Daffodils: a young woman seeks adventures outside her rural village

Daffodils is the first book in the Katherine Wheels series by Alex Martin. With the Great War ranging far from the English countryside, Katherine “Katy” Beagle is a maidservant at Cheadle Manor. She longs to escape her life in her rural village and see the world. To have adventures she has only read about in books. Through a series of events, she decides to do her part in the war effort and becomes a mechanic in the Woman’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) as part of the British Expeditionary Force. Katy strives to break free from the class hierarchy she has always known. As she witnesses the horrors of World War I, she learns that love can bring freedom. Will it be worth the price she paid? 

I have attempted to read Daffodils twice now and this second time I was able to finish it; however, it wasn’t anything special. Despite the historical backdrop, Katy’s story was nothing special. It was simple writing with very little going on. There were so many unnecessary details which bogged down the story’s flow. I feel the characters weren’t developed enough with no real growth. Katy at the beginning is similar to Katy at the end. Really? She doesn't change at all despite her experiences in the war. Speaking of the war, there are historical mistakes that even the basic research would have made known. Overall, I did not enjoy this story. I will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend Daffodils. 

Daffodils is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook 

Always My Girl: a second chance romance novella

Always My Girl is a novella in the Western Wildcats series by Jennifer Sucevic. When Viola was offered a scholarship to Western University, she knew she had to accept. The downside, her ex, Madden, plays hockey for the Wildcats. The chances she could run into him are likely. After he broke her heart three years ago, she has made it a mission to avoid him at all costs. She was successful until she saw Madden at a party. Madden never forgot Viola and with each day, he regretted his decision to end their relationship. When he sees her at a party, he sees it as his chance to make things right. Can he convince her that she was always his girl? 

Always My Girl is a quick read and I mean quick. Just as I was introduced to the characters and settled into their new relationship, the story was over. I was able to read it in an afternoon. However quick, I enjoyed this second chance romance; however, I do wish it was just a little bit longer. I enjoyed the characters. There were moments of humor and romance. I am hoping that Viola and Madden make appearances in the Western Wildcats series and I am looking forward to the series. If you enjoyed the Western Wildcats series or enjoy quick reads, I recommend Always My Girl. 

Always My Girl is available in eBook

To Marry the Duke: an American heiress, a English duke and a romance that changes everything

To Marry the Duke is the first book in the American Heiress trilogy by Julianne MacLean. American heiress Sophia Wilson leaves her home in New York for the London Season. Her goal: to marry an aristocratic husband. While her father is willing to pay generously, Sophia hopes to marry for love. For the dark, handsome Duke of Wentworth, James Langdon, love is the last thing he is concerned about. With the family’s dark past, he pushes aside all thoughts of marriage and heirs. However, his castle falling into disrepair, he needs cash fast. A marriage with the beautiful Sophia seems to be the perfect solution. What he doesn’t account for is how enchanted he becomes with his new wife. When a figure from the past threatens to undo it all, James and Sophia must decide between the marriage they thought they wanted and the passion that burns within them. 

Described as “perfect for fans of Bridgerton and Downton Abbey,” this story is set in the Gilded Age and the political and business dealings of marriage. To Marry the Duke is a different genre than I have read from Ms MacLean before; however, as a fan of Downton Abbey, I was eager to read it. The story was interesting and attention getting. I loved Sophia as a young woman who knew what she wanted even if it meant shaking up the Langdon family. I also enjoyed James as a man bound by duty as well as a desire to stop the family circle. There are individuals to hate, to pity and to cheer for. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy. If you enjoy historical fiction with romance and drama, I highly recommend To Marry the Duke. 

To Marry the Duke is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Lie a Little: a woman finds an abandoned child, opens a new business and builds a new life in a new town

Lie A Little is the first book in The Faredene Saga by Debra Delaney. Victoria Kavanagh lived a lonely life after a tumultuous childhood and witnessing her father’s violent behavior, she vows to never marry. But she still desires for a child so when she finds an abandoned baby at a church, she doesn’t hesitate. Desperate to keep him, she decides to leave her home, opening a new business and build a new life in Faredene which is hopefully far enough away that her past will never come back. Now in a world where men are vying for her attention, Victoria must decide who she can trust. As the day to day challenges of motherhood and running her business test Victoria, she knows there is no going back. However, when a chain of events occurs which brings danger to her and her son, Victoria faces a difficult choice. 

After reading the synopsis, I thought I would enjoy this story. However, from the opening chapter to the closing pages, Lie A Little was not the heartwarming story I thought I would be reading. It also doesn’t help that I didn’t care for Victoria. I understand Victoria is a woman who doesn’t trust easily. However, she meets a man for the first time on the train to her new home and she automatically thinks he is a good guy?!? Her views on marriage are also understandable. I also commend her for her desire to save a baby who was abandoned. However, I thought she was naive and while she had good intentions, I felt she made some bad decisions. Overall, I was bored. I wasn’t excited to see Victoria succeed and build a new life. I will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend Lie a Little. 

Lie a Little is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Smitten with the Best Man: a divorced single mom and a man from her past are reunited in Chicago

Smitten with the Best Man is the first book in the Chicago Law series by Piper Rayne. Victoria has moved back home to Chicago to help her ailing mother. With her seven year old daughter in tow, she has no time for dating as she has sworn off all men. That all changes when she runs into Reed Warner, who was her ex-husband’s friend and best man at their wedding. Still as charming and handsome as ever, Reed is now an assistant district attorney. No matter how hard Victoria tries, Reed finds a way to be a part of her life, unwilling to take no for an answer. Despite her best efforts, she feels her willpower failing as Reed seems to be not who she thought he was and the idea of a little fun has her willpower waning. Will she take a chance with Reed?

Smitten with the Best Man was originally published as Manic Monday, the first book in the Charity Case series. I was excited for this book as I have enjoyed Piper Rayne books in the past. However, I was bored. I didn’t care for Victoria at all. While I understand that she is jaded from her divorce and her cheating ex-husband, I didn’t care for the anti-man sentiments among Victoria and her co-workers. Again, I get that they are divorced and hurting but it was way too much. I liked Reed. He was sweet and very patient. I loved his interactions with Victoria’s daughter and other kids. Overall, I did not enjoy Smitten with the Best Man. I feel that Victoria was just not smitten with Reed. I will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend Smitten with the Best Man. 

Smitten with the Best Man is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

The Movie Star Becomes a Cowboy: a fast paced, clean romance

The Movie Star Becomes a Cowboy is the first book in the Silverstone Ranch series by April Murdock. Marguerite is done with love. She devotes herself to caring for her five year old son as well as running Silverstone Ranch with her family. Her father invites Cade Cooper, a drop dead gorgeous movie star for an “all-inclusive” learning experience as Cade prepares for his upcoming movie role. Marguerite doesn’t have time to babysit Cade as she is preparing for the upcoming rodeo the ranch is hosting. Cade plans to get the full experience of life on the ranch. However, it is the standoffish Marguerite that catches his attention. He is determined to show her that he is not the typical celebrity. Marguerite doesn’t trust easily but will she let her guard down enough to allow Cade the opportunity to show his sincerity? 

The Movie Star Becomes a Cowboy is a fast paced, clean romance with humor, drama and a happily ever after. Marguerite is a woman who is used to taking care of everyone else which leaves little time for herself. Cade is a man with a painful past and, despite his celebrity, doesn’t want all the glitz and glamour that Hollywood can offer. My heart broke for Marguerite as she carried a burden that she felt she needed to in order to keep the family running. And her little boy was adorable. I enjoyed Cade’s tenacity to try to get Marguerite to relax a bit and realize that it is okay to take time for oneself. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to the rest of the series. I highly recommend The Movie Star Becomes a Cowboy. 

The Movie Star Becomes a Cowboy is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Are Christians required to tithe?

A question I have heard a lot recently is about tithing. So many televangelists are often seen on television urging believers to give and give and give. Are Christians required to tithe? Many Christians believe that they are required to give ten percent of their monthly income to their church. It is a sentiment I have heard on multiple occasions that someone isn’t a true Christian if they are not tithing. So are Christians required to tithe? The simple answer is no. Why not? What is the Old Testament standard? What are Christians commanded to give? What are my thoughts on this subject after my studying? 

The ten percent standard has been carried over from the Old Testament standard. Tithe means a tenth. Under the Mosaic Law, Israelites gave ten percent of their crops and livestock to support the temple, the Levite priests, feasts and the poor. The tithe functioned as a tax as it supported the national and religious structures of Israel under the old covenant. Even before the Mosaic Law, giving of a tenth was used. Abraham gave a one time gift to Melchizedek (Genesis 4:20) but there is no evidence in Scripture that he gave regularly to God (Schreiner, 2017). Jacob gave a tenth signifying his gratefulness to God (Genesis 28:20-22); however, it was not required of Jacob to do so (Schreiner, 2017). Tithing in the Old Testament was tied to the land of Israel and related to the Jews as a nation as well as a religious people. 

Christians are not under the Mosaic covenant (Romans 6:14-15; 7:5-6, Galatians 3:15-4:7; and 2 Corinthians 3:4-18). Some of the moral laws still apply as Jesus taught them but tithing is not among these commands (Schreiner, 2017). However, the New Testament teaches a new standard: the cheerful giver. There is no specific percentage or other fixed amount commanded. Instead, Jesus commanded a voluntary generous heart. Believers are to give freely, regularly and cheerfully out of what they have. It should be done quietly with a humble heart. In Matthew 6:1-4, Jesus commanded that we are not to give to show off, to give privately so only God can see and that God rewards sincere giving rather than giving from obligation. This idea is further presented in the story of the widow with the two coins. Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4 feature this lesson from Jesus as he points out the widow who gives the two coins in the temple treasury. In the Lord’s eyes, the widow gave more than the others combined. Why? Because she gave out of her poverty and not her wealth. A gift given grudgingly isn’t a gift at all. Gifts of any size are pleasing to God when they are given out of gratitude and generosity. 

The principle of giving is a matter of personal choice and giving should be done without compulsion or legalistic pressure guided by personal prayer and gratitude. Christians should give out of their prosperity. If they are struggling, then they don’t give as much (Winger, 2026). It is not the amount that is important, it is our heart, our attitude and our spirit. 2 Corinthians 9:7 tells “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Again, our attitude is more important than the amount we give. However, I do believe if someone is a regular attendee to a church, they should be supporting that church. Again, the amount is up to the individual, according to what they can give. The matter of your giving is between you and God as he talks into account our circumstances (Billy Graham Evangelistic Association). As Bible Thinker Mike Winger said, we should be “giving to the poor instead of taking from them” (2026).

In conclusion, while tradition would state the tenth rule for our tithing, our rule and authority comes from Scripture. And Scripture does not command Christians give a tenth. We are to give according to our means and our heart. Christians are commanded to preach the gospel (Matthew 10:10, Luke 10:7, 1 Corinthians 9:6-14, and 1 Timothy 5:17-18). And we are commanded to give generously (1 Timothy 5:17-19 and 2 Corinthians 8-9). However, the generous giving is not stated that it has to go to a church. It can be to the family who is struggling. It can be to the food bank that serves the community. Seek God’s guidance where your giving should go and give generously according to your means. 

References

Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Does a Christian have to tithe? Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. https://billygraham.org/answers/does-a-christian-have-to-tithe. Retrieved September 6, 2026. 

Schreiner, Thomas (March 28, 2017). 7 Reasons Christians Are Not Required to Tithe. The Gospel Coalition. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/7-reasons-christians-not-required-to-tithe/. Retrieved September 6, 2026. 

Winger, Mike (May 8, 2026). Question 3: Tithing: A Universal Obligation?} Does Abram’s tithe to Melchizedek support that tithing is a universal moral obligation since that passage is pre-law and Melchizedek is a type of Christ? The dangerous trend of fake prophets on YouTune: 10 Qs with Mike Winger (Ep. 76). https://www.youtube.com/live/U_Dw0lcpwAI?si=hAQASD59fqp6hbUe. Retrieved September 11, 2026. 

The People's Library: a science fiction fantasy where secrets and dangers lurk in a futuristic library

The People’s Library by Veronica G Henry is a science fiction fantasy set in the future Cleveland as twisted secrets and dangers lurk in a futuristic library. Echo London never wanted to be a curator in the People’s Library, a digital collection of human consciousness. When her beloved library gets shut down, she is assigned at the People’s Library as the head librarian. She is entrusted with the greatest minds and historical figures of humanity which have been recreated through a controversial conscientiousness capturing technology. Essentially, visitors can interact with the dead. However, there is an anti-technology rebellion brewing and when an attack results in tragedy. Echo wonders if there is more to her job than meets the eye. She must discover if there is danger lurking in the shadows. What happens to the fate of humanity if she uncovers the truth? 

The People’s Library was an Amazon First Reads in January and it promised to be a “thought-provoking science fiction fantasy.” So I took a chance. While I am not usually a science fiction fantasy reader, the premise sounded promising. The story started off great; however, it quickly fell off. There was no real depth to the characters. Echo is described as having synesthesia with no clear description of what it is. I had to look it up to get a clearer picture of this condition. The story felt like another futuristic dystopian story with the evil corporations and utopian ideals. Also, the idea that the number zero scared early populations like the church was irritating. Again, someone assuming ancient people were idiots because they didn’t have the technology that we have today. The author had a great idea but had no idea how to execute it. Overall, I was bored. I do not recommend The People’s Library. 

The People’s Library is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Play Me: an enemies to lovers rugby sport romance

Play Me is the first book in the Play Me series by Adrianna Locke. Astrid is tasked as an assistant to the new hotshot player for the Tennessee Royals rugby team. It should have been easy: keep him on schedule and out of trouble. However, she never thought she would utterly despise another human so much. Gray Adler is certainly not making it easy as he finds new ways to get under her skin. It doesn’t help that he is built like a golden Greek god. When Astrid finally settles in her hate for Gray, something takes a turn. Suddenly, everything about him causes her skin to sizzle. His grins make her inside turn to jelly and their sharp barbs turn to flirty banter that makes her flush. Gray Adler is hiding a secret and when she discovers the secret, she must ask herself. Is he telling the truth or is she getting played? 

I love good enemies to lovers sports romance. Although I would call Play Me more a hate to love romance than an enemies to lovers. However, from the opening chapter I didn’t care for Astrid. Granted, her first meeting with Gray was less than ideal; however, she certainly exacerbated the situation. And when she and Gray do get together and she discovers his secrets, she claims he lied to her. I’m sorry? What?!? They were not even officially together yet and why would he reveal his biggest secret? Also they get matching tattoos before even saying “I love you.” Yikes! I think what irritated me the most is that the game of rugby has little bearing in this story. Take it out and put in any other sport and it would still be the same story. Overall, I did not enjoy Play Me and I will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend Play Me. 

Play Me is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Dare to Love the Guy Next Door: a second chance romance with humor and sweet moments

Dare to Love the Guy Next Door is the second book of the Forever Marriage Match series by Ellie Hall. Paisley Jones was envisioning a life of glitz and glamour with her movie star fiancé. However, after a humiliating public scandal, she escapes to the family cottage on the Atlantic shore. She planned to hide, lick her wounds and work on her next steps. What she didn’t plan on was a crazy seagull plotting against her and her gorgeous next door neighbor. Griffin Sanders was a late blooming goofball turned competitive surfer and finds himself at the family beach cottage. He is shocked to discover that his neighbor is his teen crush. Even though Paisley does not recognize him at first, they quickly reconnect over childhood memories. Is Griffin just another guy seeking fame and fortune or is the one who will ride the waves of life with her? 

Dare to Love the Guy Next Door is a sweet, clean and cute second chance romance. There are moments of dealing with lingering grief and overcoming fears. There were great funny moments and there was one particular moment in which Paisley had a great comeback for a woman who was attempting to put her down and I laughed out loud. It was a great moment. There were also sweet flirty moments that made me smile. The situation with the trouble making seagull was hilarious. I loved Paisley and Griffin as individuals and as a couple. I also loved Paisley’s friends through their text messages with Paisley. There were moments of tension and deep heart to heart talks that deepened their relationship. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to the rest of the series. I highly recommend Dare to Love the Guy Next Door. 

Dare to Love the Guy Next Door is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Olivia Strauss is Running Out of Time: a woman faces the possibility of her death and learns to truly live

Olivia Strauss is Running Out of Time by Angela Brown is the story of a woman who faces the possibility of her death and learns to truly live. Olivia Strauss is turning thirty-nine. As she considers herself still young, young enough to think that she still has decades to accomplish the items on her life’s to-do list. Olivia has time to bring back the spark to her marriage. She has plenty of time to play with her young son and even have another child if she so desires. She has plenty of time until her best friend, Marian, gives her a birthday present. A visit to a trendy wellness clinic which boasts of a state of the art genetic test that can predict the exact date of one’s death. When the results arrive, Olivia realizes she has a lot of living to do. No more excuses to do the items that she keeps putting off. 

Olivia Strauss is Running Out of Time is described as a “funny and emotionally moving comedy of errors about the gifts of growing older.” Unfortunately, I did not find it funny or emotionally moving. The story is filled with the stereotypes of a woman approaching forty and thinking everything is falling apart. I never related to the fear of turning forty, even now as I am closer to fifty, I do not fear getting older. So it was difficult to relate to Olivia or any of the women in this story. Olivia focused on what she hadn’t accomplished yet, instead of what she had. And while it was not from Olivia, but her annoying neighbor friends, the “Oh, life is over at forty” was so outdated. And their joke presents were eyerollingly annoying. Her only true friend was Marian and Olivia, at times, treated her so harshly. Overall, I did not enjoy this story. I do not recommend Olivia Strauss is Running Out of Time. 

Olivia Strauss is Running Out of Time is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

In Want of a Wife: in a Pride and Prejudice retelling featuring Charlotte and Colin

In Want of a Wife is the first book in the Pemberley Ranch series by Shanae Johnson. It is a well known rule that you don’t go after our best friend’s ex boyfriend. Charlotte Lee wouldn’t even consider it. The Bennett family is well known and Charlotte has always felt like an adopted member. When her best friend, Eliza, refuses Colin Hunsford’s proposal and Charlotte loses out on a job that she thought she was a shoe in for, Charlotte begins to consider breaking the rule. In order to fulfill the terms of his inheritance, Colin needs a wife. When Eliza rejects his marriage proposal, he offers Charlotte a marriage of convenience. With few romance choices and job prospects, Charlotte accepts his offer. Their marriage becomes inconvenient as Charlotte and Colin begin to feel more than they bargained for. 

I am not a huge fan of Jane Austen; however, I have enjoyed retellings of her most famous stories. With a story as well-known and beloved as Pride and Prejudice, it is ambitious to write a retelling. In Want of a Wife is a clean and wholesome romance that promises “laugh out loud romantic comedy” and “sweet and swoony situations.” Unfortunately, I did not laugh out loud. Some moments were more cringey than humorous for me. There were swoony moments and the happily ever after is sweet. Charlotte and Colin were a cute couple and they did remind me of their Austen characters. Overall, this story fell flat for me and I doubt I will continue this series. However, if you enjoy Jane Austen and want to read any retellings, I recommend checking out In Want of a Wife. 

In Want of a Wife is available in paperback and eBook

The Echo of Old Books: a rare book dealer finds two books which tell the story of a tragic romance

The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis is a story about the power of books. Books have been the ultimate escape for Ashlyn Greer. It is more than the scent of the ink, paper and bindings. She can feel the echoes of the books’ previous owners, the emotional fingerprint left behind. This ability makes her job as a rare book dealer more exciting. When she discovers a pair of beautifully bound volumes that appear to have never been officially published and the authors, Belle and Hemi, are telling conflicting sides of a tragic romance. Ashlyn finds herself caught up in the literary mystery and she is determined to learn the truth behind the heartbreaking tale. As she tracks down where the books came from, can she discover who Belle and Hemi really are? Can she bring closure to the love story and maybe even the unwritten chapters of her own life? 

As I loved Ms. Davis’ previous books, The Keeper of Happy Endings and The Last of the Moon Girls, I was looking forward to reading The Echo of Old Books. I was intrigued by Ashlyn’s ability to feel the emotions left behind with the books. The story started off great; however, Ashlyn’s ability doesn’t really matter in the overall story. I didn’t care for any of the characters, especially Ashlyn. We get a lot of the book is the story told through the unpublished book, a lot of he said/she said bitterness and resentment that I did not care why this couple’s romance ended so tragically. The book is marketed as a dual timeline; however, I feel it is more of a book within a book story. Sadly, The Echo of Old Books just doesn’t compare to her previous books I have read. I do not recommend The Echo of Old Books. 

The Echo of Old Books is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

The Letters We Keep: a 50 year old mystery brings together two students

The Letters We Keep by Nisha Sharma is a story of two star crossed lovers. Everyone on the campus of Hartcellar University knows the legend of Davidson Tower and the star crossed lovers who disappeared one night. Jessie Ahuja is an aspiring engineer and ambitious freshman who wants to succeed for her parents. Ravi Kumar is a senior and privileged billionaire nepo baby. When the two clash over a library study room, she wants nothing to do with them. However, things change when a campus prank finds them both locked in the old tower’s abandoned library. There, Jessie finds letters related to the lost lovers in a hollowed out copy of Persuasion. Together, Jessie and Ravi are pulled into the fifty year old mystery and a beautiful romance as well as a romance of their own. As Jessie sees a connection between the lovers in the letters and themselves, Can they discover what happened to the couple fifty years ago? Is their romance doomed to the same fate? 

I bought this book a couple of years ago and it recently came up on my To Be Read list. I wasn’t sure what I expected when I started this book. I dove in. At first, I wasn’t sure about the story and the characters. The constant talk about Jessie and Ravi’s economic differences was tiresome. However, once Jessie and Ravi find the letters and they get wrapped up in the romance unfolding in them, I too, was invested. I loved Jessie and Ravi’s romance as they dealt with their different backgrounds and family expectations. I thought the mystery of the tower and the lovers was great; however, I was worried that what happened to the lovers would not be revealed. However, it was revealed in a great way. There was a detail revealed that I literally had my hand fly to my mouth in shock! Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was so good and better than my expectations. I highly, highly recommend The Letters We Keep. 

The Letters We Keep is available in hardcover, paperback, eBook and audiobook

Written in Starlight: a romantic portal fantasy with a cosmic twist

Written in Starlight by Sloane Brooks is a romantic portal fantasy with a cosmic twist. Della Farley is a chambermaid. She kept her head down and dreamed of something more. One day she stumbles across a strange book about a man named Ansel Tulzok, a wanted fugitive traveling the stars. The strange part is the book seems to be written as she is reading it. Light years away, Ansel finds a mirror copy of the same book. He is reading the story of a woman he has never met. The two begin writing to each other through the pages, opening doors between their worlds. Della decides to write herself into Ansel’s story and finds herself on Ansel’s ship. Together, they agree to help each other. However, every story has a price and they must decide how far they will go to change their fate. 

I was intrigued by the description of Written in Starlight and looked forward to reading this story. The beginning was great and hooked me into the story. Ansel reminded me of Star-Lord from Guardians of the Galaxy. Unfortunately, the middle of the story sagged a bit as Della wrote herself into Ansel’s story, his perspective and internal thoughts are lost. The romance between Della and Ansel becomes lost even the mystery of the plotline was lackluster as well. However, the ending was good. I do like the concept that our lives are books in a cosmic library. Overall, I did not enjoy the story as much as I wished I did. I just wasn’t wowed. However, I see readers who live action adventures, fantasy and a little sci-fi would love this story. If you are intrigued by the premise of this story, I recommend checking out Written in Starlight. 

Written in Starlight is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Heirs of Infamy: two teens from rival gangs join forces for a heist of a lifetime

Heirs of Infamy by Kyla Zhao is a story of friends to lovers among two rival crime families in postwar San Francisco. The East Phoenix deals in secrets and stealth while the West Dragon is fists and fear. However, with the rise of the Red Scare and anti-Chinese hostility, both crime families have a fragile truce that weakens with each passing day. Alexis Sung is the daughter of East Phoenix’s crime boss and all she wants to do is join the family business. When her first job goes wrong, her father refuses to allow her to join any other jobs. Her friend and classmate, Zachary Ren is a brilliant orphan who was raised by West Dragons. He is desperate to leave the crime life. When given a chance for a large payday for both families, Alexis defies her father’s orders and joins Zachary in a shaky alliance. As they plot and plan, old wounds are reopened and new sparks fly. 

With the gorgeous book cover and a title that caught my attention. I was intrigued by this story and I couldn’t wait to read it. The story started out great and grabbed my attention. I loved the history of the postwar atmosphere of San Francisco and Chinatown and the racial tensions of the day. I loved the relationships between Alexis and Zachary. However, the heist they were planning slowed the story down. The actual heist takes place off the page and I was disappointed. I wanted to see them succeed or fail but not be told what happened. The ending itself was disappointing and felt rushed, although I liked where Alexis and Zachary end up. Overall, I enjoyed this story. The author’s writing is beautiful and I enjoyed that she included the Chinese characters for the idioms the characters used. It added to the realism of the characters and I also appreciated that she followed it with the translation. I recommend Heirs of Infamy. 

Heirs of Infamy will be available in hardcover and eBook on October 13, 2026

Saved by the Rockstar: a woman who social anxiety and the rockstar who helps her find the strength to step into the world

Saved by the Rockstar is the first book in the Rich and Famous romance series by Michelle Pennington. Julie Chambers is a famous author who has crippling social anxiety so she avoids the spotlight. Her only interaction with the outside world is her weekly vlog to connect with her fans. When she raves about the rock star who had inspired her writing, she is surprised when he responds. As the lead singer of Sterling House, Ryland Sterling loves his music and performing, just not the fake women that go along with it. When his little sister shows him the vlog of her favorite author who mentions his band, he is intrigued by her. With the possibility of meeting in person, can Julie find the courage to face her anxiety and step into the world she has been avoiding? 

Saved by the Rockstar is a sweet, action packed romance. It was a quick read as I could not put it down. I immediately loved Julie and felt for her as she fears large crowds. I also loved Ryland who was so gentle and understanding with Julie. Their chemistry and connection was immediate and clear. I enjoyed their interactions online, via text and in person. The conflicts between the characters felt genuine as well as their resolutions. I knew there was someone waiting in the wings to destroy their budding relationship. I had an idea who this person was and the reveal confirmed my suspicion and yet I held my breath as I read. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I look forward to the rest of the series. I highly recommend Saved by the Rockstar.

Saved by the Rockstar is available in eBook

The Apothecary Diaries Vol 5: Maomao's adventure continue as new threats lurk

The Apothecary Diaries Vol 5 by Natsu Hyuuga is a light novel based on the manga series of the same name. With the birth of Consort Gyokuyou’s son has elevated her to the status of Empress and Jinshi can no longer continue to pretend at the rear palace the political atmosphere has changed. Although life seems to be settling after the destruction of the Shi clan; however, new threats wait in the wings from a potential plague of insects to enemies from distant lands. And despite her best efforts, Maomao finds herself right in the middle. When Jinshi orders an expedition to Gyokuyou’s homeland, Maomao finds herself heading west. Something is lurking in the shadows of the glittering city and Maomao races against time to discover the truth before it is too late. 

As a fan of The Apothecary Diaries anime, I have been excited to read the light novels. So for my recent birthday, and the upcoming season 3, I received the fifth volume as a present. Season 3 will begin with the events of volume 5 and I immediately jumped and joined Maomao on her newest adventures. I enjoyed this story so much and I can’t wait to read the rest of the light novels as well as the newest seasons of the anime. There were moments that I literally dropped my jaw as Maomao reveals the how and why to the events, especially at the end and the clues and hints to certain relationships and future events. If you are a fan of The Apothecary Diaries, I highly recommend the light novels. 

The Apothecary Diaries Vol 5 is available in paperback and eBook

Chasing Home: a woman running from a painful past finally finds the home she didn't know she wanted

Chasing Home is the first book in the Triple Star Ranch series by Emma Woods. After a tragic loss in her young life, Emily is a woman who doesn’t stay in one place for long. She comes to Birch Springs, Wyoming for work always with the door open to be on the road once again. She quickly meets Nate, a local charmer, and she decides that he is no good. Unfortunately, she learns that he is also a volunteer at the Triple Star Ranch when she joins the organization. However, as they spend time together, she and Nate grow closer and Emily is conflicted with a choice she desperately didn’t want to make. Does she leave as planned? Or does she finally put down roots for love and the home she didn’t know she wanted and learn that home is where the heart is? 

Chasing Home is a clean contemporary romance with cowboys. It is a sweet romance although a bit melodramatic for me. Emily is a woman on the run from the past, from the hurt and pain she doesn’t want to confront. Nate is a young man who is trying to figure out himself. I liked that together, Emily and Nate find their future and stability. The conflicts were settled a little too quickly and easily for me, especially one particular conflict which was a serious topic that deeply affected Emily. While marketed as a Christian romance, the Christian themes are subtle and aren't too heavy. It is great for those who like Christian lite stories. There are moments of emotion and crying out to God. Overall, I enjoyed this story and look forward to other stories in this series. I recommend Chasing Home. 

Chasing Home is available in paperback and eBook

Mail Order Duchess: family duty and a mail order bride with grief, faith and love

Mail Order Duchess is the first book in the Lords of the Rockies series by Misty M Beller. The five Balfour brothers were raised on the family’s Montana ranch nestled in the Rocky Mountains. When the eldest son of an English duke dies suddenly, Enoch Balfour must take his place as the heir of the family title, the Duke of Clarence as well as marry the mail order bride his brother had sent for. However, Enoch has no intention to open his heart to this unknown woman. Mandie Beaumont is desperate to leave her family’s home. When she arrives in Montana, she suffers an accident which takes her recent memories, memories that conceal a secret. As the Balfour brothers take care of Mandie, giving her a place to rest and recover, her resilience begins to thaw the ice around Enoch’s heart. When Mandie’s past comes to his front door, Enoch must decide to risk his heart again to save her. 

Mail Order Duchess is a great clean romance with dramatic, faith and struggles. Enoch is a man who understands family duty. Grieving for his brother doesn’t stop that. Mandie finds herself in a situation where she feels her only option is to run. She answers an ad for a mail order bride. I have always been amazed at the courage that these women had to travel to somewhere they have never been to marry a man they’ve never met. And Mandie felt that a man in Montana must be better than the one who is trying to run from. Enoch and Mandie’s story hooked from the very beginning and I could not put this book down. I enjoyed the realistic depictions of the struggles with grief, loss and moving forward with faith. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I look forward to the rest of the stories in this series. I highly, highly recommend Mail Order Duchess. 

Mail Order Duchess is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

 

Marrying Mandy: a marriage of convenience between best friends and a love they have both been denying

Marrying Mandy is the first book in the Brides of Clearwater series by Melanie D. Snitker. After her parents’ divorce and their abandonment, Mandy Hudson vowed never to marry. Even though she was raised by her loving grandparents, she feels that real love just doesn’t last. When her grandmother dies, Mandy learns there is a shocking stipulation in the will. In order to inherit her grandparents’ estate, including a bed and breakfast, she must marry. Preston Yarrow has been Mandy’s childhood best friend and he has been in love with her since they were teenagers. He proposes a solution: a marriage of convenience. A marriage they would both benefit from. Mandy would be able to keep the bed and breakfast and Preston will be able to focus on his new woodworking business. They agree to the terms and marry. Life throws curves that Mandy isn’t prepared for especially for the realization that life was better with Preston at her side.

Marrying Mandy is a sweet romance with tearful moments and finding faith in oneself, someone else and in love. I enjoyed Mandy and Preston as individuals and as a couple. Mandy is a woman who learned to do things by herself and protects herself against being hurt. Preston is a man who is content with being Mandy’s best friend, even when he would like more. When Mandy is in trouble of losing the only home she has known, He jumps in to help with no other motive than to help. I loved that as each curve is thrown and Mandy is scrambling to deal with it, Preston is there, lovingly and gently, telling her that she does not need to handle it alone. I also loved how the community gathers together to show Mandy the same thing. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I highly recommend Marrying Mandy. 

Marrying Mandy is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Thoughts that have been on my mind and heart with recent events

I had something completely different topic set for this month’s bible study; however given recent events and the anniversaries of Charlie Kirk’s death and 9/11, I feel I need to talk about something that has been on my mind and heart for a while. It is not that I am afraid of the future because I know who holds the future; it is a conflict between what my head knows and what my heart feels. I often turn to prayer for peace of mind and remind myself that Jesus said, “do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself” (Matthew 6:34). However, every now and then, the events of the world weigh on my mind and heart more than usual. I wonder if I have studied the Bible well enough. I have taught my children enough, preparing them for the world they will see outside our door. How do I discuss topics with someone who will argue for the sake of arguing? Who argues with feelings and refuses to listen to facts? These thoughts and questions flooded my mind more recently as I reflected on the anniversaries of this month. 

The amount of hatred and mockery of Christianity on social media has seriously hurt my heart. While I am not surprised as Jesus said in John 15:18, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first,” it still hurts. As I have seen the redemptive and transformative power of belief in Jesus Christ can bring to someone and in my own life, I have seen His work in my daily life that it is undeniable to me. Someone denying Christ is not surprising but the venom I see online toward God, Jesus and those who believe in Him, I fear, has turned my heart cold to them. Especially online, I usually roll my eyes and move on without trying to correct them. And I hate that I feel this way. However, without realizing it, as I write this God was listening and recently He put in front of me reminders. Yes, as believers, we are called to share the gospel; however, in Matthew 7:6, Jesus said, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.” Meaning? It is useless to try to teach holy concepts to people who don’t want to listen and will only tear apart what we say. If someone comes to me with genuine questions, I have answers and the willingness to look up the answers if I don’t. However, if someone were to come to me with questions in order to belittle me or to attempt to break my faith, I will not entertain such a person.

In the year since Charlie Kirk’s death, I have seen clips of his meetings with skeptics and doubters, and while I was not a fan before his death, I now admire his resolve to bring the truth to as many people as possible. And I am humbled at his passion and resolve. I know I could never be as articulate or knowledgeable as he was, but I hope that I could stand on my faith and the truth as he did. It sickened me as I saw people celebrate his death and still celebrated as the anniversary arrived. There are people in the world I dislike or even despise; however, I would l never celebrate them being sick, ill or even their death. I may not have much sympathy or have no feelings either way for their circumstances; but it feels so wrong and evil to celebrate. While God told us that good would be called evil and evil good, He also proclaimed trouble to those who would do so (Isaiah 5:20), I still struggle with the deep sadness, anger and disgust I feel when I see people celebrating evil. I know Charlie Kirk was aware of the target he put on himself when he chose to stand up, speak out and try to educate others about the lies they have been told. And Christians should also be aware that there is also a target on us as well. Maybe the threat isn’t as strong as Charlie Kirk faced but the day will come when we won’t be able to be as free to worship as we, especially in America, have been. 

I have been a believer for over 30 years and sometimes I still struggle with and feel powerless in the state of the world today. At these moments, I turn to God, to His word and yet, I feel what can little old me do? I am nobody in a world of billions of people. While I know I am somebody to my Lord, to my husband, to my daughters, and my loved ones, I feel like a faceless, powerless nobody. Why would anyone care what I had to say? So I often stay silent and I hate myself when I do. Even as I do these monthly bible studies, I do them for myself and write about what I have learned and post them. I know people read them but do they have any impact in their lives? Does it even matter that I post these at all? As I said at the start, recent events have lit a fire, so to speak, that I want to be different. I want to be prepared to meet any enemy and be prepared to stand up for my faith, even if it means my death. Death?!? Someone might exclaim. Yes, given the state of the world right now and the growing battle against Christ and believers, I believe the day will come when we might be faced with that question and I hope I will be able to say “Yes, I believe in Christ” and lose my life in the process. Because Jesus said that “whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it” (Matthew 16:25, Mark 8:35). 

In conclusion, I set out to write this blog as an honest disclosure of what I have been feeling and thinking recently. As I started writing this blog, my mind was heavy and as I took a few days to further reflect and came back to writing it, I remember that my struggle is with understanding, an understanding that is beyond me. It is an understanding that God, in his wisdom, is telling me his grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9). I am reminded of the book of Philippians, which is one of my favorite books of the Bible. It is a book of hope which seems odd as Paul wrote it while in prison. In Philippians 4, Paul writes to rejoice in the Lord (verse 4) and to not be anxious about anything and to turn to God with our worries in prayer and petition (verse 6). I may not be able to completely battle the mockery of my faith online or understand the celebration of evil, however, I will commit myself to further and deeper study of the Bible and find peace in Jesus Christ.