BIRDS ON A WIRE by Katie Powner, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Why did a bird seem at home wherever it landed?"

Laura Gambler had no idea how monumental her family's decision to become foster parents would become. It changed everything. And the timing? Unbelievably complicated; Laura had just pulled her first grade son out of public school in order to homeschool Peter, her teen daughters were acting like . . . well, teenagers, and her fortieth birthday was looming on the horizon. Upon receiving the call, the Gamblers were immediately handed the responsibility of caring for a tiny baby boy whose parents had been drug users. Now, there would be even more schedules to keep up with and plenty of sleep deprivation.

Bri Marshall wanted her baby back. At first glance, the hurdles appeared insurmountable, but she and her boyfriend were taking life one tottery step at a time in order to establish residency, a steady income, and a safe home for their son. Would it be easy? Absolutely not! Would there be setbacks? Guaranteed. In the end, would it be possible? That remained to be seen.

What a remarkable story, providing readers with an authentic journey through the many unknowns of fostercare, heralding the courage that it requires to provide vulnerable little humans with shelter, unconditional love, patience and most importantly, family. Scripture encourages us to observe the birds as an example of faith not failure, may we take notice of how effortlessly they perch on a wire, totally contentment among community, even if it's not forever.

"The more you love him, the harder it will be for you. But the more you love him, the better it will be for him."
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 

SEE REVIEWS BY PAULA AND WINNIE 

BackCover Blurb:
Sometimes the people in our lives who come and go make all the difference

Eighteen-year-old Bri Marshall is determined to do whatever it takes to get her newborn son back after he's taken by CPS. But the chances of reunification with Providence are slim. Her drug-addicted boyfriend is the only reason she has a roof over her head. With no job, no car, and no family support, she's at rock bottom, hanging on to hope by a thread.

Laura Gambler, on the brink of turning forty, is managing new challenges with her own children when she's asked to take in Providence. She never could have imagined the chain of events her agreement to foster the baby would set in motion—or the carefully buried pain from her past it would drag back to the surface.

Both women wrestle with doubts about the future and their ability to parent Providence, even as their love for him grows stronger every day. As their lives become irrevocably intertwined, they face an impossible question: Who is the best mother for Providence?

Kregel Publishing, April, 2026

Available in digital ebook or paperback

Buy BIRDS ON  A WIRE at Amazon, or Baker Book House 

THE BOOKSHOP OF 99 DOORS by Jaime Jo Wright, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

A Dual Timeline Christian Gothic Mystery and Suspense Novel Set in a Small Town

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Life is a legacy you leave behind for the generations to come. Live it well. Live it fully. Live it honorably. Live your life in such a way that whatever is revealed later will offer hope and a future to those who discover it."

A property with a complicated legacy. A lovely home that served its community well, until murder and mayhem left it stained with rumors that its victims still roamed freely among its halls, traveling in and out of ninety-nine doors, excepting the others who firmly believed it was the hundredth door that served as their entrance. The door that no one could find.

Two women, living decades apart, graced the halls of Ambrose Fields. One was closer to the history than the other, but both were equally curious and determined to prevent the secrets of the residence from winning the war of superstition. This book is a story to that end.

After finishing this incredible narrative, readers may surmise that Minnie and Triss were searching for the living among the dead, while in reality others might suppose that the two women were searching for the dead among the living. In all reality they were both searching for the truth, who is not a pathway or a portal but a person, who most emphatically declares that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, a search that every soul must take and that this author so beautifully encases into a page-turner of a story.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurb:
The manor's rumored one-hundredth door may conceal secrets hidden as deep as the estate's bookshelves extend high . . . but the haunted past has a way of ensnaring curious souls.

In 1888, Minnie Tipton finds herself beset by the dark superstitions that envelop the Pennsylvania mansion her father bought. Convinced the vengeful spirit of a Civil War captain haunts the house and worried by her father's rapidly worsening illness, Minnie delves into the home's fraught past in an effort to bring him peace. Yet the lingering impact of the war and the gruesome tale of murder she uncovers only foster more fear and threaten to unravel Minnie's own sanity.

In the present day, Triss Bellamy eagerly steps into the role of bookshop manager in the mansion-turned-museum boasting ninety-nine doors. But Triss's dream job turns into a nightmare when havoc breaks loose with the arrival of her brother's team of self-proclaimed paranormal investigators. Their determination to find a rumored one-hundredth door--a dangerous portal to the madness long said to plague the mansion--results in calamity, leaving Triss no choice but to hunt down the truth or watch her brother slip forever beyond her reach.

An atmospheric dual-time Gothic suspense masterfully penned by acclaimed author Jaime Jo Wright with themes of a Civil War-era ghost, a possible hidden door, and unexplained mysteries at a historic mansion's bookshop with a troubled past.

Bethany House Publishing, April, 2026

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

Buy THE BOOKSHOP OF 99 DOORS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THESE EMPTY PLACES by Sarah Loudin Thomas, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:

Wow what an encouraging book!  Emotionally rich and captivating, this story just got better and better.
 

“It’s the hard things that do us the most good in the long run.”

 

Lena and Preston certainly knew hard, going from prosperity to poverty thanks to the stock market crash in 1930. They head to Lake Toxaway, North Carolina for a job. Lena connects with widow Claire Roth and finds a job as a personal assistant and Preston joins his brother at a mill run by John Bellamy. Things go wrong but Lena learns to believe in herself thanks to mentoring by Claire. Preston finds faith and forgiveness and a new direction. Dreams were shattered but: “Sometimes tears are the only thing that can irrigate the wounds of the heart.”
 

This was a heartfelt, beautiful story and was very believable with a redemptive thread that made it that much more relevant.
There was a second chance for husband and wife, Lena and Preston, and a later in life romance for Claire and John. A mysterious legend of a treasure that could change lives for better or worse or just fade into memories. “It’s a blessing when memories go soft. As the hard parts fade, the memories shift to feel like an old shirt. A little threadbare maybe, but so familiar against your heart, you can’t let them go.”
 

A satisfying read.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher 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

 

SEE REVIEWS BY WINNIE AND REBECCA

BackCover Blurb:
When their worlds are upended, two women brought together by their loss discover what truly matters most.

Claire Roth sacrificed love for a life of comfort on Lake Toxaway--until the dam broke, and the lake washed down the side of the mountain. Fourteen years later, she longs to see the lake restored to its former glory even as the country faces hard economic times on the eve of the Great Depression.

Socialite Lena Hawkins married her first love, who swept her off her feet after skyrocketing from rags to riches by speculating in the stock market. Now penniless and rejected by her family, Lena and her husband have arrived at Lake Toxaway for a fresh start. There, Lena forms an unexpected connection with Claire, who hires her to assist with the personal library Claire is building to provide jobs and education for their struggling North Carolina community. When Claire is given a second chance at love and Lena a tempting chance at a life of independence, both women must release the past to fill tomorrow with promise.

Sarah Loudin Thomas paints a rich Southern historical story of friendship, second-chance romance, and new beginnings set in small-town North Carolina on the eve of the Great Depression. This read is perfect for book clubs and fans of Patti Callahan and Lisa Wingate.

Bethany House Publishing, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THESE EMPTY PLACES at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

A BREWED AWAKENING by Pepper Basham, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

A hilarious, clean, enemies-to-lovers rom-com

PAULA'S REVIEW:
This was the cutest story that makes you feel good. 

Let the rivalry begin between Daphne Austen and Finn Dashwood. Not quite friends - definitely not enemies, as the war between Tea Thyme and the Green Dragon has Daphne and Finn vying for the coveted job of catering a celebrity wedding. 

Flirty, snarky and swoony from the first page, I could not wait to see the clever hashtag comments at the beginning of each chapter. The whole town seemed to catch the matchmaking bug. I loved the characters and their quest to be the best. The premise was cute and the setting one of my favorites: a small town in North Carolina. 

New resident Finn, a transplant from England, charms everyone-except Daphne. But she secretly cannot get enough of the Brit and his adorable daughter. Finn tells himself he needs to come across as caring instead of a shallow flirt in order to win her heart. He proves himself when danger comes calling. 

This excellent story had me turning pages. It was such fun recognizing all the Jane Austen references. With a subtle faith thread, and lots of humor, this was a clean read and a top notch story.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a subtle faith thread.

BackCover Blurb:
Daphne dreams of Mr. Darcy. Finn serves up pints and rock music. Can opposites attract when a tea shop princess meets her pub-owning rival? Perfect for fans of Courtney Walsh and Emma St. Clair.

In the charming mountain town of Wisteria, North Carolina, Daphne Austen clings to tradition like cream to a scone. She's built her life--and her late grandmother's tearoom, Tea Thyme--around all things English: delicate china, Jane Austen novels, and the comforting predictability of routine. The only thing threatening her perfectly ordered world? The loud, aggravatingly handsome Brit opening a pub next door.

After his ex-wife broke his heart and his business partner nearly destroyed his career, Finn Dashwood packed up his six-year-old daughter and left England behind. He's looking for a fresh start, and the last thing he needs is a fussy, tea-obsessed neighbor criticizing his every pint and playlist. It doesn't matter that she's ridiculously kind (to everyone else) and that his daughter is utterly fascinated by her. Finn's heart is not open to being broken again.

But disagreements turn into prank wars and then a competition when a high-profile wedding needs a last-minute caterer. The townsfolk are thrilled--Wisteria hasn't seen this much excitement since the county fair lost a goat.

When the wedding demands both sweet and savory fare, Daphne and Finn are forced to put down their swords and pick up their serving trays. Between burnt pastries, brewing tempers, trending hashtags (#SipsAndSpats, anyone?), and one very adorable little girl, rivalry soon gives way to reluctant friendship--and maybe something that feels suspiciously like chemistry.

Can a tea shop princess and a pub owner with a past mix their lives as seamlessly as clotted cream and jam . . . or will their differences keep them steeped in rivalry forever?

Fall headfirst into a romance that's as sweet as scones and as lively as a pub singalong. Early readers are raving about the laugh-out-loud humor, irresistible chemistry, and swoony, kisses-only romance that makes A Brewed Awakening impossible to put down. Grab your copy today and discover a charming enemies-to-lovers story brewed with heart, humor, and small-town magic.

Thomas Nelson Publishing, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook.

Buy A BREWED AWAKENING at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE ESCAPE GAME by Gina Holder, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

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

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Clever plotting and a diabolical villain makes this quite the intriguing story.

Escape room expert Liam is searching for his twin sister Alexis whose last known whereabouts is Silver Falls. Demi, who lives there, is also searching for someone: her dad who disappeared 20 years earlier and who she is unwilling to accept has died. Her journey leads to some inward reflection about her faith.

Liam and Demi end up in a whole mansion of escape rooms which at times reminded me of Indiana Jones. It certainly put them to the test with many intricate puzzles. It also tested their faith. 

This author is not shy about presenting the Gospel in clear language through her characters. It was very well done and was integral to the plot. The characters were flawed but come across as human and willing to fight for what they believe in and also to put others first.  

Come for the challenging puzzles, stay to see if romance plays a part.  I didn’t want to put this fascinating story down.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone. *5 stars and a strong faith thread.

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 

THESE EMPTY PLACES by Sarah Loudin Thomas, Reviewed by Rebecca and Winnie #ReleaseDay

A Southern Fiction Historical Novel About Second Chances

 Set in the Appalachian Mountains

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Sometimes love requires a grand gesture, but most of the time it requires patient persistence."

Claire Roth had already learned the lesson of patience, but newly married Lena Hawkins was barreling down the road of unexpected challenges at a high rate of speed. Lena and her husband Preston had gone from riches to rags almost overnight when Preston's speculative investments on the stock market had crashed along with much of the nation's economy. Lena's upper crust upbringing had not prepared her for poverty and her affluent parents refused to support the newlyweds, having discouraged the union from the beginning.

When Lena and Preston move to the Lake Toxaway area to live with Preston's brother and wife, Lena crosses paths with the widowed Claire Roth whose money and prestige had survived the economic downturn, and whose philanthropic heart sensed a kinship with her young neighbor, offering her a job and time spent with someone wiser to the ups and downs of a young marriage. Along the way Claire is offered a second chance at love, testing her resolve to put her own past to rest in order to embrace an entirely different kind of future.

What a wonderfully written story about two women at different stages of life whose experiences criss-cross the gamut of trials and triumphs, offering a poignant reminder that troubles breed strength.

"There's nothing like thinking you've lost everything you care about to make you willing to do whatever it takes to start again."
*I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book from the author and publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.4.5 stars

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
Talented author Sarah Loudin Thomas brings history to life in her new book, These Empty Places. Well-researched with a richly painted setting near Lake Toxaway in North Carolina, this story is built around the dam break that gutted the lake in 1916 and the Great Depression that occurred later. The characters are realistically flawed but engaging, and I enjoyed seeing them evolve, mature, and realize what is important in life.

The tale is centered around two ladies, Claire Roth who rejected the man she loved for a life of comfort by her beloved lake, and socialite Lena Hawkins who married the man she loved but ended up penniless when he lost everything speculating in the stock market. The two women’s lives converge when Lena and her husband move to Lake Toxaway for work. Through hardships, hard work, and life’s difficulties, they all become stronger and more compassionate.

Themes of forgiveness, hope, and becoming stronger through adversity make this story an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.  
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own. 

BackCover Blurb:
When their worlds are upended, two women brought together by their loss discover what truly matters most.

Claire Roth sacrificed love for a life of comfort on Lake Toxaway--until the dam broke, and the lake washed down the side of the mountain. Fourteen years later, she longs to see the lake restored to its former glory even as the country faces hard economic times on the eve of the Great Depression.

Socialite Lena Hawkins married her first love, who swept her off her feet after skyrocketing from rags to riches by speculating in the stock market. Now penniless and rejected by her family, Lena and her husband have arrived at Lake Toxaway for a fresh start. There, Lena forms an unexpected connection with Claire, who hires her to assist with the personal library Claire is building to provide jobs and education for their struggling North Carolina community. When Claire is given a second chance at love and Lena a tempting chance at a life of independence, both women must release the past to fill tomorrow with promise.

Sarah Loudin Thomas paints a rich Southern historical story of friendship, second-chance romance, and new beginnings set in small-town North Carolina on the eve of the Great Depression. This read is perfect for book clubs and fans of Patti Callahan and Lisa Wingate.

Bethany House Publishing, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THESE EMPTY PLACES at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

THE DESIGN OF PROVIDENCE: AN ANTHOLOGY CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250 YEARS, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

TEN AUTHORS: LYNNE TAGAWA, JAYNA BASS, AVELLINA BALESTRI, JOHN M. CUNNINGHAM Jr, TED LAMB, LYNN DEAN, SHANNON McNEAR, PATIENCE O'BRIEN, NATHAN STONE, RICHARD TUCKER

PAULA'S REVIEW:
This is a group of stories set from 1770 to 1785 during the American Revolution. It was chosen to be released in honor of the 250th Anniversary celebration of America.
 

These were diverse tales based on records of events and documents that shaped our nation. While they are fictional, they are well crafted with the purpose of showing both sides of the conflict and the bravery of those involved as well as their faith in God.
 

The stories help to awaken us to our heritage and caused me to be grateful for those who formed our country and fought for our freedom. This book showcases how God moved through and in the lives of our founding fathers. And pointed out that there were people of faith on both sides of the issues. 

 

I appreciate the research that went into this book and the variety of stories that were portrayed. All were well written and interesting to read. Perfect for the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
 

Recommended for those who enjoy this time period.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Blue Rock Press on behalf of one 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:
Before there was a United States, there was a dream forged in the crucible of revolution—and a steadfast belief that a divine hand was shaping the nation’s destiny. From the bloody snow of the Boston Massacre to the treacherous battlefields of the South, the path to liberty was fraught with peril, heartbreak, and impossible choices.

Intertwining fact and fiction, each story masterfully explores the personal cost of allegiance, the agony of families divided by war, and the quiet, persistent thread of faith that wove through it all.

Celebrate America's 250th birthday with this immersive, faith-filled journey into the soul of a nation's founding. 

 

Blue Rock Press, May, 2026

Available to buy in digital ebook and hardcover

at Amazon 

NOT PRECISELY MR. KNIGHTLEY by Carolyn Miller, Reviewed by Paula and Rebecca #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:

This was an enjoyable rom-com with lots of references to Emma by Jane Austen. 

A dating app, Dream Match, was thought up by Emma Jane Bennett and Jordan Knight, officially the firm of Woodhouse-Knightly as a nod to Jane Austen. It is meant to be a safe place for Christian singles to meet and possibly find love. 

Welcome to Australia and the atmosphere of Sydney and an appearance of a billionaire playboy Eric Churchill. Emma gets stars in her eyes as Eric wines and dines her. But is it for her or to take over her dating app? Best friend Jordan tries to get Emma to pray about investors and tread carefully. Things go awry. 

Many things reminded me of Emma and other tomes by Jane Austin including flighty Mrs. Bennett, sisters Olivia, Katie and Elinor and assistant Harriet. Nice references to Australian places and items- But I could do without the Vegemite. I have tasted it and am not a fan! 

Jordan must find a way to go from best friends to marriage prospect and it is a fun ride. 

I enjoyed the witty banter, the family connections, the spiritual struggles of the characters and the eventual happily ever after.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Barbour 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

REBECCA'S REVIEW:

" . . . she'd always had a thing for the finer things in life, something that was shown by her wannabe-designer clothes and focus on money, money, money . . . "

Emma-Jane Bennett had worked really hard for a long time, designing a highly successful dating app, while excelling at her full time position with Donwell Enterprises. Now was the time to see if the little bird could fly out of the nest and scale up "Dream Match" into a global product, meaning she and her business partner (and best friend!) Jordan Knight needed investors.

In theory, dropping her day job and schmoozing with the rich and famous had seemed like a good idea until Jordan starting reminding her of the true source of security and it wasn't listed on the stock market. Brushing off Jordan's caution, and not wanting to be reminded that her heart was dangerously close to being handed off to the wrong man, Emma-Jane convinces herself that the creator of a dating app certainly knows who the right man should be, right?

What kept me from loving this book as much as I wanted to was the setting, it continually muffled the narrative; details about travel modes, parks, shorelines, restaurants and other forms of entertainment took time away from quality conversations between characters who were battling for relationship and purpose, burying core elements of the story under a veritable travelogue.

That being said, the author did a wonderful job of bringing to light the challenges of building and maintaining a firm foundation of faith in a world, particularly the business world, that cares more about appearance and prestige than truth and integrity. Bravo to Emma-Jane and Jordan for finding their way!
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book for Barbour Publishing, the opinions stated above are entirely my own. 3.5 stars

BackCover Blurb:

Can the Matchmaker Find True Love?
 
Emma-Jane (EJ) Bennett and Jordan Knight are longtime best friends who co-designed the immensely successful dating app, Dream Match. Success starts to go to EJ’s head when she gets caught up in the famous and money-hungry social circles and starts dating the son of a TV mogul. But Jordan’s feelings have grown from friendship to more. He determines to protect her by exposing Eric Churchill for the two-timer he is, finally agreeing to attend a function with her at the Sydney Opera House. But his best intentions go awry when EJ is embarrassed and runs for the security of home, small-town roots, and The Silver Teapot Café, feeling like Jane Austen’s chastised Emma—only without her Mr. Knightley.
 
Don’t miss book 1 in The Silver Teapot series, Not Exactly Mr. Darcy

Barbour Fiction, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, or hardcover

Buy NOT PRECISELY MR. KNIGHTLY at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE RANCHER'S UNLIKELY MATCH by Jill Kemerer, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas

 An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (Tumbleweed, Texas Book 4)

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
Jill Kemerer’s charming addition to the Tumbleweed Texas collaborative series stars grumpy, overextended, widowed rancher and father Ben Wright and his new neighbor, Jessica Howard, who has inherited a goat farm from her aunt. Jessica is hoping for a new start with the farm but finds she’s also inherited a big debt. As she tries to find ways to pay the debt so she can keep the farm, while also keeping her goats from escaping and eating the neighbor’s garden, she ends up watching Ben’s three adorable children and involving them in her activities. I enjoyed seeing Jessica’s interaction with the children and the developing relationship between her and Ben.

With themes of found family, community support, faith, and hope, this tale is delightful and entertaining. I loved the small-town camaraderie and support for one another. The other books in this series are written by other authors but revolve around the same Tumbleweed town. 
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

BackCover Blurb:
Could her fresh start…
…be the answer to his prayers?

Widowed rancher Ben Wright doesn’t need more complications, especially not runaway goats from the pretty new farmer next door, Jessica Howard. With three kids, a farm and a baseball team to coach, he’s earned his gruff reputation. Jessica left a draining social work career in Houston, hoping for a fresh start and to save her inherited farm from debt—the last thing she needs is a grumpy neighbor. But despite their rocky start, Jessica begins to see past his tough exterior as she spends time with his kids. When old hurts arise, Ben and Jessica must decide…is a future together worth fighting for?

From Love Inspired Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Tumbleweed, Texas
Book 1: The Coach's Secret Child by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 2: The Pastor's Easter Prayer by Tina Radcliffe
Book 3: The Police Chief's Instant Family by Mindy Obenhaus
Book 4: The Rancher's Unlikely Match by Jill Kemerer

Love Inspired, April, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback

Buy THE RANCHER'S UNLIKELY MATCH at Amazon , or Christianbook

A GIFT IN TIME by Shaen Layle, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:
A charming cozy mystery about a music box with historical significance. Could it have been owned by Thomas Edison?
Sarah has acquired the music box for her new shop Heavenly Presents. The quest for answers took many detours but Sarah needs to prove the journey the box has traveled to get to her shop. Several people want the box and will not take no or wait for an answer. 

I liked the way the author crafts her characters and writes twists and turns into an intriguing story. She gives Sarah good friends, neighbors and family but throws in an obstacle or two to keep it interesting. Another nice touch is the addition of a story told in 1862 by the original owner of the music box. It was thought provoking to see how the clues came together and the suspects were ruled out. 

An overall theme was that God was working in the character’s lives and wanted what was best for them. No matter what the present circumstances, the eventual outcome was preferable. 

Another great cozy when you want something light to read.
* A complimentary print copy of this book was provided by Guideposts 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:
A Gift in Time is book 1 in Guideposts’ Gift Shop Mysteries fiction series.

It’s opening day of Sarah Morgan’s gifts and curiosities shop, Heavenly Presents. Not only are her family and friends there to support her new business, but a local television crew is on-site to interview her. Sarah decides her latest acquisition, an antique music box that supposedly belonged to Thomas Edison, is the perfect item to show off on television. They’ve only heard a few notes in the strange melody when an onlooker claims her great-grandmother used to play that same tune on the piano but was secretive about its origins.

When Sarah discovers a hidden drawer on the box that requires a key to open, she is determined to unlock the box’s secrets.

Meanwhile, someone in the Port Huron community is also determined…to see Sarah’s business fail.

Can Sarah find out who is behind the troublemaking, or will she be forced to close the doors on her dream forever?

About the Gift Shop Mysteries Series

Every gift tells a story…and some bring mysteries!

Get ready for a faith-filled mystery like no other! The excitement begins when Sarah Morgan returns to her picturesque hometown along the shore of Lake Huron to open a gift and curiosities shop, which she calls Heavenly Presents. As she reconnects with family and friends and grows in her faith, Sarah feels her shop becoming more than just a place to browse or buy. It’s turning into a cozy haven, where tucked among the handmade keepsakes and one-of-a-kind wonders are clues to long-buried secrets and surprising truths. Sarah soon discovers that solving small-town mysteries might just be the most meaningful gift she can offer.

Why You’ll Love the Gift Shop Mysteries Series

If you’re looking for a mystery series that’s equal parts heartwarming and intriguing, Gift Shop Mysteries is your perfect next read. Set in a charming lakeside town with a faith-filled shop owner as your guide, each book offers:Captivating mysteries that keep you guessing—but never keep you up at night
A cast of relatable, endearing characters who feel like old friends
A cozy, small-town atmosphere you’ll want to escape to again and again
Faith-filled encouragement and hope, gently woven through every story
Themes of redemption, reconnection, and second chances—with God, family, and community

Plus, each book includes delightful extras:A recipe inspired by the story
A personal letter from the author
“Behind the Counter” insights into the real-life history or inspiration
Book club-ready discussion questions

Whether you’re drawn to uplifting mysteries, enjoy uncovering meaningful secrets, or simply want a soul-soothing read with depth, heart, and a touch of suspense—this series was made for you.

GUIDEPOSTS Publishing, April, 2026

Available in digital ebook and paperback. Buy A GIFT IN TIME at Amazon, or Christianbook

THE LIFE SHE FORGOT by Joanna Davidson Politano, Reviewed by Winnie and Paula #ReleaseDay

An Edwardian Dual-Timeline Historical Mystery set on the Cornish Coast 

 (The House on the Edge of the Cliff Book 1)

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“Some stories are lost to time. Some are rewritten. And some—broken, imperfect, and true—continue to echo, even in minds that have forgotten the details.”

I never miss a chance to read a new Joanna Davidson Politano book. Her stories are always extremely creative with multi-layered, complex characters and brilliantly composed plots. The twists and turns always keep me guessing and turning pages to the end.

The Life She Forgot is a perfect example of Politano’s writing genius. In 1913 Cornwall, Merryn has forgotten everything about her former life. When she impulsively marries AJ Winthrop, a man she has only known a very short time, they travel the Cornish shore trying to resurrect her memories. As she begins to remember another man, their relationship is threatened.

Another timeline in the story features William in 1947, broken by the war and estranged from his wife, as he tries to solve the mystery of a portrait of a beautiful woman. I was amazed at the way the author wove these two timelines together to complete this exquisite and captivating tale.

“Love is. . . two broken people who find one another and somehow embrace the broken pieces.” 

Filled with mystery, intrigue, and threads of forgiveness, love, faith, and hope, this story kept me entertained and guessing through all the plot twists. I’m anxiously waiting to see what tale Politano has dreamed up next. 
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

 
PAULA'S REVIEW:
In 1913 Merryn has lost her memory but not her tenacity. She is slowly regaining snippets of events but they haunt her because they promise something that is just out of her reach.
 

This is a superb, emotional journey as Merryn searches the coast of Cornwall with her new husband Ansel. But is he her only husband? Her memories hint at another wedding. A.J. (Ansel) is a complex character who seems clearly in love with his wife. So much mystery and a present threat when Merryn is given custody of Cecil and his inheritance when Lady St. Laurent dies. Her daughter has other ideas.
 

I highlighted so many relevant, haunting passages: “We think of memories as a log book, but they are more than that. They give us a framework through which to view our present.”
 

In the 1947 era of this dual time story, William Thatcher has returned from war a broken man who feels unworthy. A painting he finds puts him on a quest to find the artist and subject of the artwork. This connects the two timelines in a unique way,
It was enchanting to discover the connections between the characters and mesmerizing to read about their journeys.
 

There were several great allusions to Biblical passages, the foremost being:  

“Love is invaluable because of what it has cost someone.”
“Never build your house on sand when rock is available to you. Never build it on anything that can move. Because eventually, it will.”
This author never ceases to amaze me with her heartfelt voice, beautiful words and meaningful messages.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*Beyond 5 stars and a solid faith thread

 
BackCover Blurb:
He promised to help her reclaim the memories she lost—no matter what they found.

Until she remembered another man.

Cornwall, 1913
For three years, Merryn has lived without a past—no family, no history, no home that's truly hers.

When the threat of being locked away for her own “protection” looms, she takes a desperate chance on AJ Winthrop—a warmhearted, whimsical stranger who offers a hasty marriage of convenience and a promise: he will take her back to Cornwall and help her uncover the truth about who she once was.

But along the wild Cornish coast, the memories that begin to surface are not the ones she expects.

Another man.

Another wedding.

A life that may already be hers.

When a hidden painting reveals Merryn’s own face staring back from another life, the fragile life she’s begun to build with AJ begins to unravel. Because the truth waiting in her past could destroy the love she’s only just found.

Cornwall, 1947
Haunted by the war and estranged from the wife he still loves, William Crawford is determined to save their family home for her—even if it means selling the mysterious portrait of Merryn Dunn tucked away in his cottage. But the secrets hidden within the painting threaten to overturn everything he believes…or lead him toward a redemption he never expected.

Decades apart, two lives are bound by a single portrait—and the truth it refuses to keep hidden. This sweeping dual-timeline historical mystery weaves together lost memories, buried truths, and a love story that refuses to fade.

Perfect for fans of Mimi Matthews, Susanna Kearsley, and Kate Morton.

Grafted Page Press, April, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THE LIFE SHE FORGOT at Amazon

HIDING FROM DANGER by Addie Ellis, Reviewed by Kim

KIM'S REVIEW:
Hunted in the Mountains by Addie Ellis was one of my favorite reads of 2024, so when I saw Hiding from Danger, I knew I had to pick it up.

This story kicks off with a bang and doesn’t let up until the exciting finale. Rick, Natalie, and her niece are on the run, hiding from a killer. The tension really never eases in this story! Just when you think you can catch your breath, another unexpected event occurs. I found myself suspecting so many different characters along the way. Ms. Ellis does a great job of dropping breadcrumbs throughout the story.

I really liked Rick and the selfless way he helped Natalie and Shelly. I also enjoyed how their relationship developed; it felt natural and believable. The addition of the epilogue was a great touch and wrapped things up perfectly.

I can’t wait for Addie Ellis’s next story!
*I purchased this copy. The faith thread is light. 4.5 stars!

BackCover Blurb:
Keeping out of sight
is the only way to survive.

When her young niece witnesses an attempted murder in the dead of night, Natalie Owens knows the killer will do anything to silence her for good. Fleeing through the woods leads them into the path of former Special Forces Officer Rick Barrett, who is determined to protect the frightened woman and child. When the attempts on their lives escalate and the body count rises, it soon becomes clear that the threat is closer than they imagined. With a relentless killer on their heels, can Rick and Natalie outsmart their pursuer before he achieves his sinister goal? 

Love Inspired Suspense, December, 2025

Available in digital ebook or paperback 

Buy HIDING FROM DANGER at Amazon, or Christianbook

FAITHFUL OF HEART by Tracie Peterson, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

(A Minnesota Legacy Book #1): 

A Second Chance Christian Historical Romance set in 1800s Minnesota

PAULA'S REVIEW:
With engaging characters and a faith-filled plot, this story was a winner for me.

Judith Stanford was a widow with a heart for hurting people after the Civil War took her husband. She meets Dr. Roman Turner at a lecture in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Roman is from Minneapolis, Minnesota where he tends his patients and is also seeking to help the ones who need it most. 

Years later, Judith is summoned by her estranged grandfather to Minneapolis. In failing health, he wants to be sure she is worthy of inheriting his wealth. But someone else is trying to orchestrate her life. 

Ms. Peterson weaves a beautiful story of enduring faith, and a slowly building romance with a bit of intrigue and difficult family relationships thrown in. All against the backdrop of interesting history of the times. 

Fans of Christian Historical Fiction will not want to miss this book.
*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 solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Can forgiveness and love overcome a tattered legacy?

When dedicated philanthropist Judith Stanford receives a summons from her estranged grandfather ordering her to come to Minneapolis to prove herself worthy of his inheritance, she is hesitant but can't ignore the potential of her grandfather's fortune to benefit her causes. And the only man to interest her since her husband's death lives in Minneapolis, leaving her hoping their paths will cross.

Roman Turner, a local physician with a heart for the poor, harbors a grudge against Judith's grandfather. Years ago, his unethical actions ruined Roman's family forever. When Roman meets Judith again, he is shocked to learn the woman he's thought about all these years is related to the one man he can't forgive.

As Judith tries to overcome the complicated history between the two families and disentangle her grandfather's tainted legacy, she begins to form a plan for reparation. But when it becomes clear someone else has nefarious intentions for the money, Judith's dreams of a new legacy are at risk.

From acclaimed author Tracie Peterson comes a stirring historical romance series opener set in 1870 Minneapolis, weaving themes of family legacy, faith, and redemption for fans of Janette Oke and Lauraine Snelling.

Bethany House Publishing, March, 2026

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

Buy FAITHFUL OF HEART at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

WHEN JUSTICE COMES by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"The only way she could end the vendetta with Michael was to find out more about the way it had started."

To say that Savannah Webster's family history was a convoluted disarray of turmoil was an understatement. Now it seemed that the tentacles of greed and revenge were targeting her ten year old nephew, whose murdered mother had clearly stated that Savannah should raise Simon if something should happen to her, which meant that Simon would live with both his Savannah and his Uncle Hez Webster after the two remarried in just a matter of months. Simon's substantial trust fund shone as a beacon to those, including his birth father and grandfathers, who cared nothing about Simon and more about fame and fortune.

However, the situation went deeper than that. Much, much deeper, thrusting Savannah and Hez into unprovoked turmoil over Simon's custody and right back into the bulls-eye of a criminal enterprise that they had initially identified, cornered and contained.

One of the many things that I loved about this story was that it was not only an exceptionally fine series conclusion, but it also revealed how tightly all three books had been woven together into one fascinating narrative, broken up into episodes that were destined for a grand finale, and this book was exactly that! 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review 4.5 stars

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb: 
USA TODAY bestselling romantic suspense author Colleen Coble and Rick Acker deliver the final book in their beloved Tupelo Grove series.

Hez and Savannah Webster have survived storms that would bury others without a love as strong as theirs--but can they withstand the final battle in the deadly Legare-Willard feud that threatens to sweep away everything they've fought for?

Hezekiah "Hez" Webster and his fiancée, Savannah, stand on the brink of a new life, but their dreams are haunted by specters of the past. Just as they're getting ready to adopt her nephew, two other petitioners also file for custody--both of whom only want Simon for their own gains.

Between the financial company that Hez outmaneuvered to save the university from ruin and the bad blood from the head of the Willard family, it's hard to say who wants them out of the way more. Hez and Savannah's quest for justice leads them through a labyrinth of family law, where loyalties are tested and trust is a dangerous luxury when every decision could be their last.

With the clock ticking, Hez and Savannah must confront the ghosts of their past and their deepest fears to secure a future for Simon. But with every secret revealed, the stakes grow higher. Can they build the family they've always dreamed of, or will their enemies succeed in tearing them apart forever?

The Tupelo Grove series reaches its breathtaking conclusion as an enemy's agenda for revenge runs darker than swamp water and justice remains as precarious as quicksand in this heart-pounding narrative that underscores the power of redemption and forgiveness.

Colleen Coble and Rick Acker's When Justice Comes is gripping suspense with closed-door, second-chance romance.

 

Thomas Nelson Publishing, March, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audibook

BUY When Justice Comes at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

 

DEATH WISH by JJ. Samie Myles, Reviewed by Kim #ReleaseDay

Task Force SEAR Book Three: Christian Romantic Suspense

KIM'S REVIEW:
Every time I think JJ Samie Myles can’t possibly top herself, she does. Again. I absolutely loved this book. Ledger is everything you want in a hero. He is strong, loyal, completely swoon-worthy, and full of unending faith. He and Rox together are pure perfection.

I’ve loved Ariel and Ledger since book one, and getting more of their relationship, history, and sibling dynamic was everything I hoped for. And as always, the faith thread was woven in so beautifully. It is thought-provoking, meaningful, and quote-worthy. I highlighted so much.

The team is one of my favorite parts of this series. The camaraderie, the banter, and the humor balance the intense action perfectly. The pacing is spot on, the suspense kept me glued to the pages, and the characters are so well written you can’t help but root for every single one of them.

And yes… I cried. There are some truly emotional moments in this book, and they hit hard because the writing is so powerful. You don’t just read what the characters are feeling, you feel it with them.

The more I read about this team, the more I love them. I cannot wait for the next book in the series! Honestly, for anything Ms. Myles writes. This is officially my favorite book in the series, which I didn’t think was possible after Elusive Evil.

If you love romantic suspense, stop what you’re doing and read JJ Samie Myles. You will not regret it.

Do. Not. Miss. This. Series.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. I also purchased this book. The faith thread is prominent throughout. All. The. Stars!!! 

BackCover Blurb:

Some battles demand an unbreakable faith—and the ultimate sacrifice.

Former MARSOC sniper Ledger Romero faked his death to escape the Sombra Cartel after making their infamous revenge list. When a friend calls in a loyalty card and begs him to rescue his daughter from the ruthless regime, Ledger returns to Colombia and its deadly shadows—and walks right into an ambush.

Two years ago, Roxane Jaimes gave up a promising CIA career and infiltrated Sombra, the face of Colombia’s much-revered organization that funds pediatric surgeries with blood money. Her fiancé’s blood, to be exact. Determined to dismantle the cartel, she wrestles an inexplicable compulsion—which will destroy all her covert work—to save Sombra’s newest captive.

The cartel is hot on their heels as Ledger and Rox escape into the unforgiving Colombian jungle. When Task Force SEAR learns Ledger is still alive, they lock and load. However, squaring off against Sombra comes at a high price. Maybe higher than Ledger and Rox can pay. 

Warrior of Light Press, April, 2026

Available in digital ebook and paperback. Purchase at Amazon

BIRDS ON A WIRE by Katie Powner, Reviewed by Winnie and Paula #ReleaseDay

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“The more you love him, the harder it will be for you. But the more you love him, the better it will be for him. Protecting your own heart leaves his more vulnerable.”

Talented author Katie Powner has penned a powerful, poignant story which is heart-breaking, compassionate, and ultimately uplifting. Drawing on her own experiences as a foster parent, Powner shows both sides and points of view of the fostering process. The reader can see both the rewards and difficulties of fostering children and the pain and suffering of parents who wish to be reunited with their children. It also shows how fostering involves and affects so many people.

The characters in this story are carefully crafted, and I loved how the author showed the growth of all the characters involved as they united in love and concern for this tiny infant. It was inspiring to see the motivation of teen parents, Bri and AJ, as they worked to turn their lives around, as well as Laura as she added responsibility for someone else’s child onto her already full life of taking care of her own family. I greatly admire those who are foster families and the sacrifices they make to make a child’s life better and easier.

This book is beautifully written, insightful, and thought-provoking. I’m looking forward to more books by this author. 
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Kregel Publications. All opinions are my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:

This is a story written from the heart by an experienced foster mother. Ms. Powner draws from life to show the obstacles of birth mother addict Bri who had to give up her newborn and the journey she takes to recovery. Equally important is the foster mother Laura, and the family who takes an infant into their home to nurture him in hopes of a reunion. Both women love baby Providence and want the best for him.

The author tells an emotional story that makes you care for the characters. Teen mom Bri tries so hard and misses her son. Laura, a mom of three, tries to juggle family drama and a tiny new life. She shows her faith by caring not only for the baby but for Bri and her circumstances, too. 

A complex and involved plot gives us insight into the foster care program and Ms. Powner executes it very well. 

If you like exemplary women’s fiction, this one fits the bill.
*A complimentary book of this book was provided by Kregel and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Sometimes the people in our lives who come and go make all the difference

Eighteen-year-old Bri Marshall is determined to do whatever it takes to get her newborn son back after he's taken by CPS. But the chances of reunification with Providence are slim. Her drug-addicted boyfriend is the only reason she has a roof over her head. With no job, no car, and no family support, she's at rock bottom, hanging on to hope by a thread.

Laura Gambler, on the brink of turning forty, is managing new challenges with her own children when she's asked to take in Providence. She never could have imagined the chain of events her agreement to foster the baby would set in motion—or the carefully buried pain from her past it would drag back to the surface.

Both women wrestle with doubts about the future and their ability to parent Providence, even as their love for him grows stronger every day. As their lives become irrevocably intertwined, they face an impossible question: Who is the best mother for Providence?

Kregel Publishing, April, 2026

Available in digital ebook or paperback

Buy BIRDS ON  A WIRE at Amazon, or Baker Book House 

IN PURSUIT OF CIVILITY by Jen Turano, Reviewed by Paula and Winnie #ReleaseDay

Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies Book #2: 

A Witty Gilded-Age Christian Historical Rom-Com Set in Chicago

PAULA'S REVIEW:

Jen Turano always tickles my funnybone with the antics of her characters whether they be human or animals. 

 

In the case of In Pursuit of Civility, the heroine, Annalise has a boatload of trouble while in that pursuit. Annalise is serious about freeing animals from certain demise. Case in point: her aversion to fur and feather hunters or animals being mistreated in Fairs or Circuses. Hence, she has three attack ferrets, a pickpocket monkey and various other so-called pets. 

 

Her role in The Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies is Decorum Instructor but she is doomed to failure when her charges run off.
 

Seth McCormick, whose sister Norma Jean, is one of the young ladies, is an inventor of very curious and sometimes hilarious items, such as skunk scent deterrent designed for the young ladies protection. You can imagine the chaos that is the result. What a unconventional romance with Annalise this turns out to be when a present that Annalise welcomes is a habitat for her bugs and spiders and a spider sack to put in it.
 

There is not a dull moment in this book with runaways, a missing aunt, and a treasure hunt, not to mention meddling mothers and young ladies alike.
 

I love Ms. Turano’s turn of phrase and the stream of consciousness dialogue. While this can be read as a stand alone, the first book sets up the series nicely and who would want to miss the first book with more mischief and mayhem.
*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 a clean read with a slight faith content.

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“. . . I have a feeling we’re kindred spirits as we’re both aware of the rules of civility yet only choose to embrace those rules when it suits us and when those rules don’t get in the way of our pursuits.”

When the main characters of a story are an inventor who invents strange things and a supposed decorum instructor who loses her teenage charges at a fair and also collects unusual animals and insects, you know the resulting tale is going to be a little chaotic, especially when the author is talented author Jen Turano. Turano is the queen of madcap, witty, humorous stories featuring hilarious characters that create mayhem wherever they go. 

Eccentric inventor Seth McCormick and Annaliese Merriweather, the temporary head of the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies, combine their efforts to keep Annaliese’s young charges safe, including Seth’s precocious and adventurous sister, Norma Jean, who leads them on some merry chases.

“I will admit, though, that I always thought decorum instructors maintained a stiff upper lip, along with sporting a prim and proper appearance at all times, but to point out the obvious, you’re a mess.”

With plenty of humor, mayhem, adventure, and romance, this tale kept me chuckling, snorting, and turning pages. It is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone book. I’m looking forward to the mysterious Seraphina Livingston’s story in the next book. 
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House. All opinions are my own.

 

BackCover Blurb:
LESSON TWO: Become headmistress and expect to find yourself partnering with an attractive inventor to search for treasure.

Annaliese Merriweather has been appointed the temporary headmistress of the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies while her sister is on her honeymoon, but she doesn't feel cut out for the role. Especially after she loses two of her most troublesome students during an outing to a county fair and has to recruit the help of Seth McCormick, an eccentric inventor, to retrieve them.

Soon after, one of those mischievous students disappears again, intent on pursuing a pirate map. Together, Annaliese and Seth set out to find her, accompanied by a menagerie of Annaliese's rescued animal companions. As they stumble from one chaotic situation to the next, sparks fly between Annaliese and Seth. Somehow, they'll need to outwit dangerous individuals also intent on seeking the treasure and bring everyone back in one piece--all while deciphering what their hearts desire.

With witty characters and humorous banter, Jen Turano takes readers on a lively tale of hijinks, humor, treasure hunting, and forced proximity in her latest historical rom-com set in Chicago at a finishing school during the Gilded Age. 

Bethany House Publishing, April, 2026

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

Buy IN PURSUIT OF CIVILITY at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House