Bethany House, BLOG, Favorite, Kindle, Launch Team, NetGalley, PB, Purchase

Of Silver and Secrets by Michelle Griep

June 3, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book:

Title: Of Silver and Secrets

Series: Time’s Lost Treasures #2

Author: Michelle Griep

Publisher: Bethany House Fiction

Released: June 3, 2025

Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense

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.

“Sure to delight fans of archaeological adventure and historical romance.”–JULIE KLASSEN, bestselling author

Dive into the past in this clean historical romance as Michelle Griep transports you to Victorian England with an appealing mix of mystery, Roman archaeology, and charming banter. This enthralling tale will appeal to fans of Mimi Matthews, Andrea Penrose, Anna Lee Huber, and Miss Scarlet and the Duke.

Get your copy below!!

https://www.amazon.com/Silver-Secrets-Victorian-Archeological-Treasures/dp/0764242571

My Impressions

“The end of Eva’s world started with a window she never should have left open.”

Whew! What a gripping, suck-you-in-like-a-whirlpool opening sentence!Michelle Griep pens this Victorian romance with such beautiful, flowing artistry that I often had to stop and reread a sentence or a whole paragraph. Just for the beauty of the construction. So I’m in love with the writing style.

And the characters. A young lady, Eva Inman, who is convinced her mistake twelve years earlier caused her mother’s death, her sister’s blindness, and their now-fatherless estate to be in extreme need of funds. The corresponding male main character, Professor Bram Webb, who knew Eva in childhood,now returns to create an archaeological dig on her estate lands. ( Webb must prove an ancient Christian civilization, hiding from Roman tyranny, existed on Inman land.) Eva doesn’t know if she’s attracted to the man from her past or if she despises Bram, the man she considers “the first in a string of people to leave her.”

In some ways, there are elements that give the novel the feel of a certain well-known fictional archaeological character. Fun. Yet, Bram’s reason for joining his uncle Pendleton on the dig are very self-sacrificing. I cannot imagine the fortitude Bram shows as he supports his history prof. uncle. I would have been explaining myself by this point. Eva doesn’t trust Bram becsuse of their childhood connection, but she fails to understand that Bram has undergone a transformation. Indeed, Bram has many enemies and people he would seem justified to hold a grudge against, but, instead of taking vengeance, he explains to Eva. “Perhaps his conscience is buried beneath layers of deceit and bitterness, yet it is not beyond redemption. Harsh words and flying fists will not change his heart. Only God can do that.” How he moves from ready-to-fight anger to a willingness to hand his enemy over to God speaks so much for his character!

A great supporting character is Penny, Eva’s outgoing, curious, and unafraid blind sister. Penny is 13 going on 30. How will Eva ever keep her charge safe?

Twists! This novel has some truly great ones. My eyes widened as I read many times, surprised at how each successive obstacle worked out!

Stars and thunder!! I was unhappy when I finished the book! I loved Of Silver and Shadows so much, with its many themes, truth nuggets, amazing romance and twists. I just didn’t want it to end!! My definition of a perfect book!

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

Notable Quotables:

“…though truth might be absolute, discerning the right course of action when living that truth was often anything but obvious.”

“It is easy to judge from the outside, but we can never truly understand the burdens others carry or the choices they feel forced to make. We are all fallen creatures.”

“Love is a gift, worth risking everything for… let nothing stand in your way.”

“The very first time you asked to be pardoned, you were. That is what grace is all about. “

“We are all tethered to something…When that tether snaps, as it is wont to do, this is when we realize the true extent of our faith.”

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

The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey

May 28, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Angel of Second Street

Author: Barbara Tifft Blakey

Genre: Christian Fiction/Romance/Historical Fiction

Release date: May 1, 2025

How Can Compassion be Considered Wrong?

When life is weighed down by challenges, pillars of enduring hope and love are always waiting to be discovered.

Ida Dempsey has grown up in a privileged life of luxury thanks to her aunt and uncle. Although Second Street—where women of ill repute ply their wares—is off limits to respectable citizens, her heart of compassion compels her to frequent the area, hoping to make a difference in their lives. Ida has also befriended Qui Shau, a Chinese woman who keeps house for her family, but friendships between the whites and Chinese are taboo in Eureka. Ida tries to keep secret her forbidden compassion, but someone is watching and will use it against her.

When Blaine Prescott meets Ida at a church picnic, his parents warn him away from any relationship with the young lady who has been seen on Second Street in the company of a Chinese woman. But how could such a kindhearted, lovely young woman be anything but good? But when riots break out in Chinatown and Ida disappears, Blaine will do anything to find out where and why she has gone.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Barbara Tifft Blakey lives in the Pacific Northwest on five wooded acres with Terry, her husband of forty-plus years. She is best known for her award-winning, literature-inspired, language arts program, Total Language Plus, which she created over twenty years ago, and is used by thousands of homeschoolers. Barbara teaches Sunday school and enjoys speaking on various topics to Christian women’s groups. She and her husband have four grown children and five grandchildren. She enjoys camping at the ocean and is an avid soccer fan. During the day-light challenged winter months, she reads, crochets, bakes, and plots her next novel.

More from Barbara

As the birthplace of my mother, Eureka, California holds a special charm for me intensified by my grandmother’s stories of the area. Every visit I’ve made has encouraged me to dig deeper, to learn more, to experience this small, coastal town’s magnetism.

Its history includes the Wiyot’s massacre on Indian Island which can be viewed from the harbor and the expulsion of the Chinese population from Humboldt County. Carson’s Mansion is the most photographed Victorian dwelling in California, and possibly the United States, built to keep the lumber baron’s loggers employed during a downturn in the timber industry. Because of the numerous brothels, an entire section of Second Street located in the heart of the community was deemed out of bounds for children.

Both hero and heroine in Angel of Second Street are fictional, but my cast of characters includes real-life people such as Reverend Huntington, David Kendall, and Wei Lum and real historical businesses such as Wells Drug Store and Kitty Farris’s Joy Emporium.

I first wrote a version of this story more than a decade ago, but who can argue with God’s timing? Events that happened over 150 years ago feel current in today’s political climate where fear tactics dominate debates and spur regrettable actions. I didn’t set out to make a political statement, only to tell an engaging, thought-provoking love story, but in the midst of relating historical events, a deeper truth emerged as relevant today as it was in the mid 1800s.

I pray you’ll journey with Ida and Blaine through the turmoil of their times and be enriched to face the trials of today with renewed hope.

My Impressions

“On my way to the picnic yesterday, I asked God to show me the woman He’d chosen to be my wife, someone who loves Jesus as much as I do. I saw you first.”

Wow! Barbara Tifft Blakey held me spellbound as she wove the historical story of 1884 Eureka, California, and its Chinatown. While I love to read historical romances, I am finding they are often not something I would want to live through. The Angel of Second Street tells of two young people who are immediately attracted to each other upon meeting. Rich, eligible Blaine sees beautiful Ida as a direct answer to his prayers for a godly mate. His family puts up every roadblock possible to keep the two apart, including throwing a family friend’s daughter into his path repeatedly.

I love Ida and Blaine. Both truly want to do more than follow society’s rules and make their families happy. Ida’s biggest wish in life is to tell others about Jesus. “God had opened the eyes of her heart, and everywhere Ida looked she saw hurting people. Even Mrs. Prescott.” She has a purpose, a mission, and a passion. She doesn’t give up. But she does battle within herself, having to deceive in order to carry out her definition of doing right. “Was anything more important than telling the lost about Jesus? But also important were the scriptural directives to obey one’s parents. In her case, didn’t that mean her aunt and uncle? Never before had she been forced to choose between two equally indispensable commands.” Blaine has his own struggles with his shipping tycoon father who has no interest in anyone’s true well-being.

Whew, it’s incredible the mental struggles both Ida and Blaine must wade through, accompanied by much prayer, to figure out the right path. Sometimes the paths they choose are funny. Sometimes the resulting paths are loaded with strife. I wondered if I’d be brave enough to choose some of the paths they did, or would I choose to please people and just make life easy?

I loved seeing the growth of thinking in both Ida and Blaine.

Some characters are surprising. How fun it was, to discover characters acting quite differently than what I expected of them! Great twists!

My fave character is Reverend Huntington. It took me a while to figure out how he feels about the workers from Chinatown that the town wants to expel, or the ladies of Second Street that Ida is determined to help. At first he is unwilling to encourage Ida in her endeavors. Eventually, we see him in another light.

It is so sad to see the general attitude of the town’s affluent businessmen. While their households and sometimes businesses benefit greatly from the Chinese workers, they despise them immensely. “Less than.” That is the rich, white opinion towards the Chinese. Blaine is like Ida in his disregard for class. He understands the prejudice he is seeing, directed at the Chinatown residents. “The way he saw it, the problems discussed were symptoms of underlying issues. Tackle those, and the contemptible manifestations would take care of themselves.” Hmmm… makes one think about today’s atmosphere of cancelling whole groups of people for the actions of a few.

This is long, I know. If you’re still with me, I have to comment on Blaine’s revelation to Ida of his prayer for God to show him a woman at the picnic who loved Jesus as much as he did. My husband relates a similar tale. He says God told him his future wife would be at his baptism. There were only two of us girls there that day near his age, and I was moving 5 hours away in a couple of months! We didn’t start seriously dating until 5 years later because of the distance, but, wow. I sure am glad he didn’t blurt out that declaration when he first was baptized!!😂

Notable Quotables:

“My heavenly Father is responsible for my joy—and for yours. You cannot protect me from this world’s trials. You don’t need to, because I have His defense and refuge.”- Ida

“If a man lost integrity, what did he have left?”

“I believe God is calling me to act, and I’m willing.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! My mind is whirling with the thoughts and implications of this story. Looking forward to the next!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 29

Pens Pages & Pulses, May 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 31

Texas Book-aholic, June 1

Stories By Gina, June 2 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, June 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 4

Simple Harvest Reads, June 5 (Guest Review from Donna)

For Him and My Family, June 6

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, June 6

Holly’s Book Corner, June 7

Pause for Tales, June 8

Cover Lover Book Review, June 9

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, June 9

Devoted To Hope, June 10

Bizwings Book Blog, June 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Barabara is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon e-Gift card and a print copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54231

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

To Kiss a Knight by Grace Hitchcock Review

May 20, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: To Kiss a Knight

Series: Best Laid Plans, Bk 2

Author: Grace Hitchcock

Publisher: Kregel

Released: May 20, 2025

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

When everything is going right, something must go wrong

Vivienne Poppy’s plans are working out quite well. She’s run away from her family and the prospect of a horrid marriage of convenience and plans to spend her time writing under her pseudonym, Lady Larkby. Until she discovers the old Larkby title is not as dead as she thought.

Yeoman of the Guard and recently knighted Sir Sebastian Larkby is stunned to discover a Lady Larkby that he does not remember marrying. Suddenly Vivienne is left with a choice: relinquish her pen name, expose her true identity, and break Sebastian’s dying grandmother’s heart—or feign marriage to Sebastian to keep the title and fulfill the old woman’s wishes.

This witty novel from award-winning author Grace Hitchcock is filled with scandal, mishap, and just the right amount of romance.

“A rollicking Regency with romance, danger, humor, and unexpected plot twists you won’t want to miss!”
—Crystal Caudill, Christy Award–winning author of Written in Secret

Get your copy by clicking below!

https://mybook.to/QPVfA

About the Author

Grace Hitchcock is the award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives in the New Orleans area with her husband, Dakota, sons, and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com.

My Impressions

“You should know that I was born with an extra dose of curiosity. It has never been kind to me, and no matter how hard I try to tame it, I fail when it matters most.”

Ah, travel back to the merry land of England in Victorian times. Grace Hitchcock has captured the essence of the era well in her novel, To Kiss a Knight. All is genteel and well, unless one is…well, actually, one of several people in this book! The first is rather day-dreamy authoress Vivienne, who unexpectedly finds herself in a jam. Trying to escape an arranged marriage, her stagecoach is hijacked by a highwayman. She comes to consciousness, finding herself slung over his shoulder, traveling horseback. While looking for an escape, our intrepid heroine is thrilled for new ideas for her next book, which, of course, is written under a pseudonym, “Lady Larkby.” After being delivered home by a very kind highwayman (“Goldie the Highwayman,” though he prefers the name Bash), Vivienne begins to plan times for the community of Bath, to get to know her as her author alter-ego.

This is well and good, (and worth plenty of smiles) until the Highwayman also is found to have an alter-ego. His is Sir Sebastian Larkby, which would make him the husband of our authoress. And so, this lark of a tale gets more tangled. When Sebastian’s ill grandmother hears from a gossip that he has married, she rallies. What will happen to her health, precarious as it is, if she hears that it is all a ruse?

This novel has lots of Victorian atmosphere, many laughs, and of course, romance between two unlikely people, plus a dab of suspense. I enjoyed a few twists that Hitchcock threw in. I’ll be going back to read the first novel in the series, To Catch a Coronet, and I’ll be anxious for the third to come!

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

Notable Quotables:

“Some adventuring pays in dividends, and others in disaster.”– Bash

“After all, a fictitious wife required a fictitious romance.”

“A thief who cared for the poor and a lady’s honor was a conundrum.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! Great Victorian atmosphere, with plenty of clean romance, secrets, and suspense!

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, Purchase

When Heaven Thunders Review and Giveaway

May 19, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: When Heaven Thunders (West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm #2)

Author: Kendy Pearson

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: October 1, 2024

When the devil wears Blue and Gray,

doing the right thing can be a thorny matter.

His family is missing. Bushwhackers are sleeping in his bed. This war just got a heap more personal for Union Sergeant Fin Dabney.

Fighting guerillas in your own neck of the woods comes at a high price. Neighbors, kin, and even Fin’s best friend are on the wrong end of a rifle. But not all battles are fought amid smoke and blood. When Fin faces a murderer from his past, flesh and spirit collide, but only one can prevail.

Melinda Jane has waited a lifetime for Fin to declare his intentions. But now she has moved on to other interests—with disastrous results. Her choices have cost her Fin’s love and possibly her life.

Why was it he could draw down on the enemy and look death in the eye, but he could not bring himself to deal plainly with Melinda Jane?

He never told her how he feels. Now he may never get the chance.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kendy Pearson is a worship leader, Bluegrass fiddler, and Civil War reenactment enthusiast. As a veteran high school teacher, she loves to discover a pocket of American history missing from the schoolbooks and turn that pocket inside out. Her novels lead fictitious characters through historical events and settings, engaging with period personalities. And she always includes a romantic thread to warm the heart. Every story is a journey through tragedy, secrets, regrets, and God’s undeniable grace.

She has received multiple lit awards and enjoys public speaking and teaching writing workshops. When she’s not clicking away on the computer or scaling mountains of research, she relishes ice cream, snowy days, fireplaces, and maple trees. Kendy is the mother of four grown children and lives with her sweet hubby and two amusing miniature dachshunds.

More from Kendy

Research and writing are so much fun! I always have some kind of theme in mind for every book I write. In keeping with my brand, Heart of History, I am turning two history pockets inside out with this second story of the “West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm” series. When Heaven Thunders is the eldest Dabney sibling’s story and brings two factors to light that are not commonly known about the Civil War.

First, Fin, the hero, faces various moral dilemmas just trying to carry out orders. He witnesses historically accurate atrocities and unfair tactics perpetrated by both Union and Confederate commanders and soldiers. Fin is in the thick of rooting out bushwhackers and guerillas who bring the battle to not just the soldiers, but to civilian homes and families, including his own.

Fin is a moralist, working desperately to find a way to do the right thing even when all his choices seem so very wrong. Can you imagine meeting your best friend on the battlefield and he’s the enemy? I tried to wrap my mind around the idea of neighbor against neighbor and lawless vigilantes molesting plain folks in the name of a cause. “We are in a war, yes, but it needn’t strip a man of his humanity or God’s favor.” (Col. Joseph Lightburn, Fin’s commander)

Secondly, Melinda Jane, the feisty family friend (who definitely wants to be more than Fin’s friend) represents another little-known pocket from history. I took a bit of my own heritage to heart for her background. For most of my life, I definitely resembled my kin of Irish ancestry. However, like Melinda Jane, I have Native American and African American genes also. We don’t think much about mixed race nowadays—it’s the fabric of our wonderful country! Unfortunately, many folks were not as accepting during the Civil War period. At that time, a variety of ethnicities were actually enslaved, which we seldom see represented in Civil War movies and stories.

My second main character’s “secret” lends to her heart of gold and a compassionate nature that shines through everything she does. “Izzy taught me we’re all born into bondage. It matters not a whit what color a man’s skin is or the color of his horse or house—we’re all in shackles and only Master Jesus holds the key.”(Melinda Jane)

Oh boy, did I enjoy working with Fin and Melinda Jane—and watching sparks fly! I hope they’ll make you smile as well.

Blessings from the Heart of History, my friends!

Kendy

My Impressions

“He was wrong,” Fin rasped…“My pap.” He lifted his eyes. “He said this isn’t our war to fight. It is. My family. My home. My war.”

I’ve always loved historical fiction. I have found Civil War times are somehow so interesting to read about. Yet, Kendy Pearson forces you to do more than read *about* the Civil War in her well-researched and beautifully expressed book, When Heaven Thunders ( book 2 of West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm). No, Pearson forces you to *live* the horrifying times of the war. So many scenarios are tied together to make one tight narrative. We see that young Fin Dabney has joined up with the Federals. He leaves behind several siblings and his secret love, Melinda Jane. She has lived with the family since she was young- yet Fin wishes Melinda Jane viewed him as more than a brother. We watch the difficulties the Dabney family faces in an area that holds both Reb and Union sympathies, but where letting one’s true colors show can mean shunning, jail, or death.

We see Fin and his army friend, Noah, as they participate in scouting out land and bushwhackers. We see examples of family pitted against family, friend against friend. Pearson makes this divide both very real and very painful.

We get a healthy dose of history lessons on the birth of the state of West Virginia. Plus the Civil War battles that hotly contested who would control this area of the country. Pearson doesn’t shy away from some of the atrocities that were committed by greedy, cruel humans towards their brothers and sisters in the name of war. Will Fin see the war as an excuse to vengefully purge the earth of those who so spitefully misuse power, or will he follow his superior’s opinion of him: “You have a keen sense of justice, but you don’t count yourself the judge.”

Will Fin and Melinda Jane ever both be able to admit their love for each other before it’s too late- one way or another?

I loved how Melinda gives so unselfishly of herself to everyone around her. She gives until it hurt, then gives some more. Only her understanding of who she and others truly are, could cause her to care so much for others. many less fortunate than herself. “Did they not share the same Father? Doesn’t that same Father hurt for us and love us the same?” I had to ask myself, in this situation, would I have gotten this involved, knowing it could be so dangerous to my own person?

A fave secondary character is probs Col. Joe. He is so spot-on with his faith and refusal to become mercenary as a soldier or vengeful. He encourages the troops to belief. He fights to win- yet he is fighting a best friend and close relatives.

Do read the prologue and author’s notes for the best understanding of this insightful novel. Definitely read these three novels in order!

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:

“He gave me a second chance. A chance to live the life He wants me to live—one tethered to His grace instead of my own bitterness.” -Doc James

“The cannon blasts had increased, pecking a hole in her peace like a woodpecker on a tree trunk. “

“Izzy taught me we’re all born into bondage. It matters not a whit what color a man’s skin is or the color of his horse or house—we’re all in shackles and only Master Jesus holds the key.”– Melinda Jane

“We are in a war, yes, but it needn’t strip a man of his humanity or God’s favor.”- Col. Joe

“God is bigger than all our problems rolled into one big riled mess. He’ll make a way…”

“There’s wicked men on both sides, brother. We got ’em, you got ’em.”

“Seems this entire war has brought with it a waterfall of misery.”– Fin

“But regret was a lone hawk, forever circling above.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! This is a Civil War saga not to be missed!!

Blog Stops

Book Looks by Lisa, May 14

Stories By Gina, May 15 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 16

Simple Harvest Reads, May 17 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, May 18 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, May 18

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 19

Devoted Steps, May 20

Guild Master, May 21 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 23

Fiction Book Lover, May 24 (Author Interview)

Inklings and Notions, May 24

For Him and My Family, May 25

Blossoms and Blessings, May 26 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, May 27

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kendy is giving away the grand prize of a $40 Amazon gift card and a 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.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54234

BLOG, Just Read Tours, Kindle, New Author, Purchase

Perfect by Kimberly Keagan Review and Giveaway

May 7, 2025May 7, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Perfect by Kimberly Keagan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Perfect
Series: Hearts on Display #1
Author: Kimberly Keagan
Publisher: Ventana Publishing, LLC
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance

In the glittering era of the Gilded Age, the heirs of Philadelphia’s Denwall Department Stores navigate family expectations, relentless ambition, and unexpected love.

William Walraven’s picture perfect life is turned upside down when his fiancée jilts him for an English aristocrat and his father refuses to name him as his successor. To prove he’s worthy of leading Denwall Department Stores, Will must open their first New York store under budget and before the Christmas shopping season.

Overwhelmed by disappointment and a nearly impossible deadline, Will has no time for distractions—especially not the captivating bookseller he saves from being crushed by a beer wagon.

Ivy King and her aging grandmother are barely keeping their struggling bookshop afloat. Though drawn to the charming, enigmatic man who saved her life, Ivy has no illusions about her place in the world. It certainly isn’t beside a department store heir whose dazzling emporium threatens to close her family’s business.

Brought together in the wake of an attack on Will’s brother, Will and Ivy find themselves at a crossroads—torn between the expectations that define them and a future neither expected.

Perfect is a clean, wholesome historical romance featuring opposites-attract tension, class differences, a touch of mystery and humor, and an inspirational journey of faith and love.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

About the Author

Kimberly Keagan discovered her love for romance novels at thirteen, often choosing a book over chores. She believes there’s nothing like being transported to another time and place to find a happily ever after.

Kimberly is blessed to have her own handsome hero husband and two wonderful children. After earning a degree in accounting, she enjoyed a career in investor relations, writing financial reports and press releases—terrific jobs, though not very romantic.

Now, she’s pursuing her dream of writing historical romance. Her short stories have been published in Spark Flash Fiction and Short Fiction Break. Kimberly’s debut novel will release in 2025.

When not reading or writing, Kimberly enjoys baking, gardening, watching sports, and researching her family tree.

Connect with Kimberly by visiting kimberlykeagan.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.

My Impressions

“Remember, you’re a work of God’s hands. Perfect, just as you are.”– Gran

I think this may be a message every person needs not only to hear, but to assimilate deep in their heart. So many of us feel lacking in some way or another. Ivy King, Kimberly Keagan’s heroine, lacks in many ways. She has a physical disability. She is a lowly shop girl, not of the upper society that William Walraven belongs to. This is important in a time known as the Gilded Age, when old money means everything. I was so saddened to see how far some would take the importance of societal standing, at great cost to themselves or others.

Gran is such an encouraging, wise character, even if she can tend to be a matchmaker. She has to be my fave supporting character. Another character’s behavior arc really surprised me.

After a chance meeting, Will and Ivy meet again and begin to spend time together, even though they realize their attraction would be a forbidden romance. Will sees the notice in Ivy’s small bookstore that encourages small businesses to fight against large department stores. Afraid that Ivy will reject him if she realizes his purpose in being in NYC, he simply tells her that he and his brother Bert are there on business. What will happen when the full truth is revealed? Will both Ivy and Will endure a second case of shattered hearts?

Will’s father is spectacularly hard to please. One of my fave moments of the book happens when Will worries about his father’s heart when Charles finds out Will’s true desires. Bert informs Will, “You give yourself too much credit. God is in control of that situation, not you.” Will Will’s family be able to force him into their expectations?

A very satisfying debut novel from Keagan.

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

Notable Quotables:

“We must strive to align our actions with the higher moral principles that God has set before us. This requires honesty, integrity, and the courage to face the truth, even when it is uncomfortable.”

“Oh, dear girl, you’re more than your boots or those practical dresses you wear.”

“I’ll grant that you may not have lied outright, but you purposefully hid the truth. It was a lie of omission.”

“Here he was, trying to prove himself worthy of his inheritance, and instead, he’d managed to alienate the one person—the one woman—who’d made him feel like more than just his father’s son.”

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Magnificent!

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive a “Perfect” Tea Time Bundle which includes a lovely tea set, a signed copy of Perfect, and other cozy reader treats—like a candle, stickers, coaster, and bookmark!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 6, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 13, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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

Catherine’s Pursuit by Lena Nelson Dooley Review and Giveaway

May 5, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Catherine’s Pursuit

Author: Lena Nelson Dooley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: April 22, 2025

A secret family, a dangerous journey, and a reluctant protector who might save her heart.

Catherine Lenora McKenna has never lacked for anything. She has a loving father and is surrounded by people who care for her every need. Even so, she senses an odd hole. When she learns on her eighteenth birthday that she is not an only child, but one of three identical triplets, she finally understands what’s been missing. Setting out with a single clue, Catherine embarks on a desperate quest to find her missing family.

Colin Elliott is recovering from the violent storm that cost him his ship and left him with crippling injuries. The last thing he needs is to deal with the pampered daughter of his business associate, Angus McKenna. But McKenna is desperate and Colin indebted. As Colin follows and protects Catherine, he finds himself drawn to her kindness and strength, and drawn into her desire for family.

As love blossoms between Catherine and Collin, the journey takes a dangerous turn and each is forced to hold on to their newfound love and trust God to guide them.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Multi-published, award-winning author Lena Nelson Dooley has had more than 1,000,000 copies of her 50+ books sold. Her books have appeared on the CBA, Publisher’s Weekly, and ECPA bestseller lists, as well as Amazon bestseller lists. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and the local chapter, ACFW – DFW. She’s a member of Christian Authors’ Network. She likes to create characters and stories that grip her readers hearts.

More from Lena

I’ve spent a lot of time with these triplets. They almost feel like part of my extended family. I hope my readers feel that way, too.

I have walked with the Lord for most of my 82 years. He has been with me through hard times and wonderfully blessed times. We learn and grow in Him more in the valleys than on the mountaintops. That’s why I write books that show how much He loves. We can’t understand the depths of His love for us unless we need Him desperately. I write these stories to share that love and hope to my readers.

While I am writing a book, I often pray for God to give me the words that will touch readers who need to know Him more. I also want to write a story that will entertain them as well.

If you want to bless me, please leave a review somewhere about the stories you love. I do try to read reviews and learn from them.

I’m only 15 months from losing the love of my life after spending 59 years with him. If the Lord puts me on your heart, please whisper a prayer for me. Prayer changes things.

My Impressions

“All my life, I’ve felt as if something essential was missing from my heart and life. Now I know it was my sisters. I have to find them.”

The third book of the McKenna Sisters, Catherine’s Pursuit by Lena Nelson Dooley, starts with spoiled San Francisco heiress Catherine McKenna discovering that she is not an only child, but rather a triplet. Her identical sisters were adopted out shortly after birth. When Catherine’s father refuses to help in her search for her sisters, she hatches her own plan to rediscover her family.

Meanwhile, Catherine’s father sends a trusted employee, Colin Elliot, after his daughter and her maid, to keep them safe. Colin wants nothing to do with the woman he has dubbed the “Ice Princess,” but due to a sense of great debt to his employer, consents to the assignment.

I liked seeing the changes evolve in Catherine and Colin as they make their journey. Catherine slowly begins to start viewing life through the lens of caring for others and their comfort. She begins to realize how much she needs and wants to mature. Colin struggles with feeling alone as Catherine does, but he doesn’t have the family experiences she had, nor does he feel included in her new family. He also feels inferior because of an unsuccessful venture which leaves him with a physical disformity.

I loved seeing how the faith of Catherine and her father and Daniel and Mary and their family attracts him and draws him to want what they have. Indeed, as Mrs. Winthrop states, “Love opens the door to learning of one’s need of a Saviour and forgiveness.” Mrs. Winthrop with her mothering ways is my fave secondary character, as well as Daniel for the way he befriends Colin.

While this book could be read alone, I felt I had more background having read about the beginning of the family story in book 1, Maggie’s Journey. I missed reading book 2, Mary’s Redemption, and would have had a better background for this story, had I read book 2. I will def be returning for it.

Colin has to face his nightmares from the past and his fears in order to return Catherine and Julie home from visiting Seattle. Will he be able to face his fears? Daniel gives wise counsel: “Fear is an ugly companion.” And then he issues a challenge: “So what are you going to do? Run away, or go in the strength of the Lord?”

Employing tropes of enemies to lovers, found family, and forgiveness, Catherine’s Pursuit is a book I would recommend for historical romance fans.

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 7

Pause for Tales, May 7

Texas Book-aholic, May 8

Sylvan Musings, May 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 11

Devoted To Hope, May 12

Holly’s Book Corner, May 12

lakesidelivingsite, May 13

Books You Can Feel Good About, May 14

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, May 14

Simple Harvest Reads, May 15 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Book Looks by Lisa, May 16

Cover Lover Book Review, May 17

For Him and My Family, May 18

Mary Hake, May 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lena 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.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54213

ARC, BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Kindle, New-to-Me Author, Purchase

When the Mountains Wept by Kendy Pearson Review and Giveaway

April 25, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: When the Mountains Wept (West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm Book One)

Author: Kendy Pearson

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: April 5, 2024

War brought them together, but one lie holds the power to separate them forever.

Western Virginia’s Kanawha Valley is a hotbed of rebellion tensions and mixed allegiances.

Amid talk of war, Augusta Dabney tends her younger siblings and dying father. But when hatred sparks tragedy, peace is but a shattered memory. Heartbroken and desperate, Augusta searches for a way to protect all she holds dear.

Defying family and friends, Dr. James Hill declines a prestigious commission in the Confederate Army to join the Union cause as a Regimental Surgeon. When the Dabney farm becomes a crossroads of colliding forces, Major Hill commandeers their barn for a hospital.

He is running from his legacy, seeking penance for his past.

She is desperate to preserve hers, at any cost.

As a wise, former slave nurtures James’s battered faith, cynicism crumbles, and James discovers grace and belonging with Augusta and her family unlike any he’s ever known.

But when James comes face to face with his past, secrets unravel until deception ends in disaster, leaving Augusta with only one option.

And it is unthinkable.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kendy Pearsonis a worship leader, Bluegrass fiddler, and Civil War reenactment enthusiast. As a veteran high school teacher, she loves to discover a pocket of American history missing from the schoolbooks and turn that pocket inside out. Her novels lead fictitious characters through historical events and settings, engaging with period personalities. And she always includes a romantic thread to warm the heart. Every story is a journey through tragedy, secrets, regrets, and God’s undeniable grace.

She is the recipient of multiple lit awards and enjoys public speaking and teaching writing workshops. When away from the computer, she relishes ice cream, snowy days, fireplaces, and maple trees. Kendy is the mother of four grown children and lives with her sweet hubby and two amusing miniature dachshunds.

More from Kendy

I was quite happy expressing my inner farm-girl and thriving at all things musical for decades. Until I found myself teaching high school history and raising three sons. I should have saved up a dollar for every war movie I watched! All the men in my family had a great interest in history. I remember watching the boys in a production of King Henry the Fifth, complete with Old English and death by sword. One year, I taught about the Civil War in three different classes, so that era became a favorite interest of mine. I read every Christian Historical novel I could find about the War of Rebellion.

Boy, did I have fun researching! For three months, I pored over the most incredible true stories of families and events, reading even soldier diaries. I created timelines and wrote note cards. I became the student again!

There is much of myself and my life in When the Mountains Wept. The female main character (Augusta Dabney) is part me and part who I long to be. She’s responsible, tough, brave, smart, farmish, doctorly—and she has red hair, freckles, and an Irish complexion that splotches and sunburns. My daughter influenced the 12-year-old sister in the story (she figured that out on her own). Will (Willamina) is a tomboy who will risk trouble for the sake of adventure. She is strong-willed and often has an attitude. (I’m pretty sure that last part was why my daughter figured it out.)

I enjoy a story that makes me laugh, so having three sons, I am pretty familiar with boyish antics. The 6-year-old brother added humor, and a saucy 12-year-old girl provided plenty of fodder, too. The romance between two very different but strong personalities provided an opportunity for a few laughs as well.

If a book makes me cry, it’s a keeper. My story contains painful truths, each rooted in my research. The characters experience the harsh reality of their circumstances. I cried while writing more than a couple of the scenes. It is just plain hard to wrap my head around living smack dab in the middle of war, where your neighbor is your enemy and your home is no longer your own.

I fell in love with the family I created in When the Mountains Wept, hence, I must not consign them to the past. They will live on in this series as each member of the Dabney family shares their own story of adventure, romance, sacrifice, and faith.

Blessings from the Heart of History, my friends!

Kendy

My Impressions

“Bondage comes in many forms, Doctor. Anger, bitterness, unforgiveness—they’s all shackles—and Massa Jesus, He has the keys. It’s Him who sets a man truly free.”

What is freedom? Kendy Pearson’s Civil War novel, When the Mountains Wept, shows a Virginia family, a wealthy doctor, and the country, all striving for freedom. The South battles the North; the Dabneys try to stir clear of the conflict, declaring, “This isn’t our war,” until finally, they are thrust in the middle of it. Augusta is trying to keep her family’s farm free from the bank, and Dr. James Hill is trying to escape the memories of his past.

I loved the relationships we see in this novel. Gus cares so much for her family and for her dying father. The love between family members is vibrant and alive. I love the faith and calmness that old Izzy brings to the family, as well. He is my choice for a fave secondary character with his intentional words, patience, and compassion for all.

Pearson exhibits a great deal of Civil War knowledge and teaches it through the Union army movements as relates to Dr. Hill’s commission. She also shows the sad division of our nation, even as friends and families splintered. This book is not for the squeamish!

I am glad to see there will be more books, as some family members need more of their story told.

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:

“We don’t choose our family, James. God does.”

“Wasn’t her own happiness a small price to pay for her family’s future?”

“We need Yo help, Lord—to forgive. We know if’n we don’t forgive them that sins against us, there’s no forgiveness for us. Help us to forgive, lest that unforgiveness grab hold of our lives and pull us down so low we can’t never get up.”

“He, too, believed Virginia was sovereign. But along with that, independence rode an ugly black horse called slavery.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 28

Simple Harvest Reads, April 29 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Texas Book-aholic, April 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 1

Stories By Gina, May 2 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 2

Devoted Steps, May 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 4

Betti Mace, May 5

Holly’s Book Corner, May 6

Pause for Tales, May 7

Guild Master, May 8 (Author Interview)

Bizwings Book Blog, May 9

Cover Lover Book Review, May 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kendy is giving away the grand prize of a $40 Amazon gift card and a 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.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54206

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

Relinquishing the Agent by Lorri Dudley Review and Giveaway

April 22, 2025April 22, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Relinquishing the Agent

Author: Lorri Dudley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: April 8, 2025

Can love bloom between a woman living a lie and a man sworn to uncover the truth?

Bluestocking Rebecca Leah Prestcote would prefer to hide in a library, searching for a cure to her sister’s ailment, over participating in London’s Season. But when her wealthy cousin demands Rebecca attend a house party as her, Rebecca cannot refuse. Her cousin intends to win the affection of the Marquis of Wolston and Rebecca is, after all, a charity case. When the Marquis unexpectedly arrives at the wrong party, Rebecca must uphold the ruse, or be caught in her cousin’s lie.

Daniel Elmsley, Marquis of Wolston, cannot let another target escape, not if he plans to catch the band of body snatchers and prove his worth as a spy. But when people at Lady Coburn’s house party go missing, his mission escalates to stopping a murderer. When he intercepts a letter meant to blackmail Lady Prestcote, he begins to wonder if the beguiling beauty may be involved in the conspiracy.

Singled out for Lord Wolston’s affections, Rebecca must maintain her web of deception and evade the investigation of the captivating marquis even while he ensnares her heart.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lorri Dudleyhas been a finalist in numerous writing contests and has a master’s degree in Psychology. She lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household.

More from Lorri

Listed among the Regency underworld of housebreakers, Thames pirates, sneaks (pickpockets), Covent Garden nuns (prostitutes), vagrants, and ruffians are another class of evil-doers called resurrection men, also known as sack-‘em-up men or body snatchers. The dark industry of grave robbing blossomed in the early 1800s and was thrust into the public’s eye by the notorious Burke and Hare murders in 1831. While my story takes place earlier, in 1817, the laws and practices were already in place before Burke and his accomplice were arrested.

In the early 1800s, the academic field of anatomy and physiology started to break new ground with the invention of the stethoscope and the first open heart surgeries (not all successful). Many of these breakthroughs developed as a result of the dissection of human cadavers. Fresh bodies became a hot commodity, but by law, the only bodies legally designated for dissection were those of hung criminals. Demand outweighed the supply, and an underground market for grave robbing grew as academics handsomely paid resurrection men to dig up specimens. The fresher the body, the higher the earnings, which ultimately led to the ugly intent of murder.

Why would a Christian author want to write about a horrific topic like body snatching?

While my story doesn’t go into any gory details (I get woozy at the sight of blood), Rebecca and Daniel’s story allowed me to dive into the concept that we all have intrinsic worth. The victims of Burke and Hare were people society had forgotten—people who were expected to go unnoticed if they disappeared. But those victims were image bearers of God. Jesus proved their value by dying for them on the cross. They are not forgotten because God knit them together in their mother’s womb, knows every hair on their heads, and has carved their names into the palms of His hands.

Rebecca and Daniel’s love story, with mystery, espionage, and romance mixed in, demonstrates how God’s power is made perfect in weakness. While Lady Coburn’s excentric party guests and the victims of the villainous resurrection men exemplify that worth isn’t based on works, popularity, or lineage but on the sacrifice Jesus made for them.

Enjoy!

Click to watch Relinquishing the Agent’s book trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4BwfvZiNLM

My Impressions

“Indeed, we’ve been dealt challenges that we wouldn’t have chosen, but God uses them. He has a plan for you—for us—in the middle of these storms. We must keep our eyes open for what God is doing.”

This!! This is perhaps my fave quote from Relinquishing the Agent, because it applies so well to Rebecca’s questions of how God could let bad things happen to people who love Him. It applies to Daniel’s (the esteemed and sought after Marquis of Wolston) frustrations as he seeks to prove himself to the “Home Office” and his grandfather who sees him as weak. It applies to us today, as we move through life, and life is not what we expected. How I love an exciting, romantic, historical suspense which has several such truth nuggets embedded for the finding! Relinquishing the Agent by Lorri Dudley far exceeded my expectations!!

Themes: Every person is equal before God. All human life is sacred and valuable. God can redeem even the most depraved, if they turn to him in repentance. Don’t try to be a Lone Ranger. It often takes teamwork to be successful. God’s power is made perfect in weakness.

Travel back with Dudley to the time of England in the early 1800s. Poor relation Rebecca Prestcote is to stay with her wealthy socialite cousin, Lady Corinne Prestcote, and debut in the upcoming London season with her. Finding herself booked for an “undesirable” party vs. one where the much-sought after single Marquis is rumored to attend, the look-alike cousins trade places.Rebecca attends Lady Coburn’s party as Corinne, and quickly discovers a guest list of misfits. No wonder Corinne didn’t want to attend! Rebecca is thrilled to discover a doctor whose specialty is the workings of the heart, given her mother died from heart issues and her sister is developing the same issues. Rebecca tries hard to capture the doctor’s attention, and to be able to hold intelligent discussions with him, but he holds to the standard ideas of the time that the female mind is too weak to understand such things. Little does Rebecca realize until too late that her “bluestocking” ways of thirsting for knowledge, and asking questions endanger her own heart as well as her life!

Historical morés, the historical problem of body snatchers, and sometimes outright murder to provide cadavers for scientific advancement are all addressed in the this true-to-the-times historical romance. The themes are easy to pick out. Every person is equal before God. All human life is sacred and valuable. God can redeem even the most depraved, if they turn to him in repentance. Don’t try to be a Lone Ranger. It often takes teamwork to be successful. God’s power is made perfect in weakness.

I loved the growth of the characters, the suspense and mystery, the idea of found family in unexpected places, and the “But God…” transformations of a few lives! Don’t miss this wonderful, fact-and-Faith based historical romance!!

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:

“Knowledge is learned, but wisdom is granted by God and must be lived.”- Rebecca’s mama

“We are on this earth to love. Love is the point.”

“Save the world?”…“But if you could save one person? Would it be worth it?” “Yes.”…“Then focus on saving one.”

“God’s mercy went against his sense of justice,”

“A human life shouldn’t be spoken of as a commodity.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superb!! So many themes applicable for today’s life while we learn history and are entertained!!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 22

Pens Pages & Pulses, April 22

Melissa’s Bookshelf, April 23

Betti Mace, April 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 24

She Lives To Read, April 25

lakesidelivingsite, April 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 26

Texas Book-aholic, April 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 28

For Him and My Family, April 28

Devoted To Hope, April 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 30

Book Looks by Lisa, May 1

Holly’s Book Corner, May 2

Cover Lover Book Review, May 3

Bizwings Book Blog, May 4

Pause for Tales, May 4

Stories By Gina, May 5 (Author Interview)

Roads to Everywhere, May 5

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lorri 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.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54202

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

When the Sky Burned by Liz Tolsma Review and Giveaway

March 26, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: When the Sky Burned (A Day to Remember Book 6)

Author: Liz Tolsma

Genre: Christian Fiction / Romance / Historical Fiction

Release date: March 1, 2025

A Tornado of Fire and Embezzlement Sweep through a Community

Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.

Promising painter Mariah Randolph longs to have her canvases displayed in the world’s best museums, and Hollis Stanford, the heir of a railroad tycoon, is her ticket to success. The railroad’s bookkeeper, Jay Franklin, discovers discrepancies and is convinced that Hollis is stealing from the company. But any proof of his dirty dealings go up in smoke when fire utterly destroys the town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, October 8, 1871.

The fire leaves Mariah blind, but Jay befriends her and even helps her to start painting again. But a trip to Chicago to return Hollis’s daughter to him could put both Mariah and Jay in more danger than even the fire that devastated the town and their lives.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a US Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.

More from Liz

My Impressions

“Disaster, though, rarely announces its arrival. Rather, it bursts through the door and refuses to leave until it has finished ravaging everything and everyone inside.”

This whole series by Barbour, A Day to Remember, is one of calling to remembrance great American disasters that many have never heard of. Liz Tolsma’s novel, When the Sky Burned, book six, is certainly an enlightening, faith-based, romantic and compelling story about the Peshtigo, WI fire of 1871.

When we first meet Mariah Randolph, she is a talented, aspiring painter in the small town of Peshtigo, painting the skies colored by the fires surrounding the village. No one is especially worried about the fires at this time, going about business as usual in the small railroad town.

Unfortunately, the bookkeeper for the railroad, Jay Franklin, is worried. But he is worried about discrepancies he is finding in the railroad’s books, and his boss, Hollis Stanford, accuses Jay of making mistakes and belittles him. Hollis is the son of the railroad owner and is engaged to a friend of Jay’s, Mariah. Unfortunately, the ugly side Hollis shows Jay is not what Mariah sees. She sees Hollis’s very wonderful six-year-old daughter who needs a mother and lofty promises of grandeur and art gallery showings.

Just as Jay begins to gather physical evidence against Hollis, the fire engulfs the town. The tragedy is unthinkable. I won’t describe it here, but it can be a little difficult to read. (Interestingly enough, this Peshtigo fire killed thousands in a town of only 7,000. This compared to the Great Chicago fire, which occurred the same night, but whose victims, though as precious, numbered only in the hundreds.)

The fire changes everything. Hollis’s true nature begins to emerge as he attempts to cover up his gambling debts and deceit and selfishness. Hollis’s daughter is sweet, but is beginning to have a change in personality as she undergoes all the trauma surrounding the fire. Mariah has suffered horribly, losing people near and dear to her, and losing the one ability she values as essential to her painting. Her faith teeters. “Why would God allow such misery to befall us all? Where was He on that terrible night? What did we do to deserve His judgment?”

Some characters in this book are so much less than they present themselves. Some surprised me in this regard. Some seem to rise from mediocre or average to far above by their choices. As Stanford, Sr., tells Jay, “It’s a daily choice that I make to walk with the Lord. Prayer and studying His Word help a great deal.”

I loved the character of Angelina. I felt so badly for her. Hollis barely knows her. “No matter what kind of person he is, every little girl deserves affection from the first man in her life.” I would amend this to say, every little girl *desires* the attention and affection of the first man in her life, whether he is a good man or not.

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:

“I suppose if you shy away from doing what is right out of fear of the consequences, then you have lost your integrity and have compromised it for an easier path. By definition, integrity acts despite what might happen.”

“The path of righteousness is a narrow one, fraught with stumbling blocks and obstacles. God never promised it would be simple or would come without pain.”

“They were his friends, these numbers. His constant, always either right or wrong. There were no gray areas, no shades of black and white. No in between.”

“But she hadn’t brought her cares and sorrows to the one who understood. She hadn’t sought refuge or solace within her heavenly Father’s arms.”

“Don’t be sad, even though it’s hard not to be. Nanny says that Jesus is always with us. Like even when Papa has to go away. When Mama died. Sometimes I get afraid, but then I remember Jesus is next to me. I like that.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! The very real terror of this tragedy will stick with you. But hopefully, so will the hope found in Jesus.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 27

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 27

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 28

Pens Pages & Pulses, March 28

Books You Can Feel Good About, March 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 29

Simple Harvest Reads, March 30 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Texas Book-aholic, March 30

Betti Mace, March 31

Lily’s Corner, March 31

Life on Chickadee Lane, April 1

Devoted Steps, April 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 3

Blogging with Carol, April 4

Connie’s History Classroom, April 4

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 5

For Him and My Family, April 5

Stories By Gina, April 6 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 6

Bizwings Book Blog, April 7

Cover Lover Book Review, April 7

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, April 8

Jodie Wolfe, April 8

Holly’s Book Corner, April 9

Pause for Tales, April 9

Giveaway

BLOG, Just Read Tours, Kindle, New-to-Me Author, Purchase

These Long Shadows by Jennifer Mistmorgan Review and Giveaway

March 25, 2025March 24, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for These Long Shadows by Jennifer Mistmorgan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: These Long Shadows
Series: On Victory’s Wings #3
Author: Jennifer Mistmorgan
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: March 21, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance WWII

How do they rebuild a marriage that wasn’t real in the first place?

London, 1945: Two years ago, Jonty Ables married Katie Baines to save her and her unborn baby from shame. But now the war is all but over, the baby is gone and they must work out where their shaky marriage fits into lives irrevocably changed by war.

Clinging to the memory of a time before all happiness evaporated, Katie works hard during the day as a seamstress. At night she comes home to a tiny terrace on a bomb-scarred street, crammed with her extended family and their problems. Years of estrangement sit between her and her recently demobilized husband. She’s not even sure she loves him, so why is she so crushed that he calls out another woman’s name in his sleep?

Jonty is determined to honor the vows he made no matter how many ghosts now plague him, but with such separate lives his wife is more of a stranger than ever. When Katie’s friend goes missing, Jonty seizes the opportunity to help her find him just so they have a reason to talk. But the war casts long shadows over their efforts, and fighting for their future might just be the hardest battle of them all.

If you love epic wartime romance with a dash of intrigue, you’ll love this second-chance, marriage-of-convenience love story.

More in This Series

About the Author

Australian author Jennifer Mistmorgan sometimes feels like she was born in the wrong era. So she writes romantic historical fiction set in the 1940s, against the backdrop of WWII and its aftermath. She infuses her sweet romances with wartime drama, gentle faith and a dash of intrigue. She lives in Canberra with her family and a wonky-eared West Highland terrier.

Connect with Jennifer by visiting jennifermistmorgan.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.

My Impressions

“He’d arrived home to a sham marriage and to a family that wasn’t his own.”

Wow! When I was looking at the author of These Long Shadows, Jennifer Mistmorgan, I wasn’t sure if I’d ever read a novel by her before or not. After breathlessly finishing this WWII marriage of convenience novel, I will never forget Mistmorgan’s writing!

I would definitely recommend this book for a mature audience, due to the subject matter. During WWII, as part of the Women’ Auxiliary Air Force, Katie forms enduring friendships with Grace and Maggie that will support her during the hardest times of her life. She also is a victim of a cruel bet that will forever change her life in so many ways. Finding herself pregnant without spousal support, a good male friend, Jonty, proposes marriage to rescue her from scandal. When the baby doesn’t survive, Katie rejects Jonty. Is it even possible for them to pick up now, 2 years later, and rekindle their dying marriage?

Fear, jealousy, divided loyalties, shame, PTSD, and secrets all are a part of the world that Jonty and Katie must personally navigate if they want to save their marriage. I liked seeing how God uses even bad events, or unfair events, in their lives to propel them into different paths than they might otherwise take. I liked seeing how God is willing to use imperfect people, such as Katie’s mother, to give good advice. When Katie’s mom urges her and Jonty to find their own place, Katie is loathe to leave the security her family of origin provides. “But this is my home.” “No, Katie. He is your home.”

I love that Katie and Jonty have some good mutual friends who aren’t afraid to pull them aside individually and encourage them very strongly to keep working on their marriage. As Jonty admits, “I tried once. It didn’t work”… Maggie had something to say!

“Did you just say ‘once’?”

“…Once won’t cut it! If the nurses in the hospital changed your bandages once, would you have healed? They did it every day for months, and look at you now. Your skin has grown over and around. And yes, you have scars, and sometimes they hurt, but you can move on. Just because the wound is in her heart doesn’t mean she doesn’t need the same loving care.”

A few very surprising twists give the story extra interest. I sure did not see them coming!

I especially found this novel of interest as our own extended family has sent an unborn child to live with Jesus, and the novel highlights just how hard losing a child can be, how life-shattering, for the mother especially.

I received a copy of this book from JustRead Tours. I also bought my own copy. No positive review is required, and all opinions are my own.

Be sure to read the prologue. Also, historical notes are online.

Notable Quotables:

“Just like she couldn’t bear the thought of another child, he couldn’t bear the thought of admitting his failure.”

“When God makes a promise, he keeps it, Katie.”

“You shouldn’t have to pretend. You are perfect the way you are.”

“Happily ever afters are actually a lot of hard work, aren’t they?”

“That man is pure gold. He is good at his heart, you hear me. Good. And being married to a good man can see you through a lot in this life.”

“You don’t need to stay stuck in the sadness of death when you know there’s life beyond it.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card (USD)!

(5) additional winners will each receive an ebook bundle of all 3 books in the “On Victory’s Wings” series!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 25, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 1, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Open internationally. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!