Whispers at Painswick Court By Julie Klassen

Whispers at Painswick Court

by Julie Klassen

Publisher: Bethany House

ISBN: 978-0764244865

If you've been here any time at all you know that I absolutely adore being whisked back to the Regency era with Julie Klassen's books. I was so thankful to receive her book from the publisher!

Summary:

She expected her return to Painswick would bring memories of the past--not danger and romance. 

Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place where she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year. 

Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sickroom nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid. Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own. 

As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her resolution to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real culprit--and protect her heart--before it's too late?

Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this compelling Regency-era novel laced with intrigue, love, and English village charm for fans of historical romance and whodunit mysteries.

My Review:

Yet another Julie Klassen book I couldn't get enough of! The added suspense gave Whispers at Painswick Court gave that added element! There was an entire host of characters that had me suspicious about everything! Well, except Anne.

Anne makes a beeline for her old home town, Painswick, to help an old family friend who has written asking for help. She has to get away from her meddling stepmother! There she gets acquainted with old friends and some who weren't... friends!

I really adored Anne! She's so kind and tenderhearted. Almost as soon as she arrives in Painswick, she's sent to Painswick Court to take care of Lady Celia, which is where strange and dangerous things keep happening! Who could be the culprit though? There are numerous options as to who could be causing the issues. 

Doctors, relatives, pretty much anyone who shows up at Painswick Court is to be under suspicion! I kept being led astray by a variety of situations! At the same time, emotions are all over the place. Falling in love. Trying to keep Lady Celia alive. Trying to figure out her future. It all keeps Anne busy!

The story was a page turner and I got through it faster than most stories I've been reading lately. Easily a 5 star read for me! Julie's writing never ceases to whisk me away to the Regency era.

About the Author:

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane--Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold over 1.5 million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing's BEST Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for 16 years and now writes full-time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota. For more information, visit JulieKlassen.com.

Saddleback Leather Mini Bucket Bag

How often do you change your purse/bag? It's been too long for me and I've been going nuts wanting to switch to a new one, but I've been very particular about what I've been wanting. So, when I was given the opportunity to review a Saddleback Leather Mini Bucket Bag, I knew I'd found the one!

If you've seen my Instagram post, you'll know I'm in my crossbody era. The one I currently have is ready for retirement and the Mini Bucket Bag has slid into its place very nicely. I was so surprised to find out how much I could fit in the bag. I do want to mention that it's really "mini" so it's mostly for your essentials. If you're looking to cram everything into it, you'll want to size up. I'm already eyeballing the Leather Travel Satchel!

Yes, as a book blogger & reviewer, I made sure a book could fit in the Saddleback Leather Mini Bucket Bag. Yes, that's a photo of me sticking a book in my bag at the bookstore. It was at a book signing! lol Anyhow, even better than just my print copy? My Kindle fit in the back pocket perfectly! Trust me, all of the heart eyes were happening! The other thing that sold me on the bag is that there's a small pocket on the inside. We all have our idiosyncrasies, right? One of mine happens to be that I want my small wallet to be separate from everything else so that I can find it at the snap of my fingers. Hence, the love of the inside pocket. It also fits my chapstick (which I seem to constantly be digging for in my other bag) and my tissues.

I was so delighted to see that Saddleback Leather is so much more than bags. They seriously have something for everyone: a valet tray, sheepskin slippers, a travel chess set, the Constitution of the United States (yes you read that right), everyday purses, travel bags, and so much more! The brand stands behind its craftsmanship with a 100-year warranty, a rare guarantee that speaks to the quality of design and materials. 

They also have something called Love 41. This is an initiative comes from Psalm 41: 1-3 where Scripture tells us to love others and to take care of people. Saddleback Leather does that in a variety of ways such as Africa New Life Ministries, sponsorship for children in Rwanda, an afternoon school program in Mexico, scholarships for Bible education for orphans, abandoned children and children in great need, and more. How incredible is that for this company to give back to people who need it the most? They integrate faith, service, and community into the business model, connecting each purchase with living out values that matter.

If you're still looking for the perfect gift to give for Christmas this year (or seriously, any time of the year) look no further! Learn more about how the company got their start. It's incredibly powerful and will be a testament to God working in their lives!

Every Voice Heard Novella Collection

Every Voice Heard

by N.Y. Dunlap, D.T. Powell, and Sarah Hanks

Publisher: Brave Author Books

ASIN: ‎B0FKHRWP3L

Thanks to the publisher for sending me the ebook ARC for this collection! I don't have a lot of experience or know many people personally who have experienced being hurt by the church (leaders/body) so this is an important collection for those who have experienced it.

Summary:

Praise Through the Pain by N. Y. Dunlap

She walked away from the church. He’s finding his way back. One year after tragedy, their paths cross, and God’s not finished with either of them. A poignant Christian romance about rediscovering faith, and the kind of love that gently leads you home.

My Review:

It took me a little while to learn why the main character had been hurt by the church, but after we dove into Alexis's story, it began to surface. I think I was surprised that what Alexis and her nephew experienced because it's hard to believe that we're in 2025 and this kind of hurt is still around! I think there are probably a lot of families who actually experience this and it breaks my heart. An element that I loved about this story was the praise dance aspect since we never read about it in fiction!

Summary:

Rapha by D.T. Powell

After leaving her home church several months ago due to malicious rumors, Rebecca is tired of searching for a new congregation. When she settles on a church to visit through the holiday months, she discovers that her newest supervisee at work is the pastor. And not everyone is eager to have him behind the pulpit.

My Review:

This was such an interesting story! First, it's a good reminder that pastors (especially of smaller congregations) often need to get a second job to supplement their pastoral income. Also, when someone is hurt in a previous/current church, it's no surprise that they want to lay low and stay away from any hint of conflict. So, when the new pastor of the church she visits is confronted by church members, it's the last thing she wants to deal with. The story will resonate with those who have dealt with church gossip.

Summary:

For the Love of Truth by Sarah Hanks 

Candi loves her role as personal assistant to megachurch pastor Richard Blake. But when she meets Justice, he exposes the flaws of her "perfect" church family and she discovers her pastor isn't who he seems to be. Freedom lies on the other side of truth, if only she'll allow Justice and the Lord to lead her there.

My Review:

This story really got my blood roiling, same as it did for Justice (yes, that's his name)! With his first visit to a new church, he sees Candi and is instantly attracted to her. Thankfully, his main goal is to find a church that teaches Truth and to worship the Lord. It's not long after he's there when he goes on a date with Candi and things go downhill from there. To say that the pastor is disgusting and manipulative is putting it mildly. But, the story definitely shows how someone how is charismatic and narcissistic can easily pull the wool over people's eyes! I think the author did a fantastic job of shining a light on such a hard topic.

10% of all proceeds go to beEmboldened, a non-profit that exists for the prevention of and healing from spiritual abuse.

About the Authors:

Sarah Hanks is a multi-award-winning author of split-time Christian fiction. Her background in teaching and children’s ministry prepared her for exercising her creativity as a writer, now her full-time job. She and her husband have ten children, a couple of whom seem to have inherited their mother’s love for playing with words and crafting stories. Though Sarah dreams of a cabin by the beach, the family lives jammed together in beautiful chaos near St. Louis, Missouri. She buys earplugs in bulk. You can follow her on Facebook or Instagram @authorsarahhanks

N. Y. Dunlap is an emerging Christian romance novelist who loves to string together words in a creative, poignant way. God called, and she listened. You can expect to read romantic stories that abide by faith, hope, and love. Nicole graduated with a Masters in Educational Counseling from Azusa Pacific University, where the motto, "God first," encouraged her to work with inner-city youth and their families. Nicole lives in Sunny California with her husband and three children.

D. T. Powell grew up in a Christian home, loving books and reading. Her daily habits include: reading dozens of pages, picking which book to read next, and archiving and listening to sacred music. When she was nine, God sent a fictional character into her life who changed the way she looked at the world—and herself. From then on, she wanted to show everyone what God had done for her, so she pursued an art degree… and was summarily kicked out of the program due to general lack of artistic talent. Only after she graduated with a degree in business did she pick up the one utensil she had never thought to use, a pen. And she hasn’t put it down since. To fill her writing day, she works on original stories, extensive fanfiction endeavors, and learning more about the craft of writing. Her hobbies include hanging out with her husband and their three kitties, reading, playing pickleball, listening to music, and imagining scenes to use in future books. She loves Psalm 126:5, “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.” You can find her at dtpowellwrites dot com, on IG - dtill359, or FB - D. T. Powell, Author.

Love On The Run By Mandi Blake

Love on the Run

by Mandi Blake

Publisher: Independent

Series: Love in Blackwater

ISBN: 978-1953372581

I was so great receiving Love on the Run from Mandi in the midst of the craziness of my life last June. Unfortunately, the book ended up on her shelf and I forgot about it until recently when I was going through my books! I was glad I found it because it was such a fun read!

Summary:

When a runaway bride hitches a ride from her best friend’s grumpy brother, their lives will never be the same.

Anna Harris needs a getaway car after her wedding day ends in disaster. She may be a hopeless romantic, but she knows there's no Prince Charming coming to her rescue. There's only Beau, and right now, he's her only chance at freedom.

Beau Lawrence planned to sit through the ceremony and slip out before the reception. Helping the bride disappear wasn't on his to-do list. But now here he is, walking her to his motorcycle, trying to ignore the way her trust in him stirs something long buried.

Beau avoids relationships, and he is the last person Anna expected to give her hope as her life falls apart. And yet, what started as a desperate escape plan has quickly turned into the adventure of a lifetime—and maybe, just maybe, the answer to prayers she never knew to pray.

But when they return to the real world after a life-changing week completing her honeymoon bucket list, will their differences destroy their happily ever after?

If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.

My Review:

I was so excited for Beau's story! He's been such a great character in the rest of the stories that I needed him to get his HEA! That's where Love on the Run comes in!

Anna is ready to walk down the aisle to icky Dean, when her plans are undone by the woman he's been having an affair with. Let me just say, meeting Dean in other stories, I'm not sad that Anna took off! Thankfully, she found Beau just showing up to the church - on his motorcycle no less! I was actually thrilled he was able to whisk her away from her overbearing mother and cheating fiancé!

I love that her friends rally around her and convince Beau that he needs to take Anna on her honeymoon trip anyhow so she can get her mind off of everything that's happened. He agrees, but has no idea what he's in for. What's wonderful about this time is that Beau and Anna are finally able to really get to know one another and make memories that would fill anyone's heart!

Sadly, the real world is waiting for them when they come back, but thankfully, Beau isn't going to play around. Anna can see the difference between how Dean treated her and how Beau does. It's easy to see how beaten down she'd become by both Dean and her mother. Beau is absolutely a night in shining armor. He helps her to see her value again!

There were some funny moments and I appreciated the faith that was woven through it. I loved how Anna stayed true to her beliefs even when her family belittled her for them. 

About the Author:

Mandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.

Visit her website where you can sign up for her newsletter and get the free novella, South of Skye, and the free full-length book, A Thousand Words.

Mistletoe And Malice By Lori DeJong

Mistletoe and Malice

by Lori DeJong

Publisher: Scrivenings  Press LLC

ISBN: 978-1649175359

I'm always a bit hesitant to try a new-to-me author. I don't know why. I must have high expectations. Well, I had no reason to worry with Mistletoe and Malice by Lori DeJong. She sent me her book for review and I can't wait to share my thoughts with you!

Summary:

After barely escaping an attempted abduction, Houston attorney Riley Hudson is forced to accept her wealthy father’s demand for private security. The last thing she wants is a bodyguard—especially one as maddeningly arrogant, bossy … and handsome as Colton Blankenship. Yet as the threat against her escalates, she begins to rely not only on his skills, but his steadfast presence.

Colton isn’t thrilled about giving up his hard-earned holiday vacation to protect a spoiled heiress. But he soon learns Riley is nothing like he expected. Fierce, independent, and unwavering in her faith, she’s everything he thought he’d left behind after tragedy shattered his own beliefs. As the unknown threat circles closer, the tension between them ignites into something deeper … and far more perilous.

When a second attempt on Riley’s life nearly succeeds, Colton faces a terrifying truth. Protecting her means risking more than just his life. Haunted by a past he can’t outrun, and a faith he’s all but lost, he must decide if he can trust God again … before he loses Riley—and his heart—for good.

My Review:

I have high expectations when it comes to suspense. I really want to be on the edge of my seat with a story. I can assure you that Mistletoe and Malice did the trick!

It starts out with so much promise for Cait and Riley, friends from two wealthy families, until Cait is murdered! When Riley determines to get the man out of prison who was convicted for Cait's murder, someone starts to come after her and leave threatening notes.

The last thing Riley wants is a bodyguard, but with all that's happened, she reluctantly agrees... but only for 2 weeks! I will tell you that it feels like a lot longer than two weeks as she and Colton get to know each other as he's protecting her. She realizes maybe a bodyguard like Colton isn't such a bad thing and Colton learns that Riley has substance and isn't just a flighty heiress.

I love that while Riley is from a wealthy family, they are rooted in faith and give back generously! Their kindness and thoughtfulness shines throughout the story. Riley is a fixer and a helper. If she sees a need, she finds a way to fix it if she can. Colton has struggled with this faith since his painful loss a few years earlier. 

Riley and Colton have some near misses with the threat to her life! She's got a great team of people protecting her, but the man they're after is a master of disguise. He keeps showing up places and they're completely unaware of it! The suspense gripped me from start to finish.

I also appreciated the faith thread that was woven throughout the story! Prayer was an important facet of the story! Riley clearly spent time in prayer, her family went to church, and their faith was evident throughout the story. 

By the end of the book, I was champing at the bit for book two! I can't wait.

About the Author:

Lori DeJong (pronounced DeeYung) is an award-winning contemporary Christian romance author who enjoys penning stories full of grace and the redemptive power of God’s love that inspire others to hope regardless of circumstance, find joy in the moment, and grow in their faith. 

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Lori arrived in Texas in 2005 and dug those roots right in. She currently resides in beautiful Georgetown, north of Austin, with her husband of thirty years. Other than their two fur-babies, their nest is empty, as their daughter and son-in-law are settled in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. 

Lori loves to write about love and romance and all that fun stuff, with a firm foundation of faith. Clean but sassy, sparkly, and even goose-bumpy romance, with God in the middle and characters seeking and learning and changing, couldn’t be more heartwarming or spine-tingly.

Lori's debut novel, Love's True Calling, released in 2023, was the 2022 winner of the ACFW Genesis Award for Romance, a double finalist in the 2024 Selah Awards, and was named the 2023 Scrivenings Press Contemporary Book of the Year. Love’s True Home, released in June 2024, was also a Selah finalist. Love’s True Measure, released in June 2025, won second place in the Angel Awards, and Lori's Christmas novella, Jingle Bell Matchmakers, a part of A Match Made at Christmas novella collection, was named a 2025 ACFW Carol Award finalist and placed first in the Angel Awards."