In 2024 I read significantly fewer books than I usually do. It turns out that moving slows your reading time, and so does starting a new relationship, getting engaged, and planning a wedding! It's been a busy year. 😉😍

Reading remains a joy, though, and I fit it in where I can. After surveying my completed titles in 2024, here are the five that rose to the top. They're arranged alphabetically by author's last name. You can click on any book to check out the title on Amazon.

Loyally Luke "Loyally, Luke" by Pepper Basham
This whole series was a blast, and in the finale of the trilogy handyman Luke, despiser of Hallmark movies, gets his own Hallmark-worthy romance when he falls in love with a woman he doesn't realize is an actual princess of the country of Skymar. Could he, a simple Appalachian, ever truly win the heart of European royalty?

Love in Tandem "Love in Tandem" by Becca Kinzer
How far would you go for charity? Would you go on a 500-mile tandem bike ride while faking a romantic relationship with your teammate, who also happens to be your former fiance's brother? I mean, really, what could go wrong in this scenario? Pretty much everything does go wrong, but Charlotte and Zach learn valuable lessons about life and faith along the way.

Rocky Road "Rocky Road" by Becky Wade
FBI agent Jude is as buttoned-up as they come. Serious. Guarded. But when he meets perfumer Gemma Clare and has to pose as her boyfriend for a case, everything about Jude starts coming undone. Gemma is a creative free spirit who also happens to be in more than a little danger. Protecting his heart might be even more difficult than completing the assignment.

The Rhythm of Fractured Grace "The Rhythm of Fractured Grace" by Amanda Wen
While the first three books on this list have all had their humorous side, this book's deep theme of redemption is not one to treat lightly. In this split-time novel, the historical storyline follows a woman who survived a scalping, while the contemporary storyline explores the topic of sexual abuse within the church. Deep subjects, beautiful writing, and God's grace on display in very tough situations.

A Noble Scheme "A Noble Scheme" by Roseanna M. White
Here's another book with forgiveness and relationships at its core. The Imposters are a group of social elites who moonlight as private investigators, but they are hiding secrets of their own. This book weaves intrigue, emotion, and faith in a compelling way as the Imposters seek to find a kidnapped child and restore relationships that have been broken.
Cloaked in Beauty

Are you read for another Texas fairy tale retelling? Cloaked in Beauty blends Little Red Riding Hood with Sleeping Beauty for a romantic adventure with a little danger thrown in for good measure.

Pinkerton agent Philip Carmichael has been given an unusual task. Scarlett Radcliffe has been hidden away since she was a child, cared for by her grandmother and her faithful pet wolf. Though her father's death was ruled an accident, Scarlett's mother believes her uncle was behind the tragedy and that he will go further and harm Scarlett in order to claim as much of the family wealth for himself as he can. Now that Scarlett's twenty-first birthday is approaching, the time has come to find Scarlett and bring her home to claim her inheritance and legally move it out of her uncle's grasp.

While Philip is up for the hunt, he's unprepared for the depth of his feelings that blossom for Scarlett, now known as Letty, once she's in his care. He cannot take advantage of such a sheltered and generous young woman, but how could he do less than fall in love with her?

If you enjoy romantic fairy tale retellings, you'll love this one. I personally felt the love story was a little too prominent, and Letty as an isolated character didn't ring true for me. Uncle Drake was also entirely one-dimensional as a villain.

However, readers who enjoy getting swept away and suspending disbelief might be thrilled by the very things that bothered me, so I hope you'll check out the book for yourself. It's imaginative and you'll enjoy recognizing pieces of the fairy tales as they come across the page.

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.
An Honorable Deception
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This story gets off to an explosive start when a young gentlewoman is ambushed, shot, and left for dead. Thankfully, the private investigator she was meeting with, who is none other than Lord Yates Fairfax of the Imposters, is there to rescue Lady Alethia and take on the case to find her missing nanny. Who would want to silence Lady Alethia's quest to the point of attempting murder?

The Imposters are back in the third and final novel of this captivating series. Although the group's numbers have stayed small out of necessity to their identity a secret, some things are going to require letting others in. Lady Lavinia Hemming, longtime neighbor of the Fairfaxes with haunting secrets of her own, takes to private investigative work like a duck to water and quickly becomes a valuable member of the team.

While I appreciated the quick start to the novel, the middle lagged a bit until the pieces fell into place. Once the team grasps the full consequences of where Lady Altheia's missing nanny might be, it is then full steam ahead until the dramatic conclusion.

Although done with careful language and extreme grace, this story takes on what we would call today trafficking and grooming. As I said, it is handled very well, but this might be an issue some readers should be aware of.

It was great joy to reenter the world of the Imposters and catch up with these characters who have become friends. The love triangle trope is not my favorite, but I must say it's done quite intriguingly and I kept waffling in deciphering if Yates would choose Lady Alethia or Lady Lavinia. It worked out exactly as it was supposed to in the end.

If you're a fan of Roseanna's other series, you'll enjoy seeing familiar characters who make cameo appearances in this book. Overall, I would recommend this for all who enjoy historical romance with a side of suspense.

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.


About the Author

Roseanna M. White

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award winning author who has long claimed that words the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she's homeschooling, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books...to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.

The Imposters, 3

In the trying art of balancing investigations and love, a detective must determine his priorities when faced with dangerous circumstances that could threaten everything he holds dear.

As the leader of the Imposters, an elite private investigative firm, Lord Yates Fairfax has made an art of concealing his identity. But when his newest client, the beautiful Lady Alethia Barremore, is shot while leaving their meeting, he throws caution to the wind and rushes to her air. Though Lady Alethia thought she was only looking for her missing former nanny, she has clearly stumbled upon something much more dangerous.

Lady Lavinia Hemming suspects her longtime friends hold more secrets than they're willing to admit, and when she stumbles upon the truth that they're the esteemed Imposters, she recruits herself into the firm. While she is happy for the distraction of an investigation, Lavinia's own family secrets continue to haunt her. And the one thing bringing laughter back into her life—her friendship with Yates—lands her squarely on the disagreeable side of her best friend: his sister.

Tormented by a past she doesn't dare voice aloud, Lady Alethia does what she can to help her handsome host, her new friends, and the investigators. But as clues lead them deeper into the dark side of society, Alethia, Yates, and Lavinia learn anew that the gentry isn't always noble . . . even as they fight to hold fast to their honor.
 
 
Of Gold and Shadows


Ami Dalton grew up the daughter of a renowned Egptologist and she's working hard to follow in his footsteps. She holds a secret identity as the Shadow Broker, seeking to find Egyptian artifacts and either place them where all can enjoy or send them back to their homeland. Her greatest desire is to one day lead an archaeological dig herself.

But when she literally stumbles into Edmund Price, England's most eligible bachelor, her short-term goals are sidetracked. Edmund has imported a shipment of Egyptian artifacts and needs someone to evaluate them and price them to sell quickly. Ami agrees to help with the ulterior motive of convincing him to sell them not to the public but to a museum in Cairo.

Edmund has never met anyone like Ami. She cares about different things and expresses herself unlike any woman he's ever met. It's refreshing to meet a female who isn't chasing after him. When strange things begin happening around his manor home, could they be related to the curse of the golden griffin than was found in one of his crates? Or is something more sinister and human in nature at work?

This is an adventurous novel full of intrigue and romance. I enjoyed the main characters and found them to be believable and worth cheering for. Though I saw some of the twists and turns coming, others took me by surprise. The romance was sweet and clean. I actually thought there was a little too much romance for my taste, if only because it seemed to dominate the middle part of the story. Your taste may differ. There are also beautiful layers of faith that will stir your heart even as the story stirs your imagination.
 
I'd recommend this story for all fans of historical romance with threads of suspense.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.
I Think I Was Murdered 

I don't read much suspense, but I was intrigued by this book the moment I heard about it. With that title and the subject of Artificial Intelligence, I knew I wanted to read it, and I was happy when I saw the audiobook was available on NetGalley.

Katrina Foster lost her husband in a car accident about a year ago, but she stays busy as a lawyer with a Silicon Valley tech firm. Her company has developed an AI program in which you could load a loved one's text messages, pictures, email, and online history, and using that information a chatbot talks with you as though they were the deceased person, pulling from the "memories" you have programmed in. Katrina has been talking with Jason throughout the year since his death, feeling comforted by the responses of the bot that so mirror the man she loved.

Until one day when Katrina asks the chatbot a question and it replies: "I think I was murdered."

Katrina's life quickly spins out of control as she looks deeper into Jason's death. She retreats to her hometown and enlists the help of a friend from the past in solving the puzzles being thrown her way. Who wanted to kill Jason? Now that she's looking into his death, will they be coming after her next?

I really enjoyed the story. The characters were complex and layered. I did suspect who the bad guy was from the moment they walked onto the scene, though the authors did a great job throwing red herrings all over the place. My one complaint was that the characters seemed way too unconcerned about their safety, going into "hiding" that wasn't really hiding, turning down security from the FBI, and personally interacting with a foreign mob. They believed they could handle it all themselves. Even with that minor complaint, the story hummed along at an exciting pace but wasn't too intense for this non-suspense reader. I might even have to look into reading more in this genre!

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.
The Blooming of Delphinium 

Delphinium Hayes has a special gift. As a florist, she's familiar with the scents and meanings of flowers. As someone with synesthesia, she can also pick up the innate scents of people—and they happen to match the flowers she loves so much. She's able to discern a person's true character from only a whiff.

She also has a soft spot for the seniors from the local assisted living facility. When they start meeting for forbidden poker games in her walk-in cooler, Delphinium is helpless but to play hostess. As more seniors join the group, hijinks ensue, especially when they find out that Delphinium's business is in trouble. They make it their mission to save the shop and honor their beloved friend.

This book made me laugh out loud. I really enjoyed the seniors and how they stole every scene they were in. I didn't relate to Delphinium quite as much, with her impulsive and sometimes reactionary personality. However, her big heart makes her a heroine worth cheering for. After years of feeling overlooked and misunderstood, she's finally found people who love her just as she is. There's even a little romance to brighten the colorful bouquet of personalities.

I'd highly recommend this book for fans of Jan Karon's Mitford series or anyone who enjoys wholesome, character-driven stories. You'll love Moonberry Lake and its quirky residents.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Fianc Finale JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Fiancé Finale by Angela Ruth Strong hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


There's nothing quite like a story that starts with a turned down marriage proposal.

Charlie Newberg believes God told him to marry Nicole Lemaire, but she doesn't seem to agree. Their broken engagement five years ago has not helped the start of what he hopes will be something new. But Nicole's job in marketing just took a major hit, and now she's forced to rely on Charlie and his award-winning documentaries to get her professional career off the ground again.
 
This Love Off Script series has been so fun. It's romcom, but it has real depth to it. That said, I almost felt like Fiance Finale had too much depth. Charlie is passionate about real issues around the world, like illegal gold mining and the lack of prenatal care in some Asian countries. The world needs people who are passionate about these things, but his drive was so overpowering that it almost dragged this book down, the same as it threatened to drag down his relationship with Nicole. That said, I was really rooting for him to be able to succeed in these documentaries because they are important issues that need to be brought to light.
 
There is a good faith thread woven through the book, becoming especially strong at the end. Readers who loved the other books in this series will be happy to see plenty of their favorite characters. I laughed out loud and even cried while reading the story. I enjoyed seeing each of these characters learn and grow, fall and get back up. 
 
If you're looking for a story that will make you laugh and make you think, be sure to check out Fiance Finale as well as the whole Love Off Script series.

I received my copy of the book from JustReads Publicity. All thoughts in this review are my own.

About the Book


Fianc Finale

Title: Fiancé Finale 
Series: Love Off Script #3 
Author: Angela Ruth Strong 
Publisher: Kregel Publications 
Release Date: October 22, 2024 
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance 
 
Charlie Newberg is sure about one thing: Nicole Lemaire is the woman God wants him to marry. There's a slight problem, though—he's already left her once. The day before their wedding. To make a documentary. 
 
But he's got a plan. The marketing firm she works for is the ideal choice for promoting his new film. Collaborating will give him the perfect chance to propose again, so he conspires with her boss to make sure she runs the campaign for the same kind of documentary Charlie left her—basically at the altar—for. 
 
Despite Nicole's resistance, the two work well together. But Charlie's going to need more than teamwork to convince the jilted bride to give him a second chance. In fact, he might need to fall in love in a way he's never really understood.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub



More Books from this Series: 

Husband Auditions: A Novel (Love Off Script Book 1) Hero Debut: A Novel (Love Off Script Book 2)




About the Author

Angela Ruth Strong

Angela Ruth Strong is the founder of IdaHope Christian Writers. Her books have earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been a finalist for the Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon best sellers. Her book Finding Love in Big Sky, Montana released as a movie in 2022. Strong lives in Meridian, Idaho, with her husband.

Connect with Angela by visiting angelaruthstrong.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.



Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Fiancé Finale and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Fianc Finale JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 23, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 30, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Meddling with Mistletoe


Whitney Garrett doesn't have a dream. But she's pretty good at cooking, so after a few "failure to launch" endeavors, she decides to go to culinary school. Her finances are proving an issue, but then her friend Aretha strikes a deal: Help my nephew fall in love with a visiting businesswoman and I'll cover the rest of your tuition.

How hard can it be to help two people fall in love?

Aretha's nephew Daniel is serious and studious. The holidays are not his favorite time of year, and his past heartbreak has made him guarded against all things romance. It's not his idea of a great time to spend December on Prince Edward Island helping his aunt close her business. But there's something endearing about his aunt's friend Whitney, and soon Daniel decides to brighten his own holiday by finding ways to make Whitney smile.

When Whitney realizes she's developing feelings for Daniel, will she decide to follow her heart or follow her desire to go to school? What will happen if she breaks her agreement with Aretha and can't make her school payment?

There was a lot to like about this book. A charming Prince Edward Island setting. Well-developed characters. Lots of references to pies and baking. The practical issues in the book made me shake my head, though, and I found a healthy dose of suspension of disbelief is required. I did love the way faith and the dreams of our heart were woven into the story. I really enjoyed seeing Whitney find her path, and I think this is a message a lot of readers can relate to.

If you're looking for a Hallmark-y holiday read, this short novel might be for you!

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Between the Sound and Sea


Things have been going south for Josephina Harris. Through no fault of her own, her Tennessee hometown has turned against her, and now her event planning business is floundering. In desperate need of any kind of job, Joey answers an ad looking for someone to remodel an old lighthouse in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

When Joey arrives on Bleakpoint Island, she quickly discovers there's been a mix-up about her gender, which sets an edge to her interaction with the men looking to hire her for the project. Then people begin warning her about the ghosts that haunt the island, hounded by the secrets of the past. Joey is convinced it's all stuff and nonsense, and sets right to work.

The remodeling job does indeed reveal a depth of secrets, and danger lurks on this otherwise deserted shore. Who is out to threaten her work? Is there any truth to the mythic Saint-Mae said to have rescued downed sailors in the 1940s, and does this girl have anything to do with the papers Joey finds hidden in the walls?

There is a lot to draw readers into this story. An idyllic setting. History. A series of mysteries to follow. I've really enjoyed this author's other books, but unfortunately this one fell a little flat for me. It was very slow and I never felt attached to any of the characters. I can see why other readers might love it, though. If you like contemporary fiction with a strong side of historical intrigue, I'd definitely recommend this. Also don't miss out on the author's other books, as those contain really great storytelling. I hope you'll check them out!

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Where Trees Touch the Sky JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Where Trees Touch the Sky by Karen Barnett hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!


This split-time novel brings the majestic redwood trees to life in a way that fully captured my imagination. I've never visited Redwood National Park, but I almost feel as if I have through the pages of this story.
 
In the 1920s, Marion Baker is a young organizer with the Save the Redwoods League. Her connection to the area and passion for preservation drive her to protect the forest from an encroaching timber baron. But when the timber baron's son steals her heart, she faces a choice about which love she must follow.
 
In the other half of the story, it's the 1970s and Marion's great-niece June Turner is ready to follow the family legacy and become a park ranger. A childhood bout with polio has limited her mobility, but June is determined to overcome any weakness and inspire a new generation to appreciate the giant redwoods. 
 
I really enjoyed this novel. Both storylines were very well-written and engaging, and the pacing was perfect between the two. The story is very character-driven, which I loved, though there is some exciting action in the last quarter of the book as things come to their climax. The author does a great job weaving in faith, the challenges faced by the disabled, and other true-to-life historical tidbits that remain relevant today. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good split-time novel or who loves the national parks. Be warned: You'll want to plan a trip to California after reading this!

I received my copy of the book from JustRead Tours. All thoughts in this review are my own.

About the Book


Where Trees Touch the Sky

Title: Where Trees Touch the Sky 
Series: National Parks 
Author: Karen Barnett 
Publisher: Kregel 
Release Date: August 13, 2024 
Genre: Christian Fiction, Dual Timeline 
 
Some secrets have shadows as long as the redwoods are tall. 
 
In the early 1920s, the accelerating destruction of the California redwoods is more than nature-loving Marion Baker can bear. Throwing herself headlong into the work of the Save the Redwoods League, she is shocked to learn that Frank Duncan, a man she's grown to love, is the son of one of the area's worst timber barons. Though devastated by the betrayal, she realizes this could also be an opportunity--if only she can convince him to help preserve her favorite grove from his father's greedy grasp. Is her love strong enough to persuade him to save these precious trees? Or will Marion choose to sacrifice her beliefs to keep Frank by her side? 
 
Nearly fifty years later, in 1972, polio survivor June Turner is deeply proud of the legacy her great aunt Marion has left as a redwood warrior. And despite her disability, June is determined to prove herself capable as a ranger at the recently established Redwood National Park, even if it means taking to the trails with her crutch in hand. What better way to carry on the family tradition of preserving God’s magnificent creation?
 
When aspiring film student Adam Garner approaches June to help make a documentary about Marion's life, she swiftly grabs the opportunity to spread her aunt's worthy reputation. That is, until they unearth a secret that might shatter the family legacy. In the scramble for answers, June may lose not only her family pride but also her own dreams. 
 
Karen Barnett's beautifully crafted split-time novel, set against the majestic backdrop of a beloved national park, immerses the reader in history that feels as fresh as if it happened yesterday. 
 
PURCHASE LINKS:

The Road Before Us


Here's a story for fans of Route 66 and split time novels! This is a sweet tribute to The Mother Road and also pays homage to a special connection between the author's parents and this famous highway.

Jade Jessup's past swirls all around her, a vortex of the pain and misdeeds of others that has once again left her at the end of herself. When an unexpected offer comes along, she finds herself driving down Route 66 with an old Hollywood movie star and her documentary-making son, capturing the retelling of the actress's love story and her start in the film industry.

Three timelines weave their way through the pages. The contemporary Route 66 trek, Benny's journey to California in 1956, and Jade's childhood adventure with her father that was not all as it seemed. Memories arise—both good and bad—as Jade, Benny, and Bridger travel west from Chicago through the heart of America.

I have traveled a little down Route 66 and enjoyed the mentions of places I have been to. The characters even stayed one night at a motel that I've stayed at, which was a fun to read. As far as the characters, I had a little trouble connecting with them. The story starts so fast that I felt like the road trip began before I knew who these people were, and the connections between them didn't always make sense to me. 
 
However, the author does a great job with descriptive language and she touches on a lot of sensitive topics that give this book a bit of a dark, gritty tone. And perhaps that's why I didn't connect with it personally at this moment in time, but it might be perfect for another reader. I can see why someone might feel themselves represented in this story in ways that can be overlooked in other Christian fiction.
 
I hope you'll give The Road Before Us a try if you like road trip adventure stories and deep tales that aren't afraid to look at real topics.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Of Love and Treason


Step back into the time of the early church, when it was dangerous to express faith in Christ. This story, set in Rome in AD 270, tells about a young pastor named Valentine who was willing to risk everything to do what he believed was right.

Iris is a blind baker who has tried praying to every god to restore the sight that was lost to her through an accident. After a random meeting with Valentine, who promises to pray to his God on her behalf, Iris begins to see flashes of vision. Will her sight be restored? Who is this God who has powers that others do not?

As threats against Christians begin to press in on all sides, Valentine and Iris must both choose how willing they are to follow the Lord, or if the cost is too great in such perilous times.

I started reading this book in January, and unfortunately had to keep putting it aside for other books that I had a deadline to read, and then it was hard to get back again. I just didn't quite connect with the characters and found several aspects of their actions or the storyline to be a little unbelievable. That said, I did always come back to it, and my favorite parts were the glimpses into the early church. I don't know a whole lot about Rome at this time period, but I thought the author did a good job setting the scene and bringing in interesting historical details.

This retelling of St. Valentine's story is the author's debut novel, and I look forward to reading her next book when it is released.

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Loyally Luke


I have adored every minute of this Skymarian journey that the Edgewood family has been on! From Authentically, Izzy to Positively, Penelope and now onto Loyally, Luke, these cousins have brought so much delight into my literary world.

Handyman Luke returns to Skymar to work on a remodeling project for one of the countryside orphanages. While there, he meets "Ellie," a beautiful and somewhat uptight young woman—who he has no idea is actually Princess Elliana. Luke sees someone who needs a friend, and is especially happy to meet a woman who has never watched a Hallmark movie.

Princess Elliana is about to reenter royal life after taking a lengthy sabbatical to recover from a string of poor choices. She's determined to do better and serve her country with single-minded determination. Luke is a breath of fresh air—not only because he doesn't know her past, but also because of his straightforward view of the world.

Luke and Ellie's friendship and attraction grows, but the day comes when her identity is revealed. Is there a way they could be together? Luke has a business and loved ones in North Carolina. Ellie is a princess of a European country. How could things ever work out?

If you like Hallmark movies or have an appreciation for warm and rugged heroes, this book is for you! I hope you'll check out this series and come to love Izzy, Penelope, Luke, and company as much as I do. The audiobook is tons of fun as well.

I received a copy of the book from the author and the audiobook from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.


Protector


Novalise has grown up separated, an outcast from Susa's society. Her people, known as the Alphanites, have hidden in the mountains since refusing to abide by Susa's registration laws. But when Susa's new king is looking for women to join his elite bodyguards called the Protectors, Novalise is conscripted into the competition, forced to fight against nano-enhanced young women who possess super-human powers.

Zadien feels unready and unworthy to ascend to the throne after his father's murder. As he deals with anxiety, he relies heavily upon his advisors as he begins reigning over his kingdom. He needs new Protectors, and even though he has misgivings about a grand competition to sort through the candidates, he agrees to it.

As Novalise navigates the world of the Citadel and the competition among women who are not like her, she hears the voice of Alpha in her head, guiding her. She comes to surprising realizations about who are friends and who are enemies.

This retelling of the Biblical Esther story mixes a dystopian world with a little bit of American Ninja Warrior and a hint of Hunger Games. It was interesting to see different ways a story I am so familiar with translated into a completely different setting.

For me, the book was slow getting started, and I had trouble with Novalise's attitude at times. The book also used a trope that is a personal pet peeve of mine, which I realize is totally my hang-up and not the fault of the book. However, Novalise grows a lot through the course of the novel and once the story gets going there is much to draw the reader in. Action. Faith. Romance, both requited and unrequited. Though the book does come to a conclusion, there are plenty of threads left hanging for the second book in the series. I can't wait to see how everything comes together!

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.
The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple 


Is the Briarwood Teardrop sapphire really a piece torn from the sky? It certainly attracts enough attention for it. And when the gem goes missing, bad things happen.

Private investigator Peter Driscoll has been hired to return the sapphire, suspected to be in the possession of silent film actress Lily Temple. But Peter becomes convinced that Lily isn't the one who stole it, though there is definitely more to her than meets the eye.

Lily has gone by many names over the years, but now she's come home to St. Ann's Well Gardens, where her best childhood memories were made. She's longing for the one who made her a lover of stories and fairly tales. Will he come when she sends out a signal for him?

The imagery of a woman in a garden longing for home and belonging is strong and striking, and I appreciated the spiritual thread of the story. I found Lily to be an interesting character, but I was continually confused by her. How old is she supposed to be? Where did she learn to do all that she is able to do? What is the elusive truth about her? Though there's always a hint of mystery about Joanna Davidson Politano's stories, and usually trying to figure things out is one of the things I like best about them, but this one left me wanting a bit. Since I could never grasp Lily, I could never grasp the story.

But maybe other readers will not have this issue. There's so much to enjoy, from the real history woven in to the steady hero to the truth of God calling us always to Himself. If you like a book that presents a puzzle to solve, The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple could be for you!

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Be Still My Soul


 Carsten is seeking to live an honest life after being raised by a thieving father. Despite his track record since turning to the Lord, the people in town are still somewhat distrustful of him, and when he is falsely accused of stealing, too many are quick to believe the report.
 
Since the sheriff won't do anything to prove his innocence, Carsten and his friends set out to run their own investigation. Along the way they discover there's more to this crime than first meets the eye. Will they be able to take down a whole network of criminals?
 
I've seen other reviewers mention this is a young adult story, though it's not marketed as such as far as I can tell. A young adult audience makes sense, as the storyline is rather simplistic, and characters are decidedly either good or bad. There are also consistency issues in the narrative that took away from my enjoyment of the story.
 
However, the best part of this novel by far is the way Carsten earnestly desires to obey God and turns to Him regularly through Bible reading, prayer, and putting God's Word into practice. This is a valuable example to readers no matter their age.
 
If you enjoy western stories with a strong faith theme, I recommend Be Still, My Soul. The audiobook is done well and it's easy to imagine this is Carsten's own voice telling his story.
 
I received my copy of the audiobook from JustRead Tours. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Love in Tandem


Music teacher Charlotte is in a time of crisis. Her ex-fiance is getting married and her music program needs funding. When an extremely random meeting and massive misunderstanding lead to her being mistaken as her ex-fiance's brother's girlfriend, Charlotte is paralyzed about how to play off a situation with so many emotional layers.

Zach has always carried a little flame for Charlotte, but he knows she's very attached to her small town life and that would never jive with his outdoorsman, see-the-world self. But when their families seem to need them to keep their charade of a relationship ongoing, and a chance to raise money for Charlotte's school comes along, Zach finds himself helpless to do anything but sign on.

That's how an adventurous guy and a very-not-adventurous girl end up taking off on a 500-mile bicycle ride. They don't know it now, but they'll be beset by weather, wild hogs, theft, and helpful and not-so-helpful strangers. Can they keep up their fake relationship that has very real sparks? Or will this drive them further apart than before?

This zany adventure had me laughing out loud all along the way. I loved all the crazy worst case scenarios they ran into, and I especially loved that this romcom isn't only surface deep. There's a thread of faith woven through to remind us that God has been with us all along, even the hard stretches where we didn't see Him. Turns out that walking with Him is the greatest adventure of all.

If you enjoy a good romantic comedy, I highly recommend Love in Tandem. Zach and Charlotte will pedal right off the pages and into your heart.
 A Noble Scheme
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Gemma Parks does not want to forgive Graham Wharton. That much is clear in the first book of the series, though we were left guessing the reason. Now, as Gemma and the other Imposters take a case to restore a kidnapped child to his family, she and Graham are forced to work closely together.

Graham wants to win Gemma back, but the priority has to be the missing boy. From one grand manor house to another, the whole group must rely on their training and their alter egos to solve the case before it's too late.

This story weaves from intrigue to emotion and back again. I'd heard that there was a twist that readers won't see coming, and that was definitely true for me. That makes the story go from interesting to compelling as you turn page after page to see how things will resolve. 

There's also a strong faith theme as characters ask tough questions and process grief. I thought this was perhaps the greatest faith theme Roseanna has woven into any of her novels, and it was extremely well-done.

I'd recommend A Noble Scheme for all fans of historical suspense, especially if you don't mind some emotion along the way.

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.


About the Author

Roseanna M. White

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award winning author who has long claimed that words the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she's homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books...to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.

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About The Book

A Noble Scheme

A Noble Scheme
 
The Imposters, 2
1909

In the opulent and perilous world of high society's most elite—and most dangerous—families, two investigators must set aside their broken hearts to uncover the truth.

Gemma Parks is known to the London elite as G.M. Parker, a columnist renowned for her commentary on the cream of society. Behind the scenes, she uses her talents to aid the Imposters in their investigations by gathering intel at events and providing alibis for the firm's members through her columns. Yet her clandestine work would be more exhilarating if it weren't for the constant presence of the gentleman who broke her heart.

Graham Wharton has never had eyes for anyone but Gemma, and she left his heart in tatters when she walked away from him. When the Imposters take on a new job to recover a kidnapped boy mistaken for his aristocratic cousin, Graham is determined to use the time with Gemma to not only restore the missing boy, but to also win back the only woman he's ever loved. As they trace the clues laid out before them, Graham and Gemma must devise a noble scheme to save the boy's life and heal their hearts.
 
 
 
Emma's Hero


After a season of grief and bad choices, Emma Reynolds finds herself pregnant and alone in a new city. When her 20-week ultrasound reveals that her baby boy has a birth defect incompatible with life, Emma must choose whether to continue carrying her baby or cherish the short life he will live once he is born.

Emma's Hero is the story of not only Emma but also paramedic Ben and struggling high school senior Mason. Together their lives intertwine with baby Theo's in a way that none of them expected. They're challenged to look deeper, dream bigger, and love to a greater degree.

This book really touched my heart because when I was 13 my family lost a baby to a similar birth defect. Theo's story rang with authenticity since I have experienced the same with my sister. 

I am not going to spoil the story, but I will tell you that this book is about life and hope. It is hard to read about a sick baby, but Emma's Hero offers us the chance to walk in the characters' shoes and learn about the value of life along the way. If you need spoilers before you feel comfortable reading the book, please message me and I will tell you privately. No matter the outcome, this is a book that has the potential to change lives. Maybe even yours!

What a well-done debut for Carrie Walker. I look forward to more from her!

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.
If the Boot Fits


If you love fairy tale retellings, make sure you check out this Cinderella-inspired story. With a little gender-swapping and a lot of Texas flair, you'll be swept along on this epic adventure.

Samantha Dearing returns from finishing school in Boston, ready to settle back into the ranch life she loved as a girl. Much to her dismay, her father seems intent on marrying her off to a wealthy suitor as soon as possible, but Samantha isn't going to stand for this.

Asher Ellis is dismayed to learn his stepmother has been evicted from her home, and he sneaks into Samantha's ball in order to search her father's home for evidence of corruption toward his tenants. When things go wrong, he ends up making a hasty escape and leaving a boot behind in the process.

In order to resettle into her community, Samantha begins to get involved in charity work. This leads to her tutoring Asher's younger brother and helping a friend who has fallen into dire circumstances. This allows Samantha's personality to come to life and show the compassionate side of her passionate nature. But it soon becomes clear that someone is out to cause her serious harm. Who could it be? Asher becomes one of her protectors as they try to find the man with ill intentions.

This book has strong faith themes and encourages helping those in need. Overall, I felt the story was a little lacking for me personally. I never quite connected to the characters, and there's a journal that is discovered toward the end of the book that contained a twist I really wish had been handled differently. Was it necessary? It was pretty disappointing to me. However, the Cinderella aspects of the story were top notch and often brought a smile to my face. It was fun to find familiar names and see classic scenes playing out in a unique way.

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.

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