Life on Chickadee Lane

Watched Release Day and Book Review

2026-09-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the book

Book: Watched

Author: Jerusha Agen

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Release date: September 24, 2026

His mind is a steel trap. He didn’t know it could trap him.

Robert Weston became a psychiatrist to heal people’s minds. He can’t lose his. But if the strange occurrences of forgetfulness and confusion continue, he may not be able to hide the truth much longer. When his psychological issues put his life in danger, he must face the reality that the genetic nightmare he fears inheriting has seized him.

Attorney Monty Montgomery doesn’t trust Robert Weston. His expert testimony once ruined her client’s case. She didn’t realize the psychiatrist isn’t only wrong but also completely unreliable. How can she defend him against a malpractice suit for the insurance company that hired her when he’s clearly incompetent?

Robert and Monty have bigger problems than they know. Someone has a mission. A mission that won’t be stopped until somebody ends up dead.

Is everyone a pawn in the lethal game, or is Robert’s failing mind playing tricks on him? Even with the help of the Weston siblings, Robert and Monty may need a mind smarter than theirs—the mind of God—to escape this twisted game alive.

Purchase links: Author's website | Barnes & Noble | Amazon | All ebook stores

My Thoughts

Watched is book 3 of the "Windy City Westons" series, and really packs a punch! Let me tell you, it kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through. I didn't want to put it down once I began reading.
I like that Monty sticks to her faith convictions in spite of her attraction to Robert, who is not a Christian. But Robert is a genuinely caring person, who cares about his clients, even when faced with a malpractice law suite.
The suspense of who is targeting Monty and Robert is palpable, and keeps you guessing until the end. If you enjoy suspense, Watched has it. If descriptions of assault might be triggering, be aware. Some scenes will leave you breathless (almost literally).
Other scenes will have you laughing. I love the banter among the siblings, both Robert's and Monty's.
If you enjoy Christian romantic suspense, I highly recommend Watched. While you're at it, check out the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

About the author:

Jerusha Agen is a Christy Award finalist who imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies. Find more of Jerusha's thrilling, redemptive stories at JerushaAgen.com.

Connect with author:

This post contains affiliate links.

Sparks of Hope CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-09-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: Sparks of Hope

Author: Avrie Swan

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 1, 2026

A woman rebuilding after tragedy and a grieving father searching for hope discover that the past isn’t finished with them.

After the Peshtigo Fire reduces her teaching dreams to ash, Willow Deeran refuses to let the flames win. She pours her last hope into an audacious plan: opening an orphanage for the children left homeless by Wisconsin’s deadliest wildfire. All she needs is funding—and a partner she’s never met.

Violin maker Valentine Ashardt has spent the year since the fire hiding behind his grief, haunted by the daughter he lost in the blaze. Helping Willow build the orphanage offers more than purpose. As silent co-owner, he’ll have access to every child who comes through its doors. Surely, one of them will be his Mary.

As anonymous threats mount, old accusations resurface, and a mysterious little girl with no memory arrives on their doorstep, Willow and Valentine must decide if their dreams might not look different than they’d once hoped. Because sometimes God’s plan looks nothing like what we imagined. And sometimes the family we’ve been desperately searching for has been standing beside us all along.

For fans of Joanna Davidson Politano and Jody Hedlund—a tender story of faith renewed, purpose rediscovered, and love rising from the most unexpected ruins.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Avrie Swan is a Christian author and avid reader with a love for all things historical. Having grown up exploring antique stores and museums, she eventually decided to combine her interest in history with her love for writing and began working on her first full-length novel at the age of fourteen. She especially enjoys writing stories that focus on themes of family, faith, and growth through difficult times.

When Avrie is not writing, she is watching old movies, collecting antique books, and hunting for agates. A native Wisconsinite, she enjoys spending the cold winters indoors with her cat on her lap and a good book in her hand.

My Thoughts

Sparks of Hope is the third and final book of "The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles" series. This series has a special place in my heart because it takes place in Wisconsin. My parents were raised in Wisconsin, so that state is dear to my heart.

I enjoyed getting acquainted with both Willow and Valentine. Willow has such a big, impulsive heart. While Valentine is a bit reserved and a bit of a recluse, he also does care deeply. I enjoyed watching their friendship grow as they worked together to restore the inn so they could open an orphanage for the children who lost homes and parents in the fire.

Little Mary certainly captured my heart as she helped open Valentine's heart again.

If you enjoy Christian historical fiction, which is based on a tragic true event, I highly recommend this captivating story.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Avrie

Hello, folks!

It’s hard to believe Sparks of Hope is the third and final entry in "The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles" series. Writing this book was bittersweet… but also undeniably exciting. Willow and Valentine’s story took me some time to develop, and the result is a book with a lot of heart. Their tale explores themes of found family and growth while also rounding out Carina and Charlotte’s journeys. I hope you enjoy the conclusion to their stories!

One of my favorite elements in Sparks of Hope is Valentine’s occupation as a luthier. My family has always enjoyed music, and since I took violin lessons for several years when I was younger, I thought it only fitting to include a violin maker in one of my stories. I didn’t know much about the process of building violins when I started my research for the book, but I soon discovered it’s a fascinating and detailed craft. I have the utmost respect for the skilled people who shape the instruments enjoyed by so many.

While music plays a small role in Sparks of Hope, the story’s central theme is purpose. Have you ever wondered what God’s plan was for your life? That question weighs heavily on Willow’s mind after a disaster ruins all her carefully laid plans. She finds herself needing to choose a new path and pursue a different dream…although achieving it may not be quite as simple as she hopes.

In honor of the upcoming release of Sparks of Hope, I thought it would be fun to do a “this or that” game featuring some elements from the book. Which options do you prefer? Pick your favorites and then head over to my Instagram (@avrieswanwrites) or website (avrieswan.com) to share your choices!

Scarf or shawl
Griddlecakes or fresh bread
Cottage or townhouse
Sleigh ride or autumn walk
Frozen harbor or snowy forest

Blessings,

Avrie Swan

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 12

Books Less Travelled, September 13

lakesidelivingsite, September 14

She Lives to Read, September 15

Simple Harvest Reads, September 15 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

For Him and My Family, September 16

Texas Book-aholic, September 17

Betti Mace, September 18

Holly’s Book Corner, September 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 20

Cover Lover Book Review, September 21

Pause for Tales, September 21

Devoted To Hope, September 22

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 23

Connie’s History Classroom , September 24

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 24

Blossoms and Blessings, September 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Avrie is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/qaNE5/sparks-of-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

Secrets of the Desert Rose CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-09-20T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: Secrets of the Desert Rose

Author: Marilyn Turk

Genre: Dual Timeline

Release Date: February 24, 2026

Three Women. Two generations. Their friendship survived the war. Their secret survived even longer.

Monique and Audrey, one French and one British, grow up in French Algiers on the coast of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Best friends, they keep each other’s secrets into adulthood when World War II changes their world and Algiers sides with the Hitler-based Vichy government. Audrey joins Charles DeGaulle’s resistance army, the French Foreign Legion, while Monique stays to work in the underground resistance aiding the Allied invasion of North Africa.

In present day, American born great-granddaughter Nicole, a graduate student in archaeology, goes to North Africa for an internship. The now centenarian Monique (Mimi), debilitated by a stroke, urges her to find the Desert Rose. Nicole finds different types of desert roses, but none are the right one until she stumbles onto information that hints the desert rose might not be a flower after all. While Sami, her instructor in Algiers, helps her find the desert rose, he also has to protect her from people who want the heirloom ring Nicole wears which has its own secret.

Will Nicole find the secret before it’s too late?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Award-winning author Marilyn Turk has written over twenty historical and contemporary novels and novellas laced with suspense and romance. She especially likes writing World War II era books, and loves to discover information not widely known for her stories. In addition to fiction, Marilyn is also an annual contributor to Guideposts’ Walking in Grace and other Guideposts anthologies.

Marilyn enjoys helping other writers and founded the Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Faith, Hope and Love Christian Writers, AWSA, Word Weavers International and the United States Lighthouse Society.

Marilyn’s most recent books have been Secrets of the Desert Rose, The Escape Game set in World War II, and a novella, The Gilding of Minnie Tucker, set in The Gilded Age..

She and her husband Chuck have a blended family of four sons, one daughter and four grandsons whom they enjoy spending time with. Marilyn and Chuck are lighthouse enthusiasts and have visited over 100 lighthouses in the United States and other countries. They also served as volunteer lighthouse caretakers at Little River Light off the coast of Maine. As a result of her interest in lighthouses, Marilyn wrote Lighthouse Devotions, 52 Inspiring Lighthouse Stories.

My Thoughts

If you've been reading my blog for very long, you know that historical fiction, especially Christian historical fiction, is my favorite genre, and that World War II is one of my favorite eras. I will also admit, I am not the biggest fan of dual timeline stories.

I enjoyed Monique's and Audrey's stories, reading about their lives during World War II, each as part of the resistance. Following Nicole in 2019 led us into mystery and even a touch of danger. And I truly did enjoy how the past intertwined with the present.

If you enjoy dual-timeline historical fiction, with a touch of mystery and a dose of faith, this is a must for your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Marilyn

Why did I write Secrets of the Desert Rose by Marilyn Turk

Because I enjoy reading novels set during World War II, I also enjoy writing them. Most of the novels I’ve read are set in Europe – England, France, and surrounding countries. But we know the war impacted the whole world, so I look for stories set in places we don’t know much about.

Why did I set this book in North Africa? My sister-in-law’s mother was French and was born and lived in Algiers until sometime during World War II. Unfortunately, I waited too long to ask her about it, even though she lived to the age of 94. However, she left journals which gave insight into her life in Algiers and opened my eyes to what happened there before and during World War II. Monique is modeled on her stories.

While researching Algiers though, I came across another woman who was British and also played a role in North Africa during the war. Her name was Susan Travers, and her autobiography provided more interesting information. Although the two real women may have never met, her life was the basis for Audrey’s character.

I always find historical surprises when I research a novel and discovering the story of Cleopatra Selene was fascinating to me, so I had to include her in the book as well. And since there was so much secrecy involved in the true stories, I thought my characters needed secrets of their own, and my present-day character, Nicole, would have to discover them.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 11

Sylvan Musings, September 12

Simple Harvest Reads, September 13 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, September 14

Artistic Nobody, September 15 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 16

Guild Master, September 17 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, September 17

For Him and My Family, September 18

Fiction Book Lover, September 19 (Author Interview)

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 20

The Bookish Ledger, September 21 (Author Interview)

Connie’s History Classroom, September 21

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, September 22

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, September 23 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Corner, September 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marilyn is giving away the grand prize of a $15 Amazon Gift Card and an eBook copy of the book!!

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

https://gleam.io/nuBqc/secrets-of-the-desert-rose-celebration-tour-giveaway

Overcoming Bad Habits {a devotional}

2026-09-19T03:00:00.000-04:00

Keep thyself pure. 1 Timothy 5:22.

To know what constitutes purity of mind, soul, and body is an important part of education.

When the character is lacking in purity, when sin has become a part of the character, it has a bewitching power that is equal to the intoxicating glass of liquor. The power of self-control and reason is overborne by practices that defile the whole being; and if these sinful practices are continued, the brain is enfeebled and diseased, and loses its balance. Such ones are a curse to themselves and to all who have any connection with them....

Bad habits are more easily formed than good habits, and the bad habits are given up with more difficulty. The natural depravity of the heart accounts for this well-known fact—that it takes far less labor to demoralize the youth, to corrupt their ideas of moral and religious character, than to engraft upon their character the enduring, pure, and uncorrupted habits of righteousness and truth. Self-indulgence, love of pleasure, enmity, pride, self-esteem, envy, jealousy, will grow spontaneously, without example and teaching. In our present fallen state all that is needed is to give up the mind and character to its natural tendencies. In the natural world, give up a field to itself and you will see it covered with briers and thorns; but if it yields precious grain or beautiful flowers, care and unremitting labor must be applied.

Now we present before you the necessity of constant resistance to evil. All heaven is interested in men and women whom God has valued so much as to give His beloved Son to die to redeem them. No other creature that God has made is capable of such improvement, such refinement, such nobility as man. Then when men become blunted by their own debasing passions, sunken in vice, what a specimen for God to look upon! Man cannot conceive what he may be and what he may become. Through the grace of Christ he is capable of constant mental progress. Let the light of truth shine into his mind and the love of God be shed abroad in his heart and he may, through the grace Christ has died to impart to him, be a man of power—a child of earth but an heir of immortality. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

Letters to the Editor CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-09-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: Letters to the Editor

Author: Paul Michael Garrison

Genre: Mystery/Suspense

Release Date: November, 2019

Writing is hard. Editing is murder.

Editor Nathanael Carver has made a career out of exposing corruption and publishing people’s dirty secrets. From his hate mail, it seems one of his high-profile enemies wants revenge. But the person with murder in mind may be someone closer to home.

Carver enlists the help of Kate Baxter, a police detective with problems of her own: disapproving parents, sexist coworkers, and a smoking habit she can’t seem to kick. The support of her tribe and ample time at the gun range help to keep her sane. As her personal life and the case bleed together, Kate gains insight into Carver’s world, keeping her eye on those closest to him. Kate is on the cusp of progress when Carver, against her advice, drops the case—only to be viciously attacked. Now it’s Kate’s turn to drag everyone’s dirty secrets into the light, but not before at least one body hits the floor.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Originally from the Midwest, Paul Michael Garrison has spent roughly half his life in Upstate South Carolina. His published novels include Letters to the Editor and its sequel, The Lies People Publish. He holds degrees in publishing, theater, and creative writing (MFA). He has written for the stage, and his short fiction has appeared in The Windhover, Quantum Fairy Tales, and Heart of Flesh. Paul Michael frequently performs with the Greenville Shakespeare Company. Whether on stage or in writing, he enjoys the art of becoming someone else.

My Thoughts

Paul Michael Garrison is a new-to-me author, with Letters to the Editor being a compelling introduction. My attention was captured from the beginning, and maintained until the end.

One is kept guessing all the way through, with twists and surprises along the way. The characters are relatable. I especially enjoyed meeting Kate Baxter, who was somewhat reluctantly drawn into the case, but soon found it consuming.

If you enjoy Christian mystery or suspense, you'll want this added to your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Paul

The Creation of Kate Baxter: Meeting the Detective of Letters to the Editor

How do you come up with your characters?

It’s one of the most frequent questions I (and probably a lot of authors) get at book events. Some authors talk about their characters as creations, while others insist their characters come to them fully formed, gradually revealing themselves to the writer. As with most writing philosophies, I personally tend to fall in the middle.

But I can tell you that Detective Kate Baxter in her trademark trench coat did not spring from my imagination fully formed like Athena from the mind of Zeus. Several thoughtful factors came into play during her creation.

The Mystery Came First

For many novelists, the character comes first, but Letters to the Editor began with the mystery. I imagine that’s common for mystery writers. It was an idea I’d had for some time, just simmering in the back of my brain.

It wasn’t until I signed up for a novel-writing class that I decided to actually flesh the mystery out and put it down on paper. So, if I was going to write a classic mystery, I was going to need a detective.

The Professional Detective

Cozy mysteries can be great fun, but in a series (and they usually end up as series) I find the trope of the amateur detective who constantly stumbles into one mystery after another a bit strained. Requiring a high suspension of disbelief, it works best in comic, here-we-go-again scenarios.

I wanted to create a world that felt more grounded and to leave the window open for my detective to come back (which she did in The Lies People Publish). And that’s one reason Kate serves on the Fulton Springs Police Department.

The Girl Next Door

I recall feeling bombarded at the time by burned-out detectives, whether in literature, film, or television. The investigator whose life is an unholy shambles, who’s nursing a substance abuse problem (usually alcohol), whose family or private life is completely shattered. I kept seeing these broken-down characters, and they just depressed me. I struggled to relate to them in any way. With their addictions and psychological damage, I questioned how legitimately they could function in everyday life, let alone track down murderers and other criminals.

I wanted a more relatable detective, not a beleaguered trainwreck nor a genius human computer of the Sherlockian variety. I wanted someone who, even if you couldn’t relate to her directly, you could imagine her living next door.

When an interviewer referred to Kate as a bit of a hot mess, I must admit I got defensive for a moment. And then I realized that she probably is—the way all of us are in the right light. She struggles with her relationships and goals and with living out her values and beliefs as most thoughtful people do.

When I began the novel, I had a female friend who was a police officer. Kate is not based on her, but I won’t deny that my friend (and her stories) inspired some of Kate’s characteristics, her tribe of friends, and even a few anecdotes that worked their way into the story.

Midwestern Woman of Faith

While I live in the South, I grew up in the Midwest. At the time of writing, I felt I could more accurately capture the Midwestern sensibility than a Southern one, both for Kate’s character and the setting in general. Plus, my publishing background (I was a book editor at the time) was going to inform the novel’s setting, and the Chicago metro area seemed a more likely representative of that world.

My writing instructor called Kate “a church-going detective,” which made me laugh a little. If, in forming Kate, I was reacting against the broken-down detective, I was also reacting against the portrayal of Christians in the arts. There seemed to be two extremes: in Christian fiction, the Pollyannaish Christian who lived a sanitized version of life, and in mainstream literature, religious hypocrites and wackadoos. I realize that may be a tad reductive, but that’s how it felt. Why couldn’t we have something a little more authentic, more fair, more nuanced?

While not necessarily tackling a spiritual journey, I wanted to show Christians in real-world, everyday contexts. I know some readers may find Kate’s faith alienating, but no reader is going to agree or sympathize with every character they read. That’s only natural. But as I researched the genre, I found mainstream novels with detectives with all kinds of worldviews, so why not a mainstream novel with a Christian detective?

Introducing Kate Baxter

These influences formed the initial skeleton of Detective Kate Baxter, but they don’t begin to paint the entire picture of the character she developed into—the insecurities and challenges she faces as a single woman; her love for her friends, her pets, and classic literature; or her belief that the best therapy is found at a gun range. If you haven’t already, I hope you’ll pick up a copy of Letters to the Editor and meet her yourself.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 10

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 10

Leslie’s Library Escape, September 11

Vicky Sluiter, September 12 (Author Interview)

Book Looks by Lisa, September 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 14

Texas Book-aholic, September 15

For the Love of Literature, September 16 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, September 17

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 18

For Him and My Family, September 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 20

Lily’s Corner, September 21

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 22 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, September 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 23

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Paul is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Amazon Gift Card and a signed copy of the book and its sequel!!

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

https://gleam.io/XImFE/letters-to-the-editor-celebration-tour-giveaway

Thawing the Frontiersman's Heart CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-09-13T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: Thawing the Frontiersman’s Heart

Author: Andrea Byrd

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: August 25, 2026

A missing father. A deadly storm. And a stranger who may be more dangerous than the wilderness.

Kentucky Territory, 1785
Roisin Duncan has spent her life guarding secrets—her father’s failing mind, her own quiet eccentricities, and the fear that one misstep could see them both locked away like the aunt she lost. But when her father disappears into the wilderness caves he loves, Roisin has no choice but to venture beyond the safety of her carefully controlled world. Caught in a brutal snowstorm, she finds refuge at the cabin of Jared McFadin—a man as scarred on the outside as he is within.

Haunted by war, Jared has built a life of isolation on the edge of his family’s land, convinced he is more danger than protector. But when a desperate young woman arrives at his door, he cannot turn her away.

As they search the treacherous caverns and race against time to find Roisin’s father, the greater danger may not be the wilderness, but the fears that have kept them both imprisoned. To survive, Roisin and Jared must risk what they’ve guarded most—their trust, their hearts, and the fragile hope that love might be stronger than their weaknesses.

Perfect for fans of Lori Wick and Janette Oke.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Andrea Byrd is a small-town wife and mom from southern Kentucky who harbors a deep love of days gone by, expressed with pioneer skirts and a once-in-a-lifetime ride in an authentic biplane. She seeks to respect the past, giving voice to those that came before, while reminding readers that no aspect of their past defines them.

My Thoughts

Even though Thawing the Frontiersman's Heart is the second book in the "Wilderness Romance" series, it can be read as a stand alone.

The Kentucky wilderness setting is descriptive, which makes it easy to picture in one's mind. Jared and Roisin are relatable with all their flaws and imperfections.

Jared suffers from physical scars and PTSD from his time as a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Because of the physical scars and the nightmares he suffers, he's resigned himself to life without a family of his own.

Roisin, with her OCD tendencies, cares for her father whose mental capacity seems to be fading away. She is also resigned to a life of no husband and children of her own. But then when her father wanders off and she has to search for him in bitter winter conditions, and meets Jared, who in gallant manner, helps her search for her father, their lives become intertwined in unexpected ways.

I can relate to Roisin's fear for her father. My mother had dementia, and her mother had Alzheimer's. I know how hard that slow fade is. And I struggle somewhat with PTSD myself (not from war, but from other traumatic experiences).

If you enjoy historical fiction, with a touch of faith, you will want to add this one to your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Andrea

Prior to becoming officially recognized by the American Psychiatric Association in 1980, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) went by many names including Combat Fatigue, Shell Shock, and Soldier’s Heart. However, none of these categorizations even came about until the Civil War.

When considering the horrors faced by the soldiers that fought for our freedom 250 years ago, though, there is no doubt that it would have had a lasting effect on the mental health of a great number of men. And yet, during the Revolutionary War, the only term used for any kind of anxiety or sleeplessness amongst soldiers was simply Nostalgia.

But we all know that PTSD is extensively complicated, rather than simple homesickness. Not only can it bring flashbacks and nightmares, but it can cause hypervigilance, insomnia, and considerably more. It affects a person’s thoughts, behavior, mood, and overall quality of life.

In this Wilderness Romance series, and particularly in Thawing the Frontiersman’s Heart, I strove to give readers a small glimpse of what this might have looked like for the Revolutionary War soldiers to which we owe so much.

I pray that it serves to bring awareness to the struggles that many men during the time likely faced in darkness, without recognition or support. And I hope that you enjoy both Jared and Roisin’s stories as they each strive to find freedom from the confines of their own minds.

Happy Reading!

Andrea Byrd

Blog Stops

Devoted Steps, September 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 2

Texas Book-aholic, September 3

For Him and My Family, September 4

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 5

Devoted To Hope, September 6

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 7

lakesidelivingsite, September 8

Books, Books, & More Books, September 9 (Author Interview)

Avid Reader Nurse, September 9

Blossoms and Blessings, September 10

Holly’s Book Corner, September 11

Pause for Tales, September 12

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 13

Lyssa Loves Books, September 14

Cover Lover Book Review, September 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Andrea is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/VzZoo/thawing-the-frontiersmans-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

Perfection in the Human Sphere {a devotional}

2026-09-12T03:00:00.000-04:00

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48.

Our Saviour understood all about human nature, and He says to every human being. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” As God is perfect in His sphere, so man is to be perfect in his sphere. Those who receive Christ are among the number to whom the words so full of hope are spoken. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” These words declare to us that we should be content with nothing less than the best and highest character, a character formed after the divine similitude. When such a character is possessed, the life, the faith, the purity of the religion, is an instructive example to others.

But those who are waiting to behold a magical change in their characters without determined effort on their part to overcome sin, will be disappointed. We have no reason to fear while looking to Jesus, no reason to doubt but that He is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto Him; but we may constantly fear lest our old nature will again obtain the supremacy, that the enemy shall devise some snare whereby we shall again become his captives. We are to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God that worketh in you to will and to do of His good pleasure. With our limited powers we are to be as holy in our sphere as God is holy in His sphere. To the extent of our ability, we are to make manifest the truth and love and excellence of the divine character. As wax takes the impression of the seal, so the soul is to take the impression of the Spirit of God and retain the image of Christ.

We are to grow daily in spiritual loveliness. We shall fail often in our efforts to copy the divine pattern. We shall often have to bow down to weep at the feet of Jesus, because of our shortcomings and mistakes; but we are not to be discouraged; we are to pray more fervently, believe more fully, and try again with more steadfastness to grow into the likeness of our Lord. As we distrust our own power, we shall trust the power of our Redeemer, and render praise to God, who is the health of our countenance, and our God. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

A Contrary Betrothal CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-09-06T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: A Contrary Betrothal

Author: Denise Farnsworth writing as Denise Weimer

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: August 18, 2026

A Cherokee lieutenant, a colonel’s daughter, and a desperate fight to protect both land and love.

Sam Hicks may be the educated son of a Cherokee chief, but his command of multiple languages and diplomatic skills can’t erase the prejudice he faces as a mixed-blood warrior. When he’s tasked with guarding Colonel Moore’s spirited daughter, Susanna, at a wilderness fort, he never expects to lose his heart to a woman he can never have.

Susanna Moore dreams of making her own way on the frontier like her Cherokee stepmother. The last thing she wants is an arranged marriage to the fort’s stuffy doctor—especially after she meets the noble and intelligent Sam Hicks. When she’s captured by a turncoat warrior during a Creek uprising, Sam risks everything to save her.

Their shared values and growing love give them hope—but with the Creek War raging and cultural pressures mounting, can a Cherokee lieutenant and a colonel’s daughter overcome the loyalties and prejudices set against them?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

North Georgia native Denise Farnsworth, formerly Denise Weimer, has authored over twenty traditionally published novels and novellas—historical and contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and time slip. As a freelance editor and Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books, she’s helped other authors reach their publishing dreams. A wife and mother of two adult daughters, Denise always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.

My Thoughts

A Contrary Betrothal (originally published as Bent Tree Bride) is the sixth book of "The Scouts of the Georgia Frontier" series, and as is typical of Farnsworth, is well researched and well written. It can be read as a stand alone.

As you know (if you've been reading my blog for very long) that I love history, so historical fiction is my favorite genre. When actual historical figures pop up in that book, all the better! For example, mention is made of Andrew Jackson, and David Crockett, as well as John Ross (a name I ran across in some of my personal research on my ex-husband). Another reason this story appealed to me is, I know I have some Cherokee anscestry in my family.

I could really feel for both Sam and Susannah, and their growing attraction for each other in spite of some impossible odds against them. Although she is white, her step mother is Cherokee. But her father wants her to marry a white man. Sam is mixed race, white and Cherokee, and faces prejudice from both sides.

The setting is 1813, during the conflict between the Red Stick Indians and the American/Cherokee forces. Some of the brutality is eluded to, but nothing graphic.

If you enjoy historical fiction, with a touch of romance and a dose of faith, you will want to add this to your TBR list (as well as the rest of the series).

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Denise

The seed idea for A Contrary Betrothal came from another author a number of years ago. She proposed a collection of stories in which the heroes were all Native Americans who served their country in different wars. I still love the idea even though it never came to pass! In fact, I loved it so much, I went ahead and wrote my story. And that story became Bent Tree Bride, first published with Smitten Romance. Now, it’s joining my Scouts of the Georgia Frontier series as book six.

Many people are unaware that the Cherokees fought alongside American troops under Andrew Jackson during the Creek War or Red Stick War, a portion of the War of 1812 that occurred in present-day Alabama. The Creek people were allied to the British, as the Cherokees themselves had been during the American Revolution. The motivation for this was, of course, to keep their land. Their warriors were so valuable to Jackson that they broke the ineffective cannonade on the town of Tohopeka, swimming across the river from behind and making the victory possible that ended the war at Horseshoe Bend.

Sam Hicks, the hero of A Contrary Betrothal, is a mixed-blood Cherokee lieutenant with the head of a scholar and the heart of a warrior. His struggle to intermingle the old ways and the new ways proves reflective of the metamorphosis of his people. Even though he’s been educated as the wealthy son of a chief, he knows his white colonel’s daughter, Susanna Moore, is out of his reach. But when he’s assigned to guard her and her little brother at a wilderness fort, he can no longer deny his attraction to the feisty young woman who’s determined to convince her father she can survive on the frontier as well as her Cherokee stepmother.

A Contrary Betrothal will resonate with readers who enjoy stories by authors like Laura Frantz, Shannon McNear, Michelle Griep, and Lori Benton. The forbidden love and fish out of water tropes create plenty of angst, and the battlefield scenes echo Last of the Mohicans. When people have asked me which of my books would translate well onto the big screen, in fact, this is one I think of. I invite you, dear reader, to be swept away by the action and romance of my final book of the Scouts of the Georgia Frontier.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, August 25

lakesidelivingsite, August 26

Books, Books, & More Books, August 27 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 27

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 30

Cover Lover Book Review, August 31

Jeanette’s Thoughts , September 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 2

Connie’s History Classroom, September 3

Simple Harvest Reads, September 4 (Guest Review from Donna)

Blossoms and Blessings, September 5

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 6

Holly’s Book Corner, September 7

Pause for Tales, September 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Denise is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/7zfBE/a-contrary-betrothal-celebration-tour-giveaway

Reaching the Height of Christian Perfection {a devotional}

2026-09-05T03:00:00.000-04:00

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Ephesians 3:20.

If you make God your strength, you may, under the most discouraging circumstances, attain a height and breadth of Christian perfection which you hardly think it possible to reach. Your thoughts may be elevated, you may have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, and purposes of action which shall raise you above all sordid motives.

Both thought and action will be necessary if you would attain to perfection of character. While brought in contact with the world, you should be on your guard that you do not seek too ardently for the applause of men and live for their opinion.... Cultivate the grace of humility, and hang your helpless souls upon Christ.... In the midst of confusion and temptation in the worldly crowd you may, with perfect sweetness, keep the independence of the soul.

If you are in daily communion with God you will learn to place His estimate upon men, and the obligations resting upon you to bless suffering humanity will meet with a willing response. You are not your own; your Lord has sacred claims upon your supreme affections and the very highest services of your life. He has a right to use you, in your body and in your spirit, to the fullest extent of your capabilities, for His own honor and glory. Whatever crosses you may be required to bear, ... you are to accept without a murmur....

Many are without God and without hope in the world. They are guilty, corrupt, and degraded, enslaved by Satan’s devices. Yet these are the ones whom Christ came from heaven to redeem. They are subjects for tenderest pity, sympathy, and tireless effort; for they are on the verge of ruin. They suffer from ungratified desires, disordered passions, and the condemnation of their own consciences; they are miserable in every sense of the word, for they are losing their hold on this life and have no prospect for the life to come.

You have an important field of labor, and you should be active and vigilant, rendering cheerful and unqualified obedience to the Master’s calls. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

Art of Writing Conference JustRead Tour

2026-09-04T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for the Art of Writing 2026, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Conference

The Art of Writing conference will be held on November 6 in Nashville at the Sonesta Nashville Airport Hotel, Tennessee. This focused, four-session conference will bring together writers, storytellers, and publishing professionals, curated by Thomas Nelson Fiction's Laura Wheeler.

Session One: State of the Industry: What's Changing, What's Selling, and What You Can Do About It

The Christian fiction marketplace is shifting—and the authors who thrive will be the ones who understand why. This panel of publishing professionals opens with a data-driven look at the current state of Christian publishing, drawing on the latest market research to map what's actually moving books today. From there, the conversation gets practical: how platform sales really work, what authors can do to actively support their books, and why audio is the format no one can afford to ignore. Whether you're traditionally published or exploring indie paths, you'll leave with a clearer picture of the industry landscape and concrete next steps for your own author education.

Panel moderated by Laura Wheeler, and featuring Kelsey Bowen, Stephanie Broene, Nick Gilbert, Becky Monds, and Kerri Potts.

Session Two: AI and the Christian Author: Ethics, Opportunity, and a Rapidly Changing Landscape

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the publishing landscape faster than anyone predicted—and for many authors, it's raising as many questions as it eyebrows. This panel brings together diverse industry voices to cut through the noise with clarity and hard-won wisdom. What can AI legitimately help you do? Where are the ethical lines—and why do they keep moving? What do you need to know to protect yourself legally and act with integrity as a creative? This session is about being informed, staying anchored in your values, and navigating a fast-changing landscape with wisdom.

Panel moderated by Jeff Crosby, and featuring Chad Harrington, Hannah Johnson, and Joshua Tallent.

Session Three: Soul of the Writer, Heart of the Story: Writing Fiction That Reaches Every Reader

The metrics are loud. The algorithms are relentless. And somewhere in the middle of it all, there's a writer trying to create something that actually matters. This session begins with the writer and asks what it takes to stay spiritually and creatively whole in an industry that never stops measuring. From that foundation, the conversation moves into craft: how do you write fiction that carries deep conviction without losing readers who don't share your faith? What's the difference between a story that illuminates and one that lectures? How do you make those choices at the level of character, scene, and structure? This is a session for authors who believe their stories are for something—and want to write them in a way that proves it.

Panel moderated by Amanda Cox, and featuring Amanda Dykes, T.I. Lowe, Johanna Vann, and Roseanna M. White.

Session Four: Fix That Manuscript: Inside the Author-Editor Relationship

What actually happens when an editor gets their hands on your manuscript—and how do the best author-editor partnerships improve the work without making it smaller? This Q&A session pulls back the curtain on the editorial process with real manuscript pages, real edits, and a real conversation between an author and editor who have done this work together. You'll learn the difference between different levels of editing and walk away with a clearer understanding of what to expect—and how to get the most—from your editorial relationships.

Panel featuring Laura Wheeler, Vanessa Miller, and Marybeth Whalen.

Learn More about Art of Writing 2026

New: Beyond the Books

Add-On: Get to Know the Finalist Authors during this special morning gathering of authors and readers.

Meet and hear the hearts of the 2026 finalist authors in this intimate time of connection between authors and their readers, hosted by Amanda Dykes and ECPA President Jeff Crosby. Available to anyone registering for a single event or the bundle. Featured finalist authors will be posted on The Christy Award website after the Finalists Reveal webinar.

Learn More about Beyond the Books

The Christy Award Finalists Reveal

Christian fiction fans are invited to register and watch the free webcast announcement of The Christy Award finalists in nine categories live on September 11 at 10 a.m. CST, featuring Christy Hall of Fame author Chris Fabry and ECPA president Jeff Crosby.

“With each passing year, I am more aware of the power that stories have to communicate goodness, truth, beauty and hope in our world,” states ECPA president Jeff Crosby. “And because of that, I am honored to be associated with the annual Christy Gala, which honors excellence in Christian fiction, and the Art of Writing conference that nurtures the work of writers of faith and contributes tools as they refine their craft.” The Christy Award® is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) and is the foremost award honoring and promoting excellence in Christian fiction since 1999. For more information about ECPA, visit ECPA.org. For more information about the Christy Awards and Art of Writing conferences, visit ChristyAwards.com or email TheChristyAward@ecpa.org

Register Now for The Art of Writing & The Christy Award events

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive their choice of The Art of Writing registration OR print copies of The Christy Award finalist titles for one category!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 4, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 11, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

A Guided Gratitude Journal CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-09-04T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: A Guided Gratitude Journal

Author: Donna Wyland

Genre: Nonfiction/Christian Guided Journal

Release Date: September, 2025

What would you change in your life if you could? Scientific and faith-based research prove that gratitude is the key! 5 minutes a day/7 days a week/7 weeks. CHANGE YOUR MINDSET. CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Let today be the day your new life begins!

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Donna Wyland is an award-winning author of fiction, nonfiction, and picture books. Her most recent gift book, Last Best Year – A Short Guide to a Grateful Life – is a Golden Scroll Award Winner, and her picture books, ‘Twas the Night Before Jesus and Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts were both Readers’ Choice Award Finalists.‘Twas the Night Before Jesus also won the Illumination Award Silver Medal and Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts was the Christian Indie Award winner for picture books.

Though she began a career in financial planning, God interrupted those plans and called her to write more than twenty years ago. Donna responded, “Yes, Lord,” and today has numerous books, essays, and blogs attributed to her name.

In the future, Donna hopes to continue writing guided journals to encourage and inspire people’s faith and confidence in God and themselves. As a Certified Christian Life Coach, Donna learned the value of asking powerful questions. Through her guided journals she hopes to lead readers to greater clarity, peace, and purpose as they read, consider, and reply to the questions asked.

Donna is grateful for her husband, four grown daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. She and her husband currently live in Southwest Florida, but her passion for travel frequently takes her to other states and countries around the world. Only God knows where she will live in five years. Thankfully she has a husband who says he will follow her wherever she goes.

My Thoughts

Practicing gratitude has been a daily habit of mine for a few years now. Basically I've just been recording each day something for which I am grateful.

The idea of a guided gratitude journal appealed to me, with giving me some prompts to help me recognize something new to write in my faith journal.

I like A Guided Gratitude Journal. Each day begins with a paragraph or two of thoughts by the author, followed by a list of questions to help you recognize something specific for which to be grateful, even asking why you're grateful and how it impacts your life.

At the back of the book are several daily gratitude pages on which to record what you're grateful for.

If you're looking for a resource to assist you in developing the habit of gratitude, I recommend A Guided Gratitude Journal.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Donna

What would you change in your life if you could? Scientific and faith-based research prove that gratitude is the key! 5 minutes a day/7 days a week for 7 weeks could change your life. Let today be the day your new life begins!

This journal was inspired by God and written as a result of many personal losses in my life. As I tried to move toward healing, I felt like I was still walking under a dark cloud each day, faking happiness and joy as I went about my responsibilities as a wife, mother, and grandmother. I was still hurting and desperately wanted to know why. That’s when I did a deep dive on the topic of gratitude and discovered its tremendous power to heal.

I pray that this journal becomes a legacy of readers’ journeys to joy, emotional and physical health, peace, and a thankful way of life. God knows you and sees you. He is excited to hear your praise and watch you grow into a gratitude-filled man or woman of God who lights the world on fire simply by being your wonderful, beautiful, joyful self.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 22

Texas Book-aholic, August 23

Simple Harvest Reads, August 24 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 26

Its Mama Safe, August 27

Guild Master, August 28 (Author Interview)

The Vine and The Branch, August 28

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 29

Fiction Book Lover, August 30 (Author Interview)

Book Looks by Lisa, August 31

Cover Lover Book Review, September 1

Devoted to Hope, September 2

Mary Hake, September 2

Artistic Nobody, September 3

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://gleam.io/tkOYA/a-guided-gratitude-journal-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Song of Our Heart JustRead Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-09-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Song of Our Heart by Kathy Dye, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Song of Our Heart: Remembering God's Faithfulness Through Every Season
Author: Kathy Dye
Publisher: Westbow Press
Release Date: April 9, 2026
Genre: Bible Study

Life doesn’t always sound like we expect. Disappointments come, relationships fracture, health fails, and dreams fade. In these moments, we need something—Someone—to be the steady song of our hearts.

The Song of Our Heart presents a five-week Bible study journey through Psalm 71. It provides a way to discover how to make God your song through every season of life—not just the easy ones, but especially the hard ones. This isn’t about superficial positivity or pretending everything is fine. It’s about honest faith that clings to God when life is messy. Through daily readings, reflection questions, and practical application, you’ll explore what it means to find God as your refuge when you’re overwhelmed, your hope when circumstances look bleak, and your praise even when you don’t feel like singing. Each week focuses on a specific aspect of making God your song:

Week 1: God Is Our Song
Week 2: A Life Led by God
Week 3: God as Our Refuge
Week 4: God as Our Hope
Week 5: God as Our Praise

Whether you’re in a season of joy or walking through shadows, this study will help you rediscover that God isn’t just with you—He is your song. And when He becomes your song, you’ll be able to build a legacy of faith that sings long after you’re gone.

Excerpt

From “The Master’s Song”

— The story of Lilly the lamb

“Meet Lilly, the wandering lamb every one of us has been.”

Did you know that God sings over us? Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love, He will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing.” Yet often, like sheep, we wander away, too caught up in our desires to hear His song.

In a green pasture bordered by gentle hills, there lived a shepherd who knew each of his sheep by name. He was a kind Master who watched over his flock day and night, singing songs of love and protection as he tended them. Among his sheep was a young lamb named Lilly, who, like many young ones, had a habit of wandering.

“Lilly, please come back to the flock,” her mother would call, watching her daughter chase butterflies across the field. “You know how dangerous it is out there.” But Lilly was too enchanted by the butterfly’s dance to listen. “Oh, Mama, it’s so much fun! Look how it flutters around my head!” she would laugh, bouncing further away.

Each evening, the master would call his sheep home, counting them by name as they passed through the gate. “Hello, Lilly,” he would say with knowing eyes and a gentle smile. “I see you had quite an adventure with that butterfly today. Try not to wander too far—I wouldn’t want to lose you.”

My Thoughts

From the description at the beginning of Lilly the lamb, and how the shepherd cared so tenderly for his sheep, all the while singing, I was captivated with this devotional Bible study. I had never taken the time to imagine our Good Shepherd singing over us, while caring for us. What a lovely picture!

Throughout this Bible study, we are encouraged to see God as our song, our refuge, our hope, our praise. It is designed to be a five-week Bible study, with five daily devotionals each week. Each day there are a guided prayer, a devotional thought, questions for discussion, thoughts for reflection, activities to do, prompts for journaling.

One activity that captured my attention is to create a timeline of your faith journey, interwoven with life's milestones. It can give you a visual of your personal testimony.

I would like to get copies of this Bible study to give to my daughter and daughters-in-law. It would also be great for a ladies' Bible study group, small group studies, or even as a family Bible study or individual study. If you are looking for your next Bible study for any of these situations, I certainly recommend The Song of Our Heart.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

About the Author

Kathy Dye resides in Evansville, Indiana, with her husband Sid. A retired elementary teacher turned Christian author and speaker, Kathy has taught women's Bible studies for over 40 years. She is the author of A Song in Her Heart, the Kit Kat Camp series, and the newly released Bible study The Song of Our Heart—a five-week journey through Psalm 71 helping women make God the song of their hearts through every season of life. Her commitment is to equip mothers and women to build a legacy of faith across generations.

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

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of The Song of Our Heart and a $10 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 1, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 8, 2026. 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

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

The Reluctant Healer of Halifax CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-08-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: The Reluctant Healer of Halifax

Author: Terrie Todd

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: August, 2026

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?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Terrie Todd is a Canadian author of nine historical and split-time novels and one nonfiction book. Her work has earned numerous Word Awards from The Word Guild, the 2018 Janette Oke Award from Inscribe Christian Writers Fellowship, and the 2022 Braun Book Award. She is also a Carol Award Finalist. From 2010-2024, she wrote a weekly “Faith and Humor” column for her hometown newspaper, and since 2021, a monthly column for the Heroes, Heroines, and History blog. Terrie lives with her husband, Jon, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, where they raised their three children. They are grandparents to five boys.

My Thoughts

The Reluctant Healer of Halifax is the 6th book in the "Enduring Hope" series, and the first book I have read by Terrie Todd. I have enjoyed every book I've read of the series.

I was captivated from the beginning of The Reluctant Healer of Halifax, and willingly lost sleep while reading. I have a deep interest in the history of Nova Scotia, since I have ancestry origins there, so I was especially interested in this novel based on a true event.

The characters are complex and well developed. I enjoyed watching their faith and relationships grow throughout the story. Oliver was a little frustrating at times, the way he thought he knew what was best for Pearline, without even giving her a choice.

Sophia especially captured my heart, and twisted my heart for her and what she witnessed and experienced. If you have a sensitive imagination, there might be parts of this story you may want to avoid, especially when Sophia was describing her drawings in her sketchbook. It is, after all, a story based on a horrific disaster.

If you enjoy historical fiction, with a touch of romance and a dose of faith, I highly recommend this one for your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Terrie

It wasn’t until I was interviewing a friend for a newspaper column that the Halifax Explosion of 1917 began to interest me. My friend, Gene, had gone blind from macular degeneration, and I wanted to write a series of columns about what it was like for him to lose his sight and now live with blindness. One of the books Gene mentioned as having inspired him was the true story of Eric Davidson. At the time of the explosion, Eric was a toddler, playing with his toy car on a windowsill in his Halifax home. The glass exploded, permanently blinding Eric. The north end of Halifax was destroyed, and roughly two thousand residents died. Nine thousand more were wounded, including hundreds blinded or partially blinded by flying glass. The mass blinding helped birth the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). Eric’s daughter, Marilyn Davidson Elliott, wrote the book The Blind Mechanic about her father.

I found Eric’s story fascinating. When given the opportunity to try for a spot in Barbour’s series of books about historical disasters, I decided to write one about the Halifax explosion. The more I researched, the more I wondered why we didn’t learn about this in school, and the harder it was to imagine the devastation that the city and its people survived. This was during a world war and only five years after being highly involved in the recovery of the Titanic’s victims and survivors, a disaster that helped prepare them for this one. Story after story, many revealing the incredible determination of the stalwart people of Nova Scotia and the Bostonians who came to their aid, moved me to tears. It was difficult to choose which experiences to borrow for my characters. I was thrilled to visit Halifax in 2025, a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Naturally, the book includes some blind and partially blind characters. I so appreciate the input from my two blind beta readers, Alexandra Banwell and Leanne Merren. One of my favorite things to do with each book I launch is to choose a charity to which I give a portion of the proceeds from my local book launch. For this book, I’ve chosen the CNIB’s Guide Dog program.

Although my book never became a part of that series, Barbour decided it would be a good fit for their “Enduring Hope” series. The rest is, literally, history. I’m thrilled to be part of this series and have enjoyed the first five immensely. I hope you read them all!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 26

Devoted Steps, August 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 27

Texas Book-aholic, August 28

Pause for Tales, August 29

For Him and My Family, August 29

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 31

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 2

Connie’s History Classroom, September 3

Cover Lover Book Review, September 4

Sydney Schmied Books, September 5

Mary Hake, September 5

Blossoms and Blessings , September 6

The Bookish Pilgrim, September 7

Devoted to Hope, September 7

Holly’s Book Corner, September 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Terrie is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card and a print copy of the book!!

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

https://gleam.io/9yOdf/the-reluctant-healer-of-halifax-celebration-tour-giveaway

Character a Quality of the Soul {a devotional}

2026-08-29T03:00:00.000-04:00

No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies. Job 28:18.

A character formed according to the divine likeness is the only treasure that we can take from this world to the next. Those who are under the instruction of Christ in this world will take every divine attainment with them to the heavenly mansions. And in heaven we are continually to improve....

Mental ability and genius are not character, for these are often possessed by those who have the very opposite of a good character. Reputation is not character. True character is a quality of the soul, revealing itself in the conduct.

A good character is a capital of more value than gold or silver. It is unaffected by panics or failures, and in that day when earthly possessions shall be swept away, it will bring rich returns. Integrity, firmness, and perseverance are qualities that all should seek earnestly to cultivate; for they clothe the possessor with a power which is irresistible—a power which makes him strong to do good, strong to resist evil, strong to bear adversity.

Strength of character consists of two things—power of will and power of self-control. Many youth mistake strong, uncontrolled passion for strength of character; but the truth is that he who is mastered by his passions is a weak man. The real greatness and nobility of the man is measured by his powers to subdue his feelings, not by the power of his feelings to subdue him. The strongest man is he who, while sensitive to abuse, will yet restrain passion and forgive his enemies.

If it were considered as important that the young possess a beautiful character and amiable disposition as it is that they imitate the fashions of the world in dress and deportment, we would see hundreds where there is one today coming upon the stage of active life prepared to exert an ennobling influence upon society. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

Shetland Sunset CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-08-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: Shetland Sunset

Author: Linda Shenton Matchett

Genre: Christian Suspense

Release Date: January 18, 2026

Bonded by a cause but an ocean apart, will their love survive a world war?

After months in Norway helping his cousins with their fishing business, American Askel Westgard seems trapped when the Germans invade until he has a chance to get back at the Occupiers as part of the Shetlandsgjengen, or Shetland gang, a group of fishermen who transport weapons and equipment from Shetland to Norway under cover of darkness. Unfortunately, the beautiful Norwegian woman he’s just met refuses to join him in safety. Will he ever see her again?

Distraught when the Germans overrun her beloved Norway, Tonje Bondevik refuses to take the occupation sitting down. She joins the fledgling resistance movement, deriving great satisfaction distributing the underground newspaper and performing acts of sabotage…until the day the Nazis come looking for her, and she must flee for her life. Perhaps she should have listened to the handsome Norwegian American when he offered to take her to Shetland.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Linda Shenton Matchett writes happily-ever-after historical Christian fiction about second chances and women who overcome life’s challenges to be better versions of themselves.

A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star-Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historical places all her life. She is a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum of WWII. She now lives in central New Hampshire where she explores the history of this great state, immerses herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors, and drinks copious amounts of tea.

My Thoughts

Shetland Sunset is the first book of "The Resistance Chronicles." What a great start to a new series!

World War II is one of my favorite eras of history to read about; I like discovering new aspects of the time period. I admire the courage of the Norwegians, smuggling in supplies and ferrying refugees out of the country, virtually under the Germans' noses...all done during the dark days and nights of winter.

I enjoyed watching the relationship between Askel and Tanje grow, and witnessing Tanje's faith grow from a tiny mustard seed, through encouragement from Askel and a couple kind pastors.

If you enjoy Christian historical romance set during World War II, this is a must read. I will admit, I am eager for the rest of the series!

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Linda

Shetland, also called the Shetland Islands, is an archipelago of about one hundred islands, with fewer than twenty being inhabited. Originally a base for Norwegian Vikings, Shetland came under Scottish rule when King Christian I pledged the island as part of his daughter’s dowry when she was betrothed to James III of Scotland. The island continues to feature an intriguing mix of Norwegian and Scottish heritage in customs, language, and celebrations. Interestingly, Shetland is geographically closer to Norway than Scotland.

The Shetland Bus is the nickname for a World War II clandestine operation during which fishermen smuggled supplies, weapons, radio operators, and agents into occupied Norway and ferried refugees out of Norway to Shetland and England. From 1941-1945, two hundred missions were carried in winter because of the nearly twenty-four hours of darkness that occurred during those months, but that meant crossing in rough, unforgiving seas. Additionally, the risk of being caught by German aircraft or patrol boats was high, and forty-four members lost their lives.

Authors get their ideas and inspiration from many sources, and I learned about the Shetland Bus from an episode of Shetland, a modern-day BBC mystery show that featured a fictional cold case associated with the “bus.” I was able to read multiple memoirs and autobiographies and watch oral history interviews with Shetland Bus participants. It is my hope that Shetland Sunset honors the brave ordinary men who did extraordinary things.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 13

Texas Book-aholic, August 14

Holly’s Book Corner, August 14

Artistic Nobody, August 15 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 17

lakesidelivingsite, August 18

Fiction Book Lover, August 19 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 20

Devoted to Hope, August 21

The Bookish Ledger, August 22 (Author Interview)

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 23

Pause for Tales, August 24

The Bookish Pilgrim, August 24

Leslie’s Library Escape, August 25

Guild Master, August 26 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Visa gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

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

https://gleam.io/pjJS9/shetland-sunset-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Substance of Moral Character {a devotional}

2026-08-22T03:00:00.000-04:00

Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you. 2 Corinthians 10:15.

You should keep off from Satan’s enchanted ground and not allow your minds to be swayed from allegiance to God. Through Christ you may and should be happy and should acquire habits of self-control. Even your thoughts must be brought into subjection to the will of God and your feelings under the control of reason and religion. Your imagination was not given you to be allowed to run riot and have its own way without any effort at restraint or discipline. If the thoughts are wrong the feelings will be wrong, and the thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral character.... If you yield to your impressions and allow your thoughts to run in a channel of suspicion, doubt, and repining you will be among the most unhappy of mortals....

Dear Sister F, you have a diseased imagination; and you dishonor God by allowing your feelings to have complete control of your reason and judgment. You have a determined will, which causes the mind to react upon the body, unbalancing the circulation and producing congestion in certain organs; and you are sacrificing health to your feelings.

You are making a mistake, which, if not corrected, will not end with wrecking your own happiness merely. You are doing positive injury, not only to yourself, but to the other members of your family.... You have ... let your highly wrought imagination control reason.... Had you no power over your feelings, this would not be sin; but it will not answer thus to yield to the enemy. Your will needs to be sanctified and subdued instead of being arrayed in opposition to that of God....

Man has been placed in a world of sorrow, care, and perplexity. He is placed here to be tested and proved, as were Adam and Eve, that he may develop a right character and bring harmony out of discord and confusion. There is much for us to do that is essential.... And there is much for us to enjoy. Through Christ we are brought into connection with God. His mercies place us under continual obligation; feeling unworthy of His favors, we are to appreciate even the least of them. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

In These Hours of Probation {a devotional}

2026-08-15T03:00:00.000-04:00

I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2.

We believe without a doubt that Christ is soon coming. This is not a fable to us; it is a reality. We have no doubt, neither have we had a doubt for years, that the doctrines we hold today are present truth, and that we are nearing the judgment. We are preparing to meet Him who, escorted by a retinue of holy angels, is to appear in the clouds of heaven to give the faithful and the just the finishing touch of immortality. When He comes He is not to cleanse us of our sins, to remove from us the defects in our characters, or to cure us of the infirmities of our tempers and dispositions. If wrought for us at all, this work will all be accomplished before that time. When the Lord comes, those who are holy will be holy still. Those who have preserved their bodies and spirits in holiness, in sanctification and honor, will then receive the finishing touch of immortality. But those who are unjust, unsanctified, and filthy will remain so forever. No work will then be done for them to remove their defects and give them holy characters. The Refiner does not then sit to pursue His refining process and remove their sins and their corruption. This is all to be done in these hours of probation. It is now that this work is to be accomplished for us.

We embrace the truth of God with our different faculties, and as we come under the influence of that truth, it will accomplish the work for us which is necessary to give us a moral fitness for the kingdom of glory and for the society of the heavenly angels. We are now in God’s workshop. Many of us are rough stones from the quarry. But as we lay hold upon the truth of God, its influence affects us. It elevates us and removes from us every imperfection and sin, of whatever nature. Thus we are prepared to see the King in His beauty and finally to unite with the pure and heavenly angels in the kingdom of glory. It is here that this work is to be accomplished for us, here that our bodies and spirits are to be fitted for immortality. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

It's My Blogiversary!

2026-08-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe, but 21 years ago today was my very first blog post! It wasn't anything exciting, that first post, but it began my journey into the blogging world. I have tried different platforms, but this one seems the most comfortable for me.

My first post:

My first blog!
So, I'm taking the plunge, joining the bloggers! Now what?

My first entry will be rather short, since it is past my bedtime--and I'll be turning into a pumpkin pretty soon, if I don't get to bed! So we will try this again tomorrow, if time permits.

Stay tuned till next time.

Yeah, like I said, really exciting, right? LOL

Today, I decided to integrate my Granmumsy's Musings into my Life on Chickadee Lane blog, with the hopes of adding in more of the subject matter I've intended to share over there...

I guess my main purpose for this blog will to share my thoughts as a granmumsy, mum, and caregiving daughter. It will probably contain a lot of “if only I’d known this back when I was starting to homeschool!” Advice I’d give regarding my grandchild, if only his parents asked me for it. Ha! And pleas for advice on how to navigate this new role of “parenting” my parents, and driving hundreds of miles a week. Yikes!

Some of that isn't even relevant anymore, since I am no longer caring for my parents (they are both deceased now). My oldest son and his wife now have two little boys. My middle son now has a baby on the way.

Oh, yes, I still have my "health blog," The Kitchen on Chickadee Lane. too.

I hope to start posting my Wordless Wednesday posts again, too. I enjoy photography! I've also recently gotten back into penpalling, so you might see mentions of that occassionally, as well.

Looking forward to seeing you join me on this continuing journey more frequently. Have a blessed day!

Painkillers CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-08-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: Painkillers

Author: Rev. Jacky Connell

Genre: Non-Fiction, Christian

Release Date: March 6, 2026

Painkillers are a problem, but not all people in pain turn to drugs for the answers. Some people isolate themselves from others, believing they can avoid more pain if they don’t get close to anyone. Others take the opposite approach, surrounding themselves with unhealthy relationships to try and avoid dealing with the pain and emptiness they feel. It’s also common for people to bury themselves in other things—such as sports, shopping, or other “idols”—keeping busy so they don’t have to think about their pain. People even hide behind a mask of “intellect” to shield themselves.

But what if there were a Painkiller Who didn’t merely cover up your pain but took it completely away? What if there were a relationship that didn’t just stand in for those you have lost but filled the void? What if there were a way to heal from the hurt of broken relationships, the terror of PTSD, the guilt of abortion and other sins, and even the confusion of the LBGTQ lifestyle? Painkillers introduces you to Jesus, the ultimate Painkiller, and His pathway that leads to finding total recovery and freedom from past hurts, pains, and failures.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Reverend Jacky Connell has served as the Senior Pastor of Eden Westside Baptist Church for over thirty-six years. Rev. Connell is a pastor, teacher, author, motivational speaker, and conference leader. God has placed the desire to serve people and empower leaders in the heart of Bro. Jacky.

My Thoughts

What is the first thing you want to do when you're suffering pain, pain of any kind? You want to make it stop, right? I know I do. Sometimes it's easier to mask the pain, or bury it deep inside.

Painkillers talks about seven unhealthy ways of dealing with pain: Isolation, Inappropriate Relationships, Independent Spirit, Idolatry, Intoxication, Intellectual Sabotage, and Insecurity. I can relate to multiple methodologies, since I have dealt with them in my life.

Instead of turning to any of these methods of dealing with pain, we are pointed to Jesus, our Pain Taker.

If you are, or someone you know is, dealing with pain of any kind, I recommend Painkillers. It's a quick, practical read.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Rev. Jacky

Where do you run when life hurts?

That question is at the heart of my book, Painkillers.

I wrote this book because pain is universal. Every person carries wounds—some visible, some hidden. And when pain comes, we all look for relief. Sometimes we run to distractions. Sometimes to control. Sometimes to success, comfort, or isolation.

The truth is this: wanting the pain to stop is human. But where we run with that pain matters.

Painkillers was written to help people recognize the unhealthy places they turn for relief and to point them toward the only place where real healing can be found—God.

This book isn’t about pretending pain doesn’t exist. It’s about facing it honestly, understanding it deeply, and finding freedom on the other side of it.

Over this blog tour, I’m excited to share more of the heart behind the book, the stories behind the pages, and the hope found in healing.

If you’ve ever been hurt, disappointed, broken, or just tired of carrying the weight—this journey is for you.

Because the question isn’t if we run when life hurts.
The question is: Where do we run?

#PainkillersBook #HealingStartsHere #WhereDoYouRunWhenLifeHurts

Blog Stops

Artistic Nobody, August 5 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, August 6 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 6

Fiction Book Lover, August 7 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 8

The Bookish Ledger, August 9 (Author Interview)

The Quiet Bookmark, August 10 (Author Interview)

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 11

Vicky Sluiter, August 12 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 14

Texas Book-aholic, August 15

For the Love of Literature, August 16 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 17 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, August 18 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, August 18

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Rev. Jacky is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/g2lOJ/painkillers-celebration-tour-giveaway

When the South Wind Blows CelebrateLit Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-08-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

About the Book

Book: When the South Wind Blows

Author: Barbara A. Curtis

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 14, 2026

He’s spent his life chasing headlines—until the woman behind the story captures his heart.

Elizabeth Canton never planned to abandon her budding theater career, but after witnessing a crime, she has no choice but to disappear. When a family invitation offers refuge at the Double E Ranch, she seizes the chance to hide and finds unexpected purpose helping her young cousin rehearse for the stage, never expecting to be drawn to the local reporter who sees past her carefully kept secrets.

Ranch hand Logan Palmer has always dreamed of writing stories that matter, not livestock columns for the town paper. Elizabeth’s grace catches his eye. But it’s her patience and tenderness with her cousin that captures his heart, even as her mystery stirs his reporter’s instincts. The closer he grows to her, the more he questions whether some stories are better left untold.

As Elizabeth and Logan grow closer, danger follows her to Idaho. When her past catches up with her, she’ll have to choose between protecting her heart and trusting in love. And Logan must decide what matters more—the story that could launch his career, or the woman who’s stolen his heart.

Set against the rugged beauty of the American West, this touching historical romance explores the healing power of family, second chances, and learning that sometimes the greatest role we can play is simply being ourselves.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Barbara A. Curtis lives in Connecticut with her husband, and they have one grown son, a blessing to their hearts. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Novel Academy.

My Thoughts

When the South Wind Blows is the fourth and final book of the "Blooms of the Bitterbrush" series, and what a delightful series it is.

Elizabeth must abandon her dreams of being on Broadway, and for her safety flees to the extended family's ranch in Idaho. She willingly pitches in, doing household chores, and learning what she can about ranch life.

Ranch hand Logan, aspiring journalist, is suspicious of Elizabeth's story of why she arrived, and is certain there is a story to be told.

I enjoyed watching their relationship grow, in spite of suspicion and caution. This is a satisfying conclusion to the series, which really is best read in order.

If you enjoy sweet, Christian historical romance, with a touch of light suspense, I recommend it for your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

More from Barbara

Chocolate, Chocolate

What part does chocolate play in When the South Wind Blows? To little Susannah, it plays a big part, as Logan is going to help her frost her salvaged cake.

“Miss Lizzie?” Logan hadn’t moved from his spot next to the stove. “If it’s all right with you, may Susannah and I make the frosting for the cake?”

He knew how to make frosting? And again, he included the little girl.

“Thank you. Susannah, why don’t you pull out the cookbook for chocolate that your grandma and I like, and you and Logan will be in charge?”

“Oh yay! The Hershey’s Cookbook? They have the best frosting recipe.”

Yes, in 1934 Hershey’s had published a cookbook, so it would have been well loved and used in the Double E Ranch kitchen in 1950.

And Nestlé’s Toll House cookies weren’t far behind, as Nestlé acquired the rights to the original recipe in 1939. By World War II, the cookies were a staple included in packages sent to US servicemen overseas. Do you think they’d mind that Elizabeth called her version Victory cookies? Though they had nothing to do with the war but a little victory right at home.

Have you ever renamed a favorite recipe just for your family for fun?

I hope you enjoy When the South Wind Blows, the final book in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. Maybe with a cup of tea and a chocolate chip cookie to go along with it.

Blessings.

Barbara

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 5

Simple Harvest Reads, August 6 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 7

Texas Book-aholic, August 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 9

lakesidelivingsite, August 10

Books Less Travelled, August 11 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 11

DevotedToHope, August 12

Connie’s History Classroom , August 13

Cover Lover Book Review, August 14

Sydney Schmied Books, August 15

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, August 16 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, August 17

Pause for Tales, August 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Barbara is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/oVpBV/when-the-south-wind-blows-celebration-tour-giveaway

High Spiritual State Attainable {a devotional}

2026-08-08T03:00:00.000-04:00

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy. Jude 24.

Christ was obedient to every requirement of the law....

By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah.

Through the plan of redemption, God has provided means for subduing every sinful trait, and resisting every temptation, however strong.

The strongest temptation is no excuse for sin. However great the pressure brought to bear upon the soul, transgression is our own act. It is not in the power of earth or hell to compel any one to sin. The will must consent, the heart must yield, or passion cannot overbear reason, nor iniquity triumph over righteousness.

If you will stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel, faithfully doing His service, you need never yield to temptation; for One stands by your side who is able to keep you from falling.

We need not retain one sinful propensity.... [Ephesians 2:1-6 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:] ...

As we partake of the divine nature, hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong are cut away from the character, and we are made a living power for good. Ever learning of the divine Teacher, daily partaking of His nature, we cooperate with God in overcoming Satan’s temptations. God works, and man works, that man may be one with Christ as Christ is one with God. Then we sit together with Christ in heavenly places. The mind rests with peace and assurance in Jesus. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

Christ Our Helper and Redeemer {a devotional}

2026-08-01T03:00:00.000-04:00

As by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Romans 5:19.

Because man fallen could not overcome Satan with his human strength, Christ came from the royal courts of heaven to help him with His human and divine strength combined. Christ knew that Adam in Eden, with his superior advantages, might have withstood the temptations of Satan, and conquered him. He also knew that it was not possible for man, out of Eden, separated from the light and love of God since the Fall, to resist the temptations of Satan in his own strength. In order to bring hope to man, and save him from complete ruin, He humbled Himself to take man’s nature, that, with His divine power combined with the human, He might reach man where he is. He obtains for the fallen sons and daughters of Adam that strength which it is impossible for them to gain for themselves, that in His name they may overcome the temptations of Satan....

Adam and Eve in Eden were placed under most favorable circumstances.... They were without the condemnation of sin.... The Author of their existence was their teacher. But they fell beneath the power and temptations of the artful foe. Four thousand years had Satan been at work against the government of God, and he had obtained strength and experience from determined practice. Fallen men had not the advantages of Adam in Eden. They had been separating from God for four thousand years. The wisdom to understand, and power to resist, the temptations of Satan had become less and less, until Satan seemed to reign triumphant in the earth. Appetite and passion, the love of the world and presumptuous sins, were the great branches of evil out of which every species of ... corruption grew.

Our lives may seem a tangle; but as we commit ourselves to the wise Master Worker, He will bring out the pattern of life and character that will be to His own glory. And that character which expresses the glory—character—of Christ, will be received into the Paradise of God.

Everyone who by faith obeys God’s commandments, will reach the condition of sinlessness in which Adam lived before his transgression. ~Maranatha, by E.G. White

A Cowboy to Call Her Own JustRead Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-07-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Cowboy to Call Her Own by Cari Lynn Webb, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Cowboy to Call Her Own
Series: The Bluegrass Blackwells #1
Author: Cari Lynn Webb
Publisher: Harlequin Heartwarming
Release Date: July 28, 2026
Genre: Contemporary Romance

This big-city cowboy
Just swept her off her boots!

Saving his family’s Kentucky racing stables is priority number one for cowboy Asher Blackwell. Love is not on his agenda. But when pretty chef Kelley Munroe pulls him into a clumsy two-step, he’s charmed. And making a deal with her to cater for the stables adds a little sunlight to his days. As a shared love of horses draws them together, and they’re roped into planning the town’s Fourth of July celebrations, the sparks between them blossom into fireworks. Asher wasn’t looking for a fresh start, and his life is in New York. But Kelley’s healing support is cracking open his guarded heart. Could she be the cowgirl he’d always hoped for?

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

Also Available

Excerpt

“You can have all the blackberries on this property if you keep me supplied in turnovers,” Asher said.

“I can arrange that.”

“Then we have another deal.” He extended his arm toward her.

Kelley set her hand in his.

Asher stilled when he wanted to give a gentle tug. Just enough to suggest he wanted her closer. Just a nudge that would allow her to close the distance if she chose to or walk away. Yet, he never flinched. He kept his fingers wrapped around hers, his expression relaxed and his words casual. “Thanks for lending me your organizational skills tonight.”

“Anytime.” Her fingers flexed around his hand.

Now, that was a miscalculation. He had not considered the possibility that she might pull him toward her. And now he could not seem to stop considering it. He held his breath. I dare you, cowgirl.

My Thoughts

A Cowboy to Call Her Own is book 1 of Cari Lynn Webb's new series, "The Bluegrass Blackwells." It is set in the heart of Kentucky horse farms, and is wrapped up in horses and horse racing.

It is a sweet story of the growth of friendship between Asher and Kelley, how they work together to help each other out. The before-breakfast dance together which Kelley's sister instigated supposedly in preparation for her wedding was a cute opening.

Having lived in Texas and Montana, I was a little put off by the terms, and somewhat overuse, of "her cowboy" and "his cowgirl." Otherwise it's a fun read.

If you enjoy sweet contemporary romance, with a touch of mystery and a dose of faith, then I suggest this for your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

About the Author

Cari Lynn Webb lives in Florida with her husband. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers.

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

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a $25 Amazon gift card and 2 print books by Cari Lynn Webb from the Blackwells Backlist!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 28, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 4, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

This post contains affiliate link

Turmoil in the Cities {a devotional}

2026-07-25T03:00:00.000-04:00

Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13.

It was not God’s purpose that His people should be crowded into cities, huddled together in terraces and tenements. In the beginning He placed our first parents in a garden amidst the beautiful sights and attractive sounds of nature, and these sights and sounds He desires men to rejoice in today.

Light has been given me that the cities will be filled with confusion, violence, and crime, and that these things will increase till the end of this earth’s history.

It is time for our people to take their families from the cities into more retired localities, else many of the youth, and many also of those older in years, will be ensnared and taken by the enemy.

“Out of the cities; out of the cities!”—this is the message the Lord has been giving me.

The turmoil and confusion that fill these cities, the conditions brought about by the labor unions and the strikes, would prove a great hindrance to our work. Men are seeking to bring those engaged in the different trades under bondage to certain unions. This is not God’s planning, but the planning of a power that we should in no wise acknowledge. God’s word is fulfilling; the wicked are binding themselves up in bundles ready to be burned. We are now to use all our entrusted capabilities in giving the last warning message to the world. In this work we are to preserve our individuality. We are not to unite with secret societies or with trade-unions. We are to stand free in God, looking constantly to Christ.

The ungodly cities of our world are to be swept away by the besom of destruction. In the calamities that are now befalling immense buildings and large portions of cities God is showing us what will come upon the whole earth. He has told us: “Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: so likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it [the coming of the Son of man] is near, even at the doors.” Matthew 24:32, 33. ~ Maranatha, by E.G. White

The Robber and the Witness JustRead Tour {book review and giveaway}

2026-07-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Robber and the Witness by Danielle Grandinetti, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Robber and the Witness
Series: Christmas Cabin Historical Romance Novellas #3
Author: Danielle Grandinetti
Publisher: Hearth Spot Press
Release Date: July 21, 2026
Genre: Christmas Historical Romance/Mystery

Christmas … a time of reunions and unexpected surprises.

A simple favor, a best friend's promise, and the end of the line.

Wisconsin, 1931—When Gideon Lundgren agrees to escort his best friend's sister to Manitowish Waters, plans go awry when she witnesses a robbery. He thinks he's merely escorting the girl he once knew, but she's grown into a charming beauty.

Evangeline Whitaker's older brother always warned that her kind heart would be the death of her. It might at that. First, when she's an unwitting accomplice to a robber. Second, when her childhood crush becomes her bodyguard.

With a robber on their trail and a tangle of emotions between them, Evangeline and Gideon detour to his boss's cabin to wait out the ensuing manhunt. However, Evangeline's Christmas spirit might be the death of them both.

One cabin in the Northwoods … a decade of Christmas miracles.

A sweet 1931 Christmas mystery featuring a closed-door romance between a protective bodyguard and the woman who witnessed too much.

Excerpt

Evangeline shifted on the wooden bench, noting more passengers gathering in the station. Where had the tall man gone? A sliver of unease slithered down her spine. Gideon’s train would hopefully arrive before the one on which they would return to Manitowish Waters. She couldn’t leave without him, and it was already an overnight trip, arriving in town at noon tomorrow. If they weren’t delayed by the snow.

Another passenger entered along with the strongest gust of wind and snow yet. Evangeline shivered, casting a glance toward the rear door where the tall man had exited. Evan fully believed that she was too trusting, that she was too kind. And yet, Evangeline couldn’t understand why that was such a bad thing. Yes, her brother constantly worried about her safety, but didn’t Jesus ask them to be kind? Wasn’t she supposed to help those in need? What harm could come from watching this man’s luggage while he went to the privy?

Still, perhaps the trouble wasn’t watching the bag. It was what to do if the man never returned.

My Thoughts

The Robber and the Witness is the fourth book in the "Christmas Cabin Historical Romance Novellas" series, in which each can be read as a stand alone. It is a perfect "Christmas in July" read!

This quick read will actually have you shivering from cold, as you follow Gideon, Evangeline, and the rest of the train passengers trek through falling snow and deep snow drifts across the Minnesota state line into Wisconsin. Brr!

I like the sweet camaraderie between Evangeline and Gideon, who have known each other from childhood and are meeting up now as adults. It's sweet how protective Gideon is of Eva, especially with potential danger lurking.

If you enjoy a sweet historical romance, with a touch of faith, be sure to pick up your own copy.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

About the Author

Danielle Grandinetti writes award-winning 1930s historical romantic mystery and suspense. She is the 2026 Holt Medallion winner and a second-generation Italian-American. Fueled by tea and nature, she crafts hope-filled historical romance novels exploring immigrant heritage, found family, and cozy Midwest traditions. Find her at daniellegrandinetti.com.

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a signed paperback of The Robber and the Witness, a notebook/pen set, and a wooden ornament!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 22, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 29, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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