Homeschool Friday - Halle Takes a Stand

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Halle Takes a Stand (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: Paul David Tripp

Illustrated By: Joe Hox

Publication: March 31, 2022 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--This colorful, beautifully illustrated children's book invites children ages three through eight into Halle Hedgehog's world to learn alongside her how Jesus gives her courage to take a stand against meanness.

Halle Hedgehog has a group of school friends she sits with at lunch and plays with at recess. One day, the whole group excludes another girl and decides to be mean to her. This bothers Halle, but she doesn't say anything because she doesn't want to be excluded, too. Halle's teacher Mr. Owl talks to her about who she really needs to fit in with, and how she can speak out against bullying because Jesus is with her.

Parents and children will learn concrete, grace-based ways to deal with the pressures of fitting in. Edited by Paul David Tripp, Halle Takes a Stand ends with a special section that guides parents in teaching their children to respond with faith when fear or the overwhelming desire to fit in takes hold in their hearts.

Halle Takes a Stand is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series, bringing gospel help and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF's model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family's real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus in the midst of challenging circumstances. Each individual story guides parents toward meaningful conversations with their kids, based on what Scripture has to say about living by faith in everyday life.

By providing biblical help and hope to issues every child faces through vivid illustrations and a story based on a different animal family, even the youngest child will be engaged. Each story offers practical ways to follow Jesus in difficult situations. Instead of a moralistic message, young readers are encouraged to develop a real relationship with the God who cares for them.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Halle Takes a Stand features Proverbs 29:25, "If you are afraid of people, it will trap you. But if you trust in the Lord, he will keep you safe." Halle Takes a Stand is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with a Friday waffle day in the Hedgehog House. Halle and Henry are off to school. At lunch, Halle's science partner, Freya, tried to sit at her lunch table, but Maddie had a thing against frogs and was ugly and teasing. When Freya walked away, Maddie continued to loudly talk down about frogs. Halle laughed and joined in a bit with the others making fun of Freya. Little did Halle know that their teacher Mr. Owl had come up behind them. He asked Halle to stay and talked to her a bit about what happened. When she got home that night, her parents noticed her different behavior, and Halle admitted that Mr. Owl had sent home a note for them to read. Mama and Papa talked to Halle about the unkind things said about Freya. Mama shared a story of her childhood when another girl made fun of her in front of everyone and how one friend stuck up for her. Papa tells Halle that doing the right thing is not easy, but Jesus welcomed the friendless, and we should too. Papa and Mama pray for Halle to be brave and trust God. Papa gives Halle a piece of paper with Proverbs 29:25 written on it. And then Papa asked if Halle could see how Maddie trapped her. Papa guides Halle to pray and ask Jesus for forgiveness. The next morning Halle goes to school early to talk to Mr. Owl. She shares her discussion with her parents with him. And then Mr. Owl reinforced Halle's parents' lesson. At lunchtime, Halle had the opportunity to stand up to Maddie and defend Freya, which she did. After Maddie was ousted from her table, the only table left was the bullfrog boys. Maddie has an embarassing moment, but Halle stands up to comfort Maddie.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children with peer pressure. And then finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when they want to fit in. Proverbs 29:25, Matthew 11:28, John 15:13, and Psalm 62:11-12.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Halle Takes a Stand gets 5 Stars. Have you or your child read Halle Takes a Stand? What did you think? Let me know!

Top Ten Fall 2026 TBR List

Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together. This week's topic is Top Ten Fall 2026 TBR List

.

1. Silver & Smoke (The Ashes of Thezmarr, # 3) by Helen Scheuerer
2. Her Hidden Fire by Clíodhna O'Sullivan
3. The Realm Reaper (Reign of Remnants, # 3) by Julie Johnson
4. A Bargain So Bloody (Kingdom of Dark Magic, # 1) by Vasilisa Drake
5. Deceptive Inheritance (Remnants of the Lost, # 1) by Jennifer Anne Davis
6. Chase Me if You Can by Heather Frances
7. Spellcast (Fire in the Sky, # 3) by Sophie Jordan
8. Of Blades and Wings (Flame Cursed Fae, # 1) by Eliza Raine
9. The Matchmaker's Cottage by Kat Sloane
10. Kiss of the Black Flame by Helen Scheuerer

Which books are on your fall 2026 TBR list? Let me know!

Reckless - Review

Reckless (Powerless Trilogy, # 2)

By: Lauren Roberts

Publication: July 2, 2024 by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

383 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Magic

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Paedyn and Kai battle with duty and desire in this highly anticipated second installment in the sizzling and epic romantic fantasy trilogy that’s packed with spicy tension and edge-of-your-seat betrayal.

The kingdom of Ilya is in turmoil…

After surviving the Purging Trials, Ordinary-born Paedyn Gray has killed the King and kickstarted a Resistance throughout the land. Now she’s running from the one person she had wanted to run to.

Kai Azer is now Ilya’s Enforcer, loyal to his brother Kitt, the new King. He has vowed to find Paedyn and bring her to justice.

Across the deadly Scorches, and deep into the hostile city of Dor, Kai pursues the one person he wishes he didn’t have to. But in a city without Elites, the balance between the hunter and hunted shifts—and the battle between duty and desire is deadly.

I was disappointed with the ending of Powerless. *Spoilers for the previous book!* How Kitt and Kai could both basically be in love with the same woman, know the other brother is in love with her, yet refuse to even discuss it, was beyond me. I really wanted to punch Kitt in the face, to be honest. I wasn't even sure I wanted to continue the series if brothers fighting over a girl that obviously favored one of the over the other was going to be the path we took. But since I got Reckless on audio, I decided that I would continue at least through this book and see how I ended up liking it.

Paedyn is on the run for killing the king of Illya. Of course, he attacked her first, but details don't seem to matter. Kitt and Kai both feel betrayed by Paedyn. And Kitt has charged Kai with bringing her back. Kai injures her in his pursuit, but she does manage to escape and cross the Scorches to the next city of Dor. Kai pursues her. And the two play cat and mouse for a while. Ultimately, Kai does capture Paedyn, but getting back to Illya isn't smooth sailing. Plus, their forced proximity brings old feelings to the surface.

I can't even begin to tell you how much the cliffhanger to Reckless angered me. Like, I really and truly don't know if I want to continue the series after that mess. Seriously. What in the world is Lauren Roberts thinking except trying to make her readers angry? Well, it's working.

I don't have any favorite quotes since I listened to the audiobook version, but I will say the narrators Cecily Bednar Schmidt, Chase Brown, and Jared Zeus did a fabulous job.

Reckless was actually better than I expected it to be. I was hooked from the beginning due to the cliffhanger of the previous book. But I was so angry over the cliffhanger of this book that I don't even know if I want to finish the series. Kai and Paedyn all the way. Kitt can go kick rocks. Reckless would have gotten 4 Stars until the sorry cliffhanger which takes my rating down to 2 Stars. Have you read or listened to Reckless? What did you think? Let me know!

P.S. Since finishing these two books, I have followed a series on Instagram by Kim Argyle discussing the ethicacy of this series, and I am apt to agree with her assessment on this series thus far. I noticed similarities with Powerless and both The Hunger Games and Red Queen, but it's been so long since I read the Dance of Thieves duology that the similarities with that series didn't stand out to me, even though I did notice more similarities with Glass Sword.

Homeschool Friday - Tomas Looks Up and Out

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Tomas Looks Up and Out (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: J. Alasdair Groves

Illustrated By: Jo Hox

Publication: October 9, 2023 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Tomas Looks Up and Out helps children learn how God considers us and wants us to look to him for help so that we consider others too. Tomas Turtle starts his day thinking more about himself than others. Not only is he annoyed that his sister Tori’s cough kept him awake, but he also brags to all of his friends about his successes. It’s not until he gets sick and his friends take care of him that Tomas learns to look up to God and out to others. Edited by counselor Alasdair Groves, Tomas Looks Up and Out offers concrete, grace-based help for growing in empathy and is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series, which brings gospel wisdom and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF’s model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family’s real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus during challenging circumstances.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Tomas Looks Up and Out features Philippians 2:4, "None of you should look out just for your own good. Each of you should also look out for the good of others." Tomas Looks Up and Out is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with Tomas Turtle being annoyed by the noises coming from downstairs because it's Saturday, and he normally gets to sleep in on Saturday. His mother explains that Tori has been up all night, and she's not feeling well. But Tomas is only annoyed with his missing sleep. Tomas comes in that afternoon with his friend Henry bragging about making the swimming team. He interrupts his father and tells his parents that Henry didn't make the team because too much water isn't good for hedgehogs. Later, Tomas and Buster are sliding down the grassy hill. Tomas bursts through the front door bragging about beating Buster down the hill. His mother pulls him aside to discuss how Buster might be feeling. Tomas blows her off because Buster wins all the time. After dinner, Tomas isn't feeling well. Tori, knowing how it feels to be sick, offers Tomas the remote and a hot water bottle that she had been using. Tomas, however, was too frustrated with being sick to notice Tori taking care of him. The next day, Tomas's friends show up with some supplies to help him feel better. A mishap has the two friends covered in water, but instead of being angry and frustrated, they just laughed. Tomas realized that his friends could have been out doing anything else, but instead they had come to see and help him. That night before bed, he makes things right by apologizing to Tori, who forgives him. Tori also shares a piece of paper from her nightstand which shares Philippians 2:4. Tomas goes to bed, looks up to God, and asks for help to look out for others. The next morning, Tomas is feeling better, but his mom shares that Buster and Henry are now feeling sick. Tomas asks his mother if they should take them some soup.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children learn to walk in another's shoes. And the finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when they are lonely. Matthew 7:12, Romans 12:15, Philippians 2:4, and 1 Peter 3:8.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Tomas Looks Up and Out gets 5 Stars. Have you or your child read Tomas Looks Up and Out? What did you think? Let me know

Without a Clue - Review

Without a Clue

By: Melissa Ferguson

Publication: February 17, 2026 by Thomas Nelson

336 pages

Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Mystery, Romance

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--When a mystery writer mysteriously dies on a cruise filled with rabid fans, his protégé (and personal assistant) teams up with a rugged cowboy and fellow writer to crack the case. One part Only Murders in the Building, one part Book Lovers, and a whole lot of laughs, Without a Clue will keep readers guessing and swooning until the very end.

If there's one thing Penelope Mae Dupont prizes most, it's her composure--her ability to stay calm in the face of stress. It's a vital trait in her job as a personal assistant to renowned mystery author Hugh Griffin. But when Pip organizes a book cruise featuring The Fabulous Seven--seven celebrated authors from different genres who have supported each other through thick and thin--her famed composure is in danger of sailing away. One boat, hundreds of devoted readers, and seven Big Personalities. What could possibly go wrong?

Disaster strikes when, on the second day of the cruise, Hugh is found murdered. And, in the face of gross incompetence by the on-board security force, Pip realizes she'll need to be the one to discover who did it. With the ship stranded in the middle of the Atlantic and no help on the horizon, it's up to her to unravel the mystery. Along with her friend Nash--a dreamy Western author who's just as rugged as the cowboys he writes about. As Pip's composure starts to sink faster than a leaky dinghy, Nash becomes her anchor in a storm of clues and red herrings.

With Nash at her side, Penelope dives into the murky depths of the mystery, navigating treacherous waters filled with unexpected twists and turns. No one, not even a desperately hopeful mystery sleuth named Pip, could anticipate the wild ride ahead. Whether she likes it or not, she is on the adventure of a lifetime . . . and maybe, just maybe, she'll find love along the way.

In this laugh-out-loud funny Clue-meets-Emily-Henry rom-com, Penelope Mae Dupont is about to find out that in the world of mystery and romance, you have to risk going overboard to find the truth.

I've had an up and down relationship with Melissa Ferguson's books. Yet I've found that the ones I've loved the most have been the books that she writes about books. Meet Me in the Margins and The Perfect Rom-Com were two that stood out to me in the past. But I'm not a big fan of mysteries, so I put off reading Without a Clue for longer than I intended, and I also started it and put it back down due to a slower beginning. But once I get into the heart of the book, I found it easy to keep going.

I really feel like Melissa Ferguson has written these books about books, about stories, as a way of venting her love for each of the genres. I could be reaching, but that's how it appears to me. As I already said, I'm not the biggest fan of mysteries, and I find that when they are mixed with romance, the plot can overtake the relationships. Or the mystery becomes the major conflict instead of relational conflict. One I appreciate, and the other I don't. Without a Clue was enough romance to suit my preferences there.

Penelope has been a writing assistant for an author for years. She also organizes and keeps things together for a group of seven famous authors. Hugh, the author she's an assistant for, keeps trying to get her to write her own book. She's also developed a crush on one of the other authors who she has a close working relationship with. Yet they never associate outside of work. When Penelope's long-term boyfriend breaks up with her in a public way, she's feeling herself on the verge of an emotional breakdown. This vacation (a celebrity cruise) is just what she thinks she needs. Only Hugh ends up murdered, and Penelope is the only one who can solve the murder.

I can't say more due to spoilers.

Without a Clue was an enjoyable read, and I got into it once I made it about 20%. There was mystery-genre plotting, and romance. I wasn't always sure who I could trust. At the same time, I wasn't surprised by the outcome or ending of the book at all. Without a Clue gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read Without a Clue? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday Post - 09/13/26

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Monday the kids got to spend a little time with their cousins before they went back to Georgia. Tuesday, we made some changes to our school schedule, so we didn't go to my parent's house. Plus Big Girl started getting sick on Monday/Tuesday. She missed softball practice that night. Husband took the boys to their ball practices. Wednesday was a good school day. I took Little Boy to batting practice. Thursday, Big Girl was feeling better so we went to band. The boys had to go with us this week, but they did well. Thursday night, I had the boys at baseball and Husband had Big Girl. The older two both had scrimmage games. Big Boy got to pitch to his first ever live batter. He did strike out his first batter. Friday was a normal, full school day. Saturday, the league has a opening practice tournament. Big Girl's team came in second place. The coaches of the opposite team vote for an MVP on the other team and she got the award for her team. I was so proud of her. Big Boy's team won their age bracket. He didn't get to pitch in the tournament, but that's okay. I'm sure he will have opportunity throughout the season. Little Boy's team won their first game, but got put out in their second game. It was quite hectic trying to get to all the games, but we had overcast skies and a slight breeze off and on which helped with the temperature. I am still wiped out though.

THE PAST WEEK

Monday: Review of When Calls the Heart (Canadian West, # 1) by Janette Oke (4 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Trust Issues by Kasie West
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Darcy is Always First

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: Review ?
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Tomas Looks Up and Out

NEW BOOKS:

Vale of Dreams (Fey Academy for Spies, # 2)

By: C.N. Crawford & Alex Rivers

Expected Publication: December 15, 2026 by Scarlett Press

400 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Fae, Romance, Romantasy

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Acting as the mistress of a terrifying Fey prince known as the Dream Stalker was never on my wishlist. But that’s exactly what happens when I journey into Brocéliande to rescue my lover, Raphael. Sometimes, fate has a twisted sense of humor.

Captured by the prince, I quickly learn he’s a beautiful, living nightmare. He immediately discovers my hidden talent—mind control. He gives me no choice but to serve him. Avalon Tower thinks it’s a good idea, too. Now, I'm keeping secrets from everyone, and the Dream Stalker doesn’t know I'm a spy. His plan? Manipulate ministers, overthrow his father, and annihilate humanity.

Seductive and complex, he’ll get in my head if I let him. In the Fey palace, courtly intrigue reigns. If I can’t outsmart the prince, my neck will be the next one on the execution block, and he will crush humanity in his beautiful hands.

Lady of the Lake (Fey Academy for Spies, # 3)

By: C.N. Crawford & Alex Rivers

Expected Publication: March 16, 2027 by Scarlett Press

448 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Fae, Romance, Romantasy

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Acting as the mistress of a terrifying Fey prince known as the Dream Stalker was never on my wishlist. But that’s exactly what happens when I journey into Brocéliande to rescue my lover, Raphael. Sometimes, fate has a twisted sense of humor.

Captured by the prince, I quickly learn he’s a beautiful, living nightmare. He immediately discovers my hidden talent—mind control. He gives me no choice but to serve him. Avalon Tower thinks it’s a good idea, too. Now, I'm keeping secrets from everyone, and the Dream Stalker doesn’t know I'm a spy. His plan? Manipulate ministers, overthrow his father, and annihilate humanity.

Seductive and complex, he’ll get in my head if I let him. In the Fey palace, courtly intrigue reigns. If I can’t outsmart the prince, my neck will be the next one on the execution block, and he will crush humanity in his beautiful hands.

The Realm Reaper (Reign of the Remnants, # 3)

By: Julie Johnson

Expected Publication: February 23, 2027 by Ace

592 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Four courts. Two kings. One Remnant whose choice could change the fate of the realm.

The final battle begins in this epic conclusion to the #1 Sunday Times bestselling series.

Captured and alone, Rhya Fleetwood is fighting not to sink into darkness. With each passing day, her mind unravels and her power slips away—until there may be no magic, no hope…no more Rhya.

Soren and Penn will flood, scorch, and destroy their way through Anwyvn to save the woman they love. But even if they succeed, the Rhya they find may not be the one they lost.

The realm needs all four fated Remnants—Earth, Fire, Water, and Air—to restore balance. As prophecy looms and deadly sorcery rises in the Southlands, time is running out.

Rhya must reclaim her rightful place before it’s too late. Her mind may be frayed, but some bonds cannot be broken—and some loves are so powerful, not even oblivion can erase them.

- Enemies-to-lovers
- High concept
- Fae courts
- Elemental magic
- Kingdoms at war
- Political intrigue

Of Frost and Feather (Flame Cursed Fae, # 2)

By: Eliza Raine

Expected Publication: February 16, 2027 by Scarlett Press

288 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Fae, Romance, Romantasy

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Maddy used to think she knew what would end her life. Now, the list is too long to guess from. And possibly the most dangerous of them all? Kain.

Every day she spends at Featherblade, more secrets are revealed, and it will only be so long before one of them is hers. When Kain has what he wants from her… She fears it won’t just be those who wronged him who will feel his wrath.

She must be strong. She must earn her wings. She must resist the promise in his flaming eyes.
She must not fall for the villain of Featherblade.

Fae Vikings meets fantasy romance in this enemies-to-lovers series in an academy/war college setting. If you love villain-gets-the-girl stories and obsessive burn-the-world-down-for-her MMCs, then this is for you. The spice is deliciously slow-burn and builds with each book.

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Darcy is Always First

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Darcy is Always First (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: Lauren Whitman

Illustrated By: Jo Hox

Publication: September 9, 2024 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--In Darcy Is Always First, children will learn how to show love and patience to their brothers and sisters, even when they annoy each other.

It doesn’t matter that Darcy Duck is only a few seconds older than Delia and Denny—Darcy thinks she should be first at everything. That means that the ducklings always end up fighting to get their turn. Hurt feelings and anger abound until one day when their grandparents fly in for a visit. That’s when Denny’s determination to be first, ahead of Darcy, almost ends in disaster.

Edited by counselor Lauren Whitman, Darcy Is Always First is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series that brings gospel wisdom and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF’s model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family’s real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus during challenging circumstances.A special section at the end of the book guides parents in having meaningful conversations with their kids about putting others first and living at peace with one another.Children ages four to seven will be captivated by Joe Hox’s colorful, fun illustrations that bring the animal world to life. Teaches children and parents how to apply God’s Word to the inevitable occurrence of navigating sibling conflict.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Darcy is Always First features Romans 12:5, "In Christ we are one body. And each part of the body belongs to all the other parts." In my copy, this Scripture was toward the end instead of the beginning of the book. Darcy is Always First is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with three duckling siblings swimming in Mulberry Pond. Darcy has a habit of pushing her way to the front of the line to be first at everything. A couple of examples are shown. Denny is the youngest sibling, and he seems to take Darcy's habit the hardest. That's not to say that Delia is immune to Darcy's behavior. As Denny gets fed up with Darcy's attempts to be first, he begins to fight her on the position, but his attempts only make things worse. Denny eventually takes his attemps to beat Darcy at being first so far that he puts himself and Gram and Gramps in danger. All three end up soaking wet. Mama and Papa finally take time to see what's really going on with Denny. And Mama and Papa have a discussion with all of their ducklings. Papa pulls a piece of paper from his hat that has Romans 12:5 on it. He talks to the ducklings about how important it is to take care of your siblings in the same way that you take care of your own body. If one sibling does well, all of them should be happy. If one sibling is hurting, everyone is supposed to care about that pain. Because we all belong to one another. And then he talks to them about how to make things right.

At the end of the book is a section for parents about helping children with navigating sibling conflict. And then finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when siblings fight. Mark 12:21, Romans 12:5, Psalm 133:1, and Ephesians 5:1-2.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Darcy is Always First gets 5 Stars. (Now if only solving sibling conflict went as smoothly in real life as it is presented in books, all of us parents would have a much easier job.) Have you or your child read Darcy is Always First? What did you think? Let me know!

P.S. As this blog post is publishing on September 11, 2026, I haven't forgotten this day 25 years ago. I honor those lost in my memory, and my prayers are with the family members of those who died as well as the survivors of that day. I recently listened to the audiobook I Survived: The Attacks of September 11, 2001 by Lauren Tarshis with my kids and had a visceral reaction that I wasn't expecting. I highly recommend that book and will have a full review coming to my blog in the future.

Can't Wait for Trust Issues

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Trust Issues

By: Kasie West

Expected Publication: April 27, 2027 by Saturday Books

368 pages

Genre: Adult, Contemporary

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--The perfect follow up to Kasie West’s duo of adult rom-coms, We Met Like This and Stranger Things Have Happened, Trust Issues will appeal to readers of Emily Henry and Ali Hazelwood.

While out of town on a work trip, Parker begins to question her boyfriend’s fidelity when she receives an anonymous text with a link to his profile on a dating app. Desperate to be proven wrong Parker hires a food delivery driver to deliver both food and information. But the driver, upon learning what he’s been hired for, ruins the surveillance mission by ratting her out to her boyfriend, effectively ending her 2-year relationship with one ten-piece wing order. Parker is angry at herself…and at the asshole food delivery driver. Too bad three months later he becomes the new hire at the newspaper where she writes.

Not only has he invaded her daily happy place, they are put on an assignment together, against both of their wills, investigating a local fire. Parker finds that he’s just as arrogant, condescending, and utterly infuriating as she initially thought. But he also has stunning blue eyes. And an annoyingly cute smirk. Are his mouth and intense stare starting to cloud her judgement? Crumble her well-earned trust issues?

Or is she discovering that loathing and lust aren’t actually as different as they seem and that maybe she wants to see which one of those emotions will come out on top.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

When Calls the Heart - Review

When Calls the Heart (Canadian West, # 1)

By: Janette Oke

Publication: first published 1983

220 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Personal Ebook Library

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Nothing in her cultured East Coast upbringing prepared Elizabeth for a teaching position on the Canadian frontier. Yet, despite the constant hardships, she loves the children in her care. Determined to do the best job she can and fighting to survive the harsh land, Elizabeth is surprised to find her heart softening towards a certain member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Book 1 of the bestselling Canadian West series.

I remember my mom reading these books when I was little. And you know, it isn't possible that my mom and I would like the same books, right? But of course, I loved the Hallmark TV adaptation of this series. I know they changed a lot. But I've come to love historical fiction, and I got books 1-4 of this series for insanely cheap a while back on Google Books.

I don't remember a ton because I finished this book five months before writing my review of it. So you can imagine that I don't remember the details clearly. I do remember Elizabeth decides to go west, but she doesn't realize that she won't get to pick which town she will be a teacher in. She is assigned to a town that is even smaller and more remote than she imagined. And she isn't in constant contact with her brother like she hoped. She does, however, begin to make an impression on the students and their families, as well as a certain Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer.

I wouldn't say that romance is the majority of the plot for When Calls the Heart, but it was present enough that I didn't feel uninterested, as relationships are my preferred driving force to any story. I do want to continue the series, but I'm not dying to read book 2 immediately.

When Calls the Heart gets 4 Stars. Have you read When Calls the Heart? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday Post - 09/06/26

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~this meme was inspired in part by ~ In My Mailbox~ It's a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

Monday was a good day. Big Girl had pitching practice. Little Boy's team had batting practice. Tuesday, we spent most of the day with my parents after the kids did a little school. I tried Aldi pickup for the first time. I was really impressed overall. All of the kids had ball practice. I took the boys, and Husband took Big Girl. Wednesday, Big Boy asked Husband to take him to pitching practice instead of me. Then Big Girl and I went to church. The boys stayed home. Thursday, Big Girl had her first homeschool beginner band class. She's leaning towards choosing the trumpet right now. Big Boy had natural class. Then we went to the park for a picnic lunch and the kids played with their friends for a bit. Our friends were going to play in the creek, but I didn't have it in me to join that day due to our super busy day. All of the kids had ball practice. It was my turn to take Big Girl to her practice. They actually did a scrimmage game this time. She did really well. Friday was our only slow day with no activities. Big Girl and I rode with my parents to north Alabama to my nephew and niece-in-law's baby shower on Saturday.

THE PAST WEEK

Monday: Review of A Carol for Mrs. Dickens by Rebecca Connolly (3 Stars)
Tuesday: August 2026 EOM Wrap Up
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Night Tide by Lexi Ryan
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Tori Comes Out of Her Shell

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of When Calls the Heart (Candaian West, # 1) by Janette Oke
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Wednesday
Thursday: Review ?
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Darcy is Always First

NEW BOOKS:

Always, Elsie

By: Katie Steward Stone

Expected Publication: June 30, 2026 by Absolutely Austen

323 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency, Romance, Clean Romance

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Elsie Findlay has been waiting three years to marry Graham Anderson, despite his promise to return from the West Indies in one. To make matters worse, she hasn’t heard from him in two years and doesn’t know if he is alive or dead. Finally, a letter arrives, delivered by Graham’s business partner, Arthur Ashby. Graham writes that the business has failed and as he feels he can no longer provide for Elsie, he ends their engagement. Shocked and angry, Elsie decides to confront him in person. She enlists Arthur to help her cross the sea to where Graham was last seen.

Along the way, Elsie finds herself depending on Arthur to navigate life on a ship while enduring storms, a disgruntled crew, and even pirates. Their challenges–which don’t end after finding Graham–push Elsie’s resolve and Arthur’s honor to their limits. Where will Elsie’s heart lead her when loyalty and longing pull her toward different shores?

That's it for my shelves and recaps of my past and upcoming week. What did you add to your shelves this week? Any bookish news you want to talk about? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Tori Comes Out of Her Shell

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Tori Comes Out of Her Shell (Good News for Little Hearts, # 5)

By: Jayne V. Clark

Illustrated By: Jo Hox

Publication: October 7, 2019 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Tori the turtle feels all alone. She has just moved to a new pond and a new school with her family and it seems like everyone has a friend except her. Her teacher notices she feels alone and helps her remember Jesus is always her friend and then along the way she makes some new friends. The last page contains information for Christian parents on how God, in his Word, helps us turn to Jesus when we are lonely. Together children and parents will be guided into meaningful conversations about living by faith in the details of everyday life. Also included is a tear-out page of Back Pocket Bible Verses that will give children a practical way to remember God's words when they feel all alone. A new series of hardback, illustrated. Christian children's books for three-to eight-year-olds each centered on an animal family bringing gospel help and biblical counsel to families in need of the Christian word. The animal characters, colorful illustrations, and the real-life issues each animal family face will captivate children. The first three books address anxiety, anger, and failure, bringing biblical help and hope to issues every child faces.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Tori Comes Out of Her Shell features Matthew 28:20, "I am with you always," which Jesus said to His disciples after His resurrection and before His ascension. Tori Comes Out of Her Shell is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with the Turtle family moving from their home in Woodland Pond to Mulberry Meadow. Tomas and Ted spy new friends to play with, but Tori hides in her shell. School starts the next day, but Tori is worried. What if no one talks to her? What if she has no one to play with at recess? Or what if she's made fun of? Unfortunately, Tori doesn't talk to her mom about her fears. At school, Tori struggles to introduce herself to the class, she sits by herself at recess, and she worries about embarrassing herself. Thankfully, Miss Minnick, the teacher, comes over to encourage her. Miss Minnick shares her own story about being the new kid in school. Miss Minnick gives Tori a piece of paper that her own father once gave her. At church on Sunday, Tori notices a Bible (Great Book as the story calls it) verse behind the preacher. And she thanks God for always being with her and being her friend.

At school on Monday, she notices an old school bell sliding up to her. Tori comes out of her shell to see if someone needs help. Turns out that Gertie Gecko was trying to mimic Tori's shell with the school bell. Gertie explains that she sometimes feels lonely and thought Tori's shell looked like a good hiding place. The two talk and decide to help each other. Tori shares the paper that Miss Minnick gave her. It says, "There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." And Tori shares Jesus's offer of friendship to Gertie. They decide to be friends. Tori also invites Gertie to church with her.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children with loneliness. And the finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when they are lonely. Matthew 28:20, Genesis 16:13, Proverbs 18:24, Hebrews 13:5, Psalm 32:7, and Psalm 139:1.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Tori Comes Out of Her Shell gets 5 Stars. Have you or your child read Tori Comes Out of Her Shell? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for Night Tide

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Night Tide

By: Lexi Ryan

Expected Publication: February 23, 2027 by Avon

432 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Romantasy, Vampires

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Aurora Evanselier’s graduation from Invictus Mage Academy is meant to be the most unforgettable night of her life. The glittering ball is supposed to begin with music and dancing and end with a single which of the empire’s four ruling kingdoms she’ll serve with her formidable magic.

As the emperor’s daughter, everyone expects Aurora to choose Daybreak, the most powerful kingdom in the empire. But when her father collapses, only one man can save him—Malek Ravenstorm, the brooding, magnetic prince of Night Tide. Malek has never forgiven the emperor for executing his brother, but he offers Aurora a his healing magic, in exchange for her allegiance. Desperate to save her father, she agrees.

Now Aurora is bound to a kingdom rumored to harbor witches and vampires, where the castle hides forbidden wings, and nothing is what it seems—especially Malek. He’s infuriating. Irresistible. Dangerous. And determined to keep her in the dark.

But Aurora didn’t trade her freedom to become a pawn. As whispers of a curse stir and Night Tide’s mysteries deepen, she uncovers a truth that threatens everything she thought she knew. Because the darkest secret of all isn’t Malek’s. It’s hers.

Night Tide begins a steamy, high-stakes romantasy trilogy where magic is power, desire is dangerous, and the shadows hold answers that can’t survive in the light.

TROPES YOU'LL FIND IN NIGHT TIDE:

Magical academyBrother rivalry (with Vampire Diaries' Stefan-Damon vibes)Enemies-to-lovers romanceFound friendshipRoyals with secret identitiesMysterious creatures that roam the nightBound by curses and fate

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

August 2026 EOM Wrap Up

I read 7 books (not including children's books).
The Little Wild Library: Hawthorn by Clare Gogerty
Pride Comes Before the Fall (Miss Prentice's Protegees, # 3) by Virginia Heath
A Gentleman's Reckoning by Jennie Goutet
Storm of Secrets & Sorrow (Legacy, # 2) by Melissa K Roehrich (not pictured & will not review)
A Carol for Mrs. Dickens by Rebecca Connolly
Two Twisted Crowns (The Shepherd King, # 2) by Rachel Gillig
Trust Fall by Lynn Painter
Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson

I reviewed 6 books (not including mini reviews of children's books).
Emrbace (Off the Ice, # 4) by Bal Khabra
A Kingdom to Claim by Sian Ann Bessey
Soulgazer (The Magpie and the Wolf, # 1) by Maggie Rapier
The Best I Never Had by Amy Buchanan
Pride Comes Before the Fall (Miss Prentice's Protegees, # 3) by Virginia Heath
A Carol for Mrs. Dickens by Rebecca Connolly

Other Posts:
Sunday Post - 08/02/26
Sunday Post - 08/09/26
Sunday Post - 08/16/26
Sunday Post - 08/23/26
Sunday Post - 08/30/26
Ten Books I Was Reading on This Day Over the Years
Ten Series I Need to Continue
Can't Wait for Peculiar Stars by Rebecca Yarros
Can't Wait for The Kiss of the Season (Fairfax Sisters, # 4) by Michelle Kenney
Can't Wait for The Widow of Woodlark Cottage by Julie Klassen
Can't Wait for A Court of Splintered Harmony (A Court of Thorns and Roses, # 6) by Sarah J Maas
Homeschool Friday - Let's Go for a Drive
Homeschool Friday - A Panda in the Bamboo Forest
Homeschool Firday - Clifford for President
July 2026 EOM Wrap Up

Goals:
I'm a few days ahead on my Bible-in-a-year plan.
I've read 102 out of 110 books (including children's books).