Let's Catch Up

 

    Hello All,

    I thought I would give an update because it's been pretty quiet around here. 

    At the end of 2023 I found out a loved one had stage four cancer. In the beginning of 2024 there was a broken femur, and three surgeries, after which we weren't sure how much longer we would have with this person. However, God stepped in sending a few doctors to have conversations which resulted in pain management and cancer treatments. These things have kept my loved one here. We are now at the point where having changed between several different chemotherapy courses, treatments are no longer working. Yet, this person is feeling the best they have felt in a long time. So while no more treatments will be happening, and hospice is now in view, I am amazed at the way God has worked. He has kept their pain minimal and their nausea non existent through all treatments. He has sent people to have conversations when needed and continues to show Himself throughout this entire process. At the beginning of 2024 He gave me a tremendous amount of peace, and that peace has not left me for even a second. I am so grateful I don't have to go through any part of life without Him. That was the biggest news making everything else seem minor in comparison, but I am going to share other changes because God doesn't just dwell in the big things, He is in every area of my life. 

    Onward we go, the next area of growth deals with relationships. God has really been showing me what Biblical friendship looks like and unfortunately what it doesn't. Over the past few years friendships have come and gone. The going is the hardest part for me, but I know some people are only in my life for a season. I think my struggle has been it seems as though almost everyone has only been there for a season and I long for fruitful, close-knit Biblical friendships. In the past few years I have lost several friendships and within the past few months a group I had been a part of for a few years is no longer in my life. While it was time for many reasons for me to leave, I still feel a bit sad about the loss. God has shown me there is a difference with coming to someone in love because we want what is best for them, and coming to someone with condemnation. He has shown me I was depending on others first instead of Him first, which never results in joy and fruitfulness. I still have quite a few selfish habits to surrender to Him so I can truly have a servant's heart, and love others the way He wants us to love. I have learned a lot through the hurt, and God knows what is best for me way more than I do. The work He is doing is challenging but always worth it because it glorifies Him and draws me into deeper relationship with Him. I am trusting that when it is time He will bring me the community He wants me to have.

    As I have been thinking about community He has helped me realize that it begins with my husband and children. If I can't love them well, then I definitely can't love those outside my family well. I am learning how to love them better and He is stretching me in regards to homeschooling. This past year my second child came up to me and asked to graduated early with his brother next year. I agreed that we could try to make that happen, and while it will be a rigorous year full of growth for all of us, I do anticipate graduating both my oldest two children in November of 2026. Just saying those words brings a touch of sadness, because it reminds me I have only a year left teaching my boys and it is throwing me for a loop emotionally. Yet, God is good and I know He will guide me through. He has them in His hands, even when my role changes after they graduate. 

    I will be sharing more of our journey throughout the year, because as I follow His lead, He has asked me to be more consistent in sharing here. It's terrifying which is probably why I haven't been obedient as I should, but it's time. He is showing me how to realign my priorities, and to be disciplined in my obedience, so that is what I am going to do. I am going to trust and follow even though I feel ill equipped for all the things He is calling me to do. I know He has my back and there is fruit to be had when I obey, so the emotions don't get to drive the bus, instead they get surrendered at the Lord's feet. 

    The most wonderful thing is the knowledge that there is so much freedom in my obedience. Even when people I considered friends keep falling away, even when there is pain or heartache, even when the enemy tries to keep me focused on my past or my feelings, God never leaves my side. Not only is He always with me, His ways are far superior to mine. This past year has taught me I have no desire to be a lukewarm Christian, I am seeking the same fire I had when He first found me, and I know it will look different because I have already grown and changed so much since first being saved, but I also know having Him in my life is worth so much more than this world could ever offer me. 

    Welcome to this new chapter and let's see what the Lord has in store because I'm just following the path He wants me to. I may stumble and trip along the way, but when I repent I am always forgiven. Here's to trust, faith and love. 

    Thank you for taking time out of your day to read this update. I hope you are having a blessed day. 

With Love,

Melanie

A Daughter's Choice by Kelly Irvin is on Tour with Celebrate Lit

 

Genre: Amish/Christian Fiction           Release Date: November 2025

    This is one of the books in The Heart of the Amish series which is a multi authored series. This book is the only one in the series that I have read. 

    I was drawn to this book because it does center on the Amish and I always have found it interesting to learn about a different way of living. I find a lot of their ways so peaceful and fruitful. I think we can learn a lot from Amish ways. This story pulled me in and I did enjoy getting to know the characters.  

    Henrietta absolutely loves everything outdoors and animal related, the last place she wants to be is indoors cooking or cleaning. This of course does not necessarily sit well with her father who happens to be the bishop. When she is not able to to get the vet assistant job she wanted, she is not happy nor is she necessarily kind to Nicholas who does get the position. Nicholas took the job for his own reasons, and is not too fond of Henrietta at first either. 

    I enjoyed watching their friendship grow as a result of them growing and maturing. They are both struggling with different areas of their faith and contentment. I think as they come to realize that God has a plan for their lives, and it may not be how they imagined it, they are able to really see that God's path is always the better one. I do appreciate the amount of wrestling we get to see, and that the characters learn and grow from their mistakes. They also garner wisdom from those who are older. Overall it was written well and a good story. 

    One of the quotes which really stood out to me is the following:

"Start thinking about it from the perspective of what you can do, what is allowed, the blessing you can be to the people you love and who love you. Contentment is learned. It's not always easy, but it's always possible. Believe me. I know."

    I think so many times we strive for things we think we want or even things of this world thinking they will bring us happiness. Yet often they just keep us in bondage. When we lean into God's path for us and realize how much freedom we have in Christ we can truly find joy. The boundaries He puts in place are meant to protect us, that change of mindset is truly the way God wants us to see things and to live. 

    I enjoy when books are deep enough that I get nuggets of wisdom which allow me to grow as well.  

    If you are interesting in learning morning about the book you can head here: A Daughter's Choice

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

Here is some information about the author and all the places you can find her: 

Kelly Irvin is an award winning author who has published more than 30 novels and a dozen novellas. She worked as a newspaper reporter before spending 22 years in public relations. She now writes fiction full time. She and her husband live in Texas. They are parents of two kids, four grandkids and an ornery senior cat. 

You can find more information about her and her books in the following places: 

Author's Website  |  Instagram |  Facebook

    One of the fun things Celebrate Lit Blog tours includes is some extra information from the author about the story. So here is what Kelly shared with us about A Daughter's Choice:

Each time I come up with a new story concept, I'm super excited about it. When a publisher lets me know the "pub" committee has approved a contract for the story, I get even more excited. Then I sit down at my computer, open a document, and zoom, my fingers take off on the keyboard . . . . nope. . . not exactly. 
    What really happens is that I suddenly realize this fabulous story idea will require a ton of research. In the case of A Daughter's Choice, featuring goat lover Henrietta "Hen" Miller, I needed to be an "expert" on raising goats and tending to a horse with colic and making candy from goat's milk, and delivering a foal that isn't positioned correctly (and treating a crochety cat!). The story also required a deep dive into several other kinds of livestock, veterinarians' clinics and vet assistants, and facets of the Amish faith that I wanted to make sure I addressed properly.
    Much of this information is easily available on the Internet and in the many reference books about the Amish I've acquired over the years. But on-line research doesn't allow me to get up close and personal with key characters in my story - the animals. I especially wanted to hang out with some goats. To my surprise, I had trouble finding a place int he San Antonio area where I could interact with these frolicking creatures. 
    Then my daughter-in-law came to the rescue. She found Cavalry Farm, a nonprofit organization that takes in and cares for all sort of livestock animals in little Adkins, Texas, just south of San Antonio. They have frequent open houses where - for a nominal fee - the public can visit, pet, feed, and yes, cuddle some of the animals. My response? ROAD TRIP!
    The farm is home to a small herd of pygmy goats as well as larger dairy goats. I have never been close to a goat, so I didn't know what to expect. They were as curious about me as I was about them. They crowded around me, climbed up my rollator, chewed on my purse strap, nibbled at the zipper on my shorts' pocket, and prodded my hands with their noses. I had a fabulous time! 
    The volunteer who stayed with us in the goat pen shared all sorts of tidbits about the care of goats. My grandson, who's two and a half, chatted with them. I took lots of photos for marketing purposes. Most importantly, I gained an understanding of why Hen is so enamored of goats. They're lively, friendly, and determined to learn all about their visitors. 
    Of course, Hen isn't simply a "goat whisperer." She also loves horses, which leads to her first encounter with vet assistant Nicholas Byler, a newcomer to Smicksburg, PA, and many other animals, including cats and dogs. At Cavalry Farm, I was also able to visit with horses, pigs, donkeys, alpacas, chickens, turkeys, and cows. I'm from Kansas so I've had my share of livestock sightings. However, I've never been offered an opportunity to snuggle a cow. Who knew that is a thing? My farmer family members will find it humorous, I'm sure. 
    The cows lounge on the grass just waiting for a visitor to come along, sit beside them, and snuggle up. It's so stinking cute! 
    No cow snuggling occurs in A Daughter's Choice. However, I can assure readers there is plenty of fun with a runaway puppy up for adoption, goats on the loose tearing through a wedding prep tent, and more. The story also moves beyond the humorous as Hen overcomes past losses and grief, allowing her to make important choices about her future. Nicholas too has to make hard choices about his occupation and his life as a faithful Amish believer. What they decide will determine if they find their happily-ever-after! 

    I loved getting that behind the scenes look at the book. It's so interesting to get a glimpse behind the curtain so to speak. 

    Two last things I want to share. First there is a giveaway for the book. In honor of the tour Kelly is giving away a $25 Amazon gift card as well as a print copy of the book! 

    Enter Giveaway Here  You can earn extra entries by commenting on the blog stops. 

    Second I wanted to share the other blogs which are participating in this tour: 

Texas Book-a-holic

Life on Chickadee Lane

Simple Harvest Reads

She Lives to Read

lakesidelivingsite

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy

Happily Managing a Household of Boys 

Stories by Gina (Author Interview) 

Nighttime Reading Center

For Him and My Family

Jeanette's Thoughts 

The Avid Reader 

Holly's Book Corner 

Vicky Sluiter

The Mommies Reviews 

Mary Hake 

    I hope you enjoyed blog hopping and seeing what other people thought of the book!

    I want to thank the publishers for a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to provide a positive review and all opinions expressed are mine alone.

    Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts, I hope you have a blessed day. 

Melanie

Love in the Castle Library - Ann Swindell

 

    I loved this book just as much as the first book: Christmas in the Castle Library. All of what I mentioned in the first book still rings true here. Faith is integral and so much a part of their lives, there is no unnecessary drama in the conflicts, and the struggles and relationship building feel very natural. I loved getting to go back into this world, because the mystery from the first novel still needs some solving. 

    In this novel what stood out to me was the way God sometimes strips away what we think we need and want because we have attached it to our identity when our identity fully comes from Him and nothing else. There is much healing as well from old wounds, and learning that God is there and will help us and grow us from those. He doesn't want us believing lies but truth, and He can use our circumstances and other believers to help us tear down the lies and replace them with truth. I think I related to Ellie from the first book more than Delphine, but still thoroughly enjoyed this book. 

    I love the beauty of family history interwoven while we still try to uncover more of the Lost Queen's story. I also am excited because it seems we haven't quite fully uncovered the story of the Lost Queen, which may mean a book three in the future, and I have my guesses as to who it might focus on, but only time will tell. It's all speculation on my part. I definitely recommend this book and its predecessor. Both wonderful reads. 

One of my favorite quotes from this book is:

            "I try to obey when the Lord nudges me to share my faith with others, but I often feel clumsy and rather poor at it. Still, I figure it's better to be obedient and look ridiculous than not even try." He turned back to face her. "I think it's a lifelong journey, growing in the ability to talk about Jesus openly and honestly. We just keep trying, eh?"

    Definitely sums up my journey, I'm still working on listening for Holy Spirit's prompting in those moments so I can be obedient. 

    Here is more information about the book if you are interested: Love in the Castle Library

Also, as always I love sharing information about the author. 

About the Author

Ann Swindell is the owner of Writing with Grace, where she teaches Christ-centered writing courses for women across the globe. She lives in West Michigan with her family and writes for many ministries, including Well-Watered Women, Risen Motherhood, and The Gospel Coalition. She has authored Path to Peace and Still Waiting, and her first novel, Christmas in the Castle Library, released with WhiteCrown in 2024. 

Author Links

Instagram | Facebook| Website

I want to thank the publishers for a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to provide a positive review and all opinions expressed are mine alone.

I hope you enjoyed reading my review and thank you for taking time out of your day to do so. I hope you have a blessed day. 

Melanie

Mid-Year Reading Wrap-Up

It has been a rought start to the reading year. I am nowhere near where I want to be for reading. It's been a struggle for a few years now, but I finally feel like I am getting back into my groove and it's wonderful. However, because it has been such a slow start to the year I am going to do a quick run down of the books I have read so far this year. I will say while I haven't read much, most of the books I read have been four or five stars which for me is pretty amazing. I attribute that to both choosing authors I already love and really doing my research on books and using trusted sources so I am not choosing books with content I don't want to consume. So without further ado here are the books I have read from January through the end of June. 

January:

Giver of Wonders - Roseanna M. White

⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book was a quick read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I didn't even realize as I was reading who the book was truly about and how it ties into Christmas. Yet I always enjoy books by this author and this one was no different. It had good faith content. I think the sisters in the story and their faith which causes a boldness in them was inspirational. Wonderful read. 

The Roads We Follow - Nicole Deese

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ya'll this book was so good. I really have enjoyed everything I have read by this author. She quickly has become a new favorite. I fell in love with the characters and was fully invested in everything happening. I think we can all relate to the struggles and miscommunication. The desire to be seen and heard for who we are, and relying on Holy Spirit to help us communicate with love. Even letting fear dictate our actions which never ends well. Great story that I couldn't put down. 

A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure - Angela Bell
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Another amazing read. This one had so many quirky characters and I was here for it. The faith content was strong which is always a huge bonus. I thought the storyline and the romance was intriguing and kept me captivated. Seeing 

Clara's loyalty to her family and her defense of them was noble, but I also loved the journey she goes on in realizing she can't be in control. Just such a fun and enjoyable read! Definitely adding this one to my physical shelves. 

February: 

You Make It Feel like Christmas - Toni Shiloh 

⭐⭐⭐

I know the only book I read in February and it was a Christmas book, this is how my year has been. From what I remember of this book it was good. I enjoyed the book overall. I can't recall much of it, but that's okay, it was still good. 

March: 

Wolf Soldier - James R. Hannibal

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I am reading this series aloud to my middle son and we are both completely enthralled. My oldest has already finished it. This first book really built the world well and starts us right into some action. I do struggle reading the old language they speak to the Rescuer aloud, but my middle son tolerates my pronunciations well enough. I was proud of myself that I did not cry while reading aloud. I love the allegory and the faith content. So much good stuff. I also appreciate that it's a book where listening to God matters most in everything and that actions have consequences as sometimes that is not the case in books with young protagonists. 

April: 

Radical - David Platt

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I read this book with a friend and there was so much conviction. The emphasis was ensuring we look at the world through the lens of Scripture and compare everything to how God calls us to live, love and move in this world. As I was reading either he asked questions or Holy Spirit would provide the questions to ask myself as I reflect on what I was reading. There was a lot of looking at Acts and how the first church behaved and are we behaving similarly or have we let the comfortableness of life in America cloud our behavior so we are focused on ourselves and not God. Definitely a book my children will be reading before graduating, as it emphasizes a boldness in our Faith with a focus on glorifying God not ourselves.  

Radical Together - David Platt

⭐⭐⭐

This was the next book my friend and I read. This book looked at discipleship and how to really build the church. This one was good as well. Definitely had me comparing what he was saying to what I see in my church and even how I disciple my children. I think my biggest take away was when he stated that real faith always produces fruit. Looking at my life and saying okay can others see the fruit of my faith. How am I spreading the gospel, and using my gifts to build up the church? A focus on working together, living together, and sharing God's Good News with the world. 

Northargyle Abbie - Janelle Leonard

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I enjoyed this book, to see my full review go here: Northargyle Abbie

May:

Bear Knight - James R. Hannibal

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We are definitely deeper into the world in this second book, and the action is definitely continuing to pick up. The commentary my son and I share as we are reading is bringing so much joy. In this book it is a lot of why are you making those choices, but that is to be expected on the journeys they are on. I love seeing the growth of the characters and the clear depiction of good and evil. Also the reliance on their faith, and the consequences when they choose to not rely on that faith as well. I can't really say much because as we are in book 2 it would all be a spoiler. The tactic of leaving one character on a cliff hanger while we jump to another character is frustrating yet well played by the author. Definitely keeps those pages turning at as quick of a speed as I can reading aloud. 

Proclaimer - Megan Schaulis

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Loved!!! So good!! Full review here: Proclaimer

My review for the first book in this duology is here: Protector

How to Pray - C.S. Lewis

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This compilation of snippets of C.S. Lewis's works pertaining to prayer was very helpful. It was inspiring and while it required more focus, it was well worth it. They had a good chunk from Screwtape Letters which is a favorite of mine so that was a great revisit. I now want to reread Screwtape. Such an inspirational book for how short it is. Highly recommend. 

Traitor in the Tower - Dave & Neta Jackson (Read Aloud)

⭐⭐⭐⭐

This was a read aloud in our homeschool with all three children. It gave a good overview of who John Bunyan was and what life in prison was like for him. I loved it when maybe halfway through my daughter suddenly realized Bunyan wrote Pilgrim's Progress and those are the stories we were hearing him tell. Those connections are what make homeschooling so much fun. Overall we enjoyed this one. 

June:

Bridge to Terabithia - Katherine Paterson (Read Aloud)

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Wow! I had no idea going into this book how it would end and yep I barely held on while reading. I was doing okay until I looked up and saw tears streaming down my daughter's face. She was moved but said what kind of book is this? It was definitely a wonderful read despite the hard. I think watching a child deal with grief was helpful because it demonstrated we all deal with grief differently, and that's okay, there is no one right way. Yeah just wow, unexpected and glad I was able to experience it with my children and it wasn't one I handed to them on their own. 

Summer Island Book Club - Ciara Knight 

⭐⭐⭐

This book was okay. I read it fairly quickly, but I don't know for me there was just something missing. It took me a bit to even get into the book, but it was a typical contemporary romance. There may have been a bit of skipping I did for a more detailed kissing scene, but if I remember correctly there was nothing more than that. I am pretty sure I began skimming as I was approaching the end. It wasn't bad, I just didn't connect with it so it was an average read. 

Salvaged - Shanna M Heath

⭐⭐⭐.5

This book was a cute quick read. I would have given it four stars had it not had quite as much focus on physical attraction. While clean, I don't enjoy when characters seem to focus on thinking about the other person's physical appearance. However, despite that this book had some good faith content and growth. It also definitely hit close to home as my mother has cancer, and that is a topic in this book. Overall good read. 

To Steal a Heart - Jen Turano

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I love me a Jen Turano book because they always make me laugh aloud. The hijinx her characters get up to are just so much fun. This was the first book in the trilogy and we are getting to know all the characters. While we get to know all the ladies who are starting this agency, this book focuses on Gabriella and Nicholas. The mystery is one of trying to clear someone's name. It's always so interesting to me how society works and there were plenty of surprises in this book. I love trying to figure out the mystery, although I'm not always great at it. 

To Write a Wrong - Jen Turano

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book is the second of the trilogy and focuses on Daphne and Herman who are both authors. This book out of the three had me in stitches the most. Daphne is by far my favorite character. So quirky and I absolutely am here for it. Such a wonderful read and the setting changed a little bit as we were at Herman's house which was fun. I love watching the ladies get their agency off the ground.  

Helper by Design - Elyse Fitzpatrick

⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book was read with a friend, and really helped me to understand better what my role as a wife is according to Scripture. There was definitely some conviction happening as I read. She was clear in her writing and had Scripture to back up everything she was saying, which I believe is very important in books about how we should live Biblically, and unfortunately not all do. This was a good read and one I will probably have my daughter read when she gets older. 

To Disguise the Truth - Jen Turano

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The last of the trilogy. Man while Daphne is still my favorite this one was good as well. It was great that we finally get to know more about Eunice and her past. Her interactions with Arthur and the way they argue were great. The whole scene at the hospital was a riot, while also being very heartbreaking. I know a weird combo but Jen made it work. I love the reconciliation in this book. So good! This trilogy definitely propelled my reading in the right direction. 

I love that I was able to get some nonfiction in as well, I'm hoping to add some audiobooks but those are a challenge for me as I am a visual learner not an auditory one. I am determined to try though even if it's just one a month. 

Also, already in July I have finished four books and two of those are 3 in 1s, so I am feeling optimistic about how God is showing me to steward my time so I can partake in the love of reading He has given me. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. Have you read any of these books and what did you think? Are there any books you would highly recommend I read? 

I pray you have a blessed day! 

With Love, 

Melanie

The Proclaimer - Megan Schaulis

 

Proclaimer by Megan Schaulis

Set Up: This is book 2 of the Susa Chronicles and concludes the reimagining of Esther that we began in the first book Protector. This book picks up very close to where the first book ended. The competition is over and we are now dealing with all the events which happened during the competition and the aftermath. We continue to follow Novalise and King Zadien, but we have Declan's perspective thrown into the mix as well. Declan is Novalise's brother. The heat towards the Alphanites is increasing as the King has pretty much declared the Alphanites are public enemy number one. Both Novalise and King Zadien continue to grow closer while their lives become more complicated by the minute. There are still so many truths to discover and secrets to shed light on. The action ramps up and there are moments we don't know who to trust. We see her struggle between her feelings, and the guiding voice she hears. We also see her struggle with the opinons and plans of those around her and her own control of the situations. It is a roller coaster start to finish.

My Thoughts: 

      Let me share the opening line or two with you because in my opinion it doesn't really give any spoilers: "Zadien's words knock through my brain like a loose boulder tearing down the mountain near our compound. If I'd looked at that boulder a few seconds earlier, I'd never have imagined the damage it was about to cause. Yet, with the slightest shift of earth, the massive force let loose, and with each rotation down the slope, momentum built until nothing in it's path was safe." 

    Yep that's how it started and ya'll Proclaimer did not disappoint. I absolutely adored Protector and was so excited to read this book. It was everything I could have hoped for and more. I don't even know where to begin because like the previous book I flew through this one. I definitely need to get them in physical copies STAT. My heart broke and was put back together about a million and one times throughout this story. There are twists and turns all over the place. While we know there are certain things which will happen because Esther is our base, I had no idea how we were getting there. There were so many intricate parts, and I was here for it. 

      Again the faith was on par, just like the last book. The theme of this book in my opinion was all about boldness and surrender. We all know that God will ask us to do things which push outside of our comfort zone and it's trusting that process. Trusting that even through the hard things, and the pain, obedience always has the greatest reward because He is the one guiding our steps and who can see the whole picture.  I also think the anguish Novalise feels and the battle between not wanting to feel pain and being obedient is so real. Picking up our cross is never easy, it wasn't meant to be, because we can only become more like Christ as we are refined and in order to be refined we often have to go through fire. Yet the way she bares her heart, is so inspiring because we can all relate in some way. 

    There were two scenes that really stood out to me, and which I saved quotes from. Both closer to the end of the book which means I can't really share either quote. There is so much love and forgiveness despite the pain, and freedom when we lean into God. The first scene is between Novalise, Declan and a prisoner. He is forgiven and she is reminded of how loved she is. The second scene is when she is crying out and feeling like she can't go any further, but is reminded about who God created her to be. Both had me in anguish yet they also had me seeing the beauty of God's ways in what He commands us to do. 

    There is so much I want to say, yet so much I won't because I don't want to spoil anything and being the second book everything I say would pretty much be a spoiler. I wish I could say more, but I really don't want to give anything away, so just go read it!!! So excuse the mediocreness of this post, because there is so much I want to gush about, but simply cannot. In my head though all the amazingness of the book with all the details is running rampant. So if you have read the book and want to talk about it, let's discuss, because I would love to dive into all the details. 

    I was excited that we were able to see the story come to a conclusion, and oh what heart pounding but satisfying conclusion it was. I am also really excited about what's to come. I can't wait for the next story as we follow another character whom I absolutely adore. I love staying in a world a bit longer especially when I fall in love with the whole band of characters. If we could have a book for all her Alphanite brothers and the Enhanced she came to be close to, I would simply adore it, just saying. :) 

About the Author

 After a year of traveling the country in a 100-square-foot camper with her husband, daughter, and dog, Megan Schaulis returned home and wrote her first novel.

 Megan has a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University and is a member of the ACFW. As a special education teacher, she helped young people fall in love with reading and writing. Today, when she's not spinning stories, Megan uses words in playful and creative ways at her branding agency. Her debut series is The Susa Chronicles, a YA dystopian reimagining of Esther, released with WhiteCrown publishing in 2024 . She lives in Abilene, Texas, where you’ll find her staying up way too late reading or hiking with her family.

Instagram | Pinterest Board for Book by Megan | Megan's Website

I want to thank the publisher and Band of Booksters for a copy of this book to read and review, all opinions expressed are most definitely my own. 

Thank you for taking the time to read what I have to say, and I hope you have a blessed day. 

With Love,

Melanie

Northargyle Abbie - Janelle Leonard

 

Set Up: In this story we have Abigail who is a pastor's daughter and works at a museum. She has a passion for history and the creativity to come up with witty placards. She inherits a cottage in Australia after her grandmother passes away. A cottage she never even knew existed. With this cottage comes the mystery of her grandmother's real life, the island of Northargyle, and the mystery around a lost princess. Along the way she meets some shady characters as well as some great friends. We accompany her on her journey of faith and discovery, as she unravels the mystery that is her grandmother's life. She accomplishes this with the help of Colter who is a local who helps her find clues to the mystery she is trying to unravel. His sister is there as well. The dynamic him and his sister bring to the story adds wonder and a beautiful view of true friendship. 

My thoughts: I really enjoyed the story and was drawn in immediately. Although I have read other books by Jane Austen, I have never read Northanger Abbey, and therefore didn't have that as a background so I don't know how it compares. Now I want to definitely read it because I enjoyed this spin of it so much.The placards Abigail writes at the beginning of each chapter were such a fun addition to the book. I absolutely adored the faith content in this book, as well as the mystery. I was trying to put the pieces together as Abigail was tying to them together, and she is the much better detective than I am. I also appreciate that the romance was natural, and really not the center of the story. I am finding that stories in which the romance is there but secondary to the plot line and full of depth are the stories I am drawn to. I also loved the family dynamics. The love the family had for one another even with squabbles was so tangible. Not to mention the fact that she had only brothers and I just loved the banter there. 

The themes of service, sacrifice, hope and faith are intricately tied together throughout the novel. I think we can learn so much from how these characters, even in their pain and heartache, relied on the Lord. They didn't sit in their feelings and let their feelings guide their decisions. They had faith even when life got hard, and trusted in God's plan. I think it is so important for us to see this emulated in books, because it is how we should live life as Christians. This book definitely encompassed what the Christian walk should look like. Life should consist of obedience to the Lord, and accepting His will no matter what. We should be going to Him with all of our concerns and waiting for answers, making sure we are quieting down enough to listen. We must remember that our timing is not His timing, and surrendering to His will will always produce fruit.

I really enjoyed the journey we got to go on with Abigail. I think part of the journey began when Colter asks her the question "why not you?" This question is a great one for us to ask ourselves as well. Why don't we do that thing? God may ask us "why not you, you are the one I am choosing to send." We forget too quickly that God pushes us outside of our comfort zone that He asks us to do things that are going to stretch and grow us, but ultimately will accomplish His will and give Him glory. We were created to glorify Him in every thought, word, and action. We are to share His story, to fullfill the path He has for each one of us, and it will look different for each one of us, but it will involve us being pushed and stretched because that is where sanctification happens. This book really demonstrates taking leaps of faith, trusting even though we find the task scary. It demonstrated how we won't get it right every time, because we are not perfect, but even through those mistakes God has a plan for us. 

Such a wonderful read. I didn't go into too much detail on the book specifics because I didnt' want to give anything away, but this is definitely a must read. 

Here is a link to the book information if you would like to check it out: Northargyle Abbie

About the Author: Janelle Leonard is a Jane Austen fangirl with an overactive imagination who creates web-twisty plotlines from her home in Pennsylvania. When she's not writing, reading, editing, drinking coffee, or working at an elementary school library, she's finding creative ways to procrastinate. Janelle and her hubby have successfully raised three boys, losing lots of brain space to turbos and mufflers. She is passionate about living authentically while serving and encouraging others to see their worth, using writing as a key to unlock worlds of possibility.

Here are some of the places you can interact with the author:

Website | Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

I want to thank the publishers for a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to provide a positive review and all opinions expressed are mine alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts. I hope you check out the book and have a blessed day. 

Melanie

Christmas in the Castle Library - Ann Swindell

 

Set Up: Ellie is our main character and a history student who loves books. She feels more comfortable with books than people which has caused an imbalance in her life. She is focused on finishing her dissertation about a queen who left her country under unknown circumstances. Ellie is determined to get to the bottom of this mystery. She has been fascinated with what could have happened to this queen from a very young age. She is granted access to the library at the castle in Lethersby over the Christmas break. With the help of Mark, a castle staff member who is keeping his own secrets, they set out to discover the truth of the lost queen. 

My Thoughts: So the title itself immediately drew me towards this book. Christmas is one of my favorite times of year and as a lover of books I would adore spending the holiday in a castle library. So I went into this book with very high hopes. This book definitely did not disappoint. The depth of the characters and the way faith was woven in so effortlessly was phenomenal. This was my first book by this author and I am hooked. Their was conflict but what I loved most was there didn't seem to be unnecessary drama that can sometimes happen with conflict in a romance. It felt natural and true to life. One of my new tests for a book is could I hand this to my thirteen year old and be okay with that, and this book definitely passes that test. The way Mark treats Ellie with a Christ like love is wonderfully heart warming. There is so much more I want to say but it would give spoilers. I may have to start giving a spoiler warning so I can talk about the books as much as I want. 

I highlighted several quotes from this book. I am going to share two of my favorites: 

"Help me see myself as you do, Lord. Help me define  myself by your love. Because hope is here in my heart, too, but it feels like a small bird with broken wings that's been limping in my soul for years. I want it to fly, but I don't know how."

This next one may be considered a spoiler so read at your own risk, but it was too good not to share. I am loved this entire scene but am going to only share the last words Mark says to Ellie: 

 "Her burning cheeks were now wet with tears, but he didn't stop. "Please, Ellie, don't talk about the woman I love with disdain. Every part of you is precious to me and I love you." 

I could relate so much to what Ellie went through and how she viewed herself because for the majority of my life I felt the same way. So to read what Mark says to her in this scene was like a balm to my soul because it reminded me of how my husband feels, and how God sees me. That beauty is so much more than what the world says it is, and was a reminder of how comparison truly is the thief of joy. 

We get to continue with the story and discover more about the queen in the next book and I am excited for the next installment in this series. I highly recommend this book. 

Here is a link so you can check out the book: Christmas in the Castle Library

About the Author

Ann Swindell writes stories that point to Christ's presence in our day-to-day lives and the hope He brings to our hearts. She is the author of multiple books and the owner of Writng with Grace, where she teaches Christ-centered writing classes for women. Ann lives in West Michigan, and she enjoys adventuring with her family...usually with a cup of Earl Grey tea in hand. 

Here are some of the places you can interact with the author: 

Instagram | Facebook | Website & Newsletter | Pinterest

I want to thank the publishers for a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to provide a positive review and all opinions expressed are mine alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts, I hope you have a blessed day. 

Melanie

Love in the Eternal City - Rebecca W. Martin

 

Love in the Eternal City by Rebecca W. Martin

Set Up: In this story we follow Elena who has just had her heart broken by both her fiancee and her best friend as she begins her new job in Rome, Italy, and Benedikt who is a member of the Swiss Guard watching over Vatican City, the heart of the Catholic Church. Thanks to the meddling of a spymaster, Beni's coworker/friend and Beni's sister, these two start to become close. We follow them on their journey full of ups and downs to see where God might guide their relationship. 

My Thoughts: This book was a welcome surprise. I love depth in my romance books, but I never go in expecting that depth to be there, because that would leave me disappointed the majority of the time. However, this book really allows us to get to know the characters very well. We see their pain and struggles and walk with them as they allow God to guide and heal them. I related to Elena and her thoughts on so many levels. Having been in a relationship with echoes of what Elena experienced it was hard and yet catharthic in many ways to walk with her through the pain. 

I long to go back to Italy some day so experiencing Rome through this book was wonderful. We were able to see some of the sights, as well as get a more in depth look at the Vatican. I didn't know anything about the Swiss Guard so seeing how they work was fun, and may lead me down rabbit holes of learning. It's always good when a book inspires me to search out more information. I also really appreciated how central God was to the story line. Sometimes in Christian Fiction God only drops in a bit, but here He was integral. We experience them both getting closer to Him through the Catholicism they both practice, and their prayers. It was a wonderful story and I will definitely be adding a copy to my library. 

Here is a link so you can check out the book yourself: Love in the Eternal City

About the Author

Rebecca W. Martin is a Lay Dominican and lifelong Catholic with too many cats, a deep affection for semicolons, and very few hobbies besides publishing. She is the auhtor of two children's books: Meet Sister Mary Margaret (OSV, 2023) and Father Drew, What Do You Do? (OSV, 2025). She serves as Acquisitions Editor for Our Sunday Visitor, freelances as Assistant Editor for Chrism Press, and volunteers as Editor for the Lay Dominicans of Central Province of St. Albert the Great, USA.

When she's not working and freelancing, Rebecca writes children's books, novels, essays, and poetry; sings in a concert choir; and reads just about anything. She is also an active member of the Catholic Writers Guild, and lives in Michigan with her husband and feline assistants.

Here are some other places you can interact with the author:

Instagram | Facebook | Website & Newsletter

I want to thank the publishers for a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to provide a positive review and all opinions expressed are mine alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read what I have to say, and I hope you have a blessed day.

With Love,

Melanie

Because of You - Hannah Currie

 

Set Up: In this story we follow Chloe as she embarks on her first missions trip. She has been dreaming of this trip for years despite her young age of sixteen. She will be going from Australia where her home is to Thailand to help out at an orphanage for girls. We get to experience the journey from beginning to end as her and a group of teenagers spend their summer making an impact for God in another country. 

My Thoughts: Wow! Much like the other Hannah Currie book I read recently I absolutely adored this one. I was very impacted by the stories Chloe encounters along the way, including her own testimony. The girls at the orphanage broke my heart while bringing me so much joy and innocence. Throughout this story Chloe experiences growth, but not in the way she was expecting. I love how this demonstrates how God can use us in so many different ways to be the light for others. Even what seem like small and inconsequential ways. 

Experiencing the culture of Thailand a bit was fun, as I love getting to travel to different places via books. It's one of the greatest perks is "seeing" places that I may never physically be able to visit. In this case the challenge of a place in which they couldn't rely on modern day conveniences is one which promotes so much growth. I also appreciated learning more about how Teen Missions works, and discovering that the author went on a trip herself was a fun tidbit of information. 

I love how integral God is in the story, because honestly it's not always the case with Christian fiction. We are able to see the real life application of obedience and the consequences of whether we choose to obey or not. The choices and Biblical application felt so natural and I loved that. Just a wonderfully encouraging and inspiring book. 

This book was a five star read for me and one I will definitely be buying to add to my physical shelves and sharing with my daughter, actually I will probably have my boys read it as well. 

As I always like to do with my book reviews where I am blessed to receive a copy of the book for free, I like to share some information about the author, and where you can find the book. I love getting to know the authors behind the books I read. Especially the five star reads, as they typically become authors whom I love all of their books. 

Here are some places you can find the book: Whitefire Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

About the Author:

Hannah Currie has loved royals - both real and fictional - for as long as she can remember and has always been fascinated by their lives. They started making their way into her writing somewhere around first grade and never stopped. 

While she never dreamed of being a princess for real (way too many expectations and people watching), she certainly wouldn't say no to the gorgeous gowns, endless wardrobes, chefs, and cleaners that come with job. A crown or two wouldn't go astray either. Or Belle's library. Where she'd just sit and stare at the books with a giddy smile on on her face for hours. 

Hannah lives with her husband and three kids in Australia, where they proudly claim Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family as their own. She is very honored to be one of the launching authors for the new WhiteCrown Publishing line with her Crown of Promise series full of faith, romance, and -of course- royals. 

Author Links

Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter | Goodreads | Bookbub

 If you choose to read the book I can't wait to hear what you thought. Feel free to leave a comment or message me so we can talk about the book! 

Thank you for reading my review, I hope you have a blessed day. 

With Love,

Melanie