A Filling of Fables and Firelight ~ Release Day and Review

A Filling of Fables and Firelight 

Enchanting Confections

By Sarah Beran 

Rana Schehera has very strong opinions about the new Sultan and they are not favorable. When she is given the opportunity to be the seamstress for the upcoming "Queen Contest" she can't say no.

But Kamaran is nothing like Rana suspected. In fact, he has moments where he is very ordinary. And he feels that no matter what he does he will forever be viewed as a failure. He knows what he lacks and feels that he is a disappointment to his late father. 

Kamaran mistakes Rana for one of the "queen" contestants and Rana regrets that she did not enter the contest when given the chance. But at the time she didn't realize just who the Sultan was. The repartee between the two is fun as they influence each other to be better. Rana isn't impressed by titles and Kamaran is not impressed by "wannabe queens' who throw themselves at him--sounds like a perfect match.

This was a sweet, yet sensitive story that has all the potential for love or heartbreak. The question is what will be the outcome? I loved this story especially the animal antics--I mean who wouldn't want a pet Fennec fox or a tiger? Highly recommend. 

I was provided a complimentary copy with no expectations. All thoughts I expressed are my own.

Available for purchase at https://books2read.com/fillingff

A slice of bridal competition
A dusting of mistaken identity
And a whisk of love that might be nothing more than a fable.

Rana Schehera is fully content with her simple life. Newly employed as a seamstress under one of the most sought-after tailors in El Huram, she’s paid enough for her beautiful creations to both provide for her aging grandmother and keep a steady supply of her favorite sweets. That simple life is threatened, however, when the new Sultan decides to select his bride the traditional way—through competition—and Rana is one of the lucky seamstresses chosen to attend the competitors. Still, it should all be fairly straightforward…until the Sultan mistakes her for one of the princesses he’s meant to be courting and inexplicably keeps coming back.

Kamaran knew the throne was inevitable, but he wasn’t prepared for it to be his so soon. Now, reeling from loss and weighed down by the crown he never wanted and the responsibilities he never cared for, his council of viziers has added insult to injury by arranging for him to select a bride. His plan is simple: Go through the motions, eliminate a prospect each week, and hope that by the end, the last one standing will be at least tolerable. What he didn’t plan for was the pragmatic princess with an obsession for needlework and stories that capture his imagination.

With each evening that passes, Rana begins to see that Kamaran is more than the fickle, irresponsible Sultan he pretends to be, and she wants to be the one to fill the empty spaces in his heart. But as the end of the competition draws near, it becomes all too clear that the story she’s weaving may never have a happy ending.

A Filling of Fables and Firelight, a retelling of 1,001 Nights, is a standalone novella, complete with tropes such as Mistaken Identity, Commoner x Royalty, and Forbidden Love. It is part of The Enchanting Confections series, a collection of clean and cozy stories guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth.

The Princess List ~ Review

The Princess List

Heirs of Peverell #1

By Hannah Currie

There's nothing like getting an unexpected marriage proposal just as you are taking your first steps to find who you are. No, I have not personally experienced a marriage proposal, but this is what happens to Bayley Lorbera just as she's about to board her first airplane to a country that isn't Peverell. And, of course, it has to come from her childhood best friend, who is also the prince of  Peverell. Nope, not happening ever - she knows she is most definitely not princess material. Now she just needs to convince Cameron that there is someone better for him, somewhere.

But Cameron isn't about to take no for an answer, not when he knows that Bayley is the only woman her will ever love. But how is he to convince her of the truth he knows in his heart? But will his determination actually push Bayley away? And what if Bayley finds someone he could actually learn to love? Is he trying to force something that was never meant to be? 

 I loved how this book unfolded and how "the list" played such an important role. I think the underlying truth I got from this book was not the journey to find love or marriage, but learning to trust in God's timing and path. Worthiness is not determined by the opinions of others, who see only the outer appearance filtered through their own prejudices; no worthiness is a gift given by God. We have only to accept His gift.

This is a book I would recommend to teens and up. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

She has a list. 
Being a princess isn’t on it.

Having grown up in the palace, the daughter of two senior staff members, Bayley Lorbera knows all about palace life. Like where the best leftovers are stored after hours, and which forks go with which courses, and the quickest way to make an escape from any room in the castle. And the fact that she’s definitely not princess material. Princesses are supposed to be elegant, outgoing, and effortlessly charming. Not shy, average-sized, glasses-wearing, purple-haired girls more comfortable in fictional worlds than the real one. Bayley is perfectly content playing backup in a ballgown to the royal family while she works her way through the list meant to turn her into the kind of person she wants to be.

Hence the laughter when her best friend, Prince Cameron of Peverell, proposes. He can’t possibly be serious, can he? Marriage? Love? No way. Because seriously—not princess material. But Cameron is determined to win her, and she’s just as determined to prove to him how unsuited she is to the role, and find him someone who is. Easy, right?

Available to purchase at WhiteCrown Publishing and WhiteFire’s READ.

A Pint of Peaches and Poison ~ Review

A Pint of Peaches and Poison
Enchanted Confections

By Anabell Raven

Nykita was promised in marriage 100 years ago! No, she is not that old. But what's worse she is promised to a Mer-Fae Prince and fae are not to be trusted, ever. And especially if the said prince smiles too much and is way too nice for the whole pre-arranged marriage thing He must disguising his true purpose.

Warrick wants to have a marriage like his parents and hopes with time he will - he just needs earn her trust and get past the I'm-going-to-kill-you-first stage of their marriage. And deal with a rebellion that could destroy everything-the island, the alliance with his people, his marriage-everything.

This book was a fun twist on The Little Mermaid with peaches fire-breathing lizards, and expectations. Don't come in expecting an update to Anderson's original tale or an adaptation of what Disney presented, no, this is a tale as unique as the cover that graces its pages. And don't be surprised if you develop a hankering for peaches while you are reading.

                                            

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

1 Pinch of Poison.

1 Dash of Daring.

1 Fragile Alliance (and the lies that might set it on fire).

Their marriage was arranged a century ago, but she’ll do everything she can to stop it now.

Nykita spent years fighting her scheduled arranged marriage, and now that the day has finally arrived, she will take whatever measures she must to avoid binding herself to the ocean fae’s prince.

Warrick is determined to build a successful marriage with the human princess, but he did not expect to find her little kingdom on the verge of collapsing on itself.

Warrick and Nykita need to see past each others’ crisp edges and expose their own tender vulnerabilities if they hope to stop a rebellion and save the alliance between their people. It’s a good thing they have a fire chicken to help.

How will Warrick respond to life on land, reluctant rebels, and a princess who doesn’t eat sugar? What will Nykita do when she discovers she has worse enemies than the man she married? Find out in this delightful tale of magic, tension, and no-spice romantasy!

A Pint of Peaches and Poison, a wildly reimagined, reverse-gender Little Mermaid retelling, is a standalone novella, full of magic, betrayals, redemption, and delicious fruits. It is part of the Enchanting Confections series, a collection of cozy stories with no-spice romance guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth.

Order this Little Mermaid retelling at https://books2read.com/pintpp

Waking Courage ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Book Bee Blogger's Choice Blog Tour
with JustRead Publicity Tours!

I am thrilled to share yet another book from Beyond the Bookery's 
Fairy Tale Frenzy Collection

Waking Courage

Fairy Tale Frenzy

By Madisyn Carlin and Samantha Seidel

I absolutely loved A Stitch of Love by Madisyn Carlin. This story was a retelling of The Princess and the Pea and it is in the same world as her A Noble Protector. But you don't need to read the previous story to enjoy this one to the fullest. 

This was truly delightful as the ever-helpful noble ladies of court (aka meddlers) have decided that the kingdoms unwed princes need to get married, and a royal ball is the only way to introduce said princes to all the eligible ladies of the land (aka title hunting mothers and daughters).

Prince Ewan Landreth is the youngest and when an accident on the road leads him to rescue one of the seamstresses summoned to design the royal family's ball finery, well things get messy. Like mud messy and it always him to reconnect with Samara Perrson, who is not of the nobility, but she is on Ewan's mind -- a lot. Between scheming brothers and meddling, but well-intentioned noble women one of the Landreth princes just might get a chance at a HEA. Or just really muddy (read the book - you'll get it). 

Now I need more stories from this world featuring the rest of the Landreth princes.

Princess of Mine by Samantha Seidel gives us a Goose Girl retelling with a couple of unique twists. Yes, the princess is still replaced and forced to be a goose girl, but the story is not so dark as the original tale. No, Princess Analise is betrayed by those she trusted and doubts herself because of this. But when she learns what is dependent upon her marriage and the continued treaty between her old kingdom and her new one she realizes she must do something for the people. But convincing anyone that she is the true princess of Wilkenshire and betrothed to the prince of Aurel, well that is a little more difficult.

These two stories were delightful and the romance is firmly set in the sweet and wholesome category making them appropriate for tweens and up. I'd say they are Grandma approved and I would heartily agree. And if you want non-magical retellings this is for you. This is a 5-star read in every way.

About the Book:

Beyond the Bookery invites you to step into a collection of heartwarming, thrilling, and romantic fantasy fairy tale retellings.

A Stitch of Love by Madisyn Carlin
What happens when you combine a matchmaking shenanigans, an ornery dog, and a ball no one wants to attend? When seamstress Samara Perrson agreed to assist with the royal ball, she never expected to find herself unintentionally included in matchmaking shenanigans. She also never expected to fall for Prince Ewan Landreth. Can a troublemaking dog, scheming siblings, and a stitch of love bring these two together?

Princess of Mine by Samantha Seidel
Betrayed by her lady in waiting, Princess Analise Lockhart of Wilkenshire is forced into servitude in the highland empire of the Aurelian Cliffs. As the royal Goose Girl, she learns about the kingdom’s sudden misfortunes and their desperation for the union to succeed. Will she reclaim her title and save Aurel before the crown prince marries the wrong woman, or remain the peasant goose girl of a dying empire?

Be sure to check out all 14 titles in Beyond the Bookery's Fairy Tale Frenzy collection.

Available at Amazon.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $30 gift card (winner's choice of Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook, or Baker Book House)!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 8, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 15, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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

A Touch of Tiaras and Treachery ~ Review

A Touch of Tiaras and Teachery

Enchanting Confections

By Ashley Evercott

Oh, I absolutely LOVED this story! I loved Nin and how caring for her younger brother was the driving force behind all her actions — pickpocket, double for the princess, assassination bait.

 

Was it easy to impersonate a princess? Absolutely not — there are rules, multilayered clothes, etiquette, more rules, dancing lessons, and no tasty sweet treats. Did I mention rules? And absolute secrecy — only Captain Cedric Duval, the real princess, and Lucille know what's going on. To breathe even a hint at what they are doing could cost them their lives, their freedom, and well, really, everything. 

Yeah, not a fan of death because the big secret plan to save the princess does not go as planned. But a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do to save her brother. 

I have never had a macaron before, but after reading this, I need to find someplace that makes them and try one. You'll understand once you've read the story.

Would I recommend this book? Yes. 

Is it all Lollipops and Roses? No. 

Does it have a Happily-Ever-After? Yes.

And the ending totally loved it!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

For Nin, the dream was never a tiara—only survival. But when a desperate bargain promises her brother’s safety in exchange for taking a princess’s place, she can’t refuse. Thrust into a world of luxury and suspicion, Nin must master courtly etiquette to keep the true princess hidden. One mistake could cost more than her secret, it could cost lives.

Captain Cedric Duval lives by a strict code of order, discipline, and restraint. Training a street-smart pauper to impersonate a princess, however, proves far more difficult than any security drill. As he teaches Nin curtsies and royal customs, he begins to question the wisdom of his plan… and his growing feelings for the girl beneath the disguise.

With a royal wedding drawing near, Nin and Cedric must survive a court where danger lurks in the shadows and every dance could reveal hidden truths. Each step closer to uncovering the plot puts their deception—and their hearts—at risk. If they fail, it won’t be a princess the assassin strikes, it will be the girl wearing her tiara.

A Touch of Tiaras and Treachery, a gender-swapped retelling of The Prince and the Pauper, is a standalone novella, complete with tropes such as "swapped identities", "slow-burn", "princess training", and "bodyguard romance". It is a part of The Enchanting Confections series, a collection of clean and cozy stories guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth.

From the author Content Warning: This book contains an assassination plot, attempted assassination, non-explicit death, use of a coercive drug, mention of deceased parents, and poverty

Now Until Forever ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

Now Until Forever by Lisa Phillips, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Now Until Forever 
Brand of Justice #16 
By Lisa Phillips 

 First off this is the sixteenth book in the series but it can totally be read without reading the previous books first. Eliana Jaxton has moved to Chicago seeking information about her family and their past. She decided that if no one would answer her questions, she'd find the answers herself. But her quest for answers leads to her discovering a body. A murder in a place that is supposed to be secure. And from there everything starts going really strange.

Carlos Ryson is in Chicago looking for his missing sister when he gets called to The Shrine for a murder. He's just a police officer and not involved with the actual investigation. But he knows Eliana from before and he needs her help discovering what happened to Luci. Of course, he needs to get past the fact that he broke Eliana heart and that she wants nothing to do with him.

All of this starts Eliana and Carlos looking into a cultish group that has a shadowy leader only known as The Mother. And then there are the protesters who don't like The Shrine. It's a whole big ball of coincidence and mess. But no one really believes in coincidences, do they? 

This was an intense read that definitely left one wondering who would survive to the end of the book. There was a brutal murder scene and few other Eww moments dealing with dead bodies, but overall, this was a fairly good read. The romance was definitely in the clean category. I liked that the "villain" wasn't an early reveal. Only near the end did I wonder, could it be? But I did this with a couple of people so, yeah, the suspense continued to build. 

And the ending, I know this is supposed to be the series finale, but it could definitely lead into another story or spin-off series.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Now Until Forever 
Series: Brand of Justice #16 
Author: Lisa Phillips 
Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing, LLC 
Release Date: May 6, 2026 
Genre: Christian Thriller with Romance

**The Epic Stand-alone Finale** 

Born into a legacy, Eliana must find her own brand of justice. 

After moving to Chicago to work at the mysterious Shrine museum, Eliana is determined to uncover the family secrets she’s never been told. When she stumbles upon her first ever dead body, everyone around her believes she should try and solve the murder. But taking cases isn’t what she came here for. Despite her plans, things are about to turn far more sinister, and the path she’s on seems determined to drag her back into a nightmare. 

Chicago PD Officer Carlos Ryson was born into a legacy of his own. He’s here to look for his missing sister, Luci, and wants to enlist Eliana’s help. This is a family problem, and only family working together can solve it. But Eliana has never forgotten the way Carlos shredded her heart. If he wants them to team up, he’ll have to confront the damage he did and find a way to repair it. 

While the city around them descends into a chaos that resembles the end times, someone has seized the opportunity to get what they want from the Shrine. Only Eliana stands in their way, but if she’s going to figure this out she’ll need to trust that the people around her have her back.  

Before it’s too late.  

Now Until Forever is the stand-alone finale to the Brand of Justice series, and is set in the near-future. It features a happily ever after romance mixed with high-stakes suspense in this gripping crime fiction story.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.

Connect with Lisa by visiting authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each receive a paperback copy of Now Until Forever and various book merch goodies!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 18, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 25, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for print. If winner is outside the US, he/she will receive an ebook instead of paperback, along with some book swag. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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The Tale of Capri ~ Review

The Tale of Capri

A Story Inspired by MerMay 

The Capri Saga #1 

By Kathleen Solis

When Capri is injured and hunted, she has no choice but to make her way to land if she wants a chance at surviving. But she never expected that she would have to allow a human to help her. 

She doesn't trust humans, and doubts she ever will, she's seen the destruction they've caused, the pain, the suffering. But Eden is different. He seems kind, caring, and respectful. 

The Tale of Capri is a sweet story, but it is also a warning as Eden is given a chance to experience life in the ocean through Capri's eyes. The filth and destruction caused but humanities carelessness. The trash and contamination allowed to destroy the oceans. But it is also a love story and a lesson on the fragility of love when secrets are kept. 

This story is, in my opinion, a small gem of delight that is appropriate for teens and adults who are looking for a clean read and what a mermaid tale that is more than a retelling of The Little Mermaid. I love that it is inspired by Mer-May.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

P.S. Content warning: Drinking is discussed - it is warning against the consequences and even choosing your friends wisely.

About the Book:

Eden, a kind young lifeguard, rescues an injured mermaid named Capri, who absolutely doesn't trust humans. With no chance at survival at sea, Capri has no choice but to remain under Eden's care in his secluded saltwater pool. 

Over time, Capri's guarded heart begins to melt as she discovers a different side of humanity...and Eden begins to inadvertently fall in love with her while hiding a secret that would shatter the trust he's built with her. 

When Capri offers him a single wish, Eden's choice will change their lives forever, launching them into an adventure filled with wonder, love, and secrets that neither of them could have bargained for.

Scoundrel of Claymore Keep ~ Review

Scoundrel of Claymore Keep

The King's Spies #2

By Jill Williamson

First thing you need to know is you must read Shadow of Ice Island before you read this book. The two books go together, and Scoundrel of Claymore Keep picks up where Shadow left off.

Kurtz Chazir, Zanna tan Quelle, Cole Tanniyn, and Mistel Wepp are continuing to search for answers to the questions that they came across in Shadow. And Kurtz is looking for the woman responsible for putting him in Ice Island for thirteen years. He seeks justice for the woman who framed him for King Axel's murder, though some might call it vengeance, or revenge.

But when things start to go wrong Kurtz must face the truth—there's his way or Arman's way. Then there is Zanna whom for some strange reason has become important to him, after viewing her as an irritant and nemesis for so long. And this strange phenomenon seems to have affected Zanna too. 

With danger awaiting them and any misstep they might make, tensions are high and unnecessary (aka unwanted) feelings and attractions will just make matters worse; especially with something interfering with the ability to blood voice. 

I love how this series has added to itself over the years. And this companion/spinoff series is an excellent addition to the Blood of Kings story world. I love the subtle and not so subtle nuisances. Bring on the next installment; I'm a waiting!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

THE SCOUNDREL

Kurtz Chazir isn't looking for redemption—he's hunting for revenge.

Thirteen years in prison for a crime he didn't commit taught him three things: trust no one, question everything, and never forgive the woman who destroyed his life. Now free and working as one of the king's spies, Kurtz has a chance to track down Careeanne Nariel, the seductress who framed him for King Axel's assassination.

But first, he must lead a team into Barth, a city shrouded in supernatural darkness where magic and conspiracy intertwine. His mission: find a missing land warden and expose a trafficking ring selling innocent women. The catch? He has to do it while pretending to be a singing minstrel.

Kurtz may be many things, but a performer isn't one of them.

THE WARRIOR

Zanna tan Quelle doesn't take orders wellpespecially from arrogant former prisoners.

A half-giant soldier with more combat experience than patience, Zanna is assigned to Kurtz's team to provide protection. What she gets instead is endless bickering, impossible decisions, and a man who thinks he knows everything.

He's stubborn. Reckless. Infuriating.

And somehow, he's the only person who sees past her warrior's exterior to the woman beneath.

When their undercover mission goes sideways and ancient blood magic resurfaces, Zanna finds herself fighting battles on two fronts: against the black knights closing in, and against the unwanted feelings stirring in her heart.

THE CONSPIRACY

Duke Falkson's fortress holds dark secrets—human trafficking, demonic altars, and a thirteen-year-old murder conspiracy.

As Kurtz and Zanna infiltrate the nobility's inner circle, they discover the truth runs deeper than either imagined. The black knights aren't just soldiers—they're part of a network stretching across the kingdom. The missing women aren't lost—they're enslaved. And the darkness covering Barth isn't natural—it's powered by blood sacrifice.

When Zanna is captured inside Claymore Keep and Kurtz must choose between his quest for vengeance and saving the woman who's become everything he never knew he needed, he'll learn that some battles aren't won with swords.

They're won on your knees.

PERFECT FOR FANS OF:

Enemies-to-lovers romance with scorching tension
Action-packed fantasy with sword-wielding heroines
Inspirational fantasy grounded in faith
Found family and loyal friendships
Telepathic bonds and forced proximity
Undercover spy missions
Justice, redemption, and second chances

Continue the beloved Blood of Kings adventures today!

Loving Sarah ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Loving Sarah by Jo Huddleston, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Loving Sarah 
By Jo Huddleston 

Sarah Cunningham loves the life she lives in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. She runs the candy shop she inherited from her mama, and she's engaged to her high school sweetheart.  

But everything gets thrown into chaos when Robert Clanton comes to town following his daddy's accident. Sarah and Robert have an instant connection, almost as if they have known one another forever. 

This naturally causes Sarah all sorts of doubts. How could she have this familiarity with someone she's never met before? And what about William? Sarah is so confused about what the future holds for her.

This is an interesting read. As the reader, one has insider information that allows one to know what is going on. But one feels the frustrations and conflict that the main characters are going through as they have to work through everything. I know a few times I was like, "No, no, no!" and "Choose so-and-so!" 

The ending had a satisfying resolution with the story complete as is but there was a little wiggle room if the author decided to do a sequel. I think teens and adults who read Janette Oke or grew-up with Maddie Books would enjoy this book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Loving Sarah 
Author: Jo Huddleston 
Publisher: Forget Me Not Romances, a division of Winged Publications 
Release Date: May 12, 2026 
Genre: 1950s sweet small-town romance  

Sarah wears William’s engagement ring. Then, Robert arrives in town. 

In this love-triangle story, Sarah cheerfully manages the candy shop she inherited from her mama. Being engaged to be married to Gatlinburg, Tennessee’s most eligible bachelor, makes her life pretty much perfect. But then she meets Robert and has an unexplainable sense they’ve met before. 

Robert travels from Michigan to operate Gatlinburg’s main-street SkyLift attraction while his dad recovers from a fall. He’s miserable being relocated to this Tennessee mountains hick town. That is, until he meets Sarah and feels an instant attraction to her. He’s unaware that the town’s biggest secret involves him. 

Although she’s engaged to another, Sarah and Robert are mysteriously drawn to each other. This woman and her beloved mountains curb his desire to return to Michigan. Will Sarah give in to her feelings for Robert or be true to the man she’s promised to marry? 

Loving Sarah is steeped in the easygoing culture and traditions of the Smoky Mountains in the 1950s. The story is a sweet, small-town romance with a heart-wrenching battle to make the right choice. This book will keep you turning pages with its mix of loyalty, betrayal, uncertainty, and emotional stakes.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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About the Author

Jo Huddleston writes sweet Southern romances set in the 1950s, where you can escape into wholesome, faith-based love stories of deep commitment, hope, and happily-ever-after endings. Readers describe Jo as a wonderful storyteller whose books are sure to inspire and entertain you. Reviewers say her books should be Hallmark movies.

  She likes to laugh with people, but not at people. The beach is her favorite vacation spot. She’s a spectator fan of several sports, with tennis being her favorite. She doesn’t enjoy being in the dark and is fearful of snakes! 

Jo holds a BA degree with honors from Lincoln Memorial University (TN), where she is a member of their Literary Hall of Fame. She earned the MEd degree from Mississippi State University. 

Please visit Jo's website and get a free book when you sign up for her newsletter.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card + eBook of Loving Sarah!

(2) winners will each receive the eBook of Loving Sarah!

Full tour schedule linked below. 

The giveaway begins at midnight May 12, 2026, 

and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 19, 2026. 

Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and 

given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. 

No delivery restrictions. 

Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

A Batch of Bears and Bewitchment ~ Review

A Batch of Bears and Bewitchment

The Enchanting Confections

By Sarah Carlisle

When Bryony's father does a great service to the crown, he rewarded and Bryony finds herself marrying a stranger. After all, one doesn't refuse an honor from the king. Bryony just wishes the king hadn't felt the need to force such an honor on both her and her new, strange husband. 

And Aberarth, the place she's supposed to call home? Well, we'll just say it needs lots of elbow grease. Fortunately, Bryony isn't afraid of hard work, after all she's only married into the nobility, not born into it. But it isn't just the house that needs work, no the land too is affected by the curse that has fallen over everything. 

Bryony is more than a little confused by her new husband. Arthur always keeps a distance between them. He disappears and she never sees him during the day. And his office/study she is to stay out of it, no matter what, even if he blows things up on occasion. Then there is his talk that all she's doing is worthless if he can't fix something with his magic.

As the story progresses one begins to wonder if Bryony will ever discover what Arthur's secret is. I know I wanted to know what he was doing. This was a fun read based on a retelling of East of the Sun and West of the Moon. I found it to be very engaging and loved how we never are quite sure what to make of Arthur, who at times could be sweet and charming and at other times a grumbly grouch.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

The proudest day of Bryony’s life is the day her father, the village carpenter, is knighted for saving the king. The worst is when she learns the king has a reward for her, too: marriage to a stranger. Not just any stranger, but an earl with a frightening reputation.

Bryony arrives at Aberarth expecting polished floors, bustling servants, and a grand welcome. She’s met with an empty, neglected house and withered fields.

But Bryony isn’t delicate. She’s a village girl with stubborn optimism and capable hands. No servants? A new husband who's too busy making mysterious magical explosions in his study to help with the laundry? Fine. She’ll rebuild Aberarth herself. First step: leave milk on the hearth for the household brownies. Then she'll roll up her sleeves and get to work.

Because Bryony isn’t alone. Brownies, gremlins, dryads, kobolds—the fae have had reason to stay hidden. As Bryony coaxes the estate back to life, old magic stirs. And so does something dangerous and tender between her and the eccentric young earl. But Aberarth’s decay is a warning. Is Bryony the key to waking its true power—or the bait that triggers what’s buried beneath it?

A Batch of Bears and Bewitchment, a retelling of East of the Sun and West of the Moon, is a standalone novella, complete with tropes such as arranged marriage, friends to lovers, and villager to countess. It is part of The Enchanting Confections series, a collection of clean and cozy stories guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth.

A Goblet of Guises and Gooseberries ~ Review

A Goblet of Guises and Gooseberries

Enchanting Confections

By Abigail Manning

First off this is an adorable book! I absolutely loved the Goose Girl twist. Princess Emaline is finally going to get to meet her betrothed and get married. 

But her journey finds a tag-along goose hitching a ride on the top of her carriage. This is just the first oddity in her whole trip. And when she has a mishap with a mud puddle, she is unfit to meet the king and queen (aka her future in-laws). Whoops! Then one thing leads to another and a lack of listening finds Emaline and her handmaid Corrine switching places in a case of mistaken identity. 

Can Emaline find a way out of this mess she finds herself in? Who heard of a princess working as a field laborer? Yet Emaline finds herself in just such a role, but with the help of a fellow farmhand named Dane she at least has a few hours in the castle, not that it helps her regain her identity. 

This was the perfect weekend read. Fun and entertaining and perfect for most readers (I'm thinking 10+ would enjoy it). Even better there are no Grimm attributes to make this a scary read, just a disgruntled goose. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

A basket of berries, a dash of wild goose chases, and an identity swap that is nothing to honk about.

Princess Emaline has waited long enough for her betrothed’s family to invite her into their kingdom after the lengthy acquisition of a workers’ agreement. Accompanied by her new handmaiden and joined by a freeloading goose who rides valiantly on the carriage roof, Emaline is eager to explore her new kingdom–until her first exploration gets up close and personal with a local mud puddle.

A less-than-cordial exchange with their goose stalker leaves Emaline completely unsuitable to meet her future in-laws. In a desperate attempt to save face, her handmaiden kindly offers to greet the royals in her honor. Which would have been a grand solution had they not mistaken the polite maid for Princess Emaline…

Muddy, lost, and ready to pluck a goose, Emaline hunts for a discreet place to tidy up before rescuing her maid from the mix-up. But during her hunt for clean water, she stumbles onto the slave master's property and is taken in as a new worker. With no way to prove her identity or get in touch with her maid, Emaline must rely on the help of a smooth-talking farmhand who just so happens to be head over boots for the new princess. Now tasked with making the gooseberry wine for her own table, can Emaline reclaim her crown? Or is it all destined to be a wild goose chase.

An Amish Widow's Hope ~ Review

An Amish Widow's Hope

By Pamela Desmond Wright

Evan Miller left his Amish roots behind sixteen years ago, following a personal tragedy. But he left more than a way of life behind when he chose a law enforcement career; he left his family, the woman he loved, and his peace. Everything he has given up becomes clear when he answers a call at Isla Stohl's home. Regrets have never tasted so bitter. 

When Evan left without a word, Isla's world and life were thrown into chaos. She married and had a family, but it wasn't the life she and Evan had planned. Now Isla is widowed and struggling to make ends meet when she is robbed. She never expected Evan to walk back into her life, leading the investigation as sheriff.

As Evan does what he can to solve this rash of burglaries in the Amish community, he is put at a fork in the road, so to speak. What does he want from the rest of his life?  And then there is Isla. Could they have a chance at the future they had once dreamed of before he made a decision that should have been theirs to make, not his?  

An Amish Widow's Hope is a story of second chances, new beginnings, and finding one's way back home. There is a touch of mystery involved, but the focus is on rebuilding what has been lost and family. All said, this was a lovely read, and one I would highly recommend to those looking for clean reads and love stories that feature the power of redemption and forgiveness.

I was gifted a copy of this book by the author with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Regrets from the past

could lead to a chance for redemption…

After a terrifying break-in, widowed dressmaker Isla Stohl finds herself leaning on town sheriff Evan Miller. Sixteen years ago, Evan chose a law enforcement career over her and their Texas Amish community, and now he’s determined to make amends. Evan vows to keep Isla and her two children safe, but old feelings begin to arise once more. As he’s drawn back to his heritage and faith, he must decide if he can leave behind the life he built for himself in the Englisch world for the woman he’s never been able to let go of.

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness, and hope.

Available to purchase at:

 ChristianBooks.com,  Target.com, Walmart.com, Amazon.com

You can find more of  Pamela's Amish books online at Harlequin.com.

About the Author:

Pamela Desmond Wright
New York Times & Publishers Weekly bestselling author Pamela Desmond Wright grew up in a small, dusty Texas town. Like the Amish, Pamela is a fan of the simple life. Her childhood includes memories of the olden days: old-fashioned oil lamps, cooking over an authentic wood-burning stove, and making popcorn over a crackling fire at her grandparents' cabin. The cabin was later donated to The Muleshoe Heritage Center in Muleshoe, Texas, where it can be viewed by the public. 

For more info, visit Pamela online at: www.pameladesmondwright.com

Escape to Passignano ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Escape to Passignano by Normandie Fischer, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Escape to Passignano

Carolina Coast Stories

By Normandie Fischer

This was an interesting read. I will admit I had a little trouble getting into it at first. But I'm glad I pushed past my reader's block because once I was past I really got into this book. There is a bit of a mystery, a touch of romance, guilt, grief, and a glimpse into the spiritual aspects of the human heart. 

Sophia has been exploring Italy, the home of her late husband. She is seeking the peace he talked of and experienced. While there, she meets a young girl, Noemi, who captures her attention and maybe a bit of her heart. Turns out Noemi is in her aunt's care while her father grieves a great personal tragedy.

Things begin to happen that unsettle Sophia. One thing leads to another, and soon Sophia and Neomi's father, Dr. Luca Moretti, are searching for the young girl. This is when the mystery and the story's spiritual aspects come into play. 

This is a book that engages the reader on multiple levels and is well worth the journey, and one I'm glad I took.

I was provided a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own

About the Book

Title: Escape to Passignano
Series: Carolina Coast Stories
Author: Normandie Fischer
Publisher: Sleepy Creek Press
Release Date: March 31, 2026
Genre: Christian Women's Fiction

Can dreams be trusted when life feels like a nightmare?

Sophia chose to honor her deceased husband’s wishes by visiting his hometown of Passignano sul Trasimeno in the Umbrian region of Italy. She’s trying to find the peace he promised, really she is, while she studies his language and sips caffè with a view of mountains and lake. Only, things begin to happen involving a red-haired child who speaks of things she cannot know—and the child’s father whose very presence challenges that peace. 

Dr. Luca Moretti still wrestles with guilt three years after the death of his wife and older children. Overwhelmed by grief, Luca gave the care of his toddler daughter, Noemi, to his sister. It was supposed to be temporary; it wasn’t. Now, Luca wants Noemi back. 

When his sister flees, taking Noemi into hiding, Sophia joins forces with a desperate Luca to piece together dreams and voices and supernatural nudges to retrace Noemi’s steps. It’s going to take trust, though, something in short supply for both Luca and Sophia. They’ll have to learn to trust in one another, and, more importantly, to trust in God—that a God who would allow such pain really does mean to work it all out for good. For Noemi. For the two of them. And for a troubled woman from North Carolina who enters their orbit with her own demons, demons God uses—and dispels—as He wills.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

Normandie Fischer had the best of several worlds: a Southern heritage, access to schooling in the DC area (which meant lots of cultural adventures), and several years of sculpture studies in Italy. It might have been better for her if she'd used all these opportunities more wisely, but it's possible that the imperfect and the unwise also add fodder for the artist and the writer.

She writes Christian and Southern fiction as well as romantic suspense from her waterfront base in coastal North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, their two dogs, and a once-feral cat. If only her children and grandchildren lived within hailing distance, life would be just about perfect.

Connect with Normandie by visiting normandiefischer.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive three books of their choice by Normandie Fischer!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 20, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 27, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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