A New Year's Gift For Me!

Happy New Year! I stayed up late to welcome in the new year, then started 2026 by watching Seeking Persephone, a movie based off of Sarah Eden's book of the same name. The movie was SO good! I can't wait to watch it again. The acting was really well-done, (my compliments to the casting director, they nailed it!) the story had me riveted, the entire production truly was so, so good. I hope we can get more movies like that!

Freebie Friday for Romance Fans!

If you love short, sweet romances, this Winter Collection of stories by Sarah Eden, Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon, Joyce DiPastena, Donna Hatch and Heather B. Moore is free today! I really enjoyed this one and it features some of my favorite authors!

Get your free copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

THE ROAD TO CAVAN TOWN by Sarah M. Eden
Ireland 1864. Alice Wheatley walks each weekend into town, accompanied by Isaac Dancy. And while Alice finds herself falling in love with the gentleman, unfortunately he has his eyes set on the belle of the town, Miss Sophia Kilchrest. Alice must find a way to turn Isaac’s eyes toward her.

IT HAPPENED ON TWELFTH NIGHT by Heidi Ashworth
England 1812. Luisa Darlington discovers the man of her dreams, Percy Brooksby, isn’t in love with her as much as she thought he was. When Percy’s friend, the mysterious foreigner, Mr. Flynn, visits for the twelfth night holiday, he promptly sweeps Luisa off her feet, quite literally. Luisa is left catching her breath in more ways than one.

AN UNEXPECTED PROPOSAL by Annette Lyon
Logan, Utah 1880. When Caroline Simpson is forced to thwart the aggressive advances of Mr. Butch Larson, she discovers that her long-time friend, James, has genuine affection for her. But as stubborn as Caroline is, she minimizes the feelings he’s awakened in her, and it takes almost losing James to admit her true feelings for him.

CAROLES ON THE GREEN by Joyce DiPastena
England 1151. Lady Isabel has a dilemma. She promises herself that she’ll marry the man who sent a ring hidden in her pastry since the man she truly loves, Sir Lucian de Warrene, has proved to be impossible and exasperating. To forget him, Isabel sets her eyes on other eligible men, only to face another confrontation with Lucian—who isn’t about to back off and leave her to her newest plot.

A WINTER'S KNIGHT by Donna Hatch
Clarissa Fairchild’s coach just happens to break down in front of the most forbidding estate in the county, that of Wyckburg Castle, a place where young brides have been murdered for generations by their husbands. Clarissa is horrified yet curious all in the same breath. When she meets widower Christopher de Champs, Earl of Wyckburg, she must decide if she should flee or uncover the greatest secret in the county about her handsome rescuer.

A FORTUNATE EXILE by Heather B. Moore
Lila Townsend finds herself the victim of a broken heart—broken by the most notorious bachelor in 1901 New York City. If that isn’t bad enough, her father sends her to Aunt Eugenia’s remote farm where Lila must wait for her father’s anger to subside and the gossip columns to find new fodder. When Lila meets her aunt’s boarder, Peter Weathers, she discovers a man who isn’t afraid to stand up to her formidable family and take a chance on a woman with a sullied reputation.

New Book Video

I made a little book video for Love's Journey Home today. What do you think? Have you read this one yet?  (If it isn't showing up for you, you can see it HERE. Sometimes Blogger gets glitchy.)

(And did you know I'm working on the third book in that series? Shhh...that's a secret!)

My Monday Book Report

I'm still working on the Christmas Forevermore anthology. I've loved the first two in the collection so far. Sweet, romantic, with a lot of holiday-filled magic. Can't wait to read the next two!

What did you read this past weekend?

You can get Christmas Forevermore HERE

Here's the back copy:

This holiday season, fall in love with a brand-new collection of swoon-worthy novellas from four of your favorite historical romance authors. From meddling matchmakers to fortuitous fiascos, the holidays have never been more magical!

“A Family Christmas” by Sally Britton: After years abroad, Cyril Grant worries about relating to his highborn relatives at the family’s holiday celebration. But an unexpected connection with a member of the household staff opens his heart―in more ways than one.

“Christmas Forevermore” by Sarah M. Eden: In this reimagining of the beloved Charles Dickens tale A Christmas Carol, spinster Minna Schofield is inadvertently ensnared by a local matchmaker whose meddling launches Minna on a journey of self-reflection that could lead her to unexpected love.

“Christmas at Cranfield” by Ashtyn Newbold: Though childhood friends Hannah and Samuel secretly adore one another, fate conspires to keep them apart. But after years of shared holidays and missed opportunities, this Christmas brings the hope that their stars will align.

“A Thrill of Hope” by Karen Thornell: After a devastating loss, Christmas holds little appeal for Isabel Reid. But when a snowstorm traps her in the company of a surprising traveling companion, the perpetual winter of Isabel’s heart may just begin to thaw.

Last Day to Get These Book Deals!

Today is the very last day to get these two small town romances for free or .99 cents! Grab it before midnight!

Click HERE to get your copies.

Cyber Monday Deals!

I have been loving all the Cyber Monday deals I've been finding. I'm almost done with my Christmas shopping! Are you getting close to having your list done? 

In honor of Cyber Monday, my two small town inspirational romances are on sale or free today! I hope you enjoy them!

Get your copy HERE

Children's Book Review: Finding Jesus

I love finding new children's book authors with a memorable story and great illustrations. Christine Stevens Mower's new book, Finding Jesus, has both of those things! I actually discovered Christine Mower a few years back when The Little Lamb of Bethlehem book came out and told about the Savior's birth from the perspective of a lamb---and there was a plush lamb that could help keep the true spirit of the season in the home throughout the holidays. I listened to her speak about her inspiration for the lamb and we started a new family tradition with it that year. I loved her ideas then and I'm so glad that she has a new children's book out now, too!

In Finding Jesus, Micah has heard several people talking about Jesus and the things he's said and done for them. He wants to meet him, but that isn't as easy as it sounds! He takes his donkey Dexter and they go on a journey to find him, and learns how to be like Him along the way!

I really enjoyed this cute story about a young boy's search for Jesus. It was age-appropriate and children will relate to Micah as he tries so hard to find Jesus. I really loved the illustrations and how they brought the story to life with their color and beautiful imagery of the time period. The illustrator went the extra mile by including symbols and designs that add to the authentic feel of the story. I also liked that the paper was thick and could definitely withstand small hands reading it over and over. Perfect for your family's library.

Another fun thing to go along with the book is that the author wrote a song for it! And her daughter wrote the music. It's called, "When I Follow Jesus." You can hear it by clicking on the video below:

 

Get your Kindle copy of Finding Jesus HERE

Here is the back copy:

Micah and his family lived in Judea a long time ago. One day while he was out walking with his donkey, Dexter, Micah heard people talking about someone named Jesus. They were saying such amazing things! Who was this Jesus?

 
He decided right then, that very day, he was going to try and find Jesus. Together he and Dexter would search until they found Him.

Join seven-year-old Micah on his journey to find the son of God, and experience along the way how it feels to love Jesus and in turn, feel of His great love for you. You will learn that to follow Jesus means to be loving and kind, just like Him. Perfect for all ages, this gorgeously illustrated adventure is sure to become a family favorite.

Book Review With Lauren: Even the Dog Knows

 

  Even The Dog Knows by Jason Wright is an incredibly breathtaking read that brings you on a journey of a family that is finding their way back together. From the very first chapter, you are invested in the lives of the characters and they truly come to life on every page. 

    The story begins with the introduction of a couple, Meg and Gary, and how they originally met. Cute, right? The next chapter fast forwards several years to Meg leaving and telling Gary that their love is no more. Meg moves several states away, but her new adventure isn’t everything she hopes it would be, and she wants to see the family dog one more time. The chapters rotate point of view but all weave together in a beautiful way to create a story about discovering and re-discovering love. 

    I could not put it down! It also made me want to get a dog and take a road trip. I usually don’t read fiction for the blog, but I am so glad I picked this one up. I think I have found my new favorite author, I can’t wait to read more from him!

Get your copy here

Here's the back copy:

A family's old, beloved dog takes a final road trip to help his people find forgiveness and healing.

Meg Gorton finds herself alone and lonely in Florida. Three years earlier, she packed what she could fit into her sister's car, told her husband, Gary, where he could find her, and asked him to take care of Moses, their beloved black Labrador. For years, she'd tried to talk Gary into moving away from their home in Woodstock, Virginia. They both needed a fresh start after a painful loss and when their grandson Troy graduates from high school, Meg knows it's time. But Meg also knows that if she wants a new beginning, she'll have to do it alone. Now, with some looming health issues, Meg has a plan to finally bring Gary to Gulf Breeze.

Gary wasn't able to move on the same way Meg did. Haunted by the family's tragedy, and painfully aware of his guilt because he feels so responsible, he's stuck with nothing but a gig as owner and driver of the bus for his local minor league baseball team. And, of course, he still thinks about the day his wife drove away. At least he still has Moses, who is always willing to listen when Gary talks about his regrets and all the things he should have done differently.

Everything changes when Meg writes Gary a letter with a surprise request. She wants him to bring Moses to Florida so she can see Moses one last time. Gary is reluctant to go, but Troy loves the idea and suggests they could even travel together on Gary's bus. Along the way, Gary takes a detour to visit Troy's ex-girlfriend, Grace—the one who got away. Gary might not know how to fix things with his wife, but he knows he doesn't want Troy to make the same mistakes he did.

Although Moses is just a dog, he's very observant. He knows things—like that Gary hasn't been the same since Meg left, Troy is hiding something, and Grace's fingers smell like bacon. It doesn't take long for Moses to learn they are going on a road trip to see Meg. He misses her and senses Gary's loneliness. He also knows he's an old dog and that his time is near, but there are still important things only he can do.

Even the Dog Knows is a novel that will take readers on a thousand-mile journey to meet strangers and find forgiveness, understanding, healing, and the meaning of true and lasting love.

About the Author

Jason Wright is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, creator, and speaker. His work has appeared in more than a hundred newspapers, magazines, and websites across the United States, including the Washington Times, the Chicago Tribune, Forbes, CNN.com, and FoxNews.com. Jason and his wife, Kodi, live in Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley.

In the Non-Fiction Corner with Lauren: Old Testament Insights

Old Testament Insights takes us on a deep-dive of the Old Testament through many chapters, each written by a different author. These authors cover stories that are more familiar to us like Cain and Abel and Esther, but also expound on what we can learn from lesser known stories like Jeremiah and Hosea. Many of these chapters focus on sacrifice, which is a major theme of the Old Testament. This book definitely enhanced my knowledge of the Old Testament and made me excited for this year and what Come Follow Me has in store!

 
One of my favorite chapters of the book talks about Shiprah, Puah, and Deborah. The author starts out talking about how Christ is the light of the world, and how sacrifice is an essential part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we sacrifice and obtain a broken heart and a contrite spirit, others can see the Light of Christ through us. Shiprah and Puah are two biblical examples of women spreading their light to others, even though they lived in a very dark time. These women were midwives during a time when Pharaoh had commanded all the male babies to be killed. But Shiprah and Puah believed in the sanctity of life, and refused to be a part of this violence. Because they stood up for what was right, they were blessed by the Lord. This story is told in eight verses in the Old Testament, but we can learn so much from others perspectives as we study the Old Testament this year and this book will add more depth and perspective to our Old Testament knowledge.

Get your copy here

Here's the back copy:

We are instructed to offer unto the Lord a broken heart and a contrite spirit, a concept taught in Psalms 34:18, which is at the heart of the prophetic teachings on sacrifice and in the lived experiences of people in every age. But what does the phrase "broken heart and contrite spirit" mean, and what does God require of you? Old Testament Insights, featuring a compilation of essays from twenty gospel scholars, provides clarity for readers on the eternal principle of personal sacrifice, both as taught throughout the Old Testament and in its modern application.

Featuring multiple perspectives on the practice of sacrifice, this powerful volume offers valuable insight into our Heavenly Father's expectations for His covenant people. By looking to the experiences of individuals in scripture to anchor discussion, contributors weave together an in-depth explanation of the law of sacrifice and the true and eternal value of turning to the Lord with a broken heart and a contrite spirit.

Book Review: Keepsake Christmas Stories

 

Years ago we had neighbors that would gift us a Christmas candle every year. The candle had special little lines in it, one for each day in December until Christmas. We were supposed to gather around and light the candle, then read Christmas stories until the candle burned to the line for that day. I loved that tradition! And this book is perfect for reading inspirational Christmas stories with beautiful illustrations. 

The Tabernacle Choir does a Christmas show every year and I've been privileged to go to several of them. Each year a different actor, singer, or influential person reads a story that goes along with the theme. A few of my favorites were Jane Seymour, David McCullough, and Richard Thomas. This book captures the story and includes pictures of the special guest for that year, along with other pictures of the choir and decorations, etc. It is gorgeous with heavier paper, bright colors, and little extras with decorated margins that add a bit of flair and pageantry to the feel of it. It also includes a web link so you can actually hear the stories from the performance if you want. I know this book and the stories will be a treasure for our family for years to come.

Get your copy here

Here's the back copy:

This commemorative collector's edition celebrates twenty years of the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square's beloved Christmas show—an annual tradition enjoyed by millions, both live on stage and through its holiday season broadcast on PBS stations, where it has earned Grammy and Emmy awards and nominations. Each year the show is hosted by a distinguished special guest, including Jane Seymour, Tom Brokaw, Kristen Chenoweth, and Hugh Bonneville. These holiday story adaptions have ranged from The Gift of the Magi to the story behind the writing of the hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul" to the inspiring tale of "The Candy Bomber"—an unlikely American WWII hero who dropped candy from his airplane to the children of Germany.

This coffee table edition is the perfect holiday keepsake for all ages and features photographs of the stage productions alongside the stories, which also includes a weblink to hear the stories from every performance.

In the Non-Fiction Corner with Lauren: Come Follow Me Through the Old Testament

Come Follow Me Through the Old Testament by Scott Sorensen

Scott Sorenson is a brilliant teacher and podcaster and has now put his talents to use in helping people understand the Old Testament and do their Come Follow Me more effectively. 

One of the best parts of this book that I have found so far is the introduction. I love that Sorenson tells the reader to “always look for the personality and character of Christ.” I think this is a great reminder as we start our study of the Old Testament, because that is exactly why we study everything we study, to know Christ better. The introduction alone made me so excited to read the workbook and use it every week.

This book goes week by week with the Come Follow Me manual and provides questions and insights that will help the reader take to heart the doctrines and principles that they study. Sorenson helps individuals take a deep-dive with every lesson! Many of his chapters start with questions or brainstorming activities, which I enjoy. He also opens each new section with how much time you can expect to spend on that section! 

This book has excellent graphics and it even has QR codes that you can scan and pull up related talks or articles that will give you more information. How cool is that?! This book is one of the most well thought out study guides for Come Follow Me that I have seen and I cannot wait to use it every week.

Get your copy here

Here's the back copy:

Out of time and low on ideas? With Come, Follow Me through the Old Testament, planning your weekly gospel study has never been easier. This companion guide to the 2022 Come, Follow Me manual features a wealth of material designed to complement your weekly home-centered study. Written by popular religion teacher Scott Sorensen with your busy life in mind, these lesson supplements are flexible for personal or group use and for varying individual needs. From Genesis to Malachi, delve into the books of the Old Testament with the support of topical guides, discussion prompts, and activity suggestions. When used alongside the official Come, Follow Me manual, this valuable study guide will deepen your understanding of the words of the ancient prophets and enrich your home-centered learning experience.

Let's Learn Together Old Testament

There is a fun little spiral-bound flip book guide for families that will help with your study of the Old Testament called Let's Learn Together Old Testament by Rebecca Irvine. It's the perfect size to fit wherever you study your scriptures and has a little pop-up feature so it can stand on its own that I really loved.  I had it on my desk and was able to see the topic of discussion, which will be great for keeping it in the forefront of my mind every time I pass by! 

The book includes so many pertinent things! Each section starts with an overview of the person or place we are studying in Come Follow Me and also includes scriptures, quotes, and definitions. There are discussion questions for adults and some for children as well as activities you can do as a family. I know it will be the perfect thing to help us study and remember what we are learning throughout the week and I loved the little activities that make the subjects more relatable to our current everyday lives. A must-have for anyone who want to study the Old Testament!

You can get your copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

Delve into the doctrine of the Old Testament with Let's Learn Together, an engaging and thought-provoking collection of 150 gospel study cards on topics relating to weekly Come, Follow Me lessons. Designed to enhance understanding for children and adults alike, each card includes simple subject summaries and supporting scriptures, along with accompanying questions, conversation starters, and activities sure to spark impactful discussions among any age group. Whether used as part of your family's weekly worship or as a more frequent reference, these conversation cards will inspire more meaningful discussion of gospel principles in your own home-centered study of the Old Testament.

Black Friday Book Deals!

There are SO many great book deals today! You can fill up your ereader with everything from cowboy romance to contemporary. I've rounded up some of my favorite authors and their book deals just for you!

The Healing Summer by Heather B. Moore for FREE!

Get your free copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

Summer 1981

At the age of ninety-four, Maggie Howard’s final wish is to return to San Francisco and find out what happened to the young man who saved her life in 1906 after the disastrous earthquake and fires that devastated the city. They’d been trapped beneath a collapsed roof for hours, injured and unable to call for help.

The morning of their rescue, Orlando Gallo promised he would find her again. But Maggie hasn’t seen or heard from him in over seventy years, and now, widowed and childless, Maggie hopes to leave her estate to Orlando’s descendants. She invites her neighbor, forty-year-old Jo Sampson, to travel with her, and as the two women return to San Francisco to track down Orlando, they form a strong bond of friendship and healing that transcends time and place.

Kiss of a Stranger by Sarah Eden for only $1.99!

Get your sale copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

When Crispin, Lord Cavratt, thoroughly and scandalously kisses a serving woman in the garden of a country inn, he assumes the encounter will be of no consequence. But he couldn’t be more mistaken— the maid is not only a lady of birth, she’s the niece of a very large, exceptionally angry gentleman, who claims Crispin has compromised his niece beyond redemption. The dismayed young lord has no choice but to marry Miss Catherine Thorndale, who lacks both money and refinement and assumes all men are as vicious as her guardian uncle. 

Trapped between an unwanted marriage and a hasty annulment, which would leave his reputation tainted and Catherine’s utterly ruined, Crispin begins guiding his wife’s transformation from a socially petrified country girl to a lady of society. Their unfolding relationship reveals encouraging surprises for both of them, and privately, each of them wonders if theirs may become a true marriage of the heart. But their hopes are dashed when forces conspire to split asunder what fate has granted, and as a battle of wits escalates into a life-threatening confrontation, will it be possible for Crispin and Catherine to live happily ever after?

Chances Are by Traci Hunter Abramson for .99 cents!

Get your copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

Maya Gupta is a survivor. After escaping an impending arranged marriage in India as a teenager, she has thrived in America. But now she faces her greatest challenge yet—cancer has invaded her life, and unless she finds a way to participate in a clinical trial in Washington, DC, this may be one battle she loses. When Maya’s best friend Kari offers Maya the lifeline of a place to stay—her brother’s currently vacant DC apartment—the young woman eagerly accepts and goes to meet her fate . . . Ben Evans’s plans have changed, and he’s heading home for some much-needed rest and relaxation during his off-season in the major leagues. Upon arriving at his DC apartment, however, Ben is shocked to find Maya—his sister’s friend, who he hardly knows—in residence. He soon finds himself trapped between protecting his above-reproach reputation and searching for a way to help a woman he is coming to admire. When Maya’s fight to survive her disease becomes more complicated than ever, she and Ben scheme an extreme solution to her predicament that tests to what lengths they’re willing to go together to save Maya’s life. 

Love Bytes by Melanie Jacobson for FREE!

Get your free copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

Jessica Riley would do anything for her best friend Addison, including be her maid of honor and meet all her increasingly crazy wedding demands. But that's because Jessica has Dallen, the best man, helping her navigate the trouble their respective best friends keep stirring up. Even though she and Dallen have only spoken online or in texts, their friendship forms fast and easy, and Jessica is beginning to hope that the wedding in Hawaii will become the start of something special for her and Dallen too. Except...Dallen dates braniac supermodels. And while Jessica is a brainiac, she has a bad feeling she won't be his type. Will their connection survive in real life?  

Snow and Mistletoe by Jen Geigle Johnson for FREE!

Get your free copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

Mr. Easton must find a wife by Christmas or his brother will choose one for him.

Dosie is in no hurry to marry. She is starting her first season ready to spend as much time as possible diverting herself. But she is more awkward than clever when it comes to flirting, and she knows almost no one in the London ton. All these obstacles can be solved however with a little practice. She is sure of it. Early on, her plans are upset by the arrival of an undesirable suitor her father seems bent on accepting. He’s dark and looming where she is light and fun, and she is most desperate to rid herself of him as soon as possible.

Julian Easton wants nothing more than to free himself of any strapping to his brother. As a second son, he has little finances and up to this point has not discovered any way to increase his income besides the ever enticing betting on horses and the card tables. But as his debtors add up, he recognizes that he will need something else, anything else, and soon. His brother pushes him to marry a woman of wealth but a part of him recoils at the idea of using a woman in such a way and the romantic part of his heart wishes to one day marry for love or at least respect.

Everything changes for both of them as Dosie most desperately needs a hero and Julian steps in. But now they must accept the consequences and the arranged marriage that will come as a result.

Enjoy the journey of their love and the path to marriage that they may not have chosen but just might learn to treasure.

Rugged Cowboy by Elana Johnson for FREE!

Get your free copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

He's a cowboy mechanic with two kids and an ex-wife on the run. She connects better to horses than humans. Can Dallas and Jess find their way to each other at Hope Eternal Ranch?

Dallas Dreyer was once a decorated surgeon. After getting involved in insurance fraud and then spending thirty months in a low-security facility, he gets released only to learn his wife of fifteen years has left their two children at her sister's and fled the state. He's determined to figure out how to be a single dad and do right by his kids, and he goes to Hope Eternal Ranch to attend the wedding of one of his best friends.

He meets Jessica Morales, the stable master at the ranch, and he's instantly attracted to her. She has a big heart, a wide smile, and she's great with his kids. Jess likes him too, but she's wary of the rugged cowboy mechanic who doesn't seem to know when it's okay to take calls from his ex-wife and how to juggle all of his new responsibilities. Her horses, though, she gets, and since she's never had a relationship that's lasted longer than two months, she's not sure she wants to take a chance with her heart.

When Dallas finds himself dealing with thugs who want him to pay off his ex-wife's debt, he has to make difficult decisions to keep himself, his children, and Jess safe. That means dealing with his ex-wife and paying whatever price necessary to get dangerous men away from Hope Eternal Ranch.

Can Jess be patient with Dallas while he deals with so much? Or will the family she's started to build with him and his children disintegrate right before her eyes?

My Not-So-Wicked Stepbrother by Jennifer Peel for only $1.99!

Get your sale copy HERE

Here's the back copy:

Loveless is more than a name, it's a curse.

I, Emma Loveless, have a destiny. It's not the greatest of destinies, but when you have a name like Loveless, what can you do? I'm cursed to always be the friend, never the girlfriend. Unless you count my love affair with Duncan Hines, Dr. Pepper, and the ever-lovable Pillsbury Doughboy. They've seen me through it all, but a girl needs more than refined sugar to curl up to every night. It doesn't help that I have a meddling, albeit wonderful, mother who can't help playing matchmaker. Thanks to her, I can say I've been on a date with a felon. Now she swears she's found the one for me, her new optometrist, Dr. Sawyer King. Meanwhile, I'm preparing for the inevitable restraining order. That is, until I meet the sexy doctor and have to admit my mother is right--love at first sight does exist.

Unfortunately, my last name means business. Not only do I find myself in the friend zone, but also the twilight zone. Only in my world would Mr. Right turn into my stepbrother. To top it off, he brings with him a wicked stepmother who will do anything to keep us apart. Despite all this my heart--or is that my mom?--keeps telling me Sawyer is the one. But what if true love isn't strong enough to interfere with my destiny? It'll be me and the Doughboy...for eternity.  

And SIX of my books are on sale right now for only .99 cents! Second chance romance, Christmas romance, small-town romance and romantic suspense books to cozy up with and enjoy. 

Get Love's Broken Road HERE

Get The Captain's Christmas Promise HERE

Get The Captive HERE

Get Through Love's Trials HERE

Get Truth or Dare HERE

Get All Fall Down HERE

You can also see MORE great Black Friday book deals HERE 

Happy holiday reading!

Freebie for Romance Fans!

Have you ever wanted to take a romantic tour of Europe, but haven't been able to yet? Well, now you can take a romantic fiction tour with Timeless Romance Anthologies European Collection that is free today! Six novellas in one collection is perfect for your busy holiday season.

Get your free copy here

Here's the back copy:

WAR OF HEARTS by Annette LyonAnna, a journalist, is desperate to escape the magazine where Pete, her now-former boyfriend, also works. Heartbroken and still in love with him, Anna snags an assignment to cover the Winter War in Finland. She arrives at a snowy Finnish battlefront only to discover that Pete is already there—as her photographer. She’s determined to be professional about the situation until a battle breaks out in camp, putting her and Pete in harm’s way and putting their love to the test.

THE EARL OF OAKSEY TAKES A WIFE by G.G. Vandagriff
Melissa Burroughs is the new Countess of Oaksey. Her whirlwind romance and subsequent elopement was worth every divine moment, even if her parents did disapprove. When Melissa learns about her new husband’s apparently empty pockets, she wonders if the intimacy they’ve shared is only the ruse of a fortune-hunter. Melissa is devastated and determines to live a separate life from her new husband. But the Earl has other plans, which do not include staying away from his wife.

GIFT OF LOVE by Michele Paige Holmes
Ethan Mooreleigh knows he’ll never love another woman after the loss of his beloved wife. Yet he needs a male heir to inherit his vast fortune. Ethan’s best friend, Stuart, has an idea and retrieves his sister, Amelia, who has been living in a convent since the tragic death of her parents. Amelia only agrees to enter into the contract marriage because there’s a child involved, Ethan’s neglected three-year-old daughter. When Amelia meets Ethan for the first time at the altar, she realizes that the last thing she wants her marriage to be is loveless. But winning a man whose heart is still broken may be impossible.

A LESSON IN LOVE by Sarah M. Eden
Newlywed Lucy Stanthorpe arrives for the London Season, planning to attend every ball and musicale with her new husband, Reed, only to discover he has no intention of taking part in the social whirl. Spurred on by their family and friends, Lucy and Reed each formulate increasingly outlandish plans to teach the other a lesson in appreciation. Their battle of wills threatens to pull the young couple apart unless they can both soften their stubborn hearts.

AN OCEAN AWAY by Heather B. Moore
Gina Graydon knows the last thing she’ll attract on her holiday in France is an eligible bachelor. Tall, outspoken, and with a weakness for laughing at the wrong moment, not to mention being much too occupied with reading gothic romances, Gina decides she’d rather live in her fictional world. Besides, the only man who pays attention to her at the resort hotel happens to be her father’s worst enemy. And that is far from romantic. Reading in a secluded garden, and dreaming about the perfect kiss, all keep Gina much too busy to consider Mr. Edmund Donaldson any sort of hero.

WHAT HAPPENS IN VENICE by Nancy Campbell Allen
Evangeline Stuart is determined to enjoy her vacation in Venice—her first and likely her last since she lives under the strict confines of her step-father’s control. When she meets the mysterious and romantic Conte Bellini, who happens to be Italy’s most eligible bachelor, she decides he is all part of the dream of visiting Venice. It’s impossible for her to believe that his interest in her is anything more than kindness to a foreign visitor. But when he discovers the true betrayal of her step-father, Evangeline learns the Conte may be the one person with the power to restore her happiness.

Freebie Friday for Romance Fans!

Do you need an inspirational cowboy romance to read this weekend? The Cowboy's Catch, a cute novella by Kimberly Krey is free today!

Get your free copy here

Here's the back copy:

Could one little date change her mind about him?

When Jason Keller bids on a date with Marlee at the town's annual fundraising event, she's quick to turn him down. First of all, an evening with Marlee was never on the table; just dates with each of her younger sisters.

Beyond that, Jason Keller--a man with Hollywood ties--is the last cowboy in town she'd go on a date with. Being abandoned because of her own mother's Hollywood pursuits taught her well.

But when the Keller Cowboy offers a hefty sum for the charities in question, in front of half the town no less, Marlee's compelled to accept.

It's just one date after all, and it's not like she'd ever fall for a man like him. Or so she thinks.

It's a Sarah Eden Super Sale!

 

You guys! Sarah Eden is one of my very favorite authors and you can get SEVEN of her books for only $1.99 each! That is a fantastic deal! I've read all of these books and loved them. You won't want to miss this deal!

Get The Sheriffs of Savage Wells HERE

Get Longing for Home HERE

Get Hope Springs HERE

Get Ashes on the Moor HERE

Get The Lady and the Highwayman HERE

Get The Gentleman and the Thief HERE

Get Healing Hearts HERE

Freebie for Mail Order Bride Fans!

If you love mail order bride stories, you're going to love the Timeless Romance Anthology: Mail Order Bride novella collection! And it's free today!

Get your free copy here

Here's the back copy:

Six Award-Winning Authors have contributed new stories to A Timeless Romance Anthology: Mail Order Bride Collection, now a USA TODAY Bestseller! Six historical romance novellas set in the Old West.

WRITTEN IN HER HEART, a charming novella by Stacy Henrie, Georgeanna is getting desperate. She can’t fund her favorite orphanage unless she marries and secures the rest of her inheritance left by her father. But her father’s financial planner, Clay, can't understand why she's not content with her current situation. Georgie determines to send out a notice as a mail order bride to attract suitors who won’t know her financial situation. Little does she know, Clay takes up the pen and sends her letters of his own under an assumed name. After years of working for Georgie’s father, Clay realizes he isn’t ready to watch her marry another, not when his heart is already claimed by her.

In Kristin Holt’s delightful novella WANTED: MIDWIFE BRIDE Dr. Naomi Thornton thinks she has it all: a beautiful house, a loving husband, and a fulfilling career. But when everything she holds dear is ripped away, Naomi has no choice but to start over. What will she find in the wild and untamed Wyoming Territory? Dr. Joe Chandler has waited years for a wife with the knowledge, skills, and tender heart he yearns for in a medical colleague and lifetime companion. When a midwife arrives with more expertise and secrets than he counted on, Joe quickly discovers there’s more to love and marriage than a simple mail order contract.

In THE SOUND OF HOME, a captivating novella by Annette Lyon, Marilyn is given the choice of either marrying the despicable Victor or being charged with a murder she didn’t commit. Refusing to believe that either is her fate, she finds a third option: she answers a mail order bride advertisement and boards a train to Wyoming to wed a man named Harry. Moments after her arrival, she learns that Harry isn’t who he seemed to be, and the advertisement turns out to be a giant mistake. Harry’s brother Thomas agrees to let her stay until she can figure out what to do next—after all, she simply cannot return to New York—but Marilyn quickly finds herself developing feelings for Thomas.

In Sarah M. Eden’s endearing novella FOR BETTER OR WORSE Gerald Smith, on the advice of his well-meaning neighbors, has decided it’s time to change his lonely existence. Mary Hill, on the advice of her empty pocketbook and non-existent roof over her head, has decided it’s time to secure herself a future. A mail-order marriage, they both realize, is no guarantee of happiness, but it is a risk they are willing to take. However, coming face to face on the train platform, the hapless couple discovers an unexpected truth: marriage to a perfect stranger is sometimes far preferable to the prospect of a lifetime with someone you used to know.

Heather B. Moore’s sweet novella THE INCONVENIENT BRIDE sees Carmela traveling from Boston to Colorado, eager to meet the man she’s been corresponding with and will soon marry. Her brother’s new marriage leaves little room for Carmela in her old life. Upon arrival in Leadville, she faces a rude awakening, and the only one who can understand her predicament is her fiance’s brother, Samuel. But Samuel can’t possibly help her out of an awkward situation, can he?

THE PRICE OF SILVER, an engaging novella by Siân Ann Bessey, Katie leaves New York for Idaho to marry Jake, a man she’s written to a couple of times. But when she steps off the train, his brother Caleb is there to greet her. Jake has gone to take a mining job he couldn’t pass up. Caleb takes Katie back to the family ranch to wait for Jake’s return. The more Caleb gets to know Katie, the more he envies his brother, but he can’t let his heart overrule his head unless Jake changes his mind about his intended bride.

Freebie Friday for Romance Fans!

If you need a romance to read this weekend, Not Over You, by Heather B. Moore is free today! I haven't read this one, but it looks like a cute second chance romance. 

Get your free copy here 

Here's the back copy:

He left her behind. She’s spent years ignoring him. But some things can never be forgotten.

Knox Prosper knows he can never go back in time and correct his mistakes, so he has to find a way to move forward, and start a new life. Become a better man, and a father, if only for his young daughter. His regrets have taught him to simplify and to focus on what’s real and important. Returning to his hometown to ride in the rodeo gives him a chance to spend time with his daughter and to continue mending bridges with the rest of his family. But what he doesn’t expect is to run into Jana Harris—the first woman he loved—the woman who faded from his life years before because Knox continued to mess up one thing after another. Someone as good and as sweet as Jana is the last person he deserves. Hope is dangerous. And hope can break his heart once again. Yet Jana might be the one person with the power to redeem his past once and for all.

Book Review: The Accidental Bride

I've really enjoyed Carolyn Twede Frank's western series set in Craig, Colorado, and I was excited to see another installment! 

In His Accidental Bride, we meet Dorothy who is desperately trying to escape her con-man brother and his schemes. A sympathetic woman on the train named Wilhemina gives her a way out---deliver a letter to the man she was supposed to marry as a mail-order bride. Dorothy agrees, but once she gets to town, everyone mistakes her for Wilhemina, even Ronald, the man who was expecting his mail-order wife. Dorothy and Ronald hit it off and soon, she can't seem to find the words to tell Ronald who she really is.

Dorothy has a lot of inner turmoil going on and she's constantly trying to figure out a way to get out of the situations she finds herself in. Ronald is the one bright spot in her life and he's definitely not a typical hero. He's quiet, reserved, and doesn't trust easily. He falls in love with Dorothy, but her past soon catches up with her. I did enjoy their slow-paced romance like a little bit of sunshine on a cold day. I thought the author did a great job with the setting and it was fun to revisit characters from previous books. I had a hard time with the ending because right when we were about to get some resolution, the author skips ahead six months and then the reader is just told what happened, which really sucked away the tension and pacing. But I was glad to see Dorothy and Ronald get a happily-ever-after and I'm hoping there will be more books in this series.

Get your copy here

Here's the back copy:

Dorothy Bednar is living a life she despises. Forced to work as a double-dealing saloon girl, Dorothy has finally had enough. The next train out of town is her ticket to freedom, and Dorothy jumps aboard without a thought for where she’s going—until she meets a kind woman aboard the train. Her fellow passenger was originally traveling to Colorado to marry a man she’d never met, but her cold feet offer Dorothy the perfect opportunity to set up roots somewhere new. Dorothy soon finds herself posing as the mail-order bride—after all, marrying a stranger can’t be worse than what she left behind.

Young Colorado lawyer Ronald Smith is astonished when he spies the lovely woman who comes to greet him—the woman who is to be his wife. Dorothy is beyond Ronald’s wildest dreams, a kindhearted partner eager to be a homemaker and mother. To Dorothy, Ronald is the most gentlemanly man she’s ever met—a man who makes her feel safe and cherished. What begins as a deception soon deepens into true love, but too soon, Dorothy’s secret past threatens the beautiful life she’s built—a life that feels truer than anything she’s ever known.

The Forgotten Carols Christmas Tradition

One of our favorite family traditions at Christmas is watching The Forgotten Carols. The story is so heartwarming and sweet, with some truly funny moments and lots of great music. 

This year, we couldn't watch it be performed on stage, but there is a 2020 Theatrical version of it! I wasn't sure I would love the DVD version as much as seeing it live, but I did! The sets were great and there were a few changes to the show with some new music and new dialogue in some scenes. Michael McLean is amazing, as always, and the actress who plays Constance really shines. All of the extra touches, combined with the story and acting, really added to the overall charm of the show and finding the true joy of the season. Our whole family enjoyed it! 

This is a timeless classic and one you'll definitely want to have in your family's library.

You can get your copy here

See the movie trailer here

Here's a little more about the show:

The Forgotten Carols stage performance tells the story of Connie Lou, a nurse whose empty life is changed when Uncle John, a new patient she is attending, recounts the story of Christ’s birth as told by little known characters in the nativity story. The accounts from the Innkeeper, the Shepherd and others help the nurse discover what the world has forgotten about Christmas, ultimately encouraging her to open her heart to the joy of this special season.