Review: The Caregiver at Wounded Knee

The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This historical event is something I did not know until I read this book.

The struggle of the natives to fit in with the “new normal” but still keep their culture and traditions were difficult. It made me wonder why we can’t all work together to a new future but still embrace and respect everyone’s differences which makes us unique.

This story had me engaged. I planned to read 2 hours a day but ended up finishing it over two days.

It was a heartbreaking event and one of those things which could have been prevented if someone just took the time to learn about each other’s beliefs and traditions instead of forcing everyone to act the same.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


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About the book:

Past and Present Collide on the Railway
 
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
 
More from the Enduring Hope
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee

Review: Atlas

Atlas by Ronie Kendig
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

Reading Atlas was like spending time with loved ones who you haven’t seen for a while.

When I learned that the author is bringing out a series featuring the children of the Nightshade team in the Discarded Hero series, I was excited and knew I wanted to read the series ASAP.
And the interaction between Atlas and the members of the Nightshade team reminded me why the author won my heart with this group of heroes.

I enjoyed the action and suspense and seeing how old and new worked together. The danger element was never ending and Atlas’s desire and struggle to measure up to a legacy believable.
The banter between team members I have come to love in the author’s books was also overflowing in this story.

There is a thread which was mentioned in the beginning of the book but not solved, which I am expecting will wrap up at the end of the series.

If you love military thrillers and fell in love with the Discarded heroes, you will enjoy this book as well.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


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About the book:

Some hearts are worth fighting for—even when the battle comes home.

Olympic sharpshooter McKenna Neeley thought her biggest challenge was living up to her legendary father's legacy as Nightshade's team sniper. But working as a junior Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Armenia, she's about to face her most perilous mission yet—and it has nothing to do with diplomacy.

When a high-stakes dinner party brings Dante Riddell back into her life, McKenna's carefully ordered world tilts off its axis. The brooding security specialist from Omen Tactical Group was her childhood crush, but now he's all grown up—and guarding secrets as closely as he guards his VIP clients.

Despite finally being claimed by his father as a teen, Dante has spent his life believing he isn’t worthy of the Nightshade legacy. When his duty collides with McKenna's consular work sparks fly and keeping their distance becomes impossible. She's everything he remembers and more—brilliant, compassionate, and dangerously distracting. His job is complete the mission and walk away before his damaged heart gets involved.

But when a deadly enemy disrupts peace talks, simple plans shatter like glass.

Trapped together in a web of international intrigue, McKenna and Dante must trust each other—and God’s plan—forging a love that's been years in the making. Because sometimes the greatest battles aren't fought with weapons, but with faith, forgiveness, and the courage to believe in second chances.

Can two wounded hearts find healing in each other's arms, or will the shadows of their past destroy their chance at forever?

"A beautiful blend of faith, heart-pounding suspense, and swoon-worthy romance. This book touched my soul!" — Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling author

Discarded Scions
Book 1: Atlas
Book 2: Apollo
Book 3: Achilles

About the author:

An Army brat, Ronie Kendig grew up in the classic military family, with her father often TDY and her mother holding down the proverbial fort. Their family moved often, which left Ronie attending six schools by the time she’d entered fourth grade. Her respite and “friends” during this time were the characters she created.

It was no surprise when she married a military veteran—her real-life hero—in June 1990 and recently celebrated their 30th Anniversary. Despite the craziness of life, Ronie finds balance and peace with her faith, family, retired military working dog VVolt N629, and Benning the Stealth Golden a short train ride from New York City.

Ronie has a deep love and passion for people, which is why she earned a degree in Psychology from Liberty University. Ronie speaks and teaches across the country and mentors other writers.

Ronie Kendig's website

Review: The Other Side of Goodbye

The Other Side of Goodbye by Heidi McCahan
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

With this story, readers will be taken on the ups and downs of surviving loss and heartbreak and trying to move on and hope for a happy future.

I've met Chase in the novella and understood and felt Tisha’s loss and grief. In her story we could see that everyone has their own pace of letting go and moving forward. I adored her mother-in-law and how she supported Tisha but wanted her to step into God’s future of happiness.

Ethan has to find his way as a single parent and I loved seeing how he grew in this.

Sadie and Brody were adorable but I feel the author pinned their characters down very well. Children who had to deal with the loss of a parent.

This story will take readers on the truest journey of how to let go but still remember and to trust that God has still has a happy future planned.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

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About the book:

Where broken hearts come to heal.

"Just because you lost Chase doesn't mean you have to shut me out... “

Sometimes the greatest love stories begin with the deepest losses.

When widow Tisha Binford arrives in Redemption, Alaska with her seven-year-old daughter Sadie, she's carrying more than just their belongings—she's carrying the weight of her late husband's memory and the hope of giving Sadie a connection to the father she barely knew. Working at her in-laws' café and perfecting her pie recipes, Tisha believes she's building a quiet, safe life in this small coastal town.

But Redemption has other plans.

Ethan McGuire, a recently retired Coast Guard pilot, has returned home with his own heavy burden—raising his eight-year-old son Brody alone after losing his wife to cancer. Determined to be the father Brody needs, Ethan thinks he has his future mapped help with the family resort, support his struggling son, and keep his heart carefully guarded.

When a school conflict brings their children together as unlikely friends, Tisha and Ethan find themselves drawn into each other's orbits. But moving forward means confronting painful Can you honor the past while embracing the future? How do you teach children to love again when your own heart is still learning?

As Redemption faces an unexpected natural disaster, both families must discover that sometimes the other side of goodbye isn't an ending—it's the beginning of something beautiful, messy, and worth fighting for.

A heartwarming story about second chances, blended families, and the courage to love again, set against the stunning backdrop of small-town Alaska.
________________________________________
Perfect for readers who
• Small-town romance with heart
• Stories of healing and hope
• Complex family dynamics
• Alaskan settings
• Characters who feel like real people facing real challenges

Welcome to Redemption, Alaska
Book 1: The Other Side of Goodbye
Book 2: The Long Way Back to You
Book 3: The Last Mile Between Us
Book 4: The Hidden Light of Her

About the author:

Heidi McCahan writes uplifting inspirational romance novels set in small towns. She is a bestselling author of several books, including Her Alaskan Family and A Baby in Alaska. A perfect day for Heidi includes a huge cup of good coffee, dark chocolate, and reading stories with happy endings. She makes her home in North Carolina with her handsome husband, three amazing boys, and the world’s greatest Goldendoodle. Heidi is represented by Steve Laube of The Steve Laube Agency. A Winter of Sweet Secrets, Heidi’s next novel with Harlequin Love Inspired, releases on September 30, 2025.

Review: The Lies We Trade

The Lies We Trade by Kristine Delano
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This debut was well written and will keep readers engaged, and up late at night trying to find out what is going on and who is behind everything.

The premise of the story is about the stock market. The author did a great job of explaining the terms she used with basic everyday examples.

Though I was pulled in and totally committed to find out the truth, there was a lot happening in the story with lota of detail and characters which made the book feel a bit too busy.

However, the main character was driven but flawed and her relationship troubles added a realistic element to the story.

The author also did a great job of giving readers a little bit of leads, but then throwing them off with some twists and turns.

This debut thriller will be a great addition to the TBR of readers who are looking for clean but engaging thriller.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

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About the book:

A high-powered Wall Street career, a beautiful family in a quiet suburban neighborhood—she seems to have everything. Which means she has everything to lose.

Meredith Hansel should be having the best week of her life. After establishing herself as a portfolio manager at a prestigious Wall Street firm, she’s in the national spotlight for the innovative funds she created. But as Meredith prepares to celebrate, the plates she’s kept spinning for years begin to Her strained marriage reaches a breaking point. Her conscientious teenage daughter acts out under mysterious pressures. Someone vandalizes her home with disturbing graffiti. And Betsey, her most trusted ally at the financial firm, goes rogue, and Meredith is forced to sign a restraining order against her.

Then her worlds collide when she receives a thumb drive and a cryptic note from Betsey threatening to reveal a secret that could have devastating effects on Meredith’s family . . . unless she can figure out what Betsey wants and deliver it in time.

As Meredith begins to dig into the data, however, she begins to suspect that it’s no coincidence her life is crumbling. That maybe what’s happening to her family is connected to what’s boiling beneath the surface at her investment company. Soon Meredith realizes there’s only one way to avoid taking the fall, and it all hinges on Betsey’s true motives. Was she really threatening Meredith or trying to warn her?

Great for fans of Colleen Coble, Laura Dave, Dani Pettrey, and Lisa ScottolineClean, high-stakes women’s domestic suspense with workplace secrets and family dramaA stand-alone Wall Street thriller. Includes discussion questions for book clubs.

Review: When I'm With You

When I'm With You by Rachel Hauck
My rating: 💛💛💛

This story, set in the sweet town of Hearts Bend, will give readers an escape to a small town where everyone knows each other, but also wants the best for each other.

Elizabeth was such a strong, focused and independent person, mainly due to her upbringing and overcoming illness. I loved all the scenes with her and her family. They were so supportive but also in a gentle way tried to push her to maybe think that her plans are just that, her own plans and not God’s plans.

Ryder was easy to like and his struggles to keep up with Elizabeth and be the best option for her felt real. The target on his back with the weird orders and invoices was also interesting to try to uncover. Ryder’s faith and strength added to his charm.

While everyone had given Elizabeth advice (I especially loved her mom’s input) and different options for her future, they allowed and trusted her to go her own way to find her way and purpose in life. Her faith was not so strong in the beginning of the story, but was a beautiful growth journey throughout the story.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


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About the book:

She had her life mapped out perfectly—until love rewrote every plan.

Elizabeth Dorsey doesn't do detours. Fresh from MIT with honors and her sights set on Wharton's MBA program, she's got her next twenty years planned down to the minute. A quick summer stint at the family furniture business in sleepy Hearts Bend, Tennessee? Just a pit stop before conquering the Fortune 100.

But some destinations are worth changing course for.

Enter Ryder Donovan—the wildlife officer who once filled her teenage summers with friendship and innocent longing. Now he's all grown up, devastatingly handsome, and stirring feelings that threaten to derail everything Elizabeth thought she wanted. When a mysterious fire brings them together and false accusations tear them apart, Elizabeth must choose between the future she's always planned and the love she never saw coming.

In Hearts Bend, Tennessee, some fires burn hotter than others...

As Elizabeth uncovers fraud that could destroy Ryder's career, their chemistry ignites into something neither can ignore. But with her acceptance to Wharton finally in hand and Ryder facing a job offer in Colorado, can two people heading in opposite directions find their way to the same future?

Sometimes the biggest risk isn't following your dreams—it's having the courage to change them.

"A swoon-worthy romance that perfectly captures the magic of small-town love and second chances. Elizabeth and Ryder's story will have you believing in happily ever after all over again." Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling author

Perfect for fans Debbie Macomber • Susan Mallery • RaeAnne Thayne

❤️ Small-town romance at its finest
🔥 Childhood friends to lovers
💍 A proposal that will melt your heart
🌟 Family bonds that heal and strengthen

When love calls, will you answer?

Get your copy today and fall in love with Hearts Bend!

About the author:

New York Times, USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Rachel Hauck writes from sunny

central Florida.

A RITA finalist and winner of Romantic Times Inspirational Novel of the Year, and Career Achievement Award, she writes vivid characters dealing with real life issues.

Her book, Once Upon A Prince, was made into an original Hallmark movie.

The Wedding Dress has been optioned for film by Brain Power Studio

She loves to hear from readers. She also loves to encourage new writers and is a retired member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Executive Board.

A graduate of Ohio State University with a BA in Journalism, Rachel is an avid OSU football fan. She hopes to one day stand on the sidelines in the Shoe with Ryan Day.

Visit her web site to find out more and click on the icons to follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

www.rachelhauck.com

Review: Mistletoe Season: Three Christmas Stories

Mistletoe Season: Three Christmas Stories by Sheila Roberts
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This collection of Christmas novellas were all sweet, charming and added their own touch of warmth.

Say No to Mistletoe was a sweet romance story of the boy next door and how a simple misunderstanding and miscommunication added to missed years but the reconciliation and romance was even sweeter now. This was my second favourite of the series and I loved the male lead Carwyn.

The third story stood out for me with its Irish hints and male character with the adorable Irish accent. I enjoyed this romance between older characters.

The Mistletoe Prince was by far my favourite in the series. I loved the banter between the characters and how the prince just had to overcome challenges and have someone believe again to bring out the prince charming. I was sad to see this one end.

A sweet, warm collection of novellas if you need something short to read.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


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About the book:

Like walking onto the set of your favorite Hallmark Christmas movie, Mistletoe Season invites readers to fall in love alongside three couples, featuring old flames, opposites attract, and even a royal romance.

Say No to Mistletoe by Sheila Roberts

Mistletoe is Hailey Fairchild's kryptonite. Every time she's kissed someone under the mistletoe it's led to love disaster. Not a good thing for a romance writer! When she was a gawky high school girl, her hunky neighbor, Carwyn Davies, star of the basketball team (and her dreams), kissed her under the mistletoe on a dare. But the kiss wasn't a dream come true. It was a mortifying moment she's never forgotten, and now she's about to go home for the holidays, unengaged and . . . determined to say no to mistletoe. Especially if Carwyn is anywhere around.

Return to Mistletoe by Kathleen Fuller

Emmy Banks has always loved Christmas. How could she not when she lives in Mistletoe, Missouri? Kieran O'Neill has spent years abroad, renovating an old Irish castle, but returns to Mistletoe for his mother's seventieth birthday. He reconnects with Emmy, his sister's close friend, and spends time with her in her charming antique shop. When the weather turns colder, things start to warm up between Emmy and Kieran. But can Emmy risk her heart when she knows he'll never stay in Mistletoe and she'll never leave?

The Mistletoe Prince by Pepper Basham

Prince Arran St. Clare has lost his freedom and fairytale life in exchange for a three-month "punishment" in the small town of Ransom, North Carolina. To prove he is ready for the royal life for which he was born, Arran must engage in the Christmas charity fundraiser, The Mistletoe Wish. But when kindness, authenticity, and hard work prove more appreciated in Appalachia than a royal pedigree, Arran must face the mirror and find out who he is beyond the crown. Add a beautiful and intelligent woman who doesn't recognize her own worth, some mistletoe, and a little Christmas magic, and it all might be enough to help the rebel-prince understand what truly matters most.

Featuring three separate stories, Mistletoe Season is the perfect escape from a bustling Christmas season. Pull up a cozy blanket, fix yourself a warm drink, and set yourself up by the fire to enjoy three delightful, low-spice romances.

Review: Beneath a Peaceful Moon

Beneath a Peaceful Moon by Debby Lee
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

From the first sentence in Beneath a Peaceful Moon, my attention was grabbed by a strong, independent female lead, who was seeking answers about her lost brother, struggling to fight the advance of a man abusing his power, and a friendship turning into a beautiful relationship.

The suspense of the raging war and wondering if my favourite soldier will return home safely, as well as the internal fight of Mary to perform her spy duties, being honest in her growing relationship with John and her desire to find her brother kept me on the edge of my seat and flipping pages to see what will happen next.

I also loved how the Greene brothers played important roles in John and Mary's story.

This was another intriguing, mysterious installment in the Heroines of WW2 series.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


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About the book:

Mary’s Language Skills Could Help End the War in the Pacific
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
 
Mary Wishram, an orphaned Yakima tribal member, aches for her brother who suffers in a POW camp in the Philippine Islands and her Japanese friends who languish in a relocation center. Determined to end the war by any means necessary, she employs her language skills to become a spy. Leaving Camp Pendleton for the South Pacific, she faces escalating threats of peril to help bring her loved ones home.
 
John Painted Horse, a proud Navajo, struggles with the loss of his father who died in WWI for a country that didn’t consider him a United States citizen. Though his home state doesn’t offer him the right to vote, he joins the Code Talker program at Camp Pendleton. Thrust into mounting danger in the South Pacific, he hopes to bring long overdue recognition and honor to his people, no matter the cost.
 
Will these two wounded souls find healing from their past traumas and a deeper relationship with God, before it’s too late? Or will they lose their chance at love, and everything they hold dear?