Escape to a picturesque national park and a bit of romance... Chase the Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Review & #Giveaway) #ChasetheLight #NationalParksSummers #SuzanneWoodsFisher #newbooks #bookx #fiction #romancebooks #christfic @Celebrate_Lit @RevellBooks @Suzannewfisher


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

Chase the Light
(National Parks Summers #2)
By Suzanne Woods Fisher
Contemporary Romance, Fiction, Christian
Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages
May 5, 2026 by Revell

Summary

She uncovered a piece of history--but can she make peace with her own?

When Acadia National Park ranger Scout Johnson discovers a weathered note near a remote lighthouse, she never imagines it will expose a century-old mystery. The cryptic message points to a forgotten shipwreck, a vanished treasure, and a lighthouse keeper's suspicious death. Seeking answers, Scout enlists Naki Dana, a thoughtful man whose Penobscot heritage provides crucial insights. As they venture deeper into Acadia's rugged wilderness, their unlikely partnership begins stirring feelings Scout didn't expect to find. But they aren't the only ones searching.

Chase Fletcher, a charming local journalist, sees this treasure hunt as his last opportunity to save his failing paper--and finds himself increasingly drawn to the ranger leading the search. With pressure mounting and loyalties tested, Scout must navigate a winding path between history and justice, truth and betrayal . . . and determine who--and what--deserves her trust.

Suzanne Woods Fisher weaves a contemporary romance filled with mystery, treasure hunting, and adventure as a park ranger uncovers a century-old shipwreck and dangerous secrets at Acadia National Park. Perfect for fans of mysteries and love triangles.

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

CHASE THE LIGHT is the perfect title for this story where the characters literally look to the light to find hidden gold stashes in the Acadia National Park. This story is a fun combination of a treasure hunt, romance triangle, history research, and several different relationship dynamics all set at a picturesque national park. This author again delivers an intriguing story with great characters that offers a nice summer escape. Definitely a recommended read!

I've loved all of this author's books that I've read over the years and was excited to dive into this newest release of hers! She's so good and writing relatable characters with stories that resonate with the heart. 

This story had some unique aspects that I haven't ran across too often in other stories. I loved the hunt for gold, which added a bit of adventure and intensity. There were a few places of info-dumping, but very brief. I felt the author did a fabulous job weaving through the history and other facts, particularly about the Penobscot tribe, all of which I found to be interesting.

I loved these characters! Particularly Scout and Naki. Goodness! The moments between these two! When an author can covey so much emotion and meaning in glances and wordless, quiet moments, you know it's a good story! I'm not a fan of love triangles, but this one worked for me and also definitely worked for the story and its characters. And everything turned out as it should, of course. The romance is sweet and takes a backseat to other things going on, so I think those who aren't huge romance fans will also very much enjoy this one. 

I appreciated the inspirational moments. They weren't preachy, pushy or lengthy. Some of them also conveyed a sweet message that I personally needed. 

There were a few things I would have liked developed more or added in to make this story more vivid and realistic. I would have loved more involvement with the small town and other characters. The story felt very isolated. Also one of my favorite things about a story taking place in a smaller, tourist town, is how the side characters enhance the story. I could have had less of a main story focusing on the teenagers and more side characters in the park and the town. They were basically nonexistent, including other park rangers that should have appeared here and there on page. The other was that it felt a bit off not to include the police when a car got broken into and to send kids after the perpetrator. 

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a heartfelt, relatable read with some adventure thrown in. Wonderful characters who were easy to relate to and a picturesque setting made for a delightful read!

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

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to an Amazon affiliate link.)

About the Author


Suzanne Woods Fisher is a bestselling author, Christy finalist, Carol and Selah winner, and two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, with over forty books to her name. She writes contemporary, historical and Amish novels. Suzanne lives in California with her husband, where life (and friends) inspire her stories.


More from the Author

If a trip to Acadia National Park isn’t already on your bucket list, it should be—and when you go, don’t miss warm popovers on the lawn at the iconic Jordan Pond House.


The Unofficial-but-Close-Enough Jordan Pond Popover Recipe*


Back in 1895, Nellie and Thomas McIntire bought a Maine farmhouse overlooking the clear waters of Jordan Pond. On their wide green lawn, they served tea and towering popovers to well-to-do summer travelers. In 1928, J. D. Rockefeller purchased the land and later donated it to Acadia National Park. The lawn remains. The view remains. And the popovers? Still iconic.

While the original recipe is famously guarded, this version comes deliciously close.

Makes 6–8 large popovers.

What You’ll Need

4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
½ teaspoon kosher salt
Pinch of baking soda
2 tablespoons melted butter

Let’s Make Them

1. Start with a hot oven (and a hot pan).
Preheat your oven to 425°–450°F. Place your popover pan (or a muffin tin) in the oven while it heats.
2. Whisk the batter.
Beat the eggs for about 2–3 minutes until slightly frothy. Slowly pour in the milk, then add the flour, salt, and baking soda. Mix just until combined. The batter should be smooth but not overworked.
3. Fill the cups.
Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and grease it generously with butter or spray. Pour the batter into each cup, filling them about halfway to three-quarters full.
4. Bake.
Bake at 425°–450°F for 15 minutes. Then, without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake another 15–20 minutes. The high heat creates the lift; the lower heat helps them set inside.
5. Resist the urge to peek.
Do not open the oven door while they bake. The steam inside is what makes them puff and keeps them tall.

Serve immediately with plenty of butter and strawberry jam.

A Few Tips for Sky-High Popovers
- Room temperature matters. Cold eggs or milk will slow the rise. Let them sit out a bit before mixing.
- Heat is your friend. A properly preheated pan jump-starts the puff.
- No peeking. Steam is everything here. Let the oven do its work.

*Recipe adapted from Weston Table.

Tour Schedule












EmpowerMoms, May 23








Simple Harvest Reads, May 28 (Guest Review from Donna)



Mary Hake, May 29

Tour-Wide Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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


Have you read any other contemporary books set in a national park? What is a favorite national park that you've visited?

Can't Wait for... The Fatal Unpleasantness of Netherfield by Claudia Gray (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #TheFatalUnpleasantnessofNetherfield #MrDarcy&MissTilney #ClaudiaGray #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #mystery #historical #austenesque


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 loved this series so much! I'm so looking forward to this next installment and hopefully with a few more sparks between the main characters. It's my pick this week...

The Fatal Unpleasantness of Netherfield
(Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney #5)
By Claudia Gray
Historical Mystery, Austenesque, Clean Reads
Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages
June 16, 2026 by Vintage

Summary

The fifth book in New York Times bestselling author Claudia Gray’s Jane Austen sequel series, which finds amateur sleuths Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney investigating a suspicious murder at Netherfield Park

“With wit, charm, and a pitch perfect Regency voice, Claudia Gray expertly conjures the magic of Jane Austen." —Mimi Matthews, USA Today bestselling author


Jonathan Darcy has recovered from the wound he received in a duel three months prior, during a disastrous London Season. But his parents aren’t over the shock, and they remain convinced that, no matter how many murderers have been caught via their investigations, Jonathan must end his association with Miss Juliet Tilney—particularly now that she is a young lady of ruined reputation. He prays for some opportunity to be with her again, but unfortunately, the answer to those prayers comes in the form of murder: his uncle Charles Bingley’s brother-in-law, Mr. Hurst, is found dead from poisoning at Netherfield Park. Aunt Jane is desperate for answers, which means Miss Tilney must be invited to Netherfield to investigate!


Juliet, still reeling from her newfound ruination, is happy to be back in the thick of an investigation. The reunion with Mr. Darcy is difficult—Juliet has missed Jonathan terribly, but she is tormented by the knowledge that his parents will never approve their match. Adding to her troubles are the scheming Caroline Bingley Allerdyce and her daughter Priscilla, whose machinations threaten any hope Juliet might have of societal rehabilitation, much less an engagement. Then, Mr. Hurst proves to be only the first victim at Netherfield, casting a pall of danger—and worse, scandal—over the Bingleys' household. Jonathan and Juliet must find the culprit, and will ultimately be called to make a final choice between respectability…and love.

(Affiliate links included.)


Will you be reading this one?

Check out this upcoming YA thriller... We Could Be Anyone by Anna-Marie McLemore (Spotlight) #WeCouldBeAnyone #AnnaMarieMcLemore #yalit #yabooks #thriller #newbooks #bookx #topplingstackstours


Welcome to my tour stop! Find out more about this new release below...

We Could Be Anyone
By Anna-Marie McLemore
YA Historical Thriller, Romance, Horror
Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 288 Pages
May 26, 2026 by Feiwel & Friends

Summary

Two teen con-artists must execute an almost impossible scam at an exclusive mansion in this thriller that's White Lotus meets Mexican Gothic - for teens.

Lola and I grew up hearing that we could become anything, but our parents hadn’t meant it the way gringo parents did. They meant it as a warning.

Lola and Lisandro are actors during Hollywood’s Golden Age, but you won’t see them on any silver screen. Instead, these siblings use their talents to scam the rich and famous out of their ill-begotten cash. They have their act down to a science: Lola plays the tragic ghost who haunts the mansions of the wealthy, and Lisandro plays the brave spiritualist who will help her soul find peace. For a small fee, of course.

The siblings have their sights set on their next target: The Coterie, the opulent estate of newspaper tycoon Bixby Fairfax and his famous mistress Blythe Bell. A score this big will allow them to move… well, anywhere but here. But this job requires them to do something they’ve never done before: switch roles. And as strange things keep happening at The Coterie… things that even Lola and Lisandro can’t explain.

As they are drawn deeper into The Coterie’s gleaming façade and tensions rise between brother and sister, one question looms over them. Will they be able to pull off their act? Or will this be their last performance?

Brimming with Anne-Marie McLemore’s signature atmospheric writing, We Could Be Anyone is perfect for readers who love:
• Queer Romance
• Con Artists
• Old Money Glamor
• Myths and Folklore
• Ryan La Sala books


(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Anna-Marie McLemore (they/them) is the author of William C. Morris Debut Award Finalist The Weight of Feathers; Wild Beauty; Blanca & Roja, one of Time Magazine’s 100 Best Fantasy Novels of All Time; Indie Next List title Dark and Deepest Red; Lakelore, an NECBA Windows & Mirrors title; Venom & Vow, co-authored with Elliott McLemore; Flawless Girls; and National Book Award longlist selections When the Moon Was Ours, which was also a Stonewall Honor Book; The Mirror Season; and Self-Made Boys: A Great Gatsby Remix. Their latest release is their adult debut, The Influencers, and their next young adult novel is We Could Be Anyone, forthcoming in spring 2026.


Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.


What other suspense books have you read recently that you'd recommend?

The conclusion to this YA Regency romance series... Rebel Heiress by Amalie Howard (Review) #RebelHeiress #TheDiamonds #AmalieHoward #newbooks #bookx #yalit #yabooks #cleanreads


Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review below...

Rebel Heiress
(The Diamonds #3)
By Amalie Howard
YA Historical Romance
Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 384 Pages
May 19, 2026 by Joy Revolution

Summary

A young heiress must disguise herself to attend a prestigious, all-male university, where she unexpectedly falls for her handsome tutor, in this swoony historical romance by the USA Today bestselling author of Queen Bee.

Lady Rosalin Chen has a secret—she isn’t as vapid as she pretends to be. In fact, she’s a computing genius and smarter than most of her peers in the ton, including her own cousin, Ansel. It’s a secret she’s kept for years, not that hiding her intelligence has done her any favors in the marriage department.

In fact, after several dismal social seasons in London, she’s practically considered a spinster. With little to lose, she decides to set her sights on getting a proper education rather than finding a husband. Disguised as Ansel, who truly could be her twin, she attends Cambridge University while he galivants around Europe on a secret Grand Tour.

There Rosalin crosses quills with the Trinity College’s mathematics prodigy and her tutor Tarik St. Clair. For the first time in her life, Rosalin is genuinely intrigued by a boy. His mind seems to be as sharp as hers. Unfortunately, as a commoner, Tarik doesn’t fit her parents’ expectations. But what if he could? What if she concocted one more audacious plan that could raise his station and finally take her off the market? She just has to hope that her lies don’t catch up to her.

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

REBEL HEIRESS is a story about a girl who impersonates her male cousin in order to attend college, set in historical England when women weren't allowed into higher education. What ensues is a rather humorous muddle, especially when she falls for her tutor. Full of friendship, family, a young woman coming into her own, and sweet romance. Recommended to fans of the genre.

The premise for this story sounded so fun, and it was! I couldn't help but laugh or smile at a few of the situations the heroine found herself in. Rosalin "Roz" had a bit of a time not exposing herself. She was an intelligent young woman who just wanted to learn like her cousin was at college. She embroiled her ladies' maid in the scheme in order to pull it off. She also made some friends along the way and developed quite a crush on her tutor. The scheme got a bit out of hand, of course, which created some tension and risk. I enjoyed the friendships in this story. Not only those at the school, but also those Roz has with her cousin and her friends. The romance was sweet with plenty of sparks. There were a lot of references to what she was learning as well as the women at the time who made names for themselves in the math/science/astronomy arenas, which was interesting. I also liked the diversity of the characters. We can never have too much of that! The first half of the story was my favorite, through to when Roz starts meeting with Tarik as herself.

I did want some things to be more realistic to the time period and have characters react accordingly. There were parts where that was basically skipped over or not addressed. There was too much name dropping. I also didn't read the other books in the series and there were a few things that could have been either taken out or developed better with previous main characters that were present in this story. The romance seemed to take the story over towards the end and then go on and on. I personally didn't need the ending, especially as this is YA. I think since the author was sad to finish the series, she tried to extend the story to tie the entire series up.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an escape to Regency England. Delightful characters, an entertaining plot, and sweet romance made this a fun read! I'm curious about the previous books in the series and will pick those up as well as check out what Howard publishes next.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Toppling Stacks Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author


AMALIE HOWARD is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling novelist. Always Be My Duchess was one of Cosmopolitan’s 30 Best Romance Books of 2022 and The Beast of Beswick was one of Oprah Daily’s 24 Best Historical Romance Novels to Read. She is also the author of several award-winning young adult novels. A Caribbean-born AAPI writer, her books have been featured in The Hollywood Reporter, Entertainment Weekly, and Seventeen Magazine. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found reading, being the president of her one-woman Harley Davidson motorcycle club, or power-napping. She lives in Colorado with her family.


Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.


Have you read any other YA Regency books that you enjoyed and would recommend?

Can't Wait for... Scent of Hope by Susan May Warren (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #ScentofHope #CalloftheWild #SusanMayWarren


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'm a huge fan of this author, especially loving her Christiansen Family series and her recent indie series. This is the second book in her newest traditionally published series and I'm excited to jump back into the action! It's my pick this week...

Scent of Hope
(Call of the Wild #2)
By Susan May Warren
Christian Romantic Suspense
Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 352 Pages
June 2, 2026 by Revell

Summary

Two broken hearts. One deadly mission. And just one avalanche dog standing between them and a killer.

Harley Tatum made a vow to never return to Copper Mountain, Alaska, where a drug dealer destroyed her family and the man she loved walked away. But when that same criminal escapes and justice calls her name, she has no choice but to face everything she buried.

Jericho Bowie remembers things differently. She left him. And he's spent years wondering why. Now Harley needs his search-and-rescue dog, Orlando, to track a fugitive through treacherous mountain terrain--and Jericho refuses to let her go alone. Not again.

But as they push deep into the frozen wilderness, the hunter becomes the hunted. Old feelings resurface at the worst possible time, and survival depends on two people who don't know if they can trust each other--or their own hearts.

Susan May Warren packs action and heart-pounding suspense from the rugged wilderness of Alaska into a nonstop adventure where the greatest danger might be opening your heart again.

This gripping suspense is filled with pulse-pounding action, second-chance romance, and a heroic K9 rescue dog from Alaska, sure to thrill fans of Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, and Natalie Walters.

(Affiliate links included.)


Will you be reading this one?

Some humorous romantic suspense in historical Texas... Calico Canyon by Mary Connealy (Review & #Giveaway) #CalicoCanyon #PetticoatsandCowboys #MaryConnealy #newbooks #bookx #christianfiction #romancebooks #suspense @Celebrate_Lit


This is a series that has been republished with new covers, so they're stories you might have read previously. If you haven't, it's the perfect time to jump into this series. The Husband Tree is my favorite from the series. Find my review of this book and the tour giveaway below...

Calico Canyon
(Petticoats & Cowboys #2)
By Mary Connealy
Christian Historical Romance, Suspense, Western
Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages
April 24, 2026 by Wild Hearts Books

Summary

From beloved author Mary Connealy comes a delightful Western adventure brimming with danger, laughter, and unexpected romance—a tale of a runaway teacher, a bewildered widower, and five rambunctious boys who need a mother whether they want one or not. Perfect for fans of Tracie Peterson and Karen Witemeyer.

Grace Calhoun never imagined teaching school in Texas would lead to marriage—especially not to the infuriating Daniel Reeves.

When Grace flees her adoptive father's cruelty by hiding in a stranger's wagon, the town parson insists on an immediate wedding, leaving Grace trapped in marriage to a stubborn widower with five unruly sons—the very boys who made her teaching job impossible.

Daniel Reeves has no intention of risking his heart—or another wife—to childbirth.

Still grieving the loss of his first wife, Daniel wants nothing to do with the prim schoolmarm forced into his family. He'll build her a house and provide for her needs, but he'll keep his distance. His sons need a mother, but he refuses to fall in love again.

Snowed in together for a long Texas winter, walls begin to crumble.

As Grace discovers the courage she thought she'd lost, she transforms from a frightened woman on the run to a fierce protector of her new family. The boys who once tormented her become the children of her heart. And the husband who swore to keep his distance? He's finding it harder each day to resist his spirited wife.

But when Grace's dangerous past catches up to her, she must choose between running again or standing firm in the faith that brought her to Calico Canyon—even if it costs her everything.

A tender tale of found family, healing love, and the faithfulness of God in the midst of life's unexpected turns.

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

CALICO CANYON is a riot of a story with the crazy Reeves boys and a sweet young teacher thrown in the mix. The small-town community adds extra charm. There are plenty of childhood antics and roughhousing. This is also a marriage-of-convenience story, or maybe more of a forced marriage story, so definitely for fans of the trope. The faith element is fairly strong, along with plenty of sparks, danger, and some hilarious moments while the two main characters try to figure how to make their marriage and family work.

I didn't realize at first that this was a republished book and that the whole (previous two separate series) was being re-released. I love the new covers and it's always fun to revisit some Connealy books. 

This is one crazy story! The Reeves family is made up from a single dad and five young boys. The boys are made up of one set of twins and one of triplets and they're a very rambunctious bunch. Then this sweet young teacher is thrown in when she runs for her life. When she's found with the family by the parson, they're immediately married. They all start off not liking each other, but eventually grow closer. I felt the romance was mostly attraction and could have used a lot more depth. The boys antics were over the top, but added most of the hilarity to this story. They were also sweet young boys who needed a mom and are adorable. I liked the other side character plots that were weaved into the main story. The faith aspect of this story was strong and I would have liked it worked in a bit better. Some of it didn't feel natural to what was going on, and it can be a fine line to not come off preachy. The characters could have also been developed more. They felt a bit one dimensional. Beyond those things, this was a fun story, with a sweet romance, some inspirational moments where characters developed trust in God, with humor and some danger.

In the end, was it what I wished for? It was fun to revisit this series, especially with the new covers that definitely give it a nice refresh. This was a humorous, romantic, suspenseful and uplifting story. Christian romance readers and fans of the author should enjoy this one!

Content: Some violence and abuse (including of children).
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author


Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist. She is the bestselling author of 75 books and novellas. She has over a million and a half books in print.

Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or find her at Petticoats & Pistols!

More from the Author

I think of Calico Canyon as my husband’s life growing up.

He is sixth of seven sons. A family of all boys.

His mom, my mother-in-law, was the coolest lady I’ve ever known. That woman could handle everything and never be other than sweet and generous and so funny. She’s gone now but for all the years she was in my life, I’d say she was my best friend.

All those boys! She was the living embodiment of rolling with the punches and not sweating the small stuff.

Those brothers…they are the inspiration for this book but my mother-in-law read it and said, her boys were so much better behaved than those boys in Calico Canyon, and she’s right about that…no boys could be worse than the Reeves boys.

This book is the embodiment of the forced marriage. Two people caught in a completely innocent compromising situation. Nothing will do but immediate marriage after Grace spends the night with Daniel.

But there were five boys in that cave with us!

Not gonna save you, Grace.

Grace is a school marm and those boys have been a torment to her ever since they’d shown up at school. Now, due to Grace needing to hide from her abusive, adoptive father, who has tracked her down to this tiny town in Texas, she’d ended up under a tarp over Daniel’s wagon. He takes her home and she has no choice but to stay quiet under that tarp until it’s too late to take her back.

The wedding scene from Calico Canyon was, for many years, what I considered the funniest thing I’d ever written. Very hard work to get that scene right. Grace is confused when she’s found with Daniel by the parson. Oh, good. Someone who will give me a ride back to town.

The parson is saying the vows. Grace is happy to take a ride. The parson’s wife is urging the parson to hurry. Daniel is trying to put a stop to it. The boys are all horrified to see their hated teacher.

Mayhem ensues.

It was a lot of fun to get right. Lots of moving parts in that scene.

And then a blizzard snows the gap that leads into their canyon shut and they have to spend the winter trying not to kill each other. And of course, falling in love.

I hope you enjoy Calico Canyon. The fumbling, clueless cowboy. The innocent, befuddled school marm. The unruly boys who don’t see why she can’t cook and why she won’t go home.

The danger, circling the outside of their canyon, waiting for the gap to open so he can avenge himself on the daughter that send him to prison.

Tour Schedule




Simple Harvest Reads, May 8 (Guest Review from Donna)










Mary Hake, May 16



Tour-Wide Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Mary is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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


Are you a Mary Connealy fan? Had you previously read this series?

Can't Wait for... Seek the Traitor's Son by Veronica Roth (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #SeektheTraitorsSon #VeronicaRoth #dystopian #fantasy #romancebooks


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.

It's been a bit since I've dived into the Veronica Roth book or a dystopian and this one sounds like it'll definitely be a page-turner. It's my pick this week...

Seek the Traitor's Son
(The Burning Empire #1)
By Veronica Roth
Romantic Dystopian Fantasy
Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 432 Pages
May 12, 2026 by Tor Books

Summary

DELUXE EDITION―a beautiful hardcover edition featuring a map, designed endpapers and black sprayed edges.

An epic, romantic dystopian fantasy begins in Seek the Traitor's Son, from #1 New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth


Elegy Ahn did not ask for destiny to find her.

She is happy with her life as a soldier, defending her small country from the Talusar, a powerful nation who worships a deadly Fever. A fever that blesses half of its victims with mysterious gifts.

But then she’s summoned to hear a prophecy–her, and the most ruthless of Talusar generals, Rava Vidar. Brought face to face, they learn that one of them will lead their people to victory over the other…but they don’t know which. And at the center of both of their fates: a man. A man that, Elegy is told, she will fall in love with.

In just one day, Elegy’s old life–her job, her purpose, and her future–is over. She and Rava are destined to collide, with the fate of their nations hanging in the balance. And when they do, only one will be left standing.

Elegy intends to make sure it’s her.

(Affiliate links included.)


Will you be reading this one?

A humorous paranormal romance... You're Dead to Me, Reed Walker by Gwenyth Reitz (Spotlight) #YoureDeadtoMeReedWalker #GwenythReitz #newbooks #bookx #yabooks #yalit #paranormal #romancebooks


Welcome to my tour stop! Read about this new release and find a link to follow the tour below...

You're Dead to Me, Reed Walker
By Gwenyth Reitz
Young Adult Paranormal Romance, Romcom
Hardcover & eBook, 352 Pages
May 12, 2026 by Roaring Book Press

Summary

A swoonworthy YA supernatural romcom where two academic rivals are trapped as ghosts to haunt the same house.

They'd kill each other...if they weren't already dead.


Tessa Sinclair is a winner. Winner of spelling bees, science fairs, and scholarships. So when she finds herself unexpectedly dead after a graduation party in an abandoned mansion, she's none too pleased. What's worse, her Harvard-bound, Mr. Perfect academic rival, Reed Walker, is there too―deceased, smug, and annoying as hell.

Being a ghost is hard enough, but it's a thousand times worse having to haunt the same house as your nemesis. But as Tessa and Reed retreat to RIP in their respective corners of the mansion, a mystery unfurls about the exact cause of their deaths.

Though they'd rather die (again) than work together, they'll need to overcome their differences to hunt down a murderer on the loose. And should they happen to fall for each other along the way...Who ever said you can't find love after death?

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Gwenyth Reitz was born in Sri Lanka, and has since lived and worked in California, Washington, Alaska, Montana, Japan, and Mongolia. When not intrepidly exploring she writes genre-blending YA stories with swoony romance, mystery, humor, and heart. Gwenyth now lives in NYC with her husband and two daughters, where she can often be found scribbling late into the night on her rooftop like the caffeine-obsessed night-owl she is.

As a theater maker with an MFA in Interdisciplinary Art, Gwenyth works for Lincoln Center Theater teaching acting and directing teens. For fun, she likes to sing Hamilton karaoke, maybe not well, but with gusto. Her debut novel, YOU’RE DEAD TO ME, REED WALKER, comes out in the Spring of 2026 with Macmillan’s Roaring Brook Press, followed by an untitled second novel in 2027. Gwenyth is represented by Dr. Uwe Stender of Triada US Literary Agency. You can find her on socials @GwenythReitz


Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.


Have you read any other books where the characters die towards the beginning of the story? What appeals to you about this one?

A sweet summer read... Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights by Celeste Dador (Review) #StarsStripesandSummerNights #CelesteDador #newbooks #bookx #yabooks #yalit #romancebooks


Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review and find the link to the tour schedule below...

Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights
By Celeste Dador
Young Adult Contemporary Romance
Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages
May 12, 2026 by Delacorte Romance

Summary

A swoony, patriotic romance with Gilmore Girls charm—follow First Daughter Abby as she dives into a summer of surprises, small-town magic, and sparks with the boy who shakes up her world.

What if the person who turns your world upside down is exactly who you're meant to find?


All First Daughter Abby Alzona wanted was one normal night. But one impulsive pizza order later, she’s front-page news—and officially exiled to a Wi-Fi-free country inn for the summer, along with her little sister Elle.

The inn belongs to Gabriel Calabrese’s family: he’s sarcastic, camera-obsessed, and definitely not dazzled by presidential perks (also, kind of the reason for the whole pizza fiasco). But Abby’s determined to make the most of her time away from the White House—with a summer bucket list full of things real teens get to do. Pool parties. Picnics. Maybe even a first kiss.

As she and Elle dive into small-town life, Abby starts to see what makes Gabriel tick. And maybe, just maybe, she’s falling for him. . . .

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

STARS, STRIPES & SUMMER NIGHTS is a story about a girl who wants to experience a normal teenage summer, or at least as close as she can get with her security detail following her everywhere. It's about all the firsts: first brain freeze, first rebellion, first party, first hike, first sneaking out and first kiss. There's a lovely family dynamic, some new friendships, a little drama, and first love. YA contemporary romance fans may enjoy this one.

This was a sweet story. I had two favorite things about it. First was that I just adored Abby's family! I loved that her parents were involved and loving. I thought it was cool that her dad was a former astronaut and still a pilot even thought that aspect isn't talked about too much and her mom is the president of the US. I also loved Abby's and Elle's relationship. The second was Gabe. I loved him! He was a fun leading man with some depth and easy charm. I liked how he challenged Abby and was a perfect counter to her more planned life. The story itself is cute. It meanders along as Abby tries to fulfill her bucket list of firsts. Nothing too crazy with all the uncertainties of facing things you've never done before, especially figuring out if a guy likes you.

I did have a few issues with the story. I found it very unplausible that almost all of the new things Abby did she hadn't already experienced as an incoming senior in high school. You'd really have to live in a bubble in today's social media and online ordering age to have had so many things you've never experienced. Maybe if she'd been homeschooled it would have been more plausible? I also didn't love Abby. It's always hard to love a book when you don't love the MC. My other issue is that I wanted a lot more depth to the characters and story. I felt like it was more surface level and the characters were a bit one dimensional, except maybe Gabe and Elle. They seemed fairly realistic.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an overall sweet, quick read. Maybe a fun addition to read around Independence Day or for light reading on the beach. I'm curious to see what this author tackles next.

Content: A few instances of mild swearing.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Toppling Stacks Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author


Celeste “C.C.” Dador (“da-door”) writes cozy rom coms with festive flair! As a former wedding planner’s assistant, Celeste’s all about swoon-worthy details and making sure her readers are having their best day.

She was a reality TV finalist on America’s Next Great Author, and has been chosen for several competitive author mentorships —proof that caffeine and stubborn optimism really do pay off. She loves meeting writers because who else gets excited about fictional people and excessive caffeine – and is a regional leader with SCBWI, a kidlit creator community.

Celeste lives and works in the Washington D.C. area with her family, where they enjoy exploring historic sites in search of ghost stories, good snacks, and a decent parking spot. Like most of her main characters, Celeste is proudly Filipino-American.

Her favorite words of advice: “Find something only you can say” and “If you have to choose between a werewolf or a vampire – always choose the vampire.

For her Adult romances, she writes under the pen name C.C. Dador.


Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.


Have you read any books where a character was part of the presidential family? What appeals to you about this book?

Briana’s Top Five Tips on Not Falling in Love with Your Best Friend... The Hometown Cop's Forever Family by Tara Randel (Guest Post & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #TheHometownCopsForeverFamily #TaraRandel #Harlequin #romancebooks #cleanreads @justreadtours

The Hometown Cop's Forever Familly JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to my tour stop with JustRead Publicity Tours!
Read a fun guest post from the author and enter the giveaway below...

The Hometown Cop's Forever Family
The Hometown Cop's Forever Family
(A Golden, Georgia Romance #3)
By Tara Randel
Wholesome Contemporary Romance
Paperback & eBook, 336 Pages
April 28, 2026 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Summary

Solving crimes  

And falling in love! 

Charming, small-town Golden, Georgia, has everything Briana Connelly needs—her four-year-old daughter, her family, and her job as a police officer. When her former best friend, Jackson Walker, returns suddenly and is made her partner at work, she’s forced to face the events that drove them apart. With a mysterious theft to investigate, spending time with Jax is unavoidable…and easier than she’d like. Especially when his effortless warmth wins over her precious daughter. As a deeper connection grows between them, he starts to feel like a part of Briana’s little family. But if overcoming the past means admitting their true feelings—that might be the biggest risk of all.  

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.

(Affiliate links included.)

Briana’s Top Five Tips on Not Falling in Love with Your Best Friend
By Tara Randel

Where do I start? Probably at the beginning.

Jax and I were best friends growing up. We got into mischief together, spent the majority of our days together, knew each other’s secrets and saw each other at our best and worst. When he decided to go into the military, he asked me to go with him, but I stayed behind in Golden. My mom had just gone through a divorce and being the oldest child, I wanted to be there for her. In return, I lost my best friend.

Now, he’s back in Golden and my new partner at the Golden PD. Who thought that was a good idea? That would be my boss. So now that Jax has been home for a while and I see him every day, what are my tips on not falling in love with your best friend?

#1. Place all your memories in a mental lockbox. It seems like every time I turn around, Jax and I are recounting old times. Which is sweet, but I try not to recall those special times we shared because it draws me closer to him. I’m supposed to be keeping a clear head about Jax being my friend only, right? Talking about how we learned to drive, the time we went to prom together or the location of our secret meetup spot makes me want new memories with him, which is a no-no if I want to stay in the friend zone.

#2. Forget that Jax knows me better than anyone. Right now, we work because we’re partners on the job, but in our social time? He knows that I love potato chips, that I read romance novels and how my father bailing on our family affected me emotionally. It’s tough keeping my shields up when he knows the real me. Maybe I should treat him like a new friend who doesn’t know a thing.

#3. Put a limit on sharing new sides of each other. We spent many years apart, so there is a gap in our friendship. He wasn’t there when I adopted my daughter, Cami, or got hired onto the Golden PD. On the flip side, I didn’t know about his years in the military or the places where he was stationed. The more I learn about Jax, the more it makes me want to know even more and I’m not supposed to be noticing him.

#4. Try not to make the fact that Jax is back in town awkward for everyone. We live in a small town where everyone is in everyone else’s business. Our families live here and they remember the years when Jax and I were friends. And when we’re out in the community, we can’t ignore small talk which usually leads back to when we were younger. Folks expect us to pick up where we left off, but too many years have gone by. So, we do our jobs and pretend that we don’t miss the friendship we once shared.

#5. As hard as you try, ignore those pesky feelings that creep up on you. No matter how many times I remind myself that Jax is my friend, I want more. Family. Connection. And most of all, love. Can Jax be my best friend and the love of my life?

I hope you read The Hometown Cop’s Forever Family to discover if I followed my own tips.

Other Books in the Series

About the Author

Tara Randel

Tara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author. Family values, a bit of mystery and of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets and beautiful weather inspire the creation of heartwarming stories. Tara has received the Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award.

Connect with Tara by visiting tararandel.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

Tour Schedule

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

Tour-Wide Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a prize bundle which includes a $25 Amazon Gift Card, bookish tote bag, booklover's keychain, bookmark and 2 autographed books by the author!

(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card!

The Hometown Cop's Forever Family blog tour giveaway JustRead Tours

Full tour schedule linked above. The giveaway begins at midnight May 4, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 11, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Which tip of Briana's did you like the most? Have you read other books by this author or from this line?