Tag: historicalfiction

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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)

October Book Reviews! #MaeClair #JeanLee #DawnPisturino #PatriciaFurstenburg #LauraLyndhurst #PTLPerrin #mustread #writingcommunity

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

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The Diamond Jack

By Mae Clair

Widow, Leah, is starting over in a new town as the schoolteacher and living with her brother and sister-in-law. On an outing to collect items for a lesson, she loses her ride back to town. Luckily, she runs into a young man, Shey, and a companion. He comes to her rescue not only then but again in town. Although she finds herself attracted to him, she worries about his age and reputation. Plus, that part of her life is over after a marriage of convenience. I liked the interaction between Shey and Leah, even against her better judgment. But as her sister-in-law was busy matchmaking for Leah with the town’s most eligible bachelors, Monk Sunday was lurking in the background, including him, trying to take advantage of her. The cruel man also had another reason for being there that had to do with Shey’s family. The growth of Shey was my favorite part of the story. Although the son of the affluent Lafferty family, he was known for his womanizing tendencies. Still, there was so much more to him than that label. The Old West settings drew me in, along with well-flawed characters, and I read this in two sittings only because I needed to sleep. I can easily recommend this well-written western romance.

Fallen Princeborn: Chosen

By Jean Lee

“Fallen Princeborn: Chosen,” a YA fantasy, is the second book in the series. Charlotte, the human, and the Princeborn, Liam, a magical being, were wonderfully flawed and interesting characters. The story began with Charlotte helping to get an injured Liam to safety. This led to an underwater world. There were many characters to get acquainted with, including magical bears and wolves, which became some of my favorites; however, the underwater ones were also intriguing, especially Captain. Fast-paced from the first page, it never let up. They were escaping and battling Orna, who appears to be impossible to kill. Plus, some humor balanced the painful depth and family history that Charlotte and Liam had. Even though I wished I had read book one and could have stopped reading to do so, the story had already hooked me. I will go back now and read the first book, and I am also hoping there is more to come. I can easily recommend this, but suggest you begin with “Fallen Princeborn: Stolen.”

When Secrets Bloom: Some secrets heal. Others kill. (Blood of Kings, Heart of Shadows) 

by Patricia Furstenberg

“When Secrets Bloom” is a beautifully written historical fiction set in 1463 Transylvania. It follows two characters that I couldn’t help but root for, Kate the healer and Moise the printer’s apprentice. Kate is in a loveless marriage that has allowed her to keep her family home. She spends her time putting herbs together and healing the locals. The town physician isn’t happy with her results over his. Moise buries himself in books and his job until he feels responsible for what he believes to be a curse on one of his friends. Both are great characters with different paths, yet they share the same town. Poetic writing balanced the author’s attention to detail and knowledge of this history. But it was the story and the well-being of Kate and Moise that kept me reading late into the night. There were several twists, and although some things were resolved, I want to know what happens next. I look forward to the next book in the series and can easily recommend this.

The Mystery of the Pink Poodle

By Dawn Pisturino

Alina has everything a girl could want except the feeling of being loved by her divorced movie star mother and famous writer father. Her father hauls her off to a small living ghost town in Arizona, and finds she loves it, makes friends, and unravels a mystery. While Alina’s dad writes, she bonds with the woman who runs the inn and her daughters, but upstairs is the reclusive owner, who never leaves her room. Intrigued by the ex-movie star approaching their centennial, she sets out to meet her. What she finds is an old woman who can’t remember her past with a protective caretaker. The frail woman keeps asking for the pink poodle. Determined to help, Alina looks for answers to find the truth. I loved the relationship she developed with the innkeeper and her daughters and how they looked out for each other, something Alina never had. The setting and town were vivid and brought this story to life. It reminded me of the Nancy Drew mysteries I used to read. Even though the book is for middle-grade readers, I was entertained as an adult. I can easily recommend this.

You Know What You Did

By Laura Lyndhurst

Famous author Amanda has it all. With two lovely children, a devoted husband, a perfect home, and a successful career, things were great until her thirteenth book. Superstitious, she considers it bad luck. Then, every part of her life starts to unravel. Circumstances lead her to suspect that someone is targeting her, although she has no understanding of the motive. Told through two POV, it gives an insight into Amanda’s life being exposed and the second POV’s determination to make that happen. It wasn’t hard to sympathize with Amanda immediately, but with some unexpected twists, I could understand both sides of the story. Amanda was more on the self-absorbed side, while I loved going into the world of the other author or POV. A compelling read that had me reading late into the night to see what happens next. Luckily, the story continues with book two, and I look forward to seeing what is in store for both women. I can easily recommend “You Know What You Did.”

Dominion (Dragon Guild Book 3)

By P.T.L. Perrin

I have been eager to read the last book in the Dragon Guild. Gabri and Elio have been training other riders to prepare for the final battle against Ozul and Katzir. I love their developing relationships and the bonding of people, dragons, and plants, but little Alex and Tito shine among some of my already favorite characters. There is a lot of character development as more people are added, and families are together. The tension is always there, knowing something is coming, which makes it hard to put down. This setting, like always, is well depicted, giving life. Love, friendship, loyalty, and determination confront the pure cruelty of power. The ending completed an incredible tale. Although you could read this book and not be lost, I suggest you start with the first book and not miss anything. I highly recommend “Dominion” and the entire Dragon Guild series.

This is a day early because we are having a visitor tomorrow, you don’t want to miss! Next week is the tenth Creative Perspective Challenge. Only two more to go after that!

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

Books That Changed Me: 2025 Fall Edition! #JanSikes #NoelleAGranger #PTLPerrin #DawnPasturino#writingcommunity #mustreads

Welcome to the Books That Changed Me: 2025 Fall Edition! You’ve seen these books before with my review, but today I’m bringing them back with their blurb because good reads deserve attention. This time was hard to pick, I’ve been reading a great group of books that linger.

So, grab a cup of pumpkin latte, coffee, or tea with a nice slice of apple pie and settle down in the changing colors and read a great book this fall.

Daniel Boone and Me

By Noelle A Granger

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When the two Corey children are orphaned in an Indian attack on the frontier of Kentucky, Daniel Boone tracks their escape through the woods and brings them to his home in Fort Boonesborough. There they will live with him, his wife Rebecca, and their eight children in their crowded cabin, where she and her brother Thatch learn much about Colonel Boone and why he is regarded as one of the greatest frontier explorers and hunters. Eliza is soon immersed in the hard life of a frontier woman – doing the many household chores, working gardens and crops, foraging for food in the woods, and hunting. After surviving a pivotal historic event in the Revolutionary War – the siege of Boonesborough, Eliza’s own story is integrated into the remainder of Daniel Boone’s life, his constant uprooting of his family to unexplored areas, his failed business ventures, and his growing fame.
This is a tale of life’s challenges in frontier Kentucky, Eliza’s grit and determination in meeting them, and above all, high adventure. It offers a deep look into the long and amazing life of Daniel Boone through the eyes of a young girl.

A Bold Bargain (The Bargainer Series Book 3) 

by Jan Sikes

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A Young Man With the Heart of a Wolf

Eighteen-year-old Jack Barlow Blaine is driven by unwavering compassion for all, and a thirst for knowledge. Born into poverty and haunted by a violent past, he’s determined to escape his history by helping others—whether human or animal, no matter the cost.

But when Jack discovers an elderly woman in crisis, he faces a choice that challenges everything he thinks he knows about living and dying. The bargain she offers promises a better future, if the price isn’t higher than he’s capable of paying.

As Jack grapples with his decision, he must summon the courage to honor their bargain if he accepts her offer.
How far is he willing to go to keep his word?

The greatest acts of kindness are the ones that demand the most from us—and every decision can unlock destiny’s doors.

Sanctum: Dragon Guild Book 1

By P.T.L. Perrin

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Two worlds separated by time and space, a frantic search, a powerful enemy, and a baby dragon… At sixteen, Gabri’s life is complicated.

When a nightmarish vision rips Gabri O’Connell from her home and family, she wakes up powerless in a freezing tower on a hostile planet.

Saved by a dragon and brought to Sanctum inside the planet, her rescuers don’t want her there.

Will a baby dragon be the key to her survival? Will Gabri ever see her family again?

Get your copy of SANCTUM today.
Literary Titan Book Award Winner

TEEN TO ADULT FANTASY ADVENTURE

Ancient Voices: Poems About Ancient Egypt

By Dawn Pisturino

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The Ancient Egyptians loved life and celebrated it with joy. Their deepest desire was to live an honorable life and achieve immortality in the afterlife, where they could exist in perfect harmony with the cosmic order and never experience pain, suffering, and hardship again. These original poems by Dawn Pisturino reflect the hopes and dreams of people who were not much different from us. They worked, loved, raised families, worshipped their gods, honored the dead, enjoyed festivals and celebrations, imbibed beer and wine, danced, sang, and played, aspired to better themselves, and appreciated the beauty and wonder of nature. Take a journey back in time to explore the minds and hearts of the Ancient Egyptians

NOTE: Two days until Miracles & Ghosts Past release, and John Howell is kicking off the blog tour on Wednesday. So there will be no Tuesday post tomorrow, but I will be posting the links here for the tour stops.

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

Sisters on Tour Final Stop! #ABoldBargain #CadesQuest #JanSikes #LindaBroday #writingcommunity #newrelease #mustread

sisters on tour!

I’m thrilled to be the final stop on the Sisters on Tour! Both are favorite authors, so to have both here today is an extra treat 🙂 They have a special announcement following their interview.

My reviews for both five-star stories are here: LINK

We are deeply grateful to you, Denise, for offering to let us wrap up this tour on your wonderful blog site!

When we decided to launch our new books together on the same day, Linda and I wanted to make it something special. It feels like we are making publishing history, and perhaps we are.

For this blog tour, we’ve chosen questions and answers designed to give the readers a deeper look into who we are, our background, and how we ended up where we are today, launching books together.

Question: What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters of the opposite sex?

Jan:  I think the hardest part about writing characters of the opposite sex is getting the dialogue right. Men talk and express emotions much differently than women. I think women writers who have raised sons have a deeper insight into this. Also, men tend to get angry much quicker than women. I love writing male characters who are both rugged, yet sensitive. However, I think they only exist in fiction. (Sorry guys. No offense)

Linda: Men react differently from women when under stress or fear and it’s not always easy to figure out what they should be doing. My male writer friend is very helpful whenever I’m in doubt. Also, men show emotion very differently as well. I can’t claim that I always get that right. And, as Jan said, the dialogue. Men tend to speak in short, choppy sentences and they don’t use “ly” words.

Question: How do you select names for your characters?

Jan: I almost giggled when I read this question. I honestly can’t say I spend a lot of time selecting names for characters, at least the main characters. They tell me. I know that sounds crazy, but it’s true. However, when I wrote Ghostly Interference, I struggled with a name for the main character. Everything I came up with didn’t fit. So, Linda suggested I interview the character and ask him. But it was his mother whom I wound up interviewing. I know that sounds crazy as this entire conversation took place in my head, but it happened. She told me her backstory. Once, when she was still in high school, she met Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones and vowed if she ever had a son, she’d name him Jag. Boom! Not only did I get the character’s name but also another story (hers) that I wrote as a short story for an anthology. But if I do have to search for names for secondary characters, I have some favorite internet sites I use. It helps to put a year in the search bar for popular names in that time period. One thing I try to avoid is having character names that sound too much alike or names that all start with the same letter. I once read a story with characters named J.J. and Jay. That was super confusing.

Linda: I keep a list of names that I’m always adding to, and if none of those fit my character, I turn to the internet. Also, I’ve found names in cemeteries. Once I ran across the name Texanna on an old tombstone, and I used that in a novella. They’re a great place to look. And as Jan said, often a name will just pop into your head. Writing historicals, I need to know their nationality, and the name has to fit where they originated from. You can’t have an Alistair from Sweden. One of my favorite parts is naming characters. My hardest thing is not repeating. I love the name Luke, and I used it in four different books!! As the hero, no less. Crazy.

Question:  What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

Jan: This one made me stop and think. What would I give up? I’ve already given up time, money, ego, and fear of rejection. What’s really left? I’m not a big TV watcher, so that’s nothing I’d miss. I mostly read for entertainment, and I’m definitely not ever giving that up. Besides, as Linda mentioned at a previous stop, reading enhances writing. So, really, I don’t have an answer to this question.

Linda: I really love coffee but I would give it up if I could be a better writer. That’s how much I yearn to turn unique phrases and write vivid descriptions. I read books by bestselling authors and feel so inadequate next to them. I really admire good writing. A long time ago, a writer told me never to compare myself to other authors. Everyone has different viewpoints and skills. She said, “Someone is always going to write better, and you will always better than some. So, I try not to compare.

Question:  Does your family support your career as a writer?

Jan: For me, the answer is yes and no. They seem proud when I win book awards, and they celebrated with champagne when I got my first publishing contract. But I don’t think any of them have actually read my books. My oldest daughter has read some, but not the younger one. It’s almost as if she has a mental block against it – like Mom couldn’t possibly be good enough to write a compelling story. Still, I always give them both an autographed copy of every new book. I envy writers who have family involvement in their writing.

Linda: Not much and I’ve been a published writer for 25 years. My oldest daughter is good about reading each new book, but she’s the only one. I’ve spoken to my writing friends about this subject, and they tell me their families don’t read their books either. My family, including my oldest, never asks what I’m writing or even seems curious, and I don’t know why that is.

both books

PURCHASE LINKS:

CADE’S QUEST: https://www.amazon.com/Cades-Quest-Western-Romance-McIntyres-ebook/dp/B0FD7X4H5D/

 

A BOLD BARGAIN: https://www.amazon.com/Bold-Bargain-Bargainer-Book-ebook/dp/B0FD7VSY68/

 

Linda Broday bio box

LINDA BRODAY SOCIAL MEDIA:

WEBSITE:  https://www.lindabroday.com

FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/lindabrodayauthor

BLUESKY:  https://bsky.app/profile/lindabroday.bsky.social

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Linda-Broday/author/B001JRXWB2?ccs_id=4a2c44df-2076-43cd-8bf8-f15b530ea92f

 

Jan Sikes Bio Box

JAN SIKES SOCIAL MEDIA:

WEBSITE:  https://www.jansikes.com

FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/authorjansikesbooks

TWITTER:  HTTPS://WWW.TWITTER.COM/JANSIKES3

BLUESKY:  https://bsky.app/profile/jksikes-author.bsky.social

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jan-Sikes/author/B00CS9K8DK?ccs_id=8185cb63-9ad0-4d7b-85ad-c2d64ce37812

 

 

September Book Reviews! #PTLPerrin #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #lindabroday #jansikes #deborahjay #laurenscott #writingcommunity #bookreviews #whattoread

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

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Aerie: Dragon Guild Book Two

By P.T.L. Perrin

The story continues for Gabri, Eilo, and their dragons. They are still fighting the Shadow, while back home, Gabri’s family continues to search for her. The point of view switches between the two worlds, showing the love of family and a newly created family. A fight is coming, and the Dragon Guild is preparing for it by recruiting, scouting, and training. I love the developing relationship between Eilo and Gabri, but I think my favorite parts are the dragons and their riders, along with Ting. The pull between Gabri’s past and Donny, as well as her current life and Eilo, adds another layer that had me rooting for her to make the right decision. The settings bring this world both beauty and the ugly side of it to life. A hard story to put down, as I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and can highly recommend “Aerie.”

The Dance of Discord: A Short Story: Gilded Age Intrigue

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

A quick but exciting read that takes the readers to 1900s Washington, DC. Secret Service agent Milo Quick and his sidekick Duchess Felina Gattone skillfully maneuver the world of political intrigue. Told through the Duchess’s perspective, there is never a dull moment. I knew there would be a twist coming and tried more than once to guess what it was, but in the end, I was completely surprised. The settings, language, and characters pulled me deep into the story. I loved all the international implications of learning who to trust. A fast-paced story that was hard to put down. I hope there is more to come featuring Milo and the Duchess!

Cade’s Quest: (Book 1 Sweet Western Romance)

By Linda Broday

Cade’s family was torn apart after outlaws killed his parents. His siblings were separated and sent to live with new families. Now, as an adult, he has returned home looking for his family and to reunite with them, including his older brother, who he had been told was riding with a gang. On his quest, Cade is attacked and ends up being treated by a local doctor. It’s here he finds his sister, Summer, but loses his freedom when the out-of-control sheriff decides he is a criminal too. Forced to flee, he finds the perfect hideout and a young woman and child who are also hiding out. Although townspeople remember him and his family and want to help him, the sheriff won’t give up and pursues him at any cost. I love the relationship that develops between him and Rain and her nephew.  They are both searching for their place in the world, with someone determined to end that quest. Cade is loyal and complex, and Summer and Rain are strong, determined women. The history and setting pulled me right into their world. Although questions were answered, some weren’t. I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens next to this family. I can highly recommend “Cade’s Quest!”

A Bold Bargain (The Bargainer Series Book 3) 

by Jan Sikes

“A Bold Bargain” is the third book in the Bargainer Series. I loved the first two books and was eager to read this one. Jack, who was a minor character in book two, had a tough childhood. Now grown up, he is working to protect animals, but his dream is to go to college. His past did not break him but made him into a kind, caring man whose first instinct is to rescue those who need help, whether a human or an animal. His first save is a dog drowning in the river, which ends up staying with Jack. Named Wolf after his mixed breed, this character becomes one of my favorites. What Wolf brought home touched my heart. When Jack finds an older woman who needs his help, he doesn’t hesitate. He finds not only her dog but also a friend. Their developing relationship is not only sweet, but what she offers him becomes the bargain. Although being the person he was without the bargain, he would have helped out. In this mix were a gold miner and his granddaughter, who added another layer that I fully enjoyed. The human connections and setting were amazing, but there was a dark side too, that included dangerous mink trappers, illness, and an abusive ex in the mix. Another great addition to the series that might be my favorite one. I can highly recommend this!

The Prince’s Man (The Five Kingdoms #1)

By Deborah Jay

“The Prince’s Man” is an exciting fantasy with settings and characters that pulled me right into it. It starts with a young girl, Risada, who watches her parents being brutally killed as she protects her little brother. Years later, this grown-up Lady Risada, the court’s secret assassin, teams up with Rustam, the court seducer and clandestine spy, to save their kingdom from a hostile takeover. While magic has been banned and feared in their realm, they rescue a tortured elf, Elwaes, from a cruel doctor. They have to survive the trek through the mountains with a sick elf to seek crucial support on the other side. The journey forces them to deal with magical beings, including trolls, a water seducer, and a werecat. Although there is an attraction between Risada and Rustam, there is also a lack of trust and borderline hatred from Risada. Their relationship is fascinating as it progresses, but I love how Rustam and the elf, Elwaes connect. A story I found hard to put down, and I look forward to seeing what happens next in the Five Kingdoms Series. I can highly recommend this!

King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry

By Lauren Scott

“King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry” is a beautiful tribute that deeply touched my heart. The words brought back memories I had of losing our sweet dog a couple of years back and of remembering the joy she brought us too. Our pets are such a gift, and this collection not only shows that but also offers comfort to all of us who have known the loss of a beloved pet. Here is an example of the depth of emotions: “A dog barks in the distance causing me to pause,/it sounds like Copper’s wild imagination longing for one more moment”—One More Moment. I can highly recommend this for all those who have loved and lost a pet family member.

NOTE: Don’t miss Thursday’s post from Jan and Linda 🙂 Next week is the 9th Creative Perspective Challenge!

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

August Book Reviews! #ColleenLConnelly #LindaBroday #NAGranger #DanAntion #whattoread #bookreviews #writingcommunity

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

I Have a Story

By Colleen L. Donnelly

This is a unique love story and mystery set in the WWII era. Jim is a popular crime writer who is going to an interview about a war criminal. While he travels to do this, his beloved grandfather urges him to explore his story. It’s in this town that he not only finds his grandfather’s peninsula, but he also meets the most unusual and endearing woman, Chastity. Investigating his grandfather’s history, Jim finds himself in a murder mystery while planning Chastity’s wedding with dangerous people in the shadows. In the middle of this, he finds his own story and perhaps his inner hero while still pursuing what’s behind the murder. A fun read with interesting characters like Chastity, who has a ladder to climb into her home, his high-strung editor, and his quirky grandfather. One that kept me guessing until the end about how it would all turn out. A book I can easily recommend!

Love’s First Light: The Women of Black Hawk Canyon Book #1

By Linda Broday

Young Texas woman, Rachael, has lost everything and everyone when a neighbor rancher, Heath, finds her unconscious. He and his sister take Rachael in as she heals, but Rachael is determined to go back and rebuild her family home. Heath offers to marry her, but she doesn’t want anyone’s pity. Instead, people come together and help her get back home. The problem is the secrets she holds inside, plus someone is looking for something on her property, which may mean her harm. Heath and his overbearing sister take it upon themselves to look after her, even if she doesn’t want any help. I loved the relationships that Rachael developed after being kept away from society by her father. The unexpected find by her family’s graves was a surprise and melted my heart. A heartwarming Christian western that emphasizes not only looking after your neighbor but finding love. I can easily recommend “Love’s First Light.”

A Novelist’s Guide to Pittsburgh: An illustrated guide to the city in which all my books are set

By Dan Antion

A quick read but a fact-filled guide to Pittsburgh that attracted my attention from the first page to the last. Not only did I get a tour of a city I wasn’t familiar with, but it highlighted how this city fit into Mr. Antion’s stories. Unaware of the three rivers and numerous bridges, I was most surprised by the stairs. It would be fantastic to bring this with me on a visit to the city, but it’s also enjoyable to read about always interesting settings in books. A place brought to life that I fully appreciated, and a book I can easily recommend!

Daniel Boone and Me

By Noelle A Granger

Eliza was a young girl when her parents were killed in an Indian attack. She took charge of her little brother, Thatch, and they set out to find the fort. Along the way, Daniel Boone finds the children and takes them into his large family. The story is told through Eliza’s eyes as she works hard to help the family and make sure her brother is okay. The history woven into the story was fascinating and made me appreciate how difficult life was. Seeing this frontier world through a child’s eyes pulled me right into the story on the first page. The attention to detail, like hunting, housing, and being alert to danger, made it clear how tough it was to survive. A well-written historical tale captivated me, making it impossible to put down as I wanted to know what would happen next. I highly recommend “Daniel Boone and Me!”

UPDATES and NOTES

  • Looking for blog hosts! I have eight spots left for my Miracles & Ghost Past Blog Tour. I spread this one out; it starts in September and ends in December. If you’re interested, email me at d.l.finn.author@gmail.com, and I’ll send you the available dates.
  • Next week is the eighth Creative Perspective Challenge!
  • I should have my new internet soon, but in the meantime, I’m finding it hard to use what I have. I spend a lot of time watching that circle. So I apologize for not sharing and visiting like I want to, but I swear this DSL gets slower by the day! From what I’m told, corporate has to approve fixing the problem, and with me leaving soon, I’m not going to worry about it!

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

June Book Reviews! #PatSpencer #CindyGeorgakas #KathleenHarryman #MarinaOsipova #CSBoyack #AudreyDriscoll #whattoread #writingcommunity

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

Oceanside: A Healing Place

By Pat Spencer

“Oceanside” is a short story that tackles a difficult subject, human trafficking. Although not too graphic it was brutally honest. A young girl meets an older man, and she keeps the relationship a secret from her family. He showers her with gifts until the worst thing that can happen does. This is something I think every parent should be talking about with their teens as these types of predators exist whether we want to think about it or not. It is a tough read, but it does offer kind people willing to help. I can easily recommend it

Celebrating Poetry

By Cindy Georgakas 

“Celebrating Poetry” is a beautiful collection that touched my heart and inspired me. Although it is a companion book to “Re-Create and Celebrate” it wasn’t necessarily for me to have read it, but I sure will be now. There are many poems I loved, and more importantly, felt, and I chose a few that I highlighted to share here. “Plans change in mid flight,/like birds who move south for the winter./Keep your vision as you adapt to the elements/and nest in the new beginnings and endings…”—Plans Change, “There’s always been music perhaps,/I just didn’t hear the symphony in the background./There’s always been color, but maybe I was in a dark place and/never looked up to see…”—There’s Always Been Music, “Silence births unspoken words/longing to find a home,/where noise is drowned,/sitting quietly amongst the redwoods…”—Root Like the Redwood, and “I breathe in the morning as it breathes into me./Slowly, savoring the moment between sleep and wakefulness,/lingering in the pause…”—Morning Prayer. This was poetry I connected to in many ways and can easily recommend this for all poetry lovers!

The Other Side of the Looking Glass

By Kathleen Harryman

Kate wakes up in a hospital room unable to remember anything about her past. Soon she learns she’s married to a man she doesn’t feel anything for. Laim her husband is a character I grew to hate completely while feeling for Kate. I liked how it was told through more than one POV which made some of it chilling reading. Some twists completely surprised me, but I don’t want to give anything away. I rooted for Kate and loved her strength in the worst of situations. This was a hard book to put down because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. A great psychological thriller where murder is as easy as ordering a pizza, but with love weaved in there the unexpected happens. A story I can easily recommend.

BEELITZ-HEILSTÄTTEN: Where Ghosts Never Die

By Marina Osipova

A newly married woman’s tour of the hospital where she was born quickly turns into time travel. Marion ended up in Germany in 1918 at Beelitz-Heilstatten. With a bump on her head, she is taken into the nursing program to care mostly for soldiers. She mingles with the people of this time with ease but feels repulsion for one patient for good reason. Her thoughts of what to do with a pillow to that man would have crossed the mind of any person who has seen the outcome in modern times. There is a relationship she develops with a doctor who she is drawn to. The attention to historical details is the jewel of this story and made this a page-turner. The descriptions and setting made this feel very real at times to me. There was a twist that pulled the two times together in a way I didn’t see coming. I can’t say enough about the research that had to be involved in writing this but it certainly held my interest in one of our darkest historical times. A story I can easily recommend.

Run for the Roses (The Hat Book 8) 

by C. S. Boyack

I love the Hat Series and always look forward to diving into this masterfully created world. Lizzie and the Hat mingle with some familiar faces and new ones. Lizzie is worried about paying the rent and bills and needs to work when the headless horseman asks for their help. It seems a witch is terrorizing the horses so she can pick the winning horse at the track. I immediately worried about the horses and hoped they would find the witch soon. As in all the stories, the humor is strong, especially between the Hat and Lizzie. That is a favorite part for me, along with the strong and flawed characters. Another story element to appreciate is how the music is woven in so naturally with the Hat as the manager of them. There’s a nod to a few missing bodies from the past that made me smile. Another great addition to the series that I read during a long plane flight, and it made the time speed by. This can be read as a standalone, but I do recommend going back and reading it from the beginning. It’s worth it!

She Who Comes Forth

By Audrey Driscoll

“She Who Comes Forth” first reminded me of a historical mystery that veered into the paranormal with a big twist. Twenty-one-year-old France is accepted to work at an archaeological dig in Egypt in 1962. She takes clothes, her precious cello, and the emerald ring given to her by her step-grandfather and heads off on an exotic adventure. She handles an older man’s unwanted attention, a jealous wife, and a nuclear physicist who intrigues her. Along the way, she questions her grandfather’s past and things that happen around her that make her question what she believes. A favorite part of this story was the setting and detail of the history. It brought the story to life. One of the gritty directions surprised me the story took, but I still found myself captivated, wanting to know what happened next. This is a story I can easily recommend for those who love paranormal mysteries.

NOTE: Watch for tomorrow’s post and my exciting news 🙂

Embrace your inner child by reading a great book! Next week is the Creative Perspective Challenge. D. L. Finn (Denise)

2025 Spring Edition of Books that Changed Me! #johnwhowell #dwallacepeach #jacquimurray #whattoread #fivestarreads #writingcommunity

Hello!

Welcome to the spring edition of Books That Changed Me! Although it is officially spring now, we just got our winter. Had some snow, just the right amount, not too much or too little. Now, though, I’ve enjoyed the cold weather and I’m ready for the flowers and birds to return.

Spring is the perfect time to curl up with a good book and maybe sit outside to read.  Here are three books with their blurbs, if you haven’t read they’d make great additions to your reading list. Click on the book cover or title for the Amazon link.

In no particular order:

BLURB
The third book in the Eternal Road series. Sam and James are dragged into another strange assignment when a couple of souls on The Eternal Road drop off the radar. Archangel Michael gives them specific orders to resolve the issue and get Billy Ray Chitwood, the national race car champion, and Dale Earnhardt, his guide, back on the task of finding Billy’s Eternal Home.
Finally, meeting up with Billy Ray and Dale, the foursome finds themselves in the future where World War III has devastated the country. The team discovers the cause of the start of the war and vows to mitigate that circumstance and save the world from devastation. They encounter their old nemesis, Lucifer, who has in mind trading preventing the war in exchange for Sam accepting his offer to be his queen.
Since Lucifer’s offer is a non-starter, Sam and James must overcome Lucifer’s interference and work to change the course of history, or humankind is doomed.

“Already the animals starve. Soon the bonemen will follow, the Moss Folk and woodlings, the watermaids and humans. Then the charmed will fade. And all who will roam a dead world are dead things. Until they too vanish for lack of remembering. Still, Weaver, it is not too late.”

In the frost-kissed cottage where the changing seasons are spun, Erith wears the Weaver’s mantle, a title that tests her mortal, halfling magic. As the equinox looms, her first tapestry nears completion—a breathtaking ode to spring. She journeys to the charmed isle of Innishold to release the beauty of nature’s awakening across the land.

But human hunters have defiled the enchanted forest and slaughtered winter’s white wolves. Enraged by the trespass, the Winter King seizes Erith’s tapestry and locks her within his ice-bound palace. Here, where comfort and warmth are mere glamours, she may weave only winter until every mortal village succumbs to starvation, ice, and the gray wraiths haunting the snow.

With humanity’s fate on a perilous edge, Erith must break free of the king’s grasp and unravel a legacy of secrets. In a charmed court where illusions hold sway, allies matter, foremost among them, the Autumn Prince. Immortal and beguiling, he offers a tantalizing future she has only imagined, one she will never possess—unless she claims her extraordinary power to weave life from the brink of death.

In the lyrical fantasy tradition of Margaret Rogerson and Holly Black, D. Wallace Peach spins a spellbinding tale of magic, resilience, and the transformative potency of tales—a tapestry woven with peril and hope set against the frigid backdrop of an eternal winter.

Savage Land is the third trilogy about prehistoric man in the series, Man. Vs. Nature.Written in the spirit of Jean Auel, Savage Land explores how two bands of humans survived one of the worst natural disasters in Earth’s history, when volcanic eruptions darkened the sky, massive tsunamis crossed the ocean in crushing waves, and raging fires burned the land. Each of the tribes considered themselves apex predators. Neither was. That crown belonged to Nature and she was intent on washing the blight of man from her face.

Endangered Species is Book One of the trilogy. Yu’ung and her Neanderthal tribe must align with Fierce and his Tall Ones—an advanced tribe of humans. Even then, survival is not ensured. The story starts in the Altai Mountains of Siberia as they prepare for a cross-continent journey to a new home away from the volcano’s devastation.

Join me in this three-book fictional exploration of Neanderthals. Be ready for a world nothing like what you thought it would be, filled with clever minds, brilliant acts, and innovative solutions to life-ending problems, all based on real events. At the end of this trilogy, you’ll be proud to call Neanderthals family.

Note: If you are subscribed to my newsletter, it came out today. Check your email 🙂

Embrace your inner child by reading a great story! D. L. Finn

 

New Release! Detour on the Eternal Road by John W. Howell #writingcommunity #johnhowell #mustread

I’m thrilled to have John W. Howell here today to celebrate his latest release, “Detour on the Eternal Road.” It’s the third book in a series I’m a big fan of and here’s my review: LINK

I’m excited that you offered to host a stop on the tour to launch my next book, Denise. You have had a busy year and especially with the launch of Sounds in the Silence and at Christmas time Miracles and Ghosts. I have read both and can say they are excellent.  (A huge thank you, John!) I am so grateful to be here and thank you very much. Without any more delay here is the blurb.

Blurb 

Sam and James are dragged into another strange assignment when a couple of souls on The Eternal Road drop off the radar. Archangel Michael gives them specific orders to resolve the issue and get Billy Ray Chitwood, the national race car champion, and Dale Earnhardt, his guide, back on the task of finding Billy’s Eternal Home.

Finally, meeting up with Billy Ray and Dale, the foursome finds themselves in the future where World War III has devastated the country. The team discovers the cause of the start of the war and vows to mitigate that circumstance and save the world from devastation. They encounter their old nemesis, Lucifer, who has in mind trading preventing the war in exchange for Sam accepting his offer to be his queen.

Since Lucifer’s offer is a non-starter, Sam and James must overcome Lucifer’s interference and work to change the course of history, or humankind is doomed. 

Excerpt

“So, it looks like Wyatt will take you home. At least that’s what he said.”

“I don’t want to be no bother given that his brothers is shot up.”

“They’ll be fine. Small wounds. Them rustlers weren’t good shots.”

“What happened to them?”

“We killed ’em.”

The old man looks at Doc with eyes open much wider. “Y-you killed ’em?”

“Yup. Them damned rustlers, or as some would say, cowboys, had it coming. Stood there as arrogant as all get out and then started shooting.”

“Like you say, they weren’t great shots.”

“I’ll say. Virgil, Morgan, Wyatt, and I shot maybe once to their three. My shotgun was an equalizer, for sure.”

Wyatt comes over to the table, and his frown makes him look as if he only has one eyebrow. He leans on his fists, knuckles down. “Doc, you need to see the doctor.”

“I’m sittin’ here waiting.”

“You need to come over to him. He’s got all his equipment strung out on the bar. Now, no foolin’ around. You come with me.”

Doc heaves a big sigh and rises out of the chair. The sweat on his forehead broadcasts the difficulty of the maneuver.

Wyatt takes Doc’s good arm. “Look at you. You can hardly stand, and you’re sittin’ here drinkin’ whiskey.”

Doc coughs a couple of times. “Sittin’ here takes no effort, Wyatt. Now, if you leave me be.”

“Like hell, I will. You need attention, and you will get it if I have to drag you over there.” Wyatt’s attention turns to the old man. “You sit here. I’ll be right back.”

The old man nods, and Wyatt drags Doc over to see the doctor. After a few minutes of supervising the doctor’s action, Wyatt steps back from what has become a makeshift infirmary. He returns to the table. “Mind if I have a drink?”

The old man waves Wyatt into a chair. “Please, help yourself, but you’ll need a glass.” Wyatt scoffs and puts the bottle to his lips. He takes a long pull and uses his sleeve as a napkin. “Doc always has the best whiskey.”

The old man nods. “This is good stuff.”

“So, old man. We need to get you home.”

“Please, Wyatt. I don’t want to be any trouble.”

Wyatt smiles. “Those guys today were trouble. You won’t be any, I assure you. By my reckoning, you won’t be able to sit a horse. Am I correct?”

Trailer Link https://animoto.com/play/0Z6vyFwQqrAZjjVAlciipw

 

Bio

 John is an award-winning author who after an extensive business career began writing full time in 2012. His specialty is thriller fiction novels, but John also writes poetry and short stories. He has written Seven other books that are on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.

John lives in Lakeway, Texas with his wife and their spoiled rescue pets.

Author links

Blog Fiction Favorites, http://johnwhowell.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/john.howell.98229241

Twitter –https://www.twitter.com/HowellWave

Goodreads –https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7751796.John_W_Howell

Amazon Author’s page –https://www.amazon.com/author/johnwhowell

BookBub – https://www.bookbub.com/profile/john-w-howell

BlueSky – @johnhowellauthor.bsky.social

Buy Links

Universal paper https://mybook.to/Detour-Paper

Universal ebook https://mybook.to/Detour-Eebook