THE RULES OF FALLING FOR YOU by Mollie Rushmeyer, Reviewed by Paula #ReleaseDay

A Regency-Infused Contemporary Rom-Com with the Brother's Best Friend Trope

PAULA'S REVIEW:
This book is comedic genius, pairing contemporary rom-com with everything Austen and Regency.

Zoe and her friend Eden have a podcast based on their love for a fictional author: A. Nathaniel Gladwin. To be certain I had not missed another Regency author, I quickly looked up Gladwin. The author was that convincing!

Zoe is Miss Control as evidenced in her planning and many lists including her 30 by 30 list of things to accomplish in finding a spouse according to the standards of the Regency period. Let the fun begin when Eden’s brother Harrison helps the girls with filming. Zoe has had a crush on Harrison since she and Eden roped him into watching all things Austen when they were mere girls. Harrison is the voice of reason: “Surrender is acknowledging the fact that God has it under control, has our backs and loves us. We don’t have to carry the burden of making everything right.”

I loved the banter and a hero who could quote Austen and was brave enough to don a cravat and dance the period dances at a ball. Delightful mishaps abound at the Singles Regency Retreat that brought back scenes from Austen adaptations. This was an Austen lover’s dream of a story right down to the wet-shirt-Darcy want to be! Loads of fun with a plot that mimicked a Jane Austen novel.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread.

BackCover Blurb:
She thought she knew the rules of love. Turns out, love makes its own.

The perfect match can't be far--certainly not at a Regency-themed singles' retreat--or so podcaster Zoe Dufour believes. After years of creating content for her relationship podcast inspired by Regency etiquette and era-appropriate rules for romance, she knows her listeners have anticipated this retreat. But she also attends with expectations of her own: finding the ideal modern-day gentleman who can meet every one of the nonnegotiables on her checklist.

Harrison Lundquist, Zoe's podcast producer and best friend's brother, reluctantly agrees to tag along on the retreat to capture footage while seeking a career-advancing promotion. He views the retreat as ridiculous. And Zoe's methods for finding her real-life Mr. Darcy? Downright absurd! But as he films her whirlwind dates, his growing feelings for her are sidelined by suitors vying for her attention. When Zoe realizes her checklist for the man of her dreams might be holding her back, she must decide if she's willing to rewrite her rules and take a chance on the person who has been there all along. 

 

Bethany House Publishing, September, 2025

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

Buy THE RULES OF FALLING FOR YOU at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS CAROL by Melody Carlson, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt #ReleaseDay

A Christmas Novella

TRIXI'S REVIEW:
I always look forward to reading a Christmas novella by Melody Carlson! There’s nothing like sitting down for a few hours and immersing myself in what feels like a sweet Hallmark movie in book form.

Carol’s plans are derailed when her flight to the Bahamas to dodge the dreaded Christmas season is cancelled due to bad weather. But what appears to be a huge inconvenience, turns out to be the best thing that happened to her. Stranded in a Michigan airport overnight, she makes an impulsive decision to connect with an aunt she never got to know growing up. What she discovers is a family she grows to care for, a town she falls in love with, and perhaps love of the heart kind too! God redirected her to the best gift of “home” and a heart change for the true meaning of Christmas.

I think my favorite character was Carol’s aunt Maria. She’s full of wisdom, unconditional love and a little bit of stubbornness—I couldn’t help but like her from the get-go! I’m so glad she got to connect with her only niece and form strong family ties with her. What a wonderful relationship it was to watch unfold!

I love this story of faith and family all wrapped up in a sweet package to enjoy over and over again. And of course, a hint of a happily-ever-after at the end.
*I received a complimentary copy through Revell via Netgalley and Interviews & Reviews. I was not obligated to leave a favorable review, all opinions expressed here are my own. *

BackCover Blurb:
Can a tropical escape from holiday blues turn her Christmas into a snowy wonderland filled with joy and cheer?

Carol Langstrom hates Christmas. Growing up in a dysfunctional home, with a birthday on December 25 and too many dashed childhood expectations, the holiday season is something she would rather avoid. And working in the design industry where she manages seasonal decor for wealthy, entitled clients certainly hasn't helped!   

So, this year her goal is to flee to the Bahamas--by herself--bah humbug! But bad weather and God's radically different plan redirect her flight to blustery Michigan, where she gets stuck on her aunt's farm and discovers a different kind of Christmas--one wrapped in love, family, and holiday spirit.

Melody Carlson's Christmas novella delivers all the charm of a holiday Hallmark movie, is rooted in Christian faith, woven with sweet romance, and features A Christmas Carol themes.

Revell Publishing, September, 2025
Available in digital ebook, hardcover, and audiobook
Buy ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS CAROL at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THINGS WE KEEP HIDDEN by Jill Lynn, Reviewed by Kim #NewRelease

KIM'S REVIEW:
I've loved every story Jill Lynn has written, and her books are always at the top of my TBR list—Things We Keep Hidden is no exception! I truly loved everything about this story.

This book is filled with relatable, well-developed characters that you can't help but root for. Their personal struggles, the secrets and heartbreak they carry, and the emotional depth of their relationships make for a compelling and heartfelt read. I especially enjoyed getting to know each couple and uncovering the layers of their pasts and connections. And let’s not forget the setting—Colorado!- it’s absolutely perfect and adds just the right atmosphere to the story.

There’s also a subtle mystery twist woven in that keeps you engaged and turning the pages. The writing is beautifully done, and when I reached the last page, I found myself wishing for more. The epilogues were perfection! Jill Lynn has truly outdone herself with this one!

I highly recommend Things We Keep Hidden—it's emotional, thoughtful, and completely captivating. All the stars from me!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. This is a clean read. Five stars!

BackCover Blurb:

A threatening note.

Long-buried secrets.

Their friendship tested.

The last time lifelong friends Payton, Isley and Clara were together, Clara broke their unwritten rule and brought up the one thing they never talk about. And now, more than twenty years after their friend Cece took her life, they must confront that night as the three women and their husbands—plus one unexpected guest—gather at Isley’s Breckenridge vacation home. With tension already simmering just below the surface of their relationship, they’re each left shaken when a cryptic note arrives: Tell the truth or I will.

Who is the message for and what does it refer to? The women fear it could be linked to the truth they’ve kept hidden since the night Cece died…or maybe it has something to do with one of the problems they’ve each brought with them.

Isley’s son is in rehab after narrowly avoiding jail time, spurring her to a reckless act of her own. Clara, usually so careful to follow rules, is haunted by the one night that she didn’t. And Payton has been in denial regarding her husband’s so-called plan for their marriage.

As the weekend unfolds, all three will revisit the bonds they share and the challenges that have shaped their lives. And by the trip’s end, a truth that shocks them all will be revealed.

 

Love Inspired Trade, August, 2025

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook

Buy THINGS WE KEEP HIDDEN at Amazon, or Christianbook .com

SECOND CHANCE AT THE SEASIDE by Elizabeth Maddrey, Reviewed by Kim

Beachfront Billionaires Book 1

KIM'S REVIEW:
Second Chance at the Seaside by Elizabeth Maddrey is a heartwarming second chance romance with a strong emphasis on the power of family.

Going into this story, I expected a sweet romance—and it definitely delivered on that front—but what stood out even more was the beautiful portrayal of family support. Bennett’s family was incredibly close-knit and welcoming, and I especially liked how quickly they embraced Jericho. The romance between Bennett and Jericho was sweet, though I did find myself wishing for a bit more conflict or emotional tension to deepen the storyline and I would have loved to actually read some of their history in flashbacks. The faith element was light but meaningful, reminding readers to hold on to the blessings God gives us with an open hand.

As the first book in a new series, it did a great job introducing the characters and setting the stage for what's to come. The epilogue left me excited to read Christian’s story next.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light. 4 stars.

BackCover Blurb:
At the end of summer, sixteen years ago, we promised we’d keep in touch. And I did.

She didn’t.

I spent a year reaching out to her in every way imaginable, desperately clinging to the future we’d planned while we walked hand-in-hand on the beach. When July rolled around again, I waited eagerly, for her family’s return.

They never came.

She never came.

I blamed her. I blamed myself. I blamed my big, involved family who are basically royalty on this island our ancestors found. After a while, I forgave her and moved on.

Of course I did.

Carrying a torch for sixteen years would be ridiculous.

So the fact that she’s come back to the island, apparently to stay? Doesn’t matter to me at all.

Maybe I’ve been asking God why, but I figure He’s got some kind of plan.

I can probably learn to accept her as a member of our little town, but that’s where it has to end.

My heart’s still too shattered to risk breaking it again. 

August, 2025 Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon

THE SANDS OF SEA BLUE BEACH by Rachel Hauck, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

A Beach Small Town Contemporary Clean Romance 

with Family Drama by the author of The Wedding Dress 

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
" . . . go to Sea Blue Beach. Maybe you'll find something there you left behind."

In between jobs and battling complicated blended family dynamics, journalist Emery Quinn takes a job as editor-in-chief of small local newspaper in the town where she spent the happiest summer of her life. She even rents a room at the Sands Motor Motel where she and her parents lodged for their extended vacation. Sea Blue Beach; still much the same in many ways and entirely different in others. However, the biggest surprise is that Caleb Ransom is also back in town working as a local architect.

After a brief catch-up, Emery and Caleb find themselves embroiled in local disagreements about the future of Sea Blue Beach. Past rivalries have grown into two extremely different visions for the lovely beach town, threatening to destroy its historic local lore. At the heart of the matter for Emery is her reunion with Caleb, could what they began so many years prior as young teens mature into something altogether permanent? Fear is a formidable foe.

A pleasant pace pervades the pages of this first love, summer love story!
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review

BackCover Blurb:
Can anything rekindle the summer love between former sweethearts facing old wounds and a divided town?

Emery Quinn finds herself at a crossroads between her career and complex family dynamics. Struggling to connect with her blended family and ready for a fresh start, Emery accepts the position of editor-in-chief at the Sea Blue Beach Gazette. Upon her return to the Sands Motor Motel, she is flooded with bittersweet memories of her late mother and past regrets from a long-ago summer.

Architect Caleb Ransom has returned home to Sea Blue Beach, a place filled with cherished memories and potential opportunities. He means to make a difference for his family and his hometown by caring for his troubled sister's son and preserving the history of the town as the leader of the new Main Street initiative. He certainly never expected to run into Emery Quinn, the girl who captured his heart sixteen summers ago.

As Emery and Caleb revive their friendship, they find themselves facing a bitterly divided town. Together, they navigate family challenges, professional setbacks, and a high-stakes royal visit to discover how forgiveness and love can reshape their hearts and their destiny.

 

Bethany House Publishing, July, 2025

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

BUY THE SANDS OF SEA BLUE BEACH at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

WHEN THE ROAD COMES AROUND by Katie Powner, Reviewed by Winnie and Rebecca

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
It was such a treat to visit the Come Around Ranch in talented author Katie Powner’s new book, When the Road Comes Around. Powner is such a pro at creating diverse, flawed, realistic characters and plopping them in intriguing settings and situations where they can grow, change, and interact with each other in a fascinating story. I enjoy her insights into human nature.

Set in rural Montana, the Come Around Ranch is run as a guest ranch by Anita and Dan Wilson, with their special-needs adult son Sam. Tad Bungley has a reputation for trouble but is trying to turn his life around and keep his new job working for the Wilsons. He develops a liking for Sam and is a good friend to him. I enjoyed seeing their relationships change and deepen as they interact and overcome challenges.

Themes of redemption, grace, forgiveness, acceptance, and second chances are seamlessly incorporated into the tale and add depth and inspiration. I loved Tad’s determination to overcome his reputation, Anita’s compassion for others, and Dan’s willingness to give second chances. The ending was a little open-ended which left me wanting a bit more resolution, but the story was thought-provoking and beautiful. 

 *I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own. 4.5 stars

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Have you ever heard of grace, Tad? . . . It means we give people chances and love them even when maybe they don't deserve it."

Tad Bungley has already lived a lifetime of poor choices at the young age of twenty-four, so when he lands employment at Come Around Ranch, he doesn't want to mess things up. Kindly befriending the owners' disabled son, and working steadily at even the most menial of tasks, Tad is thrown completely off guard when his life takes another unexpected turn. Will he ever be able to evade his blasted reputation?

Having a soft place in her heart for the lonely and downtrodden, ranch owner Anita Wilson is grateful when her husband takes a chance on hiring Tad Bungley. The young man seems intent on bettering himself and proving to them that he is reliable. Nevertheless, sometimes life throws curve balls when least expected. Anita should know.

An exceptionally touching story with well positioned wellsprings of hope, featuring the power of prayer and the significance of grace.
*I purchased this book and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 

 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW:

 

BackCover Blurb:
Only trouble can bring about the beauty of redemption and grace.

In the small town of Grady, Montana, twenty-four-year-old Tad Bungley has a reputation for trouble. When he lands a job at Come Around Ranch, however, his life seems to take a positive turn. As he develops a soft spot for Sam, the ranch owner's disabled son, and a special bond with TJ, a rescue horse with a poor reputation of his own, Tad becomes determined not to bungle it up this time.

Forty-eight-year-old Anita Wilson is too young to feel so old, but rheumatoid arthritis limits her ability to work on the guest ranch she owns with her husband. It was a risk to hire Tad for the summer, but Anita is convinced he just needs a bit of encouragement to find his footing. What she doesn't anticipate is that Tad's presence at the ranch will change everything, including her relationship with her son. And when Tad finds himself in more of a mess than ever, he and Anita must learn when to hold on, when to let go, and what grace really means. 

Revell Publishing, August, 2025

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

Buy WHEN THE ROAD COMES AROUND at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

GELATO AT THE VILLA by Robin Jones Gunn, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney #ReleaseDay

Suitcase Sisters Book #2: 

Contemporary Women's Fiction Book Set in Italy with Female Friendship, Sisterhood, and International Travel

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"He loves gathering around the table. It's his passion to see people coming together for a feast."

A rare opportunity presented itself to a pair of long-time friends; Grace and Claire were about to enjoy a week-long stay in Italy. Leaving the stresses of everyday life behind, their meticulous planning bore fruit in abundance. Claire's culinary passion was nourished to her heart's content, while Grace's longing to feel the earth between her fingers was met with lush, organic opportunities. Surrounded by magnificent art, soul refreshing churches, and exuberant locals, (the best gelato, don't forget the gelato) their journey became like a breath of fresh air and altogether life changing. "We (Claire and I) planned our trip as tourists. We returned home as pilgrims."

Filled to the brim with deep aromatic descriptions, there is an invitation to every reader who delves between the pages of this story to come . . . to venture towards the banqueting table, where the King of Glory delights in filling not only physical needs, but spiritual ones as well. It's those holy moments that changed the trajectory of two women's lives, offered so freely to all.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews. I also purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurb:
Chi trova un amico trova un tesoro.
"Whoever finds a friend finds a treasure."
Italian saying

Grace and Claire have formed a close friendship over their love of reading. After many years and many books that provided armchair adventures, the time has come for them to go somewhere instead of only dreaming of someday.

Traveling to Venice, Florence, and Bellagio, the Suitcase Sisters find themselves immersed in the magnificent works of art, scrumptious gelato flavors, and endless pasta variations of Italy. And they discover a vulnerability to disclose their struggles in ways they never did at home. As Grace experiences a newfound freedom and confidence in who she is, Claire wrestles with painful memories of her teen years.

A special dinner party brings unexpected revelations about faith and God's nearness. Then a life-changing moment on the shores of Lake Lugano causes Grace and Claire to discover they are not just tourists but pilgrims on a path to becoming all God created them to be.

Robin Jones Gunn whisks you away to experience the incredible culture of Northern Italy in this inspiring, faith-based contemporary fiction with themes of European travel, midlife adventures, and lifelong friendships, making this a perfect book club selection. 

Revell Publishing, August, 2025

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

Buy GELATO AT THE VILLA at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THE BITTER END BIRDING SOCIETY by Amanda Cox, Reviewed by Paula and Rebecca #ReleaseDay

Lyrical Southern Fiction Book Club Read Set in Tennessee

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Sometimes things don't come to a tidy conclusion. Words are left unsaid. Things are left undone. But this life is not the end. . . . . Our present circumstances, our perceived failures, they are not final."

Her days feel like an ending, at the very least an epilogue of life as she has known it and the beginning of a life she no longer recognizes. After surviving a harrowing experience with her students, Ana Leigh Watkins closes up her kindergarten classroom for the summer, and drives to Bitter End, Tennessee to spend a few months with her great aunt Cora, never envisioning for one second that she is entering a world where the past; her own family's past, has never been resolved. Besides, how could traipsing along trails with a group of amateur bird watchers, an adopted dog, and a way too interesting sheep farmer transform her nightmares back into dreams?

Exceptional characters, elegant word flow, and one of the most beautiful settings imaginable intersect with wisdom, wit and delicate timing to deliver a story that doesn't wrap up perfectly, but finishes perfectly for those who read it.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews and purchased a copy. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Ana who is trying to process an act of heroism at her elementary school, goes to Bitter End, Tennessee for the summer to help her Great Aunt Cora downsize. What she discovers is a quirky hamlet with quirky inhabitants and a family secret waiting to be revealed. The Bitter End Birding Society not only took bird watching excursions but bonded and helped each other navigate life.
 

This book brought back many memories of watching birds from my kitchen window... from the diverse varieties in Wisconsin to a hawk perched on my patio next to a busy highway in St. Louis and those feisty hummingbirds no matter where we lived.
 

This author writes complex but significant stories that entertain and also teach valid spiritual wisdom. If you are looking for a great romance, a spunky sidekick dog, and wonder how Bitter End got its name - take a chance on this lovely book.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a strong faith thread

 

Revell Publishing, August, 2025

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

BUY THE BITTER END BIRDING SOCIETY at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THE LIGHT ON HORN ISLAND by Valerie Fraser Luesse, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Help one, save one, lead one home." Cryptic words written in the sand, in Hebrew no less.

Weighted down with indescribable grief over the loss of her best friend, Edie Gardner leaves New York City and travels miles to the south towards the one person who never fails to sooth her soul, Punk Cheramie; arguably one of the best cooks in Mississippi. Her grandmother's coastline cottage is Edie's favorite spot, not to mention Punk's three rambunctious friends whose constant dialogue and entertaining antics prove impossible to resist.

When the ladies gather for an epic shopping trip, they end up at an eclectic curiosity shop in Biloxi, where an enigmatic owner not only decodes the Hebrew message, but sends the women home with a vintage parlor game, and upon a return trip offers Edie a part-time job. The days and weeks that follow not only reunite Edie with a life long passion but with a much treasured love. And she isn't the only one.

A sweet blend of hilarity and heartache coupled with a little glimpse of heaven empowers this story to remove layers upon layers of grief, regret and unfinished memories; it's what light is all about.
*I won a copy from the publisher but was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW:

BackCover Blurb:
Just when her life comes crumbling down, she discovers secrets that could shape her future--and heal her past.

When Edie Gardner's life in New York falls apart, her grandmother Adele "Punk" Cheramie coaxes her back to tiny Bayou du Chêne, Mississippi. Edie spent many happy summers there, a stone's throw from untamed Horn Island, where she once found love. Can she now demystify the island's strange new light?

Punk and her colorful friends introduce Edie to the Trove, a fascinating gallery and antique shop. Like Horn Island's light, The Trove has appeared out of nowhere. Its proprietor, with a gift for discerning his customers' needs, gives Edie a Victorian parlor game that asks players a series of personal questions, which is harmless fun at first. But Edie and her grandmother's circle find that the game has a way of uncovering secrets, including a heartbreak that has haunted one of the women for decades. Banding together, this Southern sisterhood is determined to find answers that will bring healing, hope, and happiness--and maybe explain the transcendent illumination of a wild and windswept barrier island.

Revell Publishing, April, 2025

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

BUY THE LIGHT ON HORN ISLAND at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

 

WHAT THE RIVER KEEPS by Cheryl Grey Bostrom, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Set in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, the author eloquently and vividly describes the landscape. She depicts a fragile, vulnerable heroine, biologist Hildy Nybo, who shows strength even though she questions her sanity. The past haunts her, but she finds purpose in wildlife and the reclamation that will come once the dam is torn down on the Elwha River. 

Luke Rimmer, a still grieving widower, is helping his sister with her pottery shop in the cabin next to Hildy. As they grow together, Luke shows infinite patience when Hildy tries to reconcile her past with her present. “A chess game, this relationship,”  

This was a slow-build romance with complicated family dynamics. The author presented clear Biblical truths with realistic situations. “God can wash a person clean, restore hope, but consequences can scar a heart up pretty bad.” 

This was an expertly crafted story with a lot to ponder, a suspenseful thread and a satisfying ending.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale on behalf of the author via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* Beyond 5 stars and a solid faith thread 

BackCover Blurb:
Hildy Nybo is a successful biologist, her study of the Pacific Northwest’s wild fish both a passion and a career. But behind her professional brilliance, Hildy’s reclusive private life reflects a childhood fraught with uncertainty. Despite her father’s love and her mother’s sympathy, she grew up constantly losing even her most cherished belongings, unable to recall where she misplaced them. Haunted by the confusion of those early years, she now records her life in detailed diaries and clings tightly to memory-prompting keepsakes.

Then her mother’s health fails, and Hildy accepts a job near her childhood home, joining a team of scientists who will help restore her beloved Elwha River after the demolition of two century-old dams. There Hildy settles into one of the cabins on her family’s rustic resort—a place she both loves and dreads, for reasons she can’t fully explain.

When local artist Miranda Rimmer rents an adjacent cabin for her pottery studio, Hildy shrinks from such a close neighbor. But then Miranda’s carpenter brother, Luke, shows up to help with construction and captures Hildy’s attention. Now a few years beyond a tragedy that brought him to his knees, Luke recognizes a kindred soul in Hildy, and they build a relationship that dismantles the walls Hildy’s built to keep people out. As troubling pieces of the past surface, Hildy dares to wonder if she can banish the shadows that have burdened her and follow her river’s course to freedom.

-A compelling story of forgiveness, redemption, and overcoming painful secrets that explores the beauty of the natural world
-A poignant and emotive contemporary novel perfect for fans of Delia Owens and William Kent Krueger
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs

Tyndale Fiction, August 2025

Available in digital ebook,paperback, and audiobook:

Buy WHAT THE RIVER KEEPS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSIE by Courtney Walsh, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

A heartwarming tale of found family 

and a perfectly imperfect love

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"I want to tell them the truth so badly."

Actually the truth of the matter was that aspiring actress Rosie Waterman's life was nothing like that of her friends, or even remotely like she had so creatively described to anyone who took the time to ask. In reality, Rosie's childhood dream of making it big in New York City had fizzled down to packing her belongings into exactly one suitcase, sending out a gazillion job queries, and going home; only to have the surprise of her life! A job offer from a small theatre program in Sturgeon Bay, Illinois; the Sunset Players. Their summer production of Cinderella needed a creative team member. Rosie loved Cinderella!

It was obvious upon arrival that Rosie had failed to read the fine print. Oops!

A pitch perfect example of how memorable character driven stories can be, especially when Prince Charming, instead of searching for a glass slipper, learns how to ask the right questions. Dreams really can come true! (even if they change a little)
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.4.5 stars

BackCover Blurb:
Sometimes what you think you want and what you actually want turn out to be different things . . . In New York Times bestselling author Courtney Walsh's latest uplifting women's fiction, one woman discovers what it means to create a life that fits. Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter and Emma St. Clair.

Rosie Waterman has one dream: to become a working actor. But lately, that hasn't been working out. When she loses her apartment and her job on the same day, she does what she always does--puts herself out there, ready to find the next big thing. But a trip home makes her realize that while she's been struggling to make this dream come true, all her friends have become real adults with careers and weddings and babies on the way. Rosie's been at this for years, and she has nothing to show for it. But how does she simply let go of her dream?

When she's offered a job as the director of a regional theatre's production of Cinderella, she jumps at the chance--even though she's only directed in college and the job is in Door County, Wisconsin, and not in New York. She has no other offers, and at least she'll be getting paid to do something theatrical. But when she arrives, she quickly realizes that the "regional theatre" is actually in a retirement community, and the "actors" are actually senior citizens with no acting experience whatsoever.

Working on the show presents new challenges, forcing Rosie to learn how to step up and be the leader this fledgling theatre troupe needs. The more time she spends with her new cast, the more she begins to rethink what it means to dream big, especially when that big dream hasn't turned out to be at all what she thought it would be. It's not at all what she expected, but could it be exactly what she needs?

Come for the quirky cast, stay for the charm, and fall in love with the beautiful mess of becoming. Filled with laughter, a bit of clean romance, and a reminder that life doesn't have to go as planned to be beautiful, Everything's Coming Up Rosie will leave you cheering, swooning, and reaching for one more chapter.

Thomas Nelson Publishing, June, 2025

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

Buy EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSIE at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THE NEIGHBOR AND THE GIFTS by Danielle Grandinetti, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

Christmas Cabin Historical Romance Novellas Book 2

 

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Based on The Twelve Days of Christmas with a sinister twist.
 

Ollie is a shy girl content to hide away in her job as a librarian in a small town in Wisconsin in 1930.
 

Now she has two admirers, one who scares her badly when she begins receiving gifts corresponding to the old Christmas song: The Twelve Days of Christmas. She cannot figure out who it might be. But deputy Titus, her other admirer and longtime friend, wants to protect her.
 

The author cleverly uses the song to depict a warped mind but shows us that with God’s help, justice prevails and true love wins out.
 

A skillfully written story that is perfect to read around Christmas time or even in the middle of Summer!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Twelve days. Twelve gifts. One unlikely hero.

Wisconsin, 1930—When Manitowish Waters librarian Olivia “Ollie” Larson finds a package on the library steps, she expects the children’s books she ordered, not a taxidermied partridge. By the fourth gift from her unknown and unwelcome True Love, disappearing to her grandfather’s isolated cabin in the Northwoods is the only way she can escape him.

Deputy Titus Wilburn is happy to escort the lovely librarian to her grandfather's house on his way to the neighboring Yarwood cabin. After all, he's been smitten with her since they attended school together, and she needs his protection. However, the plan fails when Ollie's uninvited suitor discovers her new location.

As the man's actions become more desperate and his gifts more dangerous, an unexpectedly bedridden Titus decides to free Ollie from this menace, which puts the enemy’s sights directly on him. Ollie refuses to let her injured hero sacrifice himself, but with the days ticking closer to Christmas, she may have no choice but to accept whatever fate her suitor has in store for her if she wants to save Titus' life.

One cabin in the Northwoods … a decade of Christmas miracles.

Read the whole series!
Prequel: The Sheriff and the Outlaw
Book One: The Baby and the Guardian
Book Two: The Neighbor and the Gifts

 

Hearth Spot Press, July, 2025

Available in digital ebook at Amazon

WHERE SECRETS LIE by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

Tupelo Grove Series #2

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"No one hunts down evidence better than you."

And right about now, attorney Hez Webster needs those evidence hunting skills to prove to his wife (technically ex-wife, but not for long) that the wine bottle in his trash can had been planted to throw suspicion his way, but to what end? He and Savannah had regained their footing, she was ready to marry him again (or so he hoped and prayed), and in fact her new appointment as the president of Tupelo Grove University should allow him to follow his dream of forming a law clinic there. Nevertheless, something was off kilter, Hez felt it in his gut, it would just take time to figure it out. Little did they know, the noose was drawing tighter with the passing of each and every day.

"I didn't see that coming". . . was my mantra throughout this entire narrative. Things both known and unknown fought fiercely for dominance; family history, criminal intent, international smugglers, duplicitous characters, overwhelming decisions, light vs. darkness . . . all playing a major role within this impressive display of romantic/legal/thriller/suspense, (yes, all of those! can you believe it?) giving me the distinct impression that the pages were turning themselves.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW:

BackCover Blurb:
College professor Savannah Webster is ready to give her ex-husband, Hez, another chance, and she believes he's finally ready for them to face their many past trials as a team. But when Savannah finds evidence that points to Hez's old demons resurfacing, the fragile trust they've built begins to crumble. And it's not just their relationship that hanging in the balance--the survival of the university Savannah's family poured their lives into is also under threat.

Hez is determined to put his past mistakes behind him with his new role mentoring law students at Tupelo Grove University's legal clinic. His primary focus with the clinic is to help Savannah pull the university out of a pit of debt and bad decisions made by the previous leadership, including her father. But their quest for stability takes a dark turn as they try to root out the dangerous smuggling ring the university is entangled in, and their investigation puts them in the crosshairs of criminals who will stop at nothing to eliminate any obstacle in their path.

The twists continue until the final page as a dangerous world of smuggling and financial instability collides with the complex dynamics of legacy and family.

Thomas Nelson, June, 2025

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

Buy WHERE SECRETS LIE at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

BEFORE THE NIGHT FALLS by Christy Barritt, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"There are some who carry darkness with them. It follows like shadows."

"And some who carry light, even when walking through darkness."

Darkness had penetrated the life of television personality Olivia Montgomery after being stalked and kidnapped two years prior. If not for her courageous escape, she would have been listed as a victim rather than a survivor. Thankfully the perpetrator had been killed by police, game over . . . or was it . . . the roses were back.

Taking a lengthy assignment to participate in fitness expert Tyson Stone's forty day regimen for overall health takes Olivia far away from the streets of New York to the rolling hills of North Carolina, and still! The roses continue . . . a reminder that the darkness of her past was trying to penetrate the light of her future, especially with mutual attraction between Olivia and Tyson raise the stakes substantially higher.

"No one should have to face something like this alone."

Roll out the caution tape, danger may be closer than you think!

*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars

BackCover Blurb:
The roses are back. And so is the fear.

TV personality Olivia Montgomery thought her nightmare was over.

One year ago, she escaped the clutches of “The Admirer,” a serial killer who left roses as his calling card. A serial killer who kept her in darkness. The monster who was shot and killed by police.

At least, that’s what everyone believes.

When a dozen red roses arrive at her door, Olivia’s hard-won peace shatters. Her nightmare can’t be happening again.

Fitness guru Tyson Stone never expected the spunky reporter assigned to his forty-day health program would bring danger to his doorstep. Now he’s determined to protect her, even as his own problems haunt him. But the closer the two grow, the more he realizes this isn’t just about saving her life—it’s about discovering what’s worth fighting for.

As the roses continue to appear and the killer’s deadline approaches, Olivia must decide whom she can trust. Because this time, she knows exactly what awaits when the night falls. This time, she might not survive her worst nightmare. 

River Heights Publishing, May, 2025

Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon

IF YOU'RE READING THIS by Christy Barritt, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

TRUE CRIME JUNKIES #10

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Each murder had been meticulously staged to mirror her photographs."

Just when Morgan Riley had gotten up enough nerve to demonstrate her true feelings for Logan, the stoic state trooper had responded with brutal honesty, revealing something about himself that had rocked Morgan to the core. Needing to distance herself emotionally . . .

Morgan had seemingly disappeared into thin air. Logan Gibson becomes deeply concerned, and rightfully so, for all signs point to an abduction. Thankfully his friends Andi Slade and Duke McAllister, both members of the Arctic Circle Murder Club (a popular true crime podcast), are willing to pour their resources into the case, because a sinister killer seems delighted to stay infuriatingly elusive, giving them a terrifying glimpse into the disturbed mind of someone who believes cruelty should be considered art!

These books continue to be some of my all-time favorites! The author's clean, crisp plotting skills are on full display in this tenth book of the series and having become comfortably familiar with the characters and knowing how well they work together, makes what could be a really dark story into something quite readable.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars

 
BackCover Blurb:
In Alaska, the cold isn't the only thing that kills . . .

Alaska State Trooper Logan Gibson has buried his past deeper than the winter snows of America’s Last Frontier. But exposure is imminent when his friend Morgan Riley goes missing and dangerous truths once shuttered by distant memories start to come into the light.

A methodical killer is stalking the Alaskan wilderness, taunting authorities with haunting images linked to Morgan’s award-winning photographs. When the Arctic Circle Murder Club gets a lead, Andi Slade and Duke McAllister are drawn into Logan’s investigation.

As they narrow the suspects, the danger intensifies. From treacherous mountain peaks to the merciless depths of frigid waters, Alaska’s stunning landscape seems to inspire a killer who is always one step ahead of them.

Logan and his friends must stop this madman before he perfects his artistic vision. Otherwise, Logan may become the killer’s ultimate masterpiece.  

River Heights Publishing, June, 2025

Buy IF YOU'RE READING THIS in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon

ARTIFICE by Christy Barritt, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

Pros and Cons Mysteries Book 4

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
Well. Well. Well. Lighthouse Harbor was definitely not what it was supposed to be.

Arriving on the campus of the private institution for troubled teens (the grounds an eerie carry-over as a former mental hospital), Olive Sterling is going in undercover as a wealthy benefactor determined to unlayer the school's secrets. Students have been disappearing. How and why? . . . the answer to those questions may be more dangerous that Olive was expecting.

Tip-toeing suspense mixed with diabolical intentions equals an absorbing read! Just a whisper of romance, and yet . . .

BackCover Blurb:
Three missing teens. One questionable school. Zero room for error.

When the teenage son of a prominent Boston family vanishes from Lighthouse Harbor—an exclusive institution for troubled teens—private investigator Olive Sterling is called to find him.

Posing as a wealthy benefactor, Olive infiltrates the school. But something sinister lurks within. Other students have gone missing. Each time a student disappears, the administrators label them runaways. But Olive doesn’t buy it. Strange behavior from the staff, whispers of experimental treatments, and a suspicious death all point to a dangerous conspiracy.

Complicating matters is Simon Long, an education consultant whose penetrating questions and convenient timing make Olive question his true motives. Their undeniable attraction only adds to her confusion. Is he an ally in her investigation or someone with a hidden agenda of his own?

With time running out, Olive must face harrowing cliffs of deception to uncover the truth and save the students before another life is lost.

River Heights Publishing, May, 2025

Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon

FIRE MOUNTAIN by Dana Mentink, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #NewRelease

PAULA'S REVIEW:

Trucker Kit and ex-cop Cullen meet in a volatile situation during the imminent eruption of Mount Ember. Their motto becomes: “Faith not Fear” in the face of danger. 
 

Ms. Mentink conveys the human condition through the frailties of her characters. She shows how they are unforgiving of themselves and others because of what they encountered in their pasts. But she also shows how they come to realize that they are not God and He requires them to forgive so that they can move on.
 

There is non-stop excitement during the days leading up to an eruption similar to Mt. Saint Helens. Complications in the form of bad guys looking for a girl that Kit helped ramps up the tension. Through it all, Cullen is tough and staunchly defends Kit and an abandoned baby. “Let’s see what you’re up to here, God.” 
 

This author sure knows how to put her characters through the wringer and test their mettle. She ramps up the action and had me on the edge of my seat in this exceptional story. 
 

A harrowing and riveting story with a spiritual dimension. 
*A complimentary copy of this 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 

SEE REVIEWS BY KIM AND REBECCA

 

BackCover Blurb:
Fire rains from above as they fight to discover the truth and stay alive.

In the shadow of a threatening volcano, long-haul trucker Kit Garrido wakes up in her crashed big rig, unable to recall what happened or why she's suddenly in possession of someone's baby. Fiercely independent, she has to admit that perhaps this time she could use a little help.

As the threat of eruption grows, former cop Cullen Landry refuses to leave his cabin in the evacuation area, which is why he's the only one left who can help Kit escape the crumpled cab of her truck. He doesn't want to get tangled up in the mystery of the beautiful woman with an abandoned infant, but when he sees the bullet hole in the windshield and the bloody handprint on the interior, he realizes that he's in this thing, like it or not.

When two armed men with ill intent approach, the race is on to stay alive, discover the truth, and find the baby's missing mother--all while a deadly mountain rains fire from above. 

 

Revell Publishing, July, 2025

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

Buy FIRE MOUNTAIN at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

HER INCONVENIENT WEDDING DATE by Liwen Y. Ho, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt #ReleaseDay

UNEXPECTED DATES SERIES #2

TRIXI'S REVIEW:

We're all a little weird. And life is a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutually satisfying weirdness—and call it love—true love. ~Robert Fulghum

Okay, if you're looking for some comedy relief, there's no better author in my book (pun intended) to deliver the perfect read! Not only that, there's a deeper faith thread to bind everything together. Liwen Ho is my go-to Rom-Com writer when I need a break from real life, and a few laughs (maybe even some guffaws). Her characters never fail to charm me; they're the kind you root for and wished were real.

Lily is a devoted older sister and wants her younger sister to marry her long-time boyfriend. But according to Chinese tradition—and her mother's wishes—Lily must marry first. There's a problem however, she isn't currently dating nor does she have a love interest. Thus ensues pursuit of marriage (or at least a pretend one) she'll even settle for one of convenience.

Hunter has been secretly in love with Lily for about a year. Working in the same office building as her has put him in an awkward position—so he decides to at least befriend her. He can't believe his luck (or should I say God's providence) when she proposes a plan that benefits both of them, how could he possibly say no?

He literally just married me without expecting anything in return. Who does that?! Apparently, a non-Chinese guy who speaks Mandarin, rescues me from PowerPoint presentations, and hates pineapple on his pizza. I suppose two out of three ain't bad.

I've read Liwen's Fab-Forties series (and loved each one), and I have to say, this has got to be my favorite yet. Hunter has a funny/cute side that Lily hasn't ever seen before that perfectly fits with her personality. These two complement each other in so many ways and it was fun to see each layer unfold. I loved how the author had these two “date” after they are inconveniently married (you'll understand when you read this). Lily's family added to the charm of this story....her mom was a hoot & her younger sister was the sweetest. 

The faith theme felt natural; Lily learned that she doesn't have to be “perfect” to be loved because she already is in God's eyes and Hunter reminds her that she has the freedom to be who God created her to be—sometimes that looks like being irresponsible (at least in some areas). This story ticked a lot of boxes for me, one being I love marriage-of-convenience, so it's always fun when I can read it in a modern-day setting. There's a lot of depth, laughter, and profound moments to discover in the pages. I never pass up the chance to read a book by Liwen!
* I received a complimentary copy from the author and wasn't under any obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed here are my own. *

BackCover Blurb:

I always thought I’d marry for love… not because of a family tradition.

As the eldest daughter, my life’s basically one long checklist of responsibilities—especially when it comes to making sure my younger sister gets her happily ever after. And apparently, that means I need to tie the knot first.

Groan.

I’m an engineer by day, a beauty blogger by night, and a problem-solver 24/7. But even I wasn’t prepared for the solution to my marriage problem to show up in the form of Hunter Payne—my tall, charming, and goofy coworker who just so happened to save me from the world’s most awkward date.

Out of the kindness of his heart, he offers to marry me. For three months only. Just until the family pressure eases up. Totally platonic, totally practical.

Until it’s not.

Because three seconds into our union, a surprise kiss makes some very inconvenient emotions rise to the surface.

How am I going to survive this marriage without falling for the one guy I promised I wouldn’t catch feelings for?

June, 2025

Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon