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.

My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers By Jonathan Gibson

My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers

My First ABC Book of Bible Verses

by Jonathan Gibson

Illustrated by Mike Mullan

Publisher: New Growth Press

ISBN: 9781645074953 & 9781645074090

I was so grateful that New Growth Press sent me both of these books to share with my granddaughters. With my first granddaughter going into preschool, I thought these would be perfect for her!

Summary:

My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers

Introduce preschoolers to numbers found in Scripture with My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers.

Jonathan Gibson helps toddlers and preschoolers learn basic Bible facts along with their 1-2-3s. Each number from 1 to 12 has a bright and engaging page spread featuring a simple number fact and illustrations designed to help children practice their counting through finding the number throughout each page.

Parents, grandparents, and caregivers will love to use this book to teach the littlest ones Bible numbers in a fun, easy-to-remember way. By committing these big truths to their little hearts and minds, toddlers and preschoolers will be able to ground their young faith in God’s Word, which will guide them in the years to come. Children will learn about the writers of the Gospels, the days of creation, the fruit of the Spirit, and more. 

My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers is the second book in the Big Truths for Little Minds series, which introduces children ages 3–5 to basic concepts of the Christian faith.

My First ABC Book of Bible Verses

Introduce preschoolers to the wonderful truth of Scripture with My First ABC Book of Bible Verses.

Jonathan Gibson helps toddlers and preschoolers learn key Bible verses along with their ABCs. Each letter of the alphabet has a bright, captivatingly illustrated page with a short, foundational Bible verse to be memorized and a simple sentence that helps explain the verse.

Parents, grandparents, and caregivers will love to use this book to teach the littlest ones foundational truths in a fun, easy-to-remember way. By committing these big truths to their little hearts and minds, toddlers and preschoolers will be able to ground their young faith in God's Word, which will guide them in the years to come. Children will learn from the earliest age who made them, why they need Jesus, how to become a child of God, what to do when they are afraid, and many more life-changing truths.

My First ABC Book of Bible Verses is the first book in the Big Truths for Little Minds series, which introduces children ages 3–5 to basic concepts of the Christian faith.

My Review:

These books are absolutely delightful! First, they're both absolutely colorful from cover to cover. I love the font chosen inside the book because they're very easy to read and discern each letter, which is terrific for early readers.

In My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers each number is huge! A great way to help children find the number on each spread. The questions to help engage them are easy enough for the parents to read aloud. Each spread has three countable opportunities for them to search for items like animals that fly, specific animals, or something a warrior carries. There are also Truths on each page like the most important is that there is only 1 God! I would've loved to have a Scripture reference on each page to go with each Truth.

In My First ABC Book of Bible Verses children are taught specific Bible verses with a word that represents each letter highlighted a different color than the rest of the text & in all capital letters. Each Scripture has the reference underneath it. Every letter of the alphabet fills nearly the entire page, which is great for little ones! There's also a sentence to go along with each Scripture to help talk to children about what it means. They're very simple and easy for little ones to grasp. It's also a great prompt for those teaching the littles ones about God and His Word. I will say that the illustrations on each page don't "go" with the letter. If you're used to an A having an apple or a B having a ball, you won't find that here. This "First" book is more about teaching our children about the Lord and each letter than what to associate the letters with.

About the Author:

Jonathan Gibson, PhD, is ordained in the International Presbyterian Church (UK) and serves as Associate Professor of Old Testament, Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia. He is the author of Isaiah: Good News for the Wayward and Wandering, 2 Peter: Living with the End in Mind, Lamentations: How Christ Lifts the Burden of Sin and Sorrow, The Moon Is Always Round and the Big Truths for Little Minds series. He is married to Jackie, and they have four children.

About the Illustrator:

Michael Mullan is an artist and illustrator specializing in bold design, hand lettering, and whimsical maps. Michael grew up in the Chicago suburbs. He studied graphic design and earned an MFA in illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design. He lives and works from his home studio in Vermont. When he's not creating art, he enjoys hiking, running trails, and being outdoors.

The Collector Of Burned Books By Roseanna M. White

The Collector of Burned Books

by Roseanna M. White

Publisher: Tyndale House

ISBN: 979-8-4005-0174-6

First, the cover... stunning, right? Second, Roseanna M. White! Third, I'm on her launch team and she sent me the book for my review!

Summary:

In this gripping World War II historical about the power of words, two people form an unlikely friendship amid the Nazi occupation in Paris and fight to preserve the truth that enemies of freedom long to destroy.

Paris, 1940. Ever since the Nazi Party began burning books, German writers exiled for their opinions or heritage have been taking up residence in Paris. There they opened a library meant to celebrate the freedom of ideas and gathered every book on the banned list . . . and even incognito versions of the forbidden books that were smuggled back into Germany.

For the last six years, Corinne Bastien has been reading those books and making that library a second home. But when the German army takes possession of Paris, she loses access to the library and all the secrets she’d hidden there. Secrets the Allies will need if they have any hope of liberating the city she calls home.

Christian Bauer may be German, but he never wanted anything to do with the Nazi Party—he is a professor, one who’s done his best to protect his family as well as the books that were a threat to Nazi ideals. But when Goebbels sends him to Paris to handle the “relocation” of France’s libraries, he’s forced into an army uniform and given a rank he doesn’t want. In Paris, he tries to protect whoever and whatever he can from the madness of the Party and preserve the ideas that Germans will need again when that madness is over, and maybe find a lost piece of his heart.

My Review:

I have been a fan of the author's books for years. WWII is one of my favorite historical time periods to read. I was also intrigued by what this story might hold.

I liked Corinne from the start. She was a character who I could get behind and root for. Trying to learn how to be a spy from her uncle seemed like a task that would take forever. As Corinne learned, being a spy wasn't easy and patience hard to come by.

We also meet Christian, who is sent to Paris to go through the libraries to document and get rid of banned books. Being forced into this "work" that he doesn't have the stomach for gives readers an interesting insight into people who were put in positions working for the Nazi party who wanted to rebel against them, but doing so would've been dangerous! As the layers of his story are peeled back, we begin to understand the choices he made.

Corinne, of course, has no tolerance for the Germans who have invaded her country. Unfortunately, there are a couple who have taken note of her, which puts her in a very precarious position. Trying to keep out of their line of sight becomes harder and harder the more she becomes connected to Christian. There was danger pretty much at every turn, no one was safe, and scrutiny by the Nazi officers was to be avoided at all costs.

While I liked the story, it had a much different feel than her previous stories. I can't put my finger on what the difference is, but it just didn't hit the same for me. There is a faith element that's Catholic in nature so I wasn't really able to connect with that part of the story.

About the Author:

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award–winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she's homeschooling, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books . . . to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at RoseannaMWhite.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.

To Love A Beast By Karen Witemeyer

To Love a Beast

by Karen Witemeyer

Publisher: Hope & Light Publishing

Series: Once Upon a Time in Texas

ISBN: 979-8992420517

I enjoy fairytale retellings, and I've read the first three Karen wrote before To Love a Beast. She was kind enough to send me a digital copy of the story, but of course, you know I'll be getting a print copy to go along with all of her other books on my shelf!

Summary:

Beauty & the Beast in 1800's Texas.

Once known among New York's elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. The treachery of a former admirer left his face and his spirit riddled with scars, so he hides himself away, his only companions a trio of trusted servants and an oversized dog. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses.

When an injury to her father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, Callista Rosenfeld determines to fulfill the contract herself, and no insufferable client or woman-eating dog will deter her. Finding unlikely allies among Mr. Griffin's staff, Callista secures her position and sets to work transforming the manor's remarkable library. Her employer transforms as well, his ill-tempered growls subsiding to reveal a considerate, intellectual nature. Affection blooms as Callista and Everett discover hidden depths in each other, but the evil schemes of a vengeful hunter threaten to leave their love and their lives in tatters.

My Review:

I thought To Love a Beast stayed very true to the Beauty and the Beast story that I know. I've never read the original classic, but this is everything I hoped it would be and more. The roles were switched this time, which gave it its own twist.

I really enjoyed Callista's tenacity in a time when women didn't handle business matters, but also that she wasn't going to let her family's business be lost because someone won't work with her! Her first interaction with the "beast" would've scared me off, but Callista wasn't having it! I think any of us could imagine how we'd feel or think if we'd been scarred like Everett. Hiding away, where no one can see him, certainly closed him down to the rest of the world.

There were some amusing moments, especially when it came to the staff at Manticore Manor. Good thing they knew what was best for their master! Their interaction with Everett (especially Lightfoot) had me chuckling quite a bit! I think these moments were some of my favorite in the story. I also appreciated how Callista & Everett's relationship grew naturally over their time spent together. It was so sweet to watch them work their way to each other in their hearts.

Mr. Batton, who Callista meets on her way to Everett's manor, is a piece of work from the moment we meet him. He fits a southern Gaston to a T! Let's just say he's insufferable. There's also a bit of suspense/mystery once we hit the halfway mark. 

As always, I'm thankful the author weaves faith into her stories! Such a great reminder that in Christ we are a new creation (and, ahem, we don't have to be a beast any more). I always love the "found family" trope one that touches my heart.

I'm really looking forward to more stories in this series!

About the Author:

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers' Favorite Christian Historical Author in 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and family board game player who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she's on deadline. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.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.

Levi's Loyalty By Lynne Lanning + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Levi's Loyalty by Lynne Lanning, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! Y'all... this cover! Are we all in agreement that it's pretty swoony?! Be sure to check out my review & the giveaway below. Thanks to the author for my audiobook copy for this review.

About the Book

Title: Levi's Loyalty
Series: Mountain Men - Longing Hearts in the Wilderness
Author: Lynne Lanning
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance (Christian)

Levi found out how much void a woman could fill in his heart… 

But the heartache and betrayal wasn’t worth it. 

He was better off alone… wasn’t he? 

Levi enjoys his secluded life on the mountain until his friend convinces him he needs a woman in his life. A wife, when you’ve barely been around people, especially women? If only he could pick one out at the store like a shovel or bag of flour. But Levi falls head over heels—ignoring all the warning signs that something is wrong—until a delay in marrying her reveals her true intentions. 

Now, he’s decided heartache and betrayal aren’t worth it. He’s better off alone. But God has a surprise waiting in the wilderness, softening the devastation he had suffered…in the form of a feisty woman who has claimed his mountain home for her own. 

 PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

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Book Review

If you're someone who enjoys historical fiction, forced proximity, and a grumpy sunshine, then this story will be right up your alley. A man who isn't even sure he wants to settle down is "jilted" by a woman who, thank goodness, he dodged a bullet by not marrying. Unfortunately, it sours him to the idea of marriage altogether. 

An injury waylays him, and when he ends up back at his cabin, lo and behold, a young woman has taken up residence in his cabin. Charlie is pretty feisty and initially gives Levi a run for his money. Levi is definitely a man's man. He's also not afraid to use his size to his advantage. There was definitely a Jack Reacher moment in this story that kind of had me cracking up. 

The story was definitely sweet. If you like a story that has a rugged mountain man & loyal and a woman who is strong & independent, but willing to soften around the edges, I think you'll be drawn into this one.

About the Author

Lynne Lanning has such an effortless way of evoking emotion from her readers. Her characters are so realistic that the reader can feel their pain during trials and their joy during triumphs. Reviews state: "...it's as if Mrs. Lanning lived through this herself." "Couldn't put it down..." "A real page turner." Lynne enjoys turning history and her love of God into enjoyable, relatable stories with practical life lessons that can benefit people today. Each story tells of true bonds of love and loyalty, mixed with tough times and decisions, with a twist of humor and sometimes devastation...the same is true in life. With a blend of her own family members and heritage along with lots of fiction, it's hard to tell where reality stops and fantasy begins.

Connect with Lynne by subscribing to her email newsletter updates or following her on Amazon.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a gift basket with homemade scented soaps (like you'll find in the story), a print copy of Levi's Loyalty, a print copy of one of Lynne Lanning's 2025 Selah Awards finalist titles (winner's choice between To Trust a Heart or Mail-Order Stonemason), and bookmarks!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 12, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 19, 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

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

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.

The One Who Changed Everything By Tara Grace Erickson

The One Who Changed Everything

by Tara Grace Erickson

Publisher: Silver Fountain Press

Series: Second Chance Fire Station

ISBN: 978-1949896732

Do you love book mail? I was so shocked to get physical book mail a couple of weeks ago! Tara Grace sent me her newest release, The One Who Changed Everything. I had already read it with an ebook, so this was a fun surprise to open!

Summary:

I never expected to see him again.

When I met Evan, he was everything I never thought I could have—steady, kind, the kind of man who made me believe in something more. But one reckless night changed everything. By the time I found out I was pregnant, he was gone, and I had every reason to believe he’d never come back.

For fourteen years, I built a life for my daughter, protecting her, providing for her, never letting myself wonder what if. Evan was a stranger from my past, a man whose wealthy family could take everything from me if they ever found out. But then he showed up in my small town—stronger, haunted, and completely unaware of the little girl who carried his eyes. And the moment he looks at her, I know the truth will come out.

I wanted to keep my distance. I told myself he only cared because of Sophia, that he’d never really wanted me. But every look, every touch, every moment together makes it harder to deny the truth.

Because Evan Mercer wasn’t just the man I lost. He was The One Who Changed Everything.

The One Who Changed Everything is the final standalone book in the inspirational Second Chance Fire Station series. Dive into this heartwarming second chance romance today!

My Review:

Sam works at a library in Minden (one of my favorite fictional small towns), and an accidental fire sends the fire department to make sure everyone is safe. What she's not expecting is to see her past show up to the rescue in the form of Evan, a one week (and night) stand from her younger years! Neither of them has any idea what transpired after "that night," which leads to the rest of the story! 

While I'm not usually a fan of hidden pregnancy, the author made it completely work for this story! By the end, your heart goes out to all three of them! This is another one of those stories where you'll want to reach into the pages and wallop the jerk of a father! I'm just sayin'...

I really liked Sam's daughter because even though she's a young teenager, she's observant and a smart kiddo. As Sam tries to keep her distance from Evan, he's drawn to her just as much as he was years ago.

This is another story where I have strong feelings about Evan's father. Meddling parents, and not in the good way, make me want to pull my hair out! That's kudos to the author for getting me so worked up! On the flip side, I always want to cheer when the MMC stands up to the parent who has had such a negative impact on their child's life.

One of the many things I enjoyed about this story is that Evan, once he knew he was Sophia's dad, he really stepped up to the plate. I thought it was a good representation of how hard it must've been for all of them to integrate into a new family... that wasn't a family. After being a single mom, it's hard to let someone else help parent your child, even if it is the biological dad!

I'm sad this is the end of the series, but I hope we'll have the opportunity to go back to Minden!

About the Author:

Tara Grace Ericson lives in Missouri with her husband and three sons. She studied engineering and worked as an engineer for many years before embracing her creative side to become a full-time author and mom. 

She loves cooking, crocheting, and reading books by the dozen. She also loves a good “happily ever after” with an engaging love story. 

That's why Tara focuses on writing clean contemporary romance, with an emphasis on Christian faith and living. She wants to encourage her readers with stories of men and women who live out their faith in tough situations.

The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House By Joanna Davidson Politano

the Curious Inheritance of Blakely House

by Joanna Davidson Politano

Publisher: Revell

ISBN: 9780800742980

As a long time fan of JDP, I couldn't wait to read this story! They really should be in a class of their own. This book certainly doesn't fit into one specific genre and I love that! The author & publisher sent me the book for review!

Summary:

A clever young woman, a contested will, and an estate that does not easily give up its secrets.

It is 1901 when clockmaker and tinker Sydney Forrester receives a most unusual inheritance. Blakely House, the island estate of an estranged uncle she's never met, seems almost alive, revealing and hiding its secrets at will. It is filled with remarkable inventions, including an intriguing unfinished automaton Sydney is itching to get her skilled hands on.

The estate is also home to a number of peculiar people--including two men intent on removing this interloper from the island. Convinced that Sydney has something to do with their uncle's death, the late master's nephews contest the will and work against their cousin at every turn. 

Sydney finds a sometimes-ally in the estate's butler, an ex-adventurer who ran aground on the island years ago. But when a mysterious man washes ashore with a stunning surprise that upsets everything, Sydney must prove she has inherited the late master's brilliance as well as his property--or someone else will.

My Review:

The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House was such a fascinating story. It's different than any of the other books this author has written and I'm sure I've never read anything like it before.

The beginning felt a bit disjointed. I didn't quite understand what was going on, but it turns out it was intentional, at least in my opinion. I feel like now that I've read the book once, reading it from the start wouldn't be as "confusing." I know this might sound negative, but it's not. I have lived with ADD all of my life, and could see & understand the beginning more as I got further into it. That being said, I could also see myself in Sydney with some of her different quirks. I actually thought she was on the Autism spectrum, but extremely high functioning. If you want to get a fictional idea of what it's like to live in someone's brain that's wired differently, this story will give it to you in spades!

I really liked awkward Sydney. She knows she's not like most people. She accepts her lot in life and tries to make the best of it with her Aunt Lottie. That is until a strange woman shows up at their little shop and sends Sydney on an adventure, which is completely outside of her carefully crafted world of the same things day in and day out.

She takes her cat, Micah, with her as she makes her way to Blakely House, where she encounters the oddest of men who all look at her with suspicion. She upends their already strange existence in her Uncle Emmet's home. Turns out, she's not the only one vying for the inheritance.

We also meet the butler, André. Having lived in Emmet's home, he's had a glimpse into the mind of someone who's different than most. André's past is a mystery, but Sydney is sure he's a pirate in hiding. He has his own struggles, but overcomes them as best he can. 

Sydney has a lot to contend with in this odd house with inventions Uncle Emmet has left incomplete, rooms that seem to come and go, and lights that turn off and on randomly. It's easy to see a brilliant mind lived in that house. We also learn of Emmet's great love who left his little island when she was a young girl.

There are twists and turns galore, mysterious ship wrecks, more adventure, romance, and faith. I loved how André helped turn Sydney's eyes to a Creator!

About the Author:

Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, Finding Lady Enderly, The Love Note, A Midnight Dance, The Lost Melody, and The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple. She loves tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives and is eager to hear anyone's story. She lives with her husband and their children in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan. You can find her online at JDPStories.com.