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Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama

The Shenanigans of a Bookish Mama journeying through Motherhood, Homeschooling and lots of Books!

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Saddleback Leater Mini Bucket Purse Review

December 15, 2025



I don’t receive many items that aren’t books to review so when this opportunity from Saddleback Leather came around I had to do it, especially since I needed a new purse. Long gone are the days of hauling a large bag to keep all the things kids needed so I typically carry a medium to small bag to keep my essentials.

When I saw the Mini Bucket Bag on the website I fell in love! I loved the color and the adjustable strap (since I wear my purse crossbody style). I was a little wary on the size, I mean I don’t carry a lot of stuff but I need to carry these items so I was so ecstatic when everything fit! I love that it’s real leather and I know will last me a very long time, so definitely worth the money since it’s a great quality product. The only thing I would add is a magnetic closure . It does have the cinch but I’m wondering how that will hold up in the coming years.

The website was super friendly to use and their story on how it all began is a great read so go check that out. I also love that this company has a wonderful ministry called Love 41 based out of the Bible Verse Psalm 41:1-3. They support different organizations helping children who are orphaned and single moms in impoverished countries.

If you are looking for a great gift that will last a while and have the budget to do so I suggest checking out this company!

Thank you @saddlebackbags for the purse to review! Needless to say I’m in love with it! All views expressed are my own!

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A Sea Glass Christmas ~ Book Spotlight

 



About the Book 


Book:
A Sea Glass Christmas
Author: Davis Bunn
Genre: Contemporary Christmas Romance
Publisher: Kensington


In the ultimate Christmas comfort read for fans of Nicholas Sparks and Karen Kingsbury, a bracing Christmas on North Carolina’s Outer Banks opens the door to a second chance at love…

Some places never leave you . . .

Two days before his 21st birthday, Brody Reames left the Outer Banks to fulfill his dream of sailing. For years, it’s been a liberating, wayfarer’s life, crewing on ocean-bound vessels and joining cross-Atlantic races. He knew leaving his hometown wouldn’t be forever, but to mend a disillusioned heart in Fortunate Harbor, it was for the best. Still, he never expected that a family upheaval and his loving mother’s plea would call him back. With Christmas nearing, Brody is coming home again—to a crisp chill in the air and a warm former flame . . .

Some goodbyes aren’t meant to be forever . . .

Attorney for the Outer Banks’ 5-star ocean-front resort and resident treasure hunter, Rae Alden has a life that is adventurous, rewarding . . . and lonely. Still struggling with recent romances gone wrong, Rae directs all her energy into her career and caring for her ailing aunt, taking respite in dawn runs along the beach. But now, after eight years, she sees Brody again. They share more than a passion for the island realm. There are memories of a lovely once-upon-a-time fling. It lasted until a fateful change of seasons—and heart.

Like waves along the Crystal Coast, emotions thought long-gone come rushing back. But with both of them facing family turmoil and secrets yet to be revealed, how promising is a new chance at happiness, no matter how powerful the yearning? For Brody and Rae, this Christmas is all about making wishes come true.







About the Author


Davis Bunn is an internationally bestselling author, published in 21 languages, with more than seven million books in print. He is a four-time Christy Award-winner and has received much acclaim for his novels across multiple genres, including historical fiction, inspirational, suspense and women’s fiction. Born and raised in North Carolina, Davis left for Europe at age twenty and pursued a business career that took him to over 20 countries all over the world. He and his wife now divide most of their time between the coast of Florida and the English countryside, where Davis serves as Writer in Residence at Regent’s Park College, Oxford University. Please join Davis Bunn online at DavisBunn.com.
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A Hero's Kiss by Virginia'Dele Smith ~ Book Review

December 5, 2025

 


Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Hero's Christmas Kiss by Virginia'dele Smith, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!



About the Book


A Hero's Christmas Kiss

Title: A Hero's Christmas Kiss 
Series:
Military Kisses 
Author:
Virginia'dele Smith 
Publisher:
Books are Ubiquitous, LLC 
Release Date: November 7, 2025 
Genre:
Wholesome and Cozy, Small-Town Christian Romance  
 

Caroling, coffee, and complications. A broken hero and the sweet girl next door…  

 
She just might be the miracle this soldier deserves. But can she fulfill her dreams without losing the guarded military man who’s captured her heart? 

 
Emilie Fielding longs for love — and to own her own business someday. Despite fears that she’s wasting time waiting for her prince to come while working for her Scrooge-like boss, the optimistic barista tackles Christmas preparations for the coffee shop with unbridled holiday joy. And when she stumbles hanging mistletoe, she surprises herself as well as her handsome rescuer with a merry peck on his cheek, right before he’s cajoled into lending her a hand. 

 
Garrett Banks yearns to belong. Learning to live with lingering injuries and struggling with feelings of vulnerability, the Marine discovers a humorous group of senior busybodies and the vibrant young woman who catches his attention while visiting a treasured small town. Tasked with helping to check off her yuletide to-do list, his honed defenses and well-constructed walls begin to crumble. 

 
Even though Emilie’s innate connection with him deepens, she wrestles with the growing need to leave her beloved home to secure her future. And while Garrett hopes to stay by her side, he fears the only way forward is to let her go. 

 
Do they have the courage this Christmas to unwrap the gift of forever?  

 
A Hero's Christmas Kiss is the charming eighth book in the Green Hills romance series and part of the Military Kisses Sweet Romance multi-author project. If you like swoon-worthy characters, fairytale towns that help people heal, and a cozy cup of holiday cheer, then you’ll adore Virginia'dele Smith’s jolly read.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub



My Thoughts


This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. I believe this is part of a multi author series so are all stand alones. I thought it was a sweet story and was a pretty quick read. A perfect cozy read for a cold chilly night. Both Garrett and Emilie were great characters and the way their friendship blossomed through the story was well done. You will definitely enjoy the storyline and I absolutely loved the meddlesome senior citizens in the cafe. They definitely make you giggle with their shenanigans to get both of them together. 

Overall I thought this was a sweet story and if you are looking for a quick read this Christmas season I recommend grabbing this one. 


About the Author


Ashli Montgomery Virginia'dele Smith

Ashli Montgomery is a wife, a momma, a writer, a quilter, and an entrepreneur. Her passion is sharing love stories, books, quilts, yoga, recipes, her faith, and her favorite ways to create a lovely life.


Ashli writes wholesome and cozy romance under the pen name Virginia’dele Smith to honor Syble Virginia Tidwell, Adele Gertrude Baylin, and Etta Jean Smith. 


These three cherished grandmothers taught Ashli to love without judgment, always putting family first. Through Grandma Syble’s journals and appetite for books, through Momadele’s priceless cards and handwritten letters, and through hours of visiting over fabric at Mema’s kitchen island, Ashli also learned to treasure words. 


Get to know Ashli by subscribing to her newsletter, The Gazette, at AshliMontgomery.com



Tour Giveaway


(3) winners will each receive A Hero's Christmas Kiss Book Bundle including autographed hardcover edition; commemorative postcard, bookmark, sticker, and magnet; plus a $25 Starbucks gift card!


A Hero's Christmas Kiss JustRead tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 2, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 9, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


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Puppy Love & Snowflake Kisses by Jennifer Faye ~ Book Review

October 3, 2025

 





Welcome to the Blog Tour for Puppy Love & Snowflake Kisses by Jennifer Faye, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


About the Book


Puppy Love and Snowflake Kisses

Title: Puppy Love & Snowflake Kisses 
Series:
Kringle Falls #2 
Author:
Jennifer Faye 
Publisher:
Lazy Dazy Press 
Release Date:
October 1, 2025 
Genre:
Clean & Wholesome Romance / Christmas Holiday Romance / Small Town Romance


When she needs help, he’s the last person she would turn to… 


Belle Sinclair has recently adopted a stray puppy. It was love at first snuggle. He is the best Christmas present ever. And yet her holiday happiness goes sideways when she hears a siren and spots flashing lights in her rearview mirror. 


 Sheriff Parker Bishop is a confirmed bachelor. He firmly believes all laws should be obeyed without exception. And so, when he spots the beautiful Belle Sinclair once more committing a moving violation, what choice does he have? He has to pull her over. 


But this holiday, Belle’s puppy has gone missing. Suspecting foul play, she has to call on the one man in Kringle Falls who can get under her skin with just a look. This Christmas, will they be able to work past their differences in order to help the puppy? And along the way will they find that opposites just might attract?  


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


More in This Series





My Thoughts


If you love the Christmas Hallmark movies and the small town romance vibes then this is definitely the book to add to your holiday TBR lists! This one will not disappoint so grab some hot cocoa and a cozy blanket as you meet Belle, Parker and Odie. I will say that there is a bit of suspense in the story as Odie gets kidnapped but its not scary. If you have been longing for a puppy this may be the book that sets you over the edge to get one as you just can't help in loving Odie and wanting him for your own.

Overall I thought this was a good story filled with sweet moments, romance and although predictable at times it will definitely be a cozy read come winter time!




About the Author


Jennifer Faye

Award-winning author Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances. With more than a million books sold, she is internationally published with books translated into more than a dozen languages and her work has been optioned for film. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards.


Now living her dream, she resides with her very patient husband, one bossy cat and an ornery pup. When she's not plotting out her next romance, you can find her curled up with a mug of tea and a book.


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



Tour Giveaway


(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card & an autographed copy of Puppy Wishes & Candy Kisses!


Puppy Love & Snowflake Kisses JustRead blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 30, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 4, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


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When the Road Comes Around by Katie Powner ~ Book Review

September 15, 2025








About the Book 


Book: When the Road Comes Around
Author: Katie Powner
Genre: Contemporary
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: August 2025

In the small town of Grady, Montana, twenty-four-year-old Tad Bungley has a reputation for trouble. When he lands a job at Come Around Ranch, however, his life seems to take a positive turn. As he develops a soft spot for Sam, the ranch owner's disabled son, and a special bond with TJ, a rescue horse with a poor reputation of his own, Tad becomes determined not to mess up this time.

Forty-eight-year-old Anita Wilson is too young to feel so old, but rheumatoid arthritis limits her ability to work on the guest ranch she owns with her husband. It was a risk to hire Tad for the summer, but Anita is convinced he just needs a bit of grace and encouragement to find his footing. What she doesn't anticipate is that Tad's presence at the ranch will change everything, including her relationship with her son. And when Tad finds himself in more trouble than ever, he and Anita must learn when to hold on, when to let go, and how to embrace grace.





My Thoughts 



This is a story of redemption, forgiveness and grace. We meet Tad who is a troubled young man that has been given a second chance by Anita and her husband Dan who are the owners of Come Around Ranch. Tad, though rough around the edges is loved by Anita who has a son with developmental disabilities. Tad is his best friend and looks out for Sam no matter what. Dan at times can't see past the negatives of Tad but because of his love for his wife and God he shows him grace. 
Tad unexpectedly gets custody of his daughter that he never knew about so we do see some growth in his character but not enough to make it substantial to the story, at least not for me. 

There was another storyline happening in this story that felt a bit disjointed but it did connect all the characters together. This was a good story by Katie Powner and while it didn't resonate with me as her other books have I am sure you may enjoy it. It is definitely one of those stories that at the end its not wrapped up nicely and gives you that deep sigh of resolution. There is not big "come to Jesus moment" or anything like that which I typically expect in a fiction story. So this is more of a realistic ending where everything is still the same. While Tad has learned some lessons, he hasn't realized that he so desperately needs His Savior. 

Overall the book was good and did keep me reading but I was a bit disappointed with how it all turned out. 

I received a copy of this book for review. All views expressed are my own.



About the Author




Katie Powner is a Christy Award-winning author who lives in rural Montana where cows still outnumber people. She writes contemporary fiction about redemption, relationships, and finding the dirt road home. Katie is a mom to the third power: biological, adoptive, and foster. Learn more at www.katiepowner.com
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Fire Mountain by Dana Mentink ~ Book Review

August 18, 2025




About the Book


Book:  Fire Mountain
Author: Dana Mentink
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Elements of Danger, Book 1
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: July 1, 2025

In the shadow of a threatening volcano, long-haul trucker Kit Garrido wakes up in her crashed big rig, unable to recall what happened or why she's suddenly in possession of someone's baby. Fiercely independent, she has to admit that perhaps this time she could use a little help.

As the threat of eruption grows, former cop Cullen Landry refuses to leave his cabin in the evacuation area, which is why he's the only one left who can help Kit escape the crumpled cab of her truck. He doesn't want to get tangled up in the mystery of the beautiful woman with an abandoned infant, but when he sees the bullet hole in the windshield and the bloody handprint on the interior, he realizes that he's in this thing, like it or not.

When two armed men with ill intent approach, the race is on to stay alive, discover the truth, and find the baby's missing mother--all while a deadly mountain rains fire from above.

Experience the explosive start to this nail-biting series from USA Today bestselling author Dana Mentink!


 

My Thoughts 


This book had me at the edge of my seat turning the pages faster than I could read the words to find out what was going to happen!! Goodness, it felt like each new page was a new suspense element that just kept you reading. Cullen, Kit and Baby Tot's life was at stake and I definitely needed to know what was going to happen. In the midst of all this suspense there is plenty of romantic tension and the Cullen with baby Tot is completely swoon-worthy!

Dana Mentink did an excellent job with this story. It was the best balance of suspense, romance and faith that definitely kept wanting you long for more. I can't wait to continue the series and see the characters again but also hoping that we get to see more of Gideon and his story!

I received copy of this book for review. All views are my own.



About the Author



USA TODAY bestseller Dana Mentink enjoys writing in many different capacities. She currently writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press.

Dana is the recipient of a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards as well as a Holt Medallion.

Dana loves feedback from her readers. Contact her via her website at www.danamentink.com
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A Family of His Doorstep by Alena Auguste ~ Book Spotlight + Giveaway

July 31, 2025


 


Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Family on His Doorstep by Alena Auguste, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


About the Book


A Family on His Doorstep

Title: A Family On His Doorstep 
Author:
Alena Auguste 
Publisher:
Harlequin Love Inspired 
Release Date:
July 29, 2025 
Genre: Contemporary Romance


Sometimes a tough situation


Requires a leap of faith… 


Unwed, unemployed and pregnant, Rebecca Young is in desperate need of a job. But finding work seems impossible. So when her late ex-boyfriend’s cousin Walker Greystone offers her room and board, and help getting a part-time job at the library he’s renovating in Eden, Texas, she eagerly accepts. But as they work together on a project that could change both of their lives, their feelings for one another deepen. Can Rebecca and Walker overcome their scars from the past and embrace the possibility of a happily-ever-after together?  


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



Excerpt


“I booked a room at the Inn. I wanted to drop off his things and then prepare for the interview tomorrow.” Rebecca shifted her eyes to look at him. He could tell she was confused by all of Bell’s questions.

“Oh, no, you shouldn’t stay there. It’s just not safe. You can sleep here. No family of mine is overnighting at that place. Why, just last week our friend, Deputy Brian Arnold had to lock someone up for disorderly conduct in the lobby.”

Aunt Bell turned to him. “Walker, get her bag from her car, and I’ll set her up in the mother-in-law suite.”

“No, really, I—”

Bell patted Rebecca’s hand. If the situation wasn’t so serious, he would laugh. But he knew that there was no way Aunt Bell would allow Rebecca to leave her sight.

“We have so much space here at the ranch, honey. It’s not a big deal. Besides, we must think of the safety of you and the baby.”

After a long pause, Rebecca finally gave in. “Well…all right, thank you.” Aunt Bell had raised five boys in her household. She was strong-willed and could get anyone to do anything she wanted before a person even realized she was doing it.

Bell patted the hand she was holding. “Perfect. Now, let me show you to your room while Walker gets your bag. Don’t just stand there, Walker. Go on.” He nodded and jumped up off the couch.

“This way, dear. It’s perfect timing. Walker’s brothers are coming over for Sunday family lunch in about an hour, so you can meet everyone.” Walker didn’t hear Rebecca’s response as she and Aunt Bell disappeared around the corner that led to the bedrooms.

What was really going on here? He needed time to figure it all out. And having the woman who claimed to having his late cousin’s child here, even overnight, would help him get answers. Plus, he was certain Aunt Bell would be devastated if Rebecca left with her only grandchild.

If this truly was Vince’s baby, he would figure out a way to keep the baby close.


About the Author


Alena Auguste


Alena Auguste lives in Texas and can’t imagine living anywhere else. Married to her very own knight for thirty plus years, she and her husband have four amazing grown children and two of the handsomest grandsons ever! When she’s not creating trouble for her characters or working at the family business, you can find her cozying up with a steaming cup of tea and a good book. She would love to hear from you at alenaauguste.com.




Tour Giveaway


(1) winners will receive a $50 Amazon gift card!


A Family on His Doorstep JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 28, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 4, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


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Names of God: Knowing Peace by Grace Fox ~ Book Spotlight + Giveaway

July 7, 2025

 



Welcome to the Blog Tour for Names of God: Knowing Peace by Grace Fox, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


About the Book


Names of God: Knowing Peace

Title: Names of God: Knowing Peace 
Series:
Names of God Devotional Studies #2 
Author:
Grace Fox 
Publisher:
Aspire Press 
Release Date:
July 8, 2025 
Genre: Christian Living; Devotional study


Peace. 


The very word evokes images of serene landscapes and quiet stillness. In today’s chaotic world, peace is a valuable commodity. The Bible has a lot to say about peace, claiming that God himself is the ultimate source. In this follow-up to Names of God: Living Unafraid, Grace Fox reflects on how the following names of God point to the peace our souls so desperately crave:  



Yahweh Shalom—The Lord Is Peace 
Abba—Father 
El Shaddai—God Almighty 
El Roi—The God Who Sees Me 
Yahweh Ori—The Lord Is My Light 
Yahweh Nissi—The Lord Is My Banner 
Immanuel—God with Us 


Knowing Peace uses examples from Scripture and compelling real-life stories to illustrate how these names can bring inner peace amid life’s storms. Each session includes a guided prayer, reflection questions, and a video link providing additional insights from Grace. Perfect for individual or group study, this new addition to the Names of God series will encourage and inspire readers to draw near to God and receive his peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7).  


PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Tyndale House | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop


More in This Series





Excerpt


When someone truly sees us, we say that they “get” us. They understand our flaws and frustrations; our jumbled emotions; our longings, disappointments, and dreams. They see through our masks and plastic smiles and weak excuses, and they love us anyway. 

The name El Roi assures us that God “gets” us. He already knows our thoughts and the intent of our hearts, so we can be completely honest with him. We don’t have to approach him wearing spiritual veneer to cover our blemishes. There’s no point, because nothing is hidden from his sight.

The name El Roi also implies God’s nearness. He is never too preoccupied to care about what’s happening with us. He is present with us—right here, right now—because his Holy Spirit lives in us. Because he is near, he sees everything that happens in our lives, and he’s involved in the details.

Life being what it is, we’ll all experience moments or seasons when we feel alone or invisible. We’ll find ourselves in situations where we doubt that anyone truly understands what we’re going through. We can’t deny our emotions—nor should we—but we can deny their potentially negative power over us by setting our minds on the truth: God sees us. He sees the marginalized, the weary, and those who have lost their last shred of hope. He sees us in our despair and in our deepest place of need. He “gets” us, and he cares. 

~ Excerpt from Names of God: Knowing Peace by Grace Fox. Used with permission.



About the Author


Grace Fox


Grace Fox is the award-winning author of 15 books including Names of God: Knowing Peace. She’s a popular Bible teacher at international women’s events, a member of the “First 5” Bible study writing team (Proverbs 31 Ministries), and an annual contributor to the Mornings with Jesus 365-day devotional published by Guideposts.


Grace has been a career missionary for more than 30 years. She and her husband co-direct International Messengers Canada, a missionary sending agency with 300 staff in more than 25 countries. They currently live fulltime aboard a sailboat in Vancouver, British Columbia. Married in 1982, they celebrate three grown kids and 14 grandchildren.

 

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




Tour Giveaway


(1) winner will receive a print copy of "Names of God: Knowing Peace," a print copy of "Names of God: Living Unafraid," a $10 Amazon gift card, two downloadables, and a fun assortment of little beach-themed gifts!


Names of God Knowing Peace JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 7, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 14, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


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Midnight Offensive by Elle. E. Kay ~ Book Spotlight

July 1, 2025

 



Welcome to the Blog Tour for Midnight Offensive by Elle E. Kay, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


About the Book


Midnight Offensive

Title: Midnight Offensive 
Series:
Toxic Truths #1 
Author:
Elle E. Kay 
Publisher:
Faith Writes Publishing 
Release Date: May 14, 2025 
Genre:
Christian Romantic Suspense / Thriller


Former Navy SEAL Craig Malone is now a Tactical Operations Leader for Homeland Security with a critical mission: protect the only antidote to Viper-X, a stolen bioweapon about to be sold to the highest bidder. But the mission becomes dangerously personal when the investigation leads him to Sadie Kline—an emergency room nurse and his best friend’s little sister. He’s always kept his distance, but now her life is on the line. 


As a ruthless enemy closes in, kidnapping their loved ones and setting deadly traps, Craig must protect the woman he can’t get out of his head while stopping a catastrophic attack. 


Duty and a decade of unspoken feelings collide in a race to stop a traitor before it’s too late. 


PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon | BookBub

Also Available

Grave Consequences



Excerpt



Sadie darted from the apartment, down the stairs, and out the door. The acrid smell of burnt rubber stung her nostrils when she inhaled.

Craig stood beside the charred remains of his vehicle, batting away thick clouds of black smoke, but he looked unscathed. 

Her whole body trembled in relief. She paused for two beats, then flung herself into his arms. “Thank heaven you’re all right. When I saw your car…”

“Shh. I’m all right. Everything’s okay.” He rubbed circles on her back.



About the Author


Elle E. Kay

Elle E. Kay is an Angel Award–winning Christian author known for her gripping suspense and engaging romance. She lives on a hobby farm in Central Pennsylvania near Red Rock Mountain with her husband, three dogs, and a variety of farm animals. A devoted follower of Christ, Elle is active in her church’s youth ministry and shares her love of Jesus through music.


Since her debut novel Shadowing Stella released in 2016, Elle has written over two dozen books spanning romantic suspense, contemporary romance, historical fiction, and children’s literature. Her award-winning Pennsylvania Parks series blends faith and thrills against the backdrop of the state’s stunning natural landscapes. She’s also the author of the Endless Mountain series and a contributor to several multi-author projects, including the Lawkeeper, Blushing Brides, Heroes of Freedom Ridge, and Christmas in Redemption Ridge collections. 


Elle writes children’s books under the pen name Ellie Mae Kay and connects with readers through her blog, newsletters, and social media. Whether writing fiction, singing in church, or caring for her animals, Elle lives out her faith—and crafts stories where love, hope, and perseverance prevail.


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




Tour Giveaway


(1) winner will receive a Romantic Suspense Prize Pack which features 5 of Elle's most recent romantic suspense releases, including Midnight Offensive, along with a tote bag and swag!


Midnight Offensive JustRead Tours blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 30, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 7, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


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A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano ~ Book Review

June 30, 2025




About the Book 


Book: A Lesson in Propriety
Author: Jen Turano
Genre: Historical Fiction
Series: Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies, Book 1
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: May 20, 2025

With her father dead, her fortune stolen, and her fiancé casting her aside, Miss Drusilla Merriweather's privileged life has been upended. She is left with only one option: to provide for her family by opening a finishing school in the allegedly haunted castle she's inherited from her eccentric aunt. However, her plan is immediately threatened by unscrupulous developers keen on claiming the coveted estate for themselves, by any means necessary.

Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences--walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors--arise within castle grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family's safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart.

In this entrancing series starter, Turano presents a tale of laugh-out-loud adventure, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age.



My Thoughts 


You truly cannot go wrong with a Jen Turano book! Immediately your cares will melt away and you know you will get in a great chuckle! I read this outdoors enjoying the sunshine and I am sure that my neighbors and people walking by thought I was crazy when I was reading this. I love this new setting of Chicago, typically we are in New York or Newport but this setting involving a castle was rather nice and quite adventurous, mysterious and overall fun! 

Drusilla Merriweather newly disengaged and without any money decides to head to Chicago and open an academy for young ladies to teach them how to be proper and have the etiquette required for high society. All things go array when the criminal underworld wants her house and ghosts seem to be in premises. I loved the characters in the story! To say they are quite eccentric would be an understatement. It is quite hilarious the antics they get into!

The love interest Rhenick Wittenbecker is so adorable! You can't help but fall for him and I am so glad that Drusilla finally sees that throughout the story but boy does she make him work for it! 

Seriously, if you enjoy Jen Turano books or books that will make you chuckle in the middle of a quiet moment then this is the book for you! 

I received this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are my own. 






About the Author 


Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her at www.jenturano.com - https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoaut... , https://www.instagram.com/jenturanoau... or on Twitter at JenTurano@JenTurano.
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Oakwoods Series by Kathy J. Perry ~ Book Spotlight

June 26, 2025

 

Oakwoods Series JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Oakwoods Series by Kathy J. Perry, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


About the Series


Pip O'Possum (Work Then Play)
Sally Skunkskin (Grumbles to Grateful)
Benjamin Bat (Humility)
Nuts (Sharing is Caring)
Jeremy Jay (Resilience) 
Author:
Kathy J. Perry 
Publisher:
Chickadee Words 
Release Date:
April 4, 2025 
Genre:
Early Reader Chapter Books (ages 5-8)


These warm stories invite readers into a woodland world that feels very classic and fun. Kids will like meeting the animals in the Oakwoods series. As they read about the animals' adventures, friendships, and foibles, they'll also discover timeless lessons that feel authentic to the characters and the Oakwoods world—and also applicable to our daily lives.


Teachers and parents of young readers transitioning from picture books will appreciate the easy-to-read font, a glossary, “What If?” discussion questions about the story & application to real life, and a “Did You Know?” section with surprising facts about the real animal. (i.e. blue jays aren’t really blue!)


PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | KathyJPerry.com | Amazon | Barnes & Noble


Excerpt

BENJAMIN BAT:

I’ll show her some tricks she can’t do.

“Watch this now,” he said as he fluttered away. Benjamin zipped and zapped all over the ravine. He sailed over trees and between narrow branches, giving a grand performance for the flycatcher.

Curious, Benjamin glanced toward JoJo for a split- second. His mistake cost him.

A barred owl was in hot pursuit!

Instantly realizing his error, Benjamin turned sharply to avoid capture, but one of the owl’s talons pierced his wing! For a few seconds, Benjamin was helpless. The owl carried him upward, but his wing’s skin tore, freeing Benjamin.

Without full support from both wings, he nose-dived, slapping flat against a large boulder in the gulch. He rolled down hill through broken rocks and tangled roots.

“Ow! Ow!” he cried with each bump and bounce. The barred owl, whose sharp eyes never lost sight of Benjamin, dove down to finish him off.

JoJo sprang into action.

Shocked and angry, she tackled the much larger bird, pecking at its back over and over until it moved on to find an easier meal. Worried for her new friend, she swooped down to Benjamin’s rescue. “Are you okay?”




About the Author


Kathy J Perry

Of the many jobs I’ve held in the past, including thirty-five years of designing and constructing stained glass windows part-time, teaching was one of the most enjoyable for me because investing in kids is so important. To this end, I continue to encourage good character with clean, moral stories kids and teens love to read. Good books make such an impact.


Writing is hard work, but there’s nothing like a good story to run off with your imagination. When things are flowing, it’s like a vacation. Sometimes the best ideas come in the middle of the night. 


When not writing, you’ll find me painting with watercolor, doing school visits, writing a blog, interviewing other writers, designing websites, working as an administrative assistant part-time, and renovating houses. 


Is this retirement? Apparently so! I’m loving every minute of it with my husband of 43 years.


Connect with Kathy J. Perry by visiting kathyjperry.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.



Tour Giveaway


(1) winner will receive a 5-book signed softcover bundle of the Oakwoods Series, bookmarks, and a $50 Amazon digital gift card!


Oakwoods Series blog tour giveaway JustRead Tours

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 24, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 1, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


Enter Giveaway


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


JustRead Publicity Tours
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