Sarah’s Search ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Sarah’s Search

Author: Jodie Wolfe

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: June 30, 2026

All her life, Sarah McBride has gone along with whatever her guardian dictates. Now on the verge of graduating from the Shippensburg State Normal School, she questions her ability to teach in a classroom when her heart isn’t in the profession. What she wouldn’t give to pursue her heart’s desire of becoming a writer instead of following what’s expected. But how can Sarah defy her guardian’s plans?

Everything has been a hardship for Ezekiel Stouffer ever since his wife died giving birth to their second child. The last thing he needs is the responsibility of monitoring the new schoolteacher while still maintaining his farm. But when their paths entangle, he can’t help but notice the way his children respond to her tender concern. After his loss, Zeke doubts he’ll ever search for love again, but maybe friendship is an option.

Can two searching hearts find the same path?

Click here to get your copy!

Sarah’s Search by Jodie Wolfe is a Christian Historical Romance.

Have you ever had your life all planned out for you, only to realize that the path everyone expects you to take isn’t the one you really want?

That’s where we find Sarah McBride.

Sarah has spent her entire life doing what her guardian tells her to do. She has followed the rules, made the expected choices, and now she’s preparing to graduate from Shippensburg State Normal School. The obvious next step is teaching, but Sarah has a secret longing that she can’t quite push aside. She wants to write.

And honestly, I could understand Sarah’s struggle. There’s something difficult about knowing what others expect from you while wondering whether that’s really where your heart belongs. Sarah has to decide whether she’ll continue living according to someone else’s plans or find the courage to pursue the dream God has placed within her.

Then Sarah meets Ezekiel Stouffer.

Zeke isn’t exactly looking for a new beginning. Since losing his wife during the birth of their second child, he has been doing his best to keep his farm running while raising his children. He certainly doesn’t need another responsibility added to his already busy life, but that’s exactly what happens when he’s asked to keep an eye on the new schoolteacher.

At first, Sarah and Zeke seem to have little in common. But I loved watching their relationship slowly unfold.

Zeke notices how naturally his children are drawn to Sarah. She is kind, patient, and genuinely cares about them. And while Zeke has convinced himself that he will never love again, friendship seems like a possibility he might be willing to consider.

Sometimes friendship is where the best love stories begin.

One of the things I enjoyed most about this story is that Sarah and Zeke don’t immediately fall head over heels for each other. Their relationship develops through small moments and everyday interactions. There is a sweetness to watching two people who have been hurt in very different ways gradually learn to trust each other.

Sarah’s story especially made me think about how easy it is to become trapped by expectations. How often do we make decisions based on what we think we should do rather than taking the time to ask God what He wants for us? Sarah wants to write, but pursuing that dream means stepping outside the life her guardian has envisioned for her.

Zeke has his own journey of letting go. Grief has become such a significant part of his life that he can’t imagine opening his heart again. I appreciated that his healing isn’t portrayed as something that happens overnight. Moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting the person we’ve lost. Sometimes it simply means being willing to believe that there can still be joy in our future.

And then there are Zeke’s children, who add another special dimension to the story. Watching Sarah interact with them gives us a glimpse of the kind of woman she is and helps Zeke see her in a completely different light.

For me, this story is about much more than whether Sarah and Zeke will find their happily-ever-after. It’s about finding the courage to follow your heart, learning to trust God with the unknown, and discovering that new beginnings can come after seasons of disappointment and loss.

I found myself rooting for Sarah as she wrestled with what she wanted her future to look like. I also found myself hoping Zeke would eventually allow himself to believe that loving again wasn’t a betrayal of the love he had lost.

There’s something comforting about a story that reminds us we don’t always have to know exactly where our journey is taking us. Sometimes we simply have to take the next step and trust God to show us the way.

Sarah is searching for the courage to pursue her dream.

Zeke is searching for a way to move forward.

And somewhere along the way, their paths begin to intersect in a way neither of them expected.

I enjoyed this sweet historical Christian romance and its reminder that God can take the plans we think we need and replace them with something we never imagined—but perhaps something our hearts needed all along.

If you enjoy gentle romance, historical settings, family relationships, faith-filled themes, and characters who are finding their way through life’s challenges, I think you’ll enjoy getting to know Sarah and Zeke.

My Rating: ★★★★☆

Sometimes the road we never intended to travel turns out to be the very road that leads us to where God wants us to be.

So if you are looking for a Christian Historical Romance, check out Jodie Wolfe’s Sarah’s Search. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

JODIE WOLFE loves writing historical fiction after years as a homeschooling mom. She enjoys spending time with her husband in Pennsylvania, reading, knitting, and walking. Jodie creates novels where hope and quirky meet.

More from Jodie

Almost ten years ago, a big Victorian house was for sale. I had the pleasure of touring it and taking photos of the exterior and interior. I knew I would eventually set a story there. Fast forward to spring of this year, and it was finally time to write about the setting in Shippensburg, PA. The house has changed very little through the years, so it’s easy to imagine life in 1878 along Normal Avenue. The house is located at the bottom of the hill where the Cumberland Valley State Normal School started in 1873*. It soon changed its name to Shippensburg State Normal School and eventually Shippensburg University.

Since I have my heroine living in the old house at the start of Sarah’s Search, she also attends the normal school and graduates before she becomes a teacher in Newburg, PA at the Mount Jackson one-room schoolhouse.

It is no longer in Newburg, but is on the grounds at Shippensburg University and set up as it would have looked when used many years ago.

I love when I can envision history coming to life by visiting places like the house, normal school, one-room schoolhouse, as well as the local churches and towns that were around in the time period that I used in my recent book. I had the distinct pleasure of finding three local historians. Two with expertise in the two different towns I wrote about in Sarah’s Search, along with one who was a former archivist at Shippensburg University. What a treasure they’ve been to me.

As you read Sarah’s Search, I hope you’ll enjoy stepping back in time as much as I did while writing it.

*The cornerstone was laid May 31, 1871.

Blog Stops

Pause for Tales, August 20

Simple Harvest Reads, August 21 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, August 22 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, August 23 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 23

Texas Book-aholic, August 24

Fiction Book Lover, August 25 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, August 26 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, August 27 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, August 28 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 29

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 30 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, August 31 (Author Interview)

Stories By Gina, September 1 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, September 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jodie 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/FXNuc/sarahs-search-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Guided Gratitude Journal ~ A Review & Giveaway

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!

Finding Joy in the Everyday: A Review of A Guided Gratitude Journal by Donna Wyland

Gratitude sounds simple, but living with a genuinely thankful heart can be surprisingly difficult. When life is busy, disappointing, or uncertain, it is easy to focus on what is going wrong rather than recognize the blessings God has placed right in front of us. A Guided Gratitude Journal by Donna Wyland offers an inviting way to slow down, reflect, and intentionally cultivate a heart of gratitude.

As a Christian guided journal, this is much more than a collection of blank pages with a few inspirational sayings sprinkled throughout. Wyland approaches gratitude as a gift from God and encourages readers to explore how thankfulness can draw us closer to Him, change our perspective, and help us discover greater peace.

One of the things I appreciated most about this journal is that it isn’t meant to be read from beginning to end like a traditional book. Instead, it invites you to participate. The prompts encourage you to stop, think, write, pray, and examine your own heart. Each page becomes an opportunity to look beyond the circumstances of the moment and recognize God’s goodness.

Whether gratitude comes naturally to you or you struggle to see the blessings in your life, there is something meaningful here. The guided prompts make it easier to get started, while the accompanying commentary provides encouragement and perspective. Scripture and thoughtful quotes add another layer of reflection, continually pointing the reader back toward God’s presence and faithfulness.

I especially like the balance Wyland creates between instruction and personal reflection. She doesn’t simply tell readers why gratitude matters; she gives them opportunities to put it into practice. The activities encourage you to move beyond simply thinking, “I should be more thankful,” and actually begin to notice the people, moments, blessings, and answered prayers that you might otherwise overlook.

From a Christian perspective, gratitude is about far more than keeping a positive attitude. It is an act of worship. When we intentionally recognize God’s blessings—even in seasons that aren’t easy—we remind ourselves that our hope isn’t ultimately found in perfect circumstances. It is found in a faithful God.

That makes this journal particularly meaningful for anyone who wants to deepen their spiritual life while developing a daily habit of thankfulness. The simple practice of pausing to write down what you’re grateful for can become a time of prayer and communion with God.

A Guided Gratitude Journal is a gentle reminder that sometimes we don’t need to change our circumstances to experience a change in perspective. We need to slow down long enough to notice what God is already doing.

If you’re looking for a devotional-style journal that combines Scripture, thoughtful commentary, quotes, reflection, and practical activities, this would be a wonderful addition to your quiet time. Keep it beside your Bible, use it during your morning routine, or turn to its pages whenever you need a reminder to look for God’s goodness.

Ultimately, A Guided Gratitude Journal encourages us to make gratitude more than an occasional response to something wonderful. It invites us to make thankfulness part of the way we live—and in doing so, to discover the peace, joy, and deeper awareness of God that can grow from a grateful heart.

So if you are looking for a guided Journal, check out A Guided Gratitude Journal by Donna Wyland. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

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.

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 Darling’s Daughter ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Darling’s Daughter

Author: Sydney Schmied

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: August 4, 2026

A woman chasing the truth. A man running from his past. And a secret that threatens the fragile trust between them.

Searching for answers about her mother’s suspicious death, artist Angelica Woods takes a job painting backdrops at the Majestic Theater—the very place her famous actress mother warned her to avoid. When she discovers cryptic notes and bloody evidence of an old murder, Angie realizes her mother’s warning may have been meant to protect her from a deadly secret.

Architect Trace Ackerman has worked hard to build a quiet, respectable life far removed from his former mistakes. Renovating the Majestic is meant to be a fresh start—until Angie awakens feelings he never planned to risk again. Drawn to her courage and vulnerability, Trace offers his protection as rumors swirl and danger edges closer. But the past he’s worked so hard to outrun threatens to surface, and Trace fears the truth could cost him Angie’s trust—and the future he longs to build.

With a killer determined to silence them both, Angie and Trace must decide if uncovering the truth about her mother’s death is worth risking their own lives—and hearts. Set against the backdrop of a historic theater in 1912 Ohio, this romantic suspense weaves together murder, betrayal, and the redeeming power of faith and forgiveness.

Click here to get your copy!

The Darling’s Daughter by Sydney Schmied is a Christian Historical Romance.

Some secrets are worth uncovering. Others might get you killed.

For artist Angelica “Angie” Woods, the search for answers about her mother’s suspicious death leads her straight to the one place she was warned never to go—the historic Majestic Theater. Taking a job painting theatrical backdrops seems harmless enough, until Angie discovers cryptic notes and bloody evidence pointing to a long-ago murder. Suddenly, her mother’s warning takes on an entirely new meaning.

And Angie isn’t the only one with something to hide.

Trace Ackerman has worked hard to leave his troubled past behind and build a quiet, respectable life. Renovating the Majestic is supposed to be a fresh start, but meeting Angie changes everything. He’s drawn to her courage and vulnerability and soon finds himself wanting to protect her. The problem? Trace knows that the secrets he’s been running from could cost him the one thing he’s beginning to care about most—Angie’s trust.

I loved the way this story combines historical mystery, romance, danger, and faith. The 1912 Ohio theater setting creates the perfect atmosphere for a suspenseful tale filled with hidden clues, unanswered questions, and the uneasy feeling that someone is watching from the shadows.

Angie is a determined heroine who refuses to stop searching for the truth, even when the answers become increasingly dangerous. Trace brings his own emotional depth to the story as he wrestles with regret, fear, and the possibility of starting over. Watching their relationship develop while they navigate secrets and danger adds an engaging romantic thread to the suspense.

But at the heart of the story is something even more meaningful: the power of forgiveness and the courage to trust God when the past refuses to stay buried.

With a mysterious death to solve, a killer determined to silence them, and two wounded hearts learning to trust, this story delivers plenty of twists, romance, and suspense. If you enjoy Christian historical romantic suspense with an atmospheric setting, intriguing secrets, and a strong message of faith and redemption, this is a story you won’t want to miss.

So if you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, check out The Darling’s Daughter by Sydney Schmied.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Sydney Schmied writes sweet and intriguing historical romantic suspense stories with a whole lot of faith. She is a 2023 ACFW First Impressions Contest finalist and a 2024 Genesis Contest Semi-finalist, as well as a two-time Scrivenings Press Get Pubbed Finalist. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, painting, and sipping on a classic London Fog.

More from Sydney

Theaters tell so many stories, and in The Darling’s Daughter, The Majestic Theater itself has been shaped by the people who have passed through its doors. While it was known as The Masonic Opera House from 1853 to 1915, The Majestic has stood through nearly 173 years of history. I can’t help but wonder about all the individuals who walked its halls, performers, musicians, and attendees alike, and what stories they might tell about how their lives once intertwined with the Majestic.

In my research, I came across so many real accounts of people who visited theaters like this one, and I was able to glimpse bits and pieces of that connection. For Angie, the heroine in The Darling’s Daughter, The Majestic becomes a place of reckoning and reconciliation. Her mother was her only family, and even that relationship was strained. Angie carries a deep loneliness as she peels back the complicated layers of her late mother’s life, wrestling with questions of worth, belonging, and whether she is truly loved.

For Trace, The Majestic offers both a meaningful project and a chance to rebuild. Unfortunately, his identity has been constructed atop the fragile foundation of guilt, and that foundation begins to crack as his past resurfaces.

Just as The Majestic has stood strong through seasons of change and still stands today, Angie and Trace are refined through their struggles as everything around them begins to shift. Neither of them are defined by the broken parts of their story, but by their hope in Christ, even when that hope feels uncertain and their faith is shaky. If this resonates with you, I hope you’ll join Angie and Trace in The Darling’s Daughter and find encouragement in their journey.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 19

Devoted Steps, August 19

Books Less Travelled, August 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 21

Texas Book-aholic, August 22

Connie’s History Classroom, August 23

For Him and My Family, August 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 24

Lyssa Loves Books, August 25

Holly’s Book Corner, August 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 27

Pause for Tales, August 28

Devoted to Hope, August 29

Book Looks by Lisa, August 30

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 30

Cover Lover Book Review, August 31

Lily’s Corner, September 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sydney 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/TyDfI/the-darlings-daughter-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wildflower Bride ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Wildflower Bride

Author: Mary Connealy

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: August 11, 2026

From bestselling author Mary Connealy comes a thrilling Western romance about finding belonging in unexpected places—a tale of a fierce woman warrior caught between two worlds, a gentle-hearted rancher, and the faith that brings them together. Perfect for fans of historical romance and unconventional heroines.

Abby has lived with the Flathead tribe since they rescued her as a child, forgetting her white heritage. But when her village is massacred, and she’s saved by kind-hearted rancher Wade Sawyer, she’s forced to confront her past and future. Though drawn to Wade’s gentle strength, she refuses to be bound to the white world that once abandoned her.

Wade Sawyer has spent his life trying to please his tyrannical father while battling his own demons. When he finds Abby—fierce, independent, and unlike any woman he’s known—he sees a chance at real love. But winning the heart of a woman who trusts no man and bridging the gap between two worlds seems impossible.

As they face deadly rustlers, family conflicts, and their own fears, Wade and Abby must learn to trust in God’s plan for their lives. But can Abby let down her defenses and embrace a future with Wade? And can Wade prove that true strength lies in gentleness and faith?

A moving story of finding home, healing from the past, and discovering that love knows no boundaries in the untamed Montana Territory.

Click here to get your copy!

Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy is a Christian Historical Romance.

Finding Home Where You Least Expect It

Mary Connealy delivers another captivating Western romance with a heroine who is anything but ordinary. Set against the rugged Montana Territory, this story blends adventure, romance, family conflict, and faith into a moving tale about finding where—and with whom—you truly belong.

Abby has spent most of her life with the Flathead tribe, the people who rescued and raised her after she was separated from her white family. After tragedy destroys her village, she is rescued by rancher Wade Sawyer. Fierce, independent, and wary of the white world, Abby has no intention of letting anyone control her future.

Wade is immediately drawn to Abby, but earning her trust won’t be easy. As danger from rustlers, family tensions, and painful memories threaten to pull them apart, both must confront the wounds of their past and learn to trust God’s plan.

I especially enjoyed the contrast between Abby’s fierce strength and Wade’s gentle nature. Their relationship feels like a journey rather than an instant romance, making their growing trust and connection all the more meaningful. Connealy also does a wonderful job weaving faith naturally into the story without overshadowing the adventure.

With plenty of action, heart, and an unconventional heroine who refuses to fit neatly into anyone’s expectations, this is a memorable historical romance about healing, belonging, and discovering that home can sometimes be found in the most unexpected place.

A heartfelt and adventurous read for fans of Christian historical romance, Western settings, and strong heroines.

So if you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, check out Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist. She is the bestselling author of over 80 books and novellas. She has over a 1.8 million books in print.

Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or find her at Petticoats & Pistols!

More from Mary

I try to write books I love, and I re-read my own books. I’m a big re-reader and if I find myself uninterested in a book I wrote, I take that as a bad sign.

I happen to LOVE Wildflower Bride as much as any book I’ve ever written.

I wrote for ten years before I got my first book published. On that fateful day when I earned my first contract, I had twenty finished books on my computer. And I didn’t just write them and move on. I’d go back (re-reading even then) and polish them. I took stand alone books and shortened them, lengthened them. Turned them into series, saved all versions in case an editor wanted a series or did NOT want a series.

Each book well, not ALL twenty of them, but a whole bunch, had about nine versions, all saved separately. Love Inspired length, trade fiction length, series, stand alone. I kept them all. But when I felt like I’d really improved one of them, I went back to the other versions and made those same improvements. I did a LOT of writing within those twenty books.

Wildflower Bride was the first book I wrote from scratch after I signed a contract for it. Maybe for this reason, I especially love it. I took everything I knew, everything I learned and put it into this book. I remember staring at that blank page…I had about six books published by this time…and holding my hand flat on the computer screen and praying, God help me to remember everything I’ve learned.

The hero is Wildflower Bride is the villain in Montana Rose. He is wretched. But to me, he was a broken man. My editor, when I told her Wade was the hero, said, “I can’t imagine it, but go for it.”

He is saved at the end of Montana Rose. A young Christian trying to do right in the face of enormous pressure from his powerful, abusive father, in The Husband Tree, and a sad, lonely, but strong man, still growing in his faith at the same time he’s very solid in it, in Wildflower Bride.

I just loved him.

I love the wild beginning of Wildflower Bride, the heroine is an adult woman taken in by an Indian tribe at the age of ten when they find her, alone in a cabin, with her family all dead from a fever. She loves the people who saved her.

Then people start trying to save her from the tribe and she is insulted and wants no part of this new world when her small band of native family is killed in a massacre. Again, she survives.

Abby, she only vaguely remembers her birth name, fits nowhere. And she’s so at home in the wilderness she’s planning to live on her own, somewhere.

Wade falls desperately in love with the strength he finds in her.

These two need each other so badly, but Abby is a hard one to convince she should spend her life with Wade.

Then Abby finds that one of her family, an older brother who didn’t come west with her family, is alive and living nearby.

The way they discover each other, well, I just love it. Wade is starting to look pretty good compared to the grouchy, quick to swing a fist, brother. Still, she begins to remember her big brother, and she remembers loving him. Abby is a confused woman.

Can Abby find her place anywhere in the world? Can Wade find enough backbone to stand up to his father…so far he’d just cut him out of his life. But Pa needs him even if he’s too awful to admit it. Wade’s pa needs God, too.

And those evil men who destroyed her village, haven’t gone away and they want more from Wade and Abby than anyone can imagine. They have to be stopped and Abby and Wade have to find a way to work together to stop them.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 18

Texas Book-aholic, August 19

Labor Not in Vain, August 20

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 21 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 21

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 23

Book Holds and Jello Molds, August 24

Guild Master, August 25 (Author Interview)

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 26

Simple Harvest Reads, August 27 (Guest Review from Donna)

Holly’s Book Corner, August 28

Cover Lover Book Review, August 29

Fiction Book Lover, August 30 (Author Interview)

The Vine and The Branch, August 31

Mary Hake, August 31

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary 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/reBqi/wildflower-bride-celebration-tour-giveaway

Liam and the Cooking Disaster ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Liam and the Cooking Disaster

Author: D. R. Whitehead

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction (Chapter Book)

Meet the boys of the Messy Adventures in Friendship Bro Squad Series. Get ready to encounter different friendship situations and see what messy friendship adventures Kevin, Liam, Grayson and Miles have for you to explore. Created by the author of the Messy Adventures in Friendship Series.

Liam loves to cook, but his creations always end in culinary disaster! When a cooking competition is announced, Liam decides to enter. His chances of winning seem impossible, until he decides to pair up with the school’s infamous mean girl, Shayla. She may be known for being mean and having a bossy attitude, but there’s no denying her talent in the kitchen. Will Liam be able to put aside his dislike for Shayla and work together to win the competition, or will their conflicting personalities lead to disaster?

Click here to get your copy!

Liam and the Cooking Disaster by D.R. Whitehead is Middle Grade Fiction (Chapter Book).

When Friendship Gets Messy—and Delicious!

Friendship isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to work with someone who gets on your last nerve! Messy Adventures in Friendship Bro Squad Series introduces readers to Kevin, Liam, Grayson, and Miles as they navigate the ups, downs, and downright messy moments that come with being friends.

In Liam’s adventure, his love of cooking is matched only by his talent for turning perfectly good recipes into culinary disasters. So when the school announces a cooking competition, Liam sees it as the perfect opportunity to prove himself. There’s just one problem—he needs a partner.

Enter Shayla, the school’s infamous mean girl.

Shayla may be bossy, intimidating, and not exactly Liam’s favorite person, but there’s one thing they can both agree on: she knows her way around a kitchen. If Liam wants a chance at winning, he’ll have to put aside his dislike of Shayla and learn how to work with someone whose personality clashes with his own.

And, of course, when you combine a cooking competition with two very different personalities, you can expect things to get messy!

What I enjoyed about this story is the way it takes a relatable friendship challenge and turns it into a fun, entertaining adventure. Kids will recognize those moments when getting along with someone isn’t easy, yet working together is still important. Liam’s experience offers a great reminder that we don’t have to like everything about someone to respect their abilities, cooperate, and find a way to accomplish something together.

The story also brings plenty of humor and heart, making it an enjoyable read for young readers while sneaking in some meaningful lessons about friendship, teamwork, patience, and looking beyond first impressions.

Messy Adventures in Friendship Bro Squad Series sounds like a fun series for kids who enjoy relatable characters, silly situations, and stories that remind us that friendships can be messy—but they can also be worth the effort. And with Liam’s kitchen disasters in the mix, readers are sure to have plenty of reasons to smile along the way!

A fun, lighthearted adventure with a meaningful message about friendship, teamwork, and learning to get along—even when personalities collide.

So if you are looking for Middle Grade Fiction, check out Liam and the Cooking Disaster by D.R. Whitehead.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

D. R. Whitehead is a Christian Children’s author who has been writing for several years. She is dedicated to providing books for the youth to read and enjoy. The author currently resides in New York and enjoys time with her family and going to the beach.

More from D.R.

 Blog Tour Kick-Off: Liam and the Cooking Disaster 

Welcome to the blog tour celebrating Liam and the Cooking Disaster—a fun, funny, and heartwarming middle-grade adventure that proves teamwork can be the secret ingredient to success! Filled with humor, friendship, and plenty of kitchen chaos, Liam and the Cooking Disaster is a delightful read for ages 8–12.

 Why Young Readers Will Love This Book

• Laugh-out-loud cooking mishaps
• A relatable underdog hero
• An unlikely friendship that grows throughout the story
• A fast-paced competition that keeps readers turning pages
• Positive messages about teamwork, perseverance, and looking beyond first impressions

 Bonus Fun: Recipes Included in the Book!

One of the sweetest parts of this book is that the fun doesn’t stop when the story ends. Readers can head to the kitchen and try recipes inspired by the book, including:

Chocolate Syrup Cake

A delicious treat perfect for aspiring bakers who want to create something sweet after finishing the story.

Oobleck

Part science experiment, part kitchen fun, Oobleck is a hands-on activity that’s sure to delight curious minds. Is it a liquid? Is it a solid? Readers can discover the answer for themselves!

 Perfect For Fans Of…

• Funny middle-grade adventures
• School competition stories
• Books featuring friendship and personal growth
• Cooking-themed books and kitchen adventures
• Hands-on activities and recipes

 Join the Blog Tour!

Over the coming days, be sure to follow along as we celebrate Liam and the Cooking Disaster with reviews, features, spotlights, and more. There will be plenty of opportunities to learn about the book, meet the characters, and discover why this entertaining story is sure to become a favorite among young readers.

Blog Stops

Simple Harvest Reads, August 11 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 12

Guild Master, August 13 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 14

Fiction Book Lover, August 15 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 15

Texas Book-aholic, August 16

The Bookish Ledger, August 17 (Author Interview)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 18

Stories By Gina, August 19 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, August 20

Books, Books, & More Books, August 21 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 22

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

Artistic Nobody, August 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, D.R. is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a paperback 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/FtwS9/liam-and-the-cooking-disaster-celebration-tour-giveaway

Shetland Sunset ~ A Review & Giveaway

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!

Shetland Sunset by Linda Shenton Matchett is a Christian Suspense novel.

Courage, Resistance, and a Love Worth Fighting For

Imagine watching the country you love being taken over and knowing you can’t just sit back and do nothing. That’s exactly where Tonje Bondevik finds herself when German forces invade Norway—and she refuses to surrender without a fight.

Tonje throws herself into the resistance, secretly distributing an underground newspaper and taking part in acts of sabotage. For a while, she feels like she’s finally doing something that matters. But resistance work is dangerous, and it doesn’t take long before the Nazis come looking for her.

Suddenly, Tonje is running for her life.

And perhaps the one person who can help her is the handsome Norwegian American she once turned down when he offered to take her to safety in Shetland. Now, with danger closing in, she may have to reconsider both his offer—and what she truly feels for him.

I was immediately drawn into Tonje’s story. She’s brave and determined, but what makes her so compelling is that she doesn’t feel invincible. She’s frightened, she’s vulnerable, and she knows exactly what she stands to lose. Yet she keeps going because her love for Norway is stronger than her fear.

The wartime setting adds plenty of suspense, while the romance gives the story an emotional heart. I especially enjoyed the tension between Tonje’s fierce independence and the possibility that she might actually need someone else to help her survive.

This is the kind of historical story that reminds us that courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about choosing to do what’s right even when you’re terrified of the consequences.

If you enjoy WWII historical fiction filled with danger, courageous characters, resistance fighters, and a touch of romance, this one deserves a spot on your reading list.

Tonje’s fight for freedom may cost her everything. But sometimes the things worth fighting for are worth risking everything to save.

So if you enjoy Christian Suspnse novels, check out Shetland Sunset by Linda Shenton Matchett.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

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.

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

Hidden Legacy ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Hidden Legacy (An H & G Mystery Book 2)

Author: Christina Rost

Release Date: August 5, 2025

Genre: Romantic Mystery/Suspense

When Emersyn Zucker meets Lucas Bennett, it’s love at first sight. But both harbor family secrets, and their blossoming romance soon gets tangled in a web of deception.

After uncovering her great-grandfather’s connection to a clandestine society known as H & G, Emersyn begins to question everything she’s ever known. Should she embrace the society or distance herself from her family ties and renounce her great-grandfather’s legacy? And if she joins H & G, how would Lucas react to her secret double life?

The mysterious disappearance of a century-old Bible forces Emersyn to choose where her true loyalties lie, because if the ancient text falls into the wrong hands, the consequences could be deadly.

Thrust into the treacherous world of treasure hunting, Emersyn and Lucas embark on a perilous journey where secrets abound—and trust is a luxury Emersyn can’t afford.

Click here to get your copy!

Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost is a Romantic Mystery Suspense novel. It is the second book in the An H & G Mystery series.

Secrets, Mystery, and a Love Worth Fighting For: A Review of H & G

What would you do if you discovered your family had been hiding a secret for generations—and that secret could put your life in danger?

That’s exactly what happens to Emersyn Zucker. She meets Lucas Bennett and immediately feels a connection. Still, their romance quickly becomes complicated when Emersyn discovers her great-grandfather was involved with a mysterious organization known as H & G.

Now Emersyn has some serious decisions to make. Should she embrace her family’s mysterious legacy or walk away from it? And if she becomes involved with H & G, how can she keep Lucas from discovering the truth?

Things become even more complicated when a century-old Bible disappears. Suddenly, what started as a family mystery turns into something much more dangerous. If the Bible falls into the wrong hands, the consequences could be deadly.

I really enjoyed the mix of romance, mystery, adventure, and suspense in this story. Emersyn and Lucas have an instant connection, but falling in love is the easy part. With both of them keeping secrets, trust becomes much harder to come by. I found myself wondering right along with Emersyn about who she could believe—and what secrets were still waiting to be uncovered.

The treasure-hunting aspect adds another fun layer to the story. There are plenty of questions, unexpected discoveries, and dangerous situations to keep the story moving. I especially liked how the mystery surrounding H & G and the missing Bible ties into Emersyn’s struggle with her family’s past and the choices she has to make for her future.

At its heart, this is a story about trust, loyalty, family, and love. Emersyn has to figure out whether she can separate her own identity from her family’s secrets while protecting the people she cares about most.

If you enjoy Christian romantic suspense with hidden societies, family secrets, treasure hunts, and plenty of mystery, H & G is an intriguing read. There’s enough danger and unanswered questions to keep you turning the pages, while the developing relationship between Emersyn and Lucas adds a sweet romantic thread to the adventure.

Sometimes discovering the truth is only the beginning. The real challenge is deciding what to do with it.

So if you enjoy romantic mystery suspense novels, check out Hidden Legacy by Christian Rost.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Christina Rost is an award-winning author, mother to three amazing children, and is married to her high school sweetheart. While she currently resides in Oklahoma City, she’s lived all over the US, a few years in the UK, and loves to travel. When she isn’t spending time with her family or writing you’ll find her chatting over coffee and perusing antique stores for tattered books.

More from Christina

Hidden Legacy was birthed from a story I read about a woman living in North Korea who buried her Bible in her garden. In the dead of night, when her family slept, she would carefully dig it up, brush off the soil, and read by the faint glow of moonlight—knowing discovery could mean imprisonment, torture, or death for her entire household.

Her courage reminds me that God’s Word is not just comforting; in places like North Korea, it is life itself.

This harrowing story, and others like the North Korean believers, sheds light on how often I take for granted the freedom I enjoy. Here in my home, multiple Bibles rest openly on shelves—different translations, study editions, even large-print versions I can read without fear. I flip through them casually during quiet times and discuss them freely with family and friends. Yet for our brothers and sisters in North Korea, a single page of Scripture is a priceless treasure worth risking everything for.

My deepest hope is that Hidden Legacy would stir readers to learn more about our brothers and sisters in Christ living in hostile locations. Just like 1 Corinthians 12 states, we are all part of one body: “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.” (1 Corinthians 12:26 ESV)

But not only to learn about their plight — I hope it also moves us to pray.

Pray fervently for Bibles to reach believers through every possible channel in these hostile regions. Pray for God to protect and strengthen the underground church.

And never forget, Love is a Legacy.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 15

Simple Harvest Reads, August 16 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 17

Artistic Nobody, August 18 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 19

Guild Master, August 20 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, August 21

Fiction Book Lover, August 22 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, August 23

The Bookish Ledger, August 24 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 24

Pause for Tales, August 25

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 26 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Corner, August 27

Texas Book-aholic, August 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Christina is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon 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/y4erV/hidden-legacy-celebration-tour-giveaway

FELONS and FINDERS ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: FELONS & FINDERS (Granite & Gloss Rescuers: Book 2)

Author: LR STRONG

Genre: Christian Suspense

Release Date: January 18, 2026

Powerful forces hide the most dangerous felons.

Jake Granite is more determined than ever to take down every criminal he possibly can—especially those targeting the most vulnerable. But even working with his private investigation team and law enforcement task forces, it’s been impossible. They always arrive at the scene of the crime too late. It’s infuriating. Who is at the top and who are the informers?

Tarina Gloss has commissions for sculptures and paintings but no time to work on them. After unexpectedly being pulled into Jake’s work, she is eager to save every victim she can. But she’s not equipped or experienced in this type of work. What can she possibly do to help?

Jake and Tarina discover a new partner wants to join them. He’s the Finder, and no felon can hide from him. The only problem is that the Finder only gives them confusing clues—or sets them up to stumble on the criminals in action. He does things in unpredictable ways each time, so they never know what to expect.

Soon they are in over their heads. Tragedies happen, leaving them confused. Can they handle working with the Finder? Most of all, can they trust him?

Click here to get your copy!

FELONS and FINDERS by LR Strong is a Christian Suspense novel.

What if the people you’re hunting are always one step ahead—and the only person who can find them refuses to give you a straight answer?

Jake Granite is determined to bring down the criminals preying on the most vulnerable. But despite working alongside his private investigation team and law enforcement task forces, they keep arriving just moments too late. Someone powerful is protecting these felons, and Jake needs to uncover who is calling the shots—and who is feeding them information.

Then Tarina Gloss is unexpectedly pulled into Jake’s dangerous world. Sculptures and paintings, not crime scenes and endangered victims, should fill her days. Yet her heart won’t let her walk away. Even without the experience or training Jake has, Tarina is determined to make a difference.

Then comes the Finder.

No criminal can seem to hide from him. The problem? The Finder doesn’t exactly cooperate. Instead of providing clear answers, he leaves behind puzzling clues or somehow leads Jake and Tarina straight into the middle of a crime. His methods are mysterious, unpredictable, and sometimes downright unsettling.

And when Jake and Tarina think they’re beginning to understand him, everything changes.

Tragedy strikes. The danger escalates. And the question becomes impossible to ignore: Can they really trust the Finder?

This suspenseful story had me hooked with its intriguing mystery and unpredictable twists. I loved the unique concept of the Finder and the way his cryptic clues kept both the characters—and me—guessing. Every discovery seemed to raise another question, making it difficult to know whom to trust or where the investigation would lead next

Jake’s determination and Tarina’s compassion make them a compelling team, especially as they find themselves facing dangers far beyond anything they expected. Their desire to protect victims adds an emotional depth to the suspense and keeps the story grounded in something bigger than simply catching criminals.

If you enjoy Christian suspense packed with mystery, danger, unexpected twists, and characters who refuse to give up, this is a story that will keep you turning pages and asking one question: Who is the Finder really working for?

So if you enjoy Christian suspense novels, check out FELONS and FINDERS by LR Strong. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

LR Strong is a writer, editor, singer, songwriter, photographer, and people watcher. Her life is colored by synesthesia, and she views others through the lens of spiritual gifts. She’s equally creative and cerebral—her first career was computer programming. Her deepest loves are Jesus, family, friends, and her three delightful rescue cats. And eating dark chocolate while reading a riveting book.

More from LR

I experience life in colorful and unusual ways because I have synesthesia. Do you know what that is? Most people don’t. You can experience living with synesthesia through my main heroine, Tarina. She’s also a strong believer who has spiritual gifts. I pair her up with a hardcore ex-LAPD cop, now criminal detective, who relies solely on his street smarts and physical abilities. These two opposites are thrown together in deadly situations and have to combine their unique strengths to not only survive, but take down criminals and save victims. In the process they help save each other.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 8

Stories By Gina, August 9 (Author Interview)

Book Looks by Lisa, August 9

Blossoms and Blessings, August 10 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 11

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, August 12 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, August 13

Books, Books, & More Books, August 14 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 15

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 16 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 17

Books Less Travelled, August 18 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, August 19 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 19

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 20 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Corner, August 21

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, L.R. is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and an ebook of Granite & Gloss (book 1) and Felons & Finders (book 2)!!

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

https://gleam.io/hxQVd/felons-finders-celebration-tour-giveaway

Painkillers ~ A Review & Giveaway

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!

Painkillers by Reverend Jacky Connell is a non-fiction Christian work.

What If the Answer to Your Pain Isn’t Another Painkiller?

What do we reach for when life hurts?

For some, it’s medication. For others, it’s isolation, unhealthy relationships, endless busyness, shopping, sports, achievement, or even intellectual pursuits. We may not realize it, but many of us have our own ways of avoiding the pain we carry. We keep moving, stay distracted, or build walls around our hearts because facing what hurts feels too difficult.

But what if we stopped trying to numb the pain and instead brought it to the One who can truly heal it?

That is the compelling question at the heart of Painkillers.

This book takes an honest look at the many ways people attempt to cope with emotional and spiritual pain. Some solutions may seem obvious, while others can hide in plain sight. We can become so busy filling the empty spaces in our lives that we never stop to ask why those spaces exist in the first place.

And sometimes our “painkillers” aren’t substances at all.

They can be relationships. Success. Hobbies. Shopping. Sports. Busyness. Even our own intellect.

Anything can become a substitute for the healing we need when we use it to avoid confronting what is broken inside us.

What makes Painkillers stand out is its answer to that brokenness: Jesus.

Rather than offering another temporary escape, the book introduces readers to Christ as the ultimate Painkiller—the One who doesn’t simply mask our wounds but offers genuine hope, forgiveness, restoration, and freedom.

The author doesn’t shy away from difficult subjects. Painkillers explores the pain that can come from broken relationships, trauma and PTSD, guilt surrounding abortion and other sins, and struggles surrounding sexual identity. These are deeply personal and sometimes controversial topics, but the book approaches them through the lens of faith and the belief that God’s grace reaches even the places we would most like to hide.

I especially appreciated the book’s challenge to look beyond the obvious forms of pain avoidance. It’s easy to recognize when something destructive has taken control of a person’s life. It’s much harder to recognize the seemingly harmless things we use to keep ourselves distracted.

How often do we stay busy because silence makes us uncomfortable?

How often do we surround ourselves with people because being alone forces us to face our emptiness?

How often do we hide behind what we know because acknowledging what we feel is harder?

Those questions make Painkillers a book that encourages more than simply reading—it encourages reflection.

The message is ultimately one of hope. We don’t have to spend the rest of our lives defined by our past. We don’t have to carry guilt forever. We don’t have to hide our wounds or pretend we’re stronger than we are. And we don’t have to keep searching for something that will temporarily make the pain disappear.

Jesus offers something far greater than temporary relief.

He offers redemption.

He offers forgiveness.

He offers freedom.

Painkillers is a thought-provoking, faith-filled reminder that the things we use to numb our pain can never provide the lasting healing our hearts truly need. If you’ve ever wondered why the things you thought would make you feel better never quite filled the emptiness inside, this book invites you to consider a different answer.

What if you don’t need another painkiller? What if you need the Healer?

For anyone willing to take an honest look at the hurts, habits, and distractions that can keep us from experiencing God’s healing, Painkillers offers a message worth considering—and a powerful reminder that no matter how deep the wound, Jesus is still the source of hope, grace, and freedom.

So if you are looking for a non-fiction Christian work, check out Painkillers by Reverend Jacky Connell.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

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.

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

Logan vs. the Pouty Paw Paw ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Logan vs. the Pouty Paw Paw

Author: Allen Brokken

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

Logan has a lip so pouty his Pa is sure a bird is going to poop on it.

Shoveling coal as a furnace feeder at the foundry is hot, sweaty work, but Logan is determined to pay off his debt for a broken spyglass—even if his lower lip sticks out the whole time. But when a “Pouty Paw Paw” tree begins growing in the soot of the foundry’s smokestack, the town of Blooming Glen starts catching a bad case of the “pouts”. When Gran’s legendary joyful jam is stolen and replaced with a “darkness jam” that makes everyone hateful, Logan must trade his gloom for the fruit of joy. With his pet raccoon Rascal by his side, Logan is about to prove that a joyful heart is the best weapon against a stinky, pouting plot!

Click here to get your copy!

Logan vs. the Pouty Paw Paw by Allen Brokken is a Middle-Grades Fantasy novel. Having read other books by Allen Brokken, I looked forward to reading this story, and it lived up to my expectations.

Pouts, Paws, and the Power of Joy!

What happens when a boy with a spectacularly pouty lip, a mischievous raccoon, a strange tree, and a batch of sinister jam collide? Trouble, of course! But in Logan’s case, trouble also comes with an important lesson about where true joy comes from.

Logan has a problem. Actually, he has a pout where his lower lips sticks out so far that his Pa believes a bird might swoop down and leave a little something on it.

But Logan is pouting for a reason. He’s working hard as a furnace feeder at the foundry, shoveling coal in the sweltering heat to pay off his debt for a broken spyglass. It’s exhausting, dirty work—and Logan isn’t exactly thrilled about it.

Then a very peculiar thing happens.

A “Pouty Paw Paw” tree begins growing in the soot around the foundry’s smokestack. And before long, something even stranger spreads through Blooming Glen: the pouts are contagious!

Suddenly, people who were once happy and kind are grumpy, bitter, and downright unpleasant. And when Logan’s Gran discovers that her legendary joyful jam has been stolen and replaced with a mysterious “darkness jam,” it becomes clear that something sinister is brewing.

Thankfully, Logan doesn’t have to face it alone.

With his clever and entertaining pet raccoon, Rascal, at his side, Logan sets off on an adventure that is equal parts hilarious, mysterious, and heartwarming. But defeating the darkness won’t happen by simply fighting back. Logan must learn to replace his gloom with something far more powerful—the fruit of joy.

That’s what makes this story so much more than a fun adventure.

Beneath the silly pouts, stinky smokestacks, mischievous raccoon antics, and mysterious jam is a beautiful reminder that joy is a choice. It’s easy to be joyful when everything is going our way. But what happens when we’re tired, disappointed, frustrated, or dealing with circumstances we didn’t choose?

Logan discovers that true joy isn’t dependent on having an easy life. It comes from trusting God and allowing Him to transform what’s happening inside our hearts.

I especially enjoyed how the story makes this important biblical truth accessible to young readers without becoming preachy. The message is woven naturally into Logan’s adventure, giving children plenty to laugh about while also giving them something meaningful to think about.

And Rascal? Let’s just say that every adventure is better with a raccoon tagging along!

With its quirky characters, laugh-out-loud moments, imaginative plot, and encouraging faith message, this is the kind of story that can entertain children while planting a valuable truth in their hearts. Logan’s journey reminds readers that when darkness tries to take over, joy can be a powerful weapon.

So, if you’re looking for a story filled with humor, adventure, friendship, faith, and just the right amount of raccoon mischief, Logan’s story is one to add to your reading list.

Just beware of the pouts—and whatever you do, keep an eye on your jam!

So if you are looking for a middle-grades fantasy novel, check out Logan vs. the Pouty Paw Paw by Allen Brokken.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Allen Brokken is a teacher at heart, a husband and father most of all. He’s a joyful writer by the abundant grace of God. He began writing the Towers of Light series for his own children to help him illustrate the deep truths of the Bible in an engaging and age-appropriate way. He’s dedicated 15 years of his life to volunteer roles in children’s ministry and youth development. Now that his own children are off to college he’s telling stories and sharing clean humor on social media.

More from Allen

“Logan vs. the Pouty Paw Paw” is a special book in the series “Logan’s search for the Fruits of the Spirit” because it was written with the support of my stepdad, John Beghtol.  In the spring of 2025, we were working through the death of my Mom from a long battle with cancer.  He found out my kids were running a Kickstarter for one of my picture books, Meow Meow Milks the Cow, and decided to support it.  As a supporter, he earned the option to share some creative direction on one of my upcoming projects.

Over the summer of 2025, I was doing some research for my next Logan book, looking for a native Midwestern fruit that would be good for representing sadness, to contrast with the spiritual fruit of joy.  I learned that Paw Paws were a rare native fruit that would have been used to make jam in the 1860’s.  So, they seemed like a good fit, especially if they were Pouty Paw Paws.  It also kind of fit what was going on with us, both of us were sad at the loss of my mom, and many people use the name Paw Paw as another name for a Grandfather. So, it spawned the idea that Gramps from the Towers of Light series could be a key character in this adventure.

I shared an early flight plan for the story with him, and he liked it in principle, but then provided an idea around a mysterious stranger entering the town.  I like the idea, but I felt a little stuck because this story takes place after the Towers of Light series, where all the bad guys had been defeated, so who was this mysterious stranger?  Eventually, I just wrote a mini story about the stranger to place him in the city, and I was off with a solid story to tell.

The story ended up being a good cross-section of dealing with sadness of different forms, from being upset over chores that feel to hard, to the loss of a loved one. At the same time, I kept the fun and hijinks that only a boy and his pet raccoon can get into.  I hope your child enjoys it as much as I did while writing it with my Bonus Dad.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 6

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 7 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 8 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, August 9 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, August 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 11

Books, Books, & More Books, August 12 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, August 13 (Author Interview)

Fiction Book Lover, August 14 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, August 14

Vicky Sluiter, August 15

Labor Not in Vain , August 16

The Bookish Ledger, August 17 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, August 18 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, August 18

Stories By Gina, August 19 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Allen 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/tMg4L/logan-vs-the-pouty-paw-paw-celebration-tour-giveaway