An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus

 An Unexpected Companion

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: An Unexpected Companion 

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

Author: Mindy Obenhaus 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: April 1, 2025 

Genre: 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? 

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

Also Available:

Mobility Dog

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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.

Old Bunk House

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My Thoughts

An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus is a sweet story.  I enjoyed getting to know Tessa and her kids, Grayson and Bryce as well as Dirk and his mobility service dog, Molly.  Tessa’s aunt was a delight. Molly is a sweet dog who knows when someone needs her.  I liked seeing Tessa, Dirk, and her boys grow closer over the summer.  I felt for Grayson who obviously had something that was troubling him.  I enjoyed the beautiful descriptions of the ranch and the buildings that Dirk is renovating (I want to live in the converted cabin).  The romance is the slow burn type which suits the story.  Both Dirk and Tessa need to overcome the past before they can embrace the future.  Faith is woven throughout the story with scripture and insights. 

An Unexpected Companion is a story about healing, forgiveness, family, love, hope, and forgiveness.  I hope we get to visit the ranch again and see one of Tessa’s sisters find the right individual for them.  While An Unexpected Companion is the 31^st book in the K-9 Companions series (I believe it is the first book in the Legacy Ranch series), it can be read as a standalone.  An Unexpected Companion is an emotional tale with summer retreat, a sullen son, a guilt-ridden widower, a kindly aunt, ranch renovations, holding onto hope, and a friendly canine. 

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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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An Unexpected Companion is available from Amazon.  Their Texas Christmas Redemption is the second book in the Legacy Ranch series and it will be out on September 30 (I cannot wait to read it). You can find Mindy Obenhaus's other novels here.  Thank you for stopping by today.  I am still on the hunt for a company to fix the insulation and vapor barrier on my home.  I was surprised to discover that a business did not have a phone in their office.  The owner uses his cell phone and his message does not mention the business.  As you can guess, I went on to the next company on my list.  I will return tomorrow with my review of For Sure and Certain I Do Not Love Henry Yoder by Jennifer Spredemann.  I hope that you have a cheerful day.  Do not forget to enter the giveaway!  Good Luck and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

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

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Courting Daniel's Daughter by Mindy Steele

 Courting Daniel's Daughter

Book Summary

Jesse Plank promised to keep a secret. A secret that drove him away from his home eight years ago. But when his father is injured, Jesse must return to help provide for his family. Finding Catherine still the beauty he remembered might convince him to stay.

Becoming Amish wasn’t the same as being born Amish. Thankfully for Catherine Raber, her terrible school years are behind her and life is looking up. That was until the last person she ever wanted to see again arrived in Miller’s Creek. Worse, her father just gave him a job.

My Thoughts

Courting Daniel’s Daughter by Mindy Steele is a sweet story.  I like the author’s friendly writing style which makes the story easy to read.  The point-of-view switches between Catherine and Jesse.  I thought the main characters were developed and realistic.  They were characters with strengths and flaws. The story has family secrets and an individual who is still troubled by childhood bullying.  Jesse fell for Catherine when they were young, but she is being courted by another fellow in the community.  Jesse is hoping to find opportunities at work and at the Raber family farm to show Catherine that he has changed.  Faith is nicely woven into the story.  Courting Daniel’s Daughter has humor, love, family, forgiveness, and faith.  Courting Daniel’s Daughter is the first book in Daniel’s Daughter series. I look forward to returning to Miller’s Creek, Kentucky in Saving Daniel’s Daughter which features Jesse’s friend, Paul Eicher and Catherine’s sister, Rosemary Raber. 

Courting Daniel’s Daughter is available from Amazon and it can be read for free if  you are a member of Kindle Unlimited.  Mindy Steele has Hunting for a Husband coming out June 15 and it is the ninth book in The Heart of the Amish series.  Thank you for stopping by today.  Tomorrow I will be sharing my thoughts on An Unexpected Companion by Mindy Obenhaus.  I am off to find a contractor to install insulation and vapor barrier.  Hurricane Milton destroyed it underneath our home.  I hope it is easier to find a company for this work than for the carport (which should begin work on May 19).  I hope that you have an uplifting day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Amish Country Killer by Mary Alford

 Amish Country Killer

Book Summary

An unsolved mystery…

Seeking the truth could be fatal.

Reopening the investigation of her mother's disappearance puts chief of police Diana Fisher in someone’s lethal sights. As she delves deeper into the mystery, a murderer resurfaces, targeting the Amish community. Detective Micah Nissley, whose fiancée went missing a decade ago, joins forces with Diana to stop the threats and bring the killer to justice. But can they uncover the connection between Diana and the culprit before she becomes the next victim?

My Thoughts

I began reading Amish Country Killer by Mary Alford and, after doing the evening chores, I stayed up late to finish it. I enjoyed all the suspense, action, and mystery.  I followed Diana, Micah, and Kip as they worked to solve the string of murders.  The killer was always one step ahead of them.  I was amazed that Diana and Micah were able to keep going after what they went through (I would want a paid four-week vacation after catching the killer). Kip, Diana’s K9 officer, is clever, brave, and a sweetheart.  

I had fun solving the whodunit. There are twists and turns throughout the story. I never knew what would happen next.  It is a good thing that Diana and Micah had each other to rely on (once Diana learns to trust him that is).  Naturally, with the duo spending considerable time together, it is inevitable that sparks will fly between them. Given the challenges the pair face, Diana and Micah will find their faith indispensable.  I like how the story ended.    Amish Country Killer is an enthralling tale with a narrow escape, hits to the head, a serial killer, teens trapped in a mine, an unexpected find, a trusty canine, a twisted mind, and a tenacious chief of police.

Amish Country Killer is available from Amazon. Want to read the first chapter of Amish Country Killer?  Visit Harlequin and use the Look Inside feature to preview the story. Mary Alford has Framed in Amish Country coming out July 1.  You can find Mary Alford's other novels here.  Thank you for dropping by today.  I will be sharing my thoughts on Courting Daniel's Daughter by Mindy Steele tomorrow.  There are many great books coming out this month (my TBR pile is quite large).  We are currently going through a hot spell in Florida (86 degrees is the high today).  I hope we will have a little more spring before the heat sets in for the summer.  What is the weather like in your area?  Do you have any book recommendations?  I hope that you have a cool day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Essence of Foul Play by Daryl Wood Gerber

 Essence of Foul Play 

Book Summary

Emma Brennan may have her head in a cloud of eucalyptus, but her feet are firmly planted on the ground in breathtaking Carmel, California, as she prepares to open her new spa business, Aroma Wellness. But all the reiki, shiatsu, and massage in the world can’t help her relax when she’s accused of murder . . .

Everything is going smoothly as Emma prepares for the grand opening of the spa. The therapy rooms are painted. The sales shop and café are stocked with meditative and delicious goodies, from essential oils to avocado masks and prickly pear massages. The fountain in the Courtyard of Peace is burbling with good vibrations. In fact, there isn’t a whiff of trouble until that morning when Emma is shocked to learn that a rival spa owner has been bludgeoned . . . with an item from the goodwill basket Emma gave her. Worse, a witness is pointing the finger at Emma . . .

 

With the police treating Emma like she’s the only suspect, and the town’s anti New Age anything posse badmouthing her every step of the way, she’s left with no choice but to conduct her own investigation. Incensed by the accusations but empowered by her cousin, her nana, and her trusted Birman cat, Vivi, Emma reviews the potpourri of possible suspects, determined to uncover the essence of foul play—before she’s cold-pressed for murder . . .

My Thoughts

Essence of Foul Play by Daryl Wood Gerber is the first An Aroma Wellness Mystery.   It is a spin-off from A Fairy Garden Mysteries.  Emma Brennan is opening Aroma Wellness, a spa, in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.  There is a large cast of characters.  The author created a new group of characters for this series and included some of the characters from A Fairy Garden Mysteries (including a fairy or two).  It is challenging to keep track of all of them.   I wish more background had been provided on Emma.  There are things alluded to (a past relationship, her absentee father), but we do not get all the details.  I am sure we will learn more about Emma as the series progresses.  I loved Emma’s adorable and playful Birman cat, Vivi.    

The author provided vivid descriptions of the town along with Emma’s spa, her home, and the beach.    The mystery was underwhelming.  It was a cinch to solve (early in the book).  I was not a fan of the detective who did not appreciate Emma assistance (aka interference). During the story, I did wonder how Emma managed to accomplish so many tasks in a short span of time (interviewing five people in an hour and hire on by the end of the hour is one example—in my head, I envisioned speed interviewing with a time clock going off every ten minutes).  Essence of Foul Play is a nice story, but I wondered why there needed to be another series set in the same town (Carmel-by-the-Sea) with fairies (just curious).  Essence of Foul Play is an aromatic cozy with a gregarious Gran, calm meditations, an alarming murder, essential oils, a busy Birman, and delightful fairies. 

Essence of Foul Play is available from Amazon.  The second book A Literary Dining Mysteries is Murder by the Millions and it comes out October 28, 2025.  You can find Daryl Wood Gerber's other novels here including her delightful A Fairy Garden Mysteries.  Thank you for joining me today.  I hope that you have a cheery day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Seeking Evil by Mary Alford

 Seeking Evil

Book Summary

No one knows where she is. . .

When BAU Agent Sierra Parker's car dies in the middle of nowhere Wyoming, she breaks a critical rule by catching a ride with a kind stranger. This decision leads her straight into the lair of a serial killer, where she discovers she isn't the first victim. Barrels containing the remains of those who went before her line a wall proving none of them escaped their captor. Can Sierra outwit the seasoned killer to save her life, or will she become the latest victim buried in a barrel?

The last Agent Zeke London heard from Sierra was when she told him she needed to get away to figure things out between them. That was over a week ago and his calls have been met with radio silence. Can he do the impossible and locate Sierra in the middle of the mountains before it's too late?

My Thoughts

Seeking Evil by Mary Alford is an intriguing story.  The prologue drew me in, and my interest was held as I progressed through the book. The characters are developed and varied. The mystery was full of suspense and action.  There were several suspects, but one stood out to me (I love solving whodunits).  I was happy to see that my guess was correct during the reveal. Sierra is a courageous woman.  She is smart and tenacious.  Sierra used her training to her advantage.  I imagine that it can be hard holding on to hope as time passes.  I enjoyed the epilogue.  Seeking Evil is the third book in the Hallowed Hall series.  It can be read as a standalone for those who are new to the series like me (it will, though, have you wanting to go back and read the first two books in the series).  Seeking Evil is a captivating tale with missing climbers, romance woes, a creepy killer, troubled team members, disturbing barrels, and a bothered boyfriend. 

Seeking Evil is available from Amazon.  It can be read for free if you are a Kindle Unlimited member.  The first two books in the Hallowed Hall series are Don't Close Your Eyes and The Last to Know (both are available through Kindle Unlimited).  Mary Alford has Amish Country Killer coming out April 1.  You can follow the author on Amazon, and they will send you an email when she has a new book release.  Thank you for popping by today.  I will return tomorrow to share my thoughts on Essence of Foul Play by Daryl Wood Gerber.  I hope that you have a peaceful day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Green Pastures by Patricia Johns

 

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

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?

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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My Thoughts

Green Pastures by Patricia Johns revolves around the three Schrock sisters: Tabitha, Amanda, and Rose. The characters are developed and realistic. I appreciate seeing that Amish people are not perfect. The Amish struggle with the same issues as Englischers (alcoholism, stubborn fathers, gossipy relatives, negative thoughts, infertility, yearning for love, and more) and some problems that are unique to the Amish.  The story is well-written and engaging. I liked that the story had a female Amish veterinarian (a rarity). I do not know how she performed her duties in a dress with an apron and a kapp (I would not have lasted a day in a dress). 

I liked the different story arcs and how they all tied together into one satisfying story. I wish, though, that one sister’s storyline had a better resolution (I cannot tell you because that would be a spoiler). I hope that this sister will be featured in an upcoming book and get the happy ending that she deserves. I like how faith was threaded throughout the book. I finished the story with a smile on my face. Green Pastures is the first installment in The Amish of Shepherd’s Hill series, and I cannot wait for Still Waters to come out at the beginning of November. Green Pastures is a heartwarming tale with a veterinarian sister, marital miseries, a suffering horse, an endearing runt, a bothersome brother, and learning that God is our friend. 

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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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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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Green Pastures is available from Amazon as well as other major retailers (Barnes & Nobles, BAM!, Kobo).  The next book in  The Amish of Shepherd’s Hill series is Still Waters which will be out on November 4. Patricia Johns has An Amish Baby in Her Arms coming out July 29.  It is the first book in Amish Chocolate Shop Brides series.  You can find Patricia Johns other novels here.  

Thank you for joining me today. I am busy taking down my St. Patrick's Day decorations, so I can get my Easter decorations set up.  Painting Easter eggs is the theme for my front yard decorations which I thought was appropos since eggs are too expensive to decorate this year. I have an adorable inflatable arch.  I will share pics as soon as all the decorations are in place. Do not forget to enter the giveaway before you depart. Good Luck! I will return on Tuesday, March 25 with Seeking Evil by Mary Alford. It is the third book in the Hallowed Halls series.  I hope that you have an upbeat day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

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

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner

 A Map to Paradise

Book Summary

1956, Malibu, Something is not right on Paradise Circle.

With her name on the Hollywood blacklist and her life on hold, starlet Melanie Cole has little choice in company. There is her next-door neighbor, Elwood, but the screenwriter’s agoraphobia allows for just short chats through open windows. He’s her sole confidante, though, as she and her housekeeper, Eva, an immigrant from war-torn Europe, rarely make conversation.

Then one early morning Melanie and Eva spot Elwood’s sister-in-law and caretaker, June, digging in his beloved rose garden. After that they don’t see Elwood at all anymore. Where could a man who never leaves the house possibly have gone?

As they try to find out if something has happened to him, unexpected secrets are revealed among all three women, leading to an alliance that seems the only way for any of them to hold on to what they can still call their own. But it’s a fragile pact and one little spark could send it all up in smoke…

My Thoughts

I look forward to reading Susan Meissner’s latest novel each year. I picked up A Map to Paradise to see where the author would take us this year.  I was transported back to 1956 when Hollywood actors, writers, and producers were terrified of being put on the Hollywood blacklist.  A Map to Paradise is a character driven story that moves at a leisurely pace.  The characters are developed with flaws.  I like when the characters are realistic.  The three women (June, Eva, and Melanie) have had ups and downs in their lives (some more than others).

The story was interesting, but it was somewhat predictable with repetitive details.  When someone is digging in a rose garden in the middle of the night, it is obvious what they are doing.  I wish there had been more suspense and action (something to liven up the story).  The story felt flat (reminded me of a flat line on a heart monitor).   At times, the dialogue felt forced (felt like the author was trying too hard).  I liked that June and Eva became friends.  I found the epilogue to be a letdown.  I have read all of Susan Meissner’s books (I have been hooked since I read “A Lady in Waiting”, and A Map to Paradise was not a hit with me (if I ranked Susan Meissner's books from favorite to least favorite, this book would be at the bottom of the list).  While A Map to Paradise was not a home run with me, I look forward to reading Susan Meissner’s next novel.  

A Map to Paradise is available from Amazon. Check out Susan Meissner's other novels here. Thank you for stopping by today.  Tomorrow I am featuring Green Patures by Patricia Johns.  There will be a giveaway for you to enter!  The weather has been odd in my area (Tampa Bay area of Florida).  Normally, we have some mild spring weather (low 70s if we are lucky).  This week, I wear jeans and a sweater one day (low 60s yesterday), capris the next, shorts for two days, and then back to jeans.  I will enjoy the cool weather while it lasts because the heat will soon arrive.  I hope that you have a happy spring day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.