A LADY'S HANDBOOK OF GADGETS AND GUILE by Angela Bell, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

(A Daughters of Genius Society Novel): A Whimsical Steampunk Christian Historical Romance set in Victorian-Era ... Inspectors and Disability Representation

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“There are no spare parts in the Mighty Mechanic’s workshop. Every piece, every person, is made with a divine purpose.” 

This was a delightful and whimsical book that was chock full of literary references from Mary Poppins and Little Women to some of my favorite Christian Fiction authors of today. 

I have a pet peeve with the phrase “she released a breath she did not realize she was holding.” Imagine my surprise when Ms. Bell turned it on its head. “Margaret exhaled the breath she was well aware she had been holding.” Bravo! 

So much fun in this informative story that was based on real women who broke the mold in their own lifetime. 

Margaret was dealing with chronic pain that was aptly portrayed. “All pain matters in God’s eyes.” Hero Charles shows her compassion, and unconditional love. He is a caring, self sacrificing, upright Christian man. 

The romance was precious and played out within the mystery that Margret led her colleagues to investigate. 

A thoroughly enjoyable and special book that will go on my keeper shelf and be among my top reads for 2026.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews 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:

Margaret Kingsley's routine revolves around invention not investigation--until her ordered world springs a gasket.

London, England, 1895
Ambulatory wheelchair user Margaret Kingsley secretly crafts gadgets for the Daughters of Genius Society, a covert team of lady inspectors disguised as harmless bluestocking spinsters. While her fellow inspectors gallivant about London solving crimes, Margaret has been perfectly content assisting from the sidelines--until her expertise is needed to infiltrate the domain of London's most prolific inventor.

Charles Noble sacrificed his career as a musician to support his family after his father's stroke. Now he balances ledgers as a secretary by day and tends to his disabled father by night, but he can't pass up the chance to take a temporary job as event coordinator for a famous inventor commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. As strange occurrences cause Charles' event planning to collide with Margaret's case, the pair must unravel a plot of sabotage against the inventor's legacy while also investigating the sparks of attraction between them.  

Bethany House Publishing, July 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy A LADY'S HANDBOOK OF GADGETS AND GUILE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE SPY KEEPER OF MARSEILLE by Roseanna M. White, Reviewed by Paula, Rebecca, and Winnie #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“Music could have a more profound effect on people than a bullet.” 

“There was still joy, even in a world of sorrow. Still light, even in a world of darkness. Still music, even in a world of silence.” 

An entrancing story of espionage and courage set in occupied France in 1941. I love how music was woven into every aspect of this story. 

Zelie is a widow who is self-sacrificing and unique as the leader of The Alliance, a secret group of loyal Frenchmen getting information and passing it to MI 6. Marcel, a famous pianist who is set free from prison, joins the team to lead a youth orchestra. He is in the coveted position of passing information via code in the weekly orchestral broadcasts.  

This story is based on a real female spymaster and is packed with historical details. Ms. White has taken these fascinating facts and crafted a story of romance and intrigue. She put me right in the story as the characters faced danger and relied on their faith in God to lead them in their worthy endeavors. 

This author has proven once again that she is a star and shines at telling history in an engaging and inspiring way.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread

REBECCA'S REVIEW: 
"She was, without question, the most beautiful woman he'd ever set eyes on."

Concert pianist Marcel Laurent was at a loss for words in the presence of those intelligent blue eyes, while desperately trying to recall why he was in Paris to begin with. Recently freed from a German prisoner of war camp through an exchange, Marcel's companion had cleverly positioned him into the presence of a French resistance spy keeper and if he was not mistaken, the man had also volunteered Marcel to become an agent in her arts division. "What had he gotten himself into . . ."

Widowed with two young children, Zelie Bellerose took her role in the Alliance very seriously, working tirelessly to organize and expand covert activities throughout France, undermining German occupation at every level of society. Having someone embedded within the cultural arts and entertainment sector would be invaluable, especially if this new agent was capable of conducting a youth orchestra that would be traveling unhindered throughout the country; their weekly radio airtime would even allow encoded messages to be broadcast in real time. It seemed Marcel Laurent, a well-known musician already, would be perfect for the assignment. Neither expected there to be so much more to their story.

What an outstanding symphony of perfectly composed characters who faithfully live their lives under inconceivable danger and duress. Layered with incredible finesse, each plot thread strengthens the other, while ultimately yielding to the purposes and plans of the greatest Composer to whom Zelie and Marcel prayerfully seek to serve on earth as it is in heaven.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“We’re only ragtag, ordinary people doing what we can to help. Who better to lead us than a mother with an addiction to adventure?”

Set in France during World War II, The Spy Keeper of Marseille stars Zelie Bellerose as she leads an intelligence operation for the French Resistance. The widowed mother of two young children hopes to make a better future for her children and the people of France. Concert pianist Marcel Laurent joins the Resistance by conducting a youth orchestra, gleaning information, and sending coded messages over the radio. When Zelie finds herself in charge of the operation, she works with Marcel and others to get messages out. An already dangerous situation gets even more dangerous with betrayals and many twists and turns. I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Zelie and Marcel shift and change during the story.

“Why did people tear each other apart just because they disagreed about the best way to achieve a good life? Why did humanity always resort to violence, terror, oppression to make themselves feel more powerful? Why did they seek power for that matter, instead of strength?”

With plenty of action, suspense, danger, and intrigue, this tale also sports a dose of romance and a fantastic helping of history. Roseanna M. White’s stories are always well-researched, creative, and capture my interest. I enjoyed the author’s notes at the end, indicating that the book was based on actual activities during the war. It was fascinating to learn about this slice of history while reading an entertaining tale. This book is very well-written and absorbing, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

 BackCover Blurb:
In occupied France, a woman becomes a spy for the Resistance and rises to lead the largest intelligence operation in the country in this propulsive new World War II historical novel by bestselling author Roseanna M. White.

Marseille, France, 1941. Zelie Bellerose never fit the mold of an army officer's wife. She was too passionate in her convictions, too indifferent to societal expectations. After her husband is killed in the war, Zelie focuses on securing a brighter future for her children, hoping to help free her country from the Nazi regime by joining the Resistance. She is soon one of the most trusted operatives in Alliance, and when their leader is imprisoned, she takes command, hiding her identity from all but a few. With enemies closing in, Zelie must earn the trust of her network and prove herself to those who doubt a woman's place at the helm of France's largest spy ring.

Marcel Laurent was a renowned concert pianist before joining the French army and being sent to a POW camp. Freed in a prisoner exchange by a wealthy businessman with ties to the Resistance, Marcel agrees to spy for Alliance by conducting a youth orchestra, gathering intelligence from patrons who are loose-lipped Nazi sympathizers. Marcel's weekly radio broadcasts introducing the orchestra's performances give him the perfect cover to send coded messages over the airwaves.

As Zelie and Marcel grow closer through their shared love of music, she begins to rely on him. But betrayal from within Alliance puts everything they've fought for at risk. When a double agent infiltrates their ranks and the two are captured, their bond faces its greatest test . . . and any misstep could jeopardize not only Alliance but the very outcome of the war.

-A thrilling, propulsive novel based on the real life of a female spy during World War II
-Perfect for fans of WWII historical fiction by Ariel Lawhon, Lynn Austin, Martha Hally Kelly, and Kristy Cambron
-A captivating romance featuring a strong female heroine and a musician hero
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs

Tyndale Fiction, July, 2026

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

Buy THE SPY KEEPER OF MARSEILLE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

SPIES, LIES, and ALIBIS by Natalie Walters, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Newsflash, 007 - I don't need rescuing. Not from coffee, produce or a charming billionaire."

Embedded deep into the world of powerful real estate moguls, independently contracted Cybil Langford is assigned to surveil one of the most ruthless crime bosses on the planet, Lorenzo Ramirez. And everything was going so well until she slipped into the toilet trying to retrieve what every spy wears, all black . . . and! . . . she comes face to face (in the dark) with her childhood nemesis-turned-crush, Ben Bradley, who is for some unknown reason calls himself Craig Miller, the name of her let's-forget-all-about-him-forever boyfriend. Ben is gong to ruin everything!

Cybil is going to ruin everything! F. B. I. Agent Ben Bradley is on the hunt to take down the criminal network responsible for the death of a federal agent. What he catches however, is the hem of a very lovely dress wrapped around a very lovely lady shooting darts out of her eyes as if she can tell Ben what to do without speaking a word. Actually, maybe she can.

What a fun story! The clever dialogue is superb and flies back and forth like tennis ball in a game where neither player knows the rules. Cybil and Ben have a past, and in spite of going years without seeing each other, this second chance rom-com with a heavy dose of crime-cute between two undercover agents, sizzles from beginning to end. In spite of getting a little lost at times with the details of the financial transactions, I loved the depth of emotions and hilarious antics that Ben and Cybil brought to the story. Readers who love humor infused suspense will be clamoring for more! 
* I purchased a copy and I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW: 

BackCover Blurb:
They were each other's first love. Now they might be each other's last hope. Perfect for fans of Ally Carter, Spies, Lies, and Alibis is an unputdownable binge-fest, full of laughs, heart, and mischief.

Cybil Langford has spent years hiding behind her polished, professional facade as the executive assistant to a powerful real estate mogul, where she's perfectly positioned to collect intel on her boss's criminal network. But when her mission leads her into the path of Lorenzo Ramirez--a ruthless crime boss with deadly plans--she'll need every ounce of cunning and charm to stay one step ahead.

Then he walks back into her life.

Ben Bradley is deep undercover for the FBI, living under an alias, as a financial advisor with a reputation for helping the wealthy and corrupt launder their money. His target? Lorenzo Ramirez, a dangerous crime boss with his hands in everything from smuggling to murder. But when a familiar face from his past suddenly reappears, things get . . . complicated.

The last time Cybil saw Ben, he was an annoying prankster--and her first crush. The last time Ben saw Cybil, she stole a piece of his heart. Neither expected to run into each other at a high-stakes fundraising gala where crime, corruption, and undercover agendas collide.

Forced to work dangerously close, neither knows the other's true agenda. Cybil sees the boy who once broke her heart, now a man whose motives are deeply suspect. Ben sees the woman he never got over but can't determine if she's an innocent caught in the crossfire or a willing accomplice. As they navigate a world of spies, lies, and fragile alibis, they must dismantle the walls around their hearts.

The intel is classified. The trust is fragile. And their covers are one lie away from blowing wide open.

Dive into a hilarious, fast-paced romantic suspense that balances danger with wit and charm. Early readers are loving the gripping twists, engaging humor, and clean, chemistry-filled romance that make Spies, Lies, and Alibis such a fun, page-turning ride. Grab your copy today for a story packed with intrigue, heart, and just the right amount of sass. 

Thomas Nelson, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, or audiobook:

Buy SPIES, LIES, AND ALIBIS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

STOLEN SECRETS by S. F. Baumgartner, Reviewed by Paula

(Mirror Estate Thrillers Book 7)

PAULA'S REVIEW:
This is the first book I have read by this author but it is seventh in the series and I should have read the others first. There were so many actors that it was hard for me to keep up. 

But it was an action-packed story with twists and turns and unresolved elements that will lead up to the next book. 

I found a few flaws in the text but this was an advanced copy and maybe they will be addressed in the editing. 

The story was intriguing and exciting and would be great for fans of spy games and complex plots.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by S. B. Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*3 stars and a slight faith thread.

BackCover Blurb

An adopted daughter. A vanished teenager. A secret that must stay hidden.

FBI Special Agent Charlie O'Rourke believed adopting Jamie Beth would keep her safe. But when her best friend vanishes during a school band rehearsal, Charlie discovers the threat isn't random.

As Jamie Beth desperately searches for answers about her best friend's disappearance, she has no idea she's next.
To save his daughter, Charlie must choose between protocol and survival.

Perfect for readers who love the layered conspiracies of Daniel Silva, the emotional stakes of NCIS, and the shadow-war tension of The Blacklist.

Grab your copy of Stolen Secrets today and dive into this edge-of-the-seat thriller! 

FB Publishing, June, 2026

Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon 

FREED BY THE FRONTIER by Sherry Shindelar, Denise Farnsworth, and Susan Craft, Reviewed by Paula

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Just the book to read if you want to experience what the colonists went through! Brush up on your history with Freed by the Frontier by Sherry Shindelar, Denise Farnsworth and Susan Craft.

I love historical fiction. This one was just the ticket with brave heroes and heroines who found themselves in dire circumstances but with the help of God, carved out a living in the wilderness. Each story was different but well written and gave the atmosphere of the colonial period. 

An appropriate thing to read as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our independence.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and an underlying faith thread 

BackCover Blurb:
Three remarkable women find themselves caught between two worlds on the American frontier. A captive of the Comanche must choose between escaping to white society or her growing feelings for a rising war chief in 1850s Texas. A Georgia judge’s daughter flees an unwanted betrothal during the War of 1812, only to be captured by Creek warriors but protected by a mysterious brave. And in 1754, an English lady traveling the Great Wagon Road to become a music teacher discovers her carefully planned future may not survive her attraction to a protective frontiersman.

From quaint civilized towns to treacherous mountain passes and wilderness villages, three couples navigate cultural divisions, overcome past wounds, and face deadly dangers to discover that love knows no boundaries. But as war clouds gather and ancient tribal alliances shift, will their newfound relationships survive the coming storm? Or will the clash of worlds tear them apart?

Three unforgettable romances prove that God's greatest blessings often come disguised as our greatest challenges, and that true love can bridge any divide. 

Wild Hearts Press, June, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, or audiobook:

Buy FREED BY THE FRONTIER at Amazon 

 

THE BACHELOR SPY by Pepper Basham, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula #ReleaseDay

 

A FREDDIE AND GRACE MYSTERY #5

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Somebody catch that blasted cat!"

"If Grace had thought turning Havensbrooke into a convalescent hospital in Frederick's absence a good idea, this moment may have caused her to question herself." Without her beloved Lord Astley by her side the responsibilities of caring for wounded soldiers, overseeing the medical staff, running a large household, praying constantly for the well-being of her husband, and chasing a runaway cat, Grace was veering far beyond her comfort zone and surely didn't need anything to go wrong. Like for instance, expensive estate items disappearing and a very curious break-in where nothing of value seemed to have been taken.

When their dear friend Stephen Blake shows up among the wounded, Grace immediately treats him as a guest rather than a patient. Curiously enough, the odd occurances around the estate seem to multiply following his arrival, prompting Grace's imagination and determination to work overtime, after all what was life without a good mystery? And wouldn't you know, she was exactly right!

Populated with multiple favorite characters and then some, this entertaining romantic mystery boasts spy networks, forced proximity (closets, of course!) a very capable butler, and a little girl who knows so much, along with surprises of a very personal nature and hard fought faith battles.

A joy to read and difficult to put down!

*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. I also purchased a copy of this book. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“Grace had just added a second mystery to her list. And this one involved a charming spy, a suspicious maid, and secrets that were practically begging to be uncovered. Why enjoy only one mystery when she could have two? How absolutely delightful.”

There is a mystery afoot at Hevensbrooke and maybe more than one. That is what Grace and cousin Stephen Blake aim to discover. After surviving the sinking of the Lusitania, Stephen arrives at Havensbrooke in search of a traitor known as Midnight Angel. But she could be one of several women serving at the mansion turned convalescent hospital, including Evie Montgomery, Stephen’s former colleague, who is disguised as a maid. “Mission: loving Evie Montgomery til death do us part. Which given his line of work, was always unpredictable.” 

The Bachelor Spy has all the things I love in a Freddie and Grace mystery: spies who are stealthy, hidden tunnels, swoony romance (look for that closet kiss) and the solid faith of the main characters undergirding it all. Along with clever banter and the quick quirky mind that is signature Grace, daughter Zahra returns, this time with an unruly cat and faithful Brandon the butler. One thing is sure, even with her tender heart, Grace is a force to be reckoned with. 

This book was a joy to read. I am so sorry to see these characters go, I will miss them. Maybe I will start the series over again!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Barbour Review Crew 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:
Spies Infiltrate Havensbooke Hall. . .and Another Mystery Adventure Begins

Stephen Blake's life goal is to protect people, especially those closest to him, but war in 1914 England doesn’t follow any rules. When Blake is informed that a noted German spy may have taken up residence at Havensbrooke Hall—his cousin Lord Astley’s estate, which is being used as a convalescent war hospital—he’s sent there to uncover the plot.

Lady Grace Astley has become a force to be reckoned with while Frederick is out on the war front. With Havensbrooke as a hospital, she’s shocked by the devastation the war is bringing home; but ever hopeful, she is determined to help these weary soldiers find some relief. However, not everything is as it seems inside Havensbrooke. Precious items soon start disappearing. . .and not just the kind that are worth a lot of money.

Through a case of mistaken identity, a comedy of errors, a kidnapping, and a race for time within the crumbling subterranean passageways beneath Havensbrooke, can Blake and Gracie work together to root out the criminals, thieves, and spies before time runs out? 

Barbour Publishing, July, 2026

Available in digital ebook, and paperback

Buy THE BACHELOR SPY at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

CHASE THE LIGHT by Suzanne Woods Fisher, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt

(National Parks Summers Book #2): Clean Contemporary Romance at Acadia National Park with Love Triangle, Mystery, Multi-Generational...

TRIXI'S REVIEW:
I think the author eloquently summed up her book in these last sentences at end of the story:

“The beauty of national parks isn’t just in their landscapes—it’s in their history, their stories, and the people who come before us. I hope this book inspires you not only to explore but also to listen, learn, and appreciate the rich heritage woven into the places we now cherish.”

This is what I love most about Chase the Light; it’s not only a story to get lost in for hours on end, but it also teaches the history and rich heritage of Acadia national park. For example, I have never heard of the Penobscot Native American tribe. We get glimpses of it through Wabanaki Dana—aka Naki—a policy maker and representative for his people. I enjoyed learning through his eyes! Then the treasure hunt thrilled me… hidden gold catches with puzzling notes pointing out where to find them. What an adventure that was for both Ranger Scout and Naki! And of course, the reader as you follow along. I wanted to learn about the centuries old mystery and solve it right along with our characters. Lastly but certainly not least, the breathtaking beauty of the national park itself. Suzanne Woods Fisher vividly describes the landscape, the feel of the air, the salt water as it hits your face and the majestic views from mountain tops… WOW! Just like the first book in this series, I have put Acadia National Park on my list of places to see in my lifetime. I can visually image how much more breathtaking it would be in person.

What I appreciate most is how the author naturally incorporates faith into the pages. It doesn’t feel forced and is refreshing to see it lived out in her characters. I loved catching up with Chief Ranger Tim Rivers, his now fifteen-year-old granddaughter Maisie Mitchell, her mom Thea Mitchell, and seasonal volunteer Frankie Franklin from the first book (Capture the Moment). It’s always fun to see how old friends are doing and meeting new ones along the way.

With that said, there’s also the romance to watch play out. Though I’m not a huge fan of love triangles, I think for me, the other aspects of the story overshadowed that and did not diminish my enjoyment of the story (I was rooting for one particular gentleman). There’s lots of plot twists that made me gasp in surprise and added to the depth, mystery and adventure of how well written this is. I really hope the author has more of these up her sleeve because I certainly got lost in the book in full enjoyment!! 

I would highly recommend reading the first book so you get to know the characters who appear in this one… though it certainly isn’t necessary! I’m just one of those readers who love to read each book in order no matter if they are stand-alone or not. If you love adventure, solving centuries old mysteries, traveling to new places, faith-filled stories and getting to know characters so real you feel you’ve plopped into the book right alongside them, you don’t want to miss this one or Capture the Moment… or the next, or the next and etc!! 

*Many thanks to Revell through Netgalley for a copy. I voluntarily reviewed this under no coercion or obligation to do so. * 

BackCover Blurb

She uncovered a piece of history--but can she make peace with her own?

When Acadia National Park ranger Scout Johnson discovers a weathered note near a remote lighthouse, she never imagines it will expose a century-old mystery. The cryptic message points to a forgotten shipwreck, a vanished treasure, and a lighthouse keeper's suspicious death. Seeking answers, Scout enlists Naki Dana, a thoughtful man whose Penobscot heritage provides crucial insights. As they venture deeper into Acadia's rugged wilderness, their unlikely partnership begins stirring feelings Scout didn't expect to find. But they aren't the only ones searching.

Chase Fletcher, a charming local journalist, sees this treasure hunt as his last opportunity to save his failing paper--and finds himself increasingly drawn to the ranger leading the search. With pressure mounting and loyalties tested, Scout must navigate a winding path between history and justice, truth and betrayal . . . and determine who--and what--deserves her trust.

Suzanne Woods Fisher weaves a contemporary romance filled with mystery, treasure hunting, and adventure as a park ranger uncovers a century-old shipwreck and dangerous secrets at Acadia National Park. Perfect for fans of mysteries and love triangles. 

Revell Publishing, Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:May, 2026

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

Buy CHASE THE  LIGHT at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE ESCAPE GAME by Gina Holder, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

A Deadly Game of Survival (The Game Masters Book 2)

REBECCA'S REVIEW
"Music can calm the spirit or awaken monsters. You choose."

Had it come down to this? Had a twenty year long search for a father who had simply disappeared paired small town resident Demi Kayne and virtual stranger Liam Shepherd together inside a house of horrors? It was unthinkable, and yet it was exactly where they found themselves, enclosed within the walls of the rumored to be haunted Ives Mansion.

Liam had arrived in Silver Falls, Minnesota searching for his twin sister Alexis, his life as a world traveler, spreading the Gospel as a missionary, had separated them for a short period of time and the few clues Alexis had left behind led him to this location. Striking up a friendly acquaintanceship with a local puzzle shop owner and two of her friends, Liam and Demi ended up on knocking on one of the many doors they would have to breach in order to survive.

While this book was filled with exhilarating suspense scenes( it makes one think that the author herself may be a puzzle genius), it was also a generous wealth of faith lessons, bravely sharing the salvation story while the characters themselves literally hung on for dear life. Moving forward from fears, both temporal and eternal, does eventually bring these two characters down the finish line . . . but, barely.

"It's never the wrong time to talk about Jesus . . . "
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW 

BackCover Blurb:
Twenty years ago, the world’s leading enigmatologist disappeared, leaving behind a cipher no one could solve… not without his journal.

Puzzle shop owner Demi Kayne has spent twenty years hoping her father would return home. When she discovers his hidden journal, she finally uncovers the clue she’s been waiting for—but it leads somewhere far more dangerous than she imagined.

Liam Shepherd, a missionary and escape-room enthusiast, is searching for answers of his own. His sister has vanished without a trace, and the trail of clues leads him straight to Demi—and the secrets hidden in her father’s journal.

Their search brings them to the eerie Ives Mansion, where its brilliant and reclusive owner has designed a deadly challenge. Once inside, Demi and Liam realize they’re no longer guests.

They’re players.

Trapped inside a twisted real-life mystery game, they must solve a series of lethal riddles before time runs out. Each puzzle brings them closer to the truth about Demi’s missing father and Liam’s sister —but also deeper into a carefully crafted game where the stakes are far higher than they're ready to face.

With the clock ticking and lives hanging in the balance, Demi and Liam must confront their fears, their pasts, and the faith that may be their only hope of escape.

In this gripping Christian suspense novel, every clue matters—and every mistake could be fatal.

Can Demi and Liam solve the final puzzle before the game ends…or will the escape room become their tomb?

Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, and Irene Hannon who enjoy puzzle-driven Christian suspense filled with danger, secrets, and faith under fire.

SCRIVENINGS PRESS, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook and paperback (soon)

Buy THE ESCAPE GAME at Amazon 

PROTECTING HONOR by Christy Barritt, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

 Book 4 of 6: Refuge Cove

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"You were choosing what mattered . . . That's what honor looks like."

When a resident of Refuge Cove disappears into the night after a close encounter with her violent husband, Max Kincaid offers his assistance to the local sheriff in the search to find her. His attention is already divided though, there's a lovely new vet in town, whose steady presence at the Cove's dog shelter during the birth of six new puppies has precipitated a spark of attraction, but after his recent break-up with another employee, the timing may not be right.

Veterinarian Hadley Chase loves her new home in Blue Ridge Hollow, but instead of thriving, her practice is experiencing what seems like a rash of targeted attacks. Her only consolation is how helpful Max Kincaid has been, she feels safe whenever Max is around and his commitment to finding out the truth is reassuring. When a seed of doubt about him is planted from an unknown source, Hadley is ready to give Max the benefit of the doubt, but tragically it may be too little, too late.

A thrilling new addition to the Refuge Cove series. 
*I purchased this book and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurb:

 She’s found the perfect place to start over. But someone doesn't want her here.

Veterinarian Hadley Chase moved to Blue Ridge Hollow looking for a fresh start. After the chaos of Atlanta, the quiet rhythm of a small mountain town—and her new clinic—feel like exactly what she needs. But she never expected danger to shadow her there.

Max Kincaid keeps his head down and his past where it belongs—behind him. He came to Refuge Cove to rebuild the honor he nearly lost, and working there suits him fine . . . until Hadley becomes the focus of escalating danger. When unsettling incidents turn into targeted threats, it becomes clear someone wants her gone.

Staying out of it would be smarter. Safer. But he's not willing to walk away.

Max will do whatever it takes to protect Hadley. Even if it means confronting the past he's spent years trying to outrun. Even if it means exposing a truth that could cost him everything—and her.

River Heights Publishing, April, 2026

Available in digital ebook, or paperback at Amazon

BEACH HOUSE RESCUE by Hope Toler Dougherty, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

Small Town Beach Read with Heart and Hope

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Wren and Pete own a beach house. Wren told Tessa she could stay there and renovate it. Pete told Wyatt he could stay there to recuperate from a broken foot. However, nobody told Tessa and Wyatt that the other would be there. Talk about awkward! To complicate things, Skylee, Wyatt’s teen sister shows up. 

Thrown into the role of bachelor dad, Wyatt is out of his element. Tessa is creative and artistic but needs to find her niche. The problem is, Wyatt cannot forget how his artistic mother did not take care of him as he was growing up. And he sees Skylee having an interest in art also. A little friction there… until Tessa and Wyatt start to be interested in eachother. 

The setting was beach perfect with sandy walks and shell collecting. The character development was sound, the faith element was subtle but solid.

This was a great summer, beachy read.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Scrivenings on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*4.5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Two strangers. One beach house. Zero plans to share it.

When Tessa Trask arrives at a coastal beach house for a quiet summer, the last thing she expects is to wake up to an intruder—and have to defend herself the best way she can. But Wyatt Henry isn’t a burglar. He’s just as surprised to find her there…and just as determined to stay.

With no proof of who belongs, Tessa and Wyatt are forced into an uneasy roommate arrangement. She’s a free-spirited artist searching for direction. He’s a disciplined former Army captain who prefers order over chaos. Keeping their distance should be simple—until a surprise visitor arrives and complicates their fragile truce.

Sun-soaked days and shared responsibilities soften their differences, and Tessa looks to a future shaped by faith instead of fear. But Wyatt’s past has taught him that trusting the wrong person comes at a cost he’s not willing to pay again.

As the lines between them blur, both must decide if they’re willing to cling to what feels safe—or trust God with what comes next.

Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Lisa Carter, and Becky Wade, Beach House Rescue is a clean Christian romance full of warmth, faith, and happily-ever-after hope.

Scrivenings Press, June, 2026

Available in digital ebook at Amazon

DON'T UPSTAGE THE BODY by Naomi Stephens, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula #ReleaseDay

A Witty British Historical Whodunnit and Manor House Murder Mystery Set in the 1950s

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Professional Mourners for Hire. Troupe of experienced thespians. Exceptionally discreet. Will dress smartly and can suit ourselves to the atmosphere of any funeral."

And that's exactly how Hippolyta Halfpenny, alias Ethel Jones, found herself in the bowels of the Montfort Manor with a dead body, except it wasn't the one who was just buried. Her family's unusual enterprise, posing as mourners for hire, had them pretending to know the deceased, a wealthy earl who lived as a virtual recluse towards the end of his days . . . thus, the need for hired mourners at his passing. Finding the undertaker minutes away from his expiration date in the library, coming face to face with the charming heir of the already deceased and fainting deadaway in the floor was most certainly not on her father's strict list of mourner's etiquette.

As fate would have it, torrential rain sequestered the small grouping of family and friends attending the post internment luncheon, forcing them to seek shelter in the Manor overnight. While local officials began the process of interviewing every person on the premises, Hippolyta's siblings rose to the occasion, demonstrating their theatric abilities, but the newly minted earl managed to intersect with Hippolyta at every turn. After all, it was his house now, and she was merely an imposter mourner who was determined to expose the person who had knocked off the undertaker.

What a clever than ever conundrum of quirks and clues, stirring up family secrets, unlikely chemistry and ulterior motives, leading towards the final destination; solving a murder! With authentic messaging, dramatic ingenuity, and an interesting backdrop, this story and the characters who play upon its stage form an alliance to make sure that every reader will enjoy all five acts until the final curtain falls! The end!
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book for the author and publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“Grief was clever. It catered to each of them in their own way, and perhaps that was what made it difficult to escape.”

 
Patriarch Herbert Halfpenny pondered what to do when he was grieving his wife. His solution was to recruit his family in the business of professional mourners, complete with assumed names and a set of rules to follow including: Don’t Upstage the Body.
 

This was an enjoyable who-done-it with an unexpected ending. It was so well written that it played as a movie in my head. I could not help but cast my favorite old time actors, Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn as the main characters. Or maybe Jimmy Stewart and Loretta Young. But not quite screwball comedy.
 

At the funeral of Lord Basil and caught in a storm at the estate of the wealthy Cavendishs, Hippolyta and her family are compelled to stay when an additional dead body is found. Hipployta (aka Ethel) and the rest of the Halfpennys have to pretend not to know each other while they try to figure out who poisoned the undertaker. Hippolyta has help, of course, in the person of Crispin Cavendish, the new Earl who does not want to be an Earl.
 

These characters grow on you and just add to the quirkiness and intrigue.
 

Altogether a top-knotch mystery reminiscent of a good Agatha Christie yarn with a supporting faith thread and a tender romance.
*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.*5 stars and an underlying faith thread

 

BackCover Blurb:

Rules for professional mourners:
· Plan your aliases well--no improvising.
· Wear proper mourning attire.
· Maintain discretion at all costs.
· Don't upstage the body.

Hippolyta Halfpenny and her family have mastered the business of bereavement. As professional mourners, they are so accomplished that even Lord Basil Monfort, the famous and wealthy recluse, engages the family's services for his own funeral. Tired of disguises and aliases, Hippolyta vows it will be her last performance. Then she discovers the undertaker's body during the wake and finds herself cast as an amateur sleuth in an increasingly unpredictable investigation. 

Soon rain washes away the roads, trapping the funeral party at Lord Monfort's estate--with an unidentified killer in their midst. Bound by her father's wishes to maintain their charade, Hippolyta navigates a web of secrets spanning decades. But sorting truth from deception proves even more difficult when Lord Montfort's charming yet perceptive heir suspects Hippolyta is not all she appears to be.

Concealing her family's true identities while unraveling secrets might be a role Hippolyta is hesitant to play, but with a murderer among them she must unmask the truth before the final curtain falls. 

With her Agatha Christie inspired voice, Naomi Stephens pens a 1950s manor house murder mystery set in England--perfect for book clubs and fans of cozy mysteries, amateur sleuths, Enola Holmes, Michelle Griep, Julie Klassen, and Anna Lee Huber.

 

Bethany House Publishers, June, 2026

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

BUY Don't Upstage the Body at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

PART OF YOUR WORLD by Karen Witemeyer, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas

Once Upon A Time in Texas Book Two

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“We stand together. Faith and family. Forever.”

What an entertaining retelling of The Little Mermaid story! Karen Witemeyer has done a beautiful job of adapting a classic tale into a different setting—Galveston, Texas in 1886. When Muriel Quinn rescues Zane Erickson, a down-to-earth son of wealthy parents, after a boating accident, she vanishes before he can learn her name. As Muriel becomes trapped in a blackmail scheme involving an under-handed matchmaker hired by Zane’s parents, she finds herself in a quandary.

I was immediately drawn to both Muriel and Zane. I liked that Zane wasn’t tied to his family’s wealth and prestige. He wanted to be an architect and earn his own way. I loved Muriel’s affection for her family members and her willingness to do anything to defend them. Themes of family, forgiveness, and faith add elements of inspiration to this story. The growth that Muriel goes through in learning about the consequences of her actions is also noteworthy and a good moral to the tale.  
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW 

BackCover Blurb:
She saved him from the sea. He awakened her heart. Now a villainous scheme threatens to destroy them both.

Seawater runs through Muriel Quinn’s veins—a fact that has long concerned her father, who desires his youngest daughter to abandon the waves and embrace the respectable life expected of a grown woman. Yet even when banished from her beloved sea, Muriel feels its pull upon her soul. Drawn to the shore, she witnesses a boating accident and dives in to save a man from drowning. As she brings him back from the brink of death, a dream stirs to life in her heart.

Despite his family's wealth and social standing, Zane Erickson pursues a career in architecture, having no interest in cementing a match with any of the bridal candidates his mother foists upon him. Until a mysterious beauty saves his life and vanishes before he can learn her name. Determined to find her, he is stunned when the matchmaker his mother hired arrives with the very woman who has haunted his dreams. But he soon learns there are darker forces than romance at work in this meeting.

Entangled in a blackmail scheme that grows more deceitful and dangerous by the day, Zane and Muriel must fight not only for their love, but for the lives of those they hold dear.

 

Hope and Light Publishing, June, 2026

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

Buy PART OF YOUR WORLD at Amazon 

 

SILENT MENACE by Angela Carlisle, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

THE SECRETS OF KINCAID series

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"I wish things were different."

Accountant Hailey Nieland is struggling to balance single motherhood with a demanding job following on the heels of her husband's death and the public scandal that followed him to the grave. As she begins to acquaint herself with a deceased colleague's client files, it becomes abundantly clear that something isn't adding up, leaving Hailey with a quandary of questions.

Security professional Peter Lewis becomes concerned when a woman working inside the building where he is employed finds her tires slashed and a threatening note on her windshield. His protective instincts signal that this is no ordinary prank, but Peter is barely acquainted with Hailey Nieland and is hesitant to intrude any further than necessary. As disturbing incidents against Hailey not only continue but escalate, Peter is pleased when she accepts his assistance, but neither is ready to acknowledge where the growing relationship may or may not advance. What possible motive could there be to ruin Hailey's life? That's the question.

True to its title, this book exhibits a quiet cadence, not really accelerating until mid-point through the narrative. It's then that the puzzle pieces begin to fall in and out of place and that prayers become a primary source of strength. An enjoyable read with solid characters and silent plot twists. 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

 

BackCover Blurb:
A vulnerable target. A mysterious discrepancy. An unforeseen love.

After the exposure of her deceased husband's criminal activity, CPA Hailey Nieland struggles to move on with life as a single mother raising a hearing-impaired toddler in a hostile small town. When she gains a major client, she hopes the extra income will be just what they need . . . until she begins finding anomalies in the accounts. 

No one should trust their life to a bodyguard who can't protect himself, much less his client. At least, that's what Peter Lewis believes after his failed mission. But leaving his former career behind is much harder than he expected--especially when someone begins targeting an accountant who works in the office building he's now responsible for. As threats against her escalate, Peter and Hailey must work together to overcome their fears and expose a complex cover-up before she becomes the next victim. 

Parable bestselling author Angela Carlisle delivers edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense featuring a single mother, a bodyguard seeking redemption, financial intrigue, and a small-town setting for readers who enjoy high stakes and nonstop action.

Bethany House, May, 2026

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

Buy SILENT MENACE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

 

THE LOST STORY OF VIA BELLE by Melanie Dobson, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Now all these years later, if Mrs. Belle could tell the story of her life what would she say?"

Aspiring screen writer Harper Rayne is forced to pivot when she loses her job in Los Angeles, inspiring a trip across the country towards the small Pennsylvania town where her mother grew up. House sitting for some family friends gives Harper's imagination an opportunity to percolate, discovering that she would love nothing better than to unravel a local mystery regarding the area's most famous resident, an author who wrote numerous best-selling novels for years only to vacate her beautiful property and disappear completely from the annuls of history. She soon discovers that answers are slow to emerge, the estate is held in a trust, and its guardian, Finn Sterling, is in no mood to cooperate.

Author Via Belle's world titled on its axis following the death of her beloved husband. For the first time in a long time, no words spilled effortlessly onto the page, causing her publisher great angst and her own confidence to waver. When someone new emerges onto the stage of her life, Via proceeds with caution, but apparently she wasn't careful enough, for the story that follows won't be told for decades to come.

What a lovely example of dual timelines in perfect sync with one another, allowing the main characters in the before and after to converge at just the right time and in just the right place. During full story immersion, readers will be severely tempted to plant flashing hazard signs along Via's path, but alas! God is writing His own story and it's far better than Via Belle or Harper Rayne could have inscribed on their own.

Remarkable characters, intriguing plot threads, and a satisfying conclusion that is nearly impossible to fully anticipate! 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

 

 SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

 

BackCover Blurb:
Searching for a story to adapt for film, an aspiring screenwriter becomes captivated by a bestselling classic novel and the mysterious disappearance of the woman who wrote it.

1940. Via Belle's sweet romance novels made readers believe in happily ever after. But Via's reality was much more complicated. While her first husband was alive, her creativity thrived in a beautiful stone estate situated above a pristine lake and moonflower garden. After his tragic death and a whirlwind second marriage shrouded in secrets, Via vanished from public life, leaving behind a shadow of scandal . . . and her final story.

2006. Screenwriter Harper Rayne is desperate for a breakthrough, if only she can find the right story to tell. But when she digs into the life of her late mother's favorite novelist, she never expects it to become personal. Drawn to the quaint Pennsylvania town where both her mother and Via once lived, Harper discovers more than a mystery to solve—she finds echoes of her own longing for love, healing, and home. As long-buried secrets come to light, Harper must decide if she'll protect the past or rewrite this particular ending.

-Described as a "powerhouse in dual-timeline Christian fiction" (Library Journal), Melanie Dobson delivers another rich, atmospheric novel about the legacy of sacrificial love and the redemptive power of truth.

-Standalone dual-timeline historical mystery filled with drama, faith, and intrigue
-Clean, suspenseful historical fiction, perfect for fans of Susan Meissner, Lisa Wingate, or Patti Callahan Henry

-Includes discussion questions for book groups

Tyndale Fiction, April, 2026

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

Buy THE LOST STORY OF VIA BELLE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

 

 

THE TARGETED by Cara Putman, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

Secrets to Keep Series #3

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Of course she knew that evil's presence didn't mean God wasn't God or that he wasn't good. But it sometimes made it hard to find him."

Having survived for so long feeling lost and alone in her fears and regrets, former gymnast Chloe Ainsworth finally works up the courage to solicit the help of a local legal clinic, deciding that she cannot move forward with her life until she resolves deeply traumatic experiences from her past. Law student Dare Shepherd listens carefully to her testimony, and agrees that the intimate personal information that Chloe has entrusted into his oversight needs to litigated, but if, as his supervisor insists, they need corroboration from additional sources in order to file a formal complaint, that poses a significant problem. Years have gone by and the witnesses were all minors at the time.

As if conjured up, the man from Chloe's nightmares arrives back in town after fourteen years of absence, and gains employment at the very gym where multiple young girls had been compromised. With a sense of urgency, Chloe and Dare seek every bit of evidence they can find, and what they uncover is extremely disturbing and inherently more dangerous than they ever imagined.

Navigating these case details combined with absorbing the emotional mine fields buried throughout this story necessitates a reader who not only admires amazing plot twists, but solemnly trusts the author to handle sensitive material in such a way that the end result brings solid assurance that God never means for us to feel alone, or forsaken, or forgotten.

"It didn't matter if people would leave her or let her down. God never would. He promised that, and his promises were true. Always." 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars

 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Can she protect her gym students before her past catches up?

When Chloe Ainsworth's older sister reappears after fourteen years, she brings with her the news that Chloe's abuser is back in town. Chloe is a coach at her childhood gym and fiercely protective of her young gymnasts. She won't allow them to suffer the way she did, but she's desperate for an ally—one who can help her make her case.

Law student Dare Shepherd works at the local legal clinic, where he meets Chloe and hears her out. He believes her case but can't get the clinic director on board. As he learns more about her story, he finds himself bound by a deepening personal care for Chloe.

They band together in search of answers, and suddenly the stakes skyrocket. It's clear they're onto something, but will they be able to find the answers before it's too late?

Kregel Publishing, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook,  or paperback at Amazon