About the Book

https://colonialquills.blogspot.com/2014/07/dispelling-colonial-myths-reenactor.html

Saturday, November 7, 2026

Loyalty’s Pursuit by Shannon McNear

Allegiances divide, faith is tested, love endures. Story is set during the revolutionary war, told from the perspective of loyalists. Rob and his family are loyalists, and they own land in South Carolina, with rebels as neighbors. When the call to war came, he went as a sharpshooter for the British. Bess - who had come over from England - was a camp follower with her husband when he was killed. Rob asked her to marry him and their story begins. Very real, with so many conflicts, giving insight to the reality of war and what it takes to survive. They travel together as the war progresses. So many difficulties and feelings for each of them to handle, with times to try their faith. Loyalties to country, family, spouses are strengthened and tried - challenging what the right thing to do is and who to stand with and for. Hard to put down, has you turning the pages to see what they'll face next. Not a quick read, gives space to the conflicts and also shows how people from many countries fought for this country.

#LoyaltysPursuit #ShannonMcNear #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #ChristianHistoricalFiction #WildHeartBooks

I received this book free from the author and CelebrateLit. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

About the Book

Book: Loyalty’s Pursuit

Author: Shannon McNear

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: October 13, 2026

She needs a husband to survive. Right now, a wife is the last thing he wants.

August 1780. After the Battle of Camden leaves British camp follower Bess Eaton widowed, expecting a child, and stranded in enemy territory, she faces two impossible choices: a return to an England that offers her nothing…or marriage to a stranger before the army marches on without her.

Backcountry loyalist Rob MacFarlane has already buried a wife and son and has no intention of marrying again at this moment. But he can’t ignore the vulnerable widow in his path. What begins as an act of duty quickly becomes something far more complicated when he offers Bess protection—and a name.

As war rages and the British cause begins to crumble, their fragile alliance is tested at every turn. Loyalties fracture. Faith is questioned. And the lines between enemy and neighbor blur. To survive, Rob must decide what allegiance truly costs—and Bess must choose whether she can trust not only the man she married…but the God she’s never fully known.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Transplanted to the far north after more than two decades in the Deep South, Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. She’s the author of twenty-one novels and novellas, not all of them in print, but her favorite roles are retired military wife, pastor’s wife, mom-of-many, mother-in-law, and grammie. When not cooking, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, hanging out with her grandbabies and basking in the beauty of the northern prairies.

More from Shannon

I’m so honored to be part of yet another Celebrate Lit tour! This story especially is near and dear to my heart, because it was my very first long historical after writing fantasy for decades, the book I still had in process when I submitted the proposal for my first novella, Defending Truth, and the one which gave me the courage to try that story (and genre) to begin with.

The first draft of this story took five years to complete, in between other projects and real life. It was a hard sell to start with, I knew, being set within the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution but from the British and Loyalist viewpoint. Still, it eventually netted me both of my agents (Defending Truth’s RITA® nomination didn’t hurt there, either) while garnering interest from various editors—but didn’t actually sell until last summer. That means this story languished for more than 10 years—and then the Lord Himself practically dropped this contract in my lap.

The first story of how the concept came to me can be found here:

It was on my heart from the beginning to portray the romance, such as it is, in a rather unconventional way—something closer to what I imagine real life must have been for such a situation. And I deliberately steered away from the usual flowery declarations of love between my main couple, while hoping to present them in such a way that the reader has no doubt by the end of the story that they do absolutely care for each other. My dear editor with Wild Heart Books helped me shape and refine the characters and story from what might have been a more straightforward historical fiction read into more of what a historical romance reader might expect. I hope those expectations are now met, but also that my readers also come away with a fresh appreciation for how our country came to be.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 27
Holly’s Book Corner, October 28
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 28
Inkwell Inspirations, October 29
Betti Mace, October 30
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 30
Texas Book-aholic, October 31
For Him and My Family, November 1
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 2
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 3
Pause for Tales, November 4
Devoted To Hope, November 4
Jeanette’s Thoughts , November 5
Maureen’s Musings, November 6
Books You Can Feel Good About, November 7
Lyssa Loves Books, November 8
Simple Harvest Reads, November 8 (Guest Review from Donna)
Cover Lover Book Review, November 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Shannon 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://gleam.io/AJy7n/loyaltys-pursuit-celebration-tour-giveaway

My reviews

Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Defiant Ones: Abigail Adams

Marvelous story about an amazing woman, married to John Adams, who played such an important part in the freedom of our country. Smart lady! She held her own with others who were forming our country and was skilled in running businesses and investments. She was also an important person in our country's history; one you would rarely hear about. Well told, keeps you turning the pages.

The Defiant Ones - Immerse Yourself

Eight fearless women. One fight for freedom. 🇺🇸

They risked everything for a nation not yet born. Now their extraordinary stories come to life!

🎧 LISTEN to the thrilling, dramatized Defiant Ones podcast series.

📚 READ the complete series of expanded novelettes by USA Today bestselling author Heather Blanton, packed with bonus content!

Their courage changed history. Discover their stories today!

🎧 Listen: https://www.washingtontimes.com/defiant-ones/

📖 Read: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H87TY3HT

Some of the greatest stories that you never knew!

#AbigailAdams #HeatherBlanton #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #USRevolutionFoundingHistory #ChristianShortReads #BeautifullyFlawedProductions #DefiantOnes @HeatherBlanton

I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My reviews

Christmas 2026 Kickoff with the Programming Team

Thursday, October 29, 2026

Great American Pure Flix - multiple releases this month (October 2026)

Our favorite channel for Christmas movies and series. A channel you can feel good about. You don't have to check the rating, and you won't feel dirty for watching. There's always something good to watch. Some of our favorite actors are at home on this channel.

The greatest lineup of Christmas movie premieres in one season.

A Second Chance Christmas

Premiere Date: Thursday, October 8 on Great American Pure Flix

Starring: Candace Cameron Bure, Jonathan Scarfe

Description: After five years, divorced parents Anna and James reunite with their adult children for Christmas, only to find an unexpected ice storm may give their love story a second chance.

Pure Flix Page: https://www.pureflix.com/a-second-chance-christmas

Preview: A Second Chance Christmas | Preview | Starring Candace Cameron Bure and Jonathan Scarfe

Trailer: A Second Chance Christmas | Trailer | Starring Candace Cameron Bure and Jonathan Scarfe

Silver Bells at Christmas

Premiere Date: Thursday, October 15 on Great American Pure Flix

Starring: Laura Osnes, Ryan McPartlin, Chuck Wicks, Taylor Kalupa, Julia Reilly and Tanya Christiansen

Description: When Ginny fights to save her late mother’s beloved Christmas shop, a determined buyer and the return of her first love force her to choose between holding onto the past and opening her heart to a new future.

Pure Flix Page: https://www.pureflix.com/silver-bells-at-christmas

Preview: Silver Bells at Christmas | Preview | Stream Thurs. October 15 on Great American Pure Flix

Trailer: Silver Bells at Christmas | Trailer | Stream Thurs. October 15 on Great American Pure Flix

A Christmas Prayer Tradition

Premiere Date: Thursday, October 22 on Great American Pure Flix
Starring: Shae Robins and Christopher Russell
Description: As Natalie prepares to launch her new children’s book, a family’s quiet mission to answer the prayers of neighbors reminds Bellford Falls that some of God’s greatest works begin with simple acts of faith and kindness.
Pure Flix Page: https://www.pureflix.com/a-christmas-prayer
Preview: A Christmas Prayer Tradition | Preview | Stream Thurs. October 22 on Great American Pure Flix
Trailer: A Christmas Prayer Tradition | Trailer | Stream Thurs. October 22 on Great American Pure Flix

A Very Arctic Christmas

Premiere Date: Thursday, October 29 on Great American Pure Flix

Starring: Jill Wagner and Cameron Mathison

Description: When a father-daughter Christmas cruise leaves them stranded in the Arctic, they must rely on a spirited wildlife conservationist to guide them home, turning a holiday mishap into an unforgettable journey of family, wonder, and unexpected romance.

Pure Flix Page: https://www.pureflix.com/a-very-arctic-christmas

Preview: A Very Arctic Christmas | Preview | Stream Thurs. October 29 on Great American Pure Flix

Trailer: A Very Arctic Christmas | Trailer | Stream Thurs. October 29 on Great American Pure Flix

Great American Pure Flix is your streaming home for movies and series that celebrate and honor faith, family, and country.

Enjoy Original movies and series, heartwarming romances, dramas, inspiring stories of faith, kids’ programming, and America’s favorite Christmas destination

Follow and tag us on Instagram: Pure Flix (@greatamericanpureflix) • Instagram photos and videos
Follow and tag us on Facebook: Great American Pure Flix (@GreatAmericanPureFlix) • Facebook

Join today: https://signup.pureflix.com/plans?promo=momentum-christmas

About Great American Christmas:

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Join Great American Christmas 2026 all season long for heartwarming romantic comedies, compelling dramas, powerful journeys of faith, and beloved talent on Great American Pure Flix.

Christmas as It’s Meant to Be!

Great American Christmas | 2026 Schedule!

Website: Link

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card + 3-month temp. Great American Pure Flix subscription (Note: One winner will be chosen randomly from comments by 11/04/26. In order to submit I will need full name and email address. You will not be spammed.)

#GreatAmericanChristmasMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

IG: @greatamericanpureflix FB: Great American Pure Flix

Disclosure:

Many thanks to Great American Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

The Ties That Bind (A Story of Grace book 1) by Jane Bayly Vaughan

One side of me longs to rebel against the submission I am called to as a woman and wife. Another side finds fulfilment as Richard’s wife and the mother of his children living under his protection.

Very moving. Interesting story getting to know Grace and her family. It's difficult to really know your spouse before you marry and know how they'll be under changing circumstances. But there's commitment. And your new family takes a place in your heart as well as your own that you came from and the one you make together. Very well written, easy to feel the difficulties, challenges and all of the relationships, things that make us who we are. You can never know all the paths that you will have to walk. Heart-wrenching at times, but full of strength. These people become imprinted on your heart and you want to learn more about their future. It fills you up.

#TheTiesThatBind #JaneBaylyVaughan #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #BritishHistoricalLiterature #IndianOrchardPress

I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

About the Book

Book: The Ties That Bind

Author: Jane Bayly Vaughan

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release Date: April 14, 2026

In 1830s Cornwall, Grace Bayly faces unimaginable events that threaten the survival of her family. Her father and half of her large family are an ocean away and her mother and remaining siblings are poised to follow. As hardships close in, hopes of a new beginning grow distant. She must summon fortitude borne of love and sacrifice to hold her family together. Amid the unyielding grip of loss and grief, Grace steels herself to persist as she faces the ultimate challenge that threatens to break her.

Will Grace find the strength she needs to ensure her family survives?

A poignant tale of loyalty, resilience, and the enduring bonds that shape a woman’s courage when everything she cherishes is at stake.

Inspired by real people and events.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Jane’s love of God and family permeates her life, including her passion to share stories rooted in genealogy and history. She weaves the theme of family into the fabric of her historical fiction and dives deep, by writing about true events and people.

Using her 20+ years of experience in genealogy research as a family historian, Jane has written articles and short stories. She was awarded a travel grant by the Cornish American Heritage Society and visited Cornwall to walk in the footsteps of her ancestors and research her roots.

Jane has won several awards for her writing, and invites readers to experience timeless lessons of faith, resilience, and heritage that echo from the past into our lives today.

She makes her home in the beautiful lowcountry of South Carolina with her husband of 45+ years. They have two grown children, and lots of cats.

To learn more about Jane, visit her at JaneBaylyVaughan.com and sign up for her newsletter to receive an award-winning short story that will introduce you to the series A Story of Grace.

More from Jane

I have been a long-time family historian for over twenty years. When COVID hit, I was at a crossroads and could choose the next grand adventure. As I took stock, I revisited a question that had nagged me on and off for some time: how do I ensure the family history is not forgotten? Around that time, a friend of mine invited me to observe a writer’s group. I accepted her invitation, and after one meeting, I became a member of Word Weavers International. I knew that writing stories about my ancestors would generate interest among my relatives.

I faced a learning curve and dedicated myself to writing brief scenes as submissions each month. At first, I considered this venture as something fun, not to be taken seriously, but after several months, someone I respect encouraged me, and so I applied myself. As my writing improved and my research continued, I thought of my four^th great-grandmother from Cornwall. A story formed, and I wrote all my submissions to the writer’s group about her in a fictional narrative. After a year or two attending the writer’s group, I was suffering from imposter syndrome and needed encouragement from sources who were not familiar with me. I wrote a short story and entered it into a contest as validation to either continue writing or quit altogether.

I attended the Florida Christian Writers Conference in 2024 and sat white-knuckled as they announced the short story winners. They announced third place first, and I didn’t win, so I almost stopped listening because I assumed I hadn’t placed at all. They announced second place, and of course, someone else won. Then the announcer paused and explained that the first-place winning piece was so good they said it was ready for publication. The words, “In first place is ’Becoming Grace’ by Jane Vaughan,” shocked me! That was a God moment, and I realized He was offering me a partnership.

Driven by my love for family history, I found my next grand adventure: partnering with my Creator to create stories that help us remember the resilience and sacrifices of our ancestors and how their lives affect us today. Ultimately, my stories are about how important it is to love each other. The Ties That Bind is the first book in the series A Story of Grace.

Blogs Stops

Books Less Travelled, October 20
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , October 21
Simple Harvest Reads, October 22 (Guest Review from Marilyn)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 23
Texas Book-aholic, October 24
Blossoms and Blessings, October 25 (Author Interview)
For Him and My Family, October 25
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 26
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 27
Books You Can Feel Good About, October 28
Stories By Gina, October 29 (Author Interview)
The Bookish Pilgrim, October 29
Avid Reader Nurse, October 30
Cover Lover Book Review, October 31
Holly’s Book Corner, November 1
Pause for Tales, November 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jane is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed 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://gleam.io/94vrw/the-ties-that-bind-celebration-tour-giveaway

My reviews

Thursday, October 22, 2026

Defiant Ones: Agent 355 by Heather Blanton

Sarah felt a strongly compelled to help earn the freedom of our nation. Her husband was part of a spy ring, so she naturally became one too. Women were not noticed as much so she was able to do well, but her circumstances were dangerous and an interesting story to read. History brought to life, making you appreciate how difficult it was to win our freedom.

#Agent355 #HeatherBlanton #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #USRevolutionFoundingHistory #ChristianShortReads #BeautifullyFlawedProductions #DefiantOnes @HeatherBlanton

I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My reviews