Tag: Family

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Love in Time by Penny A. Zeller Review

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: Love in Time

Series: Hollow Creek Series, Bk #3

Author: Penny Zeller

Publisher: Maplebrook Publishing, LLC

Released: December 16, 2025

Genre: Christian historical romance

He’s running from his past.
She’s seeking a better future.

After a long and debilitating illness that leaves Arrosa Chapman with severe weakness necessitating the use of a cane and the threat of future health issues, she determines to make a new life as a nanny for Thad and Emilie Evanson in Hollow Creek, Montana. Away from the city that holds family secrets, Arrosa is content to begin a new life caring for children since she will most likely never marry and have any of her own. She doesn’t expect to meet a handsome and rugged ranch hand named Malachi Callahan, whose kind and gentle nature is just what she longs for after suffering a broken heart.

Malachi Callahan has been given a second chance. He works hard on the Evanson Ranch to prove he’s nothing like his father. What he doesn’t expect is to meet a beautiful and compassionate woman named Arrosa Chapman. It’s not long before his feelings for her go beyond friendship.

When someone from the past finds Malachi and threatens him and the woman he loves, Malachi finds himself in the fight of his life to save them both.

Love in Time is a tender love story that reminds us that God’s timing is always perfect.

Enjoy Love in Time after reading Love in Store and/or Love in Disguise, or enjoy it as a standalone.

Paperback version coming soon.

*Please note: Love in Time is a faith-filled Christian historical romance.**

Other happily-ever after romances by Penny Zeller:

Historical Romance
Love’s New Beginnings
Forgotten Memories
Dreams of the Heart
When Love Comes
Love’s Promise
Once Upon a Christmas
Over the Horizon
Dreams on the Horizon
Beyond the Horizon
Love on the Horizon
Love in Disguise
Love in Store
Love in Time
Love from Afar
Love Unforeseen
Love Most Certain
Levi’s Vow
Heart of Courage
A Christmas to Remember
A Promise to Keep
McKenzie
Freedom’s Flight
An Unexpected Arrival (newsletter subscribers)

Contemporary Romance
Love in the Headlines
Recipe for Love
Under the Mistletoe
Blueprint for Love
Love Under Construction
Henry and Evaline

Romantic Suspense
Unexpected Witness
Unexpected Danger
Unexpected Target
Forgotten Identity
Deadly Secrets
Deadly Schemes

About the Author

Penny Zeller is known for her stories of faith-filled happily ever afters with tender romance, humor, and memorable characters. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications. Today, Penny is a multi-published, award-winning author of over three dozen books. She is also a fitness instructor, loves the outdoors, and is a flower gardening addict. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, reading, running, and playing volleyball. She resides with her husband and two daughters in small-town America and loves to connect with her readers on social media and through her website.

My Impressions

“Maybe what he really sought was a place to belong. A place where those around him accepted him. Even cared about him.”

As with others of Penny Zeller’s Christian historical romances, Love in Time is a poignant story of two souls with different soul needs, wondering if they dare bare their hearts to another. Told with an easy-going style, humor, and real faith lessons that can be applicable to life today, Love in Time captured my heart. 

Secrets from the past is something both Malachi and Arrosa have in common. Why does Arrosa have the manners and memories of high society, yet need to work as a nanny? Why can Malachi never seem to open up about his boyhood experiences to Arrosa, no matter how much she shares with him?

Family. Such an important part of this story. Arrosa is very close to her sister and mother, and even her absent father. Each affects how Arrosa ends up in Hollow Creek. I loved those connections and those of the Evanson family, and how they treat their workers as part of their family. What a positive influence! And then there is Malachi. Doing his best to break free from his original father, he has been searching for belonging ever since. Will he find it on the Everson ranch and with his close friend, Arrosa?

I loved how there are people with physical limitations in the book. This gives the characters a special need to develop perseverance and grit ( and do they!). It also gives others an opportunity, esp. our hero, Malachi, to look for ways to be a special and effective helper. 

There were a few heartbreaking scenes in the novel, plus a few twists that caused me quite a bit of consternation, let alone the characters affected!! 

But what I loved best of all, was couched in this gentle western romance, are Truths the characters learned that we would do well to heed today. “Why was it such a challenge to forget the past? The Lord had given him a future.” This particular truth would’ve been a whole lot easier for Malachi to practice if he didn’t feel tied to his past, and if it didn’t come back to strangle him! And as Arrosa says,  thinking of her past health challenges and how they could affect her future, “I find myself entrenched in trepidation, even though I know the Lord will carry me through whatever I may face.” Arrosa also personally gives me new insight into how frightened my own mother must have been years ago when she contracted Arrosa’s disease. 

I must say, my fave secondary characters are the children, but especially little Mamie. And the barn scene ! Le sigh! True love causes us to do strange and wonderful things!! 

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

Notable Quotables:

“I do know the Lord does have plans for him. He is the God of second chances.” -Arrosa

    “And just remember, you, with the Lord’s help, will make choices in this life. Choices to be like your pa or choices to be just the opposite.” – Barnabas

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Superior! All the feels, all the Truth!

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

    Gathered from the North by Barbara A. Curtis Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Gathered from the North

    Author: Barbara A. Curtis

    Genre: Christian Historical Romance

    Release Date: November 18, 2025

    He survived the war, but he didn’t come home whole. Hope of a ready-made family promises healing—until he learns the truth about his love’s adopted baby.

    Beth Calloway has always longed for a family, but after a childhood marked by loss, she’s learned to live quietly—typing reports at the Boise Foundling Home and keeping her heart carefully tucked away. Until one snowy night, a baby is left on her doorstep. With no room at the orphanage and no one else to help, she takes the risk…never expecting the handsome wounded soldier next door to take notice.

    Recently discharged from the army, Private Timothy McPhearson is a man on a mission. Haunted by his best friend’s death during WWII, he’s determined to uncover the truth—and escape the guilt that won’t let him go. Falling for his grandmother’s quiet tenant and the baby she’s sheltering isn’t part of the plan…but Beth and little Elly Rose begin to chip away at the walls he’s built.

    Just as the three begin to imagine life as a family, a shattering revelation threatens to tear them apart. When the truth about baby Elly Rose comes to light—and danger closes in—Beth must fight to protect the child she’s come to love…even if it means letting go of the man who’s claimed her heart.

    A heart-tugging postwar romance of second chances, found family, and love worth risking everything for.

    Click here to get our copy!

    About the Author

    Barbara A. Curtislives 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

    In Gathered from the North, Mrs. McPhearson’s first step in solving a problem is to sit down with a cup of tea. During the same year of 1945, another tea drinker in real life—Ruth Campbell Bigelow—was enjoying tea in her New York brownstone and experimenting with finding a flavorful blend using black tea, orange rind, and sweet spices. When she hit upon the final recipe, Constant Comment was born, along with the Bigelow Tea Company.

    While flavored teas are easy to find in grocery stores, tea shops, and online now, we can be grateful for Ruth Campbell Bigelow’s days of experimentation in her own kitchen, as Constant Comment was the first specialty tea in the United States. And where did the name come from? When she shared her new tea with others, one reported that this tea “caused nothing but constant comments.”

    I hope you enjoy Gathered from the North—perhaps over a cup of tea, specialty blend or otherwise.

    Blessings!

    Barbara

    My Impressions

    “Elly reminds me that there is hope for the hopeless, that there’s life and still something to live for. Like God is saying through her, ‘I care.’”

    This third book of the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series, Gathered from the North, certainly found a place in my heart. Barbara A. Curtis pens a touching and convicting historical romance that starts in a foundling home in Boise, ID.

    Beth, a young lady who longs for children and family, but feels incompetent in childcare, finds herself an adoptive, single mother. And one whose choice for motherhood ends her romantic liaison as well as her job. She is blessed to have a wonderful landlady, Mrs. MacPhearson. 

    Mrs. MacPhearson, in turn, has a grandson, Timothy, who is returning from the German front near the war’s end. Discharged with a mark against his name as a victim of “combat fatigue,” Timothy can’t find a job. Bitter, searching for the truth that will set him free, he struggles as he remembers the words of his soldier buddy and best friend, Stanley. “Remember those words, Timothy… Praise the Lord for His goodness. Hold on to that.”

    I loved the poignant story of children needing a family, adult children needing acceptance and love, and the wonderful use of twists to craft an amazing story. Both Grandma MacPhearson’s house and the ranch are painted as being filled with a love that envelops and invites one in. I also loved the reminders to look for reasons to praise God, even in the dark times. As Timothy and Beth are reminded multiple times of blessings that should help them trust God through their next trial, I realized I have the same problem.  I had to admit as I read of the characters’ trust struggles, how little I trust the Lord, even after seeing examples of His caring in the past. 

    While the young people are the stars of the book, it is the older generation that provides the wisdom, love, guidance, and even help that enable both Beth and Timothy to become all God wants them to be. Just as Beth tells Timothy, “Every man’s efforts count.” So, in life, every one has a part to play to help others. 

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

    Notable Quotables:

    “Everyone needs to be loved.” – Beth

    “some wounds went too deep for words.”

    “This is what neighbors do for each other. What Christ has commanded us to do. To serve others and to love them. We show our love by our service.”  Mrs. Connor

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Magnificent!! Beautiful story that provides great faith reminders!

    Blog Stops

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 3

    Sydney Schmied Books, December 3

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 4

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 5

    Texas Book-aholic, December 6

    Life on Chickadee Lane, December 7

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 8

    For Him and My Family, December 9

    Simple Harvest Reads, December 10 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

    Bizwings Blog, December 11

    Connie’s History Classroom, December 12

    lakesidelivingsite, December 13

    Cover Lover Book Review, December 13

    Devoted To Hope, December 14

    Stories By Gina, December 15 (Author Interview)

    Holly’s Book Corner, December 15

    Pause for Tales, December 16

    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://promosimple.com/ps/3e368/gathered-from-the-north-celebration-tour-giveaway

    BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Misty M Beller Books, Purchase

    Saving the Mountain Man’s Legacy by Misty M. Beller Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Saving the Mountain Man’s Legacy

    Author: Misty M. Beller

    Genre: Christian Historical Romance

    Release date: April 29, 2025

    In the wild mountains of the Montana Territory, the Coulter ranch is a place of family, second chances…and a hidden fortune.

    Sampson Coulter is determined to undo his disastrous mistake that is jeopardizing his family’s future. Now he’s deeply embedded in the corrupt mining empire of the ruthless Mick McPharland, and has earned the trust of Jedidiah, the brutal right-hand man. The threat reaches much farther than his own family, and he knows he must dismantle the operation from within…or die trying.

    Grieving the loss of her mother, Jewel Hampton is shocked to discover a newborn baby on her doorstep. When she seeks help from her father, Jedidiah, she never imagines he’ll force her to marry Sampson Coulter, the kind man who only gave her a ride to town. Though her father has always been willing to pass her off, at least she has Sampson’s promise to protect her and the baby. It doesn’t hurt that he’s the most handsome man she’s ever seen.

    Marrying Jedidiah’s daughter adds an impossible complication to Sampson’s mission. It seems he can’t have it all—redemption for himself, justice for the victims of the corruption, protection for the innocent…and a life with the woman and babe he’s coming to love.From a USA Today bestselling author comes the gripping series finale filled with high-stakes danger, a marriage of convenience, an instant family, and love that heals wounded hearts.

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Misty M. Belleris a USA Todaybestselling author with over 1 million books sold. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

    Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

    Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

    Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

    More from Misty

    Hello Friends!

    I’m BEYOND excited to share the finale of the Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series with you! This is Sampson’s story, the black sheep of the family. I thought it might be fun to give you a taste of one of my favorite scenes in the book:

    ***

    Sampson eyed the woman he’d been told to marry. “I’d feel better if you and Ruby weren’t at the mercy of your father. I’d rather give you my name and make sure you have a nice place to live—a safe place. I’ll make sure you want for nothing.” She studied him with furrowed brow. He let his eyes plead with her as he said this last part. “Please consider it. For Ruby’s sake, if nothing else.”

    Her expression didn’t change, she simply…stared at him. What thoughts churned in that mind of hers? Did she believe him?

    Or did she think he was on her father’s side, trying to manipulate her into giving him control?

    Show her the truth, Lord.

    At last, her mouth parted as she prepared to speak. Her voice came out hesitant. “Would you expect to…live with us? Like a real husband?”

    He shook his head, fighting off the burn in his cheeks at what she really asked. “You can live wherever you like. My family has a ranch a day’s ride from here. You’re welcome to move in there. Or if you want to be on your own, near a town, we’ll find a place you like.” He forced himself to meet her gaze again. They had to be honest with each, and he couldn’t let embarrassment get in the way of anything she needed to ask. “I won’t expect anything from you. Nothing like in a usual marriage.”

    Her shoulders sagged a little, as if in relief. But a small furrow remained between her brows. “Why are you doing this? Why would you willingly burden yourself with us?”

    He let himself consider her question. Why didhe want her to say yes so much? He didn’t owe her anything. She was the daughter of his enemy—kin to the man who stole a year’s worth of sapphires from his family.

    But this woman was different. Nothing like Jedidiah. And for some reason, he craved to keep her safe. To protect her from the evil who’d sired her. She didn’t deserve to be at that man’s mercy. Nor did the sweet child.

    Sampson could help her so easily. Not only did he have money from his share of the sapphires, which he’d saved for years, he also had his pay from McPharland.

    He swallowed as he tried to put all this into words. “I can help you.” His voice graveled with how much he wanted to do that. And then he let himself say the real truth. “And maybe in helping you, I can make up for my own mistakes.”

    ***

    I pray you love Sampson and Grace’s story in Saving the Mountain Man’s Legacy!

    Blessings!

    Misty

    My Impressions

    “Once they arrived, she’d be back under her father’s protection. The thought almost made him spit. Jedidiah was no protector. He was a bully. A lunatic. A man without a soul.”

    I’ve been waiting for this conclusion to the Brothers of Sapphire Ranch by Misty M. Beller, for a while! Saving the Mountain Man’s Legacy is Sampson Coulter ‘s story. Sampson is the Coulter brother that has gone AWOL from the family compound to work for the enemy, Mick McPharland, in his mines. None of the Coulters can understand why, nor why Sampson has refused their efforts to bring him home, out of that extremely dangerous situation. Both Mick and his foreman, Jedidiah, are known for their evil, cruel ways. 

    When Sampson is out on a mission for Jedidiah, he meets a very young lady with a baby, out in the elements. She claims she is looking for her father and his protection. Only her father is Jedidiah. Having seen violent beatings and other crimes performed at the word of Jedidiah, something stirs within Sampson to provide protection for this poor, alone, young woman. Help that he is sure Jedidiah is not about to provide. 

    Finding out that Sampson has rescued his daughter, Grace, and baby Ruby, Jedidiah should be grateful. Instead, he forces Sampson and Grace to marry, yet pays no attention to his newly arrived daughter. 

    Knowing Jedidiah is up to no good, esp. aimed at the Coulters, Sampson walks into a bad situation.

    When Sampson, determined to fix his past mistakes, finds himself in an impossible situation, he refuses to try to help Grace. He tells his brother, 

     “She needs someone better than me.”

    To which his brother, wise beyond his  years, replies, “You might be right about that. But you’re her husband. Your job now is to become the man she needs.”

    “None of us are ever going to be good enough. Not on our own. That’s why we need God and each other, why we’re stronger together. You can’t do this alone, so it’s a good thing you came home.”- Miles 

    Grace, too, plays the independent card. If only she does this or that, she can fix the situation for Sampson and all the Coulters. After a while, I wanted to shake these two. They are surrounded by so many loving, accepting, warm, and forgiving people. Yet they insist on going it alone. It will take a lot for these two to realize Someone wants to be in on their plans, guiding their footsteps, and that He has given them lots of helpful family!

    I only wished we could have had more of Miles’s story.  I really liked a totally unexpected twist as the action gets hot. I will miss the Coulters, but fortunately, Ms. Beller is starting a new series, the Lords of the Rockies. 

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

    Notable Quotables:

    “God loved them, from the very beginning. And He never stopped loving them, trying to reach them, even to the end. Yet He gives us free choice to accept His love or push it away.”

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Great! I have enjoyed reading about the Brothers of Sapphire Ranch! I am sorry their stories are finished!

    Blog Stops

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 31

    lakesidelivingsite, May 31

    Book Looks by Lisa, June 1

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 2

    Simple Harvest Reads, June 3 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

    Melissa’s Bookshelf, June 3

    Texas Book-aholic, June 4

    Betti Mace, June 5

    The Important Things in Life: God, books, & chocolate , June 5

    Locks, Hooks and Books, June 6

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 7

    Holly’s Book Corner , June 7

    Cover Lover Book Review, June 8

    Devoted To Hope, June 9

    Blossoms and Blessings, June 9

    Library Lady’s Kid Lit, June 10

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 11

    Pause for Tales, June 11

    Books You Can Feel Good About, June 12

    Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 13

    Mary Hake, June 13

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Misty 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.

    http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54233

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

    Embers of Truth by Avrie Swan Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Embers of Truth

    Author: Avrie Swan

    Genre: Christian Historical Romance

    Release date: April 15, 2025

    A fiery heroine teams up with a gruff detective to catch a thief, but the real danger may be trusting each other.

    With her family nearing destitution and her home on the brink of foreclosure, Carina Clarke has little left to lose. Yet in one fateful evening, the 1871 Peshtigo Fire destroys the last of all she holds dear and separates her from her sister and friend. Carina vows to find them—even if it means moving to a different city and taking up work at a textile mill while she searches.

    Oliver Ramhurst is determined to make his father proud of his work as a Pinkerton detective. His assignment to capture a thief at a textile mill in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, could be the opportunity he needs—if the feisty Miss Clarke will stay out of his way. When the clever woman offers to help him ferret out the culprit, Oliver reluctantly agrees. But does she want more from him than she’s saying?

    As the danger grows and they draw closer to discovering the true identity of the thief, Carina and Oliver realize that nobody is who they seem. Carina must decide who can be trusted and who may be a villain in disguise—for when the hour grows dark, trust may be the only thing that can save her.

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Avrie Swan is a Christian author and avid reader with a love for all things historical. Having grown up exploring antique stores and museums, she eventually decided to combine her interest in history with her love for writing and began working on her first full-length novel at the age of fourteen. She especially enjoys writing stories that focus on themes of family, faith, and growth through difficult times.

    When Avrie is not writing, she is watching old movies, collecting antique books, and hunting for agates. A native Wisconsinite, she enjoys spending the cold winters indoors with her cat on her lap and a good book in her hand.

    More from Avrie

    Hello, folks!

    What do you do when you run out of your favorite type of book at the local library? Well, in the case of sixteen-year-old me, you sit down and try to write one yourself. Thus was born the first iteration of Embers of Truth, followed shortly thereafter by the second and third. After countless revisions and many cups of coffee, I finally achieved what I wanted—a book filled with mystery and action, with a main character tenacious enough to weather the storms I tossed her way. Carina’s story was a joy to write, and I know sixteen-year-old me would be happy to read it if she could.

    In this first book of The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles, I decided to explore the theme of trust and learning to accept help. Carina has difficulty trusting others, an issue born out of past experiences. However, as she comes to learn, we cannot let bad experiences affect the way we see others. Have you ever unjustly judged someone because of something that happened to you, even if it was unintentional? I have. It’s easy to do!

    In addition to exploring themes of trust, Embers of Truth also examines what it means to put our goals before helping others. Oliver is determined to impress his father, and while he takes the mill case to help the workers there, he also secretly hopes it will finally make his father approve of his occupation. Putting our needs above others is a part of human nature, but that doesn’t mean we can’t change. Watching Oliver realize this is one of my favorite parts of the story.

    Much like Oliver, I also realized several things while writing Embers of Truth. The first was that I would never handwrite a novel again, a decision my right wrist thanked me for. The second was that God is incredibly, incredibly gracious. The third and final thing I realized was that I would have made a terrible Pinkerton detective. I’m much more suited to sitting bundled up under warm blankets with a book than going undercover to find a criminal!

    I encourage you, dear reader, to follow along with Oliver and Carina as they traverse snowy Milwaukee and decide whether you could be a detective. Make sure to curl up with a nice cup of coffee or tea and a blanket as you enjoy this intriguing, romance-filled story. God bless you!

    Sincerely,

    Avrie Swan

    My Impressions

    “…you are not nothing. You are a child of God, and if you keep that fact at the front of your heart and mind, there will be no circumstance you cannot face.”

    Avrie Swan has produced a historical romance set around the Peshtigo fire, with two socially mismatched main characters. What makes the story work well for me is the fact that although society doesn’t claim the same divisions today, people always have a way of dividing themselves into groups they believe superior to others. Oliver, son of a prominent Chicago judge,  is  a Pinkerton detective tasked with discovering the thief at a textile mill in Milwaukee.  He meets spunky, alert, loom girl Carina there. Carina is working at the mill to earn money as she searches for her sister following the Peshtigo fire. Somehow, Carina twists Oliver’s arm into allowing her to assist in his factory investigation. 

    I enjoyed this constant action, tense story.  Swan provides a good feel of the dangers and hopelessness of the common laborer in a mill job. She also brings forth elements of humor in Mrs. Fields ( I can just see her twinkling eyes) and contrasts the love of family that Carina once enjoyed and Oliver never knew. I appreciated the faith emphasis, whether it was about forgiveness (“There’s always a chance for forgiveness. You simply have to ask for it.”) or about giving every aspect of our lives over to God. (“Every once in a while, I find myself trying too hard to control the circumstances of my life. It’s then that I have to stand back and let God take over.”- Mrs. Fields) Relationships between characters are a crucial part and driving force of this novel. 

    The romance between Carina and Oliver surely begins on a very rocky note. Definitely enemies to lovers trope. And there were times I cringed at the duo as a detective partnership! When the guilty party is discovered, I realized I would have made a horrible agent. No, I would not have put up with the cost that Carina and Oliver must pay to ferret out the truth. 

    While the Peshtigo fire does play an important part in the story, most of the story takes place in Milwaukee. 

    Loose ends at the story’s finish beg for more books in the series, which are expected. I’ll be waiting! 

    Notable Quotables:

    “In the end, we are all the same, regardless of money or status. What defines us isn’t the clothing we wear or the manner in which we speak. It’s the way we treat others that truly shows who we are inside.” – Pastor Lane

    “did Jesus judge all men based on the actions of one? Did He not forgive even the ones who wronged Him?”- Mrs. Fields

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Great! I’m looking forward to book 2 of The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles!

    Blog Stops

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 1

    Holly’s Book Corner, May 2

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 2

    Texas Book-aholic, May 3

    Blogging With Carol, May 4

    Simple Harvest Reads, May 5 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

    Locks, Hooks and Books, May 6

    Blossoms and Blessings, May 6

    Book Looks by Lisa, May 7

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 8

    Betti Mace, May 9

    Stories By Gina, May 10 (Author Interview)

    Mary Hake, May 10

    Cover Lover Book Review, May 11

    Pause for Tales, May 12

    Devoted To Hope, May 12

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 13

    For Him and My Family, May 14

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Avrie 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.

    http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54210

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

    Specters in the Glass House by Jaime Jo Wright Review

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Title: Specters in the Glass House

    Author: Jaime Jo Wright

    Publisher: Bethany House

    Released: October, 2024

    Genre: Christian Suspense, Gothic Romance

    An ominous butterfly house. A sinister legacy. An untraceable killer. 

    In 1921, Marian Arnold, the heiress to a brewing baron’s empire, seeks solace in the glass butterfly house on her family’s Wisconsin estate as Prohibition and the deaths of her parents cast a long shadow over her shrinking world. When Marian’s sanctuary is invaded by nightmarish visions, she grapples with the line between hallucinations of things to come and malevolent forces at play in the present. With dead butterflies as the killer’s ominous signature, murders unfold at a steady pace. Marian, fearful she might be next, enlists the help of her childhood friend Felix, a war veteran with his own haunted past.

    In the present day, researcher Remy Shaw becomes entangled in an elderly biographer’s quest to uncover the truth behind Marian Arnold’s mysterious life and the unsolved murders linked to an infamous serial killer. Joined by Marian’s great-great-grandson, can Remy expose the evil that lurks beneath broken wings? Or will the dark legacy surrounding the manor and its glass house destroy yet another generation?

    “Wright is in a class by herself.”–Library Journal

    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 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

    “It is all right to be afraid…“It’s what we do with that fear that’s important. What we allow it to shape us into.”

    Specters in the Glass House by Jaime Jo Wright carries some  heavier themes than some of her other books. In this dual timeline, Marian Arnold, a brewery heiress whose family lost everything due to Prohibition,is determined to discover the secrets behind her mysterious mother’s death. In the present day, Remy Crenshaw is a research assistant to famous author Elton Floyd, and they are housed in the summer home that formerly belonged to Marion Arnold and her mother before her. 

    Ghosts, alcohol, hearing voices, murders and near murders, beautiful butterflies used for nefarious purposes, a resurgence of the Butterfly Butcher years after he went  quiet, lends to a great spooky atmosphere. An undertone of need is created in some of the characters as we see abject fear, a need for acceptance unfulfilled, a foster child who is seen in only a stereo-typical, negative way. 

    Fortunately, Wright also includes Hope in her stories. When Remy asks if her faith is just blindly acceptance, Abigail replies, “Not blind. No. Just belief. Belief in the evidence God has given us of His existence. Belief in the personal experiences I’ve already had—the blessings. Belief that, in the end, He will make all things good.”

    I found it quite interesting in reading the prologue and author’s notes that the author mentions the Frederick Meijer Gardens butterfly house in Grand Rapids. Having been there, the picture o the front of the book took me there immediately. It is interesting how Jamie Jo Wright can take something so beautiful ( a butterfly house) and use it as a thing of evil and fear. But isn’t that exactly what the enemy does so often in our lives? Things that should be beautiful turn into things that destroy us. 

    I don’t think I’ve ever been caught off guard by Wright’s sense of humor before. I just don’t remember it poking its head up at crazy, desperate times. Just a pinch, like salt in a cookie recipe. Enough to off-set the heavy Gothic vibes. With the amount of heebie- jeebies that Wright’s words can produce, the humor is a welcome mini-reprieve before the next big scare. 

    I am still mulling over the issues some of the characters present. These issues keep them from being accepted in society in the historical story, yet I have to wonder how much more acceptance and understanding is typically offered in today’s society. 

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

    Notable Quotables:

    “Ambrose tapped Remy’s shoulder just over her heart. “And there’s a lot of good in there. I think it’s been protected. I think God has something bigger for you in mind.” Remy looked down at her hands in her lap. “I don’t know how to find it.” Ambrose was quiet for a moment, and then she answered, “He finds you, Remy. In the chaos, He finds you.””

    “You’re richer for the pain, for the fear. In its twisted agony, God makes it so that life becomes deeper, more meaningful, and you can look into your future and hear the voices of the generations to come and ask yourself, What will I leave behind for them? Fear?… Or faith?” Felix took a sip of his water, then breathed deeply. “I chose faith—even though I’m still very much afraid most days.”

    “Sometimes coffee really was all a person had to make the bad feel a little bit better.”

    ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Misty M Beller Books, Purchase

    Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife by Misty M. Beller Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife (Brothers of Sapphire Ranch Book 6)

    Author: Misty M. Beller

    Genre:Christian Historical Romance

    Release date: November 19, 2024

    In the wild mountains of the Montana Territory, the Coulter ranch is a place of family, second chances…and a hidden fortune. 

    Determined to find his missing brother and catch the elusive mastermind behind the theft of his family’s precious sapphires, Gil Coulter embarks on a solo mission to the remote town where the criminal is rumored to reside. As Gil scours the surrounding wilderness for the thief’s hidden lair, he crosses paths with a captivating young woman who harbors secrets of her own.

    Jess McPharland has spent her life hidden in the mountains, doing her best to stay separate from her family’s business. Yet the secret she’s just discovered will change her life forever. She offers a silent prayer, pleading for a man to help her conceal the truth she’s only just discovered. As if in answer, Gil Coulter rides through the trees, seeking the very criminal Jess calls Father. Now she must find a way to ask this stranger for the ultimate favor—to pose as her husband and shield her from the consequences of a change she won’t be able to hide much longer.

    As Gil and Jess navigate the treacherous landscape and the greater danger from her father and his cronies, they find themselves caught in a web of danger, deception, and unexpected attraction. With each passing moment, the stakes grow higher, and the line between pretense and truth blurs. Will the love growing between them be enough to protect Jess’s secret and lead them to the justice Gil seeks, or will the truth shatter everything they’ve risked their lives to build?

    From a USA Today bestselling author comes a mountain saga filled with high-stakes adventure, a pretend marriage, a secret baby, and love that heals wounded hearts.

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Misty M. Belleris a USA Today bestselling author with over 1 million books sold. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

    Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

    Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

    Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

    More from Misty

    In Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife, the heroine and her father live in a cave which is part of an intricate catacomb hidden inside Montana mountain.

    I LOVED researching cave systems, especially those in Montana, and I was amazed at how many extensive tunnels and caverns have been discovered!

    One of the most well-known is Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, located between Butte and Bozeman. This spectacular limestone cave system features a series of caverns adorned with incredible rock formations. These days, visitors can take guided tours to marvel at the intricate stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and helictites that have formed over thousands of years. The cave is also home to several species of bats.

    Another notable cave system is the Bighorn Caverns, situated in the Pryor Mountains south of Billings. This complex network of caves extends for over 14 miles, making it one of the most significant cave systems in the state. Experienced cavers can explore winding passages, underground streams, and vast chambers with unique mineral formations.

    The Bighorn Caverns are very similar to how I imagine the cave system was that Jess lived in. As amazing as the tunnels are to explore, I’m not sure I’d want to live in such darkness. What about you?

    I pray you enjoy Gil and Jess’s story in Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife! J

    Blessings!

    Misty

    My Impressions

    “She would always be Mick McPharland’s daughter, and he’d never let her escape his control.”

    Misty M. Beller has done it again! She has developed another fresh but related Coulter brother story to add another facet to the diamond that is Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series. Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife is #6 in this series, and it tells the narrative of Gil Coulter and Jess McFarland in 1870s Montana Territory. ( Do yourself a huge favor and read this series in order to avoid spoilers!)

    Gil happens upon Jess on a mountainside, where she promises to help him find his missing brother, Sampson. Her price is that he help her escape her father’s control. To explain Coulter’s presence to her conniving, mean-spirited father and henchman, Gil and Jess pretend to be married.  As Jess focuses on escaping, Gil insists on exploring and searching for his brother, plus the Coulter family’s jewels that were stolen recently. 

    This is a story about love and loyalty that give unselfishly and even when it hurts. It’s about a daughter who understands how wicked her father is, yet because of her need for security and affection, craves her father’s approval, knowing it will never come. Beller shows us how an earthly father without love for his child makes it difficult for that child to understand God as a good father. “It seemed impossible to think of Someone Who loved her, Who planned good things for her—hope and a future—and also think of Him as a Father.” She also shows God’s acceptance, forgiveness,  and love for people who turn from their wrong ways to follow Him. 

    All these truths are wrapped up in a beautiful, romantic, and achingly sad story. There is plenty of action and suspense to keep the reader turning those pages to find out what happens next.  

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

    Notable Quotables:

    “God forgave you the very first time you asked. He doesn’t hold your past against you.”

    “God was with them. He would make a way, even when there seemed no options.”

    “Father was as different from Gil as the darkness of the cave from noontime sunshine.”

    “I was a possession to him, someone he could use for his advantage.”

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Magnificent! Another thrilling installment of the Coulter brothers’ stories, with the clear promise of more adventures to come!

    Blog Stops

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 22

    Melissa’s Bookshelf, November 22

    Pause for Tales, November 23

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 23

    Texas Book-aholic, November 24

    Blossoms and Blessings, November 24

    Lighthouse Academy Blog, November 25(Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

    lakesdielivingsite, November 26

    Locks, Hooks and Books, November 27

    For Him and My Family, November 27

    Devoted To Hope, November 28

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29

    Jeanette’s Thoughts, November 29

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 30

    Book Looks by Lisa, December 1

    Holly’s Book Corner, December 1

    Betti Mace, December 2

    Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 3

    Cover Lover Book Review, December 3

    Books You Can Feel Good About, December 4

    Life on Chickadee Lane, December 5

    Mary Hake, December 5

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Misty 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.

    http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54105

    ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Misty M Beller Books, Purchase

    Winning the Mountain Man’s Love by Misty M. Beller Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Winning the Mountain Man’s Love (Brothers of Sapphire Ranch, Book 5)

    Author: Misty M. Beller

    Genre: Christian Historical Romance

    Release date: September 3, 2024

    In the wild mountains of the Montana Territory, the Coulter ranch is a place of family, second chances…and a hidden fortune. 

    As the second brother of six, Jonah Coulter has no shortage of family, yet he’s more than ready to find a woman who doesn’t see him as her second choice. Haunted by the loss of his sister Lucy and the rejection of his former fiancée, he sets out to find the aunt of a lost child his family has taken in. Maybe reuniting the girl with her only remaining family will give him the purpose he craves.

    After fleeing her past and the man who killed her late husband, Patience Whitman has reinvented herself in the untamed Montana Territory. Relying on her gambling skills to survive, she’s determined to earn enough to buy the life she dreams of—a bit of land and a home of her very own, far enough away from people that she can finally find peace. But then a man shows up in town searching for her and says his family has taken in her niece, Patsy’s perfectly laid plans go awry. If Anna really is here in the Montana Territory, Patience can’t abandon the only family she has left.

    As Jonah and Patsy navigate the treacherous landscape of their pasts and little Anna’s future, they must confront their deepest fears and learn to trust each other. But when Patsy’s dangerous past catches up to them, they must risk everything to claim the happily ever after they both crave.

    From a USA Today bestselling author comes a mountain family saga filled with high stakes adventure, a surprise guardianship, and love that heals wounded hearts.

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Misty M. Belleris a USA Todaybestselling author with over 1 million books old. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

    Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

    Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

    Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

    More from Misty

    A glimpse into our heroine’s world

    In Winning the Mountain Man’s Love, Patience’s work as a gambler in the mining town Missoula Mills plays a significant role in shaping her character and her journey. But what was the reality of gambling in this time and place?

    During the 1870s, the Montana Territory was a wild, untamed land, attracting adventurers, miners, and those seeking to make their fortune by profiting from the miners. With the influx of men and money, gambling became a prevalent pastime and a lucrative business. Saloons, gaming houses, and even street corners became hubs for various games of chance, including poker, faro, and dice.

    For many, gambling offered a quick path to wealth, but it also led to addiction, debt, and desperation. The lack of regulation and high stakes often attracted unsavory characters, making the gambling scene a dangerous and unpredictable world.

    Women like Patience, who found themselves caught up in this world, faced even greater challenges. They were often viewed as mere entertainers or worse, and their involvement in gambling was seen as a mark of moral failure. However, for some women, gambling provided a means of survival in a society that offered few opportunities for financial independence.

    Despite the risks and the societal stigma, gambling continued to thrive in the Montana Territory throughout the 1870s. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that anti-gambling laws and reformers began to push back against the pervasive gaming culture.

    Thankfully, Patience didn’t have to wait so long to leave the gambling world behind her, but that life certainly left its mark on her. I won’t share any spoilers, but I pray you enjoy Patience and Jonah’s story in Winning the Mountain Man’s Love!

    Blessings!

    Misty

    My Impressions

    “He knew what it was to be judged for the surface of things, for the mistakes and missteps. He knew what it was to need someone to look deeper, to see the true heart beneath.”

    Misty Beller writes great historical fiction, using the Rocky Mountains and frontier times for her background setting. Winning the Mountain Man’s Love is the fifth book in the Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series and tells Jonah’s story. Because each story builds a little more of the reader’s understanding of the unique occupation and relationship of the brothers, I suggest reading these books in order. You will be happy for the answers found in each new book!

    That said, Jonah has lost at life and love…again. To take his mind off this, he volunteers to be the one to leave the Montana territory ranch in search of little Anna’s aunt. All 8-year-old Anna can tell them is that her aunt’s name is “Patsy” and she has very red hair. Plus, her aunt came west to be married. 

    Little does Jonah realize that in trying to bring healing to a new “family” member, he will bring heartache to himself and many of those he loves. I feel for Jonah. Because he has been unlucky in love, he feels like he is inferior in the eyes of women. Because he is never quite perfect enough in his family’s eyes, and is an easy target for their mocking laughter, great furrows of hurt have been plowed deep into his soul. 

    When Jonah meets Patience, he quickly recognizes she may be Anna’s aunt. But she has seen so much meanness and abuse from men, she’s not about to trust another, even though Jonah seems so kind. She wants “freedom from the control of any man. Even this one, as tempting as he was right now. He wouldn’t always be like this. No man could be trusted.” Can Jonah convince her he can see past her surface, into her soul, like he himself longs to be seen? 

    Yikes! The whole social question that is still very alive today- is a child better off with family, because they are related, or might they be better off where they have been placed for a while, and are loved? What is in the best interest of the child? I wanted to shake Patience a few times with her insistence on following her path. Maybe call out the social workers, too!!

    Patience having two different names just about drove me crazy. I wanted her to be called one name or the other. But maybe, the way she seems to teeter back and forth on a couple of major decisions, the double name is on purpose? 

    As always, just when it seems we could be ready for a happy settlement, the “Oregon Trail” music cues, and disaster strikes. This sets us up for more excitement, more chances to forgive, and more chances to restore relationships.  This also gives us a headstart on yet another brother’s story. 

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

    Notable Quotables:

    “God wants more than anything for us to turn to Him when trials come. He wants us to hide in His protection when it seems nothing can go right. To let Him show us just how much He loves us. He does hate sin, but He’s not a God of punishment. He’s made a way for us to be free, so that when we come to Him and ask His forgiveness, our sin disappears. Then He wraps us in His arms…and loves us.”

    “It seems like scratching at a sore again and again for years would make it hard to heal.”

    “Don’t let fear hold you back from reaching for something better.”

    “But just ’cause you’re good at something don’t mean it’s where you belong forever.”

    My Rating

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Great! I’m always ready for the next Misty M. Beller story!

    Blog Stops

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 3

    Melissa’s Bookshelf, September 4

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 4

    Life on Chickadee Lane, September 5

    Truth and Grace HomeschoolAcademy, September 6

    Devoted To Hope, September 6

    Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 7 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

    Texas Book-aholic, September 8

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 8

    Locks, Hooks and Books, September 9

    lakesidelivingsite, September 10

    Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 10

    Books You Can Feel Good About, September 11

    Stories By Gina, September 12 (Author Interview)

    For Him and My Family, September 12

    Blossoms and Blessings, September 13

    Holly’s Book Corner, September 14

    Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 14

    Cover Lover Book Review, September 15

    An Author’s Take, September 16

    Pause for Tales, September 16

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away he grand prize package 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.

    http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5430/

    ARC, BLOG, Just Read Tours, Kindle, Purchase

    Mackinac Island Beacon by Carrie Fancett Pagels Review

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Title: Mackinac Island Beacon

    Series: Mackinac Island Romances, Bk 3

    Author: Carrie Fancett Pagels

    Publisher: Hearts Overcoming Press

    Released: April 2024

    Plans hatched in 1897 bring friends and family from far distances toward Mackinac Island’s new twin beacons—the Round Island Lighthouse and the Social Affirmation Society’s training/retreat center. A missing daughter, a missing godchild—two young women’s lives have intertwined in ways they could never have known. The solution to both of their mysteries is revealed when all hope has been lost by those seeking them.

    Is romance out of the question for Val and Susan, when their hearts begin to heal? Will Paul and Lawrence, friends from their childhoods, brought to the island for work, be their beacons of hope? Can God bring all their paths together or will too many obstacles stand in their way?

    About the Author


    Carrie Fancett Pagels, Ph.D., writes stories about overcoming with God’s help (including a Romantic Times Top Pick inspirational novel). She has 25 published fiction books. Carrie is an ECPA-bestselling award-winning author. She won the Maggie Award for Excellence medallion. Twenty-five years as a psychologist didn’t “cure” her overactive imagination. She’s the mother of two and married to the love of her life.

    My Impressions

    “Point is—you don’t have to be blood kin to make a family.You just need love.And plenty of it.” He tapped the Bible. “And God’s blessing to cover you all.”

    If you’ve ever been to Michigan, you might know that Mackinac Island is considered one of the state’s treasured gems. We love to visit “the Island” and St. Ignace, so I love to read Carrie Fancett Pagels’s books that never fail to allow me to visit again, at least in spirit. Mackinac Island Beacon is directly related to the novella, The Sugarplum Ladies. It’s been a while since I read that one, so I was happy to see a list of characters at the front of the book!

    The main part of the novel takes place on Mackinac Island and the tiny lighthouse island near it, Round Island Lighthouse in 1897. One young woman without a family, Susan Johnson, works at a Catholic orphanage on the Island ( Mackinac Island). The other, Valerie Fillman, travels from her tiny lighthouse island home, which she’d never left without family ( she’s 20!) to get medicine for her critically ill family.

    In God’s providential timing, a young widower friend of Susan’s and his three-year-old daughter Hetty come to man the lighthouse, while a link to the Island’s past, Lawrence Zumbrun, comes to coach a young, loose-lipped Olympic hopeful. There were an awful lot of moving pieces in this story-puzzle to piece together, and sometimes I wished there were a few less characters to keep track of. I did enjoy the mysteries(there was more than one), the gentle romances, and the joi de vivre that both Hetty and Jack added to the story. I wished I could picture which house on the Island is “the Butterfly House, ” along with a few other named “cottages.” I think I would have enjoyed a map.

    Valerie is very courageous to return to the lighthouse, where tragedy and an ugly past exist, in order to help Paul with Hetty. Yet, Val feels all alone, until God speaks to her heart. “Mine. You are mine. Always mine, and I am here, too.”

    All in all, a good story that shows God’s providence over and over, His setting the orphans in families, and taking care of his children. These ingredients, tossed with a bit of humor, make for an enjoyable armchair trip to Mackinac.

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

    Notable Quotables:

    “But God was bigger than all his problems.”

    “God was a loving god not one intent on inflicting maximum punishment, as Mum had insisted.”

    “Pretty is as pretty does, but a woman with intelligence and good character can outshine them all.”

    “God has gifted us all with something to bring glory to the kingdom. “

    “Funny how perceptions change depending upon where you are situated.” “Or your life situation.”

    “Yes, there were forces that worked against the Lord, but His will was never for evil.”

    “I crept into a crack in the rocks that protected my heart, and I’ve hidden there. Was it time to come out? To be free?”

    “The good book says God gives us double for our trouble sometimes.”

    My Rating

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Great! Enjoyable “trip” to Mackinac Island

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

    The Girl from the Hidden Forest by Hannah Linder Review and Giveaway

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Book: Girl from the Hidden Forest

    Author: Hannah Linder

    Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical / Regency Romance

    Release date: May, 2024

    The nightmares may free her…but destroy the man she loves.

    Enjoy another Gothic Style Regency from Hannah Linder.

    Eliza Ellis has stayed hidden in Balfour Forest for as long as she can remember. Perhaps her only friends are the trees, or her little dog, or her story-telling father called Captain. But at least she is safe from the cruel world outside, a world Captain has warned her against and protected her from.

    That is, until a handsome stranger named Felton Northwood invades her quiet forest and steals her away. Why does he tell such lies? Why does he insist that her name is Miss Eliza Gillingham, daughter of a viscount, who disappeared fourteen years ago after the murder of her own mother? A murder Eliza is said to have witnessed.

    When Felton returns Eliza to Monbury Manor and reunites her with a man who is told to be her father, all she remembers are the strange nightmares that have plagued her since childhood. Why have they suddenly grown worse? Are the answers hidden inside her own mind?

    As danger mounts and lethal attempts are made on her life, Eliza and Felton must work together to uncover the identity of a killer who has stayed silent for fourteen years. When she finally uncovers the horrendous memories trapped in her mind, will divulging the truth cost her the man she loves—and both of their lives?

    Click here to get your copy!

    About the Author

    Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, a 2023 Angel Book Award third place winner, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjolele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, square dancing, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse.

    More from Hannah

    Everyone has been asking me for years: “Can you see yourself in any of your characters?” I guess I’m in everything, interwoven in all of the sentences. Pieces of me are scattered in the settings. Traits and quirks and secret thoughts are dispersed into the minds and souls of my characters.But I always felt the need to say no. I don’t see myself in my characters.

    Perhaps because, in the past, so many of my heroines have been so different than me. Ella Pemberton (Beneath His Silence)—outlandish and stubborn and daring, apt to speak her mind, bold in her manner and flawless in her dance. Nan Duncan (When Tomorrow Came)—injured and worrisome, voice like an angel, childishly sweet, yet too eager to please. Isabella Gresham (Garden of the Midnights)—spoiled and excitable, with raven black hair and an art for entering social circles with impeccable grace and exquisiteness.

    I love them, sweet characters of mine.

    But I don’t understand them. We’re too different. Like sand and sea, we meet, we touch, we sweep back and forth together but we’re of different substance.

    But Eliza Ellis—rather, Eliza Gillingham—is the first character I truly resonate with. Not on purpose. In no wise did I pen her with conscious hints back to myself. But as the story progressed, I found my heart reaching out to her, settling into her.

    Because she was the same.

    The way she thought, the things she imagined, her forest and her pet and her stories. I comprehended what made her hurt. I understood the dream world she lived in, because I live in a dream world too.

    So, if anyone asks me, “Do you see yourself in any of your characters?”, I’ll pull The Girl from the Hidden Forest from the bookshelf and hand it to them. I’ll tell them Eliza and I are like kindred spirits, that we’ve bridged a friendship between reality and fiction.

    Whether you’re a reader or a writer, I hope you stumble upon a character one day that feels like you. It’s a strange and special feeling indeed.

    My Impressions

    “Northwood is a bloody name, Miss Gillingham—and you’re the only one who can cleanse it.”

    Wow!! Just Wow!! Hannah Linder is really making a name for herself in the world of Christian Gothic Regency Romance! The Girl from the Hidden Forest is one of my newest faves!!

    In the year 1812, Eliza Ellis, 19, has been sequestered away in Balfour Forest, Northumberland, with only her father, whom she refers to as “Captain,” and her beagle, Merrylad.

    Having enjoyed a wild, carefree life in the woods with only the dog and trees for friends, her father is everything to her, telling her fanciful stories of wondrous worlds that fill her heart. Suddenly, she is kidnapped by young Felton Northwood,

    taken to a castle far away, and delivered to an “older” member of the gentry, Lord Gillingham. Told Gillingham is her father, Eliza is thrust into a strange, lonely, and judgmental world. At times she believes Felton is becoming a friend, but other times, it is obvious she is not good enough for him. Talk about relatable characters! So many people can relate to inferiority when compared to others, or seeing a friend who needs help, but being afraid to stand against society for them!

    As Eliza is trapped at the estate, she finds her memories from early childhood beginning to match her lifelong nightmares. Will she be able to remember what Felton wants her to, and this clear the taint on the Northwood name, or will the monster of her dreams destroy her first?

    Eliza is a great character, who has a tender heart towards others. I love how she befriends Minney, who is physically deformed and possibly has other issues as well. Minney delivers the most frightening message to Eliza. “Ye watch’eeself. Ye watch well. People die. Some people die in this house. And other places. Miss Gillingham?” She clasped her hands to stop the tremble that rushed through her. “Yes?” “I don’t think’ee can trust the ones’ee think’ee can.”

    I liked Felton, mostly. His indecision drove me mad. Sometimes he is purely selfish, sometimes he is a true friend and hero, sometimes he can’t seem to make the best choice! But then, he comes from a very dysfunctional family. The Northwood family lives in a world of pretend. His mother pretends war is fanciful thing, that there is no danger. His father pretends his wife is not unhealthy. Both parents pretend that the whispers about Mr. Northwood do not bother them.

    One theme that stood out to me is that people aren’t all good or all bad, but rather very complex. Thought that struck me as I was searching with Eliza and Felton for the killer ( yes, I felt that invested!!). We see this ironic juxtaposition in so many different people, but Captain is certainly a prime example. “Captain would have smiled. Or laughed. Or cried when she cried. He would have told her to keep her chin up, and even without telling him of her nightmares, he would have assured her the beast could always be fought.”We all need friends like Captain. To listen well, emote with us, give us sound advice, and make our fears manageable. Yet, Captain is also a very troubled man, for very valid reasons.

    For fans of Michelle Griep, Kimberley Woodhouse, and Jaime Jo Wright. Historical, with a Gothic air, this a highly suspenseful mystery with a twist you’ll never see coming! Also with shades of Nancy Mehl and Susan Sleeman danger and psychological insights into the killer.

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

    Notable Quotables:

    “He was no enemy, this man, no matter how different their sides and hopes. No, Felton Northwood was her friend. Her first friend.”

    “What God has given you less of in one place, He has given you more of in others.”

    “You are good and noble and brave, or so I’ve imagined you. Funny thing about me. Once I imagine something for so long, I start to believe it. I guess I’ve believed it of you all along.”

    “We seldom deserve what we are or what we are given.”

    “They are only fools, Northwood, who continue in their folly.”

    My Rating

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Magnificent!

    Blog Stops

    Devoted To Hope, May 30

    Inspired by Fiction, May 30

    Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 31

    Sylvan Musings, May 31

    Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 1

    Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 1

    Texas Book-aholic, June 2

    Mornings at Character Cafe, June 2

    Locks, Hooks and Books, June 3

    Blogging With Carol, June 3

    Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 4

    Betti Mace, June 5

    For Him and My Family, June 5

    Alena Mentink, June 6

    Splashes of Joy, June 6

    Stories By Gina, June 7 (Author Interview)

    Mary Hake, June 7

    Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 8

    Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, June 8

    Tell Tale Book Reviews, June 9

    Cover Lover Book Review, June 9

    Book Looks by Lisa, June 10

    The Lofty Pages, June 10

    Holly’s Book Corner, June 11

    Pause for Tales, June 11

    Lily’s Corner, June 12

    To Everything There Is A Season, June 12

    Giveaway

    To celebrate her tour, Hannah is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a print 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/2bbf6/the-girl-from-the-hidden-forest-celebration-tour-giveaway

    ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, NetGalley, New-to-Me Author, PB, Purchase, Revell

    The Ark and the Dove by Jill Eileen Smith Review

    Babbling Becky L

    About the Book

    Title: The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah’s Wife

    Author: Jill Eileen Smith

    Publisher: Revell

    Genre: Biblical Fiction

    Released: February 2024

    Zara and Noah have walked together with the Creator for their entire lives, and they have done their best in an increasingly wicked and defiant world to raise their three sons to follow in their footsteps. It has been a challenge–and it’s about to get much, much harder.

    When the Creator tells her husband to build an ark to escape the coming wrath against the sins of humankind, Zara steps out with him in faith. But the derision and sabotage directed their way from both friends and extended family are difficult to bear, as is knowing that everyone she interacts with beyond her husband, her sons, and their wives is doomed to destruction. And when the ark is finally finished and the animals have been shut up inside, Zara and her family embark on an adventure that will test their patience and their faith as they await deliverance and dry ground.

    Experience the story of Noah and the flood like you never have before. With bestselling and award-winning author Jill Eileen Smith as your guide, you’ll never look at a rainbow the same way again.

    About the Author:

    Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling and award-winning author of the biblical fiction series The Wives of King David, Wives of the Patriarchs, and Daughters of the Promised Land, as well as The Heart of a King, Star of Persia: Esther’s Story, Miriam’s Song, The Prince and the Prodigal, and Daughter of Eden. She is also the author of the nonfiction books When Life Doesn’t Match Your Dreams and She Walked Before Us. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan. Learn more at http://www.jilleileensmith.com.

    My Impressions

    “What should I do, Adonai? Did God care about their personal spats with one another? He’d saved them to repopulate a world where evil ran rampant. But they could not run from the sin in their own hearts.”

    Jill Eileen Smith. A name of long associated with Biblical fiction, yet The Ark and the Dove is the first book I’ve been privileged to read by Smith.

    First, I suggest bringing your waders. While obviously this is the story of Genesis 6, the flood of Noah’s day, it is so much more. While it is an engrossing read, it is not a quick read, compared to many books. You will be immersed in the deep waters of the Nephilim, the Watchers, the ever-encroaching evil, and the intense oppression of Noah’s family as they build the ark and preach about the coming judgment.

    Somehow, as a mother of adult children, this novel hits especially hard, emotionally, but even young adults can relate to the sibling issues. It seems we see the stresses on the family as seen mostly through the eyes of Zara, Noah’s faithful wife. She has to place her faith in Noah to lead her family spiritually, but it is hard for all of them to follow God’s few personal directives given only directly to Noah. It is also hard for each son to maintain his marriage and close relationships with the other two brothers as doubts and fears assail. I ached along with Zara as she is heartbroken when her the families of her daughters-in-law turn against them and join in the persecution and rejection. No matter how hard she tries, one of the wives seems bent on trouble-making. Do we know these things for gospel fact? No, we only know what the Bible gives us, which Smith quotes or rephrases multiple times. She even includes references to Romans 1. The rest is author’s license, as long as it does not contradict Scripture. That is what Biblical fiction is.

    I will be thinking on this book for a while to come! I was glad I had previous teaching under my belt about the Nephilim and the Watchers. Otherwise, I might have wanted them explained a little more. The Ark and the Dove caused a good discussion between myself and my husband, and I believe it would be a great book for a church book club.

    I received a copy of the book from Revell Reads through Netgalley. I also bought a paperback copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

    Notable Quotables:

    “Abba said that God did not want to judge us. His heart was broken by our rebellion. I never thought of the Creator as having a heart that could break like ours does.”

    “We are made in His image, so perhaps that’s one way that we are like Him. We feel because He feels. Perhaps that is the greatest kind of love.”

    “If someone wants to worship something other than the Creator, they will use anything to replace Him in their hearts. It does not have to be a creation of wood or stone. An idol can be anything we place above Him as the most important thing in our lives.”

    My Rating

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    I ruminated for a while before rating this book. But not all precious gems are easily mined, and some may not be easily recognized at first sight. I believe this novel to be one of those very precious gems.