Christian – Sherida Stewart

Teatime review of A Steadfast Companion by Myra Johnson plus my ONE WORD for 2023.

Looking for an uplifting book? My heart is always touched by reading a book by Myra Johnson. She now has ten romances published by Harlequin’s Love Inspired imprint, along with a number of other novels. Please settle in with a cup of tea (or coffee) while we chat about her newest book, A Steadfast Companion, a sweet romance filled with hope and forgiveness.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Offering a helping hand…

Could give him everything he needs.

Fighting his way back from a troubled past, handyman Angus “Witt” Wittenbauer needs refuge. When dog sanctuary owner Maddie McNeill needs someone to fix her kennel’s roof, it seems like the answer to his prayers, especially when he’s reunited with his long-lost dog, Ranger. His growing friendship with Maddie hints at the promise of something more, but will Witt ever feel deserving of love again?

MY THOUGHTS

A heartwarming story filled with hope! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Steadfast Companion offers an uplifting story of perseverance through challenging times….and finding love and contentment. The characters really touched my heart. Handyman Whit is a kind and honest man, even after his life was destroyed while trying to do the right thing. Struggling with financial problems, Maddie McNeill is hardworking as she attempts to keep her grandmother’s senior dog rescue sanctuary open. And Ranger is the perfect “man’s best friend” watching out for and supporting his owner. Secondary characters in the community of Elk Valley, Montana, offer small town warmth and friendship.

Besides the engaging story of overcoming difficulties, I enjoyed a romance with older characters. What a great combination this couple makes….each giving selflessly and encouraging the other. The epilogue provides a charming ending to this sweet story. Author Myra Johnson gives us a compelling message of faith and hope in A Steadfast Companion.

Favorite quote: “There’s always hope, my friend. We worship a God of hope. Hope and second chances and forgiveness beyond measure.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.

ABOUT MYRA JOHNSON

After thirteen years away, native Texan and award-winning author Myra Johnson is happy to be back in her home state enjoying bluebonnets and real Texas barbecue.

Myra’s novels have won several honors, including the 2014 Christian Retailing’s Best Award for historical fiction and the 2017 National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She is also a two-time finalist for the ACFW Carol Awards and a three-time finalist for the Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Awards. She is currently at work on another contemporary romance for Love Inspired.

Married since 1972, the Johnsons have two beautiful daughters, two godly sons-in-law, and seven amazing grandchildren. The Johnsons share their home with two lovable (and very spoiled) rescue dogs and a snobby cat who thinks he’s the boss of everyone!

Visit her website at http://www.MyraJohnson.com to learn about her other books and signup for her newsletter. Pssst! If you follow her, you may learn of upcoming free book promotions, perhaps one starting February 24. *wink*

MY ONE WORD FOR 2023

I’m a bit behind in posting my word for the year. Where did January go? And February, for that matter? In later posts, I’ll explain this selection and the impact I believe this word will have on my faith in 2023.

HEART

My scripture for the year is:

But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, the word keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
Luke 8:15 KJV

Thank you for joining me for this teatime review. Do you have a word of the year you’d like to share? May you find joy and courage in your HEART.

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

BACKPACKING IN THE CASCADES-A REWARDING WAIT

WAIT, my One Word for 2022, again proved inspired as we WAITed for the Golden Ticket.

Filled with anticipation, my husband and I headed to Washington in June for our long aWAITed backpacking trip in North Cascades National Park……our second three-generation backcountry adventure.

View from the trail in North Cascades National Park

To obtain a coveted reservation for a remote camping site in North Cascades National Park, an entry in a lottery is required. So we WAITed until March 3 for the registration to open. Four of us signed up for a chance, then WAITed until March 18 to be notified. ONLY ONE of us had won the “Golden Ticket.” Then we WAITed until April 12 for the time window to open allowing us to choose a site.

The WAIT was worth it! We got great sites for three nights on a trail which would be just right for the different ages (5-years to 73-years-old) and abilities of our family group. Then there was the WAIT for June to start our adventure.

Backpacking in North Cascades National Park

On the trail

Our grandsweeties were fabulous hikers….a total of fourteen miles with more than a 1000’ elevation gain. Each grandchild carried their own pack with needed items, even the youngest carrying her water and snacks. Their parents are to be commended for hauling heavy loads with the tent, stove, water purification items, meals and other needed supplies for their family of five. When we reached each day’s campsite, everyone pitched in to set up tents.

Our oldest granddaughter learned to light the Jetboil to heat water for dinner. Our grandson practiced wise bear-country food storage by throwing the rock bag onto a tree limb in order to hang food safely during the nights. Our youngest granddaughter pointed out wildflowers along the way.

We dined on yummy dehydrated meals. During downtime, we played a card game, Kings in the Corner, on a tree stump. During a rainy morning breakfast under a tarp, a friendly deer stopped by to visit.

The trail was beautiful, lined with tall trees and offering views of mountain peaks. We crossed many cascading creeks and were thankful for a sturdy bridge over Thunder Creek. The sounds of rushing water alternated with quiet forest sounds as we hiked along the path.

Along the forest trail, heading to one of our campsites.

Fortunately there is a sturdy bridge over Thunder Creek. The turquoise color is because of glacier flour.

SCRIPTURE

Your love, Lord, reaches to the highest heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteous is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals. How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! ~~ Psalm 36:5-7 (NIV)

What an amazing experience we had making memories among God’s magnificent creations! Did you need to WAIT for a special activity or gathering this summer? I pray your days are filled with special treasures!

With blessings,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

My #teatime review of MERCIFUL SECRECY by Ruth Logan Herne.

Do you like mystery/suspense books….with uplifting characters? A favorite inspirational author, Ruth Logan Herne, has written a superb story with all the intrigue of a mystery, all the danger of a suspense and all the encouragement of faith. I loved Merciful Secrecy! While you read my review, please settle in with a cup of tea or coffee….and a delicious dessert croissant. (Ruthy includes the recipe at the end of the book.)

MY REVIEW OF MERCIFUL SECRECY

An entertaining and heart-touching mystery! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As an excellent addition to the Miracles and Mysteries of Mercy Hospital series, Merciful Secrecy takes us back to Charleston where four sleuthing friends provide their skills to protect a young nurse at Mercy Hospital who is being stalked by a stranger.

I was completely engaged in this story. The main characters are such fun, each with distinctive, compassionate personalities, as they work to determine who is threatening the emergency room nurse. With intriguing flashbacks, the details of past events are slowly revealed adding questions to what is currently happening at the hospital. Excitement, danger and twists kept me turning the pages. The heartfelt emotions had me reaching for tissues a few times. I highly recommend this mystery book for its touching message of dedication, friendship, family and self-sacrifice.

Favorite quotes:

A busy hospital housed lots of folks in need of prayer. The Angel of Mercy (statue) was the perfect reminder that God lives and loves. Even in the darkest hours.

“We pray and we let God do what God’s best at doing—fixing things.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m honored to offer my honest opinion.

ABOUT MERCIFUL SECRECY

“Anne Mabry loves her volunteer work at Mercy Hospital, and she loves the relationship she’s been able to form with the staff. So when she learns that nurse Katie McNamara is unsettled by a strange sequence of events, Anne can’t help but wonder if someone is threatening her. When Anne later meets Katie’s grandfather, a retired Atlanta detective, and learns that Katie was adopted after her father testified against the mob, Anne and her friends set out to make sure the young woman is not in any true danger.

When Anne sees a suspicious man hanging around the hospital, she wonders if he’s waiting for Katie, or perhaps her doppelganger, Kitty Sue. Could there be more of a connection between these women than just their physical appearance? Is something sinister afoot at Mercy Hospital? And can Anne and her friends solve the mystery in time for an Easter celebration to remember?” (From the back-cover)

ABOUT RUTH LOGAN HERNE

Ruthy is a multi-published, award-winning writer of inspirational stories who lives on a pumpkin farm in upstate New York. Her books feature small towns, lovable characters and challenging situations….all infused with faith. To learn more about this amazing author, please visit her website: http://www.RuthLoganHerne.com. Merciful Secrecy is available at: http://www.guideposts.org.

Are you a fan of mystery books? Do you have a stack of TBR books for this summer? Thank you so much for visiting my blog!

With blessings and prayers for an enjoyable summer of reading,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation.

A #Teatime review of The Rancher’s Family Legacy by Myra Johnson

Welcome to my review of Myra Johnson’s The Rancher’s Family Legacy, the third book in her Ranchers of Gabriel Bend series.

ABOUT THE RANCHER’S FAMILY LEGACY

A future he didn’t want….

Could become the family he needs.

Building contractor Mark Caldwell is ready to inherit his grandfather’s horse ranch and put his traumatic past behind him—if he can survive working in Texas Hill Country for a year. But when his dog bonds with local caterer Holly Elliot’s son, Mark can’t refuse Holly’s request to be her son’s mentor. Can they put aside their differences long enough to open their hearts?

MY THOUGHTS

An amazing story of family strength and love! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Of the three friends establishing the River Bend Events and Wedding Chapel, Holly Elliot is the extraordinary caterer for the group. Much of her focus is directed at keeping her young, epileptic son safe. When building contractor Mark Caldwell shows up because of a stipulation in his grandfather’s will, sparks fly between the two, especially because of the attachment between Mark, his dog and Holly’s son. Emotions flare because of different personalities and some misunderstandings. Because of past heartbreaks, a great deal of healing is necessary before the couple can move forward.

I love how author Myra Johnson has woven the complex family dynamics into all three Ranchers of Gabriel Bend books, each revealing part of the feud which has caused difficulties. With love and faith, this endearing family strives to overcome the past hurts. I’ve enjoyed all the books in the series, and I’m sorry to say goodbye to this community of small town values. But I can now imagine these sweet characters continuing on with their lives, giving back to the town and supporting both extended families. I highly recommend this romance for its uplifting, feel-good emotions of faith and strong family bonds. And if you know me, the tearoom concept is definitely “my cup of tea.”

Favorite quotes:

“Life never goes quite as planned…..I try hard not to question God, but I do wonder why He lets some things happen….or doesn’t.”

“But knowing God cares, that He’s always with me, even in the pain, and even when I can’t feel His presence—it’s where I find the strength to face each day. It’s how I find gratitude for the good in my life right now.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.

ABOUT AUTHOR MYRA JOHNSON

Myra writes inspiration romance from her home in Texas Hill Country where she enjoys the beautiful bluebells of the region during the spring. To learn more about Myra and her books, please check out her website: http://www.myrajohnson.com

SCRIPTURE

This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
~~Psalm 118:24 (KJV)

TEATIME TREAT RECIPE—BISCOCHITOS

This is my mother-in-law’s recipe. She was an amazing cook, especially in the cookie and pie departments.

1/2 cup solid butter flavored shortening or margarine

2/3 cup sugar

1-1/2 cups flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. anise seed

1/2 tsp. salt

1 egg

1 tbsp. orange juice

cinnamon sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Cream together shortening and sugar.
Add flour, anise seed, baking powder and salt.
Combine egg and orange juice, then beat into mixture a little at a time. (Dough should be moist but workable.)
Form into a long roll, wrap in plastic and let cool in the refrigerator.
Slice into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
Pat each cookie on one side with cinnamon sugar and place (unsugared side down) on a parchment paper covered cookie sheet.
Bake 8 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.

I’m glad you stopped by for my review and for a teatime treat. I hope your summer will begin with a bit of relaxing time and a good story. Do you have a book you’re looking forward to reading this summer?

With blessings and prayers,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation.

What is this? With a WAIT, I found out.

I saw this on the outside wall of our house toward the end of last year. I had a suspicion, but I needed to WAIT to see if I was correct. When a bird attempted to peck that very spot, I believed I was right. To protect it from harm, we covered the area with paper, hoping this would hide it from attracting more inquisitive visitors.

After our months-long WAIT, we saw this.

Do you see it?

Here’s a closer view.

After we waited patiently, this little nymph appeared, followed by a few more over a span of a couple of weeks.

Yes, a praying mantis baby!

Several months earlier, I’d watched an adult praying mantis climbing along the exterior of our house. A few days later, I noticed the odd thing stuck to the wall. I guessed it was an egg sack, but needed to WAIT for the reveal…..in God’s perfect timing.

The WAIT seemed appropriate for 2022 since WAIT is my 2022 One Word. I needed a reminder of His timing, His plan and His miracles.

But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. ~~Romans 8:25 (KJV)

There still remain things I’m waiting on this year, but these seeing these tiny creatures finally emerge provide encouragement for all things I’m waiting for in 2022. With the instruction to faithfully “trust in the Lord” because His plans for believers are good, we have the promise of hopeful outcomes in our situations.

I do admit I need reminders to keep my trust in God during the uncertainty and challenges facing us all…..leaving worry and fear behind. Are you waiting for something? I pray you are comforted by the promise He will reveal His perfect plan for you……at just the right time.

With blessings,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will post after moderation. I apologize for the delay.

#Teatime review of Searching for Home by @JillWeatherholt

Welcome to my #Teatime review of Jill Weatherholt’s latest Love Inspired romance! If you’re looking for an uplifting story to start 2022, this book is a great choice. Isn’t the cover featuring adorable triplets absolutely charming?

ABOUT SEARCHING FOR HOME

Can three little matchmakers lasso a cowboy father?

When injured professional bull rider Luke Beckett returns to his hometown to recover, he doesn’t expect his B and B host and physical therapist to be his first and only love, Meg Brennan. He’s also unprepared for Meg’s Ada or able triplets to steal his heart. Luke’s past has him doubting he’s good enough for Meg and the children, but they might be just what the doctor ordered to help him heal…..

MY REVIEW

An absolutely enthralling story! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

When you pick up Searching for Home, be prepared for a delightful romance as three adorable little matchmakers fill your heart!

“Cowboy Luke” Beckett, a successful rodeo star, returns to his home town of Whispering Slopes to recover from an injury. His physical therapist turns out to be his former girlfriend, Meg Brennan, who recently returned to town to care for her sister’s triplets and a failing bed and breakfast lodge.

With both suffering from past abandonment issues…physical and emotional….the couple truly wants to provide stability for the three hurting children. But issues of trust and understanding cloud Meg and Luke’s perceptions of their future together. With the cute encouragement of the little matchmakers, the romance slowly develops.

I always find small town stories so warm and comforting. Whispering Slopes is this kind of community. “The people in this town were like one big family. They were the most loving and caring folks she’d ever known.” Author Jill Weatherholt creates characters I want to stroll with down the charming main street, stopping at a shop for hot tea, sweet scones and a friendly chat.

And this romance!!! *sigh* Two people disillusioned about family and love, but still filled with compassion toward others who need help. Love and faith shine throughout the pages. I especially liked the ideas the little ones developed to bring the couple together. The bed and breakfast setting…and the plans involving the inn…..are charming. Then there is the PERFECT ending! Page by page, I was absolutely enthralled with this uplifting story!

Favorite quotes:

“Why don’t we just focus on having a good time today and not worry about what the future might bring?”

“Sometimes God has His own plan for our life. We might not always agree or understand, but we have to trust Him and His timing. He always knows what’s best for us.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.

Now for a teatime treat. Wouldn’t triple chocolate cookies be perfect with a book featuring triplets? I’m serving mint tea or perhaps you’d prefer warm cocoa with these chocolate cookies.

Tea (or cocoa) and triple chocolate cookies!

Thank you for stopping by for this review post. I hope your Christmas was filled with joy and the New Year ahead is filled with great books! What are you most anticipating in 2022?

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

Welcome to my #Teatime review of The Cowgirl’s Sacrifice by Tina Radcliffe!

I’m so pleased you’ve joined us to talk about Tina Radcliffe’s newest release. Tina’s books are ALWAYS fun and inspirational. The Cowgirl’s Sacrifice is all this and more. Kate will grab your heart as you get to know her self-sacrificing spirit. I hope you love this story as much as I did. Please have an apple fritter from Eagle Donuts and a mug of coffee or a cup of tea.

ABOUT THE COWGIRL’S SACRIFICE

Making new dreams is never easy.

This cowgirl has wandered back home…Will she choose her past or her future?

Needing time to heal after a rodeo injury, Kate Rainbolt heads to her family ranch to accept the foreman job her brothers offered her months ago. But the position’s already been filled by her ex-boyfriend, Jess McNally, and the only open job reports to him. With Jess as her temporary boss—and turning into something more—might he finally convince Kate to put down roots?

MY REVIEW

Kate Rainbolt’s much-anticipated story is an absolute winner!

I love the Rainbolt brothers featured in the earlier Hearts of Oklahoma books, and author Tina Radcliffe’s last story in the series, The Cowgirl’s Sacrifice, was worth the wait! We finally get sister Kate’s romance! With intertwined pasts, a handsome cowboy and a wandering cowgirl must overcome complex issues to find grace and follow their hearts for a second chance at a happily-ever-after ending. A complete delight to read!

Sheltered by protective older brothers, Kate Rainbolt took a courageous and unusual path to become a rodeo clown. When a traumatic accident temporarily sidelines her, Kate heads home hoping to recuperate while working at the family ranch.

After his estranged father’s death, Jess McNally returns to Oklahoma to be near his ailing mother. Employed as ranch foreman for Kate’s brothers, Jess McNally is conflicted when he becomes their sister’s boss. Years ago, he had plans to marry Kate, but she left him behind to pursue other dreams.

Tina Radcliffe’s books are always entertaining, filled with humor, touching characters and sweet romance. However, this return visit to Rebel Ranch in Oklahoma, provides an even higher level of enjoyment. My heart was warmed at Kate’s empathy for Jess’ niece, Olive, who shares a similar painful childhood. Kate’s compassionate and faith-filled personality shines throughout the book. I enjoyed her journey to a new beginning and truly admired her selfless gift of sacrificial love.

And of course there is food involved! We get virtual apple fritters from Eagle Donuts, a special cupcake from Daisy’s Pies and Baked Goods, and in this story, sweet nine-year-old Olive gives Kate cooking lessons, proving we all can learn if we have the right encouragement. (Recipes included on Tina Radcliffe’s webpage!) I highly recommend this latest story by one of my favorite authors.

Favorite quotes:

“I guess anything beautiful comes with risks.”

After ten years as a tumbleweed, could she put down roots forever?

“This isn’t about paying a debt, “ Kate said. “This is about how sometimes you just know you’re on the correct path.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a positive review. I’m pleased to offer my honest opinion.

SCRIPTURE

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. ~~Philippians 1:6

The Cowgirl’s Sacrifice by Tina Radcliffe

Thank you for joining me for tea, apple fritters and my thoughts about Tina Radcliffe’s final book in The Hearts of Oklahoma series. I’ve enjoyed all the stories about the fascinating Rainbolt siblings, so it’s hard to say goodbye to Rebel Ranch, but I know this author has more heart-touching books to come. Tina Radcliffe is the queen of witty cowboy romance! If you want more information about Tina…..and recipes for the foods mentioned in the book, check out her website www.TinaRadcliffe.com.

What about you? Do you like the touches authors add to their stories…..foods, pets and kids? I hope you are having an inspired summer with good books, restful retreats and treasured moments.

With blessings and prayers,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

Welcome to my #TeaTime review of A DREAM OF FAMILY by Jill Weatherholt!

Welcome to my review of Jill Weatherholt’s July release, A Dream of Family. Featuring a bookstore and a precious little girl, this uplifting story is filled with special moments.

ABOUT THE A DREAM OF FAMILY

From the minute Molly Morgan saw sad-eyed little Grace, she longed to give her a happy home. But Molly’s struggling bookstore is endangering her adoption chances. Outgoing entrepreneur Derek McKinney has a puppy Grace adores–and a plan to save Molly’s business. But can he and Molly put their troubled past behind them in time to make a family for a lifetime?

MY REVIEW OF A DREAM OF FAMILY

With its warmth and compassion, A Dream of Family refreshes the heart. A perfect book for summer reading!

Whispering Slopes is a delightful town to visit for a bit of relaxing and to get a dose of pure small town friendliness. With the addition of a sweet romance and an even sweeter little girl, this story left me with sighs of happy contentment.

In the past, Molly Morgan had many dreams crushed, and now, just as her heart’s desire of having a family is within reach, she faces losing both her independent bookstore and precious little Grace, the foster child she hopes to adopted.

Successful Derek McKinney opens a branch of his thriving coffee shop business adjacent to Molly’s store. Operating next door to the woman whose wedding day he ruined two years earlier will be a challenge, but his promise to help Molly succeed will also further his plans…..in more ways than either of them expect.

Reading this story of hope….when life is hard and discouraging….is warmly comforting. The characters are touching as they face struggles, but persevere to overcome past situations and learn to forgive. Molly’s feelings of doubt about herself make her believable. And Derek is a great hero, willing to help Molly achieve her dreams. I love small town romance stories where the community cheers for the couple to fall in love and folks offer homestyle wisdom. If you’re looking for a feel-good romance, I highly recommend A Dream of Family!

Favorite quotes: “Don’t ever compare yourself to others. This is your journey, and yours alone. Comparing it with others’ will steal your joy quicker than anything.”

She had to continue to cling to her faith and believe in the impossible—in promises.

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a positive review. I’m pleased to offer my honest opinion.

SCRIPTURE

And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. ~~Luke 11:9

Thank you for stopping by to read my review. Jill writes such heartwarming stories. I’m sure you’ll enjoy this book, its characters and the charming small town of Whispering Slopes. This is a perfect summertime read….with hot or iced tea! Please visit Jill at her website: http://www.JillWeatherholt.com. Sign up for her refreshing newsletter featuring her beloved “hummies” and to purchase her books. You’ll enjoy getting to know Jill. She spreads happiness and joy with her uplifting Love Inspired romances.

And yes, it has been awhile since I posted on my blog. The beginning of 2021 brought many changes and blessings. I’ll post about these exciting adventures soon. I hope your summer is filled with God’s sparkling treasures.

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

Welcome to my #TuesdayTea review of Finding the Road Home by Tina Radcliffe!

WELCOME TO MY TUESDAY TEA CELEBRATION! I’m serving pie and chatting about a fun new book. Please settle in with a cup of cinnamon spice tea while I serve you a slice of Poor Man’s Pecan Pie. (I’ll tell you about that later.)

Tina Radcliffe, one of my favorite authors, is starting a new Love Inspired series, Hearts of Oklahoma, set in the fictional small town of Rebel, a community of charming characters where everyone is treated like family. I simply love the first book in the series, Finding the Road Home, which releases February 18 in paperback and March 1 for Kindle.

ABOUT THE BOOK

To care for her orphaned nieces and nephews, Daisy Anderson moved to a small town for a new deputy position— but now her job could be eliminated. With potential budget cuts looming, her only hope is to work with police chief Mitch Rainbolt to save their department’s funds. But can their fight for her job lead to something neither dared wish for: a future together?

MY REVIEW

Welcome to Rebel, Oklahoma, where hearts fall in love and everyone is treated like family!

Daisy Anderson arrives in town with her five orphaned nieces and nephews to begin her new job with the police department. Her heart-throb boss, Chief Mitch Rainbolt, is ready to offer her protection and help, but this is not what this self-sufficient woman wants.

With the story’s theme of facing the challenges encountered along the road of life, it’s encouraging to see how Mitch and Daisy embrace their trials with faith and learn to accept help from others. A great hope filled book accented with endearing children and humorous pages.

And the romance! I melted at the sweet dance scene, followed by a tender first kiss. Daisy and Mitch have obstacles to face on the way to their happily-ever-after, but it’s such fun to watch their love grow. And the charming epilogue is the perfect ending!

I was definitely anticipating author Tina Radcliffe’s newest series, Hearts of Oklahoma. In each of her books, she brings small towns to life. You feel wrapped in the warmth of a cozy community as you turn the pages. I fell in love with the town of Rebel with its lovable citizens, cute shops and nearby guest ranch. Did I mention there’s a bakery? Yep, my kind of story! I can’t wait for more books featuring Rebel, Oklahoma!

Favorite quote: “Sometimes you just have to step up to the plate and trust the good Lord will teach you how to bat.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m happy to offer my honest opinion.

TEATIME TREATS AT A STOP ON ROUTE 66

The title of the book is Finding the Road Home, Oklahoma is the setting of the new series and heroine Daisy’s specialty is pie, so I’m taking you on an excursion along the Mother Road, to the Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma, where the dessert special is Oatmeal Pie….“the poor man’s pecan pie”… at this historic Route 66 eatery we visited on a trip to Tulsa.

The Rock Cafe along Route 66 in Stroud, Oklahoma

The Rock Cafe was built in 1936 using stone left over from the construction of Route 66 which came through Stroud in 1926. The restaurant opened in 1939, becoming a popular stop for Greyhound bus travelers and long-distance truckers. In 2001, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and benefited from restoration work. After John Lasseter, the creator of the Pixar movie Cars, visited the cafe, he modeled the character Sally after the owner of the restaurant. The decor features memorabilia from the movie producers. For more information, visit http://www.rockcafert66.com.

On the menu…Oatmeal Pie—“the poor man’s pecan pie”

The Rock Cafe along Route 66 in Stroud, Oklahoma ….note Lightning McQueen and the Sheriff waiting outside.

SCRIPTURE

But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. ~~Philippians 3:13 (KJV)

Thank you for stopping by for pie and my review of Finding the Road Home. Visit the author at her webpage, http://www.TinaRadcliffe.com to find out more about her books.
With prayers and blessings always, Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

A February #TuesdayTea book review—A Seaside Romance by Patti Jo Moore

As we approach the last day of February, I welcome you to my Tuesday Tea review of the contemporary love story, A Seaside Romance, by Patti Jo Moore.

The month of February is a time to appreciate the treasured blessings of all types of LOVE…family, friends, romantic, and the love of our Lord.

My mother painted these bears to represent our family when our sons were cubs. With love, our family now includes 2 DILs and 3 grandsweeties.

*** *** *** *** *** ***

Frosty mornings still greet me as February comes to a close. I’m anticipating spring, but warm days aren’t quite here yet. Reading stories can provide us with a virtual trip by transporting us to someplace different from our current place. A Seaside Romance is exactly this kind of book. Patti Jo Moore’s novel takes us to the charming beach town of Coastal Breeze, Florida……exactly what I need while waiting for the warmer days of spring.

TREATS

Since it’s still the month of love, I’m serving Valentine’s Day treats. Please help yourself to chocolate heart brownies or raspberry jam-filled Linzer heart cookies. I’ll pour you a cup of fruity raspberry tea. Now we’re ready to delve into A Seaside Romance!

Raspberry jam-filled Linzer Heart cookies

MY REVIEW

A Seaside Romance by Patti Jo Moore
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A sweet romance set in a charming beach town.

A Seaside Romance, by Patti Jo Moore, is a contemporary inspirational romance. Lovely Emma Hopkins is helping out at her aunt’s gift shop when she meets handsome traveling businessman Thomas Wilton. They both have secrets from their pasts which must be resolved before they can reach a romantic happily-ever-after.

Other interesting characters enliven the beachside village of Coastal Breeze, Florida, including compassionate Aunt Ginny, busybody Midge Weatherbee, and Thomas’ sister, Avril. I enjoyed the descriptions of the charming community and felt like I was shopping in the nautical themed gift shop featured in the story.

I especially liked the way prayer was realistically incorporated as a part of life, asking God for help and guidance. A great book for those who enjoy sweet romance!

Favorite quotes:
Yet what she could do was pray for strength to ignore those scars from the past, and also pray for strength and wisdom as she moved on with her life.

A BIT MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE AUTHOR

You might enjoy learning a bit more about author Patti Jo Moore and the inspiration for her newest book. Over at Laurie Wood’s blog, you can read a recent interview, however please note the giveaway has ended. Read the interview here.

As mentioned in the interview, Patti Jo has two more books to be released in her Emerald Coast Romances series set on the beautiful…and warm…Florida Gulf Coast. I’m looking forward to more sweet romances featuring this charming community. You can find Patti Jo’s Facebook page HERE.

BIBLE SCRIPTURE

Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.

Proverbs 21 (NIV)

PRAYER

I pray you are surrounded by the treasured blessings of love …in an ever-increasing circle.

THANK YOU for joining me for Tuesday Tea! (The heart card above was created by one of my grandsweeties. All grandsweeties are treasured blessings of love!)

With blessings and love,

Sherida