Sandra Merville Hart's Blog, page 2
November 5, 2025
Honor’s Mountain Promise by Misty Beller
Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart
Hearts of Montana, Book 4
Aaron Long’s goal is to drive his freight wagon through Montana Territory before the first big snow of the season. He happens upon a terrible accident that left another freight driver dead and a pregnant widow too close to delivering her child for comfort. A two-week trip will get her to the nearest doctor. His newly-found faith will not allow him to leave her on the side of the road to wait for the next wagon, as Mrs. Barlowe suggests. Several days might pass before that happened.
Katie Barlowe figures she has another month before her baby is born. Her husband was buried on the ranch they’d tried to start. All she wants is to get to a doctor and then head back to Pennsylvania to raise her child alone. Should she trust Aaron to get her there? The handsome driver who walked with a limp seemed trustworthy enough, yet Katie has learned that few men deserved her trust.
The author whirled me right into the story from the first page. The pair face one challenge after another. Each difficulty threatens their journey.
Surprising twists kept me turning pages. This is the first book in the series that I’ve read. The author did a great job summarizing earlier important events that affected this story and then plunging back into the action.
Well-written romance. This is not the first book I’ve read by this author, and it won’t be the last.
Recommended for readers of inspirational historical romances.
November 3, 2025
Fudge Brownies Recipe
by Sandra Merville Hart
I thought I’d share a few of my favorite recipes around the Christmas holidays. My sister shared this yummy recipe with me when we were teenagers. I’ve made these brownies for my family numerous times.
Ingredients
½ cup butter or margarine
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Melt butter and chocolate in a medium saucepan over medium heat. When melted, remove from heat and let it cool for at least two minutes.
Stir in sugar.
Beat eggs in a separate bowl and then combine them with the chocolate mixture. Stir well. Add pure vanilla extract and stir. Add flour and walnuts, if desired, and mix well.
Prepare an 8×8 baking pan with cooking spray. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 20 minutes. Allow brownies to cool and then cut into 16 squares.
Since the entire recipe is made in one saucepan, the cleanup is minimal. It’s almost as quick to prepare as a boxed mix. My sister is a talented cook. I’m so happy that she shared this recipe with me!
I’d love to hear if you try this. Enjoy!
October 30, 2025
Vicksburg Didn’t Celebrate Independence Day for About a Century
by Sandra Merville Hart
Learning that citizens of Vicksburg, Mississippi, didn’t celebrate our country’s Independence Day for about a century prompted me to dig into the city’s history during the Civil War.
What I discovered so touched me that I had to write about it—and it required three books to tell the story. The main characters are fictional…the historical backdrop is real.
Vicksburg’s strategic location on bluffs along the mighty Mississippi River during the war was often a topic among leaders of both sides. Confederate President Jefferson Davis sent troops early in the war to protect the city and keep Union ships from passing on the river. More troops were sent as the focus on Vicksburg increased from the Union army.
President Abraham Lincoln felt that “Vicksburg is the key” to winning the war. Union General Ulysses S. Grant was determined to capture the city.
That was easier said than done.
The Union Navy bombarded the city for sixty-seven days from May to July of 1862. Confederate soldiers fired cannons on the fleet while citizens hunkered in hastily dug cave shelters. One battered Confederate ship called the Arkansas possessed enough power to convince the Union fleet to head south on July 27th.
The defeat only whetted Grant’s desire to take Vicksburg by force. The following year, Union ships once again attacked the town for weeks from the Mississippi River—this time while the Union army battled the Confederate army surrounding Vicksburg.
The surprising discoveries found while digging into Vicksburg’s history inspired books four, five, and six in my Spies of the Civil War Series.
Streams of Courage, Book 4, begins before the war starts in early 1861 and goes to the fall of 1862.
River of Peril, Book 5, tells the story of Felicity and Luke. It begins in December of 1862.
Tides of Healing, the sixth and final book, tells the story of Vicksburg resident Savannah Adair and Union First Lieutenant Travis Lawson, who was among those who march into the city to seize control on July 4, 1863. Their first meeting begins with fireworks—and not the kind typically associated with an Independence Day celebration.
Beginning in 1861, three fictional heroine friends living in Vicksburg, Mississippi, at the start of the Civil War are each affected in different ways by the events of the Civil War as their city becomes a target for the Union Army.
Streams of Courage, Book 4, Julia and Ash fall in love against her mother’s wishes. Townspeople accuse Ash of cowardice because he doesn’t become a soldier in the Confederate army. He begins spying for the North in his Mississippi city, a dangerous undertaking that puts his family and Julia’s family at risk. The story starts before the first battle in early 1861 and goes to the fall of 1862.
Tragedy strikes one of the friends, Savannah, in Streams of Courage, Book 4 in my Spies of the Civil War Series. This feisty, spirited Southern belle has been chomping at the bit to tell her story. She gets her chance as our heroine in Tides of Healing , Book 6!
Here’s the back cover blurb for Tides of Healing:
A Southern belle fights to reclaim her home, but will her spying destroy the Union officer she never meant to love?
Savannah Adair has endured the unimaginable, hiding in a cave while her beloved Vicksburg was under siege. With the city now occupied by Union soldiers, Savannah cannot stand by and do nothing. So when one of the gaunt, half-starved Confederate prisoners asks her to spy for the South, she can’t refuse the chance to take back her home.
First Lieutenant Travis Lawson takes pride in the Union army’s hard-fought victory, but he quickly realizes that the challenges of rebuilding and reconciliation are just beginning . . . and not everyone is appreciative of changes he’s making. Namely, the fiery and alluring Savannah Adair. Despite their differing loyalties and the societal divide between them, Travis cannot deny the growing feelings he has for her. When he is tasked with finding Southern spies in Vicksburg and he captures a female spy, Travis is forced to consider that the woman he’s beginning to love may be the enemy.
I hope that you enjoy the whole series!
Sources
Bearss, Edwin C. with Hills, J. Parker. Receding Tide: Vicksburg and Gettysburg, the Campaigns that Changed the Civil War, National Geographic, 2010.
“Vicksburg National Military Park,” National Park Service, 2025/02/09 https://www.nps.gov/vick/index.htm.
October 29, 2025
An Amish Baby in Her Arms by Patricia Johns
Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart
An Amish Chocolate Shop Brides Novel
Miriam Yoder, widow, is reminded of all she lost when a newborn baby is left outside the candy shop where she and Zaak, her brother-in-law, are closing for the day. A terrible storm prompts him to drive baby Ivy and Miriam to her grandfather’s.
The storm worsens. Zaak has no choice but to stay her grandfather’s home to wait it out. He has loved Miriam since before his brother, who hadn’t been good to her, married her. Zaak avoids her as much as possible because she doesn’t like him. Little Ivy brings them together.
This story wasn’t predictable for me. In fact, I wasn’t sure how they’d overcome the challenges between them. I fell in love with characters.
Sweet baby Ivy tugged at my heart. I was anxious to see what happened with her.
I enjoyed the story.
October 27, 2025
Cream of Beef Soup Recipe
by Sandra Merville Hart
I have often used canned cream of chicken soups and bullion in casseroles and crockpot recipes. It never occurred to me to make this from scratch until I watched a chef prepare it on a cooking show.
I tweaked some recipes until I was happy with the results. What a game-changer this has been for me in the past year!
This homemade soup has enhanced the flavor of every dish that I’ve used it in—all of them. I highly recommend it.
The soup takes about 20 minutes to prepare. I usually cook it while making the main dish.
Stock, which is water enriched by the food cooked in it, is an important ingredient in numerous soups. Homemade stock brings full-bodied flavor to recipes. Here’s a recipe for homemade chicken stock: https://sandramervillehart.com/2017/05/15/preparing-chicken-stock/.
Chicken stock can be substituted for the beef stock when preparing chicken-based recipes. Turkey stock (or chicken stock if you can’t find turkey) can be substituted when preparing turkey-based recipes. In the same way, use vegetable stock for cream of celery. (When I next need cream of celery soup, I’ll simmer a celery stalk in the vegetable stock for a few minutes to draw out that flavor.)
Ingredients
½ cup butter
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups of beef stock
2 cups of milk
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Stir in flour. Once combined, add the stock and milk. Stir until blended. Cook over medium-low heat until thick and creamy, about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
This recipe makes 4 cups of cream soup. If your casserole recipe calls for 1 can of soup, prepare half the recipe.
What a game-changer this has been for me in the past year!
This homemade soup has enhanced the flavor of every dish that I’ve used it in—all of them. Everyone I’ve served it to has noticed the difference. I highly recommend it.
It’s also good when served over rice or as the base for creamy soups. Enjoy!
October 22, 2025
Home Away from Home by Penny Frost McGinnis
Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart
Abbott Island Series, Book 2
Marigold Hayes lost her mother as a teenager, at the same time that her father went missing. Now in her fifties, she still wants nothing more than to find her dad. She’s never married. Her relationship with Johnny Papadakis is the longest she’s known, yet what if he leaves like her father did?
Johnny loves Marigold. His Greek restaurant keeps him busy while he waits for her trust in him to build. He also wants to strengthen bonds with his adult daughter, a relationship that his ex-wife had tried to destroy.
This story is told through multiple viewpoints. The villain had me shaking my head. Believable characters made me care about their journey. Unexpected twists kept me turning pages.
Surprises await the characters in this small-town island setting. The setting was one of my favorite parts, as I got to know other residents I might see in upcoming novels.
I’m enjoying this series.
October 15, 2025
Finding Juniper by Cindy Thomson
Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart
Patrick Doyle thought he was doing the right thing by fighting for Ireland during World War I, yet he’s treated as an enemy when he returns home, especially by his pregnant girlfriend’s father. Paddy asks Roisin to flee with him to the United States. She refuses. Fearing for his life, he leaves despite his desire to raise his child.
This time-slip novel actually begins in 1950, when he receives a letter from his and Roisin’s daughter, Juniper. It’s written in childish handwriting, and Juniper would now be 30.
Patrick had married an American, and they had a daughter who is now in her twenties. He has never returned to Ireland. He never met Juniper, whom he is certain had died many years before. Is the letter real?
This multi-layered tragic story is told from several viewpoints. The action slips from 1950 to the past in a masterful way. Some parts were so tragic that they were difficult to read, yet it was impossible to put down.
Believable, flawed characters drew me into their plight. This book is a page turner.
This well-written, gripping story tugged at my emotions.
Recommended for readers of historical fiction and Irish history.
I will look for more books by this author.
October 9, 2025
ACFW New Releases October 2025
October 2025 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website
Biblical:
Rescued Heart: The Story of Sarah by Angela Hunt — A master of biblical research, Angela Hunt delivers a series starter that transports readers to the Old Testament world of Sarah and Abraham, making this novel a perfect read for those who love Francine Rivers, Mesu Andrews, Connilyn Cossette, and Jill Eileen Smith. (Biblical/Historical from Bethany House)
Leading Philippi by Jenifer Jennings — In the raging sea of fear, Epaphroditus finds his faith. (Biblical/Historical, Independently Published)
Contemporary Romance:
The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter — She inherits the bookshop of her dreams . . . But she has to run it with the ex she vowed never to speak with again. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson])
Trying to Save Christmas by Dawn Kinzer — A new teacher trying to save Christmas for a grieving student and his guardian brother risks losing her heart to them both. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
A Heart to Protect by Judith McNees — Can two grieving hearts find healing with each other…and God? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Christmas in Granite Harbor by Candice Sue Patterson — Small-town traditions, a Maine Coon, and a decades-old mystery knit hearts together this Christmas. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Who Stirs Up the Sea by Deborah Raney — So many secrets between them. But when the truth comes out, will it drive them apart? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Two Hearts, One Piano by Catherine Richmond — Ten years ago, rock star Alan Wolfe trashed Maren’s life. Now his brother is on her doorstep, asking about the baby. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Cozy Mystery:
Troubled Truffles by Leslie Lantrip — Ruby Starr breathes a sigh of relief that all is well in the whimsical town of Iris Cove, but while making a routine bakery delivery, she’s shocked to discover a dead body inside the new bookshop. She assures everyone that she will never again be involved in sleuthing, but with clues all around, will her inquisitive mind be able to comply? (Cozy Mystery from Trilogy Christian Publishing)
The Last Scam by Jean Rezab — Courtney’s lifelong dream is finally within her grasp, but when a guest turns up dead during the inn’s very first week, her perfect plans turn into chaos. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)
General Contemporary:
Tangled Roots by Jessica Brodie — When newspaper editor Tiff Steadman’s ex-convict brother returns seeking reconciliation, she must choose between protecting the respectable life she’s built and risking everything to embrace the messy grace of family forgiveness. (General Contemporary from Valor Publishing Group)
The Bridge by Shanna Hatfield — The fate of strangers intertwines when a man contemplating suicide commandeers a bridge on Christmas Eve, forcing everyone into an unexpected detour from their holiday plans. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)
Every Life Treasured by Hannah Hood Lucero, Aubrey Reiss Taylor, and Jennifer Q. Hunt – Three Novellas about the value of life. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)
The Song Awakens by Linda Sammaritan — One moment of temptation. Years of separation. How much of the truth does she dare to confess? (General Contemporary/Women’s Fiction from Winged Publications)
General Historical:
To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgau — Inspired by a true story, “To Outwit Them All” is told from the perspective of the only woman in George Washington’s Revolutionary group of citizen spies known as the Culper Ring. (General Historical from Iron Stream Media)
Historical Romance:
A Heart To Treasure by Dienece Darling — The vicar’s son and the draper’s daughter have fought against all odds to be together, but with less than a fortnight to their wedding day, a coming storm will shatter everything. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
A Very English Christmas by Marguerite Gray, Carole Lehr Johnson, and Carrie Turansky — Celebrate the Season with three timeless tales inspired by Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Beatrix Potter. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Love on the Horizon by Penny Zeller — Return to Horizon, Idaho, for Timothy Shepherdson’s story and meet newcomer, Mags, in this tender romance that reminds us that God is the author of new beginnings. (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)
Military Suspense:
Tick, Tick, Tick … Boom by Felicia Ferguson — With her marriage to clinical psychologist Matt in shambles, Army CID Officer Gabby Carmichael wakes up to a bomb threat. They reluctantly work together to find the bomber, but as pressure mounts, which will explode first? The bomb or their marriage? (Military Suspense from Salt & Light Publishing)
Novella (Romance):
Christmas on the Islands by Annette M. Irby — Washington Island Christmas series novellas all in one place! Visit Puget Sound and the Salish Sea islands in this series of holiday novellas! Enjoy getting to know new characters, with some cameo visits from previous friends. Here you’ll find heart-warming scenes, layered family dynamics, romance, and hope in Jesus. (Romance Novella from Prism Effect Publishing)
A Christmas Inheritance by Myra Johnson, Delia Latham, and Tanya Stowe — Three Christmas stories in one! “His Christmas Refuge:” He came home to leave it all behind. She’s convinced he’ll run again. “A Montana Christmas Promise:” He gave everything to the land. She came only to let it go. “The Prodigal Preacher’s Christmas Homecoming:” A story of redemption, brotherhood, and love reborn under the gentle hand of grace. (Romance Novella, Independently Published)
Romantic Suspense:
Mistletoe and Malice by Lori DeJong — He’s sworn to protect her life … but guarding his heart may be his biggest challenge. (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)
Fatal Past by Sarah Hamaker — When a pediatrician foils an attempted child abduction, she’s thrust into a dangerous game in which she must rely on the help of her former boyfriend to stay alive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Defending You by Robin Patchen — She stumbled onto a deadly secret, and the man she once wronged is the only one who can keep her alive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Texas Christmas Cover-Up by Terri Reed — A widowed FBI profiler must turn to her ex, a commanding Police Chief to protect her child and solve a cold case. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:
Dust and Ashes by Demi Griffin — Even mistakes and failures were folded into the king’s plan! (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
Unexpected by Kimberly Keagan — The heirs of Denwall Department Stores find unexpected love In the glittering era of the Gilded Age. (Historical Romance)
Where Secrets End by Rebecca Lake — One man’s obsession. One woman’s past. One chance to survive. (Romantic Suspense)
But There Were Signs by Georgia Curtis Ling — When one of their own is found dead, four pastors’ wives–turned amateur sleuths are playing a deadly game of cat and mouse with a suspected killer in Appalachia. (Contemporary Suspense)
The Dreamer by Jenny Marcelene — To the Ends is an international adventure series helping children ages 6-10 cultivate a biblical worldview and spark prayer for the nations. (Children’s/Middle Grade Chapter Book)
Escaping the Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks — On the run through the mountains— with only each other to trust. (Romantic Suspense)
The Realm: The Awakening Begins by K Ross — In a world where dreams are more real than not, and harsh realities collide with visions of eternity, only one god can rule. (Supernatural Suspense)
October 8, 2025
His Wagon Train Sweetheart by Catherine Kennedy
Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart
Introduction to Walton Valley Series
Georgiana Walton has been raised by her father to ride with wagon trains. Her mother died during childbirth. George longs to wear dresses. She wants a permanent home, but marriage and a family of her own are only dreams.
Dr. Elijah Mitchell has a job waiting for him in Santa Fe, where he plans to give his mother a fresh start after his father’s death. Although the prickly George captures his attention, there can be no future for them. Something besides the job is pulling him toward Santa Fe.
I quickly began to care about the heroine’s difficulties. Her character was believable and unique in the story. I loved how the author introduced not only the main characters but also a new community. I’m interested in seeing what happens in the series.
This was an easy, quick read that I enjoyed. I will look for the first book in the series.
October 1, 2025
The Last Memory by Kathleen Rouser
Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart
Part of The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides Collection
Mallory has no memories of her past. The ship she’d been aboard, the Mallory, sank, and she was the sole survivor. Cal Waterson had saved her and brought her to his lighthouse to recuperate. Lily, his sweet daughter, and Cal’s Aunt Ada tend her head wound. But Mallory wonders who she is and what her life had been like.
Although Cal has grown accustomed to loneliness since losing his wife in childbirth, he can’t deny being drawn to Mallory. Lily wants her for a mother, yet Cal tries to deny his heart while waiting to learn her identity.
I was drawn into the story from the first page. Lovable characters—including a sweet little girl who is desperate for a mother—tugged at my heart. I loved that Mallory’s artistic talent brought glimpses of her old life.
I couldn’t put the story down.
This historical novella is a sweet, nostalgic story. I will look for more stories by this author.
