Sheila's Books Read

Sheila's bookshelf: read

The Best Intentions
Scotland's Melody
The Secret Society of Salzburg
Secret of the Sonnets
20-40-60-Minute Dinners: Meals to Match the Time You Have
Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild
Secret Santa Claus Club: A Tool to Help Parents Unwrap the Secret of Santa
Mr. Pudgins
Revenge Never Rests
The Best Mistake
Meriden Park
More Inspirational Stories for Young Women
The Great Tree: A Christmas Fable
To Capture His Heart
The Call of the Sea
Esperance
Livvy and the Enchanted Woodland
Come, Gentle Night
The Bad Boy Theory
Guide To Smart Wedding Planning: What You want to know and everything you haven't thought of yet.


Sheila's favorite books »

Monday, December 1, 2025

Out of Time: Undaunted Courage #3 By Irene Hannon-Christian Mystery & Suspense Romance




 Book Synopsis

For historical anthropologist Cara Tucker, the chance to spend a sabbatical semester on a remote country estate--with full access to its vast library and centuries-old journals--is a dream come true . . . until a series of strange incidents begin to turn her dream into a nightmare. Someone, it seems, does not want anyone diving into the past and unearthing old ghosts.
  
Sheriff Brad Adams has seen his share of suspicious activities during his law enforcement career, but what's happening at the isolated estate is out-of-pattern in his quiet, rural Missouri county. Beset by danger, Cara and Brad work together to try to untangle the clues. But when the peril turns lethal, the situation takes on a new urgency, and their mission is Find out who is behind the string of menacing incidents before the perpetrator strikes another deadly blow.  
  
Hannon presents another page-turning thriller in Out of Time where danger lurks in every shadow.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Revell
  • Series: Undaunted Courage
  • Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense Romance 
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 7, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 368 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0800741900
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required, and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****






My Review

This is the first book I've read from the Undaunted Courage series. I would never have guessed it was the third book because it read so well as a standalone. Now I want to read the first two books in the series.

The story hooks you with suspense right from chapter one. There were several pieces to the mystery, and Red Herrings popped up in every chapter. Many people could be guilty of the murder and chaos. 

The main setting is a secluded and mysterious woodland estate owned by an elderly woman, Natalie, whose family story is recorded in journals in a dying dialect.  Historical anthropologist Cara Tucker is there to translate the journals while on sabbatical leave as a professor. Someone doesn't want the journals translated and will do anything to stop the work. Single Cara meets two men who stir her interest: Sheriff Brad, and Natalie's cousin Steve. I really liked Brad from the start and how he eventually opened up to Cara about his life. 

A cool part in this novel is seeing the bad guy's side. We also get views from different people, which confuses readers about who's causing trouble at Natalie's place. No big spoilers here, but expect twists, several puzzles to solve, and tension that grows to the end. Love mysteries with suspense and a touch of faith? Out of Time is perfect for you.

****Meet Author Irene Hannon****

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 65 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.





~*~*~*~*Purchase Out of Time ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/7078XPz

Kindle-https://a.co/d/gwILT7h


~~~More Books by Irene Hannon~~~

Over the Edge: (Psychological Suspense Thriller Romance with a Police Detecti...
Into the Fire: (Arson Investigative Suspense Thriller and Forced Proximity Ro...
Body of Evidence: (A Clean Contemporary Romantic Suspense Thriller with a For...
Labyrinth of Lies: (A Clean Contemporary Romantic Suspense Thriller)
Point of Danger: (A Clean Contemporary Romantic Suspense Thriller)
Dark Ambitions: (A Contemporary Romance Action Thriller with a Edge of Your S...


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Sunday, November 23, 2025

Against a Crescent Storm (The Balkan Legends #3) By A.L. Sowards- Medieval Historical Fiction Review


 Book Synopsis

The Serbs defied the world’s most powerful ruler, and now Danilo and Maja must fight to save their people and their newly forged love before the sultan exacts his revenge.


The Balkans, 1389

Three years ago, Danilo’s people won their freedom from the hated Ottoman Empire, but with enemies on every side, the Serbs’ hard-earned peace remains fragile. Knowing the sultan will soon come for revenge, Danilo sets out to gain key allies for the coming war—and to escape the haunting grief of personal loss.

War has orphaned Maja and her brother, but they’ve moved forward from tragedy by crafting religious mosaics. Yet after being cheated and robbed, they are desperate for help. Rescue comes from Danilo, the man who once saved them from slavery to the Turks.

Danilo and Maja are soon drawn together by shared grief and affection, but complications arise on every side. A Hungarian noble suspects them of conspiracy. An Ottoman spy, Iskandar, is consumed by a vendetta against Danilo and a dangerous obsession with Maja. And a pending marriage alliance pits Danilo’s heart against his duty. As rumors of treason weaken Christian unity, hope of victory in the Balkans grows dim. Allies and enemies converge on the fields of Kosovo, where an epic battle will shape the destiny of nations for centuries to come.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Shadow Mountain Publishing
  • Series: The Balkan Legends #3
  • Genre: Medieval Historical Fiction
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 4, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 368 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639934537
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****




My Review

I was thrilled to learn that the third book in The Balkan Legends series was being released. Author A.L. Sowards shines at making history jump off the page. I've been impressed over the years as each book has become stronger and better. Against a Crescent Storm is truly icing on the cake.

The book begins in 1389, three years after the Serbs gained their newfound freedom from the Ottoman Empire. With peace being fragile, they need to unite with strong allies against the Sultan and his armies. 

Danilo ranks as my top side character from past books. He's a fierce, Serb fighter, cousin to two Zupans from the first tales. He proves his love and loyalty best to his Zupan and cousin Ivan. This novel amps it up. Scenes like that brought tears to my eyes more than once. Danilo also finds fresh love and it comes from Maja, the sweet and pretty mosaic artist he once saved. Their romance is a beautiful thing and pulls at heartstrings.

The battles that took place in the Kosovo lands were heartbreaking and fierce. Sowards has a way of writing realistic war scenes without being too graphic. During these chapters, I found myself walking away, not wanting to see the fate of Danilo and Ivan, as I was so invested in these characters and their well-being. I also loved the growth that I saw in Ivan's wife, Helena, as she became a great leader in her husband's absence. 

To wrap it up,read the earlier books first for the full impact. It can be read as a standalone, but the emotional payoff won't be the same. I love this series, and I don't want to let it go.The best part? I can return anytime. Audiobooks will be my next adventure with The Balkan Legends series. If you want your own escape, jump to the 1300s and immerse yourself in The Balkan Legend Series.  

****Meet Author A.L. Sowards****



A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have earned a Whitney Award, several Whitney Finalists positions, and a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She lives in Alaska with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.

For more information, please visit her website, ALSowards.com


~*~*~*~*Purchase Against a Crescent Storm ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Hardcover-https://a.co/d/eB0OWMr

Kindle-https://a.co/d/hq1UKss

Friday, November 21, 2025

Through Each Tomorrow: An Inspirational Elizabethan and Victorian-Era Time-Travel Romance By Gabrielle Meyer- Review


 

Book Synopsis

In 1883, Charles Hollingsworth is a poor farmer desperate to secure financial stability for his mother and sister, as he is unsure which of his time-crossing paths he will choose on his twenty-fifth birthday. Posing as the Earl of Norfolk, he enters the opulent circles of Newport's elite to assist a fellow time-crossing friend, Drew. But suspicions of his identity arise among the upper crust, and his encounters with Drew's intriguing sister further complicate decisions that could impact a lifetime.

In 1563, Lady Cecily Pembrooke serves Queen Elizabeth while clinging to the hope that her stepbrother Charles will remain with her in this path. As the true Earl of Norfolk, Charles is deeply entangled in the deadly politics of the court. When he brings Drew, a physician in training, to Windsor Castle to help save the ailing monarch, old feelings for Drew rekindle in Cecily's heart, but her love faces impossible odds under the strict rules of the crown. As their futures hang by a thread, will Charles and Cecily's web of secrets unravel and ensnare them in an inescapable destiny?

Gabrielle Meyer delivers an enthralling tale of love, sacrifice, and the relentless pull of time in her newest Timeless series installment.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bethany House Publishers
  • Genre: Time Travel Christian Historical Fiction
  • Series: Timeless
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 4, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 384 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0764243020
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****



My Review

The Timeless series is one of my absolute favorites! Author Gabrielle Meyer is a master of storytelling, expertly blending historical romance, time travel, and an engaging narrative. Everything I've read of hers I've loved. She always writes well-developed characters that are relatable, powerful, and easy to root for. Through Each Tomorrow marks the sixth book in the series, but read the others first because characters link across the stories.

This one offers views from Charles and Cecily. A male point of view feels fresh and fun here. Charles charms with his strong sense of duty, fairness, loyalty, smarts, and kindness. He stands out as a top hero. Four time travelers appear in the story. It shifts between 1883 and 1563.

Charles' step-sister Cecily narrates the 1563 chapters. In 1563, Charles is a nobleman and in the service of Queen Elizabeth the First. In 1883, he is a struggling farmer who was trying to take care of his mother and sister. He meets fellow time-crosser Andrew, who also goes between 1563 and 1883. One timeline brings a woman who steals his heart. He faces big responsibilities in both worlds but he must pick one timeline to stay in forever.

I loved the descriptions of life in both timelines: the court of Elizabeth I and that of Newport, Rhode Island in the Gilded Age.

Each book in the series deepens your understanding of the unique time-crossing method Meyer created. You will find as I do, that this book is engrossing and page-turning, and you'll be unable to put the book down. Meyer always has a way of taking readers on a journey of joy, heartache, forgiveness, and difficult decisions. I'm so excited there are four more books to come in this series.


****Meet Author Gabrielle Meyer****


Gabrielle Meyer lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the upper Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people, places, and events. You can learn more about Gabrielle and her books at www.gabriellemeyer.com.

Find Gabrielle on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/AuthorGabrielleMeyer, Pinterest at www.Pinterest.com/gabriellemeyer/, Twitter at www.twitter.com/MeyerGabrielle, Goodreads, and her Website at www.gabriellemeyer.com.





~*~*~*~*Purchase Through Each Tomorrow ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/7CkCxDH

Kindle-https://a.co/d/bMBS9YJ

Friday, November 14, 2025

On The Edge of Trust: A Logan Point Novel By Patricia Bradley- A Christian, Mystery,/Suspense, Romance Review

On the Edge of Trust by Patricia Bradley Banner

ON THE EDGE OF TRUST

by Patricia Bradley

November 3 - 28, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

Book Synopsis:

On the Edge of Trust by Patricia Bradley

A LOGAN POINT NOVEL

 

Sometimes the closer you get to justice, the deadlier it becomes

When decorated FBI undercover agent Scott Sinclair suffers a gunshot wound in his right arm, the injury threatens his future career in the field. He is determined to regain his former job by training himself to use his left hand, and failure is not an option--especially when he's unofficially pulled into an investigation.

Tori Mitchell is a passionate crime reporter and podcaster who has dedicated her life to seeking justice. Her relentless pursuit of the truth has freed a wrongfully convicted man from prison, making Tori an enemy of the true killer. When her nephew is accused of a different murder, nothing can stop her from getting involved and clearing his name.

Soon after Tori and Scott reconnect on the case, shots are fired, leaving them to wonder which of them has been targeted. As the investigation intensifies, so do the threats and the sparks between them, but Tori's doubtful if she can extend grace and trust to Scott. They'll have to combine their skills and rely on their growing relationship to outsmart the killer.

Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason, Lynn H. Blackburn, Elizabeth Goddard, and readers who love faith-based fiction and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, this riveting, clean romantic suspense delivers heart-pounding danger and forced-proximity romance.

Book Details:

Genre: Christian, Mystery, Suspense, Romance
Published by: Revell
Publication Date: November 4th 2025
Number of Pages: 336 (pbk)
ISBN: 9780800747008 (pbk)
Series: A Logan Point Novel
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | BookBub | Baker Book House

 ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.**** 


My Review

On the Edge of Trust is the second book by Patricia Bradley that I have read.  This Christian romantic suspense novel is part of the Logan Point series. It kicks off with high stakes, featuring arson and a killing. Tori Mitchell works as a crime reporter and podcaster. She's stirred up foes by aiding the release of an innocent man from jail, that others think is still guilty. Before long, Tori learns her own safety is at risk. She teams up with undercover FBI agent Scott Sinclair. They share a past from their high school days. Tori struggles at first to believe in Scott. But as the plot moves forward, her doubts fade.

Tori aids her nephew Drew, who's the top suspect in a murder case. Threads from this dual-crime puzzle start to connect. I got hooked piecing together the guilty parties. The steady action builds real suspense along the way. The story weaves in redemption and forgiveness for several folks.  I liked the journeys of Tori and Scott best and they face plenty of moments that strengthen their faith.

You can enjoy this as a single read. Still, earlier books introduce people also found in this new book. Readers will find On the Edge of Trust to be engaging, full of mystery, and emotion, pulling you in till the end.

 

Read an Excerpt:

 

 

Author Bio:

Patricia Bradley

Patricia Bradley is the author of multiple romantic suspense novels including the popular Pearl River and Logan Point series. She is the winner of an Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, a Selah Award, and a Daphne du Maurier Award. Bradley was selected as a Carol Award finalist, and three of her books were included in anthologies that debuted on the USA Today bestseller list. She makes her home in Mississippi.

Catch Up With Patricia Bradley:

PTBradley.com
Amazon Author Profile
BookBub - @PatriciaBradley
Instagram - @PTBradley1
Threads - @PTBradley1
X - @PTBradley1
Facebook - @patriciabradleyauthor
LinkedIn
Pinterest - @PTBradley
YouTube - @patriciabradley2013

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews, interviews, guest posts, and opportunities to WIN in the giveaway!

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

 

 

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This giveaway is hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Revell & Patricia Bradley. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.
ON THE EDGE OF TRUST by Patricia Bradley

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Wednesday, November 12, 2025

A Match Made at Christmas: A Collection of Christmas Romance Novellas By Amy R. Anguish, Sarah Anne Crouch, Lori DeJong, and Heather Greer

A Match Made at Christmas JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Match Made at Christmas by Amy R. Anguish, Sarah Anne Crouch, Lori DeJong, and Heather Greer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

A Match Made at Christmas

Title: A Match Made at Christmas 
Author:
Amy R. Anguish, Sarah Anne Crouch, Lori DeJong, and Heather Greer 
Publisher:
Scrivenings Press 
Release Date:
October 1, 2024 
Genre:
Contemporary Christian Romance Novella Collection

****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

A-parent-ly Christmas (by Amy R Anguish) 

Noel and Joy Davidson didn’t mean to separate, but a job promotion and educational opportunities were too much for their marriage to withstand. Now, it’s Christmas and their son Andy wants them together. Between his mischief, an unexpected snowstorm, and the holiday spirit, they’re remembering why they first wanted to be together. But which one will give up their dream for the other?  

A Match of her Own (by Sarah Anne Crouch) 

Victoria Wood is torn between elation and devastation now that her sister is married and gone. When she realizes her sister’s best friend is alone and best-friend-less on Christmas, she knows just what to do. Set her up with a boyfriend! But pesky Jared Knight keeps getting in the way. Jared can’t date Victoria—she’s too immature—but he can’t convince his heart to move on. How will he keep Victoria from ruining everyone’s love lives? When will she realize her perfect match is closer than she thinks? 

Jingle Bell Matchmakers (by Lori DeJong) 

When country music star Aubrey Mayfield is lured home after years away, she’s bewildered when she and ex-fiance-now-widowed-dad Cody Lansdale keep finding themselves in the same place at the same time. As they become reacquainted, however, old feelings stir. Aubrey’s at a crossroads in her career and is contemplating a change. But when a chance at headlining her own tour takes her back to Nashville, Cody realizes her dreams may once again come between them. Unless God, with a little help from the Jingle Bell Committee, has a better plan.  

The Santa Setup (by Heather Greer) 

Turning friendship into love takes magic. Good thing Nicholas Eckert and Julie Clarke work at Christmas Wonderland. The attraction brims with holiday magic, not to mention four teenage elves determined that Mr. and Mrs. Claus stop playing a couple and become one. The teens will need more than mistletoe to pair up these two. Julie is seeing someone, and Nick won’t risk their friendship for possible love. Only the elven employees’ outrageous antics stand a chance of setting up Santa in time for Christmas.  


My Review

A Match Made at Christmas is a fresh set of novellas that capture holiday cheer. At the core, they focus on matchmaking, and each one includes gentle faith themes.

The mix of tales in this bundle felt great. It made every story fun and easy to remember. These novellas give off that cozy Hallmark vibe, and it put a smile on my face.

First up is A-Parent-ly Christmas. It follows a couple facing marriage troubles, with their 8-year-old kid pulling Parent Trap tricks to reunite them. I chuckled at the boy's antics, even as his mom and dad got annoyed at times.

A Match of Her Own reimagines Jane Austen's Emma. The plot sticks close to the classic, where pals become a couple. Victoria could be a bit stubborn at times, but Jared stayed calm and patient as he waited for Victoria to see the light.

Jingle Bell Matchmakers spotlights old high school flames who never tied the knot. Aubrey's now a famous country singer, while Cody lives in their small town as a widower with a young pre-teenage girl. Their moms secretly play matchmaker, forcing them into shared moments. This tale was adorable, and I loved the leads.

The Santa Setup stars childhood buddies Nicholas and Julie, who've always been friends. The two best friends team up at Christmas Wonderland as Santa and Mrs. Claus, an event I'd visit in a heartbeat. The teen staff spots their spark and schemes to pair them up. I had a blast with the kids' efforts, tough as it was with Julie's other admirer.  The best-friends-to-lovers arc is a top pick for me, and this one nails it.

If you want lighthearted holiday romances packed with laughs and sweet faith notes, add A Match Made at Christmas to your must-read list.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

 


About the Authors

Amy R. Anguish Sarah Anne Crouch

Amy R Anguish grew up a preacher’s kid, and in spite of having lived in seven different states that are all south of the Mason Dixon line, she is not a football fan. Currently, she resides in Tennessee with her husband, daughter, and son, and usually a bossy cat or two. Amy has an English degree from Freed-Hardeman University that she intends to use to glorify God, and she wants her stories to show that while Christians face real struggles, it can still work out for good. Connect with Amy by visiting abitofanguish.weebly.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Sarah Anne Crouch lives in Arkansas with her husband, three children, and thousands of books. She always wanted to be an author, but spent some time as a teacher, earned a degree in library science, and makes feeble attempts to corral her small children as a stay-at-home mom. Sarah loves reading books, recipes, piano music, and emails from readers. Connect with Sarah by visiting sarahannecrouch.wordpress.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

  Heather Greer

Lori DeJong (pronounced DeeYung) is a contemporary Christian romance author who enjoys penning stories full of grace and the redemptive power of God’s love that inspire others to hope regardless of circumstance, find joy in the moment, and grow in their faith. Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Lori arrived in Texas in 2005 and dug those roots right in. She currently resides in beautiful Georgetown, north of Austin, with her husband of three decades. Connect with Lori by visiting loridejongwrites.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Heather Greer loves growing in her relationship with God and helping others do the same. While she’s served in ministries dealing with toddlers through adults, her focus is on encouraging and challenging teen and adult believers to go further in their faith. She is blessed to be able to use her God-given passion for writing to do this, both in her books and blog. Heather is a pastor’s kid from southern Illinois. While she never intended to marry a pastor, she became a pastor’s wife when her husband answered the call to preach five years into their marriage. Now that three of her four kids have flown the nest, Heather enjoys more time for reading and writing and writing about reading. And when she’s not doing any of those things, you’ll probably find her in the kitchen baking for her friends and family. Connect with Heather by visiting heathergreer.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $40 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of A Match Made at Christmas!

A Match Made at Christmas JustRead Tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 11, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 18, 2025. 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.

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

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