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A Whole New Plan by Denise M. Colby Review

July 5, 2026 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: A Whole New Plan

Series: Best-Laid Plans

Author: Denise M. Colby

Publisher: Scrivenings Press

Released: May 26, 2026

Genre: Historical Frontier Romance (Christian)

ometimes God’s best plan is the one we never expected.

California, 1870. Pastor William Baker has built his life on faith, routine, and safe choices—until Lydia Spencer walks in and turns everything upside down.

Independent, outspoken, and guarded, Lydia is unlike any woman he’s ever known. She has no interest in church… and no intention of revealing the truth she’s hiding.

Because Lydia isn’t just a schoolteacher.

She’s a Pinkerton detective, sent west to track a dangerous crime boss—and she’ll do whatever it takes to protect those she loves, even if it means keeping her distance from the one man who sees straight through her defenses.

But when unexplained thefts shake their quiet small-town rural community, and a desperate boy appears with ties to a deeper mystery, Will and Lydia are forced into an uneasy partnership.

As danger closes in, so do their hearts.

What begins as a reluctant alliance soon becomes a forced proximity neither of them expected—and neither can ignore.

Yet the very things that draw them together may be the ones that tear them apart.

Lydia’s life is built on secrets.
Will’s is built on truth.

And when her past catches up with her, they’ll have to decide what matters most—holding on to their own plans… or trusting the One who sees the bigger picture.

Because sometimes surrender is the only way to find the life you were meant to live.

Set against the backdrop of the American West, A Whole New Plan is a heartfelt story of faith, courage, and a strong woman learning to trust again—woven with threads of mystery and hope.>

If you enjoy western Christian romances with elements of intrigue and heart, you’ll love A Whole New Plan—perfect for fans of Misty M. Beller and Mary Connealy.

Step into a story of courage, trust, and unexpected love—grab your copy today.

Purchase Links: Amazon | B&N | BookBub

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About the Author

Denise M. Colby writes historical romance sweetened with faith, hope, and love. She finds history fascinating and contemplates often how it was to live in the 1800’s.

Her debut novel, When Plans Go Awry, is a 2025 Carol Award finalist and placed 3rd in the Historical Romance category of the OCRW BBB contest.

She treasures the written word and the messages that can be conveyed when certain words are strung together. An avid journal writer, she usually can be found with a pen and notepad whenever she’s reading God’s word.

Every year Denise chooses a word to focus on. For 2025, her word is FLOURISH! Sign up for her newsletter at her website denisemcolby dot com or you can follow Denise on facebook or instagram.

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My Impressions

“If he knew she lied for a living, he would call her a hypocrite. And he would be correct.”

I have to admit, ever since I vicariously visited Denise M. Colby’s small town of Washton, CA, in the latter half of the 1800s, I’ve been wanting to go back. So, I jumped at the chance to read Colby’s third book of the Best-Laid Plans series, A Whole New Plan. We have many of the characters from before, plus a few new ones. And, the one I was especially hoping to see making an appearance, the town mascot, Bert! What a hoot Bert is!

Lydia is a Pinkerton who comes to Washton to protect her friend, Jenny, from danger from a previous encounter with a mob. Most people in town are not privy to Lydia’s real identity, including young pastor Will, who is beginning to feel the need for a wife. ( And if he doesn’t pick his own, the townspeople will be happy to assist!) He becomes interested in convalescing Lydia, though it soon becomes apparent she is hiding something.

I liked Will as a male main character. He is such a good listener, and always seems to know how to counsel people and guide them. He actually does a great job of helping Lydia think through various situations, and he knows how to insert Truth without becoming preachy. He is not afraid to risk himself for others. I loved the way he meets the need of young Ollie, who is the most lovable, sad waif. While he wishes to meet Lydia’s needs as more than a friend, he realizes there are huge obstacles in the way. She neither shares her mysterious past nor is she interested in his God or his faith.

Lydia, herself, starts to develop an interest in Will, but she realizes how much he detests lies. Her life is based on lying. Also, her philosophy of life is much different from his. “When plans don’t go the way I want them to, I reassess. Will prays. It will be interesting to see which method works better.” (- from Lydia’s journal, which we are given peeks into at the beginning of each chapter.) Lydia had a very rough childhood and can’t believe that anyone who truly sees her could love her. Can Will convince her that both he snd the Heavenly Father see her, and love her as she is? Can he keep her safe as she dives back into her past, so he can get the chance to tell her?

This is a great book for historical fiction fans who like Misty M. Beller or Mary Connealy. Also, slow-burn, inspirational romance, small-town settings, and unique characters.

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:

“The one thing they had was God. And it was time to trust Him completely.”

“God sees you as His precious creation. You don’t have to prove anything to Him because you are good enough in His eyes. “- Will

“You do know God is orchestrating all of this, right? He brought us together initially and continues to intertwine our lives. Helping us find our purpose. Where we belong.” – Olivia

“Having faith in someone is almost as important as having faith in God. We all need someone to believe in us.” – Will

“If we talk with God first, then listen, the enemy’s lies don’t reach us as much. And when they do, we can see them for the lies they are more clearly.”– Will

“Where some people fall away from God during tragedy, I turned to Him. And He carried me through. I found strength and solace, grace and patience. And I wanted to share that with others.” – Will

“The enemy likes to taunt us with our fears. Tell us we are not enough. Make us doubt our decisions.” – Will

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! This book earned its stars for its unique characters, including Ollie & Bert. Also for the great amount of Truth Nuggets to be mined, plus unexpected suspense.

BLOG, Celebrate Lit Tour, Favorite, Misty M Beller Books, Purchase

Mail-Order Viscountess by Misty M. Beller Review and Giveaway

June 28, 2026June 28, 2026 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Mail-Order Viscountess

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian historical romance

Release Date: June 9, 2026

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

When a Montana blizzard strands two strangers in a cave, honor demands a vow neither of them want.

Nobody knows the truth about newly knighted Lord Thomas Balfour. He doesn’t deserve the honor being showered on him, so after this last trip with his brother and sister-in-law to Butte for supplies, he’ll leave this territory behind completely. But once he reaches town, he’s blindsided to discover his brothers have ordered him a bride by post. A woman complicates everything. And even worse—the bride has brought her sister.

Kate McKinney masterminded this journey west to rescue her younger sister from their controlling mother’s plans. Yet one look at the intended groom’s scowl, and Kate’s doubts bloom. Maybe this mail-order marriage scheme will be far worse for her beloved sister than the wealthy brute their ambitious mother arranged.

Thomas has no choice but to help escort the sisters back to the Balfour ranch. On the trail, a blizzard changes everything, tearing Thomas and Kate away from the others—straight into danger…

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a royal family saga featuring a mail-order bride, snowed-in peril, 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 an ECPA and USA Today bestselling 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

His Brothers Did What?! Meet the Hero of Mail-Order Viscountess

Every family has that one person who needs a little…nudging in the right direction.

For the Balfour brothers, that person is Thomas.

Lord Thomas Balfour is many things—newly knighted, fiercely capable, and absolutely convinced he doesn’t deserve any of it. He carries a secret that weighs on him heavier than the Montana snow, and he’s made up his mind: after one last supply run to Butte with his brother and sister-in-law, he’s leaving the territory for good. No fuss, no goodbyes. Just gone.

His brothers, of course, had other plans.

Because while Thomas was busy planning his quiet disappearance, his brothers were busy placing an ad—for a mail-order bride. For him. Without telling him a single word about it.

So imagine Thomas’s face when he arrives in Butte and discovers a woman waiting there to become his wife.

Actually, not one woman. Two.

Because the bride—Kate McKinney—has brought her sister along.

To say Thomas is less than thrilled would be an understatement. The scowl he greets them with says everything. A woman complicates his carefully laid plans. Two women? That’s a catastrophe.

But here’s what Thomas doesn’t know yet: Kate didn’t come west to trap a reluctant lord into marriage. She came to rescue her sister. And one look at Thomas’s stormy expression has her wondering if she’s made a terrible mistake—whether the Balfour brothers’ well-meaning scheme has landed her beloved sister somewhere far worse than the life they left behind.

Two people who don’t want to be there. One scheme cooked up by meddling brothers who love Thomas too much to let him walk away. And a Montana blizzard that’s about to strand them all together with no way out.

I pray you love Mail-Order Viscountess! J

Blessings!

Misty

My Impressions

“We’ve arranged something. Something we think will be good for you.”– James

Yikes! It’s the winter of 1860 in Montana Territory when Misty M. Beller’s character, Thomas, hears his brother utter those fateful words. Sure enough, in Mail-Order Viscountess, the three older brothers are still assuming they know what is best for their now-grown brother and trying to direct his paths. Thomas, who has always felt his opinions are ignored and has been trying to prove himself to his siblings, finds himself with James and Rose, greeting two young women at the train station. He has just been informed by his brother, James, that one of the young women is his mail-order bride. A bride he never sent for, but is now responsible for, half-a-continent away from their civilized home. The bride-to-be, Clara, is very quiet, but her sister, Kate, is very outspoken and protective of her sister, sizing Thomas up every chance she gets. Is Thomas Balfour really a safe, trustworthy man to hand her sister over to? “His brothers had ordered him one mail-order bride and gotten two women instead—one who’d come expecting marriage, and one who looked at him like he was something she’d scrape off her boot.”

Kate and Clara McKinney gladly seize the opportunity of the request for a mail-order bride. They can leave behind Clara’s domineering mother who would marry Clara off to a much older man. Clara can marry a rancher and Kate can start her own business in the West. Kate even finds the foothold into society she needs to start the business.

Then… once Kate and Clara understand the false pretenses that brought them, they still need a place to rest before deciding their next steps. As Thomas and Kate are separated from the rest of the party and put in a compromising situation, it seems the only solution is for a marriage of convenience between these two instead.

I loved Kate’s protectiveness and love for her sister, of whom she could have easily been resentful. She sees her sister’s need for structure and does the heavy lifting of planning for the future of the two. Kate studies Thomas and begins to develop an understanding of the young man who feels unseen, unheard, and unappreciated by his Balfour brothers.

I love how Thomas slowly falls for Kate as she shows him respect and sees him as an individual worth listening to. I did begin to wonder, though, if Thomas spends too much time being bitter when others had his best at heart….oh, yeah, that’s how he got in this crazy mess. Best strike out on his own, be his own person. Go to California. Kate quietly questions whether he is running away, then explains that there is a difference between running or choosing. “Choosing a path means you know where you’re going. Running just means you’re desperate to be anywhere but where you are.”

This novel held a romance that I loved, a great marriage-of-convenience story, found family, trust, and a good deal of heart-pounding suspense. I believe this is one of Beller’s best. I certainly enjoyed every element!

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

Notable Quotables:

“But sometimes the very thing we think will trap us is actually the thing that sets us free.”– Rose

“ ‘I don’t know if I can give her what she needs.’ James stayed quiet a long moment. When he spoke, his tone had softened. ‘None of us know that when we start. We just choose to try.’ ” -Thomas, James

“Truth doesn’t count for much when scandal makes a better story.” Thomas

“You’re not running from cowardice.” Kate’s words came softer now, almost gentle. “You’re running from the weight of everyone’s expectations. From having to be the hero they think you are.”

“Every instinct screamed at her to run—to protect herself from the vulnerability of binding her life to another person who could hurt her, leave her, fail her the way her father had.” ( Kate)

“…reputation is the only currency that matters out here. Once lost, it cannot be recovered.” -Mr. Hartwell

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! I really enjoyed the combination of elements in this story and feel like Mail-Order Viscountess is one of Beller’s best!

Blog Stops

Book Looks by Lisa, June 24

Sydney Schmied Books, June 24

Devoted Steps, June 25

Melissa’s Bookshelf, June 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 26

Lyssa Loves Books, June 26

lakesidelivingsite, June 27

Artistic Nobody, June 27 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Texas Book-aholic, June 28

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 28

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 29

For Him and My Family, June 29

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, June 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 30

Book Holds and Jello Molds, July 1

Sylvan Musings, July 1

Tell Tale Book Reviews, July 2

She Lives To Read, July 2

Life on Chickadee Lane, July 3

Books You Can Feel Good About, July 3

Connie’s History Classroom, July 4

Simple Harvest Reads, July 4 (Guest Review from Donna)

Cover Lover Book Review, July 5

Mary Hake, July 5

Holly’s Book Corner, July 6

Locks, Hooks and Books, July 6

Devoted To Hope, July 7

Pause for Tales, July 7

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://gleam.io/NbqMu/mail-order-viscountess-celebration-tour-giveaway

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

The Schoolmarm and the Miner by Denise Weimer Review and Giveaway

May 15, 2026May 14, 2026 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Schoolmarm and the Miner

Author: Denise Farnsworth writing as Denise Weimer

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: May 5, 2026

A teacher seeking independence. A widower guarding his heart. In Georgia’s gold country, the richest prize may be the love they’re afraid to claim.

Adelaide Duncan’s dream of teaching is within reach until her father’s drinking and gambling force her to start over. Taking a position in the rough-and-tumble gold rush town of Dahlonega[DF1] , she’s determined to prove herself. But unruly students, strict rules against [DF2] teachers courting, and her growing feelings for a certain widowed father threaten the independence she’s fought so hard to claim.

Wade Coulter walked away from the law after he lost his wife and unborn son. Raising his daughter alone is safer than letting anyone else in. But Lotty’s beautiful new teacher makes him question everything. Just as he begins to trust again, a dangerous man from Wade’s past threatens both the women he loves.

A gold strike on Wade’s property promises security…but also revives old dangers. Scarred by her father’s choices, Addie fears any man who might put [DF3] selfish desires before love. As deadly threats close in and the past refuses to stay buried, Wade must prove he’s changed or risk losing his chance at happiness forever.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

North Georgia native Denise Farnsworth, formerly Denise Weimer, has authored over twenty traditionally published novels and novellas—historical and contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and time slip. As a freelance editor and Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books, she’s helped other authors reach their publishing dreams. A wife and mother of two adult daughters, Denise always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.

More from Denise

At the end of book one of my Twenty-Niners of the Georgia Gold Rush series, The Songbird and the Surveyor, the bad guy walked free! Saloon and mine owner Charles Martin’s manipulative plotting and family money spared him from facing justice. Well, we can’t have that…

Wade Coulter, the sheriff whose sister died in a confrontation with Charles, turned in his badge after the man avoided standing trial for kidnapping the wife of Jesse Holden (the hero of book one) and his theft of a local mine owner’s gold. Jesse and Genny left North Georgia for a fresh start, but Wade gets stuck with the burden of failure and—following the deaths of his wife and unborn son—heartache. He’s retreated to his mountain farm with his plucky overall-wearing daughter, Charlotte, determined to keep her safe from the criminals who frequent gold rush boomtowns like the county seat of Dahlonega.

But then a new teacher arrives…one who is also fleeing heartache in hopes of a fresh start. Forced by the mistakes of her drunken father to seek employment in the gold fields rather than at the prestigious girls’ academy from which she just graduated, Adelaide Duncan has no other choice than to make her way in Dahlonega. If that means doing battle with thieves on the square, a pompous school board president, and bullies as big as she is, fine.

The one battle she doesn’t count on is keeping her heart safe from a moody widower who needs convincing by Addie and his aunt, the owner of the boardinghouse where Addie lodges, that his mannerless daughter desperately needs to attend school. It soon enough becomes clear that, despite her guardedness, Lottie longs for a mother’s love. Just when the discovery of gold on Wade’s land allows him to picture a family in his future, an old nemesis shows up with a new scheme…one that once again endangers the women Wade loves.

The Schoolmarm and the Miner packs humor, romance, action, and all your favorite tropes into a real-life town setting so charming, it’s a Hallmark movie-filming destination. After you read the story, you’ll want to plan a road trip to tour the gold museum in the historic courthouse and the drippy tunnels of the Consolidated Gold Mine, one of many that operated in Lumpkin County from the 1830s through the early 1900s. As you wander the North Georgia mountains, you’ll see why I’ve long felt there’s still plenty of treasure there. And fodder for great stories!

My Impressions

“Education holds the key to everything, especially for women.”

Denise Farnsworth, formerly Weimer, has penned a great conclusion to the Twenty-niners of the Gold Rush series. The Schoolmarm and the Miner is a historical fiction novel packed with historical vignettes woven together with faith and a bit of imagination to bring this little-known time to life. I feel I have a much clearer picture of life just before the Trail of Tears due to this series and what precipitated that tragic event, as well as the wildness and greed of many of the new settlers.

Addie Duncan, a brand new teacher, has to settle for a job in 1839 in the rough gold mining town of Dahlonega, GA. Her father’s actions remove any better choices. The headmistress of the school where she had hoped to be employed tells her, “…I’ve always found that when God closes a door, He always opens a window.” Addie reluctantly moves to the outlying town, thankful that a hopeful suitor, Micah Garrison, is also moving there to work in the mine’s offices.

Surprises galore await Addie. She does not expect to have to campaign with the school board for the job. She does not expect a bully for a school board president, nor students who will challenge her sanity and safety, let alone her ability to teach. And she certainly does not expect to fall for a struggling widowed farmer with a young daughter who needs to be in school, but has never been apart from daddy.

Can you sense a perfect storm brewing? I admired Addie for her courage, her tenacity to continue as a teacher despite the difficulties thrust upon her, her creativity, and her love for the students. As the book progressed, there are even more reasons to love her that I can’t give away because spoilers!

Just like intended, I was not Team Micah. I was Team Wade. But Wade is like the gold many are searching for. He needs some refining before he can be his best. His past has made him bitter, seeking revenge. Wade is also overprotective of his daughter and possibly not seeing her in all of her needs. Yikes! Problems are coming!

“Let’s just say things are not always as they seem.” Micah, discussing his new job with Addie. To muddy the waters, Micah shows up to confuse Addie’s loyalties and to make it appear he has a claim on Addie.

My fave character? Aunt Grace. She lives up to her name, taking Addie under her wing as soon as she meets her. She provides company, wisdom, and help with dealing with a determined six-year-old. Plus, she is self-sacrificing.

I was holding my breath as this story rose to its climax. I suggest getting your hands on this series and reading all three in order, because of the timeline involved. Recommended for historical fiction fans, fans of American history, and those who want to understand events surrounding the Trail of Tears.

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

Notable Quotables:

“At least a real education lets women know they should have choices. And it opens up a few options to those who don’t wish to marry. Or who do marry but find themselves on their own later in life.”

“He needed lasting change, though. He needed lasting change, though. He needed to deal with the root cause—unforgiveness. He’d started praying about that, but it was a work in progress.”

“You ask the impossible.” “No. With God, all things are possible. But not all things are permissible.” She tightened her fingers around his neck as if to emphasize her point. “I won’t live with a man eaten up with bitterness.”– Wade, Addie

“I think we should appeal to that good quality in her nature and flip the narrative. Instead of her needing us, show how we need her.” – Addie

“I’m saying the hurt may not have healed yet, and in her mind, anything that makes her feel it must be avoided.” – Addie

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superior! I am a follower of Denise Weimer (now Denise Farnsworth)’s stories about historic settings in our country. This novel needed to be told to wrap up events of the previous books.

Blog Stops

Fiction Book Lover, May 12 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 12

Texas Book-aholic, May 13

For Him and My Family, May 14

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 15

Lakesidelivingsite , May 15

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 16

Devoted To Hope, May 17

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 18

Books You Can Feel Good About, May 19

Connie’s History Classroom, May 20

Simple Harvest Reads, May 21 (Guest Review from Donna)

Holly’s Book Corner, May 22

Cover Lover Book Review, May 23

Pause for Tales, May 24

Lyssa Loves Books, May 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Denise 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://gleam.io/DSQoC/the-schoolmarm-and-the-miner-celebration-tour-giveaway

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

The Doctor’s Convenient Marriage by Lauralyn Keller Review and Giveaway

February 3, 2026 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Doctor’s Convenient Marriage

Author: Lauralyn Keller

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: January 20, 2026

She wants the freedom to practice medicine, and he needs a wife. But their bold escape from Boston’s high society rests on a marriage vow neither intended to make real.

Victoria Mountbatten has fought hard to earn her medical degree, but her powerful father uses his influence to block any doctor from hiring her. Faced with an ultimatum—marry a society gentleman or face disinheritance, Tori sees only one path to freedom. She makes a bold proposition to Dr. Harrison Blake, a colleague she’s worked alongside for years: a plan that will take them far from Boston’s stifling society.

Harrison Blake has always dreamed of building a hospital in the untamed West where he can truly help people. But his inheritance comes with a catch—he must marry before his thirtieth birthday. So even though Tori’s proposal is shocking, a marriage of convenience may be the perfect solution for both of them.

In the quiet moments of Harmony Springs, feelings grow and lines blur. Can their partnership blossom into true love, or will the walls around their hearts destroy the fragile trust they’ve built?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lauralyn Kellerloves to combine history and romance in stories that touch the heart. She lives in beautiful Colorado and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, hiking, and reading.

More from Lauralyn

You might have noticed all three books in the Second Chances in Harmony Springs series feature a marriage of convenience. While that was partly for continuity, it also spoke to my own heart.

I love this trope. There’s something beautiful about the type of romance where two people agree to something practical and unemotional, only to slowly discover all the messy, tender, unexpected feelings they absolutely did notplan for. It’s a popular trope because beneath the external circumstances—inheritance rules, social expectations, survival needs—lies a universal truth: sometimes love grows in the unlikeliest places.

For me, the appeal isn’t just the forced proximity or the slow-burn tension, though I love both. It’s the way a practical arrangement forces two people to reveal their truest selves. A marriage of convenience strips away the excitement of courtship and goes straight to the heart of compatibility. The characters must ask: Can we build a life together? Can we rely on each other? Can we trust each other with our hopes, fears, and futures?

Those are deeply romantic questions, even when the relationship begins with a contract instead of a kiss.

In The Doctor’s Convenient Marriage, Tori and Harrison enter their agreement not out of despair, but from determination. Tori refuses to sacrifice her dream of practicing medicine, even as Boston society tries to conform her to their expectations. Harrison is more heart-driven, longing to build a hospital in the untamed West where he can serve those who need it most. Their marriage isn’t about survival. It’s about carving out the freedom to become who they were meant to be.

That mutual ambition changes the dynamic. Instead of one rescuing the other, they rescue each other, and in doing so, they learn to see beyond professional camaraderie into something far deeper and more vulnerable.

What I love most about their journey is the way real affection steals up on them quietly. They start as friends and coworkers, but then things begin to change. Little glances. Quiet confessions. Moments of care neither expected to give or receive.

A marriage forged for convenience becomes a partnership rooted in respect. And that becomes the foundation for love. That’s the irresistible beauty of this trope: the idea that love can flourish not in spite of practicality, but right alongside it.

I hope you love this story as much as I do. It’s a heartfelt conclusion to a series that’s been in the works for years. I’m deeply grateful to all who’ve come along on this journey, and I look forward to seeing where the road takes us from here.

My Impressions

“If we join our lives, it’s to get something we both want. Love—or the idea of love—just complicates things.”

Victoria Mountbatten has a rather jaded view of marriage, but she knows what she wants out of life. Lauralyn Keller’s The Doctor’s Convenient Marriage, bk 3 of Second Chances in Harmony Springs, takes us on a delightful trip. I loved knowing where the story was headed (the marriage of convenience is sure to turn to love), but I had no idea of the harrowing route Tori and Harrison would travel to get there. And what a fun time I had, following this couple’s very bumpy journey!

Forced to marry to save their individual dreams, Tori and Harrison move to Harmony Springs to build a hospital and provide health care to the small late nineteenth century community. I could feel the freedom of the breeze, smell the clean air, see the wide stretches of rangeland that surround the town. And I could feel the deep disappointment Tori feels when many of the townsfolk do not consider her as capable a doctor as her husband. But this is where Harrison shines! He is so calming and reasonable as he talks Tori down from her quick temper. He complements Tori so well, but Tori is afraid to love. “How could she trust a husband to love her when her own father had failed to do so?” Harrison is so tender with Tori, yet Tori keeps pushing back against admitting that their relationship can be anything more than just a business arrangement.

My least fave characters are Ella and Tori’s parents. Which then makes my fave secondary characters be Harrison’s parents. They are so opposite the Mountbattens , and the Blakes genuinely love their adult children. But I wanted to cry for all the emotional abuse Ella and Tori had grown up enduring.

I enjoyed seeing the love of sisters played out between Ella and Tori. A sister is a treasure, for sure!

This tale flows smoothly, balancing Truth, lots of action, relationships, and meaningful conversations. I’d love to visit the town again.

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

Notable Quotables:

“Justice is important… But there is something more important than justice… Love.” – Harrison

“Whatever you do, make sure any decisions made with a person are made with that person.” – Samuel

“If she let herself love him, he’d have the power to break her. Was love worth that risk?”

“Relationships are about honesty. There’s always some give and take. Nothing is going to be perfect. You have to decide what’s worth fighting for and what can be given up. “ – Travis

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! A great book to revisit on a rainy (or snowy) day!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 3

Texas Book-aholic, February 4

Pause for Tales, February 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 6

Simple Harvest Reads, February 7 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Jodie Wolfe, February 7

Bizwings Blog, February 8

For Him and My Family, February 9

Devoted To Hope, February 10

lakesidelivingsite, February 11

Lyssa Loves Books, February 11

Books You Can Feel Good About, February 12

Devoted Steps, February 13

Cover Lover Book Review, February 14

Vicky Sluiter, February 15

Holly’s Book Corner, February 15

Connie’s History Classroom, February 16

Mary Hake, February 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lauralyn 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://gleam.io/pX7ww/the-doctors-convenient-marriage-celebration-tour-giveaway

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, 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, Just Read Tours, Kindle, Purchase

No Plan at All by Denise M. Colby

November 30, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Title: No Plan at All

Series: Best Laid Plans #3

Author: Denise M. Colby

Publisher: Scrivenings Press

Released: November 4, 2025

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Sometimes the best life is the one we never planned.

Sarah Anne Baker never wanted to be anyone’s burden. But hours after losing the Godmother who raised her, she faces an impossible choice: marry her late fiancé’s brother—or flee into the unknown. With fear as her only companion, she places her trust in the one man leaving town that night—the enigmatic traveling peddler known only as Mr. Smith.

Alexander Sinclair walked away from his noble title in Scotland to live a quiet, hidden life. Peddling wares from town to town has given him peace, free from the weight of expectation. Until a desperate young woman crosses his path. He can’t turn her away… no matter the cost.

Together, Sarah and Alex set out on a journey through loss, healing, and a bond neither expected to find. But as secrets surface and choices demand to be made, both must decide: cling to the lives they planned—or risk everything to embrace the future God has written for them.

A tender tale of courage, redemption, and love strong enough to change the course of two hearts forever.

About the Author

Passionate about all types of stories—whether they are from songs, theatre, movies, or novels—Denise M. Colby loves history and constantly finds herself contemplating how it was to live in the 1800s.

An avid journal writer, Denise usually can be found with a pen and notepad whenever she’s reading God’s word. Each year, Denise chooses a word to focus on. She shares her learnings about that word throughout the year on the two blogs she writes for.

A wife for thirty years and mother to three boys and daughter-in-love, Denise loves to read, watch movies with her family, sing 80s and musical songs, dance, and spend date nights with her husband.

Writing Historical Christian Romance novels combines her love of learning about history and reading. Visit Denise’s website to sign up for her newsletter or connect with her on her social media.

https://denisemcolby.com/

Also available:

My Impressions:

“…they needed to piece together some sort of plan they both could accept.”

No Plan at At All is a fun historical romance by Denise M. Colby. Young Sarah hitches a ride with a traveling peddler, Alex Smith, in a last- ditch effort to avoid a marriage to a man she doesn’t love.

With no plan in place at all, but simply to escape that unwanted life, Sarah unknowingly puts poor Alex (and herself)in a very compromising position. Two young unmarried persons traveling together.

Sarah finds a way to make herself indispensable to Alex, while still staying out of sight. Their journey is fraught with fear of discovery, constant illness, and a gradual attraction that develops, though secrets unknown will keep the two from being able to act on their feelings.

Alma, a fave secondary character, is a much -needed friendly mother-type figure for Sarah. When Sarah relays her true feelings to the sweet older lady, Alma sagely tells her, “What you feel is real. Sometimes we can’t control the feelings, but we can ask the Lord to help guide our actions.”

I wasn’t sure at first what to think of Will, Sarah’s brother. He certainly is an example someone whose actions may or may not be as interpreted. I did like one piece of advice Will had for his sister:

“Praying is a practice everyone needs to put into motion. You have to work at it. It doesn’t happen automatically. And you have to keep at it.” Always a good reminder!

Tropes of hidden identity and forced proximity together with faith nuggets and historical romance flavored with Scottish influence, make this a fun story. I did keep looking for a wandering rooster, to no avail!

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:

“In the daylight everything was exposed. More pronounced. The sun shone on things that were easy to hide in the dark.”

“You know how the people of the world see things. The perception is much worse than the actual reality.”

“But I also trust God to provide. His ways are better than me own. I can’t go out in the world fearful of things going wrong.”

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great! A very fun story with some great lessons!

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

Maggie and the Maverick by Erica Vetsch Review and Giveaway

November 14, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: Maggie and the Maverick

Author: Erica Vetsch

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: October 13, 2025

A jaded lady marshal and a stage driver with a past—bound by duty, tested by lies, and drawn to a love that could change everything.

A wary lady marshal and a reformed stage driver—entangled by secrets, shadowed by danger, and tempted by a love neither dared to trust.

U.S. Marshal Maggie Davis has learned the hard way not to trust men with charming smiles and winning ways. Her reticence makes her the perfect undercover investigator for a string of daring stage robberies. When the case leads her to stay with a local family, she finds herself drawn to Cal McConnell, the handsome stage driver who could either be her greatest ally or her prime suspect.

Cal has worked hard to put his wild past behind him and build an honest life as a stage driver. When a mysterious new lady comes to town selling ladies’ garments, he’s instantly captivated by her beauty and fierce independence. But as stage robberies escalate and murder enters the picture, Cal must decide if he can trust this woman who seems determined to keep him at arm’s length—even as his heart tells him she could be the one.

When the line between truth and deception blurs, will they cling to caution—or risk everything for something real?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Best-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetschloves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum.

More from Erica

Did you ever watch the movie Stagecoach? The movie that launched John Wayne’s career? My father introduced me to the movie when I was young, and that sparked my interest in westward expansion, cowboys, and stagecoaches.

When I was a teen, I read a book called Six Horse Hitch, by author Janice Holt Giles. In the book, she goes into all the details of stagecoach driving, stations across the west, the coaches, the passengers, the US mail delivery, and more. I was enthralled.

Stagecoach drivers (sometimes called Jehus) were a breed apart. Brave, resilient, and bold. Heroic.

Which meant, when I became an author, I wanted to create a hero who was a stagecoach driver. Enter Cal McConnell in Maggie and the Maverick. He’s the third of three sons, with a dry humor, and a bit of a jaded outlook on life.

Truthfully, I patterned him after Heath Barkley, a character on the 1960’s TV show, The Big Valley, played by Lee Majors. Even down to the light brown/dark blond hair and blue eyes.

One thing that is important when writing romance is to ensure that the heroine is worthy of the hero and vice versa. So I imagined what kind of a woman would be a great life partner for Cal. She would have to be spunky, smart, and compassionate.

Maggie Davis, an undercover agent, fit the bill. Her guise was that of a ladies’ unmentionables saleswoman, and that job leads to a memorable encounter upon meeting Cal for the first time.

I’m so thankful that Maggie and the Maverick is getting a new release out into the world through Wild Heart Books. I hope that you enjoy this rollicking western with a stage driving hero and undercover agent heroine.

My Impressions

“Agents who worked secretly for the U. S. Marshal’s office couldn’t afford to let anyone that close. Which made Maggie the perfect candidate for this type work. She didn’t trust anyone anyway.”

Erica Vetsch has re-released her series The Brides of Money Creek, as part of The Brides of the West series with Wild Heart Books. Maggie and the Maverick is the third book in the Brides of Money Creek sub-series.

A historical romantic fiction novel set in the Old West, Maggie and the Maverick has a bit of an unusual premise. The stage has been robbed multiple times near Silver Creek, and US Marshalls are secretly sent in to discover who the thieves are. One undercover Marshall is Maggie Davis, who is to ride the stage back and forth, posing as a salesperson for ladies’ unmentionables. A very amusing incident occurs as Maggie meets our hero, stage driver Cal McConnell for the first time.

Both Maggie and Cal have had very hard knocks in life that have caused them to be slow to trust. As Cal realizes, “Trust is built up slow.” If only he knew just how slow!

While both try to guard their hearts, what will happen when they both prove untrustworthy? It’s like hearing the Oregon Trail disaster music playing, this time not only for any romance between Cal and Maggie, but for their bruised hearts as well.

Fave secondary characters are Georgia, Jack, and Angus. Georgia for her loyalty and willingness to listen to people who have messed up. Jack, because he’s not very brave or confident, yet he’s a wild card. Who will he help when the chips are down? He’s a great catalyst to story action. And Angus. Stinkin’ drunk, no- good, tavern vermin Angus. Maybe no one is beyond redemption.

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:

“It’s been my experience that people who are suspicious of everybody are usually hiding something.” – Cal

“I’ve been paying lip-service to trusting God and not being afraid of what men can do to me, then turning back to do things my way.” – Maggie

“I don’t think Cal will survive much more of you doing your job.” – Alec

“Her experience told her once a scoundrel always a scoundrel, and it was the ones who pretended to change that needed watching the most.” – (Maggie)

“She played you like a fiddle, and you danced like a trained bear.”– Powers

“Both of them taught us how much we needed God’s love and forgiveness.” – Cal

My Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great! Fun historical romance set in the Old West.

Blog Stops

Devoted Steps, November 11

Pens Pages & Pulses, November 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 12

Lyssa Loves Books, November 12

Fiction Book Lover, November 13 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Texas Book-aholic, November 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 14

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 15

For Him and My Family, November 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 16

Devoted To Hope, November 16

Melissa’s Bookshelf, November 17

Artistic Nobody, November 17 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

She Lives To Read, November 18

lakesidelivingsite, November 18

Simple Harvest Reads, November 19 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 19

Book Looks by Lisa, November 20

Life on Chickadee Lane, November 21

The Mommies Reviews, November 21

Cover Lover Book Review, November 22

Blossoms and Blessings, November 23

Holly’s Book Corner, November 23

Vicky Sluiter, November 24

Pause for Tales, November 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Erica 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/3d59d/maggie-and-the-maverick-celebration-tour-giveaway

ARC, BLOG, JustRead Tour

A Lady Divided by Sandra Ardoin Review and Giveaway

August 29, 2025 Babbling Becky L

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Lady Divided by Sandra Ardoin, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Lady Divided
Series: House of Fire #1
Author: Sandra Ardoin
Publisher: Corner Room Books
Release Date: August 28, 2025
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Just when she thinks she’s defeated the past, it returns with a vengeance.

Fighting to keep her late husband’s dream alive and her land-grabbing neighbors at bay, Laurel Tillman longs for a peace she knew before the war. But when her skill with a rifle saves a stranger from a mountain lion attack—a man whose life she once wouldn’t have hesitated to take—wartime memories rush back.

While raising her daughter and taking responsibility for the stray women who work on her sheep ranch, Laurel can’t wait to get the injured Yankee out of her house. Getting him out of her heart is an entirely different matter.

Quinn Spencer, a former Union cavalry officer, owes Laurel a debt, but his career as a new lawyer in town comes with a warning to stay away from the unconventional women of La Casa del Fuego. Then, with the discovery of a dead man on Laurel’s ranch, Quinn must choose between his career and justice for a woman who can’t bear the sight of him.

As they battle an unknown adversary who sets out to destroy Laurel, will she join forces with her former enemy? Or will she allow the past to overcome any chance of a truce between them . . . and, possibly, something more?

Meet the women of La Casa del Fuego—House of Fire—as they are forced by circumstances to live their lives outside the bounds of accepted femininity.

Also Available

About the Author

As the author of reader-described heartwarming historical and contemporary romance, Sandra Ardoin engages readers with page-turning stories of love and faith.

She is the married mother of a young adult and co-sitter for a granddog. As well as being a team member in her church’s library, she reads Christian fiction, binges TV shows with her husband, and seldom says no to eating out.

Visit her at sandraardoin.com. Connect with her on BookBub, Facebook, X, and Goodreads. Subscribe to the newsletter and keep up with what’s new, discover what’s upcoming, and learn of specials.

My Impressions

“The past was an evil devil to fight.”

Who doesn’t remember “The Island of Misfit Toys”? Sandra Ardoin’s A Lady Divided ( House of Fire, Bk#1) brings that concept to mind in human form. We are transported back in time to a few years (1877) after the Civil War in Texas. Our nation has started to rebuild, but some find it hard to forget the atrocities of the war and even harder to forgive those who hail from the other side of the Mason-Dixon Line. Instead of an island of misfit toys, we have a ranch of “misfit women.” Women who have been wounded by life, and rejecthe acceptable society norms of femininity at that time. At their helm is widow Mrs. Laurel Tillman, who lives on a ranch with her widowed mother and young daughter. The few ranch hands she has, like her, dress like men and do ranch jobs that make them the fodder for malicious gossip in a world concerned with conformity.

When Laurel saves the life of former Union Major Quinn Spencer who happens on her land, an enemies-to-possibly more relationship is established. But, oh, Laurel has guilt from the past that she is sure God could never forgive, and she carries the burden of the safety of all the ranch women like a heavy yoke.

“Oh, if only she could feel the rest that Jesus promised. The peace. But her sinful actions were too great.” As Laurel deals with the mountain of unrest in her heart, her bitterness threatens to eat her alive, and often those around her. Yet, those closest to her can see her actions come from her conflicted heart, reflecting the conflict of the divided States. Yet, she refuses to lay her burden down. Her mother tries to reach her, only to have Laurel turn a deaf ear. “I hate to see you suffer like this. He’s waiting, Laurel. All you have to do is walk toward Him. ‘Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’”

I loved this story for its unwrapping of the human emotions that are buried ( or not) just under the surface in a nation yet divided. I loved the understanding of the women that they could do hard work and it was respectable, even if it wasn’t acceptable in society. I yearned for the secrets that both Laurel and Quinn keep close to their vests. The constant mystery and danger from the the world outside Laurel’s ranch bubble make for an exciting read, as does the faith journey that so many of the characters are required to make. Will they progress towards what is right, or will they choose the comfortable answers to appease those around them? Convicting as I tried to put myself in their shoes!

Oh, yes! Did I mention humor and twists?! Be prepared! They are the cream cheese icing on a great carrot cake!

I had a three-way tie for fave secondary characters. Ernie, Becky, and the Marshall. And I love that we are well-set up for sequels!

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

Notable Quotables:

“…no one’s past is as it should be.” …“The only person in this world who never sinned was Jesus. His sacrifice gave imperfect human beings like you and me the way to become perfect in God’s sight.” – Quinn

“God still loves me. He never turned His back on me. Even though I turned mine on Him, He waited for me to return.”- Laurel

“How could she live in peace with others when she found it so hard to live peacefully with herself?”– Laurel

“Did she dare to think God loved her so much that He allowed the death of His own Son for someone like her? No. There must be an exception, a limit to His grace and mercy.”- Laurel

“‘I don’t hate you. Momma always said I shouldn’t hate.’ When had that stopped her? ‘But I see nothing wrong with comparing you to a long-tailed rodent.’”– Laurel- taste of novel’s humor!

My Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Magnificent! 5 big Texas stars!!

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card and two (2) ebooks of their choice from Sandra Ardoin’s Published Books!

(1) winner will receive three (3) ebooks of their choice from Sandra Ardoin’s Published Books

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 25, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 1, 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!

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The Reverend’s Second Chance by Lauralyn Keller Review and Giveaway

July 21, 2025July 21, 2025 Babbling Becky L

About the Book

Book: The Reverend’s Second Chance

Author: Lauralyn Keller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 15, 2025

A buried secret in Harmony Springs could cost a pastor and a teacher their careers—and their second chance at love.

Lydia Jefferson buried her dreams long before the death of her husband. Now she’s locked her heart to men for good. In Harmony Springs, she’s finally found freedom from the shameful failure and loss of her past—until her childhood sweetheart arrives to be the new pastor.

Samuel Allen never thought he’d love again, not after his fiancée walked out of his life. But when his first church assignment sends him to Harmony Springs, he finds himself face to face with the woman who disappeared from his life seven years before. Could this be a second chance at love? Unfortunately, she wants nothing to do with him.

When an orphaned child brings Lydia and Samuel together again, can they face the pain of their past and learn to trust each other enough to build a home?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lauralyn Keller loves to combine history and romance in stories that touch the heart. She lives in beautiful Colorado and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, hiking, and reading.

More from Lauralyn

Baking is one of my favorite activities. I find it relaxing, and it’s so fun trying new recipes. You might have noticed that there are generally some kind of dish or treat in my stories that characters really like. For Lydia Jefferson in The Reverend’s Second Chance, that treat is a cookie called cinnamon jumbles. It plays a part in her love story with Samuel Allen, the new pastor for Harmony Springs.

I asked ChatGPT how to make the best cinnamon jumbles. Here’s what it came up with.

Cinnamon jumbles are such a cozy, nostalgic treat! They’re chewy cookies with the perfect balance of cinnamon sugar, and they’re pretty easy to make. Here’s a recipe that will give you soft, chewy cinnamon jumbles with a nice little crunch on the outside.

Best Cinnamon Jumbles Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for rolling)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined. Don’t overmix—this will keep your cookies tender.
Roll the Dough: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon for rolling. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Bake: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Softness: For softer cookies, don’t overbake them. The cookies will continue to cook a little as they cool on the baking sheet.
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They should stay soft for about 3-4 days. 😊

I (Lauralyn) hope you enjoy this cookie recipe. Maybe you can even make them and enjoy a few with a nice cup of coffee or tea while reading The Reverend’s Second Chance. Lydia would approve.

God bless,

Lauralyn

My Impressions

“… ‘not forgiving hurts you in the end. It hurts your relationship with God too.’ He pointed to the cross over the altar. ‘Considering what He did for us—dying to forgive our sins—I think we should take our example from Him.’”

The easy, gentle romance and historical Western aspects of Lauralyn Keller’s The Reverend’s Second Chance were a breath of fresh air this week. I was certainly in the mood for this novel, which is easy to read and reminiscent of the style of Janette Oke or Kim Vogel Sawyer books. This is a marriage of convenience story, where much of the book’s action takes place after said marriage.

Lydia and Samuel had been childhood sweethearts who were separated by poor decisions and time. Shocked to find themselves together in the same small town, Samuel realizes his feelings for her never changed. Lydia, however, is determined to stay far away emotionally.

I was thankful to see that Lydia had good friends and a mother-in-law who loved her enough to see the roots of her problem with Samuel are anger and bitterness. “Forgiveness doesn’t come easily…you owe it to yourself to forgive him. It’s only going to eat at you more and more until bitterness is your constant companion.”– Dorothy

When the marriage occurs, Lydia brings no love. Instead, she brings a walled heart, determined not to be hurt again. Maybe she can forgive, but trust? Again, Lydia’s confidants point out that love is more than a feeling, but a choice. “Love is hard,” Cassie said. “It means making the decision every day to love the person you vowed to cherish. Sometimes you won’t feel it, but you can still choose it.”

With all the feels of Little House on the Prairie or When Calls the Heart, this story from the 1880s Montana Territory will serve up a generous slice of small town life with its challenges, friendships, and victories. I must applaud Ruby and Alice, 6-year-olds, as adorable scene stealers! My fave adult characters are John and Dorothy, with their non-judgmental ways and sage, godly advice.

Book 2 in the Second Chances in Harmony Springs series, I thought this book stood well on its own. Highly recommended!

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:

“Some family you’re born with. Some family you choose.” -Cassie

“…you can’t let fear hold you captive. We can’t change what’s going to be. But we can choose to trust, no matter what may come.” -John

“You can’t control the feeling of anger, but you can control how you act.” – Cody