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A Most Peculiar Providence

Not yet published
Expected 10 Mar 26
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Joshua Donnelly has lived a careful, orderly life in the old house on Church Street, as his mama taught him. Then, on the coldest night of the year, a newborn baby appears in his care with no explanation and no instructions. Only a prayer answered in the most unexpected way.

Heather Thomas arrives in Peculiar carrying her own heartbreak, running from mistakes she cannot undo. When her path crosses Josh’s, the two form a fragile, improbable unit built on kindness, faith, and more hope than sense.

As gossip swirls, authorities ask questions, and the town watches closely, Josh and Heather must decide whether to trust coincidence or believe some gifts are heaven-sent.

A Most Peculiar Providence is a tender small-town novel about grace, second chances, and the quiet miracles that arrive when love opens the door.

428 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 10, 2026

7 people are currently reading
81 people want to read

About the author

Angela Elwell Hunt

333 books1,998 followers
Christy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected in novels from this versatile author. With nearly six million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 165 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to novels.

Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.

Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.

Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.

Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.

In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,546 reviews208 followers
Read
February 17, 2026
4 ⭐

I’ve only read this author’s biblical fiction novels before, so I was curious about this standalone novel about second chances and grace.

For many of us, life has a way of settling into a rhythm and the delicate balance of routines keeps our day moving smoothly. Twenty-six-year-old Joshua Donnelly has a routine of little rituals that become part of what makes him who he is…until he’s thrown off by a disruption in his daily tasks. December 9, 2006, starts like every other morning, but by day’s end, Joshua is learning to embrace a different rhythm, and his response to the disruption makes all the difference.

I loved this one and read in awe as Joshua navigated one ‘disruption’ after another, making space for found family. The storytelling pulled me in and the unpredictable narrative held my attention. I appreciated the reminder to open the door to each day with grace.

If you love a writing style and a mystery that instantly pulls you in, illustrations, a small-town setting, a faith-forward narrative, and a dog (Mastiff), you need to check out this one!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for Sheila.
Author 1 book23 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 19, 2026
I received a digital ARC of this book for my honest review.

What a beautiful story about hope and redemption. A Most Peculiar Providence tackles some tough situations with grace and finesse and shows us what happens when the ugly, hard side of life meets just one person willing to obey that Still Small Voice. I was deeply touched by both Josh and Heather's stories and interactions with each other...especially Josh's child-like innocence that allowed God to move moraculously in his life. Cheif Bowen was also a favorite character, his heart torn between duty and what was right. I highly recommemd this book!
Profile Image for Patricia Morse.
16 reviews
February 8, 2026
I read an advanced copy of A Most Peculiar Providence by Angela Hunt via NetGally. To be available March 30

A newborn, a small town that notices everything, a buried secret

Josh - gentle, God fearing, maybe on the spectrum
Heather- drifter in town Maggie- infant born on Christmas Eve
Major twist at chapter 36
Five stars from me
Profile Image for Lisa Wilson.
145 reviews9 followers
February 23, 2026
I wasn’t sure how I would feel reading this book. I’d previously tried reading one of her BibFic novels, but couldn’t make it past the first chapter. But, this book had me completely hooked from beginning to end, and now I’m thinking I need to give her BibFic novels another try.
This story was full of every emotion from love to fear, and I felt as though I was walking in the characters shoes. Not only was the book full of faith, it was full of showing God’s providence in everyday life.
* TRIGGER WARNINGS: If you’ve experienced any kind of pregnancy/infant loss, it’s part of the story line. As well as any bad foster care experiences

* I received this book as an ARC and was not required to leave a positive review, all thoughts and opinions are my own
Profile Image for Alison.
1 review
Read
February 9, 2026
This story set in a small town in Florida is a total gem! From the beginning, Angela captures the charm & quirks of a close-knit community, soaked in secrets by good meaning, God fearing people. I really enjoyed how naturally faith was woven into the story and the journey the main character, Josh Donnelly, takes in trusting God through many uncertain circumstances. This was a wholesome story filled with mystery until the end.
Profile Image for Cindy Pye.
128 reviews8 followers
Read
February 7, 2026
This little town reminds me of where I grew up, as well as the people there back then. The story was stimulating while the setting was relaxing. In the very end, it turned out one of the ways I hoped, but the storyline kept me guessing. I had a hard time putting this down and highly recommend it.
16 reviews
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3½ rounded up)

This is a warm, faith-centered story about compassion, chosen family, and the belief that God works through ordinary people caring for one another.

The strongest craft choice is the use of the sheriff as narrator. His calm, observational voice keeps the story from feeling preachy and lets readers draw their own conclusions about the characters and the town. The writing itself is solid and easy to settle into, and the quiet domestic scenes are where the novel shines most.

Heather’s arc felt the most realistic to me. Her struggles with self-worth, fear of stability, and gradual movement toward belonging were emotionally credible and earned. In contrast, Josh is consistently kind and gentle, but his emotional and spiritual journey felt more inherited than wrestled into. I found myself wanting more gravity and internal struggle given what he experiences.

The tension throughout the book is very light, and many conflicts resolve gently, which makes the overall trajectory somewhat predictable. That isn’t a flaw so much as a reflection of the inspirational genre’s focus on reassurance and restoration over ambiguity.

One personal drawback for me was the inclusion of photorealistic images between chapters. They limited my imagination and occasionally pulled me out of the story rather than adding to it.

Overall, this is a feel-good novel about lived faith, healing through relationships, and choosing what’s right even when it’s hard. Readers who enjoy uplifting, providence-driven stories will likely appreciate it. For me, it landed at a solid 3½ stars — well written and thoughtful, but not deeply affecting.
Profile Image for Erin Laramore.
844 reviews79 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 8, 2026
4.5 stars for this quirky contemporary story about following the Lord's prompting, even when it's uncomfortable. This story takes place in the exceptionally small town of Peculiar, Florida, where everyone knows everyone else's business and the police work is generally uncomplicated. Told, in part, in first person narrative from the police chief's perspective and predominantly in 3rd person narrative from the perspective of Josh Donnelly and/or Heather Thomas, this story had several viewpoints that helped the reader see the full story. This was a primarily character-driven story and made me think a bit of Jan Karon's Mitford series, but there was definitely more plot in this story than in Mitford - but the plot points came in spurts. I enjoyed the character development aspects of the story and really liked Josh's character. His simplicity and trust in the Lord was refreshing. I was not a huge fan of Heather's for much of the story, but by the end she'd come to grow on me. This story had a strong faith thread as it spoke to the lengths God goes to bring one of his lost sheep home and also spoke to the cost of following Him no matter what. There was a mystery element in the 2nd half that resolved somewhat predictably, but definitely satisfactorily. All in all, this was an enjoyable story and one I'd recommend to fans of small town settings, good character development plots and/or quirky towns. Special thanks to the author for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
Profile Image for Susan  Faloon.
1,141 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 24, 2026
Josh got the message from God. Feed My Lamb. Later he heard, Seek My Lamb.

Things are happening in Peculiar, Florida. Josh Donnelly has been given a mission from his mother. "Fill the house. Create yourself a family." People in town start noticing some strange things going on with the quiet, polite young man.
Heather Thomas had endured painful loss in her young life. Now she is fighting to survive. She isn't into communicating with God. Not in years. Not since "her prayers had begun to feel like letters returned unopened."
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader's copy of this book. I didn't know what to expect. I found it to be a touching story of innocent faith, caring community, painful pasts and hope. Josh is a wonderful character. His faith is something we could all treasure. His example shows God's faithfulness when we trust Him. His is a character I won't forget for some time.
The town police chief lends his voice to the narrative which is different and interesting. I like him. By the book, he does his job while looking to the retied chief at times for direction.
Heather is a relatable character too. No one has believed in her, so it is an impossibility for her to believe in herself.
There are a couple of small imperfections in this story but overall, it is very special. I give it a 4.8-star rating. I look forward to the next Peculiar book!
Profile Image for Karen R.
748 reviews96 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 16, 2026
Fans of Southern fiction will love this tale.
Set in a small Florida town named Peculiar, a kind, sincere young man's ordered life is upended as the world and its complicated problems are brought to his door.

This was an engaging read, with masterful storytelling. It started out seemingly simple, but like Josh's life, the plot became more complicated and unpredictable. It's one of those stories that makes you care for the characters so much that you laugh and cry with them, and want to pray for them. It reminded me of Sean Deitrich and Jan Karon's novels, with nods to Southern culture and the human drama that unfolds.

The author doesn't shy away from tough topics, but handles them gently and with just enough details to make them realistic. Teenage pregnancy, domestic violence, homelessness, and loss are touched on. Life is messy and complicated sometimes, but a little love, kindness, and faith goes a long way to overcoming whatever happens.

Recommend to readers who like character driven tales, with faith, friendship and a bit of romance. 5 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
3 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 18, 2026
A Most Peculiar Providence is a contemporary novel filled with likable characters, plot twists, love, and redemption. And who doesn't love a story with a newborn and a giant dog?

The author helps you jump into the storyline right away and keeps your interest throughout the book. I found myself wanting to read just a little bit more... and just a few more pages... until I was immersed in the world of Peculiar. Joshua's quiet life is turned upside down with the mysterious arrival of a newborn on Christmas Eve. Add a heartbroken young woman who is searching for something she can't define, and a small town where everyone knows your business and you're hooked. The supporting characters are a fun lot, too.

I enjoyed the author's style, the pace of the book, and the way God is always in the background of the story, answering prayers and guiding the characters. I didn't want the story to end and savored it as much as I could. I would recommend this book for everyone looking for a good contemporary novel that will leave you wanting more.
Profile Image for Janet.
1,068 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 21, 2026
I loved this read. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect at the beginning but as we learn more about the our main characters of Josh and Heather we grow to care about them. Josh had me curious from the start in his quiet and unique ways yet very grounded in the Lord. Heather was an opposite and I wasn't sure where she was headed. She was what I would call a train wreck and my heart hurt for her.

Over time, we learn more and more on them and the town of caring, know everything people. Enter Maggie, a most adorable baby and I'm intrigued where this would all go.

There is a twist and how it spins and works out was interesting to say the least. A nice mystery.

These characters left me smiling and wanting to know just a bit more by the end.

Thank you to Netgalley and Hunt Haven Press for allowing me to read and review in exchange for a fair review.
This title publishes March 10, 2026.
59 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 6, 2026
A Most Peculiar Providence
The quiet, sleepy town of Peculiar is sudden invaded by inopportune tragedies and events: the death of a young man’s beloved mother, followed by the mysterious appearance of a new-born baby on his doorstop. Josh Donnelly quietly accepts the commission to “Feed my lamb,” welcomes the little girl, and names her Maggie, into his home. A mysterious murder, a secretive retired Sheriff, and a travel worn young woman, Heather, and a massive dog, Hoss, round out this is a heartwarming story of dedication and love. We, the readers, are challenged to look out for and care for the lost, disenfranchised, and poor and to find joy in the journey life hands us. Josh’s Recipes at the end are hilarious—A must read! I received a complimentary copy of this book but it did not influence my review. I recommend this book!
Profile Image for Margaret Nelson.
1,676 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 9, 2026
I have read quite a few of Angela Hunt’s books, and have enjoyed all the different kinds of novels she writes – historical, contemporary romance, speculative, you name it. They make me think, keep me chuckling at times, and bring to life the time period being written about.

A Most Peculiar Providence has its chuckles, but keep your tissues handy too. I was never quite sure where the story was going to go next, but enjoyed all the different plot twists. The characters are mostly loveable, and wait until you meet Hoss. If you want a quirky but very satisfying read, I recommend this one.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." #AmostPeculiarProvidence #NetGalley
Profile Image for Chandra Smith.
Author 6 books7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 13, 2026
I had the privilege and honor to read this book before its release. My advice? Go ahead and pre-purchase it, you'll not be disappointed. Angela Hunt has done it again! Seriously, I was enveloped in this book from page one and was actually saddened when it ended and it was time to 'leave' the town of Peculiar. The characters were captivating and the dog, oh the dog was perfect! (Of course, I am a dog trainer so I would love the dog.) Angela is a master at weaving a story and making the reader connect with the characters as if they are your next-door neighbors.

I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Brittany.
119 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 19, 2026
There are LOTS of religious references which, if you’re familiar with the author, may not be a surprise. It was my first read of hers. Maybe it’s because I’ve never lived in a small town, but I found it hard to believe the handsome, 26 year old, virginal mama’s boy fell for the wounded, freshly-miscarrying 22 year old who couldn’t bring herself to be kind to him until way too late. And he was supposed to support them on his local toy maker salary?
All in all, it just wasn’t for me, but I can imagine the right audience would really enjoy a book that’s heavy on the “holy”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Hannah Alexander.
Author 48 books205 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 23, 2026
I just finished this dream of a novel by Angela Elwell Hunt. Providence is a place where people still go to church on Sunday and believe in integrity. This is especially true for a young man named Joshua, who just lost his mother. When the unthinkable happens and a newborn baby is delivered to his front door he believes this is an answer to prayer. What happens afterward is not a romance, it's a love story of a whole town of people. It's also a gentle mystery that kept me reading. I definitely recommend this book to readers who need a good story and a boost of hope.
201 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 13, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. What an absolutely delightful, charming and heartwarming story! Josh was a gem and all the characters were wonderful. This was my idea of a perfect book and I would give it more than five stars if possible. The ending was so very good!
Profile Image for Bridgett.
14 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 23, 2026
I’d give A Most Peculiar Providence 4.5 stars.

This was such a sweet, heartfelt story. I loved the small town setting. The whole book feels warm and hopeful without being over the top. The faith elements felt natural, and I really liked watching Josh and Heather slowly figure things out. The romance didn't feel unrealistically rushed.

It wasn’t quite a full five stars for me because of how everything just wrapped up so quickly in the last few chapters, it didn't quite match the pacing of the rest of the book. Overall I was completely invested. Angela Hunt always writes with so much heart, and this one definitely left me smiling.

I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Tonje Lien.
39 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 20, 2026
I did not know anything about this book beforhand. It was a lovely story mixed with a little small town mysterie but all the bible talk was not for me. But I understood after that this is markeded as a christian fiction and that makes a lot of sence and if you do like those this is a book I would recommend for you!
Profile Image for Kathy.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 1, 2026
A wonderfully engaging story that wanders through the town of Peculiar. A well told story that does't rush, but I found it hard to read it slowly. There were so many little twists that it would keep you guessing as to how it would end. Thank you again, Mrs. Hunt for a beautiful tale.
1 review
February 11, 2026
What happens when law collides with grace? Are mercy and justice mutually exclusive? In a Most Peculiar Providence, Angela Hunt weaves a breathtaking story of unlikely love, unexpected miracles, and the power of community.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 19, 2026
This is an an exceptionally warm and moving story that gently embraces you with its sincerity and authenticity. Written in a smooth, natural style, it allows you to feel and get caught up in the emotions of the characters.

17 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 19, 2026
This book was a cute heart warming story but, a bit slow for my liking.
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