A DEEPER WELL by Jill Eileen Smith, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

 Ancient Historical Biblical Fiction Retelling of the Woman at the Well, for Fans of The Chosen

 

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Based on the Biblical story of the Samaritan Woman at the well, the author draws on research into the customs of the day and area. While the Samaritans were separated from the Jews, they worshiped the same God and carried many of the same traditions. This story starts out as Nessa, claimed to be the most beautiful woman in Sychar, has just become of marriageable age and has to abide by her father’s decisions. She is painted as a victim of the times, being given in marriage to several men who either died or had her put away. The author made me care for Nessa and sympathize with the situations she was experiencing.
 

The redemption comes when Jesus travels with his disciples to Jacob’s Well. The story shows how much Jesus cares for the individual. Nessa has had many husbands but has never found a man who loves her for who she really is. Jesus shows her just such love even though He reveals her sins to her. I like that the author expands a bit on the story when the Samaritans ask Jesus to stay with them for two days. She postulates that He taught them through parables which seems entirely possible.
 

Nessa’s repentance causes her to joyfully tell her whole community about Jesus. Her surrender to God’s will results in something far better than the consequences of her past.
 

The author deftly portrayed how Nessa was bound in sin and tradition and how she was lifted up when she listened to the Master’s voice.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a strong faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Her broken heart thirsts for acceptance and love that seem out of reach--until an encounter at the well reveals what her soul truly longs for.

In ancient Israel, soon after Nessa is of marriageable age, her father gives her to a wealthy widowed friend, capitalizing on her beauty to bring in the highest bride-price he can find. Nessa is devastated, as she had begged to marry Lavi, who returned her love and saw more in her than her appearance. Nessa's betrothal leads to Lavi's departure, compounding her grief, and she can never forget her forbidden first love.

Nessa tries to accept her fate, but after only a year of marriage, tragedy hits her new family. She is sent back to her father, who quickly finds a young man who wants to marry the most beautiful woman in Sychar. Misfortune follows Nessa as she is passed from one marriage to the next--until she meets an unusual Jewish rabbi at the town's well one afternoon, and her life is forever changed.

Jill Eileen Smith weaves a historically and biblically rich narrative of the New Testament story of the woman at the well. Bringing a fresh perspective of faith and redemption, this biblical-era fiction is perfect for fans of Mesu Andrews, Tessa Afshar, and The Chosen.

Revell Publishing, February, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy A DEEPER WELL at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

  

TAMING LADY TEMPERANCE by Karen Witemeyer, Reviewed by Rebecca, Winnie, and Paula #ReleaseDay

 

 (The Secret Society of Spinsters Book #1):

 A Christian Opposites Attract Frontier Western Historical Romance with Cowboys

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"That man and his obnoxious charm. Good grief. She'd almost shared a smile with him."

Self declared independent woman, active member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, and recent recruit to the Secret Society of Spinsters, Noreen O'Sullivan doesn't have time to be making eyes at the handsome deputy sheriff of Albany, Texas, who has just bodily removed her (very politely, of course) from her temperance campaign in front of the local saloon. If she was being honest with herself, it had probably been a good idea, since the proprietor of the Salt Fork Saloon was getting a bit, shall we say, "salty"?

Deputy James Paxton takes his job as keeper of the peace very seriously, but the sassy Miss O'Sullivan is as pretty as a picture and stubborn as a mule. If he can just convince her to go about her public campaigning a little differently, oh, who he is kidding?

When James is forced to make a tricky decision, he and the purpose driven Miss O'Sullivan end up spending some unexpected time together, forcing them both to rethink priorities. Will it be enough?

What did I love most about this book? Virtually everything. The clever setting, the sparks of instantaneous attraction, the extraordinary word flow (I read all but 50 pages in one sitting) the deep spiritual truths, and of course the wit! . . . always the wit!

A perfectly delightful and engaging western romance!
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the publisher, the opinions stated above are entirely my own. 

 
WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“She’d grown lax of late. Hadn’t protested in nearly three weeks.”

“He couldn’t afford to let her out-stubborn him.”

With a setting in Texas in 1894, a heroine who is bound and determined to defend the cause of prohibition, and a deputy who is hoping to be elected sheriff and wants to keep the peace, what could possibly go wrong?

I’m always delighted to read another Karen Witemeyer story, and Taming Lady Temperance lived up to my anticipation. This first book in The Secret Society of Spinsters is full of well-drawn, multi-layered, and realistically flawed characters, and the story line caught my attention quickly.  

The main characters, Noreen O’Sullivan and Deputy James Paxton, are engaging and entertaining. Noreen is independent, headstrong, and spunky. Dependable and upstanding James is just the person to keep her in check. I thoroughly enjoyed the banter between them and the signature wit and humor Witemeyer injects into her stories. I found myself chuckling and laughing out loud at some of the pictures that were evoked.

“. . . this woman was on a mission. A mission that apparently involved him. He swallowed and steeled himself for what was to come. The tenacity he’d just admitted to admiring was about to bury its teeth into his leg, and he wasn’t at all certain he’d be able to shake free.”

“That man and his obnoxious charm. Good grief. She’d almost shared a smile with him. Thankfully, she’d stopped herself in time.”

It was satisfying to see the relationship between Noreen and James change as they interacted and began to get to know each other better. I loved the way they were able to work together and solve problems, even as they were exasperating each other.

“He might not have to worry about Noreen O'Sullivan ruining his chances to be elected sheriff, after all. Apparently, he was perfectly capable of blackening public opinion of his fitness for office all on his lonesome.”

“Her hackles had been raised, and he was bound to get jabbed by a few of them before this was over.”

With plenty of action, intrigue, inspiration, and romance, this book kept me turning the pages. The stellar cast of secondary characters added much to the tale, and I’m hoping that some of the Spinster Society sisters will get their own stories soon.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House. All opinions are my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Karen Witemeyer is back at it again. This time with a determined heroine Noreen, The Temperance Terror! In Albany, Texas when women were marching against the evils of alcohol, Noreen takes up the cause. Based on her background, she has seen the results from overindulgence.
 

Filled with humor and witty banter and a heroine who puts everything on the line for what she believes in, there is also Deputy James Paxton who must uphold the law even when the girl who catches his eye tends to break it!
 

“I won’t be placated, Deputy Paxton. And I won’t succumb to your charms, so aim that smile of yours elsewhere.” “But James found her fascinating as well. Hard not to with all that passion zinging around beneath her surface.” 

 
James has his work cut out for him when he encounters the feisty Noreen, while at the same time trying to appease the other inhabitants of the town. James is the perfect foil for Noreen as he dispenses godly wisdom with his steady demeanor.
 

Join the ladies of The Secret Society of Spinsters as they try to reform their little town in 1894. A totally enjoyable read with faith lessons, some excitement and a sweet romance.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a solid faith thread 

 

BackCover Blurb:
When passion for justice conflicts with the heart, which will prevail?

Noreen O'Sullivan is an enthusiastic member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union and believes herself called to defend the cause of prohibition. When she's invited to join the Secret Society of Spinsters, Noreen jumps at the chance to rally others to her movement and shut down the local saloon for good. However, her passionate campaigning often puts her at odds with the men around her--including the local deputy.

Deputy James Paxton believes in preserving the peace, but Miss O'Sullivan has been disturbing his peace for months. If James wants to be elected sheriff, he can't afford to be seen as her ally. But when Noreen ropes him into helping her plan a temperance march, their growing closeness sparks unexpected feelings. Then tensions escalate at the saloon and accusations fly. James must choose between upholding his badge and protecting the woman who's captured his heart--knowing either choice could cost him everything.

Karen Witemeyer presents a swoony Western romance with a determined heroine, cowboys, prohibition, and the rivals-to-lovers and duty vs. desire tropes. Fans of Mary Connealy and frontier romances set in the Old West will savor this clean, historical read.

Bethany House Publishing, February, 2026
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy TAMING LADY TEMPERANCE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

DEADLY CURRENTS by Elizabeth Goddard, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula #ReleaseDay

(Hidden Bay Book #3): 

Action-Filled Christian Romantic Suspense with Mystery and Adventure

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"International. An abandoned salvage ship. Murders. Cressida's father and his research."

Everything in Cressida Dane's life revolved around finishing her deceased father's manuscript, leaving her with just one one additional unresolved shipwreck tale to unravel. Arriving in Hidden Bay seemed fairly innocuous at first, but she had barely put one foot in front of the other on its sandy beach when she was attacked and presumed dead by her assailant. After being shuffled to safety, county detective Braden Sanders becomes involved in the case. Unbeknownst to Cressida, Braden knows more about her and her reason for visiting Hidden Bay than he lets on.

Working hard to discover the answers that her father had been unable to ferret out about the infamous Specter's Bounty, Cressida is yet to talk to anyone who has the kind of reliable information that she seeks, in fact, she gets warned off time and time again. Equally as confused, Braden cannot piece together why he has been tagged to protect the daughter of a high level government bureaucrat, knowing that Cressida will be furious when she discovers what her mother has done . . . again.

Fighting a tight time schedule, this plot begins rapidly and maintains a brisk pace, even for the characters. Fans of the series will be delighted to learn more about the life of Evelyn Monroe, an enigmatic character with a generous heart. Meanwhile, Cressida and Braden will be discovering anew how to trust and forgive, because their hearts desperately long for something lasting, even amidst the ever present deadly currents.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Revell through Interviews and Reviews. 3.5 stars. I also bought a copy.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
A mysterious ghost ship, long buried secrets, and a quest to find the truth bring Cressida Valentine and County Deputy Braden Sanders together.
 

Braden is tasked with protecting Cressida by her estranged mother Octavia Dane, who is an influential government figure. In exchange Octavia holds the acess to a life giving drug that his niece needs.
 

The atmosphere of a rugged coast in Washington state sets the stage for a mesmerizing story.
 

Cressida is trying to complete a book her father started before his death about maritime shipwrecks. But as she tries to find out more about Specter’s Bounty, she hits nothing but roadblocks and several attempts on her life. Deputy Braden investigates and grows closer to her. But he has secrets to keep too.
 

Many complicated connections, interesting side characters and a mystery that could have deadly consequences make this a fantastic story that was hard to put down. Thorny spiritual questions plague the characters such as: when is it right to keep information from someone, and how is it possible to forgive when a person is hurt so badly. The author handled those situations with grace.
 

A top read, for sure.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and an underlying faith thread 

 

BackCover Blurb:
USA Today Bestselling Author Elizabeth Goddard Presents a Gripping Thrill Ride

Investigative journalist Cressida Dane arrives in Hidden Bay after a worldwide journey to finish her late father's manuscript on shipwrecks. As she tries to discover the story behind the "ghost ship" Specter's Bounty, her only lead is a name her father left behind--Evelyn Monroe. As Cressida uncovers more about the ship, she quickly realizes that her research has placed her in the crosshairs of dangerous forces.

County detective Braden Sanders is in Hidden Bay for one reason--to get his niece lifesaving medical treatment. To do that, he is assigned to protect Cressida from a revenge-driven enemy. Together, Braden and Cressida dig deeper to discern the myth from the facts surrounding the Specter's Bounty.

But more is brewing under the surface than they could ever imagine. Entangled in secrets, they must unravel the past before the current sweeps away their future. 

Revell Publishing, February, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy DEADLY CURRENTS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

UNDERCOVER WISH by Danielle Grandinetti, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency Series Prequel

 

PAULA REVIEWS:
Inspired by Aladdin and the Magic Lamp, this story takes place in 1890 during the construction of the Columbian Exhibition in Chicago. It has a solid faith thread infused in the story.
 

Ali De Stasio is a journalist who works undercover. She is hot on a story but needs evidence in order to expose corruption and proof in order to submit the story for publication.
 

While in disguise, she encounters Griffeth Moorland, the son of the rich businessman who heads the construction company building the venues for the Exhibition. Griff has already sensed something is not quite right in his father’s company. Griff and Ali team up to face danger and intrigue as they search for the truth. Cupid strikes along the way in this informative look back in history.
 

I grew up in a Chicago suburb and relished the history of the Fair. It always amazed me that most of the buildings were torn down after the Exhibition. I visited several of the few that were still standing. It must have been a fascinating time to live in.
 

This was a wonderful start to a new series. It is sure to be a favorite for those interested in Chicago history. 
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Hearth Spot Books. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread

 

BackCover Blurb:
Wealth is but an illusion, hers to wield and his to escape.

CHICAGO, Ill., 1892—Stunt reporter Ali Di Stasio will risk anything to expose the truth and protect her fellow orphans, including rummaging through trash bins and putting herself in the crosshairs of the dangerous elite. After living on the streets, she knows every corner of her city, which means she can stay one step ahead of the cops, the powerful men who'd love to silence her before she can reveal their secrets, and the occasional wealthy bachelor wandering through her alleyways, lost and in danger of being mugged.

Griff Moorland, heir-apparent to his father's shipping enterprise, is summoned home to Chicago's wealthiest neighborhood for one purpose: marriage. Worse, his choices are to marry the conniving daughter of his father's business partner or an heiress with a sizable dowry. If he doesn't comply before the contract to bring in steel for the Columbian Exposition ends? His ailing mother will be stranded across an ocean, homeless.

Caught between keeping his mother alive and his father's questionable business practices, Griff needs a way out of the bind his father has put him in. When Ali swoops in like a knight in shining armor, she insists the pen is mightier than a sword. But with the Chicago World's Fair fast approaching, sinister forces conspire against them. Will love prove only a mirage, or will it be strong enough to set them free?
 

La Verità con Integrità. Truth with Integrity. The Legacy of a (Girl) Stunt Reporter.
A Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency origin story and a retelling of Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.

Fans of Danielle Grandinetti’s 1930s historical romance will enjoy Undercover Wish, the prequel that introduces the founder of the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency and bridges Harbored in Crow's Nest with this new series.

Hearth Spot Press, February, 2026

Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon