Friday, April 25, 2025

"The Other Sister" by Jessica R. Patch

About the Book

Title: The Other Sister
Author: Jessica R. Patch
Publisher: Love Inspired Trade
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Genre: Thriller, Domestic Thriller, Psychological Thriller

She thought she was the only one lying about her identity. Until she stepped into her sister’s life.

Charlotte Kane has always dreamed of a different life, one where she isn’t living paycheck to paycheck. An existence worlds away from the chaos of her own. Then her estranged mother dies, and Charlotte makes a stunning discovery—she has an identical twin who was given up for adoption.

Acelynn Benedict is polished, successful and seems to have everything Charlotte yearns for—a wealthy, doting family in Savannah, a handsome boyfriend, a great career. She’s just as surprised as Charlotte to learn she has a sister. But when tragedy hits and Charlotte is forced to assume Acelynn’s identity in a desperate moment, she uncovers something altogether darker…

No one in her sister’s life is quite who they seem to be. And every discovery leads Charlotte deeper into a web of deadly secrets. Charlotte may have wanted Acelynn’s life, yet now that she’s living it, she wants out. But if she reveals the truth about herself, it will mean returning to her old life—and she’s already a dead woman there.

Also Available

Her Darkest Secret

My Thoughts

I found this book to be well written. It had some difficult subjects and some twisted, evil characters, but there was a light and good as well. Evil didn't get the last word. I wanted to keep reading and to read faster so I could know what was happening and who the "then" passages were about. I would think I had something figured out and then there would come a twist and I was completely wrong! The biblical faith thread wasn't as easy to see as in some books, but it was there and Charlotte learned it wasn't just "heirloom" but "faith". I look forward to reading more books by Jessica R. Patch.

About the Author

Jessica R. Patch

Publishers Weekly Bestselling Author, Jessica R. Patch has penned over 27 novels and is known for her dry wit and signature twists whether she’s penned a romantic suspense or a dark, twisty thriller. When she’s not getting into fictional mischief with her characters, you can find her cozy on the couch in her mid-south home reading books by some of her favorite authors, down the street at the Mexican restaurant, or collecting recipes to amazing dishes she’ll probably never cook.

Connect with Jessica by visiting jessicarpatch.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to her email newsletter "Patched In" updates and receive a FREE short thriller.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of The Garden Girls & a $20 Amazon gift card!

The Other Sister giveaway JustRead Tours

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 22, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 29, 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.

Enter Giveaway

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

"The Wanderer’s Legacy" by Natasha Woodcraft -- Author Interview

About the Book

Book: The Wanderer’s Legacy (The Wanderer Series Book Three. It can be read as a standalone.)

Author: Natasha Woodcraft

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release date: April 10, 2025

Adah lives trapped between the life she yearned for and the life she chose. Childless and desperate, she’s failed to produce an heir for her once-devoted husband, Lamech. As his love turns to obsession and control, Adah finds herself drawn to whispered legends of a mysterious Wanderer.

When Lamech takes a second wife, Adah’s world shatters – sending her fleeing to her family home. There, a fragile sense of freedom awakens long-buried hopes. But her body hides a secret that will propel her back into the heart of danger.

As survival becomes a daily challenge, can a legend offer her the salvation she craves? Or does someone else hold the power to help her dwell in safety?

Click here to get your copy!

Author Interview

1. Do you consider yourself a plotter or a pantser (or a hybrid)?
Something in-between. I have a rough plot outline in mind when I write, but I don’t plan
everything. Rather, my characters drive the story forward. When planning I consider, what are
their limitations and the lies they're telling themselves? How is God going to shine truth into their
lives that will transform them?
I think in dialogue, so while I’m writing the book, conversations will flow in my head and I’ll get
them down as quickly as possible. Then the characters will keep talking while I’m doing the
dishes or the laundry, or walking the dog, and I’ll have to quickly voice memo the conversations
and write it down later! So yeah, those pesky characters really do control the process. Ha ha.

2. What is your favorite part about writing?
I love drafting the original story, and I like to do this in chunks, so I can really absorb myself into
the ancient world I’m writing about and get to know my characters. I’m not great at writing in
small bursts, so I try to set aside a week a month where I just write – note the word try! Life
often takes over! I also love editing and perfecting the words.

3. What is your least favorite part about writing?
The afterwards. I’m not great at talking about my books. I love them, but I’m an introvert in real
life, and I have to step outside my comfort zone a lot to do any kind of promotion.

4. What is your writing space like?
I normally write at a desk, though I’ll often draft sitting on the sofa as I’m less distracted that
way. My view is out over my garden. I live in a farmhouse in Lincolnshire, UK, so from my
window, I can see our orchard of fruit trees, our field, and the barn where our goats are. Animal
antics feature a lot in my stories, and The Wanderer’s Legacy has some very naughty goats in
it!

5. Where do you get your ideas for your books?
My books are set in Biblical times, exploring the stories of lesser-known or obscure Bible
characters. They often deal with tough things, considering God’s redemptive purposes for
messy people, just like me.
This one is about Lamech, Adah and Zillah in Genesis 4. It considers how one man could get to
the point of openly admitting to murder. Lamech is a descendant of Cain, the first murderer, but
where Cain hid his crime, Lamech admitted it. Why?

6. Do bits of yourself/friends show up in your characters?
All my books contain a truth that God has revealed to me for a season. For example, The
Wanderer’s Legacy is based on Psalm 4:8, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone,
Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Adah’s life is really tough, and she must learn to trust that God
is looking out for her and not try to make her own way. My characters all begin believing a
spiritual lie, and their journey is one of finding the truth and drawing closer to the Father.
Whenever I am writing or releasing a book, I always feel that truth being tested in my own life,
and I have to spend a lot of time on my knees.

If readers would like to sample my writing, they can sign up my newsletter here
https://natashawoodcraft.com/subscribe They’ll get a free novella for signing up, and I send
monthly emails with doses of encouragement and writing news.

About the Author

Natasha Woodcraft lives in the UK with her family of boys and menagerie of animals. She holds an honours degree in Theology and believes stories have power to communicate deep truth and transform lives. Her novels explore God’s redemptive purposes for ordinary, messy people living in biblical times.

More from Natasha

I wrote The Wanderer’s Legacy because I believe stories have the power to communicate deep truths and transform lives, and Bible stories are no exception! Lamech, the first man to have two wives, features way back in Genesis 4, after Cain & Abel and before Noah. It’s not even a story, really, it’s a little poem stuck at the end of a chapter. What is it doing there, and what can it teach us about God’s goodness during a really dark time in humanity’s history?

That’s what this novel is about. It was an excuse to engage deeply with that story and the result is full of biblical truth that I hope will draw the reader closer to Jesus, understanding how his redemptive purposes are woven through the fabric of the whole Bible, even obscure little poems that almost feel like a sidenote.

Rather than telling you more, I’m just going to share the opening with you, to give you a taster…

“Adah presses her back to the pillar, squeezing into its evening shadow. Her heavy breathing is almost as loud as the heartbeat pummelling in her head. Surely someone will hear?

Her chance to escape diminishes with every moment of delay. She is a desert jerboa – alert, aware of every sight and smell, yet frozen in place as she awaits her predator’s pounce.

Azurak should be occupied. Her son arranged it when she pleaded with him on hands and knees, eyes streaming in desperation. But Adah is sure she hears him. His rasping breath and distinct blood-soaked-campfire smell linger, fusing her feet to the ground.

Unless it’s someone worse than Azurak. Perhaps her husband will find her.”

Blog Stops

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 10 (Author Interview)

Fiction Book Lover, April 11 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 11

Simple Harvest Reads, April 12 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 13

Artistic Nobody, April 14 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, April 15

Guild Master, April 16 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, April 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 17

Vicky Sluiter, April 18 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 19

For the Love of Literature, April 20 (Author Interview)

Devoted Steps, April 21

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 22 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, April 23 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Natasha is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54196

Monday, April 21, 2025

"It’s Fight Night: Lessons For Men On Samson’s Fight" by Todd Woodfill -- Author Interview

About the Book

Book: It’s Fight Night: Lessons For Men On Samson’s Fight

Author: Todd Woodfill

Genre: Men’s Bible Study

Release date: October, 2024

It’s Fight Night: Lessons For Men on Samson’s Fight uses the story of Samson to challenge men to examine their lives through the lens of strength and weakness. Designed for personal or group study, this Bible study delves into the complexities of Samson’s journey, asking men to reflect on their God-given strengths and areas of vulnerability. By exploring themes of divine purpose, failure, and redemption, this study invites men to seek guidance from God as they grow in faith and understand their true potential. Become a warrior, step into the ring and discover timeless lessons on strength, weakness, and grace.

Click here to get your copy!

Author Interview

1. Why did you choose to write about this particular topic?
The inspiration behind Fight Night came from one of the most challenging
seasons of my life. I was navigating a major health scare that had me and
my family believing I might only have a short time left on this earth. In that
season of uncertainty, I was forced to take a hard look at my faith, my
purpose, and the legacy I was leaving behind. It was a time of deep
reflection, where I had to confront my own weaknesses, my struggles, and
even my doubts.
As I wrestled with these questions, I found myself drawn to the story of
Samson. His life was one of immense strength, yet also of devastating
weakness. He was chosen by God, set apart for a divine purpose, yet time
and again, he made choices that led to his downfall. And yet—despite his
failures—God still used him in a mighty way. That truth hit me hard. It
reminded me that no matter how much we struggle, no matter how many
times we fall, God is never done with us. He can redeem even our worst
moments and use them for His glory.
Through this, I felt an undeniable calling to help men examine their own
lives in the same way—to look at their strengths, their weaknesses, and their
purpose through God’s eyes. Too many men are walking around feeling
disqualified, burdened by their past mistakes or unsure of how to step into
their God-given calling. Fight Night was written to challenge men to step
into the ring, to face their battles head-on, and to understand that real
strength comes not from physical power, but from surrendering to God.
This book isn’t just about Samson—it’s about all of us. It’s about every man
who has ever questioned whether he’s good enough, strong enough, or
capable enough to be the leader, husband, father, or warrior God has called
him to be. My prayer is that Fight Night helps men see that their fight isn’t
over, that God is still working in them, and that through Him, they can rise
up and live with boldness, purpose, and faith.

2. How do you balance writing time with other things?
Balancing writing with everything else in my life requires discipline and
intentionality. I schedule my days carefully, making sure that time-sensitive
responsibilities are handled while also prioritizing my personal fitness,
health, and spiritual growth. Writing isn’t something I leave to chance—I
carve out specific time blocks to focus on it, just like I do with any other
important commitment.
That said, sometimes inspiration strikes, and I find myself working late into
the night, fully immersed in the process. While I try to stick to planned time
windows, I also recognize that creativity doesn’t always operate on a
schedule. When the words are flowing, I lean into it. But overall, it’s about
staying organized and making sure that writing fits into my life without
taking away from the other areas that matter—my faith, my family, and my
ministry.

3. How long does the researching stage usually take?
The amount of time I spend researching a topic for any of my books,
including Fight Night varies, but it’s extensive. I first develop the structure of
the book, then dive much deeper into each section. Once a chapter is
written, I don’t just move on—I meticulously go back over it anywhere
from 10 to 30 times, refining how the main theme is being addressed.
Beyond traditional research, prayer plays a critical role in my process.
While I continuously pray during writing, before my editor or anyone else
reads a chapter, I take time to specifically ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. I
seek clarity on whether anything needs to be changed, added, or removed.
Only when I feel peace about a chapter do I move forward.
When you add it all up, I can easily spend 50 to 200 hours researching a
single topic, ensuring that every lesson in Fight Night is biblically sound,
impactful, and speaks directly to the hearts of men seeking to grow in faith.

4. What is your writing area like?
My writing area is designed to help me stay focused and productive. I keep
my desk neat and organized, ensuring that everything I need is within reach
but not cluttered. Peace and quiet are essential for me, so I intentionally
create an environment free from distractions. That means no unnecessary
noise, no clutter, and no interruptions.
I also like to have a few things around that keep me grounded and
inspired—maybe a Bible, a notepad for jotting down ideas, and sometimes a
energy drink to keep me going. Writing requires deep focus, especially when
working through complex themes like those in Fight Night, so I do my best to
create a space that allows me to think clearly and stay in the zone.

5. Do you think reading helps you with writing?
Yes, I absolutely believe reading helps with writing. For me, reading is not
just about gaining knowledge but also about learning how to communicate
ideas effectively. Writers like Max Lucado, Lee Strobel, and Timothy Keller
have had a significant influence on my approach to writing. Their ability to
blend deep theological insight with practical application has helped shape
how I convey messages in Fight Night.
Reading also sharpens my ability to structure thoughts, build compelling
narratives, and engage readers in a way that challenges and encourages
them. Whether it’s studying scripture, diving into theological works, or even
reading biographies of great leaders, every book I read adds another tool to
my writing arsenal.

About the Author

Todd Woodfill is a modern-day Renaissance man whose life could be inspirational if it didn’t so closely resemble a comedy sketch. Married to his absolutely amazing, beautiful, intelligent, and talented wife Holly for a whirlwind 30 years so far, he couldn’t imagine doing life without her support. With four incredible children and one extraordinary grandchild, who refer to Todd as Dad, Papa, dork, old timer, and weirdo, Todd has been blessed far more than he deserves.

Passionate about mental health and suicide prevention, men’s ministries, Legos, boxing, and pursuing God, Todd is a man of many talents and clearly a master of none. But who else can seamlessly switch from being a Jordan sneaker connoisseur to a boxing enthusiast, all while building men’s ministries and helping those with mental health challenges. Heck, this guy can be found passionately discussing the virtues of mental wellness, only to break into a joyful song from a Disney classic, spreading cheer like a modern-day Mary Poppins with a passion for Christ. His life is a whirlwind of laughter, love, and an unshakable faith, making him the ultimate blend of humor and heart in a world that often takes itself too seriously.

More from Todd

Men, it’s time to step into the ring! Todd Woodfill’s new book, It’s Fight Night: Lessons For Men On Samson’s Fight, is officially here-and it’s not just a book; it’s a challenge to reclaim your strength, confront your weaknesses, and discover the warrior God created you to be.

Using the story of Samson as a backdrop, this study invites you to explore themes of strength, weakness, purpose, and redemption. Whether you’re diving in solo or in a small group with you brothers in Christ, this book is designed to help you reflect deeply on your journey as a man of faith. You’ll be encouraged to embrace your God-given potential, find hope in the face of failure, and live boldly for Christ.

What to Expect:

Discover the divine purpose in your strengths AND your struggles.
Learn how to fight like Samson-but live with the grace of Christ.
Build up your faith and deepen your connection to God alongside other men.

Are You Ready for the Fight?

This more than just a book launch-this is the kickoff to an incredible journey! Todd is hitting the road for the Fight Night Book Tour, bringing these lessons to life through interactive discussions, powerful testimonies, and real talk about what it means to walk boldly as a man of God today.

About the Author:

Todd Woodfill is a man blessed beyond measure and proof that God has a sense of humor. From being a husband to his incredible wife, Holly, for 30+ years, to raising for amazing kids and a grandchild who alternately call him “Papa” and “that old weirdo,” he’s been living a wild, grace-filled adventure.

Todd is passionate about men’s ministries, mental health advocacy, Legos, and boxing-yes, he is a man of layers like Shrek. You might catch Todd talking about Jordan sneakers one moment, throwing a jab at the heavy bag the next, or surprisingly belting out a Disney tune with unapologetic joy. But his heart is always centered on helping men find God’s purpose in their lives.

Join the Fight!

Follow the tour schedule, grab a copy of the book, and let’s get ready to rumble-with faith as our foundation. God has incredible things in store, and Todd can’t wait to share this journey with you.

Stay tuned for book tour dates near you!

Let’s grow together, brothers. The bell’s ringing-are you ready to step into the ring?

#ItsFightNight #ChristianMen #MensMinistry #BibleStudy #SamsonLessons #WarriorsForHisGlory #StrengthInFaith

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 14

Vicky Sluiter, April 15 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 16

For the Love of Literature, April 17 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, April 18

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 19 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 20

Blossoms and Blessings, April 21 (Author Interview)

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, April 22

Stories By Gina, April 23 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, April 23

Artistic Nobody, April 24

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, April 25 (Author Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, April 25

Guild Master, April 26

A Reader’s Brain, April 27 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Todd is giving away the grand prize of a $100 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.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54200

Saturday, April 19, 2025

"Our Trustworthy God" by Sarah K. Howley -- Author Interview

About the Book

Book: Our Trustworthy God: How Much God Loves You, Joyfully Engages with You, and Trusts You

Author: Sarah K. Howley

Genre: Bible Study

Release date: March 28, 2025

Have you ever felt like in life’s most challenging moments, trusting God can be a struggle—even impossible? What if you knew that God not only invites you to trust him but is trustworthy himself and trusts you in return? Our Trustworthy God warmly welcomes you into a deeper understanding of the mutual relationship he longs to have with you, one built on love, trust, and active engagement.

With your guide, Sarah K. Howley—founder of InspiritEncourage, author, and speaker—you will walk through those difficult moments when trust feels scary, discovering how God’s faithfulness shines brightest in your darkest times. Through rich, Scripture-based insights, Sarah unpacks why God is always trustworthy and how his boundless love continually works for your good.

Through this study, you’ll find:

A deeper awareness of God’s active love and trust in your everyday life
Confidence in God’s unwavering faithfulness, even when challenges arise
Practical steps to strengthen your relationship with God, built on mutual trust
Encouragement to openly confront doubts and questions about your faith
Guidance on how to live as a trustworthy person, reflecting God’s faithfulness in your life

Our Trustworthy God explores the incredible truth that God trusts you, reminding you that your relationship with him is neither one-sided nor blind but vibrant and deeply mutual. You’ll be invited to reflect on what it truly means to live in faithful connection with your loving God despite the pains of life and evils of the world.

Approachable yet deeply rooted in Scripture, this study is perfect for individuals or groups seeking to strengthen their faith and experience the joy of walking in a two-way relationship with the God who loves and trusts you.

Click here to get your copy!

Author Interview

1. Why did you choose to write about this particular topic?
When I got the idea for this book, I was reading about God trusting us. For some reason, I had
always focused on trusting God – but never the reciprocal. When I truly understood that God
trusts me, it changed the way I viewed challenges and my mission. I knew God trusted me in
what I was doing and how I was doing things. That gave me such confidence and drew me
closer to Him like never before. I hope readers have the same response to this book!

2. What is your writing area like?
I have a pretty typical desk set up in an office area at home. I also have lighting and a
microphone for any teaching calls and video companions that I need to work on. To the left of
my desk is a big bookcase with lots of my research texts and materials. I use a lot of online
references now but still like to have books at hand if I can.

3. How long does the researching stage usually take?
Once I get an idea, it usually marinates for a while, up to 6 months or even a year. During the
marinade, I usually read other things around the same topic to expand my understanding. I am
not actively researching in this stage, but let ideas come together. Usually, the idea starts with
something that I have read. That may be from the Bible, or it may be from another author or
theologian.
When I am actively planning and researching a book or series, I begin with all research. That
may be a week, it may be two or three.
Once I set aside the time to write the book, I start with an outline and continue to research
chapter by chapter as I write. Some chapters take me a day to research and write, others take
three or more. It depends on how well I can articulate the ideas as well as the imagery or stories
that I include.

4. Do you have any usual writing habits?
I often hear people say to write first thing in the morning, before doing anything else. That
doesn’t really work for me or my family. I do best when I start with doing simple tasks that I can
tick off the list, the more the merrier! Once I have ticked several things off my list that have been
on my brain (no, I can’t just make the list and do it after my writing time), I get to work with the
writing and research for the day. This usually means that I write in the afternoon.

5. Do you think reading helps you with writing?
I absolutely believe that reading helps with writing. Reading offers us ideas about how to
explain, how to engage readers, how to craft better writing! Even when the writing is terrible, if
we can see why, we can apply the “fix” to our own writing as well.

About the Author

Sarah K. Howley is the founder of InspiritEncourage and author of several Bible studies. She is a certified counselor by the Chiesa Apostolica in Italia and holds a master’s degree in education. Sarah often travels the world, usually with espresso in hand. Follow her at inspiritencourage.com to keep in touch.

More from Sarah

Our Trustworthy God is the result of years of seeking. I knew I was supposed to trust God… but. I struggled with the buts of trusting God. There are too many to name, and they usually start with “why?” Some examples are when good people have bad things happen to them, why? When someone we love has died too soon, when our best friend gets cancer, when a hurricane strikes and whole towns are lost. For me, it was cancer in the family and even starting my own business. I couldn’t really understand, or “feel” that everything was working out for my good. Trusting God wasn’t exactly an on-command reflex when I thought of these things. It was easier to wonder where God was rather than trust that he IS and will always be here.

But I wanted more than to believe he was here, I wanted to know deeply that God was working for my good, even when all I saw was destruction and evil. So, I spent a year dedicated to digging in and seeking to understand what trusting God really means. I wanted to know how trustworthy God is, all the time. I didn’t want that knowledge to remain in my head, but I wanted it in my heart. I wanted it to be the automatic reflex when bad things happen that I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that God was in that situation and working for my good.

What I found surprised me. Don’t misunderstand, more than ever before, I know God IS with me in every circumstance and he IS working for my well-being. He loves me deeply. What surprised me was that God trusts me as well and his power is unlike anything I could imagine.

A deep discussion of relationship and trusting God is what came out of that search to understand how I could trust the unseen God in an evil world, and I had to share it. Because I know my God is good and he is trustworthy. He is working for your good. He loves you, joyfully engages with you, and he trusts you.