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

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 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

LULU'S CAFE by T. I. Lowe, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

Clean and Wholesome Southern Romance

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Some scars don't ever heal . . . They're just too deep."

After barely surviving the brutality of an abusive relationship, Leah Allen follows what is left of her heart to the small South Carolina town of Riverton. Arriving in what could only be described as "death warmed over", she manages to snag a table at a lovely cafe where the food nourishes her body while the proprietor feeds her soul with an unconditional love that Leah only dreamed was possible. As her outward wounds slowly heal, it takes much longer for the ones inside to form a scar. And then along comes Crowley.

This story moves with a tender stealth that serves to magnify the impact of kindness, compassion, and everlasting joy. If only every town had a Lulu's Cafe! 

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

BackCover Blurb:
When a young woman is given a chance to reclaim her life in a small Southern town, she must reckon with the dark secrets she left behind in order to accept the love she deserves.

On the run from a violent past, Leah Allen arrives in tiny Rivertown, South Carolina, battered and broken but ready to reinvent herself. By a stroke of fate, Leah is drawn to the Southern hospitality of a small café, looking for a warm meal but finding so much more. Lulu, the owner, offers her a job, a place to stay, and a new lease on life. Leah quickly finds herself embraced by the quaint community as she tries to put herself back together.

Not long after arriving, Leah meets Crowley Mason, the most eligible bachelor in town. A lawyer and friend of Lulu’s, Crowley is wary of Leah’s sudden, mysterious arrival. Despite his reserve, something sparks between them that can’t be denied. But after all she’s been through, can Leah allow herself to truly love and be loved, especially when her first urge is to run?

Exploring the resiliency of both the heart and the spirit, Lulu’s Café gorgeously illustrates how old scars can finally heal no matter how deep they seem.

-Clean and wholesome Southern romance, perfect for fans of Kristy Woodson Harvey, Delia Owens, and Nicholas Sparks
-Themes of faith and friendship
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs
-Features a playlist inspired by the book

 

Tyndale Fiction, 2019, re-released 2025

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook

Buy LULU'S CAFE at Amazon, Christianbook or Baker Book House

THE ATLAS OF UNTOLD STORIES by Sara Brunsvold, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Until the fear is quieted, the hope can't be heard."

A road trip. An adventure. An experiment of sorts, but to Chloe Vance it was a lifeline. Spending time with her mother and sister was important to her, asking them to step outside of their comfort zones? . . .  a huge step of faith . . . because even though they didn't know it yet, Chloe's upcoming plans included a gigantic leap. . . all the way to Prague, where her dream job awaits.

Plotting a map featuring a menagerie of literary sites scattered throughout several midwestern states, Chloe prays that God will write His story upon their hearts as the miles beneath Goldie's (yes, her car has a name, she's that kind of girl!) tires challenge each woman's patience and preconceived notions about who they are and what they can become . . . dare she hope for the kind of bond that never leaves anyone behind? At times, it looks doubtful (or even impossible).

This carefully crafted character driven story uses its backdrop of historical references to awe inspire the women within its chapters to reach beyond their expectations, their fears, and their disappointments; turning to the One who can be their "courage to be still . . . led out of the valley by a shepherd".
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars

 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
A literary journey beckons them . . . and may profoundly rewrite their stories.

Chloe Vance, dreamer of the family, needs to tell her pragmatic mom, Edie, that she has accepted a low-paying art instructor role at a Christian school in Prague. Her older sister, Lauren--the "responsible one"--is doing all she can to hide the fact she's been fired for a foolish mistake and is desperately seeking her next career move. Meanwhile, Edie, estranged from her own sister following their mother's recent death, is frankly in no mood for anything else to change.

The one thing they can all agree on? Life in books sure is easier to navigate than life in the real world. As the three women embark on a nine-day road trip to visit significant literary sites throughout America's heartland, they hope to find inspiration through the works and lives of literary greats. As they experience firsthand the adventure and wonder of the classics, they'll discover the value of being honest with themselves--and their family--about their losses and failures. Only then can they come to terms with their own needs and desires and find support from the most important women in their lives--each other.

Book clubs will relish this trek through America's classic literature as award-winning author Sara Brunsvold pens an inspirational novel of mother-daughter relationships, sisterhood, literary themes, a cross-country road trip, and books about books. 

Revell Publishing, June, 2025

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

BUY The Atlas of Untold Stories at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

 

THE CODEBREAKER'S DAUGHTER by Amy Lynn Green, Reviewed by Paula and Winnie

A Novel of World War II, Codebreakers, 

and Mother-Daughter Relationships

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“I keep on because I have hope that if evil is ordinary, good might be too.” 

This book was perfect for me because I am interested in codebreakers and spies and their origins in the World Wars. What was totally unexpected and remarkable was that one setting in Geneva, Illinois, was just 12 miles from my childhood home in South Elgin and I was never aware of it despite the many times I went to Geneva. I love that it was based on real people such as husband and wife team Elizebeth and William Friedman who were innovators in code breaking and ciphers in the early days all the way from WWI and WWII and beyond. 

The dual timeline was interesting because it showed the parallels between Lily and her daughter Dinah and how they fit in to a secret, important aspect of the government. I did not guess who the spy was in the department that Dinah worked in but I got caught up in the feeling that she was being watched. There was a bit of tension between mother and daughter. When they got to collaborate on a project, it set the stage for some heartfelt revelations.

A stabilizing character was father Roger, who loved his wife and daughter, supported them, and allowed them to mature spiritually and emotionally.

This story was so good, I didn’t want it to end. It is my favorite by Ms. Green.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“But our lives and all of history are made up of small things done by small people.”

Amy Lynn Green’s books are always well-researched and filled with interesting tidbits about historical events. The Codebreaker’s Daughter is set in two different timelines and during two different wars—1917-18 and 1944. Diana Kendall and her mother Lillian each served the United States in different ways. This story is about their experiences but also about their relationship with each other. I enjoyed learning more about the women who helped during the wars and were able to make a difference.

“I keep on because I have to hope that if evil is ordinary, good might be too.”

Filled with historical detail, intrigue, suspense, and interpersonal relations, this book is a fascinating look into the contributions of women codebreakers and psychological warfare producers as they worked on the home front during the wars. Although I felt the pace was a little slow during parts of the story, it picked up toward the end with some twists and turns that sparked suspense and intrigue.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. All opinions are my own.

SEE REBECCA'S REVIEW:

BackCover Blurb:
In the heart of the US capital, Dinah Kendall's role for the Office of Strategic Services isn't the thrilling espionage career she dreamed of. Instead, she spends her days crafting rumors aimed at undermining Axis morale. As Dinah navigates her duties, she uncovers a startling revelation: Her mother, Lillian, was once a codebreaker, cracking military ciphers during the Great War alongside some of the nation's most brilliant minds. The deeper Dinah dives into her mother's past, the more secrets come to light--including the heavy cost of high-stakes codebreaking.

Lillian, though resolute in her decision to avoid war work, reluctantly enters the fray when old friends in Washington, DC, seek her expertise. Both mother and daughter find themselves working behind the scenes--and working together--to support the Allied cause. But just when Dinah begins to excel in her new position, everything she's worked so hard to obtain comes crashing down around her. Caught in a web of intrigue and unsure who to trust, she must piece together the truth in time to confront the shadowy threat that could compromise the impending D-Day invasion.

A compelling World War I and World War II home front novel inspired by true stories of codebreakers and OSS agents. Courage, danger, and a mother-daughter bond interweave in this compelling historical tale that will appeal to readers of Sarah Sundin and Madeline Martin. 

Bethany House Publishing, June, 2025

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

Buy THE CODEBREAKER'S DAUGHTER at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

 

 

THE ATLAS OF UNTOLD STORIES by Sara Brunsvold, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

 Contemporary Women's Fiction Book about Books 

and a Family Road Trip through Midwest America

PAULA'S REVIEW:

“On a road trip aimed at celebrating perspective-shaping books, her mom and sister staunchly remained the main characters in their own stories.”

A spur of the moment road trip to visit towns with literary connections was concocted by Chloe Vance so she could bond better with her mother Edie and reveal a life changing opportunity. Her sister, Lauren, reluctantly joins them after being let go from her job. But neither wants to reveal their secrets just yet. Mom Edie tells herself she is protective of her daughters but her relationship in the past with her own mother colors her perspective.
 

I loved the scenes in St. Louis, Mansfield and Branson because I live in Missouri. The literary settings were so much fun to learn about.
 

A defining moment came near the end when secrets came out in the open and the women realized that they really saw each other for the first time.
 

This was a book that caused me to deeply reflect on family relationships. A stabilizing character was dad Grant, who supported the three women and kept confidences.
 

The story was somber at times but had humor and showed the stages of spiritual maturity of each of the women. It was very different from the other books by this author but not any less significant.
*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

 

BackCover Blurb:
A literary journey beckons them . . . and may profoundly rewrite their stories.

Chloe Vance, dreamer of the family, needs to tell her pragmatic mom, Edie, that she has accepted a low-paying art instructor role at a Christian school in Prague. Her older sister, Lauren--the "responsible one"--is doing all she can to hide the fact she's been fired for a foolish mistake and is desperately seeking her next career move. Meanwhile, Edie, estranged from her own sister following their mother's recent death, is frankly in no mood for anything else to change.

The one thing they can all agree on? Life in books sure is easier to navigate than life in the real world. As the three women embark on a nine-day road trip to visit significant literary sites throughout America's heartland, they hope to find inspiration through the works and lives of literary greats. As they experience firsthand the adventure and wonder of the classics, they'll discover the value of being honest with themselves--and their family--about their losses and failures. Only then can they come to terms with their own needs and desires and find support from the most important women in their lives--each other.

Book clubs will relish this trek through America's classic literature as award-winning author Sara Brunsvold pens an inspirational novel of mother-daughter relationships, sisterhood, literary themes, a cross-country road trip, and books about books. 

Revell Publishing, June, 2025

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

BUY The Atlas of Untold Stories at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House

THE LIGHT ON HORN ISLAND by Valerie Fraser Leusse, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #NewRelease

Southern Women's Fiction about Community, Sisterhood, 

and Self-Discovery Set in Mississippi

PAULA'S REVIEW:

This novel exudes enough southern charm that I want to sit down at the table with Punk, Edie and the TenSpots and fill up on grits and shrimp, mud pie and sweet tea. You could feel the humidity of the Mississippi summer and the cooling breeze coming off the gulf.
 

The story takes place in 2002 and has Edie going back to Bayou de Chene to her grandmother Punk and a new job preparing photos and archiving stories about Hurricane Camille in Beloxi.
 

Second chance romance, grieving a loved one and encountering a mysterious light on Horn Island makes for an absorbing story, not to mention God appointed occurrences that could not be described as mere coincidence.
 

Ms. Leusse always provides a unique and relevant story of family, faith and life lessons. If you like southern fiction, immerse yourself in this wonderful story of love lost and found and friendship that lasts for a lifetime.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a strong faith thread

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

 

SUNRISE REEF by Irene Hannon, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula #ReleaseDay

   HOPE HARBOR NOVEL #11

Small Town Beach Contemporary Opposites Attract 

Clean Romance Set in the Pacific Northwest

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Had he walked in on paying guests who'd assumed he was an intruder . . .?"

Neither Bren Ryan nor Noah Ward had expected to meet each other in the middle of the night during a rather epic, and quite unfortunate misunderstanding (which would make a great story . . . someday), but after lengthy apologies and a detour of plans, the two eventually had the chance to exchange formal introductions during the light of day. Buttoned-up always-by-the-book Noah Ward lent credence to the stereotypical image of a certified public accountant, while Bren looked every bit the free-spirited barista, sporting purple hair and bright colored clothing. A match made in heaven? Doubtful. . . but possible. After all, this was Hope Harbor. . . 

and "coincidence is a small miracle in which God chooses to remain anonymous".

Another absolutely heart-warming story that solidifies the Hope Harbor reputation of being a place "where hearts heal . . . and love blooms".
*I received a copy of this book from Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. I also purchased a copy.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
It is always a joy to return to Hope Harbor and another romantic encounter in the place I want to be real so I could visit. Ms. Hannon has created a setting so welcoming and characters who show how a community can show kindness, caring and Christian love.

This time we meet workaholic CPA Noah who is visiting his dad Fred, with the idea of convincing him to move back to St Louis. And then there is Bren, a barista at The Perfect Blend, who we met in a previous book. In this case opposites attract. And boy does this meeting stand out!

As always there are characters who are old favorites like Father Murphy and Reverend Baker who rib each other goodnaturedly and Charley and his taco stand where he serves up godly wisdom for free. This time his advice is to look beyond the surface to the heart inside.

Yay! There will be a book 12! And hopefully more as well.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through Interviews and Reviews 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:
Sometimes you have to look beneath the surface to find the treasure within

After years of searching, Bren Ryan has found her place in Hope Harbor. Working as a barista suits her to a T, as does the laid-back vibe of her adopted town. Nothing is lacking in her life--except romance. But that's okay. Men are a complication she doesn't need.

Buttoned-up CPA Noah Ward isn't looking for love, either, when he arrives in town on a mission to convince his father to move closer to him. And he certainly doesn't intend to fall for the quirky, free-spirited woman who's taken up residence in his father's guest cottage.

But when Noah finds himself sucked into Bren's quest to help a struggling teen, might the two of them discover there's more to each other than meets the eye?

Come home to Hope Harbor--where hearts heal . . . and love blooms. 

Revell Publishing, April, 2025

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

BUY SUNRISE REEF at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THE KEEPER by Charles Martin, Reviewed by Kim #ReleaseDay

KIM'S REVIEW:

I have been hoping for a 4th story in this series for what feels like forever! I am so glad Charles Martin decided to continue and give us The Keeper! I absolutely love his stories and this series is one of my favorites of his! I love Murphy and Bones, and their mission and that each and every secondary character adds such depth to this series!

I can’t really say a lot about this story since it is book #4 and I don’t want to give anything away, so I’ll just say, I really loved how everything worked out in this book. The heartfelt way Mr. Martin writes just brings you into the story and has you rooting for these characters. Speaking of the characters, so many of them have grown and healed so much since the first book. I love to see the hope and the healing! My heart hurt for Murphy so much as he was trying to heal. The human trafficking parts, as usual, broke my heart and made me ache that this really happens.

I thought this was the final story in this series, but I love that the door was left open for more! I am so hoping this series continues. Do not miss these stories!
*I received a complimentary copy of this story. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light. 4 stars.

 

BackCover Blurb:
USA TODAY and ECPA bestselling series

Combine James Patterson and Colleen Hoover and you'll start to understand why readers are riveted by the Murphy Shepherd series from New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin: gripping action, heart-wrenching emotion, and deep questions that deserve to be considered.

Bones--Murphy Shepherd's teacher, mentor, priest, and friend--is gone. Devastated by the loss and unsure how to continue the rescue work they started, Murph has no choice but to jump back in when the worst happens. His longtime friend and current United States vice president, Aaron Ashley, has been a silent partner in the fight against trafficking. But in spite of having the best security available, his three daughters have been taken bound and blindfolded from their home by an extraction team that left no clues and no trace--just an empty house, a bereft mother, and nine dead Secret Service agents. Only Murph and his team have a hope of finding them.

Bones may have made the ultimate sacrifice by taking down his own brother and the dark network he led, but there are still others in this network where evil is the currency and power is the prize. Soon Ashley drops out of the presidential race and a new candidate emerges--someone who is ready, too ready, to step into the race and the Oval Office.

Bones taught Murph that the needs of the one, the lost one, outweigh those of the ninety-nine. In his first rescue without Bones beside him, Murph's fight against human trafficking takes him across the globe and through the halls of government to destroy the network and save the lives and souls of those taken.

The Murphy Shepherd series is simultaneously a tender love story, a heartrending search for freedom, an exploration of the terrible cost of human trafficking, and an anthem to the power of love to create change when it shows up regardless of the cost. The Keeper raises the stakes even further, so be ready--you won't want to put it down until you reach the very last page. 

 

Thomas Nelson Publishing, April, 2025

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook

Buy THE KEEPER at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

THE NOVEL ADVENTURES OF NATALIE DAUGHTRY by Susan Tuttle, Reviewed by Kim

Treasures of Halstead Manor

KIM'S REVIEW:
Susan Tuttle is one of my favorite authors. I love her writing style, storylines, and characters. In fact, "Love You, Truly" is one of my top reads of all time! If you haven't read her work yet, I highly recommend that you do!

"The Novel Adventures of Natalie Daughtry" is a romantic adventure featuring a literary treasure hunt. How fun does that sound? When Natalie and her friends discover there might be a rumored copy of a handwritten and illustrated Lewis Carroll manuscript, they decide to embark on a quest to find it. Natalie and Mason's marriage is seriously struggling, so when Mason chooses to join the team to save their relationship, the adventures truly begin. I adore second-chance romances!

Although this story is the second book in the Treasures of Halstead Manor series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I’m looking forward to book three!
*I received a complimentary copy of this story. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light. 4 stars!

BackCover Blurb:
In pursuit of a rare book, will Natalie and Mason find each other again?

With her twenty-plus-year marriage on the brink of collapse, bookish Natalie Daughtry immerses herself in her new bookstore job. When the mysterious Caspar gathers Natalie and her friends Everleigh and Brooke for the second time, she's ready for an adventure to disperse the turmoil clouding her marriage. Caspar enlists their help in searching for a rumored copy of Lewis Carroll's handwritten and illustrated manuscript of Alice's Adventures Under Ground. Natalie is immediately enticed--this is the perfect distraction.

But then Mason joins the team, and suddenly Natalie and her husband are side-by-side on the search for this elusive treasure. Being forced to work together has them tumbling deep into their past, seeking answers to old misunderstandings. When they emerge from the rabbit hole, things aren't the same. Will they rediscover the love that once held the pages of their life together? 

 

Kregel Publishing, March, 2025

Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or  Baker Book House

GRANDMA RUTH DOESN'T GO TO FUNERALS by Sharon Mondragon, Reviewed by Rebecca #ReleaseDay

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"I am Sarah Elizabeth, Grandma Ruth's favorite granddaughter."

Living the role of Grandma Ruth's favorite means that Sarah doesn't always have a lot of free time . . . running all over town at her beloved grandma's bidding (after working full time hours as an accountant)and yes . . . attending funerals in her stead, only to come home and share every detail of the elaborate event . . . every single little detail.

There was one funeral in particular that catapulted to extreme importance, because the widow (a very close friend of Grandma Ruth) had become utterly distraught over her husband's last words, which made those words in question extremely important to Grandma Ruth, which in turn made them a priority for Sarah Elizabeth too  . . . to "investigate", no gossip allowed, only conversations that qualified as investigative.

In addition to her newly minted role as the household detective, Sarah is juggling her personal life, or lack thereof, while trying to side step set-ups by the grandmothers (now there were two seniors interested in her love life). Was that a bad thing? Time would tell.

This charming ode to southern grandmothers is absolutely delightful in every way on every page. Case closed!
*I volunteered to review a complimentary copy of this novel. All opinions stated above are entirely my own. 4.5stars

BackCover Blurb:
In a small town where gossip flows like sweet tea, bedridden Mary Ruth McCready reigns supreme, doling out wisdom and meddling in everyone's business with a fervor that would make a matchmaker blush. When her best friend, Charlotte Harrington, has her world rocked by a scandalous revelation from her dying husband P. B., Mary Ruth kicks into high gear, commandeering the help of her favorite granddaughter, Sarah Elizabeth, in tracking down the truth. Finding clues in funeral condolence cards and decades-old gossip dredged up at the Blue Moon Beauty Emporium, the two stir up trouble faster than you can say "pecan pie."

And just when things are starting to look up, in waltzes Camilla "Millie" Holtgrew, a blast from P. B.'s past, with a grown son and an outrageous claim to Charlotte's inheritance. But as Grandma Ruth always says when things get tough, "God is too big." With him, nothing is impossible--even bringing long-held secrets to light. Grandma Ruth and Sarah just might have to ruffle a whole mess of feathers to do it.

Kregel Publications, February 11, 2025

Available in digital ebook, or paperback

Buy GRANDMA RUTH DOESN'T GO TO FUNERALS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

A YEAR OF FLOWERS by Suzanne Woods Fisher, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

(A Sweet Romance 4-in-1 Novella Collection Set in a Flower Shop about Friendship and Second Chances)

 

 REBECCA'S REVIEW:

Jaime Harper was like a fish out of water, moving from a small town in North Carolina to one of the largest cities in the country, New York. Pursing her dream of becoming a professional florist finally came true when the photo of her random design caught the eye of a well-known entrepreneur, Liam McMillan, whose event planning company was highly sought after by members of the city's elite. But what began as a dream turned into a nightmare when . . . and then . . .  - "An Apology in Bloom."

"Plan on attending this." Florist Claire Murphy's boss has just informed her that she was pre-registered to attend the, "Blooming With Excellence: Elevating Customer Skills for Florist Shop Workers" convention. The idea! Her customer service skills were just fine, thank you very much . . . weren't they? Instead of taking advantage of the opportunity to deepen her professional connections and perfect her ability to converse with customers, Claire comes face to face with an illusionist from her past. And a sad ultimatum (or opportunity?) for her future. - "A Bouquet of Dreams"

"You know what I love most about . . . compost? . . . A compost heap is full of mistakes. Full of leftovers and discards. And look what it ends up turning into. Something good." Dynamics! The dynamism between flower-farmer-wanna-be Tessa Anderson and soil specialist Dawson Greene is epic! . . . and inspirational . . . and romantic . . . and everything that it takes to send Tessa's life on a new trajectory . . . or perhaps a re-birth of a former one. - "A Field of Beauty"

The completion of this collection is just as lovely as you are expecting it to be. Three friends re-united through their love of flowers, discovering who matters most in the process, and finding forgiveness when and where they need it most . . . but . . . it wasn't nearly as easy as it sounds. It never is. - "A Future in Blossom"
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurb:
In this collection of four heartfelt novellas, three former friends have found success in the floral industry, but happiness--and love--remain elusive.

In An Apology in Bloom, wedding florist Jaime Harper is on a meteoric rise, working for an event company led by a successful and way-too-handsome boss. When a letter arrives from her past mentor with an offer too good to pass up, will she stay or head back to her hometown?

In A Bouquet of Dreams, Claire Murphy has always dreamed of owning a flower shop, and when her employers hint at retirement, she believes her moment has arrived. But first she must confront her past--and the man who caused her to flee her hometown years ago.

In A Field of Beauty, Tessa Anderson has found an acre of farmland to start her flower farm and forget the past. She's grateful for the help of two men--her boyfriend, Tyler, and a quiet soil specialist named Dawson. But as the farm finally starts to bloom, Tessa will discover something that challenges everything she's built.

In A Future in Blossom, Jaime, Claire, and Tessa return to their hometown, finally ready to face each other and their beloved mentor, flower shop owner Rose Reid. As they unite to pull off an extraordinary wedding, amid the flurry of preparations they just may find their way to forgiveness.

Revell Publishing, November, 2024

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

Buy A YEAR IN FLOWERS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

TEA WITH ELEPHANTS by Robin Jones Gunn, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

(Suitcase Sisters Book #1): 

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

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Fernweh . . . 'a longing to go to far away places'."

Finally! What had seemed like an impossibility was suddenly possible. Fern Espinoza and Lily Graden's teen dream of traveling to Africa together had been providentially gifted at just the right time in their lives (did they even know that?). Proud of themselves for traveling such a long distance with only one suit case apiece (after all, they were affectionately dubbed the "suitcase sisters"), their invisible baggage would prove to be much more cumbersome.

Determined to put her personal dilemmas aside, Fern grabs hold of the golden opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with her best friend, eagerly absorbing the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the African culture with pure abandon. Lily's response, while enthusiastic, becomes a bit more measured as the days pass by; her exterior positivity cracking just enough for Fern to glean the truth of the matter. Is "Aslan on the move" in both of their lives, as Fern's husband Danny so fervently believes?

An absolute delight of a story! Perfectly paced with mesmerizing descriptives, the chapter flow easily invites the reader to travel along with Fern and Lily during a chance of a lifetime adventure, waiting and watching carefully as they search for healing in the fractured crevices of their hearts, just the sort of places where God promises to draw near.

"Creator of this beautiful world, what would bring You joy in this next season of possibilities in my life?"
*I volunteered to read a complimentary copy of this book and was no obligated to provide a positive review. 

 

BackCover Blurb:

Ever since they met as teenagers volunteering at a conference center in Costa Rica 20 years ago, Fern Espinoza and Lily Graden have shared a close friendship, even though they live in different states. They can hardly believe it when their teen dream of traveling to Africa together becomes a reality. It's the trip of a lifetime--but life sure isn't what they thought it would be back when they were young.

Along with their suitcases, each woman brings along emotional baggage that weighs heavily on them. Yet the people they meet and the places they experience have the power to change their hearts--but only if they surrender to the lessons God wants to teach them in this unexpected land of emerald tea fields, graceful giraffes, and rambunctious elephants.

Pack your bags and get ready for adventure as Robin Jones Gunn invites you on a safari of the heart in this vulnerable exploration of how to move forward in faith even when the future is uncertain.

 

Revell Publishing, October, 2025

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

Buy TEA WITH ELEPHANTS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House