Fiction Friday: Twenty-Five 5-Star Reads from 2025

Fiction Friday: 

Twenty-Five 5-Star Reads of 2025

In addition to being an author, I’m a voracious reader, and I come by it naturally. Both parents were avid readers with impressive book collections. When my mom passed away, I had to figure out what to do with twelve bookcases full of books! (I might have taken a few of them). Despite being busy, I make time to read, even if it’s only one chapter before bed. The qualities a book must have for me to give it five stars are: I have a serious book hangover when I’m finished, I have no interest in starting another book, I closely related to the characters and can’t get them out of my head days or even weeks later, and I know I will read the book again. And again. And possibly again.

Consider giving one or more of these a try. (Please note the purchase links are affiliate links, and I receive a small commission should you make a purchase.)

Uncharted Mercy by Keely Brooke Keith: A marriage of convenience uncovers secrets that spark a battle for inheritance, family, and a chance at love. https://amzn.to/4oG7zuT

One Night in Beniton Hall by Iris Lim: When an arranged compromise goes awry, whom can Heather

count upon to come to her rescue? https://amzn.to/3LuXna4

Calming the Storm by Melanie D. Snitker: A marriage of convenience isn't exactly what she had in mind. https://amzn.to/4hTUzPN

Palmer Girl by Dawn Klinge: Elizabeth’s heart longs to push against those boundaries, so what’s holding her back? https://amzn.to/3Xog1mk

The Snowman’s Sweetheart by Shanna Hatfield: Will a winter whirlwind romance result in a forever love? https://amzn.to/47uJVLQ

No Leaves in Autum by Terri Wangard: She may gain a family after all. https://amzn.to/3Lt7ZGl

Hopeful Cowboy by Elana Johnson: He's struggling to step into his new role as a single dad. She's trying to keep her ranch operational and her heart intact. Can Nate and Ginger build forever out of heartache? https://books2read.com/u/bzx8KE

A Song of Deliverance by Donna Wichelman: Will Anna’s heart soften towards Stefan? Will Stefan prove himself worthy of Anna’s affections? Each will have to risk everything to attain what they want and need most—love. https://amzn.to/4qOfKXl

Lillian’s Letters by Marlene Bierworth: The magic seemed to be working for the newcomer, until she met the man whom she’d been corresponding with face to face. https://amzn.to/4hTPYwY

Seeking Simon by Susan Sloan: When a mysterious stranger claims to be her fiancé, the fight to save her land turns into a battle for her heart. https://amzn.to/49b54Mm

A Lawman for Lisette by Teresa Slack: Can this independent western woman trust her no-nonsense, rugged lawman and find love? Will her heart forever be lost in Willow Wood? https://amzn.to/4p3ZD6t

Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife by Misty M. Beller: Will the love growing between them be enough to survive Jess's secret and lead them to the justice Gil seeks, or will her father’s greed destroy everything they've risked their lives to protect? https://amzn.to/4oviJCy

Chasing Shadows by Lynn Austin: Three women whose lives are instantly changed when the Nazis

invade the neutral Netherlands, forcing each into a complicated dance of choice and consequence. https://books2read.com/u/baAnz8

Tex by Liz Isaacson: Can Tex and Abigail rekindle their old flame, or will the issue of land ownership come between them? https://amzn.to/496zEGV

The Pastor’s Reckless Bride by Malory Ford: as other needs arise that the two of them are uniquely equipped to meet, their greatest challenge may just be their greatest strength. https://amzn.to/4qM90cR

A Reckoning in Defiance by Heather Blanton: She ruled Tent Town with an iron will. Now, she returns to Defiance with nothing but guilt—and a fragile hope for forgiveness. https://amzn.to/3LuYqqw

Love Somebody Like You by Carolyn Miller: For Lexi Franklin, returning to Trinity Lakes feels a little like running home with her tail between her legs. https://amzn.to/47OsS6j

Love’s True Measure by Lori DeJong: A guilt-ridden woman with everything to gain, a self-made man with everything to lose, and a Father who desires to show them their true measure is more than they could ever imagine. https://amzn.to/4nPlwW6

A Pony Express Romance by Misty M. Beller: Only the fearless ride for the Express. https://amzn.to/4nRiIrF

Journey of the Heart by Johnnie Alexander: One valiant woman. One guarded man. A shared mission—and a love neither expected. https://amzn.to/4p4rrYA

Lance: Gun for Hire by Heather Blanton: He lost everything. Now he has nothing left to lose. https://amzn.to/4owMh2V

Patched Together by Kim Garee: healing leads to new journeys in faith and love amidst changing and

charming seasons. https://books2read.com/u/bPOnQl

A Place to Belong by Heidi Gray McGill: Some fresh starts begin in silence… others begin with a
baby’s cry. https://amzn.to/4ot6XbR

The Red Siren by MaryLu Tyndall: A Woman Pirate desperate to save her family. . .An ambitious Naval Officer longing for a promotion . . .Is their love strong enough to defy the noose? https://amzn.to/4hO34f3

An Unexpected Catch by Abbey Downey: Can she count on the pitcher to save her dream, or will his secret destroy their futures? https://amzn.to/485vjTa

Talkshow Thursday: Meet Karen Ferguson

Talkshow Thursday: 

Meet Karen Ferguson

I'm pleased to welcome author Karen Ferguson to my blog for the first time. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and get to know her.

When did you know you wanted to be an author?

Since I was in elementary school, pouring over my older sister’s daytime drama manuscript. Every day, I would eagerly run home from school to read the newest pages added to her 100+ page volume. It’s one of the things that helped develop a love for reading within me, and ultimately a desire to write. That desire stayed with me into adulthood, although I didn’t do much with it until later in life.

How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?

Four books so far. My first was a self-published devotional. I consider that one my “test drive” into publishing. I recently celebrated the third book release in the 7-part Questions for Kids series, which is published through Ambassador International. My favorite so far is Book 3, titled Guess Why God Made the Rainbow. I suppose part of it is the natural progression of growth as an author and in the publishing sphere. But I also did a few things differently this time. I used gentle rhythmic text and onomatopoeia, which makes it fun to read and more lighthearted, even though it’s dealing with a serious subject.

What does your writing space look like?

My space is very humble. Our family transplanted from the Pacific NW to Tennessee several years ago,

and when we did my husband and I downsized to a smaller home (but more land, thankfully). This puts me writing and working at my standing desk in our bedroom. Usually with two fur-babies on the bed beside me.

Tell us about your road to publication.

I’ve written in many forms for more than 20 years, often in the corporate and non-profit sector and wanted to publish for at least ten years before jumping to self-publish a devotional in 2017. Several years later I stepped out in faith to find a traditional publisher. By God’s goodness, I connected with Ambassador International for my children’s book series and recently launched the third book in what will now be the 7-part Questions for Kids series.

How do you come up with story lines?

For my children’s books, I start with prayer, and spend time reading the Bible, then brainstorm a story thread that would prompt another “question” for Lucy that naturally segues into the Bible account I cover in the book. My goal is to find that just right question that connects the Bible account to Lucy’s life, centering on a topic most kids can relate to. My mission is to make the Bible come alive for kids! I want them to see their circumstances through the lens of God’s Word, learning to make real-life connections to the Bible.

What draws you to the time period about which you write?

My love for God’s Word, and my desire to help build biblical literacy in this next generation, through colorful, entertaining, and biblically accurate stories.

Why do you write in your particular genre?

I have a background in K-8 education, and for a long time considered working with children a calling. I was blessed to raise my girls as a stay-at-home mom (mostly), and now find so much joy in spending time with my growing tribe of dearly loved grandchildren. To me, writing children’s books is an extension of what I feel called to: impacting this next generation.

What is your next project?

Book 4 in the Questions for Kids series! This book series follows the Bible chronologically, so this next one will be about a man called away from his family, on a journey to a new land far away. Can you guess what it’s about?

Excerpt: Guess Why God Made the Rainbow

“The boat was built. The animals had come. Now, Noah’s family waited. The people made fun of them because they didn’t believe in God, and they didn’t believe the rain would come. Then one day, it happened! Noah, his wife, his three sons, and their three wives finally saw God’s word come true in the form of cool sprinkles misting their faces. It was what they had been waiting for. Rain! They scrambled to get inside the boat.

Drip-drop. Rat-a-tat. Splatter.

The light rain quickly turned into a violent storm.”

You can get your copy of Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon, or wherever books are sold. 

Amazon: https://amzn.to/47tzcBn

About Karen:

Karen Ferguson is a writer, host of the 5-Minute Parenting podcast, and the author of the Questions for Kids picture book series. A lover of words, family, animals, and Jesus, Karen is a passionate advocate for truth that transforms lives. Her faith in God and background in K-8 education inspires her mission to share God’s unchangeable truths and His unchanging love with the next generation. She wants every child to know their life matters.

You can connect with Karen on social media and sign up for her free newsletter to be the first to know about special events, book updates, freebies and giveaways.

Website: https://www.karenferg.com/
Facebook: illuminatecommunications.org
Instagram: karenfergusonauthor
Newsletter sign up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/n5z4p0

Photo credits:

Author and books images: courtesy of Karen Ferguson

Desktop: Pixabay/Jess Bailey

Children: Pixabay/Alicja

Blog Tour: Gazing into Darkness

About the Book

Book: Gazing into Darkness

Author: Heidi Glick

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: August 12, 2025

Instead of moving closer to his girlfriend, Chance McPherson gets dumped and relocated to Cincinnati—farther from his dreams and closer to his shameful past. Stacey Sanderson is excited to finally secure a role in law enforcement, like the rest of her family, especially as an EPA CID agent, where she can protect God’s creation.

On the job, Stacey’s perfectionism and faith rub Chance the wrong way, while his antics and wisecracks irritate Stacey. When federal employees who worked an old case with Stacey start dying, Chance becomes concerned, and not just because Stacey is his partner. Stacey senses a closeness between them but has vowed not to get involved with men in law enforcement and especially not someone who doesn’t share her faith.

The anniversary of the case is creeping closer. Time is running out. Can Chance and Stacey stop the person who is out to kill her before it’s too late?

 Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Heidi Glick writes romantic suspense and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and

Faith, Hope, and Love Christian Writers. She has an eye for detail and includes law enforcement particulars in her stories, grounding the reader in scenes. She’s attended Writers’ Police Academy and the Hancock County (Ohio) Sheriff Citizen’s Academy to ensure accuracy of story details. Though she grew up in Southern California, Heidi now considers rural Northwest Ohio her home.

More from Heidi

My interest in science probably began at an early age with my love of animals. When I was younger, I rode horses. In high school, I became interested in science and learning more about God’s creation. When I attended college, I majored in biology and became active in Cedarville Christian University’s Earth Stewardship Organization—aimed at promoting stewardship of God’s creation from a Christian perspective. Years later, I worked for a government contractor onsite at the Cincinnati EPA. After a serious conversation with coworkers, I developed an idea for a story involving EPA CID agents. I wanted a story that contained a branch of law enforcement not typically featured in Christian suspense stories. Also, I wanted a series with the same characters throughout, sort of like Castle or Bones. Additionally, I wanted the theme of redemption throughout. While the story involves the environment, the book is not meant to be political. I hope readers enjoy the novel and benefit from the message. Something fun about the book is the artwork. Like the covers for Terri Blackstock’s If I Run series, the covers for Queen City Heroes form one larger image when side by side.

By the way, I still love animals, and my elderly cat Daisy was the inspiration for the heroine’s feline.

Interview with Heidi

Can you share a real-life event that inspired your writing?

I’m trying to think of how to answer this question without giving away anything. I worked in one of the buildings mentioned in the story. An event in the story was inspired by a conversation I had with coworkers.

What was the best money you spent as a writer?

The best money I spent as a writer was joining American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). ACFW provides education, support, and fellowship for Christian writers. I found a critique group through ACFW, and I was able to grow as a writer. I’m still a member and can attribute most of my writing friendships to ACFW.

How are your characters like you? Different?

Stacey is like me in that she likes her veggies. I have my mom to thank for that. I’m different from Stacey in that I don’t work out as much as she does these days because it’s hard when juggling writing and family life. I try to walk daily and swim when possible. Also, Stacey is a neat freak, and I generally have a messier desk like Chance. Also, like Chance, I like chili dogs from a certain restaurant in Cincinnati.

How do you come up with story lines/book topic?

For faith arcs, I’m influenced by what God is teaching me or a nugget of truth gleaned from a recent sermon. For story ideas, I think it depends. With my last book, Hold for Release, I asked readers what they would like to see more of, and they said a married couple. Because I write redemptive themes, I had a married couple whose marriage is in trouble. And then because I write suspense, I had to weave the plot around the characters. How would suspense tie in with a failing marriage? For my next story, Kalamity Cabin, set in the fictional town of Kalamity, Ohio, I have decided to include an ODNR officer. I learned about ODNR at my local citizens sheriff’s academy. Since the release of Gazing into Darkness, I find I like writing about different areas of law enforcement.

What is one thing you wish you could do?

If I could do anything, I would pause time, so I could make more time for all the things in my life. I like writing, but I am also an editor. Plus, I recently started homeschooling my kids. It would be nice to have more time.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 8

Simple Harvest Reads, November 9 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 10

Artistic Nobody, November 11 (Author Interview)

Pause for Tales, November 11

Texas Book-aholic, November 12

Guild Master, November 13 (Author Interview)

Betti Mace, November 14

Fiction Book Lover, November 15 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 16

Books Less Travelled, November 17 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 18

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, November 19 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, November 20

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, November 21 (Author Interview)

Alyssa Madjeski, November 21

Giveaway

 To celebrate her tour, Heidi is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/3d093/gazing-into-darkness-celebration-tour-giveaway

Movie Monday: Confidential Agent

Movie Monday: Confidential Agent

Based on the Graham Greene novel of the same name, Confidential Agent was released in November, 1945 and stars Charles Boyer, Lauren Bacall, and Peter Lorre. According to Greene’s autobiography, Ways of Escape, he wrote the manuscript in six weeks after determining that to be successful, he needed to “write another entertainment” to provide for his family. He also stated that he used Benzedrine (brand name for amphetamines) twice a day to increase his writing pace.

Having just come back from Mexico, Graham wrote the plot around the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). You’d think Hollywood have had enough of war movies, but they jumped on the publication. The screenplay was written by Robert Buckner and stays true to the novel.

Boyer, who by this time had starred in dozens of movies, including silent films in the 1920s, played a

former concert pianist and composer who travels to England as a confidential agent of Spanish Republicans to purchase coal or deny it to the Fascist rebels. On the ocean crossing, he meets a “bored, rich girl” and daughter of the man which whom he’ll be negotiating, played by Lauren Bacall in only her third movie.

The characters miss their train and decide to travel together by car. Their journey is fraught with foibles and danger, and the pair eventually get separated before coming back together for their happily ever after.

Reviews of the movie are mixed, with one site commenting that “Boyer conveys more than a touch of Denard’s world-weariness, but the character is much less anxious and despairing than he is in the novel. Bacall’s performance was panned across the board, giving an “awful performance—playing a bored English aristocrat with a flat New York accent and a voice devoid of inflection. The actress would later say in an interview, “To case me as an aristocratic English girl was more than a stretch. It was dementia.” Lorres does his usual masterful job of playing a villain.

Despite the poor reviews and slow pace, I enjoyed the movie and think it’s worth watching. I learned a bit about the Spanish Civil War, and it was fun to see Lauren Bacall in the early days of her career. I never tire of watching Peter Lorre.

Have you seen this classic?

__________________________

A Lesson in Love

He thinks he’s too old. She thinks she’s too young. Can these teachers learn that love defies all boundaries?

Born and raised in London, Isobel Turvine knows nothing about farming, but after most of the students in her school evacuate during Operation Pied Piper, she’s left with little to do. Then her friend Margery talks her into joining the Women’s Land Army, and she finds herself working the land at a manor home in Yorkshire that’s been converted to a boys’ school. A teacher at heart, she is drawn to the lads, but the handsome yet stiff-necked headmaster wants her to stick to farming.

Left with an arm that barely works from the last “war to end all wars,” Gavin Emerson agrees to take on the job of headmaster when his school moves from London to Yorkshire, but he’s saddled with the quirky manor owner, bickering among his teachers, and a gaggle of Land Army girls who have turned the grounds into a farm. When the group’s blue-eyed, raven-haired leader nearly runs him down in a car, he admonishes her to stay in the fields, but they are thrown together at every turn. Can he trust her not to break his heart?

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/3YHgUb0

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Confidential_Agent (movie)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0037610/
https://www.cineaste.com/summer2011/from-the-archives-confidential-agent
https://www.tcm.com/watchtcm/titles/1870
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Confidential_Agent (novel)

Photo credits:

Movie poster: Warner Brothers

Movie Still: Warner Brothers

Blog Tour: The Seed of Faith

About the Book

Book: The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle

Author: Daniel Petronelli

Genre: Childrens Christian, Religion & Spirituality, Holiday Celebration, Children’s Chapter Book, Inspirational, Action & Adventure

Release Date: October, 2021

In the small foothill village of Shiloh on a stormy Christmas Eve, a group of children find themselves lost in a powerful storm. When a chance encounter with a kind stranger presents itself, their faith is put to the test as they discover the true meaning of Christmas, learn valuable life lessons, and experience the transformative power of just one tiny seed: The Seed of Faith.

 

This unforgettable, multi-award-winning story will inspire readers of all ages to believe in miracles and the enduring presence of God in their lives.

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Dan Petronelli was born and raised in Brockton, Massachusetts. He currently divides his time with his

wife between West Bridgewater, Massachusetts, and Stuart, Florida.

He is a strong member of his local community and has served as a Christian worship leader.

Dan Petronelli participated in Smith Magazine’s Six-Word Memoir contest, and his memoir was selected and later published by HarperCollins.

When not with his family and friends, he can be found on the first tee … asking for another mulligan.

Dan found a message in a bottle when he was a young boy tinkering on a rocky shoreline. It was a profound spiritual message that he has kept and still treasures today.

This inspired story was written as a cherished Christmas gift for his family, and it is his hope that the SEED OF FAITH will also bring joy and continue to grow in the hearts of readers around the world.

More from Daniel

The Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle is an inspired story about the power of faith. I initially wrote this inspirational story for my family as a Christmas gift. The story emphasizes that even a “ tiny seed “ planted with faith can bring miracles.  It is my hope that the Seed of Faith: A Christmas Miracle will continue to grow in the hearts of readers around the world.

Interview

What is your favorite thing about being a writer?

My favorite thing about being a writer is creating stories that uplift and inspire others, reminding people that faith and love can change everything.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

One of the most surprising things I learned was how deeply a simple story can move people—sometimes the smallest moments of faith can leave the greatest impact.

Can you share a real-life event that inspired your writing?

When I was a young boy, I found a message in a bottle while praying alone on the beach. That simple discovery deeply strengthened my Christian faith and became a lasting inspiration for my spiritual journey—and ultimately for my writing.

What questions do you ask yourself when preparing to write a new book?

I ask myself what message I want to share and how the story can touch someone’s heart—will it inspire hope, strengthen faith, or remind readers of the goodness in the world?

Why do you write in your particular genre?

I write in the inspirational and faith-based genre because I want to share stories that bring hope, strengthen belief, and remind readers that God’s love can shine even in life’s most difficult moments.

Blog Stops

The Sacred Line, November 12

Simple Harvest Reads, November 13 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, November 14

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, November 15 (Author Interview)

The Mommies Reviews , November 15

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 16

Artistic Nobody, November 17 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 18

Guild Master, November 19 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 20

Fiction Book Lover, November 21 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 22

Books Less Travelled, November 23 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, November 24 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, November 25 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Pilgrim, November 25

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Visa Gift Certificate and a signed hardcover copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/3dc71/the-seed-of-faith-a-christmas-miracle-celebration-tour-giveaway

Talkshow Thursday: Clean Sweep by Julie Arduiini

Clean Sweep by Julie Arduini

Sometimes the messiest moments lead to the most miraculous grace.

After a public breakup leaves Abbi Gearheart humiliated and heartbroken, she escapes to Dogwood Creek, Tennessee, hoping to rebuild her life far from the spotlight—and even farther from athletes. With her new cleaning business and the gentle encouragement of stained-glass artist Alicia Caruso and her matchmaking family, Abbi begins to find peace in the quiet rhythms of small-town life.

Seth Chamberlin is a beloved coach, teacher, and mentor at Dogwood Creek High. His faith runs deep, but so do the wounds from a strained relationship with his father. When he meets Abbi, he’s drawn to her strength and vulnerability, but she’s made it clear that friendship is all she’s willing to offer.

A powerful sermon on forgiveness challenges them both. For Abbi, to release the pain of betrayal, and for Seth, to seek reconciliation with the father he thought he’d lost. As they walk separate paths toward healing, could God be gently sweeping them toward something more?

A tender story of grace, second chances, and the kind of love that only grows when hearts surrender.

Small-town charm and rediscovered dreams are always in season in Dogwood Creek, Tennessee.

 
The Inspiration Behind Clean Sweep

I’m beyond excited to join the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers multi-author series, alongside the talented Leah Atwood, Robin Bayne, JoAnn Durgin, Dawn Kinzer, Lisa Prysock, and Lori Soard. With a new novella releasing every other month through 2026, Clean Sweep marks my first contribution to the series, and I’ll be back with a second installment in September 2026.

This story was born from my desire to weave Ohio, my home for the past 20 years, into the charming world of Dogwood Creek, Tennessee. In my solo romances, I often spotlight Upstate New York, where I spent over three decades exploring its small towns. But when I collaborate on multi-author projects, I love bringing a touch of Ohio into the mix.

Each novella in the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series features one of six matchmakers. For Clean Sweep, I chose Alicia Caruso, the gracious hostess of the matchmaking meetings. She’s married to Luca and together they’re raising twin teen daughters, Arianna and Bella.

What made Clean Sweep especially fun to write was its blend of romance, humor, and heartfelt moments. Abbi’s journey includes laugh-out-loud scenes as she launches her cleaning business, and familiar faces from earlier books make meaningful appearances. I especially loved incorporating teens into the story—Arianna, Bella, and Grayson bring energy and depth to Abbi and Seth’s world. Having mentored teens for years, I find joy in writing characters from this vibrant age group.

Of course, matchmaking plays a central role. Alicia leads a prayer group that subtly nudges Abbi and Seth toward each other. While some matchmakers are more assertive, Alicia’s gentle approach adds warmth and grace to the unfolding romance.

At its heart, Clean Sweep is also a story of forgiveness. A definition I heard years ago stayed with me and became a guiding force for this book. Both Abbi and Seth wrestle with past wounds, Abbi from a broken engagement, and Seth from a strained relationship with his father. Writing their healing journeys challenged me personally, too.

During the writing process, I was awaiting cataract surgeries. My vision was so impaired that I often had to hold my laptop inches from my face. I’m deeply grateful to the friends who helped proofread the manuscript and catch the typos I couldn’t see. And just like my characters, I faced a moment where I had to forgive in order to move forward—using the very definition I included in the book.

Clean Sweep isn’t just Abbi and Seth’s story. It’s mine, too.

To purchase Clean Sweep: https://amzn.to/47hD08F

_________________

Julie Arduini writes small-town romances featuring Christian surrender themes and chocolate mentions. She’s the author of the series SURRENDERING HEARTS (Anchored Hearts, Repairing Hearts, +four more). Her other romance series is SURRENDERING TIME (Entrusted, Entangled, Engaged). She also co-wrote a YA/Women’s Fiction series with her daughter, SURRENDERING STINKIN’ THINKIN’ (You’re Beautiful, You’re Amazing, You’re Brilliant). Her stand-alone romances include MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN and RESTORING CHRISTMAS. In 2025 she joins Leah Atwood, Robin Bayne, JoAnn Durgin, Dawn Kinzer, Lisa Prysock and Lori Soard with the small-town romance series Dogwood Creek Matchmakers. Julie maintains a blog at http://www.juliearduini.com and https://substack.com/@juliearduini1. She resides in Ohio with her husband and daughter. Learn more by visiting her at http://linktr.ee/JulieArduini.

Photo credits:

Author image: Courtesy Julie Arduini

Carpet Cleaner: Pixabay/Steve Buissinne

Wartime Wednesday: When There's No Turkey to Be Had

Wartime Wednesday: 

When There’s No Turkey to be Had

With rationing, housewives had to get creative in preparing Thanksgiving meals for their family. Unless they raised the chicken or turkey themselves, having a full bird for the holiday was not going to happen. Some cooks turned to “variety meats (e.g. liver, brains, etc.) while other went vegetarian. Another alternative is to go with a recipe that stretched their meat amounts a LOOOONG way as this recipe from Better Meals in Wartime claims to do. Easy, delicious, and affordable.

Beef Bean Hot Pot for Six

1 pound stewing beef cut into small cubes
1 cup diced celery
1 pounded dried lima beans
3 onions, sliced
1 green pepper, minced
3 tablespoons fat
2 cups canned tomatoes
1 ½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons flour

Cover lima beans with water and soak overnight. Add more water and 1 teaspoon salt. Boil for one (10 hour or until beans are beginning to soften. Save water. Fry meat and vegetables in fat for about 10 minutes. Add flour, seasonings, and tomatoes.

Place in a large, greased casserole with beans. Cover with water from beans and add as much more as necessary. Bake in a slow oven (300 degrees) for two hours.

Fried Cornmeal

1 Cup Cornmeal
½ teaspoon salt
¾ - 1 cup water
2 tablespoons oils

Mix cornmeal and salt in a bowl until combined. Add ¾ cup water and whisk to combine. Add water by the tablespoon until batter pours from a spoon but is not watery. Heat oil in skillet (cast iron works great!). Drop tablespoons of batter and cook 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and brown.

Baked Apples

4 firm, sweet-tart apples
¼ cup brown sugar OR ¼ cup honey
1 ½ tablespoons margarine
Raisins (optional)

Wash, core, but don’t peel apples. Slice crosswise in ½ inch slices. Grease a flat backing dish. Lay the slices in the dish and sprinkle brown sugar or honey over them. Dot with bits of margarine.

Pour enough water into the dish to cover the bottom. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 15 minutes until apples are tender but not mushy. Sprinkle rains over the apples and serve warm.

___________________

The American World War II Home Front in 29 Objects

Unlike Europe the American mainland escaped physical devastation during World War II as it was not subjected to full-scale invasions. However, that didn’t mean the United States wasn’t impacted by the war. The ramifications of large economic, cultural, and societal changes forced Americans to reconsider entrenched beliefs and traditions.

Artifacts collected from across the nation tell the stories of the American people whose lives were shaped by this second “war to end all wars,” World War II.

Purchase link: https://books2read.com/u/47pLxR

Teatime Tuesday: A Love Affair with Tea

Teatime Tuesday:

A Love Affair with Tea

Many years ago, my doctor told me to take caffeine out of my diet to solve some health problems. As someone who drank LOTS of coffee, I was not happy with the mandate. However, I was paying her to be the subject matter expert, so I complied.

In search of something to replace coffee, I tried cider, but it was difficult to find out of season, and it was too sugary for my taste (I took my coffee black). Someone mentioned tea, but when I investigated, I discovered that although black tea doesn’t have as much caffeine as coffee, there is enough to cause issues. Several years passed before I learned about green tea and white tea. Both contain caffeine, but research turned up the facts that the amount is small enough for me to handle and our bodies metabolize tea differently that we do coffee, so the effect is less of a “punch” or stimulant.

I’m a happily converted tea drinker and adore green and white teas. Also a bit finicky, I purchase loose

leaves to brew.

The tea plant, an evergreen, was classified by Swedish botanist Linnaeus in 1753 as Camellia sinensis which is subdivided into two main subspecies known as Camellia sinensis sinensis, the variety originally found growing in China, and Camellia sinensis assamica, the plant that is native to India’s province of Assam. The more than 10,000 different teas founded around the world are made from different varietals of Camellia sinensis. The location, altitude where grown, climate, soil, minerals, cultivation methods, etc. all determine the color, character, and flavor of each tea.

Here are the basic types of tea:

• White tea is the most delicate because it is harvested before the plant’s leaves open and minimally processed.
• Green tea is made from the leaves and buds that have not undergone the withering and oxidation process.
• Oolong tea is partially oxidized tea that has gone through a process of elaborate transformation through withering, shaking, firing, rolling, drying, and baking.
• Pu-erh tea is the only tea defined by its geography (like “real” champaign comes from the Champaign region of France). Pu-erh comes from the Yunnan province in China and has been fermented. It is often stored underground for several years.
• Yellow tea is quite rare and is processed like green tea. However, the drying process is slower to allow the leaves to take on a yellow color.
• Black tea has been quickly and heavily oxidized. This is the strongest of the teas and has the highest amount of caffeine.

Herbal teas are not teas. They are tisanes or infusions of botannicals likes fruits, flowers, barks, herbs, mints, spices, roots, berries, and seeds.

If you haven’t tried tea, you’re in for a treat. Experiment with all of them to find your favorite. Twinings, Stash, and Harney & Sons, all offer bagged tea of good quality yet not highly expensive.

___________________

A Lesson in Love

He thinks he’s too old. She thinks she’s too young. Can these teachers learn that love defies all boundaries?

Born and raised in London, Isobel Turvine knows nothing about farming, but after most of the students in her school evacuate during Operation Pied Piper, she’s left with little to do. Then her friend Margery talks her into joining the Women’s Land Army, and she finds herself working the land at a manor home in Yorkshire that’s been converted to a boys’ school. A teacher at heart, she is drawn to the lads, but the handsome yet stiff-necked headmaster wants her to stick to farming.

Left with an arm that barely works from the last “war to end all wars,” Gavin Emerson agrees to take on the job of headmaster when his school moves from London to Yorkshire, but he’s saddled with the quirky manor owner, bickering among his teachers, and a gaggle of Land Army girls who have turned the grounds into a farm. When the group’s blue-eyed, raven-haired leader nearly runs him down in a car, he admonishes her to stay in the fields, but they are thrown together at every turn. Can he trust her not to break his heart?

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/3JghuYI  

Sources:
The New Tea Companion, Jane Pettigrew and Bruce Richardson, Benjamin Press, 2008
A Social History of Tea, Jane Pettigrew and Bruce Richardson, Benjamin Press, 2021
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_tea
https://www.britannica.com/topic/tea-beverage
https://www.londonmuseum.org.uk/blog/steeped-in-history-tea-drinking-in-britain/
https://www.stashtea.com/blogs/education/tea-types

Photo credits:

Pouring Tea: Pixabay/Pexels

Tea Plants: Pixabay/seinfuchs

Herb Tea: Pixabay/Pexels

Fiction Friday: New Releases in Christian Fiction

November 2025 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Amish Romance:
A Daughter’s Choice by Kelly S. Irvin -- Henrietta Miller loves animals—especially her goats. She wants to marry and have children someday, but right now her goal is to have her own business selling snacks made from goat's milk and goat's soaps. Against her the wishes of her father--who's also the bishop—she applies for a job as a veterinary assistant to earn money. Then newcomer Nicholas Byler snatches the job out from under her—or so it seems to Hen. Now Nicholas is treating Hen's beloved animals as if he knows more than her. Hen turns her frustrations toward expanding her business to include wool-producing goats, even while her aunt hatches matchmaking plans—with Nicholas Byler, no less. (Amish Romance from Barbour Publishing)

  Biblical:
Loss and Loyalty - Moabites by Christine Dillon -- What makes someone family—blood, love, or something more? Arielle believed she was an Israelite—until her brother confessed the truth: she was found as an infant on their doorstep in Moab. After tragedy strikes and the men of her household are snatched away, Arielle must leave the only land she’s ever known and any hope of finding her birth family to follow her adopted family to Bethlehem. (Biblical Fiction, Independently Published)

  Contemporary Romance:
Clean Sweep by Julie Arduini -- Sometimes the messiest moments lead to the most miraculous grace. A tender story of grace, second chances, and the kind of love that only grows when hearts surrender. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published) 

  Royal Runaway’s Holiday by Mandy Boerma -- Can the princess and the reporter overcome the ancient laws and royal protocol standing between them, or is heartbreak the only outcome? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

 

A Christmas in Shady Springs by Sarah Anne Crouch -- Set in the heart of small-town Arkansas, A Christmas in Shady Springs is a sweet Christian romance about love that holds fast, plans that fall apart, and grace that shines even brighter when everything else goes wrong. (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Clearing the Cowboy’s Name by Elle E. Kay -- Accused of stealing her first edition Austen. Guilty of stealing her heart. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

 

Logan’s Legacy by Susan Anne Mason -- He ran from commitment for years – until he met the one woman who made him want to stay. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Home for the Ranger by Audrey Wick -- Texas park ranger Shane Hutton must choose his future: the opportunity he’s always wanted or the family he’s always needed. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

  Under the Mistletoe by Penny Zeller -- A small-town adventure, unexpected romance, and Christmas cheer. He's a nerdy tourist needing a vacation. She's a bed and breakfast employee with a broken heart. Love is the last thing they expect to find this Christmas. (Contemporary Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

  Crime Mystery:
Eight Days Anxious by Luana Ehrlich -- When ex-con Jason Brennan takes a senator hostage, Mylas Grey has eight days to find Brennan’s missing wife and daughter. If Mylas fails, the senator will lose his life. But things are much more complicated than that. As the clock ticks down, Mylas must navigate his way through a maze of political ambition, moral corruption, and judicial misconduct, challenging his investigative skills and newfound faith, but ultimately drawing him closer to Whitney. (Crime/Mystery, Independently Published)

  General Contemporary:
Nearly Beloved by Kendra Broekhuis -- Dylan Turner’s quiet life unravels on the day of her dad’s funeral—when she finds out he’s not her biological father. Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on a cross-country journey, confronting family secrets and her own identity. (General Contemporary from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Penguin Random House]) 

Every Captive Freed by B.D. Lawrence, Shannon McNear, and Angela D. Shelton -- Three Novellas about human trafficking. This collection is one of three dealing with "brave" topics Christians often face in the world today. (General Contemporary [Novella Collection], Independently Published)

  General Historical:
Even If I Perish by Terrie Todd -- Music teacher Mary Cornish volunteers to escort a group of 15 girls from England to Canada as part of Britain’s World War II child evacuation program. All is well aboard the SS City of Benares until September 17, 1940. With a storm brewing in the North Atlantic, a German U-boat releases its torpedo and breaches the ship’s hull. Do the Nazis know ninety children are on board? Based on a miraculous true story of courage in the face of impossible odds. (Historical from Mountain Brook Ink)

  Historical Romance:
No Plan At All by Denise M. Colby -- Two strangers. One journey. A love neither expected. Sometimes the best life is the one we never planned. A tender tale of courage, redemption, and love strong enough to change the course of two hearts forever. (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

To Reveal a Reckless Love by Robin Lee Hatcher -- When love feels reckless, faith can lead the way. A story of second chances, steadfast love, and the courage to follow where God leads. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

  Romantic Suspense:
On the Edge of Trust by Patricia Bradley -- Sometimes the closer you get to justice, the deadlier it becomes. (Romantic Suspense from Revell)

Midnight Masquerade by Elle E. Kay -- Two federal agents with trust issues must infiltrate a charity masquerade ball to stop a human trafficking operation that funds terrorism. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Mac by Melanie D. Snitker -- Fame has its price—and someone’s ready to collect. As danger closes in and secrets come to light, Mac must rely on every skill, instinct, and ounce of resolve he has to protect the woman he’s realizing he can’t live without. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published) 

Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner -- Park archaeologist Violet Hoyt’s wilderness search for a missing family’s remains takes a deadly turn when a gunman mistakes her for someone else. The discovery of a grave of skulls reopens a cold case, and someone is determined to keep the truth hidden. With the help of K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his human-remains-detector dog, Wolf, Violet must find the final family member—and evade the masked man who has targeted her. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

  Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:
First Glow of Illumination by Demi Griffin -- Every ending leads to a beginning. All hope seems lost when darkness pushes against the light and the Realms are in danger of being swallowed up by the Shadow Realm. Will the Realm Warriors and Realm Binders wake up from their cultural stupor to defend what has been given them? What will it take for them to recognize their King, trust in his plan, and crown him victorious in the end? (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)

  Young Adult:
The One You See by Melissa Knight -- Seventeen-year-old Miranda’s world involves wealth and Paris vacations while Zac comes with a past she will never understand, yet in a single lapse of judgement their worlds collide, leading Miranda to faith in the God who truly sees her. (Young Adult, Independently Published)   

  Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

Christmas Rodeo Killer by Sami A. Abrams -- To catch a murderer...he’ll make himself a target. (Romantic Suspense) 

Wasted by Jerusha Agen -- She always follows the rules. But what are the rules for murder? (Romantic Suspense) 

A Riddle in the Lonesome October (A Rae Riley Mystery) by JPC Allen -- How do you survive a season of fear? (Cozy Mystery) 

Curveball on the Dance Floor by Karin Beery -- Chris can handle a curveball at the diamond. Can she handle one on the dance floor? (Contemporary Romance) 

The Accident by Kenneth Bliss -- A psi EMT responds to an accident which he discovers an "impossible" psi child and the dark agent sent to recover him. (Speculative Fiction) 

To Have and to Hold by Deb L. Brown -- When life doesn’t go according to plan, perfectionist Amelia must trade control for faith—and find joy in the beautiful mess of becoming a mother. (General Contemporary) 

Riches Beyond Measure by Mary Connealy -- When they leave the ranch in search of stolen treasure, will the spark between them survive the perils ahead? (Western Romance) 

My Heart’s for You by Jan Rae Johnson -- Kaitlyn Monroe is driven by two desires—find a job and find a soul mate. (Contemporary Romance) 

That Was Me by Rick Tester -- When you look back on your life, realize it was God... then suddenly discover why. (Mystery) 

Pretzels & Pirouettes: The Baby is the Gift by Lynn U. Watson -- Meet Clara’s great-great-great-granddaughter, motorcycle-riding, ballet-dancing Lyydi Jager. She’ll pirouette straight into your heart, and you’ll ride right into this Christmas pageant at Our Savior Church. (Contemporary Romance)