Author: Babbling Becky L

I am a first and foremost a follower of Jesus Christ. Having formerly taught elementary school, I am now a retired special education para-pro. I miss our amazing students! I am married with three great young adult children, one married in South Carolina. My husband and I are empty-nesters but share our home with a huge tiger cat and a playful Shih-Tzu, plus often the granddog. More time for my fave past-time now-reading!😊
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Shiloh by Jennifer Lynn Cary Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Shilo: A Sweet, Quirky, Romantic Muddle (The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue: Book 7)

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Genre: Sweet Romantic Comedy

Release Date: May 1, 2025

From Breck Girl to Hippie to Jesus People…

…It’s been a long journey back home

But can her heart truly find peace where it all began?

When free-spirit Shilo Anderson inherits two million dollars with an unexpected condition—marriage—she refuses to be bound by her grandfather’s will. Until her beloved aunt faces cancer with no insurance to cover chemotherapy.

She won’t marry for money for herself, but to save her aunt’s life? She’ll make that sacrifice in a heartbeat.

Maybe.

Jesse Franklin never forgot his first love. When her grandfather’s will brings Shilo back to their hometown, he discovers his love for her has only deepened with time. Offering to marry her to help save her aunt, no problem.

Keeping it a marriage of convenience, that might be a problem. More like impossible.

As their feelings grow stronger, Shilo faces her greatest fear: revealing the truth about her past decade. Can she make Jesse see she doesn’t belong on anyone’s pedestal?

Return to 1973 Kokomo, Indiana, where faith shapes the journey and the legend of the cardinal in the sycamore still proves true love endures all seasons.

You will enjoy this sweet, quirky tale of second chances, because sometimes the rough patches prepare us for the wildly wonderful.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Historical Christian Romance author and three-time Selah Award nominee, Jennifer Lynn Cary, likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty-plus years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small-town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series, The Relentless series, and The Weather Girls trilogy, as well as the stand-alone novel, Cheryl’s Going Home, her novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café, and her split-time novels The Traveling Prayer Shawland The Forgotten Gratitude Journal. Her current spin-off series, The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue, contains standalones with a common thread.

More from Jennifer

The story for Shilo has been fermenting in my brain for a long time. I had always loved Neil Diamond’s song of the same title and could see his characters playing out their parts and thought what would happen if the girl came back after ten years?

However, what I didn’t catch was that Shilo in the song was a boy, an imaginary boy who’d been a friend to a lonely boy.

In my brain, I missed the importance of him turning to his only friend in his mind.

Instead, I had a little girl moving in next door—she was Shilo—and they went from being friends to first loves, but something called her away and though he understood, he called her name like before hoping she’d return.

Okay, so not what Neil Diamond had in mind, but it became Jesse’s back story.

Then I had to ask, what was so important that she had to leave? That’s when I remembered Breck Girls. Do you remember them?

There was a time as a child that I thought one of the Breck Girls on the back of a magazine was so beautiful, I said, “She’s prettier than Mom.”

I was quickly (verbally) chastised by my dad who made sure to inform me that no one was prettier than my mom. I never thought of it as an insult. My mom was the high standard for beauty, and for someone to be even prettier, they were definitely a looker. However, I learned to keep those types of opinions to myself if my Dad was around. Mom understood and didn’t take offense—in fact, as I meant it, she thought it was a compliment that I found her so pretty.

All that to say that Breck Girls were a part of my growing up years, into the seventies. I wondered how Breck Girls were chosen, and if Shilo could/should be one. I learned there’s even an exhibit at the Smithsonian dedicated to Breck Girls and those lovely pastel portraits.

So, when (my) Shilo told Jesse she had to go before he could tell her that he loved her, it was because she’d been chosen to be a Breck Girl. Now I had a framework to start building the story.

I hope that when you read Shilo: A Sweet, Quirky, Romantic Muddle, you will be transported back to 1973 with many of your own memories.

Abundant blessings,

Jenny

My Impressions

“A legend’s been handed down for many generations, some believe all the way from the Native American days, concerning the sycamore tree in our backyard and a cardinal. They say if a couple kisses beneath its branches, and a cardinal lights above them, then theirs is a true love destined for a long and happy marriage.”

Kokomo, here we come again! Shiloh by Jennifer Lynn Cary is the 7th book in the loosely connected series, The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue series. This series is a hoot! After this many books, how Cary keeps coming up with fresh 70s references that delight me and cause me to remember things like Kreske’s, is beyond me. The many time-related references kept me eagerly reading the story, just as the storyline did. 

Two former childhood friends, Shilo and Jesse, separated by 10 years of silence, are suddenly thrust back together by a will. Shiloh has returned to small-town Kokomo from California, to find her former dear friend much more serious, competitive, and spineless than ever. On the outside, Jesse is doing well, a successful lawyer at his grandfather’s firm. However, Jesse’s biggest fault may be that he no longer ventures out like when he followed adventurous Shilo, but rather kowtows to his totally overbearing, demanding grandfather. 

Shilo is everything that Jesse remembers. Beautiful, compassionate, and unafraid. Except… she now has joined the Jesus people and has a real relationship with Him, living her life differently because of her beliefs. 

Shiloh’s compassion leads to a marriage of convenience. While this marriage has benefits for both, both hold secrets that could destroy any renewed relationship Shilo and Jesse are attempting. As Shilo worries and informs Jesse, “‘if you put me on a pedestal, I’m going to disappoint you…you have to see me as I really am.’ ‘And what’s that?’ ‘A messed-up chick who God chased down and dragged out of a never-ending spiral.’”

This is one of those stories when I wanted to shout at the characters, “Communicate!” But how many times do doubts or fears of what others might think of us hold us back from saying things we know need to be said? These two are blessed to have forces like Aunt Sarah (“Just talk to each other. Always. It’ll make the difference, or at least be one thing that will.” ) and Viv in their lives. Maybe less blessed to have Grandfather and Eli! 

One quote that I loved, because it illustrates how quickly Shilo turns her problems to God. “‘What haven’t you told me, Jesse? Something I should know?’ Dread tasted like bile in her throat. Oh, she needed to get somewhere where she could pray and talk with Jesus.” THIS!! Because Shiloh’s first panic reaction is prayer!! How many times do we first attempt to reason things out, complain, discuss them with others, then finally turn to prayer as a last resort?

A sweet little 5-year-old recovering in the hospital is my third choice after Aunt Sarah and Viv for fave secondary characters. 

Next up in the series is Bernadette, which I am more than eager to read. These Kokomo 70s faith-filled romances are quite addicting!!

I received a copy of the novel from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy of the book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

Notable Quotables:

“Their marriage wouldn’t be genuine until he saw her, the imperfect but redeemed ragamuffin, now a daughter of the King.” -(Shilo)

“Believing something doesn’t make it true. It’s true whether anyone believes it or not. Nothing changes the truth.” – Shilo

“God remained here with her. Even if Jesse let go of her hand, He never would.”

– (Shilo)

    “And when one gives up their backbone at an early age to please the one in power, it’s mighty difficult to grow another.” – (Jesse)

    My Rating

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Magnificent! These characters are becoming so real with each successive book, you may find me searching Kokomo on my next visit for the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue!

    Blog Stops

    Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 15

    The Important Things in Life: God, Books, & Chocolate , November 15

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 16

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 17

    A Reader’s Brain, November 18 (Author Interview)

    Texas Book-aholic, November 19

    A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 20 (Author Interview)

    For Him and My Family, November 21

    Books Less Travelled, November 22 (Author Interview)

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 23

    Mary Hake, November 24

    The Mommies Reviews, November 24

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 25

    Roads to Everywhere, November 26

    Fiction Book Lover, November 27 (Author Interview)

    Pause for Tales, November 28

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and an eBook copy of the book!!

    Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

    https://promosimple.com/ps/3d5a5/shilo-celebration-tour-giveaway
    ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

    Maggie and the Maverick by Erica Vetsch Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Maggie and the Maverick

    Author: Erica Vetsch

    Genre: Christian Historical  Romance

    Release Date: October 13, 2025

    A jaded lady marshal and a stage driver with a past—bound by duty, tested by lies, and drawn to a love that could change everything.

    A wary lady marshal and a reformed stage driver—entangled by secrets, shadowed by danger, and tempted by a love neither dared to trust.

    U.S. Marshal Maggie Davis has learned the hard way not to trust men with charming smiles and winning ways. Her reticence makes her the perfect undercover investigator for a string of daring stage robberies. When the case leads her to stay with a local family, she finds herself drawn to Cal McConnell, the handsome stage driver who could either be her greatest ally or her prime suspect.

    Cal has worked hard to put his wild past behind him and build an honest life as a stage driver. When a mysterious new lady comes to town selling ladies’ garments, he’s instantly captivated by her beauty and fierce independence. But as stage robberies escalate and murder enters the picture, Cal must decide if he can trust this woman who seems determined to keep him at arm’s length—even as his heart tells him she could be the one.

    When the line between truth and deception blurs, will they cling to caution—or risk everything for something real?

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Best-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetschloves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum.

    More from Erica

    Did you ever watch the movie Stagecoach? The movie that launched John Wayne’s career? My father introduced me to the movie when I was young, and that sparked my interest in westward expansion, cowboys, and stagecoaches.

    When I was a teen, I read a book called Six Horse Hitch, by author Janice Holt Giles. In the book, she goes into all the details of stagecoach driving, stations across the west, the coaches, the passengers, the US mail delivery, and more. I was enthralled.

    Stagecoach drivers (sometimes called Jehus) were a breed apart. Brave, resilient, and bold. Heroic.

    Which meant, when I became an author, I wanted to create a hero who was a stagecoach driver. Enter Cal McConnell in Maggie and the Maverick. He’s the third of three sons, with a dry humor, and a bit of a jaded outlook on life.

    Truthfully, I patterned him after Heath Barkley, a character on the 1960’s TV show, The Big Valley, played by Lee Majors. Even down to the light brown/dark blond hair and blue eyes.

    One thing that is important when writing romance is to ensure that the heroine is worthy of the hero and vice versa. So I imagined what kind of a woman would be a great life partner for Cal. She would have to be spunky, smart, and compassionate.

    Maggie Davis, an undercover agent, fit the bill. Her guise was that of a ladies’ unmentionables saleswoman, and that job leads to a memorable encounter upon meeting Cal for the first time.

    I’m so thankful that Maggie and the Maverick is getting a new release out into the world through Wild Heart Books. I hope that you enjoy this rollicking western with a stage driving hero and undercover agent heroine.

    My Impressions

    “Agents who worked secretly for the U. S. Marshal’s office couldn’t afford to let anyone that close. Which made Maggie the perfect candidate for this type work. She didn’t trust anyone anyway.”

    Erica Vetsch has re-released her series The Brides of Money Creek, as part of The Brides of the West series with Wild Heart Books. Maggie and the Maverick is the third book in the Brides of Money Creek sub-series. 

    A historical romantic fiction novel set in the Old West, Maggie and the Maverick has a bit of an unusual premise. The stage has been robbed multiple times near Silver Creek, and US Marshalls are secretly sent in to discover who the thieves are. One undercover Marshall is Maggie Davis, who is to ride the stage back and forth, posing as a salesperson for ladies’ unmentionables. A very amusing incident occurs as Maggie meets our hero, stage driver Cal McConnell for the first time. 

    Both Maggie and Cal have had very hard knocks in life that have caused them to be slow to trust. As Cal realizes, “Trust is built up slow.” If only he knew just how slow!

    While both try to guard their hearts, what will happen when they both prove untrustworthy? It’s like hearing the Oregon Trail disaster music playing, this time not only for any romance between Cal and Maggie, but for their bruised hearts as well. 

    Fave secondary characters are Georgia, Jack, and Angus. Georgia for her loyalty and willingness to listen to people who have messed up. Jack, because he’s not very brave or confident, yet he’s a wild card. Who will he help when the chips are down? He’s a great catalyst to story action. And Angus. Stinkin’ drunk, no- good, tavern vermin Angus. Maybe no one is beyond redemption. 

    I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

    Notable Quotables:

    “It’s been my experience that people who are suspicious of everybody are usually hiding something.” – Cal

    “I’ve been paying lip-service to trusting God and not being afraid of what men can do to me, then turning back to do things my way.” – Maggie

    “I don’t think Cal will survive much more of you doing your job.” – Alec

    “Her experience told her once a scoundrel always a scoundrel, and it was the ones who pretended to change that needed watching the most.” – (Maggie)

    “She played you like a fiddle, and you danced like a trained bear.”– Powers

    “Both of them taught us how much we needed God’s love and forgiveness.” – Cal

    My Rating

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Great! Fun historical romance set in the Old West.

    Blog Stops

    Devoted Steps, November 11

    Pens Pages & Pulses, November 11

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 12

    Lyssa Loves Books, November 12

    Fiction Book Lover, November 13 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

    Texas Book-aholic, November 13

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 14

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 15

    For Him and My Family, November 15

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 16

    Devoted To Hope, November 16

    Melissa’s Bookshelf, November 17

    Artistic Nobody, November 17 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

    She Lives To Read, November 18

    lakesidelivingsite, November 18

    Simple Harvest Reads, November 19 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

    Locks, Hooks and Books, November 19

    Book Looks by Lisa, November 20

    Life on Chickadee Lane, November 21

    The Mommies Reviews, November 21

    Cover Lover Book Review, November 22

    Blossoms and Blessings, November 23

    Holly’s Book Corner, November 23

    Vicky Sluiter, November 24

    Pause for Tales, November 24

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Erica is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

    Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

    https://promosimple.com/ps/3d59d/maggie-and-the-maverick-celebration-tour-giveaway

    ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Just Read Tours, Kindle, Launch Team, Purchase

    His Boss’s Little Sister by Danielle Grandinetti Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for His Boss’s Little Sister by Danielle Grandinetti, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

    About the Book

    Title: His Boss’s Little Sister
    Series: Apron Strings Tea Tales
    Author: Danielle Grandinetti
    Publisher: Hearth Spot Press
    Release Date: November 18, 2025
    Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense

    Broken hearts, underground smuggling, and a meddling family … one Wisconsin Teehaus offers a love of more than sweet treats.

    November 1931—Needing a new start, Samantha Martins escapes the happily-ever-afters of her hometown to take a waitressing position at a German Tea House. But all is not as it appears beneath the pretty trappings. When she discovers illegal oleomargarine on the premises, which could shut down the cafe, and thus cost her job, she goes searching for the source.

    Samantha’s old beau, Kyle Docherty, returns to Crow’s Nest a changed man, both inside and out. An apology burning in his heart, he finds she’s left home. However, with trouble on her trail, Samantha’s brother hires Kyle to be her bodyguard. But will she even speak to him? And if not, will she at least allow him to protect her, even without the arm he lost in a logging accident?

    When the breadcrumbs lead them into a trap, putting Kyle’s life in danger, Samantha faces an impossible choice: listen to Kyle and run for help, or stay a captive and outwit a criminal. If only the ticking bomb were on their side.

    A touch of fairy tale, a spoonful of history, and a teacup of hope.

    His Boss’s Little Sister is a stand-alone novella in the Apron Strings Tea Tale multi-author series, and a 1930s historical romance retelling of Hansel and Gretel.

    Fans of the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series will enjoy revisiting familiar characters and discovering the HEA of the hero’s little sister from Confessions to a Stranger.

    PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | DanielleGrandinetti.com | Amazon | BookBub

    Also Available

    About the Author

    Danielle Grandinetti is an award-winning inspirational romance author fueled by tea, books, and the creative beauty of nature. Her stories combine romance, mystery, and suspense against the backdrop of the 1930s to tell the tale of finding home and hope in hard times. With a master’s in communication and culture and a passion for intercultural communication, storytelling has been her heartbeat for as long as she can remember. Married to her hero, Danielle is a second-generation Italian-American, a dairy farmer’s granddaughter, and a boy mom from Chicagoland who now lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline.

    Connect with Danielle by visiting daniellegrandinetti.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

    My Impressions

    “…she’d trust him with everything except her heart.”

    Le Sigh!  The above quote, from Danielle Grandinetti’s The Boss’s Little Sister, is so poignant. While this book is part of the Apron String series, all books are loosely connected, involving tearooms and Mrs. Canfield’s Cookery Book. However, this book is very closely tied to The Harbored in Crow’s Nest series. You will want to have read all of that series to understand the backstory of the Martins family ( Samantha -Sam- and her brothers David and Patrick), plus Kyle’s backstory. Sam had thought herself in love with Kyle, but Kyle had gone away to a lumber camp, then out West, refusing to communicate with Sam or acknowledge her expressed feelings. Honestly, neither Sam nor Kyle was very likeable in previous books. So I really enjoyed watching each of them prove their maturation in this book. But, oh, the trials they go through to prove their mettle!

    I have rarely wanted to truly live in a time period or place of a book setting. But 1930s Wisconsin?! Yes, please! Grandinetti has done her research and the danger in this book revolves around “The Oleo Wars” in Wisconsin. (How I wished I could have lived in a state that outlawed oleo growing up!!😂) Grandinetti’s writing caused me to do my own research into the Oleo Wars. I always consider a book that causes me to leave it long enough to research its topic on my own, a great book. 

    And the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel connection? I was like, I don’t see it!  I didn’t see the culprit until I, too, would have been trapped! Love those kind of mysteries, where the clues are there, but there are enough red herrings that it is easy to be fooled by the ending!

    I received a copy of the book from Just Read Tours. I also bought my own copy, and will be buying one for my trophy shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

    Notable Quotables:

    “The day’s weariness crashed into her like a Lake Michigan wave, catching her about the knees and knocking her off kilter.” – Sam

    “Margarine was outlawed from being served in restaurants, but margarine that had been turned yellow to look like butter? That was a serious offence here in Wisconsin.”

    “We can’t force people to choose help, to choose love over bitterness and hate. All we can do is pray and show them compassion.” – David

     “Trouble shakes out all the excess to leave only what’s true behind.”- Sam

    “that’s why, when you have questions, you need to ask what’s really going on so you can learn the truth.”– Sam

    “This was a mistake. The whole plan was a mistake. He shouldn’t have listened to Marian Ward Cox urge his return to Crow’s Nest. He shouldn’t have agreed to Detective O’Connor’s request to keep his niece safe. He shouldn’t have accepted David’s job offer. And he sure as foolin’ shouldn’t have let Patrick convince him that forgiveness was possible.” – Kyle

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Superior! I haven’t met a Grandinetti story I haven’t loved, but between the characters’ growth arcs, the fairy tale retelling, and the history of the WI Oleo Wars, this is a standout!!

    Tour Giveaway

    (2) winners will each receive a paperback copy of Confessions to a Stranger & Escape with the Prodigal!

    Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 10, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 17, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

    Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

    Enter Giveaway

    Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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    Unending Hope by Cindy Kay Stewart Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Unending Hope

    Author: Cindy Kay Stewart

    Genre: Historical Christian Romance

    Release Date: July 29, 2025

    As WWII expands across Europe, members of the Circle of Hope are drawn deeper into the struggle to survive in the face of overwhelming adversity.

    April 1940. Nazi Germany carries out a devastating invasion, trapping Americans David Jensen and Natalie Thompson in Norway. Determined to use their medical skills to aid the Norwegians, David and Natalie embark on a harrowing journey to treat the injured and evade the Nazis.

    Natalie, a dedicated Red Cross worker, values deep relationships. Fearful of settling for a shallow marriage, she broke off her engagement to David several years before. But she never stopped loving him and spending time working together in Norway plays havoc with her heart.

    David, a charismatic and confidant doctor with the Red Cross, desires to advance his career and rekindle his relationship with Natalie. Even though she once rejected him, he believes she is the only woman for him. But years of keeping others at arms’ length guarantees that winning Natalie back will be the biggest challenge he’s ever faced.

    The saga introduced in Abounding Hope continues in this inspiring second installment of courage and devotion.

    Readers of Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale and Lee Jackson’s After Dunkirk series will love this book.

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Cindy Kay Stewart, a retired high school social studies and special education teacher, writes stories of hope, steeped in love, and anchored in faith. Passionate about revealing God’s handiwork in history, Cindy loves to research until she uncovers hidden gems to share with her readers. She resides in North Georgia with her college sweetheart. Her daughter, son-in-law, and four adorable grandchildren live nearby.

    More from Cindy

    Those who love learning about bygone eras through fiction, will enjoy escaping to WWII Norway and France in Unending Hope, Book 2 in the Circle of Hope series. This novel follows the adventures of former boarding school classmates who vowed to come to each other’s aid in times of crisis, and WWII provides plenty of trouble for these diehard twenty-somethings to work through. Abounding Hope, Book 1 in the series, is a friends-to-lovers romance, and Unending Hope is a second-chance romance. The novels are sequential to the timeline of WWII.

    As well as struggling to safely navigate their responsibilities, the major characters in both novels seek answers to their needs and problems, which can only be found by embarking on a spiritual journey that’s just as climactic as their physical adventures.

    I love to research and dig up true stories I’ve never heard about or seen before and then share the most interesting ones through the lives of my characters. Bringing history to life is an adventure for me, and keeping my stories historically accurate is a goal I always strive to meet.

    My Impressions

    “If only he could go back several years and change their last months together, Natalie would be his wife now instead of his ex-fiancée.”

    Unending Hope by Cindy Kay Stewart is the second in the Circle of Hope Series. A Christian high school in Paris is the meeting place for many friends who years later gather in Norway for the wedding of Anne to Erik, a Norwegian banker. Unfortunately, just two days after the wedding, the Nazis invade Norway, trapping six friends in the country. 

    While we follow the side stories of newly-weds Erik and Anne, and also newlyweds Irena and Jonathan, David and Natalie are the main focus of this book. Having once been engaged, Natalie had broken it off with David a few years ago. Unable to see his own self-absorption, David doesn’t understand the cause of their breakup, and he continues to carry a torch for Natalie. 

    With the Luftwaffe swiftly moving into the Norwegian airspace, there is plenty of danger to test the mettle of all three couples. Twining all three escape stories together makes for a tight and tense story and more chances to see the advance of the German army as it happened in Norway’s history. 

    I think this book would be especially good for someone who likes stories about WWII and also might be trying to figure out God’s will for their lives, especially as regards one person who may not be a dedicated believer.  David claims to be a believer, but he has no interest in praying, reading his Bible, or following God’s will. Stewart sets up some surprising tertiary characters who show David there is a difference.

    Stewart liberally uses Scripture throughout the novel, and includes short prayers of her characters. We see where each is spiritually. Interestingly enough, even the one that seems the most spiritual finds roots of sin to be weeded out of their heart. A reminder to us all to be careful of judging others as we harbor sin. One of Natalie’s wise friends reminds her, “…unforgiveness always destroys a person’s soul. Don’t close off your heart because of the past.”

    With bombs aplenty, air raid sirens frequently going off, fires from said bombs, rush to stay one or two cities ahead of the Nazi invasion and ensuing chaos of war, I feel a little off-kilter. I could almost smell the fires, and I definitely cringed imagining the sirens. Reading of the death and destruction the characters faced, but continued to work in the midst of, wow! We need to be reminded of that bravery and loyalty. 

    Unfortunately for the reader, Stewart sets herself up nicely for the need for book three. Once again, we’ll be watching the skies from behind blackout curtains!

    I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

    Notable Quotables:

    “true love grows in proportion to our love for the Lord.” Mme. Chappelle

    “I became a Christian by believing in Christ, but I’m becoming a disciple of Christ by obeying Him.” -Richard

    “‘Love isn’t enough, is it?’ ‘…if you’re talking about a giddy feeling, then no, it’s not enough. But if you’re talking about a willingness to sacrifice your own desires, wants, and needs to meet those of the one you cherish, then you have a start. But it needs to be mutual.’”- Mme. Chappelle

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Great! Suspenseful WWII second-chance Romance

    Blog Stops

    Bizwings Blog, November 5

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 6

    Texas Book-aholic, November 7

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 8

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 9

    For Him and My Family, November 10

    lakesidelivingsite, November 11

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 12

    The Bookish Pilgrim, November 12

    Connie’s history classroom , November 13

    Stories By Gina, November 14 (Author Interview)

    The Mommies Reviews, November 14

    Books You Can Feel Good About, November 15

    Holly’s Book Corner, November 16

    Mary Hake, November 16

    Cover Lover Book Review, November 17

    Life on Chickadee Lane, November 17

    Pause for Tales, November 18

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Cindy is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

    Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

    https://promosimple.com/ps/3d00b/unending-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

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    The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall by Jaime Jo Wright Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    THE BELL TOLLS AT TRAEGER HALL

    by Jaime Jo Wright

    October 20 – November 14, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

    Synopsis:

    The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall by Jaime Jo Wright

    An abandoned estate encased in stagnant darkness . . .
    A haunting legacy intent on silencing all within reach . . .

    In 1890, the ominous tolling of the bell announces that death has come to Traeger Hall, leaving orphaned Waverly Pembrooke to piece together the puzzle behind her uncle’s and aunt’s murders. Bound by the terms of her uncle’s eccentric will, Waverly finds herself alone in a manor shrouded by death and questioning the reasons for her uncle’s paranoia. A madness hovers over Traeger Hall, and Waverly–as well as the people of nearby Newton Creek–are ill-prepared for the woe that has descended.

    In present day Newton Creek, whispers of a family curse still cling to the century-old, abandoned property of Traeger Hall. When Jennie Phillips takes possession of the estate after her mother’s passing, she is intent on solving the mystery of the Traeger murders. Yet a modern cold case suggests that untimely deaths and mysterious occurrences still plague the property. And as thorny truths surface, Jennie realizes the dark legacy threatens not only the town and the Traeger descendants . . . but also, chillingly, Jennie herself.

    Book Details:

    Genre: Dual Timeline Gothic Suspense
    Published by: Bethany House Publishers
    Publication Date: October 21, 2025
    Number of Pages: 336
    ISBN: 9780764243806, paperback
    Book Links: AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOKSHOP.ORG | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | BAKER BOOK HOUSE

    Excerpt:

    Read the excerpt here:

    https://drive.google.com/file/d/12o4zJl4f2A6wOZF5e_vfsGM83JIGIaLB/view?usp=drivesdk

    My Review:

    Jaime Jo Wright and Bethany House Fiction team up to bring us a very timely release for the Halloween season, The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall. Wright’s works are infused with great spooky settings, without being supernatural, which is something I greatly appreciate. Poe-like touches are added to Traeger Hall with the deceased’s will commanding corpses to be guarded in the house for seven days. Other Poe whispers include a boarding up of the abandoned mansion, a cat inclusion, and a bell “tolling!” The mansion itself is described in Poe-esque language: “Its suppressed heartbeat had thudded quietly for decades, and now it seemed it was coming back to life.”

    “Come, know my secrets.”

    Jennie Phillips is a former art student and enthusiast who bonded over masterpieces with her deceased mother. Now, she finds herself heir to a decrepit mansion that according to a codicil,  she can’t open. What mysteries lie inside the ominous Traeger Hall of old, and how will any exploration she does affect the handsome, neighbor Zane and his loving, neurodivergent son? How will Wright successfully bring the two story strands together into one whole story? This is the beauty of a well-told, dual-timeline, and Wright excels at it, as well. 

    I loved this Wright book and highly recommend it for those who like eerie vibes that work out reasonably and scary stories told with faith as their bedrock. I received a copy of the book from Partners in Crime Tours via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy for my trophy shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

    I was happy to see discussion questions and author’s notes included at the back. These are always important to understanding the book better!

    Notable Quotables:

    “I believe God helps those of us who experience trauma so we can discover the path to keep going in spite of the pain. To have faith and find strength outside of ourselves and hopefully”—Zane’s gaze dropped to meet Jennie’s—“find beauty again.” Zane

    “When you tried to fight a monster, they always came back stronger. It was better to hide under the blankets.” – Jennie

    “even after someone had passed from the earth, their voice still echoed in the hearts of the ones who loved them the most.”– Jennie

    “I have found that the unlikely often becomes the likely, whale the likely often never sees the light of day.” -Waverly

    My Rating:

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Superior! Jaime Jo Wright’s dual-timeline mysteries are always an eerie pleasure to read. The inclusion of a lovable, neurodivergent little boy makes the book all the more poignant.

    Giveaway:

    https://www.promoamp.com/c/the-bell-tolls-at-traeger-hall-by-jaime-jo-wright

    ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Purchase

    Defending You by Robin Patchen Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Defending You

    Author: Robin Patchen

    Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

    Release Date: October 14, 2025

    She stumbled onto a deadly secret. The man she once wronged is the only one who can keep her alive. 

    Cecilia “Cici” Wright has built a life she loves as a jewelry appraiser. But when her latest find—a priceless ruby necklace—links to decades-old murders in her hometown of Shadow Cove, Cici becomes the target of ruthless killers. Forced to flee for her life, she must rely on the man she humiliated in the most shameful moment of her life.

    Asher Rhodes puts his Navy SEAL training to good use as a bodyguard for high-paying clients. Keeping his emotions locked away is the secret to his strength. But Cici Wright isn’t just a client—she’s the girl who scorned him, the last woman in the world he ever wanted to see again. Having her close churns up all the reasons he once loved her. Protecting her means facing not just the killers chasing them but the wounds she left behind.

    Cici and Asher find themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse, where trust is their only weapon and attraction their greatest vulnerability. With time running out, they must overcome their painful history and work together to defeat their enemies—before it’s too late.

    Don’t miss Defending You, book 7 in Robin Patchen’s Wright Heroes of Maine series. Packed with heart-pounding suspense, sizzling romance, and unforgettable characters, you won’t be able to put this one down.

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Robin Patchenis a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of Christian romantic suspense. She grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, the setting of her Coventry Saga books, and then headed to Boston to earn a journalism degree. Working in marketing, she discovered how much she loathed the nine-to-five ball and chain. After relocating to the Southwest, she started writing her first novel while homeschooling her three children. The novel was dreadful, but her passion for storytelling didn’t wane. Thankfully, as her children grew, so did her writing ability. Now that her kids are adults, she has more time to play with the lives of fictional heroes and heroines, wreaking havoc and working magic to give her characters happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s editing or reading, proving that most of her life revolves around the twenty-six letters of the alphabet.

    More from Robin

    Meet Cici Wright: The Relatable Heroine of Defending You

    There’s nothing I love more than crafting a heroine who feels like a friend—someone to root for, cry with, and cheer on as she faces impossible odds. In Defending You, the seventh book in my Wright Heroes of Maine series, that heroine is Cici Wright. She’s a jewelry appraiser with a sharp eye for gems, a heart full of courage, and a quiet struggle that I think many of us can relate to: the need to prove she matters.

    A Woman on a Mission

    Cici Wright is the middle daughter of five girls, and if you’ve read the earlier books in the series, you know her older sisters, Alyssa and Brooklynn, have come through some difficult times—and proved themselves not just capable but heroic.

    When we meet Cici in Defending You, she’s doing what she loves: traveling from city to city and gazing into some of the world’s most precious gems. But beneath her confident exterior lies a woman who feels the weight of her sisters’ accomplishments and wonders if she’ll ever measure up.

    Who hasn’t felt the pressure to prove themselves—whether to family, friends, or even their own inner critic? Cici’s journey begins when she discovers a long-lost necklace tied to a decades-old crime. Her decision to protect it sets off a chain of events that thrusts her into danger, forcing her to confront not just external threats but her own insecurities.

    Strength in Vulnerability

    What I love most about Cici is how her strength shines through her vulnerability. She’s a woman who loves beauty, who finds joy in the sparkle of a well-cut diamond, and who’s suddenly caught in a deadly game with rules she’s never learned. Despite her lack of training, Cici manages to keep herself alive long enough to get help.

    Cici’s resourcefulness proves that heroism doesn’t always come from training or experience; sometimes, it’s born from sheer determination and a refusal to give up.

    Enter Asher Rhodes, the bodyguard tasked with keeping her safe. Their history—his high school crush was crushed by the most humiliating moment of his life—adds layers to their dynamic. I loved writing their reunion, which is filled with tension, a little humor, and a slow-burn romance that I hope will leave you swooning.

    Cici’s not afraid to call Asher out when he’s being overbearing—which she thinks is pretty much all the time. But she learns to trust him…for the most part.

    A Journey We All Understand

    For Cici, the story is about more than surviving danger; it’s about discovering her own worth. She starts desperate to distinguish herself, to be seen as more than the other Wright sister. By the end, she’s learned that her value doesn’t come from outshining others but from embracing who she is—flaws, fears, and all. It’s a journey I think many of us can relate to, whether we’re chasing a career goal, navigating family expectations, or simply trying to find our place in the world.

    As I wrote Cici’s story, I thought about the readers who’ve told me they see themselves in my heroines. Cici’s not perfect—she’s stubborn, a little impulsive, and sometimes lets her pride get in the way. But she’s also fiercely loyal, quick-thinking, and willing to risk everything for what’s right. She’s the kind of heroine who reminds us that courage doesn’t mean being fearless but acting despite the fear.

    Join Cici’s Adventure

    Defending You is a story of heart-pounding suspense, a romance that sparks amidst danger, and a heroine who discovers her own strength when it matters most. If you’ve ever felt the need to prove yourself or wondered if you’re enough, Cici Wright’s journey will resonate with you. And if you love a good mix of action, mystery, and a love story that grows through trust and second chances, I think you’ll fall for Cici and Asher as much as I did.

    My Impressions

    “He wasn’t here to win her approval. He was here to keep her breathing. That was the job. That was all that mattered.”

    Robin Patchen is one of the authors who has had a great influence in convincing me that romantic suspense is a genre I truly like! The Wright Heroes of Maine is such a great series! Each book details the story of a different Wright family member and his or her Romance amidst much danger. While each, including book 7, Defending You, can be enjoyed as a standalone, I am glad to have read each of the previous ones in order, as they do build. Especially this book builds on the characters and events of the book immediately preceding it.

    Cici Wright, a jewelry appraiser, is witness to a murder. On the run for her life from the jewelry thieves, she finds herself in the company of the last person she would have selected to be her bodyguard- Asher Rhodes. Currently working for the Green Beret Protection Agency, Asher was once a shy, geeky high school classmate of CiCi’s, and one whom she had cruelly humiliated. 

    Both Asher and CiCi have some healing and growing to do. CiCi feels the need to excel in such a way that she will standout from her sisters and be noticed at long last by her dismissive, high-ranking father. Asher feels the need to prove himself at the agency in order to secure his job as well as to show CiCi that her rejection didn’t scar him- if only that were true! 

    To protect his heart as he protects her safety, Asher treats CiCi with disdain and as if she is an underling to be commanded. CiCi, with her sense of needing to prove herself and having a bit of entitlement, insists on having much more a say in the protection plans Asher leads them into. “She laughed, though the sound held zero humor. “Look, I get that you’re better than I am in dangerous situations, but that doesn’t make me stupid. My opinion counts. I’m not your soldier or your lackey.”

    The action is intense, steady, and addictive! The couple are both flawed, and it took me a while to at least like Asher. He is a one man- no questions asked- show. 

    I felt most deeply for CiCi, so desperate to do something notable, in an effort to secure her father’s love. I was happy to see Asher finally able to open up and help CiCi realize that her earthly father’s failings didn’t represent how her Heavenly Father felt about her. “You do know what He’d”[ her Heavenly Father] “say. That you’re the person He created you to be, and He adores you. So…not that it’s easy or anything, but I guess my point is, who cares what Gavin Wright thinks when you have the King of the whole universe pleased with you?” – Asher

    Patchen does a great job of keeping the suspense high, throwing in truth nuggets, and surprise twists that make the story resonate! Highly recommended!

    I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

    Notable Quotables:

    “I’ve spent so much time trying to prove I matter that I forgot to actually live the life God gave me. To choose what I want instead of what I think will make other people happy.” – CiCi

    “…That’s why it’s better not to have anyone you care about…Love is a liability.” – Gagnon

    “You can’t judge someone’s character by their bank account.” – CiCi

    “To live is to risk. Security is an illusion.” – Asher

    My Rating

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Superior! I’m very glad there are a couple more books left in this series!

    Blog Stops

    Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 30

    Pens Pages & Pulses, October 30

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 31

    Texas Book-aholic, November 1

    The Mommies Reviews, November 1

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 2

    For Him and My Family, November 3

    Mary Hake, November 3

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 4

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 5

    Stories By Gina, November 5

    lakesidelivingsite, November 6

    Blogging With Carol, November 7

    Holly’s Book Corner, November 8

    Book Looks by Lisa, November 9

    Cover Lover Book Review, November 9

    Blossoms and Blessings, November 10

    Pause for Tales, November 11

    A Good Book and Cup of Tea, November 12

    Bizwings Blog, November 12

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Robin is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of Capturing You!!

    Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

    https://promosimple.com/ps/3d28b/defending-you-celebration-tour-giveaway

    Barbour, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, New-to-Me Author, Purchase

    The Daughter of Shiloh by Terri J. Haynes Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: The Daughter of Shiloh (Enduring Hope Book Three)

    Author: Terri J. Haynes

    Genre: Christian Fiction / Romance / Historical Fiction

    Release Date: October 1, 2025

    A Stampede Tramples Hopes

    Collect a series of six historical romances. When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

    Lealie Bevard, a determined Tuskegee Institute student, attends the Shiloh Baptist Church convention in Birmingham on September 19, 1902, to request a scholarship for continued education at Harvard. But a beautiful gathering turns tragic when a stampede breaks out and Lealie is injured. While convalescing at the home of fellow Tuskegee student Milton Rafferty, Lealie’s concerns for her future are set aside to help Milton uncover a mystery revolving around missing church funds and a possible murder. Perhaps a pause in Lealie’s well-laid plans can be used for good and lead to love.

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Terri J. Haynes, a native Baltimorean, is a homeschool mom, writer, prolific knitter, freelance graphic artist and former Army wife (left the Army, not the husband). She loves to read, so much that when she was in elementary school, she masterminded a plan to be locked in a public library armed with only a flashlight to read all the books and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. As she grew, her love for writing grew as she tried her hand at poetry, articles, speeches and fiction. She is storyteller at heart. Her passion is to draw readers in the story world she has created and to bring laughter and joy to their lives.

    Terri is a 2010 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis contest finalist, and a 2012 semi-finalist. She is also a 2013 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Quarterfinalist. Her publishing credits include: Cup of Comfort for Military Families, Crosswalk.com, the Secret Place Devotional, Urbanfaith.com, Vista Devotional, and Publisher’s Weekly.

    Terri holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology, a Master’s degree in Theological Studies and a certificate in creative writing and graphic design, meeting the minimal requirements of being a geek. She and her husband pastor a church where she serves as executive pastor and worship leader. Terri lives in Maryland with her three wonderful children and her husband, who often beg her not to kill off their favorite characters.

    More from Terri

    Growing up in inner-city Baltimore as the fourth daughter of five, money was always tight. Each school year, my mother paid for one field trip because that was all she could afford. With only one shot, I had to pick wisely.

    I choose museums every year.

    Some years, it was the Walter’s Art Gallery. Others, The Baltimore Museum of Art. I passed up the amusement parks and sports games to go walk through history. My history walking hasn’t changed now that I’m an adult. If I’m traveling, I’m always checking to see what museums are nearby.

    History, for me, isn’t just about learning about old things. It’s about learning about old struggles, victories, and modern applications of those things. When I first learned about the Shiloh Baptist Church disaster, it struck me as horrifying and hopeless. As I began to research, however, I saw that this moment in history had a lesson to teach.

    The Shiloh Baptist Church stampede is a story of resilience. It gives a snapshot of people, in the worst moment of their lives, figuring out how to move forward. I was moved by the community coming together to care for the victims, many of them total strangers. How local business owners donated to the care of strangers or to cover funeral costs.

    History walking informs. It showed me, from a young age, strength and hope. It taught me lessons from ancient texts that helped me through the dark days I encountered in my personal life while writing this book. I wrote this book informed by history that I could face hard times because others did decades ago.

    So if you are feeling like there are hard days ahead for you, do a little history walking. Hit the museums or the books. Learn history’s lessons. They are rich and priceless.

    My Impressions

    “you are their beloved daughter, and I am their troublesome son.”– Milton

    The Daughter of Shiloh by Terri J. Haynes is a story of conflict, opposing opinions, and people uniting to work together despite their differences. Herein lies the hope of a story that recounts years of prejudice, discrimination, and a true tragedy of that occurred in a Birmingham church. I was somewhat uncomfortable reading of some of the prejudice that I cannot correct. Yet the story needs told, and I was thankful that the characters looked beyond their problems ( not denying them) to find Hope in following Jesus. 

    Lealia Bevard is highly intelligent, beautiful, and does exceptionally well at Tuskegee. She is on the fast track for a scholarship to Howard. She believes this is her and her family’s path out of poverty. She agrees to accompany Booker T. Washington to the Baptist convention in Birmingham at her former home church, Shiloh Baptist Church, because there she will be awarded the scholarship. A wise friend tells her, “I know you have hopes of how things will go in Birmingham, but remember, God may have other plans. His ways are not our ways, you know.”

    Not if Lealia has anything to do with said plans!

    Milton Rafferty, our other key player, is also a product of Shiloh Baptist Church. But his is not a love story. A continuously drunk father, an ill-timed event, and wagging tongues conspire to make Milton and his mother pariahs. The same people who are blessing Lealia are cursing Milton. As Lealia slowly gets to know Milton, she begins to see what a rock-steady nurse and man of character he is, because of his faith. Lealia is attracted to Milton, even as he hides his secret from her, and she becomes more and more involved in Shiloh Baptist Church. 

    What will it take for Lealia to shake off her arrogance and personal ambition to align with God’s will? What will it take for the members of Shiloh to accept Milton back into their midst? Can Lealia and Milton work together to help a hurting community and keep a church from being decimated in a totally different way? 

    One of my fave characters is Milton’s mom. She sloughs off insults like water off a duck’s back. She understands that “People who are afraid can sometimes act in very cruel ways.” Mrs. Rafferty still speaks kindly of the Shiloh people and treats them with respect. “You can’t change other people’s fears, Milton. But you can change yours.” (However, she also recognizes a quack!)

    I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

    Notable Quotables:

    “That’s why it’s called faith. Sometimes you don’t know if something is going to work or if you’re going in the right direction. You have to trust that God has a bigger plan for you than where you are right now.” -Mrs. Rafferty

    “The Talented Tenth will show the way to the future.” -DuBois

    “Going back to Shiloh was going to hurt. He could feel it.” – Milton

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Magnificent! Food for thought in many ways, plus an excellent example of how people who may not agree can still work together in unity!

    Blog Stops

    Life on Chickadee Lane, October 29

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 30

    Texas Book-aholic, October 31

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 1

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 2

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 3

    For Him and My Family, November 4

    Devoted To Hope, November 5

    Stories By Gina, November 6 (Author Interview)

    Mary Hake, November 6

    Simple Harvest Reads, November 7 (Guest Review from Donna)

    Holly’s Book Corner, November 8

    Book Butterfly in Dreamland , November 9

    Cover Lover Book Review, November 9

    Pause for Tales, November 10

    Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, November 12 (Author Interview)

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Terri is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon e-Gift card and a print copy of the book!!

    Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

    https://promosimple.com/ps/3d288/the-daughter-of-shiloh-celebration-tour-giveaway

    BLOG

    Why I’ve Been Absent in October…

    Babbling Becky L

    Yikes, I hate to not post for so much time all together, at least 1/2 a month or even more. Let me share a few pics and you’ll see why I was pre-occupied with something besides reading!

    The big brother. “ Where are the bad guys?” he asked his mom once he was in costume!

    Every night, big brother wanted a picture with “my baby!”

    Our fourth grandson was born many miles away, which necessitated a long road trip to a warmer clime! (Yay- it was still in the 70s and 80s there, as opposed to Michigan’s reluctant return to fall!)

    Great sunset there.
    Why they’re called the Blue Ridge! Ridge after ridge after ridge, amazing to see from the sky!

    One of my fave birds, the mockingbird is common and likes to pose in the open in that area!

    In the meantime, our dog celebrated at a dog party while we were gone!!( her friend’s bday!)

    In the meantime, I’m home in the cold MIchigan air. I will resume posting books tomorrow. Thanks for not getting lost while I was gone!

    BLOG, Just Read Tours

    The Christy Award Finalists 2025

    Babbling Becky L

    Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for The Christy Award Finalists 2025 organized by ECPA and hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! We extend our sincere and enthusiastic congratulations to The Christy Award 2025 Finalists & Winners (announced on November 7th)!

    You are Invited

    The Christy Award Gala 2025
    Via webcast
    November 7, 2025 | 7 pm CT
    Featuring Chris Fabry, T.I. Lowe, Jessica Hooten Wilson, and a host of Christy-winning authors

    This is our year to gather together VIRTUALLY to celebrate and honor the best Christian fiction of the year. The Christy Award® Gala Webcast will be held the evening of Friday, November 7th and will feature a premiere cast of the industry’s authors to announce The Christy Award winners in nine categories, The Christy Book of the Year®, and The Amplify Award for Christian Fiction.

    The special evening will be hosted by radio personality and award-winning novelist Chris Fabry and will include keynotes by Fletcher Jones Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University, Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson and award-winning and Christy Book of the Year 2024 author, T.I. Lowe. The event will also include award-winning novelists Jaime Jo Wright, Johanna Rojas Vann, Lori Z. Scott, Katie Powner, Jamie Ogle, Rachelle Nelson, Vanessa Miller, Gabrielle Meyer, Crystal Caudill and Amanda Barratt.

    The Christy Award Finalists 2025

    CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE-tie

    A Run at Love, Toni Shiloh (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
    The Nature of Love, Toni Shiloh (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
    The Roads We Follow, Nicole Deese (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
    Who Touches the Mountains, Deborah Raney (Raney Day Press)

    FIRST NOVEL

    Darkfell, Amanda Wright (Quill and Flame Publishing House)
    Until Our Time Comes, Nicole M. Miller (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
    The Yellow Badge, Addison Crissone (Addison Crissone)

    GENERAL FICTION – tie

    Between the Sound and Sea, Amanda Cox (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
    Bitter and Sweet, Rhonda McKnight (Thomas Nelson)
    Lowcountry Lost, T.I. Lowe (Tyndale House Publishers)
    The Way Back, Heidi Chiavaroli (Hope Creek Publishers)

    HISTORICAL

    All We Thought We Knew, Michelle Shocklee (Tyndale House Publishers)
    Born of Gilded Mountains, Amanda Dykes (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
    The Queen’s Cook, Tessa Afshar (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)

    HISTORICAL ROMANCE- tie

    As Sure as the Sea, Jamie Ogle (Tyndale House Publishers)
    The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple, Joanna Davidson Politano (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
    The Seaside Homecoming, Julie Klassen (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
    Walking on Hidden Wings, Rachel Scott McDaniel (Kregel Publications)

    MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER- tie

    The Crown Conspiracy, Connie Mann (Tyndale House Publishers)
    Night Falls on Predicament Avenue, Jaime Jo Wright (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
    Serial Burn, Lynette Eason (Revell/ Baker Publishing Group)
    Shattered Sanctuary, Nancy Mehl (Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group)
    Terminal Danger, Jerusha Agen (SDG Words)

    SHORT FORM- tie

    A Daffodil in the Dress (within Something Borrowed), Susie Finkbeiner (Kregel Publications)
    Forgiving the Cowboy, Tabitha Bouldin (Love Inspired)
    A Heart in Disguise (within Something Borrowed), Rachel Scott McDaniel (Kregel Publications)
    A Letter to Eli (within Something Borrowed), Allison Pittman (Kregel Publications)

    SPECULATIVE- tie

    A Slice of Sky, Nancy Moser (Mustard Seed Press)
    Darkfell, Amanda Wright (Quill and Flame Publishing House)
    Memoria, J.J. Fischer (Enclave, a division of Oasis Family Media)
    Protector, Megan Schaulis (WhiteCrown, an imprint of WhiteFire Publishing)

    YOUNG ADULT- tie

    Ben Washington is the Newbie on the Block, Jasmine Mullen (Moody Publishers)
    The Chaos Grid, Lyndsey Lewellen (Enclave Escape, a division of Oasis Family Media)
    Echo Nova, Clint Hall (Enclave Escape, a division of Oasis Family Media)
    Jake Rogers’ Planet, Philip Wilder (Great Commission Alliance)

    Register for the Christy Award 2025 Winners Webcast

    The Christy Award winners webcast on November 7 at 7 p.m. CT. – free but registration is required.
    Celebrate this year’s finalists and winners with authors, editors, publishers, and readers!

    REGISTER

    The Christy Award® is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) and is the foremost award honoring and promoting excellence in Christian fiction since 1999. For more information about ECPA, visit ECPA.org. For more information about the Christy Awards and Art of Writing conferences, visit ChristyAwards.com or email TheChristyAward@ecpa.org

    Author and Reader Event

    Join fellow readers and 46 writers at the third annual Rendezvous to celebrate Christian fiction and sweet reads. This event, modeled after the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat and organized by JustRead Publicity Tours, aims to sweeten reading and storytelling experiences with fellowship and encouragement. Activities will include corporate worship, The Christy Award webcast watch party, speaker sessions, author panels, small group discussions, games, giveaways, a pop-up book shop, and author signings.

    Learn more about the 2025 Read Write Rendezvous

    Registration Ends Oct 15!

    My Impressions

    Last year was the first time I attended Rendezvous. I was plenty nervous, as I easily slip back into my introverted shell. But the authors are all so kind, personable, and willing to talk and pose with complete, starstruck strangers! They also spread throughout the room during the day, giving us readers more opportunities to meet them.

    Plus, we get to meet other readers we know only by picture or name. I am looking forward to seeing many from last year, and meeting new friends I’ve made online over favorite books!

    We also have a special time of worship together ( and they even allow non-tune carriers to sing their hearts out!) Plus, there are author panels and speakers not to be missed! You won’t be sorry you came. Everyone makes an effort to treat you like family. Because that is what we are! See you there!

    Tour Giveaway

    (1) winner will receive print copies of The Christy Award 2025 finalist titles for one category of their choice!

    Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 10, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 17, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

    Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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    ARC, BLOG, Just Read Tours, Kindle, Love Inspired, New-to-Me Author, Purchase

    Escaping the Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks Review and Givaway

    Babbling Becky L

    Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Escaping the Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

    About the Book

    Title: Escaping the Wilderness
    Author: Carrie Stuart Parks
    Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
    Release Date: September 30, 2025
    Genre: Romantic Suspense

    On the run through the mountains—
    with only each other to trust.

    Amanda Cotton’s privileged life takes a harrowing turn when her grandfather’s dying wish places a target firmly on her back and she’s attacked by unknown assailants. Rescue comes in the form of widowed outdoorsman Boone McGregor, but the threat is just beginning. Unable to trust local law enforcement, they flee across the rugged Montana mountains. As they evade deadly enemies and navigate harsh terrain, they must put aside their differences to survive. But when a family secret is exposed, danger is closer than they imagined and more than just their lives is at stake…

    PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin.com | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

    Also Available

    About the Author

    arrie Stuart Parks is an internationally known forensic artist and law enforcement instructor, working on major criminal cases nationwide. She trains law enforcement professionals such as the FBI, Secret Service, NCIS, Federal Marshals, RCMP, Texas Rangers, and local and regional officers. She was nominated for Law Enforcement Trainer of the Year offered by the Federal Law Enforcement Academy at Glynco, Georgia. Her career highlights also include winning Woman of the Year for the Spirit of the American Woman and the first Educator of the Year by the Lewis Clark Alumni.Her bestselling mystery/suspense novels have won numerous awards including two Christys and four Carols. She was mentored by her friend Frank Peretti for eight years before launching her fiction writing career. Before that, she wrote and illustrated best-selling art books for North Light Publishers. As a professional fine artist, her paintings hang in many corporate and private collections.

    Connect with Carrie by visiting stuartparks.com/carrie-stuart-parks-home-page to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

    My Impressions

    “I’m also sending you the Bible I bought with the passages marked. I really need to change what’s between us and make things right, one way or the other. This deception can’t continue. If all else fails, I’ll send you the key.”

    Amanda Morton’s deceased mother has left a cryptic letter to her father, Amanda’s grandfather. Carrie Parks Stuart sets her Love Inspired romantic suspense, Escaping the Wilderness, in a remote, mountainous area of Montana. Amanda’s mother, before her death,  is largely absent in Amanda’s  life. Amanda’s caring grandfather has given her the “assignment” to go off grid with some of her mother’s belongings and write what she discovers about her mother. She is told to “get to know my mother through my heart, not my head.”

    Unfortunately, Amanda barely starts on this adventure before she is physically attacked, and her rental house and her mother’s belongings are destroyed by ruthless men. Boone MacGregor gets involved when he sees the original attack on Amanda. Thinking he will quickly get her to safety, it is soon evident that safety is hard to come by. Helicopters, drones, snowstorms, a fire, and much more all point to the fact that Amanda is hiding something. Yet, Amanda herself doesn’t know what she possesses that would be worth igniting this maelstrom of disaster. 

    It took me a while to become invested in these characters. I remained fairly detached until about midway through the book. Then it seemed the action kicked into urgent overdrive ( because it already was intense) and I finally cared very much about Amanda and Boone. I followed their progress closely as they had to decide who to trust, and if his simple rancher’s world can meld with her high society world, enough to even work together. “They were worlds apart. When they got out of this, could he fit into her world? Would she fit into his?” 

    Cookie, Boone’s Bernese Mountain dog, is a force that unites them.  She is a poignant, beautiful part of the story sure to appeal to any dog lovers. 

    At first, faith is another area that drives a wedge between the two. Boone is a firm believer in prayer, Amanda has rejected it after her prayers for several people go “ unanswered.” Boone is not afraid to pray aloud. When Amanda dubs him religious, Boone responds, “Religion is man’s response to the Creator. I have faith in the completed works of Jesus Christ. There’s a difference.”  That starts Amanda thinking, as she watches Boone’s care and prayers for her as they have several enemy encounters. 

    I am not going to hang up my detective shingle yet. I thought I knew who was the mastermind early on, but there are so many moving parts and people that the truth gets hidden! And the twists! I got whiplash, for sure!! Well done, Ms. Parks. 

    I received a copy of the book from JustRead Tours. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

    Notable Quotables:

    “Sometimes family secrets take on a life of their own,” -Boone

    “Even the kindest, most thoughtful and loving people can have a side we never see.” -Boone

    “I truly believe everything happens for a reason, though I may not know, nor ever know that reason. I just have to trust the Lord, in His infinite wisdom, will work things out.” – Colleen

    “Trust was a fragile thing, easily shattered,” – Amanda 

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Great! As a first-time Carrie Stuart Parks reader, I’ll be back for more!

    Tour Giveaway

    (1) winner will receive a small, original watercolor by author & professional fine artist Carrie Stuart Parks!

    Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 6, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 13, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

    Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

    Enter Giveaway

    Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!