On Living Stone by Heather Kaufman // Review

My Review: 

A highly compelling novel of Salome, the mother of James and John, as she watches the trajectory of their lives and her own change as they follow Jesus, whatever the cost.

Ms. Kaufman has outdone herself with this masterpiece; she makes her characters so compelling and raw, relatable in their humanity. Salome grew up in a difficult home with a grieving father; she struggles to fit in and comparing herself to the achievements of others. As she marries and becomes a mother to 2 sons, she still carries similar worries along with those of her son's futures. I liked seeing James and John as they might have been through the eyes of their mother, as well as Jesus and his earthly ministry. 

 Beautifully written, the author does an excellent job of establishing the context of the culture, I felt like I learned so much along the way. I liked how the story made me understand the fears and false hopes of the past, and how His disciples had counted the cost and stepped out in faith to follow Him. I think one of my favorite parts was seeing how so many people's lives were visibly changed by meeting Jesus, from those with a single encounter to his disciples, Salome and her family as well. 

 A powerful story of hope, forgiveness, and faith. Each of the stories in this series have touched my heart and inspired me, but this one has topped them all, and I don't know how Ms. Kaufman keeps doing it! A wonderful addition to the series, that stands strong on its own as well. A standout novel, and one of my favorite reads this year. Highly recommend!

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

Murder, Plainly Written by Mindy Steele // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Sadie Lynch is excited to start fresh after inheriting her Amish aunt's candle store in Amish country. But business is slow and the locals are not keen to frequent the shop of an Englisher. 

A little bit of a slower start as Sadie gets settled in her new home, and we meet many community members. I liked that there were a variety of people from different plain communities, and it was fun to meet the many different characters as Sadie learns more about her heritage, and finds new friends. I liked her friendship with Wanda and how they bond over writing. Wanda is a lovely woman, and I admired her for being honest about her disappointments, but not letting them hold her down.

A fun read that sets up the series well for future books, with a full cast of characters and secrets are revealed as Sadie gets to know her new community. I liked her growing friendship with August. 

Overall, an enjoyable read that builds as the story goes along. I liked that Sadie connected with people even though they lived their lives differently and bonded over their faith. A very enjoyable read with great characters and lovely community. I'm excited to read more in the series!

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

Candy Apple Kisses by Amy Clipston // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming, friends to lovers romance, set in the picturesque setting of Splendid Lake.

 Jake Hughes asks his best friend Emily to come back to Splendid Lake to help him revive his family's apple orchard in the face of a daunting new competitor. Together they make a plan to save the orchard, and they wonder if love could be in the cards. 

 A quick read, and heartwarming, clean romance, with protagonists that you can cheer from the very beginning. It was a fun read, with a Hallmark movie like plot and setting. I felt there were some parts that felt overblown and unrealistic, but I liked how Jake stood up for Emily and encouraged her to pursue her art.

 Overall, it was an enjoyable read with meant to be together childhood friends finding love together.

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

Seeking the Truth by Terri Reed // Review

Lucie's Review: 

When reporter Rachelle Clark starts digging into the K-9 Command Officer's death, his brother, single-father Carter Jameson isn't happy, but he steps up to help her after her investigation makes her a target. 

A fast-paced suspense, set on the streets of New York City. There's a lot going on, keeping Rachelle and Carter on their toes. Carter's daughter is so cute, and I loved how supportive and encouraging his family is. Plenty of twists and turns, with strong themes of faith and family. 

A great addition to the series, with great characters and great relationship building interaction. Frosty was clever and caring dog. I'm excited to read more in the series. 

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

The Spy Keeper of Marseille by Roseanna M. White // Review

My Review: 

A daring mother and talented musician fight for freedom from the Nazi regime in occupied France, in this gripping story of love and sacrifice. 

Zelie Bellrose is a young widow who is willing to fight for a future for her two children, suddenly finding herself the unlikely leader of an intelligence agency. Every chance they take could possibly put all that she holds dear at risk. I admired her courage, as well as her cool-headed common sense, humility, and fierce devotion to her children. She knows the cost, and doesn't let it defeat her, but push her forward instead. 

Marcel Laurent recently freed from a POW camp, takes a job with a travelling orchestra that comes with special privileges that he can use to help the fight for a free France. Marcel is a kind and discerning man, a quiet leader, who proves his mettle again and again. I loved how he showed his strength in trusting and being willing to follow, while being a source of support, and encouraging others to hope. 

A compelling story of ordinary people, willing to risk everything for their families and country, doing extraordinary things. I was inspired by the faith of Zelie and Marcel, trusting God when hope is hard to hold onto. A gripping story from beginning to end, emotional and full of adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Another stand out novel from Roseanna M. White. Highly recommend!

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

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christian Book | Roseanna's Store

Protecting the Baby by Jodie Bailey // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Veterinarian Carly Mayor has recently become the guardian of young Ariel, but there are people with nefarious intentions towards the little girl, so she asks Eli Blackwood a rancher and K-9 officer to help her. 

Fast paced red, filled with mystery and suspense. I liked that Carly and Eli knew each other previously from church, and that they work together well as a team. There is a lot going on, and I liked that they bonded over their faith and little Ariel. I liked how Eli jumped in to help, offering support and a place to stay. He is determined not to fall in love, but God might just have other plans. 

Full of twists and turns, the story kept me on my toes. Ariel is a sweet little girl, and I admired Carly's devotion to keeping her safe. Great characters, good interactions, and strong faith.

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

Guarded by the Sheriff by Monique DeVere // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Sienna witnesses a crime, which make her and her young son the target of a dangerous gunman, with nowhere to go she runs to the only person she can think of, her ex-fiancé Sheriff Ethan Callahan.

Ethan is surprised to see Sienna again, with a young boy in tow who in the spitting image of himself at that age. He immediately steps up to help protect Sienna and Nathan. I really liked how welcoming Ethan's family was to Nathan and Sienna, and how they are instantly supportive. 

I admired how Sienna has held onto to her faith through everything, and passed what she knows onto her son. She is strong and willing to speak up when things just don't add up. 

An action packed read, with tender relationship building and great interaction. Engaging and enjoyable read. Highly recommend! 

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

The Ladies Hall by Vanessa Miller // Review

My Review: 

A moving novel based on the true stories of Anna Cooper, Mary Church and Ida Gibbs three women of color who attended Oberlin College in 1884, breaking down barriers and fighting for a fair education. 

 The novel primarily follows Mary and Anna, two women from very different backgrounds, both determined to make a difference and receive a respected college education. The novel follows not just the challenges faced at the college, but also in their personal lives. I was initially drawn to the story knowing very little about the background of the story but found the premise interesting, and my grandmother attended Oberlin College in the 1950s. 

 Well written novel based on real events and people, my heart went out to Anna for her courage in pursuing college and a life away from where she grew up. Not letting the past stand in the way of a bright future. Mary had her own struggles too, away from where her family name carried more weight, I admired how she didn't give up and kept reaching for her goals. 

 Overall, an inspiring read, that brought to life the challenges faced by Ida, Anna, and Mary during their time at Oberlin College. I especially enjoyed the ending, learning more about their lives after college, and later returning for advanced degrees as well. Moving and inspiring historical read. 

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

Explosive Alliance by Susan Sleeman // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Krista Curry is attending a soccer game with her grandfather, and the last thing she expects to stumble upon is a bomb. Explosives expert Cash Dixon comes to the rescue, but there are still a lot of questions. Krista has secrets of her own, but her dodging of questions is making her look more and more suspicious. Can they find the true bomber before time runs out? 

An action packed read, with a compelling plot and plenty of tension. I liked Krista's close relationship with her grandfather, and how he talks openly about his faith. I liked how they worked together well, and that they bonded over their faith. 

Overall, an action packed read, full of suspense. There's a lot going on, and I liked how it kept you guessing. There are strong themes of faith, and forgiveness, and I liked how Krista stayed calm in a crazy situation. A highly engaging and enjoyable read, definitely recommend!

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

Ambushed in Yosemite by Kellie VanHorn // Review

Lucie's Review: 

 Park employee Skylar Jansen stumbles upon a man burying a body in the middle of the Yosemite wilderness and finds herself in a killer's crosshairs. 

A fast paced read, with a lot going on with ties to secrets from the past, as Skylar and Special Agent Bode Tucker try to stay ahead of the killer. I liked that they bonded over their shared faith. Bode is a devoted single dad, with a young daughter, and I liked that he has a supportive family around him. 

A gripping read, with likable characters, and good plot. There is good interaction and dialogue throughout in this action-packed cold case suspense. 

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

A Killer on Campus by Rhonda Starnes // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Forensic photographer Jane Mason finds herself in a killer's crosshairs when she starts digging into her aunt's homicide case. 

Now a teacher at the very college where her aunt was murdered, she spends her spare time trying to figure out what happened to her aunt. But when she is attacked on campus she knows that she is onto something. Her estranged childhood friend Ridge Snyder jumps in offering help and support. 

Full of tension, this book has a lot going on, and twists that kept me guessing. I liked that Ridge and Jane worked on repairing their relationship and coming to terms with what happened in the past. 

There is a lot going on, with great tension and a plot that kept me on my toes. Great characters and relationship building. Highly recommend!

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

Autumn at the Cat Cafe by Kathleen Fuller // Review

My Review:

A cozy autumn read, with a small town meets big city romance. 

 Via Dalton owns a growing cat cafe and has dreams of expanding. But when her neighbor suddenly dies without leaving his wishes in writing, she and the town are surprised to find that he has a nephew, Leo , a big city hedge fund manager who has plans to sell and go back to L.A., but Earl's will has couple unique stipulations that have him sticking around and wondering if there is more to Pecan Corner than her thought. 

 A cute opposites attract romance, clean, but the characters do seem to dwell on the other's physical characteristics quite a bit mentally, which I personally didn't need to read about. I liked that Via has a close knit family, friends, and community, she has a big heart for others. Sir Meow is quite the character, and humorously takes a liking to Leo. It was also fun getting to see glimpses of who Earl was posthumously through his home, shop, and will, and imagine the life he lived. 

 Charming and sweet romance, with a Hallmark movie like setting and plot. Perfect for a light and cozy read. Enjoyable, humorous, sweet and quick read. 

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

The Bookshop of 99 Doors by Jaime Jo Wright // Review

My Review: 
A haunting dual-timeline novel of two women in different time periods uncovering the secrets of an elaborate mansion haunted by the memory of a terrible wrong. 

 Tris is excited to start a new job and leave her past behind but is dismayed to find that it has followed her. I admired her for walking away from all she'd ever known for her newfound faith, and acting on her convictions. She finds herself working alongside her old ghost hunting team, Beck and her brother, Casper, to uncover what is really going on at the mansion rumored to be haunted by Civil War ghosts, and an elusive 100th door. Full of gothic vibes, I appreciated the strong faith, and the honesty with which Tris wrestled between loyalty and hope for freedom from the past. 

 Minnie Tipton comes to mansion after her father uproots them, selling everything to move there. But upon moving there, her father is beset by illness and rages, and the housekeeper seems to be harboring secrets, treating her coldly and usurping her place as lady of the house. She meets the mysterious Dexter, a quaker man, with suspicions about the house. Minnie tries to find answers about the house's terrible past, while seeing strange things and not knowing who to trust. The housekeeper was chillingly creepy, hot and cold, and impossible to predict. I liked Minnie, that she stepped out of her comfort zone, daring to hope for more than the role she had silently committed herself to. 

 A gripping and ghostly read, set in a haunted mansion turned bookshop. It definitely kept me on my toes, with complex characters, and unknown loyalties that had me guessing. The dual timelines entwined well, and I liked how it talked about not dabbling in darkness. Masterfully written with a resounding message of faith. Highly recommend!

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

The Belle of Chatham by Laura Frantz // Review

My Review: 

Maebel Bohannon's family is divided by their loyalties in the struggle for early America. 

Mae finds herself especially at odds with her sister Coralie, who is a devoted Loyalist, with a British officer as a beau. I admired Mae in her forbearance of her sister's selfish ways, and refusal to settle into complaining alongside her, while making the best of each situation. 

I loved the longing between Rhys and Mae as they fight for a future despite the uncertain future. General Rhys Harlow is devoted to the American cause and is a good friend to Mae's brother. I liked their connection and bond of faith. 

A captivating read that swept me into the struggles of a young America, as loyalties are divided and families torn apart. Full of heartache, betrayal and longing, this historically rich novel will have you hanging onto every word. Hopeful, romantic and gritty, with a love story you won't soon forget. 

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

Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming and emotional read about life lessons, forgiveness, and what really matters. 

Eric Larson has big plans to turn the small-town Montana financial office into a success so that his Uncle Jack will promote him to a big city office. He forms an unlikely friendship with his next-door neighbor, Eunice, begrudgingly helping her complete her bucket list of making it right with people before she dies.

I liked how Eric and Eunice hep each other, and how Eric slowly changes his mind about the small town that his Uncle Jack loved so much. A compelling novel, with a wonderful community of people who are patient with Eric, getting to know him and earning a place in his heart as well. I liked Eunice, she is headstrong and stubborn, with a wry humor. 

A compelling novel, about friendship and the people you meet in unlikely places. I liked how human this book felt, nobody was perfect, but they all felt real. Emotional with a powerful message of friendship and forgiveness. Highly recommend!

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

The Ordinary Church by John MacArthur // Review

My Review: 

In this book the late John MacArthur shows through Scripture the definition of an ordinary and godly church body.

Concise and to the point, this book is a compelling and encouraging read that while mourns that many churches are not as close the Biblical model as would be hoped for, encourages readers to be the ones that stand firm and guide their churches with Biblical principles. I found it a very easy to read, and accessible read, straightforward yet not to formal, and cutting straight to the point. 

I liked that it had a balanced tone, that was encouraging, calling for wisdom in dealing with difficult problems and turning to Scriptures. He calls us to be faithful church members who take an active role in our church, serving, praying and committing. 

A great read, and wonderful reminder of the Biblical church model. Definitely recommend!

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

David's Diary: The Science Fair Sabotage by Bunmi Laditan, illustrated by Elisa Rocchi // Review

My Review: 

A fun-filled follow up to David's summer camp shenanigans, David and his friend Nate are back in school and competing in their school's science fair. 

But a threat to their school's entry in the science fair has them joining forces with an unlikely ally and learning about the fruits of the spirit. Humorous and fast paced, I like that David has good intentions to help others, even if things don't always go as planned. A fun upbeat read, with comic style illustrations that fit the story well. It is a great Christian alternative to similar middle grade reads that are snarky and do not encourage good character. 

Humorous and well written. David is suspicious of others and learns to give them a chance. I liked how he and Nate worked with Abby, and got to know her better over the course of their adventure. 

Overall, fun-filled read, with plenty of humor and lessons about making friends and the fruit of the spirit. Definitely a fun one!

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

Montana Rose by Mary Connealy // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Montana Rose

Author: Mary Connealy

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: June 23, 2026

From bestselling author Mary Connealy comes a poignant Western romance about second chances, redemption, and the healing power of faith—a moving tale of a heartbroken young widow, a compassionate rancher, and the love that helps them both find their way home.

When Cassie Griffin’s abusive husband dies, leaving her pregnant and destitute, she’s forced to marry a stranger to survive. Red Dawson, a hardworking rancher and part-time preacher, steps forward to save her from a worse fate. Though Red fears marrying a non-believer goes against his principles, he can’t stand by and watch Cassie be claimed by the ruthless Sawyer clan.

Living in Red’s rustic cave home is a far cry from Cassie’s former life of luxury. But as she learns to work alongside him, she discovers strength she never knew she possessed. Red’s gentle patience and unwavering faith begin to crack the protective shell she’s built around her heart. When a dangerous enemy threatens their newfound happiness, Cassie and Red must trust in God’s plan—and each other—to survive.

Can a marriage of convenience bloom into true love? And can a woman who’s known only submission find the courage to stand tall? A tender story of healing, hope and the transformative power of unconditional love. Perfect for fans of Janette Oke and Karen Witemeyer.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: Can a battered heart that long ago lost hope, learn to trust again? 

Cassie was put in a terrible situation by first her mother, and then her late husband. Pregnant and with few options, she accepts the marriage proposal of rancher and part-time preacher Red Dawson. A heartwarming romance, with good relationship building and faith. I liked how Red took the time to teach Cassie things about living in the country, showing her support and sharing his faith. 

It starts out a little slow, but there is good interaction. I admired Cassie's willingness to learn new things, as well as Red's support of her and how he made an effort to get to know her. The parts I found hard to read were the parts that got into the bad guy's head, because he was a seriously messed up creep.

Overall, it was a entertaining read with great characters, strong faith, and a romance that you can root for. I liked how Red and Cassie grew over the course of the story and learned to trust and depend on each other. Well worth the read!

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

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist. She is the bestselling author of 75 books and novellas. She has over a million and a half books in print.

Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or find her at Petticoats & Pistols!

 

More from Mary

Montana Rose was one of the first books I wrote. Very early on, though it took a while to get it published. And I ended up rewriting it to make it part of a three book series.

My basic goals with Montana Rose were two fold.

One, I seem almost addicted to writing feisty lady ranchers. I do it so much that I decided I needed to challenge myself. Write a quiet, shy heroine.

Cassie Dawson was born. And the thing with Cassie was, she was so used to being controlled by her much older husband, it was very hard for her new husband to convince her of her own worth.

Drawing Cassie out, finding the inner woman, making her believe she had worth, was such an interesting challenge for me as an author.

For a woman who writes in the same genre all the time, I really do try and mix things up. I PROMISE I DO!

Not sure how often I succeed but making my characters be three dimensional is always my goal. And I try and do different things in my books. A fist fight on a moving train. A fire in a blizzard. Diving off a galloping horse to stop a runaway bad guy. I try different careers and different locations. Always, I am trying something new. In Montana Rose, I picked a quiet, frightened mouse of a woman.

At least that was how it started out. By the end, Cassie finds herself.

So that was the fundamental goal.

And the second aim I had was Love Comes Softly, Janette Oke’s classic, beautiful Christian romance. I just loved that book. The pregnant widow, the husband who’s trying to help and needs help himself. Shove them together into a marriage and try to find love.

Of course, my book has more comedy and more gunfire than Love Comes Softly. I call it love comes softly, with mayhem. I pitched the title Love Comes Loudly. Or maybe Love Comes Hardly. We went with Montana Rose. Probably for the best.

Cassie remains a beloved sweetheart. Red, the best hero I’ve ever written…except he was probably too nice. The hero needs to have some challenges too. But Cassie just needed Red Dawson to be so kind and strong and wise. Yes, he has red hair and he has a temper that rarely erupts…though sometimes. But most Red is the best.

Those are the creative forces that forged Montana Rose.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 30

Texas Book-aholic, July 1

Devoted To Hope, July 2

Books You Can Feel Good About, July 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 3

For Him and My Family, July 4

Simple Harvest Reads, July 5 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, July 6

Sydney Schmied Books, July 7

Labor Not in Vain, July 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, July 9

The Bookish Pilgrim, July 10

She Lives To Read, July 11

Cover Lover Book Review, July 11

Artistic Nobody, July 12 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, July 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary 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/iDuaH/montana-rose-celebration-tour-giveaway

Deep Undercover by Lenora Worth // Review

Lucie's Review: 

NYPD K-9 officers Brianne Hayes and Gavin Sutherland go deep undercover as a wealthy married couple to stop a bomber they call The Tick before it's too late. 

Brianne and Gavin are thrown together in this fast-paced adventure, as they get to know each other, they bond over their shared convictions and love of working with their K-9 partners. I liked their interaction, and connection. There was a lot going on, as well as continuing to keep up with the background story arc that connects the series. 

Overall, a highly enjoyable read with great characters, mystery, tension, faith and great dogs. 

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

A Secret Worth Protecting by Susan L. Tuttle // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Sam Cooper has his hands full as a single father in witness protection. He knows he needs help with his 5-year-old twin girls, and surprised who responds to his ad. None other than Ansley Tait, the girl from high school that he could never forget. But could a second chance at love destroy the stability that he's built for his family?

A heartwarming romance, Sam is a good father working hard to give his girls a stable upbringing in a new town. He's changed a lot over the last few years, and I liked that he and Ansley were able to reconnect and be on the same page about their faith. Ansley is great with the girls, and is always doing fun activities with them and encouraging them to try new things. 

Overall, an enjoyable read with likable characters, adorable children, and great plot. Heartwarming and sweet, definitely recommend!

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