Lion of Judah ~ Review

Lion of Judah
The Song of Prophets and Kings #5
By Henry O. Arnold

Lion of Judah is the fifth book in The Song of Prophets and Kings series. This is the first book in this series that I have read, and it can be read well as a standalone title. 

This book focuses on the life of David from the beginning of his reign over the Kingdom of Israel until his death. Along the way, David proved over and over that he was human. Yes, he had moments of triumph, but these were often mixed with low points. Some of which had lasting consequences on not only his life, but that of his family, and his kingdom.

David is often referred to as a man after God's heart. This wasn't because of his goodness, but because he repented. Though sometimes he had to be brought to a moment of reckoning by God before he could admit his failings to not only God but himself.

This book offers a glimpse into the heart and mind of David, drawing on the Bible and the author's skillful use of words. Overall, this is an interesting read. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Release Date: May 15, 2025
Genre: Biblical/Historical Fiction

The new king is crowned in triumph…
But his pride proves to be a fatal flaw…
And from out of his own house calamity falls upon him

Once a shepherd, a captain, and a fugitive, David is now king. He left behind the dangers of life on the run and embraced the comforts of living in the palace. No longer known as the “giant-slayer,” but as the “lion of Judah,” King David enjoys the popularity and prosperity brought on by his victories.

But peace in the nation of Israel has a double-edged sword. David’s pride subverts his judgment, and his desires overwhelm his heart leading him down a dark pathway. The king will go to any lengths to cover up his crimes, but disaster falls upon the House of David bringing this broken and contrite king to cry out to Yahweh for mercy.

Lion of Judah continues the tale of triumph and tragedy, deepest love and burning rivalries; the new epoch is given a voice…and it is The Song of Prophets and Kings.

Also available:

                                 

                                        

These Lying Dreams ~ Review

These Lying Dreams: A 1920s Sleeping Beauty Retelling

The Rose Heist Tales: Prequel

By Emma Donovan

Welcome to Bite-Sized Books! A quick read that delighted my senses. I loved the hints at Sleeping Beauty and the Gothic-vibes the story gave off. Not super scary just a tantalizing whisper that passes through, like a glimpse of something out of the side of one's eye.

Evelina Fairchild hears something that troubles her, but fearing that she will not be believed, sends a letter to her solicitor. Not-so-long story short, the solicitor sends David Peregrine in his place. But things just seem off to David, so he decides to nosy about to figure things out.

Soon, he discovers just how dangerous this crumbling estate really is. I loved this book and hope for more from this new-to-me author. This was a clean read that offered just enough mystery to keep my attention while providing a story short enough to be enjoyed in one sitting.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

A mysterious letter brought David Peregrine to the home of a reclusive client, former concert pianist Evelina Fairchild. But once he arrives, Evelina has only lies to tell, and her home seems less a refuge than a prison.

The more he investigates, the deeper he's drawn into a web of illusions, secrets, and madness. If he can't sort the truth from the lies soon, more than one life might be lost.

Interview with Jessica A Tanner

Today, I am sharing a fun interview with Jessica A. Turner, the author of the recently released Peaflower. 

Jessica, thank you for taking the time to give us a glimpse into you and your writing.

1) Who is your favorite comfort read author?

Hmm. Clive Cussler. He’s not a fantasy author – more an adventure one. I really like his Isaac Bell adventures—solving crimes, catching bad guys, traveling the US or the world during the 1920s, ‘30s, and ‘40s.


2) What do you most like about this genre that you are writing in?

The genre I am writing in allows me to take old ideas and turn them on their heads. To help people see life from a new perspective. To sprinkle a little magic on the everyday. To inspire. And maybe share a laugh or two!


3) Who, past or present, is one author you would like to mentor you?

I’d like one more sit-down session with my friend and mentor, Linda Farmer Harris. She wrote many stories—one of my favorites is a novella, The Lye Water Bride, in The California Gold Rush: Romance Collection from Barbour Publishing. And she wrote with heart—drawing readers into a memorable tale while sharing her faith.



4) How do you develop your setting (a photo, a trip, a random comment)?

I just start writing and let the world unfurl as the characters interacts with it. Once I have the basic idea, I fill in a few details so readers can better get a feel of what I see in my imagination.


5) If you could share a cup of tea (or coffee) with anyone, who would it be?

I’d like to share a cup or two of hot cocoa with my grandparents. It was super fun when we’d make up mugs of hot cocoa and squirt whip cream on each other’s cups. I miss them.



6) Do you have a favorite author that you would recommend?

I have more than one. Jaime Jo Wright—her time split novels keep me turning the pages and her ability to describe a scene or a mood is stellar, but sometimes they feel a bit dark even though I know the light will win. Clive Cussler—especially his Isaac Bell adventures. Debbie Macomber—her stories featuring the angels and their antics around Christmas time are heartwarming and hilarious!


7) What one book would you recommend that everyone read?

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackey.


8) Who is your favorite character in your book?

Depends on which book. With Sonji, it’s Sonji. With Peaflower, it’s Princess Marion’s pet rat Cleevy.


9) Should I read Peaflower in conjunction with any of your other books, or is it a standalone title?

Peaflower is a standalone. I’m hoping to tell a few more stories in the same story world, but plan for them too to be standalones.


10) What did you most enjoy when writing Peaflower?

Cleevy’s opinion on everything and everybody.


11) Is there a specific line or scene from Peaflower that you feel directed the story in a specific direction? If it had not been in the story, would everything have changed?

This may sound silly—but if Prince Rupert hadn’t thrown Princess Marion into a pond when they were kids, it could have changed the story. She needed to be able to be mad at someone, EVEN if that someone wasn’t the real root of her current troubles.


12) Did you learn anything about peaflowers while writing this book?

I did. Peaflowers often stand for delicate beauty.



13) What one question would you like to be asked, and how would you answer it?

Here’s the question: So many of your reading suggestions and favorite authors are not part of the fantasy or fairytale genre or even YA fiction, how did you get into writing what you do?

And here is the answer: I enjoyed fantasy and fairytales as a kid, but what I found in the YA department turned me off. I jumped into the adult section, but those genres for adults often took dark turns that scared me. I wanted something that gave me the feels of a middle-grade fantasy, but starred people my own age—people who weren’t sucked into evil or caught up in some sort of love triangle. I wanted adventure and healthy relationships (not just romantic ones!) and good triumphing over evil. So, I started writing it.

Again, thank you, Jessica, for allowing us a glimpse into your book life!


About the Book:

Her kingdom is under attack. His brother is her betrothed.

Princess Marion Thornhill and her lady-in-waiting Emma flee their kingdom of Brecker with the hope of reaching the princess’s betrothed and garnering help against attacking forces. But along the way, Emma reveals her true loyalties. Left stranded in the woods during a spring storm, Marion crosses paths with her betrothed’s brother Rupert, a prince cursed by an angered fairy. Rupert helps Marion - but can they get help for Brecker before it’s too late? And what about their entangled hearts?

Spring has sprung with these seven swoony-sweet retellings. Each novella finds its happily ever after amidst themes of rebirth, hope, and new life. Each book is fully independent, and they can be read in any order. Peaflower is a retelling of The Princess and the Pea featuring tropes such as an evil lady-in-waiting and a princess with an animal sidekick.

Check out my review of Peaflower at the following link: https://bloomingwithbooks.blogspot.com/2025/05/peaflower-review.html

Peaflower ~ Review

Peaflower: A Princess and the Pea Retelling

A Garden of Fairy Tales Book

By Jessica A. Tanner

Princess Marion Thornhill is forced to flee when her kingdom is attacked. She, her lady-in-waiting, and guards are sent to ask for aid from Princess Marion's betrothed. But surprises await Marion, starting with a betrayal. Thank goodness, Marion has Cleeevy, her loyal pet rat, to keep her company and assist her as she struggles to survive the evil plots of those who turned on her. When she unexpectedly crosses paths with Prince Rupert, her betrothed's younger brother, he helps her as much as his curse allows. But can they find a way to overcome curses and betrayals to find a happily-ever-after?

Peaflower is A Princess and the Pea retelling, but the further one gets into the pages of this book, the more nods there are to other fairy tales. Then there is Cleevy, who is a significant character throughout this book. We get to hear his thoughts and see his heroic personality in action. This is a charming read featuring a dangerous adversary or two who aim to bring down Marion and the Kingdom of Becker. Truly dastardly doings that need a furry hero to step up and thwart them.

I love Cleevy and wish all rats could be so helpful. This was a fun read, and I thoroughly enjoyed this truly unique retelling and mash-up of fairy tales. A few of the fairy tales I noted were Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the Beast, and Jack and the Beanstalk. This is a world I would love to visit again. There were several characters whose lives I would love to explore further.

About the Book:

Her kingdom is under attack. His brother is her betrothed.

Princess Marion Thornhill and her lady-in-waiting Emma flee their kingdom of Brecker with the hope of reaching the princess’s betrothed and garnering help against attacking forces. But along the way, Emma reveals her true loyalties. Left stranded in the woods during a spring storm, Marion crosses paths with her betrothed’s brother Rupert, a prince cursed by an angered fairy. Rupert helps Marion - but can they get help for Brecker before it’s too late? And what about their entangled hearts?

Spring has sprung with these seven swoony sweet retellings. Each novella finds its happily ever after amidst themes of rebirth, hope, and new life. Each book is fully independent, and they can be read in any order. Peaflower is a retelling of The Princess and the Pea featuring tropes such as an evil lady-in-waiting and a princess with an animal sidekick. 

Want to learn more about the author Jessica A. Tanner? Check out my recent interview with Jessica at the following link: https://bloomingwithbooks.blogspot.com/2025/05/interview-with-jessica-turner-author-of.html    

Guinevere and the Three Brothers ~ Review

Guinevere and the Three Brothers

Once in a Wood #3

By Sienna Peake

I loved how this book retold Goldilocks and the Three Bears in a Regency setting. Guinevere Goldwyn must find a husband now or face being forced to accept her stepfather's choice for her. In an attempt to help Guinevere find a match, her mother arranges a visit to a distant cousin in Yorkshire who just happens to have three eligible sons. But Guinevere refuses to settle for anything less than love. Is there a brother who is just right for her? But after several unsuccessful London seasons, she's just about given up hope of catching any man's eye. 

I really enjoyed this book. Guinevere's interactions with the three Morley brothers provide a definite nod to the tale on which it was inspired. There is a scene with jam that is perfectly reimagined for this retelling - I love it! Of course, I now need to try the featured jam. This is a sweet and clean story that is suitable for readers aged twelve and up.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectation but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

In a manor in Yorkshire lived three brothers near a wood...

Despite several unsuccessful London seasons, Guinevere Goldwyn is determined to marry for love or not at all, no matter what her stepfather insists. A surprise trip to visit distant relatives in Yorkshire may be Guinevere's last chance at finding a match of her own, but when her attempts at courtship with the first two Morley brothers utterly fail and the third brother seems hopelessly out of reach, what is she to do? Guinevere must find the courage to reach for what she truly wants if she is to find her own happily ever after.

Guinevere and the Three Brothers is a sweet, clean Regency romance inspired by the fairy tale Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It is the third book in the Regency fairy tale retellings series Once in a Wood. Each book in the series is a stand-alone work, and the stories can be enjoyed in any order.


Once in a Wood series--Where fairy tale forests meet Regency romance

Pearl and the Baker - inspired by Hansel & Gretel

Rosalyn and the Wolf - inspired by Little Red Riding Hood

Guinevere and the Three Brothers - inspired by Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Hannah and the Nightingale - inspired by The Nightingale

Interview with author Madeline Kersbergen

Today, I am sharing a fun interview with Madeline Kersbergen, the author of the recently released Daylily. 

Madeline, thank you for taking the time to give us a glimpse into you and your writing.

1) Who is your favorite comfort read author? 

Emilie Loring, hands down. She wrote romance with a touch of suspense around the same time as Georgette Heyer, Grace Livingston Hill, and Agatha Christie. Her characters were Bright Young Things in settings that were contemporary when the books were written. Reading her books is like enjoying a cold drink on a hot day, and I come away feeling that good will triumph and hope will prevail.

I'll have to check her out. I've never heard of her before.

2) If you could share a cup of tea (or coffee) with anyone, who would it be? 

I would love to have a cup of tea with C.S. Lewis - the first fantasy author I loved. Shout out to 3rd-grade Madeline, who absolutely devoured The Chronicles of Narnia! 

Those are such good books.

3) What is one book you would recommend that everyone read? 

This isn't fiction, but Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman is a book that has significantly impacted my relationship with the media, including social media. It was written in the Age of Television, but the author's message is even more applicable now, in the Age of Internet. 

Sounds interesting.

4) Who is your favorite character in your book?

 It's a tie between Lily and Henry. I love them both so much. Pinches their cheeks 

5) Do you plan for Daylily to be part of a storyworld/series? I loved the characters and wouldn't mind visiting them again. 

Thank you! I have some inklings of stories to be set in that world, and Lord Hee-nam and Lady Ae-ra totally deserve their own prequel. That being said, it might be a while before those stories come to fruition. 

I loved their characters and can totally see a prequel with the few hints you dropped into the story about their background.

6) What did you most enjoy when writing Daylily? 

I loved having Lily unravel the lies she believed about herself and bringing her to a place where she could accept the truth instead. I also enjoyed slipping in a couple of references to events from the Bible. 

7) Did you learn anything about daylilies while writing this book? 

I learned more about daylilies in terms of where they grow and what colors you can find, but I had already learned the pivotal information about daylilies (no spoilers!) from the Matched series, a dystopian trilogy by Allie Condie. 

8) What one question would you like to be asked, and how would you answer it? 

What's up with the Korean characters? I love Korea! I lived in Seoul for 10 years, working as an English teacher. My first attempts at writing novels were original Korean dramas (Kdramas) written in English. I plan to revisit those attempts, so keep an eye out for them if you also love Kdramas! 

Thank you again for the interview, Meagan! It's been a lot of fun to answer your questions.

Thank you, Madeline. I enjoyed learning more about you and Daylily. 

About the Book:

Amid tragedy and betrayal, will Daylily find her true worth?

Daylily, the undeniably beautiful princess of Blumen, is unprepared when her family is betrayed. Finding herself thrust into a role she never expected to take, Lily must dig beyond the beauty she was taught to treasure and find the strength to meet the challenges she faces.

To Kiss a Knight ~ Review

To Kiss a Knight

Best Laid Plans #2

By Grace Hitchcock

Vivienne Poppy is running away. She has no choice in the matter, not when her family is about to marry her off to the most deplorable of men. Of course, she didn't expect to be abducted by a highwayman. Nor did she anticipate having her funds stolen. 

Sebastian Larkby didn't think he would abduct a lady while in service for the crown, but he couldn't leave her in the company of the man he had just relieved of money and letters. He also didn't expect Vivienne to be so determined to escape him, to the point of putting herself in danger. He's even more shocked to learn that she has assumed the name of his nonexistent wife, Lady Larkby. When his grandmother hears about this, Sebastian has no choice but to convince Vivienne to play the role of his wife for his dying grandmother's sake.

But when you first attempt to deceive, you open a whole unexpected mess of complications. Now Sebastian and Vivienne have to deal with the mess they have created without falling in love. How does one break the news to your beloved grandmother who rallied from death's door because she learned you were married?  Breaking grandma's heart is the least of their worries. Enter the evil relatives who bring a whole host of problems with them. Yes, they are truly evil. They are the kind that, if you know they are coming, you pack up, move to a different country, and don't leave a forwarding address, and for good measure, add a moat around your house and fill it with sharks to be sure they don't decide to make themselves at home. I would also play the Jaws theme song, but Vivienne and Sebastian don't have this as an option. They have to deal with the problem.

Overall, this was a good read, and one that, reading the first book in the series, is not necessary to fully enjoy To Kiss a Knight. It is a clean read with a Regency setting. And I loved Vivienne's character; she had determination, kindness, and spunk in abundance.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

You can purchase a copy of the book from Amazon at the following link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0825448107?

About the Book:

When everything is going right, something must go wrong

Vivienne Poppy's plans are working out quite well. She's run away from her family and the prospect of a horrid marriage of convenience and plans to spend her time writing under her pseudonym, Lady Larkby. Until she discovers the old Larkby title is not as dead as she thought.

Yeoman of the Guard and recently knighted Sir Sebastian Larkby is stunned to discover a Lady Larkby that he does not remember marrying. Suddenly, Vivienne is left with a choice: relinquish her pen name, expose her true identity, and break Sebastian's dying grandmother’s heart—or feign marriage to Sebastian to keep the title and fulfill the old woman's wishes.

This witty novel from award-winning author Grace Hitchcock is filled with scandal, mishap, and just the right amount of romance.

"A rollicking Regency with romance, danger, humor, and unexpected plot twists you won't want to miss!"
—Crystal Caudill, Christy Award–winning author of Written in Secret