Book Spotlight: Moms of the Bible by Rhonda Stoppe

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Moms of the Bible by Rhonda Stoppe, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Moms of the Bible: Life-Changing Lessons from the Fearless, Flawed, and Faithful 
Author: Rhonda Stoppe 
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers 
Release Date: March 10, 2026 
Genre: Christian Non-Fiction/Parenting

Biblical Encouragement for Everyday Motherhood 

Have you ever whispered to yourself, I’ll be a better mom tomorrow…but tomorrow never comes? Maybe you’re comparing yourself to other moms and feel you aren’t measuring up. But don’t lose hope. Just as moms in Scripture learned from life’s ups and downs, with God’s help, you can become the mom you long to be.  

Moms of the Bible explores timeless life lessons from Bible moms of all types, revealing how their stories of failure, faith, and hope can help you fulfill your own calling with confidence. From the redeemed Rehab to the horrible Herodias, each story unveils eye-opening insights and powerful applications that can help you as you seek to raise up children who impact their generation with fearless faith. 

Author Rhonda Stoppe engages you with the warmth and wisdom of a trusted friend who’s been there herself. For mothers of all ages and stages―including step, adoptive, foster, and grandmothers raising their grandkids―this uplifting look at the moms of Scripture will empower you to influence the culture in profound ways through your sacred ministry of motherhood. 

 PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harvest House | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

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Book Excerpt

Having a Bad Mom Doesn’t Mean You’ll Be a Bad Mom

In Salome’s wildest imagination, I wonder if she ever expected to hear her mother's macabre response, “The head of John the Baptist”. The Bible doesn’t tell us how Salome felt about her mother’s request. It does, however, show how she came with haste to the king and asked, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter” (Mark 6:25).

History records Herodias as a bad mom with no redeeming qualities; she trained her daughter, Salome, to follow her vile ways. However, having a bad mom does not condemn you to follow in her footsteps. Praise the Lord, He offers new life in Christ! Be encouraged to know if you have turned to Jesus as your Lord and Savior, His Holy Spirit has made you a new creation, capable of loving your children with His self-less love…History recounts many heroes of the faith who didn’t have great mothers.

Hold hold tight to this truth, our journeys are woven together by the fabric of faith, grace, and the choices we make each day. I hope this story will remind you, though you may have inherited patterns from an unkind mother, you are not shackled by them.

In Christ you have been equipped by the Holy Spirit to break free from sin's grasp and to chart a new course for yourself and your family. Be courageous to have those tough conversations with your children. Strive for accountability in your relationships, and create an atmosphere in your home where grace and compassionate love abounds.

Remember, parenting well is not about being perfect; rather it’s about being a genuine follower of Christ who seeks the Lord's guidance while encouraging your children to pursue purity and purpose.

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Also Available

  

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About the Author

Rhonda Stoppe is a biblically sound speaker and host of the award-winning podcast Old Ladies Know Stuff. A trusted voice in the Christian living community, she is the best-selling author of 7 popular books and a frequent guest on Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk and Focus on the Family. Rhonda has been joyfully married to her pastor-husband, Steve, for 45 years. They have 4 children and 15 grandchildren. Connect with Rhonda at NoRegretsWoman.com.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 14, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 21, 2026. Winners 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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Book Review: Daughter of the Rebellion by Jamie Ogle

About the Book:

In this stirring historical romance by award-winning author Jamie Ogle, a young woman imprisoned in a Roman gladiator school becomes a legendary warrior. But when not even her fame is enough, she must fight to save herself and those she loves.

Rome, AD 403. As a loyal daughter of the Visigoth tribe, Adelgard followed her father to war, hoping to win back her family's approval. But after a clash with the Roman army, Adel is captured and sold to a gladiator school. Now she is the most famous gladiatrix in Rome, determined to keep the fickle love of the crowd and never again rely on anyone but herself for her own security. But beneath the fame lies a darkness and pain that holds her captive.

Felix despises Rome's fascination with violence. But after returning from medical training to discover his father missing and his family desperate, he had little choice but to accept a position at the gladiator school managed by his uncle. He finds a kindred spirit in Adel and does what he can to preserve the humanity of the rebel fighters, but when he receives orders that further compromise his beliefs, he arrives at a crossroads.

Then Telemachus, a Christian leader, approaches Felix with an urgent message: if the Visigoth captives are not released, their army will invade Rome. Despite the risk, the emperor is bent on proving his power through a stunning, deadly day of gladiatorial games. As Telemachus seeks to save the Visigoth fighters, Felix and Adel join forces in a desperate rebellion that may define not only their own lives but also the course of history.

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My Thoughts:

Daughter of the Rebellion by Jamie Ogle felt both compelling and entertaining. Adel’s life in the gladiator school was not sugar-coated, but also not as gory as it could have been. Her position as a respected gladiatrix gave her fame and a level of security, but as the plot unfolded, so did Adel’s heart. Themes about addiction and self-deception emerged, but the author redeemed the pain with a faith that led to true freedom. I liked the writing, the characters, and the romance, but it was the story’s spiritual themes that lingered with me.

I recommend Daughter of the Rebellion by Jamie Ogle to readers who are drawn to gritty historical fiction with powerful spiritual themes. If you liked Francine Rivers’ The Mark of the Lion series, you’ll probably enjoy Daughter of the Rebellion. Five stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.

Author Interview: A Work in Development by K.A. Ross

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Work in Development by K.A. Ross, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Work in Development 
Series: A Work in Progress Series #2 
Author: K.A. Ross 
Publisher: Sweetwater Books (a Cedar Fort imprint) 
Release Date: July 1, 2026 
Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

For a woman who has edited hundreds of romance novels, Nellie’s own happy ending feels out of reach. After the death of her first husband, Daniel has offered her a second chance at happiness and love. But just as Nellie begins to hope for a future with him, her in-laws arrive to celebrate her late husband’s memory. Bringing more confusion than comfort, the well-intentioned relatives test Nellie's determination to be brave. 

Problems escalate when an unexpected threat emerges to tear open deep wounds from Daniel’s past and jeopardize everything Nellie has built with him. Nellie never thought she’d find love again. Now that she has, she’ll do anything to protect it. With only a week to keep everything from spinning out of control, keeping her romance from becoming a rom-com cliché is the least of Nellie’s problems. 

Nellie must face the fears buried inside herself to save her and Daniel’s story—or risk the next plot twist breaking it apart.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

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More in This Series

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Excerpt

“Hey,” Daniel dropped his voice so low I inched forward to hear him, “Did you call to finally tell me what the two most romantic words in the English language are?”

I rocked back in my seat with a giggle. After editing over a hundred romance novels, I’d picked up a few things. Making Daniel guess what the two most romantic words were became a game weeks ago.

“No. How many times must I tell you that you have to figure it out on your own?”

“Chocolate milk,” he said without hesitation.

I snorted. “Inside jokes between you and me are romantic but don’t qualify.”

“I see, I see.” I could picture Daniel rubbing his chin in a mock display of deep thought. The fact that he was talking with me instead of rushing back to his basketball game filled me with 100 percent concentrated glee.

“Is it, ‘I do’?” he said, sounding confused.

“You’ve already guessed that. Twice.” I rolled my eyes, wanting to slap my forehead that the matrimonial phrase I do hadn’t given Daniel pause or, apparently, any ideas.

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About the Author

K.A. Ross loves stories so much she can’t write in just one genre! Find her fantasy works under “Kay Ross” and her romance under “K.A. Ross.” When she's not at work, she's finding new stories, discussing old stories, or writing her own. If she's ever not thinking about stories, she's either trying not to be too invested in sports or climbing up a mountain so she can run down it. She may live out West, but she considers any open space with a view home. To be the first to hear about upcoming releases, and receive a free short story, sign up for her newsletter at authorkayross.com!

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Author Interview

Q: What inspired you to write A Work in Development?

K.A. Ross: In A Work in Progress, I’d written the journey Daniel and Nellie had to take to get to the point where they could date/admit they liked each other. But in real life, I know the journey doesn’t stop there. Life always finds a way to test love, and I wanted to see how Nellie and Daniel could be victorious in their devotion to each other when their respective pasts would try and get in the way. It was important to see how love could not only endure but grow in the face of adversity.

Q: How long did it take to write this book?

K.A. Ross: Less than a year.

Q: What surprised you while researching/writing this novel?

K.A. Ross: I loved working with a fantastic sensitivity reader to refine Luisa’s character. Writing this fiery Venezuelan Grandmother with all her quirks was so much fun.

 

Q: Do you have a favorite quote from A Work in Development?

K.A. Ross: Yes! Goodness yes. But it’s a bit of a spoiler. I feel like the entire book was written around this line. Hints: it’s in Chapter 16, spoken by Daniel. You’ll know it when you read it!

Q: When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

K.A. Ross: It’s a good question. I can’t ever remember a time I didn’t love stories or coming up with my own. But sitting down to right one with the intent to see it published first happened in 2021.


Q: Would you share something about yourself that most readers wouldn’t know?

K.A. Ross: When I was little, I had a paper route. All I would do when delivering those papers was think about stories. I would often get to the end of a street and not be able to remember which houses I’d delivered to because I was so engrossed in thinking about plot and characters. My favorite story to think about was my own sequel to Jurassic Park. (With myself as the child lead, of course!)


Q: What are you currently reading?

The Impossible Fortune (Book 5 in the Thursday Murder Club)


Q: What is your favorite genre to read?

Honestly, non-fiction. Not only are they fascinating but nothing triggers story ideas than real events.


Q: What is your favorite hobby?

Stories. Always stories. Reading them, watching them, reviewing them, writing them. Then hiking and eating Indian food!


Q: What is your favorite season and why?

Summer. It is so light and hopeful. I’m incredibly grateful though, that I love all things about Fall like pumpkin spice, football, and falling leaves. It helps me not notice summer sneaking out the back door without leaving its phone number.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each receive a signed copy of A Work in Development & a $15 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 29, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 6, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Book Spotlight: A Mother's Prayer by Chris Maday Schmidt

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Mother's Prayer by Chris Maday Schmidt, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Mother's Prayer 
Series: Sweetwater, Arizona #3 
Author: Chris Maday Schmidt 
Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired 
Release Date: June 30, 2026 
Genre: Inspirational Romance

Can an unexpected turn 
lead her right where she belongs? 

Pregnant, single and stranded in a storm with her two young kids, Olive Hart is out of options—until gruff mechanic Hank Valentine comes to their rescue. When her housing falls through, he reluctantly offers them shelter at his ranch in exchange for help at his garage. It’s just a temporary arrangement…but Olive’s chaotic, lovable crew begins to warm his guarded heart. 

They’ve both been burned by the past, but can they find the courage to build something lasting…together?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin.com | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop |BookBub

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Book Excerpt

Hank turned back to Olive, his expression tinged with concern.

“You good to manage things on your own?”

She winked. “Don’t worry about a thing—boss.”

After reviewing the open work orders, she peeked over her shoulder before slipping onto the shop floor.

No telling how long Hank would be gone.

She grabbed a wooden dolly and, after a few tries, found a semi-comfortable position on the hard
board. Then she maneuvered under a run-of-the mill four-door sedan and got to work. As she found her rhythm, everything else faded.

She didn’t even hear the door squeak open—or the heavy clomp of boots on the cement floor.

“Mighty mackerel, woman—what do you think you’re doing!”

Startled, Olive jerked. Her hand slipped, and black, viscous oil spilled onto the cement.

“Oh, no.” She chomped her bottom lip as thick liquid pooled beside her.

The sharp intake of Hank’s breath preceded the sight of his boots inches from her face.

“Olive! Are you hurt—wait, don’t move! I’m calling 911!”

He dropped to his knees, ducking his head to peer beneath the car.

Then, sudden understanding lit her chest.

A burble of laughter rose and burst out.

“It’s—not—my—water…” she wheezed between giggles.

But Hank wasn’t laughing.

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More in This Series

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About the Author

Chris Maday Schmidt is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author who writes contemporary inspirational romance—real-life fairy tales filled with hope, humor, and heart. A member of Faith, Hope & Love Christian Writers, she is the author of the Love Inspired Sweetwater series for Harlequin, including her latest release, A Mother’s Prayer (June 30, 2026). Her debut novel received a 5-star review in the 2024 Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews and Award Contest.

Connect with Chris by visiting chrismadayschmidt.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a book tote, a B&N gift card, and a signed print copy of A Mother's Prayer!

(1) winner will receive a Sweetwater, Arizona book bundle: A Father's Vow, The Fire Chief's Surprise, and A Mother's Prayer! (print for US winner, ebooks if winner is outside the US)

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 30, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 7, 2026. 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 for print copies & book tote. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Book Spotlight: The Eyes of River by Cindy K. Sproles

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for The Eyes of River by Cindy K. Sproles, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Eyes of River 

Author: Cindy K. Sproles 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: June 23, 2026 

Genre: Historical Fiction

A heart-wrenching Appalachian novel from a best-selling, award-winning author

In the shadowed hollers of the early-twentieth-century Appalachian Mountains, Lizzy Haney is on the run. She's been falsely accused of murder and is desperate to reunite with her brother, River, whose unforgettable green eyes haunt her. The secret in her past is a stinging wound, but it motivates her toward her goal: freedom. 

But nine-year-old River, sent through the US Post Office to their late mother's friend in Knoxville, never arrived. Lizzy's dream of finding him and starting a new life away from their alcoholic and abusive father is ripped away. 

Her hope rekindles as she happens upon an unexpected friend to help her dodge the law and save the missing youngin'. As she finds herself trusting him, she discovers the accuracy of the old adage her momma repeated: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

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Excerpt

“Cat got your tongue?”

I had to give Alton credit. He was doin’ his best to start a conversation. I just didn’t have it in me to reply.

“I understand if you don’t want to talk. I know girls sometimes get a little bashful. Though you wasn’t too bashful tellin’ me you’d bloody my nose. I’m just tryin’ to be gentlemanly. You know, help out a friend. Do what’s right.”

“Will you stop babbling? I was at the station because I . . . I . . . I had business there.”

“I know. It’s none of my beeswax, right?” He kicked a rock a few feet in front of us. It splashed in the soggy grass.

“Look, Alton . . .”

“I know, Lizzy. You don’t like me. I understand. Like I said, I’m just tryin’ to be gentlemanly. I turned eighteen yesterday. Momma said it was time I bucked up and come into my manhood. Guess I ain’t doin’ so good at that, now am I.” His blue eyes focused on the ground at my feet.

I sighed. Alton wasn’t a bad person. I just wasn’t fancy on him, and despite his being nervous, he was being kind. I sure wasn’t beholden to his concern. “I’m sorry. It’s just been a hard day. And you’ve been nothing but gentlemanly. Got your fancy trousers on and all. See, I noticed.”

Alton lifted his gaze from the road to me. “Mighty kind of you to notice. Thanks.”

I nodded. “I just mailed a box to Knoxville.”

He stopped square at the edge of a puddle and rubbed his nubby chin with his finger. “Mailin’ a box don’t rate a person cryin’. Seems to me there’s more to that box than you’re lettin’ on.”

I was tired of lies. Tired of hiding things that should be spoken, and though I wasn’t keen on trusting just anyone, I’d known Alton long enough to see that he’d keep my secret to hisself. I hated being forced to shy from the truth. I ain’t no liar, and being honest means something to me. I stared into Alton’s eyes, and for an instant I saw someone I could tell the truth to and feel safe.

“I ain’t a liar, Alton. And I don’t trust many folks, but I think you’re different. So truth is, I mailed my brother to Knoxville.”

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About the Author

Cindy K. Sproles is a speaker and best-selling,award-winning author of several novels, including Mercy's Rain, Liar's Winter, and Coal Black Lies. She is the executive editor for Christian Devotions Ministries and the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference. She also mentors and coaches new writers with Write Right Author Mentoring Services. She is an Appalachian-born-and-raised mountain girl who now lives in East Tennessee.

Connect with Cindy by visiting cindysproles.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of The Eyes of River and a $20 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 June 24, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 1, 2026. 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.

Enter Giveaway

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Movie Review: The Story of Everything

About the Movie:

The Story of Everything is a cinematic exploration of the cosmos that reveals the hidden hand behind our universe. From the precise laws that govern the stars to the intricate patterns found in every living cell, the film traces evidence of intentional design throughout nature. Whether examining distant star-forming clouds or the spiral structure of DNA, we discover a consistent signature woven into the fabric of existence.

After a successful nationwide theatrical run that sparked conversation across faith, science, and culture, The Story of Everything is now available to purchase on Amazon Prime Video!

Buy The Story of Everything now on Prime Video!

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Movie Trailer:

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My Thoughts:

The Story of Everything, a new film addressing the age-old question of how did the universe start, features numerous experts – scientists, mathematicians, physicists, etc. True to current documentary styles, The Story of Everything jumps between narration, scientific explanation, and expert opinion. The dialogue is clearly meant to be accessible for all of us non-scientists, and the film achieves that for the most part. During the discussion of cells, DNA, and proteins, I paused it a few times to think through the scientific process being presented and to google a bit more explanation. The information is astounding though. How fascinating that such tiny things are so complex and capable! I’m amazed.

I also enjoyed the chronological development of theories presented in The Story of Everything. From old ideas of god and heliocentrism to modern theories of antigravity, steady state, and universe expansion (which are explained in understandable terms), The Story of Everything shows the sequence of development from what humans have theorized, to what has been proven/disproven, to what is currently being theorized with a strong emphasis on the concept of intelligent design. The documentary clearly advocates for intelligent design, but it also addresses other theories of origin. It presents numerous experts and film clips of earlier scientists discussing/arguing in support of a super intellect.

While The Story of Everything advocates for intelligent design, it does so in a way that is respectful and factual. Yes, it is biased towards the idea of a Creator or supernatural being, but the narrative supports its ideas well. It does not include a specific religion though occasionally it does mention the theological aspect that inevitably must be considered when discussing origin theory. I already believed that the universe was created by God (of the Bible), so I didn’t need to be convinced about the concept of intelligent design. However, I do think that someone who is questioning universe origin theory would find this a helpful step in the process of forming his or her own conclusion. This presentation would likely do well in youth groups and high schools. It is worth watching at least once for everyone, regardless of current belief system.

4.5 stars.

Many thanks to Sypher Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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More Information and Resources:

• Inspired by Stephen C. Meyer’s bestselling book Return of the God Hypothesis, the cinematic documentary invites audiences to explore one of humanity’s oldest—and most consequential—questions: Does the evidence point to a universe shaped solely by blind chance, or is there evidence of purpose and design?

• Resources for churches and homeschools are available here.

• The Story of Everything is now available to own on Amazon Prime Video in North America, the UK, Australia, and subtitled for Mexico and Spain. Buy The Story of Everything now on Prime Video!

• “The response to this film has been incredibly encouraging,” said Stephen C. Meyer, author of Return of the God Hypothesis and featured expert in the film. “People from all backgrounds are asking bigger questions about where we came from and why we're here. Our hope is that The Story of Everything inspires curiosity, thoughtful conversation, and a deeper appreciation for the remarkable universe we inhabit.”

• Visit the social media pages for The Story of Everything: Facebook ⏐ Instagram

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Giveaway:

  

One commenter will win a $10 Amazon giftcard. Enter by leaving a comment below with your name and email. Alternatively, send an email to beautyinthebinding@gmail.com with the required information. Giveaway ends June 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.