Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann. This book releases next week on June 4 and is so good! Be sure to come back Tuesday to check out my review.

About the Book

She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery?

The media spotlight is the last thing art thief and forger Sophie Williams needs. But when one of three long-missing royal portraits turns up in Germany at her best friend’s art gallery, the spotlight is exactly what she gets. Since the tragic deaths of Princess Johanna of Neuhansberg and her two children forty years ago, the whereabouts of these portraits have been unknown . . . and the timing of their reappearance—just days before a new prince’s coronation—reignites questions surrounding the infamous accident.

Then Sophie’s best friend vanishes, and a rumor about hidden treasure connected to the paintings surfaces, seemingly confirmed by a cryptic message on the back of the first canvas. Convinced that finding the other two portraits will lead to her friend, Sophie begins a twisty investigation that pits her against other ruthless treasure hunters, a handsome investigator who seems to dog her trail at every turn, and a mysterious group that offers help, wearing an emblem identical to one on the painting.

From Germany’s grand castles and soaring cathedrals through the Alps to the canals of Venice, Sophie must choose her allies carefully if she hopes to find the portraits, rescue her best friend—and perhaps save a throne—before time runs out.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday (From the Prologue)

Along the Western Coast of Italy - 1750

She ran down the quiet streets, her fine leather slippers making no sound on the worn cobblestones. She skidded past another alley and risked a quick look over her shoulder.

Friday 56

He swallowed the lump of emotion that clogged his throat. He couldn't give up. Not until he had the painting.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: No Man Left Behind (The Worlds Behind #5) by W.R. Gingell

About the Book

Revenge. Restoration. Romance. A few deadly wishes.

The Glass Elder wants wishes. Three, to be exact. Athelas wants a way in, and those wishes may well be that way—but giving the Elder what he wants means putting Camellia in harm’s way. It also means that YeoWoo will have to choose between trusting Athelas one last time, and taking a bite at suddenly hot revenge that could swiftly go cold if she misses her chance.

Now that revenge is within reach of her teeth, will YeoWoo manage to tear out one last, bloody heart? Can Athelas put aside his own ends for long enough to protect all those dearest to him from threats outside—and from himself?

Can a family that began in blood survive one too many wishes and a far-too-wily Elder, or will the world as they know it fall apart into the chaos of wishes-gone-wrong?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I'm sad to see this series end, but what a perfect conclusion! I’ve loved getting to know Athelas better and seeing different sides to him. And I’ve especially loved seeing the growth he's experienced. His road to redemption has been rocky at times, but what a remarkable journey it’s been!

This is one of the best “endings” I’ve ever read. Goodness, it was so emotional, but absolute perfection. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. I have tears in my eyes just thinking about it again. Needless to say, I loved it!

This is not a standalone. I’d recommend starting with the City Between series since they’re so interconnected. If you’re a fan of twisty urban fantasy, you’ll be hooked!

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: What We Hide (Tupelo Grove #1) by Colleen Coble & Rick Acker

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring What We Hide (Tupelo Grove #1) by Colleen Coble & Rick Acker releasing July 2.

About the Book

Family secrets. Historical wrongs. And the truths that refuse to stay buried.

Savannah Webster is trying to find her way forward. She and her husband, Hez, have been separated since tragedy tore them apart and he began numbing his grief and guilt with alcohol. She returned to Tupelo Grove University, which her family helped found over a century ago, to teach history.

When Hez turns up in her classroom asking for a second chance, she rejects the idea immediately. But twenty-four hours later she’s under suspicion for murder, and since Hez is the best attorney she knows, she reluctantly asks him for help. They suspect the murder is tied to someone selling off the university’s pre-Columbian artifacts, but the secrets go much deeper than they realize.

The only hope they’ve got is each other, and they’re going to have to put their past behind them if they’re going to stay alive long enough to uncover all that’s hidden.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Estuary (Oceans of Time #1) by Lisa T. Bergren

About the Book

Can a family bond stand the test of time?

Lady Tiliani Forelli is the epitome of the She-Wolves who raised her, an adept archer with a mind of her own. It is long past time for her to wed, but she deems each young lord who comes to bid for her hand lacking. With battles upon their border, and rumors of war growing louder on every front, Lady Forelli’s decision could secure her kingdom’s peace . . . or bring about its destruction.

Centuries later, history major Luciana Betarrini takes a summer job alongside her twin, Domenico, as a period actor at Castello Forelli in Italy. As incoming college seniors, this might be their last chance to spend meaningful time together, so she’s soaking up every minute. But when Nico's theory that their lost Betarrini relatives have traveled through time becomes potentially real—and they might be able to follow—Luci fears they’ll be forever divided.

In this new trilogy, author Lisa T. Bergren is extending the world originally created in her bestselling River of Time series.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I’m a huge fan of the original River of Time series. In fact, it’s the series that got me hooked on Christian Fiction in the first place. I was so excited when I heard about this new series. A little bit nervous too. How could it possibly live up to the original? I had no need to worry, though. This was another fantastic and thrilling trip back to medieval Italy.

I liked all the new characters. I’ll admit that I was a little suspicious of one of them, but I genuinely enjoyed getting to know all of them. And I loved seeing some old favorite characters. It was so nice to catch up with them!

There are two POVs: Luciana from the present and Tiliani from medieval times. I really enjoyed having two different perspectives. They both had distinct voices, so I had no trouble keeping them straight.

This book is good for old fans and new alike! It’s not a requirement to read the original series. It stands alone perfectly fine, but I'm sure you’ll be eager for another trip back to medieval Italy! I know I am!

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: No Man Left Behind (The Worlds Behind #5) by W.R. Gingell

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring No Man Left Behind (The Worlds Behind #5) by W.R. Gingell. This is the last book in the series and oh my goodness! What an ending! 

About the Book

Revenge. Restoration. Romance. A few deadly wishes.

The Glass Elder wants wishes. Three, to be exact. Athelas wants a way in, and those wishes may well be that way—but giving the Elder what he wants means putting Camellia in harm’s way. It also means that YeoWoo will have to choose between trusting Athelas one last time, and taking a bite at suddenly hot revenge that could swiftly go cold if she misses her chance.

Now that revenge is within reach of her teeth, will YeoWoo manage to tear out one last, bloody heart? Can Athelas put aside his own ends for long enough to protect all those dearest to him from threats outside—and from himself?

Can a family that began in blood survive one too many wishes and a far-too-wily Elder, or will the world as they know it fall apart into the chaos of wishes-gone-wrong?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

"You are certainly an agent of chaos," Athelas said, quite calmly.

Friday 56

"Can you deal with thirty enforcers?" she asked. "Because I can see them, now. They're coming along the second road from Jaegung office, and they look like a mob."

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Warped on a Moon Trek by Diane Vallere

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Warped on a Moon Trek by Diane Vallere releasing June 25. I love this sci-fi cozy mystery series and was so excited when I saw there was a new installment coming out! 

About the Book

Tomorrow is yesterday and next week may never come...

Sylvia Stryker is the Moon Unit Corporation’s employee of the month. Impressive, since her side gig solving intergalactic mysteries takes up most of her time. But she is put to a new test after her mentor, Neptune, flies through a wormhole to meet with a reclusive scientist about the faulty chip powering their lunar module. The contact has been hiding from accusations of murder on another planet. Even more startling is the identity of the scientist: a family member Sylvia never thought she’d see again.

When Neptune’s space pod vanishes into a parallel timeline, Sylvia is quick to follow, but a face-to-face with her younger self threatens her reality. She is thrust into a time-bending journey where the unsolved murder becomes central to her mission. With a missing boss, a malfunctioning navigational system, and a family reunion hanging in the balance, Sylvia’s race against time just might save the world…or eradicate it from existence.

Can Sylvia repair the circuits of time, or will she stay lost in space with a killer?

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen

About the Book

Cross the grid. Survive the storms. Let your destiny burn.

When mankind’s attempts to control nature backfire, Texas descends into a wasteland. Storms rage and ravenous beasts roam the Outer Grid. The only safe havens rest inside the tech-obsessed domed cities. But when her parents are murdered inside the Plex City dome, seventeen-year-old Juniper Conway wants revenge.

Ties to her extended family threaten to pull her back as she runs from city to city. The Plex is endangering its citizens by legalizing a deadly nano drug, and Juniper’s family needs her help to deliver the counteragent. Saving the city who orphaned her goes against everything she stands for. The only way out is to brave the wasteland.

Juniper joins a shipping crew fearless enough to transport food across the Outer Grid. But when a string of bad luck turns lethal, she fears something, or someone, is dragging her back to the Plex. As her world sinks into chaos, Juniper must decide if revenge is worth the lives of the crew she has come to love.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This story takes place in a dystopian Texas, 200 years in the future, filled with chaotic weather, hi-tech gadgets, body upgrades, teleportation devices, and so much more. That’s just scratching the surface of this intriguing and slightly terrifying read. This book was fantastic. I couldn’t get enough of it and didn’t want it to end.

The worldbuilding was detailed and fascinating. I’ve lived in Texas my whole life, so it was interesting (and kinda scary) to imagine a future like this one.

I liked Juna right off, but it took me a little while to warm up to Dax. He was a little too arrogant for my liking, but by the end of the book, I was fully in his corner.

This was a loose retelling of Jonah, which I loved! What a neat twist to the story!

This book constantly surprised me. I never knew what to expect next, and I loved that! It kept me on my toes! There was one twist that left me stunned!

This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. I’m eager to read more from this talented author.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Estuary (Oceans of Time #1) by Lisa T. Bergren

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring Estuary (Oceans of Time #1) by Lisa T. Bergren.

About the Book

Can a family bond stand the test of time?

Lady Tiliani Forelli is the epitome of the She-Wolves who raised her, an adept archer with a mind of her own. It is long past time for her to wed, but she deems each young lord who comes to bid for her hand lacking. With battles upon their border, and rumors of war growing louder on every front, Lady Forelli’s decision could secure her kingdom’s peace . . . or bring about its destruction.

Centuries later, history major Luciana Betarrini takes a summer job alongside her twin, Domenico, as a period actor at Castello Forelli in Italy. As incoming college seniors, this might be their last chance to spend meaningful time together, so she’s soaking up every minute. But when Nico's theory that their lost Betarrini relatives have traveled through time becomes potentially real—and they might be able to follow—Luci fears they’ll be forever divided.

In this new trilogy, author Lisa T. Bergren is extending the world originally created in her bestselling River of Time series.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

In all my daydreams about time traveling to medieval Italy, none included being in a wagon, bouncing over cobblestone streets, with my hands tied behind my back.

Friday 56

"Aurelio would skin me alive if he learned I had escorted you outside the gates, unarmed. Let me get my broadsword. And four of our men ready to keep watch over us. They shall alert us if anyone approaches."

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann releasing June 4.

About the Book

She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery?

The media spotlight is the last thing art thief and forger Sophie Williams needs. But when one of three long-missing royal portraits turns up in Germany at her best friend’s art gallery, the spotlight is exactly what she gets. Since the tragic deaths of Princess Johanna of Neuhansberg and her two children forty years ago, the whereabouts of these portraits have been unknown . . . and the timing of their reappearance—just days before a new prince’s coronation—reignites questions surrounding the infamous accident.

Then Sophie’s best friend vanishes, and a rumor about hidden treasure connected to the paintings surfaces, seemingly confirmed by a cryptic message on the back of the first canvas. Convinced that finding the other two portraits will lead to her friend, Sophie begins a twisty investigation that pits her against other ruthless treasure hunters, a handsome investigator who seems to dog her trail at every turn, and a mysterious group that offers help, wearing an emblem identical to one on the painting.

From Germany’s grand castles and soaring cathedrals through the Alps to the canals of Venice, Sophie must choose her allies carefully if she hopes to find the portraits, rescue her best friend—and perhaps save a throne—before time runs out.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Loyally, Luke by Pepper Basham

About the Book
Sometimes love means embracing the good, the bad . . . and even the impossible.

Dear Reader,

My name is Luke Edgewood, and there are few things in life that I require. Mainly black coffee. And flannel. And lots of solitude. And my dogs, Chewy and Indie. What I don’t need is romance, so I have no plans to change my thirty-year-old bachelor status anytime soon.

But my youngest sister thinks that by accepting a short-term construction job in the small European country of Skymar, I’m going to follow along in her footsteps and discover my own romantic adventure. Nope. Bah humbug. The End. This time, her rom-com-movie senses are totally wrong.

Or maybe not. Because I’ve met a Grace Kelly look-alike who is annoying . . . until she isn’t. But she is impossible. As in, nothing can happen between us because she is a literal princess. Even though that’s easy to forget when we’re working together to restore a castle-like orphanage in a secluded mountain town and “forced proximity” includes a small closet, a secret one-hundred-year-old journal, and the tactile memory of an off-limits royal in my arms.

Basically, the whole situation has turned into an ooey gooey magical snow globe of romantic tropes complete with cute kids and an actual ball. Now, even my sentences are starting to sound like mush. Ugh. Send high levels of testosterone my way—I’m going to need it.

Loyally,

Luke

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This has been one of my most anticipated books of the year. Ever since his very first appearance in Authentically, Izzy, I’ve been so eager for Luke’s story. And, oh my goodness! It exceeded all expectations!

I was completely hooked from the very first page when Luke asks us not to read the book because it’s embarrassing. Oh my! I couldn’t read fast enough.

This book made me smile and laugh so much, but it also had a lot of depth and emotion too, which I loved.

Luke and Ellie didn’t make the best first impression on each other, which made for a hilarious meet-cute. From then on, it was fun watching them get to know each other. Their banter was great!

I loved that some of the story was told in the form of texts, emails, and news articles. That’s one of the things I’ve loved the most about this series. Well, that and the characters, the setting, and the romances. This has been a top-notch series that I’m sad to see end. I’ve loved it so much. If you’re new to the series, be sure to start with book one. You'll be hooked!

I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen. 

About the Book

Cross the grid. Survive the storms. Let your destiny burn.

When mankind’s attempts to control nature backfire, Texas descends into a wasteland. Storms rage and ravenous beasts roam the Outer Grid. The only safe havens rest inside the tech-obsessed domed cities. But when her parents are murdered inside the Plex City dome, seventeen-year-old Juniper Conway wants revenge.

Ties to her extended family threaten to pull her back as she runs from city to city. The Plex is endangering its citizens by legalizing a deadly nano drug, and Juniper’s family needs her help to deliver the counteragent. Saving the city who orphaned her goes against everything she stands for. The only way out is to brave the wasteland.

Juniper joins a shipping crew fearless enough to transport food across the Outer Grid. But when a string of bad luck turns lethal, she fears something, or someone, is dragging her back to the Plex. As her world sinks into chaos, Juniper must decide if revenge is worth the lives of the crew she has come to love.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

The day Plex City burns to ash will be the best day of my life.

Friday 56

A dull ache throbs at the base of my skull when I wake. It takes forever to open my eyes. When I do, I'm met with a blur of gray and blinding white.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Writer on the Wall : A Suddenly Sadie Adventure by Joanne Bischof

About the Book

An uplifting series for women who come for the friendships and stay for the views.

Ever since training for her first indoor rock climbing competition, writer and editor, Sadie McGillis has embraced a new love of the sport and the confidence of trying something new. And now that this Colorado book-lover is writing her first novel about these adventures on the wall, and in the single life—the pressure is on!

So begins the second book in the Suddenly Sadie series, where a single woman continues her quest for joy. Along the way, she’ll discover new-found friends, unexpected challenges, a rugged and kind rock climbing instructor, and the faith to make sense of it all. A light-hearted inspirational read about overcoming our fears, and embracing the challenges God has placed before us. Both in life . . . and in the pages. A celebration of adventures for Christian single women, the Suddenly Sadie series is great for women of all ages and walks of life!

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a sweet, wholesome, and feel-good read. I loved it so much! It was exactly what I needed. It was so inspiring and uplifting.

Sadie is relatable and easy to root for. I love that she’s forging her own path, trying new things, and conquering old fears. I was so excited for her. It felt like I was listening to an old friend tell me her story.

It was so nice to read about women supporting other women instead of tearing each other down, especially considering everything going on in the world right now.

This series is not to be missed. Be sure to start with book one. You’ll be hooked and cheering for Sadie as well.

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Cole and Laila Are Just Friends: A Love Story by Bethany Turner

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Cole and Laila Are Just Friends: A Love Story by Bethany Turner releasing June 4.

About the Book

Cole and Laila have been inseparable since they could crawl. And they've never thought about each other that way. Except for when they have. Rarely. Once in a while, sure. But seriously . . . hardly ever.

Cole Kimball and Laila Olivet have been best friends their entire lives. Cole is the only person (apart from blood relatives) who's seen Laila in her oversized, pink, plastic, Sophia Loren glasses. Laila is always the first person to taste test any new dish Cole creates in his family's restaurant . . . even though she has the refined palate of a kindergartener. Most importantly, Cole and Laila are always talking. About everything.

When Cole discovers a betrayal from his recently deceased grandfather that shatters his world, staying in Adelaide Springs, Colorado, is suddenly unfathomable. But Laila loves her life in their small mountain town and can't imagine ever living anywhere else. She loves serving customers who tip her with a dozen fresh eggs. She loves living within walking distance of all her favorite people. And she's very much not okay with the idea of not being able to walk to her very favorite person.

Still, when Cole toys with moving across the country to New York City, she decides to support her best friend--even as she secretly hopes she can convince him to stay home. And not just for his killer chocolate chip pancakes. Because she loves him. As a friend. Just as a friend. Right?

They make a deal: Laila won't beg him to stay, and Cole won't try to convince her to come with him. They have one week in New York before their lives change forever, and all they have to do is enjoy their time together and pretend none of this is happening. But it's tough to ignore the very inconvenient feelings blooming out of nowhere. In both of them. And these potentially friendship-destroying feelings, once out in the open, have absolutely no take-backs.

If When Harry Met Sally had a quippy literary love child with Gilmore Girls' Luke and Lorelai, you'd get Cole and Laila. Just . . . don't tell them that.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: The Bungalow on Shadow Road (The Beach House Mystery Series #4) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

Even the best opportunities come at a price . . .

When Melinda Marx receives a mysterious invitation to visit the quaint, historic oceanfront inn in Carova, NC, where she spent her childhood summers, it seems like the perfect opportunity to regroup after her painful divorce. But when she arrives, she learns this is no ordinary beach getaway.

The inn’s owner has died, and four strangers with their own invitations are already there waiting for answers.

Deputy Micah Warner never got over the woman who broke his heart years ago. Now, Melinda—one of five seemingly random visitors handpicked for a high-stakes competition to win the profitable inn—is back in town. But before Micah can come to terms with her sudden appearance, the surprise reunion takes an ominous turn.

Someone wants the contestants gone, and when people start disappearing, the question is no longer who will win but, rather, who will survive?

Amazon / Goodreads

Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting

MY THOUGHTS

This was another exciting mystery from Christy Barritt. The compelling prologue had me invested and eager to figure out who the mysterious villain was. There were many possibilities, but I was completely shocked by the reveal.

I never really connected with the characters, but the mystery kept me fully engaged. I thought the competition for the inn was really interesting and wish it had been fleshed out a little more. But, all in all, I enjoyed this story. The books in this series are complete standalones, so they can be read in any order.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Writer on the Wall : A Suddenly Sadie Adventure by Joanne Bischof

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring Writer on the Wall : A Suddenly Sadie Adventure by Joanne Bischof. I loved the first book, Sadie on the Rocks, so I was excited to catch up with Sadie and see what she was up to in this sequel. I'm loving it. It's just as good as the first one. 

About the Book

An uplifting series for women who come for the friendships and stay for the views.

Ever since training for her first indoor rock climbing competition, writer and editor, Sadie McGillis has embraced a new love of the sport and the confidence of trying something new. And now that this Colorado book-lover is writing her first novel about these adventures on the wall, and in the single life—the pressure is on!

So begins the second book in the Suddenly Sadie series, where a single woman continues her quest for joy. Along the way, she’ll discover new-found friends, unexpected challenges, a rugged and kind rock climbing instructor, and the faith to make sense of it all. A light-hearted inspirational read about overcoming our fears, and embracing the challenges God has placed before us. Both in life . . . and in the pages. A celebration of adventures for Christian single women, the Suddenly Sadie series is great for women of all ages and walks of life!

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

They say the main character in every story believes something untrue about themselves. If I were the heroine in a novel, would I believe a lie of my own making? It's hard to say when what we think feels true.

Friday 56

Now it's time to start for home. Today, the autumn sun feels brighter. The air all around more fragrant and crisp. Or maybe there's just a difference in me. There's a shadow that I've slowly been saying goodbye to here. The one that I invited to follow me around as a constant reminder that I'm weak and disappointing in so many areas of my life. That taking risks only brings failure and that I shouldn't dream too big. Instead, how refreshing could it be to leave this place free again? Free to dream. Free to try.

What have you been reading lately?