SPIES, LIES, AND ALIBIS by Natalie Walters, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:

I like spy stuff and this has all the tension of a James Bond Suspense flick with a touch of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, a rom-com underpinning, and a side of The Godfather. 

 
Cybil is a heroine who is a bit out of her depth but has the chops when she needs it. Ben is an irresistible hero who personifies the good guy. 

“Cybil is one part chaos, two parts pride, and I have always been just dumb enough to probe a hornet’s nest.” 

“Desperate times call for Bond level improvisation-minus the gadgets, martini and British accent.” 

A quirky character was grandma in a nursing home who was brave enough to call her FBI grandson to bail her our of jail!
So much fun chasing the bad guys. I want the next book now! This might be my favorite book by this author.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. All,opinions are mine alone.* 

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 

THE MANHATTAN CONFESSIONS by Jocelyn Green, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

(On Central Park Book #3): Christian Historical Fiction About a 

New York Historical Society Librarian Set in the Roaring Twenties

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Little did Ivy Malone know when she interviewed Adelaide King for the Historical Society that it would have far-reaching consequences. For her job, her friendships and possibly her very life. 

This was an intricately woven story about Ivy, Elsa and Gina who live at the Beresford Apartments on Central Park in New York City in the 1920s. Well researched, the book takes a look at immigration through Ellis Island and details what was expected from Gina, Ivy’s cousin from Italy who came because she faced persecution. Some history of The Daughters of the American Revolution was also cited and their help to those waiting to be cleared to be admitted to our country. 

The theme of the book was relationships and the loyalty and cost of friendships. It carried over to how God was the ultimate friend who never wavers when others fail. 

Excitement and danger were depicted as well as a couple of budding romances. 

Quality writing and an interesting setting made for a very enjoyable read.
*I purchased a print copy from Baker Book House and read an ecopy through NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a solid faith thread

SEE REBECCA'S REVIEW:

BackCover Blurb:
The streets of New York are brimming with secrets, and discovering the truth means navigating danger, deception, and an unexpected romance.

Ivy Malone, a New-York Historical Society librarian, is dedicated to preserving Manhattan's rich history, but when society grand dame Adeline King anonymously reveals her shocking life story, Ivy finds herself holding a highly coveted secret. Burdened with the responsibility of keeping Adeline's identity hidden, the matter grows increasingly complicated when two men claim ties to the elderly woman--one of them accusing Adeline of involvement in a crime.

Another dilemma brews when Ivy's Italian cousin, Gina, is detained at Ellis Island for lack of proper documentation. Hoping an immigration service can resolve the misunderstanding, Ivy employs their help but is instead thrust into a dangerous world. With time running out, she must unravel the tangle of secrets that bind Adeline's past, Gina's freedom, and her own safety. Who can she trust, and how far is she willing to go to protect those she loves?

This sweeping historical romance set against the backdrop of 1920s Manhattan, New York, and Ellis Island features family secrets, immigration, and a librarian's quest for justice. Fans of Elizabeth Camden and Roseanna M. White will savor this story that's perfect for book club discussions. 

Bethany House, April, 2026

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

Buy THE MANHATTAN CONFESSIONS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House  

 

NOT WHAT WE PICTURED by Becca Kinzer, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Zany, mad-cap, hilarious fun! From the first line, I was chuckling or laughing out loud on every page. 

McKenna and Nate did not have a meet cute! Not when Nate got in the way of McKenna setting up a proposal for her baby sister and Nate was mistaken for a dead body on a bench!
Riotously funny, the unexpected always happened, from lost luggage with an expensive ring trapped inside to a fundraiser with all the Harrys. Let’s not forget the conversations with the goats and chickens. 

With a slowly progressing romance and some meddling from the geriatric crowd, humor was always on the menu. There was a slight faith element to remind us that God loves the individual as well as exhortation to forgive and reconcile. I think this could have been a little stronger throughout. 

Ms Kinzer is decidedly the royalty of rom-com. I enjoy this author and will read more books by her.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Tyndale through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a slight faith thread 

SEE REBECCA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
This is absolutely not how they pictured their summer going.

McKenna Boston is feeling stuck. She's spent years growing her photography skills only for her career to hit a wall. She's ready to move on, and she will, just as soon as she helps her sister's boyfriend stage the perfect proposal. But when her best laid plans go awry and a handsome stranger accidentally ends up with the heirloom ring, McKenna hops on a flight to retrieve it. Piece of cake, right?

Nate Lambert was hoping to enjoy a relaxing summer before starting his new job as a literature professor, but he arrives in Tennessee to discover his mom's bed and breakfast is struggling and there's a long list of repairs to be tackled. The last thing he needs is a gorgeous, determined photographer searching for a ring he doesn't have since the airline lost his luggage somewhere on his route from Nebraska.

With the ring nowhere to be found, all McKenna can do is wait and use the time to build her portfolio and plan her next career move. But she also can't help getting swept up in Nate's bed and breakfast renovations and in planning a community concert with the townsfolk. As both await news of Nate's suitcase, it begins to seem their serendipitous meeting, and the proposal gone wrong, could actually be everything going right . . . and that this may be their chance at a love neither could have pictured.

-A clean, witty rom com with a forced proximity trope and a reluctant allies love story
-Features laugh-out-loud humor and a sweet, endearing couple
-This contemporary summer romance with a Southern small-town setting is great for fans of Sarah Adams, Pepper Basham, and Emma St. Clair
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs

Tyndale Fiction, April, 2026

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

Buy NOT WHAT WE PICTURED at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

 

CROSSBONES by CC Warrens, Reviewed and hosted by Paula Shreckhise #JustReadTour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Crossbones by C.C. Warrens, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Crossbones 
Series: A Holly Novel #6 
Author: C.C. Warrens 
Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: May 15th, 2026 
Genre: Romantic Suspense

"Sticks and stones will break your bones, if you make me hurt you.” 

Some truths are better left buried, but Jace Walker is determined to unearth the skeletons in her family’s closet. Leverage is all she needs to keep her brother alive, and she’s willing to risk everything to save him. 

Even her life. 
But is she willing to risk the lives of her friends? 

Holly and Jordan take on the case, but what should be a simple investigation takes a deadly turn when they stumble onto a murder. Family secrets are the least of their concerns as their path intertwines with a killer intent on remaining hidden. 

He doesn’t want to be found. 
He doesn’t want to be known. 
And anyone who threatens his anonymity dies.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon | BookBub

More in This Series

 

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Crossbones has serious subject matter sprinkled with humor to break the tension.
This series is one of my favorites. 

Ms. Warrens knows how to write an absorbing story with characters you come to lve. The relationship between Holly and her cohorts is priceless. They support her through all her many perilous adventures. They care so much for her: Jace as her best friend, Marx as her Dad figure and Jordan as her childhood friend who wants to be so much more. And let’s not forget the canine companion Riley and Sausage the cat. 

The faith of the characters is forefront in their lives and guides their actions, although they are all fallible. Even in the underbelly of New York City, Holly has a soft heart and wants to help those lost souls that she can empathize with. The danger not only effects Holly but also her best friends and they there to help her figure out the many impossible connections. These stories just keep getting better and better.  

In my estimation, this is the perfect contemporary, thriller/suspense book that takes us into the world of Holly Cross and teaches many worthwhile lessons.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided through Just Read Tours. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5+ stars and a solid faith thread

About the Author

Jesus and laughter have brought C.C. Warrens through some very difficult times in life, and she weaves both into every story she writes, creating a world of breath-stealing intensity, laugh-out-loud humor, and a sparkle of hope. Writing has been a slowly blossoming dream inside her for most of her life until one day it spilled out onto the pages that would become her first published book.

If she’s not writing, she’s attempting to bake something—however catastrophic that might be—or she’s enjoying the beauty of the outdoors with her husband. One of the many things she’s learned since she started this journey is that the best way to write a book is to go on a long stroll with her husband. That is when the characters—from their backgrounds to the moments that make them laugh or bubble over with anger—come to life.

Connect with C.C. by visiting ccwarrens.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a grand prize of a signed Crossbones paperback with bookmark, sticker, character art card, and a $10 Amazon gift card!

Up to (5) winners will each receive an ebook of Crossbones, delivered via Bookfunnel!

Up to (4) winners will each receive an audiobook download of Crossbones!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 25, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 1, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for grand prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

A CHANCE FOR KALLIE MAE by Ann Gabhart, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

Southern Historical Fiction set in the Appalachian Mountains

with Friends-to-Lovers Romance

PAULA'S REVIEW:
In the Appalachian hill country there are bound to be feuding families with long-held grudges. But that makes no sense to Kallie Bertram and Quinn Spencer. But their budding romance brings hostility to their clans. In spite of the animosity, this is a heartwarming, touching story. The author uses the Appalachian dialogue to give a cozy, down-home feel to the characters. She showed that even though some folks were unschooled, they had the desire to be more educated. The history of the Moonlight Schools was fascinating. 

Ms. Gabhart made me care about Kallie Mae with her strength and resilience since she took on the role of mother to her baby sister after their mother died. She and Quinn looked to God and Aunt Sudie for guidance and did want to respect their parents. But they were growing up and knew they needed to strike out on their own. 

This story hit all the feels for me. I love the faith that the author infuses into her stories, which touched on forgiveness and reconciliation. And the setting is magical.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Revell on behalf of the author and via NetGalley I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread 

BackCover Blurb:
She believes her dreams have been buried until one is rekindled--but the other threatens to cost her everything she loves.

Kallie Mae Bertram has harbored two dreams since childhood: to learn to read and to one day marry Quinn Spencer. But her first dream slipped away after her little sister died of a fever and her mother passed in childbirth. Kallie promised to care for the baby and her younger brother, which meant putting aside her own desires in order to keep her family together. But then a Moonlight School for adults offers Kallie hope of finally fulfilling that goal.

After Kallie's father forbids her from seeing Quinn, her second dream seems impossible. That is, until her frantic search for her missing sister leads to an unexpected encounter with Quinn in the woods--their first meeting in six years. The love they shared as children burns stronger than ever, awakening hopes Kallie thought were forever buried. But with their families locked in a bitter feud, following her heart could cost Kallie everything she's worked to protect. 

Bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart delivers a sweeping Southern historical romance where forbidden love, family feuds, and second chances collide in the early twentieth century Appalachian Mountains. 

Revell Publishing, May, 2026

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

Buy A CHANCE FOR KALLIE MAE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House  

THE SHERIFF'S SECRET PAST by Tina Radcliffe, Reviewed by Winnie and Kim #ReleaseDay

An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (Aspen Creek Cowboys Book 1)

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“Sometimes good things happen when you least expect it and when you think you can’t possibly manage one more thing in your life. And sometimes, they end up being the missing piece in your life.”

Talented author Tina Radcliffe is the queen of small-town romances. I always love the homey, down-to-earth characters and the charming, delightful stories she writes. The Sheriff’s Secret Past is the first book in her new Aspen Creek Cowboys series, and I’m already in love with all the people in Aspen Creek, Colorado.

“This town has a total of four gun shops, but only one grocery store. Our citizens take their Second Amendment rights more seriously than their avocados.”

The main characters, new owner and editor of the Aspen Creek newspaper Emily Taylor, and Sheriff Chase Everett, are engaging, realistic, and well-crafted. Furthermore, the attraction is still there from when they first met several years ago. When Chase finds that he’s going to be facing an election for his job, the last thing he wants is for Emily to be digging around in his past. He doesn’t need any scandal to ruin his chances for re-election or adopting his niece, Sarah. A stellar cast of supporting characters adds much fun and enjoyment to the story. Some of my favorites are the Soul Sisters, adorable Sarah, and Byron the dog.

Filled with witty, fun banter and heart-warming inspirational observations, this story kept me turning pages and smiling to the satisfying end. I’m looking forward to meeting more Aspen Creek Cowboys in the future. *I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

KIM'S REVIEW:
I’ve been reading Tina Radcliffe for years now, and her stories never lose their charm for me. There’s something so comforting about the way she blends warmth, humor, and heartfelt romance, all set against the backdrop of the small towns she brings to life so vividly. 

I’m especially drawn to second-chance romances, and this one absolutely delivered everything I hoped for. It had that emotional depth and tenderness that makes the journey feel real and satisfying. I also found myself really loving the town of Aspen Creek. It felt like a place I could step right into! The secondary characters added so much personality and richness to the story, especially Sarah and Byron.

This is the first story in the Aspen Creek series. I cannot wait for more! 
*I received a complimentary copy of this story. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light. 5 stars. 

BackCover Blurb:
There are only two things on Sheriff Chase Everett’s mind: his upcoming reelection, and adopting his sweet niece after his sister’s death. The last thing he needs to worry about is the new editor of the local newspaper digging into his past. Newcomer Emily Taylor is eager for a juicy scoop for the Aspen Creek Journal, and the handsome sheriff is the perfect subject. But Chase has a dark secret that he’s desperate to hide. He needs to keep his distance from the feisty journalist, which should be easy, until a dog and a little girl bring them together…

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

Aspen Creek Cowboys
Book 1: The Sheriff's Secret Past

Love Inspired, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon, or Christianbook

THE LUMBER BARON'S WIFE by Lynn Austin, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"You mean move there? To Michigan?"

After the tragic deaths of their three children, Dr. John Wagner and his wife Hannah have the opportunity for a fresh start, miles away from Brooklyn, New York where their once happy memories incessantly taunt them. Moving to the untamed forests of Michigan, where lumber baron Henry Abernathy is making quite a name for himself and amassing an enormous fortune in the process, might be exactly what they need, a fresh start. Henry promised to provide the couple with a brand new home and was convinced that his very young wife would benefit from a friend like Hannah to guide her through the intricacies of social etiquette. Sadly, a few years later Kate Abernathy mysteriously disappears, never to be seen again.

The mistress of the famed, but deteriorating Michigan mansion had vanished without a trace, igniting Ashley Gilbert's double love of history and restoration, more convinced than ever that her husband's new job as a conservationist has brought them to a place they could finally call home. Naturally the relative newlyweds are still finding their rhythm and Ashley's lack of income as a volunteer in the Abernathy renovation project is a sore spot for her husband, who urges her to seek employment right away and hit pause on the notion of starting a family.

Three women, separated by over a century, converge as Ashley's motivation to help restore the beautiful property with a storied history grows in intensity, while quietly discovering a new love in her heart through the quiet testimony of an unexpected friend, much like Kate and Hannah had experienced so many years prior. Grief. Guilt. Generosity. Faith. Forgiveness. Family.

A wonderful dual timeline with carefully constructed characters who populate an unsolved mystery! 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
When the young wife of a powerful lumber baron vanishes into the wilds of frontier Michigan, her friend is left to unravel the truth in this captivating dual-timeline novel from bestselling author Lynn Austin.

1873. After a devastating loss, Hannah Wagner never imagined she’d leave her comfortable home for the harsh, unfamiliar wilderness near Lake Michigan. But when Henry Abernathy―a friend of her husband, John―offers them a fresh start in a booming lumber town, where John’s skills as a doctor are sorely needed, Hannah reluctantly agrees. There, she meets Kate, Henry’s spirited, much younger wife. Kate’s sharp tongue and outsider status have made her unwelcome among the town’s elite, and when she begins confiding in Hannah, it’s clear her marriage is not what it seems . . . and that a secret from her past could destroy everything.

Present day. Ashley Gilbert never planned to settle in Michigan, but when her husband lands his dream job as a conservationist, she agrees to follow. While restoring their historic home―built in the 19th century for a doctor and his wife―Ashley becomes captivated by its past and its connection to the nearby Abernathy mansion, now being transformed into a museum. While volunteering with the restoration, she stumbles upon the unsolved mystery of Kate Abernathy’s disappearance. 

What begins as curiosity soon becomes a quest for the truth―one that will connect her to two women whose stories and struggles echo and inspire her own.Standalone historical fiction about marriage, grief, and the power of female friendships from the author of All My Secrets and Long Way Home
-A richly layered Christian women’s fiction novel with elements of mystery, perfect for fans of Martha Hall Kelly, Kristy Cambron, and Susan Meissner
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs 

Tyndale Fiction, April, 2026

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

Buy THE LUMBER BARON'S WIFE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

 

 

THE TARGETED by Cara Putman, Hosted and Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise for #JustRead #Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for The Targeted by Cara Putman, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Targeted 

Series: Secrets to Keep #3 

Author: Cara Putman 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: May 19, 2026 

Genre: Romantic Suspense 

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? 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

 

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Cara Putman has penned another stellar suspense story. Chloe Ainsworth is a paralegal who is contemplating entering law school. She has ghosts in her background that come racing back to the present when her sister returns after a long absence. And the gymnastics coach who abused her in the past makes his appearance too.
 

Lots of cloak and dagger happenings to put Chloe in danger again. But with the help of law student Dare Shepherd, she pursues justice. Dare was a great hero. He was juggling a lot of things in his own career but was thoughtful, caring and perceptive.
Intriguing and involved plotting that you can tell took a lot of research, kept me on my toes. The author handled the sensitive topic with grace and at the same time got the point across.
 

It was nice to see friends Janae and Margeaux from previous books. The romantic element was subtle but nicely done. The faith of the characters showed their reliance on God and that they were moving forward from their shared trauma.
 

I enjoyed this unique story and informative in one of my favorite genres.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Kregel through Just Read Publicity Tours. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread  

More Books from this Series:

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About the Author

Cara Putman is a professor, an attorney, and an award-winning, best-selling author of more than forty novels, including the Cornhusker Dreams series, the Hidden Justice series, and The Vanished.

Connect with Cara by visiting caraputman.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of The Targeted and $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 20, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on May 27, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

SILENT MENACE by Angela Carlisle, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

The Secrets of Kincaid: A Small-Town Cold Case 

Romantic Suspense Novel with a Bodyguard Love Interest

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Widow Hailey is terrified when bad things start happening. But the threats are real and put her and her deaf, toddler daughter in more danger. She is confounded when trying to figure out if the danger is coming from a disgruntled co-worker or if it is from a more far-reaching source. Ex-bodyguard and security guard at her building, Peter, comes to her aid. 

The plot was well-written with likeable main characters, scary bad guys and an interesting problem to solve that was complex and puzzling. Peter was a thoughtful, godly hero with an incident in his past that he worked around in order to protect Hailey. Hailey was determined to provide for her daughter and also to do the right and ethical thing when confronted with shady dealings. 

For those who like suspense along with romance and a solid faith thread, this is the ideal story.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*4.5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
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 BOOKSHOP OF 99 DOORS by Jaime Jo Wright, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:
It is always an adventure when I read a book by Ms. Wright. It gives my brain a workout trying to figure out how the supernatural and spooky will be explained. 

This was a bit more spooky than usual and reminded me of myself in high school and my own search for the Truth. Getting to the end of the story was very intriguing. I love old houses and the possibilities of hidden rooms, doors and treasure. It was fascinating how the past and present came full circle in the story. I never tire of reading the interesting ways this author connects her two time periods. I always appreciate the faith journey her characters take and the emphasis on the truth of the Gospel. 

Well done suspense-I call Gothic Gold.
*I purchased a copy of this book from Baker Book House and read an ebook via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread 

SEE REBECCA'S 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 

 

 

MORE THAN FRIENDS by Denise Hunter, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

 A sweet, low-spice contemporary romance 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Just because they were both single and available for the first time in years didn't mean he should be thinking of her this way."

Oh, but he did. When Tyson Parker discovers that Jenna Green is back on Chincoteague Island, he looks forward to rekindling their easygoing friendship. Jenna is still reeling from an engagement proposal gone awry, and Tyson has grown weary of trying to date every single woman on the island following his divorce. When Jenna comes to him for advice after her mother arrives back from a cruise with a gentleman friend in tow, the two pick up right where they left off, except for that nagging feeling that Jenna is becoming more than just a friend.

Things tangle up when Jenna's new job prospects will likely take her back off the island, plus her fear of ever loving someone with a dangerous job turn Tyson's volunteer firefighting passion into an obvious obstacle.

A sweet, smoldering friends-to-more romance with several interesting sub-plots that inconveniently converge at the same time, forcing Jenna and Tyson to face the fact that even though life might seem out of their control, it was never out of God's. 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars. 

BackCover Blurb:
Who knew that returning home after a broken engagement could be the best decision you ever made? Denise Hunter is back with another heartwarming contemporary romance with a sweet friends-to-more story, featuring a saltwater cowboy. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber and Hallmark movies.

Jenna Greene just ended things with her boyfriend . . . which also ended her career. (That's the risk a girl takes when her boyfriend doubles as her boss.) With no income and no job prospects in sight, Jenna is forced to return to her mother's house on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, to figure out what's next. And the timing couldn't be more perfect. Jenna's widowed mother has just returned from a cruise--with a brand-new boyfriend in tow. But there's something off about the guy. His story doesn't quite add up, and he keeps sneaking off to make suspicious phone calls and borrowing money from her too-trusting mother.

In search of some investigative help, Jenna turns to her childhood BFF, Tyson Parker, who lives and works in town. Still reeling from his wife's infidelity, Tyson is doing his best to heal from the pain of divorce. He's made a name for himself on the island as a volunteer firefighter and one of the much-admired saltwater cowboys who looks after Chincoteague's wild ponies. Oh, and he turned out to be more than a tiny bit attractive--besides being almost-too-good-to-be-true sweet and caring.

Growing up, the uber-competitive Jenna was always accepted as one of the guys. But things have changed between her and Tyson, and he's now looking at her through new eyes. Jenna suddenly feels like a leading lady on a movie set--only with way less composure.

But Jenna also has old wounds that make these new feelings seem fraught with peril. Is she willing to open her heart and see where love might lead? Or will she let her hesitant heart hold her back?

More Than Friends is a charming, can't-put-it-down romance, full of laugh-out-loud moments, tender emotion, and the kind of small-town warmth Denise Hunter does best. With its beloved friends-to-more arc, swoony yet grounded hero, and gentle thread of healing and hope, this story will have readers rooting for love on every page. If you're longing for a feel-good romance that blends heart, humor, and just enough mystery to keep you reading past your bedtime, More Than Friends is the perfect escape to Chincoteague Island.

Thomas Nelson Publishing, April 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook

Buy MORE THAN FRIENDS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE LIFE SHE FORGOT by Joanna Davidson Politano, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'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." 

This is a story like none other; elegant as a poem and crafty as an imposter, sneaking and waltzing from page to page like a memory that cannot decide whether or not to become a nightmare or a dream come true. Grief mingles with joy, broken vessels become parables, hidden paintings tell sad stories, and the forgetting, always the forgetting.

Remembering . . . regretting . . . restoring . . . remaining . . . mingling . . .mixing . . defining . . . love.

When Merryn Dunn loses all remnants of her past, she is locked into a world where anyone and everyone can have her best or worst interests in mind. Upon saving the life of a young child, she inherits a substantial sum of money and the guardianship of the boy whose life she saved. Her good fortune earns the scorn of the woman who was born into that wealth and in order to protect what is hers, Merryn agrees to a marriage of convenience, after all her husband is a handsome, impetuous man whom she has come to adore.

Except that the memory of another striking profile flashes in and out of her subconscious . . . is it possible that she belongs to another? Why can she not remember the life that she has forgotten?

This book is as much of a wild ride as it is a slow drift, meaning that it is so very much a love story . . . for "love stands in the gap between . . . "
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

SEE REVIEWS BY PAULA AND WINNIE

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

 

SHIPWRECKED FAITH by Danielle Grandinetti, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

DAWNING SISTERS SERIES Book #1

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“Nothing for it but to put one foot in front of the other. To trust God to work out the future while being faithful in the here and now.”

Drawing on a real ship that was lost in a storm, the author has penned a wonderfully exciting story of two strangers escaping Chicago and ending up in a shipwreck. The scenes where Sadie and Kellen were fighting for their lives in the midst of a storm were terrifying and realistic. The trouble just keeps coming as they reach her family farm in Wisconsin. Kellen sees this as an opportunity to help Sadie’s family and at the same time hide from thugs he left behind in Chicago. 

This was a story of sustaining faith and how God showed the characters a solution to their problems and kept them through all of their difficulties. 

I enjoyed the family atmosphere at the farm and the way the sisters each wanted to help rescue the farm from foreclosure. Kellen was the perfect hero when he resolved to help in any way he could. It illustrated how he had grown in his faith. 

This engaging story was coupled with some interesting history. 

Danger and romance is a winning combination. I look forward to reading more in this series.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required ro post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:

Chicago, October 1929—Kellan O’Roark is running on borrowed time. After handing over his cousin’s incriminating bootlegging ledger to the police, he intends to vanish before the mobster exacts revenge. His destination: the SS Wisconsin, a steamer headed for Milwaukee, upon which he’s secured work despite his fear of the water.

But despite his pressing need for escape, Kellan faces obstacles while leaving Chicago—including one who may break open his heart. Sadie Dawning, desperate to return to her family’s Wisconsin farm and ailing father, escapes a kidnapping attempt at Chicago Union Station when Kellan steps in and offers to smuggle her aboard the Wisconsin. His decision turns nearly fatal when an autumn storm capsizes the ship.

Washed ashore, the pair arrive at Sadie’s family farm to find new storms brewing on land. While Kellan hides his past to continue evading his cousin, Sadie fights for her place among her sisters while the farm battles the beginnings of the Great Depression. Caught between duty, a dangerous past, and a budding love, Kellan and Sadie must rely on their newfound faith in each other and renewed faith in God to weather the growing storm. 

Ashberry Lane Publishing, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook or paperback. BUY SHIPWRECKED FAITH at Amazon 

 

 

NOT WHAT WE PICTURED by Becca Kinzer, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Was there anything that ruined a perfect marriage proposal more than a snoozing, potentially dead body on a bench?"

And so it began. McKenna Boston was determined to plant her sister's engagement ring on a particular bench at a particular time in a particular place and then scurry out of sight to take pictures of the momentous occasion, thus opening the door to pursue her own aspirations. There was just this teeny, weeny flaw with the plan. A very real man was sleeping on that one-of-a-kind bench.

Nate Lambert had been minding his own business and trying to doze off a headache after attending the funeral of his beloved mentor and before catching a flight out of Nebraska. When a crazy acting redhead fumbles into his arm pit Nate somehow got the distinct feeling that his life was about to take an unexpected turn . . . like a ride on a roller coaster turned tilt-a-whirl.

The story that follows is one the funniest that I have ever read! Filled with rings zipped inside pants pockets, uninvited kisses, dunks in a river, trips to an emergency room, lost luggage, a crazy acting redhead (yes, her again), interrogation by airport security guards (with that aforementioned woman), and by this point you are still only a few chapters into the story.

Yet beneath all the hilarity, a steady cadence beats true; that God's love is unearned, immeasurable and everlasting. It doesn't get any better than that! 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.4.5 stars

BackCover Blurb:
This is absolutely not how they pictured their summer going.

McKenna Boston is feeling stuck. She's spent years growing her photography skills only for her career to hit a wall. She's ready to move on, and she will, just as soon as she helps her sister's boyfriend stage the perfect proposal. But when her best laid plans go awry and a handsome stranger accidentally ends up with the heirloom ring, McKenna hops on a flight to retrieve it. Piece of cake, right?

Nate Lambert was hoping to enjoy a relaxing summer before starting his new job as a literature professor, but he arrives in Tennessee to discover his mom's bed and breakfast is struggling and there's a long list of repairs to be tackled. The last thing he needs is a gorgeous, determined photographer searching for a ring he doesn't have since the airline lost his luggage somewhere on his route from Nebraska.

With the ring nowhere to be found, all McKenna can do is wait and use the time to build her portfolio and plan her next career move. But she also can't help getting swept up in Nate's bed and breakfast renovations and in planning a community concert with the townsfolk. As both await news of Nate's suitcase, it begins to seem their serendipitous meeting, and the proposal gone wrong, could actually be everything going right . . . and that this may be their chance at a love neither could have pictured.

-A clean, witty rom com with a forced proximity trope and a reluctant allies love story
-Features laugh-out-loud humor and a sweet, endearing couple
-This contemporary summer romance with a Southern small-town setting is great for fans of Sarah Adams, Pepper Basham, and Emma St. Clair
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs

Tyndale Fiction, April, 2026

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

Buy NOT WHAT WE PICTURED at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

MISS BETH BETTENCOURT by Eva Marie Everson, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:

“Miss Beth Bettencourt was not some flighty female, and she did not appear to be one to back down either.” 

“Beth Bettencourt was a puzzle of a thousand pieces.”

Miss Beth Bettencourt is shown respect around her small town and a bit of sympathy considering what happened several years ago. 

Newcomer Marty makes the mistake of entering the wrong house and finds himself at the mercy of the court and beholden to Beth who offers him employment and a place to lay his head. 

This was a southern comfort story with some angst in the backstories. The theme seemed to be how Beth worked through forgiveness and went beyond the hurt that had crippled her. Marty also had something lurking in his past that needed resolution. Marty’s faith journey was well depicted and showed how he changed his outlook and wanted the best for Beth. Together, they find love and reconciliation in order to move forward. 

I loved the relationship that Beth had with Molly, her friend and housekeeper. The setting of a small town and the connection with the people evoked a time of community closeness in a bygone era.

A solidly written story and a welcome addition to those who love southern fiction.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Kregel . I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Will an unlikely romance tear down Beth’s walls of indifference?

It's 1962 in Bynum, Georgia, and Beth Bettencourt's world is turned upside down when she wakes to a man snoring in the guest bedroom.

She's home alone; her parents are traveling abroad, grieving her twin sister's unexpected death. Instead of accompanying them, Beth stayed in Bynum to tend to her kindergarten and closely guard her own heart.

A beautiful and beloved member of the community, Beth is an unusual specimen for her time as she nears thirty and remains unmarried. She holds deep-seated unforgiveness toward her twin, Elise, who ran off with Beth's beau. To make matters worse, Elise took their grandmother's ring, which had been promised to Beth.

But now a stranger enters her home and her world. David Patrick Martin seems ready to break down her walls of indifference and find the core of Miss Beth Bettencourt. But can he be trusted with Beth's past, her present, and more importantly, her future?

Kregel Publications, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy MISS BETH BETTENCOURT at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE MANHATTAN CONFESSIONS By Jocelyn Green, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

(On Central Park Book #3): Christian Historical Fiction About a 

New York Historical Society Librarian Set in the Roaring Twenties

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"The story would be filed away in the New York Historical Society library, where only the most avid local history buffs would ever learn of its existence."

Fortunately or unfortunately, that is not what happened. When New York Historical Society librarian Ivy Malone recorded notable socialite Adeline King's life story, anonymously of course, the opening excerpt that the library published prompted public interest to skyrocket, precipitating society patrons to line up for a chance to read the full story while surreptitiously looking for clues as to the identity of its subject matter. To make matters worse, two men determined that their lives had been forever impacted by the life of the notorious Molly Kelly, pushed and pleaded with Ivy, as an employee of the historical society library, to reveal their sources.

Simultaneous to her growing anxiety over keeping her dear friend Adeline King's identity a secret, Ivy was preparing for the arrival of her cousin to Ellis Island. Upon landing in New York, Gina was informed that her documentation was incomplete, making deportation back to Italy an unwelcome reality unless Ivy could find a way to help Gina meet the precise requirements. It seemed providential to be given the name of a local law firm specializing in immigration cases, only to discover that her friend Tom urged extreme caution.

This remarkable story layers together several prominent plot lines, skillfully engaging readers to peer deep within New York society during the early 1920's, seaming together immigration issues with nefarious underground activities, exposing the fragile tiers of New York society with the value of sincere friendships, allowing hearts to make the necessary twists and turns in order to produce something of lasting value. Also, perhaps even more valuable is the reminder that none of us are ever alone in this world, for there is One who can be depended upon to never leave or forsake, "even there", wherever that happens to be.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars

 
BackCover Blurb:
The streets of New York are brimming with secrets, and discovering the truth means navigating danger, deception, and an unexpected romance.

Ivy Malone, a New-York Historical Society librarian, is dedicated to preserving Manhattan's rich history, but when society grand dame Adeline King anonymously reveals her shocking life story, Ivy finds herself holding a highly coveted secret. Burdened with the responsibility of keeping Adeline's identity hidden, the matter grows increasingly complicated when two men claim ties to the elderly woman--one of them accusing Adeline of involvement in a crime.

Another dilemma brews when Ivy's Italian cousin, Gina, is detained at Ellis Island for lack of proper documentation. Hoping an immigration service can resolve the misunderstanding, Ivy employs their help but is instead thrust into a dangerous world. With time running out, she must unravel the tangle of secrets that bind Adeline's past, Gina's freedom, and her own safety. Who can she trust, and how far is she willing to go to protect those she loves?

This sweeping historical romance set against the backdrop of 1920s Manhattan, New York, and Ellis Island features family secrets, immigration, and a librarian's quest for justice. Fans of Elizabeth Camden and Roseanna M. White will savor this story that's perfect for book club discussions. 

Bethany House, April, 2026

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

Buy THE MANHATTAN CONFESSIONS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House