Embers of Endurance ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Embers of Endurance: Rising Above Chronic Pain and Illness

Author: Carolyn Dale Newell

Genre: Christian Devotional

Release Date: February 17, 2026

When chronic pain invaded Carolyn Dale Newell’s life, it didn’t just attack her body—it attacked her faith.

Through crippling sciatica, major spinal fusion surgery, and countless complications that left her in agony, Carolyn found herself in the darkest valley she’d ever known.

But in that darkness, she discovered something powerful: God’s grace truly is sufficient, even when it doesn’t feel like it.

In this raw, honest 30-day devotional, Carolyn walks alongside you through the unique spiritual battle of chronic illness. She shares the biblical truths that sustained her through the fire and will sustain you too.

Like embers rising from ashes, you can find beauty again.

Begin your journey from surviving to thriving in chronic pain now.

Click here to get your copy!

If you are looking for a Christian devotional, you need to check out Embers of Endurance: Rising Above Chronic Pain and Illness by Carolyn Dale Newell.

Have you ever gone through a season of life when you knew God was there, but struggled to feel His presence? When you’ve prayed, trusted, and waited, yet nothing seems to change? I think those can be some of the hardest moments in our walk with Christ. We know what Scripture tells us about God’s faithfulness, but holding on to those truths when life hurts isn’t always easy. That’s one of the reasons Carolyn Dale Newell’s 30-day devotional resonated with me.

Carolyn shares her personal journey through chronic pain, including debilitating sciatica, major spinal fusion surgery, and complications that challenged her physically, emotionally, and spiritually. What stood out to me wasn’t just everything she endured, but how honestly she shares the struggles with her faith. I appreciate that vulnerability because I think, as Christians, we sometimes feel like we’re supposed to have it all together, even when we’re barely holding on.

One of the things I appreciated most was that Carolyn doesn’t offer quick fixes or make suffering sound easier than it is. Instead, she shares the biblical truths that helped her through some incredibly difficult days. Sometimes, we don’t need someone telling us to have more faith. We need encouragement from someone who understands the struggle and can gently point us back to God’s Word.

The message of God’s sufficient grace especially spoke to my heart. One of the prayers I often return to is, “Not in my own strength, Lord, not in my own strength. Guide me. Direct me. Help me.” As I reflected on Carolyn’s story, I was reminded how often I want God to give me answers instead of simply trusting Him. I like knowing what’s ahead, and waiting on His timing isn’t always easy. But sometimes He doesn’t show us the whole picture. He gives us the strength to take the next step.

I also loved the imagery of embers rising from the ashes and the reminder that beauty can still be found amid suffering. Sometimes we’re so focused on wanting our circumstances to change that we overlook the quieter ways God is working—a timely Scripture, an encouraging conversation, or an unexpected moment of peace. Those little reminders of His presence can mean so much.

Although this devotional is written for those living with chronic pain, I believe its message reaches beyond physical suffering. We all face seasons when life feels overwhelming and trusting God is easier said than done. I appreciate that Carolyn reminds us we can bring our fears, frustrations, and questions to Him without pretending everything is fine.

What stayed with me most is that hope doesn’t always mean our circumstances will change. Sometimes, it means learning to recognize God’s presence right where we are. I think that’s an especially meaningful message for anyone facing ongoing struggles.

If you or someone you love is dealing with chronic pain, I would encourage you to consider this devotional. Even if chronic illness isn’t part of your story, there’s encouragement here for anyone walking through a difficult season.

More than anything, this devotional reminded me that I don’t have to have all the answers or face life’s challenges in my own strength. I need to keep turning to the One who does.

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

So if you want a new Christian devotional, check out Embers of Endurance: Rising Above Chronic Pain and Illness by Carolyn Dale Newell. I definitely recommend it.

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

About the Author

Carolyn Dale Newell is a bestselling and award-winning Christian author, certified speaker, andcontributor to iBelieve.com. Despite living with chronic pain, she empowers women to break free from emotional strongholds and embrace lives transformed by faith. She resides in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia with her husband and their two loyal Black Labrador Retrievers.

More from Carolyn

The Reason I Wrote Embers of Endurance

While discouragement had its tentacles wrapped tightly around me, it seemed easier for doubt to chisel away at my faith. Before I realized it, I was depressed, living without joy and peace. Life seemed hopeless because surgery changed my life forever.

Once God brought me out of the darkness, I began finding Scriptures I’d never given much attention. Job and the psalmist felt like I did. Elijah gave up and couldn’t resist the threat in his life. I was in good company, and so are you, my friend. I realized I walked a horrific journey of pain due to scoliosis to share my experience with you.

These devotions aren’t filled with one victory after another, but rather a slow steady pace to living like the conqueror God has made each of us to be.

I felt like my life was a pile of ashes, but then embers began to rise above that pile. Something new began to spark in my life. God gives us beauty for ashes, and I want to help you find beautiful again.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 21

Texas Book-aholic, October 21

Simple Harvest Reads, October 22 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, October 23 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, October 24 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 25

Fiction Book Lover, October 26 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, October 27 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, October 28 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 29

Mary Hake, October 29

For the Love of Literature, October 30 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 31 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, November 1 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 2

Stories By Gina, November 3 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carolyn 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/srRQl/embers-of-endurance-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Grief Shared ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss    . . . and Life

Author: Ladonna Shanks

Genre: Memoir

Release Date: June 23, 2026

Do you find yourself overcome while living in the darkness of loss? Do you wonder if it will ever end . . . or if you will even survive?

In My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss . . . and Life, Ladonna Shanks shares a message of hope while chronicling her persornal experience with grief. The essays, written in the midst of her grief journey, are bare, raw, open, and honest. Woven throughout these insightful anecdotes, however, is the fact that death is not the sole source of loss and ensuing grief, making this a relatable read for all. The book can minister to anyone who deals with grief and loss.

A light at the end of the tunnel exists. There is hope.

Click here to get your copy!

My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss    . . . and Life by Ladonna Shanks is a memoir.

Grief can be such a lonely journey. When we lose someone or something important to us, it can be hard to imagine a time when the pain won’t feel quite so heavy. Sometimes, we need someone to remind us that what we’re feeling is okay, that we’re not alone, and that there is still hope even when life feels dark. That’s the message I took away from My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss . . . and Life by Ladonna Shanks.

What makes this book special is the honesty with which Ladonna shares her story. Written while she was walking through her own grief, her words feel raw, personal, and real. She doesn’t try to make grief sound neat or simple. Instead, she gives readers a glimpse into the difficult emotions that come with loss, making it easier to connect with her experiences and reflect on our own.

One thing I especially appreciate is that this book recognizes grief isn’t just about death. We can grieve relationships, changes in our lives, and the loss of things we once held dear. Those experiences may look different from person to person, but the hurt is still real. I think that’s an important reminder because grief doesn’t always look the way we expect, and sometimes we don’t even realize we’re grieving until we take the time to acknowledge what we’ve lost.

I also love that the heart of this book is hope. When you’re in the middle of grief, it can be difficult to believe that things will ever get better. The pain can feel endless, and even ordinary days can be a struggle. But healing doesn’t mean forgetting, and it doesn’t mean we have to stop missing the people or things we’ve lost. It means learning to carry that loss as we slowly find our way forward.

As someone who values faith, I find comfort in the reminder that we don’t have to face those difficult seasons alone. God doesn’t ask us to pretend we’re okay when we’re hurting. We can bring Him our sadness, our questions, and even the moments when we don’t have the words to pray. Psalm 34:18 tells us that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted. What a beautiful reminder that even when we feel surrounded by darkness, we are not beyond His comfort and care.

My Grief Shared is a small book with a message that may mean a great deal to someone who is struggling. Ladonna’s willingness to share her experiences offers readers an opportunity to feel understood and reminded that grief is a journey, not something we get over. If you’re dealing with loss yourself or know someone who is, this collection of essays may offer a little comfort and encouragement when it’s needed most.

My final thoughts: I appreciate the honesty and hope behind this book. Grief is never easy, and everyone’s journey looks different, but there’s something comforting about knowing we’re not the only ones trying to find our way through the darkness. Sometimes, we need that reminder that it’s okay to hurt, it’s okay to take our time, and it’s okay to hope for brighter days ahead.

Even when we can’t see the light just yet, that doesn’t mean it’s not there. There is hope, even in the midst of grief.

So if you enjoy memoirs, check out My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss    . . . and Life by Ladonna Shanks.

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

About the Author

Octogenarian Ladonna Shanks has published two other books of personal essays: Tidbits and Pearls: A Book of Essays on Living Everyday Life with God, A Cascade Award finalist, and Sermons from a Soapbox. My Grief Shared was also a finalist in the Cascade Awards Contest. She strives in all she does to honor God and encourage others.

More from Ladonna

I did not plan on writing another book after publishing Sermons From a Soapbox. However, when my partner passed away three years ago, I began writing as a means of comfort and solace. I tossed my essays into a drawer and, after two and a half years, realized I had made it through the dark tunnel of grief back into the “land of the living.”

Death is not the sole source of grief and loss. My heart’s desire is to share with others that “You are not alone,” and “If God did it for me, He can do it for you.”

It’s a “tiny” book, only 10,000 words, but it is “mighty.”

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 15

Simple Harvest Reads, October 16 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, October 17 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, October 18 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 19

Fiction Book Lover, October 20 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, October 21 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 21

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, October 22 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, October 23

Books, Books, & More Books, October 24 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 25 (Author Interview)

Books Less Travelled, October 26 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 27

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, October 28 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, October 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Ladonna is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card, a copy of my book, and a variety set of 6 handmade floral photo note cards, (including birthday, sympathy, and thank you)!!

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

https://gleam.io/98wTW/my-grief-shared-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Ties That Bind ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Ties That Bind

Author: Jane Bayly Vaughan

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release Date: April 14, 2026

In 1830s Cornwall, Grace Bayly faces unimaginable events that threaten the survival of her family. Her father and half of her large family are an ocean away and her mother and remaining siblings are poised to follow. As hardships close in, hopes of a new beginning grow distant. She must summon fortitude borne of love and sacrifice to hold her family together. Amid the unyielding grip of loss and grief, Grace steels herself to persist as she faces the ultimate challenge that threatens to break her.

Will Grace find the strength she needs to ensure her family survives?

A poignant tale of loyalty, resilience, and the enduring bonds that shape a woman’s courage when everything she cherishes is at stake.

Inspired by real people and events.

Click here to get your copy!

If you enjoy Historical Fiction, you should check out The Ties That Bind by Jane Bayly Vaughan.

How do you find the strength to keep going when it feels like everything you love is slipping away? That’s the question at the heart of this story, and it’s what makes Grace Bayly’s journey sound so compelling to me.

Set in 1830s Cornwall, this story introduces us to Grace Bayly, whose world is upended by circumstances that threaten her family’s very survival. Her father and half of her large family are already an ocean away, while her mother and remaining siblings are preparing to follow. What should be the beginning of a new chapter instead becomes a time of uncertainty, hardship, and heartbreaking loss. With their future growing increasingly uncertain, Grace must find a way to hold her family together when everything seems to be working against them.

What strikes me most about Grace’s situation is the tremendous weight she carries. How do you stay strong for the people you love when you’re struggling with your own grief? How do you keep hoping for a better tomorrow when each new challenge makes that hope feel a little more distant? These are the kinds of struggles that make a character’s journey feel real, and I can imagine Grace’s determination and sacrifices making this an emotional read.

I especially appreciate stories that show courage in its many forms. Sometimes courage means standing up and fighting back, but other times it means getting out of bed, facing another difficult day, and continuing to care for the people who depend on you. Grace’s story seems to embody that quieter, often overlooked kind of strength. Her love for her family becomes the reason she keeps pushing forward, even as grief threatens to overwhelm her.

The fact that real people and events inspire this story makes it even more intriguing to me. There’s something powerful about reading a story rooted in real lives and remembering that the hardships, sacrifices, and difficult choices faced by these characters reflect experiences people actually lived through. It makes Grace’s struggle feel all the more meaningful.

I also love that this story explores the enduring bonds of family. Families don’t always have an easy road, and sometimes circumstances force people to make heartbreaking sacrifices. Yet love can give us a reason to keep going when we might otherwise feel like giving up. I’m curious to see how Grace navigates the losses she faces and whether she can find the strength to protect the people who mean so much to her.

If you enjoy historical fiction filled with heartfelt family relationships, emotional challenges, and a strong heroine fighting for the people she loves, this story deserves a place on your reading list. Grace Bayly’s journey sounds like a moving reminder that even in our darkest moments, love can give us the courage to face another day.

Sometimes the most powerful stories aren’t about having an easy path or a perfect ending. They’re about discovering just how much strength we have when the people we love are counting on us. And that is what makes Grace’s story one I would be interested in exploring.

So if you are looking for Historical Fiction, check out he Ties That Bind by Jane Bayly Vaughan.

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

About the Author

Jane’s love of God and family permeates her life, including her passion to share stories rooted in genealogy and history. She weaves the theme of family into the fabric of her historical fiction and dives deep, by writing about true events and people.

Using her 20+ years of experience in genealogy research as a family historian, Jane has written articles and short stories. She was awarded a travel grant by the Cornish American Heritage Society and visited Cornwall to walk in the footsteps of her ancestors and research her roots.

Jane has won several awards for her writing, and invites readers to experience timeless lessons of faith, resilience, and heritage that echo from the past into our lives today.

She makes her home in the beautiful lowcountry of South Carolina with her husband of 45+ years. They have two grown children, and lots of cats.

To learn more about Jane, visit her at JaneBaylyVaughan.com and sign up for her newsletter to receive an award-winning short story that will introduce you to the series A Story of Grace.

More from Jane

I have been a long-time family historian for over twenty years. When COVID hit, I was at a crossroads and could choose the next grand adventure. As I took stock, I revisited a question that had nagged me on and off for some time: how do I ensure the family history is not forgotten? Around that time, a friend of mine invited me to observe a writer’s group. I accepted her invitation, and after one meeting, I became a member of Word Weavers International. I knew that writing stories about my ancestors would generate interest among my relatives.

I faced a learning curve and dedicated myself to writing brief scenes as submissions each month. At first, I considered this venture as something fun, not to be taken seriously, but after several months, someone I respect encouraged me, and so I applied myself. As my writing improved and my research continued, I thought of my four^th great-grandmother from Cornwall. A story formed, and I wrote all my submissions to the writer’s group about her in a fictional narrative. After a year or two attending the writer’s group, I was suffering from imposter syndrome and needed encouragement from sources who were not familiar with me. I wrote a short story and entered it into a contest as validation to either continue writing or quit altogether.

I attended the Florida Christian Writers Conference in 2024 and sat white-knuckled as they announced the short story winners. They announced third place first, and I didn’t win, so I almost stopped listening because I assumed I hadn’t placed at all. They announced second place, and of course, someone else won. Then the announcer paused and explained that the first-place winning piece was so good they said it was ready for publication. The words, “In first place is ’Becoming Grace’ by Jane Vaughan,” shocked me! That was a God moment, and I realized He was offering me a partnership.

Driven by my love for family history, I found my next grand adventure: partnering with my Creator to create stories that help us remember the resilience and sacrifices of our ancestors and how their lives affect us today. Ultimately, my stories are about how important it is to love each other. The Ties That Bind is the first book in the series A Story of Grace.

Blogs Stops

Books Less Travelled, October 20

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , October 21

Simple Harvest Reads, October 22 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 23

Texas Book-aholic, October 24

Blossoms and Blessings, October 25 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, October 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 27

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 28

Stories By Gina, October 29 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Pilgrim, October 29

Avid Reader Nurse, October 30

Cover Lover Book Review, October 31

Holly’s Book Corner, November 1

Pause for Tales, November 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jane 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/94vrw/the-ties-that-bind-celebration-tour-giveaway

Off the Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Off The Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure

Author: Susan Count

Genre: Children’s Fiction

Just because your cousin jumps from a train in the wilderness doesn’t mean you should too.

After planning a fun experience for a year, two Texas cousins make their first trip to Montana. When their train stalls, the boys leap from it into the white wilderness, beginning a perilous run for their lives.

As a blizzard hits, the boys spend a miserable night trying not to freeze. They struggle along the tracks to find shelter, but a disaster leaves them exposed to the elements and every famished wild creature.

Frustrated by their too-real situation, Davy and Anderson struggle to endure. Instead of vacationers at a wolf sanctuary, they become players in an unplanned survival experience.

Click here to get your copy!

If you are looking for Children’s Fiction, you should check out Off the Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure by Susan Count.

I have to admit, when I read that two cousins jumped off a stalled train into the snowy Montana wilderness, my first thought was, “What were they thinking?” Just because your cousin decides to do something crazy doesn’t mean you have to go along with it! But that’s exactly what Davy and Anderson do, and their decision turns what should have been a fun vacation into a fight for survival.

The two Texas cousins have spent an entire year planning their first trip to Montana. They’re looking forward to visiting a wolf sanctuary and enjoying an adventure together. But when their train stalls, things take an unexpected turn. Instead of staying put, the boys jump off the train and find themselves in the middle of a situation they never could have imagined.

As a blizzard moves in, Davy and Anderson struggle to stay warm and find shelter. Things go from bad to worse when another disaster leaves them exposed to the freezing temperatures and hungry wild animals. Their exciting vacation has turned into a nightmare, and now they have to figure out how to survive.

Honestly, I can’t imagine being stuck out in the wilderness during a blizzard, especially with hungry animals nearby! I would like to know how I could have gotten out of that situation, and I wish I had made some very different decisions. The boys certainly get more adventure than they bargained for!

What I find interesting about this story is how quickly things can go wrong when we act without thinking through the consequences. Most of us have made decisions in the moment that we later wish we could take back, even if they weren’t quite as dangerous as jumping off a train in the middle of nowhere. Davy and Anderson’s experience is a pretty dramatic reminder that sometimes it’s worth taking a moment to think before acting.

I enjoy stories that put characters in difficult situations and make them figure out how to handle things they never expected. With the harsh Montana wilderness, a blizzard, and hungry wildlife, Davy and Anderson certainly have their work cut out for them!

If you enjoy adventure stories with plenty of danger, unexpected challenges, and characters who find themselves way over their heads, this sounds like a fun read to check out. As for me, I’ll pass on jumping off a train in the wilderness. I’ll leave that kind of adventure to Davy and Anderson!

So if you are looking for Children’s Fiction, I definitely recommend checking out Off the Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure by Susan Count.

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

About the Author

Susan Count writes for the joy and entertainment of young readers. She is an Amazon best-selling, award-winning author of the Dream Horse Adventures Series, Dream Pony Riders Series, and Texas Boys Adventures.

She prefers to create stories in a quiet zone. Out her window, her mind wanders through the forest and keeps her in a grateful, contented state of being. Susan writes at a fabulous antique desk that has secret compartments filled with memories, mysteries, and story ideas. As a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and American Christian Fiction Writers, she takes studying the craft of writing seriously.

Susan confesses to being overly fond of brownies, and horseback riding on forest trails. She is a lifelong equestrian and is owned by a Rocky Mountain Horse.

Her newest release, Off The Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure was written for her four grandboys who wanted an adventure of their own. What’s a fairy grandmother to do but wave her magic pen and create.

More from Susan

Ten of my novels are horse books for girls. On the rare occasions that I do a book sales table, I’m inevitable asked if I’ve written any books for boys. So, I wrote this two book series (Texas Boys Adventures) because you asked and kept asking. You and my four grandsons. Finding wholesome books that will engage 8- to 12-year-old boys is a parental challenge.

I’m so old school. Let the kids keep their childhood for as long as possible. I believe in protecting their young hearts and minds. Give them adventures where they learn to build friendships and be the hero of their own stories. Capture their interest and then

encourage and strengthen them to grow into the arrows they are destined to be.

No pictures— have a couple ad images if you want them…

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 17

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 18 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, October 19

Simple Harvest Reads, October 20 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, October 21

Artistic Nobody, October 22 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 23

Guild Master, October 24 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 25

Fiction Book Lover, October 26 (Author Interview)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 27

Lots of Helpers, October 27

The Bookish Ledger, October 28 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, October 28

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, October 29

Vicky Sluiter, October 30

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Susan 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/eMueJ/off-the-rails-a-wilderness-survival-adventure-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Bible Companion Book 10 ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John The Gospels

Author: Karen Westbrook Moderow

Genre: Bible Study

Release Date: May 29, 2026

What do you think about Jesus?

The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John explores the gaps between our view of Christ and who Bible says He is. A simple one-chapter-a-day format lets you engage with Scripture without the pressure of schedules, homework, or heavy reading loads. Short daily readings and thought-provoking questions connect your story to God’s Word. For personal, group, or homeschool Bible study.

After four hundred years of silence, when Israel has nearly given up hope of a messiah, God sends Jesus. The four Gospels introduce us to this long-awaited Savior but also chronicle the profound disappointment Jews feel when they realize He has not come to restore their nation. Jesus refuses to be boxed in by our limited view of Him. As Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John reveal a Savior who redefines power and love, we discover that our expectations are not too great but too small.

Click here to get your copy!

If you are looking for a Bible Study, check out The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John The Gospels by Karen Westbrook Moderow.

One thing I love about Bible studies is when they encourage me to slow down, look beyond the familiar stories, and really think about what God is showing me through His Word. The Bible Companion Book 10: Matthew–John focuses on something I think we can all struggle with at times: seeing Jesus for who He truly is rather than who we expect Him to be.

I appreciate the simple one-chapter-a-day format of this study. Life gets busy, and sometimes it can be difficult to find a Bible study that feels manageable without becoming another item on an already full to-do list. The short daily readings and thought-provoking questions offer an opportunity to spend time in Scripture, reflect on what I’m reading, and consider how it applies to my own life. I also like that the format works for personal study, group discussion, or homeschool use.

What really caught my attention, though, is the idea that our expectations of Jesus may actually be too small. That thought gives me something to reflect on. It’s easy to have our own ideas about how God should work in our lives, especially when we’re praying for something important or waiting for answers. We want to understand His plans, and sometimes we expect Him to work in ways that make sense to us. But God sees so much more than we do.

As we read through Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we see that Jesus wasn’t the Messiah many people expected. They wanted a Savior who would restore their nation, but Jesus came with a greater purpose. He challenged people’s understanding of power, demonstrated a love unlike anything they had known, and offered salvation that went far beyond their earthly expectations.

I find that reminder especially meaningful in my own walk of faith. How often do I focus on what I think God should do instead of being open to what He wants to teach me? It’s a good reminder that following Jesus means being willing to let go of my own assumptions and trust Him, even when His plans look different from what I imagined.

I also appreciate that this study isn’t just about learning more facts about the Gospels. The questions encourage readers to connect God’s Word with their own experiences and faith. For me, that’s an important part of Bible study. I want to do more than read a passage and move on with my day. I want to take time to consider what it reveals about God and how I can carry that truth with me.

The Bible Companion Book 10: Matthew–John offers a straightforward, approachable way to spend time in God’s Word while taking a closer look at Jesus and examining our own expectations of Him. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a manageable Bible study that encourages personal reflection and a deeper understanding of Christ.

My biggest takeaway from the study’s central message is that Jesus is so much greater than the expectations and limitations we place on Him. I know I need that reminder sometimes. Rather than trying to fit God into my plans, I want to keep learning to trust Him, seek Him through His Word, and remain open to what He wants me to see. After all, we may think we know what we need from Jesus, but He knows our hearts and sees the bigger picture in ways we never could

So if you are looking for a Bible Study, check out The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John The Gospels by Karen Westbrook Moderow.

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

About the Author

KAREN WESTBROOK MODEROW is a Bible teacher and author who brings a storyteller’s perspective to Scripture. She holds master’s degrees in theology and creative writing and loves introducing others to Jesus through the stories told in God’s Word.

More from Karen

Bread is a big deal in the Gospels. After feeding thousands with just a few barley loaves and two fish Jesus says, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:35). The night of His arrest He takes a loaf of bread and says to His disciples, “Take and eat. This is my body” (Matt. 26:26). Bread. Jesus makes this simple food a symbol of Himself because it represents what we must have to live. I think about this often now that I’ve started baking my own bread.

Bread-making is the next logical step in my quest for a healthier lifestyle. Years ago, I cut out fast foods. Sodas. Processed foods (except for Fritos which I still enjoy with a sandwich on occasion J). But despite the many health gurus who say we should cut bread out of our diets my family has bread every day.

I’m from Texas. My grandparents had biscuits for breakfast, cornbread for dinner (noon meal) and yeast rolls for supper. If my grandmother didn’t have time to make rolls (which happened more often as she aged), she served Wonder Bread stacked high on a plate. In those days, we all bought the hype—“Wonder Bread builds strong bodies 12 ways!” We sometimes commented on the wonder of it all—no pun intended—that science had improved on a staple mankind has eaten for centuries. Only it didn’t. Our taste buds told us that the bread my grandmother made was infinitely better but other voices won out.

I make my own bread now to assure that what I take into my body is as clean as I can make it. I use flour without glyphosate and the best organic ingredients I can find. But do I succeed in making a bread that is free of all contaminants? No. There’s not a plot of ground or a man-made product on earth that is 100% pure. But every loaf of bread I bake is a revolution of sorts—a rejection of a system I don’t think has my best interest at heart. My efforts are imperfect but they’re a sign I see the problem and want to address it.

Spiritually, the path is similar. We’re hungry. We want and need to eat. We crave bread. But God’s Word warns us that what the world offers is not good. Whatever nutrition it offers can be saturated with things not easily seen—a distorted view of Christ, a subtle twisting of the truth, a self-focused gospel that appeals to our pride and greed. If we are spiritually discerning, we will recognize that these things can hurt us. But once we know it, what do we do? The danger is that our response is to “make our own bread” thinking that our improved spiritual resources and knowledge can create a life-giving loaf. But our best intentions and efforts to live like Jesus will always fall short. Just as we cannot eliminate all contamination from our food, we cannot eliminate sin’s influence in our lives. But wanting to be holy—to be like Jesus—is a step forward. It’s like me deciding that I don’t want to eat the bread found on the grocer’s shelf and choosing to do something about it. But that’s where the analogy ends. I can make better bread, but not perfect bread. I can make bread that satisfies my physical body for a time but not one that fills my deepest needs or gives me eternal life.

Sometimes when I make bread, I fail massively. The bread doesn’t rise. It’s too dense. Too doughy. Too dry. Other times, it is delicious, crusty, and fragrant. But every time I make it, I think of Jesus’s words, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever” (John 6:51). I use my bread-making time to think on the One who is Himself the bread of life. If that sounds good to you, try making one of my favorite recipes and enjoy both the bread and your time with the Lord.

1 Hour Yeast Rolls  – 2 Dozen

To Begin:

Turn oven onto lowest temp (around 170 degrees)

Crack 1 egg in a bowl (to reach room temperature)

Set out a 9” x 13”plus an 8” x 8” pans. Grease or line with parchment paper

You can substitute a cookie sheet OR (2) 12-cup muffin pans.

In a stand mixer bowl:

Whisk together

3 ¾ to 4 cups BREAD FLOUR

¼ cup granulated sugar

2 pkg rapid rise/ yeast (4 ½ tsp)

1 tsp salt

In microwave-proof glass measuring cup:

    Heat to 100–115 degrees (90 sec.)

1 ½ cups whole milk

2 TBS unsalted butter

    Add (whisk) into warm milk mixture

1 egg (room temperature)

2 TBS olive oil

Place dough hook on mixer.

     Slowly add warm milk mixture to dry ingredients on low speed. 

(Confirm temp is still at 100–115 degrees)

Increase speed slightly and knead for 6-8 minutes.

Dough will be smooth and sticky.

If too sticky, add 1 tsp flour at a time and knead until dough holds together.

COVER tightly with plastic wrap and let rest for 5–10 minutes.

Turn dough out onto lightly floured surface.

Flour hands and using a scraper, divide the dough in two.

Shape one portion into a log and divide into 12 equal pieces.

Close the ends of each piece together at the top then turn it over and roll into a smooth ball on the counter.

Place pinched side down into the greased dish or muffin pans

Repeat with the second log.

Cover bread with a clean kitchen towel. You should have 24 rolls total.

TURN OFF THE OVEN you’ve preheated to 170 degrees and place bread in oven.

Let dough rise until double in size (approx. 20 minutes).

REMOVE ROLLS FROM OVEN

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Just before placing in oven a second time, brush tops of rolls with an egg wash (1 egg, lightly beaten with a splash of water).

BAKE 16–18 minutes.

Brush baked rolls with melted butter and sprinkle lightly with coarse salt.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 14

She Lives To Read, October 15

Lots of Helpers, October 15

lakesidelivingsite, October 16

Fiction Book Lover, October 17 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 19

Texas Book-aholic, October 20

Artistic Nobody, October 21 (Author Interview)

Writing from Walsh Mountain, October 21

Simple Harvest Reads, October 22 (Guest Review from Donna)

Mary Hake, October 23

Cover Lover Book Review, October 24

Guild Master, October 25 (Author Interview)

Lights in a Dark World, October 26

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen 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/XhgP0/the-bible-companion-book-10-matthewjohn-the-gospels-celebration-tour-giveaway

Wounds and Rescues ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Wounds and Rescues

Author: Kathleen Rouser

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: October 6, 2026

A nurse with a wounded heart. A former lawman haunted by loss. An attraction neither can afford.

Rose Sinclair has built a careful new life in Stone Creek, hiding her painful past beneath a high lace collar. When private investigator Caleb Ellis arrives claiming he’s found a grandfather for two orphans she’s grown to love, she’s determined not to trust him—or let him take the children she’s come to cherish.

Caleb needs Rose’s cooperation to reunite the children with their family. But as questions begin to surface and shadows from Rose’s past reappear, it becomes clear someone is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the truth buried.
Forced to travel west posing as husband and wife, Rose and Caleb must protect the children while outrunning a past determined to destroy them. As danger closes in, Caleb must confront the faith he abandoned, and Rose must decide if she can risk her heart again.

Because this time, trusting the wrong person won’t just break them—it could cost them everything.

Perfect for fans of Karen Witemeyer and Mary Connealy, this faith-filled historical romance features a forced-proximity journey, blending danger, redemption, and a road that leads two wounded hearts toward love.

Click here to get your copy!

If you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, you should check out Wounds and Rescues by Kathleen Rouser.

I’ve always had a soft spot for stories about people who have been hurt by life but aren’t quite ready to give up on love. There’s something about watching a wounded heart slowly begin to heal that gets to me, especially when faith plays a part in that journey. That’s what appeals to me about this story of Rose Sinclair and Caleb Ellis. They’re both carrying hurts from the past, and learning to trust again isn’t going to come easily for either one of them.

Rose has finally managed to build a new life for herself in Stone Creek, but she’s keeping her painful past tucked away behind a carefully guarded heart. When Caleb arrives with news that he’s found a grandfather for the two orphans Rose has grown to love, she isn’t exactly thrilled to see him. She’s afraid of losing the children who have become so precious to her, and I can understand why she’s reluctant to trust someone she barely knows. When you’ve already been hurt, it can be hard to believe that letting someone new into your life won’t lead to more heartache.

Caleb has his own share of pain and regrets. A former lawman haunted by loss, he’s determined to reunite the children with their family. Unfortunately, getting Rose to cooperate is only the beginning of their troubles. When danger starts closing in, and Rose’s past threatens to catch up with her, the two find themselves traveling west while pretending to be husband and wife. I love that kind of setup in a historical romance! Two people who are trying to keep their distance suddenly have to spend every day together, all while protecting two children and trying to stay one step ahead of danger.

But what I find especially appealing about this story is that it goes deeper than a developing romance. Both Rose and Caleb have things they need to work through before they can move forward, and I always appreciate seeing that kind of emotional growth in the books I read. I want to see characters who feel real, who struggle with their pasts, and who have to make difficult choices before they can find their happily-ever-after.

The faith element is particularly meaningful to me. Caleb has turned away from his faith, and I’m interested in seeing how he comes to terms with his loss and finds his way back to God. I think many of us can understand how difficult it is to keep trusting when life doesn’t turn out the way we hoped. Sometimes our disappointments leave us with questions we don’t know how to answer, and we may even struggle to understand where God is in the middle of it all. I love stories that remind me that even when we struggle, God is still there, patiently drawing us back to Him.

I’m also drawn to Rose’s love for the two children. The thought of her fighting to protect them, even when she has so much of her own pain to deal with, says a lot about her heart. I have a hard time resisting stories that bring together romance, children, and the idea of finding family in unexpected places. There’s something beautiful about people who have experienced loss discovering that they can still love deeply and have something wonderful to look forward to.

And honestly, I think the idea of learning to trust again is one of the most touching parts of a story like this. It’s one thing to want a fresh start, but it’s another thing entirely to let go of the fear that the past will repeat itself. Rose and Caleb must decide whether they’re willing to take that risk, even when they can’t be sure how things will turn out. I love the reminder that healing doesn’t happen overnight and that sometimes moving forward requires a little faith, a little courage, and a willingness to let God lead.

If you enjoy Christian historical romances filled with Western adventure, danger, a growing attraction, and characters who need a second chance at love, this sounds like a book worth picking up. Fans of Karen Witemeyer and Mary Connealy may especially enjoy the mix of romance, suspense, and faith.

For me, the biggest draw is the hope woven into this story. I love being reminded that a painful past doesn’t mean the best days are behind us. God can bring healing where there has been hurt, restore faith when it has been shaken, and lead us toward blessings we never saw coming. Sometimes the hardest step is simply being willing to trust Him with what comes next.

If you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, check out Wounds and Rescues by Kathleen Rouser.

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

About the Author

Kathleen Rouser is a multi-published, award-winning author of historical and contemporary Christian romance. She is a longtime member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a member of Faith, Hope and Love Christian Writers. She resides in southeast Michigan, a location which she often uses in her novels, with her hero and husband of forty-some years and two sweet cats who found a home in their empty nest.

More from Kathleen

Joining an Orphan Home with Foster Care

Rose Sinclair makes a quick appearance in the third Stone Creek Brides novel, Scandals and Mercies as the head nurse at the local unwed mother’s home. With a tender heart and hurts of her own, she desires to help in a different way and moves to a nursing position at the town’s small orphanage. It is a loving sanctuary to around a dozen children and youth waiting for forever families.

During the era of orphan trains, the Child and Family Services of Michigan was established in 1891. They started “receiving homes” which cared for children with the goal of adoption. By 1906, the organization advocated for children to be placed in foster care when they couldn’t remain with their natural families. Thus began the trend toward foster care rather than orphanages.

The care received in the Anna and Jared Barrington Home for Children falls in between the two. In Rumors and Promises, the first Stone Creek Brides novel, readers see a glimpse into Gloria Myles’s life and how she became the guardian for her granddaughter, Elise. From this situation came her passion to care for orphans, as well as her desire to memorialize her daughter and son-in-law.

While most orphanages were often harmful institutions, I’d like to think that there were places like the Anna and Jared Barrington Home for Children, though I may have taken a bit of literary license.

I thought about what might happen if some of the children had the opportunity to be reunited with a faraway relative. How may that have taken place? Enter private investigator Caleb Ellis, who has lost several people he loved. He’s on a mission to bring together the scattered family.

In Wounds and Rescues, Rose becomes deeply attached to orphans Sam and Nellie Tubbs. The childhood trauma she experienced prompts her to become fiercely protective of them. From small-town Michigan of 1903 to the hills of Montana, she embarks on a journey of forgiveness, healing, and facing the past.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 10

Books Less Travelled, October 11

Texas Book-aholic, October 12

lakesidelivingsite, October 13

Simple Harvest Reads, October 13 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

For Him and My Family, October 14

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 15

Betti Mace, October 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 17

Devoted To Hope, October 18

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 19

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 20

Artistic Nobody, October 21 (Guest Review from Donna)

Holly’s Book Corner, October 22

Pause for Tales, October 22

Cover Lover Book Review, October 23

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen 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/WuCup/wounds-and-rescues-celebration-tour-giveaway

Dockside Secrets ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Dockside Secrets

Author: Terry Overton

Genre: Christian Cozy Mystery

Release Date: October 17, 2025

When Finley Burke moves to the peaceful lakeside village of Sunset Cove, she’s looking for a fresh start-not a mystery. But when a violent storm washes a strange tackle box onto her dock, she discovers more than fishing lures inside. Hidden within are antique jewels and secrets that link to a long-buried family feud and a suspicious death. As Finley digs deeper, she finds herself tangled in a web of

lies that threaten the calm of the cove- and her own safety.

With the help of her quirky but loyal neighbors, a sharp-eyed detective, Finley must uncover the truth before the past catches up to her.

Full of Southern charm, close-knit friendships, and suspense that keeps you turning the pages. Dockside Secrets is a heartwarming cozy mystery that proves it’s never too late to start over or to solve a mystery.

Click here to get your copy!

If you enjoy Christian Cozy Mysteries, I recommend checking out Dockside Secrets by Terry Overton

Sometimes a fresh start is exactly what we need, but life doesn’t always unfold the way we expect. For Finley Burke, moving to the peaceful lakeside village of Sunset Cove is supposed to be an opportunity to begin again. Instead, one violent storm brings a mysterious discovery that turns her quiet new life upside down!

In Dockside Secrets, Finley finds a strange tackle box washed up on her dock after the storm. What she discovers inside is far more than fishing lures. Hidden among them are antique jewels and clues connected to a long-buried family feud and a suspicious death. Suddenly, Finley finds herself caught up in a mystery filled with lies, unanswered questions, and secrets someone desperately wants to keep buried. The deeper she digs, the more dangerous things become.

Thankfully, Finley doesn’t have to navigate this mystery entirely on her own. With the help of her quirky but loyal neighbors and a sharp-eyed detective, she begins piecing together the truth. But will she uncover the answers before the past catches up with her?

One thing that appeals to me about this story is Finley’s desire for a fresh start. I think many of us can relate to wanting to leave certain things behind and move forward into a new season of life. Sometimes those new beginnings come with unexpected challenges, and we have to find the courage to face them one step at a time. From a Christian perspective, I find comfort in remembering that we don’t have to know what lies ahead to trust God with the journey. Even when our plans take an unexpected turn, He can guide us through the uncertainty and give us the wisdom and strength we need for whatever comes next.

I’m also intrigued by the themes of truth, honesty, and the consequences of keeping secrets. As Finley works to uncover what really happened, the story offers an opportunity to reflect on how the truth often comes to light, even when people try to bury it. Scripture reminds us in Luke 8:17 that what is hidden will eventually be brought to light. While uncovering the truth isn’t always easy or comfortable, honesty and integrity matter, especially when the choices we make affect other people.

The close-knit community of Sunset Cove also sounds like a wonderful part of this story. I enjoy reading about neighbors who stand by one another when life gets difficult. That kind of loyalty and friendship reflects something I deeply value in the Christian life: the importance of encouraging one another, offering a helping hand, and being willing to walk alongside someone through a challenging season. We aren’t meant to face every difficulty alone, and having people who care enough to show up can make all the difference.

Of course, the combination of Southern charm, antique jewels, family secrets, and a suspicious death promises plenty of mystery and suspense! I can easily see how Finley’s discovery could keep readers turning pages as they try to figure out how everything connects. Sunset Cove may look like a peaceful place, but it seems there is much more beneath the surface than anyone realizes.

Dockside Secrets sounds like an appealing choice for readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with intriguing clues, memorable community connections, and a suspenseful plot. I especially appreciate the themes of new beginnings, courage, friendship, and the importance of seeking the truth. These are reminders that resonate beyond the pages of a mystery.

Sometimes a fresh start doesn’t mean life suddenly becomes easy. Sometimes it means finding the courage to face what comes, choosing honesty when the truth is difficult, and trusting God to guide us through the unknown. Finley’s unexpected adventure in Sunset Cove looks like a reminder that even when life doesn’t go according to plan, there can still be hope, meaningful connections, and opportunities to begin again.

So if you enjoy Christian Cozy mysteries, check out Dockside Secrets by Terry Overton.

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

About the Author

Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology.

Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean.

She has two children, seven grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.

Her previous writing and publication experiences include textbook and journal articles in the fields of special education and school psychology. She now seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals.

Over the years, Terry’s books have won the Mom’s Choice Award, Christian Indie Award, Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Winner Awards, Bookfest Winner Awards, Pencraft Award, Reader Views Silver Reviewers Award, and International Book Award Finalist. Her writing examines real world events with a Christian worldview. She enjoys writing for young children, middle grade readers, YA fiction, and adult level novels.

More from Terry

I must admit I have probably watched and read just about every Hallmark cozy mystery I have come across! I have become addicted to mysteries lately! I don’t limit it to just the cozy mysteries. Lately, I have been watching plenty of true crime. The attraction for me is the puzzle. I mean, really, who can resist a “whodunit?” I prefer more of the gumshoe approach, but I also watch several crime scene investigations.

It started out with a curiosity about why people do such actions. What motivates people to commit these crimes and then try to cover them up? In many cases, criminals just aren’t that bright. But there are some cases that remain puzzling.

I decided to give it a go. Dockside Secrets is my first cozy. It was fun to write this mystery in the little community outside of a big city. We moved to this new little cove on a lake, Sunset Cove, and this is where the characters live. The large city in the book, Sagebrush Bend, is in reality, Fort Worth, Texas. Plenty of changing landscapes here, and these appear in the story.

Grab this cozy and meet the quirky cast of characters: a retired forensic psychologist, a very proper southern lady, a nutty and loud best friend, and a middle-of-the-road peacekeeper join a fumbling local sheriff and a handsome detective to discover what really happened at Sunset Cove.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 7

Holly’s Book Corner, October 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 8

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 9

Texas Book-aholic, October 10

Lights in a Dark World, October 10

For Him and My Family, October 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 12

She Lives to Read, October 13

Sylvan Musings, October 13

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 14

The Avid Reader, October 14

Fruitfully Planted, October 15

Vicky Sluiter, October 16

Avid Reader Nurse, October 17

Book Looks by Lisa, October 18

Simple Harvest Reads, October 19 (Guest Review from Donna)

Mary Hake, October 19

Leslie’s Library Escape, October 20

Lily’s Corner, October 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Terry 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/55lW2/dockside-secrets-celebration-tour-giveaway

Belle’s Christmas Carol ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Belle’s Christmas Carol

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Inspirational Historical Romance

Release Date: September 1, 2026

While all of London waits for snow, an orphanage in need holds holiday cheer, sparks of love, and secrets waiting to be discovered.

When Ebeneezer Scrooge’s former fiancée, Belle Beaumont, unexpectedly inherits a struggling London orphanage, she dreams of giving the children of Haven House the most splendid Christmas they’ve ever known. But her vision of snowflakes and merriment quickly collides with reality: Fire damage has rendered part of the building unsafe, and the paperwork is years behind.

Barrister Rafe Munro is fighting to clear an innocent man and searching for a child, who may be his relative. His pursuit leads him to Haven House, where Rafe offers to help Belle sort through the chaotic records that might lead to the missing child. Amid the mayhem of running an orphanage full of mischievous children and eccentric staff, will Belle and Rafe find love and the answers they seek this holiday season?

With characters from Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, this festive historical romance Christmas novella of family and second chances from Michelle Griep is set in Victorian England and perfect for fans of Julie Klassen and Mimi Matthews.

Click here to get your copy!

Belle’s Christmas Carol by Michelle Griep is an Inspirational Historical Romance.

There’s something special about a Christmas story that brings together a little romance, a touch of mystery, and the hope of a fresh start. Michelle Griep’s festive historical romance novella, set in Victorian England, offers all that and more, with a few familiar faces from Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol thrown into the mix.

Belle Beaumont, Ebenezer Scrooge’s former fiancée, finds herself unexpectedly inheriting a struggling London orphanage called Haven House. Determined to give the children a Christmas they’ll never forget, Belle dreams of snowflakes, merriment, and holiday magic. Unfortunately, the reality of running an orphanage is far less charming than she imagined. Fire damage has left part of the building unsafe, the records are hopelessly behind, and there’s no shortage of chaos from the mischievous children and eccentric staff.

Enter Rafe Munro, a barrister who has his own problems to solve. While working to clear an innocent man and searching for a child who may be related to him, Rafe finds himself at Haven House. When he offers to help Belle untangle the orphanage’s disorganized records, the two begin working together to uncover answers that could change their lives.

I love the idea of revisiting a familiar character like Belle and imagining what her life might look like after her relationship with Scrooge. Rather than leaving her defined by the past, this story allows her to build something meaningful and make a difference in the lives of children who desperately need love and security. Her determination to give them a memorable Christmas, even when circumstances seem set against her, adds a heartwarming element to the story.

The combination of an orphanage in need, a missing child, and a man seeking justice lends the romance more depth than a simple holiday love story. Belle and Rafe each have their own burdens and unanswered questions, and their growing connection offers the possibility of healing, belonging, and a second chance at happiness.

I also enjoyed the promise of the Victorian London setting, especially with Christmas approaching and everyone waiting for snow. There’s something wonderfully inviting about a historical Christmas tale filled with imperfect people, unexpected discoveries, and the hope that even difficult circumstances can lead to something beautiful.

Michelle Griep brings together romance, mystery, and holiday cheer in a story that explores the importance of family—not just the family we’re born into, but also the people we welcome into our lives. Sometimes, the greatest gifts aren’t wrapped beneath a Christmas tree; they’re found in the love we give, the lives we touch, and the courage to embrace a new beginning.

If you enjoy Christian historical romance, Christmas novellas, and stories about love, family, and second chances, this sounds like a delightful addition to your holiday reading list. Fans of Julie Klassen and Mimi Matthews may especially enjoy the Victorian setting and romantic atmosphere.

A struggling orphanage, a determined heroine, a barrister with a mystery to solve, and the possibility of love make Haven House a promising place to spend a little time this Christmas season!

So if you enjoy inspirational historical romances, check out Belle’s Christmas Carol by Michelle Griep.

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

About the Author

Michelle Griep is an award-winning author known for her captivating historical romances. With a keen eye for detail, she pens tales that transport readers to the past where they’ll experience romance, adventure, and unforgettable characters. When she’s not writing, you can find her in her garden scaring away armadillos.

More from Michelle

Why I Gave Scrooge’s Belle Her Own Christmas Carol

Guest post by Michelle Griep

I’ve always been suspicious of characters who appear just long enough to break your heart and then vanish without so much as a forwarding address. Belle from A Christmas Carol is one of those.

Scrooge, of course, gets the full treatment. Ghosts. Doom. Moral terror. A dramatic overnight transformation. Turkey delivery. The works. And yes, yes, it’s all very moving. But Belle? Come on. All she gets is one aching goodbye and then is shoved neatly into Scrooge’s past. So, excuse me, Mr. Dickens, but I have questions.

What became of the woman who loved Ebenezer before greed got to him? Did she regret walking away? Did Christmas ever sting? Did she build a fine, sensible life or did some little corner of her heart still ache for him or not? That wondering became Belle’s Christmas Carol.

In my story, Belle Beaumont unexpectedly inherits Haven House, a struggling London orphanage with fire damage, muddled ledgers, eccentric staff, and children who are more than rambunctious. Naturally, Belle decides she will set everything to rights and give the children the most splendid Christmas imaginable because—like me—apparently the woman has never heard of pacing herself.

Then along comes Rafe Munro, a handsome barrister searching for a missing child, and Belle’s tidy plans start to change. Oh, did I mention he’s single? That’s because I wanted Belle to be more than Scrooge’s lost love. I wanted her to have grit, flaws, hope, purpose, and a future all her own.

Because sometimes the story doesn’t end with goodbye. Sometimes that’s where the real story begins.

Blog Stops

Where Faith and Books Meet, October 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 6

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , October 7

The Avid Reader, October 7

She Lives To Read, October 7

Texas Book-aholic, October 8

Devoted To Hope, October 8

Betti Mace, October 9

Inkwell Inspirations , October 9

The Lofty Pages, October 9

For Him and My Family, October 10

Romances of the Cross, October 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 11

Jeanette’s Thoughts , October 11

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 12

The Vine and The Branch, October 12

Maureen’s Musings, October 13

Fruitfully Planted, October 13

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 13

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 14

Mornings at Character Cafe, October 14

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 15

Simple Harvest Reads, October 15 (Guest Review from Donna)

Cover Lover Book Review, October 16

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, October 16

Vicky Sluiter, October 16

Devoted Steps, October 17

Lily’s Corner, October 17

Holly’s Book Corner, October 18

Mary Hake, October 18

Blossoms and Blessings, October 19

Pause for Tales, October 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away the grand prize of a $25 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/KNJXt/belles-christmas-carol-celebration-tour-giveaway

Murder, Plainly Written ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Murder, Plainly Written

Author: Mindy Steele

Genre: Christian Amish Mystery

Release Date: September, 2026

She just wanted to fit into Amish Country. . .now she’s standing out!

First novel in The Plain Order Ink Society series, in which Amish writers crack the case of local mysteries.

Sadie Lynch thought inheriting her late Amish aunt’s candle shop was a blessing—a chance to leave her stalled writing career behind and find a fresh start. But running a Plain business when she’s not Amish isn’t exactly filling her store with customers—especially when the local minister insists she sell out.

Sadie, who doesn’t want to leave, thankfully meets Wanda—an Amish woman with a secret obsession. As Wanda continues to visit the candle shop, an unexpected partnership blooms when Wanda agrees to help Sadie’s shop in exchange for writing advice.

But the grand reopening of the candle shop takes a deadly turn when the body of the Amish minister is discovered behind the counter. Now Sadie is the only suspect, prompting Wanda and the Plain Order Ink Society to try helping her solve the mystery.

But in this Plain community, secrets burn brighter than flames—and nothing is as simple as it seems.

Click here to get your copy!

If you enjoy Christian Amish mysteries, you need to read Murder, Plainly Written by Mindy Steele

really enjoyed the cozy-mystery feel of this story, especially the unexpected friendship at its heart. Sadie Lynch arrives in Amish Country hoping that inheriting her aunt’s candle shop will give her a fresh start. Still, instead of quietly fitting into the community, she quickly finds herself standing out—and not always in the best way.

Sadie’s struggle to make the candle shop work immediately made me want to root for her. She isn’t Amish; she’s trying to find her place in a community with very different expectations, and just when she thinks things might finally be turning around, the Amish minister is found dead behind her counter. Suddenly, her fresh start has turned into a murder investigation, and Sadie is the prime suspect.

What I especially enjoyed was Sadie’s relationship with Wanda. Their friendship begins in such an unexpected way, with Wanda visiting the candle shop because of her secret interest in writing. Sadie needs help with the shop, Wanda wants writing advice, and somehow the two discover that they make a pretty great team. I loved watching that friendship develop, and it added warmth to the mystery, keeping the story from being all about the murder.

Of course, the Plain community has plenty of secrets of its own, and Sadie and Wanda quickly discover that figuring out who killed the minister isn’t going to be easy. There are plenty of questions, suspicious circumstances, and people who may not be quite as innocent as they appear. I enjoyed trying to piece together the clues alongside them.

This was a fun introduction to The Plain Order Ink Society series, and I liked the unique premise of Amish writers coming together to solve local mysteries. The candle shop setting also added a cozy touch that fit perfectly with the Amish-country atmosphere.

If you enjoy Amish fiction with a mystery woven into it, quirky friendships, small-town secrets, and a cozy setting, this is a series worth checking out. I’m definitely curious to see what mysteries Sadie, Wanda, and the Plain Order Ink Society get themselves into next.

So if you enjoy Christian Amish mysteries, check out Murder, Plainly Written by Mindy Steele.

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

About the Author

Mindy Steele was raised in Kentucky timber country and has been writing since she could hold a crayon against the wall. Steele writes Amish Romance peppered with just the right amount of humor, as well as engaging Suspense, using rural America and the residents as her muse. Steele strives to create realistic characters for her readers and believes in engaging all the senses to make you laugh, cry, hold your breath, and root for the happy ever after ending. A hopeless romantic, with a lyrical pen, Steele wants her readers to find themselves somewhere within her pages. A mother of four and grandmother to a half dozen blessings, Steele enjoys hiking and gardening, coffee indulgences and weekend road trips, and is personally doing all she can to make peanut butter its very own food group.

More from Mindy

Murder, Plainly Written

The Story Behind the Story

Stories often begin in the most unexpected ways, and this one started with a group of remarkable new friends.

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to meet a number of Amish authors from different communities. Among them were Old Order Amish writers, a New Order Amish woman, and a Danner Amish author from the Dan Amish church. What began as introductions soon blossomed into friendships that I treasure deeply.

Before long, I was invited to attend one of their monthly gatherings. Sitting among these talented storytellers, listening to their experiences, laughter, and unique perspectives on life, I found myself inspired not only by their writing but by their personalities. Since then, I have remained in contact with many of them, and our friendship continues to be a blessing.

When I was asked to write a cozy mystery series, my thoughts immediately turned to those wonderful authors. Their distinct voices, humor, wisdom, and observations about life seemed perfectly suited for solving mysteries. As we talked, they enthusiastically embraced the idea and even helped by creating character names for the series.

I could not resist imagining how each of them might approach a mystery. Who would follow the clues? Who would rely on intuition? Who would ask the questions no one else thought to ask? Those playful questions became the foundation for this series.

Murder, Plainly Written is the first book in that journey. While the story itself is entirely fictional, many of the characters were inspired by real people, and many of the settings were drawn from real places and experiences. It has been a joy to blend mystery, friendship, and a touch of Amish life into a story that celebrates the people who inspired it.

I hope as you read you get to know the characters and perhaps solve a mystery or two along the way.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure.

—Mindy Steele

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 30

The Avid Reader, September 30

Simple Harvest Reads, October 1 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 2

Texas Book-aholic, October 3

Artistic Nobody, October 4 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, October 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 6

Guild Master, October 7 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 8

Avid Reader Nurse, October 9

Mary Hake, October 9

Fiction Book Lover, October 10 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, October 11

The Bookish Ledger, October 12 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Corner, October 13

Giveaway

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

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

https://gleam.io/q9rfA/murder-plainly-written-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Ballerina’s Bargain ~ A Review & Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Ballerina’s Bargain

Author: Lorri Dudley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 8, 2026

A burdened earl. A determined ballerina. Saving the theatre was part of their bargain. Losing their hearts wasn’t.

London, 1815

Emmeline Laurent has survived by grace and grit. After her parents’ execution in France, she has learned to live unseen as a humble ballerina instructing young pupils in a small London theatre. When whispers spread that the Danforth Theatre may be sold to an unscrupulous buyer, Emmeline fears not only for her livelihood but for the safety of her impressionable students. With no time and no options, she does the only thing she knows to do: leap into a moving carriage and bargain with the new lord who holds their fate.

Grant Atherton, the Earl of Quincy, has inherited the crushing weight of duty along with a failing theatre, an arranged engagement, two younger sisters to usher into society, and a mountain of his father’s secrets. Selling the Danforth is the only way to save his family from ruin. The last thing he needs is a beautiful, infuriatingly determined ballerina turning his careful plans upside down.

But when Emmeline’s hidden past begins surfacing and the danger circling the theatre proves far deadlier than either of them realized, Grant must choose between the life he planned and the one God may have been preparing all along.

For fans of Roseanna M. White and Jen Turano — a sweeping Regency romance about the grace found in surrender, the courage it takes to trust, and the God who makes a way when every door seems closed.

Click here to get your copy!

If you enjoy Christian historical romances, you need to check out The Ballerina’s Bargain by Lorri Dudley.

Some stories entertain you, and some stories quietly work their way into your heart. This one did a little of both for me.

I was drawn to Emmeline Laurent almost immediately. After losing her parents in France, she has every reason to live cautiously, yet she refuses to let fear keep her from protecting the children she teaches or the theatre that has become their home. I loved her determination. She isn’t fearless—she refuses to let fear make her decisions. Watching her step forward despite having so little control over what was happening around her made her a character I couldn’t help but root for.

Then there is Grant Atherton, the Earl of Quincy, who is carrying more than anyone should have to carry alone. A failing theatre, family responsibilities, an arranged engagement, two younger sisters, and secrets left behind by his father have convinced him that selling the theatre is the only responsible choice. He has his plans, Emmeline has hers, and neither expects their lives—or their hearts—to be turned upside down.

I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. There is plenty of tension between them, but beneath that is something deeper: two people discovering that sometimes the life we carefully plan isn’t the life God has planned for us.

That theme really resonated with me.

How often do we look at a situation and think we know exactly what needs to happen? We see a door closing and assume we’ve reached the end, when God may be opening a path we can’t see yet. Emmeline and Grant both have to learn that surrender isn’t giving up. It’s releasing the need to control the outcome and believing that God sees the bigger picture.

I appreciated that faith wasn’t simply a background element in this story. It became part of the characters’ journeys, especially as circumstances forced them to confront what they feared, what they wanted, and what they were willing to place in God’s hands. That message felt especially meaningful because life rarely unfolds as neatly as we imagine it will.

And plenty is happening beyond the romance. Emmeline’s hidden past begins to surface, danger threatens the theatre, and the secrets surrounding Grant’s family add another layer of suspense. I enjoyed how these elements kept the story moving while also pushing the characters to face things they had tried to leave behind.

But what stayed with me most was the reminder that God’s way forward isn’t always obvious. Sometimes what looks like a closed door is simply an invitation to stop relying on our own plans and follow Him somewhere unexpected.

Emmeline and Grant’s story is filled with courage, secrets, danger, romance, and heart. More than that, it offers a beautiful reminder that God can make a way when we can’t see one—and that what He has prepared may be far different, and far better, than what we thought we needed.

If you enjoy Christian historical romance with strong characters, emotional depth, a touch of suspense, and a faith message that feels naturally woven into the story, this is one I’d definitely recommend.

So if you enjoy Christian historical romances, check out The Ballerina’s Bargain by Lorri Dudley.

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

About the Author

Lorri Dudley has been a finalist in numerous writing contests and has a master’s degree in Psychology. She lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household.

More from Lorri

Many young girls dream of growing up to become a ballerina. There is a romantic whimsy to the airy skirts, graceful movements, and illusion of defying gravity as dancers balance en pointe and extend their limbs with such elegance that they seem almost infinite. While modern audiences often associate ballet with beauty and enchantment, behind the heavy stage curtains of Regency England’s opera-ballet lurked a darker reality.

Many of the ballerinas came from impoverished families struggling to put food on the table. Girls trained from a young age, long before the onset of womanhood, and were expected to endure grueling hours of rehearsal despite blisters, sore muscles, and bleeding feet. For some, ballet offered a better alternative for a working girl than scrubbing floors and emptying chamberpots as a scullery maid, laboring as a laundress near scalding water and hot presses or cleaning dangerous cotton machinery in a mill.

At least the stage held the possibility of applause—if the performance was well received. If it wasn’t, audiences could be merciless. Performers might be shouted down, heckled off the stage, or pelted with food. Fights occasionally erupted among patrons in the pit or upper gallery, while disreputable men gathered in the front row of what was known as Fops’ Alley in hopes of catching a scandalous glimpse of the ballerinas’ ankles.

Their wealthy counterparts could become a ballerina’s sponsor, gaining special access to backstage rooms where they could ogle the dancers and receive in-person introductions after a performance. These men were known as protectors, though the title was a misnomer. In exchange for a ballerina’s exclusive attention, they offered gifts the young women could scarcely afford themselves, like new ballet slippers, ribbons, bracelets, or other trinkets.

While saving the theatre and its ballerinas from these so-called “protectors” forms the premise of The Ballerina’s Bargain, the novel doesn’t dwell on the darker details of these backstage arrangements. Instead, it focuses on the heroic efforts of its protagonists to spare the young ballerinas from a wretched fate. However, the tension of what may happen should they fail lingers in the wings throughout the story.

Enjoy!

Blog Stops

Devoted Steps, September 19

The Lofty Pages, September 20

Books Less Travelled, September 20

Devoted To Hope, September 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 21

She Lives To Read, September 22

Texas Book-aholic, September 23

Melissa’s Bookshelf, September 23

Fruitfully Planted, September 24

For Him and My Family, September 24

Sydney Schmied Books, September 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 25

Connie’s History Classroom, September 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 26

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

Sylvan Musings, September 28

Leslie’s Library Escape, September 29

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, September 30

Cover Lover Book Review, September 30

Holly’s Book Corner, October 1

Pause for Tales, October 2

To Everything There Is A Season, October 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lorri 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/aa58y/the-ballerinas-bargain-celebration-tour-giveaway