“Blessings on State Street”

Sound familiar?!?
It’s actually the title of a new book by Rachael Bloome.

In addition to the title, the author states that the story is loosely inspired by our life here at Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast in Jacksonville, Illinois. Or maybe I should say, loosely “inn-spired!”

I read books late at night for relaxation. When looking for new titles I often search “bed and breakfast” because… well, innkeeping is my passion. I was first introduced to Rachael Bloome as the author of the Poppy Creek Series, a sweet uplifting series, with characters you want to be lifelong friends with, a little romance, humor, a lot of heart, and the thing that always draws me in… a bed & breakfast! Everything that makes for great light reading. Or a Hallmark movie!

I started following Rachael on Facebook and became involved in her reader’s group. Although she’s much younger, it’s been fun to get to know her and understand more about her writing process. I’ve offered support around innkeeping topics, because, after all… I’m an innkeeper!

A few months ago, having read our article in Bed & Breakfast Magazine, author Rachael Bloome reached out to me, very respectfully, asking if she could refer to parts of my personal story in a future book. What started as a “someday in the distant future” quickly became “Here are some details for your review.” She was led to change her timeline to write our story this year. Bless her heart, I think she still believes I’m doing her a favor by saying, “Yes.” In reality, I’m so excited I can hardly stand it!

I’ve read Blessings on State Street and it touches my heart. The author and I have many things in common – our love of Christmas, caring for children through foster care, honoring our military and our shared faith. I am amazed at how our Blessings will become her readers’ Blessings.

Blessings on State Street will first be released in early November in a Christmas anthology called, A Keepsake Christmas. You may preorder eBooks at all major outlets, I believe, and our stand-alone will be released in 2022.

I was thrilled to have Rachael even consider including our Blessings experiences. Her recent blog post shares more about how and why she chose to include us in her writing. When you read Blessings on State Street, you’ll find several themes that reflect our Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast. Some were planned and some were unexpected blessings!

Since Rachael has now shared the stand-alone Blessings on State Street cover publicly in her blog, I’m going to do the same.
Drumroll, please…
Happy Reading!

Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast is an award-winning all-suite inn located in Jacksonville, Illinois. Hospitality is our hallmark. We offer many amenities, including overnight accommodations in a 130-year-old vintage mansion, Wi-Fi, expansive lawn and gardens, all-season fireplaces, and multi-course breakfasts. Come see us! Our reviews reflect that guest satisfaction is a high priority.
Follow us on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Family Photo: ElCrow Photography and Design