“Gingerbread Treasures” by Rebekah Jones.

Today, I’m excited to share about the release of the individual stories that were originally part of the A Very Bookish Christmas novella collection. Each story takes elements from classic books and incorporates them into the story. This weekend, three of the four stories will now be available on Kindle! Today I'll be reviewing another of the books. :)

Gingerbread Treasures

 by Rebekah Jones

Synopsis: 

Missing Gingerbread Men are the Key...

Oliver Breckenridge has a case — one he’s willing to fly all the way across the pond at Christmastime to look into. 

Emily Willis says it all started with the gingerbread men. Then came the dognapping. And then the email…

Despite mounting clues, Oliver and his ad hock team of investigators aren’t getting anywhere. Add in a man Oliver hoped never to see again, a few rumors, and even more inconsistencies, and matters aren't clearing up.

Finding the “gingerbread treasure” might turn out to be more than they bargained for.

(From Goodreads)

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

4.5 stars & 5/10 hearts. This was my first book by Rebekah Jones and I would love to read more of her work!!! The story was humorous, mysterious, sweet, and a great retelling. As it happens, I was in the middle of rereading The Sign of the Four when I got this ARC so I had fun comparing the two. I was really impressed by how the author pulled in the important elements but changed some things and made them a bit more of subtle nods to Holmes’ story. There was a tiny bit of hugging (a guy comforting the girl character) but otherwise it was very clean. I really liked the characters, and I appreciated that the mystery was very clean too, but still kept the nasty villain factor and was still quite mysterious. There was excellent humour, and Gavin’s asthma threw in such an interesting and unique angle! The more I think of it the more of the subtle similarities I notice between the two stories and I’m extremely impressed. Highly recommended for Sherlock Holmes fans or mystery lovers! 

A Favourite Quote: “‘Praying won’t fix anything, you know.’

“... ‘It might not fix things how I would like them, but it will help me to bear what I need to.’”

A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Emily smiled, pushing the hair out of the eyes that still held that gentle touch of sorrow in them.”

A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘When did you memorize those verses?’

“‘I think that I was ten or eleven. Why?’

“Just making sure that you didn’t do it this morning, just so you could recite them to me.”

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

Get this book:

America | Canada

Classic that inspired the story: Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of the Four.

Random fun fact: Gingerbread Treasures is just the beginning. I have 18 more books planned that stem off of this story.

Find it on Amazon and Goodreads.

And the same group is putting out an all-new collection this fall! You can add it to Goodreads now. 

To celebrate the release of the three Christmas stories, the authors are giving away an Amazon gift card!

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“Molly & Anna” by Sarah Holman

Today, I’m excited to share about the release of the individual stories that were originally part of the A Very Bookish Christmas novella collection. Each story takes elements from classic books and incorporates them into the story. This weekend, three of the four stories will now be available on Kindle! Today I'll be reviewing one of the books; my second review will come tomorrow! :)

Molly & Anna

 by Sarah Holman

Synopsis: 

With the death of her sister near Christmas time, Lacie becomes the guardian of two girls of mixed heritage. Caring for them is harder than she ever imagined. She’s confronted daily with memories she would rather forget and her own prejudice. No matter what, she is determined to give her two nieces the best Christmas she can.
Molly hasn’t seen her aunt Lacie in a long time, but she is determined to be glad, like in the book Pollyanna. It isn’t as easy. She misses her parents, her home, the mission her parents worked in, and her friends. She cannot understand why Aunt Lacie doesn’t like to talk about her father, but she will do whatever she needs to make a new start for her and her sister. 

(From Amazon)

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

5 stars & 5/10 hearts. What a perfect retelling! This is all a retelling should be, in my opinion—similar enough for one to quickly know which book it’s retelling, but different enough to be its own unique story. I think all of the main elements of “Pollyanna” were in this story, and as someone who’s known, loved, and reread “Pollyanna” all my life, I was so happy with this story. I totally loved how Sarah tackles a difficult subject and how she handles it. It’s really very well done!! Lacie’s journey was lovely & the ending was prefect. Jared was amazing too. And I loved the two little girls. Also, the father sounds like a simply wonderful man and I quite admired him, even if he was never in an actual scene. I’m looking forwards to the next retelling! 

A Favourite Quote: “‘You know that even though her husband is real mean, she never says anything bad about him? She doesn’t lie about him either, she just talks about how good God is to her.’”

A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘Since I was there, Miss Hines tried to recruit me into helping with the play.’

“Aunt Lacie shook her head. ‘That woman would have the whole church involved if she could. Did she persuade you?’

“... ‘She sure did[.]’

“‘I’m glad you’re going to help.’ Molly liked Jared. 

“‘You are? ... Well, that settles it. I don’t want you to be unglad.’”

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

Get this book:

America | Canada

Classic that inspired the story: Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter.

Random fun fact: Jared from this story might possibly be the same Jared featured in another of Sarah’s Christmas stories, Distorted Glass (but he was younger in that story).

Find it on Amazon and Goodreads.

And the same group is putting out an all-new collection this fall! You can add it to Goodreads now. 

To celebrate the release of the three Christmas stories, the authors are giving away an Amazon gift card!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

“Jo's Boys” by Louisa May Alcott

Jo's Boys, 
& How They Turned Out

by Louisa May Alcott

Synopsis: 

Best known for the novels Little Women and Little Men, Louisa May Alcott brought the story of her feisty protagonist Jo and the adventures and misadventures of the March family to an entertaining, surprising, and bittersweet conclusion in Jo’s Boys. Beginning ten years after Little Men, Jo’s Boys revisits Plumfield, the New England school still presided over by Jo and her husband, Professor Bhaer. Jo remains at the center of the tale, surrounded by her boys—including rebellious Dan, sailor Emil, and promising musician Nat—as they experience shipwreck and storm, disappointment and even murder.
Popular for over a century, Alcott’s series still holds universal appeal with its powerful and affectionate depiction of family—the haven where the prodigal can always return, adversity is shared, and our dreams of being cherished, despite our flaws, come true. In this edition of Jo’s Boys, readers once again experience a treasured classic by one of America’s best-loved writers.

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

 5+ stars & 8/10 hearts. This is the perfect wrap-up for the Little Women Series. Everyone has grown up perfectly (not a common thing in lengthy series!). This book is just as funny as the other two and it’s just as full of wisdom and truth. I still love Dan so much, and Emil (kind of sad Franz isn’t around anymore!) Josie & Ted are a pair, and Rob is a dear. It does have much more women’s rights in it than the other two, and a few instances of swearing, but other than that it’s lovely.

A Favourite Quote: “‘‘I don’t see but I must, and “leave the consequences to the Lord”, as Marmee used to say when she had to decide, and only saw a step of the road.’”

A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Dan pitied him more than he dared to show, and this one tender emotion in that dark time was like the little flower that sprung up between the stones of the prison yard and saved the captive from despair, in the beautiful old story.”

A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘I stir him up a bit, and he steadies me a great deal. You and father do the same, you know. Nice plan. I like it’; and Ted felt that he had settled the matter capitally.

“‘Mother won’t thank you for comparing yourself to her, Ted. I’m flattered at being like father in any way. I try to be,’ answered Rob, as they laughed at Ted’s compliment.”

Purchase this book: 

Canada | America

“I Don't Dance ” by Jesseca Wheaton

I Don't Dance 

by Jesseca Wheaton

Synopsis: 

Ty and Jen have been friends for nearly as long as anyone can remember. But when Ty goes off to college and leaves her behind, he has to face the reality that he cares for her as more then just a friend. 
As graduation approaches and with only one summer left before he begins basic training, Ty must make a decision. Military life is never easy; is it fair to force it on the one he loves? 
In the midst of wrestling with the question and coming to the realization that summer is quickly drawing to a close, Ty struggles to face questions he cannot answer, and is forced to examine his own heart. 
Is it possible that God has a future for him with Jen? Or will the summer close with only memories of days gone by? 
Their relationship would be old fashioned. But that was okay. Because old fashioned and whimsical fit perfectly with a southern summer.

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

5+ stars & 6/10 hearts. I was a bit wary of this book, but I fell in love almost immediately and loved it more and more as I read on. It was so sweet and summery and whimsical and... beautiful. The romance astonished me by its purity. There were a few hugs, maybe a cheek/hair kiss or two, and some dancing, but other than that it was perfectly pure. The chaperons were amazing and Mr. Davis was a great father. I loved Ty and Jen, but my favourite was by far Mike. How can I explain? He LIVED for me. I enjoyed him and his banter with Ty so, so much. I loved the themes—it tied together so beautifully and honestly, I didn’t expect them. I should have known. I love Jesseca Wheaton’s writing because of its beauty, both writing style, plots, and spiritual lessons. I kept expecting the story to end and turned the pages desperately only to find it continued—and ended perfectly. This author’s works just get better and better—and I’m so eager for her next story.

A Favourite Quote: “‘Ty, let’s not focus on how many days we have till you leave. Let’s instead focus on the time we’ve had. And the time we have left.’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “She tilted her head, and the last rays of the sun caught her braid and turned it into tarnished gold.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘You got Mike home?’
“‘Yeah, we didn’t have any problems.’ Well, besides the fact that Mike had managed to figure out the password for his phone.”

Get this book:

Canada | America 

“Window Fellow” by Faith Potts

Window Fellow

 by Faith Potts

Synopsis: 

Annalyse never expected to make a friend through a window, but her talks with the guy who lives next to the bus stop have become a favorite part of her day. But when a sudden schedule change reveals a secret he hadn't meant to share, is there anything she can do to make things right? Or is their window friendship broken beyond repair?
(From Amazon)

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

4 stars & 4/10 hearts. I remembered Window Fellow from when Faith posted it on her blog, and I remembered loving it. So when Faith said she was publishing and offered ARCs, I jumped at the chance! This story was just as sweet and funny and whimsical as I remembered. I love Annalyse and I actually relate to her now that I'm doing university, haha! The relationship was super sweet and cute, though not how I would go about or recommend going about. ;) There were also one or two euphemisms. But it was very humorous and so sweet, and just had such a whimsy vibe to it! <3

A Favourite Quote: “‘Thank you for the note.’
“... ‘You’re welcome. It wasn’t much of one.’
 “‘It was what was written in between the lines that meant the most.’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “I’d looked at the house before, but never really had time to study it. Now, I did so in detail. It had an aura of belonging, like it had always been there and would always be, because that’s just the way some things are meant to be.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘How do I know you’ll be here tomorrow?’
“He shrugged, then held his hands palm-up. ‘I’d say we have quite the pattern going.’
“‘Every pattern has been broken.’ I wasn’t actually sure if that was true or not, but it sounded intelligent and halfway philosophical, so I went with it.”

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

Get this book:

America | Canada

(PS. This book is free on Amazon through the end of the month!)

“Little Men” by Louisa May Alcott

Little Men

by Louisa May Alcott

Synopsis: 
At Plumfield, an experimental school for boys, the little scholars can do very much as they please, even slide down banisters. For this is what writer Jo Bhaer, once Jo March of Little Women, always wanted: a house “swarming with boys…in all stages of…effervescence.” At the end of Little Women, Jo inherited the Plumfield estate from her diamond-in-the-rough Aunt March. Now she and her husband, Professor Bhaer, provide their irrepressible charges with a very different sort of education—and much love. In fact, Jo confesses, she hardly knows “which I like best, writing or boys.” Here is the story of the ragged orphan Nat, spoiled Stuffy, wild Dan, and all the other lively inhabitants of Plumfield, whose adventures have captivated generations of readers.

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

 5+ stars & 9/10 hearts. I love this book so much. It’s lighter and more humorous in mood than the first book, since it deals with children—ranging from babies to sixteen years. I love the little lessons that fill these pages. I love the characters and the humour. Of course I tear up at the death scene! </3 I don’t agree with everything, but I love the wisdom that the Bhaers show so much. Dan is my favourite—I love him so much. <33 This is a great family read-aloud and perfect for all ages.

A Favourite Quote: “‘I am proud to have been his friend, and would rather leave my children the legacy he leaves his than the largest fortune ever made. Yes! Simple, generous goodness is the best capital to found the business of this life upon. It lasts when fame and money fail, and is the only riches we can take out of this world with us. Remember that, my boys; and if you want to earn respect and confidence and love follow in the footsteps of John Brooke.’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Nat looked with delight from the babbling brown water below to the green arch above, where bees were making a musical murmur as they feasted on the long yellow blossoms that filled the air with sweetness.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Teddy, still in coachman’s dress, came in blowing a tin fish-horn melodiously, and the proud sisters each tried to put on the slipper. Nan insisted on playing cut off her toe with a carving-knife, and performed that operation so well that the herald was alarmed, and begged her to be “welly keerful.” Cinderella then ... slipped her foot into the slipper, and announced, with satisfaction, “I am the Pinsiss.” [T]he Prince ran in, dropped upon his knees, and kissed the hand of Goldilocks with great ardor, while the herald blew a blast that nearly deafened the audience. The curtain had no chance to fall, for the Princess ran off the stage to her father[,] while the Prince and herald had a fencing-match with the tin horn and wooden sword."

Purchase this book: 

Canada | America

“A Song of Home” by Ryana Lynn Miller

About the Series:

The Battle for Heritage Series (BHS) is an in-progress five book series on the War Between the States. Each book follows one year of the war, focusing on the Southern perspective. Unlike most books on this period, BHS does not focus on slavery but rather the reason the war was fought: the issue of states’ rights and the right of the people to restore the rightful government as designed by our forefathers. But even though this is important, this is not the main goal of BHS.

Every book includes a clear Gospel presentation, as well as other biblical topics designed to strengthen the believer and disciple the new convert. If you take nothing else from these stories, please take the lessons from Scripture to heart. If not, the goal is missed.

The series follows the Mason family, Silas and Ellen, and their children, Richard, Seth, Dixie, Michael, Thomas, and Virginia Rose, through the years 1861-1865. Having family on both sides allows the reader to discover viewpoints of both sides, though the story is focused on the South’s point of view. Having friends in the North and South, Ryana Lynn endeavors to keep things kind, while realistic and giving the facts.

BHS has reached people in a multitude of states, her best readerships being located in North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Ohio. It is her prayer that someday, someone will come to know Christ through her writings. Her life verse, Jude 22, sums up her writing mission: “And of some, have compassion, making a difference.” 

Books can be purchased here.

A Song of Home

(The Battle for Heritage Series, #4)

 by Ryana Lynn Miller

Synopsis: 

In war time, everyone is called to fulfill their patriotic duty. But everyone's duty is not the same. For some, it's to soldier on the field of battle. For others, it is to stay back and defend the home front. Still others keep the soldiers clothed and cared for.

“We’re gonna finish this,” Seth murmured. “We’re gonna finish this fight once and for all. They can’t just come in and threaten a man’s family and livelihood just because they feel like it.”

“It’s a hard lesson to teach,” Silas interjected. “The Patriots were outmanned and outgunned, but they taught the redcoats right well. God’s will is most important, and God is the best Teacher. Sometimes He does it Himself, and other times He uses men to teach the lesson.”

Join the Mason family as another year of war dawns with no end in sight. Despair, hatred and death surround them...will they ever know a time of hope, love and peace again? 

Bring your family along on another history packed journey full of battle, music, victory and defeat. The war ain't over ‘til the sabers quit clashing!

About the Author:

Ryana Lynn Miller has a unique way of blending her love for history with her love for the Savior. Her continued research is fueled by her desire for truth and details. Her main concern, both historically and Biblically, is to show the past to the present to secure the future.

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎

3 stars & 3/10 hearts. Not gonna lie, I was really scared to start this book! Book 3 really tore my heart and got me very emotional, and I was afraid book 4 would as well. I was grateful to find that it didn’t (…maybe ‘cause I forgot who everybody was…). Some statements that characters make, & the attitude towards certain people, & some of the songs bothered me (I skipped most of the songs on purpose), and I feel like neither side is portrayed in a wholly fair or accurate way. But towards the end the book really made me think. The episode of the Davises’ adopted son really made me rethink some statements by Jefferson Davis that I’ve read. I also got a clearer idea of what the South was fighting for here, and though I still disagree with them—no one has been able to satisfactorily explain to me which side was in the right and which was in the wrong, but from what I’ve read and heard, I believe the North was morally in the right—but I can now honour them for the sacrifices they did for what they thought was right. It was very nice to meet old friends, and see them continue to grow and change (Constance Angelica has a new fan over here!!). I’m both eager for and dreading book 5… ;) 

A Favourite Quote: “‘It’s fellows like Spencer who can keep us going. Finding the everyday things in life to smile about even when the world is caving in around you.’” 

A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘Me and some others spotted the Union sailors and sounded the alarm. (You know, spring the rattle, ring the bell, yell at each other, light bonfires and, if you’re like me, pray to live to tell the tale because your friend is half asleep and tottering around with a flaming torch near the powder! Not very comforting!) … We had a log boom in front of the Albemarle for protection. Cushing and his men turned around. We thought they were retreating, so we let loose a wild Rebel Yell. 

“’Our joy was short lived though. Alas, they spun around and charged the boom at full speed. They got stuck on it and found themselves staring into the mouth of a cannon. Next thing I knew, there were two ear busting explosions. I jest not, I couldn’t hear for half an hour! War is not a healthy business. 

“’The fellows told me later that the Confederates ordered the yankees to surrender. Instead, they abandoned ship. With the Albemarle sinking fast (my torch toting friend pulled me to safety,) small boats were sent out…’”

*I received an ARC of this book from the author in return of my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my own opinions.*

Purchase this book.

(Note: A Song of Home is set to press during this tour. Books can be ordered and they will be shipped as soon as they arrive. Those who order will have the option to receive an e-copy when their payment is received for their print copy.)

The Giveaway!

The giveaway is for e-copies of all 4 books in The Battle for Heritage Series for 1 recipient, open to international participants. :) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

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“Jayne's Endeavour” by Lauren Compton

A 19th century tale of mystery and intrigue set in colonial Australia. 

When puzzling strangers appear and odd things start to happen, eighteen-year-old Jayne Reid and her two younger sisters must find a solution—or lose everything. Journey with Jayne as she struggles to change fear into boldness and boldness into a trusting relationship with her Heavenly Father.

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction.

Age Group: YA Adult (12-18).

Page Count: 276 pages.

Release Date: 1st of June, 2020.

 

Author Bio: 

Lauren Compton lives in Australia on a sheep farm—surrounded by mountains and plenty of Aussie wildlife! From a young age she has loved books and writing-related things (yep, that includes spending ages in the writing supplies department!). Now she has embarked on a mission to write books that both entertain AND encourage. Her desire is to weave stories that point readers to her Heavenly Father while at the same time being a whole lot of fun! 

Website

Blog

Goodreads

Amazon Author Page

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About the Series:

The JOY Series follows three sisters on a quest to keep their parents’ legacy and dreams alive. Loaded with 19th century Australian adventure, it’s a series full of intrigue, adventure, and faith for ages 12 and up!

Jayne's Endeavour

(The JOY Series, Book 1)

 by Lauren Compton

Synopsis: 

Mysterious strangers, a Scripture verse, and a threat. 

“Reids never give up.” The words once held so much truth. But at eighteen, Jayne Reid is beginning to wonder if she can live up to that standard.

When puzzling strangers appear and odd things start to happen, Jayne and her two younger sisters must find a solution—or lose everything.

What mystery lurks in the shadows of the Australian bush? Who is the man in town who thinks he can buy and bully anyone he wishes? And is it all somehow connected with their new farmhand?

Journey with Jayne as she struggles to change fear into boldness and boldness into a trusting relationship with her Heavenly Father. What adventure lies ahead?

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

5 stars & 5/10 hearts. The first time I heard of this book, it was unfinished. But I immediately wanted to read it. (Australia?? Sign me up. And also, just LOOK at that gorgeous cover!!!). I was so excited to get an ARC of this book. I wasn’t sure what to expect, besides that it would be squeaky clean. I was delighted! This book was indeed perfectly and refreshingly clean. I loved the message, all about trusting God and finding joy—it’s one I relate to a lot. I loved the girls’ names, too, and what they meant—such a lovely pattern!! The sisters were all amazing, and I really loved Aiden & Imogen too (can’t wait to hear their story!). The mystery/excitement was well done, but not spooky, and I appreciate that. This book was very well written, especially for a historical fiction, and it is very Australian. I highly recommend it and I am so eager to get my hands on Book 2!! 

A Favourite Quote: “‘Please God, give me strength.’ A response echoed in her heart. The joy of the Lord is your strength. Delight in the Lord, for God is always gracious.”

A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Yvonne started humming. The sound filled the small house with its sweetness, chasing away some of the gloom that lurked in the corners of the home and hearts of the girls[.]”

A Favourite Humorous Quote: “The next house was Mrs Sterling’s. As she wondered if she could just leave the items by the front door without knocking, her shoulders slumped. There was one undeniable problem with that option. If she didn’t knock, she wouldn’t be able to collect the money they’d worked so hard to earn. A bird flitted past her head, singing. She glared at it. What was there to sing about?”

*I received an ARC of this book from the author in return of my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my own opinions.*

| Purchase Direct from Author | 

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Blog Tour Giveaway:

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Jayne’s Endeavour Blog Tour Schedule

Monday 25^th May

Abby Rose @ Photos by Abby Rose | Review

Tuesday 26^th May

Leona @ Great Books for God’s Girls | Review and Excerpt

Wednesday 27^th May

Becky @ Blossoms and Blessings | Review and Exclusive Giveaway

Erika @ Resting Life | Review and Excerpt

Thursday 28^th May

Katja @ Old-Fashioned Book Love | Review

Malachi @ Brainstorms with Rain | Book Spotlight

Monday 1^st June—Release Day!!

Kaitlyn @ Maidens for Modesty | Review and Guest Post

Lauren @ Novels That Encourage | Release Day Post

Tuesday 2^nd June

Rebekah @ Read Another Page | Review and Author Interview

Wednesday 3^rd June

Kassie @ Soldier Girl Stories | Review and Exclusive Giveaway

Esther @ Purposeful Learning | Book Spotlight, Recipe

Thursday 4^th June

Amanda @ With a Joyful Noise | Book Spotlight, Guest Post

Monday 8^th June

Ryana Lynn @ Life of Heritage | Review, Author Interview, Exclusive Giveaway

Tuesday 9^th June

Michaela @ Tangled Up in Writing | Review and Book Spotlight

Abigail @ Read, Review, Rejoice | Book Spotlight and Guest Post

Wednesday 10^th June

Sydney @ Singing Librarian Books | Review, Excerpt, Author Interview

Thursday 11^th June

Tara @ Tower in the Plains | Review and Recipe

Laura @ Beautiful Things | Book Spotlight

Lauren @ Novels That Encourage | Tour Wrap Up

Be sure to go check out this book! It is so good! I enjoyed it so much. :) Congratulations, Lauren!