Tuesday, November 18, 2025
A Place to Belong: Josephine’s Story : A Shumard Oak Bend Companion Christmas Novella (Discerning God’s Best) by Heidi Gray McGill
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
The Reluctant Pioneer: Inspired by a true story by Julie McDonald Zander
Publisher's Description
Matilda Koontz cherishes her life as a wife and mother on a Missouri farm, but her hardworking husband wants to claim free farmland in the Pacific Northwest. When he suggests selling the farm to trek two thousand miles across the Oregon Trail, she balks.
But in the spring of 1847, Matilda and Nicholas Koontz and their sons embark on a grueling journey westward. Fresh graves testify to dangers of disease, accidents, starvation, and a multitude of hazards threatening her family and her beloved’s dream.
With new struggles at every turn, Matilda wonders how she can protect her sons on such a perilous journey. Will they reach the trail’s end? Will the babe growing inside her womb survive?
When tragedy strikes, the question changes: How can she possibly continue?
This pioneer woman’s journey is inspired by a true story.
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
An Uncharted Dream by Abbey Downey
Lenora and Marcus had known each other and had been friends for years. They both belonged to the Explorers Club. An opportunity came up for the group and they decided to go on an exploration trip. Secrets on both sides and things withheld from others make for quite a journey for them all. But in the end their faith showed them that what was bad was used for good and they grew from the experience. Lovely story.
I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#AnUnchartedDream #AbbeyDowney #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #WildHeartBooks #GildedAgeHistoricalRomance
About the Book
Book: An Uncharted Dream
Author: Abbey Downey
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release Date: July 1, 2025
An explorer in search of answers, a determined protector, and an expedition that could cost them everything…
Leonora Thornton always envisioned following in her father’s footsteps—exploring the world and chasing adventure. But after his tragic death, she can’t get past the debilitating fear…until she meets an explorer who promises to take her on his expedition to the very place where her father died.
Marcus Turner knows a con man when he sees one, and after years of hiding his family’s shameful financial situation, he won’t let anyone he cares about be swindled again. Especially not Leonora, his longtime best friend and the woman he secretly loves. Joining the expedition, Marcus embarks on a mission to protect Leonora from the swindler, no matter the cost.
When betrayal leaves them stranded far from their destination, Leonora and Marcus must determine if they can rely on God—or each other.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Abbey Downey started writing inspirational romance stories during naptime when her kids were babies and found she couldn’t stop. She previously published two books with Love Inspired Historical under the pen name Mollie Campbell. She also works with Spark Flash Fiction producing a quarterly digital magazine that contains love stories under 1000 words.
A life-long Midwestern girl, Abbey lives in central Indiana with her husband, two kids, and one rather enthusiastic beagle. She loves watching her kids play sports and fixing up a 1900 farmhouse with her husband.
More from Abbey
Have you ever doubted God’s faithfulness toward you? That He could take a tough circumstance and make anything good come out of it?
As with all my books, An Uncharted Dream is filled with romance and fascinating real history. I had the best time writing the love story between lifelong friends Marcus and Leonora. And the research into archeology, exploration, and surveying in the early 1900s was so interesting. You can get a peek into that in my author’s note.
However, I also wrote An Uncharted Dream while struggling with the kind of doubts I mentioned above in my own life. I was fighting to understand how God’s loving plan for me could include so much heartache that quite honestly still seems to have no end in sight. I know I’m not alone. Many of us grapple with questions like this every day and it’s so tough.
Leonora also faces these questions. Just when there might be a chance for romance with her best friend and her dream of going on an archeological expedition is within her grasp, she faces an obstacle that makes her doubt God’s goodness in her life. Like us, she has to come to grips with the reality that following Christ doesn’t mean things automatically go smoothly. Even for His faithful followers, God doesn’t always work out a difficult situation with a tidy happy ending. Often, we’re left to learn to lean on Him as we go straight through the worst of that situation, instead.
It’s not easy, I know that just as well as many of you. And while I don’t know why it has to be that way, I can tell you that God’s faithfulness is constant. He doesn’t love us any less when He lets us remain in a struggle. This story is just that—a work of fiction. But I hope you’ll go through this journey with Marcus and Leonora and be encouraged. I hope you’ll see the unwavering truth of God’s Word and His character. And I hope you’ll be uplifted by the moments of joy and success these characters find in their hardship and see those same kinds of blessings in your life.
Happy reading!
Blog Stops
Inspired by Fiction, July 26
Simple Harvest Reads, July 26 (Guest Review from Donna)
Book Looks by Lisa, July 27
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 28
lakesidelivingsite, July 29
Mary Hake, July 29
Texas Book-aholic, July 30
Leslie’s Library Escape, July 31
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 1
Blossoms and Blessings, August 1
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 2
Cover Look Review, August 3
For Him and My Family, August 4
Holly’s Book Corner, August 4
Bizwings Book Blog, August 5
Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 5
Books You Can Feel Good About, August 6
Lily’s Corner, August 7
Pause for Tales, August 7
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Abbey 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.
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54258
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Maggie's Journey, McKenna Sisters Book 1 by Lena Nelson Dooley
About the Book
Book: Maggie’s Journey
Author: Lena Nelson Dooley
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: January 7, 2025
A secret adoption, a quest for identity, and a love that could change her life forever.
Margaret Lenora Caine has never fit the mold her mother set for her. When Maggie discovers proof she was adopted, the rift between them only tears deeper. Feeling the sting of betrayal, Maggie requests permission to visit her grandmother in Little Rock, Arkansas. There she’ll set her sights on her dream of becoming a successful dress designer and maybe find her true identity in the process. Her father’s one condition is that she must be travel with her young aunt and her father’s handsome business partner, Charles Stanton—the man who once held her affections.
Charles Stanton, a thriving businessman, has taken a calculated risk by joining forces with Maggie’s father in a joint venture. When asked to chaperone his new partner’s sister-in-law and daughter on a cross-country trip, Charles sees it as an opportunity to strengthen their business ties. Though he initially sets his sights on Maggie’s charming and composed aunt as a potential wife, Charles soon finds himself increasingly captivated by Maggie’s resilience and charm.
With each passing mile, the bond between Maggie and Charles deepens, challenging both Maggie’s plans and her heart. Will the love growing between them help her embrace her identity—or complicate her search for what truly matters in life?
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Multi-published, award-winning author Lena Nelson Dooley has had more than 1,000,000 copies of her 50+ books sold. Her books have appeared on the CBA, Publisher’s Weekly, and ECPA bestseller lists, as well as Amazon bestseller lists. She is a member of American Christian Fiction and the local chapter, ACFW – DFW. She’s a member of Christian Authors’ Network. She likes to create characters and stories that grip her readers hearts.
Book Excerpt
“Mrs. Caine.” Angus McKenna came to an abrupt stop and cleared his throat before starting again. “I’ve come to ask you something that . . . I never dreamed I’d . . . ever ask anyone.” His voice rasped, and he stopped to take a gulp of air, staring off into the distance.
She couldn’t take her eyes from him, even when the baby in her arms squirmed. “How can we help you?”
New tears followed the trails down his cheeks and disappeared into his beard. He grabbed a bandanna from his back pocket and blew his nose with one hand. “I’ve just lost the most important thing in my life.” He paused and stared at the ground. “I don’t know how I can go on without her.” His voice cracked on the last word. Once again he paused, but much longer this time. His prominent Adam’s apple bobbed several times. “I’ve been crying out to God, but I don’t think He’s listening to me right now. If He were . . . ”
What a thing for a man to admit to them. Florence knew he must be near a breakdown. He did need help, but what could they do?
“I’ve decided . . . it would be best to find another family to raise one of my girls.” He stood straighter. “I’ve watched you with Margaret Lenora . . . ”
“Is that what you’ve named her?” Florence gazed at the sleeping baby, and her heart ached for the child. To grow up without a mother.
“Yes.” Angus looked straight at Joshua, and her husband gave a slow nod.
“Your husband has told me . . . how much you’ve wanted a child.”
For a moment, anger flared in her chest. Joshua shouldn’t share her secret with anyone. She took a deep breath to keep from saying something she’d regret. Even though she didn’t even look at her husband, she could feel his gaze deep inside. She was grateful he couldn’t see the ugly jealousy and covetousness that resided there.
Blog Stops
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 24
Artistic Nobody, January 25 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 25
Texas Book-aholic, January 26
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 27
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 28
Devoted To Hope, January 29
Guild Master, January 30 (Author Interview)
Sylvan Musings, January 30
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 31
Books You Can Feel Good About, February 1
Simple Harvest Reads, February 2 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
For Him and My Family, February 3
Holly’s Book Corner, February 4
Pause for Tales, February 5
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Lena 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.
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54139
Thursday, March 21, 2024
Inventions of the Heart by Mary Connealy
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
The Chosen Season 4 trailer
This looks like it will be quite impactful. Certainly, the other seasons have been amazing in showing the life of Jesus and the people He chose to surround Him, but this season is getting into the most sorrowful part of His life. We will be watching the series for sure!
Threatened by the reality of Jesus’ growing influence, religious leaders do the unthinkable—ally with their Roman oppressors. As the seeds of betrayal are planted and opposition to Jesus’ message turns violent, he’s left with no alternative but demand that his followers RISE UP.
Official Trailer link: https://collidemediagroup.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7fa294e9cfc078eecabbec8f4&id=188bc82361&e=8178308bbe
#TheChosen4MIN #MomentumInfluencers #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #ChristianMovie #Jesus
Thursday, December 21, 2023
Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection GONE TO TEXAS by Caryl McAdoo
Saturday, July 1, 2023
Rescue in the Wilderness by Andrea Byrd
About the Book
Book: Rescue in the Wilderness
Author: Andrea Byrd
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: June 27, 2023
William Cole cannot forget the cruel burden he carries, not with the pock marks that serve as an outward reminder. Riddled with guilt, he assumed the solitary life of a long hunter, traveling into the wilds of Kentucky each year. But his quiet existence is changed in an instant when, sitting in a tavern, he overhears a man offering his daughter—and her virtue—to the winner of the next round of cards. William’s integrity and desire for redemption will not allow him to sit idly by while such an injustice occurs.
Lucinda Gillespie has suffered from an inexplicable illness her entire life. Her father, embarrassed by her condition, has subjected her to a lonely existence of abuse and confinement. But faced with the ultimate betrayal on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, Lucinda quickly realizes her trust is better placed in his hands of the mysterious man who appears at her door. Especially when he offers her the one thing she never thought would be within her grasp—freedom.
In the blink of an eye, both lives change as they begin the difficult, danger-fraught journey westward on the Wilderness Trail. But can they overcome their own perceptions of themselves to find love and the life God created them for?
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Andrea Byrd is a Christian wife and mom located in rural Kentucky, who loves to spend time with her family in the great outdoors, one with nature. Often described as having been born outside her time, she has a deep affinity for an old-fashioned, natural lifestyle.
With a degree in Equine Health & Rehabilitation gathering dust and a full-time job tethering her to a desk eight hours a day, Andrea decided it was time to show both herself and her children that it is truly possible to make your dreams come true. Now with over 1,000 contemporary Christian romance novellas sold, Andrea is pursuing her passion of writing faith-filled romance woven with a thread of true history.
More form Andrea
There is so much inspiration that fed into the creation of Rescue in the Wilderness.
Not only was the Good Lord’s guiding hand ever-present, but so was the influence of those that came before me. This story was inspired by my own ancestors, as well as the countless others, that made the arduous journey through Cumberland Gap to settle in Kentucky. Those brave souls opened up a whole new world, and for some of us, established the area in which their families would preside for centuries to come.
As a lover of books that integrate history into fiction myself, I also wished to shed light on the “Hard Winter” of 1779-1780. This was a winter that came early, and with great intensity. While it caused hardships for many across the country, it made the journey through the Cumberland Gap all the more perilous.
Beyond these historical facts, I also wished to pay tribute to those who suffer from chronic pain conditions. I will never forget the day a friend of mine, whom the Lord called home all too soon, told me of her childhood rheumatoid arthritis and how there were days she was in too much pain to leave her bed. In this book, I wished to explore what pioneer life might have been for someone who suffered from such a condition.
Blog Stops
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, June 29 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 29
Connie’s History Classroom, June 30
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 1
Books You Can Feel Good About, July 1
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 2
Texas Book-aholic, July 3
Lighthouse Academy Blog, July 3 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
lakesidelivingsite, July 4
Betti Mace, July 5
Pause for Tales, July 5
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, July 6
For Him and My Family, July 7
JESUS in the EVERYDAY, July 7
Karen Baney Reviews, July 8
Cover Lover Book Review, July 8
Jeanette’s Thoughts, July 9
Splashes of Joy, July 10
To Everything There Is A Season , July 10
Holly’s Book Corner, July 11
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Andrea is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/2678e/rescue-in-the-wilderness-celebration-tour-giveaway
Saturday, March 4, 2023
Honor’s Mountain Promise
#HonorsMountainPromise #MistyMBeller #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #ChristianHistoricalFiction #FiveStarNovel #CelebrateLit
About the Book
Book: Honor’s Mountain Promise
Author: Misty M. Beller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: March 5, 2023
They both need a new start, but this looks nothing like either of them planned.
Aaron Long never expected his life to turn out this way—finally on the right side of the law, but with a bum leg and driving a freight wagon through the wild Rocky Mountains. The only excitement left in his days is his newfound faith. But in the midst of an urgent deliver to settlers fort, the last thing he expects is to discover a woman great with child who pleads for him to take her back to Fort Benton—the opposite direction from Settler’s Fort. He can’t leave her, but he also can’t take her where she wants to go.
Katie Barlowe rarely had a say in how her life would go, not even when she married the successful businessman her parents selected for her. Nor when he brought her all the way ut to the Montana Territory to start a ranch in these breathtaking and treacherous mountains. She’s a widow now and determined to take control of her future and that of the new life growing inside her. To do so, she must get back to civilization—before the babe is born. When she finally finds a freighter who will take her the first leg of her journey east, all seems to be finally falling into place. Until her transporter is killed and she’s faced with a stranger who will only agree to take her to a little mining town far from Fort Benton and the steamship to carry her home.
When Aaron and Katie set out through the mountain winter, the journey ahead will change their lives more than they could have known.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.
Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.
Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.
Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.
More from Misty
When the Other Brother Finally Gets His Story
Have you ever read a series that needed just one more book? A significant side character needed their story told?
That’s been the case with my Hearts of Montana series for two years now! I thought I’d wrapped up the series with book 3, Faith’s Mountain Home, which features Nate and Laura as they unravel the mystery around a cave near their Montana frontier town. Nate’s twin brother Aaron played a strong part in that story—and not always as one of the good guys. He was recovering from a gunshot wound that shattered his thighbone, and Laura (the heroine) was his nurse and chief physical therapy sergeant. In those dark days during his recovery, Aaron made some poor choices and definitely wasn’t the best version of himself.
By the end of Faith’s Mountain Home, Aaron saw the change in his twin brother Nate and how his new faith made him different—a better man. In one of the last scenes, Aaron apologizes to Laura for how he’s made her job harder when she was trying so hard to help him. We even get a ray of hope that Aaron might be opening himself up to God’s redeeming power.
Ever since that book released, readers and I have both been looking for Aaron’s story! The book where he finds his own leading lady and becomes the man God created him to be (but not without major obstacles along the way!)
Even if you haven’t read the other books in the series, I think you’ll love Aaron’s story in Honor’s Mountain Promise as much as I did.
Praying blessings for you!
Misty
Blog Stops
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 1
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 1
Texas Book-aholic, March 2
deb’s Book Review, March 3
Locks, Hooks and Books, March 4
Books You Can Feel Good About, March 4
Splashes of Joy, March 5
Cover Lover Book Review, March 5
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 6
Pause for Tales, March 6
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 7
Connie’s History Classroom, March 7
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 8
Through the Fire Blogs, March 9
Holly’s Book Corner, March 9
Blossoms and Blessings, March 10
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 11
For Him and My Family, March 12
Christina’s Corner, March 12
Betti Mace, March 13
Mary Hake, March 13
Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 14
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/24947/honor-s-mountain-promise-celebration-tour-giveaway



























