2.18.2025

Before the King by Heather Kaufman // Review

My Review: A powerful story of hope, love and restoration. 

Torn apart by tragedy and married out of convenience, Joanna is curious to learn more of a mysterious teacher who preaches of a coming kingdom and holds the power to heal. 

A moving and evocative tale that explores the time that Jesus walked the earth through Joanna, a woman mentioned briefly in Scripture as a woman who supported the ministry of Jesus from her own means. Joanna is a beautiful woman, who has suffered a great deal of loss, while her family seeks to position themselves well among society. Her story is brought to life, as we see her go from a uncertain young woman to a devoted follower of Jesus. I could feel her heartaches, through the emotionally rich storytelling, and strong character arc throughout. 

This is the kind of story that sucks you in from the very beginning and doesn't let go until the final page is turned down. I was quickly drawn into the life of Joanna and that of the people surrounding her. I especially liked the unique point of view, that the story explores. 

Overall, a compelling and well done work of Biblical fiction, with wonderful attention to accuracy and detail. A gripping novel, with well developed characters, and a powerful message of faith, hope, and love. Highly recommend!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

2.14.2025

The Debutante's Second Chance by Lisa M. Prysock // Celebrate Lit

 


About the Book

 


Book: The Debutante’s Second Chance

Author: Lisa M. Prysock

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: January 28, 2025

As the horseracing world teeters on the brink of collapse, she fights to save her family’s stables.
The return of the man who once shattered her heart is the last thing she needs—or is it?

Miss Gladdie Lyndon’s world is turned upside down when her father’s stroke leaves her in charge of Velvet Brooks Horse Farm. With the horseracing industry in decline and the 1908 Kentucky Derby on the brink of cancellation, Gladdie faces an uphill battle to save her family’s legacy. The pressure mounts as clients abandon the farm, leaving her to pin all hopes on a mysterious new horse champion.

As she grapples with these challenges, Gladdie is blindsided by the return of Clay Grinstead—the man who left her heartbroken on the eve of their wedding. Now a widowed father, Clay has come back to Lexington with dreams of a fresh start and a determination to win back Gladdie’s love. He sees an opportunity to help her save Velvet Brooks and the Derby, but Gladdie must decide if she can trust him.

As they navigate financial peril and emotional wounds, Clay works to tear down the walls around Gladdie’s heart. Together, they must confront their shared history and forge a path forward. Can they rescue the farm and revive the Derby, or will their past heartbreak thwart their future happiness?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

Dive into the world of horse racing and Kentucky royalty with this second chance romance that explores an exciting time in horse racing history. 

Gladdie Lyndon thought she lost her chance at love years ago when the only man she cared about disappeared without a word, now she's fighting for her family's legacy and a face from the past comes back offering to help her. I really liked seeing Gladdie get her own story, and see the capable woman she has become, taking on large responsibilities and working to find a solution for her family. I liked how she was willing to work with Clay and how they rekindled their friendship. 

A well written read and great addition to the series, with great characters as well as solid themes of faith and forgiveness. An enjoyable read, with great character interaction and strong relationship building. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author


Lisa M. Prysock is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes both Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Christian Romance books—”Romance with a Dash of Food, Fashion, Faith, & Fun.” She writes both traditionally and indie published novels.

Kentucky inspires her writing and is home. Happily married to her husband of more than 24 years, she homeschooled two of their five children, now grown. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cross stitch, crochet, sew, scrapbook, read, swim, dance, take walks, travel, explore historical homes, garden, cook for her family, learn to play the piano and violin, and read great books.

 

More from Lisa

I wrote this book because I firmly believe in second chances. In fact, I believe in third, fourth, and fifth chances too. I’m a recipient of God’s grace and He’s been so good to me, giving me many second chances when I didn’t always deserve it, and sometimes, just because it was needed. He also knows when something hasn’t necessarily been fair in our lives. He is the God who sees, and many times I’ve seen Him step forward to grant me an opportunity or a second chance in my life because something happened that wasn’t my fault, didn’t go in my favor, and actually made things harder for me, but He wanted to make it right and gave me something extra to work all things together for my good. I’m sure many of you can relate. Isn’t this a marvelous thing when it happens?

Our heroine, the main character, Gladdie—a family name for my maternal great aunt and my maternal grandmother—is given a second chance at romance after being jilted by the hero, Clay. But can Gladdie forgive him after he jilted her? Clay has reasons for what happened, but Gladdie has no idea what his reasons are. Will she ever give him a chance to explain? As you can see, it’s all about second chances, all the way around.

I also wrote this book because one of the secondary characters in the story reminds me of someone dear to my heart who went through tremendously difficult things. Unspeakable things I can’t write. Maybe it was therapeutic for me to write that character’s story somehow. Sometimes people we love experience hardship and there isn’t anything we can do about it except pray after we’ve done everything else we can do. I can’t wait to bring a beautiful ending for that particular character in a sequel.

There is a third and fourth reason I wrote this story. Thirdly, I wanted to give readers a glimpse of Gilded Age Europe and the horseracing world of England and France. I plan to write more of this in a sequel as well. It was so much fun to share more about the Gilded Age history of racing from a European perspective by taking readers to Ascot and Longchamps.

Fourthly, my research led me to understand more about the reality of the decline in horseracing in America that began around the time of the Gilded Age. Tracks were closing all around the nation. We’d gone from having more than three-hundred racecourses to fewer than fifty. New York had introduced legislation that could alter the course of racing in that state too, and many feared other states would soon follow.

I was fascinated to read about how Colonel Matt Winn, the President of Churchill Downs, helped to save the Kentucky Derby of 1908 as I read more about the opposition they faced. The changes in the industry brought about machine betting, or what is commonly known as pari-mutuel betting. It was so interesting that it didn’t take me long to begin to see my characters involved with saving the Derby of 1908 too. While most of my story is fictionalized, I think readers will find it a fascinating read as I’ve included the nuts and bolts from my research about this situation. In any case, I hope readers will immensely enjoy The Debutante’s Second Chance. It comes directly from my heart.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 13

Labor Not in Vain, February 14

Devoted To Hope, February 14

Texas Book-aholic, February 15

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 16

lakesidelivingsite, February 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 20

Books You Can Feel Good About, February 21

Simple Harvest Reads, February 22 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, February 23

Holly’s Book Corner, February 24

Pause for Tales, February 25

Stories By Gina, February 26 (Author Interview)

Leslie’s Library Escape, February 26

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Lisa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon card!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54155


2.12.2025

Grandma Ruth Doesn't Go to Funerals by Sharon Mondragon // Just Read

Grandma Ruth Doesn't Go to Funerals JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Grandma Ruth Doesn’t Go To Funerals by Sharon Mondragon hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book



Title: 
Grandma Ruth Doesn’t Go To Funerals 
Author: Sharon Mondragon 
Publisher: Kregel Publications 
Release Date: February 11, 2025 
Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Something is brewing in Raeburne's Ferry, Georgia--and it's not sweet tea.

In a small town where gossip flows, bedridden Mary Ruth McCready reigns supreme, doling out wisdom and meddling in everyone's business with a fervor that would make a matchmaker blush. When her best friend has her world rocked by a scandalous revelation from her dying husband, Mary Ruth kicks into high gear, commandeering the help of her favorite granddaughter, Sarah Elizabeth, in tracking down the truth. Finding clues in funeral condolence cards and decades-old gossip dredged up at the Blue Moon Beauty Emporium, the two stir up trouble faster than you can say "pecan pie." 

But just when things are starting to look up, a blast from the past waltzes in with an outrageous claim. But as Grandma Ruth always says when things get tough, "God is too big." With him, nothing is impossible--even bringing long-held secrets to light. Grandma Ruth and Sarah just might have to ruffle a whole mess of feathers to do it.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & NobleChristianbook

Review: 

Grandma Ruth and Sarah Elizabeth are on the case with this cozy southern family drama, full of faith, family and heart!

Heartwarming with a full cast of characters in this close-knit community, I loved Grandma Ruth and Sarah Elizabeth's close friendship, and how she goes to funerals for her grandmother to keep her in the loop and pay her respects. They have a great relationship, and I enjoyed the humorous situations that they got into in search of the truth. 

There is so much going on in this book, brimming with heart, filled with humor, the bonds of love, family, and faith. All throughout this was a fun and upbeat read, heartwarming, but with moments that run deep. A highly enjoyable, feel-good read. Definitely recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.


About the Author

Sharon Mondragon

Sharon J. Mondragón is a Southern girl at heart, having spent most of her adult life where tea is sweet and mac and cheese is a vegetable. Settled in Midlothian, Texas, she writes, facilitates the prayer shawl ministry at her church, and teaches at the local yarn shop. She's the author of the Purls and Prayers series, and her work has earned recognition from The Saturday Evening Post, ACFW, Foreword INDIES, and the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.

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


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Grandma Ruth Doesn’t Go To Funerals and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Grandma Ruth Doesn't Go to Funerals JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 12, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on February 19, 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.


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

2.11.2025

Born of Gilded Mountains by Amanda Dykes // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A touching story of the power of friendship and coming of age. 

Mary Beth and Rusty become pen pals in school, and continue their correspondence into their teens, but as time goes by they lose track of each other. Each enduring their own heartbreaks, and finding their own way. The story is told in the present and past, through various means, like letters, and a screenplay.

Written in beautiful prose, the story wends through the years and miles, in this compelling read. I will admit that the time jumping was a little confusing at first, but once I found my bearings I was hooked. 

Overall, a well written read, with a compelling story of friendship, coming of age, grief, forgiveness, and restoration. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

2.10.2025

Serial Burn by Lynette Eason // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Jesslyn McCormick sees her past rising up like the smoke off a series of arsons that seem to be tied to the fire that killed her family when she was a child. Now she and FBI Agent Nathan Carlisle must get to the bottom of the fires before its too late.

An action packed read with elements from the past and the present that add to the suspense. I loved that Jesslyn had a great group of friends around her, and it was fun to see her growing friendship with Nathan. There was great interaction, plenty of mystery, with compelling main characters. 

A compelling and intriguing story of faith and forgiveness, interwoven with suspense and finding love. Entertaining and well written, I'm hoping this isn't the last that we see of some of the characters!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

2.06.2025

Where I Found You by Betsy St. Amant // Review

Where I Found You JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Where I Found You by Betsy St. Amant, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Where I Found You

Title: Where I Found You
Series:
Magnolia Bay #1
Author:
Betsy St. Amant
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date:
February 4, 2025
Genre:
Contemporary Southern Romance

From beloved author Betsy St. Amant comes a enemies to more, Hatfields and McCoys swoon-worthy contemporary romance set in a small beach town that reminds us that true love is worth fighting for. 

Noah Hebert recently inherited the Blue Pirogue Inn—along with all its problems. He needs money to keep his beloved childhood home from being shut down by his family’s longtime nemesis, Isaac Bergeron. So when Noah’s lawyer approaches him about an additional segment of his late grandfather’s will, it’s just in the nick of time. But even from beyond the grave, his grandfather is up to his usual games. In order to receive the last portion of inheritance, Noah must follow the clues. But there’s one condition… 

Magnolia Blossom Cafe manager Elisa Bergeron is shocked to discover an acquaintance from the local Puzzlers Club left her something in his will—and even more surprised to discover they are clues to a portion of his estate. When she learns she must work with introverted inn-owner Noah Hebert to solve the puzzle, she’s torn. Growing up in the middle of a multi-generational feud between their families, she’s been taught by her father Isaac that Heberts can’t be trusted. 

When these two exes must work together to save their future, will love get a second chance or will the longstanding family feud claim another generation?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Sunrise Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Lucie's Review: 

Heartwarming second chance romance, with a long running family feud, and a treasure hunt that forces Noah Herbert and Elisa Bergeron to work together, facing their past and their future. 

An engaging read with a full cast of characters in this small town community, I liked getting to know them in what I hope is a set up for them to have their stories told in future books. Noah is a quiet introvert, with a deep devotion to family, when he is needed he is right there in the thick of things. I admired his quiet and steadfast loyalty. Elisa loves a good puzzle and she knows how to handle a social situation, she is intrigued by the mystery that puts her back into Noah's orbit. 

An enjoyable read with great interaction and themes of faith, and family. Great tension and chemistry, I liked the opposites attract, second chance romance, with a dash of family feuding. Engaging story that drew me in, and I can't wait to read more in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

More Books in This Series

 


About the Author

Betsy St. Amant

Betsy St. Amant Haddox is the author of over twenty romance novels and novellas. She resides in north Louisiana with her hubby, two daughters, an impressive stash of coffee mugs, and one furry Schnauzer-toddler. Betsy has a B.A. in Communications and a deep-rooted passion for seeing women restored to truth. When she’s not composing her next book or trying to prove unicorns are real, Betsy can be found somewhere in the vicinity of an iced coffee. She writes frequently for www.ibelieve.com, a devotional site for women.

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


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Where I Found You and a $10 Sunrise Shop Gift Card!

Where I Found You JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 4, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 11, 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.


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

2.04.2025

How to Teach Kids Theology: Deep Truths for Growing Faith by Sam Luce and Hunter Williams // Review

My Review: 

Teaching theology can feel like a heavy responsibility, but this book encourages anyone in children's ministry to have confidence in sharing the simple yet deep truths of God and making the most of everyday moments. 

I loved the passion and relatability that the authors bring to this book, encouraging volunteers, parents, Sunday school teachers, and youth leaders, along the way. I especially liked how they stressed the importance of showing children an accurate picture of God and His attributes. We cannot teach children only about His love and neglect His holiness, goodness, mercy, justice, etc. 

Under 200 pages including the appendixes, this book is concise and cuts to the heart of the matter, with suggestions for resources as well. I think that my favorite part of this book was how it encourages parents, children's ministry workers and volunteers to not shy away from tough topics, but teach about who God is and give our kids a solid foundation to build their own theology on. 

Overall, a must-read for anyone working with children at church or at home. I found this book so encouraging, and before I was even finished I was recommending it to friends and talking over topics covered in the book. Now that I've finished it, I recommend it even more and want to read it again in the future!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author:

 Sam graduated from Portland Bible College in 1997 with a BA in Theology and has since dedicated over two decades to serving at Redeemer Church in Utica, New York. Beginning as a children's pastor, he has held various roles and currently serves as the Executive Pastor of Ministries. In 2021, Sam earned dual Master of Arts degrees from Knox Theological Seminary in Biblical and Theological Studies, as well as Christian and Classical Studies. An accomplished author and contributing editor to K! magazine, Sam has also chaired the INCM board and maintained a blog since 2007. He is a sought-after speaker at conferences and offers coaching, focusing on the transformative power of the Gospel and mentoring the next generation of disciple-makers. Sam and his wife celebrate 25 years of marriage and cherish their four children, aged 20, 17, 15, and 11. They currently reside in Upstate New York, where Sam enjoys reading, baseball, writing, and quality time with his family.


1.26.2025

Trained to Protect by Terri Reed // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Marine biologist Julia Hamilton accidently witnesses an attempted kidnapping while studying turtles on San Padre Island, and suddenly she is the target of a cartel, so she turns to her police chief brother and his best friend,  K-9 officer, Tarren McGregor, for help. 

A riveting adventure with compelling characters and an engaging plot, with a good balance of suspense, romance, depth and faith. I liked how Julia was surrounded by friends and family who were supportive of her, and concerned for her safety. Tarren is a great guy, with a multi-talented dog, Raz. I liked how Julia and Tarren learn to trust and depend on each other, as the stakes rise, into an action packed conclusion. 

Great character development and strong themes of faith throughout, I really enjoyed how Julia and Tarren were able to talk about their faith, and encourage each other. 

Overall, a fantastic read, well paced, and full of suspense, faith, and relationship building. Amazing characters and a great plot, highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

CSB Jesus Daily Bible // Review and Giveaway


Read through the Bible in a year—and keep Jesus at the center of each day.

The NEW CSB Jesus Daily Bible includes a 52-week, Christ-focused, guided reading plan that you can join at any point during the year. Day by day, you'll thematically study Scripture through a weekly introduction, helpful articles and infographics, and a weekly summary to help you understand Jesus’s central role from Genesis to Revelation. 

 Every page of God’s Word points to the bigger story of Jesus. And every day, the CSB Jesus Daily Bible will help you see how. Learn more at CSBJesusDailyBible.com



My Review: 

Read through the Bible in a year with the CSB Jesus Daily Bible, but unlike other yearly plans  it doesn't start on January 1st so you can jump in whenever you want!

The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) is a contemporary translation that strives for a balance between ease of reading as well as integrity to the original texts. The Jesus Daily edition is a great everyday Bible that is perfect for Bible in a year reading, as well as study material with charts, graphics, and articles. Each week section has an introduction and then a summary covering the passages read that week. I enjoyed reading through the charts that brought out themes pointing to Christ, filled with references in the Old and New Testament. 

This Bible also includes a collection of colorful maps, bolded text, and a concordance. I think this is a great Bible for daily reading whether you follow the plan or not, a great resource with a lot of great features inside great for people who are always on the go. 

Overall, a great Bible for someone who is looking for a little extra structure and guidance, but wants to study in a way that points to our Savior!

 #JesusDailyBibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @christianstandardbible @bhpub #jesusdailybible #dailybible #bibleinayear #christianstandardbible #csb #csbible #holmanbible #bhpub 

 Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 




 Order your copy of the CSB Jesus Daily Bible today! Learn more at CSBJesusDailyBible.com 

 Giveaway: 1 copy of CSB Jesus Daily Bible (Note: This is limited to US winners only).

1.20.2025

Between Borders // Movie Review and Giveaway



Watch this moving family film in theaters starting January 26! 

 In a crumbling Soviet Union, the Petrosyan family are outcasts—wherever they go. Armenian heritage marks them for discrimination both at home in Azerbaijan and in Russia. Based on a riveting true story of faith and hope set amidst great oppression … in the shadow of exile, hope became their home. 

 Buy tickets today to see Between Borders in theaters only January 26-28! 



My Review:

A gripping and emotional film, filled with hope, about a family struggling against the odds to give their family a safe place to call home, based on a true story. 

Ivan and Violetta Petrosyan are Armenians living in Azerbaijan in the 1980's, but as tensions rise they are forced to live in Russia, where they face discrimination and threats as they try to raise their young family. The film was very well done, with great writing, a talented cast, and a well paced plot that poignantly told the Petrosyan's story, evocatively telling their story. The film did an excellent job of showing the plight of a family caught in a bleak situation, as well as the tensions of living in the Soviet Union. I'd heard in passing about some of the discriminations that Armenians face in Russia, but had never really understood the conflict or been exposed to much information about this time period. 

A moving film, with strong themes of faith, family, and fighting for a sense of home. I genuinely enjoyed this thought provoking film, and found it to be incredibly well-done. It does a great job of realistically showing the struggles they faced, as well as the hope they found through faith. This film is also appropriate to view with your family, though likely not a fit for young kids who might not understand what is going on. 

Overall, a well made film that doesn't shy away from a bold message of faith, in this re-telling of an incredible true story of hope and home. Well worth making time to go and see!

 #BetweenBordersMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

 Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 




Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card (Note: This is limited to US winners only).