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Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills Review and Giveaway

September 11, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Canyon of Deceit
Author: DiAnn Mills
Publisher: Tyndale Fiction
Release Date: September 9, 2025
Genre: Romantic Mystery & Suspense

A rescue team searches for a missing young girl and suspects all is not as it seems in this high-stakes romantic suspense novel from the author of Lethal Standoff and Facing the Enemy.

When wilderness survival expert Therese Palmer receives a frantic phone call from former colleague Professor Rurik Ivanov, she is shocked by the news that his young daughter, Alina, is missing—and that Rurik wants Therese’s help finding her. She’s sure Rurik hasn’t given her the whole story . . . especially since he refuses to report the kidnapping to the police. Yet with a child’s life hanging in the balance, Therese can’t turn down this mission. She knows the clock is ticking and she can’t do this alone.

Therese reaches out to Texas Ranger Blane Gardner, whom she met seven months ago during one of her training courses in wilderness survival skills. Blane’s specialized training and background with the Crisis Negotiation Unit make him uniquely prepared for this search-and-rescue mission. He agrees to help Therese and to accept Rurik’s terms to keep Alina’s disappearance quiet, and as the two begin working together, Therese is determined the spark growing between them won’t distract from their mission to save Alina.

Traversing deep into the desert of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Alina’s last known location, Therese and Blane struggle to separate truth from lies within the mix of intel they’re receiving. As they close in on answers that suggest the involvement of Russian organized crime and a high-profile international assassination attempt, they must fight to rescue Alina before she becomes an innocent casualty of a much bigger plot—no matter the risk to their own lives.

About the Author

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She weaves memorable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels with threads of romance. DiAnn believes every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and create a thrilling adventure?

Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards, the Selah Award, and the Golden Scroll; and been finalists for the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award and the Carol Award.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and an active member of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers, the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, and International Thriller Writers. DiAnn continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.

DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.

DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on social media or her website, diannmills.com

My Impressions

“Hope is a reason to live when the world erupts into madness.”

This quote is an absolute fave, and given the timing I read it, it applies super well in multiple ways to our country and world today! Diann Mills’s Canyon of Deceit is billeted as a romantic mystery and suspense, but I would also add the category of political thriller. Expecting romantic suspense with lots of continuous action, I felt the storyline didn’t move as fast as I expected at first. Being such a politically-based novel, there were a lot of mental gymnastics to work through in this 1st person , alternate narrator pov. Blane, a Texas Ranger and top-notch negotiator, and Therese, the best wilderness survival guide, must locate a kidnapped Russian child in Fog Canyon, a dangerous part of the Guadalupe National Park. Their former attraction rears its head, as do their painful pasts. But what set my mind spinning ( and theirs) was whose intel to trust. Trusting the wrong person will cost them time, but most likely their lives, that of 8-year-old Alina, and ultimately, possibly untold others.

Twists!! As I stuck with the story, I began to be able to sort out the multiple characters, see the need for so many, and was totally surprised more than once just as I thought I had the “bad guy head honcho” figured out!!

By this time, I was well-invested in the characters! I wanted Blane to do more than blame God for tragedy in his past. His honest thought is one that I find interesting, and I have personally heard from another non-believing friend. “A bit ironic to blame someone I didn’t believe in.” Blane knows God is after Him… but does he want to forgive God- or himself?

Interestingly enough, Therese also is dealing with her fear of failure from the past, plus fear. Can she trust God enough to forgive herself? I love that she keeps returning to her Source of strength, even in the midst of impossible odds. “God understood my doubts, and He’d help me.” Another thought she shared with Blane until he was tired of her God talk!

“You’re not afraid?” “Depends on how you define fear. For me exploring new territory and revisiting special places is a type of respect, a mix of love and fear.” I swung another look at the sky. “Like how I feel about God.” But the one that personally shores me up, I will share below.

While I was uncertain about how invested I could become in these characters, I found that the political aspect just needed more time to establish the character’s uncertainties and complexities that made for great action and twists once we had enough information in our arsenal. The inclusion of a wonderfully brave, sweet, 8-year- old certainly drew me into the story with tattered heartstrings!

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

Notable Quotables:

“Every problem has a solution, and it usually involves teamwork.”– Sergio

“It’s not what we lose that defines our character—it’s what we learn.”- Therese

“We called this fence-coffee on the ranch. The only thing available when riding fence. Tastes like it was brewed over a pile of manure.”– Blane (just for laughs)

So many times I’d asked why evil and injustice exist. But if I had the answers, God wouldn’t be God.” – Therese

“I sent a silent prayer to the One who routinely out-negotiated the devil.”– Therese- (what comfort that sentence brings!)

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent!

Mills won me over with her great political intrigue and complex mystery with unexpected twists!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Canyon of Deceit and $25 gift card to winner’s choice bookstore!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 9, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 16, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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

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

The Recluse’s Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti Review and Giveaway

September 11, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Recluse’s Vindication by Danielle Grandinetti, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Title: The Recluse’s Vindication
Series: Our House on Heather Wynd
Author: Danielle Grandinetti
Publisher: Hearth Spot Press
Release Date: September 12, 2025
Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense

The Loch Ness Monster isn’t the only recluse seeking a Scottish haven.

Bieldfell. Scotland, 1933—Falsely accused of murder sixteen years ago, American cowboy Benjamin Ford has chosen to hide out in the Scottish Highlands. Reclusive and not afraid to die, he rescues children out of an increasingly dangerous Germany. When his childhood best friend appears at his door, he’s not the boy she remembers.

Eleanor Finch’s life ended sixteen years ago. In one horrible day, she lost her dreams, her reputation, and her heart. However, she never gives up the hope of finding her friend, so when she learns of Ben’s whereabouts, she leaves all that is familiar to convince him to return home.

But Eleanor isn’t the only person searching for Ben. Hunters follow her trail. The thin veil of gossip and rumor may be their only chance of a future … unless the Loch Ness Monster is real after all.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon

Also Available

About the Author

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

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

My Impressions

“It’s been sixteen years, Eleanor. Are you ready for who we’ll find?”– Hiram

First of all, let me say The Recluse’s Vindication has joined my short list of books I definitely plan to reread! I thought Danielle Grandinetti couldn’t come up with a hero I would like more than Gio from another of her books, but Benjamin Ford certainly gives Gio competition! Le Sigh!

I was thrilled to open the book to find a readable on kindle! color map at the front. Kudos.

I loved the tie-ins of this novella with two others of Grandinetti’s, Heart of Beauty and The Italian Musician’s Sanctuary. However, it’s not necessary to have read these books or even others in this series to enjoy this one.

As Eleanor travels from Montana to Scotland in 1933 to find a man who had once been her closest friend and bring him home, she is unprepared for who and what she discovers. What will she do with her new knowledge? Will she fight for the friendship, get involved in something that requires her facing yet another monster, or will she go home to live in fear and loneliness?

A beautiful story of learning to forgive oneself. Of wrestling with the hard questions. When does doing the wrong thing become right? Is a person obligated to help others at risk of their own life? What promises are so important that, no matter what, one refuses to break them? Does heredity determine character? “The grandson of a beast, the son of a monster, a man who had already killed with his bare hands. He would accept the mantle God laid on him and trade his soul so the innocent could live.”

Amelie totally stole my heart, just as she did Ben’s and Eleanor’s. And baby Max? The children part of the book nearly broke my heart. But I questioned myself- like Eleanor did herself- was her heart ( or is mine) broken enough to take action?

I enjoyed the inclusion of the legend of Nessie, including the real person who was rumored to have seen the Loch Ness Monster.

I received a copy of the book from the author and JustRead Tours. I also bought my own copy.

Notable Quotables:

“I think people vilify what they don’t understand. What they think is different, alien. Outside of what they consider normal.”– Ben

“There was no limit to what else he’d give up for them, including his heart, his soul, and even his life.”- Ben

“He knew clouds could not hide him from God or hide God from him, but at the moment, they felt like an iron shield. Or perhaps that was merely his conscience. Yet God felt as far away as home.” – Ben

”As soon as she asked the question, she wished to take it back. It bled with all the hope she’d packed into her luggage for the trip to Scotland.” – Eleanor

“We all must make sacrifices, or cruelty wins.”-Heda

“It wasn’t just reasonable, it was heroic. You’re a hero. You’re my hero.” ( Le Sigh!)

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! I will be hopping on over to the author’s website to pick up my paperback copy for my keeper shelf!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive paperback copies of: The Recluse’s Vindication, The Italian Musician’s Sanctuary, & The Heart of Beauty, all by Danielle Grandinetti!

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

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

ARC, BLOG, JustRead Tour

A Lady Divided by Sandra Ardoin Review and Giveaway

August 29, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Lady Divided by Sandra Ardoin, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Lady Divided
Series: House of Fire #1
Author: Sandra Ardoin
Publisher: Corner Room Books
Release Date: August 28, 2025
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Just when she thinks she’s defeated the past, it returns with a vengeance.

Fighting to keep her late husband’s dream alive and her land-grabbing neighbors at bay, Laurel Tillman longs for a peace she knew before the war. But when her skill with a rifle saves a stranger from a mountain lion attack—a man whose life she once wouldn’t have hesitated to take—wartime memories rush back.

While raising her daughter and taking responsibility for the stray women who work on her sheep ranch, Laurel can’t wait to get the injured Yankee out of her house. Getting him out of her heart is an entirely different matter.

Quinn Spencer, a former Union cavalry officer, owes Laurel a debt, but his career as a new lawyer in town comes with a warning to stay away from the unconventional women of La Casa del Fuego. Then, with the discovery of a dead man on Laurel’s ranch, Quinn must choose between his career and justice for a woman who can’t bear the sight of him.

As they battle an unknown adversary who sets out to destroy Laurel, will she join forces with her former enemy? Or will she allow the past to overcome any chance of a truce between them . . . and, possibly, something more?

Meet the women of La Casa del Fuego—House of Fire—as they are forced by circumstances to live their lives outside the bounds of accepted femininity.

Also Available

About the Author

As the author of reader-described heartwarming historical and contemporary romance, Sandra Ardoin engages readers with page-turning stories of love and faith.

She is the married mother of a young adult and co-sitter for a granddog. As well as being a team member in her church’s library, she reads Christian fiction, binges TV shows with her husband, and seldom says no to eating out.

Visit her at sandraardoin.com. Connect with her on BookBub, Facebook, X, and Goodreads. Subscribe to the newsletter and keep up with what’s new, discover what’s upcoming, and learn of specials.

My Impressions

“The past was an evil devil to fight.”

Who doesn’t remember “The Island of Misfit Toys”? Sandra Ardoin’s A Lady Divided ( House of Fire, Bk#1) brings that concept to mind in human form. We are transported back in time to a few years (1877) after the Civil War in Texas. Our nation has started to rebuild, but some find it hard to forget the atrocities of the war and even harder to forgive those who hail from the other side of the Mason-Dixon Line. Instead of an island of misfit toys, we have a ranch of “misfit women.” Women who have been wounded by life, and rejecthe acceptable society norms of femininity at that time. At their helm is widow Mrs. Laurel Tillman, who lives on a ranch with her widowed mother and young daughter. The few ranch hands she has, like her, dress like men and do ranch jobs that make them the fodder for malicious gossip in a world concerned with conformity.

When Laurel saves the life of former Union Major Quinn Spencer who happens on her land, an enemies-to-possibly more relationship is established. But, oh, Laurel has guilt from the past that she is sure God could never forgive, and she carries the burden of the safety of all the ranch women like a heavy yoke.

“Oh, if only she could feel the rest that Jesus promised. The peace. But her sinful actions were too great.” As Laurel deals with the mountain of unrest in her heart, her bitterness threatens to eat her alive, and often those around her. Yet, those closest to her can see her actions come from her conflicted heart, reflecting the conflict of the divided States. Yet, she refuses to lay her burden down. Her mother tries to reach her, only to have Laurel turn a deaf ear. “I hate to see you suffer like this. He’s waiting, Laurel. All you have to do is walk toward Him. ‘Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’”

I loved this story for its unwrapping of the human emotions that are buried ( or not) just under the surface in a nation yet divided. I loved the understanding of the women that they could do hard work and it was respectable, even if it wasn’t acceptable in society. I yearned for the secrets that both Laurel and Quinn keep close to their vests. The constant mystery and danger from the the world outside Laurel’s ranch bubble make for an exciting read, as does the faith journey that so many of the characters are required to make. Will they progress towards what is right, or will they choose the comfortable answers to appease those around them? Convicting as I tried to put myself in their shoes!

Oh, yes! Did I mention humor and twists?! Be prepared! They are the cream cheese icing on a great carrot cake!

I had a three-way tie for fave secondary characters. Ernie, Becky, and the Marshall. And I love that we are well-set up for sequels!

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

Notable Quotables:

“…no one’s past is as it should be.” …“The only person in this world who never sinned was Jesus. His sacrifice gave imperfect human beings like you and me the way to become perfect in God’s sight.” – Quinn

“God still loves me. He never turned His back on me. Even though I turned mine on Him, He waited for me to return.”- Laurel

“How could she live in peace with others when she found it so hard to live peacefully with herself?”– Laurel

“Did she dare to think God loved her so much that He allowed the death of His own Son for someone like her? No. There must be an exception, a limit to His grace and mercy.”- Laurel

“‘I don’t hate you. Momma always said I shouldn’t hate.’ When had that stopped her? ‘But I see nothing wrong with comparing you to a long-tailed rodent.’”– Laurel- taste of novel’s humor!

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! 5 big Texas stars!!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card and two (2) ebooks of their choice from Sandra Ardoin’s Published Books!

(1) winner will receive three (3) ebooks of their choice from Sandra Ardoin’s Published Books

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 25, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 1, 2025. Winners 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!

ARC, Barbour, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn Review and Giveaway

August 27, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Undercover Heiress of Brockton

Author: Kelly J. Goshorn

Genre: Christian Fiction / Romance / Historical Fiction

Release Date: August 1, 2025

A Socialite in Disguise Seeks Truth and Justice

Henrietta “Etta” Maxwell is a hard-hitting investigative reporter for The Enterprise Daily. The catch? Etta must pen her columns under the nom de plume, Henry Mason—a fact that routinely puts a knot in her knickerbockers.

Leo Eriksson is a second-generation firefighter with a passion for rendering aid to those in need. When Leo discovers that Henry Mason is really Henrietta Maxwell, the fire department’s wealthy benefactress, he agrees to keep her identity secret. After a sudden blast rocks the Grover Shoe Factory, Leo and Etta team up to determine if the explosion is related to a series of suspicious fires in the area.

When an unnamed source reveals Etta’s secret identity to a rival reporter, she falsely accuses Leo of being the informant. As the truth comes to light, Etta must persuade Leo to give her a second chance or lose the only man she’s ever loved.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kelly J. Goshornweaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into uplifting stories of love, faith, and family set in nineteenth century America. Her debut novel, A Love Restored, won the Director’s Choice Award for Adult/YA fiction at the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference in 2019, and earned recognition as both a Selah Award finalist in the Historical Romance category and as a Maggie Award Finalist for Inspirational Fiction. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys spending time with her young adult children, binge-watching BBC period dramas, board gaming with her husband, and spoiling her Welsh corgi, Levi.

More from Kelly

A Little Swedish Flavor

Beginning in 1844, Swedish immigrants began arriving in Brockton, Massachusetts. By 1920, Swedes accounted for approximately 30% of the city’s population. Their long-lasting impact on Brockton’s character remains evident today with annual cultural celebrations and religious festivals.

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton is set in the Swedish neighborhood of Campello. My hero Leo Eriksson’s favorite meal is Kalops, a savory beef stew that is traditionally served with boiled potatoes and pickled beets. For Leo, a bachelor who takes most of his meals at The Drake Tavern, the dish recalls happy childhood memories of his mother’s cooking.

Kalops contains typical stew ingredients like carrots, celery, onions, and garlic, but what makes this dish unique is the addition of allspice. Allspice adds a warm spicey flavor to the recipe that makes it perfect for a chilly winter day.

I had the opportunity to taste test this recipe, and while I would never brag about my own cooking skills, I have to say that it turned out quite well. I’d love to hear from you if you decide to give this traditional Swedish dish a try.

Kalops (Swedish Beef Stew)

Recipe courtesy of Skandibaking.

SERVINGS: 6

Prep Time: 20 minutes mins

Cook Time: 2 hours

INGREDIENTS

2.4 lbs chuck roast (or other beef cut suited for stews)

1 medium onion

2 cloves garlic

3 large carrots

1 stalk celery

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tbsp butter

3 tbsp flour

1/4 tsp ground allspice (or more to taste!)

2-3 bay leaves

3 cups beef stock (can also use water and bouillon)

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

SERVED WITH: 7 large potatoes

INSTRUCTIONS

Prep the beef by cutting into 1 inch cubes. Season well with salt.
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil when preheated and add beef in one layer, searing on all sides. If you need to sear the meat in batches, you can remove one batch before adding the next to ensure that it browns well.
Dice your onion and celery while the beef is cooking (or prep ahead of time). Finely mince the garlic cloves.
Once the meat is browned on all sides, add in the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until just softened.
Chop your carrots into bite sized pieces. You can either add the carrots now if you like them super soft or add them with about 45 minutes left of cooking if you prefer them to have more of a bite.
Add one tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Once melted, add in three tablespoons of flour and stir until everything is coated. Add in ground allspice.
Pour in beef stock, stirring while adding to dissolve the flour coating. Once all of it has mixed in, add in 2-3 bay leaves. Now is a good time to taste for initial seasoning – add in salt and pepper to taste.
Bring to a boil, lower the heat to a simmer and cover. Let the stew simmer for about an hour and 15 minutes; add more water or stock if needed! Now is also the time to add the carrots if you want them to be less soft.
Simmer for an additional 45 minutes or until the beef is very tender – in the meantime, prepare the potatoes for serving.
Prep potatoes by peeling and cutting in half. Place in a pot with cold water and add salt. Heat over medium-high heat with the lid on until it boils. Remove the lid and boil for about 15 minutes or until a knife poked into the center of a potato releases easily (you can also just taste for doneness!). Drain and set aside until ready to serve.
Remove bay leaves. Check for final seasoning (add more salt if needed). Add stew to bowls and serve with boiled potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if you would like. Enjoy!

My Impressions

“God gave you a heart to fight injustice and an amazing ability to persuade others with your pen to stand up for what is right. Don’t hide your talent. Embrace who He has made you to be so your gifts can glorify the Giver.”

I just finished The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn. A historical romance, it is the second in the Barbour series, Enduring Hope. The series features brave, unconventional women who face a tragedy, whether natural or human- caused, and work to give hope to those affected by it. Along the way, they find hope for their own happily-ever-after romances, but with as many glitches in the romance department as in their fight for human or female equality.

I loved the conflicted (and very flawed!)characters of both Leo, a hunky firefighter and Etta, an heiress who poses as a man to keep her coveted job of top writer for one of Brockton’s newspapers!

Etta, handed anything she could desire on a silver platter, wants desperately to earn something in her own right, under her own name. While “Henry Mason” is the best-respected newspaper reporter in Brockton, Etta wants to his byline under her own name. (“It’s very hard to pretend to be someone else most of the time when all you want to be is yourself.” ) When arson and insurance company irregularities crop up in the city, she starts investigating. Then she is drawn into a shoe factory explosion that happens before her eyes. How far will Etta go, ethically and as one who professes to care for others in Christ’s name, to get her own byline?

Leo can’t help but be attracted to the independent, unconventional, intelligent Etta. But, as things progress in the romance department, he has a problem: “the only thing stopping him from taking her in his arms and kissing her soundly was that bushy mustache.” So hilarious!! Leo has agreed to help Etta in her undercover investigation, but discovers Etta not only in disguise half the time, but how can he reconcile the two separate personalities that emerge, not always lining up with what he expects out of a faith perspective? “How could a woman as compassionate as Etta Maxwell write articles devoid of any feeling about a tragedy on the scale of the Grover Shoe Factory?”

I had never heard of the Brockton shoe factory fire. What an education I got! And to see the persistence of a woman who wants to break through what had been considered a man’s world, and the lengths one might go to, in order to obtain that! Wowzers!

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

Notable Quotables:

“Loving someone means embracing the person God has made them to be. If we hold on to them too tightly, we risk suffocating them and crushing their spirit. I think it best to love fully, with our entire being for a short time, rather than safely, and bear the pain of regret for our entire lives.”

“He’d promised himself not to pursue her, but somehow, spending time with her shattered that pledge into a hundred little pieces, each sharp enough to pierce his heart.”

“There was no creed, no color line, no hostility of capital and labor; the common strifes of men were forgotten, and all were brought closer together in the beautiful harmony of the universal brotherhood. Sorrow, the great leveler, the great arbiter, had done its work.”

“She needed to learn to quit striving, quit trying to make her life turn out just as she hoped, and put more trust in God’s plan for her life.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! Great relatable, flawed characters who are dynamic, and the story is very engaging, educational, and satisfying!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 27

Pens Pages & Pulses, August 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 28

Mornings at Character Cafe, August 28

Texas Book-aholic, August 29

Devoted To Hope, August 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 30

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 31

Blogging With Carol, August 31

Hannahbandanarama, September 1

For Him and My Family, September 1

Stories By Gina, September 2 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, September 2 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

She Lives To Read, September 3

Mary Hake, September 3

Book Looks by Lisa, September 4

Books Less Travelled, September 4

Blossoms and Blessings, September 5

Bizwings Book Blog, September 6

Holly’s Book Corner, September 6

Lily’s Corner, September 7

Jodie Wolfe, September 7

Pause for Tales, September 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 9

Cover Lover Book Review, September 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kelly 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.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54286

ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Just Read Tours, Kindle, NetGalley, PB, Purchase

A Fierce Devotion by Laura Frantz Review

August 8, 2025August 8, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Author: Laura Frantz

Series: Not listed as such, but follow-up to The Seamstress of Acadie

Publisher: Story Architect

Release Date: July 30, 2025

Genre: Historical Romance

Exiled from his native Acadie in Canada, Bleu Galant has little on his mind but survival as the tumultuous French and Indian War comes to a close. When his journey to Virginia’s Rivanna River settlement takes an unexpected turn, he crosses paths with Brielle Farrow—a woman whose presence stirs something in him he cannot explain nor express. Unable to forget her, his decision to help her takes them across an ocean and into a lavish world he’s never known. Will their intricate tie decide not only her fate but his future?

Purchase link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/235740349-a-fierce-devotion

About the Author

Bestselling, award-winning author, Laura Frantz, has been writing stories since age seven. She is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century and her novels often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Proud of her heritage, she is also a Daughter of the American Revolution. Though she will always consider Kentucky home, she and her husband live in Washington State.

According to Publishers Weekly, “Frantz has done her historical homework.” With her signature attention to historical detail and emotional depth, she is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California. Foreign language editions include French, Dutch, Spanish, Slovakian, German & Polish.

Readers can find Laura Frantz at http://www.laurafrantz.net

*Subscribe to Laura’s seasonal newsletter and receive new release information, news about contests, giveaways, and reader events, sneak peaks and teasers, signings and appearances, and more!

My Impressions

“She prayed whatever he saw in her was bon. As bon as what she saw in him.”

I don’t think I’ve anticipated another book book as much as Laura Frantz’s A Fierce Devotion! Her inspirational historical fiction, The Seamstress of Acadie, captured my heart and imagination like nothing else! The Seamstress tells of the English expulsion of the Canadian-French Acadians. That story introduced Bleu, mixed-blood brother of Sylvie. A Fierce Devotion, a novella, picks up the thread of Bleu, another Acadian deeply scarred by the racial hatred exhibited by the conquerers. The “French and Indian War” (or the “Seven Years’ War) has just ended. The book is mesmerizing, lyrical, and a feast of beautiful descriptions. Absolutely stunning!

Despite his mixed heritage, Bleu is a sought-after bachelor in both his Acadian world and his Mi’kmaq world. Yet it is the indentured servant, Brielle Farrow, he discovers following happening upon a deadly raid scene, that grows on his heart.

Bleu is not the type to settle down though, and he is a much-sought after scout. Brielle doesn’t share his heritage, nor much of his French language, either.

I was laughing so hard at the one pivotal French sentence that Bleu shares in with his sister in Brielle’s presence! ( which Frantz explains in English!) It’s always amazing in life, when we miss one sentence or word that could change our whole attitude!!

How can these two find enough in common to even consider a relationship, when competition abounds and there are surprising factors that will put up even more barriers between them?

I loved the French phrases, but Frantz explains them for non-French speakers( a must for readers!)

Character growth? Given what both Bleu and Brielle have endured, there is going to have to be a lot of forgiveness learned, even for those who don’t ask for it. Sylvie ( Bleu’s sister) and he are discussing this issue one day: “For a long time I felt like you. I still do though my ire doesn’t burn as bright. I’ve only moved past it by choosing a new life here and letting the past rest.” (Sylvie)

I loved, loved, loved, this book!! There’s an old French rowing song I would borrow a line from, “Jamais je ne t’oublierai!!” ( NEVER will I forget you!)

I received a copy of the book from Just Read via Netgalley. I bought my own ebook, plus additional pb copies for myself and another’s keeper shelves. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Do you believe in coincidence?” “Nay. Divine instances, rather.” “This is one of them.”

“…you’ll find that the Almighty fills the emptiness with Himself along with countless other blessings.”– Sylvie

“Nothing is more important than family. When you’ve lost much you treasure those who remain.” Bleu

“The unknown was always frightening no matter how many times you faced it.”

My Rating

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Superior! Giving hearts for stars, because *le sigh!*

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

The Reverend’s Second Chance by Lauralyn Keller Review and Giveaway

July 21, 2025July 21, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Reverend’s Second Chance

Author: Lauralyn Keller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 15, 2025

A buried secret in Harmony Springs could cost a pastor and a teacher their careers—and their second chance at love.

Lydia Jefferson buried her dreams long before the death of her husband. Now she’s locked her heart to men for good. In Harmony Springs, she’s finally found freedom from the shameful failure and loss of her past—until her childhood sweetheart arrives to be the new pastor.

Samuel Allen never thought he’d love again, not after his fiancée walked out of his life. But when his first church assignment sends him to Harmony Springs, he finds himself face to face with the woman who disappeared from his life seven years before. Could this be a second chance at love? Unfortunately, she wants nothing to do with him.

When an orphaned child brings Lydia and Samuel together again, can they face the pain of their past and learn to trust each other enough to build a home?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lauralyn Keller loves to combine history and romance in stories that touch the heart. She lives in beautiful Colorado and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, hiking, and reading.

More from Lauralyn

Baking is one of my favorite activities. I find it relaxing, and it’s so fun trying new recipes. You might have noticed that there are generally some kind of dish or treat in my stories that characters really like. For Lydia Jefferson in The Reverend’s Second Chance, that treat is a cookie called cinnamon jumbles. It plays a part in her love story with Samuel Allen, the new pastor for Harmony Springs.

I asked ChatGPT how to make the best cinnamon jumbles. Here’s what it came up with.

Cinnamon jumbles are such a cozy, nostalgic treat! They’re chewy cookies with the perfect balance of cinnamon sugar, and they’re pretty easy to make. Here’s a recipe that will give you soft, chewy cinnamon jumbles with a nice little crunch on the outside.

Best Cinnamon Jumbles Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for rolling)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined. Don’t overmix—this will keep your cookies tender.
Roll the Dough: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon for rolling. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Bake: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Softness: For softer cookies, don’t overbake them. The cookies will continue to cook a little as they cool on the baking sheet.
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They should stay soft for about 3-4 days. 😊

I (Lauralyn) hope you enjoy this cookie recipe. Maybe you can even make them and enjoy a few with a nice cup of coffee or tea while reading The Reverend’s Second Chance. Lydia would approve.

God bless,

Lauralyn

My Impressions

“… ‘not forgiving hurts you in the end. It hurts your relationship with God too.’ He pointed to the cross over the altar. ‘Considering what He did for us—dying to forgive our sins—I think we should take our example from Him.’”

The easy, gentle romance and historical Western aspects of Lauralyn Keller’s The Reverend’s Second Chance were a breath of fresh air this week. I was certainly in the mood for this novel, which is easy to read and reminiscent of the style of Janette Oke or Kim Vogel Sawyer books. This is a marriage of convenience story, where much of the book’s action takes place after said marriage.

Lydia and Samuel had been childhood sweethearts who were separated by poor decisions and time. Shocked to find themselves together in the same small town, Samuel realizes his feelings for her never changed. Lydia, however, is determined to stay far away emotionally.

I was thankful to see that Lydia had good friends and a mother-in-law who loved her enough to see the roots of her problem with Samuel are anger and bitterness. “Forgiveness doesn’t come easily…you owe it to yourself to forgive him. It’s only going to eat at you more and more until bitterness is your constant companion.”– Dorothy

When the marriage occurs, Lydia brings no love. Instead, she brings a walled heart, determined not to be hurt again. Maybe she can forgive, but trust? Again, Lydia’s confidants point out that love is more than a feeling, but a choice. “Love is hard,” Cassie said. “It means making the decision every day to love the person you vowed to cherish. Sometimes you won’t feel it, but you can still choose it.”

With all the feels of Little House on the Prairie or When Calls the Heart, this story from the 1880s Montana Territory will serve up a generous slice of small town life with its challenges, friendships, and victories. I must applaud Ruby and Alice, 6-year-olds, as adorable scene stealers! My fave adult characters are John and Dorothy, with their non-judgmental ways and sage, godly advice.

Book 2 in the Second Chances in Harmony Springs series, I thought this book stood well on its own. Highly recommended!

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

Notable Quotables:

“Some family you’re born with. Some family you choose.” -Cassie

“…you can’t let fear hold you captive. We can’t change what’s going to be. But we can choose to trust, no matter what may come.” -John

“You can’t control the feeling of anger, but you can control how you act.” – Cody

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, July 21

lakesidelivingsite, July 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 23

Guild Master, July 24 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 24

Texas Book-aholic, July 25

Simple Harvest Reads, July 26 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys , July 27

For Him and My Family, July 28

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, July 29

Fiction Book Lover, July 30 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, July 30

Vicky Sluiter, July 31

Cover Lover Book Review, August 1

Holly’s Book Corner, August 2

Pause for Tales, August 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lauralyn 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/00adcf54254

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

What Brings Us Joy by Teresa Wells Review and Giveaway

July 17, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog Tour for What Brings Us Joy by Teresa Wells, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: What Brings Us Joy
Series: The Truitts of Texas #1
Author: Teresa Wells
Publisher: Scrivenings Press LLC
Release Date: July 15, 2025
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

1895: After losing their Georgia home, eighteen-year-old Delia Truitt and her family move to Blooming Grove, Texas, to work for a relative on a ramshackle farm. Set on helping her family dig out of their impoverished circumstances, she plans to open a dressmaker’s shop, combining her sewing skills and her keen fashion sense. But owning a business takes money she doesn’t have.

Unless she can finish her quilt in time to enter the county fair. The prize money would be just enough to open her shop. Determined and resourceful, Delia sets her sights on success—until her heart takes an unexpected detour when she meets handsome Clarence Parker.

Bent on respectability, Clarence refuses to let his past get in the way of his future happiness, especially after falling for spirited Delia Truitt. But his hopes shatter when headlines declare members of his former gang have broken out of jail and are heading his way, set on revenge. Though Clarence doesn’t regret testifying against the outlaws, he fears his future with Delia is in jeopardy. Clarence will protect her from the killers, even if it means risking their future together.

Can Clarence keep her safe? And will Delia love him after she finds out about his past?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

About the Author

A former teacher and librarian, Teresa Wells treasures a story threaded with redemption and hope. She loves people, history, and studying the Bible. Teresa is a member of Novel Academy and American Christian Fiction Writers Association, where she volunteers behind the scenes. She lives with her family outside of Dallas, Texas. What Brings Us Joy is her first novel.

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

My Impressions

“There is nothing of worth apart from God. We were made to fear Him and keep His commandments. Apart from Him, we are nothing.”

I enjoyed this historical romance by new author Teresa Wells. A story of two individuals’ dreams, the novel is woven around the setting of a small Texas town just before the turn of the twentieth century. Each chapter starts with a quotation regarding “crazy quilts” a popular fad among women from about 1875-1900.

Delia Truitt’s family has been forced to leave their Georgia home and rely on the goodness of her father’s brother. Unfortunately, the job and home he offers them give little hope to the newcomers. Delia is independent and progressive. She may not be the best homemaker, but she has a wonderful ability to sew, and uses it to make crazy quilts. They are, as she tells her new beau Clarence, her identity.

Clarence Parker, meanwhile, has a background that he is forced to share with Delia’s family as he asks to court her. As Clarence explains more to Delia about his change of lifestyle, he says, “‘He said God could redeem my past.’ He stopped pacing and faced her. ‘Even though I can’t go back and change things, I can move forward in the right direction.’” Clarence, conscience clear, begins to dream of owning the hardware and carriage store, plus a wife and family.

Every good romance needs a meddler of some kind, right? There are a couple in this book, and one elicits my severe dislike. Why are her machinations not obvious sooner to the other characters?

Besides the romance progression, and dreams starting to fall in place for Delia and Clarence, we get to meet their families and see individual relationships. I really enjoyed meeting Delia’s sister and brothers. Delia’s parents are very caring and encouraging, though her mother is not a fan of her art.

Clarence’s family has had a tougher time. We meet Sallie, who befriends Delia, but there are underlying problems in this family rear their heads. One of Clarence’s early decisions has had repercussions that are lasting and divisive. Will the family ever heal from this? What about the baggage that Clarence carries?

Topics of truth, forgiveness, listening to God, and extending grace to others are sewn into the story’s fabric.

I recommend this book to historical romantic fiction fans and those who enjoy tales of old Texas. I received a copy of the book from JustReadTours. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“There’s joy in following the path he’s laid before us. God uses willing people, no matter what the task. He’ll put my talent to use, no matter where He sends me.” – Eleanor Baskin

“Independence is a powerful drug, Delia. It can be life-giving, and it can be lethal.”- Clarence

“Sometimes we must walk a hard road before we find joy. And sometimes, hard roads must be walked, whether or not joy awaited.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great! I’ll be looking for more in this saga of The Truitts of Texas!

Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each receive a $25 Amazon gift card, a print copy of What Brings Us Joy, and items related to the book!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 14, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 21, 2025. Winners 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!

ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Just Read Tours, Kindle, Launch Team, NetGalley, PB, Purchase, Revell

Fire Mountain by Dana Mentink Spotlight and Excerpt plus Review& Giveaway

July 9, 2025July 8, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for Fire Mountain by Dana Mentink hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Fire Mountain
Series: Elements of Danger #1
Author: Dana Mentink
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: July 1, 2025
Genre: Mystery & Romantic Suspense

Fire rains from above as they fight to discover the truth and stay alive.

In the shadow of a threatening volcano, long-haul trucker Kit Garrido wakes up in her crashed big rig, unable to recall what happened or why she’s suddenly in possession of someone’s baby. Fiercely independent, she has to admit that perhaps this time she could use a little help.

As the threat of eruption grows, former cop Cullen Landry refuses to leave his cabin in the evacuation area, which is why he’s the only one left who can help Kit escape the crumpled cab of her truck. He doesn’t want to get tangled up in the mystery of the beautiful woman with an abandoned infant, but when he sees the bullet hole in the windshield and the bloody handprint on the interior, he realizes that he’s in this thing, like it or not.

When two armed men with ill intent approach, the race is on to stay alive, discover the truth, and find the baby’s missing mother–all while a deadly mountain rains fire from above.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Revell | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Dana Mentink is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author. She’s written more than 50 mystery and suspense novels for Love Inspired Suspense, Harvest House, and Poisoned Pen Press. Winner of two ACFW Carol Awards, a Holt Medallion Award, and a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, Dana lives in Northern California with her husband.

Connect with Dana by visiting DanaMentink.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Excerpt

COLD AND ICE-PICK PAIN bored into Kit Garrido’s temples. Her limbs were leaden, her body a deadweight in the driver’s seat of her big rig. Grit coated her tongue and teeth. She tasted blood. Try as she might, she couldn’t reach out to unbuckle her seat belt. Panic bubbled up in-side her.

She felt movement. Someone yanked hard on the pas- senger door, unleashing pulses of pain.

“Ma’am?” A low baritone, rough.

A big hand skimmed her temple, calloused fingers hard like talons. Through her slitted eyelids, a male torso mate- rialized, a large man in a heavy jacket. Warm ash drifted from his baseball cap and settled on her cheek, featherlight.

“What . . . happened?” Her voice was a croak.

“You crashed.” His voice held the trace of a Southern accent. “Volcano’s unsettled everything. Not safe to stay here.”

Not safe? Crashed? Why wouldn’t her mouth work fast enough to spit out the questions? Fear lapped at her insides as he fumbled for her seat belt.

“You’ve got to wake up. Now.”

She forced her eyes farther open, grabbed the wheel. Cold wind raked her cheek. Wind? She lurched into full consciousness so fast her brain rocked in her skull. Green. Everywhere green mixed with brown, the trees of north- ern Washington all around, the rattling pine needles oddly muted by their coating of volcanic ash. A pine cone dropped on her lap through the gaping hole in the windshield. It left a sooty stain on her knee before it bounced off. She stared at it.

How . . .

He was talking, but she couldn’t follow.

She touched her brown ski cap, then the flannel of her favorite long-haul driving jacket, the feel of the fabrics proving to herself she was alive. Somehow. A hiss of es- caping steam commanded her to acknowledge what she desperately didn’t want to see.

Her beautiful Freightliner truck was wedged cab first, jammed in a crevice between two crooked trees. In the side- view mirror she observed an enormous trench of gouged earth that marked her journey from the road above to the place of impact. The shiny yellow cab with its cozy sleep- ing unit, her home for three-hundred-plus days a year, was squashed like the face of a Pekinese. The pristine white trailer she’d washed that morning was no doubt damaged as well. She closed her eyes and pictured the bold font she’d painstakingly chosen for the Garrido Trucking logo. How absurdly proud she’d felt the day the lettering was applied. Her truck. Her business. Her life. Finally.

Muscles in her throat tightened, and tears started down her face.

Crashed. She’d crashed. Everything she’d worked for, gone. The pain in her head intensified. She stared around wildly. “But what happened? How did I wreck?”

The man shrugged. “Dunno. I’m not sure why you’d even be on Pine Hollow Road in the first place. Pretty ridiculous, considering.”

Ridiculous? She bridled as the location sank in. Pine Hollow? Why there? Deep breaths. One, two, three, then she unbuckled and levered herself from the driver’s seat. Pain lanced her left wrist. Broken or sprained? Her shirt was splattered with blood, though she couldn’t feel any cuts.

“Easy,” the man said, arms outstretched as if to catch her.

Why couldn’t she remember what happened? She must have rolled out of her small office solo that morning, like she always did before picking up her load, the last load she dared haul out of a region under an evacuation advisory. She wouldn’t have chosen Pine Hollow, a twisty route that would take her nearer the volatile Mount Ember. Every- thing she’d learned, the geologic facts she’d devoured, left her itching to escape. Had she lost control? Maybe she’d been knocked out by a falling boulder. Had the noxious gasses venting from the volcano’s bulging side overwhelmed her? But why here?

The cold infiltrated her torn jacket, numbing her arms. Faraway, she heard the distant rumble of thunder or maybe another earthquake from the mountain preparing to blow. No sounds of vehicles, sirens, people. Eerie. Terrifying.

Her thoughts were muddy, slow. Get help. She patted her pockets in a futile search for her cell. Gone somewhere.

The satellite radio was her next choice until she realized it had been pierced by the branch that neatly skewered the windshield. Her throat went dry. A few inches to the left and it would have impaled her too. Ruined also was the precious old-school CB she’d rebuilt, which would have instantly connected her with a fellow trucker.

The man was still staring at her. He straightened and leaned closer. “Are you hurt badly? I can carry you.”

She couldn’t make herself answer, so he went on. “Your radio’s crushed, I see. My cell phone has no bars down here. Where’s your phone?”

She jammed her knit cap on tighter. Hurt or not, she wouldn’t let any stranger control the conversation, espe- cially not in her rig. “I’ll find it.”

He shook his head. “You rest a minute. I’m gonna hop out and make sure your truck’s not on fire or anything.” He muscled his way back out the passenger door, the metal protesting with a bloodcurdling shriek.

She didn’t see any sign of his vehicle through the filthy glass. Where had he come from? There were no helpful locals out and about under the present circumstances. Nerves tightened in her stomach. A trucker alone with cargo was vulnerable, a female trucker even more so.

Protect yourself. She fumbled for the crowbar, but the seat was collapsed on top of it. Instead she yanked the fire extinguisher loose, which made her head feel like it was going to detonate. Best she could do. She eased closer to the fractured passenger window.

The ground was a moonscape of ash and debris. The man eased along, a palm on the cab for support, and she got another chance to examine him. Long legs, cowboy boots, flannel shirt, Yankees baseball cap, and a scar—she hadn’t noticed that before. It bisected his left eyebrow. He disappeared around the other side of the rig before return- ing a few moments later. The closer he got, the taller he was, probably six four and muscled. More than a match for her five-foot-five, hundred-ten-pound frame. The fear resurged. Protect yourself.

The extinguisher cut into her clenched palm. He drew close enough to the open passenger door for her to catch the light brown of his eyes, almost translucent like smoke. When he tried to climb aboard, she raised the extinguisher. “Where did you come from?”

His lips quirked. “Originally? South Carolina.” That explained the drawl. “I meant . . .”

“I know what you meant.” He shot a look at the ravaged landscape before he turned back. “Top of the ridge. My cabin’s up there. I was on my roof and I saw you go over the shoulder. I was surprised six ways to Sunday. Didn’t even hear you coming because the wind was howl- ing, and I sure didn’t expect any rigs to be in this area. Anyway, I hightailed it here in my truck. It’s parked up a ways.”

“I don’t know you.” A silly remark.

“Don’t know you either. You from around here?” She wouldn’t tell him where she lived.

“Close.”

He pointed to the fire extinguisher and heaved out a breath. “Are you going to clobber me with that or not? I promise it’s not necessary.” He held up his palms. How does anyone have fingers that long? “You need first aid before we get out of here, and I’m the only one here to give it to you whether you like it or not.” He plucked the kit from the pocket in the door and wiggled it at her. “You’re bleeding.”

“I don’t need first aid.”

He said something in reply, but his words seemed to come from far away, a rushing sound drowning them out as dizziness overcame her.

The extinguisher dropped to the floor, and she sank onto the driver’s seat while he climbed in and slammed the pas- senger door. A wave of nausea enveloped her. Hastily he dumped out the first aid kit and shoved the container under her chin as she wretched. He handed her a clean handker- chief from his pocket with a neat C embroidered on it.

She stared at the precisely folded, pristine cloth.

His cheeks pinked. “I know. No one carries these things anymore. Mama insists, and she sends me a box of ’em every Christmas.” He looked intently at her. “I’m fairly certain you have yourself a concussion.”

Dana Mentink, Fire Mountain

My Impressions

“Not a family, not them. Just . . . united strangers. ‘I know you aren’t a blood family, but people can be put together in unexpected ways.’”Archie

I wanted to check my blood pressure. It had to be high. After finishing Dana Mentink’s Fire Mountain romantic suspense novel, I felt so in tune with the characters, I thought I had run from men who built their money on exploitation. I was nearly sure I was trying desperately to escape a rumbling volcano. I lost myself in the drama, intrigue, baby care, and natural disaster unfolding in the book. So artfully told, I’ll never forget.

An everyman and everywoman hero. That’s what Cullen and Kit are. An ex-policeman, who can’t recover from his last call, and is now a horse rancher. A proud, independent, truck driver whose immediate memory is gone. Why is there a 9-month-old baby in her care? Kit knows nothing about babies. Worse, why is she headed back into the evacuation zone of Mt. Ember, threatening to blow her top? ( Do you either remember Mt. St. Helens or remember learning about her in school?) Since we were nearly across the nation, yet our summer weather was affected for months, I could only imagine how horrifying it would be to be in the danger zone! Plus, while injured, with baby in tow, Kit and Cullen discover someone is after them with deadly weapons!

Fortunately for the reader, Mentink has a great sense of humor. When I thought I would explode myself because of the building suspense, Mentink would insert levity. It might be trading witty lines between Cullen and Kit, or it might involve Archie, a crusty former Marine who had refused to leave his home on the mountain.

I loved Archie’s character! He is an enigma to be sure! Rough and gruff, yet “grandpa” with the baby.

In some ways, this book reads like a nightmare. Just when you think Kit and Cullen might be safe, either the mountain creates terror or Nico and Simon are hot on their trail again. However, Fire Mountain has embers of hope, where romance, character strength, and faith shine through.

One faith message is that of forgiveness. Kit has struggled with the absence of forgiveness in her past. Plus, she has a past she’s not proud of. “God forgives you for all that, Kit,”says Cullen.

“You’re not credible to say that though, are you?”…”Because you don’t believe what you say, deep down. You don’t live like it anyway,” Kit retorts. Ouch!

I find it interesting that Kit compares two sides of unforgiveness to equating oneself to God. “If a person can’t accept forgiveness themselves, or refuses to give it to someone else, it puts them in the place of God, doesn’t it?” Just in case it sounds like there is a lot of headtime in this book, let me say there are snatches. They are sandwiched between the desperate and the good times, perfectly placed to stimulate thinking, without losing the quick pace of this breathtaking story.

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

Notable Quotables:

“There’s your plan, and God’s plan, and yours doesn’t count.”– Kit’s father

“Rose- colored glasses aren’t going to keep us from dying.” “I prefer to attribute it to experience. I’ve seen God do plenty of miracles, so why not another one here and now?”– Kit, Cullen

“loving someone was one thing. Living it out was altogether different…”

“This moment, these days, his life, would be over when God said so. Not a moment before.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Superior! I am having a bit of trouble remembering that I was NOT a part of this spectacular drama! I won’t soon forget it!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of Fire Mountain and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight July 9, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 16, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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

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

Angel from the East by Barbara A. Curtis Review and Giveaway

July 7, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Angel from the East

Author: Barbara A. Curtis

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: June 24, 2025

His path to redemption lies in the hands of the citified newcomer who believes the worst of him.

Caleb Morgan has had everything stolen from him—his strength, the job he loved, even his good name. He’s determined to even the score with the man responsible, until he meets the captivating new owner of the Double E Ranch. Though he’s drawn to her compassion, he fears she may never see beyond his supposed wrongdoings, unless he can prove his innocence and reclaim his honor.

Eliza Roberts is a teacher, not a rancher. But if she has any hope of selling the ranch she inherited from her grandfather and continuing on to her new life in California, she needs to restore it to some semblance of order. If only the man her grandfather advised her to trust wasn’t refusing to help her.

When an offer of courtship arises from the current foreman, Eliza sees the practicality in the offer. So why does her heart keep wandering back to Caleb? And why can’t she shake the feeling that something’s not right at the Double E Ranch? Will she have the courage to follow the clues behind the strange mishaps at the Double E—and possibly embrace a different life than she imagined?

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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 NovelAcademy.

More from Barbara

Though Elizabeth Rose Roberts, the matriarch of the Double E Ranch, has passed before the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series begins, each story reflects the legacy she left for the generations to come. May the journey of these four descendants be an encouragement to your heart as you follow the struggles, love, and joy of Elizabeth’s family through the years.

In Angel from the East, Nellie loves baking pies and had a special request from one of the little Billings girls.

“I love pie! I hope it’s pum-kin tomorrow!” Virginia shouted.

Hopefully, Nellie had prior experience making a pumpkin pie or possessed a later recipe with detailed instructions, as this early recipe from an 1876 cookbook might not have helped much:

Peel and cut your pumpkin into small pieces and put into a kettle with a very little water; cook from six to eight hours, stirring frequently to prevent burning. When done, rub through a colander. One quart of pumpkin, five pints of rich milk, four eggs, three cups of sugar, one scant teaspoon of ginger and 4 tsp of cinnamon.

I hope you enjoy the stories—and perhaps a piece of pumpkin pie to go with them!

Blessings!

Barbara

My Impressions

“But yet, God offered hope. Forgiveness. For charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”

Inheriting a ranch from her grandfather, young Eliza Roberts leaves NYC for the untamed land of Idaho at the turn of the 20th century. Surprised at the run-down condition of the place Grandfather has spoken so glowingly about, Eliza decides to discover what changed the ranch’s fortune so quickly, before she heads on to California for a teaching job.

Eliza is pleased to find out that her grandparents were well-loved and respected members of the Caldwell, ID community. Their faith was evidenced to all by their actions. As Eliza hears stories of her grandmother’s great kindness and generosity, can she resemble her grandmother in more than just looks?

What secrets is the town so carefully hiding about the ranch’s history and former foreman? With two men obviously vying for her attention, which one, if either, is worthy of trust? Both Benton and Caleb greatly distrust the other, and the peace that Eliza brings with her is wearing thin. Can she trust God and the right people to help her find her heart’s desire?

I loved the gradual unveiling of the personalities of the different characters. Like peeling an onion, it has to be done slowly. We gradually see who Eliza decides to be, trusting God for wisdom. And these words were so timely for my life, yet today! “Remember, God cares for you so much. He’ll provide for your every need. Just ask Him.”

I’d love to have been a fly on the hitching post in this town! The gossip I might have been privy to, the people I might have seen and understood better by observing more closely (as in Gus, for one! Nellie had my attenae up, also! ) But it is the Rev. Thompson who doles out great advice: “And when you hear God’s words in a whisper, listen hard. And follow them. He’s the one who changes hearts.”

I also enjoyed the inclusion of Mrs. Billings and her three young, exuberant daughters! They light up the novel and lives wherever they appear!

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

Notable Quotables:

“Love isn’t easy, but it’s worth pursuing.” -Rev. Thompson

“The old fight had waged in his heart—vengeance versus forgiveness. Every time he’d felt God’s spirit drawing him toobedience, the flesh put up a fight anew.”

“We’re safe in God’s hands alone.”– Nellie

“Trust and position are two different things.”– Gus

“That’s her legacy to you. To remember God’s goodness and faithfulness. You are so much like her.” – Gus

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent! I already have pre-ordered the second book, As Far as the West, the next book in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series!

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, June 28

Devoted To Hope, June 29

Vicky Sluiter, June 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 2

Pause for Tales, July 2

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, July 3

Book Looks by Lisa, July 3

Simple Harvest Reads, July 4 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 5

For Him and My Family, July 6

Cover Lover Book Review, July 7

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, July 8

Texas Book-aholic, July 9

Stories By Gina, July 10 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, July 10

Holly’s Book Corner, July 11

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.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54250

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

Secrets of the Revolution by Megan Soja Review and Giveaway

July 3, 2025July 3, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Secrets of the Revolution

Author: Megan Soja

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: June 10, 2025

The cause of liberty brought them together. Will it also tear them apart?

Hannah Pierce is determined to keep her father‘s apothecary shop running, despite his failing health, the heavy burden of her mother’s recent death, and the mysterious disappearance of her brother. She’ll do whatever it takes to preserve her family’s legacy, including joining a dangerous ring of patriot spies…and falling for a revolutionary printer with a brave heart.

William Abbott always keeps his promises. He vowed long ago to never abandon those in need like his father did. So when new British acts of Parliament threaten Boston and endanger his family, he throws himself into serving the Patriot cause, using his position at the printing office to gather and spread intelligence. But when his clandestine role in the newly formed spy ring causes him to cross paths with the apothecary’s beautiful daughter, he may find himself fighting for more than the cause.

As tensions in Boston reach a breaking point, Will and Hannah find their bond deepening even as the noose tightens around the spy ring. When promises and determination are not enough to protect the ones they love, they’ll need to trust God if they are to survive what is to come.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Megan Soja is a multi-award-winning author who writes stories with strong faith, rich history, and sweet romance. She lives in western NY with her husband and two daughters and loves having adventures, both big and small, with her family. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, and playing French Horn.

More from Megan

In Secrets of the Revolution, my hero and heroine, Will and Hannah, are both drawn into participating in a Patriot spy ring in Boston. As I was planning their story, I drew inspiration from a group of famous real-life spies that operated in New York City during the American Revolution – the Culper Ring.

The Culper Ring was established in 1778 and successfully ran for five years without a single spy being discovered. Even today, we do not know the identity of all the members. They used a variety of methods to communicate, including ciphers, codes, and invisible ink, all of which served as inspiration for details in my story. I even used some of the numerical codes from the actual Culper Code Book to encrypt a letter that Will receives.

While researching the Culper Ring, I came across an especially interesting woman – Anna Smith Strong – and I knew she would be the perfect model for the part that Hannah plays in Secrets of the Revolution.

Anna’s role in the spy ring was to relay signals when information had been left at a specific location. Her family farm on Seaton’s Neck in Long Island provided prime location for her work, and she communicated through a brilliantly simple manner that went undetected throughout its operation. When a message was ready to be picked up amongst the coves of Long Island, Anna would hang a black petticoat on her clothesline, followed by a number of white handkerchiefs to indicate which location to use. Her clothing signal was easily spotted by fellow spy Caleb Brewster, who would periodically row out into the Sound, or Abraham Woodhull, whose nearby farm provided a clear view. The Culper Ring accomplished more than any other spy network during the war, thanks in part to Anna’s work.

As you discover Hannah’s role in Secrets of the Revolution, I hope that knowing Anna’s real history makes my story come to life all the more!

My Impressions

“That protest had been the spark, and it seemed each day, the flames grew stronger. How much would this fire of independence consume?”

I love a good historical fiction novel about the Revolutionary War period, and Megan Soja’s Secrets of the Revolution does not disappoint! Despite it being book two of the series, Harbor of Spies, Secrets stands alone well, while still leaving me with a desire to go back and discover the delights of book one.

Hannah Pierce is a young woman who is the sole support for her ailing apothecary father. With her oldest brother in England, unable to return, her mother’s death, and one brother who disappeared trying to reach the older, emotions are fragile in the Pierce home. Hannah’s father has been a wonderful, godly father, but his mind is becoming unsteady as it struggles to deal with the multiple losses. Hannah must care for the home, her father, fix any mistakes her father makes in medicine preparation and hide her father’s increasing mental lapses from the public. What a strong person Hannah is, and she is stronger as she remembers that God cares for the spaarows, and He will care for her. Wish: As more books are beginning to deal with dementia, and this can be a trigger, I wish these books would offer a trigger warning on their back cover description.

I love how Hannah and Will meet. Will works for a printer that supports the colonists’ cry for representation in England. Will is a man who is determined to take care of his stepmother, Mary, and step-sister, Libby. Before much time has passed, he has discerned a like-minded heart in Hannah and begins to fall for her a little more with each interaction. They encourage each other. “Thankfully, we serve a patient God whose grace is steadfast, even when we wrestle with the same doubts and mistakes time and again.”

Will promises to protect those he loves, and that circle quickly grows to include Hannah. But with the Redcoats first blockading the harbor, then arriving in Boston by the thousands, can he keep that promise?

Will has resented his father for years, for decisions his father made repeatedly, not putting his family first. But will Will do the same, as his desire to help the Patriot cause could prohibit his promises to Mary, Libby, and Hannah? My takeaway from this thread is that our perception of our earthly fathers can easily color our perception of our Heavenly Father.

Soja includes Will’s blended family as secondary characters and I believe we’ll see a few of them in book three, as well as some more of Hannah’s family. With some great twists, historical facts, smooth writing, relatable problems, and a cautious romance, plus truth nuggets, I highly recommend Secrets of the Revolution.

This isn’t a cliff-hanger, but, certain situations are definitely ripe! Bring on the Revolution! I need more!

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

Notable Quotables:

“It was not a failure to close one chapter of her life and begin another. Sometimes the wisest decision was to walk away.”

“I refuse to allow my fear to keep you from doing what is right.” – Hannah

“God, You know the worries I wrestle with, the fears that keep trying to take root. Please pull them out. Keep them from growing in my heart and mind.”-Hannah

“Perhaps it is the times of weakness and lack that help us see our need for Him even more. When we cannot rely on ourselves, we must depend wholly on Him.”