A Simple Life,really?!

Review: The Reluctant Healer of Halifax by:T Todd

2026-08-30T12:10:28.084-05:00

About the Book:

Her Family, Her Home, Her Future—All Leveled in One Thunderous Explosion

When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Three days ago, Pearline Campbell's family was whole and Oliver Hamilton still loved her. But upon returning to Halifax disfigured and shellshocked, Oliver ended their relationship. Then came Thursday, December 6, 1917, when the Halifax harbor was leveled by a tremendous explosion. . .and Pearline fears nothing will ever be whole again. Her parents are dead, her brother is missing, and her sister refuses to speak. Pearline must fortify herself to open her home to needy orphans, including an unidentified baby. Where can she find the strength for each new day as misery grips the city?

My Review:

How awful it must of been to wake up to a nightmare? One that was shocking, surprising, and will forever be etched in your memory. The people in Halifax, Nova Scotia will never forget it and the people that lost family during that incident most definitely won't.

Pearline and her family were firsthand to this experience that shook their entire existence and life as they know it. But Pearline lost a lot more that day, many of whom she will never be able to recover. So she sets to work to help with the wounded and overnight her life transforms to a recovery worker and caretaker. Sometimes it seems that it meshed so well that she forgets her previous life as she knew it but it is still there under the surface. A reckoning that she isn't ready to acknowledge let alone think about.

Oliver is in his own personal prison one that he will never wake up from or agree to. We follow along as the two of them navigate uncharted waters that have turned the entire world upside down, including their own.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Bachelor Spy by:P Basham

2026-07-14T15:49:21.697-05:00

About the Book:

Spies Infiltrate Havensbooke Hall. . .and Another Mystery Adventure Begins

Stephen Blake's life goal is to protect people, especially those closest to him, but war in 1915 England doesn’t follow any rules. When Blake is informed that a noted German spy may have taken up residence at Havensbrooke Hall—his cousin Lord Astley’s estate, which is being used as a convalescent war hospital—he’s sent there to uncover the plot.

Lady Grace Astley has become a force to be reckoned with while Frederick is out on the war front. With Havensbrooke as a hospital, she’s shocked by the devastation the war is bringing home; but ever hopeful, she is determined to help these weary soldiers find some relief. However, not everything is as it seems inside Havensbrooke. Precious items soon start disappearing. . .and not just the kind that are worth a lot of money.

Through a case of mistaken identity, a comedy of errors, a kidnapping, and a race for time within the crumbling subterranean passageways beneath Havensbrooke, can Blake and Gracie work together to root out the criminals, thieves, and spies before time runs out?

My Review:

Ya know time waits on no one. It is ever turning and evolving and we must go along with it whether we want to or not. But the war in England had everyone by the throat and Blake and Grace are no different. They get tossed to and fro no matter the reason. Blake is ready to help his family at any cost while Lady Grace is tossed in for good measure.

Not only is she being exposed to people and events that sort of go across the grain of a Lady but she is taught to manage no matter what. Seeing the war torn England and knowing that the enemy is close by sends shivers down her spine. But is she brave enough to help Blake find the answers they both need to move this along?

But with everything happening around thing and the thought s that ravage their minds it soon to reveal itself not to be such an open and shut case.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Girl from Tomorrow's Town by:N Musch

2026-06-08T11:05:28.263-05:00

About the Book:

Past and Present Collide on the Railway

When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.

More from the Enduring Hope
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee

My Review:

Y'all! I just don't trust this people affiliated with the circus back then. So I'm already on high alert when this Francis Basnett enters the picture. I just feel like he will lead Lily Mae in the wrong direction.

So back in the day shortly after the Civil War era there were traveling circus' that real hired just anyone off the street so Lily was guaranteed a job by this Francis person. But trains were also robbed during this time quite a bit. So Lily finds herself in a precarious situation before she ever gets to her stop.

I'm a girls girl so I'm always cheering girls on. Anytime we can succeed without failing I'm all over it. This series has been phenomenal in that it shows us overcoming so much.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: Not Precisely Mr Knightley by:C Miller

2026-05-18T11:37:00.599-05:00

About the Book:

Can the Matchmaker Find True Love?
Emma-Jane (EJ) Bennett and Jordan Knight are longtime best friends who codesigned the immensely successful dating app, Dream Match. Success starts to go to EJ's head when she gets caught up in the famous and money-hungry social circles and starts dating the son of a TV mogul. But Jordan's feelings have grown from friendship to more. He determines to protect her by exposing Eric Churchill for the two-timer he is, finally agreeing to attend a function with her at the Sydney Opera House. But his best intentions go awry when EJ is embarrassed and runs for the security of home, small-town roots, and The Silver Teapot Café, feeling like Jane Austen's chastised Emma--only without her Mr. Knightley.
Don't miss book 1 in The Silver Teapot series, Not Exactly Mr. Darcy

My Review:

So this series has got me, y'all! Literally, got a hold on me. You have to read this series. So sweet and darlin'. I love it so much! So excited for the next book in the series. Okay let's get into this review. Just want to say the book covers are spot on. Okay, lets get into it.

EJ and her besty Jordan designed a dating app called Dream Match. EJ meanwhile starts dating Eric and Jordan being her best friend knows a thing or two about him. He is all about protecting his best friend. He has to get through to her, no matter what. So as things twist and turn will EJ and Jordan be able to fix this between them? Its a page turner and leaves you wanting more.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: A Heart on Consignment by:M Steele

2026-04-07T14:41:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

Love Is Not for Sale

Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.

Despite knowing her parents are getting desperate for their only child to marry and give them grandchildren, Salina Stoltzfus is weary of seeking the perfect match. Every time she thinks she has found “the one,” he marries another.

The best way to forget you are the last woman any man in Havenlee, Indiana, wants to hitch his buggy too is to find something passionate to focus on. When the area is overrun with donations after a tragic storm, Salina suggests opening a consignment shop. The deacon supports the idea and offers his visiting nephew to help set things up.

After the embarrassment of having his fiancée call off their wedding, Seth Weaver takes his mother’s advice to leave Kentucky to stay with his uncle for a while. Unfortunately, Seth knows nothing about building furniture in his uncle’s factory, which is the only reason he agrees to help ready the consignment shop next door—not because of the little chatterbox working inside.

When Salina’s parents are caught meddling in her love life, she comes up with a crazy idea that might gain her some time and space. Could it be the road to happiness is paved with good intentions and epic fails—until we cross paths when the one made especially for us?

My Review:

I know from experience that waiting for your child to find "the one" can be heart wrenching. Mostly because they are heart broken over not finding their person when they think they should and kissing all the toads leading up to the right one. Salina is getting tired of waiting for that person. She knows her parents worry that she'll never provide them with a grandchild but she has grown very weary that she will ever find that person.

So she sets to work to keep her mind, heart, and soul occupied. Salina feels that her community's recent tragedy will help her greatly and the community, overall. She opens a consignment shop and this little shop helps Seth get out of working with is uncle.

The two of them embark on something that may be set in the stars and point them both in the right direction once and for all.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Beginner's Quilt by:W Brunstetter

2026-03-16T11:15:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

A Lifelong Love for Quilting Starts in 1967, Arthur, Illinois

Despite the best efforts of Emma Bontrager’s mother, Emma hasn’t learned much of anything that will prepare her to be an Amish wife. Therefore, she’s sent to Arthur, Illinois, to be taught by her paternal grandmother. Though she would rather be fishing, hiking, or playing baseball, Emma finally listens to her grandmother and even finds she enjoys working on a Tree of Life quilt. Having met a nice young man, she now feels more prepared for marriage. But rumors swirl around his character, and it looks like she’ll be returning to Indiana with a broken heart. Even so, her time in Illinois has ignited a new passion for quilting that will last for years.

- A stand-alone prequel to The Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club and Half-Stitched, the musical.

My Review:

What do you do when you arent like the other Amish women in your community? You dont like to cook, clean or sew. So Emma's mother is at her wits end and sends Emma to her grandmother to be put under her charge and to hopefully learn some things so that she can eventually marry and be a good Amish wife.

Emma endures the long hours of quilting but she finally discovers she actually likes it. Its not long before a young man notices Emma. But the talk around town isnt so favorable and she is afraid that this is just another missed opportunity for marriage.

Ivan hasnt made the best of life and the opportunities he has had but he is trying to turn his life around. If only other people would see that. He really enjoys Emma's company. Could she be the one his heart desires?

This was a really great story and Im excited to see where it leads.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Bird of Bedford Manor by:M Griep

2026-02-03T11:38:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

Bedfordshire, England, 1820: Ruined by the sins of her father, Juliet Finch is cast into a life of self-reliance. Survival is a harsh taskmaster, but she is a quick learner and excels at tracking and snaring wild game to feed herself. Juliet embraces her new identity until the day Henry Russell catches her poaching on his land—a crime punishable by death. Henry, however, has other offenses on his namely, the troublesome stalker who’s making a misery of his sister’s life. To try to put a stop to her torment, Henry charges Juliet with tracking the elusive villain so he can be brought to justice. Using her skills, Juliet hunts down the rogue. . .but may just become the prey herself.

My Review:

Poor Juliet, she is thrown into a way of life that she never saw coming but due to her fathers unspeakable sins--here she is. I was actually quite surprised that she learned survival techniques so quickly. But when you have it thrust upon you, what choice did she really have? Shes doing really well in her newly found activities when she is spotted where she shouldnt be. Then it all goes downhill from there or does it?

So Henry Russell, is the owner to the property that she is "poaching". But instead of having her killed as a punishment, he wants to make a deal. But honestly, can she really trust this guy?

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are mine.

Review: Plain Jane's Secret Admirer by:A Blackburne

2026-01-07T11:27:00.001-06:00

About the Book:

Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.

Sweet, shy, and devoted Amish woman, Jane Bontrager secretly hates her childhood nickname of Plain Jane. She doesn’t know who started the ugly name back in her school days, but she can never forget how it has long made her feel.

Jane has a huge crush on Amish buggy maker Samuel Mast, but they are both so shy they are more likely to turn old and gray alone than to ever get together—especially since Samuel holds a secret or two of his own.

What can bridge the gap between two young people who both deserve love and happiness?

My Review:

First of all, cat mom here. I love cats! So I was immediately drawn into Jane's story based on that alone. The front cover is definitely working for me. The other thought while enjoying this story is why do kids have to be so mean? Poor Jane has always been a shy girl. In school she had pinned a nickname or should I say it was pinned to her. Ever since then she struggles to fit in anywhere. Being shy doesn't help either.

I love the unassuming way of Jane. I didn't really care for Sam but I do like his interactions with Jane. I also loved Eliza and Ben. They are a really great add to the story.

Sometimes love and romance doesn't fit inside a box. It may look different than expected and that's okay.

This story is a really good one and it captured my attention right away. Perfect by the fire kind of story.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: Not Exactly Mr Darcy by:C Miller

2025-12-06T11:04:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

Pride, Pemberley, and Second Chances

When history-loving Olivia Bennett’s teaching contract isn’t renewed, she is considered her family’s logical choice to care for her ailing grandmother in a tiny English village. While there, she soon finds additional work at nearby Hartbury Hall—one of England’s great houses once used as Pemberley in a filmed production of Pride and Prejudice. The head gardener there, however, proves to be anything but the gentlemanly hero of that famous book. Little does she know that behind Liam Browne’s brusque exterior is both a family tragedy and a legacy that demands truth and honor, creating a crisis that only Liv’s vivacious determination can resolve. Along the way, she may just learn that appearances count for naught. . .and that love can be found in unexpected ways.

My Review:

There are just so many aspects to this story that's just darling. I like the book cover that's what initially drew me to the book, in the first place. The setting is based in England and the way that its described sounds so heavenly. I just love English gardens and the like. Just beautiful!

Olivia is a precious character that has such a sweet spirit about her. She soon realize that this garden has many things that surround it that is different than just an ordinary garden restoration. Seasons change and bring new people into our lives that can and will most literally upset and upend our thoughts and change the direction of our lives. Olivia's learned that when she met Liam Browne.

Are you a fan of Jane Austen? Well if not you will be. This story is so reminiscent of her writings and it shows through every fiber of this endearing story.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Red Cottage by:H Linder

2025-11-12T15:48:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

She forgot she loved him.
He would die to make her remember.

Meg Foxcroft has never minded the tattling village gossip or her uncle’s ill-tempered rebukes. After all, she has Tom McGwen—and one day, they will build their own cottage, paint it red, and live a wonderful life.

But then the unthinkable happens. Meg is attacked, her uncle’s apothecary shop goes up in flames, and when she wakes up in the arms of an eloquent lord, she remembers nothing. Not even her own name.

In a frantic race against time, Tom plunges into dangerous water, bent on sheltering Meg from harm and discovering who wants her dead. Even if she despises him. Even if it’s now the handsome lord she casts her smile upon.

As danger swells and truth comes crashing around them, Meg must confront the past and decide who she trusts—and loves—before the enemy makes the final strike.

My Review:

Great read that will remind you of those faraway movies or stories you have read or seen that are almost fantasy like but real period type history.

Meg has big hopes and dreams for herself and her Tom. But will it all be for naught if her uncle has no shop and everything she knows goes up in smoke with it? After the shop burns down a Lord comes to her rescue. But somehow her Tom does too. It is just as confusing to the reader as it is to the protagonist. Having amnesia sure did mess everything up for Meg and Tom.

Will they ever figure this all out and find their way back to each other?!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Daughter of Shiloh Bk 3 (Enduring Hope) by:T Haynes

2025-10-06T08:39:00.001-05:00

About the Book:

Collect a series of six historical romances. When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Lealie Bevard, a determined Tuskegee Institute student, attends the Shiloh Baptist Church convention in Birmingham on September 19, 1902, to request a scholarship for continued education at Harvard. But a beautiful gathering turns tragic when a stampede breaks out and Lealie is injured. While convalescing at the home of fellow Tuskegee student Milton Rafferty, Lealie’s concerns for her future are set aside to help Milton uncover a mystery revolving around missing church funds and a possible murder. Perhaps a pause in Lealie’s well-laid plans can be used for good and lead to love.

My Review:

First of all, if there is a historical fiction book or story sign me up!. Love history and this one ranks up there with the top choices. I am not sure I was ever aware of the stampede that took place and I don't feel much has been said or written about it. I have lived in Alabama my whole life and the only story about any churches here is the story about the bombing in 1963 so this story was very interesting to me.

Lealie is a very determined young lady that has set her sights high but they aren't unreachable in her eyes. Maybe in the community and those around her but not in her own. She attends a gathering where Booker T Washington will be a speaker to reach out to the community for help, in getting a scholarship to Harvard in order to continue her education.

While there Lealie is caught in the middle of a disaster that no one saw coming. A stampede ensues and several people are hurt and some killed. All from a misunderstanding on words. While very sad Lealie and new friend Milton discover there is a huge mystery to uncover that will require the two of them to put their heads together to find resolution.

A really good read for a crisp afternoon!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: Mistletoe and Mayhem by: J Thompson

2025-09-12T08:01:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch

Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.

It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.

My Review:

I imagine that the Midwest always has wildfires or their potential on their mind. It seems in recent years that it happens a lot more than it use to. RaeLyn and Mason have that same concern probably more often than their friends and family. But these days its extra concerning because of their home and livelihood and that their wedding is only days from taking place. While I like the main characters I am always up for a good Christmas fiction story. My absolute favorite!

This story takes place during that time. so while wedding planning is all the buzz this addition to the series the pending wildfire and the cause are causing all kinds of emotions in the main two characters and they get down to the bottom of it pronto--wedding or not.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by:K Goshorn

2025-08-07T11:01:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

Collect a new series of six historical romances. When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Henrietta “Etta” Maxwell, heiress to the Maxwell fortune, is a hard-hitting investigative reporter for The Enterprise Daily. The catch? Etta must pen her columns under the nom de plume, Henry Mason—a fact that routinely puts a knot in her knickerbockers.

Leo Eriksson is a second-generation firefighter with a passion for rendering aid to those in need. When Leo discovers that Henry Mason is really Henrietta Maxwell, the fire department’s wealthy benefactress, he agrees to keep her identity secret.

After a sudden blast rocks the Grover Shoe Factory, Leo and Etta team up to determine if the explosion is related to a series of suspicious fires in the area. But sparks fly when Leo accuses Etta of negating the human side of the disaster in her determination to get a good story.

When an unnamed source reveals Etta’s secret identity to a rival reporter, she falsely accuses Leo of being the informant. As the truth comes to light, Etta must persuade Leo to give her a second chance or lose the only man she’s ever loved.

My Review:

So set in a time when ladies kinda got the hard line, as far as trying to make a name for themselves or to really do anything in the world. Etta had to use a pen name and that name being a man's name. The name was Henry Mason. Etta Maxwell and Henry Mason being one and the same star reporter for the local paper. Etta is a wealthy lady but she also likes a good mystery. And so it goes she is off on another adventure about town, the Grover Shoe Factory had an explosion and series of suspicious fires.

Of course Etta will make her way there to investigate but there is always an annoyance of some kind and this time its of one Leo Eriksson a firefighter and legend around town. He is always helpful and neighborly. He cares deeply for these people and the town as a whole. He happens to run into Etta and things arent exactly picturesque.

Thats when things start to go downhill and these two start butting heads. Etta is all about getting the story and Leo is worried about the people. But soon sparks start to fly between the two and it aint to start another, if you know what I mean.

These book is perfect for a good crisp fall day. It has a mystery which I love and it has some romance. Great Read!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Highland Heist by: P Basham

2025-07-08T12:07:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

Grace Storms a Scottish Castle to Save her Sister

Lord Astley surprises his wife with a trip to America to see her family before they end their honeymoon adventures. But just as they arrive, they find Grace’s sister, Lillias, is the prime suspect in her husband’s murder. To add to the confusion a solicitor arrives to tell the sister’s they are needed in Scotland immediately to claim their mother’s inheritance.

The clock is ticking to clear Lillias of suspicion, but someone is determined to keep the sisters from reaching the Scottish Highlands. When Lillias disappears, Freddie and Grace race to Scotland, sure the answers will be found in a long-forgotten castle.

With a ghost from Frederick’s past leaving threatening clues along the way, the mysterious Mr. Kane waiting in the wings to grab the inheritance for himself, and an apparition haunting the infamous castle, Lord and Lady Astley must capture the castle, save Lillias, and not die in the process.

My Review:

I love the adventures of Lady Astley and Lord Astley. They are always running into something that they have to figure a way out of and I'm here for it. I feel like I know them. This time it was grace's sister that was in trouble and no sooner do they find this out she disappears. The story kept me wondering if they knew where she was and they werent hiding her themselves. Very action filled to say the least.

Then like life does it continues and you are forced to move with it. The sisters were informed of the wish for them to go to Scotland to learn of their mother's inheritance. So because Lillias is missing Freddie and Grace have to race to Scotland. But dont worry more trouble awaits them.

Such a great story that is suspense filled and I couldnt wait for the next thing to happen.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Angel of Second Street by:B Blakey

2025-05-24T14:00:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

How Can Compassion be Considered Wrong?

When life is weighed down by challenges, pillars of enduring hope and love are always waiting to be discovered.

Ida Dempsey has grown up in a privileged life of luxury thanks to her aunt and uncle. Although Second Street—where women of ill repute ply their wares—is off limits to respectable citizens, her heart of compassion compels her to frequent the area, hoping to make a difference in their lives. Ida has also befriended Qui Shau, a Chinese woman who keeps house for her family, but friendships between the whites and Chinese are taboo in Eureka. Ida tries to keep secret her forbidden compassion, but someone is watching and will use it against her.

When Blaine Prescott meets Ida at a church picnic, his parents warn him away from any relationship with the young lady who has been seen on Second Street in the company of a Chinese woman. But how could such a kindhearted, lovely young woman be anything but good? But when riots break out in Chinatown and Ida disappears, Blaine will do anything to find out where and why she has gone.

My Review:

I really liked Ida's story and how it went in deep to the struggles of that time. Im sure there were many people in that era with the same convictions and heart as Ida. Many suffered with it in silence and many did as Ida did. Went there and tried to help others as the Bible instructs us to do. I dont think the author writing on such a taboo topic of the time was wrong or forced. I actually believe quite the opposite.

I love the story and I love Blaine's part in this whole ordeal and Im glad he was waiting in the wings to in turn help Ida. I like the story and the two rich in detail characters served it well. Too bad we can hear a little more from the two of them.

Great summer beach read!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: Lizzie's Little Mouse by:Anne Blackburne

2025-04-21T14:07:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

Lizzie Has Dreams That Won’t Be Deterred

Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.

Lizzie Miller has wanted to own a New Orleans-style French bakery since she attended a wedding in New Orleans at age fifteen. So with her parents’ and the bishop’s permission, she did a two-year internship in a French bakery in New Orleans. Then she came home and worked for several years in the local Amish bakery, buying the business when it became available. And now someone wants her out.

A string of unsettling events is surely meant to scare her away. But with the help of her friends, she will get to the bottom of why someone wishes her to fail in the bakery business. And along the way, she just may realize that sometimes dreams can be fulfilled unexpectedly—with the help of someone who was just waiting to be noticed.

Maybe all Lizzie needs is a little faith and a lot of love.

My Review:

I just love these fiction books that revolve around a bakery. I always wanted my own bakery, so I live vicariously through the main character. Just love this story. Lizzie seems like such a sweet and honorable person. i cant imagine why anyone wouldn't want her to have the things that she wants most in this world. Why would anyone want to take that away from her? But someone does. So Lizzie and her friends do their best to get to the bottom of the mystery. And along the way help comes from somebody she never thought of.

A really sweet story with a little bit of mystery--thrown in.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Peacemaker by:Wanda Brunstetter

2025-03-25T11:28:00.000-05:00

About the Book:

An Unresolved Mystery Holds an Amish Community in Limbo

In book two of A Mifflin County Mystery series, Rosa Petersheim’s disappearance continues to cause suspicion and pain to swirl in the Big Valley.

Ada’s best friend, Rosa, disappeared a year ago and still has not been found. In their grief and confusion, Ada and Rosa’s boyfriend, Ephraim, have grown very close. But some in the community feel Ephraim is responsible for Rosa’s disappearance. Now Rosa’s younger sister is making accusations against Ephraim that can’t be true, and he pulls away from Ada, feeling betrayed. A fire set by an arsonist might finally be the thing to reveal secrets that have long been dividing this community of friend

My Review:

Its so sad that Rosa disappears and as the town has had to go on without her without any real definite answers just makes this story even more sad. Ephraim seems to be the scape got for Rosa's disappearance at least by the town's standards. Ada and Ephraim become closer and I'm not sure many people around town approve of that. Things shift and people start to see who is really at fault.

This story is so sad and it really touches you to see how the town reacts to such a huge loss. And what Ada and Ephraim do in an attempt to pick up the pieces.

A great addition to the Mifflin County Mystery series. I like the characters and really want to see what come next for this town and its people.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: Sabotage at Cedar Creek (The Little Red Truck Mysteries) by:Janice Thompson

2025-02-26T13:07:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

Who Would Set the New B&B Ablaze?

Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book two of this cozy mystery series.

In Mabank, Texas, the Hadley family’s new antique business is open and running well with Tilly, the red antique truck, as its mascot. RaeLyn Hadley enjoys driving Grandpa’s truck around as she seeks out antiques for her family’s store.

RaeLyn is excited that her friend, Tasha, will soon open a new bed-and-breakfast inn to accommodate the area’s growing tourism, but a fire threatens to spoil all Tasha has worked for.

RaeLyn immediately gets to work sleuthing out who could be behind such an act of sabotage. Could it be the nearby resort owner, the daughter of the house’s former owner; a neighbor, or a squatter who had been living in the house before renovations? RaeLyn is determined to solve the mystery for her friend.

Read also Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson.

My Review:

Absolutely, hand down love this series! I think its a fantastic story line and idea for a book. I love it! I can imagine RaeLyn riding around finding antiques for her family's store. I love that Tilly is the mascot. It just seems like a good wholesome story line. I love that its based in Texas, as well. Just all around great way to begin. Just love it!

This addition to the series tells us a little more about Tasha and her new bed and breakfast. But even though Tasha's business will thrive in Mabank and fire is set to threaten all she has worked hard to achieve.

RaeLyn, of course has to figure this all out and help her friend. And you just know if RaeLyn is in charge we will all learn the culprit or will we?!

Great story!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits by:Wanda E. Brunstetter

2025-02-12T08:14:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

Why Are Baking Contestants Disappearing?

Mysteries have a way of following Fannie Miller, so when she makes it into the finals of the Tuscarawas County Baking Contest and contestants start disappearing, she calls on her old friend Foster Bates, a retired cop and part-time private investigator. Could it be that other finalists are somehow responsible for these disappearances, thinning out the competition? Like the couple on verge of divorce who need the prize money, or the three Beiler sisters, always in a huddle whispering. One thing is for certain—Foster and Fannie will stay on the case until the end, and everyone involved will have learned something important about baking contests, solving mysteries, and life.

New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter and Emmy-Nominated Author Martha Bolton have teamed up to deliver a delightful whodunit from Ohio’s Amish country.

My Review:

I absolutely love a good mystery. I don't like it too scary but just enough to make you wonder and make you want to know the answers. Wanda Brunstetter is really good at writing these types of mysteries. Poor Fannie, the lead character in the story is always encountering issues. This time its no different. She enters a county baking contest and soon realizes that the other contestants are disappearing one by one and shes starting to get nervous. Could she be next?!

Fannie has a friend that will help uncover this mystery right along with her. So the story turns out to be a really good cozy type mystery with subtle nods toward a possible romance but like all of the author's stories it good and clean--and I appreciate that.

A really great story! And it centers around food, how great is that?!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review: The Most Overlooked Women of the Bible by: M. DeMuth

2025-01-07T10:27:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

Many of us believe we are unseen.

Memories of being on the outside still haunt us today. We somehow believe we are unique in being overlooked. And yet, the Bible is replete with women just like us—women who felt on the outskirts of life, unseen and voiceless. In their stories, you will not only learn more about the women of the Bible, but you’ll begin to understand that you are both seen and heard.

How about you? Have you ever felt like life has passed you by? When you look back on your pivotal moments, do you feel unseen and overlooked? You are not alone. Not only have others around you experienced the same things, but many women in the Bible have too. We all have asked questions

·       Why can’t people seem to see and notice me?

·       How can I overcome this feeling of rejection?

·       What does a “seen” life actually look like in a world of social media and the insta-famous?

This universal feeling is normal, but it doesn’t have to stick to you. Through the raw and real stories of ten women who also felt overlooked, you can unearth new ways to find meaning and joy in a world that ignores you.

My Review:

In The Most Overlooked Women of the Bible, the author chronicles 10 sort of misunderstood or not very popular women of the Bible. They are women for all intents and purposes are significant in the telling of most stories within the Bible. They place such small parts yet were still such quintessential players in most of the stories and happenings of major battles or accomplishments in stories leading up to ushering in the Christ. Whether big or small we needed and the Kingdom needed their contribution.

So of the ten I chose one that I felt I was most like to give you a little bit of a taste of what this book is all about. Martha I feel is one after my own heart. She's always goin' and doin' with little recognition for it. whether its those around her or the Lord himself. Not that she never gets any recognition but rather feels like she doesn't.

So Martha probably didn't know it, but she was being taught how to serve well and that along with serving comes suffering. So as she was taken aside by Jesus He was teaching her.The author shows us the interaction between Mary, Martha and Jesus and then takes the Biblical account and offers commentary there, as well. But she didn't leave us hanging there, she also provides us a connection to her own life and how she has learned or was taught some of these very things by the Lord.

I always took comfort in the relationship of Lazarus, Mary Martha, and Jesus. They had a friendship. It was a great story and one I will never forget. There is a lot we can learn from that story from beginning to end.

After the author has broken down the story and provided Biblical account she ends the chapter with Truths and discussion questions.While this book may not be considered a Bible study it would most definitely make a good one. A lot of good stuff in this book!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: Abundantly Well by:S Nugent

2025-01-07T09:38:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

Make your midlife years your healthiest ones yet! International fitness presenter Shemane Nugent offers Bible-based wisdom for weight loss, increased energy, and vibrant health. What if you could be wildly healthier and wildly happier without completely giving up your favorite foods or daily spending two hours in the gym? If you don’t know where to start and you haven’t exercised in years, don’t worry. Maybe you’ve tried diets that don’t work, or exercises that hurt, and you’re ready to give up. As a fitness instructor for more than forty-three years, Shemane shares her favorite hacks for aging gracefully, staying in shape, and feeling energized in your forties, fifties, sixties, and beyond!

In Wildly Well, International Fitness Presenter Shemane Nugent will come along side you and motivate you every day. This 40-Day journey provides you with daily inspiration to help you overcome doubt and inhibitions about aging and ignite passion for living well at any age. You’ll break strongholds like overcoming cravings the enemy uses to discourage you. For those who are too busy, Shemane will help you find a few extra minutes for exercise. You’ll lean into scripture that supports health and wellness so you can continue to do God’s good work. “‘For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds,’ says the Lord,” Jeremiah 30:17Shemane shares her journey from deadly sickness and depression to vibrant health and provides a path others can follow. This 40-day transformation will help you live vibrantly, age gracefully, and energize your faith.Foolproof workouts, tension taming stretches, daily Bible verses, healthy home hacks, recipes and more!

My Review:

I have recently had a birthday that seemed to have reminded me that I am not a spring chicken any longer. So Abundantly Well, came at just the right time for me. It is now a new year and this is the time we are suppose to start thinking in a new mindset and hopefully make some changes. Better changes and bigger changes. Changes that we should implement to stick around a little longer.

In Shemane Nugent's latest book she gives us Bible based solutions to a better more healthier lifestyle. So to start this journey off right the author provides the reader with an assessment to help you figure out where you are at health wise, emotional wise and to really look at your physical activity. It discusses your lifestyle, sleep patterns , your faith and any goals you may have.

Throughout the book the author gives you the lifestyle changes that she has made throughout the years and she shows you the Bible based teaching behind a lo of it. The book is presented to you in days, 40 days to be exact. After each day she ends it with a prayer.

I'm a foodie so my most favorite part of the whole book is the recipes. They look really good and some I have tried already. Spaghetti squash with a yummy meat sauce is a family favorite! If you are looking for a good start to begin a better more healthy transformation this year, than this book is for you! It has it all!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: What I Left for You by:Liz Tolsma

2024-12-16T15:08:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

A Family’s Ties Were Broken in Poland of 1939

1939
Helena Kostyszak is an oddity—an educated female ethnic minority lecturing at a university in Krakow at the outbreak of WWII. When the Germans close the university and force Jews into the ghetto, she spirits out a friend’s infant daughter and flees to her small village in the southern hills. Helena does everything in her power to protect her family, but it may not be enough. It will take all of her strength and God’s intervention for both of them to survive the war and the ethnic cleansing to come.

2023
Recently unengaged social worker McKenna Muir is dealt an awful blow when a two-year-old she’s been working with is murdered. It’s all too much to take, so her friend suggests she dive into her family’s past like she’s always wanted. Putting distance between herself and her problems might help her heal, so she and her friend head on Sabbatical to Poland. But what McKenna discovers about her family shocks everyone, including one long-lost family member.

My Review:

This is a dual time novel meaning it is split among two different time periods. While that is usually still a great read sometimes its hard to follow. But this one was quite simple. McKenna from today, is looking into her family's past that is when she discovers a whole other world from the past that really opens up to her in many different ways.

The stories and how they intertwined were just perfect reading material. I could see how each family coexisted and it was so easy to follow. I loved the stories they were both written really well. Helena's story was so heartbreaking and she was such a great lady. Sometimes its hard to believe the characters arent real.

I really loved the book! Echoes of the Past is a great series!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Review: Never Forgotten by:H Linder

2024-11-30T14:49:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

All He Wanted was Justice. All She Wanted was His Heart.

Georgina Whitmore, not accustomed to any man being unaffected by her charms, is plagued with the disappearance and rejection of Simon Fancourt. Twelve years later, Mr. Fancourt returns to British society with two children and a mad hunger for justice.

Racing against time, Simon works to uncover the men responsible for his wife’s horrific murder, protect his children, and fulfill his father’s unexpected will by marrying Georgina—the last thing in the world he wants to do.

Though her heart throbs to accept, she would rather lose him again than have his name without his love. She denies his proposal of matrimony, knowing it will cost them both. But as tragedies unravel and secret enemies narrow their sights on Simon, Georgina risks her life—and her reputation—to protect him and the children. Will the danger scorch them alive? Or will it, for the first time, open his heart to her?

My Review:

This historical fiction romance story is set in the 1800's. It is very prominent with the times and shows the story of Georgina and Simon and the struggle to first accept the love that draws them and second to act upon it. Full of rich prose and definite plot line. I liked the intermingling of the story and the third person that was involve due to no fault of his own.

A really great story that really leaves me on the edge as to what becomes of these two.

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher.

Review:Unforgotten by:S Gray

2024-11-30T14:15:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

Even though Bethanne Hostetler has found some peace eight years after an attempted assault and the accidental death of Peter Miller, she is still haunted by the memory. When her Englisher cousin, Candace--who has just been crowned Miss Crittenden County--reveals that she has a stalker, all of Bethanne's old fears come rushing back.Jay Raber had once been Peter's best friend, and the fact that he did not protect Bethanne that fateful night has haunted him ever since. To make matters worse, she continues to avoid him--even as he continues to love her. Jay can only hope and pray that one day Bethanne will see the person he is today and not the boy he used to be. As Candace's stalker becomes bolder, Officer Ryan Mulany becomes her escort to various events. He knows he should only think of Candace as a job, but the more time they spend together, the harder it gets to maintain professional distance. And when everyone's worst fears are realized, all four must work together to prevent another tragedy before time runs out and another innocent person is hurt. From New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray comes this emotionally taut story of learning to forgive, trust, and love despite the pain of the past.

My Review:

Throughout the whole book I focused more on the dynamic between Candace and Ryan. I really liked their attraction and eventual relationship. I think they belong together and I think Ryan is the sweetest. I hope the next book touches more on that dynamic. Other than their relationship in the book the other story of Bethanne has a had a rough go of it.

This is a suspense Amish fiction story. It is full of suspense and intrigue and is a keeper for sure!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher.

Review:The Rational Bible: Numbers: God and Man in the Wilderness by:D Prager

2024-11-30T13:15:00.000-06:00

About the Book:

If you think the Bible is irrelevant, irrational, or even, at times, immoral—and you have an open mind—The Rational Bible will change your mind and influence your outlook on life.

You will come to understand why the Bible and especially its first five books, the Torah, are the most influential books ever written. Equally important, you will understand how they apply to your life.

The Rational Bible, Dennis Prager’s commentary and explanation of these five books—rooted in his expertise in biblical Hebrew and its grammar—is widely considered the most important modern Bible commentary. Read the thousands of reviews on Amazon—written by people of many faiths and of no faith—and you will appreciate why this is so.

The Book of Numbers—“In the Wilderness” in the original Hebrew—is the fourth book of the Bible. Among the many compelling issues addressed in this volume are the Doubting God. What produces faith—miracles or effort? And if effort, what efforts work? Arguing with God. Ingratitude as a source of evil. Why only men could be priests. Why the conscience is not morally reliable. Is fanaticism ever justified? Is there luck in life, or is everything determined by God’s will? The title of this five-volume commentary is The Rational Bible because its approach is entirely reason-based. The reader is never asked to accept anything on faith alone. In Dennis Prager’s words, “If something I write is not rational, I have not done my job.”

Few people alive today have influenced as many people as has Dennis Prager. In the words of the website, Powerline, “Dennis Prager is probably the foremost public intellectual of our time.” Read The Rational Bible and you will understand why.

My Review:

Not all commentaries are created equal. You do have to be careful the commentaries you align yourself with I just have to say that first. Dennis Prager--the author of this commentary The Rational Bible is a best-selling author, columnist and nationally syndicated radio talk show host based in Los Angeles and heard on 150 stations across the country. He is known across the nation.

This commentary in my opinion wasn't just some boring book. I like how it was laid out in a sort of question answer format. I like tat the author answers many of the question I have long since had about the Bible and different things that happened therein. It was full of facts backed by scripture which is also a very good thing to have in a commentary.

This along with a Bible study on the book of Numbers is a good thing to have close by. It helps explain a lot of the things you are reading and will open up the Bible in a lot of ways to you.

Great study material!

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher.