Review and Giveaway: A Summer to Treasure by: Leslea Wahl

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Summer to Treasure by Leslea Wahl, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Summer to Treasure
Author: Leslea Wahl
Publisher: Perpetual Light Publishing
Release Date: May 27, 2025
Genre: MG/YA Adventure Mystery

Teenage siblings Luke, Celia, and Austin are dreading their summer vacation. A month cooped up in an RV, touring around the Southwest, with their parents, grandmother, and each other? Pure torture. 

But when Grandma reveals the real reason for the trip, the journey becomes an unexpected adventure. As they travel through breathtaking canyons, the teens develop new friendships, deepen their faith, and join together to solve a decades-old mystery. 

And if the siblings can put down their phones long enough to enjoy the incredible journey, they might just discover that their relationships with each other are truly the greatest treasure.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

Also Available

   

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About the Author

Leslea Wahl is an award-winning author of adventurous teen mysteries. She not only writes for teens but is an avid reviewer of Christian fiction and a founding member of Catholic Teen Books. Her journey to become an author came through a search for value-based fiction for her own children. Leslea now strives to be an advocate for other families battling against society’s secular messages through her faith-based writing and reviews.

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

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Review

A Summer to Treasure is the first book I have read by Leslea Wahl, and I have already started another book by her. This is such a perfect summer adventure story. It reminded me of my family vacations as a child. Though this is geared towards YA, it can be enjoyed by all ages. It is such a fun multi-generational story.

The character development was great. Luke is caught up in himself being popular and the football star. He has not had time for his siblings or even tried to understand them. As the trip progresses, they all strike up the bond that the sibling crew used to have. Ceila is struggling with the loss of friendship in high school as her two friends go down other paths. She chooses not to turn to partying and tries to blend into the background. Which is causing her sadness to be ignored. This trip brings her out of her shell, and she can connect with her brothers and ask them for help. Austin keeps being left out or told he is too young, so he has resulted to just playing video games, as his siblings don’t seem to want to spend time with him. While trying to find the treasure, and when an accident happens, Austin is able to use something he learned while gaming to help Luke. When they learn to open up and tell each other what is really going on, that’s when they are able to grow and move forward. The family dynamic in this story is encouraging and heartwarming.

The setting and storyline are great. I loved being with the family as they ventured around in the RV as a family, grandma included. I enjoyed that the whole reason they are going on this trip is because Grandma requested it. The kids are not excited at first, but as the trip progresses and Grandma lets them in on her treasure, the kids are excited to go on the hunt. They do find themselves in trouble, but at the end of the trip, the siblings are closer than ever.

There is a small summer romance between Celia and Blake-a trail guide. There is one kiss to the cheek, so nothing over the top, perfect level for YA.

Leslea Wahl did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book. It was encouraging to see how the character's faith was an integral aspect of their life. Though written with a strong catholic aspect, it can be enjoyed by all. It does dive into some of the differences in praying to vs. asking the saints to pray alongside, which helps give insight to fellow Christians.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each receive a signed copy of A Summer to Treasure, a book-themed Glass Tumbler with Lid and Straw, and a magnetic bookmark!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 27, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 3, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

Meet Me on Lilac Lane by Andrea Christenson

Meet Me on Lilac Lane is the second book I have read written by Andrea Christenson and it did not disappoint. This is the second book in this multi-author series, and it is the perfect mix of Hallmark and Christian. I am so excited to read the rest of the books in this series. I have become one of Jonathon Island’s residents.

The character development is great. I love getting to know Mia and seeing her process through the grief of losing her husband, feeling responsible for it, handling life as a single mom with two little kids, and facing losing her house and home on the island. Cody was fun getting to know. Seeing him also process the grief of losing a friend, feeling responsible for his death, survivor’s guilt, and processing how to talk to his father. He is also trying to sort out his feelings for Mia and if he should pursue her. I loved watching them both process the loss of Troy from different perspectives.

The setting and storyline were perfect. I loved the small-town island feel. Watching Mia try to help find the businesses for Main Street is such a fun process. While also running into a college friend, who was hoping for more. It was fun seeing Mia interact with him. Mia takes on this project to try to save her house from foreclosure after the fire at the Grand Hotel affects tourism on the island. My favorite scene was when Mia and Cody got stuck in the room between the two shops when the glass doorknob came off.

The friends-to-more romance between Mia and Cody is a sweet and low-spice, kisses-only romance.

Andrea Christenson did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

No Place Like Home by Betsy St. Amant

No Place Like Home is the second book, I have read written by Betsy St. Amant and it was such a pleasure. This is part of a series, though it can be read as a stand-alone, I would suggest reading the whole series because once you meet the characters you feel like a Magnolia Bay resident.

The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know Cade and seeing him work through learning to take charge of what he wants to do in life, not just what he thinks he’s expected to do as a Landry. I loved pulling back the layers on Rosalyn and seeing some of her struggles, as she seeks approval from others.

The setting and storyline were great. I loved coming back to Magnolia Bay and getting to see some of the same characters. I loved the aerialist aspect. It was such a fun thing to envision. The whole Cajun circus was a fun idea. I was rooting for Cade to pull it all off. Of course, what story would be complete without some conflict? We have issues with the porta potty’s, food poisoning, fake marriages, and mafia. It kept me on my toes, and I enjoyed every minute of it.

The second chance romance between Cade and Rosalyn was perfect and sweet, just a low-spice kisses-only romance.

Betsy St. Amant did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Hearts Aweigh by Shannon Sue Dunlap

Hearts Aweigh is the second book I have read written by Shannon Sue Dunlap and she has become an instant read for me. I know I can expect a witty, faith-filled romance from her. I hope there is a third Shipper’s novel because I am not ready to say goodbye to this crew. This is the second book in the series, and it could be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend reading the first one, you will not be disappointed.

The character development is great. I love the Shippers, and getting to know more of Daisy’s back story was great and gave her a better dynamic. Abby has such a bright personality that shines through. I loved getting to know her. Spencer was fun to pull back the layers on and see what made his broody attitude and the secrets behind the Masterson family.

The storyline and setting are so fun. I love the cruise ship setting. The storyline is fun. While we have the Shipper’s scheming and matchmaking, we also have some underlying crime going on, which this time was blackmail. Lo and behold, it is affecting the Shippers personally. With some other underlying things going on.

The relationship between Spencer and Abby is an opposites attract/ employer-‘nanny’ trope. It is a low-spice, kisses-only romance. I loved the shipper’s matchmaking skills and the different dates that Abby goes on to try and land the right man for her.

Shannon Sue Dunlap does an amazing job intertwining faith throughout the novel.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

To Kiss a Knight by Grace Hitchcock

To Kiss a Knight is the third book I have read written by Grace Hitchcock, and she has now become an instant read for me. This book was so hilarious and well-written, it was such a pleasure to read. The book sucked me in from the start and now that it is over, I’m a little sad to say goodbye. This will be a re-read for sure. 

The character development was great. I loved watching Vivienne writing and trying to find herself out of different predicaments and seeing Sir Sebastian sweep in to save her. Watching Vivienne deal with anxiety and the way her stepbrother is treating her is heartbreaking. Very evident of the times. Sebastian was an interesting character with lots of layers. We meet him as the highwayman robbing a stagecoach, to later find out he was sent to do that on an assignment. Sebastian is a very caring, God-fearing man. We find out he is very loyal to the Prince Regent. 

The setting and plot were great. I loved being in the Regency era, Attending Balls and fencing matches. I enjoyed the marriage of convenience trope with the meddling grandmother. It made for some great humor. However, when the cousin swoops in from nowhere to steal the inheritance and sends grandmother to the asylum, I was not happy. In the end, everything works out. 

The romance aspect was low spice and perfect, just the way I like it. There were a few passionate kisses, but nothing over the top. 

Grace Hitchcock did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book. 

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Review and Giveaway: Every Life Filled with Purpose by: Shelia Stovall

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Every Life Filled with Purpose by Shelia Stovall, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Every Life Filled with Purpose
Series: The Weldon Novels #3
Author: Shelia Stovall
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Genre: Contemporary Women's Christian Fiction

Welcome to Weldon, Kentucky, where no one can keep a secret forever. 

 Imagine discovering a place where the locals treat you with warmth and welcome you like family. Carson Williams finds such a place when he visits his deceased mother’s hometown of Weldon. The atmosphere in the community creates a deep yearning in Carson, and he thinks Kentucky is the perfect place for a new beginning. Carson hopes the country life will lead to his emotional healing from PTSD. 

While Carson is having lunch at the local diner with Sparky Compton, a young doctor who’s captured his heart, Virginia Willoughby collapses. Sparky springs into action, but Carson struggles to maintain control of his emotions. Mrs. Willoughby’s daughter, Emma Baker arrives, and the magnetic pull of Emma’s gaze confuses Carson. She reminds him of someone, but who? Later, Emma wonders why she can’t stop thinking about the mysterious stranger when her heart belongs to pastor Luke Davis. 

But there are secrets in the small town—and they will impact both Carson and Emma.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

More In This Series

 

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About the Author

Shelia Stovall is an author, speaker, and the Director of a small-town library in southern Kentucky. Her first Weldon novel, Every Window Filled with Light, won the 2022 Angel Book Award in the contemporary women's fiction category and was a double finalist for a Selah award in 2022, and her second Weldon novel, Every Day Filled with Hope, was a finalist for a Selah award and a Carol award in 2023.

It tickles her to see shocked expressions when folks learn she's traveling to Africa—again. She's the worst missionary ever, but God continues to send her to the ends of the earth as He attempts to mold her into something useful. 

Shelia is a country girl who relishes eating a bologna sandwich at a country store just as much as savoring an elegant meal in a posh restaurant. 

Shelia and her husband, Michael, live on a farm, and she enjoys taking daily rambles to the creek with their four dogs. Spending time with family, especially her grandchildren, is her all-time favorite thing. The only hobby Shelia loves more than reading uplifting stories of hope is writing them.

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

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Review

Every Life Filled with Purpose is the first book I have read written by Shelia Stovall, and it was very enjoyable. This is book three of a series, though I read it as a standalone. I plan on going back and reading the other two books in the series, because I want to revisit the town of Weldon and get more of the backstory.

The character development was good. There are a lot of characters throughout the story. So, at the beginning, it took a moment to wrap my brain around everyone. Emma is processing through a lot of different things. Her husband was murdered, and she is now the mom to her adopted daughter, Harley, who is also processing trauma. Carson shows up on the scene and has different things he is dealing with.

The storyline and setting were perfect. Weldon is a cute, small-town Kentucky community with southern charm. I enjoyed trying to figure out the different connections in the town. This was a perfect Christian hallmark in a book.

The relationship between Emma and Luke is a very sweet, low-spice, kiss-only romance.

Shelia Stovall did a great job intertwining faith throughout the entire book. I enjoyed seeing the faith of the characters through their prayers and lives.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 20, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 27, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

Review and Giveaway: Bleeding Heart Librarian by: Jackie Layton

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Bleeding Heart Librarian by Jackie Layton, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Bleeding Heart Librarian
Series: A Texas Flower Farmer Cozy Mystery #3
Author: Jackie Layton
Publisher: Level Best Books
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Genre: Cozy Mystery

Emma Justice is friends with the local librarian and brings her extra flowers once a week. On a hot July morning, when people are gathered outside the closed library past opening time, Emma calls the police. The librarian’s body is found in the building and beside the body is a pink and white bleeding heart plant. 

Tess Carranza was a lovely person dedicated to children and patrons of the library in Lutz, Texas. Tess recently confided to Emma about her fear someone was using the library to gather information to commit crimes. Emma didn’t get the entire story from Tess before her death, but now she’s determined to stop the crime and catch Tess’s killer.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

More In This Series

 

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About the Author

Jackie Layton is the author of cozy mysteries with Spunky Southern Sleuths. Her stories are set in Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina. She lives on the coast of South Carolina, where she enjoys walks on the beach and golf cart rides around the marsh. Reading, gardening, and traveling are some of her favorite hobbies. Jackie always keeps a notebook handy to write down ideas for future stories. Many of her ideas come from people watching and watching Dateline and American Greed.

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

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Review

This year was the first time I had really dipped my toes into the world of cozy mysteries, and this book did not disappoint. Bleeding Heart Librarian is the first book I have read written by Jackie Layton, and it did not disappoint. It checked all the boxes on my expectations and hooked me from the start. I look forward to reading some more.

The character development was great. I loved seeing Emma trying to figure out her flower farm dream as a single mom. Also, getting a second chance at love. Jake also has development, trying to navigate his future while pivoting from his dream.

The storyline was the perfect cozy mystery storyline. I appreciated that I did not guess the ending. There was a lot of spider webbing with multiple murders, so trying to figure out if it was a serial killer or someone else was a fun dynamic.

The relationship between Emma and Jake was a sweet, low-spice, kiss-only romance.

The faith element was a little on the light side. There is mention of prayer in a kind of passing manner.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a Texas-and-flower themed prize bundle which includes an ebook of Bleeding Heart Librarian, a $5 Starbucks card, lip balm and holder, a blue and white bag, a fabric coaster, a designer Wet-It swedish cleaning cloth, a journal, a car coaster and an alarm key chain!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 19, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 26, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

Giveaway and Review: Levi's Loyalty by Lynne Lanning

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Levi's Loyalty by Lynne Lanning, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Levi's Loyalty
Series: Mountain Men - Longing Hearts in the Wilderness
Author: Lynne Lanning
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance (Christian)

Levi found out how much void a woman could fill in his heart… 

But the heartache and betrayal wasn’t worth it. 

He was better off alone… wasn’t he? 

Levi enjoys his secluded life on the mountain until his friend convinces him he needs a woman in his life. A wife, when you’ve barely been around people, especially women? If only he could pick one out at the store like a shovel or bag of flour. But Levi falls head over heels—ignoring all the warning signs that something is wrong—until a delay in marrying her reveals her true intentions. 

Now, he’s decided heartache and betrayal aren’t worth it. He’s better off alone. But God has a surprise waiting in the wilderness, softening the devastation he had suffered…in the form of a feisty woman who has claimed his mountain home for her own. 

 PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

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About the Author

Lynne Lanning has such an effortless way of evoking emotion from her readers. Her characters are so realistic that the reader can feel their pain during trials and their joy during triumphs. Reviews state: "...it's as if Mrs. Lanning lived through this herself." "Couldn't put it down..." "A real page turner." Lynne enjoys turning history and her love of God into enjoyable, relatable stories with practical life lessons that can benefit people today. Each story tells of true bonds of love and loyalty, mixed with tough times and decisions, with a twist of humor and sometimes devastation...the same is true in life. With a blend of her own family members and heritage along with lots of fiction, it's hard to tell where reality stops and fantasy begins.

Connect with Lynne by subscribing to her email newsletter updates or following her on Amazon.

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Review

Levi’s Loyalty is the first book I have read written by Lynne Lanning, and it did not disappoint. I was able to listen to the audiobook narrated by Spencer Dillehay, and it was enjoyable to listen to.

The character development was great, I loved getting to know Levi. He went through a lot of heartache being rejected and jilted by his fiancée. Coming back to his home that he never thought he would return to, to find none other than Charlie. Charlie was so fun to get to know. Being brought up by her father, she learned to act like a man instead of life a woman. It was fun seeing her blossom into who God created her to be.

The storyline and setting were great. I loved being up in the mountains for this story. It was fun getting into the mind of a mountain man, seeing what life might have been for someone in that time, trapping and living life simply. Then everything is torn up when the robbers come to the mountain to try and steal everyone’s trappings. It made for a great story.

The romance is low-spice, which was perfect and sweet.

Lynne Lanning did a great job intertwining faith throughout the story.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a gift basket with homemade scented soaps (like you'll find in the story), a print copy of Levi's Loyalty, a print copy of one of Lynne Lanning's 2025 Selah Awards finalist titles (winner's choice between To Trust a Heart or Mail-Order Stonemason), and bookmarks!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 12, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 19, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

The Mother’s Day Tea by Martha Fouts

The Mother’s Day Tea is the third book I have read, written by Martha Fouts, and I look forward to reading more. This was such a great book; it does not have to be read only around Mother’s Day, but it was a joy to read coming up to the celebration of the day. I was able to enjoy the audiobook, read by Lisa Lynn Sandlin, and she did such a great job. I cannot get enough of her audiobooks. Her voice just brings the characters to life and makes it so enjoyable.

The character development was so good. I loved getting to know Brooklyn and seeing her struggle with all that Mother’s Day brings. It was a great reminder that the celebration of mothers can also be a hard day for some. Jonah has his own hurdles he must overcome. As he is working on co-parenting with his ex-wife while she is moving on. Jonah must overcome these obstacles and seek God in the process.

The storyline was great and very hallmark. I loved the meddling aunt, the baker/caterer meets firefighter- single dad, it made for a great story. The pastor’s wife, Maureen, plays matchmaker and asks Brooklyn and Jonah to work on a silent auction for the Mother’s Day Tea at church. Oh course, nothing is that simple.

The relationship between Brooklyn and Jonah was a sweet, low-spice romance. I loved watching them fall in love and seeing them both open up their hearts and pasts.

Martha Fouts did a fantastic job intertwining faith throughout the book. I was encouraged.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

The Mother’s Day Letter by Martha Fouts

The Mother’s Day Letter is the second book I have read, written by Martha Fouts, and she has become an instant read for me. This is a novella, so it is a shorter book, but don’t skip it and miss out on this sweet story. I enjoyed the audiobook read by Lisa Lynn Sandlin, and she did such a great job. She made the characters come to life, even singing parts in the book. Here is your fair warning: once you start it, you will not be able to put it down.

The character development is good. Natalie is dealing with a lot of different things in her personal life. Seeing her work through her past, to be able to move forward.

The storyline was great. Natalie is trying to navigate the first Mother’s Day after her aunt Wanda died, who was like her mother to her. Her aunt left her with a letter with things to do. I love the whole concept. Watching Natalie try to fulfill her aunt’s letter while being a party planner. She finds herself in trouble in different situations.

The relationship between Natalie and Shawn is a second chance, it is a very low spice.

Martha Fouts did a fantastic job intertwining faith throughout the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

The Shop Down the Lane by Leslie Gould

The Shop Down the Lane is the first book I have read written by Leslie Gould, and it was such a joy. The nod to You’ve Got Mail and the bird watching elements was a fun dynamic. I could not put this book down.

The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know Lois and learn more about her community. It was interesting looking at her struggles of being from a smaller family, having lost both parents, so she is battling figuring out living on her own in the Amish community. Moses was an interesting character. It took a little bit to figure him out, and I’m not sure I really understood him totally. He was Amish and chose to become Mennonite. He is taking care of his mom; she is in an assisted living facility, but he is trying to bring her back home. Which would take a lot out of anybody. Dealing with his past and trying to manage his future is a lot.

The storyline and setting were fantastic. I enjoyed the Lancaster County setting. With the rolling farmland and small Amish community. I enjoyed the You’ve Got Mail feel to the story. I had a personal connection to this story with the bird watching as my family is starting to do a bird watching class. I enjoyed that aspect of the story. It was fun seeing the letter circle. What a fun concept.

The romance element was sweet and clean. Low-spice, slow build, as it was an enemies-to-lovers element. It was perfect.

Leslie Gould did a good job including faith elements throughout the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Rescued Heart by Megan Besing

Rescued Heart is the second book I have read written by Megan Besing, and it was fantastic. This is the seventh book in the Last Chance Fire and Rescue series, though it can be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone. There is some crossover in characters.

The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know Bia and Eddie. Bia is an actress and has layers to peel back to figure out who she truly is. Eddie and his heart for the foster kids is truly sweet.

The storyline was good. I felt it lacked a little bit of the traditional Lisa Phillips/Last Chance County elements. It was a lot more on the acting side of the storyline than the fire and rescue aspects. Though we do see a lot of that in the story, it had a different feel, not necessarily in a bad way, just different.

The relationship between Bia and Eddie was sweet and low-spice. A fake dating relationship turned into more.

Megan Besing did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Giveaway and Review: Perfect by Kimberly Keagan

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Perfect by Kimberly Keagan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Perfect
Series: Hearts on Display #1
Author: Kimberly Keagan
Publisher: Ventana Publishing, LLC
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance

In the glittering era of the Gilded Age, the heirs of Philadelphia’s Denwall Department Stores navigate family expectations, relentless ambition, and unexpected love. 

William Walraven’s picture perfect life is turned upside down when his fiancée jilts him for an English aristocrat and his father refuses to name him as his successor. To prove he’s worthy of leading Denwall Department Stores, Will must open their first New York store under budget and before the Christmas shopping season. 

Overwhelmed by disappointment and a nearly impossible deadline, Will has no time for distractions—especially not the captivating bookseller he saves from being crushed by a beer wagon. 

Ivy King and her aging grandmother are barely keeping their struggling bookshop afloat. Though drawn to the charming, enigmatic man who saved her life, Ivy has no illusions about her place in the world. It certainly isn’t beside a department store heir whose dazzling emporium threatens to close her family’s business. 

Brought together in the wake of an attack on Will’s brother, Will and Ivy find themselves at a crossroads—torn between the expectations that define them and a future neither expected.  

Perfect is a clean, wholesome historical romance featuring opposites-attract tension, class differences, a touch of mystery and humor, and an inspirational journey of faith and love.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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About the Author

Kimberly Keagan discovered her love for romance novels at thirteen, often choosing a book over chores. She believes there's nothing like being transported to another time and place to find a happily ever after.

Kimberly is blessed to have her own handsome hero husband and two wonderful children. After earning a degree in accounting, she enjoyed a career in investor relations, writing financial reports and press releases—terrific jobs, though not very romantic. Now, she's pursuing her dream of writing historical romance. Her short stories have been published in Spark Flash Fiction and Short Fiction Break. Kimberly's debut novel will release in 2025. When not reading or writing, Kimberly enjoys baking, gardening, watching sports, and researching her family tree.

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

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Review

Perfect is Kimberly Keagan’s debut novel. It was a pleasure to read her first published works. I look forward to reading some more of her works. It was a sweet Gilded Age story.

The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know William and see how he went through being jilted by his fiancée. Seeing his heart, his desire to launch the new department store for his father, while also helping out Ivy and spending time with her. Ivy was fun to get to know. She has a past to overcome, losing her parents and trying to keep their dreams alive, while also dealing with her leg that is shorter, which seems to be an embarrassment to her.

The setting was perfect: Manhattan, New York, in 1895. I loved walking the streets and envisioning the city at that time, seeing the beginning of department stores, the pushback, and the thoughts behind the need for them. I enjoyed the storyline. It made for a slightly slower pace after some of the other books I have been reading, but it was perfect.

The opposites attract relationship that blossoms between Ivy and Will is great. I loved watching them fall in love, and then overcome the hardships of being from different classes and untold truths. It made for a great low-spice romance.

Kimberly Keagan does a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive a “Perfect” Tea Time Bundle which includes a lovely tea set, a signed copy of Perfect, and other cozy reader treats—like a candle, stickers, coaster, and bookmark!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 6, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 13, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

Not Quite Mr. Knightley by Kim Griffin

Not Quite Mr. Knightley is the second book I have read by Kim Griffin, and it was great. Once again, she has written a book in which I connected with the characters on such a deep level that when I got to the end, I had to pause for a moment to say goodbye.

The character development was great. Nancy goes through quite the refiner’s fire. I love watching God work in her life as she goes through heartache and overcoming the consequences of her sin. Walt is such a caring guy. I loved watching him grow as a husband and faith.

The storyline was great. I loved that though Nancy's sin was more evident, Walt shared his past with his wife. Even though they had some hurdles to overcome, they were able to make things work.

The romance was good. Very low spice, the marriage of convenience, boy/girl next door trope was a slow burn, but I loved seeing it all work out.

Once again, Kim Griffin did such a great job intertwining faith throughout the whole novel. I came away refreshed and encouraged in my faith.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Giveaway and Review: Beauty in the Bittersweet by Jessica Stone

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

About the Book

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

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

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

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

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Jessica Stone Stories | Amazon

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About the Author

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

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

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Review

Beauty in the Bittersweet is the first book I have read written by Jessica Stone and I look forward to reading some more books. This was a book that I decided to read purely off of the cover and the words Gilmore Girls-esque in the description, and it did not disappoint. This will be a re-read for me in the future.

The character development was great. There were so many different layers to the characters and issues the characters were going through. Elle has just lost her mother and is having to pack up her mother’s estate and sell the house. Elle’s husband Micah is on tour managing a band and is not home very often. He makes some bad decisions and has an affair that greatly affects their marriage. Watching Elle and Micah fight for their marriage while going through everything else makes for such a vulnerable story. It really brought the characters to life.

The plot was great. I loved getting to go through the grieving process with Elle, while also fighting for her marriage while Martine (the woman her husband had an affair with) is telling lies about what transpired between her and Micah. Micah and Elle are trying to figure it out, while also working on their faith and marriage. Elle is also going through her mom’s journal, dealing with grief, but also finding out some things she didn’t know about her mom. I also loved getting a glimpse at the music industry from a different perspective. This has been my third story this year that touched on the music industry and it has been great.

The romance aspect was low spice. It did talk about the affair and the other party involved is trying to break up the marriage, so she tries to elaborate and tell falsehoods. Even with it all, it is a low-spice, closed-door romance.

Jessica Stone did a great job intertwining faith throughout the story. I loved that part of the sermon was included. I also appreciated the different scriptures sprinkled throughout. I loved seeing God redeem this marriage.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

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Tour Giveaway

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

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

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

Meet Me at the Grand by Lindsay Harrel

Meet Me at the Grand is the first book I have read written by Lindsay Harrel and I am excited to read more. This was such a perfect hallmark-esque book. But as avid readers, we all know that books are better than movies. Small island, with very small-town vibes. I would recommend starting with the prequel Meet Me on Jonathan Island, which is presently available for free on the Sunrise Publishing website.

The character development was good. I loved digging into Dani and her past. Seeing how things that happened as a kid shaped who she was and her ideas behind saving the island. Then seeing Liam and the things he went through and how he was also trying to overcome things that had happened as he was a kid, and how it had shaped his life, just trying to honor his mom.

The setting was perfect. I loved the small-town island feel. I also loved the no cars allowed on Johnathan Island. With a nod to Mackinac Island. Old town meets modernization. The storyline was fun. I enjoyed watching it all play out. I also loved meeting all the different characters. I look forward to seeing where they will go on this journey. And who we might meet in the next book.

The budding relationship between Dani and Liam was very sweet, clean, and low spice. It was the perfect balance.

Lindsay Harrel did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book. Reminding us that even when we don’t see God, He is still there. He does not abandon us. “You and God- you’re my safe places.” It was a great reminder to rely on God and lean into Him.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Giveaway and Review: Rescuing the Remnant by Tanya Sparks Belvin

About the Book

Title: Rescuing the Remnant Series: The Resurrection Project #2 Author: Tanya Sparks Belvin Publisher: Tonya Belvin Publishing Release Date: November 1, 2024 Genre: Christian futuristic

This sequel to The Resurrection Project continues the story of medical student Ellen McCarthy, who uncovers a sinister truth when she takes an internship at the Grindland Institute in Chapel Hill, NC. Ellen and her coworkers, having rescued a little girl from Grindland's mysterious Resurrection Project, pray for a plan to rescue the remaining children from this medical experimentation lab. Their success is a matter of life and death, and God is guiding them every step of the way. Set in 2034, this Christian futuristic novel offers a thought-provoking exploration on ethics and the sanctity of life. All proceeds from the sale of The Resurrection Project and Rescuing the Remnant go to Tim Tebow's unKnown Foundation, focusing on finding missing and exploited children.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

More in This Series

Book Review

Wow! This book is one that you just need to take a step back when you are finished reading and reflect. Rescuing the Remnant is the second book I have read written by Tanya Sparks Belvin and it was such a pleasure. It is the sequel to The Resurrection Project, and I would recommend reading it before reading Rescuing the Remnant.

The character development was great. I loved getting to come back to the same characters and getting to know some new ones as well. Getting to know the other children in the project a little better and connect with others. I enjoyed getting to see a little bit more behind the scenes of the mindset of Dr. Raymond Lyons. There are a lot of different characters sharing their perspective and can be a little hard to follow at times. Luckily, most are ones from the last book, so they were easy to keep straight.

I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and setting. It was so engaging and had the right balance of medical, futuristic elements and romance to drive the story. Science fiction is typically a genre I shy away from, but reading this series has shown me it doesn’t always have to be way out there to be considered science fiction.

The romance was a perfect balance and nothing over the top. The perfect low-spice romance.

Tanya Sparks Belvin did an excellent job intertwining faith throughout the story. It left me with lots to think about and touched on some hard subjects and concepts. I loved that she also included a conversion story and laid out steps of how to come to Christ in the back of the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

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About the Author

Tanya Sparks Belvin is a retired middle school teacher, with thirty-two years of experience. Her passion is serving the Lord, reading, writing, and entertaining her seven grandchildren. Tanya, her husband, Ron, and her mother, Tommie Moton, enjoy lakeside living in Denver, North Carolina. Tanya and Ron have three adult children.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card and a print copy each of The Resurrection Project and Rescuing the Remnant!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 15, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 22, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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