About the Book

Book: When the South Wind Blows

Author: Barbara A. Curtis

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 14, 2026

He’s spent his life chasing headlines—until the woman behind the story captures his heart.

Elizabeth Canton never planned to abandon her budding theater career, but after witnessing a crime, she has no choice but to disappear. When a family invitation offers refuge at the Double E Ranch, she seizes the chance to hide and finds unexpected purpose helping her young cousin rehearse for the stage, never expecting to be drawn to the local reporter who sees past her carefully kept secrets.

Ranch hand Logan Palmer has always dreamed of writing stories that matter, not livestock columns for the town paper. Elizabeth’s grace catches his eye. But it’s her patience and tenderness with her cousin that captures his heart, even as her mystery stirs his reporter’s instincts. The closer he grows to her, the more he questions whether some stories are better left untold.

As Elizabeth and Logan grow closer, danger follows her to Idaho. When her past catches up with her, she’ll have to choose between protecting her heart and trusting in love. And Logan must decide what matters more—the story that could launch his career, or the woman who’s stolen his heart.

Set against the rugged beauty of the American West, this touching historical romance explores the healing power of family, second chances, and learning that sometimes the greatest role we can play is simply being ourselves.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Marilyn

When the South Wind Blows is filled with action, mystery, characters with dreams, forgiveness, faith and family. Elizabeth had aspiration to be an actor until she overheard something at the theater in New York City. Not understanding why her mother and grandmother were against her great grandparents going to Idaho, she knew this was her opportunity to escape. She was shocked by the lifestyle, but welcomed at the Double E Ranch.  Logan Palmer believed there was a story behind Elizabeth’s unannounced visit and was determined to undercover it, so he could fulfill his aspirations.

The story flowed with twists and turns, generations of family members coming together, the answer to past hurt, and an opportunity for young Susannah to participate in a play, and surprises for the Idaho relatives. Curtis brought this series to a lovely ending with a focus on forgiveness, trusting God during the whirlwind of life and faith to carry each character through. The Double E Ranch and the tale of the yellow blooming Bitterbrush will stay with this reader.

I received an advance of this book from Wild Heart Books for the book tour. I have expressed my own thoughts without any obligation to write a positive review.

About the Author

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

 

 

 

 

 

More from Barbara

Chocolate, Chocolate

What part does chocolate play in When the South Wind Blows? To little Susannah, it plays a big part, as Logan is going to help her frost her salvaged cake.

 

“Miss Lizzie?” Logan hadn’t moved from his spot next to the stove. “If it’s all right with you, may Susannah and I make the frosting for the cake?”

He knew how to make frosting? And again, he included the little girl.

“Thank you. Susannah, why don’t you pull out the cookbook for chocolate that your grandma and I like, and you and Logan will be in charge?”

“Oh yay! The Hershey’s Cookbook? They have the best frosting recipe.”

 

Yes, in 1934 Hershey’s had published a cookbook, so it would have been well loved and used in the Double E Ranch kitchen in 1950.

And Nestlé’s Toll House cookies weren’t far behind, as Nestlé acquired the rights to the original recipe in 1939. By World War II, the cookies were a staple included in packages sent to US servicemen overseas. Do you think they’d mind that Elizabeth called her version Victory cookies? Though they had nothing to do with the war but a little victory right at home.

Have you ever renamed a favorite recipe just for your family for fun?

I hope you enjoy When the South Wind Blows, the final book in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. Maybe with a cup of tea and a chocolate chip cookie to go along with it.

 

Blessings.

Barbara

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 5

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

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 7

Texas Book-aholic, August 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 9

lakesidelivingsite, August 10

Books Less Travelled, August 11 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 11

DevotedToHope, August 12

Connie’s History Classroom , August 13

Cover Lover Book Review, August 14

Sydney Schmied Books, August 15

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, August 16 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, August 17

Pause for Tales, August 17

Giveaway

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

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

https://gleam.io/oVpBV/when-the-south-wind-blows-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Bachelor Spy (A Freddie and Grace Mystery Book 5)

Author: Pepper Basham

Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical Fiction

Release Date: July, 2026

Spies Infiltrate Havensbooke Hall. . .and Another Mystery Adventure Begins

Stephen Blake’s life goal is to protect people, especially those closest to him, but war in 1914 England doesn’t follow any rules. When Blake is informed that a noted German spy may have taken up residence at Havensbrooke Hall—his cousin Lord Astley’s estate, which is being used as a convalescent war hospital—he’s sent there to uncover the plot.

Lady Grace Astley has become a force to be reckoned with while Frederick is out on the war front. With Havensbrooke as a hospital, she’s shocked by the devastation the war is bringing home; but ever hopeful, she is determined to help these weary soldiers find some relief. However, not everything is as it seems inside Havensbrooke. Precious items soon start disappearing. . .and not just the kind that are worth a lot of money.

Through a case of mistaken identity, a comedy of errors, a kidnapping, and a race for time within the crumbling subterranean passageways beneath Havensbrooke, can Blake and Gracie work together to root out the criminals, thieves, and spies before time runs out?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

The Bachelor Spy, a Christian Historical Fiction by Pepper Basham is the fifth book in the Freddie and Grace Mysteries. Set in 1914 this book features Lady Grace Astley whose home has been turned into a convalescent hospital and her husband’s cousin Stephen Blake. This book is the fifth in the series and does contain spoilers  for the previous books in the series. I highly recommend that you read the previous books in the series prior to reading this book.

 

What I think about this book:

It is always a pleasure to read a Basham book. In this book we are dropped into the Lusitania with Stephen Blake on the night of its sinking. Stephen faces the unimaginable when his friend is a traitor who then tries to frame him. It is only the sinking that saves his life.  Things only get more interesting from there when the reader is taken to Havensbrooke where Grace and Freddie’s home has been turned into a hospital while Freddie has been sent to the front. With an influx of patients things have started disappearing from Havensbrooke.  When Blake shows up injured Grace knows that there is more going on than she originally thought. It was wonderful to catch up with Grace and step into 1914 England. Basham has a gift for transporting her readers into her stories, between the mysteries, spies and a surprise pregnancy. I enjoyed every page of this book and can’t wait to see what adventures she takes her readers on next!

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroads and Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

 

Excerpt

Prologue

May 7, 1915

Stephen Blake had been trailing the presumed spy most of the voyage—first to secure his target, and then. . .to strike. Every clue pointed to the fact that the gregarious businessman Donald Leaman was none other than Albert Stein, a German informant ferrying English war secrets straight to the fatherland.

Unfortunately, every opportunity Blake had found to confront the man had been thwarted: too many watchful eyes, too much pomp and luxury for a clean cornering. With the Lusitania’s transatlantic voyage ending in less than a day, his time to complete this mission was slipping away.

Worse, he couldn’t shake the feeling he was being followed himself. Only a limited few knew of his operation to uncover a ghostlike informant who’d used their “ordinary” position to gain extraordinary intelligence—from transfer stations, casualty clearing posts, even a general’s bunker at the Western Front. The spy had proven madden-ingly elusive, slipping through every trap British intelligence laid

with almost theatrical flair.

But what did they know? Stein was the spy’s last contact. And Blake was tasked with finding out what he knew.

The Lusitania was hardly Blake’s first ship, but certainly it was the grandest. It felt as though Claridge’s, the famous hotel in London, had taken to the sea, complete with its extravagant marble floors and its crystal chandeliers, with champagne in the air and ease all around. Just after luncheon, Stein had excused himself early and started down the grand staircase toward the lower decks. An odd choice for a first-class passenger, especially so near the end of the trip and with

his companions urging him to remain for cards.

So, of course, Blake followed.

Deck by deck, corridor by corridor, until the music and chatter faded into the deep measured thrum of the engines.

Occasionally, Stein cast a look behind him but never appeared concerned enough to stop his descent. This was certainly a planned meeting.

The elegance of the upper floors gave way to simpler decor, narrower corridors. Second-class accommodations. Stein stopped before a cabin door. His knock held an unnatural rhythm—three quick raps, a pause, two more. After only a beat of silence, a murmur from within responded.

Stein’s immediate whispered answer? “Octavia.” A code word, no doubt.

The door opened. Stein slipped inside, but before the door could click shut, Blake rushed soundlessly forward and caught it with his fingertips.

Perfect.

He released a self-satisfied grin and then pressed himself against the corridor wall, listening through the crack over the hum of the ship’s engine.

The cabin was small—voices carried easily in the confined space—and the faint scent of cigarette smoke drifted through the opening. “You’re late.” A man’s voice, crisp and impatient. Something about the cadence nagged at Blake’s memory, but he couldn’t place

1. English, certainly. Kentish?

Blake frowned. He could overpower Stein easily—the man was more socialite than combatant, the sort who’d probably never thrown a proper punch in his life. But this unknown fellow, clearly in charge and confident enough to smoke a cigarette while conducting treason? That suggested either experience or exceptional stupidity. Blake hoped for the latter but suspected the former.

“It was difficult to get away without raising suspicion,” Stein replied, his accent thickening into full German. “Blake is on this ship.”

Blake’s pulse quickened. So Stein knew he was being followed. “I know.” The other man’s tone didn’t waver. A long exhale

followed, as if he were breathing out smoke. “We’ve been watching him to ensure he didn’t wreck things.”

We? Who?

Blake’s mind raced through the passenger manifest, through his team members, through every face he’d seen on this voyage. That voice. . .

“But with that in mind, we need to move quickly,” the Englishman continued. “What do you have for me?”

A rustle of papers. “The Midnight Angel’s next assignment. She’s to embed herself in a convalescent hospital—but not in France this time. There is too much interest in her there.”

Blake’s breath caught. She was called the Midnight Angel? The informant they’d been hunting for months. And she was a woman.

“Italy, then?”

“Nein,” Stein answered simply. “A place much closer to your front door, mein Herr.”

England? A convalescent hospital in England?

“Perfect,” the Englishman murmured. “Wounded officers talk too freely around nurses they think are angels of mercy.”

“Clever, no?” Stein’s voice held a note of pride. “No one suspects the nurses. They’re invisible, really. Moving between stations, tending to generals and privates alike. She’s already proven invaluable.”

“This is excellent information, Stein.” A pause. “And you’ve given

it so freely. Too freely, I’m afraid.”

Blake froze. He knew that tone—the shift from curiosity to finality. The Englishman was finished with Stein. The German had served his purpose, been found wanting, and now. . .had become a liability.

He couldn’t wait any longer. Stein had to be taken alive—had to be questioned, catalogued, and wrung dry of every detail about the Midnight Angel and her network before—

He drew his revolver and pushed through the door. The scene materialized in a horrifying instant.

Stein stood near a narrow desk, documents scattered before him. And holding a gun already drawn, already aimed at Stein’s head with casual confidence, stood Evan Montgomery.

Blake’s breath squeezed closed in his throat.

Montgomery? His colleague. His friend. The man he’d trained with in Scotland, shared terrible army rations with in the trenches, trusted with his life on half a dozen missions across the Channel. The man whose sister Blake had been half in love with for six months but was far too professional to mention. The man who was, apparently, a traitor.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, July 30

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 30

Melissa’s Bookshelf, July 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 31

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 31

Texas Book-aholic, August 1

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 1

For Him and My Family, August 2

Book Holds and Jello Molds, August 2

Sylvan Musings, August 3

Jodie Wolfe, August 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 3

Where Faith and Books Meet, August 4

Connie’s History Classroom , August 4

Simple Harvest Reads, August 5 (Guest Review from Donna)

The Vine and The Branch, August 5

Stories By Gina, August 6 (Author Interview)

Betti Mace, August 6

Mary Hake, August 6

Min Reads and Reviews, August 7

Wishful Endings, August 7

She Lives To Read, August 8

Blossoms and Blessings, August 8

Labor Not in Vain , August 9

Holly’s Book Corner, August 9

Lily’s Corner, August 10

Cover Lover Book Review, August 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 11

Pause for Tales, August 11

The Sacred Line, August 12

Devoted to Hope, August 12

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, August 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card and a print copy of the book!!

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

https://gleam.io/ovQ5J/the-bachelor-spy-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Husband Tree

Author: Mary Connealy

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 21, 2026

From bestselling author Mary Connealy comes a spirited Western romance filled with danger, determination, and unexpected love—a tale of a fierce widow rancher, a hardworking cowboy, and the family that brings them together. Perfect for fans of historical romance and strong heroines.

Belle Tanner has buried three husbands under the “Husband Tree” and managed her Montana ranch alone while raising four daughters. When she needs help with a dangerous cattle drive, she hires Silas Harden—a man who actually knows his way around cattle and horses. Unlike her previous husbands, Silas isn’t afraid of hard work, but Belle’s not about to let another man take charge of her ranch or her heart.

Silas never planned on falling for a widow with four daughters, especially one as independent as Belle. But as they face treacherous mountain passes, wolf attacks, and winter storms together, he discovers that what he thought was just another job might be his chance at a real family—if he can convince Belle to trust in love one more time.

With winter closing in and dangers mounting, Belle and Silas must learn to work together and trust in God’s plan. But can Belle let go of her iron control and let love lead? And can Silas prove he’s different from the husbands who came before?

A heartwarming story of faith, family, and finding love in the rugged Montana Territory.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Donna

What I think you should know:

The Husband Tree by Mary Connealy is the fifth book in the Petticoats and Cowboys series. Set in 1876 Montana Territory this book features Belle Tanner and her four daughters.  We are also introduced to Silas Harden when he signs on to help Belle drive her cattle to sell before winter sets in. This book can be read as a standalone, but would be best enjoyed as part of the series.

 

What you might need to know about this book:

Belle has lost three husbands.

This story does briefly feature a white woman who has been living with the Flathead tribe and has been kidnapped.

 

What I think about this book:

When you mix a man who jumped out of a window to get out of a wedding  with a widow who says “It was great to be a widow. Now if she could just stay one!” you are definitely in for an adventure.  Belle is definitely Montana tough and what she calls the worst judgement in men.  Belle has taught her daughters that husbands aren’t worth having. Silas has his work cut out for him both in driving the cattle and in getting the trust of Belle and her daughters. I loved reading about the tenacity of Belle and her daughters as they worked to survive in the Montana wilderness and on the cattle drive. It was interesting to see the characters evolve as the story unfolded . I loved this book and can’t wait to read what is in store for us in book six.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

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 75 books and novellas. She has over a million and a half books in print.

Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or find her at Petticoats & Pistols!

 

More from Mary

The Husband Tree remains the book I am asked about the most when I talk to readers.

Or, if I get asked, which is your favorite character…someone inevitably says Belle Tanner.

There’s something about that woman.

The title of the book is based on the tree where she’s buried three worthless husbands. After Anthony died falling off the roof…where he was hiding from work as usual, she’s tossing dirt on his face while vowing to God and her children to never marry again.

She’s taught her girls to work hard at her side, but her main lesson is to teach them to avoid men at all costs. A warning that doesn’t survive, but not for lack of effort on Belle’s part.

She’s the meanest good guy I’ve ever written, the most enduring ‘fiesty lady rancher’. Yet somehow, her REASONS for being mean are so well tuned, that she gets away with being a very hostile-to-men woman.

Not that I haven’t written plenty of feisty lady ranchers…in fact I love the type so much I have to fight putting one as the heroine in every book. But Belle is in a league of her own.

Silas Harden is also NOT interested in a woman. He’s been burned bad TWICE by women. One woman a betrayer, another a sneaking liar who stages a ‘compromising situation’ to force a marriage. He’s lost two ranches because of it. He wants a place of his own and he’s not risking letting a woman ruin things for him. It’s cost him too much.

But, much as she hates to admit she needs a man’s help, Belle’s going to lose her herd if she doesn’t get the cattle to market and there’s no one else to help but the wandering cowpoke, Silas.

Belle and her four daughters, including a diaper-wearing baby, need to punch one thousand head of cattle over the roughest trail in the whole world…not that Belle’s familiar with the whole world, but it’s a brutally hard stretch.

Off they go, both bristling, but soon enough they’re working so hard they’re too TIRED to hate each other.

And then here comes love. A man Belle can’t help but respect. A woman Silas can’t help but trust.

If they all survive this drive…both of them might just take a chance again, on love.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 28

Texas Book-aholic, July 29

For Him and My Family, July 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 31

Guild Master, August 1 (Author Interview)

Book Holds and Jello Molds, August 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 2

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 3

She Lives To Read, August 4

Simple Harvest Reads, August 5 (Guest Review from Donna)

Fiction Book Lover, August 6 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 6

Book Looks by Lisa, August 7

Cover Lover Book Review, August 8

Labor Not in Vain, August 9

Holly’s Book Corner, August 10

Giveaway

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

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

https://gleam.io/GRmzP/the-husband-tree-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: A Baby’s Blessing for Boys/A Baby’s Blessing for Girls

Author: Donna Wyland

Genre: Nonfiction/Christian Prayer Book/Child’s Prayer Book

Release Date: November 30, 2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Perfect Gift for new parents, baptisms, and baby dedications. A Baby’s Blessing is a sweet book to guide parents, grandparents, and other caregivers to pray specific blessings over their child. This beautifully illustrated book leads people to pray a powerful prayer over the special children in their lives as they are lifted to God and Holy Spirit to bless and protect them each day.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Donna Wyland is an award-winning author, editor, and coach. Her picture book, Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts, won the 2024 Christian Indie Award, and ‘Twas the Night Before Jesus won the 2025 Illumination Book Award. Both Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts and ‘Twas the Night Before Jesus were Readers’ Choice Award Finalists. Her new nonfiction books, Last Best Year (2025 Golden Scroll Award) and A Guided Gratitude Journal are also available on Amazon. Donna resides with her husband in Southwest Florida.

 

More from Donna

Oh, the wonderful power of prayer! Recent years have taught us how much we need God to intervene to protect and save, guide and help us raise our children and grandchildren to be loving, courageous children of God. In this vein, God inspired me to write these precious books of prayer to pray over the special child/children in your life. With the opportunity to personalize the book by inscribing the baby’s name, birthdate, height, and weight, along with a photo; this book will become a keepsake for every parent who receives it. Give the gift of prayer to the new parents in your life and watch their child grow in grace and favor with God as they are prayed over each day.

Interview with the Author

1)What inspired this book?

I spent a lot of time helping to raise my grandson when he was very young and my daughter was at work. He is fifteen years old today, but he often says “Mimi helped raise me,” which deeply blesses my heart.

            As I was playing with him, driving him around, searching for creative ways to invent games for us to play, I would often pray ‘breath prayers’ – short, silent prayers – asking God to raise him up as His own.

            One day, God put it on my heart to write those breath prayers in book form to help new parents, grandparents, and other caregivers pray over their special children too. From protection to wisdom to healing and more, Baby’s Blessings Books for Boys and Girls help adults lift prayers for their children to God, confident He hears and answers them.

2)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

I have many favorite Bible verses, but the one that keeps coming to mind these days is Hebrews 10:23: “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” During the past six years we have all needed an increase in hope, faith, and trust, believing God has a plan. He is intervening, and He will bring good from the confusion and pain. That verse calms my heart and fills me with renewed hope each time I read or recite it.

3)What would you like your readers to get out of this book?

My hope is that readers are blessed by the prayer and grow in confidence as they pray it over their child(ren). God is faithful to protect and guide. With a book like this, parents, grandparents, and caregivers have a map of sorts to lead them as they pray over every aspect of their child’s life. The books make excellent gifts as well since there is space at the beginning to include the baby’s name, birthdate, weight, height, and even a photo.

4)What is your vacation spot?

This is a difficult question to answer as I love to travel. Last June my daughter and I were part of an Art & Faith Creative women’s trip to Bellagio, Italy for 10 fabulous days of journaling, painting, touring, eating, and enjoying what may be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Lake Como is not to be missed. If you can get there, I highly recommend you go, and be sure to order the lemon ravioli. You’ll never be the same.

5)What is your most well-loved and well-used house appliance?

I hate to admit it, but I’m not much of a cook. My mother was an amazing cook, and my daughter is too. They could both open a pantry and pull various spices and food from it and present you with a gourmet meal in an hour or two. I am not that fortunate. When God passed out the ‘gift of cooking,’ I think I heard ‘booking’ and got into a different lane to receive a double dose of passion for reading and writing. I guess what they say is true. We cannot have (or do) it all. My husband is an understanding man. LOL

Blog Stops

Labor Not in Vain, August 1

Simple Harvest Reads, August 2 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, August 3 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, August 4 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 4

Girls in White Dresses, August 5

Texas Book-aholic, August 6

Fiction Book Lover, August 7 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, August 8 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 9 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 10

Cover Lover Book Review, August 11

Books Less Travelled, August 12 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 13 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, August 14 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, August 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card a copy of one of the books!!

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

https://gleam.io/GCcrP/a-babys-blessing-for-boysa-babys-blessing-for-girls-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Worlds Collide

Author: Clint Hall

Genre: Adult Science Fiction

Release Date: July 14, 2026

Five worlds at war. Only one can survive.

Ten thousand years ago, five cosmic beings―a dragon, a phoenix, a serpent, a lion, and a wolf―set their worlds on an inevitable collision course. Each civilization was given one command: destroy the rival worlds, or crash into them and die.

As the planets draw near to each other, the moment of final reckoning is at hand. In a galaxy filled with starfighters and superweapons, magic and manipulation, planet-killing devices and mechanized legions, five heroes must defend their homeworlds against overwhelming odds.

But when prophecy and destiny collide, a far greater power begins to stir―one that challenges everything they’ve been told.

Oaths will be broken. Chains will be shattered. Champions will rise. The fate of the universe hangs in the balance as these heroes discover whether any world deserves to survive.

The War of the Creators has begun.

Perfect for fans of Red Rising, The Expanse, and mythic sci-fi epics, Worlds Collide blends high-stakes interplanetary war with a legendary, fate-driven mystery―where the final battle may not be what it seems.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Guest Review from Susan

Outstanding beginning to what promises to be an epic space fantasy story that will rival some of the great space allegories. With heroes and villains, good versus evil, lovers of fantasy literature will appreciate the cinematic descriptions of the setting and the battles. While I have read and enjoyed fantasy literature, my repertoire of science fiction is much shorter. Yet my imagination was immediately captivated by the characters and the setting. The author has created a universe in which five different worlds are on a course of destruction, set by their creators 10,000 years ago. With an incredibly diverse cast of characters from varied cultures, one wonders who will survive the countdown to the final battle.

Mr. Hall has penned sharply-etched and relatable characters with strong fears and beliefs that guide their actions. Each main character questions core beliefs of their society as they face different trials. The author peels back the layers of the inner turmoil the characters confront as they choose to seek justice and light amidst the darkness of war. He grapples with strong themes of purpose, truth and sacrifice.

A trait of a great author is that they have a theme that speaks to the reader, one that is compelling and applicable to real life. In my humble opinion, I believe Mr. Hall has raised the bar of excellence for science fiction. I found the book riveting, with a strong theme of sacrifice amidst despair and darkness. Without giving away the plot, here are a couple of quotes that spoke to me:
“Your creator calls to you.”
“If there is hope in a hopeless race, there can be peace in a galaxy at war.”

The ending has wonderful hints of foreshadowing, hints of hope that has me eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Clint Hall is an author, speaker, and podcaster who has been writing stories since middle school, where he spent most of his time in English class creating comic books. (Fortunately, his teacher not only allowed it, she bought every issue.)

Known for stories of hope, wonder, and adventure, Clint is the author of Steal Fire from the Gods and Echo Nova. You can find him hosting panels at conventions, online at ClintHall.com, or at The Experience: Conversations with Creatives podcast, available on all major platforms.

 

More from Clint

The battle lines we cannot see

By Clint Hall

The enemy seeks to divide us. And while there are wars to be fought, the battle lines often aren’t in the places that we think.

This is not the reason I started writing Worlds Collide. But in the more than ten years that I’ve been working on this trilogy, it has become the reason this story is the thing I most want to say to the world.

I started writing Worlds Collide because of a few ideas that came together at once. I had been reading a book that discussed five types of heroes: the selfless hero, the hero with a code, the charming hero, the cunning hero, and the sympathetic hero. I challenged myself to write a story featuring each type of hero as a way of better learning the archetypes.

Around the same time, I came up with the concept of different worlds being set on a collision course by their respective creators—cosmic beings in the forms of dragon, phoenix, lion, serpent, and wolf—as a “contest of the gods.” This idea came out of nowhere. At the time, I was working on a completely different story (that still has not been published). That evening, I took my wife on a walk, told her the concept, and she said, “This has to be the next thing you write.”

But as I wrote the story, these characters from different worlds started coming together in interesting ways. Each believed that they were doing the things they had to do to survive, to protect their own kind. The distance between them and the rival planets served to create a sense of “otherness” about the people inhabiting those worlds. It was easier to hate them when they were so far removed. And like most (if not all) instances of hate, it was rooted in fear.

The danger of division is a central theme in scripture. In Matthew 12:25 and Mark 3:24-25, Jesus states, “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” The Greek word for the devil, diabolos, is derived from a verb that means “to throw apart” or “to scatter,” directly identifying his nature as a divider.

We see this division every day, much of it sparked by what we read online. Humans are designed to be in connection with each other, so the most deceptive way to subvert that innate design is to present the façade of increased connection that is actually voluntary isolation and polarization.

I’m not against the internet and social media, but it must be stated that the technologies that were supposed to bring more people together have achieved the opposite. They constantly present us with groups of people who—at a distance—appear to be dangerously opposed to everything we hold dear.

When we engage with so much of this content, we believe we’re learning more about people. But in truth, we’re only presented with algorithmically curated experiences that are incented to spark fear and outrage, emotions that lead to clicking and engaging. We are told that they are the enemy, that they are to blame, and that they will destroy our way of life. Then we’re told, “click here to read more.”

I wasn’t raised in church; I came to my faith during my teenage years. As a result, and due to a handful of other personal experiences, I’m comfortable in environments where I’m surrounded by people whose beliefs are very different than my own.

But here’s what has surprised me: I never feel like I need to hide my faith in these situations. When I engage such people in conversations from a place of love, respect, and genuine curiosity, they are almost always receptive. We find common ground. How could we not? Regardless of their beliefs, these people are created in the image of God, just like me. Through these interactions, I have created real friendships with people that might have never walked through the doors of my church (but that doesn’t mean I won’t try).

I’m not saying that I’m without my biases. I’m far from perfect. But when I manage to push past my perceived boundaries, I’m often amazed at what I discover on the other side.

As believers, we affirm that every person is made in the image of God. But we must ask ourselves—do our words, our posts, and our attitudes reflect that truth? Or have we, too, begun to see those who are unlike us primarily as enemies?

That tension is at the heart of Worlds Collide. As these characters begin to interact, they discover aspects of each other that they never would have expected. They start asking questions they were never meant to ask, and the answers challenge everything they have ever known.

We may not be on warring planets, but we are constantly being told where the battle lines are in our world, and that anybody on the other side of those lines is our enemy.

And when that happens, will we accept that as the truth? Or will we dare to step across those lines in love, courage, and faith to reach out our hands, as the Savior did for us?

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 29

Books, Books, & More Books, July 30 (Spotlight)

Texas Book-aholic, July 31

Artistic Nobody, August 1 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 1

Simple Harvest Reads, August 2 (Guest Review from Susan)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 3 (Spotlight)

The Lofty Pages, August 4

Guild Master, August 5 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, August 6

Fiction Book Lover, August 7 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, August 8 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 8

Vicky Sluiter, August 9 (Spotlight)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 10

For the Love of Literature, August 11 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Clint is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and signed hardcover copy of the book!!

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

https://gleam.io/vmT2g/worlds-collide-celebration-tour-giveaway

Excerpt from the Book

Powerful forces hide the most dangerous felons.

Successful private criminal investigator Jake Granite is driven by deep torment he can never escape. One miscalculation permanently ruined his life—a secret he’ll take to the grave. Hardened and jaded, he lives to take out every criminal he possibly can.

Tarina Gloss is a CA artist who creates elaborate sculptures and enthralling paintings, secretly influenced by synesthesia. When a notorious criminal kidnaps her, Jake catches him in the act and instantly intervenes. But Jake and Tarina are outnumbered and unprepared. They are forced to instantly trust each other and combine their skills to survive. They use both Jake’s street smarts and Tarina’s spiritual gifts to eventually escape. In the process, they learn important lessons from each other.

Now that they are home safely, Jake is more determined than ever to take down every criminal he possibly can—especially those targeting the most vulnerable. But even working with his private investigation team and law enforcement task forces, it’s been impossible. They always arrive at the scene of the crime too late. It’s infuriating. Who is at the top and who are the informers?

Tarina has commissions for sculptures and paintings but no time to work on them. After unexpectedly being pulled into Jake’s work, she is eager to save every victim she can. But she’s not equipped or experienced in this type of work. What can she possibly do to help?

Jake and Tarina discover a new partner wants to join them. He’s the Finder, and no felon can hide from him. The only problem is that the Finder only gives them confusing clues—or sets them up to stumble on the criminals in action. He does things in unpredictable ways each time, so they never know what to expect.

Soon they are in over their heads. Tragedies happen, leaving them confused. Can they handle working with the Finder? Most of all, can they trust him?

Want to know more about the book?

Powerful forces hide the most dangerous felons.

Jake Granite is more determined than ever to take down every criminal he possibly can—especially those targeting the most vulnerable. But even working with his private investigation team and law enforcement task forces, it’s been impossible. They always arrive at the scene of the crime too late. It’s infuriating. Who is at the top and who are the informers?

Tarina Gloss has commissions for sculptures and paintings but no time to work on them. After unexpectedly being pulled into Jake’s work, she is eager to save every victim she can. But she’s not equipped or experienced in this type of work. What can she possibly do to help?

Jake and Tarina discover a new partner wants to join them. He’s the Finder, and no felon can hide from him. The only problem is that the Finder only gives them confusing clues—or sets them up to stumble on the criminals in action. He does things in unpredictable ways each time, so they never know what to expect.

Soon they are in over their heads. Tragedies happen, leaving them confused. Can they handle working with the Finder? Most of all, can they trust him?

Get your copy here!

About the Author

LR Strong is a writer, editor, singer, songwriter, photographer, and people watcher. Her life is colored by synesthesia, and she views others through the lens of spiritual gifts. She’s equally creative and cerebral—her first career was computer programming. Her deepest loves are Jesus, family, friends, and her three delightful rescue cats. And eating dark chocolate while reading a riveting book. Find out more about her at LRStrong.com.

Scavenger Hunt Word One: School

Find the other stops here!

Giveaway!

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway for your chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card!

https://www.celebratelit.com/2026-back-to-school-scavenger-hunt/

About the Book

Book: Blue Jean Bayou

Author: Janis Jakes

Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Romance

Release Date: June 12, 2026

After Jenna’s father dies, she travels to his cabin in the Texas Piney Woods to oversee the remodeling and ready the property for sale. She’s surprised when the contractor is a childhood crush – now a handsome man with a heart of gold.

Their friendship reignites, bringing the possibility of more…but at a price. Jenna, a business owner, loves the bustling streets of Manhattan. Creed, a military veteran with a hero’s past, finds refuge in small-town living.

When Jenna learns her father led a secret life, her world turns upside down, and she suspects Creed knows more than he’s telling.

As the truth about her father emerges, Jenna faces the secrets hidden in her own heart and must choose: a life of high heels and high rises or a meandering bayou with the man she now loves.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Janis Jakes is an author of multiple contemporary and historical inspirational romances with an emphasis on courageous men, strong women, Texas sunsets, and happily ever after.

 

 

 

 

 

More from Janis

Texas is known for its vastness and cities like Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas. While those cities are great, there’s something about a small Texas town that stirs the heart and evokes a sense of community.

 

When I wrote Blue Jean Bayou, I wanted Shelton’s Cove to be one of those small towns that every reader would want to visit—where they’d find hundred-year-old farmhouses, wooden bridges that clack under the weight of vehicles, country diners where chicken-fried steak is standard fare, and salt-of-the-earth folks who look after their neighbors.

 

I also wanted characters who embody the Texas nature I know so well: brave men with strong faith and a staunch work ethic, and women who face life’s unexpected twists and turns with strength.

 

My ultimate hope is that readers get a true sense of the town and enjoy meeting the characters who call Shelton’s Cove home. This is Book 1 of the three-book Small Town Texas Series.

 

A little backstory nugget: The café in Blue Jean Bayou is named Myrtle’s Café after my late grandmother. She could cook like no one’s business—her meringue is legendary!—so it only seemed right to give the café her namesake.

Interview with the Author

1. What does success as an author look like to you?

As an author, success means bringing characters and stories to life in a way that is relatable and encourages readers to persevere in the faith. If I’ve honored God in that way, then I feel successful.

2. Which character did you connect to best in this book?

I related most to Jenna—a woman who often hides herself in her work without knowing (or even caring to examine) why. It’s easy to feel as if you’re doing something productive and even good when you stay busy, as if everything is fine, rather than address the hard issues in your past. It was cathartic for me to take the discovery journey with Jenna. God doesn’t bring you into a situation without walking you through it.

3. Which part of the book was the most difficult to write?

The most difficult part of the book was writing about the more subtle, but still raw, edges of Creed’s PTSD. I wanted readers to see him as someone strong and brave, facing the past through the lens of his faith, while also showing the vulnerability of someone who’d seen firsthand the tragedy of war and still dealt with the scars.

4. What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?

My favorite Bible passage at this season in my life:

Psalm 121:1-2 (NKJV):

I will lift up my eyes to the hills—
From whence comes my help?
My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth.

It’s a reminder that I serve a great and mighty Creator who still hears me when I call to Him—omnipresent and omniscient yet ever so personal and always aware of my needful state.

5. If you could have one book or piece of art or music on a deserted island, what would it be and why?

One of our four sons joined the military, and before he left for Basic Training, my husband noticed he’d packed three Bibles in his suitcase. Since it was a stressful time for a young man barely out of high school, we assumed he wanted to be extra sure He had the Lord with him. Admittedly, we had a chuckle at his expense. As it turned out, he said it was so he could share with others. He knew the same thing I know. The Word of God sustains you like nothing else. That’s why the obvious answer is also the right answer. If I could have but one book, it would be my Bible.

Blog Stops

Devoted Steps, July 27

Simple Harvest Reads, July 28 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, July 29 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 30

Guild Master, July 31 (Author Interview)

She Lives To Read, August 1

Fiction Book Lover, August 2 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, August 3

The Bookish Ledger, August 4 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, August 5

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, August 6 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, August 7 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, August 7

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 8

Stories By Gina, August 9 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Janis is giving away the grand prize of a $75 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/N6cAK/blue-jean-bayou-celebration-tour-giveaway