Before we share info about this month’s book, we want to recognize that this month’s “Community Kindness Sponsor” (which helps offset the cost of the extra 20 books we hide after scavenger hunt weekend every month – the “random act of kindness” books) is our friend Tommy Tronsdal!!! We are so grateful for his support in creating a bookish community rooted in kindness. He’s been supporting us for several years, so please send some gratitude his way, as he’s helping make this month’s book-hiding adventure possible!

Do you know someone who might be interested in partnering with us as a Community Kindness Sponsor in 2026 ($250)? We still have four months available for sponsors in 2026. Please send us an email (tucsontomegnome[at] gmail.com), and we can send you some information 🙂

AND NOW, for what you’ve been waiting for: all about this month’s hidden book!

About the book, from Penguin Random House:

“As the youngest and most rebellious daughter of the overly protective Luna family, Gabriela Luna Valdés claws after her freedom in any way she can. This time, her hunger for adventure has led her aboard a windswept ship bearing for her homeland, away from a mob of fumbling British suitors. But Gabby can’t escape her father’s expectation that she settle down to find a proper husband—a compromise she’s unwilling to make.

For Sebastian Brooks, Duke of Whitfield, the trip to Mexico is his last chance. His last chance to rectify his family’s estate and refill their dwindling coffers. And his last chance to match wits with the sharp-tongued but deliciously tempting Gabriela.

When Gabby finds herself in need of a hasty escape, Sebastian agrees to assist her… but their close proximity sparks a red-hot passion that could ruin all their plans. With scandal looming, can Sebastian convince Gabby his regard is sincere, or will she sail away with his heart?”

About the author, Liana De la Rosa:

“Liana De la Rosa is a USA Today bestselling romance author who writes historical and contemporary romance with Latine characters that challenge the world around them. Her books have received starred reviews from trade publications like Kirkus, Library Journal, and Booklist, and have been praised by the New York Times, Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, the Boston Globe, and more. Liana is a graduate of the University of Arizona, and when she’s not writing, Liana is listening to true crime podcasts while she wrangles her spirited brood of children with her husband in Arizona.”

Why I selected Gabriela and His Grace for the February 2026 Giveaway:

• I love hiding stories that stand perfectly on their own but open doors to more: This novel is the third book in a trilogy, yet it’s a complete, satisfying adventure on its own (though you may find yourself curious to follow the other formidable sisters and their own bold paths!).
• This book shines a light on a chapter of history that many U.S. readers rarely encounter: set against the conflict between Mexico and France, it reminds us that women were not merely observers of history, but they were informed, engaged, and determined to influence the political world around them.
• Gabriela herself is exactly the kind of heroine I enjoy sharing. She is fiery, loyal, quick to defend those she loves, and unafraid to speak or act when justice calls.
• Since February is the month of love, this gnome appreciates a good love story… Gabriela and Sebastian’s romance is passionate, complicated, and deeply heartfelt. It’s a warm, lively pairing to brighten the cooler season.
• AND I’m especially delighted to hide this one knowing its author, Liana De la Rosa, is an Arizonan who will be joining us at the Tucson Festival of Books in a few weeks! We can’t wait for you all to find this book and meet her soon!