Tag Archives: #ChristianFiction

June Birthday Book Haul!

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Amazon Prime Day(s) this year was just a few days after my birthday, and I loaded up on lots of books! There are quite a few book series I’ve been wanting to start and the gift cards I got were the perfect opportunity to purchase the first books in these series I’ve had my eye on. I can’t wait to get started on them.

After they came in the mail, I was thinking about which one I wanted to start first, and then another thought came to me. There are a ton of series I’ve started-even going years back-and I haven’t kept up with a lot of them-not on purpose-but because there are so many. I need to create a spread sheet or master list-if you will-of the series I’ve started and about to start. It would be great to track them. That said, I’m almost hesitant to begin this project because I know there are more than twenty or so book series I started. Though that would be a good reason for the list! This may be a fun book project to blog about further.

As you can see in the pictures, I got quite a bit of physical books. I also got a few theology books as well, but that will be for other posts. I want to read them first and decide after that if I want to write about them.

I did get a few more ebooks as well because they were such a great deal. Some of you may have remembered I blogged about ones I got on June 19th  and mentioned I may download more.

Did you acquire any books on Prime Day? How many book series are you currently reading, if any? Do share!

Below are the ebooks I bought.

Read a lot, and read widely

Stephanie

The Sky Beneath Her by Mary Ellen Taylor

Published July 1, 2026 by Montlake

It’s been seven years since a tragic diving accident took her mother’s life, leaving Tula Cassidy with a crushing fear of the sea. The ocean she once loved is no longer a part of her. And she can’t imagine it ever will be again.

Until her return to the Outer Banks changes everything.

While clearing out an old beach house, Tula receives a mysterious manuscript about the Oceanus. The passenger ship’s final voyage ended in disaster in 1942, and its underwater wreckage ultimately became her mother’s final resting place.

As Tula unravels the ship’s haunting history, she uncovers not only an unexpected family connection, but also a story of survival that helps her understand her own journey toward healing.

With help from Nathan, the charming dive instructor she left behind years ago, Tula faces her deepest fears to unlock the secrets of both past and present. Sometimes the greatest journeys begin when we find the courage to dive back in.

The Echo of Lost Stories by Victoria Scott

Published  June 28, 2026 by Boldwood Books

1842: London is preparing for Christmas, but Isabelle Burdett wants nothing to do with the world. Grieving her husband, she has withdrawn from work, family, and even her daughter. Yet as Christmas Eve draws to a close, an unexpected arrival at her door shatters her carefully built solitude – and brings a choice that could change everything.

Present day: Emily, a history lecturer still mourning her father, is called to a crumbling house in Cheapside, where developers have discovered a stack of old notebooks. They tell the story of three ghostly visitors on a Christmas Eve long ago. But who wrote them – and how could they have been written before Dickens’s famous tale?

As Emily searches for answers, the past and present collide, and long-hidden truths emerge that will haunt both women forever.

Murder at the Abbey by Irina Shapiro

Redmond and Haze Mysteries #2

Published  June 2, 2020 by Merlin Press LLC

I read the first book in this series and I loved it! You can read my review HERE.

When the body of a young woman is found near the ruins of a haunted abbey, everyone assumes she died of fright. A postmortem examination tells a different story. Not only was Elizabeth Barrett poisoned, but the lethal dose of cyanide must have been administered by someone close to her—someone she trusted, who may have known her secret. As Captain Redmond and Constable Haze delve into the victim’s seemingly ordinary life, they learn she wasn’t the proper, biddable wife everyone believed her to be. With no clear motive for the murder and no obvious suspects, the trail soon grows cold. But the killer is closer than they imagined, waiting to strike with deadly force should they discover the truth.

The Silence by Kendra Elliot

Columbia River #2

Published August 25, 2020 by Montlake

I have not read the first book yet, nor have I read anything from this author. I hope there is not any or a lot of foul language in this one.

A dead conspiracy theorist. A mass murderer. Two cases collide for Callahan and McLane in a pulse-pounding thriller by Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestselling author Kendra Elliot.

A man is savagely murdered outside Portland, and Detective Mason Callahan finds blood-spatter evidence that tells a troubling story. Files reveal the murder victim, Reuben Braswell, was a radical conspiracist. In his home, investigators find pages of diatribes against law enforcement as well as ties to Mason’s fiancée, FBI special agent Ava McLane. The victim was her informant—and had strong reasons to be paranoid.

To Ava, Braswell’s rants were those of a wearying and harmless man…until they collide with her investigation into the murders of police officers and finding the connection becomes urgent. Meanwhile, Braswell’s brother and Ava’s twin sister both disappear, and disturbing acts of sabotage target Ava’s personal life.

For Mason and Ava, the brutal crimes and escalating mysteries create a perfect storm for a terrorist conspiracy that becomes dangerously personal—one that has yet to claim its last victim.

The Blackout Murders by Anna Elliott and

Charles Veley

Homefront Sleuths #1

Published  January 5, 2025 by Wilton Press

I heard this is a great series from a fellow book blogger and they are clean reads.

Five unlikely friends. One quaint village. A killer hiding among them.

It’s 1941, and the village of Crofter’s Green has grown quiet since the Cozy Cup tea shop closed its doors. But when Evie Harris—granddaughter of the shop’s late owner—returns to the village, gossip swirls about her exploits as a London air raid warden. Could she reopen the Cozy Cup? Or is she back for good?

Before anyone can find out, the local air raid warden turns up dead, and the village is left reeling. With the police preoccupied by the war, Evie and four eccentric neighbors form an unlikely team to solve the

Alice A sharp-tongued herbalist who sees everything.

Blake A schoolteacher whose wit is as sharp as his mind.

Harry A retired detective called back into the game.

Dotty Baker: A nosy mum with instincts sharper than her sewing needles.

Together, they uncover secrets that could shatter their little village—and reveal a killer hiding in plain sight.

Book Review: The Island Bookshop by Roseanna M. White

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The Island Shop #1

Published May 9, 2025 by Guideposts

When Kennedy Marshall sets off for a prestigious career in the city, she leaves behind the sunlit shores of North Carolina’s Outer Banks—and runs from a love she believes she can never have. With her sister, Lara, managing their grandmother’s beloved island bookshop, Kennedy feels confident she’s escaped the past. But when Lara is suddenly injured, Kennedy is drawn back into the island’s warm embrace—and bittersweet memories she thought she’d buried forever.

For Wes Armstrong, the Outer Banks is more than home, it’s his anchor. Building a successful family business was supposed to bring stability, but life has been anything but steady since his wife’s passing. Haunted by past regrets and facing a life-changing decision, Wes is determined to make the right choice for his family’s future. Yet Kennedy’s unexpected return stirs up old emotions and mistakes he thought he’d put to rest.

As hidden family secrets surface and long-buried truths come to light, Kennedy and Wes must navigate the delicate tides of forgiveness, second chances, and the unspoken love that still lingers between them. Can they find the courage to rewrite their story and create a new future on the island’s shifting sands?

My thoughts:

This is the first book in The Island Shop series, and the story has two dual timelines, which I love. The setting for both timelines is on the Outer Banks in North Carolina and is the perfect location for this series. I love the coast of North Carolina!

I really enjoyed the wholesomeness of this story and the themes of faith, forgiveness, and second chances. Though I have to say, I wasn’t feeling the spark-if you will-with the relationship with Kennedy and Wes. Oftentimes, the interaction between the two felt forced and flat in my opinion. That said, I did enjoy reading about all the characters, the activity at the bookshop, and I liked reading about the sisterly relationship with Kennedy and Lara in the modern story. I do hope there will be a story coming out that centers around Lara!

I was immersed in the story that takes place in the past more so, and I would have liked to have seen that timeline flesh out a bit more. Nonetheless, both stories were engaging and there was a mystery that connects the past to the present that was well written.  

I read the second book The Island Bakeshop first before starting with this one. I recommend starting with this book first for more background.

This story was atmospheric, heartwarming and is the perfect read for the summertime!

Stephanie

I obtained a review copy from the publishers from NetGalley for an honest review.

Side Bar: Be sure to check out my review for the sequel HERE

Reader’s Log 074: Amazon Prime Ebook Deals

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Amazon Prime Day is running for four days this year, starting June 23 to 26. This special deal is for Amazon Prime members. Already there are many deals that have started and this post is about the ebooks I have already downloaded. I was able to acquire five ebooks that are on my wish-list. Next week, I will be purchasing a few physical copies of novels, and perhaps more ebooks. My Birthday is this weekend. I can’t wait!

The List of ebooks:

  1. The Mountains We Call Home by Kim Michele Richardson
  2. Where the Sea Lavendar Grows by Kitty Johnson
  3. To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer
  4. To Dance with a Duke by Gabrielle Meyer
  5. Pre-ordered: To Educate an Earl Gabrielle Meyer

I was auto approved to read and review “Where the Sea Lavendar Grows” by Kitty Johnson, published by Lake Union Publishing, but my review stack was full for May. I am delighted to get an ebook copy at such a great price. That said, not all my books come from publishers to review. What books I choose to review from publishers depend on several factors.

The Gabrielle Meyer books are part of her Dollar Princess Sereis. I’ve read two of her books from another series so far, and her story telling is so good. I recommend checking out her books.

“The Mountains We Call Home” by Kim Michele Richardson is the third installment in her series “The Book Women of Troublesome Creek.” This series has been on my to-read list for some time and I’m starting with the third book? I’m not sure yet. It depends on if I can get the first two at a good price.

I love the books covers of all these books!

Stephanie

The Mountains We Call Home by Kim Michele Richardson

Published April 21, 2026 by Sourcebooks Landmark

When Cussy Lovett, a Packhorse Librarian famed for bringing books to the people of Appalachia, is unjustly incarcerated, she finds a new calling as a prison librarian, bringing hope to downtrodden women and voiceless city residents alike, finding a home even while separated from those she loves. A vivid portrait of mid-century Kentucky, from the hills and hollers of Appalachia to a vibrant city neighborhood on the cusp of urban renewal, The Mountains We Call Home explores the effects of criminalization and incarceration on the poor and powerless, while tracing the societal consequences of fractured family bonds.

Where the Sea Lavendar Grows by Kitty Johnson

Published May 1, 2026 by Lake Union Publishing

Elise, an artist grieving the loss of her son and a fracturing marriage, is in North Norfolk to restore Marsh House to its former glory, its walls adorned with the fading murals and paintings of its long-ago owner, Lilias Carter-Brown. Elise makes an immediate connection to the house, to Sam—a carpenter and a comfort—and to history itself when an old photograph draws Elise into Lilias’s heartbreaking past.

In 1939, with war threatening, Lilias and her sister turn Marsh House into a sanctuary for London evacuees—a young boy and his mother. But it’s the boy’s father, Harry, an enlistee soon to report for duty, with whom Lilias forms an unexpected and intimate bond. When Harry suddenly vanishes without a trace, it changes the course of Lilias’s life forever.

Now, as Elise and Sam work to solve the mystery of the disappearance, the restoration of Marsh House is bringing Elise back to life as well—to love again, to put her and Lilias’s past to rest, and to finally move on.

To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer

Dollar Princess #1

Published  January 6, 2026

For fans of My Fair Lady and The Gilded Age

New York City, 1883. Keira O’Day has spent her life scraping by in the tenements, haunted by the mystery of her parents’ abandonment. When wealthy widow and social climber, Maude Hill, offers her a daring proposition—to be adopted, polished, and presented as a society bride for an English lord—Keira sees an opportunity she can’t pass up.

Maude’s nephew, Alexander Paxton-Hill, is skeptical from the start. Tasked with teaching Keira the art of charm and flirtation, he soon finds himself captivated by her honesty and warmth as she challenges everything he thought he knew about love—and about himself.

After navigating the glittering, treacherous world of New York society, Keira arrives in England and catches the eye of the elusive Duke of Severton. She’s poised to win everything until a lavish ball, a long-buried secret, and one reckless act of love threaten to unravel it all. Now Keira must the role she’s been prepared to play—or the woman she’s become.

To Dance with a Duke by Gabrielle Meyer

Dollar Princess #2

Published  June 9, 2026

For those who love The Gilded Age and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

In 1884, Ames Welby, the Duke of Severton, is desperate. His ancestral home is falling apart, his tenant farmers are starving, and his family name is tainted by a mysterious scandal that keeps people away. With no fortune and no time, he does the unthinkable—marries for money. But Lily Parker, the American heiress he weds in haste, is no pampered socialite. She’s practical, passionate, and has a plan to restore Pickering Castle—and the reputation of the five reclusive Welby brothers.

Inspired by her love of matchmaking and her longing for connection, Lily invites four eligible young women to a summer house party, hoping to spark romance and rebuild the family’s future. What follows is a whirlwind of mischief, mismatched couples, and unexpected love. But when Lily’s belief in true love clashes with Ames’s fear of family curses and social ruin, their fragile marriage is put to the ultimate test.

To Educate an Earl by Gabrielle Meyer

Dollar Princess #3

Expected Publication  October 6, 2026 by

For those swept away by The Gilded Age and The Sound of Music.

In 1886, when a scheming suitor threatens her family’s fragile reputation, Adeline Ranier is sent to England under a false name to pose as a governess for the Earl of Torrington’s five motherless children. Stripped of her title and fortune, she steps into a world of quiet sorrow and stubborn resistance—and discovers a household aching for joy.

George Stafford, the Earl of Torrington, has buried his heart along with his late wife. His children have driven away every governess, and he has no hope that Miss Ranier will be any different. But Addie’s unconventional charm, fierce loyalty, and refusal to give up begin to awaken something long forgotten in all of them, including George.

As laughter returns to the halls of Torrington Manor, Addie finds herself falling for the children—and for their father. But secrets from her past threaten to unravel everything, especially when George chooses a wealthy heiress to be his bride. Torn between duty and desire, Addie must decide whether to protect her heart or fight for the family she’s come to love.

Author Spotlight: Connilyn Cossette

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Christian Fiction/Biblical Fiction/Historical Fiction/Romance

I’ve had my eye on Connilyn Cossette’s work for sometime now and I’ve decided I want to start with her Cities of Refuge series. That said, It was a toss-up between this series and her Out from Egypt series. Perhaps, I could go back and forth with them. Hmm…

I love reading stories that take place in the Old Testament period, and of course, the New Testament period as well. I may have mentioned Cossette’s before and if I have, it deserves another mention. Also, I like the covers of these books! The second book cover is my favorite! I am hoping to acquire these books soon!

Have you read this author’s work before? Do you read Biblical Historical Fiction novels? Which are your favorites?

Stephanie

A Light on the Hill

Published : February 6, 2018 by Bethany House Publishers

Setting in Israel

Though Israel has found relative peace, Moriyah has yet to find her own. Attempting to avoid the scorn of her community, she’s spent the last seven years hiding behind the veil she wears. Underneath her covering, her face is branded with the mark of the Canaanite gods, a shameful reminder of her past captivity in Jericho and an assurance that no man will ever want to marry her.

When her father finds a widower, who needs a mother for his two sons, her hopes rise. But when their introduction goes horribly wrong, Moriyah is forced to flee for her life. Seeking safety at one of the newly established Levitical cities of refuge, she is wildly unprepared for the dangers she will face and the enemies—and unexpected allies—she will encounter on her way.

Shelter of the Most High

Cities of Refuge #2

Published October 2, 2018 by Bethany House Publishers

The daughter of a pagan high priest, Sofea finds solace from her troubles in the freedom of the ocean. But when marauders attack her village on the island of Sicily, she and her cousin are taken across the sea to the shores of Canaan.

Eitan has lived in Kedesh, a city of refuge, for the last eleven years, haunted by a tragedy in his childhood, yet chafing at the boundaries placed on him. He is immediately captivated by Sofea, but revealing his most guarded secret could mean drawing her into the danger of his past.

As threats from outside the walls loom and traitors are uncovered within, Sofea and Eitan are plunged into the midst of a murder plot. Can they uncover the betrayal in time to save their lives and the lives of those they love?

Until the Mountains Fall

Cities of Refuge #3

Recently widowed, Rivkah refuses to submit to the Torah law compelling her to marry her husband’s brother and instead flees Kedesh, hoping to use her talents as a scribe to support herself. Without the protections of her father, Kedesh’s head priest, and the safety of the city of refuge, Rivkah soon discovers that the cost of recklessness is her own freedom.

Malakhi has secretly loved Rivkah for years, but he never imagined his older brother’s death would mean wedding her himself. After her disappearance, he throws himself into the ongoing fight against the Canaanites instead of dwelling on all he has lost. But with impending war looming over Israel, Rivkah’s father comes to Malakhi with an impossible request.

As the enemies that Rivkah and Malakhi face from without and within Israel grow more threatening each day, is it too late for the restoration their wounded souls seek?

Like Flames in the Night

Cities of Refuge #4

Published May 1, 2020 by Bethany House Publishers

Strong-willed Tirzah wants to join her people in driving the enemy from the land of Israel and undergoes training for a secret mission inside the stronghold of Shechem. But soon after she has infiltrated the ruthless Aramean commander’s kitchen, she makes a reckless decision that puts her and her allies in grave danger.

Fresh off the battlefield, Liyam returns home to discover his beloved daughter is dead. After his vow to hunt down her killer leads to months of fruitless pursuit, his last hope is in a family connection that comes with strings attached. Strings that force him to pose as a mercenary and rescue an infuriating woman who refuses to leave her mission uncompleted.

When an opportunity to pave a path to a Hebrew victory arises, can Tirzah convince Liyam to fight alongside her in the refuge city of her birth? Or will Liyam’s thirst for vengeance outweigh his duty to his people, his God, and the woman he’s come to love?

About the Author:

Connilyn Cossette is a Christy Award-winning, bestselling author who loves digging into the ancient world of the Bible and crafting immersive stories that encourage readers to encounter the Great Storyteller himself. As the grateful adoptive mom of two homeschool graduates and a recent breast cancer survivor, she knows firsthand how Yahweh’s steadfast love redeems every unexpected plot twist. She and her husband of nearly thirty years are based just north of Charlotte, North Carolina, with suitcases always half-packed for their next adventure together.

Book Review: The Island Bakeshop by Roseanna M. White

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Published May 19,2026 by Guideposts

Happy Publication Day!

Small-town Christian Fiction Story

Description

In this uplifting story of hope and renewal, you’ll meet Harper Dailey, who returns to Avon, North Carolina, so she can help run the family business, Sunshine Bakery, after her father’s heart attack. Suddenly, her thriving career at an upscale Savannah bakery is behind her, as is her rocky relationship with her ex-boyfriend—that is, until he shows up in Avon, letting her know he now owns the building the shop is in, and he may not renew the lease.

For Beckett Mills, Avon is a quiet refuge after his eight years of active service in the Navy. He works as hard at keeping folks at arm’s length as he does at running his fishing charter business. His plan for distancing himself from others works well until the fateful day he enters the bakery and sees a beautiful Harper being harassed by her ex-boyfriend. Suddenly, he casts his fears aside and steps in to save the day.

Harper and Beckett have no intentions of beginning a romance, but when the pasts they are running from collide, they know it’s not just a coincidence that they have ended up here at the same time. God has placed them together for a reason. Can Beckett let go of the worries that haunt him and welcome Harper into his life? Will Harper realize she can face any challenge with God—and just maybe Beckett—by her side? Don’t miss this faith-filled story of hope, courage, and the grace to begin anew.

My thoughts:

The Island Bakeshop is a sweet young-adult-like romance story that has dual timelines. Both equally a page turner and each take place on the coast. As the story develops, you began to see a connection to the two-story lines and the conclusion is heartwarming.

Harper and Beck’s story is heartbreaking and haunting, and as they both deal with their past that has interrupted their present lives, they must find a way to deal with their problems before it will destroy everything, they worked hard to be able to move forward with their lives-whether it be together or separately.

As the story builds, I found myself not able to put this book down. I typically don’t read stories like this one but I’m glad I took a chance on it. I started with this book first, before the first book in the series, and now I need to go back and read the first book. You see, I’ve now become invested in these characters lives and want to learn more about them.

What a sweet, light and absorbing story. This book would be the perfect summer read.

Stephanie

I received an ARC from the publishers through NetGalley for an honest review.

Wish-list 5: Beautifully Written Literature

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I haven’t posted a wish-list of books in a while, and when I explored the books I’ve added to read, and to group together to read back to back, I knew this would make a marvelous Wish-list 5 post.

All Creatures Great and Small is a classic and I feel I know it well but haven’t read it-I believe. At least, not that I can remember, but who would forget a story like this one? Anyhow, I can’t wait to pick up a copy and get started on the “unforgettable world of James Herriot.”

I love reading stories that take place in Ireland and certainly Foster by Claire Keegan is the perfect story to read during the summer months.

The artist and creative side of me finds Theo of Golden by Allen Levi an intriguing premise and Theo who visits a coffeehouse and purchases the portraits on the wall to give them back to their “rightful owners” sounds fascinating!

Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather sounds like an intriguing read, particularly because I love stories about vicars or vicars that are included in stories. This story centers around Father Jean Marie Latour 1851 comes to serve as the Apostolic Vicar to New Mexico…

When I came across Jayber Crow by Wendell Berry and read the first few lines of the description, “This is a book about Heaven,” says Jayber Crow, “but I must say too that . . . I have wondered sometimes if it would not finally turn out to be a book about Hell,” I knew I had to read this story to find out more about this statement the author wrote.  

Be sure to read the book descriptions below! Have you read any of these stories before? Or are they any that grabs your attention? Do share!

Stephanie

All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot

First published January 1, 1972 / Then Published      April 15, 1998 by St. Martin’s Paperbacks

Delve into the magical, unforgettable world of James Herriot, the world’s most beloved veterinarian, and his menagerie of heartwarming, funny, and tragic animal patients.

For over forty years, generations of readers have thrilled to Herriot’s marvelous tales, deep love of life, and extraordinary storytelling abilities. For decades, Herriot roamed the remote, beautiful Yorkshire Dales, treating every patient that came his way from smallest to largest, and observing animals and humans alike with his keen, loving eye.

In All Creatures Great and Small, we meet the young Herriot as he takes up his calling and discovers that the realities of veterinary practice in rural Yorkshire are very different from the sterile setting of veterinary school. Some visits are heart-wrenchingly difficult, such as one to an old man in the village whose very ill dog is his only friend and companion, some are lighthearted and fun, such as Herriot’s periodic visits to the overfed and pampered Pekinese Tricki Woo who throws parties and has his own stationery, and yet others are inspirational and enlightening, such as Herriot’s recollections of poor farmers who will scrape their meager earnings together to be able to get proper care for their working animals. From seeing to his patients in the depths of winter on the remotest homesteads to dealing with uncooperative owners and critically ill animals, Herriot discovers the wondrous variety and never-ending challenges of veterinary practice as his humor, compassion, and love of the animal world shine forth.Foster

Foster by Claire Keegan

Published August 18, 2022 by Faber & Faber

It is a hot summer in rural Ireland. A child is taken by her father to live with relatives on a farm, not knowing when or if she will be brought home again. In the Kinsellas’ house, she finds an affection and warmth she has not known and slowly, in their care, begins to blossom. But there is something unspoken in this new household – where everything is so well tended to – and the summer must come to an end.

Adapted into the Oscar-nominated film adaptation, An Cailín Ciúin / The Quiet Girl

From the author of the Booker-shortlisted Small Things Like These, a heartbreaking, haunting story of childhood, loss and love by one of Ireland’s most acclaimed writers.

Theo of Golden by Allen Levi

Published October 3, 2025 by Simon & Schuster

One spring morning, a stranger arrives in the small southern city of Golden. No one knows where he has come from…or why…

His name is Theo. And he asks a lot more questions than he answers.

Theo visits the local coffeehouse, where ninety-two pencil portraits hang on the walls, portraits of the people of Golden done by a local artist. He begins purchasing them, one at a time, and putting them back in the hands of their “rightful owners.” With each exchange, a story is told, a friendship born, and a life altered.

Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather

Published June 16, 1990 by Vintage

Willa Cather’s best-known novel is an epic–almost mythic–story of a single human life lived simply in the silence of the southwestern desert. In 1851 Father Jean Marie Latour comes to serve as the Apostolic Vicar to New Mexico. What he finds is a vast territory of red hills and tortuous arroyos, American by law but Mexican and Indian in custom and belief. In the almost forty years that follow, Latour spreads his faith in the only way he knows–gently, all the while contending with an unforgiving landscape, derelict and sometimes openly rebellious priests, and his own loneliness. Out of these events, Cather gives us an indelible vision of life unfolding in a place where time itself seems suspended.

Jayber Crow by Wendell Berry

Published August 30, 2001 by Counterpoint

“This is a book about Heaven,” says Jayber Crow, “but I must say too that . . . I have wondered sometimes if it would not finally turn out to be a book about Hell.” It is 1932 and he has returned to his native Port William to become the town’s barber. Orphaned at age ten, Jayber Crow’s acquaintance with loneliness and want have made him a patient observer of the human animal, in both its goodness and frailty. He began his search as a “pre-ministerial student” at Pigeonville College. There, freedom met with new burdens and a young man needed more than a mirror to find himself. But the beginning of that finding was a short conversation with “Old Grit,” his profound professor of New Testament Greek.

“You have been given questions to which you cannot be given answers. You will have to live them out―perhaps a little at a time.”

“And how long is that going to take?”

“I don’t know. As long as you live, perhaps.”

“That could be a long time.”

“I will tell you a further mystery,” he said. “It may take longer.” Wendell Berry’s clear-sighted depiction of humanity’s gifts―love and loss, joy and despair―is seen though his intimate knowledge of the Port William Membership.

Reader’s Log 070: A Week of Mystery and Crime Solving

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I tend to gravitate towards mystery reads for several reasons and it’s definitely the same reasons a lot of others do as well. Lately, I’ve increased my reading in the genre and so far, I have not been disappointed with my selection of late!

I love the engagement in solving puzzles and the analytical skills one employs while reading mystery. The race to solve whodunnit and why, and to see the triumph of justice. Suspenseful twists and turns that keeps one turning the page and while at the same time often feeling you don’t want the story to end because you’re invested in the characters lives. Thank goodness for series! Did I mention it is an adventure as well? Yes, it is an adventure to read these stories.

Today, I am sharing three book I am currently reading and I can’t wait to share my thoughts on them! What are you currently reading?

Coming up this week, I will be posting my book review for You Belong Here Now by Dianna Rostad.

Stephanie

Murder with a Side of Shrimp and Grits

by Skylar Warren

Expected Publish Date: May 13, 2026 @Bookouture

Cozy Mystery / Mystery / Fiction / Southern Story

Welcome to Honeybee’s diner, where the scent of butter and garlic wraps itself around you, thick and comforting. Jessie Haynes’ homestyle cooking feeds the hearts and souls of the good people of Willow Bluff. Until someone puts murder on the menu!

Y’all are invited to dig into a steamin’ plate of meatloaf. The diner’s well-worn red chairs have cradled folks from every corner of Willow Bluff—Jessie’s podcasting bestie, Tee, Old Mr Higgins, two mighty mischievous kittens, Biscuits and Gravy, and every tattling townsperson in between—so when the mayor turns blue after a bite of Jessie’s famous shrimp and grits, she finds herself in seriously hot water…

Suddenly, all eyes are swivelled toward Jessie. For fifty years her family has fed Willow Bluff, and Jessie won’t let one mouthful shatter the legacy of her grandmother’s secret recipes. The mayor’s peanut allergy was the talk of the town, so when traces are found in his food, Jessie must fight to clear her name.

An empty peanut packet in the diner’s pantry has Jessie and Tee hot on the heels of the murderer when another case of food tampering occurs at a nearby bakery. Someone is dishing out delicious death sentences—but how many locals will get served before Jessie can crack the case? Her investigation must be a recipe for success or Honeybee’s will be toast…

The Lumber Baron’s Wife by Lynn Austin

Historical Fiction / Christian Fiction / Mystery / Fiction

Published April 7, 2026 @TyndaleFiction

When the young wife of a powerful lumber baron vanishes into the wilds of frontier Michigan, her friend is left to unravel the truth in this captivating dual-timeline novel from bestselling author Lynn Austin.

1873

After a devastating loss, Hannah Wagner never imagined she’d leave her comfortable home for the harsh, unfamiliar wilderness near Lake Michigan. But when Henry Abernathy, a friend of her husband John, offers them a fresh start in a booming lumber town—where John’s skills as a doctor are sorely needed—Hannah reluctantly agrees.

There, she meets Kate Abernathy, Henry’s spirited, much younger wife. Kate’s sharp tongue and outsider status have made her unwelcome among the town’s elite. As she begins confiding in Hannah, it becomes clear her marriage is not what it seems—and that a secret from her past could destroy everything.

Present Day

Ashley Gilbert never planned to settle in Michigan, but when her husband lands his dream job as a conservationist, she agrees to follow. While restoring their historic home—built in the 19th century for a doctor and his wife—Ashley becomes captivated by its past and its connection to the nearby Abernathy mansion, now being transformed into a museum.

While volunteering with the restoration, Ashley stumbles upon the unsolved mystery of Kate Abernathy’s disappearance. What begins as curiosity soon becomes a quest for the truth—one that will connect her to two women whose stories and struggles echo and inspire her own.

Standalone historical fiction about marriage, grief, and the power of female friendships from the author of All My Secrets and Long Way Home A richly layered Christian women’s fiction novel with elements of mystery, perfect for fans of Martha Hall Kelly, Kristy Cambron, and Susan Meissner Includes discussion questions for book clubs

The Last Fatal Hour by Jan Matthews

Published April 7, 2026 @Coffee&inkPress

Historical Mystery / Mystery / Historical / Fiction

For Leona Gladney, former woman soldier of the Union Army, life goes on despite the echoes of the battlefield in her heart. Now a suffragist and budding socialite in Brooklyn Heights, she yearns for a literary life and family. But her husband’s business partner embezzles their money and disappears.

The society matrons of Brooklyn Heights turn a gimlet eye on Leona after the suspicious death of a wealthy friend. Leona will do anything to find justice for her friend and clear her own name, but she finds only secrets, seances and murder.

Book Review: In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer

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Timeless #2

Published May 2, 2023 by Bethany House Publishers

Maggie inherited a gift from her time-crossing parents that allows her to live three separate lives in 1861, 1941, and 2001. Each night she goes to sleep-in one-time period and wakes up in another. Until, that is, she turns twenty-one, when she will have to forfeit two of those lives–and everyone she knows in them–forever.

In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of an influential senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a Navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she’s asked to join a hospital ship being sent to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she’s a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon, yet unable to use her modern skills in her other paths.

While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era. The mysterious British gentleman. The prickly, demanding doctor. The charming young congressman. She’s drawn to each man in different ways, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer.

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I can’t quite find the right words to describe how deeply moving, thought provoking and a wonderfully written this story is told. One must read the book for themselves to experience its offerings. Meyer has a God given gift to reach readers’ hearts and she deftly pulls you into the story as if you were the time crosser, experiencing firsthand the realities of the deeply layered events that was unfolding and the potential risks of losing everything you hold dear in life with a single life altering decision.

Often times with multiple timelines, world building often feels like a massive pile on, and the narrative is weighed down with too many complex moving parts. In this story, Meyer effortlessly weaves not one or two, but three different frameworks of world building in highly charged historic events in America history.

Meyer’s knowledge of historic events is shown throughout the story and how the theme of multiple wars converged in this story with life altering effects, was well conceived and thought provoking.

Meyer examines human traits, that too often, people are uncomfortable with talking about in an open and honest way. Especially for Christians in fear of judgment from others. For example, Maggie has an internal emotional conflict with being angry at God and the raw human side one may feel with that experience was honest, refreshing, and I highly appreciate Meyer for including this in the story.

I appreciated the family connections and historic implications from the first book to this book. I wonder, will the family connections be part of the whole series? I can’t wait to find out!

As the story built, the decision Maggie would have to make about which life she would choose was intense! I kept weighing the path she would choose and wondered how she would say her goodbyes in the others, left pondering what I would have done if I were in her shoes.

I felt such emotional intensity throughout this story and I have to admit, at first, I was a bit taken back by that fact. I didn’t expect the story to impact me that way on a personal level. That certainly shows how engaged I was with Maggie’s’ time crossing, the events unfolding, and the other characters’ lives.

When I finished reading the story, I couldn’t help think how will this series would get better because this book is outstanding. My hope for this series is that Meyer keeps adding to it!

Stephanie  

Book Review: The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall by Jaime Jo Wright

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Published October 21, 2025 by Bethany House Publishers

In 1890, the ominous tolling of the bell announces that death has come to Traeger Hall, leaving orphaned Waverly Pembrooke to piece together the puzzle behind her uncle’s and aunt’s murders. Bound by the terms of her uncle’s eccentric will, Waverly finds herself alone in a manor shrouded by death and questioning her uncle’s paranoid motivations. A madness hovers over Traeger Hall, and Waverly–as well as the people of nearby Newton Creek–are ill-prepared for the woe that has descended on the property.

In present day Newton Creek, the whispers of a curse still cling to the century-old time capsule of Traeger Hall. When Jennie Phillips takes possession of the estate after the death of her parents, she is intent on solving the century-old mystery of the Traeger murders. Yet a modern cold case suggests that untimely deaths and mysterious occurrences still form the cornerstone of the manor. And as thorny truths surface, Jennie realizes the dark legacy threatens not only the town and the Traeger descendants . . . but also, chillingly, Jennie herself.

My Thoughts:

This is the third book by Wright that I have read and so far, my favorite. Back in 2018, I reviewed Wright’s debut novel The House on Foster Hill and I was a bit critical of the story.

Gothic is one of my top five favorite subgenres and I’m always on the lookout for them. Does “The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall” truly qualify? Indeed, it does and at the same time Wright has brought a uniqueness to the genre that if you were to read a story without knowing who wrote it, you will immediately know who by the style of writing.

This story has multiple timelines and Wright is great with them. They worked really well together and the build up was intense at times which kept me from putting the book down. Love that! That said, there were at times, I felt the “faith” elements were sprinkled in to qualify as Christian Fiction and it didn’t work well for me.There were also times, I felt things could have been fleshed out better, and I didn’t feel a real sense of closure with Jennie’s story.

Jennie inherited Traeger Hall and the condition of the will regarding the estate is interesting to say the least. I have two minds about it and I wondered if others who have read the story, knows what I mean. The oddness of the inheritance does set the stage and I was deeply drawn into what the outcome would be.

In the beginning of the story, both of Jennie’s parents are dead and her wealthy father was cruel and abusive to both Jennie and her mother when he was alive. The story doesn’t really get into the scope of it but you assuredly will know it and the undertones suggest a deeper tragic family life then told.

Waverly Pembrooke’s time at the house was truly bizarre and she found herself entangled in what appears to have been a borderline insane environment. Her Uncle-who owns Traeger Hall- was was creepy, controlling, greedy, extremely intense and a whole lot more. He actually had all the makings of a narcissists in my opinion. Waverly’s Aunt seemed distance and uncaring but there is a story there. I will leave it up to the reader to discover more about her.

The secrets the house held on tightly to was fascinating to read about and I liked the bread crumbs-if you will- that are given to make you think of all sorts of what-ifs and whodunit. I did not see the ending coming on who killed Waverly’s Uncle and Aunt and when it was revealed, I thought what a fantastic plot twist!

I have to say, next time when I come across a bell tolling, I have no doubt I will think of this story.

Despite my misgivings of the story, I look forward to reading more books by Wright.

Stephanie

Reader’s Log 067: Reading in Those Dreary Moments

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This past Monday, the weather outside was dreary and cold in the south. One’s mood could turn down the melancholy road, and I was heading in that direction by the afternoon. Before that feeling rooted itself, I told myself it was a good day to settle down with a book and a cup of tea. I started reading, “Out of Time” by Irene Hannon this past Sunday night, and I was trying my hardest to keep my eyes open to continue reading. I couldn’t wait to pick it up back. One would think by reading the book description, this story would not be a cozy read. The weather is hot and concerning incidents that set the mood, occurred immediately and continued. Perhaps, those details distracted me from the weather outside. Whatever the case, I couldn’t put this book down. I was completely immersed.

I love a good suspense story that entails a small town, an old mystery, treasure, isolated estate, and journals with cultural, historical elements. Irene Hannon’s story is just the ticket.

Don’t you just love it when you find an author whose stories you haven’t read before and then you get excited about searching other books by them? I do!

Most likely by the time you see this post, I will have finished this story and I look forward to sharing my thoughts more on the book and what other stories I’ve chosen to read by this author.   

Stephanie

About the Book:

Book #3 in the Undaunted Courage Series

For historical anthropologist Cara Tucker, the chance to spend a sabbatical semester on a remote country estate–with full access to its vast library and centuries-old journals–is a dream come true . . . until a series of strange incidents begin to turn her dream into a nightmare. Someone, it seems, does not want anyone diving into the past and unearthing old ghosts.

Sheriff Brad Adams has seen his share of suspicious activities during his law enforcement career, but what’s happening at the isolated estate is out-of-pattern in his quiet, rural Missouri county. Beset by danger, Cara and Brad work together to try to untangle the clues. But when the peril turns lethal, the situation takes on a new urgency, and their mission is Find out who is behind the string of menacing incidents before the perpetrator strikes another deadly blow. 

About the Author:

Irene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 65 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization’s elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers’ Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers’ Best, and Reviewers’ Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.

Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.

A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.