Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin // Review

My Review: 

In order to save her family during the German occupation of the Netherlands, Cilla van der Zee makes the only decision she can, agreeing to become a spy for Germany. She hopes to help the allies, but her plans are upended when she is discovered on the Scottish Shore by Lachlan Mackenzie a naval lieutenant who turns her over as a spy.  

It goes against every instinct that Lachlan has to use Cilla as a double agent, but as he sees her interact with grace to those around her, and her courage to risk it all, he can't help but be touched by this brave and gentle woman. Cilla loves her family dearly. I admired her courage to fight back, and to enjoy life even when others are hostile towards her. Cilla is genuine and warm, and I liked that her faith is very important to her. 

Engaging and well written, there is a lot going on and great tension throughout. I liked how they both challenged each other to think differently about what they would risk, as well as how they were both willing to sacrifice for those they loved. Great dialogue, filled with humor and wit. Strong themes of faith. Well researched, and gripping historical, highly recommend!

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

CSB Illustrator's Notetaking Bible // Review + Giveaway

Enhance your personal Bible study with the CSB Illustrator's Notetaking Bible. This uniquely crafted Bible features large, easy-to-read 9.5-point type in a single-column setting with wide journaling margins and line-art illustrations on every page spread. Including filigree designs, Scripture quotes, and other unique Scripture art alongside plenty of space for personal creativity and journaling, this Bible will inspire you to engage God’s Word in a fresh and exciting way. This beautiful Bible provides the per fect place for meaningful creativity and personalization, over time creating an incredible keepsake for your journey. ' Includes over 600 inspirational line-art illustrations, filigree designs, Scripture quotes, and other unique Scripture art, with space for personal creativity and journaling. 

 Order your copy of the CSB Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible, Large Print Edition today! 

  Learn more at Lifeway.com/CSB-illustrator-s-notetaking. 

  My Review: 

Beautiful CSB journaling Bible, great for study and meditation on God's word. 

Thoughtfully constructed with a beautiful cream LeatherTouch cover, and a Smythe sewn binding that helps it lay flat. The single column 9.5 size text is easy to read, and each page has a 2-inch margin for journaling, notetaking, sometimes it includes artwork that can be colored to go along with the Scripture. The artwork ranges from designs in nature, to verses, and other images. This is a great Bible for at home study, great for really taking your time and spending time in God's word with, as it is a little heavier, and with bigger dimensions than your average Bible, so admittedly not the easiest to have with you on the go or take with to church or study. 

It has all the basics and then some, with full-color maps, a one-year reading plan, Concordance, two ribbon markers, subject headings. This is a gorgeous Bible and would make an amazing gift for yourself or a loved one. I really enjoyed taking time to linger over the Word of God, while coloring the artwork in the margins, a quality set of colored pencils works the best in my experience.  It has so much room for recording answers to prayer, insights, and more, that are sure to make this an heirloom in the years to come! 

 #IllustratorsNotetakingMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @christianstandardbible @bhpub #illustratorsnotetaking #csb #holmanbibles 

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

 Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible Buy Link: Lifeway.com/CSB-illustrator-s-notetaking

 Giveaway: 1 copy of CSB Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible, Large Print Edition (Note: This is limited to US winners only).

Sunrise Reef by Irene Hannon // JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Sunrise Reef by Irene Hannon hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: Sunrise Reef 

Series: Hope Harbor #11 

Author: Irene Hannon 

Publisher: Revell 

Release Date: April 1, 2025 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Sometimes you have to look beneath the surface to find the treasure within

After years of searching, Bren Ryan has found her place in Hope Harbor. Working as a barista suits her to a T, as does the laid-back vibe of her adopted town. Nothing is lacking in her life--except romance. But that's okay. Men are a complication she doesn't need. 

Buttoned-up CPA Noah Ward isn't looking for love, either, when he arrives in town on a mission to convince his father to move closer to him. And he certainly doesn't intend to fall for the quirky, free-spirited woman who's taken up residence in his father's guest cottage. 

But when Noah finds himself sucked into Bren's quest to help a struggling teen, might the two of them discover there's more to each other than meets the eye? 

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

Lucie's Review: 

A heartwarming opposites-attract romance, set in the haven that is Hope Harbor. 

Bren Ryan is free-spirited and newly settled in Hope Harbor, working as a barista. When the place she is renting suffers an electrical fire, she finds a place to stay in a church member's guest house. Noah Ward is a strait-laced CPA, surprised to find someone staying at his father's normally empty guest house. Despite their differences they find themselves drawn to each other, finding common ground. I liked how they kept running into each other, and how they helped each other see a different side of things, but that they shared a solid faith. 

I loved returning to Hope Harbor, seeing many colorful and familiar faces. Heartwarming read, with an engaging romance, great interaction, and solid faith. Life doesn't always go according to our plans, but we can have confidence that things will work out in God's. Highly recommend!

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

More Books from this Series:

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About the Author

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 65 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. IreneHannon.com

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print set of the entire Hope Harbor series!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 16, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on April 23, 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.

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

Rescue on the Farm by Allie Pleiter // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Police officer Graner Emerson returns home to help sell the family farm, but to his surprise his mother and aunts are well on their way to turning the farm into an Animal Rescue! The sisters decide to do some matchmaking to help him be more amenable to their plans. Can the upbeat single mom, Meg Kittering be the one to help Grant see a new side to things? 

A heartwarming grumpy-sunshine romance, with adorable children, meddling aunts, and irresistible puppies! Meg is a hardworking single mom, who runs the breakfast and lunch diner in town, she has two adorable daughters, and a big heart for others despite her own full plate. There's a full cast of characters in this heartwarming romance, that has a full sense of community. The girls are so cute in their mission to turn Grant's frown upside down.  

Overall, a enjoyable read that brought a smile to my face. Strong themes of faith and family are a big part of the story. Well worth the read!

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

Murder in Appalachians by Susan Furlong // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Investigative reporter Emma Hayes is still reeling from her twin brother's death, when she makes a discovery that confirms that his death was no accident. ER doctor Logan Greer rescues Emma from the river, and finds himself swept into a dangerous chase that has life and death consequences. 

Plenty going on in this fast paced mystery, set in the haunting Appalachian Mountains, with twists and turns throughout that kept me guessing. I liked Logan's family, and how they welcomed Emma. I also admired how Logan's faith really leads his life. 

An exciting and well written read, with a lot going on, and strong themes of faith, and great elements of suspense and mystery. Very enjoyable read!

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

When Stars Light the Sky by Elizabeth Camden // Review

My Review:

A thrilling historical romance set in the high-stakes political world of the American Embassy in Germany just prior to WWI. 

Inga Klein is an enthusiastic and vibrant young woman working in New York, when she is invited by a family friend to join their team as a secretary at the US Embassy in Germany. German by heritage, she is well versed in the language, and quickly becomes an asset to the team with her zest for life, and willingness to tackle every task put before her. At times her cheery disposition puts her at odds with the somber and encyclopedia loving chief of staff, Benedict Kincaid. 

An opposites attract, marriage of convenience romance, set against the high-stakes world of foreign negotiations and politics. I loved the attention to detail and research. It was so fascinating to learn how so many processes changed over the years. 

Engaging read, romantic, with great character growth and interactions. I liked how they brought out the best in each other despite their differences. A full cast of characters bring this story to life. A lively read, with a riveting plot, and excellent will they or won't they tension throughout! Highly enjoyable!

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

Some Like It Scot by Pepper Basham // JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Some Like it Scot by Pepper Basham hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: Some Like it Scot 

Author: Pepper Basham 

Publisher: Thomas Nelson 

Release Date: April 8, 2025 

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance 

She lives her life on the fly. His heart is double-knotted to home. Can two different souls create a life together? 

Popular travel writer and podcaster Katie Campbell roams the world collecting other people's stories. She's built a career as "Miss Adventure," known for saying yes to anything new--country, food, or experience--and predictably finding those adventures taking a downward turn into misadventures. 

Offered the chance to explore her ancestral roots through a three-week Edwardian experience, Katie finds herself immersed in the beauty and eccentricity of Scotland. In her period attire, with traditional foods and activities, the opportunities for misadventures are endless, especially with the presence of a maniacal macaw, a jealous co-worker, and an all-too-surly Scotsman. 

Reclusive and protective Graeme MacKerrow doesn't venture far from his island home. A stoic Scotsman, Graeme's comfort zone has always been family, and after his sister's death, he's even more determined to save the MacKerrow ancestral home and keep those he loves close. The sudden intrusion of a six-foot-one American lass, famous for her traveling misfortunes, was far from his plan. 

As this world of folklore, community, and woodworkers-in-kilts tempts Katie to discover her own story, could this one grand series of misadventures lead her directly to where she belongs? And would a settled-in-Scot ever risk loosening his grip on what's familiar to allow a wanderlust writer a home in his heart? How could their very different worlds share the same page of life's story when "home" is in two very different places? But maybe home--and the future--isn't quite what either one imagined it would be. Maybe home is less about a place . . . and more about a person. 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Faith Gateway | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook |  Bookshop

My Review: Upbeat rom-com, set in the rolling hills of Scotland, with great situational comedy, plenty of heart, and touches of faith. 

Katie Campbell is a "Miss Adventure"-ing travel writer, sent on assignment to check out a Edwardian living experience in the stunning countryside of Scotland. Used to never staying one place too long, Katie doesn't expect Scotland to slowly carve its way into her heart. She is a talented writer, and often feels out of place or in the way. I admired Graeme as a devoted son and father-figure, he also has many creative talents of his own. Gruff on the outside, he has a genuine heart of gold. 

Heartwarming, filled with plenty of swoon-worthy moments, wit, and situational humor. An irresistible read, highly enjoyable, with a full cast of wonderful characters. I definitely raced through this one far faster than I wanted (I had plans to savor it), but I was hooked. The Scottish accents, and great interactions pulled me in. A wonderful read from beginning to end! 

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

Also Available:

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About the Author

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Writing both historical and contemporary novels, she loves to incorporate her native Appalachian culture and/or her unabashed adoration of the UK into her stories. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC, where she is the wife of a fantastic pastor, the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Some Like it Scot and hairy coo themed gift box!

(1) additional winner will receive a print copy of Some Like it Scot!

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

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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

Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics by Kathy Dixon Dye // JustRead

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics by Kathy Dixon Dye, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics
Author: Kathy Dixon Dye
Publisher: Kit Kat Press
Release Date: April 14, 2024
Genre: children's picture book fiction

In a world filled with gadgets and gizmos, where screens glow brighter than starry nights, one extraordinary grandmother, Kit Kat, is on a mission to ignite the spark of imagination in her beloved grandchildren. Join author Kathy Dye in this heartwarming children's book as she unveils the enchanting world of Kit Kat Camp, a delightful tale of love, laughter, and the magic of childhood. 

With a twinkle in her eye and a treasure trove of wisdom, Kit Kat embarks on a grand adventure to teach her grandchildren a timeless lesson: "No Electronics." She knows that the power to dream, create, and explore lies within their own minds, waiting to be set free. Through the pages of this captivating story, Kit Kat lovingly guides her young charges on a journey of discovery, encouraging them to trade screens for skies filled with possibilities. 

In Kit Kat Camp, readers of all ages will be transported to a world where imagination knows no bounds. Kathy Dye, a retired teacher and devoted grandmother, weaves a charming narrative that not only entertains but also inspires. As Kit Kat and her grandchildren embark on whimsical escapades, young minds will be fueled with the boundless energy of creativity, reminding us all that the greatest adventures can be found within the depths of our own imaginations. 

This heartwarming tale is a call to action for grandparents, parents, and children alike, reminding us of the profound importance of nurturing the imaginative spirit within our little ones. Kit Kat Camp is the first installment in what promises to be an enchanting series of stories, each brimming with life lessons and the magic of childhood. 

Join Kit Kat and her cherished grandchildren on a journey to a world where imagination reigns supreme, and where the bonds of family grow stronger through the power of storytelling. Discover a world where laughter is contagious, creativity knows no limits, and love is the guiding star. Kit Kat Camp is the perfect reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones we create in our minds. 

Embark on a magical adventure with Kit Kat, and let Kit Kat Camp inspire your family to unplug, dream big, and cherish the moments that matter most. 

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

My Review: 

A vibrant picture book about the power of unplugging and using your imagination. 

A young girl is excited to visit her grandmother "Kit Kat" and while they are there, Kit Kat encourages the youngster to turn off their electronics and find a more organic kind of fun, by using their imaginations! And oh, the adventures they have! The illustrations are colorful and appealing to children, with a slight Japanese art influence. 

Overall, this is a fun, upbeat picture book. Great as a read aloud, and I liked how it encourages finding fun the old-fashioned way and putting down the screens. Good clean fun, and positive family relationships!

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

Also Available

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About the Author

Kathy Dye, a retired elementary school teacher with a Master's in Education, knows the secret to captivating young minds. Her years of nurturing creativity in her students kindled a fervor for storytelling. Drawing from her rich experience as a teacher, mother, and grandmother, Kathy crafts enchanting tales that resonate with children of all ages. With every word she writes, she invites readers on a journey into a world of imagination, wonder, and boundless curiosity. Kathy's books are more than stories; they're cherished moments of shared joy and learning. Explore her enchanting tales and let your imagination soar!

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, a paperback copy of Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics, and the related activity book!

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics, and the related activity book!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 1, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 8, 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.

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

An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus // Justread

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: An Unexpected Companion 

Series: K-9 Companions #31, Legacy Ranch #1 

Author: Mindy Obenhaus 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: April 1, 2025 

Genre: Contemporary Romance 

With his dog by his side… Is a second chance within reach? 

After losing his family and his leg in a car crash, widower Dirk Matthews dedicates his solitary life to woodworking and his mobility service dog, Molly. That is, until a troubled kid steals from his truck. Desperate to reach her grieving oldest son, widow Tessa Wagner agrees to have the boy help Dirk work on her family’s ranch. Only she doesn’t expect her own connection with the carpenter. Soon they’re feeling more than the shared loss of loved ones. But will past heartbreak stand in the way of their future? 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

Lucie's Review: 

Two hurting hearts find unexpected understanding and healing, and perhaps even love...

Dirk Matthews has been living a quieter life after tragedy took his family and his leg, but he still stays busy remodeling older locations into something new and innovative with his mobility do by his side. When a boy steals from him, he works out a deal with the boy's mother to have him work with him to make it up. 

A touching story, with great relationship building, themes of family ties and legacy. Dirk is great with Tessa's boys, and they love his dog, Molly. Dirk and Tessa makes a great team, they both have lived through great loss, and I liked how they both had great support systems in their families. 

Overall, a heartwarming read, with compelling characters. A great introduction to a full cast of wonderful characters that I hope each have their own story in the works. A touching story of new beginnings, faith, family and love. Highly enjoyable and satisfying read.

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

Also Available:

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About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching heartwarming romance movies.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of An Unexpected Companion and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 2, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on April 9, 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.

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

The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass by Katie Powner // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming story of family, faith, and find where you belong. 

Pete Ryman has returned to Sleeping Grass, MT after many years of rambling, and has found a routine of sorts with his pig, Pearl, and best friend Windy Ray. Pete is an unassuming man, his life follows a repeating weekly routine, but he makes the most of the treasures he finds along the way. His life is upended when his estranged sister shows up with her eleven year old son in tow. 

Ms. Powner captures the humanity in the ups and downs, in the humor and the heartaches. This is a books that grabbed hold of me quickly, drawing me in with the people who all held the promise of being more than they appeared. I wasn't disappointed. This is a hopeful read, with captivating characters that are realistic, but just a smidge larger than life, but believable in their everyday humanity. I liked how Pete forms a bond with Braedon, and Windy Ray is quite the character, a man of wisdom and whimsy. My heart went out to Wilma, as she struggles with a mountain of guilt and debt, but I liked how she wanted to still help Pete and his sister. 

Overall, a read that takes you along with the characters, with deceptively disguised emotional depth, with a solid message of family, friendship and faith. This is my second read from Katie Powner, and it won't be the last. Well worth the read!

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