Sheila's Books Read

Sheila's bookshelf: read

The Best Intentions
Scotland's Melody
The Secret Society of Salzburg
Secret of the Sonnets
20-40-60-Minute Dinners: Meals to Match the Time You Have
Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild
Secret Santa Claus Club: A Tool to Help Parents Unwrap the Secret of Santa
Mr. Pudgins
Revenge Never Rests
The Best Mistake
Meriden Park
More Inspirational Stories for Young Women
The Great Tree: A Christmas Fable
To Capture His Heart
The Call of the Sea
Esperance
Livvy and the Enchanted Woodland
Come, Gentle Night
The Bad Boy Theory
Guide To Smart Wedding Planning: What You want to know and everything you haven't thought of yet.


Sheila's favorite books »

Friday, December 26, 2025

CIRCLE OF NINE : Beltany (Book 1) by Valerie Biel-YA Paranormal Fiction Review

CIRCLE OF NINE Series by Valerie Biel Banner

CIRCLE OF NINE

by Valerie Biel

October 27 - December 31, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

 

CIRCLE OF NINE: BELTANY

CIRCLE OF NINE: BELTANY

Brigit Quinn has always felt like an outsider. Growing up in a small town where her mom’s pagan practices are the stuff of local gossip, she’s spent her whole life trying to be normal. On her 15th birthday, Brigit makes the same wish she always has—to just fit in. But the universe has other plans.

Instead, Brigit discovers she’s descended from a legendary Celtic tribe—guardians of Ireland’s mystical stone circles. A spellbound book reveals her astonishing family history and the incredible abilities of her ancestors—powers she’ll inherit if she chooses to embrace them.

When an ancient evil resurfaces, threatening her family’s legacy, Brigit is forced to quickly make this impossible decision. Will she accept her magical heritage and fight to protect it? Or reject it to live the "normal" life she’s always wanted?

This thrilling mix of magic, self-discovery, and Irish mythology will captivate fans of coming-of-age stories with a mystical twist. Lovers of ancient legends, enchanted stone circles, and family secrets will be drawn to Brigit's journey into a world where her true power could be her greatest strength… or her downfall.

Find CIRCLE OF NINE: BELTANY on Amazon | KindleUnlimited | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | BookBub

Or click here to read an excerpt!

 My Review

Circle of Nine Beltany by Valerie Bell is book 1 in the Circle of Nine series. This YA novel is about witches, ancient magic, and a coming-of-age story. The main character is 15-year-old Brigit Quinn. On her 15th birthday, she is given an old book where she discovers she’s descended from a legendary Celtic tribe—guardians of Ireland’s mystical stone circles. I loved the storytelling in this book. Throughout the novel, we hear the stories of Brigit's ancestors in the form of journal entries and the special abilities the women in the family could embrace or reject. These were some of my favorite parts of the book. I enjoyed learning about Celtic mythology and history. This was well researched, and I could feel the authenticity when speaking of the Celtic history.

Brigit's modern-day story is about her navigating friendships, a new boyfriend, trying to fit in, honoring her ancestors, and accepting herself and her special abilities. I also really liked it when the story shifted to something evil from the past threatening Brigit and her mom. Someone is out to destroy her family. Now it is not simply a matter of choosing to embrace her heritage, but it's also a battle of good vs. evil.

The writer does a fine job of even pacing. Beltany will truly appeal to its target audience of teens. With its rich Irish/Celtic folklore, light romance, and suspense, this novel can be read by teens and adults, too.


CIRCLE OF NINE: NOVELLA COLLECTION

CIRCLE OF NINE: NOVELLA COLLECTION

Return to the Celtic magic that began with the suspenseful, award-winning novel Circle of Nine – Beltany.

Descended from a legendary Celtic tribe that guards the secrets of the ancient stone circles, the Quinn women have a great responsibility to protect their pagan rituals and way of life. As members of the formidable Circle of Nine, they celebrate the holidays of the year from Yule to Samhain, keeping the traditions of the Tuatha de Danann alive through the centuries against insurmountable odds. We first met these women in Circle of Nine – Beltany, and now a set of three novellas reveals more of their engaging stories.

In Bressa’s Banishment the power struggle between Father Banan and village healer Bressa Gormley unfolds amidst accusations of treachery, heresy, and murder. Can the Circle protect their trusted healer and the path of the Tuatha against a growing religious fervor?

Dervla’s Destiny brings us to medieval Ireland where the beloved character Dervla Quinn learns of her gifts and fights tremendous loss, betrayal, and violence, all the while never giving up on finding the love she deserves.

In Phoebe's Mission, when an evil force on a quest for ultimate power threatens the Circle of Nine, Phoebe Quinn must leave Ireland for the first time and travel to the United States to protect their way of life. Along the way, she meets the handsome Macklin Scott, taking her mission, and possibly her future, on a far different course than expected.

Find CIRCLE OF NINE: NOVELLA COLLECTION on Amazon | KindleUnlimited | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | BookBub

 

CIRCLE OF NINE: SACRED TREASURES

CIRCLE OF NINE: SACRED TREASURES

Brigit Quinn thought uncovering her magical heritage was the biggest shock of her life. But a year after learning she’s descended from a legendary Celtic tribe sworn to guard the mystical power of Ireland’s ancient places, the real battle is just beginning. As she trains for her place in the Circle of Nine, Brigit is determined to protect the secrets and sacred traditions of her people.

But when a cryptic warning arrives—hinting at a shadowy force hunting the Sacred Treasures—everything she’s fought for is suddenly at risk. If the ancient weapons fall into the wrong hands, The Circle could be shattered forever.

Haunted by doubts about her powers, the true intentions of those around her, and disturbing revelations about her family’s past, Brigit must navigate a dangerous path of betrayal, magic, and myth. The enemy is closer than anyone suspects—and time is running out. Can Brigit uncover the truth before darkness claims the Circle?

"The first time I summoned a portal, I didn’t understand how I accidentally opened a doorway to another realm. The second time wasn’t a mistake. I was ready—and I stepped through with the grim resolve that my mission must succeed." —Brigit Quinn

Find CIRCLE OF NINE: SACRED TREASURES on Amazon | KindleUnlimited | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | BookBub

 

CIRCLE OF NINE: MERCY IN THE MIST

CIRCLE OF NINE: MERCY IN THE MIST

The danger was supposed to be over.
The sacred treasures are safe.
The enemies banished to the Otherworld.

But Brigit Quinn’s dreams tell a different story.

The condemned return to haunt her sleep—pleading, accusing, refusing to be forgotten. Something is still wrong, even if the rest of the Circle of Nine insists the threat has passed.

When anonymous warnings surface and the police begin asking questions about the missing, Brigit’s visions intensify, blurring the line between dream and prophecy. The Circle is unraveling. Shadows are gathering.

To restore what’s been broken, Brigit knows they must return to the Otherworld and seek answers from the immortal Elders—knowing that to question them is to risk everything.

In this spellbinding fourth installment of the Circle of Nine series, ancient magic, mortal danger, and Brigit’s quest for the truth collide in a journey that will test the bonds of loyalty, love, and the fragile trust between gods and mortals.

Find CIRCLE OF NINE: MERCY IN THE MIST on Amazon | KindleUnlimited | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | BookBub

 

Praise for Circle of Nine:

"This was a truly beautiful read. Valerie Biel has a captivating, almost lyrical quality to her work that helps the flow and the smoothness of the piece wonderfully. You can just feel the words slide along as you read and it's a remarkable experience. I enjoyed her storytelling as much as I enjoyed the characters and the plot! Circle of Nine: Beltany is a wonderful blend of present and past, mixed with a healthy dose of Celtic mythology to captivate the brainiacs among us."
~ FIVE STARS from Readers' Favorite for CIRCLE OF NINE: BELTANY

"Each story is intriguing and suspenseful. I enjoyed learning about three generations of strong, independent women, who were tasked with protecting their ancient heritage, and about the men who loved and supported them."
~ Jerena Tobiasen, award-winning author for CIRCLE OF NINE: NOVELLA COLLECTION

"Great writing, enthralling plot, fast-paced, and utterly seductive. . . . This is an extraordinary story with a fantastic setting and characters that remind readers of the sacred in them. I enjoyed the way the author explored the struggle between good and evil in this work and how the conflict reaches every aspect of the story."
~ FIVE STARS from Readers' Favorite for CIRCLE OF NINE: SACRED TREASURES

"Mercy in the Mist delivers spellbinding suspense. Positively enchanting!"
~ Tracey S. Phillips, award-winning author of Forewarned for CIRCLE OF NINE: MERCY IN THE MIST

Series Details:

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Published by: Lost Lake Press

Find CIRCLE OF NINE series at Amazon & Lost Lake Press

 

Author Bio:

author

Valerie Biel writes award-winning books for middle grade to adult audiences--stories inspired by her travels and her insatiable curiosity. Her young adult fantasy series, Circle of Nine, was inspired by the myth and magic of Ireland's ancient stone circles. She's also the author of HAVEN, a contemporary middle grade novel, and BEYOND THE CEMETERY GATE, a mystery suspense story. She's a founding member of the Blackbird Writers & a member of Sisters in Crime & the Wisconsin Writers Association. When she's away from the computer, she's likely wrangling her overgrown garden, reading multiple books per week, or traveling the world--often on trips for the The World Orphan Fund charity she and her husband run. She calls a (tiny) portion of her family's century-old Wisconsin farm home, but regularly dreams of finding a cozy cottage on the Irish coast where she can write and write.

Catch Up With Valerie Biel:

ValerieBiel.com
Valerie's Substack Newsletter
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads - @valerie_biel
BookBub - @ValerieBiel
Instagram - @valeriebielauthor
Threads - @valeriebielauthor
X - @ValerieBiel
Facebook - @ValerieBielBooks
YouTube - @ValerieBielAuthor
Pinterest - @ValerieBiel

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews, interviews, guest posts, and opportunities to WIN in the giveaway!

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

 

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This giveaway is hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Valerie Biel. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.
CIRCLE OF NINE Series by Valerie Biel

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Monday, December 22, 2025

On A Midnight Clear By Tracie Peterson , Karen Witemeyer , and Misty M. Beller-Christmas Historical Fiction Review

 



Book Synopsis

Can they find a place to put their hearts and hope this Christmas?

Beloved authors Tracie Peterson, Misty M. Beller, and Karen Witemeyer come together with this festive novella collection inspired by the Nativity story and filled with faith, promise, and romance.

The Shepherd's Heart by Tracie Peterson
On the frontier, widowed sheep rancher Vincent Duran seeks a mother for his two children. Angel Lewis agrees to marry him despite believing Vincent will never truly love her, but as they work together during a fierce winter storm, will their broken hearts finally find peace, joy, and love? 

No Room at the Inn by Misty M. Beller
When Noah Bentwood and his charge are snowed in while traveling through the Rocky Mountains, he must stay in a barn since the stage inn has no vacant rooms. Then innkeeper Hope Palmer's family heirloom disappears, and she and Noah work together to find it before Christmas. While the snowfall holds them captive, will unexpected feelings bloom?

A Star in the West by Karen Witemeyer
Friendly correspondence with Stella Barrington evolves into something more when Harvard mathematics professor Frank Stentz arrives in Waco, Texas. As the two experiment with extending their relationship beyond letters, an impossible dilemma arises between love and logic. Will her wise man be able to calculate a way for them to be together?

Rediscover the joy of Christmas with these faith-based historical romances from bestselling authors featuring sweet Western frontier stories with themes of marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and friends-to-more.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bethany House Publishers
  • Genre: Christmas Historical Fiction 
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 2, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 304 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0764245724
  • ***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and a positive review is not required.***



My Review

On a Midnight Clear is a beautiful collection of three faith-filled Christmas novellas inspired by the Nativity story and filled with faith, hope, and romance. Each story takes place in the West, including Nebraska, Wyoming, and Texas, during the late 1800s.

Tracie Peterson, Karen Witemeyer, and Misty M. Beller wrote this multi-author novella anthology. Each is well written and unique, showing the Christmas spirit as they deal with situations that grow their faith. The first story is about a marriage of convenience that turns to love with a warm family bond. Another brings a blizzard-stranded stranger to an inn, sparking love at first sight and the promise of love. The third follows shy pen pals who meet, support each other, gain self-confidence, and draw near through God's love.

This charming collection of historical novellas was a delight to read. If you are looking for uplifting short stories, here are three to deliver Christmas light and faith straight to you.

                                                         


                                    ****Meet the Authors****

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling author of more than 100 novels, both historical and contemporary, with more than 6 million copies sold. She has won the ACFW Lifetime Achievement Award and the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. Her avid research resonates in her many bestselling series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. Learn more at TraciePeterson.com.


Voted #1 Reader's Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas. Learn more about Karen and her books at KarenWitemeyer.com.


USA Today bestselling author Misty M. Beller (MistyMBeller.com) writes romantic mountain stories set on the 1800s frontier and woven through with the truth of God's love. Her Southern roots run deep, and she lives in South Carolina with her husband and children.



~*~*~*~*Purchase On A Midnight Clear ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/guWkkRi

Kindle-https://a.co/d/fe5cZGd

Sunday, December 21, 2025

A Sea View Christmas (An On Devonshire Shores Novella) By Julie Klassen-A Holiday Regency Historical Novella Review




 




Synopsis

The holiday stirs up excitement as fondly remembered guests come to stay and acquaintances grow into more. . . .

With a promise to her youngest sister, Sarah Summers declares that this year's Christmas at Sea View will exceed all expectations. But an upcoming trip to Scotland--and the prospect of becoming reacquainted with dashing widower Callum Henshall--blows a flurry of doubts into her mind. Sarah had discouraged his attentions before yet soon finds herself once again torn between attraction and duty as alluring thoughts of a second chance at love weave their way into her practical heart.

Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Georgiana eagerly anticipates the exciting Christmas of her dreams after last year's dull, disappointing holiday filled with endless chores. She enjoys all the promised parties, music, and dancing, but is taken by surprise when young love comes knocking. Does the festive romance of a Sea View Christmas hold the key to a happily-ever-after for both sisters?

Spend the holiday season with the Summers sisters on the charming Devonshire coast, where family bonds are strengthened, love is rekindled, and Christmas joy abounds.

Julie Klassen's heartwarming Christmas companion to the On Devonshire Shores series holds themes of friends to more, sisterhood bonds, and matchmaking that will fill you with holiday spirit. This novella can be read separately or along with the series and will appeal to fans of Jane Austen, English Regency romance, and Downton Abbey.

Book Details

  • Series : On Devonshire Shores
  • Genre : Regency Historical Romance
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bethany House Publishers
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 2, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 240 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 076424244X
  • ***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and a positive review is not required.***






My Review

This is my first Julie Klassen book, but I plan on reading more. Although there are books preceding this one, you can easily read it as a standalone novel. However, I feel that my experience would have been richer if I had known all the characters beforehand.

I loved that this series features a family of sisters, with many of their decisions revolving around what's best for each other. This novella centers on the oldest sister, Sarah, who has sacrificed her own happiness for the sake of her family. Apparently, Sarah has a second chance at love with a Scotsman, Callum Henshall. Sarah, in the first book, turned away his love. This Christmas season brings hope that maybe this time will be the charm when their love is sealed. 

Also spotlighted is the youngest sister, Georgiana, who has her chance at first love. It was fun comparing the two sisters and their romantic escapades. 

I really enjoyed reading about the holiday Regency traditions: Yule logs, mistletoe, caroling, church services, and lavish feasts with roast meats, plum pudding, and flaming desserts, plus festive parties with wassail, music, and parlor games like Snapdragon, all culminating in the twelve days of Christmas and Twelfth Night celebrations.

This "novella" is actually the size of a regular novel, but it sweetly shows the beauty of a loving family during the Christmas season. 

 

                                ****Meet Author Julie Klassen****


Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. She worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full-time. Three of her novels have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also won the Minnesota Book Award, the Midwest Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award. Julie is a graduate of the University of Illinois. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota. Visit www.julieklassen.com and talesfromivyhill.com for more information.




~*~*~*~*Purchase ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/0WfbjVy

Kindle-https://a.co/d/f5ZbSdu

Friday, December 19, 2025

Too Clever for Courtship (Bridger Brothers Book 5) by Kate Condie-Sweet Historical Western Romance Review


 Book Synopsis

She’s spent her life immersed in books.


Desperate to live the kind of adventure she’s only read about, Molly Marx joined her cousins on the perilous journey westward. But the Oregon Trail is far more dangerous than she imagined. When her trusty guidebook doesn’t have the answers she needs, Molly finds herself drawn to the rugged wagon master whose instincts prove that not everything can be contained on a page.

He’s spent his life traversing the trail.

Fox Lee has long since turned his back on guiding travelers west, but a request from an old friend brings him back for one final journey. Escorting a group of mail-order brides to Oregon is supposed to be straightforward—until tragedy strikes, and Fox is suddenly in charge of an entire wagon company. With his past weighing heavily on him, he’s not sure he has the ability to lead these folks to safety. And when Molly’s incessant questions challenge every decision he makes, Fox is forced to confront the doubt buried in his heart.

But surrender is the one frontier neither of them has dared cross.

As the Oregon Trail grows more treacherous, can Fox find the peace he’s been searching for, or will Molly’s thirst for adventure lead them both into uncharted territory?

Saddle up for the Oregon Trail in Too Clever for Courtship, a sweet historical western romance. Enjoy it as a standalone adventure or as Book 5 of the Bridger Brothers series.

Book Details

  • Series: Bridger Brothers Book 5
  • Genre: Historical Western Romance 
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0G38QDHBN
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 23, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 264 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8275375190
  • ***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and a positive review is not required.***




My Review

The Bridger Brothers series delivers one great book after another. Book five shifts to their cousin, Molly Marx. She leaves behind her rich life—fancy home, fashionable outfits, endless cash—to escape her parents' pushy matchmaking. She rejects every suitor.  Molly is intelligent, caring, and very single at 27, an "old maid" by society standards. Her aunt, uncle, and cousins head west to Oregon and Molly joins them on the Oregon Trail. 

Fox Lee vowed to never lead wagon trains again after a past disaster. He takes on a load of brides to Oregon for his pal Jacob. Disaster strikes, and Fox steps up as leader. He fights to stop the brides chasing single guys who have husbands awaiting them. Deep down, he questions whether he can keep people safe after his previous tragic experience, while living in the shadow of his successful father.

Fox and Molly clash like thunder. Hate sparks first, and it's funny how hate eventually flips to attraction. Both swear they're not ready for marriage. I adored every Fox-Molly encounter. He sees her as bold and mule-headed. She views him as bossy, close-minded, and grumpy. 

This was a beautifully written story that showed fights, scares, sickness, and broken hearts for those chasing a brighter future. Fox goes on an emotional journey to heal his heart and confidence. Molly has a big part in helping him while he helps her realize she needs to let her walls down and allow love into her life. I loved how their relationship developed, leading to happiness and a sweet epilogue.

I absolutely loved Too Clever for Courtship. The whole series has been amazing, and book five can be read as a standalone...but like I always say, read the first four books before this one. Author Kate Condie knows how to write brilliant stories in this genre. I can't wait to read book six next. 

****Meet Author Kate Condie****


Kate Condie is a speed talker from Oregon. Reading has been part of her life since childhood, where she devoured everything from mysteries, to classics, to autobiographies—and of course, romance. At first, her writing was purely in journal format as she thought writing novels was for the lucky ones. She lives in Utah and spends her days surrounded by mountains with her favorite hunk, their four children and her laptop. In her free time she reads, tries to learn a host of new instruments, binge watches anything by BBC or tries to keep up with Lafayette as she sings the Hamilton soundtrack.



~*~*~*~*PurchaseToo Clever for Courtship~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/5ZYibYV

Kindle-https://a.co/d/hliLHdA


Books in the Bridger Brothers Series