A BREWED AWAKENING By Pepper Basham, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

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

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"If you'd told me handsome was comin' to town, I'd have worn my good teeth."

Granny D wasn't the only citizen of Wisteria, North Carolina who was swooning over their recent transplant. For heaven's sake, Daphne Austen was caught practically drooling over the man's car, until the owner of the blue Cabriolet opened his very fine mouth that was situated perfectly on his very fine face and spoke in a distinctive British accent. And just like that, it was game-on in the banter department.

Finn Dashwood, Daphne's new next door neighbor on Main Street. His pub, her tearoom, it was the stuff small mountain town legends were made of. The entire town was captivated by their sugar and spice, competition between tarts and ribs, chalkboard shenanigans, their . . . whatever it was they were doing. ("@HarryColeman: Is this what the kids call flirting these days? @MargaretColeman: Darling, don't meddle. But yes, it absolutely is.")

Underneath all the social media frenzy was a common human response; fear. Both Finn and Daphne had experienced great loss, people who were supposed to be forever had fled and neither were particularly interested in experiencing the gut wrenching sensation of a broken heart ever again. However, somewhere in the middle of cook-offs, and bake-offs, kiss-offs (oops!)and stand-offs, they realized that God had given them an exceptional blessing; each other.

One of the funniest, cleverest stories that I have ever read, or ever will read! (with one of the sweetest little princess characters!) (besides, the social media conversations at the beginning of every chapter are worth the price of the book!) (there's more! that sweet, sad nod to local catastrophe, well done!) 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.4.5 stars

 SEE PAULA'S REVIEW:

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 

A SCATTERING OF LIGHT by Lori Benton, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

CROCKETT'S LANDING Book One

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"His blessings freely scattered like light - readily seen if one didn't close her eyes for fear of the darkness."

When Scottish drover Will Crockett gains consciousness on a different continent, it is gravely apparent that he has lost everything dear to his heart. Under the roof of a kind young Quaker woman by the name of Verity Wilde, Will discovers that he was indentured to the Wildes as a way of saving his life, although Verity originally sought only to grant him a compassionate death and burial, for he barely had breath when they scooped him up off the deck of the ship that had delivered him to colonial Virginia. Miraculously, he lived.

Like Will, Verity had suffered great loss and was at an impasse about how to move forward in her life. Her strict religious parameters were a stark contrast to Will's obvious discomfort of all things pertaining to the Almighty, yet both are constrained by misconceptions of their own choosing. As circumstances continue to unravel outside the bounds of their every desire, can the two battered souls perceive the scatterings of light, God's abundant blessings relentlessly peeking through the shrouds of darkness, begging them to navigate beyond what they see, and hold fast to the truth of "every good and perfect gift . . . comes from the Father of lights".

While this story took awhile to develop, it was time well spent, for it was a story meant to savor rather than taste and to absorb rather than simply acknowledge. The character development was exceptional, the author giving her portrayals plenty of time to both succeed and fail, toil and rest, sympathize and adore. And for those still wondering if the darkness ever conquers the light, the message is clear, it does not.

A fabulous book with incredible depth and profound spiritual impact!
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurb:
A Scottish drover spirited into servitude. A young Quaker woman wounded by loss. Their meeting will leave no heart unchallenged, no life unchanged.

Colonial Virginia 1734

Mourning her wayward brother’s death, Verity Wilde has turned her back on Williamsburg society, striving to live by her notion of true religion: to keep oneself unspotted from the world. But when she boards a ship to claim an indentured Scottish clerk, she’s unprepared to find another Scotsman, starved and gravely ill, left on deck untended. With scarcely more knowledge of the man than his name and place of origin—William Crockett of Skye—pity compels Verity to purchase his indenture too, meaning to provide the compassionate death denied him by the ship’s crew. Only he doesn’t die.

Will Crockett’s survival upends Verity’s carefully circumscribed life, while he awakens to find his world shattered beyond recognition. As they seek to reconcile their broken pasts, bitterness and fear vie with hope to chart their futures. Can they find the courage to trust each other, and a God who scatters light in the darkness? 

Published by Story Architect, April 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy A SCATTERING OF LIGHT at Amazon, or Christianbook, 

THE INKLINGS DETECTIVE AGENCY by John R. Kelly, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“Throughout history, the minds of literary geniuses and the practical science of detection have walked hand in hand.” -Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

An entertaining who-done-it featuring The Inklings of C.S. Lewis and Tolkien fame. Completely fictional but fun story that has The Inklings being asked to investigate a murder. With an underlying faith theme that did spell out the faith of Lewis and Tolkien, this was an interesting look at the British Isles in 1936 that had cameos of the likes of Agatha Christie, C.K. Chesterton, and Dorothy Sayers. I especially enjoyed the quotes by famous authors at the beginning of each chapter.  

The afterward told what real history was used in the novel. I was intrigued by The Detectives Club, a group of writers who had 10 rules of detective fiction. I will look for these when I watch my next Poirot or Ms. Marple. 

This had overtones of the occult but it was explained in light of Christianity and the Bible. 

“I suppose the greatest puzzles and mysteries in our lives are the people we choose to surround ourselves with.”
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Waterbrook via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review.All opinions are mine alone.*4.5 stars and an underlying faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
In the shadowy streets of 1936 Oxford, England, members of a secret society keep turning up dead. When J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and their fellow literary masterminds, known as the Inklings, are called upon to catch a killer, they trade their pens for magnifying glasses. With time running out, they get a helping hand from mystery writers Agatha Christie and Dorothy Sayers to unravel a sinister web of secrets.

Packed with historical details, intrigue, and a thrilling whodunit, this novel is a masterful blend of high-stakes drama. Dive into a world where the creators of fantasy and mystery confront a real-life menace in a race against the clock. Will dark forces prevail, or will these literary giants crack the case before the murderer strikes again? 

Waterbrook Publishing, May, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, or audiobook:

Buy THE INKLINGS DETECTIVE AGENCY at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House  

WITNESS PROTECTION by Robert Whitlow, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Lord, you know every detail about what Kelli is dealing with in this case. I ask you to intervene as only you can so that your will in heaven will be done on earth."

Following her divorce, single mom and attorney Kelli Quinn trades in her stressful job at a large Atlanta law firm for a small law office in Brunswick where she joins a former classmate. Having been offered a place to live with her favorite Aunt Carly, Kelli and her children begin their transition to a new normal. However, Kelli's first case is anything but normal.

Jon Tremaine has taken years to reinvent himself under the Federal Witness Protection program after offering highly valuable testimony against the drug cartel with whom he had been involved. He has a wonderful job, a beautiful wife, and a baby son arriving within weeks. When one of Jon's employees at the commercial tree farm that he manages is arrested under suspicious circumstances, Jon offers immediate assistance, including partial payment for a private defense attorney, Kelli Quinn. As it turns out, getting involved in another drug smuggling case, even on the periphery, has unintended consequences, not only for Jon but for everyone around him.

In addition to offering its readers a superb legal case, this story is anchored on the faithful prayers of a dear woman whose health is precarious but whose faith is firm. The authentic fears and doubts that Jon and Kelli both experience throughout this novel are notably compelling, and while resolutions seem just out of reach, they provide a divine opportunity; "entering into God's rest at any level was better than the alternative of despair".

What a wonderful book! 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurb:

Jon Tremaine has lived in hiding for years--will coming out of the shadows to help a friend be too great a risk? Perfect for fans of John Grisham and Charles Martin, Witness Protection is a legal drama with a deep undercurrent of faith.

All is finally good. Jon Tremaine has created a new life in Brunswick, Georgia, as part of the Federal Witness Protection program after testifying against the former drug cartel he was involved with. Only his wife, Sarah, and a handler with the US Marshal's office know his true identity, and he is now the manager of a large commercial tree farm with a baby on the way. But when one of Jon's employees is arrested for allegedly smuggling drugs into the United States, he goes against his better judgment and inserts himself in the middle of the case, believing the man is an unsuspecting mole manipulated by sophisticated drug dealers.

Kelli Quinn, a highly skilled litigator with an Atlanta law firm, has moved to Brunswick to work with her best friend from law school, hoping to rebuild her life after a painful divorce. She and her two children find a temporary home with her aunt Carly, a woman whose great faith is making an impression on her new houseguests. For the first time in a very long while, Kelli sees a future where she can find balance between the job she loves and the family she loves even more.

New to the firm and in need of clients, Kelli agrees to represent Jon's employee. The unfolding investigation reveals layers of criminal activity and possible connections to Jon's past, putting everyone at risk of exposure--and even death.

With its gripping pace, layered legal intrigue, and heartfelt exploration of faith under pressure, Witness Protection has already been praised by early readers as a standout Robert Whitlow novel--one that keeps the pages turning while asking deeper questions about courage, identity, and redemption. As danger closes in and past sins resurface, Whitlow expertly weaves suspense with grace, showing how even the safest hiding place can't protect the heart from truth.

Thomas Nelson Publishing, April, 2026

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

Buy WITNESS PROTECTION at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

INTO A GOLDEN ERA by Gabrielle Meyer, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula

 

An Inspirational Gold Rush and Hollywood Golden Age-Era Time Travel Romance

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Let's decide to hope. To believe that God will make a way where there seems to be none."

Time-crosser Ally Bennett, a notable 1929 Hollywood film star is also Ally Adams, a near destitute newcomer to 1849 San Francisco. As her twenty-fifth birthday draws near, the decision of which pathway to choose as her forever life becomes blurred as her small family owned production company faces bankruptcy and her chances of striking gold in California seems nearly impossible.

Two men also take up room in Ally's dilemma. One, a charming playboy whose reputation has been shattered and needs the respectability that a fake romance with Ally could provide, the other a boardinghouse owner whose past is just as damaged as her Hollywood heartthrob. After Ally finally makes up her mind, history throws a significant obstacle into her plans, and every time-crosser knows how dangerous it is to change the course of history.

With impressive expertise, this author constructs a bridge between two very different but equally interesting time periods, all while reminding her readers that wherever, whenever, God has a plan and is trustworthy even when the end of the story seems impossible to write.

PAULA'S REVIEW
Another compelling time-crossing novel by the talented Gabrielle Meyer. While each story in the series consists of two timelines, each story is unique and mesmerizing. This time Ally Adams is in San Francisco in 1849 and looking to strike it rich in the gold fields. Her other timeline is 1929 in Hollywood as a leading lady for her family’s production company, just as talkies are emerging. 

It was fascinating how the stories connected and showed the dangers of trying to change history, even in the slightest way. Since the times are only 80 years apart, you could possibly meet someone you had known in your other time. You could feel the pull that each time had on Ally as she tries to make a decision of which time she chooses to stay in. 

With stellar research, Ms Meyer deftly crafts another distinctive story that brings home faith lessons and the meaning of true love and sacrifice.
*I purchased a copy of this book from Baker Book House and read an ecopy via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All opinions are mine alone.*5+ stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Two eras. One future. An impossible choice that will determine the course of history.

As a time-crosser, Ally lives in two worlds. In 1849, in an attempt to secure her family's future during the California Gold Rush, she finds herself penniless and stranded in San Francisco. Forced to take shelter in a dangerous boardinghouse owned by an infamous gang member, Ally is desperate to escape. But when she discovers that history has changed around her, and it now claims she will do something unthinkable, she must use her time-crossing knowledge to find answers.

In 1929, Ally is an up-and-coming starlet during the Golden Age of Hollywood, but her family's film studio is on the brink of ruin, and their remaining resources are invested into a production of Little Women. If the endeavor fails, Ally's family will lose everything. To ensure their success, she agrees to stage a fake romance with a notorious Hollywood heartthrob in hopes of using his fame for their movie, but she risks her heart in the process. When history doesn't play by the rules, Ally must decide if she will throw all caution aside and risk everything for the people she loves. But which path will be worth sacrificing to save the other?  

Bethany House Publishing, May, 2026

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

Buy INTO A GOLDEN ERA at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

IF ALL ELSE SALES by Emma St. Clair, Reviewed by Kim

A Sweet Grumpy-Sunshine Rom-Com

KIM'S REVIEW:
I absolutely loved this story—literally everything about it! The grumpy-with-a-heart-of-gold/sunshine trope was perfection. The humor was spot on, and the ending was beautiful. There’s also a bonus story from Emma St. Clair that I absolutely loved!

Wyatt is basically amazing. From his grumpiness to his feverish ramblings to his heart of gold—perfection. Josie is full of sunshine and personality, and I loved how she brought out the best in Wyatt. The humor woven throughout was another highlight for me.

I will say, though, I didn’t really see this as an enemies-to-lovers romance. To me, it felt more like a misunderstanding on Josie’s part mixed with a “he falls first” romance—and I loved that about it.

I highly recommend If All Else Sails by Emma St. Clair. 5 stars.
I purchased this book. This is a clean read. 

BackCover Blurb:
USA TODAY BESTSELLER!

In this grumpy-sunshine romance, school nurse Josie and her brother's best friend--hockey player Wyatt Jacobs--are tricked into spending a summer together that's anything but smooth sailing.

When Josie's brother sends her to a random address for their (sometimes) annual Super Summer Sibling Extravaganza, she finds neither siblings nor extravaganzas. Instead, ends up at a run-down cottage on the Northern Neck of Virginia occupied by a hockey player she knows and loathes.

A hockey player who isn't just one of her sports agent brother's clients. He's also his best friend. And Josie's sworn enemy.

Oh--and her brother wants Josie to help Wyatt recover from his injury.

Dragging grumpy hockey players to physical therapy is a far cry from bandaging skinned knees, but for the price her brother offers to pay, Josie is willing to try.

Even if it means sharing what she dubs the quaint little murder cottage with Wyatt.

Begrudgingly, Josie starts to see a little more of the man behind the grumpy exterior. And when she finds out he was supposed to sail the Intracoastal Waterway south to Savannah scattering his uncle's ashes, Josie surprises even herself by offering to be Wyatt's first mate.

Smooth sailing is nowhere to be found, and Josie begins to wonder if they'll be able to make it home without killing--or kissing?--each other.

And yet, the longer they share cramped quarters and canned food, the more of Wyatt's layers she peels back until Josie realizes she misunderstood him, their shared history, and perhaps herself as well.

If you're a fan of closed-door romance with sizzling chemistry, laugh-out-loud banter, and relatable characters, this romance with enemies-to-lovers vibes is your perfect escape. Dive into the irresistible story of Wyatt and Josie as they navigate the rocky waters of their past, uncover hidden depths, and discover that sometimes love is found in the most unexpected places. With the delightful grumpy-sunshine dynamic and the swoon-worthy he-falls-first trope, If All Else Sails by USA TODAY bestselling author Emma St. Clair will keep you turning the pages late into the night.

Thomas Nelson, August, 2025

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

Buy IF ALL ELSE FAILS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

QUEEN BEE by Heather Day Gilbert, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:

This short novella packs a punch and tells a complete story. There is excitement and tension as Twila and her foster daughter flee from danger only yo find it knocking on their hideaway door. Plus add a violent wind storm and a power outage to the mix and things get doubly complicated. Twists I did not see coming. It was crafted so well I questioned everyone and everything. 

This makes me want to check out the Queen of Hearts series by this author.
* A complimentary copy was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a clean read.

BackCover Blurb:
There can only be one.

In an effort to shield her foster daughter from a stalker at school, Twila relocates to a farmstead in an Appalachian radio quiet zone. Alongside battered women who have taken shelter at Cooper's Corner, Twila and her mute teen hope to find sanctuary caring for cows, chickens, and honeybees.

But their peace turns out to be short-lived when a man with an injured ankle and a flimsy story shows up in the woods. Before Twila can shuttle him off to a doctor, a straight-line windstorm rips through the area, downing trees and power lines and cutting off the well water.

As tempers flare and dark sides surface, Twila realizes she can't trust anyone. When one of the women goes missing in the night, she fears the worst has happened.

Like a tenacious queen bee, Twila plans to sting first and ask questions later. If push comes to shove, she's ready to sacrifice herself so her traumatized daughter can finally live again.

Fans of Agatha Christie are sure to enjoy this clean, fast-paced psychological thriller set in West Virginia by RWA Daphne Award-winning author Heather Day Gilbert. 

Wood Haven Press, February, 2026
Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon

THE BRUNSWICK by Callie Murray, Reviewed by Winnie #JustRead

Historical Southern World War II Novel set in Georgia and Inspired by True Events with Themes of Foster and Adoption

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
"Have hope in the face of uncertainty." 

This story illustrates why historical fiction is my favorite genre. I enjoy learning about little slices of history while reading an entertaining story built around those historical happenings. The Brunswick, with settings in Norcross, Georgia and Austria during the start of WWII, centers around the Cain family's once-grand hotel. Cora Cain has been struggling to make ends meet and has turned it into a general store. When Thomas Watkins leaves medical school and arrives in town, he asks Cora for a job and assists her in making the store more profitable.

As a family friend learns about Jewish people being persecuted in Austria, she asks if Cora would be willing to turn The Brunswick into a place for Jewish children being evacuated to safety in America until their parents could arrive to reunite with them.

"Whatever story we've written for ourselves likely won't be the story we get to live." 

Themes of compassion, charity, and love for fellow man combine to make this a beautiful tale of healing, courage, and hope despite adversity. Inspired by actual happenings, Murray has written a memorable and compelling story that has deepened my knowledge and appreciation for the history of this era. It is well-researched and the characters are realistic and engaging. The author's notes at the end of the story were a wonderful, informative addition to the book. 
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Revell through JustRead Tours. All opinions are my own. 

 

BackCover Blurb:
When Cora provides a safe haven for Jewish refugee children, she discovers that opening her doors means risking everything, including her heart.

In 1939 Georgia, far removed from the war brewing overseas, Cora Cain's world feels small--and shrinking. There, she runs The Brunswick, her family's once-grand hotel, which is now struggling as the town's general store. When Thomas Watkins arrives seeking work and solace after his mother's death, a connection sparks between them. Through Thomas, Cora glimpses a life beyond obligation and her war hero father's unpredictable moods.

But everything changes when Cora is asked to turn The Brunswick into a sanctuary for Jewish children fleeing persecution in Germany. As Cora and Thomas prepare for the children's arrival, they struggle to confront their pasts--and the prejudice of their neighbors--as their fragile hope is put to the test.

Meanwhile, in Vienna, ten-year-old Charlotte is offered refuge in America. But even with the horrors she sees around her, she wonders how her parents could possibly send her away. As war's shadow begins to reach small-town Georgia, each person must face what love demands and decide what to hold on to and what to let go. 

Revell Publishing, May, 2026

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

Buy THE BRUNSWICK at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House  

THE GIRL FROM TOMORROW'S TOWN by Naomi Musch, Reviewed by Trixi and Paula #ReleaseDay

TRIXI'S REVIEW:
This was a fascinating look inside the workings of a traveling circus! From the people who erected the many colorful tents, cooked food, mended costumes to the performers themselves. It’s like one big family where each person has a place and purpose and serves in the capacity of making magic happen for crowds in the various towns they stop at. I really enjoyed the glimpse into a world I had no idea about!

Francis is a roustabout, or man of many trades, when it comes to working in for Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. He does anything from grunt work, to making sure things run smoothly and efficiently. With war going on, he is unable to enlist due to an eye condition. But it doesn’t stop him from doing what he’s come to love, and that is working for the circus. He meets Lily along the way and that’s where this story takes a fun twist. She’s running from a family that took her in years ago from the orphan train, but it has never felt like “home”. Her only goal is to find her birth mother and a place she can finally feel like she belongs.

I really enjoyed watching life play out for these two. There are many ups and downs and the author does an excellent job in bringing these characters alive in my mind. There’s also a good many number of historical events that happened and I loved learning about these. 

This is my first book by Naomi Musch, but certainly not my last! She has a way of naturally incorporating faith and involving my heart in every aspect of this story. A wonderful novel filled with history, faith, a satisfying happily-ever-after, and many characters to come to love! Another great addition to the Enduring Hope stand-alone series. 
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. *

PAULA'S REVIEW:
I learned a lot about circus trains and life under the big top. This story was heartfelt and informative. I did not know about the tragic events of 1918 in Indiana, but Ms. Musch told a compelling story about the circumstances through her fictional Lily and Francis. Also incorporated were an orphan train connection and information about a rare eye condition. 

The characters brought the story to life especially sweet Susie, a child left parentless, who Lily took to her heart. 

Lily was a young lady who did not let adversity get her down. Francis was brave even though his eyesight limited his ability to do certain jobs and disqualified him from serving in wartime. They were both determined to survive with the help of God and the people He sent to help them. 

This was an exceptional addition to the Barbour series Enduring Hope.
*A complimentary print 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.*5 stars and a solid faith thread.

BackCover Blurb:
Past and Present Collide on the Railway

When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.

More from the Enduring Hope Series:
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee 

Barbour Fiction, June, 2026

Available in digital ebook and paperback

Buy THE GIRL FROM TOMORROW at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

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