A Heart on Consignment (The Heart of the Amish, #12) by Mindy Steele

ABOUT THE BOOK

Despite knowing her parents are getting desperate for their only child to marry and give them grandchildren, Salina Stoltzfus is weary of seeking the perfect match. Every time she thinks she has found “the one,” he marries another.
 
The best way to forget you are the last woman any man in Havenlee, Indiana, wants to hitch his buggy too is to find something passionate to focus on. When the area is overrun with donations after a tragic storm, Salina suggests opening a consignment shop. The deacon supports the idea and offers his visiting nephew to help set things up.
 
After the embarrassment of having his fiancée call off their wedding, Seth Weaver takes his mother’s advice to leave Kentucky to stay with his uncle for a while. Unfortunately, Seth knows nothing about building furniture in his uncle’s factory, which is the only reason he agrees to help ready the consignment shop next door—not because of the little chatterbox working inside.
 
When Salina’s parents are caught meddling in her love life, she comes up with a crazy idea that might gain her some time and space. Could it be the road to happiness is paved with good intentions and epic fails—until we cross paths when the one made especially for us?
 

AMAZON     

MY THOUGHTS.....

Poor Salina! She considers herself a wallflower who will probably never marry, but her parents want their only child married...soon! It doesn't seem to matter that Salina wants love to come before marriage. If only she could find a husband who would also be her true and lasting love!

I'm always amazed by this author's ability to create characters who are so realistically endearing. Salina sometimes talks too much, and this often happens when she's around a young Amish newcomer in Havenlee. Is it possible that this brokenhearted visitor will recognize the true worth of a sweet, talkative "wallflower"?

I enjoyed watching Salina and Seth fake a romance to pacify Salina's family and friends, and I loved Seth's willingness to be a part of this pretend relationship. There's also a natural disaster that showcases the true Amish values we all admire. When tragedy strikes, they are the first to step up to help!

A Heart on Consignment has well-defined characters, intriguing plot developments, and inspiring faith. I recommend it to all who enjoy friendship, family, and Amish romance.

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

Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele writes Amish Romance peppered in humor, using her rural surroundings as her muse. She is a best-selling author and the winner of the 2022 FHLCW Reader's Choice award for sweet romance. Steele creates realistic characters for her readers and believes in engaging all the senses to make you laugh, cry, hold your breath, and root for the happy-ever-after ending. Readers can find themselves, somewhere within the pages of her Amish fiction or romantic suspense novels.

Learn more by visiting Mindy's Website. 

You can also follow her on Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter  

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 by Anne Blackburne

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele

The Daughter's Choice by Kelly Irvin

Plain Jane's Secret Admirer by Anne Blackburne

A Heart on Consignment by Mindy Steele

View all my reviews

Pursued on the Run by Terri Reed

ABOUT THE BOOK

He’ll do anything to clear his name…
and protect his son.

Framed for a crime he didn’t commit, former sheriff’s investigator Sean Donovan is finally released from prison, only to be ambushed by unknown assailants—and left with a chilling warning. With his attackers now targeting his former fiancée, Assistant District Attorney Tracy Lynwood, he must take her under his protection…along with the son he didn’t know about. Fleeing to a remote location in Lake Tahoe, Sean and Tracy must navigate a web of corruption to expose the truth. But with fatal threats and untrustworthy allies everywhere, can they prove Sean’s innocence…and stay alive?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

This story packs an emotional wallop from the first page, and the intensity never lets up! The hero returns home after serving time for a crime he didn't commit, threats abound from an unknown source, and a reunion with his ex-fiance introduces another tremendous shock! Sean Donovan has a son he didn't know about, and they all may be in danger!

I loved that I was kept guessing until the very end, because of carefully structured twists, turns, and clever hints that suggested one thing but actually meant something else. A second chance seemed likely for Sean and Tracy but there was a little matter of him finally proving his innocence! This is romantic suspense at its best, but author Terri Reed doesn't forget the nuggets of faith that are always so inspiring. Pursued on the Run is a perfect choice for fans of romantic Christian suspense!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Terri Reed's awarding winning romance and romantic suspense novels have appeared on Publishers Weekly top 5 Romance Bestsellers and Publishers Weekly top 5 Religion Fiction Bestsellers, Publishers Weekly top 5 Mass Market Paperback Bestsellers, Nielsen's Bookscan top 25 Bestsellers and featured in USA Today and have been #1 Amazon Bestsellers, as well as Fresh Picks at FreshFiction.com. Her novel A Family Under the Christmas Tree was adapted into a Hallmark movie and retitled Picture a Perfect Christmas. She resides in the Pacific Northwest with her college-sweetheart husband. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and agility training with her dog.

Learn more by visiting Terri's      Website    Facebook     Instagram

OTHER BOOKS BY TERRI REED

Search and Detect 

Trained to Protect

Standing Watch

Texas Christmas Cover-Up

Pursued on the Run

View all my reviews

Harbor Pointe (Hope Harbor #12) by Irene Hannon

ABOUT THE BOOK

As a principal dancer with a prestigious New York ballet company, Devyn Lee is far from her hometown of Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast. But when a family emergency compels her to return, her visit turns into an extended stay after complications arise.

Widowed millworker Aaron Steele pays no attention to the buzz in Hope Harbor about the famous dancer in town. Until his grieving ten-year-old daughter takes a fancy to Devyn after she agrees to help with a fundraising show for a local charity in which the young girl is performing. As the show--and Devyn--begin to lift his daughter's spirits, his own life is brightened by the beautiful ballerina as she slowly but surely captures his heart.

But what are the odds that such an accomplished, polished woman from the city could ever fall for a small-town lumberman with two left feet?

Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon once again transports readers to the irresistible beauty and romance of the beloved coastal small town of Hope Harbor.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

Famed ballerina Devyn Lee is called back to her hometown after her sister is seriously injured, but this temporary visit may be more than she bargained for. After years of estrangement, will she be able to repair her strained relationship with her sister Lauren? Devyn also encounters a hunky mill worker, and the saying "opposites attract" has never been truer! They may inhabit different worlds, but who wouldn't love a widower dedicated to caring for his grieving little girl and his grandfather? I loved the amazing chemistry between Devyn and Aaron, their reluctance and denial, and eventually, their acceptance of fate. Or should I say, God's Plan, with a little help from a charming matchmaker named Gramps?

What could be better than going home, seeing old friends, and replenishing my faith? I experience this joy each time I read one of Irene Hannon's Hope Harbor novels, and this book is no exception. Harbor Pointe is realistic, heartwarming, and inspiring! I recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian fiction, and I can't wait for the next visit to this Oregon coastal town!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my thoughts alone.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Irene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 50 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.

A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit her Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram  

Hope Harbor Series

Hope Harbor

Sea Rose Lane

Sandpiper Cove

Pelican Point

Driftwood Bay

Starfish Pier

Blackberry Beach

 Sea Glass Cottage 

Windswept Way 

Sandcastle Inn 

Sunrise Reef 

Harbor Pointe 

View all my reviews

Lassos and Lace (Healing Springs Ranch, #3) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

The lone girl of the family doesn’t think the McQuaid legacy of love can be hers. But is it within her reach after all?

As the event manager for Healing Springs Ranch, Emberly McQuaid works hard to prove her worth to her family. When an international banking group arrives at the ranch and her best personal concierge falls ill, Emberly has no choice but to step in and assist their most illustrious guest, the young and handsome CEO, Max Berg.

During his stay at the ranch, Prince Max is keeping his royalty a secret, hoping to escape the paparazzi along with the increasing pressure to marry a duchess by his birthday. He resists telling Emberly about his heritage because he likes that she doesn’t try to impress him. Even though he’s a workaholic, Max finds himself setting aside his duties to spend time with the beautiful redhead.

Feelings quickly escalate between the two, but they know a relationship can’t go anywhere. When they get stranded together in a mountain cabin, it’s all too easy to let the emotion of their time together sweep them away. But will they be able to overcome the obstacles that stand between them and find a way to be together?

* 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.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Have you heard of the McQuaid legacy of love? It's said that members of this family fall in love fast and their love lasts forever! Emberly McQuaid knows it's happened to her parents and her brothers, but she doesn't think it will happen to her. And then, the arrival of a special visitor to Hidden Springs Ranch changes her life forever!

Lassos and Lace is a contemporary romance that continues the McQuaid family legacy that originated in the 1800s. Fast, furious, and forever certainly applies to Emberly and Max's relationship! Their attraction is instant, their chemistry amazing, and the sexual tension tops the charts in this clean but sizzling closed-door romance!

I loved the characters, setting, and the royal romance trope. Throw in being snowbound in a cabin with a gallant prince and the complication of overprotective brothers, and you'll understand why Lassos and Lace is such a special addition to the Hidden Springs Ranch series. Well done, Jody Hedlund!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are mine alone.

My rating: 4 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     

Goodreads    Facebook

Twitter     Pinterest     Instagram     BookBub

Healing Springs Ranch

Spurs and Sparks

Broncos and Ballads

Lassos and Lace

View all my reviews

Find Me in the Story (Jonathon Island / Season 2, #1) by Lisa Jordan & Susan May Warren

ABOUT THE BOOK

He built walls. She brought sunshine. Something had to give.

Eliza Quinn is running—from grief, from memories, from a hometown that holds too much pain. When her mother's illness pulls her back to charming Jonathon Island, she tells herself it's temporary. Help with the family. Don't get attached. Don't stay.

Then she meets Oliver Sullivan.

The brooding bookstore owner hasn't smiled since his wife died. His shop is failing. His heart is frozen. He doesn't need a partner, and he definitely doesn't need the sunshine-bright marketing whiz who keeps throwing open his curtains and filling his quiet world with chaos.

Except... maybe he does.

Forced to work together on a literary festival to save the bookstore, Eliza and Oliver discover that their differences might be exactly what they both need. She brings light to his shadows. He gives her a reason to stay. Between late nights and early morning arguments, something unexpected begins to bloom.

But trust doesn't come easy for two people who've been hurt. And one misunderstanding could destroy everything—including their chance at love.

Find Me in the Story is a heartwarming grumpy-sunshine romance about healing, second chances, and discovering that the best chapter of your life might be the one you never planned to write. Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, and cozy Hallmark movies.

MY THOUGHTS.....

It's such a treat to visit Jonathon Island again, and I couldn't have asked for a better return! Two grieving people join forces as Jonathon Island prepares for a special Book Festival. Eliza Quinn is an over-the-top enthusiast who doesn't just ask for a job in Oliver Sullivan's bookstore; she informs him that he needs to hire her! Will this somewhat reserved owner be willing to work with someone as outgoing as Eliza?

Find Me in the Story is a touching story of loss, grief, and second chances. Oliver's outward grumpiness can't hide his love for children or his joy in offering a story time each Saturday morning. This dedication isn't lost on Eliza, and her enthusiasm may be just what he needs! As their friendship deepens, Oliver accepts that he and Eliza may have a mutual story waiting to be written.

"New-to-me" author Lisa Jordan shares a lovely story of hope, faith, and healing. I recommend Find Me in the Story to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Heart, home, and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements come naturally. Represented by Cynthia Ruchti of Books & Such Literary Management, Lisa is an award-winning author for Harlequin’s Love Inspired, writing contemporary Christian romance that promises hope and happily ever after. His Road to Redemption, her ninth published novel, was released in January 2022. Happily married to her own real-life hero for over thirty years, Lisa and her husband have two grown sons. By day, she is the content manager for Novel Academy, an online writing academy powered by My Book Therapy. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys quality family time, being creative with friends, or getting lost in a good book. 

Learn more about Lisa at lisajordanbooks.com.

Follow her on    Facebook     X     Instagram

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award–winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith.

For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website or connect with Susan on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Jonathon Island | Season 2

Find Me in the Story by Lisa Jordan

View all my reviews

Sung in the Shadows (The Art of Love and Danger, #2) by Crystal Caudill

ABOUT THE BOOK

No one can know Nora Davis's true identity as the daughter of the famed opera singer Constanza Brisbane. After Nora escaped a kidnapping as a child, the Brisbanes slipped into the shadows and changed their identities to avoid the still-prowling captors. But after Constanza's paranoia caught up to her, she landed in Longview Asylum. It's here that Nora engages in secret singing lessons with her mother and avoids Ezekiel Beaumont.

Employed by Pike's Opera House, Ezekiel visits his suicidal ma in the asylum every week. As Nora's and Ezekiel's weekly visits align, he begins to wonder whether Nora's ma is really the famed Constanza Brisbane who went missing mid-performance. And he’s determined to find out.

When Nora is forced to make Ezekiel's acquaintance, the singing world becomes a little too close for comfort, but she's drawn to Ezekiel all the same. While Nora and Ezekiel grow closer, Nora begins to fear that she, too, is losing her mind when she suspects she’s being watched. Will Ezekiel be able to protect his mother from suspected danger, along with the woman he’s falling for?

MY THOUGHTS.....

Crystal Caudill's wonderful writing talents are on full display in this new book! Sung in the Shadows is a mesmerizing tale of intrigue, mystery, and suspense within the fascinating world of opera singers in the last decades of the 1800s. Nora Davis loves this world, but she can't reveal her true identity because her mother is incarcerated in an asylum for the mentally ill.

Remarkable characters, superb plotting, and intricate historical details make this such an outstanding story. I especially loved the author's Historical Notes. Longview Asylum for the Insane and Pike's Opera House are two Cincinnati, Ohio, landmarks that played prominent roles, and the addition of romance, humor, and an inspiring faith message added to my enjoyment!

"We can do everything right and it still not be enough. Only God is enough, even though sometimes it doesn't feel like He is."

Caudill kept me fully engaged in this touching story that targets the stigma that a diagnosis of mental illness can produce. I highly recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction!

A complimentary copy was provided by the author and Kregel Publications via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. These opinions are mine alone.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Crystal Caudill is the author of "dangerously good historical romance," with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW.

She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Caudill can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio.

Learn more at crystalcaudill.com. You can also find her on Facebook     Twitter     Instagram.

  

THE ART OF LOVE AND DANGER

Written in Secret

Sung in the Shadows

View all my reviews

The Beginner's Quilt by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Lifelong Love for Quilting Starts in 1967, Arthur, Illinois

Despite the best efforts of Emma Bontrager’s mother, Emma hasn’t learned much of anything that will prepare her to be an Amish wife. Therefore, she’s sent to Arthur, Illinois, to be taught by her paternal grandmother. Though she would rather be fishing, hiking, or playing baseball, Emma finally listens to her grandmother and even finds she enjoys working on a Tree of Life quilt. Having met a nice young man, she now feels more prepared for marriage. But rumors swirl around his character, and it looks like she’ll be returning to Indiana with a broken heart. Even so, her time in Illinois has ignited a new passion for quilting that will last for years.

- A stand-alone prequel to The Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club and Half-Stitched, the musical.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Many fans of Wanda E. Brunstetter are familiar with Emma Yoder Miller and her impressive quilting skills, but we now get to learn how young Emma was introduced to this wonderful tradition. Emma Bontrager's lack of interest in cooking and quilting prompted her mother to send Emma to spend the summer with her grandparents. Hopefully, Emma would learn the skills she would need as a young Amish wife. What followed was Emma's introduction to cooking, quilting, and a special young man in Arthur, Illinois. What a summer 1967 turned out to be!

I loved this prequel to Brunstetter's Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club, and two other books featuring Emma Bontrager Yoder Miller. Emma and Ivan Yoder exemplify all of the special qualities we expect of people raised in the Amish faith, and I was especially impressed by Ivan's commitment to doing what was right at the risk of losing something he dreamed of and longed for. The Beginner's Quilt has wonderful characters, an intriguing complication that I didn't see coming, and a reminder that we must take responsibility for our actions. This lovely page-turner left me wanting to read the other books featuring Emma!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

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

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

The Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club Series

The Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club

The Tattered Quilt

The Healing Quilt

The Beginner's Quilt (Prequel)

View all my reviews

Claire Holloway Is Winging It (High-Flying Romance, bk. 1) by Angela Ruth Strong

ABOUT THE BOOK

A romance in the skies from an award-winning author and flight attendant

After Claire Holloway's dream of becoming a ballerina plummets, she's left with her boyfriend as her only support . . . until she decides to become a flight attendant for the free travel. Based out of state, she moves into a crash pad with a gaggle of other flight attendants, and her fear of losing Wyatt seems to become a reality.

First Officer Nathan Stuart—a bit cynical since he and his fiancée broke up—meets a somewhat frazzled Claire on her very first day in the Seattle airport. When they end up on the same crew, he takes her under his wing, and they quickly bond.

When Claire's once-supportive boyfriend's attitude sours into resentment, she's left wondering whether her newfound joy is the right way to go. Pulled between two men and her new career, Claire must learn to listen for God's direction the same way her flight crew follows air traffic control.

In this hilarious rom-com, readers will lift off into the turbulent skies of romantic adventures as Claire navigates God's plan for her life.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I knew I'd found an author to follow when I alternated between wiping my tears and laughing out loud while reading this story! This isn't my first book by Angela Ruth Strong, but it reminded me again that no one is any better at creating romantic Christian fiction. She shares her personal experience as a flight attendant to relate Claire's thrilling adventures in her new career. Adventures that are sometimes hilarious, often emotional, and always inspiring. There's also a sweet romance when Claire finds herself torn between her boyfriend Wyatt and a co-pilot on some of her flights. Is Nathan merely a temporary distraction, or is God revealing another part of His Plan?

"Claire Holloway Is Winging It" is a delightful story with engaging characters and realistic life situations. I especially loved the friendship and encouragement from two supporting characters and the powerful faith journeys of both Nathan and Claire. Five stars for this awesome Christian rom-com!

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


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Angela Ruth Strong works as a flight attendant and uses her own crazy life experiences as inspiration for the stories she writes. Her books have earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been nominated for a Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon bestsellers. She and her husband also got to play extras when her novel Finding Love in Big Sky was adapted for film. To help aspiring authors, Angela started IDAhope Writers.  She lives in Idaho and blogs regularly on inspyromance and learnhowtowriteanovel.com.

Learn more at her Website. 

Follow her on     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram 

High-Flying Romance

Claire Holloway Is Winging It

Love Off Script Novels

Husband Auditions

Hero Debut

Fiancé Finale

View all my reviews

All Booked Up by Melody Carlson

ABOUT THE BOOK

Empty nester and widow Riva Owen lives in the Victorian house that's been in her family for three generations, but finances have become a challenge she can no longer ignore. Her daughter is pushing her to move, and after considering all her options, Riva knows selling would be the smartest course. But she just can't bring herself to leave years of memories--and her cherished library filled with hundreds of books.

When she pursues an alternative--opening her home to women like her who have been forced to make lifestyle changes and need a room to rent--Riva is unprepared for the mix of personalities and peculiarities of her new housemates. She is even more unprepared for Marcus, the handsome and handy older brother of one of her new tenants. The possibility of finding love again feels overwhelming, even as her tenants seem to have romantic schemes of their own.

Warm your heart with a contemporary romance story of found family, booklovers, new beginnings, and an unexpected second chance at love in Melody Carlson's delightful signature style.

AMAZON      BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

One of my go-to authors shares a heartwarming story of five unlikely roommates who end up becoming a family. Riva Owen's continued grief over losing her husband eighteen months earlier is escalated by the possibility that she may lose the home she's known all of her life. How will she find the courage to leave her home, and worse still, what will happen to her huge collection of books?

Loss, grief, acceptance, and hope are just a few of the emotions in Melody Carlson's touching story. Riva is offered a solution for her dilemma, but will she be brave enough to follow through? Can she accept the four unique women asking to share her home?

I enjoyed the five women who embraced different lifestyles and perspectives but still became a family. It wasn't easy, and the issues were often divisive, but somehow, they made it work! A possible romance for Riva was a pleasant possibility, but the primary focus was the friendship and support among these women!

I recommend All Booked Up to all who enjoy Christian women's fiction!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

Connect with Melody

Amazon Author Page       Facebook     Instagram     

Bookbub 

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Garden Cottage (Mackinac Cottages Series Book 4) by Carrie Fancett Pagels

ABOUT THE BOOK

Faith, family, hope, and love—on Mackinac Island!

Facing a summer alone, Paula, a widowed librarian, heads to her family’s cottage on Mackinac Island where she's surprised to see her nurse practitioner daughter. The author of a book on grief, Paula reconnects with an intriguing reader, Gennaro, whom she’d once previously encountered. World-famous chef, Gennaro, works at an island resort, and has kept a low profile since his wife’s tragic death. Gennaro, whose family owns massive farms in Tuscany, works with Paula on her cottage’s vegetable garden, and a deep friendship grows. Both Paula and Gennaro have college-age sons working on the island, too. When personal and family secrets erupt, can these two help their extended families and find healing for themselves?

MY THOUGHTS.....

I'm always thrilled to return to Mackinac Island through the thoughts and words of Carrie Fancett Pagels. To visit the lighthouses and beaches, see the horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, and beautiful flowers, while experiencing the everyday life of its residents. Garden Cottage is an intriguing story with romance and second chances, but the romance isn't limited to the very young. Paula and Genaro have both loved and lost, and their chance meeting offers them both a new beginning. Will they allow it to happen?

Pagels always makes her characters so believable! I loved that Paula was a 50-something retired librarian recovering from knee replacement surgery and expecting a lonely summer on Mackinac Island. Gennaro was a respected chef at one of the resorts, and their friendship blossomed as they worked together on Paula's garden. Books, gardening, and a middle-aged heroine and hero added to the realism, and their budding romance was sweet and delightful.

The author's personal experiences as a psychologist are evident in the emotional layers of Garden Cottage. It is an engaging, thought-provoking novel filled with grief, loss, joy, and trials, along with secrets and surprises that kept me turning the pages!

I received a complimentary copy of the book. A positive review was never required.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carrie Fancett Pagels is a multi-published award-winning author of Christian historical romance.  Twenty-five years as a psychologist didn't "cure" her overactive imagination! She resides with her family in the Historic Triangle of Virginia, which is perfect for her love of history. Carrie loves to listen to audiobooks, bake, walk with her family, and travel to beautiful places by the water– but not all at the same time!

Learn more by visiting Carrie's      Website     

Facebook     Twitter   Instagram     Pinterest     Bookbub 

You can also sign up for her Newsletter. 

Mackinac Cottages Series 

Butterfly Cottage 

Lilac Cottage

Tandem Cottage

Garden Cottage

View all my reviews