And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.
~~Romans 8:28 (KJV)
I’m preparing to leave my soft, snuggly comfort zone….with two different types of adventures. Actually LEAP past the boundaries of my cozy life. Why? Because great things can happen outside that safe spot. Maybe there will be some stumbles, but it’s possible amazing blessings wait ahead.
My father’s favorite Scripture came to mind as I thought about my upcoming adventures. Romans 8:28 reminds us that our Lord will be with us as we take the next steps into the unknown, if we love and strive to serve Him.
HINT: ADVENTURE NUMBER ONE
Healing Hearts: A Turquoise Treasures Romance
Two hurting hearts…
One shattered and one burdened with guilt.
Can these hearts be healed by faith and love?
An Old West Beauty and the Beast tale….
🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻
HINT: ADVENTURE NUMBER TWO
Next month, I’ll give you more details about how this challenging-for-me adventure turns out for me and my husband…..definitely beyond MY comfort zone, but within his.
🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻
UPCOMING BOOK RELEASE RECOMMENDATIONS
One Glance of Your Eyes: A Montana Mercies Romance by Myra Johnson releases August 20 (with a preorder early bird price.)
One chance…one glance…and their lives will never be the same.
Can two wounded souls find the courage to open their hearts? With God’s help, along with a very persistent canine, Carl and Rae may discover that it’s never too late for a second chance at love.
Escape to scenic Montana in this faith-filled later-in-life romance novel, and be inspired!
The Con: Book 2 of An Organized Crime Cozy Mystery by Jackie Layton debuts August 27.
Professional organizer Kate Sloan is hired by Ben Houser to organize his office at Seaside Hideaway Resort on Fox Island. Ben tells everybody he’s planning to revamp the resort. Ben throws money around and convinces people to invest with him. The first problem is, Ben’s a con man. The second problem is, Kate finds his dead body. The killer believes Kate has incriminating evidence, and she must solve the mystery before she’s next on the hitman’s list.
Kindling Christmas in Wishing Bridge by Ruth Logan Herne is available September 10.
The last place on Earth that Lucas Talbot wanted to hang his hat was in Wishing Bridge. He’d slain old dragons, shelved the bad memories and banished the ghosts of Christmas past but here he was. And here she was…And maybe…just maybe…it was meant to be.
Thank you for stopping by. Did you step outside your comfort zone this summer? I hope you felt joy as you went beyond the boundaries or enjoyed your place in the world with a good book and a cup of tea…or a tall glass of an iced beverage!
With prayers and blessings,
Sherida
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But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
~~1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV)
Today I’m delighted to review a couple of books by two of my favorite authors….an inspirational romance and a cozy mystery. Plus I’ll include some photos of a recent solo writing retreat where a great deal of editing was accomplished. Yay! I’m serving some always popular brownies for a tea treat and your choice of coffee or tea (with honey)….iced or hot.
HER SON’S FAITHFUL COMPANION by Jill Weatherholt
Her son needs love and friendship
Now she’s found the answer to their prayers……
Former barrel racer Caitlyn Calloway wants her epileptic son to have everything—even if it means selling her family home. Problem is, the place is in disrepair. Her former crush, service dog trainer Logan Beckett, offers to help. But letting Logan and his dogs into their lives makes the past almost impossible to leave behind…especially when it opens the door to love.
MY REVIEW
I loved this second chance romance!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book touches so many emotions! It tugs at heartstrings on almost every page! A strong mother who strives to do the best for her adopted son. Adorable dogs who greet everyone with wagging tails. A misplaced duck with a unique personality. A handsome, compassionate cowboy who has suffered a tragic loss. And a small town community filled with warmth and neighborly spirit. I simply loved it!
Caitlyn Calloway reluctantly returns to her hometown to sell her childhood home. She hopes the sale will cover the enormous medical bills she faces from her son’s epilepsy diagnosis. She is surprised to discover service dog trainer Logan Beckett, a man she knew during her rodeo competition days, lives on a ranch nearby.
The characters in this story definitely found their way into my heart. I admire Caitlyn as she strives to provide a good life for her son, Henry. Even though Logan has experienced heartbreak, he wants to help others. He is especially kind and understanding toward young Henry. As the tender romance develops between Caitlyn and Logan, my reader heart was touched by the warmth of their relationship. The family bonds, the reliance on faith and the selflessness of the community of Bluebell, Colorado are all components of this great story. I read with tears and smiles as twists and turns revealed a perfect ending.
If you want to read an engaging story filled with the ups and downs of life, you’ll want to read Jill Weatherholt’s sweet and memorable romance! Highly, highly recommended!
Favorite quotes:
But time spent with Logan and experiencing small-town living had made her realize what was truly important. The love of family and friends mattered most.
Sometimes the unexpected events in life made the greatest memories.
*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.
To learn more about Jill Weatherholt and her books, visit her website: www.jillweatherholt.com
And the second book…..CLOVER COVERED CORPSE by Jackie Layton
Emma Justice never imagines working at the farmers market on a normal Saturday morning will lead to her second murder investigation. Revenge, greed, and hatred are some of the motives Emma must sift through to catch the killer.
MY REVIEW
Definitely an engaging cozy mystery! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author Jackie Layton knows how to write cozy mysteries which keep the reader guessing! There are many different suspects who have all sorts of motives. I enjoyed scrutinizing the suspicious folks and letting my mind swirl with the possibilities. However, I never could decide who did it. Great fun to read this intriguing mystery!
Emma Justice is a flower farmer in Lutz, Texas and recently solved a murder in the small community. When a local restaurateur is found dead and a couple of friends are implicated, Emma is asked to help solve the crime.
I enjoyed the details of investigating all the possible suspects and their motives. This small town is filled with many interesting characters. The simmering relationship between Emma and Jake Hunter, a contractor, is a sweet addition. I look forward to more Jackie Layton books featuring these characters!
If you are a cozy mystery reader, I think you’ll find Clover Covered Corpse will grab your attention as you try to solve the crime. Isn’t that what makes reading cozies a great experience?
*I was given a copy of this book by the author with no requirement to write a positive review. This is my honest opinion.
As I’ve mentioned before, I am my husband’s Trail Angel as he section hikes the Continental Divide Trail.
I drop him off at a trail head and pick him up after he finishes a section. This time he backpacked for two nights, so I stayed at Abiquiu Inn, a delightful, peace-filled sanctuary.
During this quiet time, I was able to focus on my manuscript, making the changes my editor/beta reader suggested, as I relaxed with the view from the window in my room.
During editing breaks, I could enjoy the many beautiful garden spots.
The picturesque kiva fireplace warmed my room up nicely and made for a perfect photo op for my published short story.
At the end of the trip…..and after the completion of almost all the edits….I celebrated by visiting Ghost Ranch, the area where New Mexican artist Georgia O’Keeffe found much of her inspiration. (Since there is a photography policy at the complex, I’m only posting photos I took off property.) I’m sharing photos of the nearby colorful cliffs which delighted the accomplished artist. After walking around Ghost Ranch, I understand why this area inspired her artwork. I highly recommend a stay at this refreshing retreat center.
I’ll leave you with a #bookstagram photo taken on a recent camping trip in the forest….my kind of reading place!
Thank you for joining me for my teatime reviews and news of my personal writing retreat. Do you have a special place where you go to read or write….or just to sit quietly? I hope your summer is filled with intriguing books and peaceful retreats.
With prayers and blessings, 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!
As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
Welcome to teatime and my review of The Cowboy’s Secret Past written by Tina Radcliffe, one of my favorite authors! I’m delighted to introduce you to the third Lazy M Ranch book. I’m serving yummy chocolate cookies with your choice of beverage. Please enjoy!
ABOUT THE BOOK
He’s not the same man he was—
But maybe now he’s ready to be a father.
Since leaving his wild rodeo days behind, rancher Trevor Morgan has sobered up and built a faith-filled life. So he’s shocked when the woman caring for his grandfather intrudes on that solitude. Nurse Hope Burke has hidden motives for coming to the Lazy M Ranch—she believes Trevor is the father of her orphaned nephew. Can a loving aunt and a wary cowboy change a little boy’s life forever?
MY REVIEW
An endearing and entertaining story of grace! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love a book which shows an example of God’s unwavering grace….and this is such a book! The Cowboy’s Secret Past is an enjoyable (LOL at times) story. Author Tina Radcliffe’s writing always touches my heart with a challenging dilemma, then comforting hope as the situation resolves through faith and forgiveness. Her trademark humor and endearing characters give me smiles throughout the pages.
The Morgan brothers of the Lazy M Ranch have enchanted my heart with their compassionate and selfless personalities. Trevor, the cowboy in this third book, has made some mistakes. Reformed and faithful, he now must face past issues. And Hope Burke, his grandfather’s new no-nonsense nurse, is the woman who comes along to make him confront his errors….including recognizing the need to be vulnerable and to be open to love again. And can Trevor convince Hope she and her young nephew belong in Homestead Pass, Oklahoma?
Along with this memorable story, I especially liked the additional characters. Bess Lowder, ranch housekeeper and cook extraordinaire (cinnamon rolls, anyone?) adds charm and humor to the story. Gramps, the Morgan patriarch Gus, is grumpy, but in a funny way, and lovingly offers wisdom to his family. Patch, the puppy, is adorable. And young Cole touches our emotions as he deals with his losses and enthusiastically embraces hard work on the ranch. Cameo appearances by the other Morgan brothers adds to the warmth of real life family ties.
If you like meaningful stories of strong family bonds with engaging characters living their faith every day plus tender happily-ever-after endings, this is the book for you. I highly recommend The Cowboy’s Secret Past …or all the books….by author Tina Radcliffe.
Favorite quotes:
“We’ve all got history.” Hope shrugged. “It’s about how that history makes us or breaks us and dictates our tomorrows.”
“The most important thing is that I’m doing what the Lord put in my heart….. All you have to do is trust that He will equip you for the job He called you to do.”
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Tina Radcliffe is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of contemporary romance. She is an ACFW and Romance Writers of America Honor Roll member and a four-time ACFW Carol Award finalist. Tina is the author of twenty inspirational romances for Harlequin HarperCollins, and has co-authored four cozy mysteries.
For more information, social media links and to sign up for a fun newsletter, visit her webpage: https://www.tinaradcliffe.com. The recipe for the featured Double Chocolate White Chip Cookies is found under the blog page and the post “Recipes from The Cowboy’s Secret Past” plus there are other recipes included.
VIEWS FROM THE TRAIL
As many of my readers know, my husband and I are hikers. We just completed a 100-mile trail challenge ending in February. While on our Arizona treks, we saw many of God’s amazing desert creations and enjoyed the stunning landscapes of our region. Below are some of my photos from our recent hikes. I’m sure you can guess why the last one is my favorite!
HOT AIR BALLOONS IN THE DESERTCAIRNSMICHELIN MAN SAGUARO CACTUS ROCK MESSAGE-“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” ~~John 16:33 (NIV)HIKING BUDDIES
Thank you for visiting today. Please enjoy another cookie before you go. May you be filled with peace and contentment. With prayers and blessings, Sherida
*To leave a comment, click on the date below, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting. Thank you!
But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
Matthew 19:26 (KJV)
Welcome to teatime! Today I’m serving teddy bear-shaped cardamom sugar cookies (made by my granddaughters) while chatting about Their Inseparable Bond, the newest romance by one of my favorite authors, Jill Weatherholt.
ABOUT THE BOOK
They’re a mismatched family…But their hearts line up just right.
Training service dogs is single dad Jake Beckett’s calling. He’s determined to train rambunctious puppy Callie to help his ailing friend Myrna live independently with her growing blindness. Myrna’s granddaughter, Olivia Hart, isn’t easily convinced, but Jake, his twins and Callie are an incredibly persuasive team. If Olivia agrees to give Callie a chance, will working with Jake risk her lifelong dreams?
MY REVIEW
I loved this absolutely incredible story of trusting God’s plan! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When emergency room doctor Olivia Hart goes to Bluebell Canyon, Colorado to move her grandmother to the big city, Jake Beckett, widower and single-dad to twins, tries to convince her to let her grandmother live independently with modifications he makes to the older woman’s home plus the additional aid of a service dog. While helping train the new service puppy, Olivia falls in love with Jake and his two kids.
I enjoyed the words of wisdom sprinkled throughout the pages and the realistic lessons of being a Puppy Raiser. The six-year-old twins hit all the emotional buttons of childlike exuberance and sympathy for their situation.
So many sweet moments in this story warmed my heart. The interactions with the children, the touching memories reflected from the past and the tender shared moments of falling in love. The retelling of an engagement proposal was laugh-out-loud charming. I delighted in the small community of Bluebell Canyon where everyone cares for each other….celebrating joys together and working through difficulties.
The ending is precious….with a perfect epilogue which brought tears to my eyes. I’m so glad there will be more stories set in the charming Colorado town as we get to know more of the townsfolk….a group of compassionate, faithful and hopeful people….reminding us to trust God’s plan. I highly recommend Their Inseparable Bond by amazing author Jill Weatherholt.
Favorite quotes:
“That’s what family does. We support each other. We give our time and effort to someone other than ourselves.”
“You need to loosen up a bit, dear. Real life is messy. Everything doesn’t have to be neat and organized.”
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m pleased to offer my honest opinion.
To find out more about Jill Weatherholt and her previous books, visit her website: www.JillWeatherholt.com
TRAVEL TIME
During the Christmas holiday, we were on the road, driving through California. We spent a night in a caboose! Railroad Park Resort in Dunsmuir, California, has a collection of train cars remodeled into lovely accommodations. We stayed in an old Santa Fe caboose and enjoyed our morning coffee and the view while sitting up in the cupola!
The resort also features an elegant dining car serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. I had the outstanding salmon entree with jalapeño blackberry sauce. My husband and I split the luscious chocolate cake for dessert!
Thank you for joining me for teatime, my review of Jill Weatherholt’s newest romance and photos from my Christmas travels. I pray your 2024 is filled with good books, treasured memories and plenty of warm tea with treats.
Blessings,
Sherida
*To leave a comment, click on the date below, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting. Thank you!
Then spake Jesus again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (KJV)
Don’t we all love the various lights of Christmas…the sparkling tree, the Advent wreath, our outside decorations, sitting by the fireside, candlelight church services? All are reminders of THE LIGHT Christmas brought into our lives. May we bring this loving glow to others during this season of celebration….and always!
And who doesn’t love holiday baking? Well, at least eating the treats is enjoyed by most. I like to bring out the festive recipes to celebrate. Today I’m serving Cherry Christmas Cookies with tea in front of a Santa my mother painted. The nativity was made by my father….both treasured decorations.
I pray you walk in the LIGHT as we celebrate Christmas, taking time to treasure moments with family and friends this holiday season….and maybe sample a couple more cookies!
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Philippians 4:7-9 (KJV)
When we’re faced with difficulties and stressful circumstances, it is good to remember our Lord is with us. We find comfort and peace by reading His word. In Philippians, Paul reminds us to think about positive things, then our hearts and minds will be calmed.
My husband and I hike to enjoy God’s creation. We feel His peace when we are outside, surrounded by nature. We recently did a short one-night backpacking trip in Arizona where we felt the calming presence of our Lord.
Seeing the flowers and critters always brings me joy.
Awesome sunrises and sunsets begin and end our outdoor camping days, reminding us of His glorious creation plan.
OCTOBER BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
Reading inspirational books helps encourage our walk. When we read stories about perseverance, forgiveness, trust and hope, we understand our challenges and can empathize with others. This month I have some romantic suspense suggestions.
FAIR HAVEN by Laura Conner Kestner
The characters in this contemporary romance captured my heart. Right from the beginning, I was drawn into the action-packed suspense. Author Laura Conner Kestner skillfully hints at the circumstances surrounding famous musical performer Leah Dean and lawman/rancher Joshua Calhoun. My favorite quote: “I understand that God doesn’t promise we won’t have trouble in life. He does promise He’ll be with us as we face those troubles.”
HOLIDAY MENACE : a novella collection by several authors
I’m currently reading this novella collection of ten romantic suspense stories written by popular Christian authors. All unique and fascinating! “Will Christmas be merry and bright?”
Check out this collection by visiting author Terri Weldon’s website. Navigate to the section labeled “Books” to get more information. http://www.terriweldon.com
Thank you for visiting my blog. Before you go, please sample a Cherry Oatmeal cookie. I recently took these treats to church for our fellowship time. Please mention any prayer requests you have in the comments. May we always bring concerns to our Lord. He hears our requests.
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Join me for a trip to Yellowstone National Park with hiking and a stay at Lake Yellowstone Hotel….plus inspirational romance book recommendations.
My husband and I enjoy historic hotels and hiking. Recently, we combined these two passions on a trip to Yellowstone National Park. To check off a bucket list item, we stayed at the Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Our visit was perfect.
Lake Yellowstone Hotel
Built in 1889, Lake Yellowstone Hotel is the oldest hotel in Yellowstone and is the longest standing lodging in a national park.
Our room at Lake Yellowstone Hotel
The hotel has been updated many times, from its humble beginnings when guests arrived by stagecoach or steamship, to the majestic renovations completed in 2014.
The view from our room!
DINING AND TREATS
Dining room at Lake Yellowstone Hotel
We enjoyed dinner and a breakfast buffet in the formal dining room.
Breakfast at Lake Yellowstone Hotel
Dessert after dinner was huckleberry ice cream! Yummmmm!
Huckleberry ice cream at Lake Yellowstone Hotel
My favorite relaxing area was the sunroom with the stunning view of Lake Yellowstone.
Sunroom at Lake Yellowstone HotelEnjoying the peaceful view from the sunroom at Lake Yellowstone Hotel after a gourmet dinner.
From my smile, you can tell I love sitting in the sunroom…reading, chatting and relaxing.
TREKKING YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
Being hikers, we definitely wanted to hit the trails during our visit.
Grebe Lake Trailhead, Yellowstone National ParkWater crossing on a Yellowstone National Park trail to Cascade Lake.Hiking along a “widow maker” trail where breezes can cause dead trees to come crashing down. We hurried past a few creaking snags as we passed during a wind storm.Grebe Lake, Yellowstone National ParkSunset Lake in Black Sand Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National ParkYellow flowers in Yellowstone National Park
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
Of course for me, vacations always involve reading….even on my tiny iPhone, if necessary. Here are some suggestions:
For romcom readers: Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other by Bethany Turner
With characters who won over my heart, this book is a feel-good, laugh-out-loud romcom jewel. The humor, the friendships and the heartwarming conclusion (plus the SCONES) all come together for a perfect story! Check out her website: https://www.seebethanywrite.com
Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other by Bethany Turner
For cozy mystery readers: Weeding Out Lies by Jackie Layton
I liked the characters (especially ex-Marine Jake), the warm community of the small Texas town setting and the colorful blossoms mentioned throughout the book. Author Jackie Layton’s mystery stories always include intriguing who-done-it plots to solve. Check out her website: https://www.jackielaytoncozyauthor.com
Weeding Out Lies by Jackie Layton
And for inspirational romance readers: Fair Haven by Laura Conner Kestner
Though I’ve just started this book, I’m already captivated by the characters’ lives, the intrigue and curious as to how everything to work out for them. A hidden identity, life on a ranch and a sweet child all add to the enjoyment. I’ve loved other books by award-winning author Laura Conner Kestner, so I highly recommend this recent release! Check out her website: https://www.lauraconnerkestner.com
Fair Haven by Laura Conner Kestner
THANK YOU FOR JOINING ME FOR TEATIME AND A VIRTUAL TRIP TO YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK.
I hope you had a refreshing summer! Please consider sharing this post and subscribing to my blog. Thank you!
With blessings and prayers,
Sherida
Turquoise Remembrance, a scone and tea, with view from Lake Yellowstone Hotel room
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Welcome to teatime and a travel update featuring Tina Radcliffe’s newest romance, The Baby Inheritance. I’m serving cinnamon rolls!
ABOUT THE BABY INHERITANCE
An infant in need…
But she’s a package deal.
After the tragic loss of his best friends, rancher Drew Morgan willingly accepts guardianship of their six-month-old baby—until he learns big-city professor Sadie Ross has temporary custody as well. Opposites in every way, the pair now has eight weeks together on Drew’s ranch to decide who will become the permanent parent. Could this makeshift family turn into something real…before the deadline is up?
MY REVIEW
A heartwarming winner…full of sweet romance, a sweet baby and sweet treats! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tina Radcliffe is a favorite author, and her newest book, The Baby Inheritance, is another heartwarming winner full of sweet romance, a sweet baby and sweet treats!
Self-sufficient college professor, Dr. Sadie Ross, grew up in foster care and has no family, only focusing on her career. Cowboy Drew Morgan, received an architectural degree, but manages his family’s ranch along with a passel full of brothers and Gramps. When these two opposite personalities must decide on the guardianship of a baby with medical issues, many emotions are involved. Who is the best choice to raise this sweet baby girl?
The struggles of adjusting to their new roles as baby caretakers, on top of wanting to make the best decision for baby Mae, are heart-touching as both Sadie and Drew want to honor their friends’ legacy. The choices are very different, with pros and cons to be considered. Selflessly they work through the process as the attraction between them grows.
The Baby Inheritance is the first book in a new series featuring the brothers of the Lazy M Ranch. Author Tina Radcliffe knows how to write strong family stories with engaging true-to-life characters as she adds fun humor, touches of faith and perfect romance…plus a sprinkling of yummy treats featured on the pages. (Yes, I’m a foodie who loves the mention of virtual goodies!)
If you love heartfelt stories of overcoming challenges with faith and hope, this is a not-to-be-missed set of books! I’m already anticipating the upcoming romances of these cowboy brothers and the women who will come to love them.
Favorite quotes:
“The satisfaction of parenting comes at unexpected and cherished moments. While there are many blessings, there are also many challenges.”
“You have to choose to have a happy ending.”
*I received a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m delighted to offer my honest opinion.
ABOUT AUTHOR TINA RADCLIFFE
Publishers Weekly bestselling author, Tina Radcliffe has been dreaming and scribbling for years. Originally from Western NY, she left home for a tour of duty with the Army Security Agency stationed in Augsburg, Germany, and ended up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her past careers include Certified Oncology R.N. and library cataloger.
Tina is a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist and a four-time Carol Award finalist and three-time ACFW Mentor of the Year finalist. A 2014 ACFW Carol Award winner and a 2018 ACFW Mentor of the Year winner, Tina is also on the RWA and ACFW Honor Roll of Best-Selling Authors. In 2019 she won the Holt Medallion for Christmas with the Cowboy. A short story writer, she has sold over three dozen short stories to Woman’s World Magazine.
Visit http://www.Tinaradcliffe.com for more information and to sign up for her newsletter. And be sure to check out her blog where she offers many recipes featured in her stories. Yum!
TEATIME TREATS
I’m serving cinnamon rolls from Holiday Inn Express with Bigelow tea. Why? I wasn’t home to do my usual baking. My husband’s hobby is hiking sections of the Continental Divide Trail, a National Scenic Trail which extends 3,000 miles between Mexico and Canada. Though I join him on some parts, I’m usually my husband’s “trail angel” while he does the hiking. I drop him off at a trailhead and pick him up after he’s finished a section.
The hotel we stayed in recently offered cinnamon rolls during breakfast, so this treat made a good photo with the book. I imagine these are not as good as the cinnamon rolls housekeeper Bess Lowder bakes for her crew in The Baby Inheritance, but I look forward to these sweet treats whenever we stay at a Holiday Inn.
The Baby Inheritance features so many delicious goodies. Do check Tina Radcliffe’s blog to find some of the recipes. Now I’m inspired to resume baking in my kitchen to try them all. Ricotta cookies, chocolate sheet cake, chocolate cookies with macadamia nuts and white chips, cannoli, gooseberry pie, maple bars…yes, plenty of yummy projects to keep me busy.
TRAVELING ALONG THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL
My husband and I share a passion for hiking. Being out in God’s amazing creation inspires us. Here are some photos of the recent trails. As in life, sometimes the trail is easy with well-marked signs, sometimes it’s rocky with stumbling hazards to trip you up, and sometimes it’s just a walk along the road.
Thank you for joining me for my teatime review of The Baby Inheritance by Tina Radcliffe. Don’t you just love stories with babies? What is your favorite treat to bake when you want a snack?
With blessings and prayers, Sherida
*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.
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.
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.
Sherida Stewart 
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