Pages

  • Home
  • Meet Me!
  • Homeschooling
  • Disclosures and Review Policy
  • Book Reviews

Social Icons

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama

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

Pages

  • Home

Beauty in the Bittersweet by Jessica Stone ~ Book Review

April 29, 2025

 



Welcome to the Blog Tour for Beauty in the Bittersweet by Jessica Stone, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


About the Book


Beauty in the Bittersweet

Title: Beauty in the Bittersweet
 Series:
A Thornbush and Juniper Story
 Author:
Jessica Stone
 Publisher:
Story Architect
 Release Date: May 5, 2025
 Genre:
Women's Contemporary Fiction (Christian) with romance


 If checking off lists were all it took, Elle Reed could keep   her  life from crumbling around her. But her husband betrays   her trust, her best friend’s recent diagnosis reveals a hidden   trauma, and a secret Elle has been keeping from her mother   has wrecked their Gilmore Girls-esque relationship. Her   career may be the one thing she has control over, and she   holds it tightly with both hands. 


 Then she gets a call she never expects—her mother has   passed away suddenly, taking any hope of reconciliation with her. Discovering Catherine’s collection of devotional journals while packing up her home provides an opportunity to glean the wisdom she so desperately misses. But the journals reveal that her mother had secrets of her own, leaving Elle wondering if anyone in her life is who they say. 


When an upheaval at work rips away the only stability Elle has left, she has to face her biggest fear. What will it take for her to surrender control to The One who’s had it all along?  


PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Jessica Stone Stories | Amazon




My Thoughts


This was my first book by this author and it was such a treat to read. Honestly the cover didn't draw me in but the summary of the book and the words Gilmore-esque  phrase definitely had me hooked and I knew this was something I wanted to read and I am so glad I did. The story completely drew me in but the characters were written so well. The many layers they had unfolded and we saw the issues they were going through. These characters were relatable and I have to say the emotions were so real. Maybe I am speaking because I have the experience of loss with losing my mom last year so I definitely could relate toe Elle and her grief. For me I definitely had to have tissues nearby and seeing Elle and and Micah fighting for their marriage on top of all of this definitely adds to the heightened emotions. 

The plot was great and truly moved at a great pace. Overall I really enjoyed the story and can't wait to see what the author pens next!

 


About the Author


Jessica Stone


Despite her start as a journalist for a faith-based news publication two decades ago, Jessica Stone has always loved fiction. She believes that her testimony and message come most clearly through storytelling, and she loves the process of developing deep—and deeply flawed—characters who find redemption and learn to accept grace, just as she is herself. Jessica and her husband reside in Raleigh, North Carolina, near her parents and other family. This story—and her confidence to write it—were inspired by her own Gilmore Girls-esque relationship with her daughter, who is living out her dreams as a fashion designer in Paris. Beauty in the Bittersweet is Jessica’s debut novel and the first in her A Thornbush and Juniper Story series.


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



Tour Giveaway


(3) winners will receive a print copy of Beauty in the Bittersweet plus a sticker/bookmark, journal and pen set!


Beauty in the Bittersweet blog tour giveaway JustRead

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 29, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 6, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No shipping restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


Enter Giveaway


Beauty in the Bittersweet JustRead Blog Tour


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


JustRead Publicity Tours
read article

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton ~ Cover Reveal

April 17, 2025

 

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton JustRead Blog Cover Reveal

Welcome to the Cover Reveal for The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!



About the Book





Title: The Undercover Heiress of Brockton
Series: Enduring Hope #2 (multi-author standalone series)
Author: Kelly J. Goshorn
Publisher: Barbour Fiction
Release Date: August 1, 2025
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Incognito Reporter Seeks Truth and Justice


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


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


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


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


Will Etta go back to her socialite comforts without her story—dragging along a broken heart?



Ready to see the cover?


The Undercover Heiress of Brockton

PREORDER LINKS: Goodreads | Baker Book House | Amazon | ChristianBook | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub


About the Author

Kelly Goshorn

Kelly Goshorn weaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into inspiring stories of love, faith, and family set in America’s vibrant past. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys, binge-watching BBC period dramas, exploring historical sights, and board-gaming with her family and friends.


Connect with Kelly by visiting kellygoshorn.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 Undercover Heiress of Brockton and a $10 Amazon gift card!


The Undercover Heiress of Brockton JustRead Tours cover reveal giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 17, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 24, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


Enter Giveaway



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

JustRead Publicity Tours
read article

An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus ~ Book Excerpt

April 4, 2025

 



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

About the Book



An Unexpected Companion 
Title: An Unexpected Companion 
Series: K-9 Companions #31, Legacy Ranch #1 
Author: Mindy Obenhaus 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: April 1, 2025 
Genre: Contemporary Romance 

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


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


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


Also Available:


The Cowgirl's Redemption A Christmas Bargain Loving the Rancher's Children Her Christmas Healing Hidden Secrets Between Them Rediscovering Christmas



Excerpt


Dilemma solved, she joined her freshly clothed boys outside where they were playing cornhole in
the shade-covered St. Augustine grass alongside the patio area. Grayson’s mood seemed much
improved. And for that, she was thankful.
“When are we gonna eat?” Her ever-hungry eldest looked her way.
“Soon. Aunt Dee just texted that she’s on her way back.” She paused beside the wood-pellet grill.
“But there are some carrots and hummus on the counter, if you need a snack.”
“`Kay.” Grayson started toward the house.
“Wait for me.” Bryce tossed his beanbag aside and chased after his brother.
After making sure the hopper was full, Tessa ignited the grill.
“I thought I heard voices back here.”
She turned at Dirk’s comment while Nash trotted toward Molly, his tail wagging.
Dirk’s hair was damp and combed back. He’d also traded his work clothes for a heather blue T-
shirt and khaki shorts that revealed his prosthetic leg. Yet for as much as she didn’t want to, she
found herself staring.
Shake it off, Tessa! He’s a normal guy.
One she’d imagined to be a serial killer a few hours ago. Was that messed up or what?






About the Author



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


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




Tour Giveaway


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


Rediscovering Christmas

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


Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.


Enter Giveaway



An Unexpected Companion JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz


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


JustRead Publicity Tours
read article

Kit Kat Camp No Electronics ~ Book Review

April 1, 2025

 



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


About the Book


Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Also Available




My Thoughts


I love the premise of this picture book. Nowadays all you see is kids obsessed with electronics. Even in out household we limit the amount of time that our own kiddos use electronics and we make sure that they spend more time off than on! I really enjoyed that Kit Kat is started no electronics in her camp and made sure that kids used their imagination which in turn opened up a whole new world for the kids and they enjoyed their summer immensely.

My kiddos loved the colorful illustrations and easy to read words. I definitely recommend you grab this book especially if you have a kiddo that enjoys electronics a little too much!


About the Author


Kathy Dye


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


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




Tour Giveaway


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


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


Kit Kat Camp No Electronics blog tour giveaway JustRead Tours


Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 1, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 8, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


Enter Giveaway




Kit Kat Camp JustRead Blog Tour

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

JustRead Publicity Tours
read article
new entries old entries
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Welcome

Welcome
"Kindred Spirits are not so scarce as a I used to think. It's splendid to find out there are so many in the world." Anne of Green Gables

Popular Posts

  • A Slight Change of Plans by Denise M. Colby ~ Book Spotlight
    Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Slight Change of Plans by Denise M. Colby, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours ! About the Book Title: ...
  • A Summer Treasure by Leslea Wahl ~ Book Spotlight
      Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Summer to Treasure by Leslea Wahl, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours ! About the Book Title: A Summ...
  • The Voice We Find by Nicole Deese ~ Book Review
    About the Book  Book: The Voice We Find Author: Nicole Deese Genre: Contemporary Romance Series: Fog Harbor, Book 3 Publisher: Bethany House...

Looking for something?

Featured

Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher ~ Book Review
About the Book  Book: Capture the Moment Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher Genre: Contemporary Romance Series: National Parks Summers, Book 1 Pub...

Archive

  • ▼  2025 (22)
    • ►  June (3)
    • ►  May (6)
    • ▼  April (4)
      • Beauty in the Bittersweet by Jessica Stone ~ Book ...
      • The Undercover Heiress of Brockton ~ Cover Reveal
      • An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus ~ Book E...
      • Kit Kat Camp No Electronics ~ Book Review
    • ►  March (3)
    • ►  February (3)
    • ►  January (3)
  • ►  2024 (47)
    • ►  December (3)
    • ►  November (4)
    • ►  October (2)
    • ►  September (3)
    • ►  August (4)
    • ►  July (2)
    • ►  June (9)
    • ►  May (2)
    • ►  April (6)
    • ►  March (5)
    • ►  February (5)
    • ►  January (2)
  • ►  2023 (66)
    • ►  December (1)
    • ►  November (6)
    • ►  October (6)
    • ►  September (6)
    • ►  August (7)
    • ►  July (6)
    • ►  June (7)
    • ►  May (5)
    • ►  April (6)
    • ►  March (2)
    • ►  February (6)
    • ►  January (8)
  • ►  2022 (139)
    • ►  December (10)
    • ►  November (7)
    • ►  October (11)
    • ►  September (12)
    • ►  August (3)
    • ►  July (7)
    • ►  June (5)
    • ►  May (7)
    • ►  April (9)
    • ►  March (19)
    • ►  February (28)
    • ►  January (21)
  • ►  2021 (357)
    • ►  December (35)
    • ►  November (37)
    • ►  October (40)
    • ►  September (33)
    • ►  August (42)
    • ►  July (23)
    • ►  June (31)
    • ►  May (33)
    • ►  April (23)
    • ►  March (28)
    • ►  February (18)
    • ►  January (14)
  • ►  2020 (193)
    • ►  December (16)
    • ►  November (26)
    • ►  October (24)
    • ►  September (27)
    • ►  August (23)
    • ►  July (22)
    • ►  June (22)
    • ►  May (15)
    • ►  April (15)
    • ►  March (3)

Contact Form

Get new posts by email:

Just Read Tours

Just Read Tours

Revell Reads

Revell Reads

Celebrate Lit

Celebrate Lit

Bethany House

Bethany House

Waterbrook Multonomah

Waterbrook Multonomah

Netgalley

Reviews Published 10 Book Reviews Professional Reader

Goodreads 2023 Challenge

2023 Reading Challenge

2023 Reading Challenge
Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama has read 38 books toward her goal of 85 books.
hide
38 of 85 (44%)
view books

Followers

Latest 'Grams From @sassybookishmama

© Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama.
Theme by Soileilflare.