A Chance for Kallie Mae by Ann H. Gabhart

ABOUT THE BOOK

Kallie Mae Bertram has harbored two dreams since childhood: to learn to read and to one day marry Quinn Spencer. But her first dream slipped away when her little sister died of a fever and her mother passed in childbirth. Kallie promised to care for the baby and her younger brother, which meant putting aside her own desires in order to keep her family together. But then a moonlight school for adults offers Kallie hope of finally fulfilling that dream.

After Kallie's father forbids her from seeing Quinn, her second dream seems impossible until her frantic search through the woods for her missing sister leads to an unexpected encounter with Quinn--their first meeting in six years. The love they shared as children burns stronger than ever, awakening hopes Kallie thought were forever buried. But with their families locked in a bitter feud, following her heart could cost Kallie everything she's worked to protect.

Bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart brings history and romance from the Appalachian Mountains to life in her newest Southern fiction novel.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I love this book for so many reasons! It's written by one of my favorite Kentucky authors, set very near to my home, and it focuses on my passion for literacy! Kallie Mae Bertram's greatest desire was to learn to read, but she was left to care for her family after her mother died giving birth to her younger sister Emmy. Going to school seemed lost to her until a Moonlight School for adults began in Morehead, Kentucky! Grown men and women could work during the day and attend classes at night! Was it now possible for one of her dreams to come true?

I enjoyed the romance and history in A Chance for Kallie Mae. I've seen the original Moonlight School in Morehead that paved the way for adult literacy programs across the United States. Author Ann H. Gabhart perfectly captures their hesitation, doubts, and finally elation as they learn letters, words, and sentences! There's also a sweet romance that seemed doomed because of a feud between the Bertram and Spencer families. Kallie Mae had loved him forever, and Quinn was finally aware of her! Would this feud always keep them apart?

Gabhart offers a vivid portrayal of the strength and perseverance of her well-developed characters in 1911 rural Kentucky. A Chance for Kallie Mae is a touching story of family, hope, faith, and endurance. This is a book to read and savor time and time again!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ann H. Gabhart grew up on a farm in Kentucky. By the time she was ten she knew she wanted to be a writer. She's published over thirty novels. She and her husband have three children and nine grandchildren and she still lives on a farm not far from where she grew up. She loves playing with her grandkids, walking with her dog, reading and, of course, writing. Her Shaker books, set in her fictional Shaker village of Harmony Hill in the 1800's, are popular with readers. The Outsider was a Christian Fiction Book Award Finalist in 2009. Her Heart of Hollyhill books are Small Town, America books set in the 1960's. Angel Sister, a Rosey Corner book set during the Great Depression, will be followed by Small Town Girl. She has also written two books about Mary Breckinridge and the Frontier Nursing Service: These Healing Hills and An Appalachian Summer. 

To learn more, visit Ann's Website      

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MY OTHER REVIEWS OF BOOKS BY ANN H. GABHART

The Refuge

An Appalachian Summer

Along a Storied Trail

When the Meadow Blooms 

In the Shadow of the River

The Song of Sourwood Mountain

The Pursuit of Elena Bradford

A Chance for Kallie Mae

View all my reviews

The Eyes of River: An Appalachian Novel by Cindy K. Sproles

ABOUT THE BOOK

In the shadowed hollers of the early-twentieth-century Appalachian Mountains, Lizzy Haney is on the run.

She's been falsely accused of murder and is desperate to reunite with her brother, River, whose unforgettable green eyes haunt her. The secret in her past is a stinging wound, but it motivates her toward her freedom.

But nine-year-old River, sent through the United States Post Office to his late mother's friend in Knoxville, never arrived. Lizzy's dream of finding him and starting a new life away from their alcoholic and abusive father is ripped away.

Her hope rekindles as she finds an unexpected confidant to help her dodge the law and save the missing youngin'. As she finds herself trusting him, she discovers the truth of the old adage her momma And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I am a huge fan of author Cindy K. Sproles! Her authentic Appalachian settings, her ability to channel the very best of mountain people, and the in-depth research always evident in her stories...this is why she has become a must-read author for me!

The Eyes of River opens with Lizzy Haney mailing her younger brother by mail so that she can protect him from her abusive father. Did you know that mailing children through the United States mail was an acceptable act in 1913? Another important plotline in this mesmerizing story is also based on historical facts. A respected social worker in Memphis was charged with taking children and selling them for her personal gain. As we learn about Lizzy and River's backgrounds, we are plagued by the mystery of their mother's actions. Was their Momma somehow involved in similar actions?

I adored Lizzy Haney!  Her traumatic childhood certainly left her angry and bitter, but her love for her younger brother was even stronger. This is why she mailed him to a family friend in Knoxville, so that he would be safe until she joined him later. What she didn't count on was his disappearance. Her courageous journey to find River is told mostly through her POV, but thankfully, she is helped by the local sheriff's son, Alton. Will they succeed in finding the truth that will eventually save both Lizzy and River?

If you love a book that chills you with its vivid descriptions, challenges you with its truths, and inspires you with its hope and faith, you MUST not miss The Eyes of River! It is often gritty, but it's never without hope. This mesmerizing story will surely be a contender when the Book Award season begins!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cindy K. Sproles is an author and a speaker, whose dream is to do nothing more than craft words that speak from the heart. God's plan seems to be for her to write and teach the craft.  With God’s guidance, Cindy is expanding her horizons. We'll see how He uses her.

Cindy is a mountain gal. Proud of her heritage, she was born and raised in the Appalachian Mountains where life is simple, words have a deep southern drawl, and colloquialisms like, "well slap my knee and call me corn pone" seem to take precedence over proper speech. Apple Butter, coal mining, the river, pink sunrises, and golden sunsets help you settle into a porch swing and relax. Family, the love of God, and strong morals are embedded into her life in the mountains. Teaching writers, spinning fiction tales about life in the mountains, history, and down-home ideas find their way into all she does. “I love to write devotions, to seek after the deeper side of Christ, and to share the lessons He teaches me from life in the hills of East Tennessee. I am a writer. A speaker. A lover of God's Word and friend to all.” 

Learn more at her Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

What Mama Left Behind

This Is Where It Ends

Coal Black Lies

The Eyes of River

View all my reviews

The Bachelor Spy (A Freddie and Grace Mystery #5) by Pepper Basham

ABOUT THE BOOK

Spies Infiltrate Havensbooke Hall. . .and Another Mystery Adventure Begins

Stephen Blake's life goal is to protect people, especially those closest to him, but war in 1915 England doesn’t follow any rules. When Blake is informed that a noted German spy may have taken up residence at Havensbrooke Hall—his cousin Lord Astley’s estate, which is being used as a convalescent war hospital—he’s sent there to uncover the plot.

Lady Grace Astley has become a force to be reckoned with while Frederick is out on the war front. With Havensbrooke as a hospital, she’s shocked by the devastation the war is bringing home; but ever hopeful, she is determined to help these weary soldiers find some relief. However, not everything is as it seems inside Havensbrooke. Precious items soon start disappearing. . .and not just the kind that are worth a lot of money.

Through a case of mistaken identity, a comedy of errors, a kidnapping, and a race for time within the crumbling subterranean passageways beneath Havensbrooke, can Blake and Gracie work together to root out the criminals, thieves, and spies before time runs out?

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Did author Pepper Basham know the sensation that she was creating when she wrote The Mistletoe Countess in 2021?  Did she realize that four books later, in what is supposed to be the last book in her series, readers would still be totally smitten with Grace and Frederick Astley? Well, believe me, this reader is!

I loved The Bachelor Spy! The chemistry between Grace and Freddie is just as tantalizing now as it was then, but there's something even more intriguing in this story. Their love has deepened; they have grown emotionally, and they're now faced with the realities of war and separation. And Grace is still an amateur sleuth who can't help being drawn into danger and mystery!

If you're craving a clean romance with some of the best kisses ever, grab a copy of The Bachelor Spy! It is a delightful book with amazing characters, inspiring faith, a story that kept me turning the pages, and the best epilogue EVER! It can be read as a standalone, but I'm sure you'll want to read the others also. The books in the Freddie and Grace mystery series are meant to be read and savored!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroads and Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

You can connect with Pepper by visiting her website, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

FREDDIE & GRACE MYSTERY

The Mistletoe Countess

The Cairo Curse

The Juliet Code

The Highland Heist

The Bachelor Spy

View all my reviews

Beach House Rescue by Hope Toler Dougherty

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.

AMAZON

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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Forever Music

Forever Free

View all my reviews

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

AMAZON

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

Follow her on Facebook     Instagram

The Bible Recap Knowing God Series

1 & 2 Thessalonians: Hope in the Midst of Trials

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

View all my reviews

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

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.

AMAZON

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

Follow her on    Facebook     Instagram     Pinterest

View all my reviews

The Amish Rancher's Return by Amy Lillard

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?

AMAZON

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 Christmas Promise

The Amish's Bachelor Promise

The Amish Nanny's Secret

The Amish Rancher's Return

View all my reviews

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