Monday, October 20, 2025

Review: Jenny Kidd by Laury A Egan

Jenny Kidd (revised edition)

by Laury A. Egan

Publication Date: October 18, 2025

Spectrum Books, London

ISBN: 978-1-915905-61-1

182 pages. $15.99 paperback, $5.99 eBook

Cover photo: St. Mark’s Square by Thomas Stewart

Available at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0FR4GWMKP

“A twisted and sinister affaire macabre.”

—R.D. Hartwell

While spending autumn in Venice, a young American artist, Jenny Kidd, hopes to create a portfolio of paintings to launch her career and establish her independence from her tyrannical father. At the Guggenheim Collec-tion, she encounters Randi, a colorful British woman, who invites her to a masked ball at the Palazzo Barbon. There, she meets the seductive Caterina Barbon and her brother, Sebastiano, who entice Jenny into a world of glittering façades that cloak sexual per-version, art forgery, and murder. As Jenny struggles between her attraction to Caterina and her growing awareness that she is in danger, Jenny discovers an inner strength and spirit worthy of her infamous pirate ancestor.

“A little gem...a top-notch thriller…Jenny Kidd spins its web as languidly as an after-noon by the canals. Egan’s descriptions of the food, the art, and the general atmosphere are as purposeful as they are evocative. Her prose is full-bodied and elegant, and she makes prosecco and prosciutto as sumptuous as the work of Titian and Tintoretto. As delicious as Egan’s writing is when it comes to describing masked balls, four-course lunches, and miniatures painted in pastels, she also knows how to propel a mean action scene. The last twenty pages or so are a breathless rush of dark passageways, tense interrogations, and perfectly executed gore that leave you gasping and satisfied.”

—Jerry L. Wheeler, Out in Print

“A very compelling suspense novel, rife with stunning imagery and shocking plot beats. An eerie, glittering world.”

—Jennica Dotson, author of “A Reaper’s Folly”

“The plot becomes…dizzying in its twists and turns. Not only does this book offer a riveting story, but her sentences have a ca-dence that will carry you along. Once I had reached the half-way point in the book, I found it impossible to put it down.”

—Martha Miller, G & L Review

Laury A. Egan is the author of fifteen novels, including Fair Haven, Jack & I, The Psychologist’s Shadow, and The Black Leopard’s Kiss & The Writer Remembers in addition to two collections: Contrary: Stories and a Play and Fog and Other Stories, and four volumes of poetry. Laury is also a fine art photographer, who lives on the northern coast of New Jersey. Website: www.lauryaegan.com

My Review:

I have been a fan of Laury A Egan's books for awhile now. I was excited to have the opportunity to read her Jenny Kidd. I was far from being disappointed. Jenny's story had me holding on to the edge of my seat from the start. It was full of mystery, suspense, and intrigue. At under two hundred pages, I had it read in one sitting quickly.

I am going to give Jenny Kidd four and a half stars. I believe those who love to read the genres of thriller, suspense, and mystery will not want to miss out on reading this one. As always, I will be eagerly awaiting more to come from the talented author, Laury A. Egan.

I received a digital copy of Laury A Egan's Jenny Kidd from the author, but was not required to write a review, nor a positive one. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Spotlight Book Tour and Giveaway: Afghani by Brendon Patrick

Book Details:

Book Title: AFGHANI by Brendon Patrick
Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 422 pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: Bulldog Publishing Australia
Publication Date: August 2025.
Content Rating: PG-13 +M: War themes included, but nothing highly explicit

Book Description:

War is a Racket, and Culture is Blind: The True Cost of Conflict

Journey through a century of strife in this gripping dual-timeline novel with:

George Sher Gul: A Muslim cameleer fleeing early 20th Century Afghanistan, seeking hope in Australia's unforgiving outback. He navigates harsh landscapes and the prejudices of White Australia, with his dream of belonging hanging by a thread.

Patterson: An Australian soldier in post-9/11 Afghanistan, questioning the war's true motives amidst corruption and personal demons.

Their intertwined stories challenge our beliefs on war, peace, and humanity.

Experience heart-wrenching choices, cultural clashes across generations, and a quest for belonging spanning continents.

This thought-provoking historical fiction exposes deep-rooted xenophobia, drawing parallels between early 20th century Australia and today's complex geopolitical landscape.

Together, it offers a witty yet unflinching critique of global politics—questioning the cyclical nature of conflict.

From sun-baked Australian deserts to war-torn Afghan streets, immerse yourself in a powerful journey through time and culture.

Will George Sher Gul find his future in a land that views him as an outsider?

Can Patterson discover peace amidst chaos and national expectations?

Uncover these answers in a compelling tale of resilience, hope, and the enduring human spirit.

BUY THE BOOK:
AMAZON ~ AMAZON.ASIA
B&N ~ BAM
Bookbub ~ Bookshop.org
add to goodreads

Meet the Author:

I'm Brendon Patrick, an Australian storyteller with a passion for bringing forgotten histories to life. As a veteran of the Australian Army and a proud descendant of Afghan Cameleers, I write stories that explore the rich tapestry of Australia's multicultural past that you might not find in your history books.

My upcoming novel Afghani is close to my heart, and it's a journey into the lives of Afghan Cameleers who helped shape Australia, inspired by my own family heritage.

When I'm not typing away at my keyboard, you'll find me walking the bustling Brisbane streets with my camera. It’s here where I develop most of my creative inspiration.

I'd love for you to join me on this literary adventure! Drop by A Life of Prose to discover more about my work and the stories that connect us all.

connect with the authors: website ~ x/twitter ~ bookbub ~ goodreads

Interview:

What inspired you to write AFGHANI? Was there a specific moment or experience that sparked the idea for this novel?

Afghani is a dual timeline, Historical Fiction novel, but it’s also part memoir, in the hybrid sense of the word. My heritage is also Afghan, and my Great, Great Grandfather was an Afghani Cameleer and a pioneer of the early Australian outback, so one half of the story is based on him. The second half of the story is based on my own experiences, as a soldier and my contribution in the Global War on Terror. But what really inspired the novel was the Taliban takeover in 2021. As a soldier and as an Afghan descendant, this was a tough period for me, and I processed that emotion through writing Afghani!

The title AFGHANI is evocative and direct. What significance does this title hold, and how does it encapsulate the themes of your story?

Afghani is a collective term given to the Afghani pioneers, like my Great, Great Grandfather; however, the title includes Iranian, Indian and pioneers from other Persian nations. The title also encapsulates mine, and Australia’s multicultural foundation.

What research process did you undertake to ensure cultural and historical accuracy in your novel? Were there any surprising discoveries that influenced the direction of your story?

There are very limited resources available on the Afghani Cameleers, and much of it has either never been recorded, or erased from the Australian memory, so I had to rely on a lot of stories from other descendants, newspaper clippings and other self-published stories.

Which character in AFGHANI was the most challenging to write, and which one do you feel most personally connected to?

Patterson: he is based on myself, and writing about yourself, on any deepening level is extremely hard. It exposes so much of your own vulnerabilities, and it opens up a lot of old wounds.

How did your own background and experiences shape your perspective in writing this novel?

I had to take a very retrospective and introspective look at my own life. That enabled me to to see how much I’d grown as a person, and how much my thoughts and beliefs have changed. For example: I was a new soldier, at the beginning of the war in Afghanistan, and I was very proud of my job. 25 years later and I take a very different view on the nation's involvement in any global conflict.

AFGHANI likely touches on complex social and political realities. How did you balance addressing these serious themes while still crafting an engaging narrative?

At the end of the day, my role was to deliver the truth. I didn’t want to ram that down people's necks, so I write with a lot of subtly and aim to give readers enough space to make up their own minds.

What do you hope readers will take away from your novel? Is there a particular message or feeling you want to leave them with?

The main premise of this novel is: what is the true purpose of war, and in writing the novel, I did attempt to answer that very question. My ultimate takeaway was the “war is a racquet”!

How has writing AFGHANI changed you as an author or as a person? What did you learn through the process?

Reading and writing is a great tool for building empathy, and that is the biggest change that I’ve seen within myself.

What’s next for you as a writer? Are you working on another project, and if so, how does it compare to AFGHANI?

I’m currently working on a World War 2 Coming-of-age, Historical Fiction story about a boy who runs away—risking his life—so he can witness an historic event!

Enter the Giveaway:

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Movie Review and Giveaway: Grow

Fall plans just got bigger. #GrowTheFilm is in theaters October 17!

Tickets are on sale now. https://growthefilm.com/

Watch this fun fall film with your family!

A story of love that grows. At the heart of GROW is the touching bond between a prickly aunt and her spirited niece. Their journey shows that sometimes the family we need grows where we least expect it.

The most colorful cast of characters. From curmudgeonly farmers to over-the-top rivals, every character feels like they’ve stepped out of a cozy, autumnal fairy tale. Charlie’s pumpkin “Peter” isn’t the only thing full of personality—the whole town bursts with quirky charm.

Pumpkin spice in film form. Opening October 3, GROW is perfectly timed for fall and Halloween season: cozy, funny, and a safe, whimsical alternative to scary movies.

“Wild gardening” meets whimsy. Charlie’s affinity for plants will inspire kids—and kids at heart—to dance to their plants and care for the environment.

Synopsis:

In the Pumpkin Capital of the World, stoic farmer Dinah Little (Golda Rosheuvel) begrudgingly takes in her spirited niece, Charlie (Priya-Rose Brookwell). But Charlie isn’t an ordinary child—she has a special knack for connecting with plants that quietly reflects her own longing to feel just as seen and loved. As the town prepares for the annual pumpkin-growing contest, Charlie sets her sights on winning. With the help of quirky Arlo (Nick Frost), plot and pumpkins thicken as rival growers pull every trick in the book. Will Charlie and Dinah’s unlikely entry stand tall against the fiercest competition the town has ever seen? As her pumpkin grows, so does her bond with Dinah, and together they learn the real prize is joy, laughter, and family.

Check out the Downloadable Kids Activity Book

Buy tickets today to see Grow in theaters starting October 17

Website/Buy Tickets

Facebook

Instagram

My Review:

I have to admit I was not sure what I would think of Grow at first. I thought it was potentially just another cheesy little movie. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how it is so much more than that. I absolutely loved Charlie and her ability to show those around her the power of love, patience, and hope. She was unfortunately given a sad life of not being wanted and began her search of belonging. What she discovers along the way was so heartwarming and the lessons that so many of us can learn from. The movie is heartwarming, funny, and kid friendly. I thought it was great.

I am going to give Grow a very well deserved five stars. I highly recommend it for viewers of all ages. It would be perfect for a family to spend time together.

I received an early screener link to view Grow from US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Disclosure:

Many thanks to US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Giveaway:

$10 Amazon giftcard

Leave a more than a three word completed sentence telling me who you will be watching Grow with. Don’t forget to leave your NAME and EMAIL ADDRESS in your comment so I can contact you if you win. Winner’s name will be drawn on October 22, 2025.

Giveaway Rules:

Giveaway is limited to US winners only.

Three or less word comments will be deleted and will not be entered into the giveaway.

Chosen winner/s will be contacted by email to verify information needed to give to the appropriate channels to get the prize to you.

Winner/s MUST reply to this email within 24 hours.

If no response, a new winner’s name will be drawn and you forfeit the prize.

Locks, Hooks and Books is NOT responsible for lack of response from the chosen winner.

Winners from previous Momentum campaigns within 90 days will be disqualified.

Please note: Locks, Hooks and Books is NOT responsible in sending the prize.

Monday, October 13, 2025

Spotlight Book Tour and Giveaway: One Foot in the Ether: Whispers of the Pendle Witches by Kayleigh Kavanagh

Book Details:

Book Title: ONE FOOT IN THE ETHER: Whispers of the Pendle Witches by Kayleigh Kavanagh
Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 400 pages
Genre: Historical paranormal fantasy
Publisher: Oriana Neoma
Publication Date: September 29, 2025.
Content Rating: PG-13 +M: Things are alluded to, not directly shown. one of the fmc is a midwife so these themes come up

Book Description:

Death wasn’t the end.

More than two hundred and fifty years after the infamous Pendle Witch Trials, the spirits of rival witches Demdike and Chattox remain tethered to their bloodlines—watching, waiting, and bound by unfinished business.

Now, in the late eighteen hundreds, a pragmatic midwife and a troubled young psychic—descendants of the two witches—are drawn into a haunting legacy. An ancient being is stirring—an angry god of the old world, hungry for vengeance and ready to consume the future.

To stop it, the living and the dead must unite, recovering the lost knowledge of their craft. Whilst facing age-old problems and new foes. Some spirits don’t rest easy, and in Pendle, they’re clawing their way back from the past.

BUY THE BOOK:
AMAZON
add to goodreads

Meet the Author:

Kayleigh Kavanagh is a disabled writer from the North-West of England. Growing up in the area, she learnt a lot about the Pendle Witches and launched her debut novel around their life story. Her main writing genres are fantasy and romance, but she loves stories in all formats. Kayleigh hopes to one day be able to share the many ideas dancing around in her head with the world.

connect with the authors: website ~facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Interview:

How did you do research for your book?

Mostly online. For the first book I went a lot more in depth, having studied the witches for my university essay. However, as this one delved more into the fantastical and it was more about checking if certain items would have existed during the time period rather than the specific knowledge I needed for the book 1.

Which was the hardest character to write? The easiest?

Probably Yana because she has a very naive and trusting nature which isn’t inherent to my personality.

In your book, you make a reference to midwives and standardisation. How did you come up with the idea to incorporate this into your story?

When I decided to look at the 1800s it kept coming up, particularly with the revival of doulas and midwives as alternative or preferred delivery partners in more recent years. When I discovered how much these women had been targeted and denigrated in favour of male doctors, I felt this would be a perfect subplot for my books.

There are many books out there about witches. What makes yours different?

I think the way I approached the subject. These were women who were victims and purposely targeted for political agendas. I wanted to give them sympathy, but to show they were also people—complex and complicated. There are a lot of stories locally about the witches still being around and haunting places. It made me think, “If they were still around, why? And what would they be sticking around for?” Dead witches with ties to the physical world and being guides to their families is definitely a less explored aspect of the genre.

What made you write a book about the witches in this unusual way?

I really didn’t want to just cover the trials. I wanted which felt natural but could leave a more hopeful ending and possibility for more in the future. Being spirits and reincarnation seemed like a great solution to this problem.

Where do you get inspiration for your stories?

From everywhere. I get so many ideas a day for stories, it would be impossible to write them all, but everything in life informs my creative process in some way. What could happen if one small detail was changed, how would some react if this event happened, there are so many things which could be amazing stories, we just need to have the time and patience to write them.

What advice would you give budding writers?

Cliche answer, but just keep writing. You’ll never get better if you don’t. Reading a lot and editing are also essential, as they help you grow and hone your craft.

Enter the Giveaway:

Sunday, October 12, 2025

Blog Tour and Giveaway: A Hidden Hope by Suzanne Woods Fisher

About the Book

Book: A Hidden Hope

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Amish Fiction

Release Date: October 7, 2025

Supervising two newly minted medical residents might be the toughest challenge Ruth “Dok” Stoltzfus has ever faced. Wren Baker, sharp and ambitious, graduated at the top of medical school with a hidden agenda in tow. Charlie King, at the bottom of the class, is determined to succeed–though Dok isn’t convinced he’s got what it takes. Then there’s traveling nurse Evie Miller, whose quiet love for Charlie doesn’t go unnoticed, especially by Wren.

Boarding at Windmill Farm, the trio struggles to balance modern medicine with plain living. Between medical emergencies, cultural misunderstandings, and brewing romantic tensions, Dok finds herself juggling far more than she bargained for. Soon the stage is set in the small Amish community of Stoney Ridge for plenty of professional and personal complications.

Click here to get your copy!

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 Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestselling author of more than forty books. Her genres include contemporary and historical romances and Amish fiction. Suzanne and her husband live in a small town in northern California. Most friends act a little nervous around her 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

The Kitchen Garden by Suzanne Woods Fisher

“Gardening is a way of showing that you believe in tomorrow.” Amish proverb

Whenever I visit my Amish friends, I always make a point of wandering out to their vegetable gardens to see what’s growing. Their gardens, usually not far from the kitchen, are bigger than most people’s backyards. Gardens, for the Amish, are a family affair. Husbands help their wives ready the soil and add the homebrewed fertilizer (ahem, manure), children help their moms plant, weed, and harvest.

Like so many parts of the Plain life, their value of the home garden—for the sake of nutrition, for sustenance, for well-being—is a wonderful example to those of us who weren’t farm-raised. They’ve been living a sustainable life filled with fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables for over four hundred years. The rest of us are just catching on.

One Amish mom told me a story about her daughter, the youngest of seven. “This girl was a born worrier. Whenever she started on her worry loop, I would send her out to weed in the garden. When she came back in, her worries were gone. There’s just something about weeding that helps a soul settle down.”

I could expand that thought a little further. There’s just something about gardening that helps a soul settle down.

So, it’s late on Saturday and I just wrapped up a very long week. I spoke at three book events and finished the first draft (the drafty-draft) of a novel. I can’t stop thinking about the novel. Is it a mess? As tired as I am, tonight I don’t think I’ve got one more word in me—not to speak, not to write. I’m spent! Done. My husband is out for the evening, so I had a few hours alone at home to relax.

What did I do?

I planted in my garden: lettuce and radishes and carrots. As I dug in the spongy soil, I could feel my soul settle. Worry and exhaustion slipped away as I scattered seeds into furrows. Little by little, that wonderful God-given sense of re-creation returned. Tomorrow, I would write again. Time spent in my little garden does that for me. It renews me and gives me a hope for the future.

Or, at the very least, a good salad.

Overnight Blueberry French Toast

On a sunny July morning, we were served this breakfast dish at an Amish friend’s home and my husband couldn’t stop talking about it. You might be shocked at the amount of eggs, but don’t skimp! It’s worth every bite.

12 slices bread cut in 1” cubes

8 oz. cream cheese cut in ¾” cubes

1 ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries

12 eggs

1/3 cup maple syrup

2 cups milk

Place half the bread cubes in a 9×13 baking dish. Top with cream cheese blueberries and the remaining bread. Beat eggs, syrup and milk and pour evenly over bread.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until well done.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 7

The Avid Reader, October 7

Maureen’s Musings, October 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, October 8

Simple Harvest Reads, October 9 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10

Devoted To Hope, October 10

lakesidelivingsite, October 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 12

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 13

Mary Hake, October 13

She Lives To Read, October 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 15

Empowermoms, October 15

Texas Book-aholic, October 16

Blossom and Blessings, October 16

Vicky Sluiter, October 17

Little Homeschool on the Prairie , October 17

For Him and My Family, October 18

Holly’s Book Corner, October 18

Cover Lover Book Review, October 19

Blogging With Carol, October 20

Southern Gal Loves to Read, October 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://sweepwidget.com/c/92952-v9da3leu

My Review

Suzanne Woods Fisher is among my favorite Amish fiction writers. I was excited to have the opportunity to read her latest book, A Hidden Hope. I was far from being disappointed. I enjoyed this story of love, faith, and hope. It was a delight getting to know the characters and seeing them all grow throughout the book. It was a quick read for me and a wonderful way to spend a fall afternoon on my back porch.

I am going to give A Hidden Hope four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who love to read clean Amish Romantic Fiction. As always, I will be on the look out for more releases like this one from Suzanne Woods Fisher in the future.

I received a copy of Suzanne Woods Fisher's A Hidden Hope from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Friday, October 10, 2025

Blurb Blitz and Giveaway: The Deceiver's Fall by J A Jackson

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. J.A. Jackson will be awarding a $15 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

The stakes have never been higher for Eve Lafoy. After narrowly escaping a chilling abduction, she’s thrust into a darker world of hidden betrayals and dangerous secrets. This time, she refuses to be the victim—she’s ready to take on those who deceived her.

Hawke Deville, carrying secrets of his own, is the only one Eve dares to trust. Yet his loyalty isn’t without its own complexities. With a powerful attraction between them, they must navigate a web of lies, as one wrong move could shatter everything they’re fighting for.

In this thrilling sequel, Eve and Hawke are drawn into a ruthless conspiracy that challenges their trust, passion, and survival. With enemies circling, they’ll need every ounce of courage to unveil the truth before it’s too late. The Deceiver’s Fall is a heart-pounding tale packed with suspense, electrifying twists, and a fierce romance that will grip readers until the final, unforgettable page.

High-Stakes Fierce Romance Thriller

Read an Excerpt:

Eve Lafoy, a captivating realtor in the heart of Silicon Valley, stood poised at the entrance of a breathtaking mansion. The grandeur of the estate seemed to whisper secrets as she prepared to introduce it to the enigmatic billionaire Rancor Rochon. Her vibrant green eyes shimmered with a mixture of excitement and curiosity as she awaited Rancor’s arrival.

By her side stood Carina Sinclair, Eve’s spirited best friend. Carina’s infectious energy and unwavering support had been a constant in Eve’s life, providing solace during moments of doubt and strength during times of uncertainty. Today was no different, as Carina offered words of encouragement, her voice laced with a touch of excitement.

“You’ve got this, Eve,” Carina whispered, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. “This mansion is simply stunning, and Rancor won’t be able to resist its allure.”

Eve listened to her friend Carina encouraging chatter as her mind wondered. Selling real estate could be a lonely business. Not to mention it could sometimes be unsafe for a woman to show a home alone. Especially a huge mansion like the one she was showing today. She had brought Carina with her because she knew that there was safety in numbers.

About the Author: J.A. Jackson is the pseudonym for an author, who loves to write deliciously sultry adult romantic, suspenseful, entertaining novels with a unique twist. She lives in an enchanted little house she calls home in the Northern California foothills. Her love for cooking and writing come from her Southern roots of Louisiana and Arkansas. She is a member of South Bay Writers Association, Yosemite Romance Writers and Romance Writers of America (RWA).

Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Deceivers-Secret-Book-II-ebook/dp/B0DS3Q5YMK/ref=sr_1_1

Thursday, October 9, 2025

Spotlight and Giveaway: As Far as the West by Barbara A Curtis

About the Book

Book: As Far as the West

Author: Barbara A. Curtis

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: September 23, 2025

His only chance at happiness lies in the hands of a woman determined to expose his family’s darkest secrets.

Josiah Calloway lives in the shadow of two battles—the war that cost him his future and his leg, and the shame of his father’s betrayal. To restore his family’s honor, Josiah secretly repays the debts his father left behind, one by one. But the largest debt remains unpaid—to the Morgan family, his father’s sworn enemies.

Determined to save her family’s ranch, Lizzie Morgan takes a job at a Boise tailor shop, only to discover her employer is Benton Calloway, a man with a decades-old vendetta against her parents. Lizzie suspects he’s up to no good and plans to uncover proof of his schemes against her parents. The one bright spot in her dangerous game is Benton’s kind-hearted son who walks her home each evening, whose gentle ways and protective nature make her heart flutter.

As every evening walk draws them closer, Josiah finds himself falling for this determined seamstress with fire in her spirit and grace in her heart. When feelings deepen and Benton’s threats escalate, Josiah is given an ultimatum. But protecting Lizzie from his father might risk losing her trust and love forever. Can love overcome a legacy of betrayal or will the truth shatter everything they’ve built?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Barbara A. Curtis lives in Connecticut with her husband, and they have one grown son, a blessing to their hearts. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Novel Academy.

More from Barbara

Have you ever felt like a kid in a candy store?

In As Far as the West, eleven-year-old Gideon Brighton has the joy of living out that saying as he works for his grandmother in her candy shop, with his pay being in candy. And as a young entrepreneur, he has big dreams for Brighton’s Candy Shop.

Can you picture yourself sticking a hand into a big glass jar and pulling out favorites like Tootsie Rolls and Mary Janes? And other favorites of the day—Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Kisses and Clark’s Teaberry and Wriggley’s Juicy Fruit gums. DeMet’s Turtles, Whitman’s Samplers, Cadbury’s, Life Savers, and Brach’s caramel squares. Necco wafers and butterscotch Reed’s Rolls. Yes, all available in 1920 and ready for Gideon to dig into. But his favorite of all? His Grandma Brighton’s homemade fudge.

Do you have a favorite “old-fashioned” candy that fills you with nostalgia? Or images of being a kid in a candy store yourself?

If you continue on with the next book in the series, Gathered from the North, you’ll get to meet Gideon once again—as an adult and owner of Brighton’s Candy Shop—and see if the young businessman fulfills his dream of adding an ice cream parlor to it.

I hope you enjoy As Far as the West—and maybe it’ll inspire you to make a visit to an old-fashioned candy shop yourself.

Blessings!

Barbara