My Review

Chancing the Frontiersman’s Heart. By Andrea Byrd is the first book in the Wilderness Romance series. This story is set in the Kentucky Territory in 1782. The McFadin family is traveling with a group to claim the land they were given for fighting in the war. One particular person grabs the attention of youngest brother, Jacob. Clothed in a cloak to hide her deformity, he finds out she is his best friend that left without notice years earlier.

This story is so good. It is well written and is easy to read and get lost in. I enjoy how the theme of family, second chances and having faith are woven throughout the story. This is a wonderful story that reminds the reader God is in control and things happen for the best, on His time. I love how Jacob and Dawn treasured their past friendship and are given a chance to start over.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book; this is my honest review.

About the Book

Book: Chancing the Frontiersman’s Heart

Author: Andrea Byrd

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: March 24, 2026

From Andrea Byrd comes a stirring tale of faith and courage on the Kentucky frontier—a story of second chances, steadfast love, and the family bonds that sustain us through life’s darkest hours. Perfect for fans of Lori Wick and Janette Oke.

Kentucky Territory, 1782

When Dawn agrees to travel west with her cruel stepparents, she has one goal—to reunite her young stepsister Mary with her uncle at Bryan’s Station. But a chance encounter with Jacob McFadin, her childhood sweetheart, changes everything. Despite her missing left hand and the scars of rejection she carries, Jacob sees past her differences and offers marriage to help protect them on their journey.

Jacob has spent years trying to prove himself as more than just the youngest McFadin brother. When he recognizes Dawn, the girl who captured his heart years ago, he knows God has given him a second chance. But his desire to finally make a name for himself threatens to tear apart their fragile new family.

As they face the perils of the Kentucky wilderness and escalating tensions with British and Indian forces, Dawn and Jacob must learn to trust in God’s plan—and each other. When violence erupts at Bryan’s Station, they discover that true worth isn’t found in grand achievements, but in the boundless love of family and faith.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Andrea Byrd is a small-town wife and mom from southern Kentucky who harbors a deep love of days gone by, expressed with pioneer skirts and a once-in-a-lifetime ride in an authentic biplane. She seeks to respect the past, giving voice to those that came before, while reminding readers that no aspect of their past defines them.

More from Andrea

As a reader of historical fiction, I love reaching the end of a novel and reading the author’s note to learn how real people and events inspired the written words. Now, as an author myself, I try to provide the same for my own readers and Chancing the Frontiersman’s Heart is no exception.

While the Siege of Yorktown is considered the last major battle of the revolutionary war, ten months afterward, American forces would suffer great losses at the Battle of Blue Licks. During this conflict, more than sixty Kentuckians would lose their lives.

However, what intrigued me most about this piece of American history was actually the events leading up to it. The Battle of Blue Licks was a result of a skirmish a few days prior: the Siege of Bryan’s Station. In what is now Lexington, Kentucky, a fortified settlement was attacked by Delaware and Shawnee warriors, as well as Canadian Rangers.

Playing a vital part in the station’s ability to withstand the attack, of course, were the women of Bryan’s Station. During this conflict, the women would do more than simply provide support though. They would put themselves directly in harm’s way, venturing outside the safety of the settlement walls, in order to fetch water from the spring. Though Bryan’s Station was surrounded and they could be descended upon the moment they left the fold, the women (and girls) marched forwarded with heads held high to do what had to be done.

As soon as I learned of the women of Bryan’s Station and their act of bravery, I knew I had to weave these historical events into this novel. I hope you find their story as inspiring as I did!

Happy Reading!

Andrea Byrd

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, March 28

Books Less Travelled, March 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 30

Bizwings Blog, March 30

lakesidelivingsite, March 31

Sylvan Musings, April 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 2

Devoted To Hope, April 3

For Him and My Family, April 3

Abba’s Warrior Princess, April 4

Life on Chickadee Lane, April 5

Bigreadersite, April 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 7

Mary Hake, April 7

Fruitfully Planted, April 8

Holly’s Book Corner, April 8

Lyssa Loves Books, April 9

Books You Can Feel Good About, April 10

Pause for Tales, April 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Andrea is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/KhGOn/chancing-the-frontiersmans-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Review

With The Enduring tides is Jane Kirkpatrick’s second book in The Women of Cannon Beach Series. Having not read the first in the series, I was able to read and follow along with this story very nicely. The story is well written and has the theme of family and community running throughout it. I enjoyed the wonderful characters in this story. They are hardworking, caring people who are easy to like. I enjoyed reading of how Mary sets out alone to deliver mail while leaving her family behind. I found the story inspirational with Belle moving to be with her grandparents to attend school there, yet she helped in time of need. It is interesting to see how the different women’s lives blend together and how they help and care for each other. I especially enjoyed reading of the different situations the women are in and how they deal with caring for friends and extended family.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

A Story of Resilience, Redemption, and Friendships That Endure

On the rugged Oregon coast in the early 1900s, the lives of a group of women intertwine through their shared pioneering spirit and the steadfast presence of Mary Gerritse. Struggling with her daughter Belle’s desire to live with her grandparents, Mary discovers her own mother facing illness and her father hiring a caretaker with a troubled past. Despite tensions, Mary leaves Belle with her grandparents, feeling guilt and uncertainty. When past secrets bubble over into trouble in the present, Mary’s identity is shaken.

As Mary seeks to heal her family–and herself–her friends provide comfort even as they face challenges of their own: Jewell explores questions about her own identity, Henrietta navigates managing a homestead, Virginia seeks refuge from an abusive situation, and Olivia faces the heartache of lost love. The women must endure to find encouragement in each other and refuge in the faith that brings strength amid great uncertainty.

“Kirkpatrick’s sense of time and place and her understanding of the trials of women of another century have made her one of the West’s most beloved writers.”–Sandra Dallas, New York Times bestselling author

Inspired by a true story, this heartwarming tale of female friendship, family reconciliation, and pioneering spirit set on the Oregon coast explores themes of identity, forgiveness, and finding strength through faith and community in early 1900s American West.

About the Author

A New York Times Bestselling author, Jane Kirkpatrick’s works have appeared in more than 50 national publications including The Oregonian, Private Pilot and Daily Guideposts. With more than 1.5 million books in print, her 30 novels and non-fiction titles draw readers from all ages and genders. Most are historical novels based on the lives of actual historical women often about ordinary women who lived extraordinary lives. Her works have won numerous national awards including the WILLA Literary Award, the Carol Award, USABestBooks.com, Will Roger’s Medallion Award and in 1996, her first novel, A Sweetness to the Soul, won the prestigious Wrangler Award from the Western Heritage and National Cowboy Museum. Her novels have also been finalists for the Spur Award, the Oregon Book Award, the Christy, Reader’s Choice and the WILLA in both fiction and non-fiction. Several titles have been Literary Guild and Book of the Month choices and been on the bestsellers list for independent bookstores across the country, in the Pacific Northwest and the Christian Booksellers Association. Her books have been translated into German, Dutch, Finnish and Chinese. You can learn more about her and books she has written at: http://jkbooks.com/

Where to Purchase

With the Enduring Tides by Jane Kirkpatrick, Paperback | Barnes & Noble®

Amazon.com: With the Enduring Tides: Inspirational Pioneer Historical Women’s Fiction Set in 20th Century Pacific Northwest America (The Women of Cannon Beach): 9780800746100: Jane Kirkpatrick: Books

My Review

Harbor Point, by Irene Hannon, is the twelfth book in the Hope Harbor series. While this is part of a series and characters are mentioned from previous books, the book is also a good stand alone story. Devyn rushes back to Hope Harbor when her sister is seriously injured. Having extended time off, she stays to help her sister and gets involved in a community show helping with choreography. Aaron recently lost his wife and is living with his young daughter and his grandfather. His grandfather and daughter are in the show, where he meets Devyn.

This is such a good story. I love how well the family dynamics are written into the story and how the two sisters are able to honestly communicate. I enjoy how situations arise that give Devyn options for moving forward with her life. This is a nicely written inspirational story that is easy to read and get lost in. I always enjoy having the taco man and the seagulls in the story as well.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book; this is my honest review.

About the Book

When life throws you off pointe, love helps you find your balance.

As a principal dancer with a prestigious New York ballet company, Devyn Lee is far from her hometown of Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast. But when a family emergency compels her to return, her visit turns into an extended stay after complications arise.

Widowed mill worker Aaron Steele pays no attention to the buzz in Hope Harbor about the famous dancer in town. Until his grieving nine-year-old daughter takes a fancy to Devyn after she agrees to help with a fundraising show for a local charity in which the young girl is performing. As the show–and Devyn–begin to lift his daughter’s spirits, his own life is brightened by the beautiful ballerina as she slowly but surely captures his heart.

But what are the odds that such an accomplished, polished woman from the city could ever fall for a small-town lumberman with two left feet?

Come home to Hope Harbor–where hearts heal . . . and love blooms.

About the Author

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA’s elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work.

Where to Purchase

Harbor Pointe (Hope Harbor Series #12) by Irene Hannon, Paperback | Barnes & Noble®

Harbor Pointe: Small Town Contemporary Opposites Attract Clean Romance with a Ballerina and a Single Dad: Irene Hannon: 9780800747596: Amazon.com: Books

My Review

Mail-Order Baroness by Misty M. Beller is book 2 of Lords of the Rockies series. The brothers have decided their house keeper needs help. James immediately thinks of Rose, the daughter of their mothers lady’s helper. Rose has been under the rule of her step father to repay him for her mother’s expenses and leaps at a chance to take a job she sees in the paper.

This is a nice series that is well written with wonderful characters. I enjoy the brothers who are making lives for themselves in Montana despite their royal standings. The brothers are honest, hardworking and caring men. This is a nice story to read with the mystery surrounding things that happened in the past. I enjoyed the mild suspense with Rose fleeing and the brothers keeping her safe. I enjoyed how James and Rose both turned to prayer to find each other.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this story, this is my honest review.

About the Book

Book: Mail-Order Baroness

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: February 10, 2026

Five sons of an English duke, all raised in the Rocky Mountains…

James Balfour, the charming middle son of an English duke, is determined to prove he’s capable of taking leadership of his family’s Montana ranch as the next deadly winter approaches. With the household stretched to its limits, James crafts a clever plan to hire Rose Prescott—his childhood best friend—and to right an old wrong.

Rose’s remarkable singing voice was meant to be her gift, but in Virginia City, it’s become her curse. Forced by her stepfather to perform nightly shows, she dreams of escape and a life free from his control. When a newspaper ad for a housekeeper offers her a way out, she risks everything and flees, hoping her stepfather can’t find her. She never expected to return to the Balfour ranch, nor to see James again, whose charm now reminds her too much of the men who’ve betrayed her before.

James’s desire to protect Rose is shaken when his old friend treats him like an enemy. Winning her trust becomes his greatest challenge yet. As tensions rise on the ranch, old secrets and new dangers threaten everything James and his family have built.

With enemies closing in, Rose must decide whom she can trust—and whether she’s willing to fight for the freedom and love she’s always longed for.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a royal family saga featuring a mail-order bride, a second chance romance, and an aristocratic marriage of convenience…all set in the rugged Montana Territory.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Misty M. Beller is an ECPA and USA Today bestselling author with over 1 million books sold. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

More from Misty

Hello Reader Friends!

I’m so excited to be back with you in the Lords of the Rockies world—where Regency roots and Montana grit collide in the best kind of way.

When I first dreamed up this series, I couldn’t stop thinking about what would happen if five sons of an English duke were raised far from ballrooms and titled expectations…out in the wide-open wilderness instead. No polished drawing rooms. No London Season. Just rugged mountains, hard work, and the kind of faith that’s tested (and strengthened) when survival itself requires perseverance.

And now I’m thrilled to share the newest installment with you…

Welcome to Mail-Order Baroness!

One of my favorite things about writing romance is getting to explore the truth that God is always in the business of redemption—of taking what’s been broken and offering something new. That’s one reason I especially love the second-chance romance trope.

There’s just something so moving about two people who have already been hurt—by life, by circumstances, sometimes even by each other—and yet are given an unexpected opportunity to try again. Not because everything is suddenly easy, but because they’re different now. Wiser. Humbled. More aware of what truly matters.

In Mail-Order Baroness, you’ll find a love story rooted in that kind of hope—the kind that doesn’t ignore the past, but doesn’t let the past have the final word either.

If you enjoy stories with:

• old wounds that still ache
• hard-earned forgiveness
• trust rebuilt one choice at a time
• and the gentle reminder that God can restore what feels beyond saving

…then I think this one will tug at your heart.

At its core, this book is about a fresh start that doesn’t come from pretending yesterday didn’t happen—but from bravely stepping forward anyway, learning to hope again, and discovering that the Lord can write something beautiful even after disappointment.

I pray you love Mail-Order Baroness! J

Blessings!

Misty

Blog Stops

Sydney Schmied Books, March 14

Madi’s Musings, March 14

Pause for Tales, March 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 15

Holly’s Book Corner, March 15

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 16

Simple Harvest Reads, March 16 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 17

Texas Book-aholic, March 17

Slyvan Musings, March 18

Devoted To Hope, March 18

Melissa’s Bookshelf, March 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 19

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 20

She Lives To Read, March 21

For Him and My Family, March 21

Life on Chickadee Lane, March 22

Book Looks by Lisa, March 22

Cover Lover Book Review, March 22

lakesidelivingsite, March 23

Lyssa Loves Books, March 23

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 24

Fruitfully Planted, March 24

Books You Can Feel Good About, March 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 25

Connie’s History Classroom, March 26

Artistic Nobody, March 26 (Guest Review from Donna)

Blossoms and Blessings, March 27

Mary Hake, March 27

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/F0qYE/mail-order-baroness-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Review

The Lost Story of Via Belle, by Melanie Dobson is a dual timeline Christian story. Set in 1940 is author Via Belle as she adjusts to the loss of her husband and returns to writing. Shortly after getting married again, she disappears and no one knows what happened to her. In 2006 Harper is trying to find a way to write a script that will get accepted for a movie. After losing her job, she returns to her mother’s home town. While there she digs into the disappearance of Via Belle.

This story is a nicely written story that is filled with mystery. I enjoyed the mystery surrounding Via’s second husband’s family. I especially enjoyed the characters of his father and her aunt. I appreciate how they look out for their extended family and their devotion to them. I especially enjoyed how descriptive the writing is and the information it gives about the moonflower and it’s seeds.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this story; this is my honest review.

About the Book

Searching for a story to adapt for film, an aspiring screenwriter becomes captivated by a bestselling classic novel and the mysterious disappearance of the woman who wrote it.

1940. Via Belle’s sweet romance novels made readers believe in happily ever after. But Via’s reality was much more complicated. While her first husband was alive, her creativity thrived in a beautiful stone estate situated above a pristine lake and moonflower garden. After his tragic death and a whirlwind second marriage shrouded in secrets, Via vanished from public life, leaving behind a shadow of scandal . . . and her final story.

2006. Screenwriter Harper Rayne is desperate for a breakthrough, if only she can find the right story to tell. But when she digs into the life of her late mother’s favorite novelist, she never expects it to become personal. Drawn to the quaint Pennsylvania town where both her mother and Via once lived, Harper discovers more than a mystery to solve—she finds echoes of her own longing for love, healing, and home. As long-buried secrets come to light, Harper must decide if she’ll protect the past or rewrite this particular ending.

Described as a “powerhouse in dual-timeline Christian fiction” (Library Journal), Melanie Dobson delivers another rich, atmospheric novel about the legacy of sacrificial love and the redemptive power of truth.

• Standalone dual-timeline historical mystery filled with drama, faith, and intrigue
• Clean, suspenseful historical fiction, perfect for fans of Susan Meissner, Lisa Wingate, or Patti Callahan Henry
• Includes discussion questions for book groups

About the Author

Writing fiction is Melanie Dobson’s excuse to immerse herself in the past by reading old books, interviewing new friends, and exploring fascinating places around the world. She is the award-winning author of almost thirty historical, time-slip, and romantic suspense novels. Five of her novels (Memories of Glass, Chateau of Secrets, Catching the Wind, The Silent Order, and The Stranger) have received Carol Awards, and Catching the Wind received the Inspirational Fiction Audie Award and was a finalist for the Christy. The Black Cloister, her novel about a dangerous cult, was named the ForeWord Religious Fiction Book of the Year.

Melanie received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Liberty University and her master’s degree in communication from Regent University. Prior to her writing career, she was the corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family and owner of Dobson Media Group. When she’s not writing, Melanie enjoys teaching at writer’s events and as an adjunct professor.

Jon and Melanie Dobson live in the Pacific Northwest where Jon works at BibleProject. They have two daughters and enjoy traveling, hiking, and serving together in their community.

Where to Purchase

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-lost-story-of-via

The Lost Story of Via Belle – Kindle edition by Dobson, Melanie. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

My Review

The Spring in Trulee Holler by Jana Hutcheson is a Christian fiction story that borders on the fantasy genre. Silas has returned to Trulee Holler to find a certain plant. He rents a barn loft from Jess’s father while he searches. Silas grew up in the area many years earlier and drank water from a spring that stopped his aging. He feels the plant will reverse this. Meanwhile Jess lives with daily fear that her cancer will return. Jess finds out the truth of Silas and forces him to show her the spring.

While I don’t read fantasy, I found this story to be very good. I grabbed my attention at the very beginning and held it to the very end. I like how realistic the story is with Jess and her daily struggle with fear for her health. The story is so well written I found it very easy to read and imagine it.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book; this is my honest review.

About the Book

Jess Lockhart thought she’d fought her hardest battle when she beat a rare form of lymphoma. But months into remission, it’s fear of the unknown-especially of cancer’s return-that’s stealing her future. Once an aspiring fashion designer, she’s lost her drive to create and now spends her days working at her father’s hardware store in rural Trulee, Alabama.

When a young botanist rents the barn-loft apartment on her family’s property, Jess thinks she’s finally found something to take her mind off her mortality. Not only is Silas Haney strikingly handsome, but he’s irresistibly mysterious. His cryptic remarks and odd behavior suggest he’s hiding something. Then an accident exposes his secret: Silas once drank from a spring that made him immortal. Now he’s searching for the spring once more, hoping the tree that legend says grows from it can reverse the eternal youth he now sees as a curse. And that spring lies hidden in the woods behind her house.

Convinced the spring is the answer to her problems, Jess blackmails Silas into taking her along on his quest. But as forced companionship turns into affection, Jess begins to question whether escaping the fear of death is the same as truly living. When a crisis arises, Jess must decide: Will she trust God with her future or scoop destiny into her own hands?

About the Author

Jana Hutcheson lives and teaches in the same small Alabama town where she grew up. A public-school teacher for over thirty years, she holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees in elementary education from the University of North Alabama. The Spring in Trulee Holler is her debut novel. When she isn’t writing, she can usually be found taking long afternoon walks, reading on her patio bed swing, and spending time with her family.

Where to Purchase

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-spring-in-trulee-holler-jana-hutcheson/1149123052?ean=9798897470341

My Review

The Convict’s Courtship by KyLee Woodley is book three in the Outlaw Hearts series. Clara has made her way into a mine shaft dressed as a man to get a news story, when she is rescued by Beau. Helping her has cost him his job yet he is determined to see her safely home.

This is a nicely written story that has many twists and turns that keep the story interesting. I enjoyed having Beau as one of the main characters in this story as we have seen him change through the series. Beau and Clare are both strong, caring characters in this story. I enjoyed how determined Clare is to be a reporter in a time when it was not something women did. I enjoyed her strong, independent personality and her determination. I enjoyed the theme of redemption and forgiveness that is written through the story. The story also contains mystery and suspense with who killed Beau’s boss and who is causing problems for Beau. While this is part of a series and background information on Beau is in the first two book, the author does a fine job of bringing in the background information as the story develops.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this story, this is my honest review.

About the Book

Book: The Convict’s Courtship

Author: KyLee Woodley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: March 3, 2026

A remote mining town, an aspiring journalist, and the reformed convict who saves her life.

When Clara Alexander returned from finishing school to Virginia City she had two goals: to become a reporter and make peace with the father who betrayed her mother. But even in the West, there is no room for her in the newsroom or in the family her father made when he married his mistress. Clara is forced to take desperate measures to prove her worth to an editor—including a reckless venture into a dangerous mine shaft.

Reformed convict Beau Vulpe lives a quiet life of obscurity in a remote mining town in Nevada. When he rescues a beautiful woman from a sweltering mine shaft, he’s welcomed into her home as a hero, only to discover that they are the same family he deeply wronged the summer before. Now, with winter’s grip choking the mountain town and rumors of mines going bust, he is forced to stay, praying Clara won’t discover the truth before the spring thaw.

As Clara pursues her dreams of writing for the renowned Territorial Enterprise, she continually crosses paths with the mysterious Frenchman who saved her life and is drawn to him a little more with each interaction. Beau finds himself not only falling for the lovely lady but befriending her family as well. Can he protect his freedom and atone for his wrongs without losing his heart in the process? And what about Clara—will her attraction toward Beau Vulpe lead to the disappointment her mother warned her about?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

KyLee Woodley is a cheery romantic who loves to write about bygone days and heartwarming romance with a pinch of adventure. She teaches preschool at a lab school in Texas, where she lives with her husband of eighteen years and their three teenage children. On weekends, KyLee cohosts and produces the Historical Bookworm Show, a steadily growing author interview podcast for history lovers and readers of historical fiction.

In her spare time, she cares for a rescue mutt—Lucky Dog—a feisty feline named Hazel, and three adorable Boston Terrier puppies. She listens to Cricket Country and K-Love radio, reads classic books with her children, and watches Marvel movies with her husband, who might resemble Superman.

More from KyLee

A Heart in Exile: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Heroine

We all carry “wounds”—those hurts from our past that shape how we see the world today. For Clara, my heroine in The Convict’s Courtship, that wound is deep and it’s personal.

In her youth, Clara loved to write fanciful stories. With a love of history and a strong faith in God, she strove as a teen to write Bible studies for young ladies. But she comes from a troubled home, the daughter of an impulsive father and a mother she believes died of a broken heart after her father’s betrayal. Weeks after her mother’s death, her father married his mistress, who gave birth to a baby boy just months later. At this point, a sixteen-year-old Clara hoped they might finally be a family, only to be sent away to an elite boarding school—Miss Porter’s School. This was the same prestigious school attended by Nellie Grant, President Grant’s daughter. Everyone said her father sent her there out of love, but Clara knew better. It was time for Clara to grow up.

During her time in the East, she discovered the pioneering work of 19th-century female journalists and activists like Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Jane Swisshelm, and Anne Newport Royall. She admired these strong women, seeing them as a stark contrast to her mother’s perceived weakness. This shift led Clara away from “fanciful” notions of hope toward a life built on facts, proof, and logic—so much so that rather than pray, she now seeks guidance through the analytical study of the Bible.

After four years of exile, Clara returns to a Virginia City that is soon decimated by the Great Fire of 1875.

Now, she must find a way to reconcile her mother’s memory, her own search for significance, and her desire for a family. It is among the ruins of the city and of her family that she encounters Monsieur Beau Vulpe—a convict on the run with deep wounds of his own and a secret connection to her family that makes her the last woman in the world he would choose to love. Will the mysterious Frenchman be part of her healing or her final ruin?

Clara’s journey is one of healing, hard truths, and finding hope in the midst of the ashes. Have you ever had to face a “wound” from your past that felt impossible to heal? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. And if you’re ready to see how Clara and Beau’s story unfolds, you’ll want to read The Convict’s Courtship.”

Extinguishing flames on C Street While this picture does not depict the actual fire in 1875, it does show how the fire department and the town fought the flames. Source: The Historic Fourth Ward School Museum. http://fourthwardschool.org/events/virginia-citys-great-fire-of-1875/.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 10

Pause for Tales, March 10

lakesidelivingsite, March 11

Texas Book-aholic, March 12

Bizwings Blog, March 13

Sydney Schmied Books, March 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 14

For Him and My Family, March 15

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 16

Devoted Steps, March 17

Devoted To Hope, March 18

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 19

Stories By Gina, March 20 (Author Interview)

Connie’s History Classroom, March 20

Cover Lover Book Review, March 21

Life on Chickadee Lane, March 22

Holly’s Book Corner, March 23

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, KyLee is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a gift basket, which includes the whole series!!

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

https://gleam.io/sErXk/the-convicts-courtship-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Review

Stars in her Eyes by Erica Vetsch is part of the Brides of the West series. Pastor Silas Hamilton Is struggling with tension in the church, mainly caused by one woman who wants him to marry her daughter. When an acting tour brings Willow to town, Silas and her have a chance meeting and develop feelings for each other.

This is a nice series that does contains the same characters but are nice stand alone stories as well. I enjoyed this story very much. I appreciate how Silas held to the word when he developed feelings for Star. He cares so much for his church members. This story also shows how striving for stardom can cause a lot of hard feelings and competition. I enjoyed how Star did her job so well without developing that personality. She is put under much stress as the tour is offered a chance to play in New York but only if she is there. I like how she spends time making the decision that is best for her. This is a nice story that caught my attention right away and held it to the very end.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this story, this is my honest review.

About the Book

Book: Stars in Her Eyes

Author: Erica Vetsch

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: February 10, 2026

A determined minister and a talented actress—bound by love, tested by prejudice, and challenged to choose between heart and conventions.

Pastor Silas Hamilton defied his father’s plans for his life in order to follow God’s call to a small Colorado church. But when he falls for Willow Starr, a gifted actress new to town, his congregation threatens to fracture. Though he’s certain she’s the one God intends for him, mounting pressure forces him to question everything.

Willow has never known a life beyond the theater, following in her parents’ footsteps alongside her domineering sister. When she meets Silas, she discovers a love worth more than any stage role. But with a career-making opportunity in New York beckoning and a church suspicious of actresses, Willow must decide if she’s brave enough to step into an entirely new life.

As rumors and lies threaten to tear them apart, Silas and Willow discover that sometimes the hardest choices lead to the greatest blessings.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Best-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum.

More from Erica

One of the questions I often get as an author is, “Where do your ideas come from?”

The answer is “All over!”

I often get ideas while watching movies or reading books, delving into history books, visiting historical sites, or daydreaming.

For the story Stars in Her Eyes, the idea came from a photograph. A portrait of a pretty girl. Her name was Maude Adams, and her photograph stayed in my mind for a long time.

Those gray eyes, the regal tilt to her chin, the ‘touch-me-not’ expression.

Willow Starr was born.

Stars in her Eyes is the third book in a trilogy set in a mining town in Colorado. Such boomtowns had acting troupes moving through to entertain the minors and bring a bit of ‘class’ to those who were making their fortunes.

So of course, I had to imagine the least likely person to fall in love with an actress. A pastor.

Silas has a rare ability to see the talents of others, not as a threat or oddity, but as a potential asset to the church. He believes that God gifts individuals for the purpose of edifying the church, and that God’s people are found everywhere, even on a lamplit stage.

Blog Stops

Stories By Gina, March 5 (Author Interview)

Melissa’s Bookshelf, March 5

She Lives to Read, March 6

Sydney Schmied Books, March 6

Devoted Steps, March 7

Holly’s Book Corner, March 7

Life on Chickadee Lane, March 8

book looks by lisa, March 9

Books You Can Feel Good About, March 9

lakesidelivingsite, March 10

Devoted To Hope, March 11

Book Holds and Jello Molds, March 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 12

Texas Book-aholic, March 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 13

Lyssa Loves Books, March 14

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 15

Connie’s History Classroom, March 15

Cover Lover Book Review, March 16

Pause for Tales, March 16

For Him and My Family, March 17

Blossoms and Blessings, March 17

Simple Harvest Reads, March 18 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Giveaway

To celebrat her tour, Erica is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://gleam.io/r3uyx/stars-in-her-eyes-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Review

The Lumber Barons Wife by Lynn Austin is an attention grabbing dual timeline Christian story. This nicely written story takes place near Lake Michigan during the 1873 with lumber baron Henry, his wife Kate and the doctor who saved his life during the war, John and his wife Hannah. Woven through out the story is present day Ashley and her husband when they move to the area for him to pursue his dream job. They purchase the doctors home while Ashley helps to restore Henry and Kate’s home to turn it into a museum.

This story is so good! I appreciate how the story shows how three different women follow their husbands to Michigan for their jobs and how the women are forced to take on new lives. For Hannah, she leaves behind the area she has always know and the place where her three children are buried. Kate is forced to become a high society wife and follow all the boring rules expected of her while living with an abusive husband. And Ashley struggles to find a job as a museum worker in a town that doesn’t have a museum. I like how the story shows how strong each of the women are and how they accept and excel at the challenges they are faced with. I like how for each woman there was someone that brought them to God. I especially enjoyed how Ashley was able to find out the truth of her husband’s family situation. I admire the strength Hannah has to adopt children and the desire Kate has to care for others.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

About the Book

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, Henry’s spirited, much younger wife. Kate’s sharp tongue and outsider status have made her unwelcome among the town’s elite, and when she begins confiding in Hannah, it’s 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, she 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

About the Author

Lynn Austin is a teacher turned award-winning author who has written over 20 book. Her story Hidden Places was turned into a movie for Hallmark. You can learn more about her and books she has written at:https://lynnaustin.org

Where to Purchase

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-lumber-barons-wife-lynn-austin/1147629221?ean=9781496476418