An Unexpected Grace by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse

 An Unexpected Grace

Book Summary

Can unexpected grace lay the foundation for a second chance at love?

After a decade away, Parker Bennett returns home with a traveling troupe to perform a play based on Uncle Tom's Cabin at the Kalispell Opera House. Parker has relished his life on the road, but being home awakens long-buried emotions when he encounters his first love, Johanna St. John. He can't help but wonder if there might still be a place for him in her heart.

Widowed for three years, Johanna devotes all her time to a demanding toddler, an injured father, and a successful millinery business. After the loss of her husband, she desires to move on, but reconnecting with her past love leaves her unsure of what lies ahead. Both committed to God's distinct calling on their lives, Johanna and Parker struggle to see how their futures can unite, and when strange things start happening around town, their second chance at a life together seems more unlikely than ever.

Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse present another journey to the American Frontier with themes of second chances and the enduring power of grace despite life's trials. An Unexpected Grace makes a compelling read for fans of Christian romance novels, exploring love through the lens of faith.

My Thoughts

An Unexpected Grace by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is an uplifting second chance romance.  There is suspense courtesy of a wicked brother-in-law who will use any means necessary to get what he wants. I like the authors’ writing style. I found myself slowly being drawn into the story. I liked Joanna, who grew up in the ten years since she last saw Parker. She is a strong, determined, and creative woman. Joanna creates stylish hats for the ladies of the town (the hats during this time period were beautiful). I liked that Joanna had matured in character and faith.  Emily is a busy yet adorable child.  She managed to wrap Parker around her little finger. Marvella is a great character.  She added humor to the story.  

Faith is prominent throughout the story as well as hope and healing. I wish, though, that the plot had not followed a foreseeable path and there had been less reiteration.  The story has a good message and an ending that left me smiling.  An Unexpected Grace is a pleasing conclusion to The Jewels of Kalispell series. An Unexpected Grace is a touching tale with a blackguard brother-in-law, a rambunctious child, attractive chapeaus, a traveling troupe, a flirtatious Frenchwoman, and a gracious God. 

Sears & Roebuck Catalog 1902

An Unexpected Grace is available from Amazon.  The first two books in The Jewels of Kalispell series are The Heart's Choice and With Each Tomorrow.  You can find Tracie Peterson's other novels here and Kimberley Woodhouse's books here.  Kimberley Woodhouse has A Song in the Dark coming out September 23.  Tracie Peterson has A Moment to Love releasing on October 21.  It is the third book in The Hope of Cheyenne series.  Thank you for joining me today.  I will return tomorrow with my thoughts about A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano.  I was thrilled this weekend when a new roof was put on our home.  I no longer need to worry about rain coming in and destroying the walls and ceilings.  The carport (and my new porch) is next, but I need to wait three more weeks. The permits have not come through yet (a norm since the two hurricanes last year). I will be glad when the destruction caused by Hurricane Milton is in my rearview mirror.  I hope that you have a day filled with joy.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Shot Through the Book by Eva Gates

 Shot Through the Book

Book Summary

In the twelfth installment of the Lighthouse Library mysteries, Lucy McNeil is back on the case, but this time she’s on the case alone.

The upcoming YA book festival at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library is bringing in renowned authors from all over the world. When best selling author Todd Harrison unexpectedly visits librarian Lucy McNeil at her Outer Banks beach house after a meeting, she is puzzled by his presence, since they’re virtually strangers. After she steps inside to get him a drink, she’s shocked to discover that he’s been murdered on her deck in the few minutes she left him alone. 

Not knowing why he wanted to meet with her in private, or how someone managed to kill him in the time it takes to make lemonade, Lucy is determined to help with the investigation and figure out what happened. WhenHeather Harrison, Todd’s widow, shows up in town, her motivations aren’t inspired by grief. She’s intending to use her husband’s tragic death to launch her candidacy for state senator and her first order of business is to go after the local police force–and Lucy herself.

Caught between an intrusive fan club mourning Todd, squabbling authors fighting for prominence in his absence, and a politically ruthless widow, Lucy must roll up her sleeves and and catch the killer before the chapter closes on justice.

My Thoughts

Shot Through the Book by Eva Gates has Lucy with an unusual mystery on her hands.  I enjoy my visits to Bodie Island where I get to catch up with Lucy, Connor, and the library crew.  Let us not forget Charles who is a great judge of character.  I like the author’s writing style which makes the story easy to read.  The mystery begins in the first chapter.  Lucy, naturally, finds herself drawn into the crime.  Unfortunately, a speed bump in the form of the victim’s wife put up a roadblock between the police department and Lucy.  Lucy cannot help it if information comes her way and this information may lead her to ask a few questions.  I liked the unique murder weapon.  

The victim’s wife and his fan club make life difficult for the mayor and wife until the case is resolved.  The mystery has a good wrap up at the end.  I had guessed what was going to be revealed at the end, but I still enjoyed the moment the news was announced. While Shot Through the Book is the twelfth A Lighthouse Library Mystery, it can be read on its own.  It is Through sad that our favorite detective is retiring, and his replacement does not seem open to working with Lucy.  Changes are ahead and I cannot wait to see what happens next.  Shot Through the Book transports readers to the Outer Banks where there is a peculiar murder, dramatic teens, a mudslinging spouse, a problem with the police, naughty trespassers, unsettling tittle-tattle, and a surprise revelation. 

Outer Banks Little Libraries

Shot Through the Book is available from Amazon.  You can find the other novels in A Lighthouse Library Mysteries here.  Eva Gates is  the non de plume for Vicki Delany.  You can find Vicki Delany's books here.  Vicki Delany has O, Deadly Night coming out October 14.  It is the eighth book in A Year-Round Christmas Mysteries. Thank you for stopping by today.  I will be taking the rest of the week off.  My mother needs a little extra care this week.  I will be back on Tuesday, May 20 with An Unexpected Grace by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse.  It is the third book in The Jewels of Kalispell series.  I hope that you have a happy day and a fun weekend. Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

The Shop Down the Lane by Leslie Gould

 The Shop Down the Lane

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Shop Down the Lane by Leslie Gould, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Shop Down the Lane
Series: Letters from Lancaster County
Author: Leslie Gould
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Genre: Amish Romance

Leslie Gould delights in this sweet and humorous Amish romance reminiscent of The Shop Around the Corner and You've Got Mail. 

Lois Yoder has always found solace in the quiet life of Paradise, Pennsylvania, where she manages a gift shop that reflects her Amish community's simple values. Her tranquil world is upended when Moses Lantz, a former Amishman turned Mennonite and the man who broke her heart, buys the shop with ambitious plans to transform it into a tourist hub--a move that Lois fiercely opposes. 

Seeking a distraction, Lois joins a bird watchers' circle letter under an alias. But unknown to her, Moses does the same at the urging of a friend. While their correspondence blossoms into a tender romance, the enmity between Lois and Moses in real life only intensifies. Can they overcome their animosity and embrace the love they've found through their letters, or will their stubborn hearts keep them apart forever? 

This heartwarming Amish romance includes themes of bird watching, correspondence by letters, enemies to lovers, and family secrets for readers of Beverly Lewis, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and Shelley Shepard Gray.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Bethany House | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available:

   

---

About the Author

Leslie Gould is a Christy Award-winning and #1 bestselling author of more than 48 novels, including four Lancaster County Amish series. She holds a bachelor's degree in history and an MFA in creative writing. She enjoys church history, research trips, and hiking in the Pacific Northwest. She and her husband live in Portland, Oregon, and have four adult children and two grandchildren.

Connect with Leslie by visiting lesliegould.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

---

My Thoughts

The Shop Down the Lane by Leslie Gould is a charming story.  I thought the book was well written with developed main characters. The characters are complex, realistic, and likeable.  I enjoyed getting to know Lois Yoder and Moses Lantz.  Paradise Found, the gift shop where Lois worked, and that Moses purchased sounded like a delightful place thanks to Lois (a shop that I would love to visit).  I especially loved the special tree display with the crocheted birds and the birdhouses hanging from the branches. I liked the bird watching aspect.  I have bird feeders in my yard, and I enjoy seeing the different types of birds that visit (we also have a pond in our village, and we get some unique aquatic birds).  

The bird descriptions were striking which allowed me to visualize them.  It was interesting learning about circle letters. It made curious about how many different types of circle letters there are for the Amish.  I can tell that the author did her research for this book.  The Shop Down the Lane is a story full of emotion.  The author’s vivid descriptions allowed me to envision the scenes.  I could picture Lois zipping along on her scooter.  I am looking forward to the next book in the Letters from Lancaster County series.  The Shop Down the Lane is a special Amish story with a blast from the past, a sold shop, circle letters, a soaring scooter, observing birds, courting troubles, and a hopeful future.

---

Excerpt

“How’s the birding going?”

“Gut.” She clasped her hands together. “How did you know I bird?”

“I saw you at the park last week with your bins.”

That was birding slang for binoculars. She tilted her head. “Do you bird?”

He laughed. “Oh no.”

“Oh.” She hadn’t taken John for a birder, although it was common among the Amish.

Personally, she tried not to be obvious about her bird obsession. In fact, she did her best to

hide it, not taking her binoculars from her backpack until she was at her birding destination.

Her brother didn’t think it an appealing look for someone who needed to find a husband.

Thankfully, the bird-themed items in the shop were top sellers. She ordered them not because

she liked them but because they brought in money, which ensured she had a job. “I don’t bird

much,” Lois said. At least not as much as she wished she could.

“That’s good to hear.”

Her heart fell. Not only did he not bird, but he wasn’t positive about it either.

John cleared his throat, wiped his palms on his pants, and asked, “Would you go to the

singing on Sunday at our place with me? Mark and a girl he’s dating plan to go too.” He

spoke quickly. “We can double date. We’ll pick you up at five after we pick up Evelyn.”

Lois tilted her head again. Was John Miller actually asking her out? She stepped to the

counter and repositioned a stack of gift bags. Jah, she was stalling. Just for a moment.

Lois raised her head and met John’s gaze. “Denki,” she said. “May I tell you Sunday at

church?”

He frowned. “I guess so.” Perhaps she should tell him no now, so he could invite someone

else. But what if he intended to court her? Could she be interested in John? She wasn’t sure.

She needed more time to decide before she went on a date with him.

He took a step backward, raised his hat a little, and waved with his free hand. “See you at

church.”

She nodded. “See you then.”

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and a print copy of The Shop Down the Lane!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 13, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 20, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

---

The Shop Down the Lane is available from Amazon.  You can find Leslie Gould's other novels here.  If you follow Leslie Gould on Amazon, they will send you an email when she has a new book release.  Thank you for joining me today.  On Wednesday, May 14, I will be sharing my thoughts on Shot Through the Book by Eva Gates.  It is the twelfth A Lighthouse Library Mystery.  Don't forget to enter the giveaway!  Good Luck!  I hope that you have a lovely spring day. I am off to take down my windchimes (and the inflatables, move the golf cart, etc.).  The roofers are coming on Saturday (hooray!) and the people rebuilding my carport will be here on Monday.  I am looking forward to the new screen porch. I bet my cat, Dickens will enjoy it as well.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

The Marriage Pact by Kathleen Fuller

 The Marriage Pact

Book Summary

Perry and Daisy's fake relationship is fooling everyone . . . but they're the ones who might be getting fooled.

When Daisy Hershberger and Perry Bontrager meet, they discover they have one thing in common: both their families are way too eager to see them matched with the person of their dreams. Daisy is convinced that Maynard is the one for her, but her parents have their doubts. And Perry? His family wonders if there's anyone out there for a quirky guy like him. He's also certain that some people--himself included--are destined to be single for life.

After comparing notes, Perry and Daisy agree to a pact. He'll help her make Maynard realize what he's missing, and she'll pretend to be Perry's love interest to keep his matchmaking mother satisfied. For a while, their pact seems to be working.

Maybe their imagined futures aren't exactly what fairy tales are made of, but they're committed to their plan . . . until they realize that a real-life fairy tale is happening where they least expect it. Sometimes, you don't have to pretend to be anything but yourself in order for love to find you.

The final book in the Amish of Marigold series is a heartwarming, cozy inspirational romance featuring a pretend relationship and plenty of small-town charm. A perfect read for fans of Beverly Lewis and Suzanne Woods Fisher.

My Thoughts

The Marriage Pact by Kathleen Fuller is the third and final An Amish of Marigold Novel.  This story can be read as a standalone for those new to the series, but you will want to read all the books in this cute series.  I like Kathleen Fuller’s writing style.  It is friendly and engaging.  I was quickly drawn into the story. The prologue had me chuckling.  I like Daisy Hershberger and Perry Bontrager.  Ferman Eash was a delight.  There was more to the crusty old widower than meets the eye.  Lady, the butterfly, was special (almost like a pet).  Perry has a large, boisterous family.  I could relate to him needing to go off alone in the middle of a family gathering (I would find a quiet corner to read—I always have a book or ereader with me).  Perry’s hobby was special.  He liked to observe butterflies, draw them, and he helped wounded butterflies.  The author’s vivid descriptions allowed me to visualize Perry’s unique guest room. I ended The Marriage Pact with a smile on my face (but sad that this series is over).  

The Marriage Pact is available from Amazon.  The first two books An Amish of Marigold Novels are The Courtship Plan and The Proposal Plot. You can find Kathleen Fuller's other novels here.  Thank you for joining me today!  I will return on Tuesday, May 13 with The Shop Down the Lane by Leslie Gould. It is the first book in the Letters from Lancaster County series. I hope that you have a restful weekend.  I will be working on a rock garden that I am installing in front of our three-season porch (it will feature metal birds when I do not have inflatables up).  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Hounding a Killer by Kallie E. Benjamin

 Hounding a Killer

Book Summary

It’s chaos in Crosbyville when someone tries to swindle a large inheritance, but as Pris and Bailey start digging for the missing money, they uncover the wrong kind of bones….

Finally finished with the renovations on her new house, bestselling children’s book author Pris and her trusty bloodhound, Bailey, are finding more opportunities to join the community, including attending the annual town festival. But their efforts are paw-sed when David Townsend, volatile grandson of the late wealthy resident Edward Townsend, comes to fetch his inheritance.

After the new arrival riles up several other locals with petty arguments, the once sleepy town goes barking mad. Before long, the wealthy bachelor disappears without a trace, and the police suspect foul play. Bailey’s tracking instincts helped them collar the last criminal in Crosbyville, so the cops turn to Pris and her sweet hound to track down David.

But on their search-and-rescue mission, Pris and Bailey sniff out fraud, theft, and a body. Before they know it, both are hackles-deep inside another homicide investigation. Can the unlikely duo chase down the killer, or will they be left chasing their own tails?

My Thoughts

Hounding a Killer by Kallie E. Benjamin is a cute cozy mystery.  My favorite character is Bailey the Bloodhound.  I found Pris to be a little off in this book.  Pris was too timid, she overreacted, her feelings got hurt easily, and she took things the wrong way (often).  It got old quickly (I wanted to recommend that she see a counselor).  I did not feel the chemistry between Pris and her boyfriend.  They felt like good friends instead of romantic partners.  The mystery was interesting with red herrings plus a twist or two.  There was a long reveal at the end.  I found the pacing to be a tad slow and there were repetitive details.  I enjoyed the excerpts from the Bailey the Bloodhound book that Pris was working on.  Hounding the Killer is the second A Bailey the Bloodhound Mystery and it can be read as a standalone for those who have not read Sniffing Out Murder.  Hounding the Killer is a chaotic cozy mystery with a transferred festival, a departed recluse, heir issues, a missing man, a body found by a bloodhound, and catching a killer.

Hounding a Killer is available from Amazon.  The first book in A Bailey the Bloodhound Mysteries is Sniffing Out Murder.  Kallie E. Benjamin is a pseudonym  for V.M. Burns. Thank you for joining me today.  I will return on Thursday, May 8 with The Marriage Pact by Kathleen Fuller.  I am off to get some work done outside.  I am trying to get all the outside work done before the heat and humidity descent in full force. I hope that you have a fulfilling day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Ruth's Amish Words of Faith by Tracy Fredrychowski

 Ruth's Amish Words of Faith

Book Summary

Can Ruth Yoder's deep devotion to God and her determination to use the power of her words for healing bring hope and comfort in this inspiring story about an unlikely friendship and a life-changing journey?This heartwarming tale follows Ruth Yoder, an Amish woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she is diagnosed with breast cancer. In the midst of her struggle, she meets Wilma Nettles, a young English school teacher facing the same daunting challenge. Though they come from different worlds, their shared trials forge a bond filled with laughter, love, and an unlikely friendship. Both women will walk a journey of their own. One will walk in faith, the other in fear.

Determined to embrace a summer of healing, Ruth and Wilma decide to take an adventurous car trip to Pinecraft, Florida. Their journey takes them from the quiet, picturesque Amish communities of Pennsylvania to the sunny, vibrant Amish vacation village in Sarasota. Along the way, they find joy in the simplest moments, share stories that bring tears and laughter, and lean on each other for strength and comfort.

">Through the laughter and the tears, Ruth's unwavering faith inspires Wilma, and Wilma's vivacious spirit brings light to Ruth's sheltered lifestyle. Their journey together becomes a testament to the healing power of friendship and faith, with Iona also finding clarity about her feelings for Seth Trenton amidst their adventures.

Can this faith-filled woman find the courage to share her heart with her new English friend and pursue healing even when the world tells her there’s no hope?

Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith is the inspirational seventh book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series of women's fiction novels. If you like spiritual explorations, real-life challenges of emotional bravery, and basking in God's light, then you'll adore Tracy Fredrychowski's exploration of hope.

My Thoughts

Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith by Tracy Fredrychowski is a touching Amish tale.  While it is the seventh book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County Series, it can be read as a standalone.  However, I do recommend reading the other books in this inspirational series.  I thought the story was well-written with developed characters.  I enjoyed getting to know Wilma Nettles and Ruth Yoder. Ruth is a very special woman.  The women had layers (best way to describe it).  We learned more about them as they got to know each other and as they journeyed to Florida.  I liked that it was a friendship between an Amish woman and an English woman.  Each woman had a distinct perspective on life and religion plus they had diverse cultural items they could share with each other.  Both Ruth and Wilma had been diagnosed with breast cancer.  Ruth had her faith as well as her husband and large family to support her.  Wilma had only her best friend, Janel, who resides in a different state, and her boyfriend.  Ruth’s profound faith was admirable.  She trusted God implicitly and knew that He would guide her.  

Wilma and Ruth’s road trip to Florida was enjoyable.  I liked the different stops they made along the way.  One of my favorite lines is, “Sometimes, when things have been hard, I just ask Gott to stay close. Even when I don’t understand Him.”  This story runs the gamut of emotions (have a tissue box nearby) and it resonated with me. I agree with Ruth and Wilma about the beauty of Siesta Key.  It is my favorite beach.  Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith is an inspiring story with a dreaded diagnosis, finding a friend, a road trip, merry music, a step back in time, a beautiful beach, and a hopeful future. 

Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith is available from Amazon (free with Kindle Unlimited).  You can find the other seven books in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series here.  The eighth book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series is Katie’s Amish Journey of Hope which will be out on February 3, 2026.  You can find Tracy Fredrychowski's other novels here.  Thank you for stopping by today.  Another Amish book out today is Leslie Gould's The Shop Down the Lane which I will be featuring next week on May 13. Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher is also out today.  I will feature it on May 28 as part of the Celebrate Lit Tour.  I will return tomorrow with Hounding a Killer by Kallie E. Benjamin. I hope that you have an inspiring day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.