June 6, 2025

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On Tour: War at the Ice Cream Store: Mustachio Pistachio vs Bully Vanilli—Collector's Edition

Book Title: War at the Ice Cream Store: Mustachio Pistachio vs Bully Vanilli—Collector's Edition
Author: Cheryl DaVeiga
Publisher: Waterhole Productions LLC
Publisher Date: 2025-May (40 Pages, Paperback)
Genres: Children, Picture Book, 
Series: Frank TL Frogg and Friends
New Collector's Edition—Reillustrated with enhanced story and bonus content.

​In the Frozen Frogg Ice Cream Store, Bully Vanilli is the most popular ice cream and self-proclaimed king of the flavors. Lonely Mustachio sits at the back of the freezer. No one ever picks him. Every night, after the store door is locked, Bully Vanilli begins his bullying and Mustachio is his favorite target. One night, Vully kicks Mustachio's bucket. Poor Mustachio falls SPLAT on the floor, and it's... War at the Ice Cream Store! (And there's a song!)
Disclaimer: I received a free Copy from IRead BookTours for an honest review and Book Tour

Want To Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bam | Bookbub |
Add To: Goodreads
I enjoyed this book. It was done well. I love the take on the uniqueness of names for each flavor. Bully Vanilli is a good one for the vanilla flavor. Mustachio Pistachio is clever, and I like that. Though his name is a bit hard to pronounce, that may be it for me to do. Otherwise, I did enjoy the naming concept.

I also really enjoyed each page. I like that there is a lesson that Bully Vanilli needs to learn about a few things. I like the way the author is teaching children about kindness and bullying through something sweet and tasty that children like. 

This is a fun and wonderfully illustrated book. Children learn, and what a wonderful way to use ice cream. The pictures can tell the story of what is going on as well, which makes it even better.


 Prize: Author-signed WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 1 (collectors edition) and WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 plus WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE Activity Book for Book 1 and coloring pages for Book 2 (one winner) (USA and Canada) (ends June 20)

 
Cheryl DaVeiga is an award-winning songwriter and children's book author who loves to combine humor, rhyme, and wordplay to create stories and songs that bring on the giggles. You can find her books and animated sing-along song videos on her website for kids and kid-lovers—BiffBamBooza.com. Biff Bam Booza books have received numerous awards and high acclaim, including Mom's Choice Gold, Purple Dragonfly, Eric Hoffer, and Literary Titan book awards, Readers' Favorite 5-star ratings, and Kirkus Review Magazine features. Cheryl lives in Tucson, Arizona, and spends her summers in her native New Jersey.

Connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ X ~ bookbub ~ goodreads

Tour Schedule:
May 18 - @onceuponafrida * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 1 / giveaway
May 19 - Cover Lover Book Review - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / guest post / giveaway
May 19 - Working Mommy Journal - book series spotlight
May 19 - @acourtofspinesnpages * - book review of WAR OF THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 20 - Library Lady's Kid Lit - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 20 - Library Lady's Kid Lit - books spotlight / author interview / giveaway
May 20 - Cover Lover Book Review - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
May 20 - @speedreadstagram * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 21 - @Pagesforpaige * - book reviews of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 & WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
May 21 - Library Lady's Kid Lit - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
May 21 - Locks, Hooks and books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 22 - @nissa_the.bookworm * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 22 - A Mama's Corner of the World - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 23 - Locks, Hooks and Books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
May 23 - @therearenobadbooks * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 27 - @ThisReadingNurse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview
May 27 - Sandra's Book Club - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
May 28 - Gina Rae Mitchell - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / guest post / giveaway
May 28 - Nighttime Reading Center - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 28 - @reader_ceygo * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 29 - @ThisReadingNurse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
May 29 - @jilljemmett * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 30 - Faith and Books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 2 - Liese's Blog - book series spotlight
June 2 - Cheryl's Book Nook - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 3 - Bigreadersite - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 3 - Books With a Chance - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview / giveaway
June 3 - @lizzies.reading.recs * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 4 - Bigreadersite - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 4 - Books With a Chance - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 4 - Cheryl's Book Nook - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 4 - Deal Sharing Aunt - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview / giveaway
June 5 - Deal Sharing Aunt - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 5 - @Leannebookstagram - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
June 6 - Faith and Books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 6 - Nighttime Reading Center - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 6 - @Leannebookstagram - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
June 9 - Happily Managing a Household of Boys - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
June 9 - Country Mamas With Kids - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 10 - Country Mamas With Kids - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview / giveaway
June 10 - Frugal Freelancer - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / guest post / giveaway
June 10 - @survivalofthesahm * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 11 - Frugal Freelancer - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 11 - Kim's Book Reviews and Writing Aha's - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 12 - 0storyverse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
June 12 - Kim's Book Reviews and Writing Aha's - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 12 - @thebookishren * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 13 - 0storyverse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
June 13 - Paws.Read.Repeat - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 13 - @lenatheotaku * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 13 - @this.human.reads * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
 

Please read my NRC Policies Page

June 3, 2025

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Book Review: Letters to God

Book Title: Letters to God
Author: CM Harris
Publisher: Purple Diamond Press, Inc
Publisher Date: 2025-May-20 (34 Pages, Paperback)
Genres: Children, Picture Book, 
Series: Heavenly Messages Collection (#2)
Letters to God is a heartfelt and beautifully illustrated book that invites children to explore their emotions, express gratitude, and share their dreams through the power of writing letters to God. This touching story inspires faith, hope, and connection, encouraging children to see the beauty in everyday moments.
Disclaimer: I received a free Copy from LibraryThing Early Readers for an honest review

Want To Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bam | Bookbub |
Add To: Goodreads
I like this children's book. Its style is different and enjoyable. It has letters written by children, and it reads in that kind of way. Children are asking about some other things. They are all mean as you turn a page in the book. A different child writes a new letter. They could be thanking God for something, writing to help heal a loved one, or telling God how they feel. Each one is different. On the other page is a scripture or quote from the bible that goes along with it.

The pictures are well done. I would say that each page showcases a different family. They are all different in many different ways, from a mommy and a sibling to a family of a few to more than one of two.

This book is a quick and easy read. But it teaches children about kindness, love, and how talking to God is okay—doing so anywhere or any place or writing your prayer down is also fine. God will listen or hear any forms of payers even if they are written and sent to him that way.


Please read my NRC Policies Page


June 2, 2025

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Chance to Win a Copy of Amish Friends Farm-To-Table Cookbook by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Book Title: Amish Friends Farm-To-Table Cookbook
Author: Wanda E. Brunstetter
Genres: Amish, Amish Fiction, Cookbook,
Series:
Publisher: Barbour Books
Publisher Date: May 2023 (224 Pages, Paperback)
Bring Home the Fresh Taste of the Local Countryside
If you believe in sourcing food as close to home as possible while supporting small family farms, you’ll love this cookbook with contributions from Amish and Mennonite cooks. This new collection of recipes from New York Times bestselling author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter, celebrates sourcing fresh meat and produce from farms in your own local area. Sprinkled with tips for growing, harvesting, and preserving, the cookbook is divided into traditional categories from main dishes and sides to desserts and snacks. Encased in a lay-flat binding and presented in full color, it is a must-have cookbook for anyone who is interested in where their food comes from, participates in a CSA, or enjoys farmers’ markets.
Disclaimer: I received permission to talk about this cookbook from the publisher for an honest spotlight and from a book club I am in to spread the word about the book. My opinions of this book are my own.
 


Here is what the book will look like when you get it. I got many different recipes. There are many to choose from. I have made a recipe that is included in this cookbook. The recipe is called Melt in Your Mouth Roast, and I really enjoyed it. I have used and tried many of Wanda's other Cookbooks. I can say they all come mad this way. This one I would love to try. Here is a link to the result of my Cooking Challenge and Facebook post shared through Instagram.




Some of the scriptures in the book are inspiring and enjoyable to read. I know we have used a few of the other cookbooks I have received. Some of the recipes have been made for different holidays and get-togethers. I believe Mom even created some recipes for other events as well.




The images are credited to the publisher Barbour Books. I really believe the these cookbooks are great to have and are a wonderful gift of any cook. The pricing is not bad either.

Want to Buy: Amazon
Add To: Goodreads
Check out here the many other Books here: Wanda Books and Cookbooks
 

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.







Want a Chance to win a copy of this Cookbook? Comment below with what you make or do with this cookbook, and I will choose a winner on June 16, 2025. If you are chosen, I will email you for your mailing address and name. Please at least leave your email and answer to the question in the comment section. I will accept Disqus Comments or Blogger Comments.. However, Anonymous and Unknown will be removed from the giveaway, as I do not know who you are in the comment.

Please read my NRC Policies Page

May 28, 2025

By  1 comment Edit This

On Tour: War at the Ice Cream Store 2: Rocky Road vs The Sundae Storm With Giveaway

Book Title: War at the Ice Cream Store 2: Rocky Road vs The Sundae Storm
Author: Cheryl DaVeiga
Publisher: Waterhole Productions LLC
Publisher Date: 2025-May-6 (40 Pages, Paperback)
Genres: Children, Picture Book, 
Series: Frank TL Frogg and Friends
The sequel to the award-winning War at the Ice Cream Store: Bully Vanilli vs Mustachio Pistachio

It’s a perfect Sunny Sunday in July—The ultimate ice cream day! But wait… uh oh… Trouble is brewing down at the Frozen Frogg Ice Cream Store! A swirly, twirly, category five twister is out of control!!

Could this be the first summer Sunday EVER without ice cream? (Say it isn’t so!) Or can the flavors and toppings whip up a plan before it’s too late?.
Disclaimer: I received a free Copy from IRead BookTours for an honest review and Book Tour

Want To Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bam | Bookbub |
Add To: Goodreads
This book is similar to the first book. We meet a few more new characters. One is Sheriff Mults, I believe. We are also introduced to Allen Halfgallon. This book gets more fun. It is funny and lovable. I just loved the characters and their personalities. I also like the wordplay. It is like reading the words in a song.

I like how they try to help and come up with an idea together to save the day. Vanilli Nice calls for help and then tells them about the war emergency at the ice cream store. Will they be able to save the day? Or will the Sundae Storm win out?

We are then introduced to Rocky Road. Will he be able to save the day? Will the frozen treats be able to save the day, and or will the shop be closed on a perfect summer day?

The story can be told by just looking at the pictures. The pictures are colorful and enjoyable to look at. I enjoy the way the story plays out. Will they rally together to save the historical day, or will they not? I like Newman telling the story through his eyes like on the news in weather report style. We also see it through the ice cream flavor point of view.


 Prize: Author-signed WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 1 (collectors edition) and WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 plus WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE Activity Book for Book 1 and coloring pages for Book 2 (one winner) (USA and Canada) (ends June 20)

 
Cheryl DaVeiga is an award-winning songwriter and children's book author who loves to combine humor, rhyme, and wordplay to create stories and songs that bring on the giggles. You can find her books and animated sing-along song videos on her website for kids and kid-lovers—BiffBamBooza.com. Biff Bam Booza books have received numerous awards and high acclaim, including Mom's Choice Gold, Purple Dragonfly, Eric Hoffer, and Literary Titan book awards, Readers' Favorite 5-star ratings, and Kirkus Review Magazine features. Cheryl lives in Tucson, Arizona, and spends her summers in her native New Jersey.

Connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ X ~ bookbub ~ goodreads

Tour Schedule:
May 18 - @onceuponafrida * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 1 / giveaway
May 19 - Cover Lover Book Review - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / guest post / giveaway
May 19 - Working Mommy Journal - book series spotlight
May 19 - @acourtofspinesnpages * - book review of WAR OF THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 20 - Library Lady's Kid Lit - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 20 - Library Lady's Kid Lit - books spotlight / author interview / giveaway
May 20 - Cover Lover Book Review - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
May 20 - @speedreadstagram * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 21 - @Pagesforpaige * - book reviews of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 & WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
May 21 - Library Lady's Kid Lit - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
May 21 - Locks, Hooks and books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 22 - @nissa_the.bookworm * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 22 - A Mama's Corner of the World - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 23 - Locks, Hooks and Books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
May 23 - @therearenobadbooks * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 27 - @ThisReadingNurse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview
May 27 - Sandra's Book Club - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
May 28 - Gina Rae Mitchell - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / guest post / giveaway
May 28 - Nighttime Reading Center - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 28 - @reader_ceygo * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 29 - @ThisReadingNurse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
May 29 - @jilljemmett * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
May 30 - Faith and Books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 2 - Liese's Blog - book series spotlight
June 2 - Cheryl's Book Nook - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 3 - Bigreadersite - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 3 - Books With a Chance - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview / giveaway
June 3 - @lizzies.reading.recs * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 4 - Bigreadersite - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 4 - Books With a Chance - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 4 - Cheryl's Book Nook - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 4 - Deal Sharing Aunt - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview / giveaway
June 5 - Deal Sharing Aunt - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 5 - @Leannebookstagram - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
June 6 - Faith and Books - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 6 - Nighttime Reading Center - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 6 - @Leannebookstagram - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
June 9 - Happily Managing a Household of Boys - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
June 9 - Country Mamas With Kids - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 10 - Country Mamas With Kids - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / author interview / giveaway
June 10 - Frugal Freelancer - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / guest post / giveaway
June 10 - @survivalofthesahm * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 11 - Frugal Freelancer - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 11 - Kim's Book Reviews and Writing Aha's - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 12 - 0storyverse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
June 12 - Kim's Book Reviews and Writing Aha's - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE / giveaway
June 12 - @thebookishren * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 13 - 0storyverse - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
June 13 - Paws.Read.Repeat - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 13 - @lenatheotaku * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2 / giveaway
June 13 - @this.human.reads * - book review of WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE 2
 
Please read my NRC Policies Page

May 27, 2025

By  No comments Edit This

Book Spotlight: Wanda E. Brunstetter's Amish Friends Farm-To-Table Cookbook

Book Title: Amish Friends Farm-To-Table Cookbook
Author: Wanda E. Brunstetter
Genres: Amish, Amish Fiction, Cookbook,
Series:
Publisher: Barbour Books
Publisher Date: May 2023 (224 Pages, Paperback)
Bring Home the Fresh Taste of the Local Countryside
If you believe in sourcing food as close to home as possible while supporting small family farms, you’ll love this cookbook with contributions from Amish and Mennonite cooks. This new collection of recipes from New York Times bestselling author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter, celebrates sourcing fresh meat and produce from farms in your own local area. Sprinkled with tips for growing, harvesting, and preserving, the cookbook is divided into traditional categories from main dishes and sides to desserts and snacks. Encased in a lay-flat binding and presented in full color, it is a must-have cookbook for anyone who is interested in where their food comes from, participates in a CSA, or enjoys farmers’ markets.
Disclaimer: I received permission to talk about this cookbook from the publisher for an honest spotlight and from a book club I am in to spread the word about the book. My opinions of this book are my own.
 


Here is what the book will look like when you get it. I got many different recipes. There are many to choose from. I have made a recipe that is included in this cookbook. The recipe is called Melt in Your Mouth Roast, and I really enjoyed it. I have used and tried many of Wanda's other Cookbooks. I can say they all come mad this way. This one I would love to try. Here is a link to the result of my Cooking Challenge and Facebook post shared through Instagram.




Some of the scriptures in the book are inspiring and enjoyable to read. I know we have used a few of the other cookbooks I have received. Some of the recipes have been made for different holidays and get together. I believe mom as even created some recipes for other events as well.




The images are credited to the publisher Barbour Books. I really believe the these cookbooks are great to have and are a wonderful gift of any cook. The pricing is not bad either.

Want to Buy: Amazon
Add To: Goodreads
Check out here the many other Books here: Wanda Books and Cookbooks
 

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.







Check out my Recommendation Page
Please read my NRC Policies Page
By  No comments Edit This

Author Interview: Wanda E. Brunstetter (May 19, 2025)

Let us welcome our latest and newest member to our list of authors. Let's welcome Wanda Brunstetter to the Nighttime Reading Center again. She is here to spread her latest book, "The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits," written with Martha Bolton, and also for an Author Spotlight. I am a member of  Wanda's Clippity Clop Club.

I have a chance to read her book "The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie's Biscuits." I am currently reading this book, and I am just starting, so I am not far in. This book is being adapted into a Musical play and will be playing in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in the Bird In Hand area during April 2025 and in Indiana in July 2025. Here is the Information for details and tickets.Let's read her Bio and then go to her interview. #Interviews, #Interviewsaroundtheglobe, #NRC,

 


Why Are Baking Contestants Disappearing?

Mysteries have a way of following Fannie Miller, so when she makes it into the finals of the Tuscarawas County Baking Contest and contestants start disappearing, she calls on her old friend Foster Bates, a retired cop and part-time private investigator. Could it be that other finalists—like the couple on verge of divorce who need the prize money. . .or the three Beiler sisters, always in a huddle whispering—are somehow responsible for these disappearances, thinning out the competition? One thing is certain—Foster and Fannie will stay on the case until the end, and everyone involved will learn something important about baking contests, mystery solving, and life.

New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter and Emmy-Nominated Author Martha Bolton have teamed up to deliver a delightful whodunit from Ohio's Amish country.






How did your trip to Pennsylvania with Martha Bolton go? What did you enjoy about seeing the Miss Fannie’s musical?

The trip went well. Martha and I had a great time greeting readers, signing books, and getting caught up with each other’s lives. We enjoyed the musical, which Martha wrote the script for. She also wrote the lyrics for all of the wonderful songs.
 
Did you get to see any family or Amish friends while you were there?

We spoke with some Amish ladies who know one of our Amish friends. We also spent some time with several members of my husband’s family who live in the area.

How do the Amish celebrate Easter? Have you ever been to any Amish holiday celebrations?
 
They attend church on Easter Sunday and fellowship with family in the afternoon. We have not attended church with our Amish friends on Easter, but we did get in on an egg hunt that took place the day before Easter at one of our Amish friend’s homes. It was a lot of fun watching the little ones hunt for eggs.
 
Your new cookbook, Amish Friends Farm-To-Table Cookbook, seems to be great for farmers’ markets, CSAs, or any farm-to-table organizations or events. Do you have farmers’ markets or local farmers you deal with at home for your produce and food?
 
Yes, we do have a local Farmers’ Market and many smaller places that sell local produce in our area.
 
Do you enjoy writing mysteries or non-mysteries more, and why? ~Keren Lyles
 
I enjoy writing both mysteries and non-mystery novels, which is why I don’t stick to just one. It’s always fun to do something different.
 
Are there any future plans to turn the "Mifflin county mystery series" into a musical as well? Or any of the other book series from the past? ~Erin Rivera, Sandi Angelo

I really don’t know because the decision to turn one of my books into a musical play is up to the producer.
 
What has been your favorite series? ~Lori Hart

I think they all are my favorite when I’m in the midst of writing them, but I suppose if I had to choose just one, it might be The Daughters of Lancaster County series, where an Amish child is kidnapped.
   
What has been your favorite book? ~Sarah Storm

The Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club is one of my favorites. It was fun to write about so many different characters, who all had some sort of problem they were dealing with. What made it even more enjoyable was the sweet Amish woman who not only taught them all how to quilt, but gave each person some sound advice.

Will there be more mystery series in the future? ~Diane Krug

I am not currently plotting one, but there’s a good chance that I will write another mystery novel sometime in the future.

Do you ever try any of the recipes in your cookbooks before they are published? ~Jackie Tessnair

Yes, I have tried several in advance of them being published, and of course, I have tried many after the cookbooks are published.

What kind of books do you like to read and who’s your favorite author? ~Lisa Edwards

I enjoy reading historical fiction novel, like those written by Janette Oke and Tracie Peterson. They both are high on my “favorite author” list.

Do you think you’d come to upstate New York for a book signing some day? ~Tammy Layton

I was in upstate New York many years ago for a signing. Perhaps someday I can come back.

Any more devotionals planned, or cookbooks? Maybe a coloring book? ~Sherri Myers, Ashley Marquardt

There are no plans at this point for another cookbook or devotional, but it might happen someday.

Any plans on writing an Amish cozy mystery (like Amanda Flower's An Amish Candy Shop series)? ~Kristina Anderson

There are no plans for one at this time, but I am not opposed to the idea.

Do you plan on co-writing any more books with Martha Bolton? Also, since Martha writes a lot of the musicals for the Blue Gate Theatre, I was wondering if she is working on any more musicals from any of your other book series? I understand, if you can’t answer! I personally would LOVE to see the Prayer Jar Series become a musical! I love seeing your books come to life in a musical. I have seen all of your musicals at the Blue Gate and am looking forward to seeing you and Martha at the opening day musical in Shipshewana!! ~Janet Nush

We have talked about it, but we’re both currently quite busy with other projects, so time will tell if we can put our heads together for another co-authored book together. At this point, I don’t know what plans Blue Gate Musicals have made for upcoming plays.

What does/did Easter look like at the Brunstetter home? ~Nyla Wilkerson

We always attend church on Easter Sunday, and often go out for a meal afterwards with family members, which is what we did this year.

Do you like your new hairstyle? Because I love it. ~Vicky Sluiter

Yes, I do like my new hairstyle, because it’s easy to care for.

When do you plan on returning to Lancaster? My daughter lives in Quarryville. Do you know that area? ~Sandi Angelo

There are no set plans as to when we might return to Lancaster. We always enjoy going there, and the fact that we have family members living near Lancaster is always a drawing card.

Will you write more stories including ventriloquists? Like "Clowning Around" and "Talking for Two"? ~Keren Lyles

Probably not, but I never really know for sure what I’m going to write until I do.

When will you come to Virginia for a book signing? I would love to meet you. ~Sarah Arnold

I have no current plans to visit Virginia, but I never know what’s down the road for me.

What led you to writing? Was it a dream you always had? ~Laura Wofford

Growing up, I loved to read, and always had my nose in a book. Then I began writing poetry and eventually moved on to plays and puppet scripts. From there I ventured into short stories and later, decided that what I really wanted to write was novels.

What is your favorite thing to do to unwind? ~Sylvia Gorton

I love to spend time outdoors. If I’m at home, I enjoy being outside where I can see and hear the things of nature in our yard. When I have the opportunity to go to the beach, I love beachcombing and collecting unusual shells.

I know Wanda has traveled to Hawaii and Florida. Is there a location you would love to see that you haven't yet gone?~Jeanette Fallon

The one place I would love to see is the Ark Experience in Kentucky. It’s definitely on my bucket list.

Are there more cookbooks planned for the future? How do you get all the recipes for the cookbooks? Are they all from personal Amish friends? What is your favorite recipe from one of your cookbooks?~Janet Nush

As far as I know, there are no new cookbooks planned in the near future. The recipes come from my Amish friends, and their friends and relatives. Sometimes the Amish and Mennonite contributors are people I don’t know personally but who have heard or read about the need for more recipes. One of my favorite recipes was given to me by a longtime Amish friend. It’s called “Angel Cream Pie” and it’s delicious!

 How do you decide on the themes for her cookbooks?~Erin Kessler

My publisher and I talk about various theme ideas and then they choose which ones to use.

Do you ever find yourself saying, “I don’t want to write anymore; I’m just tired.”~Tammy Layton

I have never thought I didn’t want to write on a permanent basis, but there are days when other things get in the way of writing, or I feel tired and unable to keep my focus. When that occurs, I need to take a little break. Writing has become like the air I breathe, and I need it and love it, but as with everything in life, there are times when short breaks are needed and appreciated.

Have you ever thought about writing a book of Amish home remedies and herbs as medicine, etc? If not, can you recommend a good book that is authentic Amish practices?~Jackie Tessnair

I don’t know of any Amish home remedy books, but it would make for an interesting and helpful book. Several of my cookbooks do offer some home remedies and mention specific herbs as medicine, however.

I lived near Old Order Amish growing up. I love how you are so accurate when you write about the Amish in your books. I realize you have a great background. Do you ever get to Michigan for book signings?~Karen Hoth

I have done a few signings in Michigan in the past, but nothing recently.

What is one series that you would love to go back to and why?~Shannon Spaulding

I’ve always wanted to revisit my Quilt Club series, which I am currently doing, in that this book is going to be a prequel to the series, showing what Emma was like as a young woman and how she began quilting and fell in love for the first time.

What age were you when you started writing?~Roberta McMahan

I began writing in the second grade with a poem about a moth. My teacher thought it was good and suggested that I might be an author someday.

Is there a place you'd love to visit so that you could use it as a setting?~Connie Saunders

My Amish friends love to travel, so I could probably pick just about anywhere for a setting if I went there to research. We even met Amish people in Niagara Falls several years ago, so that might make a good setting sometime in the future.

Would you plan on coming to Southern California Riverside for a book signing?~Keren Lyles

There are no current plans to visit California, but I never know what the future holds.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you choose to go?~Shelley Beachy

A return trip to Hawaii would be really nice. I love it there, no matter which island we visit.

Besides food recipes, do you use any other Amish made items in your home (cleaning supplies, health & beauty items, etc)?~Melissa Cutshaw

I do use a few Amish-made soaps and some health care items that I have found to be quite helpful. I also own a few Amish quilts and pieces of Amish-made furniture, which I cherish and appreciate because they are made so well.


Any hints on what the next series will be about?~Melissa Fox

In October of this year, my granddaughter, Richelle, who has written a few novellas with me in the past, has a book coming out called, “The Amish Ballerina.” My name is also on the book, since I helped her with some scenes and chapters, but the storyline is completely hers. As I stated in a previous answer to a question, I’m currently working on a prequel to the Half-Stitched Quilting Club series. That book is scheduled to come out in March 2026. I will also soon be co-authoring a novel with my daughter, Lorine, which will be published in May 2026.

How do the Amish around the table know when everyone is done praying?~Jackie Tessnair

Sometimes there is a rustling sound or clearing of someone’s throat. Or, if in doubt, I just open my eyes when I’m through praying, and wait until others around the table do the same.

Does Wanda have the recipe for Uncle Moses drawing sauve? I used to get this from an Amish lady and haven’t seen it in years. Works great for kids with a bandaid to draw out splinters with no tears as well as other things!~Lori Hart

No, sorry, I don’t have that recipe. Sounds like a good one, though.
 
Thank you for Author Spotlight, Wanda. I hope to see you around here, and I hope you stop by once in a while. Thank you to the Admin and the Questions for us Members of Wanda Cippity Clap Club for these and for allowing us to use the Questions in a blog post (Author Spotlight Post).

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