About Me I am a retired librarian and I now support books and authors through my reviews.

I have always loved to read and I was able to share that love through my work as a public librarian for 22 1/2 years. I now promote literacy by reading, and then writing reviews. I love to support authors by sharing my reviews with others!

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Beach House Rescue by Hope Toler Dougherty

Beach House Rescue: A Small Town Beach Read with Heart and Hope
ABOUT THE BOOK

Two strangers. One beach house. Zero plans to share it.

When Tessa Trask arrives at a coastal beach house for a quiet summer, the last thing she expects is to wake up to an intruder—and have to defend herself the best way she can. But Wyatt Henry isn’t a burglar. He’s just as surprised to find her there…and just as determined to stay.

With no proof of who belongs, Tessa and Wyatt are forced into an uneasy roommate arrangement. She’s a free-spirited artist searching for direction. He’s a disciplined former Army captain who prefers order over chaos. Keeping their distance should be simple—until a surprise visitor arrives and complicates their fragile truce.

Sun-soaked days and shared responsibilities soften their differences, and Tessa looks to a future shaped by faith instead of fear. But Wyatt’s past has taught him that trusting the wrong person comes at a cost he’s not willing to pay again.

As the lines between them blur, both must decide if they’re willing to cling to what feels safe—or trust God with what comes next.

Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Lisa Carter, and Becky Wade, Beach House Rescue is a clean Christian romance full of warmth, faith, and happily-ever-after hope.







MY THOUGHTS.....

"I don't think she's armed. She's asleep on my couch."

Talk about a memorable first meeting! Tessa Trask believes Wyatt Henry is a burglar who's invaded the beach house she's living in for the summer, and he's certain that she's a squatter asleep on his couch! I laughed out loud during these opening scenes, and It didn't take long for this mix-up to turn into an ongoing battle to see who could outlast the other! Tessa and Wyatt were both determined to spend their summer in this beach house!

Author Hope Toler Dougherty's engaging story shows that a loving, supportive family unit isn't always dependent on blood ties. Perseverance, a little humor, and a lot of grace are definitely the keys, but Beach House Rescue has so much more! A beautiful setting, relatable characters, and intriguing circumstances are mixed with a generous amount of faith and forgiveness, flavored with sweet romance, and allowed to simmer until boiling. The result? A swoony, clean, contemporary beach read!

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master’s degree in English and taught at East Carolina University and York Technical College. Her early novels are Irish Encounter, Mars…With Venus Rising, and Rescued Hearts. Her Forever series includes Forever Music, Forever Home, “A Hatteras Surprise," featured in Candy Cane Wishes and Saltwater Dreams, and Forever Free.
She and her husband Kevin delight in visits with their two daughters and twin sons. 

Want to learn more? Visit her Website or connect with her social media accounts. 

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Sunday, July 5, 2026

1 & 2 Timothy, Titus & Philemon: Letters to Leaders--a 10-Week Bible Study on Sound Doctrine and Godly Behavior by Tara-Leigh Cobble

ABOUT THE BOOK

The team behind the bestselling The Bible Recap takes your study of God's Word to the next level. Continuing with the books of 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon, The Bible Recap Knowing God Series dives deep into the transformative truths found in Scripture.

Perfect for small groups or individual study, this comprehensive, 10-week Bible study explains and connects the story of Scripture in the books of 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Through daily readings, passage-by-passage teaching, thought-provoking questions, weekly challenges, Scripture memorization, and personal study segments, you will

· learn how to dig deep into God's Word
· discover the character of God revealed through the early church
· comprehend the transformational truths of godly humility and love
· apply these truths to your life



MY THOUGHTS.....

This new bible study has given me a deeper insight into the apostle Paul's letters to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. I was familiar with his special relationship with Timothy but I'm now learning so much about Paul's efforts to teach Christian doctrine to Titus, Philemon, and Timothy, his "true child in the faith". This 10-week study from Tara Leigh-Cobble is an engaging and stimulating journey filled with Scripture, questions, and points to ponder. I was especially pleased that memorizing a weekly Bible verse is stressed and additional online resources are provided!

Understanding church doctrine and displaying godly behavior is essential to both new believers and seasoned Christians. I am using this thought-provoking resource for my worship time, but it would also be perfect for a group Bible Study.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tara-Leigh Cobble spends her days helping people read, understand, and love the Bible! Those things include: hosting a daily podcast called The Bible Recap, leading D-Group International (an international network of Bible studies), speaking to audiences about God and His Word, writing books, leading trips to Israel, and hosting a daily radio show called The God Shot. 

She loves adventure, dabbling in flying trapeze, and thinking every meal tastes better when eaten outside. She lives alone in Dallas, Texas.

Learn more about Tara-Leigh Cobble at her Website
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The Bible Recap Knowing God Series

1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, & Philemon: Letters to Leaders


View all my reviews


Friday, July 3, 2026

Freed by the Frontier by Sherry Shindelar, Denise Farnsworth, & Susan F. Craft

Freed by the Frontier
ABOUT THE BOOK

Three remarkable women find themselves caught between two worlds on the American frontier. A captive of the Comanche must choose between escaping to white society or her growing feelings for a rising war chief in 1850s Texas. A Georgia judge’s daughter flees an unwanted betrothal during the War of 1812, only to be captured by Creek warriors but protected by a mysterious brave. And in 1754, an English lady traveling the Great Wagon Road to become a music teacher discovers her carefully planned future may not survive her attraction to a protective frontiersman.

From quaint civilized towns to treacherous mountain passes and wilderness villages, three couples navigate cultural divisions, overcome past wounds, and face deadly dangers to discover that love knows no boundaries. But as war clouds gather and ancient tribal alliances shift, will their newfound relationships survive the coming storm? Or will the clash of worlds tear them apart?

Three unforgettable romances prove that God's greatest blessings often come disguised as our greatest challenges, and that true love can bridge any divide.



MY THOUGHTS.....

This novella collection includes Wichita Path Serenade by Sherry Shindelar; Ofuskee Trail Surrender by Denise Farnsworth; and Wagon Road Serenade by Susan F. Craft. I already knew Denise Weimer Farnsworth's talent in writing historical fiction, but Sherry Shindelar's contribution to this novella collection has earned her a new fan! As I read the riveting story of a young woman captured by Comanche Indians, I was torn between dismay for her captivity, admiration for her bravery, and pity that she might have to forsake the love of a lifetime. How was it even possible for a white woman in 1850s Texas to experience such deep feelings for a visiting war chief? Would she dare to cross a line that was considered taboo at that time?

Shindelar's story, Wichita Path Sacrifice, was emotional, entertaining, and educational. The attraction between Eyes Blue Sky and Dancing Eagle appeared hopeless, but the author convinced me that blessings are often disguised. This was a wonderful novella to read during the celebration of our 250th birthday as a nation!

I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher. This review is for the novella, Wichita Path Sacrifice. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR  

Originally from Tennessee, Sherry Shindelar loves to take her readers into the past. A romantic at heart, she is an avid student of the Civil War and the Old West. When she is not busy writing, she is an English professor working to pass on her love of writing to her students. Sherry is an award-winning writer: 2023 Genesis finalist, Maggie finalist, and Crown finalist. She currently resides in Minnesota with her husband of thirty-nine years.

Learn more by visiting Sherry's Website

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Wednesday, July 1, 2026

The Amish Rancher's Return by Amy Lillard

The Amish Rancher's Return
ABOUT THE BOOK

His homecoming could change everything
For a widow and two little girls…


Called back home to Millers Creek after years away, Isaiah Peight needs to help care for his ill father, sell his parents’ store—and avoid Priscilla Raber. Five years ago, he and Priscilla were betrothed, but she broke his heart and married someone else while he went on rumspringa. Now widowed, she works at Creekside Sundries to support her toddler twins. And she’s not happy about the sale. Seeing Isaiah again stirs up lots of memories, especially when he bonds with her precious girls. Can they ever leave the past behind and forge a new future together?






MY THOUGHTS.....

His father's illness has drawn him back to Miller's Creek, but it won't be easy for Isaiah Peight! The young woman he once planned to marry is there, along with her two little girls, and Isaiah doesn't want, or need. a reminder of what was or might have been!

Five years of misunderstandings, miscommunication, and hurt plague the unexpected reunion of Priscilla Raber and Isaiah Peight, as author Amy Lillard poignantly relates their struggle to remain indifferent to each other. Old feelings resurface, along with Isaiah's conflicted emotions about Priscilla's daughters. These adorable twin girls could have been his!

I loved the romance, the return to Miller's Creek, and the strong faith message woven into Lillard's compelling plot. Lillard's tagline is 'Sweet as apple pie', and I've been told that a truly sweet apple pie is a balance of tart fruit and warm spices. Well, this certainly describes this realistic book! The Amish Rancher's Return is an engaging tale of hope, forgiveness, and second chances. I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish Christian fiction.

I accepted a complimentary digital ARC from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars






ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Lillard loves nothing more than a good book. Except for her family…and maybe homemade tacos…and nail polish. But reading and writing are definitely way up on the list.

Born and bred in Mississippi, Amy is a transplanted Southern Belle who now lives in Oklahoma with her deputy husband, their genius son, and three spoiled cats. ^..^

When she’s not creating happy endings, she has a variety of hobbies, but her favorite is whatever gets her out of housework.

Amy is an award-winning author with more than forty novels and novellas in print. She loves to hear from readers. 

Learn more by checking Amy's Website     

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The Amish Rancher's Return



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Sunday, June 28, 2026

An Interview with Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach, co-author of The Melody of Love

Wanda E. Brunstetter has a new book releasing July 1, 2026. It promises to be the kind of heartwarming story we've come to expect but it also touches on a subject we don't usually see in Amish fiction. The Melody of Love is the unique story of an Amish widow who's raising a son with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

Fans of Amish fiction are very familiar with New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter, but this book has an added author. Do you recognize the name Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach? She is Wanda's daughter and the co-author of The Melody of Love! 

Want to know more about Lorine? She has graciously provided answers to questions submitted by members of her mother's Facebook group, Wanda's Clipitty Clop Club. 

Sit back and learn more about Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach!


Question 1

Was your mom an inspiration to follow in writing Amish stories? Do you both give each other ideas sometimes on a story?

My mom was a definite inspiration to me in writing Amish stories. We have spent quite a bit of time discussing storyline ideas over the years.

Question 2

Which one of you came up with the storyline for this book?

I think, initially, it was me, but together, we filled in the details to make this a heartwarming and interesting storyline.

Question 3

What is the most memorable part of writing a book together?

I feel the most memorable part of writing a book together was the almost daily phone calls we shared. Since I live several hours from my mom, we don’t get to spend much time together. I’m a teacher, which keeps me busy during the school year and of course my mom is always busy writing. This gave us many opportunities to catch up on each other’s lives.

Question 4

When you write a book together, are you actually together or do you email back and forth?

The majority of this book was written while we were apart. We called each other often and emailed several times a day.

 Question 5

What inspired you to include a character in the story that is on the autism spectrum?

I’m a music teacher and have had many students on the spectrum, including one of my own. While visiting Amish friends, we asked if they have seen Autism in children in their community and they told us that yes, they have.

Question 6

How do you determine who writes which part?

When we first begin, we write character sketches and a timeline, then we discuss which characters we’d like to write. However, the way it worked out, we both wrote the other’s character in a scene or two. Thankfully, our writing styles are so similar, it wasn’t a problem. In fact, during the final edits, we couldn’t even tell.

Question 7

What is the best advice Wanda has given you?

My mom has given me so much great advice over the years and not just writing advice. The one piece of advice that works in writing AND life is to remember Who gives me strength. From a very young age, both of my parents taught me to trust the Lord, and when things get hard, lean even closer to Him.

Question 8

Will you do more books together in the future?

I am hopeful that we will.

Question 9

What made go into writing books? Is it something you always knew you wanted to do?

My mom suggested the idea to me about ten years ago, but I was very busy teaching k-12 music and managing a dorm for exchange students as well as entering into the season of grandchildren. When I left my position and started teaching Elementary music, I knew I was finally ready. Life was suddenly a less hectic. At least for a short while.

Question 10

Do you write books by yourself also or do you only collaborate with other authors? Who else have you written with?

Although this is my first full length novel, I wrote a short story called A Sarasota Sunset, which can be found in the Novella collection called Sisters by the Sea.

Question 11

What inspired you to write about the Amish?

While visiting my dad’s family in Pennsylvania, I was introduced to the Amish way of life at a young age. I shared my mom’s fascination with the culture of this group of people in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Later in life, I was able to visit a few other communities in Indiana and Ohio and get to know some of my parents’ Amish friends. They are such wonderful people with a deep love for the Lord.

Question 12

Have you always written stories or at what age did you begin?

As a child, I struggled with reading and writing. It wasn’t until I was in college, with school-aged children of my own, that I realized I enjoyed it. I was 53 when I wrote A Sarasota Sunset for our Novella, Sisters by the Sea. I believe that’s a nice reminder that we are never too old to start something new.

Question 13

When writing a book together with someone, is there a lot to compromise when it comes to the story line or do you have an outline first before writing and comparing with the other author you are writing with?

We definitely create an outline first, but I felt like our ideas and thoughts about our characters were nicely aligned.

Question 14

In writing with your mom, do you ever want her storyline to be different than the way she wrote it? Have you ever asked her to change it?

I believe that the pre-planning we do really prevents this from happening. I trust her completely, so if her character changed at all from the initial character sketch, I know there’d be a good reason for the change, and she’d communicate that with me.

Question 15

What goes into a collaboration of a book? (Example: Ideas, research, tying it together, etc.)

Once we have a summary, we create the character sketches and outline, then we start writing. We are researching as we write.

Question 16

In reading a lot of Amish books, I hardly come across any with stuff such as autism, Down syndrome, fibromyalgia and etc. Do the Amish have many issues with things like this?

It has been our experience that yes, the Amish deal with a lot of things that the rest of the world deals with.

Question 17

Are Amish people with autism received by the Amish community the same way Amish people with Down Syndrome are?

Absolutely. Even though many don’t understand very much about autism, they love and accept their special needs children.

Question 18

What is your inspiration to writing?

Even though I struggled with reading as a child, I always enjoyed a good story. When I finally caught up to the rest of my peers in reading in upper elementary, my favorite stories were stories of faith and family. I saw how God is there in the good times, but also during the hard times and that is where my inspiration comes from.

Question 19

Who comes up with the idea in the first place? Who writes the beginning or the end? How do you decide that?

Oftentimes, we both will come up with a similar idea at the same time. For our Novella, each of us wrote our own story. But for The Melody of Love, I started it because my mom was finishing another book. As we wrote, we assigned scenes and chapters so we could share the work.

Question 20

When will you and Wanda come to Virginia for a book signing? What is your favorite book you have written?

At the moment, we don’t have any plans for book signings, except locally. If the Lord opens doors to that, we’d be on board. I really enjoyed writing A Sarasota Sunset, but I equally enjoyed The Melody of Love.


Thanks to Lorine and to Angie Brillhart, the admin of Wanda's Clipitty Clop Club, for their help in facilitating this interview!





Learn more about THE MELODY OF LOVE.




Friday, June 12, 2026

The Targeted (Secrets to Keep #3) by Cara C. Putman

The Targeted (Secrets to Keep #3)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Can she protect her gym students before her past catches up?


When Chloe Ainsworth's older sister reappears after fourteen years, she brings with her the news that Chloe's abuser is back in town. Chloe is a coach at her childhood gym and fiercely protective of her young gymnasts. She won't allow them to suffer the way she did, but she's desperate for an ally—one who can help her make her case.


Law student Dare Shepherd works at the local legal clinic, where he meets Chloe and hears her out. He believes her case but can't get the clinic director on board. As he learns more about her story, he finds himself bound by a deepening personal care for Chloe.


They band together in search of answers, and suddenly the stakes skyrocket. It’s clear they're onto something, but will they be able to find the answers before it's too late?


AMAZON     


MY THOUGHTS.....

The 'Secrets to Keep' series has been exceptional, but this third book was especially riveting! Multi-faceted characters, a relevant subject, and a compelling plot kept me glued to the pages of The Targeted. Secrets, fear, and finally, Chloe's determination to protect others had me experiencing all of the feels, including disgust, dismay, and frustration. There was, however, hope, faith, and satisfaction as truth and justice were fiercely pursued!

I can always count on being entertained AND challenged by author Cara Putman. The Targeted illustrates the worst and best of mankind as it explores the loss of trust and innocence, but the author's personal knowledge of the legal system powerfully intensifies the drama! I recommend this top-notch thriller to all who enjoy Christian suspense,

I received a complimentary ARC from the author, Kregel Publications, and NetGalley, 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     



Secrets to Keep

The Targeted


Tuesday, June 9, 2026

The Girl from Tomorrow's Town (Enduring Hope #5) by Naomi Dawn Musch

The Girl from Tomorrow's Town (Enduring Hope #5)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Past and Present Collide on the Railway
 
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.




MY THOUGHTS.....

Author Naomi Musch truly understands the formula for great historical fiction. Find a little-known subject or event, research it extensively, and then weave a fascinating fictional story around those facts. This is a perfect description of The Girl from Tomorrow's Town, the newest book in the Enduring Hope series. I wasn't familiar with the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus or the train crash that occurred one fateful night in 1918, near Hammond, Indiana. Many circus performers died, many more were seriously injured, and most of their true identities are unknown to this day.


Endearing characters, vivid descriptions, and a captivating look at circus life make this a compelling story! Lily Mae Dodge was sent west on the Orphan Train, but she's now heading back east to search for her mother. This search introduces her to Francis Bassett and the performers of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus and eventually leads to her involvement in the tragic train crash. I felt the terror, heard the sounds, and experienced the shock during the crash, along with Lily Mae's desperation when she couldn't find Francis. What follows is a story of faith, hope, and the search for 'happily-ever-after'. I highly recommend The Girl from Tomorrow's Town 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. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Naomi Musch is an award-winning author who writes from a deer farm in the pristine north woods of Wisconsin, where she and  her husband Jeff live as epically as God allows near the families of their five adult children. When not in the physical act of writing or spending time loving on her passel of grandchildren, she can be found plotting stories as she roams around the farm, snacks out of the garden, and relaxes in her vintage camper. Naomi is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Wisconsin Writers’ Association, and the Lake Superior Writers.

She loves engaging with others. You can connect with her on her  Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     Pinterest




Friday, June 5, 2026

Find Me in the Lyrics (Jonathon Island / Season 2 Book 4) by Christina Miller

Find Me in the Lyrics (Jonathon Island | Season 2 Book 4)
ABOUT THE BOOK

She tried to find her own voice and failed. He buried his melody in grief. Together, they might write the lyrics to a whole new life.

A country star who's never been "just Ariel." A guitarist who traded his music for a hotel ledger. One summer that changes everything.

Ariel Sullivan has sold out arenas, won awards, and built a career most artists only dream of—but always as half of "Miss Dahlia and Ariel." When she secretly records a solo album and it's rejected, she's left questioning everything. A month on the tiny Michigan island where she was born might give her space to figure out who she is without the spotlight.

She didn't expect to find answers in a crumbling hotel. Or in him.

Caleb Kennedy should be on tour with his Christian rock band, not dealing with burst pipes, displaced guests, and a grandfather who won't let him into the locked parlor wing. But family duty called, and Caleb answered—even if it meant burying his music along with his grief.

When Ariel walks through his doors, she's an inconvenience. When she offers to help save the inn in exchange for his help reimagining her band, she becomes something more a reason to pick up his guitar again.

Late nights at the antique piano. Jazz duets in a forbidden room. A harmony that feels like it was always meant to be. But with careers pulling them in different directions and secrets surfacing from both their pasts, they'll have to Is love worth the risk of starting over?

A heartwarming musician romance about finding your voice, healing old wounds, and discovering that the best love songs are written by two hearts in perfect harmony. Ideal for fans of Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, and Nashville.







MY THOUGHTS.....

Jonathon Island. I fall more in love with it each time I visit, and this book is no exception. Wonderful characters and two legacies are at the center of a heartwarming plot that's bursting with the love of music and the power it holds over all of us! Music, no matter the genre, is capable of uniting people, and Find Me in the Lyrics explores this premise!

Dahlia Denton, her great-niece Ariel Sullivan, Caleb Kennedy and his Uncle Augo are four intriguing characters introduced in this touching story. Caleb is in a quandary because of a family legacy. Should he give up his dreams of a musical career so that his family's historical Island House Inn can continue to prosper? Ariel's legacy is wrapped around her successful duo act with her Aunt Dahlia. Country music has been good to her, but she really wants to try it on her own. Is she talented enough to succeed as a solo artist?

Author Christina Miller provides a realistic look at both the joys and heartaches that musicians experience as they share their musical talents with others.  Find Me in the Lyrics is a sweet romance filled with Ariel's swoony first kiss, a surprising marriage proposal, thought-provoking revelations, and the inspiring faith always evident on Jonathon Island. I recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Editor and author Christina Miller’s idea of a perfect day involves a white-sand beach, a stack of books, and a glass of sweet tea. Ten years ago, she decided to leave her job as an RN and become a writer and editor so she could read for a living—and sometimes even work on the beach.

Christina is a Bethany Global University graduate, pastor’s wife, worship leader, and author for Love Inspired, the Christian imprint of Harlequin. When she doesn’t have her nose in a book or her toes in the sand, you might catch her visiting an antebellum mansion, exploring a museum, or teaching at a women’s conference. Christina lives on her family farm with her husband of thirty years.

Learn more by visiting Christina's Website

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JONATHON ISLAND SEASON TWO
Find Me in the Lyrics by Christina Miller

Wednesday, June 3, 2026

The Fearless Cowboy (Noble Ranch, #3) by Jody Hedlund

The Fearless Cowboy (Noble Ranch Book 3)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Hyacinth Berkley is tired of living in the shadow of her sister’s beautiful marriage and is ready to start a life of her own. In searching for a husband, Hyacinth wants a man who is different from her father—someone who is independent and doesn’t need her the way her father needed their mother.

Noble Ranch foreman Beckett Thorpe has to get married by his thirtieth birthday in order to inherit his family’s ranch in Texas. With the clock ticking, he proposes a marriage of convenience to Hyacinth. Since the two of them have bickered from the day they met, he doesn’t expect her to accept his offer and is secretly pleased when she does.

After a quick wedding, they journey to Texas so he can prove he’s married and claim his inheritance. Once there, they learn Beckett isn’t so independent and needs Hyacinth more than they’d realized. As tensions escalate, can they overcome their fears from the past and the dangers of the present to find a way to be together? Or will they finally agree on one thing—that their marriage was a big mistake?


The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.






MY THOUGHTS.....

Hyacinth Berkley needed a home, and Beckett Thorpe's claim to an inheritance required a wife. Maybe they could solve their problems by marrying each other. Should it matter that they really didn't like each other?

The Fearless Cowboy is bursting with witty banter, constant bickering, and amazing romantic chemistry. I shouldn't be surprised by the latter because Jody Hedlund is known for writing sizzling, BUT CLEAN, closed-door romance novels! I loved the swoony kisses and the strong physical connection, but I was fully captivated by their deepening emotional bond. Marrying a much older man was Hyacinth's initial plan to achieve independence; Beckett's only concern was to gain his inheritance. Why couldn't they see that the ever-increasing tension between them was caused by something other than dislike?

Enemies-to-more, a marriage of convenience, and a western adventure set in the 1880s. What more could a historical romance fan ask for? The Fearless Cowboy is a delightful addition to Hedlund's Noble Ranch series!

I received a complimentary ARC. 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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NOBLE RANCH

The Fearless Cowboy

View all my reviews

Monday, June 1, 2026

Silent Menace (The Secrets of Kincaid #3) by Angela Carlisle

Silent Menace (The Secrets of Kincaid #3)ABOUT THE BOOK

A vulnerable target. A mysterious discrepancy. An unforeseen love.

After the exposure of her deceased husband's criminal activity, CPA Hailey Nieland struggles to move on with life as a single mother raising a hearing-impaired toddler in a hostile small town. When she gains a major client, she hopes the extra income will be just what they need . . . until she begins finding anomalies in the accounts. 

No one should trust their life to a bodyguard who can't protect himself, much less his client. At least, that's what Peter Lewis believes after his failed mission. But leaving his former career behind is much harder than he expected--especially when someone begins targeting an accountant who works in the office building he's now responsible for. As threats against her escalate, Peter and Hailey must work together to overcome their fears and expose a complex cover-up before she becomes the next victim. 

Parable bestselling author Angela Carlisle delivers edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense featuring a single mother, a bodyguard seeking redemption, financial intrigue, and a small-town setting for readers who enjoy high stakes and nonstop action.






MY THOUGHTS.....

"Something wasn't right." Discrepancies in financial records were troubling CPA Hailey Nieland, but she didn't know the troubles that lay ahead!

I loved this book! Hailey is a single mother determined to provide for her hearing-impaired little girl, and she's going to need help before someone silences her forever. Enter a swoony, English bodyguard willing to protect her.  My reaction to their friendship that slowly evolves into something more? "Be still, my heart!" Another plus is the small-town setting. Kincaid is loosely based on a small city near Carlisle's home in northern Kentucky, and my own home is about 65 miles away!

Author Angela Carlisle spins a chilling life-or-death story in this third book of The Secrets of Kincaid series. There is heart-pounding danger, heart-melting romance, and heartwarming faith. I recommend this captivating book to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Angela Carlisle resides in the hills of northern Kentucky and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and The Christian PEN. Angela is an editor by day and prefers to spend her free time reading, baking, and drinking ridiculous quantities of hot tea. Her unpublished works have won awards in ACFW's Genesis and First Impressions contests and placed in the Daphne du Maurier contest. Each book in her debut series, The Secrets of Kincaid, is a Parable Group bestseller, and her flash fiction pieces—including the prize-winning “Mansion Murderer”—have appeared in Splickety and Spark Magazines. She is represented by Wendy Lawton of Books and Such Literary Agency.


Learn more by visiting Angela's Website

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THE SECRETS OF KINCAID

Shadowed Witness