family, enjoying yet another cup of coffee, or working on a home improvement  project. She and her family make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.


Learn more by visiting Heather's     Website      Facebook     Instagram


WOMEN OF THE WAY

On Living Stone: Salome's Story
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Tuesday, January 20, 2026

When I'm With You (Home to Hearts Bend #1) by Rachel Hauck

When I'm With You  (Home to Hearts Bend #1)
ABOUT THE BOOK

She had her life mapped out perfectly—until love rewrote every plan.

Elizabeth Dorsey doesn't do detours. Fresh from MIT with honors and her sights set on Wharton's MBA program, she's got her next twenty years planned down to the minute. A quick summer stint at the family furniture business in sleepy Hearts Bend, Tennessee? Just a pit stop before conquering the Fortune 100.

But some destinations are worth changing course for.

Enter Ryder Donovan—the wildlife officer who once filled her teenage summers with friendship and innocent longing. Now he's all grown up, devastatingly handsome, and stirring feelings that threaten to derail everything Elizabeth thought she wanted. When a mysterious fire brings them together and false accusations tear them apart, Elizabeth must choose between the future she's always planned and the love she never saw coming.

In Hearts Bend, Tennessee, some fires burn hotter than others...

As Elizabeth uncovers fraud that could destroy Ryder's career, their chemistry ignites into something neither can ignore. But with her acceptance to Wharton finally in hand and Ryder facing a job offer in Colorado, can two people heading in opposite directions find their way to the same future?

Sometimes the biggest risk isn't following your dreams—it's having the courage to change them.

"A swoon-worthy romance that perfectly captures the magic of small-town love and second chances. Elizabeth and Ryder's story will have you believing in happily ever after all over again." Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling author

Perfect for fans Debbie Macomber • Susan Mallery • RaeAnne Thayne






MY THOUGHTS.....

There's so much to love about this book, including wonderful characters, a delightful small-town setting, and swoon-worthy romance! Elizabeth Dorsey renews her friendship with Ryder Donovan during her summer return to Hearts Bend, and it doesn't take long for old feelings to resurface. They seem perfect for each other, but she is too focused on her career to accept it. I wanted to shake Elizabeth because even though she was loved and supported by a loving family and an awesome man, she was oblivious to what she was throwing away!

It's been a while since I've read a Rachel Hauck book, and this book reminds me of what I've missed. When I'm With You is a poignant story with strong family devotion. misguided goals, and a mystery surrounding Ryder. I recommend When I'm With You to all who enjoy heartwarming second-chance romance.

I received a complimentary eBook from Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars




ABOUT THE AUTHOR


New York Times, USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Rachel Hauck writes from sunny central Florida. A RITA finalist and winner of Romantic Times Inspirational Novel of the Year, and Career Achievement Award, she writes vivid characters dealing with real life issues. Readers have fallen in love with the quaint and loveable small town of Hearts Bend, TN introduced in the NYT bestselling The Wedding Dress which launched her Wedding Collection novels. Visit her at www.rachelhauck.com.




RETURN TO HEART'S BEND

When I'm With You
Anyone But You (**Previously published in 2022 as One Fine Day)
What If I Stay (**Previously published in 2022 as You'll Be Mine)