All's Fair In Love And Christmas By Sarah Monzon

All's Fair in Love and Christmas

by Sarah Monzon

Publisher: Bethany House

ISBN: 9780764242052

Having not read any books by this author, I thought this was the perfect time with her newest release! Oh my word, I wasn't disappointed. Now I want to read EVERYTHING she's written! Bethany House sent me her book for review.

Summary:

Two workplace rivals. One festive competition. And a romance that upends it all.

Every December two things are guaranteed for graphic designer Mackenzie Graham--Christmas celebrations and the annual promotion at her workplace. Those two things are by no means mutually exclusive. In fact, the better an employee is at harnessing the Christmas spirit, the more likely they'll win the new job. With her social anxiety, Mackenzie never thought she'd be a contender in her company's holiday competition, so how exactly has she found herself dueling her workplace crush with wrapping paper tubes and using tinsel as her weapon of choice for a much-needed raise?

Jeremy Fletcher's life is meticulously planned out, including how to win this year's promotion at work. Not only will the new position fulfill some of his career goals, but as a single guardian to his twin niece and nephew, he needs the salary increase to support his family. Jeremy has barely noticed Mackenzie Graham around the office, but now that she's his rival, he can't stop thinking about her. Her quirkiness intrigues him, and he's afraid that if he can't get his head on straight, the promotion isn't the only thing he'll end up losing to Mackenzie.

My Review:

What absolutely delightful story! All's Fair in Love and Christmas honestly took me by surprise. The writing drew me in from page one and didn't let me go until the end. Think of a contemporary Christmas movie, but better! While it could've been cliche, it wasn't! It could've been cheesy, but all it did was give me heart eyes. Literally, everything about the story was wonderful! There wasn't a wasted word on the page.

Ok, enough of my gushing about the overall book, let's talk about the characters, storyline, etc. Mackenzie was completely endearing. I appreciated that the author made Mackenzie's social anxiety completely believable and not over-the-top. As a reader (who doesn't deal with that) I could almost feel her unease and struggles! I also appreciated the storyline with her mom included, who is living with Alzheimer's.

Next, we're introduced to Jeremy. He's Mackenzie's competition for the office promotion. It's hard to cheer against him when he's such a likable guy and has a lot on his plate. I loved him with his niece and nephew. And when he starts to see, actually SEE Mackenzie, it's fun to be a fly on the wall.

I loved the entire cast of the book (well, aside from Frank hahaha) and they all played a part to make this story complete. From Sofiya who gets the ball rolling for the promotion, to the office co-workers, and their best friends they made the competition fun!

Of course, I have to say, the faith thread in this story was sweet and felt entirely natural, which I truly appreciated! Mackenzie's struggles and looking to the Lord was something that I think we can all relate to!

Now, I'm off to find every other book the author has written so I can devour them as well!

About the Author:

HOLT Medallion and Selah Award-winner, and a Carol Award finalist, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her. Learn more at sarahmonzonwrites.com.

52 Weeks In The Word By Trillia J. Newbell

52 Weeks in the Word

by Trillia J. Newbell

Publisher: Moody

ISBN: 978-0-8024-2835-6

As a reviewer for Moody Publishers, I reached out to them recently and asked if I could review this companion for reading through the Bible. I wanted to make sure I shared it before the end of the year in case anyone else was looking to read through Scripture this coming year. They sent me the book for review.

Summary:

A joy-filled, thoughtful, and realistic pathway through the entirety of God's Word! 

Have you ever been disappointed or frustrated with your inability for consistent Bible study? Reading through the Bible in a year can feel daunting. It can be hard to know how—or where—to start. Perhaps you just need a friend who follows Jesus to help. Trillia Newbell is a trusted Bible teacher and lover of the Scriptures. She describes herself as a "forever student." And she'd like nothing more than for you to join her in the grand and thrilling adventure of growing in the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ! Rather than jumping around the Bible, you can jump into this book that will take you through the entirety of the Scriptures in one year!

This book provides:

• A reading plan—not too big or too small
• 52 Reflections—one per week
• Prayer prompts for each Scripture reading
• Built in rest and catch-up days
• Space for your own reflection or study
• Easy instructions so you can begin throughout the year!

52 Weeks in the Word guides you through God's sacred and trusted Word, all while helping you organize your reading and pausing for deeper meditation. The result? Greater knowledge of God, by grace and the power of the Spirit, can lead to wisdom and worship of God. You'll discover treasures—some old to you, some new—help for daily living, hope in times of suffering, and a deep abiding relationship with the God who loves you.

My Review:

I had been wanting to check out 52 Weeks in the Word for the past few months! I saw it on Instagram and thought it would be something that would be terrific to do in 2024! I WANT to read through the Bible, but it's always so daunting to me.

I felt like Trillia met me right where I'm at in the Introduction. She recognized that we each come to a book like this with the best of intentions or curious as to what it holds. She breaks down each day and week so we know what to expect. There's an Estimated Reading Time chart that I found interesting and surprising! 3 John being the shortest and get this... Jeremiah is the longest!

My husband and I are reading through first and second Samuel. When we were reading one of the chapters in 2nd Samuel last week, one of the questions that came to my mind was, "How does the Scripture point to Jesus?" It just didn't make sense to me! Thankfully, my husband came up with a couple of ideas. 

Each day in this companion reading one of the questions is, "Where is Jesus in these chapters?" and "Where do you see the gospel?" I think those are exactly the reminders I need each time I read the daily Scripture. At the end of each week, there's a Reflection to read on the "rest" day.

As for the visual appeal of the companion, I have to tell you how much I love the muted colors. All of the earth tones are definitely my preference. Each week has a new color and an illustration to go along with it. At the end of the book is a reading plan that goes along with the 52 weeks and a few pages where you can take extra notes.

I'm looking forward to diving in January 1st! Do YOU want to join me in the journey? Grab a copy (link above, and I don't get anything if you get one) and we can do it together! 

About the Author:

TRILLIA NEWBELL is the author of several books including 52 Weeks in the Word, A Great Cloud of Witnesses, Sacred Endurance, If God is For Us, Fear and Faith and the children's books, The Big Wide Welcome, Creative God, Colorful Us and God's Very Good Idea. When she isn't writing, she's encouraging and supporting other writers as an Acquisitions Director at Moody Publishers. She is also the host of the 52 Weeks in the Word podcast and the Living By Faith weekly radio program. Trillia is married to her best friend, Thern; they reside with their two children near Nashville, TN.

Dreaming About Forever By Mandi Blake

Dreaming About Forever

by Mandi Blake

Publisher: Independent

Series: Christmas in Redemption Ridge

ISBN: 978-1953372475

I was so excited after reading my first book by Mandi a couple of months ago that she'd reach out to me to read her next book that released at the end of November. I couldn't wait to read it, especially since I'd be heading back to Redemption Ridge during Christmas! She sent me her book for review.

Summary:

Her handsome bodyguard is doing a great job protecting her from reporters, but she may need to protect her heart.

Former child sitcom star Alicia Carver loves the spotlight, but since launching her pop music career, the dirtier side of the business has been out to tear her apart. When her parents are charged with embezzlement, and her A-list fiancé dumps her on the red carpet, her perfect life crumbles faster than her rise to fame. Retreating to a small town seems like the best choice she has to avoid the press.

Jordan Taylor’s plan to retire from the Marines when he was old and gray crashed and burned in Kandahar along with his best friend. Protecting entitled celebrities from paparazzi was the last thing he wanted, but no one else would hire an amputee with an attitude problem. If babysitting a pop princess wasn’t bad enough, his next job is sending him home to Redemption Ridge to spend Christmas with the family he hasn’t seen in years.

Alicia’s heartbreak is soothed by the picturesque Christmas town, but her stoic bodyguard will barely loosen up enough to show her around. His past and his body are covered in scars, and she can’t help but wonder if he needs healing in Redemption Ridge just as much as she does.

Between Jordan, his family, and the townspeople who have welcomed her with open arms, Alicia is torn between rekindling her love of music and finding a forever home in Redemption Ridge. When the rumors start flying and wrecking her new happiness, will Alicia be able to set things right before the real world tears her new dream apart?

Visit Redemption Ridge, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series of Christian romance.

This series is a spin-off continuation of the best-selling Heroes of Freedom Ridge Series with all new characters and traditions, but the same magic of community and romance readers love.

My Review:

Holy snowy romance! What a fun story. If you're a fan of contemporary romance during the holidays, Dreaming About Forever is the book for you.

When I started reading the book, so many performers came to mind. I feel like the author really did an outstanding job of making the story feel so real. When you look at the real world paparazzi, you see relationships unfold before your eyes and that's what happens in this fictional story, but you'd think it was totally true! Alicia is a well-loved singer who has grown up in the spotlight and in one night her whole world comes crashing down around her. You just feel awful for her.

Along comes Jordan, working at Field, Inc to be Alicia's bodyguard (well, security agent says Jordan) after her security team ditches her along with her so-called fiancé. They head to Jordan's home where Alicia can let the dust settle on all that's happened to her. This place that Jordan is sure will be too rustic for her star life.

But, regardless of the rules of the job, there's not much that can stop the heart from going where it wants. For Alicia, it was easy to see why she'd fall in love with Jordan's family. His mom is the kind of person I strive to be. She and her husband (well, the whole town to be honest) give off that small town Hallmark-y vibe. How could anyone not fall in love at their ranch?!

As the story went along you could've cut the tension with a knife. The author certainly has a knack for stringing us along waiting for the romance to blossom! HA! It doesn't help when both of the main characters are fighting it as well.

You can't beat the faith thread that's woven all throughout the story! And goodness, I'll admit that I teared up at the end. There's a super special moment (no, not the one you're thinking) that just made my heart soar and put a smile on my face!

This was a terrific story that's perfect any time of the year, but especially during the Christmas season!

About the Author:

Mandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.

You can sign up for her newsletter and get the free novella, South of Skye, and the free full-length book, A Thousand Words.

While Shepherds Watch Are Keeping By Susanne Dietze

While Shepherds Watch Are Keeping

by Susanne Dietz

Publisher: Independent

AISN: B0CNFXH7XQ

It was so nice to hear from the author asking if I would review her new novella that just released. Having not read her books in the past, but following her for a long time, I was thrilled with the chance. She sent me her ebook for review.

Summary:

Massachusetts, 1899

This Christmas, Pastor Seth Shepherd has little to offer his flock of congregants in their time of need until Jessalyn Grant, a mysterious newcomer, comes to his aid.

My Review:

While Shepherds Watch Are Keeping was just a sweet novella to read just in time for Christmas. We meet Jessalyn who has the skills that will hopefully help the little town that is struggling with the mill closing. At the same time, she meets Pastor Seth Shepherd who is doing all he can to encourage his little flock.

When the two of them put their minds together, there's no stopping them. Unfortunately, the pastor's plans aren't ones Jessalyn is expecting.

I enjoyed getting to know both characters as they do all they can to help the little town. Jessalyn and Seth both have things in common such as their faith and issues with their family members. Neither live up to expectations.

If you're looking for a historical holiday read to get you into the Christmas spirit, this one will truly enjoy.

About the Author:

Susanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's an award-winning, RWA RITA®-nominated author who's seen her work on the ECPA, Amazon, and Publisher's Weekly Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and enjoys fancy-schmancy tea parties, genealogy, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama. To learn more, visit her website, www.susannedietze.com, and sign up for her newsletter: https://bit.ly/SusanneDietzeNewsletter

A Winter By The Sea By Julie Klassen

A Winter by the Sea

by Julie Klassen

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: On Devonshire Shores

ISBN: 9780764234286

If you know anything about me, I'm a Julie Klassen junkie, errrr, a fan. A Julie Klassen fan!! I've read every single one of her books and am always excited for the next one. Julie sent me her book for review!

Summary:

Royalty comes to Sidmouth, bringing unexpected danger and the sweet possibility of romance. . . .

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their daughter--the future Queen Victoria--rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal family's male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they've invited secrets and intrigue into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers longs to become an author. A local publisher offers to consider her novel if she will first write a Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily agrees and begins researching the area with help from the Duke of Kent's handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she's long held dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

My Review:

If you enjoy savoring a book for the cast, location, and storyline, A Winter by the Sea is one you'll enjoy!

First of all, can we talk about the cover?! Just as amazing as the first book in the series.

I have to admit, Julie Klassen has a knack for writing stories with a great ensemble of characters. This story is no exception. This time the Summers ladies are to host some of the staff of the Duke and Dutchess of Kent! What an honor and stress inducing situation!

No surprise that the three staff are all men who are as different as night and day. One makes me squint at him to wonder what in the world he's up to, once gave me (and Emily) heart eyes, and there last had me rolling my eyes on the regular.

Emily, somewhat the "lead" in this story has SO much going on! She hopes to get her first novel published, but she seems to be dashed at every turn. Then, there's the heartbreak she's still dealing with from Charles giving her the cut after her sister Claire runs off a year ago. I couldn't say I was sad that Mr. Thompson started catching her eye. Who can resist a man willing to give the youngest sister, Georgiana fencing lessons?!

I'll admit that I don't very often pay attention to the epigraphs, but with every new chapter, I couldn't wait to read them to have an idea of what might be coming! Be sure to read them as you go.

Sidmouth came alive in this story. I could imaging taking a walk along the esplanade, the cold weather, the sea caves, running into the nanny and princess, etc. I absolutely want to visit this area one day just imagining the characters in this series!

About the Author:

Julie Klassen (www.julieklassen.com) loves all things Jane--Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than 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 sixteen 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.