A Very Bookish Easter // My Semi-Biased Review

Nyree moves when she loses her job, hoping to reconnect with herself and her grandmother in time for Easter, but when she stumbles upon a hidden garden, she discovers just how much she’s been missing.
The Prayer Garden by Kelsey Bryant, inspired by The Secret Garden

Felicity goes out of her comfort zone and invites Adam Moore to Easter service, but their business rivalry has him ready to prove her evangelization wrong.
Lilies and Thorns by Abigayle Claire, inspired by Romeo and Juliet

Samuel is haunted by his past and unsettled by the present, but as the Easter season begins, Ellie could show him what his future could be.
An Easter Canticle by Sarah Holman, inspired by A Christmas Carol

Addie hopes for a fresh start when she and her family move to the mountains to live with Grandfather, but some wounds seem too deep to heal, even at Easter.
Addie’s Mountain by Kate Willis, inspired by Heidi

Four classic-inspired Easter stories full of hope, faith, and the miracle of resurrection. (from Goodreads)

My Review 💖

As a longtime fan of my fellow anthology authors, I was very excited to read their stories, and they did not disappoint! Here are my (slightly biased) mini-reviews…

The Prayer Garden
This book was so beautiful, with quintessential spring vibes, natural Christian themes, and some really sweet relationships. Also, talk about a meet-cute. 😉 The end truly brought tears to my eyes.

Representation: depression, dementia.

CW: medical facilities, emotional distress.

Lilies and Thorns
I highly enjoyed the inherent drama of this one, lol, which is not usual for me. It started out seeming on the way to an expected, Hallmark movie place, but I’ve never been so happy to be wrong, and I’m a huge fan of where the story ended.

Representation: social anxiety.

CW: mentions of loss to cancer, dysfunctional family relationships, shaded truth.

An Easter Canticle
This one was much different than I expected, and I loved it. The “Scrooge” character was actually quite loveable, and I appreciated seeing him deal with the fallout of his life changes. The retreat center was a lovely setting, and I’m excited to read the other stories about it now.

Representation: mixed-race heritage, celiac disease.

CW: medical emergencies.

Addie’s Mountain
Ooo, that’s my story! I don’t have much to say except there’s a lot of spring vibes, some church trauma, a really cute neighbor boy, lots of baking, and a bookish main character (of course).

Representation: Jewish heritage, anxiety, chronic illness, deafness.

CW: anxiety symptoms including an attack.

10 Tips for Running a Book Table

I ran a book table at a vendor fair this past weekend. 👀 (“For the first time in foreverrrrrrr!” 🎶) And it was pretty fun and went pretty well. 😉

I thought I’d share some pictures under the guise of sharing tips with y’all. 😉 Mwahahaa.

1. Order stock early!

I’ve had a few scary events where my books have arrived literally the day before, and I won’t let that happen again if at all possible. If you’re ordering through KDP, I recommend giving yourself three weeks at minimum for the books to print, ship, and arrive. If you’re ordering during a busy season (mid-summer and holidays seem to be the worst) or this is your first run of this book so it may not go smoothly, go ahead and give yourself even more time. You won’t regret it. 😉

The view from behind the table…

2. Pack yourself an emergency bag!

That’s extra change, pens, tape, scissors, granola bars, anything you (or your helpers) are possibly going to need. If this is an all-day event, bring something to do for the slow moments. 😉

3. Bring a cashbox.

It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but this will help you keep track of different bills and feel more secure about your earnings.

4. Use book stands.

I like to get mine from the Dollar Store. They literally last forever, and you can buy a large quantity if needed. They add more visual interest to your table, and if you have display copies people can flip through, it’s even better.

✨ Branding ✨ lol

5. Think about your pens!

Are you going to be signing books? Pick pens that are easy to use, don’t smear, and last for a long time. I love using silver Sharpies for this. Or if you’re not personalizing, you can pre-sign all your books at home.

6. Price stickers aren’t necessary.

But they can look extra professional. 😉 This time I went with a picture frame “menu” just for ease and cost reasons. Sometime I’ll get myself some gorgeous reusable stickers. 😉

I was selling cupcakes too because I like to complicate things… 😉 (Photo credit: Emma)

7. Choose packaging wisely!

If this is an all-day or outdoor event, you may want to provide customers with packaging to protect their new book. Whether that’s a bag, tissue paper, Kraft paper, etc…. And cute packaging that shows off your branding is kinda a bonus. 😉 I chose tissue paper which it ended up being wayyy too windy for. 🙈

8. Step it up with business cards!

These are actually pretty easy to make,(especially with templates from Canva) and print at Staples. Don’t include so much info it’s cluttered, just the basics like your name, where to follow you, where to find/buy your other books, etc.

Canva template + own aesthetic + Staples print center = voila!

9. Be strategic with your booth decor.

Choose items that add visual interest, practical use, or aesthetic to your brand/books themselves without being cluttered. This can be a huge way to set your booth apart from the others and encourage customers to check it out. 😉 It’s also pretty fun.

Some decorations are mine, some are my fabulous mom’s.

10. Personalize thoughtfully!

And finally, if you’re personalizing books and want to ensure you get the customer’s name right, have them write it on a scrap of paper for you to copy.

I hope you enjoyed seeing a peek into my booth and get to do one of your own sometime! 💖

Meant to Bee by Storm Shultz // Review

Can accidentally becoming a beekeeper lead to love?

Single mom Cordy Brown can’t catch a break. Not only does she lose her job, but the quaint English cottage she pools her savings to purchase is the very definition of a money pit. To top it off, a delivery man appears on her doorstep with a shipment of bees and announces she’s their new caretaker! Could life get any more complicated?

Ronan Thomson is only in England for one reason: to drag his underage brother back to Ireland for end-of-year exams. He quickly learns, however, that nothing about this will be simple and he finds himself holding a baby goat on Cordy’s doorstep. Falling for a beautiful American is easy. Ronan’s problems lie in the overabundance of animals, his stubborn brother, and the unexpected guest from Cordy’s past.

Can Cordy and Ronan overcome all the obstacles standing between them? After all, some things just feel meant to bee. (from Goodreads)

My Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book… *sighs happily* From the cover inward, the cozy British town vibes were perfectly blended with the story of a woman struggling in life. I rooted for Cordy, grew frustrated with her at times, hung on every word of her learning beekeeping and other skills, delighted with her over Poppy, and waited with bated breath to see how she would handle forgiveness.

(Which, the forgiveness storyline was a breath of fresh air! It acknowledged boundaries and left no room for disrespect/abuse while encouraging to forgive. I haven’t seen another book quite this nuanced.)

The romance was super sweet. The story pacing did seem to speed up halfway through, but I grew used to it and loved every moment. I especially enjoyed how respectful yet honest they were with each other, and I was hardcore rooting for them.

Don’t get me started on how much I loved the pro-life after birth themes and the supportive side characters. 👏👏

CW: harassment, lying side character, judgemental local. Some kissing.

I can’t wait to read more of this author’s work, and I love the heart you can clearly see shining through every page. 💛

A Very Bookish Easter Is Here! (+Thank Yous)

IT’S HEREEEEEEE!!!! Our anthology is finally born, and ebook copies are going out with paperbacks soon to follow. 😍😍😍

I hope you enjoy diving into this anthology this Easter season. 💖

I’m so overwhelmed with joy to be a part of this (and to be back as an author!), that I’m honestly out of words and emotions except happy dances and hugs. 🤷‍♀️

I think I’ll let my acknowledgments from the novella speak for me.

The author wishes to thank…

My Joshua—for your support, encouragement, and adorable face while I was trying to concentrate at the coffee shop that one time.

The Very Awesome Mikayla—for letting me send you chapters for motivation and for giving me the cupcake mascot.

Lillian Keith—for your encouraging comments on my blog throughout the whole process.

My A Very Bookish sisters, Sarah, Kelsey, and Abigayle—for having me as part of this anthology. It means so much to be in your company. 

My fabulous beta-reading team, Perry, Rosy, Kaitlyn, Havelah, and Rebekah—for your enthusiasm, thoughtful questions, and grammar skills. It’s been a delight to have you on my team. 

Kelsey—for the always amazing editing and encouragement.

Birkenfeld, Oregon—for being such a beautiful, dynamic place to grow up. Your people and your flowers fill the world with color.

God—for resurrecting me.

May hope invade your heart! 💖

Manuscript for Murder by Chautona Havig // Review

Alexa Hartfield. Author, local celebrity, fashion connoisseur. She chose Fairbury for its close proximity to Rockland, its small town atmosphere, and its low crime rate.

Then someone made her life a literary cliché. A mysterious accident with a light bulb sparked an interesting idea for her latest novel—and for Fairbury’s new serial killer. The first replication infuriated her. The second left an even worse taste in her mouth. The third blasted more than her self-confidence, and the fourth beat her down so far she’s considering giving up writing completely.

Who is killing Fairbury’s citizens, and furthermore, why and how are they using her novels to do it? (from Goodreads)

My Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Is there a way to sue for sleep loss? This book was too good, too suspenseful, and too intriguing for me to stop reading, and I must protest by reading the rest of the series. 😤😉

Only Chautona Havig could take a quirky, unique character living every author’s secret dream and imbue it with such deep themes while making it still quite fun. My heart broke as each new layer of Alexa’s backstory and complicated relationships was revealed. I enjoyed the detailed fashion and writing moments, everything about Joe, and how open-hearted Alexa was despite people’s opinions of her.

The mystery was both haunting and fascinating (hence the stolen sleep), and there was one moment that really, really shocked me.

I’m not usually one for series, but I’m hoping to try the other books in this one. 😉

CW: stalking, child neglect, chronic illness, negative family interactions, infertility and a hard backstory to it. Murders happen throughout the book in various ways, including an explosion, but with no graphic details.

My Top 5 Books for Black History Month

Happy Black History month, y’all! I thought I’d share some of my favorite books that have exposed me to culture and history through the power of story. 😉

And as a person with Jewish heritage, I know what it can feel like to have all the available stories reduced to your greatest historical traumas, so I tried to include little-known time periods or books centered on Black joy for a breath of fresh air. 😉

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 by Helaine Becker

I really enjoyed Hidden Figures (and researched the true story afterward), so I was delighted to come across this beautiful picture book biography of Katherine Johnson. I enjoyed the look into her childhood, the amazing illustrations, and the timeline in the back that shared even more details of her life than either the book or movie could fit. I think this is a great introduction to an American hero and inspiring woman. 😉

The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA by Brenda Woods

This was my first introduction to WW2 history outside of European wars, resistance fighters, or homefront stories. The racism and challenges Black GIs faced after coming home from war shouldn’t have shocked me but set in this “idyllic” little town from the perspective of a privileged main character, everything was put into stark perspective. This was definitely a tougher read, but I credit it with “gently” introducing me to less well-known Black history and making me realize there was a lot more I needed to research.

Empowered: How God Shaped 11 Women’s Lives by Catherine Parks

We’ve all heard about Joni Eareckson Tada, Corrie Ten Boom, and Elizabeth Elliot, women of faith who’ve made a great impact on the world and our history, but this collection of short biographies took it even further, including and focusing on Black and Asian women whose stories often go untold. I really enjoyed reading about their lives and how God worked so powerfully through them. I also found all tough topics to be addressed respectfully and age-appropriately, so this is definitely one that could be great for young readers.

The Trouble With Love by Toni Shiloh (and sequels)

I discovered this romance novel mainly through the adorable covers and a desire to read more diversely. I fell completely in love with this swoony, creative world, the strong female friendships that took center stage (sometimes even over the romance!), and the deep spiritual themes that were naturally included. Let’s just say I binged the series as it released and am now a forever fan. 😉 *has one of her newest books sitting on my shelf and another pre-ordered* 😉

Happily Ever Afters by Elise Bryant

I found this book totally by accident when I stumbled upon the author’s Instagram and completely fell in love with the aesthetic. The second book was just releasing, so I of course hunted down the first and gobbled it up. It’s seriously cute and completely lives up to the nerdiness of the cover. A writer MC? With a soft, baker boy love interest? Sign me up! The representation of her anxiety actually helped me recognize and accept my own, so I’ll be forever grateful for that. I have the second book her from the library, and the author’s latest has me severely tempted. 👀

For more book recommendations, check out Toni Shiloh’s Instagram reels and this blog post by Nadine Keels.

Do you have any favorite books about Black history or Black joy? Recommend them in the comments. 😉 My TBR thanks you.

Should We Tell Her? by Lillian Keith // Review

“Mommy’s in Africa,” You kept saying, and you smiled for the first time since Mom hadn’t come home.

And suddenly, I didn’t want that smile to disappear. I didn’t want to hear your pleading voice asking over and over when Mom would come home. And I didn’t want to see the disappointment in your eyes anymore.

When summer turns to tragedy, twelve year old Aspen and her younger sister Wren struggle to cope. But how can they when their youngest sister can’t understand what is happening? Will they be able to pull together to help each other or will they fall apart?” (from Goodreads)

My Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

From the cover onwards, this book was adorable and heartfelt. I was especially delighted by how many illustrations there were (#illustrationsarecool), and they set the tone for the book perfectly.

I really liked the second person point-of-view of the story, and the main concept was properly well-meaning, sweet, and double-edged. Some of my favorite moments were when Aspen realized how important the postcards were to her and why. 😭😭 And any scene in the art shed was great.

I also loved how cute everyone’s names were. 🥺

I spent a lot of the story very frustrated with the adults, but I ended up really liking how that turned out. 😉

CW: Discussions of a traumatic accident (not detailed) and possible death. A few scenes of emotional distress, PTSD, and hospital setting. The story concept is based around a well-meaning lie that is flawed but ultimately justified.

Altogether, I really enjoyed this sweet read, and I think anyone who loves close-knit family stories will too. 💙💜

I need a fairy garden now.

My Guide to the Indie Black Friday Booksale!

So I’ve been a bit M.I.A. lately due to flu and holiday season, but I’m popping in to let you know…

INDIE BOOK BLACK FRIDAY SALE IS HERE!!!

This year there are over 600 titles for free and $0.99, and yes, I’m freaking out. 😉

Historically, I’ve picked up a lot of good books through this sale, and a ton of my most recommended books (everything by Hope Ann, Gift from the Storm, etc.), as well as a few popular series I haven’t tried yet (Ilyon Chronicles and Blades of Acktar, anyone?), are available, so definitely scroll through.

(A few authors like myself might be offering discounted paperbacks through their own sites, I hear. 👀)

Below are just a few recommendations to get you started (but also go buy all the books that I’m always title-dropping), and then I’m sharing my personal shopping list. 😉

(Prices aren’t live yet! And these are not affiliate links.)

The Kate Reading Fiend Recommends…

Two of my new favorite finds this year Should We Tell Her? by Lillian Keith and The Toymaker’s Doll by E.G. Bella, both perfect for all ages.

A Twist of Adventure, #2: Poison Kiss

This humorous and sweet fairytale retelling, A Twist of Adventure by Kendra E. Ardnek (and she has a ton more ENTIRE SERIESES I didn’t know about that I simply must try someday?!!)

I know I’m constantly talking about Hope Ann’s fairytale retelling, but you must simply check out her empathy-superhero standalone Healer’s Bane.

And of course, the first five books in the Kate’s Case Files series by Sarah Holman (there’s even a Christmas one). Perfectly bingeable for winter break. *wink, wink*

Shallows, #1: Shallows

The Perry Kirkpatrick’s pen name’s mermaid trilogy with mental health rep, and deep things, and ADORABLE SHIP. Ahem.

Also, of course, all The Accidental Cases of Emily Abbott by Perry Kirkpatrick, particularly the darling Christmas special. 😉

The Kate Shopping Fiend Is Eyeing…

The Blue of Torches: Ignited

So I actually already have a copy of The Blue of Torches: Ignited by C.R. Kelchner cause we know the author and bought a paperback during release week, but I convinced the author to join so just had to mention this here. 😉

Last Wish

I read the short story version of Last Wish by Valerie Howard when it first released but it looks like she expanded it into a novel??! More to love, I guess, so I’ll be checking this out. 😉

Legends of Light 4: The Stealthmaster’s Shadow

I somehow missed getting this book (take my superfan card) and want to read the next of Hope Ann’s Legends of Light, so I’m going to fix this oversight.

The Mrs. Meade Mysteries #2: The Parting Glass

I really enjoyed my first Mrs. Meade Mystery by Elisabeth Grace Foley, so I’ll definitely be buying another one or three. 😉

Firmament, #7: Eleftheria

Ahhhhhhh, literally one of my most anticipated new releases of all time, and I was super surprised to see it show up on the sale this year. I. will. be. snagging. 👏

Whether or not any of these books are up your alley, there’s really something for everyone (including all my books) so off you browse! (HERE)

Happy reading!

I’m in Love With This Cover…

Today I have a very special cover to share with you… 💙✨

Brooke Riley is finishing up her dystopian trilogy with the final book Here We Stand!

Before I show you the gorgeousness, here’s the synopsis.

Whose side are you on?

War is on the horizon. The resistance is at its weakest. Peter, now forced to be a soldier for the government, tries to feed information to Andre. But when it becomes too dangerous to hide what he’s doing from the watchful eyes of the guards— and Evan— he must decide what he’s willing to risk for the rebellion.

Raegan is fighting hard for healing— physically and emotionally. After losing Peter, her entire world has shifted. But she’s determined now more than ever to get stronger and fight for the truth she believes in. But the battle to heal isn’t easy. She’s faced with a choice; give up, or fight?

A couple of years later, Raegan’s and Peter’s worlds collide once more. As everything is falling apart at the seams around them, they have to decide whose side they’re on. Everything they’ve ever known hangs in the balance.

The gripping finale to the How We Rise trilogy!

And now for the cover…

Prepare yourself…

3…

2…

…1,

Voila!

Okay, but the tree roots, the lighting, the silhouettes. 👏👏 I am so intrigued, and I can’t wait to binge this series when it’s complete. 💙

Follow Brooke on Instagram // Goodreads // Amazon

Mostly Reading, Chance of Writing

I took a hiatus last week from Instagram and Facebook, and between that and finishing up a job, I had a nice time of rest and creativity. 🧡

I finally finished the book I’ve been stuck in for two months (wowza!), then discovered my reading slump was quite over and started reading through some of the indie books I’ve picked up on Kindle.

Crook Q and its supplemental novella Prisoner 120518 (both by Rachel Newhouse) reignited my love for the Red Rain series and kept me up late a couple nights. 😉

For Elise by Hayden Wand was a really cute read for spooky season, and I finally got to experience Should We Tell Her? by Lillian Keith. (*sobs*)

I also started this deep and beautiful remix of Little Women called So Many Beginnings by Bethany C. Morrow. 😍👏 It’s one I need to really savor, so for now it hangs out with the fall decorations a little. 😉

In my plan for the week, I promised myself that I must write, but each day passed with no new words. Until Saturday rolled around and my writing plans were further encouraged by a lovely rainy day, and I completed an outline of my new project. 🧡

How was your week?