Monday, December 15, 2025

Review of New Release- Whispers of the Past by Crystal Mary Lindsey


 From the multi-award-winning author. Crystal Mary Lindsey


This enthralling story is of a young man who left behind his unhappy life in 1925 England, to venture into the unknown and chase a future he could never imagine.

With only a few belongings and a heart bruised by disappointments, he sailed toward Sydney, Australia, a distant land whispered about yet utterly unknown.

As the shoreline of everything familiar faded behind him, one question pressed heavily on his soul: How would he survive alone? And deeper still… how would he endure the ache of leaving his beloved siblings?
What Liam discovered was a world far different from the one he left behind. In that sunburnt country, he was not met with the cold indifference he feared, but with 
unexpected kindness, and strangers who offered help, with friendship, and hope.

Through trial and persistence, he learned manual labor and new trades, laying the foundation of a life he never dreamed possible.

He also met the gentle young woman who became his wife.

As the years unfolded and the world shifted around him…. through hardship, war, love, and loss…. Liam saw a quiet thread woven through every step of his journey: 
God’s faithful hand, guiding him from the shadows of his past into the light of a purposely designed future.

This is the sweeping story of a young man who left his home country to survive….. and instead, he found a destiny shaped by grace, courage, and the unexpected goodness of others.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR










Crystal Mary Lindsey is a retired health professional, widow of Raymond, a Vietnam Veteran and past U.S. Marine. She is also a mother, and devoted grandmother.

She discovered her passion for writing following her retirement from the demanding world of hospitals.

Her hobbies include art, reading, gardening, and research, plus touching lives for Jesus whenever possible.

Her profound appreciation for the transformative power of reading ignited the spark that led her to embark on a writing journey. She has an unwavering goal to encourage and inspire her readers to a more contented state of mind.

As a spiritual Christian (God is a Spirit and we worship HIM in spirit and in truth,) Crystal has been touched by many unexplainable human experiences, which occasionally find their way into her stories. These add depth and intrigue to her narratives and create a unique and compelling blend of spirituality to her storytelling.

Crystal lived and worked in Tennessee with her husband, first as a counselor and after completing medical Boards, as a specialist R.N. In 2007, Raymond decided they would move back to Crystal's home in Queensland, Australia. She has remained there since Raymonds accidental death in 2022.

Credentials: BN (Aus), BSN (USA), MHN, Dip Counselling/Psychology. Cert Theology.

AWARD WINNING AUTHOR (Editor's Choice and Readers Favourite Award x2).

#Christian Fiction, #Inspirational Romance, #Clean Romance, #Clean and Wholesome, #Historical Romance, #Contemporary Romance, #Time Travel Romance, #Medical Romance, #Doctor Romance.

More Books from the Author
   
Whispers of the Past is an inspirational story filled with struggle, forgiveness and redemption. The story gripped my heart from the first few pages, as I got immersed in the story.

The spiritual content is woven seamlessly into the pages and the ending wrapped up everything nicely. The storyline is an emotional one and I found myself reaching for the tissues. Keep them handy. I feel this is one of the author's best. The characters were well-developed. Highly recommended.

 

Sunday, December 14, 2025

Review of Otter B (Children's Books) by Pamela Kennedy and Anne Kennedy Brady

Little Learner Edition- Small size for those small hands!

Otter B Honest









Otter B Honest is the first in the series of children’s books that teach young children basic biblical character traits. In Otter B Honest, Otter breaks his father’s watch while playing pirates with his friend. After trying to hide the broken watch from his father, he learns that honesty is best. Each book in the series ends with a rhyme that reinforces the book’s theme:

“Sometimes you will make mistakes
You hope no one will see.
But always choose to tell the truth,
It’s how you Otter Be!”


Otter B Helpful









Otter B Helpful are children’s picture and board books that teach young kids basic biblical character traits. In this durable Little Learner board book edition, young Otter B’s grandparents are coming for a visit, but his toys are everywhere! Can Otter B help his mother get ready in time?

Each board book includes:

  • A Bible verse that encourages kids to embody the virtue in the book,
  • A fun, memorable rhyme at the end to reinforce the value learned.

“There’s always lots of work to do
in every family.
God says that helping out is best.
It’s how you Otter Be!”

Otter B Kind









Otter B Kind is the second in the series of children’s books that teach young children basic biblical character traits. In this book, Otter is upset when his friend Franklin the frog can’t play with him because he’s sick. He decides to make Franklin a present to cheer him up. Each book in the series ends with a rhyme that reinforces the book’s theme:

“Kindness doesn’t cost a thing
And thoughtfulness is free.
So when you have a chance, be kind.
It’s how you Otter Be!”

Otter B Brave









The Otter B Brave are children’s picture and board books that teach young kids basic biblical character traits. In this durable Little Learner board book edition, young Otter B is afraid to do show-and-tell at school. After Otter B’s dad tells him that God gives us friends to help us be less afraid, Otter decides to use his friend as his show-and-tell item.

Each board book includes:

  • A Bible verse that encourages kids to embody the virtue in the book,
  • A fun, memorable rhyme at the end to reinforce the value learned.

“If you are feeling nervous
And you’re shaky in the knees,
Try asking God to make you brave.
It’s how you Otter Be!”

My Thoughts on the Set

Kids will learn important values from each one of the books.  Each book shares an important lesson that will impact your children as an amazing faith building resource.  Start them early learning from these books. The illustrations are bright and colorful.  They will make a wonderful Christmas gift for any child!  I know my great-grandchildren will love their set.

 Follow the link to watch the author share about Otter B and choose the books best for your kids.

To Purchase



Otter B Honest Picture Book










Otter B Honest is the first in the series of children’s books that teach young children basic biblical character traits. In Otter B Honest, Otter breaks his father’s watch while playing pirates with his friend. After trying to hide the broken watch from his father, he learns that honesty is best. Each book in the series ends with a rhyme that reinforces the book’s theme:

“Sometimes you will make mistakes
You hope no one will see.
But always choose to tell the truth,
It’s how you Otter Be!”












Otter B Kind is the second in the series of children’s books that teach young children basic biblical character traits. In this book, Otter is upset when his friend Franklin the frog can’t play with him because he’s sick. He decides to make Franklin a present to cheer him up. Each book in the series ends with a rhyme that reinforces the book’s theme.


“Kindness doesn’t cost a thing
And thoughtfulness is free.
So when you have a chance, be kind.
It’s how you Otter Be!”











Otter B Brave is the third in the series of children’s books that teach young children basic biblical character traits. In this book, Otter is afraid to do show-and-tell at school. After Otter’s dad tells him that God gives us friends to help us be less afraid, Otter decides to use his friend as his show-and-tell item. 

“If you are feeling nervous
And you’re shaky in the knees,
Try asking God to make you brave.
It’s how you Otter Be!”





















Otter B Helpful
 is the fourth in the series of children’s books that teach young children basic biblical character traits. In this book, Otter learns to be helpful when his grandparents come for a visit.

“There’s always lots of work to do
in every family.
God says that helping out is best.
It’s how you Otter Be!”

 Follow the link to watch the author share about Otter B and choose the books best for your kids.   

To Purchase


My Thoughts on the Larger Set

My older great-grandchildren will love the larger set. The illustrations are colorful and eye-catching and the story teaches them important lessons from these faith building resources. These would also be great for a church children's class, nursery school, home schooled, and make a wonderful Christmas gift for the child that wants to learn and loves books!  Who doesn't love books?



Saturday, December 13, 2025

Blog Tour of Mail-Order Duchess by Misty M. Beller



About the Book



Book: Mail-Order Duchess

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Five sons of an English duke, all raised in the Rocky Mountains…

A marriage born of duty. A love neither expected.

When Enoch Balfour’s eldest brother tragically dies, the weight of family responsibility falls on his shoulders. Now this Montana rancher must train for his role as the next Duke of Clarence—and marry the mail-order bride his brother sent for. Hardened by loss, Enoch has no intention of opening his heart to a stranger, but duty demands he produce an heir.

Mandie Beaumont is a desperate young widow fleeing the sinister advances of her brother-in-law. After arriving in the Montana Territory to marry a man she’s never met, an accident leaves her robbed of her recent memories—memories that conceal a devastating secret. When she discovers she’s carrying a child conceived through betrayal and violence, Mandie fears rejection and ruin. Yet, in Enoch, she finds an unexpected protector whose fierce gentleness makes her long to trust again.

Though Mandie’s charm and resilience begin to thaw Enoch’s guarded heart, he struggles with his fear of loss. When Mandie’s past resurfaces, Enoch must risk everything to save her. If he fails, Mandie will be torn from him—and the love they’ve begun to embrace could be lost forever.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a royal family saga featuring a mail-order bride, amnesia, a secret baby, and an aristocratic marriage of convenience…all set in the rugged Montana Territory.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

 This mail-order bride story is a breath of fresh air, as it's different from the others I have read. The family of brothers living at Balfour Ranch in Montana is originally from England. Mandie leaves her parents' home and heads for Montana to wed William Belfour but is injured along the way and recovers at the ranch.


There are a lot of twists to the story I didn't see coming. I enjoyed the playful banter between the brothers, their faith in God, and the budding romance with lots of tension. The ending was filled with danger and joy. I couldn't put it down-and it had me engaged from the beginning. I highly recommend this new series.

I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.


About the Author



Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author with over 1 million books sold. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

More from Misty

Hello Reader Friends!

I’m BEYOND excited to share a brand new series with you! This idea has been percolating in my mind for a couple years now—a mash-up of two of my favorite historical romance genres: Regency England and the rugged American West.

In the Lords of the Rockies series, you’ll meet the five sons of an English duke who were sent to the wilds of the Montana Territory for their protection when they were boys. They’ve grown up there, become ranchers and mountain men in their own right.

It’s Regency meets the Rockies as these aristocratic brothers navigate the challenges of ranch life.

I’m especially excited to introduce you to the first book in the series, Mail-Order Duchess!

Enoch Balfour is one of my all-time favorite heroes…so incredibly swoony. He’s the second son, which means he never thought he would have to return to England and take over his father’s role as the Duke of Clarence. But now his eldest brother has passed in an unexpected riding accident. And Enoch has become the heir intended.

Can you imagine how hard that must have been? Suddenly having to leave the only life you’ve ever known to take up the duties of a title an ocean away?

And then there’s Mandie Beaumont, a young widow hoping for a fresh start in Montana. But when she arrives, an accident steals her recent memories, leaving her with no idea why she left her comfortable life in Savannah to travel across the country and marry a rancher she’s never met. Or maybe her previous life wasn’t so comfortable…

Can you imagine waking up one day to find yourself in a strange place with no recollection of how you got there or what you were running from?

I don’t want to give away too much, but let’s just say Mail-Order Duchess has all the ingredients for a story you won’t be able to put down—a marriage of convenience, hidden secrets, and an unlikely romance blossoming in the face of incredible odds. I’m so excited to share this story with you!

I’ve had such fun crafting the unique premise of an English aristocratic family making their way in the American West. Get ready for more heartfelt Western adventures tinged with Regency flair as the Lords of the Rockies series continues!

I pray you love Mail-Order Duchess!

Blessings!

Misty

                  Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 2

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 3

Texas Book-aholic, December 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 4

Devoted Steps, December 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 5

Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 6

Simple Harvest Reads, December 6 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 7

For Him and My Family, December 7

Books You Can Feel Good About, December 8

Lyssa Loves Books, December 8

lakesidelivingsite, December 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9

Connie’s History Classroom, December 10

Artistic Nobody, December 10 (Guest Review from Donna)

Jeanette’s Thoughts , December 11

Melissa’s Bookshelf, December 11

Holly’s Book Corner, December 12

Mary Hake, December 12

Bizwings Blog, December 13

Cover Lover Book Review, December 13

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 14

Blossoms and Blessings, December 14

Pause for Tales, December 15

Devoted To Hope, December 15

                  Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

 https://promosimple.com/ps/3e364/mail-order-duchess-celebration-tour-giveaway

Friday, December 12, 2025

Super Simple Science (4 Book Set) by Brock Eastman

 



Super Simple Science 4 book set introduces curious toddlers and preschoolers to God's amazing world through science!

1. Introduces young children to core learning concepts.
2. Each story features interactive questions and easy-to-do experiments.
3. Perfect for homeschooling, church nursery, Storytime or bedtime.
4. Faith and Science has never been so easy or fun!
5. Teach your little scientists about God's amazing world!
6. They make great Christmas gifts!



To Purchase

About the Author


Brock Eastman is a passionate science educator and children's author dedicated to making complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting for young minds. With a background in science communication, he creates engaging stories that spark curiosity and love for learning. Dr. Fizzlebop makes science fun! Engaging storytelling, colorful illustrations, and simple explanations transform complex scientific concepts into delightful learning adventures.


Super Simple Alphabet & Animals with Dr. Fizzlebop
An A-Z letters that go with animal God created in the Kingdom. Easy to learn.

Colors and Counting with Dr. Fizzlebop
Children explore the colors of the world while learning to count. A fun activity!





























Weather Science with Dr. Fizzlebop

Dr. Fizzlebop teaches about the four seasons and what God has created.
A great hardcover book that's easy to hold for small hands. Also, able to wipe off. This book is produced by Focus on the Family. The book has colorful illustrations and teaches about the four seasons and what God has created.

I loved the simple concepts on each page. The text is easy to read and explains in a way that young minds will understand.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.


Space Science with Dr. Fizzlebop

Dr. Fizzlebop explores all there is to see in the sky and what God created in the Heaven's and Earth.









Thursday, December 11, 2025

Blog Tour of Gathered from the North by Barbara A. Curtis


About the Book



Book: Gathered from the North

Author: Barbara A. Curtis

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: November 18, 2025

He survived the war, but he didn’t come home whole. Hope of a ready-made family promises healing—until he learns the truth about his love’s adopted baby.

Beth Calloway has always longed for a family, but after a childhood marked by loss, she’s learned to live quietly—typing reports at the Boise Foundling Home and keeping her heart carefully tucked away. Until one snowy night, a baby is left on her doorstep. With no room at the orphanage and no one else to help, she takes the risk…never expecting the handsome wounded soldier next door to take notice.

Recently discharged from the army, Private Timothy McPhearson is a man on a mission. Haunted by his best friend’s death during WWII, he’s determined to uncover the truth—and escape the guilt that won’t let him go. Falling for his grandmother’s quiet tenant and the baby she’s sheltering isn’t part of the plan…but Beth and little Elly Rose begin to chip away at the walls he’s built.

Just as the three begin to imagine life as a family, a shattering revelation threatens to tear them apart. When the truth about baby Elly Rose comes to light—and danger closes in—Beth must fight to protect the child she’s come to love…even if it means letting go of the man who’s claimed her heart.

A heart-tugging postwar romance of second chances, found family, and love worth risking everything for.

 

Click here to get our copy!

 

My Review

This is the first book I've read by this author. I am amazed at her ability to bring 1945 to the written page in an easy-to-read style that made me feel like I was there. Her characters also had great depth, showed a lot of emotion, and worked through their struggles with faith in God.

Beth Calloway had a big heart and lots of love to give. Her faith was strong despite the hardship she endured. The danger she faced seemed real, and it kept me turning the pages, wondering how each predicament would turn out.

I enjoyed this book a lot and would highly recommend it to readers who want to be totally immersed in the story. In some places, you need to get out the tissues; in others, you will feel joy. The era's details were well represented—a very uplifting and inspirational ending.

I was given a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

About the Author



Barbara A. Curtis lives in Connecticut with her husband, and they have one grown son, a blessing to their hearts. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Novel Academy.

 

 

 

 

More from Barbara

In Gathered from the North, Mrs. McPhearson’s first step in solving a problem is to sit down with a cup of tea. During the same year of 1945, another tea drinker in real life—Ruth Campbell Bigelow—was enjoying tea in her New York brownstone and experimenting with finding a flavorful blend using black tea, orange rind, and sweet spices. When she hit upon the final recipe, Constant Comment was born, along with the Bigelow Tea Company.

While flavored teas are easy to find in grocery stores, tea shops, and online now, we can be grateful for Ruth Campbell Bigelow’s days of experimentation in her own kitchen, as Constant Comment was the first specialty tea in the United States. And where did the name come from? When she shared her new tea with others, one reported that this tea “caused nothing but constant comments.”

I hope you enjoy Gathered from the North—perhaps over a cup of tea, specialty blend or otherwise.

Blessings!

Barbara

                Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 3

Sydney Schmied Books, December 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 4

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 5

Texas Book-aholic, December 6

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 8

For Him and My Family, December 9

Simple Harvest Reads, December 10 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Bizwings Blog, December 11

Connie’s History Classroom, December 12

lakesidelivingsite, December 13

Cover Lover Book Review, December 13

Devoted To Hope, December 14

Stories By Gina, December 15 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, December 15

Pause for Tales, December 16

                  Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Barbara is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3e368/gathered-from-the-north-celebration-tour-giveaway