Ambush of the Heart (Rocky Mountain Marshals #1) by Mary Connealy

ABOUT THE BOOK

As Owen Riley and his fellow marshals escort Delaney Bridger, her brother, and an escaped prisoner to Fort Russell, a gang of outlaws ambushes them, bringing death and devastation to their party. With their lives on the line and the outlaws in pursuit, Owen directs the rest of his battered group to temporarily seek hiding at a remote ranch.

After the attack leaves her brother seriously injured, Delaney helps Owen to nurse him and a wounded marshal back to health while danger looms ever closer. Despite the threat at their heels, romance sparks between Owen and Delaney as they fight for survival on their perilous wilderness trek toward the fort. Can they overcome the obstacles and find a future together?

Mary Connealy begins this series with a wild adventure of love, faith, courage, and resilience in the rugged wilderness of 1870s Colorado.

MY THOUGHTS.....

When the first sentence of a book explains that "a bullet whizzed past him, so close he felt the heat of it", you know that riveting adventure is ahead. So true, because the danger is real and it never seems to end! Two U.S. Marshals believe they can safely deliver a prisoner and two people in need of protection to Fort Russell within the week, but nature and the prisoner's outlaw family turn it into a challenge they may be unable to overcome!

Author Mary Connealy has a knack for creating unforgettable characters, page-turning drama, and heartwarming romance. Delaney and Owen's relationship is the main focus, but a large cast of characters and the realistic hardships of the Colorado wilderness produce additional interest and conflict.

I enjoyed Ambush of the Heart and look forward to the other books in the Rocky Mountain Marshals series. I recommend this book to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys that also have a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy, and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist. 

Her most recent book series is Wyoming Sunrise.  Other series by Mary Connealy are: The Lumber Baron's' Daughters, Brothers in Arms, The Brides of Hope Mountain, Garrison’s Law, High Sierra Sweethearts, Cimarron Legacy, Wild at Heart, Trouble in Texas, and Kincaid Bride for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing. along with many novellas. 

Mary is the bestselling author of 70 books and novellas and she has nearly a million books in print! 

Learn more at her Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Rocky Mountain Marshals

Ambush of the Heart

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Marrying the Matchmaker (A Shanahan Match, #4) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

As the middle child of the Shanahan family, Zaira does her best to keep the peace. She doesn't share her dream of becoming a published author with her family to spare herself their disapproval. When she's caught in a scandal involving the local matchmaker, Bellamy McKenna, she must put her storytelling ability to good use and feign a match with him to avoid wagging tongues and her parents' anger.

Feeling the growing pressure to marry as a well-known, yet single matchmaker to St. Louis's Irish community, Bellamy reluctantly agrees to a temporary match with Zaira. But even though the matchmakers in his family might be able to find love for others, they have a history of disastrous relationships for themselves. When secrets and danger force Zaira and Bellamy to work together, is it finally the matchmaker's turn to be lucky in love?

Hedlund delivers another captivating romance with sizzling chemistry in this romantic conclusion to her beloved matchmaking series.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Readers first met this Irish matchmaker when he helped Finola Shanahan find true love. Now, three books later, Bellamy McKenna's career may be at risk because he's still a single man. If he's so good at finding love for others, why isn't he married himself? Could it be that Bellamy believes that the McKenna family is cursed in relationships? Is he afraid to take a chance on marriage?

I've loved this series with matchmakers, arranged marriages, and unexpected romances, and I can't imagine a better way to end it! Secrets are revealed, including Bellamy's artistic talent and his long-time attraction for Zaira Shanahan. But what about Zaira's secret? She's become a published author, but she can't allow her family to know. Her editor wants her to add romance to her stories, but she doesn't have the experience to draw upon. Is a fake relationship with the Irish matchmaker the answer to her problems?

Marrying the Matchmaker is a tantalizing blend of humor, emotions, and historical details, but romance is certainly the main ingredient! Once again, Hedlund proves that romantic fiction can sizzle but still be considered clean. Bellamy and Zaira's chemistry is off the charts, but it's left up to us readers to fill in the details!

If you enjoy history that includes the Irish community and the cholera epidemic in the mid-1800s, this book is for you. If you appreciate page-turning sweetness woven with faith, grab a copy of Marrying the Matchmaker today! I highly recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian romance.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of more than 50 novels 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

Calling on the Matchmaker

Saved by the Matchmaker 

A Wager with the Matchmaker

Marrying the Matchmaker

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An Appearance of Impropriety by Jayna Breigh

ABOUT THE BOOK

As the youngest female judge in LA, Mahalia Jackson has her career goals carefully aligned. But when her mentor tells her she needs to break her shell of professionalism and show a little heart by volunteering for the Junior Jurors program, her plans begin to falter.

Attorney JD Cash heads up the Junior Jurors program, a project born out of his own troubled past. He leverages his position as an attorney to fulfill God's calling on his life, supporting the orphans and widows of society who have lost beloved husbands and fathers to TransNation's eighteen-wheeled time bombs roaming America's freeways.

Mahalia's rule—never date a lawyer—is a straitjacket that tightens when she presides over the case where JD serves as a young widow's attorney. But when an earthquake leaves JD and Mahalia in a vulnerable position, her resolve begins to waver and she finds herself opening up to the sad-eyed lawyer. But online, anonymous colleagues and adversaries attempt to destroy Mahalia’s reputation and career.

A legal drama threaded with romance, An Appearance of Impropriety will show readers that real love is worth the risk.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I was impressed by Jayna Breigh's debut novel last year, and this second book proves that she won't be considered a "one-hit wonder author"!  Breigh's knowledge and experience as a retired lawyer are evident in both the characters and plot of An Appearance of Impropriety. Mahalia Jackson is a career-driven judge who has no desire for a personal life until she encounters lawyer Jimmy Dean Cash.

I loved the legal jargon, compelling suspense, and intriguing characters in this story, but there was so much more! The thought-provoking plot often challenged me personally as I followed the spiritual and emotional growth of an "all by myself" judge and a "help somebody today" lawyer!

if you enjoy legal drama that's woven with faith and romance, grab a copy of An Appearance of Impropriety. You won't be disappointed!

I received a digital ARC from the author, and I also purchased my own print copy. I was under no obligation to write a review. 

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jayna Breigh is an award-winning author of romantic legal dramas. With over a decade of experience practicing “big city law” in Los Angeles, she brings authenticity to her stories, which feature lawyers, courtroom intrigue, senior citizens, and characters overcoming life's toughest challenges. Beyond writing, Jayna has shared her insights as a speaker at women’s retreats and a leader of Bible studies. She’s drawn to humor, inspiration, and painfully cute social media. The only personal drama she indulges in? British period pieces and competitive games of Wordfeud.  

Sign up for The Jayna Breigh Communique newsletter and receive several free surprises perfect for readers and writers.

Want to learn more? Visit her Website     

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The Hunted Heir

An Appearance of Impropriety

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Whiteout by Lynette Eason & Dani Pettrey

ABOUT THE BOOK

Brace yourself for double the suspense in these snowbound adventures as an avalanche forces two couples to face down their enemies in a ski resort shut off from the outside world.

In Buried in Shadows by Dani Pettrey, Cassandra Parker arrives at her best friend's destination wedding, praying her stalker hasn't tracked her to Colorado. Also part of the wedding party is Sheriff Joel Brunswick, the man she stunned by leaving at the altar to hide a dangerous truth. When an avalanche strands their ski group in an abandoned lodge, it becomes chillingly clear that Cassandra's stalker has followed her . . . and he's willing to kill to make her his.

In Snowbound Secrets by Lynette Eason, Dr. Maya Sullivan fully intends to escape her past and finish planning a retreat for military veterans at the ranch she's inherited. Unfortunately, her plans go sideways when an avalanche traps her in a Colorado ski resort. An unexpected reunion with her high school crush forces her to confront past wounds, but she soon realizes someone is targeting her, and their search for a shadowy enemy becomes a matter of life and death.

A gripping romantic suspense novella collection from bestselling authors Lynette Eason and Dani Pettrey featuring second-chance romance, trapped together forced proximity, military and law enforcement heroes, a small-town destination wedding, and snowbound survival at a Colorado ski resort.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

Dani Pettrey. Lynette Eason. I consider them both 'must-read' authors, so you can imagine my excitement in learning that they are featured in the same novella collection! Two novellas, each with different characters and plots, but connected by the same ski resort setting and lingering aftermaths of an avalanche. I was immediately aware of the avalanche perils, but it soon became obvious that there was even more danger from human forces. Who was behind the threats to both Cassie and Maya?

Pettrey's "Buried in Shadows" and Eason's "Snowbound Secrets" are both intense page-turners that give new meaning to the saying "tension so thick you can cut it with a knife". The constant jeopardy and persistent villains, woven together with inspiration, romance, and second chances, prove that Pettrey and Eason understand the concept of romantic Christian suspense. My only disappointment was that each story ended too soon!

I received this book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous awards including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll, and more. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network.

Lynette teaches at writing conferences all over the country and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), and Faith, Hope, and Love.

Learn more at her Website    

Facebook    Twitter     Instagram

Dani Pettrey was praised by New York Times best-selling author Dee Henderson as “a name to look for in romantic suspense,” She has sold more than half a million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. Her novels stand out for their “wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters” (Publishers Weekly), “gripping storyline[s],” (RT Book Reviews), and “sizzling undercurrent of romance” (USA Today). She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland, where she lives with her husband. Their two daughters, a son-in-law, and two adorable grandsons also reside in Maryland. 

For more information about her novels, visit her Website   Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

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Braving Fiery Waters (Time Sailors #2) by Sarah Hanks

ABOUT THE BOOK

Her husband died in a fire. Now she’s heading straight into one.

Marina Stone planned an ideal family vacation, perfect for reconnecting with her two teenagers after their father's death. But those plans go drastically away when she time sails to the White Cloud in the year 1849. Now she must face her greatest fears and complete a mystery mission before she can return to her life and children. But what if they no longer truly need her or want her?
A family vacation to South Haven, Michigan, was the last thing Aiden wanted for his summer. Having just been dumped by his girlfriend and ticket to his future, he’d rather numb his mind with adventure. But when he connects with Nevaeh, a girl whose beauty is only matched by her faith, he might find there’s no place he’d rather be. When his sister runs away, he must work with Nevaeh to help guide her home.

In this second book in the Time Sailors series, new friends join the old in a faith-filled time travel novel you won’t soon forget.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Braving Fiery Waters is described as fantasy and time-travel fiction, but anyone who has ever raised teenagers will also consider it as truth! Author Sarah Hanks perfectly captures the many moods of teenagers, including snarky comments and rebellious actions when Marina's teens complain about a family vacation, grieve for their deceased dad, and struggle with fear and concern when they are separated from their mother. Braving Fiery Waters is a realistic depiction of a troubled family but it's also an awesome adventure that alternates between past and present timelines. I loved the plot twists with the St. Louis fire and the cholera epidemic, and admired the creative way that Marina traveled through time. I had never heard of time sailing until now!

There are many light and fun moments in Braving Fiery Waters, but it is also profound in its message of faith. This book kept me fully engaged, and it hints that there will be more time sailing in the future. I recommend this series for both teen and adult readers.

I received a complimentary digital ARC. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my honest thoughts.

My rating: 4 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

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The Other Side of Goodbye (Welcome to Redemption, Alaska, #1) by Heidi McCahan

ABOUT THE BOOK

"Just because you lost Chase doesn't mean you have to shut me out... “

Sometimes the greatest love stories begin with the deepest losses.

When widow Tisha Binford arrives in Redemption, Alaska with her seven-year-old daughter Sadie, she's carrying more than just their belongings—she's carrying the weight of her late husband's memory and the hope of giving Sadie a connection to the father she barely knew. Working at her in-laws' café and perfecting her pie recipes, Tisha believes she's building a quiet, safe life in this small coastal town.

But Redemption has other plans.

Ethan McGuire, a recently retired Coast Guard pilot, has returned home with his own heavy burden—raising his eight-year-old son Brody alone after losing his wife to cancer. Determined to be the father Brody needs, Ethan thinks he has his future mapped out: help with the family resort, support his struggling son, and keep his heart carefully guarded.

When a school conflict brings their children together as unlikely friends, Tisha and Ethan find themselves drawn into each other's orbits. But moving forward means confronting painful questions: Can you honor the past while embracing the future? How do you teach children to love again when your own heart is still learning?

As Redemption faces an unexpected natural disaster, both families must discover that sometimes the other side of goodbye isn't an ending—it's the beginning of something beautiful, messy, and worth fighting for.

A heartwarming story about second chances, blended families, and the courage to love again, set against the stunning backdrop of small-town Alaska.

AMAZON     

MY THOUGHTS.....

What does the rest of your life look like when you lose the person you thought you'd be with forever? How can you begin to heal when you also need to guide your child through their journey of grief? Author Heidi McCahan addresses these heavy questions in The Other Side of Goodbye. Tisha Binford and Ethan McGuire are both dealing with painful loss, and McCahan doesn't sugarcoat their hurt and grief. Cautiously, she allows them to work through their overwhelming pain. The emotions are raw as she explores their reluctance to open their hearts to someone new. Slowly, they learn that God may have other plans.

If you believe in second chances, sweet romance, and God's perfect timing, take a trip to Redemption, Alaska. I recommend this poignant story to all who enjoy Christian romance.

I received a complimentary digital ARC from Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my opinions.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heidi McCahan began dreaming up stories as a little girl. Now she’s a bestselling author who writes uplifting romance novels set in small towns. A perfect day for Heidi includes a cup of good coffee, dark chocolate, and reading stories with happy endings. She’s originally from Alaska, but currently lives in North Carolina with her handsome husband, three amazing boys, and the world’s greatest Goldendoodle.

Learn more by visiting her Website

Follow Heidi on Facebook     Instagram     Goodreads

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Far Grander than Paradise by Barbara Blythe

ABOUT THE BOOK

Unconventional Zorinda Wemblish yearns for adventure and a life beyond her Norfolk, Virginia, home populated with narrow-minded people and a former suitor seeking to destroy her reputation.

Owner of one of the fastest clipper ships afloat, Captain Carris Trewellyn has two goals—make a profit and deliver his deceased brother’s children to their grandfather in the South Pacific as quickly as possible.

Zorinda’s and Carris’s worlds collide when his disobedient wards run away, seeking help from Zorinda, who is seeking passage to San Francisco. Once matters are sorted, Zorinda finds Captain Trewellyn intractable but aggravatingly attractive. Carris scorns attachment, although Zorinda is uncomfortably captivating. A mutual need to seek missing family members alters the course of their lives leading them to a South Pacific paradise. But the paradise hides deceit and betrayal, jeopardizing their faith—and their lives.

PURCHASE LINK

MY THOUGHTS.....

I am so impressed by Barbara Blythe's creativity! I love the names of her two main characters, the exotic setting of a clipper sailing to the South Pacific in the mid 1800s, and the many historical details woven into her exciting plot. Zorinda Wemblish desires adventure, but she's blissfully unaware of what is ahead. An overbearing ship captain, young twins longing for family, and illegal drug trade can only mean one thing: something's gotta give!

I especially enjoyed the vibes between Zorinda and Captain Carris Trewellyn. Would their deep animosity turn into deeper emotions of another kind? Could Zorinda show the Captain that his energetic niece and nephew only needed love and assurance?

This new-to-me author kept me "swiping the screen" to see what was coming next. I was totally engaged with the romance, adventure, and history, but there was also an inspiring theme of forgiveness and redemption.

I received a complimentary digital ARC. There was no obligation for a positive review. I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bitten by the writing bug in sixth grade, Barbara was further encouraged in middle and high school. Upon graduation from Old Dominion University, she worked in banking for 25 years, then became an administrative assistant with a local school system. Life events altered Barbara’s priorities—unfinished manuscripts ended up in a file cabinet for many years. In 2023, a year after retirement, she was contacted by a member of a local ACFW group. After joining, out came her unfinished manuscripts with hopes of bringing to life fascinating historical stories.

Barbara’s priority is to honor God and share her Christian faith with those who read her books. Her stories are faith-driven, entwining actual historical events with her characters who discover love in spite of all that threatens to drive them apart.

Previously published novels are: Fire Dragon’s Angel, Ransom for Many, and Dance of Life.

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On Living Stone: Salome's Story (Women of the Way, #3) by Heather Kaufman

ABOUT THE BOOK

Growing up by the Sea of Galilee, Salome is restless to find her place and purpose. Because of her wild temperament and quick tongue, some claim she'll never secure a future. When Adonai gifts her both a husband and sons, Salome is determined to silence her critics and prove she can be a good mother to her boys, James and John.

Salome's dreams for her sons are challenged, however, when they answer the call to follow Jesus of Nazareth. Is this man a dangerous false teacher like some who've come before him, or is he truly the hoped-for Messiah? While James and John are drawn deeper into Jesus's ministry, Salome must count the cost of discipleship and confront her fears, even as she discovers her own worth in this most unexpected rabbi.

Heather Kaufman delivers a powerful story of faith, redemption, and transforming love that will inspire courage and captivate fans of biblical fiction.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

How does she do it? How does this author create such captivating fiction while remaining true to the Bible scripture that prompted it? I knew of Salome because she is mentioned several times in the New Testament Gospels, but now, I feel like I truly KNOW her. I have been offered a glimpse of her life as a devoted wife, loving mother, and passionate follower of a young rabbi called Jesus. All because of the haunting words of author Heather Kaufman! 

Kaufman's extensive research allows her to imagine Salome's many emotions during her momentous life. Becoming Zebedee's wife, watching her babies grow into young men, and braving the separation when James and John leave to become disciples of Jesus. There's also the fear associated with the danger of following this special man! The passages as Salome battles her doubts and fears to find her own discipleship are especially riveting!

I challenge anyone to remain unaffected by the raw, realistic emotions shared throughout this book. The last pages of On Living Stone: Salome's Story are poignant reminders of what was sacrificed, what seemed lost, but what truly was gained! This book and the two other books in Kaufman's Women of the Way series exemplify biblical fiction at its best!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heather’s passion for storytelling started at an early age, from scribbled poetry at age six, to a full-length novel by sixteen. Over the years, her love of writing grew, eventually leading her to earn a BA in English from McKendree University and an MA in English, Writing Studies from the University of Missouri—St. Louis.

Heather is the author of multiple books and devotions and delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling.

She is married to Andrew and together they have three adorable children and one persnickety dog. When not reading, writing, editing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her family, enjoying yet another cup of coffee, or working on a home improvement  project. She and her family make their home in St. Louis, Missouri.

Learn more by visiting Heather's     Website      Facebook     Instagram

WOMEN OF THE WAY

Up from Dust: Martha's Story

Before the King: Joanna's Story

On Living Stone: Salome's Story

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When I'm With You (Home to Hearts Bend #1) by Rachel Hauck

ABOUT THE BOOK

She had her life mapped out perfectly—until love rewrote every plan.

Elizabeth Dorsey doesn't do detours. Fresh from MIT with honors and her sights set on Wharton's MBA program, she's got her next twenty years planned down to the minute. A quick summer stint at the family furniture business in sleepy Hearts Bend, Tennessee? Just a pit stop before conquering the Fortune 100.

But some destinations are worth changing course for.

Enter Ryder Donovan—the wildlife officer who once filled her teenage summers with friendship and innocent longing. Now he's all grown up, devastatingly handsome, and stirring feelings that threaten to derail everything Elizabeth thought she wanted. When a mysterious fire brings them together and false accusations tear them apart, Elizabeth must choose between the future she's always planned and the love she never saw coming.

In Hearts Bend, Tennessee, some fires burn hotter than others...

As Elizabeth uncovers fraud that could destroy Ryder's career, their chemistry ignites into something neither can ignore. But with her acceptance to Wharton finally in hand and Ryder facing a job offer in Colorado, can two people heading in opposite directions find their way to the same future?

Sometimes the biggest risk isn't following your dreams—it's having the courage to change them.

"A swoon-worthy romance that perfectly captures the magic of small-town love and second chances. Elizabeth and Ryder's story will have you believing in happily ever after all over again." Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling author

Perfect for fans Debbie Macomber • Susan Mallery • RaeAnne Thayne

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

There's so much to love about this book, including wonderful characters, a delightful small-town setting, and swoon-worthy romance! Elizabeth Dorsey renews her friendship with Ryder Donovan during her summer return to Hearts Bend, and it doesn't take long for old feelings to resurface. They seem perfect for each other, but she is too focused on her career to accept it. I wanted to shake Elizabeth because even though she was loved and supported by a loving family and an awesome man, she was oblivious to what she was throwing away!

It's been a while since I've read a Rachel Hauck book, and this book reminds me of what I've missed. When I'm With You is a poignant story with strong family devotion. misguided goals, and a mystery surrounding Ryder. I recommend When I'm With You to all who enjoy heartwarming second-chance romance.

I received a complimentary eBook from Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times, USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Rachel Hauck writes from sunny central Florida. A RITA finalist and winner of Romantic Times Inspirational Novel of the Year, and Career Achievement Award, she writes vivid characters dealing with real life issues. Readers have fallen in love with the quaint and loveable small town of Hearts Bend, TN introduced in the NYT bestselling The Wedding Dress which launched her Wedding Collection novels. Visit her at www.rachelhauck.com.

FACEBOOK   INSTAGRAM   TWITTER

RETURN TO HEART'S BEND

When I'm With You

Anyone But You (**Previously published in 2022 as One Fine Day)

What If I Stay (**Previously published in 2022 as You'll Be Mine)

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Titus and the Christian Coin by Dennis Conrad with Derinda Babcock: Review & Book Tour

 

Book Details:

Book Title:  Titus and the Christian Coin: An Adventure of Faith and Freedom by Dennis Conrad 
Category:  Teen and Young Adult Fiction (Ages 12-18),  132 pages
Genre:  Christian Teen and Young Adult Ancient Historical Fiction
Publisher:  Write4Christ Publishing
Release date:   November 3, 2025
Format available for review:  print-softback (USA only), ebook (EPUB), audiobook (audible-download)
Tour dates: Jan 6 to Feb 2, 2025
Content Rating:  G. This Christian book is for teens and young adult.

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Real. Raw. Riveting. A true story of redemption.

​Dennis does an excellent job stirring up the heart and imagination of his reader. A must read for all Christians, both young and old. — Derek Singer, Pastor, Canyon Lake Community Church, Canyon Lake, California

Dennis Conrad crafts an entertaining and enduring tale in Titus and the Christian Coin. He does not sidestep the difficult, real-life questions that Christians still ask today, but rather masterfully interweaves the context of an ancient setting with relatable and timeless struggles. A great read for anyone, especially in the young adult genre. — David Finnern, award-winning novelist/journalist and author of the Lost Tales and Sunken Mysteries series.

Titus and the Christian Coin, by Dennis Conrad is a wonderful story of faith and God’s sovereignty. The story is gripping and inspiring while telling the story of Christian history during the time of Constantine. It also shows the importance of hope, hard work, and forgiveness. This book should be on every middle young adult’s reading list. — Terrie Hellard-Brown, award-winning author and podcaster

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Book Description:

​When Titus refuses to deny his Christian faith, Roman persecution destroys his family and condemns him to a brutal life in the copper mines of northern Italy.

​Underground, surrounded by despair and danger, he must choose between hatred and hope, revenge and redemption.

From a mine collapse to an emperor’s audience hall, Titus’s journey spans the Roman Empire during Constantine’s transformative reign. Alongside Tribune Felix, he discovers that true freedom comes through forgiveness, not force. Authentic historical details bring ancient Rome to life while timeless themes of faith, friendship, and courage inspire modern readers.

This gripping adventure combines accurate historical research with compelling storytelling. Readers will witness early Christian persecution, experience Roman culture, and walk through Constantine’s palace while following Titus’s transformation from broken slave to Roman citizen.

An unforgettable tale where archaeological accuracy meets heart-pounding adventure, proving that faith can triumph over the darkest circumstances and that God’s love never abandons His people.

​Buy the Book
Amazon ~ Audible
add to goodreads

MY THOUGHTS.....

Titus and the Christian Coin adds another feather to Dennis Conrad's writing cap! I've enjoyed his books for younger children, but this book has been written for young adult/teen readers. Titus and the Christian Coin is the touching story of a young boy living in Rome during the Great Persecution. Titus endures pain working in the copper mines after losing his parents but suffering and grief aren't the primary focus. Titus's courage, faith, and determination as he endures these hardships become a testament to the power of faith and trust.

This book is rich in historical details surrounding the Roman Empire, the Great Persecution, and the reign of Constantine, the first Christian emperor of Rome, but it's more than just a history lesson. It has engaging characters and a thrilling plot filled with danger, adventure, and a reminder that God strengthens us when we are at our weakest point. I recommend Titus and the Christian Coin to all who enjoy clean historical fiction, and especially to young readers who may need encouragement and motivation!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Guest Post

I was recently asked, “Why did you write Titus and the Christian Coin?” 

My answer was simple. “I wanted to write a story that I would have wanted to read when I was young.” 

As a child, I struggled as a slow reader for years. I finally got glasses in the fifth grade, and that is when everything changed. I started reading stories that put me in the middle of the action. I liked adventure and survival-against-all-odds types of stories. 

As an author, I wanted to allow readers to experience what Christian persecution was like in 312 A.D. without the gore. I wanted to reinforce how faith, friendship, and courage influenced Titus as he met challenge after challenge.  

If you know a person struggling with reading, I always say, “Be wise, check their eyes.” One woman I know did not learn she needed glasses until she was an adult. 

Blessings to you and yours,

Dennis Conrad

Meet the Authors:

Dennis Conrad began writing stories for children in 2007. Over the years, he and his wife, Diane, have enterained their 11 nieces and nephews. He has taught high school through univeristy and around the world. He's helped many to see God in their lives.
As a former coin collector of fifty years, Dennis combines his love of Jesus, the Bible, children’s literature, and writing stories about coins.
He is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators and a Fellow of the National Writing Project.
connect with the authors: website ~ facebook ~ goodreads

Derinda Babcock is an author and graphic designer. She lives in southwestern Colorado near the base of the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. In her previous career as an English as a Second Language teacher, she worked with students of all ages and many different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The richness of this experience lends flavor and voice to the stories she writes.
​connect with author: website ~ facebook ~ linkedin ~ goodreads

Enter the Giveaway:

TITUS AND THE EMPERORS COIN Series Book Tour Giveaway

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