She needs a husband to survive. Right now, a wife is the last thing he wants.
August 1780. After the Battle of Camden leaves British camp follower Bess Eaton widowed, expecting a child, and stranded in enemy territory, she faces two impossible choices: a return to an England that offers her nothing…or marriage to a stranger before the army marches on without her.
Backcountry loyalist Rob MacFarlane has already buried a wife and son and has no intention of marrying again at this moment. But he can’t ignore the vulnerable widow in his path. What begins as an act of duty quickly becomes something far more complicated when he offers Bess protection—and a name.
As war rages and the British cause begins to crumble, their fragile alliance is tested at every turn. Loyalties fracture. Faith is questioned. And the lines between enemy and neighbor blur. To survive, Rob must decide what allegiance truly costs—and Bess must choose whether she can trust not only the man she married…but the God she’s never fully known.
If you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, you should check out Shannon McNear’s Loyalty’s Pursuit.
So if you are looking for a Christian Historical Romance, check out Loyalty’s Pursuit by Shannon McNear.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All my opinions are my own.
About the Author
Transplanted to the far north after more than two decades in the Deep South, Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. She’s the author of twenty-one novels and novellas, not all of them in print, but her favorite roles are retired military wife, pastor’s wife, mom-of-many, mother-in-law, and grammie. When not cooking, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, hanging out with her grandbabies and basking in the beauty of the northern prairies.
More from Shannon
I’m so honored to be part of yet another Celebrate Lit tour! This story especially is near and dear to my heart, because it was my very first long historical after writing fantasy for decades, the book I still had in process when I submitted the proposal for my first novella, Defending Truth, and the one which gave me the courage to try that story (and genre) to begin with.
The first draft of this story took five years to complete, in between other projects and real life. It was a hard sell to start with, I knew, being set within the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution but from the British and Loyalist viewpoint. Still, it eventually netted me both of my agents (Defending Truth’s RITA® nomination didn’t hurt there, either) while garnering interest from various editors—but didn’t actually sell until last summer. That means this story languished for more than 10 years—and then the Lord Himself practically dropped this contract in my lap.
The first story of how the concept came to me can be found here:
It was on my heart from the beginning to portray the romance, such as it is, in a rather unconventional way—something closer to what I imagine real life must have been for such a situation. And I deliberately steered away from the usual flowery declarations of love between my main couple, while hoping to present them in such a way that the reader has no doubt by the end of the story that they do absolutely care for each other. My dear editor with Wild Heart Books helped me shape and refine the characters and story from what might have been a more straightforward historical fiction read into more of what a historical romance reader might expect. I hope those expectations are now met, but also that my readers also come away with a fresh appreciation for how our country came to be.
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction, Faith Redemption murder mystery, Murder intrigue
Release Date: August, 2026
Helen Moore was devastated when she learned her husband was missing and presumed dead in the Civil War. Fortunately, Uncle Henry invited her and her son, Aaron, to apprentice with his photography studio in Marietta, Ga, after the war. However, while planting herbs on his property, she unearthed a body no one could identify. Who put the man there? Was her uncle involved in his death? As she unravels the mystery, she finds unexpected companionship and learns every moment in life matters.
Moment in Time by Cynthia L. Simmons combines aspects of Christian Historical Fiction, Faith Redemption murder mystery, and Murder intrigue elements.
A fresh start at her uncle’s photography studio sounds like just what Helen Moore needs—finding a body while planting herbs? That certainly wasn’t part of the plan.
With her husband missing and presumed dead in the Civil War, Helen tries to build a future for herself and her son, Aaron. Uncle Henry’s invitation to join him in Marietta, Georgia, offers something she desperately needs: a place to begin again. There’s something about that uncertainty that draws me to Helen. She’s facing a life she never expected, with a child depending on her and no easy answers about what comes next.
Then a discovery on her uncle’s property turns that welcome refuge into a place of suspicion. Who is the man buried there, and how did he end up in Uncle Henry’s garden? The question that makes this mystery especially intriguing is whether the person helping Helen rebuild her life could be hiding something terrible. It gives her search for answers a deeply personal cost.
I’m particularly drawn to the photography studio setting. It offers an interesting backdrop for a story about loss and the value of the moments we’re given. And with unexpected companionship entering Helen’s life, there’s the promise of more than secrets and suspicion—there’s room for hope, too.
The combination of a puzzling discovery and a mother trying to find her way makes this an appealing premise. If you enjoy historical mysteries with family questions, emotional stakes, and the possibility of a new beginning, Helen’s story may be one to add to your reading list.
So if you want a Christian Historical Fiction, Faith Redemption murder mystery, and/or Murder intrigue story, check out Moment in Time by Cynthia L. Simmons.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Cynthia L Simmons and her husband have five grown children . She loves hot tea, orchids, and adores historical research. Her ragdoll cats often sit by her when she writes. Cynthia has written historical fiction, mysteries, Bible studies, homeschool curriculum, devotions, and hosts Heart of the Matter Radio/podcast, posts History Chats, and shares history stories to encourage women.
More from Cynthia
Secrets in the Darkroom: Welcome to the Moment in Time Blog Tour!
What if the key to solving a dangerous post-war mystery was hidden in a photographic negative?
Welcome, readers and bloggers! I am beyond thrilled to kick off the Celebrate Lit blog tour for my newest historical mystery, Moment in Time!
If you love rich historical detail, high-stakes suspense, hidden ciphers, and stories of unexpected hope rebuilding from the ashes, then step back with me to 1867 Marietta, Georgia.
About the Story
The Civil War may be over, but for the town of Marietta, the fight to rebuild has just begun.
When Helen, a former midwife, takes a job assisting her uncle in his photography studio, she expects darkroom chemicals and quiet portraits. Instead, she stumbles into a web of secret codes, hidden motives, and a threat creeping through the Reconstruction-era town.
Teamed up with Edward—a former Union surgeon carrying his own deep wounds—the two must decipher the clues before time runs out. In a world of wet-plate glass negatives and volatile chemicals, every single second matters… because someone in Marietta will do whatever it takes to keep the past buried.
Book: Embers of Endurance: Rising Above Chronic Pain and Illness
Author: Carolyn Dale Newell
Genre: Christian Devotional
Release Date: February 17, 2026
When chronic pain invaded Carolyn Dale Newell’s life, it didn’t just attack her body—it attacked her faith.
Through crippling sciatica, major spinal fusion surgery, and countless complications that left her in agony, Carolyn found herself in the darkest valley she’d ever known.
But in that darkness, she discovered something powerful: God’s grace truly is sufficient, even when it doesn’t feel like it.
In this raw, honest 30-day devotional, Carolyn walks alongside you through the unique spiritual battle of chronic illness. She shares the biblical truths that sustained her through the fire and will sustain you too.
Like embers rising from ashes, you can find beauty again.
Begin your journey from surviving to thriving in chronic pain now.
If you are looking for a Christian devotional, you need to check out Embers of Endurance: Rising Above Chronic Pain and Illness by Carolyn Dale Newell.
Have you ever gone through a season of life when you knew God was there, but struggled to feel His presence? When you’ve prayed, trusted, and waited, yet nothing seems to change? I think those can be some of the hardest moments in our walk with Christ. We know what Scripture tells us about God’s faithfulness, but holding on to those truths when life hurts isn’t always easy. That’s one of the reasons Carolyn Dale Newell’s 30-day devotional resonated with me.
Carolyn shares her personal journey through chronic pain, including debilitating sciatica, major spinal fusion surgery, and complications that challenged her physically, emotionally, and spiritually. What stood out to me wasn’t just everything she endured, but how honestly she shares the struggles with her faith. I appreciate that vulnerability because I think, as Christians, we sometimes feel like we’re supposed to have it all together, even when we’re barely holding on.
One of the things I appreciated most was that Carolyn doesn’t offer quick fixes or make suffering sound easier than it is. Instead, she shares the biblical truths that helped her through some incredibly difficult days. Sometimes, we don’t need someone telling us to have more faith. We need encouragement from someone who understands the struggle and can gently point us back to God’s Word.
The message of God’s sufficient grace especially spoke to my heart. One of the prayers I often return to is, “Not in my own strength, Lord, not in my own strength. Guide me. Direct me. Help me.” As I reflected on Carolyn’s story, I was reminded how often I want God to give me answers instead of simply trusting Him. I like knowing what’s ahead, and waiting on His timing isn’t always easy. But sometimes He doesn’t show us the whole picture. He gives us the strength to take the next step.
I also loved the imagery of embers rising from the ashes and the reminder that beauty can still be found amid suffering. Sometimes we’re so focused on wanting our circumstances to change that we overlook the quieter ways God is working—a timely Scripture, an encouraging conversation, or an unexpected moment of peace. Those little reminders of His presence can mean so much.
Although this devotional is written for those living with chronic pain, I believe its message reaches beyond physical suffering. We all face seasons when life feels overwhelming and trusting God is easier said than done. I appreciate that Carolyn reminds us we can bring our fears, frustrations, and questions to Him without pretending everything is fine.
What stayed with me most is that hope doesn’t always mean our circumstances will change. Sometimes, it means learning to recognize God’s presence right where we are. I think that’s an especially meaningful message for anyone facing ongoing struggles.
If you or someone you love is dealing with chronic pain, I would encourage you to consider this devotional. Even if chronic illness isn’t part of your story, there’s encouragement here for anyone walking through a difficult season.
More than anything, this devotional reminded me that I don’t have to have all the answers or face life’s challenges in my own strength. I need to keep turning to the One who does.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
So if you want a new Christian devotional, check out Embers of Endurance: Rising Above Chronic Pain and Illness by Carolyn Dale Newell. I definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All my opinions are my own.
About the Author
Carolyn Dale Newell is a bestselling and award-winning Christian author, certified speaker, andcontributor to iBelieve.com. Despite living with chronic pain, she empowers women to break free from emotional strongholds and embrace lives transformed by faith. She resides in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia with her husband and their two loyal Black Labrador Retrievers.
More from Carolyn
The Reason I Wrote Embers of Endurance
While discouragement had its tentacles wrapped tightly around me, it seemed easier for doubt to chisel away at my faith. Before I realized it, I was depressed, living without joy and peace. Life seemed hopeless because surgery changed my life forever.
Once God brought me out of the darkness, I began finding Scriptures I’d never given much attention. Job and the psalmist felt like I did. Elijah gave up and couldn’t resist the threat in his life. I was in good company, and so are you, my friend. I realized I walked a horrific journey of pain due to scoliosis to share my experience with you.
These devotions aren’t filled with one victory after another, but rather a slow steady pace to living like the conqueror God has made each of us to be.
I felt like my life was a pile of ashes, but then embers began to rise above that pile. Something new began to spark in my life. God gives us beauty for ashes, and I want to help you find beautiful again.
Book: My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss . . . and Life
Author: Ladonna Shanks
Genre: Memoir
Release Date: June 23, 2026
Do you find yourself overcome while living in the darkness of loss? Do you wonder if it will ever end . . . or if you will even survive?
In My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss . . . and Life, Ladonna Shanks shares a message of hope while chronicling her persornal experience with grief. The essays, written in the midst of her grief journey, are bare, raw, open, and honest. Woven throughout these insightful anecdotes, however, is the fact that death is not the sole source of loss and ensuing grief, making this a relatable read for all. The book can minister to anyone who deals with grief and loss.
A light at the end of the tunnel exists. There is hope.
My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss . . . and Life by Ladonna Shanks is a memoir.
Grief can be such a lonely journey. When we lose someone or something important to us, it can be hard to imagine a time when the pain won’t feel quite so heavy. Sometimes, we need someone to remind us that what we’re feeling is okay, that we’re not alone, and that there is still hope even when life feels dark. That’s the message I took away from My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss . . . and Life by Ladonna Shanks.
What makes this book special is the honesty with which Ladonna shares her story. Written while she was walking through her own grief, her words feel raw, personal, and real. She doesn’t try to make grief sound neat or simple. Instead, she gives readers a glimpse into the difficult emotions that come with loss, making it easier to connect with her experiences and reflect on our own.
One thing I especially appreciate is that this book recognizes grief isn’t just about death. We can grieve relationships, changes in our lives, and the loss of things we once held dear. Those experiences may look different from person to person, but the hurt is still real. I think that’s an important reminder because grief doesn’t always look the way we expect, and sometimes we don’t even realize we’re grieving until we take the time to acknowledge what we’ve lost.
I also love that the heart of this book is hope. When you’re in the middle of grief, it can be difficult to believe that things will ever get better. The pain can feel endless, and even ordinary days can be a struggle. But healing doesn’t mean forgetting, and it doesn’t mean we have to stop missing the people or things we’ve lost. It means learning to carry that loss as we slowly find our way forward.
As someone who values faith, I find comfort in the reminder that we don’t have to face those difficult seasons alone. God doesn’t ask us to pretend we’re okay when we’re hurting. We can bring Him our sadness, our questions, and even the moments when we don’t have the words to pray. Psalm 34:18 tells us that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted. What a beautiful reminder that even when we feel surrounded by darkness, we are not beyond His comfort and care.
My Grief Shared is a small book with a message that may mean a great deal to someone who is struggling. Ladonna’s willingness to share her experiences offers readers an opportunity to feel understood and reminded that grief is a journey, not something we get over. If you’re dealing with loss yourself or know someone who is, this collection of essays may offer a little comfort and encouragement when it’s needed most.
My final thoughts: I appreciate the honesty and hope behind this book. Grief is never easy, and everyone’s journey looks different, but there’s something comforting about knowing we’re not the only ones trying to find our way through the darkness. Sometimes, we need that reminder that it’s okay to hurt, it’s okay to take our time, and it’s okay to hope for brighter days ahead.
Even when we can’t see the light just yet, that doesn’t mean it’s not there. There is hope, even in the midst of grief.
So if you enjoy memoirs, check out My Grief Shared: A Tiny Book of Essays on Death, Loss . . . and Life by Ladonna Shanks.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Octogenarian Ladonna Shanks has published two other books of personal essays: Tidbits and Pearls: A Book of Essays on Living Everyday Life with God, A Cascade Award finalist, and Sermons from a Soapbox. My Grief Shared was also a finalist in the Cascade Awards Contest. She strives in all she does to honor God and encourage others.
More from Ladonna
I did not plan on writing another book after publishing Sermons From a Soapbox. However, when my partner passed away three years ago, I began writing as a means of comfort and solace. I tossed my essays into a drawer and, after two and a half years, realized I had made it through the dark tunnel of grief back into the “land of the living.”
Death is not the sole source of grief and loss. My heart’s desire is to share with others that “You are not alone,” and “If God did it for me, He can do it for you.”
It’s a “tiny” book, only 10,000 words, but it is “mighty.”
To celebrate her tour, Ladonna is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card, a copy of my book, and a variety set of 6 handmade floral photo note cards, (including birthday, sympathy, and thank you)!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
In 1830s Cornwall, Grace Bayly faces unimaginable events that threaten the survival of her family. Her father and half of her large family are an ocean away and her mother and remaining siblings are poised to follow. As hardships close in, hopes of a new beginning grow distant. She must summon fortitude borne of love and sacrifice to hold her family together. Amid the unyielding grip of loss and grief, Grace steels herself to persist as she faces the ultimate challenge that threatens to break her.
Will Grace find the strength she needs to ensure her family survives?
A poignant tale of loyalty, resilience, and the enduring bonds that shape a woman’s courage when everything she cherishes is at stake.
If you enjoy Historical Fiction, you should check out The Ties That Bind by Jane Bayly Vaughan.
How do you find the strength to keep going when it feels like everything you love is slipping away? That’s the question at the heart of this story, and it’s what makes Grace Bayly’s journey sound so compelling to me.
Set in 1830s Cornwall, this story introduces us to Grace Bayly, whose world is upended by circumstances that threaten her family’s very survival. Her father and half of her large family are already an ocean away, while her mother and remaining siblings are preparing to follow. What should be the beginning of a new chapter instead becomes a time of uncertainty, hardship, and heartbreaking loss. With their future growing increasingly uncertain, Grace must find a way to hold her family together when everything seems to be working against them.
What strikes me most about Grace’s situation is the tremendous weight she carries. How do you stay strong for the people you love when you’re struggling with your own grief? How do you keep hoping for a better tomorrow when each new challenge makes that hope feel a little more distant? These are the kinds of struggles that make a character’s journey feel real, and I can imagine Grace’s determination and sacrifices making this an emotional read.
I especially appreciate stories that show courage in its many forms. Sometimes courage means standing up and fighting back, but other times it means getting out of bed, facing another difficult day, and continuing to care for the people who depend on you. Grace’s story seems to embody that quieter, often overlooked kind of strength. Her love for her family becomes the reason she keeps pushing forward, even as grief threatens to overwhelm her.
The fact that real people and events inspire this story makes it even more intriguing to me. There’s something powerful about reading a story rooted in real lives and remembering that the hardships, sacrifices, and difficult choices faced by these characters reflect experiences people actually lived through. It makes Grace’s struggle feel all the more meaningful.
I also love that this story explores the enduring bonds of family. Families don’t always have an easy road, and sometimes circumstances force people to make heartbreaking sacrifices. Yet love can give us a reason to keep going when we might otherwise feel like giving up. I’m curious to see how Grace navigates the losses she faces and whether she can find the strength to protect the people who mean so much to her.
If you enjoy historical fiction filled with heartfelt family relationships, emotional challenges, and a strong heroine fighting for the people she loves, this story deserves a place on your reading list. Grace Bayly’s journey sounds like a moving reminder that even in our darkest moments, love can give us the courage to face another day.
Sometimes the most powerful stories aren’t about having an easy path or a perfect ending. They’re about discovering just how much strength we have when the people we love are counting on us. And that is what makes Grace’s story one I would be interested in exploring.
So if you are looking for Historical Fiction, check out he Ties That Bind by Jane Bayly Vaughan.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All my opinions are my own.
About the Author
Jane’s love of God and family permeates her life, including her passion to share stories rooted in genealogy and history. She weaves the theme of family into the fabric of her historical fiction and dives deep, by writing about true events and people.
Using her 20+ years of experience in genealogy research as a family historian, Jane has written articles and short stories. She was awarded a travel grant by the Cornish American Heritage Society and visited Cornwall to walk in the footsteps of her ancestors and research her roots.
Jane has won several awards for her writing, and invites readers to experience timeless lessons of faith, resilience, and heritage that echo from the past into our lives today.
She makes her home in the beautiful lowcountry of South Carolina with her husband of 45+ years. They have two grown children, and lots of cats.
To learn more about Jane, visit her at JaneBaylyVaughan.com and sign up for her newsletter to receive an award-winning short story that will introduce you to the series A Story of Grace.
More from Jane
I have been a long-time family historian for over twenty years. When COVID hit, I was at a crossroads and could choose the next grand adventure. As I took stock, I revisited a question that had nagged me on and off for some time: how do I ensure the family history is not forgotten? Around that time, a friend of mine invited me to observe a writer’s group. I accepted her invitation, and after one meeting, I became a member of Word Weavers International. I knew that writing stories about my ancestors would generate interest among my relatives.
I faced a learning curve and dedicated myself to writing brief scenes as submissions each month. At first, I considered this venture as something fun, not to be taken seriously, but after several months, someone I respect encouraged me, and so I applied myself. As my writing improved and my research continued, I thought of my fourth great-grandmother from Cornwall. A story formed, and I wrote all my submissions to the writer’s group about her in a fictional narrative. After a year or two attending the writer’s group, I was suffering from imposter syndrome and needed encouragement from sources who were not familiar with me. I wrote a short story and entered it into a contest as validation to either continue writing or quit altogether.
I attended the Florida Christian Writers Conference in 2024 and sat white-knuckled as they announced the short story winners. They announced third place first, and I didn’t win, so I almost stopped listening because I assumed I hadn’t placed at all. They announced second place, and of course, someone else won. Then the announcer paused and explained that the first-place winning piece was so good they said it was ready for publication. The words, “In first place is ’Becoming Grace’ by Jane Vaughan,” shocked me! That was a God moment, and I realized He was offering me a partnership.
Driven by my love for family history, I found my next grand adventure: partnering with my Creator to create stories that help us remember the resilience and sacrifices of our ancestors and how their lives affect us today. Ultimately, my stories are about how important it is to love each other. The Ties That Bind is the first book in the series A Story of Grace.
Book: Off The Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure
Author: Susan Count
Genre: Children’s Fiction
Just because your cousin jumps from a train in the wilderness doesn’t mean you should too.
After planning a fun experience for a year, two Texas cousins make their first trip to Montana. When their train stalls, the boys leap from it into the white wilderness, beginning a perilous run for their lives.
As a blizzard hits, the boys spend a miserable night trying not to freeze. They struggle along the tracks to find shelter, but a disaster leaves them exposed to the elements and every famished wild creature.
Frustrated by their too-real situation, Davy and Anderson struggle to endure. Instead of vacationers at a wolf sanctuary, they become players in an unplanned survival experience.
If you are looking for Children’s Fiction, you should check out Off the Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure by Susan Count.
I have to admit, when I read that two cousins jumped off a stalled train into the snowy Montana wilderness, my first thought was, “What were they thinking?” Just because your cousin decides to do something crazy doesn’t mean you have to go along with it! But that’s exactly what Davy and Anderson do, and their decision turns what should have been a fun vacation into a fight for survival.
The two Texas cousins have spent an entire year planning their first trip to Montana. They’re looking forward to visiting a wolf sanctuary and enjoying an adventure together. But when their train stalls, things take an unexpected turn. Instead of staying put, the boys jump off the train and find themselves in the middle of a situation they never could have imagined.
As a blizzard moves in, Davy and Anderson struggle to stay warm and find shelter. Things go from bad to worse when another disaster leaves them exposed to the freezing temperatures and hungry wild animals. Their exciting vacation has turned into a nightmare, and now they have to figure out how to survive.
Honestly, I can’t imagine being stuck out in the wilderness during a blizzard, especially with hungry animals nearby! I would like to know how I could have gotten out of that situation, and I wish I had made some very different decisions. The boys certainly get more adventure than they bargained for!
What I find interesting about this story is how quickly things can go wrong when we act without thinking through the consequences. Most of us have made decisions in the moment that we later wish we could take back, even if they weren’t quite as dangerous as jumping off a train in the middle of nowhere. Davy and Anderson’s experience is a pretty dramatic reminder that sometimes it’s worth taking a moment to think before acting.
I enjoy stories that put characters in difficult situations and make them figure out how to handle things they never expected. With the harsh Montana wilderness, a blizzard, and hungry wildlife, Davy and Anderson certainly have their work cut out for them!
If you enjoy adventure stories with plenty of danger, unexpected challenges, and characters who find themselves way over their heads, this sounds like a fun read to check out. As for me, I’ll pass on jumping off a train in the wilderness. I’ll leave that kind of adventure to Davy and Anderson!
So if you are looking for Children’s Fiction, I definitely recommend checking out Off the Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure by Susan Count.
I received a a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Susan Count writes for the joy and entertainment of young readers. She is an Amazon best-selling, award-winning author of the Dream Horse Adventures Series, Dream Pony Riders Series, and Texas Boys Adventures.
She prefers to create stories in a quiet zone. Out her window, her mind wanders through the forest and keeps her in a grateful, contented state of being. Susan writes at a fabulous antique desk that has secret compartments filled with memories, mysteries, and story ideas. As a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and American Christian Fiction Writers, she takes studying the craft of writing seriously.
Susan confesses to being overly fond of brownies, and horseback riding on forest trails. She is a lifelong equestrian and is owned by a Rocky Mountain Horse.
Her newest release, Off The Rails – A Wilderness Survival Adventure was written for her four grandboys who wanted an adventure of their own. What’s a fairy grandmother to do but wave her magic pen and create.
More from Susan
Ten of my novels are horse books for girls. On the rare occasions that I do a book sales table, I’m inevitable asked if I’ve written any books for boys. So, I wrote this two book series (Texas Boys Adventures) because you asked and kept asking. You and my four grandsons. Finding wholesome books that will engage 8- to 12-year-old boys is a parental challenge.
I’m so old school. Let the kids keep their childhood for as long as possible. I believe in protecting their young hearts and minds. Give them adventures where they learn to build friendships and be the hero of their own stories. Capture their interest and then
encourage and strengthen them to grow into the arrows they are destined to be.
No pictures— have a couple ad images if you want them…
Book: The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John The Gospels
Author: Karen Westbrook Moderow
Genre: Bible Study
Release Date: May 29, 2026
What do you think about Jesus?
The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John explores the gaps between our view of Christ and who Bible says He is. A simple one-chapter-a-day format lets you engage with Scripture without the pressure of schedules, homework, or heavy reading loads. Short daily readings and thought-provoking questions connect your story to God’s Word. For personal, group, or homeschool Bible study.
After four hundred years of silence, when Israel has nearly given up hope of a messiah, God sends Jesus. The four Gospels introduce us to this long-awaited Savior but also chronicle the profound disappointment Jews feel when they realize He has not come to restore their nation. Jesus refuses to be boxed in by our limited view of Him. As Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John reveal a Savior who redefines power and love, we discover that our expectations are not too great but too small.
If you are looking for a Bible Study, check out The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John The Gospels by Karen Westbrook Moderow.
One thing I love about Bible studies is when they encourage me to slow down, look beyond the familiar stories, and really think about what God is showing me through His Word. The Bible Companion Book 10: Matthew–John focuses on something I think we can all struggle with at times: seeing Jesus for who He truly is rather than who we expect Him to be.
I appreciate the simple one-chapter-a-day format of this study. Life gets busy, and sometimes it can be difficult to find a Bible study that feels manageable without becoming another item on an already full to-do list. The short daily readings and thought-provoking questions offer an opportunity to spend time in Scripture, reflect on what I’m reading, and consider how it applies to my own life. I also like that the format works for personal study, group discussion, or homeschool use.
What really caught my attention, though, is the idea that our expectations of Jesus may actually be too small. That thought gives me something to reflect on. It’s easy to have our own ideas about how God should work in our lives, especially when we’re praying for something important or waiting for answers. We want to understand His plans, and sometimes we expect Him to work in ways that make sense to us. But God sees so much more than we do.
As we read through Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we see that Jesus wasn’t the Messiah many people expected. They wanted a Savior who would restore their nation, but Jesus came with a greater purpose. He challenged people’s understanding of power, demonstrated a love unlike anything they had known, and offered salvation that went far beyond their earthly expectations.
I find that reminder especially meaningful in my own walk of faith. How often do I focus on what I think God should do instead of being open to what He wants to teach me? It’s a good reminder that following Jesus means being willing to let go of my own assumptions and trust Him, even when His plans look different from what I imagined.
I also appreciate that this study isn’t just about learning more facts about the Gospels. The questions encourage readers to connect God’s Word with their own experiences and faith. For me, that’s an important part of Bible study. I want to do more than read a passage and move on with my day. I want to take time to consider what it reveals about God and how I can carry that truth with me.
The Bible Companion Book 10: Matthew–John offers a straightforward, approachable way to spend time in God’s Word while taking a closer look at Jesus and examining our own expectations of Him. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a manageable Bible study that encourages personal reflection and a deeper understanding of Christ.
My biggest takeaway from the study’s central message is that Jesus is so much greater than the expectations and limitations we place on Him. I know I need that reminder sometimes. Rather than trying to fit God into my plans, I want to keep learning to trust Him, seek Him through His Word, and remain open to what He wants me to see. After all, we may think we know what we need from Jesus, but He knows our hearts and sees the bigger picture in ways we never could
So if you are looking for a Bible Study, check out The Bible Companion Book 10 Matthew–John The Gospels by Karen Westbrook Moderow.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
KAREN WESTBROOK MODEROW is a Bible teacher and author who brings a storyteller’s perspective to Scripture. She holds master’s degrees in theology and creative writing and loves introducing others to Jesus through the stories told in God’s Word.
More from Karen
Bread is a big deal in the Gospels. After feeding thousands with just a few barley loaves and two fish Jesus says, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:35). The night of His arrest He takes a loaf of bread and says to His disciples, “Take and eat. This is my body” (Matt. 26:26). Bread. Jesus makes this simple food a symbol of Himself because it represents what we must have to live. I think about this often now that I’ve started baking my own bread.
Bread-making is the next logical step in my quest for a healthier lifestyle. Years ago, I cut out fast foods. Sodas. Processed foods (except for Fritos which I still enjoy with a sandwich on occasion J). But despite the many health gurus who say we should cut bread out of our diets my family has bread every day.
I’m from Texas. My grandparents had biscuits for breakfast, cornbread for dinner (noon meal) and yeast rolls for supper. If my grandmother didn’t have time to make rolls (which happened more often as she aged), she served Wonder Bread stacked high on a plate. In those days, we all bought the hype—“Wonder Bread builds strong bodies 12 ways!” We sometimes commented on the wonder of it all—no pun intended—that science had improved on a staple mankind has eaten for centuries. Only it didn’t. Our taste buds told us that the bread my grandmother made was infinitely better but other voices won out.
I make my own bread now to assure that what I take into my body is as clean as I can make it. I use flour without glyphosate and the best organic ingredients I can find. But do I succeed in making a bread that is free of all contaminants? No. There’s not a plot of ground or a man-made product on earth that is 100% pure. But every loaf of bread I bake is a revolution of sorts—a rejection of a system I don’t think has my best interest at heart. My efforts are imperfect but they’re a sign I see the problem and want to address it.
Spiritually, the path is similar. We’re hungry. We want and need to eat. We crave bread. But God’s Word warns us that what the world offers is not good. Whatever nutrition it offers can be saturated with things not easily seen—a distorted view of Christ, a subtle twisting of the truth, a self-focused gospel that appeals to our pride and greed. If we are spiritually discerning, we will recognize that these things can hurt us. But once we know it, what do we do? The danger is that our response is to “make our own bread” thinking that our improved spiritual resources and knowledge can create a life-giving loaf. But our best intentions and efforts to live like Jesus will always fall short. Just as we cannot eliminate all contamination from our food, we cannot eliminate sin’s influence in our lives. But wanting to be holy—to be like Jesus—is a step forward. It’s like me deciding that I don’t want to eat the bread found on the grocer’s shelf and choosing to do something about it. But that’s where the analogy ends. I can make better bread, but not perfect bread. I can make bread that satisfies my physical body for a time but not one that fills my deepest needs or gives me eternal life.
Sometimes when I make bread, I fail massively. The bread doesn’t rise. It’s too dense. Too doughy. Too dry. Other times, it is delicious, crusty, and fragrant. But every time I make it, I think of Jesus’s words, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever” (John 6:51). I use my bread-making time to think on the One who is Himself the bread of life. If that sounds good to you, try making one of my favorite recipes and enjoy both the bread and your time with the Lord.
1 Hour Yeast Rolls – 2 Dozen
To Begin:
Turn oven onto lowest temp (around 170 degrees)
Crack 1 egg in a bowl (to reach room temperature)
Set out a 9” x 13”plus an 8” x 8” pans. Grease or line with parchment paper
You can substitute a cookie sheet OR (2) 12-cup muffin pans.
In a stand mixer bowl:
Whisk together
3 ¾ to 4 cups BREAD FLOUR
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 pkg rapid rise/ yeast (4 ½ tsp)
1 tsp salt
In microwave-proof glass measuring cup:
Heat to 100–115 degrees (90 sec.)
1 ½ cups whole milk
2 TBS unsalted butter
Add (whisk) into warm milk mixture
1 egg (room temperature)
2 TBS olive oil
Place dough hook on mixer.
Slowly add warm milk mixture to dry ingredients on low speed.
(Confirm temp is still at 100–115 degrees)
Increase speed slightly and knead for 6-8 minutes.
Dough will be smooth and sticky.
If too sticky, add 1 tsp flour at a time and knead until dough holds together.
COVER tightly with plastic wrap and let rest for 5–10 minutes.
Turn dough out onto lightly floured surface.
Flour hands and using a scraper, divide the dough in two.
Shape one portion into a log and divide into 12 equal pieces.
Close the ends of each piece together at the top then turn it over and roll into a smooth ball on the counter.
Place pinched side down into the greased dish or muffin pans
Repeat with the second log.
Cover bread with a clean kitchen towel. You should have 24 rolls total.
TURN OFF THE OVEN you’ve preheated to 170 degrees and place bread in oven.
Let dough rise until double in size (approx. 20 minutes).
REMOVE ROLLS FROM OVEN
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Just before placing in oven a second time, brush tops of rolls with an egg wash (1 egg, lightly beaten with a splash of water).
BAKE 16–18 minutes.
Brush baked rolls with melted butter and sprinkle lightly with coarse salt.
A nurse with a wounded heart. A former lawman haunted by loss. An attraction neither can afford.
Rose Sinclair has built a careful new life in Stone Creek, hiding her painful past beneath a high lace collar. When private investigator Caleb Ellis arrives claiming he’s found a grandfather for two orphans she’s grown to love, she’s determined not to trust him—or let him take the children she’s come to cherish.
Caleb needs Rose’s cooperation to reunite the children with their family. But as questions begin to surface and shadows from Rose’s past reappear, it becomes clear someone is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the truth buried. Forced to travel west posing as husband and wife, Rose and Caleb must protect the children while outrunning a past determined to destroy them. As danger closes in, Caleb must confront the faith he abandoned, and Rose must decide if she can risk her heart again.
Because this time, trusting the wrong person won’t just break them—it could cost them everything.
Perfect for fans of Karen Witemeyer and Mary Connealy, this faith-filled historical romance features a forced-proximity journey, blending danger, redemption, and a road that leads two wounded hearts toward love.
If you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, you should check out Wounds and Rescues by Kathleen Rouser.
I’ve always had a soft spot for stories about people who have been hurt by life but aren’t quite ready to give up on love. There’s something about watching a wounded heart slowly begin to heal that gets to me, especially when faith plays a part in that journey. That’s what appeals to me about this story of Rose Sinclair and Caleb Ellis. They’re both carrying hurts from the past, and learning to trust again isn’t going to come easily for either one of them.
Rose has finally managed to build a new life for herself in Stone Creek, but she’s keeping her painful past tucked away behind a carefully guarded heart. When Caleb arrives with news that he’s found a grandfather for the two orphans Rose has grown to love, she isn’t exactly thrilled to see him. She’s afraid of losing the children who have become so precious to her, and I can understand why she’s reluctant to trust someone she barely knows. When you’ve already been hurt, it can be hard to believe that letting someone new into your life won’t lead to more heartache.
Caleb has his own share of pain and regrets. A former lawman haunted by loss, he’s determined to reunite the children with their family. Unfortunately, getting Rose to cooperate is only the beginning of their troubles. When danger starts closing in, and Rose’s past threatens to catch up with her, the two find themselves traveling west while pretending to be husband and wife. I love that kind of setup in a historical romance! Two people who are trying to keep their distance suddenly have to spend every day together, all while protecting two children and trying to stay one step ahead of danger.
But what I find especially appealing about this story is that it goes deeper than a developing romance. Both Rose and Caleb have things they need to work through before they can move forward, and I always appreciate seeing that kind of emotional growth in the books I read. I want to see characters who feel real, who struggle with their pasts, and who have to make difficult choices before they can find their happily-ever-after.
The faith element is particularly meaningful to me. Caleb has turned away from his faith, and I’m interested in seeing how he comes to terms with his loss and finds his way back to God. I think many of us can understand how difficult it is to keep trusting when life doesn’t turn out the way we hoped. Sometimes our disappointments leave us with questions we don’t know how to answer, and we may even struggle to understand where God is in the middle of it all. I love stories that remind me that even when we struggle, God is still there, patiently drawing us back to Him.
I’m also drawn to Rose’s love for the two children. The thought of her fighting to protect them, even when she has so much of her own pain to deal with, says a lot about her heart. I have a hard time resisting stories that bring together romance, children, and the idea of finding family in unexpected places. There’s something beautiful about people who have experienced loss discovering that they can still love deeply and have something wonderful to look forward to.
And honestly, I think the idea of learning to trust again is one of the most touching parts of a story like this. It’s one thing to want a fresh start, but it’s another thing entirely to let go of the fear that the past will repeat itself. Rose and Caleb must decide whether they’re willing to take that risk, even when they can’t be sure how things will turn out. I love the reminder that healing doesn’t happen overnight and that sometimes moving forward requires a little faith, a little courage, and a willingness to let God lead.
If you enjoy Christian historical romances filled with Western adventure, danger, a growing attraction, and characters who need a second chance at love, this sounds like a book worth picking up. Fans of Karen Witemeyer and Mary Connealy may especially enjoy the mix of romance, suspense, and faith.
For me, the biggest draw is the hope woven into this story. I love being reminded that a painful past doesn’t mean the best days are behind us. God can bring healing where there has been hurt, restore faith when it has been shaken, and lead us toward blessings we never saw coming. Sometimes the hardest step is simply being willing to trust Him with what comes next.
If you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, check out Wounds and Rescues by Kathleen Rouser.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Kathleen Rouser is a multi-published, award-winning author of historical and contemporary Christian romance. She is a longtime member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a member of Faith, Hope and Love Christian Writers. She resides in southeast Michigan, a location which she often uses in her novels, with her hero and husband of forty-some years and two sweet cats who found a home in their empty nest.
More from Kathleen
Joining an Orphan Home with Foster Care
Rose Sinclair makes a quick appearance in the third Stone Creek Brides novel, Scandals and Mercies as the head nurse at the local unwed mother’s home. With a tender heart and hurts of her own, she desires to help in a different way and moves to a nursing position at the town’s small orphanage. It is a loving sanctuary to around a dozen children and youth waiting for forever families.
During the era of orphan trains, the Child and Family Services of Michigan was established in 1891. They started “receiving homes” which cared for children with the goal of adoption. By 1906, the organization advocated for children to be placed in foster care when they couldn’t remain with their natural families. Thus began the trend toward foster care rather than orphanages.
The care received in the Anna and Jared Barrington Home for Children falls in between the two. In Rumors and Promises, the first Stone Creek Brides novel, readers see a glimpse into Gloria Myles’s life and how she became the guardian for her granddaughter, Elise. From this situation came her passion to care for orphans, as well as her desire to memorialize her daughter and son-in-law.
While most orphanages were often harmful institutions, I’d like to think that there were places like the Anna and Jared Barrington Home for Children, though I may have taken a bit of literary license.
I thought about what might happen if some of the children had the opportunity to be reunited with a faraway relative. How may that have taken place? Enter private investigator Caleb Ellis, who has lost several people he loved. He’s on a mission to bring together the scattered family.
In Wounds and Rescues, Rose becomes deeply attached to orphans Sam and Nellie Tubbs. The childhood trauma she experienced prompts her to become fiercely protective of them. From small-town Michigan of 1903 to the hills of Montana, she embarks on a journey of forgiveness, healing, and facing the past.
When Finley Burke moves to the peaceful lakeside village of Sunset Cove, she’s looking for a fresh start-not a mystery. But when a violent storm washes a strange tackle box onto her dock, she discovers more than fishing lures inside. Hidden within are antique jewels and secrets that link to a long-buried family feud and a suspicious death. As Finley digs deeper, she finds herself tangled in a web of
lies that threaten the calm of the cove- and her own safety.
With the help of her quirky but loyal neighbors, a sharp-eyed detective, Finley must uncover the truth before the past catches up to her.
Full of Southern charm, close-knit friendships, and suspense that keeps you turning the pages. Dockside Secrets is a heartwarming cozy mystery that proves it’s never too late to start over or to solve a mystery.
If you enjoy Christian Cozy Mysteries, I recommend checking out Dockside Secrets by Terry Overton
Sometimes a fresh start is exactly what we need, but life doesn’t always unfold the way we expect. For Finley Burke, moving to the peaceful lakeside village of Sunset Cove is supposed to be an opportunity to begin again. Instead, one violent storm brings a mysterious discovery that turns her quiet new life upside down!
In Dockside Secrets, Finley finds a strange tackle box washed up on her dock after the storm. What she discovers inside is far more than fishing lures. Hidden among them are antique jewels and clues connected to a long-buried family feud and a suspicious death. Suddenly, Finley finds herself caught up in a mystery filled with lies, unanswered questions, and secrets someone desperately wants to keep buried. The deeper she digs, the more dangerous things become.
Thankfully, Finley doesn’t have to navigate this mystery entirely on her own. With the help of her quirky but loyal neighbors and a sharp-eyed detective, she begins piecing together the truth. But will she uncover the answers before the past catches up with her?
One thing that appeals to me about this story is Finley’s desire for a fresh start. I think many of us can relate to wanting to leave certain things behind and move forward into a new season of life. Sometimes those new beginnings come with unexpected challenges, and we have to find the courage to face them one step at a time. From a Christian perspective, I find comfort in remembering that we don’t have to know what lies ahead to trust God with the journey. Even when our plans take an unexpected turn, He can guide us through the uncertainty and give us the wisdom and strength we need for whatever comes next.
I’m also intrigued by the themes of truth, honesty, and the consequences of keeping secrets. As Finley works to uncover what really happened, the story offers an opportunity to reflect on how the truth often comes to light, even when people try to bury it. Scripture reminds us in Luke 8:17 that what is hidden will eventually be brought to light. While uncovering the truth isn’t always easy or comfortable, honesty and integrity matter, especially when the choices we make affect other people.
The close-knit community of Sunset Cove also sounds like a wonderful part of this story. I enjoy reading about neighbors who stand by one another when life gets difficult. That kind of loyalty and friendship reflects something I deeply value in the Christian life: the importance of encouraging one another, offering a helping hand, and being willing to walk alongside someone through a challenging season. We aren’t meant to face every difficulty alone, and having people who care enough to show up can make all the difference.
Of course, the combination of Southern charm, antique jewels, family secrets, and a suspicious death promises plenty of mystery and suspense! I can easily see how Finley’s discovery could keep readers turning pages as they try to figure out how everything connects. Sunset Cove may look like a peaceful place, but it seems there is much more beneath the surface than anyone realizes.
Dockside Secrets sounds like an appealing choice for readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with intriguing clues, memorable community connections, and a suspenseful plot. I especially appreciate the themes of new beginnings, courage, friendship, and the importance of seeking the truth. These are reminders that resonate beyond the pages of a mystery.
Sometimes a fresh start doesn’t mean life suddenly becomes easy. Sometimes it means finding the courage to face what comes, choosing honesty when the truth is difficult, and trusting God to guide us through the unknown. Finley’s unexpected adventure in Sunset Cove looks like a reminder that even when life doesn’t go according to plan, there can still be hope, meaningful connections, and opportunities to begin again.
So if you enjoy Christian Cozy mysteries, check out Dockside Secrets by Terry Overton.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology.
Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean.
She has two children, seven grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.
Her previous writing and publication experiences include textbook and journal articles in the fields of special education and school psychology. She now seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals.
Over the years, Terry’s books have won the Mom’s Choice Award, Christian Indie Award, Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Winner Awards, Bookfest Winner Awards, Pencraft Award, Reader Views Silver Reviewers Award, and International Book Award Finalist. Her writing examines real world events with a Christian worldview. She enjoys writing for young children, middle grade readers, YA fiction, and adult level novels.
More from Terry
I must admit I have probably watched and read just about every Hallmark cozy mystery I have come across! I have become addicted to mysteries lately! I don’t limit it to just the cozy mysteries. Lately, I have been watching plenty of true crime. The attraction for me is the puzzle. I mean, really, who can resist a “whodunit?” I prefer more of the gumshoe approach, but I also watch several crime scene investigations.
It started out with a curiosity about why people do such actions. What motivates people to commit these crimes and then try to cover them up? In many cases, criminals just aren’t that bright. But there are some cases that remain puzzling.
I decided to give it a go. Dockside Secrets is my first cozy. It was fun to write this mystery in the little community outside of a big city. We moved to this new little cove on a lake, Sunset Cove, and this is where the characters live. The large city in the book, Sagebrush Bend, is in reality, Fort Worth, Texas. Plenty of changing landscapes here, and these appear in the story.
Grab this cozy and meet the quirky cast of characters: a retired forensic psychologist, a very proper southern lady, a nutty and loud best friend, and a middle-of-the-road peacekeeper join a fumbling local sheriff and a handsome detective to discover what really happened at Sunset Cove.
While all of London waits for snow, an orphanage in need holds holiday cheer, sparks of love, and secrets waiting to be discovered.
When Ebeneezer Scrooge’s former fiancée, Belle Beaumont, unexpectedly inherits a struggling London orphanage, she dreams of giving the children of Haven House the most splendid Christmas they’ve ever known. But her vision of snowflakes and merriment quickly collides with reality: Fire damage has rendered part of the building unsafe, and the paperwork is years behind.
Barrister Rafe Munro is fighting to clear an innocent man and searching for a child, who may be his relative. His pursuit leads him to Haven House, where Rafe offers to help Belle sort through the chaotic records that might lead to the missing child. Amid the mayhem of running an orphanage full of mischievous children and eccentric staff, will Belle and Rafe find love and the answers they seek this holiday season?
With characters from Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, this festive historical romance Christmas novella of family and second chances from Michelle Griep is set in Victorian England and perfect for fans of Julie Klassen and Mimi Matthews.
Belle’s Christmas Carol by Michelle Griep is an Inspirational Historical Romance.
There’s something special about a Christmas story that brings together a little romance, a touch of mystery, and the hope of a fresh start. Michelle Griep’s festive historical romance novella, set in Victorian England, offers all that and more, with a few familiar faces from Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol thrown into the mix.
Belle Beaumont, Ebenezer Scrooge’s former fiancée, finds herself unexpectedly inheriting a struggling London orphanage called Haven House. Determined to give the children a Christmas they’ll never forget, Belle dreams of snowflakes, merriment, and holiday magic. Unfortunately, the reality of running an orphanage is far less charming than she imagined. Fire damage has left part of the building unsafe, the records are hopelessly behind, and there’s no shortage of chaos from the mischievous children and eccentric staff.
Enter Rafe Munro, a barrister who has his own problems to solve. While working to clear an innocent man and searching for a child who may be related to him, Rafe finds himself at Haven House. When he offers to help Belle untangle the orphanage’s disorganized records, the two begin working together to uncover answers that could change their lives.
I love the idea of revisiting a familiar character like Belle and imagining what her life might look like after her relationship with Scrooge. Rather than leaving her defined by the past, this story allows her to build something meaningful and make a difference in the lives of children who desperately need love and security. Her determination to give them a memorable Christmas, even when circumstances seem set against her, adds a heartwarming element to the story.
The combination of an orphanage in need, a missing child, and a man seeking justice lends the romance more depth than a simple holiday love story. Belle and Rafe each have their own burdens and unanswered questions, and their growing connection offers the possibility of healing, belonging, and a second chance at happiness.
I also enjoyed the promise of the Victorian London setting, especially with Christmas approaching and everyone waiting for snow. There’s something wonderfully inviting about a historical Christmas tale filled with imperfect people, unexpected discoveries, and the hope that even difficult circumstances can lead to something beautiful.
Michelle Griep brings together romance, mystery, and holiday cheer in a story that explores the importance of family—not just the family we’re born into, but also the people we welcome into our lives. Sometimes, the greatest gifts aren’t wrapped beneath a Christmas tree; they’re found in the love we give, the lives we touch, and the courage to embrace a new beginning.
If you enjoy Christian historical romance, Christmas novellas, and stories about love, family, and second chances, this sounds like a delightful addition to your holiday reading list. Fans of Julie Klassen and Mimi Matthews may especially enjoy the Victorian setting and romantic atmosphere.
A struggling orphanage, a determined heroine, a barrister with a mystery to solve, and the possibility of love make Haven House a promising place to spend a little time this Christmas season!
So if you enjoy inspirational historical romances, check out Belle’s Christmas Carol by Michelle Griep.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Michelle Griep is an award-winning author known for her captivating historical romances. With a keen eye for detail, she pens tales that transport readers to the past where they’ll experience romance, adventure, and unforgettable characters. When she’s not writing, you can find her in her garden scaring away armadillos.
More from Michelle
Why I Gave Scrooge’s Belle Her Own Christmas Carol
Guest post by Michelle Griep
I’ve always been suspicious of characters who appear just long enough to break your heart and then vanish without so much as a forwarding address. Belle from A Christmas Carol is one of those.
Scrooge, of course, gets the full treatment. Ghosts. Doom. Moral terror. A dramatic overnight transformation. Turkey delivery. The works. And yes, yes, it’s all very moving. But Belle? Come on. All she gets is one aching goodbye and then is shoved neatly into Scrooge’s past. So, excuse me, Mr. Dickens, but I have questions.
What became of the woman who loved Ebenezer before greed got to him? Did she regret walking away? Did Christmas ever sting? Did she build a fine, sensible life or did some little corner of her heart still ache for him or not? That wondering became Belle’s Christmas Carol.
In my story, Belle Beaumont unexpectedly inherits Haven House, a struggling London orphanage with fire damage, muddled ledgers, eccentric staff, and children who are more than rambunctious. Naturally, Belle decides she will set everything to rights and give the children the most splendid Christmas imaginable because—like me—apparently the woman has never heard of pacing herself.
Then along comes Rafe Munro, a handsome barrister searching for a missing child, and Belle’s tidy plans start to change. Oh, did I mention he’s single? That’s because I wanted Belle to be more than Scrooge’s lost love. I wanted her to have grit, flaws, hope, purpose, and a future all her own.
Because sometimes the story doesn’t end with goodbye. Sometimes that’s where the real story begins.
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