Today's Featured Books— Spotlight

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Trapped in the Past from author Indira Merritt, a time-bending coming-of-age novel about fatherhood, emotional inheritance, and the kind of healing that doesn’t just ask you to survive—but to transform. Perfect for fans of Back to the Future and On the Come Up, this heartfelt story blends rhythm, rupture, and radical reimagining.

★★★★★ "A heartfelt and creative story that blends music, time travel, and self-discovery." ~Amazon Review

Trapped in the Past

What if the only way to fix your future…was to confront the past that broke you?

Seventeen-year-old Lennox Merritt is tired of holes—the ones in his story, his home, and his hope.

When a prototype beat machine glitches, Lennox is hurled three decades into the past—alone, confused, and holding music the world hasn’t heard yet.

In a world of boom boxes, beepers, and block parties, he meets someone who feels too familiar. But getting home isn’t just about finding a way back—it’s about facing what he never wanted to feel: the grief, the questions, and the silence he thought he left behind.

Maybe the only way forward is by rewriting what hurt the most.

★★★★★ "A cross between Back to the Future and a hip-hop infused coming-of-age drama." ~Amazon Review

About the Author

       

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the Detective Hiroshi Series from author Michael Pronko, with a focus on the first three books of the series, all of which have been recognized with awards and high ratings from reviewers:

• The Last Train, Book 1 of the Series, 4.2 stars, 2000+ ratings
• The Moving Blade, Book 2 of the Series, 4.1 stars, 982 ratings
• Tokyo Traffic, Book 3 of the Series, 4.4 stars, 700+ ratings

Start the series today with a FREE DOWNLOAD of the e-book edition of The Last Train.

Bonus: Download a free copy of Tokyo's Mystery Deepens, Michael Pronko's award-winning collection of writing about life in Tokyo, when you sign up to receive his free newsletter.

"A rare glimpse of the structure and nature of Tokyo's underlying psyche.” ~Midwest Book Review

The Last Train

In Tokyo, murder is easy to hide.

Detective Hiroshi Shimizu investigates white-collar crime in Tokyo. When an American businessman turns up dead, Hiroshi is called to the site of the grisly murder where security camera video suggests the killer might be a woman.

Hiroshi's investigation takes him into the hostess clubs and skyscraper offices of Tokyo, and into the perilous market for buying and selling the most expensive land in the world. Information can travel in a flash from insiders at top investment firms to street-level punks and teenage hostesses, as everyone scrambles for their cut of lucrative land deals in the world's largest city. But Hiroshi is determined to cut through Japan’s ambiguities to find the murderer before she extracts her final revenge—which just might be him.

Praise/Awards for The Last Train

• “An absorbing investigation.” ~Kirkus Reviews
• “An utterly page-turning adventure.” ~Foreword Reviews
• “A terrific thriller.” ~BlueInk Review
• “Gripping and suspenseful.” ~Booklife/Publisher’s Weekly
• Winner, Shelf Unbound: Best Independently Published Book (2018)
• Winner, Book Excellence Awards: Best Mystery Solo Medalist (2017)
• Gold Award, Literary Titan Book Awards (2017)
• Silver Award, IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards (2017)

The Moving Blade

In Japan, the past is always present.

When the top American diplomat in Tokyo, Bernard Mattson, is killed, he leaves more than a lifetime of successful Japan-American negotiations. He leaves a missing manuscript, boxes of research, a lost keynote speech, and a tangled web of relations.

When Mattson's alluring daughter, Jamie, returns from America wanting answers but finding only threats, Detective Hiroshi Shimizu is dragged from the safe confines of his white-collar crime investigations into the street-level realities of Pacific Rim politics. When two more bodies turn up, Hiroshi must choose between desire and duty, violence or procedure, before the killer silences his next victim.

Praise/Awards for The Moving Blade

• “An elegant balance of Japanese customs with an American-style hard-boiled procedural.” ~Kirkus Review
• “A stellar novel with a unique storyline and setting.” ~Booklife Prize
• “A true page turner.” ~BlueInk Review
• Kirkus Reviews, Best Indie Mysteries and Thrillers (2018)
• Grand Prize Winner, Chanticleer Int'l Book Awards, Global Thrillers (2018)
• Gold Award, Literary Titan (2018)

Tokyo Traffic

In Tokyo, street smarts aren't always enough.

A young Thai girl escapes to Tokyo. With her Bangkok street smarts, she stays ahead of traffickers willing to do anything to recover the computer she took when she fled a murder scene. 

When Detective Hiroshi Shimizu leaves the safe confines of his office to investigate a triple murder at a porn studio, the leads point him in multiple directions. Together with an ex-sumo wrestler and his old-school mentor, Hiroshi tracks the killers through Tokyo's teen hangouts, bayside docks, and crowded squares, straight into the underbelly of the global economy.

As bodies wash up from Tokyo Bay, Hiroshi tries to find the Thai girl whose name he doesn't even know. Along the way, he uncovers trafficking rings and cryptocurrency scammers whose connections extend to the highest levels of Tokyo's power elite.

Praise/Awards for Tokyo Traffic

• "A dark and striking thriller." ~Kirkus Reviews
• "A gritty underworld whodunit." ~US Review of Books
• "Taut and terse, this noir novel is executed to perfection." ~Foreword Clarion Reviews
• Winner, Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award (2020)
• Gold Award, Literary Titan (2020)
• Reviewer's Choice, Feathered Quill Book Awards (2020)
• Winner National Indie Excellence Awards, Thriller (2021)

About the Author

        

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Sweetest Getaway from author Sasha Preston, a no spice, cozy heist novel with laughs, international intrigue, and the smartest heroines since Ocean’s 8. Perfect for fans of women’s fiction and crime capers. 

★★★★★ "An electric heist novel." ~Foreword Reviews

Bonus: Download a free copy of "A Sweet Scheme," a standalone short story featuring Martha Ramirez in a prequel to The Sweetest Getaway. No prior reading required.

The Sweetest Getaway

They’ll need the sweetest getaway ever to escape this mess…

Jennifer used to be a wholesome daydreamer who’d never broken a law in her life.

In a moment of weakness, she lets her roommate, Nari, rope her into a money-making scheme that isn’t exactly…legal.

How could she have known that stealing from bad guys would be so much fun?

Soon, Jennifer is so busy leading a double life that she barely has time to fantasize about the hot, dimpled stranger she met at one of Nari’s parties.

Everything is going smoothly, until someone rats them out to the cops.

Now, Jennifer and Nari need help from a team of seasoned criminals to pull off a heist that’ll either set them up for life…or get them locked up for a very long time.

Praise for The Sweetest Getaway

"A fun female caper filled with comedic mishaps and adventure...unexpectedly entertaining from start to finish." ~Readers' Favorite

"A gripping, girl-powered caper that sees a community of women joyfully come together." ~LoveReading

"A lively, funny, action-filled scheme, spiced by romance and fueled by female solidarity." ~IndieReader

"Roommates deepen their friendship while blurring the lines between right and wrong in the electric heist novel The Sweetest Getaway." ~Foreword Reviews

About the Author

        

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the Kings of Anarchy MC: Alaska, a new paranormal shifter romance series from USA Today bestselling author Kathleen Kelly:   

• Property of Blade: Book 1 of the Kings of Anarchy MC: Alaska series
• Property of Vex: Book 2 of the Kings of Anarchy MC: Alaska series

Property of Blade

A raw, gritty ride through Alaska's wild terrain, where danger lurks at every turn, and love is anything but easy.

Blade: Alaska is my kingdom, and as President of the Kings of Anarchy, I keep control of my men and secrets that could tear our lives apart. Life here is simple—no one asks questions, and I don't offer answers. But when I find Hannah stranded and out of her depth, everything shifts. She doesn't belong in my world, yet I can't stop thinking about her.

Hannah: I came here to escape my life in Los Angeles. A fresh start away from friends, family, and him. After my accident, he left me because I wasn't "perfect" anymore. For more than a year, I tried to make it work, but every time he looked at me, I saw the revulsion in his eyes. So, I sold everything I owned, packed up my cat, Grace, and moved to one of the remotest places I could find—Alaska.

Can Hannah accept the beast inside Blade and the broken men he leads, or will the brutal truth of their worlds rip them apart?

★★★★★ "If you enjoy bad boys, supernaturals and a bit of spice, Property of Blade will be right up your alley." ~Goodreads Review

Property of Vex

An electrifying new chapter in the Kings of Anarchy MC world.

Meet Ezekiel "Vex" Black, the no-nonsense VP of the MC, whose sharp wit and even darker edge make him a force to be reckoned with.

These bikers don’t follow anyone’s rules but their own, guided by the ironclad code laid down by the OG chapter. Anarchy—Where the Kings rule in chaos. Get ready, this journey is going to epic!

About the Author

          

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of award-winning author Christine Anthony, including two paranormal romance novels and a story of romantic suspense: 

• When I See Your Smile, Paranormal Romance, New Release: June 2025
• When I See You Again, Paranormal Romance, 4.8 stars, 16 ratings
• Good Citizens, Romantic Suspense, 4.9 stars, 11 ratings

When I See Your Smile

The heartwarming sequel to When I See You Again.

After waiting five years for Jillian to return to Haunted Harbor, Ethan Miller is finally ready to concede that dream is lost. But just as he takes the first step toward finding his special place, he crosses paths with a woman who fascinates and intrigues him.

Willow James has come to Haunted Harbor on a mission: find Ethan Miller. When they meet, desire flares. But what will Ethan do when he discovers Willow is hiding a secret that will change his life forever?

Enjoy this second story set in Haunted Harbor, Maine, a charming little town with a big secret. New characters and old favorites mix and mingle as Willow attempts to fulfill the promise she made to her best friend, a promise she won't break, not even for Ethan. Believe in the impossible in this story filled with romance, hope, and love.

★★★★★ "A great, heart warming read." ~Amazon Review

When I See You Again

Hoffer Award Honorable Mention. Reader Views Gold Award. IAN Book of the Year Finalist.

Allie Cunningham is beginning to build a new life following a devastating divorce, but those plans change when she world renowned composer Lucien Dukaine reenters her life. An impulsive decision on a road trip through the northeast brings them to the coastal town of Haunted Harbor, Maine.

Allie is completely charmed by the quaint little town and falls in love with an abandoned cottage. But after buying the cottage, Allie quickly discovers she's not alone in her new home.

Lucien refuses to leave Allie, even after a series of strange events have him fearing for her safety. Are some of the locals playing tricks? Or, has something more sinister taken up residence in the cottage. Answers may lie in the past, but before Allie and Lucien can discover the truth, they must first face their own personal demons.

★★★★★ "A Paranormal Romance that carries you away." ~Reader Views

Good Citizens

Reader Views Reviewers Choice Gold Award.

After nearly being killed while covering the war in Ukraine, Briley Jacobs returns to Coopersville, Arkansas, to rest and recuperate. A chance for romance arises when longtime crush, sexy sheriff Seth McKenna, reveals his feelings for Briley.

Their budding romance is interrupted when one of the good citizens of Coopersville is brutally murdered. Things get worse when the killer strikes again. Bodies begin to pile up as other victims are dispatched by a killer who leaves no evidence and no clues.

When a shocking revelation changes everything, Briley and Seth's relationship. When Seth disappears, Briley is determined to find him—even if it means coming face-to-face with a cold-blooded killer.

★★★★★ "A great plot twist that I never saw coming." ~Amazon Review

About the Author

        

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Taggarts by Hunter Davis, a series of Teen/Young Adult fantasy action/adventure novels that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages:

• Iron Runes: newly released prequel to the series
• The Wanderer: A Nation Begins: The Taggarts Book 1
• The Northern Woods: The Taggarts Book 2

Iron Runes

A gripping prequel to The Taggarts Series, Iron Runes unveils the origins of the fabled Power Bracelets and the choices that shaped their legacy.

Adin has always been an outcast—a dwarf boy shunned by his own kind, searching for a place to belong. But when he uncovers a secret that could change the fate of an entire kingdom, he is thrust into a perilous quest that will test his courage, his resolve, and his very destiny.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the adventure, this tale will sweep you into a world of danger, discovery, and one unlikely hero’s fight to stand tall.

★★★★★ "The perfect book for the 9- to 12-year-old fantasy enthusiast or, if you’re like me, the 30-year-old fantasy enthusiast." ~Amazon Review

The Wanderer: A Nation Begins

An epic tale of betrayal, survival, and an unstoppable fight for justice.

The epic saga of the Taggarts begins with Bar, a dwarf who uncovers the dark reign of King Ellon and becomes entangled in a world-shaking struggle. As shadows of betrayal deepen and the king’s wrath grows, Bar discovers ancient powers long buried and forgotten—forces that may tip the scales of fate. 

Meanwhile, the Taggarts don’t just challenge the forces of evil—they reshape the fate of Asteria itself. Time and again, they face impossible odds, saving their world with valor and cunning. As their deeds grow legendary, the Taggarts transform from a hidden family to a nation forged in heroism, destined to stand as the beacon of hope for generations.

★★★★★ "A well-crafted tale of survival, ambition, and destiny." ~Goodreads Review

The Northern Woods

A tale of heart, courage, and adventure that builds on the foundation of The Wanderer with greater stakes and deeper secrets.

Return to the captivating world of the Taggart Series in The Northern Woods, a gripping sequel that takes readers deeper into the lives of Bar, the wandering dwarf, and Tami, the royal elf.

On a desperate journey to escape King Ellon's relentless pursuit, the newlyweds and their loyal companions venture toward the vast northern woodlands. But survival is far from simple. Unforeseen challenges force Bar, Tami, and their friends to confront life-altering choices that will test their bonds and resolve. Along the way, the discovery of the enigmatic Bracelets of Power sets into motion events that will shape their destinies and unravel ancient mysteries bound to the series.

★★★★★ "Book one was good, but this is even better." ~Amazon Review

About the Author

    

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the Louisiana Murder Mysteries, a new series from Jim Riley, veteran author of 50 murder mysteries:

• Murder By the Bayou: Book 1 in the Series
• Murder Encrypted: Book 2 in the Series
• Murder and Needles: Book 3 in the Series

Murder By the Bayou

A Louisiana murder mystery that unravels a perilous web of deceit and greed in a culture known for its crawfish and jambalaya.

Lucky Stryker's decision to skip school to go fishing takes a deadly turn when he and two friends witness the body of Louisiana's wealthiest man being dumped into the bayou.

With millions at stake, the man's wife—significantly younger than her children—has plenty of motives. The kids, with secret lives of their own, have ample reasons to benefit from Caleb Glover's death.

Murder Encrypted

A high-stakes mystery where justice is anything but guaranteed.

After private investigator Niki Dupre receives an encrypted message, she learns that it came from a high school friend, now dead under suspicious circumstances. Soon, Niki herself becomes a target.

Attacked in her home and pursued across state lines, Niki uncovers a criminal network connected to Mississippi’s underworld. With her partner, Donna Cross, at her side, decoding the message becomes crucial for their survival.

Murder and Needles

Needles have been used for centuries. Sometimes for good. Sometimes not.

When men along the South Louisiana bayous die with needle marks, Niki Dupre is called to unravel the mystery. With her partner, Donna Cross, in the killer’s sights, Niki races against time.

About the Author

            

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the Sweet Sports Kisses Series, a multi-author collection of sweet/clean sports romcoms. Each story is connected through the Play It Forward organization, bringing heartwarming romance, humor, and just the right amount of competition. If you’re looking for a no-spice, kisses-only series with the perfect amount of swoon, then the Sweet Sports Kisses Series is for you.

To make this collection even more appealing, the e-book edition of each story is available for $3.99 or less—and ALL e-books in the series are free via Kindle Unlimited.

Bonus: Sign up for news from BYJBM Publishing to get new releases and free books sent straight to your inbox!

Blindsided By Fake Love

A jilted bride. A rebound marriage. And a lifetime of secret pining.

Beau: My teammates know I’m not the biggest party guy, and Vegas is not my scene. But they wouldn’t take no for an answer. When Christy ‘Kit’ Garrett, my high school nemesis, appears out of nowhere, wearing a wedding gown, I’m certain I’m hallucinating. Twelve hours later: I have a massive headache, a ring on my finger, and Kit sleeping next to me.

Kit: Yesterday I was set to go from Miss to Mrs., until my fiancé left me at the altar. That man was not Beau Matthews, Blindside Flanker for the Ironclad Marauders, so a dream about marrying him is beyond bizarre. But when Beau’s gruff voice penetrates my sleep-filled haze, I realize I'm not dreaming. 

★★★★★ "Fun and flirtatious!" ~Amazon Review

Fore-Ever Yours

A viral photo, a fake relationship, and one big problem.

Matthew: All I wanted was a quiet few days. Instead, I get coffee poured on me, a gossip scandal, and a fake girlfriend. My agent insists this PR stunt will boost my career. Fine. Except the more we fake this, the more I forget it’s not real.

Beth: One spilled coffee, a dramatic slip, and now I’m the leading lady in a sports romance I didn’t sign up for. But when Matthew offers me the perfect job, I can't say no. I need clients, and it's a simple plan. But when the contract ends, what happens to us?

★★★★★ "A heartwarming story filled with wonderful characters." ~Goodreads Review

Be Still My Racing Heart

A reformed bad boy, an heiress with a secret, and a forbidden love.

Blake:Groomed to run my father’s company, I dream of flying down the speedway. Instead, I spend my free time helping kids chase their dreams while waiting for fate to claim me. It’s not until Ryder and I collide—literally—that I know I have to break free and take control of my destiny. 

Ryder: One crash with my arch nemesis changed everything. Now, I’m forced into community service and facing the consequences of my recklessness—both on and off the track. Then she walks through the door, and I have only one goal: Win her heart.

★★★★★ "Sweet romance with a touch of rivalry." ~Amazon Review

A Player's Guide to Catching Feelings

A billionaire shortstop, a waitress who loathes him, and a disaster that has them stuck under one roof.

Avery: It's bad enough I'm working doubles at Clearway Park just to raise my baseball-obsessed brother. The last thing I need is Nash Fontaine—Chicago's most entitled athlete—as his new mentor. What's worse than falling for a playboy's charm? Try losing my big promotion for fraternizing with the enemy.

Nash: I'm one scandal away from losing my contract renewal. Living with Benji and his sister, Avery, wasn't part of my image rehab plan. But something about her challenges me like no one else ever has, and I realize I've caught the one thing I wasn't prepared for: Real feelings.

★★★★★ "A touching and heartwarming story." ~Goodreads Review

Romancing My Grumpy Goalie

A single mom. Her son’s mentor. They didn’t expect sparks to fly.

Lucas: Playing for the Arsenal was my dream, but after an injury, I’m stuck in the small town of Maple Creek as a goalie for a no-name team. As a way to return to the Arsenal, I agree to mentor a troubled kid. But when my mentee’s beautiful mom comes around, my plans fall into question.

Anabelle: As a single mom, I have to think positive. My boutique will be successful, and my ten-year-old son will thrive, despite his father's move across the country. I land a soccer mentorship for my son to cheer him up. Only his mentor is the biggest grump, even if he is easy on the eyes...

★★★★★ "Great grumpy/sunshine romance!" ~Amazon Review

You've Got (Chain) Mail

Two best friends, one secret love, and a battle for the heart.

Honor: Wes has always been my knight in shining armor. But I never expected him to become an actual knight—armor, sword, and all! I can't actually be attracted to my best friend...can I?

Wes: Twenty years ago, I fell in love with the smartest girl in kindergarten. But I didn't have the guts to tell her. Over the years, my love for Honor has only grown stronger. Will I fight for Honor's heart and risk everything for love, or will I let fear continue to keep us apart?

★★★★★ "Full of charm, heart, and just the right amount of medieval fun and fighting." ~Goodreads Review

(La)Crosse My Heart

He’s a pro on the field—but a disaster in front of a camera. She’s got one rule: no falling for clients.

Clark: I can dodge defenders and score from midfield, but stick a camera in front of me and I fall apart. Now my team is bringing in Jessa Stratton, a PR fixer, my best friend’s older sister, and the one person I’m not allowed to fall for.

Jessa: I’ve worked hard to build my career, and I follow one rule: never date a client. So of course my next assignment is Clark Denton. But he’s not the cocky player I remember. and I’m starting to see way too much good in him.

★★★★★ "A delightful story of taking big leaps." ~Amazon Review

The Comeback Play

A disgraced quarterback, a forgotten first meeting, and a second chance neither of them saw coming.

Drake: Everyone thinks I’m a draft bust who only cares about PR stunts. To prove them wrong, I need to clean up my image—starting with community service at Play It Forward. The problem? Lyla Wilder, the program’s administrator, clearly hates me. 

Lyla: Drake Blythe is exactly the kind of athlete I can’t stand—cocky, reckless, and completely unaware that we’ve met before. Now, I’m stuck babysitting him while drowning in work my boss won’t do.

★★★★★ "A book that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you breathless." ~Goodreads Review

About the Publisher

    

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Unconditional: A Story of Fatherhood, Lost Love, and Lifelong Friendship, a new novel from Stephen Kogon, a multi-faceted author who has written books, screenplays/scripts, comedy sketches, comic strips, and more.

Unconditional is a current #1 Best Seller in Adoption on Amazon.com. Read on to learn more!

★★★★★ "Beautifully explores themes of love, loss, growing up, mental health, friendship, fatherhood and family." ~Amazon Review

Unconditional: A Story of Fatherhood, Lost Love, and Lifelong Friendship

One decision could rewrite Matthew’s life—or forever alter a child’s future.

Matthew, an indecisive bachelor, never imagined parenthood. But when his brother’s sudden death leaves a newborn daughter stranded, Matthew faces an impossible choice: walk away or become a father overnight.

Meeting baby Allie changes everything. In a heartbeat, Matthew trades his carefree life for sleepless nights and diapers—and discovers a love fiercer than fear. With the help of his loyal best friend, Sherry, Matthew stumbles through the chaos of single fatherhood.

Over eighteen years, as life throws enormous challenges in their path—some forcing Allie to grow up faster than she hoped—their bond only deepens.

When the world tests them, will their unconditional love be enough to guide them through?

★★★★★ "A story that captures the heart." ~Amazon Review

About the Author

          

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the epic science-fiction of C. William Tressler, including a new release out today, July 8.

• Poncia Problems, Book 1 of the Kash and Calynn Adventures
• Disaster in Transport, New Release! Book 2 of the Kash and Calynn Adventures

Poncia Problems

In a distant future where the cosmos is governed by a coalition of the largest corporations, Kash, a former military operative known for his uncanny ability to acquire anything, finds himself on a mission unlike any other. Teaming up with his loyal pilot Calynn, who boasts a synthetic body and extraordinary powers, Kash's reputation and skills are put to the ultimate test.

Kash falls in love with a mysterious woman, but his world is turned upside down when she is abducted. Determined to rescue her, Kash and Calynn embark on a relentless chase across the stars. Their journey unveils a conspiracy reaching the highest echelons of the corporate government.

As they navigate treacherous space and confront powerful adversaries, Kash must rely on his military training and Calynn's unique abilities to unravel the truth and rescue the woman Kash loves from the clutches of corruption and deceit.

Praise for Poncia Problems
★★★★★ "Full of badass action, naughty romps, and clever/funny banter." ~Amazon Review

Disaster in Transport

Kash is a man of principle. Mostly. He prefers to keep his head down, his debts paid, and his ship—the Alley Cat Savant—safely among the stars. As a privateer with a hard-earned reputation, he roams the known galaxies taking on specialized tasks to carve out a living, all while steering clear of corrupt government bureaucrats.

When a favor pulls Kash into a high-stakes deal with one of those very bureaucrats, Kash quickly learns some jobs are too dangerous to ignore—or walk away from.

With his brilliant and beautiful partner Calynn at his side, Kash dives headfirst into a mission he knows better than to accept. What starts as a simple errand spirals into a war for survival. 

Explosive action, razor-sharp banter, and a heaping dose of heart make this high-octane space opera perfect for fans of daring rogues, found family, and galaxy-spanning adventure.

About the Author

        

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the high-quality historical novels published by History Through Fiction—and on the HTF community of readers, writers, and history lovers. Read on to learn more!

A Community of Historical Fiction Lovers

• Readers can learn about recent releases like the three titles featured below (including two free e-books!), join the Historical Readers Club, follow the HTF blog (including a post today about forthcoming releases), subscribe to the HTF Podcast, read short stories and novel excerpts, and more.
• Writers will find a short story contest, advertising opportunities, workshops (including a free Write. Revise. Repeat. session on July 3), and learn about the 2026 Historical Fiction Conference for writers and history enthusiasts.

South of Sepharad by Eric Z. Weintraub

Fleeing death by the Spanish Inquisition, a Jewish doctor makes an impossible choice between home and faith, then struggles to lead his family on a journey for a new life.  

GRANADA, SPAIN, 1492. Vidal ha-Rofeh is a Jewish physician devoted to his faith, his family, and his patients. When Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand order all Jews to convert to Catholicism or depart Spain, Vidal and his family leave their their oldest daughter with her Catholic husband and join a caravan of 200 Jews to start their lives anew across the sea in Fez.

On the caravan, Vidal struggles to balance his physician duties and strained family relationships. At the same time, his daughter finds herself exposed to the Spanish Inquisition. Presenting readers with a painful but important part of Jewish history, South of Sepharad is a heroic, heart-breaking story of a father who holds tightly to his faith, his family, and his integrity.

Praise for South of Sepharad
"An epic, historical novel." ~John W. Jarrett, author of The Dark Prairie

"Insightful, compelling, and poignant." ~Teofilo F. Ruiz, author of Spain's Centuries of Crisis: 1300 - 1474

An End of Troubles: An Anthology

Discover stories where diverse characters confront pivotal historical moments, challenging their resilience and sparking transformation.

Step into a world where history and fiction intertwine in a collection that features ten stories that showcase the power of storytelling to illuminate the past. Each story was a winner in the History Through Fiction short story contest, including the story of a young wife who finds her artistic voice during the Great Depression via a union's musical; a former British soldier who seeks redemption by returning a cursed diamond to India; a soldier in Thebes who must choose between avenging his father and preserving his home as Spartans march to reclaim the city; a servant woman at a Scottish castle who reflects on her encounter with Mary Queen of Scots; and more 

Praise for An End of Troubles
★★★★★ "A great collection of short stories about various historical events." ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "Well-written and evocative of their respective periods." ~Goodreads Review

The Porcelain Menagerie by Jillian Forsberg

In a world where ambition is as fragile as porcelain, two lives are shaped by a king's dangerous obsessions.

In 18th-century Dresden, the dangerous whims of King Augustus the Strong shape the court and the lives of those held captive, both people and animals.

Johann Kändler, a talented young artist, is drawn into the world of King Augustus, whose relentless desire for a lifelike porcelain menagerie could make or break Johann's future. As Johann works to meet the king's impossible demands, he finds unexpected allies in former royal mistress Maria and her daughter Katharina. 

Decades earlier, another story unfolds. Fatima, a Turkish handmaiden, is chosen to replace Augustus's discarded mistress. As she tries to create a menagerie of exotic animals and navigate the intrigues of an unpredictable court, Fatima must learn to survive in a world that values beauty and power above all. 

Two timelines, bound by a king's obsessions...art and survival intertwine in a world where ambition can be as fragile as porcelain.

Praise for The Porcelain Menagerie
"Plumbs the depths of possession, resistance and survival." ~Jess Armstrong, author of The Curse of Penryth Hall

"Historical fiction at its most evocative." ~Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Blue

About the Publisher

          

Ready for something new and exciting? Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Blue Veil, a genre-breaking sci-fantasy epic from LoveBrain that has been described as "Mythpunk at its finest."

What is Mythpunk? Who is LoveBrain? How can you experience Blue Veil? How can you get three chapters free? Read on to learn more!

"I don't believe anything is perfect but this was close to it." ~Amazon Review of Blue Veil

Blue Veil

A genre-breaking sci-fantasy epic about transformation, spiritual warfare, and the long road to reclaiming yourself.

Addiction. Reincarnation. A shattered world in orbit around its own annihilation.

Charlie is just trying to survive her latest relapse when a stranger drags her out of withdrawal and into the sky—literally. Now she’s on the run through a broken world of floating continents, mythological gods, and vicious valkyries who remember a past life she can barely face.

But Charlie has a secret:
She used to be someone else.
Someone powerful.
Someone dangerous.

As memories of her former self begin to surface, Charlie is forced to choose between the needle and the sword—between forgetting everything, or becoming the very thing that once shattered the world.

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on contemporary women's fiction/romance from M. Jacqueline Murray—specifically, on the first two books of the Maddie & Nate Series:

• Out of Time: 4.6 stars, 35 ratings on Goodreads
• Next Time: 5.0 stars, 8 ratings on Amazon

Maddie & Nate is a dual point-of-view series that follows two soulmates through three variations of their lives, each time with a different meeting point: late in life (Out of Time), mid-life (Next Time), and early (Our Time). Their story explores the complexities of romance and intimacy at every stage. 

★★★★★ "A wonderful love story...magical and endearing." ~Goodreads Review of Out of Time

Out of Time

Life has a time limit. Love doesn’t.

For most of her 78 years, Maddie Cole has done things the "wrong" way. But throwing out the societal rule book meant sacrificing romantic success for career highs—a move she’s never regretted...much. Now retired, she relishes the freedom to travel with her daughter, Anne. Their latest trip is a long weekend in picturesque Bar Harbor in Maine. 

Octogenarian Nate Jacobs has always taken pride in doing things the "right" way. He built a successful legal career, and now retired and widowed, he runs a tight ship at the Hope Point Lighthouse B&B. Perhaps that’s why Maddie, with her disregard for convention, catches his eye.

When Anne is unexpectedly called away on business, Maddie finds herself compelled to stay on at Hope Point, alone. Over breakfast conversations and long walks, Nate and Maddie’s friendship deepens, even as old memories return to haunt them. Except this time, the past starts to clear a path for the future...

★★★★★ "A beautiful story of two people who crossed paths over a lifetime and finally connected when it was right." ~Goodreads Review

Next Time

Two strangers. One bar. Bad timing?

The night Maddie Cole and Nate Jacobs find themselves in the same place, at the same moment, with an hour to kill...a spark ignites. Engineer Maddie’s determination to conquer a male-dominated industry captivates Nate’s imagination, even as his steadfast loyalty starts a glow in Maddie’s heart.

But with marriages and children in tow, anything more than friendship would mean social and emotional carnage.

As Maddie and Nate’s paths continue to cross professionally, their affections blossom into a force that can’t be ignored. And one night, when nature conspires to force them together, their resolve unravels completely. Will imploding their personal lives end in heartache, or a soulmate?

This is the second iteration of Maddie and Nate’s love story, set in the 1970s where the constraints of the era and their responsibilities change this love’s trajectory forever.

★★★★★ "A romance that appeals to both sexes and accurately depicts love and the complexities it brings." ~Amazon Review

        

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of author Heather Reyburn, including the newly released Letters in Blue, book one of the new Outback Skye Series. 

Heather grew up on her family's New Zealand sheep and cattle farm, and rural life provides the inspiration for her novels...stories filled with drama, mystery, and love from picturesque settings in New Zealand and Australia. 

Bonus: Get a free e-book edition of Grace, a prequel to Heather Reyburn's Tullagulla Series of rural/small town fiction. 

Letters in Blue

From the sunburnt plains of Outback Australia to the misty shores of the Isle of Skye, the fates of two women are intertwined by heartbreak, mystery, and the relentless pull of destiny.

2024: Ingrid Sloane is burnt-out. When the opportunity for a break from her nursing career in Australia finally arrives, she is drawn to visit the Isle of Skye, her grandmother’s birthplace. But a chance meeting with Fergus, a local Scot, and his nephew, Callum, leads to an unexpected discovery—a bundle of pale blue aerogrammes (letters sent via airmail). The suggestion of a long-lost love touches Ingrid, and with Callum’s help, she embarks on a quest to reunite the authors of the intriguing letters.

1990: Lucy Pellegreen found the perfect life on the Isle of Skye—a man she adored and a future brimming with possibilities. But when a family emergency sends her home to the Australian Outback, the precious letters from Scotland become the only reminder of the love waiting there. Before she can return, one tragic twist changes everything, leaving her lost to the past in more ways than one.

Will Ingrid’s search for answers lead to her own happiness? Or is history doomed to repeat itself?

      

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Madison Love, an award-winning, Amazon best-selling, clean, and contemporary romance writer who loves to intertwine humor and suspense while adding a dash of sweetness. Featured today are three box sets:

• Smoochin' The Best Friend Box Set
• Just4You Matchmaker Series
• The Shining Knight Protectors Box Set

"Love has been blessed with an extraordinary gift for weaving compelling narratives that resonate with her audience." ~Louise Jane, CEO, The Christlit Book Awards

Smoochin' The Best Friend Box Set: Four Christian Small Town Romances

Genres: Women's Christian Fiction
Price: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)

Four heartfelt romance novels filled with faith, family, friendship, and just the right amount of humor.

Welcome to Baggersville, Texas—a town where community matters, cornhole is taken seriously, and love sometimes shows up when you least expect it. Included in this box set: 

• Smoochin’ the Wrong Twin (4.7 stars, 151 ratings): Pop star Joelle Summers comes home to lay low. But her plans to fake-date her childhood crush gets complicated when spending time with his twin brother brings back more than memories. 
• Smoochin’ the Surly CEO (4.8 stars, 134 ratings): Beloved art teacher Gabby has kept friends at a distance to protect her secret. Surly CEO Tim failed once when he pursued her, but he’s determined to get it right the second time.
• Smoochin’ the Right Twin (4.8 stars, 100 ratings): Influencer Merdy returns to Baggersville for a reset in her career. But Hunter, her longtime friend, has been waiting for a chance at romance. 
• Smoochin’ the Reticent Ranger (4.8 stars, 134 ratings): Wounded warrior Ace returns to piece together his life. Elise, a warrior in her own right, decides their happily-ever-after is worth fighting for.

★★★★★ "A sweet, swoon-worthy, clean romance with a lovely life lesson woven throughout." ~Goodreads Review of Smoochin' the Wrong Twin

Just4You Matchmaker Series: Sweet and Clean Romantic Suspense

Genres: Clean & Wholesome Romance
Price: $4.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)

Three fun, light-hearted, swoon-worthy romantic suspense stories that have a touch of sweetness and a dash of humor.

• Matchmaking The Undercover Agent (4.8 stars, 97 ratings): Amelia is a matchmaker who’s never been matched. Ethan is a famous rockstar and her brother’s best friend. He’s sexy. He’s sweet. And he’s completely off-limits.
• Matchmaking The Grumpy Doctor (4.6 stars, 114 ratings): A nurse should never fall in love with a patient, but no one said anything about their grumpy, silver fox, single dad.
• Matchmaking The Firefighter (4.6 stars, 109 ratings): What happens when the matchmaker pairs an arson investigator with a sexy firefighter who has a hero complex? You get a case of mistaken identity, a fake fiancé, and a world of trouble.

★★★★★ "Great series! All 5-star books!" ~Amazon Review

The Shining Knight Protectors Box Set: Six Sweet, Christian Romantic Suspense Stories

Genres: Women's Christian Fiction
Price: $9.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)

Six intertwined Christian romantic suspense stories that are action-packed and filled with love, humor, and intrigue.

• Valiant (4.7 stars, 159 ratings): My job is to save lives, but when I start fearing for my own, my family hires a protection specialist who happens to be my secret crush. 
• Honor Bound (4.8 stars, 112 ratings): When I left the love of my life under the cover of darkness, I never imagined I'd return the same way.
• Worthy (4.7 stars, 133 ratings): Undercover as a nanny, I protect a billionaire hockey player and his spirited daughter while hiding my true identity.
• Resolute (4.7 stars, 120 ratings): As a foster mom to six rambunctious kids, my peaceful life turns chaotic when a new arrival—a drug lord's son—draws danger. 
• Daring (4.8 stars, 128 ratings): Discovering I have a brother is one thing; protecting his best friend, Detective Elijah Kincaid, is another.
• Fearless (4.8 stars, 120 ratings): When my parents vanish during a couples' retreat, I’ll do anything to find them—even marrying my father’s best friend.

Winner: 2025 Christlit Book Award

About the Author

Madison Love has spent most of her life traveling abroad, discovering new places, and meeting wonderful people. It only took twenty years in the military before settling in a rural town outside of Buffalo, New York, where she now lives on a forty-acre farm with her husband, son, and two dogs. Having been afforded the time and opportunity to bring her ideas and stories to life, she seeks to give her readers the "happy-ever-after" they seek, but with a dash of intrigue. Learn more at MadisonLoveRomance.com where you can also sign up for her ARC Team and her e-mail list—scroll to the bottom of any page to sign up! Be sure to also follow Madison online:
 

      

Pioneers crossing the Oregon Trail...American Legionnaires returning from the Great War...pilots soaring across skies while dodging anti-aircraft flak...Rosie the Riveters sacrificing life as homemakers and mothers to weld ships and pound rivets into aircraft wings...these are the stories author Julie McDonald Zander loves to share. Read on to learn more about her critically acclaimed historical fiction and biographies.

Bonus: Sign up for Julie's newsletter and get a FREE copy of Retracing the Oregon Trail in Pictures, a color pictorial of the route traveled by thousands of early pioneers in the 19th century.

Shattered Peace: A Century of Silence

A forgotten diary. A century-old secret. A town still haunted by its past.

When former Navy Seabee Colleen Holmes inherits an old house in Centralia, Washington, she sees it as a chance to escape her own ghosts and start anew. But when she discovers a faded diary and a bundle of love letters, she unveils the tragic choices that shattered lives and fractured a town, and learns that the wounds of yesterday still shape today.

Inspired by true events, Shattered Peace is a gripping time-slip novel of love, loss, and the echoes of history that refuse to fade. Perfect for fans of The Alice Network and The Girl You Left Behind, this haunting tale of resilience, redemption, and the pursuit of truth will linger long after the final page.

Praise for Shattered Peace
"A heartbreaking story of families torn apart." ~Melanie Dobson, author of Catching the Wind

"Forges new paths toward peace and understanding in ways readers won’t see coming." ~Midwest Book Review

"An incredible dual-time story." ~Leslie Gould, A Brighter Dawn

The Reluctant Pioneer

A pioneer woman’s journey, inspired by a true story.

Matilda Koontz cherishes her life as a wife and mother on a Missouri farm. But her hardworking husband wants to claim free farmland in the Pacific Northwest, so in the spring of 1847, Matilda and Nicholas Koontz and their sons embark on a grueling journey westward on the Oregon Trail.

Disease, accidents, starvation, and a multitude of hazards threaten Matilda's family on their journey, causing her to wonder if they will reach the trail’s end and if the babe growing inside her will survive. But when tragedy strikes, the question changes: How can she possibly continue?

Praise for The Reluctant Pioneer
"A heart-rending, beautiful tale inspiring us to relate to the courage, heartbreak, and joys of an amazing woman.” ~Barbara Tifft Blakey, Bertie’s War

"Captures the unwavering hope of one woman who began the walk to Oregon Territory in 1847." ~Melanie Dobson, Where the Trail Ends

"A must-read for fans of historical fiction and of strong women.” ~Dawn Shipman, author of the Lost Stones of Argonia Series

Winning a War

Stories of those who served, suffered, and sacrificed during WWII.

Ten Southwest Washington residents describe their participation in the fight to protect our freedoms...

A Dutch woman recalls her brothers' activities in the Dutch resistance, the Jews who took refuge on their family farm, and the price paid by her family when the Nazis arrived... Three survivors of the attack at Pearl Harbor share their views of the battle from the USS California, the USS Nevada, and Ford Island... After the Japanese torpedoe the USS Selfridge, a sailor salvages materials to build an ice cream maker and boost the crew's morale... A Northwest native in the Sixth Army Rangers raises the flag on Dingagat Island in the Philippines, heralding General Douglas MacArthur's return... and more.

Praise for Winning a War
★★★★★ "An amazing account of veterans and heroes who fought to keep us free during World War II.” ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "Amazing true stories of World War II." ~Goodreads Review

About the Author

          

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Dr. Evette Rose, Holistic Counsellor, Ph.D., MBA, and author of 19 books written to support people in their healing journeys. 

In today's special edition newsletter, we are focusing on three of Dr. Rose's books—including a FREE e-book:

• Restoring the Emotional Body - new release available as a free e-book
• Metaphysical Anatomy - 4.7 stars, 1400+ ratings on Amazon.com
• Abundant Mindset - Breaking Through Financial Barriers

You can see all of Dr. Rose's books at MetaphysicalAnatomy.com, where you can also learn about several free online master classes (including one on June 18!) and other offerings from Dr. Rose, including Metaphysical Coaching Technique, Workshops, Self-Paced Courses, and Healing Retreats. 

Restoring the Emotional Body: A Practical Guide to Feeling Again

New release: June 5, 2025
Genres: Self-Help, Emotional Self-Help
Paperback: $6.73
E-book: FREE download from the author (Also available for $0.99 via Amazon.com, free via Kindle Unlimited.)

YOUR BODY REMEMBERS WHAT YOUR MIND TRIES TO FORGET

Have you ever felt stuck—not just in your thoughts, but in your body? Like something deep inside is frozen, aching, waiting to be acknowledged? Restoring the Emotional Body is not just a book—it’s a sanctuary for anyone who’s tired of “keeping it together” while silently falling apart.

This deeply compassionate guide explores the emotional, neurological, and metaphysical roots of your pain—without overwhelming you with medical jargon or academic theory. This is a simple, easy-to-read book designed for real people with real emotions, who are ready to finally understand what their body has been trying to say.

Bonus: Healing Meditation with Guided Healing Session Video

Metaphysical Anatomy: Your Body is Talking, Are You Listening?

Genres: Mental & Spiritual Healing, Personal Transformation Self-Help
4.7 stars, 1400+ ratings
Paperback: $45.95

Decode the hidden messages behind mental and physical ailments.

Under each disease, you will find emotional components and precise key points that guide you toward effective alternative healing methods and help you uncover the core issues. Metaphysical Anatomy explores diseases from A to Z, revealing the emotional components connected to each condition and providing practical insights on how to approach them to improve your quality of life. The book also includes reflective questions to support you in diving deeper into your psychosomatic journey and offers a step-by-step guide for identifying the psychosomatic patterns linked to medical issues. 

Whether you are an experienced alternative healing practitioner or someone exploring self-healing for the first time, this book will become an invaluable resource.

Abundant Mindset: Breaking Through Financial Barriers

Genres: Personal Transformation, Self-Help
Paperback: $17.95
E-book: $15.95

Break through financial barriers to create prosperity and abundance.

A great guide to getting your money in order and becoming successful. Manifest success and heal blocks to abundance. Get clear about your values and ancestry to empower your financial future. Create awareness around your relationship to money for lasting change.

If you can resolve and release these issues, you will open yourself up to a more prosperous future. Once you identify your blocks, you can start working on resolving them. With a little effort, you can transform your finances and set yourself up for prosperity.
 

About the Author
Dr. Evette Rose is a Holistic Counsellor, Ph.D., MBA, author of 19 books, Leader in Somatic and Psychosomatics, founder of Metapsychology Coaching™, Metaphysical Anatomy Technique, Integrative Soulful Therapy (IST), YouTuber, speaker, and author of 19 books. She strives to support people in their healing journeys and is best known for her work in helping people recover from the trauma of their past, as well as addressing psychosomatic symptoms and freeing them to live successful and fulfilling lives. She's internationally famous for writing Metaphysical Anatomy Volume 1, a book of 722 medical ailments and their hidden emotional and somatic patterns. She also wrote Psychosomatics of Children, including hundreds of children's ailments and their psychosomatic patterns. Learn more at MetaphysicalAnatomy.com, and be sure to also follow her online: 
 

        

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Dr. Heather Kristian Strang, a mystic, metaphysical psychologist, and Amazon bestselling author:

• Radical Abundance in Radical Times: The Oracle: New Release June 11, 2025
• Love Letters from Mary Magdalene: 4.6 stars, 44 ratings
• The Angelics: Wildest Dreams: 4.9 stars, 30 ratings

★★★★★ "Dr. Strang’s ability to hear what needs to be heard and write what needs to be written is a true gift to those of us asking, seeking, and knocking." ~Amazon Review

Radical Abundance in Radical Times: The Oracle

Forever Change Your Path With Abundance!

It’s easy to think that your abundance—in cash-money, health, food, and all forms of prosperity—is tied to an economy, a job, the circumstances you were born into, or even to world events. And yet, we want you to know it’s not.

Your abundance is tied to your alignment, embodiment, and unification with your Higher Self. This Oracle features the wisdom of Mary Magdalene, Jesus Christ, Gautama Buddha, St. Francis of Assisi, Mother Mary, King David, King Solomon, Archangel Michael, John the Baptist, and more. Daily reading of these transmissions will uplift you to a new level of abundance and wealth.

This Oracle is for you if you'd like to co-create more abundance in your life or if you desire insights on how to live in Radical Abundance during this Radical and important time on Earth.

Love Letters from Mary Magdalene

The Untold Tale of Her Life, Love & Legacy

Imagine if the stories you've heard about Jesus and Mary Magdalene, both from religious traditions and new age spirituality, only scratched the surface of their true tale. What if their extraordinary journey could unlock a deeper, more fulfilling experience in your own life today?

Love Letters From Mary Magdalene promises an enthralling journey that will leave you breathless with each turn of the page. Prepare to be captivated by the untold tale of the profound bond between Mary and Yeshua (known as Jesus Christ)—and how their story resonates with your own life, here and now.

Praise for Love Letters from Mary Magdalene
"A book that demonstrates the power of love and what's possible when one lives a divinely-led life." ~Astara J. Ashley, CEO/Publisher, Flower of Life Press

"An old story reimagined to shed light on the current times." ~Emily Trinkaus, Embodied Aquarian Astrologer

"An extremely moving and mystical story." ~Aletheia Sophia, author of The Grail King

The Angelics: Wildest Dreams

Fated Mates. Small Town Love. Angel Romance. Happily Ever After.

Veronica’s intuition screams two things: One, she’s destined to be a bookstore owner. And two, her soulmate is somewhere out there. After a crushing breakup and a string of unfulfilling bookstore retail jobs, she relocates to a small town on the Oregon coast where her life is about to take a mystical turn.

Through a series of prophetic dreams, she uncovers her Beloved. And he’s a literal rock star. He’s facing his own struggles while trying to pursue his soul desire of healing others with his music. 

More than just a romantic fantasy, this psychic romance can also serve as a guidebook for anyone seeking to unite with their Beloved or Soulmate. This metaphysical fantasy features small-town love, dating a celebrity, and a PG-13 clean romance.

Praise for The Angelics
★★★★★ "An amazing and inspiring story that touched my heart." ~Goodreads Review

★★★★★ "A refreshingly magical romance with a soulful twist." ~Amazon Review

    

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Whispers Between Worlds: Exploring the Boundaries of Science and Spirituality, a short read from Reece Kerridge-McColl that focuses on spirituality and "explores moments of mystery that defy explanation." 

Whispers Between Worlds: Exploring the Boundaries of Science and Spirituality

What if the truth isn’t found in answers, but in questions?

In Whispers Between Worlds, Reece Kerridge-McColl takes us on a personal journey across the borders of science and spirituality. Raised among Christian traditions but drawn to crystals, energy, and ancient wisdom, he explores moments of mystery that defy explanation—childhood memories of unseen visitors, the stillness at the moment of death, and the unshakable feeling of something more.

With reflections on Buddhism, Islam, fiction, reincarnation, and music’s emotional resonance, this book is a bridge between belief and doubt. It’s for the agnostic, the spiritual, the curious, and the questioning.

This is not a manifesto. It’s an invitation—to listen, to wonder, and to rediscover the sacred in the space between worlds.

Praise for Whispers Between Worlds
★★★★★ "A very interesting read that gets you questioning your own experiences." ~Amazon.co.uk Review

★★★★★ "Comforting and challenging all at once." ~Amazon.co.uk Review

★★★★★ "A great, short read. My mind is blown!" ~Amazon.co.uk Review

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on several recent and forthcoming releases from History Through Fiction, an independent publisher of high-quality historical fiction. 

Special Offers: Get a free e-book edition of The Rhino Keeper, a highly rated recent release, and order new titles direct from the publisher to get your copies in advance of official release dates.

The Rhino Keeper by Jillian Forsberg

Based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who traveled with an Indian rhinoceros called Clara across 18th century Europe.

2022 – College student Andrea Clarkson uncovers a historical mystery while studying abroad in Holland. From hidden desk drawers come unusual historical documents featuring a rhinoceros. On a lichen-covered eighteenth-century grave, the same animal is carved. When an expanding river forces exhumation, what she finds buried there is life-changing. Andrea faces her nightmares to retrieve what a grave robber steals: valuable proof of a long-forgotten history.

1740 – Ship captain Douwemout van der Meer has something not seen in two hundred years: Clara, the only rhino in Europe. Douwemout and Clara tour Europe, enthralling peasants and queens, hoping to change popular views that rhinos are man-eating beasts. But when a priest sees idol worship and becomes hell-bent on destroying Clara, the lives of Douwe, Clara, and her caretakers are at risk.

The Rhino Keeper evokes both the thrill of discovery in the archives and the wonder felt by a world in which no European had seen a living rhinoceros. 

Praise for The Rhino Keeper
"A historical mystery and a tale of old-world adventure, reminding us that even the wishes we take to our grave may someday come true after all.” ~Sarah Penner, NYT Bestselling Author of The Lost Apothecary

“A charming page turner perfect for animal and history lovers alike.” ~Diana Giovinazzo, author of Antoinette’s Sister 

"A masterful tale of mystery, love, and the magic of discovery.” ~Elizabeth R. Andersen, author of The Alewives

The Boy with the Jade by Charles Bush

A young aristocrat's quest for identity amid love, loss, and betrayal in 18th-century China.

In the opulent world of 18th-century China, where wealth and power reign supreme, Baoyu, heir to the illustrious Jia family, is born with a jade pendant in his mouth—a symbol of his destiny.

Amidst his family's splendor, Baoyu shares a deep, intellectual connection with his cousin, Daiyu, and engages in intense liaisons with Amber, his main maid. But Baoyu's life spirals after a severe beating from his father, Amber's death, Daiyu's illness, and the loss of his jade pendant.

Seeking enlightenment, Baoyu turns to Taoist and Buddhist philosophies, finding guidance from mystical mentors who help him reclaim his jade and hope. But with expectations to excel at the Imperial Examination and continue his lineage, Baoyu craves freedom and makes a bold escape, embarking on a transformative journey.

Drawing inspiration from Hong Lou Meng, Bush's novel weaves a rich narrative of love, grief, and self-discovery, exploring the intricate human quest for meaning, transcending both time and culture.

Praise for The The Boy with the Jade
"A compelling, soap-opera-like portrayal of one of China’s most famous families." ~Terese Tse Bartholomew, Curator Emeritus, Asian Art Museum of San Francisco

"Filled with psychological drama and the vivid splendor of the Qing Dynasty's golden age." ~Larry Feign, author of The Flower Boat Girl

"Reads like a letter from imperial China to our modern era." ~Laurie Dennis, author of The Lacquered Talisman

The Porcelain Menagerie by Jillian Forsberg

In a world where ambition is as fragile as porcelain, two lives are shaped by a king's dangerous obsessions.

In 18th-century Dresden, the dangerous whims of King Augustus the Strong shape the court and the lives of those held captive, both people and animals.

Johann Kändler, a talented young artist, is drawn into the world of King Augustus, whose relentless desire for a lifelike porcelain menagerie could make or break Johann's future. As Johann works to meet the king's impossible demands, he finds unexpected allies in former royal mistress Maria and her daughter Katharina. 

Decades earlier, another story unfolds. Fatima, a Turkish handmaiden, is chosen to replace Augustus's discarded mistress. As she tries to create a menagerie of exotic animals and navigate the intrigues of an unpredictable court, Fatima must learn to survive in a world that values beauty and power above all. 

Two timelines, bound by a king's obsessions...art and survival intertwine in a world where ambition can be as fragile as porcelain.

Praise for The Porcelain Menagerie
"An engrossing, page-turning historical novel which plumbs the depths of possession, resistance and survival." ~Jess Armstrong, USA Today best-selling author of The Curse of Penryth Hall

"A must-read for those interested in thoughtfully exploring issues of the past that still resonate today." Laurie L. Dove, author of USA Today Bestseller Mask of the Deer Woman

"Historical fiction at its most evocative." ~Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Blue

About the Publisher

          

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on new women's fiction and romance from Baker Book House:

• Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher (released May 2025)
• The Sands of Sea Blue Beach by Rachel Hauck (coming July 15)
• Gelato at the Villa by Robin Jones Gunn (coming August 19)

★★★★★ "A wonderful summer read." ~review of Capture the Moment by Mary Ann Hake, author of The Smell of Spring

Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher

A Clean Sweet Summer Romance Novel with a Park Ranger and a Wildlife Photographer in Grand Teton National Park

Kate Cunningham is facing the opportunity of a lifetime. As a zoo photographer, she's spent years photographing animals in carefully controlled environments. But now National Geographic has dangled an irresistible prize: If Kate can snag a unique photo of a legendary bear in Grand Teton National Park, they just might publish it. It's the kind of challenge Kate has been waiting for, and she's eager to prove herself in the wild. 

With more enthusiasm than experience, Kate soon realizes that capturing an image of this bear isn't as simple as she hoped. Fortunately, she crosses paths with Grant Cooper, a seasonal park ranger who knows the terrain—and the bears—better than anyone. His tracking skills could be exactly what Kate needs to succeed, and it doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes. But they're not the only ones with an interest in the park's most famous bear. And his motives are far from innocent.

Praise for Capture the Moment
"Fisher weaves a story of love and healing among the wilderness and beauty of the majestic Grand Tetons." ~Rachel Hauck, New York Times Bestselling Author

"Part mystery, sweet romance, & wildlife adventure, this book kept me quickly turning the pages." ~Melissa's Bookshelf review on Goodreads

The Sands of Sea Blue Beach by Rachel Hauck

A Beach Small Town Contemporary Clean Romance with Family Drama by the author of The Wedding Dress

Emery Quinn finds herself at a crossroads between her career and complex family dynamics. Struggling to connect with her blended family and ready for a fresh start, Emery accepts the position of editor-in-chief at the Sea Blue Beach Gazette. Upon her return to the Sands Motor Motel, she is flooded with bittersweet memories of her late mother and past regrets from a long-ago summer.

Architect Caleb Ransom has returned home to Sea Blue Beach, a place filled with cherished memories and potential opportunities. He means to make a difference for his family and his hometown by caring for his troubled sister's son and preserving the history of the town as the leader of the new Main Street initiative. He certainly never expected to run into Emery Quinn, the girl who captured his heart sixteen summers ago.

As Emery and Caleb revive their friendship, they find themselves facing a bitterly divided town. Together, they navigate family challenges, professional setbacks, and a high-stakes royal visit to discover how forgiveness and love can reshape their hearts and their destiny.

Praise for The Sands of Sea Blue Beach
"Hauck pulls out all the stops in this heartwarming novel of perseverance and family." ~Library Journal starred review

"This book is truly a breath of fresh air, all wrapped within a sweet and swoony love story!" ~Liz Isaacson, USA Today bestselling author

Gelato at the Villa by Robin Jones Gunn

Suitcase Sisters Book #2: Contemporary Women's Fiction Book Set in Italy with Female Friendship, Sisterhood, and International Travel

Grace and Claire have formed a close friendship over their love of reading. After many years and many books that provided armchair adventures, the time has come for them to go somewhere instead of only dreaming of someday.

Traveling to Venice, Florence, and Bellagio, the Suitcase Sisters find themselves immersed in the magnificent works of art, scrumptious gelato flavors, and endless pasta variations of Italy. And they discover a vulnerability to disclose their struggles in ways they never did at home. As Grace experiences a newfound freedom and confidence in who she is, Claire wrestles with painful memories of her teen years.

A special dinner party brings unexpected revelations about faith and God's nearness. Then a life-changing moment on the shores of Lake Lugano causes Grace and Claire to discover they are not just tourists but pilgrims on a path to becoming all God created them to be.

Praise for Gelato at the Villa
"Readers will be swept off their feet by this faith-forward celebration of friendship." ~Amanda Cox, award-winning author of The Edge of Belonging

"Gunn writes characters who will leap off the page and straight into your heart." ~Liz Johnson, best-selling author of Beyond the Tides

      

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the poetry of three authors published by Harbor Lane Books, an indie press that publishes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry:

• Between These Bones by Freya Sharp
• Ashes and Embers by E.V. Nova
• Lilacs and Roses by Cheryl and Christie Leigh Babirad

★★★★★ "Beautiful and meaningful." ~Amazon Review of Between These Bones

Between These Bones: A Collection of Poetry

Between These Bones is a relatable and intimate collection of bite-sized poems that take the reader on a journey with Freya through trauma, the struggles that come with surviving abusive relationships, heartbreak, mental illness, finding oneself, healing, and opening up to new love.

★★★★★ "Raw and emotional." ~Goodreads Review

Ashes and Embers: Poems

Ashes and Embers includes After The Ashes and Reignite The Embers by E.V. Nova. After the Ashes is a collection of poems depicting the emotional journey through the darkness of grief, heartbreak, and betrayal, and into the first glimpse of hope and light that comes with healing. Reignite the Embers is a collection of poems portraying the beautiful, and sometimes confusing, journey of new beginnings. 

Perfect for fans of Kate Baer, Melody Godfred, and Courtney Peppernell.

Lilacs and Roses: A Poetry Collection

This compilation of poems--a collaboration between mother and daughter, Cheryl and Christie Leigh Babirad--unites distinct voices of two generations, unveiling timeless passions and emotions as they delve into the subjects of love, peace, nature, heartbreak, and hope.

Lilacs and Roses also includes mother and daughter interviews with each other as they ask questions that will inspire readers to connect with their loved ones and take notice of the beautiful ties that bind generations.

      

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Wild Series of YA paranormal/adventure novels from author C. Fern Cook: 

• Wild Evolution
• Wild Justice
• Wild Legacy

★★★★★ "A unique werewolf series." ~Amazon Review

Wild Evolution

When Dan defends his livestock against a wild dog attack, he is put in a "kill or be killed" battle. Afterwards, he takes the head of a wild dog in to be tested for rabies—only to discover that he actually has the head of a human male instead of a wild dog.

Now Dan is forced to cover up a self-defense killing because no one would believe he killed a wild dog when he has a human head. A werewolf by contamination, Dan's life spins out of control. All his senses are heightened including his passion for the wild, which compels him to try to stop a new housing development that threatens the local wildlife from loss of habitat. But things don't go according to plans, and now Dan has a second body to dispose of.

Through it all, even though Dan is under investigation for murder, Angela gives Dan her unflinching trust. Because he had an abusive father, Dan has never been able to trust anyone. But now he has someone he wants to start a family with...someone to build a future with. 

Wild Justice

In book #1 of the Wild Series, Colorado rancher Dan Tucker’s life is turned upside-down. After surviving a mutant canine attack, Dan discovers the animal he killed is not a wild dog, but a man. To protect himself even though it was a self-defense killing, he covers up the murder.

Now, with his quiet life as bachelor rancher transformed into a constant battle of wits to keep his deep, dark secret safe, Dan finds himself at odds with everyone, including his girlfriend and his former best friend—and most of all, himself. In book #2 of the Wild Series, Dan struggles to keep his nocturnal life a secret as his wedding gets closer. He soon discovers that’s the least of his worries…

Wild Legacy

In Book III of The Wild Series, Dan Tucker's passion for the wildlife runs through the veins of his offspring--and so does "his curse." Only Dan knows why his child is different from all the other children.

Like every parent, Dan is challenged with teaching his child how to fit into this world. In Dan's case the dilemma is taken up a notch. But like every new soul that arrives on this planet, they must make their own way; no one else can do it for them.

    

Today, LitNuts is shining a light on books from Dollars & Sense Publishing that can help you navigate your financial journey with confidence and clarity:

• Financial Literacy Essentials, 4.9 stars, 124 ratings
• Business Hints for Men and Women, 4.6 stars, 12 ratings
• Dollars and Sense Financial Success Starter Pack, 5.0 stars, 4 ratings

★★★★★ "Comprehensive and engaging." ~Amazon Review

Financial Literacy Essentials

A Dollars and Sense Guide for Young Adults

Financial education is overlooked in schools, leaving many unprepared for the realities of adulthood, including managing money, earning an income, and paying bills.

When you’re struggling to pay your monthly bills, confused about how to build credit, or unsure where and when to start investing, it’s easy to feel lost. Financial Literacy Essentials is your ultimate companion for building a solid financial foundation. Inside this guide, you'll discover how to:

• Master the Art of Budgeting
• Find that First Job or Be Your Own Boss
• Build Strong Financial Habits
• Understand Credit and Loans
• Invest with Confidence
• Plan for Emergencies
• Pay for College
• Avoid Financial Pitfalls
• Spend Wisely
• Gain Financial Independence and Confidence
• And more

Praise for Financial Literacy Essentials
★★★★★ "Fantastic book for developing financial literacy and important life skills." ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "Enriching and thorough." ~Goodreads Review

★★★★★ " A comprehensive resource for building financial confidence." ~Amazon Review

Business Hints for Men and Women

A Dollars and Sense Adaptation of Timeless and Common Sense Business Lessons

Whether you're launching your first venture, managing a small business, or striving for financial clarity, Business Hints for Men and Women is your ultimate guide. First published in 1910, A.R. Calhoun’s classic book offered simple yet powerful strategies to help individuals succeed in business and finance. Calhoun, a respected journalist and advocate for clear, practical advice, understood the challenges faced by small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals of his time. His work provided readers with essential tools for success, offering straightforward guidance on managing money, understanding contracts, and building financial security. Now, this groundbreaking work has been fully updated for the 21st century.

Here’s just a taste of what you’ll get access to in this modern adaptation:

• Essential Documents Decoded
• Mastering Money Management
• Secrets to Effective Communication
• Smart Banking and Investments
• Insurance Insights That Matter 
• Timeless Principles for Success
• Adapt to an Evolving Business Landscape
• Achieve Long-Term Stability and Growth 

Praise for Business Hints for Men and Women
★★★★★ "Timeless business advice, updated for modern success." ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "Practical advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners." ~Amazon Review

Dollars and Sense Financial Success Starter Pack

Your First Step to Smart Money Management, Saving, and Building Financial Security

This Financial Success Starter Pack is filled with insightful infographics and helpful tips. Inside, you’ll discover practical advice and tips on money management beginner fundamentals, including budgeting, cutting down on expenses, and saving, all designed to simplify and jump start your financial journey.

Included are infographics that break down complex concepts into actionable steps, and tips that provide quick, useful strategies you can apply right away to improve your financial well-being today.

Praise for Dollars and Sense Financial Success Starter Pack
★★★★★ "A small book packed with everything you need." ~Amazon Review

      

Looking for a couple of fun reads for FREE? The Pharaoh's Cat Novels from author Maria Luisa Lang fit the bill...two works of humorous historical fantasy/fiction that are currently available as free downloads!

• The Pharaoh's Cat, Book 1 in 4.4 stars, 255 ratings
• The Eye of Nefertiti, 4.3 stars, 152 ratings

"A wealth of rich history here, brought to life by a talented storyteller." ~Don Sloan, justfreeandbargainbooks

The Pharaoh's Cat

Suddenly talking and walking upright, a stray tomcat in ancient Egypt becomes the young Pharaoh's intimate and, when accused of his murder, time travels to New York City and learns how to raise Pharoah from the dead.

The cat is a quick-witted, wisecracking narrator as well as a free-spirited, ever-curious protagonist, and the story he tells is an exotic, imaginative, spell-binding tragicomedy. The novel interweaves feline and human, past and present, natural and supernatural. It contains numerous surprises, twists and turns, intriguing characters, both human and animal, fascinating revelations about ancient Egyptian history and culture.

Praise for The Pharaoh's Cat
"Witty, clever and easy to read." ~Susan Barton, eBook Review Gal

"A fun book and a new take on historical fiction." ~Teresa A.Wilson, terriluvsbooks

"Great for long-time fans of cats or for readers looking for a good and fun read." ~Joss Radillo, Koko's Book Blog

The Eye of Nefertiti

Now a New Yorker, the Pharaoh’s cat travels back in time to free Egypt’s legendary Queen Nefertiti from a horrific curse, discovering firsthand why her mummy has never been found and her famous bust is missing one eye.

Added to all this is an ingenious use of the Tarot and Italian opera, making for a fabulous story that will transport readers to different locations in the past and present.

Praise for The Eye of Nefertiti
"Well-written historical fiction." ~Wendy Scott, Multi-Award Winning Author

"Highly recommended." ~Charity Rowell-Stansbury, On My Kindle Book Reviews

"Oozes with charm...a nice blend of everything from mystery, adventure, and even a touch of romance." ~Socrates Book Review