The Heart's Choice

Authors: Tracie Peterson/Kimberley Woodhouse
Genre: Historical Fiction
Series: The Jewels of Kalispell #1
Pages: 336
Release Date: May 23, 2023
Publisher: Bethany House

They must uncover the truth before it's buried forever.

After witnessing a wrongful conviction as a young girl, Rebecca Whitman--the first female court reporter in Montana--is now determined to defend the innocent. During a murder trial, something doesn't sit well with her about the case, but no one except the handsome new Carnegie librarian will listen to her.

Librarian Mark Andrews's father sent him to college hoping he would take over the business side of the family ranch, but Mark would rather wrangle books than cows. When a patron seeks help with research in hopes of proving a man's innocence, Mark is immediately drawn to her and her cause.

In a race against time, will Rebecca and Mark find the evidence they need--and open their hearts to love--before it's too late?

---

Reviewer: Conny Withay

“I just can’t abide another innocent man dying when I could do something about it,” Rebecca prays in Tracie Peterson’s and Kimberly Woodhouse’s novel, The Heart’s Choice.

The first book in the Jewels of Kalispell series, this three-hundred-and-thirty-six-page paperback targets those interested in a historical romance about a young couple learning to trust God to find the truth. With no profanity, topics involving physical abuse, murder, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending has notes from the authors, the authors’ biographies, and advertisements.

Set in the small town of Kalispell in the early 1900s, Rebecca Whitman is excited about her new position as the first female court reporter in Montana. Having witnessed a wrongful conviction as a young girl, she loves learning about the law and justice. When she meets Mark Andrew, the new librarian, the inquisitive woman finds him helpful in more than questioning a man’s innocence involving a murder.

With the backdrop of historical landmarks in Kalispell, this book focuses on the Carnegie Library, women’s suffrage, and the legal system. At the same time, the two protagonists search for their true selves. I loved that it explained the eternal plan of salvation, stressing faith, not works. The prayers to God and hymns showed how Christ was the story’s focal point as the two searched for answers to conflicting relationships and unexpected issues.

Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not like this story of staying true to oneself while uncovering a murder mystery. Others may not care for the nagging character who seemed to run the town, but she could be used well in another book in the series. The romance is predictable.

Including a map of the town and a list of characters in future books in the series may be helpful.

If you enjoy a Christian read about a man and woman making their mark in a rural town as they trust in God, this first book in a historical series has a refreshing blend of mystery and romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews. I was under no obligation to give a positive review.

---

---

Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise

From the stunning cover to the final pages, I thoroughly loved this novel. This writing team is one of the best for Historical Christian Fiction. The research was the backbone of this story and depicts the beginning of a new Carnegie Library in Kalispell, Montana, in 1904 and the fictional Rebecca Whitman, who became the state's first female court reporter.

The authors have spun a terrific tale of mystery, romance, faith, and courtroom drama that I will not soon forget. I loved the touch of humor with the small white dog and the fleshed-out characters. I am grateful for the clear gospel message this story contains.

The heroine was searching for the truth in the Bible and realized that a relationship with God, through Christ, can be personal. Other themes included reconciliation, being too busy to focus on family and relationships, and not being afraid to accept help from those older and wiser. Great lessons to learn from this entertaining read.

Put this one on your To Be Read pile.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the authors. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

---

---

Reviewer: Lori Parrish

It's an interesting read, for sure! Anything written by these ladies is always good!

I knew the moment I opened this book it would be awesome. In my opinion, there's nothing sweeter than books and libraries together.
Peterson and Woodhouse have added some twists and turns you won't see coming. This made me keep turning the pages to see what happened next. So realistic that it sometimes made my heart thump. 

A wonderful confession of faith was added in as well to make it that much more interesting. My favorite thing was the little tidbits of information on how this story came about. This story will keep your attention and leave you full and satisfied.

Thank you, Revell and Netgalley, for a copy of this wonderful adventure. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

---