“The Tiny Crown,” by Susan Barnett Braun

Posted on March 19, 2025 by Becky

It Could Happen to You!

Lucinda, a teenager, is unhappy with her life, especially with school, and the attention she gets from boys.  She is sure being in England, in the land of royals, would solve everything.  Out of the blue, she and her family get a chance to go there.

While out touring, Lucinda somehow crosses into another time.  She not only finds herself in a castle, she soon finds herself romantically involved with a royal.  She gets to stay in the castle, and attends balls while wearing beautiful clothing. Finally, she has everything she always hoped for.  But some of it is not what she had imagined.

She misses her old life, but since she doesn’t know how she got there, is there any way to get back?

Stay with Lucinda to see if dreams really do come true.

This is a great story with different twists and turns that will keep you guessing how things will turn out.  It is a clean, five-star tale that I recommend for fans of royals, or well-written stories.

Thanks to the author for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “The Tiny Crown,” by Susan Barnett Braun, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/susanbarnettbraun/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/girlsinwhitedressesblog/

The Author’s Website:  https://girlsinwhitedresses.wordpress.com/about/

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“This Sheep Needs Your Help,” by David LaRochelle

Posted on March 18, 2025 by Becky

Save the Day!

Only the reader can help this sheep.  He really needs it because so many things happen to him.  For instance, he needs help getting across the water, he isn’t dressed right for the weather, and he is chased, more than once, by something that could hurt him.

This interactive book allows you to help in all the situations.  The author has written many books, often tongue-in-cheek, and this is no exception.  This cute tale will have little ones wanting to use it, and it will keep them entertained. A special dry-erase marker is included that will make the magic happen, and it cleans up easily with a damp paper towel.  The oversized-board book has lots of bright colors that will catch your child’s eye.

Let the creativity begin!

I highly recommend this fun, five-star book.  It is very entertaining, and children three to seven-years-old will enjoy it.

Thanks to Candlewick Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “This Sheep Needs Your Help,” by David LaRochelle, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Piggy Paint Pens

Posted on March 17, 2025 by Becky

Fingers and Toes!

Here is a new product we recently tried; they are paint pens by the makers of Piggy Paint.  This is a company that gears their things towards children, and tries to make their product the safest polish.  They are all cruelty-free, vegan, and gluten-free.

These paint pens are great.  We had five colors:  green, pink, red, purple, and blue.  To begin with, the pens need to be activated.  It is easy to do, and doesn’t take long, and after that, they are good to go.

They can be used to decorate already polished nails, or used to cover nails instead of traditional nail polish.  The pens are not “drippy” so it is easy to make designs without polish glopping, plus it dries fast.

I am thrilled there is no smell, and I would not have a problem using it on a child.  My  suggestion is that they make more colors, especially white and black ones.

Although geared toward children, adults can use them, too.  I recommend children use these with adult supervision.  I have many sensitivities, and cannot use regular nail polish, but am happy to say I can use Piggy Paint.

I give these five-stars and recommend them.

Thank you, Piggy Paint, for providing Tickmenot with Piggy Paint Pens to review. Opinions are my own.

Posted in Product Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Phantom of the Organ: And Other Mysteries of St. Matthews,” by Susan Barnett Braun

Posted on March 15, 2025 by Becky

The Curious Happenings at St. Matthews!

Melody plays the organ for St. Matthews, a small church in a little town.  Although she is in a compact community, many questionable things happen.  They keep Melody on her toes as she tries to get to the bottom of them all.

For instance, there are strange noises that occur when Melody is in the church alone, so she attempts to discover the source.

She also throws herself into the hunt for the church bequest a deceased member hid in the church.  It has been searched for before and never found, but the church is in dire need of money, and anything that could be found would help.

Right after they put a beautiful baby Jesus in the Christmas display, it is taken.  Melody hopes to discover who would do something like that.  She is busy with all that more.

The church is made up of endearing people, along with some characters.  There are even stories of their widowed pastor, and what happens when he tries to re-enter the dating field.

This is a fun five-star book.  It is a clean read that will often bring a smile to your face, while glued to the pages to find out more.  There is a nice twist towards the end of the tale, and I highly recommend it.  My only wish is that there would be more stories about this delightful place! This will be enjoyed by those who like well-written stories, mysteries, or small-town life.

Thanks to Susan Barnett Braun, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “The Phantom of the Organ: And Other Mysteries of St. Matthews,” by Susan Braun, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/susanbarnettbraun/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/girlsinwhitedressesblog/

The Author’s Website:  https://girlsinwhitedresses.wordpress.com/about/

 

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Peacemaker,” by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Posted on March 10, 2025 by Becky

What to Believe

Ada, a young Amish woman, always felt like she played second fiddle in life. When her best friend, Rosa, caught the eye of Ephraim, Ada secretly wished Ephraim had liked her instead.

Long after the two became an item, Rosa disappeared after a huge fight with Ephraim. Many people witnessed the blow up, and there were rumors that Ephraim did something to her. It has been disproved, but many still think he is guilty.mifflin county mysteries amish fiction wanda brunstetter christian

Ephraim is now back home after spending several months away helping his grandmother. He has started spending time with Ada, but is he sincere, or is he trying to squelch the rumors about him, and using Ada as a distraction. After all, Ada has never felt worthy of his love.

There are interesting side stories, too. First, Ephraim’s grandmother, Sarah, and the friendship she has formed with Josiah. Then there is Susan, Rosa’s sister, who is in love with Amish bad boy, Ben. Next, the mysterious barn burnings that have never been solved.mifflin county mysteries amish fiction wanda brunstetter christian

This is a great book because of all the things that come about with Ada, the side stories, and the on-going mystery of what happened to Rosa. You will be glued to this tale, wanting to know what takes place next.

Although part of a series, this clean story stands on its own. If you are a fan of well-written stories, Amish tales, or mysteries, you will enjoy this five-star book. I recommend it.

Thank you, Barbour Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “The Peacemaker,” by Wanda E. Brunstetter, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

Wanda E. Brunstetter

Amish Country’s Most Beloved Storyteller

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda’s stories consistently earn spots on the nation’s most prestigious bestseller lists and receive numerous awards.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and family ties. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

amish country christian clean fiction author brunstetter

Wanda E. Brunstetter’s Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/wanda.brunstetter/

Wanda E. Brunstetter Twitter’s:  https://x.com/WBrunstetter

Wanda E. Brunstetter’s Website:  https://wandabrunstetter.com/

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“This Pirate Needs Your Help,” by David LaRochelle

Posted on March 8, 2025 by WordPress.com Support

Yo Ho Ho!

Ahoy there mateys!  This pirate needs help while sailing the seven seas.  This interactive board book comes with a special dry-erase marker.  It is used to draw the different things the pirate asks for, including finding a way through danger.

ocean books; summer books; beach books for kids; art books for kids; creative books for kids

This cute board book is over-sized, has a good story, and will keep little ones entertained for a long time.  When done with a drawing, simply wipe off with a damp paper towel.  Children’s imaginations will soar while creating different pictures.

I highly recommend this fun, five-star book.  It is very entertaining, and children three to seven-years-old will enjoy it.  Arrrgh, make sure you get a copy!

Thank you, Candlewick Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “This Pirate Needs Your Help,” by David LaRochelle, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Sabotage at Cedar Creek,” by Janice Thompson

Posted on February 25, 2025 by WordPress.com Support

Success or Ruin!

RaeLyn’s best friend, Tasha, is opening a vacation home. She has invested all her time and money into getting it off the ground. But now all kinds of things are happening to stop it, including the outside of the house vandalized with spray paint. If it isn’t stopped Tasha will lose everything, but who is behind it?

There are many suspects. First, Clayton Henderson, the richest man around. He wants to open vacations rentals, and doesn’t like competition.

Then, Belinda Keller, a relative of the man she bought the house from, claims she is the rightful owner. She has made threatening visits to Tasha, in between trying to get Tasha and Raelyn’s sympathy–and it might be working.

red truck mystery christian clean romance fiction reading country small town

Next, there is her neighbor, Bob Reeves, who always seems to have a chip on his shoulder. He has started a petition to stop her from having a vacation rental.

There is a very interesting side story about RaeLyn’s aunt, and her high school sweetheart from decades earlier. At the same time, Tasha has guys fluttering around her like bees after honey, but she is unaware of it.

red truck mystery christian clean romance fiction reading country small town

While trying to find answers, RaeLyn and Tasha make some wrong turns but don’t give up. This is a serious mystery although there are also humorous situations that take place.

This five-star whodunit, will keep you turning the pages to try to figure out the culprit. This is full of Texas charm, faith, and southern cooking. A bonus are the recipes included in the back of the book. This is part of a series, but this tale stands alone. I highly recommend this charming book to fans of well-written, clean stories, and mysteries!

red truck mystery christian clean romance fiction reading country small town

Thank you, Barbour Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Sabotage at Cedar Creek,” by Janice Thompson for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/JaniceHannaThompson/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/booksbyjanice

The Author’s Website:  https://janiceathompson.com

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“I See Me,” by Sam McBratney

Posted on February 16, 2025 by WordPress.com Support

Illustrated by Anita Jeram

What Do You See?

Two bunnies, Little Nutbrown Hare, and Big Nutbrown Hare, set out on an adventure.  They find many things including a butterfly, a bird in a nest, and a tadpole.  But the best thing they find is their reflection in the pond.

Little ones will like the adventure in this story, and the experience of getting to see their own reflection in the mirror in this over-sized board book.

The sweet illustrations will appeal to little ones in this tale of discovery, along with the thick pages that easily fit in their hands. Best of all, the mirror is large, and fun to look at. This is a classic story children will love.

Ages through four-years-old will enjoy this five-star book.

Thank you, Candlewick Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “I See Me,” by Sam McBratney,” for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

 

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Follow Your Heart,” by Emma Dodd

Posted on February 14, 2025 by WordPress.com Support

Exploring!

“Every day is a new start.” Those were the words spoken by a mother to her young dolphin.  The child is learning those words are true. There are so many things to choose to do in life, explore new places, join a group of other dolphins, or try something else entirely.

The author is also the illustrator, and this beautiful book is full of illustrations that have been highlighted with silver.  That really brings the pictures to life, making the ocean and stars sparkle!  Little ones will like the effects it makes.

As children get older, they will discover new things all around them. This book encourages them to face them bravely, and it can be fun to try things out. But they can return to their mother’s side if they feel uncomfortable. They learn this all through glittering pages that are filled with fun rhyming verse, and love.

Children aged three through six-years-old will enjoy this great five-star book. After reading this, go out and explore!

Thank you, Candlewick Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Follow Your Heart,” by Emma Dodd, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Anne Dares,” adapted by Kallie George

Posted on January 15, 2025 by WordPress.com Support

Pictures by Abigail Halfin

If You Dare!

Ann is a red-haired, happy girl, full of energy, who sometimes says and does things before thinking about the consequences.  Because of that, she can get herself into quite a pickle.

While Anne and her friend Diana are at a party, another guest, Josie, begins daring others to do things.  Anne is incensed by the way Josie treats others.  Before she knows it, Anne has taken a dare to do something she has never done, and it is dangerous.  The outcome is not what she expected.

Later, Anne wants to be part of the Christmas concert, but does not know if she dares to do it.  While Anne celebrates Christmas at home, she gets an unbelievable surprise, making it a day she will always remember.

This early reader chapter book has all the charm of the books written by Lucy Maud Montgomery.  This adaptation was done by Kallie George and is a sweet story that seamlessly fits in with the Anne of Green Gable books.

The colorful pictures by Abigail Halfin also add to the tale.  It is fun reading about other adventures Anne may have had.  In addition to this being a great story, there is a good underlying message.

Anne is a spunky girl that everyone would like for a friend. I highly recommend this five-star book. Ages six- to nine-year-olds will enjoy this story.

Thank you, Tundra Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Anne Dares,” adapted by Kallie George for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment