Heather Greer's Blog, page 6

Main Character Monday: Interview with Anna Katherine O’Sullivan

On today’s Main Character Monday, we’re featuring an interview with Anna Katherine O’Sullivan from A Song of Deliverance by Donna Wichelman. A Song of Deliverance is her latest release and a historical romance published by Scrivenings Press. I’ll share more about Donna and the book after our interview.

But now, let’s welcome our guest, Anna Katherine O’Sullivan. Thank you for being with us today, Anna. Please tell us a little about yourself.

Born into the Irish system of landholding that favored the moneyed class, I had no dowry and no chance of marrying the man I loved. Seamus and I had known each other since we were children because my mother worked as a domestic for the O’Connor family, and we played together most days. We knew everything about each other—our foibles and faults, our strengths and virtues. It seemed only natural that childhood friendship would blossom into adult affections.

But when the day came, and we announced our plans to marry, Patrick and Ina O’Connor would not give their consent. Though Seamus tried to reason with them, they would not hear of it, threatening to disinherit him if he did not cut me out of his life. Though Seamus said it didn’t matter to him, I could not allow him to lose his inheritance. I knew he would resent me for it in the end. Heartbroken without parents to support me, I fled Ireland to tend to Uncle Liam’s house in Colorado and take on my deceased aunt’s sewing business.

It takes true love to put aside your wants for what is best for another person. Not an easy thing to do, at all. Tell me something about you that readers may find surprising?

I love sweets way too much, especially chocolates. It’s an indulgence that I’m way too fond of and would most likely resemble Eli of Bible fame if I never restrained it

I have to agree. Good chocolate is a test of my self-control too. What is your favorite book in the New Testament and why?

That would be Romans, particularly the eighth chapter, the twenty-eighth verse, which says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

You see, before I arrived in Georgetown, I had high hopes for a good life in America. My uncle had sent me a watercolor by post of the grand and glorious Colorado Rocky Mountains and promised a prosperous life in the flourishing mining community.

But when I arrived in Georgetown, my uncle didn’t meet me at the stagecoach, and the town was in an uproar over a mine disaster at the Singing Silver Mine where my uncle worked. The next twenty-four hours proved painstaking, waiting on the rescue team for news of the men trapped in the belly of the earth. A pastor’s wife, Mrs. Laurel Thomas, who I was later to call my best friend, tried to comfort me.

Then, the horrific happened. Nine of the fourteen men trapped hadn’t survived, including Uncle Liam. I wept, for now I was orphaned and destitute again. I stayed in my uncle’s cottage that night alone and despondent, with no one for my comfort.

Mrs. Thomas came by the cottage the following day to ask how I was fairing. I bitterly complained of God’s cruelty for the circumstances that had befallen me. How could God be so cruel to bring me here just to take away my only living relatives, leaving me alone with no way to earn a living? As far as I was concerned, it was a poor plan on God’s part, and I would have remained in Ireland if I had any inkling of what was to come.

In her practical wisdom, Mrs. Thomas unfolded her story—how she and Pastor Thomas had left behind all they’d known in Ohio to start a church in Georgetown. “Most of us make our plans; we think we’ve got everything under control. Then something gets tossed at us—something we didn’t expect, and we’re left to figure out what to do with a circumstance we would never have chosen for ourselves. That’s where God’s providential plan comes in,” she said. “But all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.”

It took months for me to understand what that meant for my life—months of waiting and watching and wondering. But by Christmas, it all came together, and what Mrs. Thomas had predicted, God had orchestrated in a harmonious chorus more lovely than I could have ever imagined, and I saw that she had been right all along.

I can’t imagine the depth of loss you felt after having already lost home, family, and love. I’m glad you had Mrs. Thomas. We all need a Mrs. Thomas in our lives at times. God called Gideon to lead his army. Gideon didn’t believe he could, but he trusted and did as God asked. Have you ever felt like you weren’t equipped to do what God asked you to do? What did you do?

After the initial shock of learning my uncle had died in the Singing Silver Mine disaster, I grieved not only for what had been lost but also for what I never had. I know that sounds strange, but it wasn’t my uncle I grieved since I had never really known him. But I grieved that I had come to America expecting to live a comfortable life and found an uncertain future waiting for me on the other side instead. If God had called me to Georgetown, I had no idea how to navigate this new world. I had to dig deep in my heart and soul to gather my faith, courage, and ingenuity to establish a life in a community where I didn’t know anyone and had no way of earning a living—or so I thought. But as the days and weeks unfolded, I realized God had brought me to Georgetown for just such a time as this, as Mordecai said to Esther in the book named after her. So, I lead the charge to help unify the community in an effort to help those who were hurting after the mine disaster. By doing so, I not only endeared myself to many, but we gave the town a fighting chance to overcome the calamity and gain prosperity again.

Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Is there one of these you find easier to accomplish? Is one harder?

I wish you could have known Miss Cecelia Richards, my formerly enslaved, God-fearing friend. She accumulated more wisdom than most in her eighty years of life. Even after enduring fifty years of bondage to white men, having her husband and children sold away from her, then finding freedom and earning enough money to invest in local mines, she said something that has stuck with me. In answer to why she hadn’t allowed bitterness to dictate her life, she said, “I don’t look down on anyone as if they don’t deserve a kindness. I reckon we all got shackles we need to get freed from to get by in this life.” Her love, humility, and charity toward others impressed me as something I wanted to emulate. I pray daily the Lord would make me into a woman after His own heart by showing me how to love and serve those who he brings into my life.

She sounds like a wise woman. I think I would’ve liked to meet her. If you could leave readers with one message, what would it be?

My story is more than a story about one poor Irish woman’s road from rags to riches. It’s about finding the faith and courage to persevere despite the most tragic circumstances and discovering God has never been further than a hair’s breadth away. As Cecelia said, we all have shackles we need to get freed from. We can only experience true freedom in Christ when we choose to trust God and lean not on our own understanding. We may make our plans, but God’s plans are infinitely greater than our own.

Thank you for taking time to answer these questions that give readers a peek into who you are on a serious level. Now, I’m going to let them get to know your author, Donna Wichelman a bit better.

Donna, if you could have any exotic animal as a pet, what would it be?

A cheetah. They’re sleek and fast and can be trained.

If you could travel through time, would you?

Since I’m a historical romance author and love history, traveling back in time would give me the ability to conduct research in real-time and scope out the stories about actual people and the places where they live. I could explore their perspective on events as they occurred and interview them in-depth about how they felt about their role in the circumstances that led to how events unfolded.

Sunrise or sunset?

Sunset—My husband and I met and married in California and occasionally used to sit on the beach as the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. Very romantic indeed!

Chocolate or Vanilla?

Definitely chocolate. I love anything chocolate, especially Rocher Ferrero Balls.

No electricity or no plumbing?

This is a tough one. Probably no electricity. I can always put on more coasts and sweaters if there’s no heat, but squatty potties are unbearable.

If your character had only three words to describe you, how would they do it?

Idealistic. Charitable. Empathetic.

I want to thank Donna for allowing this Interview with Anna Katherine O’Sullivan. I’ve enjoyed getting to know her a bit more and look forward to the rest of her story. I’m going to share more about where to find A Song of Deliverance, but first, a little more about Donna.

More About Donna

Weaving history and faith into stories of intrigue and redemption grew out of Donna’s love of travel, history, and literature as a young adult while attending an international college in Wales. She enjoys developing plots that show how God’s love abounds even in the profoundly difficult circumstances of our lives. Her stories reflect the hunger in all of us for love, forgiveness, and belonging in a world that often withholds second changes.

Donna received her master’s degree in mass communication/journalism from San Jose State University. Her short stories and articles have appeared in inspirational publications. She has two indie-published Christian romantic suspense novels in her Waldensian Series—Light Out of Darkness and Undaunted Valor. Her Gilded Age historical romance, A Song of Deliverance, just released on December 3, 2024.

Donna and her husband of forty years participate in ministry at their local church in Colorado. They love spending time with their grandchildren and bike, kayak, and travel whenever possible.

Social Media Links:

Website: www.donnawichelman.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DonnaWichelmanAuthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donna.wichelman

X (Formerly Twitter): www.x.com/DonnaWichelman

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/donna-wichelman

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/donna_wichelman

Purchase your copy of A Song of Deliverance

 

The post Main Character Monday: Interview with Anna Katherine O’Sullivan appeared first on Heather Greer.

Main Character Monday: Princess Glory Toppenbottom from Tatterhood

On this Main Character Monday interview I’m joined by Princess Glory Toppenbottom from Tatterhood. Tatterhood, author Dawn Ford’s newest book, releases Tuesday, January 28th from ScrivKids, an imprint of Scrivenings Press. This is the third in the Band of Unlikely Heroes series for middle grade readers, but don’t let that stop you. I recently read the first in the series and found it a lot of fun. And I haven’t been in middle grades for, well, for a while. Before we begin, I have to say, I’m loving these speculative genre interviews. These characters are so much fun to interview. You never know what’s going to happen next.

Without further ado, let’s jump into the interview. Princess Glory Toppenbottom, thank you for joining us. Will you, please, tell us a little about yourself

“Must I?” Glory glares are the author. Said author patiently nods her head. “Okay, fine. I’m fairy royalty, the daughter of Queen Stella Toppenbottom, rule of the Shining Land. I used to be the most beautiful creature in the Wilden Lands, the world I live in,” she glares at her author from beneath her tattered hood, “Until this one had an evil fiend named the Erlking mesmerize me, trick me, and then hex my beauty away.” Glory sighs loudly for effect. “Since then, I’ve been on a mission to get my beauty returned to me, no matter the cost.”

Wow. That sounds like you’ve been through a lot. I hope your quest is successful. Tell me something about you that readers may find surprising.

“Besides the fact that I’m a musical savant? I never wanted to be queen. Bending my will to serve a kingdom and caring for our citizens’ benefit does not suit me.”

If helping others isn’t appealing to you, what drives Princess Glory Toppenbottom into action?

 “Besides my own desires? I, as a fairy, cannot survive without my beauty. Not only is the hex making me go mad, it just isn’t done—hexing fairies. Who does the Erlking think he is? I’m much more clever than he. Just you wait and see.”

I know you’ve said the needs of others doesn’t motivate you, but if you could solve one world problem, which one would you solve?

“Uh, duh. Getting my fairy beauty back. Not only would it benefit me, but it would allow others to adore me as they did before. Beauty does make the world go round after all.”

That is a unique outlook on life. You’ve mentioned your quest to beat the Erlking and get your beauty back. Where I’m from, those who practice the Christian faith are called to love their enemies. How do you think your world would be different if people loved their enemies?

“Ew, seriously? Love that horrid troll princess? Only if she’ll use my imperial potion to transform her warts. Then I’ll consider it.”

A troll princess? I didn’t expect that. Sounds like you have more than one enemy to deal with. Good to know. There is a verse from the writings of my faith that says, ”Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.”– Do you think a person practicing patience can have the power to change the powers that be?

“Patience is key in getting things done, I agree. It is what has allowed me the ability to scheme. I’m a fan of it.”

Um. Well, I’m glad you see patience as a virtue. Not sure that was the intent of the verse, but whatever. Oh, you have to go finish your story? Then, you’ll come back to speak with us some more? Sounds great.

Princess Glory Toppenbottom has returned to finish her interview with us. Her story has completed, and Glory has learned a bit about what kind of damage her selfish schemes can cause. Princess, is there an event, person, or belief that has shaped who you are more than any other?

 “Watching my sister’s face when she realized what I’d done, and witnessing the Erlking punish my mother for my misdeeds, was my undoing. Regaining my beauty was no longer important. People and their trust are more important. I see that now.”

So, now, if you could leave readers with one message, what would it be?

“Lies, anger, and selfish motivations only lead to your own downfall, and possibly the downfall of others you love. It’s not worth it.”

That is a very important message for all of us. Thank you for sharing it. I know it is never easy to share lessons we learn from our biggest mistakes. Before you go, I’d like to ask you a few just for fun questions. If you could buy one thing, without worrying about the cost, what would you buy?

“A potion to restore me to my original fairy beauty. It was unsurpassed, after all.”

What is one thing that is always on your grocery shopping list?

“Sweetsuckle flowers. They’re delicious.”

Apples or Pears? “Both in a honeyed sauce.”

Indoors or Outside? “Outside in the sun.”

Reading or Writing? “Playing music.”

And one final question before we tell readers more about Dawn Ford and your story, Tatterhood. If you could describe Dawn Ford in just three words, what would they be?

 “Heinous for taking me on such a vile journey. I’d place her in magicuffs and leave her in a dank dungeon for creating such an awful storyline for me. She needs counseling.”

I guess all it takes is one word then. Thank you for joining us today Princess Glory. It’s been a great interview, and I know readers are now ready to hear more about your story and the author who brought you to life.

MORE ABOUT DAWN

Winner of the 2016 ACFW Genesis Award and finalist in the 2018 Grace Award and the 2020 Great Expectations Contest, Dawn has been recognized for her published and non-published works. Her flash fiction stories have been published in Havok magazine under both her real name and pen name, Jo Wonderly. Her debut novel, Knee-high Lies, was published in 2017.

As a child, Dawn often had her head in the clouds creating scenes and stories for anything and everything she came across. She believed there was magic everywhere, a sentiment she has never outgrown. Nature inspires her, and her love for the underdog and the unlikely hero colors much of what she writes.

Dawn adores anything Steampunk, is often distracted by shiny, pretty things, and her obsession with purses and shoes borders on hoarding. Dawn lives in Iowa and helps her husband run their foodservice and catering business out of Omaha, Nebraska. When not reading, writing, or catering, Dawn loves babysitting her grandchildren, is parent to Snickers the Wonder Beagle, and can usually be caught daydreaming.

You can learn more about Dawn Ford at her website: https://dawnfordauthor.com

MORE ABOUT TATTERHOOD

Troll Princess Horra Fyd and young druid Rowan team up to reverse the evil Erlking’s spells and save the creatures across the Wilden Lands. However, Fairy Princess Glory Toppenbottom is still a thorn in Horra’s side. After Horra and Glory have a heated fight, Glory sneaks out of the castle. She is bent on finding the Erlking to reverse the hex he cast on her. This creates a political disaster when the Glory’s sister announces she’s coming to retrieve Glory.

Angered by Horra’s treatment of a royal guest, King Fyd proclaims Horra to be Queen Bearer. She becomes the ad hoc ruler, freeing her father from the scandal. Shocked, Horra assents. Her first move is to find the missing fairy princess before it becomes an interkingdom war. They form a search party and leave.

The Erlking stalks their every move. When the only choice points them toward the Riven, a cursed hidden land, they don’t hesitate. They find Glory is already there, but are immediately separated. The trio find the Riven is nothing like anyone imagined. Will they survive the Erlking’s magical traps, or will they, like everyone else, perish within its borders?

FREE PREVIEW OF FIRST THREE CHAPTERS

The first three chapters of Tatterhood are available for you to read for free. Read the free chapters.

SAVE $1 OFF THE REGULAR EBOOK PRICE

Today only, you can save $1 off the regular ebook price during the pre-order sale of Tatterhood.

The post Main Character Monday: Princess Glory Toppenbottom from Tatterhood appeared first on Heather Greer.

The Icing on the Cake Review: First Line Friday

The Icing on the Cake Review: First Line Friday

Welcome to my The Icing on the Cake review on this First Line Friday. First, the details. The Icing on the Cake is a contemporary Christian romance by author Janice Thompson and published by Revell. The story is 307 pages, and it is an easy read. I read it in only a couple of days with many interruptions. As always, there is a link to the book after my review.

The Icing on the Cake First Line:

“I’ve never understood that expression about how you can have your cake and eat it too.” – Isn’t that a wonderful first line? Insight into the character and theme, all while tempting you with the idea of something sweet.

My The Icing on the Cake Review:

I picked this book up because, well, frankly because cake is in the title and the back blurb mentioned a bakery. I’d never read anything by Janice Thompson before. It did give me a little concern that this is book two in the Weddings by Design series, but that worry quickly vanished. I don’t know how much overlap there is in each of the books, but a reader can enjoy this one completely without having read the first book.

I immediately found flavor ideas I’d love to use in baking videos. Lemon cake with raspberry filling and frosting got my attention on the first page, even over German chocolate. And I’m a chocolate kind of girl. As a bonus, there is a recipe in the back of the book. Not for lemon cake, but for Italian Cream Cake which becomes a bigger deal than sticky buns throughout the course of the story. And believe me, sticky buns plays a big part.

The romance is kind of opposites attract or more-than-meets-the-eye if that’s a thing. I love the look beyond what people see, look beyond the past, see the person as they are now kind of stories. And this one delivers. I love Armando. He’s not the perfect girl for Scarlet, at least not on paper. I love that he sees Scarlet and loves her despite her struggle to love herself.

And boy does she struggle. Family expectations, being what everyone needs her to be even at a detriment to herself, and her dislike of her physical appearance all hound Scarlet. One of the major issues for her that comes up early in the book is her weight. It’s almost distracting it comes up so frequently, but as anyone who has struggled with weight knows, that’s life with a weight issue. It’s that constant nagging in the back of your mind every time you consider what to eat or pass on. Scarlet has a lot of realization and growth that needs to take place throughout the story, and I’m happy the author saw fit to deal with each issue.

This story is a fun reminder to see yourself and others the way God sees them. And it doesn’t happen only with the main characters. Everyone seems to need this lesson. But it’s not heavy-handed at all. The cake of the story is frosted with lovable characters, a wonderful town, and more than a sprinkle of humor. It’s the perfect blend of flavors, and it makes The Icing on the Cake the great read it is.

I give this story a solid four stars. I hope you’ll check it out, because I know you’ll enjoy it.

Get your copy of The Icing on the Cake.

The post The Icing on the Cake Review: First Line Friday appeared first on Heather Greer.

Main Character Monday Interview: Freefalling

Main Character Monday Interview with Serenity from Freefalling

Welcome to this week’s Main Character Monday interview. Today I have the pleasure of introducing Serenity from Freefalling, the newest release from author J. L. Burrows. Serenity, let’s start off getting to know you. Why don’t you tell us a little about yourself

I could tell you what Providence Providential allows me to say. I’m blessed to be a citizen under the dome serving my years of giving back as a teacher before entering the workforce they’ve assigned me. I might even tell you, I’m excited to soon meet the person I’m assigned to partner with. Even writing those words tastes bad on the back of my tongue. But after my recent experiences, with so much hanging in the balance, I frankly don’t care what Providence Providential allows me to say. Drones need to be defied. The red eye needs to be blinded. The Commander needs to be dethroned. Because Providence Providential is using its people as its first line of defence for its lies. We aren’t committed to acceptance and understanding or even community. It’s simple. We are committing to a form of erasing when we allow even one citizen to be reconditioned–chemically brain washed.

That seems a little extreme. What makes you believe your government is doing something so heinous?

Look at the students when they return. Oh. Is it uncomfortable to see the results of forcibly taking one’s fight away?

If it spoils in the light, if we shy away from it, then it is not good. And we should destroy what is not good.

They erased my entire family for one “reason” or another. I stand alone under the dome with no one to call my own. Maybe that’s what made the difference to me. Maybe it was Grandfather’s quiet time before bed each night, as he raised me in my mother’s absence. But I know now, after Mother’s secret message hidden in Shea’s programming, that my grandfather was right. Her command to search for the truth, to trust no one–it was like my world pivoted on its axis, and suddenly the shackles of the dome’s lies fell away. I could see the lack of truth. And now, I have to find it.

Wow. I can’t imagine a world like the one you live in. It sounds like your life has really opened up with some difficult truths and choices. You’ve given us great insight into what you’re dealing with and why, but let’s get personal. What is one thing about you that readers may find surprising?

I never wanted to be a hero.

Okay. Maybe you figured that out.

Something even more surprising. I’m terrified.

What is going to happen next? My story is just beginning. This choice to leave everything I know is both an absolutely right choice, but also the scariest, most death-defying thing I’ve ever done. How does one go from falling in line, keeping their head down, to facing an enemy a million times more cunning and lethal? What I’m facing is insanity. In fact, if I think too long about it, I want to curl into a ball and cry. But that won’t take me to the end of what I’ve started.

So, I have to take this next step and see where it will take me. Close my eyes and leap.

I will surely die. That’s the truth of it. The Commander or Providence Providential reconditions anyone who dares to question them.

I’ve probably only delayed my execution.

But the truths I’ve found to this point, the weaponized insect army, the whisper of truth from Mack–even thinking about his name makes my heart flip flop. There are so many things I’ve uncovered that I realize this thing I’ve fallen into is worth sacrificing my life. Someone has to do it.

Losing an entire family like I have makes it crystal clear to me that nothing will stop the losses until someone dares to stand.

What drives you to action?

Okay, so I answered that in the previous answer.

“You should answer every question, Serenity. It’s an interview–an honor.” Shea’s voice warns in my ear.

“Shea, I’m not, not answering it. I’ve already included it in my previous answer.”

“Think of your students. Would you take a previous answer for a number two or three on the page when it is not number one?” Shea’s tone is shifting to a touch of chastisement.

“Shea, you, in fact, are ruining the interview with your interruptions. They are here to hear from me, not you. If you would just let me continue, please.” Exasperation fills my voice.

I dearly love Shea, but AI, no matter how good, really struggles to move from the literal to read instead the nuance of a scenario. I’m sincerely sorry for her interruptions.

To calm Shea down—

“I need no calming.” Shea’s voice intrudes again.

I’ll just keep going and answer this question before she short circuits.

“I have never short-circuited in my life.”

“You are not alive.”

“How rude. I’ll not help you again during your interview that you and you alone understand the nuance regarding.”

Excellent. And to answer your question, love drives me to action. I fight for the people I love, but I also fight for the people others love. No one should have to see their family disappear. Or watch their students taken over a slight infraction. No one should hold all the power and disregard the needs of the people.

Providence Providential has gone too far, taken their power and used it for individual gain. It’s time we the citizens stop them.

Wow. How about warning a girl next time? I had no idea you had an AI, um, friend with you on the interview. I could have prepared some questions for Shea. But since I didn’t know and it seems you’ve got Shea under control, we’ll continue. I agree that love can be a great motivator. I have a feeling I know the answer to this next question, but I’ll ask it anyway. If you could solve one world problem, which one would you solve?

Only one. I would have everyone know the Truth grandfather spoke of. Because so many sit in a web of lies that thicken and choke their minds.

That was not what I expected. So, I’m glad I asked. I imagine if everyone knew the Truth, a lot of other problems would change too.Where I’m from, many know about two sisters named Mary and Matha. Mary is very relational in her faith. Martha has a boots on the ground kind of faith.  Would you consider yourself more a Mary, spending time with the one you believe in or a Martha, out there putting your faith into practice

I can’t even imagine how wonderful it must be to have a sister. It’s strange to imagine them being so different, and this word, faith, makes no sense to me.

That said, my recent actions indicate I’m a boots on the ground kind of person. Right now, my belief in a truth just outside of our current culture has me risking everything, so I’m definitely putting what I think into practice. So I must be a Martha.

From what you’ve already shared with us, I’d have to agree. You seem very action oriented.There is a verse from the writings of my faith that says, ”Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” James 1:27 – Do you think living out this verse would make a difference in your world? How?

Such strange words. They remind me of my grandfather’s poetry. However, visiting orphans and widows when they are hurting and suffering should be the job of a healthy and working society.

Now that you mention it, I realize that Providence Providential sweeps these members of our society away. I don’t know where they go, or what they do with them. One day they are there and the next gone. It makes my heart hurt to wonder what is actually happening. Let it be another reason we fight the dome.

“What about the other part of her writing? You only answered the first part of the question, Serenity.” Shea’s tone was much kinder now.

“Thank you, Shea.”

I’m uncertain what you mean by unspotted by the world. I think this writing, the book that it comes from, might be the exact item I’m searching for. It sounds like it holds the truth I so desperately seek. And the idea of remaining unspotted hits me as true and necessary. It reminds me of what the Academy tells the students and teachers versus what is actually going on. Maybe it refers to the deceit. Maybe it is referring to the things I’ve learned from Mack. Either way, I believe it is important to remain how your writing says, “unspotted from the world.”

“Excellent answer, Serenity. I am certain you are right.”

“It doesn’t seem like a right or wrong answer, Shea.”

“Nevertheless, you answered the question fully, and that makes your answer correct.”

If only life were that simple. “Thank you, Shea.”

With Shae, this Mack person you’ve mentioned a couple of times, your grandfather, and the government all speaking into your life, is there one of them or an event or belief that has shaped who you are more than any other?

The teachings of my grandfather, losing my family one by one, and witnessing the taking of my two students for reconditioning.

I can see why each of those would be life-changing for you. You’ve shared so much with us about your world and the choices you’re facing. I have just one more serious question for you. If you could leave readers with one message, what would it be?

Search for the truth. It will set you free.

“That’s what your mother said in your message. You should answer the question for yourself.” Shea, my constant AI companion, didn’t know when to just let me live my life.

Others set in place everything we carry in our hearts, the big lessons and takeaways. Those messages that take on life and grow inside of us often come from outside, a parent, grandparent, or the small whisper in one’s heart. But I do not believe that we come to great wisdom or discernment. We don’t learn lessons or find our life’s message alone or through our own devices. So, yes, this is my mother’s message to me, but it is a good message. A message others must know and carry in their own lives.

“I see. I shall think on that.” Shea grew silent

Now, I’d like to let readers get to know you from some of the less impactful things you enjoy. If you could buy one thing, without worrying about the cost, what would you buy?

A lifetime supply of coffee. My recent choice to leave the protection of the dome has limited my access to the comforts of the dome. I don’t regret my decision. But I miss coffee. Oh, and bagels. Frankly, a home. I digress.

What is one thing that is always on your grocery shopping list?

Oh, no. I’ve answered a question with a previous question. Rather than upset Shea.

“I do not get upset. I’m level-headed. Always. It’s in my programming.”

I’ll just answer with coffee. I realize now that maybe you wanted me to list something much larger and possibly inaccessible. There is a segment of housing that is for those in politics. Another teacher, Jin, lives there, and I passed his home at one point. I would like to change my previous answer to a home like Jin’s and use the last answer here.

“You can’t just rearrange their questions like that.” Shea sounded quite offended.

“I’m not rearranging, just correcting my mistake.”

“I see. That is understandable.” Shea said.

Answer the following with whatever jumps out at you first. Apples or Pears? No idea what these are.

Indoors or Outside? Outside

Reading or Writing? Reading

And finally, if you had to describe J. L. Burrows in only three words, which words would you choose?

Terrifying, loving, wise.

Thank you for joining me today, Serenity. And you too, Shea. It was great meeting you both, and I look forward to learning more about you in Freefalling. But before I do that, I want to let our readers know a bit more about your story, J. L. Burrows, and where to find Freefalling.

FREEFALLING BLURB:

Under the Dome, peace reigns … forcefully.

One hundred and eighty years in the future, the U.S. government eradicates warfare and violence.

Serenity should feel safe, but she doesn’t.

Serenity Knowles knows two things for certain. Finishing her government assigned community service as a teacher is mandatory in order to start her adult life. And stopping those in power from reconditioning two of her favorite students will ruin her chances at a future and a life.

Everything she thought she once knew to be true, suddenly is now in question after her typically peaceful girls fight in plain view of everyone at school. The Federal Bureau of Acceptance storms in and collects them both for reconditioning—chemical brain washing. With no one to help, Serenity is driven into a wild rescue and escape plan. The girls can’t be made into shadow children, brainwashed and limited to a menial future.

All that stands between the overreaching government and her girls is Serenity’s budding faith, a furry beast companion, her modified illegal AI, and a ragtag group of men and women set against the use of cutting edge technology and genetically modified bio-weapons on citizens under the Dome. If any of them get caught, they will be reconditioned. If they don’t move fast enough, the girls will be lost. If she doesn’t become a hero, any hope of a real future will be forfeit.

In her transformation from a teacher with a broken family to a radical defector leading a team of rebels, Sere discovers America’s deadliest threat—its own government.

Connecting with J. L. Burrows:

Jennifer Burrows has a message in her heart about God’s love, and she’s shared that when she was a musician in her father’s church, as a missionary to underprivileged children in a third world country, and as a wife who stood by her husband through terminal brain cancer that God miraculously healed.

Now, she’s sharing God’s powerful love through the art of fiction, pouring herself into edifying and helping other writers, and teaching others how to use faith in the face of adversity. Jennifer teaches in the greater Nashville area where she lives with her husband and their two children. Get to know Jennifer better at jlburrows.com, or connect with her on social media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferlynnburrows

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferlynnburrows

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlburrowsauthor

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jenniferlynnburrows/freefalling-book-1-in-the-reconditioned-series/ (This is the board for FreeFalling and it includes the inspiration photos for the world and the key characters in the story.)

Website: www.jlburrows.com

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/freefalling-the-reconditioned-book-1-by-j-l-burrows

GET YOUR COPY OF FREEFALLING

 

The post Main Character Monday Interview: Freefalling appeared first on Heather Greer.

A Year of Flowers Review: On Tour with Celebrate Lit

A Year of Flowers Review

About the Book

Book: A Year of Flowers

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release date: November 18, 2024

In this collection of four heartfelt novellas, three former friends have found success in the floral industry, but happiness–and love–remain elusive.

In An Apology in Bloom, wedding florist Jaime Harper is on a meteoric rise, working for an event company led by a successful and way-too-handsome boss. When a letter arrives from her past mentor with an offer too good to pass up, will she stay or head back to her hometown?

In A Bouquet of Dreams, Claire Murphy has always dreamed of owning a flower shop, and when her employers hint at retirement, she believes her moment has arrived. But first she must confront her past–and the man who caused her to flee her hometown years ago.

In A Field of Beauty, Tessa Anderson has found an acre of farmland to start her flower farm and forget the past. She’s grateful for the help of two men–her boyfriend, Tyler, and a quiet soil specialist named Dawson. But as the farm finally starts to bloom, Tessa will discover something that challenges everything she’s built.

In A Future in Blossom, Jaime, Claire, and Tessa return to their hometown, finally ready to face each other and their beloved mentor, flower shop owner Rose Reid. As they unite to pull off an extraordinary wedding, amid the flurry of preparations they just may find their way to forgiveness.

 

Click here to get your copy!

MY A YEAR OF FLOWERS REVIEW:
First, I love the premise of this novella collection. Four novellas tied together through three women who are connected through their love of flowers, the flower shop they were mentored in during high school, and their perceptions of one horrible event. I enjoyed reading of where life after that event had taken each woman and how they dealt (or didn’t) deal with the situation. Then, bringing them together in the fourth and final novella provided the perfect ending to their journey.

While I enjoyed An Apology in Bloom, I think my favorite of the four novellas was A Field of Beauty. My least favorite was A Bouquet of Dreams. Usually, I wouldn’t even mention that, but I do now because of the reason it was my least favorite. When I got to the final novella and read each woman’s reason for and way they left their mentor, I felt some of their reactions were really over-the-top. Leaving the area? I can see it. Doing it the way some of them did? It didn’t really seem as believable to me. I can overlook that though because I know there have to be people out there who might react that way. I don’t know any, but I’m sure they exist. Reasons and methods aside, I enjoyed the characters. They were likable and relatable. I especially liked the hero in each story. The author did a great job of letting us really get to know each one, and I’d be happy to spend the day chatting about flowers with each one. Except Claire. The author still did a great job showing her character, but I had a hard time finding anything to like about her. She was so clueless to her faults and unlikeable that I struggled getting through her story. Again, the author did a great job presenting her clearly, Claire and I just didn’t mesh well.

While the main characters were estranged from each other, the author does a great job allowing the reader to feel their past connection. It isn’t hard to see the impact their mentor and their time together had on each one. It’s present in every decision they make and in who they have become. This provides the base we need as all four reunite for the final novella.

The author also did an amazing job describing flowers, growing, and the business of flower arranging. Each character’s passion for the business came through clearly and with enough detail to make the reader excited about it as well. The descriptions were detailed but not overwhelming and not detracting from the story. In fact, they made the story that much richer. As a reader, I could picture and almost smell each of the flowers as they were discussed.

All in all, this was an enjoyable novella collection. I give it four stars.

 

About the Author

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a Christy finalist, a Carol and Selah winner, a two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, and the Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestselling author of more than forty books. Her genres include contemporary and historical romances, Amish romance, and women’s fiction. She and her husband live in a small town in California, where everyone knows everyone else, knows what they are doing and why. Most friends act a little nervous around Suzanne because they usually wind up in one of her novels. She has four grown children and enough grandchildren to keep her young.

More from Suzanne

A Year of Flowers: Friendships in Full Bloom

If you’ve ever tended to a garden, you know that flowers and friendships have a lot in common—they both need a bit of love, attention, and sometimes, a good pruning. That’s the heart of my novella collection called A Year of Flowers, stories of three teenage girls who bonded over bouquets and blossomed into best friends under the guidance of Rose, the wise and wonderful flower shop owner.

But life, much like a garden, doesn’t always go according to plan. On one sweltering August day, something dreadful happens in the flower shop, and the girls, who once shared everything, suddenly vanish from each other’s lives.

Seven years later, we find out where each girl, now a young woman, has gone. Their love for flowers is still in full bloom. Jaime’s taken her talent to the big city, working as a floral artist for a high-end event agency in NYC. She’s turning heads with her extravagant designs, but something’s missing—maybe it’s the simple joy she once found in that small-town flower shop.

Claire has run off to Savannah, Georgia, where she’s knee-deep in blooms, working in a flower shop with dreams of running the place one day. She’s got her eye on the prize, but she’s also discovering that you can’t outrun the past, no matter how far you go.

Then there’s Tessa, who’s found solace in the soil of Asheville, NC, where she’s started a flower farm. It’s a peaceful life, but even in the quiet of the mountains, memories of that summer day haunt her like the mist that rolls over the hills.

As each story unfolds, we see that, like flowers, friendships need TLC. They can wilt easily without care and attention. And sometimes, a good pruning is necessary, to help it grow stronger.

In the final novella, the three young women are drawn back to where it all began—the flower shop, and to Rose. It’s time to dig up the past, clear out the weeds, and see if their friendship can bloom again. After all, just because a garden has been neglected doesn’t mean it can’t be revived with a little care and attention.

So, if you’re a fan of flowers, friendships, or happy endings, get a copy of A Year of Flowers. It’s a reminder that with the right care, both flowers and friendships can flourish, no matter how long they’ve been left untended.

Blog Stops

Vicky Sluiter, January 11

lakesidelivingsite, January 11

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 12

Book Looks by Lisa, January 12

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 13

Simple Harvest Reads, January 13 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

She Lives to Read, January 14

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 15

For Him and My Family, January 15

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 16

By the Book, January 17

Wishful Endings, January 17

Texas Book-aholic, January 18

Pause for Tales, January 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 19

Cover Lover Book Review, January 20

Lighthouse Academy, January 20

The Avid Reader, January 21

Stories By Gina, January 22 (Author Interview)

Jeanette’s Thoughts , January 23

Blossoms and Blessings, January 23

Batya’s Bits, January 24

Holly’s Book Corner, January 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54129

The post A Year of Flowers Review: On Tour with Celebrate Lit appeared first on Heather Greer.

The Breakup Project: First Line Friday Review

Welcome to my First Line Friday Review of The Breakup Project by Carolyn Miller. This is book one of six in the Original Six Hockey Romance series and is available in eBook, paperback, and hardback forms. I was able to complete this contemporary romance in just a couple days. I asked readers of my newsletter to recommend a book for me to read in 2025, and this was the first one mentioned. Having seen this author in various groups on social media, I was familiar with her but had never read one of her books. Now that we have the particulars taken care of, let’s look at the first line.

The Breakup Project First Line:

“Because it is a truth, that should be universally acknowledged, that the sister of a hockey player will forever have hockey in her future.”

The Breakup Project Review:

Don’t let not being a hockey fan deter you from this book. I’m not a fan of the sport, but it didn’t hinder my ability to enjoy this story. In fact, I enjoyed this one enough that I’m sure I’ll be reading the others in the series as well.

First, I love the sibling’s best friend to more trope. This one is very well done. There were several scenes that gave me all the feels. The slow progression of friendship to more in the minds of both characters was great.

The characters were all likable and recognizable. Even coming from the world of professional sports, they were down-to-earth, with few exceptions. I think my favorite was the male hero. He’s everything a book hero should be, and no, that doesn’t mean perfect. And I loved the grandma in the story! She’s the perfect addition to the cast of characters. Who doesn’t love a meddling but completely lovable grandma? Spunky, sassy, and smart. Everyone needs a grandma like her in their corner.

The only downside (and it is a small thing really) was that last few chapters of the book felt a little anticlimactic. Elements of the story did need wrapped up, I only wish some of the loose ends had been worked out before that pivotal scene that was built up to through the whole story took place. That scene created the perfect, satisfied sigh moment that would’ve been a great ending note. But, like I said, this was a small matter in light of the wonderful story the author created.

The Breakup Project Review Rating:

I give this one four stars are know I’ll be revisiting this hockey loving world soon.

Get your copy of The Breakup Project

The post The Breakup Project: First Line Friday Review appeared first on Heather Greer.

Meet the Author Monday: Delores Topliff

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Delores Topliff on this week’s Meet the Author Monday interview. After meeting Delores at a writing conference, I can say with complete sincerity, if you ever have the opportunity to get to know her, you should take it.

Before we get into the tough questions (like I ever ask tough questions!), let’s get to know a little more about Delores.

I grew up in Washington state but married a Canadian. So, I  enjoy dual citizenship. I teach university and travel. I wrote prizewinning children’s books before my historic novels and my memoir-travelogue of many trips to Israel, A Traveling Grandma’s Guide to Israel: Adventures, Wit, and Wisdom. I love my two doctor sons and five grandchildren. And I divide my year between a Minnesota farm and the gentler climate and people of Northeastern Mississippi. You can find me at delorestopliff.com and at https://www.facebook.com/DETopliff

Wow. And I know this is only scratching the surface of the author who is Delores Topliff. You mentioned writing historic novels. One of these is Wilderness Wife, which our readers can find out more about at the end of this interview. I’m curious. What inspired you to write Wilderness Wife?

Growing up as a kid in the shadow of Fort Vancouver, Washington, the end of the Oregon Trail, we knew lots about its founder, Dr. John McLoughlin, but the Lord inspired me to research his wife, Marguerite Wadin MacKay McLoughlin. I found solid gold and wrote Wilderness Wife. Despite early abandonment leaving her the single mom of four children, Marguerite embraced courage and fulfilled a key role in shaping North American History.

After enjoying this book, one reader said, “I love Wilderness Wife. The heroine is such a strong, compassionate, and resilient woman in a time and climate that was hard. Beautiful story.

Beauty amid harsh times. That makes for a great story. And speaking of story, what can readers expect when they open up a story by Delores Topliff?

I’ve taught university courses for many years, mostly English, History, and World Geography. I’ve written or rewritten many courses. One adult student came up to me after a class and said, “You don’t just teach us history and events. You teach us to think.” I hope that’s true. Besides being reasonably informed and entertained, I’d love for my readers also to engage with thoughtful story and life questions that lead them to finding more answers for themselves.

That is a worthy goal. It sounds like you’ve been a great teacher in classes, and I’m sure you can’t help carrying that over to the written page. Being a teacher has its benefits, but so does being an author. What is the biggest blessing you’ve received as an author?

Imagine my shock in November when I got an email from a northern Michigan reader saying, “My mom and sister and I are 4th and 5th generation direct descendants of Marguerite. We love your book and wonder if you’re related to us.”

(Not that I know of, but I’d love that.)

We eonnected online and they joined our November ACFW Book Club discussion of Wilderness Wife via Zoom. Marguerite’s relatives are encouraging me to write the sequel to her inspiring life. I’m seriously considering that. We may meet in Ontario, Canada next July. I’m thrilled that so many fine qualities I admire in Marguerite are alive and visible in her descendants. I see again that as life choices are made and seeds planted, they produce an ongoing harvest that blesses future generations.

So amazing. I can’t imagine how exciting that must have been for you. You’ve brought some true history into your fictional story, and I think that’s wonderful. But what about in what you read? What is the latest nonfiction (not including the Bible) that you’ve read

This September I visited friends in Scotland who are great readers. When it was time for my flight home when I had nothing to read, they gave me Just A Little Run Around The World by Rosie Swale Pope–great choice. It’s the account of a British widow who honored her husband by literally running around the world in five years. I enjoyed it and learned so much, one day soon I’ll read it again.

I have never read that one, but it sounds like an inspiring story. Before we share about Wilderness Wife with our readers, I have one last question. Do you prefer physical books, eBooks, or audiobooks?

There’s something wonderful about holding a book in my hands. And I love libraries—even the smell and physical appearance of books. When my sons were young and I brought them to libraries, one of their favorite spots. They happily said, “We’re going to the book cave!”

I have to agree. And maybe our libraries would benefit from being renamed “book caves”. I think it adds a little mystery. I want to thank Delores Topliff for joining me on this Meet the Author Monday interview. Before we dive into her book, here’s where you can find out more about Delores.

Visit her website delorestopliff.com

Connect on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DETopliff

Sign up for her monthly newsletter – https://mailchi.mp/919a77d66e15/newsletter-sign-up

More About Wilderness Wife

Marguerite Wadin MacKay believes her 17-year marriage to explorer Alex MacKay is strong—until his sudden fame destroys it. When he returns from his 1793 cross-Canada expedition, he announces their frontier marriage is void in Montreal where he will now go to find a society wife—not one with native blood. Taking their son with him, MacKay sends Marguerite and their three daughters to a remote trading post where she lived as a child. Deeply shamed, she arrives in time to assist young Doctor John McLoughlin, a Hudson’s Bay Trading Company employee, with a medical emergency. He’s impressed with her fine character and woodland and medical lore.

As their friendship deepens, when McLoughlin declares his love, she dissuades him from a match harmful to his career. She’s mixed blood and nine years older. But he will have no one else.

After abandonment, can a woman love again and fulfill a key role in North American History?

Purchase your copy of Wilderness Wife

 

The post Meet the Author Monday: Delores Topliff appeared first on Heather Greer.

12 Days of Mandy Reno: First Line Friday Review

Welcome to my First Line Friday review of 12 Days of Mandy Reno by Regina Rudd Merrick. Yes, I know, I’m a few days late, but since Hallmark is still showing Christmas movies, I can still review a Christmas book.

First things first. This is not the first in the Renovations series by Regina Rudd Merrick and published by Scrivenings Press, but that’s okay. You don’t have to have read any of the others to follow what’s happening in this one. I know because it’s my first one in this series.  Now, on to the review.

First Line: “The festive mug crashing to the vintage black-and-white tiled floor of the Clementville Café was the last straw.”

12 Days of Mandy Reno Review: I’ve read books and watched many Christmas movies that use “The 12 Days of Christmas” to drive their plot. Most take a very literal view of the many gifts true love gives. This author uses a little imagination to make the gifts fresh and still pay homage to the original lyrics. And in this case, Mandy Reno’s true love isn’t giving her the gifts. In fact, she doesn’t have anyone that comes close to qualifying as her true love. Truth is, she’s lost her Christmas spirit. I love that her brother’s friend from their school years sees her struggle and wants nothing more than to see her smile for the holidays. Hence the plan.

Clay’s just being a friend. At least that’s how his secret giving begins. It’s fun watching his feelings go from friend’s sibling to friend to wanting more through his secret quest to bring Mandy joy. And with all the time Mandy is spending around Clay, her feelings grow stronger too. The author did a great job creating that slow growing and still exciting realization of changing feelings. She’s also done a great job of planting the seeds of doubt to keep pages turning until the end. Will she accept his love when the time to reveal himself arrives or are his feelings completely misplaced? Will the revealing of her gift-giver bring disappointment when Mandy comes to realize it may not be the one she wants for her true love?

With small town life perfectly portrayed, right down to everyone knowing everyone’s business in the most loving way, the author has created a story worthy of a Hallmark Christmas movie. It’s a sweet, easy, fun read that’s perfect to begin (or end) your holiday reading. I give it five stars.

Get your copy of 12 Days of Mandy Reno.

The post 12 Days of Mandy Reno: First Line Friday Review appeared first on Heather Greer.

Show Me Betrayal Review: First Line Friday

Welcome to a Show Me Betrayal review on this First Line Friday.

First, the details. Show Me Betrayal is a Dual Time Mystery. It is the first in the Show Me Mysteries by Ellen E. Withers. Published by Scrivenings Press, the book is available in eBook and paperback formats. An Amazon link is at the end of my review. It is also available with your Kindle Unlimited subscription.

As an added bonus, Scrivenings Press is holding their annual Black Friday eBook Sale from November 27th through December 3rd. This book, along with the second in the series and almost all of the Scrivenings Press catalogue of books, will be available during the sale for 99¢ per eBook. This sale is a great way to fill up some virtual stockings this Christmas or even grab a few for yourself to read on cold winter nights.

You can find links to every book in the sale here: Black Friday Ebook Sales Links

Now for the first line of Show Me Betrayal: “Liesl raced across the porch steps of the grand Victorian dwelling, through the house, and up the stairs.”

My Show Me Betrayal Review:

I don’t usually read mystery or suspense stories because I don’t like unsettling things. However, I purchased this book for my grandson who reads adult mysteries regularly. I didn’t want to pass it on without doing my due diligence and reading it first. Being Christian fiction, I knew there wouldn’t be gore, language, or sexual content. But I still wanted to see how the details of the crimes were handled before giving it to a preteen.

I’m so glad I did. Not because I found anything concerning, but because I throughly enjoyed the story. First, the setting. Mexico, Missouri is a town I didn’t know existed until this book, but if it is anything like the author describes it, the place sounds charming, fictional murder aside. And the description of the Victorian house perfectly captures the equal parts charm and creepiness that often reside in Victorian homes. I’ve always thought they must keep the best secrets. The one in this book certainly does.

I also enjoyed the characters. Liesl, Kurt, and Nicole are friends that grew up together. They’re tied together with all the love, camaraderie, shared experiences, and even hard times between them that often accompany small-town friendships. And though theirs takes a totally different path, the friendships in the historical thread of the book are just as realistic and relatable.

And the historical portion of the story is well done too. References to common events and activities of the time are true to the period. And even though some of them may be foreign to me, not having lived in that time period, they were written in an easily understood and relatable manner. Teenagers are teenagers in every time period.

As for the mystery itself, I won’t go into details since the last thing I suspect a mystery reader wants is spoilers. What I will say is the little glimpses the author gives into the mind of a killer are well-done. They really make the reader feel how unhinged the villain truly is. She also balances giving hints to the identity of the murderer with believable alternatives. You may think you’ve got it figured out, but you won’t know for sure until the big reveal.

I may not typically go for mysteries, but I’ll definitely be checking out book two in the series. I give Show Me Betrayal five stars.

Purchase Show Me Betrayal

The post Show Me Betrayal Review: First Line Friday appeared first on Heather Greer.

A Gingerbread House Review: First Line Friday

A Gingerbread House Review

Welcome to this week’s First Line Friday featuring my A Gingerbread House review. Because this is a picture book, we’re going to do things a little differently today. We’re going to ignore the first line part of the First Line Friday because there aren’t a lot of lines in picture books.

Why did I choose to read A Gingerbread House when I don’t have little ones at home? Simple. I love picture books. In fact, I always thought I’d be writing children’s books instead of adult books. I have a bookcase with nothing but picture books filling it. All the favorites from when my kids were little and maybe a few more in addition to those.

Besides I have grandkids. And while two of them are getting a little old for picture books, (Is that a thing, really? I think people should enjoy picture books from the time they’re born until the time they die. They are wonderful.) one of them is almost two. The perfect age for picture books.

As a GiGi to three wonderful grandkids, some of my favorite memories of times spent with the two oldest are times we spent baking together. I love to bake as much as I love a great picture book. Christmas baking has been my tradition since before I was in high school. Baking with grandkids isn’t always neat and tidy or perfect in the result, but it does create a lot of fun times to look back on.

A Gingerbread House taps into all the things I love.

Christmas. I’m there for almost anything that focuses on Christmas, its true meaning, or those things that make it such a special time of year.

Story. One that makes the ordinary experience of a Christmas tradition seem extraordinary and important. And rhyming adds a musical quality that makes the story flow.

Illustrations. Wonderful, simple illustrations to add a layer of visual enjoyment to the story. We can see the gingerbread house coming together as they complete each step.

Family. A grandfather sharing the tradition of baking and assembling a gingerbread house with his granddaughter. A granddaughter coming to realize a house is just a house without those we love turning it into a home.

In A Gingerbread House, the author gives us, and the littles in our lives, this beautiful, meaningful message in a beautifully simple, natural way. And it does it while celebrating a physical living out of the message in a fun way that will hopefully inspire each of us to spend our time making our houses homes through time spent with those we love.

I give this children’s book five stars and encourage you to share it with a little you love this Christmas.

Get your copy of A Gingerbread House.

 

 

The post A Gingerbread House Review: First Line Friday appeared first on Heather Greer.