ARC, Bethany House, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, LibraryThing Early Readers, NetGalley, Purchase

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater by Jaime Jo Wright Review

October 6, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater

Author: Jaime Jo Wright

Genre: Dual Timeline, (Historical, Contemporary), Mystery, Suspense

Release: October 10, 2023

It promises beauty but steals life instead. Will the ghosts of Barlowe Theater entomb them all?

Barlowe Theater stole the life of Greta Mercy’s eldest brother during its construction. Now in 1915, the completed theater appears every bit as deadly. When Greta’s younger brother goes missing after breaking into the building, Greta engages the assistance of a local police officer to help her unveil the already ghostly secrets of the theater. But when help comes from an unlikely source, Greta decides that to save her family she must uncover the evil that haunts the theater and put its threat to rest.

Decades later, Kit Boyd’s best friend vanishes during a ghost walk at the Barlowe Theater, and old stories of mysterious disappearances and ghoulish happenings are revived. Then television ghost-hunting host and skeptic Evan Fisher joins Kit in the quest to identify the truth behind the theater’s history. Kit reluctantly agrees to work with him in hopes of finding her missing friend. As the theater’s curse unravels Kit’s life, she is determined to put an end to the evil that has marked the theater and their hometown for the last century.

About the Author

Jaime Jo Wright, multi award-winning author–including the Christy and Daphne du Maurier awards–is a coffee-fueled and cat-fancier extraordinaire. She has entwined her life with the legendary Captain Hook, residing serenely in Wisconsin’s rural woodlands. Her literary vocation involves penning chilling Gothic tales, a baffling change from that of Austenites, with a strong preference to the master of dark, Edgar Allan Poe. Two mischievous urchins adorn their family, who keep their mother on her toes – providing an exhilarating amount of chaos.

Visit her at: http://www.jaimewrightbooks.com and listen to her podcast MadLit Musings on your favorite podcast player or at http://www.madlitmusings.com

My Impressions

“Secrets are meant to stay that way or old curses come to life. Nobody wants that.”

Wow! So many different moving pieces to this puzzle, The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater, by Jaime Jo Wright.

1. What do you need to know, in a nutshell?

This is a dualtime, occurring in 1915 Kipper’s Grove, Wisconsin, and in present time, same place.

2. The first line is a killer, and will draw you in. “Sometimes death came quietly.”

3. The main characters in the past are Greta Mercy, a poor girl, who has been befriended by wealthy socialites Eleanor Boyd and her brother, Oscar. Greta is struggling to keep herself and her brothers out of the poor house, when she falls under the curse of the theater.

“Barlowe Theater was not a place that brought joy and entertainment, as was its supposed purpose. No, it had already taken lives in the construction of it, tortured the ones who dared stand in its way, and now it was hunting those innocents who had happened into the shadows of its deadly interior. The theater was cursed.”

4. Have your blood pressure medicine ready. The stress, the angst, the wondering how many family members might be lost due to the theater’s curse!

5. In the present day, the main characters are Kit Boyd, a food pantry liaison, and Evan Fischer, a dissenting critic for a psychic TV show. Evan took a while to grow on me! Kit and Evan are searching for Madison, who disappears on a tour of the theater.

6. Only Jaime Jo Wright can take so many mixed-up creepy cards from two different stories, shuffle them thoroughly, deal them seemingly randomly, and produce a thoroughly satisfying end result, minus the fear. One you won’t see coming! One which includes not just suspense, romance, and creepiness, but God’s Truth coming to light.

Run out and get your copy of The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater now!

I received a copy of this book from Early Readers on Library Thing via NetGalley. I am also waiting for my purchased paperback copy for my keeper shelf to arrive. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“But in truth, hope was too terrifying a thing to lose to reach out and grasp it. It was easier to function without it—without expectations. Then, when loss visited, it was a familiar silence.”

“Love, loyalty, and heroism came with expiration dates. It was only a matter of time.”

“You can line up all the facts, but at some point you have to step out in faith too.”

“True loyalty isn’t based on a scale.”

“Anyone who puts all their faith in another person is bound to get hurt.”

“That was how loyalty began, though, wasn’t it? Walking through trials together and then coming out the other side of them . . . together.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Absolutely Jaime Jo Wright’s best yet!!

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, New-to-Me Author

The Resourceful Stockman by Karen Baney Review and Giveaway

October 5, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Resourceful Stockman

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Christian Western

Release Date: January 24, 2023

Gripping western romance and murder mystery set in Prescott, Arizona Territory in 1893.

Deacon Colter was happy in his job as the stockyard vet. But when his best friend asks him to work as a livestock inspector, he must confront his own obsessive-compulsive nature to support his friend. Even though he hopes for a family of his own one day, he believes that no woman will see past his quirks. Will he find a woman who can overlook his behavior to see his true heart?

Grady Thatcher waited six long years for justice for his parents’ murder. When a strange twist of fate puts him in a position to find the killers, he must decide if he will sacrifice his budding romance with one of the Harper sisters to pursue justice. Will he choose love over justice?

Lilian and Justine Harper were two sisters who moved to Prescott to escape the abusive men their father tried to pair them with. When Lilian meets Deacon Colter, she wonders if he could ever love someone with her past. Justine falls hard for Grady Thatcher. Yet she doubts if he truly loves her or if he befriended her only to get information about the men who killed his parents. Will Lilian and Justine find true happiness with the men they love?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Karen Baneyis passionate about writing stories full of flawed characters. She enjoys weaving together stories of second chances, redemption, and overcoming personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona in the late 1990s, she loves researching the state’s history and finding ways to seamlessly incorporate real history and real settings into her novels. In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry.

Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. Both Jim and Karen are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

Visit Karen on the web at: www.karenbaney.com

More from Karen

What was the inspiration behind the Colter Sons Series?

The Colters (Will and Hannah) are the central characters from my first series, the Prescott Pioneers. For years, I have wanted to write stories about their children. I love the idea of writing many series about several generations of the same family.

Nothing came of the idea until I brought back a character, Joshua, from the Prescott Pioneers who fancied Hannah before she married Will. Joshua’s unrequited love led me to write a scene where he meets Hannah and Will again after eight years. To hit home the point that Hannah had everything he always wanted, I spontaneously wrote that she had five sons. Only a few sentences sparked the idea for the entire Colter Sons Series. (Joshua’s story is in Joy for Mourning, Book 2 in the Desert Manna Series).

Before I mapped out a series outline or developed the characters, I wrote the introductory chapters in the first person from each of the son’s point of view. Their personalities came to life, and I eventually fine-tuned that writing exercise in Chapter 1 for each of the books in the series.

Where does Deacon Colter fit into the series?

Deacon Colter is the fourth Colter Son, and his book is the fourth in the series. Since he was a very minor character earlier in the series, I refined some of his character traits. (Don’t worry, I write each book in a series to stand on its own, so you won’t miss anything.)

Out of all the Colter Sons, Deacon is the most socially awkward. What made Deacon special for me was that behind his looming, large exterior lies a soft heart and fierce loyalty for those who he cares about. When under stress, his obsessive-compulsive tendencies become harder to control.

Do you normally write a story with over two points of view? Why write the four points of view in The Resourceful Stockman?

Other than my very first series, The Prescott Pioneers, I usually stick with two points of view in my novels: the hero and the heroine.

However, earlier in the Colter Sons Series, I wrote that Deacon Colter became fast friends with Grady Thatcher, the younger brother of the woman who married Deacon’s older brother Sam (The Reluctant Cattleman, Book 1). When it came time to outline the story, I knew Grady’s story had to be told along with Deacon’s. Doing anything else would disappoint fans and leave the story feeling incomplete.

Grady’s quest to solve his parents’ murder provided the perfect catalyst to force the routine-loving, obsessive-compulsive Deacon outside of his comfort zone. Because he is fiercely loyalty, he risked much to help his friend.

Where did the idea for livestock agents come from?

I initially wanted to make Deacon and Grady Arizona Rangers. However, during my research, the timing and even some duties didn’t fit either of these men. I like to stay true to history. Rarely do I take creative liberty because I want readers to learn about Arizona history. Deacon and Grady’s ages put them about a decade before the Arizona Rangers formed.

So, I continued with my research about brand-burning and rustling. When I stumbled on an Arizona Territorial statute to create a Livestock Commission, complete with details on what the duties entailed, I had my answer. The timing and duties fit. Many livestock agents started as veterinarians or ranchers. They had the authority to hunt down the rustlers and deal with disease outbreaks. All this fit with my characters.

And, yes, everything in the novel about their jobs and the livestock commission’s start is true to history, except for the names of real people.

My Impressions

“My entire life was about control. Somehow, feeling like I controlled every aspect of my life helped me feel safe.”

Karen Baney’s The Resourceful Stockman is a Christian romantic Western that details the courtship of two AZ veterinarians turned livestock inspectors during the late 1800s, when cattle were being driven to large stockyards to be sold and shipped further on. While this book is the fourth in a series about five brothers, it easily stands alone. Point of view is shared between the two vets, Deacon and Grady, and the women they fall for, Lillian and Justine.

I enjoyed seeing how the bond had developed between Deacon and Grady. Deacon can notice things most people don’t, which is both a blessing and a curse. He often offends people with his extreme obsessive-compulsive personality. “When I get upset, I must fix things. Like… Like the brand wall. Only worse. It makes little sense…” “I have to fix them…” “I can’t stop myself from doing it.” (My honey and I had a good discussion about whether Deacon with his special gift-big flaw could be on the spectrum.) Grady, whose goal in life is to bring his parents’ murderers to justice, is a good people-person to balance out Deacon. He needs Deacon’s ability to see things super clearly, and his loyalty.

Lillian is probably my fave character. She had endured so much, yet she is always looking out for others. She is beautiful, inside and out, even though she is struggling with her unfair past.

The action really picked up in the last one-third of the book. There were a few times that what I felt what the reader knew about the characters didn’t match what happened, in order to make the story flow a certain way.

It would be interesting to pick up the other books in the series and find out more about this family.

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

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blog Stops

Alena Mentink, September 28

Lakesidelivingsite, September 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 29

Texas Book-aholic, September 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 1

The Lit Lady, October 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 2

The Book Club Network, October 3

Connie’s History Classroom, October 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 5

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 6

Bizwings Book Blog, October 7

Cover Lover Book Review, October 8

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 9

Pause for Tales, October 9

For Him and My Family, October 10

Lily’s Book Reviews, October 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of The Resourceful Stockman!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/282a5/the-resourceful-stockman-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Enclave Publishers, Kindle, YA

The Looking-Glass Illusion by Sara Ella Review and Giveaway

October 1, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Looking-Glass Illusion

Author: Sara Ella

Genre: YA Retelling (or dystopian fantasy)

Release Date: September 19, 2023

Step through the looking glass. Slay the Jabberwock. Seek the King.

Alice is not prepared to face what awaits beyond the Tulgey Wood. When she and the rest of Team Heart enter the fourth and final Wonderland Trial, it’s up to her to lead them to victory. But this Trial is more than a game. If Alice and the others fail to defeat the Jabberwock and reveal the truth about Wonderland, more than points and fame will be lost.

Chess Shire never believed he’d make it this far. Now he’s stuck navigating a Trial he’s seen but doesn’t remember, all while searching for the brother he left behind. Not everything is as black and white as the game that shares his name. And if Alice discovers his deepest regret? Chess might just lose her too.

Apart, Chess and Alice scour the eight squares of the Heart Trial in search of memories, truth, and an Ivory King who seems more illusion than reality. Will they learn to lead together to face their greatest fears? Or will they remain pawns in a queen’s game, never truly seeing the Wonderland they’ve come to believe in?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Once upon a time, Sara Ella dreamed she would marry a prince and live in a castle. Now she spends her days homeschooling her three Jedi in training, braving the Arizona summers, and reminding her superhero husband that it’s almost Christmas (even if it’s only January). Sara is the author of the Unblemished trilogy and Coral, a reimagining of The Little Mermaid that focuses on mental health. Her latest journey into the world of The Wonderland Trials feels like coming full circle after working for Disney. Sara loves fairy tales and Jesus, and she believes “Happily Ever After is Never Far Away.”

More from Sara

“Step through the looking glass. Slay the Jabberwock. Seek the King.”

It’s my tagline for The Looking-Glass Illusion, but in truth, I had no idea what those words truly meant until I wrote the ending (and rewrote it several times).

I didn’t fully understand what the looking glass did or did not do—only that Alice had to step through it.

I didn’t know who or what the Jabberwock really was—only that Team Heart had to overcome it.

And I really couldn’t quite figure out this Ivory King character I had introduced in The Wonderland Trials—only that he was real, and that, somehow, the King would reveal himself in the end.

This is my process and it’s rather frustrating not to know what you’re up against. I wish I could outline and have all the answers ahead of time. I wish I knew every intricate detail about my stories. It would certainly make the writing life a lot easier. But I like to think the not-knowing part is God’s way of keeping me humble in all of this. Because I only discover the story and the true underlying theme of it all when He decides to reveal it to me.

So, in the name of revealing things, here are three truths God showed me through the process of writing The Looking-Glass Illusion.

Faith is not blind.

I think we can all remember the quote from The Santa Clause with Tim Allen that goes, “Seeing isn’t believing, believing is seeing.” It encompasses the idea that we don’t have to see in order to believe. And while I believe this is true, I also think if we say our faith is blind, we’ve missed the mark.

God gives us every tool we need to base our faith on the truth in the Bible. He doesn’t ask us to walk blindly. He’s given us sight in His Word! And while we don’t know or see everything yet, we do have concrete evidence to stand on that what the Bible says is real.

In The Looking-Glass Illusion, Alice steps through the looking glass not knowing what awaits her on the other side. She does know, however, that The Adventurer’s Almanac her sister gave her has never steered her wrong. It’s guided her along the way, and she holds fast to it as she steps into the unknown.

I didn’t know how this book would end. But I do know that time and time again, God has walked with me through every ending to every book I’ve written. When I hold fast to that truth, I can have faith and the courage to move forward rather than let fear get the better of me. And speaking of fear . . .

Fear is a liar.Anyone who’s listened to Christian radio has probably heard the popular song “Fear is a Liar” by Zach Williams. It’s a great song and I think we all need to hear it from time to time. Alice and her team have a multitude of fears to overcome. Chess Shire in particular has to overcome his fear of facing his past. I won’t spoil anything for those who haven’t read it, but the theme of overcoming fear is an overarching one in this duology. Perhaps I could have made it more complex and profound, but it’s really quite simple:Fear is a liar. And the only way to combat lies is to stand on the truth of what we know is real because . . .
The fairy tale is real.I am often asked why I choose to write fairy-tale-inspired stories. I like to turn back to my author tagline. While my logo and website design and even my bio have changed over the years, my tagline has remained the same:“Happily Ever After is Never Far Away”This is something I have held to from the onset of my author journey. While fairy tales may be but stories, our walk as Christians is in the living breathing fairy tale of God’s Word. Remember that quote from “The Princess Bride?”“Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles!”That line always reminds me of the Bible. Everything we love about fairy tales can be found within the pages of His #1 Best-Selling Book. And it all really happened! The fairy tale is real, and no matter what dragons (or Jabberwocks) we face in this life, we are promised happily ever after (dare I say, Wonderland?) in the next.****Thank you for taking the time to sit a while with me and for sticking with this series through its conclusion. Cheers, and happy reading, Wonders! The true Wonderland awaits!

Sincerely,

Sara Ella

My Impressions

“Trust is a fickle, feeble thing.”

Another great book by Sara Ella! While I was never a big fan of the nonsensense of the original Alice in Wonderland or Through the Looking-Glass, this young adult novel caught my attention. I would recommend it to any age, if old enough to read the original. I appreciate the hope presented and, even as it mirrors Lewis Carroll’s novel, Sara Ella crafts her retelling into a beautiful allegory that, though maze-like, advances a powerful story of faith. Reality vs. illusions, truth vs. lies. Team player vs. selfish ambition. I loved the fact that one didn’t have to be born a Wonder. “None of us is worthy. Being Wonder isn’t earned, it’s a gift.”

I anxiously flipped pages, hoping for our intrepid game players to be reunited and the kingdom to be restored to its rightful rulers. At many points, my mind found similarities to the old Pilgrim’s Progress, almost as if Through the Looking Glass is this generation’s version.

Go ahead. Enter the Wonderland Trials. But will you be the first to complete them? Be careful who you trust. Things are definitely not as they seem!

I cheered as I carefully perused the two maps, placed at the front. I was glad to see the glossary at the end, but wished it had been at the beginning as well.

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

Notable Quotables:

“I sense courage. And where there is courage, there is always hope.”

“given enough fear, people will do or believe most anything. They’ll behave in ways they never would have and believe a lie because it’s easier, more convenient, than the truth.”

Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent! Lasting, beautiful sense out of a beloved story of nonsense!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 30

Texas Book-aholic, October 1

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 2

Where Faith and Books Meet, October 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 3

Blogging With Carol, October 4

The Book Club Network, October 5

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, October 5

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 6

Live. Love. Read., October 7

Holly’s book Corner, October 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 9

Raining Butterfly Kisses, October 9

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 11

Simple Harvest Reads, October 12 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 13

Wishful Endings, October 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sara is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Barnes & Noble gift card, a $15 Starbucks gift card, and a hardcover copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/282a8/the-looking-glass-illusion-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, NetGalley, PB, Purchase, Revell

Lost and Found by Suzanne Woods Fisher Review

September 28, 2023September 28, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: Lost and Found

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Amish Romance

Released: September 2023

Trudy Yoder shares a passion for birding with Micah Weaver–and she has an even greater passion for Micah. Their friendship is finally turning romantic when Micah abruptly grows cold. Worse still, he wants to leave Stoney Ridge.

Micah Weaver thought he was over Trudy’s older sister. A year and a half ago, Shelley had broken his heart when she ran away from Stoney Ridge to pursue a singing career in Nashville. Then, out of the blue, she’s started to leave distressing phone messages for him.

When the bishop asks for volunteers to scout out a possible church relocation in Tennessee, Micah is the first to raise his hand. Despite scant details, he’s confident he can find Shelley. After all, his reputation as a field guide is based on finding birds that don’t want to be found.

What Micah doesn’t know is that what you’re looking for isn’t always what you find.

About the Author

Suzanne Woods Fisher loves stories worth telling about people worth remembering. With over a million copies of her book sold worldwide, this bestselling, award-winning author of more than 30 books is always on the lookout for the unsung hero with an untold story.

Readers are invited to stop by Suzanne’s website at: http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com

My Impressions

“We’re all on a spectrum of our own perceptions.” While this thought belongs to David Stoltzfus, the more I think about it, the more I think it sums up all the different characters in this wonderful book, Lost and Found, by Suzanne Woods Fisher.

Many families are leaving the Stoney Ridge district so their children don’t join more the more permissive Beachy Amish, which has recently moved into area. With church and school attendance down, Bishop David Stoltzfus has to decide how to handle to crisis for his Old Order district.

Just as Trudy believes she and Micah are becoming close, a voice from the past threatens to undo any developing relationship. And speaking of developing, a big development may change life for many. Can it be stopped?

So much to love about this story! Trudy, the patient, plain girl is about to snag her dream man. Or so it seems. Micah is finally coming to his senses, until… ( you’ll have to read to find out!) And the birds!! I had my bird app and Google open as I read and really enjoyed all the different bird references(wow!) I have always loved seeing how carefully and lovingly David Stoltzfus handles his flock in this series. I even wished I could get a glimpse or listen of loud, obnoxious Hank Lapp who brightens each book. Not so long ago, an author asked what book we’d like to live in. This one for me! To be able to interact with all these great characters and take a birding tour with Micah, besides!

I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads through NetGalley. Plus I bought my own paperback for the keeper shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“When you’re Amish, family was everything.”

“The future of this church hinges on how you lead everyone, how you hold it all together. You know how that old saying goes. Aller Mann fer sich un der Deiwel fer die Iwwriche. “Everyone for himself and the Devil takes the rest.”

“What the Englisch referred to as nature, like it was all happenstance, Jesus knew only as creation, a work of God. Even better, the Bible described the entire cosmos as a temple, full of the glory of God. An unending outdoor cathedral. That was why he loved his work. It felt like holy work.”

“Jesus noticed the sparrows. And the widow’s mite. And the lilies in the fields. He welcomed little children that the disciples shooed away. Nothing was too insignificant for Jesus. So why shouldn’t we take every concern to him?”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! I loved my time spent with the folk of Stoney Ridge! Another Fisher masterpiece!!

ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, NetGalley, Thomas Nelson

The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham Review

September 28, 2023September 28, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: The Letter Tree

Author: Rachel Fordham

Genre: Historical Romance

Release: October 31, 2023

Romeo and Juliet meets You’ve Got Mail in 1920s New York when hidden letters change everything for two lost souls and the community around them.

Seven years ago, a letter left inside a tree brought Laura Bradshaw an anonymous friend who helped her navigate the tragic loss of her mother and gave her something to look forward to despite the overbearing hand of her father. Life would be far bleaker, if not for her beloved Letter Tree, her dear friend, and her secret trips to the Buffalo Zoo. But even these rays of light are threatened when her father decides to play matchmaker in order to further his business goals.

When Isaac Campbell learns that his letter friend is destined to court another, he balks at the suggestion and begs her to break her rule of namelessness and meet him. Her words have endeared her to him, he’s ready to fall at her knees and beg her to choose him—that is until he sees her face. The stranger he’s become so attached to is not a stranger . . . but the only daughter of his family’s sworn enemy.

Can the grown children of feuding parents bridge the chasm between them? Or is the divide too deep—and too wide?

• Historical romance with a forbidden love story

• Stand-alone novel set in the 1920s

• Includes discussion questions for book clubs

About the Author

Rachel Fordham is the author of Where the Road Bends, A Lady in Attendance, A Life Once Dreamed, The Hope of Azure Springs, and Yours Truly, Thomas. Fans expect stories with heart and she delivers, diving deep into the human experience and tugging at reader emotions. She loves connecting with people, traveling to new places, and daydreaming about future projects that will have sigh-worthy endings and memorable characters. She is a busy mom, raising both biological and foster children (a cause she feels passionate about). She lives with her husband and children on an island in the state of Washington. Learn more at rachelfordham.com; Instagram: @rachel_fordham; Facebook: @rachelfordhamfans.

My Impressions

“the children of the feud.”

“She stepped closer to the maple that was, in many ways, more than a beloved tree. It was memories. It was comfort. It was hope.”

Rachel Fordham spins a Christian historical romance novel that is at once warm, engaging, entertaining, and filled with truth for today. Her latest novel, The Letter Tree, is a mashup of You’ve Got Mail and Romeo and Juliet with touches of Rapunzel and Cinderella mixed in.

I was a little confused at first as to where “B,” NY is. Eventually, we are told it is Buffalo, and we are there in the year 1917, when we see young Laura Bradshaw lose her mother in an accident. Ten years later, we see the effects the accident had on her father, Stanley Bradshaw, owner of a successful shoe company, and by extension, on Laura. Laura’s activities have become very restricted by her father, and she is nearly a recluse. Her one friend is a pen pal whose responses she finds in a branch of a tree at the zoo.

The magic of this story lies in the mystery of who Laura’s pen pal is; when we find out, and the two letter writers find out, what will they do with that knowledge? It could be the key to re-chart their lives or to doom them to destruction. They and their families.

There is just enough mystery, romance, truth, emotion, and suspense to make this a very enjoyable, feel-good read.

Obviously both Laura and Isaac’s characters have decisions to make that will cause or delay their growth. As the reader, we’re unsure which path each will choose.

My favorite secondary character, though, is Mrs. Guskin. The Bradshaw’s housekeeper is so much more to Laura. Her presence and advice is invaluable. She is the treasure map that helps the young people find gold in this story. How I loved her wise ways!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher via NetGalley. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“You are not a game piece. And you are not responsible for your father’s choices.”

“Even apart, we battle together.”

“The dream, like all dreams, faded, replaced by reality—and the truth was, she missed her friend already.”

“The children joined ranks with their parents, dutifully rallying for a cause they didn’t understand.”

“the avenue of if only led to nowhere but the land of aching hearts.”

“Hiding from the past wouldn’t change it.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! I love the easy flow of a Rachel Fordham novel, and this one is no exception.

ARC, Biblical Fiction, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Publishers, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Purchase

She’erah’s Legacy by Naomi Craig Review and Giveaway

September 26, 2023September 26, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: She’erah’s Legacy

Author: Naomi Craig

Genre: Historical fiction, Biblical fiction

Release Date: August 15, 2023

As tragedy ravages the camp, can She’erah step up and complete the outpost?

She’erahs is a woman trying to leave her mark in a man’s world. Her vision and ability surpasses her father’s, yet she remains second-in-command as they are tasked to build Pharaoh’s outposts in Canaan. She knows she is worthy of the task, but her clan is skeptical

The last place She’erah expects support is from her charioteer, but Lateef is the lone voice of encouragement. His integrity and steadfastness is a plumb-line in She’erah’s life and she can no longer deny her growing feelings for him.

Acts of sabotage threaten the construction and the shaky foundation of She’erah’s pride. It’s up to She’erah to break generations of rivalry, distrust, and jealousy—if she can learn to rely on the strengths and abilities of those around her to help.

Will she learn to trust God and others before her life’s legacy comes crumbling down around her?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Author of Biblical fiction, avid reader, pastor’s wife, Naomi loves reading the Bible and imagining how things were at the time. When she’s not serving in various areas at church, trying to stay on top of mountains of dishes or convincing her rescue dog, Freeway, to be cute on command for Instagram reels, you’ll most likely find her enjoying a good book and a cup of coffee. Naomi co-hosts #BehindTheStory with Naomi and Lisa, an author interview show on YouTube and your podcast platform of choice.

More from Naomi

A woman architect in ancient times?

She’erah’s family is mentioned in five verses in 1 Chronicles 7:20- 24. In this brief detour from the list of genealogy, we learn some interesting facts.

She’erah is the granddaughter of Joseph (yes that Joseph with the coat of many colors, vizier to Pharaoh)

Two of her brothers get themselves killed for cattle rustling.

Her father, Ephraim, goes into deep mourning for his sons.

There is a late-in-life baby (as a result of dad’s mourning)

and She’erah built Lower and Upper Beth Horon and Uzzen She’erah.

Then we are right back to the begats.

Wait, hold on. That’s all we get? What is the story behind her building these towns (two of which are still standing today)? What was the reaction of those around her?

Something I find helpful to remember is that when you know about someone’s family, you in a way know the person. With her grandfather being Joseph, suddenly we have opened a whole new world of what we know. She’erah and the clan would have had access to all of Egypt’s knowledge and resources. Where she still might have gotten backlash from her more Hebrew clan, Egyptian women had more independence, managing their husband’s estates, or even their own.

We also know the generational legacy that was passed down of the younger sibling being favored above the older. Ephraim over Manasseh, Joseph over his ten elder brothers, Jacob over Esau, Rachel over Leah, Isaac over Ishmael. I’m sure sibling rivalry could have been present.

So now we can see She’erah’s picture a little more clearly. A brilliantly minded woman determined to prove herself and her abilities. Raised in Egyptian courts, yet also Hebrew. A strange mix of cultures and dynamics that shape She’erah and nurture her gifts.

She’erah’s legacy is not only the towns she builds for generations to come, but also how she starts the work of unearthing the deep-seated rivalry that is entrenched in her family.

I pray you’ll enjoy She’erah’s adventures, as she learns to trust the Lord and those around her.

Best Regards

Naomi

My Impressions

“Wasn’t that just like Elohim? A juxtaposition of strength and gentleness, judgement and compassion, that compelled His people to Him.”

A woman builder in the time of the patriarchs? (I’d never noticed!) Women are mentioned rarely in Biblical genealogies, but when they are, you can be sure they were significant. While there is only one verse in the Bible that mentions She’erah, Naomi Craig does a masterful job of imagining what her life may have been like in her novel, She’erah’s Legacy.

I loved how Craig shows us that family issues that began with Esau and Jacob kept repeating through the generations. How sad that this is so often true even in today’s world, and what consequences it brings to Ephraim’s family as well. Now I am rewriting the story in my head, what-“ifing”: the story might have gone so differently if Manasseh and Ephraim had a better relationship.

She’erah has a highly intelligent mind and a very exacting plan for the towns she builds. Unfortunately, she fails to remember that just as she excels in this area, she equally needs her team who have strengths she doesn’t, and no one needs a micromanager.

Equality. Quite the buzz word all around in this book. Between male and female. Between siblings. Between workers. Between free and slaves. She’erah thinks she practices equality, and does so admirably in some instances. Like most of us, she has a few blind spots that only the Lord can smooth out. Sometimes He uses Lateef, sometimes her brother, but even sometimes those like Aleph who are in opposition against her.

So many scenes to love in this book! One of my faves is when She’erah discovers that she, in fact, decides to make Elohim her personal God. “Speak to me. Let the truth of Your promises penetrate my being. You have been the God of my family, but this day I choose You as my God. “

This novel has it all. Romance, family issues, work issues, equality, psychology, drama and intrigue, plus a ton of Biblical TRUTH for living !

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

Notable Quotables:

“I would ask nothing from you but that you live in wisdom and integrity. That your work ethic is as strong as your wills.”

“The mind doesn’t have any bearing over who the heart will choose.”…“The heart is the plumb line that squares you up to the one your soul chooses, not the mind.”

“He was a plumb line holding her straight and true.”

“Anything the Lord asks of you will have opposition. But if He is in it, all the pain and enduring that happens before you see it come to fruition is put there to reach His end.”

“Look up…Elohim is not dethroned because you took your eyes off Him.”

“The family of Joseph does not succumb to trials.” “When we are hindered, we look up and trust that Elohim is still working His plan. Even if it means we don’t see the results for years upon years.”

“You are still learning something. Sometimes Elohim uses our messed-up areas to show us we need to rely on His greater plans.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! Naomi Craig as an author who recently caught my attention. Now she is one I am trying to catch up with and follow closely!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 28

Texas Book-aholic, September 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 30

The Book Club Network, October 1

Connie’s History Classroom, October 2

Artistic Nobody, October 3 (Author Interview)

The Book Nook, October 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 5

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 6 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, October 7

Simple Harvest Reads, October 8 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, October 8

By The Book, October 9 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, October 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Naomi is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/282a4/she-erah-s-legacy-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, New-to-Me Author

The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch by Kurt Brouwer Review and Giveaway

September 21, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch

Author: Kurt Brouwer

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: June 15, 2023

He was the Beloved Disciple…
…and he would be the last.
The burden to tell the whole story now rests on his shoulders.

He was the Beloved Disciple, chosen by Jesus and destined to be the last to carry the divine message. Devastated by the loss of his adopted mother Mary, John has no time to mourn. The streets of Jerusalem teem with danger, as Roman rulers engage in fierce conflict with Jewish rebels, all vying for control.

While his allegiance lies with his people, John is at odds with the rebels’ passion for earthly power. His quest is to preserve and share the legacy of Jesus.

Will he succeed in spreading the gospel?

Or has he waited too long?

As Jerusalem descends into chaos, John escapes to Antioch. He finds rest, renewal, and purpose among the devoted Christians there and begins sharing his account of the life and teachings of Christ.

Yet even within this refuge, the old conflicts descend on Antioch too, and the dangers ignited in Jerusalem draw near.

Set against a backdrop of actual events, The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch is the second novel in a series woven from the Bible and Christian history.

Join John as he embarks on an extraordinary journey, discovering the true essence of faith, love, and divine purpose.

Your heart will embrace The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch because John’s story is the story of our hope and promise.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kurt Brouweris a Christian and a member of a vibrant Christian church in Hawaii. He also loves to write.

A few years back, Kurt did a study at his church on the Apostle John. If you’ve ever been obsessed by anything, you’ll understand that Kurt couldn’t stop researching, digging, diving into the life of John and other first century Christians. The result is a series of Christian historical novels.

The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem was published on Amazon in November 2022. It has been in the top five for Inspirational Religious Fiction and Religious Historical Fiction in 2023.

More from Kurt

Right now I’m living in two worlds: writing and researching the first century world of the early Christians while also tackling the technical demands of self-publishing and online book promotion in the 21st century.

LIVING IN TWO DIFFERENT WORLDS

Writing a book and publishing it have become almost polar opposites, at least for me. Research and writing require a focus on history, places, people, and then the work of creating a written narrative that brings all these to life. With my books, I focus on the first century Biblical world of John, the disciple of Christ. So I have to study, imagine, and then describe the life of first century Christians like John, Timothy, Priscilla and many more.

But publishing has to be done in the modern world of software, online apps, book cover graphic design, and navigating sites like Amazon.com. I actually enjoy this, but I definitely find it frustrating too.

GRAPHIC DESIGN FOR BOOK TWO

For example, I had my book cover designer create a graphic I wanted to use as a part of the book detail page on Amazon. But when I go through the step-by-step instructions on Amazon, I get an error message. Eventually, I’ll figure it out, but there’s a steep learning curve in the publishing and promotion side of writing. Here is the design. It may not be on Amazon yet, but you can see it now.

This is the description for book two:

He was the Beloved Disciple…
…and he would be the last.
The burden to tell the whole story now rests on his shoulders.

While his allegiance lies with his people, John is at odds with the rebels’ passion for earthly power. His quest is to preserve and share the legacy of Jesus.

Will he succeed in spreading the gospel?

Or has he waited too long?

As Jerusalem descends into chaos, John escapes to Antioch. He finds rest, renewal, and purpose among the devoted Christians there and begins sharing his account of the life and teachings of Christ.

Yet even within this refuge, the old conflicts descend on Antioch too, and the dangers ignited in Jerusalem draw near.

Set against a backdrop of actual events, The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch is the second novel in a series woven from the Bible and Christian history.

Join John as he embarks on an extraordinary journey, discovering the true essence of faith, love, and divine purpose.

Your heart will embrace The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch because John’s story is the story of our hope and promise.

But now I’m heading back to what I really love, writing and research. I’m about half way through with the first draft of book three in the series. The title will be, The Last Disciple: Exile to Ephesus.

Yours in Christ, Kurt

My Impressions

“Thank you, Lord. Your love and that of my brothers, Symeon and Emmaus, brought me out of my grief and back to my senses. To do what, I know not. Yet all is well with my soul, for I know my name is written in the Book of Life. Written in heaven. Beyond that, I just put my faith in you. Your will be done.”

So prays John, as he struggles to decide what purpose God has for him at the start of The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch. Escape to Antioch is book 2 in a series of 4 books about the disciple John. The title caught my attention and made me want to read this exciting book by Kurt Brouwer. It stands on its own, although it does end in a cliff-hanger.

Following the death of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who is his adopted mother, John decides to leave Jerusalem and minister to the church in Antioch. He takes his nephew, Emmaus, with him. The two share many harrowing experiences as they visit relatives and church leaders on their way, avoiding both the zealot Jews and the war-ready Romans.

Brouwer has done a lot of Biblical and historical research. I liked how he shows the Christians, John in particular, are changed into more peaceable people because of Jesus’s message and love. The Gospel is clearly presented and many Scripture quotes are included, many as memories of what Jesus said. I did not care for the inference that Mary, after her death, was capable of telling John what to do. I felt like that should have been, at best, Mary’s memory encouraging John to follow Jesus. She seemed, to me, to get more importance than I believe she deserves Scripturally.

I did like all the subterfuge and scheming portrayed in the book. With having so much going on military-wise, whether it all happened the way Brouwer imagines, it sure makes for a good story!

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

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great! I think I’ll have to get books 3 and 4! I’ve learned a lot!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 23

Christina’s Corner, September 24

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 25

Texas Book-aholic, September 26

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 27

The Lit Lady, September 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 28

Lights in a Dark World, September 29

Cover Lover Book Review, September 30

Lily’s Book Reviews, October 1

Artistic Nobody, October 2 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, October 2

Connie’s History Classroom, October 3

The Book Club Network, October 4

She Lives To Read, October 5

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Kurt is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/27fb8/the-last-disciple-escape-to-antioch-celebration-tour-giveaway

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He Should Have Told The Bees by Amanda Cox Review

September 19, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: He Should Have Told the Bees

Author: Amanda Cox

Release: August 2023

Genre: Christian Contemporary, Women’s Fiction

Uncovering long-held family secrets may sting at first–but the result can be sweeter than honey.

Beekeeper Beckett Walsh is living her dream, working alongside her father in their apiary, until his untimely death sends her world into a tailspin. She suddenly finds she must deal with a new part owner of the family business–one who is looking to sell the property. Beck cannot fathom why her father would put her into the position to lose everything they built together.

When Callie Peterson is named in the trust of a man she’s never heard of, she’s not sure what to do. Her fledgling business has just taken wing and her mother has reentered her life asking for help getting into rehab for her lifelong substance abuse issues, making Callie’s financial situation rather . . . precarious. She’s sure she has no right to someone else’s farm, but the money from the sale could solve her problems and give her the stability she’s always craved.

As these two women navigate their present conundrum, they will discover a complex and entangled past full of secrets–and the potential for a brighter future for both of them.

Get your copy at link below!

About the Author

Before becoming a stay-at-home parent, Amanda Cox spent her time counseling children, families, and individuals through life’s challenging moments. Now she uses those same skills to develop layered characters and stories, bringing them on a journey of hope and healing. A journey she hopes her readers experience in their own lives as they read.

A few of her favorite things are the sanctuary of the great outdoors, the feeling of pen on paper, the sound of her children’s laughter, and exploring new places with her husband of 18 years. (Oh, let’s not forget good fiction and good coffee. She’s addicted to both.) You can stay connected with her latest writing updates at http://www.amandacoxwrites.com. You can find her on social media by searching Amanda Cox Writes

To get a free short story featuring characters from The Edge of Belonging visit: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/fuj7mlfd83

My Impressions

“He’s gone. He’s not coming back. It’s just me now.”

Two young women, strangers and alone in the world, find themselves thrust into each others’ lives in an irrevocable way. Finding their common denominator brings its own crisis, as each would have given her eye teeth for what she believes the other had. Can the young women with so little in common, work together to forge a better future than the pasts they endured? Will they allow others around them into the deepest parts of their hearts and lives, or will they continue as they were, totally alone, totally “safe”?

With He Should Have Told the Bees, Amanda Cox has penned a poignant, angsty, yet faith-endowed story that will stay with me for a long time after the last page swipe. My heart hurts. Yours might, too, and you might need Kleenex. This is really the story of two grown-up children.

Both Callie and Beck have become young adults, but their troubled backgrounds keep their emotional growth stunted. Beck hides out on her farm, continuing to raise her father’s beloved bees, and Callie is trying to get her own small business going when the past comes back in physical form.

I was happy to see that Cox mentions therapy a lot in the book. Some issues are too deeply ingrained for a person to find their way out alone. I was also happy to see how well she describes panic attacks (people that have never had one, often don’t understand the seriousness of one.) And these are serious! I wanted to cry for these little girls grown up so many times.

But… there are many people who are knocking on their heart’s door, trying to get in to offer support, comfort, and a listening ear, if not wisdom. Will either or both girls open their hearts’ door, or had they slammed them too tight years ago?

My runaway fave secondary character is Katya or Fern. Because of her imagination. Her love for the bees. Her quick “adoption” of Beck, whether Beck wanted claimed or not!!

I highly recommend this book. I received a copy from Revell Reads. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“It’s hard to know the difference between tough love and giving up on someone.”

“…beauty comes from the light. Dust doesn’t change itself. The light does that.”

“Healing is like an onion. It might feel like you’re going in circles, but you’re actually discovering new layers.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent!! So heart-rending!! But because of God… there is Hope!!

ARC, Bethany House, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, NetGalley, Purchase

The Secrets Beneath by Kimberley Woodhouse Review and Giveaway

September 15, 2023September 16, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: The Secrets Beneath

Series: Treasures of the Earth, Bk 1

Author: Kimberley Woodhouse

Genre: Historical Romance

Some secrets can only stay buried for so long. . . .

Anna Lakeman has spent her life working alongside her paleontologist father, drawing intricate sketches at every dig. When they find dinosaur bones near their home in Wyoming Territory, they’re given the opportunity of a lifetime and are swiftly caught up in the competitive era of the Bone Wars. But after her father becomes sick and Joshua Ziegler, an old beau, returns for the summer, Anna’s world is upended, and the practical, orderly life she has made for herself shatters.

Medical student Joshua Ziegler left his hometown to forget Anna, the one woman he truly loved and deeply hurt. But when he returns, time hasn’t erased the feelings they’ve always had for each other. After Joshua’s nephew goes missing–just like his sister did years ago–and Anna’s job is threatened, tensions mount and dangerous secrets are unearthed.

“Kim has long been a favorite author of mine, and her book The Secrets Beneath is no exception. This book is full of intrigue and adventure, twists and turns.”–TRACIE PETERSON, USA Today bestselling author

Pre-order from Baker Book House and receive the book at 40% off, plus two magnets and a signed book plate!

https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/516377

About the Author

Kimberley Woodhouse is the best-selling and award-winning author of more than two dozen books. She is a wife, mother, author, and musician with a quick wit and positive outlook despite difficult circumstances. A popular speaker, she’s shared at more than 2,000 venues across the country. Kimberley and her family’s story have garnered national media attention for many years including ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Montel Williams Show, Discovery Health channel’s Mystery ER, The Hour of Power, The Harvest Show, and over 1,000 other TV appearances and radio interviews. She lives and writes in the Poconos with her husband of thirty years. kimberleywoodhouse.com

Find Kim on twitter and facebook:

twitter.com/kimwoodhouse

author fan page Kimberley Woodhouse

My Impressions

“The garden—his garden—was alive with color today, while the inside of him was black as death.” With this ominous opening sentence, I could see The Secrets Beneath would be quite different from other historical fiction books Kimberley Woodhouse has written.

While Woodhouse’s books are on my “buy first, ask about content later,” list, Woodhouse has elevated her historicals to include psychological suspense, channeling Jaime Jo Wright or Janyre Tromp. This may be one of my best reads of 2023!

I had never heard of the Bone Wars of 1877-1892. I actually looked them up. Woodhouse meticulously researches these, and weaves a beautiful, intricate story of a Wyoming archaeologist, Peter Lakeman, and his daughter, Anna, an aspiring archaeologist. Anna has a few regrets about young men from years ago that come back to play important roles in her present life. I stayed up way too late to finish this book, as the mystery and romance held me enthralled and unable to escape.

I loved Anna’s father for his wisdom, quiet observations, and clear assessments of situations as well as parental love for his daughter. His example shows how a child will later better understand the one True Father. When one has a father more like the neighboring Julian Walker has, comprehending the love of a good Father can be very difficult.

Every chapter starts with a quote from Earl Douglass. Historical notes are always a pleasure to read, separating fact from fiction. I love the well-woven spiritual truths that are hidden within the book, as well.

Because of all the emotions evoked, the surprises, and the choices characters make, I would highly recommend The Secrets Beneath for a book club.

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

Notable Quotables:

“But if people could see him differently . . . that would help him to be a better person.”

“If only faith and science could be reconciled. Why couldn’t the two come together?”

“Isn’t it dangerous to believe and rely on love changing a person here on this earth?” Dad shook his head. “The only love that can truly change anything or anyone is God’s love. His is supernatural. Our love here on earth fails. It falters. It isn’t enough. We shouldn’t love someone based on the idea that they will change. That’s wrong thinking.”

“You don’t need kindness—although that’s nice isn’t it? You don’t even need a friend. But you do need to see God’s love. He’s the only one who can restore you.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent!! Ready for book 2!! (Yesterday)☺️

Giveaway

For those who leave a comment on this post between today, September 16, and Tuesday, September 26, I will put your name in a hat and draw one winner to receive a paperback copy of Kimberley’s book, The Secrets Beneath. Be sure to include your email so I can contact you if you win!

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, New-to-Me Author

Preacher on the Run by Jayna Baas Review and Giveaway

September 13, 2023 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Preacher on the Run: The Truth Will Hold Its Own

Author: Jayna Baas

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: April 12, 2020

STANDING FOR TRUTH COULD COST HIM HIS FREEDOM. FIGHTING FOR FREEDOM COULD COST HIM HIS LIFE.

It’s 1771, and North Carolina is at war. On one side stands the power of the Crown. On the other side stands a dangerous freedom of conscience.

Former circuit rider Robert Boothe has spent the last four years leading the tyrant-hating Regulators against North Carolina’s corrupt British government. All he wants is a safe place for his little Baptist church to worship God.

But when Colonel Charles Drake arrives in town, Robert becomes a target. The Church of England wants him to shut up. The governor wants him dead.

Now Robert’s church and family are caught in the crossfire. And that safe place is farther and farther away.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Jayna Baas, pronounced as in “baa, baa, black sheep,” is the author of Preacher on the Run and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and The Christian PEN: Proofreaders and Editors Network. She lives in northern Michigan with a great family of real people and the family of pretend people who live in her head. (Yes, she does know her characters are not real. No, she does not want you to tell them she said so.) Although she enjoys multiple genres, her favorite story is this: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Learn more and sign up for a free short story at http://www.booksbyjayna.com.

More from Jayna

Freedom is risky. If people are free to make up their own minds, they might discover they’ve been lied to. They might discover the truth and then act on it, and they just might turn the world upside down.

That’s a story that’s been happening ever since Christ freed his first followers from the law of sin and death. They shared that freedom all over their world, and the hierarchy didn’t like it, from the Pharisees on up to Nero. It’s a story that happens over and over again. And it happened in eighteenth-century North Carolina.

Almost all of the Thirteen Colonies had an official state-sanctioned church that could banish, imprison, or even execute those who did not conform. The most common “state church” in the southern colonies was the Church of England, and that’s what we find in North Carolina at the time of Preacher on the Run.

Imagine you’re a dissenter preacher in this time and place. Up the street is the local vestry, which you’re taxed to support, while you’ve been threatened with jail for preaching without a license. One of your church members is about to be dispossessed for not paying taxes—taxes he can’t afford and has probably already paid once. No one dares go to court; everyone knows the courts are nests of extortion, and you could be charged with felony if you stay at a meeting after an official deems it seditious.

Now the governor’s new agent comes to town—a man who is hungry for power, a man who knows you’re a leader not only in your congregation but also in the grassroots resistance that is rising against the government’s corruption. To him, your belief that people can go to God directly through faith in Christ without the state church is blasphemous. And your belief that all men are on equal footing before God and the law is unthinkably dangerous.

What would you do?

This is a scenario that set my story-loving imagination on fire. This is the story of Preacher on the Run. It’s the story of a spark that ignited and spread throughout the colonies until it was a blaze of revolution—not the rejection of authority but the restoration of rightful authority. It’s the story of countless men and women who faced persecution on American soil for the sake of truth and freedom. Truth never needs to be forced on others, because it can never truly be defeated. And only where there is freedom can truth flourish and spread and turn the world upside down. Because, as Robert Boothe says in Preacher on the Run, the truth will hold its own.

This is his story, and ours.

My Impressions

“He says being brave isn’t always feeling brave. Sometimes it’s just doing brave things.” “He doesn’t always feel brave either, Susanna. But he still does brave things because he knows God is with him.” “Just like God is with us.”

It’s easy to forget that our country, while supposedly founded on the basis of religious freedom, also often followed in the footsteps of the continent that sent settlers here. Religious persecution and the marriage of church and state existed in many of the early colonies. With many thanks to Jayna Baas, who reminds us of this fact in her novel, Preacher on the Run.

Most of the story takes places in North Carolina, starting in 1767. We meet Pastor Robert Boothe, his family, and their church in the town of Ayen Ford. When Col. Drake, a new agent of Gov. Tryon arrives, persecution of Boothe, his church, and the Regulators(so called because they wanted to hold the government responsible for injustices) begins in earnest.

There are many compelling figures in this story. So many relationships that produce growth in each other, yet by painful rubbing. Three of these I especially appreciated were Rob Boothe and Alec, and Mitchell and Hank, and Mitchell and Rob. Underneath it all, though, was the willingness to surrender to God’s prompting, or the common denominator to fight against God’s leading.

The gospel is clearly shared and many beliefs are explained well and naturally due to the religious and political conflict present. There is a lot of suspenseful action. Topics like trusting God (completely), slavery, salvation, Holy Spirit, pride, and listening to God’s voice are discussed. I would have liked to have seen a more balanced look at the Native Americans. There were a few times I laughed out loud at a character’s antics.

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotable:

“Just take things one day at a time.” “I don’t have time for only one day at a time.” “That’s the only way they come,” Mitchell said. “Let God give you a little grace, all right? He loves doing that more than we give Him credit for.”