The Eyes of River Review

About the Book

 In the shadowed hollers of the early-twentieth-century Appalachian Mountains, Lizzy Haney is on the run.

She's been falsely accused of murder and is desperate to reunite with her brother, River, whose unforgettable green eyes haunt her. The secret in her past is a stinging wound, but it motivates her toward her freedom.

But nine-year-old River, sent through the United States Post Office to his late mother's friend in Knoxville, never arrived. Lizzy's dream of finding him and starting a new life away from their alcoholic and abusive father is ripped away.

Her hope rekindles as she finds an unexpected confidant to help her dodge the law and save the missing youngin'. As she finds herself trusting him, she discovers the truth of the old adage her momma And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (Goodreads)

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

I really enjoy books by this author and this one is no exception. She writes with such authenticity and deals with some hard topics. This story isn't necessarily easy to read due to the entire plot point. Lizzy is accused of murder and her brother is sent away to protect him from an abusive father. While not terribly graphic, the author doesn't shy away from tough scenes. So it is difficult read at times but weaved in is a lot of growth and grace. There are some twists and turns that I didn't love and some of the secondary characters act a bit harsh from what I would prefer toward Lizzy but overall I enjoyed this Appalachian novel!

Four Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."  

Birds On A Wire

About the Book

 A deeply moving contemporary story about family and foster care from a two-time Christy Award-winning author

When her newborn son, Providence, is taken by CPS, eighteen-year-old Bri Marshall is determined to do whatever's necessary to get him back—with or without Providence's father. But hurdles like no job, car, or family support complicate the process. Bri never expected to sink this low. What will it take to hold her baby in her arms again?

Thirty-nine-year-old Laura Gambler, facing the big 4-0, is managing new challenges with her own children when she's asked to take in baby Providence. She could never have imagined the chain of events that agreeing to foster would set in motion—or the carefully buried pain from her past it would drag back to the surface.

Both women wrestle with doubts about the future and their ability to parent Providence, even as their love for him grows stronger every day. As their lives become irrevocably intertwined, the two very different women face the same impossible question: Who is the best mother for Providence? (Goodreads)

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

I don't know much of anything about foster care. I started this book with a very open mind and knew if anyone could write a book about this topic it would be Powner. While I understand that the story within the pages of this book doesn't reflect every child or placement situation, it sheds an incredible light into the lives from both sides of the system. This story deals with the raw hard things and is written in such a way that I couldn't set the book down. The author doesn't shy away from the typical family issues of teenagers, school troubles, in laws, or difficult parents and siblings. It also doesn't shy away from the foster parent point of view that has many trapped in a cycle that rules their lives. This story is beautifully told and it really isn't about "who gets the baby" it is about what happens in the middle of it all. For me, it is about how we can and should react to others regardless of living conditions. It is about being authentic when life gets hard and being honest with yourself during those times. I absolutely love this story and it is easily one of my favorite books of the year. I highly recommend!

Five Stars. 

 "I received a complimentary copy from Kregel. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

The Hidden Key of Brooke Sumner

About the Book

 Will the key unlock more than a vault filled with treasure?

Brooke Sumner has been carefully avoiding Storm Whitlock ever since he betrayed her trust. When he joins Caspar's mysterious treasure-hunting group, she steps away to focus on her antique shop and keep herself busy.

Then Caspar invites her back for one final assignment, and Brooke is torn. Returning to Halstead Manor to help the team find the second half of a key is intriguing. It also means she'd be working with Storm. But she doesn't trust his motives, so she reluctantly rejoins to keep him in check.

As they dive into their expedition, Brooke finds her heart softening toward those she'd once held at arm's length. And is it possible she misunderstood Storm's betrayal of their friendship?

"In this friends-to-more romance, we get to see the beauty of being known, being loved, and finding the people who want to walk alongside us." —Toni Shiloh, Christy Award-winning author (Goodreads)

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

The Hidden Key of Brooke Sumner is the newest story for this trilogy. 
This book wraps up a lot of loose ends and gives an excellent ending to this series.
I think Brooke might be my favorite character from the series so I really enjoyed this one. The romance is fun and it takes a long while to fully understand Brooke and Storm's past history. Something put a wedge between them and the author doesn't give away details until much later. The characters grow a lot over the course of the chapters of this story and it was a fun mystery romance. 

Four Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from Kregel. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton

 

About the Book

In her search for a rare gem, will Everleigh end up uncovering the true treasure of her heart?

Personal care nurse Everleigh Wheaton knows it only takes a few well-placed lies to ruin a reputation. She's experienced it time and time again. But there's a silver lining to repeatedly proving she's confident and self-reliant.

When she loses yet another job and an enigmatic stranger offers her a potential way out, she's game. After all, she loves a good mystery, and an invitation to visit the legendary Halstead Manor is irresistible. But she's not about to let her guard down--especially with the other women who received the same invitation.

A strange voice on the phone tells them he's gathered the three of them to work together as treasure hunters. The first assignment requires Everleigh to be a traveling nurse for retired FBI agent Gertrude Levine, who has one cold case she just can't let go the Florentine diamond that went missing when the Austrian Empire fell.

With Everleigh's keen ability to solve puzzles, Natalie Daughtry's vast knowledge of history, and Brooke Sumner's connections to the antiques world, they're bound to track down the diamond. Except that Gertie's nephew, Niles Butler, doesn't trust Everleigh's innocent act . . . even if he finds himself falling for her. Worse, Everleigh's walls of self-preservation may doom the entire team.

Hints of real-life historical events combined with contemporary characters make this first book in the Treasures of Halstead Manor series a masterful blend of romance, mystery, and strong female friendships. Readers of authors like Denise Hunter and Nicole Deese who enjoy unfolding relationships and the organic discovery of God's love will relish this new series. (Goodreads)

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

I enjoyed this one simply because of the characters. The mystery didn't totally suck me in but the lives of the people sleuthing had my attention. In looking for a missing jewel there are some clever clues and history that are also fun additions. The romance is well written with lots of banter. There is a person holding all of the strings to this group of people and I am thinking there is more to this "Casper" so while there isn't really a cliffhanger it is clear there is more to discover with each of the ladies that are investigating. For a quick read this is a fun romantic mystery. 

Four Stars. 

Book three comes out March 24th and is called The Hidden Key of Brooke Sumner.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

The Beginning of You

 

About the Book

God added your smile

and filled you with love.

From your head to your toes,

you're a gift from above.

This precious keepsake will teach toddlers how God intentionally created them and just how much their caregivers love them. Little ones will discover how each part of their bodies—from their nose to their toes—was perfectly designed by God, who formed them with tender care.

With rhyming text and colorful illustrations, this sweet board book is ideal for parents and caregivers to read with the child in their lap as an interactive experience. As kids like them are depicted smelling cookies and flowers, hearing a train and a plane, and jumping and running, children will begin to learn where their noses are, where their ears are, what their legs do, and more! (Amazon)

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

This is a cute little board book for littles. I would say from about newborn to 2 years old this would be a great book to add to your collection. My little boy enjoys looking at it and it is a great reminder that God knit them together and He even knows how many hairs are on their head. It can be challenging to find books that present God in such a way so this is a special little book. It would make a great gift! 

Five Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

What Is Left of the Night Review

About the Book

 Based on a true story

The Nazi regime's bloody wake in Europe persists as they brutally send "undesirables" to their deaths in concentration camps. As a young Jew, Hannah leaves behind her mother and sister as she flees certain death, arriving in Le Chambon in search of refuge.

Driven by their deeply rooted faith in God, Protestant pastor André Trocmé and his formidable wife, Magda, have turned the unassuming community in the foothills of the French Alps into a quiet resistance—a haven where they shelter escapees from Hitler's ever-tightening fist. It’s here that an author pens his Nobel Prize-winning novel and finds answers to his questions about God; and just outside the village borders, a one-legged female American spy sets up an operation to organize the French Resistance.

But a sadistic crew is on the rise. Under the supervision of the Butcher of Lyon, Gestapo officer Herr Lauer pursues the Jewish girl. Hannah was in his sights, but when she evaded him, his explosive rage and thirst for revenge set him on a spiraling mission to track her down—leading him straight to Le Chambon.

With lyrical prose and historical accuracy, Mark Buchanan weaves together a thrilling narrative from the real-life stories of a pastor, refugee, spy, and author, tangled together in a plot against the Reich. (Goodreads)


Pre -Order Here

My Thoughts

Oh my goodness this story. It is one that (for me) needs read slowly so as not to miss the pieces of wisdom thrown in. I loved reading from the standpoint of a pacifist but also just the view of a pastor. There are multiple perspectives that go back and forth throughout the novel and Hannah and the pastor's storylines are my favorite. This book will really make you think and it is different from other WWII books that I have read. There is some humor sprinkled in and also details of a terrible war. This book has a lot of grit and some of it portrays the darkness. It isn't gory and explicit but still tough to read at times. There is family and fear and joy and life and death. The marriage between André and Magda is so well written. The people in this story are not written to be perfect and that made me love it all the more. This is based on a true story and I really appreciated the author explaining details based on what is fact and fiction. This is a fiction read but incredibly based on a true story. I had no idea Le Chambon existed or that this village saved thousands of Jewish refugees! It is a fascinating read and I highly recommend it! 

Five Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

An Appearance of Impropriety

About the Book

 As the youngest female judge in LA, Mahalia Jackson has her career goals carefully aligned. But when her mentor tells her she needs to break her shell of professionalism and show a little heart by volunteering for the Junior Jurors program, her plans begin to falter.

Attorney JD Cash heads up the Junior Jurors program, a project born out of his own troubled past. He leverages his position as an attorney to fulfill God's calling on his life, supporting the orphans and widows of society who have lost beloved husbands and fathers to TransNation's eighteen-wheeled time bombs roaming America's freeways.

Mahalia's rule—never date a lawyer—is a straitjacket that tightens when she presides over the case where JD serves as a young widow's attorney. But when an earthquake leaves JD and Mahalia in a vulnerable position, her resolve begins to waver and she finds herself opening up to the sad-eyed lawyer. But online, anonymous colleagues and adversaries attempt to destroy Mahalia’s reputation and career.

A legal drama threaded with romance, An Appearance of Impropriety will show readers that real love is worth the risk. (Goodreads)

Order Here!

My Thoughts

I have not read a legal drama in quite a while and sometimes it is nice to read something different! I really love Mahalia's character. She shines throughout this entire novel and we need more female characters like her! The legal stuff at times goes over my head but I felt like I was there in the thick of things. I love JD's backstory and how he grows throughout the pages. There are some tough topics brought up and the author handles them with grace but honesty. The romance is realistic and shows how flawed we are and how we can change and grow. Overall I enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to the next books this author writes. 

Four stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from Kregel. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own."

Echoes of a Silent Song

 

About the Book

A split-time romance from an award-winning author

When a choral composer and conductor falls victim to creative block, he resorts to his fallback plan of teaching high school choir. Callum Knight's goal at Peterson High is rediscover his muse, extract himself from teaching, and get back to Boston as quickly as possible.

As the long-suffering accompanist at the high school, Peterson-native Blair Emerson has watched the revolving door of choir directors and their negative impact on her choirs over the last few years. She is less than impressed when a disheveled Callum stumbles in on his first day.

But then they discover an unsigned, unfinished, and handwritten choral composition by a clear musical genius. Blair recalls rumors of Iris, a Peterson student from the 1970s who composed music but was found dead during her senior year. Blair and Callum work to determine if the piece is hers, and the truth they uncover shakes both of them to the core.

With rhythm and flair, Amanda Wen takes readers on an unexpected journey into the depths of a small town's history in this riveting first book in the Melodies and Memories duology. (Goodreads) 

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

This story completely stunned me. To be honest, I really wasn't sure what to expect and I was anticipating a slower read. Oh my goodness. I couldn't put this book down and it has become one of my favorite reads of the year! The characters of Callum and Blair gripped me from the start. They have dealt with real life issues and struggle to find a common ground. In comes the split time story going back in time to the life of Iris, a student. I adored both timelines and that rarely happens. The story flows nicely between the two and the romance is *chef's kiss*. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat and by the end I was happy, sad, and contemplative. I think some of the suspense elements perhaps could have been written out a little bit more and further developed but I still think it was a great addition. I love this story and I highly recommend! 

*I will caution that there are some tough topics discussed such as suicide, Vietnam war, and depression. 

Five Stars!

"I received a complimentary copy of the book from Kregel Publications. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

My First 100 Bible Words Board Book

About the Book

 A way for toddlers to learn their first words through beloved Bible stories

My First 100 Bible Words introduces children to Bible stories and language at the same time. Little ones will learn words for colors, animals, objects, shapes, numbers, emotions, and more!

Toddlers will discover language and faith through memorable Bible scenes like Noah's ark, Moses and the burning bush, David and Goliath, Daniel and the lions, and more, all the way to Jesus's birth.

The bright colors and simple stories will capture a toddler's attention and guide them from creation to Jesus.

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

This is such a great board book! My toddler instantly was interested in this because of the bright colors and pictures. It takes you through the main Bible stories and some pages have counting words (Daniel and the Lions), colors (Genesis), food (the Last Supper), etc. Each topic includes the Bible verses and references so you can look it up in the Bible to go along with the book if you wanted. It is a sturdy board book that can withstand care of a toddler. It states that it is good for ages 0-2 but I would say even older. This would make a great gift or addition to your board book library. I highly recommend! 

Five Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from Kregel. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

A Scheming in Parliament Review + Giveaway

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Scheming in Parliament by Erica Vetsch hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: A Scheming in Parliament 

Series: Of Cloaks & Daggers #2 

Author: Erica Vetsch 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: August 26, 2025 

Genre: Regency Mystery Romance 

 Evil is masquerading in the halls of Parliament, and Sir Bertrand Thorndike is tasked with investigating from the inside. With his new position as a member of the House of Commons, he has access to the power brokers of English government. His tactic is to listen and learn, careful not to reveal his true motives, and he's quickly inducted into the mysterious Theban Club. 

Miss Philippa Cashel's mission, the Princess Charlotte Eleos School for Women in Need, is thriving with donations, and the students are learning skills to help them earn their livings in honorable ways. But when a dear friend's past is revealed by blackmail, Philippa must wrestle with the question, Is it ever right to do the wrong thing? 

Bertie's and Philippa's missions collide when Bertie uncovers a dangerous plot involving vulnerable women. He and Philippa join forces against the corruption threatening to topple England's government, all while navigating their outward reputations and inward feelings for each other.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

More in this Series:

---

About the Author

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota. Learn more about Erica at ericavetsch.com.

Connect with Erica by visiting ericavetsch.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Scheming in Parliament and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 3, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 10, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

---

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

 My Thoughts

This is the second book of this series and I recommend you read book one first. I was eager to see where we would find Philippa and Bertie and I was delighted to find them amidst mystery once again! Many things are afoot and there is an interesting blackmail situation that carries through. There is also a delightful goat scene that made me giggle, along with a very subtle and light romance thread. I am very curious on what happens in the next book with how things are left in the last chapter..no spoilers here but eek!! Truly the best part of this story is not only Philippa's redemption from her past, but how it carries forward in how she helps others. She shines such a light on how God makes us new, even after we have lived in such darkness. He is the only One who can do this and it is so evident in Philippa's own life. I love how God's grace is portrayed in these novels and it really adds to the storyline. 

I enjoyed this book and I look forward to the next!

Four Stars.

"I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own."

A Thieving at Carlton House Review

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Thieving at Carlton House by Erica Vetsch hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Thieving at Carlton House 

Series: Of Cloaks & Daggers #1 

Author: Erica Vetsch 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: September 17, 2024 

Genre: Regency Mystery Romance

Unlikely alliances form when a killer is on the loose... but who can be trusted?

The Home Office has asked Sir Bertrand Thorndike to head an investigation into stolen royal jewels. And as with everything concerning the Prince Regent, discretion is paramount. 

It's the perfect chance for Bertie to step out of his brother's long shadow. Unfortunately, his superior, The Duke of Haverly, has a plan that makes him balk: in order to sell his cover, Bertie must play the part of a man looking for love, ready to reform his rakish ways. The duke is willing to let Bertie name his own investigative team, but his recommendation that the team include 

Philippa Cashel has Bertie on his guard. Does the duke--known for his behind-the-scenes machinations--have an ulterior motive? Philippa Cashel escaped her life as one of society's best-known courtesans, devoting her life to helping other women in dire straits. So when Sir Bertrand Thorndike approaches her about joining his team as an agent of the Crown, she is skeptical. Why her? She's focused on getting her school for underprivileged women up and running, not in cloak-and-dagger skullduggery. Her hope is that if she labors hard enough at her charity work, she might begin to feel worthy of God's forgiveness of her past. 

When one of Philippa's rescued girls is arrested for stealing the royal jewels and another is murdered, Philippa will risk partnering with Bertie to find the loot and stop the killer. 

Two brilliant minds--with two wary hearts--and one cunning deceiver are on a collision course in Regency England. 

Beloved Regency author Erica Vetsch begins this new series with all the elements that keep her readers coming back. From historical accuracy to rousing mystery to deep character faith journeys, A Thieving at Carlton House will please Regency lovers--and anyone else who loves a great story.

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

Also Available:

---

About the Author

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.

Connect with Erica by visiting ericavetsch.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of A Thieving at Carlton House and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 16, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 23, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. International prize ebook and egift card. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

---

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

My Thoughts

I am so excited about this new series! While there are ties to the authors previous books (and a really awesome family tree in this book!) you can read this one as a stand alone. BUT it is fun to tie all of the people together from her previous books if you want to read those at some point. This story is really great and I love Philippa Cashel's character. As a previous courtesan (prostitute), Philippa has quite a story of redemption and forgiveness that carries over into her desire to help others. There is terrific mystery and intrigue throughout this novel that I found to be well written. Personally I thought it was a bit obvious about half way through who the "bad guy" was but the details and the "why" didn't fully make sense until the end. There is a lot going on in this book and the reader really has to pay attention to fully grasp the story lines and different characters. I bet I could read it again and find things I missed the first time around! All that to say this is an enjoyable read and I highly recommend to those who enjoy a little mystery set during the Regency time period in England!

Four Stars. 

"I received this book from Kregel Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Coal Black Lies Review

About the Book

 Believing the bitter lies you tell yourself leaves little room for the sweetness of truth

Coal miner Joshua Morgan managed to do the impossible--he broke away from the stranglehold of the iron-fisted Barton family and the Company Store, to whom all the miners in the Appalachian Mountains are indebted. But it cost him the life of his young daughter, who was run down by a posse led by Thomas Barton while coming to collect Joshua's payment to the store.

Five years later, a sweet but slow-witted young girl lands on his doorstep, and Joshua’s desire to protect her from the clutches of the Bartons increases his thirst for vengeance. Joshua sets out to discover where the girl came from in order to take down the Barton family once and for all.

His journey leads him to the truth about the day his daughter died, a reality he finds hard to accept. But when confronted by Thomas Barton himself, Joshua is forced to rethink the dark lies brewing in his heart. If he broke away, could Thomas have also? Despite his misgivings, can Joshua join forces with a man he once despised to free the miners from the tyrannical Barton family and forge a future of peace for both the young girl and himself? (Goodreads)

BUY HERE

My Thoughts

Every book by this author tackles subjects you least expect and this one is no exception. This story takes you right into the heart of Appalachia and the hard life of those that lived there in coal country. There is heartbreak and bitterness that comes with death right from the first page. The anger and jealousy and greed for money seeps through the pages as the bad guys try to destroy a family just trying to survive. A young girl who we would consider special needs today is one of the best characters in this book and the author did an excellent job in writing this plot line. There are so many wonderful things that make this book what it is but overall it shows the human condition and struggles and how hard it is to move on and forgive and cling to Jesus. I found it to be quite the page turner because there is a bit of mystery and trouble within the pages and the ending has a twist you might not see coming. 

The author doesn't shy away from the dark things but I would still consider it a "clean" read. 

I highly recommend! 

Five Stars. 

"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."