Author: Jenelle Hovde
Genre: Historical Romance
Pages: 368
Release Date: July 14, 2026
Publisher: Tyndale Fiction

An arranged marriage. A powerful company tainted with corruption. Two souls caught between obligation and a longing to find their true calling in this Regency romance set in glittering London ballrooms and Calcutta street markets.

When Kitty Grenville’s grandfather announces her engagement to Sebastian Sinclair, she’s appalled. She barely remembers the boy she met once as a child—and now he’s a man tied to the East India Company, the very organization that tore Kitty and her brother from their mother and home in Hyderabad years ago. Unwilling to relinquish her dream of a love match or her passion for astronomy, Kitty is determined to refuse the marriage and find freedom in her own way.

Sebastian Sinclair carries the weight of duty and regret. To atone for past sins, he complies with his grandfather’s orders to return to England, fulfill a long-standing betrothal, and defend the maligned East India Company before Parliament. Though Kitty makes her disinterest clear, Sebastian is drawn to her intellect and spirit.

As Kitty navigates her first London season, her opinion of Sebastian begins to shift, especially when he shields her from scandal. When he’s abruptly called back to India, Kitty stuns everyone by marrying him and going with him, hoping to escape her grandfather’s control—and to find her mother.

But the challenges that await in India are greater than imagined. Together, Kitty and Sebastian must confront the legacy of family and empire—and discover if a marriage born of obligation can grow into a love strong enough to endure.

Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise

Captivating from page one, I was fascinated by the premise of Kitty seemingly kidnapped from her life in India to find herself secluded in the English countryside. With an arranged marriage in the near future, she feels manipulated and wants nothing to do with Sebastian. She has no fond memories of the one time she met him when they were younger. Sebastian travels to England from India, where he is being groomed to oversee the vast East India Company. He too feels manipulated by his grandfather. After the marriage of convenience takes place, Kitty and Sebastian join forces to uncover mysteries that were long in the making. 

I felt the wariness of the characters and loved the slowly developing romance. The story was very atmospheric, from the ballrooms of England to the sultry sumptuousness of India. I was also intrigued by the history revealed about the East India Company as well as facts about William Wilberforce and William Carey. This author has a winning way of incorporating history into an impressive story. I enjoyed the facts about astronomy and several women who were ahead of their time in scientific knowledge. 

Kitty and Sebastian had a strong faith, and that played a part in how they perceived the obstacles they came across. This journey back in time was expertly portrayed by a talented author who used careful research to write an exceptional novel. 

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale and by NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.

Reviewer: Diana Lea

What a wonderful story this is. I chose it to learn more about the history of Calcutta and the India Trading Company while India was under British rule. This story gave me plenty to think about. This is the first novel I have read by Jenelle Hovde, and I will be looking for more.

Both a mystery and a romance, I found much to enjoy. Cleverly woven into the story were mysterious letters from India and intrigue centered around the sanctioned growth and export of opium, with an investigation into possible smuggling. 

On the romance side, I so admired Kitty’s determination that her fate would not be governed by others, and Sebastian showing that he was a man who controls his emotions and sees much. A man of action, seeking to win Kitty’s approval. Spiritually, we get to learn about missionary activity in India at this time. The characters were prayerful, which I always appreciate.

The Light of Stars is a clean, inspirational romance that celebrates free will over obligation. I highly recommend it for fans who enjoy intrigue without overly suspenseful moments.

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book via Interviews & Reviews.

Reviewer: Jeanette Durkin

A glittering masterpiece! I was instantly enamored with the settings and the story. The author’s descriptive language brought everything to life.

The characters are written brilliantly! I really connected with Kitty (Katherine). Her past has many unanswered questions. Her future is being planned out for her, and she longs for freedom more than anything. Sebastian is 😍!! He also feels like his future is being planned out for him. The black sheep of his family, he strives to take his place in the family company. As their paths cross (by force) they soon realize that together they might find freedom and love.

There are many references to God. Many reminders of His love. “I closed my eyes, a sense of peace washing over me. I belonged to the One who had created the heavens. He had never lost me, even in my confusion and despair. His plan, though often hidden, had been weaving a tapestry of grace and purpose in my life.”

I was provided a complimentary ARC copy of the book from Tyndale House Publishers via NetGalley through Interviews & Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

This was fantastic! I simply couldn’t put this wonderful novel down!

I loved every minute of this story and was on cloud nine by the time it was over.

This is definitely a good book that you will be thinking about long after it’s over.

Wonderful characters that were very realistic and interesting places to visit along with Kitty and Sebastian.

I loved the duo chapters between Sebastian and Kitty. To me, it made it easier to get to know them better. Each is told from their point of view.

I love astronomy. Have all my life. I understood Kitty in more ways than one. I loved her instantly! Who doesn’t want true love?! I’m on her side!

I enjoyed learning something new along the way, too. The East India Company was definitely interesting. I love a good debate.

I don’t much care for the grandfather though. I thought he was controlling. I’m not sure Id like my marriage arranged for me either. I like choosing for myself. But maybe the grandfather knew what he was doing.

Hovde is a wonderful storyteller. Her research is exquisite, and I felt like I was there along with the characters.

It was an amazing adventure! A new to me author soon to be added to my list of favorites!

5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend this beautiful, Regency but clean romance! I didn’t want it to end. I’m adding this to my list of favorites

I received a complimentary copy from the author via NetGalley and Tyndale Fiction.

Author: Lauraine Snelling
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Home to Green Creek #3
Pages: 336
Release Date: September 1, 2026
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

When her carefully ordered life is shaken, the path forward requires finding the courage to trust again.

Helen Stenerson has planted her roots in the community of Green Creek, Iowa, and poured her heart into teaching. She's determined to avoid romantic entanglement--her teaching contract forbids it, and a broken engagement has taught her the dangers of opening her heart. But thoughtful seminary student Ødger Gunderson begins to weaken her resolve with his genuine interest.

When an urgent letter from Ohio is delivered to Helen, the quiet life she's built is shattered. The letter brings news of her aunt's failing health, and when Helen rushes back to be with her, her aunt reveals secrets about Helen's past that upset everything Helen thought she knew. Returning to Green Creek with more questions than answers, can Helen embrace love and the path God has for her?

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

Wow! I absolutely adored this novel! I couldn’t put it down until 2am.

Snelling has outdone herself on this one. Wow!

The hymn she used is one of my most favorites. It came from the hymn Beautiful Savior. “Sigh”

Wonderful characters, 2nd chances and forgiveness are my favorite things in this story, but all of it touched my heart deeply. The places were described so well that I could feel like I were there myself.

I loved the many faith-filled themes throughout this story and kept them close to my heart. They’re a gentle reminder that God’s always near and that He has a plan for us. If it’s meant to be, then it will happen. God’s timing, not ours.

I love how the author also shows that secrets always come out, no matter how carefully you try to hide them. My heart went out to Helen. She was in fact my favorite character. I really admired her for trying to deal with what was given to her and how she handled it.

I liked Odgar too. He’s struggling as well, in my opinion. I thought he rather did a wonderful job as well. I loved discovering his secrets, too.

I was left feeling full and satisfied, but sad when this book ended. I hope there’s another one coming. Snelling has long been a favorite of mine since the late 80s.

I’m giving this story 5 stars for a job well done!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via NetGalley for my honest opinion. Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Reviewer: Carolyn Bryant

My Friend’s Name is Jesus is an appealing, faith-building children’s book. The engaging illustrations complement the text perfectly. 

My 11-year-old granddaughter said it kept her interest even at her age and was a great reminder that Jesus loves her and is there for her no matter what she is feeling. I totally agree with her that young children will “really like the rhyming verse, and it will help them learn about Jesus in a way that is easy to understand.” 

I love the “Go Deeper” section of the book, which offers adult-led activities that reinforce the faith values with short games and interactive exercises to complete together. 

I recommend this book as a wonderful addition to any preschooler’s bookshelf, functioning beautifully as a comforting bedtime read or a family devotional resource. 

I received a copy of this book from the author through Interviews & Reviews with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Author: Sarah Gaston
Genre: Children's Book
Pages: 27
Release Date: February 15, 2024
Publisher: Sarah Gaston Books

Count the Monster Trucks as they go to church, read Bible stories, help out friends, and more!

This adorable counting book counts down from 10 to 1 in a rhyme, with fun 'find it' and 'counting game' activities in the back!

Reviewer: Carolyn Bryant

This book is a fun way for young children to learn scripture and soak up faith values! 

Children will be captivated by the colorful, delightful illustrations and easy to understand rhyming text that make learning about faith an entertaining adventure. As a parent, grandparent, and retired educator, I love the book’s interactive elements, such as counting and “find it” activities. I know it would have been a favorite when my children and grandchildren were preschool age. 

If you are looking for a fun, faith-filled book for your children that fosters spiritual development through engaging, age-appropriate content, I highly recommend this one.

I received a copy of this book from the author through Interviews & Reviews with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Reviewer: Katie Slocum

When my children were little, it was exciting to find a book that they enjoyed yet also instilled positive spiritual values. 10 Faithful Monster Trucks is a book that you can be confident will emphasize Christian morals while leaving out worldly agendas.

Follow these friends as they go to church, sing, help others, and worship their Creator. Children will delight in the bright colors, fun characters, counting games, and hidden things to find on each page. Parents will appreciate themes such as prayer, kindness, thankfulness, family, scripture, and more.

10 Faithful Monster Trucks is a book that you will be glad you kept on your child’s shelf. They will read it again and again, while not even realizing they are absorbing important faith lessons. Pair with a few toy trucks for a perfect gift any little one will love.

I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the author through Interviews & Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Author: Christine Dillon
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Series: Light of Nations #6
Pages: 262
Release Date: June 1, 2026
Publisher: Links in the Chain Press

Trust, once broken, is hard to restore.

Saphi has spent her life despising the mother who scarred her face and condemned her to obscurity as a temple sweeper in the house of Dagon. Scorned and friendless, she expects nothing from the Philistine gods except silence.

Then the Philistines capture the ark of the God of Israel.

Paraded into Dagon’s temple as a trophy of victory, the sacred ark should mark Israel’s defeat. Instead, terrifying signs and unexplainable disasters begin to shake the city. Israel’s God is no helpless captive—and as fear spreads among her people, Saphi is swept into events far greater than her own pain. Events that will lead her beyond everything she has ever known and force her to confront the wounds she cannot escape.

Why would the God of Israel notice someone like her?

And what if he demanded the very thing she can’t give?

Set during the time of 1 Samuel and the judgeship of Samuel, this gripping biblical novel brings the Philistine world vividly to life. Perfect for readers who enjoy historical fiction that is realistic, thought-provoking, and spiritually compelling.

The Light of Nations series features standalone novels, each centred on a different people group whose story intersects with Israel’s. While the books move chronologically through the Old Testament and include subtle connections between titles, each can be enjoyed on its own.

Reviewer: Jeanette Durkin

I really enjoyed reading this unique book! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book based on this particular time period in the Bible.

The characters are intriguing. It was amazing to “see” their spiritual perspectives change over time. Saphi is a good worker, a great listener, and a loyal friend. Lahmi has a gentle spirit, and he’s passionate about serving Yahweh. Samuel is a very patient and wise prophet and teacher. He never shied away from the questions that Saphi and Lahmi had.

This book spoke to me on many levels, but the one that resonated with me is the need to share about Yahweh. It reminded me of Romans 10:14. “How can people have faith in the Lord and ask Him to save them, if they have never heard about Him? And how can they hear, unless someone tells them?” (CEV version)

I was provided with a complimentary copy of the book from Links in the Chain Press via Interviews & Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Author: Tamera Alexander
Genre: Historical Romance
Pages: 416
Release Date: September 8, 2026
Publisher: Tyndale Fiction

1905. Josephine Dunham is running for her life. After a women’s suffrage rally in Atlanta turns deadly, she buys a one-way ticket on the first train out and lands in rural Tennessee. There, Dodge Coburn—a rough-edged stranger with undeniable appeal—begrudgingly offers her a ride to Lynchburg, a speck of a town where Josephine hopes to disappear.

Battered and desperate, Josephine has little to say when Dodge delivers her to Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House. Hoping to work in exchange for room and board, she soon discovers the only job matching her skills is at Jack Daniel’s Distillery, an irony not lost on a suffragist committed to prohibition.

Dodge is skeptical of Josephine’s claim that she’s on the run from an abusive husband. But between running Jack Daniel’s cattle farm and raising his young niece, he has little time or inclination to press her . . . at first. But when Josephine’s convictions and compassion draw him in, Dodge begins to reconsider the life he’s chasing, while Josephine must face a world far more complicated than the principles she’s held to.

As Jack Daniel’s Distillery gains national recognition, Josephine’s secrets resurface. In a place where whiskey making takes time but justice is too often hurried, Dodge and Josephine must decide what—and who—they are willing to risk everything for, and whether faith will hold when the cost is high and time is running out.

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

I was so excited and delighted to see that Tamera Alexander has written another book! She hasn’t written one in a very long time.

When I saw In These Hills, I knew I had to have it. I wasn’t disappointed at all!

Oh, my, this book was everything that I’ve come to expect from this amazing author!

How cool it would have been to time travel back to those times. I’d see firsthand what those women had to deal with and fight for. They fought for our rights as women, and I so admire and appreciate them.

Through this beautiful and sometimes hard story, I was able to do that. There are places I cheered Josephine in, and other places I wanted to cry for her. She’s what made me keep turning the pages. She’s the one who wouldn’t let me go to sleep until she told me her story

Then we have Dodge Coburn. Skeptical, uncertain, and maybe leary at first, but I found myself rooting for him and Bethie too. Especially Bethie.

I actually enjoyed meeting Jack Daniels too. No, I didn’t like the idea of the distillery, but I enjoyed getting to know the man himself. I thought he was the most charismatic man I’ve ever met.

I learned many things from this book. The faith filled themes were wonderful. Some romance, but not overdone. 

I loved everything about this novel, and I was sad when it ended. I finished this book at 3am because I couldn’t put it down.

My friend would agree with this quote from the book:

“We all got our stories, don’t we? Chapters we don’t want read aloud, and other parts we pray to God nobody ever reads at all. But the thing is … He reads them, every page, every word, and loves us anyway. Whatever it is you’re carrying, remember that.” This also came from Nannie Calla’s niece.

Secrets were never meant to be kept. They do tend to come out sooner or later.

Another favorite quote “You can run, but you can’t hide. God always knows where you are.”

“Bethie, we shouldn’t judge all men by one. There are good men in this world. So, to judge them as all being the same isn’t fair to them. Just like not all women, or girls, are the same.” I agree.

This was such a good read that I’ll be thinking about it for a long time to come.

5 stars for a job well done!

I received this book from Interviews & Reviews through Tyndale via NetGalley for my honest opinion.

Reviewer: Raechel Helwig

I ended up loving this one! Not that I am surprised - the cover is adorable, the blurb intriguing, and set in Italy is always a plus. 

The beginning started out just a little slow for me, but honestly, I think that was because my Kindle app was being terrible. Once I switched reading apps, I got way more into the story. 

Main character, Lexington Walker, is all about planning and sticking to that plan. She is an event planner and organizer, after all. Her long-awaited trip to Italy seems to continuously go off track, though, in all the good ways. 

I loved how Lexington met the main hero character, Mark Russo, and how they would bump into each other unexpectedly. Their entire relationship was definitely and obviously the highlight of the story. The banter between them was always lively and enjoyable, and how they genuinely grew to care for each other was sweet. And I loved the ending - that was certainly one of my favorite parts.

The setting was rich. I often felt like I was getting glimpses of Italy right alongside Lexington. The feel of Italy really wove into the pages well.

The Roman Holiday Rule was a truly delightful read, and I look forward to more from this author!

I received an eBook copy courtesy of Haven through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts expressed are entirely my own.

Reviewer: Mindy Houng

“There’s a tiny section on the Venn diagram where maddening and captivating overlap.”

 What a fun and sweet romcom! From the first chapter, I was hooked. Lexi and Mark’s first-person voices were delightful. The above quote from the book explains their entire relationship in a sentence. Lexi and Mark both battled heartbreak of different origins, and their fear rising out of the heartbreak was the main thing keeping them apart. But their chemistry was instantaneous and their banter was truly amazing.

And the pop culture references, especially about Star Wars, were so fun. I loved Lexi for her organizational skills, soft and loyal heart, and taste for adventure. I also loved Mark with his fascinatingly creative mind, quirky sense of humor, tender and compassionate heart, and love for his family. The sights, sounds, taste, and feel of Rome as Lexi and Mark kept getting thrown together felt like I had gone on a Roman holiday with them. Though slightly predictable, the magical realism in the story was cute, and I loved watching how Lexi and Mark’s paths intersected every step of the way.

This is the perfect beach read. 

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Haven via Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

Author: Dani Pettrey
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Jeopardy Falls #3
Pages: 336
Release Date: August 18, 2026
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

When FBI forensic botanist Harper Grace returns to Jeopardy Falls scarred from a traumatic assignment, she seeks refuge at the MacLeod ranch. Her time to recover is short-lived when she learns her dear friend Taylor Jackson has died of a heart attack in her thirties. As questions arise from Taylor's premature death, Harper wonders if something sinister is playing out.

Deckard MacLeod, PI, is thrilled at Harper's return, though troubled by the haunted look in her eyes. When Harper begins investigating Taylor's suspicious death, Deckard realizes she's walking into dangerous territory and joins her in discovering what happened. The closer they get to the deadly truth, the more treacherous their mission becomes. In a race against time, they cannot fall behind or their next breath might be their last.

Reviewer: Anna Bottoms

This book drew me in from the very beginning and never let go. I was surprised it followed not one but two siblings as they navigated their personal life choices, dealing with childhood trauma. Throw a brief romance into the mix, and you have an intriguing book that you don’t want to put down until the end.

Harper seeks refuge with Deckard after she’s kidnapped overseas and held in a shipping container. The book begins with her experience and determination to escape when the opportunity presents itself. My heart was pounding right along with hers through her harrowing experience. Well written!

Deckard and Harper have much to navigate, including her questions and doubts about why God allowed others to die while she was saved. His faith helps her to see how God was always present.

Though his parents were criminals, he chose the legal side of justice in his job as a PI, but he doesn’t see himself as worthy because of the things he did when he was young and helping con people. He hasn’t seen his sister in years and isn’t sure he ever wants to since she abandoned her siblings as a teenager. 

My favorite parts of the book were actually with Deckard’s sister Bristol, who chose to follow in her parents’ footsteps conning people and spends time in jail for it. The difference is she cons criminals operating under her own moral compass. 

Aubry, the FBI agent who hunted her down and is now working with her, isn’t sure what to make of her, and that very thing makes their situation interesting. I love how he can’t help but like her, crossing a professional line as his feeling grow. 

The conflict of emotions in both of them had me wondering where things between them would go. I appreciated how Aubrey’s faith began to draw Bristol and change her despite herself. There’s something about her and her situation that had me rooting for her and hoping for a redemptive change in her life.

I received a copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of this book. I recommend it.

Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise

“There are no spare parts in the Mighty Mechanic’s workshop. Every piece, every person, is made with a divine purpose.” 

This was a delightful and whimsical book that was chock full of literary references from Mary Poppins and Little Women to some of my favorite Christian Fiction authors of today. 

I have a pet peeve with the phrase “she released a breath she did not realize she was holding.” Imagine my surprise when Ms. Bell turned it on its head. “ Margaret exhaled the breath she was well aware she had been holding.” Bravo! 

So much fun in this informative story that was based on real women who broke the mold in their own lifetimes. 

Margaret was dealing with chronic pain that was aptly portrayed. “All pain matters in God’s eyes.” Hero Charles shows her compassion and unconditional love. He is a caring, self sacrificing, upright Christian man. 

The romance was precious and played out within the mystery that Margret led her colleagues to investigate. 

A thoroughly enjoyable and special book that will go on my keeper shelf and be among my top reads for 2026. 

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.

Reviewer: Ewurabena Wilson

Angela Bell has written a deeply moving novel which sheds light on pain. 

I was drawn to Angela Bell’s A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile by the cover. One hardly comes across a novel where the protagonist is in a wheelchair. This has been one of the most eye-opening novels I have ever read. Angela Bell has brilliantly written a novel that captures pain and physical suffering.

An accident in her childhood leaves Lady Margaret ‘Maggie’ Kingsley with a life-changing condition. Maggie is shunned by childhood friends but fiercely loved by her parents and her new friends at the Daughters of Genius Society, D.O.G.S. Maggie is an exceptional inventor whose witty inventions left me wide-eyed. Maggie’s secluded lifestyle is challenged when she is assigned as the inspector of a purloined patent case. Maggie must battle her inner fears as she takes on this case. The acceptance of this role will not only bring her out of seclusion but also into the path of Charles Noble.

Charles Noble is a music prodigy who sacrifices everything to take care of his family. Little does he know that the acceptance of a job will bring him into the path of a woman who will capture his heart. I loved Charles’ character. I loved how he saw Maggie for who she was and how he loved her deeply. 

Maggie struggles, especially her depleted teaspoon moments were difficult to read. I loved her selflessness and inner strength, which she was not aware of. She had her difficult pain, but still chose to be grateful. 

I enjoyed reading this novel. I struggled at the beginning of the novel with all the names and happenings at D.O.G.S. I was hooked in the second half of the novel. I hope there is a story in the pipeline for Helena and Jane.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

Reviewer: Katelyn Sponaugle

What a FUN read! 

This book is brimming with quirky, endearing characters and charming whimsy in the form of delightfully outrageous gadgets and happenings. 

Along this rollicking romp is an intriguing case to be solved, as well as a little romance of equal parts sweetness and adorable awkwardness, and is completely endearing.  

Angela Bell also explores life with chronic pain and injury induced physical limitations in a way I can honestly say I’ve never encountered in a novel. It was thought provoking. Charles’ and Margaret’s support, acceptance, and understanding of one another’s needs was heartwarming. 

A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile was quirky, fun, and whimsical. A lighthearted and heartwarming read, sure to delight and endear. 

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review. 

Author: Amanda Cox
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Pages: 333
Release Date: August 18, 2026
Publisher: Revell

A mysterious package. A name she thought she'd erased. And the one person she never expected to see again.

Tess Holcomb has built a new life in Alabama, repairing timepieces and avoiding her troubled past as she restores her customers' family heirlooms--treasures she never had. When a mysterious package arrives addressed to Teresa Baker, the name she abandoned, Tess finds herself drawn into a puzzle that threatens her delicate peace.

Then Elliot Sullivan appears at her door after eighteen years, and Tess knows he's after more than just forgiveness. She doesn't trust his motives, but he could be the key to uncovering the origin of the mystery package and its cryptic contents.

Tess has found safety in her simple life, but to reunite this lost heirloom with its rightful recipient she will have to come out of hiding. Each clue leads her further from the security of home, and each story reveals hidden truths. The question is whether she's brave enough to face what she might find--and whether the man beside her can be trusted with what matters most.

Reviewer: Mindy Houng

 “We have a choice between living in the present or drowning in the past.”

Amanda Cox really knows how to pen a poignant, moving, and tender women’s fiction. The third - person narrative employed in the story had a nostalgic, omniscient flavor underneath Tess’ actions, thoughts, and memories. Her backstory was painful and emotional; her coming to terms with her past and learning to bask in the blessings of the present felt satisfying and redemptive. Though we only saw Elliot through Tess’ eyes and memories, Elliot was a fully formed main character. His tender heart and way with people were endearing and charming. I loved experiencing a horologist at work; Tess setting broken watches and clocks to rights to allow her customers the gift of love and memory wrapped around the heirlooms was quite special. I really enjoyed the mystery watch and its stories that came to light through Tess and Elliot’s investigation. 

One of my favorite books of 2026! It’s perfect for those who love women’s fiction with depth. 

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

Reviewer: Elizabeth Eckmeyer

I have read just about everyone of Amanda Cox’s books and this one again does not disappoint! It is amazing how she can write a story that’s has history, romance, mystery, and suspense in every book. It is a page turner in every sense. 

Tess Holcomb has a secret. She isn’t who she says that she is. She came into town 18 years ago a scared newly adult. She was found by people who took her in and love her. She built a life for herself, always living through someone else. When an old friend comes into town and the delivery of a mysterious package, she has to dog deep to figure out how to combine her past with present to figure out who she is. 

Elliot Sullivan has grown up with privilege and prestige at a cost. When he was able to get away from his controlling father, he discovers who he is and what he always wanted. 

This story is about courage. Courage to be who we are and courage to not get stuck where we keep ourselves. It’s also about second chances and allowing ourselves to be happy. This is an incredible story. I highly recommend it. 

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

The Things We Cannot Keep by Amanda Cox is a contemporary romance. When I saw this book, I knew I had to have it. I love Cox’s stories so very much! I love the messages that she weaves throughout her novels. Like this message, even though I know it’s hard. Amos says this:

“Forgiveness sounds so nice and simple. Tidy. But a messy business for us mere mortals. People like to say forgiveness is for you, not the other person—that it sets you free from the hold they have spoke. To see beyond mistakes and offenses, to view them as a whole person. And to see yourself as more than the wounds you carry. To let go of the pain and leave space for God to work, knowing he wants redemption and healing for all involved.”

Wow! What a powerful reminder that if you don’t forgive, then it will just eat us alive and make us possibly bitter. But, its so hard to do! I understand where Tess is coming from. I had a similar experience, but I’m working on it.

Amos is the wise one here, and I love him for it.

This novel will not let you put it down until you’re finished. My heart was blown away by this one. I found myself crying, smiling, and rooting for Tess and Elliot, after what Amos gently reminded us of. Just wow is really all I need to say.

I love this story too because it shows people can change. Especially if you really, really love someone enough.

My heart went out to Tess and Elliot. Especially Tess, but each had their own pain to overcome and some lessons to learn along the way about finding out who they really are. You can run but not hide because the truth will always find you.

I wanted to leave you with another quote, and then I’ll close this review.

“Will you keep it?” From Elliot to Tess. “For now. But not for always.” 

“It was never meant to be kept. One day I’ll pass it on to someone who needs it. I’ll tell them of its long history of courageous people, and then I’ll let it go, still holding the stories close to my heart.” From Tess.

I won’t say what Tess is talking about. I’ll let y’all read this beautiful, heartfelt story to find out.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story, as I knew I would. It had everything that I’d expect from this author. I’m ready for the next one!

I’m giving this delightful story 5 stars! I was sad to see this novel end. I tried savoring it as much as I could, but unfortunately, you know what happened next, lol.

I received this book from Revell via Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley.