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Black History Month Read: All We Were Promised

With February being a shortened month, I didn’t get a chance to post this one yet and having a cold hasn’t helped.

384 pages Publisher Ballantine Books Publication date April 1, 2025

ABOUT THE BOOK

WINNER OF THE BLACK CAUCUS OF THE AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION’S FIRST NOVELIST AWARD • BOOK OF THE MONTH CLUB PICK

ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: The Washington Post, NPR, She Reads

Philadelphia, 1837. After Charlotte escaped from the crumbling White Oaks plantation down South, she’d expected freedom to feel different from her former life as an enslaved housemaid. After all, Philadelphia is supposed to be the birthplace of American liberty. Instead, she’s locked away playing servant to her white-passing father, as they both attempt to hide their identities from slavecatchers who would destroy their new lives.

Longing to break away, Charlotte befriends Nell, a budding abolitionist from one of Philadelphia’s wealthiest Black families. Just as Charlotte starts to envision a future, a familiar face from her past reappears: Evie, her friend from White Oaks, has been brought to the city by the plantation mistress, and she’s desperate to escape. But as Charlotte and Nell conspire to rescue her, in a city engulfed by race riots and attacks on abolitionists, they soon discover that fighting for Evie’s freedom may cost them their own.

A compelling story of three black women on different paths in their freedom journey. Richly woven historical fiction about a time, pre-civil war Philadelphia where freedom had been won. But why wasn’t everyone treated as if it was? The ignorance and behavior from my home state is shocking.
The struggle to right a wrong, slavery kept these characters struggling while look towards that glimpse of hope.
The path is carved out towards freedom.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Ashton Lattimore is an award-winning author, journalist, and former lawyer. Her debut novel, All We Were Promised, won the First Novelist Award for the Black Caucus of the American Library Association. Lattimore’s journalism has appeared in the Washington Post, Slate, CNN, Essence, and Prism, where she was editor-in-chief until 2024. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and two sons.

I hope you’ve enjoyed your day.

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Riches Beyond Measure: Christian Historical Western Frontier Romance with Adventure, Cowboys, and a Treasure Hunt (Golden State Treasure)

288 pages Publisher Bethany House Publishers Publication date

October 7, 2025

ABOUT THE BOOK

When they leave the ranch in search of stolen treasure, will the spark between them survive the perils ahead?

When an earthquake strikes Two Harts Ranch, it shakes the life of Annie Lane along with that of Cord Westbrook, who has been working as a cowboy on Annie’s family ranch in anticipation of purchasing his own. The only thing delaying his plan is the deep attraction he feels toward Annie, a widow with a child and an established life as a teacher at the Hart School for Orphans. Unfortunately for Cord, she seems determined to avoid romance.

The aftermath of the earthquake reveals that prized artifacts from the long-sought MacKenzie’s Treasure have been stolen from the ranch. But the return of the MacKenzie family from out east has everyone focused on what other precious finds might be waiting at the end of the legendary two-part map. As Cord, Annie, and the MacKenzies set out in search of riches, they face dangers more treacherous than earthquakes. With gold in their sights and love within reach, Cord and Annie realize that some treasures may fade, but life’s true riches are far more valuable than earthly goods.

Embark on a rousing California wilderness adventure filled with danger, deception, and second chances in this riveting conclusion to Mary Connealy’s Golden State Treasure series–ideal for fans of frontier romances, cowboys, and treasure hunts.

MY THOUGHTS

Riches Beyond Measure is the conclusion to the Golden State Treasure series by Mary Connealy.
You know this one is going to be full of adventure when it starts out with an earthquake.
There were so many twists and turns and suspense that I could hardly put it down.
Despite this and a character or two not having the best of intentions towards others I loved this series and the excitement. Cowboys, treasure hunting, an old ship the excitement just keeps going. I enjoyed the characters and the men were so protective of their ladies and with new relationships being forged life does move on after loss. Nice faith-based novel and I will certainly be looking forward to many more by the author.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist. She is the bestselling author of over 80 books and novellas.

Her most recent book series is: Rocky Mountain Marshals including Ambush of the Heart, and Golden State Treasure, including Whispers of Fortune and Legends of Gold, and Riches Beyond Measure.

Other series include A Western Light Series, Brothers in Arms, Wyominng Sunrise, The Lumber Baron’s Daughters, The Brides of Hope Mountain, High Sierra Sweethearts, Cimarron Legacy, Wild at Heart, Trouble in Texas, and Kincaid Bride for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing, an indy pubbed series called Garrison’s Law, and many novellas.

Mary has over a million and a half books in print.

Thank you for stopping in.

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Blog help needed

Hello all.

I could use a little help if possible. I can go to my blog from my phone through the browser just fine. When I get a WordPress email telling me someone like a post of mine when I click on the link it doesn’t take me to the post and whatever page it takes me to it flickers . The only way I can get out of it is to turn off my phone. This problem is only with my phone.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Deanne 🌸

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Valentine’s Day Read: At Death’s Dough: A Deep Dish Mystery (Deep Dish Mysteries Book 5)

311 pages Publisher Minotaur Books Publication date October 28, 2025

ABOUT THE BOOK

The next book in the delectable Deep Dish Mystery series by Mindy Quigley, set in a Wisconsin pizzeria.

It’s February in the ritzy lakeside resort town of Geneva Bay, Wisconsin, and love is in the air. Pizza chef Delilah O’Leary is gearing up to celebrate her first Valentine’s Day with hunky police detective Calvin Capone, great-grandson of the infamous Chicago mobster. But their romance is put on ice when a shocking discovery plunges them into a century-old crime with ties to Capone’s notorious forefather.

As old secrets surface, Delilah realizes that nearly everyone in town—from Capone’s cagey cousin to her own quirky customers—has something to hide. With the pressure mounting and the past closing in, Delilah must help Capone follow a trail of clues that could lead them to a priceless treasure… or into a deadly trap. Can Delilah serve up justice before history repeats itself? Or will she and Capone end up sleeping with the anchovies?

MY THOUGHTS

Even police detective’s need a break for pizza once in a while and what better place than to stop than the Deep Dish pizza place in the lakeside resort town of Geneva Bay, Wisconsin. Police detective Calvin Capone frequently stops in to see his lady, yes that Capone. The great grandson of the infamous Chicago mobster. His lady is, Pizza chef Delilah O’Leary. This new romance is extra special because they’re getting ready to celebrate Valentines Day.
When a body is found on ice or rather under the ice any romantic thoughts will have to wait for now.
I didn’t care for the gangster lore associated with the last name and there was quite a bit of it.
I did very much enjoy meeting the cat Butterball, who is quite the tub.
But how is an underwater death connected to a treasure trove of gems? This is a fun series that I’ll be continuing on with.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Mindy Quigley is the author of two cozy mystery series. Her most recent, the Deep Dish Mysteries (St. Martin’s Press), has been featured in Parade, Woman’s World, and The Seattle Times.

Mindy’s non-writing career has been stranger than fiction, taking her from the US to the UK, where she worked as the personal assistant to the scientist who cloned Dolly the sheep, and as project manager for a neurology research clinic founded by the author J.K. Rowling.

She lives in Virginia, with her Civil War history professor husband and their children.

Thank you for stopping in.

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Blog Tour for: The Other Lizzie Bennet

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Other Lizzie Bennet

Lizzie Bennet, new recruit at the Little Duck Pond Café, is well used to people teasing her about her name. Actually, she rather likes the fact she shares it with one of author Jane Austen’s most popular heroines. But when life weirdly starts to imitate fiction, it’s suddenly a very different matter. With two potential heroes appearing over the horizon, it’s obvious which one Lizzie should go for – isn’t it?

MY THOUGHTS

I’m not a Jane Austen fan but I am a huge fan of Rosie Green and her Little Duck Pond Cafe series.
Now that I’ve read the latest book in this series, it does have me intrigued to start a Jane Austen book. I’ve read none of them and don’t even know where to start.
The regency fair and the reenactment really had me intrigued to keep reading.
I enjoyed how our characters worked together to solve a mystery as well.
I’ll admit I love the characters in the series. The meeting of new ones in each book and the familiarity of the old standbys.
I laughed out loud several times at some of the scenes, oh my.
The whole thing, the beautiful setting, the characters, their personalities, so realistic. I just loved it all and as always look forward to more in this lovely series!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase Links

Author Bio – Rosie Green is the author of the popular Little Duck Pond Café series, set in the fictional village of Sunnybrook. Watch out for lots more café drama and romance in 2026, including ‘Rumours, Romance & Rhubarb Crumble’ (out in March) and ‘A Cornish Escape’, which will be published in May.

Follow Rosie on Twitter – https://twitter.com/Rosie_Green88

https://www.instagram.com/rosiegreen_author/

Have a wonderful day! Thank you for stopping in.

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Can’t Wait Wednesday!

CAN’T WAIT WEDNESDAY

It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these posts so I thought it would be fun to get back into it again!

Can’t-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted at Wishful Endings to spotlight the books we’re excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they’re books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

This week I am waiting for a book I was just approved for today on NetGalley.

320 pages Publisher Thomas Nelson Publication date August 4, 2026

ABOUT THE BOOK

From USA TODAY bestselling author Kathleen Fuller comes a cozy, kisses-only romance about fresh starts, fall leaves, and finding love right next door, perfect for fans of Gilmore Girls and Sarah Adams.

Via Dalton has sworn off men to focus on the two things she loves most: her quirky cat café, Pawsitive Vibes, and the charming town of Pecan Corner, Ohio. But her peaceful world is shaken when Earl Brewster, the owner of the beloved Second Chapter Books next door, passes away. Via is determined to buy the shop and preserve Earl’s legacy, but her plans hit a snag in the form of a tall, handsome, and completely unexpected heir.

Leo Brewster’s life is thriving in LA, and the last thing he needs is an inheritance in the middle-of-nowhere, Ohio. But the alternative–letting his estranged mother inherit–has him packing his bags to receive the inheritance, quickly sell it off to the highest bidder, and hightail it back to LA. What he didn’t count on was the list of stipulations in the will that has him staying in the small town for a month. Oh, and the determined, sunny café owner next door who refuses to let him destroy the town’s heart without a fight.

Desperate to convince Leo the bookstore is vital to her community, Via challenges Leo to complete her Autumn Bucket List. As they navigate corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals, Leo begins to see the magic in Pecan Corner–and in Via. Despite her vow to stay single and his plan to leave, the attraction between them simmers like hot cider.

Can a season of small-town charm convince a city boy to stay, or will Via lose both the bookstore and her heart?

Grab a warm drink and curl up with this delightful grumpy/sunshine, opposites-attract story of unexpected love and small-town charm.

Have a wonderful day!

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Daily Prompt-Wednesday

Daily writing prompt
If you could permanently ban a word from general usage, which one would it be? Why?
View all responses

I wouldn’t ban a particular word but others from saying, ” I can’t.” or “I’m not good enough.” It would be great to see others with a boost in confidence.

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Black History Month Read: Against the Currant: A Spice Isle Bakery Mystery (Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries Book 1)

304 pages Publisher St. Martin’s Griffin Publication date

January 24, 2023

ABOUT THE BOOK

Little Caribbean, Brooklyn, New Lyndsay Murray is opening Spice Isle Bakery with her family, and it’s everything she’s ever wanted. The West Indian bakery is her way to give back to the community she loves, stay connected to her Grenadian roots, and work side-by-side with her family. The only thing getting a rise out of Lyndsay is Claudio Fabrizi, a disgruntled fellow bakery owner who does not want any competition. On opening day, he comes into the bakery threatening to shut them down. Fed up, Lyndsay takes him to task in front of what seems to be the whole neighborhood. So when Claudio turns up dead a day later?murdered?Lyndsay is unfortunately the prime suspect. To get the scent of suspicion off her and her bakery, she has to prove she’s innocent?under the watchful eyes of her overprotective brother, anxious parents, and meddlesome extended family. What could go wrong?

MY THOUGHTS

The start of a brand-new cozy mystery series.
First let’s start off by saying the titles of these cozies are just so clever.
A new woman owned business (with help from her family) opens in Little Caribbean, Brooklyn, New York. I loved seeing how this family comes together, especially Grandma to keep their culture connected to their Grenadian roots. The West Indian bakery is a way to stay connected to the neighborhood and everyone in the neighborhood is excited for its upcoming opening. The line is long on opening morning and every morning after.
Everyone is happy except for another local baker who is worried about the competition and tells her to back off.
When her reply is seen as a threat and then he winds up dead shortly after this young entrepreneur is prime suspect number one.
Sleuthing and baking seem to go hand in hand for a while as the case gets solved.
I enjoyed seeing the closeness of the family and the delicious foods and cultures being talked about in the book. Entertaining read. Delicious sounding recipes included.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Olivia Matthews is the cozy mystery pseudonym for national best-selling and award-winning author Patricia Sargeant.

Patricia’s work has been featured in national publications such as Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Kirkus Reviews, Suspense Magazine, Mystery Scene Magazine, Library Journal and RT Book Reviews. She’s also been interviewed on podcasts including Destination Mystery with Laura Brennan, Conversations LIVE! with Cyrus Webb, Read You Later with Lasheera Lee and Katara’s Café with Katara Johnson.

Stay connected with Patricia:

Website: http://www.PatriciaSargeant.com.

Email: BooksByPatricia@yahoo.com.

Enewsletter: http://eepurl.com/cOOIPf.

YouTube: https://bit.ly/2Jmbp9E.

Twitter: @BooksByPatricia.

Facebook: @AuthorPatriciaSargeant.

Watch her author brand video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivASYzGogfs.

Patricia has been a keynote speaker and presenter at various events. She’s conducted numerous writing craft workshops for writers groups and book conferences, and offers online fiction writing courses through her The Write Spot website. To contact Patricia about attending your event, email her at BooksByPatricia@yahoo.com.

Thank you for stopping in.

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Black History Month read: Where Wild Peaches Grow

303 pages Publisher Lake Union Publishing Publication date August 30, 2022

ABOUT THE BOOK

In a deeply emotional novel of family, cultural heritage, and forgiveness, estranged sisters wrestle with the choices they’ve made and confront circumstances beyond their control.

Nona “Peaches” Davenport, abandoned by the man she loved and betrayed by family, left her Natchez, Mississippi, home fifteen years ago and never looked back. She’s forged a promising future in Chicago as a professor of African American Studies. Nona even finds her once-closed heart persuaded by a new love. But that’s all shaken when her father’s death forces her to return to everything she’s tried to forget.

Julia Curtis hasn’t forgiven her sister for deserting the family. Just like their mother, Nona walked away from Julia when she needed her most. And Julia doesn’t feel guilty for turning to Nona’s old flame, Marcus, for comfort. He helped Julia build a new life. She has a child, a career, and a determination to move on from old family wounds.

Upon Nona’s return to Natchez, a cautious reunion unfolds, and everything Nona and Julia thought they knew—about themselves, each other, and those they loved—will be tested. Unpacking the truth about why Nona left may finally heal their frayed bond—or tear it apart again, forever.

MY THOUGHTS

Nona “Peaches” Davenport has grown up, moved on and has no need for her family in Natchez, Mississippi.
She knows she has all her stuff together living in Chicago as a professor of African American Studies. Having not been to see any of her family in fifteen years she’s satisfied to keep it that way but then she’s notified her father has passed away.
Returning means, she can no longer hide from the past, she must confront it and head on.
It’s not easy, it’s bitter many times. She deeply regrets not having visited her grandma these past years.
As she returns the feeling of betrayal rears its head and the more, she finds out the harder it gets but confront the past she must. Seeing and knowing isn’t easy. A sense of betrayal but regained closeness and forgiveness make this a worthwhile read.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Cade Bentley is a novelist and editor who is also published as Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author Abby L. Vandiver, as well as Abby Colette. When she isn’t writing, Cade enjoys spending time with her grandchildren. She resides in South Euclid, Ohio. For more information visit http://www.authorabby.com.

Thank you for stopping in.

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Blog Tour for The Cottage at the Edge of the Woods

ABOUT TTHE BOOK

The Cottage at the Edge of the Woods

Some houses won’t let go of the past. Some people won’t, either…

When single mum Libby is offered a life-changing sum of money to clear out an old cottage in the woods, she expects dust and decay. She doesn’t expect a house full of secrets, a room full of birds, and a woman who refuses to leave.

The handsome but stressed architect who hired Libby is also a puzzle. Why can’t Ross empty Elm Cottage himself? What can he possibly see in Libby, who has been burned by love and is wary of attachment? How can they persuade the mysterious but kindly Isobel to move on?

As Libby is pulled into the cottage’s story, she must face up to her own deepest fears. Can she help Isobel, fight the past that haunts her, and learn to open her own heart to love once more?

Jane Lovering’s new novel is a delicious, romantic mystery where secrets, love and healing weave through every page.

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/CottageattheEdge

MY THOUGHTS

Down on her luck Mum, Libby thinks it’s a dream come true when she gets a job clearing a house, but this house has secrets and it’s not letting go of them easily. Even more mysterious is the man who hired her, Ross an architect. Why can’t he just get on with it and empty the house himself? Heartbreaking and yet heartwarming all at once!
I love the author’s books and have read quite a few of them. Yes, they’re romantic, relaxation books but make no mistake these books are not fluff. Each one has important thought-provoking issues.
The book starts off ordinarily enough, but we meet a character that at first, I was unsure of them they seemed a bit frightening in a sense.
But the more I got to know this character the less frightening they got, and I was intrigued by them and kept wanting to read more.
I became emotionally invested in the characters and wanted to know more.
I loved the characters and the setting and greatly look forward to reading more of the author’s books.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Author Bio –

Jane Lovering is the bestselling and award-winning romantic comedy writer who won the RNA Contemporary Romantic Novel Award in 2023 with A Cottage Full of Secrets. She lives in Yorkshire and has a cat and a bonkers terrier, as well as five children who have now left home.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @jane.lovering

Twitter: @janelovering

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JaneLoveringNews

Bookbub profile: @janelovering

Thank you for stopping in.