DarleneFoster – Author D.L. Finn

Books That Changed Me 2025 Winter Edition! #mustread #writingcommunity #whattoread

Welcome to the final edition of Books that Changed Me 2025 Winter! I have loved sharing some of the very best books over the last seven years, but I won’t be doing this in the new year. I’m sure I’ll find another way to highlight books and will continue posting my reviews. Past books will still be available on my website if you ever need a book to read.

Here are my final books, and as many great books have recently been released, this could have easily been a much longer list. I am including their cover and blurb since you’ve already seen my review. Thank you for following along all these years.

Beyond the Fetters

By Balroop Singh

BLURB

Some babies are born with invisible fetters. They may strut about in their homes with wishes of flying high, but their wings never grow, and if they do, they are clipped by the diktats of traditions. Such stories remain within the hearts of girls, as their lips are sealed by cultural compulsions.

Earthy is one such girl, but her determination to break free could never be vanquished. She yearns to grow up again, to feel the sunshine that filters through the arms of her parents, to soak in the showers of harmony, to giggle with abandon and swirl with her dreams, but the sudden, untimely demise of her father rips her whole world apart, and the little joys of childhood vanish. From emotional deluge to resilience and detachment, she treads the paths of her life, struggling to rise above the average.

Dolly’s freedom takes her away from her family, and her choices boomerang. Imperceptible fetters follow her in the garb of love that she chooses. Should we pay attention to Grandma’s wise words – “we are tied to our destiny?” ‘Beyond the Fetters’ explores the possibilities of girls looking beyond their so-called destiny.

The Weight of Snow and Regret

By Elizabeth Gauffreau

BLURB

For over 100 years, no one wanted to be sent to the Sheldon Poor Farm. By 1968, no one wanted to leave.

Amid the social turmoil of 1968, the last poor farm in Vermont is slated for closure. By the end of the year, the twelve destitute residents remaining will be dispatched to whatever institutions will take them, their personal stories lost forever.

Hazel Morgan and her husband Paul have been matron and manager at the Sheldon Poor Farm for the past 20 years. Unlike her husband, Hazel refuses to believe the impending closure will happen. She believes that if she just cares deeply enough and works hard enough, the Sheldon Poor Farm will continue to be a safe haven for those in need, herself and Paul included.

On a frigid January afternoon, the overseer of the poor and the town constable from a nearby town deliver a stranger to the poor farm for an emergency stay. She refuses to tell them her name, where she came from, or what her story is. It soon becomes apparent to Hazel that whatever the woman’s story is, she is deeply ashamed of it.

Hazel fights to keep the stranger with them until she is strong enough to face, then resume, her life–while Hazel must face the tragedies of her own past that still haunt her.

Told with compassion and humor, The Weight of Snow & Regret tells the poignant story of what it means to care for others in a rapidly changing world.

Edge of Twilight: Legends of Madeira

By Joan Hall

BLURB

Death comes to those who seek the treasure…

Two hours before her wedding, Blaire Edwards walks away from everything—comfortable home, lucrative job, accomplished fiancé—rather than bending to her mother’s pre-laid plans for her life. In a sad but serendipitous turn of events,Blaire inherits a 25,000-acre ranch from her maternal grandfather, a man she never met because she was told he died years earlier. Within days, she moves to Madeira, New Mexico, to claim her birthright despite knowing nothing about ranching or country living.

Employees quickly warm to her. Not only does she intend to keep operations as they are, but she’s nothing like her mom. Many remember Roslyn, and few have a favorable impression.

Blaire soon realizes her mother lied about a lot of things, but family secrets aren’t the only mysteries. A rash of rustling costs the ranch several head of cattle, unexplained lights linked to a legend about treasure appear on her property at twilight, someone nearly kills her dog, and one of the wranglers is murdered.

Then comes the most shocking news of all.

Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog

By Darlene Foster

BLURB

Twelve-year-old Amanda Jane Ross is invited to be a bridesmaid for her cousin’s wedding in Ireland! She falls in love with the Emerald Isle the moment she lands in Dublin. The warm, friendly Irish people immediately make her feel at home. Towering castles, ancient graveyards, and the stunning green countryside are filled with fascinating legends, enthralling folktales, and alarming secrets.

Things take a dark turn when disaster strikes. Amanda wonders if there will be a wedding at all. As she joins the search for a missing horse, she stumbles upon a world of screaming banshees, bloody battles, and dangerous peat bogs. The closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous things become. Will she become another body in the bog?

NOTE:

These books were chosen, and the post was made a couple of weeks ago, which makes Joan’s book here even more special.
Tomorrow is the last post of the year. Don’t miss all the amazing results for the challenge!

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book this holiday season! Happy Holidays—Denise

Miracles & Ghosts Blog Tour Stop Six! #DarleneFoster #writingcommunity #newrelease

Today is day six of the Miracles & Ghosts Past Blog Tour, and we’re visiting Darlene Foster. This supportive author has not only created a wonderful character, Amanda, for middle grade readers and us adults, but also written a beautiful memoir that captivated me as my grandmother was born in Alberta. Darlene shares her adventures and always offers a kind word. If you haven’t read anything by Darlene, you are missing some good reading. Before you head over to the blog post, check out one of my favorites and review.

You Can Take The Girl From The Prairie: Stories about growing up on the Canadian prairies

by Darlene Foster

My five-star review:

“You Can Take The Girl From The Prairie” is a heartwarming collection that glimpses into the author’s life of what it was like growing up in Southern Alberta in the 1950s and 60s. I have always had a curiosity about Alberta since my grandmother was born there in the 1920s. The heartwarming stories had me either laughing or shedding a few tears, and immediately drew me in. Ms. Foster’s family didn’t have all the extras that others had, but she was blessed with a beautiful childhood full of love. I loved the relationship between not only her and her grandmother, but her father, too. It wasn’t always an easy life and there was heartbreak along with the celebrations, but this was a family that was always there for each other. I read this in one sitting and can only hope there are more stories to come. I can highly recommend these stories.

BLOG TOUR STOP SIX

9-24 John Howell
9-26 Sandra Cox
10-1 Miriam Hurdle
10-8 Jan Sikes
11-5 Lauren Scott
11-6 Darlene Foster
11-12 Diana Peach
11-20 Robbie Cheadle
12-3 Noelle Granger
12-4 Colleen Chesebro

November Book Reviews! #SallyCronin #MarshaIngrao #BalroopSingh #DarleneFoster #PriscillaBettis #ElizabethGauffreau #writingcommunity #whattoread #mustread

Here are the amazing books I read in October that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

What’s in a Name?

By Sally Cronin

“What’s in a Name?” is a collection of short stories that are centered around a name. Each story evoked different emotions as each person emerged from their name. There was a nun, an orphan, a widower, and so many more wonderful characters that pulled me right into their story. I can’t pick a favorite story as they were all so different, yet I connected with each one. A well-written collection that I can easily recommend.

Embracing the Power to Live

By Marsha Ingrao

“Embracing the Power to Live” is a unique collection of poetry and insights that weave through Ms. Ingrao’s life. It’s spiritual and humorous through some of life’s toughest times. I enjoyed the quotes that gave a strong sense of the author’s faith and strength, plus the background that accompanied the poetry tied it all together. The poetry is a delicate mix of symbolic and free verse spread over nine sections. Here’s a sample of poems, of many, that I highlighted: “It’s hard being semi-smart because,/It’s so hard to choose./I have many skills with several flaws/And activities that enthuse…”—It’s Hard being Semi Smart, “Someone might pamper their ferret/Might even pamper their parrot/No proud Shih Tzu owner forgets/Oh how I could pamper my pets…”—Pampered Pets, “So many thoughts inside a poet’s head,/Grasping for words,/Combinations of words churning inside,/Longing to become profound…”—Compelled to Write, “gentle, knees-to-chest/plant in hand, waiting for love/centuries elapse…”—Patience Over the Centuries, and “towering oak trees/leaves disappear, dangling limbs/from storms long ago/silhouette against the moon/worn dependability…”—Aging Gracefully. I can highly recommend this for all those who love poetry and life’s journey.

Beyond the Fetters

By Balroop Singh

“Beyond the Fetters” is a beautifully told story of Earthy and her family in India. Earthy is raised in a family where her brother is the favored child, as is their custom, and she is either ignored or poorly treated. Although she is expected to be obedient and know her place, she and her sister are able to get an education. The story centers on Earthy, but the thoughts and motives of many of the surrounding people are also mixed in. The story focuses on events in her life from childhood and beyond. I quickly fell in love with Earthy, as she always spoke her mind and sought to understand. However, I think her strongest characteristic was her determination and refusal to give up. Her relationship with Dolly was a genuine friendship, and the support she needed growing up. I like how that plays out later when they are older. Earthy had to deal with a mom who either ignored her or was cruel, an arrogant brother, caring for her little sister, and an arranged marriage. Still, she slowly found her voice. An emotionally driven story that has some journal posts mixed in that are poetic and thought-provoking. The places traveled captured my imagination, and the unfairness of how women were treated made me more invested in Earthy and her journey. A wonderful debut novel from a favorite poet, and I hope there will be more! I can easily recommend this.

Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog

By Darlene Foster

Twelve-year-old Amanda is off to Ireland to be a bridesmaid in her cousin’s wedding. As she falls in love with Ireland, so do I. It’s a place I’ve always wanted to visit, and I got a beautiful glimpse of it through the lush descriptions and interesting history. Amanda feels immediately welcomed and starts exploring, but she finds herself in another mystery. First, there’s a missing horse, and then the bride. As she sets out to figure out what happened, there are a few not-so-nice people who don’t want her to. I love how I was captured from the very first page; plus, it was easy to get to know the characters, even if you’ve never read one before. Although it is intended for middle-grade readers, I also enjoy this adventure. I can highly recommend this story for children and adults who love clean mysteries, history, amazing scenery, and great characters.

Whispers of a Southern Moon

By Priscilla Bettis

“Whispers of a Southern Moon” is a beautiful faith-based collection of short stories and poetry. The stories take the reader on a journey where the message is that one is never alone, even in the darkest circumstances. It’s a well-balanced combination of entertainment and Christian reading. The poetry is lush and full of imagery and emotion connected to the stories. Many subjects are covered, like aging, inner beauty, addiction, relationships, reality, and Alzheimer’s, which offered a truth I could relate to. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but “Whispers of a Southern Moon” was a beautiful tale of an ex-dancer who never got over the loss of her family. The house felt like a character within the story. What made this more special was the author’s sharing of her personal journey of how she found and grew in her Christian faith. I can easily recommend this collection.

The Weight of Snow and Regret

By Elizabeth Gauffreau

“The Weight of Snow and Regret” is a historical fiction that focuses on the closing of Sheldon’s Poor House and its history. Hazel has a long history with the poorhouse, with her youthful experience there and currently with her husband as caretakers. Though mainly told through her, it also dives into Claire and how she came to end up there. How she was drawn into music and pulled in a different direction than her family. Both of their stories captured my heart, and at times, I shed tears, especially for Hazel and the heartbreaks she suffered. A well-written and beautifully told story, it switches between the current time in the sixties to past events and lives. The research shone through, and I learned a lot about poorhouses that I didn’t know much about. The people and stories became real, and I found myself wanting the best for them. Untreated mental health led to the downfall of many, and it was sad to see how little was done for them. This is a book and characters I will think about long after I read the last page, and I can highly recommend it.

UPDATE

I am back after a week with the grandkids while hubby was sick, and the minute they went home, I got sick. Although I spent the vacation sick, I managed to enjoy Halloween with more limited events. No trip to Oregon this vacation, next time. I should be good with getting sick for a while 🙂
Next week is Perspective Challenge Eleven! Second to last one.
Watch for tour stops this week.

Embrace your inner child by reading a great book this fall! D. L. Finn (Denise)

New Release! “Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog” by Darlene Foster #newrelease #mustread

I’m thrilled to be sharing here today, “Amanda in Ireland: The Body in the Bog” a new release by the amazing Darlene Foster. It’s a fun read, see my review below.

BLURB

Amanda in Ireland VIDEO LINK

EXCERPT

“I-I’m a bit claustrophobic and that looks like a very
narrow opening.”
“It’s not that tight, and once you’re through, it opens up.
Look, if I can fit through it, you can. I’m bigger than you.”
Amanda nodded. “OK, I guess so.”
She gingerly made her way up to her cousin. He went
through the opening first, turning sideways and crouching
down. Amanda took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and
squeezed through, her heart hammering in her chest.
She felt a breeze and opened her eyes, realizing she had
made it through, although it was very dark. “Taylor!” she
shouted. “Are you in here?”
No answer.
Her chest tightened as she started to panic. Goosebumps
slid along the back of her neck. Then she saw a faint light and
shouted, “Taylor.”
“Over here!” He waved his phone. “Be careful, hold on to
the wall.”

Amanda made her way to the light, hugging the cool wall
until she got to her cousin. “That light isn’t very bright.”

“I forgot to charge my phone and I’m running low on
power. You’ll have to stick close to me. There’s a place I want to
check out. It’s actually a large chamber, but hard to get to unless
you know it’s there.” Taylor turned and started walking, leaving
her in the dark again.
Amanda could hear the drip-drip of water as she felt her
way along the wall. She tried to follow the outline of her
cousin, but his cell phone light got dimmer and dimmer. Soon
it was almost totally dark.
“Taylor, Taylor, are you still here?”
He didn’t answer. Amanda felt an opening in the wall. Did
he turn here or go straight?
“Taylor, I don’t know which way to go.”
Amanda felt tears well up. Trembling, she thought of Tom
Sawyer and Becky Thatcher lost in the underground caves for
three days.
She listened for an answer but only heard the constant
dripping. And then she heard something else. It was faint, but
it sounded like a horse snorting.

MY FIVE-STAR REVIEW

PURCHASE LINK FOR AMANDA IN IRELAND

Author Bio

Darlene Foster grew up on a ranch in Alberta, Canada, where her love of reading inspired her to see the world and write stories. Her Amanda Travels series features spunky Amanda Ross, a twelve-year-old girl who loves to travel. All ages enjoy following Amanda as she unravels one mystery after another in unique destinations. Darlene is retired and has a house in Spain where she writes full-time. Her constant interest and enthusiasm for everything keep her young at heart. When not travelling, meeting interesting people, and collecting ideas for her books, Darlene enjoys spending time with her family in Canada and with her husband and entertaining dogs in Spain.

Author Links

August Book Reviews! @Sandra_Cox @supermegawoman @RobertaEaton17 @YvetteMCalleiro @dave_astor #mustread #bookreviews #writingcommunity #readingcoummunity

Here are the books I read in July that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

And the Grave Awaits book cover with red roses against a mainly gray backgroun.

Mateo’s Woman

By Sandra Cox

This third Mateo book continues the story of shifter Mateo and his finance Blair. They are planning their marriage, but something is wrong with Blair after being bitten by an evil enemy. Blair’s mother, Nadine, shows up to help but ends up in the middle of something I couldn’t have predicted. Fortunately, Mateo’s father, who is also a shifter, is there to assist them, but the situation becomes difficult to manage. I love the depth of the relationship between Mateo and Blair and Blair and Lisa. The exquisitely written setting and town turn fiction into a desirable destination that I would be eager to visit, especially in worry-free times. Several unexpected turns make this a gripping read, threatening to obstruct Mateo’s and Blair’s happily ever after. A fantastic addition to Mateo’s world, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend “Mateo’s Woman”!

Amanda in Scotland: The Standing Stones

By Darlene Foster

Amanda is with her friend Leah, visiting Leah’s aunt in Scotland on a small island called Arran. While visiting a castle, they run into a woman dressed in clothes from the past that they helped. Yet, after there was no trace of her. Amanda jumps into the mystery while visiting some interesting places along the way. Although written for middle-grade readers, I enjoy these stories too. They provide not only a fun mystery but also in-depth history and traditions of the places visited. Scotland has captured my interest, so the history and vivid settings were my favorite parts. I would love to visit this island. There are hidden rooms, disappearing boats, and what seems like a ghost that makes this story a page-turner. Perfect for younger readers and those like me who are young at heart!

And the Grave Awaits

by Roberta Eaton Cheadle

“And the Grave Awaits” is a well-written collection of short stories that pulled me in from the first page. Some stories were based on actual events, and others were more in the paranormal realm. The details that went into the historical fiction stories transported me to that time and place. I felt for the hardships the children who swept chimneys underwent under cruel adults in “An Eye for an Eye” or the women painting dials with radioactive paints in “All that Glitters is not Gold.” “The Bite” caught my attention immediately and when wolf spiders came up, I was all in. They are local spiders that have always fascinated me and this spin on spiders and humans was intriguingly unique. After each of the sixteen stories, there’s information like where the story has been published or the history behind it. A fantastic collection I can highly recommend, especially for those who like stories with a darker twist.

Karma Doesn’t Kill

By Yvette M. Calleiro

“Karma Doesn’t Kill” serves as a cautionary tale of a young man’s poor decisions. Growing up, JT had to overcome various difficulties, including having an alcoholic mother and a father who was a convicted felon. He started down the wrong path living with his mother, but his father stepped in and got custody of him. His life appeared to be improving, but then tragedy hit and he ended up back where he started. The story starts with JT being cared for by his little brother. JT shares his story of how he ended up bedridden. Although I knew the outcome, his journey captured my heart, and I was rooting for him. Even with a heartbreaking outcome for JT, he developed an inspiring inner strength, too. A well-written story based on a true story that illustrates the lasting impact of a solitary choice. It’s a quick but powerful read that I highly recommend.

Misty the Cat . . . Unleashed: The Spirited Adventures and Amusing Antics of an Asthmatic Feline on the Loose

By Dave Astor

“Misty the Cat … Unleashed” is told through the cat’s humorous point of view. Out on his daily morning walk, Misty gets separated from his human and chased under a porch in an unfriendly dog’s backyard. Misty waits for the dog to go to sleep at 8:30 pm—or when it gets dark. The cat keeps himself occupied reliving his life stories. He has a strong opinion on various topics, such as the ideal guitar in a song, rewriting classic titles, favorite shows, and his political stance. He can swiftly shift between subjects in his observations, showcasing his quick-wittedness. Although entertained by his stories, I was concerned that Misty was not only stuck under a porch in the heat, but was missing a dose of his needed asthma medication. If you have a love for cats or animals, you’ll enjoy spending time with Misty and his humans.

NOTE: I know I have been scarce, but between our phone line was down which runs our internet (It’s fixed now), some pulled muscles (Yes, connected to the next item), and having to do more clearing on our property in hopes of keeping our homeowner’s insurance (May now have to hire loggers. New rule trees can’t touch each other. This follows hours of work on our part. It took a few emails to get it clearly explained to me. It’s almost like they don’t want us to renew… lol)

In the middle of all of this, I am doing my final edits for my Christmas collection, too. I haven’t been able to visit blogs or have my usual blogs here like I enjoy doing. I am not sure when I’ll be back to my regular schedule. I will still post book reviews and new releases! xo

Embrace your inner child this summer by reading a good book! D. L. Finn

June Book Reviews! @TonyaWrites @EichinChangLim @JillWeatherholt @piketoni1 @supermegawoman @Marjorie_Mallon #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #whattoread #mustread #bookreviews

Here are the books I read in May that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

Baubles to Die For ( A Shell Island Mystery Book 1)

By Tonya Penrose

A widow who runs a bookstore, Page, is on vacation with her cousin Betsy at a seaside she had inherited. While Page contemplates selling the house, she gets an intuition about a neighbor. In the past, the cousins have been involved in murders and helped the police solve them with Page’s gift. Despite her vow to stay out of it, there’s a murder and theft that require investigation. Plus, the good-looking neighbor intrigues Page, who appears to be involved somehow in it. I liked how Page and Betsy connected with their zest for life and their effortless humor. The author’s vivid description of the setting enabled me to easily imagine myself sitting on the beach with them. A sweet, cozy mystery with plenty of suspects to keep me guessing. A great start to A Shell Island Mystery Series with two entertaining middle-aged sleuths.

Ultimate Revenge: A Thrilling and Suspenseful Short Story

By Eichin Chang-Lim

Russell has tried to put his past behind him after going to jail for delivering a package. His wife waited for him, and they have a beautiful daughter together, yet revenge eats away at him. One day, he sees the man who gave him that package and then disappears after Russell is arrested. Russell plans what he considers justice. Although this is a sequel to “Love, A Tangled Knot,” which I haven’t read, I had no problem following the story. As Russell succumbs to hatred and anger, he ventures into a realm from which he may not be able to escape. I was rooting for Russell that he would make the right decision when the time came, and he’d put that energy into his healing and family. Despite being a quick read, it was still rich in depth. The additional flash fiction section was a treat and made this a fantastic read that I can easily recommend.

Her Son’s Faithful Companion: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance

By Jill Weatherholt

I am happy to be back in Bluebell Canyon. It’s a town I would want to live in. Caitlyn has come back to her childhood home to fix and sell it. She is an ex-barrel racer who is under a load of debt from her adopted son’s epilepsy. Although she needs to make this sale, the town’s excessive kindness makes it hard for her to leave. Seeing characters from “Their Inseparable Bond” and meeting new ones was wonderful. I enjoyed seeing Caitlyn, Henry, and neighbor Logan’s special bond develop. While Caitlyn wants to do things for herself and Henry and move back home, it’s heartwarming to see people step up for them in big and small ways. The epilepsy was handled well, and I could relate because I had a father who had it and a daughter who outgrew it. Although, I worried when Caitlyn didn’t share that her son had it but understood Henry wanted to feel normal for a bit. I loved the duck, Donald, and Henry’s attachment to her and why. This Christian Romance is a delightful blend of rich settings and small-town kindness that I highly recommend.

Warning Signs

By Carol Balawyder

Eugene, the serial killer, meets a woman he feels he can trust. Angie is that young woman who has spent years caring for her addicted mother and all she wants is to be loved. Detective Van Ray is trying to stop the man who is killing young girls. The story is told from all their points of view and dives into the psychological effects of abuse, loneliness, determination, and blind love. Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses, some more than others. I couldn’t help but worry for Angie, who ignored all the warning signs in her relationship. I wondered if love could be the answer to everything or her undoing. Each character was flawed in their way and would go beyond what is expected in certain situations. Detective Vay Ray just wanted the truth, but Eugene was searching for a cure to stop a side of himself. It all blended as certain facts emerged to the surface, but that only added to more possibilities. A thrilling page-turner that kept me engaged as I sped to the conclusion.

Shh, Purely Poetry

By M.J. Mallon

A loving collection of poetry that delicately weaves in relationships at many stages. Many are sensual, full of texture and images, and some offer unique takes on human interaction. Here are a few beautiful passages: “The Sweetness/The longing/Each kiss deeper/different and the same/Like I belonged to more than him/Like I belonged to the poetry.”؅—Dining on Poetry, “…beautiful calligraphy to highlight/tiny ink splodges to add character/tear drops to remind me of sad days.”—Love Hidden In the Margin, and “She is fair and I am dark/Slight and I am robust/We fill our together/completing our silhouettes.”—Silhouettes. “Shh, Purely Poetry” is meant to be savored more than once by lovers of sensuous and thoughtful poems.

Linda’s Midlife Crisis

By Toni Pike

Linda is celebrating her fiftieth birthday surrounded by friends at a party her husband, Ron, provided. Although it seemed like a nice gesture on Ron’s part, he gave a speech that quickly summed up how he treated his wife. I immediately thought Linda should leave him, but she smiled it away, which showed how beaten down she was. She was also a teacher, a profession she’d loved until the support for teachers faded away under a new principal. This all spiraled into an event at her work that pushed her into a breakdown. When Ron lost patience in caring for his recovering wife, he left. Here, in the darkest part of Linda’s life, she found a strength she didn’t know she had. Healing began and her voice emerged. At first, I cringed at the treatment Linda allowed her husband to get away with. He was truly a horrible person. Even when he appeared to be defending his wife, it quickly twisted and became about him. When Linda took control of her life, I cheered for her. She found ways to improve her mental and physical health, step by step. There was a shocking twist at one point, but she was finally at a point to deal with it. I loved how far she went and was open to being happy again. It was satisfying that Ron got what was coming to him, too. A wonderful story of second chances and healing after an emotionally abusive marriage. I can easily recommend “Linda’s Midlife Crisis.”

Amanda in Alberta: The Writing on the Stone Amanda Travels #4

By Darlene Foster

Amanda stays close to home in this story when her friend, Leah, visits her from England. They explore her beautiful area and go to Calgary Stampede, take a horse ride with Mary, visit Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, and explore a museum. Amanda finds a rock that someone dropped with strange writing. She hangs on to it, wanting to ask Mary about it. Unfortunately, the rock has the interest of some unsavory men. I loved exploring Alberta with Amanda. It’s a place I am very curious about since my grandmother was born there. There is attention to detail in the setting and the lifestyle that I found fascinating. The relationship between Amanda and Leah was more like sisters than friends, and Amanda’s family was very welcoming. The history of the tribes and rodeos made me want to plan my next vacation there. Another wonderful adventure with Amanda that is wonderful for middle-grade readers and those young at heart. I can easily recommend “Amanda in Alberta.”

Mystical Greenwood

By Andrew McDowell

In this YA fantasy, fifteen-year-old Dermot works as an apprentice with his father, trying to overcome his rebellious past. He has a somewhat strained relationship with his mother and favored younger brother, Brian. Everything changes though, when a rare sighting of a gryphon leads to him clinging to the giant creature while the village tries to shoot it down. He ends up in the forest being helped by a recluse woman and her grandson for his injuries. Once she tends to him, Dermot ends up at the edge of the forest. Returning home, he has a run-in with the sheriff, who isn’t a fan of the young man. After this event, things change between the brothers as a small level of trust develops between them, especially when Dermot sneaks his younger brother into the forest to meet the woman. Then, the brothers must come together and join forces when the village is attacked. I am drawn in by the good vs evil theme as the good embraces nature the evil seeks to destroy it. Some of my favorite characters are the recluse woman, her grandson, and the animals, including thegryphon, unicorns, and dog. These two boys find themselves thrown into a battle they aren’t prepared for. I appreciated the amount of attention to detail that presented this world clearly, but it was the times spent with the boys or people fleeing that held me captive. The forest and animals came to life and made me root for their safety. A unique tale that fueled a battle that will continue into the second book that I have on preorder.

NOTE: I will be on vacation next week. So, it will be quiet here and on social media, other than a special post tomorrow. I will be over on Story Empire on June 12th. I’ll be back on June 18th.

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! D. L. Finn

November Book Reviews! @supermegawoman @bakeandwrite @stacitroilo @teagangeneviene @SueColetta1 @Virgilante @LBroday #writingcommunity #whattoread #bookreviews #mustreads

The BEK Curse

By Jonathan Pongratz

Richard and Maria have bought the home of their dreams, where they can farm to supplement their retirement. They are a loving couple, and life seems good for them until there is a persistent knock at the door. Unfortunately, they answer and find two black-eyed children who make a strange request. Although I was rooting for this couple, I had a feeling things would not be the same for them after this visit. It is a quick read that will make you rethink opening your front door to strangers, even young ones. I can easily recommend this short horror story.

Amanda in New Mexico: Ghosts in the Wind Amanda Travels #6

By Darlene Foster

I am working my way through the Amanda Series, having already read and enjoyed her excursions to France and Malta. When I heard this book might have some ghosts, it seemed the perfect read, right before Halloween. Amanda is traveling with a group to New Mexico, a place I want to explore. During the trip, Amanda is to work on her writing while others take photos or illustrate their experiences. Her new travel companion, Cleo, believes in ghosts while Amanda doesn’t. Amanda’s beliefs are challenged as she tries to figure out what is going on with Cleo and other unexplainable events. Ms. Foster has done her research, and the history the group explores is rich in detail. I was so intrigued with the setting that I was ready to book my next vacation there, even if there might be ghosts. A wonderful story for not only middle-grade readers but also those who are young at heart and want to do some exploring in New Mexico. I can easily recommend “Amanda in New Mexico.”

Dark Butterflies: Poetry and short stories of mental health

By Jude Kirya Itakali

“Dark Butterflies,” explores not only mental health but the depth of human experience through poetry and short stories. These poems and stories not only moved me with their honesty but left a lasting impression. The illustrations added a beautiful layer to the pain and hope. Here are some lines from a few of the amazing poetry and stories: “Neither grudge nor ambition/Only a blurring face,/Of someone I used to love….”—THE MAROONED, “I gaze upon this island once so beautiful every heart leapt at its sight. Until it bore an injustice so deep its waters remain stained to this very day, salted with tears of bereavement…”—AKAMPENE TANKA PROSE, “In my boudoir the walls are painted black/to blind me from the shadows as they wake/Of futures so bleak and a past without luck/I pray, I confess, for my soul’s dear sake…”—FIGHTING MY DEMONS SONNET, “Rose in a dandelion field/Stain upon yellow/Plucked…”—OUTCAST, and “My refuge looms upon a wuthering cliff/Pale-white with dark soulless windows/The raging sea below…”—WARMTH IN THE HIDDEN. A deep collection that left me contemplating life. I can easily recommend this to poetry lovers.

Sir Chocolate and the Chinese Candy Dragon

By Robbie Cheadle, Michael Cheadle

“Sir Chocolate and the Chinese Candy Dragon” is a charming addition to the children’s Sir Chocolate Series. Chinese Candy Dragon takes all the Halloween candy. How will that impact Halloween and what does the Chinese Candy Dragon learn? The story is told in limericks and rhyming prose. Skillful fondant art characters add color and beauty and are sure to hold any beginning reader’s attention. It’s also a great Halloween read for a parent and a young child to enjoy together. After the story, there are a few recipes included that would make a fun-filled family experience. I can highly recommend this for preschool or beginning readers—and those young at heart.

Love Set in Stone

By Staci Troilo

Rina and Gretchen are good friends who leave work together late at night. They tell the bouncer who walks them out to their cars to go home to his family. Gretchen had forgotten something back inside, but they insisted they’d be fine. He reluctantly leaves and Rina ends up being brutally attacked by a cruel man. In steps Damien to her much-needed rescue. When the police arrive, Damien disappears, much to Rina’s confusion. While the police question Rina and Gretchen’s motives, the attacker makes it seem like he is their victim, but Rina is very much in danger. Damien feels a pull to Rina and wants to protect her but is afraid of her finding out the truth. He is a gargoyle during the day and a human who protects at night or used to. He died a warrior in the 1200s and was given a second chance with a few catches. I loved Damien’s unique and appealing character, along with his interaction with the angel, Anael. Rina was a strong female who went to school during the day and worked hard at night. She was barely scraping by, and I couldn’t help but root for her. Although they were from different times, the chemistry was undeniable. There were some surprising twists and corruption to clear up along the way. I couldn’t have guessed how this story could resolve, which I appreciate. A well-written and sometimes steamy romance that captured me and didn’t let go until the end. I would love to see more from these characters, including some of the minor ones, and can easily recommend “Love Set in Stone.”

A Peril in the Bayou

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

I read and loved Peril in Ectoplasm and was excited to see a new story. It was nice to see familiar faces from before, but it’s unnecessary to have read the first book first. Clover is the assistant to the famous psychic medium, Daphne. They travel with two friends to meet with a New Orleans Spiritualist, Mother Leafy. Upon arrival, they find out they need to take a tour of the Bayou before she will see them. Clover’s and Daphne’s relationship deepens in this story as they traverse the swamp and its mystical qualities. The two men that accompany them are so different but very loyal to Daphne. The group is unaware of the evil intentions of Mother Leafy’s rival and that makes for some exciting twists. Lush 1920 settings drew me deeper into their journey. An exciting paranormal adventure I can easily recommend.

Merciless Mayhem

by Sue Coletta

Merciless Mayhem is the eighth book in the Mayhem Series. I have read the first and sixth books and could jump right into this story with no confusion or issues. There are enough references to understand what is going on. Shawnee and Mayhem are fighting a powerful company named Killzme, which is involved in illegal animal trafficking. This corporation has set its sights on capturing Shawnee, which leads to an explosive opening to the story. Not only are their lives at stake, but the animals captured are also at risk of survival. What I love about these stories is that justice is fought for innocent ones or animals, along with Native American culture and relationships between the warriors and families. Shawnee’s dedication to learning and working with Mayhem to become a stronger warrior is fascinating. But it’s her love for her grandfather that really touches the heart. The ravens are a favorite character of mine, and the bad feelings between Shawnee and Poe add to the entertainment. Going undercover and Shawnee walking in heels was a lot of fun, but saving the orcas and dolphins tugged at my heart. There was an in-depth explanation of what capturing these intelligent creatures does to them. There are some brutal and descriptive battles that aren’t for the faint of heart, but I couldn’t help rooting for the justice behind it. Another great addition to the Mayhem Series and I will continue reading them to catch up and look forward to more stories to come.

Goodbye Old Paint (The Hat Book 7)

by C. S. Boyack

Lizzie and the Hat are back and trying to recover after disastrous flooding. Her car is barely functional, and funds are very limited as she waits for her disaster aid to come. It’s even been hard to book the band to play out. That’s when a government agency shows up needing her unusual skills to help with a gremlin infestation. They make an offer to excuse student loans. This takes Lizzie down a fun path that brings back some familiar characters from past books. I am a fan of The Hat Series and love Mr. Boyack’s humor. This book took that humor up a notch. There were a few laugh-out-loud moments, but I won’t go into detail and spoil them. I enjoyed an upgrade Lizzie received and I always appreciate the Hat’s snarky comments and how he helps. Another great Hat Book I can easily recommend.

Courting Miss Emma

By Linda Broday

“Courting Miss Emma” continues the story of the Taggart sisters. Being the daughters of the hangman, they were forced out of town after their house was burned down. They took with them the town’s orphans and found solace in an abandoned mission, along with three nuns. The first of the series focused on the older sister, Maura, and now it’s Emma’s story. Emma’s life revolves around the children, and she’s made peace with being alone—and not being lucky like Maura. However, a good-looking new neighbor, Stone, moves in. Emma and Stone immediately clash over the kids wandering onto his property to see the camels. There is little time to decide what they think of each other when riders come in and tell them their land is no longer theirs. They are expected to leave. No matter what is or isn’t between Emma and Stone, they must join to fight off attackers who will do whatever it takes to claim what isn’t theirs. I love Emma’s character; she is very strong and loving toward the ones she loves even after how she and her sister have been unfairly treated. Stone is an ex-soldier who carries a heavy past with him and a determination not to marry or have kids. It was wonderful to see all the familiar characters from the first book, especially the children, and to meet the new ones introduced. The plot was layered with not only romance and the threat of losing their home but plenty of heart-racing action and unexpected twists. Mixed in is some fun humor, including Emma imagining what her tombstone would say in different situations. The setting was rich and detailed, so I could easily imagine being in Texas in the late 1800s. A fantastic follow-up to the first book and I can’t wait for the story to continue. Although it’s unnecessary to read the first book because there was enough information added to understand the story, I’m glad I read “Maura” first. I can highly recommend this.

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! Click on a book title and add to your reading list 🙂 D. L. Finn

August Book Reviews! @supermegawoman @FizaPathan @teagangeneviene @SelmaWrites #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #whattoread #bookreviews

You Can Take The Girl From The Prairie: Stories about growing up on the Canadian prairies

By Darlene Foster

In The Shadow of Rainbows

By Selma Martin

“In The Shadow of Rainbows,” is Ms. Martin’s debut poetry book that I thoroughly enjoyed. There is a nice blend of nature with the emotional side of poems. The words flowed through the pages with vivid images and insights. I enjoyed them all but here are a few lines and poems that caught my eye: “nurtured under the illimitable/distant sun, fulfilling stories/among the starlight…”—Give Back, “Light illuminates/all who wander/in darkness and delusion…”—Let Go. “When death comes/I want to be led into eternity/curious, full of joy…”—When Death Comes, “The green outside is winking at me/it arose merely moments ago,/like a well-rested child rising from sleep,…”—Nature’s Tender Doings, and “I almost died of exuberance/snorkeling around the unspoiled/coral reef/ when, in the dull hum of silence…”—I Almost Died. A wonderful collection to savor more than once that I can easily recommend for poetry lovers.

Murder at the Bijou: Three Ingredients I

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

Ms. Geneviene wrote “Murder at the Bijou” as a part of her weekly blog serial story. This is one I missed, so I was eager to read it. Readers contributed three words each week or chapter. At the end of some chapters, or installments, a list of ingredients that made me hungry was included. Pip is sent to live with her grandma to learn how to cook, but she ends up dealing with a murder mystery and criminals. I love it was set in the twenties and Pip considers herself a flapper or a modern woman. A quick read that includes gangsters and a budding love story that took a sharp turn. Besides Pip, Granny, a parrot, and a rabbit were also my favorites. This unique cozy mystery is great to snuggle up with in any season.

Nirmala: The Mud Blossom

By Fiza Pathan

“Nirmala” is a painful and sometimes inspiring read that was hard to put down. Nirmala was born to a family that didn’t want a female child, so they threw her away. She was found, though, and returned to her family. Growing up she suffered through not only staggering poverty but beatings and abuse which are graphicly described. She could go to school only to teach her younger brothers and advance them. In school, she was shunned because of her lack of hygiene, but she also was a top student. Her dream was to be a doctor. I couldn’t help but root for a girl in a society that wasn’t welcoming. She had a deep strength that shined through, even in the darkest of situations until the very end. Although she didn’t get to pursue her dream, a marriage was arranged, and it seemed to be a place of peace for her—until it wasn’t. The heart-wrenching part was this is the stark reality for some women in Mumbai. A beautiful young girl who was gifted with intelligence being constantly told she was trash. There is no happy ending, but it fits her situation. A well-written story I can easily recommend that shines a light on how unfairly some women are still treated in our world.

More than Coffee: Memories in Verse and Prose

By Lauren Scott

“More than Coffee” is a thought-provoking collection of Ms. Scott’s memories mixed with beautiful poetry. Her stories tell of past events, such as how her parents met and her own beginning with her husband. I could easily relate to spiders always finding her. The poetry in between the prose added extra insight and layers to this great read. I read it in one sitting, but it would be good to savor each part with a cup of coffee or, in my case, tea. I enjoyed all the stories and the positive spin they had, no matter where the emotions went. There were glimpses into relationships between people, ventures into nature, and childhood. I can’t pick a favorite narrative, but I can share some of the many poems that caught my eye. “With childlike fascination,/I leaned against the door frame/watching her apply a little/powder to her nose, a touch of red to her lip./No more, no less…”—Red Lipstick, “Gazing high beyond their treetops/Where birds build family dwellings,/Dreams begin to bloom, worries lessen…”—Forever Steady, “Harmony lives in each flow of a breeze/In each gentle embrace of evergreens/The clear blue is our enchanting shield…”—Her Offerings, and “It’s freedom, fun, and magical/as tires hum on the road/A wave of a hand/befits the two-wheel code…”—Riding with the Wind. This is an inspiring collection I can easily recommend!

Watch for an exciting announcement from Story Empire this week and a special post from me on Wednesday!

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! D. L. Finn

2023 Spring Edition of “Books That Changed Me!” @AnnalisaCrawf @gmplano @supermegawoman #topreading #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #readersoffacebook

Welcome spring! I am ready to enjoy the return of the birds, flowers, and the landscape bursting with life. It’s my favorite time of year, along with fall. We had quite a winter here. Some epic and sometimes overwhelming storms finally ended our three-year drought—at least in our area.

Time to enjoy nice spring hikes along the river, take Harley rides, and read some great books! Stories and poetry can touch us in many different ways and change us. You have already seen these books reviewed here on my blog. Since I have read some fantastic books lately, more of those will be making their way here in other seasons. Today these are the book revisiting with their blurbs as some of my top reads.

Redemption: A Father’s Fatal Decision

By Gwendolyn M. Plano

Family secrets can be deadly. When Lisa visits her parents one fateful Saturday morning, she hugs her father and takes her suitcase to her childhood bedroom. The doorbell rings, and one minute later her father lies dead on the floor—three bullets to the chest. The death of Eric Holmes sends shockwaves throughout the quiet neighborhood. But for the Holmes family, it is devastating.
In this fast-paced psychological thriller, Lisa and her brother embark on a quest to solve the mystery of their father’s murder. The journey takes them into a secret world where nothing is as it seems. Once the puzzle pieces begin to coalesce, they realize that their father had multiple lives. As the facts unravel, the siblings discover the true meaning of Redemption.

The Clock in My Mother’s House and other stories

By Annalisa Crawford

Life can change in an instant, but that’s not always a bad thing.

A hotel explodes leaving staff and guests in peril; a woman retrieves an old clock from the attic with disturbing consequences; one man leaves heart break behind him, and another arrives to bring adventure.

In this haunting collection, Annalisa Crawford creates characters who will charm, captivate, and intrigue you.

Annalisa’s stories have featured in Fairlight Shorts, Fictive Dream, and Reflex Fiction; and have been short- and longlisted for the Commonwealth Short Story Prize, the Bath Short Story Award, Globe Soup, and more.

The Bubble Reputation

By Alex Craigie

If you want to destroy someone’s reputation, social media provides the perfect tool.

Emmie Hobson, children’s author and TV presenter, is riding high on a wave of popularity when an unscrupulous newspaper editor, desperate for a scoop, brings Emmie’s world crashing down.

Social media picks up the baton and a terrifying backlash of hate and abuse is unleashed. Threats are made and there are those, inflamed by the rhetoric, prepared to take the law into their own hands.

For the young at heart and middle grade readers:

Amanda in France: Fire in the Cathedral (An Amanda Travels Adventure Book 9)

by Darlene Foster

Amanda explores the exciting streets of Paris, the fabulous Palace of Versailles and the gardens of the painter Claude Monet, while being drawn into the mystery surrounding the destructive fire of Notre Dame cathedral.

Amanda is in love! With Paris – the city of love. She’s in awe of the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral. While there, she gets to work as a volunteer and stay in a famous book store, along with her bestie, Leah, and Leah’s eccentric Aunt Jenny. A dream come true for a book lover like Amanda.

Except, while she’s at the Paris Opera House there is a bomb threat. Then the lights go out during their visit to the Louvre. Worst of all, a devastating fire blazes in Notre Dame. Why does a mysterious man, who claims to be a busker, writer and artist, show up every time something bad happens?

Join Amanda as she explores the exciting streets of Paris, the fabulous Palace of Versailles and the gardens of the painter Claude Monet, all the time looking for clues as to who would want to destroy such a beautiful, historic cathedral.

Embrace your inner child by reading a great book—D. L. Finn

February Book Reviews Part 2! @supermegawoman @RichardDockett1 @LBroday @JoanHallWrites #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #whattoread

Amanda in France: Fire in the Cathedral (An Amanda Travels Adventure Book 9)

by Darlene Foster

“Amanda in France” is an exciting book for middle-grade or youthful adult readers—like me. Amanda gets the opportunity to go to France with her best friend and aunt and stay at a bookstore where she works part-time. When they explore the city, I feel like I’m with them and seeing all the places I’ve dreamed of exploring someday. Amanda gets free tickets to see a musical, they end up in a bomb scare, and a man she keeps seeing is there. I felt her sadness as the fire at Notre Dame burned, and her need to help save the art. Amanda’s best friend has been hanging around someone whom she wondered about his motives and those after him. There is not only history and exquisite details but a mystery to be solved. I thoroughly enjoyed this adventure with Amanda and am ready to explore more with her.

Menagerie

By Joan Hall

“Menagerie” is a wonderful collection of short stories linked together with small-town living. Each story is unique, and several genres and time periods are included. They are beautifully written with attention to detail and vivid descriptions that captured my imagination. It’s hard to pick the ones I liked the best, but “Lone Wolf” immediately won my heart. Jake is trying to get over a painful breakup and camps in the mountains he loves every chance he gets. He runs across a lone wolf, and they watch each other from a distance. There was a potential for healing and a look at a relationship between man and a wild animal. I fell in love with that wolf and the land’s extraordinary beauty, but it isn’t always safe for wild animals around ranches. “Ghost Bridge,” a doctor, fell victim to a local legend in 1889. It is said he haunts a bridge now. Kate moves to an isolated house that overlooks this bridge. I admired the peace she found there but also something else. I enjoy exploring local legends in stories and how they affect the living. “Friends” was a mystery and a reconnection to the past. Cassie is a detective in a small town, and her ex-partner comes to help solve a cold case. It was fun guessing whodunit, along with her working with her partner, Nick. These are thirteen stories that I can highly recommend!

Life and Other Dreams: Sci-Fi and Psychological Thriller

By Richard Dee

“Life and Other Dreams” is a unique story that questions what reality is for Rick/Dan. Rick is married to Cath, a character I dislike, and works a job he finds uninteresting. At night though, he has vivid dreams as Dan, six hundred years in the future, exploring another planet with his wife, Vanessa. Sleep becomes hard for him, and his wife, Cath, pushes him to get help. He ends up on experimental drugs that help him sleep and make his dreams more lucid. Rick’s wife becomes jealous of his dreams and decides he is cheating on her and leaves. I enjoyed the dream life in the future but disliked Rick’s current timeline and his marriage to Cath, or why he was even with her. He is likable in both realities, though, and you can’t help but root for him. This story doesn’t answer questions and offers more intriguing ones with the ending. I have a few theories and will read the next book to see where this goes and if Cath can redeem herself—or is even real. A fun read for sci-fi fans or those who enjoy a good thought-provoking read.

Winning Maura’s Heart

By Linda Broday

In 1876, sisters Maura and Emma were the daughters of a hangman in San Antonio. The sisters cared for the town’s yellow fever victims until they weren’t needed. The townspeople decided it was time for the hangman’s daughters to leave. With no house to return to, Maura sets out to find a place for the sisters and the recently orphaned children. She travels to an abandoned mission and discovers three nuns who would welcome them and the children. The Calhoun brothers, Jonas and Cutter, are trying to escape the outlaw gang Jonas has been in. Although twins, the brothers are on different sides of the law. Jonas and Cutter are pursued, and, in a shootout, both are shot. The story follows one unknown brother who finds a place to hide by the mission. Once the children and sisters get settled into the mission, Maura finds this man, takes him in, and doctors him, not knowing who he is. I quickly fell in love with Maura’s character. She was a strong, compassionate woman with a moral compass that guided her actions. Her love for her sister and those children was heartwarming, which nicely balanced how cruel the townspeople were to them. I found it intriguing not to know the brother’s name until the very end and enjoyed getting to know Uncle Max. As Maura and her patient grow close, a family and healing emerge at the mission, but the outlaw gang is a danger to them all. This fast-paced story has a couple of twists that make it hard to put down. I highly recommend “Winning Maura’s Heart” to all who love a good western romance.

I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews here! If I don’t like the book, I won’t finish it. It wouldn’t be fair to leave a review for an unfinished story, and life is too short not to enjoy my reading journey!

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! D. L. Finn