HIS FIRST COUNTRY CHRISTMAS by Jill Kemerer, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas #ReleaseDay

 

An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (Wyoming Inheritance Series)

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
Jill Kemerer has written another delightful addition to her Wyoming Inheritance series with her new book, His First Country Christmas. 

Meena Hudson feels her interior design opportunities are limited in small-town Fairwood, Wyoming, and she begins to search for jobs in large cities. When Colton Brassard buys a huge, secluded ranch nearby, he needs someone to renovate the cabins there. Meena agrees to help Colton but objects to his workaholic ways, his inability to delegate responsibilities, and the sparse attention he gives his young son Tyler. As Meena takes Tyler under her wing and shows Colton he's missing out on his son's life, Colton begins to realize what is most important in life.

With engaging, realistic characters and a delightful, entertaining story line, this book had me turning pages and rooting for Meena and Colton. Tyler is a sweet addition to the story, and I loved how Meena related to him. I recommend this book to those who enjoy clean and wholesome stories that touch your heart.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

BackCover Blurb:
Christmas has a way of revealing
what truly matters…

Interior designer Meena Hudson longs for opportunities beyond Fairwood, Wyoming. But when gorgeous, driven Colton Brassard persuades her to renovate the cabins on his sprawling ranch, she agrees to stay through the holidays, vowing not to fall for her work-obsessed client. Yet Colton is drawn to the warmth Meena brings, especially as she creates a world of Christmas wonder for his lonely young son. As Meena’s big-city ambitions draw nearer, Colton will have to discover the true meaning of success—and fight for the love and family they could be if she stayed.

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Wyoming Inheritance Series:
Book 1: The Rancher's Mistletoe Baby 
Book 2: His First Country Christmas

Love Inspired, September, 2026

Available in digital ebook, and paperbacks

Buy HIS FIRST COUNTRY CHRISTMAS at Amazon or Christianbook 

WHEN WINTER CAME TO DUNN COTTAGE by Joanna Davidson Politano, Reviewed by Paula and Winnie #ReleaseDay

A Victorian Christmas Historical Mystery Set on the Cornish Coast

PAULA'S REVIEW:
I am always excited to dive into a Joanna Politano novel. This one is a novella but it is packed with allegory and is just sumptuous in its descriptions.

A theme that is evident throughout is: you should not just look on outward appearances but “lift your eyes”, hinting that if we see with the eyes of God that we see things differently. 

One of my favorite authors is Charles Dickens and main character Rosalyn Snow loves him too. She emphasizes with the poor and needy and sees a connection to those who are generous and kind towards them. My favorite novel by Dickers is A Tale of Two Cities. I recognized a similarity to this story of sacrifice for others and of course to the sacrifice of Christ Himself. 

Beautifully written, this story has romance, a noble but not titled hero in Simon Belfour and characters who have hidden motives. The atmospheric writing was mesmerizing in the cliff cottage, the mansion and during danger when calamity strikes. 

If you love Amanda Dykes, this story will be sure to captivate you.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone. *5+ stars and a underlying faith thread

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
"It's so easy to think that what's at eye level is all there is, because it consumes our vision. We cannot see past it. Or we don't allow ourselves to."

When Rosalyn Snow encounters a man wearing her missing father's coat and fleeing the police, she decides to bring him to her home for Christmas and attempt to find out what he knows about her father. Simon Balfour is elusive and has secrets, but does he know where her father is? What is this man hiding?

It was a delight to return to Dunn Cottage on the cliffside in Cornwall. I was drawn to the beautiful, enticing cover and the premise of a hidden cottage with a rich family heritage. Joanna Davidson Politano's stories are always very creative and filled with unexpected twists and turns. They're also a little magical, whimsical, and mysterious with deep, engaging characters and most often have very surprising endings. This story is no different, and though it is a novella, there is a lot packed into it, and it feels complete and satisfying. I especially enjoyed the thread of charity and service to others that ran through the tale.

I'm looking forward to more stories about Dunn Cottage from this author. She is definitely one of my favorite authors. Her books are such a treat.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own. 

BackCover Blurb:
A stranger is wearing her missing father's coat.
And he isn't saying why…

The last place Rosalyn Snow expects to find her father's coat is beneath Exeter's old Exe Bridge.

Especially not on the back of a man fleeing the police.

Convinced the stranger holds the truth she’s spent years searching for, Rosalyn brings him home for Christmas. But Simon avoids giving answers, and what little he reveals only deepens the mystery.

As Dunn House fills with glittering guests, whispered ambitions, and holiday celebration, Simon moves through society as though he belongs there... yet he’s just as at home among the vagrants on the docks. And when Simon’s carefully guarded past reaches Dunn House during the Twelfth Night celebration, the fragile peace of the estate begins to unravel.

What has become of her father?
And who is the man wearing his coat?

Bringing Simon Balfour home might unravel Christmas.
Discovering who he is will make it unforgettable.

The House on the Edge of the Cliff series tells interconnected stories across generations, where one house on the Cornish coast holds secrets that echo through time.

Buy WHEN WINTER CAME TO DUNN COTTAGE in digital ebook at Amazon  (or kindle unlimited --at time of posting)

 

 

DESIRE OF MY HEART and WITH ALL MY HEART by Heidi Gray McGill, Reviewed by Rebecca

 Shumard Oak Bend Novels 

(Discerning God’s Best Book 1 and 2)

REBECCA'S REVIEWS:

DESIRE OF MY HEART
"Tomorrow, we will begin the process of selecting a husband for you now that you are nearing womanhood."

Horrified that the director of the orphanage where Rachel and her brother Charlie had spent most of their life was about to bid out her future, she makes a courageous decision, to marry a grieving widower and take care of his two children. It was the only way that Rachel could think of to make sure that she and Charlie could be able to stay together. And so, slipping off in the dead of night, Rachel and Charlie become Trexlers.

With a roof over her head, a kind husband, and a household to manage, Rachel's life begins to fall into a pleasant routine before unexpected circumstances make it clear that God has a few more chapters to write into her story; many of which will be challenging, some of which will be painful.

This emotional family saga, with its amazing array of characters from so many corners of Rachel's life, is a wellspring of applied spiritual truths resulting in a sure hope and blessed assurance that God does indeed give us the desires of His heart! 

WITH ALL MY HEART
When Pete Manning happens upon Singing Bird's dog Honi, hurt and alone, he fears the worst. After giving the loyal animal rest and sustenance, he depends on Honi to lead him straight to Singing Bird and her son Little Sun, who desperately need his help. On the one hand, Pete is relieved to lay eyes on the one woman who he has been unable to forget, but on the other hand, her life is hanging in the balance until Pete can send for reinforcements.

Ironically, Pete's solitary life had very recently been interrupted by the sudden appearance of another woman; his niece. Tired of city life and endless expectations, Lizzy had decided to escape into the wide open spaces of rural Missouri where she could demonstrate her skills as an experienced horsewoman. It didn't take long before she caught the eye of one of Pete's neighbors, Charlie Trexler, who has plans of his own, or so he thinks. God is obviously taking Pete's resolve to wait on the Lord to strengthen his heart to an entirely new level.

After reading the first book in this series, I was highly motivated to read the second; Pete and Singing Bird's story was guaranteed to be special . . . and it was . . . and it was so much more! Reuniting with familiar characters while they courageously struggled and vigorously rejoiced was both a blessing and an encouragement! The story also introduces readers to new members of the Shumard Oak Bend community, ensuring there will be even more stories just waiting to be told! 

*I purchased these books and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurbs:

DESIRE OF MY HEART
𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆, 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝑮𝒐𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒋𝒐𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈.

In the heart of 1858 Missouri, Rachel's world is a whirlwind of uncertainty. But amidst the darkness of her circumstances, she clings to the promise of joy that God whispers to her soul.

Facing the grim reality of being sold off into marriage as she ages out of the orphanage, Rachel refuses to accept her fate. With determination blazing in her heart, she hatches a daring plan with her beloved brother to escape the cruel grip of destiny.

Enter Melvin, a widower burdened with raising two young children alone. Desperate for help, he sees a glimmer of hope in Rachel—a chance for a new beginning through a marriage of convenience.

As God intertwines their lives, the five of them embark on a journey that transcends the bounds of blood, forming an unlikely family bound by love, resilience, and unwavering faith. Through trials and triumphs, they forge a home where hope blooms even in the harshest of circumstances.

But just when they think they've found their slice of heaven on Earth, tragedy strikes, threatening to shatter their newfound happiness. Yet, guided by the light of God's love and surrounded by a steadfast community, they rise from the ashes stronger than ever before.

Rachel's adventure unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous era, where every twist and turn brings her closer to her heart’s desire. Yet, in her quest for love, purpose, and security, she discovers that God's plans far surpass her wildest dreams.

Join Rachel on her breathtaking journey through the untamed landscapes of the past, where love, faith, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow illuminate even the darkest of nights.

In this powerful Christian historical fiction, award-winning author Heidi Gray McGill weaves an enthralling tale of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of God's grace.

For Misty M. Beller, Lacy Williams, and Linda Ford fans, this standalone novel in the Discerning God’s Best series will capture your heart and leave you breathless. You’ll love this book if you enjoy gripping historical drama and compelling characters. Binge-read the entire series on Kindle Unlimited.

WITH ALL MY HEART
Accepting love after rejection is a journey of its own.

On the untamed frontier of the 1860s, Pete Manning seeks refuge from a past shadowed by regret. Despite being cleared of wrongdoing, his homestead and life feel empty without the woman who once stole his heart.

Singing Bird, cast out by her Arapaho tribe, flees with her son, finding herself drawn back to Pete—the man she once loved. Their paths intertwine once more, stirring old wounds and reigniting buried desires.

A glimmer of hope emerges as Pete and Singing Bird navigate the complexities of their shared history. But as emotions run high and buried truths come to light, Pete and Singing Bird must confront their fears and embrace the love they've always longed for.

In this powerful Christian historical fiction, award-winning author Heidi Gray McGill vividly portrays passion, forgiveness, and redemption in the rugged frontier. With each turn of the page, readers will be swept away on a journey of faith, hope, and the enduring power of love.

“With All My Heart” is clean and wholesome fiction for Misty M. Beller, Lacy Williams, and Linda Ford fans. This sequel to “Desire of My Heart,” book one in the Discerning God’s Best series, will capture your heart and leave you breathless. You’ll love this book if you enjoy gripping historical drama and compelling characters. Binge-read the entire series on Kindle Unlimited.

BOTH STORIES ARE:
• Full-length Christian historical fiction
• A standalone novel in the Discerning God’s Best series
• Includes discussion questions for book clubs
• Timeline: 1858 – 1857
• For fans of Misty M. Beller, Lacy Williams, and Linda Ford 

 Find the series in digital ebook, paperback, or audiobook at Amazon

THE LAST NOEL: A Romantic Suspense Christmas Collection, Reviewed by Rebecca

 A Romantic Suspense Christmas Collection

 by Sarah Hamaker, Jayna Breigh, Kimberley Woodhouse

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
A very well written complication of romantic suspense Christmas themed novellas!

"I didn't know who else to call." - Do You See What I See? by Sarah Hamaker

Alone with her foster sister's two young children, Oakleigh Wright calls the only person she knows who might come to her rescue in the middle of the night at a random truck stop. . . except . . . Joseph Talbot used to be the love of her life . . . seven years ago. When Joseph does indeed answer the call, Oakleigh has no choice but to omit some pertinent details regarding her predicament. In the end, it doesn't matter, members of a dangerous gang are following their every move. Will Oakleigh and Joseph witness a Christmas miracle? . . . pray it is so.

This little story started playing tunes on my heartstrings right away, with its cuddly kids and tender, romantic reunion!

"Now her fancy toenails had nothing to look forward to except encasement in her Christmas socks." - Do You Hear What I Hear? by Jayna Breigh

After her long awaited Christmas vacation is abruptly cancelled by an unforeseen legal deadline, trial lawyer Elise Sinclair resigns herself to a lonely holiday buried in case files. Imagine her surprise when her roommate's brother (who also happens to be her own personal heart-breaker) shows up downstairs on the couch the next morning. Please say it isn't so! Wasn't Jack Grant supposed to be in Australia!

Between her sneaky grandmother and Jack's genuine remorse, Elise's lethargic holiday spirit has nowhere to go but up! But first things first, she has a case to solve!

The sweetest of second chance stories with a dollup of Christmas grace!

"Transplanting her life to Alaska and running a popular food truck had been born out of grief and betrayal, but it brought her joy." - Do You Know What I Know? by Kimberly Woodhouse

When a highly publicized and televised cooking competition went terribly wrong, Faith Thibodeaux took the necessary time to heal from her injuries before moving all the way from Louisiana to Alaska with her famed gumbo recipe and begins running a highly successful food truck business. Shocked to see the face of her former boyfriend in the customer line, once again a camera happens to catch the incident. What were the chances that Gabe Rougeau has changed as much as he claims?

A deeply emotive second chance romance sprinkled with culture, complications and Christmas cheer. 
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Christmas novellas from three award-winning suspense authors

The Last Noel is a riveting Christmas novella collection with suspense, intrigue, and second-chance romance.
 

"Do you See What I See?" by Sarah Hamaker
Oakleigh Wright's estranged foster sister reappears late one night desperate to hand off her children. Oakleigh agrees to bring them to their aunt out of state, but her travels are intercepted by a ruthless gang. She turns to her ex, Joseph, for help. Will they rekindle their love as they uncover what the gange seeks?

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" by Jayna Breigh
Trial lawyer Elise Sinclair resigns herself to a lonely Christmas reviewing legal documents—until her renegade fiancé, Jack, reappears. He is jobless, broken, and seeking forgiveness. Can two battered hearts overcome secrets and restore their love?
 

"Do You Know What I Know?" by Kimberley Woodhouse
When Faith Thibodeaux returns to her Cajun-style food truck in Alaska after an accident, the last thing she expects is to find out that her ex-boyfriend is the executive chef of a new restaurant. When they return to their hometown over the holidays to fundraise, will the "friendly" competition restore their love or rip them apart forever?

Kregel Publishing, August, 2026

Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon, Christianbook, or Baker Book House