A Wager with the Matchmaker (A Shanahan Match, #3) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

After her brother's entanglement with an Irish gang threatens their family's safety, Alannah Darragh flees St. Louis and her troubled past, seeking refuge as a maid for the affluent Shanahan family. Alannah's resolve to avoid romance is tested by the undeniable attraction she feels for Kiernan Shanahan. Determined to maintain her position and the safety it provides, she vows to resist the pull of her heart despite the growing bond between them and their undeniable chemistry.

In the wake of a devastating fire, Kiernan Shanahan sees a shrewd opportunity to invest in a clay mine and brickyard to aid the city's rebuilding. To secure his venture, he seeks a wealthy bride with a substantial dowry. However, the matchmaker he consults has different plans. As danger looms and Alannah fights to keep her brother safe, Kiernan's protective instincts draw them closer together, but a future with him seems too far out of reach. It will take a miracle--or a wager with the wily matchmaker--to bring the unlikely couple together.

Be swept away in a tale of love, danger, and destiny in this captivating historical romance from bestselling author Jody Hedlund.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

This has been such a special series! I've enjoyed watching an Irish matchmaker work his magic for two members of the Shanahan family, but now, there's one more seeking his services! Kiernan Shanahan, with a long list of qualifications for an ideal wife, is finally ready to marry. Will he be surprised by the tricks in Bellamy McKenna's matchmaking arsenal?

I loved this book by one of my favorite authors, Jody Hedlund! It is set in 1849 St. Louis, during a time of suffering and tragedy surrounding a cholera outbreak and a great fire that destroyed much of the city. Hedlund's historical detail provides a powerful backdrop for the emotional upheaval of Kiernan and Alannah Darragh's budding relationship. A Wager for the Matchmaker has excellent character development, a captivating plot filled with history and faith, and a clean romance that sizzles with the chemistry between Kiernan and Alannah. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical Christian romance!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award. She lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats.

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.  

Learn more at Jody's Website     

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A SHANAHAN MATCH SERIES

Calling on the Matchmaker

Saved by the Matchmaker 

A Wager with the Matchmaker 

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Meet Me at the Grand (Jonathon Island, #1) by Lindsay Harrel

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Jonathon Island series is created by USA Today bestselling, award-winning author Susan May Warren.

She’s fighting to save her island’s legacy. He’s here to secure his family’s future. When their worlds collide, will they build something lasting—or tear each other apart?

Dani Sullivan is determined to revive Jonathon Island’s fading charm and reunite her fractured family. Her plan? Reopen the Grand Sullivan Hotel, a once-impressive landmark that’s been in disrepair for a decade. But without the funds to restore the hotel, Dani’s forced to accept help from Liam Stone—a big-city hotel developer whose sleek, modern vision is everything she’s trying to avoid.

Liam has never been one for small towns or rundown hotels, but this project isn’t just any job. His father’s health is declining, and if Liam can prove himself by turning the hotel around, he’ll finally earn the chance to take over the business so his dad can retire. But Jonathon Island is far from the high-end luxury projects he’s used to, and Dani’s fierce dedication to preserving its history clashes with everything Liam stands for.

As they battle over the future of the Grand, Liam starts to see Jonathon Island as more than just another project—it feels like the home he’s never had. But with his responsibilities pulling him back to Los Angeles, can he really stay? And can Dani trust him with her dream—and her heart?

A lot rides on the success of this project, but when emotions run high, will Dani and Liam find a way to work together—or will their differences tear them apart?

On Jonathon Island, love and loyalty are the ultimate balancing act.

AMAZON     SUNRISE SHOP

MY THOUGHTS.....

Revitalizing Jonathon Island and the historic Grand Sullivan Hotel seemed the perfect way for Dani Sullivan to restore her family, but an obsession with the past could stop her from finding a happy future. Poor Dani! Would she realize that the path to joy is often marked by change?

Meet Me at the Grand has well-defined characters, a beautiful setting, and a captivating conflict between Dani and Liam. Their strengths and weaknesses are evident; they're different as night and day, but their tantalizing chemistry cannot be denied! Author Lindsay Harrel convinced me they deserve a 'happily ever after', but where would it be? Life on beautiful Jonathon Island or living in a big city?

I recommend Meet Me at the Grand to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lindsay Harrel is a CBA best-selling novelist of romantic women’s fiction and lifelong book nerd who lives in Arizona with her young family and two golden retrievers in serious need of training.

With more than 15 years of editing and writing experience gained doing a variety of jobs, Lindsay now juggles stay-at-home mommyhood with writing novels.  As the Editorial Director of Sunrise Publishing, she has a passion for not only helping authors improve their stories and find their voice, but also for getting messages of hope out into the world.

When she’s not writing or chasing after her children, Lindsay enjoys making a fool of herself at Zumba, curling up with anything by Jane Austen, and savoring sour candy one piece at a time.

Connect with her at www.LindsayHarrel.com.

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JONATHON ISLAND SERIES

Meet Me at the Grand

Meet Me on Lilac Lane

View all my reviews

The Open Bible, NKJV: Read and Discover the Bible for Yourself by Thomas Nelson

ABOUT THE BIBLE

Life-changing power is waiting for you in the Word of God.

For over 50 years, The Open Bible has been the trusted companion for millions seeking a deeper connection with Scripture. This timeless edition goes beyond reading the Bible; it helps you uncover the richness and depth of God’s message, guiding you through the interconnected themes of this divine masterpiece that weave through Genesis to Revelation

Popular features include: 

• Topical Index to the Bible – This easy-to-navigate feature quickly displays the scriptural connections between more than 8,000 names, places, concepts, events, and doctrines.
• The Visual Survey of the Bible – The detailed 24-page visual overview of the Bible unfolds the people, events, and themes of scripture at a glance. Life application notes crystallize central spiritual truths.
• The Christian’s Guide to a New Life – A complete doctrinal overview of the Bible divided into 32 short Christian Guide articles supported by hundreds of Scripture references.
• How to Study the Bible – Expert advice for both personal and family Bible study, plus helpful principles of Bible interpretation.
• Concordance – Quickly find the Bible verses you’re looking for with over 6,200 word entries and 37,500 Scripture references.
• Over 200 Word Studies
• Over 40 Charts, Maps, and Illustrations
• Starred Messianic Prophecies—420 stars in the OT and NT denoting prophecies about Jesus
• And more – The Scarlet Thread of Redemption, Read Your Bible Through in a Year, 60 Days Through the Story of Scripture reading plan, Between the Testaments, Teachings and Illustrations of Jesus Christ, Prophecies of the Messiah Fulfilled in Jesus Christ, The Parables of Jesus Christ, The Miracles of Jesus Christ, A History of the Twelve Apostles, The English Bible and Its Development, The History of the Red Letter Bible, Facts about the Bible, The Laws of the Bible, Detailed Maps, A Harmony of the Gospels, and still more.
• Easy to follow, verse-by-verse layout
• Clear and readable 9-point NKJV Comfort Print®

Want to learn more?

   

Even more details can be found HERE

Ready to purchase your own copy? PURCHASE LINK 

MY THOUGHTS.....

I always enjoy viewing a new Bible, and this experience has been especially enlightening. The font of The Open Bible, NKJV is easy to read, the leather-soft cover and ribbon bookmark are visually appealing, and it is designed to lay flat. No more struggling with pages that won't stay put! It's also perfect for increasing your knowledge of God's Word. Study aids include a concordance, topical index, multiple charts, maps, and illustrations. Best of all, the words of Christ are shown in Red! This is truly an excellent Study Bible.

Many wonderful Bibles are available today but I always appreciate seeing the words of Jesus Christ written in RED!

Maps are always a plus! A Map of Jesus' Ministry is one of the eight  colored maps in this Bible, along with many charts and illustrations!

This is one of the many wonderful study aids to deepen my understanding of God's Word!

Others include The Parables of Jesus Christ, The Miracles of Jesus Christ, and A History of the Twelve Apostles.

Our former minister based his sermons on the NIV, but our new pastor prefers the NKJV, so this is the Bible I will carry to church from now on! Would you like to deepen your understanding of God's Word and enhance your devotion time? I recommend this 50th anniversary edition of The Open Bible, NKJV! It would also be a wonderful gift for Mother's Day, Father's Day, or those special graduates in your life!

I received a copy from the publisher via FrontGate Women's Blogger Network. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

#NKJVOpenBible     @nelsonbibles

ABOUT THE PUBLISHER

Thomas Nelson, one of the oldest and largest Bible publishers in the world, produces Bibles that display the authority and accuracy of God’s Word. With a history reaching back over 200 years, Thomas Nelson began its work with the publication of the King James Bible. Our publishing work now extends to the ownership and commissioning of the New King James Version, along with publishing other modern language editions of the Bible. Ultimately, our mission is to publish beautiful Bibles in multiple translations for every age and stage of life.

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Deadly Badlands Pursuit (Dakota K-9 Unit Book 2) by Sharee Stover

ABOUT THE BOOK

A K-9 team has a witness to defend…

and a murderer to track.

When Deputy US Marshal Gracie Fitzpatrick checks on a government witness, she unexpectedly walks into an ambush at Cameron Holmes’s ranch. She and her K-9 partner, Bane, fight off the assailant—but to protect Cameron, they must escape into South Dakota’s treacherous Badlands. Tracking dangerous enemies is what Gracie does, and Cameron’s life in witness protection has left targets on his back. With a killer waiting in the shadows, Gracie and Cameron must work fast to uncover the truth about who wants him dead…if they want to stay alive.

MY THOUGHTS.....

This riveting story, set in South Dakota's Badlands National Park, is filled with non-stop action, never-ending danger, and an unknown assailant who is always one step ahead of his prey. How much more can Gracie and Cameron endure?

Author Sharee Stover shares an emotionally charged thriller laced with sweet romance and an inspiring message of faith.  I was especially drawn to the unlikely alliance between Gracie, Cameron, and Gracie's special K9 partner, Bane. I recommend Deadly Badlands Pursuit to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

I received a digital copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Colorado native Sharee Stover lives in Nebraska with her real-life hero husband, three too-good-to-be-true children, and two ridiculously spoiled dogs. A self-proclaimed word nerd, she loves the power of the written word to transform, ignite and restore. She writes Christian romantic suspense combining heart-racing, nail-biting suspense and the delight of falling in love all in one. When she isn't writing, Sharee enjoys reading, crocheting and long walks with her obnoxiously lovable German Shepherd. 


Visit Sharee at her Website    Facebook    Twitter    Instagram

 

Books by Sharee Stover

Secret Past

Silent Night Suspect

Untraceable Evidence

Grave Christmas Secrets

Cold Case Trail

Tracking Concealed Evidence

Framing the Marshal

Defending the Witness

Her Duty Bound Defender

Anticipation Thursday: The Shop Down the Lane by Leslie Gould

Anticipation Thursday!

I'm always excited to learn about a new book by a favorite author. Today, for Anticipation Thursday, I'm sharing a new book scheduled to be released on May 6, 2025. I enjoy Amish fiction, so how can I not be excited about The Shop Down the Lane by Leslie Gould?

ABOUT THE BOOK

Lois Yoder has always found solace in the quiet life of Paradise, Pennsylvania, where she manages a gift shop that reflects her Amish community's simple values. Her tranquil world is upended when Moses Lantz, former Amish man turned Mennonite and the man who broke her heart, buys the shop with ambitious plans to transform it into a tourist hub--a move that Lois fiercely opposes.

Seeking a distraction, Lois joins a birdwatchers' circle letter under an alias--but unknown to her, Moses does the same at the urging of a friend. While their correspondence blossoms into a tender romance, the enmity between Lois and Moses in real life only intensifies. Can they overcome their animosity and embrace the love they've found through their letters, or will their stubborn hearts keep them apart forever?

Leslie Gould delights in this sweet and gently humorous Amish romance reminiscent of The Shop Around the Corner and You've Got Mail.

Why is my anticipation so great?

Leslie Gould has 49 published novels, and over half are centered around the Amish lifestyle. I recently read the three books of her Amish Memories series, and I was captivated by her knowledge of the Amish people and her skill in sharing it with readers. Gould's respect for their religious values, resistance to modern technology, and strong community spirit are evident in her entertaining stories!

I'm also intrigued that the plot of this new book was influenced by the movies The Shop Around the Corner and You've Got Mail. I love both of these movies, and I'm especially eager to see Gould's interpretation!

Want to learn more about Lois, Moses, and Paradise, Pennsylvania? The Shop Down the Lane is the first book in Gould's new series, Letters from Lancaster County. It releases on Tuesday, May 6th.

Need more convincing? Check out this endorsement from another beloved author of Amish fiction, Suzanne Woods Fisher!

Purchase information can be found HERE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslie Gould is the #1 bestselling and award-winning author of forty-eight novels, including the Amish Memories series and the Plain Patterns series. She’s sold 800,000 books over the last two decades. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history and communications and an MFA in creative writing. Leslie enjoys research trips, church history, and hiking, especially in the beautiful state of Oregon where she lives. She and her husband, Peter, have four adult children and two grandchildren.

Learn more by visiting Leslie's    Website  

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The Accused (Secrets to Keep #2) by Cara C. Putman

ABOUT THE BOOK

When a popular college student is murdered, her international roommate, Anneliese, becomes a prime suspect. But law professor Margeaux Robbins doesn't believe that the quiet, lonely German girl in her class is the killer.

Chase Crandall is a burned-out defense attorney ready to extricate himself from the grind of criminal law. After he loses a client to tragedy, he's ready for an in-house corporate position.

When Chase is assigned to Anneliese's case, Margeaux is horrified. She doesn’t want him to provide legal counsel—not after what happened to his past client. And not with the evidence incriminating Anneliese.

Despite their mutual misgivings, the lawyer and professor pair up to find the killer and prove Anneliese's innocence. Will they be able to untangle the mystery—and navigate their growing interest in one another—before the wrong person is charged with murder?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I've enjoyed Cara Putman's previous books, but this is now my favorite! The Accused is the page-turning tale of a young German exchange student accused of murdering her roommate. It has twists, turns, and non-ending suspense, but I was especially fascinated by the courtroom scenes. I felt like I was there, front and center, watching the legal teams spin their magic, as I held my breath, chewed my nails, and tried to weigh the evidence! What would the jury decide? Was Anneliese guilty, or was she just an innocent fall-guy?

This captivating story has multi-faceted characters, a well-developed plot, and an enlightened view of our country's legal system. Would you feel safe entrusting your freedom to a law professor and a lawyer unsure of his career path? I was fully engaged in this exciting legal thriller from author and lawyer Cara Putman!

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


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The award-winning, best-selling author of more than 35 books, Cara Putman graduated college at 20 and completed her law degree at 27. FIRST for Women magazine called Shadowed by Grace “captivating” and a “novel with ‘the works.'” Cara is active at her church and a full-time Clinical Associate Professor on business and ethics to undergraduate and graduate students at Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management. Putman also practices law and was a second-generation homeschooling mom for twelve years. Putman obtained her Master’s in Business Administration from Krannert and her J.D. from George Mason University Antonin Scalia School of Law. She serves on the executive board of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), an organization she has served in various roles since 2007. She lives with her husband and four children in Indiana. 

You can connect with her online her  on her Website     

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Secrets to Keep

The Vanished

The Accused

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The Pastor’s Hope by Meghann Whistler

ABOUT THE BOOK

Can they let go of the past…

To find a fresh start?

When pastor Nate Anderson says yes to being his father’s best man, he certainly doesn’t expect to be matched up with the maid of honor. The widowed single dad has been alone a long time but has never wanted to give his heart to anyone. Thankfully, recent widow Amanda Kobayashi feels the same way. But when Nate and Amanda are forced to take dance lessons before the wedding, there’s an undeniable connection between them. Can they ever overcome their losses and give love a second chance? 

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I often use 'heartwarming' when describing a book I've enjoyed, but this book is worthy of another descriptor! The Pastor's Hope is a heartwarming and UPLIFTING story that touched my heart and soul. Pastor Nate was able to encourage his congregation to forgive others, but his guilt prevented him from forgiving himself. Amanda was plagued with anger and bitterness after losing her husband. Neither of these wounded souls expected to find romantic love again until...God revealed His plans!

Author Meghann Whistler perfectly captures the grief, reluctance, and finally, amazement when they begin to view each other as more than friends. The Pastor's Hope has a beautiful setting, sweet chemistry, two adorable children, and an inspiring message of hope and faith. I recommend this captivating book to all who enjoy romantic Christian fiction!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meghann Whistler writes sweet Christian romance novels that won’t make your grandmother blush. 

A hopeless romantic who met her husband on a blind date, Meghann recently left her marketing career to pursue her lifelong passion of writing sweet, hopeful stories that demonstrate the power of love and grace.

Before settling down with her rocket scientist husband and raising three rambunctious boys, Meghann earned a B.A. in English from Amherst College and an M.F.A. in creative writing from Emerson College.
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CONNECT WITH MEGHANN: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Wychmere Bay Books by Meghann Whistler

Falling for the Innkeeper

The Baby's Christmas Blessing

Their Unlikely Protector

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Lizzie's Little Mouse (The Heart of the Amish, #8) by Anne Blackburne

ABOUT THE BOOK

Lizzie Has Dreams That Won’t Be Deterred
 
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
 
Lizzie Miller has wanted to own a New Orleans-style French bakery since she attended a wedding in New Orleans at age fifteen. So with her parents’ and the bishop’s permission, she did a two-year internship in a French bakery in New Orleans. Then she came home and worked for several years in the local Amish bakery, buying the business when it became available. And now someone wants her out. 

A string of unsettling events is surely meant to scare her away. But with the help of her friends, she will get to the bottom of why someone wishes her to fail in the bakery business. And along the way, she just may realize that sometimes dreams can be fulfilled unexpectedly—with the help of someone who was just waiting to be noticed. 

Maybe all Lizzie needs is a little faith and a lot of love.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Amish cooking is certainly some of the best, but Lizzie Miller longed to offer some French recipes to the people in Willow Creek, Ohio. Her dream of having a bakery was answered until strange happenings threatened to destroy all she'd been working for. Why was her bakery vandalized on its opening day, and who continued to target The Plain Beignet?

This newest addition to the Heart of the Amish series is a pleasing mix of romance, mystery, and the Amish lifestyle. Likable characters, an interesting hundred-year-old murder, and a surprising villain make this an intriguing cozy mystery!

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

When she isn't writing or working at her day job as the managing editor of a weekly newspaper in Southeast Ohio, Anne enjoys traveling to exciting new and beloved old places; visiting with friends, preferably on her front deck on a warm summer afternoon; swimming, kayaking, reading (she admits to three hours a day), and participating in community theater. She sings in her church choir and loves coffee and donut time after services, when she gets to see people she only sees at church. If Anne could live anywhere at all, it would be by water, where she would spend a lot of time walking in the sand, communing with God, through the wonder of His nature, and searching for sea glass.

Learn more at Anne's Website

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The Heart of the Amish Series

 The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele

Ruth's Ginger Snap Surprise by Anne Blackburne

The Quilt Room Secret by Lisa Jones Baker

Courting An Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele

Mary's Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne  

Serenity's Secret by Lisa Jones Baker

A Stolen Kiss by Mindy Steele

Lizzie's Little Mouse

View all my reviews

Whatever It Takes(Sisters in Arms #3) by Sarah Hanks

ABOUT THE BOOK

At the brink of the Civil War, Henrietta Frontenac is a fierce protector of her five younger sisters. As poverty and despair threaten their survival, Henrietta takes a bold step to protect her family. She disguises herself as a man to find work at the docks and is soon swept into the ranks of the Confederate army. Facing unimaginable risks, will she maintain her secret identity, or will unexpected love unravel all she’s worked for?

In the present, Everly Moore, a former wild spirit turned compassionate chiropractor, has spent fifteen years trying to redeem her past. When her beloved sister Ivy faces the heart-wrenching challenge of infertility, Everly finds herself at a crossroads, unsure if she can confront her own trauma and step up as Ivy’s surrogate. After Everly and Ivy stumble upon the story of their brave relative Henrietta, they are inspired to confront their own fears. But will they make the difficult choices that could change their lives forever?

Dive deep into this intertwined narrative where past and present collide, showcasing the unyielding strength of sisterhood. A story of love, resilience, and the battles that unite us across generations.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I loved this split-time story that explores the special bond existing between sisters! I enjoy historical fiction, so I was especially drawn to Henrietta's story, which takes place during the Civil War. I was immediately captivated by her efforts to help her family by posing as a male soldier during the Civil War, and the faith and strength that would become a guiding beacon for present-day sisters, Ivy and Everly. As they grapple with life-altering decisions, they are encouraged by Henrietta's diary entries! A perfect example of our need to preserve the past!

Whatever It Takes is a well-written story with amazing characters, a mesmerizing plotline, and a wonderful message of faith. Henrietta's bravery during the Civil War is inspiring, and the issues of infertility and surrogacy are so relevant in today's society. Hanks kept me turning the pages to see how Henrietta influenced Ivy and Everly. This was my introduction to her writing, but it won't be my last! I recommend Whatever It Takes to all who enjoy riveting Christian fiction!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Hanks is an award-winning author of Christian fiction in both the contemporary and historical genres. After spending over a decade mostly writing and teaching Sunday school curricula for churches in her community, she jumped into writing fiction full-time with her split-time novel Mercy Will Follow Me. She and her husband have nine children, a couple of whom seem to have inherited their mother’s love for playing with words and crafting stories. Though Sarah dreams of a cabin by the beach, the family lives jammed together in beautiful chaos near St. Louis, Missouri. She buys earplugs in bulk.

You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram

SISTERS IN ARMS

A Battle Worth Fighting

Fall Back and Find Me

Whatever It Takes

View all my reviews