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The Belle of Chatham by Laura Frantz Review

January 9, 2026January 9, 2026 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: The Belle of Chatham

Author: Laura Frantz

Publisher: Revell

Releases: Jan. 20, 2026

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

A tale of courtship & marriage, duty versus desire, faith & forgiveness.

In 1777, caught in the crossroads of the American Revolution, sisters Maebel and Coralie Bohannon’s quaint New Jersey village becomes a battleground as they house American officers in their home. Rebellion ripples through their family as members take opposing sides–Patriots and Loyalists–causing a deep chasm that fractures their once-unbreakable bond. As Mae’s friendship grows with the American general Rhys Harlow, Coralie continues her liaison with her childhood sweetheart, a British officer stationed in New York. Torn between her growing love for the general and suspicion that her sister is a British spy, Mae leaves the only home she’s ever known for the New York frontier. When betrayal strikes in the heart of the wilderness, she’s forced to take a perilous journey that tests her very survival and those she loves, all in the name of liberty.

Proclaimed wordsmith extraordinaire by Library Journal, Laura Frantz delivers a stirring tale of divided loyalties, sisterhood, and love.

About the Author

Laura Frantz, has been writing stories since age seven. She is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century and her novels often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Proud of her heritage, she is also a Daughter of the American Revolution. Though she will always consider Kentucky home, she and her husband live in Washington State. Her bestselling, award-winning novels have been translated into various languages. Visit her website and sign up for her newsletter.

My Impressions

“‘If the love of your country is indeed the governing principle of your soul, you will give up every inclination which is incompatible with it; nor will you cherish in your hearts any rivals of the favorite passion.’”

Hold on to your beaver skin hat, Bleu, you’ve just acquired some serious competition! I thought Laura Frantz could never produce a swoon-worthy hero I would love more than Bleu, but oh, my stars and garters!! Rhys Harlow, the Frantz hero of The Belle of Chatham, certainly is amazing!

Where does one start a review with such a memorable book? Frantz’s writing style holds me mesmerized as she paints mental pictures of the lush or barren landscapes, and produces smells with her word wizardry. These are not pages one can speed-read through!

So many different plot points come together to make this a totally great story! Do I emphasize the romance ( slow-burn, tightly controlled because of the military situations), the family division (so painful), or the Revolutionary War history presented, the strategies and battles well-researched and a teaching point, if you will. And the smallpox inoculation mandate. So much to learn! Plus, the way that Mae and others learn to incorporate their faith in the day-to-day. “…lately I’ve prayed to be the person the Almighty wants me to be. Let challenging circumstances change me for the better.” Mae and others are indeed challenged in this novel, almost beyond endurance. But another quote reminds them that these hard circumstances won’t last forever. “Remember all this is fleeting. We seem to be walking through fire now, but it has an end.” We would all do well to remember this!

Indeed. One of the things I liked most about this book was it didn’t end with the marriage and “Happily Ever After” of the main characters. Instead, our fave two characters find that there are bumps in the road of marital bliss. And their bumps appear as big as the mountains of Rhys’s Virginia. This book is a great reminder that “happily ever after” is a myth. There are foxes, or wolves, and we must choose forgiveness.

Whew! Ready to re-read all over again!!

I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher through NetGalley. I also have pre-ordered pb copies for my trophy shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Sometimes it’s the simplest things that mean the most.” – Rhys

“All of us have wounds. Some scarring you simply don’t see.” – Rhys

“I’d rather hear the truth than lies or empty assurances.” – Mae

“Surely the Lord was teaching her in the waiting and making something more of her than she was.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior!! I am only allowed to give 5 stars. Alas, this book earns so many more!!

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Not Exactly Mr. Darcy by Carolyn Miller Review and Giveaway

January 5, 2026 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Not Exactly Mr. Darcy

Author: Carolyn Miller

Genre: Romance/Contemporary/Christian Fiction

Release Date: December, 2025

Pride, Pemberley, and Second Chances

When history-loving Olivia Bennett’s teaching contract isn’t renewed, she is considered her family’s logical choice to care for her ailing grandmother in a tiny English village. While there, she soon finds additional work at nearby Hartbury Hall—one of England’s great houses once used as Pemberley in a filmed production of Pride and Prejudice. The head gardener there, however, proves to be anything but the gentlemanly hero of that famous book. Little does she know that behind Liam Browne’s brusque exterior is both a family tragedy and a legacy that demands truth and honor, creating a crisis that only Liv’s vivacious determination can resolve. Along the way, she may just learn that appearances count for naught. . .and that love can be found in unexpected ways.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Carolyn Miller is an inspirational Regency and contemporary romance author who lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. Together with her husband, she has pastored a church for ten years and worked as a public high school English and Learning and Support teacher.

A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English Literature and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives.

More from Carolyn

My Impressions

“Yet something surged up, demanding he live again. To risk, to dream, to trust, to hope.”

Carolyn Miller’s Not Exactly Mr. Darcy has left me in the feel-good state of watching a great play or movie. I am emerging from this book in the mood to give all the other (imaginary) theater-goers around me a hug in this highly charged, enhanced emotional state.

With themes of forgiveness, honesty, grumpy/sunshine mcs, and working as a team against impossible odds, this novel has much to offer. Trusting God and finding God’s path in life are major emphases.

This fun contemporary romance takes on shades of the Regency era as our disgruntled Australian heroine, Liv Bennett, finds run-down Hartbury Hall and gardens unavailable to visitors. This, in her mind, is totally unacceptable, as a movie adaptation of Pride and Prejudice has been filmed using the manor grounds some ten years previous. She believes the manor could be attracting crowds of paying customers. The biggest obstacle seems to be, at first, the surly gardener, Liam.

Before Liv knows it, she is doing more than babysitting her convalescing English grandmother whom she came to visit. She is working as head planner to restore the manor and gardens for visitors. Lack of funds, jealous townspeople, jealous ladies, an uneasy relationship with Liam, all work against Liv in her attempt to resurrect this showcase. Will all her work pay off, or will it be for naught? Will she regret her time in England, working her tail to the bone, losing a bit of her heart in the process?

I could just imagine the restoration of the great hall as it took place. I could not imagine having the organization and knowledge that Liv has to bring everything together. The enthusiasm?! Wow, even surly, disheartened Liam can’t help but notice. The growth arc for Liam is so gratifying to watch. It is a very slow process, though, like a caterpillar making a cocoon, becoming a chrysalis, then finally a butterfly.

Of course, the path to true love might lead through the gardens, but it certainly is not neat and tidy!

While Liv believes “God could be trusted with opening the right doors and closing the wrong ones. In everything.” Life has a way of developing complications, and just when things seem nearly perfect, Liv is required to examine how thoroughly she will choose to live out her faith.

I loved the way the first part of the novel hinted at so many unknowns that the reader slowly discovers, including Liam’s past and just who George is. Three cheers for George, by the way! Great secondary supporting character!

Recommended for fans of history, Anglophiles, and Pride & Prejudice and Jane Austin fans.

I received a copy of the book from the author through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Hope was a dangerous thing. He’d lived with hope before, only to see it crash and burn.” (Liam)

“God might love him, but God’s blessings felt distant, like a star that one would never touch. He’d made too many wrong choices to ever feel secure that God’s love was still warranted.” (Liam)

“What if she’s the answer to your prayers?” – George

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! I thoroughly enjoyed this contemporary romance with Regency references!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 6

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 6

The Sacred Line, January 7

Leslie’s Library Escape, January 8

Vicky Sluiter, January 9

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 9

Texas Book-aholic, January 10

Life on Chickadee Lane, January 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 11

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 12

Tell Tale Book Reviews , January 12

For Him and My Family, January 13

Lyssa Loves Books, January 13

Blossoms and Blessings, January 14

Mornings at Character Cafe, January 14

Holly’s Book Corner, January 15

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s book and movie reviews , January 15

Pause for Tales, January 16

Mary Hake, January 16

Cover Lover Book Review, January 17

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, January 18

To Everything There Is A Season, January 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carolyn is giving away the grand prize of a print copy of the book and a $25 Amazon eGift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/P3So9/not-exactly-mr-darcy-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Favorite, JustRead Tour, Kindle, Purchase

Bernadette by Jennifer Lynn Cary Review

December 23, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: Bernadette

Series: The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue #8

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Publisher: Tandem Services Press

Released: Aug. 4, 2025

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

She’s supposed to be a small-town girl…

…He’s billed as America’s biggest heartthrob.

What could possibly go wrong? How about everything?

Tiny Bernie Sawrey is perfectly happy fixing carburetors until her stepmother ambushes her with a blind date. The catch? It’s with movie star Garrett Lomas, Bernie’s secret celebrity crush and the reason she’s haunted the drive-in alone her entire adult life.

There’s just one teensy problem: Bernie’s about as Hollywood-ready as a rusty muffler.

But when her dad’s garage faces financial ruin, suddenly playing Kokomo’s answer to the girl-next-door doesn’t seem so impossible, if it will help. How hard can it be to fake being normal for a few weeks?

Meanwhile, Gabe Lomas thought being his identical twin’s stunt double only involved driving race cars—not impersonating him at charity events in small-town Indiana. But when the movie studio execs set up the deal and Garrett’s fiancée says no way, Gabe trades his helmet for a fake smile and a very real problem.

The problem? Bernie Sawrey, all five-foot-nothing of her, with enough quirk and innocence to charm the grumpiest producer. That’s the problem.

Gabe is falling for her hard, only she thinks he’s his famous brother.

And she just might be falling for him too.

Now he’s caught between protecting his brother’s career and protecting his own heart. Because telling Bernie the truth might send her racing away—but not telling her guarantees he’ll lose her when she finds out.

Return to 1973 Kokomo, Indiana, where the cardinal in the sycamore knows that love—like a good engine—runs best when all the parts are genuine. A sweet, hilarious tale of mistaken identity, small-town charm, and finding love when you’re not even being yourself.

You will enjoy this sweet, quirky tale of secret twists, because sometimes the best love stories start with a little white lie and maybe a bit of motor oil.

Get your copy here!

Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

About the Author

Historical Christian romance author Jennifer Lynn Cary likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. She is also a direct descendant of Davy Crockett, which along with her Indy upbringing, adds fodder to her sweet/clean books. She and her husband make their home in Arizona where she shares her tales of heritage and small town life memories with her grandchildren. You can contact Jennifer via her website http://www.jenniferlynncary.com

My Impressions

“In this business, things look a lot different from what they are in reality. It’s all about the show, the magic, and the misdirection.”

I just love reading each successive novel in the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue by Jennifer Lynn Cary. I think I enjoy each one even more than the last. All the books are set in Kokomo, IN, in the 70s. Now we’re on book #8, Bernadette, about a young female grease monkey who poses to strangers as a male for safety and acceptance reasons. After all, women are not supposed to be interested in automobiles and their innards, how they work, and to beat all, how fast they can go around a speedway!

Our unorthodox car mechanic meets the race car driver of her dreams, Garrett Lomas, a Hollywood movie star. He and his entourage come to Kokomo to produce his newest racing movie, since Indy is close by. With a mind of her own, Bernie resents her “distant” step-mother’s insistence that Bernie help the town image by appearing at several public events with the movie star.

Just as Bernie has her secrets, so does Garrett. Garrett’s secrets don’t just belong to him, however. They’re shared, and the keeping and the revealing will surely hurt more than just himself!

This mental drive back into the 70s was so much fun. I tried hard not to sing along to “Bad, Bad, LeRoy Brown” with Jim Croce ( and failed, of course)! How Cary keeps coming up with new 70s references always amazes me, but they’re always spot on and bring such warm fuzzies on remembrance! Here’s looking at you, HoJo’s!

What really makes me love this book and Cary’s others, is the spiritual depth. “If God is in it, there’s no such thing as a little thing. He can make the amazing and astonishing even out of the tiniest offering. Just trust Him.” So says Roberta, Bernie’s stepmother. Roberta truly does care about Bernie, which Bernie begins to see as she lowers her defenses and listens.

Certainly, our two main characters must trust God to guide them, many times out of troubles of their own making. Many times each prays earnestly for guidance in their confusing circumstances.

Overall, I loved this novel. It has a great spiritual growth arc and is basted in historical romance and sprinkled with humor.

I received a copy of the book from the author through JustReads. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“ ‘Bernadette, you are a breath of fresh air.’ But how would she feel if she learned what a phony he was?”

“…he’d told the truth, but all in an arena of lies.”

“…the only place she felt valued and understood was her dad’s garage. Everyone there accepted her. No one expected her to get all girly.”

“You are who you are. No mistakes.”

“This was Benjamin Franklin with the kite and the key level of electrical excitement.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! I am loving each of these 70s historical romances even better than the ones before!

ARC, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, Launch Team, Purchase

Love in Time by Penny A. Zeller Review

December 16, 2025December 21, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: Love in Time

Series: Hollow Creek Series, Bk #3

Author: Penny Zeller

Publisher: Maplebrook Publishing, LLC

Released: December 16, 2025

Genre: Christian historical romance

He’s running from his past.
She’s seeking a better future.

After a long and debilitating illness that leaves Arrosa Chapman with severe weakness necessitating the use of a cane and the threat of future health issues, she determines to make a new life as a nanny for Thad and Emilie Evanson in Hollow Creek, Montana. Away from the city that holds family secrets, Arrosa is content to begin a new life caring for children since she will most likely never marry and have any of her own. She doesn’t expect to meet a handsome and rugged ranch hand named Malachi Callahan, whose kind and gentle nature is just what she longs for after suffering a broken heart.

Malachi Callahan has been given a second chance. He works hard on the Evanson Ranch to prove he’s nothing like his father. What he doesn’t expect is to meet a beautiful and compassionate woman named Arrosa Chapman. It’s not long before his feelings for her go beyond friendship.

When someone from the past finds Malachi and threatens him and the woman he loves, Malachi finds himself in the fight of his life to save them both.

Love in Time is a tender love story that reminds us that God’s timing is always perfect.

Enjoy Love in Time after reading Love in Store and/or Love in Disguise, or enjoy it as a standalone.

Paperback version coming soon.

*Please note: Love in Time is a faith-filled Christian historical romance.**

Other happily-ever after romances by Penny Zeller:

Historical Romance
Love’s New Beginnings
Forgotten Memories
Dreams of the Heart
When Love Comes
Love’s Promise
Once Upon a Christmas
Over the Horizon
Dreams on the Horizon
Beyond the Horizon
Love on the Horizon
Love in Disguise
Love in Store
Love in Time
Love from Afar
Love Unforeseen
Love Most Certain
Levi’s Vow
Heart of Courage
A Christmas to Remember
A Promise to Keep
McKenzie
Freedom’s Flight
An Unexpected Arrival (newsletter subscribers)

Contemporary Romance
Love in the Headlines
Recipe for Love
Under the Mistletoe
Blueprint for Love
Love Under Construction
Henry and Evaline

Romantic Suspense
Unexpected Witness
Unexpected Danger
Unexpected Target
Forgotten Identity
Deadly Secrets
Deadly Schemes

About the Author

Penny Zeller is known for her stories of faith-filled happily ever afters with tender romance, humor, and memorable characters. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications. Today, Penny is a multi-published, award-winning author of over three dozen books. She is also a fitness instructor, loves the outdoors, and is a flower gardening addict. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, reading, running, and playing volleyball. She resides with her husband and two daughters in small-town America and loves to connect with her readers on social media and through her website.

My Impressions

“Maybe what he really sought was a place to belong. A place where those around him accepted him. Even cared about him.”

As with others of Penny Zeller’s Christian historical romances, Love in Time is a poignant story of two souls with different soul needs, wondering if they dare bare their hearts to another. Told with an easy-going style, humor, and real faith lessons that can be applicable to life today, Love in Time captured my heart.

Secrets from the past is something both Malachi and Arrosa have in common. Why does Arrosa have the manners and memories of high society, yet need to work as a nanny? Why can Malachi never seem to open up about his boyhood experiences to Arrosa, no matter how much she shares with him?

Family. Such an important part of this story. Arrosa is very close to her sister and mother, and even her absent father. Each affects how Arrosa ends up in Hollow Creek. I loved those connections and those of the Evanson family, and how they treat their workers as part of their family. What a positive influence! And then there is Malachi. Doing his best to break free from his original father, he has been searching for belonging ever since. Will he find it on the Everson ranch and with his close friend, Arrosa?

I loved how there are people with physical limitations in the book. This gives the characters a special need to develop perseverance and grit ( and do they!). It also gives others an opportunity, esp. our hero, Malachi, to look for ways to be a special and effective helper.

There were a few heartbreaking scenes in the novel, plus a few twists that caused me quite a bit of consternation, let alone the characters affected!!

But what I loved best of all, was couched in this gentle western romance, are Truths the characters learned that we would do well to heed today. “Why was it such a challenge to forget the past? The Lord had given him a future.” This particular truth would’ve been a whole lot easier for Malachi to practice if he didn’t feel tied to his past, and if it didn’t come back to strangle him! And as Arrosa says, thinking of her past health challenges and how they could affect her future, “I find myself entrenched in trepidation, even though I know the Lord will carry me through whatever I may face.” Arrosa also personally gives me new insight into how frightened my own mother must have been years ago when she contracted Arrosa’s disease.

I must say, my fave secondary characters are the children, but especially little Mamie. And the barn scene ! Le sigh! True love causes us to do strange and wonderful things!!

I received a copy of the book from the author. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“I do know the Lord does have plans for him. He is the God of second chances.” -Arrosa

“And just remember, you, with the Lord’s help, will make choices in this life. Choices to be like your pa or choices to be just the opposite.” – Barnabas

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! All the feels, all the Truth!

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Launch Team, Love Inspired Suspense, Purchase

Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink Review and Giveaway

December 15, 2025December 18, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Scent of Sabotage

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: December 30, 2025

Detective Beth Wolfe’s reunion with investigative journalist Jack St. James is a matter of life or death—and when a masked assailant attacks them, a severe blow leaves Jack with amnesia. Beth and her K-9, Arthur, are determined to keep Jack safe while he regains his lost memories. Was he targeted due to a case he was working on…or does it have something to do with the son they placed for adoption decades ago? When their investigations lead them inside a booby-trapped amusement park, it’s a race against the clock to put all the pieces together and uncover the park owners’ nefarious plot…or die trying.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and a Holt Medallion winner. She is the author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Revell and Poisoned Pen Press.

More from Dana

How could we be at the end of a series? I’ve been having a wonderful time with the Wolfe family and their house full of hounds. The last book is finally Beth’s story. She’s the matriarch of the family who has experienced the loss of a spouse. In this story, she will meet the son she never knew and explore the idea of learning to love again. I feel especially fond of this book because Beth is an older heroine who has some living under her belt. She’s learned how to carry on, with her old dog Arthur, and stand faithfully in the face of adversity. Now that’s a heroine I can root for! I hope you enjoy this final installment of the Security Hounds series!

My Impressions

“A wound she’d carried for thirty-eight years had broken open, and she wasn’t sure how to bind up the ragged edges.”

Aw, the final chapter ( book) in the Security Hounds Investigation series by Dana Mentink. How bittersweet! Scent of Sabotage is a welcome and fast-paced addition to the series, featuring matriarch Beth Wolfe, who has been the backbone of the family and their bloodhound team leader. A widow of several years, Beth is shocked to get a text out of the blue from Jack, a man she hasn’t seen in 30 years.

Jack’s sudden request to see her brings to the surface a multitude of unwelcome memories and emotions. None of Beth’s family are aware of this part of her past, except her deceased husband . Before Jack can confirm Beth’s fears, though, the attacks begin and Jack and Beth begin to run for their lives.

One reason Beth and Jack are largely on their own, is Beth’s reluctance to let go of her hidden past. She has many talented adult children who are people seekers along with their bloodhound counterparts, yet Beth keeps them out of the loop. “…maybe because she didn’t want them to have a chance to ask him too many questions about their past? Her scars were deep. His too.”

So many times, my heart ached for the help that could have been theirs with a little more forthcoming with Beth’s family. But don’t we act like that in real life sometimes? Trying to find our way on our own, without the help of others, because of fear of what they may think of us?

I give Jack points for being wise. Although he originally tells Beth, “…I don’t need a wingman,” he quickly realizes he is not going to dissuade Beth from joining his investigation. At that point, he doesn’t waste a lot of time trying. When Beth gets upset at him over matters, he doesn’t take it personally, but realizes that her reaction is normal. This patient man will go far!

And the requisite goofy bloodhound. Meet old, arthritic Arthur. He could only be a liability, right? But no, this elderly dog is an unexpected hero to both canine and people alike. I was amazed.

The mystery is well-plotted. I loved the amusement park setting and the twists certainly surprised me. I would not have survived this adventure, pure and simple!!

And, of course, Mentink made me feel like I was in the middle of the action with Beth and Jack. Fortunately for me, the reader, Mentink inserts some humor and witty comebacks that break the tension. Otherwise, this story will really cause the blood pressure to skyrocket!

I received a copy of the book from the author and from Celebrate Lit via BookFunnel. I also pre-ordered my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“God has a way of growing people up, doesn’t He?” – Jack

“She wasn’t his. She never was and never would be, but during occasional sleepless nights, he allowed himself to stray to the “what could have beens.” Deadly and depressing. God didn’t want him to dwell in the past.” (Jack)

“…everyone’s an enemy until we’re shown otherwise.” – Jack

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! Action, twists, faith, romance, humor, and dogs! I will miss the Wolfes and their bloodhounds!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 16

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 16

The Avid Reader, December 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 17

Pause for Tales, December 18

EmpowerMoms, December 18

Bizwings Blog, December 19

Texas Book-aholic, December 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 20

Alyssa Amey, December 20

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 21

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 21

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 22

For Him and My Family, December 22

Devoted To Hope, December 23

Blogging With Carol, December 23

Because I said so, December 24

Artistic Nobody, December 25 (Guest Review from Donna)

Lily’s Corner, December 26

Mary Hake, December 26

Labor Not in Vain, December 27

Blossoms and Blessings, December 27

Holly’s Book Corner, December 28

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 28

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, December 29

Lights in a Dark World, December 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/T2I2F/scent-of-sabotage-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Purchase

Love on the Horizon by Penny Zeller Review and Giveaway

December 10, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Love on the Horizon

Author: Penny Zeller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: October 28, 2025

Will she find a fresh start in Horizon?

Magnolia “Mags” Davenport has not had an easy life. When the opportunity arises for her to move halfway across the country from Chicago to Horizon, will she get the new beginning her heart craves?

Four things of importance matter in Timothy Shepherdson’s life—faith, family, farming, and food. After a difficult start, will a beautiful newcomer to Horizon be added to his list?

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.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Penny Zeller is known for her stories of faith-filled happily ever afters with tender romance, humor, and memorable characters. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications. Today, Penny is a multi-published author of over two dozen books. She is also a fitness instructor, loves the outdoors, and is a flower gardening addict. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, reading, running, and playing volleyball. She resides with her husband and two daughters in small-town America and loves to connect with her readers.

More from Penny

Sneak peek into Love on the Horizon

The best dreams were the ones that came true.

And Magnolia Davenport’s dreams were about to come true. She could feel it in her bones, as old Mrs. Fryman used to say.

She took a step back and scanned the bustling city. Hadn’t she read in a discarded newspaper that Chicago had reached over a million people? Yes, her decision to travel West would be a good one.

The train depot beckoned her, and she entered the stately brick Dearborn Station with its enormous clock tower. Folks hurried in every direction. Hopefully, with twenty-some railroad lines and countless departures, one of those departures would surely lead her to the new life that awaited her.

No one would be the wiser that a twenty-three-year-old woman would be boarding for free.

For what could she do? The two dollars she’d saved would only be for absolute necessities.

The lines to purchase tickets meandered through the building. Mags stood on tiptoe to see the departure signs when she noticed a wealthy couple in front of her in deep conversation.

“I anxiously anticipate seeing our grandchildren again,” the woman, who wore an elegant dress of the latest fashion, said.

“Yes, well, I’m never fond of visiting Horizon, but I know how much it means to you, and it’s been all of two months since we saw the grandchildren.”

“Indeed, Bertram. I miss them the second we board the train for Denver, and this time, having been in Maryland, I miss them all the more. Besides, Horizon is such a lovely place, and the people are so kind. I’ve actually made a few friends there.”

The man named Bertram, in the finest of silk hats, grunted. “Yes, Gladys, we all know you’ve made friends in Horizon.”

The topic that Bertram and Gladys spoke about intrigued Magnolia, and she stepped closer. Horizon sounded like just the place she’d like to live, especially if people were kind. Goodness knows she’d had her share of spiteful and cruel people in Chicago—many of whom were related.

My Impressions

“The best dreams were the ones that came true.”

A breath of fresh air. Penny Zeller’s historical romances set in the West are always a joy to read. A gentle romance, soaked in faith, coated with humor, and easy to read, Love on the Horizon is the fourth novel in the Horizon series. This is Mags’ and Timothy’s story. And what a story it is! With a vibe akin to the Little House series on TV, we see hurting hearts longing for belonging.

Mags is the most prominent hurting heart. Little by little, her childhood trauma is laid bare. We see her desperation to be on her own, so much that she would attempt to ride the rails (without paying) all the way from Chicago to Idaho. Much humor results, and Mags is amazing in her quick-wittedness and her ability to con people. But her conscience is calling. Or is that the God Mags has decided isn’t listening to her prayers?

I loved the other main character, Timothy, and how his family is so warm and loving. And loud, and nosy, and concerned that Timothy needs a beau! And spectacles! Interesting view on spectacles back then. I’m glad times have changed, or I think there’d be a lot of near-sighted people stumbling around! Timothy’s best quality may be that he cares for others in need. And he takes action.

Not only does Mags originally come to his attention this way, but so does my fave secondary character, Ozias. Part young boy, part entrepreneur, part shyster, and part provider, it’s impossible not to love this imp as Zeller draws him. “If we see a way we can make a difference, then the Lord expects us to step up and do so.” I am amazed at the results a caring man, family, and town can make.

Will Mags be able to accept that God has not answered all of her prayers as she wanted, but He still loves her and is giving her a second chance? Will Timothy overcome his pride to accept his limitations and the help available?

I definitely hope that there will be one more book. Ozias deserves his own story!

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Honesty is always best.”

“When we surrender our lives to Him, it doesn’t mean our lives will be easy. Or that we won’t struggle. Or that we don’t grieve.”- Mrs. Shepherdson

“Isn’t it true that our God is a God of second chances and third chances and fourth chances? – Mags

“We never walk through those painful times alone. In His Word, God tells us He never leaves us. He walks through those times with us, that He is close to the brokenhearted.” – Mrs. Shepherdson

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! My heart is refreshed after reading this fun novel!

Blog Stops

Madi’s Musings, December 4

lakesidelivingsite, December 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 7

Artistic Nobody, December 8 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Pens Pages & Pulses, December 9

Texas Book-aholic, December 10

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , December 11

Cover Lover Book Review, December 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 13

Devoted To Hope, December 14

A Reader’s Brain , December 15 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, December 15

Connie’s History Classroom, December 16

Holly’s Book Corner, December 17

Pause for Tales, December 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Penny is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3e36f/love-on-the-horizon-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Purchase

Love in the Castle Library by Ann Swindell Review and Giveaway

December 7, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Love in the Castle Library (In the Castle Library Book 2)

Author: Ann Swindell

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Release Date: October 15, 2025

Predictability and efficiency have marked Delphine DuVert’s orderly life as Castle Stewardess in the small European country of Lethersby—until she is tasked by the monarchy to hire a British researcher. Lethersby needs help solving the 100-year-old mystery of their Lost Queen, a young royal who disappeared into the night during World War I.

Delphine’s split-second decision to hire Jack Worthington, a doctoral student at the University of Oxford, has long-lasting consequences when he steps in to protect her from an angry colleague determined to ruin her life. The only catch? That protection looks like Jack posing as her beau.

Jack Worthington believes that his instinct to protect Delphine was the right one, but he’s determined to stay focused on his research for Lethersby—and keep his emotional distance after reeling from a broken heart. Yet as the clues to discovering the Lost Queen’s story unravel and the Delphine’s future hangs in the balance, both Jack and Delphine must step out in faith, choosing to trust that what God has ahead for them is worth any risk.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

ANN SWINDELL writes stories that point to Christ’s presence in our day-to-day lives and the hope He brings to our hearts. She is the award-winning author of multiple books and the owner of Writing with Grace, where she teaches Christ-centered writing classes for women. Ann lives in West Michigan, and she enjoys adventuring with her family…usually with a cup of Earl Grey tea in hand.

More from Ann

Love in the Castle Library is set in two of my favorite places—one imaginary, and one real. When I started the In the Castle Library series, the main character’s journey in book one (Christmas in the Castle Library) takes her to Lethersby, a small, fictional European country full of tradition, beauty, and charm. I tried to put much of what I love about Europe into this fictional country that I wish existed. From what readers have told me, they wish it was real, too!

Book two, Love in the Castle Library, is also set in the castle in Lethersby, but I decided to make my hero and heroine take a jaunt to Oxford, England—my favorite real country outside of the USA.

I spent a summer in college studying abroad in England, and Oxford was the city that captured my heart. The “city of dreaming spires” is ancient, beautiful, and academic—a heady mix for a nineteen-year-old girl who traveled there for the first time. I even gave a nod to one of Oxford’s most well-known professors through the hero’s name, Jack.*

I had the gift of getting to go back to Oxford with my family over a decade ago, and while I’m aching to go again, including some of my favorite places in Love in the Castle Library helped me to enjoy the city vicariously through my characters. Look for some of my favorite places to eat—including Ben’s Cookies and the King’s Arms—when the characters visit. And if you ever have the opportunity to make it to Oxford, make the effort to buy one of those cookies (they’re sold by weight!) and enjoy some ice cream at G&D’s…the hero recommends chocolate of any kind (and so do I!).

I hope you love this story as much as I do, and that these tastes of beautiful places, both real and imagined, point your heart to the beauty of Christ that is at the heart of every story I write.

*Jack was C.S. Lewis’s nickname, and he taught at Magdalen College in Oxford from 1925-1954.

My Impressions

“You cannot lose what you already possess.”

Where was this book when I needed it many years ago?! Now I know what all the hype is about concerning Love in the Castle Library by Ann Swindell. While I appreciated having read the previous book, Christmas in the Castle Library, I believe Love in the Castle Library could stand by itself.

This book is a Christian Princess Diaries-type book, with romance, liberal Scriptures sprinkled in, and a bit of castle fairy dust.

The small country of Lethersby is still looking for answers regarding its Queen Alma who abdicated during the Great War. While characters in the last book began unraveling her secrets, many more exist. Castle steward Delphine fears for her job as a vindictive researcher looks for a way to remove her. Having succeeded her father in this role, her job, done perfectly, means everything to Delphine. The Queen once tells Delphine,“Your work does not need to be perfect to be successful.” Yet, Delphine’s need for approval from a cold, “job-first” father causes her to push herself beyond reasonableness and ability to relax.

The castle library, with its one-of-kind books, old volumes, and even a spiritual atmosphere is again a setting for romance. This time, the hero is a British WWII nurse researcher that Delphine herself hires to help Lethersby find Alma. Jack has great instincts, and isn’t afraid to stand up to the resident bully. To help Delphine save face in crisis, Jack offers to be her fake beau. We all know those arrangements lead to misunderstandings and heartaches!

The idea that touched me the most, though, was the great asset that a loving father is. And what an impediment when one has a father who is cold and distant. We are treated to see two different fathers. One blesses his child by showing how a Heavenly Father can then love. One curses his child by making the Heavenly Father’s love difficult to understand and receive.

I loved how Jack realizes he cannot solve the Lethersby mystery on his own, but frequently prays to God for help. “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” is one verse Jack remembers when the research seems to stall. So many verses are important in this story, but another one that goes along with Jack’s impossible puzzle is this verse: “It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out.”

I add my voice in highly recommending this wonderful book. All the feels, and then some. And lots of Truth packaged in, as well! I can’t wait for book three!

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“You’re good at finding lost things, God. You see where they are. Nothing is really lost to You.” Please, Father, give me your eyes to see.” – Jack

“God was not only greater than her worries; the Bible said that He lavished his love on her as His child.” – (Delphine)

“History has been broken by men who refused to stand up to bullies. That won’t be said of the Worthingtons. We defend the helpless, protect the weak, and fight against evil in any form.” – Jack’s father

“I know what it’s like to seem very put together on the outside but still be a mess on the inside.” – Jack

“…sometimes our wounds are the very thing that heals us.” – Kent

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! All the nearly-royal vibes, Truth, satisfying mystery, and romance!

Blog Stops

To Everything There Is A Season, December 6

Mary Hake, December 6

Lily’s Corner, December 7

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 8

Where Faith and Books Meet, December 8

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 9

Inkwell Inspirations , December 10

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, December 10

Devoted Steps, December 11

Texas Book-aholic, December 12

Holly’s Book Corner, December 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 15

Devoted To Hope, December 16

Stories By Gina, December 17 (Author Interview)

Lyssa Loves Books, December 17

Simple Harvest Reads, December 18 (Guest Review from Donna)

Raining Butterfly Kisses, December 19

The Bookish Pilgrim, December 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Ann is giving away the grand prize of a $50 gift card to Amazon and a signed paperback copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3e375/love-in-the-castle-library-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Purchase, Wild Heart Books

Gathered from the North by Barbara A. Curtis Review and Giveaway

December 4, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Gathered from the North

Author: Barbara A. Curtis

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: November 18, 2025

He survived the war, but he didn’t come home whole. Hope of a ready-made family promises healing—until he learns the truth about his love’s adopted baby.

Beth Calloway has always longed for a family, but after a childhood marked by loss, she’s learned to live quietly—typing reports at the Boise Foundling Home and keeping her heart carefully tucked away. Until one snowy night, a baby is left on her doorstep. With no room at the orphanage and no one else to help, she takes the risk…never expecting the handsome wounded soldier next door to take notice.

Recently discharged from the army, Private Timothy McPhearson is a man on a mission. Haunted by his best friend’s death during WWII, he’s determined to uncover the truth—and escape the guilt that won’t let him go. Falling for his grandmother’s quiet tenant and the baby she’s sheltering isn’t part of the plan…but Beth and little Elly Rose begin to chip away at the walls he’s built.

Just as the three begin to imagine life as a family, a shattering revelation threatens to tear them apart. When the truth about baby Elly Rose comes to light—and danger closes in—Beth must fight to protect the child she’s come to love…even if it means letting go of the man who’s claimed her heart.

A heart-tugging postwar romance of second chances, found family, and love worth risking everything for.

Click here to get our copy!

About the Author

Barbara A. Curtislives in Connecticut with her husband, and they have one grown son, a blessing to their hearts. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Novel Academy.

More from Barbara

In Gathered from the North, Mrs. McPhearson’s first step in solving a problem is to sit down with a cup of tea. During the same year of 1945, another tea drinker in real life—Ruth Campbell Bigelow—was enjoying tea in her New York brownstone and experimenting with finding a flavorful blend using black tea, orange rind, and sweet spices. When she hit upon the final recipe, Constant Comment was born, along with the Bigelow Tea Company.

While flavored teas are easy to find in grocery stores, tea shops, and online now, we can be grateful for Ruth Campbell Bigelow’s days of experimentation in her own kitchen, as Constant Comment was the first specialty tea in the United States. And where did the name come from? When she shared her new tea with others, one reported that this tea “caused nothing but constant comments.”

I hope you enjoy Gathered from the North—perhaps over a cup of tea, specialty blend or otherwise.

Blessings!

Barbara

My Impressions

“Elly reminds me that there is hope for the hopeless, that there’s life and still something to live for. Like God is saying through her, ‘I care.’”

This third book of the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series, Gathered from the North, certainly found a place in my heart. Barbara A. Curtis pens a touching and convicting historical romance that starts in a foundling home in Boise, ID.

Beth, a young lady who longs for children and family, but feels incompetent in childcare, finds herself an adoptive, single mother. And one whose choice for motherhood ends her romantic liaison as well as her job. She is blessed to have a wonderful landlady, Mrs. MacPhearson.

Mrs. MacPhearson, in turn, has a grandson, Timothy, who is returning from the German front near the war’s end. Discharged with a mark against his name as a victim of “combat fatigue,” Timothy can’t find a job. Bitter, searching for the truth that will set him free, he struggles as he remembers the words of his soldier buddy and best friend, Stanley. “Remember those words, Timothy… Praise the Lord for His goodness. Hold on to that.”

I loved the poignant story of children needing a family, adult children needing acceptance and love, and the wonderful use of twists to craft an amazing story. Both Grandma MacPhearson’s house and the ranch are painted as being filled with a love that envelops and invites one in. I also loved the reminders to look for reasons to praise God, even in the dark times. As Timothy and Beth are reminded multiple times of blessings that should help them trust God through their next trial, I realized I have the same problem. I had to admit as I read of the characters’ trust struggles, how little I trust the Lord, even after seeing examples of His caring in the past.

While the young people are the stars of the book, it is the older generation that provides the wisdom, love, guidance, and even help that enable both Beth and Timothy to become all God wants them to be. Just as Beth tells Timothy, “Every man’s efforts count.” So, in life, every one has a part to play to help others.

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also purchased my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Everyone needs to be loved.” – Beth

“some wounds went too deep for words.”

“This is what neighbors do for each other. What Christ has commanded us to do. To serve others and to love them. We show our love by our service.” Mrs. Connor

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent!! Beautiful story that provides great faith reminders!

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 3

Sydney Schmied Books, December 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 4

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 5

Texas Book-aholic, December 6

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 8

For Him and My Family, December 9

Simple Harvest Reads, December 10 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Bizwings Blog, December 11

Connie’s History Classroom, December 12

lakesidelivingsite, December 13

Cover Lover Book Review, December 13

Devoted To Hope, December 14

Stories By Gina, December 15 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, December 15

Pause for Tales, December 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Barbara is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3e368/gathered-from-the-north-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Purchase

Mail Order Duchess by Misty M. Beller Review and Giveaway

December 2, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Mail-Order Duchess

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Five sons of an English duke, all raised in the Rocky Mountains…

A marriage born of duty. A love neither expected.

When Enoch Balfour’s eldest brother tragically dies, the weight of family responsibility falls on his shoulders. Now this Montana rancher must train for his role as the next Duke of Clarence—and marry the mail-order bride his brother sent for. Hardened by loss, Enoch has no intention of opening his heart to a stranger, but duty demands he produce an heir.

Mandie Beaumont is a desperate young widow fleeing the sinister advances of her brother-in-law. After arriving in the Montana Territory to marry a man she’s never met, an accident leaves her robbed of her recent memories—memories that conceal a devastating secret. When she discovers she’s carrying a child conceived through betrayal and violence, Mandie fears rejection and ruin. Yet, in Enoch, she finds an unexpected protector whose fierce gentleness makes her long to trust again.

Though Mandie’s charm and resilience begin to thaw Enoch’s guarded heart, he struggles with his fear of loss. When Mandie’s past resurfaces, Enoch must risk everything to save her. If he fails, Mandie will be torn from him—and the love they’ve begun to embrace could be lost forever.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a royal family saga featuring a mail-order bride, amnesia, a secret baby, and an aristocratic marriage of convenience…all set in the rugged Montana Territory.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Misty M. Beller is a USA Todaybestselling author with over 1 million books sold. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

More from Misty

Hello Reader Friends!

I’m BEYOND excited to share a brand new series with you! This idea has been percolating in my mind for a couple years now—a mash-up of two of my favorite historical romance genres: Regency England and the rugged American West.

In the Lords of the Rockies series, you’ll meet the five sons of an English duke who were sent to the wilds of the Montana Territory for their protection when they were boys. They’ve grown up there, become ranchers and mountain men in their own right.

It’s Regency meets the Rockies as these aristocratic brothers navigate the challenges of ranch life.

I’m especially excited to introduce you to the first book in the series, Mail-Order Duchess!

Enoch Balfour is one of my all-time favorite heroes…so incredibly swoony. He’s the second son, which means he never thought he would have to return to England and take over his father’s role as the Duke of Clarence. But now his eldest brother has passed in an unexpected riding accident. And Enoch has become the heir intended.

Can you imagine how hard that must have been? Suddenly having to leave the only life you’ve ever known to take up the duties of a title an ocean away?

And then there’s Mandie Beaumont, a young widow hoping for a fresh start in Montana. But when she arrives, an accident steals her recent memories, leaving her with no idea why she left her comfortable life in Savannah to travel across the country and marry a rancher she’s never met. Or maybe her previous life wasn’t so comfortable…

Can you imagine waking up one day to find yourself in a strange place with no recollection of how you got there or what you were running from?

I don’t want to give away too much, but let’s just say Mail-Order Duchess has all the ingredients for a story you won’t be able to put down—a marriage of convenience, hidden secrets, and an unlikely romance blossoming in the face of incredible odds. I’m so excited to share this story with you!

I’ve had such fun crafting the unique premise of an English aristocratic family making their way in the American West. Get ready for more heartfelt Western adventures tinged with Regency flair as the Lords of the Rockies series continues!

I pray you love Mail-Order Duchess!

Blessings!

Misty

My Impressions

“William’s bride arrived today.” – Thomas

Such an innocuous statement. If only! Misty Beller successfully sets up another series, this one also a family of brothers needing wives. In her newest series, Lords of the Rockies, Beller combines the Old West mountain frontier with Regency romance. Book one, Mail Order Duchess, introduces us to the five brothers, minus one. William, the one who wrote East for the mail order bride, dies before his intended, Mandie Beaumont, reaches the ranch. Hop down a stair from first brother to second brother, Enoch. Raw with grief, duty-bound to take over his brother’s roles including returning to England as the next Duke, Enoch discovers communication in the West can be faulty. Now, a woman he’s way too attracted to, is staying at the ranch, and as oldest, it’s his duty to make sure Mandie stays safe. Not easy when she arrives with amnesia and secrets.

I loved getting to know the four remaining brothers a little. Each presents enough that my appetite is ready for their individual story. And of course, Enoch is our main “hurt” hero. He’s lost so many people dear to him, he now has erected walls of bronze around his heart. As Mandie comes to know him a bit, she asks him about his past. ‘It’s in the past. I’ve learned to live with it.’ ‘But you haven’t learned to live beyond it.’ ”

Could a Southern Belle really transplant well into the untamed land of Montana territory? Enoch has his doubts as he first meets Mandie. “This territory didn’t care about grit or good intentions- it chewed up the strong and the weak alike.”

Beller works her writerly magic on the words that flow, beautifully describing the open sky and mountainous scenery. If I could sketch, I could sketch a drawing of the ranch in different scenes. I could certainly imagine myself as Mandie, in the ranch cabin, laughing with the brothers, talking with Enoch, trying to reason away his resistance. Or being Enoch and trying so hard to keep his heart safe. Can God help these two get beyond themselves before they destroy any chance of happiness together?

Beller also adds in just enough danger and twists to keep the fingers flipping the pages. And at the end, like me, the reader will probably find themselves begging for the next brother’s story already!

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“She knew what it was to pretend at normalcy while your heart bled in secret.”

“Is it really better, though? To hold yourself apart, to never let yourself fully love or be loved, because you’re afraid of the pain?” – James

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! Great start to new series mash-up!

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, December 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 2

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 3

Texas Book-aholic, December 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 4

Devoted Steps, December 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 5

Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 6

Simple Harvest Reads, December 6 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 7

For Him and My Family, December 7

Books You Can Feel Good About, December 8

Lyssa Loves Books, December 8

lakesidelivingsite, December 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9

Connie’s History Classroom, December 10

Artistic Nobody, December 10 (Guest Review from Donna)

Jeanette’s Thoughts , December 11

Melissa’s Bookshelf, December 11

Holly’s Book Corner, December 12

Mary Hake, December 12

Bizwings Blog, December 13

Cover Lover Book Review, December 13

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 14

Blossoms and Blessings, December 14

Pause for Tales, December 15

Devoted To Hope, December 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3e364/mail-order-duchess-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Kindle, Purchase

Vengeance in Vienna by Sara L. Jameson Review and Giveaway

December 1, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Vengeance in Vienna (Troubled Waters Book 3)

Author: Sara L. Jameson

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: July 16, 2024

A moonlight sail. A sniper on the shore. A terrorist financier determined to kill Jacob and all he holds dear.

Interpol Special Agent Jacob Coulter and his fiancée Riley Williams set out on a moonlight sail, but a sniper turns their idyllic Austrin vacation into a deadly nightmare.

On temporary assignment to the Vienna Interpol office, Jacob must apprehend a notorious terrorist financier and uncover his operations in Austria. But the financier is determined to destroy all Jacob holds dear. And that includes his kid sister and his fiancée, Riley Williams.

Opera singer Riley Williams is tired of dodging terrorist attempts on her life. When she insists on helping Jacob catch the financier and his henchmen, she gets into more trouble than she bargained for.

But the financier’s tentacles of evil reach far deeper into the Austrian economy than Jacob and Riley suspected. What they uncover appalls them. The clock is ticking. Can Jacob find them before it’s too late?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Sara L. Jameson won Scrivenings Press’s grand prize publishing contract in January 2021. They released her debut romantic suspense novel, Cruise to Death, in June 2021. Death in High Places, (Book 2 in the Troubled Waters series), released February 2023, followed by Vengeance in Vienna, July 2024. She is currently working on books 4 and 5 of the Troubled Waters series for Scrivenings Press.

In real life, Sara is a multi-published former university professor who has also written non-fiction under her real name and edits book manuscripts for other authors. She also pens WWII historical novels. When not at her computer, she enjoys reading, swimming, cooking, and dog-sitting.

More from Sara

Ever since childhood, I’ve loved to travel. Memories of family cross-country car trips still make me smile. Breakfast and lunch prepped from goodies chilled in the ice chest. Kellogg’s single-serve cereals or cake doughnuts with milk and juice. (Rare treats in our household.) A sandwich prepared at a roadside picnic table for lunch. As an adult, their lack of nutrition makes me shudder.

These days, my tastes have grown more sophisticated. Scrumptious buffet breakfasts in European or Asian hotels make my mouth water. Local dishes creep into my books. And no trip to Antwerp, Belgium is complete without a serious stop at a delectable chocolate shop. Naturally, for the reader’s sake, Sampling these treats for authenticity in the novel is a must, right?

While tempting the palate with sumptuous Viennese pastries at Heiner’s, my favorite Konditorei (pastry shop), Vengeance in Vienna whisks readers through the stunning Austrian countryside with assassins at Jacob and Riley’s backs, and a terrorist financier determined to destroy them. Dehmel’s is another Konditorei readers might want to visit. Both Konditoreien are steeped in history, atmosphere, and Old-World charm. Are you salivating yet?

Better yet, grab a copy of Vengeance in Vienna and curl up for a nail-biting armchair trip to beautiful Austria filled with heart-pounding romantic suspense.

My Impressions

“That verse in Psalm 92, God gives us the ability to stay calm in the time of adversity until the wicked have been caught. Right now, he needed an overdose of Godly calm.”

Kudos to Sara L. Jameson! In her third book of the Troubled Waters series, Vengeance in Vienna, Jameson totally changed my attitude towards the main characters.

First, a little catch up. Riley, an opera singer, and her fiancée, Jacob, an Interpol agent, are on a-separate-rooms vacation in Austria. But that is also a cover for Jacob’s team to sniff out international terrorist financier Armand and his money laundering businesses. Unfortunately, Armand seems to be one step ahead of Jacob and Riley, and he doesn’t allow betrayers or enemies to survive. Thus, Riley and Jacob race around Vienna and the rest of Austria trying to both elude and capture Armand.

Plus there are a few problems on the home front. Jacob’s jealous coworker, Margot, dislikes Riley and seems determined to get Jacob off the job. Jacob’s parents are not happy with him… and neither is his much-younger teenage sister for whom he is supposedly guardian. And Riley insists on helping Jacob in his cases ( not so bad), but doesn’t listen to his direction ( not so good at all)!

Riley’s attitude became tiresome for me.“My dad is overprotective. He likes to rule the roost, tell us how to think, what to wear, what to do.” She stabbed a scallop. “And not to do.” I could understand it. But it came into play way too often and I wanted to ask her if she’d really considered what effects her attitude and action might have on Jacob’s job? Yikes, for being engaged, this couple has some issues to work through.

I liked seeing Riley’s character growth arc, especially as she emerges into a spiritual helpmeet for Jacob.

I did like that Jameson shows their strong faith by their frequent prayers, Bible verse repetitions at appropriate times, and just crying out to God in times of danger. I did have to laugh- Riley is able to squash many of her fears by recalling a certain Bible story and taking strength from that Biblical hero’s faith.

Somewhere along the way, the very real social evils that Jameson deals with, and the faith they use to combat it, move her characters from the two-dimensional world into our three-dimensional world. I could barely turn the pages fast enough at that point.

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Character had to be built, not bought.”

“ ‘Nevertheless, we must forgive others.’ The wetness from her tears dribbled onto his face. ‘And if we don’t forgive ourselves, guilt, shame, and condemnation will destroy us from the inside out.’ “ – Riley

“We’ve prayed about this. We must believe God has a solution.” – Riley