 And it’s day Seven of the 12DOC! Hard to believe it’s only 5 days until Christmas! We’re in the home stretch!  *And it’s day Seven of the 12DOC! Hard to believe it’s only 5 days until Christmas! We’re in the home stretch! Today’s post is a bonus! You read the title right! I’m giving away five books! As you all know, last year I published my very first Christmas Novella, Coffee Shop Christmas. Five people will be the recipient of a pdf copy of this book, a little Christmas present 😉 How do you get a copy? Well…
The first five subscribers to contact me get a copy! This only lasts through today, so feel free to share with friends about this giveaway. And no sharing your pdf copy please. *UPDATE! All five of the books are gone! Thank you to everyone who contacted me! You all made my day!* And now for a book review: Wind Chimes by Victoria Minks!  The Wind Chimes, and Other Christmas Stories: A Collection of Short Stories Christmas is a day of forgiveness, love, God, and family, no matter where you live or when you lived. These stories will take you somewhere long ago, and yet much like today. With a touch of humor and a family-loving gentleness, these stories carry all the hope of Christmas. Wind Chimes-- Still bitter over a hurtful mistake a year ago, Martin Roebuck meets the despised doctor on Christmas Eve. The Two Runaways-- Lost while running away from home, Albert Russell is taken in by an old man, who seems to also have past grievances. On the Fourth Floor-- Though living on the same floor, George Nolan and Christin Rimmers overlook each other-- until a common challenge brings them together the night before Christmas Eve. The Spinster-- Wanting to avoid Christmas loneliness, Milly Lambert finds herself in the cabin of an old woman who holds a wise secret. The Broken Man-- Criminal Arch Fisher attempts to take advantage of a kindly old settler in the woods, but things go miserably awry. Winifred's Adventure-- Elderly couple Amias and Winifred Hambly--eager for an uncommon life--discover a dying mother the day before Christmas. My Review:
I’m seeing a pattern here…I’ve mostly been reading Short Story collections when it comes to Christmas books! This was the first Self-Published book I ever read, and since I know Victoria personally, it makes the book so much sweeter! I’ve known Victoria for…hmmm…six years? Something like that. Anyway, most of our friendship has manifested itself over the internet, since she is a MK (Missionary Kid) in Japan. But regardless, her writing is amazing! This collection of short stories is perfect for Christmas and is one of my very favorites! Truly a cozy read! Genre – Historical Fiction Historical Accuracy – As far as I can remember, it was 100% accurate. The stories go back and forth between the U.S. and England. Most of the stories don’t pinpoint a specific year. Content – I won’t make you sit through all my ravings over this book 😉 I love it so much (My favorite story is called “The Spinster”. 2nd is “The Broken Man”, but they are all so good!) Favorite Scene – Probably the one where a guy in one of the stories is being helped after a bad fall. The boys who help him and the constant chatter/remarks about the situation are just adorable. Also, a character named Mrs. Bascom. *Sigh* I love her so much! Overall – If you want a lovely collection of Christian Christmas stories that will warm the heart, buy this book! You can find Victoria’s website here and her Amazon link here. Don’t forget to enter my giveaway, then hop over to Stories by Firefly for more Christmas fun! Merry Christmas! Ryana Lynn Jude 22 Hey y’all! I’m back with another post and today, I’m doing something I’ve never done before…a book tag! I’m so excited! I’ve seen other bloggers/vloggers do these and I’ve always wanted to do one so when I saw Ivy Rose’s video of this tag, which in turn led me to Lindsey’s video, I was like, “Yes, girl, you’ve got to do this one!” So, I’m doing it today and I hope you enjoy! Sorry in advance for my grainy pictures...the phone isn't the best at these things and the lighting...*Sigh*  1. Find a book for each of your initials. R- Rachel and the Riot by Susan Martins Miller; L- Lights out! By Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Castleberry; M- Mandy the Outsider by Norma Jean Lutz (This one needed some minor edits.) I really enjoyed all three of these books, especially the first one. It’s set during what would later become the Labor Unions and how a family was divided by this evil institution. The main character’s dad was a doctor and cared for people on both sides. It also took a look at the “new” procedure of intubation, which fascinated me. Lights Out! is a Christian mystery story set in Tennessee. The main detectives are homeschooled brothers Jason and Andy. These books are sweet, innocent and very informative! The final book, Mandy the Outsider is about the days leading up to World War Two. I loved how it included a Japanese family who had come to America, become citizens and contributed to society. It also stayed away from the internment camps, which is a topic that I think often gets abused in literature. Don’t get me wrong, it was a sad time for everyone during that time in history, but sometimes I think some topics get over-killed and both sides are ignored, but that is a topic for another time. Anyway, this book was amazing!  2. Count your age along your bookshelf. Which book is it? I took this from my “To Be Read” (TBR) shelf. It’s Jacob DeShazer: Forgive Your Enemies by Janet and Geoff Benge  3. Pick a book set in your country (State 😉) Following these girls’ example, I’m going to pick a book set in my home state because 80% of my books are set in America 😉 And I see I only have my books to choose from! Oops on that one! But, The Land of Cotton, Our Heritage to Save and The Rivers of Sorrow are set in my state and county! That’s North Carolina for those of you who don’t know. These books take place in North Carolina and Virginia predominantly. Coffee Shop Christmas is also set in North Carolina, but the county is not specified.  4. Pick a book about a destination you would like to travel to. The Baker’s Daughter by D. P. Cornelius. I have not read this book, but it’s the only book I have at this moment that is set in Berlin, Germany. (I just realized today that all my WW2 books are set in the United States, surrounding European countries or the South Pacific! None are set in Germany! I need to remedy that…) So while I can’t recommend this book yet, I can’t wait to read it! I’ve gotten the desire to Germany over the last few years, though my top place I want to visit is Israel (I have no books set in there…or wait…oh! The Bronze Bow! Okay, so I’ll count both 😊). Anyway, my ancestors came from Germany in 1755 and settled in North Carolina shortly thereafter. I think it would be neat to visit the land of my ancestors and see where my Great-grandfather spent three years of his life defending the freedoms we know today. While the WW2 history of Germany is nothing to smile about, there are those who fought back (Think the White Rose Resistance Group!). I don’t know…I really want to go some day 😊  5. Pick a book that is your favorite color. The Treasure Hunt by Jean Pennington. I just read this book and I loved it so much! There were a few small things I had to fix, but this book was so good! It’s put out by Majesty Music…loved it so much. Oh…I forgot what this question was about…The book is GREEN! I LOVE GREEN! It’s my favorite color ever and emerald is my birthstone, so…yeah, I’m in love with this book’s cover 😊  6. Which book do you have the fondest memories of? Probably Behind Enemy Lines by Bill Doyle. I read this right after I moved from Newport, N.C. near Cherry Point Marine Base and while I knew I loved our military, this book gave me more reasons to love them. It wasn’t sugar coated, but also not too detailed for 2.7 reading level that was assigned to it. I think there were only two things I marked out, so I would suggest an adult reading it first, but it is quite an eye-opener into what our guys are willing to face to make sure the war stays over there. This is one of the few books I actually cried while reading. Words fail me to describe how much I appreciate them. God bless our troops!  7. Which book did you have the most difficulty reading? (No pictures for this one. I don't own on, don't recommend the other and can't get to the last one:)) Okay…so as far as the hardest to read because of content was Auschwitz Escape by Joel C. Rosenberg. I was listening to the audiobook…and I couldn’t finish it. At that time, was not ready to dig into everything that happened at this infamous Concentration Camp. It made me sick to my stomach. That being said, I do want to finish it someday, but I want to read it rather than listen to it. Don’t ask me why, but when it’s a book dealing with subjects of this matter, I prefer to read it myself rather than hear it out loud. I’ve heard it’s a good book and I want to know what happens to the characters…I just wasn’t ready. For a book that I had difficulty reading because it was so bad, it would have to be Silent Thunder by Andrea Davis Pickney. Y’all…it was so bad! I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude. It’s just…the topic was not a children’s topic and this is a middle-grade book! And of course, her view of history differed from mine, but she had facts misstated that both sides of the Civil War agree on. Like timelines and things of that nature. I made myself finish it because I wanted to be able to explain why it was wrong if someone should ask, and the worst part came out at the very end. I tried to give the author a benefit of a doubt, but…it was just bad. For one I had difficulty with just because I wasn’t grasping it on my own, Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford takes the prize. I had so much trouble with this book until my mother saved the day by offering to read it to me. Problem solved! It is now one of my favorite histories and I desperately need to read it again! It was amazing! You can’t make up stuff like this! READ IT! 8. Which book in your TBR pile will be your biggest accomplishment once finished? Jefferson Davis, American by William J. Cooper, Jr. and the Elsie Dinsmore Series. I’ve read…four or five of them, but I want to finish the series. They say the later books are full of history…right up my alley! And the first one is a very thick book and I’ve never read one on the Confederate President…*hangs head in shame* and I can’t wait to read it!  I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed answering the questions! Normally in a tag, you tag other bloggers, so I am tagging Amanda Tero and any of you bloggers/vloggers out there who would like to give it a try 😊 I only request that you link back to my blog in your post :P  Until next time,
Ryana Lynn Jude 22 
Howdy y’all and Merry Christmas! Today, I’m posting again for the Christmas in July Blog Party. In honor of this glorious Christmas season, I’ve asked one of the Characters from my book, Coffee Shop Christmas, to join me for an interview. So, let’s get to it!
Ryana Lynn: Hello there! Would you mind introducing yourself to our guests?
Sgt. Piper: Not at all. I’m Sgt. Dan Piper and I serve on the Caudwell, N.C. Police Force. We’re a fair sized department, but our town has a nice small town feel to it. Ryana Lynn: That’s so neat! So, have you always wanted to be a Policeman? Sgt. Piper: Yes and no. Ever since I was little, I wanted to be a Policeman, keeping the good guys safe and arresting the bad guys. My poor younger siblings had to endure so much as I practiced for the day I was old enough to sign up…being handcuffed with my toy handcuffs, the cuffs getting stuck so we couldn’t get them off, being chased around by me on my bike while making a siren sound…yeah, poor kids. Anyway, by the time I was 18, I wondered if maybe God wanted something different for me, if maybe I was supposed to be in the ministry. My parents, siblings and my pastor all helped me pray about what God wanted for my life. I ended up attending a year of Bible College before coming to the conclusion that God didn’t want me to be a preacher, but a faithful witness…to my fellow Policemen. I was accepted into the academy when I was 19 and have been in the Police Force ever since. Ryana Lynn: That is amazing! It’s so important to seek God’s will for our lives first. Now, a fun question. What is your take on the Policeman-donut-coffee thing? Sgt. Piper: Oh brother! Okay, so yes, there are officers who go for this all the way…but I am NOT one of them! I do love coffee, but not the donuts…okay, I’ll eat a Krispy Kreme Original Glazed occasionally, if the hot light is on, but NEVER in uniform. The teasing is bad enough without it being true! Ryana Lynn: Haha, I bet that can be annoying. What is your favorite and least favorite parts of being a Policeman? Sgt. Piper: That first one’s pretty tough…I’d say getting to know my fellow officers is one of my favorite things. Whenever a rookie comes in, I usually get them first, so it’s interesting finding out where they come from, why they joined up and what I can expect out of them in a jam. I work with some good fellows. I also enjoy the opportunity to share my Faith with them. While not everyone is open to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, many of them will listen and I can always count on my sister-in-law, Katherine, to follow up with them if they won’t listen to me anymore. My least favorite part is easy: Losing a brother. My brother-in-law, Bryson, was on our team and passed away after a wreck during a high-speed chase on Christmas Eve. It was so hard on us, especially his wife. They didn’t get to say goodbye. I’ll never understand it, but we’ve gotten to see God work through his story. Losing any of the guys is hard…my heart sinks whenever I hear about a fallen Policeman, even if he isn’t in my unit. It’s a bond we all share, even if we’ve never met…I guess it’s something you can only understand if you’re a part of the team. Ryana Lynn: Wow, I’m sure that is hard. So, if Bryson if your brother-in-law and Katherine is your sister-in-law…how are you kin? Sgt. Piper: Me and Bryson married sisters. My wife Isabelle is the older of the two, which is kinda funny since me and Bryson are the same age. Isabelle is actually a couple years older than me! Bryson used to tease her and call her a cradle-robber ? Ryana Lynn: That’s so funny! Thank you so much for joining us today! God Bless and be safe! Sgt. Piper: Thank you! Well, there you have it! If you would like to read some more Christmasy posts, check these out! July 1, 2018 Author Sarah Holman www.thedestinyofone.com Free: “Distorted Glass” July 2, 2018 Author A.M. Heath https://amheathblog.wordpress.com/ Giveaway: Where Can I Flee? July 3, 2018 Author Faith Blum www.fathblum.wordpress.com, Giveaway: Audiobook redemption code July 4, 2018 Author E. Kaiser Writes http://ekaiserwritesablog.blogspot.com/ Spotlight: new cover July 5, 2018 Author- Amanda Tero http://withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/ Free: Noelle’s Gift July 6, 2018 Author Ryanna Lynn https://www.lifeofheritage.com/blog Discount: Free shipping for Coffee Shop Christmas July 7, 2018 Author Alicia G. Ruggieri http://www.aliciagruggieri.com/category/abrighterdestiny/ Discount: The House of Mercy e-book July 8, 2018 Author Sarah Holman www.thedestinyofone.com Discount: Emmeline July 9, 2018 Author A.M. Heath https://amheathblog.wordpress.com/ Giveaway: In the Shadow of Thy Wings Author Kelsey Bryant https://kelseysnotebookblog.blogspot.com/ Discount: Suit and Suitability ebook July 10, 2018 Author Kelsey Bryant https://kelseysnotebookblog.blogspot.com/ Discount: Second Impressions ebook July 11, 2018 Author Rachel Rossano https://www.rachelrossano.com/blog Discount: The King of Anavrea ebook July 12, 2018 Author Amanda Tero http://withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/ Free eBook: Hartly Manor July 13, 2018 Author Kate Willis https://onceuponanordinary.wordpress.com/ Free eBook: Enjoy the Poodle Skirt July 14, 2018 Author Kendra E. Ardnek knittedbygodsplan.blogspot.com Vlog and Giveaway: The most romantic fairy tales July 16, 2018 Author A.M. Heath https://amheathblog.wordpress.com/ Giveaway: Out of the Ashes Author Jessica Greyson Blog: http://www.jessicagreyson.com/ July 17, 2018 Author Rebekah Morris www.readanotherpage.com Discount: The Unexpected Request Free: Choices for Max July 18, 2018 Author Emily Ann Benedict https://www.facebook.com/Emily-Ann-Benedict-164350249985/ Discount: Perception, a Vintage Jane Austen Novel July 19, 2018 Author Erika Mathews www.restinglife.com Discount: Promise’s Prayer ebook, Overrun By His Love Free: Gather ‘Round The Fables July 20, 2018 Author Ryana Lynn www.lifeofheritage.com Blog post: character interview. July 21, 2018 Author Rebekah Morris www.readanotherpage.com Sale: to be announced July 23, 2018 Author Amanda Tero http://withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/ Discount: Journey to Love, Befriending the Beast, The Secret Slipper July 24, 2018 Author Rebekah Morris www.readanotherpage.com Blog: Special upcoming release announcement July 25, 2018 Author Emily Ann Benedict https://www.facebook.com/Emily-Ann-Benedict-164350249985/ Giveaway: The Father Christmas Confessions. July 26, 2018 Author Faith Blum www.faithblum.wordpress.com Blog: Special upcoming release announcement and book sale July 27, 2018 Author Alicia G. Ruggieri http://www.aliciagruggieri.com/category/abrighterdestiny/ Discount: A Time of Grace: The Complete Series Blog: Spotlight on new book July 28, 2018 Author Abigayle Claire https://theleft-handedtypist.blogspot.com Giveaway and discount: Andora’s Folly July 30, 2018 Author Alicia G. Ruggieri http://www.aliciagruggieri.com/category/abrighterdestiny/ Discount: The Mystery of the Missing Cufflinks July 31, 2018 Author Amanda Tero http://withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/ Giveaway and new release: “Finding Christmas Joy” And don't forget to enter our Christmas giveaway! 
Hello and Merry Christmas ?
Today I’m participating in Amanda Tero’s Christmas in July event! As you know, free shipping all month is available on Coffee Shop Christmas. And to celebrate, I’m giving you the first chapter of Coffee Shop Christmas! For those of you who have already read CSC, I have some bonus story prompts for you at the end of the post. But now, for the chapter… Those Sirens
The jingling of keys reached the ear of Deputy Ellis Wright. He smiled and hurried down the sidewalk. “Good morning, Ms. Katherine!”
Katherine Shannon smiled at the young policeman. “Good morning, Ellis.” “I’ll check the place over for you this morning.” Katherine nodded and let Ellis in ahead of her. Someone from the station always checked the building over before she opened up. Special orders from her police officer brother-in-law Dan. Ellis flipped on the lights and scanned the front room of the coffee shop. Finding no one, he proceeded to the kitchen and store room. He returned to the counter, where Katherine was unpacking her grocery bags. “No one here but us. Do you need anything?” “No thank you, Ellis, I believe I can manage. You’ll be stopping by later?” “I think so, if they’ll let me go. I-” The no-nonsense voice of a dispatcher echoed from the scanner mounted on the counter of The Coffee Shop. Ellis was paged. Saying a hasty goodbye, he sprinted out the door and across the street. Blue and red lights bounced off the walls as a patrol car pulled out of the police station parking lot moments later. And then the sirens. Katherine buried her face in her hands as the car sped off. Her lips trembled as she prayed aloud, “Lord, be with Dan and Ellis as they answer this call. Help them to stay calm and level headed.” Her breathing was unsteady. Her voice shook, betraying the tears welling up inside of her. “Protect them and bring them back safe. Please be with the ones who made the call. Keep them safe and let the situation be resolved quickly. Thy will be done, Father. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.” Katherine glanced up at the clock on her wall, her intense blue eyes taking in the numbers, 5:15 am. It was Christmas Eve and Katherine soon had coffee brewed and ready for purchase. The deep scent of roasted grounds swirled through her small shop, mingling with sweet vanilla, spicy cinnamon and sugary baked apples. But even these comforting smells couldn’t relax her. Those sirens, she thought, brushing a wisp of chocolate brown hair behind her ear. Today, a year prior, she had heard about a convenience store robbery over the scanner. She heard her husband, Sgt. Bryson Shannon, respond that he would be heading right out. Knowing she had her scanner on at the house, he had said, “I love you, Katie!” She blinked her eyes rapidly as she remembered the words… She didn’t know that was the last time she would hear Bryson’s voice. She also recalled the text she had sent him, knowing his partner would read it to him. “I luv u, Bry J B careful <3.” It hadn’t been long after that when her brother-in-law, Sgt. Dan Piper, and her sister Isabelle had driven up to her house in Dan’s squad car. Dan had hurried her to the back seat and sped off for the hospital… Katherine closed her eyes, trying to shut out more memories. Why torture herself? Bryson was gone now, spending another Christmas in Heaven. At least his partner had survived. There was no sense in rehashing the painful memories. Ever since that day Katherine had purposed in her heart that, with God’s help, she would not become bitter. It would only hurt worse. Besides, why should she begrudge her husband his promotion to Heaven, the only promotion he had ever really wanted? And one day she would join him. The weeks and months following Bryson’s death had been hard. Katherine found herself waiting up nights for Bryson to come home, only to realize he never would. Then she would relive the pain anew. She was all alone in that big empty house. But grief wasn’t her only foe. Katherine had been a homemaker all her life, and now she had to find a means of supporting herself. She and Bryson had never been blessed with children, though they had wanted them dearly. Cleaning her own house wouldn’t put food on her table, and she didn’t want to be a burden on her family. Surely there was something she could do to pay the bills! It was Dan who had suggested she reopen the old coffee shop across the street from the police station. She was good at baking and making specialty coffee drinks…Bryson had always emphasized that fact to his co-workers. It seemed the perfect solution, and with a little help from Dan and Isabelle, the place had been obtained and fixed up. The name was simple: The Coffee Shop. Straight to the point, just how Katherine liked it. As you entered the building, you could see the whole dining area. Three booths on the left and three on the right were perfect for business meetings of four or less. The four small tables in the middle space were usually taken by couples or single occupants. Six swivel seats lined the long counter, which were the favorite perches for her police friends. The decorations were warm and inviting. Katherine was a lover of vintage and country pieces, adding to the charm of the small structure. She had a section dedicated to the Police Force she loved and a Military display was across from it on the opposite wall. Nothing too big, but big enough. It looked just right: down to earth and cozy. A small tree was in the front window adorned with homemade coffee mug ornaments sprinkled among the Nativity ones. She had also added a few squad cars in tribute to her husband. Since it was Christmas, each table had a small Nativity centerpiece and a larger one was displayed on the counter. The bell above the door jingled and Deputy Peter Cox walked in. He was one of the young men Bryson had been able to lead to the Lord before his death. Pulling herself out of her melancholy, Katherine forced a smile as he approached the counter. “Morning, Deputy Cox. What can I do for ya?” “I’m in the mood for something different…how about the Peppermint Mocha?” Katherine nodded. “Coming right up. That’ll be $2.50.” “Alright…” Peter replied, counting out the money. “Do me a favor and don’t tell the fellows I got a sweet coffee. They’ll never let me live it down!” The two laughed as Katherine gave him his change. As she fixed the warm drink, she asked, “How’s Amy adjusting to our town?” Peter’s face lit up at the mention of his new wife. “She loves it! She misses her family of course, but she says our town’s like stepping back into the 40’s or 50’s. At first, I thought she meant that as a put down, but then she told me she’d always dreamed of living in a town like this. It’s large but has that small town feel. And she’s in love with the library.” “Oh, yes. I know how she feels about the town and the library. I borrowed a new book from there, a WWII novel about the fall of Paris. I haven’t finished it yet, but I’ll let you know how it turns out.” Peter nodded eagerly. He loved reading historical novels when he had the chance, and his wife shared that love. He took the coffee Katherine handed him. “Amy said she wants me to bring her here when I get a day off. I’ve been talking about your coffee and your chocolate chip cookies. She wants to find out if your cookies are anything like her mother’s.” Katherine laughed, beginning to relax. Talking to others helped the unpleasant memories of the previous year fade away. “You bring her and I’ll give her one on the house as a welcome to the neighborhood. I’ll look forward to the taste testing!” Before long Peter took his leave, and Katherine was left once more to watch the officers coming and going from the station through her front window. Dan and Ellis were still out on their call. Again she prayed for their safety…and again past memories flooded her mind. She hadn’t been enthusiastic about entering the world of police officers when she and Bryson had first moved to the cozy town. Not that she didn’t appreciate the force and their work; she was just looking forward to less stress once Bryson left the military…but God had other plans. Katherine soon found that with her military wife experience, she was able to relate better to the other police wives and their families. She knew what it was like to stay awake late into the night waiting for the “Everything’s alright, nothing to worry about” email, text or phone call. Many of the men on the force were younger than she and Bryson, so their families appreciated the understanding and advice from an experienced couple. A smiled slowly made its way across her face. Katherine liked these warm, happy memories. She had become the “special aunt” to all the children born to the men at the station. They loved the new tradition of getting a free birthday cookie at The Coffee Shop and often sent pictures they had colored for her to hang up on her bulletin board. Some boys on the force seemed to think of her as an aunt themselves. Special events were told to her, and certain trials were shared as well. She was honored that they would share their triumphs and trials with her. Of course, these tough guys would never call it “sharing their trials”…they were too “cool” for that! But they knew Mrs. Shannon would always have a Bible verse or a story to share from her husband Bryson’s experiences that always seemed to help. Katherine’s thoughts now went back to those first few months after Bryson’s death. There wasn’t a day that went by without one of the fellows stopping by her house, just to make sure she was alright. Sometimes they would bring their family over for a short visit or drop off a meal. They were just as supportive to her as her church and family. In fact, in a very special way, they were her family. Katherine understood the potential danger these men faced every day and she took it seriously. What a tragedy it would be for one of these brave men to lose his life for all eternity while possibly saving another life! This sense of urgency spurred Katherine to action. The tract rack on the counter always had plenty of material for her to hand out and small scripture plaques dotted the establishment. No, Katherine Shannon was not one of God’s lazy laborers. She wiped down the chalkboard menu that was normally propped up behind the counter. It was smudged and needed updating. She carefully wrote the season’s specials on the board, as well as the old faithfuls. Due to many requests, Salted Caramel Lattés had been added to the list, though Katherine personally wasn’t crazy over them. But she did like the Peppermint Mochas. Mint Chocolate was a favorite of everyone who tried it, as well as her Home-style Hot Chocolate. To add some zest to the same old classics, Katherine had renamed them. The Squad Car Special was simply a cup of coffee and a pastry of the customer’s choice. It was a personal joke between her and her brother-in-law because of the age-old police-donut-coffee stereotype. A laugh escaped her as she remembered Dan begging her not to carry donuts in her shop. “It’ll only make the teasing worse!” “You don’t have to eat them, Dan,” she had defended, for she personally liked homemade donuts. “I never should have suggested you open this place,” he mockingly lamented. She still remembered the look of “horror” on his face when he found out what The Squad Car Special was. Just as she finished up her sign, a car pulled up outside the shop…a police car.
To Find out What Happens Next, Place your Order for "Coffee Shop Christmas"! And now for the Story Prompts...
Also, don't forget to check out these blog stops over the next several days...
July 7, 2018 Author Alicia G. Ruggieri http://www.aliciagruggieri.com/category/abrighterdestiny/ Discount: The House of Mercy e-book July 8, 2018 Author Sarah Holman www.thedestinyofone.com Discount: Emmeline July 9, 2018 Author A.M. Heath https://amheathblog.wordpress.com/ Giveaway: In the Shadow of Thy Wings Author Kelsey Bryant https://kelseysnotebookblog.blogspot.com/ Discount: Suit and Suitability ebook July 10, 2018 Author Kelsey Bryant https://kelseysnotebookblog.blogspot.com/ Discount: Second Impressions ebook July 11, 2018 Author Rachel Rossano https://www.rachelrossano.com/blog Discount: The King of Anavrea ebook July 12, 2018 Author Amanda Tero http://withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/ Free eBook: Hartly Manor July 13, 2018 Author Kate Willis https://onceuponanordinary.wordpress.com/ Free eBook: Enjoy the Poodle Skirt July 14, 2018 Author Kendra E. Ardnek knittedbygodsplan.blogspot.com Vlog and Giveaway: The most romantic fairy tales July 16, 2018 Author A.M. Heath https://amheathblog.wordpress.com/ Giveaway: Out of the Ashes Author Jessica Greyson Blog: http://www.jessicagreyson.com/ July 17, 2018 Author Rebekah Morris www.readanotherpage.com Discount: The Unexpected Request Free: Choices for Max July 18, 2018 Author Emily Ann Benedict https://www.facebook.com/Emily-Ann-Benedict-164350249985/ Discount: Perception, a Vintage Jane Austen Novel July 19, 2018 Author Erika Mathews www.restinglife.com Discount: Promise’s Prayer ebook, Overrun By His Love Free: Gather ‘Round The Fables July 20, 2018 Author Ryana Lynn www.lifeofheritage.com Blog post: character interview. July 21, 2018 Author Rebekah Morris www.readanotherpage.com Sale: to be announced July 23, 2018 Author Amanda Tero http://withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/ Discount: Journey to Love, Befriending the Beast, The Secret Slipper July 24, 2018 Author Rebekah Morris www.readanotherpage.com Blog: Special upcoming release announcement July 25, 2018 Author Emily Ann Benedict https://www.facebook.com/Emily-Ann-Benedict-164350249985/ Giveaway: The Father Christmas Confessions. July 26, 2018 Author Faith Blum www.faithblum.wordpress.com Blog: Special upcoming release announcement and book sale July 27, 2018 Author Alicia G. Ruggieri http://www.aliciagruggieri.com/category/abrighterdestiny/ Discount: A Time of Grace: The Complete Series Blog: Spotlight on new book July 28, 2018 Author Abigayle Claire https://theleft-handedtypist.blogspot.com Giveaway and discount: Andora’s Folly July 30, 2018 Author Alicia G. Ruggieri http://www.aliciagruggieri.com/category/abrighterdestiny/ Discount: The Mystery of the Missing Cufflinks July 31, 2018 Author Amanda Tero http://withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com/ Giveaway and new release: “Finding Christmas Joy” (Please note that I do not endorse social media.) And DON'T FORGET THE GIVEAWAYS! 
GRAND GIVEAWAY
“Christmas Is a Gift” CD (Amanda Tero) $5 Starbucks gift card (Amanda Tero) Ebook copy of Coffee Shop Christmas (Ryana Lynn ) “A Christmas Disaster” paperback (Rebekah Morris) A Holy Passion softcover (Alicia G. Ruggieri) Ebook copy of Martin Hospitality and Andora’s Folly (Abigayle Claire) Trust and Obey notebook (Faith Blum) Kendra E. Ardnek - paperback of The Worth of a King (Just as soon as it comes out.) eCopy of book one and two in the Father Christmas Series (Emily Ann Benedict) Audiobook of Sufficient Grace (Jessica Greyson) Audiobook of Emmeline (Sarah Holman) Ebook of Overrun By His Love (Erika Mathews) 
GRAND INTERNATIONAL GIVEAWAY
eBooks of “Finding Christmas Joy,” “Noelle’s Gift,” and “Hartly Manor” (Amanda Tero) Ebook copy of Coffee Shop Christmas (Ryana Lynn) The Unexpected Request Audio (Rebekah Morris) Audiobook codes for A Mighty Fortress and Be Thou My Vision (one each) (Faith Blum) A HolyPassion e-book (Alicia G. Ruggieri) Ebook copy of Martin Hospitality and Andora’s Folly (Abigayle Claire) The Worth of a King e-ARC (Kendra E. Ardnek) eCopy of book one and two in the Father Christmas Series (Emily Ann Benedict) Audiobook of Sufficient Grace (Jessica Greyson) Audiobook of Emmeline (Sarah Holman) Ebook of Overrun By Your Love (Erika Mathews)
Have a blessed day and Merry Christmas ?
Ryana Lynn Jude 22  Merry Christmas, Everyone! With Christmas just days away, I’d like to share my top Ten Christmas Reads. There’s nothing I love more than curling up with a good book on a cold, wintery day (preferably with cozy Christmas socks, a warm blanket, a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, soft Christmas music in the background, a Christmas candle burning…sorry. Going on a tangent!)
Anyway, here are my top picks for Christmas Reading! 1. Wind Chimes by Victoria Minks (From the Website) Christmas is a day of forgiveness, love, God, and family, no matter where you live or when you lived. These stories will take you somewhere long ago, and yet much like today. With a touch of humor and a family-loving gentleness, these stories carry all the hope of Christmas. Wow! This is one of my favorite Christmas reads! Published in 2015, this book contains six short stories that will take you back in time! There’s a mix of old American and old English stories. The settings are awesome and take you exactly where Victoria intends you to be. My personal favorites were: Wind Chimes and The Spinster. All of them were amazing. Click here for more information! 2. Winter with the Moodys by Sarah Maxwell (From the Back Cover) The third book in the Moody Family Series continues to follow the life of a Christian, homeschool family. There is never a dull day in the Moody house. Baby excitement, homeschooling, grandparents, blessing neighbors, Christmas preparations, two big surprises, and more are packed into this book. Come join the Moodys for the winter! This is not strictly a Christmas story but it does contain some Christmas scenes. This story is book 3 in a series of 10 (plus 2 Novellas). I highly recommend this series. Even if you haven’t read the first two books, you should be able to read this as a stand-alone, but it’s best if you read them all! They are addictive! Click here for more information! 3. Christmas Comes to Sunflower by Sarah Maxwell (From the Back Cover) A surprise encounter at Sunflower’s Post Office gives Mollie an idea. Christmas is a special time of year, and Max, Mollie and Mitch are determined to bless Joey. Time is against them as they face multiple obstacles in their quest. Will they be able to make Joey’s dream come true in time for Christmas? Grab a cup of hot chocolate, curl up next to the fire, and find out what happens in Christmas Comes to Sunflower. This book is a companion to Winter Days with the Moodys. Though it can definitely be read alone, it actually intertwines with Winter Days with the Moodys, thanks to a page labeled Reading Guide. This is a sweet story about blessing others at Christmas time, especially those who are less fortunate. Click here for more information! 4. Winter Days with the Moodys by Sarah Maxwell (From the Back Cover) The Moody Family Series continues with the seventh book, Winter Days. Follow the Moodys as they experience excitement at the gas station, an encounter with their friend Mr. Gibson, Christmas preparations, their first banquet event, remodeling work, serving In Jesus’ Name, and a double surprise. Come enjoy the winter adventures of the Moody family! Be prepared to be encouraged in your walk with the Lord Jesus and motivated in your family relationships. Okay, I have a thing for Sarah Maxwell’s books. My favorite scene is the banquet scene. It’s so funny! Just add this whole series to your To Be Read (TBR) list. They are great! Click here for more information! 5. Christie’s Christmas by Isabella Alden (From the Back Cover) Christie’s Christmas is a delightful story. The Story has little to do with Christmas but everything to do with a sweet Christian girl, Christie, who spent a very unusual and eventful day sowing seeds of kindness. Little did she know how those seeds would grow and prosper. Even a child can live for Jesus, and Christie is an excellent example of such a life. Good story for boys and girls. The whole family will enjoy it! If you’ve never read Mrs. Alden (or “Pansy” to many), You. Are. Missing. Out. She’s amazing! I don’t agree with the assumption that this story has little to do with Christmas. It’s drenched with the Christmas Spirit! Click here for more information! 6. The Mysterious Message by Mr. and Mrs. Stephen B. Castleberry (From the Back Cover) The Great Detective Agency is at it once again, solving mysteries on the Nelson farmstead. Why is there a pile of rocks in the woods? Is someone stealing gas from the mill? How could a railroad disappear? You will have to read this second book in the Farm Mystery Series to find out. I know, another book in a series This book can be read as a standalone and while it’s not about Christmas, it has a pronounced wintery theme and I love it! My younger siblings love a good mystery and this series is amazing! (It’s another 10 book series!) Click here for more information! 7. The Search for the Silver Eagle by Ed Dunlap (From the Back Cover) No longer safe in Switzerland, Hans, Gretchen, and Papa settle in France using name changes to throw off the relentless pursuit of the Nazis. The family becomes involved in a daring rescue that could save France, their homeland – maybe even the free world. But the enemy covets the prize, forcing the three heroes and their friends into harrowing chases and narrow escapes. Warning – this book will make you cry…or at least want to cry. It is part of a 3 part series, and can be read as a standalone, though a few things are implied from book one. But this book is amazing. I love how everyone works together to help the Ameri…never mind. READ THIS BOOK, especially if you love WWII! Click here for more information! 8. Sunflower’s Christmas Miracle by Sarah Maxwell (From the Back Cover) Christmas is right around the corner in Sunflower, and life is full of surprises. Some good, some not. Mr. Gibson is at the root of them, but what can twelve-year-old Moses do? At the town hall meeting, Moses is proud to watch his older brother stand up against opposition, but the new piece of information is troubling. When their Christmas season turns into a crisis, can Moses handle what’s before him? Sunflower’s Christmas Miracle will tug your heartstrings in this incredible story of hope and love. I have not yet finished reading this book, but even half way through, I’m loving this. It’s set in modern times and shows what life is like for the Moody family…later in life It’s great so far. I got it for my youngest sister and we are both really loving it! She always begs for “One more chapter!” of the Moody books! Bonus! This one just came out this month! Click here for more information! 9. Letter of Love by Amanda Tero (From the Back Cover) Edward Dixon is convinced that life is cruel, and he is not willing for anything to change his mind from that. A letter from his sister, Marie, reveals that she views life otherwise. Will her letter, filled with love and forgiveness, make a difference in Edward’s life? Or will he stubbornly refuse to change before it’s too late? This book was a surprise. It’s a short story sequel to Journey to Love. That being said, you really should read Journey to Love first. (Note: This is not a romance. It’s about an orphan finding a family, but that’s all I’m saying!) It’s amazing and I personally like it the best. Don’t get me wrong, they are both very well written! Ms. Tero reminds me of a modern Isabella Alden, writing stories with deep messages that most very often ignore. My only hang up with this book (Letter of Love) was an old timey term that I personally do not prefer using. Otherwise, this is a gripping story that will present a very realistic part of life, even if it is set in 1902. Click here for more information! 10. Coffee Shop Christmas by Ryana Lynn Miller (From the Back Cover) While for some, Christmas is a time of pleasant memories, for others, it is a reminder of past tragedies. Police widow Katherine Shannon is one such person. Since the death of her husband a year ago, she has made ends meet running a coffee shop across from the town police station. But as time goes on, she’s questioning whether she should keep the shop open or if maybe God has something else in mind for her. Can a cup of coffee really make a difference in this world? Can a coffee shop be used for God’s glory? Can God use burnt cookies and salted caramel lattés to open a door for Christian service? Or an overheard conversation to touch a heart? (Mark 9:41) Through a series of God orchestrated events, she will find her answer. Come along and join Katherine as she finds God’s will for her life. Once you visit The Coffee Shop, you’ll never be the same. Shameless self-promotion, y’all, but I honestly love this story. It really touches a tender spot in my heart and I hope it will touch others as well. If you love Christmas, Coffee and the sacrifices our Policemen make, you need this book! And if you like a touch of music, writing and WWII, grab it! It won’t be a waste of money, I promise! Click here for more information! I hope you pick up a few or all of these books! They are amazing. I know there were a lot of series books in there…sorry, I need to expand my Christmas collection J Something to think about: So you like Christmas books? Pull them out and reread your top favorites. Share them with a friend. If you are a blogger, let others know what Christmas/winter reads are on your reading list. Merry Christmas! Ryana Lynn Jude 22 |
Ryana Lynn
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