Noble By Mesu Andrews

Noble

by Mesu Andrews

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: King David's Wives

ISBN: 978-0764242625

Mesu Andrews is such a powerful story teller and brings her characters to life in an incredible way! I was on her launch team for Noble and her publisher sent me her book for review.

Summary:

Princess Maakah of Geshur is duty-bound to create a political alliance for her father through marriage. The cancellation by King Saul of her betrothal to his fourth-born son compels Maakah's father to send her to the rebel David ben Jesse, a shepherd-warrior anointed years earlier as Israel's future king, to propose a marriage between them. Taken aback by stories of David's ferocity and lowly birth, Maakah considers the match a degrading fate but obeys her father's wishes out of duty as her nation's only heir. 

To her relief, David rejects the offer of marriage, but circumstances make it impossible for Maakah to return home, and she must stay with David's people until it is safe for her to travel again. Facing prejudice and suspicion from the Israelites, Maakah navigates the delicate balance between her noble heritage and her growing respect for David's faith and leadership. In a land torn by war and divided loyalties, she must choose where her allegiance lies: with her Geshurite people, or with an extraordinary destiny alongside David that beckons her from within.

My Review:

Going back to Biblical times in a fictional setting is always a favorite escape!

First, the amount of research the author must've done for Noble blows my mind. Reading Noble has caused me to go back to Scripture time and time again. Writing a story about such an important man in the Bible is a hefty call! Writing about numerous wives isn't one I'd want to take on.

While the story was a bit "slow" in the beginning (we're getting to know Maakah and her awful maid Zulat) and how (or if) she'll fit into this family, but the pace picks up halfway through and drew me in. It was easy to see how David might find her appealing while frustrating at the same time. lol Maakah definitely challenged him. Her parents left a LOT to be desired and so did her maid.

I'll admit that it's hard to read a fictional account where no one around David warns him away from another marriage or reminds him of God's commands. Considering he married numerous wives, I would imagine it was encouraged more than discouraged. He never asks the priest to cast lots on this matter, but does so for other reasons.

I still loved Nomy in this book as much as I did the first one. Abigail is just as sweet the first time. I don't care what century we're in, multiple wives just makes me cringe. I would NOT have done well in those times so I can see how it can be a struggle in so many ways for each of the wives.

Maakah was an interesting characters. She's young and while trained up to be a princess, she's still rather immature. It comes out in a variety of ways, but Abigail and Nomy truly seem to care for her almost immediately. While I could see her coming under the wings of both of David's wives, it was hard to see her as another wife.

Of course, we have to keep in mind that this is fiction. We have no way of knowing exactly what transpired, what David's motivations were, discussions that were had, etc. This is an author's fictional account of a real time in history! I found a lot of quotable moments in the story that really stuck with and spoke to my heart.

About the Author:

Mesu Andrews is a Christy Award-winning, bestselling author of biblical novels and devotional studies, whose deep understanding of and love for God's Word brings the Bible alive for readers. Her heritage as a "spiritual mutt" has given her a strong yearning to both understand and communicate biblical truths in powerful stories that touch the heart, challenge the mind, and transform lives. Mesu lives in Indiana with her husband, Roy, where she stays connected with her readers through newsy emails, blog posts, and social media. Visit her at MesuAndrews.com.

A Lesson In Propriety By Jen Turano

A Lesson in Propriety

by Jen Turano

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies

ISBN: 9780764243851

If you've been here for any length of time, you know that I adore Jen Turano! Her characters always crack me up, and the situations they get me in keep me hostage to the story! I was on her launch team for her new release A Lesson in Propriety, which was sent to me for review.

Summary:

LESSON ONE: Stand in the way of the Windy City's criminal world and expect a most improper proposal from an eligible gentleman in return. 

With her father dead, her fortune stolen, and her fiancé casting her aside, Miss Drusilla Merriweather's privileged life has been upended. She is left with only one option: to provide for her family by opening a finishing school in the allegedly haunted castle she's inherited from her eccentric aunt. However, her plan is immediately threatened by unscrupulous developers keen on claiming the coveted estate for themselves by any means necessary. 

Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences--walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors--arise within the castle's grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family's safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart. 

Laugh-out-loud witty banter, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age string together this entrancing series starter. Fans of clean romance, Christian fiction, and strong female characters will enjoy this read.

My Review:

One always knows what to expect from a Jen Turano book. There will be hijinks and hilarity. That happened in spades with A Lesson in Propriety. 

Drusilla is cast aside by her fiancé after he learns her fortune disappeared when her father's solicitor absconds with their fortune after her father passes away! The interaction between Druscilla and Elbert is amusing, but has us feeling for poor (literally) Drusilla. 

The Merriweather ladies venture off to a property that was left to them in order to find a way to support themselves. The only issue is, it's apparently haunted! Their first encounter with the castle leaves much to be desired and quite a bit of confusion for everyone involved. There may have also been an inadvertent wedding proposal at the end of said encounter!

You can imagine that there's a lot of craziness and cute moments throughout the story. Drusilla tries to uncover the secrets of the castle while trying to create a finishing school for young ladies in the area. Someone tries to thwart them and scare them at every turn, but Drusilla as well as the other ladies, aren't having it! 

Rhenick tries to do his best in regards to the Merriweather ladies, but he keeps running into issues along the way. The biggest of which is they believe he's after the castle! Growing up around a bevy of ladies in his family, he tends to do well with all of the women he encounters. Unfortunately, the first time he meets Drusilla they don't part on the best of terms.

This story was overall amusing pretty much the entire time. Sometimes, I'll admit, it was a bit more than I cared for. There was a lot of explaining of the situations the characters were in, and I would've preferred to have more of the story. Overall though, I enjoyed the characters and story.

About the Author:

Named one of the funniest voices in inspirational romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today bestselling author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publishers Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She's been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers' Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. She and her family live outside of Ormond Beach, Florida. Readers can find her on Facebook and Instagram, and at JenTurano.com.

Lady Maybe By Julie Klassen

Lady Maybe

by Julie Klassen

Publisher: Bethany House

ISBN: 9780764245282

Being an avid Julie Klassen fan, and having read all of her stories, I was excited that she revised Lady Maybe and published through Bethany House! She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

One final cry of terror, and suddenly her world shifted violently, until a blinding collision scattered her mind and shook her bones. Then, the pain. The freezing water. And as all sensation drifted away, a hand reached for hers before all faded into darkness. . . . 

In the midst of a fierce storm, a carriage carrying Sir John Mayfield, Lady Marianna Mayfield, and her lady's companion careens off a narrow cliff road, changing their fates forever. When the wreckage is found, Sir John is gravely injured, and a woman is discovered unconscious wearing a valuable ring. As the woman regains consciousness in a strange house, she grapples with fragmented memories of the accident, unsettling dreams of a child in peril, and a deep mystery tied to the ring on her finger. Surrounded by unfamiliar faces and haunted by a sense of foreboding, the survivor realizes she cannot trust anyone and must uncover the truth of what happened that stormy night, even as danger mounts and enemies conspire against her. 

In this revised and updated 10th anniversary edition of Julie Klassen's acclaimed novel, a woman's startling secrets lead her into unexpected danger and romance in Regency England.

My Review:

In true Julie Klassen style, she had me riveted to Lady Maybe from page one! Trying to give a review for a book that is built upon secrets and amnesia is a little difficult. Because of that, proceed with caution in regards to my review. 

At the beginning of the story Lady Mayfield is being taken to an undisclosed location by her husband Sir John Mayfield. At the last moment, Lady Marianna's previous companion, Hannah, joins them, much to Sir John's dismay. On the way to their new home an accident causes one woman to be washed away and the other left with amnesia. 

It doesn't take long for the reader to find out which woman survived. Hannah doesn't realize who she is because she has amnesia. With everyone referring to her as Lady Mayfield, she just goes along with it. Since Sir John is unconscious, he can't confirm or deny her identity. Along comes Sir John's solicitor and adds another layer to the mix with a bit of attraction to Hannah. 

Since it's well-known the kind of woman Lady Mayfield is, not very committed to her husband, Hannah is in a bit of a quandary. While she's kind and caring, Lady Mayfield is not. As Hannah begins to remember who she is, she realizes how deep she is into her lie. Unfortunately, there's a lot at stake with her sticking to the lie... at least until she can escape.

Listen, there are twists and turns throughout the story. Romance ensues, but how can she keep up the charade when Sir John regains consciousness? The household clearly loves Hannah... at least most of them. The story of Sir John's past with his unfaithful wife unfolds more and more as we read! We also learn more of Hannah's part in the story while she's employed by them.

Sadly, infidelity shows its true colors throughout. You see time and time again of how damaging it can be and what the consequences are. While God can bring good from the bad, it's clear as Hannah's charade unravels how truly devastating it can be.

As others have said, it gives Jane Eyre vibes, and that's one of my favorite classics! It's full on Regency and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm thankful that this was revised to leave out some of the sensual stuff in the original, which I never read. This was definitely more my speed.

About the Author:

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane--Jane Eyreand Jane Austen. Her books have sold over 1.5 million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing's Best Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for 16 years and now writes full-time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota. For more information, visit JulieKlassen.com.

Every Hour Until Then By Gabrielle Meyer

Every Hour Until Then

by Gabrielle Meyer

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

Series: Timeless

ISBN: 9780764243011

Having fallen in love with this series with book one, the anticipation for the next story grows the moment I finish the current one! For me, it's impossible to get enough of the Timeless series. The author & publisher sent me the book for being on the launch team to review it.

Summary:

Gifted with the ability to time-cross between Victorian-era London and World War II Washington, DC, Kathryn faces two lives fraught with danger. In 1938 amid the looming shadow of war, Kathryn is invited to the London Museum as a guest curator to create a groundbreaking exhibit on Jack the Ripper and his reign of terror. As she delves into her grim research, she uncovers a chilling truth: Her own sister is destined to become the Ripper's final victim decades earlier. 

In 1888, in a race against fate, Kathryn is assisted by her handsome childhood friend in hunting down history's most elusive killer. As they unravel the threads of mystery woven through time, Kathryn must decide if she'll unmask the murderer history has chosen to hide, forfeiting a life with the man she loves to save her sister.

My Review:

I'll start by saying words won't adequately describe all of my thoughts and feelings after reading this Every Hour Until Then! The best thing I can say to you is that if you don't run out and read this book immediately, you're doing yourself a disfavor. 

How Gabrielle Meyer continues to create such incredible stories that whisk me away to another time (two times in this case) is beyond me! I was immediately drawn into the story and had a hard time tearing myself away. And what do you do when you love the main character in BOTH timelines? Not only is it their dilemma, but it becomes ours, too!

First is Kathryn in 1888! We meet her at a pivotal moment in her life. It takes a turn and nothing will be the same. Looking for answers only uncovers more questions. Not only are there more questions, there's danger at a level she never could've imagined. Thankfully, she has her childhood friend, Austen, by her side! Let me tell you though, her parents in this timeline made me want to pull my hair out. lol

Kathryn in 1938 learns that while she's helping curate an exhibit featuring Jack the Ripper, Kathryn in 1888 is going to have to try saving her little sister from his clutches! I loved being back with Grace & Luc from book 4 in the series! I'm always so thankful when at least one timeline has a loving & understanding time traveling parent!

How Kathryn goes about trying to unravel what's going to happen to her sister, how and if she can stop it, all the while knowing doing so will cause her to lose the timeline she's becoming more fond of just had me reeling! "Watching" her try to go back and forth to put all of the pieces together had me flipping the pages as fast as I could.

For me, nothing was predictable. I had no idea how the puzzle was going to come together and what would be revealed! The way the author brought it all together was masterful! Keeping track of everything going on and making it all cohesive is an absolute gift! I can't tell you how many times I almost cried throughout the story! Listen, I was invested... in both timelines! 

The romance... y'all get me a fan! It was wonderful and worth the wait. It was sweet and tender. Journeying through it with them was precious, but also, waiting for the heartache to come was difficult. If you want a story to make you believe in love, this one will get you where it counts!

The topics in this book were ones I honestly knew nothing about, but made me want to learn more and do research about them. I wanted to wait until after the story finished so I didn't accidentally learn something I shouldn't before I finished! Jack the Ripper and Freemasons are people I've heard about, but never really took the time to learn more. After this story, my interest is piqued!

Last, but most important, was the faith element in this story. I can see myself so much in Kathryn. She had made a decision early on without any thought to what the Lord wanted. If everything went as planned, that meant she didn't need to ask the Lord, right? I appreciated how her 1938 parents poured the spiritual aspect into her life!

About the Author:

Gabrielle Meyer is a Christy Award-winner and ECPA bestselling author. She has worked for state and local historical societies and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides along the banks of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota with her husband and four children. By day, she's a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and nonfiction filled with hope. Find her online at GabrielleMeyer.com.

The Voice We Find By Nicole Deese

The Voice We Find

by Nicole Deese

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: A Fog Harbor Romance

ISBN: 9780764241208

I'm a fan of everything Nicole Deese writes! Her stories are deep, powerful, and poignant. This series has brought out a lot of emotion for me as a reader. Who doesn't love when an author can do that? The author and publisher sent me the book for review.

Summary:

Two voices. One story. A chance to rewrite their future. 

Sophie Wilder returns home to California with nothing more than a failed Broadway career and a geriatric cat. Stuck working at the family winery with her egotistical brother and desperate for a way to revive her acting dreams, she takes a side gig as an audiobook narrator with Fog Harbor Books. But getting mixed up in the life of her reluctant sound engineer was never a part of her plans. 

August Tate is still reeling from taking on guardianship of his teen sister. Determined to find a solution to her degenerative hearing loss and to prevent his private recording studio from going under, he agrees to produce audiobooks part-time. When Sophie breathes new life into his creativity and forms an unexpected bond with his sister rooted in their common faith, he must confront the reasons he turned away from his own or risk losing the second chance he's only just started to believe in.

My Review:

I'll start off by saying that The Voice We Find is an emotional rollercoaster ride! We meet Sophie as she's heading back to her family home in defeat after a mishap on a Broadway stage. Her defeat and discouragement are palpable. When she arrives "home", which is also part of the family's winery property, we get a glimpse at how unhealthy that situation is. There's also something suspicious going on with how Sophie reacts to being there.

Then, there's August, who owns a music production studio. He has guardianship of his adopted little sister, Gabby, who play a great role in the story. His best friend, Chip, convinces him to produce audiobooks for his publishing house. What a great way for Sophie and August to meet.

Sophie and August have time to get to know each other while Gabby is at camp, and when she comes home, she and Sophie hit it off. Gabby and August lost their parents in a tragedy and they both are handling their grief differently. Gabby is leaning into her faith and August has closed himself off. One of the facets to the accident that they disagree about is Gabby's hearing loss. Gabby wants to make the most of it, but August has other ideas. 

The time Sophie and August spend together creating an audiobook helps draw them together. It's a very sweet progression and it certainly gave me heart eyes! Again, as August keeps himself closed off from his faith, Sophie is drawn to it thanks to Gabby and Portia, the owner of a rundown theater & ASL interpreter.

It was so beautiful watching God work throughout this story. You can feel Him drawing Sophie and August to Himself. He gave them numerous opportunities to hear Truth. It was a good reminder that we don't all respond the same way to the Gospel. While August pushed back against it, he also had to work through guilt he was carrying. It was just a reminder of how patient the Lord is with each one of us.

There was also a mystery lying under the surface of the winery. Not only was Sophie's family a piece of work, there was something nefarious going on. It was easy to get that ick feeling right along with Sophie feeling it. I was glad she spent more time away than there. 

Each of the stories in this series are very different. They each stand on their own and are incredibly powerful. I will say the first one made me cry and the last one brought tears to my eyes. This one had me wanting to throw hands when it came to Sophie's father & brother. Her mother I just wanted to shake. I'm telling you, lost of emotions.

About the Author:

Nicole Deese is a Christy and Carol Award-winning and bestselling author. When she's not sorting out character arcs and story plots of her own, she can usually be found listening to an audiobook and multitasking at least four different chores at once. She's a hoarder of sparkling water, a lover of long walks and even longer talks with friends, and a seeker of fun and adventure at all times. She lives in small-town Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two freakishly tall teenage sons, and one princess daughter with the heart of a warrior. For more, visit NicoleDeese.com.

Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse By JAIME JO WRIGHT

Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse

by Jaime Jo Wright

Publisher: Bethany House Publisher

ISBN: 9780764243790

When a new book comes out by the author I will devour it and it was no different this time. Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse was different from her previous books, but thoughtful and made me introspective! The publisher sent me the book for review.

Summary:

Where the lighthouse no longer illuminates, ghostly lore and legends emerge . . . 

1874
A battered woman awakens atop a forgotten gravesite by Lake Superior's southern shore. Identified only by the locket around her neck inscribed with the name Rebecca, she seeks refuge with an elderly lighthouse keeper. But as Rebecca struggles to remember who she is, she finds herself haunted by the lingering memories of Annabel, a mysterious woman who perished in the lake's unforgiving waves years earlier. With the spirit of Annabel seemingly reawakened, and an unknown adversary on the hunt to silence Rebecca once and for all, more is at stake than reclaiming her own memories. Rebecca must reclaim Annabel's as well. 

Present Day
Author and researcher Shea Radclyffe escapes to the lighthouse outside a historic Michigan mining town to seek clarity about her failing marriage. Instantly drawn to the lighthouse's landlord, Shea contends with the legend of Annabel's vengeful ghost and a superstitious community that has buried the truth about a current murder. As the secrets harbored around Annabel's lighthouse unravel, Shea must navigate a fight between torn loyalty, self-discovery, and the haunting forces of love.

. . . demanding vengeance for secrets that should have drowned a century before.

My Review:

Once again, JJW takes us on a journey and we have no idea where she's leading us to! The thing you know with her stories is that there's always "something." She's going to creep us out, but along the ways, she's going to teach us a valuable lesson. I thought she did that in such a great way with this story! I felt like Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse was told differently than all of her other ones. It had a different feel to me, and I enjoyed it just like I have all of her others!

First we meet Rebecca, who is running for her life in the late 1800s. She's found by Edgar and taken back to Annabel's lighthouse. Unfortunately, she doesn't remember anyone or anything. What she does know is fear and mistrust. We also get to know Abel and Niina at the lighthouse. They all share a secret, but getting it out of them wasn't easy, nor was it quick. All we know is men are after Rebecca, and her time at the lighthouse brings us to the story of why! Be ready for your heart to be broken for her and all she has gone through and goes through!

Then we meet Shea. Shea is fed up with her humdrum life with husband Pete. Boring, not-so-exciting Pete. She's heading to the lighthouse to learn more about Annabel and the mystery surrounding her. Her time there makes her wistful of what life could look like and she walks a precarious line. Then, her research of Annabel puts her life in danger because, apparently, Annabel isn't a fan of people looking into the past and snooping around her lighthouse.

This was a story that stopped me in my tracks. It made me introspective of not only my views on how I view my life, but my marriage as well. JJW wasn't playing around when she wrote that storyline. She gives a one, two punch to readers who are married so all I can say is, "Brace yourself."

The faith in these stories always hit home for me. I appreciate how she weaves it into the story and causes us to think more deeply with our own walk in faith.

About the Author:

Jaime Jo Wright is a three-time Christy Award finalist and the author of thirteen novels, including Christy Award-winner and ECPA bestseller The Vanishing at Castle Moreau,Christy Award and Daphne du Maurier Award-winner The House on Foster Hill, and Carol Award-winner The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond. Jaime has also written two Publishers Weekly bestselling novellas. She lives in Wisconsin with her family and fabulous felines. Learn more at JaimeWrightBooks.com.

Kate Landry Has a Plan By Rebekah Millet + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Kate Landry Has a Plan by Rebekah Millet hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! Book one in this series was excellent! I can't wait to read this one. Thanks to JustRead for sending me the book for the takeover! Be sure to read the Book Excerpt below!

About the Book

Title: Kate Landry Has a Plan 

Series: Beignets for Two #2 

Author: Rebekah Millet 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: March 18, 2025 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance 

Forty-year-old Kate Landry's carefully planned life has become as messy as the powdered sugar on her famous beignets. Juggling the responsibilities of running her café, raising her teenage niece, and the emotional baggage from her breakup, Kate finds her world once again turned upside down when her first-ever crush, Micah Guidry, returns to town as the hunky local librarian. 

As Kate struggles to implement her plans to expand her café amid the New Orleans Mardi Gras madness and the meddling of her conniving ex-fiancé, Micah becomes the unwitting hero of her misadventures, stirring up feelings she thought she'd long buried. How can falling in love in the Big Easy be this hard?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Baker Publishing Group | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

More Books from this Series:

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Book Excerpt

Excerpt 3

pp 16-17

“If you let me get a dog, I’d have protection.”

Here we go again. Hayley had begun an aggressive campaign for a dog several months ago. I didn’t have time for a dog, or even a fish. And as much as she’d said she’d take care of it, I—­like all the parents that had gone before me—­knew her promise would end up broken. “You can’t bring a dog into the library.”

Her slender fingers tapped across her phone screen at warp speed. Steel-­gray polish coated her nails. Sigh. No more pink sparkles. I knew what was coming next as she’d become predictable in her quest for a dog. She was connecting via Bluetooth to my vehicle’s speakers.

Within seconds, Sarah McLachlan’s “Angel” filled the sedan. In researching pet adoption, Hayley had

discovered the ads from the ’90s, including the song from the old heart-­wrenching ASPCA animal cruelty

commercials.

When her desire for a pet had first surfaced, we’d had a detailed discussion of why we couldn’t have one. And by discussion, I meant her staring daggers at the wall while I listed a multitude of reasons. As a result, she’d begun pulling away from me. Our conversations had dwindled to one- or two-­word responses on her end and then her holing up in her room. At that time, she’d also initiated psychological warfare. Other than the “Angel” song, she’d leave the TV in the living room paused on commercials showcasing emaciated canines of every variety.

I’d read in a parenting book to ignore this type of behavior. And so that’s what I’d done. Ignored the commercials and gritted my teeth through each beautiful note of Sarah McLachlan’s now irritating voice.

© 2025 by Rebekah Millet

Published by Bethany House Publishers

About the Author

Rebekah Millet is a double Selah Award, Cascade Award, and ACFW First Impressions Award-winning author of contemporary Christian romance novels. A New Orleans native, she grew up on beignets and café au lait, and loves infusing her colorful culture into her stories. Her husband is an answer to prayer, who puts up with her rearranging furniture and being a serial plant killer. Her two sons keep her laughing and share in her love of desserts.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Julia Monroe Begins Again, Kate Landry Has a Plan, and a $20 Cafe du Monde gift certificate!

 

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 26, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on April 2, 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

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

Green Pastures By Patricia Johns + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Green Pastures by Patricia Johns, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! Isn't the cover of this book idyllic? Be sure to check out the book excerpt below!

About the Book

Title: Green Pastures
Series: The Amish of Shepherd's Hill #1
Author: Patricia Johns
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Release Date: March 18, 2025
Genre: Amish Romance

Tabitha Schrock's return to Lancaster County shakes the foundations of her family and community. After her departure during rumspringa and a recent divorce, Tabitha faces the challenge of reintegrating into Amish society while pursuing her dream of working as a veterinarian. Meanwhile, her sister Amanda, whose own prospects were dimmed by Tabitha's leaving Shepherd's Hill, decides to seize her chance at love by pursuing a man with a shadowed past. And their youngest sister, Rose, despite her beauty and romantic hopes, faces the harsh realities of matrimony, grappling with the weight of vows made before Gott and her community. 

As the sisters navigate the intricacies of love, faith, and tradition, they are bound by their commitment to uphold their Amish way of life. But as they strive to keep their promises, how much are they willing to sacrifice to remain true to themselves and their community?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Baker Publishing Group | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

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Book Excerpt

Tabitha had left the Amish life to marry an Englischer. Everyone had warned her against him, and when

she married him, the women in Shepherd’s Hill had whispered that she might not have done it if her

mother were still alive to give her some much- needed advice, mother to daughter. Then Michael had lost

interest in her, Tabitha had told them later, and she didn’t understand why he was away from home so

much. Until her friend told her that she’d seen Michael out at a restaurant holding another woman’s hand.

And when Tabitha confronted him, he admitted it all and said he wouldn’t give the other woman up. It

was shocking. Horrifying. What could a woman do if her husband simply ran around on her? What

choices were left? Amanda couldn’t blame Tabitha for refusing to live with it, and when she divorced

him, Michael married the other woman. Insult ladled on top of injury. That was what came of marrying

the wrong man. Or, if you listened to the people in this community, that was what came of jumping the

fence and marrying an Englischer. And Amanda had to agree— if Mamm hadn’t died, everything might

have been different.

About the Author

Patricia Johns is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than 50 books. She writes Amish fiction with tight communities, outspoken heroines, and the handsome, rugged men who fall in love with them. She lives in Alberta, Canada, with her husband and son.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a print copy of Green Pastures!

(1) additional winner will receive a print copy of Green Pastures!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 18, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 25, 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

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

The Nature Of Love By Toni Shiloh

the Nature of Love

by Toni Shiloh

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Love in the Spotlight

ISBN: 9780764241529

I have been a huge fan of Toni's books, so when the third book in the series was coming out, I couldn't wait to read it. Thankfully, I was on the launch team. The author & publisher sent me the book for review.

Summary:

A doctor feeling fractured 

Dr. Erykah Kennedy, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, finds herself at a crossroads in life. At forty-one, she's achieved remarkable success in her career, yet when it comes to her love life, she feels hopeless. But when she meets Christian Gamble, a passionate wildlife conservationist, an unexpected bond forms between them despite their contrasting worlds. 

A wildlife enthusiast ready for more 

Chris has yet to find someone to share his adventures with, but as his friendship with Erykah starts to blossom, he begins falling for her in every way. When tragedy strikes and Erykah suddenly becomes guardian to her nieces, Chris helps her pick up the pieces.

Two hearts destined by nature 

With their lives turned upside down, finding their way to a lasting love while putting their faith in God may be the biggest challenge they've ever faced.

My Review:

Whew, y'all, Toni wasn't messing around in The Nature of Love!!!! She was bold in Erykah's faith journey and the prayer... gimme some church clap! 

Erykah is a gifted surgeon whom we meet in A Run at Love, which was book two in the series. She's also deeply introverted, so she hasn't made friends at work. TBH, she doesn't have any outside of work either.

We've got a sweet meet cute when Chris, a wildlife conservationist, walks into the sandwich shop Erykah is at, and then they meet again shortly thereafter! Charlie, the rescue pup, is what initially ties their lives together, but tragedy solidifies it.

So so so SO many things to love about TNoL! We get to hang out with Lamont, Nevaeh, Tuck, and Piper again. Their relationships show us a wonderful example of how the body of Christ is meant to work.

Chris isn't ashamed of his faith and boldly prays throughout the story. Piper shares Scripture with Erykah as Erykah tries to unravel this whole Christianity/salvation thing. Being a fly on the wall as she grows in understanding and watching the scales fall from her eyes had me cheering from the sidelines!

I don't know if it's the hormones of having a new grandbaby or what, but this story had me on the verge of tears for a good bit, so have tissue ready. I kept reminding myself I didn't need to cry because it's fiction.

Let me say this loud enough for the people in the back...

Go get this book NOW!

Thank you to the author & publisher for sending me the book for review. This is my personal opinion.

About the Author:

Toni Shiloh is a wife, a mom, and an award-winning Christian contemporary romance author. Her novel In Search of a Prince won the first ever Christy Amplify Award. It has also been praised by Oprah Daily, POPSUGAR, Library Journal, and Booklist, and is a Parable bestseller. A Run at Love was included in Booklist's Top 10 Romance Fiction of 2024. Her books have won the Selah Award and have been finalists for the Carol Award and the HOLT Medallion. As a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Toni loves connecting with readers and authors alike via social media. Learn more at ToniShiloh.com.

Before The King By Heather Kaufman

Before the King

by Heather Kaufman

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Women of the Way

ISBN: 9781540903570

I was SO thrilled to have been given the chance to be on Heather Kaufman's launch team for Before the King! This is the second book in her Women of the Way series and the cover immediately drew me in! Thanks to the author and publisher for the copy of my book.

Summary:

Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family harbors a dark secret. Entangled in the complexities of aristocratic life and an impending arranged marriage, Joanna is caught between her own desires and maintaining appearances. When tragedy strikes, Joanna grapples with a new future that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love.

Years later, Joanna is forever changed when a rabbi comes preaching a new kingdom and healing the sick. As she contributes to his ministry, Joanna treads a perilous path between a court that mocks Jesus of Nazareth, disciples who view her with suspicion, and a husband who guards his own secrets. With pressure increasing on all sides, Joanna must decide where her allegiances lie and protect her relationship to the Christ, whose message is as compelling as it is dangerous.

My Review:

What an incredibly powerful story! Where do I even begin to describe Before the King?

The beginning of the story had me in a jangle of nerves! Family dynamics can really be a struggle sometimes, but add a chronic illness and that adds a whole new layer of issues! I guess working your way up to Herod's court doesn't allow for anything but perfection. If you want to feel tension, you could've sliced it with a knife with Joanna's family.

All of the challenges that Joanna has to go through as she's growing up will break your heart, yet she tries to persevere. She's not made to live in the grandeur her father esteems himself to. She desperately just wants to be herself, and it plays out in the story. I loved the side character of Eden who is beside Joanna throughout the story!

As she gets older she prepares to marry, when tragedy strikes. Joanna doesn't have the heart to rise above the ashes, but circumstances force her to. I loved how the author shows God orchestrating Joanna meeting Chuza, a man who is already in Herod's court. He's also someone dealing with pain that he doesn't know what to do with other than keep people at a distance. The build up of romantic tension had me on pins and needles!

Yes, this is a work of fiction, but the author brings the New Testament time to life with the disciples, Jesus, Herod, and so many others. While nothing can improve on Scripture, this story gives us a glimpse into what their humanity might have looked like. I was especially moved by the scenes with Jesus! I was emotional when Joanna came face to face with Him. Trying to imagine what it must've been like to be in His presence, and I think the author captured it so beautifully.

I appreciated how well Scripture was used in the story and how she depicted several scenes, but adding a fictional piece to them. It was easy to visualize Jesus speaking to listeners or rebuking Pharisees or healing people. Seriously just so well done!

I can't wait for the next book in the series!

About the Author:

Heather Kaufman is the author of multiple books and devotions, praised by Kirkus Reviewsfor writing "a charming and well-crafted tale." She delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling. When not reading, writing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her husband and three children near their home in St. Louis, Missouri. Learn more at HMKStories.com.

Cloaked In Beauty By Karen Witemeyer

Cloaked in Beauty

by Karen Witemeyer

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Texas Ever After

ISBN: 9780764240430

You must know by now that I'm a long-time fan of Karen Witemeyer! Her stories are always filled with faith and characters you will come to love, just like I do. I was delighted to receive the third book in her Texas Ever After from the author & publisher for review!

Summary:

Trust no one in the shadows of the piney woods . . .

Letty Hood has spent the last fifteen years of her life hidden away with her grandmother in the backwoods of east Texas to escape the deadly schemes of an uncle who wants her dead. Now, with her twenty-first birthday on the horizon, she is forced to accept the escort of a stranger and return to Houston in secret so she can claim a birthright that will make her one of the wealthiest women in Texas. If she lives long enough to inherit.

Pinkerton agent Philip Carmichael has one duty: get the Radcliffe heiress home alive. Expecting a spoiled girl, Philip is surprised to encounter a woman of rare strength with a kind soul and keen wit. As they journey together, Letty's resilience wins his admiration, breaking through his hardened cynicism. Yet the threat to her survival grows more menacing with every mile, and Philip fears that keeping Letty out of harm's way may be just as impossible as keeping her out of his heart.

My Review:

Cloaked in Beauty was such a fun story! We meet Scarlett Radcliffe aka Letty Hood who has lived with her grandmother, hidden away from the man who wants her gone. Letty may very well have my favorite fictional animal! 

Then we meet Philip Carmichael, a Pinkerton tasked with finding her. He's an honorable man who wants to get Letty home in one piece and not fall for her in the process. You can't help but love Letty's grandmother and root for them to get back to Houston safely! All she needs to do is make it to get 21st birthday. Too bad that proves treacherous.

Most of the story revolves around Philip and Letty working their way back to Houston. Because they have to avoid towns and people, their trek isn't an easy one. They have no choice but to get to know each other. 

The story is infused with faith and hope! I love that Letty over and over puts her trust in the Lord. Philip turns to the Lord for strength throughout the story! You can feel the love growing, but they are intentional about not stoking that flame and making sure they put propriety front and center! What a breath of fresh air.

About the Author:

Voted #1 Reader's Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas. Learn more about Karen and her books at KarenWitemeyer.com.

The Seaside Homecoming By Julie Klassen

The Seaside Homecoming

by Julie Klassen

Published by Bethany House

Series: On Devonshire Shores

ISBN: 978-0764241017

I was grateful, once again, that Julie offered to send me her book for review! As a HUGE fan of her stories, I couldn't wait to read it! I'm sad to see the series coming to an end since I've enjoyed each visit to Sidmouth.

Summary:

A surprise homecoming tests the bonds of sisterhood as a hidden past comes to light . . .

Disgraced eldest sister Claire Summers has been living in exile as companion to a stern great-aunt in Scotland. About to lose her place and longing to be reconciled with her estranged family, Claire sees an advertisement from someone looking for a "respectable female partner" in a Sidmouth boarding house. Is it a sign? She answers the ad, hoping she has not made another reckless mistake. When she meets the handsome, secretive proprietor, she wonders what he's hiding and if he's any more trustworthy than the nobleman who betrayed her years ago. Claire is drawn to him even though she fears he will reject her when he discovers her genteel façade hides a less-than-respectable past.

Meanwhile, the Summers family learns their great-aunt has died and Claire has disappeared without a word. The sisters rally together to find their lost sibling, but will their unexpected reunion heal old wounds and rekindle their bonds . . . or deepen the divide?

Return to the captivating Devonshire coast as the Summers sisters navigate romance, second chances, and the enduring strength of sisterhood in the face of adversity.

My Review:

I absolutely LOVED The Seaside Homecoming! 100% did NOT want it to end.

We finally have the chance to meet Claire, the estranged sister/daughter of the Summers family. We also get a taste of crabby old Great Aunt Mercer. Having stayed as her companion for a couple of years, it was understandable that once Great Aunt Mercer passed, Claire would want to be near her family again.

I think I felt as tenuous as Claire did being back by her sisters and mother. I loved how the sisters were so loving to her, while her mother tried to hold on to the promise she made her husband before he passed. Just a stark reminder of the times.

It was fun getting to know Armaan in this story! I hadn't expected he'd get a bigger role, but was thrilled he did. I loved how the author wove his part in with Mr. Hammond's. It was so well done. It filled my heart to overflowing. Speaking of which, I enjoyed the mystery Mr. Hammond brought with him to Sidmouth! I also appreciated the slow burn that came along with him meeting Claire.

Of course, it was delightful to be back with the secondary characters at Sea View. I feel like the story wouldn't have been complete without them. And who can forget the wise and wonderful Mrs. Denby?

I appreciated the great reminder that no one is too far from God's mercy and grace. That we have all sinned and have a need for a Savior. There's also reconciliation and forgiveness shown through the characters of the story!

This is a series not to be missed! I'm eagerly waiting next December when we'll get Sarah's story! I've been waiting for it since book one. I would highly recommend reading the books in order so everything makes sense.

About the Author:

Across The Ages By Gabrielle Meyer

Across the Ages

by Gabrielle Meyer

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Timeless

ISBN: 9780764244209

This is seriously one of my top 5 favorite series! Timeless has been amazing with each book, and each book just continues to blow me away. The author sent me her book for being on her launch team.

Summary:

Caroline holds a deep secret. Living in 1727 and 1927 simultaneously, each night she goes to sleep in one life and wakes up in the other. In search of answers to her unique existence, Caroline stumbles upon a letter from her mother hinting at her own experiences as a time-crosser, sending Caroline on a daring quest to uncover the truth. In 1727, Caroline disguises herself as a cabin boy and joins a ship sailing for the Bahamas, her mother's last known location, where she crosses paths with a ruthless but handsome pirate and is caught in a web of secrets, deception, and unexpected alliances.

In 1927 St. Paul, Minnesota, Caroline grapples with her other life as the daughter of a renowned preacher. Her two older brothers have fallen prey to the corruption rampant during Prohibition, and Caroline struggles to keep their involvement hidden to save her father's career. As her search for answers about her time-crossing leads her to the dangerous yet exciting world of speakeasies, Caroline enlists the help of a childhood friend who is now a police officer. But with her family's future at risk and their loyalties tested, Caroline faces a life-altering decision that could reshape her destiny.

My Review:

Once again, the author has blown me away with her time-crossing story, Across the Ages! The detail she takes in each timeline and keeping all of the history and pieces seamless as well as connected is mind boggling!

We meet Caroline, who is an absolutely wonderful characters. There's no guile in her, and her innocence is endearing. More than that though, in both timeliness she's determined. Unlike the other stories, she has no one guiding her in her time-crossing. She doesn't know the "rules" that pertain to it.

Getting to know her in 1727 give us a connecting to book three in the series and I truly adored it. 1927 also gives us a connection to book three! Have I mentioned how much I LOVE this story?!

In 1727 we get to know Marcus as well. He's the quartermaster to a pirate captain who is being hunted. As Carl (aka Caroline) gets to know Marcus, there's a growing affection... except she's pretending to be a boy. It's hard to imagine someone being in your face and not realizing they're not who they're portraying themselves to be!

1927 holds a lot of heartache for Caroline and her family. Her father is a well-known pastor from Minnesota, and unfortunately, his sons have chosen to live lives that are far from the Lord. The crazy twist that comes from this timeline is just so sad. Caroline perseveres to find answers though, and I think that makes her one of my favorites! Thank goodness she has Lewis with her through her journey to learn the truth.

Faith is such an important piece in both timelines. The author does a magnificent job of showing readers that EVERYONE is deserving of the redemption and love of Christ. That no one is ever too far gone that if they turn to the Savior He won't answer, because He will!

Of course, I was trying, in vain, to guess which timeline Caroline was going to choose. I'm always "leery" of authors making things too obvious. Ha! I changed my mind numerous times throughout the story just because of the ideas I kept coming up with as I read.

I'll be honest and say I'll never tire of this series. The author is SO creative and the writing is phenomenal. It's an adventure each time I crack her books open. How she continues to come up with unique ideas is beyond me, but she is a gifted writer!

About the Author:

Gabrielle Meyer is an ECPA bestselling author. She has worked for state and local historical societies and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides along the banks of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota with her husband and four children. By day, she's a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and nonfiction filled with hope. Find her online at GabrielleMeyer.com.