Can't Wait for... Carnival Fantástico by Angela Montoya (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #CarnivalFantástico #AngelaMontoya #yalit #yabooks #fantasy

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I apologize about not posting last week! I had family in town staying with us and with all the craziness, I didn't get my post done. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and will have a fabulous start to 2026!

This upcoming release reminds me a bit of The Night Circus, which is still a book that has stayed with me years later and was so unique. I don't have expectations that this will be like that book, but it is reminiscent and sounds intriguing. It's my pick this week...

Carnival Fantástico

By Angela Montoya

YA Fantasy, Romance

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 464 Pages

February 3, 2026 by Joy Revolution

Summary

“Witty, charming, and a little sinister, this is a real showstopper.” —Allison Saft, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Wings of Starlight

An unputdownable romantasy following a young woman posing as fortune-teller at a magical traveling carnival, where the handsome boy who once broke her heart resurfaces and warns her that the carnival is more sinister than it appears.

Welcome to the Carnival Fantástico, a spectacle of magic and mischief, and the perfect haven for a runaway. Using her tricks and razor-sharp wit, Esmeralda becomes the carnival's resident fortune-teller, aiming for the lead role in the Big Top Show. Success would mean freedom from her former employer, the commander of the King’s army.

Ignacio has defected from the army and is on the hunt for evidence of his father’s corruption. But the last thing he expects to find on his father’s trail of lies is the only girl he's ever loved, spinning false fortunes at a traveling carnival.

Perhaps fortune has thrown them together for a reason. They strike a deal: she’ll help him expose his father if he helps her secure the main act. But old feelings don’t die easily, and the commander’s secret isn’t the only thing they'll need to confront.

(Affiliate links included.)

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Will you be reading this one?

Can't Wait for... Edge of Truth by Janice Cantore (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #EdgeofTruth #JaniceCantore #suspense #cleanreads @Crazy4Fiction

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I've been a fan of this author for some time. She writes compelling suspense with great characters who are usually in law enforcement. I can't wait for her newest to come up in my reading queue! It's my pick this week...

Edge of Truth

By Janice Cantore

Contemporary Romantic Suspense, Thriller

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 352 Pages

February 17, 2026 by Tyndale Fiction

Summary

One case almost destroyed her career. Now the past seems to have caught up with her. And as a high-stakes game of truth and lies unfolds, someone’s out for retribution at any cost.

As a detective in the Long Beach Police Department’s violent crimes division, Lainie Jensen is no stranger to hard-to-crack cases and unusual disappearances, but then her sister Evie vanishes on a trip to Hawaii. After traveling there to look for her, Lainie quickly realizes her brother-in-law Stan is telling law enforcement a story that doesn’t appear to add up.

FBI special agent Ben Isaacs has spent six months collecting evidence to take down a money laundering operation. While his fellow agent Efren Gomez goes undercover to infiltrate the ring, Ben investigates those connected to it, including Stan Moffitt, who Ben believes could help lead to the criminal kingpin. Then Stan’s wife goes missing just days after Ben contacted her seeking information, and he knows there’s more to this case, especially when he loses contact with Efren and law enforcement comes up short in their search for him.

When Ben’s and Lainie’s investigations converge, Lainie’s not eager to work alongside Ben given their complicated history, but she’s willing to do so if it means figuring out what Stan knows and locating Evie. Soon, Lainie can’t deny Ben’s dedication to finding the truth or her growing admiration for him. And the more the two examine the evidence, the more they suspect Evie’s disappearance is tied to a highly publicized criminal case from Lainie’s past . . . and someone is playing a perilous game aimed at personal revenge.

- Great for fans of thrillers by Lynette Eason, Colleen Coble, and Allison Brennan
- Police procedural featuring a detective and an FBI agent written by a former police officer
- Clean, stand-alone romantic suspense novel filled with high stakes, edge-of-your-seat adventure, elements of mystery, and themes of fighting for justice
- Includes discussion questions for book clubs

(Affiliate links included.)

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Will you be reading this one?

A futuristic sci-fi with an underdog heroine... Maxine Justice: Public Offender by Daniel Schwabauer (Review & #Giveaway) #MaxineJustice #DavielSchwabauer #bookx #scifibooks #newbooks @celebrate_lit @enclavebooks

Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review and enter the giveaway below...

Maxine Justice: Public Offender 

(Maxine Justice #2)

By Daniel Schwabauer

Science Fiction, Dystopian

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 256 Pages

November 4, 2025 by Enclave Publishing

Summary

The case she didn’t need. The client she didn’t want. The trial she couldn’t win.

Fresh off her single-handed defense against alien adversaries in a galactic courtroom, Maxine Justice discovers that saving the Earth is not enough to earn a hero’s welcome back home. Once again broke and now looking for revenge, her return to night court as a public defender takes an immediate detour when she’s tasked with defending a Therapod murder suspect.

The case drags her into the quirky theories of her new client, Father Gilbert Barthes, and the corrupt underbelly of corporate robotics. As her defense takes on global significance, Maxine lands squarely in the crosshairs of new enemies determined to conceal their plans for acquiring the planet. Worse, her probably guilty client may be the only one who can expose what’s really happening.

Stripped of all credibility and most of her friends, can Maxine find some way to save humanity when the world is bent on self-destruction? Or will Earth finally succumb to the most unlikely deception?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

MAXINE JUSTICE: PUBLIC OFFENDER is book two in this futuristic series set on earth where the heroine is a down-on-her-luck attorney with plenty of sarcasm. Fans of unique world building, relatable characters and intriguing plots will find much to enjoy as this series continues.

You almost feel like you're reading or watching one of the classic detective shows except the main character is an attorney and it's set in a futuristic world. The author's unique imagination comes through in this world with humans, androids, and aliens. Then there's the main character, Maxine Justice, who is so every-day relatable with her wit and sarcasm. There are also a handful of interesting side characters. Maxine got mixed up in a case in the first book that she's still recovering from, and doesn't realize that she's still in it and digging deeper. I enjoy the underlying suspense and mystery in all the books I've read by this author and that is very present here. The plot steadily weaves its way and the reader finds things out as Maxine does (so you experience her story instead of being told it), with plenty of red herrings in the mix. I also like how Max thinks so little of herself, but honestly keeps getting herself into these situations where it shows she has quite a bit of mettle and integrity. There's some intensity and danger to this story as well with a climatic ending with a courtroom finish. I'm very curious what the author is working up for book three!

In the end, was it what I wished for? If you're a fan of sci-fi with relatable characters, a unique world, interesting plots, and no romance, then this is definitely a series to check out!

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to my review.)

About the Author

Daniel Schwabauer, ThD, teaches English at MidAmerica Nazarene University and writes award-winning fantasy and science fiction novels. His professional work includes textbooks, stage plays, radio scripts, short stories, newspaper columns, comic books, scripting for the PBS animated series Auto-B-Good, and theology. He earned an MA in creative writing under science fiction legend James Gunn and completed his doctoral work in semiotic theology with Leonard Sweet. He lives in Olathe, Kansas, with his wife and dogs.

More from the Author (from Maxine Justice)

I tend to get three questions from people who only know me from the Night Court Channel or watching my defense of planet Earth on the global broadcast that made me famous. To the first, no, I haven’t seen a penny of the money I’m owed because the feds froze ALL of my bank accounts, even my personal savings. Second, traveling in a space-egg with a pastoroid was not as terrifying as it sounds—except that I had no way to escape Counselor Singh’s dad jokes. And third, no, even though my cat is still missing, I do not want one of your kittens, thank you very much.

Maxine Justice, LLC is your only source for first-hand legal advice pertaining to extraterrestrial medical malpractice, predatory off-world time-sharing contracts, and “surprise implants” experiences at the Coliseum.

We’re also the only law firm committed to exposing what’s really happening in the world of artificial humans.

Ever wondered how Counselor Singh could be targeted on the steps of the UN building during a heavily-covered press conference, yet six months later law enforcement still claims they have no idea who the shooter was? Doesn’t it seem odd that they turned the forensic evidence over to Singh’s manufacturer instead of using a neutral third party?

If I were an artificial person, I’d be screaming these questions from the rooftop. Yet we haven’t heard a peep from that community since it happened.

That’s not some wild conspiracy. That’s fear.

Which is where I come in.

If you’re a TheraPod concerned about your future in a world spiraling out of control— if you’re a pastoroid, a rabbot, a podre, an e-mam, a surgicon EZ Doc, or any other model of artificial person and you face a legal dilemma involving your own termination and/or the fate of biological humans, give me a call.

If you’re a regular human and you’ve been railroaded by York City’s legal system, targeted by ruthless corporate bullies, or victimized by inhuman—and I do mean not-at-all-human—business practices, talk to me.

I’m not in it for the money.

I don’t have any!

I’m in it for my name—for Justice.

And I promise you this: I won’t smile until you do.

Tour Schedule

Simple Harvest Reads, December 13 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 14 (Spotlight)

Artistic Nobody, December 15 (Author Interview)

Wishful Endings, December 15

Blossoms and Blessings, December 16 (Spotlight)

Texas Book-aholic, December 17

Fiction Book Lover, December 18 (Author Interview)

A Reader’s Brain, December 19 (Spotlight)

Blogging With Carol, December 19

Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 20

For the Love of Literature, December 21 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 22

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 23 (Spotlight)

Stories By Gina, December 24 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, December 25 (Spotlight)

Books Less Travelled, December 26 (Spotlight)

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Daniel 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.

ENTER HERE

Have you read any other stories like this? Have you read the first book in this series or any of the author's other books?

Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this Regency suspense... Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen (Review) #newbooks #bookx #WhispersatPainswickCourt #JulieKlassen #christfic #histfic #historicalmystery #historicalsuspense #cleanreads @Julie_Klassen @austenprose

Whispers at Painswick Court

By Julie Klassen

Historical Suspense, Romance, Inspirational

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 368 Pages

December 2, 2025 by Bethany House Publishers

Summary

She expected her return to Painswick would bring memories of the past--not danger and romance.

Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place where she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year.

Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sickroom nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid. Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own.

As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her resolution to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real culprit--and protect her heart--before it's too late?

Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this compelling Regency-era novel laced with intrigue, love, and English village charm for fans of historical romance and whodunit mysteries.

(Affiliate links included.)

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My Review

WHISPERS AT PAINSWICK COURT has a slight Gothic feel to it as the heroine cares for an ailing gentlewoman in a great English house. The heroine is easy to like with some other interesting characters who may or may not be trustworthy. The suspense steadily unfolds with a climatic ending that fans of the genre will enjoy!

There were several little nods to Austen and Northanger Abbey in this story, which I found very fun. Then there was this small group of characters who gave a slight feel of Agatha Christie's style. The mix was interesting and definitely kept me turning the pages. The suspense was fairly steady and underlying for most of the book. The heroine wasn't exactly sure what was happening and if she was imagining sinister intent. Then towards the end, the suspense intensifies with plenty of danger and a few chills.

I liked the characters in this story. Anne is unsure of herself in so many ways, but is an intelligent, responsible woman with her own dreams and expectations. The cousins at the estate, two of which I liked, all have their different personalities and are well drawn. Lady Celia is a bit of a cranky old lady, but she grows on you. Each doctor has his own role to play as does Anne's old family friend and the maid who cares for Lady Celia. There are some complex relationships, some sweet and some not. There is also a budding romance that is weaved throughout the story. I liked that it wasn't the main focus and that Anne coming to her own truths in many ways was. The story felt genuine in Anne's character development and in the sweet ending.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an overall enjoyable suspense, more on the light side but with some intensity towards the end. There's a motley crew of characters, a likable heroine, and sweet romance with a touch of inspirational elements. Recommended to fans of the author and genre.

Content: Some violence but clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

What was the last historical mystery/suspense you read? Would you recommend it?

Can't Wait for... Track of Courage by Susan May Warren (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #TrackofCourage #CalloftheWild #SusanMayWarren #suspense #romancebooks #christfic

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I have a confession to make. I'm pretty much addicted to this author's books. She has great characters, sweet romance that usually has plenty of humor, and hold-on-to-your-seat suspense. They're unputdownable and I usually need to binge an entire series at once. Her upcoming release is my pick this week...

Track of Courage

(Call of the Wild #1)

By Susan May Warren

Christian Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages

January 6, 2026 by Revell

Summary

A hijacked plane. A pursuing killer. And a K9's instinct to help them make it out alive.

Pop singer Keely Williams's search for her biological mother in Alaska has been painfully unsuccessful. Now she just wants to escape this wild frontier and never look back. But when her plane is hijacked, she's suddenly plunged into a race against not only an Alaskan blizzard but also a killer who's on her tail.

After a career-ending injury, ex-cop Dawson Mulligan has only one friend--Caspian, the stray dog he adopted. Dawson just wants to figure out how to get his life on track, but during a flight home to Copper Mountain, he spots a downed plane and stops to help. Except, when his not-a-rescue dog runs off into the woods and discovers the trail of a missing survivor, it's up to the former cop to stage a rescue.

But Dawson has no idea he's being pulled into a deadly pursuit, or that Caspian is more than he seems. There might be redemption and second chances waiting for both Dawson and Keely if they have the courage to face their wounded pasts and fight for their future.

Join master storyteller Susan May Warren for a propulsive ride through the Alaskan wilderness, where love might be the riskiest--and most rewarding--adventure of all.

Prepare to experience edge-of-your-seat action combined with heart-stirring romance and heroic K9 companions in this exhilarating romantic suspense that will thrill fans of Lynette Eason and Elizabeth Goddard.

(Affiliate links included.)

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Will you be reading this one?

A modern Pride & Prejudice story... Not Exactly Mr. Darcy by Carolyn Miller (Review) #newbooks #bookx #NotExactlyMrDarcy #TheSilverTeapotSeries #CarolynMiller #BarbourFiction #romancebooks #cleanreads #christianromance @austenprose

Not Exactly Mr. Darcy

(The Silver Teapot Series #1)

By Carolyn Miller

Contemporary Christian Romance, Clean & Wholesome

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 256 Pages

December 1, 2025 by Barbour Fiction

Summary

Pride, Pemberley, and Second Chances

When history-loving Olivia Bennett’s teaching contract isn’t renewed, she is considered her family’s logical choice to care for her ailing grandmother in a tiny English village. While there, she soon finds additional work at nearby Hartbury Hall—one of England’s great houses once used as Pemberley in a filmed production of Pride and Prejudice. The head gardener there, however, proves to be anything but the gentlemanly hero of that famous book. Little does she know that behind Liam Browne’s brusque exterior is both a family tragedy and a legacy that demands truth and honor, creating a crisis that only Liv’s vivacious determination can resolve. Along the way, she may just learn that appearances count for naught. . .and that love can be found in unexpected ways.

(Affiliate links included.)

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My Review

NOT EXACTLY MR. DARCY takes readers to a charming English town and a struggling estate that was famously used in a Pride and Prejudice film. Full of small-town quirks, delightful townspeople, one rather gruff gardener, a troublesome dog, complex family, and a girl trying to find what path God has for her makes for an endearing story. Fans of Austen's Pride and Prejudice will find some similarities in this story and will delight in how the author makes this tale completely her own!

Olivia is easy to love as the heroine of this story. She has some quirky, over-the-top caring family members and escapes to her equally quirky grandmother in England. The town and its people are so charming, as is the manor caretaker even though first impressions, and second, and third... seem otherwise. There is a nice bit of humor throughout and some lovely relationships that develop. I most loved the back and forth between Olivia and Liam and their delightfully sweet romance. I also enjoyed Olivia's relationship with her grandmother and Liam's sister. Olivia is lost in parts as she tries to figure out what she's supposed to do, but she moves forward as best she can, trusts in God, and finds that she's someone worth fighting for.

My only real complaint with this story was some of Olivia's cluelessness and subsequent reactions to finding out something. It felt like it was much too strong for the situation and made me disappointed as I thought her character was better than this. I think a slightly different circumstance could have still worked. 

In the end, was it what I wished for? I enjoyed just about every minute of this story. It was heartfelt, sweet, with emotional depth and likable characters. It's definitely a book to grab if you're in the mood for an inspirational romance set in a small, quaint town in England with plenty of nods to Pride and Prejudice.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Carolyn Miller is an inspirational Regency and contemporary romance author who lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. Together with her husband, she has pastored a church for ten years and worked as a public high school English and Learning and Support teacher.

A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English Literature and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives.

Find the author here.

Have you read any books like this where the heroine gets to work at a location that appeared in a movie? Who is your favorite leading hero?

Can't Wait for... Mayhem on the Marzipan Express by Rebecca Connolly (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #MayhemontheMarzipanExpress #RebeccaConnolly #AClaireWalkerMystery #mystery #cozymystery #cleanreads

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

These cozy mystery books mixed with baking are so much fun! I'm very much looking forward to this second Claire Walker Mystery. It's my pick this week...

Mayhem on the Marzipan Express

(A Claire Walker Mystery #2)

By Rebecca Connolly

Contemporary Cozy Mystery, Romance

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages

January 26, 2026 by Shadow Mountain Publishing

Summary

A romantic getaway through the Scottish Highlands turns deadly when a passenger on the train is murdered—and a famous chef is the prime suspect.

Amateur baker and part-time sleuth Claire Walker may not have won Britian’s Battle of the Bakers cooking competition, but she still went home with a grand prize: Jonathan Ainsley’s heart. The happy couple boards the famed Scottish train, the Mallaig Steam Express—temporarily renamed “The Marzipan Express” in honor of famed chef Alan Gables, who is hosting an exclusive culinary experience for his most devoted fans. Claire is delighted to serve as Alan’s sous chef for the trip, hoping to learn some baking tips from the master.

The trip has barely begun when the train screeches to a halt. The engine has malfunctioned and must be repaired. While Claire and Jonny explore the train, they discover a dead body in one of the dining cars. It appears to be an accident, but Claire can sense something is wrong as easily as she can sense an overbaked soufflé. When the clues all point to Alan as the culprit, Claire and Jonny decide to investigate on their own. Unfortunately, Alan doesn’t have an alibi, his assistant is oddly nervous around him, and a shadowy figure keeps appearing at all the wrong times. Could it be someone from Alan’s past trying to frame him? Or could Alan be trying to cover his tracks?

Claire had hoped for a delicious, romantic getaway, not investigating a mysterious death while stress-eating trifle in the kitchen car and trying to not be jealous of a magazine reporter who is flirting with Jonny. It’s mayhem in more ways than one.

(Affiliate links included.)

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Will you be reading this one? Did you read the first book in the series?

Another delightful Austen inspired cozy mystery... Murder at Donwell Abbey by Vanessa Kelly (Review) #MurderatDonwellAbbey #AnEmmaKnightleyMystery #VanessaKelly #newbooks #bookx #cozymystery #regencymystery #austenesquefiction #janeausten #jaff #austenprosepr @KensingtonBooks @austenprose

Murder at Donwell Abbey

(An Emma Knightley Mystery #2)

By Vanessa Kelly

Historical Cozy Mystery

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 416 Pages

November 25, 2025 by Kensington

Summary

This latest Regency-era mystery from USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Kelly finds Jane Austen’s clever Emma Knightley (nee Woodhouse) as an amateur sleuth, navigating shocking changes in her family—while meeting her match in a deadly adversary . . .

Emma’s spirits are elevated after she and husband George Knightley host a joyful holiday celebration at the Hartfield estate. But it’s instantly a bitter January when her father makes an unexpected announcement—he and Miss Hetty Bates have decided to marry. Not only must Emma relinquish her role as mistress of the household, but also accept the reality that the excitable Miss Bates will become her stepmother . . .

More unwanted news arrives during an extravagant betrothal ball at Donwell Abbey, the grand Knightley estate where Emma and George will soon permanently reside. Nearly every villager in Highbury revels in the dazzling affair—except Emma’s hardworking lady’s maid, Prudence Parr. To Emma’s horror, Prudence is found dead, sprawled across the stones of the library terrace . . .

The woman’s tragic fall is quickly ruled a terrible accident and whispers circulate around personal troubles leading up to her untimely demise. But Emma’s instincts tell her that something far more sinister is at play. Now, Highbury’s matchmaker-turned-sleuth vows to outwit a cunning criminal before an innocent man loses his freedom—or Donwell Abbey plunges into a darker mystery . . .

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

MURDER AT DONWELL ABBEY is another delightful Austen inspired cozy mystery in this series. With Emma and Knightley along with other characters investigating a mysterious death, the small town of Highbury finds it's not as peaceful as thought. With the fun dynamics between Emma and her husband, a bit of a surprise with her father and the cadence of the original, Austen fans will find much to delight in this second installment! Also highly recommended to cozy historical mystery fans! 

I adored the first book in this series and was excited to jump back into the world of Emma with this one! It did not disappoint! Like the first book in the series, the pace is fairly steady with occasional red herrings and small town happenings dispersed throughout. I loved the dynamic between Emma and her husband (one of my favorite things about this series) along with all the humor. The characters come alive, especially Emma and Miss Bates. The story also has a climatic end that will push you to the edge of your seat and was done remarkedly well. I enjoyed just about every single minute and am looking forward to more!

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a relaxing (except towards the end when it's a bit intense) delight to read. Highly recommended for Austen and cozy historical mystery fans!

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Image linked to my review.)

Are you an Austen or Emma fan? Have you read the first book in this series? Have you read anything similar where an Austen character is the main character by another author?

Can't Wait for... Snake-Eater by T. Kingfisher (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #SnakeEater #TKingfisher

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I've become such a fan of this author and pretty much auto-request or auto-buy her books. Her writing is superbly intelligent, creative, with whit. Her upcoming release is my pick this week (and I'm including two different covers and want your opinion on which you like more!)...

Snake-Eater

By T. Kingfisher

Contemporary Fantasy, Paranormal, Horror

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 271 Pages

December 1, 2025 by 47North

Summary

From New York Times bestselling and Hugo Award–winning author T. Kingfisher comes an enthralling contemporary fantasy seeped in horror about a woman trying to escape her past by moving to the remote US desert―only to find herself beholden to the wrath of a vengeful god.

With only a few dollars to her name and her beloved dog Copper by her side, Selena flees her past in the city to claim her late aunt’s house in the desert town of Quartz Creek. The scorpions and spiders are better than what she left behind.

Because in Quartz Creek, there’s a strange beauty to everything, from the landscape to new friends, and more blue sky than Selena’s ever seen. But something lurks beneath the surface. Like the desert gods and spirits lingering outside Selena’s house at night, keeping watch. Mostly benevolent, says her neighbor Grandma Billy. That doesn’t ease the prickly sense that one of them watches too closely and wants something from Selena she can’t begin to imagine. And when Selena’s search for answers leads her to journal entries that her aunt left behind, she discovers a sinister truth about her new home: It’s the haunting grounds of an ancient god known simply as “Snake-Eater,” who her late aunt made a promise to that remains unfulfilled.

Snake-Eater has taken a liking to Selena, an obsession of sorts that turns sinister. And now that Selena is the new owner of his home, he’s hell-bent on collecting everything he’s owed.

(Affiliate links included.)

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Will you be reading this one? Which cover do you like more and why?

A fantasy retelling of The Prince and the Pauper... Sons of Day & Night by Mariposa Aristeo (Review & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #SonsofDayandNight #MariposaAristeo #yalit #yabooks #fantasy #fairytale #retelling @enclavebooks @celebrate_lit

Welcome to my tour stop! Find my review and giveaway below...

Sons of Day & Night

(The Chronicles of Twinsbane #1)

By Mariposa Aristeo

YA Fantasy, Fairy Tale, Retelling

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 272 Pages

November 18, 2025 by Enclave Escape

Summary

Not even death can tell them apart.

In the wild and lush kingdom of Twinsbane, everyone has a look-alike, and each twin is cursed to die when their double breathes their last. When an ancient plague arises, the kingdom’s only hope is to sever these deadly ties. Yet King Daccias refuses to relinquish the cure, a legendary potion called the Separator.

Waruu, an orphan determined to break these ties, discovers he’s the king’s doppelgänger. He’s certain that if he can switch places, he can save the kingdom. But if anyone learns his true identity, he’ll lose everything—including the people he’s desperately trying to protect.

King Daccias wants nothing more than for his subjects to cease threatening to behead him if he doesn’t hand over the Separator. Intent on catching those opposing him, he finds himself ensnared in his own trap. If he doesn’t break loose, the kingdom will rest in the hands of an insolent boy who knows nothing about the truth behind the events unfolding around him.

To save their kingdom, both Waruu and Daccias must face their greatest enemy—each other.

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My Review

SONS OF DAY & NIGHT is an interesting spin of the classic story of The Prince and the Pauper. It's set in a fantasy land where the people are of the night or of the day, each a doppelgänger of the other. The two main characters are, of course, the king and one of the poor villagers who are each others' doubles. There is enough going on to keep the story interesting, and one character easy to like while the other much less so. There's an opportunity for character development and ever increasing tensions as the clash between the people and the king come to a head. Fans of young adult fantasy and retellings may enjoy this one.

I thought the overall concept of this story to be very intriguing. Taking night versus day and applying that to the actual people with a version of each. I liked Waruu from the start. The opening scene is very reminiscent of Aladdin, which is what it reminded me of, but it's similar to also the classic story this is based on as that also starts with some thieving. Daccias is fairly unlikable. I'm sure on purpose. It's interesting watching them both switch places and the ensuing difficulties.

I would have liked more development in a lot of areas. Daccias just doesn't want to do what the people want or listen to his council or be kind, but initially the story doesn't give the reasoning behind that. There were also a lot of plot holes or places where something happens but there was no explanation or transition. Waruu was thrown into impersonating the king, but there was no shown preparation in the story (he doesn't know who anyone is or practice on what to do and or how to act/speak). It made the story feel a bit thrown together and unrealistic.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an overall enjoyable story with likable characters, especially if you enjoy cheering for an underdog, and an interesting plot. It needed more development, but still an entertaining read.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Mariposa Aristeo is a writer of fantastical adventures filled with heart, humor, hope, and sometimes dinosaurs. But, most importantly, she’s a creative who seeks to glorify God on every page of her life. Besides writing snarky characters who sass everybody, Mariposa loves bringing stories to life in full color as an illustrator. She also enjoys inspiring other creatives as the Public Relations Director at Story Embers and the Social Media Manager at the Young Writer’s Workshop.

More from the Author

How could I refuse to write a retelling of The Prince & the Pauper?

(Kudos to all the zillennial girls who get that reference.)

Ever since I watched the Barbie rendition of this classic tale when I was just a little girl, this story has been on my heart. As I grew older, other more adventurous tales influenced me, such as Dreamwork’s How to Train Your Dragon, Jennifer Nielsen’s The False Prince, Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, and more recently, Star Wars’ The Bad Batch.

But no matter the story, one aspect stayed the same—finding people just like me in the unlikeliest of places.

Growing up, I had a different childhood than most. I was pretty isolated with little to no friends, and not much extended family. It wasn’t until my twenties that I met the people who would later become my true family. They weren’t blood relations, and we didn’t interact in person until years later (yay for internet friends!). We are different in all the best ways but the same in the ways that matter and weird in the way that makes life interesting.

The Prince & the Pauper is a story about many things. Empathy, compassion, and learning what it’s like to live in another person’s shoes. When I set out to write Sons of Day & Night, I wanted to pay homage to this underrated tale while deepening the bond between the two very different (but also very alike) heroes. It’s not just a story about switched identities, it’s a story about the family we find even when our world is falling apart.

When my mom passed away from cancer in 2022, I felt like my world truly was falling to pieces. Besides losing a parent, I also lost what little I had of a normal family. But my found family came together to be there for me and be the family I never had.

We don’t share the same genetics, but they are every bit as much my brothers and sisters. As Stitch once said, “This is my family. I found it all on my own.”

Fast forward a few years, and I now live within 60 miles of my found family and see them almost every week. It’s funny to think how a few internet strangers became such a huge part of my life, but sometimes God sends us family in the places we least expect it.

And my hope is that Sons of Day & Night will remind you that there’s always someone out there just like you.

Tour Schedule

Texas Book-aholic, November 20

Inspired by Fiction, November 21

The Lofty Pages, November 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 23 (Spotlight)

Wishful Endings, November 24

CeCe Reads and Sings, November 24

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, November 25 (Author Interview)

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, November 26

Guild Master, November 27 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, November 28

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 29

Simple Harvest Reads, November 30 (Author Interview)

The Mommies Reviews, November 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 1

Labor Not in Vain, December 2

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 3 (Author Interview)

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mariposa 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.

ENTER HERE

Are you a fan of The Prince and the Pauper? Does this sound like a retelling you'd enjoy?

Can't Wait for... Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #WhispersatPainswickCourt #JulieKlassen @Julie_Klassen

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I just binge read the On Devonshire Shores series so that I could then read the fourth book in the series, A Sea View Christmas (reviews to come). I would love a follow-up book about the youngest sister from that series, but I'm also happy to jump into this upcoming release that includes a mystery. It's my pick this week...

Whispers at Painswick Court

By Julie Klassen

Christian Historical Romance, Mystery

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 368 Pages

December 2, 2025 by Bethany House Publishers

Summary

She expected her return to Painswick would bring memories of the past--not danger and romance.

Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place where she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year.

Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sickroom nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid. Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own.

As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her resolution to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real culprit--and protect her heart--before it's too late?

Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this compelling Regency-era novel laced with intrigue, love, and English village charm for fans of historical romance and whodunit mysteries.

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Will you be reading this one?

Can't Wait for... A Curse of Ashes by Sariah Wilson (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #ACurseofAshes #SariahWilson #TheEyeoftheGoddess

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally, they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I've been a fan of Sariah Wilson for some time and have been thrilled with her switch to fantasy with this series. The upcoming third book is my pick this week...

A Curse of Ashes

(The Eye of the Goddess #3)

By Sariah Wilson

Romantic Epic Fantasy, Romantasy

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 525 Pages

December 16, 2025 by Montlake

Summary

For a princess, becoming the savior of a nation could mean sacrificing love and life in this breathtaking conclusion to the epic Eye of the Goddess trilogy by USA Today bestselling author Sariah Wilson.

Princess Lia of Locris is the unlikeliest person to be Ilion’s defender. Once, she’d have gladly seen the entire adversarial nation burn. But much has changed. Ilion is home to too many innocents, including her sister. Besides, there is no escaping the goddess’s command. Lia is Ilion’s prophesied savior.

With that mortal obligation come rules: She must never consummate her marriage to Xander, prince of Ilion, lest she lose her powers of divine magic when she needs them most. Physically bonded to share each other’s pain, these former enemies have grown from merely attracted to something more profound. But what future can they have when Lia’s destiny requires sacrificing her life?

As enemies close in and war threatens everything they love, Lia and Xander must find a way to follow the goddess’s laws while also accepting the truth in their hearts―before the prophecy demands its final, fatal price.

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Will you be reading this one?

Read an excerpt from this romantic suspense... Kidnapped for Ransom by Jacqueline Adam (Excerpt & #Giveway) #newbooks #bookx #KidnappedforRansom #JacquelineAdam #romancebooks #suspense @JustReadTours @LoveInspiredBks

Welcome to my tour stop, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
Read an excerpt and enter the giveaway below...

Kidnapped for Ransom

By Jacqueline Adam

Romantic Suspense

Paperback & eBook, 208 Pages

October 28, 2025 by Love Inspired Suspense 

Summary

Abduction is only the beginning… 
Will murder be next?

Doctor Chelsea Eidman thought she’d finally escaped the perils of her late husband’s secret life as a diamond thief—until his former accomplice attacks her. The danger escalates when a vengeful mobster kidnaps Chelsea’s daughter and friend, demanding the stolen diamonds in exchange for their lives. To recover the gems, Chelsea joins forces with officer Matt Reynolds, whose sister has also been abducted. As they race against time, they find themselves in deadly pursuits across harsh terrain. With everything on the line, Chelsea and Matt must outsmart their enemies and unravel a web of lies…before their families pay the ultimate price.

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Excerpt

Chelsea froze, adrenaline spiking through her. Someone was in the house.

Lynelle. She had to get to Lynelle. She ran for the stairs when a stout, middle-aged man with
thick black hair walked into the kitchen, blocking her path. Chelsea opened her mouth to scream.

“Don’t,” the man said quickly, raising a gun.

Chelsea stumbled backward, glancing about the kitchen for some sort of weapon. “What do you
want?”

“Follow me,” the man said. “You and I have business to discuss.” He motioned with the gun for
her to move through the hallway and into the living room. “Sit.” He pointed at the wingback
chair by the fireplace. Terrified, she did as she was told, watching as he ran his smooth surgical-
gloved finger through the dust on the mantel.

“We haven’t met before, so I’ll introduce myself,” he said, squatting down until his eyes leveled
with hers. “I’m Alek. At least, that’s what my friends call me.” He leaned forward, a dark smile
spreading across his face. “Do you want to know what my enemies call me?”

Chelsea shook her head no, not trusting her voice.

About the Author

Jacqueline Adam lives in British Columbia with her husband and two incredible children. She and her family love to find adventure, whether it be zip-lining, riding roller coasters, or camping throughout the Rocky Mountains and beyond. Jacqueline writes love-inspired suspense stories with strong, dynamic characters that overcome impossible odds. Connect with Jacqueline online at jacquelineadam.com

Tour Schedule

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Tour-Wide Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a CUTEBEE Owl bookstore Book Nook Kit, a print copy of Kidnapped for Ransom, and a Mora Ceramics Large Tea Mug with Loose Leaf Infuser and Ceramic Lid!

Full tour schedule linked above. The giveaway begins at midnight November 4, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 11, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

What's the last Love Inspired Suspense you read? Do you have a favorite suspense book or author?