Saturday, October 24, 2026

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour: The Secret Sauce by Fay A. Klingler

Book: The Secret Sauce: A Story of Apples, Robots, and a Grateful Heart (Rena Whittaker Book 2)

Author: Fay A. Klingler

Genre: Children Ages 6-11

Release Date: June 26, 2026

The recipe for joy? A grateful heart and helping hands!

When Rena Whittaker’s neighbor, Eithan, falls from a ladder and injures his ankle, Rena and her best friend Harper jump into action to help save his apple harvest. What begins as hard work soon turns into a day filled with laughter, teamwork, and an unexpected surprise that changes everything. In this engaging adventure, Rena discovers a powerful truth—happiness has a secret ingredient.

This tender, faith-filled story gently weaves together gratitude, service, and friendship. A beautiful choice for Christian families, thoughtful gifting, and parents and grandparents who want to share stories that nurture both faith and character.

Click here to get your copy!

Christian Children Books are always a great read. The Secret Sauce by Fay A. Klingler is Book 2 in the Rena Whittaker series. A great series for Children ages 6-11.

I really LOVE stories that teach an encouraging lesson to Children as they read and this book does just that. Rena Whittaker rushes to help her neighbor, Eithan, when he takes a fall from a ladder. Eithan has many apple trees that need to be picked and harvested and Rena gets help from her friend Harper to get the job done while Eithan recovers from his fall. Rena is young girl who tends to be selfish at times, yet when she saw her neighbor have a need, she didn't hesitate to help. The change of heart in Rena was very heartwarming. She put others first and that is a great lesson for children of all ages. I also enjoyed that Eithan was grateful for the help. Fall and Apple Picking is one of my favorite times of year and is also shows God's Beauty of Nature. I enjoyed all the Wonderful blessings that came from the Apple Harvest, especially the desserts. The book is one of showing Gratitude, Friendship, old fashioned Apple Recipes, and God's LOVE for our Neighbors. I HIGHLY recommend this book for Kids ages 6-11 and for Families to read together. GREAT BOOK!

Fay A. Klingler is an accomplished author and illustrator known for her award-winning work in both creative and technical writing. Her literary contributions span a wide range of subjects, with a particular focus on empowering women, promoting effective grandparenting, and guiding individuals through betrayal recovery. In addition to her inspirational works for adults, Fay is also recognized for her captivating children’s books, weaving together heartwarming stories that spark imagination and impart valuable life lessons. Her insights and expertise have made her a sought-after motivational speaker.

More from Fay

Ever made apple juice by pressing apples through an old wooden apple press? One of my favorite scenes in The Secret Sauce came about because it happened to me in real life—swallowing a fly! I was just a young teenager helping a neighbor press apples for juice. I opened my mouth and in flew a fly. Just like Harper in the story, I coughed and coughed to expel the insect, but instead I swallowed it! I’m the one taking this picture at my neighbor’s home.