books – Sherida Stewart

MAY NEWSLETTER-Springtime joy when “all things become new” plus a book review and a refreshing treat!

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

~~2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)

New beginnings with the flowers of May!

Don’t you enjoy the “newness” of spring with the abundance of flowers and baby creatures showing up? Here in Arizona, our desert climate has flowering bushes, trees, and cacti which add sparkle to our landscape, plus we see little quail chicks scrambling to follow their parents across our yard. This year, we saw a gosling at a local pond. Treasures to enjoy, for sure. Seeing the “new things” around this season also reminds us that as Christians we are blessed to know WE are “new creatures” because of our Lord, as the Scripture above tells us.

THE SHERIFF’S SECRET PAST by Tina Radcliffe

BOOK REVIEW

This month, I’m sharing my review of Tina Radcliffe’s upcoming release, The Sheriff’s Secret Past, a story of new beginnings for both the hero and heroine…perfect for springtime renewal. This book is the start of a new small town inspirational romance series!

Love this story…the first in the new Aspen Creek Cowboys series! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’m ready to move to Aspen Creek, Colorado! Small town romances are my favorite. I love the close communities of folks who support each other, the charming main streets with cute shops and fun foodie places to explore….plus the friendly neighbors who encourage others with their faith-filled wisdom. And, of course, romance readers want the sweet developing relationships between protective heroes and the strong women they love.

When Emily Taylor returns to town and buys the local newspaper where she interned one summer, she didn’t expect some of the challenging issues confronting her dream of running the small press. Sheriff Chase Everett, a former acquaintance, is surprised to find Emily has come back. With an upcoming election to retain his office on the horizon, he is worried that an unfortunate incident in his past might be revealed. This could also jeopardize, his planned adoption of his orphaned niece, Sarah.

The developing relationship between the couple is sweet…and faith-filled. I liked the compassion expressed by the characters and the forgiveness displayed. The precious child, Sarah, and the cute puppy, Byron, added to the enjoyment of this romance. The twist at the end was a surprise….and the resolution is just right.

Author Tina Radcliffe writes sweet romances with great characters in settings where you want to spend more time. I’m so excited the Aspen Creek Cowboys series will continue as I want to know more about the various folks of this small community….and sample more treats as featured in the story. Salted caramel brownies, lemon cream cheese icebox cake, sprinkles on ice cream? Yes, please! And, yes, I highly recommend The Sheriff’s Secret Past!

Favorite quotes:

“Sometimes good things happen when you least expect it and when you think you can’t possibly manage one more thing in your life. And sometimes, they end up being the missing piece in your life.”

“Gram promised me she’d be waiting for me at the entrance to the pearly gates.”

*I received an advance copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. This is my honest opinion.

To order The Sheriff’s Secret Past and to find out more about this new Love Inspired series featuring the town of Aspen Creek, Colorado, check out Tina Radcliffe’s website via the link below. (Pro tip: Be sure to check out the Soul Sisters’ recipe link on the website.)

TINA RADCLIFFE

This book releases May 26, 2026. I highly recommend this uplifting story of new beginnings! A great springtime read!

TEATIME TREAT

THE SHERIFF’S SECRET PAST and ice cream with plenty of sprinkles

Today I’m serving ice cream with a double scoop of sprinkles….just like Sarah, the young girl in the story, likes as a special treat. Yes, this is a perfect springtime refreshment to enjoy on the patio with a good book.

Thank you for joining me for my teatime review and a peek at the new blossoms in my desert yard. I’ll add a few more photos below. Please let me know (in the comment section at the bottom of this post) what new beginnings you are enjoying.

Oh, and here is a photo of my sparkling new stickers featuring a favorite Bible verse and a treasured necklace my mother left to me. I send up Mother’s Day thoughts and appreciation to my mom, who lives eternally in heaven and in my heart.

I hope your May is filled with the joy of new creations you see in nature and in the world.

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

Sparkling new stickers with a favorite Bible verse!

SOME ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF SPRINGTIME IN MY DESERT AREA

APRIL NEWSLETTER-an adventure in Canyonlands National Park, a teatime treat, and a book review

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

~~Psalm 19:14 (KJV)

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Welcome to my delayed April newsletter celebrating Easter….the season of celebrating our new life because of our Savior, Christ the Lord! I hope your Easter was blessed in many ways and you are rejoicing in the arrival of spring, the season of new beginnings.

TO FIND WHERE SHE BELONGS by Robin Lee Hatcher with blueberry scones and lemon tea

MY REVIEW OF TO FIND WHERE SHE BELONGS BY ROBIN LEE HATCHER

A sweet love story set amid stunning scenery! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

To Find Where She Belongs is the fifth book in The British Are Coming series. I’ve read and enjoyed them all, but this one may be the best because hero William Overstreet finally gets his story and finds love. He’s a moral, kind, and faith-filled man who takes his responsibilities seriously. He manages his cattle ranch, Eden’s Gate, with dedication…to his employees, to his neighbors, and with his livestock, often doing the necessary chores himself alongside his cowboys.

At first, I wasn’t fond of heroine Keely Boyle. She escaped from England and sailed to America to pursue acquaintance Roger Bernhardt, William’s artist friend, who lived on the ranch. But as past situations are revealed, I began to understand there were reasons for her actions, even if she wasn’t forthcoming about everything. I admired her work ethic and her courage fight for a new life.

The relationship between William and Keely slowly evolves with a hint of the Cinderella story. She’s destitute and he’s wealthy. At times it seems their worlds are too different, but love finds a way…with plenty of forgiveness and understanding….as the couple works together facing evil actions which threaten the ranch they both cherish.

I was pleased to find this book is part of the Christian Fiction Readers Challenge 2026. Since I’ve enjoyed all the other books I’ve read by Robin Lee Hatcher, I knew I would like this one. And I definitely did! The author’s way of describing the stunning scenery of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming makes you feel you are in the mountains and valleys of this gorgeous area.

I highly recommend To Find Where She Belongs to those who prefer sweet historical romances with engaging characters and threads of faith.

Favorite quote: “Discernment is a gift, William. Too often people confuse discernment with judgment, but they are not the same. All I can say is, listen to the Spirit.”

To find out more about the author, check her website at http://www.robinleehatcher.com.

TEATIME TREATS

For a perfect springtime treat, I’m serving lemon blueberry scones (as shown in the photo above) from our local farmers’ market with lemon tea. I hope you’ll pause for a bit of refreshment while reading my blog.

OUR BACKPACKING ADVENTURE IN CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Along the trail, then up and over the rock ridge

During this month, we spent two nights in the backcountry of Canyonlands National Park in southern Utah in the Needles district of the park. The views are amazing everywhere you look. With our backpacks loaded with extra water for desert hiking, we covered dusty trails and climbed over slick rock ridges. Wildflowers popped up here and there. The nights were so quiet! I’ll include a few of the photos we took along the way.

On the trail with a view of The Needles of Canyonlands National Park

Dropping our backpacks at the backcountry campsite

Bright yellow blossoms along the sandy trail.

Thank you for joining me for an adventure, a book review, and a springtime treat. What do you have planned to enjoy the blessing of spring?

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

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FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER-WOLVES, WILDFLOWERS, AND DONUTS

Let the words of my mouth, and the mediation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. ~~ Psalm 19:14 (KJV)

Welcome to my February newsletter! Today I’m sharing last summer’s encounter with Yellowstone wolves and why there is a connection with the book I’m reviewing this month. Plus, I’m serving our simple Valentine’s Day treat, plus giving you a glimpse of our amazing Arizona wildflower hiking season.

Yellowstone black wolf-probably from the Wapiti Lake Pack

After reading An Echo of Courage, by author, Heidi Ennis, I reflected on an encounter my husband and I had last summer while on a backcountry trail in Yellowstone National Park. After passing some geysers, we came upon a meadow where we saw a group of wolves on the hillside near us. Remembering our wilderness training, we immediately froze, just watching the animals’ activity. They were aware of us, but continued trotting into the forest. Whew!

We hiked further down the trail and stopped for a lunch break a few minutes later. As we ate, we were surprised to see two young wolves heading toward us. They stopped maybe twenty yards from us. They were curious and seemed almost playful as they explored the area. Again, we didn’t move or make any startling noises. We just waited. After ten minutes of watching their frolicking, they turned back to head up the mountain.

This experience changed my opinion of wolves. They are not as frightening as I’d expected. (However, I definitely remain cautious!) So when I learned Heidi Ennis’ new book featured a wolf, I was especially interested. An Echo of Courage is a fascinating story with occasional viewpoints from Essa, a wolf. (At the end of this post, I’ll include the fascinating details about this pack I learned from AI Gemini. I’ll also post the video I took of the wolves on my author Facebook page and Instagram accounts.)

MY REVIEW OF AN ECHO OF COURAGE BY HEIDI ENNIS

A unique and engaging Christian romance book about found family! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In the 1880’s, Swedish immigrant, Pauel Oman, travels with his new friend, Rye, to search for his sister, Johanna. They must travel across the Atlantic Ocean and the North American continent to the Pacific Northwest where Johanna had gone to claim land their father purchased. There are many heart-pounding dangers as the search for Johanna goes through rough pioneer towns and the wild, yet beautiful, terrain of the mountainous Columbia River area. Various complications arise during their journey, but the two friends help each other through the many challenges.

Along the way, Pauel meets Penny, a young woman trapped in a difficult situation. As Pauel protects her and attempts to rescue her, a sweet love develops between them. The theme of found family is expressed so well. The characters are all interesting. I admired them as they encouraged and fought dangers for each other….just like the bonds of family. Also, the theme of overcoming trials and trusting the Lord, even in uncertainty, is strongly expressed.

This is an epic story with a unique voice. The addition of a wolf, Essa, provides an interesting point of view throughout this Christian book. Through her thoughts, Essa gives us insights into the Great Creator. The animal is an important source of companionship, emotional support, and survival for many of the characters. Also an earlier timeline is threaded through the pages featuring Essa and Taymema, a man of the native people of long ago. These additional characters add to an engaging tale.

This is the second book I’ve read by author Heidi Ennis. Both stories are set in the stunning Pacific Northwest. The first was A Father’s Dream, and I just finished the second in the series, An Echo of Courage. Each is definitely a stand alone, but I felt a deeper connection to the characters because I’d read the first one. I highly recommend both books if you’re looking for an engaging historical adventure!

Favorite quote: The Lord sends people and animals, sunsets, mountains, and infinite night skies into the paths of His children just at the time when they need something, when they need to see or feel His presence.

For more information about the author, please check her website. https://www.atthefootofmountains.com

click To buy from amazon

TEATIME TREAT-VALENTINE DONUTS

Today I’m serving the treat we had for Valentine’s Day….my husband’s favorite…chocolate frosted donuts. Simple, but perfect to celebrate the month of love with my sweetheart.

Thank you for joining me for my teatime book review and treats. I’ll end with a few of my trail views from February. This is certainly the perfect month to walk among the Arizona wildflowers. I pray you have a lovely season of God’s blessings along the path. What little sparkles of joy have you treasured this month?

With prayers, Sherida

As mentioned, here is a bit more I discovered about the wolf pack by researching with AI. I uploaded the video I took of Yellowstone wolves to Google’s Gemini. The information received said this pack was most likely the Wapiti Lake Pack which roams in the area where we saw the wolves, particularly using this spot as a rendezvous during the month we viewed them. The information about the black and white coloring of this pack fits the description of the wolves we saw. I was amazed to see a white wolf in the distance. Historically, the Wapiti Lake Pack had been led by a white alpha female. Her genetic mix carries on today, as we saw. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us….a blessing to see His creations in this unique setting.

DECEMBER NEWSLETTER-THE LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS-Birthday cake, book review, and holiday scones

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

~~John 8:12 (KJV)

FAMILY TRADITIONS-BIRTHDAY CAKE FOR JESUS

As we prepare our celebrations of Jesus’ birth, I imagine we’re all planning the decorations, gifts, and foods for a joyous holiday. Our family has many Christmas traditions which I treasure. A special cake is central to our festivities because we’re reminded of the “reason for the season.” Our grandchildren now participate in decorating Jesus’ birthday cake.

Jesus’ birthday cake decorated by our youngest grandchildren last year.

And as Christians, our hearts are preparing for the faith, hope, and love of the season. Our hearts are filled with gratefulness for our Savior. We live in JOY because we will someday be standing in His LIGHT and be greeted with His LOVING EMBRACE.

BOOK REVIEW–WISHING FOR MISTLETOE by Robin Lee Hatcher

I just finished reading Wishing for Mistletoe, a charming inspirational romance story. Author Robin Lee Hatcher always writes such heart-touching books. This one is perfect for your Christmas reading list. Plus there is a featured cupcake shop on the island! (As a reader of my blog, you know I love the mention of treats!) My five-star review is below.

A delightful Christmas-filled romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I completely enjoyed this book which is filled with the spirit of Christmas….warm holiday festivities, new beginnings, and sharing faith with friends.

In an attempt to break through writer’s block, author Ariel Highbridge commits to spending the winter season on ice-bound Sanctuary Island in Lake Huron. Her temporary neighbor, widower Tom Fuller, and his daughter become instrumental in helping her find peace with the isolated life in the community.

And what a fun time to enjoy this charming small town! SNOW, preparations for a Christmas festival, a “right up Ariel’s alley” children’s holiday writing contest, and a yummy cupcake shop. Author Robin Lee Hatcher writes such a sweet “new beginnings” romance developing between Ariel and Tom, despite a few bumps long the way.

For a story filled with the warm feelings of Christmas, I highly recommend Wishing for Mistletoe. You will delight in the preparations for the holiday with gatherings of friends, childlike anticipation, plus a hopeful and loving relationship developing. The conclusion is absolutely charming.

Favorite quote: “For food in a world where many walk in hunger; for faith where many walk in fear; for friends in a world where many walk alone, we give You thanks, O Lord. Amen.”

Click the button below to buy Wishing for Mistletoe from Amazon. You may also want to check out Robin’s webpage at: http://www.RobinLeeHatcher.com.

To purchase from Amazon

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TEATIME TREAT-Cranberry Orange scones

Cranberry Orange scones with Christmas Eve tea.

Today I’m serving seasonally appropriate cranberry and orange scones with a delightful Stash Christmas Eve tea, a spiced spearmint blend flavored with cinnamon and orange. The photo includes a Santa painted by my mother who loved all things Christmas…but especially this time of giving to others in Christian service.

Nativity my dad created. Jesus is the Light of the world.

THANK YOU FOR STOPPING BY MY BLOG TODAY FOR TEA AND SCONES. I PRAY YOUR CHRISTMAS IS FILLED WITH LIGHT AS YOU CELEBRATE THE BIRTHDAY OF JESUS CHRIST, OUR LORD AND SAVIOR. MAY YOU BE BLESSED WITH COMFORT AND JOY THIS SEASON AS YOU EXPERIENCE THE PEACE OF GOD’S LOVE.

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER-Yellowstone National Park backpacking, hiking & wildlife (lunch with WOLVES), plus book recommendations and HUCKLEBERRY treats!

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

~~Isaiah 55:12 (KJV)

My husband and I spent a month in Yellowstone National Park this summer. What an experience in God’s glorious creation! We hiked many trails, spent three nights in the backcountry, and viewed various wildlife. But we never expected to have lunch with Yellowstone wolves!

Our wolf encounter: Heading to the trail early for a day of hiking, we climbed a hill to see Grand Prismatic Spring, then on to Fairy Falls and Imperial Geyser.

Continuing on down the forested trail, we came to an open meadow. Is that a wolf?

We stopped. The wolf watched us. Then we saw two others moving along the hillside. Knowing the wolves were aware of us, we waited quietly to see what they would do. After a few moments, they trotted up the hillside away from us. Whew!

We went a bit further down the trail and stopped for lunch. While we were eating, we were surprised to see two wolves…young ones….approach…maybe 20 yards away. They seemed curious. We watched for several minutes as they “played” with a white plastic bag and sniffed around the area. Finally they ambled off across the meadow with occasional glances back at us, then out of our sight, though we did hear howling from the hills. What an interesting experience! (After they left, my husband picked up the bag so animals would not be harmed by eating it.)

This wolf encounter was one of the highlights of our trip. I’ll post the video of the playful wolf on my Facebook page and Instagram reel.

MORE BACKCOUNTRY EXPERIENCES

One of our three backpacking overnights was to Mallard Lake. We actually saw and heard Mallard ducks near our campsite.

My backpack was filled with all the essentials to spend the night in the wild when the temperatures got down to 35° overnight. Our food bags are hung from a pole, my Buff (neckgaitor/bandana) has a map of Yellowstone, and I carry a Swedish cloth from http://www.theadoptshoppe.com with a favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:8. Yes, that is BEAR SPRAY, as recommended when hiking in Yellowstone. (We did see three bears, two from the car and one from a boat, thankfully not on the trail!)

NOW FOR BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS…….

FOR WRITERS AND ASPIRING AUTHORS:

MY REVIEW OF CREATING A WRITING LIFE by Jill Kemerer

Excellent advice with concrete ideas for living as a writer! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In this book, Jill Kemerer offers strategies for writers covering many important topics, including analyzing your current process, determining writing financials, and cultivating the joy of being an author. She writes from experience and defines realistic expectations for aspiring authors. Valuable insights from her successful career give perspective to what is truly involved in savoring a writing life.

Having published one book myself, I found truth in her advice. Since I often need to write during snippets of time, I especially loved her idea of creating a portable office using a backpack containing essential items. Then you’ll be ready to grab your laptop and this bag as you head out the door, prepared to use any spare moments to keep putting words on the “page.”

If you desire a satisfying writing life, this informative book will encourage you along the right path to enjoy your author journey.

Favorite quote: “Give yourself credit for every step that brings you closer to your dreams.”

*I received an e-copy of this book with no requirement to write a positive review. I’m offering my honest opinion.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CHECK OUT THE AUTHOR’S WEBSITE: http://www.JillKemerer.com

AND FOR READERS OF REGENCY HISTORICAL ROMANCE:

MY REVIEW OF THE DUKE’S LAST WORD BY SOPHIE LEIGH FOX

A charming Regency romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I throughly enjoyed this historical romance story set in early 1880’s England. When James Barrow secures a marriage bargain by offering to save an old man’s estate in order to meet the conditions of his inheritance, the delightful and challenging courting of Wilhemina Middleton, a reluctant bride, begins. The characters are intriguing as they work through various issues of their unusual situation with the outcome always uncertain. The details of life during this era were interesting. To see both James and Willa grow from self-absorbed individuals to recognizing their love for each other was heartwarming. A great romance!

Favorite quote: To reveal such honesty without hesitation further spoke of his fine character.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CHECK OUT THE AUTHOR’S WEBSITE: http://www.SophieLeighFox.com If you enjoy tea as I do, you will appreciate Sophie’s tea suggestions. The next book in her series, Vying for a Groom, releases September 23, 2025.

NOW FOR TEATIME TREATS

When visiting Yellowstone, you will find an abundance of Huckleberry treats. I’m featuring the huckleberry scones I enjoyed with Earl Grey tea at the charming Lake Hotel dining room. The hotel is on the National Historic Register.

Scones and tea at the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel

Or perhaps you’d prefer HUCKLEBERRY FUDGE ice cream!

WRITING NEWS

After a bit of a hiatus, I’m plotting and researching the second book in my Turquoise Treasures Romance series….title TBD. This story will feature Olivia and James. I’m a plotter, not a panster, and often filter ideas over morning coffee….even while backpacking in Yellowstone.

Daybreak morning coffee at our backcountry campsite.

Thank you for joining me for my teatime visit to Yellowstone. I’ll add a few more photos of our trip. I hope you are enjoying the start of the autumn season. May God’s glorious creation greet you everyday!

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

PURCHASE HEALING HEARTS

AUGUST NEWSLETTER-THANKFUL FOR FAMILY, AFTERNOON #TEATIME, AND BOOKS TO RECOMMEND

O, give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good; for His mercy endureth for ever.

~~I Chronicles 16:34 (KJV)

The highlight of this summer was gathering with our family (three generations with six grandchildren) for fun activities and treasured special moments. All enjoyed swimming, visiting museums, hiking, adventure rides, Frisbee, panning for gold, playing games, and completing a puzzle together. Meals provided time to catchup with everyone. Jellybeans and s’mores fish crackers were the favorite snacks, plus the peach cobbler dump cake was a winning dessert. We all felt blessed to have this family time in the Colorado mountains.

AFTERNOON TEA IN THE GARDEN

My husband and I went to a heritage center where we had afternoon tea in the garden. The “insects and butterflies” theme was cute.

After selecting hats to wear, we were served butterfly cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches, ants on a log celery, worms in mud pudding, and ladybug cupcakes.

Of course I chose the hat trimmed with flowers and turquoise netting.

And here is my cowboy donning a western look. Yee-haw!

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ROMANTIC COMEDY, ROMANTIC SUSPENSE, HISTORICAL ROMANCE, AND ONE FOR WRITERS

Bernadette
Jennifer Lynn Cary
08/04/2025
Sweet Romantic Comedy
They’re supposedly the small-town girl and the movie star, but who are they really?

In a Killer’s Crosshairs
Rhonda Starnes
08/26/2025
Romantic Suspense
A murderer is on the loose…and nowhere is safe.

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton
Kelly J. Goshorn
08/01/2025
Historical Romance
A Socialite in Disguise Seeks Truth and Justice

And releasing September 3, 2025 for writers and aspiring authors, Creating a Writing Life by Jill Kemerer offers “encouragement and advice for authors and writers.”

Publishers Weekly bestselling author of nearly one million books worldwide, Jill Kemerer shares writing tips, business advice, and encouragement for authors in this inspirational book for writers. Check out her website: www.jillkemerer.com

TEATIME TREATS

For our August teatime celebration, I’m serving those ladybug cupcakes and a tea of your choice in a pretty flowered teacup. Enjoy a relaxing moment in the shade!

Thank you for joining me. I pray you have many special moments to treasure as summer winds down. May the joy of our Lord’s goodness bless you always. With prayers and blessings, Sherida

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MAY NEWSLETTER….Trail Angels at Grand Canyon National Park and a library discovery, plus book recommendations.

For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands, O LORD, how great are thy works!

~~Psalm 92:4-5 (KJV)

Recently, my husband and I were Trail Angels for one of our sons. He hiked into the Grand Canyon to the Colorado River and then to a backcountry camping site. We dropped him off at the South Kaibab Trail, then picked him up there the next day. We camped in the park and enjoyed exploring the South Rim area. God’s power is displayed so profoundly as you stand on the edge and gaze into the depths of the mighty Grand Canyon. How great are His works!

We stopped at many view points and toured the Watchtower in the Desert View area in the eastern part of the park. This tower, built in 1932, is a National Historic Landmark. It was designed by Mary Colter, who was the architect for many of Fred Harvey’s southwest establishments.

Our campsite was delightful with shade and some wildlife visitors.

A family of elk passed through the campground during the day.

A western bluebird!

From our camping spot, we walked to the Market Plaza for an #teatime treat of ice cream. (I forgot to take a photo!) Then we discovered the nearby Grand Canyon Community Library. I picked up a book on the sale table about the Wigwam Resort, an historic property near our Arizona home where we’ve enjoyed dining. A fun find!

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Award-winning author Robin Lee Hatcher has written many inspirational books. Recently I read To Marry an English Lord, part of The British Are Coming series. I loved the characters, so immediately read the prequel novella, To Enchant a Lady’s Heart.

MY REVIEWS OF TO ENCHANT A LADY’S HEART AND TO MARRY AN ENGLISH LORD

A charming historical novella of claiming true love! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In the age of arranged marriages in England, Adam Faulkner, the illegitimate son of the Earl of Hooke, finds himself without the appropriate status to find a bride. His father is kind to him and does employ him as the stable manager of his estate where Adam finds a passion for raising horses. Adam’s love of horses is shared by a woman who holds his heart. But this woman is to be his brother’s intended once the final agreement is made.

Eliza Southwick is considered past the proper age for marriage. Her father, wealthy Lord George Southwick, expects her to wed the Earl of Hooke’s heir, Sebastian. But she longs to find the right man to marry for love, not obligation.

I was invested in these compelling characters. With the complication of their social status, their attraction to each other had some difficulties to overcome amid some twists and turns. The details of life and society in England during the 1890’s are interesting. Author Robin Lee Hatcher writes a feel-good story with sweet romance in a historical English setting. This novella, with its touches of faith, will enchant you. I imagine you’ll want to read the whole series as much as I do.

Favorite quote:

Her life might not be exactly as she wished it, but it would be exactly as God ordained.

Enchanting series with memorable characters! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I am captivated by the characters in this story and by the western setting of Eden’s Gate Ranch in Robin Lee Hatcher’s series, The British Are Coming. In 1895, English viscount Sebastian Whitcombe travels to an Idaho ranch owned by a college friend, seeking to settle his mind about his father’s demand that he marry well and produce an heir to carry on the Earl of Hooke lineage. On the ranch, he meets his friend’s sister, Jocelyn Overstreet, an independent woman who runs the family’s shipping empire in New York City. After a bit of a rocky start, an attraction develops between the two.

This couple grabbed my heart as they strive to live up to the expectations of their positions. Family and faith are important to them. I appreciated the struggles they faced as members of loving and responsible families. Author Robin Lee Hatcher delivers an enchanting romance.

After finishing this book, I immediately wanted to binge read the whole series, staring with the prequel novella, To Enchant a Lady’s Heart, featuring other members of the family. The next next installment of the family saga, To Capture a Mountain Man, is set in one of my favorite places, the wilderness of Yellowstone National Park, so I know it will be a fascinating adventure. As you can tell, I highly recommend this series by Robin Lee Hatcher, a gifted Christian author.

Favorite quote: “If you have asked God a question and diligently seek His answer, I promise He will speak to you. What I cannot promise is that the answer will come quickly. Sometimes we must wait and trust. Waiting can be difficult. But the answer will come.”

To learn more about the series and other books by this author, visit her webpage at: http://www.RobinLeeHatcher.com.

Thank you for stopping by my blog. Have you ever visited Grand Canyon National Park? Do you have a favorite place to view the wonders of what God has made? I pray your summer is filled with the awesome beauty of His amazing creation.

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation.

Spring Adventures: Hiking, Books, and Blessings! #Teatime March newsletter

It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV)

What does spring look like in your area? Are you ready to welcome new beginnings as the temperatures warm? Here in Arizona, we’re celebrating with new hiking excursions and fresh-from-the-tree red grapefruits from our yard. Every spring day reveals new blossoms for next year’s crop….a reminder of God’s renewed blessings and grace every morning, as His Word promises. The Lord, with His faithfulness and love, is our hope for the future….each day!

MARCH TRAVEL-HIKING TO THE MEXICAN BORDER

With the perfect temperatures of springtime in Arizona, we set off on a new adventure, traveling south to hike a portion of the Arizona Trail to the border of Mexico and to visit Bisbee, Arizona, an early mining town. We stayed at the historic Copper Queen Hotel and toured the Mining and Historical Museum where I loved seeing the Bisbee Blue turquoise found in the area.

This view from Montezuma Pass of the valley where the Coronado Expedition traveled in the 1540s. We started our hike down to Mexico from here.

Here I stand along the border, next to The Wall and the monument marking the southern terminus of the Arizona Trail.

This concrete monument marks the boundary with a view of Mexico beyond.

The historic Copper Queen Hotel in Bisbee Arizona, built in 1902 and listed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places. www.copperqueen.com

Turquoise on display in the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum. The turquoise stones found in the area are named Bisbee Blue because of their striking color. www.bisbeemuseum.org

TEATIME TREATS

To start our hiking day, we tried a new coffee/tea shop and selected a toasted coconut scone for breakfast. I don’t have a recipe to share this month, but hope you’ll enjoy this virtual treat from Sweetly Created.

MARCH BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

As a March book suggestion, I recommend Love’s Promise-Wyoming Sunrise Book 4 by Penny Zeller, a new-to-me author.

MY REVIEW

An engaging Wyoming historical romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I enjoyed the development of the sweet romance between rancher Silas McFadden and a new arrival in Poplar Springs, Amaya Alvarado, who is helping her grandmother run a mercantile shop while her grandfather recovers from an illness. Silas has regrettable events in his past which threaten his future with Amaya. She is grieving the loss of her fiancé and doesn’t want to have another relationship. Can love find a way to bring these two together?

Great historical details enliven the story between outlaw activities and life in the early frontier. I especially liked the heartfelt salvation scene Silas enables and the charming solution for the precious orphans toward the end of the book, plus the strong themes of forgiveness and relying on faith.

If you like historical romance with plenty of action, great characters, and heartwarming small community support, I definitely recommend Love’s Promise by Penny Zeller. And there is a recipe for carrot cake. 🙂

Favorite quote:

The desire in his heart to be a father like his Heavenly Father gripped him with an unrelenting hold. “It’s just like how God loves us even when we make mistakes.”

For more information about the book and the author, please check out her website: http://www.PennyZeller.com

Penny and I both have recipes in the historical authors’ For the Love of Recipes cookbook I mentioned last month. If you’re a subscriber and would like a copy, please request one in the comments, and I’ll email you the PDF file.

APRIL RELEASE SUGGESTIONS FOR CHRISTIAN FICTION

Rom-Com: Some Like It Scot by Pepper Basham releases April 8, 2025. Click to preorder: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8VP99G9. Visit her website: www.pepperdbasham.com. Via @thomasnelsonfiction @netgalley

Inspirational Romance: A Blessing in Disguise by debut Love Inspired author Ciara Knight release April 1, 2025. Click to preorder: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9D961Q8. Visit her website: www.CiaraKnight.com

Thank you for joining me for a celebration of spring with hiking, travel, treats, and books. What NEW plans do you have for spring? What books are on your to-be-read pile for spring? I pray you feel His renewing grace at the beginning of each day!

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

Author of Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance (Click to purchase Kindle copy from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHJG6HZC )

*To leave a comment, click below on the date of this post, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting. Thank you!

February #teatime newsletter (including a sweet gift) with hearts and chocolate, plus book reviews….with plenty of faith, hope, and love!

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breath, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:17-19 (KJV)

TEATIME TREATS

Since my husband had a tooth pulled on Valentine’s Day, we had a quiet day at home while he recovered. However, as a belated celebration, we attended a Chocolate Affaire. Wow! Such a selection of goodies! Today for our teatime treat, I’m serving a few of the items we brought home. What would you like? Fudge, chocolates or macaroons?

A GIFT FOR YOU….For the Love of Recipes!

Recently, a group of historical romance authors complied a cookbook of recipes featured in their inspirational books. We each added a recipe and a bit of information about the story which mentions the food treat. My contribution is the bischochito recipe from Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance. If you’re a subscriber to this blog, please mention in the comments below (by February 25, 2025) that you’d like to have this gift, and I’ll email you a PDF copy of this special collection. Our thanks to Christian author Penny Zeller (http://www.pennyzeller.com ) for organizing this cookbook!

NOW FOR MY REVIEWS OF BOOKS I’VE READ RECENTLY

The Road Before Us by Janine Rosche

I really enjoyed this story!

The Road Before Us covers many of emotional topics as a group of three individuals drive together across the countryside of the iconic Route 66. Each person has emotional issues to delve into during their travels. The author makes the situations and feelings realistic. I eagerly read the book to find out what happened to these struggling characters. I was invested in each one as I enjoyed their trip along Route 66. I especially liked the strength they found in their faith. I highly recommend becoming immersed in their journey along the Mother Road as they discover themselves and heal from the past.

To find out more, please visit the author’s website at: http://www.janinerosche.com

Escape to Whispering Creek by Barbara M. Britton

An engaging romantic suspense!

The mystery tucked between the pages of this novel makes for a fascinating romance. When Emma Uranova discovers she’d been tricked and swindled by the company she works for, she plans to stay with her best friend in Whispering Creek. During the visit, she accepts a temporary position at an electrical company. Her boss, Wade Donovan, is recuperating from an accident.

Unfortunately, threats and complications have followed Emma to her new location, perhaps endangering her friends. The challenging situation, with the accompanying budding attraction, is heartwarming as the couple strongly leans on their mutual faith to sustain them through the decisions which must be made. “The fact that they shared a faith in God was icing on the cookie.”

Though this is the second book in the series, I had no trouble following the story. If you enjoy a faith-based romance with a suspenseful “could-be-possible” scenario involving crimes and danger, this will be a good choice.

Favorite quote: “God had a plan that I didn’t even know about, and here I am, looking forward to what God has for me in the future. I’m not looking backward.”

*I was given a copy of this book by the author and publisher with no requirement to write a review. This is my honest opinion.

For more information, please visit the author’s website at:

http://www.barbarambritton.com

Hiking photo of the month! February is a perfect month to hike in Arizona, so I’ll leave you with one picture I took of my husband as we hiked along a desert trail. Look at that saguaro cactus! Do you see my husband?

Thank you for joining me for my February Teatime celebration. I also want to thank those of you who have posted such touching reviews of my historical romance, Healing Hearts. I LOVE them all! You have warmed my heart with your precious words, plus you have blessed an organization which helps children with heart syndromes! I am GRATEFUL for each of you!

With blessings and prayers,

Sherida

With a big THANK YOU, I welcome you to my January #teatime and #OneWord post!

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing.
I Thessalonians 5:16-17 ~~KJV

MY 2025 ONE WORD-REJOICE

Thanks to all who purchased my book, Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance. I was able to donate the proceeds of the sales of this book to the Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome Foundation (http://sads.org) in honor of my youngest grandson. SADS helps heal the hearts of children who have certain health issues. Plus I deeply appreciate those who wrote such lovely reviews. I rejoice in all your support!

Teatime treat-Cranberry Tart

Who doesn’t love festive treats around the holidays? I purchased some cranberries before Thanksgiving and planned to serve this luscious tart for Christmas, but alas, didn’t find enough time get it baked. (Don’t worry, we had plenty of other delicious desserts!)

But, rejoice! I still had the ingredients, so whipped it up for a mid-January treat. It’s so pretty and looks especially nice in front of the snowman decorations my mother painted years ago. Here’s a link to the recipe: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/nantucket-cranberry-tart/ I suggest placing the tart pan on a foil-covered baking sheet just in case the juices leak out…as this happened to me when I made it. Also, I needed to bake a bit longer than stated in the recipe.

Book recommendation: Echoes of Texas by Laura Conner Kestner

I’m delighted to share my review of an award-winning author friend’s latest novel.

A CAPTIVATING 5-STAR ROMANCE!

I was captivated by this historical romance. Despite their age difference, a sweet attraction develops between former Texas Ranger Captain Joshua Parnell and frontier nurse Martha Kate Gentry. When Joshua gets a message from an old friend asking for help, both Joshua and Martha Kate get involved with the unusual behavior of the citizens of Weller’s Station, Texas. The mystery surrounding past events in this town kept me turning the pages.

Author Laura Conner Kestner skillfully immerses the reader in accurate details which make the historical period come to life. The characters were strong, with the tender romance and a gentle faith element woven throughout…just what I like in a book. I highly recommend this fascinating tale of the Texas frontier….along with all the other books in the Moccasin Rock series.

Favorite quote:
“I trust that I was where I was supposed to be,” said Martha Kate. “I prayed often for God to guide me.”

Find out more about author Laura Conner Kestner and her books on her website: http://www.LauraConnerKestner.com. Here’s the link to purchase from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQ2M9GRJ

Thank you for visiting my blog!

What books do you have on your reading list for 2025?

Did you choose a ONE WORD for 2025 or do you make resolutions?

What is your favorite holiday treat? I’m already starting a list for the next holiday season.

I truly appreciate your support. May you have many reasons to REJOICE in 2025!

Blessings and prayers, Sherida

Here’s the link to purchase my ebook on Amazon. Thank you! http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHJG6HZC