Once Upon a Christmas Carol by Melody Carlson

ABOUT THE BOOK

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.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Carol Langstrom had grown to hate Christmas, and her aversion always made December 26th the best day of her Christmas season! And then, an unexpected change in plans offered her a glimpse of a celebration filled with amazing food, Christmas carols, and being part of a loving family. Had Carol finally discovered what others had always known?

I loved watching Carol bond with an aunt she'd never known, and her introduction to Aunt Maria's amazing neighbor had me laughing out loud. I always look forward to a new Christmas story by Melody Carlson, and this book didn't disappoint. It has all of the "Hallmark vibes", including intriguing characters, a wonderful small-town setting, and the excitement of preparing for the holidays. Throw in sweet romance and unexpected blessings, and the result is a Christmas novella to treasure! I thoroughly enjoyed Once Upon a Christmas Carol!

I received a complimentary digital copy from the author, but I also purchased my own print copy. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of more than 250 books with sales of more than 7.5 million, including many bestselling Christmas novellas, young adult titles, and contemporary romances. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award, her novel All Summer Long has been made into a Hallmark movie, and the movie based on her novel The Happy Camper premiered on UPtv in 2023. She and her husband live in central Oregon. 

Connect with Melody

Amazon Author Page       Facebook     Instagram     

Bookbub 

Melody Carlson's Christmas Novellas 

Christmas in Winter Hill

The Christmas Swap

A Christmas in the Alps

A Quilt for Christmas

A Royal Christmas

The Christmas Tree Farm

Once Upon a Christmas Carol

View all my reviews

First Comes Marriage...Then Comes Murder (Women of Wynton's Mystery, #2) by Donna Mumma

ABOUT THE BOOK

Vivien's Bridal Creations Found at Murder Scenes

Mid-century glam meets murder mayhem in a series of cozy mysteries at Wynton's Department Store.

It is 1956 in Levi City, Florida. Vivien Sheffield, renowned bridal gown designer and consultant for Wynton's Department Store, is facing the greatest challenge of her career. Someone has been killing brides who wore one of her custom gowns in their wedding! Vivien's fellow employees and close friends--Audrey, Mary Jo, and Gigi--and her assistant Mirette spring into action to save Miss Vivien and the young brides of Levy City before the murderer succeeds at destroying Vivien's business at Wynton's. . .and her reputation.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

I loved another chance to spend time with the women at Wynton's Department store! This second book in the Women of Wynton's Mystery series allowed me to learn more about the personal lives of Miss Vivian, Audrey, Mary Jo, Gigi, and Mirette, as they worked to solve a troubling mystery. Why were brides around Levy City being murdered, and why were the clues pointing to Miss Vivian? Who was trying to ruin her bridal business?

Author Donna Mumma guided me on a trip down memory lane, back to 1956, with mentions of department stores, fashionable attire, popular movies, and TV shows of that period. Most of all, I enjoyed the well-defined characters and the special friendship that these women shared, along with their efforts to find the killer and prevent more damage to Miss Vivian's reputation.

If you enjoy mystery, history, and characters you'd love to have as friends, grab a copy of First Comes Marriage...Then Comes Murder. I look forward to more of Mumma's stories!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Donna Mumma perfected storytelling in her first grade classroom, spinning tales exciting enough to settle a roomful of antsy six-year-olds. She is an award winning author who loves to blend history, mystery, and a dash of hope in stories that explore ordinary people who learn extraordinary life lessons. Donna is an active member of Word Weavers International, serving as president for the Tampa chapter as well as a mentor for chapters around the country. She was recognized as the Word Weavers traditional groups president and mentor of the year in 2022. She also serves as a line editor and contributor for Inskpirationsonline.com, a site featuring devotions written for writers by writers. An avid believer in education, Donna earned her M. Ed in elementary education and writes educational blogs and articles to assist teachers overseas for the International School Project. A native Floridian, she loves sharing life with her husband and her energetic collie, Duke.

Learn more by visiting Donna's    Website

Follow her on Facebook     Instagram     Pinterest

WOMEN OF WYNTON'S MYSTERY

The Women of Wynton's

First Comes Marriage...Then Comes Murder

View all my reviews

A Visit with Award-Winning Author Erica Vetsch!

I'm so excited to have a best-selling, award-winning author as my guest today!  Erica Vetsch's historical fiction is always top-notch, and her latest novel is no exception. A Scheming in Parliament is a fantastic read!

Erica, welcome to my blog! 

Thank you, Connie, for letting me come visit with your readers! I really appreciate it. (Connie was kind enough to join my launch team for my latest release, A Scheming in Parliament.)

ASiP as I call it for short, is set in England during the Regency Era. The Regency Era dates from 1810-1820, when King George III was deemed incapable of ruling due to health issues, and his son, the future King George IV, stepped in to be his Regent, ruling in his stead. 

One of the most easily identifiable indicators of whether something is Regency or not is women’s fashions. Dress styles changed dramatically around the Regency. Gone were the stomachers, panniers, and high, powdered wigs. Instead, fashion followed a neo-classical path inspired by ancient Greek and Rome.

Women wore their hair naturally, with braids, clustered curls, and shorter bangs/fringes over the forehead.

Their gowns changed to include an Empire (or if you wanted to be high-toned you would use the French pronunciation of Ohm-peer) waistline and flowing skirts that elongated the body and hid the waist and hips. 

The Empire waistline takes its name from Empress Josephine, of France, who first modeled the style. As with many fashions in Regency England, anything done in the French court quickly crossed the channel and became an absolute necessity for Regency women.

Regency fashions enjoyed an interesting period between early Georgian styles which were elaborate and unwieldly and those of the Victorian Era where it seemed the bigger your hoopskirts the better.

I have sewn two different Regency gowns, and they are very comfortable to wear. Would you like to see this style make a comeback?

When I was a teenager, I actually had a couple of Empire-style dresses. They weren't long gowns, but I remember how special those dresses made me feel! 

I loved learning about the fashion during this period. Now let's talk about Philippa and Sir Bertrand!

                                                  

ABOUT THE BOOK

"Vetsch keeps the stakes high and the plot twists frequent . . . Readers will have a hard time putting this down."

—Publishers Weekly

Evil is masquerading in the halls of Parliament, and Sir Bertrand Thorndike is tasked with investigating from the inside. With his new position as a member of the House of Commons, he has access to the power brokers of English government. His tactic is to listen and learn, careful not to reveal his true motives, and he’s quickly inducted into the mysterious Theban Club.

Miss Philippa Cashel's mission, the Princess Charlotte Eleos School for Women in Need, is thriving with donations, and the students are learning skills to help them earn their livings in honorable ways. But when a dear friend's past is revealed by blackmail, Philippa must wrestle with the question, Is it ever right to do the wrong thing?

Bertie's and Philippa's missions collide when Bertie uncovers a dangerous plot involving vulnerable women. He and Philippa join forces against the corruption threatening to topple England's government, all while navigating their outward reputations and inward feelings for each other.

ASIP can be purchased from AMAZON.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

It's your turn, Erica! What do we need to know about Erica Vetsch?

I love Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When I'm not writing fiction, I'm planning my next trip to a history museum. You can connect with me at my website, www.ericavetsch.com and you can find me on Facebook at The Inspirational Regency Readers Group, where I spend way too much time! 

Thanks again for visiting my blog today! I can't wait to read the next book in your Of Cloaks & Daggers series!

My review of A Scheming in Parliament can be found HERE!

A Scheming in Parliament (Of Cloaks & Daggers #2) by Erica Vetsch

ABOUT THE BOOK

Evil is masquerading in the halls of Parliament, and Sir Bertrand Thorndike is tasked with investigating from the inside. With his new position as a member of the House of Commons, he has access to the power brokers of English government. His tactic is to listen and learn, careful not to reveal his true motives, and he’s quickly inducted into the mysterious Theban Club.

Miss Philippa Cashel's mission, the Princess Charlotte Eleos School for Women in Need, is thriving with donations, and the students are learning skills to help them earn their livings in honorable ways. But when a dear friend's past is revealed by blackmail, Philippa must wrestle with the question, Is it ever right to do the wrong thing?

Bertie's and Philippa's missions collide when Bertie uncovers a dangerous plot involving vulnerable women. He and Philippa join forces against the corruption threatening to topple England's government, all while navigating their outward reputations and inward feelings for each other.

AMAZON     

MY THOUGHTS.....

"Is it ever right to do the wrong thing?" This is a question we've all pondered, and it's a major theme explored in Erica Vetsch's new book, A Scheming in Parliament. Set in London, in 1816, this story revolves around corruption in the English Parliament and the newly appointed member of the House of Commons who is determined to correct it.

This page-turner is filled with adventure, mystery, and inspiration. I loved the spiritual themes that are woven throughout the story: praying for answers, understanding that we may have to wait for His answers, and recognizing that God will forgive anyone!

Talk about endearing characters! Aunt Dolly, Marcus, Charlotte, and of course, Philippa and Bertie! Philippa Cashel believes that her relationship with Sir Bertrand Thorndike is only a working partnership, but it doesn't take long to recognize that there's so much more! Romance? Oh, it's there and it's sweet! Bertie & Philippa experience the best kind...a slow burn that could easily burst into flame! Will we see it happen?

I loved the reunion with characters we've met before in this second book of the Of Cloaks & Daggers series. My only complaint? Wondering how long I have to wait for another visit to the Haverly Universe!

I highly recommend 'A Scheming in Parliament' to all who enjoy inspirational Regency romance!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher via Net Galley, but I also purchased a print copy. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota. Learn more about Erica at ericavetsch.com.

Connect with Erica by visiting ericavetsch.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Facebook     Instagram     Pinterest

  

OF CLOAKS & DAGGERS

A Thieving at Carlton House

A Scheming in Parliament

View all my reviews

The Pretender: The Big Valley Disappearance (Mifflin County Mystery #3) by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Woman Missing for Two Years Suddenly Returns Home

In book three of A Mifflin County Mystery series, Rosa Petersheim’s sudden reappearance creates more hurt and confusion in the Big Valley.
Two years since Rosa Petersheim mysteriously disappeared from her Amish home, there has been no word from her. Her family and friends have suffered in the silence, though they have tried to move on with life.
 
Then one day Rosa just as suddenly reappears at her parent’s home. . .with a husband in tow.
 
Rosa is ashamed of the choices she made that caused her to leave home. And now that she is back, her father is not welcoming and her siblings and friends want explanations that she can’t give.
 
Will Rosa’s family accept her and Anthony? Can the Big Valley ever be home again?

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS     

MY THOUGHTS.....

Finally! Finally, we learn what happened to the young Amish girl who disappeared from her home in the Big Valley two years ago. Rosa Petersheim returns to Belleville, Pennsylvania, but her homecoming isn't as happy as you would expect. Rosa has a secret, so she reluctantly introduces Anthony Reeves as her pretend husband, but this soon illustrates what we all know: one lie can lead to many!

It's easy to assume that Amish people are exempt from lies, deceit, and sibling jealousy but Wanda E. Brunstetter's thought-provoking story reminds us that these feelings are common in all cultures. How do we repair the damage? Faith, forgiveness, and understanding are the keys!

I recommend The Pretender to all who enjoy well-developed characters, cozy mysteries, and faith-filled stories.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and receive numerous awards.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and family ties. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her  Website  Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest

A Mifflin County Mystery

The Protector

The Peacemaker

The Pretender

View all my reviews

Protecting the Texas Witness (Lone Star Defenders Book 3) by Virginia Vaughan

ABOUT THE BOOK

He has a witness to defend…

and their future hangs in the balance.

Deputy Drake Shaw rescues single mom Isabelle Morris from an assailant's attack, only to be mistaken for her late husband. After exposing the corruption at her health-care company, Isabelle fears danger has followed her and her daughter all the way to their remote cabin. Now Drake must keep them safe long enough for Isabelle to testify against her former boss. But when her child is taken, the stakes are raised. Can they survive to unravel the truth about the present…and the past?

MY THOUGHTS.....

Whistleblower Isabelle Morris needs protection until she can testify against her corrupt boss, but something is troubling about one of her protectors! She's never met Deputy Drake Shaw, but he seems so much like her deceased husband. Could he be Rayland's relative that she'd never met?

Protecting the Texas Witness is the intriguing story of a man who doesn't remember his past and a woman who begins to question the past she remembers! As I read this story, I kept hearing the song that mentions 'the heart won't lie'. Was Isabelle's heart telling her the truth even when circumstances pointed to a different scenario?

I enjoyed this book so much! Was it the support and protection from the other Lone Star Defenders? The strong mother-daughter bond between Isabelle and her teenage daughter, Kelsey, or maybe the realistic emotions. Author Virginia Vaughan shares a fast-paced mystery with intense danger, a surprising villain, and a strong message of faith. I highly recommend Protecting the Texas Witness to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense!

I received a complimentary ARC from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review!

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Virginia Vaughan is a former investigator for the State of Mississippi who left a promising career to pursue her dream of being a writer. Blessed to come from a large, Southern family, her fondest memories include hearing stories recounted by family and friends around the large dinner table. She was a lover of books even from a young age, devouring gothic romance novels and stories of romance, danger, and love. She soon started writing them herself, delving into the genre of romantic suspense, armed with her passion for writing and the knowledge gained from her criminal justice background.

Learn more about Virginia at her Website   Facebook  Twitter  Instagram     Pinterest

Lone Star Defenders

Dangerous Christmas Investigation

Missing in Texas

Protecting the Texas Witness

View all my reviews

Noble: The Story of Maakah (King David's Brides, #2) by Mesu Andrews

ABOUT THE BOOK

Princess Maakah of Geshur is duty-bound to create a political alliance for her father through marriage. The cancellation by King Saul of her betrothal to his fourth-born son compels Maakah's father to arrange an unexpected marriage to the rebel David ben Jesse, a shepherd-warrior anointed years earlier as Israel's future king. Taken aback by stories of David's fierceness and lowly birth, Maakah considers the match a degrading fate but obeys her father's wishes out of duty as her nation's only heir.

While alliances shift and enemies loom, Maakah navigates the delicate balance between her noble heritage and her growing respect for David's faith and leadership. When David and his army move to Hebron, and he becomes king over Judah, Maakah faces prejudice and suspicion from David's home tribe. In a land torn by war and divided loyalties, she must choose where her allegiance lies: with her people and heritage, or with an extraordinary destiny alongside David that beckons her from within.

Through Maakah's lens of nobility, courage, and love, beloved author Mesu Andrews skillfully presents a biblical tale of King David and his royal household.

MY THOUGHTS.....

"Life outside Geshur's walls was definitely more complicated than I had anticipated, and far more heartache than I had imagined."

These are the thoughts of Maakah, a Geshuran Princess, who abides by her father's wishes that she marry for his political advantage. Noble: The Story of Maakah is told from both Maakah and David's points of view. I was fascinated with the well-defined character development and intrigued by the unusual friendship that developed between Maakah and David's two wives, Ahinoam and Abigail. Yes, God's Plan provided David with six wives and six sons before he began his reign in Jerusalem, and Andrews peppered this story with many "what-ifs", including David's concerns about marriage to a pagan, gentile princess and Maakah's doubts about a lowly shepherd named David!

This gripping story features romance, history, and thought-provoking situations. It's perfect for anyone wanting 'can't-put-it-down' storytelling and a must-read for fans of biblical fiction! Andrews vividly depicts David's total reliance on God and Maakah's conversion to believing, trusting, and totally accepting David's God. Noble: The Story of Maakah is a wonderful example of Mesu Andrews's commitment to researching God's Word, imagining the possibilities, and then weaving fact and fiction into captivating biblical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a favorable review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mesu Andrews is the Christy Award-winning author of Isaiah's Daughter and her deep understanding of, and love for God’s Word brings the biblical world alive for readers. Andrews lives in North Carolina with her husband Roy. She stays connected with readers through newsie emails, fun blog posts, and frequent short stories. 

For more information, visit her Website      Facebook     Twitter   Instagram

King David's Brides

Brave: The Story of Ahinoam 

Noble: The Story of Maakah

View all my reviews

The Message Women’s Devotional Bible: The Gospels by Eugene H. Peterson

                                                                 ABOUT THIS BIBLE

The Message of the Bible by Women, for Women

The Scriptures are meant for us, to draw near to God and discover God’s vision for us. This devotional portion edition of The Message invites women of all ages and life experiences consider what it means to be made in God’s image and invited into God’s mission out of our unique design. With down-to-earth insights into the experience of women in the Gospels, and informed by the wisdom of women in our contemporary context, this Women’s Devotional Bible portion expands our imagination for faithfulness in our time.

Often overlooked in the Scriptures are women actively participating in the story of God. Many of them are unnamed; many of them are only mentioned or alluded to. But the message of the Scriptures is incomplete without them. This Bible portion draws our attention to the insights hidden in their stories and the relevance of their lives to ours. This collection of the Gospels is a portion of the full Women's Devotional Bible to come, which will written by women of diverse ethnicities, backgrounds, and vocations,320 topical devotions,Special Biblical section introductions highlighting the needs and interests of women,52 profiles on important figures in the Bible,Space and sensitivity for women to engage difficult and sensitive Bible passages, Fresh and candid insights into often-neglected Biblical passages and personalities.


The Message of the Bible by Women, for Women

 

• Contributions written by women of diverse ethnicities, backgrounds, and vocations
• 320 topical devotions
• Special section intros and insights on often-neglected Bible passages
• 52-character profiles, including important women not named!
• 
  

The message of the Scriptures is incomplete without women. Don’t miss their powerful stories.

The message of the Scriptures is incomplete without women. Don't miss their powerful stories!

Follow this link to hear from the contributors and get your copy: https://amzn.to/3HdFquF

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is such a special Bible! Since it is smaller than many Bibles, it is lightweight and very easy to hold. The attractive cover, beautiful ribbon bookmark, and two-column format are pleasing attractions, but the real pleasure is its easy-to-read language! I want to growne and mature as a Christian woman, and I often need help in understanding God's Word. The Message Women's Devotional Bible succeeds!

Another plus is the focus on women and their important roles in the history of the Bible. Some are well-known, others are lesser-known, and a few aren't even named, but their stories are meaningful accounts that need recognition! The Message addresses this by sharing 52 character profiles and 320 topical devotions written by female contributors. Their insights truly make this a devotional bible for WOMEN!

Ruth and Naomi! I love this beautiful love story between Naomi and her deceased son's wife.

In this devotion, we're reminded that God is hardly mentioned in this book, but His promises are evident. Ruth's day-by-day choices turned her from an outsider into a true daughter of Israel, fully adopted as one of God's chosen people. 

Who knows what our story might do? 

The Samaritan woman is never called by name. Instead, we know her as "the woman at the well." She was harshly judged but Jesus saw her worth!

She was also an evangelist! She convinced the whole village to check out Jesus!Her story is a perfect example that the "good news is often told best by those we wrongly assume are unworthy. 

I am thrilled to add this Bible as a supplemental resource in my worship time. It would also be a wonderful gift!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via FrontGate Christian Blogger Network. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

PURCHASE LINK

@FrontGateM #Review #Bible #DevotionalBible #TheMessage @theMessageBible @themessage #theMessageBible

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A Hundred Magical Reasons by Laura DeNooyer

ABOUT THE BOOK

Most fairy tales have happy endings, but is it too late for this one? After all, Mrs. Charlotte Rose Gordon, the disgruntled town recluse, is eighty-eight and has grown weary of fighting the dragons of her past—including the desire to clear her husband’s name of a 1918 crime.

Dragons of a different kind pursue Carrie Kruisselbrink.

During 1980, the summer of her private rebellion, Carrie defies parental expectations and pursues her café dream. While waiting for funding, she takes a job with Mrs. Gordon.

As Mrs. Gordon unfolds the story of her oppressive childhood and delightful friendship with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum, Carrie never expects to encounter her own fears and soul-searching.

In this modern-day fairy tale that weaves between 1980 and the early 1900s, Mr. Baum’s influence impacts each woman’s personal quests on a hero’s journey neither anticipates. Can Carrie and Mrs. Gordon find common ground in battling their respective dragons?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

If you love The Wizard of Oz, dual-time storylines, and exquisite storytelling, you will adore this book! Author Laura DeNooyer introduces readers to a cast of intriguing characters and a wonderful 'what-if' and 'could-be' plot that features narratives from both the early 1900s and 1980. Yes, L. Frank Baum and his family play important roles, but the primary focus is on Carrie Kruisselbrink and Charlotte Gordon.

A Hundred Magical Reasons has romance, but the beautiful love story is the developing friendship between Carrie and Mrs. Gordon. Both had unhappy childhoods, but was there something else that contributed to Mrs. Gordon's bitterness? Carrie introduces Charlotte Gordon to the wonderful concept of grace and redemption, and Charlotte nurtures Carrie's love of fantasy and fairytales!

DeNooyer gives readers a hundred reasons to love this book! I loved the literary references, the touching life-altering friendship between Carrie and Charlotte, and a magical ending that I didn't see coming! I recommend it to all who enjoy inspirational women's fiction.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laura DeNooyer thrives on creativity and encouraging it in others. As a Calvin College graduate, she is a teacher, wife, parent of four adult children, and a multi-award-winning author of heart-warming historical and contemporary fiction. Laura has served as president of her American Christian Fiction Writers chapter. When not writing, you’ll find her reading, walking, drinking tea with friends, or taking a road trip.

Learn more at Laura's Website 

All That Is Hidden

A Hundred Magical Reasons

View all my reviews

The Undercover Heiress of Brockton (Enduring Hope #2) by Kelly J. Goshorn

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Socialite in Disguise Seeks Truth and Justice

Henrietta “Etta” Maxwell is a hard-hitting investigative reporter for The Enterprise Daily. The catch? Etta must pen her columns under the nom de plume, Henry Mason—a fact that routinely puts a knot in her knickerbockers.

Leo Eriksson is a second-generation firefighter with a passion for rendering aid to those in need.
When Leo discovers that Henry Mason is really Henrietta Maxwell, the fire department’s wealthy benefactress, he agrees to keep her identity secret. After a sudden blast rocks the Grover Shoe Factory, Leo and Etta team up to determine if the explosion is related to a series of suspicious fires in the area.

When an unnamed source reveals Etta’s secret identity to a rival reporter, she falsely accuses Leo of being the informant. As the truth comes to light, Etta must persuade Leo to give her a second chance or lose the only man she’s ever loved.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Author Kelly J. Goshorn shares a compelling story based on true events that occurred in 1905. I'd never heard of the devastating explosion and fire that occurred in "Shoe City" or the repercussions from this tragedy. Newspaper reporter Henry Mason and fireman Leo Erikkson join forces to find the cause of the disaster, but there's much more for them to discover!

This is an intriguing look at journalism during the early 1900s. Socialite and heiress Henrietta Maxwell used the pseudonym Henry Mason because of the prejudice against female reporters, and her efforts to 'scoop' this story could be the break she needed. What would happen if Etta's identity was revealed?

I loved the budding friendship between Etta and Leo, and I was impressed that both of them were strong believers. Their relationship wasn't without conflict and drama, but Goshorn's plot allowed them to put their faith into action.

Mystery, history, romance, and faith! What more could you ask for in a historical fiction novel? I recommend The Undercover Heiress of Brockton to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kelly Goshorn weaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into inspiring stories of love, faith, and family set in America’s vibrant past. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys, binge-watching BBC period dramas, board-gaming with her family and friends, exploring historical sights, and spoiling her Welsh corgi, Biscuit.

To stay in touch with Kelly, sign up for her newsletter at https://kellygoshorn.com/my-writing/newsletter

Visit her  Website     Instagram     Facebook     Twitter/X     Pinterest.

View all my reviews

Splendor of the Land (The King's Men, #3) by Connilyn Cossette

ABOUT THE BOOK

Gavriel, a soldier in the elite company of Yonatan--son of King Saul--dreams of forging his destiny through crafting weapons with his own hands. Despite earning his place among Israel's finest, he is haunted by a dark past that no distraction can dispel. When his reckless behavior forces Yonatan to present him with an ultimatum, Gavriel is sent on a mission to persuade a distant tribe to sever their ties with the Amalekites.

Zahava, a gifted goldsmith hidden behind her father's legacy, lives in the shadows due to her physical affliction. Her talent, unmatched and unrecognized, is a closely guarded secret within her family. Disheartened by a love that seems unattainable, she resigns herself to a life of obscurity. However, when Gavriel arrives in her village, they're tangled together in a way no one could have imagined. As they navigate through unforeseen dangers and enemy threats, Gavriel must confront his past and either bend his knee to the One True King or lose his love forever.

Set against the backdrop of ancient Israel, bestselling author Connilyn Cossette breathes life into the Old Testament era with this exhilarating tale of redemption, courage, and sacrifice.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

The King's Men are back in action, and this time, the chief focus is on Gavriel, a soldier with an avid interest in both women and alcohol. Could a twist of fate lead him on a path to redemption? Would a Kenite metalworker help him understand forgiveness and grace?

Splendor of the Land is a mesmerizing story with amazing characters, exciting adventure, and a reminder of God's power to redeem. I especially loved the swoony romance that bloomed between Gavriel and Zahava. Who knew that a forced marriage could turn into a joyful time of realization, as they slowly got to know each other? Recognizing weaknesses but rejoicing in each other's strengths. Relishing sweet kisses, warm embraces, and truly cherishing each other!

I always admire this author's commitment to sharing God's Word. Connilyn Cossette weaves fictional details with one verse from 1 Samuel 15 into a captivating story that often sent me back to my Bible for more truths. Splendor of the Land is a powerful story of grace and redemption, and I highly recommend it to fans of historical romance and biblical fiction!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Connilyn Cossette is a Christy Award and Carol Award winning author whose books have been found on both ECPA and CBA bestseller lists. When she is not engulfed in the happy chaos of homeschooling two teenagers, devouring books whole, or avoiding housework, she can be found digging into the rich ancient world of the Bible to discover gems of grace that point to Jesus and weaving them into an immersive fiction experience. Although she and her husband have lived all over the country in their twenty-plus years of marriage, they currently call a little town south of Dallas, Texas their home. 

Connect with Connilyn at her Website  Twitter  Facebook  Amazon  Instagram  Pinterest

THE KING'S MEN

Voice of the Ancient

Shield of the Mighty

Splendor of the Land

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