VYING FOR A GROOM by Sophie Leigh Fox, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt

LOVE, MOST ARDENTLY SERIES #2

TRIXI'S REVIEW:
I absolutely adored the first book in the “Love, Most Ardently” series, so you bet I was happily anticipating this one. I quickly snapped it up to read and post my honest thoughts!

At first, I thought this was going to be a love triangle from what took place in just the first two chapters. I am definitely not a fan of those! Upon reading further, I found that was not the case in this novel. Both Cassandra and Sir Raleigh were secretly involved with other people when they first met. An instant connection was formed, but there was no way to make it a reality between these two. Cassandra was in love with the head groom Charlie and Sir Raleigh was engaged due to a compromised situation with a lady. What a complicated mess they found themselves in! I loved how Fox (eventually) worked everything out in the end.

This was an angsty, emotional, and deeply involved story that drew me in because I just HAD to know what happened at every twist and turn. Fox certainly knows how to write a story that includes a bit of drama, scandal and intrigue. I also loved revisiting Willa and James from the first book, it always makes me wonder what happens to these wonderful characters. I love when an author somehow includes them in the sequel novel!

I’m giving this a four-star rating because the end left me with a couple of important questions that left me hanging. I would love the answer for (a bit of a spoiler here); WHAT happened to Charlie and WHY did he leave suddenly? I think he was a character that deserved a more satisfactory conclusion!

All in all, this was a delightful tale and I think anyone who enjoys Regency romance with all the elements I mentioned above will love. Fox also includes a faith thread that warms my soul. Hopefully, there will be a third book? Because the ending leads to the possibility of Genevieve’s story next … and I say, bring it on! *smile*
*I received a complimentary copy from the author through Interviews and Reviews and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone. *

BackCover Blurb:
A lady’s companion and a Royal Navy captain are secretly involved…but not with each other.

Alarmed after receiving news of her adoptive parents’ perilous missionary assignment to India, Cassandra Lawton leaves her position as a companion to seek solace with her only remaining family in Surrey. At Heighbury Manor, the dutiful Cassandra reconnects with her childhood friend, now a ruggedly handsome groom. Their difference in class forces them to conceal a budding romance. As she struggles to navigate these new feelings, Cassandra’s hopes are challenged when an unexpected rival appears.

After Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo, Royal Navy Captain Sir Raleigh Burgess returns home ready to settle down and marry. But the woman to whom he was forced to become engaged after being caught in an intimate embrace refuses to announce their plans to wed formally. After receiving a stark warning that casts doubts on her character, Raleigh’s misgivings about his betrothed further complicate his future.

Whilst visiting Heighbury Manor, Raleigh forms an immediate connection with Cassandra. Suspicious of the groom’s duplicitous advances despite his own concealed relationship, he attempts to protect Cassandra’s virtuous character. Raleigh’s frustration multiplies when his betrothed appears and stirs up Heighbury Manor with a shocking revelation.

Will Cassandra’s hidden romance ruin her lifelong friendship with the groom? Will Raleigh’s coerced proposal unveil his bride-to-be’s deceitful intentions?

After lies are exposed and romances are shattered, who will be left vying for a groom? 

Mellow and Mayhem Publishing, September, 2025

Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon

SENSE AND SUITABILITY by Pepper Basham, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

A sweet Regency, enemies-to-lovers rom-com

PAULA'S REVIEW:
With her signature wit, Pepper Basham has written another winner in a new genre for her: Sense and Suitability is patterned after the beloved Jane Austen tome.

Emmeline Lockhart is a secret authoress and has not found a suitor since Simon Reeves disappeared at a ball two years ago. Tragedy struck Simon and subsequently he inherits not only a title but plenty of problems and sizable debt. In true Austen and Regency fashion, hero Simon must find a wealthy lady to save his estate, when his heart yearns for respectable but not so wealthy heroine Emme.

The story is peopled with familiar characters such as clergyman cousins, interfering but well meaning aunts, jealous conniving female rivals, lovable but unruly siblings and bothersome unsuitable suitors.

And who can resist the romantic scenes with kisses to make you swoon, not to mention an unexpected splash in a pond and a Darcy-like hero emerging from said pond.

Loads of fun, romance, angst, and good spiritual lessons. It will be hard to wait for the next Regency from this author. I know it will be just as captivating.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*Beyond 5 stars and a solid faith thread 

BackCover Blurb:
After two failed social seasons, her family may think the third time will be a charm, but Emmeline Lockhart just wants to survive with her dignity (and singleness) intact. She thought she'd found her perfect match in Simon Reeves--charming, handsome, a veritable hero from a novel--until he vanished from her life without so much as a "farewell" or "my deepest regrets" (or even a vague apology scribbled on the back of a calling card). Lesson learned: never fall for a man known for his charm.

Fortunately, and unlike many of the other eligible young ladies of the ton, Emmeline has no need for a husband--because she's already found success in her scandalous (and very anonymous) profession as an author. Why bother with matrimony when she can make her own fortune and write men exactly the way she wants them?

But fate--or the misfortune of Simon's reckless patriarchs--has other plans. Simon's once-proud estate is in shambles, his family fortune has been gambled away, and the younger impressionable siblings in his care are running wild across his estate (and possibly across all of England). Simon is in desperate need of a wealthy, prestigious bride . . . and a friend.

Emmeline may not fit the role of heiress, but she can certainly be a friend. Just a friend. She'll help him find a suitable match, ensure his reputation remains intact, and keep things strictly platonic--no matter how dangerously appealing his new-and-improved sincerity and regret may be.

There's just one small problem: the undeniable chemistry that still smolders between them. Can Emme play matchmaker for the man she's still in love with without losing her heart all over again? And is it possible that some love stories--especially the messy, inconvenient, impossible ones--are worthy of a rewrite?

Filled with lively banter, adorable children, a frog named Blast, and swoony kisses, Sense and Suitability is the sweet Regency romance you've been looking for. Basham brings her signature humor to the Regency era where social strictures keep the tension tight in this second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance.

Thomas Nelson Publishing, October, 2025

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook

Buy SENSE AND SUITABILITY at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

SUGAR BIRDS by Cheryl Grey Bostrom, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"The trees would hold her until she figured out what to do next."

When a tragic fire burns her house to the ground, ten-year-old Aggie Hayes takes off to the woods, the only other place she calls home. Climbing between tree tops and living off the natural bounty of the forest, she evades search parties, believing that she will be apprehended for causing what was in reality a horrible accident. From her perch amongst the birds she observes another young woman who is considering running away, Celia Burke.

Celia Burke is furious. Upon the pretense of a summer vacation, her father proceeds to drop Celia off with her grandmother before leaving to work a long distance contract. Her Gram's property soon becomes part of a search grid for a missing young girl, Aggie Hayes. After befriending Aggie's older brother who works at a nearby dairy farm, Celia also allows herself to be charmed by a handsome face who makes dangerous promises. And curiously enough, Celia feels that Aggie is closer than anyone thinks and will likely need her help.

After settling in, this story's multi-sensory appeal plunges the reader high up into the tree tops where Aggie takes up temporary residence. Her fear, her anxiety, her sorrow, her guilt, are overwhelmingly palpable before tiny shards of hope begin to penetrate the vast tree canopy. Aggie's heavenly Father was nearer than she ever imagined and His voice whispered assurances from the depths of her despair. And Celia? The same could be said about her, even though her feet remained firmly on the ground.

An outstanding story of hope, miracles and restoration!
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars

 

BackCover Blurb:
For years, Harris Hayes has taught his daughter, Aggie, the ways of the northern woods, where she sketches nests of wild birds as an antidote to sadness. Then her depressed, unpredictable mother forbids her to climb the trees that give her sanctuary and comfort. Angry, ten-year-old Aggie accidentally lights a tragic fire and flees downriver. She lands her boat near untamed forest, then hides among trees and creatures she believes are her only friends—determined to remain undiscovered.

A search party gathers hours after Celia arrives at her grandmother's nearby farm. Hurting from her parents' breakup, she also plans to run. But when she joins the hunt for Aggie, she meets two irresistible young men who compel her to stay. One is autistic; the other, dangerous.

Ideal for fans of The Scent Keeper, Where the Crawdads Sing, and The Great Alone, Sugar Birds is a layered, riveting story set in the breathtaking natural world—where characters encounter the mending power of forgiveness, for themselves and for those who have failed them.
 

(Winner of multiple Earphones Awards and the prestigious Odyssey and Odyssey Honor Awards, Jayne Entwistle's narration has landed on Audiofile Magazine's list of Best Audiobooks of the Year.)

 WINNER: 2021 AMERICAN FICTION AWARDS - Literary, General, and Cross Genre Fiction.

WINNER: CHRISTIANITY TODAY’S 2022 BOOK AWARDS - Award of Merit in Fiction

WINNER: 2021 BEST BOOK AWARD - Inspirational Fiction

SILVER MEDALIST: 2021 READER'S FAVORITE AWARD - Inspirational Fiction

FINALIST: 2021 AMERICAN FICTION AWARDS - Religious Fiction

NORTHWEST WASHINGTON STATE, 1985

Tyndale Fiction, October, 2023

Available in digital ebook, paperback, library binding, and audiobook

BUY SUGAR BIRDS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

A SONG IN THE DARK by Kimberley Woodhouse, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

A Novel of World War Two

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"She prayed that others would rise up. It only took a few."

After surviving the awful blast that killed her parents, prodigious young pianist Chaisley Frappier lost her eyesight. Under the attentive care of a most beloved grandmother and their family physician, Chaisley learns to navigate a new path, one that eventually forms her into one of the most sought after concert pianists in the world. Most amazing was the fact that her audience had no idea that she was blind.

While Chaisley was thriving, the world around her was becoming increasingly more difficult to survive, especially for those whose ethnicity did not meet German standards and whose handicaps made them susceptible to inhumane treatment. Entering into a lengthy European tour, Chaisley and her faithful companion Melanie place their wellbeing into the strong, capable hands of their enigmatic chauffeur, Rick Zimmerman. His calm, steady presence grows into a friendship that Chaisley never expected, especially after their goals become united and they choose to use Chaisley's travel and connections to offer hope to the least among them.

A daring dive into the shadows of impending war where the melody still plays for those brave enough to listen.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars

 SEE  PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Her music captivates crowds. His mission exposes secrets. Their courage defies a dictator.

Against the simmering backdrop of impending war, blind virtuoso pianist Chaisley Frappier embarks on a concert tour through a rapidly changing Europe. When she learns that Hitler's regime of injustice is targeting other disabled people, Chaisley realizes she is in a prime position to help those who are threatened reach safety. But the Führer's growing fascination with the celebrated musician endangers her undercover mission and forces her to walk a tightrope between her fame and her calling.

When Rick Zimmerman receives his next assignment from the British Secret Intelligence Service, he is surprised to learn he'll be acting as the personal driver of a world-renowned pianist as she tours Europe. The role gives him the perfect cover to complete missions of sabotage and intelligence-gathering, but he soon suspects the brilliant, alluring pianist has secrets of her own. As Chaisley and Rick confront evil at every turn, it will take every bit of faith and courage they possess to triumph over hate--and survive.

Bethany House Publishing, September, 2025

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

Buy A SONG IN THE DARK at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

 

FULFILLING HER CHRISTMAS WISH by Liwen Y. Ho, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt #ReleaseDay

 

A SMALL TOWN CHRISTMAS ROMANCE from the

CHRISTMAS IN REDEMPTION RIDGE SERIES

TRIXI'S REVIEW:

"For those who believe that love is possible at any age." ~Liwen Ho

Okay, this story has SO much going for it:

1. It’s love found after the loss of a spouse

2. It’s a friends-to-more (though formed over the span of MANY years)

3. It’s later in life love (both Lottie and Trevor are in their 70’s)

Those reasons alone sparked my interest in the story. Unusual circumstances or unique characters always make me want to read the book, and this delivered a thousand-fold! Anything, and I do mean anything, written by the pen of Liwen Ho is an automatic must-read… I don’t care what troupe or genre it is. I know it’s going to be enjoyable, entertaining, full of characters to care about and a natural faith thread throughout.

I think the reason why my favorite trope in a book is friends-to-more is because my husband and I were the same. We created a strong (mostly long-distance) friendship that formed a steadfast foundation for a love discovered. So, I can understand Lottie’s need to not ruin her friendship with Trevor by confessing she’s loved him for years. He was absolutely clueless! Until she decided she was done waiting to travel the world, then he realized how much of his life was wrapped around Lottie an how much she would be missed once she was gone. It made him realize that over many years, his heart had turned to love after all! But convincing her would be the challenge—one he’s willing to accept!

Everything about this story was good and I enjoyed seeing Trevor and Lottie discover their feelings for one another deepened with a life-long friendship. Sweetly satisfying all around, and I just think these two were so cute together! If you like sweet love stories full of heart, laughter, characters that are like friends, faith and that happily-ever-after you’re looking for, then I highly recommend this book to you!
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone. *

BackCover Blurb
After a lifetime of unspoken love, is it ever too late for a second chance?

Lottie Lawson has spent her life in the quiet town of Redemption Ridge, content to hide her heart behind a cheerful smile. But turning seventy—and facing an unexpected health crisis—makes her realize that waiting for love is no longer an option. With courage and a suitcase in hand, she sets her sights on the big-city dreams she once tucked away.

Trevor Kelly has built a good life—his beloved restaurant, his close-knit family, and the unwavering support of his late wife’s best friend, Lottie. She’s always been there, the steady presence through grief, joy, and everything in between. But when Lottie announces she’s leaving town, Trevor is blindsided. The thought of not having her around makes him question what place she really holds in his heart.

Will these two lifelong friends learn to trust each other and discover that love is possible at any age?

Return to Redemption Ridge, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters in this Christian Christmas Romance.

Available October 2025 in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon  Look for it in Kindle Unlimited as well.

RICHES BEYOND MEASURE by Mary Connealy, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

 Christian Historical Western Frontier Romance

 with Adventure, Cowboys, and a Treasure Hunt

PAULA'S REVIEW
Riches Beyond Measure concludes the Golden State Treasure series by Mary Connealy. This one starts out with an earthquake that shakes up a whole lot of things-but not the resolve of the characters to finally find the hidden treasure that Graham McKenzie buried and left clues to before he died.

The Two Harts Ranch is base for the Harts and Cord Westbrook to venture from to locate the treasure. While evaluating the damage to buildings in the aftermath of the earthquake, 300 year old artifacts are discovered missing. Their quest for additional treasure has just gotten riskier.

Ms. Connealy crafts a complex, dangerous, realistic story and yet manages to pen a satisfying romance between Annie and Cord, two honorable, faith filled people.

I liked the drama of the hunt for the treasure and the clear delineation between the greed of the thieves and the motivations of the Harts, McKenzies, and Westbrooks. The protagonists showed that even though they had wealth, their treasure was really spiritual. They recognized that God was the source of all things and sought to serve others.

This was a satisfying conclusion to the series with hints of another worthy series to come.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*4.5 stars and a solid faith thread 

BackCover Blurb
When they leave the ranch in search of stolen treasure, will the spark between them survive the perils ahead?

When an earthquake strikes Two Harts Ranch, it shakes the life of Annie Lane along with that of Cord Westbrook, who has been working as a cowboy on Annie's family ranch in anticipation of purchasing his own. The only thing delaying his plan is the deep attraction he feels toward Annie, a widow with a child and an established life as a teacher at the Hart School for Orphans. Unfortunately for Cord, she seems determined to avoid romance.

The aftermath of the earthquake reveals that prized artifacts from the long-sought MacKenzie's Treasure have been stolen from the ranch. But the return of the MacKenzie family from out east has everyone focused on what other precious finds might be waiting at the end of the legendary two-part map. As Cord, Annie, and the MacKenzies set out in search of riches, they face dangers more treacherous than earthquakes. With gold in their sights and love within reach, Cord and Annie realize that some treasures may fade, but life's true riches are far more valuable than earthly goods.

Embark on a rousing California wilderness adventure filled with danger, deception, and second chances in this riveting conclusion to Mary Connealy's Golden State Treasure series--ideal for fans of frontier romances, cowboys, and treasure hunts.

Bethany House Publishing, October, 2025

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

Buy RICHES BEYOND MEASURE at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

A VERY ENGLISH CHRISTMAS by Turansky, Johnson, and Gray. Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

Three Literary-Inspired Novellas

PAULA'S REVIEW:

A Very English Christmas by Carrie Turansky, Carol Lehr Johnson and Margurite Martin Gray is just the book to read this holiday season.
 

An antique shop ties the three stories together by highlighting three items and thus three notable authors: Jane Austen, Charles Dickens and Beatrix Potter.
 

These modern day authors crafted sweet romances of fictional people who had a connection to the famous authors. And there is a hint of another romance about to bloom in the contemporary tie in.
 

The authors each captured the flavor of Austen, Dickens and Potter in their segments, giving each one a friend who brought out exceptional qualities. The stories conveyed a true message of faith in a natural way.
 

It was hard to choose a favorite story because they all felt so cozy and true to life. A Very English Christmas was a real joy to read.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Flowing Streams Books on behalf of the authors.I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread.

 

BackCover Blurb:
Celebrate the season with three timeless tales inspired by Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Beatrix Potter.

When Emma Grace Langley retreats to her grandmother’s antique shop in the snowy Cotswolds after heartbreak and job loss, she hopes to find clarity. Instead, she finds a collection of heirlooms—a portrait, a rare book, and a charming figurine—that unlock stories from the past. As each tale unfolds, Emma is drawn into the lives of three remarkable women whose lives were touched by England’s greatest storytellers.

In A Portrait of Faith, devoted daughter Violet Walford longs for a life beyond duty to her family. When she is asked to paint a portrait of lively Regency-era author Jane Austen, their unexpected friendship inspires Violet to pursue life and love with new courage.

In A Victorian Christmas Tale, Clara Reynolds struggles against physical challenges and family expectations while falling in love with John, a writer with ties to Charles Dickens. Their work at the London Foundling Hospital brings healing, hope, and a Christmas transformation that would make Scrooge proud.

And in A Tale of the Season, Edwardian heiress Arabella Graham escapes to the Lake District and meets a charming country veterinarian—as well as artist and children's author Beatrix Potter. With gentle wisdom and the peace of a country Christmas, Arabella discovers the joy of finding her own path.

Blending romance, inspiration, and literary nostalgia, A Very English Christmas is the perfect holiday escape for fans of historical fiction and classic English authors. 

 

Flowing Stream Books, October, 2025

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook

Buy A VERY ENGLISH CHRISTMAS AT   Amazon

 

THE HEART OF BENNET HOLLOW by Joanne Bischof DeWitt, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:
The Heart of Bennet Hollow by Joanne Bischof DeWitt is based on the much loved Pride and Prejudice. This story is a gem. The bones of P and P are there, the familiar characters are there, the tension is there but the author has made it uniquely her own with an Appalachian flair.
 

I learned a lot about the mountain coal industry and culture that other stories have not brought out. The setting was key to the story. I fell in love with the romance of sisters Jane and Lizzy. Their suitors were men of integrity. The Bennet family was very close and mimicked Jane Austen’s well.
 

The descriptions of New River, Virginia, the mine and the rail car brought the story to life. The characters and their faith journey were memorable as they matured in their outlook.
 

Fans of Pride and Prejudice will enjoy this take on the story in the mountains of Virginia in 1904.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread 

BackCover Blurb:
An Appalachian farmer’s daughter and a wealthy businessman find a surprising love but must reckon with what divides them in this retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice by the award-winning author of The Lady and the Lionheart.

New River, Virginia. 1904. Lizbeth Bennet longs to preserve her family’s farm, securing a future for her and her sisters, a difficult task in their Appalachian coal mining town. Money is scarce, and Lizbeth is determined to find a way without giving up treasured pieces of her family’s legacy. But when the mine is put up for sale, it’s clear change is approaching. A contingent of coal barons descends on the town to investigate whether the mine is worth their investment, among them a young man rumored to be a very rich, eligible bachelor.

William Drake arrives focused on business and keeping his distance from the townspeople, especially those living on land entangled with the mine, including a farmer by the name of Bennet. As William digs through legal issues, his struggle to weigh the potential financial gain against what is right for the community grows more complicated when he meets one of the Bennet daughters.

Despite an awkward first meeting, Lizbeth and William continue to cross paths, and soon Lizbeth questions her first impression of the man she believed to be proud and indifferent. But just as their friendship begins to evolve, a revelation shakes Lizbeth’s tenuous trust, and she learns all may not be as it seems. To determine what is true, and step toward a love she’s barely dared dream of, Lizbeth must confront her own prejudices . . . and decide whether the future she’s always imagined is the one her heart truly wants most after all.

-An inspirational historical romance retelling of Pride and Prejudice for fans of Julie Klassen, Sally Britton, and Sarah E. Ladd
-A clever, clean love story
-Southern historical fiction in the vein of Michelle Shocklee and Pepper Basham
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs

 

Tyndale Fiction, October, 2025

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

Buy THE HEART OF BENNET HOLLOW at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THE STORIES WE CARRY by Robin W. Pearson, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney #ReleaseDay

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Her store, her mainstay. Her home. All the guests who'd trooped through its doors and the stories they purchased as well as the ones they carried with them and left behind."

Glory Pryor's bookstore, aptly named By The Book, was the culmination of her life's work. Now, having married later in life, her loving husband of just five years had begun dropping hints that the large three story space housing her business as well as their home was becoming a bit more burden than blessing. But Gloria? She was not about to leave. Her roots went deeper than its strong foundation, she and that store were a story.

When a young widow and her son descend upon the premises, Glory's finely honed instincts smell trouble brewing. And she's right, and she's wrong. When it all shakes down, Adelle Simonette becomes a chapter that Glory never knew needed to be written.

By the time I finished this beautifully prosed story, I wanted to live in this bookstore, sit around the kitchen table with these characters, and hash out best book quotes for the town festival. Why? Because the stories that we read, the stories we may write, and the stories that we tell are who we were made to be, so why are we at all surprised when God adjusts the endings?
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 

 

BackCover Blurb:
A small-town bookstore owner finds herself at odds with a newcomer bent on disrupting her quiet life in this Southern women’s fiction novel by award-winning author Robin W. Pearson.

Glory Pryor has carved out a life for herself in Gilmore, North Carolina, cultivating a community around her bookstore, By the Book. While her business is a success, she carries the weight of stories of her own she’s never told anyone. She holds out hope that one day her estranged brother will turn up on her doorstep so she can finally learn where he’s been all these years. Glory’s husband Eli thinks she has her arms wrapped too tightly around the could-have-beens, and that it’s time for them to let go of the store as they head into their retirement years. Glory has different opinions on that—she’s not ready to give up the dream she’s built just yet. Then Adelle Simonette shows up with her young son, Bennett, and Glory’s carefully controlled life begins to crumble.

Newly widowed Adelle Simonette is a single mother trying to find her footing and navigate parenting her young son. Lost in her grief, one thing she’s certain of is that she needs to confront Glory Pryor and everybody who knows her because the woman’s been living a lie. Adelle thinks it’s high time Glory made things right. But Adelle’s finding it hard to tell the truth . . . and there will be no going back once she does.

In the wake of deeply personal grief and loss, two women reckon with a lifetime of silence and secrets to find a path forward toward healing, hope, and restoration.

-Contemporary women’s fiction for fans of Denise Hunter, Vanessa Miller, Rachel Hauck, and Rhonda McKnight
-A small-town Southern saga that features bookish heroines and themes of family, forgiveness, and reconciliation
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs 

 

Tyndale Fiction, October, 2025

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THE STORIES WE CARRY at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

OUT OF TIME by Irene Hannon, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney #ReleaseDay

UNDAUNTED COURAGE #3 

A Clean Romantic Suspense Thriller Set in a Shadowy Mysterious Estate

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Her dream sabbatical was not off to an auspicious start."

Arriving at Natalie Boyer's unfrequented estate in rural Missouri, associate anthropology professor Cara Tucker hoped the flashing lights weren't a sign of things to come. Yes, her benefactor was in her eighties, but had clearly been coherent and physically able upon initial introduction. Accepting the sheriff's request to keep an eye out for any recurring dizzy spells or falls, it seemed the initial emergency call had been merely precautionary.

As the days passed, Cora and Natalie developed a rhythm for translating family journals, written in a disappearing regional dialect and the basis for Cora's research. However, indistinct coincidences begin to raise Cora's concern before she made one very startling discovery on one of her afternoon walks; the dead body of Natalie's long time groundskeeper.

Readers will love the formatting of this romantic suspense, for they are privy to a trickle of inside information throughout the narrative, which of course increases an investment into the characters' best interests. And there is quite a bit of interest going on, if you know what I mean, especially between the pretty professor and the protective sheriff. Predictably they have their work cut out for them, for the primary culprit is extremely cunning and getting more and more desperate as time begins to run out.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews.

BackCover Blurb:

A century-old mystery, a hidden treasure, and an isolated estate where danger lurks in every shadow.

For historical anthropologist Cara Tucker, the chance to spend a sabbatical semester on a remote country estate--with full access to its vast library and century-old journals--is a dream come true . . . until a series of strange incidents begins to turn her dream into a nightmare. Someone, it seems, does not want anyone diving into the past and unearthing old ghosts.

Sheriff Brad Adams has seen his share of suspicious activities during his law enforcement career, but what's happening at the isolated estate is out-of-pattern in his quiet, rural Missouri county. Beset by danger, Cara and Brad work together to try to untangle the clues.

But when the peril turns lethal, the situation takes on a new urgency, and their mission is clear: Find out who is behind the string of menacing incidents before the perpetrator strikes another deadly blow.  

The Queen of Romantic Suspense presents another page-turning, clean thriller in her Undaunted Courage series. Fans of Colleen Coble, Patricia Bradley, and Terri Blackstock will find this shadowy tale electrifying. 

Revell Publishing, September, 2025
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy OUT OF TIME at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THE SECRET INVESTIGATOR OF ASTOR STREET by Stephanie Morrill, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

 A PIPER SAIL MYSTERY #2 

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"So long as the box lid remains on, Clarence Dell is just a story I've been told. Once I take the lid off, he will become a person to me."

Piper Sail's reputation has preceded her. After successfully solving the mystery surrounding her best friend's death, she is slowly trying to regain some semblance of normal without denying the hold that grief still maintains on her heart. Adjusting to new circumstances at home, and enjoying her relationship with a handsome young police detective, Piper accepts a clerical position at the private girls school from which she just graduated, still trying to chart the best course for her future. Surprisingly her future manages to find her when a student pleads with Piper to prove that her brother's death was not suicide, but murder. Piper Sail, private investigator, has an awfully nice ring to it, doesn't it?

Dodging all kinds of questions and numerous hurdles, Piper puts her plans into place. Subterfuge comes easier that it should, with a certainty that danger will nip at her heels. In this case, the obvious seems to be the answer, and the answer is anything but obvious. Until it is.

Another rousing case of ingenuity at its very best! With its interesting characters and intriguing historical backdrop, Piper Sail fans will clamor for more stories exactly like this one!
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review

BackCover Blurb:
After high school graduation, Piper Sail isn’t quite sure what her future holds—until a possible murder case lands in her lap. Filled with both the glitz and glamor of high society and the dark mafia underbelly of 1920s Chicago, The Secret Investigator of Astor Street is perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Maureen Johnson.

Piper Sail knows what she wants: to become a detective. After all, she already solved the case of her missing best friend, and there’s no shortage of crime in 1920s Chicago. But for an eighteen-year-old society girl—even one who’s currently dating a police investigator—it simply isn’t done.

That is, until a girl asks her to dig into her brother’s recent death. The police ruled it a suicide, but she's convinced it was murder. And she wants Piper to help her prove it.

In this companion to The Lost Girl of Astor Street, Piper once again grabs her notebook and plunges into the underworld of mafia-controlled Chicago. But she’ll need all her wits and courage if she wants to become The Secret Investigator of Astor Street.

 

Blink Publishing, August, 2025

Available in digital ebook, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy THE SECRET INVESTIGATOR OF ASTOR STREET at Amazon

A CAROL FOR MRS. DICKENS by Rebecca Connolly, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:

A Carol for Mrs. Dickens by Rebecca Connolly is set in London 1851 at a house party hosted by Charles Dickens.
 

In all the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations and her husband’s enthusiasm for the holiday, Kate Dickens has lost her zeal for the sacred time of year. In the midst of a Christmas party, Kate is taken on a memory journey much like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol. Instead of ghosts, Kate is transported by her recollections to times around Christmases past that cause her to ponder the real reason for Christmas: the birth of the Savior. Her contemplations on the past create a new appreciation for the spirit of Christmas and re-awaken her giving heart. “Christmas felt most like Christmas when she was with family.”
 

I liked the addition of Victorian Christmas Traditions and History at the end.
 

This story is just right for the holiday season and spells out the true faith of Christmas.
*A complimentary copy was provided by Shadow Mountain Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.* 4.5 stars and a solid faith thread 

 

BackCover Blurb:
Catherine Dickens, wife of Charles Dickens, experiences her own Christmas Eve transformation as she magically travels through her cherished memories to rediscover her lost love of Christmas.

By 1851, all of London has fallen in love with A Christmas Carol, heralding Charles Dickens as “the man who invented Christmas.” But for his wife, Catherine, Christmas is less of a reason for celebration and more of a burden. Between hosting lavish parties, decorating her home, and caring for her eight children—with one more on the way—she feels more like Scrooge than herself this year.

But everything changes after a chance encounter with a kitchen cook, who reminds her that Christmas can be a time of miracles and magic, if she is willing to open her heart.

Armed with a magical sprig of holly, Kate embarks on three transformative journeys into her past, hoping to reconnect with the love she once felt for the holiday—and with herself. But can these memories be enough to reignite her Christmas spirit? Or are such miraculous transformations only meant for the characters in her husband’s beloved tales?

Inspired by real individuals, A Carol for Mrs. Dickens reminds us that the true spirit of the holiday lies in love, faith, and the joy of giving.

Catherine Dickens struggles with the burdens of Christmas despite her husband’s success with A Christmas Carol. A magical sprig of holly leads her on three journeys into her past, rekindling her faith and holiday spirit. This heartwarming tale celebrates love, faith, and the simple joys of Christmas. 

 

Shadow Mountain Publishing, 2025

Available in digital ebook, hardcover, and audiobook

Buy A CAROL FOR MRS. DICKENS at Amazon

THE WOMEN OF OAK RIDGE by Michelle Shocklee, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"No one wants to talk about those days. The past is the past. Best to leave it there."

Eager to begin research for her doctoral dissertation, Laurel Willett travels all the way from Boston, Massachusetts to Oak Ridge, Tennessee in order to spend a portion of the summer with her Aunt Mae. Mae had actually worked at the now famed Secret City, making Laurel hopeful that Mae would not only share her own recollections, but would connect her with others who had unknowingly helped manufacture a key component of the atomic bomb, enriched uranium. Instead of cooperation from her aunt, Laurel meets stiff resistance, almost to the point of traumatic stress.

Maebelle Willett was so young when she accepted government employment at Clinton Engineer Works, optimistic that her salary would help ease the financial duress facing her family back in Kentucky. Mae was paired with a wonderful roommate, caught on quickly to her job responsibilities, took her vow of confidentiality very seriously, and even met a kind young man. How quickly things changed when her life became unrecognizable, rife with decisions that she would regret for decades to come.

A fascinating blend of cause and effect spanning a generation, resulting in a culmination of tightly held secrets with long lasting effects on one innocent young woman whose desire to serve her country became twisted with the ill intentions of another. Equally as interesting was the history itself, the tale of a place no one even knew existed for a number of years. Thankfully this particular story has a happy ending and we would wish nothing less for these remarkable characters.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
In the hills of Tennessee, two women work at a Manhattan Project site during World War II and uncover truths that irrevocably change their lives in this captivating new story from award-winning Southern fiction author Michelle Shocklee.

1944. Maebelle Willett arrives in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, eager to begin her new government job and send money home to her impoverished family. She knows little about the work she will be doing, but she’s told it will help America win the war. Not all is what it seems, however. Though Oak Ridge employees are forbidden from discussing their jobs, Mae’s roommate begins sharing disturbing information, then disappears without a trace. Mae desperately attempts to find her but instead comes face-to-face with a life-altering revelation—one that comes at significant cost.

1979. Laurel Willett is a graduate student in Boston when she learns about the history of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where thousands unknowingly worked on the atomic bomb. Intrigued because she knows her Aunt Mae was employed there, Laurel decides to spend the summer with her aunt, hoping to add a family connection to her thesis research. But Mae adamantly refuses to talk about her time in the Secret City. Mae’s friends, however, offer to share their experiences, propelling Laurel on her path to uncovering the truth about a missing woman. As Laurel works to put the pieces together, the hidden pain and guilt Mae has tried so hard to bury comes to light . . . with potentially disastrous consequences.

-Standalone Southern historical fiction great for fans of Lisa Wingate, Donna Everhart, and Lynn Austin
-A compelling dual-timeline novel set during WWII and the 1970s about the weight of secrets and the power of forgiveness
-Includes discussion questions for book groups

Tyndale Fiction, September, 2025

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

Buy THE WOMEN OF OAKRIDGE at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

 

SE

LAST LIGHT OVER GALVESTON by Jennifer L. Wright, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Get ready for a front row seat into the depths of a hurricane when meteorology was in its infancy. To say that Jennifer Wright describes what it was like to be caught in a hurricane in Last Light Over Galveston is putting it much too tamely. She vividly depicts the event so that I felt I was right there with Kathleen in the midst of the disaster.

In this dual time novel, we see what led Kathleen to flee from her life of privilege, hop on a train and only stop when she was at the end of her money. She finds refuge with nuns at an orphanage but still grapples with where her life goes from there. She finds purpose in helping the orphans and befriends Matthew, a meteorologist helping to gather data and give weather reports. It was fascinating to learn about this topic and how it impacted the event in 1900.

While the hurricane is the main part of the story, the characters are what give it life. They show faith and resiliency in the face of death. “Sometimes God has to tear down all the distractions, all the lies in our lives in order for us to see the truth. To see that after everything else is gone, He is still there.”

This book is not to be missed.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale through NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread 

SEE REBECCA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Galveston, Texas. September 1900. Only months ago, Kathleen McDaniel returned from finishing school in Switzerland to her family home in New York’s Hudson Valley with a future of promise and privilege set before her. But one horrific event shattered her picturesque life. Now she has fled as far as the train line and a pocketful of money would take her, finding refuge at the St. Mary’s Orphan Asylum on Galveston Island, where she helps the nuns care for their young charges and prays her past will not find her. Despite her tenuous standing at the orphanage—and the grief and betrayal that drove her from home—Kathleen slowly begins to make friends. There is Emily, the novice nun she rooms with; Maggie, the tempestuous young girl who only bonds with Kathleen; and Matthew, a kind, handsome man recently employed by Isaac Cline at Galveston’s office of the US Weather Bureau.

Then in one fateful day, Kathleen’s fragile new life begins to crack as it becomes clear that she can’t run far enough to escape the reach of her former life. Meanwhile, as troubling news about a storm crossing the Gulf from Cuba swirls in the Weather Bureau offices, Matthew holds fast to Cline’s belief that no hurricane can touch Galveston. But as darkness falls on the island, Kathleen must gather her courage and reach for a strength beyond her own if she—and those she loves—are to survive.

-A stand-alone historical novel about the 1900 Galveston hurricane
-A gripping read inspired by true events
-Features themes of resilience, found family, and redemption
-Includes discussion questions perfect for book clubs 

Tyndale Fiction, August, 2025

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

Buy THE LAST LIGHT OVER GALVESTON at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

WINTER'S CHILL by Morgan L. Busse, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

THE NORDIC WARS Book #2

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"I dreamed of you."

After a series of miraculous events, Brighid has survived one brush with death only to find herself all alone and running for her life once more, attempting to navigate a formidable mountain range in the throes of winter. When an unexpected injury slows her down to the point of fever and delirium, Brighid is rescued by an unlikely ally, a monstrous bear. Deposited safely among the Bear Clan she receives the kind of attention that heals her body and soothes her soul; however, it's not long before her arrival among the clan raises many questions; the least of which is her undeniable ability to fight and her uncanny resemblance to someone they loved.

Kaeden, the newly anointed Truthsayer, decided to remain in the White City for the duration of the winter months, learning more about his role as a healer and his Word given power to speak truth. When called upon to move towards the northern border, he comes face to face with darkness, the likes of which only the power of light can defeat, but at what price? And the remarkable young fighter whom he had freed, who regularly visits his dreams, will he ever see her again?

What an impressive continuation of an equally impressive story, flooded with intense spiritual parallels and unmatched character types. The physical miles separating Brighid and Kaeden throughout much of this narrative curiously result in a bonding of sorts, both to their callings and to each other. In doing so, they uniquely represent humanity's innate struggle to seek light rather than darkness, and truth rather than lies. Personally, I am looking forward to what may come next
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

 

BackCover Blurb:

Fighter. Emissary. Long-Lost Daughter.

Brighid has one mission as she returns to the north: to warn her people of the oath that binds them. But the mountains are treacherous, and snow comes early, leaving her on death’s doorstep—until she has an unexpected encounter that not only reveals a secret about her past, but also brings new allies into her life.

Meanwhile, the healer Kaeden must come to terms with the awakening of his Eldaran power. With winter approaching and the war on hold, he ventures to the White City to uncover his heritage. As he walks the ancient halls of his people’s birthplace, he discovers not all adversaries are across the battle line. He must navigate political opponents while searching for a way to stop those of his kind who have turned to the darkness.

Yet even the bitterness of winter cannot keep Brighid and Kaeden apart. A connection has been forged between them, and their bond might be the one thing that could save the Nordic people and end the war. 

 

Enclave Publishing, August, 2025

Available in digital ebook, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy WINTER'S CHILL at Amazon, Christianbook .com 

ON A MIDNIGHT CLEAR Collection (Peterson, Beller, and Witemeyer), Reviewed and Hosted by Paula for #CelebrateLit #Giveaway

About the Book

Book: On a Midnight Clear: A 3-in-1 Christmas Novella Collection

Authors: Tracie Peterson, Misty M. Beller, Karen Witemeyer

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: February 5, 2025

Can they find a place to put their hearts and hope this Christmas?

Beloved authors Tracie Peterson, Misty M. Beller, and Karen Witemeyer come together with this festive novella collection inspired by the Nativity story and filled with faith, promise, and romance.

The Shepherd’s Heart by Tracie Peterson
On the frontier, widowed sheep rancher Vincent Duran seeks a mother for his two children. Angel Lewis agrees to marry him despite believing Vincent will never truly love her, but as they work together during a fierce winter storm, will their broken hearts finally find peace, joy, and love?

No Room at the Inn by Misty M. Beller
When Noah Bentwood and his charge are snowed in while traveling through the Rocky Mountains, he must stay in a barn since the stage inn has no vacant rooms. Then innkeeper Hope Palmer’s family heirloom disappears, and she and Noah work together to find it before Christmas. While the snowfall holds them captive, will unexpected feelings bloom?

A Star in the West by Karen Witemeyer
Friendly correspondence with Stella Barrington evolves into something more when Harvard mathematics professor Frank Stentz arrives in Waco, Texas. As the two experiment with extending their relationship beyond letters, an impossible dilemma arises between love and logic. Will her wise man be able to calculate a way for them to be together?

Rediscover the joy of Christmas with these faith-based historical romances from bestselling authors featuring sweet Western frontier stories with themes of marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and friends-to-more.

Click here to get your copy!

Paula's Review:
Three Christmasy novellas:

The Shepherd’s Heart by Tracie Peterson was a heartwarming story of grief and discovered love. Angel is a strong Christian who as a second wife gives love and stability after Vincent loses his wife to disease. Vincent is a shepherd who finds his angel who brings light during a snowstorm.

No Room at the Inn by Misty Beller was a cute story about a snowstorm at Christmas which strands passengers from a stage coach at the Inn run by siblings Hope and Martin. A lost item brings Noah closer to Hope and sparks a romance where both seek the will of God.

A Star in the West by Karen Witemeyer was my favorite of the three. I loved this nerdy, shy hero who became bold and the spinster wallflower heroine who fell in love through letters exchanged. Stella and Frank loved each other’s heart and put their faith into action on Christmas with a real baby in a manger.

Three worthwhile stories that showed love and faith in the Christmas season.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Celebrate Lit Tours via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*4 stars and a solid faith thread

About the Authors

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling author of more than 100 novels, with more than 6 million copies sold. Learn more at TraciePeterson.com.

USA Today bestselling author Misty M. Beller writes romantic mountain stories woven through with the truth of God’s love. Learn more at MistyMBeller.com.

Bestselling and award–winning author Karen Witemeyer pens historical romance with a flair for humor and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Learn more at KarenWitemeyer.com.

More from Misty

When Friends Join Forces…Magic Happens!

For me, teaming up with my dear friends Tracie Peterson and Karen Witemeyer has created pure Christmas magic!

Ever since I was young, Christmas stories have held a special place in my heart. There’s something truly enchanting about the season—the warmth, joy, and love that seem to fill the air. And when you combine that with the charm of a good story? It’s absolutely irresistible! Can you relate?

I’ve also long been a HUGE fan of Tracie Peterson and Karen Witemeyer. Their books have been favorites of mine for years, and I’ve read so many of them multiple times. The chance to join them on this Christmas novella collection, On a Midnight Clear, has been a dream come true in every way.

If you love Christmas books as much as I do, you won’t want to miss On a Midnight Clear. This collection is our holiday gift to you, our readers—stories filled with the wonder of the season, unforgettable characters, and the timeless message of love and hope.

We hope these novellas bring the same joy and warmth to your heart as they brought to ours while writing them.

So, curl up with your favorite blanket, grab a cup of cocoa, and let the magic of On a Midnight Clear transport you to a world of Christmas cheer.

Merry Christmas reading!

Misty

Blog Stops

Library’s Lady Kid Lit, September 30

Madi’s Musings, September 30

The Avid Reader, October 1

lakesidelivingsite, October 1

Simple Harvest Reads, October 1 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Melissa’s Bookshelf, October 2

Pens Pages & Pulses, October 2

Inkwell Inspirations, October 2

Devoted To Hope, October 3

Leslie’s Library Escape, October 3

By the Book, October 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 4

Devoted Steps, October 4

Texas Book-aholic, October 5

Maureen’s Musings, October 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 6

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 6

She Lives To Read, October 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 8

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 8

For Him and My Family, October 9

Blogging With Carol, October 9

Vicky Sluiter, October 10

Pause for Tales, October 10

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 10

Stories By Gina, October 11 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, October 11

Bizwings Blog, October 12

Life on Chickadee Lane, October 12

Cover Lover Book Review, October 12

Holly’s Book Corner, October 13

Blossoms and Blessings, October 13

The Bookish Pilgrim, October 13

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Tracie, Karen, and Misty are giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link to enter.