Sunday Post - 11/30/25

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 we decorated the house for Christmas. Big Girl had pitching practice. And then both big kids went to martial arts. Tuesday, we ran to Walmart for the boys to spend some money that was burning a hole in their pockets. Then we went to my parent's house. We went back to Walmart for my grocery pickup on the way home. Tuesday night, they also had martial arts. Wednesday was a pretty normal day. I got a huge amount of Christmas shopping done online. I'm actually done shopping for my kids except stockings. Thursday morning, I got my Thanksgiving cooking done. The kids went to Grammy's early. We got there a little after 11. Thankfully, lunch was almost ready so we didn't have to wait long to eat. We hung out at Grammy's all day and had dinner there before we came home. Friday, we went to my cousin's house in Troy. Every Black Friday she has a family reunion at her house. It was a smaller crowd this year, but we always have a good time seeing family that we only see about once a year. Saturday, I was so glad to have a nothing day. I read some. I worked on my Christmas puzzle. I was generally lazy and rested which was much needed. I can't believe tomorrow is December.

THE PAST WEEK

Monday: Review of The Marriage Method (The Crinoline Academy, # 2) by Mimi Matthews (4 Stars)

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: November 2025 EOM Wrap Up
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait Wednesday?
Thursday: Review of Better Than the Movies (Better Than the Movies, # 1) by Lynn Painter
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Courageous World Changes

NEW BOOKS:

No new books this week.

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!

The Marriage Method - Review

The Marriage Method (The Crinoline Academy, # 2)

By: Mimi Matthews

Expected Publication: November 25, 2025 by Berkley

416 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

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--The Academy always comes first . . . which makes marriage to its most formidable adversary an exceedingly inconvenient arrangement.

Well removed from London’s more curious eyes, the Benevolent Academy for the Betterment of Young Ladies strives toward one clandestine to distract, disrupt, and discredit men in power who would seek to harm the advancement of women—by appropriate means, of course.

When intrepid newspaper editor Miles Quincy starts to question the school’s intentions, the Academy appoints Penelope “Nell” Trewlove, one of their brightest graduates, to put this nuisance to rest. An easy enough mission, she supposes. Or it would be, if Miles wasn’t so fascinating—too fascinating to resist—and if Nell’s visit to London didn’t perfectly coincide with the murder of one of Miles’s reporters.

When the inexorable claws of fate trap Nell and Miles in a compromising situation, they agree to an arrangement that will save their reputations while enabling them to investigate the story that led to a man’s death, as well as the surprising chemistry between them . . .

The Crinoline Academy borders on mystery. I struggle with mysteries because they often allow the plot to overtake the relationships. Relationships are what I read for. A good story is important too, but if the plot/mystery takes a higher priority over the relationships between the characters I can get bored. That wasn't really the case with The Marriage Method. Despite the many Mimi Matthews books that I've read, I worried that would be the case. I'm thankful that it wasn't.

We met Nell (Penelope) and Miles in the previous book, Rules for Ruin. Nell grew up at the orphanage and is now a teacher and deputy headmistress of the school. She has been sent to London for a couple of reasons. The first is to get reporter, Miles, off the scent of the Academy. Miles first picked up the scent of the Academy when he met Effie and published a story about a corrupt Lord. Nell and Miles have a meeting to discuss Miles's questions about the Academy. Nell's job is to steer his interests away. But Miles's cat gets caught in her crinoline tape and he has to remove it. A clergyman who supports the school walks into his office at the exact time Miles is under Nell's skirt to remove the cat. Of course, a scandal ensues, and Nell and Miles are forced into a marriage to preserve the respectability of the school and the paper Miles runs.

Miles and Nell have a couple of stories they are following. One is a young girl who was transferring from a workhouse to the Academy but has gone missing. The other is a murdered reporter. Can the two have anything in common?

I do love forced marriages. Nell and Miles were both easy to root for. They were complex characters, and I enjoyed their story from start to finish. I had a few moments when I wanted to put the book down just for the sake of anticipating negative events or conflict on the horizon. This past week in the real world has been heavy, and when I got to any potential danger for these characters I instinctively put the book down and walked away for a bit. I do anticipate that Garrick and Gemma will be the leading characters for the next book in the series. I'm not sure if Flora will get her own book or not, but even her short part in this book had me wanting more from her--I especially want to see a happily-ever-after for her.

I will give readers a heads up that the husband and wife do have on-page sex. But it is so tastefully done and not physically descriptive. Most of Mimi Matthews's books do not get close to on page physical scenes, but I don't think you will find much to complain about if this bothers you.

The Marriage Method gets 4 Stars. I enjoyed it from start to finish. I really don't have any complaints. I can't wait to continue the series. Have you read The Marriage Method ? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday Post - 11/23/25

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.

Husband got a jury duty summons for Monday. He ended up getting selected for a criminal SA case of a minor that was going to include pictures, video, and testimony from the minor. Thankfully on Tuesday, the defendant changed his plea the guilty once he realized that he could get life if convicted by a jury. So they didn't have to try the case. I know someone has to be the one to convict criminals in cases like this, but I'm so thankful that he didn't have to have those images, videos, and testimony in his head. Monday, Big Girl had pitching lessons. We got on and week and off a week it seems with mean girls. It's the same kids every week, but one of them just seems to struggle with her heart. The big kids went to martial arts after pitching practice. Big Girl got a little behind when her toe was broken and belt testing is coming up, so she wants to make sure she doesn't get passed by her brother. Tuesday, we didn't get to go to my parent's house because my mom was going to be gone. Tuesday night the big kids went to martial arts again. Wednesday was a normal day. Thursday, Scout had a grooming appointment. After dropping him off, the kids and I went to Hobby Lobby. We had to get ornaments for our upcoming family reunion in a couple of weeks where we play Dirty Santa. Thursday night, they had martial arts again. Friday was a normal day. Saturday, I spent all day cleaning and taking down our fall decorations. Big Girl asked me to sell a horse barn playset that she didn't play with anymore. So we had to meet up with the buyer for that (someone I know bought it).

THE PAST WEEK

Monday: Review of Secret Nights and Northern Lights by Megan Oliver (3 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Jesus and the Lions' Den by Alison Mitchell (5 Stars)

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of The Marriage Method (The Crinoline Academy, # 2) by Mimi Matthews
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait Wednesday?
Thursday: Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Friday: Happy Black Friday!

NEW BOOKS:

Her Hidden Fire

By: Cliodhna O'Sullivan

Publication: March 3, 2026 by Viking Books for Young Readers

448 pages

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Magic, Dragons

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--The first book in a searing new romantasy trilogy, perfect for fans of POWERLESS

If he has the ability to wield magical powers, everyone will rejoice – especially the girl who loves him.
But what happens when they realize she has the gift?

In a world where dragons stalk the skies and magical abilities are an elite privilege, the ruling family of Ailm’s Keep is on a knife can Ionain, the heir apparent, channel magic, or will the family be cast out and replaced by a cruel master from a neighbouring land?

So when Éadha, a servant girl who loves Ionain, discovers that she can draw power, she finds herself in grave danger. It’s extremely rare for a girl to have this talent, and certainly never outside the great families. At Ionain’s moment of truth, Éadha makes a desperate gamble to save him, Ailm’s Keep, and ultimately herself.

As Éadha and Ionain enter a whirlwind of patriarchy, class, heartache and jealousy, they learn about power’s terrible cost – a price others willingly pay to maintain theirs.

How far would you go to empower the one you love?

Brimstome (Fae & Alchemy, # 2)

By: Callie Hart

Expected Publication: November 18, 2025 by Forever

672 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Fae, Romantasy Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--Duty. Blood. Honour. Power.

Saeris Fane doesn't want power. The very last thing she needs is her name whispered on an entire court's lips, but now that she's been crowned queen of the Blood Court, she's discovering that a queen's life is not her own. A heavy weight rests upon her shoulders.

Her ward - and her brother - need her back in her homeland . . . but the changes that have strengthened Saeris have also made her weak. Born under blazing suns, Saeris will surely die if she makes her way home through the Quicksilver. Which means that, once again, she must send someone else in her stead . . .

'Keep your mouth shut. Stick to the shadows. And for the love of all seven Gods, do NOT crack any jokes.'

Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate has defeated armies and survived all manner of horrors, but traveling back to Zilvaren with Carrion Swift might just be the death of him. The male just will not shut up. Hidden dangers await them down the narrow alleyways of the Silver City. Unfolding secrets pose impossible threats. Fisher must wrangle the smuggler and accomplish his goals quickly if he wants to see his mate again.

A darkness falls across Yvelia. The realm and their friends are in danger. Together, Saeris and Fisher will pass through fire and brimstone to save them.

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 - Jesus and the Lions' Den

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

Jesus and the Lions' Den

By: Alison Mitchell

Illustrated By: Catalina Echeverri

Publication: September 1, 2019 by The Good Book Company

31 pages

Genre: Children, Picture Books, Christian

Source: Own/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--An illustrated retelling of Daniel and the lions' den that helps children to see Jesus in the story of Daniel.

We've all heard of Daniel and the lions' den. But many probably haven't heard of Jesus and the lions' den. This book tells the Biblical story of Daniel as an Israelite captive in Babylon, where he has gained favor from King Darius. Yet many would love to see Daniel brought low. The beginning of the book talks about how we can often spot "Jesus moments" in the Bible, specifically the Old Testament stories. So it warns readers to look out for a specific symbol to be found throughout the story, where a character is behaving like Jesus or a situation is similar to one Jesus faced.

Next, the book details Daniel's habit of prayer and how nothing could be found about Daniel to bring to the king against him, except his faithful prayer habit. Because the law of the Medes and Persians could not be changed once made, Darius had to enforce the law he was tricked into making, that no one could pray to anyone but him for 30 days. Daniel would be thrown into the lions' den. Even though Darius could not find a way to save Daniel himself, he hoped that Daniel's God would be able to. The next morning, Darius rushed to the lions' den and found Daniel safe. God had saved him. King Darius made a new law that Daniel's God would be recognized as the real king of all people.

The book then directs the reader to stop and make sure they have located all four symbols for Jesus moments in the story. And then proceeds to point out each moment and what those moments mean.

I love that after the story, there is a section dedicated to "how do we know about Daniel and the Lions' Den." It focuses on Biblical truths along with historical information. And it directs the reader to other Old Testament stories that also have Jesus moments in them. Truly, the entire Bible is about Jesus and His redemption of man.

Jesus and the Lions' Den is about as good as you can get for a children's picture book in my opinion. I love bringing in picture books that focus on Biblical stories. Kids really remember the pictures that go with the stories. My kids all love this book. And I love that the Biblical teaching isn't just surface-level. There is depth here as well. Jesus and the Lions' Den gets 5 Stars. Have you or your child read Jesus and the Lions' Den? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for Without a Clue

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.

Without a Clue

By: Melissa Ferguson

Expected Publication: February 17, 2026 by Thomas Nelson

336 pages

Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Christian

( 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.

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

Secret Nights and Northern Lights - Review

Secret Nights and Northern Lights

By: Megan Oliver

Publication: November 18, 2025 by Berkley

384 pages

Genre: Adult, Contemporary

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--Childhood best friends and first loves are reunited on a make-or-break work trip to Iceland, with old feelings coming to the surface in this charming romance from debut author Megan Oliver.

Mona Miller lives her life by she’s just fine, thanks; all good; not a problem! Everything is right as rain—even if it’s all a lie. Everyone at the travel magazine where she works knows her as a team player (in other words, the one who won’t complain about the endless fluff pieces pushed her way). But, feeling snubbed after being passed over for a promotion, Mona jumps at an international assignment to Iceland, even though she’s woefully unprepared.

She’s determined to prove her worth, though, and her can-do attitude will scale any glacier. But the freelance photographer paired with her is none other than Benjamin Carter. Ben, her childhood best friend who understood her even when her family didn’t. Ben, her first love—first everything. And Ben, the boy who ghosted her fourteen years ago and left her brokenhearted.

There is a decade’s worth of resentment Mona needs to ignore if she wants to make it through this trip. She’ll put on her “No worries!” façade and hold Ben at a distance. But the more time they spend together, the more the ice around her heart melts. And as those old feelings spark back to life, Mona must decide if she’s willing to go on the biggest adventure of all.

Secret Nights and Northern Lights is the second book I've read in a short span of time that is set in Iceland. I thought that was funny. But I also recognized some of the places from the previous book. At least, I recognized their names and descriptions. I haven't actually visited these places for myself. The scenes came to life through Megan Oliver's description. It was easy to see that she had taken the same or a similar journey as these characters. And then, after the book was over, she states that she did, in fact, take a similar trip. It was obvious through her descriptive writing.

Mona is working as a journalist at a travel magazine. Until recently, she's only been assigned to cover locally. But this is the opportunity of a lifetime, she's being offered an international assignment to Iceland. The only trouble is that she's being assigned a photographer with whom she has a history.

Mona and Ben were once first loves. Ben was best friends with her brothers and was around all the time growing up. They had something special, or so Mona thought. But Ben basically removed himself from their entire family with no word. Mona was heartbroken. Yet she refuses to let her past with him stand in the way of the promotion she's been working toward.

Ben asked for this assignment. The travel magazine that Mona works for has been after him as a photographer for years. But he only agreed to the assignment if he was partnered with Mona. He's read to tell Mona what happened all those years ago, but Mona isn't ready to listen. She just wants to accomplish the job. The only problem is that they are forced together through so many experiences that can't help but bring the two of them together.

I was a little annoyed with Mona. She was heading towards rekindling things with Ben but without being willing to talk to him about what happened to tear them apart all those years ago. How can you consider starting up again when you don't know what went wrong the previous time? It blows my mind.

I will say that a major, MAJOR complaint of mine was the number of GDs used. Some cursing I can skim over. I think there might have been 16ish. I mean multiple uses of this word in a chapter--sometimes as many as three times in a chapter. It was excessive. And I have a particular disdain for this word.

One other small note is that Mona fell asleep on Ben on the airplane and did the whole "waking up so comfortable, not realizing that she's actually snuggled up to him." And then Megan Oliver has her turn around and do this again at another point in the book. I find that to be poor writing. Once is enough if you're going to throw in something cliche like that.

Other than those issues, I did enjoy Secret Nights and Northern Lights. The description of the places that Mona and Ben visited came to life, making me feel like I'd visited them too. I liked the direction Mona went with her article. I liked the backstory and even the reason why Ben left abruptly back when they were still in high school. But all those GDs were killing me. Secret Nights and Northern Lights ultimately gets 3 Stars. Have you read Secret Nights and Northern Lights? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday Post - 11/16/25

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 normal school day. The weather was super cold. The high was only 45. Big Girl had pitching practice. Tuesday, my dad was sick so we didn't visit with them. We did do grocery pick up. And I actually had to run into the store before picking my groceries up for a few things that I missed on my order. Tuesday being Veteran's Day, I had planned to take the day off school, but we ended up doing school anyway, so we could switch and take Thursday off. Wednesday was another normal day. The weather was back into the 70s. Thursday, we took the day off school. We ended up having a playdate at a local park with some friends. We got home around lunch time. The big kids had martial arts that night. Friday was a normal day. This has been a really good school week, and I'm so thankful for that. Friday night we had dinner at my parent's house to celebrate November birthdays in our family. We got to meet my nephew's girlfriend. And then Saturday was a beautiful day. I did some reading and some house work. The kids entertained themselves most of the day. It was just a super great week.

THE PAST WEEK

Monday: Review of Threaded Lies (Tangled Hearts, # 2) by K. Bromberg (3 Stars)
Wednesday: Can't Wait for The Last Page by Katie Holt
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Go and Do Likewise by John Hendrix (4.5 Stars)

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of Secret Nights & Northern Lights by Megan Oliver
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait Wednesday?
Thursday: Review of Red Queen (Red Queen, # 1) by Victoria Aveyard
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Jesus and the Lion's Den

NEW BOOKS:

Thorns & Fire (The Ashes of Thezmarr, # 2)

By: Helen Scheuerer

Publication: July 31, 2025 by Alchemy

448 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Magic, Fae

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--Perfect for romantasy fans, Helen Scheuerer’s spellbinding sequel to Iron & Embers, Thorns & Fire, delivers heart-wrenching choices, a found family to root for and a love that defies the odds.

A golden thread joined them, a bond that went deeper than love – and it had nearly destroyed them.

Wren Embervale and Torj Elderbrock share a dark and bloody history. With Thezmarr on the brink of another war, and overwhelmed by the force of their feelings for one another, Torj discovers there is far more to their bond than mere passion. The legendary Warsword is determined to protect Wren at all costs, even if it means lying to her . . . Even if it means losing her forever.

Meanwhile, Wren is struggling to find her place in the world – both as an advanced student of alchemy at the ancient academy of Drevenor, and as one of the heirs to a lost kingdom. With the midrealms once again facing destruction, Wren must decide: loyalty or liberation? Legacy or love?

As new political players emerge, Wren discovers that her gift for alchemy is more powerful than she ever imagined – and that it could tear the kingdoms apart.

Will she and Torj find their way back to each other, or will the ancient magic that binds them become their undoing?

From the author of the bestselling The Legends of Thezmarr series, Thorns & Fire by Helen Scheuerer is the second book in The Ashes of Thezmarr trilogy.

Silver & Smoke (The Ashes of Thezmarr, # 3)

By: Helen Scheuerer

Expected Publication: March 31, 2026 by Tor Bramble

444 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Magic, Fae

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--Alchemist. Poisoner. Reluctant Queen.

Wren Embervale knows her duty demands a crown, even if it means a strategic betrothal to the influential Lord Darian Devereux. Their arranged marriage promises the formidable army she needs to wrestle her kingdom from the clutches of the tyrannical usurper, Silas. Yet, Wren’s heart still belongs to Torj Elderbrock, her soul-bonded Warsword.

Torn between her pragmatic alliance and the visceral pull of her bond with Torj, Wren must navigate a treacherous landscape of courtly intrigue and looming war. As Silas’s shadow alchemy tightens its grip on the midrealms and a creeping poison steals Torj’s strength, Wren’s carefully constructed facade begins to crack.

Can she play the dutiful fiancée to secure her throne, while her body and soul yearns for the warrior who would lay down his life for her? Or will the tangled threads of political necessity leave her kingdom—and her heart—in ashes?

From the Sunday Times bestselling author of Iron & Embers, Silver & Smoke is the blistering finale to the Ashes of Thezmarr series.

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 - Go and Do Likewise

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

Go and Do Likewise

By: John Hendrix

Publication: February 2, 2021 by Abrams Books for Young Readers

40 pages

Genre: Children, Picture Books, Christian

Source: Own/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--The parables and teachings of Jesus are brought to life in this stunning picture book from award-winning author and illustrator John Hendrix

But Jesus was going somewhere.
His journey to find those most in need of him began anew each morning.
Jesus walked . . . and ever since, people have followed him.

Through parables of the good Samaritan and the prodigal son, the lost sheep and the beatitudes, Jesus taught his disciples the redeeming power of sacrificial love and showed mercy to everyone around him—especially the sick, the poor, and the downtrodden.

In this inspirational and richly illustrated book, John Hendrix brings to life the wisdom of Jesus. Interweaving hand lettering with his signature, award-winning art style, Hendrix captures the spirit of Jesus’s timeless message that will resonate with readers of any Christian faith.

First off, the illustrations of Go and Do Likewise aren't my favorite. Well, some of the pages I really like, and others I don't like at all. This isn't my preferred art style. I do like words being incorporated into art. I find it hard to describe the things I don't like. I'm not an artist at all, so I don't have the vocabulary to describe what I dislike.

This book is about the parables that Jesus taught. Of course, it doesn't cover all of the parables, only a few. He includes the good Samaritan, the Sermon on the Mount, the wise & foolish builder, the shepherd who left the 99, and the prodigal son, to name a few.

I appreciated the author's note at the end that told why the author loves parables so much and his personal connection between the parables of Jesus and his art. I also appreciated the section at the end on "retelling vs. translating." It should be noted (and is in this section) that this book isn't exactly a translation but a retelling. Retellings allow the author to use poetic license to adjust or add to the story to fit a modern reader or situational adjustments. These have been created for young audiences. I don't like the recommendation to read The Message as a translation. I'm not a fan of it and prefer to read one of the more literal translations of the Bible myself.

All in, Go and Do Likewise is another way of getting Biblical content in front of our children. Whether you're a believer or not, there's no teaching of Jesus that would harm your life. You can use all of His teachings to become better people for yourself and those around you. And I appreciate picture books that reinforce His teachings for my children. Go and Do Likewise gets 4.5 Stars from me. Have you or your child read Go and Do Likewise? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for The Last Page

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.

The Last Page

By: Katie Holt

Expected Publication: May 12, 2026 by Alcove Press

320 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--A bookseller with a dream of running her beloved bookstore vs. the owner’s out-of-touch grandson who inherits everything. Game on.

From the author of Not in My Book comes another irresistible, bookish contemporary romance.

Ella has grown up at The Last Page, a charming local bookstore in New York City where she now works. Her first kiss was in the women’s health section. A boyfriend dumped her in comedy. The owner is like a second father to her and has begun training her to take over the store. So when he unexpectedly dies and his estranged grandson is left everything in the will, Ella is devastated.

Henry doesn’t know the first thing about running a bookstore. With his aging mom back in Tennessee, he plans to stay in New York just long enough to ensure things are running smoothly and then head back home. What he never could have counted on was the beautiful, funny bookseller who loves The Last Page more than any place in the world—and who sees him as the villain who’s come to ruin her life.

But when it becomes evident that the store is in deep financial trouble and Henry and Ella are both at risk of losing everything, they have no choice but to put their differences aside and team up—despite the inconvenient chemistry blossoming between them.

Fans of Christina Lauren and Ali Hazelwood will adore this rivals-to-friends-to-lovers bookish romance!

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

Threaded Lies - Review

Threaded Lies (Tangled Hearts, # 2)

By: K. Bromberg

Expected Publication: October 14, 2025 by Bramble

352 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--Holden
I let my guard down.
And got screwed over by a woman without even knowing why.
But it won’t happen again.
Because the only thing I care about is burning this whole place down.

Rowan
Two can play this game.
I gave my heart to a man who set out from the get-go to destroy it.
Now I’m more than ready to show him just who he messed with.
You wanted a war, Holden Knight.
You’ve got one.

Holden Knight has a plan to take down two men and their families that were responsible for the hit and run that killed his brother along with the coverup that resulted. In the previous book, Twisted Knight, you can see that Holden's plan originally included taking down Rowan as well. He had an interaction or two with her twin sister that led him to believe she was the same as the rest of her family, but he has since realized that she isn't. And his plans have changed. But all of the lies that he told at the beginning of the previous book are catching up with him.

Rowan fell in love with Holden. But now she's uncovered a piece of his plan which was to cut her out of the company she has worked so hard to keep going for her grandmother's sake. She loves the company, and she realizes that she never trusted Holden, perhaps with good reasons. She goes about trying to acheive her goal by other means which is to get married so she can get her inheritance. She agrees to marry, Chad, one of the men in Holden's sights and a man that has been in love with her his whole life. Chad knows she isn't agreeing to marry him because she loves him. But he's willing to play his part to get what he wants. Only Rowan begins to see that Holden is keeping up his end of the bargain and giving her all of the things he agreed to.

Language is intense. But thankfully, the physical scenes weren't as intense as the previous book--except maybe the dress scene. There wasn't as many of them, I don't think. It isn't like I counted them. I do wish skipping those spicy scenes was easier to do on audio.

The plot brought me back for this second book. And I do plan to finish the series out. But personal preferences are less language and less spice. I am giving Threaded Lies 3 Stars. If I wasn't already invested, I probably would have skipped this series, but now that I'm here, I need to know what's going to happen in the end. Have you read or listened to Threaded Lies? What did you think? Let me know!

Sunday Post - 11/09/25

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 the makeup field trip day for Little Boy's class to the local farm that we go to every year. I don't know what his deal was that day. He wasn't listening, and he wasn't being kind to one of his friends. After the farm, we came home to have lunch. Then the boys and I ran to pickup the consignment items that didn't sell. On the way home from that, I picked up my prescription. Big Girl had pitching practice. Tuesday, I had my annual physical with my GP. I had to wake up early to go to that. All of my numbers look good except one of my cholesterol numbers. No surprise that I need to diet and exercise. Which I've already lost 8 pounds, so I'm trying. Holiday season is quickly approaching though, and that's going to be hard with so many events and parties. The kids were finished with their school work by the time I got home. Husband helped Big Boy, and Big Girl is pretty independent on her work. We went to my parents for a few hours after that, and then we did grocery pickup on the way home. The Big Kids had martial arts. Wednesday was a normal school day. We are breaking from Big Boy's one on one baseball lessons at least until after Christmas. Thursday, we have been going to the park pretty regularly on Thursdays, but we didn't have anything planned this week. And personally, I needed the downtime. We did the school work necessary. And then the Big Kids had martial arts again. Belt testing has been scheduled, so we know how long they have to work on their forms and material. Friday was a struggle for Big Boy. He just wasn't in the mood for school all day. Thankfully, there was no fussing about it. He just moved at a snail's pace all day. Saturday, I put the Christmas music on and cleaned house. I don't decorate until at least the week of Thanksgiving, but music is fair game--especially because Husband created a Christmas album of original songs. If you're interested, you can find it here on YouTube Music.

THE PAST WEEK

Monday: Review of Against a Crescent Storm (The Balkan Legends, # 3) by AL Sowards (4 Stars)
Tuesday: Ten Random Books on My 2025 TBR List
Thursday: Review of Lacey's Story: A Puppy Tale by W Bruce Cameron (4 Stars)
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Juniper's Christmas by Eoin Colfer (3 Stars)

UPCOMING THIS WEEK:

Monday: Review of Threaded Lies (Tangled Hearts, # 1) by K. Bromberg
Tuesday: Top Ten Tuesday?
Wednesday: Can't Wait Wednesday?
Thursday: Review of Red Queen (Red Queen, # 1) by Victoria Aveyard
Friday: Homeschool Friday - Go and Do Likewise

NEW BOOKS:

The Wicked and the Damned (Dark Inheritance Trilogy, # 2)

By: Rebecca Robinson

Expected Publication: February 24, 2026 by Solstice Books

416 pages

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, 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--In the exhilarating second romantasy novel in Rebecca Robinson’s Dark Inheritance Trilogy, a fiery couple forced apart must navigate a deadly maze of politics and power to reunite across a continent at war.

Torn from her husband Reid’s arms and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Vaasa is no longer a ruler, but a political pawn. Now under the control of Ozik—a cunning Zetyr witch with a stranglehold on her magic—she faces annulment, forced betrothal, and a kingdom that no longer feels like her own. As Ozik’s machinations aim to install himself as the true power behind the Asteryan throne, Vaasa is forced to take part in his game.

Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid is done playing politics. But waging war is never simple, and a soldier’s fury cannot stand up against Icruria’s bureaucracy. With allies fading and time slipping away, Reid may have no choice but to infiltrate Asterya on his own to find the woman he loves and bring her home.

As Vaasa’s magic begins to flare, she desperately seeks control, even if Ozik is the only one who can offer it. She then finds a cryptic final message from her mother about a precious missing necklace that might just be the answer to finally freeing her magic from Ozik. Yet when a ghost from Vaasa’s past reemerges among the suitors vying for her hand, escape might be within reach—but will it demand a betrayal that real love may not survive?

If You'll Have Me

By: Esther Hatch

Expected Publication: February 3, 2026 by Shadow Mountain Publishing

320 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

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--A lady desperately seeking freedom. A prosperous younger man. An unexpected connection.

Anna Atwood returns to Breckenridge, where she spent one blissful summer as a young woman. This time, though, she comes to the quaint town as a penniless spinster with a single hope: to build a life free from the constraints her father’s death put on her and free from the persistent suitor Mr. Green, whose plans for marriage are Anna’s worst nightmare. When she runs into David Tate, the boy she knew from that memorable summer, she finds he has grown into a confident and striking man. As they rekindle their friendship, David offers her warmth and protection in the moment she needs it most—when Mr. Green appears in town and threatens to destroy Anna’s carefully laid plans.

David Tate remembers Anna as the spirited woman who once brought light into his dark childhood. Now a man of means, he has a promising future, if he can withstand the powerful Lord Murphy—a man whose menacing hold on the town he owns is surpassed only by his relentless hold on David’s life. When David meets Anna again, he realizes he has a chance to save her from Mr. Green’s schemes, even if it means putting David in danger of Lord Murphy’s wrath and revealing David’s deepest secrets.

In a moment of desperation, David and Anna agree to a proposal of convenience to provide the safety they both need. But as their attraction ignites, the looming dangers from Lord Murphy and Mr. Green threaten to destroy their budding happiness.

The Duke's Sacred Vow

By: Isabel Jacobs

Expected Publication: September 25, 2025 by Grace Romance

262 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--Betrayed by her betrothed, she flees to a stranger. Haunted by his past, he offers salvation. Can two wounded souls find healing in each other?A wronged debutante and a disillusioned duke enter into a marriage of convenience—only to discover that trust, grace, and healing can grow even from the ashes of betrayal.

She needs to escape …
When Miss Annabel Ridley learns of her fiancé’s shocking betrayal, she knows she cannot proceed with the match—even if it means defying her father’s wishes and igniting scandal. Trapped between duty and danger, she flees to the one man powerful enough to help her—the Duke of Halmesbury, a stranger with a formidable reputation … and a surprising offer.

He needs to make amends …
Philip Markham, Duke of Halmesbury, has spent years hiding from heartache and mistakes he cannot undo. When a determined young woman arrives on his doorstep, desperate and brave, he sees an opportunity to do one thing right. He proposes a marriage of convenience to protect her—but as they draw closer, he finds himself yearning for more.

Can two hearts bound by necessity learn to love—and find peace in the providence neither dared to hope for?

As old wounds resurface and secrets come to light, Annabel and Philip must learn to trust one another—and to believe that sometimes, the most unexpected unions are those most touched by grace.

The Duke’s Sacred Vow is the moving first novel in the Brides of the Regency series by Isabel Jacobs. If you enjoy noble heroes, courageous heroines, and stories of romance woven with faith and emotional depth, then you will be captivated by this heartfelt tale of love, trust, and quiet redemption.

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 - Juniper's Christmas

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

Juniper's Christmas

By: Erin Colfer

Publication: October 31, 2023 by Roaring Brook Press

368 pages

Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Christmas

Source: Personal Kindle 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--From the acclaimed, mega-bestselling Eoin Colfer comes a heartwarming, adventurous Christmas the perfect gift for readers of all ages who believe in the power of hope, kindness, and holiday magic.

Eleven-year-old Juniper Lane is thrown into a Christmas adventure like no other when she seeks the help of a mysterious woodsman living in her local park, who she suspects is Santa himself, and accidentally gets exposed to North Pole magic. Join a boisterous cast of characters―including a neighbor who always believed in Santa, a young reindeer in training, and a cutthroat crime boss out to steal Santa’s magic―on an unpredictable journey bursting with Eoin Colfer’s signature exuberance and merriment. Complete with cheerful, festive illustrations, this is a beautifully packaged tale of wonder, sure to inspire the Christmas spirit in the whole family.

Celebrate the holidays with a story of hope, magic, and saving Santa Claus, from a celebrated author beloved for his spirited storytelling. Juniper’s Christmas is the perfect holiday read, year after year.

I have been wanting to read a seasonal read-aloud book with my kids for a few years. It never lined up for us to start a new read-aloud at a time that made sense to begin a Christmas book until this past year. We started Juniper's Christmas on December 5th, but we didn't finish until March 11th. We typically read every other night, but when activities make us late for bed, we skip reading those nights. So, it took WAY too long to read this book.

The book starts with Juniper's mom, Jennifer, going missing. Juniper is immediately thrust into a highly stressful and traumatic life event. Her father died shortly before the events of this book. So she has no guardian to look after her. Her parents have both been involved in charitable work, so a homeless lady, Duchess, who is familiar with the family and has babysat for Juniper before, steps in as her temporary guardian until Jennifer can be found. However, Juniper stumbles upon a man Duchess says can help her, and Juniper is convinced that he is Santa Claus, who has been missing for nearly 10 years. There are many layers to this book.

The high stakes had my kids invested in what was happening and what had happened to Juniper's mom from the beginning. The fictional world revolving around Santa Claus was done respectfully. I wasn't worried about my kids' belief being shattered. There is plenty of magic to be had, but I stressed ahead of time that this was a fictional story.

Why has Santa been missing for 10 years? What happened to Juniper's mom? Will the charity event that Juniper's dad was always involved in around Christmas continue? Or will it be shut down by selfish adults and thieves? What will happen now that Juniper has bonded with a reindeer? To top things off, Santa must pull out the wish list letters from his sack this year or Christmas will be destroyed forever. Many questions needed to be answered. Many challenges were wrapped together into one big ball. However, even with all of that, there were too many lulls in the story for my liking. That being said, our reading pace could have caused this particular feeling.

The writing style wasn't my favorite. It's hard to describe why. For one, I regularly stumbled when reading aloud because the words I expected to come next weren't the actual words. I imagine that many of the words used were based on some actual language I'm unfamiliar with. Skara, gifslaad, timboble, Tomescu, Sarika, etc. Being unfamiliar with the language of origin caused me to stumble even more. These would have been even more difficult words for a child reading this book on their own. A few comments were made that are mountain out of molehill things with ideology, but I noted them anyway. Nothing too severe or inappropriate for children, but noted regardless.

Favorite quote:

-"Mean words are the fruit of a sad tree," so Juniper couldn't help wondering what sad thing was making Rusty so mean.

-People are not born mean, and usually the journey from kind to mean is a long and torturous one filled with harsh life lessons...

Juniper's Christmas started off with a bang in the emotional stakes of Juniper's mom going missing. This created a desire to keep reading to find out what happened to her. However, I personally found there to be some lulls in the story, and I wasn't as interested in Trude Madden or her part of the story. Juniper's Christmas wasn't quite the Christmas story I was looking for. My 9-year-old daughter enjoyed it more than my 7-year-old son. Juniper's Christmas was just okay for me, so it gets 3 Stars. Have you or your child read Juniper's Christmas? What did you think? Let me know!

Lacey's Story - Review

Lacey's Story: A Puppy Tale (A Dog's Purpose)

By: W. Bruce Cameron

Publication: August 30, 2022 by Odd Dot

220 pages

Genre: Middle Grade, Animals

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--Lacey's Story is another delightful Puppy Tale from #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the A Dog's Purpose Series, W. Bruce Cameron!

Lacey is a very special dog with a very important purpose. After an accident, Lacey must get used to being followed around everywhere by a funny cart with wheels. Sometimes it makes her go too fast or in the wrong direction! But that doesn’t stop Lacey from having fun with her human girl Wenling and her best dog friend, Cooper. And when a tornado strikes, putting Wenling’s and Cooper’s families in danger, only Lacey and her cart can save the day.

The latest addition to the successful Puppy Tales series by #1 New York Times bestselling author W. Bruce Cameron is the inspiring and joyful story of a special needs pet who overcomes adversity and learns to live her best life after she is fitted with a mobility cart.

Adorable black-and-white illustrations by Richard Cowdrey bring Lacey and her world to life. A discussion and activity guide at the end of the book will help promote family and classroom discussions about Lacey's Story and the insights it provides about humankind's best friends.

My daughter (9 years old at the time) read Lacey's Story on her own time. She picked it out from the store with her own money. And she loved it so much that she requested I read it aloud to everyone when it was her next turn to choose the read aloud book. She has also requested two more books in this series after reading this as well.

Lacey's Story is about a little girl named Wenling and her dog, Lacey. The story is told from Lacey's perspective which adds a little humor. Lacey isn't well trained. She just wants to have fun all the time, but this means that she doesn't listen and obey and gets herself into an accident that results in her losing the use of her back legs. She has to have a special cart with wheels made so that she can still get around on her own. Of course, learning to use her new cart takes some adjustment and training.

Wenling is a special girl. She's very smart. Her father and their neighbor share a farm. Yet the farm has been struggling to make ends meet, and they might have to sell off the apple trees in their orchard for wood to simply make ends meet. Wenling thinks this is a terrible idea. She and her best friend, Burke, decide to work to contribute to the farm in order to save the apple trees.

From an adult view point, Wenling is a little too smart. All of the major challenges that come up through this book are solved by Wenling. I do like that this shows that even children can make a big impact, but I don't like that it shows adults at such a disadvantage. Isn't there some way to value to input and decision making of children while not diminishing the decision making of adults in the process?

Burke is also in a wheelchair, I liked the inclusion of this, especially as Burke and Lacey were mirrors in a lot of ways. Not to say that a human in a wheelchair is the same as a dog needing a wheeled cart, but Burke's situation lends value to Lacey's. I think Burke and his dog, Cooper's, story might have been published before this one. I do know that they have their own book because Cooper's Story is one that my daughter read after Lacey's Story.

Lacey's Story teaches many lessons which I can fully support. Having a passion for something and working hard to do whatever you can to see your dream or goal into reality. Hard work period. The importance of training our dogs. Also, the value in people and animals even if they aren't the same as they used to be or everyone else. (It's so hard to be politically correct. I keep wanting to say disabled, but I know some people take offense to the term. But you also never can predict what all someone will take offense to these days.)

Lacey's Story gets 4 Stars. My daughter loved this book so much. This is the first book she's ever shown interest in "re-reading." Have you or your child read Lacey's Story? What did you think? Let me know!

Ten Random Books On My 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 Ten Random Books On My TBR List

1. # 101 The Notorious Virtues (The Notorious Virtues, # 1) by Alwyn Hamilton
2. # 94 I Want to Trust You But I Don't by Lysa TerKeurst
3. # 54 When Calls the Heart by Janette Oke
4. # 131 Variation by Rebecca Yarros
5. # 116 The Seventh Champion (The Dragon Queen Duology, # 1) by Sylvia Mercedes
6. # 113 Phantasma (Wicked Games, # 1) by Kaylie Smith
7. # 48 Loving By Leading by Den A Trumball MD
8. # 90 The Monstrous Kind by Lydia Gregovic
9. # 110 Fallen City (Fallen City Duology, # 1) by Adrienne Young
10. # 85 Eight Dates: Essential Conversations for a Lifetime of Love by John M. Gottman

Are any of these books on your TBR list? Let me know!

Against a Crescent Storm - Review

Against a Crescent Storm (The Balkan Legends, # 3)

By: AL Sowards

Expected Publication: November 4, 2025 by Shadow Mountain Publishing

368 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

( 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 Serbs defied the world’s most powerful ruler, and now Danilo and Maja must fight to save their people and their newly forged love before the sultan exacts his revenge.

The Balkans, 1389

Three years ago, Danilo’s people won their freedom from the hated Ottoman Empire, but with enemies on every side, the Serbs’ hard-earned peace remains fragile. Knowing the sultan will soon come for revenge, Danilo sets out to gain key allies for the coming war—and to escape the haunting grief of personal loss.

War has orphaned Maja and her brother, but they’ve moved forward from the turbulent aftermath of battle by crafting religious mosaics. Yet after being cheated and robbed, they are desperate for help. Rescue comes from Danilo, the man who once saved them from slavery to the Turks. What begins as an offer for safe escort is soon complicated by threats from a Hungarian noble who suspects them of conspiracy and from Iskandar, an Ottoman spy consumed by a vendetta against Danilo and a dangerous obsession with Maja.

As their journey grows more perilous, Danilo and Maja are drawn together by shared grief and affection. Yet upon returning home, Danilo finds that his župan, unaware of Danilo’s growing emotional entanglement with Maja, plans to use Danilo’s hand in marriage as a tool to forge a crucial alliance. Danilo is soon torn between love for Maja and loyalty to his family and people.

As tensions escalate, sabotage and vicious rumors weaken Christian unity, and hope of victory in the Balkans grows dim. Allies and enemies converge on the fields of Kosovo, where an epic battle will shape the destiny of nations for centuries to come.

I've been looking forward to Danilo's story. He is the cousin to Konstanin, the main character of Beneath a Crescent Shadow, and the cousin and best friend of Ivan, the main character of Beyond the Crescent Sky. Danilo has been by Ivan's side from the beginning, and it's no different now. Danilo was married at some point during Beyond the Crescent Sky, but his wife and child died before the book was over. We never got too attached to their story as we just didn't see much of it. But it was an arranged marriage.

Against a Crescent Storm starts off with Maja and her brother seeking work. Their father was a mosaic artist that specialized in church scenes. Maja learned all from him, but being a woman and fairly young, she isn't offered many opportunities. Her parents were killed at the hands of Iksander in the previous book. Danilo and Ivan saved her and her brother, especially because Iksander wanted to capture Maja for his wife. A prisoner, slave wife anyway. Maja is terrified of Iksander, but she has so few options. She and her brother were almost captured on the road traveling to Sivi Gora looking for mosaic work. Surprisingly, Danilo and a group he was with saved her and her brother again.

Danilo starts with a desire to protect Maja and her brother. But through their repeated close proximity, he comes to see her in a deeper way. Yet things aren't smooth sailing for him. Being the cousin of a zupan means that Danilo will likely have to marry for a political alliance.

I was a little bummed that Iksander was still a part of the story. He was a great villian in that I hated him so much.

Favorite quotes:

-desire wasn’t the same as ability."

-He wanted revenge, and he wanted wealth. But more than those, he wanted to be important. He wanted to have influence and see his people grow into something grand.

A great statement for a villian to make.

-“Is it better to do what is wise or what is right?”

-There will always be threat, and there will always be evil. If you let them take you away from what you most want, what you most need, then you have given them an extra victory.”

-“It’s not our deaths themselves that we must offer up, just our willingness to sacrifice all for the sake of our people.

-Sometimes, we serve our cause best with our deaths. Other times, we serve our cause best with our lives. I am prepared to give either.”

-“Once rescued, and you never left my mind. Twice rescued, and you never left my heart. Thrice rescued, and I pray you will never leave my side.”

I have really developed a love for historical fiction. Yet this time isn't one that I've spent too much time learning about. These stories really show me how much I have to appreciate about the age I live in. Of course, all times and places have pros and cons. I appreciated the Christianity woven through this story.

Against a Crescent Storm was everything I hoped it would be. And I would love for AL Sowards to keep writing books in this time. Against a Crescent Storm get 4 Stars. Have you read Against a Crescent Storm? What did you think? Let me know!

September & October EOM Wrap Ups

September

I read 10 books (not including children's books).
Indescribable: 100 Devotions About God and Science by Louie Giglio (re-read)
How to Take the Grrrr Out of Anger by Elizabeth Verdick
The Governess and the Rogue (Somerset Stories, # 6) by Mimi Matthews
Lacey's Story: A Puppy Tale (A Dog's Purpose) by W. Bruce Cameron
Red Queen (Red Queen, # 1) by Victoria Aveyard
The Marriage Method (The Crinoline Academy, # 2) by Mimi Matthews
The Little Wild Library: Elder: Simple things to do with the plants around you. by Clare Gogerty
Room to Breathe by Kasie West
Threaded Lies (Tangled Hearts, # 2) by K. Bromberg
Heartless Hunter (Crimson Moth, # 1) by Kristen Ciccarelli

I have reviewed 6 books (not including mini reviews of children's books).
Splendor of the Land (The King's Men, # 3) by Connilyn Cossette
To Hunt an Heiress by Martha Keyes
Shadows & Storms (The Legends of Thezmarr, # 4) by Helen Scheuerer
The Little Wild Library: Elder: Simple things to do with the plants around you. by Clare Gogerty
City of Gods and Monsters (House of Devils, # 1) by Kayla Edwards
Winterset by Tiffany Odekirk

Other Posts:
Sunday Post - 09/07/25
Sunday Post - 09/14/25
Sunday Post - 09/21/25
Sunday Post - 09/28/25
Top Ten Fall 2025 TBR List
Ten Fall Book Covers from My TBR List
Can't Wait for Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen
Can't Wait for Woman Down by Colleen Hoover
Can't Wait for The House Saphir by Marissa Meyer
Homeschool Friday - Booger the Bigfoot
Homeschool Friday - A Crown for Kate
Homeschool Friday - Curious George: Dog Show
Homeschool Friday - How to Take the Grrrr Out of Anger
July & August 2025 EOM Wrap Up

October

My annual "All Things Halloween" event is ending. This is my month-long event where I feature reviews from Halloween-y genres (fantasy, paranormal, supernatural, sci-fi, horror, mystery, thriller, and suspense). Over the last few years I've had mostly fantasy books as I just haven't been in the mood for much horror, but still...these are books that can get you in the mood for Halloween.

I read 3 books (not including children's books).
Better Than the Movies (Better Than the Movies, # 1) by Lynn Painter
Prince Caspian (The Chronicles of Narnia, # 2?/4?) by CS Lewis
Glass Sword (Red Queen, # 2) by Victoria Aveyard

I have reviewed 10 books (not including mini reviews of children's books).
A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash, # 5) by Jennifer L Armentrout
Kingdom of the Wicked (Kingdom of the Wicked, # 1) by Kerri Maniscalco
Metal Slinger (Fire & Metal, # 1) by Rachel Schneider
A Scar in the Bone (A Fire in the Sky, # 2) by Sophie Jordan
Iron & Embers (The Ashes of Thezmarr, # 1) by Helen Scheuerer
Spark of the Everflame (Kindred's Curse, # 1) by Penn Cole
Glow of the Everflame (Kindred's Curse, # 2) by Penn Cole
Heat of the Everflame (Kindred's Curse, # 3) by Penn Cole
House of Blood and Earth (Crescent City, # 1) by Sarah J Maas
One Dark Window (The Shepherd King, # 1) by Rachel Gillig

Other Posts:
Sunday Post - 10/05/25
Sunday Post - 10/12/25
Sunday Post - 10/19/25
Sunday Post - 10/26/25
Can't Wait for Stranger Things Have Happened by Kasie West
Can't Wait for The Wicked and the Damned (Dark Inheritance, # 2) by Rebecca Robinson
Can't Wait for Light Wielder (Fire & Metal, # 2) by Rachel Schneider
Can't Wait for The Duke's Bargain by Megan Walker
Can't Wait for Burn of the Everflame (Kindred's Curse, # 4) by Penn Cole
Homeschool Friday - I Really Like Slop!
Homeschool Friday - Jack and the Lost Maze
Homeschool Friday - Jane and the King
Homeschool Friday - Lewis and Clark Go West

Goals:
I'm a few days ahead in my Bible-in-a-year plan.
I've read 139 out of 75 books (including children's books).