historical – Sherida Stewart

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER-I’m thankful for so much…our Lord, family, friends, authors, and desert trails.

To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

~~Psalm 30:12 (KJV)

The month of November provides a time to focus on gratefulness. I’m thankful for so many blessings in my life. As the weather cools here in the Southwest, we enter perfect desert hiking conditions…cooler temperatures, colorful wildflowers, and beautiful vistas. We are fortunate to enjoy great trails during this time of year.

Though it has been rainy, we were still surprised to discover water in a usually dry canyon on a favorite trail.

Hiking a river preserve trail, we’re treated to shaded walkways and colorful wildflowers.

We are thankful for the trails where we can hike and enjoy God’s amazing creation.

TWO BOOK REVIEWS

Heidi Ennis is a new-to-me author. Her historical romance book, A Father’s Dream, takes the reader on a journey to the Pacific Northwest of the late 19th century and blends Native American and Scandinavian culture in an exciting adventure. And what an evocative cover!

MY REVIEW of A Father’s Dream

An exciting love story of courage and fortitude in the rugged Pacific Northwest! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Father’s Dream takes the reader on an unforgettable journey during the 1880’s from Europe to New York City, then to the Pacific coast on a hopeful quest to fulfill the dream of owning a Washington Territory homestead.

The characters are wonderfully complex. I admired the courage and fortitude of Swedish immigrant Johanna Oman as she faced tragic situations to claim the land her father hoped would provide a new beginning for his family. Even with doubts along the way, her faith sustains her. Native American Mahkah “John” Haylaku, a member of a Columbia River tribe, is a worthy hero, handsome and strong, who overcame childhood abuse to become a compassionate protector.

Their relationship begins when he reluctantly agrees to be Johanna’s guide to locate her property. Their travel through the rugged wilderness is fascinating…immersed in the vivid landscape, dealing with the treacherous trail conditions, and facing the dangers of criminal elements. As they encounter many heart-stopping challenges, their commitment and love for each other grows.

I enjoyed the cultural details of the native customs of John’s people and the Swedish heritage of Johanna’s world. The ending is absolutely amazing….leaving me with tears and smiles…the best kind of romance! If you enjoy epic historical tales, I highly recommend this faith-filled story!

Favorite quote: “The strength of women. We are strong when we are connected. We give all to those we love, but we do it with the strength of those who have gone before us, those who have loved us and sacrificed for us.”

Click to purchase from Amazon: https://www.Amazon.com/dp/B0CQ15XMJF

For more information and to learn about the next book in the series, releasing in December, check out the author’s website: https://atthefootofmountains.com

MY REVIEW of A Christmas Inheritance

A perfect set of faith-filled Christmas novellas with the connected themes of inherited treasures and second chances. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

His Christmas Refuge by Tanya Stowe

Kurt Worley receives an unexpected inheritance from his uncle…a trailer park located back in his Arizona hometown…a place he left behind because of his dysfunctional childhood. He expected the property to be given to his high school girlfriend, Trish, who spent many years helping his Uncle Chris run and update the trailer park into a fun resort community, while raising her two children after her husband passed away. In this story, I enjoyed the characters, the revelations of secrets, and the themes of forgiveness and doing the right thing. What a fun group of individuals at the RV community….creating a “found family”…. taking care of each other…in the spirit of Christmas!

A Montana Christmas Promise by Myra Johnson

Since he’d worked for many years managing his benefactors’ apple orchard, Andrew Norwood had expected to inherit the farm after the widow died. However, it was surprisingly passed on to city girl Eleanor McKnight. She reluctantly arrives in the small rural community after the aunt she’d never met bequeathed the property to her. The untangling of emotions between the couple provide an interesting road to romance. I loved the details of the Christmas festival preparations, including all the delicious apple treats, and the lovely Rose of Sharon ring mentioned in the story. The warm ending fills the heart with the holiday spirit of the season.

The Prodigal Preacher’s Christmas Homecoming by Delia Latham

When Kale Mitchell returns to Sweetsong, Oregon to the house he inherited from his parents, he is greeted by his childhood friend, Dia Monday. As the prodigal preacher takes his father’s place as pastor, “Diamond” helps him reintegrate into the community he left in disgrace. I enjoyed their discovery of the inherited wooden chest which moves their relationship toward a sweet and satisfying ending.

If you are like me and enjoy reading holiday stories which uplift the heart, I highly recommend this set of Christmas novellas to fill you with the feel-good spirit of the season….plus make you excited to prepare for the special time with delicious treats and festive decorations.

You can purchase from Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FLZ56KQ5

TEATIME TREATS

For our treat today, I’m going traditional Thanksgiving with a slice of pumpkin pie and a spiced orange tea I found at a Fred Harvey shop. Enjoy!

I’m thankful for you stopping by my blog during this busy time….for a spot of refreshment. What are you especially thankful for this month? I pray you are blessed with gratitude and contentment as we prepare for the celebration of our Savior’s birth in December.

Blessings and prayers,

Sherida

To purchase Healing Hearts from Amazon: http://www.Amazon.com/dp/B0DHJG6HZC

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.

APRIL NEWSLETTER-the Rocks of Canyonlands National Park

The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer, The God of my rock; in him I will trust.

~~2 Samuel 22:2-3 (KJV)

Our family planned a four-night backpacking adventure in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park for spring break. With the possible lack of water in the area, my husband and I arrived early to stash three gallons of water. The trail to the caching site was challenging. As I hiked and climbed through the rocks and canyons of this amazing place, the Scripture above came to mind often.

Though I believe in stepping outside “my comfort zone,” I used discernment to decide carrying a heavy pack over difficult terrain was beyond my abilities. I became the Trail Angel for my family, ranging in age from eight-years-old to seventy-five, as they adventured into this exciting experience in a remote and beautiful area.

They had a fabulous time with overcoming some challenges. They are all experienced outdoor folks, who know good backcountry skills. With a winter storm coming in, the wise decision was made to cut the trip short. I was blessed to see their smiles of accomplishment as I met them at the trailhead, with thanks to God for their safe and successful trip!

NOW ON TO MY APRIL BOOK REVIEW

For those of you who appreciate Victorian historical romance, I recommend author Edwina Kiernan’s The Letter.

Delightful story with plenty of action, a sweet romance, and an inspiring faith thread!

Feeling restless in her parents’ town, Grace Stratton, a pastor’s daughter, accepts a job in the distant town of Lindenfell as a companion to Miss Withers. Questions arise when the wealthy lady’s nephew arrives to stay at the manor. Grace senses something odd about his situation, but he appears to be a caring and compassionate man.

I found this book to be a delightful read. The details of Victorian life were interesting. The mystery surrounding the nephew was intriguing. And the obstacles to the developing romance between the young couple provided fascinating challenges along with some surprising twists.

If you enjoy Victorian romance with rich details and fascinating characters, you’ll want to put this book on your reading list.

Favorite quotes:

God can cleanse, heal, and forgive even the most bitter, broken, and stained soul.

He knew that the Lord’s peace remained within him and could not be removed.

For more information about the author and this book, visit: https://www.EdwinaKiernan.com

TEATIME TREATS ON THE TRIP

The motel where I stayed had a lovely selection of tea and a great coffee bar featuring a Pin-Up Girl mocha flavored with white chocolate, maraschino syrup, and whipped cream.

Here is the selection of foods we packed for our trip. With four homemade backpacking dinner entrees (with M&Ms for dessert) and our trail food for breakfasts and snacks, we wouldn’t starve.

Thank you for joining me on my #teatime adventure to Canyonlands National Park and my book recommendation. What springtime adventure do you look forward to experiencing? May you enjoy His creation to the fullest and remember the Lord is our Rock….forever!

With blessings and prayers,

Sherida

*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!

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 )

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

You’re invited to a #teatime birthday celebration for my book, Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance! (Plus other inspirational book recommendations.)

BOOK TAG

Two wounded hearts.

His shattered with grief, hers burdened with guilt.

Will these hurting hearts be healed by love and faith?

A frontier Beauty and the Beast tale set in New Mexico Territory.

BOOK BLURB

Hope Somerville arrives in Raton, New Mexico Territory, to begin her new job as a Harvey Girl and to search for her missing younger brother. Nathan Phillips must stop an elusive outlaw gang plaguing the railway before someone gets hurt. When Hope and Nathan collide while rescuing a toddler from stampeding horses, sparks fly…both in anger and attraction. Will these two opposites find a path to their happily ever after?

Purchase healing hearts ebook

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TEATIME TREATS

Today I’m serving two treats mentioned in my book…raspberry tea and bischochitos…cinnamon and anise flavored cookies.

BISCOCHITOS-my mother-in-law’s recipe

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 tbls orange juice

cinnamon sugar (mix of 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tbls cinnamon)

Preheat oven to 350°.
Cream together shortening and sugar.
Add flour, anise seed, baking powder, and salt.
Combine egg and orange juice, then beat into creamed mixture a little at a time. Dough should be moist, but workable.
Form into a long roll and let cool in the refrigerator, then slice 1/4 inch thick. Pat each cookie on one side with the cinnamon sugar mixture and place unsugared side down on an ungreased cookie sheet. (After slicing, I put the cookies on parchment paper and sprinkle a bit of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top of each one.)
Bake 8 to 12 minutes or until lightly brown.

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FOR OCTOBER

MY REVIEW of The Cowboy’s Forgotten Love by Tina Radcliffe (releasing 10/22/2024)

I love this book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I was fascinated by the perplexing situation facing rodeo stars Lucas Morgan and Harper Reilly. After suffering a head trauma injury, six months are missing from Lucas’s memory. Who did he buy the engagement ring for? And Harper has difficult decisions to make for her future…and for Lucas’s recovery. How would these best friends resolve their relationship?

As always, the humor and warmth of the Morgan family shines throughout the story. It is touching to watch Lucas grow emotionally as he deals with his childhood issues, of course with the help of Harper. I struggled along with Harper as she assessed her future with balancing the expectations of her father. Where DOES Lucas fit and is it too late?

All the characters are entertaining, plus the puzzle about the engagement ring is resolved so cleverly! And the epilogue is delightful! (Definitely grab one of Bess Lowder’s cinnamon rolls while visiting the ranch.)

The Cowboy’s Forgotten Love is another stellar romance from author Tina Radcliffe. I highly recommend this book if you love engaging stories full of faith and sweet love.

P.S. I’m sad to be waving goodbye to the Lazy M Ranch. Though this last novel in the series can be read as a standalone, I definitely suggest you read all four of these inspirational books featuring the warmhearted Morgan brothers!

Favorite quote:

“Just keep taking the next step. You’ll get to where He wants you to be if you keep listening to that still-small voice.”

For more information, please check out the author’s website: http://www.tinaradcliffe.com

What’s the Story, Morning Glory? by Julie Lessman (released 10/01/2024j

I’ve just started reading this “unique and quirky” devotional and can tell you already, this is an emotion-filled, impactful way to study Scriptures. Julie Lessman covers many real life topics, first with a “real story” based on her experience, then the “novel story” where she shares passages from her novels, followed by the “Scripture story” citing applicable Bible verses, adding the “takeaway” story with bullet points, and ending with the “prayer story” offering a prayer related to the topic.
And to illustrate how heartfelt this writing is, I’m adding a personal note. I SHOULD NOT have started the infertility section while exercising on the treadmill at the gym. I fought tears as I read the author’s experiences, because my husband and I faced the same difficulties the author delves into. And she got the emotions exactly right! After eleven years of challenges, we, like the author, did have two children. I don’t understand why other couples don’t eventually find themselves parents….or why my husband and I…as with other people, lost babies along the way. I pray God’s comfort for us all. If you’re looking for a different type of devotional to study Scripture during your walk with Jesus, I highly recommend this book. For more information, please check out the author’s website: http://www.julielessman.com

Thank you for joining me for my BOOK BIRTHDAY celebration. I pray your October is filled with books to bring warmth to your heart…and light to your walk with our Lord. What are you anticipating during this autumn season?
With prayers and blessings, Sherida

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A #teatime celebration of stepping outside those comfort zones…and some book recommendations!

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

~~Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

MY BOOK IS ABOUT TO BE PUBLISHED!

My book, Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance, is now available for preorder, releasing October 8, 2024. For me, publishing this novel was a tremendous leap of faith…definitely outside my comfort zone. I truly did put my trust in our Lord to make this happen. (He chose the title.) To complete this writing journey, there were many who helped and encouraged me along the way, as I mention in the acknowledgment section of the book.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Two wounded hearts.

His shattered with grief, hers burdened with guilt.

Will these hurting hearts be healed by love and faith?

A frontier Beauty and the Beast tale set in New Mexico Territory.

HEALING HEARTS: A TURQUOISE TREASURES ROMANCE

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A YELLOWSTONE BACKPACKING ADVENTURE OUTSIDE MY COMFORT ZONE

This photo shows my husband and me at the end of our epic six-day backpacking trip around Shoshone Lake in Yellowstone National Park, smiling and grateful to have made the 35-mile trip successfully and safely!

As I hinted in my August post, we backpacked around a favorite place in Yellowstone, Shoshone Lake near Old Faithful. I was a bit concerned because this was my longest trip…both in miles and days out…and I knew there would be water crossings. (Not my favorite hiking situations.) As a Continental Divide Trail section hiker, my husband has much more experience, so I trusted him to keep us on the right path.
The challenges, besides the water crossings, were some long uphill climbs and the steep downhill sections. Because of the posted warnings, this was the first time we’ve carried bear spray. Fortunately no bear sightings, but we do know to make lots of noise when in grizzly bear country. Highlights were seeing a bald eagle fly right overhead, visiting a backcountry geyser basin when we didn’t see anyone all day, and the early morning mist on the lake. We had an amazing adventure in God’s glorious creation.

A FEW PHOTOS

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Though I didn’t have much time for reading during the vacation, I did enjoy Myra Johnson’s One Glance of Your Eyes.

A touching story of finding love…at just the right time! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Featuring two people with broken dreams and painful pasts, this book brings out a depth of emotions as tiny steps are taken toward forgiveness….and love.

I felt for Carl Anderson’s childhood situation. He’d tried to be a good older brother in a dysfunctional home, but is haunted by what happened. Now he’s a counselor in a transitional home for men and wants to add a dog therapy program. When Rae Caldwell becomes Carl’s new supervisor, she is reluctant to support Carl’s new idea. They must find a way to work together despite raw emotions from past difficulties.

I really felt empathy for the couple because of the traumas they’d each experienced and for Rae while she struggles to find her way back to God. As they stumbled to fix their own issues, I admired their desires to help each other. Plus I love the supportive community of Missoula, Montana, including folks from earlier books, as everyone watches out for their friends. The pups are fun, especially loyal, blue-eyed Frankie. And what a great ending!

I always enjoy author Myra Johnson’s faith-filled stories with deeply touching characters. I highly recommend One Glance of Your Eyes. For more details, check out the author’s website: http://www.MyraJohnson.com.

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And I’ve just started…and already loving…Ruth Logan Herne’s newest release, Kindling Christmas in Wishing Bridge…a return to this warm, small-town community of the earlier books…and it’s Christmastime! For more information, check out the author’s website: http://www.RuthLoganHerne.com.

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And I want to mention a couple of October releases I’m anticipating!

October 1, 2024 What’s the Story, Morning Glory? : A Memoir Devotional with a “Novel” Approach to Practical Christianity by Julie Lessman. The author has an unusual way to deliver a inspiring lessons from the Bible. 1. The Real Story about how she learned spiritual lessons—2. A Novel Story with a scene from one of her books. —3. The Scripture Story listing applicable verses from the Bible. —4. The Takeaway Story pointing out the lessons learned, and —5. The Prayer Story offering a specific prayer. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? For more information, check out the author’s website: http://www.JulieLessman.com.

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October 22, 2024 The Cowboy’S Forgotten Love by Tina Radcliffe.
He finally found the love of his life…Now if only he could remember.
After an accident, rodeo rider Luke Morgan is shocked to discover his memories of the last six months are gone. He remembers his best friend, Harper Reilly, but recent events are a blur….With big career decisions to make, Harper fears they’ve missed their chance. Is it too late to fall in love all over again? For more information, check out the author’s website: www.TinaRadcliffe.com.

AND WE WON’T FORGET #TEATIME TREATS!

After spending the time in Yellowstone, we became huckleberry fanatics. Huckleberry flavor is everywhere! Tea, lemonade, muffins, sauce on blintzes, pancakes, yogurt, and our favorite…Huckleberry Ice Cream. So please help yourself to a double-dip of huckleberry ice cream. Mmmm!

Thank you for joining me for #Teatime, my book announcement, and reviews of favorite authors’ newest releases. Please tell me about times you have stepped outside your comfort zone and found a great adventure.

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

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