THOUGHTFUL MONDAY

 Good morning, friends.

All my best!

~ Angela

FRIDAY PHOTO

 Good morning!

Flying in a bit late today but finally feeling more normal. Those sugar spikes are horrid but they don't come often. Just didn't take care of myself at conference last week like I should have. I'll have a conference post next Thursday.

In the mean time, I'm all about spooky season:

Courtesy of dipakpatel on Pixabay

All my best!

~ Angela

WEDNESDAY REVIEW - October's Kindest Secret

 Good morning, everyone!

First, my intent was to get posts uploaded while at the conference. I had horrid internet. I only work from my laptop for these posts and I couldn't get more than a single bar WHEN I could connect at all.

Also, through the conference, I wasn't able to eat on my schedule or properly so my sugar spiked. My Tuesday morning, I was ill and I slept all day Wednesday. That's what I have to do after one of these episodes. Thankfully, they don't happen often. I'm closer to myself today and diving in. Not hard, but at least trying to catch up. 

Which brings me to today's review:

AMAZON

BLURB:

A joyful surprise can hide a painful truth—and Naomi Mercer is done trusting what no one will explain. 

October has painted Gracefield, Tennessee, in copper and gold, and caterer Naomi Mercer has one important assignment: plan a secret Pastor Appreciation Lunch for the man who helped her family through its darkest season. The trouble is that the church has paired her with Gideon Hale, the dependable carpenter who once disappeared from her life without a word.

Gideon believes faithful love means serving quietly and protecting other people’s burdens. Keeping one celebration under wraps should be easy. Instead, covert orchard runs, after-hours meetings with Naomi’s sister, a mysterious envelope, and a treasured recording from Naomi’s late mother make every good intention look like another betrayal.

As their hidden preparations grow increasingly complicated—and increasingly funny—old affection begins to return. But when an autumn storm threatens the lunch and Naomi receives an offer that could take her away from Gracefield, both must decide whether a second chance can survive without brave, honest trust.

To be honest, I found the reading slow and the whole premise of a 'surprise' a bit broken up. First off, the whole organized method, right down to measurements of table placing was a bit much. I've never seen anyone organize something so detailed. Planners, notes, etc I can see (and use) but everything else pulled me away from where the author wanted to lead. 

As I read, I felt as if I were reading an AI story similar to what I listen to on YouTube. Not just in the detail but how the wording is presented. I'm NOT saying she used AI, I'm just saying that was the overall feeling. I want something I can immerse myself in the story. October's Kindest Secret was not that story for me.

But here's the good news. Arabella can write tension. Not 'sexual tension' per say (since it is a Christian story at it's core) but the slow move from 'how can I work with him' to "we make a good team, don't you think."

I enjoy Amish and Christian romances from the 'clean/ sweet' perspective. If you like being led by bible verses throughout the story, then this book is for you. 

I'm giving October's Kindest Secret...

.5

All my best!

~ Angela

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - Arabella G. Hamilton

 Good morning, friends!

I'm just back from the Ozark Creative Writers Conference. Fabulous weekend of celebration and meet-up with friends I only get to see in October.

Today, I'm sharing the talent of Arabella G. Hamilton.

Arabella G. Hamilton is a beloved voice in contemporary Christian romance, crafting stories that explore the beautiful intersection where love meets divine purpose. Her novels are known for their emotional depth, genuine faith elements, and the hopeful message that true love flourishes within Christian principles.

Drawing from her deep understanding of human relationships and spiritual growth, Arabella creates characters who face real-world challenges while discovering God's plan for their lives. Her work offers clean, uplifting romance that honors both the complexity of human emotions and the transformative power of faith.

When she's not writing, Arabella enjoys quiet mornings with her Bible and coffee, tending to her garden, and spending time with her local church community. She finds inspiration in everyday moments of grace and believes that every love story is ultimately a reflection of God's love for us. 

Residing in a charming small town that inspires her close-knit fictional communities, Arabella is passionate about encouraging other writers and frequently speaks about the importance of faith-based literature.

"I believe every love story is a small miracle, and every heart that finds its home in both human love and divine grace is a testament to God's beautiful design for our lives."

I'll be back tomorrow with my review of October's Kindest Secret. In the mean time, you can find more about Arabella by clicking on the links below. 

Goodreads   Audible

Amazon Author Page

All my best!

~ Angela

THOUGHTFUL MONDAY

 Good morning, everyone!

All my best!

~ Angela

REVIEW WEDNESDAY - The October Book Shop

 Hi everyone!

Sorry for the delay. My hotel room is down below a hill and connection is spotty at best. 

I've really been looking forward to today's review.

AMAZON

BLURB:

A hidden bookshop. A grieving writer. A story that knows her name.

In Thistlemoor, a magical shop appears only in October—just when Clara Bell needs it most.

Whispers of the past, blank pages of the future, and one choice that changes everything.

A cozy, heartwarming novella about lost stories, second chances, and the magic of books.

I've never read a book laid out in such a way. The formating was as unique as the story itself.  For me, October is a month full of possibilities and magic. The October Bookshop gave me that. From the moment Clara spies a bookshop down an anney, that no one in town believes exists, until the true magic of the story is revealed to everyone, this book kept me enthralled. Books with blank pages? Promps of possibilities? Lines appear after you've dreamt them?

There isn't anything spooky about the story, really. Just the imagination of what has been and what could be. The cat is a great touch. No old bookshop would be complete without one.  I hope you enjoy this seasonal story as much as I did.

I'm giving THE OCTOBER BOOK SHOP...

The October Book Shop is Book 2 o the Cozy Holiday Season Collection.

All my best!

~ Angela

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - Amanpreet Kaur

 Good morning, everyone.

Apoligies for the delay in posting. Blogger decided to crash yesterday morning. So  you're seeing the Author Spotlight today then the review tomorrow (Thursday)

Here's a bit about Amanpreet:

Amanpreet Kaur is a contemporary author who writes heartfelt cozy romance, small-town fiction, and uplifting self-help books. Her work is deeply rooted in themes of love, hope, and comfort, offering readers a sense of warmth and emotional connection through every story.

Currently pursuing a Master of Computer Applications (MCA), Amanpreet began her journey as a self-publisher with a clear vision to build a meaningful presence in the literary world. Blending creativity with purpose, she crafts stories that celebrate simple moments, human relationships, and personal growth.

With a growing portfolio of work, Amanpreet Kaur continues to inspire and engage readers, striving toward worldwide recognition as both an author and a self-publisher.

While you wait for my review post tomorrow, please check out her links below:

Goodreads    AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

All my best!

~ Angela