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The Heirs Beloved by Rhonda Dragomir Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Heir’s Beloved by Rhonda Dragomir, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Book Details

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Heir’s Beloved by Rhonda Dragomir, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Book Details

Title: The Heir’s Beloved
Series: The Ravenwood Chronicles #1
Author: Rhonda Dragomir
Publisher: Dragomir Group Publishing
Release Date: September 30, 2026
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Torn from his mother’s arms after a deadly fire and spirited away to Scotland, Liam’s past refuses to remain buried. On his twenty-fifth birthday, he learns he is the rightful Duke of Ravenwood. His ancestral English estate is now ruled by the usurper who murdered his family in the fire and stole his inheritance.

The knight’s plan to reclaim Ravenwood and exact revenge hinges on secrecy—but a chance meeting with a courageous, kindhearted lass threatens to unravel everything. Ella would risk anything to protect a ragged band of orphaned children, and when her violet-eyed beauty draws the villain’s lecherous attention, Liam is forced to choose. Will he risk discovery and death to save the woman who has captured his heart? Or will saving Ella require him to surrender his thirst for vengeance and embrace God’s higher calling?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | RhondaDragomir.com | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Also Available

( Don’t miss this debut novel by Dragomir. I absolutely loved it!!)

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Get to Know the Author

Rhonda Dragomir is an award-winning novelist and multimedia creative who treasures her fairy tale life in Central Kentucky. She insists her home is her castle, even if her prince refuses to dig a moat. Known for richly researched historical fiction, she weaves romance, faith, and redemption into the lives of unforgettable characters. Her newest novel, The Heir’s Beloved, launches The Ravenwood Chronicles, an Elizabethan historical romance series set along the Anglo-Scottish border.

Barbour Publishing released her award-winning debut novel, When the Flames Ravaged, in March 2024. Her work has also appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul®, Guideposts, and other anthologies and periodicals. Bible studies she co-authored are used by more than 10,000 women each week around the world. Rhonda’s writing has earned awards in both fiction and nonfiction, including being named 2019 Writer of the Year by Serious Writer, Inc. She was also a finalist in ACFW’s Genesis Contest for historical romance in both 2020 and 2022. Learn more about Rhonda at rhondadragomir.com.

My Impressions

“What do the problems of an English duchy have to do with a Scotsman like me?” ““Ye’re nae a Scot.”

What a 25th birthday present for Liam! So begins his journey to retake his rightful position as an English duke in The Heir’s Beloved by Rhonda Dragomir. I don’t usually read medieval novels. The whole concept of medieval novels has always been a turn-off for me, but Dragomir may have single-handedly opened my mind to a new genre! (Win for both of us!)

Strong and braw, and a trained warrior, Liam begins to understand his legacy and the loss to himself personally and the  kingdom. But how can he defeat an evil usurper with his large contingent of malevolent minions? Bent on revenge for grievous wrongs done him and his family, will Liam look to his own understanding in the end or listen to God’s voice? 

One of Liam’s best allies is a woman. And I don’t refer to the lady he falls in love with, but the one who has loved him for a lifetime. Wheest, but Betha is a complicated character. Fiercely loyal, with a vocabulary to embarrass a sailor, she can scheme and plan with the best. Will her advice prove true? Or will her prickly character drive off the very prize Liam most wants to win? 

I loved Ella, but does she come with baggage. Her baggage has names, empty tummies and abused souls. Will Ella be able to continue to support her beloved orphan friends if she doesn’t acquiesce to the hated acting duke? How long before Ella realizes she may have sold her soul to the devil?

My fave character is John. He is meekness and power wrapped together in kindness and a thirst for the right. What have those qualities cost him n the past, and will helping Liam cost him more than the evil duke has already extracted? 

Bottom line, I loved this book. If you like historical fiction at all, I urge you to give it a try. You can turn to the glossary in the back for help with unfamiliar Scottish or old English terms, or Google them. Enjoy Elizabethan England with its religious upheaval, castles, feuding, and pageantry! 

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

Notable Quotables:

“Nobility is in someone’s soul, not their parentage.”

“When strength is nearly gone, the mind is the best weapon.”

“Honor was a virtue. But it might become a weakness.”

“God alone is judge. When He renders a verdict, He ensures justice is meted out. When self-appointed men judge, it often devolves into revenge. Retribution then arises from the heart of man, not the will of God.”

“…effective prayer is not a matter of mumbling meaningless words you’ve memorized. It’s not mere words from the lips God hears, but the prayers of the heart. Speak to Him, and He will listen.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior

Dragomir has convinced me I’m missing out on a whole sub-genre I’ve been snubbing for years! I would encourage any historical fiction lovers to read this book!

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Wanna Win? (Tour Giveaway)

(3) winners will each receive a print copy of The Heir’s Beloved and When the Flames Ravaged, plus a $15 Amazon card!

Fine Print… just because…

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 29, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 6, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN 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!

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Launch Team, Love Inspired, PB, Purchase

Murders in the Marquee by Dana Mentink Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Murders in the Marquee

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Cozy Mystery

Release Date: September 1, 2026

In this witty historical murder mystery set in a San Francisco hotel, an unlikely trio of amateur sleuths must uncover a killer before another guest checks out for good.

In 1905, the Grand Mallard Marquee is well known for its iconic style, as well as its daily duck parade. For Saul Niffler, a reformed jewel thief, working at the luxurious hotel offers a much-needed second chance. Staying out of trouble and in gainful employment is essential. Which makes seeing a body plummet from a penthouse window extra complicated.

Except…did he see it? There’s no body to be found, and Saul knows he should concentrate on his new duties as “Duck Commandant” rather than meddle. If only Kitty Rossi, a persistent young guest yearning to be a Pinkerton detective, would leave well enough alone. Kitty has already roped in Henry, the elevator man, to investigate suspicious goings-on around the hotel. And against his better judgment, Saul feels compelled to join them.

Between the mystery of Saul’s missing predecessor and a grisly discovery in a drain, all signs point to murder most fowl. And with a cold-blooded killer roaming the Marquee’s lavish corridors, keeping his job may be the least of Saul’s problems…

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and the recipient of a Holt Medallion for excellence in mystery/suspense. She was honored to receive the Author of the Year award from West Coast Christian Writers. A California native, she’s written over sixty titles for the general and Christian markets in the suspense, lighthearted romance, and mystery genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense and Revell.

More from Dana

Ice cream or pie? Cake or cookies? Beach or mountains? The answer for me is always, “Yes!” I’m a restless soul, I suppose, but I’ve never been able to choose one delight over the other. I’m that way with writing too. I started my career in mystery and sidestepped to suspense. It’d be so much easier to stick with one genre but no. Dana Mentink has to write both, it seems. I attended a Harlequin anniversary celebration in Toronto a couple of years ago and listened to the editors discuss their futures wishes. Tina James mentioned she’d like to see an “Only Murders in the Building” type book or maybe a historical mystery. Whammo! The idea hit me like a train. What about both? An Only Murders in the Building/Downton Abbey type mashup? The series idea was born. Lots of twists and turns? Check. Humor? Check? An unlikely crime solving trio? You bet! I’m truly thrilled to have been allowed to step back into mystery land. I hope you’ll enjoy the results!

My Impressions

“Murder, mayhem, and mallards. Who could conceive of such a thing?”

Only Dana Mentink, on a quest to develop a zany cozy mystery, Murders in the Marquee! Imagine my surprise when I discovered that the imaginary Grand Mallard Marquee Hotel in San Francisco is actually patterned to a degree after a famous hotel in another part of the country! I was already prepared to laugh by the ridiculousness of the prestigious 1905 San Francisco hotel’s name. And a duck parade through the lobby twice a day? Complete with a duck commander? 

But this is where things get a little hairy. The prominent hotel’s duck commander has disappeared.  The hotel manager, desperate to impress one particular guest he believes to be scouting city hotels for a famous literary guest, well, he doesn’t read Saul Niffler’s resume very well. “Shady Saul” as I might refer to him finds himself the bewildered leader of 12 prized ducks, about which he knows nothing. 

As Saul acquaints himself with his duties via journals left behind, he is amazed to find himself in partnership with a famous tenor’s young adult daughter, Kitty,  and the young elevator man, Henry.  “‘You were an eyewitness, Saul.’ The paleness of his face blanched to bone white. ‘An eyewitness to what?’ ‘That’s exactly what Henry and I want to know.’ She skewered him with her hardest detective stare. ‘And I’m not leaving here until you come clean.’” Oy, vey. Kitty wants to be a Pinkerton, not a socialite. Henry dreams of becoming a juggler, performing in shows. Saul, in his 30s, checkered past, just wants to keep his past hidden, his nose clean, and be able to woo his estranged wife back. 

This book had me in stitches with the unlikely trio’s escapades, attempts to unmask the visitor who isn’t all he claims, and the wealthy widow who is behaving oddly. Could there actually have been a murder at the hotel, and a cover-up to boot? 

Kitty is young, used to getting her own way because of her wealth, and trying out her wings as much as possible. She is a darling, but quite excitable and easily swayed from one theory to the next.  

Henry is also young, has a secret, and needs a bit of guidance. Plus, he may be sweet on a forbidden character. 

And now, somehow Saul is not only leading the duck parade but this impossible group as they secretly defy given instructions and work hard to prove what none of them saw. 

Great twists and use of side characters! 

Uncle Joe is one of my fave characters. 

If you like historic, twisty cozy mysteries, I highly recommend Murders in the Marquee. I am ready for book 2! 

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

Notable Quotables:

“A woman reasons by telegraph, and a man’s stage-coach reasoning cannot keep pace with hers,”– Saul’s paraphrase of quote by Dr. Mary Walker

“You did bad things, Saul. We all have. God forgives,” Henry said. “He forgives. You’re gonna mess up and do more bad things still, but only He can tell how you’re being polished up.”

“The chaplain…insisted that God was doing a new thing to Saul’s crusty, battered soul. With ducks? That was a novel way to go about it.”

“Opera singers are like roosters. They each believe there’s only room enough for one in the flock.” 

“He heard the voice of the tiny chaplain. God’s doing a new thing in you, Saul. A new thing? It sure felt like he was about to step in a boiling vat of trouble and that was nothing new at all.”

“Choices. That was all she really wanted, to be able to make them for herself.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! I love cozies and this had all the elements to waddle its way right into my heart!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 29

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 29

Books Less Travelled , September 30

She Lives To Read, September 30

Melissa’s Bookshelf, October 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 1

Texas Book-aholic, October 2

Wishful Endings, October 2

For Him and My Family, October 3

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 3

Lily’s Corner, October 4

Blogging With Carol, October 4

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 5

Leslie’s Library Escape, October 6

Life of Literature , October 6

Connie’s History Classroom, October 7

Mary Hake, October 7

Blossoms and Blessings, October 8

Holly’s Book Corner, October 9

Pause for Tales, October 9

Cover Lover Book Review, October 10

Life on Chickadee Lane, October 11

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 12

Lights in a Dark World, October 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $100 Amazon Gift Card and a signed 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://gleam.io/hz50N/murders-in-the-marquee-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, New-to-Me Author, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

The Marquess’s Masked Archer by Abbey Downey Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Marquess’s Masked Archer

Author: Abbey Downey

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 15, 2026

A hidden identity. A relentless marquess. And a summer where love could expose everything.

When Cleveland society parades debutante Sylvie Bryce before another string of unsuitable suitors, she secretly claims the one thing no one can arrange for her—a life of her own. Hidden beneath a green velvet hood and emerald mask, she becomes the mysterious Lady Robin, a daring trick-shot archer who captivates the crowds at Cedar Point resort. It’s the one place where Sylvie answers to no one. The last thing she needs is a charming English marquess threatening to unravel everything she has worked so hard to build.

Miles Wentworth didn’t come to Ohio looking for love. He came to study insects, escape the shadow of a devastating scandal, and prove that a man can build a life on his own terms. But a chance encounter with a boldly independent woman—first in a glittering ballroom, and then behind the mask of a legendary archer—upends every carefully laid plan. Determined to protect her, even from himself, Miles steps into a dangerous game of secrets and deception—one that draws them closer with every anonymous letter and stolen moment…even as the truth has the power to ruin them both.

A richly atmospheric Gilded Age romance brimming with wit, hidden identities, and the tender courage it takes to love without pretense—a tale of a sharp-shooting socialite, a science-minded lord, and the summer of secrets that will change them both forever. Perfect for fans of Jen Turano and Roseanna M. White.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Abbey Downey started writing inspirational romance stories during naptime when her kids were babies and found she couldn’t stop. A life-long Midwestern girl, Abbey lives in central Indiana with her husband, two kids, and one rather enthusiastic beagle. She loves watching her middle schoolers in all their activities and fixing up a 125-yar-old farmhouse with her husband.

More from Abbey

“Ladies and gentlemen, prepare to be impressed and entertained by the marvelous skill of Lady Robin, our own famed archer. Reminiscent of Robin Hood of old, she performs feats with a bow that are only dreamed of by most masters. Now, please, sit back and enjoy the show.” – The Marquess’s Masked Archer

Why do fictional characters hide? They might keep their entire identity hidden under a costume, their face covered with a mask, or just parts of who they are kept behind a confident act, but secrets are often an element of the conflict in books we love. And it’s for the same kinds of reasons all of us have tried to hide aspects of ourselves at one time or another. Fear. Shame. Protection. Freedom. Survival.

Characters in fiction reflect the truth of our human existence. Most of us probably aren’t dressing up as a female Robin Hood to perform archery trick shots or writing secret admirer letters to win a love interest, like my characters do in The Marquess’s Masked Archer. But the reasons Sylvie and Miles choose secrecy are all too relatable.

Sylvie’s goal in hiding behind a green hood is to give herself a taste of freedom. Her high society world is prescribed and controlled. There are very few opportunities for her to make choices in life. And while she longs to have more freedom, she also worries that if she were to get the independence she so desires, she would fail miserably and be forced to return to her parents in shame. Isn’t it relatable to want something desperately but at the same time be terrified that we can’t actually handle getting it?

In a different way, Miles hides behind a new life for protection. After false accusations in his youth left him disgraced in England, he wrestles with his purpose. His passion for medical entomology has given him hope for a normal life, but he also feels the constant weight of expectations due to his noble title. He’s certain people only see what they want to when they look at him, so he hides away doing his research, hoping no one will look at all. How truly human is that? We hide so much of ourselves out of worry that people won’t understand or will immediately jump to conclusions about who we are based on one glimpse.

But God didn’t create us for secrecy. The tension of hiding makes it difficult for Sylvie and Miles to fall in love, in spite of their interest in each other from the beginning. Every step forward brings new worry that they’ll be found out and their plans will be destroyed. Each romantic moment comes with the discomfort of knowing they aren’t being completely genuine with each other. Even Sylvie and Miles’s first kiss is shrouded in questions about whether the other knows that they meant it.

In the end, Sylvie and Miles’s story is also about what happens when they’re forced to take off the masks. It takes trust in each other and in God for them to finally get to the moment of happily ever after that we all love so much. Just like in fiction, when we trust God with those secret parts of ourselves, we can start to see how living in truth offers more freedom than hiding.

Do you enjoy a hidden identity or secret admirer trope? What’s your favorite book that includes one of those?

My Impressions

“In a world that denied them the ability to choose most things for themselves, the occasional chance to determine their own fate was worth fighting hard for.”

This statement. It epitomizes the motivations of many of the actions of our MCs, Sylvie Bryce and Miles Wentworth. While Abbey Downey has set her Gilded Age historical romance, The Marquess’s Masked Archer, in the early 1900s in the Lake Erie playground of the Ohio rich and famous, you don’t have to be rich or famous to identify with these two MCs! How many of us have either fought against society’s expectations, overly controlling parental expectations, or unfair gossip that ruined a reputation while the Truth doesn’t matter? Oy, vey!!

Sylvie is in her “third season” and her high-society mother is determined to make her a match before Sylvie gets passed over again. Problem is, Sylvie doesn’t have any desire to be the compliant socialite wife that would fit in her social circle. She wants one thing. “All she wanted was to be allowed to choose her own companion for that future, but even that was more than anyone believed she could manage. In their eyes, obedience was all she was capable of.”

When her mother chooses Miles as the best prospect because of his English title,  Sylvie decides he is the last man possible she will marry… even as she is inexorably drawn to his unique character qualities of seeing her as a real person with valid wishes, hopes, and dreams for the future. 

But…secrets play a huge part in this story. Miles’s past in England is something he fights hard to keep hidden as he comes to America, attempting to re-invent himself as who he wants to be- a successful entomologist, uninterested in the society ladies his best American friend introduces him to. 

This is a novel to be read not for the surprise of the ending- because it’s one you know where it’s headed- but how will Downey get you there? How much angst will she put her characters through? ( A lot.) Inability to figure out what other key players may be thinking or planning is key. And let’s face it. Mind reading of others, especially ones we love or are in conflict with, can be hard! So we see questions about Miles and Sylvie’s motivations , Sylvie’s mother’s and another society debutante’s machinations, and society’s approval of Sylvie’s archery show. And, I must say, I love the Mr. Kinsey thread. He is a fave character, even though I’m not Team Kinsey! ( Maybe next book, Ms. Downey, please?!) 

Woven into this book is the slow, subtle realization of just Who God is, and how He cares for His own. What does His protection really look like? Did he fail Miles in England when he allowed tragedy after tragedy? Is he failing Sylvie when she can’t seem to break free from her parents’ bondage? Read this story for the historical romance, but consider the God implications for your own life! The best kind of story!

My thanks to CelebrateLit for a copy of the book via BookFunnel. I also purchased my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

Notable Quotables:

“But we tend to fight against growth. Would you have made the effort to change if it wasn’t pushed on you?”

“Fear and worry had a way of pressing someone into actions they didn’t want to take.”

“Would he ever be free from the assumptions people made about him? Would he ever be able to release the past and move forward?”

“After facing tragedy followed by a life-altering ordeal, the idea of a God who reached out to take care of individual believers didn’t match his experience. But it couldn’t hurt to take his longings to the only one who might have the power to influence the way they turned out.”

“Assumptions always worked the same way. No amount of protesting would change someone’s mind once it was made up.”

“In England, Miles had faced responsibilities and expectations he wasn’t ready for and didn’t want. The judgments of others had been enough to suffocate him. Where was the God who cared about creatures as tiny as these insects then?”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent!

Read this story for the historical romance, but consider the God implications for your own life! The best kind of story!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 26

Texas Book-aholic, September 27

Pause for Tales, September 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 28

Madi’s Musings, September 29

For Him and My Family, September 30

Book looks by lisa, October 1

The Vine and The Branch, October 1

Devoted Steps, October 2

Leslie’s Library Escape, October 2

Lyssa Loves Books, October 3

Devoted To Hope, October 4

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 5

Blossoms and Blessings, October 6

Holly’s Book Corner, October 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 8

Lily’s Corner, October 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Abbey 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://gleam.io/GCnUr/the-marquesss-masked-archer-celebration-tour-giveaway

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

Sabotage Games by Danielle Grandinetti Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

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

Book Info

Title: Sabotage Games
Series: Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency #2
Author: Danielle Grandinetti
Publisher: Hearth Spot Press
Release Date: September 22, 2026
Genre: Historical Romantic Mystery

Who will pay the ultimate price for Olympic Gold?

LAKE PLACID, N.Y., 1932—Sports journalist Emma Hancock is determined to claim her place in the press box, despite the male colleagues who slam the door in her face. But when a mysterious illness begins systematically sidelining athletes, Emma’s gift for spotting patterns reveals a plot far more sinister than mere competition.

With the Games in his own backyard, Olympic sprinter Ryan Callahan laces up his speed skates to compete in his first winter games. He has no time for distractions—especially not the inconvenience of the beautiful female journalist staying as a guest in his family’s crowded home.

But when the pattern of sabotage deepens, Emma and Ryan must work together to follow the threads before they become the next targets to fall.

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

A 1930s Historical Romantic Mystery

This page-turning novel offers a sweet, slow-burn romance mixed with cozy suspense. Set during the historic III Olympic Winter Games—the first year women’s speed skating was featured—it unfolds against the snow-covered, high-stakes press boxes of Lake Placid, New York, in 1932. Perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and J’nell Ciesielski looking for an inspirational read.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Danielle Grandinetti’s Shop | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books in This Series

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Meet the Author

Danielle Grandinetti writes award-winning 1930s historical romantic mystery and suspense. She is the 2026 Holt Medallion winner and a second-generation Italian-American. Fueled by tea and nature, she crafts hope-filled historical romance novels exploring immigrant heritage, found family, and cozy Midwest traditions. Find her at daniellegrandinetti.com.

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My Impressions

“That is not all that women can do. They can be queens and heads of state. Doctors and business women. I think it’s amazing what these female athletes can do here at the Olympics, and we should definitely have more females in sports.”

Such an impassioned speech by Danielle Grandinetti’s main female character, Emma, in Sabotage Games. Ali has sent a couple of the reporters of the all female DiStasio Giornaliste Agency undercover to the Lake Placid Olympics in 1932. Emma and Lena (a political journalist) meet a Federal agent on the train who befriends them and joins them in their adventure. Billeted at the Callahan home because the Olympic Village was not yet created, nor were female reporters well-received in the hotel that housed reporters, Emma meets Ryan, a contender in the men’s speed skating competition. 

Whew! Emma is not your usual female. She loves to play baseball, cannot stop talking sports if given the chance to start, and isn’t afraid to pursue the stories surrounding the male athletes. But the times mold people and most refuse to take a female reporter, especially a sports reporter, seriously, casting aspersions and difficulty Emma’s way every chance possible. 

I loved Emma and Ryan’s story. I especially love the way Emma sacrifices for and builds up Ryan truthfully, not with platitudes. I love the way Ryan begins to see how beautiful Emma is, inside and out, and supports her as best he can. Each learns to appreciate the other as they see respect being given towards them, in a way unusual from the opposite gender. 

When the needed snow doesn’t appear, Ryan remarks that the weather is not the biggest problem the Olympics are having, but it is rather a mysterious illness. Can Emma work with Ryan, Lena, and Noah to find out who is sickening the athletes and why? Or will the character attacks by the other reporters, especially as they begin to notice the time Ryan and Emma are spending together, end any hope of success for either Emma or Ryan?

I loved racing through the pages, trying to get ahead of the plot enough to figure out who was causing the great difficulties and who was actually being targeted. “Sports is a team effort. No one wins or loses because of one person. Okay, maybe one person makes a spectacular play, or a horrible play at an inopportune time. But it is a team of spectacular athletes that wins at team sports.” So says Emma, and she’s right. But it also takes a team of investigators, reporters, family, and friends to dive deep enough into the mystery to uncover the hidden answers. I loved how Sabotage Games is at once a romantic suspense, an inspirational read, a history lesson, and a political lesson as well. So many threads, all well connected, coming together slowly, at just the right time! 

We see real-life famous people from the Olympics, a famous politician, real heart attitudes, and real firsts-like the first women’s sports in the Olympics and the first Olympic Village. 

Just in case you think your heart is settled when you finish the book, we are given a sneak peak at Lena’s story. And can I say it involves a brother of one of my fave Grandinetti characters? Oh, dear, I’m sure I might see a swoon coming on!!

I received a copy of the book from the author and JustRead Tours. I also bought my own ecopy, and will be purchasing a pb for the trophy shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

Notable Quotables:

“We are commodities. People watch us, they place bets on us, and when we don’t perform, they toss us aside or they blame us for losing their paycheck.”

“I found that a wonderful way to discover a story is to be present. Let the story come to me, instead of trying to chase one. Oftentimes, an angle I didn’t expect pops up because I wasn’t looking for it.”

“…I know I am a reporter of integrity and that’s what matters.”

 “it’s not about how you do in a race, it’s about who you look for when you cross that finish line.” 

“But I cover sports because … perhaps there’s another family out there that needs to know their child is succeeding.”

And the quote that made me want to cry because of its context…

“ The hardware is nice, but when you reach that finish line, it’s who you want to celebrate with that really matters.” (The speaker is a quiet gem!)

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Superior! Danielle Grandinetti once again knocks it out of the park with this story of women sports reporters, the 1932 Lake Placid Olympics, and political intrigue! Run now to get your copy!

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Want to Win? ( Tour Giveaway)

(2) winners will each receive a paperback copy of Undercover Wish & Eyewitness Sketch!

The Fine Print

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 22, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 29, 2026. 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.

Enter Giveaway

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Get more opinions and chances to win!

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

ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Favorite Truth Nuggets, Just Read Tours, Kindle, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

The Ballerina’s Bargain by Lorri Dudley Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Ballerina’s Bargain by Lorri Dudley, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Book Details

Title: The Ballerina’s Bargain
Series: Danforth Theatre #1
Author: Lorri Dudley
Publisher: Wild Heart Books
Release Date: September 8, 2026
Genre: Historical Regency Romance

A burdened earl. A determined ballerina. Saving the theatre was part of their bargain. Losing their hearts wasn’t.

London, 1815

Emmeline Laurent has survived by grace and grit. After her parents’ execution in France, she has learned to live unseen as a humble ballerina instructing young pupils in a small London theatre. When whispers spread that the Danforth Theatre may be sold to an unscrupulous buyer, Emmeline fears not only for her livelihood but for the safety of her impressionable students. With no time and no options, she does the only thing she knows to do: leap into a moving carriage and bargain with the new lord who holds their fate.

Grant Atherton, the Earl of Quincy, has inherited the crushing weight of duty along with a failing theatre, an arranged engagement, two younger sisters to usher into society, and a mountain of his father’s secrets. Selling the Danforth is the only way to save his family from ruin. The last thing he needs is a beautiful, infuriatingly determined ballerina turning his careful plans upside down.

But when Emmeline’s hidden past begins surfacing and the danger circling the theatre proves far deadlier than either of them realized, Grant must choose between the life he planned and the one God may have been preparing all along.

For fans of Roseanna M. White and Jen Turano — a sweeping Regency romance about the grace found in surrender, the courage it takes to trust, and the God who makes a way when every door seems closed.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Wild Heart Books | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Other Books by Dudley Available:

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Author’s Corner

Lorri Dudley is the bestselling author of The Leeward Island Series and The Agents of Espionage Series. She has a master’s degree in psychology and lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household.

Connect with Lorri by visiting lorridudley.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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My Impressions

“The happiest people in life aren’t those without problems. It’s those with something bigger than their problems.”

I give The Ballerina’s Bargain (The Danforth Theatre, bk#1) by Lorri Dudley a rousing standing ovation. Taking place in 1815 England, forbidden love, familial duty, revenge, fear, protection of innocents, and society double-standards are all topics explored. 

Having narrowly escaped the guillotine in France as a child, Emmeline and her ballet mentor, Charlene, hide under assumed names working at the Danforth Theatre. Finding out that the present owner, Lord Quincy, Grant Atherton, plans to sell the theatre to a man who intends to promote “back room rendezvous,” Emmeline challenges Grant not to sell. She loves the little ballerines, ages 6-14, that she teaches and realizes their pending fate under the new owner. Then she promises Grant that she will make sure the Danforth turns a profit. Grant doesn’t want to acquiesce… but prayer is an important part of his life, and he hears God speaking, “Protect my lambs.” But what about his younger siblings’ futures? Must he risk them?

Ooh, la, la!! As Grant reneges on his spoken agreement to sell the theatre, he begins to find he is making enemies left and right. Mr. Harrowby threatens to ruin him, an old Eton bully reappears in his life, the dancers are ready to mutiny, and he has a fiancée he doesn’t want to marry. While Charlene insists troubles come because of the father’s sins visiting the children, Emmeline draws on her faith to reach a different conclusion. “‘We learn from pain.’ Emmeline issued Flora a gentle smile. ‘It keeps us humble and reminds us who’s ultimately in control.’”

I loved how gentle and kind with her young charges Emmeline is. She works very hard to repay her mentor for the years of caretaking Charlene has provided and is loyal to a fault. She is strong as she leans into God for help to get overcome her fears. But is God big enough to help her overcome her biggest fear? As she begins to trust Grant, what will happen when he appears to not be who he presents himself to be?

Grant, bless his heart, is a tortured soul. “Firstborn sons inherited lands, wealth, and titles, but they sacrificed their freedom.” Grant’s every life move has been dictated by his father.  How he resents those choices. Grant is constantly praying for wisdom. Can he begin to trust his heavenly Father to guide him aright, where his earthly father did not?

I loved seeing the inner workings of a theatre.  The competition with other theatres, all the frantic practices, the theatre preparations, the discord between actors or dancers, and the individual parts of putting together a ballet-opera performance. And it made me sad, of course, to see such a double standard society set up. It is fine and wonderful to attend the opera and be a patron, but it is wrong to befriend or love an actor or ballerina. 

This book gets the superior rating from me as it ventures into the final acts before whipping out some really great twists! Memorable!!

I received a copy of the book from CelebrateLit and the publisher through BookFunnel. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

Notable Quotables:

“The bang of the door reverberated through her heart like the slam of the guillotine.”

“Fear is like being shackled,”

“We’re all broken people. The Bible says all of us have sinned and fall short, but Jesus’s life and death prove that broken people are worth saving.”

“Perfection is working overly hard for man, but excellence is doing your best for God. Go and give God glory, showing everyone how magnifique He made you.”

“Lord, I want to trust. No. I choose to trust.”

“Our limitations are an invitation to trust God.”

“I’ve found that bravery and fear feel the same. It’s up to us to choose how to respond.”

“Lord, I’m trusting You to make a way where there seems to be no way.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! For the storyline, the Truth nuggets, the twists!

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Your Chance to Win!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card and a prize bundle with reading blanket, socks, and candle!

Fine print😊:

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 8, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 15, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, PB, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

A Contrary Betrothal by Denise Farnsworth Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: A Contrary Betrothal

Author: Denise Farnsworth writing as Denise Weimer

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: August 18, 2026

A Cherokee lieutenant, a colonel’s daughter, and a desperate fight to protect both land and love.

Sam Hicks may be the educated son of a Cherokee chief, but his command of multiple languages and diplomatic skills can’t erase the prejudice he faces as a mixed-blood warrior. When he’s tasked with guarding Colonel Moore’s spirited daughter, Susanna, at a wilderness fort, he never expects to lose his heart to a woman he can never have.

Susanna Moore dreams of making her own way on the frontier like her Cherokee stepmother. The last thing she wants is an arranged marriage to the fort’s stuffy doctor—especially after she meets the noble and intelligent Sam Hicks. When she’s captured by a turncoat warrior during a Creek uprising, Sam risks everything to save her.

Their shared values and growing love give them hope—but with the Creek War raging and cultural pressures mounting, can a Cherokee lieutenant and a colonel’s daughter overcome the loyalties and prejudices set against them?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

North Georgia native Denise Farnsworth, formerly Denise Weimer, has authored over twenty traditionally published novels and novellas—historical and contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and time slip. As a freelance editor and Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books, she’s helped other authors reach their publishing dreams. A wife and mother of two adult daughters, Denise always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.

More from Denise

The seed idea for A Contrary Betrothal came from another author a number of years ago. She proposed a collection of stories in which the heroes were all Native Americans who served their country in different wars. I still love the idea even though it never came to pass! In fact, I loved it so much, I went ahead and wrote my story. And that story became Bent Tree Bride, first published with Smitten Romance. Now, it’s joining my Scouts of the Georgia Frontier series as book six.

Many people are unaware that the Cherokees fought alongside American troops under Andrew Jackson during the Creek War or Red Stick War, a portion of the War of 1812 that occurred in present-day Alabama. The Creek people were allied to the British, as the Cherokees themselves had been during the American Revolution. The motivation for this was, of course, to keep their land. Their warriors were so valuable to Jackson that they broke the ineffective cannonade on the town of Tohopeka, swimming across the river from behind and making the victory possible that ended the war at Horseshoe Bend.

Sam Hicks, the hero of A Contrary Betrothal, is a mixed-blood Cherokee lieutenant with the head of a scholar and the heart of a warrior. His struggle to intermingle the old ways and the new ways proves reflective of the metamorphosis of his people. Even though he’s been educated as the wealthy son of a chief, he knows his white colonel’s daughter, Susanna Moore, is out of his reach. But when he’s assigned to guard her and her little brother at a wilderness fort, he can no longer deny his attraction to the feisty young woman who’s determined to convince her father she can survive on the frontier as well as her Cherokee stepmother.

A Contrary Betrothal will resonate with readers who enjoy stories by authors like Laura Frantz, Shannon McNear, Michelle Griep, and Lori Benton. The forbidden love and fish out of water tropes create plenty of angst, and the battlefield scenes echo Last of the Mohicans. When people have asked me which of my books would translate well onto the big screen, in fact, this is one I think of. I invite you, dear reader, to be swept away by the action and romance of my final book of the Scouts of the Georgia Frontier.

My Impressions

“‘Not yet.’ ‘Soon.’ ‘Almost.’” George picked up a pine frond and examined it carefully. “Seems like a lot of things not happening.” “That is the way of it for our people, George.” 

An obscure quote? Perhaps. But I find it very accurately describes the frustration of the Cherokee people in the time of this book, A Contrary Betrothal, by Denise Farnsworth. ( Which, though book #6 in this series, Scouts of the Revolution, this was originally published as Bent Tree Bride. Fair warning to those who don’t like to buy a new book only to discover they have already read it!)

I think I could wax eloquent and write a whole book about my thoughts on this novel. At the very least, I would love to discuss the political intrigue and double standards presented between the Caucasians, the  Cherokee, and the Red Stick people (who I was motivated to research on my own). If I were still teaching upper elementary, this book’s facts (delineated with historical figures mentioned and separating fact from artistic license) along with the very real political climate would help provide background into my lessons.  Farnsworth makes me feel deeply the angst of the Cherokee people and the Red Sticks, both who realize the precariousness of their possession of the Tennessee-North Carolina mountain forest land. Each tribe must choose a side of the War of 1812 to side with- the British or the Americans- and pray that their side wins, and that said government will keep the promises they make to their Native American partners.

It is into this massive backdrop of confusion that Farnsworth places her two star-crossed lovers. One, Sam Hicks, is a mixed-blood Cherokee and Caucasian. Which means, he fights for his place in either world. Trained in both, he has the skills of a Cherokee warrior, but is ridiculed because he doesn’t follow all their tortuous customs, having learned about Jesus from missionaries. His ultimate questions: can he fight like a Cherokee and restore his lost honor? Will his mixed blood mean he must relinquish his love for Susanna which grows as he is assigned by her double-standard enforcing father to be her body guard? 

“The man who’d captured her imagination from a single day’s meeting was a Cherokee. White women did not marry Cherokee men.” Poor Susanna! Her  powerful Caucasian father, himself married a second time to a wonderful Cherokee woman, insists Susanna can only marry a Caucasian man, esp. his choice, Dr. Hawkins.  The whole book, I was rather violently seething with Susanna at her father’s total inability to see his double standards. Unfortunately, it is one I see exhibited by people today, some very close to me. How can you honestly love a spouse and denounce or hold prejudice against their people? What about ourselves? Do we say we don’t have prejudices, but they linger in big and small ways? Our faith speaks to that!!

I think what makes this book one of true sadness for me, is that we have the perspective of history behind us. We know how the greed for land and gain in this area affects the Native Americans. But I would be a liar not to be grateful that this land is part of our country now where we can travel, visit,or live freely. Farnsworth shows both the underbelly of all three cultures, and those who are honestly trying to, through faith in God, and following human kindness, make the best of trying times. Keep your eyes open for important historical figures (one I didn’t recognize!) that are included in this emotional, faith-filled, romantic book!

At the risk of running on too long, when I saw the list of comparable Christian historical authors, I understood immediately why I loved this book. Here they are: Michelle Griep, Shannon McNear, Laura Frantz, and Lori Benton. *Le Sigh*

I received a copy of the book from CelebrateLit, the author and Wild Heart Books via BookFunnel. I bought my own ecopy and I’m off to buy a pb copy for trophy shelf. No positive opinion was required, and all opinions are my own. 

Notable Quotables:

“She was most definitely not in control. But she believed in Someone who was. And if she believed His goodness, she also must believe He had a good future for her.”

“To be without a clan is to be without an identity.”

“Then you cannot fight this war to prove yourself to the colonel. That is fighting from a position of weakness. You are sure to lose. Instead, you must forgive the colonel. If you fight, it must be what you believe is right before God, asking Him to come alongside you to help our people. That is fighting from a position of strength.”

“Is it ever a just cause to turn brothers against each other? Do we deceive ourselves that the English won’t take the land of the Creeks if they win this war, then turn on us for ours?”

“Save your anger. To show restraint is wiser than to engage a fool.”

“I want the two wolves to lie together inside. In peace.”

“He’d fallen to quoting scriptures in his head after that. By the time they crossed Chockelocko Creek, he’d restored some semblance of inner peace.”

“Sam saw the way forward in words, not wars.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! I believe this is one of Farnsworth’s best! Whether I remember the names of the characters a year from now, I will never forget the accurate depiction of the swirling vortex of cultural clash, greed, and those who strove to leave a mark of love for their fellow man, regardless of skin color!

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, August 25

lakesidelivingsite, August 26

Books, Books, & More Books, August 27 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 27

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 30

Cover Lover Book Review, August 31

Jeanette’s Thoughts , September 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 2

Connie’s History Classroom, September 3

Simple Harvest Reads, September 4 (Guest Review from Donna)

Blossoms and Blessings, September 5

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 6

Holly’s Book Corner, September 7

Pause for Tales, September 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Denise 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://gleam.io/7zfBE/a-contrary-betrothal-celebration-tour-giveaway

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

The Reluctant Healer of Halifax by Terrie Todd Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Reluctant Healer of Halifax

Author: Terrie Todd

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: August, 2026

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

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

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

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Terrie Todd is a Canadian author of nine historical and split-time novels and one nonfiction book. Her work has earned numerous Word Awards from The Word Guild, the 2018 Janette Oke Award from Inscribe Christian Writers Fellowship, and the 2022 Braun Book Award. She is also a Carol Award Finalist. From 2010-2024, she wrote a weekly “Faith and Humor” column for her hometown newspaper, and since 2021, a monthly column for the Heroes, Heroines, and History blog. Terrie lives with her husband, Jon, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, where they raised their three children. They are grandparents to five boys.

More from Terrie

It wasn’t until I was interviewing a friend for a newspaper column that the Halifax Explosion of 1917 began to interest me. My friend, Gene, had gone blind from macular degeneration, and I wanted to write a series of columns about what it was like for him to lose his sight and now live with blindness. One of the books Gene mentioned as having inspired him was the true story of Eric Davidson. At the time of the explosion, Eric was a toddler, playing with his toy car on a windowsill in his Halifax home. The glass exploded, permanently blinding Eric. The north end of Halifax was destroyed, and roughly two thousand residents died. Nine thousand more were wounded, including hundreds blinded or partially blinded by flying glass. The mass blinding helped birth the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). Eric’s daughter, Marilyn Davidson Elliott, wrote the book The Blind Mechanic about her father.

I found Eric’s story fascinating. When given the opportunity to try for a spot in Barbour’s series of books about historical disasters, I decided to write one about the Halifax explosion. The more I researched, the more I wondered why we didn’t learn about this in school, and the harder it was to imagine the devastation that the city and its people survived. This was during a world war and only five years after being highly involved in the recovery of the Titanic’s victims and survivors, a disaster that helped prepare them for this one. Story after story, many revealing the incredible determination of the stalwart people of Nova Scotia and the Bostonians who came to their aid, moved me to tears. It was difficult to choose which experiences to borrow for my characters. I was thrilled to visit Halifax in 2025, a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Naturally, the book includes some blind and partially blind characters. I so appreciate the input from my two blind beta readers, Alexandra Banwell and Leanne Merren. One of my favorite things to do with each book I launch is to choose a charity to which I give a portion of the proceeds from my local book launch. For this book, I’ve chosen the CNIB’s Guide Dog program.

Although my book never became a part of that series, Barbour decided it would be a good fit for their “Enduring Hope” series. The rest is, literally, history. I’m thrilled to be part of this series and have enjoyed the first five immensely. I hope you read them all!

My Impressions

“Fires erupted every few minutes, and the air was filled with racking, bubbling coughs, cries of devastation, alarm bells, and sirens. Surely she was in hell.”

And so we are given in vivid clarity a recounting of the horrible harbor ship explosion of 1917 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I am enjoying this series, Enduring Hope, by Barbour very much. Each stand-alone book tells the story of an American ( including Canadian) disaster that many have never learned from history class. Terrie Todd brings the WWI setting and Halifax tragedy to unforgettable life in her novel, The Reluctant Healer of Halifax. 

One of the main characters is an injured soldier, Oliver Hamilton, who returns from the European front minus an eye and with internal emotional scars. Certain his bright future is over, he breaks things off with his almost-fiancée, deciding he will not saddle her with a lifetime married to a freak. Heartbroken, Pearline shares with her wise parents. Her mother thoughtfully responds,“Sounds like whatever’s hiding under Oliver’s bandages is not nearly as bad as what’s deep inside him right now.” 

But, will Pearline ever get a chance to show Oliver that she loves him for his character, not his face? Or has his character been marred as badly as his face?

Soon, Pearline, the female main character, must put aside her broken heart to deal with the incredible shock and tragedy of the harbor explosion. What starts as a ship collision turns into a disaster of epic proportions as a ship with wartime cargo explodes, raining death, destruction, blindness, and literal Hell down upon the town. Search for family and friends becomes her consuming passion. What will Pearline and her hired hand, Daisy find in their quest for answers? How will their lives change from normal to “normal isn’t coming back,” how do we deal with our new reality? 

I loved how there was great cooperation between American (particularly Bostonian)people and the people of Nova Scotia. We can be good neighbors!! 

Emotional, heart-rending, with God-incidences, great character growth arcs and historical fact all presented so compellingly. I couldn’t close this book, once opened, until I’d devoured the final word!

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

Notable Quotables:

“No one could ever love me. I can never ask Pearline to marry me now; it would be cruel. I can never teach again. God’s punishing me for not wanting to follow Pop’s career. I deserve this. Like machine-gun fire, nefarious notions had pounded his brain.” 

“God had already given her the strength to survive the unthinkable. He’d provide for this too, if she leaned into Him and followed His purposes for her.”

“He’d grown much through the challenges, the losses, the trauma. Why had it not occurred to him that Pearline would have matured, too?”

“Bringing buried things to the surface can feel painful.” “Like digging up a dead dog. Why would I want to do that?”

“I’ve been doing extra studies in the areas of plastic surgery and the psychology of shell shock. The more patients can tell me, the more honestly they share, the more we learn how to help.”

“God, make me more aware of others. Open my eyes—or my eye, I suppose—to the significance of the lives around me before they’re gone and it’s too late.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent! Another book I highly recommend!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 26

Devoted Steps, August 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 27

Texas Book-aholic, August 28

Pause for Tales, August 29

For Him and My Family, August 29

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 31

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 2

Connie’s History Classroom, September 3

Cover Lover Book Review, September 4

Sydney Schmied Books, September 5

Mary Hake, September 5

Blossoms and Blessings , September 6

The Bookish Pilgrim, September 7

Devoted to Hope, September 7

Holly’s Book Corner, September 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Terrie 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://gleam.io/9yOdf/the-reluctant-healer-of-halifax-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Launch Team, New Author, PB, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

The Darling’s Daughter by Sydney Schmied Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Darling’s Daughter

Author: Sydney Schmied

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: August 4, 2026

A woman chasing the truth. A man running from his past. And a secret that threatens the fragile trust between them.

Searching for answers about her mother’s suspicious death, artist Angelica Woods takes a job painting backdrops at the Majestic Theater—the very place her famous actress mother warned her to avoid. When she discovers cryptic notes and bloody evidence of an old murder, Angie realizes her mother’s warning may have been meant to protect her from a deadly secret.

Architect Trace Ackerman has worked hard to build a quiet, respectable life far removed from his former mistakes. Renovating the Majestic is meant to be a fresh start—until Angie awakens feelings he never planned to risk again. Drawn to her courage and vulnerability, Trace offers his protection as rumors swirl and danger edges closer. But the past he’s worked so hard to outrun threatens to surface, and Trace fears the truth could cost him Angie’s trust—and the future he longs to build.

With a killer determined to silence them both, Angie and Trace must decide if uncovering the truth about her mother’s death is worth risking their own lives—and hearts. Set against the backdrop of a historic theater in 1912 Ohio, this romantic suspense weaves together murder, betrayal, and the redeeming power of faith and forgiveness.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Sydney Schmiedwrites sweet and intriguing historical romantic suspense stories with a whole lot of faith. She is a 2023 ACFW First Impressions Contest finalist and a 2024 Genesis Contest Semi-finalist, as well as a two-time Scrivenings Press Get Pubbed Finalist. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, painting, and sipping on a classic London Fog.

More from Sydney

Theaters tell so many stories, and in The Darling’s Daughter, The Majestic Theater itself has been shaped by the people who have passed through its doors. While it was known as The Masonic Opera House from 1853 to 1915, The Majestic has stood through nearly 173 years of history. I can’t help but wonder about all the individuals who walked its halls, performers, musicians, and attendees alike, and what stories they might tell about how their lives once intertwined with the Majestic.

In my research, I came across so many real accounts of people who visited theaters like this one, and I was able to glimpse bits and pieces of that connection. For Angie, the heroine in The Darling’s Daughter, The Majestic becomes a place of reckoning and reconciliation. Her mother was her only family, and even that relationship was strained. Angie carries a deep loneliness as she peels back the complicated layers of her late mother’s life, wrestling with questions of worth, belonging, and whether she is truly loved.

For Trace, The Majestic offers both a meaningful project and a chance to rebuild. Unfortunately, his identity has been constructed atop the fragile foundation of guilt, and that foundation begins to crack as his past resurfaces.

Just as The Majestic has stood strong through seasons of change and still stands today, Angie and Trace are refined through their struggles as everything around them begins to shift. Neither of them are defined by the broken parts of their story, but by their hope in Christ, even when that hope feels uncertain and their faith is shaky. If this resonates with you, I hope you’ll join Angie and Trace in The Darling’s Daughter and find encouragement in their journey.

My Impressions

“Dear Daughter, now that I am gone, I cannot protect you from the ghosts of my past. Trust no one, and stay away from the Majestic.”

Have you been introduced to debut author Sydney Schmied? If not, I’d love to tell you why I picked up her inspirational historical romance novel, The Darling’s Daughter. This novel was like a big, warm hug to my reading soul! Two individuals who feel like they are either unworthy or longing for a love that they never received . They will either help each other towards healing, faith, and redemption, or their hopes and dreams will be forever buried with the secrets of the old Majestic Theater. 

My interest was first piqued when I saw the setting is Chillicothe, OH. That got my attention as I have traveled through Chillicothe in years past and noted the heavy paper smell clogging the air. Little surprise to discover that newspapers are an important, albeit negative, part of this story. 

I enjoyed learning about the Majestic Theater. I love books that impart history of little-known sites that were once well-known. The theater life and atmosphere spring to life between Angie’s backdrop paintings for performances, her search for her mother’s forbidden secrets, and Trace’s refurbishing of the old theater. 

I loved the eeriness that stayed with me as I searched with (or at least, I felt like I was there with !)Angie, looking about in the old mansion, trying to remember why feelings were connected with some places. Then, there is the suspense of not knowing who is after Angie. Is it her mother’s enemy? An enemy of Trace’s? The tension is nearly unbearable, and I was so grateful that kind, thoughtful Trace is there for Angie. “Yes, he needed to protect her from outside threats, but the threat to his heart was growing by the minute.”

Unfortunately, Trace has his own skeletons hidden in the closet. Will they emerge just in time to spell death for Trace’s and Angie’s budding relationship?

I loved Mrs. Ackerman and her loving ways. She is so physically worn-down by the cares of life, but still exudes the kind of love that reaches out and envelops those around her- just like her bakery smells- whether they are worthy or not. 

What made me stand up and outright applaud this book, though, was the twists! Wow, did they ever catch me off guard! I loved it!! Please, Miss Schmied, can I have your next book NOW?!!

I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit. I also took a chance and bought a paperback for the keeper shelf! I am so glad!! No positive opinion was required, and all opinions are my own. 

Notable Quotables:

“What you have to say will not shock me. Or God. Jesus’s death paid for our sins. To hold onto a burden of sin is denying that Jesus’s blood is enough. Don’t hold onto what he has freed you from long ago.” -Mutti

“Love forgives.” – Mutti

“People do terrible things for those they love, especially when fear is involved,” -Trace

“‘What if the answers you seek are not the answers you want?’ ‘I want the truth.’ No matter what it turns out to be.”- Trace, Angie

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Wow! This is a debut?! Where is book 2? And I just saw there is a book 3 coming. Anticipation, Sweet agony!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 19

Devoted Steps, August 19

Books Less Travelled, August 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 21

Texas Book-aholic, August 22

Connie’s History Classroom, August 23

For Him and My Family, August 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 24

Lyssa Loves Books, August 25

Holly’s Book Corner, August 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 27

Pause for Tales, August 28

Devoted to Hope, August 29

Book Looks by Lisa, August 30

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 30

Cover Lover Book Review, August 31

Lily’s Corner, September 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sydney 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://gleam.io/TyDfI/the-darlings-daughter-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Kindle, NetGalley, New-to-Me Author, Partners in Crime Tours, Purchase, Revell

When the Silence Breaks by Elizabeth Goddard Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog Tour Hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for When the Silence Breaks by Elizabeth Goddard!

About the Book

WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS

by Elizabeth Goddard

August 3 – 28, 2026 Virtual Book Tour

A deathbed confession. A decades-old secret. A mountain that holds the answers–and danger closing in.

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

After his father’s death in a tragic mountain accident, former Navy SEAL Ryder Goodwin no longer guides for the family business. At first, Ryder refuses to help Sarah, but he sees the trouble chasing her and can’t stand by while someone brings danger to his small-town mountain community.

Ryder and Sarah gear up to climb the mountain in a race against time and a looming storm. When the danger escalates, their search for answers shifts to a survival mission. Their only chance to make it through involves trusting each other and confronting the truth no one wants them to find.

This gripping romantic-suspense thriller set in the Pacific Northwest from USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard is a series opener that will sweep you away in a rush of adrenaline.

Book Details:

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Published by: Revell 
Publication Date: August 4, 2026
Number of Pages: 352 
ISBN: 9780800747688 (ISBN10: 0800747682)
Series:MERCY RIDGE, Book 1
Book Links:AMAZON | KINDLE | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOKSHOP.ORG | CHRISTIANBOOK | AUDIBLE | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | BAKER BOOK HOUSE

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Author Bio

Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Todaybestselling and Christy Award-winning author of more than sixty-five novels. She is a Carol Award winner, a two-time Reader’s Choice Award winner, and a Daphne du Maurier Award and HOLT Medallion finalist. When she’s not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry.

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Connect with Elizabeth Goddard

ELIZABETHGODDARD.COM

AMAZON AUTHOR PROFILE

BOOKBUB -@ELIZABETHGODDARD

INSTAGRAM – @ELIZABETHGODDARDAUTHOR

PINTEREST – @ELIZABETHGODDARDAUTHOR

X – @BETHGODDARD

FACEBOOK – @ELIZABETHGODDARDAUTHOR

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My Impressions

“Secrets can’t stay buried forever.” 

What an à propos opener for this hard-hitting, fast-paced inspirational romantic suspense, When the Silence Breaks, by Elizabeth Goddard! Ex-CIA agent Sarah Ellison has lost both her husband and now her brother to nefarious events. Leaving her only two remaining family members, her sister-in-law, Tessa, and 3-yr-old Jeremy in a safe house, Sarah handpicks a wilderness survival guide to take her into the Cascade Mountains. Only one problem there- former Navy Seal and mountain trail guide Ryder Goodwin is no longer accepting assignments on the mountain. I thought the first meeting of Ryder and Sarah is quite memorable. Def not a meet-cute, though! 

“Family is everything,” says the broken compass Sarah has of her grandfather’s. Sarah is determined to finish what her brother Aaron started, and find out what got him killed. What secret did their grandfather(who raised the two of them)divulge to Aaron as he was dying, that led to Aaron’s death? If “family is everything,” is a motto that Ryder also lives by, it may explain why he refuses to re-address the mountain where he saw his father die. I appreciated the way this motto actually carried throughout the book. 

I was a little less happy by how much time Sarah and Ryder spend deciding whether to trust each other. Each has a reason, very viable reasons, for their secrets. Yet, once they decide to be partners, I was amazed at how much info each can keep close to the vest. In a need-to-know situation, where the two end up on a dangerous volcanic mountain known for avalanches, somehow the wrong people know more of the truth than Sarah and Ryder. Can they let down their guards enough to totally trust each other with their histories and their hearts? 

I was totally impressed with the amount of research it must take to understand various mountain conditions, government agencies, WWII secrets, chemical safety precautions, whew! My mind just spun with all the information Goddard would have had to compile to compose a book with this many varied elements. 

The action seemed to really pick up, once I hit the 40% mark or so. I enjoyed the unexpected twists. I may have gasped aloud at some of the revelations.  Finally, both the reader and the characters are beginning to get a grasp on how dangerous this particular mission for justice is that Sarah has embarked on. 

Since this is book one of the Mercy Ridge Series, I am eager to see where Goddard will take the next characters of the town and just who the mcs will be. 

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

Notable Quotables:

“Sarah might just be in full-blown panic. The agency training hadn’t taught her how to navigate the very heart of her soul being in jeopardy.”

“Because now, her mission wasn’t about exposing the past. It was about preventing the future.”- ( Sarah)

“But it was too late for Ryder—Sarah Ellison had gotten under his skin the moment they’d survived a mudslide together.”

“this isn’t some kind of effort on your part to redeem the past, is it?”

“He didn’t like caves because they came with too many unknowns. But if they were going to find the truth, they had to walk straight into the dark.” – (Ryder)

“Once . . . she’d been good at her job with the federal government. She’d left that part of her life—left the secrets, the lies, and the burden of knowing too much—behind. But sometimes, the past didn’t let go so easily.” -( Sarah)

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great! I will def be in line for the next book in the series, featuring Holt Goodwin and slated for release in February of 2027.

Tour Participants

Click through the other tour stops for can’t-miss reviews, insider interviews, exclusive guest posts, and more chances to win!

1.

08/06 BOOK REVIEWS FROM AN AVID READER WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

2.

08/07 INKWELL INSPIRATIONS WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

3.

08/08 JODYS BOOKISH HAVEN WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS SHOWCASE

4.

08/08 THE AR CRITIQUE WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

5.

08/09 MELOPLANNER WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS SHOWCASE

6.

08/10 SARCASTICALLY YOURS, JEN WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS SHOWCASE

7.

08/12 BABBLING BECKY L’S BOOK IMPRESSIONS WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

8.

08/13 COUNTRY MAMAS WITH KIDS WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

9.

08/14 SOPHIAROSE1816 WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

10.

08/15 FROM THE TBR PILE WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

11.

08/17 FUONLYKNEW WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS SHOWCASE

12.

Find Out More About WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS on Amazon+1

08/18 DEAL SHARING AUNT WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

13.

08/18 FUNDINMENTAL WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

14.

08/19 NOVELS ALIVE WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

15.

08/19 THE PAGE LADIES WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

16.

08/20 DIANAS_BOOKS_CARS_COFFEE WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

17.

08/20 SILVERS REVIEWS WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS SHOWCASE

18.

08/21 PAT FAYO REVIEWS WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

19.

08/25 GUATEMALA PAULA LOVES TO READ WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS SHOWCASE

20.

08/27 A ROOM WITHOUT BOOKS IS EMPTY WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS REVIEW

21.

08/28 TEATIME AND BOOKS WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS SHOWCASE

Giveaway

This giveaway is hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for When the Silence Breaks by Elizabeth Goddard. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS by Elizabeth Goddard

Terms And Conditions:

There will be ONE (1) winner, US-ONLY, for this tour. The winner will receive a print edition of WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS by Elizabeth Goddard AND a $25 Bookshop.org gift card. The winner will be emailed and have 48 hours to respond or the prize will be awarded to a different contestant. This giveaway is open to all eligible participants in the US.

One Winner Per Household. Please Do not enter if you have won a prize from this author in the past year so that someone else may have a chance to win. THANK YOU.

  • All entries are verified. Any entry that is incomplete, inaccurate, or awarded to a participant in a country of origin not allowed/specified in the drawing rules will be disqualified. 
  • A working and monitored email address must be shared to win. That will be the method by which winners are notified.
  • By entering this giveaway you consent to join the monthly email list featuring updates on the current Partners in Crime & Providence Book Promotions giveaways. Otherwise, your email address will be used for this giveaway and will not be shared or sold. Occasionally, the author may send an email asking you to join their list.
  • Winners will be notified from the email address gina@partnersincrimetours.com OR gina@partnersincrimetours.net. Check your spam and promotions folders for these limited-time acceptance emails.
  • Gift cards will be issued from US accounts and are primarily valid only in the USA. There will be no transfer to a different country or currency. Most gift cards will only be usable in the US. 
  • Tweets, Posts, and Follower Lists must be public to confirm eligibility. Locked accounts and private tweets/posts will be disqualified.
  • Neither Partners In Crime Tours (PICT), Providence Book Promotions (PBP), the publisher, nor the author is responsible for lost or damaged awards emailed, mailed, or shipped. We reserve the right to disqualify/delete any entries if the rules or intent of the giveaway are not followed.
  • One Winner Per Household. Please Do not enter if you have won a prize from this author in the past year so that someone else may have a chance to win. THANK YOU.

Giveaway Link Below!

https://www.promoamp.com/c/when-the-silence-breaks-by-elizabeth-goddard

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

When the South Wind Blows by Barbara A. Curtis Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: When the South Wind Blows

Author: Barbara A. Curtis

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 14, 2026

He’s spent his life chasing headlines—until the woman behind the story captures his heart.

Elizabeth Canton never planned to abandon her budding theater career, but after witnessing a crime, she has no choice but to disappear. When a family invitation offers refuge at the Double E Ranch, she seizes the chance to hide and finds unexpected purpose helping her young cousin rehearse for the stage, never expecting to be drawn to the local reporter who sees past her carefully kept secrets.

Ranch hand Logan Palmer has always dreamed of writing stories that matter, not livestock columns for the town paper. Elizabeth’s grace catches his eye. But it’s her patience and tenderness with her cousin that captures his heart, even as her mystery stirs his reporter’s instincts. The closer he grows to her, the more he questions whether some stories are better left untold.

As Elizabeth and Logan grow closer, danger follows her to Idaho. When her past catches up with her, she’ll have to choose between protecting her heart and trusting in love. And Logan must decide what matters more—the story that could launch his career, or the woman who’s stolen his heart.

Set against the rugged beauty of the American West, this touching historical romance explores the healing power of family, second chances, and learning that sometimes the greatest role we can play is simply being ourselves.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Barbara A. Curtis lives in Connecticut with her husband, and they have one grown son, a blessing to their hearts. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Novel Academy.

More from Barbara

Chocolate, Chocolate

What part does chocolate play in When the South Wind Blows? To little Susannah, it plays a big part, as Logan is going to help her frost her salvaged cake.

“Miss Lizzie?” Logan hadn’t moved from his spot next to the stove. “If it’s all right with you, may Susannah and I make the frosting for the cake?”

He knew how to make frosting? And again, he included the little girl.

“Thank you. Susannah, why don’t you pull out the cookbook for chocolate that your grandma and I like, and you and Logan will be in charge?”

“Oh yay! The Hershey’s Cookbook? They have the best frosting recipe.”

Yes, in 1934 Hershey’s had published a cookbook, so it would have been well loved and used in the Double E Ranch kitchen in 1950.

And Nestlé’s Toll House cookies weren’t far behind, as Nestlé acquired the rights to the original recipe in 1939. By World War II, the cookies were a staple included in packages sent to US servicemen overseas. Do you think they’d mind that Elizabeth called her version Victory cookies? Though they had nothing to do with the war but a little victory right at home.

Have you ever renamed a favorite recipe just for your family for fun?

I hope you enjoy When the South Wind Blows, the final book in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. Maybe with a cup of tea and a chocolate chip cookie to go along with it.

Blessings.

Barbara

My Impressions

“Always remember, little one, what you’ve been rescued from. Go to your new family and live with joy.”

The above words are a part of the play in which Susannah and Elizabeth perform, in When the South Wind Blows by Barbara A. Curtis. I chose these words as my teaser because, after reading the novel, I can picture God saying this to us, His children. What freedom can be found as we realize the depth of His love and the forgiveness He offers, as He places us in His family. Found family, freedom, forgiveness, second chances, and being oneself are all tag words for this historical romance, #4 in Blooms of the Bitterbrush. 

An aspiring 1950 NYC Broadway actress, Liesel Rosette Roberts, née Elizabeth Canton, abruptly leaves the Broadway scene, fleeing for her life to distant family on the Double E Ranch. Hiding her occupation and her true purpose for being on the ranch leaves hopeful newspaper man Logan Palmer suspicious.

Everyone wants to belong and be accepted. Elizabeth watches the Calloway family interact with genuine, warm love and care for each other. She wishes her own family of origin could be like them. Truly, I liked all the Calloways and Morgans are special, but Lizzie, Miss Eliza, and little Susannah are my faves. We see many characters from past novels, so this series is best read in order. 

Struggling to make his mark on the world, Logan has designs beyond the ranch. Logan’s main job is being a ranch hand, living at the ranch, doing chores, and training horses. He wants desperately to fit in at the ranch, to feel like he is part of the family. Indeed, the family treats him like part of their circle, but Logan can’t feel the love because of his past and lack of ties. Will his obsession of discovering the story of Elizabeth’s past cement his place in the family? Is he really helping,  or “were some stories better left untold?”

A beautiful story of love, trust, danger and a romance that requires putting aside personal gain for others’ good. 

 

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

Notable Quotables: 

“How about we let God do whatever fretting needs to be done?” “Silly, God doesn’t fret.” “No, He doesn’t. So we don’t need to either.” – Elizabeth, Susannah

“We’ve tried to reach out to him, to offer forgiveness, but he wants none of it. But we’ll keep trying.” -Lizzie

“Wasn’t that the story of his life? Always too late or in the wrong place or… Just not good enough.” – (Logan)

“So even though he wasn’t a real member of this family, he loved them and would do whatever he could for them. Including—no, especially—exposing Elizabeth Rose Canton if she was an imposter.” -( Logan)

“…God promises that when the south wind blows through, when its destruction is past, that behind it He sends the quiet by a south wind also.” -Pastor

“‘I spend my days bringing joy to people. With words.’ He’d relate to that, as he dealt with words in his writing. ‘To strangers I’ve never met. To those who feel unseen.’”- Elizabeth

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great! Some fave Truth Nuggets in this story of found family, love, and danger.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 5

Simple Harvest Reads, August 6 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 7

Texas Book-aholic, August 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 9

lakesidelivingsite, August 10

Books Less Travelled, August 11 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 11

DevotedToHope, August 12

Connie’s History Classroom , August 13

Cover Lover Book Review, August 14

Sydney Schmied Books, August 15

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, August 16 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, August 17

Pause for Tales, August 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Barbara 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://gleam.io/oVpBV/when-the-south-wind-blows-celebration-tour-giveaway