June McCrary Jacobs's Blog: ~ Author June McCrary Jacobs ~

  

~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~ --  'A Texas Easter Blessing'  -- Author Mindy Obenhaus   

 

[image error] Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for   A Texas Easter Blessing by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

  

About the Book:  [image error]
     Title:   A Texas Easter Blessing      Series:   Legacy Ranch #3     Author:   Mindy Obenhaus     Publisher:   Love Inspired Books     Release Date:   February 24, 2026     Genre:   Inspirational Contemporary Christian Romance 
   A new ranch home could lead to a new family. 
 After his marriage fails, single father Ryder Sinclair returns to his hometown with his young son to care for his ailing mother. He’s surprised to run into his teenage crush, Kendall Hunt, whose career as a professional chef has been shaken by scandal. As the two work together to save an Easter event usually hosted by Ryder’s mother, Kendall finds herself longing for this sense of family with Ryder and little Shepard. But when she has a chance to go back to the life she once knew, will she choose the dream she’s spent years chasing…or the new dream that has taken hold of her heart? 

EXCERPT:

“I’m sorry I’ve been behaving like a jerk.”

The corners of her pretty mouth tilted upward. “Oh.”Dropping her arms, she shifted from one sneaker-clad foot to the next. “In thatcase, please, go on.”

“You’ve brought something to Shepard’s life that he’snever really had.”

Her brow puckered. “Such as…?”

“The way you interact with him. You treat him as if he’sspecial. That his thoughts and opinions matter.”

“That’s just common decency, Ryder. You know, the whole‘do unto others.’”

“Yes, but he rarely got that from his mother.”

“What does that have to do with you behaving like ajerk?” One eyebrow arched in a playful manner.

He stretched out his arms before clasping his hands atophis head, knowing what he was about to say was going to make him look evenworse.

“I was afraid he’d get attached to you only to bedisappointed when you leave.” There, he said it.

 

MY REVIEW:

A realistic story about moving forwardafter suffering emotionally-traumatic setbacks at the hands of others . . .

Kendall Hunt has returned to LegacyRanch after losing her job as a restaurant chef because of the lies, betrayal,and deceit of her boss. Her self-esteem is in the basement, and she needs sometime to process what has happened so she can decide how to move forward into abrighter future.

Ryder Sinclair, a single fatheroriginally from the same small community as Kendall, returns to Hope Crossingto help care for his mother, Ms. Renee, who is suffering from cancer.

Ryder's four-year-old son, Shepard, is asweet bundle of energy, curiosity, and affection who brings a smile to everyonehe's around. Some of my favorite moments in the story were when Shepard or hisgrandmother, Ms. Renee, are in the scene.

After several missed opportunities toresume his high school romance with Kendall, Ryder finally realizes he is unfairlycomparing Kendall to his former wife, Shepard's mother. Once Ryder gives hisworries over to the Lord in prayer, he and Kendall begin to communicate openlyabout their feelings for each other and their relationship.

As with all of this author's books,there is a very tangible faith thread running throughout the entire story—anelement I truly appreciate! The story is completely clean in language andcontent.

I received a copy of this book from theauthor as a member of her launch. All of my thoughts and opinions shared hereare solely my own.

 

PURCHASE LINKS:   Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon |  Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | BookBub | BookshopMore Books from this Series:

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About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching heartwarming romance movies.

Connect with Mindy by visiting www.MindyObenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of A Texas Easter Blessing and $25 Amazon gift card!

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Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 4, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 11, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

  

 

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 ~ WEDNESDAY CHRISTIAN ROMANTIC SUSPENSE FEATURE ~ --  'WHITEOUT'   -- Two Romantic Suspense Novellas   AUTHORS LYNETTE EASON & DANI PETTREY 

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Whiteout 

by Dani Pettrey & Lynette Eason, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 💖🎿❆❅❄🖂💖🎿❆❅❄🖂💖About the Book 

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Title:   Whiteout 
Author:  Lynette Eason and Dani Pettrey 
Publisher:  Bethany House Publishers 
Release Date:  February 3, 2026 
Genre:  Romantic Suspense Novella Collection

Brace yourself for double the suspense in these snowbound adventures as an avalanche forces two couples to face down their enemies in a ski resort shut off from the outside world. 

In Buried in Shadows by Dani Pettrey, Cassandra Parker arrives at her best friend's destination wedding, praying her stalker hasn't tracked her to Colorado. Also part of the wedding party is Sheriff Joel Brunswick, the man she stunned by leaving at the altar to hide a dangerous truth. When an avalanche strands their ski group in an abandoned lodge, it becomes chillingly clear that Cassandra's stalker has followed her . . . and he's willing to kill to make her his. 

In Snowbound Secrets by Lynette Eason, Dr. Maya Sullivan fully intends to escape her past and finish planning a retreat for military veterans at the ranch she's inherited. Unfortunately, her plans go sideways when an avalanche traps her in a Colorado ski resort. An unexpected reunion with her high school crush forces her to confront past wounds, but she soon realizes someone is targeting her, and their search for a shadowy enemy becomes a matter of life and death. 

A gripping romantic suspense novella collection from bestselling authors Lynette Eason and Dani Pettrey featuring second-chance romance, trapped together forced proximity, military and law enforcement heroes, a small-town destination wedding, and snowbound survival at a Colorado ski resort.

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EXCERPT FROM BURIED IN SHADOWS BY AUTHOR DANI PETTREY:

Cassie bolted upright in bed, sweat- drenched and lungs burning. Hergaze flashed to her bedroom door. Still locked with the bar across it.

Windows. She darted a glance at each. All down. The extra locks she’dinstalled holding.

Struggling for a solid breath, she got to her feet, the floor frigid beneaththem.

Reaching in her nightstand, she retrieved her SIG, clasping the gun inher left hand.

You’re overreacting. It’s been a year. He’s not here.

Make sure, a voice whispered on the howling wind.

She grasped the bar and, taking a deep breath, lifted it up and openedthe door to darkness. Grabbing the flashlight she’d positioned on her dresser,she clicked it on and stepped into the hallway.

Sweeping the house in fear he’d be hiding around the next corner, shemoved in a swift manner, following the pattern she used every night to clearher home before bed. Every night and every time she returned to her home.

It’d be a year without a note. Without any sign of him, but he terrorizedher still.

When she reached the kitchen, her rigid muscles eased some,her breathless shallow.

Thank you, Lord.

She leaned back against the kitchen counter, her gaze falling to heropen cookbook in its wooden stand on the granite countertop.

She lifted her flashlight, centering on the book.

Horror coursed through her at the sight of the linen envelope.

He was back.

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MY REVIEW:

Fasten your seatbelt and tighten up yourshoulder harness! These novellas by two of the genre's top authors will keepyou second-guessing your suspicions until the very end . . .

Buried in Shadows written byAuthor Dani Pettrey: 

I have enjoyed reading several of thisauthor's books in the past few years, and I am never disappointed by her uniquecharacters and settings. She has an uncanny way of weaving tension, danger,romance, and faith together to create memorable stories for her readers.

The setting for this story is adestination wedding at a ski lodge in Silver Pines, Colorado. Cassie Parker waspursued by a violent stalker for a year before he ceased contacting her. It'sbeen a year of no contact, but she has not been able to let go of the stressand strain the stalker has forced upon her.

Sheriff Joel Brunswick, Cassie's former fiancéand brother of the bride, is also a member of the wedding party. He wasdevastated by Cassie's abandonment at the altar and still loves her deeply.

The wedding party includes sevenbridesmaids and seven groomsmen who are enjoying a variety of adventure snowactivities when a massive avalanche strands the large group at the resort. Thegroup is able to get past the avalanche to find shelter in an abandoned skilodge with no electricity and no water. What it does provide is the perfectsetting for a romantic suspense novel filled with close calls, grippingtension, red herrings, and some excellent law enforcement skills which benefitthe entire group.

This story is completely clean inlanguage and content. The faith thread is strong and well-written.

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Snowbound Secrets written byAuthor Lynette Eason:

I have read a few of this author's previousnovels, and I appreciate the way she introduces diverse characters into herstories. I come from a family with a long military history which makes me a fanof military fiction.

This story, set at the Silver PinesResort in Colorado, includes diverse characters along with several militaryveterans who are dealing with their own horrible memories from their time spentin combat.

Dr. Maya Sullivan has every intention ofovercoming her combat nightmares, but has not found the right combination ofthings that will make her goal a reality.

During the trip, Maya and fellowveterans from her childhood, Gideon and Vance, are trapped after a severeavalanche closes the entrance to resort. There is no internet service or phoneservice, so everyone is closed off from the rest of the world.

As the plot deepens, sinister activitiesbegin to occur and Maya and Gideon realize someone is trying to kill Maya. Thequestion is why? The pair workstogether to solve the mystery at the same time they are struggling to stayalive.

Fans of this genre will enjoy theromance lingering beneath the surface along with the strong faith thread woventhroughout the story. The story is completely clean in language and content.

********************

I received a copy of this book from thepublisher through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions sharedhere are solely my own.

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PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Bethany House | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

About the Authors[image error]

With over a million copies sold worldwide, Dani Pettrey’s novels have captivated readers who crave adrenaline-laced suspense fused with faith, redemption, and heart. A three-time Christy Award finalist, Dani’s books have also earned Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, and HOLT Medallion awards, affirming her place as a beloved voice in inspirational romantic suspense. Known for her authentic characters and plot twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats, Dani writes with a passion for stories that not only thrill but point toward God’s unrelenting grace and love. When she’s not dreaming up danger and devotion, Dani enjoys beach days, espresso-fueled chats, and time with her family. A natural encourager, she also mentors aspiring writers and speaks at events, believing in the power of story to inspire hope and bring people together.

Connect with Dani by visiting danipettrey.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Lynette Eason is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of Twilight Tactics and Deadly Charade. She has written many thrilling romantic suspense series, including Lake City Heroes, Extreme Measures, Danger Never Sleeps, Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and Elite Guardians. Learn more at LynetteEason.com.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card, snowflake journal and wintry pen, a winter wonderland candle and arctic white hot chocolate!

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Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 3, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 10, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️

 ~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~ --  'TRACING A KIDNAPPER'S TRAIL' --  AUTHOR KATY LEE

 ❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️

 

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Tracing a Kidnapper's Trail  by Katy Lee, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

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About the Book 

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Title:   Tracing a Kidnapper's Trail 
Series:   K-9 Search and Rescue #18 
Author:   Katy Lee 
Publisher:   Love Inspired Suspense 
Release Date:   February 24, 2026 
Genre:   Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Solving an abduction case means a relentless K-9 manhunt… 

When search and rescue worker Hunter Shelton and his bloodhound Libby are called to a crime scene, he discovers his ex-fiancée murdered and her young daughter missing—and he's attacked. Soon, he realizes the little girl may have been taken by drug runners, and could possibly be his own child. With no one else to turn to, Hunter teams up with DEA Agent Marlee Price and her narcotics K-9, despite their rocky history. As they face escalating threats and uncover a rising body count, an old enemy from Marlee's past resurfaces. Will they be able to rescue the child and bring dangerous criminals to justice before time runs out? 

 From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith. 

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EXCERPT:

But why shouldMarlee jump at his call?

Hunter Shelton wasfrom her past and better off left there. But he also had been in distress. Thiscase was more than a missing child, just as he’d said.

Personal.

Someone had beenmurdered. Someone he knew. There were also drugs involved, and that wasMarlee’s specialty.

She felt thetypical excitement for the hunt well up within her. She and Gustav sniffed outdrug houses daily for the pure joy of it. She’d vowed to shut down every one ofthe despicable sites.

For Ben.

But Ben wouldexpect her to help his lifelong best friend now. Could she do this for herbrother? Could she face the man she blamed for Ben’s death? She hadn’t spokento Hunter in eight years and had never planned to again.

Except, here she wasclimbing out of bed, knowing in a few hours, their paths would crossregardless.

 ❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub | Other Places to Buy

About the Author[image error]

#1 Publishers Weekly, best-selling author Katy Lee writes character-driven romantic suspense that thrills and inspires her readers, keeping them coming back for more. She is a multi-award winner and nominee for the Rita Award, the Daphne du Maurier Award, Holt Medallion, and Selah Award, celebrating excellence in mystery and suspense. Katy lives in Utah's beautiful, rugged mountains and is also a special education teacher. She runs a literary nonprofit called Story Haven Writers, helping people write their healing stories from trauma. Keep up with Katy and her latest news, including her monthly newsletter, "Novel Ideas" at www.KatyLeebooks.com.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 VISA gift card with a plush Bloodhound and a matching signed bookmark!

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Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 24, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 3, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 ❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️🦮🔦⌚🐕‍🦺❤️ 

💖🌷🌹🌻🌼🌳🐎🐕💖  ~ THURSDAY ROMANCE FEATURE ~ --  'A RANCHER FOR EASTER'  -- AUTHOR SUSANNE DIETZE  💖🌷🌹🌻🌼🌳🐎🐕💖

 

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Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Rancher for Easter 

 by Susanne Dietze, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

💖🌷🌹🌻🌼🌳🐎🐕💖About the Book 

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Title:   A Rancher for Easter  Series:   Home to Foxtail #3 Author:   Susanne Dietze Publisher:   Love Inspired Release Date:   February 24, 2026 Genre:   Contemporary Romance

An inheritance with strings attached…

Forces him to tie the knot. 
Rancher Thatcher Dalton accidentally triggers a marriage requirement to his inheritance and now must find a wife in six months…or lose his farm. When widowed bookkeeper Bliss Anderson suddenly finds herself without a job, she knows that the adoption of her foster daughter, who has epilepsy, will be in jeopardy—unless she accepts Thatcher’s proposal of a marriage of convenience. As the platonic couple settle into married life and parenthood, they soon find that remaining just friends is harder than expected. But when a long-held family secret threatens their growing happiness, it’ll take a little girl’s Easter wish to turn them into a real family…   💖🌷🌹🌻🌼🌳🐎🐕💖 EXCERPT: 
He must have caught the way her gaze held on a simple but elegant marquise-cut diamond on an unadorned gold band, because he tapped the glass over it. “Could we see this one, please?”

The clerk handed it over, so she might as well try it on.

And then she had to blink to keep the tears at bay.

“What’s wrong?” Thatcher leaned sideways against the counter. “If you hate that one, try another.”

That wasn’t the problem at all. “I don’t hate it.”

“Ah.” His lips twitched. “It’s pretty, Bliss.”

“It is.”

“And it’s perfect on your hand, like it was made just for you.”

“It’s the right size and everything.” She wished she didn’t like it so much, but it was precisely the style of ring she always imagined when she was a girl.

“Do you want to try another on?” She could hear the smile in his voice.

She shook her head. “I don’t need this. I’m fine with a plain band, Thatcher.”

“You deserve better than fine, Bliss. And this will be on your finger for a long time.”
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REVIEW:

A story with a good blend of characters,a lovable trained service canine, a beautiful setting, and an assortment ofreal-life problems for the entire group to work through together with theLord's guidance . . .

When bookkeeper, Bliss Anderson, returnsto her hometown in the Cuyamaca Mountains, she hopes to make a new start. Sheinherited her grandfather's home in Goldenrod, California, and it's the perfectplace to restart her life after her husband's death.

Bliss is fostering nine-year-old Juniperand things are going well for both of them. The young girl is adjusting to hernew school and making some friends. Juniper's service dog, Coco, is trained toalert and respond when the young girl may have an epileptic seizure upcoming.The dog is serious about her work, and she is treasured by Bliss and Juniper.

In my two decades as an elementaryschool educator, I worked with a few families whose students had epilepsy. Ifelt that the author did an excellent job of realistically portraying thechallenges presented by this chronic neurological disorder of the brain to thepatient along with their family and friends.

Bliss and Juniper's home is next toFoxtail Farms and so the two frequently spend time with the Daltons who own andoperate Foxtail Farms and the various businesses which are located on the farm.Sisters Dove, Natalie, and Sadie inherited the farm from their father, Asa,along with their cousin Thatcher Dalton. Asa Dalton's legacy is a mixed blessingas the sisters and their cousin try to adjust to the stringent controls Asa placedin his Will.

This story is filled with personalgrowth for many, if not all, of the characters. They must learn how to forgive,accept, and trust in order to move forward to a future filled with hope,harmony, and love.

The story is completely clean inlanguage and content. The faith thread is strong and well-presented.

I received a copy of this book from theauthor through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions sharedhere are solely my own.

 

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PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | BookBub | BookshopMore Books from this Series:

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About the Author

Susanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's an award-winning, RWA RITA® nominated author who's seen her work on the Publisher's Weekly and ECPA Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and enjoys fancy-schmancy tea parties and curling up on the couch with a costume drama.

Connect with Susanne by visiting www.susannedietze.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of A Rancher for Easter and $25 Starbucks gift card!

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Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 26, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 5, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

  

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💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘

~ TUESDAY HISTORICAL MYSTERY FEATURE ~ --  'WHISPERS IN THE SNOW'  -- AUTHOR HEIDI ELJARBO     💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘

 

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Whispers in the Snow  by Heidi Eljarbo, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘

 

About the Book

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Title:   Whispers in the Snow 
Series:   Heartwarming Christmas 
Author:   Heidi Eljarbo 
Publisher:  Independently Published 
Release Date: ‎  January 27, 2026 
Genre:  Cozy Historical Mystery Romance

Of course, a young woman in Norway during the late nineteenth century can be a successful amateur sleuth, and goodness knows, Cornelia’s days are always more exciting when she can devote her time to resolving a local mystery. 

Cornelia Gran is a dedicated daughter, friendly and kind; although, she has an exorbitant amount of curiosity. She devours Arthur Conan Doyle’s magazine articles and tries to follow the fictitious Sherlock Holmes’s investigative examples, but her fascination with solving puzzles always gets her into mischief. 

Each morning, Cornelia reads the newspaper, looking for a conundrum to solve. Searching for clues—and then chronicling her discoveries—thrills her. She certainly finds those activities more entertaining than taking her grandmother’s advice and attending one Christmas ball after another in search of a husband. 

But chaos and danger turn Cornelia’s quiet days upside down when her attempt to find information about the owner of a nearby abandoned cottage takes her into dangerous territory. As winter winds rattle the windows and swirl snowdrifts against the doors, she faces off with a ghost, gets in trouble with the police, and finds herself staring down danger without thinking of the consequences. In the middle of it all, she meets Simon and is captivated by his charm, good looks, and personality. 

Meanwhile, a real killer is after her, and he won’t stop until he gets information she doesn’t have! Christmas, with all its cheery festivities, hygge, and family traditions, has never been more threatened. Cornelia must call on all her investigative skills, not only to stop the ruination of her family’s holiday, but also to make certain Simon and his aunt keep what belongs to them. And maybe, just maybe, the amateur sleuth will discover the meaning of true love. 

Set in a fictitious town in Norway in 1891, this cozy historical mystery is perfect for those who enjoy curious and determined women sleuths, clean and wholesome romance, and the discovery of buried secrets in an abandoned house.   

💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘 

EXCERPT:

December 1891.

THE EVENING WAS DEADLY quiet until it wasn’t. Afaint sound of a dog barking in the distance, the rustling of leaves, and ashot.

Cornelia stared at the words on the paper. Herwriting had already been heavily revised.  She couldn’t quite find the right words todescribe the murder. She turned her gaze to the view outside while tapping herfingertips on the desk. The early December sunlight was just peeking above thehorizon in the East, painting the sky delicious shades of soft pink, yellow,and pale orange. The sun didn’t show its face until after nine at this time ofyear and disappeared again below the skyline only five or six hours later. Suchwere the days in the north in December, becoming ever shorter and darker until thewinter solstice in a couple of weeks’ time.

Already, carriages were heading up and down thedirt road, filled with people on their way to work, visiting, shopping,doctors’ appointments, or other errands.

Cornelia dipped the nib into the ink jar and crossedout the words deadly quiet only to add quiet as the tomb above. She sat andchewed the top of the quill for a while. Why was the tomb quiet? Peoplestanding on the ground outside would be talking, singing, and praying. Theywould most certainly be crying. She made some scribbles and arrows in themargin to indicate the use of her first choice. 

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REVIEW:

An entertaining winter story set in latenineteenth-century Norway . . .

Cornelia Gran—Nella—loves to read andanalyze crime stories. She is especially intrigued by the magazine articleswritten by Author Arthur Conan Doyle featuring his famous character, SherlockHolmes. She spends her time gathering clues in her community and recording herfindings. Writing her own mystery stories is her passion.

When Nella's attention is captured by anarticle in the local newspaper about a small abandoned home in her village, shedecides to discuss the matter with her grandmother in order to get some moreinformation.

Nella learns that the house has beenabandoned for around fifty years and that her Nannie used to be childhoodfriends with the young girl who visited the home each summer.  Nella's curiosity catapults her into her owninvestigation of the property and the circumstances surrounding the previousowners.

I thoroughly enjoyed the independenceand spirited personality of Cornelia. As she navigated the twists and turns ofthe plot, I came to admire how this young woman was approaching her life'sjourney with grit and determination.

The story includes elements of aromance, mystery, and suspense. It is completely clean in language and content.

I received a copy of the book from theauthor through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions sharedhere are solely my own.

💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

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HEIDI ELJARBO grew up in a home full of books, artwork, and happy creativity. She is the author of historical novels filled with courage, hope, mystery, adventure, and sweet romance during challenging times. She’s been named a master of dual timelines and often writes about strong-willed women of past centuries. 

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She lives with her husband on a charming island and enjoys walking in any kind of weather, hugging her grandchildren, and has a passion for art and history. 

Her family’s chosen retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summer and ski the vast white terrain during winter. 

Heidi’s favorites are her family, God's beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.

Connect with Heidi by visiting heidieljarbo.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a paperback copy of Whispers in the Snow and The Relic Thief, plus a $10 Amazon gift card!

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Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 23, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 2, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No shipping restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘☃❄❅❆⛄💘

 

🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡    ~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~ --  'EMBROIDERED LIES AND ALIBIS' -- AUTHOR LOIS WINSTON  

🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡  

 

 

Embroidered Lies and Alibis 

 (An Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mystery) 

by Lois Winston

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About Embroidered Lies and Alibis

 

Embroidered Lies and Alibis (An Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mystery)  

Cozy Mystery       15th in Series      Setting - New Jersey  

Independently Published    Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 10, 2026 

Print length ‏ : ‎ 199 pages    Digital ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1940795812 

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FZDBKCJD  

 

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A Stitch in Time Could Save a Life…

When Anastasia’s mother Flora is offered a free spa vacation from Jeremy Dugan, a man connected to her distant past, Anastasia and husband Zack suspect ulterior motives. After all, too-good-to-be-true often spells trouble. Their suspicions are confirmed when the FBI swoops in to apprehend Dugan. However, Dugan isn’t who he claimed to be, and his arrest raises more questions than answers.

The Feds link Dugan to a string of cons targeting elderly single women across the country, but his seemingly airtight alibi leaves investigators stumped. Then, shortly after his release on bail, he’s kidnapped. A certain segment of New Jersey’s population is known for delivering deadly messages, and the FBI believes Dugan received one of them.

Meanwhile, bodies begin showing up in the newly created public garden across the street from Anastasia and Zack’s home. With two baffling crimes, no clear suspects, scant evidence, and every possible motive unraveling, both the FBI and local law enforcement are once again picking Anastasia’s brain. This time, though, her involvement is far from reluctant. Will she stitch together enough clues before she or someone she loves becomes the killer’s next victim?

Craft project included.

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Crafts with Anastasiaby Author Lois Winston 

AnastasiaPollack, the reluctant amateur sleuth of my Anastasia Pollack CraftingMysteries, is a women’s magazine crafts editor. When she’s not tripping overdead bodies and getting dragged into murder investigations, she spends her daysdesigning quick and easy craft projects for budget-conscious crafters.

I drew uponmy own experiences in the crafts industry to create Anastasia. Like her, I wentto art school. We both decided early on that we didn’t possess the teachinggene. She went to work for the magazine, and I worked as a freelance designerfor craft book publishers, magazines, and kit manufacturers.

One of thereasons I chose to make Anastasia a crafts editor for a magazine was that itenabled me to focus on a different type of craft for each book in my series. Todate, with the recent release of Embroidered Lies and Alibis, there are fifteen novels and threenovellas in the series. All the novels include craft projects.

Today, I’dlike to share with the readers of Reading, Writing & Stich-Metic thedirections for Woven Felt Pillows. You can find other craft projects and ideason the crafts page of my website.

 

Woven FeltPillow

Materials:

(Note: Material amountswill vary depending on size of finished pillow, but 1/2-yd. of felt issufficient for a pillow up to 16” x 16” for the one color also used for thebacking. Less felt is required for the three other strip colors.)

Four colors of felt,non-woven iron-on interfacing, pillow form or fiberfill, basic sewing supplies,DMC #5 Perle Cotton in contrasting color, embroidery needle.

1. Determine the size of thepillow you want. Cut a piece of iron-on interfacing two inches larger than thefinished pillow. (Example: if you want to make a 12” x 12” pillow, cut theinterfacing 14” x 14”.)

2. Cut a series of feltstrips 1” wide by length of interfacing.

3. Place interfacing onflat surface with fusing side up. Alternating two of the felt colors, pinstrips of felt to top of interfacing.

4. Beginning at top,weave alternating strips of remaining colors in and out across pinned strips.

5. Remove pins andcarefully turn pillow top over on ironing board. Fuse interfacing to felt permanufacturer’s directions.

6. Trim edges even.

7. Cut backing felt thesame size as pillow top.

8. With woven side ofpillow top facing up, place top over backing felt. Using one strand of PerleCotton, blanket stitch around pillow, leaving enough of an opening for stuffingfiberfill or inserting pillow form. Stuff with fiberfill or insert pillow form.Blanket stitch opening closed.

Isthere a craft you haven’t seen featured in a crafting cozy mystery but wouldlike to? Post a comment. I’d love to hear your suggestions.

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About Lois Winston

USA Today and Amazon bestselling author Lois Winston began her award-winning writing career with Talk Gertie to Me, a humorous fish-out-of-water novel about a small-town girl going off to the big city and the mother who had other ideas. That was followed by the romantic suspense Love, Lies and a Double Shot of Deception.

Then Lois’s writing segued unexpectedly into the world of humorous amateur sleuth mysteries, thanks to a conversation her agent had with an editor looking for craft-themed mysteries. In her day job Lois was an award-winning craft and needlework designer, and although she’d never written a mystery—or had even thought about writing a mystery—her agent decided she was the perfect person to pen a series for this editor. Thus, was born the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries, which Kirkus Reviews dubbed “North Jersey’s more mature answer to Stephanie Plum.” The series now includes fifteen novels and three novellas. Lois also writes the Empty Nest Mysteries, currently at two novels, and one book so far in her Mom Squad Capers series.

To date, Lois has published twenty-four novels, five novellas, several short stories, one children’s chapter book, and one nonfiction book on writing, inspired by her twelve years working as an associate at a literary agency. To learn more about Lois and her books, visit her at www.loiswinston.com. Sign up for her newsletter to receive an Anastasia Pollack Mini-Mystery. She also blogs regularly at The Stiletto Gang and Booklover’s Bench.

Author's Links:

Website:  http://www.loiswinston.com Newsletter sign-up:  https://dl.bookfunnel.com/dc9t0bjl00 Booklover’s Bench:  https://bookloversbench.com The Stiletto Gang:  https://www.thestilettogang.com Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/722763.Lois_WinstonBookbub:  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lois-winston 

Purchase LinksAmazon Kobo Barnes & Noble Apple Books 

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BLOG TOUR GIVEAWAY!LINK TO ENTER TO WIN A DIGITAL COPY OF THIS BOOK {3 WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN!}
🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡  TOUR PARTICIPANTS:February 11 – Jody's Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT February 12 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT February 13 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT  February 14 – Elizabeth McKenna - Author – SPOTLIGHT February 14 – FUONLYKNEW - SPOTLIGHT February 15 – Cozy Up With Kathy – CHARACTER GUEST POST February 16 – @bibliophile_foodie – REVIEW  February 17 – Jane Reads – AUTHOR GUEST POST February 18 – Boys' Mom Reads! – SPOTLIGHT  February 19 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW February 20 – Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic – CRAFT PROJECT February 21 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT February 21 – Escape With Dollycas IntoA Good Book – SPOTLIGHTFebruary 22 – Sarah Can't Stop Reading Books – REVIEW February 23 – Sarandipity's – CHARACTER GUEST POST February 23 – Sapphyria's Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT February 24 – Christy's Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST  🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡  
🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡🧶🧵✂🔦⏰🪡 

 💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘 ~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~  --  'EYE OF THE MIND'  --AUTHOR SARA DAVISON 💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘 

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💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘 Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Eye of the Mind  by Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!  💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘 About the Book

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Title:  Eye of the Mind 
Author:  Sara Davison 
Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: December 17, 2025 
Genre:  Christian Romantic Suspense (with Thriller elements)

She can't picture his face. 
But he knows hers. 

Firefighter Jules Adler suspects her blind date with Officer Dante de Marco will not go well. When she witnesses a violent crime, the night goes from bad to worse fast. 

Dante, the police sketch artist, is tasked with getting enough details from her to draw the killer. If only Jules could visualize the man’s face. 

She and Dante are forced to spend a lot more time together than either would like, trying desperately to come up with a likeness. The problem is, with a ruthless psychopath closing in, that time is about to run out. 

For fans of fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat suspense, slow-burning romance, humor, and deep issues of faith. 

💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘 

EXCERPT:

Danterested his fingers on the report. “It says here that you witnessed a murder.”

Sheswallowed. “I did.”

Heglanced at the paper. “At eight-forty-five last evening?”

“Thatsounds about right.”

“Weren’twe…”

“Ona date then? Technically, yes. When you left to go to the men’s room, I steppedout into the alley running alongside the building to get some air. I planned tocome back in and tell you I was leaving, except that, before I could, I heard awoman scream. I came out from behind a dumpster to see that man…” Her voicebroke, and she pressed a fist to her mouth.

“Takeyour time. It’s okay.” Dante said the words by rote, the way he’d been taughtand the way he’d said it to a hundred witnesses before. This situation was sounlike any he’d been in, though, that he could barely get them out, with shockand self-recrimination sending currents of white-hot pinpricks stinging acrosshis flesh.

Juleshadn’t left without talking to him. While he was still in the pub, she’d beenjust outside the building, witnessing a man murdering a woman in cold blood. Ifhe hadn’t been such a jerk to her, she wouldn’t have even been there. None ofthis would have happened.

💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘  

MY REVIEW:

🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟   Awell-written Christian Romantic Suspense novella that literally sent chillsdown my spine at pivotal moments in the story . . .

Firefighter Jules Adler is on a blinddate set up by her best friends, and it's not going well at all. Dante de Marcois on the date at the behest of his three older sisters. He couldn't be lessinterested in dating anyone, but he is trying to cooperate with his sisters'request in order to get them off his back.

Dante is surly and aloof during themeet-up, and Jules has already decided to take off as soon as she can excuseherself. When she leaves Dante at their table and goes out to the alley to makea phone call, she witnesses a horrific violent crime. Worse yet, the killer getsa good look at Jules which kicks off a nightmarish game of cat and mouse.

Since Dante is the police department'ssketch artist, he must work closely with Jules to create a drawing of thekiller that can be used to track him down. But there's a problem . . . Juleshas aphantasia, a rare neurological conditionwhich obstructs her ability to create mental images in her mind's eye.Therefore, she is unable to help Dante create the sketch hindering the search forthe culprit.

There is a lot of fast-paced action asthe pair work together to get out of harm's way while trying to stay one stepahead of the killer. Soon they begin to rely upon each other and their bonddeepens.

The book is completely clean in languageand content. The faith thread in the story is strong and inspiring.

I received a copy of this book from theauthor through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my opinions and thoughts sharedhere are solely my own.

 

💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Also Available

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About the Author

Sara Davison is the author of numerous romantic suspense series. A finalist for more than a dozen national writing awards, including the Christy Award, Davison is a HOLT Medallion, Cascade, and two-time Carol Award winner for romantic suspense. She lives in Ontario with her husband, Michael. Like every good Canadian, she loves coffee, hockey, poutine, and apologizing for no particular reason. Get to know Sara better and subscribe to her short, monthly newsletter at ontheedgesuspense.com.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Eye of the Mind plus a $25 Amazon card!

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Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 10, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 17, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

💘📖👁️🔦⌛ 💘📖👁️🔦⌛💘  

📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙

~ WEDNESDAY WESTERN ROMANCE FEATURE ~--  'HER MISTAKEN IDENTITY COWBOY' --AUTHOR KAREN BANEY   

📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙

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Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for   Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy  by Karen Baney, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! 

📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙

About the Book

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Title:   Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy 
Series:  Love at Vargas Ranch #1 
Author:   Karen Baney 
Publisher:   Desert Life Media 
Release Date:   February 3, 2026 
Genre:   Christian Western Romance

He’s running from his twin’s crimes. She’s haunted by the man who betrayed her. Can she open her heart to his identical twin? 

Shannon thought she’d buried the past—until she arrives at Vargas Ranch and sees the face of the man who shattered her trust. The man she swore she’d never forgive. 

Parker has spent his life paying for his brother's sins. False accusations and shattered opportunities follow him everywhere—because no one sees the man behind the face. When Shannon mistakes him for his twin and has him arrested, his fragile fresh start shatters. 

Now forced to work together in the ranch’s equine therapy program, Shannon and Parker must navigate a tense enemies-to-friends journey. As they confront the pain of the past and the pull of unexpected attraction, trust becomes the hardest battle of all. 

She must learn to trust the man her heart keeps mistaking for the one who broke it. Parker must prove he's not his brother before he loses his second chance at love. 

When the past collides with the present, can love build the bridge to healing and forgiveness? 

A heartfelt Christian romance about redemption, mistaken identity, and love that dares to heal. Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy will steal your heart.  

📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙

EXCERPT:

In this scene, Parker steps out of the tack room and runsinto a woman—a stranger to him. The awkward meeting suddenly takes a turn forthe worse.

He steadied her, her floral-scented shampoo lingering in thespace between them, warmth sparking under his skin. Her rounded eyes settledfor a beat or two into something almost apologetic.

Then, as if this day hadn't been bad enough, her eyes litwith fire that could scorch the earth.

"You!"

Parker's shoulders tensed automatically, muscle memory fromtoo many confrontations just like this one. His hands twitched toward his sidesin the same unconscious movement he'd developed after being cuffed so manytimes. The familiar dread settled in his gut like a stone.

Knowing full well he'd never met the woman before in hislife, Parker could only assume Lucas had struck again. He could see it in theway her breathing had gone shallow and quick, how her hands trembled despiteher fierce grip on whatever righteous anger was driving her forward. Thiswasn't just recognition. This was someone whose life Lucas had torn apart, andnow she was staring at his face again. Parker's chest tightened with somethingthat might have been sympathy, if he wasn't about to pay the price for hisbrother's crimes all over again.

📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

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About the Author

 

Karen Baney is a member of Faith Hope & Love Christian Writers and the author of over 30 Christian contemporary cowboy romances and historical romances. She writes faith-laced stories where characters feel like lifelong friends—flawed individuals navigating second chances, redemption, and personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, Karen loves researching the state's rich history and seamlessly weaving real settings and historical details into her novels.

In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry. Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing.  Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. They enjoy exploring Arizona together, discovering new adventures that often influence Karen's stories. Both are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

Connect with Karen by visiting karenbaney.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a "There's no such thing as too many books" tote & makeup bag, plus two slimline inspirational journals, and a signed copy of Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy!

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Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 11, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 18, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙 🐎🐴👢💘📙

 

💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖

~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~
-- 'THE SINGLE MOM'S SECOND CHANCE' --  AUTHOR TARA RANDEL

💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖

 

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💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Single Mom's Second Chance  

by Tara Randel, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖

About the Book   Title:  The Single Mom's Second Chance    Series: A Golden, Georgia Romance #2 

 Author: Tara Randel 
 Publisher: Harlequin Heartwarming 
 Release Date: January 27, 2026 
 Genre: Wholesome Romance

 A fresh start…   
Then an unexpected curveball

When Addie Lane returns to Golden, Georgia, to open her own fitness center, she’s surprised to find her late husband’s best friend, professional baseball player Nolan Travers, offering to invest. Recovering from an injury, Nolan finds solace in helping a friend—and coaching her son Jacob’s baseball team. As the summer continues, their close bond threatens to be undone by Nolan’s expected return to pro ball and Addie’s challenging relationships with her mother and sisters. Only time will tell if their separate paths will pull them apart—or if Addie and Nolan can hit their love out of the park together. 

💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖

EXCERPT:

Addie knew before she turned that she’d find a tallman with an athletic build sauntering in her direction. His ash-blond hairgleamed in the sunlight; slate-gray eyes were focused completely on her.Confidence flowed from him in waves. She felt a smile stretch across her face.

“Nolan,” she called out in greeting.

He stopped to high-five Jacob and the two starteda conversation as they drew closer.

“What are you doing here?” she finally asked whenhe stopped before her. With everything Nolan Travers had going on in his life,it had been seven months since she’d seen him in person. Sure, they textedoften, but it wasn’t the same. Suddenly she realized how much she’d missed him.

Unconsciously, her hand flew up to tuck thoseflyaway stands of hair into her braided ponytail. She couldn’t remember whatoutfit she’d thrown on this morning to supervise practice, but she hoped shedidn’t look a total mess.

He shrugged. “I told you I’d be up for a visit atsome point.” The casual gesture tightened the T-shirt stretching over hisshoulders. “You said you had a lead on an available building to establish thefitness center. I decided to drive up and see what you’d found. Get away fromthe city for a while.”

“Without calling first?” She blinked. “How did youfind me?”

“Jacob let me know he had practice.”

She glanced at her son who sent her a sheepishsmile in return. “We text, Mom.” Then his attention was drawn elsewhere. “Hey,I’m going to pet Billy’s dog.”

As her son took off, it crossed Addie’s mind thather son communicated with Nolan, but having him show up out of the blue, whilean unexpected treat, had questions forming in her head.

“Sorry. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision,” hesaid, stuffing his hands into the pockets of his cargo shorts.

Was it though? 

💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖

 

MY REVIEW:  

Personal growth, forgiveness, overcomingawkward family dynamics, and hope for a bright future make this story ameaningful addition to this clean and wholesome romance series . . .

I have been a fan of the game ofbaseball since I was a young girl, so a story surrounding a professional baseballplayer's injury and a youth baseball team's season instantly engaged myattention.

Addie Lane's late husband, police officeJosh, was best friends with professional baseball pitcher Nolan Travers sincecollege. Now that Josh is gone, Nolan and Addie have become good friends. They’vebeen there for one another through some tough times.

Josh and Addie's young son—Jacob—istrying to overcome his youthful clumsiness to solidify his baseball skills andlooks to Nolan to help him with his skills, but the man also boosts the youngboy's confidence on and off the field.

In addition to her son bonding withNolan over baseball, Addie relies on him to help her with his advice andguidance regarding her dream of opening her own fitness center.  When Nolan offers to be her business partner,Addie is over the moon with happiness.

Read this well-written story to learnhow the main characters overcome their struggles and emerge on the other sideas well-adjusted individuals who have forgiven themselves and others fortraumas of the past.

This book is completely clean inlanguage and content.

I received a copy of this book from theauthor through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions sharedhere are solely my own.

💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖 

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin.com | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

Tara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author. Family values, a bit of mystery and of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets and beautiful weather inspire the creation of heartwarming stories. Tara has received the Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award.

Connect with Tara by visiting tararandel.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card, a reading journal, 'It's a good day to read' tote bag and three autographed print books by the author!

(1) winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card!

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Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 2, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 9, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

   

💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖🧢⚾🧤📘💖

 

 

📕🍅🍝🥄🍲📕🍅🍝🥄🍲📕
~ WEDNESDAY COZY MYSTERY FEATURE ~ --  'CASE OF THE CURVED STAIRCASE'  -- AUTHOR S. K. DERBAN

 📕🍅🍝🥄🍲📕🍅🍝🥄🍲📕

 

 

Case of the Curved Staircase: A Macaroni on Wheels Mystery  

by S.K. Derban

 📕🍅🍝🥄🍲📕🍅🍝🥄🍲📕About Case of the Curved Staircase

 

Case of the Curved Staircase: A Macaroni on Wheels Mystery  

Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series   

Setting - Little Italy, San Diego and San Diego Bay   

Publisher ‏ : ‎ S.K. Derban      Publication date ‏ : ‎ August 27, 2025  

PaperbackPrint length ‏ : ‎ 302    pagesISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 196318811X 

ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1963188110    Digital Print length ‏ : ‎ 273 pages  

ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1963188103     ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FHM8HSH4  

Audiobook ASIN B0FW1BJKX1

 

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The Little Italy entertainment continues in this second book of the Macaroni on Wheels series. Case of the Curved Staircase has more twists and turns than Terza can handle. And, Detective Nicholas Garza is not on the case. Say it isn't so, Nico!Staircases can be fatal, especially on Halloween. After catering a surprise birthday party on the evening of October 30th, Terza returns to the scene of the celebration on the following morning. Instead of being greeted by the happy, party hosts, Terza discovers a dead body at the bottom of the curved staircase. Not again! And this time, Terza's amateur detective skills are landing her directly into personal danger. She would rather be using her chef's knife than having one pointed at her face!As the feisty Italian caterer continues to fill her free time solving crime, she runs head first into a new detective. Unlike Nicholas Garza, the detective now in charge considers Terza a hinderance instead of a help. Fortunately, Jacob Radovan, the medical examiner, continues to be Terza's ally.There is also an unexpected wedding in Case of the Curved Staircase. Readers of Uneven Exchange just might cheer out loud. The almost perfect weather in San Diego allows the bride and groom to take a carriage ride from the wedding venue to the reception ballroom. It's a fairytale come true.Fans of cozy mysteries will revel in solving another murder along with Terza, and will continue to appreciate her zest for life. Readers will be spending more time with the animated Tiepolo family, and especially Terza's father. Ezio's Halloween costume is a moo-ving choice! The Tiepolo's celebrate their loving, family bond as they join together each Sunday. Food, family, and fun! Once again, you may consider this your personal invitation...

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EXCERPT:

Ellington finally resumed. “Let’s move on to the crimescene. Detective Garza may have appreciated your help, but I don’t need it.”

Terza shot him a death stare. “I wasn’t offering.”

“I understand you have a video.”

Terza quickly decided against denying it. “I do. It’s on my phone.”

“That was wrong of you,” Ellington scolded. “Please hand me your phone.”

Terza unlocked her phone and slid it slowly across the table. Without askingpermission, Ellington scrolled through her videos, apparently searching for thecorrect date. He turned the screen. “Is this it?”

She leaned in. “Yes, that’s the one.”

“Did you take any other videos?”

“No, just photos.”

“We’ll get to those next.”

Ellington used Terza’s phone to email her video to him, andthen he pushed the play button.

“Why did you shoot a close up of the carpet?”

“I thought you didn’t want my help.”

His brows lifted. “Curiosity.”

Killed the cat. “Okay.” Terza launched into her theory. Ellington listened, andTerza suspected it was more intently than he wanted her to know.

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Character Guest Post BENEDETTE TIEPOLO

Greetings! My nameis Benedette Tiepolo. I am proud to be Terza's mother. She is my youngestdaughter. Terza’s older sister is named Angeline, and her older brother, ourmiddle child, is named Damiano. His nickname is Dom.

Ezio calls me the loveof his life. My beloved husband, and the best butcher on the planet, is thelove of my life too. Together we own the Tiepolo Mercato in Little Italy, locatedjust a short walk from our home. Terza’s Macaroni on Wheels catering company isalso next door. We both feel blessed to live and work in the same community asa family.

The author of Caseof the Curved Staircase, a Macaroni on Wheels Mystery has included a CharacterCard with my photo. Ciao!

 

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About S.K. Derban 

S.K. Derban resides with her husband in Southern California. Although born in the United States she moved to London within the first three months, and remained in England until the age of five. Her father, an American citizen, was a decorated veteran of the Second World War. Her British mother was involved with the London Royal Ballet Company, and a great fan of the arts. After returning to the United States, Derban’s life remained filled with a love of the theatre, and a passion for British murder mysteries.S.K. Derban’s personal travel and missionary escapades are readily apparent as they shine through into her characters. Readers are often transported virtually across the globe. She has traveled to Hong Kong on five separate occasions to smuggle Bibles into China, and has been to Israel on seven missionary trips. Derban’s other adventures include visits to Bangkok, Greece, Egypt, Italy, and the Caribbean.Beginning with her faith in the Lord, S.K. Derban relies on all aspects of her life when writing. She hopes her books will allow readers to go on holiday without having to pack! 

Author Links:

Website - https://childofthecarpenter.com/  

The Latest Blog - https://childofthecarpenter.com/the-latest/ 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/awriterofmystery/ 

X - https://x.com/skderban 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/s.k.derban/ 

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/sderban/ 

BookBub -https://www.bookbub.com/profile/s-k-derban 

Purchase Links:   Kindle - Paperback - Audio  

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