Monday, February 16, 2026

Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presents: Trailbreaker (Prairie Nightingale) by Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare

Trailbreaker (Prairie Nightingale)
by Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare

About Trailbreaker

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Trailbreaker (Prairie Nightingale)
Mystery
2nd in Series
Setting – Wisconsin
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Thomas & Mercer
Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 27, 2026
Print length ‏ : ‎ 299 pages
Paperback
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1662535996
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1662535994
Digital
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1662529801
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0F5RKCRFK

Suspicions that a serial killer is terrorizing a pristine tourist spot draw a single mom and budding private investigator into a twisting and deepening mystery of secrets and murder.

Single mom and newly minted private investigator Prairie Nightingale has opened the doors of her Green Bay, Wisconsin, agency and is ready for work. She and her crew aren’t quite prepared for their first client, though: Bernie Dubicki, a notorious online journalist and not-altogether-reliable provocateur, who claims the idyllic vacation destination of nearby Door County is home to a serial killer.

She’s pinpointed four seemingly unrelated deaths that haven’t raised suspicions for anyone else. But when a college student vanishes, Bernie’s sizable retainer convinces Prairie to help connect the dots. And trusted, flirty FBI agent Foster Rosemare thinks Bernie might be onto something. Prairie never expected her first investigation to be so big—like Dateline big—but she does have an inquiring mind and a knack for seeing things no one else can.

In this case she’ll have to look deep—not only into the secrets of strangers, but into Door County’s woods—to solve a mystery decades in the making.

About Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare

Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare write critically acclaimed, bestselling mystery and romance, usually (but not always) together. They are the authors of the Prairie Nightingale mysteries and the TV Detectives mystery series. If you want more of their stories, check out their queer romances co-written as Mae Marvel, as well as solo work by Ruthie Knox (het romance), Annie Mare (grounded queer paranormal romance), and Robin York (Ruthie’s pen name for New Adult romance). Ruthie and Annie are married and live with two teenagers, two dogs, multiple fish, two glorious cats, four hermit crabs, and a bazillion plants in a very old house with a garden.

Author Links:

Webpage: https://ruthieknoxandanniemare.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/ruthieknox and https://www.facebook.com/anniemareromanceauthor

Instagram: @ruthieknoxromance and @spinsterpress

Purchase Links – Amazon – Bookshop.org – Barnes & Noble –

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 4 – Books1987 – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – Jody’s Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

February 6 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 7 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

February 7 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 8 – Boys’ Mom Reads! – SPOTLIGHT

February 9 – Angel’s Book Nook – SPOTLIGHT

February 10 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

February 10 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

February 11 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 12 – Reading Reality – REVIEW

February 12 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 13 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

February 14 – Sarah Can’t Stop Reading Books – REVIEW

February 15 – The Mystery of Writing – SPOTLIGHT

February 16 – Sarandipity’s – SPOTLIGHT

February 16 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 17 – Deal Sharing Aunt – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Want to Book a Tour?
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Celebrate Lit Presents: Plague of Lies Author: Marbeth Skwarczynski

About the Book

Book: Plague of Lies

Author: Marbeth Skwarczynski

Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

Release Date: January 6, 2026

Plague of Lies

The man who taught him how to live was living a lie.

Scott Andrews was content to be a rule-follower, happily attending church and youth group while planning a future with his beautiful girlfriend, Cindy. He and his friends planned to change the world. But when his mentor is exposed as a fraud, Scott’s life turns upside down. He’s forced to grow up, but unlike the man who betrayed him, Scott is determined to live honestly.

Lauren spent her life believing she was a mistake. Then, on her eighteenth birthday, a letter arrives from the father she’s never met. It seems out of character for a deadbeat dad who wanted nothing to do with her. But with the letter in hand, Lauren’s life suddenly has a purpose. She’ll confront the man and demand to know why he abandoned her so many years before.

It’s time for the truth to come out.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Like many writers, I began as a reader. My favorite authors were those whose styles were realistic and relatable, so when I began creating my first novel in my thirties, I knew that, above all, I wanted my stories to connect with readers.

My first foray into writing was a book about the biblical character Ruth. I spent years rewriting and shelving the book before finally submitting it to Elk Lake Publishing. They loved the book, and helped me prepare it for publication. Now, my work of biblical fiction, Princess of Moab: A Novel of Ruth, is finished and ready to find its readership.

I also have a contemporary Christian fiction series called The Rose Collection. These timely novels spotlight healing after spiritual abuse. I keep my characters grounded in the real world, so while they grow, learn, and seek solutions, they must also confront the detritus of the past. I write what I know, whether firsthand or through close observation, infusing the joy, happiness, and humor that come with spiritual freedom and love. The Rose Collection goes further than the deconstruction of broken spirits to the reconstruction of rescued souls.

My non-fiction book, The Women Who Set the Precedents: An Exploration of the Bible’s Bill of Rights for Women, is a deep dive into the prophecy of Bathsheba. Each chapter explores the life of a biblical woman as she embodies the principles of empowerment, intelligence, and spiritual maturity mentioned in the iconic, but often misapplied, last chapter of Proverbs.

More from Marbeth

I wrote Plague of Lies during school holidays while teaching at my church’s Christian school and raising two teen boys. Some of the conflict in the novel was inspired by the sudden appearance of a youth pastor from another school (my sons played against that school in basketball and football). He joined our church and was immediately placed in leadership positions. Later, it came out that he was fleeing from a bench warrant.

My story follows the fallout after a beloved church leader and mentor is exposed as a fraud and shuffled off to another church. I wanted to explore what happened to one of the students left behind as he attempts to pick up the spiritual pieces of his life.

While the book contains some heavy subject matter, it also offers hope, encouragement, and relatable main characters.

Scott Andrews, a seventeen-year-old who is blindsided by his mentor’s moral failing, has a failing of his own. But, instead of running away, he repents and becomes determined to live his life with complete honesty.

Eighteen years later, the fallout of the lies and betrayal continues as Lauren Andrews-Gianni reconnects with her long-lost father and learns the truth about her birth, why Scott walked away, and how he remembered her during their forced separation.

The rebuilding of Scott and Lauren’s relationship is the crux of the book and serves as a picture of how our Heavenly Father is preparing a home for us

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 4

Simple Harvest Reads, February 5 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 6

Artistic Nobody, February 7 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 8

Guild Master, February 9 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 9

Leslie’s Library Escape, February 10

Fiction Book Lover, February 11 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, February 12

A Reader’s Brain, February 13 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 14

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 15 (Author Interview)

Books Less Travelled, February 16 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, February 16

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, February 17 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

Plague of Lies Celebration Tour Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marbeth is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/vm5xP/plague-of-lies-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, February 15, 2026

Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presents: Dying to Live Here (Estate Sales Mysteries) by Shelley Marsh

Dying to Live Here (Estate Sales Mysteries)
by Shelley Marsh

About Dying to Live Here

Dying to Live Here (Estate Sales Mysteries)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Florida
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Fawkes Press
Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 10, 2026
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1957529516
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0GFNR9XDT

When tech burnout Emma Stewart follows her best friend’s advice to view a quaint beachside home in Harbor Shores, Florida, she expects palm trees, sea breezes, and maybe a fresh start. What she doesn’t expect is to stumble into a murder scene—and become a prime suspect.

With the HOA president lying in a pool of blood and her bestie splattered with the evidence, Emma suddenly finds herself knee-deep in neighborhood secrets, rivalries, and a suspiciously missing knife. Armed with nothing but her dry wit, a talent for digital sleuthing, and an adorable bulldog named Hopper, Emma must navigate a world of nosy neighbors, passive-aggressive happy hours, and one dangerously charming lawyer.

In Harbor Shores, the homes are charming—but the secrets are deadly.

About Shelley Marsh

Shelley Marsh writes laugh-out-loud mysteries set along Florida’s sun-splashed coast. Her forthcoming debut, Dying to Live Here (Feb 10 2026), launches the Estate Sale Mysteries series, pairing clever puzzles with a hint of romance. When she isn’t prowling estate sales for story fodder, Shelley combs beaches and bookstores, searching for treasure.

Website: www.ShelleyMarsh.com

Press Kit: https://writershelleymarsh.com/press-kit/

Facebook: Author Shelley Marsh

Instagram: A1ABeachWriter https://www.instagram.com/a1abeachwriter/

X: https://x.com/shellmarsh

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@BookTokBelle

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@A1ABeachWriter

BlueSky: @shelleymarsh.bsky.social

Purchase Link – Amazon

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 10 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 10 – Books1987 – SPOTLIGHT

February 11 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 12 – Jody’s Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT

February 13 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 13 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 14 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 15 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 16 – Sarandipity’s – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 17 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 18 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

February 19 – Sarah Can’t Stop Reading Books – REVIEW

February 20 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

February 20 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 21 – StoreyBook Reviews – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 21 – Storybook Lady – REVIEW

February 22 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT

February 23 – Salty Inspirations – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 23 – Boys’ Mom Reads! – SPOTLIGHT

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?
Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Want to Book a Tour?
Click Here

Celebrate Lit Presents: The Doctor’s Convenient Marriage Author: Lauralyn Keller

About the Book

Book: The Doctor’s Convenient Marriage

Author: Lauralyn Keller

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: January 20, 2026

She wants the freedom to practice medicine, and he needs a wife. But their bold escape from Boston’s high society rests on a marriage vow neither intended to make real.

Victoria Mountbatten has fought hard to earn her medical degree, but her powerful father uses his influence to block any doctor from hiring her. Faced with an ultimatum—marry a society gentleman or face disinheritance, Tori sees only one path to freedom. She makes a bold proposition to Dr. Harrison Blake, a colleague she’s worked alongside for years: a plan that will take them far from Boston’s stifling society.

Harrison Blake has always dreamed of building a hospital in the untamed West where he can truly help people. But his inheritance comes with a catch—he must marry before his thirtieth birthday. So even though Tori’s proposal is shocking, a marriage of convenience may be the perfect solution for both of them.

In the quiet moments of Harmony Springs, feelings grow and lines blur. Can their partnership blossom into true love, or will the walls around their hearts destroy the fragile trust they’ve built?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lauralyn Keller loves to combine history and romance in stories that touch the heart. She lives in beautiful Colorado and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, hiking, and reading.

More from Lauralyn

You might have noticed all three books in the Second Chances in Harmony Springs series feature a marriage of convenience. While that was partly for continuity, it also spoke to my own heart.

I love this trope. There’s something beautiful about the type of romance where two people agree to something practical and unemotional, only to slowly discover all the messy, tender, unexpected feelings they absolutely did not plan for. It’s a popular trope because beneath the external circumstances—inheritance rules, social expectations, survival needs—lies a universal truth: sometimes love grows in the unlikeliest places.

For me, the appeal isn’t just the forced proximity or the slow-burn tension, though I love both. It’s the way a practical arrangement forces two people to reveal their truest selves. A marriage of convenience strips away the excitement of courtship and goes straight to the heart of compatibility. The characters must ask: Can we build a life together? Can we rely on each other? Can we trust each other with our hopes, fears, and futures?

Those are deeply romantic questions, even when the relationship begins with a contract instead of a kiss.

In The Doctor’s Convenient Marriage, Tori and Harrison enter their agreement not out of despair, but from determination. Tori refuses to sacrifice her dream of practicing medicine, even as Boston society tries to conform her to their expectations. Harrison is more heart-driven, longing to build a hospital in the untamed West where he can serve those who need it most. Their marriage isn’t about survival. It’s about carving out the freedom to become who they were meant to be.

That mutual ambition changes the dynamic. Instead of one rescuing the other, they rescue each other, and in doing so, they learn to see beyond professional camaraderie into something far deeper and more vulnerable.

What I love most about their journey is the way real affection steals up on them quietly. They start as friends and coworkers, but then things begin to change. Little glances. Quiet confessions. Moments of care neither expected to give or receive.

A marriage forged for convenience becomes a partnership rooted in respect. And that becomes the foundation for love. That’s the irresistible beauty of this trope: the idea that love can flourish not in spite of practicality, but right alongside it.

I hope you love this story as much as I do. It’s a heartfelt conclusion to a series that’s been in the works for years. I’m deeply grateful to all who’ve come along on this journey, and I look forward to seeing where the road takes us from here.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 3

Texas Book-aholic, February 4

Pause for Tales, February 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 6

Simple Harvest Reads, February 7 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Jodie Wolfe, February 7

Bizwings Blog, February 8

For Him and My Family, February 9

Devoted To Hope, February 10

lakesidelivingsite, February 11

Lyssa Loves Books, February 11

Books You Can Feel Good About, February 12

Devoted Steps, February 13

Cover Lover Book Review, February 14

Vicky Sluiter, February 15

Holly’s Book Corner, February 15

Connie’s History Classroom, February 16

Mary Hake, February 16

Giveaway

The Doctor's Convenient Marriage Celebration Tour Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lauralyn is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/pX7ww/the-doctors-convenient-marriage-celebration-tour-giveaway

Saturday, February 14, 2026

Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presets: Hook, Line, and Murder (The Sweet Tooth Murder Mystery) by GG Calpo

Hook, Line, and Murder
(The Sweet Tooth Murder Mystery)
by GG Calpo

About Hook, Line, and Murder

Hook, Line, and Murder (The Sweet Tooth Murder Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – New York
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Wild Rose Press
Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 9, 2026
Print length ‏ : ‎ 276 pages
Paperback
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 150926406X
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1509264063
Digital
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1509264070
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0G2YT1P7B

What does Meg, a retired kindergarten teacher, do when the killer of her husband and only child still walks free a year after dirt had covered their graves? Go rogue, of course!

When the detective responsible for Meg’s nightmares takes over the murder investigation of her former student, Meg hunts the killer down with help from her friends. Their cozy lunches at Sweet Buns Café turn into tactical meetings while these retired grade school teachers get themselves in trouble better suited to those in their twenties. And to put the icing on their cream scones, someone is after Meg. Is it the killer? Or has Meg uncovered secrets better left buried with her loved ones?

About GG Calpo

GG Calpo is a retired lawyer and accountant who traded contracts and numbers for the far more enjoyable chaos of fictional crime. Now she writes cozy whodunits featuring warm-hearted golden-aged sleuths who’ve seen it all, heard it all, and will investigate a murder with zero hesitation. She loves stories where the stakes are personal, family, and friendships are paramount, with characters who refuse to follow the outline and endings that pull the rug out. When not plotting twisty crimes—on paper only, of course—she spends her time reading, crocheting blankets and sweaters for her five grandchildren, watching mystery TV shows, and taking long walks in her neighborhood. She lives in Central New Jersey with her husband and two corgis, Whiskey and Nugget. Visit her at www.ggcalpo.com.

Author Links

Website https://www.ggcalpo.com

Facebook https://facebook.com/gg.calpo

Instagram https://instagram.com/gg.calpo

GoodReads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/62170493.G_G_Calpo

Amazon https://amazon.com/author/gg.calpo

Purchase Links – Amazon B&N

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 9 – Books1987 – SPOTLIGHT

February 10 – Jody’s Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT

February 11 – Salty Inspirations – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 12 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

February 13 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 14 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 15 – StoreyBook Reviews – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 16 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

February 17 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 18 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 19 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

February 20 – Boys’ Mom Reads! – REVIEW

February 21 – Sarandipity’s – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 22 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?
Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Want to Book a Tour?
Click Here

Thursday, February 12, 2026

Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours Presents: Teddy Bears and Ghostly Lairs: A Jules Keene Glamping Mystery

Teddy Bears and Ghostly Lairs: A Jules Keene Glamping Mystery

About Teddy Bears and Ghostly Lairs

Teddy Bears and Ghostly Lairs: A Jules Keene Glamping Mystery
Cozy Mystery
5th in Series
Setting – Virginia
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Level Best Books
Publication date ‏ : ‎ December 9, 2025
Print length ‏ : ‎ 244 pages
Paperback
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8898200756
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0G87WV2C1

The town of Fern Valley, in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, has overdosed on cuteness for its first teddy bear and toy festival. Adorable bears have taken over every inch of the town, and Jules Keene can barely keep up with all the guest check-ins at her glamping resort. To add to the fun, a team of paranormal investigators set their sights on her vintage trailers and the new treehouse as they investigate the local haunts.

It quickly becomes evident that things aren’t all sweet and cuddly when someone absconds with collectible toys. Then, to make matters worse, Jules and her friends trip over something not so other-worldly at an abandoned motel during a paranormal investigation. The very real corpse is the prickly vendor who raised a ruckus about his stolen merchandise and the weird things that were afoot in the cozy, one-stop light town.

Jules has to calm frayed nerves and solve the mystery before there are any other thefts or grisly murders.

About Heather Weidner

Heather Weidner

Through the years, Heather Weidner has been a cop’s kid, technical writer, editor, college professor, software tester, and IT manager. She writes the Pearly Girls Mysteries, the Delanie Fitzgerald Mysteries, The Jules Keene Glamping Mysteries, and The Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mysteries.

Her short stories appear in the Virginia is for Mysteries series, 50 Shades of Cabernet, Deadly Southern Charm, Murder by the Glass, First Comes Love, Then Comes Murder, and Crime in the Old Dominion, and she has non-fiction pieces in Promophobia and The Secret Ingredient: A Mystery Writers’ Cookbook.

She is a member of Sisters in Crime: National, Central Virginia, Chessie, Guppies, and Grand Canyon Writers, International Thriller Writers, and James River Writers, and she blogs regularly with the Writers Who Kill.

Originally from Virginia Beach, Heather has been a mystery fan since Scooby-Doo and Nancy Drew. She lives in Central Virginia with her husband and a crazy Mini Aussie Shepherd named Cooper.

Author Links

Website and Blog: http://www.heatherweidner.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherWeidnerAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heather_mystery_writer/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@heather_mystery_writer
BlueSky: Heather Weidner (@heatherweidner.bsky.social) — Bluesky
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heather_weidner_author
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8121854.Heather_Weidner
Amazon Authors: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00HOYR0MQ
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HeatherBWeidner/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-weidner-0064b233?trk=hp-identity-name
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/heather-weidner-d6430278-c5c9-4b10-b911-340828fc7003
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyBjyB0zz-M1DaM-rU1bXGA?view_as=subscriber
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/HeatherWeidner1
Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N – Bookshop.org

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 9 – Jody’s Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT

February 9 – Books1987 – SPOTLIGHT

February 10 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 10 – From the TBR Pile – SPOTLIGHT

February 11 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT

February 11 – Deal Sharing Aunt – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 12 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 13 – Sarandipity’s – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 13 – View from the Birdhouse – REVIEW

February 14 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

February 14 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

February 15 – Boys’ Mom Reads! – SPOTLIGHT

February 16 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW

February 16 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 17 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

February 17 – Salty Inspirations – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 18 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 19 – Ruff Drafts – RECIPE

February 20 – Baroness Book Trove – REVIEW

February 21 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

February 22 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?
Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Want to Book a Tour?
Click Here

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson

Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American Officer, is living in Occupied Germany in the 1950s. After discovering a local orphanage filled with the abandoned mixed-race children of German women and Black American GI’s, Ethel feels compelled to help find these children homes.

Philadelphia born Ozzie Phillips volunteers for the recently desegregated army in 1948, eager to make his mark in the world. While serving in Manheim, Germany, he meets a local woman, Jelka, and the two embark on a relationship that will impact their lives forever.

In 1965 Maryland, Sophia Clark is given an opportunity to attend a prestigious all white boarding school and escape her heartless parents. While at the school, she discovers a secret that upends her world and sends her on a quest to unravel her own identity.

Toggling between the lives of these three individuals, Keeper of Lost Children explores how one woman’s vision will change the course of countless lives, and demonstrates that love in its myriad of forms—familial, parental, and forbidden, even love of self—can be transcendent.

Amazon

About The Author

Sadeqa Johnson is the New York Times best-selling author of five novels including The Reese's Book club pick, The House of Eve. Her accolades include the 2022 Hurston/Wright Foundation Legacy finalist, a BCALA Literary Honoree, the Library of Virginia’s Literary People’s Choice Award and the Phillis Wheatley Book Award. Originally from Philadelphia, she currently lives near Richmond, Virginia, with her husband and three teens.

My Review

This is such an emotional read, from beginning to end.
This book has it origins in the late 1940's, part of the 1950's and ending in the 1960's. From the research I made, this is based on a real person, name change, and a true story.
What a read, compelling page turner. I became engrossed in the lives of these people, Edith with her desires for children, Ozzie trying to drown his demons, and Sophie who broke my heart, but such a heart she has.
Found myself with tears in my eyes, but loved how the author wove this story, and brought it to a conclusion.
I learned some thing that I hadn't heard before, and they are true! I'm glad I chose to read this one!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Simon & Schuster, and was not required to give a positive review.

Monday, February 9, 2026

Celebrate Lit Presents: Of Dawn and Embers (The Fireborn Epic Book Three) Author: Gillian Bronte Adams

About the Book

Book: Of Dawn and Embers (The Fireborn Epic Book Three)

Author: Gillian Bronte Adams

Genre: YA Epic Fantasy

Release Date: January 13, 2026

He rides a dawnling, a steed of light and glory, destined to restore.

Jakim Ha’Nor will save his people, or so says the prophecy that upended his life and drove his brothers to betray him. Now, he has returned as the dawnrider to fulfill his purpose and reconcile with his brothers—only to find himself embroiled in a war.

Captured in the fallout of a deadly attack, Rafi grapples with the ghosts of the past. His brother is alive but no longer himself, and Rafi will stop at nothing to save him. Farther up the coast, Ceridwen strives to reignite the embers of the rebellion to burn the empire down. When Rafi is sentenced to execution before the imperial court, Ceridwen must rally every spear and steed she can for a blistering strike at the heart of the capital.

But the empire’s schemes are already in motion, and Jakim’s two missions collide when an unexpected encounter with one of his brothers reveals the true threat behind the imperial thirst for ancient secrets. Hidden forces intend to unleash a cataclysmic power, spurring Ceridwen, Rafi, and Jakim to challenge the full, crushing might of the empire for the fate of the world.

Stars weep and ash falls as the tides of battle propel the Fireborn queen, the Sea-Demon prince, and the Dawnrider priest toward a meteoric clash in this thunderous series finale.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Gillian Bronte Adams is a sword-wielding, horse-riding, wander-loving fantasy author, rarely found without a coffee in hand and rumored to pack books before clothes when she hits the road. Working in youth ministry left her with a passion for journeying alongside children and teens. (It also enhanced her love of coffee.) Now, she writes novels that follow outcast characters down broken roads, through epic battles, and onward to adventure. And at the end of a long day of typing, she can be found saddling her wild thing and riding off into the sunset, seeking adventures of her own (and more coffee).

More from Gillian

This is, at its core, a book about hope. I discovered that fact partway through the writing process. Of Dawn and Embers is the cataclysmic finale to an epic fantasy trilogy where warriors bond with elemental warhorses and the action sequences strike with ever-increasing intensity from page one, and I was halfway through drafting it before I realized that beneath the searing visuals, the blistering pace, and the moments that set your heart thundering in your chest, this story sings with hope as a powerful undercurrent.

But you’re the author, you say. How could you not already know that?

Some authors go into each project with a specific theme in mind. They begin fully aware of the deeper meaning of the story they want to tell, and they intentionally structure the sequences of the unfolding plot and character arcs to match. I, on the other hand—while an avid worldbuilder who loves creating layered fantasy stories with multiple characters facing their own paths of growth—often wind up surprised by the overarching themes that also surface through those characters’ individual journeys.

Themes of identity and worth. Of finding the beauty in our broken stories. And, in this case, of hope.

Not the soft and feathery kind, fluttering in your chest. Or the brightly optimistic kind that lends itself to cheerful sayings. But the kind of hope that dares to kneel in the ashes, with blood on its teeth and knuckles, and trust that the sun will rise again. The kind of hope that endures and keeps on enduring. The kind of hope that is as stubborn and resilient as an ember’s deep and fiery glow, waiting to be rekindled with a touch of the morning breeze.

That’s the kind of hope that I find myself clinging to in my own life. Because we live in an age where discouragement can seem rampant, flung in our faces with each news cycle and with every moment spent scrolling on this or that screen.

Even once I uncovered that underlying theme, it wasn’t until I reached the end of the first draft and started working back through that I realized just how deeply it had already been woven into the story. It was there in each breathtaking moment of connection between characters, in the first touch of gold breaking through the cloud-wrack, in the hearty meals shared around a fireside, in the friends who refuse to leave one another to face the darkness alone, and in the loyalty that proves a greater defense than any shield or weapon.

It fairly came singing to me off every page, a reflection on hope at the heart of the book.

On the ache of hope. The seeming foolishness of hope. The defiance of hope. The way hope can feel like fresh air to oxygen-starved lungs, and the way it can cause your chest to ache with the fear of losing it again. The way it holds you up and keeps you standing long after you expected to be on your knees. And the way a lack of hope can leave you grasping for some sense of control, lashing out in desperation to find your own way forward after you put your hope in something that proved incapable of enduring.

In the prologue, one of the main characters, Jakim, compares holding onto hope in the midst of hardship as a candle flame that he has had to grip tightly to shield from the buffeting winds to keep it from going out. And “lately, it had felt like the only way to keep it alive was to grasp it so tightly it singed him.”

If you’ve ever faced the long and aching wait for a hope to be realized, you know what it feels like for hope to sting. Proverbs 13:12 (NIV) talks about how “hope deferred makes the heart sick” but Hebrews 6:19 tells us where we can find that true and lasting hope that exists as “an anchor for our souls”: through the One who stepped into the darkest night in our place and took on our own hopeless state so that He could become our hope.

A hope that endures. That breathes life. That does not falter or fail. That doesn’t slip away. That isn’t in danger of burning out if we grip it too tightly.

A hope that holds onto us.

Later on, Jakim comes to the restorative realization that “Hope was not a candle flame. It was the dawn. Rising again and again after darkest night.”

Rising without any effort of his own. Rising beyond the pain of his circumstances. Rising steadfastly day by day.

And throughout the wild ups and downs of this book, through the aching chill of the dark nights and the resplendent glories of the new dawns, I hope that readers will walk away with that same assurance singing hope into their souls.

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, January 27

Simple Harvest Reads, January 28 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, January 29 (Spotlight)

Artistic Nobody, January 30 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, January 31 (Spotlight)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 31

Blossoms and Blessings, February 1 (Spotlight)

Guild Master, February 2 (Author Interview)

Stories By Gina, February 3 (Spotlight)

Book Holds and Jello Molds, February 3

Fiction Book Lover, February 4 (Author Interview)

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 5 (Spotlight)

Texas Book-aholic, February 6

A Reader’s Brain , February 7 (Spotlight)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 8 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 9 (Spotlight)

Giveaway

Of Dawn and Embers Celebration Tour Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Gillian is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Barnes & Noble Gift Card and copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/yIAxb/of-dawn-and-embers-celebration-tour-giveaway

Celebrate Lit Presents: The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife Author: Dawn Damon

About the Book

Book: The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife

Author: Dawn Damon

Genre: Non-Fiction

Release Date: November 8, 2023

This time, it’s YOUR time.
Boldly voice a resounding YES to YOU. Embark on a midlife path that leads to a life brimming with BRAVE CONFIDENCE and a BOLD Vision.
In this ultimate guide to living midlife full-out you’ll find the courage to step out of the shadows of self-doubt and insecurity, and seize the unfolding opportunities before you.
So, with determination in your heart, shed your faintheart, and step into the brilliance that awaits. Say YES to your dreams, your growth, and your exceptional potential. Now is your time BraveHeart. The transformational quest to a future filled with fulfillment beyond measure has begun

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

For over 25 years, Dawn Damon has inspired audiences as a speaker, author, podcaster, and teacher. Her greatest joy is equipping others to reach their goals and God-given purpose—whether in their personal lives or the platform of public ministry. With contagious passion and wisdom, Dawn says, “The purpose of my life is to help others fulfill the purpose of their life!”

Dawn is founder / CEO of The BraveHearted Woman, and BraveHearted YOUniveristy, a growth and development coaching enterprise for women, awakening their God-given vision and equipping them to live an extraordinary life.

Dawn is a Conference Speaker, Podcaster, and Author, 6 award-winning books including “When a Woman You Love Was Abused, by Kregel Publications and “The Freedom Challenge: 60 Days to Untie the Cords that Bind You, Redemption Press,” and most recent, Selah Award finalist, and CIPA 1^st Place Award, “The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife.”

The Podcast and YouTube Channel, called “The BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Mindset Mastery,” echoes Dawn’s calling, offering solo episodes and meaningful interviews, coaching women to live as the vibrant “leading lady” of their life.

More from Dawn

One of my favorite movies as a kid was The Wizard of Oz. It aired on network TV once a year, and watching the movie with my two sisters, popcorn, blankets, (to hide my eyes during the scary flying monkeys scene) and staying up late, was a big deal.

One of my favorite parts is when the cowardly Lion makes his speech about Courage.

“What makes the muskrat guard his musk? Courage. What makes the Sphinx the 7th Wonder? Courage. What makes the dawn come up like thunder? Courage”.

Years later, I found myself in a place where like Cowardly Lion, I needed courage. I had to do some brave things in my life, but I was stuck in fear. I asked myself, “What would I do if the drag of fear wasn’t tethered to my soul; if scary stories and whispers of doom were replaced with curiosity and courage?

I would rise.

What would you do?

If fear was vanquished and lying voices silenced, would you catch the wind and rise to new challenges? Would you be curious enough to explore the new beginnings of an authentic life and brave enough to take important steps, even while afraid?

Sometimes we feel more like the cowardly lion. The dawn doesn’t come up like thunder, but, it does always come up! Can you do something today to move you toward living from your heart and not your fear? As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Do one thing every day that scares you.”

If you’re being called to rise, if in areas of your life you need to become brave and step out of the comfort zone to reclaim the life you’re meant to live, I believe my book will help you take those courageous steps! It’s time to Rise.