Book Review: The Escape Game by Gina Holder

Happy Friday Bookworms!

Today kicks off my birthday weekend, and I am starting off the festivities in a unique way. We are planning a birthday trip to a local escape room, so I thought I'd get in the spirit and read a novel that is set in an escape room. Not only was it an exciting read, but it also got me even more pumped for my own escape game!

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Romantic Suspense and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Escape Game by Gina Holder, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Escape Game 
Series: The Game Masters 
Author: Gina Holder 
Publisher: Scrivenings Press 
Release Date: May 5, 2026 
Genre: Romantic Suspense

Twenty years ago, the world’s leading enigmatologist disappeared, leaving behind a cipher no one could solve… not without his journal. 

Puzzle shop owner Demi Kayne has spent twenty years hoping her father would return home. When she discovers his hidden journal, she finally uncovers the clue she’s been waiting for—but it leads somewhere far more dangerous than she imagined. 

Liam Shepherd, a missionary and escape-room enthusiast, is searching for answers of his own. His sister has vanished without a trace, and the trail of clues leads him straight to Demi—and the secrets hidden in her father’s journal. 

Their search brings them to the eerie Ives Mansion, where its brilliant and reclusive owner has designed a deadly challenge. Once inside, Demi and Liam realize they’re no longer guests. 

They’re players. 

Trapped inside a twisted real-life mystery game, they must solve a series of lethal riddles before time runs out. Each puzzle brings them closer to the truth about Demi’s missing father and Liam’s sister —but also deeper into a carefully crafted game where the stakes are far higher than they're ready to face. 

With the clock ticking and lives hanging in the balance, Demi and Liam must confront their fears, their pasts, and the faith that may be their only hope of escape. 

In this gripping Christian suspense novel, every clue matters—and every mistake could be fatal.  

Can Demi and Liam solve the final puzzle before the game ends…or will the escape room become their tomb? 

Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, and Irene Hannon who enjoy puzzle-driven Christian suspense filled with danger, secrets, and faith under fire.

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Book Spotlight: The Hometown Cop's Forever Family by Tara Randel

Hello Bookworms!

This year my 45th birthday falls on Mother's Day. I was actually born on Mother's Day, so the years that it lands on that day are pretty cool. This year, my mom is in town for the first time in a long time, so I am eagerly anticipating getting to spend the weekend with some of the most amazing women in my life while also celebrating another year of me.

I hope you enjoy today's spotlight and excerpt from this Wholesome Contemporary Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Hometown Cop's Forever Family by Tara Randel, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Hometown Cop's Forever Family 
Series: A Golden, Georgia Romance #3 
Author: Tara Randel 
Publisher: Harlequin Heartwarming 
Release Date: April 28, 2026 
Genre: Wholesome Contemporary Romance

Solving crimes  

And falling in love! 

Charming, small-town Golden, Georgia, has everything Briana Connelly needs—her four-year-old daughter, her family, and her job as a police officer. When her former best friend, Jackson Walker, returns suddenly and is made her partner at work, she’s forced to face the events that drove them apart. With a mysterious theft to investigate, spending time with Jax is unavoidable…and easier than she’d like. Especially when his effortless warmth wins over her precious daughter. As a deeper connection grows between them, he starts to feel like a part of Briana’s little family. But if overcoming the past means admitting their true feelings—that might be the biggest risk of all.  

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.

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Book Review: A Child to Bind Them by Donna Gartshore

Happy Saturday Bookworms!

I hope you are having a wonderful weekend so far! I am busy getting my house packed up and cleaned. We're getting photos ready to be taken and are hoping to have the house listed in the next week so things are gearing up quickly. I have very little downtime, but when I do, I am reaching for a book like the one I am featuring today.

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Inspirational Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Child to Bind Them by Donna Gartshore, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Child to Bind Them 
Author: Donna Gartshore 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: April 28, 2026 
Genre: Inspirational Romance

Can one little girl… 
Heal wounds from the past? 

Landing a contractor job at New Hope Ranch finally allows Mitch Cooper to give his daughter, Gemma—who has a developmental delay—a stable home…if he can find reliable childcare. But when therapy horse trainer Aubrey Simpson eagerly offers to look after the three-year-old, Mitch finds himself hesitant to agree. Realizing Gemma is the baby she gave up for adoption, Aubrey will do anything to help the little girl—even spend time with her cautious father. But as unexpected feelings grow, will Aubrey reveal the truth…and risk her newfound family?

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Book Spotlight: His Ranch Redemption by Laurie Winter

Happy Wednesday Bookworms!

I have been dealing with some severe weather in my neck of the woods and when the weather gets bad I like to put on some of my favorite storm chasers and hole up with a good novel like the one I am featuring today. I hope you enjoy the spotlight and excerpt on this Sweet Contemporary Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for His Ranch Redemption by Laurie Winter, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: His Ranch Redemption 
Series: Fern Hollow #1 
Author: Laurie Winter 
Publisher: Harlequin Heartwarming 
Release Date: April 28, 2026 
Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

He was her first love… 
Can he be her forever? 

Widowed Sarah Carmella has a wonderful daughter and fulfilling work running her grandparents’ horse rescue. So there’s absolutely no reason for regrets and what-ifs when her ex-husband, Pete O’Keefe, arrives in town for a mutual friend’s wedding. She and Pete eloped young, then went their separate ways when tragedy struck. But memories of their whirlwind romance and Pete’s charm have Sarah fearing for her heart. Because Pete would never settle down in tiny Fern Hollow. Fresh out of the army, he already has another job chasing danger lined up. Yet, could falling for each other all over again become the adventure they both need?

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Book Review: The Girl Upstairs by Jessica R. Patch

Happy Monday Bookworms!

I have been anticipating this post for weeks and am so excited to finally share my thoughts on one of my favorite authors’ latest masterpieces that is releasing this week! I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Psychological Thriller and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Girl Upstairs by Jessica R. Patch, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Girl Upstairs 
Author: Jessica R. Patch 
Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired Trade 
Release Date: April 28, 2026 
Genre: Psychological Thriller

"Jessica R. Patch weaves a dark, twisty tapestry that’s both unsettling and unexpectedly hopeful. Masterful." –New York Times bestselling author Allison Brennan

She bought this house to save her marriage. Unearthing its secrets might just claim her life. 

Gwen McDaniel’s life is broken. But she knows the perfect place to fix it. Cold Harbor, Maine, an idyllic small town with views of Acadia National Park, is where she used to vacation with her parents as a child. Here, she and Steven can start over, renovating their cliff-side fixer-upper while patching up their marriage. Soon, everything will be better. 

Except from the moment they arrive, Gwen sees and hears things, and it’s more than just the drafts and shadows that are part of any old house. Steven downplays her fears, warning her not to fixate on problems as she has in the past. But Gwen spent years as a homicide detective, and her instincts don’t lie. Something happened here. Proof comes when she rips up the attic’s carpet to discover a chilling message carved into the wood underneath. 

As Gwen delves into the history of the house and the Cold Harbor community, she begins to piece the fragments together. And gradually, a terrifying picture emerges: A missing girl. A house of horrors. And a dark, decades-old nightmare that is more haunting than Gwen ever imagined…

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Book Spotlight: Escape to Passignano by Normandie Fischer

Hello Bookworms!

On Monday, I celebrated my 13th wedding anniversary with the love of my life. My husband is not the most romantic person in the world (though in the past, he has had his moments), but just slowing down for a day in this extremely busy season of getting our house ready to be put on the market was exactly what we both needed. It reminded me that he is still my best friend and my favorite person to be around, and I also got to dream of our future home as well as eat one of the best spinach chicken wraps I've ever tasted.

This week, I am keeping things light on the reading front and instead highlighting some amazing books complete with excerpts that I know you'll enjoy, starting with a Christian Women's Fiction. Don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours, and happy reading!

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Escape to Passignano by Normandie Fischer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Escape to Passignano 
Series: Carolina Coast Stories 
Author: Normandie Fischer 
Publisher: Sleepy Creek Press 
Release Date: March 31, 2026 
Genre: Christian Women's Fiction

Can dreams be trusted when life feels like a nightmare?

Sophia chose to honor her deceased husband’s wishes by visiting his hometown of Passignano sul Trasimeno in the Umbrian region of Italy. She’s trying to find the peace he promised, really she is, while she studies his language and sips caffè with a view of mountains and lake. Only, things begin to happen involving a red-haired child who speaks of things she cannot know—and the child’s father whose very presence challenges that peace. 

Dr. Luca Moretti still wrestles with guilt three years after the death of his wife and older children. Overwhelmed by grief, Luca gave the care of his toddler daughter, Noemi, to his sister. It was supposed to be temporary; it wasn’t. Now, Luca wants Noemi back. 

When his sister flees, taking Noemi into hiding, Sophia joins forces with a desperate Luca to piece together dreams and voices and supernatural nudges to retrace Noemi’s steps. It’s going to take trust, though, something in short supply for both Luca and Sophia. They’ll have to learn to trust in one another, and, more importantly, to trust in God—that a God who would allow such pain really does mean to work it all out for good. For Noemi. For the two of them. And for a troubled woman from North Carolina who enters their orbit with her own demons, demons God uses—and dispels—as He wills.  

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Book Review: The Hidden Key of Brooke Sumner by Susan L. Tuttle

Happy Wednesday Bookworms!

A novel that I have been anticipating for months is finally here and I am beyond excited that I get to share my thoughts with you today! This series has been one of my recent loves by one of my favorite authors so how can I not be excited!

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Romantic Mystery & Suspense and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for The Hidden Key of Brooke Sumner by Susan L. Tuttle, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Hidden Key of Brooke Sumner 

Series: Treasures of Halstead Manor #3 

Author: Susan L. Tuttle 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: March 24, 2026 

Genre: Mystery & Suspense / Romance 

Will the key unlock more than a vault filled with treasure? 

Brooke Sumner has been carefully avoiding Storm Whitlock ever since he betrayed her trust. When he joins Caspar's mysterious treasure-hunting group, she steps away to focus on her antique shop and keep herself busy.

Then Caspar invites her back for one final assignment, and Brooke is torn. Returning to Halstead Manor to help the team find the second half of a key is intriguing. It also means she'd be working with Storm. But she doesn't trust his motives, so she reluctantly rejoins to keep him in check. As they dive into their expedition, Brooke finds her heart softening toward those she'd once held at arm's length. And is it possible she misunderstood Storm's betrayal of their friendship? 

"In this friends-to-more romance, we get to see the beauty of being known, being loved, and finding the people who want to walk alongside us." —Toni Shiloh, Christy Award-winning author

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Book Review of 'Where the Wild Hearts Are' by Sondra Kraak

Happy Monday Bookworms!

I hope you are all doing well and had a good weekend. I was able to spend some quality time with the family and get a little bit of a rest, all of which was unexpected but much needed. 

Today I am kicking off the week with a sweet story. I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Sweet Small-Town Romantic Comedy and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Where the Wild Hearts Are by Sondra Kraak, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Where the Wild Hearts Are 
Series: Hearts of Sparrow Ridge #1 
Author: Sondra Kraak 
Publisher: Trail House Publishers 
Release Date: April 7, 2026 
Genre: Sweet Small-Town Romantic Comedy

Miles 

Second chances come in all shapes and sizes. Let’s be clear, I did not see this one coming in any shape or size. I was over Juliette as soon as she started dating my brother years ago. 

But here we are. I’ve lost my brother, Juliette’s lost her husband, and our short-lived summer camp romance from when we were teenagers is rising from the grave to haunt me—or rather, invite me into an unexpected, irresistible redemption opportunity. 

 
No problem. I’m a handyman. I fix things for a living. And I want to fix everything that’s been shattered in Juliette’s life. 

Unfortunately for me, I overwhelmed her years ago with my big personality. Who’s to say I won’t be too much again? But I hope and pray I’m not because there’s no holding my feelings back this time, and with the way she’s distracting me, using power tools is out of the question.  

Juliette 

I don’t need my brother-in-law, Miles, swooping in to save me and my girls. I may not be thriving as a single mom, but I am surviving. The last thing my life needs is more upheaval, which is what I’ll get if I misread this chemistry between me and Miles. 

Besides, my heart’s got a bigger issue: the summer camp that saved my life is for sale, and my old dream of running a camp is resurrecting with a vengeance. Only, it’s even less practical now than when I was a teenager. 

I can’t let my heart run away with my good sense—regarding Miles or camp. 

But I really want that camp, no matter how impossible the dream. And why am I acting like a schoolgirl crushing hard on her first boy? It’s just Miles.  

Wild hearts scheme big to buy a summer camp in this swoony, second chance romance with found family, quirky characters, and sizzling chemistry. And it’s all wrapped up in a low spice, inspirational package. Where the Wild Hearts Are is the first in a new rom-com series featuring adventurous friends and the love and laughter they bring to their small, mountain town.

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Spotlight on 'Ashton' by Anne Perrault

Hello Bookworms!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and a good start to the week. I spent the entire weekend getting my oldest son moved into his first apartment and spending time with family on Easter. It was a whirlwind of emotions and chaos, and I loved every moment. Now to start getting my own house to be put on the market. Don't even get me started on my feelings about that!

Today I am featuring another series starter! I hope you enjoy an excerpt from this Contemporary Western Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours. 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Ashton by Anne Perrault, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Ashton 
Series: Yellowstone Descendants #1 
Author: Anne Perreault 
Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: October 1, 2025 
Genre: Christian Fiction/Contemporary Western Romance

Return to Yellowstone with the next generation of our beloved characters from the original series.  

Saddlehorn, MT 

Ashton Anderson, former town sweetheart and prodigal son of rancher Clint Anderson, has finally returned home. Where has he been for the last ten years, you ask? Apparently, working a smaller rodeo circuit up north. With his strength and skill, he should have done well, but he has returned battered, bruised, and grieving the loss of his faithful gelding, Dusty. As for the girlfriend who turned down his marriage proposal all those years ago . . . 

Kelsey Winters has left her less-than-idyllic past behind. She now helps others as a therapist at the therapeutic riding center outside of town, although her own personal life seems to be a solid mess. She’s tried to be a good older sister to her brother, Darren, but she can’t protect him—or herself—from his poor choices. They’re one bad decision away from homelessness when they’re robbed and Darren is put in jail for possession of a controlled substance. 

Due to circumstances beyond their control, Kelsey and Ashton’s long-ago romance resurfaces. But will it leave the gate running, or suffer a colossal wreck?

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Book Review of 'The Ultimate Blindside' by Leslea Wahl

Happy Saturday Bookworms!

I hope everyone is having a blessed Easter weekend. When you're reading this I will be helping move my oldest son into his first apartment. Twenty one years ago I gave birth to him on Good Friday and twenty one years later I am releasing him into the world. Talk about going full circle and hitting a mom right in the feels! Not to mention me meditating on the meaning of this Easter weekend...all I can say is I am an emotional mess while my heart is also so full. Life really does life doesn't it?

The novel that I am featuring today was a great distraction for me as I entered this time of transition. I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this YA Adventure Mystery and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours. Have a safe and happy Easter weekend! He is risen indeed! ♥

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Ultimate Blindside by Leslea Wahl, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Ultimate Blindside 
Series: Blindside Series #3 
Author: Leslea Wahl 
Publisher: Perpetual Light Publishing 
Release Date: February 3, 2026 
Genre: YA Adventure/Mystery

Jake’s silver-medal life is movie-worthy. 

Sophie’s role is about to be sabotaged. 

Their sleepy Colorado town is overrun by a Hollywood film crew as the two teens, now high school seniors, find their private lives laid open for the world to see. Meanwhile, a mysterious woman and her daughter seek the couple’s help running from a powerful, dangerous man. In this tale of twists, whom can Sophie and Jake truly trust?  

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Book Review of 'The Rancher's Reckoning' by Victoria Bylin

Happy April Bookworms!

We are in the whirlwind of moving my oldest into his new apartment but I had to pop in to share my thoughts on a wonderful new Historical Romance! I hope you enjoy and let me know in the comments if you have any April Fools Day ideas. I would love to prank my son one last time before he's out of my house. ;)

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Rancher's Reckoning by Victoria Bylin, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Rancher's Reckoning
Series: Men of Midas #1
Author: Victoria Bylin 
Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: January 22, 2026 
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

A Time to Mourn . . . A Time to Love

Caleb Trent has endured more loss than a man should have to bear. Tragically widowed in a devastating hotel fire, he’s chosen to bury himself alive on a remote ranch in northern New Mexico. Never again will he risk loving anyone the way he loved his wife and family.

Married less than a month, Elsa Downey has sorrows of her own. Widowed, penniless and pregnant, she’s being chased by the heartless outlaw who murdered her husband. When a blizzard strands her at Caleb Trent’s ranch, she’s forced to take refuge despite his surly attitude. Yet behind the sneer, she sees another side of Caleb—the kind and caring man he once was.

Having a woman under his roof is Caleb’s second worst nightmare. The first is falling in love with her. It’s up to him to protect Elsa Downey from all harm. And it’s up to Elsa to bring light and love into Caleb’s dark world.

Vibe: Poignant. Emotional. Tugs at the heart.
Themes: Courage. Second chances. Letting go of the past.
Fun elements: Bacon. Clouds shaped like bunny rabbits. Sweet kisses.

0

Book Review of 'Special Target' by Jerusha Agen

Happy Monday Bookworms!

This weekend was an absolute whirlwind and had several surprises that are amazing, unexpected, and having me feeling all the feels. Not only did my oldest turn 21 last week but he also found his own place and will be moving this next week! How is this possible?!! So much change and more in the foreseeable future as we will be listing our house to sell in a few weeks and our new house is breaking ground tomorrow! I knew 2026 was going to have some pretty big milestones but I did not expect this trajectory. That's life, huh?

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Christian Suspense Thriller and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Special Target by Jerusha Agen, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Special Target 
Author: Jerusha Agen 
Publisher: ‎ SDG Words, LLC 
Release Date: March 26, 2026 
Genre: Christian Suspense Thriller

She’s trying to save the boy’s life. What if he’s supposed to save hers? 

For tough-as-nails Chicago social worker Ashley Sorenson, it’s nothing new to risk her life for hurting children. Seeing innocent kids suffer every day may have made her a little cynical, but she’ll stop at nothing to rescue children from miserable circumstances. 

But Ashley faces a special challenge when Matthew Borden, a sixteen-year-old with Down syndrome, is orphaned. Finding a suitable foster home for the boy becomes the least of her problems when someone starts threatening her and Matthew. 

The sudden appearance of a mysterious FBI agent confirms Ashley’s growing suspicions that Matthew is no ordinary teen. The boy she thought no one wanted is wanted by many…dead or alive. 

Dodging danger at every turn, Ashley races to find the secrets that could save Matthew’s life. When the truth unearths her own dark past and threatens more than their lives, the God Matthew trusts may be her only hope for rescue.  

A gripping and gritty standalone Christian suspense thriller from the bestselling author of the Guardians Unleashed Series.  

7

Spotlight on 'Sung in the Shadows' by Crystal Caudill

Hello Bookworms!

Yesterday we celebrated my oldest turning 21, and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't in my feels about it all. I still can't wrap my head around the fact that I have an adult son or the fact that he's only a few months away from moving away from me! It's a lot, but that's what I love about being a bookworm and the book community in general. Not only do I have support, but I also can mentally escape when needed. I am so thankful that you've stopped by today and listened to the ramblings of an emotional mama.♡ 

I hope you enjoy the spotlight and excerpt from a new Historical Romance from a beloved series and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post to continue the blog hop and enter the amazing giveaway for The Art of Love & Danger! 

Welcome to the Blog Hop for Sung in the Shadows by Crystal Caudill for The Art of Love & Danger series!

About the Book

Title: Sung in the Shadows 
Series: The Art of Love & Danger #2 
Author: Crystal Caudill 
Publisher: Kregel Publications 
Release Date: March 17, 2026 
Genre: Biblical Fiction

When past darkness prowls, will stepping into the light lead to a brighter future?

In nineteenth-century Cincinnati, fear keeps Nora Davis caged with secrets and lies. Her true identity as the daughter of a famous opera singer is too dangerous to reveal with her former captors still on the loose. But weekly singing lessons at Longview Asylum—her paranoid mother's permanent residence—light a flame in Nora, and it's one she can avoid fanning for only so long.
 
With his suicidal ma in the asylum, Ezekiel Beaumont's soul is weary, but Nora's presence at the asylum intrigues him. As a Pike's Opera House employee, Ezekiel thinks Nora might be cut out for the stage. He also begins to wonder if Nora's ma is really the famed Constanza Brisbane, who went missing mid-performance. He's determined to find out.
 
Though Ezekiel brings the performance world a little too close for comfort, Nora is drawn to his warm personality all the same. The two of them steadily grow closer, but then Nora begins to fear she's being watched, and her own paranoia blooms.
 
As the line between what's real and false grows fainter, will Ezekiel's and Nora's faith and love overcome?

0

Book Review of 'Through Smoke and Secrets' by Rebecca Hemlock

Happy Tuesday Bookworms!

Historical mysteries have to be one of my all-time favorite genres, and when I find a new author in this category, I get very excited. Not only is the novel that I'm featuring today a new-to-me author, but it's also a series starter, which I also love!

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Mystery Suspense and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Through Smoke and Secrets by Rebecca Hemlock, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Through Smoke and Secrets 
Series: Dangerous Heirlooms #1 
Author: Rebecca Hemlock 
Publisher: Independently published 
Release Date: January 21, 2026
Genre: Mystery Suspense

A century-old secret. A relentless enemy. One Locket that was never meant to be found. 

When antiques dealer Annie Whitaker buys an unremarkable locket at a routine estate sale, she expects nothing more than a quiet ride home through the Smoky Mountains. Instead, a shadowy vehicle sends her car skidding off a cliffside road—and she realizes the attack was no accident. Hidden inside the locket is a key, a cryptic letter, and the first thread of a mystery tied to the disappearance of Eleanor Blackwood, a woman who vanished over a hundred years ago. 

Someone has killed to keep that secret buried. 

And now they’ve set their sights on Annie. 

Her shop is ransacked. Her inventory destroyed. Her building intentionally set ablaze. With no phone, no transportation, and nowhere safe to go, Annie is forced to seek refuge in the only place left: the remote mountain ranch of Detective Jack Calloway, a man who once shared her obsession with cold cases—and who may be the only person she can trust. 

As Jack digs into the evidence Annie uncovered, the danger spirals. Break-ins, threats, shadows stalking the ranch at night—each clue reveals a darker truth. The locket isn’t just a forgotten keepsake; it’s the final piece in a long-buried murder. And someone with power, reach, and generations of secrets will do whatever it takes to silence the truth forever. 

With Annie marked as the next victim, Jack races to unravel a century of lies before time runs out. Every revelation tightens the noose around them both—and with Annie constantly in his line of fire, Jack’s focus fractures between the case and the woman he’s never been able to forget. The closer they come to exposing the killer, the more Jack realizes he may lose her long before the truth sees daylight. And every step forward draws them toward a final, deadly confrontation neither of them may survive. 

9

Book Review of 'Listen for the Chickadees' by Terri Wangard

Happy Thursday Bookworms!

My love of historical fiction draws me almost daily, and lately I've been all over the eras, but one place I haven't visited in a bit was WWII, so I picked up a novel by another author that is new to me and dove right in. 

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Christian Historical Fiction and let me know in the comments if you have any recommendations in this genre for me. I'm always on the hunt for my next read.♥

Welcome to the Reviewer Tour for Listen for the Chickadees by Terri Wangard, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Listen for the Chickadees 
Series: Unsung Stories of World War II #3 
Author: Terri Wangard
Publisher: Scrivenings Press LLC 
Release Date: March 10, 2026
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

She’s loved him forever.
He’s never seen her as more than a memory from home.
Then Pearl Harbor changed everything.

December 7, 1941, shattered the illusion that anyone is safe.

Navy nurse Gloria Bloch wakes to the thunder of enemy planes over Pearl Harbor, certain of only one thing: John Walsh, the boy she has loved since childhood, is far from danger aboard an aircraft carrier. Or so she believes.

When panicked American gunfire brings John down over the harbor, their reunion is brief and breathtaking, forged in chaos neither can escape.

As the Second World War drives the United States into the Pacific conflict, Gloria and John are swept onto separate paths of duty. Gloria serves aboard the hospital ship USS Serenity, tending shattered bodies and wounded souls. John flies combat missions as a Navy fighter pilot and combat photographer, risking everything to document a war that refuses to leave him untouched.

Their paths cross again and again in fleeting moments between air raids and surgeries, courage and fear, longing and loss. With every meeting, the feelings they have buried deepen. But war demands more than love. It demands sacrifice, tests faith, and steals time without warning.

When separation stretches into silence, Gloria must face the terrifying possibility that hope itself has become another casualty of war.

As war and distance threaten to pull them apart, only the smallest signs remain: a whistle, a painted bird, and a promise worth holding onto.

Listen for the Chickadees is a Christian World War II historical romance set against the backdrop of Pearl Harbor, the U.S. Navy, and the Pacific War. It is a story of steadfast love, quiet faith, and the courage it takes to trust God when tomorrow is uncertain.

Perfect for readers who enjoy WWII historical fiction, Christian wartime love stories, and emotionally rich fiction set in America and the Pacific theater.

0

Spotlight on 'Anna of Bethsaida' by Susanne Blumer

Happy St. Patrick's Day Bookworms!

Fun fact about yours truly: I found out a few months ago that I have quite a bit of Irish blood in me! Needless to say, this St. Patrick's Day feels a little more special.🍀 I don't really "celebrate" but I also don't like getting pinched either so...💚 Consider this your reminder to make sure you're wearing green! 

I am so thankful that you've stopped by today and I hope you enjoy the spotlight and excerpt from a new Biblical Fiction that has been released today! Also, don't forget to scroll down to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Anna of Bethsaida by Susanne Blumer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Anna of Bethsaida 
Series: The Arimathea Chronicles #2 
Author: Susanne Blumer 
Publisher: Sutton Avenue Press 
Release Date: March 16, 2026 
Genre: Biblical Fiction

Anna believed choosing Andrew meant gaining a home. Instead, she finds herself on the dusty roads of Galilee, under the watchful eyes of hostile Pharisees, walking ever closer to miracles that both heal and unsettle. 

As a healer traveling with Jesus's ministry alongside Andrew, Anna takes her place among the women who follow, forming bonds that offer strength as the journey grows harder. While crowds press close to hear the Teacher's words, a different kind of attention gathers. In Jerusalem, her father Joseph of Arimathea, walks an impossible line within the Sanhedrin, and with each miracle Jesus performs, the net draws tighter around them all. 

The cost of discipleship, Anna discovers, is not counted in miles walked or comforts surrendered. It is measured in the space between what she hoped following Jesus would be and what it actually demands. 

Some journeys test what you believe. 

Some reshape who you become. 

Anna's does both. 

This is Book 2 of The Arimathea Chronicles. Begin Anna's journey from the beginning with Book 1, Anna of Arimathea, where a scarred, isolated young woman discovers healing, first love, and purpose in the footsteps of Jesus.  

Anna of Bethsaida is perfect for readers who love:

• Deeply researched biblical fiction with authentic period detail
• The untold stories of women in the early church - Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and the community that sustained Jesus's ministry
• Love stories tested by faith and dangerous callings
• Political intrigue woven through spiritual transformation
• Character-driven narratives where personal loss intersects with world-changing events

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Book Review of 'When They Met Again' by Leslie Gould

Happy Monday Bookworms!

I don’t know about your neck of the woods, but the majority of the US is experiencing weather whiplash, and I have been deep in it. From tornados, blizzards, and the craziest wind and cold/heat ratios as far as temperature variations, I have been glued to my computer studying it all. I hope everyone is staying safe!

When my eyes are not on the weather, they are glued to a novel to escape for a moment and getting my eyes focused on something less overwhelming. I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Contemporary Amish Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for When They Met Again by Leslie Gould, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: When They Met Again 
Series: Letters from Lancaster County 
Author: Leslie Gould 
Publisher: Bethany House 
Release Date: March 17, 2026 
Genre: Fiction / Romance / Amish / Contemporary

A gently humorous just friends romance from Leslie Gould, threaded with heart-deep characters and the timeless traditions of simple Amish life. 

It's love at first sight for Adam Slaybaugh, yet while Joanna Grebel finds him attractive and is intrigued when he declares his interest, she's less certain of the potential for a romantic future together. Instead, she proposes they be "just friends," but Adam's not willing to settle for anything less than a romantic relationship. In response, he leaves Lancaster County for Florida, and soon after, Joanna begins courting Jacob Byer--someone she deems a much more suitable match. 

When Adam returns to Lancaster County years later to pursue a career in his grandparents' successful home renovation business, he finds Joanna suffering from a broken heart. Misunderstandings and matchmaking schemes begin a tender journey of healing and romance--but is Adam's love enough to finally win Joanna over?  

For readers of Beverly Lewis, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Shelley Shepard Gray, a sweet Amish romance with matchmaking grandmas and themes of enemies to lovers, he falls first, and love at first sight versus "just friends."  

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Book Review of 'Eyewitness Sketch' by Danielle Grandinetti

Hello Bookworms!

I hope you all are doing well today. Pollen is high right now and my allergies are insane so I'm going to keep this intro short and sweet so you can get to the good stuff. ;)

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this 1930s Historical Romantic Mystery and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Eyewitness Sketch by Danielle Grandinetti, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Eyewitness Sketch 
Series: Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency #1 
Author: Danielle Grandinetti 
Publisher: Hearth Spot Press 
Release Date: March 10, 2026 
Genre: 1930s Historical Romantic Mystery

Finding love at Death’s Door might destroy them both. 

CHICAGO, Ill., 1931—Gabriella Salatino, an illustrative journalist for the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency, never planned to return to her island home at the tip of Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula. Nor did she plan to witness a murder. But when her life is threatened, she has no choice but to hide out under the protective care of the man she left behind. 

Deputy Andri Jóhannsson has been coming to Gabby’s rescue his entire life, but having her in his secluded home tests the limits of his patience. The woman has no sense of self-preservation, and he has a smuggling ring to ferret out. Except, her skill with sketchpad and pencils might be the very investigative tool he needs in order to catch the bootleggers. 

With a murderer on her trail and criminals evading detection, Gabriella and Andri must set aside the past or risk its eruption. Because this time, the collateral damage might include more than losing their friendship. It might cost them the lives of those they love. 

La Verità con Integrità. Truth with Integrity. The Legacy of a (Girl) Stunt Reporter.

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Book Review of 'Verse by Verse (Volume 1)' by Benjamin McGreevy

Happy Monday Bookworms!

How is everyone doing today? Did you have a good weekend? My weekends for the foreseeable future are going to be full of packing and working on getting our house ready to list for sale. We are hoping to have it on the market by the end of the month, so time is of the essence, and life is about to get really interesting. I hope everyone is enjoying this active start to the spring season and staying safe.

Today I am featuring a book that is going to be an invaluable resource for many so I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Christian Nonfiction Devotional and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Verse by Verse (Volume 1) by Benjamin McGreevy, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Verse by Verse: A Daily Devotional Through the Whole Bible — Volume 1: Genesis 1–11 — Where the Story Begins 

Series: Verse by Verse: A Daily Devotional Through the Whole Bible #1 
Author: Benjamin McGreevy Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: January 13, 2026 
Genre: Christian Nonfiction Devotional

Could one devotional lead you through the entire Bible? 

If you’ve ever longed to journey through the entire Bible with fresh eyes and a deeper heart, A Daily Devotional Through the Whole Bible will be your guide. 

Written with reverence, clarity, and insight, Benjamin McGreevy takes readers verse by verse through Scripture, beginning in Genesis, to uncover the richness, order, and divine purpose woven into every line of God’s Word. 

Far more than a commentary, this devotional invites personal reflection and meditation, helping believers not only read the Bible but truly live it. 

Each passage comes with thoughtful reflections that reveal God’s wisdom, creative design, and constant presence, from the first verse of Genesis to the final revelation of His glory. 

Designed for both study and spiritual growth, this book is a companion for anyone desiring to deepen their relationship with God through daily engagement with Scripture. 

Whether you’re a pastor, student, or lifelong believer seeking renewal, this devotional will guide you to see that every word and verse holds eternal meaning. 

A Daily Devotional Through the Whole Bible is not just a book to read; it is a journey to experience the living Word of God in all its truth and power. 

 
Begin your journey through the Bible verse by verse!  

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Spotlight on 'Love & Baseball' by Jaime Jo Wright & 'The Cinderella Plot' by Pepper Basham

Happy Thursday Bookworms!

Today is a great day because I am shining a spotlight on TWO amazing Young Adult Romantic Comedies!

I hope you enjoy the excerpts from both of these novels and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Love & Baseball by Jaime Jo Wright (with Chloe Joanne) AND The Cinderella Plot by Pepper Basham, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About Love & Baseball

Title: Love and Baseball 
Author: Jaime Jo Wright with Chloe JoAnne 
Publisher: MadLit Publishing 
Release Date: February 10, 2026 
Genre: Young Adult Romantic Comedy

She needed a boyfriend. AI came to her rescue. But then her fake boyfriend showed up at school. 

Brielle has never wanted a boyfriend. She's happy with her book boyfriends--purely fictional, right? Easy to maintain. She's also not a huge fan of sports, except baseball. Not playing it. No. Again, books and cozy afternoons are her thing. But Brielle can get into baseball with the best of them when it comes to watching, repeating stats, and wearing her favorite jerseys. But apparently, that's not enough in life. At least according to her four nosy aunts, who all think she needs a boyfriend, people at school who are convinced Brielle is a closet serial killer because she's happier with her books, and yeah. Valentine’s Day is on the calendar. 

There is a purpose for AI, and Brielle decides the genius thing to do is make a fake boyfriend. Complete with deepfake photos, Brielle creates the perfect boyfriend, and no one needs to know he's entirely fictional. They just need to believe she met him over summer vacation, and he lives somewhere in North Carolina. Only he doesn't. When baseball catcher, Brooks Mason shows up at high school, a lookalike to Brielle's AI boyfriend, her entire world becomes a dog-eared, bent pages book nightmare. 

Brooks is getting sick of all the girls at school wanting to date him. He wants to play ball and hang out. So, yeah. It makes sense to help Brielle out. Fake date? Why not? But once together, dating for show becomes an act that both Brielle and Brooks aren't quite prepared for, and dealing with unexpected attraction, complicated situations, and interfering aunts and bffs?  

It's a grand slam of problems just waiting to happen, plus a game-changing shot at a championship home run at love.  

** CLEAN YA Rom-Com Fiction you can read without skipping a page **

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Book Review of 'A Texas Easter Blessing' by Mindy Obenhaus

Hello Bookworms!

Spring is here and with that comes severe weather here in Texas. I have struggled with storm anxiety my entire life and to keep my mind off of the hail and tornado threat that's headed our way this week I have been doing a lot of praying and a lot of reading. One of my favorite fictions to read are set in my home state like the novel I am featuring today.

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Inspirational Contemporary Christian Romance, stay safe no matter the weather, and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Texas Easter Blessing by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Texas Easter Blessing 

Series: Legacy Ranch #3 

Author: Mindy Obenhaus 

Publisher: Love Inspired Books 

Release Date: February 24, 2026 

Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Christian Romance 

A new ranch home 

could lead to a new family. 

After his marriage fails, single father Ryder Sinclair returns to his hometown with his young son to care for his ailing mother. He’s surprised to run into his teenage crush, Kendall Hunt, whose career as a professional chef has been shaken by scandal. As the two work together to save an Easter event usually hosted by Ryder’s mother, Kendall finds herself longing for this sense of family with Ryder and little Shepard. But when she has a chance to go back to the life she once knew, will she choose the dream she’s spent years chasing…or the new dream that has taken hold of her heart?

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Book Review of 'Whiteout' by Dani Pettrey & Lynette Eason

Happy Tuesday Bookworms!

I have been in a suspense mood lately, and lucky for me, there is a plethora of great stories in this genre that have recently been released. Today, I am shining a spotlight on one of them that has not one but two stories.

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Romantic Suspense Novella Collection and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Whiteout by Dani Pettrey & Lynette Eason, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Whiteout 
Author: Lynette Eason and Dani Pettrey 
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 
Release Date: February 3, 2026 
Genre: Romantic Suspense Novella Collection

Brace yourself for double the suspense in these snowbound adventures as an avalanche forces two couples to face down their enemies in a ski resort shut off from the outside world. 

In Buried in Shadows by Dani Pettrey, Cassandra Parker arrives at her best friend's destination wedding, praying her stalker hasn't tracked her to Colorado. Also part of the wedding party is Sheriff Joel Brunswick, the man she stunned by leaving at the altar to hide a dangerous truth. When an avalanche strands their ski group in an abandoned lodge, it becomes chillingly clear that Cassandra's stalker has followed her . . . and he's willing to kill to make her his. 

In Snowbound Secrets by Lynette Eason, Dr. Maya Sullivan fully intends to escape her past and finish planning a retreat for military veterans at the ranch she's inherited. Unfortunately, her plans go sideways when an avalanche traps her in a Colorado ski resort. An unexpected reunion with her high school crush forces her to confront past wounds, but she soon realizes someone is targeting her, and their search for a shadowy enemy becomes a matter of life and death.  

A gripping romantic suspense novella collection from bestselling authors Lynette Eason and Dani Pettrey featuring second-chance romance, trapped together forced proximity, military and law enforcement heroes, a small-town destination wedding, and snowbound survival at a Colorado ski resort.  

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Book Review of 'Tracing a Kidnapper's Trail' by Katy Lee

Happy Saturday Bookworms!

It's been awhile since I've popped in on the weekend but I couldn't wait to share my thoughts on the latest book I've devoured. This novel was just released this week and is the perfect weekend read.

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Inspirational Romantic Suspense and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Tracing a Kidnapper's Trail by Katy Lee, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Tracing a Kidnapper's Trail 
Series: K-9 Search and Rescue #18 
Author: Katy Lee 
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense 
Release Date: February 24, 2026 
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Solving an abduction case  

means a relentless K-9 manhunt… 

When search and rescue worker Hunter Shelton and his bloodhound Libby are called to a crime scene, he discovers his ex-fiancée murdered and her young daughter missing—and he's attacked. Soon, he realizes the little girl may have been taken by drug runners, and could possibly be his own child. With no one else to turn to, Hunter teams up with DEA Agent Marlee Price and her narcotics K-9, despite their rocky history. As they face escalating threats and uncover a rising body count, an old enemy from Marlee's past resurfaces. Will they be able to rescue the child and bring dangerous criminals to justice before time runs out? 

 
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.  

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Spotlight on 'A Rancher for Easter' by Susanne Dietze

Happy Thursday Bookworms!

I am taking a quick break from packing and decluttering to highlight another Love Inspired novel that continues the wonderful Home to Foxtail series. 

I hope you enjoy this spotlight and excerpt for this Contemporary Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Rancher for Easter by Susanne Dietze, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Rancher for Easter 

Series: Home to Foxtail #3 

Author: Susanne Dietze 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: February 24, 2026 

Genre: Contemporary Romance

An inheritance with strings attached…

Forces him to tie the knot. 

Rancher Thatcher Dalton accidentally triggers a marriage requirement to his inheritance and now must find a wife in six months…or lose his farm. When widowed bookkeeper Bliss Anderson suddenly finds herself without a job, she knows that the adoption of her foster daughter, who has epilepsy, will be in jeopardy—unless she accepts Thatcher’s proposal of a marriage of convenience. As the platonic couple settle into married life and parenthood, they soon find that remaining just friends is harder than expected. But when a long-held family secret threatens their growing happiness, it’ll take a little girl’s Easter wish to turn them into a real family… 

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Book Review of 'SEAL of Honor' by Jessica Ashley

Hello Bookworms!

I hope you are all doing very well! I feel so blessed to be enjoying some amazing weather and my heart and prayers go out to all of those that are dealing with this unbelievable winter weather. I hope everyone is staying safe and warm!

Today I am featuring another series starter that is so good!! I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Christian Romantic Suspense and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for SEAL of Honor by Jessica Ashley, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: SEAL of Honor 
Series: Iron Tide Brotherhood #1 
Author: Jessica Ashley 
Publisher: B.A.D. Publishing, LLC 
Release Date: February 23, 2026 
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

She vanished on their wedding day. Now she’s back… and someone wants her dead. 

Zane Knox is a man who doesn’t officially exist. 

The former Navy SEAL has spent years living in the shadows, forced into off-the-books missions for a government agency that owns his secrets—and his freedom. He’s learned the hard way that love is a liability and trust gets you killed. 

Until the woman who broke his heart stumbles onto his boat in the middle of the night. 

Bruised. Terrified. And begging for medical supplies. 

Tessa Lane doesn’t know who’s hunting her or why. She only knows that nowhere is safe and that every place she runs to turns into another crime scene. The faith she once clung to is gone. So is her belief in love… and the vows she nearly made to Zane. 

But when the danger closes in and her past catches up to her, Zane becomes the only safe place she has left. 

Protecting Tessa was never part of his mission. 

But losing her might destroy what little is left of him. 

As a relentless enemy hunts them through the coastal shadows, Zane and Tessa must confront the secrets that tore them apart—and the faith, love, and redemption that might be the only things that can save them now. 

Because this time, walking away isn’t an option.  

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