Today is the cover reveal for Over the Horizon by Penny Zeller.
About the Book
Series: Horizon Series
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Blurb:
A most unusual proposal…
Alone in 1870s Idaho Territory, Paisley Abbott has nowhere to turn. With no other options, she finds herself consenting to an unconventional, but mutually beneficial agreement.
During an unplanned return to his family’s farm, prodigal Tyler Shepherdson inherits three orphans. When Tyler finds a woman hiding in the back of his wagon, an idea begins to form and he makes a rash decision that results in perhaps one of the most spontaneous marriages of convenience ever.
Despite an unorthodox beginning to their marriage, will Paisley and Tyler trust God as they forge ahead to create a home for three children? Will love arise from a desperate situation?
In the first book in the Horizon Series, travel to the late 1800s to the town of Horizon in the Idaho Territory with a cast of unforgettable characters, journeys of faith, and abundant humor.
Coming soon, the newest series by the author of the Wyoming Sunrise, Love Letters from Ellis Creek, and Montana Skies Christian Historical Romance Series.
CROWN is part of the Jump Into Spring giveaway, which features eight CF books—all of which you could win.
The Jump Into Spring Giveaway runs 5/8 through 5/13. The 1st place winner will receive all eight books (authors’ choice of format) and the 2nd place winner will receive three books (authors’ choice of format) of their choosing. A variety of genres, from fantasy to historical romance to suspense and more, are featured.
Never fear if you don’t have social media–there are author newsletters and blogs you can follow to gain points. Most importantly, for an additional set of points, you have to answer this question: What is your favorite thing about springtime?
Can paper and paw prints draw these two nemeses together?
Author: Penny Zeller
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Age: Adult, although readers 15 and up can read it.
About
Can paper and paw prints draw these two nemeses together?
All Carleigh Adams wants is a relaxing evening. But Sullivan Theodore IV, her wayward shih tzu, has other plans. After escaping from home, Sullivan Theodore unlawfully enters what Carleigh assumes is a stranger’s house via a doggy door. Much to Carleigh’s horror, it is actually the home of her coworker and nemesis, Trey “The Irritating” Montgomery.
Trey Montgomery has had to work with “Quirky Carleigh,” his top competitor for the best articles at The Oakville Daily, for the past two years. It’s safe to say that she and her criminally-minded pet are his adversaries. Trey’s attempts to keep his distance from her are demolished when their boss thrusts them together as The Oakville Daily Duo, forcing them to work as a team on every. Single. Article.
Petty crimes and crazy shenanigans in Oakville soon draw Carleigh and Trey into doubling as detectives. When dogs, including their own pets, begin to mysteriously disappear, Carleigh and Trey join forces to uncover the culprit. As they work to report the daily news and solve the crimes in Oakville, can these two stubborn reporters find love in the headlines?
Faith, plentiful humor, and tender romance round out the latest Christian contemporary romance novel by Author Penny Zeller.
Please note: this book is a faith-based Christian novel.
Rating
5 Stars
Review
How do you survive being forced to work with your nemesis on every. Single. Project?
That’s the question Carleigh Adams is asking…and the question to which she’s desperately seeking an answer.
*** PLOT Crazy shenanigans, a strong-willed Shih Tzu, a chew-happy German Shepherd, and ornery coworkers keep the reader laughing in this fun, lighthearted tale. Romance with a brush of mystery, the reader will be swept into Small Town America where everyone knows everyone else and everyone else’s business…well, most of it.
The plot flowed well and I liked the dollop of mystery. Everything was logical, and the zaniness kept me snickering.
CHARACTERS Staying true to her brand, Zeller incorporates characters you can’t help but love. I identified so much with Carleigh because she is an aspiring writer. Her flamboyant personality contrasted well with Trey’s snarkiness, and the two were absolutely hilarious.
Their pets, too, were perfect. Sullivan Theodore IV is such a brat. I think I’d agree more with Trey when he called the Shih Tzu a fluffy-rat dog. Jaxx is a dear dog, albeit a nervous sort, which also made me laugh because it’s funny to think about a dog belonging to such a big breed that’s portrayed as tough and invincible needing doggy toys to keep him from chewing through Trey’s furniture.
FAITH While lighter than Zeller’s historical novels, Love in the Headlines incorporates prayer, church attendance, and Bible verses.
ROMANCE Perfectly clean. Enemies-to-more is one of my favorite tropes, and Zeller pulls it off perfectly in this Christian rom-com.
CONTENT WARNING This is an extremely clean book. A bloodied nose is mentioned after a fight with Sir. Nasty, and it’s mentioned some dogs are kept in poor conditions, but there is nothing questionable at all.
CONCLUSION I rarely read Christian contemporary, but I was so glad I read this one. If you abhor exercise, all you need to do is pick up Love in the Headlines , and you’ll have dream abs in no time, you’ll laugh that much. This needs to be made into a movie.
Fun and entertaining with canine capers aplenty, Love in the Headlines is a delightful tale you’ll not want to miss.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Today is the cover reveal for Dreams of the Heart by Penny Zeller, which is Book Two in Zeller’s Wyoming Sunrise series. (My review of the prequel, my review of the first book). This is an utterly gorgeous cover, and I think it will fit the story perfectly.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.
Today Penny is a multi-published author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a group fitness instructor. Her desire is to assist and nurture women into a closer relationship with Christ.
When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball.
Penny is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers.
Sometimes the hardest battles take place in the heart.
Poverty and abuse at the hands of her drunkard father leaves Hannah Bane trapped and alone. Without hope, she prays for a miracle just on the off-chance God will hear her. Will the handsome new deputy, who seems to be watching her every move, be Hannah’s one chance to escape the only life she’s ever known?
For as long as he can remember, John Mark Eliason has wanted to be a deputy sheriff. When a job opens in the nearby town of Poplar Springs, he eagerly accepts, but finds his greatest mission won’t be tracking down criminals and bringing justice to the ruthless Wyoming town, but saving a beautiful young woman he barely knows.
Will an unexpected answer to a difficult situation show how love can endure—and even thrive—in an unconventional situation? Or will fear and uncertainty keep two hesitant hearts apart?
In the sequel to Forgotten Memories, author Penny Zeller weaves a tender tale of faith, romance, and humor in a memorable story that reminds us God hears every prayer and has a plan for every life.
*Ignore the two ratings. Those are from vile spammers and trolls who are heaps of manure.
Have you read the other two books in this series yet? And are you excited for John Mark’s story? What are your favorite historical romance tropes? What do you think of the cover? (The topmost graphic is from the book’s A+ content.)
As 2022 wraps up, I thought it would be fun to list out my favorite books, characters, and songs. It proved a nice break from planning the blog’s 2023 schedule.
Not every book and song were released in 2022, although some certainly were. If you think any other category should be included, let me know!
My personal favorite characters in no particular order:
Seven favorite songs from 2022 in no particular order:
Unplanned by Matthew West.
This is a profound prolife song that reminds the listener no child is an accident and is carefully crafted by the Designer. “‘Cause I don’t believe in accidents; miracles they don’t just happen by chance.”
Godless America by About a Mile
This song hits the nail on the head as it touches on a strong prolife message, the wordliness of today’s post-modern churches, and how absurd and vile the “sexual revolution” is. Seriously. Listen to this song.
“Guess survival of the fittest means that babies die, as if a little murder’s gonna burden your life.”
Valley of Death by Skillet
This song echoes Psalm 23. In a world of hopelessness, God is still in control. “Now that I walk through the valley of death, You’re the light to guide me when I’m lost and can’t see.”
King of Kings by Newsboys
This song is amazing. Theologically rich, it covers from Christ’s birth to His resurrection. It’s also new, having released just a few months ago. While I don’t normally like or even laud modern “worship” songs, this one is incredible. The fact that Bart Millard and Michael Tait sing it makes it all the better.
Bonus Point: It can double as a Christmas song.
“Praise the Father, praise the Son, Praise the Holy Spirit, three in one.”
Holding on to You by Carrollton
A good song to listen to during hard times, it reminds us that the end of our rope is not the end of us . Carrolton is an underappreciated band. “When I can’t catch my breath and there’s nothing left to hold on to, I’m holding on to You.”
All In by Matthew West
This song is my theme song for writing. It reminds the listener to approach our calling/life without fear because He is in control. My favorite part is the bridge: “All to You, Jesus, I freely give.”
Your Praise Goes On by Crowder
Technically this is a Christmas song, but I believe it is applicable to every month in the year. I discovered it two weeks ago. “To the ends of the earth let it ring out…Glory to God in the highest.”
What were your 2022 favorites? Have you read any of the books or heard any of the songs on this list? Let me know!
Book: Love’s New Beginnings (Wyoming Sunrise, Prequel)
Author: Penny Zeller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
ABOUT:
Where it all began…
Lydie Beauchamp recently moved with her aunts—sisters Myrtle and Fern—to the untamed Wyoming Territory. When a teaching position in nearby Willow Falls captures her attention, can she leave her aunts, one of whom just suffered a broken heart, and embark on this new adventure? Will she find the courage to persevere in the midst of challenges, one being a handsome challenge named Solomon Eliason?
Reverend Solomon Eliason has the goal of making a difference. Hired as the pastor of Willow Falls, he must convince the congregation that he is able to undertake the role of a reverend. When he’s nominated to be the adult in charge of the annual prank tradition at the school, he embraces the idea, thinking the new teacher will be an elderly crotchety woman like his former teacher. What he doesn’t realize until it’s too late is that the teacher is far from crotchety and elderly.
When Lydie’s and Solomon’s paths cross in an unexpected way during the prank tradition at the Willow Falls school, can Solomon redeem himself in the eyes of the lovely new teacher?
Take a glimpse into where it all began with Lydie and Solomon’s story in this tender tale that reminds us that God can and does use willing hearts for His purposes.
Rating:
5 Stars
Review:
What a sweet beginning to the Wyoming Sunrise series!
Love’s New Beginnings introduces the reader to Lydie and Solomon, who are integral secondary characters in the novel, Forgotten Memories. Following Zeller’s customary writing style of faith, humor, and romance, the reader is treated to a novella that will repeatedly make them go, “awww!”
The characters are darling. I empathized with Lydie and Solomon is just a sweetheart. I enjoyed learning about how their arcs were formed and how they were molded into the way they are in FM. There is a well-formed string of secondary characters too. Some will make you snort in amusement. Others will have you eyeing them and wondering if they’ll ever come around. And there are a few who will make you want to crack a slate over their heads Anne-of-Green-Gables style.
The plot is sweet. We follow Lydie and Solomon through a hilarious misunderstanding, their insecurities, and their attempts to settle into a Wild West town.
The setting is well-done too. I could picture myself on the stagecoach (though I was grateful I wasn’t actually on the stagecoach), at the school, in the town, and so forth.
CONCLUSION: In short, Love’s New Beginnings is a tender, gentle, faith-filled romance that will sweep the reader into the world of two uncertain characters and the captivating Wyoming Sunrise series.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed herein are my own.
It’s giveaway time once again, and this time, you have the opportunity to win IRON along with these other fantastic books in the Stockingful of Books giveaway.
About Stockingful: This giveaway runs 11/6 through 11/12, and the prize consists of ten Christian books. The 1st place winner will receive all ten books (authors’ choice of format) and the 2nd place winner will receive three books (authors’ choice of format) of their choosing. A variety of genres, from fantasy to historical romance to suspense and more, are featured.
Never fear if you don’t have social media–there are author newsletters and blogs you can follow to gain points as well as share about the newsletter for bonus points (if you don’t want to try copying and pasting all the information, you can simply provide the link to this blog post). Most importantly, for an addition set of points, you have to answer this question: What’s your favorite Christmas carol/song?
Also, who loves fairytale retellings? More specifically, The Snow Queen retellings? If you do, then I have an exciting opportunity for you.
I have joined with five other authors, including Kendra E. Ardnek and Sarah Pennington, to bring you a fabulous lineup of some chillingly awesome (yes, yes, I know; poor pun) fairytale retellings. So if you’re a reader who enjoys fairytale retellings or a blogger or bookstagramer who’d like to participate and be entered to win the Grand Prize, go here to learn more about the ARCS and Release Tour. You can interview characters and authors, post snippets, spotlight, and more. We’d love to have you!
Here are the covers. (Mine is the third from the right. Isn’t it pretty?)
Did you enter Stockingful of Books? If so, which book(s) would you most like to win? Also, which of these beautiful covers catches your eye the most?
Lives in jeopardy. A race against time. Will mistrust prove fatal for all involved?
Happy Release day to Freedom’s Flight.
Author: Penny Zeller
Genre: Historical Christian Romance
Length: Novella
About:
Annalise Van Houten knows what it’s like to live in an oppressive situation. Sent to live with her conniving aunt and uncle in Ridge Gap, Tennessee after her parents die, she dreads the plans they have for her future. When she discovers the handsome Reverend Matthias Sorenson assisting runaway slaves, can Annalise convince him to allow her to help?
Reverend Matthias Sorenson has a heart for serving others—and freeing them. An integral part of the Faith Train, he helps free slaves. When a beautiful newcomer to his church wishes to partake in the organization, can he trust her not to endanger their lives?
Lives in jeopardy. A race against time. Will mistrust prove fatal for all involved?
Rating:
5 Stars
Review:
I enjoy books near and during the Civil War time frame, and Freedom’s Flight was no exception. Zeller created a sweet, suspenseful, and intriguing novella that captures the reader’s attention from the first page.
The characters were perfect for their roles. I enjoyed how Matthias, though a reverend, was shown to be human–he had his flaws and struggles just like the rest of us. And Annalise was so sweet and tender. The villains are well-written as well: chilling, evil, and just downright nasty. It was so easy to love the protagonists and loathe the antagonists.
Setting-wise, it was easy to picture myself in Ridge Gap, at the plantation, and riding through the forest with the characters. Zeller does well creating time and place.
The plot is quick-paced given how the book is a novella, and the faith elements are, as usual when it comes to Zeller’s books, exceptional.
What I also really appreciated was how Zeller illustrated that good and bad exist in all shades. We’re all human and are fallen, sinful messes no matter how much melanin our skin possesses. One particular shade of skin doesn’t make someone good, just as it does not make someone bad. This was realistically portrayed, something I haven’t seen a lot of Civil War books achieve.
Freedom’s Flight is a captivating novella you won’t want to miss.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
Today I am posting the reveal of a prequel for one of my favorite historical romance series: Wyoming Sunrise by Penny Zeller.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Take a glimpse into where it all began with Lydie and Reverend Solomon’s story in this tender novella releasing just in time for Christmas.
If you loved Forgotten Memories and you’re anticipating Dreams of the Heart, travel to the Wyoming Territory where new beginnings abound in the town of Willow Falls.
Today I am spotlighting Forgotten Memories by Penny Zeller. To read my review of this lovely, tender story, go here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics. Today, Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a fitness instructor.
When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, cycling, gardening, and playing volleyball.
She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website www.pennyzeller.com and her blog, random thoughts from a day in the life of a wife, mom, and author, at www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com.
The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile.
Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk?
Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?
Forgotten Memories is an amazing beginning to what I believe will be a beautiful and touching series. In fact, Book Two is already available for preorder. (On a preorder special for $0.99–check out that cover, too.) If you’re looking for a sweet, Christian historical romance set in Wyoming (finally! There aren’t enough Wyoming books out there.), you need to read Forgotten Memories.
Madi's Musings 