Last Light Over Galveston by Jennifer L. Wright // Review

My Review: 

A riveting novel that goes between the present and past of Kathleen McDaniel's timeline, showing how her choices lead here to where she is in the present, and formed her into who she is becoming. 

The book also explores the early days of weather prediction in the eye of the Galveston hurricane, while Kathleen is challenged to see beyond the privileged life she was raised in. I liked that Kathleen is a complex character, the decisions she has made change her whole life, and she knows that the person she has become can't go back. Much of the story takes part in the few days during and leading up the devastating hurricane, while the chapters set in the past are a few months before. I like how they keeping you trying to figure out Kathleen's secrets and how it plays into the present. Maggie is an energetic and lively girl, who has taken a shine to Kathleen. Matthew is a dependable and likable character, he has a sharp mind and a passion for learning. 

Overall, this is a well-researched read, it has a lot going on. The author does an incredible job of showing the terror and scale of the natural disaster. A story of hope, friendship, finding yourself, and faith in the face of the Galveston Hurricane.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 

The Fault Between Us by Stephanie Landsem // Review

My Review: 

Strained family ties against the backdrop of the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake in Yellowstone, Montana. 

Struggling to make ends meet, the last thing young wife and mother Claire Wilder needs is her sisters visiting in an attempt to bring her home. Though they used to be close, she prickles under Bridget's judgmental eye, and Frannie is a rebellious teenager. Her husband Red isn't what her family expected, a cowboy who has made his own way in the world by the sweat of his brow. The story follows the three sisters, and Red, through family conflict all culminating in the face of the Lake Hebgen earthquake. 

A compelling read, I liked that is gives us a chance to know and come to understand each of the characters, seeing them challenged to see the other in a different light, with faith and plenty of grace. The story starts out a little slower, as we come to understand the sisters and the tension between them, but it quickly picks up pace. I liked how the sisters are challenged to grow in uncomfortable ways, untangling a difficult childhood and how it affected them as young women.

Overall, a moving read, compelling and at times explosive. I was surprised that I had never heard of the Hebgen Lake earthquake before, and I enjoyed learning about it. A well-spun story of faith, sisterhood, and family relationships. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Women of Oakridge by Michelle Shocklee // Review

My Review: 

A compelling novel of the secrets that hold us captive, set in Oakridge, a secret city during WWII working on the Manhattan Project. 

Told in two timelines, following Maebelle Willett in 1944, and Mae's niece Laurel in 1979, who is doing research for a college project about Oakridge and the secret cities during the war. Mae is excited to be striking out on her own, working to support the war effort in a secretive project, but when her roommate disappears, what she finds changes the course of her life forever. Laurel doesn't understand why her aunt won't talk about her time working at the plant in Oakridge, but as she listens to the stories of the locals, disturbing questions begin to appear that have ties to her aunt. 

An engrossing, well-researched historical novel, it was so fascinating to learn about secret city full of young men and women working toward a common goal that they didn't even understand, something I'm not sure that we could pull of today on so large a scale. I liked that Laurel was sensitive and respectful of her aunt's wishes, and it was interesting to see the aftermath through the lens of looking back. My heart went out to Mae for how the secrets affected her whole life, but I admired her courage, and it was easy to see that in such a project the lines of the law were not clear cut. 

An intriguing and at times suspenseful read, gripping in the best way. Very well researched, with strong female protagonists. It was very hard to put down, exploring how secrets can keep us captive and truth can set us free. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

He Calls Me Daughter //Momentum Giveaway

A Heavenly Father changes everything.

 HE CALLS ME DAUGHTER is for women who have felt unseen, unsupported, or unsure of their worth. Through intimate, first-person stories, viewers follow women as they begin to name the pain they’ve carried for years: father wound. Audiences are invited to reflect on their own story as they walk alongside these women on a journey toward healing. HE CALLS ME DAUGHTER is an invitation to experience the love of a Father who does not withdraw—One who offers peace, be longing, and restoration. 

 Buy tickets today to see He Calls Me Daughter in theaters only 3/17-3/18! 

https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/he-calls-me-daughter/

My Review: 

A moving film about the importance of a father in a girl's life. We follow a group of women through a series of intimate interviews, as they tell of their earthly fathers, and the wounds they carry in their hearts as a result. But that's not the end of the story. 

Powerful and uplifting stories of redemption and the love of a Heavenly Father that changes everything, it was amazing to see similar themes, with some of the stories connecting. A beautiful testament to the power of God, but also a tender and important reminder about how we are precious and dear to God our Father. 

Featuring women of all backgrounds and different walks of life, giving their testimony to loving God who is a Father to the fatherless. A powerful movie for any woman, if you have a good relationship with your father or not. A well done, touching and inspiring film that proclaims the power of a loving God. Highly recommend seeing it!

 #HeCallsMeDaughterMIN #HeCallsMeDaughter #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

 Many thanks to He Calls Me Daughter for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

 Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard (Note: This is limited to US winners only).

  He Calls Me Daughter Film- $10 Amazon Giftcard

Raging Waters by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: Raging Waters

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: March 3, 2026

As the dam crumbles and water sweeps across the terrain, their battle for justice and survival is just beginning.

When Mackenzie Bardine’s brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she started a true crime podcast dedicated to exposing “Bullseye,” the drug kingpin responsible. But her protective heart has never let go of the blame she places on herself and Aaron’s best friend, Gideon Landry. On the run to the wilds of Washington to chase a recent lead, she meets none other than Gideon himself.

While conducting a wilderness survival class in remote Washington, Gideon never expected to cross paths with Mackenzie, and he’s certainly not interested in helping her after he’s already declined to participate in her vigilante podcasting. He carries a mountain of guilt about Aaron’s fatal choices, but not for the reasons Mackenzie suspects.

As killers begin to circle Mackenzie like sharks, it’s clear to Gideon she’s in over her head, and in light of his troubled past with her brother, he can’t bring himself to ignore her perilous situation. Then a flood threatens the town, turning their investigation into a race to escape the raging waters and the wrath of a powerful kingpin who wants to sink them both.

A gripping, clean romantic suspense featuring enemies-to-lovers, second-chance romance, and high-stakes investigations set in small-town Washington, sweeping readers away on a turbulent wave of thrills and chills. Perfect for fans of forced proximity, wilderness survival, protective heroes, and justice-driven heroines.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Lucie's Review: 

Mackenzie and Gideon are an unlikely pair, thrown together when the kingpin that got her brother killed comes after her when he goes poking around. 

Mackenzie comes to Washington state following a lead, when she crosses paths with Gideon, her brother's best friend whom she holds partially responsible for his death. Mackenzie is impulsive  and willing to take big risks to get answers, Gideon is a good guy and doesn't want to let her go against them alone. They must battle not only the dark forces of the drug kingpin, but the elements. 

A fast paced adventure, full of suspense. I liked Gideon right away, he is a Christian and steps up to help Mackenzie, even when she makes it difficult. A tension filled read, with a lot going on, and good reader payoff. Mackenzie was hard to like in the beginning with her headstrong recklessness. There is good character growth and interaction throughout. A high stakes read, with a core of faith. Definitely recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

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

 

 

More from Dana

I’m afraid of deep water. There. I’ve said it. I live in California, famous for beaches sand and surf. If that’s not enough, there are swimming pools aplenty. I should be enjoying the surfing, boating, kayaking, sailing culture, but I’d much rather sit on a deck somewhere and watch others partake. So what’s a gal like me doing writing an adventure that takes place as a dam rupture overwhelms a town? I love to write that type of wilderness story, where stakes are high and the help is scarce. Similar to the previous book, Fire Mountain, the characters will have to dig deep of their strength and faith to survive. And you and I can enjoy it from the safety of our decks! Are you ready? Grab your book and your cuppa and let’s go!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 3

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 3

The Avid Reader, March 3

The Sacred Line, March 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 4

She Lives To Read, March 5

Texas Book-aholic, March 5

Leslie’s Library Escape, March 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 6

Lily’s Corner, March 7

Pause for Tales, March 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 7

Devoted To Hope, March 8

For Him and My Family, March 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 9

Melissa’s Bookshelf, March 9

EmpowerMoms, March 10

Blogging With Carol, March 10

Just Your Average reviews, March 10

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 11

Simple Harvest Reads, March 11 (Guest Review from Donna)

Lyssa Loves Books, March 12

Blossoms and Blessings, March 12

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, March 12

Cover Lover Book Review, March 13

Labor Not in Vain, March 13

Betti Mace, March 14

Bigreadersite, March 14

Life on Chickadee Lane, March 15

Lights in a Dark World, March 15

Holly’s Book Corner, March 15

Stories By Gina, March 16 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $100 Amazon Gift Card and a signed copy of the book!!

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

https://gleam.io/OQ5p4/raging-waters-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Vanishing at Castle Moreau by Jaime Jo Wright // Review

My Review: 

Two women more than a century apart take jobs at the foreboding Castle Moreau.

In 1865 Daisy takes a job working for an eccentric gothic authoress at the castle. Her job is strange, as are the inhabitants of the castle. Whispers around town arouse her suspicions, as they seem to align with the strange goings on at the castle.

In the present day Cleo answers a job posting to help an aging women declutter, and within the castle walls she makes a discovery that stirs up a history of secrets and mystery. 

An intriguing and engaging split timeline story, that keeps you guessing as the clues come to light years apart. I was well invested into both timelines, as Daisy and Cleo navigate the strange happenings and rules of the castle. A gothic feeling read, with chilling tension and brooding heroes. There are plenty of twists and big reveals, I liked the unexpected directions this story went and explored. Definitely keeps you guessing!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Seaside Homecoming by Julie Klassen // Review

My Review: 

After the death of her stern great-aunt, Claire Summer returns to Sidmouth, answering a notice for a respectable female business partner. Claire finds herself working with the mysterious Mr. Hammond at his inn, while working to reconnect with her sisters. 

I like that Claire owns up to her mistakes, but doesn't let her past hold her down. She is kind and compassionate, but also isn't afraid to stand up for herself and others. Claire is a clever and likable heroine, I was sad for her and all the years she missed with her sisters, but I was glad to see them reunited. 

A heartwarming read, that reminded me of Little Women, but as a British period drama. I loved the full cast of characters, with engaging and entwining plotlines. Good themes of family, faith, forgiveness and second chances. Another wonderful addition to this lovely series. Definitely recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Targeted in the Swamp by Kerry Johnson // Review

Lucie's Review: 

When Laurel Bell is attacked her first day of her new job, she knows that her witness protection cover is blown. 

A fast paced read, as Laurel and Heath try to stay ahead of the killer who is on her trail. I liked that Heath steps up to help Laurel, going above and beyond to keep her safe. I like that they work together well, and the challenges they face bond them, as they get to know and respect each other.

A riveting read, with a suspenseful storyline, themes of faith, and plenty of action. Great pacing and good interaction, I liked that there was a lot going on, and a strong character arc, with themes of persevering in the faith even when times are hard. Quick read, that kept me on my toes! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Last to Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn // Review

Lucie's Review: 

 A dual timeline suspense, full of intrigue as they untangle a web of blackmail and conspiracy. 

Bronwyn has poured her life into running her family's mountain resort, but a trail of financial discrepancies has her turning to the last person on her list, Mo Quinn. Mo is a forensic accountant, skilled at his craft, working together can Bronwyn and Mo find the truth behind the strange occurrences and missing money.  

A fast paced read, with plenty of secrets and intrigue, I liked how creative the author was with the dialogue in the first part of the book. Great characters, and strong family ties, I liked that this book included many past couples from the previous books. Great gripping read that had me engaged from the start. Bronwyn and Mo make a great team. I liked the strong themes of faith, and family.  

Overall, a wonderful conclusion to the Gossamer Falls Series, with a lot going on, great characters, and fantastic dualtime line storytelling!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Texas Easter Blessing by Mindy Obenhaus // JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Texas Easter Blessing by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Texas Easter Blessing 

Series: Legacy Ranch #3 

Author: Mindy Obenhaus 

Publisher: Love Inspired Books 

Release Date: February 24, 2026 

Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Christian Romance 

A new ranch home 

could lead to a new family. 

After his marriage fails, single father Ryder Sinclair returns to his hometown with his young son to care for his ailing mother. He’s surprised to run into his teenage crush, Kendall Hunt, whose career as a professional chef has been shaken by scandal. As the two work together to save an Easter event usually hosted by Ryder’s mother, Kendall finds herself longing for this sense of family with Ryder and little Shepard. But when she has a chance to go back to the life she once knew, will she choose the dream she’s spent years chasing…or the new dream that has taken hold of her heart? 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | BookBub | Bookshop

Lucie's Review: 

A compelling story of faith, family, and new beginnings. 

Contractor and single father Ryder Sinclair and his young son, Shepard, comes back to his hometown to care for his mother, who has cancer. An unexpected reunion with a high school acquaintance Kendall, is a blessing to the Sinclair family, and perhaps the start of something new. 

A heartwarming small town western romance, full of heart, faith, and community. I liked how Kendell and Ryder work together to help the community and his family. Little Shepard is so cute, and I liked that Ryder steps up to care for his parents. 

Overall, a compelling small town romance, with heartwarming themes, and a core of faith. A full cast of likable characters, in a wonderful community. Great quick, feel-good read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

More Books from this Series:

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About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching heartwarming romance movies.

Connect with Mindy by visiting www.MindyObenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of A Texas Easter Blessing and $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 4, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 11, 2026. Winner 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 the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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