I am a Christian, a retired teacher, a mother and a grandmother. I love to read and I love the Lord Jesus Christ! Unless otherwise specified ,all visual illustrations are from the YOU VERSION APP of the Bible.
There is so much evil all around us that I thought I would remind everyone that God gives us protection if we choose to use it.
And a song, too, since it is worship Sunday:
Faith Gear-Armor of God by Christian Nation 1000
Have a blessed and wonderful Sunday as you prepare yourselves to go into the world and worship our King!
theblogera.com/davis-roethler-doesnt-just-wash-windows-he-saves-the-businesses-behind-them/
I loved this story about a regular guy who washes windows and then promotes the restaurant. It’s amazing the small things we can do to help others stay in business. Please go to the original blog, like and follow. And comment below if you have observed an act of kindness that should be recognized.
I have a special for you today, so I will start with my surprise video interview with author Terri Reed. She offered, I accepted, sent her the questions and this is the result. You will see when you watch the video that Terri is personable, relatable and entertaining. She is a very talented author, so watch the interview, read my review and get your copy of Danger in the Rockies.
Now, on to fun facts about the book and how you can get your copy!
ISBN-139781335957757
PublisherHarlequin
Publication Date05/26/2026
SeriesColorado K-9 Unit
Pages:208
K-9 officer Maren Anderson is shocked when she catches a glimpse of her presumed-dead twin sister—moments before a shooter opens fire. DEA agent Colt Dawson rescues her and helps secure the crime scene, but before Maren can find her sister, Opal vanishes again. Maren has questions and so does Colt—especially since Opal may be the key to exposing a drug kingpin’s identity. But now the cartel leader’s henchmen think Maren is her sister and she has a target on her back. Forced to work together to unravel the deadly mystery, Maren and Colt must track down her twin before the criminals closing in claim their lives…
This is a skillfully plotted love inspired suspense novel with characters that are relatable and believable. The story of K-9 officer Maren Anderson’s quest to find her missing sister Opal, even while she is engaged in her main assignment of breaking up a baby trafficking ring, is emotionally gut-wrenching at times. The equally important task of DEA agent Colt Dawson to identify and capture the drug kingpin known only as Shadow dovetails perfectly with Maren’s assignment and in some unexpected ways. Maren looks identical to Opal since they are twins and that makes for escalating danger for her since Shadow thinks she is Opal and can possibly identify him. This book led me on an entertaining and enjoyable chase to follow the clues as I tried to figure out who Shadow was and whether Opal was still alive or not. There are plenty of fake trails that misled me and the deliberate misdirection was part of what made the plot so engaging. There is good chemistry between Maren and Colt, but I most enjoyed their interactions with their well-trained and heroic canines, Haven and Rusk. I was impressed with the obedience and the natural intuition of both dogs who were intent on the task of protecting their owners and finding the villains. The realistic details throughout the book had me absorbed in the story and lent themselves to the suspense and the propulsive pace of this fascinating tale of characters facing constant danger together as they ferret out the lies and separate the deception from the truth. This book is compelling with a dramatic climax in an addictive and immersive story.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Terri Reed is a New York Times and USA Today Featuredbestselling author specializing in action-packed Christian romantic suspense. She has published over 60 novels with major houses like Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense, Simon & Schuster, and Tule Publishing. Her work consistently appears on the Publishers Weekly, Amazon, and Nielsen BookScan bestseller lists.
What type of books does Terri Reed write?
Terri Reed writes faith-rooted stories that blend high-stakes adventure, danger, and emotional depth with heartwarming character connections. Her novels are characterized as inspirational romantic suspense, often featuring professional protectors like K-9 units, US Marshals, and military personnel. Like authors Lynette Eason and Colleen Coble, her stories emphasize characters who rely on their Christian faith to overcome life-threatening adversity.
What are Terri Reed’s most famous books?
Terri Reed’s notable works include the Alaska K-9 Unitseries, the US Marshals series, and the standalone novel A Family Under the Christmas Tree. In 2019, A Family Under the Christmas Tree was adapted into the Hallmark Channelmovie titled Picture a Perfect Christmas. Other popular series include the Military K-9 Unit and Love Inspired Suspense collections.
What awards has Terri Reed won?
Terri Reed is an award-winning author whose accolades include NEW YORK TIMES as well as being a multi-time finalist for the ACFW Carol Award, the Romance Writers of America RITA Award, and the National Readers’ Choice Award. She is a recognized member of the Romance Writers of America Honor Roll. Her novels have achieved #1 Bestseller status on Amazon in multiple categories, including Religion Fiction and Romance.
Where does Terri Reed live and how can readers connect?
Terri Reed resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and enjoys agility training with her Australian Shepherd. She maintains an active community of readers through her official website and Linktree, offering inspiration and “moments of escape” through her storytelling. Check out her website for a printable list of her books and more information: terrireed.com
Well, I can’t be very active physically because my body just isn’t being cooperative, but I have been reading a lot. In fact, on Tuesday, I was on launch/review teams for nine different books. I usually try not to schedule so many on one day, but I kept saying “yes” and didn’t get a good look at my calendar until I had already agreed. That being said, I read some really entertaining books and want to put the Love Inspired Suspense Books that I read on your radar.
My short synopsis: Bethany is in a car accident and loses her memory so she has no idea why someone wants her dead. Her rescuer is an undercover Fish and Game agent and risks blowing his cover to keep her safe. Lots of secrets and surprises!
My short review: I never miss the chance to read a Carrie Stuart Parks book and was delighted to find an LIS releasing from her this month. She always has a few thrills up her sleeve and does fantastic research that makes the book relatable and realistic. My rating was five stars and you can grab your copy here: Harlequin and other retailers
My short synopsis: Takes place in the wilderness and the plot revolves around weapons-smugglers who have kidnapped a little boy. The woman on the cover represents Constable Taylor Grant and her fearless canine Shadow who helps find Levi and keep him and his father safe.
My short review: This book is fast-paced with non-stop action and a surprise revelation of the villain. I kept trying to guess who was the head of the smuggling ring but kept getting it wrong. I loved following the clues! My rating was five stars and you can purchase your copy here: Harlequin and others For those who enjoy audiobooks: Audible
My short synopsis: K-9 officer Maren Anderson is desperate to find her missing sister Opal. DEA agent Colt Dawson is on the trail of a drug kingpin when the two of them find that their quests overlap. Plenty of hair-raising scenes and two lovable and trained canines!
My short review: This book started with a punch and packed a wallop all the way to the end. The drug kingpin is well hidden and the revelation of his identity was a fun surprise. I enjoyed the subtle romance in this book because the focus was on the mystery of Opal and the cartel leader. Super fast read and entertaining from beginning to end. Five stars and a must-read recommendation from me. You can get your copy here: Harlequin and others And for audiobook lovers: Audible
ISBN-13:9781335460486
Publisher:Harlequin
Publication date:05/26/2026
Series:Meet Me at Niagara Falls , #4
Pages:336
Growing up in Niagara Falls, Lauren Benedict and Seth Jones were inseparable…until he seemingly betrayed her family. Ten years later, Lauren finally learns the truth, so she sets out to apologize and, hopefully, rebuild their friendship. But Seth, now a firefighter and a dad, doesn’t want to mend fences. His quiet son, however, is fascinated by Lauren—whom he calls the flower lady. And he’s desperate to join her summer gardening class. As Lauren shows Teddy how to nurture seedlings, she and Seth are drawn into each other’s lives a second time. But can one magical summer prove it’s never too late for friendship…or love to bloom again?
What a wonderfully uplifting story of love lost, found again and forgiveness between family and friends! Lauren Benedict and Seth Jones were good friends before they started falling in love. Then, Seth did a responsible and sacrificial act and his long-standing relationship with the Benedict family was broken. Through serendipity, Seth’s young son Teddy loves the “flower lady,” his nickname for Lauren who’s a horticulturalist in the park at Niagara Falls. Through opening doors of communication and making right choices to really listen to each other, Lauren and Seth reconnect. The story is believable and strongly infused with family and hope for a bright future. I really enjoyed the setting, but I was totally entranced with the characters, especially little Teddy who had problems speaking until he found a passion for flowers, much like his beloved “flower lady.” The story is heart-warming, well-paced and a perfect romantic escape into a world where people work things out instead of accusing and dividing. I really enjoyed the entire story, the well-crafted plot, the characters and the setting. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I am adding this author to my “must read” list.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Amie Denman is the author of more than fifty romance novels offering plenty of laughs and a few happy tears. She writes sweet Heartwarming romances for Harlequin, but also publishes sassy romcoms and small-town love stories. Amie has a B.A. in English Literature and knows all the works of Jane Austen, William Shakespeare, and Virginia Woolf, but she’s most proud of reaching the milestone of twenty books published by Harlequin—the MVP of romance!
Amie lives on the shores of Lake Erie with her husband, sons, extended family, and numerous pets. She loves playing outside, running, and paddle boarding. Her favorite indoor activities are reading and writing (of course!), sewing and crocheting, and playing her antique Steinway grand piano. Connect with Amie on her website: AmieDenman.com
Remembering those who sacrificed everything so we can be free.
Before I share worship songs with you, I just want to add a disclaimer of sorts. I call this post Sunday Worship since Sunday is the day of corporate worship for me. But we should all be worshiping God every day. I’m sure you know that but I wanted to just put it into words to remind myself as well as others.
O Worship the King-Grace Community Church
Great Is the Lord-Michael W. Smith
If you have a favorite worship song, please share it with us. We enjoy worshiping God and declaring that He is worthy!
I remember being lonely and discouraged when I left home for my first teaching job. I didn’t know anyone in the new town, although my boyfriend planned to come visit me there since I was close to the navy base where he was stationed.
One late afternoon as I was unlocking the door to my apartment, the lady who lived next door greeted me with a smile and just chatted with me for a few minutes about what I was doing in the little town and how things were going for me. After that, Verna seemed to arrive home about the same time I did every day, so our conversations got longer as we shared about our lives and what was happening. That day, Verna invited me in, we had a soft drink together and she shared the gospel with me. She wasn’t pushy or demanding. She just shared that Jesus made a difference in her life and He could make a difference in me, too. Then she gave me a copy of The Way Bible and told me to start reading in the Book of John. I remember that it was a Friday night and Harry couldn’t come that weekend for a visit since he was on duty. I must have made my solo dinner as I did every night and then I settled in to watch some TV. Since nothing seemed to interest me, I decided to go to bed and read. I picked up the new book that Verna gave me, found the table of contents, found John and started reading. I read the entire book and then I fell on my knees next to my bed and prayed for God to come into my heart and life and save me. I know that I was crying and had no idea if my prayer would be heard, but as I prayed a peace came over me that I had never felt before, a feeling of being loved and accepted. A virtual stranger shared her story with me and thus began a journey that has lasted over five decades.
But my story doesn’t end there. Verna discipled me, inviting me to go to church with her where the pastor told me about baptism and receiving the Holy Spirit. When Harry came to visit a few weeks later, I told him about my salvation experience and he brushed it off, telling me that I could choose Jesus or him. I don’t remember exactly what I said, but I do know that I told him that if I had to choose, I would choose Jesus because He died for me.
That made Harry start thinking and Verna and her boyfriend Chris invited him to go to church with us. He did, the pastor talked to Harry for hours afterwards and Harry gave his life to Christ. I became a Christian on February 28, 1973; Harry, on March 10 that same year. We got married in April by the pastor of our new church and Verna and Chris came to our wedding, a trip of about five hours for all of them.
Now, my question to you is, who are you going to tell about Christ? With whom will you share your story? You don’t have to be an evangelist or a pastor? You just need to share your story to someone who needs to hear it. The Holy Spirit will go before you and tell you who to tell and then that seed that you plant will start growing, with God’s help. Jesus started with twelve disciples and now there are millions of Christian believers worldwide. We may not believe in the same doctrine, but we are all related to each other, brothers and sisters in Christ. And we all have a unique story that someone needs to hear today.
From Fearful to Fearless (Daily Refresh, 5-21-26)
Think of a time when you were fearful of others. For some, this might look like fearing harm or violence from a specific person or group. But for many of us, we can get sidelined by a different kind of fear…
Maybe you’re worried that someone won’t like you—your personality, your looks, your opinions, or your work.
Maybe you’re afraid that speaking up for what’s right could cost you—your job, your reputation, your comfort.
Maybe you’ve felt misunderstood, and the narrative has gotten twisted—with a little bit of truth and a whole lot of exaggeration. There’s more to the story, but it’s challenging to explain.
Maybe you’re so busy and preoccupied, making sure everyone around you is happy, that you’re neglecting your own life and calling in the process.
Maybe you say “yes” to any and every opportunity or event—because you don’t want to let anyone down, or get left out.
There are many ways in which we might live in fear of others. But the result is always the same: striving for man’s approval leaves us anxious, exhausted, distracted, and disappointed. When we fail to trust God, it shows.
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.”
Proverbs 29:25We cannot trust God if we’re living in a constant state of fear, because fear is the opposite of a faith-fueled trust. God’s approval, after all, is the only approval that matters.
Pleasing God matters more than pleasing people. Being accepted by God matters more than being accepted by people.
The great news is, we don’t have to earn His acceptance! We don’t have to prove that we are worthy of His time, attention, or love. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection did this for us. We are now considered worthy because He is already worthy! When we belong to Jesus, the Holy Spirit helps us to become more like Him.
Acceptance and inclusion from others will never give us the true safety and security we desire. But God’s acceptance of us is unconditional, and it transforms us from the inside out. We simply need to receive Him—allowing His love to change the way we think and act.
As the knowledge of God’s love increases in our lives, the fear of people decreases.
When we trust in God, we can rest in the assurance that we are secure for eternity. We are loved by our gracious Savior. He alone has the power to change the course of our lives.
Take some time to survey your own heart. Are your thoughts, words, and actions a result of fearing man—or trusting God? Consider a few small ways you can begin to place your trust in God rather than living in fear of what others might think.
My Thoughts
I have always been a people-pleaser, much to the detriment of my health and mental well-being at times. I think this deep longing to be accepted stems from my childhood experiences when I was not accepted by my mother. Nothing I did was good enough to win her approval and love. It wasn’t until I accepted Jesus as my Savior, only a few short months after moving away from home and into my own apartment, did I find the love and approval that I had sought my entire life. I still find myself saying “yes” to too many obligations because I don’t anyone to think badly of me. That ends up making me angry at myself at times and exhausted a lot. I am striving to pull back from yes and knowing when I really have to say no, or not right now. God is helping me to understand that there is nothing I can do to lose His love for me since He sees me through the grace and mercy provided via His Son. I could never be good enough for my mom, but I am always good enough for Jesus to have sacrificed Himself for me. There is absolutely no fear in God’s love, only peace and acceptance.
Vickie's Book Nook and Meditation Corner 