Tag: Family

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

The Bachelor Spy by Pepper Basham Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Bachelor Spy (A Freddie and Grace Mystery Book 5)

Author: Pepper Basham

Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical Fiction

Release Date: July, 2026

Spies Infiltrate Havensbooke Hall. . .and Another Mystery Adventure Begins

Stephen Blake’s life goal is to protect people, especially those closest to him, but war in 1914 England doesn’t follow any rules. When Blake is informed that a noted German spy may have taken up residence at Havensbrooke Hall—his cousin Lord Astley’s estate, which is being used as a convalescent war hospital—he’s sent there to uncover the plot.

Lady Grace Astley has become a force to be reckoned with while Frederick is out on the war front. With Havensbrooke as a hospital, she’s shocked by the devastation the war is bringing home; but ever hopeful, she is determined to help these weary soldiers find some relief. However, not everything is as it seems inside Havensbrooke. Precious items soon start disappearing. . .and not just the kind that are worth a lot of money.

Through a case of mistaken identity, a comedy of errors, a kidnapping, and a race for time within the crumbling subterranean passageways beneath Havensbrooke, can Blake and Gracie work together to root out the criminals, thieves, and spies before time runs out?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroadsand Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

Excerpt

Prologue

May 7, 1915

Stephen Blake had been trailing the presumed spy most of the voyage—first to secure his target, and then. . .to strike. Every clue pointed to the fact that the gregarious businessman Donald Leaman was none other than Albert Stein, a German informant ferrying English war secrets straight to the fatherland.

Unfortunately, every opportunity Blake had found to confront the man had been thwarted: too many watchful eyes, too much pomp and luxury for a clean cornering. With the Lusitania’s transatlantic voyage ending in less than a day, his time to complete this mission was slipping away.

Worse, he couldn’t shake the feeling he was being followed himself. Only a limited few knew of his operation to uncover a ghostlike informant who’d used their “ordinary” position to gain extraordinary intelligence—from transfer stations, casualty clearing posts, even a general’s bunker at the Western Front. The spy had proven madden-ingly elusive, slipping through every trap British intelligence laid

with almost theatrical flair.

But what did they know? Stein was the spy’s last contact. And Blake was tasked with finding out what he knew.

The Lusitania was hardly Blake’s first ship, but certainly it was the grandest. It felt as though Claridge’s, the famous hotel in London, had taken to the sea, complete with its extravagant marble floors and its crystal chandeliers, with champagne in the air and ease all around. Just after luncheon, Stein had excused himself early and started down the grand staircase toward the lower decks. An odd choice for a first-class passenger, especially so near the end of the trip and with

his companions urging him to remain for cards.

So, of course, Blake followed.

Deck by deck, corridor by corridor, until the music and chatter faded into the deep measured thrum of the engines.

Occasionally, Stein cast a look behind him but never appeared concerned enough to stop his descent. This was certainly a planned meeting.

The elegance of the upper floors gave way to simpler decor, narrower corridors. Second-class accommodations. Stein stopped before a cabin door. His knock held an unnatural rhythm—three quick raps, a pause, two more. After only a beat of silence, a murmur from within responded.

Stein’s immediate whispered answer? “Octavia.” A code word, no doubt.

The door opened. Stein slipped inside, but before the door could click shut, Blake rushed soundlessly forward and caught it with his fingertips.

Perfect.

He released a self-satisfied grin and then pressed himself against the corridor wall, listening through the crack over the hum of the ship’s engine.

The cabin was small—voices carried easily in the confined space—and the faint scent of cigarette smoke drifted through the opening. “You’re late.” A man’s voice, crisp and impatient. Something about the cadence nagged at Blake’s memory, but he couldn’t place

  1. English, certainly. Kentish?

Blake frowned. He could overpower Stein easily—the man was more socialite than combatant, the sort who’d probably never thrown a proper punch in his life. But this unknown fellow, clearly in charge and confident enough to smoke a cigarette while conducting treason? That suggested either experience or exceptional stupidity. Blake hoped for the latter but suspected the former.

“It was difficult to get away without raising suspicion,” Stein replied, his accent thickening into full German. “Blake is on this ship.”

Blake’s pulse quickened. So Stein knew he was being followed. “I know.” The other man’s tone didn’t waver. A long exhale

followed, as if he were breathing out smoke. “We’ve been watching him to ensure he didn’t wreck things.”

We? Who?

Blake’s mind raced through the passenger manifest, through his team members, through every face he’d seen on this voyage. That voice. . .

“But with that in mind, we need to move quickly,” the Englishman continued. “What do you have for me?”

A rustle of papers. “The Midnight Angel’s next assignment. She’s to embed herself in a convalescent hospital—but not in France this time. There is too much interest in her there.”

Blake’s breath caught. She was called the Midnight Angel? The informant they’d been hunting for months. And she was a woman.

“Italy, then?”

“Nein,” Stein answered simply. “A place much closer to your front door, mein Herr.”

England? A convalescent hospital in England?

“Perfect,” the Englishman murmured. “Wounded officers talk too freely around nurses they think are angels of mercy.”

“Clever, no?” Stein’s voice held a note of pride. “No one suspects the nurses. They’re invisible, really. Moving between stations, tending to generals and privates alike. She’s already proven invaluable.”

“This is excellent information, Stein.” A pause. “And you’ve given

it so freely. Too freely, I’m afraid.”

Blake froze. He knew that tone—the shift from curiosity to finality. The Englishman was finished with Stein. The German had served his purpose, been found wanting, and now. . .had become a liability.

He couldn’t wait any longer. Stein had to be taken alive—had to be questioned, catalogued, and wrung dry of every detail about the Midnight Angel and her network before—

He drew his revolver and pushed through the door. The scene materialized in a horrifying instant.

Stein stood near a narrow desk, documents scattered before him. And holding a gun already drawn, already aimed at Stein’s head with casual confidence, stood Evan Montgomery.

Blake’s breath squeezed closed in his throat.

Montgomery? His colleague. His friend. The man he’d trained with in Scotland, shared terrible army rations with in the trenches, trusted with his life on half a dozen missions across the Channel. The man whose sister Blake had been half in love with for six months but was far too professional to mention. The man who was, apparently, a traitor.

My Impressions

“That’s what family does, Grace. We muddle through the terrifying bits together and hope for the best.” 

The. Perfect. Wrap-up! Well-done, Ms. Basham. Pepper Basham’s The Bachelor Spy is everything that we readers were anticipating! A light-hearted whimsical mystery, plenty of action, several different storyline threads, “new” characters,  faith strengtheners, and romance! And insight into Freddie’s past as well. 

Most books have twists in the second half of the book, if not near the end. The Bachelor Spy starts with a twist that sets up the uncertain mood of England during WWI. We begin with Stephen Blake, (cousin of Freddie’s) on board the ill-fated Lusitania in 1915. Uncertain relationships, treacherous dealings, and the search for a mole within the British spy system. Plus, the search for The Midnight Angel, a very dangerous and clever spy for the Germans who has eluded capture, resulting in many British deaths. 

Soon, the action switches to reveal Freddie and Grace’s estate, Havensbrooke. Freddie has been recalled to service in the army. Grace, needing to fill her time and feel useful, turns the house into a convalescent hospital for wounded soldiers. The secrets under that roof! Blake arrives wounded, but Grace is sure something’s off with their relative and beloved friend. Blake recognizes Grace has a secret, yet to be discovered, and he tries to hide his own identity, especially as a few of the nurses seem sharper than warranted. One nurse had my suspicions up, then another, till I suspected them all. 

Through it all, Grace traipses through life with her humor-filled,  adorable but childlike approach. When thievery begins,     Grace throws herself and the household staff into full-on mystery-solving mode.  Instructing the staff, Grace says, “we all ought to increase our mystery reading….“If our minds are already attuned to sleuthing, I imagine it will only make us more aware of clues and suspicious behavior.” Smiles from me, eyerolls from the staff!

When Grace’s secret is revealed, it ignites a latent fear in her heart. A character reminds her, “I hope you will remember that God is in this very moment, as well as the ones you cannot even see yet.” 

Another time, when asked why she shows unusual mercy and grace, Grace replies, “Because we all need second chances,” Grace said with a soft laugh. “Sometimes third. Or fourth.” Her faith comes back to buoy her. It’s a good thing it does, because there are plenty of twists, surprises (other than an orange cat causing mayhem 😊), and danger yet to come!! 

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:

“One simply does what needs doing for those in one’s … family.”

“The mission had grown substantially more dangerous. The Midnight Angel wasn’t just passing along intelligence about troop movements, patterns, and locations. She was building a kill list.”

“When she couldn’t see the future and didn’t understand all the reasons, if she believed He loved her as much as He promised, she could trust His timing.”

“…we all could do with a bit of kindness with all the very difficult things going on in the world.”

“…she was acting as if she didn’t trust God’s love at all! Even when hard things happened, didn’t He always promise to be the strength she needed for whatever the task?”

”Not enjoying reading certainly had to give the woman a dreary outlook on the world. Especially a world at war.“

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! Well-done, Ms. Basham. It’s hard to keep a series going this strong for this many books, but each Freddie and Grace Mystery has been just as good, if not better, than the one before it. So long, little Zahra. You are one of my fave characters, along with Brandon in this book. 

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, July 30

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 30

Melissa’s Bookshelf, July 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 31

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 31

Texas Book-aholic, August 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 1

For Him and My Family, August 2

Book Holds and Jello Molds, August 2

Sylvan Musings, August 3

Jodie Wolfe, August 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 3

Where Faith and Books Meet, August 4

Connie’s History Classroom , August 4

Simple Harvest Reads, August 5 (Guest Review from Donna)

The Vine and The Branch, August 5

Stories By Gina, August 6 (Author Interview)

Betti Mace, August 6

Mary Hake, August 6

Min Reads and Reviews, August 7

Wishful Endings, August 7

She Lives To Read, August 8

Blossoms and Blessings, August 8

Labor Not in Vain , August 9

Holly’s Book Corner, August 9

Lily’s Corner, August 10

Cover Lover Book Review, August 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 11

Pause for Tales, August 11

The Sacred Line, August 12

Devoted to Hope, August 12

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, August 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Pepper 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/ovQ5J/the-bachelor-spy-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Favorite Truth Nuggets, Just Read Tours, Kindle, New-to-Me Author, Purchase

Read, Write Rendezvous 2026 Blog Tour with Review and Giveaway!

Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog Tour that brings Rendezvous 2026 to you, hosted, sponsored, and organized by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Bringing Rendezvous ’26 to You!

Rendezvous: reader and writer gathering
November 7, 2026
Holiday Inn Nashville Airport

I am so excited to go again this year to Rendezvous and meet so many authors and other reader friends! Everyone is very friendly and happy to include others. Whether you are a newbie, a longtime attender, an introvert, or an extrovert, you will find friends and join in laughter, fun, and great times of faith with like-minded readers and authors. Come!! Join us!!

Readers and Writers will gather at the fourth annual Read Write Rendezvous, organized and sponsored by JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC, on November 7, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT at the Holiday Inn Nashville Airport. Rendezvous celebrates Christian fiction and sweet reads, featuring corporate worship, speaker sessions, author panels, small-group discussions, games, giveaways, a pop-up bookshop, and book signings. This event aims to sweeten reading and storytelling experiences with fellowship and encouragement. Over forty featured authors are participating, including The Christy Award Hall of Fame and bestselling author Tamera Alexander who will deliver the keynote address. USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author Lisa Phillips will lead worship. We will announce several more authors in the coming weeks! We prayerfully honor the legacy of the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat through each Rendezvous event, and this year we are especially celebrating the very first CFRR which was held 10 years ago in Nashville. Rendezvous is open only to registered attendees. Want to extend your reader getaway? The Christy Award Gala and Art of Writing conference will be held at a nearby venue on November 6.

Learn more about the 2026 Rendezvous

If you’re unable to attend Rendezvous this year, we don’t want you to miss out on getting to know our authors and their books. Our bloggers are bringing Rendezvous to you by spotlighting several of the participating authors this week. Follow along to grow your TBR list to astronomical proportions!

Check out recent releases by these participating authors in the JustRead Amazon Storefront.

About My Featured Author

Liz Johnson

Liz Johnson is the author of more than 20 novels, a New York Times bestselling novella, and a handful of short stories. She’s a Christy Award finalist, a three-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, and winner of an FHL Readers’ Choice Award in 2025. She makes her home in Phoenix, where she loves exploring local theater, cheering for the 49ers, and doting on her nieces and nephews. She reads and writes stories filled with heart, humor, and happily ever afters.

Liz’s Featured Book

About the Book

Title: Sidelined by Love

Released: February 17, 2026

Genre: Sweet Rom-com, Sports Romance

Zoe Peebles: America’s Sweetheart or Drama Queen?

The tabloids have always been kind to me—until an on-set scandal leaves me single, unemployable, and looking for a place to hide. My only option is staying with my grandma in Colorado Springs, but my dad—owner of the local professional football team—makes it clear that he doesn’t want my personal brand of drama in his locker room. No problem. I’m not interested in dating anyone in the public eye. Ever again.

But I do need quarterback Grant Reddington’s help preparing for an audition that will be my last if I can’t land the role. As I spend time with my father’s QB1, I discover there’s a lot more to him than a rocket arm and a ridiculously handsome face.

Grant Reddington: Fumbling His Most Important Role

When my sister is deployed for six months, she asks me to take care of her 13-year-old daughter Kenna. They’re my only family, and I can hardly say no. But having a teenager obsessed with acting at my place isn’t exactly conducive to focusing on the game and taking my team to the playoffs, especially since she and I have nothing to talk about.


But the moment Kenna discovers that I know a real-life movie star, she begins to smile again, and maybe we have a way to connect. Now I have a certified drama queen hanging around my house. I can’t believe half the tabloid stories about Zoe, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe to have her around. Especially when she’s becoming my favorite distraction.

Purchase here:

https://www.amazon.com/Sidelined-Love-Fourteeners-Football-Romantic-ebook/dp/B0DXF41VFL

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My Impressions

“What do you know to be true right now?”

“Well, let’s start with the good ones. You’re forgiven. Completely and wholly by the only One who matters. You are loved by a good God and a cranky grandma. And you are worthy to be loved.” -Nan

I am to the point as a reader that one of the best parts of a book is a “Notable Quotable,” ( as I call them) a takeaway Truth that I can either live by or share with someone else in need. So this review of Liz Johnson’s sports comedy- slash-sweet rom-com may be backwards from my usual. The above truth nugget is such a life-changing mind shift if our rumor-beleaguered actress Zoe can wrap her brain around it. But it is so relevant to life today. 

All that being said, guess who, besides Zoe, an actress being smeared by the tabloids, and hunky NFL quarterback Grant “Red”, is my fave secondary character? Nan, of course. I just love these supporting characters who quietly come in and stand in the gap for hurting MCs when everyone else (i.e. Zoe’s Fourteeners owner father, her agent Cyndi, and producers) treat Zoe like poison for a mistake that she couldn’t foresee. Nan is so wise, and she takes Zoe in when no one else will. If need be, Nan will become a formidable human dervish that could mow down Zoe’s naysayers. 

As I write this, Father’s Day is coming. Zoe would have absolutely no reason to celebrate her rich, famous, and double-standard father. His treatment of her makes me want to cry. 

Thank goodness for muscly, 5-o’clock shadow, great smelling, (did I say hunky) star quarterback Grant Reddington, who is on Zoe’s father’s team. Totally off-limits. Totally uninterested in helping Zoe when asked. But the catalysts for the start of their relationship might be furry beasts and a sullen 13-yr-old niece of Grant’s, forced to live with him temporarily. 

Such a fun story to read and watch the characters grow and see the different relationships mature or dissolve. Personally, I could have used a little less emphasis on the physical, but Johnson does keep it sweet. A couple of words I prefer not to see in CF, but as some might say, soft. Still, the cute story stays within its category boundaries and I believe most will get a good kick out of it! Great for those who love sports rom-coms, sweet rom-coms, great Truth lessons, and novels written in first-person present POV with alternating narrators.

I bought my own copy of the book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own. 

Notable Quotables:

“You’re not who they say you are,” he whispers into my ear. “You are who God says you are.” Grant

“The truth ceased to matter a long time ago. No one cares what really happened. They only care what they can sell. Reality is whatever the headlines declare it to be.” -Cyndi

“‘The truth always matters.’ She clamps her wrinkled and spotted hand over mine on the table. ‘It will set you free. Jesus said it, so it must be true.’” -Nan

“The Good Book says that love casts out fear. It also says that a cord of three strands is stronger than two. When you’re with the right person, you’re a stronger, better version. Of both of you.” Hank

“None of us should be judged on our worst mistakes.” -Grant

My Rating

Great! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Loved the Marriage of Sweet Rom-com and Golden Truth Nuggets!!

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Giveaway

(11) winner will receive a $30 gift card (winner’s choice of Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook, or Baker Book House)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 15, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 22, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. 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, Purchase

Stolen Secrets by S. F. Baumgartner Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Stolen Secrets: A Thriller (Mirror Estate Series Book 7)

Author: S.F. Baumgartner

Genre: Thriller with Christian elements

Release Date: June 2, 2026

An adopted daughter. A vanished teenager. A secret that must stay hidden.

FBI Special Agent Charlie O’Rourke believed adopting Jamie Beth would keep her safe. But when her best friend vanishes during a school band rehearsal, Charlie discovers the threat isn’t random.

As Jamie Beth desperately searches for answers about her best friend’s disappearance, she has no idea she’s next.

To save his daughter, Charlie must choose between protocol and survival.

Perfect for readers who love the layered conspiracies of Daniel Silva, the emotional stakes of NCIS, and the shadow-war tension of The Blacklist.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

S.F. Baumgartnercrafts fast-paced Christian suspense thrillers, weaving tales of complex characters, secretive operatives, and relentless agents. Her gripping storytelling has earned acclaim, with Living Secrets and Forgotten Secret—Books 1 & 2 of her Mirror Estate series—named Top Picks in the thriller & suspense categories, respectively, at Killer Nashville, and Tangled Secrets—Book 3 of Mirror Estateseries—won couple of awards in the Christian Indie Awards and the Incipere Awards. When she’s not plotting her next twist, she’s binge-watching crime TV shows, like NCIS or playing with her cats. Fans of James Patterson’s style, especially those who appreciate short, punchy chapters, will find much to love in her work.  And as always, her books are all clean.

More from S.F.

Stolen Secrets is the seventh book in the Mirror Estate series, and for me it represents something I didn’t fully realize when I started writing it: the beginning of the end of the Ghost arc.

When I began the series, I never mapped out a long, eight-book storyline for the Ghost. In fact, I didn’t even think about how long that arc might last until around Book 6, Shadowed Secret. That’s when it started becoming clear that the threads surrounding the Ghost, Dylan, and the larger conspiracy needed more room to unfold. Book 8 will wrap up the Ghost storyline, though the Mirror Estate series itself is far from over. There are still many stories left to tell.

One of the continuing mysteries involves Dylan and the buried treasures connected to Mirror Estate. Whether that storyline concludes in Book 8 or continues beyond it is something I’m still discovering as the story evolves.

Stolen Secrets also includes a bonus story titled “Shadow Extraction.” Writing that novelette was one of the hardest parts of the project. It features Olivia in the middle of a black-ops mission that unfolds at the end of her honeymoon in Italy. The emotional and operational stakes in that story made it especially challenging to write, but it also became one of my favorite parts of the book.

Another element I enjoyed writing in Stolen Secrets involves Jamie Beth and Owen. Watching those two characters work their way through danger and figure out how to escape was incredibly rewarding as a writer. Those scenes capture something I love about thrillers—the moment when characters must rely on their own courage and quick thinking to survive.

Looking back, Stolen Secrets feels like a turning point for the series. Secrets are beginning to surface, alliances are shifting, and the long game surrounding the Ghost is finally moving toward its conclusion.

But even as that arc approaches its end, the world of Mirror Estate still holds plenty of secrets waiting to be uncovered.

My Impressions

“Every family had secrets. Probably hers too. She was adopted. That alone meant there was a whole history she didn’t know. A mother. A father. A reason they gave her up.”

I hope I can sleep tonight! I just finished Stolen Secrets, #7 the Mirror Estate series, by S. F. Baumgartner. The novel is touted as a thriller. I had forgotten since the last book just how thrilling, in chilling way. We are following the story of the Ghost, an infamous criminal who is now cooperating with the FBI and CIA. For unknown reasons, the Ghost has decided to help protect 17-year-old Jamie Beth O’Roarke. Jamie was adopted at 5 years old by Charlie and his wife, partly as their answer to prayers and partly as an assignment. “Are you asking me to help you disappear a child?” “I’m asking you to help keep one alive.”

When a friend is mistaken for Jamie and kidnapped, events are set in place that interconnect. Rescue and intelligence-gathering operations are detailed and complicated. And my eyes were absolutely glued to the pages as I read! I could feel the tension, the terror, the confusion, every emotion Jamie and Owen felt as well as those of their parents and all the agents involved in this case. I loved seeing the creativity of Jamie and Owen when the cards were stacked against them.

I was very grateful for the opening pages of the book. Each previous book in the series is summarized. Even better, there is a relationship chart that takes up two full pages. I took pictures and referred back to the charts frequently as I read to get a clearer understanding of all the moving pieces in this story. Plus, there is a map at the beginning of the book. Kudos, Ms. Baumgartner! 

If you love exciting action, multiple characters, rapidly changing scenes, and a complicated mystery, this book and series is for you! I can’t wait for the next book and more of the ongoing mystery to be solved! 

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:

“He and Charlie weren’t so different, the two of them. Fathers. Willing to sit with devils. For their children, they’d walk through fire.” ( Marco)

“Here was a father who’d spent his whole life running from his family’s shadow, building something clean, something legitimate. And now, for his son, he was sitting at this table with the people he’d tried to leave behind.” (Marco)

“Secrets were the hallmark of his family. And the Ghost’s secrets had a body count.” ( Dylan)

“Welcome to the intelligence community. Everything is compartmented. You only know what and when you need to know.” Fr. Phil

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Superior! I would read the next book immediately if I could! Mesmerizing!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 1

The Lofty Pages, June 1

Simple Harvest Reads, June 2 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 3

Artistic Nobody, June 4 (Author Interview)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 6

For Him and My Family, June 7

Guild Master, June 8 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, June 9

Blogging With Carol, June 10

Fiction Book Lover, June 11 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, June 11

Because I said so -adventures in parenting, June 12

The Bookish Ledger, June 13 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, June 14 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

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

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

https://gleam.io/9cIN6/stolen-secrets-a-thriller-celebration-tour-giveaway

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

Chase the Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Chase the Light (National Parks Summers Book 2. It can be read as a stand alone.)

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Contemporary

Release Date: May 5, 2026

When Acadia National Park ranger Scout Johnson discovers a weathered note near a remote lighthouse, she never imagines it will expose a century-old mystery. The cryptic message points to a forgotten shipwreck, a vanished treasure, and a lighthouse keeper’s suspicious death. Seeking answers, Scout enlists Naki Dana, a thoughtful man whose Penobscot heritage provides crucial insights. As they venture deeper into Acadia’s rugged wilderness, their unlikely partnership begins stirring feelings Scout didn’t expect to find. But they aren’t the only ones searching.

Chase Fletcher, a charming local journalist, sees this treasure hunt as his last opportunity to save his failing paper–and finds himself increasingly drawn to the ranger leading the search. With pressure mounting and loyalties tested, Scout must navigate a winding path between history and justice, truth and betrayal . . . and determine who–and what–deserves her trust.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a bestselling author, Christy finalist, Carol and Selah winner, and two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, with over forty books to her name. She writes contemporary, historical and Amish novels. Suzanne lives in California with her husband, where life (and friends) inspire her stories.

More from Suzanne

If a trip to Acadia National Park isn’t already on your bucket list, it should be—and when you go, don’t miss warm popovers on the lawn at the iconic Jordan Pond House.

The Unofficial-but-Close-Enough Jordan Pond Popover Recipe*

Back in 1895, Nellie and Thomas McIntire bought a Maine farmhouse overlooking the clear waters of Jordan Pond. On their wide green lawn, they served tea and towering popovers to well-to-do summer travelers. In 1928, J. D. Rockefeller purchased the land and later donated it to Acadia National Park. The lawn remains. The view remains. And the popovers? Still iconic.

While the original recipe is famously guarded, this version comes deliciously close.

Makes 6–8 large popovers.

What You’ll Need

  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Pinch of baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Let’s Make Them

  1. Start with a hot oven (and a hot pan).
    Preheat your oven to 425°–450°F. Place your popover pan (or a muffin tin) in the oven while it heats.
  2. Whisk the batter.
    Beat the eggs for about 2–3 minutes until slightly frothy. Slowly pour in the milk, then add the flour, salt, and baking soda. Mix just until combined. The batter should be smooth but not overworked.
  3. Fill the cups.
    Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and grease it generously with butter or spray. Pour the batter into each cup, filling them about halfway to three-quarters full.
  4. Bake.
    Bake at 425°–450°F for 15 minutes. Then, without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake another 15–20 minutes. The high heat creates the lift; the lower heat helps them set inside.
  5. Resist the urge to peek.
    Do not open the oven door while they bake. The steam inside is what makes them puff and keeps them tall.

Serve immediately with plenty of butter and strawberry jam.

A Few Tips for Sky-High Popovers

  • Room temperature matters. Cold eggs or milk will slow the rise. Let them sit out a bit before mixing.
  • Heat is your friend. A properly preheated pan jump-starts the puff.
  • No peeking. Steam is everything here. Let the oven do its work.

*Recipe adapted from Weston Table.

My Impressions

“The best stories are the ones God unfolds in his perfect timing. It’s always best when we let God write our story.” 

Suzanne Woods Fisher. Another auto-buy       paperback for the trophy shelf author! While Chase the Light, a novel about Acadia National Park,  is a stand-alone, I would highly recommend reading book one first, as several relationship groundworks are set up. 

I love that Fisher includes a list of characters in the front of the book and a description of each. With a year between books, the reminder of who’s who is helpful. We see returning characters like Chief Ranger Tim Wilson, his manipulative 15 yr-old-granddaughter Maisie, clueless 18 yr-old Frankie, and a few tertiary characters who momentarily step up for short, but notable contributions. We are also re-introduced to FMC Scout Johnson, a dedicated park ranger who has worked her way up to her dream job, interpretive ranger in Acadia National Park. 

Frankie and Maisie with their self-absorbed, centrisic attitudes cause quite a ton of problems. But they also step forward to become central secondary characters. They add so much color to the story, instigating (by carelessness!) the discovery of the 170-year-old park secret. 

At first, I was #TeamChase. He seemed like a very nice man, good looking, church -going, newspaper owner, passionate about his work, and fun to be around. Good match for Scout, right? (Oh, did I say Frankie is clueless? Chase can be, too! He sure doesn’t read relationships well! Sometimes, I was left just shaking my head at his interpretation of events!!)

But, as the story went on, another man, Wananaki Dana, a Penobscot Native American policy maker whose side passion is Maine shipwrecks caught my eye (and Scout’s).  A fun line inserted repeatedly- “Naki will do.” His passion is to help his people out of generational poverty, alcoholism, lack of education, and other issues that plague a people forced onto a reservation. And does he understand Acadia National Parks! He just might be a tad bit tall and a tad bit swoony, too! But as Chase’s mother once communicated to him, “…a person’s looks became subjective the moment you got to know them. They grew more attractive, or less.” Which man, by his very different choices in the difficult circumstances that arise following the lighthouse discovery, will end up showing a solid character?

With themes such as family relationships, forgiveness, moral character choices, found family, second chances, and even maturation, this novel is a must read. Great for National park lovers, Maine lovers, shipwreck lovers, those who love to see how choices can make or break a character. Plus, the mystery, the romance, the faith. Nearly something for everyone in an easy-flowing readable style! Pretty sure this one will be pulled for a re-read!!

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

Notable Quotables:

“A family is like a big house. Each person peers into it from a different window and sees a different view.” – Naki

“…it dawned on her that she might be guilty of projecting that same disappointment onto God. Not entirely trustworthy. Not dependable when it really mattered. She’d never put it into words before, but now it sat in her mind like a truth she couldn’t ignore. That wasn’t the right way to think about God. He’d been there, all along.” -(Scout)

“‘On the truth that the ultimate unity is the body of Christ. If we could only see people through God’s eyes, we would be the model of what the world is desperately longing for.’His gaze moved to the sea in front of them.  ‘I wish my people could understand that God made them the way they are for a purpose.’” – Naki

“Forgiveness and trust shouldn’t be confused.” – Naki

“Coincidences weren’t something she believed in—not in her job, not in her life. God had his plans, and while they might be mysterious, they were never accidental.” – (Scout)

“His faith steadied him, a constant reminder that he didn’t need to have it all mapped out—only to take the next step.”

-(Tim Rivers)

“To turn a beacon of safety into a tool for destruction—it felt like a betrayal, not just of duty, but of something deeper.” -( Scout)

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior!!

I foresee myself pulling this book out for a reread! Sooo good!!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 16

Lyssa Loves Books, May 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 17

Texas Book-aholic, May 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 19

The Avid Reader, May 19

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 20

Lakesidelivingsite, May 20

For Him and My Family, May 21

Holly’s Book Corner, May 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 22

EmpowerMoms, May 23

Pause for Tales, May 23

Blogging With Carol, May 24

Lily’s Corner, May 25

Devoted To Hope, May 25

She Lives to Read, May 26

Life on Chickadee Lane, May 27

Cover Lover Book Review, May 27

Simple Harvest Reads, May 28 (Guest Review from Donna)

Lights in a Dark World, May 28

Wishful Endings, May 29

Mary Hake, May 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne 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/f01pi/chase-the-light-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Favorite, JustRead Tour, Kindle, New-to-Me Author, Purchase

One Rotten Apple by Penny Frost McGinnis Review

Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Bookstagram + Review Tour for One Rotten Apple by Penny Frost McGinnis, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! (I am only participating as a reviewer.)

About the Book

Title: One Rotten Apple

Author: Penny Frost McGinnis

Series: Lyndie Lavender Cozy Mystery #1

Release Date: March 1, 2026

Genre: Cozy Mystery

After twenty years of photographing war zones, Lyndie Lavender longs for peace. She finds it—at least at first—when she moves to her Aunt Cordy’s homestead near the quiet town of Seldom Seen, South Carolina. The gentle rhythm of her new life is upended when Lyndie stumbles across a dead body on the opening day of her aunt’s beloved Apple Fest.

Determined to uncover who killed one of the locals—and marred her aunt’s festival—Lyndie dusts off her camera and natural curiosity. With her sister Laurel at her side and Aunt Cordy’s charming new tenant, Zach Hudson, lending a hand, Lyndie finds herself snooping, spying, and untangling secrets the town folks didn’t even know.

Finding a killer isn’t on Lyndie Lavender’s calendar. But neither is walking away.

https://www.amazon.com/One-Rotten-Apple-Lavender-Mystery-ebook/dp/B0GMTGM4PJ

****************************************

About the Author

Penny Frost McGinnis has loved books for as long as she can remember, from sharing a childhood library with her cousins to working in libraries until retirement. An avid reader and lifelong learner, she lives in southwest Ohio with her husband and their golden retriever, Rosie May. Penny embraces her faith, family, and enjoys fiber arts, and baseball. She writes with the goal of encouraging and uplifting her readers.

******************************************

My Impressions

“I believe we all have choices to make when we grow up. I choose to be a better person.”- Walt

There you have it. One of my fave quotes from the story, about taking personal responsibility. I enjoyed this cozy novel, One Rotten Apple,  by Penny Frost McGinnis. I loved that it was set in small-town upstate South Carolina. Aunt Cordy is hosting her yearly Apple Fest, making for a good crowd and producing many possible suspects when the mayor’s murder is discovered. I loved the warmth of the family relationships between Aunt Cordy, Lyndie, Laurel, and then extending to Laurel’s hubby, Danny, as well as Zach, the young renter, and Walt, Aunt Cordy’s boyfriend. ( By the way, there is a short list of characters at the front. And a map! Yay! I like to be front-loaded this way!) 

I will say it is rather sticky for Lyndie to investigate as a civilian, because her brother-in-law, Danny, is the local police. He is constantly reminding Lyndie to let the police do their job. Just how Laurel is able to get involved, given her divided loyalties, made me uneasy just to think about it! 

When the murder is pinned on Aunt Cordy, Lyndie and Zach go to work with a little help from others investigating everyone, from another mayoral candidate to the mayor’s former secretary. 

Walt is one of my fave characters. He’s quiet, he’s wise, and he loves Aunt Cordy. He balances her. And he loves those Aunt Cordy loves. Which means he is concerned about Lyndie’s anxiety attacks  from her time as a war correspondent in far-flung areas of the earth. Determined to do something about it, he introduces 2 of my true fave characters to Lyndie: Valais Black-nose sheep!

Move over Highland Coos!! These remarkable animals are fluffy, soft, and comforting to anxiety-prone Lyndie. Cuter than cute with their little black faces, friendly, if accounts are to be believed ( by this point, I was off task and researching Valais Black-nose sheep)!!

With threads of faith, I found this first book of a new cozy series clean, warm, and comforting, perfect to read in between some very “serious” fiction. There’s also a lot of great, mouth-watering food described. (And one-not-so mouth-watering sandwich. Ugh!!)

I will be watching for more of Aunt Cordy, Lyndie, and of course, the Valais Black-nose sheep!

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

Notable Quotables:

“Don’t worry. Every worry steals some joy.”- Lyndie, quoting Aunt Cordy

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted…”- Psalm 34:18

“In my distress and grief, I clung to the twenty-third Psalm. My shepherd’s goodness and love followed me. Even as I tried to catch a killer.” – (Lyndie)

******************************************

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! Clean, faith-filled cozy. I certainly have a new animal I would add to my dream hobby farm, if I had one!!

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

The Single Mom’s Second Chance by Tara Randel Review and Giveaway

Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Single Mom’s Second Chance by Tara Randel, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Single Mom’s Second Chance
Series: A Golden, Georgia Romance #2
Author: Tara Randel
Publisher: Harlequin Heartwarming
Release Date: January 27, 2026
Genre: Wholesome Romance

A fresh start…

Then an unexpected curveball

When Addie Lane returns to Golden, Georgia, to open her own fitness center, she’s surprised to find her late husband’s best friend, professional baseball player Nolan Travers, offering to invest. Recovering from an injury, Nolan finds solace in helping a friend—and coaching her son Jacob’s baseball team. As the summer continues, their close bond threatens to be undone by Nolan’s expected return to pro ball and Addie’s challenging relationships with her mother and sisters. Only time will tell if their separate paths will pull them apart—or if Addie and Nolan can hit their love out of the park together.

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

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

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

More in This Series

About the Author

Tara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author. Family values, a bit of mystery and of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets and beautiful weather inspire the creation of heartwarming stories. Tara has received the Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award.

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

Tara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author. Family values, a bit of mystery and of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets and beautiful weather inspire the creation of heartwarming stories. Tara has received the Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award.

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

My Impressions

“Could there actually be more to life than baseball?”

I had never read any of Tara Randel’s A Golden, Georgia Romance series before. Now that I’ve finished book #2, The Single Mom’s Second Chance, I’d like to revisit this small town where everyone knows your name, and unfortunately, your business as well! I love how main character Addie one day realizes that she and her  8-yr-old son Jacob have not only a supportive family, but friends and neighbors who rally together to support each other, as evidenced by the town’s support of the summer rec boys’ baseball team.

But I need to back up. Addie and her young son have moved back to her hometown of Golden after her husband’s death. While that brings family support, Addie is just beginning to rebuild relationships with her sisters that were severely damaged following their dad’s betrayal. Between her father and her husband, Addie has learned that she will never be first in relationship and has determined to stay out of romantic relationships rather than open herself to hurt. 

The return to town of her long-time friend, Nolan, an injured professional baseball player, threatens her promise to herself and her sanity. Nolan becomes Addie’s business partner in her life’s dream of opening a fitness center, then becomes the coach of the town’s rec baseball team as Addie realizes her parental enthusiasm isn’t enough to make her a good volunteer coach. 

It took me some time to get myself truly invested in the story, but by the midway point, my interest was thoroughly piqued. I enjoyed seeing glimpses of each of the Connelly sisters as well as their mother, and getting insight into their life as well. 

Poor Nolan, whose career is everything to him, has to ask himself some questions. “Who am I without baseball?” he whispered.  He is afraid to find out what life might be like without the driving force of his life.  He does get lonely, because his intense career focus means he has few friends. He wonders if “putting baseball first meant he’d always feel this alone.” Dare he pursue a relationship with Addie, when he can’t promise a future?

Coach and Linda are tied for my fave supporting secondary characters. Linda because she has found a way to forgive the past, is an incredible grandma, business owner, plus she develops a story thread of her own. But her love and care are examples for her girls to follow. And Coach? He is constantly showing up for Nolan, encouraging him in all endeavors, not just those of the professional team. He pulls no punches with Nolan, and strongly encourages him to be all that he can be. 

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

Notable Quotables:

“The game teaches us a lot, but mostly it shows us how to handle disappointment and how to be good people in the process. I want that for each and every one of you.” – Nolan

“She’d rather lie to herself than face a possible broken heart.”

“the best way to get through a life-changing event was not to fight it but to just go through it, one step at a time.”  -Addie

“But not coming to terms with the past will only cause more stress down the road.” – Nicole

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great! I’m looking forward to more visits with Connelly family members in the small town of Golden!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card, a reading journal, ‘It’s a good day to read’ tote bag and three autographed print books by the author!

(1) winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 2, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 9, 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.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

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

The Silver Lode by Suzanne J. Bratcher

Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Silver Lode

Author: Suzanne J. Bratcher

Genre: Mystery

Release Date: 2020

JEROME, ARIZONA:

Billion-dollar copper camp alive with rags-to-riches tales

Beneath the ghost town that clings to the side of Cleopatra Hill, a maze of abandoned mine tunnels conceals a vein of silver ore mixed with pure gold. Seventy years ago, the discovery of that silver lode caused a murder. Are more coming?

Historian Paul Russell is about to lose his job and the woman he loves. He doesn’t have time to search for the legendary silver lode. But when a student drops a seventy-year-old unsolved cold case on his desk, a murder connected to the silver lode, the mystery offers Paul the perfect opportunity to work with Marty Greenlaw and win her back.

As Paul and Marty search for the silver lode, suspicious deaths begin to happen. When Paul’s son disappears, the stakes become personal.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Suzanne J. Bratcher, Ph.D., delights in writing contemporary mysteries sprinkled with history. Her award-winning novels are set in the very real ghost town of Jerome, Arizona as well as the Four Corners states: New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. Bratcher lives in Phoenix, Arizona. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading with her granddaughter, laughing at her rescue cat, and piecing colorful quilt scraps.

More from Suzanne

When readers ask me where I get my ideas, I sometimes wonder if they expect me to reveal a secret process for starting a book. I only wish I could. But far from proceeding along the steps of a process, each of my books begins with nothing more than a spark that catches my imagination like a match catches a piece of kindling. I pile ideas on the spark and when I have enough for a blaze, I start to write. The spark for The Silver Lode was a 3-D display of the myriad abandoned mining tunnels that crisscross the hill beneath the ghost town of Jerome, Arizona.

The idea for The Silver Lode came to me while I was still an English teacher. So, what was I doing studying a model of a long defunct copper mine when I should have been reading William Faulkner or e.e.  cummings? The reality was-at the time, I had no idea I was studying a copper mine. I thought I was visiting an old house.

The first time I turned off Arizona Highway 89A to visit Jerome State Historic Park, I wanted to tour to the Douglas mansion, the park headquarters. I love old houses. I’ve visited Thomas Jefferson’s home, George Washington’s, numerous antebellum mansions scattered throughout the South, and the family homes of many famous American writers. The Douglas Mansion, then, was a natural stop. But besides old houses, I also love research-learning simply for the sake of learning. I don’t have to have a specific goal in mind to enjoy adding bits of information to my hodgepodge of knowledge.

So…as I strolled through the high-ceilinged rooms in the Douglas mansion, I found myself drawn into the history of copper mining in Jerome. In addition to the three-dimensional display of the mine tunnels, I saw shelves of rocks and minerals bathed in ultraviolet light, a wall of photographs of the Douglas family that included one of Winston Churchill’s sisters, and a video that told the story of the ghosts of Cleopatra Hill. My interest piqued, I plunged more deeply into research. I bought books and read firsthand accounts of life in the billion-dollar copper camp. I visited the Jerome Historical Society and read yellowing newspapers. I ventured into the Mining Museum and wandered through a reconstructed mineshaft. I searched the internet for information about mining in the late 1800s and early 1900s, whether for copper, silver, or gold.

By now I was actively working on a plot that would revolve around mining for silver in Jerome. Because The Silver Lode was the second book in my trilogy of Jerome mysteries, I already had the main characters for the story. In my head I could see Scott, a young teenager, exploring those interlocking tunnels under the town. But I didn’t know what he was looking for. I needed another spark to start that fire.

I ran across it quite accidentally as I was reading about a large deposit of silver mixed with gold discovered in Virginia City, Nevada in 1859. Dubbed a silver lode, it was one of the richest deposits of its kind ever discovered. Of course, the Comstock Lode had nothing to do with mining in Jerome between the two World Wars. Nor did the history of Nevada influence the history of Arizona in the 1920s. Still, as I read about a large deposit of silver mixed with gold called a silver lode, I knew I had found both the treasure and the title for the story I was working on.

The next big story question was “Who else is looking for the silver lode?”  In other words, “Who is the villain?” It was clear I needed secondary characters to drive the search for my imaginary silver lode buried deep in Cleopatra Hill. These characters came from my research into the families who built the town of Jerome and spread down the hill to build Clarkdale. I had my ideas.

Now…back to the question my readers sometimes ask: where do I get the ideas for my mysteries? The answer is as simple as it is complicated: I get my ideas from research. As I write, I use these ideas as a springboard so that they appear in camouflage. When you read The Silver Lode, I hope you find these nuggets of fact buried deep in the imaginary story of the long ago murder of a college student’s grandfather, a contemporary search for a legendary silver lode, and a desperate rush to save a child’s life.

My Impressions

“When I’m facing something I know is bigger than my strength, I repeat Philippians 4:13 three times, adapted a bit. ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, even __.”

Who hasn’t, at one time or another, wanted to uncover a long-buried treasure  or solve a mystery that has eluded people for decades? Suzanne J. Bratcher, a new-to-me author, takes both of these ideas and skillfully melds them together, along with great faith lessons, in The Silver Lode. 

Dr. Paul Russell assigns his college students to interview a family member about an important historical event of their lifetime. Alex Reyes’s take on that assignment leads Dr. Paul Russell and his family and friends on a quest for the truth about a rumored silver mine in the area and a suspected murder 70 years old. 

It was nice to read about a conflicted romance such as between Marty and Paul. Nice because Marty’s hesitation to accept Paul as a serious suitor is grounded in the reality of one considering becoming a step-parent to a teen. Not an easy decision. 

It is also interesting to see the growth in Scott, the teen son of Paul, as he emerges from mourning his mother’s death. We get to see how his relationships with his dad, a friend who needs a dad, and Marty, his dad’s potential girlfriend, develop. Will Scott cling to the familiar, or will he allow room for relationships to grow, to change, or even new ones to develop?

I’m sure I had sweaty palms and short breaths a few times as I read about the dangers that are inherent in exploring a possible murder. Or an old mine shaft. The action kept me glued to my seat. The romance, the job anxiety, the relationship angst, and the four-year-old fundraiser recipient all tightened the weave of the story into a very beautiful tapestry. 

I’m going to award favorite secondary character to Sophia, who knows the Russell family from years prior. She is a sweet and wise woman who is also a good friend to Marty. She is able to listen to Marty’s misgivings and give godly advice. “…sometimes God makes something different out of our lives than we expected. It’s kind of hard when that happens because we find ourselves in territory we don’t have a map for.” Amazing when God steps into our lives and opens our eyes with apt words from a friend! I also loved how this theme of leaving behind the old expectations we have for our lives and accepting a new direction God is sending us in, plays out in so many different characters’ lives in different aspects. 

I enjoyed seeing a bit of the antique business as Marty is shown at work, as she develops her showroom.

The twist!! When we are out of options, Bratcher throws in a great twist!! I liked that almost as much as I enjoyed the unique ending of the novel, that I could see some creatives actually doing. 

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

Notable Quotables:

 “Commitment meant work.” ( Paul)

“…the best opener” [in a conversation] “was the truest thing he knew about himself.” (Paul)

“God creates new things.” – Sophia

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! I now need to go back and find the other two books in this series!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 8

Simple Harvest Reads, January 9 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol , January 9

Bizwings Blog, January 10

Artistic Nobody, January 11 (Author Interview)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 12

Guild Master, January 13 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Corner, January 14

Fiction Book Lover, January 15 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 16

A Reader’s Brain , January 17 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, January 18

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 19 (Author Interview)

Books Less Travelled, January 20 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 20

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, January 21 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Certificate, a print copy of the book, and a bookmark!!

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

https://gleam.io/n6moC/the-silver-lode-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, Launch Team, Purchase

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