LOYALTY'S PURSUIT by Shanon McNear, Reviewed and Hosted by Paula Shreckhise #CelebrateLit

 

About the Book

Book: Loyalty’s Pursuit

Author: Shannon McNear

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: October 13, 2026

 

She needs a husband to survive. Right now, a wife is the last thing he wants.

August 1780. After the Battle of Camden leaves British camp follower Bess Eaton widowed, expecting a child, and stranded in enemy territory, she faces two impossible choices: a return to an England that offers her nothing…or marriage to a stranger before the army marches on without her.

Backcountry loyalist Rob MacFarlane has already buried a wife and son and has no intention of marrying again at this moment. But he can’t ignore the vulnerable widow in his path. What begins as an act of duty quickly becomes something far more complicated when he offers Bess protection—and a name.

As war rages and the British cause begins to crumble, their fragile alliance is tested at every turn. Loyalties fracture. Faith is questioned. And the lines between enemy and neighbor blur. To survive, Rob must decide what allegiance truly costs—and Bess must choose whether she can trust not only the man she married…but the God she’s never fully known.

 PAULA'S REVIEW:

“God was the one true King. The only one who could never abandon them.” 

A story of the American Revolution told through the eyes of Bess Eaton a camp follower and wife of a British soldier in South Carolina. Bess becomes a widow and must wed another out of necessity or face a long journey back to England but England holds nothing for her anymore.
 

I am always drawn to Ms McNear and her stories for their authenticity and attention to historical details. She writes flawed characters who have their faith tested but still rely on God. She does not shy away from the unsavory aspects of war but chronicles events with dignity and grace.
 

The author has a beautiful way with words. They caused me to emphasize with Beth through all her trials, worrisome thoughts and difficult decisions. She portrays Rob MacFarlane as a trustworthy and honorable man who cares for family and respects God.
 

I love history about the Revolutionary War and seeing it through the characters that Ms McNear creates makes the subject come alive. She depicts the nobility of service, no matter which side of the conflict the players may be on. I enjoyed the epigraphs at the chapter beginnings as they added insight to the story.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Wild Heart Books through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5stars and a solid faith thread

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Transplanted to the far north after more than two decades in the Deep South, Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. She’s the author of twenty-one novels and novellas, not all of them in print, but her favorite roles are retired military wife, pastor’s wife, mom-of-many, mother-in-law, and grammie. When not cooking, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, hanging out with her grandbabies and basking in the beauty of the northern prairies.

 

More from Shannon

I’m so honored to be part of yet another Celebrate Lit tour! This story especially is near and dear to my heart, because it was my very first long historical after writing fantasy for decades, the book I still had in process when I submitted the proposal for my first novella, Defending Truth, and the one which gave me the courage to try that story (and genre) to begin with.

The first draft of this story took five years to complete, in between other projects and real life. It was a hard sell to start with, I knew, being set within the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution but from the British and Loyalist viewpoint. Still, it eventually netted me both of my agents (Defending Truth’s RITA® nomination didn’t hurt there, either) while garnering interest from various editors—but didn’t actually sell until last summer. That means this story languished for more than 10 years—and then the Lord Himself practically dropped this contract in my lap.

The first story of how the concept came to me can be found here:

https://colonialquills.blogspot.com/2014/07/dispelling-colonial-myths-reenactor.html

It was on my heart from the beginning to portray the romance, such as it is, in a rather unconventional way—something closer to what I imagine real life must have been for such a situation. And I deliberately steered away from the usual flowery declarations of love between my main couple, while hoping to present them in such a way that the reader has no doubt by the end of the story that they do absolutely care for each other. My dear editor with Wild Heart Books helped me shape and refine the characters and story from what might have been a more straightforward historical fiction read into more of what a historical romance reader might expect. I hope those expectations are now met, but also that my readers also come away with a fresh appreciation for how our country came to be.

Blog Stops

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 27

Holly’s Book Corner, October 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 28

Inkwell Inspirations, October 29

Betti Mace, October 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 30

Texas Book-aholic, October 31

For Him and My Family, November 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 3

Pause for Tales, November 4

Devoted To Hope, November 4

Jeanette’s Thoughts , November 5

Maureen’s Musings, November 6

Books You Can Feel Good About, November 7

Lyssa Loves Books, November 8

Simple Harvest Reads, November 8 (Guest Review from Donna)

Cover Lover Book Review, November 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Shannon is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://gleam.io/AJy7n/loyaltys-pursuit-celebration-tour-giveaway

DEADLY CHARADE by Kelly Underwood and Lynette Eason, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

(FBI New Recruits Book #1): Clean Suspense Thriller with Undercover FBI Investigations, Fake Relationship, Special Agents, and Workplace Romance

 
PAULA'S REVIEW
Ever since I learned about the Amber Room that was dismantled during the threat of WWII, my interest is piqued when it crops up in a story I am reading. This book has a interesting new slant on the mystery of WWII artifacts and the entities who are after them. 

This writing duo has offered a suspenseful, intriguing scenario involving a rabbit statue and everyone from the FBI to a Russian organization is after it. 

The FBI agents Kira and Bryce are going undercover as a married couple to try to get into a secret auction covertly selling stolen art. The characters are thrown into dangerous situations but the authors make it so believable and quite adventurous. “Things just went from impossibly bad to apocalyptic in one second.” 

I enjoyed the relationship between Kira and Bryce because they are attracted to each other and have to pretend be married but at the same time they must focus on being professional. A key element is how their backgrounds play into their present circumstances. For Kira, it is a spiritual awakening and Bryce has to follow through in his faith to be able to forgive. 

This is a brilliant start to a new series by fantastic collaboration.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine. 5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:

One wrong move and their cover is blown. So their charade sparking real feelings is the last twist they can afford.

Special Agent Kira Miller's new career at the FBI has started--in translations. It's not the opportunity she was hoping for to show off her skills, until she detects a lead in some paperwork. Now assigned an undercover role, she's in her element as she gathers intel on an art smuggling ring. She's daunted not by the mission but by her cover--posing as a married woman to the fake husband she met less than twenty-four hours earlier.

Special Agent Bryce Lambert's assignment to go undercover as a newlywed couple with Kira has the two of them moving next door to the prime suspects, and a relationship is the last thing he wants, fake or real. With secret auctions and hidden treasures, there's plenty to keep them busy--if only they can play the part their lives and careers depend upon while keeping their own hearts in check.

Romantic suspense novelists Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood collaborate in this fast-paced, clean thriller delivering fake-dating tension, forced proximity, and FBI intrigue--perfect for fans of Elizabeth Goddard, Irene Hannon, Dani Pettrey, and edge-of-your-seat reads.

 

Revell Publishing, October, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook

Buy DEADLY CHARADE at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

A K-9 CHRISTMAS BLESSING by Tina Radcliffe, Reviewed by Kim #ReleaseDay

An Uplifting Inspirational Romance 

(K-9 Companions Book 50)

KIM'S REVIEW:
I always love reading a Tina Radcliffe story! The small towns she creates make me want to move there. I love the sense of community, how everyone helps one another, and how they’re always there for each other.

I really enjoyed returning to Aspen Creek and catching up with the characters. Nate and Jo’s story is a second-chance romance, one of my favorite tropes, and I loved watching them rekindle their relationship. Their romance was so sweet, and I especially enjoyed seeing Jo’s personal growth throughout the story. She was hanging on to things both emotionally and physically that she had to work through and I loved how she did that.

I’m really hoping Maggie gets her own story in a future installment because I absolutely loved her character! If you are a big animal lover, you will love that animals play such a big part in this story. Jo is opening an animal rescue, and Nate is a veterinarian, making this a great read for animal lovers.

This book is also full of Christmas feels, with sleigh rides, Christmas parties, and tree lighting and decorating. If you’re ready to kick off your Christmas reading, this may be just the book for you!

I always enjoy visiting the charming towns Tina Radcliffe creates, and I’m already looking forward to the next installment in the series!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light 4 1/2 stars! 

BackCover Blurb:
Can a sweet Christmas K-9

Make this sudden reunion bright?

After rescuing an injured beagle, therapy dog trainer Jo Webster reluctantly turns to the new veterinarian in town, who’s also her former fiancé. But when Nate Morris suggests a prosthetic leg for the wounded dog, there’s no way Jo can afford it. Reluctantly, she agrees to a part-time job at his clinic during the Christmas season to pay for the treatment. Soon, Jo learns Nate is not the same man she broke off her engagement to years ago. If they can learn to forgive each other for past hurts, they might build something new and beautiful together for the holidays—and forever.

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

Love Inspired Publishing, October, 2026

Available in digital ebook, and paperback at Amazon, and Christianbook

 

WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS by Elizabeth Goddard, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

Mercy Ridge Book #1: High Octane Romantic Suspense in the Pacific Northwest with Secrets and Action in the Mountains

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"He believed God's timing was perfect and that what was meant to be revealed would be, when the time was right. If and when the silence breaks, that's because it was meant to."

Intelligence analyst Sarah Ellison is carrying a boatload of secrets. Traveling toward the Cascade Mountains, she comes to the realization that her enemies may be closer than she thinks. Determined to bring her brother's killer to justice, she is on a self imposed mission to locate buried government secrets that could reveal essential information with regards to her family's safety. But first, Sarah needs a guide and former Navy SEAL Ryder Goodwin is just the man, whether he knows it yet or not.

Call it a man's intuition or simply years of tactical training, but Ryder is absolutely sure that Sarah Ellison is not telling him the whole truth and nothing but the truth. What he isn't so sure about is whether or not to take her up Blackspire Mountain on what he considers a highly dangerous and likely foolish venture. Predictably, they are drawn into a dangerous off the books operation which history has already proven to be lethal.

Sarah and Ryder took me awhile to figure out, their dynamics were a bit awkward, though to be fair, neither was divulging everything they knew. The complexity of the setting sent me sifting through the details in order to glean the essentials. Nevertheless, the ending managed to pull off several major unexpected twists coupled with a soft, romantic landing that made this first book in the series a nice glimpse into what might come next in Mercy Ridge!
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars

BackCover Blurb:
A deathbed confession. A decades-old secret. A mountain that holds the answers—and danger closing in.

When intelligence analyst Sarah Ellison learns of her grandfather's deathbed confession connected to her brother's murder, she's determined to protect her remaining family. After further investigation, she discovers the disclosed information points to a decades-old government secret buried deep in the Cascade Mountains. With this knowledge, she looks for a guide who knows the terrain like the back of their hand.

After his father's death in a tragic mountain accident, former Navy SEAL Ryder Goodwin no longer guides for the family business. At first, Ryder refuses to help Sarah, but he sees the trouble chasing her and can't stand by while someone brings danger to his small-town mountain community.

Ryder and Sarah gear up to climb the mountain in a race against time and a looming storm. When the danger escalates, their search for answers shifts to a survival mission. Their only chance to make it through involves trusting each other and confronting the truth no one wants them to find.

This gripping romantic-suspense thriller set in the Pacific Northwest from USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard is a series opener that will sweep you away in a rush of adrenaline.

Revell Publishing, August, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook

Buy WHEN THE SILENCE BREAKS at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

TO WIN A WAGER by Grace Hitchcock, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney #ReleaseDay

BEST LAID PLANS Series #3

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Tonight, the terror I have been dreading for decades has become all too real."

Alerted by the sound of intruders during the dark of night, Tess Hale is deeply disturbed when her father frantically pleads with her to flee. Taking only a few possessions, a small sum of money and cryptic instructions she climbs down an outer wall, and escapes with only her knives and a trusty canine as protection. Meandering her way towards their small island cottage, Tess has no indication that she has been followed until former spy and rising clan chieftain Jamie Malcolm makes his presence known.

Jamie Malcolm has no desire to cause bodily harm to the lovely young woman whom he has pursued. Apparently she has no idea why her home was raided or her father's life threatened, but Jamie knows full well that Tess holds the key to the future of his clan. It's complicated, it has been complicated for years and now he needs to gain the trust of the one person whose birth set all of the present circumstances into motion. He needs a plan, or perhaps a wager? With a vast treasure on the line, there are bound to be more villains than heroes.

This adventurous romance starts off quickly and maintains a steady speed throughout all the ups and downs of escape and pursuit, coming full circle, back to where it all began. In spite of Jaime's determined self-control, he and Tess become united for life, citing reasons of self-preservation, and while he thought it was to protect her, in the end it is Tess who protects him. An endearing, faith filled love story that gathers everyone in the series together for quite a grand finale! 
*I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.75 stars

 

BackCover Blurb:

A Regency-era enemies-to-lovers romance set in the magnificent Scottish Isles

Tess Hale has always been taught to fend for herself, but she never needed to until the night bounty hunters come knocking. It's 1813 in Great Britain, and Tess's best laid plans crumble when her father sends her alone in the dead of night to an island cottage to escape them. She finds herself in a world of warring clans she didn't know existed.

After a decade as a spy separated from his clan, Jamie Malcom has a duty to fulfill as next in line as chief-but his absence means he must earn his people's loyalty. He pursues a treasure stolen from his clan long ago, and it leads him straight to Tess.

As Tess grapples with her past, Jamie vows to protect her future—but lies revealed shatter the trust they had been building. For purposes beyond themselves, they are thrust into a marriage neither of them wanted . . . at first.

In the finale to the Best Laid Plans series, Grace Hitchcock invites readers to the sweeping Highlands and beautiful Scottish Isles with a romance guaranteed to delight.

"Grace Hitchcock strikes a perfect balance of adventure, intrigue, and breathless romance. Who doesn’t love a Scotland setting, a tortured rogue, and a heroine with impressive knife-fighting skills?"

—Allison Pittman 💟, award-winning author of Laura’s Shadow

 

Kregel Publishing, October, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook

Buy TO WIN A WAGER at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

THE RESURRECTION OF EVANIA JAMES by Jaime Jo Wright, Reviewed and Hosted by Rebecca for #PartnersInCrime Tour

 

THE RESURRECTION OF EVANIA JAMES

by Jaime Jo Wright

October 5 - 30, 2026 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

If walls could talk, what nightmare might they expose?

1879

When Eloise James's sister, Evania, goes missing after being admitted to an asylum, Eloise is determined to find her sibling but instead discovers evidence of dying patients and missing remains. Wannabe journalist Silas Dobbs has his own suspicions that something more nefarious is at work, and that black market sales may originate at the asylum. Together, they are intent on learning whether Evania is alive, or if her body has also been stolen. But unraveling a web of underground resurrectionists proves daunting, and the dead cannot share their secrets.

Present Day

Tilly Thompson is horrified to find historical human remains entombed in a wall of the Gothic mansion her grandfather just purchased, launching her into an investigation of the original owners' questionable past. The James family legacy harbors a darkness tightly woven through decades of secrets, but the past refuses to remain ensnared by silence. Will revealing the truth resurrect dangers best kept buried forever?

Jaime Jo Wright masterfully weaves a dual-timeline gothic suspense novel that brings together a haunting historical tale and a shadowy modern-day mystery. For fans of atmospheric thrillers, spooky reads, the Victorian era, creepy mansions, and dark family secrets.

Book Details:

Genre: Gothic Fiction; Christian Mystery & Suspense
Published by: Bethany House Publishers
Publication Date: October 27, 2026
Number of Pages: 336 Pbk
ISBN: 9780764246258 (ISBN10: 0764246259)
Book Links: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | BookBub | Baker Book House

Read an excerpt:

REBECCA'S REVIEW:

"I can only watch. Listen. Whisper. Then I am silent. Because walls cannot speak. Even when we want to."

Tilly Thompson wasn't sure that she wanted the walls to speak any louder than they already had; finding skeletal remains encased in the walls along a central staircase was enough, thank you very much. On the other hand, she could hardly ignore the precious voice that had obviously been prematurely snuffed out. Working alongside a surprising ally, Tilly determines to discover what might have happened in the historic James Mansion that her grandfather recently purchased for the two of them. As it turns out, memories have a voice of their own.

Over a century earlier, Eloise James is horrified when her overbearing father sends her dear sister Evania to a nearby asylum. Defying her father's dictates, Eloise sneaks away to visit the facility, only to discover that her sister has been declared deceased, and that her remains have been taken to an undisclosed location. Suspecting foul play, Eloise stumbles someone else interested in her quest for the truth, which appears to be much darker than the dead of night when Evania disappeared.

On the one hand, this novel is an exceptional duet of mysteries, but if you read the author's endnotes, which I highly encourage that you do, this story also hints at the power memories can wield, either imprisoning us behind walls of hurt and brokenness or freeing us to expose those same hurts to the power of hope and healing. Our descendants depend on us to make the right choice. It's called a legacy.
•I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the publisher. I also purchased a copy. All opinions stated above are entirely my own.4.5 stars       

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

Author Bio:

Jaime Jo Wright is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than eighteen novels and three novellas, including Christy Award-winner and ECPA bestseller The Vanishing at Castle Moreau, Christy Award and Daphne du Maurier Award-winner The House on Foster Hill, Christy Award-winner Night Falls on Predicament Avenue, and Carol Award-winner The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond. She lives in Wisconsin with her family and fabulous felines.

Learn more at

JaimeWrightBooks.com
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads
BookBub - @JaimeJoWright
Instagram - @jaimejowright
Threads - @jaimejowright
YouTube - @madlitmusings
Spotify - MadLit Musings
Facebook - @JaimeJoWright

 

Tour Participants:

Click through the other tour stops for can’t-miss reviews, insider interviews, exclusive guest posts, and more chances to win!

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

 

Don't Make a Grave Mistake… Enter to Win

This giveaway is hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for The Resurrection of Evania James. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

The Resurrection of Evania James by Jaime Jo Wright | Paperback + Gift Card

Can't see the giveaway? Click Here!

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

CANDY APPLE KISSES by Amy Clipston, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

A cozy, low-spice fall romance

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Sometimes I wish I could go back to when all we did was play in the orchard and sit in our fort. Things were much simpler then."

Jake Hughes had always been her best friend growing up, so when he reaches out for her help, Emily Carmichael suspends her life in the city, and drives straight towards her childhood home in Splendid Lake. Local competition has not been kind to the Hughes family, leaving Jake with the burden of keeping their multi-generational apple orchard solvent. When Emily's creativity inspires new life for the property, Jake's parents reluctantly give their blessing and everything is going just fine until . . . Jake's on again, (mostly) off again girlfriend shows up to stake her claim.

Despite seeming to travel a rather typical pathway at first, this story gradually deepened its stride and gently probed into matters of grief, insecurities, and the sort of misconceptions that carve deep ruts into the lives of characters. In the end, "friends to more" doesn't get any better (or "sweeter") than this.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars

 
BackCover Blurb:
This autumn, love is in the air.

Artist Emily Carmichael has always considered Splendid Lake her home, but she never imagined she would ever return. However, when she learns her childhood best friend, Jake Hughes, is struggling to save the beloved Hughes Family Orchard, she doesn't hesitate to pack her bags and head back to the North Carolina mountains--even if it means battling a corporate giant and resisting the temptation of too many candy apples.

For Jake, the orchard is more than just a business; it's a living legacy, a bond with his father and a promise to his family. As Jake and Emily work side-by-side to prepare for the orchard's centennial anniversary, long-held feelings, once hidden beneath years of friendship, begin to surface. For Jake, Emily's return illuminates what's been missing in his life, and for Emily, being with Jake stirs long-dormant emotions she's too scared to name. The air is crisp, the apples are sweet, and the sparks? They're flying higher than a bonfire.

But with Jake's ex-girlfriend's dramatic reappearance and the mounting pressure to keep the orchard from failing, their budding romance is put to the test. Can these two best friends turn a season of chaos into a lifetime of love, or will their romance fall flat before the first frost?

Thomas Nelson Publishing, July, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy CANDY APPLE KISSES at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE RESURRECTION OF EVANIA JAMES by Jaime Jo Wright, Reviewed and Hosted by Paula for #PartnersInCrime tour

THE RESURRECTION OF EVANIA JAMES

by Jaime Jo Wright

October 5 - 30, 2026 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

If walls could talk, what nightmare might they expose?

1879

When Eloise James's sister, Evania, goes missing after being admitted to an asylum, Eloise is determined to find her sibling but instead discovers evidence of dying patients and missing remains. Wannabe journalist Silas Dobbs has his own suspicions that something more nefarious is at work, and that black market sales may originate at the asylum. Together, they are intent on learning whether Evania is alive, or if her body has also been stolen. But unraveling a web of underground resurrectionists proves daunting, and the dead cannot share their secrets.

Present Day

Tilly Thompson is horrified to find historical human remains entombed in a wall of the Gothic mansion her grandfather just purchased, launching her into an investigation of the original owners' questionable past. The James family legacy harbors a darkness tightly woven through decades of secrets, but the past refuses to remain ensnared by silence. Will revealing the truth resurrect dangers best kept buried forever?

Jaime Jo Wright masterfully weaves a dual-timeline gothic suspense novel that brings together a haunting historical tale and a shadowy modern-day mystery. For fans of atmospheric thrillers, spooky reads, the Victorian era, creepy mansions, and dark family secrets.

Book Details:

Genre: Gothic Fiction; Christian Mystery & Suspense
Published by: Bethany House Publishers
Publication Date: October 27, 2026
Number of Pages: 336 Pbk
ISBN: 9780764246258 (ISBN10: 0764246259)
Book Links: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | BookBub | Baker Book House

Read an excerpt:

 PAULA'S REVIEW:

“The dynamics of a small town were always a bit like a soap opera.”

A wonderfully mysterious, even spooky dual time story. Just the thing to read on an October evening. And the curious thing is that it is based on real things that happened at the end of the 19th Century. 

The prose was flowing, the characters believable and the plot was priceless. This might be my favorite by this author, although I have read and loved every one of Ms Wright’s books. 

 

Told in dual timelines the mysteries are not restricted to the past. In fact the past at times defines what is in the present. From confinement in an insane asylum and body snatching in the 1890s, to DNA technology in the present, this was a mesmerizing story that was hard to put down. I especially like the parts where the mansion was a character in the plot. I appreciated the inspirational slant to the story and the faith of the characters. 

“Legacy is the memories that live in its children. The memories that become the choices and the consequences and the blessings. A legacy can be one of broken pieces or a legacy can be one of faith.”
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through PICT tours. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5+stars and a solid faith thread

Author Bio:

Jaime Jo Wright is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than eighteen novels and three novellas, including Christy Award-winner and ECPA bestseller The Vanishing at Castle Moreau, Christy Award and Daphne du Maurier Award-winner The House on Foster Hill, Christy Award-winner Night Falls on Predicament Avenue, and Carol Award-winner The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond. She lives in Wisconsin with her family and fabulous felines.

Learn more at

JaimeWrightBooks.com
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads
BookBub - @JaimeJoWright
Instagram - @jaimejowright
Threads - @jaimejowright
YouTube - @madlitmusings
Spotify - MadLit Musings
Facebook - @JaimeJoWright

 

Tour Participants:

Click through the other tour stops for can’t-miss reviews, insider interviews, exclusive guest posts, and more chances to win!

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

 

Don't Make a Grave Mistake… Enter to Win

This giveaway is hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for The Resurrection of Evania James. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

The Resurrection of Evania James by Jaime Jo Wright | Paperback + Gift Card

Can't see the giveaway? Click Here!

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

BOOKED FOR LOVE Anthology, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

Nine Authors Collection

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Quite the collection of stories that range from funny to suspenseful and all are based on matchmaking, libraries, book clubs, and blind dates with a book or silent book clubs. 

Something for everyone if you like books about books. Some stories had romantic matches and some were just about friendships and one had an unexpected match but all had a faith thread.

My favorite was the humorous Turn About is Fair Play by Chautona Havig. But all were worth the read. 

This is the first time reading some of these authors but I have read others before. 

All were enjoyable. Read them and see which one is your favorite.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Ivory Keys Press. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*4.5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Book clubs have always been about more than stories. What happens when a group of faith-filled matchmakers uses their love of books to pair hearts?

Matchmakers have been around since long before musicals began singing their praises. Seniors at church, friend groups, and even families try to pair people of like faith, shared passions, or familiar community. But what if your people, book people, got together and drew two book-loving (or soon will be!) hearts together? It’s a match made in literary (if not literal) heaven!

Love Twice Served by Malissa Chapin
Love is a dish occasionally served twice. In this gentle, faith-filled, second‑chance romance, split between the bustle of 1940s Harvey Houses and the comfort of a 1980s book club, you’ll enter a Midwestern town where community, grace, and a carefully guarded heart find their way back to hope.

Turnabout Is Fair Match by Chautona Havig
Imogen thought Olemann’s Books and their book club would match her grandson with the perfect bookish girl and heal his broken heart. But no one (including the Lord!) is following her carefully orchestrated plot, and the wrong people are getting matched! Or are they?

Connected by Susanna Haymond
Emily never imagined her grandmother’s book club would set her up with a cop who not only determines to keep her safe from a relentless stalker, but who she can also trust with her heart. But threats become attacks, and one question remains: will Josh stop this guy before tragedy strikes?

Match to Be Had by Martha Artyomenko Hurley
When newly widowed Mattie returns to her hometown, Elaine decides to rekindle a friendship and embroil Mattie in her latest matchmaking scheme at her newly formed Silent Book Club group. Can these two find the joy of friendship while helping others find love?

Hatched Marts by Joanne Markey
When discussing a romcom becomes solving major problems in the church, is a geriatric book club really the answer? Merry isn’t so sure, but she accepts the challenge and reinvents blind dates… with a book, that is. Add a bad guy and knitting needles, and book club just got way more exciting.

Monday Meddlers by Marisa Masterson
Introducing a book club that would rather scheme and matchmake than actually discuss the book. When the local librarian becomes their latest focus, secrets, laughter, and a little chaos follow. Will they reconcile the broken romance between a stubborn librarian and a proud rancher?

The Book Club on Willow Lane by Dannielle Norwood
When Nevaeh’s boss drags her into a book club filled with deeply intrusive women, she finds herself pushed into awkward conversations, unexpected friendships, and something even more terrifying: real connection. What was wrong with her nice, safe, AI chat bot boyfriend, Max?

The Teacher's Secret by Caitlin Nikolai
She's running from the past. He feels broken from his. When a meddling book club brings them together, will he be enough to protect her? Together, can they find peace and healing in Jesus' Name?

The Straight Path Home by Mishael Austin Witty
After a workplace accident, Jonah Calloway moves to Chokeberry Falls and finds a steady job, a quiet apartment, and a book club that adopts him. But when anonymous notes appear and danger edges closer, Jonah must decide between running or trusting that God might be leading him down a path he never expected.

Join the book club. Fall in love. Order your copy today.

Ivory Keys Press, October, 2026

Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon 

 

AN ACCUSING AT THE OLD BAILEY by Erica Vetsch, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula #NewRelease

 REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"She had the unreal feeling that in spite of their well-laid plans, she would wake up one morning to find herself married to Sir Bertrand Thorndike."

Their engagement began with a spontaneous kiss and a ruse, a way for a trustworthy friend and comrade in the Agency to protect her from a greedy cousin's intentions to contest her vast fortune, inherited from a father who had never claimed the role until his deathbed. If she didn't know him so well, Philippa Cashel would suspect that Bertie was dragging his feet about the entire affair. It had already gone too far, family and friends were making plans, giving gifts and offering congratulations.

Lord Bertrand Thorndike had no intention of breaking his fake engagement to Philippa Cashel, he just had to convince his betrothed that she felt the same way. The fact that he had been given a new assignment by the Duke of Haverly fed into his plans to slow walk their break-up and find the courage to tell Philippa how he really felt. He never imagined that a contest amongst international scientists would be interrupted by a murder and that the perpetrator would cast one of his friends as the villain.

Coupling a daring adventure, a by-product of solving a high profile murder with ripple effects, with a romance that just needed a firm nudge of encouragement, and you have a satisfying story that took just a bit of time to develop, but when it did, I can scarcely wait to go back and read it again!

" . . . she finally had the one thing she had longed for most. A safe home for her heart." 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars
 

PAULA'S REVIEW:
I love the world that Ms. Vestch has created in Regency England in 1816. The Haverlys, friends, and relatives are working undercover for the crown. This book deals with Sir Bertrand Thorndike and his fiancée Phillipa Cashall. But not only is Bertie tasked with two pressing cases, he is also trying to get Pippa to realize he wants the tenuous fake relationship to be authentic.
 

Case one is tracking down a possible subversive movement against the government and case two, a friend is falsely accused of murder. Time is of the essence.
 

The story is tense and immersive and also delves into the emotions of both Bertie and Pippa as their wedding date approaches. Underpinning it all is a fantastic faith thread. With themes of loyalty, philanthropy, self reflection and forgiveness, this is a must read.
 

It is always fun to see what is happening at the charity run by Pippa as well as behind-the-scenes of the investigations by the Haverly team and the changing relationships between the nobility and the constabulary.
 

Top notch writing and a great plot make this a worthy read. I cannot wait for the next installment.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Kregel and NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
The thrilling finale to the highly rated Regency romance series

Sir Bertrand Thorndike is on another mission-this one in the scientific community. But when a simple game of espionage becomes a murder investigation and Bertie's friend Rhynwick Davies is the accused, Bertie enlists the help of his pseudo-fiancée Philippa Cashel to spare Rhynwick from the gallows.

Together, they delve into poisons, passions, and peril. With the true killer still on the loose, Bertie must balance proving Rhynwick's innocence with his plans to persuade Philippa to make their false engagement real.

The final installment in the Of Cloaks & Daggers series from a New York Times best-selling author will be the biggest test yet of Bertie and Philippa's skill and bravery-and of their love. 

 

Kregel Publishing, October, 2026

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

Buy AN ACCUSING AT THE OLD BAILEY at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

THE CHRISTMAS COURIER by Roseanna M. White, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas #ReleaseDay

A WWII Historical Novella

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“Sometimes it was only against a backdrop of darkness that human eyes could even see the light they needed to focus on. Sometimes it was in the hardest times that they could see the Lord most clearly too.”

One of the reasons historical fiction is my favorite genre is that I enjoy learning about little slices of history while reading an engrossing story. Roseanna M. White is a pro at using unusual and interesting historical settings, facts, and people to wrap her stories around. It was fascinating to learn of the traboules in Lyon, France—hidden, covered passageways that residents of the city would use to cut through buildings and stairwells to get from one street to another. They were used by the French Resistance in WWII and also by workers in the silk trade to keep the fabric clean and dry while transporting it

The Christmas Courier features Resistance members Madeleine Perrin and Daniel Raymond, longtime friends who smuggle messages to the Resistance leaders. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and change amid the danger of their activities. They are realistic and engaging, and I was quickly swept up in their story.

White’s stories are always well-researched and intriguing, and this one is true to form. Elements of faith, courage, family ties, and forgiveness add depth to the tale. Although this is a novella, it feels complete, satisfying, and unrushed.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Tyndale through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

BackCover Blurb: 
In World War II France, the future Madeleine Perrin and Daniel Raymond hope for is in grave peril when the Nazis imprison Daniel, a courier for the Resistance network. But a centuries-old law soon paves the way for a Christmas Eve wedding that becomes both a celebration and a daring rescue in this historical romance.

1943. Lyon, France. After bidding her students farewell for the holidays, Madeleine Perrin is looking forward to a quiet, simple Christmas at home with her mother. With the war raging on and rations tight, she knows it will be up to her to make the day festive and find special ways to remember the papa she lost and honor his love for Christmas. But first, Madeleine must smuggle secret messages hidden in her students' essays to the Resistance network. She never expects the person waiting to receive them is her childhood best friend, the man who broke her heart.

Daniel Raymond has thrown himself into his work as courier for the Resistance, carefully concealing his Jewish ancestry that, if discovered by the Nazis, could put his life at risk. Haunted by regret about the day Madeleine professed her love and he turned her away, Daniel longs to make things right. When he sees her again, he dares to hope for reconciliation―and realizes the love he once denied has only grown deeper.

As Christmas nears and Daniel recovers from a wound sustained in a courier run, forgiveness and romance soon blossom between Daniel and Madeleine and the two begin planning a future together. But when a mission goes wrong and Daniel is captured by the Gestapo, Madeleine must turn to her Resistance allies―and a centuries-old law―to attempt a dangerous rescue before it's too late.

-A standalone WWII historical Christmas novella inspired by true events
 -A low-spice second-chance holiday romance with a friends-to-lovers trope
-Compelling Christian fiction about brave spies and daring escapes for fans of Sarah Sundin, Kristen Harmel, Lynn Austin, and Sara Ackerman 

Tyndale Fiction, October, 2026

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook

Buy THE CHRISTMAS COURIER at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

EVERY GIVEN DAY by Cathy Gohlke, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

Gripping Historical Fiction Set During the Early 20th Century About a Groundbreaking Medical Discovery

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"I've received a letter from my sister, in New York . . . Marion needs me. She suffers from tuberculosis."

Leaving her teaching position in Pennsylvania, Gwendolyn Armstrong travels to New York with the intention of caring for her sister while tutoring her niece and nephew, only to learn upon arrival that Marion Bennett has been moved to a sanatorium and the household left under the supervision of a very capable housekeeper. While their father travels for extensive periods of time, Gwen finds herself tasked with decisions she never expected to make, and on the rare occasions when Russell Bennett is home, close proximity with her sister's charismatic husband proves awkward due to their shared history.

As the weeks and then months go by, Gwen grows to love her niece and nephew, Clara and Alistair, while also becoming more and more concerned about their father's clandestine business practices and his seeming disregard for the welfare of not only his wife, but his two children. When tragedy strikes the household, Gwen determines to do whatever it takes to keep her dwindling family intact. Faith in God was not something that Gwen deemed important, until a kind, compassionate physician extends grace upon grace, coaxing her to consider trusting in the One who could lead her through the valley of the shadow and beside the still waters. With God, nothing was impossible.

The historical backdrop of this story is astonishing. Having no previous knowledge regarding the development of insulin or the drastic measures taken to preserve life before its discovery, I was equally fascinated and heartbroken. Despite losing patience with Gwen due to her stubborn determination to depend on no one but herself, I reluctantly admit that it made her more relatable. The children were precious souls, Dr. Malcolm McNeill a steady presence, the housekeeper an absolute dear, and even Russell proved himself to be exactly who you might expect from a tuxedo clad villain.

Excellent book! Highly recommended! A blessed reminder of what a gift every given day should be.

*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars

 
BackCover Blurb:
Inspired by true events, Christy Hall of Fame author Cathy Gohlke delivers a powerful new historical novel weaving together the discovery of insulin—a breakthrough that revolutionized modern medicine—and one woman's brave fight to cling to her family and hope against unspeakable odds.

New York City, 1918. When schoolteacher Gwendolyn Armstrong learns of her sister's worsening illness, she travels to Marion's stately home to tutor her young niece and nephew, kept from school by the Spanish flu outbreak. Though the family lives in luxury, Gwen is wary of Marion's sophisticated, often-absent husband, Russell, who once cast Gwen aside for her sister, leaving wounds that never fully healed.

As Marion's health declines, a sense of foreboding settles over the family. Gwen observes strangers coming and going from Russell's study at all hours, and her lingering distrust turns to suspicion that he is hiding something that could threaten the family's safety and security. But when the deadly flu claims victims among the family and mansion staff, Gwen and her nephew, Alistair, are forced to accept terrible losses caused by the epidemic followed soon after by his own fatal diagnosis of juvenile diabetes.

When a compassionate doctor becomes both an advocate and friend, chasing down every promising medical development in the race for a cure, Gwen clings to each shred of hope. But as Russell's clandestine dealings erupt into a shattering revelation, she must summon every ounce of courage she possesses. With Alistair's life hanging in the balance, Gwen pleads for a faith she doesn't yet possess, realizing she must surrender him to God and the possibility of a miracle that could save him and reshape her future in ways she never imagined.

 

-Gripping, hope-filled Christian fiction with a dash of romance inspired by true events
-Perfect for book clubs and fans of historical women's fiction by Lynn Austin, Rachel Fordham, and Jennifer Chiaverini
-Includes discussion questions and themes of family, forgiveness, and redemption 

 

Tyndale Fiction, September, 2026

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

Buy EVERY GIVEN DAY at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House 

 

 

 

CASCADE by Linda K. Rodante, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

 Book 3 of The Waterfall Mysteries, 

Christian romantic mystery and suspense series, small town, Tennessee mountains

PAULA'S REVIEW:

This third book in the Waterfall Mysteries is an exciting story that brings old friends back together and new friends along for the ride.

 
Witnesses to a shooting, Crista and Sid meet near a remote waterfall while hiking. Things get intriguing and mystifying when they learn who is shot and his connections to the local hospital. They are targeted for what they know and for what they don’t know they know.

 
Dramatic and well plotted, there are several suspects but it was hard to pin down who the actual shooter was. I liked the setting of the waterfall hike and even the hospital scenes were interesting. 

A key element was the faith of Sid and Crista. Crista was growing in her walk with God and prayed for the victim, David, even though it got her in trouble with the hospital staff. Sid was trying to forgive himself for an incident in the past, but he knew that Christ died for him. He only wanted to reflect the love of Jesus to others. 

A fine conclusion to the series, it gives your brain a workout.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author through JustRead tours. 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 fresh start in the Tennessee mountains was supposed to bring peace. Instead, it brought a killer.

Crista Henson fled to a quiet Tennessee town to rebuild her shattered life, trading her past for a fresh start as a vacation planner and a deeper reliance on God. She wants peace. Instead, she finds herself tangled in a deadly web of secrets with enough suspects to challenge Hercule Poirot himself. She never planned on playing amateur sleuth—and she certainly didn't plan on Sid Martin.

Sid is running from his own devastating past, swearing off the wilderness forever.
But when a friend lures him back, a desperate cry for help and a brutal attempted murder force him to confront his guilt and his fears.

As their investigation expands and danger closes in, can Crista and Sid narrow the suspects in time to prevent their own demise?

Clean Romance
Brainy Mystery
Multiple suspects
Twists and turns
Suspense
Small town
Tennessee mountains
Rock climbing
Beautiful waterfalls
Swoony hero
Strong, relatable heroine
Faith and forgiveness 

September, 2026

Available at Amazon in digital ebook, and paperback 

WEIGHT OF GUILT by Christy Barritt, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

FOG LAKE: HOMECOMING (Book One)

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Faith usually involves taking the next step before you feel ready."

When Wren Loveless' long lost younger brother literally walks out of the woods behind their family property; she and her two sisters can scarcely believe their eyes. In fact, should they believe their eyes? Christian was seven years old the night he vanished without a trace. Now he is a seventeen year old young man with absolutely no explanation for where he has been for the past ten years.

Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Agent Nash Hendricks is on medical leave and hoping to rinse his mind of the incident that left him with a gunshot wound and bitter memories. Fog Lake seemed like the perfect place to do just that . . . until a dark haired beauty with an energetic canine asks for his help.

An absolutely fascinating blend of casework and confusing details! 

*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars. 

 

BackCover Blurb:
Ten years ago, seven-year-old Christian Loveless vanished without a trace. On the anniversary of that nightmare, a teenage boy walks back into his family’s life claiming to be Christian.

Hairstylist and single mother Wren Loveless wants desperately to believe her brother has come home. But small things don’t add up, and she can’t afford to watch her family fall apart again. When a man who might have ties to Christian’s disappearance turns up dead less than a mile from her house, Wren starts to wonder whether the truth is something far more dangerous than mistaken identity.

TBI Agent Nash Hendricks came to Fog Lake to escape his own past, not to get tangled in someone else’s. But he can’t ignore his next-door neighbors—a family clinging to a fragile reunion while someone in the woods watches and waits. The closer he gets to Wren, the clearer it becomes that protecting her may mean uncovering a truth she isn’t ready to hear.
Wren will do anything to keep her family safe. But before she can uncover what happened to Christian ten years ago, she has to answer an even more dangerous question: Who exactly has come home?

Weight of Guilt is Book 1 of the Fog Lake: Homecoming trilogy—three sisters, one missing brother, and a decade of secrets. 

River Heights Publishing, August, 2026

Buy WEIGHT OF GUILT in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon