Author Interview: Loving Sarah by Jo Huddleston

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Loving Sarah by Jo Huddleston, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Loving Sarah 
Author: Jo Huddleston 
Publisher: Forget Me Not Romances, a division of Winged Publications 
Release Date: May 12, 2026 
Genre: 1950s sweet small-town romance  

Sarah wears William’s engagement ring. Then, Robert arrives in town. 

In this love-triangle story, Sarah cheerfully manages the candy shop she inherited from her mama. Being engaged to be married to Gatlinburg, Tennessee’s most eligible bachelor, makes her life pretty much perfect. But then she meets Robert and has an unexplainable sense they’ve met before. 

Robert travels from Michigan to operate Gatlinburg’s main-street SkyLift attraction while his dad recovers from a fall. He’s miserable being relocated to this Tennessee mountains hick town. That is, until he meets Sarah and feels an instant attraction to her. He’s unaware that the town’s biggest secret involves him. 

Although she’s engaged to another, Sarah and Robert are mysteriously drawn to each other. This woman and her beloved mountains curb his desire to return to Michigan. Will Sarah give in to her feelings for Robert or be true to the man she’s promised to marry? 

Loving Sarah is steeped in the easygoing culture and traditions of the Smoky Mountains in the 1950s. The story is a sweet, small-town romance with a heart-wrenching battle to make the right choice. This book will keep you turning pages with its mix of loyalty, betrayal, uncertainty, and emotional stakes.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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Book Excerpt

Having grown up in these parts, Sarah knew many local people, but she wondered about this handsome stranger. He appeared extremely familiar, but she couldn’t put a name to him or remember where she might have met him. She didn’t want to be caught staring at him, but she continued to cautiously study him. Maybe it would come to her where she had seen him before.

Being engaged to William didn’t stop her from taking notice of a good-looking man near her age. It was like her frequent window shopping—she looked but didn’t choose to buy anything. After all, he didn’t wear a wedding ring.

His dark auburn hair held just enough curl to flip up in the back over the top of his white shirt collar. Many women in Detroit probably yearned to run their fingers through those curls, so unlike the shorter haircuts of the local men. The stranger didn’t appear to be from around here, with his expensive-looking suit, his shiny leather dress shoes, and the standoffish way he carried himself.

He unnerved her slightly by being near him. Alone in the waiting room, they were seated a respectable distance apart. Nevertheless, something like electricity buzzed between them in the small room. The sensation was like a magnet pulling them together. Once, he took a sideways glance at her. Did he feel the vibrations as well? His leather shoe tapped the floor continuously.

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About the Author

Jo Huddleston writes sweet Southern romances set in the 1950s, where you can escape into wholesome, faith-based love stories of deep commitment, hope, and happily-ever-after endings. Readers describe Jo as a wonderful storyteller whose books are sure to inspire and entertain you. Reviewers say her books should be Hallmark movies.

She likes to laugh with people, but not at people. The beach is her favorite vacation spot. She’s a spectator fan of several sports, with tennis being her favorite. She doesn’t enjoy being in the dark and is fearful of snakes! 

Jo holds a BA degree with honors from Lincoln Memorial University (TN), where she is a member of their Literary Hall of Fame. She earned the MEd degree from Mississippi State University. 

Please visit Jo's website and get a free book when you sign up for her newsletter.

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Author Interview

Q: What inspired you to write Loving Sarah?

Jo: Honestly, most of my story ideas just suddenly pop into my head. I don’t call them coincidences but God-incidences. I’ve never spent time searching for additional inspiration for a book. I write what God puts on my mind and heart.

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

Jo: After a book idea comes to mind, I don’t usually start writing right away. Oh, I may make a few brief notes about the general plot, main characters, a possible beginning, and how the story will end. Then, for some weeks, all that information simmers in my mind before I actually put words on a page. From the time I actually typed the first words of Loving Sarah, it took me almost seven months to finish writing the book.

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

Jo: When I started writing Loving Sarah, the story centered around a family issue. However, as I wrote the characters into the story, they began to interact and move the story more toward a romance. The original family issue is still there, but the story took on more energy and became more exciting to read because of the relationships formed among the characters.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote from Loving Sarah?

Jo: I have more than one favorite quote from Loving Sarah, but I’ll share this one from a conversation between Sarah and Robert.

“I still get the feeling we’ve known each other before.”

“Me too. But for whatever reason, I’m thankful God has given us time together. Maybe it’s best not to overthink His plans.”


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

Jo: In school, when we had to write themes (is that word even used now?). In writing those compositions, I learned I had a pretty good imagination, and I enjoyed using it to make up stories. Of course, after reading Gone with the Wind, I wondered if I could write such a story…I’m still trying.

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

Jo: I played varsity basketball in high school, but I never could skip rope or do a cartwheel.

Q: What are you currently reading?

Jo: I’m currently reading Closer Than She Knows by Kelly Irvin, a romantic suspense novel. I’ve never been disappointed with reading any of her novels and feel like I could pick out her characters on a crowded sidewalk.

Q: What is your favorite genre to read?

Jo: I’ve spent time reading several genres, from Amish to Regency to cozy mysteries. But psychological thrillers, or any mystery or suspense novels, are my favorite. I’ve never tried to write in any of those genres, but I enjoy reading them.

Q: What is your favorite hobby?

Jo: Reading, of course.

Q: What is your favorite season and why?

Jo: My favorite season is spring. As the days grow warmer, we can break out the sandals and enjoy more abundant sunshine. Spring brings us closer to beach trips, which I thoroughly enjoy.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card + eBook of Loving Sarah!

(2) winners will each receive the eBook of Loving Sarah!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 12, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 19, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No delivery restrictions. 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 Brewed Awakening by Pepper Basham

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Brewed Awakening by Pepper Basham, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Brewed Awakening 

Author: Pepper Basham 

Publisher: Thomas Nelson 

Release Date: May 5, 2026 

Genre: Small Town Contemporary Romance 

Daphne dreams of Mr. Darcy. Finn serves up pints and rock music. Can opposites attract when a tea shop princess meets her pub-owning rival? 

In the charming mountain town of Wisteria, North Carolina, Daphne Austen clings to tradition like cream to a scone. She's built her life--and her late grandmother's tearoom, Tea Thyme--around all things English: delicate china, Jane Austen novels, and the comforting predictability of routine. The only thing threatening her perfectly ordered world? The loud, aggravatingly handsome Brit opening a pub next door. 

After his ex-wife broke his heart and his business partner nearly destroyed his career, Finn Dashwood packed up his six-year-old daughter and left England behind. He's looking for a fresh start, and the last thing he needs is a fussy, tea-obsessed neighbor criticizing his every pint and playlist. It doesn't matter that she's ridiculously kind (to everyone else) and that his daughter is utterly fascinated by her. Finn's heart is not open to being broken again. 

But disagreements turn into prank wars and then a competition when a high-profile wedding needs a last-minute caterer. The townsfolk are thrilled--Wisteria hasn't seen this much excitement since the county fair lost a goat. 

When the wedding demands both sweet and savory fare, Daphne and Finn are forced to put down their swords and pick up their serving trays. Between burnt pastries, brewing tempers, trending hashtags (#SipsAndSpats, anyone?), and one very adorable little girl, rivalry soon gives way to reluctant friendship--and maybe something that feels suspiciously like chemistry. 

Can a tea shop princess and a pub owner with a past mix their lives as seamlessly as clotted cream and jam . . . or will their differences keep them steeped in rivalry forever? 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Thomas Nelson | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | BookBub | Bookshop

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Book Excerpt

The knowledge shot a direct line to his heart, propelling him to lose all sense and ask, “Would you like some . . . tea?”

She nearly choked down a swallow and turned to take a drink of water before looking back at him, a soft smile playing over her lips. “Do you actually know how to make superior leaf water?”

Her exaggeration pulled another smile from him. Their eyes met. Held.

And stuck.

He cleared his throat, turning back to the stove, grabbing the pot of oatmeal as an excuse to move. What was going on with him?

“Making tea and liking it are two very different things.”

“Actually, if you like it, you make it better.” She pointed her half-eaten toast at him like a culinary wand. “It’s science. Or magic. Or some equally inconvenient truth.”

He placed the oatmeal between their plates on the table and remained standing next to Daphne. “You’re calling me inconvenient?”

“Oh, definitely.” Her grin sharpened, eyes dancing. “And possibly a breakfast saboteur. This is a trap, isn’t it? You’re trying to sabotage my confidence before the wedding showdown. Undermine my competitive spirit with . . . delicious carbs.”

Good, the banter was back. Preferable. More manageable.

“Guilty.” He gestured toward the table. “Clearly, I’m superior.”

“Hardly.” She scoffed and crossed her arms. “This is a one-off miracle. No one should trust the culinary instincts of a man who thinks gas station coffee is a valid life choice.”

He chuckled, but it wasn’t the charming, calculated kind. It was real.

And it felt good to be…real with her. He gave his head a shake.

There she went again.

Slipping beneath his defenses like she’d done last night with that talk of food and grandmothers. Authentic. Unfiltered. And for some reason . . . more dangerous than flirting.

“Food can be terribly persuasive, Ms. Austen.” He leaned a little closer. “I might just win you over with it.”

She rolled her eyes in a way that should have been ridiculous. It wasn’t. It was unfairly charming.

Her grin tugged up at one corner like she enjoyed their back-and-forth just as much as he did.

Too much.

Like a daily dose of something he didn’t know he was craving.

Like something he might not want to live without.

He tried to shake it off. Keep things simple. Light. Like the past relationships.

Kiss and leave.

His gaze dipped to her mouth.

Right.

That’s all.

“Sweetness can be powerful, Mr. Perfect Teeth,” she corrected, lifting an eyebrow. “Doesn’t mean the rest of your cooking is.”

“Mr. Perfect Teeth?” He blinked. “That’s the best you’ve got?”

“I was taught to be nice, not just play nice.” That soft southern drawl wrapped around her declaration and tugged at something inside him.

He should’ve backed off. Thrown a joke in. Flirted just enough to cover the fact that she was getting under his skin in a way no one else had in a long time.

But she was standing so close, and her gaze kept flickering like she didn’t want to look—and couldn’t quite help herself.

That’s when the real trouble began.

“What’s wrong with both?” he asked, his voice lower now. “A little fun, a little . . . sweetness, all rolled into one?”

She snorted, even as her gaze drifted slowly down his frame and then locked with his again. And lingered.

His skin prickled with a sudden need.

“Fun, maybe,” she said softly. “But sweet is not a word I’d use to describe you.”

“No?” He stepped in. Just close enough to make her eyes widen slightly. “And how would you describe me?”

She hesitated, her attention snagged at the corner of his mouth—where a little smirk tugged, daring her.

“Dangerous,” she whispered.

The way she said it—barely there, barely brave—sucker punched him.

Because it wasn’t flirtation. It was a truth she hadn’t meant to say out loud.

And suddenly, he wanted to prove her wrong. Show her that there was more to him than cocky grins and casual charm. Once, he’d been the kind of man who knew how to love fully, without hesitation. And look where that had gotten him.

“Dangerous?” His voice dropped, the air between them shrinking by inches. His pulse spiked as his gaze roamed her face, drawn in by those too-perceptive eyes. “I’m not the one who’s dangerous, Daphne.”

Her brow furrowed. “I don’t . . .”

“Genuine kindness,” he said, voice rough, “is dangerous too. It makes people hope for things they shouldn’t. For things they can’t repay.”

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Also Available:

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About the Author

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Writing both historical and contemporary novels, she loves to incorporate her native Appalachian culture and/or her unabashed adoration of the UK into her stories. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of southwestern VA, where she is a wife, mom to five great kids, a speech-language pathologist, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive a signed copy of A Brewed Awakening, and winners choice of a Literary Beverage Mug or a Storming Castles mug!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 13, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on May 20, 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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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Book Spotlight: Miss Beth Bettencourt by Eva Marie Everson

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Miss Beth Bettencourt by Eva Marie Everson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Miss Beth Bettencourt 
Author: Eva Marie Everson 
Publisher: Kregel 
Release Date: May 12, 2026 
Genre: Southern Fiction/Christian Fiction

Will an unlikely romance tear down Beth’s walls of indifference? 

It's 1962 in Bynum, Georgia, and Beth Bettencourt's world is turned upside down when she wakes to a man snoring in the guest bedroom. 

She's home alone; her parents are traveling abroad, grieving her twin sister's unexpected death. Instead of accompanying them, Beth stayed in Bynum to tend to her kindergarten and closely guard her own heart. 

A beautiful and beloved member of the community, Beth is an unusual specimen for her time as she nears thirty and remains unmarried. She holds deep-seated unforgiveness toward her twin, Elise, who ran off with Beth's beau. To make matters worse, Elise took their grandmother's ring, which had been promised to Beth. 

But now a stranger enters her home and her world. David Patrick Martin seems ready to break down her walls of indifference and find the core of Miss Beth Bettencourt. But can he be trusted with Beth's past, her present, and more importantly, her future?

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

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Book Excerpt

“I decided to fully forgive Gordon. And Elise.”

 
Marty’s eyes opened, then slowly slid toward me. “That’s a good thing.”

 
“I cannot carry the anger anymore, nor do I want to.”

 
He beamed. “Learning to let go . . . that’s the best thing you can ever do.” He scooted up again. “But there will be times when the old hurts will rise again.”

 
“You speak from experience.”

 
“A lot of experience.”

 
“So what do you do when those old hurts return?”

 
He stood, walked over to the fire, which had died to blackened ash, and shoved his hands into the front pockets of his dungarees. “Give them to God.” He looked over his shoulder at me to offer another smile. “The only thing you can do. Ask him to take them, and he will.”

 
Fresh breeze stirred the air around us, and I shivered.

 
Marty crooked his finger. “Come on over here. There’s still some warmth coming off the leaves.”
I walked over, and as naturally as if I’d done it all my life, I linked my arm with his, then looked down into the firepit. The leaves glowed under the current of the wind.

 
“Don’t worry,” he said as if he’d read my mind. “I’m going to pile the dirt back over before we leave.”

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About the Author

Eva Marie Everson is a bestselling, multi-award-winning author of nearly 50 works of fiction and nonfiction. Collectively, her novels have sold over 300,000 copies. She is the CEO of Word Weavers International, the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference, and a popular speaker at writers conferences across the nation. Eva Marie is a double magna cum laude graduate of Andersonville Theological Seminary (Associate of Biblical Studies and Bachelor of Biblical Exposition) and of Tzemach Institute (a two-year program in Biblical Studies). In 2022, she was awarded the Yvonne Lehman Legacy Award and presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association). She and her husband live in Central Florida where they enjoy their children and grandchildren. They are owned by a Norwegian Forest cat named Vanessa.

Connect with Eva Marie by visiting evamarieeversonauthor.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(5) winners will each receive a copy of Miss Beth Bettencourt (winner's choice between ebook or print), Southern recipes, a Miss Beth Bettencourt bookmark, and a $10 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 11, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 18, 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Book Review: The Manhattan Confessions by Jocelyn Green

About the Book:

The streets of New York are brimming with secrets, and discovering the truth means navigating danger, deception, and an unexpected romance.

Ivy Malone, a New-York Historical Society librarian, is dedicated to preserving Manhattan's rich history, but when society grand dame Adeline King anonymously reveals her shocking life story, Ivy finds herself holding a highly coveted secret. Burdened with the responsibility of keeping Adeline's identity hidden, the matter grows increasingly complicated when two men claim ties to the elderly woman--one of them accusing Adeline of involvement in a crime.

Another dilemma brews when Ivy's Italian cousin, Gina, is detained at Ellis Island for lack of proper documentation. Hoping an immigration service can resolve the misunderstanding, Ivy employs their help but is instead thrust into a dangerous world. With time running out, she must unravel the tangle of secrets that bind Adeline's past, Gina's freedom, and her own safety. Who can she trust, and how far is she willing to go to protect those she loves?

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My Thoughts:

The Manhattan Confessions by Jocelyn Green had a fascinating premise: a wealthy, elderly woman shared her “confessions” of being an immigrant caught up with a gang and their wicked deeds. Jocelyn Green brought her signature writing style and attention to historical details in this 1920’s New York City mystery. The hulk of the novel rested in day-to-day living for Ivy and Tom as they went about their jobs, developing romance, and social lives. Although this approach offered lower excitement, it made the characters relatable. Throughout the story, various mysteries came to the forefront which helped hold my attention. Ivy’s attempt to untangle lies from truth was complicated by her cousin’s immigration to the United States. From that element, matters of immigration, immigration fraud, prejudice, and human trafficking entered into the story plot. A slow-burn, friends-to-more romance between Ivy and Tom rounded out the story.

The Manhattan Confessions landed as book three in Jocelyn Green’s On Central Park series. I recommend reading the books in order as characters from previous books have substantial roles. I believe the characters and story were more familiar and robust to me because I read the series in order. Four stars!

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

Book Review: The Jesus Discoveries by Jeremiah J. Johnston

 About the Book:

In an age of growing skepticism, many demand hard evidence before believing anything is true--especially when it comes to Jesus and the Bible. A kind of "artifacts or it didn't happen" attitude. Perhaps nowhere is this attitude more prevalent than when considering the claims of Christianity. The irony of this is that there are centuries of archaeological discoveries that support the narratives found in the Bible. Lost cities and civilizations, found. Lost art and technology, rediscovered. Lost documents, retrieved.

Okay, fine, the skeptic says. I'll give you cities and art. But what about Jesus? There's no actual evidence that he ever lived, right? Wrong.

In this eye-opening, faith-fortifying book from acclaimed New Testament scholar and minister Jeremiah Johnston, you'll encounter ten of the most compelling historic finds that corroborate the truth claims found in the Bible regarding who Jesus said he was, when and where He lived, His claims and aims, how His life ended, and how that wasn't the end of His story. Far more than a tour of the past, The Jesus Discoveries connects His story with your story, perhaps in ways you've never before considered--revealing how Jesus's story changes your story.

Read an excerpt on the publisher's website.

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My Thoughts:

The Jesus Discoveries: 10 Historic Finds That Bring Us Face-to-Face With Jesus by Jeremiah J. Johnston, Ph.D., started off with an extremely interesting chapter about the Shroud of Turin. It was one of the strongest chapters of the book. However, after I finished the book, I wished that the information about Jewish burial customs given in section three had been integrated with this chapter. The topics overlap, and I think it would have made the first chapter (and the third chapter about James’ ossuary) even better.

Unfortunately, some of the other historic finds presented in The Jesus Discoveries were not as potent due to weak evidence, a lack of explanation, or reliance on a contemporary’s opinion (which may or may not be based on legitimate evidence). I believe in Jesus, but I was not convinced by some of the information, especially when it required a stretch of reasoning in order to support the author’s claims. If I were an atheist or critic, I would not find materials depicting Jesus and healing as solid evidence that Jesus was both real and the Son of God, not just a magician or physician by the same name. It’s valuable, historical information that supports what I already believe, but it’s not irrefutable evidence to convince a skeptic.

The Jesus Discoveries: 10 Historic Finds That Bring Us Face-to-Face With Jesus by Jeremiah J. Johnston, Ph.D., was worth a read. Christians who want a book of historical information to back up their apologetic views will likely enjoy this book, especially if they are willing to overlook the weaker portions. A reader interested in Jesus would probably find it encouraging enough to continue studying Jesus of Nazareth. But a staunch atheist likely will not be convinced by this book. Three stars, for me.

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

Guest Post: A Girl's Guide to Having it All by Leslie Kirby DeVooght

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Girl's Guide to Having it All by Leslie Kirby DeVooght, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Girl's Guide to Having it All 
Series: Magnolia Bluff #3 
Author: Leslie Kirby DeVooght 
Publisher: Lanier Price Publishing 
Release Date: April 30, 2026 
Genre: Contemporary Women's Fiction with Romance

She mastered her career. Finding a husband? Not so much. 

High-powered political lobbyist Carleigh Chastain turns thirty-five with an impressive résumé, a packed calendar, and no love life to speak of. When her longtime friend—and former marriage-pact partner—Lawson announces he’s marrying a woman he barely knows, Carleigh does what any sensible best friend would do: she drops everything in DC and jets to Magnolia Bluff, Georgia, determined to save him from a costly mistake. 

Instead, her plans unravel, forcing Carleigh to confront the choices she’s made—and the ones she’s avoided. 

Meanwhile, Spencer MacDowell, her steady, loyal best friend since law school, is done waiting in the friend zone. 

As faith, friendship, and romance collide, Carleigh wonders if she’s been too busy chasing success to notice where God—and her heart—have been pointing all along. Funny, heartfelt, and romantic, this story asks what “having it all” really means.

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

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Book Excerpt

“It’s my birthday! My thirty-fifth birthday!” I waved my phone, adrenaline pumping through my veins like it was preparing my body for battle.

With his brows tugging together, Spencer retreated a few steps. “I know. Generally that’s why people light candles and put them in cupcakes.” He said the words haltingly, as if he was speaking a different language and I needed time to interpret each word.

Normally, his patronizing pace would’ve frustrated me, but in this moment, time needed to slow down and not just in the metaphorical sense. Actually, time needed to stop and reverse. If anyone still had a clock with hands, I’d have grabbed them and slung them in a counterclockwise direction. Instead, I zeroed in on the candles’ taunting flames and puffed them out.

“I’m surprised you’re this upset about being a year older. You seemed fine earlier.” Spencer reached out slowly and clasped my arm. “Let’s sit down.” He guided me to the couch and placed the offending cupcake with its accursed candles on the coffee table. “I know thirty-five is sort of a milestone birthday, but what about it—”

“It’s not the age thing.” I collapsed against the couch, covering my face with my hands.

“Ohh-kaay,” he drew out the syllables, adding an extra one to the end.

“Sorry, you don’t understand.”

“I’m really trying to.”

“I have to marry my best friend.”

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More in This Series

 

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About the Author

Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling author Leslie Kirby DeVooght writes women’s fiction with faith, love, laughter, and a lot of Southern charm. Her stories are inspired by romcoms, coastal Georgia, and fried okra! When Leslie isn’t writing, she’s cheering on her three children, and enjoying date nights with her husband, who loves that she researches kissing.

In addition to writing her own stories, Leslie co-owns Spark Flash Fiction, an online magazine that publishes short, short romance collections four times a year. 

 

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

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Guest Post by Leslie Kirby DeVooght: Writing Journey for the Magnolia Bluff Collection

When I first started writing contemporary romance novels, I set them on St. Simons Island, Georgia because it’s my hometown. They, whoever they were (I can’t remember. It’s been a minute…a long minute), said write what you know, so I did. Unfortunately, “they” forgot to mention that you can’t control what happens to real places. Islands are particularly problematic because of hurricanes.

With this knowledge, I created a fictional world for the Magnolia Bluff books, including the small town of Haslemere. It’s loosely based on Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls, especially the gazebo and the town meetings. Many places in Georgia owe their names to General James Oglethorpe, so I used parts of his history to name the streets and the town. Haslemere was Oglethorpe’s hometown.

In the first Magnolia Bluff book, Stealing Magnolias, the main character, Wren. She is from Chicago but obsessed with all things Southern, something I know a lot about, and her chance encounter with her favorite romance author, another subject I have an abundance of experience with.

For the second book, How to Sparkle, I wanted to share Wren’s design associate, Zoe’s love story. This novella was so fun to write. Although the timeline crossed with the first book which nearly killed me trying to make everything meld perfectly.

For book three, A Girl’s Guide to Having it All, I finally got to write a story I’ve been dying to tackle for years. I’ve always wanted the movie, My Best Friend’s Wedding, to have a happy ending for the Julia Robert’s character. It seemed easy until I realized how terrible the character’s goals are. Seriously, no one likes the person who breaks up a wedding, but I worked with Carleigh’s story until I found a way to make her both relatable and ready for a major transformation. John Mark Comer’s book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, really helped me develop Carleigh’s character in a way that hope also helps the reader. This story more has a lot of me in it and was actually really healing to write.

I’m excited to be polishing the fourth book in the collection and plan to give the novella to my newsletter subscribers at the end of June. Perfectly Imperfect is the story of Willa and Lawson who are the bride and groom in book three.

Magnolia Bluff has become like a real place to me. When I’m driving near where the fictional town would be in Georgia, I can’t help but want to take a side road and hope to find Haslemere. I’d really like a peach milkshake from the General’s Diner, but for now, I’ll settle with writing two more books for the collection. My plan is to write Willa’s brother, Wyatt’s story as a novella, and then to round out the collection with a full length novel about Wren’s sister, Robin.

As much as places change, so does life, so I can’t promise when to expect those stories, but I hope you’ll follow me for updates. If you want to visit another one of my fictional small towns, join me in Woodley, Georgia for my Love Inspired book, Taking a Second Shot, and for my newsletter giveaway book, If Only.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a bookish tote bag with all three books from the Magnolia Bluff series (A Girl's Guide to Having it All, How to Sparkle, and Stealing Magnolias)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 6, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 13, 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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