The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane

I couldn't be happier to read another book of this wonderful series. Kit is quite a character.  Jackson, her husband, knows he can't stop her when she is determined to solve yet another mystery. But this time the whole family is in danger!

The story is based in Victorian England, one of my favorite time periods. Kit is not your typical Victorian housewife.  She would much rather be out in the streets solving crimes than in her kitchen.  She can't cook.  She's not good with a needle and thread.  But give her a case to solve!

I received this wonderful story from Celebrate Lit to review.

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Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 26

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 26

Book Looks by Lisa, April 26

Live. Love. Read., April 27

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She Lives To Read, April 27

Texas Book-aholic, April 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 28

All-of-a-kind Mom, April 29

Where Faith and Books Meet, April 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 30

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Pause for Tales, April 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 1

Blogging With Carol, May 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 2

For Him and My Family, May 2

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, May 2

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Wishful Endings, May 3

Bizwings Book Blog, May 4

Daysong Reflections, May 4

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, May 5 (Author Interview)

Kristina Hall, May 5

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 6

The Lofty Pages, May 6

Cover Lover Book Review, May 7

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, May 7

Blossoms and Blessings, May 7

Holly’s Book Corner, May 8

Back Porch Reads, May 8

Lily’s Corner, May 9

Life of Literature, May 9

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 9

About the Author

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan.

 

About the Book

Book: The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction

Release Date: April, 2024

Wife. Mother. Homemaker. Detective. Kit Forge wears many hats, and if that’s not enough, she’s partnered with her father to open a new detective agency. It’s hard to be all things to all people, but Kit never shies away from the impossible. Despite her hard work and good intentions, some things fall through the cracks.

Namely, her husband.

But Jackson barely notices. He’s too busy putting out his own fires. As the new chief inspector of a busy London station, he must salvage the disaster left behind by the former police chief—an obstacle made all the harder when the superintendent breathes an ultimatum down his neck.

Against her father’s advice, Kit takes on a case involving a missing child, one in which she and Jackson become a little too emotionally involved. . .and end up endangering their own little girl in the process.

Can Kit and Jackson learn that just because they can say yes doesn’t mean they should?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

More from Michelle

Oh Inspiration…Wherefore Art Thou?

There are several questions I am asked frequently as an author.

“Hey, how much money do you make?”

“Can you help me get my book published?”

“How come it takes you so long to finish a story?”

But probably the most common query is this: what sorts of things inspire you? Now that is a question I can go on and on about! Don’t panic, though. I’ll be brief.

Story ideas come from every place imaginable. I’ve had plot thoughts from watching kids’ movies or even from eavesdropping at a coffee shop (note: beware what you say in public). TV series are also a favorite of mine, so much so that my latest release, The Sleuth of Blackfriars Lane, is loosely based on one of my all-time favorite PBS series.

Have you seen this show? If not, do yourself a favor and ride that pony. If you have, then you know what I’m talking about. Either way, you should know that, the main character, is a detective in Victorian London—a very sassy yet classy lady. And that’s what struck me light a lightning bolt.

This woman is Kit, the heroine in my Blackfriars series, like right there on the big screen.

So, for book III, I decided I’d let ol’ Kit open her own private investigation agency with the help of her father, a recently retired police sergeant. Of course much intrigue and chaos ensues, just like in my all-time favorite PBS series, bringing the Blackfriars series to a satisfying end.

Inspiration honestly comes from anywhere, so next time you’re rubbing elbows with an author, beware. You just might end up as a character in their next book.

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2b146/the-sleuth-of-blackfriars-lane-celebration-tour-giveaway

Earning the Mountain Man's Trust

 

I enjoy reading book series. You know the characters from the previous books.  It's like coming home.  This is how I felt while reading this latest story from Misty M. Beller.  I really enjoyed learning more about this wonderful family.

Things didn't turn out the way Naomi planned.  Her feelings of loss and abandonment led her in a different direction.  She had everything figured out, she thought.  Until Eric appeared.  This is a clear example of God's plan.  HIS plan is better than anything we could ever imagine. 

Once trust is lost, it is difficult to earn it back.  Is it even possible? Yes, but Can Naomi and Eric?

I enjoyed every page.  

#blogtour

#Celebratelit

I received this book to review from Celebrate Lit.

 

About the Book

Book: Earning the Mountain Man’s Trust

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: April 9, 2024

In the wild mountains of the Montana Territory, the Coulter ranch is a place of family, second chances…and a hidden fortune.

Naomi Wyatt has finally given up on the man who once promised to love her for the rest of his life—then disappeared with no way to contact him. She’s now a single mother with a beautiful baby girl to provide for, a daughter whose red hair reminds her daily of the man she gave her heart to. She has to move on though, so when Jonah Coulter asks for her hand in marriage, she knows she would be hard-pressed to find a better husband for herself and father for her sweet daughter. He’s a Coulter, after all, and he’s proven to be a good friend during her darkest hours.

But when her first love rides onto the ranch property saying he’d been searching for her for months, her heart is shredded once again. Before she has time to catch her breath though, a new threat appears on the horizon. This time she has far more at stake than her heart, and only a Divine hand can turn this disaster for their good.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a mountain family saga filled with a second chance romance, love triangles, hidden treasure, and love that heals wounded hearts.

More from Misty

A HEROINE DISGUISED AS A MAN

I love a heroine in disguise! It’s one of my favorite tropes, but I don’t often get to write stories with that plot. It adds so many fun and funny moments to the storyline. J

In Rocky Mountain Journey our heroine goes undercover as a “man” to travel with a group of trappers so she can reach her destination safely. Numbers meant a better chance of survival back in those days. I love that Grant, our hero, was the only man in the trapper group who looked close enough at the young “man” riding with them to realize things weren’t what they seemed at first glance.

One challenge that definitely arises in a story where the heroine is pretending to be a man is the development of the romance between her and the hero. In this case, Faith was pretending to be her (fictitious) brother Frank. Grant had met Faith in an earlier chapter before she took on the disguise, and he immediately noticed the resemblance between “Frank” and the woman whose memory still lingered with him, even days later. Every time he looks at “Frank” while they’re traveling with the trappers, he recalls the memory of Faith by the waterfall…and the attraction to that woman grows a little more every time. What a shocking surprise when he discovered she’s riding just ahead of him on the trail the entire time!

I pray you love Faith’s stint “in disguise” in Rocky Mountain Journey! J

Blessings!

Misty

About the Author

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , April 23

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 24

Pause for Tales, April 24

Madi’s Musings, April 25

Alena Mentink, April 25

Devoted To Hope, April 26

Texas Book-aholic, April 26

Lighthouse Academy Blog, April 27 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 28

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, April 29

Wishful Endings, April 29

Life on Chickadee Lane, April 30

lakesidelivingsite, April 30

Cover Lover Book Review, April 30

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, May 1 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, May 2

For Him and My Family, May 2

Book Looks by Lisa, May 3

Melissa’s Bookshelf, May 3

Betti Mace, May 4

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 4

The Lofty Pages, May 5

Holly’s Book Corner, May 5

An Author’s Take, May 6

Blossoms and Blessings, May 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2b143/earning-the-mountain-man-s-trust-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Girl from the Hidden Forest

Eliza lived with whom she thought was her father. She lived a life of deception.  She was unaware of how she came to the Hidden Forest.  She fought to stay there.  It was all she knew and loved.  Until one day she was snatched away.  

Danger was beyond the forest.  She was taught that.  It became a reality.  Whom could she trust?  Where was she safe?

Felton found her and wanted to protect her.  But the truth had to be revealed.  Even if the truth was unfavable.  

I enjoyed the story.  It was a page turner.  The mystery unfolds and the answers were uncovered.  I was surprised by the ending.

I received this book from the author, Hannah Linder.  

About the author

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjolele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.

Return to Love's Promise

No.  It can't end there.  There has to be another page.  This is how I felt when I finished this latest addition to the The Amish Bonnet Sisters.  Book 41 is just as great as Book 1.  

Wilma, the mother of the sisters, has a decision to make.  Is she ready for her life to change once again? 

I really have enjoyed getting to know each family member.  I really believe Wilma is a Saint.  She handles chaos and the ups and downs of family life in a calm and patient manner.   

I received this book to review from the author, Samantha Price.

#SamanthaPrice

#blogtour

ABOUT SAMANTHA PRICE.

Samantha Price is a USA Today Bestselling author of Amish romance books and cozy mysteries.

She was raised Brethren and has a deep affinity for the Amish way of life, which she has explored extensively with over a decade of research.

All her books are clean and wholesome reads. 

Samantha is mother to two pampered rescue cats, and a very spoiled staffy with separation issues.

 

His Treasured Bride

 

Daisy didn't expect to ever find a husband.  She made a list of what she wanted in a mate.  There couldn't be anyone that would even be close to her qualifications. 

Seth had no need for a wife.  He was determined to find the hidden treasure. 

So how did Seth and Daisy land up married and on a treasure hunt together?

This is Book 2 of the Bride Ships New Voyages Series.  I read Book one and loved it.  Book 2 is even better.  I really liked Daisy.  She was a treasure.  Did Seth see the treasure that was right there beside him?

Thank you, Jody Hedlund, for giving me the opportunity to read and review this wonderful story.

#blogtour

#JodyHedlund

AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of The Doctor's Lady and The Preacher's Bride. Jody has received much industry recognition, most recently being awarded an ACFW 2014 Carol Award in the Historical Romance category for her novel, 'A Noble Groom'.

In addition to this, Jody has also received the 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award; the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers; and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards.

Currently she makes her home in Michigan with her husband and five busy children.

Springtime in Surrey

 

I'm sitting here in dreary February reading an anthology about Spring.  Spring can't come any faster for me in cold Michigan.  This book includes eight sweet stories based in Surrey.  The collection was a mixture of contemporary and historical.  I lean towards historical stories.  I wasn't disappointed at all with this anthology.  I was touched by many.

  

I can't pick one of the stories as my favorite.  I did enjoy some more than others. I have never read any of these authors before.  Each story was Christened based.  I appreciate that.  I wasn't shocked by anything written. 

I won't bore you with a play by play of each tale.  I recommend you pick up a copy.  It's a long anthology with over 400 pages but it was a quick read for me.  I'm sure you will enjoy it like I did.

I received this from Celebrate Lit to review.

Blog Stops

Alena Mentink, April 5

Devoted To Hope, April 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 6

Texas Book-aholic, April 7

Lighthouse Academy Blog, April 8 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

She Lives To Read, April 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 11

Pause for Tales, April 11

Cover Lover Book Review, April 12

Batya’s Bits, April 13

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 14 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 15

For Him and My Family, April 16

Blossoms and Blessings, April 17

Holly’s Book Corner , April 18

Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 18

About the Book

Book: Springtime in Surrey

Authors: Faith Blum, Andrea Renee Cox, Bailey Gaines, Katja H. Labonté, Grace A. Johnson, Rachel Leitch, Erika Mathews, and Kellyn Roth

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction, Historical and Contemporary

Release Date: July 25, 2023

Springtime in Surrey, the first collection releasing with Wild Blue Wonder Press, is a Christian anthology featuring eight lovely stories. With a mix of historical and contemporary, romance and women’s fiction, a dash of mystery here and there, real-life themes presented in a loving way, and a vintage feel, this story is sure to charm lovers of Christian women’s fiction.

Jesus, I Am Resting by Faith Blum

Elinor Chapman, an orphaned laundry woman, must fight to survive after WWI breaks out. She prays her beau doesn’t die on a foreign battlefield like her father did 14 years ago. She is forced to take on nursing, but her passion for helping other orphans distracts her from this job, leaving her little time for rest. Will she run herself into the ground … or will she learn to rest in Jesus?

The Cottage on the Hill by Andrea Renee Cox

During every teatime at her cottage hideaway, Moira struggles to discover hope amongst her lost ballerina dreams. Unsettled by elusive goals of his own, sheep farmer Adrian observes his uncle’s neighbor crying into her tea and wonders why… and what he can do to cheer her up. While facing their regrets, can Moira and Adrian trust that God has a good plan despite crushed dreams and far-off hopes?

If I Knew You Were Coming by Bailey Gaines

With her husband off to war and two evacuee children staying in her home, Joan feels duty-bound to contribute to the war effort via her participation in the Women’s Land Army. She is thrilled to learn that her husband has leave. But when the London Blitz ruins her plans to see him, Joan must decide what is most important in her life: her contribution to the war effort or her calling as a mother?

Her Heart’s Home by Grace A. Johnson

Forced from her childhood home after her father was killed in action, Meredith Tate is forced to seek employment at the Deepdene Hotel until she discovers the next step. Which most certainly does not include the brooding Captain Trevor Seaton, a guest who always manages to catch her at her worst. Despite his gentle magnetism, Meredith is determined not to fall for a military man—but God may have other plans.

The Tussie-Mussie by Katja H. Labonté

Caitrìona is determined to rescue her family from poverty by making a brilliant match. She is on the verge of success when her brother is arrested for a sensational crime. Banished to the country, she meets Ewart, a fearful recluse with a younger sister in need of aid. Ewart and Caitrìona grow together through shared goals—but as mysteries are uncovered and characters tested, what truth will be revealed?

The Odd Duck Society by Rachel Leitch

Jessamy Aubertine is too much for her university classmates, too little for her overstressed mum, and nothing in between. Then a mysterious letter signed by Jane Austen brings her back to her family’s fading tea shop and a pair of unlikely comrades. Will they find the letter writer—and perhaps discover themselves along the way? Or will their friendship fade with The Muses?

Fear Not Tomorrows by Erika Mathews

Hardworking Margaret Enfield is thrilled with her engagement to her lifelong best friend Lester. When his brother’s sudden illness forces Lester’s prolonged and indefinite absence, every tomorrow feels bleak to Margaret as lonely drudgery overtakes the once-rosy springtime. As she throws herself into her tasks, can she learn to trust her tomorrows with Jesus—one day at a time?

Courage to Stay by Kellyn Roth

Rosalind finds herself engaged to Matthias after her former fiancé, his brother, perishes in battle. Determined to forge a connection, she embarks on a risky mission. When Matthias retreats into his own turmoil on a hunting trip, Rosalind disguises herself as a man and follows him to the forest, vowing to fight for their love. Will Matthias summon the courage to stay, or will his fractured mind drive them apart forever?

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Wild Blue Wonder Press was established in January 2016 by Kellyn Roth for the purpose of independently publishing her historical women’s fiction series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy. Based on a special location on her family’s property and a childhood stumbling over phrases, Kellyn chose the name to evoke feelings of wonder in a world full of dark valleys. After all, where there is snow and ice, there will be chickadees, and in the midst of the darkest woods, you can often find a cozy cabin. Wild Blue Wonder Press is now working with other creatives to expand its outreach and help other independent writers achieve their dreams in a professional manner.

More from Kellyn

Hey everyone! I’m Kellyn Roth, owner of Wild Blue Wonder Press and one of the authors on the Springtime in Surrey collection. I just wanted to come on here today and talk briefly about Surrey—and specifically answer the question I’m sure many of you had in your minds when you learned that the novella collection was set in this English county: “Why Surrey?!”

As authors, we often find inspiration in the places we call home … but sometimes it’s more fun to find inspiration far afield!

The landscapes, the people, and the unique atmosphere of a location can and should shape the stories we tell. Though none of our authors are actually natives of Surrey, our stories are set there! So why?

Well, I’ll tell you.

Reason #1: There’s a Lot of History in Surrey

Surrey is a place steeped in history, with tales that date back centuries. It has links to the Magna Carta and played a heavy role in the English Civil War. A lot of historical figures came from Surrey or spent significant amounts of time there.

Quite a few of our stories are set in history, and the ones that aren’t bear some vintage link that ties them back to the “olden days.” There’s such beauty in history, and as a historical author, I love featuring stories that delve back into the past!

Reason #2: It’s Gorgeous There!

Surrey’s landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for storytelling—our Pinterest board will tell you that much! From the rolling hills of the North Downs to the tranquil beauty of the “Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” (what a mouthful!), this county offers an abundance of scenic vistas that captivate both locals and visitors alike.

We hoped to transport our readers to a place of natural wonder and evoke a sense of serenity through the quaint settings. Some of our stories take place in the countryside—and some in villages or towns. But all of them are so atmospheric and fun!

Reason #3: All the Quaint Villages and Towns

One of the defining characteristics of Surrey is its charming villages and towns, each with its own distinct character and charm. From the cobblestone streets of Guildford to the historic market town of Farnham, these locales are brimming with personality and provide a sense of community that is often lost in larger cities.

By setting some of our stories in these close-knit communities, we hope to capture the essence of Surrey’s rural charm and the warmth of its residents. I mean, who doesn’t love a village? (I’m a fan!)

Reason #4: It’s Close to London

While Surrey is known for its rural beauty, its proximity to London makes everything a little easier for us authors. The county acts as a gateway to the capital, allowing for the infusion of city life and providing opportunities for our characters to embark on exciting adventures beyond the county’s borders … or to have them be “running away” from something, as is the case in some stories.

Though alliteration did play a role, as you may have guessed, Surrey’s draws spoke for themselves—and I’m so glad we chose this dynamic county!

Join us as we embark on this literary exploration of Surrey, England!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kellyn is giving away the grand prize package of a $100 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of Springtime in Surrey!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2ac77/springtime-in-surrey-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Cottage in Sweet Meadow Park

 

Molly always dreamed of owning the cottage. But did she make a mistake when she bought it?  It was located in a rundown park called Sweet Meadow.  Molly found that it was not as sweet as she thought it was. What can she do about it now?

The cottage was going to be a challenge. Could Molly make it the home she always dreamed of? 

Molly had no idea that this sweet, little cottage would change her life.  

It's a darling story with characters that you become attached to.  

I received this book from Boldwood to review.

#BoldwoodBooks

#blogtour

#rararesources

The Cottage in Sweet Meadow Park

Enjoy a stroll in the park with this uplifting story of love, friendship and following your dreams. 

When Molly Brown buys a derelict cottage in the middle of a rundown park, she hopes to return both the cottage and the park to their former glory. However, Molly soon begins to wonder whether she’s bitten off more than she can chew, especially when the good-looking guy from the council refuses to help.

In his role as Parks and Highways Officer, Jack Feathers doesn’t want to waste public funds on an overgrown, unloved park, no matter how gorgeous Molly is. But when he finds himself needing somewhere to live, Molly makes him an offer he can’t refuse – to move into her spare room, rent-free.

The catch? He has to help bring the park back to life.

It seems to be an ideal solution, until… Molly falls for Jack, the park is vandalised, and she realises he is still in love with his ex.

And soon Molly begins to regret letting Jack into her home, her life and her heart.

A delightful romance full of warmth, humour and community spirit, perfect for fans of Jessica Redland and Suzanne Snow.

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/CottageSMP

Author Bio – 

Liz Davies writes feel-good, light-hearted stories with a hefty dose of romance, a smattering of humour, and a great deal of love.

She's married to her best friend, has one grown-up daughter, and when she isn't scribbling away in the notepad she carries with her everywhere (just in case inspiration strikes), you'll find her searching for that perfect pair of shoes. She loves to cook but isn't very good at it, and loves to eat - she's much better at that! Liz also enjoys walking (preferably on the flat), cycling (also on the flat), and lots of sitting around in the garden on warm, sunny days.

She currently lives with her family in Wales, but would ideally love to buy a camper van and travel the world in it.