Threads of Red Review

About the Book

 "Red Riding Hood" meets "Goldilocks" in this sweeping fairy-tale retelling where love, jealousy, and magic collide.

Red Grimshaw has sworn to protect her younger sister, Kristell, not only from the poverty that plagues their family but also from their mother's cold ambition, which treats the sisters as nothing more than marriage bargaining chips.

But when Kristell flees her unwanted betrothal into the forbidden deep woods, she is bitten by an ice snake and falls into a deathlike sleep. Red has no choice but to venture into the cursed forest to find her grandmother--a conjurer who might be the only one who can save Kristell from death.

Armed with only her grandmother's enchanted red cloak--alive with its own mysterious magic--Red quickly discovers that the woods are a place where wolves howl, bears roam, and the trees themselves respond to magic's call. Joined by both her rival, Goldi Martin, and the boy they both love, Carrigan Woods, Red's path is quickly tangled with jealousy, secrets, and impossible choices.

As time ticks away for Kristell, Red and her friends must reach Grandmother's house before the night of conjures, when the woods are filled with magical beasts intent on hunting down any intruders.

In a world where conjurers are feared and love can be both a blessing and a curse, Red must learn that every spell has a cost, every heart hides a truth, and bravery is written in threads of red. (Goodreads)

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My Thoughts

I really wanted to like this story but I really couldn't get into it. I didn't like any of the characters was the main issue. The story idea is fun and the combination of two fairy tale retellings is a great idea! The ending shows some of the characters redeemable qualities but at that point I honestly wasn't too interested. The romance is okay but it did take me a little off guard at the start of the story. All that to say, I think many others will enjoy this one. It just wasn't for me. 

Two Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

When Winter Came to Dunn Cottage

About the Book

 A stranger is wearing her missing father's coat.

And he isn't saying why…

The last place Rosalyn Snow expects to find her father's coat is beneath Exeter's old Exe Bridge.

Especially not on the back of a man fleeing the police.

Convinced the stranger holds the truth she’s spent years searching for, Rosalyn brings him home for Christmas. But Simon avoids giving answers, and what little he reveals only deepens the mystery.

As Dunn House fills with glittering guests, whispered ambitions, and holiday celebration, Simon moves through society as though he belongs there... yet he’s just as at home among the vagrants on the docks. And when Simon’s carefully guarded past reaches Dunn House during the Twelfth Night celebration, the fragile peace of the estate begins to unravel.

What has become of her father?

And who is the man wearing his coat?

Bringing Simon Balfour home might unravel Christmas.

Discovering who he is will make it unforgettable.

The House on the Edge of the Cliff series tells interconnected stories across generations, where one house on the Cornish coast holds secrets that echo through time. (Amazon)

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My Thoughts

Get swept away to the Cornish coast in this delightful short story. I tend to avoid novellas simply because I always want more or I don't feel like the plot can be well developed in a novella. BUT there are few authors that I make the exception for because they are really talented and can wrap up an exquisite plot in only a few chapters. Joanna Davidson Politano is one of those authors and I really enjoyed this book! I felt like I was right there at Dunn cottage or there on the coast in winter wrapped in a warm coat. The romance is so sweet and felt genuine even with only having a few pages. I loved the mystery that weaves through until the end and I was surprised with how everything was tied up. This is truly a cozy quick read and I highly recommend! But also-I do want more of this place and these people please!  

While this book is tied to a previous novel by this author, it can be read entirely on its own. 

Four stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Books on My Fall 2026 To-Read List

Top Ten Tuesday 

 Oh my there are so many books on my list this fall! Here are just a few I am excited to read! 

What are you reading this fall? 

Lemon Tea and Library Dragons by Emma St. Clair

When The Labyrinth Sleeps by Victoria McCombs

The Second Chance Trailer Park by Katie Powner

To Educate an Earl by Gabrielle Meyer

In These Hills by Tamera Alexander 

The Sisterhood of Unlikely Friends by Sara Brunsvold

The Resurrection of Evania James by Jaime Jo Wright

A Marriage by the Sea by Jody Hedlund 

Every Given Day by Cathy Gohlke 

Belle's Christmas Carol by Michelle Griep

Authors I’ve Met

Top Ten Tuesday

Authors I've Met

 I have been extremely fortunate to meet so many wonderful authors that I love. It is always a JOY! If you ever get the opportunity to meet your favorites-do it! I started going to different book events in 2016 and I just so happened to meet Janette Oke at the Hearties Family Reunion in 2016 as well. 

Kim Duffy

Jessica Patch

Joanna Davidson Politano

Jaime Jo Wright

Gabrielle Meyer

        Amanda Cox

Laura Frantz

Janette Oke

Susan May Warren

Katie Ganshert (K.E. Ganshert) 

Becky Wade

As Luck Would Have It

 

About the Book

Sometimes the greatest adventure is the one you never planned. A trip to Ireland, a meddling sister, and a handsome stranger might be exactly what it takes to find yourself again.

After her divorce, Grace Moreau has her life neatly contained. She's built a safe, predictable world for herself and her daughters, and she has no interest in stepping outside of it. But her younger sister, Romy, has other plans. Whisked away on a surprise trip to Ireland, Grace is forced to let go of control. Her adventure begins at the legendary Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, where she meets August Kincaid, a cynical screenwriter with writer's block and striking blue eyes. He's supposed to be finding inspiration for a romance he has no interest in writing, and Grace is supposed to be finding . . . well, she's not quite sure what.

As Romy's carefully planned "side quests" send them through the lush Irish countryside--from the windswept Cliffs of Moher to the cobblestone streets of Galway--an unlikely friendship blossoms between Grace and August. He tags along, claiming a need for a change of scenery, but their shared explorations and late-night talks start to feel like something more. Surrounded by ancient castles and rolling green hills, Grace finds herself slowly shedding her carefully constructed walls. She didn't want an intervention, and she certainly wasn't looking for love.

Forced to live in the moment, Grace discovers a strength she'd forgotten she had and a connection she never expected. But as her journey through Ireland continues, she must confront her deepest fears. Can she get back on the horse after a fall? More importantly, can she take the ultimate risk and open her heart to the one adventure she has always falling in love? (Goodreads)

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My Thoughts

I will be honest in saying this isn't a book I would typically seek out BUT I love books set in Ireland so I was hopeful. I also wanted to try reading this author again because it has been a long time since I have read any of her books. So all that to say that I really enjoyed this story. The main character is in her forties, divorced, and single and has been struggling. It is nice to read about characters who have already lived some life and aren't twenty something looking for love. It was refreshing to just read a sweet, and at times silly, romance set in beautiful Ireland. I had no clue there was a matchmaking festival and it is actually a real thing! What!? I laughed multiple times while reading. I do also wish that August's back story was fleshed out just a tad more because we only got glimpses and there seemed to be a lot more there. The ending goes really fast and seems a little disjointed BUT there is not a third act breakup! Yay!!! 

If you enjoy clean romance this is a great book to pick up! 

Four stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

High Exposure Review

About the Book

 The riveting start to an adventure-driven romantic suspense series from a debut author

Determined travel blogger Julia Stevens is on her final assignment in snowy Silverberg, Colorado. She's running from her past-and God-but the charm of small-town life brings little comfort when she's face-to-face with the winter sport that killed her skiing. Upon her arrival in town, she discovers a dead body and is compelled to research the situation, give justice to the man's story, and kick off her new career in journalism.

Cade Haskins is back home after a failed mission and his subsequent retirement from the DEA. His father's declining health has pushed Cade to prioritize family, and he helps at the historic Silverberg Hotel on his dad's behalf. When Julia shows up at the hotel, Cade becomes her local contact. He quickly realizes she has a knack for sniffing around where she shouldn't, and he attaches himself to her side.

With the local death connected to a meth ring, Julia's investigation has unknowingly put a target on her back. As the danger increases and she begins to learn more about Cade and his family, she finds herself trusting the God she was running from. And Cade? He doesn't want to get dragged back into DEA work, but it seems like he may not have a choice if he wants to protect Julia . . . and his growing attraction to her. (Goodreads)

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

I am always up for a new suspense read and the cover and setting of this novel captured my interest. I grew up in Colorado so I enjoy reading books in that setting. I also love that this book is set during the winter! The first few chapters had me pretty interested. The meet cute is fun and the different winter activities were good additions. There is a drug ring situation that Julia somewhat stumbles in on without even realizing it and Cade happens to have worked with the DEA. So there is plenty of suspense because the reader knows what is happening but Julia does not. About half way through I was getting a little bit or a lot irritated with Julia and Cade. I really didn't want to but the complete foolish way that Julia goes about investigating and posting things on social media drove me up the wall. The romance is sweet and not the main plot which was good but I just didn't love it. The second part of the book just moved a little slow for me with it being suspense. I really wanted to love this story but it ended up being just an okay read. I think many others will love it and I will happily read this author's next novel, this one just wasn't for me.  

Three Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishers. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Song of the Khan

About the Book

 What if saving your kingdom cost your true love's soul?

Former gravedigger Rigan North is used to being surrounded by death and loss, but her husband's capture by an enemy king brings her and the rebellion she's inspired to breaking point. Corcoran's only hope for surviving King Radek's dungeons is his treacherous magice mother. But Lady Jhoselyn and Radek both want Rigan dead-if the Shro Khan don't claim her soul first.

Now king regent, Soren fights to hold his failing kingdom together and protect those he cares about from the monsters who unexpectedly reversed his curse. But the price to save Jardia and banish his curse permanently is the life of the woman he loves, and even if she's willing to make that exchange, Soren most certainly isn't.

As the Twin Kingdoms descend into deeper darkness, Rigan, Isel, Corcoran, and Soren grapple with new revelations that they may not be the ones to save their home from destruction. Their only hope is the echoes of an ancient Song, the sole antidote to the Shro Khan's siren call...but to learn its notes will require conquering the weakness at the very heart of their souls. (Amazon)

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My Thoughts

I have really loved this series and have you seen this cover!? Stunning! This is book three and you just absolutely have to start with the first in the series. Each book builds on the other and has a cliffhanger so there is a lot going on. I would say this third novel ties up a lot of things but it is clear there is more to come and thankfully there is another book coming out next year! I really struggled with Rigan's character in this one and I didn't feel quite as invested with her plot. I was very curious what would happen with Soren and Isel simply because that is where book two left us. There is a lot of uncertainty happening within this book so at times it seemed to be drawn out, like a bit of the same thing happening over and over again. There was forward motion and the ending is great but in the middle it did move a bit slow for me. BUT I still love these characters and even the secondary ones, of whom there is a wonderful surprise in this story that you won't see coming! I am eager to read book four because I have no idea how everything will get wrapped up. Highly recommend!! 

Four Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review." 

The Making of a Mad Woman

About the Book

 She built an advertising empire on Madison Avenue. Then she walked away . . .

Manhattan, 1962. Josephine "Jo" Carmichael is the fashion world's reigning It Girl on the runways of Europe until she's forced back to New York for her estranged father's funeral. When she discovers his prestigious Madison Avenue ad agency is drowning in debt, Jo shocks everyone by wowing the board of directors and succeeding him as the new CEO. Branded "the boss's daughter" in a male-dominated industry, Jo must outwit her "Mad Men" rivals with a female team, win back major accounts, and prove she's more than just a pretty face--before her family's legacy goes up in smoke.

Present day, Port Huron, MI. Alex Carmichael has always lived in the shadow of her legendary grandmother, who once ruled the New York advertising world before mysteriously abandoning it for a quiet life running a flower shop in a lakeside Michigan town. Now, as Alex puts her own dreams on hold to care for her sharp-tongued, aging Gran, Jo makes one final, unexpected request that turns both of their worlds upside she insists on a return trip to New York.

With both of their futures in the balance, grandmother and granddaughter must come to terms with the truth behind Jo's sudden departure from the fast-paced world of a Manhattan C-suite all those years ago, and discover that ambition, sacrifice, love, and legacy are never simple.

Spanning decades from the Golden Age of advertising to today, The Making of a Mad Woman is a sweeping story of reinvention, family, and the courage it takes--for any generation of women--to claim the life they truly want. (Goodreads)

Releases February 9, 2027

Pre-Order Here

My Thoughts

This book surprised me in so many ways! After the first three chapters I was totally hooked and I loved how the dual timelines were written. This author is so talented and there are many little details in this story that are special. I have never watched Mad Men so I truly had no expectations at all in that regard. I enjoyed the 60s era and felt like I was really there in New York with them. Rarely do I love both timelines, but in this book I really did! I was excited to jump back and forth and there is a little hint of a mystery that is tied up in the end. There is clean romance but there is so much more within the pages of this story. The characters all have something hard to work through and several times I teared up. I just loved everything about this story and it is one of my favorites of the year.  

I highly recommend! 

Five stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Winter's Dawn Review

About the Book

Book: Winter’s Dawn (The Nordic Wars Book 3)

Author: Morgan L. Busse

Release Date: August 11, 2026

Genre: Viking fantasy (adult)

Fearless. Defender. Shield Maiden.

Brighid returns to the Nordic forces. But she is not alone. Her newfound companion accompanies her, along with Kaeden, the Eldaran Truthsayer. Together, they approach the battlefield, powered by a unique bond forged since their first encounter.

Yet a dark and menacing presence grows within Brighid’s mind. Her connection to death has returned, and this time, there is no oath to numb the terror. Will she be able to fight and protect her people while sensing the reaper of life?

Kaeden’s recent conflict with one of the Shadonae has left scars across both his body and soul. Still, he is determined to finish what he has started and free both the Nordic people and the world of this great evil. To do so, he may have to sacrifice everything to reach the one who has bound the Nordic people to this deadly war.

Kaeden will need Brighid’s help. But when he reveals the truth behind the dreams they have shared, Brighid must make a choice that could change not only her future but the fate of her people: accept the bond between them or let it fade―and lose him along with it.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of the FOLLOWER OF THE WORD series, THE SOUL CHRONICLES, and THE RAVENWOOD SAGA. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and winner of both the INSPY and the Carol Award for best in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.

 

 

 

 

More from Morgan

What we do today will determine the ending to our story.” -Gurmund, Winter’s Dawn

 

Legacy. I don’t think many people think about legacy. At least not until they start facing the end of their lives. So, what is legacy? One definition I found is something handed down from one generation to the next. I like this definition because it can be so many things. It can be wisdom, stewardship, an example of a life lived with integrity, leaving the world a better place, peace, and even hope. Perhaps another way to say it is legacy is living with the future of the next generation in mind.

The quote up above is from the last book in my Viking-inspired fantasy series, The Nordic Wars. In Winter’s Dawn, the leaders of the Nordic people are facing two impossible choices, both that will most likely cost their nation everything. Then the end comes. Discouraged, Brighid feels all hope is lost. But Gurmund reminds her that even if they lose everything, and their people cease to be no more, it still mattered how they finished.

They would leave hope and light for the next generation.

This is how I want to live. I once told my husband that I don’t think we will ever know the legacy we leave behind, because it will be spoken about after we are gone. But the choices I make today and the life I live, will determine the ending I leave behind for others to read. I want that ending to be full of hope and light so that when the next generation faces darkness, they will remember they are not alone and those who went before them.

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, August 27

To Everything There Is A Season, August 28

Artistic Nobody, August 29 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, August 30 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Corner, August 31

Texas Book-aholic, September 1

Fiction Book Lover, September 2 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, September 3 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 4

Wishful Endings, September 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 5 (Spotlight)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 5

For the Love of Literature, September 6 (Author Interview)

Devoted Steps, September 7

Labor Not in Vain, September 8

Simple Harvest Reads, September 9 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Morgan 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.

GIVEAWAY

My Thoughts

Just like that~ a trilogy is complete. I have grown to love these characters and I really should have gone back and re-read the first two books. These must be read in order! This third book picks up right where book two left us. Brighid and Kaeden have a lot to accomplish but they are finally back in the same location with each other. There are a lot of details in this novel and leading up to the final chapter. The author adds more to this super slow burn romance and honestly it felt pretty rushed to tie up the final strings. Personally, I would have rather seen this grow more throughout the entire series because that makes a more believable love story in my mind but that is just my opinion. I still enjoyed it overall! Kaeden is my favorite in this trilogy and I really loved reading his character grow in this book. The ending is well written and makes a nice conclusion. I have really enjoyed this trilogy and highly recommend it and the Follower of the Word series by the same author. 

Four Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."