~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE AN UNEXPECTED COMPANION ~

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~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~

--  'AN UNEXPECTED COMPANION -- 

AUTHOR MINDY OBENHAUS 

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Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for

 An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

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About the Book

 

Title:  An Unexpected Companion 

Author:   Mindy Obenhaus 

Series:   K-9 Companions #31, Legacy Ranch #1 

Publisher:   Love Inspired 

Release Date:   April 1, 2025 

Genre:   Inspirational Contemporary Romance 

With his dog by his side… Is a second chance within reach? 

After losing his family and his leg in a car crash, widower Dirk Matthews dedicates his solitary life to woodworking and his mobility service dog, Molly. That is, until a troubled kid steals from his truck. Desperate to reach her grieving oldest son, widow Tessa Wagner agrees to have the boy help Dirk work on her family’s ranch. Only she doesn’t expect her own connection with the carpenter. Soon they’re feeling more than the shared loss of loved ones. But will past heartbreak stand in the way of their future? 

 

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EXCERPT:

Dilemma solved, she joined her freshly clothed boys outside where they were playing cornhole in the shade-covered St. Augustine grass alongside the patio area. Grayson’s mood seemed much improved. And for that, she was thankful.

“When are we gonna eat?” Her ever-hungry eldest looked her way.

“Soon. Aunt Dee just texted that she’s on her way back.” She paused beside the wood-pellet grill. “But there are some carrots and hummus on the counter, if you need a snack.”

“`Kay.” Grayson started toward the house.

“Wait for me.” Bryce tossed his beanbag aside and chased after his brother.

After making sure the hopper was full, Tessa ignited the grill.

“I thought I heard voices back here.”

She turned at Dirk’s comment while Nash trotted toward Molly, his tail wagging.

Dirk’s hair was damp and combed back. He’d also traded his work clothes for a heather blue T-shirt and khaki shorts that revealed his prosthetic leg. Yet for as much as she didn’t want to, she found herself staring.

Shake it off, Tessa! He’s a normal guy.

One she’d imagined to be a serial killer a few hours ago. Was that messed up or what?

 

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MY REVIEW:

🌟  🌟  🌟  🌟  🌟

 

An emotionally-moving story from one of this genre's best authors . . . Realistic characters, an awesome canine companion, two curious young boys, and two adults who are still dealing with their own past traumas fill the pages of this inspirational story with faith, hope, and love.

Tessa Wagner and Dirk Matthews have a lot in common although they don't initially know that. When Tessa and her two young sons visit her family's Legacy Ranch for the summer where Dirk is renovating some buildings, their paths cross almost immediately.

Her eldest son, nine-year-old Grayson is a handful of bad attitude and mischief while he is still trying to adjust to life without his father who died two years ago. When Grayson is seen taking a valuable tool off of Dirk's truck, an awkward encounter follows. That's when Tessa and her youngest son, six-year-old Bryce, meet Dirk and his canine companion, Molly, a black-and-white border collie.

Since the tool is damaged and unusable, Dirk offers to have Grayson 'work off' the cost of buying a new tool. Tessa agrees, and through their day-to-day work on the building Dirk and Grayson begin to open up and they both benefit from their time together.

As the summer moves on, it is apparent that Legacy Ranch is a great place for the boys and Tessa. Lots of outside activity time and time spent with their great-aunt and the ranch animals cause the two boys to begin hoping that they can live at the ranch after summer break is over. Tessa begins to feel like a move from the city to the ranch would benefit her little family, and she formulates a plan of action.

As always, a strong point of this book is the author's strong faith thread woven throughout every chapter. This simple fact is one of the reasons I enjoy reaching her stories, but there is always much more for readers to relish—multi-dimensional characters, unique settings, nature, humor, and in this book we have the delightful addition of Molly.

This story is completely clean in language and content. I received a copy of this book from the author as a member of her launch team. All of my opinions and thoughts shared here are solely my own.

 

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PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

Also Available:

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About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching heartwarming romance movies.

Connect with Mindy by visiting MindyObenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of An Unexpected Companion and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 2, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on April 9, 2025. 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 the policies found here.

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

 

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~ WEDNESDAY PICTURE BOOK KIT KAT CAMP ~

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 ~ WEDNESDAY CHILDREN'S

PICTURE BOOK FEATURE ~

--  KIT KAT CAMP NO ELECTRONICS  --

AUTHOR KATHY DIXON DIE

  

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics by Kathy Dixon Dye, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

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About the Book

 

Title:  Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics
Author:  Kathy Dixon Dye
Publisher:  Kit Kat Press
Release Date:  April 14, 2024
Genre:  Children's Picture Book, Fiction

In a world filled with gadgets and gizmos, where screens glow brighter than starry nights, one extraordinary grandmother, Kit Kat, is on a mission to ignite the spark of imagination in her beloved grandchildren. Join author Kathy Dye in this heartwarming children's book as she unveils the enchanting world of Kit Kat Camp, a delightful tale of love, laughter, and the magic of childhood. 

With a twinkle in her eye and a treasure trove of wisdom, Kit Kat embarks on a grand adventure to teach her grandchildren a timeless lesson: "No Electronics." She knows that the power to dream, create, and explore lies within their own minds, waiting to be set free. Through the pages of this captivating story, Kit Kat lovingly guides her young charges on a journey of discovery, encouraging them to trade screens for skies filled with possibilities. 

In Kit Kat Camp, readers of all ages will be transported to a world where imagination knows no bounds. Kathy Dye, a retired teacher and devoted grandmother, weaves a charming narrative that not only entertains but also inspires. As Kit Kat and her grandchildren embark on whimsical escapades, young minds will be fueled with the boundless energy of creativity, reminding us all that the greatest adventures can be found within the depths of our own imaginations. 

This heartwarming tale is a call to action for grandparents, parents, and children alike, reminding us of the profound importance of nurturing the imaginative spirit within our little ones. Kit Kat Camp is the first installment in what promises to be an enchanting series of stories, each brimming with life lessons and the magic of childhood. 

Join Kit Kat and her cherished grandchildren on a journey to a world where imagination reigns supreme, and where the bonds of family grow stronger through the power of storytelling. Discover a world where laughter is contagious, creativity knows no limits, and love is the guiding star. Kit Kat Camp is the perfect reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones we create in our minds. 

Embark on a magical adventure with Kit Kat, and let Kit Kat Camp inspire your family to unplug, dream big, and cherish the moments that matter most. 

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MY REVIEW: 

 

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 

A colorful and engaging picture book that will entertain the entire family!

Kit Kat is the grandmother of the narrator—Zoey—and her cousins, Zeek and Zeph. She has invited her grandchildren to her house for 'Kit Kat Camp' this summer.

When the trio arrives at Kit Kat's home, she informs them that they'll be doing new things at camp. That sounds fun to the youngsters until she tells them the one rule they must follow at camp . . . no electronics!

As the shock of this rule wore off, they soon start whining and trying to change her mind to give them at least a little bit of time of their electronics each day. Kit Kat stands firm.

The next morning Kit Kat encourages the children to use their imaginations to think of ways to use recyclable materials and craft supplies to create something to use to go on an adventure in space. As the children begin brainstorming ideas their enthusiasm increases dramatically. They make their rocket ships and create new memories while taking a trip to space. That evening the four of them go outside to count stars in the night sky.

Illustrations hint at three more adventures the cousins take as the week goes on. A surprise twist at the end of the story will make readers of all ages smile.

The author's warm, welcoming, affectionate tone makes this a 'read it again' picture book for children in pre-school through primary grades. The illustrations are bright and colorful and will engage youngsters and stimulate their own desire to create some of the projects shown in the book.

This book is completely clean in language and content. I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.

 🌎🌕🌙☀️🌌🚀🌍✂️🖌️🎨📕🌎

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Also Available

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About the Author

Kathy Dye, a retired elementary school teacher with a Master's in Education, knows the secret to captivating young minds. Her years of nurturing creativity in her students kindled a fervor for storytelling. Drawing from her rich experience as a teacher, mother, and grandmother, Kathy crafts enchanting tales that resonate with children of all ages. With every word she writes, she invites readers on a journey into a world of imagination, wonder, and boundless curiosity. Kathy's books are more than stories; they're cherished moments of shared joy and learning. Explore her enchanting tales and let your imagination soar!

Connect with Kathy by visiting kathydyeauthor.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, a paperback copy of Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics, and the related activity book!

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Kit Kat Camp: No Electronics, and the related activity book!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 1, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 8, 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 only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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

 

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~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE GREEN PASTURES ~

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~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~

--  'GREEN PASTURES'  --

 AUTHOR PATRICIA JOHNS 

 

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Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Green Pastures by Patricia Johns, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

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About the Book

 

Title:  Green Pastures
Series:  The Amish of Shepherd's Hill #1
Author:  Patricia Johns
Publisher:  Bethany House Publishers
Release Date:  March 18, 2025
Genre:  Amish Romance

Tabitha Schrock's return to Lancaster County shakes the foundations of her family and community. After her departure during rumspringa and a recent divorce, Tabitha faces the challenge of reintegrating into Amish society while pursuing her dream of working as a veterinarian. Meanwhile, her sister Amanda, whose own prospects were dimmed by Tabitha's leaving Shepherd's Hill, decides to seize her chance at love by pursuing a man with a shadowed past. And their youngest sister, Rose, despite her beauty and romantic hopes, faces the harsh realities of matrimony, grappling with the weight of vows made before Gott and her community. 

As the sisters navigate the intricacies of love, faith, and tradition, they are bound by their commitment to uphold their Amish way of life. But as they strive to keep their promises, how much are they willing to sacrifice to remain true to themselves and their community? 

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EXCERPT:

Tabitha was home, an Amish woman in good standing once more. Most lapsed Amish who left the faith didn’t return, so Tabitha knew she was a reason for celebration. And even though this work of setting a broken bone was exactly the same as she’d done on Englischer farms in her last two years as a veterinarian, squatting here in her cape dress, her gray work apron smeared with dirt and mud, she felt like she’d shrugged off a blanket of constant low- level anxiety and she could finally breathe.

Her heart was in the lush green pastures, the simple Amish kitchens, the earnest belief in Gott’s goodness, and the low sound of a cappella singing on Service Sundays. Her faith had begun out here in Amish country, and exploring the outside world hadn’t brought any of the satisfaction that she’d hoped to find. Freedom had proved reckless, and home was a safe haven where rules protected them and the community pulled close together to take care of one another.

 

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MY REVIEW: 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A moving and inspirational story about an Amish community filled with flawed, scarred individuals and families and their quest to move past their painful pasts to discover the blessings God has in store for them . . .

This story centers on the three sisters in the Schrock Family of Shepherd's Hill in Lancaster County. The oldest sister, Tabitha, is a licensed large-animal veterinarian who is returning to the family after ten years of living as an Englischer. She is divorced, so she is facing a life as a single woman as she will not be allowed to remarry according to the Amish ordnung. Tabitha's return to the family home has been an adjustment for everyone—especially Amanda.

Amanda, age twenty-seven is the middle sister. She still lives at the family home with her very strict widowed father. She is currently single, but has made a goal for herself to marry someone from the community when she finds him and falls in love. I thoroughly enjoyed this thread from the story because this strong-willed young woman has an untraditional approach to finding her future mate.

Rose is the youngest sister and has been married to a man from their community for two years. She works hard to keep a fine Amish home for him, but something seems to be missing in their relationship.

Reading about the veterinary work Tabitha does with the assistance of Amanda and Rose captured my interest because I'm a big fan of the 'All Creatures Great and Small' series by James Herriot. This is the first Amish fiction I've read where there was a female veterinarian.

Since I don't want to share any more of the wealth of hidden treasures in this book, I will end my review by saying that the faith thread woven throughout the story is strong and inspiring.

The book is completely clean in language and content. I received a copy of the book from the publisher through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.

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PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Baker Publishing Group | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

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About the Author

Patricia Johns is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than 50 books. She writes Amish fiction with tight communities, outspoken heroines, and the handsome, rugged men who fall in love with them. She lives in Alberta, Canada, with her husband and son.

Connect with Patricia by visiting patriciajohns.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a print copy of Green Pastures!

(1) additional winner will receive a print copy of Green Pastures!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 18, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 25, 2025. 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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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

🌿🍅🍆🍓🐎🐄🐓🐖🐶🐑🐐🌿