Mystic, Muffins, and Murder by Tonya Kappes

I loved this wonderful cozy filled with magic, romance and murder. I loved Lo and Orin, the three Mary’s and Skylar Blue. I loved getting to see how Lo is handling her magic. I enjoyed seeing how Lo solves the murder with a little help from her friends and magic. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I give this book a five out of five stars.

PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION

Have you missed the Magical Cures Mystery Series? You don’t want to miss this new series from USA TODAY Bestselling Author Tonya Kappes!

The characters you loved so much in the Magical Cures Mystery Series will be secondary characters as Lo Heal Park, the daughter of June Heal and Oscar Park, learns to find her own footing as she steps into her adulthood with her own story to live and to tell!

Murder in a Lavender Daze by Daryl Wood Gerber with a giveaway

I loved this fun cozy mystery with a great cat, Vivi. I loved Emma and her friends and family. I enjoyed that Emma felt compelled to help people find calmness in their lives even when they were stressed. I enjoyed all of the laughs and the mystery. I really liked the descriptions of the calming crystals and the treatments at the spa. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I give this book a five out of five stars.

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urder in a Lavender Daze (An Aroma Wellness Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Setting – Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington Cozies
Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 28, 2026
Print length ‏ : ‎ 304 pages
Paperback
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496751523
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496751522
Digital
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496751539
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FKWZ7F23

Emma Brennan always knew that her idyllic California hometown of Carmel-by-the-Sea would be the perfect place to open her very own spa. The success of her Aroma Wellness Spa, gift shop, and café has proved her right. But while the business is located in the Courtyard of Peace, Emma finds herself privy to events that are far from serene—like murder . . .

With its soothing décor and tempting treatments, customers are flocking to Aroma Wellness for more than just facials and massages. Lately, Emma has been booking private events, from spa parties to bridal showers and birthdays. Next on her calendar is something really unique: A “Happily Divorced” party.

After eight years of marriage, Addison Lacey is divorcing her husband, whom she claims convinced her he was Mr. Nice Guy when he was really Mr. Controlling Guy. To kick off her journey toward becoming a better version of herself, Addison wants to celebrate, bigtime. Her wealthy mother, Gianna, a former model turned difficult diva, is footing the bill. . . . But when Emma goes to Gianna’s home to pick up the final payment, she and Addison find her dead in her bed amid the aroma of lavender, with an herbal-infused pillow from the party nearby.

Soon, Addison is a prime suspect. But Emma knows there are plenty of others Gianna rubbed the wrong way, including her soon-to-be ex-son-in-law. Once again, with the help of her cousin, her nana, and her trusted Birman cat, Vivi, Emma is determined to sniff out a killer—whether the police like it or not . . .

About Daryl Wood Gerber

daryl wood gerber

Daryl Wood Gerber is the Agatha Award-winning and nationally bestselling author of the Literary Dining MysteriesAroma Wellness MysteriesFairy Garden Mysteries, and Cookbook Nook Mysteries. As Avery Aames, she penned the popular Cheese Shop Mysteries. In addition, Daryl writes suspense novels, including the well-received Accidental Murder, The Son’s SecretGirl on the Run, and the popular Aspen Adams trilogy. Daryl has published a standalone Christmas romance, Hope for the Holidays, and her short stories have appeared in numerous anthologies. Fun Tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in “Murder, She Wrote.” She loves to cook, garden, read, and walk her frisky Goldendoodle. Also, she has been known to jump out of a perfectly good airplane. You can learn more on her website: https://darylwoodgerber.com

Author Links

WEBSITE: https://darylwoodgerber.com

FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/darylwoodgerber

BOOKBUB: https://bookbub.com/authors/daryl-wood-gerber

YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/woodgerb1

INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/darylwoodgerber

GOODREADS: https://goodreads.com/darylwoodgerber

BLUE SKY: @darylwoodgerber.bsky.social

Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N – Kobo – Bookshop.org – Website

Giveaway: https://kingsumo.com/g/1wgxzjm/murder-in-a-lavender-daze-an-aroma-wellness-mystery-by-daryl-wood-gerber

Prize – $20 book.org certificate and a choice of Aroma Wellness Mystery #1 or Literary Dining Mystery #1 or #2. Paperback or ebook.

The Top of the World by Elizabeth Camden

I loved this wonderful contemporary romance. I enjoyed the descriptions of Greenland and could imagine the bone cold feeling that Quentin must have felt. I really enjoyed how Holly and Quentin had to grow up before they could really be together. I loved the emotions this story made me feel. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I give this book a five out of five stars.

PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION

They were perfect together—until powerful forces pulled them apart. Now fate has given them a second chance at the top of the world.

Holly Fermoy fought her way out of poverty to build a successful career in the Air Force. Stationed at a remote Arctic base in northern Greenland, she is focused on her job—and trying to forget the college romance that once lit up her world.
Quentin Chadwick, the privileged son from a powerful political dynasty, never got over the woman who vanished from his life without explanation. When he finally uncovers the truth behind her disappearance, he follows Holly to the edge of the world to make things right.

Under the midnight sun, Holly and Quentin rediscover what once drew them together—but old wounds, buried secrets, and clashing values may tear them apart again.

The Top of the World is a sweeping, heartfelt love story about second chances, resilience, and the courage to choose love against the odds.

Cat on a Hot Tin Woof by Spencer Quinn

I loved this wonderful cozy mystery that is told by the dog. I loved Bernie the private detective and Chet the dog. I love how these two work together and are best friends. I love all the laughs in the story. I enjoyed all of the twists and turns and the great descriptions that Chet voiced. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I give this a five out of five stars.

PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION

Join Chet the dog, “the most lovable narrator in all of fiction” (Boston Globe), and his human partner Bernie as they scramble to solve a case exposing the dark side of internet fame.

Chet the dog is less than enthusiastic about the Little Detective Agency’s next case. Chet and his human partner, PI Bernie Little, have been hired to find a missing person–only the missing person is a cat. Miss Kitty, an internet sensation, has disappeared, and Chet and Bernie have been hired to find her before her many followers realize something is wrong.

Miss Kitty belongs to Bitty, a sweet teenage girl who lives with her mom. Bitty and her mother are struggling financially, but the arrival of Miss Kitty and the chance discovery of her social media appeal has changed everything. Bitty now has sponsors, a high-powered agent, and all the tools needed to thrive online, and real money is flowing in. At least, it was. With Miss Kitty gone, the family’s income is on the line.

The case presents a slew of challenges for Chet and Bernie. For one thing, a potential witness is a pig named Senor Piggy who may be in possession of an important piece of evidence. For another, it seems like a possible perp has been killed twice–and there’s evidence implicating Bernie in the crime. s a slew of challenges for Chet and Bernie. For one thing, a potential witness is a pig named Senor Piggy who may be in possession of an important piece of evidence. For another, it seems like a possible perp has been killed twice–and there’s evidence implicating Bernie in the crime.s a slew of challenges for Chet and Bernie. For one thing, a potential witness is a pig named Senor Piggy who may be in possession of an important piece of evidence. For another, it seems like a possible perp has been killed twice–and there’s evidence implicating Bernie in the crime.s a slew of challenges for Chet and Bernie. For one thing, a potential witness is a pig named Senor Piggy who may be in possession of an important piece of evidence. For another, it seems like a possible perp has been killed twice–and there’s evidence implicating Bernie in the crime.

The Lumber Baron’s Wife by Lynn Austin

I loved this fantastic historical/contemporary story. I loved learning about the lumber barons and the good and bad they created and destroyed in Michigan. I loved Hannah, Kate, Ashley and David. I enjoyed how inspiring this story is. I loved how Kate helped Hannah learn to love life again. I could not put the book down. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I give this book a five out of five stars.

PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION

When the young wife of a powerful lumber baron vanishes into the wilds of frontier Michigan, her friend is left to unravel the truth in this captivating dual-timeline novel from bestselling author Lynn Austin.1873. After a devastating loss, Hannah Wagner never imagined she’d leave her comfortable home for the harsh, unfamiliar wilderness near Lake Michigan. But when Henry Abernathy—a friend of her husband, John—offers them a fresh start in a booming lumber town, where John’s skills as a doctor are sorely needed, Hannah reluctantly agrees. There, she meets Kate, Henry’s spirited, much younger wife. Kate’s sharp tongue and outsider status have made her unwelcome among the town’s elite, and when she begins confiding in Hannah, it’s clear her marriage is not what it seems . . . and that a secret from her past could destroy everything.Present day. Ashley Gilbert never planned to settle in Michigan, but when her husband lands his dream job as a conservationist, she agrees to follow. While restoring their historic home—built in the 19th century for a doctor and his wife—Ashley becomes captivated by its past and its connection to the nearby Abernathy mansion, now being transformed into a museum. While volunteering with the restoration, she stumbles upon the unsolved mystery of Kate Abernathy’s disappearance. What begins as curiosity soon becomes a quest for the truth—one that will connect her to two women whose stories and struggles echo and inspire her own.Standalone historical fiction about marriage, grief, and the power of female friendships from the author of All My Secrets and Long Way HomeA richly layered Christian women’s fiction novel with elements of mystery, perfect for fans of Martha Hall Kelly, Kristy Cambron, and Susan MeissnerIncludes discussion questions for book clubs

Unsolved Amish Abduction by Mary Alford

I loved this absolutely wonderful romantic suspense. I loved that this starts with suspense right at the beginning. I loved getting to know Jaxson, Anna, Grace and Tracker. I could not put the book down as there were lots of twists and turns. I enjoyed that this story revolves around the Amish. I loved that this was a very emotional story between Anna and Jaxson. I was very surprised by the ending of the book and I loved it. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I loved how fast paced this story was and I enjoyed how well Jaxson was able to get to know Grace very quickly.

I give this book a five out of five stars.

PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION

The mystery of her sister’s disappearance
could reveal some deadly answers…


An anonymous letter containing her missing sister’s bracelet lures Anna Hartzler back to her Amish hometown—and into a trap set by the kidnapper she escaped years ago. She’s rescued from another abduction by Jaxson Thomas, her former neighbor turned police officer. Now Anna must depend on Jaxson to protect her and her little girl, who he doesn’t know is his child. But as the threats grow, can he keep them safe long enough to identify and catch the culprit—before this enemy sets his sights on their daughter?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Chancing the Frontiersman’s Heart by Andrea Byrd with a giveaway

I loved this fast paced historical romance. I loved that this story is based in Kentucky during a very turbulent time period. I enjoyed getting to know Jacob and Dawn and Mary. I loved that Dawn overcame a disability and finds a true family. I enjoyed that Jacob learns that family is very important. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I give this book a five out of five stars.

About the Book

Book: Chancing the Frontiersman’s Heart

Author: Andrea Byrd

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: March 24, 2026

From Andrea Byrd comes a stirring tale of faith and courage on the Kentucky frontier—a story of second chances, steadfast love, and the family bonds that sustain us through life’s darkest hours. Perfect for fans of Lori Wick and Janette Oke.

Kentucky Territory, 1782

When Dawn agrees to travel west with her cruel stepparents, she has one goal—to reunite her young stepsister Mary with her uncle at Bryan’s Station. But a chance encounter with Jacob McFadin, her childhood sweetheart, changes everything. Despite her missing left hand and the scars of rejection she carries, Jacob sees past her differences and offers marriage to help protect them on their journey.

Jacob has spent years trying to prove himself as more than just the youngest McFadin brother. When he recognizes Dawn, the girl who captured his heart years ago, he knows God has given him a second chance. But his desire to finally make a name for himself threatens to tear apart their fragile new family.

As they face the perils of the Kentucky wilderness and escalating tensions with British and Indian forces, Dawn and Jacob must learn to trust in God’s plan—and each other. When violence erupts at Bryan’s Station, they discover that true worth isn’t found in grand achievements, but in the boundless love of family and faith.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Andrea Byrd is a small-town wife and mom from southern Kentucky who harbors a deep love of days gone by, expressed with pioneer skirts and a once-in-a-lifetime ride in an authentic biplane. She seeks to respect the past, giving voice to those that came before, while reminding readers that no aspect of their past defines them.

More from Andrea

As a reader of historical fiction, I love reaching the end of a novel and reading the author’s note to learn how real people and events inspired the written words. Now, as an author myself, I try to provide the same for my own readers and Chancing the Frontiersman’s Heart is no exception.

While the Siege of Yorktown is considered the last major battle of the revolutionary war, ten months afterward, American forces would suffer great losses at the Battle of Blue Licks. During this conflict, more than sixty Kentuckians would lose their lives.

However, what intrigued me most about this piece of American history was actually the events leading up to it. The Battle of Blue Licks was a result of a skirmish a few days prior: the Siege of Bryan’s Station. In what is now Lexington, Kentucky, a fortified settlement was attacked by Delaware and Shawnee warriors, as well as Canadian Rangers.

Playing a vital part in the station’s ability to withstand the attack, of course, were the women of Bryan’s Station. During this conflict, the women would do more than simply provide support though. They would put themselves directly in harm’s way, venturing outside the safety of the settlement walls, in order to fetch water from the spring. Though Bryan’s Station was surrounded and they could be descended upon the moment they left the fold, the women (and girls) marched forwarded with heads held high to do what had to be done.

As soon as I learned of the women of Bryan’s Station and their act of bravery, I knew I had to weave these historical events into this novel. I hope you find their story as inspiring as I did!

Happy Reading!

Andrea Byrd

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, March 28

Books Less Travelled, March 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 30

Bizwings Blog, March 30

lakesidelivingsite, March 31

Sylvan Musings, April 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 2

Devoted To Hope, April 3

For Him and My Family, April 3

Abba’s Warrior Princess, April 4

Life on Chickadee Lane, April 5

Bigreadersite, April 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 7

Mary Hake, April 7

Fruitfully Planted, April 8

Holly’s Book Corner, April 8

Lyssa Loves Books, April 9

Books You Can Feel Good About, April 10

Pause for Tales, April 10

Giveaway

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

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

https://gleam.io/KhGOn/chancing-the-frontiersmans-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

Pursued on the Run by Terri Reed

I loved this fantastic book filled with action, suspense and romance. I love Sean and Tracy as they navigate how they will work together now. I loved all the twists and turns. I loved that I had no idea who was after Sean and Tracy until just about the end. I received a copy of the book and gave an honest opinion.

I give this book a five out of five stars.

PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION

He’ll do anything to clear his name…
and protect his son.

Framed for a crime he didn’t commit, former sheriff’s investigator Sean Donovan is finally released from prison, only to be ambushed by unknown assailants–and left with a chilling warning. With his attackers now targeting his former fiancée, Assistant District Attorney Tracy Lynwood, he must take her under his protection…along with the son he didn’t know about. Fleeing to a remote location in Lake Tahoe, Sean and Tracy must navigate a web of corruption to expose the truth. But with fatal threats and untrustworthy allies everywhere, can they prove Sean’s innocence…and stay alive?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.