Showing posts with label historical Christian fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label historical Christian fiction. Show all posts

Thursday, October 9, 2025

A SONG IN THE DARK by Kimberley Woodhouse, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

A Novel of World War Two

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"She prayed that others would rise up. It only took a few."

After surviving the awful blast that killed her parents, prodigious young pianist Chaisley Frappier lost her eyesight. Under the attentive care of a most beloved grandmother and their family physician, Chaisley learns to navigate a new path, one that eventually forms her into one of the most sought after concert pianists in the world. Most amazing was the fact that her audience had no idea that she was blind.

While Chaisley was thriving, the world around her was becoming increasingly more difficult to survive, especially for those whose ethnicity did not meet German standards and whose handicaps made them susceptible to inhumane treatment. Entering into a lengthy European tour, Chaisley and her faithful companion Melanie place their wellbeing into the strong, capable hands of their enigmatic chauffeur, Rick Zimmerman. His calm, steady presence grows into a friendship that Chaisley never expected, especially after their goals become united and they choose to use Chaisley's travel and connections to offer hope to the least among them.

A daring dive into the shadows of impending war where the melody still plays for those brave enough to listen.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars

 SEE  PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Her music captivates crowds. His mission exposes secrets. Their courage defies a dictator.

Against the simmering backdrop of impending war, blind virtuoso pianist Chaisley Frappier embarks on a concert tour through a rapidly changing Europe. When she learns that Hitler's regime of injustice is targeting other disabled people, Chaisley realizes she is in a prime position to help those who are threatened reach safety. But the Führer's growing fascination with the celebrated musician endangers her undercover mission and forces her to walk a tightrope between her fame and her calling.

When Rick Zimmerman receives his next assignment from the British Secret Intelligence Service, he is surprised to learn he'll be acting as the personal driver of a world-renowned pianist as she tours Europe. The role gives him the perfect cover to complete missions of sabotage and intelligence-gathering, but he soon suspects the brilliant, alluring pianist has secrets of her own. As Chaisley and Rick confront evil at every turn, it will take every bit of faith and courage they possess to triumph over hate--and survive.

Bethany House Publishing, September, 2025
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

 


Saturday, October 4, 2025

THE WOMEN OF OAK RIDGE by Michelle Shocklee, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney


REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"No one wants to talk about those days. The past is the past. Best to leave it there."

Eager to begin research for her doctoral dissertation, Laurel Willett travels all the way from Boston, Massachusetts to Oak Ridge, Tennessee in order to spend a portion of the summer with her Aunt Mae. Mae had actually worked at the now famed Secret City, making Laurel hopeful that Mae would not only share her own recollections, but would connect her with others who had unknowingly helped manufacture a key component of the atomic bomb, enriched uranium. Instead of cooperation from her aunt, Laurel meets stiff resistance, almost to the point of traumatic stress.

Maebelle Willett was so young when she accepted government employment at Clinton Engineer Works, optimistic that her salary would help ease the financial duress facing her family back in Kentucky. Mae was paired with a wonderful roommate, caught on quickly to her job responsibilities, took her vow of confidentiality very seriously, and even met a kind young man. How quickly things changed when her life became unrecognizable, rife with decisions that she would regret for decades to come.

A fascinating blend of cause and effect spanning a generation, resulting in a culmination of tightly held secrets with long lasting effects on one innocent young woman whose desire to serve her country became twisted with the ill intentions of another. Equally as interesting was the history itself, the tale of a place no one even knew existed for a number of years. Thankfully this particular story has a happy ending and we would wish nothing less for these remarkable characters.

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

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
In the hills of Tennessee, two women work at a Manhattan Project site during World War II and uncover truths that irrevocably change their lives in this captivating new story from award-winning Southern fiction author Michelle Shocklee.

1944. Maebelle Willett arrives in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, eager to begin her new government job and send money home to her impoverished family. She knows little about the work she will be doing, but she’s told it will help America win the war. Not all is what it seems, however. Though Oak Ridge employees are forbidden from discussing their jobs, Mae’s roommate begins sharing disturbing information, then disappears without a trace. Mae desperately attempts to find her but instead comes face-to-face with a life-altering revelation—one that comes at significant cost.

1979. Laurel Willett is a graduate student in Boston when she learns about the history of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where thousands unknowingly worked on the atomic bomb. Intrigued because she knows her Aunt Mae was employed there, Laurel decides to spend the summer with her aunt, hoping to add a family connection to her thesis research. But Mae adamantly refuses to talk about her time in the Secret City. Mae’s friends, however, offer to share their experiences, propelling Laurel on her path to uncovering the truth about a missing woman. As Laurel works to put the pieces together, the hidden pain and guilt Mae has tried so hard to bury comes to light . . . with potentially disastrous consequences.

-Standalone Southern historical fiction great for fans of Lisa Wingate, Donna Everhart, and Lynn Austin
-A compelling dual-timeline novel set during WWII and the 1970s about the weight of secrets and the power of forgiveness
-Includes discussion questions for book groups

Tyndale Fiction, September, 2025
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

 

SE

Friday, October 3, 2025

LAST LIGHT OVER GALVESTON by Jennifer L. Wright, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Get ready for a front row seat into the depths of a hurricane when meteorology was in its infancy. To say that Jennifer Wright describes what it was like to be caught in a hurricane in Last Light Over Galveston is putting it much too tamely. She vividly depicts the event so that I felt I was right there with Kathleen in the midst of the disaster.

In this dual time novel, we see what led Kathleen to flee from her life of privilege, hop on a train and only stop when she was at the end of her money. She finds refuge with nuns at an orphanage but still grapples with where her life goes from there. She finds purpose in helping the orphans and befriends Matthew, a meteorologist helping to gather data and give weather reports. It was fascinating to learn about this topic and how it impacted the event in 1900.

While the hurricane is the main part of the story, the characters are what give it life. They show faith and resiliency in the face of death. “Sometimes God has to tear down all the distractions, all the lies in our lives in order for us to see the truth. To see that after everything else is gone, He is still there.”

This book is not to be missed.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale through NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread 

SEE REBECCA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Galveston, Texas. September 1900. Only months ago, Kathleen McDaniel returned from finishing school in Switzerland to her family home in New York’s Hudson Valley with a future of promise and privilege set before her. But one horrific event shattered her picturesque life. Now she has fled as far as the train line and a pocketful of money would take her, finding refuge at the St. Mary’s Orphan Asylum on Galveston Island, where she helps the nuns care for their young charges and prays her past will not find her. Despite her tenuous standing at the orphanage—and the grief and betrayal that drove her from home—Kathleen slowly begins to make friends. There is Emily, the novice nun she rooms with; Maggie, the tempestuous young girl who only bonds with Kathleen; and Matthew, a kind, handsome man recently employed by Isaac Cline at Galveston’s office of the US Weather Bureau.

Then in one fateful day, Kathleen’s fragile new life begins to crack as it becomes clear that she can’t run far enough to escape the reach of her former life. Meanwhile, as troubling news about a storm crossing the Gulf from Cuba swirls in the Weather Bureau offices, Matthew holds fast to Cline’s belief that no hurricane can touch Galveston. But as darkness falls on the island, Kathleen must gather her courage and reach for a strength beyond her own if she—and those she loves—are to survive.

-A stand-alone historical novel about the 1900 Galveston hurricane
-A gripping read inspired by true events
-Features themes of resilience, found family, and redemption
-Includes discussion questions perfect for book clubs 

Tyndale Fiction, August, 2025
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

 

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

A SEA VIEW CHRISTMAS by Julie Klassen, Reviewed by Trixi, Paula, and Rebecca! #ReleaseDay

 

A Holiday Regency Historical Novella with Sisters and Second Chance Romance
 On Devonshire Shores Series

TRIXI'S REVIEW:
With her lyrical writer’s voice, Julie Klassen brings the Devonshire Shores series to a wonderful conclusion. Though I wished it didn’t have to end! It’s one of those engaging series that has been so enjoyable to get to know the Summer sisters and feel like I was part of their lives, both in the ups and downs and all the in-betweens. I very highly recommend reading these books in order to get a more complete view of the characters, their situations, lives and loves and a deeper understanding of the whole story line.

This is elder sister Sarah’s story and I have been anticipating it since the very first book ‘The Sisters of Sea View’. I love her devotion to family and her commitment to seeing to their livelihood after the death of their father. She’s sacrificed her own happiness and wellbeing—while this is admirable—it has cost her a great deal and the possibility of a lifetime love of her own. 

When a trip to Scotland takes place to be in attendance with her sister and new brother-in-law after their marriage, it puts her in close proximity to one Callum Henshall. He's the widower who first stayed at Sea View and the man she grew to admire a great deal. Could it be a second chance for both of them to get reacquainted and renew not only a deep friendship, but possibly the love of a lifetime? If only Sarah didn’t feel so duty bound to her sisters and mother and if Callum can convince her to take a chance on him. I was on pins and needles the whole book, hoping Sarah would choose love over all else! I won’t spoil the ending, but will only say it was well worth the anticipation. There is also a side story involving the youngest sister Georgiana and her discovery of a blossoming first love of her own that just added another charming layer to this.

Julie Klassen knows how to draw the reader into her characters’ lives; she’s one of my top favorite historical authors. Her stories are always heartwarming, delightful, full of faith, family love and those oh so happily-ever-afters that I love to read about. My favorite part of this was reading about all the Christmas traditions in Regency times... even wishing I lived in that era for all the wonderful preparations, games, dances and celebrations. 

As I said earlier, I didn’t want this series to end! I can’t wait to see what novel is next in line from Klassen.
*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House and Interviews & Reviews through Netgalley and wasn’t obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are mine alone. *

PAULA'S REVIEW:
What a lovely time it was to return to Sea View to Sarah and Callum’s story. The setting was magical at Christmastime with all the holiday festivities. I enjoyed learning about the customs of Christmas in 1820.

I am so glad Sarah and Callum got their second chance. Although it took some time because Sarah was feeling so responsible to her family. Her mother wisely tells her that everything is in God’s hands, that there are a lot of “what ifs” that might not happen.

A favorite character was youngest daughter Georgiana who is growing out of her tomboy ways into a young lady and just might be taking an interest in a certain well dressed young man. I would love to see a book containing her story.

It was good to see the family closeness and their hearts for helping the less fortunate in the town.

This was a wonderful story by a gifted author in a favorite era.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread

REBECCA'S REVIEW:

" . . . let me make something clear. I know how I feel about ye, lass. "

As the Christmas season approaches, Sarah Summers tries not to lament over how her life might have turned out differently, accepting the responsibilities of keeping her family's boarding house running smoothly and efficiently had consumed her life for months on end, while watching three most beloved sisters fall in love with their soul mates.

A reunion between Sarah and their previous Scottish guest Callum Henshall seems but a whispered dream buried deep within her tender heart.

This highly anticipated conclusion to the series in no way disappoints, for not only does Sarah gain an opportunity for a holiday happily-ever-after, but the Regency era festivities are so beautifully described that readers will dream about traveling back in time just to experience the delicious food, revered traditions and creative games for themselves.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews.

BackCover Blurb:
The holiday stirs up excitement as fondly remembered guests come to stay and acquaintances grow into more. . . .

With a promise to her youngest sister, Sarah Summers declares that this year's Christmas at Sea View will exceed all expectations. But an upcoming trip to Scotland--and the prospect of becoming reacquainted with dashing widower Callum Henshall--blows a flurry of doubts into her mind. Sarah had discouraged his attentions before yet soon finds herself once again torn between attraction and duty as alluring thoughts of a second chance at love weave their way into her practical heart.

Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Georgiana eagerly anticipates the exciting Christmas of her dreams after last year's dull, disappointing holiday filled with endless chores. She enjoys all the promised parties, music, and dancing, but is taken by surprise when young love comes knocking. Does the festive romance of a
Sea View Christmas hold the key to a happily-ever-after for both sisters?

Spend the holiday season with the Summers sisters on the charming Devonshire coast, where family bonds are strengthened, love is rekindled, and Christmas joy abounds. 

Bethany House Publishing, September, 2025
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

TRUTH BE TOLD by Patricia Raybon, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula #ReleaseDay

(An Annalee Spain Mystery Book 3)

REBECCA'S REVIEW:

"A lady! She's dead!"

Sure enough, while Cooper Coates' guests are being entertained with food and drink on the lawn of his Five Points mansion, the voice of his daughter Melody heralds the sort of alarm that no one expects to hear at such a swanky event; a lovely young woman's dead body has been discovered in the corner of the potting shed. Who is she, how has she died, and more importantly . . . why is she dead? Annalee Spain, a guest at the party, immediately morphs into detective mode, noticing something that looks remarkably out of place . . . a gorgeous red, streaked with fuchsia, rose bud clasped in the hand of the deceased.

"Somebody lured her, and used her, and stole her life, and tried to pretty it up with a covering of flowers."

As most murder investigations are prone to do, it takes a team of people and a wealth of information to untangle the truth. With the help of the good Lord above, the mighty fine pastor (that Annalee is pretty sure represents her future), a posse of church women who are as loyal and helpful as any detective could ask for, and an energetic teen named Eddie whose eagerness is unmatched . . . Annalee is equipped to sniff out any and every crumb of information that comes her way. What is really going on? Is she way in over her head? (and why won't her garden grow???? . . . there are life lessons in that dirt!) The truth is just begging to be told.

Talk about putting my nose in a book!!! . . . Once acclimating back into the setting and its characters, there was no slowing down around the curves, much less tapping the brakes. With her uncanny ability to pull clues in and out of thin air, the author delights her readers by including them in every aspect of the chase to find a dangerous, elusive killer, who just might be hiding in plain sight, or not! An outstanding historical mystery!

"Because with murder, things get worse before they get better."
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Interviews and Reviews. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. 4.5 stars


PAULA'S REVIEW:
It is no secret that I love historical books and suspense stories, too. This is the perfect blend that satisfies my mystery-loving heart. 

In this well-crafted book, Annalee Spain is savvy and smart but humble and full of faith. This story set, in 1924 Denver, Colorado, is full of the cultural mix of black and white and the clashes and harmony that occurred. I love the quotes by Sherlock Holmes at the beginning of each chapter. I love that Annalee is a Professor of Theology and is well read in literature, too. And I love that she sees her calling as a detective in order to help the ones who have no voice. 

Annalee seeks the will of God and knows He has the answers. Hard things may come her way but she has loyal friends from all walks of life. She treats all people with respect. She has the support of a pretty nice pastor boyfriend, too! This is a fantastic story that takes a look at what life was like in 1924 Denver. Hope there are more stories in this series. * I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.* .5 stars and a solid faith thread


Tyndale House Publishing, June 2024
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy TRUTH BE TOLD at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

Share This Post

How Our Giveaways Work: The Official Rules

We, the ladies of Inkwell Inspirations, would love to give free stuff to everybody. Since we can't, we will often have a giveaway in conjunction with a specific post. Unless otherwise stated, one winner will be drawn from comments left on that post between the date it was published and the end of the giveaway as determined in the post. Entries must be accompanied by a valid email address. This address is used only to contact the commenter in the event that he/she is the winner, and will not be sold, distributed, or used in any other fashion. The odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. NO PURCHASE, PLEDGE, OR DONATION NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

Pinterest