Reviewer: Mindy Houng

 “The remedy isn’t to fix the old . . . it’s to accept the new. To see things as God sees—through the eyes of grace and love. That’s what a new heart does.”

No matter how many books by Susan May Warren I read, the author never fails to amaze me with her talent for writing fast-paced, adrenaline-infused stories packed with fantastic characters, wisdom from hard-fought faith, and tender romance. 

I particularly enjoyed the K-9s in this series and loved Orlando in this book. Jericho was a wonderful SMW hero, full of regrets, hurts, and pride, but finally arriving at the place of humility, surrender, and peace. Harley was a spitfire with her impulsive but keen detective instinct, intelligence, and tenacity. Their second chance romance was sweet and just right. I loved traveling down memory lane with them and soaking in the warmth and happiness before things imploded. 

The storyline continues to chase down the Sorros family, and this book shows that perhaps the villainous family is involved in more crimes than anyone suspected. The overarching story arc is not finished yet, so I’m looking forward to the next book. I really loved getting to know the Bowie brothers better and am hoping for a book with Hudson and Malachi as the main characters. 

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: Lori Parrish

“Sometimes all we need is someone to remind us who we are.”

Loved this quote from Harley. She’s a wise lady, and I love her quote to Jericho. 

This is my favorite book by Susan May Warren so far. Fast-paced action all the way through. I grew to love Harley, Winter, Harley, Torfu, Orlando and the rest of the crew.

I kept rooting for them too. They kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails in some parts. Others well.......those kisses? “Sigh,” y’all know what I mean.

I loved the dog’s name, Orlando. Too cute. He’s a pretty cool dog, all in all.

I really enjoyed the setting! The description was so vivid that I felt like I was there!

I finished this book in one evening it was so good.

I’ve always said there’s no place like home. But I also feel that it’s where the people you love that make it home too.

This story will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck wow! Love it!

5 stars for keeping my interest all the way through.

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

Author: Melanie Dobson
Genre: Dual-time Fiction
Pages: 384
Release Date: April 14, 2026
Publisher: Tyndale House Fiction

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.

Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise

“A good story is strong enough to save a life.” 

I am partial to dual-timeline stories, and Ms. Dobson is an expert at weaving the two times together. 

This is such a great story about a popular author, Via Belle, of the 1940s who goes missing after her second marriage. 

Harper in 2006 returns to a place she visited as a child and is caught up in the stories of Via Belle as she searches for a topic for a script that she wants to write. What she finds is a little romance and connections that are surprising. 

Especially interesting is the historical look at the life of an author from the past and her struggles with her faith and her newfound love. The descriptions of the house, gardens and lake that were an inspiration to Via put you right in the story. I began to care about the heroines in both timelines and cringed at the duplicity of the villain. All the mystery and subterfuge made for an exceptional story. 

You will want to put this on your list!

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

Reviewer: Adriann Harris

I have followed Melanie Dobson throughout her entire writing career, and can say without a doubt that her new novel, The Lost Story of Via Belle, is her best work thus far. Dobson, a master dual timeline storyteller, takes her readers on a multitude of whodunnits in this very intriguing Christian romantic mystery.

Dual timelines are sometimes difficult, as usually one timeline outshines the other, but Dobson proved to her readers, me included, that she could capture our attention and keep us totally engaged with her enthralling prose regardless of which era one prefers reading. I was spellbound by the women’s stories, and the building suspense kept me totally captivated to the astonishing end.

The Lost Story of Via Belle is an incredible, thought-provoking, character-driven story, which I highly recommend regardless of your genre preference.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale House Publishers via NetGalley through Interviews & Reviews. I was not obligated to write a favorable review, and all opinions are my own.

Reviewer: Mindy Houng

It is another amazing dual timeline historical fiction by Melanie Dobson that is melodic, heart-stirring, and thought-provoking. The author really knows how to transport her readers into her story world. 

I loved spending time in Haven House in Catawba, PA in the 1940s and in 2006 as well as in southern California in 2006. Olivia from the 1940s had a heart-broken and lost third person voice that left me with a nostalgic ache which never quite went away, even though she rediscovered her purpose and zest for life. 

Isadore had a naïve, and oftentimes an immature, romantic heart from the 1940s timeline which balanced out Olivia’s grief-worn one. Harper from 2006 was spunky, resilient, sarcastic, witty, and determined, even with life and circumstances trying to crush her. I loved that both Olivia and Harper had brilliantly creative minds that would wander, twirl, and dance with characters and stories and that they both had someone to keep them grounded in reality even while dreaming. I thoroughly enjoyed the bit of intrigue and suspense in the 1940s subplot that wove itself into the 2006 subplot. I never would have expected that kind of plot twist. 

If you enjoy beautifully written dual timeline historical fiction, this is a must read. 

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

Reviewer: Katie Slocum

“Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.”

Callie Murray has gifted us a story with undertones of faith alongside bravery, love, courage, and “hope in the face of uncertainty.” Through it all, the Brunswick Hotel, although “just a container,” is the central character that is immovable even as it adapts and conforms to hold a family and a town together amidst a brewing war.

Thoroughly researched, with a fascinating narrative and vivid characters, this story picked me up and swept me back to 1939. At the end of the prologue, I whispered a “wow,” and remained emotionally invested straight through to the epilogue, rendered blurry through my tears. Cara and Thomas, Billie and Anders, George and Evelyn, along with so many others, are heroes I will never forget.

What an amazing debut novel! I learned about some interesting pieces of WWII history, especially the Kindertransport to the United States, the people who made it happen, and the families who handed over their children in hope of a better future. I definitely want to look for the documentary of the true events that the author mentioned and read more about the children who were rescued. If you enjoy learning about lesser-known historical events, in a well-written yet easy-to-read format, with unforgettable people and places, do not miss The Brunswick!

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

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

The coolest debut novel ever! One I couldn’t put down and will wreak havoc on your emotions. I loved every minute of this book.

I loved these characters the moment I opened this book. I just had that immediate connection.

I really enjoyed getting to know Cora Cain. I think, in my opinion, she’s a woman before her time.

A true tale of courage, love, friendship, and a little romance had me quickly turning the pages until it was finished.

It’s the choices we make that can define us and make us who we are during hard times or easy times. 

Callie Murray has done a wonderful job of bringing these characters to life and shows us that our struggles aren’t that much different from the characters in this book.

It is a heartfelt story right down to your toes. Meaning a satisfying read.

5 stars for an amazing journey back in time to when the war in Europe came to America. I was glued to my seat all the way through.

What a beautiful cover! I love the house!

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

Author: Becca Kinzer
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages:352
Release Date: April 21, 2026
Publisher: Tyndale House Fiction

This is absolutely not how they pictured their summer going.

McKenna Boston is feeling stuck. She’s spent years growing her photography skills only for her career to hit a wall. She’s ready to move on, and she will, just as soon as she helps her sister’s boyfriend stage the perfect proposal. But when her best laid plans go awry and a handsome stranger accidentally ends up with the heirloom ring, McKenna hops on a flight to retrieve it. Piece of cake, right?

Nate Lambert was hoping to enjoy a relaxing summer before starting his new job as a literature professor, but he arrives in Tennessee to discover his mom’s bed and breakfast is struggling and there’s a long list of repairs to be tackled. The last thing he needs is a gorgeous, determined photographer searching for a ring he doesn’t have since the airline lost his luggage somewhere on his route from Nebraska.

With the ring nowhere to be found, all McKenna can do is wait and use the time to build her portfolio and plan her next career move. But she also can’t help getting swept up in Nate’s bed and breakfast renovations and in planning a community concert with the townsfolk. As both await news of Nate’s suitcase, it begins to seem their serendipitous meeting, and the proposal gone wrong, could actually be everything going right . . . and that this may be their chance at a love neither could have pictured.

Reviewer: Tammy Lunsford

The saying that “if anything can go wrong, it will go wrong”,  will take on new meaning with the many failed proposal attempts between Oliver and Bobbi. Bobbi’s sister, McKenna, would do anything for Bobbi. She feels responsible for Bobbi, more like a mother than a sister. After the last disastrous proposal attempt, McKenna realizes she has lost the heirloom engagement ring. She holds her newest friend (or foe), Nate Lambert, responsible for the latest epic fail. Their initial meeting was hilarious. This failed proposal was a doozy. But she has to put aside her dislike for Nate because he has the ring, even though he does not know it. McKenna is high strung and is hanging on by a thread as she heads to Tennessee.

When she arrives in Tennessee at Nate’s mother’s bed-and-breakfast, she lands in the middle of chaos multiplied times fifty. This crew of friends were quirky and more than a little strange, but they loved each other and protected one another. McKenna’s panic levels are not helping the situation.

This was not your average bed-and-breakfast. Trust me. It was more like a zoo, including animals and people.  

This story was also emotional at times as McKenna and Nate began to share their life stories. I wanted to reach into the book and give them both a hug.

I really wanted to throttle Oliver the entire time, and Bobbi was right up there with him several times. For two highly intelligent people, these two were rather obtuse.

Overall, the book was a hit for me, even with slightly confusing and somewhat crazy characters. The book’s ending sealed the deal for me. The author really hit a high note for me with that swoon worthy ending.

Thank you to Tyndale Publishing, through Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Author: Emily G. Watson
Genre: Young Adult
Series: Arualian Archives #1
Pages: 361
Release Date: August 1, 2025
Publisher: Thistle-Bound Books

How far would you go to save your family?

When the kingdom of Arualia is attacked, the king falls victim to a deadly poison. Now his children must go on a quest to find a cure, following the words of an ancient prophecy and a map of unknown origins. But fulfilling the prophecy will lead to more than they could ever have imagined as they journey to the edge of the world - and beyond.

Here lies a world of forgotten legends and ancient history that may just hold the clues they need to find the cure. But the enemy is close at hand, and he will stop at nothing to prevent them from finding it. And if they can't get it in time, it will be the end not just for them but for the entire kingdom as well.

Reviewer: Diana Lea

In Prophecy’s Heirs, the first book in Emily G. Watson’s Arualian Archives series, we meet Crown Prince Walter, Princess Airdella, and their younger sister Amy. When their country is under threat of war, the three siblings are sent to spend the summer with Sir Dorrian, a retired knight. Away from the comforts of castle life and servants, the royal children learn hands-on skills, knightly training, and practical self-reliance. This summer of training shifts into an adventure-filled quest when the children find a mysterious prophecy and an ancient map. They decide to journey north through their father’s kingdom. Along the way, they encounter mysteries, danger, and creatures from ancient lore. I especially liked the interactions between Walter and the helpful citizens of the kingdom, knowing that if the quest was a favorable one, Walter would later serve these townsfolk as their king.

I just kept on thinking about what character-building experiences the three of them were having. Walter steps up as a natural, calm, and insightful leader. Airdella moves from emotional and competitive to genuinely capable and determined. Eleven-year-old Amy was my favorite. She gradually comes out of her shell, gaining quiet confidence and boldly refusing to let anyone hold her back. She proved herself to be the encourager of the group. She also shares precise tidbits of mythical knowledge that prove essential to their quest’s success.

The pacing is excellent, with just the right balance of dialogue, inner thoughts, action, and humorous moments. The prophecy is referenced naturally during strategizing, so the significance of newly revealed information falls into place. 

As their quest continues, the children meet Elroy, the Chief of the Guardians—an all-knowing provider. Elroy in this story gave me a similar experience as when I read about Aslan in The Chronicles of Narnia series.

Prophecy’s Heirs is a well-written, engaging adventure—perfect for middle-grade to young teen readers. It would also be perfect for family read-aloud time. I can also see it as part of a unit study for those who homeschool.

I highly recommend it for anyone seeking adventurous fantasy with heart and subtle spiritual depth. As a Grandma I can see all of my grandchildren enjoying this story.

I received a complimentary copy from Thistle-Bound Books via Interviews & Reviews for my honest review.

Author: Susan Kimmel Wright
Genre: Mystery/Suspense
Series: Mysteries of Medicine Spring #5
Pages: 320
Release Date: March 5, 2026
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink

Mabel plans to bring the joys of volunteering to the masses...if she doesn't call victim to an ancient curse first.

A university archeology team has come to excavate an old privy on the grounds of the Thompson estate, home of Medicine Spring's first white settler. They hope to retrieve items of historic interest, but rumors of lost treasure and dark curses swirl around the project.

Mabel has joined the dig as a volunteer, despite her reluctance to touch anything collected from the ancient outhouse pit. It doesn't take long, however, before she realizes a few dirt encrusted artifacts are the least of her worries.

She doesn't believe in curses, but accidents and misfortune plague team members, including Mabel herself. She begins to wonder if there might be some truth in the old stories. When a body turns up on the site, it appears the curse has transformed from local legend into deadly reality.

Will Mabel be its next victim?

Reviewer: Beverly Laude

If you are a fan of well-written cozy mysteries with great characters, you can’t go wrong with the Mysteries of Medicine Spring books. Mabel Browne is still working on her book about the joys of being a volunteer, so she is always on the hunt for more volunteer opportunities.

A university archeology team is coming to town to excavate at the Thompson estate. But, they aren’t going to dig at the location of the actual house, but at the site of the privy! Who would have thought that an old outhouse might hold hidden treasures?

There are rumors about an Indian treasure, as well as the Thompson family treasure. Then, there is the supposed Indian curse surrounding the treasure. When things start happening at the excavation site, Mabel is asked to try to find out what is really happening.

The book is full of the mandatory elements of a cozy mystery: an amateur sleuth, a few animal companions, a bit of romance, and great side characters. I especially enjoyed the two local octogenarians, Miss Birdie and Katherine Ann, who seem to know everything going on in town. Throw in family secrets, a privy pirate or two (I love this description!) and a dead body, and you have a fun read!

The book is also full of humorous moments, and I especially love this quote: “Sometimes you’ve gotta act like a turtle and stick out your neck to get anywhere.” 

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Mountain Brook Ink through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

This book looked interesting, and I really admired the cover of the book. In all honesty, it was the cover that sold me.

Was I disappointed? No.

It was a delightful read until the end. I finished this in late evening, it was so good.

I found some of this cute and humorous at times, while others just had me shaking my head.

I loved getting to know the citizens themselves, especially the two oldest ladies in town, Miss Birdie and Miss Katherine. Sometimes those two tickled me. In my opinion, they made the story fun.

Mabel was a hoot, too. I really loved in getting acquainted with her. It seems she has a knack for knowing when you need her.

Lots of sleuthing going on, which I absolutely adored. I loved guessing games.

I hated to see this adventure end. The author did a wonderful job of keeping my interest all the way through. I highly recommend!

5 stars for a job well done!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Mountain Brook Ink for my honest opinion.

Reviewer: Elizabeth Eckmeyer

I can’t tell you how excited I was to be back again with Mabel and her friends for another mystery! From the minute you enter Medicine Springs, you are brought to a town of funny characters and excitement you're never quite prepared for.

Mabel is still an unemployed writer who is still cleaning out her grandmother’s home. An excitement in town is a Privy dig at an old farmland of the founder in town. With this beings divide to the town and a circus of people to help with the dig. 

Much to everyone’s surprise after drama with two men involved with the dig a body is found. This brings Mabel and her friends back together again to solve a murder and clear her friend of any negative involvement with the town Privy. 

I absolutely love these Mabel mysteries. I laugh the entire time I’m reading the story, on top of ingesting page after page of trying to figure out what’s next. From the staple town characters to the new characters, this particular book keeps you longing for more! 

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

Reviewer: Ewurabena Wilson

There are books which are timeless classics. Chase the Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of them!

There is a never a dull moment with Suzanne Woods Fisher books. One can expect a book which is well researched with relatable characters, and a good dose of timely Christian message. Chase the Light, Suzanne Woods Fisher’s latest novel, delivers all of this.

Magnolia Pearl ‘Scout’ Johnson is an interpretive ranger working at Acadia National Park, Maine. A normal trip leads to the discovery of an envelope with interesting information about a lost ship carrying gold coins. This discovery begins an adventure which is not just a normal adventure but also a spiritual adventure. Suzanne Woods Fisher is crafty in the incorporation of other characters like Frankie and Maisie, Wabanaki Dana and Chase Fletcher. I really liked Maisie; she should have the chance to have a story of her own.

What made me love reading this novel was about the themes of second chances, letting go of the past, and yes, the hunt for gold. The characters were portrayed as not perfect, especially Chase, who got me wanting me to give him a nice sit down. 

Scout's parents were annoying, and so was Frankie, but each character’s flaw showed the frailty of humans and how light can create an awareness of our selfishness, prejudice, and manipulation. I highly recommend this novel to the fans of Suzanne Woods Fisher and anyone who is looking for a faith-filled adventure book to read.

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

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

I felt sorry for Scout with her real name! I’d want the name Scout too. Besides, it fits her with her job description and all.

I laughed in some places, that being one of them. This book was so very fun to read! I learned so much from Naki, and I loved getting to know him too.

The one I didn’t like was Chase Fletcher. Ugh! Horrible man. Poor Scout, and that is all I’ll say.

Scout’s mom was a hoot. She tickled me pink. A real Southern lady, that woman.

But I left the story feeling full and satisfied. Whenever I read Fisher’s books, I always am.

I love her messages throughout this story and other she’s written

Maisie is the one I felt sorry for. She’s a great kid, though.

I finished this book in one evening. Scout and Naki didn’t want me to put this beautiful story down.

I savored this one as long as I could and was sad to see it end.

I sure hope there’s more adventures coming in the National Park series!

I loved this adventure, who wouldn’t! Lots of great stuff going on in here!

5 stars for a job well done!

A wonderful adventure that I thoroughly enjoyed!

I received this book courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley for my honest opinion.

Author: Jen Turano
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies #2
Pages: 304
Release Date: April 21, 2026
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

LESSON TWO: Become headmistress and expect to find yourself partnering with an attractive inventor to search for treasure.

Annaliese Merriweather has been appointed the temporary headmistress of the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies while her sister is on her honeymoon, but she doesn't feel cut out for the role. Especially after she loses two of her most troublesome students during an outing to a county fair and has to recruit the help of Seth McCormick, an eccentric inventor, to retrieve them.

Soon after, one of those mischievous students disappears again, intent on pursuing a pirate map. Together, Annaliese and Seth set out to find her, accompanied by a menagerie of Annaliese's rescued animal companions. As they stumble from one chaotic situation to the next, sparks fly between Annaliese and Seth. Somehow, they'll need to outwit dangerous individuals also intent on seeking the treasure and bring everyone back in one piece--all while deciphering what their hearts desire.

Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise

Jen Turano always tickles my funny bone with the antics of her characters, whether they be human or animals. 

In the case of In Pursuit of Civility, the heroine, Annalise, has a boatload of trouble while in that pursuit. Annalise is serious about freeing animals from certain demise. Case in point: her aversion to fur and feather hunters or animals being mistreated in Fairs or Circuses. Hence, she has three attack ferrets, a pickpocket monkey, and various other so-called pets. Her role in The Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies is Decorum Instructor, but she is doomed to failure when her charges run off. 

Seth McCormick, whose sister Norma Jean, is one of the young ladies, is an inventor of very curious and sometimes hilarious items, such as a skunk scent deterrent designed for the young ladies’ protection. You can imagine the chaos that is the result. What an unconventional romance with Annalise this turns out to be when a present that Annalise welcomes is a habitat for her bugs and spiders and a spider sack to put in it. 

There is not a dull moment in this book with runaways, a missing aunt, and a treasure hunt, not to mention meddling mothers and young ladies alike. 

I love Ms. Turano’s turn of phrase and the stream of consciousness dialogue. While this can be read as a standalone, the first book sets up the series nicely, and who would want to miss the first book with more mischief and mayhem? 

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.

Reviewer: Diana Lea

The Pursuit of Civility is the second book in the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series by Jen Turano. As with the first book, Turano fills this story with lively characters and unexpected situations.

I always look forward to Turano’s books for her sense of humor, and this installment offered witty responses to the constant troubles that seem to follow the ladies of Merriweather Academy.

The main story centers on Annaliese and her suitor, Seth. They make an unconventional pair—Annaliese with her many beloved animals and Seth as an inventor of mostly useful gadgets. Seth’s inventions added several fun moments throughout the story and often helped move the plot along in unexpected ways.

A particularly entertaining addition to the cast is Norma Jean, a feisty thirteen-year-old student whose rebellious antics create more than one complication for the adults trying to keep order. When Norma Jean runs away, Annaliese and Seth set out to find her, leading them into a search that also reveals new clues about Annaliese’s long-missing Aunt Ottilie—an ongoing mystery in the series.

Readers who enjoy seeing women pursue their interests and ambitions during the Gilded Age, animal-loving heroines, and lighthearted adventures—along with Turano’s signature style of humor—will likely enjoy this continuation of the Merriweather Academy series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley and Interview & Reviews. Opinions here are my own. 

Reviewer: Laura J. Davis

The Pursuit of Civility by Jen Turano is a lively historical romance that takes readers once again to Merriweather Academy, where we quickly learn how difficult it is for Annaliese Merriweather (the temporary headmistress) to handle teenage girls.

The cast of characters includes Seth McCormick, who is an inventor born way before his time. His sister, Norma Jean, would be considered a juvenile delinquent by modern standards. She causes so much trouble that Annaliese and Seth are forced to chase her to Florida when she suddenly runs away, seeming to join the circus. I will not give you the details on what she was up to, but the journey is hilarious and full of ridiculous antics.

While I am sure many will enjoy this story, for me it was a struggle to get through. There was too much dialogue and not enough description. The entire book felt like the author sat down and let her characters run loose on the page without ever reigning them in. Therefore, it resulted in conversations that were about the same thing for several pages, and it became tedious to finish reading. But, I plowed through and was pleased with the ending.

If you like madcap adventures with a lot of dialogue, you may enjoy The Pursuit of Civility.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley for my honest opinion.

Reviewer: Mindy Houng

“True love is the daily dying to yourself, ensuring the comfort and well-being of the one you love, even if that means sacrificing your own wants and desires.”

This is book 7 in the Timeless series and I did not think the author could surprise me at this point but she indeed threw in mind-bending plot twists along the way to make the book as exciting, fresh, and captivating as the first book. I loved being in 1849 San Francisco as the gold rush picked up, and I equally loved being in 1929 Hollywood during the advent of sound and color in the world of film. Ally was quite delightful in both timelines. Her fierce loyalty, intelligence, grit, and compassion made her a memorable heroine. A teacher in 1849 and an A-list actress in 1929, Ally somehow was true to herself despite such vast differences in circumstances. Sam from 1849 was a treasure and Spencer from 1929 was fun.

You can read this book as a stand-alone, but I did enjoy connecting the dots with the secondary characters in this book who have appeared in previous books in the series.

If you enjoy historical fiction with the added bonus of time-crossing, you will absolutely love this book. It is well-written with fantastic characters, a fast-moving plotline, great plot twists, heartfelt romance, and deeply inspiring faith. One of my favorite books of 2026!

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

Reviewer: Jeanette Durkin

More than 5 stars for this fantastic book! I was so immersed in the story that I read it in a few days! The two timelines are the late 1800s in San Francisco around the time of the Gold Rush and the early 1900s in Hollywood when talking pictures are making their debut!

I say this with every book that I’ve read by Gabrielle but these characters are my favorite! I adore Ally in both time periods. She is a woman with incredible strength: physical and mental. She’s compassionate and extremely loyal to her family and friends. Sam is complex. He has lived a very troublesome life that has left him hardened. He is a protector, he loves his family and his faith in God is strong. Johnnie touched my heart the most. He lost so much in his short life, but he was also blessed with a new family and the promise of a bright future!

I enjoyed the film that Ally stars in during the Hollywood time period. Little Women is one of my favorite books and movies!

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

Reviewer: Laura J. Davis

Into a Golden Era by Gabrielle Meyer is sadly the last book in the Timeless series, and I am sad to see it end. Like all the books in this series, the author has done her research and created a story full of intrigue, romance, and suspense.

In this final book, we are transported via Ally to 1849 and 1929. As always, the time-travelling character has to make a choice about which timeline she will leave. For Ally, she must decide by her 25th birthday. The stakes are high in both timelines, as are the love interests, so she faces a difficult decision. 

If you have read none of the books in the series, don’t worry. This can be read as a standalone. However, I highly recommend reading the whole series.

If you enjoy time-travelling, romance novels with impeccable research, you will love Into a Golden Era.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley for my honest review.

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

I honestly hope this isn’t the last book in this series. I’ve enjoyed it so much!

For Ally, it has to be hard living in two different times and having to lose one. I think I like 1849 better. It has more historical meaning. I learned much from that era.

I know what I’d choose. 1849. History is fascinating!

Here’s a quote that I’d like to share

“Your character is the most important determiner of your reputation. If you let people in, let them know the real Sam Kendal, they will have no choice but to like you and trust you.”

That’s some awesome advice, isn’t it?

A difficult lesson to learn, but an important one. It’s why I love this quote.

There were a few people that I didn’t care for. Victoria being one. On one hand I felt sorry for her but on the other I don’t know. Jealousy gets the best of us sometimes.

I really learned a lot from 1929, too.

From watching the movies, I knew where all the places described were. I loved imagining being there with Ally and her family.

I just finished this wonderful novel. It will hold you captivated until the end.

I’m hoping there will be more time crossing books. I was sad but satisfied when this story ended.

This is the best series ever! I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars! It deserves it!

I received this book from Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley for my honest opinion.

Reviewer: Katelyn Sponaugle

What a fun read! I have anxiously awaited my chance to read and review this book since I read the excerpt for it in the last one. It did not disappoint! Many fun plot twists and such a tender romance. I was fully invested and enjoyed the story through every stage.

Into a Golden Era, and the series as a whole,  gives a unique perspective on truly trusting God and relinquishing our illusion of control in our circumstances. I appreciate the theme of faith woven into an excellent and interesting plot.

I have absolutely loved watching the Timeless series grow. The Timeless family tree has become an intricately detailed web, and I LOVE hearing tidbits about them from across the ages as I read each new book. It’s quite remarkable to see how the details are woven together. This book mentions several main characters from previous books, and is based on some family we met briefly in For a Lifetime, which was exciting  It’s been so fun to watch Gabrielle Meyer grow as an author and watch the Timeless books take on a life of their own. Although this book was the 7th installment, it was full of fresh twists. I’m very much looking forward to book 8!

I absolutely recommend you read Into a Golden Era, but be sure not to miss out on the rest of the series as well! These books are a real treasure, and I’ve read many of them multiple times!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. 

Author: Eleanor Bertin
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Burning Bright #2
Pages: 287
Release Date: February 21, 2024
Publisher: Leaf & Blade Publishing

When a woman disappears, Ryan’s past makes him a suspect.

Party animal Ryan Hainstock has made an about-face. He’s now an elder-caring, money-saving, church-going man with bright plans to set himself up farming. Somehow, whether he rates with her or not, those plans always include sweet and smart Lynnie Min and her young daughter. Problem is, Ryan’s past keeps coming back to condemn him.

Lynnie Min, too young for the title of widow, travels the lonely road of single motherhood in a rural community. Her dreams were crushed by tragedy when terrorists claimed the lives of her husband and one of her daughters. While gratitude should fill her heart for the presence of three-year-old Anya, a longing for something more stirs within her. She can’t help noticing the changes in Ryan, a man she once knew as a high school jock.

While their affection deepens, greater forces conspire to destroy their growing love. A murder charge, a kidnapping, a child abandoned…Can Ryan and Lynnie overcome danger and distrust to find each other again?

Reviewer: Anna Bottoms

I was pulled right into this book from the very beginning. The themes of redemption and trust woven through the story connected me to the characters. Can we trust ourselves when all we see are the mistakes of our past leaving dirt on the path behind us? Do we dare trust in the redemption that belongs to every believer in Christ?

Ryan has lived a rough life, full of drinking, fighting, and hopelessness until he meets the One who can save him from himself. His problem is that when he looks in the mirror, all he sees are his past sins, not the man he is becoming.

Lynnie has lost her husband and one of her daughters. Now she’s back home with her one remaining daughter, putting her life back together, and trusting God every step of the way. But even she has doubts when Ryan is accused of a heinous crime. 

I found the romance to be sweet and satisfying, the suspense palpable, but that was secondary to the overall message. This was one of the best redemption stories I’ve read. It touched my heart just like it touched all the character’s lives, including side characters who had their own things to deal with. They were real, they struggled, and this made everything believable.

I was given a copy courtesy of the author through Interviews & Reviews, and this is my honest opinion of the book. I will return to this book and highly recommend it.