Daisy Harper is determined to wait for the perfect man, one that meets her list of ten requirements she has for a husband. But when mapmaker Seth Rogan enlists her help to search for missing gold, she finds herself entering a marriage of convenience. As Daisy and Seth hunt for the gold, they realize that their hearts are becoming entwined. When someone else is set on finding the gold before they do, danger threatens to tear their new relationship apart.
About the Authors
Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, 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. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.
Patti Stockdale writes sweet romance full of hope, history, and a good happily ever after.
This story has intriguing mystery, lovely romance, and great characters that made it hard to put down! I was thrilled to read this second book in the Bride New Voyages series after really enjoying book one and meeting Daisy. The awkward romance that arises from a marriage of convenience story is well told among the beautiful scenic descriptions of western Canada. I found the danger and mystery surrounding the gold to be suspenseful and could not wait to read again and find out more. Both Seth and Daisy also have great character development as they face their insecurities and work towards growth and trust in God’s plan. I do think the story flows best if you read book one before this novel, but this story can stand on its own. They are both fantastic novels and highly recommended!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Peter Driscoll is tasked with finding the Briarwood Teardrop, a rare and exquisite sapphire that is thought to be worn by none other than the mysterious and beautiful silent film actress, Lily Temple. He enlists the help of Lily to unravel the mystery of the sapphire, attempting to also unravel the mystery of this elusive actress. As danger looms, Peter soon realizes that there is much at stake for both himself and for Lily.
About the Author
Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, Finding Lady Enderly, The Love Note, A Midnight Dance, and The Lost Melody. She loves tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives and is eager to hear anyone’s story. She lives with her husband and their children in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan. You can find her online at http://www.JDPStories.com.
Wow, this novel is stunning! A master at storytelling, this author once again pens a novel that is lyrical in its prose and pure gold in its wonderfully rich words. I felt myself drawn into the story immediately and enthralled by the weaving of secrets among the references to classical literature and film. The depth of the development of the characters coupled with their story of redemption and integration of realistic faith creates a novel that is captivating and very difficult to put down. I loved the history and the setting that is so well described that it transported me back to 1903 England. The plot is intricately written that speaks to the true talent of this author. I loved, loved, loved this novel and highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
In 1910, Effie James and her sister attempt to sneak into the eerie and empty house on 322 Predicament Avenue that everyone claims is haunted, and her sister witnesses something so terrifying she becomes mute and bedbound. Determined to figure out what her sister saw, Effie teams up with the strange British gentleman who is certain the house on Predicament Avenue is the same place his wife was last seen. A century later, Norah Richman is rather reluctantly running a bed and breakfast left by her great aunt on 322 Predicament Avenue. However, when a true crime podcaster stays at the B&B and wishes to investigate centuries old murders in their small town, Norah is forced to relive her twin’s horrendous murder thirteen years ago. As both Effie and Norah seek out answers, dangers abound at 322 Predicament Avenue.
About the Author
Jaime Jo Wright is the author of ten novels, including Christy Award and Daphne du Maurier Award-winner The House on Foster Hill and Carol Award winner The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond. She’s also a two-time Christy Award finalist, as well as the ECPA bestselling author of The Vanishing at Castle Moreau and two Publishers Weekly bestselling novellas. Jaime lives in Wisconsin with her family and felines. Learn more at JaimeWrightBooks.com.
This novel kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page until the very last page. Spooky and suspenseful, the book takes many twists and turns that are unexpected. And while initially things seem supernatural, the truth is soon revealed to be very logical. I loved how once again this talented author starts two seemingly unrelated stories separated by time and slowly reveals secrets that link details together across centuries. I also really like how this author is not afraid to dive deep into real struggles with her characters, and the demons that Effie and Norah struggle against are no exception. Grief, love, faith are all explored in such rich ways that make the characters come alive. Did I stay up too late to finish this book, and flinch at every nighttime noise outside my window? Yes! Was it all worth it? Also, yes! I highly recommend this novel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Gemma Parks, under the pseudonym G. M. Parker, enjoys the anonymity as she writes columns about the London elite for the local paper. She also uses her work to aid the Imposters, a group of investigators for hire who attempt to uncover the truth. If only she didn’t have to work so closely with Graham Wharton, the man who broke her heart. When Graham is tasked with finding a missing boy, he uses the opportunity of working closely with Gemma to win back the only woman he’s ever loved.
About the Author
Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award-winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. She pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of numerous novels, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to Edwardian British series. Roseanna lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at RoseannaMWhite.com.
This series has been such fun! The Imposters are a fascinating group of individuals with specific talents, and after enjoying Marigold and her brother’s story in the first book, I was greatly looking forward to reading more about Gemma and Graham. And their story did not disappoint! I really liked reading about how their relationship changed and evolved in the story. The fact that they had once been in love made their romance more believable to me. The story ebbs and flows perfectly, slowing down for detailed character growth and genuine faith discussions, and speeding up as the suspense and action reached a climax. I had a really hard time putting the book down! I think I loved this book even more than the first one if possible. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley and purchased my own print copy. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Zara and Noah have walked together with the Creator for their entire lives, and they have done their best in an increasingly wicked and defiant world to raise their three sons to follow in their footsteps. It has been a challenge–and it’s about to get much, much harder.
When the Creator tells her husband to build an ark to escape the coming wrath against the sins of humankind, Zara steps out with him in faith. But the derision and sabotage directed their way from both friends and extended family are difficult to bear, as is knowing that everyone she interacts with beyond her husband, her sons, and their wives is doomed to destruction. And when the ark is finally finished and the animals have been shut up inside, Zara and her family embark on an adventure that will test their patience and their faith as they await deliverance and dry ground.
About the Author
Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling and award-winning author of the biblical fiction series The Wives of King David, Wives of the Patriarchs, and Daughters of the Promised Land, as well as The Heart of a King, Star of Persia: Esther’s Story, Miriam’s Song, The Prince and the Prodigal,and Daughter of Eden. She is also the author of the nonfiction books When Life Doesn’t Match Your Dreams and She Walked Before Us. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in biblical times. Jill lives with her family in Michigan. Learn more at http://www.JillEileenSmith.com.
This novel is an incredible fictional glimpse into the very real story of Noah and his family obeying the call of God to build an ark despite the ridicule of their society. I thought the author did a great job depicting likely emotions and judgments of those around Noah and especially his wife, Zara. I could easily imagine the heartache she faced. I am amazed at the way the author takes Biblical details and adds rich fictional dialogue to help us better understand the faith and sacrifices of these people. As expected, the story is heavy at times, but I appreciated the thread of hope woven among the pages. This novel served to deepen my relationship and faith in a God who fulfills his promises and provides strength when trials seem great. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
One fateful night will change their destinies forever. . . .
Convinced that his stepmother and half brothers have been wrongfully evicted by cattle king Eli Dearing, Asher Ellis uses the cover of an extravagant ball to break into the Three Cedars’ ranch house to search for proof. On the verge of discovery, he flees, but a boy’s cry compels him to make a daring rescue.
Spunky and independent Samantha Dearing balks when she learns the ball her father is hosting is nothing more than a matrimonial ambush. Taking a break from unwanted suitors, Samantha spots a thief fleeing her home. When the stranger ends up saving her brother’s life, she hides the only clue to his identity left behind–his boot–and resolves to find him herself.
When Samantha encounters the older brother of a student she tutors, all thoughts of the bootless mystery man vanish. Asher values family above wealth, a rare trait that opens her heart. Afraid she will discover his past misconduct, Asher tries to keep his distance, but when a series of suspicious accidents befall her, he vows to protect her, even though saving her life could mean losing her love.
Voted #1 Reader’s Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas.
More from Karen
Character Names and Word Games
One of my favorite parts of writing any book is finding the perfect names for my characters. Names are so important. They carry meaning and expectation. They add historical flavor and help create a picture in the reader’s mind about who that character is. They can also add hidden joy to a story for me as the author that may or may not be realized by the reader.
If the Boot Fits was inspired by the classic fairy tale, Cinderella. I give it a fresh western twist and mixed up the plot a bit, but it was important to me to fill this tale with subtle nods to the version I loved as a child. One of the main ways I did this was through the naming of my characters.
I worked hard to create names that would harken back to the original while still carrying meaning of their own. Instead of Cinderella, we have a hero named Asher Ellis—Ash being a synonym of Cinder, and Ellis playing off of Ella. For our heroine, I wanted something to play on the “charming” motif without being too on-the-nose. I ended up selecting Samantha Dearing—Dearing like endearing or charming. Samantha is the feminine version of Samuel which comes into play in the story since her father’s name is Eli. The three key older ladies of the story all of names inspired by royalty, as befits a fairy tale—Regina, Elizabeth, and Victoria. Asher’s step brothers are named Jonathan and Fergus. However, Jonathan goes by Jack, giving a nod to the mice from Disney’s Cinderella, Jaq and Gus. Asher’s horse is named Bruno in honor of the dog who saved Cinderella from the tower room. We have a cattle king with a foreman named Duke as well. Whether readers catch all of these nods or not, they made me as the author smile while writing the story.
Here’s another way to have fun with names and other key story elements. I’ve created a word search for you to enjoy. Have fun!
What a fun, fresh Cinderella retelling! I loved that the roles were reversed in this novel (hint: it’s the man who loses the shoe!). I really liked the heroine and hero, Samantha and Asher. Samantha is compassionate and has a huge heart for those less fortunate. I loved her growth from an immature girl to a mature young lady who developed a love and respect for her father. I also really liked Asher’s growth as he learns more about the cattle rancher who has driven his family off their land. And the romance between Samantha and Asher is the perfect blend of spark-filled romance and realistic love. In addition to fantastic characters, there are twists and turns that add mystery and danger to the novel. And, of course, the wonderful tidbits of faith are so well woven into the story. I absolutely loved this novel and cannot wait for the next one by this talented author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Asher Ellis is certain that his stepmother has been mistreated by cattle king Eli Dearing, so he sneaks into his home in an effort to prove his theory. But when Mr. Dearing’s headstrong daughter, Samantha, nearly catches him, he’s forced to flee, stopping only when he feels obligated to save another Dearing family member. Samantha is appalled that her father is so set on setting up a match for her, and oddly finds herself dreaming of the daring stranger who saved her brother’s life. She has the fleeing burglar’s unique boot as evidence, but despite her best efforts, she cannot find the thief turned hero. When danger suddenly closes in on Samantha, she finds herself needing to trust a man who is hiding secrets of his own.
About the Author
Voted #1 Reader’s Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas. Learn more about Karen and her books at KarenWitemeyer.com.
What a fun, fresh Cinderella retelling! I loved that the roles were reversed in this novel (hint: it’s the man who loses the shoe!). I really liked the heroine and hero, Samantha and Asher. Samantha is compassionate and has a huge heart for those less fortunate. I loved her growth from an immature girl to a mature young lady who developed a love and respect for her father. I also really liked Asher’s growth as he learns more about the cattle rancher who has driven his family off their land. And the romance between Samantha and Asher is the perfect blend of spark-filled romance and realistic love. In addition to fantastic characters, there are twists and turns that add mystery and danger to the novel. And, of course, the wonderful tidbits of faith are so well woven into the story. I absolutely loved this novel and cannot wait for the next one by this talented author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Stella Rivers didn’t expect her ex-fiancée to be her rescuer when she was forced by an SUV off the road and nearly dies, but Von Sharpe is the one who pulls her out of the SUV just before a large earthquake cracks the ground beneath them. Despite the world crumbling around them, there is still someone who is hunting Stella and will stop at nothing until she is dead. Von is willing to allow Stella to stay with him at his tourist base camp, despite the fact that her nearness is stirring up feelings from the past. Stella is also harboring a secret that could threaten their tentative friendship. As danger looms, Stella and Von must learn to trust each other in order to survive.
About the Author
USA TODAY bestseller Dana Mentink enjoys writing in many different capacities. She currently writes for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press. Dana is the recipient of a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards as well as a Holt Medallion. Dana loves feedback from her readers. Contact her via her website at www.danamentink.com.
This book was seriously hard to put down! Nonstop action starting on page one and not letting up until the very end. I liked the complex relationship of Stella and Von; their past relationship and present interactions made them feel realistic. I thought Von’s temper was a bit much at times, but I think this was reflective of his military service and did make sense with his character. I also got a little frustrated with Stella not telling Von her secret, even though most everyone else at the base camp knew it. The faith element was well integrated into the story. I think the action was well written and the twists near the end made it not too predictable. I also loved the dogs! Overall, I really liked this story. It was my first by this author but it will not be my last!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
As the German army invades the Netherlands in 1940, Aleida van der Zee Martens escapes to London to wait out the Occupation. Separated from her three-year-old son, Theo, in the process, the young widow desperately searches for her little boy even as she works for an agency responsible for evacuating children to the countryside.
When German bombs set London ablaze, BBC radio correspondent Hugh Collingwood reports on the Blitz, eager to boost morale while walking the fine line between truth and censorship. But the Germans are not the only ones Londoners have to fear as a series of murders flame up amid the ashes.
The deaths hit close to home for Hugh, and Aleida needs his help to locate her missing son. As they work together, they grow closer and closer, both to each other and the answers they seek. But with bombs falling and continued killings, they may be running out of time.
About the Author
Sarah Sundin is the bestselling author of When Twilight Breaks, Until Leaves Fall in Paris, The Sound of Light,and the popular WWII series Sunrise at Normandy, among others. She is a Christy Award winner and a Carol Award winner, and her novels have received starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly, and have appeared on Booklist‘s “101 Best Romance Novels of the Last 10 Years.” Sarah lives in California. Visit SarahSundin.com for more information.
Full of interesting history and compelling characters, this novel is well worth the read. I liked the way the author brought the history alive through well written, detailed scenes containing fascinating history that was clearly well researched. I thought the two main characters, Aleida and Hugh, were a great match and their banter was entertaining. The abusive situation at the beginning of the novel as well as Aleida being separated from her son were hard for me to read, but I think the story ended well. The emotions of the characters were easily felt by me, and I think this is a testament to great writing. I loved the faith elements woven in the novel. There was also a bit of action in the novel that kept my attention and made the book hard to put down. Overall, I really liked this historical fiction novel and I recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Catriona Daly longs to leave her sleepy town and adventure away to exciting places, preferably on the arm of a handsome husband. Ironically, as the daughter of a local matchmaker, she remains painfully single. Determined to use this year’s local matchmaking festival to garner a husband, she is awed by Andrew Osborne, son of a local lord. Widower and cattle farmer Donal Bunratty reluctantly attends the matchmaking festival at the urging of his daughter, where he is captivated by Catriona. Soon Catriona finds herself in a triangle of love, where the choice of her head suddenly doesn’t match the choice in her heart.
About the Author
Jennifer Deibel is the author of A Dance in Donegal (winner of the Kipp Award for Historical Romance), The Lady of Galway Manor, and The Maid of Ballymacool. Her work has appeared on (in)courage, on The Better Mom, in Missions Mosaic magazine, and in other publications. With firsthand immersive experience abroad, Jennifer writes stories that help redefine home through the lens of culture, history, and family. After nearly a decade of living in Ireland and Austria, she now lives in Arizona with her husband and their three children. You can find her online at http://www.JenniferDeibel.com.
Delightful! I love that this author lived for a time in Ireland and writes from a first-hand experience with the culture because, as someone who also lived on the Emerald Isle, her accurate language and poise transport me back to the lilting language of the Irish and the green rolling hills of the countryside. I love the descriptive scenes and the spunky characters. This novel had great romance that, due to the love triangle, was not altogether predictable. I had a hard time putting the story down and greatly enjoyed reading about the developing relationships. The near tragedies and character development both add complexity to the plot and make the story believable. And the spiritual truths of faith and trusting God’s provision were well written and not preachy. I really loved this novel and highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Life of Literature 