The Stranger at the Door By Henry O Arnold + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Stranger at the Door by Henry O. Arnold, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! This story sounds very intriguing! Check out the excerpt below & be sure to enter the giveaway!

About the Book

Title: The Stranger at the Door
Series: The Urban Chronicles #2
Author: Henry O. Arnold
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink
Release Date: March 5, 2025
Genre: Christian Thriller

When a beat-up van screeches to a stop in front of The Mercy Seat church late one night and a young woman leaps out in an effort to escape her captors, Maxwell Crane and his family jump to her rescue. But is this desperate girl the innocent victim she appears to be? 

The family’s act of kindness leads to dire consequences. When the young woman and the Crane sisters are abducted by members of a ruthless cartel out for revenge, Maxwell is yanked into yet another harsh reality of life in Hell’s Canyon. 

There are no good options. All strategies for rescue could exact a terrible price. Still haunted by the tragedy he caused the last time he took justice into his own hands, Maxwell can only cast his broken soul upon the mercy of God. He would rush into the gates of hell to save his daughters, but will he get there in time?  

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

More In This Series

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Book Excerpt

Maxwell had been thrown into a dark pit, one he had dug himself, one pregnant with emptiness, one so deep he felt it impossible to climb out. He was lost yet still present in the immediate world. He could recognize faces around him and acknowledge when they spoke, but he could not speak. He could not think of any coherent words to offer in response. He could only discern the sound of panic in other voices, the sound of grief in those around him, the sound of his own guttural drone.

In truth, it was his daughters that were truly lost. But how? They had been right there, right in front of him, within arm’s reach, within his grasp, and yet his hands and fingers could not gain purchase. He envisioned the girls reaching toward him, but he could not take hold of an arm, a shoulder, anything, and pull them to safety.

About the Author

Mr. Arnold's career as an actor/author spans over five decades with multiple stage and film credits. He has recorded over one hundred audiobooks and is the author of the Urban Chronicles suspense series and the multi-volume biblical/historical fiction series entitled The Song of Prophets and Kings (available in all formats wherever books are sold). When not writing, he can be found hiking on a trail somewhere in the world. He and his lovely wife Kay have two beautiful daughters, married to two handsome men, with three above-average grandchildren.

Connect with Mr. Arnold by visiting henryoarnold.com to follow him on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of The Stranger at the Door & $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 17, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 24, 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!

Written in Secret By Crystal Caudill + GIVE AWAY

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Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Written in Secret by Crystal Caudill hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I'm SO excited to dive into this story. I loved Crystal's first series and this one sounds just as wonderful. I received the book as part of the tour. Check out the book excerpt below!

About the Book

 

Title: Written in Secret 

Series: The Art of Love and Danger #1 

Author: Crystal Caudill 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: March 11, 2025 

Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense Romance 

What happens when fiction becomes reality? In the corruption-infested Queen City, danger lurks in every shadow, but Lydia Pelton refuses to stay silent. She writes under a pseudonym, E. A. Dupin, crafting crime novels to exact justice and right the wrongs she sees in society. When a serial killer decides to be the sword to her pen, Lydia is confronted with the consequences of her words. Four men are dead, and the city blames her. 

With murders on the rise, Officer Abraham Hall's only lead is Lydia's fiction, and he is thrust into an investigation with the "Killer Queen of Romance." Despite his misgivings about the woman, he realizes that even with his reputation for catching elusive criminals, he needs her help. But his unexpected attraction to Lydia proves as difficult to manage as the woman herself. 

As the mystery unfolds, Abraham and Lydia race to rewrite the ending, not only for Cincinnati's citizens, but for their own hearts too.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

Also Available

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Book Excerpt

“I could make you the hero of my next romance novel if that’s not threat enough. Oh! And I’ll

make the heroine a criminal of the worst sort."

Abraham folded his arms. “I thought you weren’t going to use this case as story fodder."

“If you’re insinuating that I’m casting myself as the heroine, you are mistaken. I’d make a better

villain with what I put my characters through. That being said, I think it best if I take my leave,

Abraham.” Her eyes sparkled in a way that made him nervous. “I’ve just had the most brilliant

idea for an actual story.”

“I’m afraid to ask.”

“You should be.” As she rose from her seat, her demeanor sobered.

“Thank you. You’ve given me hope that I’m not beyond redemption.”

“All I’ve agreed to do is be your friend.”

“‘Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.’ You have already

proven a greater friend than many by speaking truth even when it was not welcomed.”

She nodded to take her leave, and all Abraham could do was watch her walk out the parlor door

to the kitchen. He wasn’t sure what had just happened, but he was certain this case had just taken

an interesting turn.

About the Author

Crystal Caudill is the Christy Award–winning author of “dangerously good romance,” including the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Caudill can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio.

Connect with Crystal by visiting crystalcaudill.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 Written in Secrets 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 March 12, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 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.

Enter Giveaway

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

The Nature Of Love By Toni Shiloh

the Nature of Love

by Toni Shiloh

Publisher: Bethany House

Series: Love in the Spotlight

ISBN: 9780764241529

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

Summary:

A doctor feeling fractured 

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

A wildlife enthusiast ready for more 

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

Two hearts destined by nature 

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

My Review:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go get this book NOW!

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

About the Author:

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

The Tire Swing By Crystal Walton

The Tire Swing

by Crystal Walton

Publisher: Impact Editions, LLC

Series: Love in Willow Creek

ISBN: 978-1732816244

Isn't it so fun to find a new author to enjoy? That happened recently thanks to my friend and co-worker Carrie! She suggested Crystal reach out to me to see if I'd like to review her new release  The Tire Swing, which publishes February 27th. It's the first book in her Love in Willow Creek series. She sent me the ebook ARC for review.

Summary:

When an unexpected call reignites the past, a mysterious estate plan sends two wandering hearts down a second chance it’ll take every ounce of faith to face.

Returning to the small town Ellie Barrett lost her heart to has her stomach in knots. What was Aunt Bev thinking, naming her as the executor of her estate? At the very least, she could’ve left Ellie instructions on how to stop the bank from seizing her home. But when a crazy chase for answers gets tangled up in memories shared with the boy she’s still in love with, there’s no way to dig herself out of the mess Aunt Bev left her without confronting the one she’s still trying to outrun.

Cole Patterson would do anything to get out of helping the one girl capable of flipping his plans upside down. He’s already torn enough over leaving Willow Creek to honor his grandpa without getting thrown into a project tying him and Ellie to the town that brought them together. Then again, when does life play fair? If fighting to keep Ms. Bev’s house doesn’t break the rest of him first, fighting for the girl he still wants to share it with could leave nothing left.

When every failed effort backs them against the clock, and attacks in town threaten to derail their plans, Cole and Ellie must count the cost of fighting to protect a legacy while facing the risk of losing their hearts.

My Review:

This was such a sweet story! It's my first by this author and I can't wait for her next book.

Ellie arrives to her aunt's place after her aunt has passed and it's easy to feel how difficult it is for her... pretty much from the start. Running into her old flame, Cole, right away doesn't help matters. There are lots of old memories in this small town story... for both of them.

I liked Ellie. Like her, I'm curious as to why her mother and aunt Bev had a falling out. And what happened with Ellie and Cole? Thankfully, that is answered in the story. Then there's Cole. Goodness, what a sweet guy who has lost so much. But this town has come around him and loved on him. It's one of the elements I adore in small town stories.

Speaking of small towns, the additional side characters are so wonderful and pivotal to the story. Even Sam, who no one is a fan of. Oh, and speaking of side characters... this one has a horse, a dog, and some cats that make the story entertaining!

I enjoyed watching Ellie and Cole work through not only their individual issues, but their "we used to have something" issues. It's easy to see how not communicating can cause issues, but on the other hand, it was so tender how they wanted to protect each other. 

Sometimes our family members do things that we just don't understand, whether it's out of quirkiness or devotion (oftentimes both involve love), and like Cole & Ellie, they just have to learn how to accept it.

There's a cliffhanger at the end that has me excited for book two!

About the Author:

Crystal received her bachelor of arts from Messiah College in PA, married her exact opposite in upstate NY, and earned her master of arts from Regent University in VA, where she currently resides with her husband and two sons.

She writes small-town inspirational romances with humor, broken characters, and emotional plots full of grace and hope. Her Home In You series includes Write Me Home, a RONE Award finalist, and Begin Again, a Readers' Favorite Gold Award winner. When her hands aren’t full with her little blue-eyed heroes, she's delving into the wonder of words, supporting her green tea habit, or laughing over movie quotes with her husband.

Anything By Kristina Welch Review + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Anything by Kristina Welch, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! If you're a fan of YA/NA this is a story right up your alley! I was sent the audiobook for this tour. Check out my review below as well as an excerpt.

About the Book

Title: Anything: A Romance for Jesus Freaks
Series: Mayberry University Series #1
Author: Kristina Welch
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: February 1, 2025
Genre: Christian YA Romance

​​Two guarded hearts.
He’s breaking down walls and she’s building them higher
A match made in Heaven, or a blueprint for disaster? 

After the fiery downward spiral of senior year, Kit Talbot crash-lands on a quirky college campus where traditions rule and dorm floors act more like family. It’s just weird enough to keep her mind off the wreckage she’s leaving behind. 

Enter Levi Whitaker, known as the swooniest guy on campus. Magnetic, confident, and far too much like the ex who sent her life into that PTSD-tainted nosedive. Levi seems to be everywhere, focused on her like she’s the only girl in the world—even indulging her sugar addiction with delivered treats. But Kit’s self-preservation instincts are sharper than ever, and she deflects him like Wonder Woman blocking bullets. 

That is, until Levi’s quiet faith and humble apology start to break down Kit’s defenses. He loves Jesus in the dreamiest way, looks like wow, and ... somehow triggers the flashbacks she fights so hard to avoid. Every minute with him is a risk she isn’t sure she should take. Should she protect them both from the chaos of her life or learn a bravery that feels irresponsible? 

As Kit fights to keep her life safe and manageable, she leans into her faith, clinging to the Bible verses God whispers to her heart. Clearly, he’s up to something, but the healing she prays for isn’t happening the way she wants.  

Why is God silent on the prayer she needs most?  

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

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Excerpt

Haymitch interrupts my thoughts. “How ’bout you, Jeeves? You been here two years. What’s  your take on Texas?” 

“I think the barbecue here is the best I’ve ever had,” Levi says. 

“Preach,” Austin says. 

“The brisket is some’n else,” Haymitch agrees. “Wish I could introduce you to ‘Bama White  Sauce though.” 

“Let’s make it happen.” Levi says. 

“Christmas break? Maybe we can drag Samwise away from his family for a couple o’ days.” “If you can convince Janie,” Austin says. 

“Janie?” Sophie asks. 

“My baby sister.” 

“He don’t like tellin’ his sister no,” Haymitch says to us. 

“Aw,” Sophie says to Austin. “You’re a softie.” 

“She’s, what, seventeen now?” Haymitch asks. 

“Nearly. She’s still a baby.” Austin sends a look to Haymitch, who raises his hands in  innocence. 

“Janie won’t like it,” Levi says to us, “but convincing her might be within our power.” “You could sell a megaphone to a mime, Jeeves,” Austin says. 

Haymitch sputters a laugh.  

“We’ve hung out with her at The Farm many times,” Levi explains. 

“It’s not actually a farm,” Austin says to us.

“It’ll always be The Farm,” Levi says. 

Every time he speaks, his smooth voice is a magnet pulling me back, forcing my gaze to him.  Each time, it’s a zap of pleasure I can’t afford. Sophie dives in headfirst, but I can’t. Not after  Aiden. No matter how kind or gentle Levi seems, I have to make better choices this time. Desperate for a distraction, I turn to Mia. “How are your sisters?” 

Maybe she can anchor me back to solid ground.

My Review

Overall, I really enjoyed the story. The author narrated the book, which I think helped it to flow well since she knows the story inside and out. Sometimes it was hard to know who was talking because her voice didn't change much with the characters.

We get to know Kit who has just started college. We know immediately that something awful has happened in her past because of her reaction to Levi, one of the most popular guys on their college campus. Also, he sets his eyes on Kit, the one girl who has no interest.

You immediately feel for Kit. The author brings out her trauma and trauma response in an authentic way. Now, I know we all react to events differently, but when we find out what happened, I felt like Kit's reaction is more than I would've expected for the entirety of the story. Overall, I think the author validates how any victim might feel.

Levi was easy to hold at arm's length because I think most popular guys at college get a bad wrap. You know the ones: rich, handsome, athletic, etc. Sadly, that's not who he is inside, but he had no control over how God designed him nor the family he was born into. He was ready to break out of that family mold, though.

Levi, though not knowing why Kit behaved the way he did, continued to gently pursue her. You could tell Kit was in a mental battle. She wanted to be "normal" and just move on with life instead of freaking out at the sound of a car door slamming shut or a guy wanting to hold her hand. Because of the way her friends reacted in high school, the last thing she was going to do was spill the tea with her new college friends.

With Levi's patience and Kit continuing to try and try and try to move forward they begin to make some headway. God is moving, but it's a long haul. There was a lot of Scripture and discussions of faith in the story, which I really cheered on because it was so great!

I'm looking forward to the next book in the series because this one really grabbed my attention and held it!

About the Author

Photo by Brooke Ashlee Photography

When Kristina Welch isn't adventuring around the world with her husband and three little blondies, she's home near Denver, Colorado. She thrives on date nights, forest hikes, and peanut butter cookies. Her days include half-homeschooling her kids, thrifting for treasures, regretting DIY home projects, and babbling to Jesus wherever she is.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a Book Hugger’s Bundle of leather bookmarks, Christian stickers, book tabs, reading light, signed copy of Anything, and a $25 B&N gift card!

(1) winner will receive a College Life Bundle of a notebook, pens, sticky notes, popcorn, mug, signed copy of Anything, and a $20 Starbucks gift card!

(1) winner will receive a Devo Time Bundle of a Bible, highlighters, book tabs, tea lights, signed copy of Anything, and a $25 Etsy gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 24, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 3, 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!

Duets By Jordan Saez + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Duets by Jordan Saez, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! This sounds like such a great story for ya readers!

About the Book

Title: Duets
Series: Honeybrook High (prequel novella)
Author: Jordan Saez
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: February 2025
Genre: Christian YA Fiction

No one gets me at all, except for Hester. And she’s not even real. She’s a woman from the 1800s, but she totally understands what it’s like to hide love. So, she’d understand why hiding text messages is super important. But, since my dad became a Christian and all, I have to be super careful. But my parents are hiding things too, like why my mom is riding the struggle bus while she’s expecting my baby brother or why dad is talking to the other woman at the office.  

GET A COPY OF THIS FREE NOVELLA: sign up for the author's newsletter  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Everand | Amazon | AppleBooks

More Books In This Series

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Guest Post

First, thank you so much for hosting me on the blog!! I’m so grateful. I would love for teen girls to walk away from reading Duets knowing that they are seen and loved. They are seen by God and loved by Him. There’s no need to search for attention or keep secrets the way Candy does in the story because everything that goes on in the dark comes out in the light, as Proverbs says.

Candy doesn’t necessarily adopt this feeling immediately because she’s human. She has a lot of feelings to figure out and I want girls to understand that God does give us grace, but we need to put our trust in Him.

The second POV character, Leslie, leans into that a little bit more because she also keeps hiding secrets, even as an adult and she struggles to trust God and His timing. Leslie’s POV exists to keep Candy innocent, but take a “screenshot” of what happens down the road when secrets and mistakes catch up to you. That’s such a loaded sentence because Leslie’s POV continues throughout the series and even though it seems as though Candy learned this lesson about keeping terrible secrets, her grandfather, grandmother, and even Leslie didn’t!

I would also want girls to know that moms and dads aren’t “supposed” to share everything. They are the grownups. In Leslie’s POV, Rob “sees” Leslie. He knows she’s struggling and he suggests that Candy learn more about their family history because of the circumstances. And I would hope that girls realize that Mom is a person too and doing life can be hard for her sometimes as well! I’d want girls to read Duets and grow closer to God and their families after reading this. Know that it's okay to ask questions, but be respectful. Stay curious, because there could be very interesting things to discover right under your nose! However, don’t be the one to hide the dark and dangerous. Candy definitely learned that she wanted true love when she grew up and didn’t want to keep anymore secrets, on her phone, computer, or anywhere else!

About the Author

Jordan Saez is a God-lover, author, and avid reader. She thinks that chocolate should totally be considered healthy! When she's not writing stories, you can find her watching movies with her family (and eating chocolate) or baking homemade goodies (with chocolate!)

Connect with Jordan by signing up for her newsletter or following her on Instagram or TikTok.

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Tour Giveaway

(5) winners will receive a $10 gift card to their choice of either Amazon or Spotify!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 18, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 25, 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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Grandma Ruth Doesn’t Go To Funerals by Sharon Mondragon + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Grandma Ruth Doesn’t Go To Funerals by Sharon Mondragon hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! If you haven't read Sharon's book, you are MISSING out! I received the book for the social portion of this tour. DON'T miss the excerpt below. It'll grab you and make you want to read the book asap. You've been warned! lol

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 & Noble | Christianbook

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Book Excerpt

“Goodness, Charlotte,” Mrs. Morgan said, losing patience. “He was eighty-five years old and not in the best of health. Surely you weren’t surprised.”

“No.” Mrs. Harrington sniffed into the tissue Mrs. Fogarty pressed into her hand. “I’ve known for weeks it was coming. I just wish I knew what he meant. His last words to me, his very last words, were—” Her voice caught. I saw her fight to gain enough control to get the words out. At last, she sat up straighter, took a large swallow from the glass of chardonnay she held in her other hand, and said, “His last words were ‘I loved you more than Millie.’” She gripped her glass so tightly I thought it might shatter. “Who’s Millie? I never knew he loved anybody named Millie. I thought I was the only one he ever loved. How could he say something like that and then just up and die without explaining?”

How indeed, I thought. Sure, he’d say he loved her more than Millie, but to even mention another woman in his dying breath was just plain . . . well, I told you he was mean.

About the Author

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.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Grandma Ruth Doesn’t Go To Funerals 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 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.

Enter Giveaway

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

Right Before Their Eyes by Carrie Walker - GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Right Before Their Eyes by Carrie Walker, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! How sweet does this cover look? It also sounds really good!

About the Book

Title: Right Before Their Eyes
Series: Faith Endures #2
Author: Carrie Walker
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink
Release Date: February 5, 2025
Genre: Romantic Women's Fiction

Sometimes the love you need most looks different than you imagined. 

Clare Martin thought nothing of agreeing to live with her dementia-ridden grandmother when her parents left on mission. Balancing that with her job as a social worker and the expectations of her career-driven boyfriend proved doable—until Grandma started a house fire. 

Mason Hughes has loved Clare for years, but the time was never right to tell her and now she’s dating someone else, fixing Mason firmly in the friend zone. He’s working to be a pediatric neurologist, a dream inspired by a special boy with a terminal brain condition and must choose a medical school. Finances are so tight he’s forced to consider a program across the country, a troubling fact he’s kept secret. 

Lucia Roberts, a seventeen-year-old on Clare’s caseload, loses her foster home and is placed in an unwelcoming group home. At every turn she’s met with rejection and becomes desperate for any proof she has value—enough to make choices that could affect the rest of her life. 

When Grandma Dottie and Lucia's paths take a dangerous turn, Clare frantically tries to save them. As their lives knit together, will they find the love that’s right before their eyes?  

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

More Books In This Series

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Book Excerpt

Stupid. She was stupid to get attached when she knew she wouldn’t stay.

Lucia lifted the hem of her T-shirt to her nose and inhaled lavender, all that remained of Mrs. Wilkens’s last hurried hug. As the car drove away from the Wilkens’s—her most recent “Mom and Dad,”—she steeled herself against another loss.

She bit her lip and stared at the house until the car turned a corner and stole the comfortable brick ranch from view. The para-medics had whisked her out of the way so fast she barely got to say goodbye. 

A lump clogged her throat. Mr. Wilkens.

Would she ever know if he was okay?

Would anyone care enough to tell her?

Miss Martin reached across Lucia’s garbage bag of belongings and brushed her arm. “Honey, Mrs. Wilkens feels awful. They intended to give me another month to find you a different foster home.”

Lucia glanced at her social worker’s glassy eyes. She’d come here during her time off. “It’s not your fault, Miss Martin.” She dropped her chin to her chest. “Sorry to interrupt your evening. I—”

“Don’t you dare apologize.” Miss Martin lifted her hand from the steering wheel, waving away the idea. “This is why I gave you my number. And, honey, call me Clare. This is such a shock. They were in good health, even at their age.”

Waves of nausea rose as Lucia replayed the last few hours. “Everything was fine. Then Mr. Wilkens said he couldn’t see right. His skin got so pale . . . his words slurred, half of his face drooped, and he stumbled . . .”

The screaming.

The frantic calls.

I’m so sorry, sweetie. It wasn’t supposed to happen like this.

About the Author

Carrie Walker is an award-winning author who lives in Michigan with her husband and seven children. As an avid reader, she pens what she loves to read, stories that bring hope to a hurting world. Besides writing, Carrie enjoys board games, time with family and counting down the days ’til Christmas.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of Right Before Their Eyes as well as a $20 Amazon gift card!

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

Midnight On The Scottish Shore By Sarah Sundin

Midnight on the Scottish Shore

by Sarah Sundin

Publisher: Revell

ISBN: 9780800741860

I'm a huge HUGE fan of Sarah Sundin! I will devour every book of hers I can get my hands on. I couldn't wait to read Midnight on the Scottish Shore! Let me tell you, I was completely invested. Thanks to the author and Revell for sending me the book for review!

Summary:

In a time of war, danger lurks beneath the water--and in the depths of the human heart

As the German war machine devours the Netherlands, the only way Cilla van der Zee can survive the occupation is to do the unthinkable--train to become a spy for the Nazis. Once dispatched to Britain, she plans to abandon her mission and instead aid the Allies. But her scheme is thwarted when naval officer Lt. Lachlan Mackenzie finds her along the Scottish shore and turns her in to be executed.

Yet perhaps she is more useful alive than dead. British intelligence employs her to radio misleading messages to Germany from the lighthouse at Dunnet Head in Scotland--messages filled with naval intelligence Lachlan must provide. If the war is to be won, Lachlan and Cilla must work together. But how can he trust a woman who arrived on his shores as a tool of the enemy--a woman certain to betray both him and the Allied cause?

My Review:

Midnight on the Scottish Shore is about Cilla van der Zee, cousin to Aleida from Embers in the London Sky. Cilla escapes the Netherlands, hoping to aid the Allies, but she's captured and believed to be a spy for Germany. The Allies decide to use her in their secret Double Cross unit of M15! Cilla is willing, but the man who captures her is also the one who has to aid her as part of the scheme.

I loved Cilla! LOVED her! She takes lemons and makes lemonade. While the lighthouse becomes her prison, she also learns to find freedom in it. It doesn't come quickly or easily. And let's just say Lachlan Mackenzie doesn't make it very enjoyable. I mean, while Cilla is lovely, she's also a spy for Germany (repeated over and over in Lachlan's mind)!

Lachlan, for his part, wants to do his duty to his country, but his past is always looming over him thanks to his younger, wayward brother, Neil. Lachlan toes the line and is very black & white. He's also honorable, loyal, and trustworthy. What woman would fall for the fuddy-duddy?

I knew this was going to be a book I didn't want to put down! There's so much to talk about in regards to it. Cilla used humor in hard circumstances, and she was sharp as a tack! Extending forgiveness to someone who has hurt you makes you vulnerable. Earning trust can seem impossible, but it is worthwhile. All of the ways military and gov't people have to come up with plausible ways to misdirect the enemy and the way it's done with Yardley, Cilla, and Lachlan is masterful. 

I'll admit that I can't get enough of Sarah Sundin's stories! They're so well written and keep me riveted on every page! I'm already ready for her next book... no pressure, Sarah!

About the Author:

Sarah Sundin is the bestselling author of When Twilight Breaks, Until Leaves Fall in Paris, The Sound of Light, Embers in the London Sky, and the popular WWII series Sunrise at Normandy, among others. She is a Christy Award winner and a Carol Award winner, and her novels have received starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly. Sarah lives in Southern California. Visit SarahSundin.com for more information.

Misgivings By Anne Gibson + GIVE AWAY

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Misgivings by Anne Gibson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Misgivings
Author: Anne Gibson
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: September 2, 2024
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Desperate to avoid the turmoil that now engulfs her, Dee would do anything for a chance to turn back time. Wracked with regret and paralyzed by fear, she is forced to hide halfway across the world, all in a bid to safeguard the one person she holds most dear. If only she could undo the past and prevent this disastrous situation from ever unfolding. 

After waiting five long years, Luke thought he was finally making progress in his relationship with Dee. But just as she begins to open up and trust him, she suddenly vanishes, leaving him bewildered and determined to uncover the truth behind her sudden disappearance.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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Guest Post

Deciding what topics you were going to cover in your first book & how much detail to put

in or leave out. They're pretty heavy topics.

There are some heavy topics in my book. I remember sitting in a university class and hearing a statistic that 1 in 4 women had suffered from some form of abuse. I looked at all the women in my class, counted 1-2-3-4, and imagined every fourth woman being a victim of abuse. No one “looked” abused, but how would I know? Every time I was in the grocery store, there was a chance that an abuse victim was in my midst. Even in my church, there was the likelihood that someone sitting near me was a victim of abuse. Yet, no one was talking about it. This was years ago, and now the statistic is closer to 1 in 3 women. I wanted to write a character that women could silently identify with: a character who suffered and struggled, a character who found hope despite the odds being against her, and a character who found a way to trust Christ after someone broke their trust. Even more importantly, I wanted to write a story about a God who cares, a God who is in control, and a God who saves.

As for the events that happened in Colombia, many of the details came from stories my landlady shared with me (who had immigrated from Colombia). I took some of her details and then let my imagination run wild.

The process of becoming self-published.

I wrote Misgivings 15 years ago. I was pregnant with my first child and put on bed rest. I always wanted to be a writer and I had hoped bed rest was God’s way of saying, “The time is now.” After my baby was born, I submitted my manuscript and started the long, grueling game of waiting for rejections. I was very sick with my second pregnancy and took a break. After baby #2 was born I was able to look at my manuscript with fresh eyes (it sat for over a year). I edited it, started sending it to agents, and resumed the waiting game. Then baby #3 came and I pressed pause, and baby #4 came and writing was put aside.

Now my eldest is 15 and my kids are more independent. I pulled out my manuscript this summer thinking it would be fun to read. I ended up editing it again and decided it was time to do something with it. Since it sat for 15 years, I didn’t want to wait any longer. Rather than having it sit for years as I looked for an agent, I decided to try self-publishing, which is totally different than it was 15 years ago.

This journey has been full of surprises! I loved solving the puzzle of formatting. I enjoyed creating the cover and exercising the crafty side of my brain that also was neglected when the children were little. I built a website, which was not fun at all, but I am proud to say I endured and conquered! The advertising, social media, and anything with an algorithm is still overwhelming. I’d rather write, but it has been validating learning new skills. The most fun part has been discovering the world of Bookstagram. I wasn’t a social media person before, but I would have been if I knew there were so many fantastic people sharing such wonderful books!

About the Author

Award-winning author Anne Gibson is blessed to call the stunning Canadian Rockies home. When she isn't penning her stories, she relishes time in nature—hiking, paddling, and basking in the sun at the beach alongside her family and beloved furball. A true romantic at heart, Anne often finds herself curled up with an engaging book, dreaming up her own captivating love stories.

Connect with Anne by visiting authorannegibson.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 Misgivings as well as a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 3, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 10, 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/CAN 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 Indigo Heiress By Laura Frantz

The Indigo Heiress

by Laura Frantz

Publisher: Revell

ISBN: 9780800740696

As one who ADORES Laura Frantz and her stories, I couldn't WAIT to get my hands on her newest release, The Indigo Heiress! If you haven't grabbed your own copy, let me tell you that you're missing out! Revell sent me my copy of the book!

Summary:

Virginia plantation life is all she has ever known. 
But could the life she was meant to live be waiting on a distant shore? 

In 1774, Juliet Catesby lives with her father and sister at Royal Vale, the James River plantation founded by her Virginia family over a century before. Indigo cultivation is her foremost concern, though its export tethers her family to the powerful Buchanan clan of Glasgow, Scotland. 

When the heir of the Buchanan firm arrives on their shores, Juliet discovers that her father has arranged for one of his daughters to marry the Scot as a means of canceling the family's crippling debt. Confident it will be her younger, lovelier sister, Juliet is appalled when Leith Buchanan selects her instead.

Despite her initial refusal, Juliet realizes that fleeing Virginia is her only choice after finding herself in the midst of a scandal. The ship just leaving the harbor for Glasgow is her only hope. But she will soon realize that being part of the complex and calculating Buchanan clan is not the sanctuary she imagined--and the man who saved her from ruin is the very one she must now save in return.

My Review:

I haven't met a Laura Frantz book that I haven't adored! Her stories always draw me in and are rich with relationships and strong characters. The Indigo Heiress captured me. It's different than her other books in some ways, while still the same in others. Her other stories always seem to have one really awful character who is easy to dislike. This one had a side character who isn't likable in the least, but doesn't have a presence throughout the whole story.

I always love the male main characters in her stories because they're so confident in who they are and are intensely protective of their loved ones. Leith is one such man, but throughout much of the story has a hard time showing affection. He's very business minded and oftentimes seems cold and distant. He just needs the right motivation to thaw his heart.

Juliet is a delight! She's forward thinking for such a time and has a head for business. She carries on her mother's work as an abolitionist. Her sister, Loveday, helps as well and also plays a large role in this story, which I loved. The two of them are a force to be reckoned with. Unfortunately, their "work" gets them into trouble, and their only means of saving themselves is joining Leith on his departing ship and marrying him!

Their start isn't an easy one and it continues to be difficult once they reach Scotland. What ensues there will keep everyone on their toes. Loveday needs to procure a husband. Leith's business is in jeopardy. Leith's scandal that began when he left is still waiting for him when he returns.

Juliet's compassion and care for those around her is palpable. Both sisters stay rooted in their faith and try to show Christ to any who will listen. While Leith has no real concern about faith, Juliet is determined to show God's love to him. There are sweet and tender moments that will have your heart aflutter.

I felt like there were a couple of loose ends that could've been tied up a bit better. One was Leith's brother's faith and where he stood in that. The other was the awful Virginian and where he ended up. Those are minor things that didn't affect the plot or story overall. Just stuck out to me.

It was incredibly fun to hear names and places mentioned in this story that we know from previous books. It gave a wonderful sense of familiarity and nostalgia for characters I've previously loved! I felt like with the author's writing, each location came to life in their unique ways and made me want to travel back in time!

About the Author:

Laura Frantz is a two-time Christy Award winner and the ECPA bestselling author of 15 novels, including The Seamstress of Acadie, The Rose and the Thistle, The Frontiersman's Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, The Lacemaker, and A Heart Adrift. She is the proud mom of an American soldier and a career firefighter. Though she will always call Kentucky home, Laura lives with her husband in Washington State. Learn more at LauraFrantz.net.