Julie Arduini's Blog, page 3
June 24, 2025
Book Review:Heart’s Promise by Linda Hoover
Welcome back to Jacob and Julia’s Iowa farm.
In 1893, their son Justin is eleven. and daughter Annaliese is ten. When Jacob and Julia adopted Annaliese as an infant, they were told God had a special plan for her. As Annaliese grows up, she wonders if her purpose will be world-changing.
Julia’s old friend, Edward Harrington, comes to visit from England, along with his wife and son, Robbie. Their time at the farm is the beginning of a like/hate relationship and later something more between Robbie and Annaliese. When the families traveled to San Francisco in 1900, a shocking revelation from Edward’s wife could change everything, beginning with taking Annaliese to England.
If this is God’s plan, Annaliese is disappointed. It’s nothing like she imagined, and her heart’s desire is to go to veterinary college. This could mean a very different future for her.
***
Linda Hoover is a critique partner and friend whom I admire. She writes about a historical period as if she had lived it herself and is at ease telling us about it. Since that’s not the case, I can attest she is a gifted writer. Heart’s Desire is a wonderful series, and Heart’s Promise is another gem.
Although this can be read as a standalone, I recommend you read the series. Many characters are present throughout, and you want to get to know each one as they evolve. This is definitely the case in Heart’s Promise.
Annaliese is growing up, and so is the world around her. Industry, big city life, the literal world is there for Annaliese to experience. She is intelligent and full of compassion, and these attributes seem to clash with a culture where men dominate.
Robbie has been part of Annaliese’s circle since childhood, and as he returns as a young man, he sees Annaliese as more than a friend. The problem is that her very outspoken thoughts and dreams have no place in his academic mind. I love how Linda created conflict between the two.
Heart’s Promise contains much more than a well-written Gilded Age romance. She continues to develop the original characters such as Julia, Facob, and Edward. There are plot twists throughout that push the story forward and give Annaliese a lot to consider when it comes to her future.
Although this can be read and enjoyed any time of year, what a beautiful summer release. I can imagine readers on a porch with lemonade drinking in all that Annaliese encounters in this moving story. Not only will you turn the pages to a satisfying ending, I believe you will have a new favorite author in Linda Hoover.
June 16, 2025
The Other Side of the Fairy House by June Foster & Kelly Cordova
One of the Stories Behind the Story – Jason
Last spring, my daughter Kelly and I went to Gatlinburg, Tennessee to do research for our new book, The Other Side of the Fairy House. Besides absorbing the vibes of the Great Smoky Mountains, we explored the real-life location where our story takes place—the former Voorheis property and estate. But in our story, you’ll find Mr. Voorheis’ name is Robert Vanderheim.
Louis Voorheis was a wealthy Yale graduate from Cincinnati in the early 1900s. He wanted a private location where he and his wife could escape the modern world. Thus, he built a rustic style mansion on a 38-acre site. We patterned our story around his life.
The site also featured a stone spring house about which many told stories of fairies and fireflies that paid visits during the winter months. Many tourists go there today, though some have trouble finding it. Fortunately, Kelly had watched a YouTube video which helped us find the spot.
Today the building houses the state fire service. As we walked in front of the building, one of the service employees walked out. A young man named Jason. He told us some fascinating tales. One was about an evening when he heard mysterious flute music coming from somewhere nearby. Perhaps from the woods. He claims the story is true.
So, when you read our Christmas tale, watch for a young man named Jason and the sound of a flute emanating from the forest. You’ll be surprised at what happens afterwards.
About The Other Side of the Fairy House:
The Other Side of the Fairy House
Madison Montgomery’s dreams come true when her boss at Cliffside Realty Group sends her to the picturesque tourist destination of Travisburg, Tennessee, just days before Christmas. Her task? Photograph their new listing, an enchanting estate owned by eighty-two-year-old Ana Thatcher, who can no longer manage the historic property. The original owner, Robert Vanderheim, a wealthy 1930s entrepreneur, adorned the grounds with delightful stone basins and fountains. Madison’s mission is simple: capture the estate’s beauty and, if possible, uncover the mythical Fairy House.
But when Madison discovers she must work with drone operator Ben Taylor, her high school nemesis, the assignment takes an unexpected turn. The snowy drive down becomes a challenge when a flat tire derails their journey. Ben, now a ranger in Tennessee’s Donaldson Gap State Park with dreams of becoming a US National Parks designer, reluctantly joins the mission. As old tensions resurface, Madison and Ben are forced to confront their past.
A sudden accident in the forest leaves Madison unconscious, only to awaken to a bewildering sight: Ben in vintage attire, calling her “ma’am” as if they’ve never met. Has Madison slipped through time to Robert Vanderheim’s era, or is she trapped in a surreal dream?
In this heartwarming tale, Madison must navigate a world between past and present, discovering love and the true magic of Christmas along the way. Will she return to her familiar life, or find herself forever changed by the mysteries of Travisburg? And will Ben seize the chance to show Madison the man he’s become, and the love he’s always had for her?
The Other Side of the Fairy House is a charming holiday romance that will sweep you off your feet and remind you that sometimes, dreams really do come true.
An award-winning author, June Foster is also a retired teacher with a BA in Education and a MA in counseling. She is the mother of two and grandmother of ten. June began writing Christian romance in 2010. She penned her first novel on her Toshiba laptop as she and her husband traveled the US in their RV. Her adventures provide a rich source of information for her novels. She brags about visiting a location before it becomes the setting in her next book.
To date, June has written over thirty contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels and novellas. She loves to compose stories about characters who overcome the circumstances in their lives by the power of God and His Word. June uses her training in counseling and her Christian beliefs in creating characters who find freedom to live godly lives. She’s published with Winged Publications. Visit June at www.junefoster.com to see a complete list of her books.
Kelly Cordova lives in Texas with her husband, Tom, where she homeschooled their six children. Before settling in El Paso, she and her husband served as missionaries in Peru. Kelly has a bachelor’s degree in photojournalism and a Master’s in public affairs journalism. Eliza’s Hope is Kelly’s debut novel.
June 1, 2025
June 2025 Fiction Finder New Releases
June 2025 New Releases
More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website
Children’s/ Picture Book:
If Jesus Came To My School by April Graney — A young girl learns how Jesus’s love can shine at school through her compassion, kindness, and inclusion. (Children’s Picture Book from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Penguin Random House])
Phooey Kerflooey vs the Battle Squirrel by Kristen Joy Wilks — Phooey Kerflooey has finally found a home of her own.
Too bad a raging squirrel found it first! (Children’s, Independently Published)
Something Wicked This Way Hums by Jennifer Lamont Leo — Return to charming Timber Coulee, Idaho, where amateur sleuth Amanda Parrish is about to discover that murder can strike a sour note even in the most harmonious of places. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)
Angel from the East by Barbara A. Curtis — Caleb Morgan has had everything stolen from him-his strength, the job he loved, even his good name. He’s determined to even the score with the man responsible, until he meets the captivating new owner of the Double E Ranch. Though he’s drawn to her compassion, he fears she may never see beyond his supposed wrongdoings, unless he can prove his innocence and reclaim his honor. Eliza Roberts is a teacher, not a rancher. But if she has any hope of selling the ranch she inherited from her grandfather and continuing on to her new life in California, she needs to restore it to some semblance of order. If only the man her grandfather advised her to trust wasn’t refusing to help her. When an offer of courtship arises from the current foreman, Eliza sees the practicality in the offer. So why does her heart keep wandering back to Caleb? And why can’t she shake the feeling that something’s not right at the Double E Ranch? Will she have the courage to follow the clues behind the strange mishaps at the Double E-and possibly embrace a different life than she imagined? (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)
Of Silver and Secrets by Michelle Griep — Buried underneath are truths bent on keeping them apart. . . . In 1889 Victorian England, Eva Inman is haunted by guilt over her parents’ deaths while struggling to care for her blind sister and manage her family’s crumbling estate. With the tax deadline looming, Eva’s situation looks dire until an ancient silver ring is unearthed on the property. Despite superstitions warning against disturbing the supposedly cursed acres, Eva’s need for funds ignites her curiosity about the potential of finding more buried relics. Cambridge professor Bram Webb must prove a legendary Christian Roman settlement exists, or he’ll risk exposing his uncle’s deteriorating memory and they’ll both lose their positions. Then Eva steps into his office with the prospect of an archaeological dig that might lead to the very evidence Bram requires–provided he and Eva can set aside painful memories of a time they would rather forget. As the dig forces the two to confront their pasts, the work becomes fraught with challenges that threaten Eva’s and Bram’s hopes, as well as the growing attraction between them. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])
Heart’s Promise Heart’s Desire by Linda Hoover — Welcome back to Jacob and Julia’s Iowa farm. The year is 1893. Their son Justin is now eleven. and daughter Annaliese is ten. When Jacob and Julia adopted Annaliese as an infant, they were told God had a special plan for her. As Annaliese grows up, she can’t help but wonder if her purpose will be world-changing. Julia’s old friend, Edward Harrington, comes to visit from England, along with his wife and son, Robbie. Their time at the farm is the beginning of a like/hate relationship and later something more between Robbie and Annaliese. When the families travel to San Francisco in 1900, a shocking revelation from Edward’s wife could change everything, beginning with taking Annaliese back to England with them. If this is God’s plan, Annaliese is disappointed. It’s nothing like she imagined, and her heart’s desire is to go to veterinary college. She must consider if this is truly God’s calling for her because her decision could mean a very different future. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Heart of Hope by Kimberly Keagan — One Philadelphia socialite, one man who broke her heart, and a town called Victory that might live up to its name. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Madison’s Mission by Susan G. Mathis — Madison Murray, the devoted maid to the legendary Louise Boldt, harbors a singular mission—to care for her ailing mistress while hiding her own painful past. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Emmett O’Connor, the distinguished foreman overseeing Boldt Castle’s extravagant construction. Their connection sparks with promise, yet the chasm of class difference and hidden secrets loom large. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Secrets of the Revolution by Megan Soja — Hannah Pierce is determined to keep her father‘s apothecary shop running, despite his failing health, the heavy burden of her mother’s recent death, and the mysterious disappearance of her brother. She’ll do whatever it takes to preserve her family’s legacy, including joining a dangerous ring of patriot spies…and falling for a revolutionary printer with a brave heart. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)
The Lawyer and the Laundress by Christine Hill Suntz — Canada, 1837. In a British colony on the brink of rebellion, widower and lawyer James Kinney bands together with laundress Sara O’Connor to save the life of his lonely little girl. (Historical Romance from Tyndale House)
To Love a Beast by Karen Witemeyer — Once known among New York’s elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses. Beauty & the Beast story in 1800’s Texas. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Rescued by Jerusha Agen — As the nanny of twin two-year-olds who lost their mother, Valena Greer wants to create a happy and safe home for the children. The kids must know they’re loved and protected—the opposite of her own unstable childhood. But when danger comes to her door, the illusion of safety is shattered. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Romeo by Jessica Ashley — A deadly secret, an unexpected love that could cost everything. Riley “Romeo” Hunt is an expert at finding those who don’t want to be found. When he’s hired to catch a notorious jewel thief responsible for a brutal murder, he never expects to find a beautiful woman caught in the middle. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Reframing Trust by Regina Rudd Merrick — FBI Special Agent Julia Rossi returns to Clementville to investigate signs of criminal activity linked to a case she’s struggling to leave behind. After losing her fiancé to infidelity and her partner to prison, trust has become a foreign concept. Can she trust her job, her instincts, or even her faith? Carpenter Eli Reno isn’t thrilled when his exploration of the tunnels underneath Clementville not only uncovers evidence of recent criminal activity but also forces him to work alongside the woman who broke his friend’s heart. As the two explore the dark tunnels, Eli battles his anger over his friend’s betrayal, while Julia fights to regain her footing in a world full of broken trust. But in the depths below, can they learn to rely on one another—and on God—to uncover the truth and find healing in each other’s hearts? (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)
Capturing You by Robin Patchen — In a town shrouded by secrets, a photographer and the reclusive heir of the Ballentine fortune join forces to unravel a deadly conspiracy. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Trinity Sands Beach Club by Deborah Sprinkle, Jen Dodrill, and Sharon H. Carpenter — What do a widow, a newly divorced woman, and a retired professor of art history have in common? They all came to Trinity Sands Island to find a simple life without any entanglements. But instead, they are each confronted with a mystery and another chance at romance. Will they be brave enough to face the possible dangers of solving a mystery and losing their hearts? This collection includes three novellas. (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)
Echoes of Darkness by Darlene L. Turner — The sleepy community of Kenorapeake Falls in northern Ontario seems like somewhere Constable Oaklynn Brock can finally outrun her violent past. That is, until she’s assigned to investigate a series of suspicious deaths. She can’t reveal that she knows how serial killers think because she grew up with one. Yet the eerie similarities between these murders and those committed by her father, known as the Suicide Slayer, hint at a copycat in their midst. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Haunting of Time by Demi Griffin — In the Age of Augury, Kairos, also known as Time, had grown weary of her role in playing both sides. With the departure of the Enchantress, she saw an opportunity to strengthen her alliance with Mortality. Possessing the ability to manipulate time, she would haunt Everlasting, siphoning time by stealing it from the citizens. As Kairos pieced together her plan, the King summoned his chosen Harbingers. This group of eleven seemingly unrelated individuals had been brought together by a divine entity known as Portent. They accepted the calling under one condition. They were explicitly instructed not to engage directly with Time. Their sole objective was to deliver the King’s message. If they succeeded in doing so, the Age of Augury would reach its anticipated conclusion. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
Felling Fury by F.D. Adkins — As Ray vows to protect the woman he is falling for, it may be Ray who is in danger. Will he allow his anger and resentment to destroy him, or will he heed God’s voice calling to him from the light of Sandy’s faith? (General Suspense)
The Memory Garden by Jessica Brodie — In the small Southern town she vowed to escape forever, a shattered journalist discovers that protecting a boy with secrets as haunting as her own might be her last chance at redemption. (General Contemporary)
Keepsake by Susan Page Davis — Stanna Waverly is cleaning out her grandmother’s attic when she finds an old love letter. It’s to Emma, her grandma, all right, and the writer is urging her to elope with him. But at the end of the letter, she stares at the signature. That’s not her grandfather’s name. (Contemporary Romance)
The Ties That Loose by Felicia Ferguson — Can you really trust God when life plummets out of your control? As she searches for a way to bring Chris home and he strives to stay alive, they each battle their family histories desperate to find God’s future for them both. (Military Suspense)
Portent by Demi Griffin — Short interactions that led to beautiful moments captured more than Traveler’s heart. They were the bridge to the discovery of his name. Once he found that, he realized his decision to be a part of the King’s plan or not had already been made for him. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy)
Across the Crying Sands by Jane Kirkpatrick — Based on a true story of the life of Mary Gerritse, wife, mother of four and the first woman to deliver the mail on the treacherous Oregon Coast in the late 1890s. (General Historical)
Judging Athena by Perrin Lovett — Judging Athena is an exciting foray into innocent, pure, and productive love. It is also a clarion call to return to the traditions of marriage, large families, and genteel society. (General Romance)
Sweet Double-Cross by Sally Jo Pitts — As bullets fly and bodies pile up, Trudy discovers Kirt is hiding his own secret. Amidst unexpected attraction and lethal betrayal, can the two survive this double-cross? (Romantic Suspense)
Surviving the Storm by Melanie D. Snitker — At an accident scene, Paramedic Curtis Whitman and EMT Aurora “Rory” Graham discover a gunshot victim and an absent driver. Rory’s unease intensifies when she spots a man watching her from the woods, followed by a barrage of gunfire. Now, a sinister stalker lurks, convinced Rory has witnessed too much. (Romantic Suspense)
His Liberating Flame by Ashley Thompson — She grew up in church and has never been in a relationship, he’s a prestigious model with a scarlet past in search of redemption. (Contemporary Romance)
The Oasis by Lorisa D. Wiedenheft — Ten-year-old Charly Harding has had a rough life. Her parents died in a car accident when she was five. She and her younger brother Matty moved three hours away to live with Granny, who is always strapped for cash. Then the unthinkable happens. One night, their double-wide trailer catches on fire and burns to the ground. (Children’s)
Shattered Peace by Julie McDonald Zander — A forgotten diary. A century-old secret. A town still haunted by its past when a peaceful parade turned deadly. A gripping time-slip novel inspired by true events. (Dual Time)
May 26, 2025
Forever Changed by Diana Leagh Matthews
Welcome! Today, it is my pleasure to introduce you to Danielle Davis from “Forever Changed.” Danielle, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me.
It’s my pleasure. I’m looking forward to our conversation.
As the story opens, you’re excited. What milestone are you reaching?
The story opens on opening night for The Magical Castle. This is my first leading role on Broadway and I’m so excited.
How long have you been working on your craft?
Forever, it seems. I began in local theater as a child and have been in New York City working as an actress for over a decade. For the last two years, I have been workshopping The Magical Castle. This means we have been rehearsing the show, making revisions and refinements before the show becomes a full, public production.
What throws a wrench into your plans?
As I walk off stage, my assistant informs me that my sister, Meghan, and brother-in-law, Trevor, have been killed in a terrible accident.
Tell me about Meghan and Trevor.
Meghan is a country girl at heart. She loves living in the country and being a wife and mother.
Trevor always loved farming and over the years has turned his farm into a prosperous business that allows the family to not only make a living but to also spend time together. He’s very entrepreneurial and has many different ventures he’s invested in.
How does this tragedy change your life?
I return to the small town of Ninety Six, South Carolina where my family is from. When I arrived, I discover that I’m now responsible for seven children, two grandmothers, a farm and a store.
Wait. What? What’s that like?
Overwhelming. I fought returning, wanting to return to my life. It felt as if I was stepping into someone else’s life, and I resented this turn of events. On top of that, I had to get to know everyone and deal with various attitudes and situations.
What do you learn from Granny and Grandma?
Of, I love them and they have taught me so much. Granny is almost 100 and still so sharp. At times she really challenges me.
Grandma is completely different as she’s living with advanced dementia. She relates best with the younger children. I’ve learned so much about childhood wonder from her, as well as how devastating Alzheimer’s disease can be on a family.
It’s very rare that a community comes together the way your community has. How did they help you?
I could never have survived those early months without the assistance of the neighborhood ladies that came aside to help me. They assisted with everything from caring for the children, cooking, housekeeping, and so much more.
They also helped me to grow as a person and to push me outside of my comfort zone. Without them I’m not sure I would have even known how to bond with the children.
What is this about a mysterious woman from the 1930s. What was that about?
Yes, Shell appears suddenly and unexpectedly. I have no idea how it really works but I can tell you that she’s been such a support. There are as many similarities in our situations and time periods as there are differences. She’s been an unexpected blessing for sure.
Caleb Donovan became a partner. How has he changed your life?
Caleb was Trevor’s best friend, but there’s so much more to him than being a farm hand. We surprisingly have a lot in common and become very good friends. Who knows what the future may hold for us.
What did you learn from your time on the farm?
There were so many lessons that I don’t have time to go into all of them. I’ll say that I had to learn to embrace the past, let go, and forgive. At times it seemed that one crisis after another kept assailing us and I wondered if I’d ever have an opportunity to catch my breath. Most of all I found love, a community, and a family that I never expected and didn’t even know that I need.
This is great. Thank you so much for sharing with us and taking the time to answer our questions.
It’s been my pleasure. I appreciate your interest in my story and I’ve enjoyed spending this time together.
To learn more, check out Danielle’s story in “Forever Changed.”
Link to Forever Changed: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F2DCBDQY
Blurb:
At the pinnacle of her Broadway career, Danielle Davis is savoring her success. Just as her dreams are now within grasp, tragedy forces her to return home to South Carolina.
Following the untimely deaths of her sister and brother-in-law, Danielle discovers she’s now responsible for seven children, two grandmothers, and a farm she knows nothing about.
When a young woman from the 1930s begins making mysterious appearances to her, Danielle embraces her as an unexpected confidant and encourager.
Can Danielle find the healing and support she desperately needs in her new roles?
Caleb Donovan put his soaring music career on hold after making a terrible mistake.
Following the loss of his best friends, he now guides Danielle as she learns about running a farm and caring for a family. Can Caleb find his own place amid the chaos?
Will Danielle and Caleb be able to discover the career and relational paths meant for them?
Can they learn how to let go of their painful pasts, and find it in their hearts to forgive, and move forward into an uncertain future?
Bio:
Diana Leagh Matthews has a heart for the hurting and shares God’s love through the written word and song. Her debut novel, Carol of the Rooms, was published in 2023 and was a Realm Award finalist and her second novel, Forever Changed, just released in April. Leagh (pronounced L-e-e), who lives in South Carolina with her spunky Maltese. For more information, visit her at DianaLeaghMatthews.com.
Social Media Links:
https://dianaleaghmatthews.com
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Diana-Leagh-Matthews/e/B07C17QJJ
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/DiLeaghMatthews
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/994850748295488
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dianaleaghmatthews/
X: https://X.com/dileaghmatthews
http://www.pinterest.com/dileaghmatthews/
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/9773997-diana-leagh
May 12, 2025
In Desperation by Linda Shenton Matchett
In Desperation
By Linda Shenton Matchett
Merriam Webster defines desperation as “a state of despair, typically one which results in rash or extreme behavior.” The saying “desperate times call for desperate measures” is attributed to Greek physician, Hippocrates based on a phrase from his writings.
Women in the last quarter of the 19th century could often find themselves in desperation situations. Life expectancy was short, and children often lost one or both parents at a young age. However, because of the laws, or lack thereof, single females had very few rights. They could be shuttled off to another male relative or someone assigned as guardian, and the man could make whatever decisions he wanted without regard to the girl’s interests or wants.
Even a woman in her “majority” had almost no rights. She couldn’t vote, own property independently, or enter into legal contracts without a male guardian. Access to higher education was also limited with many colleges not accepting women as students, or if they did, allowing them to attend class but not award a diploma at the end. Career opportunities were also limited with only certain jobs considered acceptable for women.
Life was slightly better for married women when America passed the Married Property Acts, a series of legislation that gave women greater control over their finances and property. One source indicates that the legislation came in three phases: allowing married women to own property, then to keep their own income, then to engage in business. Intriguingly, the laws advanced more quickly in the West.
My main character, Ivy Cregg, found herself in a desperation situation: her father could legally force her to marry a vile and despicable man, and she couldn’t do anything about it. Her response was for a desperate measure: to travel West as a mail-order bride. At least, she could choose her own groom using a reputable matchmaking service.
It is difficult to know how successful mail-order marriages were. Gallup polls didn’t exist back then. According to most reports, a large percentage of the marriages lasted a lifetime. But some couples experienced challenges with differing expectations or misunderstandings. Some women suffered abuse or neglect. More than a few marriages didn’t last for one reason or another. One account tells about a prospective bride being held up on the trip West, and she realized her husband was one of the bandits because of a tattoo on his wrist. She fled.
In all honesty, I’m not sure I have what it takes to be a mail-order bride. Do you?
About Ivy’s Inheritance:
Has she fled one untrustworthy man only to be stuck with another?
Ivy Cregg’s father is a gambler, but this time he’s gone too far. He loses his mining fortune and her along with it in a high-stakes poker game. Unwilling to go along with the deal, she hides out with a friend who tells her about Ms. Crenshaw, owner of the Westward Home & Hearts Mail-Order Bride Agency who is in town. The prospective groom is a wealthy man which seems like an answer to prayer until Ivy discovers he made his fortune in mining. Is he as untrustworthy as her father?
After emigrating to America to fight for the Union during their Civil War, Slade Pendleton moved West while working on the railroad, then headed to the plains of Nebraska to seek his fortune. He was one of the lucky ones and now has everything he could ever want. Except a wife. With the few women in the town already married, he sends for a mail-order bride. The woman arrives carrying the telegram that explains her need to flee, but now that she’s safe, she seems to have no interest in going through with the ceremony. Should he send her packing or try to convince her to stay?
Linda Shenton Matchett writes happily-ever-after historical Christian fiction about second chances and women who overcome life’s challenges to be better versions of themselves. She is a volunteer docent and archivist for the Wright Museum of WWII and a former trustee for her local public library. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Linda was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star-Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historical places all her life. She now makes her home in central New Hampshire where her favorite activities include exploring the outdoors and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.
Social Media Links:
Website/Blog: http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com
Facebook Reader’s Page: www.facebook.com/groups/lindashentonmatchettsreadersgroup/
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lindamatchett
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda-shenton-matchett
May 6, 2025
Book Review: An Early Spring by Joann Durgin + a Confession
Small-town charm and rediscovered dreams are always in season in Dogwood Creek, Tennessee!
Investigative journalist Ryan Hartmann is living his best life. Based in his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia, he gets the prime assignments and travels the world. When he finally takes a break to visit his Grandpa Luke in a tiny mountain town in Tennessee, Ryan encounters a gorgeous fireball of a woman at the local diner before he even steps foot in his grandfather’s house. After a case of mistaken identity and a wacky run-in at the local bookmobile, these two are off and running!
Jennifer Collins moved into her grandmother’s mansion in Dogwood Creek five years ago. Her Grandma Ellie has plenty of room and, as a successful playwright, she needs an assistant. Also a part-time actor at the nearby Smoky Mountain Playhouse, Jennifer slides effortlessly into both roles. What she doesn’t expect is a handsome man from Atlanta with mesmerizing eyes, surprising transparency, and a witty sense of humor who comes to town and challenges her at every turn. When a long-held, fiercely guarded family secret is leaked to the public and the press, who has the obvious motive? Who can be trusted?
Join the fun among the dogwoods where love is always in bloom. Toss in a bit of mystery, a group of lovable matchmakers, and the perennial possibility of small-town hijinks. Where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and everyday citizens step out of the shadows as heroes. Who knows, there might even be a knight in shining armor among them!
From USA Today Bestselling Author, JoAnn Durgin, comes this heartwarming second installment of the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series. Watch for a new release every other month!
Julie’s Confession:
Let me start by saying I owe readers and Joann Durgin a HUGE apology. When I wrote my recent review for the latest release in Dogwood Creek Matchmakers, Love in Bloom by Lisa Prysock, I felt like I missed something. I was certain I wrote about the first release, Chasing Snowflakes, by Lori Soard. I was correct, even though I didn’t label it a review.
I was pretty sure I did the same for Joann Durgin’s second release, An Early Spring. I was pretty wrong. This was released in March and is still available. What I love about Dogwood Creek Matchmakers is that they can be read as standalones. My hope, more as a reader than a participating author, is that you devour this series. Because what a treat you are receiving.
An Early Spring is no exception. In this small-town Christian romance, we are back in Dogwood Creek, Tennessee. Joann does an amazing job placing us right in town. These are not characters, they are neighbors. Friends. From the bookmobile to The Gathering Place, there are rich characters and fun interactions I could not get enough of.
Then there’s the romance. I’m a sucker for a hero who is available for their grandparent, and in this case it’s Ryan, an investigative journalist from Atlanta who visits Dogwood Creek to see his Grandpa Luke. Add Jennifer, a local actress equally committed to looking out for her grandmother, and you’ve got me. I’m all in.
What set this apart was the mystery. I didn’t see that coming, and it was a beautiful thread I loved pulling as I turned the pages. Ryan and Jennifer discover the truth as secrets are revealed, the public and press get involved, and the two are faced with dealing with the aftermath together or apart.
This was an enjoyable read from beginning to end. I’m just mad I didn’t alert you to this sooner. If you love small-town romance, clean and wholesome storytelling, engaging characters, and a splash of mystery, there is no better book to pick up before spring leaves than An Early Spring by Joann Durgin. I highly recommend it.
May 4, 2025
Book Review: Love in Bloom by Lisa Prysock
Love in Bloom is the third release in the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series. This can be a standalone, but I highly recommend you also read Chasing Snowflakes by Lori Soard and An Early Spring by Joann Durgin.
Other authors include Leah Atwell, Robin Bayne, Dawn Kinzer, and me. Clean Sweep will be my first release in the series on November 1.
Here’s what Live in Bloom is about:
Hensley Fitzwilliam inherited a wedding boutique from her grandmother. And she’s resolute about making Hensley’s Wedding Creations successful with her designs, hard work, and determination. But she also daydreams about the day she’ll find a husband and be able to have a family of her own. With four unwed sisters, and none of them married, and several broken relationships behind her, she struggles with doubts about her dreams ever coming true. Along comes Blake Sterling, who infuriates her at nearly every turn with his aloof manners and judgmental words. Why does he remind her of Jane Austen’s stern Mr. Darcy from her favorite novel?
Blake Sterling, the son of an elite Manhattan billionaire, purchases property in Dogwood Creek to build a log cabin getaway and resort in the heart of beautiful Tennessee. His new investment paves the way to escape his father’s corporate aspirations, trading them for his own dreams and pursuits. But when he’s unexpectedly thrown together with the beautiful Hensley to work on a community project, why does his past seem to impact the way he interacts and engages with her? Will he forever be opening his mouth only to stick his foot in it?
Is there any hope for these two who seem at odds with each other right from the start? When someone sabotages their project, will figuring out that mystery bring them closer together, or widen the divide?
Get your copy of this sweet, clean, faith-inspired, Contemporary Christian Romance novella today and be swept away to the beautiful mountains of Tennessee where love is always in bloom.
Julie’s Review:
I love a read where I feel like I live in the town and watch everything unfold. Lisa Prysock gave me just that with Love in Bloom. She placed me in Dogwood Creek and gave a grand tour of the town with beautiful interactions and plot points.
Romance? Yes, please! Hensley is a romantic, after all she owns a wedding boutique. There is a lot of Jane Austen influence in Love in Bloom and I love how Hensley’s story unfolded. Blake is reserved, and Hensley isn’t too sure of him at first. As they work together on a project they both learn the person in their present isn’t what hurt them in the past.
Secondary characters? I loved this about Love in Bloom. Lisa created strong characters like Hensley’s family and Blake’s inner circle. They were a nice touch to the story without overshadowing Hensley and Blake. There is even a socialite who shakes things up. And don’t forget those Dogwood Creek Matchmakers because they are busy at work in Love in Bloom.
There is even a bonus. Lisa has a bonus chapter you can download after subscribing to her newsletter. What a perk. I loved that, and I look forward to receiving her newsletter.
I’ve loved each book in the series, and Love in Bloom seamlessly fits. I highly recommend Love in Bloom. If you read and enjoy any of them, please leave a review on Amazon/Goodreads/Bookbub. It really helps. It doesn’t have to be as long as mine. I wanted to give you all the reasons I loved this so.
See you in Dogwood Creek!
Book Review: Live in Bloom by Lisa Prysock
Love in Bloom is the third release in the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series. This can be a standalone, but I highly recommend you also read Chasing Snowflakes by Lori Soard and An Early Spring by Joann Durgin.
Other authors include Leah Atwell, Robin Bayne, Dawn Kinzer, and me. Clean Sweep will be my first release in the series on November 1.
Here’s what Live in Bloom is about:
Hensley Fitzwilliam inherited a wedding boutique from her grandmother. And she’s resolute about making Hensley’s Wedding Creations successful with her designs, hard work, and determination. But she also daydreams about the day she’ll find a husband and be able to have a family of her own. With four unwed sisters, and none of them married, and several broken relationships behind her, she struggles with doubts about her dreams ever coming true. Along comes Blake Sterling, who infuriates her at nearly every turn with his aloof manners and judgmental words. Why does he remind her of Jane Austen’s stern Mr. Darcy from her favorite novel?
Blake Sterling, the son of an elite Manhattan billionaire, purchases property in Dogwood Creek to build a log cabin getaway and resort in the heart of beautiful Tennessee. His new investment paves the way to escape his father’s corporate aspirations, trading them for his own dreams and pursuits. But when he’s unexpectedly thrown together with the beautiful Hensley to work on a community project, why does his past seem to impact the way he interacts and engages with her? Will he forever be opening his mouth only to stick his foot in it?
Is there any hope for these two who seem at odds with each other right from the start? When someone sabotages their project, will figuring out that mystery bring them closer together, or widen the divide?
Get your copy of this sweet, clean, faith-inspired, Contemporary Christian Romance novella today and be swept away to the beautiful mountains of Tennessee where love is always in bloom.
Julie’s Review:
I love a read where I feel like I live in the town and watch everything unfold. Lisa Prysock gave me just that with Love in Bloom. She placed me in Dogwood Creek and gave a grand tour of the town with beautiful interactions and plot points.
Romance? Yes, please! Hensley is a romantic, after all she owns a wedding boutique. There is a lot of Jane Austen influence in Love in Bloom and I love how Hensley’s story unfolded. Blake is reserved, and Hensley isn’t too sure of him at first. As they work together on a project they both learn the person in their present isn’t what hurt them in the past.
Secondary characters? I loved this about Love in Bloom. Lisa created strong characters like Hensley’s family and Blake’s inner circle. They were a nice touch to the story without overshadowing Hensley and Blake. There is even a socialite who shakes things up. And don’t forget those Dogwood Creek Matchmakers because they are busy at work in Love in Bloom.
There is even a bonus. Lisa has a bonus chapter you can download after subscribing to her newsletter. What a perk. I loved that, and I look forward to receiving her newsletter.
I’ve loved each book in the series, and Love in Bloom seamlessly fits. I highly recommend Love in Bloom. If you read and enjoy any of them, please leave a review on Amazon/Goodreads/Bookbub. It really helps. It doesn’t have to be as long as mine. I wanted to give you all the reasons I loved this so.
See you in Dogwood Creek!
May 1, 2025
May 2025 New Releases ACFW Fiction Finder
Julie’s Note:
I’m adding a new release because I’m part of ACFW/Fiction Finder, and I’m part of the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series. Lisa Prysock has a new release in this multi-author project called Love in Bloom.
Hensley Fitzwilliam inherited a wedding boutique from her grandmother. And she’s resolute about making Hensley’s Wedding Creations successful with her designs, hard work, and determination. But she also daydreams about the day she’ll find a husband and be able to have a family of her own. With four unwed sisters, and none of them married, and several broken relationships behind her, she struggles with doubts about her dreams ever coming true. Along comes Blake Sterling, who infuriates her at nearly every turn with his aloof manners and judgmental words. Why does he remind her of Jane Austen’s stern Mr. Darcy from her favorite novel?
Blake Sterling, the son of an elite Manhattan billionaire, purchases property in Dogwood Creek to build a log cabin getaway and resort in the heart of beautiful Tennessee. His new investment paves the way to escape his father’s corporate aspirations, trading them for his own dreams and pursuits. But when he’s unexpectedly thrown together with the beautiful Hensley to work on a community project, why does his past seem to impact the way he interacts and engages with her? Will he forever be opening his mouth only to stick his foot in it?
Is there any hope for these two who seem at odds with each other right from the start? When someone sabotages their project, will figuring out that mystery bring them closer together, or widen the divide?
Get your copy of this sweet, clean, faith-inspired, Contemporary Christian Romance novella today and be swept away to the beautiful mountains of Tennessee where love is always in bloom.
More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website
Biblical Romance:
Mantle by Dana McNeely — Faith. Redemption. The cost of leadership. Will the next generation rise to the challenge and uphold the legacy of Elijah, or will they falter under the weight of the mantle? (Biblical Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)
Dixie Randolph and the Mystery of Willow Creek by MaryAnn Diorio — A twelve-year-old girl learns of a plot to kill her father and risks her life to save his.(Children’s Middle-grade/Chapter book from TopNotch Press)
Meet Me on Lilac Lane by Andrea Christenson — He was her late husband’s best friend, but for him she’d always been the one. (Contemporary Romance from Sunrise Publishing)
Anxious For Love by Gina Conroy — She’s anxious about love. He’s built a career on it— what could possibly go wrong? Fans of witty banter, reluctant allies, and slow-burn tension with a splash of reality TV romance will swoon over this feel-good romcom with heart, humor, and a happily ever after. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Mountain Homecoming by Susanne Dietze — After months away, architect Wyatt Teague returns home only to find himself named a guardian to his late friends’ orphaned twins…alongside his ex-fiancée, Natalie Dalton. But caring for them together proves to be a challenge: Wyatt’s job is in the city, and Natalie can’t leave her family’s apple orchard. As they vow to make this new partnership work, old feelings between them quickly resurface. But when Natalie finds out the true reason behind Wyatt’s abandonment, can she trust him with the babies…and her heart? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Hearts Aweigh by Shannon Sue Dunlap — Cheeky septuagenarian matchmakers, the “Shippers” are on a mission to secure a dreamy Mr. Right for Abby O’Brien, a sunny, optimistic childcare worker for Monarch Cruises. She loves her job looking after the children of vacationing parents, but harbors one unfulfilled desire: to be a wife and a mother. With his shy five-year-old daughter in tow, divorced elitist lawyer Spencer Randolph Masterson has anything but romance in mind. His goal on the MS Buckingham is to persuade his mother, Daisy, to leave her ridiculous cruise ship lifestyle and return to New Orleans. But Daisy isn’t interested in life on land. Besides, she and her matchmaking posse have a marriage to arrange. (Contemporary Romance from Kregel Publications)
Sometimes You Stay by Liz Johnson For digital content creator Cretia Martin, home is wherever her carry-on suitcase lands. She’s never been interested in settling in one spot—after all, houses are just places that collect junk and tie you down. But when she literally bumps into local dog breeder Finn Chaffey on Prince Edward Island and all of the tools of her trade end up in the harbor, she can’t exactly leave until she gets things sorted out. Finn is horrified by the part he played in the accident and offers to help, arranging for Cretia to stay with a friend at the beautiful Red Door Inn. The longer Cretia is forced to remain in one place, the more she discovers what she’s been missing with life on the road—and the more she wants to see Finn and his business succeed. But helping him means staying put, the one thing she always swore she wouldn’t do, and risking the only thing she’s never put on the line—her heart. (Contemporary Romance from Revell – a division of Baker Publishing Group)
A Valentine for a Vet by Carolyn Miller Veterinarian Jessie James loves her dog, loves her work, loves her family. She’s got a lot on her plate, which means there’s no time for a certain dishy teammate of her pro hockey-player brother, despite what others may think. Tom Chavez knows he’s in the friend zone, but isn’t one to give up too easily, especially when he’s concerned that this hardworking vet might be working herself into an early grave. When tragedy strikes the vet practice, he’s going to do all he can to show her he’s more than just a shoulder to cry on, and that he cares about more than her skills with his dog.
(Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
No Place Like Home by Betsy St. Amant — Magnolia Bay’s development director, Cade Landry, would do anything for his town—and his family. So when the mayor—who also happens to be his father—decides to retire, he talks Cade into running for his seat. But Cade is already up to his dimpled cheeks in the town’s post-hurricane revitalization fundraiser—Magnolia Days, featuring a flashy Cajun Circus. If Cade can’t put the bay back on the map as a tourist town, he’ll let the whole community down…and worse yet, his father. Rosalyn Dupree is a famous aerialist with a secret—actually, quite a few of them. Much to Cade’s relief, she agrees to return to Magnolia Bay for the first time in years as a headliner for the Cajun Circus. But neither her charming former school rival Cade nor her parents know she’s broke, in debt, and nursing a back injury…among other things. Despite her best efforts at resisting, sparks fly between Cade and Rosalyn as they work together on the circus fundraiser. But when everyone’s secrets are revealed and worlds collide, will Rosalyn find forgiveness and restoration in a town being rebuilt? Or will there never be anywhere to truly call home? (Contemporary Romance from Sunrise Publishing)
Recipe for Love by Penny Zeller — Rumors started flying when all of the businesses on Main Street in Cloverdale Falls sold last month. Bakery owner Maisie Carpenter finds herself appointed to uncover the mysterious new owner’s identity, and in the process hopefully allay some of the residents’ fears. What happens when she solves the mystery and discovers the man in charge of purchasing the businesses is the very man she has recently fallen in love with? (Contemporary Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)
Worthless Treasures by Mary L Hamilton — Professional organizer Diamond Lange helps clients declutter their homes and let go of what no longer serves them. But when her mother, Eva, suddenly passes away, Diamond is left with a house overflowing with junk and a promise she regrets making. Although Diamond considers everything in her mother’s house trash, Eva left behind a very specific list of five seemingly worthless objects. Eva requested these items be passed on to others who will cherish them as much as she did. In fulfilling a promise to her late mother, Diamond learns that worth isn’t always measured in dollars and cents; sometimes it’s measured in the heart. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction, Independently Published)
The Way Home by Heidi Chiavaroli — Two lost souls, one lighthouse journey . . . and an unforgettable search for the way home. The Way Home is the second book in the Lights of Acadia series by two-time Carol award-winning author Heidi Chiavaroli. If you like romantic Women’s Fiction, you’ll love this thoughtful novel steeped in family secrets, second chances, and boundless compassion. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)
BirdSong: Stories of Promise and Hope by Sara Davison, Deb Elkink, Stacy Monson, Chautona Havig, Cathe Swanson, Milla Holt and Eleanor Bertin– From unexpected journeys into the future and the past to a life-changing weekend, a spontaneous road trip, family trauma, the birth of a bookstore, and a potentially disastrous wedding, the men and women in these stories must deal with everything life is throwing at them. Which is a lot. The turmoil and craziness challenge each of them to believe the promise of God’s timing—that every winter, no matter how dark and cold, will be followed by a season of birdsong. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)
Gideon’s Book by Maureen Miller — This powerful time-split contemporary novel explores race, faith, love, and self-discovery, and touches on themes of adoption and abortion as well as the beauty of marital love. (General Contemporary (split-time) from Redemption Press)
Salome by Jenifer Jennings — Salome, the youngest of Jesus’siblings, learns to find her voice under Jesus’ guidance, but her bold defiance against the Pharisees leads her into the hands of Roman persecution. Explore the passion, conflict, and sacrifice of the early church in Salome, Book 7 of the Servant Siblings series. (General Historical, Independently Published)
Show Me Skulduggery by Ellen E Withers — Death comes knocking once again in Show Me Skulduggery, the captivating third book in the award-winning Show Me Mysteries series. These mysteries involve two eras, early 1900s, and contemporary times, featuring a famous Saddlebred horse stable in Mexico, Missouri. Intrigue, deception, underhanded behavior, and murder will keep you turning pages. (Historical Mystery from Scrivenings Press)
A Slight Change of Plans by Denise M. Colby — She believes she doesn’t matter. His scars have made him an unlovable outcast. As Jenny settles into the welcoming, but small, town of Washton, she can’t help but come across Ren, especially since his daily constitutional takes him along the same path. It doesn’t take long for them to form a connection that breaks down the walls erected by years of hurt. But when strange occurrences unsettle the townspeople, it seems their chance at happiness might be at risk. Will Jenny and Ren discover that they’re enough—for God, and each other? (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)
Perfect by Kimberly Keagan — When the perfect life unravels, can love turn the page to a new beginning? In the glittering era of the Gilded Age, the heirs of Philadelphia’s Denwall Department Stores navigate family expectations, relentless ambition, and unexpected love. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Sporting For Love by Candice Sue Patterson — When a Boston socialite on the run gets entangled with a Maine outdoorsman, things get wild. When their weekend outing in the woods with the Appalachian Mountain Club goes terribly wrong, Ford and Juniper must decide if the lives they’ve been seeking are what they truly want or if they’re willing to risk a little adventure. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
An Unexpected Grace by Kimberley Woodhouse and Tracie Peterson — After a decade away, Parker Bennett returns home with a traveling troupe to perform a play based on Uncle Tom’s Cabin at the Kalispell Opera House. Parker has relished his life on the road, but being home awakens long-buried emotions when he encounters his first love, Johanna St. John. Widowed for three years, Johanna devotes all her time to a demanding toddler, an injured father, and a successful millinery business. After the loss of her husband, she desires to move on, but reconnecting with her past love leaves her unsure of what lies ahead. Both committed to God’s distinct calling on their lives, Johanna and Parker struggle to see how their futures can unite, and when strange things start happening around town, their second chance at a life together seems more unlikely than ever. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)
A Troubling Suggestion by Betty Woods — Clarisse Matthews still grieves the tragic loss of her fiancé and doubts she’ll ever love anyone again. Particularly if she has to divulge the secret abolitionist ideas she keeps hidden deep inside that only her beloved knew. After the lady Luke Williams loved spurned him and married another man, he will never risk giving his heart to another woman. But when Luke’s cousin is deceived by a rogue, who only Luke and Clarisse know the whole truth about, they form a reluctant alliance to protect his cousin. Their feigned attraction grows into genuine love. But will the differences between them become a wall too tall to climb or can they find a way around? (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)
No Time to Die by Taylor S Newport — Australian mercenary Tyler Reid, known as “The Ghost of OZ,” has a talent for evading detection, a skill that has caught the eye of multiple government agencies. When a shadowy group targets a CIA asset and her revolutionary drug ND1, the Deputy Director calls in Tyler. Eager for action, Tyler takes the job. For covert foreign operative Alexandra Romanova, freedom is a distant dream. Her deadly skills are at her boss’s disposal, but she’ll use them only to escape. Her final chance hinges on retrieving ND1, but the elusive Ghost of Oz complicates things. Tyler Reid isn’t an easy mark, and the better she gets to know him, the more she questions the mission she’s tasked with. Soon she faces a dire choice: kill a man she is convinced is good, or pay with her own life. In this high-stakes fight, time is running out, and the margin for error is zero. (Military Suspense from Whitewater River Publishing)
Rescued Heart: A Last Chance County Novel by Megan Besing — Actress Bianca “Bia” Pearl has finally landed the headlining role that could help leave her scandalous past behind—a role that may even earn back her parents’ respect. All she has to do is stick to the script, both on and off camera. Bianca is determined to prove to the press that she’s not who they say she is…an overrated gold digger.
Firefighter and former foster child Eddie Rice has always drawn the short straw in life. Now, he’s determined to help kids in need have a better future than he did. And when Eddie is selected to represent the fire station at Last Chance County’s masquerade ball, he realizes it’s the perfect opportunity to secure the mayor’s signature on a grant for a much-needed rec center. But when a case of mistaken identity and a bribe lead to Eddie and Bia being trapped together in a fire, the pair must team up to escape—and protect their futures in the process. (Romantic Suspense from Sunrise Publishing)
Midnight Offensive by Elle E Kay — ER nurse Sadie Kline can’t shake the feeling that something is off about the man who comes into her ER late one night. But she brushes it off—until a blind date with her brother’s best friend, Craig Malone, leads to something far more complicated than old feelings and second chances. Craig, now a Homeland Security agent, is tracking a stolen biological weapon when Sadie’s unsettling experience places her on his radar. She may hold the key to identifying a dangerous suspect, and when her family is targeted, protecting her becomes more than just part of the job. As danger escalates and secrets unravel, Craig and Sadie must work together to stop a biological attack. But in a world of shifting loyalties and silent threats, trusting each other might be the most dangerous move of all. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Missing in Texas by Virginia Vaughan — The moment FBI agent Christy Williams arrives in Mercy, Texas, determined to solve her friend’s disappearance twelve years ago, she becomes a killer’s number one target. Ignoring the threats on her life, she partners with Deputy Mike Tyner, the cousin of one of the chief suspects…and the last person to see her friend alive. As they work to investigate this cold case together, it becomes clear someone will stop at nothing to keep the past hidden. With time running out, can Mike keep Christy alive long enough to find justice for her friend…before a murderer strikes again? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Inheritance by J.A. Webb — Father Curtis has forsaken his vows. He has left the Order and joined the Seekers, a hidden rebellion dedicated to uncovering the truth long buried by the global church. But walking away from the Order does not mean escaping its reach. When word spreads that a copy of the True Text — the original thirty-nine books of the Creator — has surfaced on the far side of the world, Curtis, Professor Reuel, and Phillip embark on a desperate mission. If they can retrieve the artifact, it could change everything. If they fail, the truth will be lost forever. The war for truth has begun. And the Order will not suffer heretics to live. (Suspense, Independently Published)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
Just a Piece of Stone by Mary Ann Hake — A Jewish boy receives a special stone passed on through the generations, clear back to Bible times, and learns its history via family stories. (Children’s Middle-grade/Chapter Books)
Frazzled Moms vs Wild by Stephanie Paige King — Two moms, one campsite, zero survival skills. Nothing’s more frazzling than a family camping trip, except bringing along the neighbors and their trio of toddlers. (General Contemporary)
Forever Changed by Diana Leagh Matthews — What would you do if you had to raise someone else’s family and step into their lives? Can Caleb and Danielle let go of their painful pasts, forgive, and move forward into an uncertain future? (Contemporary/Women’s Fiction)
Mouse in Your Pocket by Janetta Fudge Messmer — How can Jessica handle inheriting a junkyard, her common sense going out the window, and Jimmy Barnes? She doesn’t, without the Lord. (Contemporary Romance)
Frayed Promises by Lynn U. Watson — If you enjoy stories of faith in the face of society’s pressures and trusting God in times of struggle, you’ll love this closed-door romance that will keep you guessing until the end. (Historical Romance)
Road Trip Redemption by Becca Wierwille — Jada talks her two older sisters into a trip to Pennsylvania to reunite Kimmy with her furry friend. But as new questions about their canine companion unravel Jada’s plans, she wonders how she’ll face Kimmy after all these years. The road ahead may be more complicated than Jada imagined. (Children’s Middle-grade/Chapter Books)
April 21, 2025
Whatever It Takes by Sarah Hanks
Whatever It Takes
My new release Whatever It Takes is the 3rd split-time novel in the Sisters in Arms collection featuring secret female Civil War soldiers in the historical storyline. Each book can be read as a standalone.
The modern-day storyline features two sisters, Everly and Ivy. When cancer steals Ivy’s womb, Everly steps up to be her surrogate. To do so, she must face past trauma and lean on the Lord to walk in freedom.
Each book in the Sisters in Arms collection is personal to me for different reasons. This time around, I found myself going through much of the process Everly went through. Not because I’m a surrogate, but because my husband and I adopted an embryo.
As I wrote about Everly undergoing painful progesterone shots to prepare her womb, I was giving myself those same shots. As I wrote about Everly experiencing the embryo transfer, I had an embryo transferred to my womb. As I wrote about the sisters eagerly waiting to see if the pregnancy “stuck”, I was undergoing that excruciating ten-day wait. Talk about research!
I’m now over half-way through this pregnancy. This baby will not have our genes, but she will have our love. Unlike Everly, we will get to keep her and raise her in our family, loving her all the days of her life.
In my *book* research of surrogates, I found it fascinating how different women deal with the process of handing a baby they’ve carried for nine months over to the genetic mother. It seems excruciatingly hard to me. Nearly impossible. And yet, women do this for many reasons. The inspiration for Everly and Ivy’s story came from two sisters in New Zealand who had a similar situation. (You can read their story in Amazing Grace: A story of surrogacy and the love of two New Zealand sisters.) One sister offered her womb to the other. What a beautiful sacrifice. What love!
Yet this was far from picture perfect. Pregnancy hormones are no joke. Pair that with the emotions of someone who has undergone cancer and no longer has a womb and it’s a prime situation for conflict. Having been on both sides of the natural health spectrum, I thought it would be interesting to incorporate those differing opinions and world views.
Ultimately, my hope is that Whatever It Takes points the reader to the One who made the ultimate sacrifice to bring us into His family. There is truly no greater love.
You can purchase Whatever It Takes here. It’s also free on KU.
About the Book:
At the brink of the Civil War, Henrietta Frontenac is a fierce protector of her five younger sisters. As poverty and despair threaten their survival, Henrietta takes a bold step to protect her family. She disguises herself as a man to find work at the docks and is soon swept into the ranks of the Confederate army. Facing unimaginable risks, will she maintain her secret identity, or will unexpected love unravel all she’s worked for?
In the present, Everly Moore, a former wild spirit turned compassionate chiropractor, has spent fifteen years trying to redeem her past. When her beloved sister Ivy faces the heart-wrenching challenge of infertility, Everly finds herself at a crossroads, unsure if she can confront her own trauma and step up as Ivy’s surrogate. After Everly and Ivy stumble upon the story of their brave relative Henrietta, they are inspired to confront their own fears. But will they make the difficult choices that could change their lives forever?
Dive deep into this intertwined narrative where past and present collide, showcasing the unyielding strength of sisterhood. A story of love, resilience, and the battles that unite us across generations.
About the Author:
Sarah Hanks is an award-winning author of Christian fiction in both the contemporary and historical genres. After spending over a decade mostly writing and teaching Sunday school curricula for churches in her community, she jumped into writing fiction full-time with her split-time novel Mercy Will Follow Me. She and her husband have nine children, a couple of whom seem to have inherited their mother’s love for playing with words and crafting stories. Though Sarah dreams of a cabin by the beach, the family lives jammed together in beautiful chaos near St. Louis, Missouri. She buys earplugs in bulk.
You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram @authorsarahhanks.
